In past years, the store has opened in the former JCPenney in the Peru Mall. The store typically opens in mid-August.

The Peru City Council is split over a proposed UFO-themed water tower. Mayor Kolowski calls for public input, while aldermen back the design as a way to boost the city’s identity and regional appeal.

Former St. Bede quarterback Jack Brady has taken over as head coach at the Academy, succeeding Jim Eustice, who departed for neighboring Mendota. The Bruins finished 2-7, winning one of four games played in the Chicagoland Prairie Conference.

A judge refused Monday to reconsider his June 18 ruling against the late Chester Weger. Barring an appeal, Weger’s bid for exoneration is over.

More than 40 of the state's top senior baseball players participated in the Illinois Coaches Association All-Star Games on Monday at Schweickert Stadium in Peru.

The Oglesby American Legion will hold its monthly taco night from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 9.

Starved Rock Entertainment, 201 Donaldson St., Utica, announced the closure of the business later this month.

The council briefly considered establishing an e-bike committee during Monday night’s meeting, ultimately deciding they needed more time to discuss what forming a committee would entail, such as agendas and record-keeping.

The first half of the Prospect League season ended last week. The Pistol Shrimp finished third in the Western Conference Northwest Division with an 11-14 record.