A Flood Warning is in effect on the Illinois River from Heritage Harbor to Starved Rock Lock and Dam and downstream to the confluence with Big Bureau Creek. Thursday evening, the reading at Ottawa was 1.8 feet above flood stage with the reading at LaSalle 7/10 of a foot above flood stage. The Illinois is expected to crest at Ottawa 1.8 feet above flood stage Saturday evening with a crest at 4.4 feet above flood stage expected at LaSalle Sunday morning. Meantime, a general Flood Watch is in effect throughout Northern Illinois into Monday as the slow snow melt will continue to impact streams and creeks causing localized flooding in some locations.
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LaSalle County is progressing in its pursuit of declaring a “Non-Sanctuary” status regarding migrants. Following approximately two weeks of deliberation and three committee meetings, the draft resolution is advancing toward consideration by the full County Board. The Committee on Appointments, Legislation, and Rules revisited the document, addressing concerns about the county’s liability. Advocates for the resolution expressed dissatisfaction with the initially perceived weak language and emphasized the need for specific procedures in dealing with migrants. Despite Democratic opposition, the latest committee meeting concluded with a revised draft incorporating terms like “non-sanctuary county” and “illegal immigrants.” The La Salle County State’s Attorney’s office will integrate these changes, and the resolution is slated for discussion at the upcoming board meeting.
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On Thursday, downtown Streator witnessed the restoration of smooth traffic flow as Traffic Control Corporation successfully installed new controllers and synchronized traffic lights. Mayor Tara Bedei revealed that the City Council, in May, allocated approximately $90,000 from motor fuel tax funds for this project, aiming to enhance traffic coordination at eleven intersections. The outdated controllers, installed between 1993 and 2003, were causing synchronization issues among traffic lights. In October, the new controllers and battery backups arrived, and since then, the programming from the old controllers has been transferred. The final step involves installing emergency pre-emption devices, scheduled for completion in the upcoming spring.
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Firefighters received a call about an oven fire at a residence on 23rd Avenue in Naplate around 4:30 on Thursday afternoon. While en route, a notification informed them that an officer had successfully extinguished the fire using an extinguisher. However, an emergency dispatch report indicated that, at some point during the incident, the occupant of the house was unwilling to evacuate.
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Peru officials have declared a boil order for residents residing in the 600 and 700 blocks of Ninth Street and Prospect Avenue. The recent water main break near Ninth Street and Prospect Avenue/Prospect Court has been successfully repaired. Further information regarding the lifting of the boil order will be provided in an upcoming update. Residents encountering rusty water are advised to run their taps until the water runs clear.
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In 2023, La Salle County witnessed a real estate shift with 962 homes sold, reflecting a decrease of over 200 homes compared to 2022. However, the median sales price experienced a notable uptick, reaching $160,000 and showcasing a 9 percent increase from the previous year. Bureau County, on the other hand, saw a slight decline in home sales with 282 transactions, approximately 50 fewer than the preceding year. Despite the dip, the median sales price in Bureau County rose to $128,000, marking a 6 percent increase from the prior year. In Putnam County, 55 homes were sold in 2023, indicating a decrease of more than 20 from 2022. Interestingly, the median sales price for Putnam County homes in the past year was $166,000, reflecting an 11 percent decrease from the preceding year.
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The Illinois State Board of Education has officially backed a budget proposal that seeks a $653 million augmentation in funding for PreK-12 public schools. However, with the state grappling with a projected $891 million budget deficit, lawmakers might find it challenging to accommodate such a request in the upcoming fiscal year. Currently constituting one-fifth of the state’s overall General Revenue Fund budget, PreK-12 education spending would rise to just over $11 billion if the suggested increase is approved. The proposed budget earmarks a $350 million boost in Evidence-Based Funding, mandated by a 2018 law aiming to incrementally raise the state’s contribution to public education costs, focusing on inadequately funded districts. Despite the progress since the law’s initiation, the report accompanying the budget indicates a need for an additional $2.5 billion in Evidence-Based Funding to achieve the goal of having all districts funded at or above 90% of their adequacy level.
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La Salle-Peru High School has introduced a new proposal that allows eligible students to qualify for final exam waivers, as approved by the board in a recent meeting. Superintendent Steven Wrobleski emphasized that the eligibility criteria, including a maximum of three absences and an 80% grade or higher (equivalent to an A or B), aim to maintain academic standards while serving as a motivational tool for students. Additionally, seniors can be exempt from finals in subjects corresponding to SAT areas where they meet or exceed the standard, with the potential for full exam exemptions if they achieve this in two SAT areas. Board Member Rose Marie Lynch highlighted the proposal’s intent to promote good grades and attendance, reinstating a previous waiver that had been discontinued a few years ago. Wrobleski and Lynch noted a decline in attendance after the initial revocation of the exam waiver, and they anticipate implementing the new policy this semester, with communication to families scheduled by the end of the week. The official start date is planned for the upcoming Monday, with attendance tracking beginning without penalties for earlier absences in the semester.
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The Illinois Department of Revenue will begin accepting 2023 state tax returns on Monday. That is the same date that the Internal Revenue Service begins accepting federal individual income tax returns. Taxpayers are encouraged to file electronically as early as possible and choose direct deposit to ensure the fastest processing and issuance of any refunds.
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Ameren is warning its customers in Illinois to be aware of an increase in online scams. The scammers are developing fraudulent website listings that mimic the company’s website and include fake contact phone numbers and email addresses. An individual who uses an Internet search engine to contact an Ameren representative, pay their bill, or change service may come across several “legitimate-looking” but fake Ameren website listings. Once the customer calls the fake phone number or clicks on a fake link, they are tricked into thinking they are engaging with an Ameren representative or visiting the company’s official website.
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The Ottawa attempted murder case involving thirty-year-old Anthony Brito Jr. is facing delays in reaching trial. During a recent court appearance, Brito, accompanied only by his lawyer due to the absence of other attendees, was informed of the postponement. The next status hearing for Brito is scheduled for February 29th. He faces charges of attempted murder, aggravated discharge of a firearm, witness harassment, and felonious possession of a firearm, leading to his current detention in the La Salle County Jail. Prosecutors allege that on the evening of September 12th, Brito, involved in a separate cocaine-related court case, targeted a witness’s vehicle and, during a confrontation, fired shots that fortunately did not injure anyone but caused damage to a windshield. Following a standoff with law enforcement, Brito was apprehended the next day. His criminal history in La Salle County includes convictions for burglary, cocaine dealing, and aggravated fleeing.
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Peru Township residents facing non-emergency medical appointments can now have their travel expenses covered, courtesy of the township. The initiative, available to individuals with disabilities or those aged 55 and above residing within Peru Township’s limits, will subsidize transportation costs for medical visits within NCAT’s service area. Administered by NCAT, a Medicaid-approved transit provider, the program will remain in effect until further notice. To schedule rides, individuals should contact NCAT at 833-433-6228, ensuring reservations are made at least two business days in advance. For additional information on NCAT services, visit ridencat.com and inquiries regarding eligibility can be directed to Township Supervisor Doug Biederstedt at 815-223-0746
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Oakley and Zeus, accompanied by their handlers from Interquest Detection Canines of Chicagoland, made their inaugural surprise visit to L-P High School on Thursday, marking the commencement of a new school safety initiative. As part of this program, the amiable retrievers will make periodic appearances throughout the semester, diligently fulfilling their role in detecting illicit substances such as drugs, gunpowder-based items, alcoholic beverages, and commonly misused prescription and over-the-counter medications. Their search areas encompass various spaces within the school, including common areas, lockers, and parking lots. The administration of L-P High School emphasized its commitment to fostering a safe and healthy environment, stating that the implementation of this safety program is a crucial step in achieving this objective.
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The Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor is seeking bicycle service technicians to maintain rental bikes on the western end of the corridor. Qualified individuals will be responsible for monthly checks at I&M Canal bike share stations from April to November. Tasks include inspecting bikes for functionality, addressing simple and medium maintenance issues, and reporting serious problems. Technicians need a basic understanding of bicycles and will receive training on specific models, along with a detailed repair checklist. Applicants should use their tools, pump, rack, and transportation. The position offers $40 per station visit, plus compensation for mileage and medium repairs. Open to residents in Morris and La Salle areas, preference is given to those able to service multiple stations. Interested individuals can contact 815-220-1848, ext. 1848.
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The Pasieka family has generously contributed $11,000 to establish an endowed scholarship fund as a tribute to their late parents, Joseph and Gayle Pasieka. Joseph and Gayle’s love story began at Tonica Milk Products, leading to their marriage in 1951 upon Joseph’s return from the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Together, they spent four decades working on their farm and raising three children, embracing farming as a way of life. The Joe and Gayle Pasieka endowed scholarship will award a $1,000 scholarship this fall to a local student pursuing studies in agriculture, with a subsequent annual grant of $500. This scholarship serves as a fitting homage to the Pasieka family’s agricultural legacy. Tracy Beattie, the Executive Director of the Foundation, expressed gratitude for the family’s commitment to the future of agriculture in the Illinois Valley. The scholarship application, along with numerous others, is available online at ivcc.edu/scholarships for students enrolling at Illinois Valley Community College in Fall 2024. IVCC continues to provide opportunities for individuals and businesses to establish both annual and endowed scholarships, making a significant impact on the education of numerous students each year.
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A 15-year-old student from Joliet West High School faced accusations of posting a photo featuring two guns on a Snapchat group chat. Subsequently, police discovered two loaded guns in the student’s bedroom, prompting concerns of a potential threat and resulting in heightened police presence at the high school. Joliet police Sgt. Dwayne English stated that the Snapchat incident was investigated, revealing a photo of two handguns in a group chat primarily used by freshman students. Upon identifying the 15-year-old as the suspect, detectives apprehended him at his residence in the 400 block of South Des Plaines Street. A search of his bedroom led to the recovery of two loaded handguns with defaced serial numbers, matching those in the Snapchat post. The student was arrested on charges including aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, defacing identification marks on a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and disorderly conduct. Subsequently, he was taken to the River Valley Juvenile Detention Center in Joliet.
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A 37-year-old Princeton man, Jesse A. Shanyfelt, accused of causing significant harm to emergency room personnel, including breaking a nurse’s orbital bone, will undergo a mental fitness evaluation to determine his ability to stand trial. The court order, issued on January 19, mandates an examination by Dr. Terry Killian, with the results to be presented at a hearing on March 20 at the Bureau County Courthouse. Shanyfelt faces charges including aggravated battery, with accusations of physically assaulting multiple healthcare workers and a peace officer. Additional charges were filed after he allegedly damaged a telephone box in custody at the Bureau County Jail on January 19, resulting in a class 4 felony charge of criminal property damage. The mental fitness evaluation will impact both cases, according to Bureau County State Attorney Thomas Briddick.
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LaSalle County Deputies responded to two no-injury single-vehicle accidents Thursday. Shortly after 3:00, 32-year-old Cherie Jankowski of Seneca lost control of her vehicle in South Ottawa Township at Illinois 23 and North 2525th Road and ended up in a ditch. Just after 6:00 p.m., 22-year-old Kyle Carico of Montgomery’s vehicle slid through a T-intersection at East 29th Road and U.S. 52 in Mission Township, struck a utility pole and ended up in a field.
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37-year-old Daniel J. Kelly of Streator was arrested by Ottawa Police at the Ottawa Wal-Mart on Wednesday on charges of felony retail theft, obstructing a police officer, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a controlled substance. Kelly was released with a court date.
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A Streator man is charged by Ottawa Police Thursday with driving on a suspended license and no mandatory insurance. 39-year-old Travis L. Ford was stopped at Columbus and Madison Streets. He is on release with a court date.
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42-year-old Kashar T. Flowers of Ottawa was stopped by Ottawa Police at West McKinley Road and James Court Thursday and charged with driving on a suspended license and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. Flowers was given a court date.
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A Peru man faces charges of operating an uninsured motor vehicle and driving with a suspended license. 45-year-old Juan O. Cartagena was stopped by Peru Police Wednesday evening at 4th and Farm Streets.
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WEATHER:
…The Flood Warning continues through Monday for the following rivers in
Illinois…Illinois River at Ottawa affecting La Salle County.
Illinois River at La Salle affects La Salle, Bureau, and Putnam Counties. For the Illinois River (Upper)…including Ottawa, La Salle…Minor
flooding is forecast. River rises are occurring due to a combination of snow melt and rain over frozen ground, and the break of river ice.
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Friday
Patchy drizzle with a chance of rain before 8 am, then patchy drizzle between 8 am and 10 am, then patchy drizzle with a chance of rain after 10 am. Areas of fog. Otherwise, cloudy, with a high near 38. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the morning. The chance of precipitation is 30%.
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Friday Night
Areas of fog. Otherwise, cloudy, with a low of around 35. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
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OBITUARIES:
Gary Russell Rinker, 79, of The Villages, FL, born in Ottawa passed away on Thursday, January 18th, at his home. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. TODAY, at the Mueller Funeral Home Ottawa. Burial will follow at St. Columba Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on TODAY, at the Knights of Columbus.
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William F. (Bill) Kasten, 90, of Kansas City, Missouri born in Ottawa. Passed away on Friday, December 22nd, at St. Anthony’s Senior Living in Kansas City, Missouri. Visitation will take place on Saturday, January 27th at St. Patrick’s Church in Seneca from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service, with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois at a later date. Ottawa Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
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Brendin H. Miskell, 39, of Ottawa, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, January 21st, A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 3rd, from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm at the American Legion in Ottawa. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home.
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Candy Dubach, 55, of Ottawa, passed away Friday, January 19th.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 31st, from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm at Ottawa Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 6:00 pm at the funeral home.
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Leslie Roberta Streadwick, 66, of Ottawa, passed away Monday, January 22nd, at The Pavilion of Ottawa. Private burial will be in Oakwood Memorial Park. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home and Crematory.
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LOCAL SPORTS:
Boys basketball
In a repeat of last season’s match-up, Seneca will meet Marquette Academy at 8 p.m. on Saturday for the championship for the 97th Tri-County Conference Tournament. The top-seeded Fighting Irish top No. 4 Midland 69-50 in Thursday’s first semifinal at Putnam County’s R.M. Germano Gymnasium. The No. 2-seeded Crusaders put together a 69-52 triumph over No. 3 Woodland in the second contest of the evening.
Marquette won last year’s title game 59-54 over Seneca.
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Sandwich 49, Richmond-Burton 38: At Sandwich, the Indians improved to 11-9 overall and 5-2 in Kishwaukee River Conference action with the win over the Rockets.
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Girls basketball
Marquette Academy 40, Midland 33: At rural Varna, the Crusaders topped the Timberwolves in the Tri-County Conference game Thursday.
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St. Bede 53, Henry-Senachwine/Lowpoint-Washburn 26: Ali Bosnich scored 17 points as the Bruins earned a Tri-County Conference victory in Peru.
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Peotone 40, Streator 23: At Pops Dale Gymnasium in Streator, the Bulldogs dropped the Illinois Central Eight Conference contest to the Blue Devils.
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Serena 48, Hiawatha 13: At Kirkland, the Huskers improved to 19-2 overall and 3-0 in Little Ten Conference play with the win over the Hawks
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Somonauk-Leland 36, Earlville 22: At Earlville, the Bobcats earned the Little Ten Conference victory over the Red Raiders.
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Hall 52, Newman 32: Red Devils get a Three Rivers Conference East Division victory in Spring Valley.
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Princeton 46, Mendota 19: the Tigresses won a Three Rivers Conference East Division game in Mendota.
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Wrestling
Seneca 42, Wheaton Academy 21; Seneca 48, Ottawa 25: At Kingman Gymnasium, the Fighting Irish improved their dual mark to 19-7 with wins over the Warriors and Pirates.
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Sandwich 40, Plano 33: At Sandwich, the Indians picked up the victory over the rival Reapers.
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BOYS SWIMMING
La Salle-Peru co-op 79, Byron co-op 65: the Cavaliers get a victory in Byron.
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PRO & COLLEGE SPORTS:
The Bulls lost to the Los Angeles Lakers 141-132. Chicago remains in ninth place in the Eastern Conference at 21-and-25. The Bulls visit Portland on Sunday.
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The Blackhawks are on a three-game losing streak following a 3-0 loss to the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place. Chicago is in Calgary tomorrow night.
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The Chicago White Sox have hired a new play-by-play announcer for their television broadcasts. John Schriffen was given the job yesterday. The 39-year-old announced several sports for ESPN over the past four years. He replaces Jason Benetti, who was poached by the Tigers earlier in the offseason.
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The number-11 Illinois Fighting Illini will try to get back on track when they host Indiana at State Farm Center tomorrow afternoon. Tomorrow’s contest gets underway at 2:00 PM.
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A preliminary hearing in the criminal rape case against University of Illinois basketball player Terrence Shannon Junior is being delayed. The Kansas hearing was pushed back to May 10th from February 23rd due to a scheduling conflict. The delay clears the way for Shannon to play the rest of the season. The Chicago native was suspended indefinitely from all team activities last month after being arrested on a rape charge out of Kansas. A federal judge ruled last Friday that the university had violated his civil rights and granted a preliminary injunction that allowed him to return to the court.
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The Northwestern Wildcats look to get a winning streak going when they host Ohio State at Welsh-Ryan Arena tomorrow. Tomorrow night’s game tips off at 7:30 PM.
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The Notre Dame Fighting Irish aim to avoid their fourth loss in a row when they host Boston College at Joyce Center tomorrow. Tomorrow’s game starts at 11:00 AM Central Time.