The Bureau Valley Storm are going to need Mallory Maubach to have a good season in the circle if they’re going to be successful this year. And she was good Monday. The junior hurler tossed a 3-hit shutout, pitching the Storm to a 4-0 win over Hall in Monday's 2026 season opener.

The Earlville softball team fell in its season opener at Orangeville on Monday afternoon.

How are you doing? Really – I want to know, how are you doing this week?

Beginning around 4 p.m. Tuesday night, the Illinois Valley has high potential for severe scattered thunderstorms with damaging hail and wind, and torrential rainfall that could cause flash floods.

Bill Zens announced Monday he is stepping down as executive director of the Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce.

Bureau Valley senior catcher Emily Wright said the 2026 Storm softball team wants to be remembered.

The Streator Family YMCA will host a free wellness program offering tools to manage stress.

A program, “Early Pioneers of La Salle,” will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 11 at Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center.

The Seneca softball team returns eight starters from last spring's 34-2 ballclub including the 2025 Times Softball Player of the Year, pitcher Tessa Krull, hinting at another stellar season for the Fighting Irish.

IVCC softball coach Cory Tomasson said the Eagles have "tremendous potential" with five returning sophomores combined with a talented freshmen class.