The first “Vision to Venture” business bootcamp recently concluded after five weeks of hands-on learning, collaboration, and business development opportunities for aspiring and current business owners. Sponsored by the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC), 12 participants took part in the program, which met once a week for four weeks before concluding with a pitch…

By Jacob Hamm The Villa Grove School Board approved their annual budget and various technology upgrades at Monday night’s meeting. The budget will be balanced, according to Superintendent Dr. Carol Munson. While the school budget had an approximately $2 million surplus for the 2025-26 fiscal year, the transportation portion of the budget had a $17,000…

The Arcola Community Unit District #306 Board of Education met in regular session Tuesday, May 13, at 7 p.m. in the High School Library, with Board President L. Shonkwiler presiding. Prior to the meeting, the Board heard a presentation from the new student leadership group as reported on last week. Prior to the regular meeting,…

By David Porter The Arcola City Council approved hiring Mark Miller of Miller and Hendren as city attorney without discussion. Hendren succeeds Andy Petty in the role. Alderman Brent Budd abstained from the vote, which was otherwise unanimous. “Andy was a good attorney for the city,” said Bill Wagoner, city administrator. “I appreciate his service…

By Jacob Hamm TUSCOLA, Ill.- 19-year-old Tahjae Nickerson of Urbana will serve a 17-year prison sentence for the attempted murder of Amanda Lamkin and Mathew Wilkins in November 2025. Nickerson, who had a relationship with 16-year-old Katlynn Lamkin, attempted to murder Lamkin and Wilkins with two kitchen knives on November 29, 2025, both of which…