Board members of the World Wildlife Fund named Evanston to lead the United States in observance of Earth Hour, an annual celebration of sustainability efforts.

U.S. News & World Report ranks every college in the United States annually, and four Illinois schools’ graduate programs ranked among the nation’s top 10 in their disciplines for the upcoming 2016 school year.

Joel Ryser became passionate about art at a young age and currently teaches at Moline High School. Outside of school, his latest interest is Hot Glass Inc., a non-profit organization he founded to teach art to teenagers. He has touched countless lives through his work as an educator, and you can read on to learn more about his artwork.

Quincy is inviting residents and tourists to come take part in a yearlong celebration of the city’s 175th anniversary. The event began Feb. 3, and the city plans other festivities throughout the year, including a parade in May.