Local Spotlight

Pekin is preparing for its 196th Fourth of July Celebration, a two-day event organizers describe as the nation’s oldest consecutive Independence Day celebration. The 2026 event is scheduled for July 3 and 4 at Pekin Park with the time “Our American Story,” tying this year’s festivities to the nation’s 250th anniversary.

A fundraising effort has been launched to help the family of 17-year-old Hunter Blaine Rowley, who tragically passed away Saturday evening following an apparent shooting and vehicle crash in rural Washington County.

"The Spirit of Washington County Through the Lens of Cecil Smith" opened Saturday at the Depot Railroad Museum, located at 206 South College Avenue. The exhibit will remain open from June 13 through June 27 as part of the local celebration of America's 250th Birthday.

Mosier Family Chiropractic celebrated the grand opening of their new location on Mulberry Street Saturday afternoon! It was a wonderful community turnout, with refreshments and food provided by Hayes Lemonade and BBQ Paradise.