April 9, 2026

A sampling of headlines in this week’s Sidell Reporter. To read the stories that go with this, plus many more articles in this week’s issue, subscribe today to read the Reporter in print and/or online. For details click here.

Catlin sets meeting on wind/solar ordinance

Vance Township takes first step in forming new cemetery board

New role, same store: Howe takes over at Casey’s

The Purrfect Crime on stage April 24-25 
The Salt Fork Drama Club will perform The Purrfect Crime on April 24 and 25. 

Vance park seeks donations

Fourth inning action gives Lady Storm win in first conference game


Storm collects 5 wins despite weather cutting event short

Storm falls short after 7th inning effort

Casting lines - Keeping memories alive

Obituaries

    MARK E. TODD, 63 of Sidell passed at 5:26 p.m. Sunday April 5, 2026, at his home. Services are pending at Robison Chapel, Catlin.

    CHRISTINE J. “CHRIS” FERREN, 57, of rural Fairmount, passed away 9:25 p.m  Sunday, March 29, 2026, at her home.
    Chris was born June 21, 1968 in Rantoul to David and Elizabeth Black Lemke, they preceded her in death. Survivors include, her partner, Shelly Smoot of Fairmount; one daughter, Nicole (Kaleb) Swarts of Monticello; four grandchildren, Tenley Swarts, Millie Paul, Cohen Swarts and Meri Paul.
    Chris retired from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, after 32 years and had been an Admin III in the housing department. After retirement, she found joy and purpose working at Autumn Fields Adult Community in Savoy making close friendships with the residents.  Chris enjoyed gardening and flowers, spending time with her grandkids, and the many long-lasting friendships she carried through her life.  She was passionate about life. She loved taking care of her friends and family, always making sure they never left with an empty stomach. She was active in the community and politics, attending rallies for causes she felt so passionate about whenever she got the chance.  She was also an avid reader, and a self-taught homicide detective from a slight obsession with true crime documentaries. 
Christine was loved and will be missed by so many people whose life she impacted.
    Memorial visitation 4-6 p.m. Friday, April 10 at Robison Chapel in Catlin. Memorials to Courage Connection in care of Robison Chapel. PO Box 79 Catlin, IL 61817.

 



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Special Issues Great for Jamaica Alumni
“A Look Back at 39 Years of Cardinal Pride.”
40 pages covering Jamaica sports from 1955-1995. Lots of pictures, stats and memories from fans and athletes. $15-pick up at Sidell Reporter; $17.50 to be mailed.

“The 50th Anniversary of Jamaica High School: 1955-2006” commemorative issue.
32 pages with over 100 photos depicting the first 50 years of Jamaica High School. Includes a list of all graduates and teachers. $15-pick up at Sidell Reporter; $17.50 to be mailed.

“Jamaica High Alumni Photo Album 1956-2015” 64-page album of each senior composite that hung in the hallway at Jamaica High. $15-pick up at Sidell Reporter, $19.50 to be mailed.