It was a busy day yesterday in the area for emergency crews, in Utica, firefighters rushed to the scene of a motorcycle crash around 3:45 PM on Monday, occurring on Route 71 within the state park’s curve. Initial reports indicated the rider had sustained a severe leg injury, prompting the dispatch of a Life Flight helicopter to transport them to a hospital. Minutes earlier, first responders in Grand Ridge were called to assist a bicyclist who had been knocked unconscious after colliding with a dog along North 2450th Road northwest of Grand Ridge. These incidents were preceded by a two-vehicle collision in Peru at the intersection of Route 251 and 38th Street, involving a North Central Area Transit bus and a service vehicle from Grasser’s Plumbing & Heating, necessitating the dispatch of two ambulances.
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The La Salle high-rise complex on Second Street has become the scene of two tragic discoveries, as two individuals have been found deceased within their respective apartments. Following wellness checks conducted by the police twice on Monday afternoon, grim news emerged both times. Firstly, a 60-year-old man was found lifeless inside his apartment just after 1:30, followed by the discovery of a 46-year-old woman’s body in her apartment a little over thirty minutes later. The La Salle County Coroner’s Office is currently conducting autopsies as part of their investigation into each incident, with no suspicion of foul play in either case. The La Salle Police Department Investigations Unit has been actively involved in both investigations, working to uncover any pertinent details surrounding these unfortunate events.
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Discover the thrill of hunting for morel mushrooms at Ottawa’s Midwest Morel Fest, a cherished annual event returning to Ottawa, IL. On Saturday, May 4th, starting at 7:30 am, join us at the Jordan Block (100 Main Street) for a day filled with all things mushrooms. Explore the Botanical Market and Morel Market brimming with mushroom delights, and don’t miss Morel University, where you can learn to identify these elusive fungi. Secure your spot for the educational hunt, with limited availability. Get your tickets early: presale prices until April 1st are $30 for ages 13 and above, $15 for ages 12 and under, April 2nd – 27th tickets are $35 for ages 13 and above, $20 for ages 12 and under, and after April 27th and at the door prices rise to $50 for ages 13 and above, $35 for ages 12 and under. Register now at https://visitottawail.com/morel-registration/.
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Utica’s Market on Mill, the anticipated outdoor retail plaza, offers a glimpse of the arrival of its first portable retail stall displayed outside the Village Hall. During a recent meeting of the Utica Village Board, trustees expressed admiration for the stall’s size and design, showcasing excitement for the project. Situated on the northwest corner of Mill and Church streets, previously hampered by challenges including its location in the Clark’s Run flood plain, the plaza’s innovative solution involves portable stalls leased from Everlast Portable Buildings. With a planned May groundbreaking, the village aims to revitalize the area, supported by a Rebuild Illinois Downtowns and Main Streets grant awarded in August 2022.
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Northern Illinois University Police issued a cautionary alert to students and faculty concerning an unconfirmed bomb and active shooter threat on Monday morning, disseminating the information through email. Faculty and staff of NIU’s College of Business received an anonymous email on Monday indicating there would be an act of violence committed Monday, where the emailer requested a large police response in hopes of gaining international news. NIU is also aware that another university outside of Illinois received the same message Monday. Within the past year, multiple other universities across the nation have received similar emails from anonymous sources hoping to draw a SWAT team response, cause disruption, and strike fear. Classes remain as scheduled on Monday. A previous Northern Illinois University mass shooting took place on February 14th, 2008, when a 27 years old, 2006 NIU graduate, opened fire with a shotgun and three pistols in a crowd of students on campus, killing five students and injuring 17 more people, before fatally shooting himself.
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The City of Oglesby has launched its annual banner program, allowing individuals to purchase a two-sided banner to commemorate their chosen service member. These banners will adorn Walnut Street from Memorial Day to Veteran’s Day, serving as a tribute to those who have served. Priced at $100 each, only 50 banners will be available for purchase. For further information, interested parties are encouraged to reach out to the Oglesby City Clerk’s Office.
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Experience the awe of the Total Solar Eclipse on April 8 with free ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses provided by the La Salle Public Library, available while supplies last. Thanks to a grant from STAR Net, funded by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, these specialized glasses ensure safe viewing, unlike regular sunglasses. Each pair includes a DIY carrying case and instructions, along with a bookmark directing to the library’s program portal for additional eclipse resources. Visit or call the library at 815-223-2341 for more information, located at 305 Marquette St., La Salle, with ADA-compliant facilities.
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Dick Janko, a transformative figure in the Illinois Valley, passed away at Manor Court in Peru at the age of 96. From humble beginnings during the Great Depression, he carved out a remarkable legacy, building homes and businesses, creating jobs, and reshaping the local landscape. Janko’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to community welfare were unparalleled; he used his success to inspire others and support the less fortunate. His tireless efforts in business, mentorship, and civic engagement left an indelible mark on the region, and his legacy of generosity and enthusiasm will be dearly missed by many.
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Democratic State Representative Edgar Gonzalez of Chicago faced significant criticism for his proposed bill, as reported by 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting. House Bill 1634, if passed, would impose severe repercussions on farmers and truckers in the state by denying vehicle registration renewal for diesel engines older than 2010. Bunting further emphasized that this measure would impact not only farmers and truckers but also pose challenges for fire departments in his district, many of which rely on vehicles dating back to the 90s. Expressing concern over the substantial financial strain it would impose on individuals, businesses, and taxpayers, Bunting highlighted the wide-ranging implications of the legislation.
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Illinois’ governor is defending the push to end the state grocery tax, even though that may hurt local governments. Governor JB Pritzker told reporters yesterday that eliminating the one percent grocery tax will save people hundreds of dollars a year. He says working people in the state need some help. But getting rid of the tax would also cost local governments about 350 million dollars. The state collects the tax, but almost all of the money goes to local governments across the state.
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On Wednesday, March 6th at 5 p.m., the Ottawa Township High School Class of 1971 will gather for a pizza party at Sam’s Pizza located at 240 Washington St., Marseilles. The event will be graciously hosted by classmate Joe Evola and his wife Caterina. All classmates, spouses, and friends are welcome to join the festivities.
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WEATHER:
There is a potential for strong to severe thunderstorms late Tuesday afternoon and evening, although there is uncertainty regarding the placement of the main severe corridor. At this time, the main threat appears to be near the I-80 corridor. The strongest storms could produce large hail, damaging winds, and a tornado or two.
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Tuesday
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5 pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 78. South southwest wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
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Tuesday Night
A chance of rain showers before 2 am, then a chance of snow showers. Some thunder is also possible. Mostly cloudy, with a low of around 19. Blustery, with a south wind of 10 to 15 mph becoming northwest 20 to 25 mph in the evening. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph. The chance of precipitation is 50%.
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OBITUARIES:
Nadine F. (Talioli) Turnquist, 86, of Ottawa, passed away on Thursday, February 22nd, at the OSF St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Ottawa. Visitation will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. tomorrow at the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. tomorrow, at St. Francis of Assisi Church. Burial will follow at Oakwood Memorial Park in Ottawa.
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Kenneth “Papa” Geiger, age 71, of Ottawa, departed this earthly life Friday, February 23rd, in the presence of his loving family. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to Noon Thursday at Gladfelter-Roetker Funeral Home.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 12:30 p.m. on the 29th at St. Francis Church. Interment will follow in St. Columba Cemetery.
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Margaret Einhaus, 86, of Seneca, passed away Wednesday, February 14th, at the Arc at Dwight with her family by her side. A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 2nd, from 9:00 am until 11:00 am at the Seneca United Methodist Church. A funeral ceremony will follow at 11:00 am at the church. Private burial will take place in Evergreen Cemetery in Morris. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home.
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Leslie Sommer, 64, of Ottawa, passed away Sunday, February 25th, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Visitation will be on Saturday, March 2nd, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm at Ottawa Funeral Home. A funeral ceremony will follow at noon, at the funeral home. The family requests that all attendees wear their favorite Hawaiian apparel. Cremation rites have been entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home.
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Brandy Marie Kemper-Price, age 50, of Ottawa, was called to her heavenly home on Sunday, February 25th, with her devoted loved ones at her side. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 2nd, at Praise Center Assembly of God. Visitation for family and friends will be from 10 to 11 AM before the service. Gladfelter-Roetker Funeral Home is assisting the family.
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LOCAL SPORTS:
Girls basketball:
St. Bede defeated Skokie Ida Crown 63-39 to win the Class 1A Supersectional on Monday. St. Bede (29-7) will face defending state champion Okawville (23-11) in the state semifinals at 11:15 a.m. Thursday at Illinois State University’s CEFCU Arena in Normal.
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PRO & COLLEGE SPORTS:
The Bulls will try to get on a winning streak when they host the Detroit Pistons at United Center tonight. Tonight’s game gets underway at 7:00 PM.
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The Blackhawks are getting ready for their game against the Colorado Avalanche at United Center on Thursday. Thursday’s game starts at 8:00 PM.
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The Cubs managed just six hits during a 6-0 Spring Training loss to the Kansas City Royals at Surprise Stadium. Kyle Hendricks starts for Chicago against Cincinnati today.
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The White Sox gave up three runs in the top of the seventh during a 4-2 loss to the Texas Rangers in Spring Training at Camelback Ranch. Southsiders against the Dodgers today.
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Notre Dame looks to get back in the win column when the Irish host Wake Forest at Joyce Center tonight. Tonight’s game tips off at 8:00 PM Central Time.
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In other college basketball action tonight, Northern Illinois is at Toledo.