Opinion

Did you know that manufacturing plays a significant role in our local, central Illinois economy? From small- and medium-sized local businesses to national brands employing almost 1,000 people, the impact of these businesses is critical for our area. However, after spending much time talking with these employers, I know they struggle to maintain a full…

The summer can be slow for bass fishermen. The water is warm and the oxygen that fish need for peak activity is not found in warmer water. Therefore, they tend to go deeper or become more active when the days are at their coolest.

Maybe you saw the video last week on YouTube—a mature zebra named “Ed” racing through a subdivision in Murfreesboro, Tennessee and then out to the interstate, racing next to cars headed to Nashville. The final video appearance for “Ed” during this week-long episode of “zebra spring break” showed that bad boy entangled in a net…

When I hear country music, my sneaker taps in a duet with the heartbeat of the tempo…and I know it’d feel better if that foot wore a cowboy boot.

I’ve been hanging out with my grandson. He’s only 6. He loves a diversity of things from mowing to basketball. A few weeks ago, I took him on his first fishing trip. We went to a friend’s pond. I knew I could teach Juda some of the nuances of fishing while ensuring his success in…

I inhaled the smell of freshly-cut grass as John entered the house this afternoon. His jeans bore shards of his work, and I watched a few green globs drop as he walked toward the refrigerator. “All done.” John grabbed his Coke from the frig door and took a triumphant swig. “You’re a murderer.” My eyes…

Last night (June 9), I attended a slide lecture by Colonel Mike Morrow (Ret.) regarding the Normandy Invasion. Colonel Morrow, now Mayor of Grafton, IL, is leading a group memorializing the American soldiers who were involved in the Omaha Beach portion of the invasion. The recent Memorial Day festivities here in the US, the 81st…

By Emily Swihart, Horticulture Educator University of Illinois Extension If you have noticed ragged, irregular holes in your hostas or other broad-leaf garden plants, you may be dealing with garden slugs.   These soft-bodied pests can be found in shady, moist gardens, and although small, they can cause significant damage. Identifying Slugs Slugs are members…

Many years ago, when I first started Outdoor Truths, I wanted to be connected with some hunting and fishing companies. I felt like any association would help me grow the influence I wanted to have. I was not only able to get some sponsorships, but I actually became a pro-staff member for a few of…

By Chris Enroth, Horticulture Educator University of Illinois Extension As demand for water resources and concern for water conservation increase across the U.S, drip irrigation is becoming a popular method to reduce water bills and safeguard water resources. Drip irrigation is a method that enables water to gradually seep onto the soil surface or directly…