Recent Columns


Bad call: Government grabs phone records

When police discovered a homicide file was missing from the chief detective’s office, they wanted to know who took it.

Woman needs courage to end long-term relationship

Dear Abby: I am a divorcee with college-aged children. I love my children, and I thought I loved my ex. However, after my divorce I wonder if I'm capable of loving anyone other than my children again.

Free family health kits offer news you can use

Dear Abby: When friends and family get together, the conversation often turns to the subject of health. They swap stories about the medications they may be taking and the lifestyle changes they're making to improve their health. They look to each other for support and tips to get through the flu or a nasty case of food poisoning, and rely on each other's experience to tackle challenges like quitting smoking, managing heart disease, diabetes, menopause or conquering insomnia.

Two pension plans; now what?

No sign that either chamber will take up the other’s proposal

Woman is perfectly happy to be sexless

Dear Abby: I am a woman in my late 40s and I hate sex. I always have and always will. I'm disabled, and it has always been torture. I never got any positive benefits out of it.

As Brady leaves, poll shows big trouble for GOP

Voters down on Republicans; Democrats do slightly better

Groom under pressure to change his name

Dear Abby: My wife's niece is marrying a wonderful man of Greek descent this summer. Her grandfather insists that his last name is too long and impossible to pronounce. He thinks they need to change the name when they marry. He went so far as to make them call him so he could tell them what he wanted. Then he gave them 10 days to "think about it" and call him back with their answer.

In Illinois, political campaigning never ends

Don’t feel bad about your apathy toward the 2014 election.

Grandson’s choice of toys cause for concern

Dear Abby: I am a longtime reader but a first-time writer. My problem has been bothering me for some time now.

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Wise saw collapse in support

Last week, Sterling Alderwoman Amy Viering attended her last meeting as a city official. She gave the usual praise one hears at such departures. But one compliment stuck out. At the end of her speech, she turned to City Administrator Scott Shumard and said, "You're awesome."
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On pensions, Bivins and GOP far apart

Sen. Tim Bivins, R-Dixon, joined with many of his fellow Senate Republicans this week to reject a pension bill sponsored by Democratic Senate President John Cullerton of Chicago. The measure passed 40-16. Bivins had a different reason for his no vote.

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