Klaas announced recipient of 2026 Lovis Hearo Award
The Lovis Foundation is pleased to announce Hannah Klaas as a recipient of the 2026 Lovis Hero Award, recognizing her unwavering commitment to pursuing her personal best and inspiring others to do the same. Hannah’s superpower is her remarkable resilience and determination—qualities she brings to every academic, social, and community endeavor.
Read MoreSt. Francis Holy Ghost students making a difference in their community
The 7th and 8th grade students at St. Francis Holy Ghost School have proven that young people can make an extraordinary difference in their community. Through more than 15 creative and entrepreneurial projects completed throughout the school year, students collectively raised an incredible $21,676 to support women, babies, and families across the region.
Read MoreFriedel Ward Receives Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree
Makayla Friedel Ward, daughter of Neal and Charlene Friedel of Golden Eagle, Illinois, graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in May 2026. The college is one of only 35 accredited veterinary schools in the United States. Dr. Friedel Ward and her fellow graduates in…
Read MorePikeland school board addresses personnel matters
By BETH ZUMWALT The Pikeland Unit 10 school board handled many personnel matters at the May 20 meeting.
Read MoreJane Bradshaw receives second in NSDAR Creative Expression Poetry
Squier Insurance present Grinnell Mutual Road to Success Scholarship
Calhoun County Sheriff presents Goode Illinois Sheriff’s Association Scholarship
Illinois is failing its regional universities; it’s time to fix that
By KIRK DILLARD As someone who has spent their career in both policy and higher education, and as a current trustee for Western Illinois University, I have sadly witnessed the erosion of state support for regional universities. In fact, the western region of Illinois isn’t known as “Forgotonia” for no reason. Illinois has over time…
Read MoreProtecting students today means using every tool – wisely
By MATT HICKAM Regional Superintendent, Regional Office of Education 30 By any measure, the job of keeping students safe has become more complex.
Read MoreRIDGE RUNNER CHRONICLES: The 152nd Running of the Kentucky Derby—What a Joy to Watch!
When Russia invaded Ukraine four years ago, did you assume, like I did, that the Russian army, steeped in a history of eventually grinding down its opponents, would crush Ukraine in a matter of weeks?
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