The 98th Annual Illinois FFA State Convention concluded June 11 in Springfield after three days of leadership development, recognition ceremonies, competitions, and celebrations for members from across the state. Held at the Bank of Springfield Center, the 2026 convention carried the theme “Sparking Your Future,” drew more than 5,000 FFA members, students, advisors, alumni, and…

By Jacob Hamm ARCOLA— The Raggedy Ann festival was not the only noteworthy event in Arcola on Saturday. Immediately after the parade, the Arcola Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion hosted a flag retirement ceremony at the Arcola Community Center. According to Bob Dowler, commander of the American Legion, who previously served in…

By Jacob Hamm ARCOLA— Hundreds of people from across the area and the country gathered in Arcola for the 37th annual Raggedy Ann parade and festival. Mick Howrey, one of the key organizers for the event, said people traveled from as far as California this year to trade, sell, and buy dolls, and enjoy the…

By Jacob Hamm The summer months can bring lots of stress about energy costs as the temperatures climb. The Energy Assistance Foundation operates the “Warm Neighbors Cool Friends” program, which helps customers who do not meet the criteria for LIHEAP, pay their energy bills in the summer and winter months. Susan Sams, the Executive Director…

By Jacob Hamm ARCOLA— Illinois lawmakers passed HB4472 in the spring session, which establishes a “Blue Envelope Program” for drivers on the autism spectrum. The bill establishes the program through the Secretary of State’s office by partnering with the Autism Hero Project to develop the envelopes and distribute them to the public. The envelopes contain…

By David Porter ARCOLA — The Arcola School Board opened its meeting last Wednesday with a public hearing on the 2025-2026 amended budget before moving into regular business. Retiring Superintendent Dr. Tom Mulligan, in his last regular meeting, said the budget amendment was due largely to elementary curricula being purchased sooner than anticipated. He said…

By David Porter During Monday’s Arcola City Council meeting, Hannah Myers reported on a successful inaugural “sip and stroll” event that brought 125-150 people together. The next one is set for next Thursday with different food trucks and music. Erik Reader of Reader Area Development introduced himself and explained his work in helping communities reinvigorate…

By Jacob Hamm VILLA GROVE— The Villa Grove school district will be paying slightly more in insurance costs for the next school year and made some modifications to school district policies. The Board will be paying increased deductible costs, such as the property damage deductible being increased from $5,000 to $10,000. The deductible costs for…