Vocalist Alison Kautz Ayala to perform July 12 with Princeton Community Band

NewsTribune Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year: Mendota’s Mariyah Elam

Mendota junior Mariyah Elam is the 2026 NewsTribune Girls Track and Field Athlete of the Year after winning her second career Class 2A high jump state title while also placing second in the triple jump.

Vocalist Alison Kautz Ayala to perform July 12 with Princeton Community Band

The Princeton Community Band will perform a free concert featuring vocal soloist Alison Kautz Ayala at 6 p.m. Sunday, July 12, at Soldiers and Sailors Park, 14 Park Ave. E, Princeton.

U of I Extension to hold insect collection program Aug. 8 in Ottawa

The University of Illinois Extension will hold an Insects Up Close: Collecting, Pinning, and Preservation program for residents from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 8, at Nell’s Woodland, 2000 Alexis Ave., Ottawa.

2026 NewsTribune Girls Track & Field All-Area Team

A look at the top girls track and field athletes in the NewsTribune area for the 2026 season.

Marshall-Putnam 4-H foundation’s annual silent auction begins July 21

The Marshall-Putnam 4-H and Extension Foundation will hold its annual silent auction for community members to celebrate its 40th anniversary from Tuesday, July 21, through Thursday, July 23, at the Marshall-Putnam 4-H Show.