Illinois Today

By the People, for the People

Human Interest

Recent news

Kellie Jean Morrison, 73, Passes Away

Longtime Houston resident and Prophetstown native died on February 15, 2026.

South Side church relaunches services after Thanksgiving fire collapse

Renewal Life Church congregation celebrates new home after devastating blaze destroyed previous building

Boat Crew Rescues Man Who Fell Into Chicago River

Passengers on an architecture tour helped save the unresponsive man's life.

Centralia Man Dennis Claxton Passes Away at 67

Longtime factory worker and community member is remembered for his love of family, fishing, and gardening.

Community news: SEASPAR lauds volunteers, staff, participants and donors

Annual recognition banquet celebrates those who enrich lives of people with disabilities through recreation

Embracing Whimsy: One Woman's Journey to Finding Joy in the Everyday

Samantha Pettyjohn shares how she incorporated more whimsy into her life to combat the winter blues and grief

Evergreen Park Celebrates 50 Years of Rainbow Grocery Cooperative

Local natural foods store marks milestone anniversary with community celebration

Don E. Hoff, Longtime Galesburg Resident, Dies at 58

Hoff worked at Maytag and the Railroad before his passing on February 9, 2026.

Douglas MacArthur 'Mac' Plummer, Longtime Galesburg Resident, Dies at 83

Plummer, a retired railroad worker and barber, was an active member of the community and known for his love of the outdoors.

Bonny Sue McNaught, Longtime Galesburg Resident, Passes Away at 83

McNaught was known for her love of crafting, gardening, and spending time with family.

G. William 'Bill' Schaller, Longtime Fenton Resident, Dies at 87

Schaller was a dedicated community member and emergency responder who spent over 60 years with his wife Judy before her passing.

Man Rescued from Chicago River After Bridge Fall

Tour boat crew pulls unresponsive man from water, passengers perform CPR until he regains consciousness.

Maryland Zoo Lets You Name Poop After Your Ex

The 'Dollars for Dung' fundraiser allows people to name an imaginary pile of poop after someone they'd like to tell off.

Downtown Springfield Celebrates with 'My Heart's Downtown' Event

Family-friendly activities aim to bring people back to the city's downtown area.

Longtime Effingham Resident Ronald Ray Ashbaugh Passes Away at 84

Ashbaugh, a carpenter and avid St. Louis Cardinals fan, is remembered for his service, woodworking, and love of turkey hunting.

Waterloo Resident William Heizer, Accomplished Musician, Passes Away at 76

Heizer, a U.S. Army veteran, was known for his musical talents and service to the community.

Chicago Comedy Show Aims to Make Streets Safer

Creators of 'Safe Streets: The Comedy Show' discuss their goal of using humor to spark change.

Josephine Louis, British-themed gift store owner and Northwestern benefactor, dies at 95

The longtime Winnetka resident and U.S. ambassador's wife discovered and led Eximious, a specialty gift catalog and retail store, for 25 years.

Crystal Angel, 53, Passes Away in Jerseyville

Beloved mother and restaurant worker remembered for her selflessness and vibrant life.

Longtime Kinmundy Resident Jo Garrett Dies at 90

Jo Garrett, a dairy farmer's wife and devoted community member, is remembered for her big heart and lifelong service.