Virus claims 100th life

Monroe County reached a grim milestone last Thursday when it recorded its 100th death associated with the novel coronavirus.  Monroe County Health Department Administrator John Wagner reported two deaths last…

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Reflecting on a year of COVID

On March 16, 2020, Gov. JB Pritzker announced that all gatherings of 50 or more people must be canceled, closing schools and many businesses in the process.  That same day,…

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Vaccine volunteers selflessly serve

Even with the limited supply of COVID-19 vaccine that Monroe County is receiving, vaccine clinics that take place at the Monroe County Fairgrounds are a massive undertaking. Monroe County Health…

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Virus cases continue to slow

Monroe County recently crossed a milestone in cases, as there have now been 4,052 COVID-19 cases here since the pandemic began.  There was just one new case Monday, three new…

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COVID deaths rise to 85

Monroe County reported five more COVID-related deaths in recent days, putting the death toll at 85. On Tuesday, Monroe County Health Department Administrator John Wagner reported the death of a…

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Where’s your vaccine?

Although over 32.8 million Americans have received at least one shot of the COVID-19 vaccine, the rollout of this key pandemic-ending tool has been marked by confusion and frustration.  Individuals…

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Columbia in-person school debate

The Columbia School Board unanimously voted Thursday night to increase the option for in-person attendance to the highest level since the pandemic began.  Starting Feb. 16, all students in fifth…

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