Kip Cheek has been a fixture in Mendota since 1984, covering high school sports for Mendota Reporter as its sports editor, news editor, and publisher over the course of four decades. 

Kip was honored with the IHSA Distinguished Media Service Award on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at Mendota High School prior the Trojans facing Rock Falls High School in boys basketball.

Surrounded by family, friends, colleagues, and school personnel, Kip received his IHSA plaque from Mendota High School administrators.

See photos and video of Kip receiving his plaque below: