Community
Virus milestones are ‘lonely’ and ‘isolated’
In an era of drive-by birthday parties and drive-thru visitations, it is clear the coronavirus pandemic has impacted virtually all areas of life. That includes milestones from funerals to weddings.…
Read MorePandemic can worsen mental health
For many people, the coronavirus pandemic has brought an untold amount of uncertainty and stress to their daily lives. This, in turn, can drastically impact individuals’ mental health, regardless of…
Read MoreWaterloo retiree is CASA volunteer
In her retirement, Waterloo resident Susan Martin strives for balance. She aims to balance contributing to her family, church and community. One way she does that last thing is by…
Read MoreDealing with domestic violence during a pandemic
The idea behind Illinois’ stay at home order is to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus by staying in a safe place. But for victims of domestic violence, their…
Read MoreMonroe County coronavirus cases rise to 47 after nursing home outbreak; now 5 deaths
A coronavirus outbreak at a senior living facility in Columbia has led to a steady rise in cases and four more deaths for Monroe County this week. Monroe County Health…
Read MoreFlooding concerns eased, for now
With last year’s extended flood season still fresh in many minds around Monroe County and extended repeated winter and early spring rainfalls across the region, many are fearing a repeat…
Read MoreAguiar reflects on ‘Biggest Loser’ experience
Despite snapping a bone in her leg because she was “being a little too competitive” during a challenge early in the season, Columbia’s Teri Aguiar made it to the penultimate…
Read MoreCounty board hosts first virtual meeting
The Monroe County Board conducted its first-ever “virtual meeting” Monday in the face of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Board chairman Bob Elmore met from his home, Commissioner Vicki Koerber and…
Read MoreMonroe County has 18 coronavirus cases; reports first death
Monroe County is now reporting 18 cases of coronavirus – including its first death – as the pandemic continues to change daily life for everyone. On Tuesday morning, Monroe County…
Read MoreFamilies help environment during pandemic
Several families in Monroe County have started doing what they can to help the environment during the coronavirus pandemic using what they call their “PE time.” These individuals take gloves…
Read MoreProgram provides food for kids
As area school districts are working to ensure children are fed during the week while schools are closed, a program based in Maeystown is doing the same for students on…
Read MoreLessons learned from the Spanish Flu
A little over a century ago, the world was facing a flu pandemic. Locally, the response was strikingly similar in nature to measures implemented recently to combat the spread of …
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