Country star Trace Adkins performs at the Bureau County Fair in Princeton Thursday, Aug. 21.

The Starved Rock Country Community Foundation will celebrate its 10th anniversary this fall.

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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.

A celebration honoring world-renowned violinist Maud Powell will take place at 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22, at the Maud Powell statue in the Fourth Street courtyard in downtown Peru.

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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.

Plenty to do in the Illinois Valley this weekend, from the Princeton Farmers' Market to Ottawa's Third Friday event and more.

The application period for programs happening between Jan. 1 and June 30, 2026, ends Sept. 15. Grant announcements will be made in early October.

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Attendees enjoyed the Wenona Days festival, which included live music, family activities, a car show and fireworks. The festival will conclude with a parade on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025. Check out these photos by MaKade Rios.

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Young entrepreneurs showcased their talent during the 4th annual Children's Business Fair on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, at Washington Park in Ottawa.