F. Miller
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Western Illinois track and field achieves wins and personal bests at Iowa Open
Western Illinois University's track and field team delivered notable performances at the Iowa Open, earning event titles and setting personal records. The program, which is based in Macomb, Illinois, represents the university as the Leathernecks and competes in the Ohio Valley Conference's indoor and outdoor championships. More information about their participation can be found on their official website.
Western Illinois scores 21 runs in victory over Alabama A&M
Western Illinois University Leathernecks Women's Softball secured a 21-5 win over Alabama A&M on Wednesday at Bulldog Field in Macomb, Illinois. The game ended after six innings due to the run-rule. This victory improved the team's record to 3-7 for the season. The Leathernecks started strong, scoring three runs in the first inning. Maria Luna brought in the opening run with a single to left center, Ruby Tarr scored on a passed ball, and Sophia Sanchez hit an RBI triple down the right-field line.
Western Illinois softball falls to Alabama A&M in high-scoring road game
Western Illinois University's women's softball team lost a close game to Alabama A&M on Tuesday, with a final score of 11-10 at Bulldog Field in Huntsville. The Leathernecks, who play at the NCAA Division I level and are members of the Ohio Valley Conference according to their official website, recorded one of their best offensive outings of the season despite the defeat. The Leathernecks (2-7) collected 11 hits and six walks, scoring all 10 runs over four innings.
Western Illinois names Justin Evans assistant coach for women's soccer
Western Illinois University has announced the appointment of Justin Evans as an assistant coach for its women’s soccer program ahead of the upcoming season. Evans, originally from Ohio, has experience in player development, goalkeeping instruction, and program leadership at various levels including collegiate, club, and high school. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Sport Management from Shawnee State University and a master’s degree in Sport Management from Ohio Dominican University.
Western Illinois Leathernecks softball prepares for road games against Alabama A&M
Western Illinois University Leathernecks Women's Softball will continue its early season schedule with a series against Alabama A&M. The games are set for Tuesday, February 17 and Wednesday, February 18 at Bulldog Softball Field in Huntsville, Alabama. Alabama A&M comes into the series with a 5-3 overall record and recently defeated Coppin State 8-5. The Bulldogs have demonstrated the ability to generate offense early in the season and aim to maintain that performance during this matchup.
Western Illinois Baseball drops opening series at University of San Francisco
Western Illinois University Leathernecks Men's Baseball opened its 2026 season with a three-game series against the University of San Francisco at Benedetti Diamond. The team, which competes at the NCAA Division I level and is a member of the Ohio Valley Conference according to its official website, traveled from Macomb, Illinois, for the matchups. In Friday’s opener, Western Illinois lost 2-0. The Leathernecks managed four hits, led by Paul Osting’s two-hit game that included a double.
Western Illinois baseball opens 2026 season against University of San Francisco
Western Illinois University's baseball team is set to start its 2026 season with a series of games against the University of San Francisco Dons at Benedetti Diamond in San Francisco. The Leathernecks, who compete at the NCAA Division I level and are members of the Ohio Valley Conference according to their official website (https://goleathernecks.com/sports/baseball), will be facing a nonconference opponent as they begin their new campaign.
Western Illinois track & field to compete at GVSU Big Meet and Roger Haynes Invitational
The Western Illinois University track and field team will compete in two events this weekend, participating in the GVSU Big Meet on Friday in Allendale, Michigan, and the Roger Haynes Invitational on Saturday in Monmouth, Illinois. The Leathernecks are aiming to maintain their momentum as the indoor season progresses.
Western Illinois women’s basketball defeats Eastern Illinois with strong home performance
Western Illinois University’s women’s basketball team secured a decisive 93-49 victory over Eastern Illinois on Tuesday night at Western Hall in Macomb, Illinois. With this win, the Leathernecks improved their overall record to 20-4 and now stand at 12-3 in Ohio Valley Conference play. The Leathernecks established control early, leading 21-7 after the first quarter and extending the advantage to 43-19 by halftime. The third quarter saw Western Illinois score 26 points, further widening the gap.
Illinois House Democrats propose escalating carryout bag tax; Rep. Hammond voices opposition
Illinois House Democrats have introduced a bill that would impose a new tax on carryout bags, affecting paper, plastic, and reusable bags. The proposal, put forward by Democratic Representative Laura Faver Dias, would start with a 10-cent fee per bag in January 2027. The fee would increase by five cents each year through 2030, reaching 25 cents per bag.
Western Illinois women’s tennis falls just short in close home opener
Western Illinois University's women's tennis team narrowly lost a close match 4–3 on Friday in Macomb, Illinois. The contest included several three-set singles matches and came down to the final points in the lower part of the lineup. The Leathernecks started well by winning two out of three doubles matches. Mana Fawcett and Jessica Hess secured a 6-2 win at No. 1 doubles, while Nour Gueblaoui and Chloe Routier earned a 6-3 victory at No. 3 doubles, giving Western Illinois an early 1-0 lead.
Western Illinois women’s basketball claims road win over Tennessee Tech
Western Illinois University Leathernecks Women's Basketball secured a 68-53 road victory over Tennessee Tech on Thursday at the Eblen Center. The team, based in Macomb, Illinois, and competing in the Ohio Valley Conference, improved its season record to 19-3 overall and 11-2 in conference play. After a close first quarter, Western Illinois took control by outscoring Tennessee Tech 21-7 in the second quarter.
Western Illinois baseball projected tenth in OVC preseason coaches poll
Western Illinois University’s baseball team has been selected to finish 10th in the 2026 Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Baseball Predicted Order of Finish. The poll, released Wednesday, was determined by votes from the league's head coaches and communications directors. SIUE received the top ranking with 10 first-place votes and a total of 137 points, narrowly ahead of Southeast Missouri, which finished with 136 points.
Western Illinois track & field prepares for Missouri Invitational and Keck Invite
The Western Illinois University track and field team will compete at two meets this weekend: the Missouri Invitational and the Keck Invite. The events are scheduled for February 6-7. The Leathernecks recently participated in the Meyo Invite, where junior Dana Surwillo set a new program record by clearing 3.98 meters in the pole vault. This achievement follows a series of strong performances from the team in recent seasons, including setting records and earning academic honors.
FOIA request sent to City of Pittsfield regarding vendor payment registers on February 1, 2026
FOIA Request to City of Pittsfield regarding vendor payment registers on February 1, 2026. A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the City of Pittsfield by West Central Reporter, a media organization focused on local governmental affairs. The request seeks access to the city's vendor payment register for the preceding calendar month.
Western Illinois University adds 26 new mid-year players to football roster
Western Illinois University has announced the addition of 26 mid-year signees to its football program. The new class consists of a blend of transfers from FCS programs, junior colleges, and high school prospects. The university aims to add depth and experience across several positions with this group. Among the incoming players is Devon Anderson, a senior linebacker transferring from Central Connecticut State University.
Western Illinois women’s tennis secures narrow victory over Valparaiso
Western Illinois University’s women’s tennis team secured a 4-3 win against Valparaiso on Saturday. The match was closely contested, with the outcome decided in the final singles matches. This result brings the Leathernecks’ season record to 2-3. Valparaiso took an early advantage by winning the doubles point, requiring Western Illinois to recover in singles play. In response, Western Illinois achieved four victories in singles matches.
President’s Message: F. Hudson Miller Starts His Term With a Call to Action
By F. Hudson Miller Now that last fall’s board election is behind us, I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the Editors Guild for the next three years. I look forward to working with the board of directors and officers, National Executive Director Scott George and the Guild staff, and our rank and file to improve our members’ working lives (wages, benefits, and conditions) and to protect our federally guaranteed workers’ rights.
Western Illinois falls to UT Martin in home men's basketball matchup
Western Illinois University's men's basketball team lost to UT Martin 84–44 at Western Hall on Saturday. The Skyhawks established control early, leading 38–20 at halftime after shooting 43.8 percent in the first half and holding the Leathernecks to just 7-of-26 from the field. In the second half, UT Martin maintained momentum, shooting over 60 percent and outscoring Western Illinois 46–24.
Western Illinois women's tennis defeats Chicago State University in nonconference play
Western Illinois University's women's tennis team secured a 5-2 win over Chicago State University in a nonconference match held on Friday. The Leathernecks began the match by claiming the doubles point. Nour Gueblaoui and Richardlyne Francois won their No. 2 doubles match with a 6-0 score, while Nadezhda Petkova and Chloe Routier were awarded the No. 3 doubles point by default.
Western Illinois women’s tennis prepares for road match against Valparaiso
The Western Illinois University women's tennis team is set to continue its road trip with a match against Valparaiso on February 1, 2026. The contest will take place at The Courts of NWI in Valparaiso, Indiana. This season marks the third year under head coach Luke Ogren. Last year, the Leathernecks posted an overall record of 12-9. In their most recent outing, Western Illinois secured a 5–2 nonconference win over Chicago State.
Western Illinois softball ranked ninth in OVC preseason poll for 2026
Western Illinois University’s softball team has been ranked ninth in the 2026 Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Softball Predicted Order of Finish. The poll was determined by votes from the league's head coaches and announced by the conference on Thursday. The preseason poll placed Southeast Missouri at the top with 148 points and eight first-place votes. SIUE and Eastern Illinois followed closely, with 139 and 138 points respectively.
2 inmates sentenced in Pike County to be released from prison during February
There are two inmates sentenced in Pike County set to be released from prison in February, according to the Illinois Department of Corrections. Thomas Wellman, who served the longest sentence among them, spent more than three years incarcerated for an offense recorded as 'meth delivery under 5 grams'. Data from the Illinois Department of Corrections shows the state spends about $52,843 a year per incarcerated person.
Western Illinois golf teams ranked in OVC preseason polls; Thorne and Howe named players to watch
Western Illinois University's men's and women's golf teams have been ranked in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) 2025–26 preseason polls. The rankings, determined by a vote of the league's head coaches, place Western Illinois ninth among women's teams and eleventh on the men's side. On the women's side, Morehead State is projected to win the conference title, followed by Little Rock and Tennessee Tech. Western Illinois received 12 points in the poll.
Illinois Department of Corrections set to release 3 inmates sentenced in Morgan County during February
There are three inmates sentenced in Morgan County set to be released from prison in February, according to the Illinois Department of Corrections. Tyler S. Royer, who served the longest sentence among them, spent more than one year incarcerated for an offense recorded as 'possession of meth, under five grams'. Data from the Illinois Department of Corrections shows the state spends about $52,843 a year per incarcerated person.
Mana Fawcett named OVC singles player of the week for Western Illinois tennis
Western Illinois University sophomore Mana Fawcett has been recognized as the Ohio Valley Conference Singles Player of the Week, according to an announcement from the league on Tuesday. Fawcett, who is from Acworth, Georgia, achieved a 2-0 record at No. 3 singles during Western Illinois' first match of the season against IUIndy. She began her week with a straight-set win over IU Indy, posting a 7-5, 6-3 result.
Western Illinois baseball prepares for 2026 season with veteran core and added depth
Western Illinois University's baseball team is preparing for the 2026 season with a roster that combines returning veterans and new transfers. Under head coach Terry Davis, the Leathernecks have focused on building continuity and strengthening their pitching staff. The team's efforts were recognized in D1Baseball's 2026 Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Season Preview, which described Western Illinois as one of several programs working to become more competitive within the league.
Western Illinois track teams compete strongly at Larry Wieczorek Invitational
Western Illinois University's track and field teams participated in the Larry Wieczorek Invitational at Iowa's indoor facility over the weekend, competing against a strong field. The Leathernecks delivered notable performances across multiple events. In the men's sprints, freshman Kenneth Cooley led with a 7.19-second finish in the 60 meters and ran 23.01 seconds in the 200 meters.
Western Illinois falls to Southern Indiana in conference basketball matchup
Western Illinois University's men's basketball team lost to Southern Indiana on Friday night, with a final score of 96–64 at Liberty Arena. Southern Indiana took control early in the game, leading 51–31 at halftime. The Screaming Eagles made over half their shots in the first half, while Western Illinois had difficulty matching their offensive output. Isaiah Griffin led Western Illinois with 13 points, shooting 4-of-13 from the field and making four out of six free throws.
Western Illinois women’s tennis opens spring season hosting IUIndy and Marquette
The Western Illinois University women's tennis team is set to begin its spring season with home matches against IUIndy and Marquette. The matches will take place on January 23 and 24, 2026, at the Lakeside Recreation Facility in Galesburg, Illinois. This marks the third season for head coach Luke Ogren. Last year, the Leathernecks finished with a 12-9 overall record. The team ended its fall season by competing at the Redbird Duals, where they recorded several wins in both singles and doubles play.
Western Illinois falls to Morehead State despite strong third-quarter performance
The Western Illinois University women's basketball team was defeated by Morehead State, 63–53, in a road game at Johnson Arena on Thursday night. The Leathernecks now hold a record of 15–3 overall and 7–2 in the Ohio Valley Conference. Western Illinois kept the game close throughout all four quarters, with Morehead State unable to build an early lead.
Western Illinois track team to open season at Larry Wieczorek Invitational
The Western Illinois University track and field team will begin its 2026 season by competing at the Larry Wieczorek Invitational in Iowa on January 23 and 24. The event will feature a full schedule of track and field competitions over two days, including weight throw, shot put, high jump, long jump, various running events, pole vault, triple jump, hurdles, relays, and special premier races.
Hammond supports new law expanding property tax relief eligibility for Illinois seniors
A new law in Illinois, supported by State Representative Norine Hammond, aims to provide greater property tax relief for seniors. Senate Bill 642 (P.A. 104-452) raises the maximum income limitation for the Senior Freeze Homestead Exemption from $65,000 to $75,000 for the year 2026. The threshold will increase further to $77,000 in 2027 and $79,000 for 2028 and subsequent years.
Western Illinois men’s basketball seeks first conference win at Morehead State
Western Illinois University's men's basketball team will continue its Ohio Valley Conference road trip with a game against Morehead State on Thursday, January 22 at Johnson Arena in Morehead, Kentucky. The Leathernecks are seeking their first conference win of the season after losing the first two games of their current road stretch. In their most recent outing, Western Illinois fell to Little Rock with a final score of 86–79 at the Jack Stephens Center.
Mia Nicastro highlighted by AP as player to watch for Western Illinois
Mia Nicastro, a player for the Western Illinois University Leathernecks Women's Basketball team, has been recognized as one to "Keep an Eye On" in the upcoming Associated Press Player of the Week story. Nicastro's recent performances have drawn attention from national media outlets. She is currently averaging 24.1 points per game, 10.4 rebounds, and has a field goal percentage of 51.4. Her contributions have made her a key part of the Leathernecks' roster this season.
Western Illinois falls short against Eastern Illinois in close OVC contest
Western Illinois University’s men’s basketball team lost a close Ohio Valley Conference matchup against Eastern Illinois, 57-55, on Tuesday night at Groniger Arena. The game was competitive throughout, featuring eight lead changes and being decided in the final minutes. With this result, Western Illinois drops to 4-14 overall and remains winless in conference play at 0-7. Eastern Illinois improved its record to 7-10 overall and 4-3 in the OVC.
Western Illinois announces six-game home football schedule for Hanson Field in 2026
Western Illinois University has released its 2026 football schedule, featuring a mix of home and away games against both FCS and FBS opponents. The Leathernecks will play six home games at Hanson Field, the university’s stadium with a capacity of about 16,368 spectators according to the official website. The season begins on August 27 in Macomb, with Northwestern College visiting for the opener. The team will remain at home the following week to host Illinois State on September 5.
Western Illinois men's basketball starts four-game road trip at Eastern Illinois
Western Illinois University Leathernecks Men's Basketball will begin a four-game road stretch on Tuesday night with a matchup against Eastern Illinois at Groniger Arena in Charleston, Illinois. The team is seeking its first conference win of the season as it looks to improve its standing. The Leathernecks are coming off a close 59–54 loss to Tennessee Tech at home.
Illinois enacts law easing process for permanent disability parking permits
Christopher Davidsmeyer, Illinois State Representative for 100th District | Official Website Christopher Davidsmeyer, Illinois State Representative for 100th District | Official Website A new law in Illinois aims to simplify the process for people with permanent disabilities seeking disability license plates or parking decals. Senate Bill 1256, which took effect on January 1, removes the requirement for these individuals to repeatedly prove their disability status.
Western Illinois men’s basketball edged by Tennessee Tech in home game
Western Illinois University’s men’s basketball team lost a close game to Tennessee Tech, 59–54, on Saturday at Western Hall. The Leathernecks led by eight points at halftime after holding the Golden Eagles to under 28 percent shooting and making four three-pointers in the first half. Tennessee Tech came back strong in the second half, improving their field goal percentage to over 57 percent and outscoring Western Illinois by 13 points in the final period.
Western Illinois men’s soccer faces Lindenwood in regular-season finale with postseason hopes
The Western Illinois University men's soccer team will conclude its 2025 regular season at home against Lindenwood University on Sunday, November 2. The match is set to begin at 1 p.m. at John MacKenzie Alumni Field. Currently holding a record of 4-12-2 overall and 2-6-0 in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC), the Leathernecks are aiming to secure a postseason berth with this final conference game.
Western Illinois cross country teams achieve multiple personal records at OVC Championships
Western Illinois University's cross country teams concluded their 2025 season at the Ohio Valley Conference Championships on Friday morning, with several athletes achieving personal records. In the women's 6k race, Lydia Bennett led Western Illinois by finishing eighth with a time of 21:38.01, setting a personal record that now ranks third in program history. Minori Hudson also set a personal best, finishing 31st at 22:41.09.
Western Illinois falls to Lindenwood Lions in four-set road loss
Western Illinois University's women's volleyball team lost 3–1 to Lindenwood on Friday evening in Macomb. The Leathernecks posted a .194 hitting percentage and tallied 11 blocks during the match. In the first set, Western Illinois kept pace early, with Kennedy Adair and Keyana Cruse contributing offensively. A block from Grace Kremer and Elizabeth Ziegler narrowed the gap midway through, but Lindenwood gained momentum late and won the set 25–18.
Western Illinois men's soccer secures comeback win over SIUE to stay in postseason race
Western Illinois University men's soccer team secured a 2-1 comeback victory against SIUE on Thursday night at Korte Stadium. The win keeps the Leathernecks' postseason chances alive with one regular season match remaining. SIUE took an early lead in the 14th minute, but Western Illinois responded strongly after halftime. Xavier Gagnon scored the equalizer in the 59th minute with an assist from Diego Porras. Seven minutes later, Porras netted the decisive goal following a setup by Liam Gainey.
Western Illinois women’s basketball opens season with exhibition against Quincy
Western Illinois University’s women’s basketball team is set to begin its 2025-26 season with an exhibition game against Quincy University. The matchup will take place on Tuesday, October 28 at Western Hall in Macomb, Illinois, with tip-off scheduled for 7 p.m. Central Time. Admission to the exhibition is free and does not require a ticket. This marks the third season that Western Illinois competes in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC).
Western Illinois women’s basketball defeats Quincy in preseason exhibition
Western Illinois University's women's basketball team started their 2025-26 season with a win over Quincy University in an exhibition game at Western Hall. The Leathernecks won the matchup 61–43. The team established momentum early by making more than half of their shots in the first quarter and maintained control throughout the game. Senior forward Mia Nicastro was the leading scorer, recording 24 points on 9-of-11 shooting and collecting six rebounds.
Western Illinois secures narrow football victory over Tennessee State
The Western Illinois University Leathernecks earned a narrow 17-16 victory over Tennessee State on Saturday at Nissan Stadium. This marks the team's second win of the season and its first in conference play. The Leathernecks' defense played a key role early in the game. Malini Ti'a intercepted a pass late in the first quarter and returned it 20 yards for a touchdown, giving Western Illinois a 7-3 lead.
Western Illinois volleyball defeats Tennessee State in straight sets at home
Western Illinois University's women's volleyball team secured a 3–0 victory over Tennessee State on Saturday at Western Hall. The Leathernecks recorded a team hitting percentage of .330 and achieved 10 total blocks during the match. This win marks their fourth conference victory of the season. In the opening set, Western Illinois quickly established a 7–2 lead, with contributions from Kennedy Adair and Keyana Cruse. Karlie Lane added two service aces.
Western Illinois women’s soccer to host Southern Indiana in season finale and Senior Night
Western Illinois University’s women’s soccer team will conclude its season with a home match against Southern Indiana on Sunday, October 26, at 1 p.m. in Macomb, Illinois. In their previous game, the Leathernecks secured a 1-1 draw against UT Martin at Skyhawk Soccer Field. After conceding a goal in the 38th minute, Western Illinois equalized in the 72nd minute when Hattie Mourning scored her first goal of the season, assisted by Claire Brown.
Western Illinois volleyball defeats Tennessee State in five-set home match
Western Illinois University's women's volleyball team secured a five-set win against Tennessee State on Friday at Western Hall. The match marked the Leathernecks' third victory in Ohio Valley Conference play this season. In the first set, Western Illinois established an early lead with strong serving and offense, finishing with a .318 hitting percentage and holding Tennessee State to -.095. The Leathernecks won the opening frame 25–13, aided by nine kills and three team blocks.
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