Opinion: Columns

July brought new changes to state laws.

What qualities do you look for in a leader? Think about the qualities you appreciate in a boss.

Of all the accolades heaped on the departed ferryman, his most frequently cited virtue was his generosity.

McHenry Alderwoman Chris Bassi shares her thoughts on proposed downtown development.

Soberness is based on availing ourselves to sound clear thinking, and subsequently allowing sound decision making to be afforded in each circumstance.

I believe nature speaks.

The Dixon: Historic Theatre has plans to offer playwriting, sketch writing like Saturday Night Live, acting and auditioning, and for you brave souls, stand-up comedy – all of which will have performances at the theater.

I recently went into St. Stephen Church in Streator for the first time since it was permanently shuttered in October, as a result of structural concerns.

On May 11, 1876, 91-year-old John Dixon followed his routine of walking to the post office from his home in North Dixon (at Jefferson and Bradshaw). But later that day, as the Chicago Tribune reported, he was “struck with palsy," which probably meant that he suffered a stroke.

There’s still time to sign up for the annual run on July 6.

Dietary supplements can mean vitamins but also minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, etc. They come in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, gummies and powders as well as drinks and energy bars.

This space — managed by the Geneva Park District, City of Geneva, and Forest Preserve District of Kane County — is now home to a new family of Carniolan Honey Bees!

Opinion|Vaughn: Lehan Drugs will host its annual community outreach 5K fundraiser run/walk in partnership with Kishwaukee United Way at 10 a.m. Sept. 15 and all are invited.

You might not be familiar with the term “hold space,” but I guarantee the concept is one from which we all can benefit.

Little runners aged 9 and under can participate for free.

United Way of Lee County also spotlights Franklin Creek Conservation Association, Dixon Community Gardens.

Summertime social gatherings can be triggering for individuals grappling with substance use disorder, writes Leonetta Rizzi, director of the McHenry County Mental Health Board.

Artistic producer: Do you have ideas for bands? Or any other events?

Running the Reagan Run can be more than just a physical challenge for a company. It can foster a sense of community, promote wellness and strengthen team dynamics.

Here I am, nearly 40 years later, often wandering into my own little world in a sea of animated chatter.

On June 20, 1927, 97 years ago, the citizens of Dixon voted to build one new high school for all northsiders and southsiders. After that momentous election, Dixon built “the castle,” its majestic high school that has stood along the banks of the Rock River for almost a century.

You might not know this but if you are going to eat cake, angel food is one of the lightest, lowest calorie choices. A 13-ounce cake cut into 12 slices is less than 75 calories per serving. Add a few fresh strawberries (also grilled) and you have a treat for only 100 calories.

As a lifelong lover of words, I believe in their power to communicate profound truths when used with careful intention.

The development of the Route 40/I-88 intersection is a significant step in our region’s growth.

Dr. Welty: This year start your own family tradition. Grab a family member or two and come on out to join us for this day of positive energy and fun.

June is here and it seems like the summer has exploded with activity, from the Dixon Market on Wednesday nights, the Milledgeville Jamboree and Clinton’s Tailgates and Tallboys to Pride Fest and Polo Town and Country Days! There are fantastic activities going on all over.

Stay hydrated and grab a snack before and after you hop onto the track. Proper nutrition is crucial and some of these tips and tricks are sure to help you have the best race possible.

I am a firm believer the thoughts we choose to entertain about ourselves, our environment and the world in which we live, have a powerful impact on our life experience.

Dixonites have used various names for the island just above the Dixon dam, such as Van Arnam’s Island, Island Park and City Island. Those who drive by this massive natural landmark each day may have wondered, “Has anything ever happened over there?” The answer: A lot.

Opinion: Since its creation in 2016, businesses in all participating DeKalb County Enterprise Zone municipalities have used the Building Materials Exemption Certificate (BMEC) incentive as part of their location within the zone, writes Andrea Van Drew.

This is a busy time of year with graduation parties, weddings, festivals, etc. If you are trying to watch your weight and/or stay healthy, it can be challenging.

Opinion: Kishwaukee United Way’s annual Day of Caring kicks off at 9 a.m. June 13 at its DeKalb headquarters, writes Michele Vaughn.

Cole: When a person makes the statement “I’m not a religious person,” what do they really mean?

Spirit Matters: I have always been magnetically drawn to the heart symbol.

Larry Reed, a long-time Dixon resident who you could see at numerous – if not all – Dixon community events, died May 24. A supporter of the Reagan Run 5K, he was well-known for ringing his cowbell out on the course.

Mangler: We would love everyone who reads and hears about the revival of The Dixon: Historic Theatre to consider us as one of your destinations for world-class entertainment!

If you’re not running or engaged in some physical fitness program, it’s never too late to start. It’s never too late to have an impact on your physical and mental health. It’s never too late to form a new habit.

This week I watched as a longtime family friend retired from Normal Community High School after 34 years of teaching there and in Round Lake.

This is the rarely told story of the “lost” Lincoln Pavilion, which was also known by other names. Created when the Sterling-Dixon electric trolley opened in May 1904, it was first called “Oak Park, the Sterling and Dixon pleasure park.”

May is Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month, and one of the things of which you should first be aware is the importance of physical activity in preventing osteoporosis and in limiting its progression.

Hellmich: KSB’s merger with OSF HealthCare holds great promise. As chairman of the KSB Board of Directors, I am convinced this merger will allow Judge Solomon Bethea’s life mission of providing superior local health care to live on for generations to come.

Sutcliffe: Together, we can witness the restoration of hope and the rebirth of our community. Together, we can demonstrate that the greatest force for change is the love of God, lived out through us, his people.

Katie Matteson’s journey to become a certified running coach is one marked by resilience, determination and a profound sense of purpose. This is her fifth year coaching for the Dixon Family YMCA Kids Just Wanna Reagan Run 5K training program.

This morning, when I woke up to fog outside my window, I felt a familiar sense of intrigue deep inside of me.

Wadsworth: When I first heard of an electric trolley car that traveled between Dixon and Sterling, I thought it was a myth. But 120 years ago, locals were thrilled when regular service began on the Sterling, Dixon & Eastern Electric Railway.

Dixon Kids is for children ages 5-10. Dixon Young Actors is for older actors ages 11-18.

Those experiencing hearing loss can now get an over-the-counter hearing aid or a prescription aid if a stronger one is needed for everyday use, writes Mercyhealth audiologist Dr. Marybeth Agulo.

Sterling alderman: We also need to ensure that we maximize the benefits of solar farm projects in our area.

Socrates said, "The misuse of language induces evil in the soul." He wasn’t talking about grammar.

Opinion: This year, the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce is celebrating 100 years of membership with a year full of exciting programs and educational campaigns, writes Alexis Aviles of the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce.