We see what we look for | Ott Observations
I recently attended a weekend retreat and a man at my discussion table was bemoaning the decline of manhood in our country. Out of empathy, I asked if someone…
Read MoreChoosing conversations | Mark’s Remarks
I really ought to be ashamed of myself. This time of year, I usually write about nice things – warm things, cozy things, spiritual things. Instead, here we are. Again.…
Read MoreBaby Jesus stolen again from Waterloo church
A Waterloo church is once again missing the “reason for the season” this Christmas. Immanuel Lutheran Church at 522 S. Church Street reported a baby Jesus figurine missing last year…
Read MoreShirley A. Trost | Obituary
Shirley A. Trost, 93, of Waterloo, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Dec. 27, 2025, at her home. She was born Nov. 24, 1932, in East St. Louis, to…
Read MoreHoliday hoops galore for locals
The annual Columbia-Freeburg Holiday Tournament opened late Saturday morning at Columbia High School, and the host squad looked to close it out Monday night with the top trophy. The Eagles…
Read MoreEagles win another tourney title
Fresh off a Candy Cane Classic title at Gibault just before Christmas, the Columbia High School girls basketball squad sought another shiny gift in the championship game of the Waterloo…
Read MoreSunday night crash in Waterloo
Emergency personnel responded about 8:10 p.m. Sunday to a two-vehicle crash with possible entrapment in the 300 block of Hoener Avenue in Waterloo. The Waterloo Fire Department assisted Monroe County…
Read MoreJoyce L. Heller | Obituary
Joyce L. Heller (nee Koch), 92, of Red Bud, died Dec. 27, 2025, in Freeburg. She was born March 21, 1933, in Fults. She was a member of Holy Cross…
Read MoreEarly morning crash near Valmeyer
Emergency personnel responded about 3 a.m. Friday to a vehicle crash on Route 156 at D Road just east of Valmeyer. The Valmeyer Fire Department was initially paged to an…
Read MoreA fresh look at healthy goals in the New Year | For Your Health
By Dr. Graham A. Colditz Siteman Cancer Center Heading into a new year, it feels like a great time to mix things up. So, after several years interviewing leaders in…
Read MoreMargie J. Mosbacher | Obituary
Margie J. Mosbacher (nee Qualls), 98, of Waterloo, died Dec. 24, 2025, in Waterloo. She was born July 20, 1927, in Du Quoin. She is survived by her son Terry…
Read MoreSharon S. Schneider | Obituary
Sharon Sue Schneider, 79, of Waterloo, died Dec. 23, 2025, in St. Louis. She was born November 12, 1946, in Red Bud, IL. She is survived by her brothers and…
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