Many people know Dick Van Scyoc, the coach: 826 career victories in a 45-year career that culminated with the 1994 Class AA state championship to cap 28 basketball seasons at Manual. But when I think about Coach Van, the…
In news, it’s said, “if it bleeds, it leads.” That means the hemorrhaging of daily newspaper circulation should be uppermost in people’s minds — to stay informed, if not remain in a democratic society. The U.S. daily newspaper circulation is…
The general election this fall is November 8, 2022. October 10 is the last day to register to vote or change your address. West Peoria residents can register at City Hall during regular working hours. Voting locations in West Peoria…
Three beloved teachers have been recently acknowledged in central Illinois. Two Illinois State University professors, Harold Boyd and Harold Gregor, in Bloomington-Normal; and in Peoria, Bradley’s Ken Hoffman. Although each of these artists are long retired, their influence is…
High voltage DC line could transport megawatts of wind energy to Midwest, if Exelon would allow it My last two columns dwelt on Illinois’ electricity shortage and barriers to fixing the problem. One barrier is Springfield’s lethargy. The state could…
I’m sure we all have experienced something that takes us back to our childhood: The aroma of a favorite food, the sound of a familiar place, or the sight of a local landmark. I guess when we…
Financial situations were not something openly talked about when I was growing up. If they were, I didn’t hear them. We knew basics, but we also understood money conversations were private. It never occurred to me to worry about things…
Descending into woods, a sign says “No bikes, No dogs.” Good. Leave that behind. The first fallen tree, two big trunks. This one fell last year sometime, not so long ago. Continuing, another tree with a young couple’s initials. I…
Farewell to elections expert Tom Bride, who should get a patience award for months of listening to misinformed citizens gripe about voter fraud. Peoria City Council On June 28, Mayor Rita Ali presented an overview of Safety Network’s efforts to…
I made a trip to the Mississippi Delta last month. During the seven-hour drive, I had the opportunity to listen to the story of Anthony Ray Hinton on the radio. Anthony Ray Hinton was a Black man falsely accused of…
