Nashville Savings Bank provided $20,000 in funding to charitable and civic organizations throughout the community, courtesy of a grant received through its partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago. While the need for food pantries, summer lunch programs and other valuable services has increased amid the COVID-19 pandemic, organizational fundraising efforts have…

Updated 8-12-20 The National Weather Service issued a severe weather alert for the county as heavy rain and winds were spotted throughout Washington County and its surrounding areas on Monday, August 10. Hundreds of Ameren customers were without power  beginning at approximately 7 p.m. Electricity did not return for some customers until after midnight Tuesday.…

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker’s emergency rules to first warn, then fine businesses that do not adhere to a mandatory mask requirement for employees and customers was approved today by the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR). According to State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville), “Governor Pritzker must stop making his own laws and call the legislature…

Those looking to watch sports this fall will need to have a mask or other face covering on hand, according to officials. Craig Anderson, executive director of the IHSA, reportedly told schools on Tuesday, August 11, that all spectators will be required to wear face coverings at baseball, softball and cross-country contests. In the SIJHSAA…

The Washington County Health Department reported on Tuesday, August 11, that a new lab-confirmed case of COVID have been reported in Washington County. The case includes a female in her 50s with resolved symptoms who was a close contact of a confirmed case. The department also stated that 4 cases have been released from isolation…

Fouts Christian Church in Centralia held a Back-to-School giveaway at its church on Saturday, August 8. The event practiced social distancing, where those visiting were asked to wear a mask while they picked out their school supplies. Free haircuts and clothes giveaway was also part of the day. Left: Abby Kern, 9, and Ginger Kehrer…