~by Colleen O’Brien As I watched opening day of the Obama Presidential Center in South Side Chicago last week, I at long last grew hopeful about life in these United States. In historic Jackson Park, additional young plantings will grow into shady woods in front of the odd-looking but intriguing eight-story edifice that holds the presidential museum. From what I’ve…
Read MoreDay: June 24, 2026
Bell Tower hosts ‘Let Freedom Ring,’ a 250th anniversary special event
In honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary celebration, the Bell Tower Community Foundation will host “Let Freedom Ring”, a free Mahanay Bell Tower special event on Sunday, July 5, from 1 to 2 pm. A concert featuring patriotic music arranged specifically to be played on carillons will be performed at 1:30 by Mark Welty of Cedar Falls (pictured). Welty is…
Read MoreMedical center offering back-to-school services
Sports physicals July 14, July 16 The calendar flips to July with fall sports practices starting to appear on the schedule and suddenly, families are staring at a growing back-to-school checklist. Physical forms, immunizations, wellness visits, sports injuries that haven’t quite healed yet and a first day of school that is arriving much faster than anyone expected. “Starting the school…
Read MorePorch Fest performers told
Jefferson Matters invites residents and visitors to spend a summer afternoon enjoying live music, neighborhood charm, and time outside during Porch Fest on Sunday, July 12, beginning at 1:30 pm. Porch Fest is a laid-back, walkable music event that brings live performances to front porches throughout Jefferson. With five performances at different locations, attendees are encouraged to stroll through the…
Read MoreRotary tells Bell Tower Festival parade winners
The Rotary Club of Jefferson announced the winners of the 2026 Bell Tower Festival parade organized by the service club for the past 30 years. Special emphasis on the categories for the awards this year coincided with the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. There were 82 entries in the parade and 25 chose to be judged…
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