In a solemn gesture of remembrance and unity, Governor JB Pritzker has ordered all flags across Illinois to be flown at half-staff from sunrise on Friday, September 12, 2025, through sunset on Sunday, September 14, 2025. The directive, issued through the Department of Central Management Services, calls on all persons and entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Act to lower both United States and State flags in honor of victims of political violence.

This statewide observance comes amid a troubling wave of politically motivated attacks and timely remembrances that have shaken communities across the nation. Just days ago, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated while speaking at Utah Valley University. Earlier this summer, Minnesota mourned the killing of Democratic State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, in a targeted shooting, while State Senator John Hoffman and his wife were also wounded in a related attack. In Pennsylvania, Governor Josh Shapiro’s residence was firebombed while he and his family slept inside. Two Israeli embassy staffers were murdered outside a Jewish museum event in Washington, D.C., in what federal prosecutors have charged as a hate crime. Tesla charging stations have been set ablaze in multiple states, and a campaign office for Democratic nominee Kamala Harris in Arizona was struck by gunfire—twice in one week.

And, needless to say, the nation continues to grapple with the gravity of two assassination attempts against President Donald Trump during his 2024 campaign—one at a rally in Pennsylvania, where he was grazed by a bullet, and another at his Florida golf course, where a rifle-wielding suspect was apprehended before he could act.

The timing of this flag-lowering order also coincides with the annual remembrance of the September 11 attacks, the deadliest act of political violence in U.S. history. As communities across Illinois and the country reflect on the nearly 3,000 lives lost that day, the symbolism of lowered flags carries added weight—a call for unity, vigilance, and peace.

In Delavan, flags at city buildings, schools, and local businesses joined the statewide tribute. Residents paused to reflect on the meaning behind the gesture, many expressing quiet solidarity with those affected by violence and reaffirming their commitment to civil discourse and democratic values.

As the flags return to full staff at sunset on Sunday, the message remains: Illinois stands united in remembrance—and resolute in its rejection of violence as a means of political expression.

At last week’s city council meeting, Alderman Douglas Bury reignited a conversation that’s been simmering for years: should Delavan transition from individually contracted garbage pickup to a unified, city-wide system? His suggestion to revisit this idea comes at a pivotal moment, as the landscape of local waste management shifts dramatically.

Earlier this month, X-Waste Disposal of Pekin—the last locally owned garbage service operating in Delavan—was officially acquired by GFL Environmental. With this acquisition, all residential waste services in town are now controlled by large, publicly traded corporations. For many homeowners, this means fewer choices and rising costs, as competition dwindles and personalized service gives way to corporate standardization.

Fewer Trucks, Stronger Streets

One of the most compelling benefits of a city-wide system is the reduction in heavy truck traffic. Currently, multiple haulers crisscross Delavan’s neighborhoods each week, often duplicating routes and increasing wear and tear on residential roads. These trucks—some weighing over 30,000 pounds—don’t just leave potholes behind. They also strain the aging water and sewer infrastructure beneath our streets, accelerating the need for costly repairs.

A centralized pickup system would streamline routes, reduce the number of trucks, and help preserve both pavement and underground utilities. Over time, this could mean fewer road closures, lower maintenance costs, and a longer lifespan for critical infrastructure.

Cost Efficiency and Predictability

Bulk municipal contracts often yield better rates than individual agreements. By negotiating as a city, Delavan could secure consistent pricing and service for all residents—especially important now that local competition has evaporated. A city-wide system could also simplify billing and customer service.

Under the proposed model, residents would no longer receive separate invoices from private haulers. Instead, garbage pickup fees would be bundled into their existing water and sewer bills, creating a single, predictable monthly statement. This integration could reduce administrative overhead and make budgeting easier for households.

Still, the transition wouldn’t be free. The city would need to invest in planning and oversight. And if the service is outsourced, contracts must be carefully crafted to avoid future rate hikes or service gaps.

Cleaner, Greener, Healthier

Uniform pickup schedules make it easier to implement recycling and composting programs. With consistent education and enforcement, Delavan could reduce landfill waste and improve sanitation. Fewer missed pickups and cleaner streets also mean fewer pests and less risk of disease—especially during warmer months when waste can quickly become a public health concern.

Trade-Offs and Transparency

Some residents may resist the change, preferring the freedom to choose their own provider or maintain relationships with familiar crews. Others may worry about losing the responsiveness that came with locally owned services. Transparency will be key: residents deserve a voice in how the system is designed, who provides the service, and how success is measured.

 A Community-Wide Conversation

Alderman Bury’s suggestion invites Delavan to rethink how we care for our shared spaces. A city-wide garbage pickup system could mean cleaner streets, stronger infrastructure, and more affordable service. But it also requires thoughtful planning, community input, and a commitment to long-term sustainability.

As our town adjusts to the post-X-Waste era, this is more than a logistical decision—it’s a chance to shape the future of Delavan’s neighborhoods, one truck at a time.

Delavan High School is revving up for this year’s annual Carnival on September 26, an event designed to bring together students, teachers, and the community for an evening of fun, food, and entertainment. This year’s theme, “Small Town, Big Memories,” highlights Delavan’s extensive history, with each class embracing a different decade through themed food booths and performances. With preparations underway, students work tirelessly to prepare nostalgic memories for their community to enjoy. 

Carnival is a unique and cherished experience for the people at Delavan. Each year, the high school is lit with commotion and liveliness as students take charge of food booths, auctions and classic carnival games—in an effort to raise money for their class trips. However, this event is more than a fundraiser; it is an opportunity to bring together our community with a yearly tradition. Parents, children, and neighbors all come together to enjoy food, win prizes, and fuel school pride. 

This year’s theme, “Small Town, Big Memories,” is a phrase that captures the essence of Delavan’s history. Each class represents their given decades, ranging from the 1950s to the 1980s, and is tasked to bring the nostalgia to life. Whether it’s rock n’ roll from the ’50s or the groovy beats from the ’70s, Carnival promises an enjoyable and memorable experience for all ages. You can expect great things for this year’s event!

As the date approaches, anticipation for this beloved event continues to grow, with the community eager to see what Delavan’s students have in store. These students pour their creativity and energy into every detail, learning the values of teamwork, dedication, and patience along the way. So mark your calendars for Friday, September 26, and come celebrate the decades, the memories, and the tradition that make Delavan truly special! It’s a night you won’t want to miss!

Jim Edgar, one of Illinois’ most respected and enduring political figures, passed away Sunday at the age of 79. He died after being hospitalized due to a reaction to treatment for cancer. Edgar had publicly announced his diagnosis of metastatic pancreatic cancer in January.

Known for his steady leadership, bipartisan appeal, and deep commitment to public service, Edgar leaves behind a legacy that shaped the state’s political and civic landscape for more than half a century.

Born July 22, 1946, in Vinita, Oklahoma, Edgar was raised in Charleston, Illinois, by his mother after his father’s untimely death in a car accident. A born-again Christian, Edgar’s early life was marked by resilience and a strong sense of purpose. He graduated from Eastern Illinois University, where he met his wife, Brenda. The couple raised two children together.

Edgar’s political journey began in 1968 as a legislative intern under Illinois Senate President Pro Tempore W. Russell Arrington, whom Edgar later credited as his most influential mentor. After an unsuccessful bid for the Illinois House in 1974, Edgar won a seat in 1976 and was reelected in 1978.

In 1981, Edgar was appointed Illinois Secretary of State following Alan Dixon’s election to the U.S. Senate. He won full terms in 1982 and 1986, earning praise for his efforts to combat drunk driving and his push for mandatory auto insurance.

Edgar ascended to the governorship in 1990, succeeding Jim Thompson. Sworn in as Illinois’ 38th governor on January 14, 1991, Edgar inherited a nearly $1 billion budget deficit amid a national recession. His first year saw a tense budget standoff with lawmakers, culminating in $80 million in cuts and the continuation of a temporary income tax surcharge.

Despite early fiscal challenges, Edgar’s administration was marked by pragmatic reform. He led the state through the devastating Great Flood of 1993, advocated for early childhood education and prenatal care, and championed school reform—calling improvements in Chicago’s public schools his proudest achievement.

Edgar’s tenure included high-profile clashes with Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley over Meigs Field, casino gambling, and a proposed domed stadium for the Bears. Though tensions flared, Edgar maintained a reputation for integrity and moderation.

In 1997, Edgar testified in a bribery trial involving state contractors. While convictions followed for those involved, Edgar himself was never accused of wrongdoing.

After recovering from quadruple bypass surgery in 1994, Edgar won reelection and served until 1999, choosing not to seek further office. He remained active in civic and political discourse, often offering candid commentary on national affairs. In 2024, Edgar made headlines for his criticism of President Trump and his support for Kamala Harris through the “Republicans for Harris” initiative.

In February 2025, Edgar publicly shared his battle with metastatic pancreatic cancer. Undeterred, he continued to engage with the public and was honored in June with the dedication of the Jim Edgar Reading Room at the Illinois State Library in Springfield.

“There is perhaps no more fitting tribute to him than the Illinois State Library reading room,” said Governor JB Pritzker at the ceremony. “A place that holds within it shelves and pages upon pages that extol the virtue that Jim Edgar has exemplified and fought for throughout his life — civic engagement, public good, intellectual freedom.”

Jim Edgar’s life was a testament to principled leadership, quiet strength, and enduring service. Illinois mourns the loss of a governor, mentor, and public servant whose impact will be felt for generations.