Today’s News: Being there

Unless otherwise noted, all links via the Journal Star:

• The Associated Press is reporting that U.S. Ray LaHood of Peoria was among a group of U.S. officials who attended the vote that elected Lebanon’s new president. The U.S. wasn’t happy that this particular guy was elected, as it was part of a deal brokered by Iran.
• Loucks school is closing for good, and the Journal Star found people to talk about their memories of the place.
• Overnight crime includes two stabbings, here and here.
• Memorial Day isn’t really about BBQ, folks.  In Roanoke, Pfc. Phillip Pannier is remembered by family and friends.
• The award-winning (snicker) Journal Star editorial board makes, I believe, compelling arguments in favor of giving the green light to the Peoria Public Library District’s $35 million renovation and expansion plan. Granted, the PJS has made library expansion one of their causes, and the JSEB would likely support any plan that came down the pike. But the plans in place do fulfill all the promises made to voters before the referendum passed overwhelmingly. In fact, I cannot think of one good HONEST reason for the council to fail to pass this. I’ve heard one or two DISHONEST reasons, but I hope these were just nasty rumors.