May 04, 2025
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Photos: Animals blessed in Ottawa, La Salle

By Derek Barichello
Image 1 of 5
Deacon Ron Wackerlin blesses a trio of dogs (from left) Ernie with Nicole Wirtel; Rosie with Pat Pohl; Millie with Annabel Tomas on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2023, at OSF St. Elizabeth in Ottawa, during the blessing of animals in celebration of St. Francis of Assisi.

Deacon Ron Wackerlin blesses a trio of dogs (from left) Ernie with Nicole Wirtel; Rosie with Pat Pohl; Millie with Annabel Tomas on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2023, at OSF St. Elizabeth in Ottawa, during the blessing of animals in celebration of St. Francis of Assisi. (Derek Barichello)

Derek Barichello

Derek Barichello

Derek Barichello is the news editor for The Times in Ottawa and NewsTribune in La Salle, part of Shaw Local News Network, covering La Salle, Bureau and Putnam counties. He covers local and breaking news in the areas of government, education, business and crime and courts, among others.