Columns

ARTS BEAT

Stage highlights for the next few weeks: MUSIC Sept. 4-5: Budweiser Illinois Blues Festival featuring Jonny Lang, Taj Mahal, Robert Randolph & The Family Band, Victor Wooten and the Rev. Peyton’s Big Damn Band and more. Gates open at 6…

Art As Experience Is there sound if there are no ears to hear it? Is there art if there are no eyes to see it? Art does not exist apart from human experience. It is not created in a vacuum.…

Labor Roundup

Labor groups endorse Iran deal. U.S. Labor Against War (USLAW), the grass-roots organization that led the organized labor to oppose George W. Bush’s 2003 invasion of Iraq, is campaigning for unionists and leaders to back the proposed agreement to curb…

Why Are So Many People Obese? There is an obesity epidemic in this country. The percent of people who are overweight and obese has doubled since 1992. Now one-third of adults in the United States are obese. What has happened…

Senator Ryan Spain?

Odds are State Sen. Darin LaHood will be elected to replace Aaron Shock as the 18th District U.S. Representative come September. The heavy Republican district strongly supports LaHood who carries impressive credentials and knows how to wage a political campaign.…

Serendipity

  Friendships form in various ways, characterized by respect, affection and loyalty. Longevity isn’t promised but should be celebrated if it happens. Which is how it is with my dear friend, Marie (Joseph) Unes. We attended the same high school,…

West Peoria News

  It was a perfect Independence Day for the 45th Annual West Peoria Fourth of July Parade. Neighbors, friends and visitors gathered on the sidewalks making a mosaic of red, white and blue while waiting to enjoy the longest running…

“Lights, camera, action!” is how many think of a film director, but put yourself in Aaron Warr’s place and that image might change. His film, “College Debts,” will have its world premiere right here in River City 7 p.m. Aug.…