Category Archives: Local News
Police Beat for Wednesday, February 25th, 2026
Centralia Police have arrested an 80-year-old Carlyle man on weapons charges. Malcolm McGregor of Hickory Street was taken to the Marion County Jail by Centralia Police for alleged possession of a sto...
Feb 25, 2026
As Illinois increasingly becomes destination for abortion access, a new public-private partnership emerges
by Nikoel Hytrek and UIS Public Affairs Reporting (PAR), Capitol News Illinois February 23, 2026 Article Summary Since 2022, Illinois has seen more travelers seeking abortions from out of state than a...
Feb 24, 2026 Megan Jeyifo, executive director of Chicago Abortion Fund, speaks at a news conference announcing the Prairie State Access Fund in January. (Submitted photo taken by Alicia Hurtado, Chicago Abortion Fund)
Salem High School Board Agrees to Summer Improvements to BE Gum Gymnasium
The Salem Community High School Board Monday night agreed to replace all the lower-level bleachers in BE Gum Gymnasium this summer. Superintendent Dr. Brad Detering says Carroll Seating will complete ...
Feb 24, 2026
Centralia approves new CBA with firefighter union
The Centralia City Council passed a resolution to accept a new collective bargaining agreement with the International Association of Firefighters Local Union #618 representing Centralia firefighters. ...
Feb 24, 2026 Mayor Bryan Kuder presented members of Centralia Business and Professional Women with the Equal Pay Day proclamation at Monday night's city council meeting. Photo by Austin Williams.
Salem Councilman Suggests Closing Animal Control Facility as Budget Saving Move
Salem City Councilman Gerald Molenhour has suggested the city look at turning animal control over to the county as a way to cut the city's budget deficit. Molenhour says under state law Marion County ...
Feb 24, 2026
City of Salem Looking at Budget Deficit Next Fiscal Year
The City of Salem is looking at a $282,000 deficit in the general fund next year after making more than $300,000 in cuts. City Manager Lisa Peck told the city council during a Monday night budget work...
Feb 24, 2026
Kaskaskia College to Keep Same Tuition and Fees for Next Academic Year
By Steven Stilt The Kaskaskia College Board of Trustees approved a resolution at Monday night's meeting to keep tuition and fee rates the same for the next academic year. Under the terms of the resolu...
Feb 24, 2026
Two Bonnie Residents Lose All Possessions at Their Home in Monday Night Fire
Fire destroyed a Bonnie home Monday night. Jefferson Fire reported fire was on the back porch and rear corner of the home at 450 West Camp Ground Road when they arrived. The fire eventually spread thr...
Feb 24, 2026
Marion County Soil and Water Conservation District Hands Out Annual Awards
The Marion County Soil and Water Conservation District honored a number in the farming community for their promotion of conservation practices at the 81st Annual Meeting held last week. The Conservati...
Feb 23, 2026 The Erin Donoho family receives the conservation district's Marion County Farm Family Award. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Mt. Vernon Outland Airport Selected as Terminus for 2026 Air Race Classic
Mt. Vernon Outland Airport (KMVN) has been selected as the Terminus host site for the 2026 Air Race Classic, marking a major milestone for both the airport and the community. The nationally recognized...
Feb 23, 2026
