PEORIA - As the days of summer grow longer and as we near the midpoint of the year, it's time for that annual ritual that Peorians in the city's older neighborhoods despise - a barrage of fireworks on a nightly basis.

WASHINGTON - The school sign in front of the main entrance to Washington Community High School and a parking lot across West Jefferson Street from the sign each will be getting a new look.

MORTON - Extracurricular activities outside of sports remain a point of emphasis in the Morton School District even though the administrator in charge of strengthening and expanding those activities has taken another job.

PEORIA - A vacant home in the 3400 block of West Mary Knoll Court sustained $68,000 in damage Sunday afternoon and was immediately scheduled for demolition.

Usually, by mid-year, employees have burned some paid time off on spring break trips or summer getaways.