COMMUNITY

Jan 14 2026EDUCATION

Building a Future in Farming: IVCC's New Ag Center

In Oglesby, something exciting is growing on the Illinois Valley Community College campus. It's not a crop, but a new building. This is the Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center. It's a big deal because it's going to help students learn about farming and agriculture in a modern way.

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Jan 13 2026TECHNOLOGY

How Tech Giants Are Trying to Ease the Burden of AI Data Centers on Local Communities

Big Tech is pouring massive amounts of money into building data centers to support AI systems. These centers demand a lot of electricity, which has led to higher energy bills and environmental worries in nearby areas. In some places, electricity costs have skyrocketed by up to 267% over the past fiv

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Jan 13 2026LIFESTYLE

Retirement Haven on a Budget: Baytown, Texas

Retirement dreams often include warm weather and coastal views, but the high costs in popular spots are pushing people to explore other options. Baytown, Texas, is stepping into the spotlight as a practical choice for retirees. Nestled near Galveston Bay, it offers a mix of affordability and coastal

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Jan 13 2026CRIME

St. Louis Takes Steps to Reduce Crime

St. Louis is seeing a change in its crime rates. This is thanks to new efforts like "Save Lives Now! " and other initiatives. City leaders and businesses are starting to notice the difference. Crime has been a big problem in St. Louis for a long time. But now, things are looking up. The city has be

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Jan 13 2026EDUCATION

Teens Get the Facts: Library and Health Group Team Up for Sex Ed

In Trenton, a unique partnership is making a difference in teen health education. The Trenton Public Library and Planned Parenthood of Northern, Central, and Southern New Jersey have joined forces to bring sex education to local teens. This isn't just any old talk. It's a program called "Spill the T

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Jan 13 2026RELIGION

How Faith and Community Helped Asheville Bounce Back

Western North Carolina faced a huge challenge when Hurricane Helene hit on September 27, 2024. The storm caused serious damage, leaving many people without homes. Over 160 Veterans at the Veterans Restoration Quarters, run by Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM), were among those

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Jan 12 2026LIFESTYLE

Rolling Goodbyes: Virginia Beach Says Farewell to a Skating Legacy

The Haygood Skating Center, a beloved spot in Virginia Beach, has rolled its last wheel after 52 years. The rink, a staple for generations, closed its doors following a final skate night. For many, this isn't just about losing a place to skate; it's about losing a piece of their history. Brandon St

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Jan 12 2026EDUCATION

Teen Leaders of Tomorrow: A Journey of Growth and Achievement

In a world where only a handful of Fortune 500 companies are led by Black CEOs, a unique program is stepping in to bridge the gap. The Leadership Inside-Out program is not just another class; it's an eight-week journey that helps high school freshmen and sophomores navigate the path to success. At W

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Jan 12 2026OPINION

Standing Up for Immigrants and Our Planet

People in Portland are fighting for immigrants and climate justice. They gather outside the jail to support those inside. They sing and pray, showing their faith and love. A woman holds a picture of Our Lady of Guadalupe, who cries for her suffering children. Kids in Portland marched to City Hall.

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Jan 12 2026CRIME

Catonsville and Rosedale Businesses Targeted in Overnight Break-Ins

Early Sunday morning, a series of break-ins shook the Catonsville area, leaving business owners and locals concerned. Police were called to the 700 block of Frederick Road around 5:40 a. m. after an alarm went off at a local business. While they were there, more reports of break-ins started coming i

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