Columns

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.…

Reflections from the Clergy

From sundown on Saturday, July 25 until the evening of July 26 Jews around the world observe our national day of mourning, Tisha B’av. This day commemorates the destructions of both the first and second Jewish commonwealths (in 586 BCE…

Water, Water, Everywhere (here anyway)

Seven weeks and counting. Who would have thought that the Illinois River would be above flood stage for so long in June and July? Normally, I make a weekly stop at a few of the birding hotspots to keep track…

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.…

Arts Beat

Stage highlights for the next few weeks: MUSIC July 31: Nathan Taylor and Friends. 8 p.m. Rhythm Kitchen Music Café. 676-9668. Aug. 1: Blues Expression. 8 p.m. Rhythm Kitchen Music Café. 676-9668. Aug. 2: Peoria Municipal Band, with percussion soloist…

Placemaking Peoria

Artists are creators. They are always making things, dreaming new ideas, and looking at the world differently. The works of visual artists stand out when displayed on a wall or as sculpture in galleries, museums or First Friday venues. Performance…

Labor Roundup

UAW targeting automakers’ two-tier wages. Abolition of the two-tier wage system at the “Detroit 3” car companies, raising all workers to the top scale, seems to be the top bargaining goal of the United Auto Workers in opening talks with…