As Thanksgiving weekend kicks off the holiday season, chambers and downtown groups across the Illinois Valley are reminding shoppers to stay local and support small businesses while buying gifts for loved ones.

Advocates of the SAFE-T Act say the law is not to blame for the arson attack of a Chicago train passenger and the arrest record of the man charged with the attack shows cash bail system didn’t work.

The Illinois Valley Community College Board of Trustees recognized the women’s tennis team on Tuesday, Nov. 18 and approved a $75,000 grant for nursing program improvements.

Shepherd Middle School in Ottawa has announced its honor roll students for the first trimester of the 2024-25 school year.

The JOY group for senior men and women will meet at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at Park Presbyterian Church, 201 N. Vermillion St., Streator.

Ahead of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is reminding residents to use caution when shopping online or in stores.

Illinois’ seven-day firearm deer season will conclude Dec. 4-7.

Marquette Academy Elementary Campus has announced its honor roll students for the first quarter of the 2025-2026 school year.

Anyone seeking to receive benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program has to apply, regardless if they are currently receiving them, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture