Community News Brief

10/29/2025

Check out page 5 of this week's FREE Midweek Brief publication for local Halloween events and trick or treating information! No subscription required.

The Community News Brief is a locally owned newspaper that is published 3x/week consisting of local news, featues, obituaries, events and more in and around Macomb and McDonough County

10/28/2025

The Western Illinois University chapter of Delta Upsilon Fraternity will host its 10th annual Haunted Trail over three days from 7–10 p.m., Wednesday through Friday Oct. 29–31, and Saturday, Nov. 1. The Haunted Trail will take place on the fraternity property at 620 W. Elting St. in Macomb.

The Community News Brief is a locally owned newspaper that is published 3x/week consisting of local news, featues, obituaries, events and more in and around Macomb and McDonough County

10/28/2025

Longtime former Western Illinois University Softball Coach and Macomb resident Kathy Veroni will be honored in December with the National Fastball Coaches Association's (NFCA) Humanitarian Award for her decades of dedication and contributions to the development of softball and for her charitable volunteer work within the community.

The Community News Brief is a locally owned newspaper that is published 3x/week consisting of local news, featues, obituaries, events and more in and around Macomb and McDonough County

10/28/2025

This year, the 60th annual bazaar will take place Saturday, Nov. 8 at Macomb High School.

The Community News Brief is a locally owned newspaper that is published 3x/week consisting of local news, featues, obituaries, events and more in and around Macomb and McDonough County

10/28/2025

Paying homage to its former longtime tenant, the old JCPenney of Macomb on the west side of the square, has been transformed into an event space.

The Community News Brief is a locally owned newspaper that is published 3x/week consisting of local news, featues, obituaries, events and more in and around Macomb and McDonough County

10/24/2025

The Macomb City Council voted Monday to approve 11 more home rehabilitation grants for properties in the city’s East Side and Downtown Tax Increment Finance District.

The Community News Brief is a locally owned newspaper that is published 3x/week consisting of local news, featues, obituaries, events and more in and around Macomb and McDonough County

10/24/2025

"Help and support came from all corners and I will forever be grateful to each person and prayer."

The Community News Brief is a locally owned newspaper that is published 3x/week consisting of local news, featues, obituaries, events and more in and around Macomb and McDonough County

10/24/2025

"This October, as we celebrate Women in Business, one name stands out in McDonough County: Rachel Bliven. Rachel worked tirelessly—not only as the wife of John Bliven, Illinois’ first longest-serving sheriff, but as a mother, a courthouse employee, and the cook for the county jail inmates."

The Community News Brief is a locally owned newspaper that is published 3x/week consisting of local news, featues, obituaries, events and more in and around Macomb and McDonough County

10/23/2025

4 Family Members of IL Governor Candidate, Darren Bailey Killed in Helicopter Crash

Statement from the Darren Bailey / Aaron Del Mar Campaign

On Wednesday evening, Darren and his wife, Cindy, received the heartbreaking news no parent ever wants to hear. Their son, Zachary, his wife, Kelsey, and their two young children, Vada Rose, age 12, and Samuel, age 7, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter accident in Montana.

Their other grandson, Finn, age 10, was not on the helicopter and is safe.

Darren and Cindy are heartbroken by this unimaginable loss. They are finding comfort in their faith, their family, and the prayers of so many who love and care for them. The Baileys deeply appreciate the kindness and support they have received and ask for privacy as they grieve and hold their loved ones close during this difficult time.

10/21/2025

MACOMB, IL – Macomb Chief Jeff Hamer announces his retirement, Interim Chief named.

After 24+ years in service of the city and residents of Macomb, Police Chief Jeff Hamer announced today his intention to retire, to take a position in the private sector.

Chief Hamer, a graduate of Western Illinois University (LEJA and SOC ’98), will continue to live in the community and explore private sector opportunities after his time with the City of Macomb. Hamer’s last day will be December 12, 2025.

“Being an officer for the City of Macomb, has been a dream come true”, remarked Chief Hamer.

Mayor Inman announced Macomb Police Lieutenant Todd Tedrow, a 17-year veteran of MPD will be appointed the Interim Chief of Police.

“Lieutenant Tedrow brings an outstanding set of Law Enforcement skills to the role and will begin the transition immediately”. Inman stated. Inman also added that a search will be conducted, commencing in January 2026 for a permanent replacement for Chief of Police.

Read the complete story in Friday’s edition of the Community News Brief.

10/21/2025

Carissa Bryant announced her candidacy for 9th Circuit Judge Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at the McDonough County Courthouse in Macomb. Read Friday's edition of the Community News Brief for complete story.

10/21/2025

Two women who have contributed to Western Illinois University and their community were honored Thursday evening.

The Community News Brief is a locally owned newspaper that is published 3x/week consisting of local news, featues, obituaries, events and more in and around Macomb and McDonough County