The Flood Warning on the Fox River has been lifted, but the Flood Warning on the Illinois River from Ottawa west to Big Bureau Creek continues. As of Wednesday night, the river level at Ottawa was 3/10 of a foot above flood with a forecast for Illinois to fall below flood stage by this afternoon. At LaSalle Wednesday night, the reading was 2.9 feet above flood stage with a crest of 3 feet above flood stage forecast for Thursday evening. The Illinois at LaSalle should fall below flood stage by next Wednesday. The lower parking lot and boat ramps at Starved Rock State Park are closed, as is access to Allen Park in Ottawa. Alvin Harper, the complex superintendent at Starved Rock, stated that the lower lots were shut down on Monday night with notices posted early Tuesday. As of 3 p.m. Wednesday, neither Starved Rock nor Allen Park had been inundated.
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During the Marseilles City Council meeting on Wednesday night, considerable attention was directed towards the potential relocation of the museum within the building premises, sparking a debate on even minor spatial adjustments. Commissioner Jim Buckingham strongly opposed proposals suggesting the museum’s relocation from its current position on the northeast corner of the building, expressing accessibility concerns, particularly for veterans. Buckingham emphasized the significance of maintaining the museum’s accessibility and proximity to its current location, especially amidst plans for an expansion that could enlarge its dimensions. While not opposed to future relocation within the memorial complex, Buckingham vehemently rejected the idea of moving it elsewhere within the building or into a proposed community center, advocating for preserving its existing space. Additionally, the council addressed various other matters including a new contract with the Fraternal Order of Police, cost-saving measures in purchasing police vehicles, and the approval of special event permits and payments for community projects. They also welcomed a new City Attorney and acknowledged April as Junior Achievement Month, demonstrating a diverse range of municipal concerns addressed during the session.
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The Streator City Council is on the verge of voting on safety regulations for nonprofit organizations seeking donations at intersections. Councilman Matt McMullen highlighted safety concerns following a request from the Streator Monarch Mission and Garden Club to solicit funds downtown. City Attorney Sheryl Churney proposed various safety measures, including requiring groups to apply for permission 30 days before solicitation, providing proof of insurance and nonprofit registration, and imposing age restrictions and visibility requirements for solicitors. The council also discussed limiting solicitation to specific intersections. Despite not taking immediate action, the council plans to finalize the rules soon. Meanwhile, the demolition of a nuisance property on Hickory Street was completed, with potential future actions constrained by pending legislation. Additionally, the council addressed the need for school zone signage, agreed to advertise city-owned properties for sale, and approved various expenditures for infrastructure maintenance and federal project requirements.
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City leaders in Oglesby are inviting the public to a meeting next Thursday at 5:30 PM to deliberate on the forthcoming enhancements and modernizations at Lehigh Park’s east end. Considering the possibility of securing a grant to finance park improvements, the city is eager to gather insights from the community about desired additions and upgrades for Lehigh Park. Among its recent features, the park boasts an 18-hole disc golf course, complemented by a playground area, two shelters, and a spacious stage, enhancing its recreational appeal.
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The Community Food Basket of Ottawa has acquired a new 10,500-square-foot facility situated at 725 Fulton St., just west of downtown. This strategic move ensures continuity in their mission to provide for those in need, as highlighted in a recent news release. Marissa Vicich, the Executive Director, expressed gratitude for the community’s support and emphasized the importance of staying accessible to clients. The organization had to relocate from its previous 8,800-square-foot leased space at 519 W. Madison St. due to space constraints and lease issues. With a grant of $500,000 from La Salle County through the American Rescue Plan Act, the Food Basket secured its new home, meeting its space requirements and accommodating the increasing demand for its services. In October 2023 alone, it served a record-breaking 1,160 families. For more information on support options and involvement opportunities, visit ottawafoodbasket.org.
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Weather conditions in Will County are causing revisions to Interstate 80 work this week, with overnight lane closures now planned for the next three weeks. Commencing from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. between Rowell Avenue and Gougar Road, drivers can anticipate changing lane patterns and closed shoulders. Starting the week of April 8, overnight lane closures
will extend in both directions between Rowell Avenue and Gougar Road. Additionally, westbound I-80 between River and Ridge roads will undergo pavement shifts with corresponding overnight lane closures. Further alterations are slated for the week of April 15, with eastbound I-80 traffic shifted to westbound lanes between Ridge and River roads, necessitating lane closures in both directions. These closures are part of an ongoing effort by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to enhance safety and ease traffic congestion along I-80, with similar closures expected later this spring. The project encompasses redesigning and rebuilding 16 miles from Minooka’s Ridge Road to Route 30 in Joliet and New Lenox, including interchange and bridge improvements while ensuring two lanes in each direction remain open throughout the 12-mile work zone.
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The Grundy County Coroner confirmed the tragic passing of 44-year-old Cory Umgelder of Odell in an accident that occurred Wednesday morning at the Narvick Cement Plant located in Morris. Umgelder, one of two men on duty at the time, was alongside his colleague during the incident. According to Callahan’s statement released on Wednesday, it seems that a large fin connected to a shaft became jammed at the base of a sizable drum. While attempting to rectify the situation, the unit dislodged unexpectedly, propelling one of the workers into the base of the drum. Sadly, Umgelder was pronounced dead at 9:26 a.m. Following the incident, the Morris Fire Department extracted Umgelder from the confined space and administered emergency procedures before transporting him to Morris Hospital. The Grundy County Coroner’s Office, in conjunction with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is investigating this tragic workplace accident.
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At the annual employee recognition reception hosted at Senica’s Oak Ridge, the Illinois Valley Community College family will celebrate the achievements of several esteemed members. Among them, Nursing instructor Amber Robertson, hailing from Seneca, clinches the prestigious Stephen Charry Memorial Award for Teaching Excellence. A distinguished graduate of the nursing program, Robertson’s return to IVCC in 2018 marked a significant contribution to the institution’s academic fabric. Meanwhile, Jill Wohrley from Mendota earns recognition with the Connie Dzierzynski Skerston Memorial Award for Support Staff Distinguished Service. Serving as the college’s financial aid compliance specialist, Wohrley’s dedication shines brightly, previously excelling as a financial aid advisor. This year also sees Counselor Debbie Burch, an IVCC alumna, bestowed with the Part-Time Faculty of the Year Award. Burch’s multifaceted contributions include spearheading orientation programs for incoming high school students, managing a dynamic speakers’ bureau, and orchestrating various campus events. These commendations not only honor individual excellence but also embody the collective spirit of commitment and service within the IVCC community.
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There’s a new plan that would have the state of Illinois buy diapers for some kids in daycare. The new legislation would have the state buy 50 diapers per month for kids in all-day daycare, and 25 diapers per month for kids who go half days. Only kids who qualify for the state’s childcare assistance program would get the diapers. Democratic supporters say the program will cost just six million dollars per year, while Republicans at the Capitol say it will cost much, much more.
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Illinois agriculture officials are monitoring the state’s cattle population as more cases of a highly pathogenic bird flu pop up across the country. So far, no cases have been confirmed in Illinois. As a result, there are currently no restrictions on dairy cattle movement across the state. Dairy producers are urged to keep an eye on their herds.
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An Illinois House committee has passed a bill that would require all schools to have a cardiac emergency response plan in place. The state recorded 109 cardiac events among students under the age of 18 two years ago. The new proposal would require school districts to work with local paramedics to create a plan in case of a cardiac emergency. Cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death among student-athletes nationwide.
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The Springfield City Council has passed a resolution opposing the Postal Service’s plan to move its processing facility to St. Louis. The proposal includes a consolidation of several dozen processing and distribution centers in smaller Illinois communities. Mail that’s sent from central to southern Illinois addresses would first be sent to the St. Louis facility before being delivered. At Tuesday’s city council meeting, Mayor Misty Buscher said although the decision may already be made, the city wants the postal service to know about its support for its workers.
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There is more fallout after a recent parolee is charged with stabbing his pregnant ex-girlfriend and killing her eleven-year-old son on Chicago’s North Side last month. Governor Pritzker says the state will increase the domestic violence training that all Prisoner Review Board members get, whether they are new or existing members. Crosetti Brand has been charged with stabbing Laterria Smith and killing her son Jayden Perkins one day after he was let out of prison.
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Illinois State Police has identified the driver of the Kenworth truck involved in the fatal March 28th crash that claimed the life of 35-year-old DeKalb County Deputy Christina Musil as 44-year-old Nathan Sweeney of DeKalb. Sweeney has been issued citations for Failure to Reduce Speed to Avoid an Accident, Improper Lane Usage, and Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle. The tragic incident occurred on Illinois 23, south of Perry Road, near Waterman. A visitation and memorial service for Deputy Christina Musil are scheduled for Thursday at the Northern Illinois University Convocation Center.
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18-year-old Dejuan Colon of Mendota faces charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and theft in connection to a robbery incident in La Salle. Scheduled for a court appearance on April 12th, Colon stands accused of assaulting the victim with a firearm during the robbery that took place on December 11th in the 600 block of 23rd Street. The victim reported being held at gunpoint and struck in the face, resulting in injuries, although medical assistance was declined. La Salle Police received assistance from the Mendota Police Department and the La Salle County State’s Attorney’s Office during the investigation.
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WEATHER:
…FLOOD WARNING NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL THURSDAY EVENING…
* WHAT…Minor flooding is occurring and minor flooding is forecast.
* WHERE…Illinois River from Heritage Harbor east of Ottawa
downstream to Starved Rock Lock and Dam, including the Ottawa
gauge.
* WHEN…Until Thursday evening.
* IMPACTS…Backwater causing the Fox River to reach
bankfill near St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Ottawa.
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Thursday
A chance of snow before 9 am, then rain and snow showers likely between 9 am and 1 pm, and then a chance of rain showers after 1 pm. Cloudy, with a high near 43. Breezy, with a north-northwest wind of 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. The chance of precipitation is 70%. Little or no snow accumulation is expected.
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Thursday Night
A 20 percent chance of showers before 11 pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low of around 32. North northwest wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.
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OBITUARIES:
Edward J. Kuleck, 76, of Ottawa, passed away on Sunday, March 24th, at his home, surrounded by family. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. today at St. Columba Church. Burial will take place at St. Columba Cemetery at a later date.
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Bill A. Bernardoni, 73, of Seneca, formerly of Ottawa, went home to Jesus on Friday, March 29th, in Peoria. Visitation will be at Ottawa Funeral Home on Friday, April 5th from 4:00 – 7:00 pm. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 6th at 10:00a.m at Fox River Lutheran Church in Sheridan.
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Edwin E. Bartlett, 94, of Streator, formerly of Ottawa, passed away on Sunday, March 31st, at OSF St. Francis in Peoria. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 5th at the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa. Burial will follow at Oakwood Memorial Park, where Full Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post 33 Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. on Friday, at the funeral home.
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Ronald C. Kesner, 71, of Marseilles, passed away on April 1st, at his home. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, April 6th at Seals-Campbell Funeral Home in Marseilles. Funeral services will follow at noon at the funeral home.
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Linda (Hackler) Lowe, 76, of Deer Park, passed away on Tuesday, April 2nd, at her home. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. on Monday, at Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 8th, burial will follow at Section Cemetery.
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LOCAL SPORTS:
Baseball
St. Bede 16, Strayhorn (Miss.) 2: The Bruins made a grand return to USA Stadium in Millington, Tennessee, with a 14-run victory in five innings on their spring trip Wednesday The Bruins (9-2) and will return to action today in Cordova, Tennessee.
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Boyle County, Kent. 3, L-P 1: The Cavaliers dropped the first game of their spring trip in Tennessee. The Cavs (6-3) will play at Powell Tennessee today.
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On Wednesday, April 10th at 6 o’clock, Seneca High School will unveil its impressive multi-million-dollar gymnasium to the public. This state-of-the-art facility, boasting 28,000 square feet, was the result of meticulous planning and years of financial dedication, with an estimated cost of $14 million. Featuring three expansive basketball courts, permanent batting cages, enhanced parking facilities, upgraded concessions, ample storage, and numerous team rooms, this addition promises to elevate the school’s athletic programs. Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the cutting-edge amenities during guided tours of the new gymnasium. Seneca will host this year’s former Marquette Christmas Classic basketball tournament.
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PRO & COLLEGE SPORTS:
The Chicago White Sox game against the Atlanta Braves yesterday has been pushed back. Rain and snow forced the series finale between the two teams to be postponed. The game will be made up on June 27th. Chicago sends Mike Soroka to the mound against Kansas City tonight.
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The Cubs are celebrating a series sweep after outlasting the Rockies 9-8 at Wrigley Field. Seiya Suzuki led the offense after blasting a solo homer and going three-for-five with four RBI. Miguel Amaya drove in three runs, while Hector Neris earned the win in relief after giving up two runs over two-thirds of an inning. Adbert Alzolay earned his first save of the season as Chicago improved to 4-and-2. The Cubs host the Dodgers tomorrow.
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The Chicago Bears have spent time with their presumptive number-one pick. Ian Rapoport is reporting that former USC quarterback Caleb Williams made a top-30 visit to the Bears facility yesterday. The report adds that Williams met with and had dinner with Bears executives, coaches, and players. Williams is the heavy favorite to be drafted by Chicago with the first overall pick in the NFL Draft later this month.
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The Chicago Blackhawks are locking down one of their prospects. The team signed forward Nick Lardis to a three-year entry-level contract yesterday. The 18-year-old was Chicago’s third-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. He scored 29 goals and had 21 assists in 37 games in the OHL last season. His contract likely won’t start until the 2025-26 season. The Blackhawks host the Stars on Saturday.
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The Chicago Bulls are gearing up for their game against the New York Knicks at United Center tomorrow night. The Bulls are coming off a 113-101 loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Monday night. Chicago is in ninth place in the Eastern Conference with a 36-and-40 record, and the Bulls have clinched a spot in the play-in rounds. Tomorrow’s game tips off at 7:00 PM.