Crews are moving materials in place on the site of a future Chipotle Mexican Grill on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 in Ottawa. The Ottawa City Council approved the project last June, and the construction has been ramping up this month. It is located on Etna Road next to Thorntons.

Fifteen shavees went bald for the 19th annual Illinois Valley Emergency Services Annual St. Baldrick's Event on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at Senica's Oak Ridge in La Salle. The St. Baldrick’s Foundation funds worldwide research to develop safer, more effective treatments for children with cancer.

The Masters Walley Circuit began its 2026 season on Friday, March 20, at the Spring Valley Boat Club. A total of 95 teams were registered for the tournament. The circuit has been running since 1984. Anglers from across the country compete for a chance at winning over $86,000 of cash and prizes. Weigh-ins begin at 3:30 p.m. at the Spring Valley Boat Club during the two-day tournament.

Hall and Streator on Thursday, March 19, 2026 in Streator. The game ended in a 9-9 tie.

Motorists traveling through the Illinois Valley will encounter several construction zones beginning Monday as the Illinois Department of Transportation launches three separate projects from Princeton to Ottawa, including major work at the Interstate 80 and Interstate 39 interchange.

Voters headed to the polls during the primary election on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 in the Illinois Valley.

Snow and wind caused nearly whiteout conditions across the Illinois Valley on Monday, March 16, 2026. The storm sharply reduced visibility, and dangerous travel conditions were reported across the region.

Marseilles‘ Tourism and Park Committee hosted its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Saturday, March 14. Parade participants lined up at the Marseilles Elementary School parking lot and marched along Broadway Street to Main Street, with participants dispersing at North Main Street.

Princeton defeated Ottawa 9-7 on Friday, March 13, 2026 at Ottawa High School.