Author Archive for Bill Knight

Claims that FEMA had decided not to grant the state any funding, is accurate but incomplete and misleading

As the income-tax deadline looms, taxpayers should connect widespread resentment at what many feel was an unresponsive Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with available resources resulting from choices made in Washington. Outrage also may be tempered by a more complete report of actual government response.

Primary vote March 18 has key proposition, few races

Area residents will have the opportunity to vote on a key school-funding proposition in Peoria County and candidates for various offices in the March 18 General Primary Election. Although the top of the ballot has several contested races, few county…

Important election dates

March 10 – Last day for any member of the U.S. Service, spouse and dependents to make application for an absentee ballot and the last day for the election authority to mail such ballot (not less than 10 days before…

One Small Step for a consumer; one giant leap for public schools

Reminiscent of Neil Armstrong, the opportunity is “one small step for a consumer; one giant leap for public schools.” The ballot reads: “Proposition for a 1% Sales Tax for School Facility Purposes – ‘Shall a retailer’s occupation tax and service…

The Beatles on ‘Ed Sullivan’ 50 years ago musically commemorated in Peoria Feb. 9

To some, five decades back seem like ancient history: “Biblical times.” Indeed, in the winter of 1964, social media meant face-to-face conversations or maybe passing notes in class. At home, there were three main TV networks, and weekends wound down…

Vatican questionnaire not distributed to area laity

In the New Testament, Jesus says, “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches,” and “Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.” Nevertheless, it’s unclear whether Pope Francis will be able to…

Peoria Has Major Mental Health Needs: Analysis

When Virginia State Sen. Creigh Deeds was injured by his 24-year-old son Gus on Nov. 19, the attack was preceded hours before by a mental-health evaluation of the younger Deeds, who was recommended for emergency custody, an order that could…

Mental illiness: The big picture

* 20% of American adults have some form of mental illness – 45.9 million people. * 20% of that number – 9.2 million people – have some form of substance dependence or abuse.* 20% of American adults have some form…