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Rochelle DAR selects winners of contest
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
The Rochelle Chapter DAR recently celebrated Constitution Week with a program titled “We the People” discussing six key players at the Constitutional Convention.
In order to encourage discussion about the constitutional form of government as the nation approaches the 250th birthday of the U.S., the chapter sponsored a Word Search contest open to all school-age youths in K-12. Two winners, who each received $50, were drawn at random from the submitted word searches. The winners were Jason Peerboom and Aaliyah Beatty. The next contest that the Rochelle Chapter is sponsoring is the American History Video Contest for grades 5-12. Students are encouraged to submit a video, not to exceed three minutes, relating to the following topics: Grade 5-8: “Lunch with a Signer” and Grade 9-12: “Revolutionary Era Figure.”
The winners, Jason Peerboom and Aaliyah Beatty,
regent and library director. ABOVE: The Rochelle Chapter DAR recently celebrated Constitution Week with a program titled “We the People” discussing six key players at the Constitutional Convention.
Each grade will compete separately, with monetary prizes to be awarded, and grade winners being sponsored for the state level competition. Details and the required forms to accompany each video can be found at ildar.org/chapters/ rochelle/pages/contests.html. All entries must be submitted online no later than Nov. 1, 2025.
Rochelle City Council: Permit approved for child care center at former News-Leader building
TIF redevelopment agreement for renovation of Cherry Avenue building approved
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Rochelle City Council on Tuesday, Oct. 14, unanimously approved a special-use permit for a child care center located at 211 E. Illinois Route 38, the former site of the Rochelle News-Leader office.
Daycare centers require a special-use permit in the city’s B2 zoning classification, which the building resides in.
Back in May, the City Council approved a special-use permit for a child care center at 450 Coronado Drive in Rochelle. That owner, which operates Mother’s Little Helper Learning Center in Sycamore, has now pivoted to the former newspaper building.
The day care would be the second of its kind in Rochelle. Little Hubs Learning Center is located at 1010 N. 15th St. and has a second location for school-aged children at Hicks Hall at 709 Fourth Ave. in Rochelle. Prior to Little Hubs Learning Center opening in 2023, the city had been without a day care since 2020.
Redevelopment
The council unanimously approved a
The cast of “An Evening of Edgar Allan Poe” includes (from left to right) Terry Camplain, John Davis, Amy Frank, Doug Rappa and Becky Luken-Peach. Jeff Helfrich ON THE COVER
tax-increment financing redevelopment agreement with Down Range Properties, LLC for a renovation project at 422 Cherry Ave.
Down Range Properties is owned by Matt Gerard, who also owns local gun shop Down Range Firearms. The $398,152 renovation project includes tuckpointing, doors, renovation of office and residential spaces, and a roof. Gerard will receive a maximum of $199,076 in the agreement, 50 percent of the project. Upon the work’s completion, Gerard will receive a payment of $39,815.20 by each December from 2026-2030.
The 422 Cherry Ave. property has been
See CITY COUNCIL, page 5
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are shown with Sarah Flanagan, Rochelle Chapter
Poe show has many October dates in Rochelle
‘An
Evening of Edgar Allan Poe’ cast of 5 to bring 4 tales to life on the stage Oct. 17-19, 24-25
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Vince Carney Community Theater at 108 S. Main St. in Rochelle will present “An Evening of Edgar Allan Poe” on Oct. 17-19 and 24-25.
By mixing monologues with a dash of history, actors will bring several of Edgar Allan Poe’s macabre stories to life on stage. Three short stories and one poem by Poe will be performed.
The production will be directed and narrated by Amy Frank. Terry Camplain will be performing “The Raven.” John Davis will be performing “Imp of the Perverse.” Becky Luken-Peach will perform “The Tell-Tale Heart.” Doug Rappa will be performing “Premature Burial.”
Shows will be at 7 p.m. each day, besides a matinee show at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19. Tickets now are on sale online at vcctrochelle.org and will be available at the door. Concessions and drinks will be served. The show will be VCCT’s first with its new liquor license, and a bar and Poe-themed drinks will be available.
“Each work will be delivered as a first-person monologue by one actor,” Frank said.
“Each actor had to memorize a 20-minute monologue. They’re going to be delivering it, not just reading from a book. Two of the works are very well-known and two aren’t as well-known. It will be a little bit of a history lesson along with the show. And it’s the Halloween season. Edgar Allan Poe has that dark style and large following. People who aren’t as familiar with him will learn something,” she said.
The show does not have an assistant director, as that role has been filled in a collaboration between the four cast members, producer and tech crew.
The idea to put on “An Evening of Edgar Allan Poe” came after Frank and her husband saw an Edgar Allan Poe show in Rockford and both thought VCCT should do something like it. Poe’s works are more than 100 years
old and are free to perform.
Frank has spent the past couple of years writing, doing research and building the introductions for the show, which was approved by the VCCT board after she pitched it.
“We have history and insight into why Poe wrote the stories we’re performing,” Frank said. “People shouldn’t expect anything gruesome from the show. Even though it’s macabre, it’s not gruesome. It will be a little darker and spooky and slower. It’s a drama.”
Preparation for the show has been unique due to all of the memorization it takes, Frank said. Cast members have
had to memorize “pages upon pages” of monologue and will be alone on stage
without other actors to play off of.
Another challenge has been the sentence structures and vocabulary that were written by Poe in the 1840s.
“We have to be able to convey this all to the audience,” Frank said. “Our actors have enjoyed the challenge of preparing for this show. This is getting them out of their comfort zone. That’s always sought after for actors.”
Frank said she’s excited to see the show come to life and to set the mood for the community during Halloween season.
“It’s about bringing the words in a book to life on a stage,” Frank said. “It’s acting. It’s a one-person show.”
Photos by Jeff Helfrich
The “An Evening of Edgar Allan Poe” cast includes (from left) Terry Camplain, John Davis, Amy Frank, Doug Rappa and Becky Luken-Peach.
John Davis will be performing “Imp of the Perverse” in the show.
New HUB Program funding to be applied for
New system that would track students on buses also discussed
By JEFF HELFRICH jhelfrich@shawmedia.com
The Rochelle Elementary School Board heard an update Tuesday, Oct. 14, from HUB Program Director Yazmin Nambo, who said the district will be applying for new HUB Program funding in coming weeks.
After its grant cycle ended in the summer of 2025, the district is now locally funding its HUB Program this semester through Dec. 12.
Programming is running in a more limited fashion this semester. The HUB Program is not offering a morning option, and some of its previous enrichment opportunities are not available. Students are still benefiting from the after-school program, daily academic support, snacks and door-to-door transportation as needed.
The grant-funded HUB Program is specifically targeted to support the district’s K-8 at-risk youths and has used a before and after-school model plus summer school. It provides educational activities for children and experiences such as field trips and members of the community coming in to do demonstrations for the students. The HUB Program recently finished its third year of a three-year grant cycle following winning two five-year grant cycles for a total of 13 years.
A grant that could fund the HUB Program in the future was recently made available to schools and Nambo said the deadline to apply is Nov. 24. The district previously was without a timeline on a grant application.
“It’s big news,” Superintendent Jason Harper said. “Ms. Nambo will be heading up a team that we previously had in place to submit that application. Nothing is guaranteed. There will be a webinar to learn more information about what the grant looks like.”
Pending a new grant, the district has no current plans for the HUB Program after this semester and has communicated that change to parents so they can make other arrangements.
The HUB Program currently has 135 students enrolled in it, about 100 less than last year due to scaling back. Fifth graders in the program are attending it at
is currently posted to help with that need.
Foundation
The board heard an update on the David Crawford Foundation, which supports elementary district programming with grants. Todd Prusator, foundation board president, said the foundation is in its 31st year and is in “good financial standing.”
Rochelle Middle School instead of Central Elementary School to get them prepared for their entry to sixth grade.
The program is currently relying more on community organizations for enrichment programming due to less funding, Nambo said.
“We went to Rochelle Township High School to watch their play and everyone enjoyed that,” Nambo said. “Students in a future teacher program have been coming over to work with the kids. Our fourth graders have been excited to learn about biodomes. And our bus drivers will be coming over soon to do an activity with students. Our teachers have been super enthusiastic and keeping a positive attitude and making sure all of the kids are having fun and still enjoying it even though we don’t have all the things we’d usually have.”
Buses
Harper discussed ongoing work in both districts to establish a student and bus tracking system for students and families that utilize the shared district transportation department.
Students would scan tags when getting onto and off of buses and parents and the district would be able to track where buses are and what students are on them. Parents would be able to see when their students are scheduled to arrive at home and school and get an alert when they get on and off the bus.
The program would take 9-12 months to implement, Harper said.
“This system doesn’t remove human error,” Harper said. “Parents still have to report information to us and that has to get into the system. Kids may forget to tag on or tag off the bus. There is an alert system for when students may forget to get off and the bus driver would handle that.”
This past year, the foundation allocated $8,300 for 16 grants for teachers to do more in classrooms. Prusator said the foundation has seen low turnout at recent spaghetti dinner fundraisers and is looking at other options for fundraising, but wants to continue to have a family aspect to fundraising. The foundation saw $3,000 donated by community organizations last year.
“We will continue to support the elementary district with grants,” Prusator said. “We also have enough funds that if there’s anything else the district needs that’s above and beyond its current budget, we can help out.” The board unanimously approved the appointments of Kevin Zilm, Donna Drought and Holly Duthie to the Crawford Foundation Board for new two-year terms.
The board will consider the tracking system for approval at a future meeting.
Enrollment
Harper provided a yearly update on enrollment to the board on Tuesday. The district has 1,435 students from kindergarten through eighth grade, up five from last year. Last year the district saw an increase of 18 students.
“While we’re not seeing a lot of growth, we’re not having a year where it’s going down,” Harper said. “The best term to give this is a continuing plateau.”
In recent years, the district and community have had concerns of declining enrollment. May Elementary School was closed by the board ahead of the 2021 school year due to declining enrollment and the district’s new attendance center model before being reopened this fall as a preschool.
The elementary district has an average of 160 students per grade, with exactly 160 kids in its kindergarten this year; 56% of those kindergarteners are in the dual language program.
Harper said the district has been working to balance the needs of dual language versus monolingual students, and a current high staff-to-student ratio currently exists in fourth grade monolingual. A job
Levy
The board heard an update on its finances and planned tax levy from business office employees Kevin Dale and Matt Zilm. The district plans to increase its tax levy from last year by 4.7%, which will not require a truth in taxation hearing due to being below 5%.
The district will receive about $500,000 more than last year to “keep up with inflation and increased costs,” Dale said. The levy will be up for approval next month.
Personnel
The board unanimously approved personnel changes, included the certified employment of Ireland Bradfield (longterm sub starting January 2026), the support staff resignations of Liza Lantz (paraprofessional, Lincoln Elementary School) and Jose Vicente (bilingual paraprofessional, RMS) and the support staff employment of Epifanio Belmonte (maintenance, Central), Alexis Czaplinski (paraprofessional, Central), Michael Dalen (maintenance, Central), Rosa Fonseca (paraprofessional, Lincoln), Tania Guzman (maintenance, May), Hailey Mallette (Paraprofessional, Lincoln), Kaitlin Miller (paraprofessional, RMS) and Jennifer Monroy, bilingual paraprofessional (RMS).
Photos by Jeff Helfrich
Todd Prusator of the David Crawford Foundation speaks during the Oct. 14, meeting of the Rochelle Elementary School District Board of Education.
Board President Steve Builta (left) and Board Member Stephanie White are shown during the Oct. 14, meeting of the Rochelle Elementary School District Board of Education.
• CITY COUNCIL
Continued from page 2
vacant for 13 years. In a letter to city officials, Gerard said his plans for the building include transforming it into a “vibrant, multi-use facility that will directly contribute to the economic and cultural growth of the downtown district.”
Plans consist of residential units, tourism-oriented spaces, and multiple small business suites. TIF districts generate increment funding from property value increases within them, which can then be used to help fund renovation projects.
“This is what a TIF district is created for,” City Council member Tom McDermott said. “This building has sat vacant for years. It’s getting more and more run down. If someone wasn’t brave enough to take on this challenge, in five years we would have been debating whether the city can buy it and tear it down and put in a parking lot.”
Levy
City Manager Jeff Fiegenschuh made a presentation on the city’s 2026 tax levy during the meeting. The City Council plans to vote on a 3% levy increase at its
Oct. 27 meeting.
Last year, the city’s equalized assessed valuation was $324,521,968 and its property tax rate was .928120 per $100
of EAV. The city collected $3,011,953 in property taxes last year. For 2025, Ogle County has estimated the city’s EAV at $354,394,722, which is an increase of
almost $30 million.
The 3% increase would see the city
Jeff Helfrich
The former Rochelle News-Leader building is located at 211 E. Illinois Route 38 in Rochelle.
CHURCH DIRECTORY
Ashton Bible Church, corner of Main and Paddock in Ashton. Pastor Farrel Stauffer, church phone is (815)453-2190, church website www.ashtonbible.org0. Sunday School for all ages 9:00-10:00am, Morning Worship 10:15am, Wednesday Prayer Meeting/Bible Study 6:30-8:00pm.
Calvary Lighthouse Church, Assemblies of God, Senior Pastor, Dr. James Horvath. 14409 Hemstock Rd., Rochelle. Sunday Morning: Sunday Worship & Children’s Church 10:00 A.M., Wednesday Evening 7:00 P.M. – Adult Teaching, Missionettes & Royal Rangers Childrens Classes, Nursery available for all services. HE-Brews Cafe is open before and after services. For further information, please call the CLC office at 815-5627701, or email us at staff@calvarylighthouse.com
Church of Christ, Keeping Christ at the center in the Hub City. We meet Sundays at 9:00am for Bible Study and 10:00am for worship. We also have a Wednesday Bible Study at 7:00pm. 206 Erickson Rd, Rochelle, IL 61068. You can call us at (815) 562-6572 or visit us on the web at rochellechurch.com. We also have a radio program Sundays just after 8am on WRHL 1060AM. Minister Dominic Venuso.
Creston United Methodist Church - Rev. Ilhan You, Creston: 126 West South Street, P.O. Box 209, Creston, Illinois 60113. Sunday morning worship 9:00am. Coffee fellowship at 10:15am. Steward: 507 Main Street, P.O. Box 80, Steward, IL 60553. Adult Sunday School, 10:00am. Sunday morning worship and Children’s Sunday School 11:00am. Contact the church office at 847-730-4370 for more information. facebook. comcrestonumcil faccebook.com/stewardilumc
Elim Reformed Church, 140 S. Church Road, Kings, IL 61068. Phone: 815-562-6811. Email goelimchurch@gmail.com Website www.goelimchurch.org Sunday Morning Worship 10:00 Rev. Marv Jacobs
Faith Lutheran Church – (14206 E. Flagg Rd.) – “Making Christ Known Through Lives of Faith.” In-person worship is available each Sunday at 9:00 a.m. or online at “Faith Lutheran Social” on YouTube. Worship resources are also available on our Facebook page - ‘Faith Lutheran Church ELCA.’ You may also e-mail Pastor Joy Alsop at Pastor@ faithlcrochelle.org for more information. All are welcome to join us!
First General Baptist Church, 500 S. 12th St, Rochelle. Phone: 815-562-5221. Email: fgbcrochelle@gmail.com.Website: www.fgbcrochelle.org. Facebook: www.facebook. com/fgbcrochelle.Pastor: Rev. Angelo Bonacquisti. Sunday worship services: 8:30 am, 11:15 am and 6:00 pm. Sunday school: 10:00 am. We’d be honored to have you join us as we worship JESUS and continue to grow in truth and love for God and each other. A nursery, children’s church, youth group and small groups are available. If you need a ride please contact our church bus driver, John, at (815) 262-4275 by 8:30 am on Sunday. “For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9
First Presbyterian Church – An Amazing Place for Amazing Grace - 1100 Calvin Road, Rochelle. Email: info@placeforgrace.com. Sunday morning worship 9:00am. In person or streamed online. On our Website and Facebook Live. www.placeforgrace.com/ www. facebook.com/placeforgrace
Harvest Baptist Church 241 Scott Ave. (Hillcrest). Rev. Duane Boehm, pastor. Email duane712@hotmail.com, cell 815-757-3427. Visit us on Facebook! Service times: Sunday morning worship with Children’s Church at 10 am. Wednesday night worship at 7 pm.
Immanuel Lutheran Church Missouri Synod 16060 E. Lindenwood Road, Lindenwood, IL 61049. Rev. Dr. Matthew Rosebrock. Church Phone 393-4500. Church Worship 9:00 a.m. Sunday School Christian Education Hour at 10:30 a.m.
Living Water Community Church 405 N. Main St, Downtown Rochelle. Phone 815561-6249, Website: www.lwccr.com, Like us on Facebook. We are Non-Denominational, Christ Centered, Casual dress, Christ Centered Live Band Worship. Mike Vogeler - Outreach and Seven C’s Pastor, Chris Bender- Teaching Pastor and Doug BungerMissions and Children’s Pastor. Sunday Worship Service- 10:00am. Nursery/Toddlers
Ages 0-5 available during the service in the Splash building. Swim- Grades 1st-5th worship with the adults then break out for age appropriate teaching. Youth groups, Small groups, Life Groups and Workshops meet throughout the year for Bible teaching. 7C’s Mission- serves the community physically & spiritually each month from 1135 Lincoln Hwy, providing lightly used clothing, Hygiene items, a light lunch and Elder Prayer open the second Saturday from 10am-2pm and the 4th Thursday from 4pm to 7:00pm and by appointment.
New Hope Fellowship (Church of God - Anderson, IN), 1501 10th Ave., Rochelle, IL 61068. Service: Sunday at 9 a.m. 10:30 a.m., (815)561-8400, www.NHFchurch.net Pastor: Dan Sergeant and Pastor Nick Tornabene. (Classes for children through age fifth grade during service.)
Rochelle United Methodist Church welcomes everyone to their worship service, and practices openness for all activities including communion. Worship is at 9:00 am. Sunday school for children begins around 9:15, following the Children’s Time in worship. A fellowship time with food and space for conversation occurs in Hicks Hall every week following the worship service. We celebrate communion with an open table on the first Sunday of every month, and on other appropriate occasions. Youth group is on Sunday evenings from 5:30-7:30. Our youth program includes service projects, discussion topics, Bible Study, and lots of fun and fellowship together. Some of our activities include packing meals at Feed My Starving Children, helping at Rochelle Christian Food Pantry and 7C’s, working with animals at Barn on Baseline, Mystery trips (Destination Unknown!), and Interactive experiences on Dating boundaries, refugees, and homelessness. Youth group is for grades 6-12 and friends are always welcome. Recorded services are available on our YouTube channel and our website at www.rochelleumc.com. Our services are on the radio (93.5 FM) on Sunday mornings at 9:00 am. Our Facebook page is www.facebook.com/rochelleumc. Our pastor is the Rev. Dr. Katherine Thomas Paisley. Our address is 709 Fourth Ave. (815) 562-2164. Email is admin@rochelleumc. com. At Rochelle United Methodist Church, everyone is welcome and loved!
Steward United Methodist Church - Rev. Ilhan You, Creston: 126 West South Street, P.O. Box 209, Creston, Illinois 60113. Sunday morning worship 9:00am. Coffee fellowship at 10:15am. Steward: 507 Main Street, P.O. Box 80, Steward, IL 60553. Adult Sunday School, 10:00am. Sunday morning worship and Children’s Sunday School 11:00am. Contact the church office at 847-730-4370 for more information. facebook. comcrestonumcil faccebook.com/stewardilumc
St. John’s Lutheran Church, 126 E. South Street, Creston. Phone 815-384-3720, Email: StJohnsLutheran@aol.com, members of NALC/LCMC. Worship is led by Pastor Terese Whitten 231-878-4150. St. John’s Lutheran Church is a part of God’s Family, planting hope, nurturing faith and harvesting love. Coffee or Fellowship at 10:00 a.m. Worship begins at 10:45 a.m. Sunday school is conducted during worship service except during the summer.
St. Patrick Catholic Church Rev. Jesus Dominguez; Deacon Prosper Agbetrobu; Deacon Fermin Garcia; Deacon George Schramm; 244 Kelley Dr. (Corner of Kelley & Caron Rd.) PO Box 329, Rochelle, IL, 61068. Office Hours: 9:00 AM - 4 PM Monday-Thursday, Phone: 815-562-2370. Mass Times: 8:00 AM Monday-Thursday, Saturday Vigil Mass: 5:00 PM English, 7 PM Spanish, Sunday Mass 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM in English and 11:00 AM in Spanish. Confessions: Monday 8:30-9:00 AM & 6:00-6:45 PM, Tuesday 8:30-9:00 AM, Thursday 6:00-6:30 PM, Saturday 4:00-4:45 PM Or by appointment. Religious Education: Erin Robles, Director of Religious Education, 903 Caron Road, Rochelle, IL 61068, 815-561-0079 or 815-562-2370. Website: stpatricksrochelle.com. Email: stpatrick-rochelle@rockforddiocese.org. Facebook.com/StPatrickRochelle.
St. Paul Lutheran Church “Building Relationships in Christ, Now and Forever!” Steven Hall, Principal, Parish Nurse-Marcia Schnorr. 1415 Tenth Ave., Rochelle. Church Office-562-2744. Worship times: 6:00 p.m. Saturday, 9:00 a.m. Sunday. Our service is broadcast over WRHL 1060AM at 10:00 a.m. Sunday. Sunday School 10:15-11:15 a.m. Call 562-6323 for more information about the school.
• CITY COUNCIL
Continued from page 5
collect $3,104,199 in property taxes. Based on the estimated EAV, the tax rate would decrease .052204 per $100 EAV for the 3% option.
“Any time we can talk about people’s taxes going down, I think it’s pretty good news,” Mayor John Bearrows said. “That shows a lot of diligence and determination internally to make sure we stay property funded.”
The proposed 2025 levy includes funding for police and fire pension funds.
Liquor
The council unanimously approved an ordinance amending hours of sales of alcoholic beverages. The city’s code will now show that bars can be open from 6 a.m. until 2 a.m. on Thursdays. The ordinance previously listed Thursday hours as 6 a.m. to 1 a.m., but bars had been operating until 2 a.m. for years. The oversight was brought to the city’s attention after an issue with some gaming machines turning off at 1 a.m. Gaming machines are tied to bar operating hours. Bars in Rochelle are open Monday-Wednes -
day 6 a.m. to 1 a.m., Thursday-Saturday 6 a.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
The council also amended its liquor license eligibility code to remove a requirement that said a liquor license holder must reside within the city. City officials said Tuesday that multiple current liquor license holders do not reside within Rochelle.
The City Council considered language that would have required liquor license holders to live within 75 miles of Rochelle, but decided to remove the location requirement completely.
Stop signs
The council unanimously approved the installation of all-way stop intersections at Seventh Avenue and Second Street, Eighth Avenue and Woolf Court, South Main Street and Veterans Parkway/Standard Oil Road, Eighth Street and Fifth Avenue and Sixth Street and Fourth Avenue.
The various intersections were changed to all-way stops to better manage traffic and improve motorist and pedestrian safety. High truck and/or pedestrian traffic issues are seen at each of the intersections, City Public Works Director Tim Isley said Tuesday.
OBITUARIES
MELANY HAMILTON
Died: October 10, 2025
Melany Dawn (Stephenson) Hamilton, age 72, of Scott Township, PA passed away on Friday, October 10, 2025. Beloved wife of the Rev. Dr. John G. Hamilton for 47 years; loving mother of Stephen (Nadine) Hamilton, Bethany (Rob) Clearfield, and Elissa Hamilton; cherished daughter of Geraldine and the late James Stephenson; loving grandmother of Jamie Hamilton, Emma Hamilton, and Paulina Hamilton; sister of Michael (Kathy) Stephenson, Jan Calvert, and Cathy (Davis) Johnson; also many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Melany was born in North Carolina and grew up in Virginia Beach. She graduated from
STEVEN M. DUMMER
Steven M. Dummer, 64, of Rochelle, passed on October 11, 2025.
Arrangements entrusted to Unger-Horner Funeral Home, Rochelle. Additional information: 815-562-4534.
Bayside High School, and earned her master’s degree from Union Theological Seminary, Richmond, VA. Melany served as the pastor of Presbyterian Churches in Utica, and Mt. Pleasant, PA, as well as Kings and Holcomb Churches and Stillman Valley in Illinois. She substituted at a church in Bel Air, MD. for author Eugene Peterson, and served most recently as the Associate Pastor at Bethany Presbyterian Church, Bridgeville, alongside her husband Rev. Dr. John G. Hamilton. Family and friends received on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the Warchol Funeral Home Inc., 3060 Washington Pike, Bridgeville (412.221.3333). A funeral service will be held on Friday at 11 AM at Bethany Presbyterian Church. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff at Bridges Hospice for their kindness and exceptional care. Donations may be made to a church, mission, or animal rescue of your choice in honor of Melany.
FALL HARVEST
FALL HARVEST
Fall is loaded with opportunities to have fun
It can be bittersweet to say farewell to summer. Months of warm weather and sunshine are hard to beat and provide plenty of opportunities to rest and relax.
Just because summer has come and gone doesn’t mean the opportunity to enjoy recreation is in the rearview mirror. Fall is awash in opportunities to enjoy the fresh, inviting air and take part in the various activities that go hand-in-hand with this time of year.
APPLE AND PUMPKIN PICKING
Heading to a nearby orchard or farm and choosing fresh fruit is a hallmark of fall. In fact, these are some of the most popular places to visit on the weekends, as crowds of people clamber to grab their Granny Smith or Cortland apples. Call ahead to learn which varieties are ripe and plan to arrive early before the trees are picked clean.
Apple orchards and pumpkin patches can be dusty, muddy or messy, so dress accordingly for the environment, including closed-toe shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. Keep in mind that many
of these establishments are cash-only. Bring cash and expect to have your bounty weighed upon checkout.
WINE TASTING
September and October are prime months for grape harvesting, which means local vineyards may host special tours and events to take advantage of their growing season.
Fall also is a great time to visit a vineyard that offers tastings, as you can sit out in the sun and cool weather and enjoy a glass or two of the latest vintage. Follow local vineyards on social media or get on their email lists to stay on top of upcoming events.
LEAF PEEPING
The gradual depletion of chlorophyll in tree leaves is responsible for the amazing and colorful display Mother Nature puts on each fall. Everyone is treated to vivid panoramas of reds, oranges, purples, and yellows, making them ideal all-natural photo backdrops.
Plenty of people travel to more rural areas to witness leaves change color, and that means that country areas can get crowded. It always pays to plan a leaf-peeping excursion for early in the
day to account for the possibility of traffic along the route. Make an entire day of it by seeing the sights, grabbing lunch, and hitting a farmer’s market while out and about.
Many
FALL HARVEST
6 issues affecting farmers
The agricultural sector continues to face unique challenges. Issues affecting the agricultural sector have a ripple effect that affects domestic food security and the economic strength of rural communities.
In order to adapt to the changing landscape, farmers need to identify strengths and weaknesses in their operations, and then collaborate with policyholders to create a more resilient agricultural sector that benefits all involved. The following are six notable challenges farmers face in modern agriculture, based on data from Verdesian, a nutrient use efficiency company; AgAmerica, an agriculture lending firm; and Pinion, a business advisory organization.
1. Labor shortages
Finding and retaining skilled agricultural labor is a notable challenge. The aging farmer population coupled with labor shortages is a concern. There is a need for new talent in farming as older generations are retiring and younger ones are failing to fill in the gaps.
2. Depletion of agricultural resources
The global population continues to grow, which means the demand for food and other agricultural products is increasing. This puts a strain on the resources farmers rely on that may be in short supply. Farming utilizes a considerable amount of the world’s freshwater supply, and farmers must continually identify ways to manage water resources efficiently, including wastewater reuse initiatives. As fossil fuels also may be finite resources, the agricultural industry needs to pivot to renewable energy alternatives, some of which may require considerable costs to retrofit current operations.
3. Inflation and food prices
Although the cost of food is no longer as high as it was just a few years ago, consumers are still feeling the pinch at supermarkets and other retail
stores. Shoppers may continue to tighten their budgets and spend less on food, which may translate into reduced demand for produce and other food products. The food price outlook is uncertain, and historical data indicates food price deflation only occurred once in the past 50 years. Farmers may have to adjust operations to produce more for less to be competitive in the marketplace.
4. Technological overhauls
It’s becoming increasingly necessary for farms to utilize new technologies and embrace automation. Some farmers may not be trained in the utilization and application of these technologies, and conversion to new farming practices may require education/skills to manage new tools, or the hiring of skilled technicians from a shrinking agricultural workforce.
5. Climate change
Climate change and extreme weather can have a notable impact on farming. Weather events like droughts, floods and storms have become more common and severe. Farmers are vulnerable to unpredictable conditions and crop yields.
6. Animal illnesses
One only has to look to the recent avian influenza outbreak to understand the disruption illnesses can have on livestock. The disease has led to mass culling of infested flocks, which has caused widespread losses in chickens, financial burdens to poultry farms and disruptions to egg production that has driven up costs. Bird flu is not isolated to poultry, either. Avian flu can affect dairy cattle, causing decreased milk production and cow death. The need for cleanup procedures and biosecurity measures from these illnesses puts an added financial burden on farmers.
Modern farmers face many different challenges that require adjustment to meet consumer demands. TF257019
What consumers can do to support local farmers
A strong agricultural sector is vital to a healthy economy. Turbulence has affected local and national economies in recent years, and the global economy has endured its own ups and downs during that span.
Though there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to economic struggles, consumers can make a difference by supporting local agricultural producers. A 2022 report from researchers at Maryville University indicated roughly 10 percent of workers across the United States were employed in the agricultural sector, which the report also noted contributes $7 trillion annually to the national economy. Job creation and economic output are two major reasons to support local farmers, and consumers can do that in various ways.
• Shop local. The shop local movement can make a notable impact on local economies, and it affects more businesses than brick-and-mortar stores on Main Street. Locally owned restaurants and grocers often source their foods from local farmers, so patronizing such businesses supports those who set up shop on Main Street as well as
the farmers who stock their shelves and pantries.
• Purchase seasonal foods. The organization Green America, which offers advice on how environmental sustainability produces stronger economies, notes that purchasing seasonal foods is a great way to support local farmers. Farmers grow seasonal foods throughout the year to take advantage of natural conditions. Consumers who alter their purchasing habits with the seasons by
buying foods that are in-season are likely supporting local agricultural producers. Read product labels to determine where foods are coming from.
Non-seasonal foods are likely imported from far away, which has a detrimental impact on the environment and local economies.
• Buy directly from local farms. Most consumers purchase their food from grocery stores near their homes, but it might be possible to pur-
chase directly from local farmers. Farmers may utilize e-commerce tools to sell directly to local residents, and might even offer delivery services that are more convenient than driving to the nearest chain grocery store.
• Act as an advocate for local producers. Consumers have considerable power, and that power can be exercised in numerous ways. Supporting restaurants that source foods from local farmers is one way consumers can exercise their power. But consumers also can advocate for local farmers by supporting legislation and candidates that prioritize building and supporting a strong local agricultural sector. Consumers also can advocate for local farmers by sharing their experiences via social media, word-of-mouth recommendations or writing positive reviews through aggregators like Google Reviews.
A thriving agricultural sector benefits local economies, and consumers can do much to support the farmers who operate in their towns. TF257017
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Visiting a local apple orchard and picking one’s fill of apples is a quintessential fall activity. Apple picking is an ideal way to spend time outdoors when the weather tends to be cool and pleasant. Gathering fresh-from-the-tree fruit to turn into favorite fall desserts like cobblers and pies is irresistible.
According to the Economic Research Service, Washington state is the leading apple producer in the United States. It is followed very distantly by New York and Michigan. Apples were first cultivated in Canada by early French settlers, with the first trees planted in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley around 1633. Today, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, and British Columbia have become strong players in the apple business. While other areas may not be apple meccas, those looking to pick their own have plenty of options across North American to enjoy this pastime.
Prior to an apple picking adventure, people can do a little preparation to ensure the afternoon is fun and fruitful.
FALL HARVEST
Apple picking pointers
• Do some research. Before individuals head out, they should do research into the available orchards and which apple varieties they specialize in. Ripening seasons vary, so certain varieties may not be available at all times. Call ahead to learn which apples are ripe and when.
• Dress appropriately. Orchards can be dusty, muddy and buggy. The ground also may be uneven. Individuals can wear comfortable clothes and closed-toed shoes that can get dirty. Also, they should dress in layers, as it can be chilly early in the day and then warmer later on.
• Pick correctly. Instead of yanking on the apples, which can damage the tree and apples, people should gently roll or twist the apple upwards from the branch. If the apple is ripe it will detach easily with stem intact.
• Avoid bruising. It’s wise to inspect the apples to make sure they are firm and brightly colored. Those with bruising or insect damage should be left behind.
• Visit early. The best apples are often available early in the season before the trees have been heavily picked over. It’s also a good idea to visit the orchard early in the day, which means cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
• Don’t overload. Only pick what you need. Apples are delicate, and overloading the apples into bags can crush or bruise the ones on the bottom. Plus, over-picking means that the apples may spoil before they can be eaten.
After a day at the orchard, apples can be stored unwashed in a cool, dark place, which will help them stay fresher, longer. TF259181
MARCIA ELLEN HALVERSON
Born: January 26, 1941
Died: October 11, 2025
Marcia Ellen (Erickson) Halverson, 84, has gone to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Marcia peacefully passed away on October 11, 2025, surrounded by family at Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb, Illinois.
Marcia was born in Creston, Illinois, on January 26, 1941, to Mary (Shook) and Clarence Erickson. She was the second of nine children. She graduated from Rochelle Township High
School and earned her associate’s degree from Kishwaukee College in Malta, Illinois. She began her career at Northern Illinois University. In 1963, Marcia married Gerald Halverson. She later left her career to stay at home and lovingly raise their four children before returning to NIU as an administrative secretary.
Marcia had a passion for singing, playing several musical instruments, baking wonderful pies, breads, and Kringla (to name a few), knitting and crocheting, writing, and studying the Bible. She passed on her love of Jesus to her children and grandchildren through many ways including her daily texts of Bible verses. She was a prayer warrior for her family and for anyone in need. Marcia was active in community service, particularly through Trinity Lutheran Church in DeKalb, Illinois. She
RONALD “RON” HEAL
Born: August 24, 1948
Died: October 11, 2025
Ronald (Ron) Heal, of Esmond, passed away peacefully at home at the age of 77 with family by his side. The family is forever grateful for the OSF and Northwestern medical staff, Empower Home Health (Nurse Kim), Visiting Angels of DeKalb (Caregivers Michelle and Bridget), and Serenity Hospice in their efforts and care for Ron alongside the support given by family and friends near and far.
Ron was born on August 24, 1948 in DeKalb to Melvin and Mildred (Barchard) Heal. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in agriculture from Illinois State University, on June 3, 1972 he married Nancy Crouch, whom he had met on a blind date. Over the first nine years of their marriage they welcomed two children into their family, Randy and Stephanie. His children remember him as loving, loyal, and driven who encouraged them to pursue their life goals. A lifelong farmer, Ron worked on and took over his family’s farm raising livestock and growing grain. In addition to being a farmer, Ron built strong relationships with his clients after establishing his own long-running successful crop insurance agency.
Ron had a strong work ethic, but did not compromise his family time and was a proud dad.
always cherished and believed in her family and made sure they knew they were loved. She took great delight in her children’s and grandchildren’s talents and accomplishments in music, art, healthcare, and business. She loved introducing them to her friends and fellow congregants.
Marcia is survived by her four children: Brian Halverson, Bruce Halverson, Rhonda (Tony) Koach, and Randy (Wanda) Halverson; five grandchildren: John, Valerie, Tyler, Jagger, and Mia; two brothers, Lindy and Paul; three sisters: Connie, Pat, and Kathy; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers: Richard, Alan, and Art; daughter-in-law, Adriana; nephew, Matt; and her beloved husband, Gerald “Jerry” Halverson.
The family would like to thank all the doctors and ICU nurses at Kishwaukee Hospital for their tireless care and compassion. Marcia is now reunited with Jerry in heaven, where the voices are always in tune and the strings and hearts never again break. Peace be with you all through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
A visitation will be held at Anderson Funeral Home on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 PM. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church in DeKalb, Illinois. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Creston.
For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.
He enjoyed watching sports and made all that met him feel welcome and a part of the family. He loved his life on the farm, never living more than 5 miles from where he grew up. Ron’s favorite part of farming was combining corn, savoring the rewards of his labor.
Ron is survived by his children Randy Heal (David Westbrooks) of Mountain Brook, Alabama and Stephanie Heal of Raleigh, North Carolina, brother Fred (Mary) Heal of Byron, and father-in-law William (Bill) Crouch of Sycamore. He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Larry (Carrol) Heal and Ken (Barb) Heal, and his wife of over 48 years, Nancy. Visitation will take place at Anderson Funeral Home, 2011 S 4th St, DeKalb, IL 60115 on Sunday, October 19th from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. A funeral service will be held at Esmond
United Methodist Church, 675 Eychaner Rd, Esmond, IL 60129 on Monday, October 20th at 10:00 am followed by graveside service at Greenview Cemetery in Esmond.
Since Ron’s wife Nancy passed on December 14, 2020 during the pandemic, she will also be memorialized at his funeral. The family hopes Nancy’s memorial service will provide extended family and friends the closure that wasn’t possible at the time of her passing.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Esmond United Methodist Church or Greenview Cemetery Association, addressed to the Heal Family in care of Anderson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 605, 2011 South Fourth Street, DeKalb, IL 60115.
For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.
Born: July 1, 1931 in Los Angeles, CA
Died: October 11, 2025 in Oregon, IL
Carol Ann McMullin, 94, of Rochelle, Illinois, passed away on October 11, 2025 at Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon, Illinois, after a short illness.
Carol was born in Los Angeles, California to Leo and Barbara (Hochrein) Walch on July 1, 1931. She graduated from Elgin, Illinois High School. She later worked as an administrative assistant for Palatine High School until 1972. She married Erwald Weide in Palatine, Illinois in 1950. He preceded her in
death in 1967. On June 23, 1973, she married James C. McMullin in Palatine, Illinois and subsequently moved to Rochelle, Illinois. Carol was a volunteer in the VFW Ladies’ Auxiliary for many years where the pies she baked for the weekly Bingo games were loved by all. She also was a faithful member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, where she was a member of the altar guild.
Carol and Jim loved traveling in their camper with their dog Willy in tow to visit their grandchildren in Texas and also found joy visiting their grandchildren in the Rochelle, Dixon, and Palatine, Illinois areas.
Carol also loved having her hair and nails “done”, eating fish sandwiches from Culver’s, working on crossword puzzles, watching Gunsmoke and Jeopardy, playing Battleship with her grandson Chad, riding in Ellen’s
two-seat Mercedes sport car with the wind in her hair, and visiting the bison at the Nachusa Grasslands. Her joys were simple.
Carol was preceded in death by both her husbands Erwald and Jim, sons John and Michael Weide, brother Leo Walch, Jr., and parents Leo and Barbara.
Carol is survived by four stepchildren: Ellen (Carl)Mumford, Dixon, Illinois; James R. McMullin (Mercedes) Dixon, Illinois; Susan Alvarado, Colleyville, Texas; Janice Carleton, Huntington Beach California; daughter-in-law Jean Weide, Palatine, Illinois; and sister-inlaw Hilda Walch, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Grandchildren include Rachel Landa, Jessi Fiscal, Chad Mumford, Kimberly Knudten, Ryder Carleton, Lisa Schumaker, Amy Boster, Christi Koop, August Alvarado, Elisa Alvarado, April Clark, Adrea Svela, Jim McMullin, Tracy
Johnson; and many great grandchildren.
Carol was a hard-working woman who was loved and will be missed. May she find wellearned peace and eternal rest. Memorials may be given to Serenity Hospice and Home, Oregon, Illinois and Faith Lutheran Church in Rochelle, Illinois. Special thanks to Antonia Weeks and Sherry Smith who lovingly helped Carol in times of need.
Visitation will be held at 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Beverage-Lyons Funeral Home, 704 N. 6th St. Rochelle, Illinois 61068. A funeral service will follow to be officiated by Pastor Joy Alsop of Faith Lutheran Church. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Creston, Illinois. Arrangements were entrusted to Beverage-Lyons Family Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.beveragefamilyfh.com
CAROL MCMULLIN
HOW TO PLAY
Each row, column and set of 3-by-3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 through 9 without repetition.
Pickles
Wizard of Id
Alley Oop
Garfield
Hagar the Horrible
Barney Google and Snuffy Smith
Daddy Daze
JANRIC CLASSIC SUDOKU
CLASSIFIED
Flagg Township Assessor's Office is seeking an assista responsible for administrative duties and assisting the publi Specific responsibilities include internal and external custome service; data entry; maintaining database ; scanning; copying; e mailing; producing invoices; preparing various types do cuments and reports; filing; phone duties; fulfilling informatio requests; and performing other duties as assigne d.
Requirements: Qualified candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent and minimum three years' experience in office environment; have excellent computer and math skills; b proficient in Microsoft Office; demonstrate abilities to naviga computer programs with agility; ability to operate general offi equipment; superior attention to detail; strong customer servic skills; and regular, consistent presence at work site.
Plea se sub mit resume by October 29, 202 5, to: assessor@flaggtownship.org
ZOOM IN ON A BUYER ZOOM IN ON A BUYER
GROVE GARAGE SALES
Franklin Grove Oct. 24 & 25 Fri 8-4 Sat 8-1+
Presbyterian Church basement
106 S. Walnut
Fall and Winter
Men's , women's, kids' clothin g (many name brands, man y with tags, lots of women's XL and 3X)
Coats, boots, shoes, belts, scarves, jewelry, etc.
Household, Ch ristmas décor, books, 2 ceiling fans, glider,Crosley radio/turntable/CD play er, storage totes and much more
Notice o Self Storage Sale
Please take notice
Hub City Self Storage locat ed at 961 S 7th Street
Rochelle, IL 61068
intends to hold an Auction of storage units listed below to enforce its privilege against the following parties at the facility for default of payment of Rent The sale will occur as an online auction via www Storagetreasures. com closing on 11/06/2025 at 10:30AM
Cynthia Childress #244
Farrah Cary #100
Christina SmithEspitia #214
Jordan Myers #236
Adam Brazee #337
Rochelle Municipal Utilities, Ogle County, Illinois will receive sealed bids for:
Ri tchi e to C enterpoi nt 34.5kV Line Steel Pole Pr ocuremen t until 2:00 p.m. local time on November 6, 2025, at the City of Rochelle, 420 N 6th Street, Rochelle, IL 61068.The plans and specifications are on file with the said City of Rochelle for viewing purposes only.
Copies of the documents may be acquired from BHMG Engineers, Inc., 9735 Landmark Parkway Suite 110A, St. Louis, Missouri 63127, Consulting Engineers for the said Board. Please email Amy Wooldridge, AWooldridge@bhmg.com with request. Bids shall be received for the aforementioned items.
A certified check or bank draft on a responsible, solvent bank, or a satisfactory bid bond executed by the bidder and an acceptable surety company, payable to the City of Rochelle, John Bearrows, Mayor or Government Bonds or cash in the amount of not less than five percent (5%) of bid, shall be submitted with each bid
The bid shall be marked to identify bid package contents, reference specification 2200 K001.
The successful bidder will be required to:
• Register as a bidder for this project
• Furnish in duplicate the following executed documents:
• Non-Collusion Affidavit
• Bid Form
• Bid Bond, Certified Check or Money Order
• And any other documents as required by the specifications
No bid shall be withdrawn after the opening of bids without the consent of the Utility for a period of sixty (60) days after the scheduled time of closing bids.
Joseph Powell #239
This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. Oct. 19, 26, 2025
No bid shall be withdrawn after the opening of bids without the consent of the Utility for a period of sixty (60) days after the scheduled time of closing bids.The said City of Rochelle reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any informalities in bidding, and to determine and accept the bid most advantageous to the Utility.
Date: October 17, 2025
City of Rochelle, Illinois John Bea rrows, Mayor
October 19, 26, November 2, 2025
FRANKLIN
Annu al Treas ure r Report – fiscal Year 2024-2025
Total Reven ues
$1,289,745.25: Blum Grant $20,554.61, Building Permits $5,130.75, Cannabis Tax
$1,519.55, Change in Market Value NB&T $66,645.10, Code Enforcement Fines $750.00, Debt Service Fees $138,842.54, Donations $24,169.20, Franchise Licenses $7,641.69, Gain/Loss on Pricing Stocks
$9,123.99, Interest Income $15,291.67, Interfund Operating Transfer $10,000.00, Investment Income LPL
$8,516.24, Library Card Fees $440.00, Library Fees- Copy/Fax $678.95, Liquor Licenses $5,750.00, Lot Sales $9,675.00, Miscellaneous Income $31,115.53, Motor Fuel Tax $43,689.89, Other Fi nes $750.00, Other Grant $22,089.37, Other Licenses $825.00, Penalti es $5,491.78, Penal ty Assessments $2,375.65, Proceeds - Dividends $50,854.49, Prope rty Tax $17,863.00, Property Tax - General $106,705.26, Propert y Tax - Police $13,312.38, Rental Income $7,185.00, Replacement Tax $16,713.02, Road & B ridge Tax
$12,538.57, Sales Tax - Use Tax $83,248.66, Sewer Charges $73,599.93, State Grant $1,436.00, State Income Tax $168,068.63, Video Gaming Licenses $5,375.00, Video Gaming Tax $32,243.06, Water Sales $105,111.07
Total Compensation $ 236,925.45: UNDER $25,000.00...Arroyo, Janet; Cardot, Arthur N; Chapman; David, Coffman, Denise D; Devoney, Christiana; Ellis, Charles; Henert, Justin T; Henert, Tim N; Holder, Martha; Kohl ert, James J; Kohlert, Jill ; Kraft Toole, Kim R; Larson, Jeffrey; Larson, Susan M; Paul, Suza nne; Rueff, Carson; Stauffer, Farrel D; Van Dam, Dorthy S; Warner, Khristy D; Young, Monetta; Young, Rodney Betw een
$25,000.00 and $49,999.99...Garrison, S tev en; Koks, Catherine G; Munroe, Mason
Total Vendor Payments $704,334.48: 42 Tech Solutions $6,582.99, Ace Hardware $23,370.97, Adam Lanning $10,6 00.00, Ashton Auto Repair $2,202.13, Baker & Taylor $6,595.80, Barkau Automotive $3,200.00, Blackhawk Hills RC & D $761.11, Bonnell Industries Inc $5,022.28, Card Services $17,375.37, Cargill Carriage Rides LLC $700.00, Casey's Business Mastercard $6,068.81, Caspers Home Inspection LLC $10,800.00, Catherine Koks $12,853.21, Centr al Bank $32,560.65, City Of Rochelle $1,111.00, CivicPlus LLC $16,535.30, Com Ed $96,997.53, Comcast $7,922.16, Curran $1,082.86, David Balch $1,875.00, DEMCO $1,129 87, Don Elliott $775.00, Don Weyh $890.00, Doug Ball $600.00, Enrique Hernandez $1,300.00, Fehr Graham $7,942.14, Ferguson Waterworks #2 516 $7,092.26, Fischers, Inc $1,518.21, Hagemann Horticulture LLC $3,958.23, Hawkins, Inc $2,618.16, Helm Serv ice $16,422.76, Hill's Electric Motor Service, Inc $2,790.72, IL Director Of Employment Security $7,606.28, Illinois Environmen tal Protection Agency $7,124.74, Illinois EPA $2,500.00, Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund $16,103.87, Interna l Reven ue Service $16,209.82, Jay wil Software Development Inc $638.00, Kids Reference Co. Inc $642.77, Lee County Collector $2,370.40, Lee County Sheriff Department $4,506.00, Lee County Treasurer/Collector $49,566.00, LOCiS $5,037.25, Men ards - Sterling $5,645.06, MenardsSycamore $2 ,584.66, Mike Elvin $1,115.00, Mills & Petrie Memorial Library & Gymnasium $1,761 .10, MSA $14,184.00, National Wash Authority, LLC dba Midwest $7,900.00, Newkirk & Associa tes Inc $15,200.00, Nicor Gas $10,120.09, Northern Illinois Disposal SVCS $59,131.55, Penny Ellis $700.00, Postmaster $1,978.00, PrairieCat $4,561.50, Quentin Erdahl $775.00, RAMAKER & Associates $1,260.00, Reaver Plumbing & Heating $9,73 4.91, Rk Dixon $1,423.93, RMA $37,022.55, Rochelle News-Leader $635.25, Rochelle Vault Co $6,425.00, Ryan Rod $840 .00, Sauk Valley College Foundation $2,000.00, Schmitt Plumbing & Heating $22,949.71, Sherwin-Williams $775.66, Steve Garrison $10,404.83, Tess, Arnquist & Wilt LLC $9,797.65, Test Inc $4,957.00, TJS Exca vating Inc $2,500.00, US Cellular $1,824.06, USA Blue Book $1,808.28, Viking Chemical Company $10,644.43, Wel ch Brothers, Inc $699.00, Willett Hofmann & Associa tes $9,104.50, Xerox Financia l Ser vi ces $1,306.91, All other Disbursements Less Than 600.00 $19,005.20
I, Catherine G. Koks, certi fy that the above is a true copy of the Annual
April 30, 2025. This report was
to the Village Board of Trustees October
Subscribed and sworn to this 13th day of October , 2025 Catherine G. Koks, RMC - Vill age Clerk, Village of Ashton October 17, 19, 2025
IHSA playoff plan: Expand & regional schedules
Football playoff field would explode to 384 teams
By STEVE SOUCIE ssoucie@shawmedia.com
Roxana High School has authored a proposal to the Illinois High School Association that would dramatically alter several things about the high school football season.
The most significant change to current operations would be the expansion of the IHSA playoffs from the current structure of 256 qualifiers and increasing them to 384 total qualifiers. 48 teams would qualify for each classification. In Class 7A and 8A, the top 16 seeds would receive a firstround bye. In Class 1A through Class 6A, the top eight seeds in both the north and south brackets would receive an opening round bye.
“We started to survey and we started to get a sense that coaches and administrators wanted change,” Roxana athletic director Mark Briggs said. “We kept getting feedback that was moving us toward playoff expansion. And we tried to figure out how to make it work within the IHSA calendar. We were trying to hit all the functionality of how this football proposal could be applied to where it would strengthen football. Not to make it about conferences versus regionals, but how is it also impacting other sports at each individual school.
“Because a majority of these decisions in every community are driven by high school football.”
Qualification for the playoffs would still be in the same structure as is done currently. Teams that win the most games would be placed on the bracket first and seeded accordingly by playoff points. Using results from the 2024 season as a guide, all teams that won three or more regular-season games would qualify in this format. In addition, the top 23 teams with two wins (sorted by playoff points) would need to be added to the field to fill out a full 384-team field.
All current systems, such as multiplier application/waivers, success formulas, and playing up opportunities, would be applied to the calculations for classifying teams.
The changes don’t stop at the potential playoff expansion. The proposal also suggests applying a “flex regional” system for scheduling. The proposal states: “The Flexed Regional Model restructures IHSA football into regionals of at least six
lOswego East’s Jasiah Watson (right) fends off Yorkville’s Dillon Viscogliosi (left) during a football game last Friday in Oswego. Both programs are playoff-bound this season, but an IHSA proposal by Roxana High School could lead to playoff expansion as well as a new regional scheduling model.
teams, determined by geographic proximity and enrollment similarity. The system provides flexibility at enrollment boundaries, expands the playoffs, and standardizes scheduling across the state while respecting traditional rivalries.”
The basic principle of the Flex Regional Model works like this. All playoff-eligible teams will be sorted via the enrollment that is to be used for the football program. They will then be divided equally into eight classifications, which would become the most likely group of teams that will be divided into regionals.
However, the 25 smallest teams in each classification group could be flexed into a smaller classification if there is a better geographic fit in one of the regionals for them and a need for them to fill.
The same principle would also be applied to the 25 largest teams in each classification group, as they could be flexed into a larger classification if there is a better geographic fit and a need for them to fill.
Under no circumstances would a team be moved more than one class in any direction.
“Our experience over the past year, I think, has opened our eyes to some of the experiences that other schools throughout the state have faced in recent years,” Roxana assistant principal Adam Miller said. “And as we became aware of that kind of undercurrent throughout the entire state, we were trying to think about how can we not only help fix this for Roxana, but what could we maybe do to help schools across the state to bring about
district, and a team’s enrollment number, multiplier status would be applicable for a two year period, and any team that elects to play up also would be doing so for a two-year period.
With the additional round of playoffs this season will be extended for one more week, but the calendar will actually be backed up.
The season will still conclude with the state championship being held on Thanksgiving Weekend, but with one more week of playoffs being needed, the postseason will begin in mid-October.
The season’s first regular-season game will be held a week earlier in August, and the proposal is to eliminate the option of a “Week 0” scrimmage game, as that would be the new Week 1 of the high school football season.
lasting change?”
Exceptions to these rules would only be applied in extreme geographical situations, and in those cases, teams might be placed in a regional with more than six teams. Preliminary “mock-ups” of the regionals will be provided by the proposal committee over the next few weeks.
Chicago Public League schools, which currently make up 56 schools of the playoff-eligible school list and 24 non-eligible programs, would be exempt from the regional format and allowed to keep their current structure. The CPL would continue to keep control of deciding which of its programs would be eligible for playoff consideration.
Regional games for six-team groupings would be played in Weeks 4 through 8, and non-regional games would be played in Weeks 1-3 and Week 9.
Eight team groups would have seven regional games (Weeks 2 through 8) and non-regional games in Weeks 1 and 9, while seven team groups would follow a similar protocol with a neighboring seven team district providing a crossover game option to allow no team to be on a bye week.
Schools would retain autonomy of their non-regional game schedules to allow for the ability of schools to still schedule rivalry games with programs that might not be in the same direct regions or from different classification groups.
All regional groupings would be for a two-year period (allowing a home and home series) for each of the teams in each
Opening day practices would also be moved up three days to the previous Wednesday; in the case of the 2026 calendar, opening day would be Aug. 5. This would allow for a full 12-day acclimatization period and would allow the sport to be in concert with SMAC safety guidelines for football.
This proposal must be approved by the IHSA’s legislative council before being placed on an all-school ballot for consideration to have the proposal applied to the sport. That vote is typically resolved in mid-December.
If approved, the policy would go into effect for the 2026 season with official regional recommendations expected to be provided in February or March by a Flex Committee working with the IHSA. The committee will consist of representatives from throughout the state and across all classifications and will include current athletic directors, IHSA staff, and select media.
While Roxana is the school at the top of the proposal, Miller is quick to point out that a large cross-section of schools from across the enrollment spectrum are in support of the proposal.
“This is proposed by Roxana,” Miller said. “But this is not Roxana’s proposal. This has been collaborative with people from around the state: Football coaches, school representatives, athletic trainers.
“We were looking to try to address some things. High school football in Illinois is one of the best things going. It’s important in communities, but there are things that are challenging, including the difficulties in scheduling and the drive for five of making the playoffs. We’ve tried to work collaboratively with people to try to address those questions.”
Gary E Duncan Sr. for Shaw Local News Network
Rochelle JV volleyball team wins Lady Hub invitational
SHAW LOCAL NEWS NETWORK contact@shawmedia.com
Rochelle hosted the Lady Hub sophomore Invite on Oct. 11 with six teams attending. Rochelle JV took first place, beating Oregon in three sets, Rock Falls in two sets, Genoa-Kingston in three sets and Sterling in three sets.
Team members are Preslee Sanders, Kenna Beck, Georgia Schabacker, Arabella Nambo, Gianna Olguin, Emma Metzger, Madison Ludwig, Alivia Law, Coach Lindsay Suess, Team Manager Maggie Suneson, Maggie Louis, Evelyn Garcia, Vanessa Ortiz, Morgan DeLille, Mackenzie Bybee and Liby Belmonte.
Rochelle’s Emori Mickley passes the ball during an Oct. 2 match with
ROCHELLE NEWS LEADER HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS ROUNDUP
Rochelle volleyball beats Sycamore, falls to Kaneland
By KEVIN NEWBERRY knewberry@shawmedia.com
Volleyball
Rochelle 2, Sycamore 1 (11-25, 25-22, 25-20): At Rochelle on Oct. 9, the Hubs battled back for a thrilling win over Sycamore after dropping the first set.
Jillian Bruns led the way with eight kills and two aces.
Meredith Bruns added three kills, 14 assists and eight digs.
Emori Mickley had 22 digs in the win.
Kaneland 2, Rochelle 0 (25-21, 25-15): At Maple Park on Oct. 14, the Knights proved to be too much for the visiting Hubs.
Jillian Bruns had nine kills and six digs in the loss and Meredith Bruns had six kills, 10 assists and eight digs.
Photo provided by Marcy DeLille
La Salle-Peru.
Photo provided by Marcy DeLille
Rochelle hosted the Lady Hub sophomore Invite on Saturday, Oct. 11, with six teams competing. Rochelle JV took first place beating Oregon, Rock Falls, Genoa-Kingston and Sterling.
Rochelle, Ruiz beat Ottawa
Here are photos of Rochelle soccer’s 4-3 win over Ottawa on Oct. 13. Antonio Ruiz scored all four goals in the win.
Photos provided by Marcy DeLille
TOP LEFT: Rochelle’s Antonio Ruiz kicks the ball during a game with Ottawa. TOP RIGHT: Rochelle’s Saul Avila (7) kicks the ball ahead during a game with Ottawa. ABOVE: Rochelle’s Jonathan Sanchez Ponce (26) works around an Ottawa defender. LEFT: Rochelle players celebrate a goal during their game with Ottawa.
SPORTS
UPCOMING ROCHELLE FOOTBALL GAMES
Oct. 24: Home vs. Waterloo, 6 p.m.
Oct. 25: IHSA Playoff Pairings are announced
FOUR OFF THE FOOT
Rochelle’s Antonio Ruiz scored four goals in the Hubs’ 4-3 win over Ottawa / 31
Rochelle’s Antonio Ruiz (10) kicks the ball surrounded by the Ottawa defense during the Hubs’ 4-3 match victory, Oct. 13, in Rochelle.
