Click Here for details.
Save Save Save Save
Published in the Cass County Star-Gazette on April 10, 2026
Something new is coming to Cass County.
A new, easier to read, more colorful version of the Star- Gazette will be hitting the streets and landing in subscribers' mailboxes soon.
The paper's parent company, CherryRoad Media, after reader research and market analysis, decided to redesign the paper into an innovative new colorful tabloid format.
"We are excited to announce that the print edition is getting a brand-new look and feel thanks to the latest advancements in digital printing. This transformation means sharper images, richer colors, and an even better reading experience — all while maintaining the quality community journalism you rely on every day," Jeremy Gulban, CherryRoad CEO explained.
"This change brings several bonuses to readers and advertisers," Gulban said. They include:
Q: Why is the newspaper switching to digital printing?
A: Digital printing offers higher-quality images, sharper text, and a more vibrant reading experience. It also allows us to be more sustainable by reducing waste and making print runs more efficient, ensuring that we continue delivering the high-quality journalism you trust.
Q: Will the newspaper look different?
A: Yes, you will notice some changes. The images will be crisper, the colors more vibrant, and the text sharper. While the format and layout will remain familiar, the improved print quality will enhance your reading experience.
Q: Will this affect my subscription?
A: No, your subscription remains the same.
Q: Is digital printing environmentally friendly?
A: Yes! Digital printing reduces waste because it eliminates the need for printing plates and excess copies. This process helps us create a more sustainable future while continuing to deliver reliable news.
Q: I prefer the old printing method. Can I still get the newspaper the way it was before?
A: We understand that change can take time to adjust to, but we truly believe this transition offers better print quality, sustainability, and value. We encourage you to try the new edition and share your feedback with us.
Q: How can I share feedback about the changes?
A: We'd love to hear from you! You can email the editor at sallylael@cherryroad.com
View all Illinois public notices 24 hours a day - publicnoticeillinois.com
Member Log-In + Contact Us + Events + PressLines + Job Bank + Advertising Toolbox + Upload Pages
Subscribe to RSS headline updates from: Powered by FeedBurner
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 6, 2026 Media Contact Information: Contact: Betsy McCloskey betsy@plaidswan.com (563) 513-9499
Interactive America 250 experience to visit August 6–9
WEST BRANCH, Iowa — One of America's most recognizable traveling tributes to freedom and citizenship will arrive in West Branch this August as part of the grand reopening celebration of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. The Freedom Truck, a massive mobile museum touring the nation in celebration of America's 250th anniversary, will be on display August 6–9, 2026, at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site. The Freedom Truck is part of a fleet of six custom-built 18-wheelers traveling coast to coast as part of the America 250 movement. Featuring immersive exhibits, interactive technology, and educational experiences, the trucks bring America's story directly to communities, schools, military installations, and civic events across the country. Its appearance in West Branch coincides with the August 6 grand reopening of the newly renovated Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, creating a unique opportunity for visitors to experience both America's history and the legacy of one of the nation's most influential public servants. "Few places are more appropriate for a Freedom Truck visit than West Branch, Iowa," said Tom Schwartz, director for the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. "As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, visitors can explore the story of our nation while also discovering the life and legacy of Herbert Hoover, whose commitment to service, humanitarian relief, and civic leadership continues to inspire generations." The Freedom Truck experience complements the broader America 250 celebration taking place across the nation and reinforces the importance of preserving and sharing America's story. That mission closely aligns with the work of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum and Hoover's own commitment to preserving the nation's historical record through the National Archives system. "The Freedom Truck provides a wonderful opportunity for visitors to connect the story of America's founding and democratic ideals with the place where Herbert Hoover's own story began," said Pete Swisher, superintendent of the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site. "As we welcome visitors to West Branch during this special celebration, we invite them to explore the birthplace, historic buildings, and landscapes that shaped one of America's most remarkable public servants." Long before presidential libraries became common, Herbert Hoover championed the preservation of government records and historical documents, helping strengthen efforts that ultimately shaped the modern National Archives. Today, his presidential library continues that mission by preserving and sharing documents, artifacts, and stories that help Americans better understand their history. Visitors to West Branch will have the opportunity to experience the Freedom Truck throughout its four-day stay while also exploring the newly reimagined museum, which features updated exhibits, immersive experiences, and expanded educational opportunities designed to connect new generations with Hoover's life and legacy. For more information about the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum grand reopening, visit hooverpresidentialfoundation.org. About the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum Located in West Branch, Iowa, The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum collects, preserves, and shares documents and artifacts that record the lives and times of Herbert Hoover, the 31st President and Lou Henry Hoover, First Lady, of the United States. The museum is part of the National Archives and Records Administration's Presidential Library system. MEDIA ALERT As members of the Midwest media community, we would like to extend a special invitation to an exclusive sneak preview of the newly renovated Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum before its public reopening. These media-only tours will offer a first look at the transformed galleries, exhibits, and visitor experience before visitors arrive. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the museum, capture photos and video, and speak with project leaders about the extensive renovation and the significance of this national historic destination. The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum has undergone its most significant transformation in decades, and we are excited to share this important Iowa story with you before the doors officially reopen to the public on August 6. Please let us know if you would like to secure a date and time in July, and we will do our best to accommodate your schedule. Thank you for your continued coverage of stories that matter to our region!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 29, 2026 Media Contact Information: Contact: Alison Maley alison@ilprincipals.org 217-525-1383
###
Springfield, Illinois — Brian Faulkner, principal of Kaneland Harter Middle School in Sugar Grove, Illinois, will serve as president of the Illinois Principals Association for the 2026–2027 school year. Faulkner has selected IPA’s theme for the year as “Unlocking Potential,” which will be celebrated at the Education Leaders Annual Conference in October 2026. “Unlocking Potential is centered on the belief that leadership is not confined to a title—it exists within every member of a school community,” Faulkner said. “When we intentionally develop leadership capacity in educators, staff, and students, we create stronger collaboration, greater ownership, and learning experiences that support the success of every student.” Dr. Jason Leahy, executive director for the Illinois Principals Association, said, “Brian Faulkner is an exceptional leader. His colleagues constantly seek him out for guidance and support. Brian has served at all levels of the Association, which provides him the perspective and experience needed to ensure our members continue to receive the services they need to do what is best for their students.” Faulkner brings extensive middle-level education experience to the role. He began his career as a classroom teacher and later served as a dean of students in Valley View School District 365U. He then became an assistant principal in Huntley Community School District 158 before earning his first principalship in Itasca School District 10. Faulkner has served as principal of Kaneland Harter Middle School since 2015. A committed educational leader, Brian has been actively involved with the Illinois Principals Association, previously serving in numerous leadership roles, including Region Membership Chair, Region Director, State Director, and President-Elect. Brian Faulkner earned a Bachelor of Science with teacher certification from Southern Illinois University Carbondale and a master’s in educational leadership from Benedictine University. Outside of his professional life, Brian enjoys spending time with his wife, Katy, and their three daughters, Allison, Nora, and Avery. The Illinois Principals Association is a professional organization serving more than 7,000 educational leaders throughout Illinois. IPA supports principals, assistant principals, deans, and other school leaders through advocacy, professional learning, networking, and resources that strengthen leadership and improve outcomes for students. Learn more at www.ilprincipals.org.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 28, 2026 Media Contact Information: Contact: Cheri Breneman cheri@iafpd.org 217-525-6620
PEORIA — The Illinois Association of Fire Protection Districts is a nonprofit organization representing more than 600 fire protection districts and 2,800 individual members throughout the state. The IAFPD mission is to support better governance by fire protection district officials through education, resources, communication, and legislation. The IAFPD hosted its 81st Annual Conference on June 11–13 in East Peoria for the first time. The three-day event brought together fire officials from Marion to Rockford and from Quincy to Danville, to meet at the Embassy Suites Riverfront Conference Center. Attendees took part in educational sessions focused on legal compliance, legislative updates, local government challenges, and fire department leadership practices. “Bringing together fire officials from every corner of Illinois strengthens our ability to address the challenges facing local government and emergency services," said Ken Yeakley of Hammond, the IAFPD director and conference chair. "We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the success of this event and look forward to building on that momentum in the years ahead." The IAFPD Conference embraced several fire service traditions, including a special tribute to America’s 250th birthday. The Peoria Fire Department raised a 15-foot American flag on a ladder truck, surrounded by fire and emergency vehicles. The ceremony included a grand entrance of a 9/11 Remembrance Exhibit, escorted by members of the East Peoria Fire Department, the East Peoria Police Department, and a group of motorcyclists. The audience then turned its attention to the National Anthem, performed by local music professional, Lee Wenger. The conference’s opening session paid tribute to a tragic day that profoundly affected our nation and the City of New York and forever changed the landscape of the fire service. The IAFPD welcomed two leaders from the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), who shared their experiences confronting unprecedented challenges during and in the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks. The evening weather provided the perfect setting for the conference’s social event, held on the hotel’s terrace overlooking the riverfront and city skyline. Attendees enjoyed a lively singalong performance by Marcell Guyton. The conference also invited fire protection districts to recognize the members of the Boards of Trustees for their years of service and/or outstanding service provided to their respective communities. Congratulations to Steve Gustafson of Hampshire Fire Protection District as the recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Service Award. Gustafson has served 49 years with the department, 19 as a trustee. Gustafson has been a regular attendee of the IAFPD Conference and other trustee training events. An annual memorial service held on Saturday honored fallen firefighters in Illinois and remembered members of the Association and friends of the Illinois fire service who passed away during the past year. The service led by newly elected IAFPD President Damon Schuldt included a traditional bell-ringing ceremony by Chaplain Richard Joyce, along with musical performances by Haley Richbark and David Fulton. The IAFPD extends its appreciation to the fire protection district officials who took time to attend the conference. The Association also thanks the City of East Peoria, the staff of Discover Peoria, and the employees of Embassy Suites Riverfront Conference Center for their professionalism, support, and hospitality during the Association’s first year at this location. The IAFPD 82nd Conference will return to the same venue on June 24-26, 2027, and expect even greater success! For more information, contact Cheri Breneman, Association Administrator at 217-525-6620 or email cheri@iafpd.org.