COMMUNITY

Jun 06 2026BUSINESS

A BBQ truck burns down in Kankakee—here’s how the town is stepping up

A food trailer in downtown Kankakee went up in flames one afternoon, leaving behind a charred shell and a gap in the community. Firefighters arrived quickly and put out the fire before it could spread, but the trailer—used by Brother George’s BBQ—was left badly damaged. The pickup truck attached to

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Jun 06 2026EDUCATION

A Fresh Face Takes Over Bay County’s History Hub

The Bay County Historical Museum has a new leader stepping into the role this summer. Kyle Proctor starts as executive director on June 1, bringing over two decades of experience in running organizations and shaping their direction. His background includes high-level jobs in corporate communications

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Jun 05 2026LIFESTYLE

A Life Full of Family, Fishing and Football

Arthur J. Miller, known as Butch to those close to him, died on Monday, June 1, 2026 at the age of eighty‑eight. He lived in Ashford and was surrounded by his loved ones during his final moments, a fitting reflection of the devotion he showed to family throughout his life. Born on November 3, 193

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Jun 05 2026OPINION

Children’s Playground Turns Tragic: A Call for Peace

A shooting happened at a Baltimore school playground, where an 11‑year‑old boy was badly hurt. The attack also injured a 26‑year‑old man who may have been the intended target. Both were taken to the hospital and are now stable. The incident shocked many because it occurred while kids were playing.

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Jun 05 2026LIFESTYLE

Soccer, School, and a Syracuse Neighborhood's Comeback Story

Syracuse’s North Side has always been a patchwork of arrivals—Irish and Germans in the 1800s, Italians in the early 1900s, Bosnians in the ’90s, and more recently, Congolese, Somalis, and Burmese families. Each wave faced skepticism, but the city’s investment in refugee resettlement wasn’t just abou

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Jun 05 2026EDUCATION

A teacher’s hands-on lessons left a lasting mark on students

Teaching isn’t just about test scores—that’s one thing a retired educator proved over two decades in the classroom. Instead of sitting through lectures, her students got to dig in the dirt, track birds, and run science experiments. She believed classrooms should feel alive, not like quiet boxes wher

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Jun 05 2026POLITICS

A Busy Worksite Meets Neighbor Complaints in Homer Township

A plan to bring a big trucking and excavation company to Homer Township hit a snag when local leaders and residents pushed back. Badger Daylighting wants to build an office and park around 30 trucks on 38 acres near 159th Street. The company uses high-pressure water to dig safely around buried pipes

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Jun 04 2026ENTERTAINMENT

June Celebrations: A Quick Look at Pride

In recent years, bold voices have opened doors for many people to share who they truly are. Their courage has made it easier for others to live openly and honestly. Every June, people around the world remember those pioneers. Pride Month turns streets into vibrant festivals. Parades, block parties

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Jun 04 2026ART

Art as a Path to Healing and Hope

A resident of Lanexa, an artist named Patty Putnam is stepping forward in a national art contest that could change her future. She has faced many health problems after losing her job as a visual director at Saks Fifth Avenue. Eight chronic illnesses made it hard for her to keep moving and working

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Jun 04 2026EDUCATION

Future Homes, New Uses for Cleveland’s Old Schools

Cleveland’s old school buildings are getting a new look. The city is inviting developers to turn the empty campuses into homes, shops or community hubs. Last month, 12 schools across eight neighborhoods closed their doors for the last time. Neighborhood leaders say these sites hold a lot of

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