IN THIS WEEK’S EDITION COALER SPORTS $1.00 Partners honor Courant readers Vol. 119, Issue 43 1 section • 16 pages top volunteer pickdream team Not over 75% advertising www.coalcitycourant.com

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2020 | A FREE PRESS NEWSPAPER Superintendent search moving forward

BY ANN GILL Should Exelon proceed with the “I THINK IT’S GOING TO BE A year and implement it with the 2022- are a lot of options for that, but those EDITOR intended closure of the Dresden 2023 school year, the first without are decisions that must be made by Generating Station in November TOUGH SITUATION FOR Bugg as the district’s leader. the seven-member board. The Unit 1 Board of Education 2021, the school district’s tax base will SOMEBODY TO BE HANDED THIS This is something that has the Under the leadership of presi- has made finding a superintendent to significantly shift. MENU AND FOR YOU TO SAY, superintendent concerned. dent Ken P. Miller, the Board of succeed Dr. Kent Bugg a priority. Property taxes paid by the power “You’re going to bring someone Education has been discussing the Bugg has 20 months left on his generator account for about 60% or ‘ALRIGHT THESE ARE THE THINGS new in the 22-23 school year that is various steps to finding a superin- final contract. While that might seem $16 million of the school district’s YOU HAVE TO DO.’ IF THERE IS A going to have to implement a plan tendent and has teamed with the like a considerable amount of time to more than $30 million budget. WAY TO EASE THAT TRANSITION that they have no say in, no involve- Illinois Association of School Boards some, the Board of Education under- The significant loss of tax dollars ment in. I think that is going to be [IASB] to initiate the process. stands it may take a while to find the can not be fully made up on the backs FOR SOMEONE NEW, I THINK IT tough and I think the board is going Late last month, the board held a right person for the job— although of local taxpayers, nor a single new WOULD BE IMPORTANT FOR THE to have to think about that process discussion with an IASB representa- what makes a person right for the job industry. Therefore, cuts will be forth- BOARD TO CONSIDER.” given the landscape we are or could tive on the development of a superin- has yet to be defined. coming. be in,” Bugg said. tendent search timeline. The process The qualities and skill set neces- Bugg is working with local lead- “I think it’s going to be a tough of putting that profile together will sary for a successful tenure in the ers on efforts to keep the plant open, DR. KENT BUGG situation for somebody to be handed take a couple of months to complete. superintendent’s post may not be the but should it shutdown efforts are UNIT 1 SUPERINTENDENT this menu and for you to say, ‘alright Miller polled his colleagues to same as it was a year ago or even a being made to ensure community these are the things you have to do.’ If determine if the process should begin couple of months ago. safeguards are in place. The superin- nothing is guaranteed. there is a way to ease that transition immediately or if they were comfort- “If Dresden closes this job is tendent is working on a proposal that With so many unknowns the for someone new, I think it would be able pushing the superintendent much different than it was two would ramp down the annual tax pay- Board of Education has directed its important for the board to consider,” search off a year. months ago,” Bugg told the Board of ments. However, as the community finance groups to put a financial plan Bugg said. “For me, I think we should start Education at its meeting this month. has learned in the past few months, in place during the 2021-2022 school The superintendent said there SEE SEARCH, PAGE 2 Activities for elementary kids Grundy County assessment data rolled out STAFF REPORT

Assessment notices started arriving in mailboxes last week, and listings posted in local newspapers displayed the assessed values of the 27,000 parcels that make up Grundy County. The assessed value of the county is up $100,000 million to $2.5 billion, according to County Board Chairman Chris Balkema. Grundy County’s 2020 assessment data has been released by the county assessor’s office about seven weeks earlier than during 2019. Balkema reports great improvements have been made in the process, including the utilization of the CIC tax software pro- gram the county began implementing about two years ago. Last year was a quadrennial assessment year for the county, a time when every property is looked at and compared to based on sales ratios from the previous three years to determine a mar- ket value. The process begins at a county level and moves down to township section and if necessary neighborhood to ensure all properties are assessed the state required level of 33.3% of mar- ket value. In 2019 the process was completed manually within the county assessor’s office on 26,260 parcels. Since taking over the department this summer, the county’s new assessor integrated the tax software program to streamline the work within the office, as well as for property owners. Working with the directors in the county’s technology and geographic information systems departments, assessor Deb Ritke has pushed out a considerable amount of property data that is available through the county assessor, treasurer and GIS Courtesy photo websites. COAL CITY ELEMENTARY School students arrived tested out the new activity trail on Monday morning. After the students left for And, for the first time the assessor’s office will be accepting the day on Friday, Oct. 16, faculty and staff headed outside to create a colorful trail full of activities through the school courtyard. assessment complaints electronically. The concept of creating a fun, outdoor activity for students to utilize during the school day was the idea of elementary school art Property owners can now file a property tax appeal and instructor Julie Brncich. Under her guidance, school staff painted various activities on the sidewalk including a balance beam, lilly upload related documents to the assessor’s office with the click pads to squat on, hurdles to jump, ants to march with and a snake to sidestep on. Students discovered the new trail when the of a button, without a visit to the county courthouse. Of course, arrived for class on Monday and had an opportunity to test it out during their physical education classes. residents can still file in person, but the new system is in place for those who choose to use it.

SEE ASSESSMENTS, PAGE 2 Concrete crushing can continue

BY ANN GILL tially granted a conditional use permit The concrete—legally conforming times the crushing machine was “MUCH LIKE THE PAST EDITOR in 2017 for the hauling, storing and to state environmental standards— allowed to operate within a maximum APPROVAL, THE CURRENT processing of recycled concrete at 235 hauled to and processed at the site is of three seasons. CONDITIONAL USE THAT John Trotter was given the go E. Oak St. being used to establish base elevation Last month, Trotter petitioned the ahead to carry on with his recycled Trotter had previously been grant- and to date, about have the site has village for an extension of the permit HAD BEEN RECOMMENDED concrete crushing operation. ed a temporary permit to store con- reached its topographical height of with some modifications, namely the FOR ADOPTION CONTAINS An extension of an industrial con- crete waste on the site following the 571-feet above sea level. length of the season. A NUMBER OF ditional use permit was unanimously 2015 tornado, but it had expired when “Much like the past approval, the The extension approved still limits approved by the Coal City Village Board he approached the board for a condi- current conditional use that had been the operation to three crushing sea- LIMITATIONS IN LIGHT OF last week, a decision based on a posi- tional use to continue the storage and recommended for adoption contains a sons, however it increases the number THE EXTENSION FOR THE tive recommendation from the town’s processing of the materials. number of limitations in light of the of processing days. CRUSHING OF MATERIALS Planning and Zoning Board. The permit was granted to allow extension for the crushing of materials Per the terms, Trotter can crush It was after considerable discus- Trotter to prepare the property for sale. at this location,” said Village materials six days a week between AT THIS LOCATION.” sion and a demonstration of the crush- He acquired the industrial site after a Administrator Matt Fritz. December 1 and April 15, with Monday ing equipment that Trotter operating as fire destroyed the massive warehouse The original permit came with MATT FRITZ Paper Mill Investments, LLC was ini- facility. conditions including the days and SEE CRUSHING, PAGE 2 VILLAGE ADMINISTRATOR Audit finds village finances in order

BY ANN GILL provides the Village Board with reserves reported within the reflects its investment in capi- Coal City’s governmental funds unassigned fund balance for EDITOR an overview of the audit con- village’s financial system,” said tal assets that include land, reported combined ending the general fund was $883,145 ducted by his staff at the close Matt Fritz, Coal City’s village buildings, machinery and fund balances of $2,228,934, a or 24% of general fund expen- An audit of the village of of the town’s fiscal year—April administrator. equipment; less outstanding decrease of $604,981 in com- ditures.” 30. According to Zabel, the debt related to those assets. parison with the prior year. Coal City’s finances has once SEE AUDIT, PAGE 2 again found them in order. “The Village Board annu- village’s net position increased He further informed the Approximately 29% of this total “We are issuing a clean ally receives an audit to be by $319,288 in fiscal year 2020, board the town’s total assets amount, $654,917, is available opinion, no misappropriations assured the finances of the vil- for a net position of $45.2 mil- decreased by $839,414, with a for spending at the govern- or glowing concerns,” said lage are being expended lion. governmental net position ment’s discretion [unrestrict- Brian Zabel, the town’s long- according to the annual budg- In his report, Zabel said increase of $385,025. ed, unassigned fund bal- term auditor. et plan and the cash on hand the largest portion of the vil- “As of the close of the cur- ance],” Zabel reported. “At the As he does each fall, Zabel balances against the fund lage’s net position—99%— rent fiscal year, the village of end of the current fiscal year, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 2 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM

wanting to be a part of a Search process with all of this, but do Coal City posts 78.9% Census response you really want somebody that that profile process and do the is in the heart of the commu- surveys of the community nity, in the heart of the organi- BY ANN GILL in and they have done the cal- of a drain at the corner of endar year. because we are trying to zation and out there?” EDITOR culations we will get a report to Broadway and Gordon Avenue. • Trustee Dan Greggain answer the question of what Emerson questioned. see what demographics He added that a plan is announced the village’s Public are the characteristics we are “You don’t bring people in The counting is complete, changed, but I don’t expect being put in place for the long Health and Safety Committee looking for in the next super- that have been in that compa- the U.S. Census Bureau has that in the near future,” term care of the planters that will hold a virtual meeting at 5 intendent,” said Shawn ny for 30 years or 20 years or 5 finished collecting responses Noffsinger said, thanking line the roadway. p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 21. Hamilton, the board’s vice years. You bring people in for 2020 Census. those who participated in the • Fritz told trustees he is • On the topic of virtual president. from off the street who say this The decennial census count. currently in the process of put- meetings, Trustee Tim Bradley, What’s best for the district is what we have to do,” the closed Oct. 15. Although it will The census has been ting together an Illinois who conducted the meeting in moving forward is what the board member said. still be some time before local counting the country’s popula- Transportation Enhancement the absence of the mayor, board is seeking to find out. Is Board member Quint communities receive relevant tion every 10 years since 1790. Program [ITEP] grant for addi- noted there was discussion at that someone internal with Harmon shared similar data including population The data collected is used to tional beautification along the last board meeting about ties to the district and com- thoughts, saying the reality of counts, they do know the per- determine, among other Broadway. getting back to in-person munity or someone from out- someone internally being the centage of residents who things, the number of seats in • Chief Tom Best reported meetings and that is being side the area with no direct one forced to make cuts and responded to the once a the U.S. House of the department’s new officer considered. connection to the faculty, staff hand down difficult direc- decade questionnaire. Representatives and to draw Brian Pustz has reported to the However the most recent and community that has no tions, “it’s not going to be pret- According to information congressional and state leg- Police Training Institute [PTI] took place via Zoom. concerns with making cuts ty, it’s just reality.” provided by the Coal City islative districts. It allows at the University of Illinois — “As most of you know, I got and saying no. Overall, the board was Village Clerk Pam Noffsinger, determines how billions in Urbana-Champaign campus COVID last week, so thank you If one were to ask board unanimous in its decision to 99.9% of Illinois residents and federal funding is distributed and began his studies on Oct. for bearing with us for another member Jeff Emerson, the get the process started, defer- 76.4% of Grundy County to programs like Medicaid, 11. During the training, offi- round of meetings from response would be, in his own ring any further discussion on responded to the 2020 Census. block grants and nutrition cers from the department will home,” Bradley said. words, “a spin in a different qualifications and hiring to a On a local level, the clerk assistance programs. be made available to assist him • Trustees approved pur- way.” future meeting. reports as of Oct. 14, 78.9% of In other matters from the with the training as necessary. chase orders totaling “You might want some- Although there will be Coal City residents responded Oct. 14 virtual meeting of the • The board was informed $50,933.54. Included in the one that doesn’t have a tie to plenty of discussion ahead on to the survey, with 76.9% of Coal City Village Board: the North Central Illinois bills was a $2,164.69 payment Ken Miller, Jeff Emerson or what skills are being sought in Carbon Hill residents and • At the recommendation Council of Governments for flags, $275 for a advertise- the president of the teachers the district’s next leader, board 74.7% of Diamond households of the village engineer, the [NCICG] has started accepting ment in the high school year- union. Someone with no ties members appear to agree with completing the questionnaire. Village Board approved pay- applications for the housing book, $100 to Grundy County that puts his head down at Bugg that under the current Noffsinger told the village ments totaling $200,582.36 to rehab program and has identi- in animal control fees and night and it’s just part of the circumstances the timing of last week that some enumera- D Construction for its work on fied a few households that that $2,740.80 to seal coat two job,” Emerson said. selecting his successor is tions and self-responses are the annual street and alley qualify for the grant program. parking lots. “I know we talk about important for the organization still yet to be calculated. The improvements. Additional verifications The next meeting of the building relationships and to understand. Census Bureau states the final • Administrator Matt Fritz must be completed, as well as Village Board is scheduled for 7 count will include responses reported there are still a few inspections. p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 28. It received by Oct. 22 so long as items remaining to be com- The administrator antici- has not yet been announced if they are postmarked by Oct. pleted as part of the South pates NCICG will have a rec- the board will continue with 15. Broadway reconstruction proj- ommendation for the village to virtual meetings or resume in- Audit “Once everything comes ect, including a the installation consider by the end of the cal- person gatherings.

He further noted revenues to the general fund were $8.5 million this includes dollars coming in to the water and sewer and special revenue funds. With expenditures of $7.7 million, this resulted in a change in position of just over $300,000. The Grundy County records new COVID-19 cases village ended the year with a cash position of $3 million. The town’s total liabilities at year end were $16 million and includes an underfunded police pension of $5.9 million which is STAFF REPORT age 20, 43 in the 20-39 age increase in its test positivity rate is important because if the a decrease in liability from the prior year. range, 49 amongst those age rate from 6% to 6.5%, however region reaches 8% for three “As far as things to point out the general fund did end up The Grundy County 40-59, 25 cases among those it remained under the 8% tar- consecutive days, additional down for the year from the $1.2 million that we had set as a Health Department reports 74 age 60-79 and two individuals get. The state further reports restrictions will be imposed threshold its fund balance in the $800,000 range now and all new cases of COVID-19 have age 80 and older. 679 tests were administered to upon the region through the other funds, with exception of capital project are positive and I been identified in the county In it’s weekly report, the county residents in that time state of Illinois. think in good position,” Zabel said. bringing the total number of Illinois Department of Public period. Two of the 20 counties that Based on the village’s current financial picture, Fritz said, infections in the past seven Health [IDPH] is reporting IDPH updates the data make up the North Central “the largest matter confronting the board is its current cash months to 823 persons. Grundy County is meeting daily and residents can visit its Region are on the state’s most position in light of remaining in wait for matching capital funds The new cases were COVID-19 metrics in all but website for updated informa- recent warning list. to offset the expenditures for the South Broadway reconstruc- reported to the health depart- one category—new cases per tion. Neighboring Will County was tion project in light of delayed general fund receipts in the cur- ment between Oct. 9 and Oct. 100,000—thus the county On a regional level, also named to the list and new rent fiscal year due to property taxes having gone out later than 16. And, with these new cases, remains at the blue level for a Grundy County is part of the mitigations are going into planned.” the health department reports third consecutive week. North-Central Region that has effect in Will and Kankakee Zabel credited Fritz and village treasurer Kristi Wickiser for it is now following 105 people The data is based on had a seemingly stable positiv- counties this week. their work in tracking and reporting the town’s finances. who are currently ill and in iso- COVID-19 activity in the coun- ity rate. Testing is available lation, and each of their close ty for the period of Oct. 4-10. As of Oct. 12, the region through local hospital systems, contacts. During that time the state was showing a positivity rate of and protocol at each location According to local health reports 126 new cases per 5.6%, the rate on Oct. 5 and is subject to change based on department data, so far this 100,000 residents, this metric 5.4% on Sept. 21. availability of resources. month—Oct. 1-15—there have has been at warning level for To date, the lowest pub- Mobile testing units organized been 140 individuals test posi- the past 11 weeks, as it is trig- lished rate for the North- by IDPH are also available tive for the virus. By age group gered when the number of Central Region was 2.5% on throughout the region and there have been 21 cases cases exceeds 50 per 100,000. June 26. The highest published locations can be found on the reported in individuals under The county did see an rate was 7.7% on Sept. 2. This IDPH website at dph.gov

for the grade elevation and once that is cerns regarding the release of particulates established, if within the three allowable in the air and the additional noise pollu- Crushing seasons, the operation must conclude. tion so close to the intermediate school. to Friday operations from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Storage of materials can remain on “The Planning and Zoning Board dis- and Saturdays 8 a.m. to noon. the site for up to five years, and Trotter cussed these items and found the peti- The first season will begin Dec. 1 and said since the material is being laid as tioner to have addressed such concerns end April 15, 2021. crushed there should be no large piles of and found the limited timeline for the No more than 25% of the material materials left on site. requested operation to assist with the recycled onsite during the prior crushing None of the adjacent property own- concerns brought forward,” Fritz shared season may leave the site. The remaining ers spoke concerning the request, howev- with village trustees. materials processed on site must be used er one village resident did address the Planning and Zoning Board with con-

the deadline to submit a com- a timely fashion. payments due in June and Assessments plaint—electronically, by mail This year bills were a cou- August. or in-person— is by close of ple of months behind, result- Questions related to the “I hope everyone notices the business day [4:30 p.m.] ing in taxpayers making back- 2020 assessments and appeals the immensity of being able to on Monday, Nov. 16. to-back payments and delay- should be directed to the file your tax complaint on line. Ritke said the electronic ing payments to the various assessors office at 815-941- I think that puts us in rare air. filing will streamline the taxing districts. 3269. I don’t think there are a lot of process for property owners Traditionally, tax bills are other counties out there doing and the Board of Review. issued in May and July with it, but I think the timing is fan- As a result of the pandem- tastic especially this year due ic, the Board of Review will not to COVID,” said county board be holding interactive hear- member Mike Onorato, who ings this year, so decisions will serves as chairman of the be based on the evidence sub- county’s Elections, Tax and mitted with the appeal. Technology Committee and Onorato tentatively Board of Review. expects the Board of Review to Based on the various have its work completed by changes put in place over the the end of the calendar year. past few month, Onorato said Ritke is now working on property owners now have the county abstracts and calculat- ability to do a lot of their ing the equalized assessed val- property tax compliant ues for each of the county’s research from a home com- taxing districts. puter. Based on the changes “I’m super excited. This being made within the office, has never been done before, Ritke is confident this will so kudos for bringing us into result in the time line going the new age,” Onorato told forward to get back on track, Ritke during a recent commit- meaning tax bills will go out in tee meeting. Ritke reports all relevant property data and forms were updated through her office weekly subscription newspapers named The Free prior to publishing the 2020 Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal and The Coal City Courant, and an advertising shopper assessment notices on Oct. known as the Prairie Shopper. 15. With the 2020 assessment Advertising and Business Offices: data released, Ritke called on • 111 South Water St., Wilmington, IL 60481 the public to open their mail (815) 476-7966; Fax: (815) 476-7002 and take a look at their assess- • 271 South Broadway, Coal City, IL 60416 ment, their market value and (815) 634-0315; Fax: (815) 476-7002 compare that to their records from the past two years. Deadlines for the Prairie Shopper “Go on-line and review The Coal City Courant Display Advertising: Thursday, 2 p.m. the property information that USPS No. 120-060 Classified & Public Notices: Thursday 5 p.m. is available. The web portal for Published weekly, 52 times a year, on Grundy County has updated Wednesdays by Deadline for The Free Press Advocate, G-W COMMUNICATIONS, INC., Braidwood Journal and Coal City Courant information for the parcels News and Advertising: Monday, noon and there will be property 271 S. Broadway St., P.O. Box 215 Coal City, IL 60416 record cards also available Periodicals postage paid at Coal City, Illinois E-mail: News & News Photos: [email protected] through our GIS system so it Ads & Artwork: [email protected] will be pretty easy for [people] Postmaster: Send address changes to: ©2019 All news, photographs and advertising mate- to point and click at their Free Press Newspapers; P.O. Box 327; rial used in this publication are the property of G.W. comparable properties on the Wilmington, IL 60481 Communications, Inc. Use of the material without the con- map, so were happy about sent of G.W. Communications, Inc. is strictly prohibited. that,” Ritke said. Subscription rates: $40 Grundy & Will coun- Violators of this property right are subject to legal action. By state statue, property ties; $48 other Illinois counties and $54 out of state owners have 30 days to appeal Eric D. Fisher, publisher www.freepressnewspapers.com their assessment. Therefore, G.W. Communications, Inc publishes the Ann Gill, editor WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 3 A community’s cook retiring Prairie Partners name BY ERIC FISHER Volunteer of the Year PUBLISHER The Goose Lake Prairie Partners have It’s been a 28-year chal- selected Jan lenge of feeding tens of thou- Alexander as the sands of people but the flames Prairie Partners inside Marilyn’s Kitchen in Volunteer of the Year Braidwood are burning out. for 2020. Marilyn Lestina, owner of A resident of Marilyn’s Kitchen and the Oswego, Alexander renowned Lestina’s Catering, is joined the Prairie retiring. Her last hurrah will be Partners in 2010. serving Thanksgiving dinners During her first from her small commercial couple of years with kitchen on North Division the Prairie Partners Street. she was especially “It has been a very gratify- keen on demonstrat- ing, wonderful journey,” ing quilting during Lestina commented. “There the annual Cabin have been some wonderful Festivals. However, people we've dealt with over as the group experi- the years but the time is right enced low return on for me to retire.” the profits of serving While Marilyn admits sandwiches during there may have been other its festivals, they caterers who served fancier were looking for China and silverware at social ways to make a profit Courtesy photo events, her focus was always from the service. GOOSE LAKE PRAIRIE Partners 2020 on the food. Alexander Volunteer of the Year Jan Alexander. “The hot food was hot, stepped up and a cold food was cold, everything took a certification was made from scratch. I think class allowing her to cook at Cabin Festival and Prairie Day. She people appreciated that,” she found a grill that had been discarded, repaired it and delivered it said. to the park. Photo by Eric Fisher Lestina’s cooking went Instead of having to hire a cook with a grill, the Prairie from boiling point to a simmer SHE COOKS, HE CLEANS - Marilyn and George Lestina who have operated Marilyn’s Kitchen in Partners now enjoy grilling independence. Recently, the group 18 months ago when she Braidwood have retired from the catering business after nearly 28 years. Marilyn said it has gotten was gifted with a new grill and report they will continue to stopped catering weddings, physically and mentally harder each year to operate and the Covid-19 pandemic has greatly impacted achieve raising funds for education its visitors with the contri- business events, graduation her business. butions Alexander has willingly given to the park and the organ- and holiday parties. She ization that serves as the volunteer arm of the Goose Lake Prairie changed the name to Marilyn’s of learn as they went. It was a stride knowing they couldn't make—her signature rainbow State Natural Area [GLPSNA]. Kitchen preparing meals, The Prairie Partners report that when in the food tent, sweets and specialty foods on a time when she was influenced do anything about it and they Jell-O salad. by the French cooking of were going to have fun anyway. “It's very pretty. It actually Alexander’s presence brings camaraderie and laughter to make smaller scale. for a joyful day. It was at the time of a American cooking teacher and It just all went very well.” looks like a rainbow. People TV personality Julia Child. There were occasions just loved that. And that's the Alexander has also been an asset to the organizations proj- health scare that meant the ect planning. Her voice has been heard on many occasions with days of preparing wedding “Just watching her cook when she had to tell a client no one where people ask me how anything, that was such a big when it came to menu selec- to make it. Yes, it's super easy. thoughtful contributions to discussions, be it in a meeting or meals for as many as 700 were over the phone. over. So was the work schedule thing back in the day. She was tion. One couple picked three We got remarks on it all the the only one on TV doing that entrees, all beef. time. I had a groom give me As Volunteer of the Year for 2020, Alexander’s name has been of seven days a week almost added to the Honor Roll of volunteers recognized for their con- every week. at the time, so she was a great “I'm like, ‘I can't cook the best compliment. People inspiration.” them,’ and they're like, ‘why were pretty much done going tributions to the Goose Lake Prairie Partners, GLPSNA and the “My husband (George) Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The plaque of volun- said you know life's too short Yet, Marilyn soon learned not?’ I said because not every- through the buffet and he had her clients wanted many of the body can eat beef and not come back up. He said, ‘I've teers recognized for their contributions hangs in the GLPSNA so it was a big change for me at Visitors Center, 5010 N. Jugtown Rd., Morris. the time. It still wanted to cook same dishes. Favorites served everybody likes beef. ‘Well, we been waiting for this all day,’ so that’s when I downsized into at receptions became fried like beef.’ I had to guide them and I said ‘What get married?’ Marilyn’s Kitchen.” chicken, pulled pork, Italian on planning a meal that went and he said, ‘No, the rainbow Her love of cooking started beef sandwiches, mostaccioli well together. It makes the Jell-O.’” at an early age, more so to and a specialty, rainbow Jell-O whole meal better. Sure, I cared She said that’s what she’ll Library seeking Veterans pictures avoid having to wash dishes. salad. They were requested so if the whole meal was good.” miss most, the praise she got often that Marilyn need not Marilyn suggests brides from her customers. The sup- Growing up in a family with The Coal City Public Library District is currently working on seven siblings meant there follow a recipe. think twice before having an port, encouragement, enthusi- “I've always been kind of outdoor wedding, bad weather asm and loyalty made it the a Veterans Day tribute video to be shown on its Facebook page were a lot of dishes to do. and website on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. “If you did dinner, you good at figuring ingredients... I can ruin things in a hurry. most gratifying career she have very few recipes. I just Although there was one wed- could ever ask for. They would like to include pictures of any Carbon Hill, Coal didn't have to help with the City, Diamond and Goose Lake veterans whether they are alive dishes,” Marilyn said of the throw things together. Most of ding reception near Mazon “There will be some things my recipes are in my head. It that turned out perfectly. coming out of the kitchen in today or have passed. Riley house rule. “That seemed Pictures can be e-mailed to [email protected] or stop by the like a fair rule to me so I kinda drove the girls crazy “It was this time of year, it the future for the holidays but because it was hard for them to was fall, and these people had for now I’m going to relax and library at 85 N. Garfield Street in Coal City and they will scan the stepped right up when it came photo. Include the name, branch of service and years of service to cooking.” make something from start to decorated to the hilt. I mean, give my back, my feet and my finish without following a there were mums, corn stocks, brain a rest,” she concluded. if possible. Veterans are also welcome to come to the library and Her mother Hilda was a do a short video. wonderful baker but hated to recipe. I’m more of a throw it pumpkins...I mean anything cook, Marilyn said. Her older in, give it a taste and see what it you could possibly think of to sister Sandy (Boyd) did most of needs. They would end up make it look fall and very the cooking with Marilyn at her doing more of the prep work grand. I felt slightly intimidat- side. By age 12, with her moth- like chopping vegetables and ed because it was so grand. er’s encouragement, Marilyn getting things measured.” Once we served everything prepared her first Preparing for an event was everybody loved it, it was very Thanksgiving dinner. a full-time task that involved gratifying. The whole night, I “My mom really nurtured menu planning with clients, mean they even had fireworks, my love of cooking. She ordering supplies, trips to was just the neatest wedding.” helped, of course, but she left Joliet to multiple stores and As a caterer she rated the the planning of menus up to more. Three days out prep importance of the food very me. I’m thankful she allowed work would begin, continue on high. that at a young age as it turned day two and climax the day “For me, it's a 10 out of 10. into my career.” before. The morning of a wed- I had somebody when I first Marilyn knew cooking for ding were always hectic as she started say, ‘you know people 100 would be different than strived for freshness and the don't expect a good meal at a cooking for the family table so perfect temperature before wedding. It's either cold or she signed up for culinary arts transporting food to the venue. bland, things like that.’ I dis- at Joliet Junior College. During the early years agreed and took that to heart. I “I was very lucky to be able Marilyn and crew even baked think that's why we got so to learn a base of quality, quan- wedding cakes and desserts, popular because it was impor- tity cooking from JJC,” she both time consuming. After 10 tant to me. The food had to be said. “I've always loved to cook years her husband told her that good. So often people came and the program just had to go. back to the kitchen and said it enhanced that. My sister-in- “The bigger the party the was the best catered meal law also loved to cook so we more organization was need- they’d ever had. That kept me put together a catering service ed. The real skill became know- going,” Marilyn said. for fun and everything kind of ing how much to cook. You One item she never cut exploded from there.” never wanted to run out of corners on was butter. “Real Her partner soon took a food yet you couldn’t afford to butter is the only way to go. I new job so Marilyn bought her have a lot of leftovers. That was insist on that for all my out of the supplies they had a real challenge at first,” recipes. You have to start with purchased together. She and Lestina said. good ingredients and never George put up a shop on their She admits she had some skimp on the butter.” property and it took off from nightmare experiences early And the most useful tool there. on but soon got a grasp on in her kitchen was a good “I thought it was going to feeding a crowd. Most times sharp knife. be something to keep me out those nightmares were caused The worst part of catering of trouble and it just really took by other things. Like during was the cleanup. She hated it off and got very, very busy,” her biggest catering event and quickly assigned husband Marilyn commented. involving 700 guests. George as No. 1 dish washer. She was so busy her sisters It was an October wedding “I’d didn’t mind that much Linda (Razunas) and Sandy reception held at the American because I got to sample her were soon helping in the Legion Hall in Gardner with a cooking,” he quipped. “Yep, I kitchen. capacity of about 450. A large was her guinea pig for some “I couldn't have done any tent was connected to the recipes but I also turn away of this without them. They building to accommodate from some things I just can’t came on board and were with everyone. The reception start- eat anymore...like pulled pork. me practically the whole time ed and a wind storm rolled in, Give me a pork chop or pork until they retired. We started as blowing down the tent. loin any day, but please no a mom and pop operation but “It was rainy, cold and very more pulled pork.” before we knew it we had other windy and the overflow of peo- George has been around family involved. I had some ple quickly became an issue. It the kitchen long enough to great people working for me was extremely stressful for us know what’s cooking even if over the years.” because I'd never done that big he’s outdoor mowing the grass. Her timing was right as of a party. But everyone’s atti- “I know when she’s mak- brides called often in need of a tude was wonderful. People ing her red sauce for mostacci- caterer. Business went full would come in, get their food oli because she’s made it so steam back in 1992, yet sit down and eat, and then get often.” Marilyn still took time to up so other people could sit Marilyn said probably the experiment on recipes to kind down and eat. And the bride most requested item on her and groom just took it all in menu was the easiest to Grundy teen entrepreneurs wanted

Grundy teens with an entrepreneurial spir- Those who apply before Oct. 22 will be it are invited to join the new GEEK Club — invited to an informational Zoom meeting at 4 Grundy Enterprise for Entrepreneurial Kids. p.m. on Oct. 22. This project is a collaboration of The Community Foundation plan is to Community Foundation of Grundy County and have GEEKs meet via Zoom twice a month. At the public libraries serving the county — each meeting they will have a speaker relating Morris, Coal City, Three Rivers, and Fossil to entrepreneurship plus whatever ideas the Ridge. Teens in grades 9-12 are invited to join. GEEKs decide they'd like to address. Interested teens are asked to respond to Questions can be directed to the survey that can be found at http://www.survey- Community Foundation or the teen librarian at monkey.com/r/3K88P86. your local library. The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 4 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM

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local business owner got arrested once before For shame for doing the very same thing during a city BRAIDWOOD—To the person who took council meeting after being ordered out of the my husband’s cane at the handicap parking council chambers for their conduct. spot at Berkot’s in Braidwood, you might as well have taken his legs. He needs his cane to Preventive measures walk. You know who you are. It happened on BRAIDWOOD—President Trump’s sup- Oct. 7. You may need something someday too porters follow in his fiendish footsteps. The ral- and you will remember what you did. You could lies sound like mobs of vigilantes shouting law- have taken it into the store and let them know less demands of “lock her up” and “second you found it. The cane was by my husband’s car amendment solution”. And in their neighbor- when an employee was putting his groceries in hoods they steal political signs. Biden voters his car. Shame on you. Janice Dean are forced to take a variety of preventive meas- ures to keep their signs from getting snatched The unfair tax off their property. They take them in at night or WILMINGTON—Let me understand why whenever they leave the house. I’ve seen them Gov. Pritzker believes Illinois’ flat tax is unfair. hung high up in a tree suspended over a busy Right now if I make $100,000 the state takes highway. I’ve advised people to surround their roughly $5,000 in taxes. If I make $1 million signs with horse manure, which I’m happy to under the present flat tax, I’d pay $50,000. So supply them, piled high and deep and wide. If those who make more are already paying more all these measures don’t work, they can put up which Pritzker says is unfair and the wealthy a sign “Republicans are thieves” to try to shame should be paying more. Seems they’re already these brazen people. And it’s noteworthy that I paying more. What’s unfair Gov. Pritzker is never had a sign stolen until Obama ran for when you removed toilets from your second president revealing that Republicans are not mansion to avoid paying $320,000 in taxes. only thieves but racists as well. Brad K. What is unfair Gov. Pritzker is you raised license plate fees by $100 affecting every tax- Opposite reaction payer, rich and poor. Or how about when you BRAIDWOOD—Why does one specific doubled the state gas tax by 18 cents? Was that person in town feel that it is their purpose on fair? Tobacco taxes up $1. Gaming and mari- this earth to unearth the "truth" behind our at the parks. Maybe we can make a difference. juanna taxes are pouring into the state at local government, more specifically one elect- Not a laughing matter Maybe we can save some money. Thank you. record rates. And now you want to change the ed official. Not only do they feel it is their pur- WILMINGTON—Did you see on the news state constitution to allow lawmakers the abili- pose to be the "change" the world needs, but to the giggling episode during Republican Senate Support Judge Barrett ty to change the tax rate on any one group of be their own cheerleader to the world about Leader McConnell’s debate with his opponent, WILMINGTON—I am grateful America people they want? JB Pritzker you already have what they are doing. This person needs to real- Marine fighter pilot Democrat Amy McGrath? still produces such outstanding people such as raised our taxes enough. Vote no to the change ize that this type of behavior is only going to get McConnell giggled while McGrath questioned AmyConey Barrett. Hopefully, when you read and let’s tell JB and the people in Springfield to them alienated from the rest of the community. McConnell’s refusal to bring legislation to the this; she will be Justice Barrett. I think it's a stop overspending and do their job with the Sometimes being loud and boisterous about floor to help small businesses suffering from given that she was the smartest person in the billions they’ve got. one’s activities will get the exact opposite reac- the pandemic. Apparently Republican room. What impressed me the most however tion from what this person is looking to get. McConnell thinks the misfortunes of others are was her composure. It can't be easy listening to In school learning funny because he just couldn’t stop chuckling. politician after politician act like fools for a few BRAIDWOOD—The Reed-Custer School Trump’s accomplish- I assume it’s because he had no good answer. minutes of airtime. District began optional in-person instruction ments But it was heartbreaking to watch his response in mid-August and it should stay that way. The to the struggles of small businesses because, as Rounding up school is taking every necessary precaution to SHADOW LAKES—I looked up President COAL CITY— I have been to many retail Trump’s record of accomplishments and the Senate leader, he’s the one holding up the stay in person and also tackling obstacles as works to get legislation passed for the entire stores in a 20- mile radius and when I get to the they arise. Since March the school has taken looked up Senator Biden’s accomplishments cashier and the bill total is $35 and hand the and it is true that Trump has achieved more in country. For the past two years Republican plenty of precaution with sanitation and con- McConnell is the one who is happy to call him- cashier a $50 bill then the cashier says sideration for the well being of all. Even though the right direction in 47 months then ex- roundup. If you say yes or what is round up Senator Biden ever did. Why is that? Biden is a self the ‘grim reaper’ because he’s been killing there is currently still a lot of danger and possi- good legislation passed by the Democratic then they will close the cash drawer and keep ble mishaps that could ruin this experience for loser and he is also incompetent and Kamal the change. Then the money becomes the Harris, if Biden wins, will be the president. Tom House, such as decreasing prescription drug everyone it is important that the administra- prices, and he’s downright proud of it. What a property of the retail store. They do not say tion has still made the decision to try to give Go to jail guy. A girly giggler who is bitterly ruthless by about how much money they collected in the everyone a return to normalcy. The school has sticking it to the middle class. Irene D. company cash drawer or where it goes. They managed to keep cases to a minimum while WILMINGTON—If you are losing your political signs make sure you write your name do not ask if you want to donate to a charity still having in person sessions. The online sys- Full of hot air they just say round up like they live on a ranch tem for those who did not feel comfortable in and address on the bottom. It is a seven-year jail term for messing with political signs and a SHADOW LAKES— In the beginning it was going out to collect horses or cattle. Deception in person classes is a slightly different story. called global warming and now it is called cli- is a form of fraud. The program being used is making it hard for $750 fine. If you have your name and address on the signs and someone gets caught with it mate change, but there is a better name which students to focus because they have to teach is heated atmosphere or to put it in a easier way Shameful strategy themselves. Most students find it difficult to be they can go to jail for seven years. I tell every- COAL CITY—What is the Republican strat- body to put their name and address on the bot- just call it hot air. That is what’s being thrown able to learn on their own. The school made the out by all the politicians that are playing kings egy to win elections? First, Republicans sup- correct decision to reopen. tom of the signs. Let the crooks go to jail. Thank press the vote wherever possible. I’m white and you and queens and telling false tails for control Taxing our retirement over the American lives. But if hot air makes waited only 2 minutes in downtown Joliet, but Willing to wait balloons go up then explain what keeps the in Georgia minorities wait as long as 11 hours WILMINGTON— We must all vote NO to CUSTER PARK—Why do people stand in members of the Democratic party down since which is typical for people of color in JB Pritzker's "Fair Tax" because Illinois their hot air could be what really caused the Republican strongholds. In Philadelphia Treasurer Frerichs told the Daily Herald "one line for hours to vote? Is it love of country? Do people feel their well-being is at stake? The global warming or climate change to take effect President Trump wants his poll watchers to be thing a progressive tax would do is make clear in the first place. A good example is to believe armed to intimidate voters. And if unhappy you can have graduated rates when you are tax- issues are as follows: the shrinking of health- care insurance with elimination of preexisting someone that only has enough scientific with the election outcome, Trump will declare ing retirement incomes." The "fair tax" amend- knowledge to mix a bourban and water like the votes invalid and have lawyers take it to ment is the first step to taxing retirement condition coverage by Trump’s lawsuit after the election; 210,000 COVID-19 deaths without a Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez that says the world court. In fact Amy Coney Barrett was a income. On October 7 a news conference was will end in 10-12 years because of hot air. Republican attorney who, together with John to be held to explain that statement until JB national plan which is perhaps the world’s worst pandemic performance; Trump’s propos- Roberts and Kavanaugh, helped steal the elec- abruptly cancelled the press conference 10 Fair tax truth tion for Bush in 2000. If Barrett is confirmed, minutes before he was set to answer important als to weaken Social Security; traitorous aban- donment of America by Trump’s allegiance to WILMINGTON—Please vote NO on the so- the Supreme Court will not only be ‘packed’ but retirement income questions. Clearly they have called Fair Tax Amendment! Illinois is over three of its members participated in the a plan to tax retirement income. That would Russia; Amazon now pays no taxes whatsoever by Trump giving big cuts to the wealthy and to $200 billion in debt. One way or another a yes hijacked 2000 election. But this time, second include all union pensions, public pensions, vote means a $200 billion tax increase. It really amendment devotees are added to the dirty IRA savings, Social Security and more. We need corporations; disrespect toward our soldiers and disregard of bounties on their heads; is that simple. This is what happens under one deals of slick lawyers and the whim of judges -- the truth from JB about retirement income, political party rule for decades. Again, please lawyers, guns and money as the popular lyrics otherwise we should vote NO! No doubt Trump’s encouragement of domestic terrorists who plotted to kidnap Michigan’s governor; vote NO. Illinois certainly has enough prob- go. Because Republicans must cheat to win, the Pritzker has a plan to tax retirement income in lems already. rest of us must defend democracy itself. Kurt K. Illinois and needs the constitutional amend- corruption of the USPS by slowing the mail to ment to get it done. There are 32 states that prevent vote-by-mail ballots from being count- Share your plan Joe Uncooperative candidate have a "fair tax" and every one of those states ed; threatening to disregard election results. SHADOW LAKES—The plan, What is the BRAIDWOOD—Any judge that doesn’t taxes some form of retirement income. Lastly, And this last one inspires Americans to stand in plan. I believe Joe Biden, must be the second know the five freedoms enshrined in the First we are not going to the polls to vote on the new line and stay in line because democracy itself is most smartest people in the world. He has a Amendment is definitely unqualified for the income tax rates. We are not voting on tax rates threatened. Gary W. better plan to handle the pandemic. The prob- Supreme Court. Perhaps Amy Coney Barrett’s listed in proposal. The amendment sets no Enough is enough lem is it’s secret. Are we or are will not all ignorance is due to the fact that she has only limit on the number of tax brackets that could COAL CITY—As you read this we will be Americans? Wouldn’t it be adventitious to the three years’ background as a judge. My experi- be created and no limit on how high tax rates seven months into the WUHAN virus. With all people of this country? Let’s see, he stated he ence in the professional world of technology is could be increased by politicians. Do you trust the exaggerated death predictions, conflicting would not be opposed to another shut-down. that three years’ experience is next to nothing. lawmakers to keep their promises? I don't. rules and regulations, bogus number of cases We all know Joe stated, “to do what science Considering that Supreme Court justices Call for a ride and continuing lockdowns. Enough is enough! stated.” Didn’t science, the World Health change the course of not only American histo- Now governor Pugsley wants to ban haunted Organization state lockdowns do not heed the ry but the world stage, Barrett is wet behind the BRAIDWOOD— Need help getting to your spread of virus? So, Joe, what is your plan? All ears. Barrett also refused to acknowledge that polling place?Early voting in Braidwood runs houses and hay rides. Really! Back in March when this all started, I was willing to follow the countries in the world have or are suffering; it’s illegal to commit voter intimidation, won’t through Oct. 30, Monday through Friday 9 with many world leaders also contracting the admit that it’s unconstitutional for the presi- a.m.-5 p.m. at the Braidwood City Hall. their rules because they made it sound very serious. The governor declared a state of emer- virus. At the start I said Joe was the second dent to postpone the presidential election and Election Day is Nov. 3. If you or anyone you most smartest man in the world. The first has couldn’t remember if she met with President know needs a ride to get to the polls so they can gency, which until then no one knew the scope of his power to declare whatever he wanted, a to be…Kim Jong Un. He stated, there are no Trump before her nomination. Does she know vote, reach out to me; I'm more than happy to cases of virus in his country. Amazing!…always anything at all? Does she know whether it’s help and make sure you're able to get that bal- mandate to be followed. But by Easter I had, had enough, Pugsly, extended the state of Margot lane. unlawful to bash somebody over the head with lot cast. Call or text me at (815)-593-5827 so we a two-by-four? I’m sure she would also avoid can set up a time; you can also get a hold of me emergency by another 30 days. But did you Make a difference know, to do this he needs the General Assembly this question using the excuse that it’s hypo- on Facebook at John Guistat - Reed Township WILMINGTON—People who complain thetical. Considering the lack of cooperation Republican Chairman. Don't be afraid to give to approve the extension? He gets only 30 days about the park district, about how things are emergency power, not 60 days, not 90 days, and from this candidate, why bother with judicial my number out to those who may need this lit- not being done, there is nothing for the kids to hearings? Ann S. tle bit of help I can offer. This is absolutely open definitely not 7 months. So you say how do we do, all kinds of stuff all the time. Well it’s time to everyone and anyone who needs a ride; I stop this? Only the governor, or Speaker of the for you to stand up and take out a petition to Shoo-in don't care or want to know who you're voting House (tricky Mike Madigan) can call a special run for park commissioner. Time to get off the WILMINGTON— Why did the U.S. Senate for or your position on anything, I just want to session to vote on extension of powers. Have couch, time to get off your lazy chairs, get out just waste four days on this Supreme Court know that you're able to exercise your you heard anything about calling a special ses- there and run for office, make a difference in Justice nomination? Does the Senate believe all Constitutional right to cast your ballot! God sion? Where's ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, WGN? the world. Quit complaining to everyone that constituents are too stupid or ill-informed to Bless, Why haven't they asked the hard question to the park doesn’t keep it clean, there is no play- not know that this Justice would be approved John Guistat, Reed Township Republican call a special session? Where's the outrage of all ground equipment for the kids. If you’re so with a Republican majority in the Senate? And Chairman. this nonsense going on? We know they don't worried about it, get down to the park district she knew she could avoid answering contro- follow the laws when it comes to illegal immi- at the Wilmington fitness center, get your pam- versial questions because she knew she was a Escorted out gration, when they flaunt their sanctuary city phlet to run for office and run for it. Don’t let shoo-in. Can you imagine going to a job inter- BRAIDWOOD— After watching the video status, so why should we be surprised when these guys that have been in there for years stay view and not answering direct questions posed of the last city council meeting and the temper Pugsly keeps extending his power. Let's take a in there because nothing is ever gonna change. to you? It was a waste of time and money when tantrum thrown by a member of the public sit- look at one example of the insanity. Sweden has There should be term limits so you can only sit the Senate could have been devoting this time ting in the audience, it's clear that this person a population of just over 10 million people. there two terms, not 30 years, not 20 years, not and energy to approving a covid stimulus bill to can't handle being called out publicly, just like Illinois has a population of 12.6 million. 10 years. I hope to see someone get out there help people who are suffering during this pan- they are doing to members of the city council. Sweden has just over 101,000 cases of COVID, and grab some petitions. We need to have some demic. Yelling, shouting and finger pointing should get Illinois has just over 324,000 cases. Sweden has younger people in there, a couple older people, T. Lockwood, Wilmington someone escorted out of the room. I believe a over 5,900 dead from the virus, Illinois has just new ideas. Some things can’t be fixed. Other topped 9,000 deaths. Sad but things can be fixed. Maybe you can get your God will know true FACTS! Sweden never taxes lowered. You know there is no reason to This letter is to all so called Christians who had a full lockdown, they bare- have 17 part-time employees at the park dis- vote. Being Christian you are most likely pro- ly had any type of lockdown. trict. We only have one little park and a fitness life. Now the problem you have is the Democrat We all know what's been going center. The only way they are gonna keep that platform, which is pro-choice, abortion. You on here in Illinois. This mad- fitness center open is by asking for more taxes can say, well I am pro life but also a Democrat. ness must stop. Gov. Puglsy every year. They can’t run it on what they bring If you vote for pro abortion then you are as doesn't have power to keep in, it’s not self sustainable. They can say it is but guilty as the person you voted for. Sure you can extending his emergency pow- it is only self sustainable on your tax dollars. say no one will know how I vote, but God will ers as long as he wants. It’s You want to keep paying for a private fitness know and if you believe in him he will not for- illegal! He is not a dictator, or club down there? That’s what I consider it. get your vote. God said in Revelations 3:15 - 16, is he? Call your state represen- Complaints never get to park commisioners it I would rather you be hot or cold because if you tative and demand change stops at the office. So if you have complaints are luke warm I will spit you out of my mouth. now! KL you have to call your park commisioners. Think about that. They’re in your book your pamphlet that you SEE SOUND-OFF PAGE 11 get every year for programs of what is going on WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 5

Wanted: Your engagement If you want a or wedding announcement targeted audience There is no charge to submit an engagement, wedding or advertise in the anniversary announcement with a photo in this newspaper. Forms are available for these special occasions at 111 S, Water Free Press Newspapers Street, Wilmington; 271 S. Broadway, Coal City; or at www.freep- ressnewspapers.com -> Submit-> (choose your form). Call 476-7966 We especially encourage you to include a color photo with your announcement. If celebrating a milestone anniversary, why not bring in “then and now” photos? Newspaper announce- ments of engagements, wed- ding and anniversaries make the special times in your life so much more memorable and make great keepsakes for your scrapbook. The deadline for Family Page announcements is noon on Monday. We’d like to have wedding announcements and photos within six to eight weeks of the ceremony, if pos- sible. Just stop in at one of our Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Sorg business offices for an announcement form, or call 815-476-7966 or 815-634-0315 Allen, Sorg united in marriage to have a form faxed to you. Shana Allen and Bradley Sorg of Braceville were united in mar- riage on Sept. 12, 2020. Parents of the bride are John Allen and Michelle Read, of Godley. Parents of the groom are Ron and Patti Sorg, of Wilmington. The outdoor ceremony and reception were held at The Ellis House and Equestrian Center in Minooka. Nicole Sorg, sister of the groom, was maid of honor. Bridesmaids were Skylar Allen and Jadyn Read, the bride’s sisters; Heather Bishop, cousin of the bride and the bride’s best friends, Melissa Henline and Tori Ruffatto. Flower girls were Piper Sorg, niece of groom and Madison Smith, cousin of the bride. Richard Heintz, friend of the groom, served as best man. Groomsmen were Claude McCale and Kevin Goodwin, friends of groom; Justin Read, the bride’s brother and Brandon Cunning, the bride’s uncle. Shana is employed as a CNA at Riverside and Brad is a mix opera- tor at Crane Composites Inc. The couple resides in Braceville and will honeymoon in Florida in November. The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 6 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM Community calendar of events To submit your event here, visit www.freepressnewspapers.com Thursday, Oct. 22 Wednesday, Oct. 28 • noon to 1 p.m, Grace Wu talk on snakes, virtual presenta- • 6 p.m., Coal City School Board study session at CCHS tion, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. Register by email to • 6 p.m., Wilmington Area Historical Society meeting, [email protected] or call 815-423-6370 updates in museum, 114 N. Main St. • 7 p.m., Wilmington Island Park District board meeting, 315 • 7 p.m., Coal City Village Board meeting, Village Hall, 515 S. N. Water St., Wilmington Broadway. Thursday, Oct. 29 Friday, Oct. 23 • 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Coal City Food Pantry distribution at Coal • 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Godley Ghost Ride, ages 2-12, enter south City United Methodist Church, 6805 E. McArdle Road, Coal City entrance off Smith Road for drive through Halloween event. Friday, Oct. 30 • 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wilmington Lions Club Spook, North • 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., or til supplies last. Godley Park Island Park, Wilmington. Park on South Island and ride the District will be having a spaghetti supper. Carry-out only haunted shuttle. Saturday, Oct. 31 Saturday, Oct. 24 • 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Braidwood Lions Club trick or treat • 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Residential electronics & hazardous waste drive-thru at Old Smokey city park. Enter on Third St. drop-off event, Wilmington City Hall, 1165 S. Water St, by • 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Braidwood Lions Club Halloween hot dog appointment only. Make appointment at www.willcounty- giveaway, Old Smokey park, north side of pavilion. green.com • 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. The Custer Fire Protection District will be • 10 a.m. to noon, Wilmington Coalition for a Healthy hosting a Halloween drive-thru. There will be 3 locations, Custer Community and the Wilmington Police Department will offer Fire Station 21750, Hwy 113. Deer Ridge Subdivision and Custer free safe disposal of prescription drugs in the CVS parking lot at Township Hall, 35332 Grant Ave. 1101 S. Water St. Sunday, Nov. 1 • 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wilmington Lions Club Spook, North • 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Annual St. Rose Church turkey dinner Island Park, Wilmington. Park on South Island and ride the held at the school, 626 S. Kankakee St. Dinners will be carry-out haunted shuttle. and dive-up only. Sunday, Oct. 25 Monday, Nov. 2 • 7 a.m. to noon, Essex Lions Club breakfast, Essex • 7:00 p.m. Braidwood Planning and Zoning meeting Community Hall, 217 Paris St., Essex at Braidwood city hall, 141 W. Main St. Tuesday, Oct. 27 Tuesday, Nov. 3 • 7 p.m., Braidwood City Council meeting, city hall, 141 W. • 10:30 a.m., Godley Park District, Seniors Alive. Main St., • 10:30 a.m., Grace Lutheran Church, Wilmington, crafts and conversation open to the public. In need of meals or food? Here’s help

There are many resources in the area Top Fuel Saloon Food Pantry, 275 S. Church, 80 N. Garfield St., Coal City available for those who need assistance Hickory St., Braidwood is open 1st and 3rd 2021 with food and meals. Friday from 4 to 5 p.m. January/February-United Methodist Help for Hope, 100 S. Baima St., Coal Coal City Food Pantry at Coal City Church, 6805 E. McArdle Rd. Coal City City is open Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to United Methodist Church, 6805 E. March/April- Immaculate noon and 4 to 6 p.m. For more informa- McArdle Rd., south entrance is open tion call 815-518-2000. Mondays 9-11 a.m. and Thursdays 1-3 Conception Catholic Church, 110 S School Assumption Food Pantry is also locat- p.m. Information: 815-216-3288. St. Braidwood ed at Help for Hope, same hours and We Care of Grundy County Food May/June-Ignite Christian Church, address. Pantry, 530 Bedford Rd., Morris food dis- 1180 W. 1st St. Braidwood Braidwood Food Pantry, 112 S. Center tribution is Wednesday thru Friday from July/August-New Hope Street, Braidwood at Community Care 1-3:30 by appointment. Information: 815- Presbyterian/80 N. Garfield St., Coal City Center is open Tuesdays 8 a.m.-noon and 942-6389. Sept./Oct.-United Methodist Church Thursdays from 1-3 p.m. Information: St. Vincent Table hot meals are served 6805 E. McArdle Road, Coal City 630-738-8863. on Monday evenings from 5-6 p.m. Ignite Christian Church, 1180 W. 1st Locations change every two months. Nov./Dec.- Assumption of the BVM, St. Braidwood has a micro-pantry open 24 Sept./Oct.-Assumption of the BVM, 180 S. Kankakee St., Coal City hours in front of the church Information: 180 S. Kankakee St., Coal City Coordinator: Cindi Grove 815-941- 815-390-5040. Nov./Dec.-New Hope Presbyterian 1220 or cell: 815-735-1432. Statewide cookout adds carp to menus SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The ermen and other partners to is very economical,” said Roy fish taco special at The Barn Illinois Department of Natural remove these fish from our Sorce, president, Sorce located at 1501 Wabash Ave. Resources (IDNR), together waterways, we know more can Freshwater Company. “As a • Quincy: Red Light Bar & with Midwest Fish Co-op and and must be done,” said distributor, we see the benefits Grill, 428 Maine St. Red Light Sorce Freshwater Company, Colleen Callahan, director, not only for restauranteurs Bar & Grill will prepare and introduced Illinoisans to a IDNR. and hungry and discerning serve Asian carp sliders as a locally-sourced, plentiful and “To that end we thought, patrons, but also for our daily special. healthful seafood option with ‘Why not acknowledge them waterways. The more carp we • Carbondale: Chefs from a statewide Asian carp cook- as a protein source add them remove, the better our native Cristaudo’s Café, Bakery and out. to menus across the state?’ fish and ecological systems Catering will prepare and Held at nine locations They’re an extremely healthy will fare.” serve a Jamaican Escovitch across the state, the cookouts and mild-flavored fish which Additional help in organ- fish taco filling at upcoming offered Illinoisans free Asian can be locally sourced. It’s a izing and providing event loca- Southern Illinois Collaborative carp tacos, sliders, hush pup- win-win for everyone.” tions came from local partners Kitchen events in the coming pies and more to showcase the Event locations on including regional planning weeks. versatility and health benefits Saturday included restaurants, commissions, universities, of Asian carp. parks, community event food distribution companies “An invasive species, spaces and university dining and restaurants. Asian carp are abundant in locations in Chicago, Quincy, For Illinoisans who Illinois and, while we’ve long Peoria, East Peoria, missed Saturday’s event, addi- worked with commercial fish- Springfield, Urbana, tional opportunities to try Carbondale and Carterville. Asian carp meals are available The meals, prepared and at the below locations: served by chefs across the • Ashburn: Saturday, Oct. state, were given to residents 24, the Black Fire Brigade will free of charge with help from prepare and serve Asian carp Midwest Fish Co-op and Sorce burgers at Black Fire Bridge, Freshwater Company, which 8404 S Kedzie Ave., Chicago. provided the fish for all loca- • Peoria: Kelleher’s tions. Restaurant, 619 SW Water St., “Asian carp isn’t only a will be serving Asian carp delicious and healthy protein items on their menu during option, it’s also an excellent the coming weeks. option for restaurants as it’s • Springfield: Beginning easy to prepare and sourcing it Oct. 21, customers can enjoy a WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 7 Elks offer free orthopedic assessment

The Joliet Elks 296 in cooperation with the services at this clinic. Illinois Elks Children’s Care Corporation will The Elks will hold the clinic at Hinsdale sponsor a free children’s orthopedic assessment Orthopedic, 951 Essington Road in Joliet. Dr. clinic on Tuesday, Nov. 3. The clinic is from 4 to Bradley Dworsky will be the clinician in charge. 5:30 p.m. and is by appointment only. No medical referral is necessary for the To make an appointment call the Illinois clinic but physicians are welcome to refer Elks Children’s Care office at 1-800-272-0074 patients to the clinic for a specific reason or sec- between the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday ond opinion. School nurses are welcome to through Friday. There are no charges for any refer children and families to the clinic.

Hungry heron picture devours Forest Preserve photo competition A heron snacking on craw- Homer Glen area and has ly winner in the 2020 photo fish at Whalon Lake in always enjoyed being outdoors contest. Three more monthly Naperville won September's and visiting the preserves. winners will be chosen by a portion of the Forest Preserve "Two years ago, I self-taught panel of judges before the con- District of Will County's myself about photography," test concludes on Dec. 31, so Preserve the Moment photo said Serafini, who works in there is still time to enter the contest. banking. "I always saw such contest. In January, all eight The picture was snapped cool things while hiking, I fig- monthly winners will vie for by Matthew Serafini of ured why not try capturing top honors via public voting Lockport, who saw a Forest these things on camera. Been Preserve news story about a having a blast ever since." on the District's Facebook juvenile yellow-crowned night Honorable mentions for page: www.facebook.com/ heron at the preserve and September were awarded to WillCoForests. decided to check it out with a Tyler Paul, of Wilmington, for a Monthly photo contest friend. photo of two squirrels cud- winners receive $75 gift cards. "I knew it was a fairly rare dling in a tree at Goodenow Overall winners chosen in bird for the area, so I met up Grove Nature Preserve; Eileen January will receive with a photography buddy of Capodice, of Minooka, for a MasterCard gift cards worth mine," he said. "We went out photo of an adorable yellow $500 for first place, $250 for and found the bird and had warbler at Rock Run Preserve; second place and $150 for some great lighting. The little Amy Miller, of Joliet, for a third place. The photo contest guy was mainly hunting craw- photo of a great blue heron is sponsored by The Nature fish. In the hour I spent with looking over its shoulder at Foundation of Will County. the bird, we probably saw him Rock Run Preserve and Mark Photos must be taken by eat four to six crawfish and one Hanna, of Romeoville, for a amateur photographers age 18 small catfish. Awesome little photo of a sleepy barred owl at hunter." Four Rivers Environmental or older, and they must be Photo contest judges were Education Center. snapped in a Will County for- impressed with the picture's All of September's photo est preserve after the May 1 crispness and the lighting as contest entries can be viewed contest start date. Please read well as the way it captured the on the District's Flickr page, all photo contest rules and exact moment the heron was www.flickr.com/photos/will- photo upload instructions at about to ingest the crawfish. coforests. Reconnectwithnature.org Serafini said he grew up in the Serafini is the fifth month- before entering the contest.

St. Rose 73rd annual turkey dinner set for Nov. 1 The 73rd annual St. Rose turkey dinner will be held on Sunday, Nov. 1. There will only be carry- outs with a drive- up service, so no need to even get out of your vehicle. Dinners will be picked up at St. Rose School, 626 S. Kankakee St., Wilmington, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (while supplies last). The cost is a suggested donation of $12 (free-will offering). All are welcome.

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE freepressnewspapers.com The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 8 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM

Terri Raspanti-Barnes Rich Foland GARDNER—Terri Raspanti-Barnes, Barnes, of Gardner; seven grandchildren: WILMINGTON—Rich Foland, 49, of his two cats, Heathcliff and Sonja. 72, of Gardner, formerly of Chicago, Michael Anthony Raspanti, Anthony Wilmington, formerly of Romeoville, Rich was preceded in death by his passed away Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020 Wayne Raspanti, Chuck Barnes, Tyler passed away Saturday, Oct. 17, 2020 at maternal grandparents, William and at her home. Barnes, Emily Barnes, Fayetina The Parc of Joliet. Camellia Rose Friddle; paternal Born Feb. 2, 1948 in Chicago, DeMatteo, and Elizabeth DeMatteo; Born Dec. 27, 1970 in Joliet, grandparents, Max and Odette Theresa Lucille is the only child of one great-grandson, Isaiah Barnes Richard William was a son of Robert Foland and his uncle, John Foland. Florence Raspanti-Langer and Gus and her aunt and uncle: Theresa (the and Camellia (nee Friddle) Foland. He The family will receive friends for Lessaris. She was raised and educated Late Ronald) Irving-Raspanti, of was raised and educated in Romeoville a visitation on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2020 in Chicago, and worked for many years Downers Grove and Nick Raspanti, of and graduated with the class of 1989. at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 E. in the restaurant industry. Two special Hickory Hills, as well as several cousins, Rich held employment with Dominick’s Kahler Rd. in Wilmington from 9 to places Terri worked were the nieces and nephews. for over 5 years and was a member of St. 10:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial Willowbrook Ballroom in Willow Springs Terri was preceded in death by her Rose of Lima Catholic Church in will follow at 11 a.m. in St. Rose Catholic and Every Buddies in Gardner, where she father. Wilmington. He loved music, especially Church, 604 S. Kankakee St., in made many life-long friends and relationships. Per her wishes, cremation rites have been playing his guitar, playing his Atari, working on Wilmington with Reverend Sebastian Gargol She was a free spirited woman and quintessen- accorded, and a celebration of life will be computers and drawing. Rich was very active presiding. Those wishing to participate in Rich’s tial child of the 1960’s who loved to live her life planned at a later date. with following up on his family’s genealogy and services are invited to watch the live stream on to the fullest. More than anything, it was Terri’s Family and friends may sign the online on social media, including Facebook, where he Thursday morning starting at 11 a.m. by logging family that came first in her life and she lived guestbook, upload photographs, and share would keep in touch with all of his family and onto his memorial page. every moment for her children and grandchil- Terri’s memorial page by logging friends. Rich will be laid to rest in Mount Olivet dren. onto: www.ReevesFuneral.com/obituary/Terri- Survivors include his parents, two sisters, Cemetery in Wilmington. Survivors include her mother, Florence Raspanti-Barnes Sherry (Ronald) Schopf, of Custer Park and Family and friends are encouraged to sign Raspanti-Langer of Gardner; three children: Cremation services and arrangements have Josephine Foland, of Marseilles; nieces and the guest book, upload photographs and share Michael Anthony (Kara) Raspanti, of Mokena; been made under the direction and care of nephews: Camellia (James) Steffen, of Rich’s memorial page online through social Brian Keith Barnes, of Gardner and Gina Marie Reeves Funeral Homes, Ltd. In Gardner. Wilmington; Samantha (the late Brad) LaFever, media by logging onto: of Braidwood; Scott Schopf, of Braidwood; www.BaskervilleFuneral.com/obituary/Rich- Nicole (fiancé Alex Lambert) Foland, of Joliet; Foland great-nieces and nephews: Jillian and Lilly Funeral services and arrangements have Steffen, Eli and Layton LaFever and one more been made under the direction and care of on the way, Nathan; dear friends, John Born, Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. Billie G. Daniels John, Rutherford, and Allen Reynolds, as well as COAL CITY— Billie G. Daniels and Bill (Laura) Daniels; their six Daniels, 91, of Coal City, grandchildren: Heather (Chuck) Harvey, passed away peacefully, sur- Jennifer Brooks, Jason (Tara) Brooks, rounded by his family on Kate (Kevin) Mengoni, Allison Friday, Oct. 16, 2020 at the (Jeremy) Nugent and Emelia (Mike) Joliet Area Community Hospice Suess; 14 great-grandchildren: Wyatt, Home. Tess and Carlie Brooks, Cora Pierard, Helping seniors recognize He was born on July 30, 1929 in Roman, Orrin, Laz and and Eleanore Kirksville, MO to Earl and Lucille (nee Decker, Audrina, Greysen and Burke McCormick) Daniels. His family moved Nugent, Aubry Suess, Flynn Mengoni, fake news and propaganda to Gardner when Bill was a small boy, Malea Campbell and a baby coming then to Braceville where he graduated soon. He is also survived by a step-great- .Dear Savvy Senior, online misinformation there are from Braceville Grade School. He then grand daughter, Debra Fernandez. Are there any resources that you several great resources she can attended Gardner-South Wilmington High He was preceded in death by his parents, know of that can help seniors detect turn to that offer free courses and School, graduating with the class of 1949. Earl and Lucille Daniels; his brothers: Leo fake news? My 75-year-old mother tips. Bill worked in the family business, Daniels (Mary) Daniels, Cecil (Violet) Daniels and shares a lot of misinformation with One is MediaWise for Seniors, Auto Supply, until going into the United States Harold (Eleanore) Shelton and his sisters, her family and friends that she sees a project of the Poynter Institute, Army in 1951. In November of 1951, he married Neilson (Donald) Glasgow and Jolene (Monte) on Facebook. I’ve talked to her which offers two free online cours- Joann Thom at the Coal City United Methodist Jacobs. He will be missed by many nieces, about it, but for some reason she has es to help seniors detect and com- Church by Rev. David Erickson. Together they nephews and friends. a difficult time deciphering real bat online misinformation – see raised their three children in Coal City. After his A private family funeral service will be held news from fake news and propa- Poynter.org/mediawise-for-sen- time in the service, Bill resumed and enjoyed at the Coal City United Methodist Church with ganda. iors. his work. He liked to play golf and he and Joann Pastor Bradley Shumaker officiating. Burial will Frustrated Daughter The first four-week course has took pleasure in traveling and visited many follow at Braceville-Gardner Cemetery. SAVVY SENIOR already filled up, but your mom countries. He was always willing to give a help- Family and friends are encouraged to sign Dear Frustrated, can still enroll in a self-directed ing hand to anyone who needed it. Most of all, the online guestbook at Unfortunately, the digital mis- Jim Miller course called “Hands-On Lessons Bill loved being with his family. www.ferrarifuneral.com information problem your mom is to Separate Fact and Fiction He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Joann; Ferrari Funeral Services of Coal City are experiencing is not uncommon. According to Online.” It is hosted by Christiane Amanpour their children, Cynthia (Roger) Bossler, Gregory entrusted with arrangements. researchers from Princeton and New York and Joan Lunden, and was scheduled to begin University, people aged 65 and older are up to Sept. 24, but she can take the course anytime. seven times more likely to share fake news and In addition, Poynter has worked with AARP dubious links on social media than their to produce Fact Tracker interactive videos and a younger counterparts. webinar on spotting and filtering misinforma- Why? tion at AARP.org/facttracker. ComEd offers help to families There are several theories. The first is that Some other free course options you should many seniors started using social media sites look into include Senior Planet, which is offer- Understanding the impact the pandemic households and residential customers express- like Facebook only within the past five or six ing a one-hour online course on “How to Spot has had on families struggling to keep the lights ing financial hardship may be eligible for a flex- years and may lack the digital literacy skills to Fake News” at SeniorPlanet.org. on, ComEd has several bill assistance programs ible payment arrangement so they can spread identify false or misleading content. The News Literacy Project that provides the to help unable to pay their electric bill. balances over 24 payments, with zero percent Some other possible theories are that most Checkology virtual classroom, which was ini- Programs are available to help those strug- down. Residential customers who may not be seniors experience some cognitive decline as tially created for middle and high school stu- gling with past due balances and customers can facing financial hardship, but would like to they age, making them more likely to fall for dents, is now offering an independent learners learn more by calling 1-800-Edison 1 or by visit- spread balances, may be able to do so over 18 hoaxes. Many older Americans also suffer from option that is ideal for older adults – see ing comed.com/support to learn more about payments, with no more than 25% down. chronic loneliness which can cause them to Get.Checkology.org. Their lessons will help the following payment assistance programs and • Waiver of New Deposits and Free Relief— share misinformation as an attempt to make your mom detect the difference between news, eligibility requirements. ComEd is waiving any new deposit require- connections with other people. And studies opinion and propaganda. • CARE Customer Hardship Grants— ments for a limited time for customers express- have shown that older people are generally And Coursera, a free world-wide online Residential customers facing financial hardship ing financial hardship and extending relief from more trusting than younger generations, which learning platform, which offers an in-depth six- may be eligible to receive one-time CARE grants various fees [such as reconnection fees] to help can make them more gullible. week course called “Making Sense of the News: from ComEd to help them get back on their low income residential customers. All this is particularly concerning now as News Literacy Lessons for Digital Citizens,” feet. • State and Federal Financial Energy we sit in the midst of a global health pandemic which she can access at • COVID-19 Financial Bill Assistance—A Assistance—Illinois’ Percentage of Income and a 2020 election season, both of which are Coursera.org/learn/news-literacy. one-time bill assistance credit of up to $500 is Payment Plan [PIPP] and the federal Low ripe with misinformation, rumors and conspir- There are also many good websites, like available this year for eligible, low income Income Home Energy Assistance Program acy theories. And seniors are prime targets of PolitiFact.com, Snopes.com and FactCheck.org households. [LIHEAP] also provide valuable financial help to this false/misleading information because they that will let your mom fact check a story to help • Flexible, Extended Payment households that may be facing financial chal- are much more likely to vote than their younger her identify fact versus fiction. These sites have Arrangements—For a limited time, low income lenges. cohorts and are much more vulnerable to get- most likely already fact-checked the latest viral ting sick and dying if they contract COVID-19. claim to pop up in her news feed. Where to get help To help your mom detect and combat

‘Go to bat’ for bats at Midewin Grace Luthern Church The United States observe wildlife and teach oth- Department of Agriculture ers,” Lewis said. “Of all the estimates that bats contribute creatures of nature in our area, offering crafts and 3 approximately $53 billion bats tend to get an especially annually in pest control bad rap. I am hoping that peo- more ways to worship around the world. At the USDA ple will participate in the Forest Service’s Midewin National Bat Week webinar so Grace Lutheran Church of a high-risk population. National Tallgrass Prairie, they can not only learn more invites the community to In cars, simply park in where agriculture is one of the about bats, and by learning join them on Tuesday the church parking lot, and four main purposes for the more can also help to dispel mornings for Crafts and tune your FM radio to 91.7. land identified by the Illinois some of those bat myths that Conversation. If you want You can then listen to the Land Conservation Act, bats just simply are not true.” to get out to a safe place to whole service. This worship are a vital part of the prairie If you see a bat, avoid any chat and work on your craft, option would be good for restoration process. physical contact. In general, stop in at Grace any those who cannot watch On Thursday, October 29, bats tend to be typically gentle Tuesday morning at 10:30 online because they do not 7 to 8 p.m., Midewin NTP by nature, however it is when a.m. Coffee is on to wel- have Internet access, but Visitor Information Specialist someone attempts to pick up a come you. are also in a high-risk group Laura Lewis will help de-mys- bat that a problem can be cre- Grace Lutheran Church and cannot risk worship- tify some of the suspicions ated. The safest approach is to in Wilmington is now offer- ping inside (or, if we have about bats and explain why it Photo by Cynthia Cox Benson steer clear. ing three ways to worship MIDEWIN NTP VISITOR Information Assistant Laura Lewis holds a overflow from limited seat- is important to “go to bat” for Learn more about the each Sunday at 9 a.m. ing inside). them. Lewis will reveal which National Bat Week photo frame at the USDA Forest Service’s importance and bats and bat Inside the Communion will be two of the 12 bat species in Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. Lewis will talk about how to safety precautions: To register Sanctuary, the church has taken out to each car, and Illinois are the most common- make photo frames, bat houses and more on October 29 at 7 p.m. for the Midewin NTP National put together careful proto- ushers will collect offerings ly seen at Midewin NTP. She Bat Week program, email: cols that must be followed, if you turn your hazard which include: Wearing will explain how bats are SM.FS.Midewin_ masks at all times when in the building; taking temper- Live online, if you are Lewis has been studying earned her Bachelor of Arts Carbondale. [email protected] or call: (815) unable to attend worship nature and wildlife for as long degree in zoology at Southern “I love to explore nature, 423-6370. atures as people enter; entering and exiting in-person, you can still view through certain doors and and participate in the serv- sitting in specific places as ice live online. directed by the ushers, and Remember that every- others. thing you need for Sunday A special disinfectant worship is on the front page Final call for Chamber Christmas elves machine has been pur- of the church’s website, chased for cleaning the including a link to find the Elves and sponsors are needed to participate in the The boxes are placed in sponsoring businesses and shop- sanctuary between services. video (”Worship with us!”) Wilmington Chamber of Commerce and Industry Christmas Elf pers are asked to donate their change, or as much as they can One issue might be avail- and a link to the worship contest. spare. Each penny counts as a vote for the elf pictured on the able seating, this will be bulletin for you to down- The contest benefits the Christian Help Association (CHA), box — so each dollar is worth 100 votes. The top three vote-get- very limited because of the load and print beforehand which uses the proceeds to provide a holiday meal for the com- ters each receive Chamber gift certificates as a thank you for need to sit at least six feet (”Bulletin PDF”). Grace munity’s less fortunate families and presents for their children. participating. apart (spots are marked, Lutheran Church’s website The CHA will be helping approximately 350 local families this Elf photos will be taken on Thursday, Oct. 22. After school please follow them). Please is www.gracewilm.org. Be year. and evening appointments will be available. do not choose this worship- sure to have a little bread Children age 5 and under, who are Wilmington residents, To participate either as an elf or a sponsoring business, con- ping option if you are part and wine/grape juice ready. are eligible to be elves. They will be photographed in their holi- tact Cyndi Ragain, program organizer, right away at 815-474- day finery, and their pictures will be attached to donation boxes. 7521. WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 9 What’s with all the Santas?

Courtesy photo RACHETTI’S came to life last weekend as the On Broadway Dancers began filming its 9th annual Christmas show, “Signed, Sealed, Delivered.” You read that right, film. Because COVID-19 restrictions took use of the Coal City Performing Arts Center off the table as a venue, OBD determined it would get the message of Christmas out by going in a different direction. The dancers will now be present- ing the annual holiday show as a drive-in movie. Filming will take place at multiple locations through the Coal City area over the next few weeks. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered,” tells the story of how Santa was deemed non-essential, therefor the letters from children were not getting delivered to him. As a result, two elves are sent to Coal City to retrieve his mail. The drive-in movie is set for Saturday, Nov. 28 in the Coal City High School parking lot. Ticket information will be released at a future date. The annual Christmas show is a fundrais- er to support the dance company and local families in need. To date, OBD has generated over $35,000 from the shows that have been used to provide food, clothing and toys to local families during the holiday season.

Hines VA outreach team returns to Grundy County

The Grundy County Veterans an service officers to help veterans with American Legion, 212 W. Washington St., Assistance Commission [VAC] announced benefits and services from the Veterans starting Monday, Nov. 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 that the Edward Hines VA Medical Center Benefit Administration and the National p.m. Outreach Team has returned to Grundy Cemetery Administration. Veterans can also learn more about County. “We are very excited about our other services and programs available at The Hines Outreach Team and the improved outreach,” said Ken Buck, Hines hospital and the community clin- Grundy VAC were in Gardner on Monday, Superintendent of the VAC. “With the ics. Oct. 19. In partnership with the availability of the new location and the The clinics will have flu shots avail- Community Foundation of Grundy addition of a service officer to the out- able for those veteran that are enrolled in County they were able to use the South reach we are able to answer more ques- VA Health Care. Grundy Resource Center to offer services tions and provide more assistance to vet- Contact the Grundy County VAC to southern Grundy County and sur- erans in the county.” office at 815-941-3152 to learn more rounding areas. The Hines VAMC Outreach Team is about the clinics or to learn more about The Grundy County VAC was also on also planning to return to Morris on the the variety of programs and services avail- site during the clinic with one of its veter- first Monday of each month to the able to veterans.

Courtesy photos IN PARTNERSHIP WITH the Coal City Food Pantry and Help for Hope, LyondellBasell’s Morris Complex sponsored a drive-thru food distribution outside Coal City High School. The event provided up to 300 families with shelf stable food and basic household necessities. The event was held as part of the company’s Global Care Day. More than 80 of the 400 individuals employed at the Morris Complex took part in the initiative held Saturday, Oct. 17. The company also built, installed and stocked micro pantries in the villages of Gardner and Braceville. LyondellBasell volunteers lend a hand Global Care Day observed with food distribution in Coal City

Understanding the value of time, resources and partici- pation, LyondellBasell volun- teers across the world safely engaged in various in-person and virtual projects focused on food security as part of the company’s 21st annual Global Care Day. On Saturday, Oct. 17, more than 80 LyondellBasell loca- tions participated including the company’s Morris Complex. LyondellBasell chose not to cancel this year’s event despite the pandemic and instead participated in service projects where volunteers spent their time focusing on the greater good within their communities. “Now more than ever, we need to come together to help people and provide basic LYONDELLBASELL, ONE OF the largest producers of ethylene necessities in a time of great and polyethylene in North America, did its part to support the com- uncertainty,” said Randy munity last weekend through its Global Care Day initiative to pro- Tatum, site manager. “We vide food to local families in need. could think of no greater need than helping provide food were stocked with items from donation, and organizing securities at a local level. the food drive. drive-thru food banks for indi- Employees, contractors, In the midst of financial viduals in need. families and friends packaged instability brought forth by The look and feel of the food boxes from the Northern COVID-19, this year’s Global 2020 event was different for Illinois Food Bank, distributing Care Day theme and coincides volunteers than in years past the food to those in need with LyondellBasell’s global due to the pandemic, but that through a partnership with the charitable contributions made did not stop #TeamLYB. With Coal City Food Pantry and earlier in the year to local food safety at the forefront, the Help for Hope. banks around the world in company implemented The drive-thru food distri- response to the pandemic. COVID-19 precautions to bution held at Coal City High LyondellBasell’s Global ensure volunteers who partici- School provided up to 300 Care Day event showcased the pated in-person remained families with shelf stable food positive impact a company can safe. These precautions along with some basic house- make in communities where included social distancing, hold necessities. they both live and operate. eliminating the potential for The Morris Complex also Volunteer projects including groups to congregate and built and installed two micro building micro pantries, stock- requiring facial coverings be food pantries in both Gardner ing shelves at local food worn to help protection and Braceville. The shelves pantries, collecting food for against the spread of the virus. The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 10 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM Oil drilling and the Artic National Wildlife Refuge Dear EarthTalk: Is Trump federal government to stop oil Senator to support S. 2461, The going to be able to finally open leases within ANWR's coastal Arctic Refuge Protection Act, up the contentious coastal plain. Additionally, a consor- plain of the Arctic National tium of native and conserva- which calls for permanent pro- Wildlife Refuge to oil drilling tion leaders convinced major tection of ANWR's coastal before his first term ends? -- banks (including Wells Fargo, J.P,Maumee, OH JPMorgan Chase and Goldman plain from development and Sachs) to pull out from funding resource extraction. The debate over whether fossil fuel projects there. to open up the most ecologi- To get involved yourself, EarthTalk® is a 501(c)3 cally sensitive part-the so- the non-profit Friends of nonprofit EarthTalk. See more called 1002 area, or coastal Alaska Wildlife Refuges has plain-of the Arctic National authorizing oil drilling there in volunteer opportunities and at https://emagazine.com. Send Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) to oil its tax bill. But even though can always use donations. Trump is champing at the bit questions to: question@earth- drilling has raged for decades. Meanwhile, another way to to start drilling in the coastal Known for its scenic beau- help is to urge your U.S. talk.org. ty but more so as the birthing plain, he'll have to wait until place of migrating caribou as seismic tests are complete-and well as hundreds of species of there is no way that can hap- birds that use the coastal plain pen before the end of his (first) as a nursery for their newly term. hatched offspring before Seismic surveys need to be migrating south for the winter, conducted in order to provide ANWR's coastal plain is also hard data as to how much oil thought to be rich in oil. exists in a given area. But the These lands are not only seismic blasts themselves can crucial to wildlife, but also to negatively affect wildlife THE POLAR BEARS of Alaska's arctic are already threeatened by people. Long before the U.S. species' behaviors and mortal- global warming but now they may have to contend with oil drilling government named ANWR in ity rates. Since oil companies apparatus in one of the most ecologically sensitive and important 1960, the Gwich'in knew it as haven't been able to show con- parts of their habitat. “Iizhik Gwats'an Gwandaii clusively that seismic testing Goodlit” (“the sacred place won't harm protected species where life begins”). Now they (like polar bears), the U.S. approved by the Department declare ANWR a national mon- and other Alaskan natives are Fish & Wildlife Service has of Interior instead. If the ument, permanently halting working alongside conserva- held firm against issuing the Trump administration can get the lease sale and any other tionists to protect it. permits. But the Trump admin- the testing done and the future development. But in late 2017 Congress istration is trying to do an end results are to their liking-and Candidate Joe Biden has com- paved the way for opening the run around these precautions they retain power-expect to see mitted to using his presidential contentious strip of land by and get the seismic tests oil leases operational in the powers to protect ANWR from coastal plain before the end of oil interests, if elected. 2021. This past September, 15 of Of course, a new president the Lower 48 states and three could stop any or all of this by of Alaska's tribal entities each using the Antiquities Act to took legal action against the Dispose of prescription drugs safely National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is Saturday, Oct. 24. The Wilmington Coalition for a Healthy Community and the Wilmington Police Department will offer free safe disposal of prescription drugs from 10 a.m. to noon in the CVS parking lot at 1101 S. Water St. Wilmington Items to be accepted include outdated and/or leftover pre- scription drugs.

SUDOKU - Here’s how it works: Soduko puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle. WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 11

of a Satan-worshiping mob that kidnapped, slaughtered and ate to Illinois and we will kill your babies for you.” If you vote for Sound-off, continued from page 4 white children to gain power from their blood. These days Democrats, like it or not, believe it or not you have blood on QAnon conspirators have twisted this concept to fit extreme your hands. You may not think so but God knows. You are going A nightmare coming right-wing purposes throughout the western world. According to answer for it whether you believe in the Christian God or not. WILMINGTON— If anyone believes that if Joe Biden to the FBI, QAnon has hijacked the efforts of those who are truly There will be no excuses. Do what’s right in God’s eyes, not becomes president they will not suffer they are wrong. All you fighting pedophiles and contorting it for their own political pur- man’s. Also, if you want to make Satan very happy, vote have to do to be in another country is just step out your front poses in a violent way giving QAnon followers the reputation of Democrat, or should I say Demoncrat? Frank door. You will enter the united socialist america, because the domestic terrorists. How do we rid ourselves of the curse of laws that will be imposed will affect every American citizen no QAnon? It’s impossible to say, but considering that President Soft on Biden matter what your political party. It won’t take too long for Trump promotes QAnon, perhaps QAnon will fade away along WILMINGTON—I’d like to ask some questions to some of Kamala Harris to push gun control, border walls torn down, ille- with the likes of Trump. Gloria W. these extreme left wing people who call into the sound-off col- gals will get everything from America and it citizens will become umn. Why is it that the news media is very soft on Biden and useless except for their ability to work if they can find a job that Again? Hunter Biden but they are very tough on Trump? They are sup- hasn’t been shipped to a foreign country. Think about what will COAL CITY—Well, as usual, the Democrats are lying to us posed to be equally tough on both. Silicone Valley eliminates happen when they use a loophole in the law to remove Joe Biden again. Little Joe has as one of his, oh listen to me," I promise to anything negative about the Democrat party. Can anyone from office. The 25th amendment Kamala Harris becomes pres- not trash my opponent’s name or accomplishments, on the answer that? The media is the Democrat. There’s a difference ident and Alexandria Ocasio-cortez as vice president an eerie media." So let’s get down to the real truth. Little Joey is a pal of between Democrat and Democratic which most publications thought about a living nightmare that can happen. our the last Democratic President and the president before consider the Democrat party Democratic. Democratic is a way that's wife. Oh yes, You can't deny it. We all know it is her money of government. Democrat is a party. Biden’s gun attack in this so-called fund that she operates, is funding His political Joe Biden’s promise to gun manufacturers: “I’m coming for campaign too. I would like to know how much money her fund Military might you, I’m going to take you down.” Biden’s end goal is ultimately has received from the Middle East states. And in return, her SHADOW LAKES—In response titled “Another insult,” in to repeal the 2005 PLCAA. This law, passed with overwhelming mentor gave pallet loads of American money to one of our ene- the sound-off column, by Ralph D. Obviously Ralph you don’t bipartisan support and signed by President George W. Bush, mies of freedom. She is so mad at losing her try at being know anything about what Trump has done for the military. I ended the politically driven lawsuits aimed at bankrupting the “President." She would stop at nothing to ruin another "leader use the VA. They have drastically improved compared to when firearms industry. That law doesn’t grant immunity, but it pre- of men." As a former Democrat I could not stand the mud tac- Obama was in office with all of the scandals going on. He has vents others from shifting the blame from individuals commit- tics being tossed around at meetings. And all those rally's of also increased military pay, he increased everything the military ing crimes to a manufacturer. The firearms manufacturer is no dirty tricks, free bus rides, donuts, etc., ouch. Hey, do all of our needs to perform as they should whereas your favorite president more liable for the crime commited by an individual than Home state’s people a favor. Read the definition of the tax amendment. “Obummer” depleted our military. He bent down in front of Depot would be if someone commited murder with a hammer, other leaders and bowed to them which is something no or an axe. Biden will attempt to bankrupt an industry which cur- Lied before, lie again American president has ever done. So wherever you got this rently employs 312,000 Americans from all walks of life in com- BRAIDWOOD—The man said he was going to build a wall information about Trump calling the military scoundrels and munities across the nation. Firearms manufacturers paid $6.8 at the southern border and that Mexico was going to pay for it. losers I would should like to know because you are definitely billion in taxes and had a total economic impact of more than He said he was going to eliminate the North America free trade misinformed. $52 billion. Biden wants to destroy an industry that provides agreement (NAFTA). All they did was change the name but nafta Dan Hill $15.7 billion in worker wages. This could be a first step in repeal is still with us. He said he was going to make America great of the Second Amendment, elminating police and achieving again. The man says a lot of things. Anyone can say they support socialism and ultimately communism control of American citi- law enforcement. They can say they support the military, they zens. Hundreds of millions have been invested by the liberal can say anything they want, but if they lied before, they will “swamp” in this election to gain a blue wave takeover of the surely lie again. presidency and congress, effectively creating a “one-party con- trol” of our democracy which will be practically impossible to Favoritism reverse. WILMINGTON—As California continues to burn this year with 8,500 separate fires consuming 4.1 million acres, it has Mail in votes destroyed 5,000 homes killing 8 people directly and thousands SHADOW LAKES—Why are the Democrats so worried indirectly from air pollution, tens of thousands are sickened about mailed in voting when Obama ran the first time and the with some falling ill to COVID-19 due to displacement and second time the military was not very happy with him and in homelessness. After the same repeated tragedy year after both elections that he got elected military votes that came in drought-stricken year, it’s California’s worst wildfire season so late were not counted. But yet the Democrats now want votes far. And yet last week, President Trump refused federal assis- that even get mailed in late to be counted. Why is it different tance to California at the same time approving federal assis- now? But the military votes that got here late could not be tance to North Carolina for Hurricane Isaias, a category 1 on July counted. Mail in voting as it has shown in the last primaries in 31 causing a fraction of the damage compared to California. several states, thousands of votes were trashed. If you can’t vote Why favoritism toward North Carolina? California is solid blue in person, someone I believe can give you a ride. Strawberry but North Carolina is Trump country and Trump wants to keep fields forever. it that way. And last week Trump approved record-breaking sub- sidies to farmers totaling an unprecedented $46 billion this year Let’s move on just in time before the election. Not only does Trump refuse to WILMINGTON—The uproar that took place this past year address the climate crisis causing wildfires, he spends taxpayer on the Diocese deciding to close St. Rose School was embarrass- dollars buying votes instead. Ralph D. ing. The lack of respect people in our town showed towards our pastor was a disgrace. If you thought that Fr. Sebastian had that Town hall highlights much power, then shame on you for not opening your eyes. CUSTER PARK—What did President Trump have to say at Today I observe more people turning to anger to make a point or his recent town hall? Here are a few highlights: Trump claims he react in anger when something does not go their way. The lack protects preexisting conditions, but his lawsuit will strike down of respect displayed for our president these last four years and protection for 133 million Americans with no alternative plan; then for our pastor is out of control. I have changed my life to Trump claimed our country’s handling of the virus is among the follow the Lord and this has helped me deal with all the insani- best in the world when, in fact, it’s among the worst in the world; ty going on. If you are one of those angry people who believe Trump falsely claimed 85% of people wearing masks will catch that not supporting our church will prove a point, think again. COVID-19; Trump falsely claimed that radiologist Dr. Atlas, who How is your life now? It is clear these haters have very little promotes herd immunity, is one of the great experts of the Christian values. The choice is yours, hate or have Faith. I hope world; Trump falsely claimed there is a cure for the virus; Trump we can work together and learn by this. To help move forward falsely claimed local lockdowns are political stunts directed please remove the Save St. Rose signs in your yards. Does any- against him; Trump falsely claimed he knew nothing about one keep a presidential sign in their yard after an election, espe- QAnon except its opposition to pedophilia; Trump falsely cially if their person lost? The school is closed so let’s move on. claimed he’s promoting DACA; Trump blamed Gold Star families for infecting him; Trump claimed Obama spied on his campaign Not the victim despite the recent report that proves otherwise. A. W. BRAIDWOOD—To the Braidwood resident who feels they are being "attacked" for calling out our elected officials and Courage and character cheerleading about it, you need to wake up. You're not being COAL CITY—When we hear about Caroline Giuliani, attacked, you're being put in your place for the trouble you are daughter of Rudy Giuliani, publicly declaring her support for Joe causing. You obviously feel it's OK for you to call out people, but Biden and attacking both the Trump administration and her when it's done in reverse to you it's not OK. Trying to portray father in articulate detail, we praise her courage and character. yourself as a victim isn't going to get you any sympathy. By the same token, there were high hopes 4 years ago that daughter Ivanka would soften her father and steer him in the Have patience right direction. It didn’t happen. In fact, in 2018 the photo of BRAIDWOOD—With wintertime approaching there are a Ivanka cuddling her toddler was a bitter pill to swallow for all of few Braidwood residents who like to constantly complain pub- us grieving the separation of families at the southern border by licly about their streets not being plowed to their standards or President Trump. The American public pleaded with Ivanka to satisfaction. They need to remember these few things. 1). If take action, but she did nothing to curb her father’s barbaric they live on a dead end street or on a cul-de-sac they take the immigration policy. She also did nothing to change her father’s back burner as the main streets and roadways take priority. 2) mind about the climate crisis making Ivanka complicit in the One, two or even three inches of snow does not constitute a irreparable damage her father inflicts against humanity. On the snowstorm or a public safety emergency. Those complaining other hand, we admire Caroline Giuliani who did the right thing about it just need to learn how to drive in that type of weather. as difficult as that must have been. 3) School bus drivers know how to drive under conditions like that, that's what they train for. If it is such a danger then they or Stop zigzagging their leadership would be taking the issue up with the village. WILMINGTON—Responding to “Pelosi holding out,” it’s Just because something is not done up to a single person's per- quite the contrary. The chuckling, giggling, smirking and cack- sonal standards or satisfaction does not mean that the job is not ling we heard from Republican Senate Leader McConnell being done right. regarding the stimulus legislation shows he’s not serious about helping the American people. In contrast, Pelosi is bargaining Do not understand tirelessly for a stimulus package with money going to America’s WILMINGTON—This weekend Confirmation was celebrat- working families, especially those with children. The last thing ed at St. Rose Church. Unfortunately, not all of us were able to we need are slush funds for President Trump to dish out without walk away with a happy memory. Some families were allowed to accountability like the bailouts this past spring for small busi- sit together, even those that no longer reside in the same house, nesses which mysteriously disappeared all too soon. Where did while others were sat on opposite ends of the church. Now, I they go? Add to that Trump’s whipsawing back and forth. understand social distancing, but I do not understand how it Recently Trump cared only about confirming a new Supreme makes sense to subject families to four different families instead Court justice until the stock market dropped 600 points. Then of just allowing everyone to sit with their child and their child’s and only then Trump was ready and willing to hand out bigger sponsor? It would have limited ours to only being subjected to stimulus checks than Pelosi. This zigzagging by Republicans is one person instead of four. Also, if the church is going to allow in contrast to the steady hand of Pelosi who knows what she people to help, maybe they should also give lessons in manners. wants the best for ordinary Americans. Irene I personally witnessed a helper be rude to a family where I could hear the man say that’s fine I’ll leave,”pretty sad considering A true diplomat with the rules put in place, only parents could attend. So that BRAIDWOOD—So President Trump brokered two Middle family will remember the poor treatment they were shown East Peace Accords, something that 71 years of political inter- instead of having a happy memory of their child’s Holy vention and endless war failed to produce. Trump has now been Sacrament. nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by three separate world leaders. Trump is the first president that has not engaged us in a Right and wrong foreign war since Eisenhower. Trump has had the greatest COAL CITY—In all 50 states it is wrong to cause the death of impact on the economy, bringing jobs and lowering unemploy- another person. Even an accident, especially where negligence ment to the Black and Latino populations, more than any other or law breaking caused the unintentional death of someone, a president in our history. Trump has exposed the deep, wide- court case will at least call it manslaughter and there are appro- spread and longstanding corruption in the FBI, CIA, NSA and priate punishments to be levied. In all states an intentional and Democratic Party. He turned Nati around and the member pre-meditated killing of another is a crime calledmurder in the nations are now paying their just dues. Trump neutralized N. first degree and court punishment is always much more than if Korea and stopped them from sending missiles towards Japan the death was accidental. I believe this to be proper and right. and threatening our West Coast. He lowered your taxes and The USA stands for equal treatment under the law for everyone. caused the stock market to move to record levels more than 100 When this does not happen it is wrong and unfair. Nothing is times positively impacting retirements of tens of millions of cit- more unfair than to hire a doctor to rip apart an unborn baby so izens. Trump fast tracked the development of a COVID 19 vac- mom can escape responsibility. Especially in this age of birth cine while we still don’t have a vaccine for SARS, bird flu, Ebola control such things should never be necessary. I bet that if the or other diseases that occurred during previous administra- baby had a say in it, life would be its choice and not death. The tions. Among other accomplishments he rebuilt our military unborn baby is alive and human until a doctor who is supposed which was crippled by Obama and fired over 200 generals and to protect life rips it apart. Each country must have its own admirals during his first year in office. They who want constant degree of law and order according to its own traditions and wars. Trump works for free and has given up billions so he could should respect the right of others to see right and wrong their serve as president. All this and so much more in the face of own way. To question other traditions is only ok if they violate relentless undermining and opposition from people who are their own beliefs. Should we be surprised that good Moslems see threatened because they know they are going to be exposed as this unequal treatment and label the USA as the great Satan? I the criminals that they are if he is re-elected. So many of you last heard that 47 states have put severe restrictions on abortion. writing in this column don’t like him. Look at what he has done Most people think it is wrong. It is certainly a crime against for America. What are you doing besides calling him names? humanity and easy for anyone to understand. If the USA wants respect from the rest of the world we ought to deserve it by hon- Bloody hands estly following our own rules. SHADOW LAKES—For all you people who vote their pock- etbooks or some perverted policy if you believe in a Christian Freaks and fanatics God and vote for Democrats who are about 95% pro-abortion CUSTER PARK—The conspiracy theories and fanatical you are as responsible as they are for the deaths of millions of speculations of QAnon are nothing new. Not surprisingly it innocent children. Most Democrats not only condone abortion, hearkens back to Nazi propaganda that ushered in the holo- they promote it. Like our governor not so long ago when caust. It was called the Protocols of the Elders of Zion and was Missouri shut down an abortion clinic on the border of Illinois written by Russian anti-Semites in 1902. It embraced the threat and Missouri Pritzker said basically “Don’t worry about it. Come The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 12 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT makes no representation IN THE CIRCUIT COURT chaser will receive a Cer- OF THE 13TH JUDICIAL as to the condition of the OF THE 13TH JUDICIAL tificate of Sale that will enti- CIRCUIT GRUNDY property. Prospective bid- CIRCUIT GRUNDY tle the purchaser to a deed COUNTY - MORRIS, ILLI- ders are admonished to COUNTY - MORRIS, ILLI- to the real estate after con- NOIS check the court file to verify NOIS MILL CITY MORT- firmation of the sale. The THE FIRST NATIONAL all information. If this prop- GAGE LOAN TRUST property will NOT be open BANK OF OTTAWA erty is a condominium unit, 2017-1, WILMINGTON for inspection and plaintiff Plaintiff, the purchaser of the unit at SAVINGS FUND SOCI- makes no representation -v.- the foreclosure sale, other ETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRIS- as to the condition of the JESSICA J. ALLEN A/K/A than a mortgagee, shall TIANA TRUST AS TRUS- property. Prospective bid- JESSICA ALLEN et al pay the assessments and TEE ders are admonished to Defendant the legal fees required by Plaintiff, check the court file to verify 2020CH30 The Condominium Prop- -v.- all information. If this prop- NOTICE OF SALE erty Act, 765 ILCS DAVID BZDILL, AS SPE- erty is a condominium unit, PUBLIC NOTICE IS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If CIAL REPRESENTATIVE the purchaser of the unit at HEREBY GIVEN that pur- this property is a condo- OF THE ESTATE OF the foreclosure sale, other suant to a Judgment of minium unit which is part of LINDA M. BEAZLEY A/K/A than a mortgagee, shall Foreclosure and Sale en- a common interest commu- LINDA BEAZLEY, UN- pay the assessments and tered in the above cause nity, the purchaser of the KNOWN HEIRS AT LAW the legal fees required by on September 18, 2020, an unit at the foreclosure sale AND LEGATEES OF The Condominium Prop- APARTMENTS DUPLEX FOR RENT GARAGE SALE HELP WANTED agent for The Judicial other than a mortgagee LINDA M. BEAZLEY A/K/A erty Act, 765 ILCS Sales Corporation, will at shall pay the assessments LINDA BEAZLEY, ALLEN 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If FOR RENT REYNOLDS, ERIC this property is a condo- Small 2 bedroom du- 9:00 AM on November 4, required by The Condo- 815 Eagle Creek, El- Full-time, experienced 2020, at the Grundy minium Property Act, 765 BEAZLEY, LUKE minium unit which is part of 2nd floor 1 BR apt. for plex with basement and wood, Friday & Satur- Stylist wanted. Chair County Courthouse, 111 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF BEAZLEY, UNKNOWN a common interest commu- rent. 725 S. Broadway, garage. References day, October 23rd-24th rental. Elwood, IL. East Washington Street YOU ARE THE MORTGA- OWNERS AND NON-RE- nity, the purchaser of the Coal City. Same floor and security deposit. from 9:30am-2pm. Email inquiries/resume front door entrance, MOR- GOR (HOMEOWNER), CORD CLAIMANTS De- unit at the foreclosure sale No pets. 815-634-2282. Mostly power tools and to [email protected]. RIS, IL, 60450, sell at a YOU HAVE THE RIGHT fendant 2019 CH 33 other than a mortgagee washer & dryer, NOTICE OF SALE PUB- shall pay the assessments $660/mo. plus $700 se- ca41a-44b misc. items. ca43ab cc41b-45a public sale to the highest TO REMAIN IN POSSES- bidder, as set forth below, SION FOR 30 DAYS AF- LIC NOTICE IS HEREBY required by The Condo- curity. Price includes the following described real TER ENTRY OF AN OR- GIVEN that pursuant to a minium Property Act, 765 utilities. If interested call Judgment of Foreclosure ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF ESTATE SALES 248 E. Cermak, Braid- HOMES FOR RENT estate: Commonly known DER OF POSSESSION, 815-685-2919 and as 1320 W PRAIRIE IN ACCORDANCE WITH and Sale entered in the YOU ARE THE MORTGA- wood, Fri. & Sat., Oct. above cause on August 7, GOR (HOMEOWNER), leave a message. 23rd & 24th starting at Coal City-135 Black- ROAD, MAZON, IL 60444 SECTION 15-1701(C) OF ca 42b-46a 5925 E. Route 113, Property Index No. THE ILLINOIS MORT- 2020, an agent for The Ju- YOU HAVE THE RIGHT Coal City, Friday, Octo- 7:30am. Remodeled! stone. 2 BR, stove & dicial Sales Corporation, TO REMAIN IN POSSES- fridge furnished, 08-29-400-002 The real GAGE FORECLOSURE ber 23rd & Saturday, Not large sale, but ex- estate is improved with a LAW. You will need a will at 9:00 AM on Novem- SION FOR 30 DAYS AF- Braidwood - 2nd floor, October 24th from ceptional quality Pottery washer/dryer hookup, residence. Sale terms: photo identification issued ber 18, 2020, at the TER ENTRY OF AN OR- two bedroom apart- 10am-2pm. INDOOR- Barn furniture. Perfect no pets, no smoking, 25% down of the highest by a government agency Grundy County Court- DER OF POSSESSION, ment. $675. Tenant condition ivory recliner, $800/mo. + 1 month bid by certified funds at the (driver's license, passport, house, 111 East Washing- IN ACCORDANCE WITH OUTDOOR, lot of ton Street front door en- SECTION 15-1701(C) OF pays all utilities. Laun- Christmas, little bit of new king organic latex rent deposit, 815-634- close of the sale payable to etc.) in order to gain entry 8800. ca 41b-45a The Judicial Sales Corpo- into our building and the trance, MORRIS, IL, THE ILLINOIS MORT- dry facilities. Security everything. cc43b mattress with topper, 60450, sell at a public sale GAGE FORECLOSURE check, no pets, no ration. No third party foreclosure sale room in Weather Tech, brand checks will be accepted. Cook County and the same to the highest bidder, as LAW. You will need a smoking. 815-476-2219 new Bali cellular sliding set forth below, the follow- photo identification issued 725 Richard Court., LOST & FOUND The balance, including the identification for sales held or 815-278-5350. door and kitchen Judicial Sale fee for the at other county venues ing described real estate: by a government agency cc41a-44b Godley, Thursday-Sun- shades, & more. Abandoned Residential where The Judicial Sales Commonly known as 3770 (driver's license, passport, day, Oct. 22nd-25th Have you found a lost Property Municipality Relief Corporation conducts fore- WILL COURT, MORRIS, IL etc.) in order to gain entry cc42b-43b pet or lost a pet in Will AUTOS from 8am-5pm. Wid- Fund, which is calculated closure sales. For informa- 60450 Property Index No. into our building and the owed elderly male County? Please call on residential real estate at tion, examine the court file, 05-16-226-016 The real foreclosure sale room in Will County Animal estate is improved with a Cook County and the same 2014 Chevy Cruze At- moving closer to family the rate of $1 for each CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, HELP WANTED Control. We may have $1,000 or fraction thereof P.C. Plaintiff's Attorneys, single family residence. identification for sales held lantis Blue. RS pack- after 30 years. This is The judgment amount was at other county venues ONE HUGE SALE Way your pet. We want to of the amount paid by the 15W030 NORTH FRONT- age. 1.4 Turbo motor, Applications are being purchaser not to exceed AGE ROAD, SUITE 100, $212,795.48. Sale terms: where The Judicial Sales too many items to list. reunite your family, 25% down of the highest Corporation conducts fore- sunroof, remote start, taken for one, full-time 815-462-5633. fr/tfn $300, in certified funds/or BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 tires replaced (80,000 Everything from an- (eight hours per day) wire transfer, is due within (630) 794-9876 THE JUDI- bid by certified funds at the closure sales. For informa- tiques, china, furniture, twenty-four (24) hours. No CIAL SALES CORPORA- close of the sale payable to tion, JOHNSON, BLUM- mile, Michelin), battery Custodial/Maintenance The Judicial Sales Corpo- BERG & ASSOCIATES, replaced last year. Must household appliances, position. Resumes fee shall be paid by the TION One South Wacker garden pots, wood and MISCELLANEOUS mortgagee acquiring the Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, ration. No third party LLC Plaintiff's Attorneys, see to appreciate. should be sent to: residential real estate pur- IL 60606-4650 (312) checks will be accepted. 230 W. Monroe Street, 41,200 miles. Under tools etc. Cash only. Mr. Jim Habing Dry, seasoned oak suant to its credit bid at the 236-SALE You can also The balance, including the Suite #1125, Chicago, IL, Blue book value, $9500 cc43ab Judicial Sale fee for the 60606 (312) 541-9710. Wilmington High School firewood $129, cherry sale or by any mortgagee, visit The Judicial Sales OBO. Call, leave mes- Abandoned Residential Please refer to file number 209U Wildcat Court BBQ firewood $169. judgment creditor, or other Corporation at sage, text Dennis at GARAGE SALE lienor acquiring the resi- www.tjsc.com for a 7 day Property Municipality Relief 19-6979. THE JUDICIAL Wilmington, IL 60481 Wood racks $49, 815-341-0410. dential real estate whose status report of pending Fund, which is calculated SALES CORPORATION Wilmington Community Camping Wood $99. on residential real estate at One South Wacker Drive, 185 S. Primrose Unit School District No. rights in and to the residen- sales. CODILIS & ASSO- The best firewood & tial real estate arose prior CIATES, P.C. 15W030 the rate of $1 for each 24th Floor, Chicago, IL Dr. (Meadow Estates), 209U is in compliance $1,000 or fraction thereof 60606-4650 (312) Coal City, Fri., Oct. 16, quick, friendly service. to the sale. The subject NORTH FRONTAGE BOATS with Section 504 of the 815-260-0108. cc40b-48a property is subject to gen- ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR of the amount paid by the 236-SALE You can also Sat., Oct. 17 & Sun., Rehabilitation Act of eral real estate taxes, spe- RIDGE IL, 60527 purchaser not to exceed visit The Judicial Sales Two, late 60’s, early Oct. 18 from 8am-5pm 1973, which states that cial assessments, or spe- 630-794-5300 E-Mail: $300, in certified funds/or Corporation at and Fri., Oct. 23 & Sat., no person in the United GET HELP cial taxes levied against [email protected] wire transfer, is due within www.tjsc.com for a 7 day 70’s era metal canoes, twenty-four (24) hours. No status report of pending $300 each. Bass boat Oct. 24 from 8am-5pm. State shall, on the basis APPLYING FOR said real estate and is of- Attorney File No. fered for sale without any 14-20-04486 Attorney fee shall be paid by the sales. JOHNSON, BLUM- with trailer, $500. Call Tools, Christmas items, of race, color, national A FOID CARD mortgagee acquiring the BERG & ASSOCIATES, clothes, household items We take color photo- representation as to quality ARDC No. 00468002 Case 815-260-0214, leave origin, sex or handicap- or quantity of title and with- Number: 2020CH30 residential real estate pur- LLC 230 W. Monroe message. cc43a-46b and much more. ping condition be ex- graphs for gun owners’ out recourse to Plaintiff TJSC#: 40-2248 NOTE: suant to its credit bid at the Street, Suite #1125 Chi- cluded from participa- cards (FOID) for $10 and in "AS IS" condition. Pursuant to the Fair Debt sale or by any mortgagee, cago IL, 60606 tion in, be denied the and help you complete The sale is further subject Collection Practices Act, judgment creditor, or other 312-541-9710 E-Mail: ilp- benefits of or otherwise the application online. to confirmation by the you are advised that Plain- lienor acquiring the resi- leadings@johnsonbluberg. dential real estate whose com Attorney File No. be subjected to dis- Illinois State Police court. Upon payment in full tiff's attorney is deemed to of the amount bid, the pur- be a debt collector attempt- rights in and to the residen- 19-6979 Case Number: crimination under any won’t answer the FOID tial real estate arose prior 2019 CH 33 TJSC#: hotline but you can chaser will receive a Cer- ing to collect a debt and program or activity in tificate of Sale that will enti- any information obtained to the sale. The subject 40-2212 NOTE: Pursuant which District 209U re- complete your applica- tle the purchaser to a deed will be used for that pur- property is subject to gen- to the Fair Debt Collection ceives federal assis- tion with our computer. to the real estate after con- pose. Case # 2020CH30 eral real estate taxes, spe- Practices Act, you are ad- tance. ch43a-44b Call for an appointment firmation of the sale. The I3157238. Published in the cial assessments, or spe- vised that Plaintiff's attor- most days (but Tues- property will NOT be open Free Press Newspapers cial taxes levied against ney is deemed to be a debt days) 9a.m. to 4p.m. for inspection and plaintiff Wed., Oct. 7, 14, and 21, said real estate and is of- collector attempting to col- Friends Over Fifty has Do not wear white or 2020. fered for sale without any lect a debt and any infor- an immediate need for representation as to quality mation obtained will be very pale colors. Call or quantity of title and with- used for that purpose. Caregivers for 24-hour 815-476-7966. The out recourse to Plaintiff Case # 2019 CH 33 care shifts. Our Senior Free Press office, 111 MOBILE HOMES SERVICE & and in "AS IS" condition. I3157931 Published in the Care Company helps S. Water St., Wilming- FOR RENT REPAIRS The sale is further subject Free Press Newspapers, the elderly maintain ton. Please wear a to confirmation by the Wed., Oct. 14, 21 and 28, their independence by mask. 2 or 3 BR mobile court. Upon payment in full 2020. providing in-home homes available for Bohac of the amount bid, the pur- companionship and rent or sale. Rent Hall Rental - Available Dirtworks other non-medical as- from $799-$899. In- STORAGE for parties, showers & sistance with Activities cludes water, sewer & Excavating SERVICE & meetings. Seats 100 of Daily Living. Train- trash removal. Please Grading people, full kitchen REPAIRS ing is provided as well call & talk to Eric available. If interested Dozer Work as a competitive sal- about financing op- call New Hope Presby- Sand * Gravel Mike Collins Roofing, ary and employer tions. Call terian Church in Coal re-shingles and modi- matching IRA. Apply 815-237-2290 for Black Dirt City, 815-634-8332. ch fied rubber and gutter online today at more information. Private Ponds 27a-tfn cleaning, aluminum gut- https://fofseniorcare.er cc39a-46b and Lakes ter screen, blown-in in- sp.biz/employment or Well seasoned oak fire- Ditch Cleaning sulation in attics. call 815-836-2635. wood, $100.00, face INSULATION. Get a cc41a-44b PETS Demolition cord, 815-791-4596. Office: free estimate for blown ca40a-43b Large Selection of Dog in insulation for attics Dawn of a New Day and Cat Food, treats, 815-458-2542 from Mike Collins Roof- Care Center in Mazon, Samsung DLP 61" accessories, health Cell Phones: ing. Keep your house is now hiring qualified HDTV. Works great, no aids, clothing, Birthday 405-5981 - John cooler in summertime teachers. Call now, damage. $200. Call 815- treats, wall art, jewelry, 791-0153 - John Jr. and warmer in the win- 815-448-2530. cc43a-46b 954-4647. cc43a-44b gifts, greeting cards 791-0750 - Justen ter. lic # 104.007296. and Home of Fritters for Ask for Mike at Critters Pet Treats. Bradley Pest Control 815-730-1303. cc41b-12a New! Brew and Chew Termite/Pest Specialist. WANTED Dog Treats. Trinity Ron’s Drywall, Hang, Real estate inspection Barkery 240 W. Balti- Tape & Paint, 25 years Rodent Control more Wilmington., Il experience. Reason- and Exclusion 60481 815-476-5104 able rates including dry- Call Phil at slewis@trinity- wall repairs, plaster re- 815-405-5020 services.org. ch22b-tfn pairs, cracks, holes, & cc42a-42a patches. Carpenter available by request. 815- Julie’s Remodeling SERVICE & 549-5136. cc40a-51b REPAIRS Siding, soffit, roof re- pairs, painting,welding repairs, seamless gut- A Thousand ters, fencing, tree re- Words moval, lawn care, Com- SITUATIONS plete Handyman serv- WANTED Photography ice! Bonded and In- sured, 20 yrs., call 385 N. Second Ave. Wanted: 815-791-5731. cc28b Coal City Stories about local peo- Mandy Eaton ple, organizations and 815-791-2913 Alling Handyman events. If you know a Service neighbor with an inter- Over 30 yrs. exp., call esting hobby, collection Deb’s Way Trucking Jason for all your reno- or cause, give the edi- Gravel, dirt & sand. 6- vations or repairs, fully tor a call at 1-815-634- wheeler loads only. Call insured, fast service, 0315 or 1-815-476-7966. or text Deb at 815-693- 815-263-6081. cc40a-43b tfn/47b 5870. cc36b-49a WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Free Press Advocate, The Braidwood Journal, The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 13 Taking the anti-Madigan route has its bumps After Illinois House Howard refused to officials have Howard's campaign is behind Speaker Michael Madigan keep silent. In the admitted that a formal complaint filed with appeared in all but actual face of threats and they bribed the Illinois State Board of name in ComEd's deferred intimidation from some of Elections. The complaint federal prosecution agree- fellow Democrats, Madigan's clos- alleges that the Illinois ment, Rep. Terra Costa Howard State est allies to get a Republican Party has made in- (D-Glen Ellyn) was one of the Representative rate hike that's kind contributions of 10 mail- first Democratic state Terra Costa costing Illinois ings on behalf of Breen's cam- Representatives to call on him Howard did the customers mil- paign going back to early to resign without the qualify- right thing: She lions of dollars. August, but at least six have yet ing "if he did it" language. stood up and Madigan's failed to be disclosed by Breen. The And the freshman called on Madigan leadership dam- Breen campaign denied all Democratic legislator has been to step down, ages our state's wrongdoing and noted some breaking pretty much all now." reputation, ham- mailers were reported last precedent the past month or The second pers economic week. so by putting significant cam- mailer, which hit growth, and dis- Breen's mailers, unsur- paign money where her mouth the boxes around the first of courages people from invest- prisingly, have tried to weld is. the month, was entitled "Why I ing in Illinois. It's time to set a Costa Howard to Madigan. In Madigan's political opera- called for Speaker Madigan to new course." one, recipients were told that tion has continued to back resign." Yikes. Costa Howard "lied to you Costa Howard against former "As a mom, I've heard the A Democratic Party of about her ties to Madigan and Rep. Peter Breen (R-Lombard), classic 'Everyone else is doing Illinois spokesperson declined corruption," adding that she albeit at nowhere near the it!'" the mailer explains. "But comment, but said the mailers "is still taking Madigan's amount that most other as a legislator it was the oppo- were not a surprise. Whatever money." Democratic incumbents in dif- site 'No one is doing it!' I works, I suppose. She won't be "According to recently ficult reelection battles have couldn't believe it. As a mom, voting for Madigan's reelec- uncovered FBI files," another received, perhaps because she this was my chance to show my tion, but not many Democrats mailer claimed, "top Madigan won her last race by 7 points. daughters what it means to do want to see a return of the lieutenant Mike McClain That very limited Madigan what's right." ultra-conservative Breen, who raised money for Terra as part support ostensibly cost her the The third mailer landed a is a nationally prominent pro- of a pay-for-play 'secret proj- endorsement of the Chicago week later and focused on leg- life attorney and was the ect.'" The footnote points to a Tribune editorial board, but islative redistricting, a process House Republican floor leader Tribune story about McClain Costa Howard has been send- that Madigan has perfected. until he lost reelection two raising money for unnamed ing out her own mailers under "Corrupt politicians draw years ago. House Democratic candidates. the media's radar screen blast- maps that take away the power Whatever the case, a cam- "Terra's money man McClain ing Madigan for the last few of your vote," the reader is paign like this is unprecedent- rewarded another Madigan weeks. informed. "Terra Costa ed in Illinois. No incumbent operative for covering up a "For decades, Speaker Howard wants to give the House Democrat has ever been rape in Champaign, Illinois." Mike Madigan has ruled the power back to us!" so openly hostile to Madigan It's not hard to see why Illinois House of The fourth mailer landing in sustained paid advertising. Costa Howard is taking the Representatives with an iron a few days ago. Ever. I mean, the Senate anti-Madigan route. fist," boomed the first such "Since 1971 Mike Madigan Democrats caught tremendous Rich Miller also publishes mailer, which landed in late has had Illinois on the same heat from unions when they Capitol Fax, a daily political September. "But when ComEd path," read the headline. ran TV ads calling for leader- newsletter, and CapitolFax. admitted to bribing Madigan "Speaker Mike Madigan is ship term limits two years ago com. associates for years, with implicated in yet another and had to pull them down or money they got from your Illinois corruption and bribery face retaliation. electric bills, Terra Costa scandal. This time, ComEd In other news, Costa

Illinois unemployment claims continue to rise The pandemic and associated restric- by an 8% decrease in continued unem- IDES reported Friday, Oct. 16 that the tions continue to wreak havoc on the state ployment claims, which hit 447,060 for the state had a 10.2% unemployment rate in and national economy, as the Illinois week. Department of Employment Security Nationally, there were 898,000 new September. That was higher than the reported that 47,528 Illinoisans filed first- unemployment claims for the week, an national unemployment rate of 7.9% for time unemployment claims for the week increase of 53,000 or 6% from the previous ending Oct. 10, an increase of 31% from week, according to the U.S. Department of the month, and nearly triple the 3.7% rate the previous week. That was accompanied Labor. the state saw in September one year ago. The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 14 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM Unit 1 Schools honor Students of the Week

MACKENZIE CROXTON CARTER GILL KEIRSTEN RAGLAND CALLEIGHVANDEWERKEN KEVIN BITNER MILEY CVITANOVICH DANNY FITE CLAIRE OLSON Middle School Middle School Middle School Middle School Intermediate School Intermediate School Intermediate School Intermediate School

LUCA CHELLINO SYDNEY JONES ANTHONY VENEGAS BRODY BITNER EMMA HAMILTON JACOB SHEEDY ELOUISE BROWN CODY OLSON Intermediate School Intermediate School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School

BLAKE JONES JELENIE OPYD CALEB HALL HENRY FRITZ AUTUMN DECKER CAYLEE LYNN ASHLYN CHAPMAN SADIE JONES Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Elementary School Early Childhood Center

EVELYN O’BERT MICHAEL MORETTI PIERCE YARSHEN LANDON HARDY GREYSON EATON KEELEY CONRATH PAISLEY TERREL KRYSTAL KELLY Early Childhood Center Early Childhood Center Early Childhood Center Early Childhood Center Early Childhood Center Early Childhood Center Early Childhood Center Early Childhood Center

Cops answer the calls Post 1336 observes

STAFF REPORT Heritage Day

Police activity in the village of Coal City continues to steadily increase with the number of calls growing by 5.4% between August and September. MARIELLA GONZALEZ TRISTAN JOHNSTON In the first month of the pandemic [March to April] the number of calls Early Childhood Center Early Childhood Center for service handled by Coal City Police Department officers dropped 42%. Since a low in April—281 calls—the total number of calls handled by offi- cers has continued to increase with a five-month average of 426 calls. According to the department’s monthly report to the Village Board, officer activity during September was 526 calls including 340 officer-initiat- ed calls, up from 316 in August and 235 in July. Although the department continues to see increases in calls for service, overall activity remains below officer activity in the first couple of months of the year. To date, the department has handled 4,299 calls—officer initiat- ed and requested response—1,899 of those resulted in a formal report. In the month of September, 282 calls resulted in a report. Officers also filed seven criminal charges, issued 15 ordinance violations and handed out 52 traffic citations based on 170 stops. KENNEDY ENERSON KENLEY DEARTH Early Childhood Center Early Childhood Center Courtesy photo SATURDAY, OCT. 3 proved to be an overcast and chilly day for the Foreclosure sale of 3770 Will Court Foreclosure notice of 1320 W. Prairie Road GFWC-IL Coal City Junior Women's Club Heritage Day held in Carbon Hill Park. Regardless of the weather, St. Juvin Post 1336 PUBLIC NOTICE set up its booth to hold the annual free flag raffle event along with PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 13TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 13TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT GRUNDY COUNTY - MORRIS, ILLINOIS its 50/50 fundraising raffle. Coal City resident Deb Hazlett was the GRUNDY COUNTY - MORRIS, ILLINOIS THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF OTTAWA Plaintiff, -v.- JESSICA J. ALLEN A/K/A JES- lucky winner of the U.S. Flag kit and Nancy Wynn, of Goose Lake, MILL CITY MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2017-1, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SICA ALLEN et al Defendant, 2020CH30 won the 50/50 raffle and gener- SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST AS TRUSTEE, Plaintiff, NOTICE OF SALE -v.- PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure ously donated her winnings DAVID BZDILL, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA M. BEA- and Sale entered in the above cause on September 18, 2020, an agent for The Judicial back to Post 1336. ZLEY A/K/A LINDA BEAZLEY, UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW AND LEGATEES OF LINDA Sales Corporation, will at 9:00 AM on November 4, 2020, at the Grundy County Coal Bin to dispose M. BEAZLEY A/K/A LINDA BEAZLEY, ALLEN REYNOLDS, ERIC BEAZLEY, LUKE BEA- Courthouse, 111 East Washington Street front door entrance, MORRIS, IL, 60450, sell at ZLEY, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendant a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: of property 2019 CH 33 PART OF THE WEST HALF OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 29, NOTICE OF SALE TOWNSHIP 32 NORTH, RANGE 7 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID PUBLIC NOTICE Laki Hawaiian Ice files as and Sale entered in the above cause on August 7, 2020, an agent for The Judicial Sales WEST HALF OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER SECTION: THENCE DUE WEST 376.40 LEGAL NOTICE Corporation, will at 9:00 AM on November 18, 2020, at the Grundy County Courthouse, FEET ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SOUTHEAST QUARTER SECTION TO A Notice is hereby given, that pursuant new business 111 East Washington Street front door entrance, MORRIS, IL, 60450, sell at a public sale POINT: THENCE NORTH 0 DEGREES 26' 20'' EAST 99.50 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE to Section 40 of the Self-Storage Facility NORTH 27 DEGREES 28' 50'' EAST 43.95 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE SOUTH 87 to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Act, State of Illinois, a sale or other dispo- DEGREES 07' 00'' EAST 62.65 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 2 DEGREES 23' sition of property by COAL BIN STORAGE LOT 4 IN WILLOW RIDGE SUBDIVISION IN THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION LEGAL NOTICE 20'' EAST 70.65 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 33' 10'' EAST INC will be held at www.BID13.com, auc- 16, TOWNSHIP 33 NORTH RANGE 7 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, Assumed Name 291.05 FEET TO A POINT ON THE EAST LINE OF SAID WEST HALF OF THE SOUTH- tion ending on October 28, 2020 at 1 p.m. Publication Notice ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED MARCH 25, 1988 IN PLAT CABI- EAST QUARTER SECTION, THENCE SOUTH 0 DEGREES 20' 30'' WEST 203.64 FEET to sell or dispose of the personal property Public Notice is hereby given that on NET F AT SLIDE 123 AS DOCUMENT# 292904 IN GRUNDY COUNTY, ILLINOIS. ALONG SAID EAST LINE OF THE WEST HALF OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER SEC- of the following person, John Haney, 4 October 13, A.D. 2020, a certificate was Commonly known as 3770 WILL COURT, MORRIS, IL 60450 TION TO A POINT OF BEGINNING, ALL SITUATED IN MAZON TOWNSHIP; IN Balmoral, Diamond, IL 60416, Unit B13, to filed in the Office of the County Clerk of Property Index No. 05-16-226-016 GRUNDY COUNTY, ILLINOIS. enforce a lien for storage pursuant to the Grundy County, Illinois, setting forth names The real estate is improved with a single family residence. Commonly known as 1320 W PRAIRIE ROAD, MAZON, IL 60444 self-storage facility act, in the amount of and post-office addresses of all of the per- The judgment amount was $212,795.48. Property Index No. 08-29-400-002 $420, plus attorney fees and costs. sons owning, conducting and transacting Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale The real estate is improved with a residence. Published in the Coal City Courant the business known as Laki Hawaiian Ice, payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale on Oct. 14 an 21, 2020. 190 E. Southmor Rd., Morris, IL 60450. balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The Dated this 13th day of October, A.D. 2020. Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Kay T Olson, Grundy County Clerk each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for Published in the Coal City Courant in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, on Oct. 21, 28 and Nov. 4, 2020. by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale Attorney Black files whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject prop- or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate Stangland estate erty is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject prop- claim notice against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or erty is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is fur- against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or Hometown Storage to ther subject to confirmation by the court. quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is fur- ther subject to confirmation by the court. PUBLIC NOTICE Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of IN THE CIRCUIT COURT dispose of property Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. OF THE THIRTEENTH The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation JUDICIAL CIRCUIT as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court LEGAL NOTICE as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court GRUNDY COUNTY - IN PROBATE file to verify all information. Notice of Lien file to verify all information. No. 2020 P 93 In the Matter of the Estate of Hometown Storage, 2920 E. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure Robert J. Stangland, Division St., Diamond, IL 60416, 815-634- sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by Deceased 3333 hereby is asserting a Possessory The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a con- The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a con- CLAIM NOTICE Lien in pursuant to your contract and the dominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at dominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at NOTICE is given to creditors of the State of Illinois Self-Service Facility Act. the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Tenant: Fredrick W. Otte, PO Box Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). death of Robert J. Stangland. Letters of Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). office as Independent Executor were 820,Portage, WI 53901, Unit #44. IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO If unpaid rental charges, late fees REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSES- issued to Betty J. Standland, 365 Twilight REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSES- Drive, Morris, Illinois 60450, whose attor- and associated charges are not paid for in SION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE SION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE ney is DONALD F.. BLACK, BLACK & full by Oct. 31, 2020 the property will be FORECLOSURE LAW. FORECLOSURE LAW. BLACK, 201 Liberty Street, Suite 211, sold to satisfy the lien. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver's license, You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver's license, Morris, Illinois 60450. Published in the Coal City Courant passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook Claims against the estate may be on Oct. 14 and 21, 2020. County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Court Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. at Grundy County Courthouse, 111 E. For information, JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC Plaintiff's For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff's Washington St., Morris, IL 60450, with the Attorneys, 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite #1125, Chicago, IL, 60606 (312) 541-9710. Please Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 representative, or both, within six months refer to file number 19-6979. (630) 794-9876 from the date of the first publication of this Hometown Storage to THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION, One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION notice or, if mailing or delivery of a notice is Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE required by Section 5/18-3 of the Probate dispose of property You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day sta- You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day sta- Act of 1975, the date stated in that notice. tus report of pending sales. tus report of pending sales. Any claim not filed on or before that date is CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC barred. Copies of a claim filed with the LEGAL NOTICE 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite #1125 clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Notice of Lien BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 Chicago IL, 60606 representative and to the attorney within 10 Hometown Storage, 2920 E. 630-794-5300 Division St., Diamond, IL 60416, 815-634- 312-541-9710 days after it has been filed. E-Mail: [email protected] BETTY J. STANGLAND 3333 hereby is asserting a Possessory E-Mail: [email protected] Attorney File No. 14-20-04486 INDEPENDENT EXECUTOR Lien in pursuant to your contract and the Attorney File No. 19-6979 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Donald F. Black, #218081 State of Illinois Self-Service Facility Act. Case Number: 2019 CH 33 Case Number: 2020CH30 Black & Black Lawyers Tenant: Jamie C. Adcock, 2150 E. TJSC#: 40-2212 TJSC#: 40-2248 201 Liberty Street Clark St., Diamond, IL 60416, Unit#100. NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Suite 211 If unpaid rental charges, late fees Plaintiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any Plaintiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any P.O. Box 148 and associated charges are not paid for in information obtained will be used for that purpose. information obtained will be used for that purpose. Morris, IL 60450 full by Oct. 31, 2020 the property will be Case # 2019 CH 33 Case # 2020CH30 815-942-0594 sold to satisfy the lien. I3157931 I3157238 Published in the Coal City Courant Published in the Coal City Courant Published in the Coal City Courant on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 21 and 28, 2020. Published in the Coal City Courant on Wednesday, October 7, 14 and 21, 2020. on Oct. 14, 21 and 28, 2020. on Oct. 14 and 21, 2020. WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 15

File Photo File Photo COAL CITY 2012 GRADUATE Matt Burchfield was selected by Coal City Courant readers to be a tight COAL CITY COURANT READERS selected Coal City senior Logan Miller to be on the all-time Coal City end on the all-time Coaler fantasy football team. football fantasy team.

Coal City Courant readers help develop Coal City ‘dream team’ BY SHAWN LONG and Brad Schmitt make up Offensive Linemen O’Bert was a powerful receiver. The punter picks were STAFF WRITER their receiving corps. The center will be Josh defensive linemen and play At the slot corner spot, our 2002 graduate Dan Tucker and Halloran is a smaller target Hinkelman, who led the 2005 proved it on the field as he is readers suggested Brandon Littleton. With the NFL holding at right around 5-10 but he was team’s offensive line, paving tied for the team-lead with Howard or Joe Van Duyne. Both guys had strong legs Fantasy Football every year, it fast, playing like a true slot the way for over 1,500 yards eight fumble recoveries. He Howard, who played with and could boom the ball down sparked a “what if” scenario. receiver (Julian Edelman). rushing and over 1,500 yards and Watson would be good on the 2004-05 Coalers, would be the field that more times than What if the Coal City foot- Halloran is the leading rushing during their near title. those goal line situations to a great slot option as he fin- not would force the opposing ball program could choose receiver for Coal City, snaring Matt Long graduated from plug the middle and stuff the ished with 12 career intercep- offense to have to drive the ball players from the past to form a 77 passes for 1,594 career yards CCHS in 2015. He played cen- ballcarrier in the backfield. tions. down the field and score from dream team? from Onsen. ter and opened holes for Linebackers VanDuyne, who was a big deep in their own territory. We polled Coal City Arndt is 6-3 215 and that Dibble. Our readers thought Linebacker picks includ- part of Coal City’s 1993-94 Littleton had the most Courant readers for input and made him an excellent target he’d be a great second option ed: Ben Sisk, Matt Powell and championship team, would yardage accumulated on punts after two weeks came up with a for Jeffrey Hodgen to throw to. for center. Nate Natyshok with Kyle Lardi, also be a great option as he has with 4,275 yards on 113 punts dream team made up of all- During his senior year, The picks for guard are and Austin Pullara earning 11 career interceptions. with an average of almost 38 time Coaler standouts. Hodgen threw to Arndt 30 Keegan Grant and Logan honorable mention. Safeties yards per punt (37.83). Quarterback times for 534 yards and seven Miller. Sisk, Powell and Natyshok Our readers suggested Tucker ended up punting At quarterback, readers touchdowns. Arndt is currently Keegan, who played for are listed as the top three tack- Brad Littleton and Brian the ball only 46 times for 1,774 selected passing leader Cody second on the all-time receiv- the Coalers from 2002-05 was a le leaders so there’s a good rea- Naiden would be good options yards with an average of well Onsen. ing yards list at Coal City, massive offensive lineman at son our readers picked them. to fill the safety roles. over 38 yards per kick (38.65). Onsen played for the catching 72 passes for 1,202 6-4 289 lbs. and strong too. As All players were excellent Littleton, who graduated The kick returner would Coalers from 2009-12, passing yards. previously reported Grant lift- at playing sideline to sideline. in 2016, finished with 11 career be none other than 1994 grad- for 3,578 yards with 2,235 yards Schmitt would be our ed a 575 deadlift and a 560 Natyshok, who finished interceptions, leading us to uate Craig VanDuyne. and 28 passing touchdowns third option but our number squat to shatter school records. with 273 tackles, will be slotted believe he was not only good at VanDuyne is the top kick returner in school history, hav- coming during his senior sea- two wide receiver on the edge He was great at opening holes at outside linebacker because covering man-to-man but also for Smith. ing topped 700 return yards son when the Coalers went 4-5. while Halloran would play in of how quick he was to get to very good at jumping routes. Miller still plays guard for with 772 career return yards. As Their second string quar- the slot. the football. Naiden, who was a 2006 Schmitt led a 14-0 1993 the Coalers. He’s a senior and mentioned in the state record terback would be 2010 gradu- Sisk, who leads with 354 graduate from Coal City High state championship team. He he’s a big reason that Daniel story, he is currently 13th on ate Colt Smith, who passed for tackles, will play middle line- School, finished with nine accumulated 1,088 career Jezik broke for well over 2,000 the list for all-time kick return 2,317 yards, completing backer because he is the best career interceptions so we’d be receiving yards and is an excel- yards rushing to lead the entire yardage. 57.33% of his passes. tackler on the defense. leaving the middle of the field lent option to go to. state. At 6-5 290 lbs. Miller is And Powell, who ended up in some pretty sure-handed Timm Kroeger would be Running backs Tight End our readers pick for the other with 342 stops, will be slotted defenders. on the other side returning Daniel Jezik and Zach Matt Burchfield, who guard spot. as the other linebacker with Specialists kicks, accumulating 541 all- Smith are top picks for running graduated in 2012, presented a The tackle picks were sen- the speed to run any play Kicker picks included Ben time kick return yards. Kroeger backs. big target for Onsen to throw ior Daniel Cueller and 2020 down. Rouse and David Druse was a 2008 graduate, who used Jezik, who ran for a career- the ball to. He ended up snar- graduate Blake Strnad. Lardi, who finished with Rouse was a 2006 gradu- his small stature to hide leading 3,043 yards, would be ing 52 balls in his Coaler career. Cueller and Strnad worked 262 tackles, will be a backup to ate, who converted on 50 of his maneuver through the the halfback while Smith, who He would be a perfect tight end together with Miller to ensure Powell or Natyshok. 58 point after kicks during the defense. His speed helped him amassed 3,028 yards from with the catches he made. He Jezik, and other Coaler runners And Pullara, who ended 2005 season. He also made too. 2004-06, is the first and second had that height and great hand had room to run, paving the up with 253 career tackles four field goals with a long of At punt returner, our read- down back. eye coordination to go up and way for 3,314 yards rushing which is currently sixth best, 48 yards. Rouse boomed a punt ers selected Tucker, who Jack Dibble, who graduat- make those tough catches. and 35 rushing will be a backup for Sisk. 73 yards during a the title game finnished with 558 career punt ed in 2014 and gained 2,720 Their second tight end touchdowns.They were not Corners against Lombard Montini in return yardage which would career rushing yards, would selection was Ryan Wharrie, only good run blockers but Schmitt was selected as 2004 as he was also used as a put him 10th on the state list was their third selection for who has the fourth most they protected Payton the number one corner and for punter. for total punt return yardage in some depth at the running receiving yards in Coaler histo- Hutchings, who threw for right a good reason. He finished his Druse, who graduated in a career. back position. Dibble would ry with 999 on 74 receptions. at 1,000 yards with 17 touch- high school career with 15 2010, is actually on the state A backup for punt return- most likely play in the third Wharrie was known as being downs. He hardly ever got interceptions. record list, hitting four field er was Howard, who would not and fourth quarters. Either sure-handed. That is what a sacked. Rich Scerine, who finished goals in a game. He’s currently be a bad option as he’s current- way, whichever running back tight end is supposed to be so Edge Rushers with 12 career interceptions, third.The field goals were from ly second on the list for punt plays, they’ll produce. our readers think Wharrie The defensive end picks was picked as the number two 42,31, 31 and 33 yards so he return yardage with 503. Wide Receivers would make a tremendous included 2020 graduate Brady corner that will be slotted on was definitely efficient and Matt Halloran, Nick Arndt addition at the tight end spot. Crawford and Jacob Jasnosz. every team’s number two could also hit the long ones. The two were top tacklers on a Coal City semifinal foot- ball team, who fell to Richmond-Burton. The defense itself gave up just 124 points in 13 games. That is a little over nine points per game. Crawford was quick to get around the tackle and also had some power to bust through to get to the quarterback while Jasnosz used the bull rush to get to the quarterback on countless occasions. Crawford finished his two years on varsity with 131 total tackles with eight sacks and one fumble recovery along with a pick six. Jasnosz was a two-year starter on defense as well, fin- ishing with 113 total tackles, eight sacks and one fumble recovery. Defensive Tackles Our readers selected 2005 graduate Matt Watson and Coal City assistant wrestling coach Nick O’Bert to be our defensive linemen. Watson, who was 6-3 240, was just a beast inside, using that lower body power to bar- rel his way to the quarterback. During their 2004-05 state runner-up year, Watson com- piled 19 sacks with 123 total tackles. He finished his high school career with 232 tackles. The Coal City Courant, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, page 16 WWW.FREEPRESSNEWSPAPERS.COM

IHSA to allow spring, summer athletes to play on club teams simultaneously The Illinois High School sports as scheduled. summer season sports. school coaches and non-school team “Given the unique challenges of Association (IHSA) Board of Directors “We believe we have a plan to do Winter sports (basketball, coaches to begin communication on this school year, it remains important met virtually Monday, to provide a so safely and want to provide IDPH wrestling, boys swimming & diving, how they can collaboratively resolve for our Board to be flexible and cre- timetable on winter sports decisions, with ample time to review the winter cheerleading, dance, bowling, girls scheduling conflicts.” ative in seeking participation oppor- and voted on a by-law change that sports plans, and supportive data, we gymnastics), which remain in their Sports competing in the IHSA’s tunities for students,” said IHSA would allow spring and summer ath- have provided them. We expect to traditional season, will have no 2021 spring season (football, boys Board Vice-President Robert Nolting, letes to play club ball simultaneously. have a response from IDPH with final accommodation related to the by-law. soccer, girls volleyball) will be granted the Principal at Andrew High School The Board said winter sports recommendations for winter sport “The Board determined it was the accommodation to participate in Tinley Park. “From my perspective, details will be given October 28. plans, including any accommoda- prudent to make modifications to the simultaneously on school teams and I am less worried about teams com- “We understand that student- tions and postseason plans, by independent team by-law for the non-school teams throughout the peting for conference or postseason athletes, coaches, parents, officials, October 26. We will then reconvene sports that were displaced from their duration of their high school season titles this year. The goal is to get kids and fans are anxious to learn more our Board to officially vote and traditional high school season,” said (Feb. 15-May 1). back being active to benefit their details about the plans for IHSA win- announce that information shortly Anderson. “They also came up with Athletes competing in the 2021 mental and physical well-being. ter sports,” said IHSA Executive thereafter.” what we believe is a reasonable com- summer season (baseball, softball, These (independent team) by-laws Director Craig Anderson. “We feel like The Board’s accommodation to promise for summer sports. The track & field, girls soccer, boys volley- aim to preserve competitive equity, we are making positive strides in our the IHSA Independent Team By-law Board is hopeful that the high school ball, lacrosse, boys tennis) can also but for this school year, we feel the discussions with the Illinois (3.100) will be applicable for the 2020- teams will be given priority when play in league ball beginning on June right decision is to provide an accom- Department of Public Health (IDPH) 21 school year only and will grant conflicts occurs. We believe making a 4. The summer season is slated to run modation that maximizes participa- to be allowed to conduct IHSA winter specific exemptions to spring and modification now will allow high from April 19 to June 26. tion.” Coal City says farewell to their golf seniors, tennis senior

Courtesy Photo Courtesy Photo LEVI COUNTERMAN is escorted by his parents Caleb and Jessica CONNOR GASS is with his parents Troy Gass and Jill Steffes dur- Courtesy Photo Counterman during Coal City golf senior night at Cinder Ridge ing Coal City golf senior night. Connor played golf due to the foot- DERRICK MUELLER is with his mother Tammy Mueller during sen- Golf Course. This was Levi’s first year playing golf. He also plays ball season being postponed to become one of the top 12 golfers ior night at Coal City. He played golf for two seasons. He also par- soccer and tennis. After high school, he plans to attend a four-year in the Illinois Central Eight Conference. He wants to attend a four- ticipated in Scholastic Bowl for three years and baseball for two. university to pursue a degree in engineering. year university to study engineering. Derrick plans to study civil engineering in college.

COAL CITY SENIOR Skyler Wickiser is escorted by her parents Kristina and Denny Wickiser during tennis senior night. Skyler has been a member of the tennis squad for four years. She is involved Courtesy Photo Courtesy Photo in Student Council, Varsity Tennis, Varsity Poms, Student CADEN HENNESSY is accompanied by his parents (from left) TYLER JOHNSON is escorted by his parents Tonya and Jeff Ambassadors, Debate Club, Ping Pong Club, National Honors Ronette Ksiazak and Pat Hennessy during Coal City golf senior Johnson during golf senior night. Tyler has been a member of the Society, Spanish Honors Society, Link Leaders, Prom Committee, night. Caden joined the golf team in lieu of the football season Coaler golf team for four years, becoming a two-time IHSA sec- Coalers with Character, Math Team, FBLA, GSA and model con- being postponed. He is involved in the musical, madrigals, plays tional qualifier, an All-Conference golfer and currently one of the gress. She plans to attend a four-year university to major in soci- football, wrestling and track and field. After graduating, he plans to top three golfers in the Illinois Central Eight Conference. He has ology with a minor in political science. After college, she plans to attend Joliet Junior College. After earning an associate’s degree in also played tennis for three years. He plans to attend Joliet Junior attend law school to become a children’s custody and adoption law enforcement, he plans to transfer to a four year university to College to enroll in the operator/industrial maintenance program. lawyer. study criminal justice.

The Coalers would be making 10th consecutive playoff appearance BY SHAWN LONG me believe Coal City would be a need to inflate the giant surrounding Illinois, we’ll not this season, he’ll get his time to season. STAFF WRITER getting ready for their 10th Coaler helmet and stock up on have had to deal with the win- shine. He not only logged time Harvey was the third lead- straight playoff appearance. fireworks? The way I see it now ter weather that still will be as a quarterback but as a ing rusher last year for Coal Under normal circum- Coal City lost a talented is the pregame ritual will be around probably through the defensive back as well. He City with 208 yards and three stances the Coalers would be group of seniors that led them players and coaches lining up end of March. recorded 29 tackles, two TFLs, touchdowns on 30 carries. one week away from vying for to a 12-1 record, bowing out in to be tested for covid-19 symp- It’s time we all might want two interceptions and a fum- However, he was known well the football playoffs. But the semifinals. But the players toms. to shop fo a good pair of snow ble recovery so he will again for what he did on the other thanks to the governor and the who are about to be seniors are And what happens when a boots. see time as the number two side of the ball. He played side- just as good. player tests positive on a team. According to the Farmer’s corner. line to sideline as the team’s Illinois Health Dept, football Spring football just won’t Will that require the entire Almanac, this coming year in starting outside linebacker, won’t be played until at least You’ll see a skill player be the same. team to quarantine and if so, 2021 is supposed to be an El who can just do-it-all in Asa whipping down opposing ball February (we hope) as long as Likely everyone on the for two games? It’s not likely Nino year which will mean a Cooper, who will play wide carriers with great force. the spread of the coronavirus is sidelines and in the stands will they’ll shut the entire season colder winter for Illinois and receiver, running back while Harvey was second on the in check. likely have to wear masks, that down but they might if there is more precipitation. also returning the punts and team in tackles with 90 as a The “what if” factor, as in is if they even allow fans in the an outbreak. What about the actual kicks. sophomore. He made 9.0 TFLs, what if the Coalers had been stands. If fall ball had been temperature? During the 2018 season, one sack and picked off four allowed to play fall ball, makes Without fans will there be allowed, like in the four states It’s in the IHSA by-laws not Cooper played a significant passes, scoring one defensive to allow games in tempera- amount as a sophomore, accu- touchdown on a pick six. tures under 40 degrees. That mulating 554 all-purpose yards Gass ran for 132 and a will a huge factor if the IHSA with eight overall touchdowns. score, busting for five yards a doesn’t adjust that by-law. In During the 2019 season, pop while Rijske was near five February, Illinois is lucky to get Cooper was a problem for yards a carry, running six times temperatures in the 20s. They defenses as Hutchings’ num- for 29 yards. won’t get 40s until later on in ber one target, catching 24 Junior Contrerez ran the the spring. passes for a team-high, 331 ball 16 times for 60 yards. According the Weather- yards. He rushed for 131 and Kyle Burch will be a senior us.com, the average tempera- accumulated 396 return yards, at the tight end role as he ture for Illinois in February last scoring six overall touchdowns logged six catches with two year was 15 degrees. March (three receiving, two rushing touchdowns. Burch also didn’t get much better with and one pick six). played an outside linebacker temperatures reaching 26-36 Asa was not only a position opposite to Harvey, degrees. collecting 46 tackles with a tremendous weapon on the The state has remained sack to go along with it. offensive side of the ball but a steadfast on its ruling of mov- There’s very good chance starting corner as well, coming ing fall sports to the spring. the Coalers will be competitive We can’t change that. All up with 26 tackles, three tack- with the Illinois Central Eight we can do now is speculate on les for a loss and an intercep- Conference. what will been and what might tion for a touchdown. When Coal City comes out be when the players take the Cooper will definitely be in the spring, expect a tough field in five months. up for the challenge when that team, who will always play like We suspect Griffin time comes. they’ve got somethiing to Johnson will be leading the If the Coalers were playing prove. offense at quarterback. Last right now, they’d have an One thing is certain year Griffin completed 1-of-2 attack of junior Ashton Harvey, though is that even though passes for 17 yards and a senior Connor Gass and senior they’ll still be playing under touchdown. Connor Rijiske manning the the same Friday Night lights, He was the backup to backfield duties. They may use spring football just won’t feel Payton Hutchings who rarely junior Antonio Contrerez as the same. ever came out of the game but well but those are the backs that logged the most time last