FATAL CRASH-US 41 & SR 14 (ENOS) MOROCCO, IN        

NEWTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE (9-28-23 8:00 pm)

On Thursday, September 28, 2023 at 10:55am, Newton County 9-1-1 received reports of a multi-vehicle crash at US 41 and SR 14.

The preliminary investigation indicates a semi-tractor (driven by a 31 year old Bourbonnais, IL woman) pulling a tanker (empty) was traveling west across all lanes of US 41 from SR 14.  The semi failed to yield to a south bound motor home that was pulling a car trailer.  The motor home was driven by a 70 year old Lake Village, IN man with his wife (73 years old) as a passenger.  The motor home struck the rear of the west bound semi’s trailer.  The impact pushed the two vehicles into an east bound semi that was stopped at the stop sign of CR 100 N (SR 14) and US 41.  The occupants of the motor home were entrapped and had to be extricated.

The Lake Village man was flown to a Chicago hospital with severe injuries.  His wife was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.  Both semi drivers refused medical treatment/transport.

No names are being released at this time as the crash remains under investigation and pending notification of next of kin.

The south bound lanes of US 41 were closed at SR 14 for about 6 hours for scene investigation and removal of the wreckage.

Assisting agencies: Newton County Communications, Newton County EMS, Morocco Fire, Lake Township Fire, Lowell Fire, Brook Fire, Indiana State Police, Indiana Conservation Police, Morocco Police, Newton County Prosecutor’s Investigator, Newton County EMA, Newton County Coroner and Lutheran Air.

SCHOOL BUS CRASH- KENTLAND

Newton County Sheriff’s Office (9-27-2023)

On Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 3:06PM, Newton County 9-1-1 received reports of a crash involving two school buses on CR 50 E at CR 1300S (South Newton campus).

The preliminary investigation indicates an east bound mini bus failed to yield the right-of-way to a north bound school bus.

South Newton School Corp administration and staff were on scene immediately to assess the well-being of all student passengers.

Passengers from the north bound bus were not injured and were transferred to another bus to resume the regular route.  Passengers from the mini-bus were evaluated by on-scene medics and released to parents.  The female driver of the mini bus was transported to an area hospital for evaluation.

Assisting agencies:  Newton County Communications, Newton County EMA, Newton County EMS, Kentland Fire, Kentland Police, Newton County Prosecutor’s Investigators and Indiana State Police

On September 16, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Lawrence W. Guynn, age 74, of Martintion. According to police reports, Guynn was charged with driving while license revoked. Guynn was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond and was released.

On September 17, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Jennifer L. Brock, age 33, of Sheldon. According to police reports, Brock was charged with domestic battery. Brock was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where she remains in lleu of bond.

On September 19, 2023, Iroquois County sheriff’s Police arrested Deitrick Baines, age 41, of Martintion. According to police reports, Baines was charged with aggravated fleeing and eluding, and driving while license revoked. In addition, Baines was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County warrant charging him with failure to appear for driving while license revoked. Baines was taken into custody after deputies attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle Baines was driving. Baines failed to stop and led police on a pursuit that entered Benton Co. Indiana before returning to Iroquois County. Baines’s vehicle eventually came to a stop in rural Milford where he was taken into custody without further incident. Baines was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond and was released.

On September 19, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Jeremy Garrison, age 43, of Bourbonnais and Angela Simpson, age 43, of Manteno. According to police reports, Garrison and Simpson were taken into custody after a vehicle they were traveling in was stopped by deputies. A probable cause search of the vehicle turned up suspected methamphetamine as well as drug paraphernalia. Garrison and Simpson were charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. In addition, Garrison was charged with obstructing identification and driving while license suspended. Garrison was also wanted on an outstanding Kankakee County warrant for shoplifting. Garrison and Simpson were taken into custody and transported to the Iroquois County Jail. Simpson posted the required bond and was released; Garrison awaited extradition to Kankakee County.

On September 8, 2023, Iroquois County Sh.eriff’s Police arrested Carlos A. Molina Ochoa, age 43, of Jacksonville, Florida. According to police reports, Ochoa was charged with retail theft under $300. Ochoa was taken into custody and transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond and was released.

A 36-year-old Travis Wood of, Stockland parrished in a single-vehicle accident Saturday night  around 11:40 pm in Iroquois County. Wood was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Iroquois County Coroner's Office.  Sheriff's Police said his vehicle on 2850 E Road left the roadway and ran thru two ditches before overturning serveral times.  The vehicle came to rest on its roof in a standing corn field.  A passenger was treated for minor injuries at Iroquois Memorial Hospital in Watseka.  

Iroquois county Sheriff's Police, Coroner's office, Stockland Fire and Milford Fire/EMS assisted. 

On 09/07/2023 at approximately 5:00 PM Newton County Dispatch received 911 calls in reference to a car versus semi crash on Southbound US 41 at County Road 350 South in Morocco.

The preliminary investigation by Deputy Scheckel indicates a Buick passenger car driven by a 63 year old Rensselaer, IN man crossed US 41 at CR 350S.  The vehicle failed to yield to a southbound tractor/trailer driven by a 33 year old Jackson, MI man.

The driver of the Buick was extricated from the vehicle by Morocco Fire personnel, treated by Newton County EMS and flown to a Chicago area hospital for serious injuries.

The driver of the semi was refused medical attention at the scene.

Names are being withheld at this time.

Assisting agencies: Newton County Communications, Morocco Fire, Morocco Police Dept, Newton County EMS and Lutheran Air.

State Senator Tom Bennett (R-Gibson City) joined state and local leaders along with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) in Gilman to celebrate the $250 million capital investment at Incobrasa Industries LTD’s soybean manufacturing facility. The expansion will help increase jobs, commerce, and production capacities, said Senator Bennett.

“I am honored that I was able to join today to celebrate this major investment in our agricultural industry right here in our community,” said Sen. Bennett. “Illinois is the leader of soybean production, so we must capitalize on creating more jobs, boosting our economy, and continuing to provide the world with useful soybean products.” 

Incobrasa has been a leader in soybean processing for decades, processing around 120,000 bushels daily. It is essential for manufacturing products such as vegetable oil, animal feed, and biodiesel. It will be home to an additional 170,000-square-foot state-of-the-art biodiesel production plant and a 50-acre solar array to help fuel the facilities. This expansion will also provide construction jobs for workers across the region, create new and permanent careers, double its production capacity, and boost the economy.

Illinois is currently fourth among all states in biodiesel production and third in consumption, with around 160 million gallons consumed annually. This expansion will allow the company to use a substantial supply of soybeans and produce more animal feed, packaged vegetable oil, and biodiesel. It is expected that the company will more than double its production capacity by 2030.

“Investing in plants such as Incobrasa will help ensure that we are meeting the recent demands of this high-blend renewable fuel,” said Sen. Bennett. “I look forward to seeing what more Incobrasa can accomplish.” 

On September 1st at 11:40 PM, Newton County deputies responded to the intersection of SR 14 and CR 100 E for the report of a two vehicle crash.

The preliminary investigation by Cpl. Fenley indicates a Honda Civic (driven by a 24 year old Milwaukee, WI man) was traveling eastbound on SR 14 when it began to have mechanical problems. The driver of the Honda stopped in the roadway with no lights activated. A passing vehicle nearly hit the Honda before turning around and offering assistance. The driver of the Honda attempted to move his vehicle further off the road and pulled his vehicle to the north side of the road into the grass shoulder, but was still partially on the roadway in the westbound lane.  A Freightliner box truck (driven by a 33 year old Montgomery, IL woman) was traveling westbound on SR 14 noticed the vehicle of the good Samaritans, who had stopped, but not the Honda. The Freightliner then struck the disabled Honda then ran off the roadway and overturned.

The male driver and female passenger of the Honda were transported to an area hospital for non-life threatening injuries.

The female driver (sole occupant) of the Freightliner was evaluated on scene and found to have no injuries. She was then provided courtesy transport to a local hotel for the evening.

Assisting agencies;  Newton County 9-1-1 Communications, Newton County EMS and Morocco Fire Department.

On 09/01/2023 at approximately 4:01 PM Newton County Dispatch received multiple 911 calls in reference to a two vehicle crash on US 41 near County Road 500 North.  Deputies were dispatched along with fire and medical personnel to the scene.

Through witness statements and scene investigation, it was determined that a Northbound passenger car driven by a 24 year-old Lafayette, Indiana woman was disabled on the left shoulder and was partially blocking the left lane.  A 64 year-old Ohio man driving a northbound pickup truck did not see the vehicle in his lane and struck it from behind.

The female driver was standing outside of her vehicle at the time of the collision and was not injured.  The male sustained multiple injuries and was removed from his vehicle by witnesses before emergency personnel arrived.  Medical staff transported the male to an area hospital for his injuries.  Northbound lanes of US 41 were closed for a little more than an hour during the investigation and cleanup efforts.

Assisting agencies:Newton County Dispatch, Morocco Police Department, Newton County Prosecutor’s Office Drug Task Force, Morocco Fire, Lake Township Fire, Newton County EMS, Newton County EMA and Tri-Creek EMS.

 Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), Zone 1 is requesting the public’s assistance in the investigation surrounding the death of 52-year-old Bert N. Lawton of Grant Park, IL. On August 27, 2023 at approximately 2:45 a.m., ISP Troop 5 responded to a hit and run crash involving a motorcycle and passenger vehicle on 14000 East and 4000 North Road in Momence, IL. The driver of the motorcycle, Bert N. Lawton, was transported to an area hospital and pronounced deceased. The offending vehicle fled the scene westbound onto 4000 North Road into Momence and is believed to have sustained heavy front-end damage. Anyone with information regarding this crash is asked to contact the ISP DCI Zone 1 at 815-209- 6567. Witnesses can remain anonymous. 

The Watseka Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the location for the business after hours on Wednesday, September 6th, 2023, from 5:00pm-7:00pm, hosted by the Watseka Masonic Lodge they are located at 2125 E. 1730 N. Road Watseka.

All Chamber members, their employees, and guests or any business or organization who would like to learn more about the Chamber or becoming a member are invited to come socialize and enjoy refreshments along with a 50/50 drawing.

The September Business of the Month will be selected, bring as many of your co-workers to greater your chances you must be present to be eligible.

On 08/28/2023 at approximately 5:44 AM the Newton County Dispatch Center received a 911 call regarding a vehicle crash involving a passenger car and moped on State Road 16 near County Road 300 East.

Police, fire and medical personnel were immediately dispatched to the scene.  Upon their arrival, deputies found a male subject unresponsive in the roadway.  Despite life-saving efforts, the male was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

Preliminary investigation shows that the male (63 year old, Rensselaer address) was driving a moped eastbound on State Road 16 when he was struck from behind by another eastbound vehicle.  The man was ejected from the moped and came to rest in the westbound lane.  The female driver of the other vehicle involved stated that she did not see the moped in front of her in the dark. A witness told officers on scene that the moped’s lights were very dim.  State Road 16 was closed temporarily while officers processed the scene.  All names are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Assisting Agencies:  Newton County Communications, Newton County EMS, Brook Fire and the Newton County Coroner’s Office.

On Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at approximately 11:35 a.m., KAMEG Agents, assisted by the Bradley Police Department and Kankakee City Police Department, arrested 32-year-old Michael R. Bielecki of Bradley, IL, following a search warrant at his residence, 1217 E. Broadway St., Bradley. The search warrant execution resulted in the seizure of 2 handguns, 1 rifle and 1 shotgun, approximately 226.4 grams of suspected cocaine, approximately 400 grams of suspected cannabis, multiple rounds of various caliber ammunition and magazines, drug paraphernalia, United States Currency and two vehicles.  

Bielecki has been initially charged with the following: Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver (100-500 grams) and Unlawful Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Deliver (30-500 grams).  

On Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at approximately 6:06 a.m., KAMEG Agents, assisted by Illinois State Police SWAT, Illinois State Police Troop 5, the Kankakee City Police Department and the Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office, arrested 54-year-old Gary M. Mitchell, and 51-year-old Jane A. Clark, both of Kankakee, IL, following a search warrant at their residence, 1946 S. Sandbar Rd., Kankakee. The search warrant execution resulted in the seizure of ten firearms (handguns, shotguns and rifles), approximately 4,100 grams of suspected cannabis, 12 cannabis plants, approximately 6 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, 1000+ rounds of various caliber ammunition, United States Currency, two vehicles, a motorcycle, a boat, two trailers and a skid steer. 

Mitchell, who is a convicted felon, has been initially charged with the following: Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon by Felon, Unlawful Use of a Weapon-No FOID, Unlawful Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Deliver, Unlawful Production of Cannabis Plants (5-20 plants), Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance and No FOID.  

Clark has been initially charged with the following: Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon – No FOID, Unlawful Production of Cannabis Plants (5-20 plants), Unlawful Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Deliver, and Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance.

KAMEG reminds the public to call KAMEG at (815) 933-1710 to report non-emergency information about drug dealing, illegal firearms and gang problems.  We recognize our partnership with the public is important for quality of life issues for our citizens and children.   

KAMEG is comprised of personnel from the Illinois State Police, Bradley Police Department, Bourbonnais Police ‎Department, ‎ Kankakee Police Department, Kankakee ‎County Sheriff’s ‎Office, and the Kankakee County State’s Attorney’s ‎Office.

On August 16th, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Deitrick D. Baines, age 41, of Martintion. According to police reports, Baines was wanted on outstanding warrants from Kankakee and Vermilion Counties for driving while license revoked. Baines was aware of hls warrant and turned himself into the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond and was released.

On August 18, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Ashley Kinney, 39, of Gilman, According to police reports, Deputies located Kinney in the 800 block of Hwy 24 West. Deputies knew Kinney to have an outstanding Iroquois County warrant for Failure to Appear on an original charge of driving while Registration is Suspended. Kinney was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where she later posted the required bond and was released.

On August 18, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Bobbie Perez, 36, of Watseka. According to police reports, Deputies were called to the area of2200 E. and Twp Rd 165 for the report of a female subject trespassing on private property. Deputies arrived on scene and made contact with Perez. Deputies knew Perez had been previously trespassed warned from the property. Deputies placed Perez into custody for Criminal Trespass to Real Property. Perez was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where she later posted the required bond and was released.

On August 21, Iroquois County Sheriffs’ Police arrested Deitrick Baines, 4 l, of Martinton. According to police reports, Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven by Baines for Offenses Relating to Titles and Registration. Deputies knew Baines to have a

revoked Illinois driver’s license. Baines was taken into custody for Driving While License Revoked. Baines was taken to

the Iroquois County Jail where he later posted the required bond and was released.

A Milford man was killed in a single-vehicle accident Aug. 18 near Milford.

According to Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police reports, Tyler Fanning, 24, was killed in the accident at 1:11 a.m. Aug. 18 on 1050 N near 2540 E in rural Milford.

According to police reports, Fanning was driving a 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and was eastbound on 1050 N near 2540 E when for unknown reasons the vehicle left the roadway.

The vehicle entered the south ditch and traveled for approximately 242 feet before striking a field entrance. Fanning’s vehicle became airborne and traveled approximately 41 feet before striking the ditch a second time causing the vehicle to roll. The vehicle came to rest on its side near a culvert. Fanning was extricated from the vehicle by Milford Fire and Milford EMS. Riverside EMS arrived on scene and pronounced Fanning deceased.

The accident remains under investigation by Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police.

– An Illinois State Police (ISP) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) death investigation resulted in the arrest of 44-year-old Scott E. Peterson from Kankakee for First Degree Murder (Class M Felony).

On August 17, 2023, Watseka Police Department (WPD) requested ISP DCI Zone 5 to investigate a double homicide that occurred in the 300 block of West North Street. WPD responded to the area for a shot’s fired call and located two deceased victims in a residence. The victims are identified as 42-year-old Amanda Peterson and 38-year-old Joseph Robinson.  A 21-year-old male was also located with gunshot wounds and was transported to an area hospital for treatment. WPD took Peterson into custody immediately following the incident.

Peterson is being held in the Iroquois County Jail where he will be charged with First Degree Murder (2 counts each victim) and bond will be set.

No further information will be released at this time.

During the warrant sweep, the following individuals were arrested:

Ramiro Luna, age 21, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance (Psilocybin).

Ernest Brookshaw, age 43, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance. 

Randolph Douglas, age 29, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

Mario Rivers, age 39, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for three counts of Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

Malik Staples, age 42, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance. Upon arrest, Staples was found in possession of less than one gram of suspected heroin/fentanyl, resulting an in additional charge of Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance and Bringing Controlled Substance into Penal Institution. 

Ronald Cox, age 61, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for two counts of Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

Pierre Washington, age 30, of Kankakee, IL was arrested on a valid Kankakee County Warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

Nelson Williams Sr., age 56, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

Michael W. Crawford, age 65, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

Shelana K. Woods, age 41, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County warrant for Disorderly Conduct and an Illinois Department of Corrections warrant.

Tubbie L. Gordon Jr, age 53, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County warrant for traffic offenses.

Henry L. Allen, age 43, of Kankakee, IL, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance. Upon his arrest, Allen was found in possession of approximately 27 grams of suspected cocaine, resulting in an additional charge of Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver.

Dennis Brown, age 39, of Pembroke Township, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County warrants for Aggravated DUI, Aggravated Battery, Resisting, Endangering a Child and Criminal Damage to Property.

Sarah M. Ward, age 32, of Pembroke Township, was arrested on a valid Newton County, Indiana, warrant for Fugitive of Justice and Possession of a Syringe.

Elijah Marquez, age 26, of Kankakee, was arrested for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

Christopher Thompson, age 47, of Kankakee, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County warrant for 2 counts of Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

Derron Washington, age 48, of Kankakee, was arrested on a valid Kankakee County warrant for Unlawful Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

All subjects were transported to and detained at the Jerome Combs Detention Center (Kankakee County).

KAMEG reminds the public to call KAMEG at (815) 933-1710 to report non-emergency information about drug dealing and gang problems.  We recognize our partnership with the public is important for quality of life issues for our citizens and children.   

On July 29^th, 2023 at 6:33 PM, Newton County Deputies responded to the intersection of US 41 and SR 14 (Enos) for reports of a personal injury crash involving two vehicles.

The preliminary investigation by Deputy Sanders indicates a 2023 Genesis G70 (driven by a 26 year old Corpus Christi, TX man) was traveling southbound on US 41 when it attempted to make an eastbound turn onto SR 14.  The driver failed to yield the right of way to a 2011 GMC Terrain (driven by a 47 year old Morocco, IN man) traveling northbound on US 41 causing a collision at the intersection.

The male driver and female passenger of the GMC were transported to an area hospital for non-life threating injuries.

The male driver (sole occupant) of the Genesis was treated on scene for a complaint of pain.

Assisting agencies; Newton County 9-1-1 Communications, Newton County EMS, Morocco Fire Department.

On July 21st, 2023 at 5:29 PM, Newton County Deputies responded to the US 41 Motorplex for reports of a fatal injury crash involving one vehicle.

The preliminary investigation by Deputy Sanders indicates a 1996 Mustang (driven by a 45 year old Mackinaw, IL man) was performing a solo timed run on the track. The vehicle, for an unknown reason, lost control after crossing the finish line. The vehicle then collided with the guardrail causing it to become airborne before coming to rest in a nearby wooded area. The crash resulted in the vehicle catching fire and the death of the sole occupant.

Assisting agencies; Newton County 9-1-1 Communications, Newton County EMS, Morocco Fire Department, Indiana State Police and Newton County Coroner.

Maizie Activities Bingo Scavenger Hunt – 10 am – 6 pm Wednesday-Sunday Kids Zone hours 10 am-6 pm Wednesday – Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm Sunday Iroquois County Fair Photo Finds (Scavenger Hunt) Tuesday 5:00 to Saturday 10:00 pm JJC’S Rock Hunt Petting Zoo Fun Carvings by Brad Larson Wednesday – Saturday 10:00 am - 8:00 pm Sunday 11:00 am – 6:00 pm Monday, July 17 9:00 am 4-H Visual Arts Judging by Club 1:30 pm 4-H Clothing Judging Tuesday, July 18 7:00 am Beef Premiere at Decker’s 7:00 am Livestock Arrival – Earlier time with Superintendent present 8:00 am Swine weigh-in 8:30 am Food Sale Drop off for Sale 9:00 am Horse arrival 9:00 am 4-H Food Judging by Club 9:00 am 4-H Horticulture/Gardening and Crops 10:00 am Beef weigh-in 11:00 am Sheep weigh-in 12:00 – 3:00 pm Goat weigh-in 12:00 pm Dairy Cattle weigh-in 12:00 pm All Livestock in place 1:00 pm FFA Show – Horses, Dairy, Rabbits 2:00 pm FFA Show – Small Animals/Pets, Dogs 2:00 pm 4-H Food Sale – at 4-H Center 3:00 pm FFA weigh-ins concluded 3:00 pm FFA Ag Products Show 3:00 - 5:00 pm Ag Products Arrival in Open Building 4:00 pm FFA Shows - Goat, Swine 5:00 pm Talent Show at the Grandstand 5:00 - 7:30 pm Junior & Open Ag Products, Culinary, Fine Arts, Floriculture & Children’s Division drop off 5:00 pm FFA Shows - Beef, Sheep 6:00 pm till close Swyear Amusements – $2.00 rides 7:00 pm Opening Ceremonies Presentation of Clubs Recognition of Graduating 4-H members Little Miss & Queen Pageant Wednesday, July 19 7:00 - 9:00 am Junior & Open Ag Products, Culinary, Fine Arts, Floriculture & Children’s Division drop off 8:00 am 4-H Beef Show 8:00 am 4-H Sheep Show 8:00 am 4-H Swine Show 8:00 am 4-H Goat Show 8:00 am 4-H Horse Show 8:00 am 4-H, Junior, Open & FFA Poultry Show 9:00 am Junior & Open Ag Products 9:30 am Junior & Open Culinary, Fine Arts, Floriculture, & Children’s Division 10:00 am Make Your Own Ice Cream (while supplies Last) in Kids Zone 12:00 pm Commercial Buildings Open 1:00 pm Genealogy Presentation in Tent 2:00 pm Maizie Meet n’ Greet in Kid Zone 2:00 pm 4-H Cat Show 2:00 pm 4-H Dairy Cattle Show 4:00 pm Milking Cow in Dairy Barn 6:00 pm Charcuterie Boards by Jade Crawford in 4-H Center 6:00 – 10:00 pm Swyear Amusements – Armbands 6:00 pm ITPA Tractor Pull 7:00 pm Notification of Species for Livestock Sale 8:00 pm Commercial Buildings Close 8:00 pm Sheep Premiere Show 9:00 pm Junior & Open Building Closes Thursday, July 20, 8:00 am Junior Beef Show 8:00 am Junior Sheep Show 8:00 am Junior Swine Show 8:00 am Junior Horse Show 8:00 am Junior Goat Show 8:00 am 4-H & Junior Rabbit Show 9:00 am General 4-H Projects & Cloverbud Judging by Club 10:00 am Blindfold Teamwork Course in Kids Zone 12:00 pm Commercial Buildings Open 1:00 pm Master Gardener’s Mary Dickinson in Tent 1:30 pm General 4-H Projects Judging by Club 2:00 pm Maizie Meet n’ Greet in Kids Zone 2:00 pm 4-H Dog Obedience Show 4:00 pm Milking Cow in Dairy Barn 5:00 pm Barn Quilts by Renee Byarley in 4-H Center 6:00 pm till close Swyear Amusements – 2 riders for price of one 7:30 pm Demo Derby 8:00 pm Commercial Buildings Close 9:00 pm Junior & Open Building Closes Friday, July 21 8:00 am Draft Horse Show 9:00 am Master Showman Contest 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Quilt Show in 4-H Center 10:00 am Antique Aprons by Gwen Thomas in 4-H Center 10:00 am Draft Horse Hitch Show 11:00 am Rock Painting in Kids Zone 12:00 pm Junior & Open Building Opens 12:00 pm Commercial Buildings Open 1:00 pm Yoga with Crystal in Tent 1:00 pm Horse Pull Contest 1:00 pm 4-H & FFA Livestock Sale 2:00 pm Maizie Meet n’ Greet in Kids Zone 4:00 pm Milking Cow in Dairy Barn 4:00 pm 4-H Style Show 5:00 pm Open Style Show (Following 4-H Show) 5:45 pm Vintage Hat Show in 4-H Center 6:00 pm till close Swyear Amusements – Regular Price 8:00 pm T & A Bucking Bulls Rodeo 8:00 pm Commercial Buildings Close 9:00 pm Junior & Open Building Closes Saturday, July 22 7:30 am Gaming Expo Horse Show 8:00 am Open Beef Show 8:00 am Open Sheep Show 8:00 am Open Swine Show 8:00 am Open Goat Show 8:00 am Open Adult Rabbit Show – North end of Dairy Barn 8:00 am Open Youth Rabbit Show – Rabbit Barn 8:00 am Annual Tractor Drive 8:30 am Open Gaming Horse Show 10:00 am Maizie Meet n’ Greet in Kids Zone 11:30 am Tractor Drive Returns 12:00 pm Junior & Open Building Opens 12:00 pm Commercial Buildings Open 1:00 pm Bags Tournament Registration 1:00 pm Historical Society Presentation in 4-H Center 1:00 pm Registration for Kids Tractor Pull at Slow Boys Tent 1:00 – 5:00 pm Swyear Amusements – One less ticket per ride 1:30 pm 3 on 3 Basketball 2:00 pm Bags Tournament – Sponsored by Kiwanis 2:00 pm Kids Tractor Pull at Slow Boys Tent 2:00 pm Barn Tours – Start at Swine Barn 3:00 pm Costume Goat Show 4:00 pm Barn Tours – Start at Swine Barn 4:00 pm Milking Cow in Dairy Barn 4:00 pm Repurposing Furniture by Janell Miller in 4-H Center 5:00 pm till close Swyear Amusements – Regular Price 7:00 pm Christian Music Concert – 8:00 pm Commercial Buildings Close 9:00 pm Junior & Open Building Closes Sunday, July 23 8:00 am Open Pleasure Horse Show 9:00 am Car Show Registration 9:30 am All Faith Church Service 11:00 am Maizie Meet n’ Greet in Kids Zone 12:00 pm Tractor Pull 12:00 pm Junior & Open Building Opens 12:00 pm Commercial Buildings Open 12:00 pm Car Show sponsored by Reed Family Car Shows Jason Reed 1:00 – 5:00 pm Swyear Amusements - Armbands 1:00 pm Costume Sheep Lead Contest 1:30 pm 3 on 3 Basketball 2:00 pm Livestock and General Projects release 2:00 pm Candy Bar Bingo – bring a candy bar to play in Kids Zone 3:00 pm Car Show Awards 5:00 pm till close Swyear Amusements – Regular price All events and times are subject to change. Check Facebook and website for updates. Fair Office Telephone Number Fair Police Telephone Number 815-683-2359 815-683-2550 (For Emergencies

On 06/30/2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police report Austin Freehill, 30, of Watseka, turned himself in on an Iroquois County warrant charging him with Aggravated Domestic Battery. Freehlll later posted the required bond and was released.

On 07/04/2023, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested a juvenile in Woodland. According to the police reports, Deputies responded to the 100 block of E. Main St. in Woodland. Deputies met with a victim who state~ a juvenile threatened him with a knife. The juvenile was located and taken to the Iroquois County jail for Aggravated Assault where he was later released to the custody of the juvenile’s parents.

On 07/04/2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Dennis Koger, 27, of Woodland. According to police reports, Deputies responded to the 300 block of Miner St. in Woodland for a domestic disturbance. Deputies conducted their investigation on scene and Koger was arrested.Koger was charged with Domestic Battery and Resisting Arrest. Koger was transported to the Iroquois County jail where he later posted the required bond and was released.

On 07/05/2023, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Stephanie Harmon, 33, of Gilman. Harmon had an outstanding Iroquois County warrant for Violation of Probation and Duty to Register. According to police reports, Deputies located Harmon in the 300 block of S. Central St. in Gilman. Harmon was taken into custody and was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where she remained in lieu of bond.

On 07/05/2023, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Tal Harweger, 59, of Buckley. Harweger had an outstanding Ford County warrant for Probation Violation. According to police reports, Deputies located Harweger in the 200 block of E. Central St. in Buckley. Harweger was taken into custody and transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains extradition to Ford County.

On 07/06/2023, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Alfred Layton, 51, of Rankin. According to police reports, Iroquois County Sheriffs deputies attempted to stop a vehicle on St. Rt. 49 near Cissna Park Deputies report Layton failed to yield to emergency vehicles. Layton was located a short time later and taken into custody. Layton was charged with Driving While License Revoked, Fleeing and Eluding Police, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Layton was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remained in lieu of bond.

On 07/06/2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Edward Reed, 34, of Milford. According to police reports, Deputies were called to a business in the 100 block of E. Jones St. in Milford for the report of a subject trespassing at the business. Deputies arrived on scene and learned that Reed had been previously trespassed from the business. Deputies located Reed nearby and took him into custody. Reed was charged with Criminal Trespass to Property. Reed was transported to the Iroquois County jail where he later posted the required bond and was released.

On 07/06/2023, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police report Annabelle Gordon, 21, of Watseka, turned herself into the Iroquois County jail. According to police reports, Gordon had an outstanding Iroquois County warrant for Retail Theft. Gordon later posted the required bond and was released.

On 07/06/2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Marcal Smith, 18, of Rantoul. According to police reports, Smith was in custody at the Champaign County jail on an Iroquois County warrant for Failure to Appear on an original charge of Driving While License Revoked. Deputies transported Smith from the Champaign County jail to the Iroquois jail where he remained in lieu of bond

Opening day of Iroquois Memorial Hospital’s newest primary care clinic in St. Anne, IL on July 18 is less than two weeks away! As a family physician and the main provider at the IMH Medical Group in St. Anne, Dr. Shushunov, General Practice/Pediatrics, is eager to begin caring for patients. He provides comprehensive medical care for people of all ages, specializing in pediatric care. We are now scheduling appointments for new patients, which can be scheduled by calling 815.427.1324 on any weekday. Clinic hours of operation will be Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. The IMH Medical Group clinic in St. Anne will be located at 135 West Station Street, St. Anne, IL 60964. Please visit imhrh.org or follow Iroquois Memorial Hospital on Facebook at Facebook.com/imhrh to stay up to date as more details come available.

The Iroquois Fair Talent Show will be held in front of the grandstand opening night July 18, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. prior to the Queen Contest

Our 51st Talent Show will have contestant in two levels. Among the Junior Division contestants will be the dance group Elite Energy with dancers Reece Castongia, Dahlia Johnson, Addison McTaggart, Alari Moreland, Natalie Tatro, and Melody Vice dancing to Crown Up; Ainsley Niewold will bring a rousing trumpet solo with Lyra; dance group The First Impressions with dancers Haddie Devries, Eleanora Hildebrand, Emmaline Hildebrand, Carroll Prince and Melody Vice dancing to You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile; Paige Miller will bring to life the Broadway hit Tightrope from Hamilton; The Drama Llamas will bring to our stage their rendition of The Young and the Soapless; Abby Tindle will bring to you This is Me from the musical Hamilton; Reed Goldenstein will put his magic fingers on the piano with a rousing Piano Medley; Claire Schumacher will sing Almost There from The Princess and the Frog; Kate Sabol and Ellie Simpson will partner up on the piano with Bluegrass Bounce; Natalie Ader will round out the Junior Division singing the hit Tishomingo.

Senior Division will present their talent with Julia Hilgerman belting out Therapy from Tik Tik Boom; Rachael Dexter will sparkle with In my Dreams from Anastasia; Marisa Clark will shine with When He Sees Me from Waitress; Julia Hilgerman and Lillian Unger will finish out the Senior Division with You Give Love a Bad Name.

The division winners will be performing in January 2024 during the annual IAAF convention at the annual IAAF State Talent Contest.

Trophies are sponsored by Country Theatre Workshop, Cissna Park. Monetary awards and entry fees to the state contest are sponsored by the Iroquois County Fair.

Talent Show Committee consists of Pat Ward, 815-383-1269, Pam Hibbert, 815-383-2965, Gary Cahoe, 815-471-4870, and Jordyn Ward 815-383-127

On June 23, 2023, Milford Police Department arrested Edward Reed, 34, of Milford. According to police reports, the Milford Police Department responded to a customer refusing to leave the business located in the 100 block of W. Jones St in Milford. Milford Police arrived on scene and took Reed into custody. Reed was charged with Obstructing a Peace Officer and Criminal Trespass. Reed was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he later posted the required bond and was released.

On June 23, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested a juvenile. According to police reports, the juvenile had an outstanding Iroquois County warrant. The juvenile was taken into custody and transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 26, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police returned from Tippecanoe County Indiana with Katie Chavez, 39, of Fowler, IN. According to police reports, Chavez had an outstanding Iroquois County warrant for a Probation Violation. Chavez was transported to the Iroquois County jail where she remains in lieu of bond.

On June 26, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Orlando Salinas, 35, of Onarga. According to police reports, Deputies were called to the 100 block of W. Grant in Onarga for a domestic incident. Deputies arrived on scene and discovered Salinas had two active Iroquois County warrants for domestic battery. Salinas was transported to the Iroquois County jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 29, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Broe Klecan, 22, of Milford. According to police reports, deputies were called to the scene in the 100 block of S. Bluff St. in Milford. Deputies conducted their investigation, and Klecan was placed into custody for Domestic Battery. Klecan was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he later posted the required bond and was released.

On June 28, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police responded to a two-vehicle accident at the intersection of 500 N. and 500 E., Loda Township. According to police reports, Donnie Knuth was driving a 2015 Ford F150 southbound or 500 E approaching the 500 N. intersection. Knuth failed to yield the right away and struck a 2012 Chevy Impala being driven by Sarah Hoover of Memphis Tennessee. A juvenile in Hoover’s vehicle was transported to nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Knuth was issued a citation for Failure to Yield at an Intersection. Both vehicles were towed from the scene.

A total of 7 children entered the 2023 Lil’ Mr. & Miss Firecracker contest. This year’s contest consisted of a coloring contest for area children ages 3 through 7. Lil Miss Firecracker is Eiley Smith of Watseka, Illinois. Eiley is 4 years old and is the daughter of Ashley Burns and Mitch Smith. Lil Mr. Firecracker is Cullen McTaggart of Watseka, Illinois. Cullen is 5 years old and is the son of Sara & Nathan McTaggart. The winners will ride in the 2023 City of Watseka “Red, White, & Blue” Independence Day Parade on July 4th beginning at 10:00 a.m. All of the coloring sheets will be on display at the Chamber office until the 4th of July located at 110 South 3rd Street in Watseka.

On June 21, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Mauricio Moreno, 19, of Gilman. According to police reports, the Watseka Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the 300 block of E. Sheridan in Watseka. During the investigation of the traffic stop, officers and deputies located a juvenile who was listed as a runaway. Deputies learned the runaway juvenile had been staying with Mauricio for approximately one month. Mauricio was placed into custody and charged with Harboring a Runaway. Mauricio was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he later posted the required bond and was released.

On June 21, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Brandon Bennett, 44, of Onarga. According to police reports, Deputies were called to the 900 block of W. Seminary Ave. in Onarga for the report of a domestic disturbance. Deputies conducted their investigation and placed Brandon into custody for Domestic Battery. Brandon was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he remains in lieu of bond.

On June 22, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police arrested Bayleah Moore, 23, of Gilman. According to police reports, deputies were called to the 300· block of E. 3rd St. in Gilman. Deputies were informed that the caller held an active Order of Protection against Bayleah. Deputies confirmed a violation had occurred and placed Bayleah into custody for Violation of Order of Protection. Bayleah was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where she remains in lieu of bond.

On June 22, 2023, Iroquois County Sheriffs Police arrested Mark James, 56, of Buckley. According to police reports, deputies were called in reference to a disturbance in the 400 block of E. Main St. of Buckley. Deputies spoke to the parties involved. Deputies then placed James into custody for Aggravated Assault. James was transported to the Iroquois County Jail where he posted the required bond and was released.