How much does the marching band spend on new music each fall? Who pays to paint the school logo at midfield? What is the impact of overdue fines on the library budget? When I buy a box of popcorn at the pool, does any of that go toward lifeguard paychecks?

Dixon's Lowell Park has a remarkable history. In his column this week, historian Tom Wadsworth shares unique stories about who designed the park and the land's importance in northern Illinois as far back as the early 1800s.

The Illinois Economic Policy Institute and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s Project for Middle Class Renewal reported that the state currently is short 142,000 housing units but would need to open 227,000 units over the next five years to meet projected demand.

Nancy Gates, 90, has participated in nearly every Reagan Run 5K, motivated not by medals, but by the joy of being a part of the community.

I appreciate a quality professional display a few times a year yet have almost zero tolerance for amateur hour, especially when it extends across a whole weekend.

Police Chief Ryan Bivins asks those attending the festival to keep an eye on younger children so they don't get lost; to ask someone for a ride if you've been drinking at the festival; and to call police if you see something that doesn't feel right.

According to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, out-of-staters spent more than $1 million per day on recreational marijuana in 2024, accounting for 22.35% of annual sales.

This week's Reagan Run 5K column was written by Brittany Geiger, a longtime Reagan Run 5K participant and former Petunia Fest Board member. Geiger writes that the 5K marked the beginning of a life-long journey for herself and her son, Dean.

This week marks the anniversary of Gettysburg, the most famous battle of the Civil War.