Western Illinois Today

Two Boaters Rescued Near Keithsburg

The Mercer County Sheriff’s Department reports two subjects were rescued near Keithsburg after their boat capsized. The incident happened on the 4th in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Area of Port Louisa, just north of Keithsburg. Mercer County Sheriff’s Deputies…

Only Game In Town On 4th; Dr. Ford Frog Races

It’s the only game in town on July 4th in Aledo. The Dr. Charles Ford Memorial Frog Races are set for Thursday morning at Aledo Central Park. 1988 Aledo grad Wayne Bennett never misses. He now resides and teaches in…

Mercer County Board Tables Action On School Resource Officer For Joy; Can’t Afford Their Share For Position

The Mercer County Board has tabled action on funding for a full-time school resource officer for Mercer County Junior High in Joy. Under the proposal, the school district would fund 75-percent of the position with the county picking up the…

Mercer County Board Turns Down Wheel Tax Ordinance

The Mercer County Board votes down a county wheel tax ordinance. The action taken last night after six residents speak out against the proposal, including 86 year old Marvin Smith of Aledo.   The vote was 5-3 against, with Bob…

WRMJ Interview: Aledo Grad Bennett Can’t Stay Away From Dr. Ford’s Frog Races; Neither Can His Kids

WRMJ News/Sports Director Jim Taylor visited with Aledo native and 1988 Aledo High School grad Wayne Bennett this morning.  He now teaches and resides in Johnsburg, Illinois, but he and his kids never miss the Dr. Charles Ford Memorial Frog…

Latest Downtown Project Causes Headaches For Local Businesses; Contractor To Pay For Damaged Power Poles

The Aledo City Council discusses the latest downtown street project. The conversation was last night and included frustration expressed by local businesses in the area as well as the contractor paying for three damaged power poles from the project. Mayor…