Local Specials

During Christmas time, staff members at the Western Illinois Regional Council are especially busy. In addition to their regular jobs, they play the role of Santa and his elves.

The Council provides many things throughout the year for those in need.  Help getting food, paying the heating bill, and keeping  the lights on.

Once upon a time, browsing through a book or record store was one of life’s simple pleasures. But now many people prefer to browse on-line, which is making it more difficult for independent stores to remain in business, especially in small towns.

But there are independent stores that are finding ways to keep the doors open. One example is Stone Alley Books & Collectibles in Galesburg. Owner Ben “Stone” Stomberg said he once sold comics on-line. But when the Walden Bookstore in town closed, he got a loan and a grant from the city and set up shop on Seminary Street.