Science and engineering bring out the competitve side of area high school students

High school competitions aren’t limited to sports. Students from area high schools put their science and engineering knowledge to the test during the Illinois Valley Community College Academic Challenge Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering competition.

It was Friday at the college. Ottawa Township High School, St. Bede Academy and Midland High School each won their respective team divisions.

Students also took home individual awards in categories such as mathematics, engineering graphics, and computer science.

Local county health officials stress the importance of being vaccinated

There hasn’t been a case of measles in La Salle County lately, but it’s on the minds of county health officials.

La Salle County Health Department Public Information Officer Jenny Barrie says they’re keeping on top of it and the cases in Palatine should be a reminder of the importance of immunizations. She says her office has fielded a lot of questions in the past couple weeks from doctors, parents and schools about measles.

She says if you’re uncertain that you or your children are up to date on immunizations, call and ask.

All Illinois school children are required to get the MMR vaccine unless they are exempt for religious reasons. Also anyone born after 1956 should get at least one dose of the vaccine.

If you are unvaccinated and start showing symptoms like a fever or rash, call your doctor or health department in advance before showing up so they can take steps to stop the spread of the illness.  Learn more by listening to an interview that’s available at the Classic Hits 103.9 WLPO News Page.