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A group of international skydivers attempted to set both a world and a state record during jumps over Skydive Chicago in Ottawa on Wednesday. Skydivers were unable to perform the attempt on Tuesday due to weather conditions. The first attempt aimed to break the world record for a vertical formation but was unsuccessful. Later, divers exited the aircraft again to surpass the Illinois state record for the largest belly-to-earth formation. That attempt also did not result in a new record. Skydive Chicago is a frequent host of large-scale skydiving events and record attempts.

The Oglesby American Legion will hold its monthly steak fry from 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28. 

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Take a look at some of the week’s best photos, captured by Illinois Valley photographers from Sunday, Aug. 10, through Saturday, Aug. 16.

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Families gather for the kickoff youth soccer ceremony on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, at Peck Park in Ottawa. Check out these photos by MaKade Rios.

A new art gallery in downtown Seneca will open Friday, Aug. 15, with an exhibition featuring paintings by acclaimed visual artist J. Douglas Dalrymple.

Utica Public Library, 224 Mill St., announced several upcoming free events.

The Illinois Valley Alzheimer’s Caring Friends Support Group will meet at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 18 at the Peru Public Library.

Reddick Public Library District announced the schedule of events for the week of Aug. 18.

Here is the list of couples granted La Salle County marriage licenses from July 16 through July 31, 2025.