Emergency crews responded to Coogee Chemical Facility for a magnesium industrial fire on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 in Ottawa. Two victims with burns were transported to OSF St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Ottawa. One of those victims is in critical condition.

Morris defeated Ottawa 6-3 on Monday. April 20, 2026 at Ottawa High School.

The iconic spring-flowering bluebell is back at Starved Rock State Park. These beautiful blooms can be spotted along the trailhead to Illinois Canyon on the far east end of the park. Native to Illinois, bluebells are an important pollinator, attracting bees and other insects each spring. Peak bloom is expected over the next 2–3 weeks, making now the perfect time to get out and see them.

The Ottawa softball team traveled to Sycamore Friday to take on the Spartans in Interstate 8 Conference action.

Serena/Newark/Earlville played Streator on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at the James Street Recreation Complex in Streator.

L-P defeated Ottawa 3-1 on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at Ottawa High School.

Ottawa defeated L-P 6-0 on Monday, April 13, 2026 on King Field at Ottawa High School.

An aerial view of the Dr. Alfred E. Wisgoski Agricultural Education Center on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby. Crews have begun construction on the exterior walls. The new facility is expected to redefine IVCC’s agriculture program, equipping the college to train and upskill agricultural workers, support the development of new technologies and promote sustainable practices. Approximately $1.6 million has been pledged toward the agricultural center, and IVCC plans to launch a community donation program later this spring. The 10,250-square-foot building is slated for occupancy in 2027. The project is supported by a $3.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Economic Development Administration, a $240,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and a $1 million gift from the Wisgoski family.

“The Play That Goes Wrong” will be presented April 17-19 and 24-26 at Stage 212, 700 First St., LaSalle. Friday evening performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday matinee performances begin at 2 p.m.