Each year we take a look back at the year that was 2013 in Monroe County and surrounding areas from the pages of the Republic-Times newspaper.

We highlight all of the major events from the year, such as Columbia freshman bowler Cameron Touchette placing seventh in the IHSA state bowling tournament, to honoring the life of popular Waterloo Walmart greeter John Petraitis, known for his songful bellow of “Welcome to Walmart,” who died June 25. Petraitis, 68, of Cahokia, had been employed at Walmart since 2005.

The R-T takes you through the year, month-by-month, summing up the headlines, as well as, bringing you the photos that helped represent the year that was.

The 2013 Year in Review hits stands Dec. 31 or you can view the Year in Review edition of the paper online, here, with an online subscription.

In addition, the paper has extended its efforts to honor 2013 and the community, as the Republic-Times has launched its first annual Republic-Times Best of 2013 contest.

The contest highlights more than 150 business and organizations through 25 categories like: “Best City,” “Best Fried Chicken,” “Best Salon,” etc. The people’s choice awards allows the community to vote for their favorite businesses from 2013.

We hope that it will bring together the community and it’s favorite local businesses, allowing people to vote for the best of Monroe County and surrounding areas.

Click here, to vote now!