Local News

Warren Brown will portray Mark Twain on May 19 in Park Forest. –Photo submitted.

‘Catch the Twain’ Mark Twain Performance, May 19

Warren Brown, a former Park Forest resident, will portray Mark Twain in his award-winning Chautauqua-style program, “Catch the Twain” for the Park Forest Historical Society, on Sunday, May 19, at 2:30 p.m., in Park Forest Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive. The meeting also will include an Ice Cream Social to thank members, donors, and volunteers…

Hoppy Pig in Bradley recently was recognized by Rep. Haas as her May Local Business Spotlight. –Photo submitted. 

Rep. Haas Honors Hoppy Pig as May Local Business Spotlight

For the May local business spotlight, State Rep. Jackie Haas recognized Hoppy Pig in Bradley. Rep. Haas spent time touring the business and presented the owners with a certificate of appreciation for their contributions to the community. “For my May local business spotlight, I am honored to recognize Hoppy Pig in Bradley for their dedication…

Former Illinois State Police trooper who pleaded guilty in relation to deadly crash postpones hearing

Monee Police Blotter: April 29 – May 4

On April 29, at approximately 5:12 p.m., a traffic stop resulted in the arrest of Marcellus Bearden, 55, of Chicago, for driving while license suspended and aggravated speeding, after being stopped for speeding 66-mph in a 35-mph zone. Bearden was processed and released. On April 30, at approximately 12:30 p.m., officers responded to a business…

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Local Farmers Markets

To help our readers, here are some Farmers Markets that are or will soon be available for your shopping convenience. If you know of a particularly good one that we’ve not listed, please feel free to email “The Vedette,” at newsdesk@thevedette.com, so we can add it to our weekly list. Happy shopping! •Beecher: Saturdays –…

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34th Annual Rhubarb Festival May 19

The Kankakee County Museum at Small Memorial Park, 801 S. Eighth Avenue in Kankakee, will host their 34th annual Rhubarb Festival on Sunday, May 19, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This year’s festivities include a wide variety of vendors, a dime toss, kids’ zone, pie-eating contest, live entertainment, plus tours of the Taylor One-Room…

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Board Authorizes Ordinance to Better Serve Farming Community

On April 18, the Will County Board authorized an ordinance change to better serve its farming community. This change assists farm truck drivers by making permits available that allow for the movement of agricultural commodities, without being subject to fines they may otherwise incur. Prior to the change of this ordinance, drivers faced penalties for…

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FHOF Cardiology Hosting Free Smoking Cessation Meetings

Franciscan Health Cardiology Olympia Fields is hosting free weekly smoking cessation group meetings aimed at helping smokers kick the habit. Meetings help smokers learn proven strategies for success in quitting for good, develop a personal plan for quitting, minimize withdrawal symptoms, and begin living a new, healthy lifestyle. The group meetings are held weekly on…

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L.E.A.D. Day in Monee May 18

By Karen Haave L.E.A.D. in Monee will celebrate law enforcement again on Saturday, May 18, with a parade, food, raffles, and more. Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is organized and hosted by Monee residents Tracey and John Henson, with support from a handful of volunteers. Although it is tagged L.E.A.D. in Monee, the event is open…

The Police Chiefs Association will hold its 43rd annual Law Enforcement Memorial Day on May 9. –Photo submitted.

Police Chiefs Association Holding Law Enforcement Memorial Day May 9

The 43rd annual Law Enforcement Memorial Day, sponsored by the Police Chiefs Association of Will County, is scheduled for Thursday, May 9. Details of the event were announced by Tracy Chapman, president of the Association and deputy director of the Forest Preserve District of Will County. The event will begin with a 10:30 a.m. Mass…

Recycled electronics and liquids were accepted at last year’s Residential Electronics and Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Event in Beecher. –Photo submitted.

Collection Event to be Held May 11 in Beecher

The Will County Land Use Department’s Resource Recovery and Energy Division will host a collection event from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Saturday, May 11, in Beecher. Electronics, hazardous waste, and liquids, including motor oil and paint, will be collected. A maximum of two TVs and 15 gallons of paint will be allowed per…

Former Illinois State Police trooper who pleaded guilty in relation to deadly crash postpones hearing

Monee Police Blotter: April 11 – 28

On April 11, at approximately 4:25 p.m., officers responded to a theft complaint at Thorntons and met with a University Park woman who explained to officers she had lost her credit card and soon discovered it had been used on three separate occasions at Thorntons to purchase gas. Investigation took over and determined the card…

Rep. Jackie Haas –Photo submitted.

Rep. Haas Calls Out Sneaky Tactics in Senate Bill 2412

Following the passage of House Floor Amendment 2 to Senate Bill 2412 through the House, State Rep. Jackie Haas released the following statement. “I am deeply disappointed and concerned by the passage of Senate Bill 2412, as well the unnecessarily brisk process that brought it to the House floor,” said Rep. Haas. “This election omnibus…

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Attention Seniors: Community Nutrition Network/Senior Services Association Announce Newest Location

Community Nutrition Network and Senior Services Association is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest location, New Hope Christian Community Church, 4700 W. Court Street, Monee, which is scheduled for June 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Community Nutrition Network and Senior Services Association invites the community to celebrate this new partnership.…

Donated items were accepted by Helping Hands during a previous Textile and Small Home Goods Collection Event at the Will County Office Building. The annual event will be held from Monday, May 6 to Friday, May 10. –Photo submitted.

Will County Holding Annual Textiles, Small Home Goods Collection May 6-10

Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant invites residents to the annual Textile and Small Home Goods Collection Event at the Will County Office Building, 302 North Chicago Street,  Monday, May 6 through Friday, May 10. A wide range of items will be collected for reuse and recycling during the week, including coats, shirts, pants, neckties, hats,…

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Mother’s Day Basket Bingo May 11

Mark your calendar for “Mother’s Day Basket Bingo,” the bi-annual basket bingo fundraiser for Flight Club Survivor. This fun event will be held on Saturday, May 11, with doors opening at 5 p.m. and bingo at 6 p.m., at 209 W. Dixie Highway in Grant Park. Tickets are $20 per person for the family friendly…

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Healing and Investment Key to Growth in Our Communities, State

“Put yourself in their shoes. Have a heart.” As a member of the Illinois Senate’s budget committee on Health and Human Services, I work with my fellow legislators to understand the needs in our communities and try to match resources to meet those needs. These are never easy decisions because homelessness and housing costs, food…

State Rep. Anthony DeLuca speaks in the House Chamber. –Photo submitted.

DeLuca Backs Reforms to Make Health Care More Affordable, Expand Access

Looking to drive down health care costs and expand access for families, State Rep. Anthony DeLuca recently backed an insurance reform plan that prioritizes patients by cracking down on large rate increases, banning “step therapy,” and stopping “junk insurance” plans that provide no real coverage. “These are needed reforms that recognize the challenges individuals have…

Rep. Haas' bill addressing childcare shortages passes from House. –Photo submitted.

House Passes Rep. Haas’ Bill Addressing Childcare Shortage

House Bill 4059, filed by State Rep, Jackie Haas, recently passed the House with a unanimous vote of 104-0. “The passage of House Bill 4059 is the first step in addressing the critical shortage of licensed daycare providers in the State of Illinois,” said Rep. Haas. “This bill ensures the Department of Children and Family…

National News

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Illinois News

For Many Illinoisans in Flood-Prone Areas, Buyouts Are the Only Way Out
For Many Illinoisans in Flood-Prone Areas, Buyouts Are the Only Way Out
Stateville may close as early as September under Pritzker’s prison plan
Stateville may close as early as September under Pritzker’s prison plan
Labor-backed bill banning 'captive audience' meetings awaits House action
Labor-backed bill banning ‘captive audience’ meetings awaits House action
House gives OK to new state agency focused on early childhood programs
House gives OK to new state agency focused on early childhood programs
ANALYSIS: ‘Significant enough’ opposition to Pritzker’s revenue plan leads to call for cuts
ANALYSIS: ‘Significant enough’ opposition to Pritzker’s revenue plan leads to call for cuts
State officials offer last goodbye to former Thompson Center as renovations begin
State officials offer last goodbye to former Thompson Center as renovations begin
Public officials seek greater oversight of prescription drug middlemen
Public officials seek greater oversight of prescription drug middlemen
Thousands of youths at risk of losing access to after-school programs
Thousands of youths at risk of losing access to after-school programs
Lawsuit alleges sexual abuse was rampant in state-run juvenile detention centers
Lawsuit alleges sexual abuse was rampant in state-run juvenile detention centers
House GOP advances 2 human trafficking victim protection bills as others remain in limbo
House GOP advances 2 human trafficking victim protection bills as others remain in limbo
Lawmakers pitch sweeping changes to energy industry and Chicagoland transit system
Lawmakers pitch sweeping changes to energy industry and Chicagoland transit system
Democrats flex muscle to kick off final month of session as revenues remain on track
Democrats flex muscle to kick off final month of session as revenues remain on track

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Area News

Pictured, left to right, are: Reed-Custer Principal Chad Klover, art teacher Jessica Baron, Faurot's sister, winner Alexandrea Faurot, Reg. Supt. of Ed. Dr. Lisa Caparelli-Ruff, Plainfield East Division Chair Cortny Troy, and art teacher Elizabeth Pankau. Alexis Anderson was unavailable for the picture. –Photo submitted.

ROE Recognizes Outstanding Talent in Art Contest Scholarship

The Will County Regional Office of Education is pleased to announce winners of its inaugural Art Contest Scholarship, showcasing the remarkable creativity and talent of students across the region. In its first year, the contest is a platform for young artists to showcase their skills and imagination, with the possibility of receiving a scholarship. Organizers…

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Potts Sentenced to 10 Years for Unlawful Use of Machine Gun

Will County State’s Attorney James Glasgow announced Gralon Potts, 38, of Chicago Heights, was sentenced recently to 10 years in prison for Unlawful Use of a Weapon (a Class X Felony). Potts pled guilty and was sentenced by Circuit Judge Bertani-Tomczak. On August 12, 2023, University Park Police responded to a dispatch for a disturbance…

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Board Authorizes Ordinance to Better Serve Farming Community

On April 18, the Will County Board authorized an ordinance change to better serve its farming community. This change assists farm truck drivers by making permits available that allow for the movement of agricultural commodities, without being subject to fines they may otherwise incur. Prior to the change of this ordinance, drivers faced penalties for…

The Police Chiefs Association will hold its 43rd annual Law Enforcement Memorial Day on May 9. –Photo submitted.

Police Chiefs Association Holding Law Enforcement Memorial Day May 9

The 43rd annual Law Enforcement Memorial Day, sponsored by the Police Chiefs Association of Will County, is scheduled for Thursday, May 9. Details of the event were announced by Tracy Chapman, president of the Association and deputy director of the Forest Preserve District of Will County. The event will begin with a 10:30 a.m. Mass…

Recycled electronics and liquids were accepted at last year’s Residential Electronics and Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Event in Beecher. –Photo submitted.

Collection Event to be Held May 11 in Beecher

The Will County Land Use Department’s Resource Recovery and Energy Division will host a collection event from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., on Saturday, May 11, in Beecher. Electronics, hazardous waste, and liquids, including motor oil and paint, will be collected. A maximum of two TVs and 15 gallons of paint will be allowed per…

JJC Scholarship Winners. –Photo courtesy JJC.

$1 Million in Donor-Funded Scholarships Awarded to JJC Students in 2023-’24

The Joliet Junior College (JJC) Foundation has awarded $1,000,522 in donor-funded scholarships to students in the 2023-24 school year. The substantial amount awarded positions the JJC Foundation as one of the leading entities among Illinois community college foundations, emphasizing its commitment to fostering educational advancement and access. “Surpassing one million dollars in student scholarships is…

Cervantes-Diaz Mugshot

Cervantes-Diaz Found Guilty of Child Pornography

Will County State’s Attorney James Glasgow announced Jose Ramon Cervantes-Diaz, 52, of Bolingbrook, was found guilty recently of three counts of Child Pornography (a Class 2 felony) following a bench trial before Circuit Judge Carmen Goodman. Sentencing is scheduled for July 17. In July 2021, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Chicago received information concerning an individual…

Donated items were accepted by Helping Hands during a previous Textile and Small Home Goods Collection Event at the Will County Office Building. The annual event will be held from Monday, May 6 to Friday, May 10. –Photo submitted.

Will County Holding Annual Textiles, Small Home Goods Collection May 6-10

Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant invites residents to the annual Textile and Small Home Goods Collection Event at the Will County Office Building, 302 North Chicago Street,  Monday, May 6 through Friday, May 10. A wide range of items will be collected for reuse and recycling during the week, including coats, shirts, pants, neckties, hats,…

Will County Clerk Lauren Staley Ferry will hold a lottery on May 7 to determine which political party will have top placement on November ballot. –Photo submitted.

Will County Clerk Holding Lottery to Determine Political Party for Top November Ballot Position

Will County Clerk Lauren Staley Ferry will hold a lottery at 9 a.m., on Tuesday, May 7, at the Will County Clerk’s Office, to determine which political party will receive the top ballot position in the November 5 General Election. The chairs of the established political parties have been notified about the lottery, and they…

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JJC Announces Outstanding Faculty Award Winners

Joliet Junior College has named Dr. Jeff Bradford and Charlotte Garrabrant the 2024 Outstanding Full-Time Faculty Member and Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Member, respectively. Dr. Bradford is a professor in the technical department, while Garrabrant teaches in the EMS/fire science program. Both were submitted for consideration to the Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA) outstanding faculty…

Join Lightways Hospice/Serious Illness Care at Dino-mite 5K Family Fun Run

Proceeds support pediatric care program Runners from across the region are invited to the 11th annual Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care 5K Family Fun Run on Saturday, June 1, at the New Lenox Commons, 1 Veterans Parkway in New Lenox. The event includes a 5K run for ages 14 and older and a Dino…

Hundreds of students receives laptops. Photo submitted.

Local Students Receive Scholarships and Laptops from Plainfield Non-Profit

By Stephanie Irvine Four local students were awarded laptops and scholarships from Plainfield non-profit organization, Vista Learning, at a special award ceremony held in Joliet, IL on April 25.   Manhattan Junior High sixth grader Eva Tolstych, Crete-Monee High School senior Kaycee Berkley, Lincoln-Way West senior Kaylee Towson-Aldridge, and Peotone High School senior Marissa Reed…