Columns

Art and Justice | Ryan Rashad Reed

Ryan Rashad Reed

Peoria artist Ryan Rashad Reed uses his art to convey justice, beauty, triumph and struggle. Many people consider Reed, 40, to be one of Peoria’s most accomplished young artists. He is quick to say he strides for mastery but hasn’t…

Arts Beat | February 2020

Feb. 6: Nick Sizemore. 9 p.m. Tartan Inn. 966-2444. Feb. 6: “Winter Jam 2020,” featuring Christian recording artists crowder, Hillsong Young & Free, Andy Mineo, Building 429, Red, and more. 7 p.m. Civic Center Arena. 673-3200. Feb. 7-8: New Cats…

Where They Stand | Trump Administration policies regarding Israel and Palestine

The U.S. House of Representatives sent a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo dated Nov. 21, 2019 objecting to the Trump Administration’s decision declaring Israeli settlements on the West Bank are legal and permanent. The Trump administration decision is…

West Peoria News | Meet a K9 deputy

Peoria County Sheriff’s Deputy JR Kester will bring Quincy, his K9 partner, to the Neighborhood Watch meeting at 6 p.m. Feb. 12 at City Hall. Deputy Kester will speak about experiences with a canine partner. The West Peoria Book Club…

Serendipity | Mom memories

Something about winter makes me exceedingly sentimental and rather emotionally fragile. It begins around Thanksgiving, escalates through February then starts tapering off, especially if March’s weather is sunny. During those contemplative times, I love going through treasured papers and keepsakes,…

Straight Talk | Goodbye, Louie!

Another year has come and gone. Unfortunately, end of the year means the end of Sterling Family Restaurant. Owner Louie Trilikas announced he was going out of business effective Dec. 30, after more than 30 years serving breakfast, lunch and…

Bill Knight | The late Bob Liter

If still waters run deep, the late Bob Liter’s quiet, pensive demeanor smoking a pipe while editing news stories for the Peoria Journal Star for decades hid a mind roaring with adventure, violence, fun and sex. Liter, who lived in…

Nature Rambles | The return of the Pileated Woodpecker

Pileated Woodpecker

As 2019 draws to a close, folks who are birdwatchers tend to avoid cabin fever by getting out and conducting the annual Christmas Bird Counts. This year marks the 120th year of National Audubon’s CBC. As I was preparing information…