High gas prices, big crowds drive traffic at Illinois Valley parks

Paperwork: I wish my young mind had listened a lot more closely to older minds

That moment when you start to believe in yourself is a turning point. I do think teachers, mentors and friends can be the game changers. They help us see who we are or are not. Sometimes better than we see ourselves.

Dani Zellmer-Bunzell remembered for her infectious smile

Former PC volleyball/track standout, Hall coach Dani Zellmer-Bunzell remembered for her infectious smile. Coach Demi Salazar says, "she was a good kid."

NewsTribune softball stat leaders for the 2026 season

A look at the final softball statistical leaders in the NewsTribune area for the 2026 season.

2026 NewsTribune Softball Player of the Year: Princeton’s Avah Oertel

Avah Oertel batted .607 with a school single-season record 17 homers, 59 RBIs, 19 doubles and 55 runs scored. The NewsTribune Softball Player of the Year is already Princeton’s career leader for home runs (35), RBIs (137) and doubles (35).

2026 NewsTribune Softball All-Area Team

A look at the top softball players in the NewsTribune area for the 2026 season.