Hundreds gathered for a tribute to Ron Moore, the former longtime owner of the Root Beer Stand on Saturday, April 25, 2026 in Oglesby. Moore passed away on Wednesday. A root beer shot and moment of silence was held for Moore during the event. The restaurant also held its first Kick-Off Car Cruise of the season. Donations from the cruise helped fund the Kids Hot Rod Camp held June 15-19 at "The Rock" Walnut Community Bible Church in Walnut. The camp is open to kids ages 12-17.

St. Bede defeated Serena 2-0 on Friday, April 24, 2026 at St. Bede Academy.

Six mayors from Spring Valley, Utica, Ottawa, Peru, La Salle and Oglesby spoke at the 2026 Illinois Valley Chamber of Commerce State of the Cities Luncheon on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at Grand Bear Lodge at Starved Rock in Utica.

Marquette defeated Henry-Senachwine 13-2 on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at June Cross Field in Ottawa.

Ottawa fell to Kaneland 5-2 on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 on King Field at Ottawa High School.

Construction has begun on Logan’s Oasis playground at Marilla Park in Streator. The playground has been in the works for almost two years. The project is spearheaded by Melissa Crank and family members in memory of her late son, Logan Crank.

Uptown Grill hosted their 27th Annual Spaghetti Supper to support the Lighted Way Children’s Development Center in La Salle.

Emergency crews responded to Coogee Chemical Facility for a magnesium industrial fire on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 in Ottawa. Two victims with burns were transported to OSF St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Ottawa. One of those victims is in critical condition.

Morris defeated Ottawa 6-3 on Monday. April 20, 2026 at Ottawa High School.