Columns

Arts Beat | December 2018

Jazz

MUSIC Dec. 1: The Way Down Wanderers present “Wandering Home for The Holidays,” with Amoramora and Still Shine. 8 p.m. Monarch Music Hall. 966-0826. Dec. 1: Kenny G. 8 p.m. Peoria Civic Center Theater. 673-3200. Dec. 1: Bradley String Chamber…

Serendipity | Smiles and tears during the holidays

Sentimentality isn’t necessarily a component of holiday plans. Perhaps my current bout with heightened emotions has something to do with my age. Since turning 70 some seven months ago, I’ve chalked up nearly every unusual response as an age related…

West Peoria News | Holiday season is underway

A greeting from the West Peoria Beautification committee: “Garland and lights have been hung on the Welcome Wall, Township and City Hall with care knowing that the holiday season would soon be here. Snowmen are keeping a watchful look out…

Views & Perspectives | So Many Topics to Write About

If you are reading this column on or before Nov. 6, please vote. Election Day is Nov. 6. This Election Day offers an opportunity to chose a Governor of Illinois. Incumbent Gov. Bruce Rauner is being challenged by Chicagoan J.B.…

Straight Talk | Conflict of interest claims are shameful

“Never underestimate desperate people. You never know how far they will go to get what they want.” — Anonymous Does that quote apply to the CEO Council? After learning of the personal attacks on Mayor Jim Ardis and councilwoman Denise…

Bill Knight | Midwest artist offers eclectic sampling of “Americana”

The label “Americana” means music that blends folk, gospel, country, R&B and gospel, but it’s no uniform, sound-a-like genre. Artists carve out distinctive sounds mixing acoustic and electric, creating an eclectic delight. Edward David Anderson’s record released in October is…

Reflections From The Clergy | More than equal rights

As a society, we have been embroiled in a battle over equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community for years now. We have fought for legal recognition of marriage and gender status, healthcare coverage and equal services and simple non-discrimination protections.…

Nature Rambles | A new invasive species

Nature Rambles

It’s not everyday that I get stumped when I’m out in nature, but every once in a while, I see something that I have no idea what it is. A few weeks ago, Peoria Park District staff and volunteers were…

Inland Art | A poet’s eye

Inland Art

Before Bill Conger became curator of exhibitions and collections at the Peoria Riverfront Museum, his critical capability was honed at the University Galleries at Illinois State University. He worked with Barry Blinderman for more than a decade, a highly productive…

Real Talk | We need a culture change

I could use this space bemoaning why I vehemently oppose Brett Kavanaugh’s confirmation to the Supreme court. It is clear to most of us that he got the benefit of the doubt simply because he is a white man. Being…