The Marseilles City Council Wednesday night voted to modify the city code by adding a dedicated section on “charter transportation”. This amendment outlines a specific set of procedures to be adhered to in the event of a substantial influx of migrants into town. Marseilles is just one of several communities in the shadow of Chicago taking steps to establish policies for managing migrant arrivals. Commissioner Melissa Small briefed the council about a conference call involving La Salle County municipalities and government agencies as she and Police Chief Brian Faber explored options for addressing the potential scenario of migrants redirecting away from Chicago and the suburbs. Governor JB Pritzker said Wednesday that over 60 buses transported about 2,500 migrants from Texas into Chicago and the suburbs between December 20th and 27th.
———————————————————————
The state of Illinois is adding an intake center for migrants arriving in Chicago. The intake center will be located at the city’s bus landing zone and will include six heated tents now under construction. The center is expected to open in the coming weeks. Work also continues this week on a 220-person migrant shelter in the Little Village neighborhood, at the site of a former CVS. The shelter is scheduled to open this month.
———————————————————————
The Census Bureau is approving Illinois’ request to have nearly 47-thousand Illinoisans included in future population estimates. The state requested a review following findings of inaccurately low counts in certain areas, including care homes or senior living facilities and dormitory settings. The approval by the U.S. Census Bureau ensures the state will receive a proportionate share of the 675 billion dollars in annual funds distributed to states each year.
———————————————————————
The landmark racketeering trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan scheduled to begin in April is now being delayed by six months. Madigan appeared in court yesterday as a judge postponed the trial to October 8th. The delay was granted after the U.S. Supreme Court decided to take up a corruption case out of Northwest Indiana. A decision from the high court overturning that conviction could set new rules for the federal bribery statute. Madigan and longtime confidant, Michael McClain, face racketeering charges accusing them of conspiring to participate in an array of bribery and extortion schemes from 2011 to 2019.
————————————————————————
January is Radon awareness month and the LaSalle County Health Department urges residents to assess the radon levels in their homes, as radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas found in soil, can infiltrate buildings through small foundation gaps, accumulating unnoticed in the air. With no discernible taste, smell, or color, radon can only be detected through testing, crucial for identifying potential health risks. The ideal time for testing is during colder weather when windows and doors are typically closed. The LaSalle County Health Department, supported by an IEMA grant, provides free radon test kits to residents, available for pickup during regular business hours. Staff members offer assistance in kit usage and share information on radon, measurement, and mitigation. For further details or to obtain a radon test kit, contact the LaSalle County Health Department at (815) 433-3366.
———————————————————————
First State Bank announced that current executive vice president, Kirk Ross, will take over as president and CEO of the bank beginning Jan. 10. Ross began working with First State Bank in 1994 as an Assistant Vice President and Ag. Loan Officer. Current president/CEO, Timothy J. McConville, is leaving the position to transition to president/CEO of Tri-County Financial Group, the holding company of First State Bank. McConville’s career began at First State Bank in 1978 as an agricultural representative and became president/CEO of the bank in 1994. McConville will continue to serve as a director of First State Bank’s board as president/CEO of Tri-County Financial.
———————————————————————
In LaSalle County Circuit Court this week, three people were formally charged with drug-related offenses. 23-year-old Zachary Bigott of Earlville is accused of unlawfully delivering a controlled substance and was arrested on December 14 for an incident in October involving less than 15 grams of cocaine. His next court appearance is scheduled for January 24 before Judge Cynthia Raccuglia. 28-year-old Alexandria Alleman of Seneca faces allegations of attempting to deliver less than 15 grams of cocaine in June and is set to appear in Judge H. Chris Ryan’s courtroom on January 31. And, 36-year-old Christopher Cali of Mendota is indicted on charges including unlawful delivery of less than 15 grams of cocaine and between 15 and 100 grams of cocaine. He is slated to appear before Judge Ryan on January 26.
———————————————————————
A 70-year-old Peru man faces several charges from Peru Police after a traffic stop on New Year’s Day just after 2:00 a.m. Mark Gedraitas has two charges of driving under the influence, improper lane usage, and driving an uninsured vehicle. He was released with a court date.
———————————————————————
21-year-old Noah Garrett of Lombard was arrested by Ottawa Police on Wednesday at Columbus Street and East Norris Drive and charged with illegal possession of cannabis.
———————————————————————
A 19-year-old rural Ottawa woman has charges of illegal possession of alcohol by a minor, possession of smoking materials, speeding, and failure to dim headlights. Anna M. Perez was stopped by Ottawa Police in the 1500 block of Chestnut Street on Wednesday.
———————————————————————
During a recent status hearing, the Sycamore teenager accused of murdering his classmate, Kaleb McCall, by fatally stabbing him, returned to court. The minor, aged 16 and unnamed by authorities, participated in the virtual hearing via Zoom, alongside his mother, from the River Valley Juvenile Detention Center in Joliet, where he has been held since his arrest following the September 7 stabbing near downtown Sycamore. The defendant’s attorney discussed Snapchat photos obtained through a subpoena during the proceedings. The police assert that the 16-year-old male stabbed 17-year-old McCall to death after a reported disagreement involving two groups of local youth, with many witnesses present during the attack.
———————————————————————
The winners of Peru’s 2023 holiday lights and decorating contest were revealed on Wednesday. Securing the top spot with an impressive 203 votes was Cory Peruba, who will be awarded a $500 catering gift certificate to Tony’s Butt Shack. Karen White claimed the runner-up position with 198 votes and will be presented with a $300 gift card redeemable at a Peru business of her choosing. Brianna Rebholz clinched the third-place position with 58 votes and will receive a delightful gift basket courtesy of Debo Ace Hardware.
———————————————————————
The Conservation Cropping Seminar will take place on Jan. 31st from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. The seminar’s speakers will cover topics such as how to improve soil health, cover crops, adopt new technologies, improve root health, manage nutrients, and share the latest agronomic research. A Q&A session with a panel of Illinois farmers will also occur. To attend the seminar virtually visit ccswcd.com/conservation-cropping-seminars to register for $15. Participants must register by Jan. 24th.
———————————————————————
Oglesby nurse Tricia Kessel received the DAISY award for extraordinary care from OSF HealthCare. Kessel’s nomination praised her proactive approach to patient care and determination to provide the best care possible. To nominate an OSF staff member for the DAISY award visit the OSF website.
———————————————————————
The University of Illinois Extension is offering a Soupology class with Nutrition and Wellness Educator, Susan Glassman in Bureau, Putnam, and LaSalle counties. This course will teach participants how to prepare soups and stews. Recipes and food samples will be provided during the class. For more information visit the University of Illinois Extension website.
———————————————————————
Start the year off with a run at the Heritage Harbor Parkrun going on at 9 a.m. every Saturday along the scenic harbor walk in front of Red Dog at Harbor View Drive in Ottawa. This weekly event offers a free timed 5K run, providing a wonderful opportunity to embrace an active and healthy lifestyle. Prior registration for the parkrun is required, and you can sign up at parkrun.us/register. For additional details about the event, please visit visitheritageharbor.com/events.
———————————————————————
As the eagerly anticipated Eagle Watch Weekend approaches at Starved Rock State Park on January 27 to 28, residents need not delay their excitement to catch a glimpse of the magnificent birds. The majestic bald eagles can already be observed while fishing near the Starved Rock Lock and Dam along the Illinois River, in the vicinity of Plum Island, and from the vantage point of the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center.
———————————————————————
According to the National Fire Protection Association, approximately one-third of home fires related to Christmas trees occur in January. As time progresses, live trees tend to dry out, escalating the risk of becoming a fire hazard. To ensure safe disposal, many communities offer tree pickup programs, and individuals can inquire with their garbage collection company to check if they accept trees for disposal. Taking proactive steps in January helps mitigate the potential fire risks associated with lingering live Christmas trees.
———————————————————————
WEATHER:
Thursday
Mostly cloudy, with a high near 36. NNW winds around 5 mph becoming calm.
Thursday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low of around 27. South wind around 5 mph.
———————————————————————
OBITUARIES:
Patricia “Momma D” (Redman) Dillard, 61, of Utica, passed away on Saturday, December 30th at Allure of Mendota Nursing Home. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. today at the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa. Burial will follow at Oakwood Memorial Park, where full military rites will be accorded by the American Legion Post #33 Honor Guard. Visitation will be from noon until the time of service at the funeral home. A celebration of life will be held following the burial.
———————————————————————
Andrew “Jay” Ruger, 55, of Ottawa, passed away Saturday, December 30th, at OSF St. Elizabeth Medical Center after a 5-year battle with cancer. Visitation will be Friday, January 5th, from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm at Ottawa Funeral Home. A funeral ceremony will follow at 5:00 pm. Cremation rites will be accorded following the service.
———————————————————————
James Paul “Murph” Murphy, Sr., 79, of Ottawa, passed away on Wednesday, December 20th, at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center in Rockford. Visitation will be on Saturday, January 6th, from 12:00 pm until 3:00 pm at Ottawa Funeral Home. A funeral ceremony will follow at 3:00 pm at the funeral home. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home.
———————————————————————
Carol (Tunnacliffe) Underhill, 88, of Ottawa, passed away on Tuesday, January 2nd, at home, surrounded by family. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 9th, at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Ottawa. Burial will follow at Ottawa Avenue Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 9th, at the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa.
———————————————————————
Margaret Gaffney, 97, of Ottawa, passed away Sunday, December 24th, at The Pavilion of Ottawa. Visitation will be on Saturday, January 13th, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm at Ottawa Funeral Home. A funeral ceremony will take place at noon at the funeral home. Burial will be in Oakwood Memorial Park. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home.
———————————————————————
LOCAL SPORTS:
Boys basketball
Morris 48, Ottawa 46 (OT): At Ottawa, Morris, which trailed most of the game, took the lead in the fourth quarter before Ottawa tied the score at 40 to send the game into overtime. Morris regained the lead in the extra session for an Interstate 8 Conference victory Wednesday.
Our next Ottawa Pirates Boys game will be this Friday as they take on the LP Cavs at Sellett Gym with a 7 pm tip-off. Bryer Lehr and David Bergeson are on the call, with Tony B back at the WCMY studios.
———————————————————————
Serena 64, Reed-Custer 51: At Braidwood, the Huskers improved to 15-1 on the season with the win over the Comets on Wednesday.
———————————————————————
Flanagan-Cornell 52, Eureka 48: At Eureka, the Falcons slipped past the host Hornets in the Heart of Illinois Conference game Tuesday.
———————————————————————
This Friday, January 5th, Seneca is set to host a special Irish Basketball Reunion coinciding with the Tri-County Conference regular-season game against Henry-Senachwine at the West Campus (old school). The reunion is exclusively for former Fighting Irish players who participated in varsity basketball in the gym that served as the team’s home from 1950 to 1980.
———————————————————————
Girls basketball
Ottawa 47, Oak Forest 28: At Oak Forest, the Pirates (9-6) rolled to the road win over the Bengals.
———————————————————————
Amboy 28, Somonauk-Leland 18: At Somonauk, the Bobcats fell to the Clippers in a defensive battle.
———————————————————————
Rochelle 46, La Salle-Peru 39: The Cavaliers trailed by 20 points, closed within three but couldn’t complete the comeback in an Interstate 8 Conference game in Rochelle.
———————————————————————
Boys wrestling
Seneca 36, Plano 35; Princeton 41, Seneca 39: At Seneca, the Fighting Irish split a pair of close duals, topping the Reapers, but falling to the Tigers.
———————————————————————
Boys bowling
La Salle-Peru 3,030, Ottawa 2,866: At the Illinois Valley Super Bowl, the Pirates were defeated by the rival Cavaliers.
———————————————————————
Mendota 3,127, Streator 2,897: At Streator Elks Club, the Bulldogs fell short against the visiting Trojans.
———————————————————————
PRO & COLLEGE SPORTS:
The Bulls collapsed in the second half of their 116-100 loss to the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden yesterday. The Bulls had a four-point lead at halftime, but they were outscored 65-45 in the second half. DeMar DeRozan scored a team-high 28 points in the losing effort, while Coby White finished with 26. The Bulls are in 11th place in the Eastern Conference at 15-and-21. Chicago hosts Charlotte tomorrow night.
———————————————————————
The Blackhawks aim to avoid a fourth-straight loss when they visit the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden tonight. The Hawks are coming off a 3-0 loss to the Predators on Tuesday, and they’ve been outscored 11-1 in their last two games. Chicago is in last place in the Central Division with 24 points and an 11-24-and-2 record. In other news, the Hawks claimed defenseman Jaycob Megna off waivers from Seattle yesterday. The team also placed forward Anthony Beauvillier on injured reserve.
———————————————————————
A pair of Bears players will be heading to Orlando for the Pro Bowl next month. Defensive end Montez Sweat and cornerback Jaylon Johnson were both named to the Pro Bowl roster yesterday. Sweat will be making his first Pro Bowl appearance, and he’s racked up 12-and-a-half sacks in 16 games split between the Commanders and Bears this season. Johnson is also heading to his first Pro Bowl, and he has four interceptions and 36 tackles in 14 games.
———————————————————————
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish went down heartbreakingly during a 54-52 loss to North Carolina State at Joyce Center yesterday. The Irish led by two with under 15 seconds left in regulation, but NC State tied the game with a lay-up of an Irish turnover. Notre Dame missed a free throw on the ensuing possession before NC State hit a game-winning lay-up at the buzzer. The Irish dropped to 6-and-8 overall and 1-and-2 in the ACC. Notre Dame hosts number-13 Duke on Saturday.
———————————————————————
In other college basketball action yesterday, Bradley crushed Valparaiso 86-61, Chicago State was blown out by Oklahoma State 72-53, and Loyola snuck past Saint Louis 80-73.