COMMUNITY

May 15 2026EDUCATION

Easy ways kids learn about local nature

Fourth-graders in one town now have special books and activities to explore the nature around them. A local group bought these new science books using money from a foundation. The books highlight plants and animals found right in the students’ neighborhoods. The project started when a child on a fi

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May 15 2026BUSINESS

Pest Control in Elgin: A Reliable Family Business Grows Beyond Expectations

Over six decades ago, a small pest control company began operating in Elgin, South Carolina. Starting with just two clients in 1955, it grew under the leadership of its founders, George and Catherine Matthews. Decades later, their business expanded into a well-known service provider in the region.

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May 15 2026LIFESTYLE

Nutley’s MEAL restaurant ends 15-year run with a final celebration

After fifteen years serving Nutley, New Jersey, a local spot known for food, drinks, and music is shutting down. The restaurant, which opened in its current form over a decade ago, quietly confirmed its last night would be May 16. Instead of fading quietly, it’s throwing a big party to say thanks.

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May 14 2026LIFESTYLE

Remembering Illinois Heroes in Yorkville

A new tribute will open its doors to the public on May 18th in Yorkville’s Kendall County Office Building. The exhibit, called the Illinois Fallen Wall, showcases photographs of every soldier from the state who lost their lives in combat since September 11th. The display will stay on the first‑floor

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May 14 2026LIFESTYLE

Small daily choices that quietly shape community life

People often picture giving as large donations or dramatic sacrifices, but the real foundation of connection happens in everyday moments. A quick smile to a stranger, a follow-up call to a cousin who seems down, or choosing the neighborhood café over the distant chain store—these small decisions mig

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May 14 2026BUSINESS

Dutch Bros makes its first Chicago stop in Melrose Park

A coffee chain famous for its high-energy crews and custom drinks is opening its first Illinois location outside the college towns it usually targets. Dutch Bros picked Melrose Park, a mostly residential suburb west of the city, to launch its Chicago-area push. More shops are planned for Oak Park an

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May 13 2026BUSINESS

Plans for a vacant site: balancing progress and concerns

Churchill’s empty Westinghouse site has been a blank canvas for decades, ever since the tech company downsized there in the late '90s. Now, plans are in motion to turn the 150-acre property into a busy hub of homes, shops, and services. Developers want to add everything from daycare centers to gas s

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May 13 2026BUSINESS

Why Roller Rabbit Got Away with Staying in Nantucket

Nantucket has a rule to protect its small-town charm: no big chain stores. But Roller Rabbit, a trendy sleepwear brand, found a loophole. Instead of closing up, it rebranded as a "general store, " selling other brands alongside its own. Now, locals are frustrated because this seems like a sneaky way

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May 13 2026EDUCATION

A New Tech Hub is Coming to This School District

A local school district in Michigan just got a big boost to build a cutting-edge STEM center. The Essexville-Hampton Public Schools scored a $1 million state grant in mid-2024 to start construction on a new facility focused on science, tech, engineering, and math. The money will cover the basics fir

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May 12 2026BUSINESS

When water vanishes: How a break left a town high and dry

Downtown Lake Orion turned eerily quiet after a big pipe cracked early Sunday morning. On Monday, most shops stayed shut while crews worked to fix the damage. The loss of water hit restaurants hardest, especially since Sunday was Mother’s Day—a day usually packed with families dining out. One local

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