+2 COLUMN: 4 takeways from budget standoff Over Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner's veto, the Democratic-led Legislature earlier this month enacted a budget package that includes a big income tax hike. It couldn't have happened without the help of GOP lawmakers.
FOOD FARE: Meal events within the next week CHICKEN NIGHT, 4:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 19, Streator Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall, 305 E. Hickory St. Chicken and mashed potatoes, salad, bread and butter, draft beer, soft drinks. Carryouts available. 815-673-1492.
+3 HOW SWEEP IT IS! Ottawa 16s on to Central States OTTAWA — In order to keep their summer season alive and advance for the fourth straight year to the Central States Region Tournament, Ottawa's 16-and-under Senior League ballclub, the Dirtbags, needed to sweep a twin bill Tuesday from a Peru All-Stars team which knocked Ottawa into the playb…