Cover Story
Phoenix Center facing closure
Two years after Sara Bowen-Lasisi began working for the Phoenix Center, she realized the Springfield nonprofit appeared to be overbilling the state for grant-supported HIV testing. But Bowen-Lasisi said the questionable practice was openly admitted and encouraged by the former executive director, Jonna Cooley. According to Bowen-Lasisi, Cooley said, “‘We were doing the work, so…
The Drama serves as a cautionary tale, Thrash a silly, welcome respite
Smart Drama a cautionary tale for today A cautionary tale for today, Kristoffer Borgli’s The Drama is a movie that thrives on making its characters and the viewer uncomfortable. Handling hot button topics with a commendable deft touch, the film puts social media era relationships under the microscope, as well as our ever-shifting perspectives of…
Letters to the editor
WE’RE ALL COMPLICIT These data centers concern me. The only thing I feel a rational person can do is significantly reduce their reliance on them. Until a person does this, they are complicit in their construction. I have to scratch my head when someone tells me that they are using the very infrastructure that data…
Lord of the Rings
I sought and found a certain grave in North Oxford. J.R.R. Tolkien’s headstone read simply “Beren” and his wife’s read “Luthien.” I found a pair of those special dice some of you will know well, hidden in the leaves, a gift from another pilgrim. 2026 Jacqueline Jackson
Strawberry season
Many may be surprised to learn that strawberries are not technically a fruit or even a berry. Botanically, strawberries are classified as a pseudocarp, or “false fruit.” The juicy, red part that we eat is referred to as the receptacle, or the part of the plant that produces the fruit, rather than the fruit itself.…
Mary Lincoln’s dress of defiance
In May 1861, Mary Lincoln posed for what was likely her first official portrait as first lady with the highly respected Washington, D.C., photographer Mathew Brady. He would become renowned for stark Civil War battlefield photos. Before that he was known for photographing America’s leaders and well-known figures. Mary chose a black silk dress embroidered…
Bring on April music
For some reason things feel like they’re moving rapidly right now as we are set up to get into the second full weekend in April already. Time marches on and I guess we just have to keep up with the beat and follow on through to the other side. And, of course, enjoy the many…
Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon
SPORTS | Run where Lincoln walked on Saturday This annual event immerses runners in Lincoln history unlike any other race! The race starts and finishes at the Old State Capitol where Lincoln gave his House Divided speech and near his former law office. The course also goes by his home, through Oak Ridge Cemetery and…
