Bubba Russell served with the U.S. Army in Vietnam. See Section 2
VCCT’s ‘Beanstalk! The Play!’ is July 2527, Aug. 1-2, cast features child actors
‘We are so incredibly proud of the hard work that all of our youth actors are putting in’
BY JEFF HELFRICH MANAGING EDITOR
ROCHELLE — The Vince Carney Community Theater will present a production of ‘Beanstalk! The Play!’ on July 25 & 26 and Aug. 1 & 2 at 7 p.m. and July 27 at 2 p.m. at the Lincoln Arts Center at 108 S. Main St. in Rochelle. During the second act, the cast will race the clock to present ‘40 Plays in 40 Minutes.’
The production is directed by Jeannette D. Mingus and assistant directed by Grace Mingus. Tickets are available online at vcctrochelle.org or at the door. The cost is $20 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under.
The Vince Carney Community Theater will present a production of ‘Beanstalk! The Play!’ on July 25 & 26 and Aug. 1 & 2 at 7 p.m. and July 27 at 2 p.m. at the Lincoln Arts Center at 108 S. Main St. in Rochelle.
‘Beanstalk! The Play!’ is a “fun family show that follows the adventures of Jack, a young boy with his head in the clouds and his nose in a book of fairytales. When the magic beans Jack
Sycamore-based Junk Removal Dudes works in local area
BY JEFF HELFRICH MANAGING EDITOR
trades for the family cow grows into a gigantic beanstalk, Jack finally gets the chance to have a fairytale adventure of his very own.”
See VCCT page 3
SYCAMORE — Junk Removal Dudes started part-time with a borrowed SUV and a small wooden trailer 12 years ago. The business that serves the area has now grown to as many as 400-500 customers a month, and utilizes four new dump trucks. Junk Removal Dudes is owned and operated by Sycamore native Alex Broches, a graduate of Sycamore High School, Kishwaukee College and Northern Illinois University.
See DUDES page 2
Spring Lake seeing high numbers amid hot summer
Yearly REC Center closure for maintenance underway, membership numbers up
BY JEFF HELFRICH MANAGING EDITOR
ROCHELLE — At its monthly meeting Monday, the Flagg-Rochelle Community Park District Board of Commissioners heard an update from Executive Director Jackee Ohlinger on Spring Lake Pool operations amid a hot summer.
Ohlinger said the park district has seen its highest attendance by June 15 in five years. This year’s attendance by June 15 was 6,671 patrons. The park district’s lowest number was in 2021 at 4,664.
“The park district proudly invests in Spring Lake,” Oh-
linger said. “It’s a vital part of our community. While operating an outdoor pool comes with its challenges such as strict compliance regulations, high-risk environments and significant labor and maintenance costs, it continues to be an asset and much-loved resource of our Rochelle residents. This summer we are thrilled to offer free weekend swims thanks to generous donations of Central Bank, Rochelle Community Hospital, the City of Rochelle, First State Bank and the Community Action Network. These contributions made it possible for families to enjoy afternoons at the pool
together at no cost. Spring Lake Pool was proud to host the Rochelle Township High School Education Foundation event as well as community day camp groups that came from around the area. Our splash pad offers additional free recreation to the community when the pool isn’t open and is an added amenity when it is open. Spring Lake continues to be a hub for programs like swim teams and so much more. I want to thank our dedicated staff, partners and patrons that help keep the magic of Spring Lake alive each summer. Your efforts make a big splash in our community.”
On Monday, the Flagg-Rochelle Community Park District Board of Commissioners heard an update from Executive Director Jackee Ohlinger on Spring Lake Pool operations amid a hot summer.
REC Center
Ohlinger provided an update during the meeting on The REC Center, which is currently closed for its yearly cleaning and maintenance.
See PARK page 5
(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)
Junk Removal Dudes is owned and operated by Sycamore native Alex Broches, a graduate of Sycamore High School, Kishwaukee College and Northern Illinois University.
(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)
(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)
LOCAL NEWS
From page 1
The business removes junk from garages, basements, crawl spaces or attics of homes and cleans out storage units, warehouses, restaurants or hoarding situations. It also offers commercial cleanouts. Customers can call or text pictures of their junk to 815-757-9696 and receive a quick quote or visit www.TheJunkRemovalDudes.com.
Junk Removal Dudes has done a lot of work in the Rochelle and Ogle County area along with the DeKalb/ Sycamore area and recently has branched out more into the suburbs. The business began when Broches was struggling to find steady work after college.
“I asked my grandfather initially about junk removal and was thinking about doing it part-time to make extra money,” Broches said. “My mom cleaned homes part-time and asked if I knew anyone to move junk for elderly clients. I borrowed my grandfather’s old SUV and attached a wooden trailer to it. It took a while for things to pick up. The truck would break down and we were leading and unloading the truck by hand for a lot of years. It started out as a little way to make extra money. I wasn’t planning on it getting big, but it blew up a few years ago.”
Broches said Junk Removal Dudes has seen many
unique items and situations over the years including finding love letters from the early 1900s, items that have been lost for 60+ years, weapons, and a large mannequin. Junk Removal Dudes posts its findings on its Instagram and Facebook pages.
The business has also done a celebrity home cleanout, has cleaned out abandoned homes and has helped customers with numerous hoarding situations.
“Employees find cool things and enjoy that part of the job,” Broches said. “In abandoned homes sometimes we find good stuff. We try to donate and recycle everything we can. If we find items or clothes in good shape, we donate them. If the local organizations don’t want it, we offer it to employees. We try our best to recycle as much as possible. If we find something that looks like it may be important or valuable, we make sure we check with the customers before we throw it away.”
Broches said there’s a lot of demand for the service Junk Removal Dudes provides and he believes 12 years of positive reviews and reputation have helped the business to get more work. Staffing has expanded over those 12 years, which has made Junk Removal Dudes able to take on pretty much any job.
“We’ve had the same core workers for about 10
The business removes junk from garages, basements, crawl spaces or attics of homes and cleans out storage units, warehouses, restaurants or hoarding situations. It also o ers commercial cleanouts. Customers can call or text pictures of their junk to 815-757-9696 and receive a quick quote or visit www.TheJunkRemovalDudes. com.
years now,” Broches said. “We’re not really intimidated by large projects now. We’ve done some pretty good-sized projects that would look impossible to a lot of people. About a month ago we worked at a hoarding situation and as soon as we opened the door, the whole entire house was filled with garbage. We put on suits and got shovels. We had 12 people on that job and got it done in a few days. We’re very motivated, trained and competent now to the point where we can tackle almost anything. Seeing the client happy when we’re all done makes it worthwhile for us. We’ve met so many great
clients and people over the years. That part for me is fun, too.”
Broches’ favorite part about the job is seeing relief on customers’ faces when junk is removed and their homes are cleaned up and they’re able to see the difference. When Junk Removal Dudes encounters hoarding situations, staff provides information on local services to help people who may be dealing with hoarding tendencies if they want it so situations like that don’t happen again.
“We try our best to help out and be professional,” Broches said. “I like to see that relief on customers’
faces when they can get out of tough situations. We come and give the estimate and get the job done and they see the difference. When you see people happy and crying over it, it’s a good feeling. We’re here to help at the end of the day.”
Broches grew up poor with little financial stability. Later on in life, he struggled to find consistent work after college. He often thinks back on those times and how he delivered pizzas with a college degree and worked other jobs to get by. He’s thankful he found a service the community needs and thanked his employees and the community for the sup-
port over the years to build Junk Removal Dudes.
“It’s been a lot of work,” Broches said. “It’s been 6070 hour weeks. I love what I do and I don’t mind working this much. If someone wants to try something that’s going to benefit people and sees a need, don’t be scared to take a risk and try it. I’ve had numerous dead-end jobs and tried to start other businesses. This was the fifth business I tried after the others failed. And it took off. People should always experiment and take risks and go for it. Step out of your comfort zone. Because life is short.”
Flagg Township Museum summer events and programs set
ROCHELLE – This summer, the Flagg Township Museum invites the community to make meaningful connections through a variety of engaging programs and events.
Be a Calendar Pin-Up!
Join us on Saturday, July 26 from 1 to 2 p.m. to learn how you can be featured in the Museum’s upcoming “We the People of Rochelle 2026” calendar. This is your chance to celebrate our community and be-
come part of a unique local project.
Cokes, Coffee & Conversations – Every Saturday in August. Starting Saturday, Aug. 2 at 10 a.m., drop by for casual conversations over a drink, a snack,
and a thought-provoking question. First up: “If you could go back in time, what person from history would you invite to dinner?”
On Aug. 9, we’ll explore: “If you could go anywhere in time, where would you go—and what would you do?” A full schedule of weekly topics is available on the Museum’s homepage
at www.flaggtownshipmuseumrochelle.org
Cut the Square – Thursday, Sept. 12 from 4 to 8 p.m. Let’s come together for one more evening of music, classic cars, and community fun. Whether you’re cruising the square, visiting the Museum, or admiring the Hub City Car Club’s collection, it’s a perfect way
ROCHELLE POLICE REPORT
ROCHELLE — On July 14, Taujah N. Rhodes, 29, of Rochelle was cited for operating an uninsured vehicle and expired registration. She signed a promise to comply and was given an Aug. 8. Rochelle court date.
On July 15, Jose G. Nonato Martinez, 33, of Rochelle was arrested for driving under the influence
times two and cited for illegal transportation of alcohol-driver. He signed a promise to comply and was given an Aug. 8. Rochelle court date.
On July 16, Nicholas L. Spencer, 27, of Rockford was arrested on an Ogle County warrant and transferred.
On July 16 , Alejandro V.
to wrap up the season and connect with neighbors.
The Flagg Township Historical Society and Museum’s mission is to stimulate interest in Flagg Township history through education, research, collection and preservation of information for the benefit of the public of today and in the future.
Garcia, 54, of DeKalb was cited for speeding 62 in a 40 miles per hour zone. He signed a promise to comply and was given an Aug. 8. Rochelle court date.
On July 16, Kelley R. Graham, 22, of Rochelle was arrested for driving under the influence and no valid driver’s license and cited for no insurance, illegal transportation of alcohol-driver, and illegal possession of cannabis. She signed a promise to comply and was given an Aug. 8. Rochelle court date.
On July 18, Natalia Garza, 30, of Rochelle was arrested for domestic battery and transferred. All individuals are innocent until proven guilty.
(PHOTO BY JEFF HELFRICH)
LOCAL NEWS
(PHOTOS BY JEFF HELFRICH)
VCCT: ‘Beanstalk! The Play!’ coming to local community theater
From page 1
The show is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals. com
“It’s a twist on the Jack and the Beanstalk story that everybody knows,” Jeannette Mingus said. “I won’t give away the twist. That part of the show is about 45 minutes long. We added a second act that’s called 40 Plays in 40 Minutes and totally unrelated to Jack and the Beanstalk. It involves racing through skits one after another. Our cast is age four all the way up to some adults. “
The cast of the show includes Jeani Camplain,
Terry Camplain, Xenya Conti, Beckett Freeman, Mariel Hildenbrand, Arabella Marruffo, Chase Marruffo, Charlotte Miller, Alex Pawlowski, Rosie Pawlowski, Kalyiah Rouse, Chloe Streit, Adlai Venuso, Ben Venuso, Damarion Venuso, JoJo Venuso, Kara Venuso, and Theia Venuso.
“It’s been over a decade since VCCT put an all-kids production on the stage,” Jeannette Mingus said. “We really wanted to reach out to our community and bring back that idea of children’s theater. I picked this one because of the simplicity of the set and parts and the fact that we could put together such a huge cast. We have 16-18
kids in this cast. We were able to hold auditions and not turn anyone away, and that was the goal.”
Mingus said the ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ story being commonly known is a benefit to the production and patrons and actors can relate to it. The cast members already had a frame of reference that allowed them to dig into their characters more. Kid actors will be playing parts they can have fun with such as a cow, a hen and a harp.
Jeannette Mingus is a teacher, so working with kids on the stage comes easy to her.
“The energy kids bring is completely different from adult theater,” Jeannette Mingus said. “You
can’t wear them out. They never get tired. They never want a night off. They are go go go every second that they’re here. The ideas they come up with are out of the box. As adults we can get into a rut and do things the same way every time. These kids want to try new things and we get to see if it works.”
The ‘40 Plays in 40 Minutes’ portion will include 40 unrelated skits, most of which end in a joke. The kids will be in control, and they’re given parts and told to do whatever feels right when they interact with each other on stage. The skits allow the child actors to learn more acting skills such as a fake punch and stage combat.
Jeannette Mingus said audience members can expect a show that’s a lot of fun, and that the kids acting have taken real ownership over the show.
“We’ve given them a lot of creative freedom to make it exactly what they want it to be on the stage,” Jeannette Mingus said. “With that comes some potential silliness and the risk of things not being quite as smooth as we might want them to be from time to time. We are so incredibly proud of the hard work that all of our youth actors are putting in and very grateful for our veteran adults taking the stage to help make the magic happen.”
Getting on the stage
helps kids to strengthen their reading skills and self-confidence, Mingus said. After telling the kids that everyone who auditioned would be in the show, the production crew saw a big boost in the kids’ social aspect. Many of the actors are homeschooled and are getting a chance to interact with a new group of kids during rehearsals.
“That’s been a big benefit for them as well,” Jeannette Mingus said.
“It’s a lot of work. But really it’s something we all look forward to, the chance to come and be silly and have fun with the kids and watch them have that joy in it. We hope people buy tickets and come out to see the show.”
State Treasurer Frerichs will return a record number of checks to Illinoisans
SPRINGFIELD —
This summer will bring $45 million in cash to a record-breaking 600,000 people who will receive money they didn’t even know they had from the state’s missing money program, and the only thing they must do is cash the check, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said today.
The checks are part of the latest round of the Enhanced Money Match program – which takes the “claim” out of unclaimed property. Treasurer Frerichs’ office helps get the check in the mail by leveraging technology to return money to individuals, through I-CASH, the state’s unclaimed property initiative.
Most of the matched claims in this Enhanced Money Match round equal $50 or less, though some people can have multiple claims and their checks will amount to much more.
“The first thing we tell people, is this – the money belongs to you, the check is real, and this is not a scam,” Treasurer Frerichs said. “The second thing
we tell them, is to cash the check! Who couldn’t use a little extra pocket money this summer?”
The volume of “claimless” checks is unprecedented. Frerichs’ office founded the Enhanced Money Match program in 2018 and has since returned more than $130 million to more than 870,000 people. This summer’s total of nearly 600,000 checks makes it the largest Money Match ever performed in the nation.
Frerichs’ office began mailing notification letters at the end of June. The checks soon follow and will hit mailboxes all summer long.
The Enhanced Money Match Program leverages data already collected by partnering state agencies and crossmatches it with the State Treasurer’s unclaimed property database
The Treasurer’s Office matches names and mailing addresses, confirms those, and then sends a letter to the unclaimed property owner that describes the amount and source of the money.
Enhanced Money Match
focuses only on straightforward claims that involve cash owed to a single person. It doesn’t cover other types of claims, such as those involving cash owned by multiple parties, shares of stocks and bonds, escrow accounts, and the contents of bank safe deposit boxes.
Enhanced Money Match is part of the office’s Unclaimed Property program, also known as I-CASH. It is
one of the state’s oldest consumer protection initiatives. In Illinois, the state treasurer is tasked with safeguarding unclaimed property, such as the contents of overlooked safe deposit boxes, unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts and unused rebate cards. Illinois holds more than $5 billion in unclaimed property. More than $2.3 billion has been returned since Frerichs
took office, the most in state history. The state treasurer is legally required to return missing money to its owners or heirs, no matter how long it takes. To see if you have missing money, check the online database at www.illinoistreasurer.gov/ICASH
The cast of the show includes Jeani Camplain, Terry Camplain, Xenya Conti, Beckett Freeman, Mariel Hildenbrand, Arabella Marru o, Chase Marru o, Charlotte Miller, Alex Pawlowski, Rosie Pawlowski, Kalyiah Rouse, Chloe Streit, Adlai Venuso, Ben Venuso, Damarion Venuso, JoJo Venuso, Kara Venuso, and Theia Venuso.
OBITUARIES/LOCAL NEWS
OGLE COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT
OREGON — On July 12 at 1:51 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop on North Marrill Road at the intersection with East Nordic Woods Drive. As a result, deputies arrested Donald E. Whaley, 49, of Ashton for driving while license revoked. Deputies additionally arrested a passenger, Misti D. List 43, of Leaf River on Ogle, Stephenson, and DeKalb County warrants. Whaley was additionally issued a citation for operating a motor vehicle with registration suspended. Whaley and List were both transported to the Ogle County Jail. Whaley was released on a notice to appear with a future court date. List was detained on all three warrants, pending bond and court appearances.
On July 12 at approximately 3:56 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 7,000 block of North Mt. Morris Road. After an investigation, Norma I. West, 38, of Freeport, was placed under arrest for driving while their license was suspended. West was released on a notice to appear and provided a future court date.
On July 12 at approximately 10:57 p.m. deputies
responded to the 100 block of Cuyahoga Drive in Lost Lake Dixon regarding a reported domestic battery. After an investigation, deputies placed Courtney L. Nielsen, 25, of Dixon, under arrest for domestic battery. Nielsen was transported to the Ogle County Jail, where she is being held pending an appearance before a judge.
On July 12 at approximately 10:57 p.m. deputies responded to the 100 block of Cuyahoga Drive in Lost Lake Dixon regarding a reported domestic battery. After an investigation, deputies placed Courtney L. Nielsen, 25, of Dixon, under arrest for domestic battery. Nielsen was transported to the Ogle County Jail, where she is being held pending an appearance before a judge.
On July 13 at approximately 6:06 p.m. deputies conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of West Pines Road and South Lowell Park Road in rural Polo. After an investigation, deputies placed Andrew F. Emberson Sr., 52, of Polo, under arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol. Emberson was additionally cited for DUI-alcohol
C ooking Small Town Atmosphere Daily Specials Breakfast Any Time
concentration in blood or breath 0.08 or more and illegal transportation or possession of alcoholic liquor by driver in motor vehicle. Emberson was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was issued a notice to appear with a return court date.
On July 14 at approximately 12:50 a.m. deputies responded to a crash with property damage located in the 300 block of Scott Avenue in Rochelle. After an investigation, deputies placed Aaron J. Vondergathen, 23, of Rochelle, under arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol. Vondergathen was additionally cited for failure to reduce speed, failure to report accident, improper lane usage, and leaving the scene of a property damage accident. Vondergathen was transported to the Ogle County Jail where he was issued a notice to appear with a return court date.
On July 14 at approximately 4 p.m. deputies responded to a single-vehicle accident in the 3,800 block of West Pond Road. Deputies spoke with the driver, Michael Merriman, 22, of Mt. Morris. Merriman advised that he was westbound on Pond Road in his Chevrolet truck when he lost control on the gravel roadway and flipped upside down in the north ditch. Merriman and his front passenger, Shawn Merriman, 48, of Mt. Morris, refused medical attention at the scene. Leaf River Fire/EMS assisted with the accident.
All individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty.
Nancy Kay Esgar
ROCHELLE — Nancy Kay Esgar passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Friday, July 18, 2025 and went to her heavenly home after a brief illness. She was born to Norman and Florence (Reeder) Willard on March 16, 1938 in Mendota, IL. She grew up on her family’s farm in Mendota, attending a rural one room schoolhouse for her first eight years of school and then graduating from Mendota High School in 1956. Nancy received a scholarship to Illinois State University at Normal earning a Bachelor’s degree in Home Economics. She met and fell in love with Ken Esgar while doing her student teaching at Mazon High School, and then she took a full time position teaching Home Economics at Morris High School from 1960-61. Nancy and Ken were married on December 28, 1960 and soon after started their family. She was a member of the Rochelle Methodist Church and of the Women’s Guild Circle. Nancy volunteered at the Rochelle Christian Food Pantry for 15 years and along with Ken received the 2000 Rochelle Community Leader Award for all the volunteer work they did. Nancy lived a full
and active life, raising four sons, attending all their sporting events and band concerts, continuing to substitute teach at many of the Rochelle Elementary Schools, finding time to hand sew beautiful quilts, maintaining a stunning floral garden and baking delicious desserts that everyone looked forward to. Her family especially enjoyed her rhubarb pie with flaky crust made from scratch. She also liked to play cards with her ladies card club, but most of all Nancy loved to travel with Ken and his sister and her husband traveling to almost all fifty states. They also traveled to Europe enjoying the sites of England, Ireland, Germany and Austria to name a few. She loved to visit her son Tim at his home in Colorado and going to the Amish areas, but the trips she enjoyed the most were the yearly fishing trips to Sioux Lookout, Canada which they did for many years. Nancy touched so many lives and all who knew her will miss her greatly. She is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband of almost 65 years, Kenneth Esgar of Rochelle, her sons Kevin (Erran) Esgar of South Elgin, Scott Esgar
of Loves Park, Timothy Esgar of Paonia, CO, and Brian (Marci) Esgar of Rochelle; her grandchildren Haley Esgar, Kasey (Zack) Kramer, Dylan Esgar, Erin Esgar, Ashlyn Esgar, Heaven Esgar, Hayden Esgar, and Hunter Esgar; her great grandchildren Elle, Brooklyn, and Arlo; her brother James Willard; and her cousins Gayle Kern and David Willard. Visitation will be on Thursday, July 24 at Unger-Horner Funeral Home from 5-7 pm. Memorial service to be held on Friday, July 25 at the Rochelle United Methodist Church at 10 am. Burial will follow at Lawnridge Cemetery in Rochelle. A luncheon will be provided at Rochelle United Methodist Church Hicks Hall at noon. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made out to the David Crawford Foundation or the Rochelle United Methodist Church. Guest book at www.UngerHorner.com
Virgil Swope
ROCHELLE — Virgil Swope, a devoted father, proud grandfather, and loyal friend, passed away peacefully at home on July 17, 2025, at the age of 89. Born in Compton, Illinois, on October 30, 1935, Virgil’s life was marked by hard work, independence, and countless good times spent on the golf course with friends. Virgil retired not once, but twice, a testament to both his strong work ethic and his love of staying active. But it was
his role as a father to his three children that gave him the greatest pride. He cherished every moment with them, always encouraging their independence while quietly standing behind them with steady support.
He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Wellington Swope and Helen Swope, his brother Clifford Swope, his sister Crystal McGinnis, Betty Stanley, the love of his life, whose memory he carried close to his heart every day, and his son Eric Swope, whose loss he had carried quietly, but deeply.
will remember his independent spirit, easy laugh, and the simple joy he treasured, whether it was a good round of golf, a classic western playing in the background, or sitting back with a cold Budweiser in hand. These everyday moments are where Virgil found his greatest happiness, shared with those he loved.
Rochelle, IL 61068. Periodical postage paid at Rochelle, IL 61068. Postmaster send address changes to the Rochelle News-Leader, P.O. Box 46, Rochelle, IL 61068. Subscription rates are $139.99 per year by mail in Ogle
He is survived by two siblings: Ronny Swope and Holly Moore; two beloved children: Darrel Swope (spouse Cindy Swope) and Carla Bittinger. Four amazing grandchildren: James Swope, Chandler Bittinger, Nadalyne Campbell, and Alicia McDaniel; and nine beautiful great grandchildren: Jazmyne Swope, Jaden Scott, Stella Bittinger, Riley Bittinger, Jake Simmons, Levi Simmons, Preston Campbell, Josh Campbell, and Shannon Campbell. His family and friends
A celebration of Virgil’s life will be held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Lawnridge Cemetery in Rochelle, Illinois. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend and share in honoring his memory. A life well-lived and wellloved, Virgil will be deeply missed but remembered warmly.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Unger Horner Funeral Home, 400 N 6th St., Rochelle. Guest book at www.UngerHorner.com
LOCAL NEWS
PARK: New playgrounds installed at VFW and Skare Parks in Rochelle
From page 1
The closure is planned for July 21-Aug. 3. The REC’s fitness center will only be closed from July 24-26.
Work during the closure will include carpet cleaning, caulk repairs, pavement work, pool repairs and cleaning, electrical filter installation, electric stop and emergency light replacement, drywall repairs, storage roof repairs, inspections, painting, window cleaning, computer and security upgrades, fitness equipment installations,
and more.
“We have a lot going on in a short period of time and I’m thankful to the staff that is involved in all of that,”
Ohlinger said. “It’s a lot to undertake and I’m very appreciative of everyone.”
Ohlinger said The REC Center is currently seeing its highest membership numbers in four categories, with higher numbers than the typically-busier winter months. The REC Center will celebrate its five-year anniversary of its opening this winter.
“We’re very busy and it’s a great year,” Ohlinger
said. “Look for a lot of fun things to come as we celebrate five years.”
Playgrounds
Ohlinger said new playgrounds were recently installed at VFW and Skare Parks that have seen “nice attendances” at their openings. Each playground has a play structure for 2-5-year-olds and one for 5-12-year-olds as well as swings. The park district recently purchased those new playgrounds through a 50 percent grant program.
Hillcrest and Sweeney Parks will also see new
playground equipment in the future. The four parks’ playgrounds were built in 1999 or 2001.
Projects
Ohlinger provided updates on various other projects during the meeting, including a new Lyle Kunde memorial shade structure at Lake Sule that will be constructed in coming months. Kunde is a former park district executive director.
“This is just a tribute to recognize Lyle and his lasting effect on the community and his deep commitment to
the parks,” Ohlinger said. “It’s a small but heartfelt way to honor a man who gave so much to our community.”
Pavement projects have also begun at the park district. Work has been completed at Atwood Park, Powers Park and Lake Sule.
Portions of the The REC Center parking lot will be done next, with work beginning Monday.
Fountains
The board unanimously approved a $20,453 expenditure for the purchase of four drinking fountain units
for public parks. Some of the fountains will be replacements for current fountains and some will be new offerings. The fountains will be installed over the next few months.
Budget
The board held a public hearing for and unanimously approved its fiscal year 2025-2026 cumulative budget and appropriation in final form during the meeting.
“We are confident our budget is in good standing for the next fiscal year,” Ohlinger said.
Regional Transportation Committee Meeting scheduled for July 25 at IVCIL
SPRING VALLEY —
The next Human Services Transportation Plan (HSTP) Regional Transportation Committee Meeting for Region 3 (Bureau, DeKalb, Grundy, Kendall, LaSalle, Lee, Ogle, and Putnam Counties) will be held on Friday July 25 - 10 a.m. at
OREGON — Approximately 595 4-H project exhibits and 960 project animals will be showcased by Ogle County’s 295 4-H club members in 12 clubs during the 2025 Ogle County Fair, Oregon, July 30-Aug. 3.
Illinois Valley Center for Independent Living (IVCIL) – 1 Les Buzz Way, Spring Valley, IL 61362. Human service organizations with an interest in public transportation are strongly encouraged to attend, as well as anyone interested in public transit. If you would
like further information, please contact via email: hstp@ncicg.org or call us at (815) 433-5830.
We will have reserved time slots available for public comment via Zoom for anyone not able to attend the meeting in person between 10:15-10:30 a.m. If you
Ogle County 4-H general projects to be showcased assigned, all of the blue award winners compete against one another for the chance to become class champions or overall division winners. A number of blue ribbon awarded non-animal exhibits are also selected each year to represent Ogle County 4-H at the Illinois State Fair.
4-H Fairs are held nationally to allow youth the opportunity to exhibit projects that have resulted from in-depth yearlong studies of areas that interest them.
As part of the exhibition, non-animal exhibitors meet one-on-one with project judges to receive feedback about their displays and gather ideas for future project expansion.
Animal judging tests 4-H’ers abilities to produce, maintain, and select healthy animals with excellent breeding and market potential. Animal showmanship classes provide 4-H’ers with the opportunities to develop and refine their animal presentation skills.
At the 4-H Fair, competition exists at two levels. 4-H’ers first compete against themselves for exhibit ratings. Every exhibit—animal or non-animal—is assigned a rating of blue, red, or white. Blue ratings are awarded to youth with entries that meet class guidelines and represent high quality work. White ratings are assigned when entries do not meet class guidelines or exhibits are of low quality. Red ribbons are assigned for exhibits falling somewhere in between.
Once ratings have been
Beyond the competition and learning, the Ogle County 4-H Fair is a celebration! It marks the end of a year of youth development, club and county activities and community service, new friendships, and family building.
would like to participate in public comment via Zoom during that time frame, please contact us at (815)
433-5830 to reserve your time slot. For more information about NCICG, HSTP, or if special accommodations are needed, please contact Connor Schwinn at (815) 433-5830.
Many thanks go to the hundreds of 4-H leaders, helpers, fair committee members, judges, auctioneers, and supporters who make this annual educational extravaganza possible.
4-H is the youth development program of University of Illinois Extension. For information, call the Ogle County Extension Office at (815)732-2191 or visit online at https://extension.illinois.edu/bdo. The 4-H year will begin again on Sept. 1. The fair is an excellent place to explore 4-H and decide if it might be right for your family. Youth, ages 5-18 by September 1, 2024, can join for the coming year. You can visit various clubs to find the right fit or create your own.
LOCAL VIEWS
More work to be done for increased trade
ILLINOIS Farm Bureau has long championed new and diverse market opportunities while fighting to eliminate trade barriers that hinder the agricultural economy of Illinois and the nation.
Illinois farmers rely on access to foreign markets to sell their products — from corn, soybeans, ethanol, beef, pork and more. With continued pressure on farm income, trade remains a top priority. In response to sweeping global tariffs — many of which have since
been paused or rolled back — and reciprocal actions abroad, we quickly intensified our efforts to boost global market access and stressed the importance of trade with all decision makers.
That is why Illinois Farm Bureau continues to push for signed, long-term trade deals. We and county Farm Bureau leaders have held regular conversations with President Donald Trump’s administration, including USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins, as well as
with Illinois’ congressional delegation. I have personally made multiple trips to Washington, D.C., this spring and summer to underscore how critical it is for our farmers to maintain and expand trade relationships and eliminate existing trade barriers through support of bilateral, regional and multi-lateral free trade agreements.
Brian Duncan
While we welcomed
the temporary progress on U.S.-China negotiations and discussions with the U.K., much more work is needed to ensure longterm, fair access for American farmers. This is especially true in areas such as non-science-based phytosanitary requirements that serve as non-tariff trade barriers.
From my farm and in my travels across Illinois,
I see how essential trade is — our roads, railways and waterways move not just our products but our entire economy forward. We cannot afford to let trade policy stagnate.
Our world is increasingly competitive and complex. We need trade to solidify agriculture’s strategic position in it. The path ahead requires commitment and consistency.
Our farmers deserve trade policies that reflect the immense value they bring to the nation and the world. It’s time for leaders to resolve lingering disputes and eliminate contentious trade barriers. We’re ready to compete — just give us a fair shot.
Brian Duncan farms in Ogle County and serves as Illinois Farm Bureau president. This story was distributed through a cooperative project between Illinois Farm Bureau and the Illinois Press Association. For more food and farming news, visit FarmWeekNow.com.
Roberts: U.S. legal profession in turmoil
IN August 2010, Harvard Law School professor, David Wilkins made a presentation to the American Bar Association House of Delegates with the theme “Legal Profession in Turmoil.” The issue was that lawyers felt less in control of their situation, experienced increased competition (on-line legal documents) and feedback from clients that they are looking for “how much value was delivered.” In recent years, another contributor to the turmoil in the legal profession is the lack of decorum. According to the American Heritage Dictionary, decorum is defined as “appropriateness of behavior or conduct,”
IL Sen. Li Arellano Jr. Stratton Office Bldg Springfield, IL 62706 (217) 782-1942
IL Rep. Bradley Fritts Stratton Office Bldg Springfield, IL 62706 (217) 782-0535
Have a letter you want to submit to us? Send it to (news@rochellenews-leader.com
in other words, good behavior (civility).
Leftists seem to have a lack of decorum. For example, take the comments from the most junior member of the Supreme Court, a leftist. In a scathing document, Supreme Court Justice Jackson accused other members of the Supreme Court of catering to the current president and taking a “wrecking ball” to the federal government. (Newsweek) When writing dissents on the Supreme Court’s opinions, she criticizes other members of the court, which is unprecedented, a lack of decorum. In the past, Supreme Court members may have disagreed, but they did not beat each other
up like the junior member does repeatedly.
Another example of the legal profession’s lack of decorum follows. A lower court judge, U.S. District Judge Brian E. Murphy of the District of Massachusetts, had issued an injunction against the president’s executive order that illegal immigrants were barred from contesting their removals to third countries. The Supreme Court temporarily blocked the injunction by Judge Brian E. Murphy. Despite this, Murphy issued an order after the Supreme Court’s decision, asserting that his injunction
remained in effect. Judge Murphy is defying the Supreme Court, a significant example of the lack of decorum. The Supreme Court responded that Judge Murphy’s power to enforce his injunction was null and void. This should have been a unanimous decision, but two judges dissented: Sotomayor and Jackson, both self-identified as leftists. The Supreme Court’s response was a directive that Murphy adhere to its rulings. In another matter, the Utah Court of Appeals sanctioned a lawyer for using Chat GPT to write a brief in a court case.
According to court documentation, the lawyer served an “interlocutory appeal” which referenced inaccuracies and several false cases. The lawyer attempted to blame the law clerk who wrote up the brief, but the court ruled that the lawyer is responsible for the overall accuracy of the document submitted. (It should be noted that the use of artificial intelligence (AI) can result in inaccuracies or made-up information when generating a document.) The lawyer was ordered to make amends by refunding the client’s attorney fees and donating $1,000 to the organization ‘And Justice for All.’ In this case, the lawyer, who had
submitted fraudulent information to the court, fell way short of the gatekeeping responsibilities required of a member of the Utah State Bar Association. This sanction, in my opinion, is a slap on the wrist and is evidence of how the legal profession seems to tolerate a lack of decorum among its members. The lawyer should have been disbarred. There are many other examples where the legal profession is in turmoil because of a lack of decorum. Members behaving badly erode respect for the legal profession.
Decorum is actually a form of morality which, according to today’s standards, is a value set subject to change without notice.
Rochelle City Council
*John Bearrows jbearrows@rochelleil.us
Kathryn Shaw-Dickey kshaw-dickey@rochelleil.us
Bil Hayes bhayes@rochelleil.us
Rosaelia Arteaga rarteaga@rochelleil.us
Dan McDermott dmcdermott@rochelleil.us
Tom McDermott tmcdermott@rochelleil.us
Benjamin Valdivieso bvaldivieso@rochelleil.us
Rochelle Elementary School Board
*Steve Builta sbuilta@d231.rochelle.net
Ashley Jackson ajackson@d231.rochelle.net
Stephanie White swhite@d231.rochelle.net
Javier Zepeda jzepeda@d231.rochelle.net
Jennifer Thompson jthompson@d231.rochelle.net
Evan Tracy etracy@d231.rochelle.net
Stacey Dunphy sdunphy@d231.rochelle.net
Rochelle Township High School Board
*Jeff Tilton jeff.tilton@rthsd212.org
Bobby Chadwick bobby.chadwick@rthsd212.org
Brent Ohlinger brent.ohlinger@rthsd212.org
Laurie Pillen laurie.pillen@rthsd212.org
Joel Thompson joel.thompson@rthsd212.org
Trisha Vaughn trisha.vaughn@rthsd212.org
Janet Kacvinsky janet.kacvinsky@rthsd212.org
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY
The Rochelle News-Leader encourages responsible letters to the editor on subjects of interest to our readers. Editing may be necessary for space, clarity or to avoid obscenity or libel, but ideas will not be altered. All letters must bear the handwritten signature of the writer and include address and phone number or e-mail address for verification purposes. Neither the street address nor phone number will be printed. Letters should be typed
or legibly handwritten, and no anonymous letters will be published. Any letters from boards or organizations must include at least one name of an individual. Any criticism of public officials should be limited to issues related strictly to their position or actions made in office, as personal attacks will not be published. Letters involving private disputes between the writer and a business will not be published. Political endorsements will be published,
Hillcrest Village Board
*Richard Rhoads rrhoads@hillcrestil.us
Pam Pittman ppittman@hillcrestil.us
Dan Potter dpotter@hillcrestil.us
Tim Ball tball@hillcrestil.us
Eileen Braski ebraski@hillcrestil.us
Patricia Garcia pgarcia@hillcrestil.us
Flagg Township
Sue Messer supervisor@flaggtownship.org
Joanna Patrick clerk@flaggtownship.org
Rachel Berry assessor@flaggtownship.org
Scott Seebach commissioner@flaggtownship.org
Board of Trustees
Lance Noggle noggle62@gmail.com
Eric Gruben egruben@comcast.net
Susan Hager susanhager303@comcast.net
Jim Kenney jimk@rocketsupply.com
Flagg-Rochelle Library
*Teresa Haggestad haggestads@comcast.net
Lanning Nicoloff nicoloff118@comcast.net
Sheri Klindera alwayslefty2@gmail.com
Susan Sevedge nit1prl22@yahoo.com
Darci Waltrip doobs12@comcast.net
Jaqueline Dickow dickow@comcast.net
Faten Abdallah abdallahawad@gmail.com
however letters from candidates endorsing themselves will not be printed. Letters may be dropped at the News-Leader office (211 IL Route 38 East), mailed to the News-Leader (P.O. Box 46, Rochelle, IL 61068) or e-mailed (news@rochellenewsleader.com.) The News-Leader reserves the right to edit or reject any letter to the editor for any reason, and letters chosen for publication do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper.
Chuck Roberts
Gonzalez family wins Chamber Lawn of the week
ROCHELLE —
The Rochelle Chamber of Commerce recently presented its Lawn of the Week award for the week of July 11 to Pat and Lupe Gonzalez. They received a sign and a $25 Rochelle ACE Hardware gift card, presented by Rochelle Ace Hardware Manager Jesse Lopez.
The chamber has partnered with Rochelle Ace Hardware to award gift cards to the winners.
The 2025 Lawn of the Week program has begun
for the summer and will run through September. Nominate a neighbor/ yard each week by submitting a name and address by emailing rochellechamber@gmail.com
“We are proud to recognize our residents that display community pride in Rochelle,” Chamber
Executive Director Tricia Herrera said. “We love that this program gives us the chance to showcase the hard work and dedication they put in to making our city look great.”
July 23
Elmer Lopez
July 24
Paige Komadina
Juliana Kann
Jackson Kann
BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES
July 26
Jim Friestad
July 27
Brian & Kelly Smith (anniversary)
Pastor Angelo & Debbie Bonacquisti (anniversary)
Coffee Break COMMUNITY
July 28
Marisa McGuire
July 30
Spencer Kulwicki
July 14 - Breynn Baiocco, Rochelle, $25
July 15 - From the Heart, $25
July 16 - Jessica Morris, Rochelle, $25
July 17 - Diana May, Byron, $25
July 18 - Bianca Hueramo, Rochelle, $25
July 19 - LeeAnn Henry, Rochelle, $25
July 20 - Noah Norris, Rochelle, $50
July 21 - Adam Lanning, Rochelle, $25
July 22 - Shining Star - Dixon, $25
July 23 - Donald C. Burke, Rochelle, $25
The Rochelle Chamber of Commerce recently presented its Lawn of the Week award for the week of July 11 to Pat and Lupe Gonzalez.
(COURTESY PHOTO)
Rochelle Little League Become a Hubs
WEDNESDAY, JULY 23, 2025
10U BASEBALL ALL-STARS EARN DISTRICT TITLE
Rochelle wins four straight games to take District 19 championship in Sterling
BY RUSSELL HODGES SPORTS EDITOR
STERLING — Ro -
chelle Little League’s 10U Baseball All-Stars defeated Freeport at Gartner Park in Sterling on Friday to clinch the Illinois Little League District 19 Championship and advance to the State Championship tournament in LaGrange Park next weekend. Rochelle went 4-1 over five tournament games.
The team includes Cooper Harris, Wells Millard, Jacob Chadwick, Elliot Huff, Xander Gonzales, Bryce Adolph, Brekkon VanKirk, Spencer Kulwicki, Grey Engelbarts, Conrad Harper, Tyton Dahman, Connor Isley and Paul Martinez Jr. The team is coached by Johnny Gonzales, Jimmy Huff and Tim Isley.
Game 1
The 10U All-Stars went eight innings against Free-
Rochelle 561 Sluggers
port on Monday evening, scoring two runs in extras but falling just short in a 6-5 defeat. Brekkon VanKirk went 2 for 3 with one RBI to lead the Rochelle offense, which finished with six hits. Jacob Chadwick and Elliot Huff shined on the pitcher’s mound, combining for 16 strikeouts over seven and one-third innings. Chadwick struck out nine over three and one-third hitless frames and Huff struck out seven over four frames.
Cooper Harris slapped a lead-off single and scored on a passed ball to give Rochelle a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning. The 10U All-Stars kept Freeport off the board until the bottom of the third inning, where a lead-off walk led to a run on a passed ball to tie the game. Harris put the 10U All-Stars ahead in the top of the fourth inning, scoring on a passed ball after a walk.
See 10U page 2
The team includes Cooper Harris, Wells Millard, Jacob Chadwick, Elliot Huff, Xander Gonzales, Bryce Adolph, Brekkon VanKirk, Spencer Kulwicki, Grey Engelbarts, Conrad Harper, Tyton Dahman, Connor Isley and Paul Martinez Jr. The team is coached by Johnny Gonzales, Jimmy Huff and Tim Isley.
12U team takes second in KCBL Postseason Tournament Rochelle
BY RUSSELL HODGES SPORTS EDITOR
boys cap off successful 2025 season with Kane County Baseball League
ST. CHARLES — The Rochelle 561 Sluggers 12U baseball team finished second in the Kane County Baseball League’s postseason tournament on Monday evening. Rochelle went 10-4 over 14 regular season games and 2-1 over three games in the postseason tournament.
Players who competed in the tournament include Brecken Bruns, Dominic Escatel, Bentley Etes, Brayson Bouland, Bennett Law, Gavin Smith, Cody Cox, Garrett Miller, Eli Thompson, Roberto Bugarin and Landon Johnson. The team is coached by John Cox, Scott Etes and Mike Thompson.
Game 1
Rochelle scored a 12-0 shutout victory against the
Huntley 47’s 12U to reach the postseason tournament semifinals. Brayson Bouland went 1 for 2 with one single and three RBIs, while Brecken Bruns went 1 for 2 with one single and two RBIs in the win on July 8. Bennett Law and Eli Thompson each pitched two innings and combined for nine strikeouts on the mound.
Bennett Law and Brecken Bruns scored runs to give Rochelle a 2-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Dominic Escatel ripped a two-run double to left field and Brayson Bouland lined a two-run single to spark a five-run effort in the bottom of the second inning. Rochelle surged ahead 9-0 after Garrett Miller and Gavin Smith scored on passed balls in the third inning.
Landon Johnson scored on a passed ball and Brecken Bruns roped a two-run sin-
gle to center in the bottom of the fourth inning to seal Rochelle’s win.
Game 2
Rochelle clinched a berth in the tournament finals with a 6-5 win against the Woodstock Heat 12U. Bennett Law, Bentley Etes and Garrett Miller each recorded two hits to lead the offense, while Brayson Bouland struck out five batters over three innings on the pitcher’s mound.
Trailing 1-0, Rochelle rallied for two runs in the top of the third inning, tying the score on an RBI double from Dominic Escatel and taking the lead on an RBI single from Bennett Law. The Heat retook the lead shortly after, however, scoring two runs in the bottom of the third inning and one run in the bottom of the fourth inning.
See 12U page 3
(COURTESY PHOTO)
(PHOTO BY ROBIN RETHWILL)
Players who competed in the tournament include Brecken Bruns, Dominic Escatel, Bentley Etes, Brayson Bouland, Bennett Law, Gavin Smith, Cody Cox, Garrett Miller, Eli Thompson, Roberto Bugarin and Landon Johnson. The team is coached by John Cox, Scott Etes and Mike Thompson.
SPORTS
10U: Rochelle All-Stars advance to state tournament in LaGrange Park
From page 1
Two walks and a single sparked a two-run rally from the Freeport side in the bottom of the fourth inning. Trailing 3-2, Rochelle evened the score after Xander Gonzales smacked a one-out single and touched home on a passed ball three batters later. The game remained tied at 3-3 after six innings and both teams scored one run in the seventh inning, where Brekkon VanKirk rolled an RBI double to the second-base side to drive home Elliot Huff, who started the frame on second.
VanKirk started the top of the eighth on second and scored on a passed ball to give the 10U All-Stars a 5-4 lead entering the bottom of the eighth, where two singles, including a two-out RBI single to right field, resulted in two runs and the Freeport victory.
Game 2
Rochelle bounced back from a tough loss on Monday with a 12-1 victory against Sterling on Tuesday. Bryce Adolph and Wells Millard combined to throw four innings while striking out four batters and holding Sterling to four hits. Xander Gonzales went 2 for 3 with
two RBIs, while Millard added two RBIs and Jacob Chadwick went 2 for 2 with three runs scored in the win.
Facing a 1-0 deficit in the bottom of the first inning, Rochelle rallied for five runs on six hits including back-to-back doubles from Cooper Harris and Wells Millard to start the frame.
Jacob Chadwick put the 10U All-Stars ahead with an RBI single and Bryce Adolph scored on a passed ball after reaching on a one-out single to cap off the five-run effort. Millard and Chadwick drew walks and scored on passed balls to give Rochelle a 7-1 lead in the bottom of the third inning.
Rochelle clinched its win with a five-run outburst in the bottom of the fourth inning. Xander Gonzales provided the highlight of the frame, blasting a two-run double into center field to drive home Wells Millard and Jacob Chadwick. Elliot Huff scored the 12th and final run of the game.
Game 3
Cooper Harris went 3 for 3 with two extra-base hits and three RBIs, while Tyton Dahman went 2 for 3 with one double and three RBIs in Rochelle’s 19-8 win over Rock Falls on Wednesday.
Wells Millard and Bryce Adolph each collected two RBIs for the 10U offense. Harris started on the pitcher’s mound, striking out five over two and two-thirds innings.
Facing a 1-0 deficit entering the bottom of the first inning, Rochelle broke the game wide open, compiling 11 runs on nine hits including a go-ahead RBI double from Xander Gonzales. Bryce Adolph, Brekkon VanKirk and Spencer Kulwicki followed with three straight RBI singles to give Rochelle a 6-1 lead. Tyton Dahman shot an RBI single to second base and Cooper Harris, who belted a two-run triple to left field to keep the offense rolling, scored the 11th run of the frame.
Tyton Dahman blasted a two-run double to ignite an eight-run surge from the Rochelle offense in the bottom of the second inning. Cooper Harris and Wells Millard each recorded run-scoring doubles, while Connor Isley added an RBI single to push the 10U All-Stars ahead 19-1. Rock Falls rallied for seven runs in the top of the third inning, capitalizing on seven walks and two hits.
Connor Isley entered in relief and recorded three outs on the mound during
the top of the fourth inning to seal the Rochelle win.
Game 4
Wells Millard threw all four innings and struck out eight batters for the 10U All-Stars, who rolled for a 16-4 win over Freeport on Thursday evening. Millard also shined at the plate, going 4 for 4 with three runs and two RBIs. Cooper Harris went 2 for 2 with two runs ,while Elliot Huff, Bryce Adolph and Brekkon VanKirk each finished with two hits and two RBIs,
The 10UAll-Stars started strong, scoring five runs on six hits in the top of the first inning. Elliot Huff ignited the offense, blasting a tworun double to left field before Bryce Adolph reached on an RBI single to third base that gave the 10U All-Stars a 3-0 lead. Adolph and Xander Gonzales each scored on passed balls to cap off the five-run frame for the Rochelle offense in the first.
Despite Freeport answering with four runs in the bottom of the first inning, Rochelle continued to add to its total, tacking on two runs in the top of the second inning, where Cooper Harris scored on a passed ball and Bryce Adolph smacked an RBI single to second base
that brought home Wells Millard. Tyton Dahman slapped a one-out single and touched home on an RBI single from Millard to give Rochelle an 8-4 advantage over Freeport in the top of the third inning.
The 10UAll-Stars put the game out of reach in the top of the fourth inning, erupting for eight runs on five hits including two triples and two doubles. Xander Gonzales sparked the offense, shooting an RBI single to second base before Brekkon VanKirk rolled a two-run double to center two batters later. Wells Millard ripped an RBI triple to right field and Connor Isley fired an RBI double into center field to close out the eight-run effort from the Rochelle offense in the fourth.
Game 5
Connor Isley and Bryce Adolph combined to pitch all six innings as the 10UAllStars took down Freeport 10-4 on Friday to seal their district championship. Isley struck out six batters over three and one-third innings before Adolph recorded two strikeouts over the final two and two-thirds innings. Cooper Harris went 2 for 3 with a home run and three RBIs, while Tyton Dahman
went 2 for 3 with two RBIs to lead the Rochelle offense, which posted 10 hits in the win over Freeport.
Facing a 1-0 deficit in the bottom of the first inning, Rochelle rallied for three runs to take the lead from Freeport. Cooper Harris and Wells Millard led off the frame with two singles before both players scored on passed balls to give the 10U All-Stars a 2-1 lead. Connor Isley scored the third run of the frame, touching home after drawing a no-out walk earlier in the frame.
An RBI double brought Freeport within one run in the top of the second. After a scoreless third, Freeport regained the lead in the top of the fourth, tallying two runs on three singles and three walks. Rochelle responded in the bottom of the fourth inning, tying the game on Tyton Dahman’s RBI single before Cooper Harris launched a three-run, inside-the-park home run to center field.
Leading 7-4, Rochelle extended the gap with three runs in the bottom of the fifth inning, where Brekkon VanKirk ripped an RBI double to score Xander Gonzales and Tyton Dahman shot an RBI single into center to bring home Bryce Adolph.
RTHS Golf
Hubs back on
the tees as fall season approaches
High-schoolers practicing at Fairways, Skare Park to gear up for 2025 campaign
BY RUSSELL HODGES SPORTS EDITOR
ROCHELLE — With the high school season roughly one month away, members of the Rochelle Hub golf team returned to Fairways Golf Course this week to shake off the rust and gear up for the upcoming fall season. Head coach Glen Mehrings is working with returning and incoming high-schoolers over the next two weeks as the Hubs look to build on a successful 2024 season.
“I’ve been meeting players at the driving range after summer school and we have a lot of kids who want to play golf,” Mehrings said.
“We have five, six or seven guys who want to play golf and are really good at it. They’re getting better and we’re going to have a lot of leadership this year with one senior and a lot of juniors. Hopefully our freshmen and sophomores will follow.”
The two-week high
school summer session runs from July 14-24 and players practice from 9 a.m. to noon. On Tuesday, Mehrings worked with incoming freshman Axel Alsop and returning sophomore Austin Hartnett on approach shots, chipping and putting. Two returning juniors, Connor Lewis and Alex Dyer, were also present on Tuesday, playing the front nine at Fairways. Mehrings said the primary goal over the next two weeks is to bring players back on the course.
“We need our kids to get out and play,” Mehrings said. “We want them to get as much rust off of their swing as possible because some of our kids have jobs, some play baseball and some were involved in basketball camp. Our top players are playing 18 holes everyday and our top guys are setting good examples. We have young guys who want to learn the game, which is great.”
Rochelle has several players eligible to return for
the 2025 season, which could shape out as the program’s most successful season in recent history. Among the players set to return are senior Ian Metzger, a former Interstate 8 champion and three-time sectional qualifier. The Hubs will also welcome back several juniors including two-time sectional qualifier Alex Dyer, who won the 2025 Ogle County Junior Open and has a win on the Rockford Junior Series this summer.
Juniors such as Johnny Chadwick, Connor Lewis and Owen Carmichael have also competed in several local tournaments this summer, with Chadwick and Lewis recently placing first and third in the Rockford Junior Series event at the Rockford Country Club. Rochelle went 11-3 in 2024, taking second in the Interstate 8 during the regular season and recording five top-5 tournament finishes. Mehrings said the summer allows for players to recap-
ture their swing rhythm.
“It’s a great time for the kids to get comfortable and find those checkpoints in
their swing, whether it’s balance, alignment or establishing preshot routines,” Mehrings said. “We want our
August.”
12U: Rochelle 561 Sluggers place second in KCBL tournament
From page 1
Down 4-2, Rochelle tied the game when Roberto Bugarin smacked an RBI single to center and Garrett Miller scored on a wild pitch in the fifth inning.
The seesaw battle continued into the bottom of
Game 3
Rochelle finished in second place for the tournament after falling 13-5 against the Dixon Rebels 12U in the final round on
the fifth inning, where the Heat took a 5-4 lead on an RBI double to left field. Cody Cox evened the score with an RBI groundout and Bentley Etes gave the 561 Sluggers a one-run lead with an RBI single in the top of the sixth inning. Two strikeouts and a groundout in the bottom of the sixth inning sealed the Rochelle victory.
Monday. Eli Thompson went 2 for 2 with one double and three RBIs, while Cody Cox went 2 for 3 with one double and Dominic Escatel went 1 for 4 with one RBI. Brayson Bouland and Cody Cox combined to throw six innings and strike out five batters for the 561
Sluggers, who trailed 3-0 after one-and-a-half frames and scored their first run on an RBI double from Eli Thompson in the bottom of the second inning. Dixon put the game out of reach during the third and fourth innings, where the Rebels compiled 10 runs to take a 13-2 lead.
Rochelle’s final three runs came in the bottom of the fourth inning, where Eli Thompson shot an RBI single to center that brought home Bennett Law and Gavin Smith, who reached base on walks earlier in the frame.
kids to be ready for when they step on their first tee box during our first match in
Freshman Axel Alsop hits approach shots on the 17th hole at Fairways Golf Course during the Rochelle Hub golf team’s summer workout this past week.
(PHOTO BY RUSSELL HODGES)
Longtime Rochelle-area resident Russell served in Vietnam War
Many people in Rochelle remember Bubba Russell as their mailman (he worked a route for more than 30 years) but many people don’t realize what his role was with the 1st Air Cavalry, 2nd of 7th (second platoon, 7th infantry) in the Vietnam War.
And before going any further, yes, Bubba is his real name. To be accurate, his full name is Bubba Lafayette Holder Russell, born in 1945 in Wynne, Arkansas to Holder and Jennie Faye Russell. His family, which included himself, two brothers and two sisters, moved to Illinois when he was very young. They first lived in a farmhouse two miles south of Ashton – where Russell graduated from high school – but the family lived in Rochelle for most of his life.
In 1965, Russell was drafted and sent to Fort Polk in Louisiana for 16 weeks of training. From there he flew to Pleiku Air Base in Vietnam, but was there for only a short time before he was deployed into the jungle. He spent two years there, with the exception of a few visits to hospitals for multiple injuries.
One injury was the almost complete amputation of his left arm from a piece of shrapnel, which eventually required him to be flown to Japan for surgery. He was shot five times as well. To this day he carries a large amount of metal in his head, back and other parts of his body, both shrapnel and bullets.
When asked what it was he did in the jungle his response was simple – his squad, which consisted of seven to 13 men, looked for people to kill. He was their leader, but the unfortunate truth was that his squad members changed frequently. The nature of what they were trained to do was incredibly dangerous and required extreme concentration, the ability
before he was deployed into the jungle.
to move and to think quickly and to have a heightened ability to work with others as a team. Because of these stringent demands, young men were killed or seriously wounded at a rapid rate.
the years and got to see him a few times.
While he and his men spent their time setting up ways to trap the enemy, Russell received honors from the Army for his diligence in never allowing his squad to be ambushed. “I could spot an ambush from a mile away,” he recalled. “We would usually just go around behind them, then get them.”
Russell said they set up ambushes every night for a year. When they attempted to rest, they slept directly on the ground next to each other in a tight circle, feet in. That way, if there was any situation that arose where everyone had to be alerted, one foot could kick another foot, and so on. Without the ability to have a fire, they lived on canned food. Always at their side were their weapons, which for Russell meant his M16 and a .45 pistol. He always preferred his M16, as it meant he could keep his distance, but needed the .45 for when he was down in the tunnels. You had to be ready at all times and quick to move when an alert was given, he said, and sometimes the only sign given was the whir of the rotor blades from the chopper they slept only feet from.
“By the end of that year there was myself and just one other guy left from the original squad,” Russell said. That other man, whose name was Shorty, lived in Nebraska until he passed away about three years ago. Russell kept in contact with him throughout
Russell and his men were exposed to Agent Orange almost every day they were in the jungle, as once it is sprayed in a spot the residue never really goes away. One time, though, because of a miscommunication Russell and his men were sprayed and saturated from a helicopter hovering only about 100 feet above them. They were instructed to take all of their clothes off except their boots, and burn them. They did, but it was two days before another chopper came and dropped off more clothes. Due to that extreme chemical exposure, Russell suffers from several medical issues to this day.
When his tour ended, Russell left Vietnam as a Sergeant E5. His honors included three Purple Hearts, the Air Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the RVN Wound Medal and the Bronze Star.
He received the Bronze Star for an incident that occurred during an air assault at an insecure landing zone near Song Mao. The news article stated, “While moving through heavy brush, the platoon was taken under weapons fire and Russell’s squad was temporarily pinned down by fire from five Vietcong soldiers … Russell exposed himself to the heavy fire as he directed a burst of return fire that overwhelmed the enemy. He then led his men in an assault on the fleeing enemy, killing one, then aggressively assaulting another position where three more enemy soldiers were killed and one was captured.” Russell has lived in the Rochelle area since his return from the war and currently resides in Davis Junction. He is married to Bonnie (Potts) and has three children with her and
one from a previous marriage. He has 12 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Other than working at the Rochelle Post Office for so many years he has been a coach for several local children’s sports organizations and has been a basketball referee as well. This year was his 60th year playing softball, in this area and beyond. He traveled with senior softball leagues on teams that included the Chicago Hitmen, and in 2014 his team was crowned the Senior Players Association Softball World Champions. He had a .739 batting average that year. Honoring Our American Hero is a series that will print twice a month in the News-Leader. If you know an American Hero you would like to have featured, contact Jeff Helfrich at jeff.helfrich@rochellenews-leader.com or call 815-5612151.
In 1965, Bubba Russell was drafted and sent to Fort Polk in Louisiana for 16 weeks of training. From there he ew to Pleiku Air Base in Vietnam, but was there for only a short time
(COURTESY PHOTOS)
Bubba Russell has lived in the Rochelle area since his return from the war and currently resides in Davis Junction. He is married to Bonnie (Potts) and has three children with her and one from a previous marriage.
(COURTESY PHOTOS)
The Calvin Jerry Messer Memorial Golf Outing was recently held July 13 at Silver Ridge in Oregon. In a Facebook post, its organizers called the day a success and thanked helpers, golfers, hole sponsors, those that donated auction items, monetary donors and the sta at Silver Ridge. The 2025 and 2024 Calvin Messer Scholarship recipients did an honorary tee o at the event, including Aaron Lester, Nolan Rue , Taylor Jahn, Ayden Willstead, Audree Dorn, Jersey Sprague, Mallory Co man, and Cameryn Winterland. (Courtesy photos)
Pfeiffer
ASHTON — The Fifth Annual Pfeiffer Farms Outdoor Market will take place Saturday, Aug. 9 at 2511
Farms Outdoor Market scheduled for Aug. 9
Reynolds Road in Ashton. There will be 60 vendors to shop. Available will be Pfeiffer’s burgers and
pulled pork, Little O’s Frozen Treats, Ruby’s Coffee Truck, Ms. Mint Popsicles, Southwest Taco Truck and
Main Squeeze Lemonade. New this year will be live music by Burn ‘n Bush. Check out the Facebook
event page for more updates and details: “2025 Pfeiffer Farms Outdoor Market.”
For more information, contact Cindy Knight: cindysue82@yahoo.com or 815-751-0979.
Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department recycling event is Aug. 9
OREGON — The Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department (OCSWMD) will be hosting a recycling event for used motor oil, anti-freeze, used oil filters, liquid latex paint, aerosol spray cans, single use propane cylinders, alkaline batteries, clothing and child car seats on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 8 a.m. to noon at the County Annex Building located at 909 Pines Road in Oregon. No permits are required for this recycling event.
Liquid latex paint will be accepted for recycling. There is a fee per container of $1/quart, $2/ gallon, and $10/pail for the fi rst 10 containers. Paint should be brought to the event in its’ original container and not be bulked together so it can be properly recycled. The OCSWMD will subsidize a portion of the cost to recycle your latex paint up to 10 containers. The full cost of $3/quart, $6/ gallon, and $20/pail will be charged for additional containers over the first
10. Oil based paint and stains can be recycled for $6/quart, $10/gallon, and $26/pail. Cash, credit card, or checks payable to “EarthPaint” will be accepted for payment of paint recycling.
Aerosol cans, small 14-16 ounce propane cylinders, and small butane cylinders will also be accepted by Flatcan Recycling. There is no cost for up to 10 containers. For over 10 items aerosol cans will be $1 each and propane and butane cylinders will be
$4 each for recycling. Not all aerosol products will be able to be accepted. Please call the OCSWMD at 815-732-4020 for specific questions or see the county website. Flatcan Recycling will also accept alkaline batteries for recycling for $4 per pound and one child car seat at no charge. Additional child car seats will be $10 per seat. Flatcan will also accept old clothing and textiles at no charge. Clean clothing, shoes, bedding, towels, and other household textiles will be
accepted. Items can be in any condition as long as they’re not wet or moldy. Items with rips, tears, stains that won’t wash out, missing buttons, zippers, etc. are acceptable.
Used oil, anti-freeze, and used oil filters will also be able to be recycled at the event. There is no fee for this service. Small containers of used oil and/or anti-freeze will be bulked together and your containers returned to you for future use. Large drums also accepted and will be vacuum-pumped
out. Limit 200 gallons, if you have more than 200 gallons please call the number above for recycling options. No fuels, cooking oils, or other automotive fluid will be accepted. This event is for Ogle County residents only and there are no permits required. Please call the number above, visit, or see the OCSWMD on Facebook at Ogle County Solid Waste Management Dept. for more information about this recycling event.
Ashton-Franklin Center Jr/Sr High School 611 Western Ave., Ashton, IL 61006
815-453-7461 | Malinda Hurt, Principal
Ashton-Franklin Center Elementary School 217 South Elm, Franklin Grove, IL 61031 815-456-2325 | Jenah Burkitt, Principal
Electricians
Electricians
Hilliker Electric LLC
Hilliker Electric LLC
1417 Franklin Rd., Franklin Grove, IL 61031
1417 Franklin Rd., Franklin Grove, IL 61031
815-456-7036
office@hillikerelectric.com
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Funeral Home Beverage Lyons Funeral Home 601 Richardson Ave., Ashton, 815-453-2441 beveragefamilyfh.com
Calvin Jerry Messer Memorial Golf Outing held July 13
MARKETPLACE Classified FREE!
maintenance purpos es, subject to the right of the electors in said District to petition and require an election concerning the imposition of such additional tax, pursuant to 75 ILCS 16/35-5.
BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that within fifteen (15) days from the date of adoption of the Ordinance, it shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the Creston-Dement Public Library District.
IN WITNESS WHERE-
OF, we have hereunder set our hands in Creston, Illinois this 15th day of July, 2025.
1. The specific number of voters required to sign a petition requesting that the question of adoption of the resolution be submitted to the electors of the District is 51.
2. The petition must be filed on or before August 22, 2025.
3. The referendum would be held March 17, 2026. Mary Korth
Secretary of the Board of Trustees
c/o Creston-Dement Public Library District 201 N. Main Street Creston, Illinois 60113 No. 0729 (July 23, 2025)
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Board of Trnstees of Community College District No. 523 in the Counties of DeKalb, Ogle, Lee, Boone, Kane, LaSalle, and Winnebago, State of Illinois, that a tentative budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026 will be on file and conveniently available to public inspection in the Business Office at Kishwaukee College in Malta, Illinois, from and after 8:00 o’clock a.m. on July 9, 2025. NOTICE IS FURTHER
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ANTIQUES WANTED:
I pay cash for antiques; furniture, glassware, pottery & crocks, tin & iron toys, sterling silver, decoys. If it’s antique, I’m interested in looking! Call 815-562-2928 or email dickharms@ hotmail.com
307 MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE
BUNDLED Newspaper -$3 per Bundle. Available MondayThursday 815-5624171 (9AM-3PM) Rochelle News Leader.
SPLIT Firewood For Sale. Contact 779-251-0254
FOR SALE. 21.5”W 33”H 36” D Freezer $100. 4 Drawer Filing Cabinet $20. (2) 2x2 Security Safe with Automatic Door & Combination Dial Lock $20 Each. Call Nancy 815-751-4146. (thruRNL07302025\ OCL07282025)
405 HOUSES FOR SALE
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RUMMAGE SALE - FRANKLIN GROVE Fri. Aug. 1 8a-4p Sat. Aug. 2 8a-1p Presbyterian Church accessible basement 106 S Walnut Girls’ sizes 2T-5T, Boys’ sizes 3mo-5T, Men’s and Women’s, Clothing - most sizes, Lots of 3X Women’s, Name Brand Clothing, Suitcases, Books, Purses, Shoes, Yarn, AND MUCH MORE! Sales all overHarvest Fest!
Former Rochelle student-athlete Gabrielle Harding transferred to North Central College and competed for the women’s track and field team as a graduate student during the 2025 season. Harding set three new personal records during her fifth season of collegiate track.
Harding reaches new PRs during graduate season at North Central
BY RUSSELL HODGES SPORTS EDITOR
GABRIELLE Harding closed out a successful track and field career at Concordia University Chicago in 2024, earning her bachelor’s degree and achieving CSC Academic All-District honors as a senior. Since then, Harding has been continuing her studies at North Central College, where the former RTHS student-athlete competed as a graduate student in 2025.
In some ways, Harding’s fifth season of track and field was the best of her career. The RTHS alum established new personal records in three of her four throwing events, winning the weight throw title at the Chicagoland Intercollegiate Indoor Invitational in February with a mark of 16.74 meters (54 feet 11 ¼ inches). Harding achieved a new record in her favorite event, the discus throw, during the CCIW Outdoor Championships, marking 40.41 meters (132 feet 7 inches).
“I was so blessed to walk into such an appreciative program,” Harding said. “I walked in thinking I only had one year to offer, but this team… It became my favorite season. This team was so much bigger and my teammates were a lot more involved with each other. It was so much fun to be a part of. I came from a team with a handful of throwers, but there
were a bunch of us this year and it was so fun to work with so many talented athletes. I’m so thankful for them.”
A four-year member of the track and field program at Concordia, Harding immediately took on a significant role at North Central, where the former Lady Hub standout continued to compete at the Division III level. Harding started nine meets during the indoor season and posted her first win of the season at the NCC Heenan Invitational in January, when she finished first in the weight throw. Harding finished sixth or better in all nine of her weight throw starts in 2025.
“My team is very competitive and I’m a competitive person, so joining this team was a reflection of my own values,” Harding said. “It was truly awesome and I knew each day that I had to step up, whether it was at practice or during meets. Being a fifth-year athlete, I recognized that I was one of the oldest athletes, so I tried to be a role model for the younger athletes and show them that I put a lot of work in to get to where I am today. The CCIW is a very competitive conference and I wanted to show everyone that I could still compete and have fun during this last season.”
This is the first of a two-part story on RTHS alum Gabrielle Harding. See the Sunday, July 27 issue of the Rochelle News-Leader for the second part of the story.
“I was so blessed to walk into such an appreciative program... It became my favorite season. This team was so much bigger and my teammates were a lot more involved with each other. It was so much fun to be a part of... it was so fun to work with so many talented athletes. I’m so thankful for them.”
