This week is Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Illinois. And today a statewide tornado drill is scheduled for 11 a.m. It comes almost a week after a rare outbreak of February tornadoes that knocked out power to homes and businesses and left a trail of damage. The National Weather Service confirmed that 11 tornadoes touched down in the state.
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Friendship Days returns to Ottawa for a full nine-day celebration, featuring a diverse array of events and entertainment. Commissioner Wayne Eichelkraut spearheaded the ratification of a contract with Clik Entertainment for the Taylor Swift Dance Party, the highlight of the festival held at Riverfront Park. This event, running from July 27 to August 4, includes beloved traditions like the Farmers Market, “Ottawa Uncorked” Wine Fest, and Music in the Park. Exciting additions such as Touch a Truck, Rock the Block, and Jordan Block Jams will spice up the schedule, alongside perennial favorites like the La Salle County Cruisers Car Show. Additionally, Eichelkraut announced a free kids’ movie screening sponsored by the Special Events Committee. The council also greenlit various agreements, including a taser lease program, fire department grant writing assistance, and engineering services for water main replacements, showcasing a commitment to enhancing community safety and infrastructure.
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The trial set for this week concerning a Mendota funeral home director, Brett Merritt, has been postponed. Despite his appearance in court on Thursday, no plea deal was reached, leading the defense to request a continuance. Consequently, the jury trial, initially scheduled for Monday, has been rescheduled to May 20th. Merritt, aged 54, maintains his plea of not guilty to charges including two counts of possession of child pornography and two counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse. His arrest by Mendota police last July stemmed from search warrants executed at his residence and the Merritt Funeral Home, where he remains listed as a funeral director. Investigators disclosed that his arrest followed a comprehensive six-month inquiry into multiple alleged offenses.
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The La Salle County Health Department and OSF HealthCare have initiated a collaborative endeavor known as Healthier La Salle County. Over twenty-five organizations and agencies have joined forces to raise awareness about available resources in Starved Rock Country aimed at promoting physical, mental, and social well-being. These entities encompass a wide spectrum, including the Alzheimer’s Association, local YMCAs, and the University of Illinois Extension. Additionally, nearly a dozen high school students participated in a logo design competition for Healthier La Salle County, with Ottawa High School Senior Nate Kaminski emerging as the winner. Further details can be accessed at https://www.lasallecountyil.gov/740/Healthier-LaSalle-County.
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Following a collision with a semi-tractor-trailer in Ottawa on Tuesday morning, a bicyclist was transported to OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria for treatment. Ottawa police and fire responded to the incident at approximately 12:24 a.m. in the 2700 block of Columbus Street, initially taking the injured cyclist to OSF St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Ottawa before transferring her to Peoria. Ottawa Police Det. Sgt. Scott Harden stated that the driver of the semi-tractor trailer has been fully cooperative with the Ottawa Police Department, which continues to investigate the matter with the assistance of Accident Reconstructionists. Further details may be disclosed at a later stage.
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Although state and federal grant funds entail certain obligations, they offer significant assistance in the advancement of a city’s development. During the recent city council meeting, Oglesby City Commissioner Richard Baldridge expressed a desire to leverage the resources of the North Central Illinois Council of Governments to secure grants, inspired by the success of neighboring towns in acquiring substantial funding. Proposed projects benefiting from potential grants encompass enhancements to city parks and the downtown area, alongside the pursuit of a housing rehabilitation grant. Recognizing that Oglesby may need to provide matching funds for most grants, Commissioner Tony Stefanelli emphasizes the value of external funding sources, highlighting their ability to initiate tangible progress in city initiatives.
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A collaborative effort in Streator is dedicated to promoting an active lifestyle. Streator High School, in conjunction with the Streator YMCA, has extended its partnership by offering student and adult staff memberships for the current school year, funded through a grant from the American Rescue Plan. This initiative has resulted in 304 students and 69 staff members gaining complimentary access to YMCA facilities. According to a statement from Streator High School, the collective value of these memberships surpasses $79,000, emphasizing the significant investment in fostering wellness within the community.
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Mobile home tax bills for La Salle County were sent out on February 27th. The deadline for payment of the Mobile Home Local Services Tax is Wednesday, May 1st. Payments can be made in person at the treasurer’s office at 707 E. Etna Road in Ottawa. It is crucial to pay the Mobile Home Local Services Tax promptly to avoid penalties of $25 per month, up to $100, starting May 2nd. For inquiries about the tax, mobile homeowners can contact the La Salle County Treasurer’s Office at 815-434-8219, option 4.
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Illinois Valley Community College has released its 13th annual Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR), summarizing the institution’s financial status for the fiscal year ending June 2023. Designed for accessibility to individuals without financial expertise, the PAFR consistently garners accolades from the Government Finance Officers Association for its clarity and transparency. President Tracy Morris expressed pride in the Business Office team for their dedication to producing this concise and comprehensible report, emphasizing the importance of financial integrity and transparency in maintaining stakeholder trust. Morris encourages individuals to consult the report for important financial insights, readily available at https://www.ivcc.edu/businessservices/financial-pafr/FY2023_PAFR.pdf
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Illinois lawmakers are considering a bill to eliminate the road test for seniors when they renew their licenses. Republican State Representative Jeff Keicher introduced the bill that would do away with the mandate in Illinois, which is currently the only state that requires behind-the-wheel tests for renewing seniors’ licenses. He says these tests don’t solve problems on the road. But officials with the National Safety Council say their research shows senior drivers account for more accidents involving more than one vehicle.
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CVS and Walgreens are ready to take the next steps to provide distribution of the abortion pill to states, including Illinois. Both companies say they’ve received certification and will begin filling prescriptions where it’s legally allowed in the coming weeks. Governor J.B. Pritzker says he doesn’t know when the Supreme Court will issue a decision on the availability of the abortion pill. He notes the state will ensure women will have the rights that are constitutionally protected for them.
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This is Read Across America Week. Children’s advocacy groups in Illinois say although literacy rates among children have been improving in the last three years, more needs to be done. Data from the state Board of Education shows almost 35 percent of students did not meet or only partially met literacy standards last year. Officials with the nonprofit Stand for Children Illinois say parents play a much greater role in helping their kids read than they might know.
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Two state political leaders– a state lawmaker and a former governor — have announced plans to place a constitutional amendment on ethics reform on the November ballot. The initiative is the work of Republican State Representative Ryan Spain and former Democratic Governor Pat Quinn. The effort comes after the longtime Chief of Staff of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan — Tim Mapes — was sentenced to two-and-a-half years behind bars for lying under oath to protect his old boss. The proposed amendment would enable voters to put in place ethics rules for future elections. Nationwide, 22 states have set up processes to enable voters to pass ethics reforms through referendum.
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Residents of Perry County just a little north of Carbondale, may have felt some shaking beneath them yesterday morning. Officials with the U.S. Geological Survey say an earthquake measuring three-point-zero hit Perry County. The quake was located several miles east of Pinckneyville. There were no reports of injuries or damage. The village of Standard was hit by a 3.6 magnitude quake according to the U.S. Geological Survey last November.
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Bruce Sirtoff, 37, from Bloomington, faced a judge’s ruling on Tuesday regarding his explicit threat of mass violence in Ottawa, despite lacking actual weapons. The judge ordered his detention in La Salle County Jail while awaiting trial on serious charges, including making a terrorist threat, which carries severe penalties. Assistant State’s Attorney Laura Hall emphasized the gravity of such threats in society, particularly in the wake of real incidents like school shootings. Sirtoff’s specific threats, including plans to conduct a mass shooting and bomb a school, led to his arrest. Prosecutors argued for his detention due to the specificity and seriousness of his threats, coupled with his criminal history and non-compliance with legal requirements. Despite the defense’s plea for release citing Sirtoff’s lack of immediate means to carry out the threats and mental health concerns, the judge ruled that the risk to public safety warranted his continued detention. Sirtoff, displaying remorse, was granted a public defender and awaits further proceedings, with the grand jury set to review his case. Despite no weapons found during a police raid on his residence, the judge emphasized the real and present threat posed by Sirtoff’s actions.
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WEATHER:
Wednesday
Cloudy through mid-morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 54. Northeast wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
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Wednesday Night
Partly cloudy, with a low of around 35. East-northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.
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OBITUARIES:
Joni “Joan” Marie Eich, 81, of Ottawa, passed away Friday, March 1st at her home. A graveside service will take place on Thursday, March 7th, at 11:00 am, at the chapel at Oakwood Memorial Park. Burial will be in Oakwood Memorial Park. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home.
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James “Kaker” DeBernardi Jr., 96, of Naplate, passed away Saturday, March 2nd, at La Salle County Nursing Home with his family by his side. Visitation will be on Saturday, March 9th, from 10:00 am until 10:30 am at Ottawa Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 am at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Burial will be in Oakwood Memorial Park.
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Fred E. Carlson, 85, of Ottawa, passed away Sunday, March 3rd, at his home. Visitation will be on Saturday, March 9th, from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm at Ottawa Funeral Home. A funeral ceremony will follow at 1:00 pm, Burial will be in Oakwood Memorial Park.
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LOCAL SPORTS:
The Ottawa Dolphins competed in the 2024 Northwest Junior District / District Championships March 1-3, 2024 at the Illinois Valley YMCA in Peru. The Dolphins finished in 4th place overall. There were a total of 451 swimmers from 8 teams in the Northwest District that competed. The Dolphins sent 66 swimmers to the meet in individual and relay events.
Personal Best Times: Stella Andree, Elizabeth Hansen, Dane Hawkins, Brennen Heaver, Breckyn Jobst, and Ben Kuiper
Age Group Team Awards
· The 8 & under boys finished 1st in their age group
· The 10 & under girls finished 3rd in their age group
Junior District Champions – 7 events
· Caden Brown – Boys 8 under 25 Breast
· Elliot Citta – Girls 6 under 25 Back
· Dane Hawkins – Boys 12 under 50 Free
· Dax Hawkins – Boys 10&under 200 Free
· Ben Kuiper – Boys 12 under 50 Fly
· Olivia Pierce – Girls 10 under 200 Free
· Corbyn Rutherford – Boys 10 under 50 Breast
District Champion – 1 event
· Atley Strow – Boys 10&under 50 Back
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PRO & COLLEGE SPORTS:
The Blackhawks snapped a seven-game losing streak with a 5-2 win against the Coyotes in Arizona. The Hawks visit the Capitals on Saturday.
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The Bulls will try to get on a winning streak when they visit the Utah Jazz at Delta Center tonight. Tonight’s game tips off at 8:00 PM.
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The Bears will have their lockdown cornerback for at least one more season. The team placed its franchise tag on Jaylon Johnson yesterday. Johnson will get 19-point-eight million dollars for the 2024 season, and the Bears now have until mid-July to complete a long-term extension with the corner. Johnson had four interceptions and one forced fumble with the Bears last year.
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The Cubs managed just four hits during a 4-0 Spring Training loss to the Kansas City Royals at Surprise Stadium. The Cubs send Justin Steele to the mound when they host the Los Angeles Angels today.
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The White Sox return to action when they host the Los Angeles Dodgers in a Spring Training affair at Camelback Ranch. The Southsiders are coming off a 5-2 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Monday. Michael Kopech is scheduled to start today’s game, which begins at 2:05 PM.
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The number-12 Illinois Fighting Illini faded down the stretch of their 77-71 loss against number-three Purdue at State Farm Center. They visit Iowa on Sunday.
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The Notre Dame Fighting Irish were thoroughly dominated during an 84-51 loss against number-seven UNC at Dean Smith Center. They visit Virginia Tech on Saturday.
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The Northwestern Wildcats look to get back in the win column when they visit Michigan State at Breslin Center tonight. Tonight’s game tips off at 6:00 PM.
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In other college basketball action yesterday, Northern Illinois lost to Central Michigan 69-63.