(Springfield-jm) – The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal and Illinois Department of Labor are visiting and inspecting haunted houses to make sure they are safe before opening. Haunted houses in Illinois are required to be inspected prior to operation, though haunted houses operated by not-for-profit religious, educational, or charitable organizations can apply for an exemption from the department of labor inspection. These haunted houses, however, must still be inspected by local authorities and/or the State Fire Marshal's office. State law also requires a criminal background check and sex offender registry check for all amusement attraction workers and a written substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing.

(Springfield-jm) – A new look at clean-energy jobs in the U.S. shows growth in Illinois and the prospect of greater gains in the future. Brett Peveto reports…

(Urbana-jm) – The University of Illinois Police Department is getting new equipment to give them a bird’s-eye view. Five new drones are flying for the department, and officers are excited about the new help. They have been using drones for a wide variety of tasks, mostly flying over parades and public events. Police said they see the program expanding once more officers get trained on the technology. However, there are limits to when and where they can use them, according to state law.

(Gibson City–jc)  The public has only one more chance to see the “Courage to Remember” Holocaust Exhibit in Gibson City. The traveling exhibit has been at the American Lutheran Church in Gibson City this month. University of Illinois at Springfield Teacher Brian Kahn says everyone needs to learn about this history…

U of I at Springfield Teacher Brian Kahn. The exhibit is open to the public today from 4pm to 7pm. The exhibit then will travel to Vermilion County in early October at the Vermilion County Museum in Danville. The exhibit is free to attend.

(Charleston-jm) – Eastern Illinois University is suspending its men’s swimming and diving program due to reports of hazing within the program. University officials announced the suspension on Thursday, saying the team will not be competing anymore in the fall 2023 semester. The hazing reports were disclosed to the team’s head coach and officials said they are credible.

(Buckley–jc)  One area village is planning a Halloween Festival in late October. The Buckley Community Committee says the “Lakeside Falloween Festival” will be on Saturday October 28th starting at 9am The event will be held at Buckley Lake. A decorating scarecrow contest, flea market and craft show, kids games, a pumpkin sweep and truck or treat are planned throughout the day. Music and food trucks will also be part of the Falloween Festival in Buckley on Saturday October 28th. 

(Washington-jm) – Food shoppers in 2024 may see food price inflation fall to levels not seen in about four years. Gary Crawford reports…

(Paxton–jc)  Renovation on the former legion building and lot continues in downtown Paxton. The area just south of the Paxton Post Office will be the site of a new fall event next month in the city. Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper says work on the buildings and grounds continues…

Paxton Main Street Group Executive Director Donna Pepper.

(Paxton–jc)  – Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is The Cadillac Event Center in downtown Paxton. The business has its grand opening today and tonight will host their first concert with Country Music Artist Chris Cagle. Co-Owner Scott Harden says the business model started as office space for GrandStand Concerts soon turned into a venue for concerts and more…

Harden says along with concerts, the venue will host birthdays, weddings and upcoming, glo bingo…

The Cadillac Event Center Co Owner Scott Harden

Upcoming concerts include Chris Cagle tonight at 8pm,  Saliva and Drowning Pool on Sunday and Jerrod Niemann on October 7th.  Paxton Native Gina Miles, winner of the national show, The Voice, is set to come to the venue in October. The Cadillac downtown Paxton is the WPXN Business of the Day, today.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois health care professionals are calling for system upgrades as they experience licensing delays from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Applicants say it's taken up to 3 months to receive their license. The agency blames their technology saying it dates back to the 1990’s. Lawmakers have set aside $10 million for the agency to upgrade their technology.

(Champaign–jc)  Champaign Firefighters are on the scene of a building fire along Springfield Avenue. The apartment fire started early this morning. No other details are available at this time. 

(Chicago–jc) Illinois Governor J B Pritzker was in Chicago this week attending the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference,  The group looks at the investing in cannabis companies and the branding of the industry. Governor Priztker says 50 sites for retail cannabis have been set up in the state…

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker

(Urbana-jm) – The 19th edition of an annual Down syndrome walk in Champaign is scheduled for this weekend. The Buddy Walk supports the local Down syndrome community. The event will take place Saturday on the Champaign County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Organizers are expecting anywhere from 350 to 400 people to show up. It is open to the public.

(Springfield-jm) – Volunteer fire departments around the state are encouraged to apply for grants from the state fire marshal’s office. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Pesotum-jm) – Illinois State Police K9 Loki has received a bullet and stab protective vest donated by non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 4,156 vests to K9s in all 50 states at a value of $6.9 million.

(Gibson City–jc)  –  Gibson City leaders are set to meet in a special session on Monday at 6pm. City leaders are expected to discuss the issuance of General Obligation Bonds for capital improvement projects in Gibson City. The amount is 2 million 3 Hundred Thousand Dollars. A litigation issue is also on Monday’s agenda. The meeting takes place at city hall on East 8th Street in Gibson City. 

(Washington-jm) – What factors could shape trends regarding projected prices for commodities in the foreseeable future? Rod Bain reports…

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

Parkland College Career and Technical Education will host a free 3D modeling for 3D print on Saturday from 9-1.

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting Loda Methodist Men on Saturday from 10-2.

(Loda–jc)  Firefighters in Loda responded to a structure fire in the village. Authorities say the fire happened in the 100 block of South Poplar. No other details have been released on this incident. WPXN news will continue to update this story on later newscasts today. 

(Springfield-jm) – An Illinois Auditor General report shows that the Illinois Department of Corrections has failed to keep other law enforcement agencies current on sex offenders in their towns. The compliance audit looks at the department for two years ending June 30, 2022. In total, there were 46 findings and 40 repeat findings. The findings include a failure to notify victims and local law enforcement after releasing sex offenders, including those who committed a predatory criminal sexual assault of a child, aggravated criminal sexual assault, criminal sexual assault, certain offenses of aggravated child pornography or manufacture or dissemination of child pornography.

(Paxton–jc)  The license plate readers have been in operation for around a month in the city of Paxton. The readers are not for local traffic violations. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says they are used as a safety tool for local police…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Washington-jm) – The Senate Agriculture Committee has held a hearing on foreign purchases and ownership of U.S. farmland and other farm-related businesses. Gary Crawford reports…

(Champaign-jm) – Five people were taken into custody over the last two weeks during the investigation into a gunfire exchange near Booker T. Washington Academy in Champaign, police announced. Four of the arrestees are between the ages of 15 and 18 and are believed to have taken part in the shooting. The fifth, an 11-year-old boy, is not believed to have taken part, but charges are pending after officers found guns and bullets in his bookbag. The investigation into the shooting revealed that near dismissal time at Booker T. Washington on September 14, a group of four people encountered a separate pair of people at Wright Street and Eads Street. The groups started shooting at each other and at least 10 shots were fired by four shooters, police said.

(Springfield-jm) – Those needing help paying their energy bills can start getting assistance soon. Starting October 2nd, seniors 60 and older, those with disabilities and those with kids under the age of 6 years old can apply. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City has the dates others can apply…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Danville-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that construction on the Interstate 74 bridges over Griffin Street and Stoney Creek in Danville begins October 4. The project involves replacing the I-74 bridge over Griffin Street and rehabilitation of wearing surfaces on the bridge over Stoney Creek and will reduce both bridges to one lane in each direction through December 2024.

(Rantouljc)  Rantoul village leaders continue to look to repairing and repaving streets in the community. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says it’s all part of a 5 year plan…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Paxton-jm) – The Paxton Thrift Shop Semi-annual Bag Sale starts today through Saturday, September 30.  Closed Wednesday October 4 through October 7 and reopen on October 11 with Fall and Winter clothing and other items.

(Paxton–jc)  –  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Hudson Drug and Hallmark Shop downtown Paxton. Owner Andy Hudson says he is the third generation owner of the business that started with his grandfather and dad…

  Owner Andy Hudson says  the pharmacy continues to expand to serve Paxton and a wide area in East Central Illinois…

Hudson Drug and Hallmark Shop of Paxton owner. Andy Hudson.

 You can hear more about the store with a full interview with Andy Hudson during our noon news today

(Springfield-jm) – House Speaker Chris Welch, has filed legislation that would, for the first time in Illinois, authorize legislative staff to form a union and engage in collective bargaining. House Bill 4148, creating the Legislative Employee Labor Relations Act, comes in response to a monthslong effort by Democratic staff in the speaker’s office to unionize and negotiate wages, hours and other working conditions. In Illinois, private-sector unions are governed by the National Labor Relations Board while public-sector unions are governed by the Illinois Labor Relations Board. But the law creating that board and outlining its powers specifically excludes employees of the General Assembly from the definition of “public employee.” Last year, however, the General Assembly passed, and Illinois voters approved, a Workers’ Rights Amendment to the state constitution that that declares employees “shall have the fundamental right to organize and to bargain collectively through representatives of their own choosing for the purpose of negotiating wages, hours, and working conditions, and to protect their economic welfare and safety at work.”

(Washington-jm) – Tracking foreign purchases of U.S. farmland is currently a very complex undertaking. Gary Crawford reports…

(Champaign-jm) – Parkland College trustees approved a multi-million dollar construction bid for the new AGCO Training Center at Parkland College. The board approved the bid to build the new AGCO Training Center at Parkland College at a cost of $5,433,500 from Petry-Kuhne Company of Champaign, Illinois. This is made possible by a $5 million donation by AGCO Corporation, a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of agriculture machinery and precision agriculture technology. This new training center will have three classrooms, faculty offices, and an 18,000 square feet of equipment laboratory space.

(Paxton–jc) Work on the Downtown speaker system project continues in the city of Paxton. The computers and programming have been set for the city hall block this month. Work on several other areas will continue in the fall and the system also comes with a security camera system that will help with safety and security, says Pride in Paxton’s Dawn Glad…

Pride in Paxton’s Dawn Glad

(Danville-jm) – The Vermilion County Health Department has appointed a new Public Health Administrator. Dr. Prince Danso Odei comes from the Florida Department of Health, where he was an administrator and Disease Prevention and Control manager. He will start in Vermilion County on November 1.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois harvest is running slightly behind compared to previous years. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 10% of the state’s corn crop had been harvested compared to the 5-year average of 13%. The condition of the corn crop has improved to 55% good. That is compared to 51% last week. The condition of soybeans also improved in the past seven days.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Main Street Group and local chamber continue to plan more events for local and area residents to enjoy. The Chamber has a Wine and Chocolate Walk set for October 7th and a new event,  Paxton’s Fall Gathering and Vendor Show is set for October 14th. Paxton Main Street Group Executive Director Donna Pepper says doing local events like these are popular for local residents…

Paxton Main Street Group Executive Director Donna Pepper.

Only 250 tickets will be sold for the Wine and Chocolate Walk. Around 150 have been sold so far. Tickets are available at Hudson Drug and Hallmark and at the Chamber office or on line.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency will receive nearly $140 million in grant funding to help get lead and other contaminants out of the state’s drinking water. The federal tax dollars will help Illinois remove and replace lead water pipes. Illinois leads the nation in the number of lead service pipes. The funds will also help remove and prevent contaminants, including forever chemicals known as PFAS in the state’s drinking water.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Insurance reports it has assisted life insurance consumers collect more than $8 million this year from lost or unclaimed policies. Officials said the states’ Life Policy Locator can be used by Illinoisans to find out if they are the beneficiary of a deceased relative’s lost or missing life insurance policy or annuity contract. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners reports that millions of dollars in life insurance benefits remain unclaimed each year.

(Washington-jm) – The harvests of corn and soybeans are running only slightly ahead of average. Gary Crawford explains why…

(Ford County-jm) – The Ford County Public Health Department has a new administrator. Donald Gill replaces Lana Sample who stepped down earlier this year to move to Florida. Gill served as program director for Head Start of Ford, Iroquois and Vermilion Counties. He’s also served two other previous health departments, in Kentucky and Indiana.

(Paxton–jc)  The 5th annual Wine and Chocolate Walk is set for Saturday October 7th from 11am to 4-30pm in the city of Paxton. Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce Vice President Dawn Stack says 22 businesses are participating and shuttle transportation will be available throughout the event…

Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce Vice President Dawn Stack. Tickets for the event are available on event-bright, on line or by contacting the chamber in Paxton.

(Urbana-jm) – Coroner Duane Northrup is releasing the name of a Champaign,

Illinois man that was found unresponsive in a jail cell at the Champaign County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility on Sunday. Raymond C. Gwin Jr., 33, was pronounced dead at the Champaign County Sheriff’s Correctional Facility in Urbana. An autopsy was performed on Monday at the Champaign County Coroner’s Regional Autopsy Facility. The cause of death is pending toxicology results.

(Gilman–jc)  What started as a store promotion has grown to a city event in Gilman. The last “Junk in the Trunk” event is set for Saturday starting at 8am at the Gathering in Gilman. The Gathering’s Jody Thompson says vendors will set up around the parking lot and across route 45…

The Gathering in Gilman’s Jody Thompson. Again the event starts at 9am on Saturday in Gilman. 

(Urbana-jm) – A collaborative group of local agencies is studying how to improve Lincoln Avenue in Urbana and is looking for feedback from the public. The Lincoln Avenue Corridor Study is evaluating 1.2 miles of Lincoln Avenue in Urbana, focused on the area between Green Street and Florida Avenue. The  corridor is a high-traffic location along the edge of the University of Illinois campus. The goal of the study is to identify and coordinate infrastructure improvements to increase safety and mobility along this corridor. This includes addressing known high-frequency crash locations and proposing recommendations for safe and efficient multimodal improvements to the corridor.

(Undated-jm) – House Democrat Sue Scherer says she is tired of getting calls from people in her district about Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois. Now, she wants the state to take unprecedented action against the largest health insurance provider in the state, a cease and desist order. Scherer wants the Department of Insurance to stop Blue Cross Blue Shield from taking on any new clients until they fix the issue. The Department of Insurance has already completed an investigation into Blue Cross Blue Shield. So far the company has racked up around one million dollars in fines from the state. One of the reasons that the state fined the company over $600,000 in March of 2023 was because Blue Cross Blue Shield “failed to make its provider directories clear for consumers to determine which directory applies to which plans.”

(Chicago–jc)  – An Illinois Lottery retailer in the Champaign County  town of Savoy is buzzing with excitement after selling a winning scratch-off ticket worth a cool $5 million. The winning ticket, Million $$ Match, was sold at Schnuck’s supermarket in the Savoy Plaza Center l. One lucky scratcher turned a $30 play into a $5 million payday - scoring the game’s jackpot prize. This is also a big win for the retailer that sold the winning ticket, as the store will receive a cash selling bonus of one percent. For Schnuck’s in Savoy, that means a bonus of $50,000.

(Cissna Park–jc)  Kinos Coffee of Cissna Park and Paxton is the WPXN Business of the Day today. Owner Jared Kaeb says they ship the coffee in from Mexico and roast the coffee at the two locations…

Owner Jared Kaeb says the only difference between the two locations is the size of the store as delicious products and customer service are top priorities.

Kinos Coffee Owner Jared Kaeb.  You can hear more with Jared Kaeb of Kinos Coffee throughout the day today and an interview during the noon news. 

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Airports of the Year awards have been announced by the Illinois Department of Transportation. The facilities were selected because of their cooperation and coordination with the state, safety record, maintenance of the facility, and promotion of aviation and educational events. The Primary Airport of the year award went to Willard Airport in Champaign. Illinois is home to 100 public-use airports and heliports, with nearly 3,000 aircraft registered with the Federal Aviation Administration.

(Washington-jm) – Illinois is bracing for a possible government shutdown. On Monday, Congress returned to deal with an October 1 deadline to avoid a government shutdown. In a shutdown, hundreds of thousands of federal employees, including over 40,000 in Illinois, would be furloughed or forced to work without pay. This includes active-duty military and federal law enforcement. The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget estimates that the last three government shutdowns cost taxpayers nearly $4 billion.

(Washington-jm) – Condition ratings for some crops are still changing, even at this late date in the season. Gary Crawford reports…

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man is being inducted into the Illinois Outdoor Hall of Fame. David Monk of Champaign, who died in December 2022, devoted his life to educating the public about the importance of prairie conservation. Monk had  creative outreach endeavors like towing native prairie plants in the Champaign-Urbana Fourth of July parade, Monk’s passion for environmental education and stewardship resonated deeply. His instrumental roles in saving Busey Woods, advocating for interagency cooperation, restoring urban prairie pockets, and spearheading the Kickapoo Rail Trail.

(Springfield-jm) – Those who need assistance paying their energy bills can get assistance. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City. November 1st, households that have been disconnected or received a disconnection notice can apply. All other income eligible households can apply starting December 1st.

(Farmer City-jm) – A Mahomet man is facing multiple charges after Farmer City and Illinois State Police said he led officers on a chase stretching from Farmer City to Champaign on Interstate 74. Farmer City police said an officer found two people inside a car at Weedman Park and the officer observed drug paraphernalia and what appeared to be a gun also inside the car. The officer asked the driver, 29-year-old Kody Davis, and his female passenger to exit the car. Instead, Davis sped off, nearly hitting the officer in the process. The chase neared the interchange with Interstate 57 when Davis’ car hit a State Police squad car causing him to lose control and crashed into the median cable barrier and came to a stop. He and his female passenger were taken into custody and were taken to Carle Hospital in Urbana for medical treatment. The squad car was damaged, but the trooper inside and no other officers were hurt.

(Paxton–jc)  Testing on a new Speaker system for the downtown area of Paxton continues this week. The block with city hall went on-line for the Paxton Swine and Dine and testing will continue on Friday afternoon. Pride in Paxton’s Dawn Glad says the next block north in downtown will be next, soon…

Pride in Paxton’s Dawn Glad

(Champaign-jm) – Over $800,000 is coming to communities in Champaign and Vermilion counties to support local revitalization efforts. The Illinois Housing Development Authority recently approved $19 million to support affordable housing and community revitalization efforts across Illinois. Awarded under the Strong Communities Program, the initiative will provide funding to 68 units of local governments and land bank authorities for the acquisition, maintenance, rehabilitation and demolition of abandoned residential properties in their communities.

(Springfield-jm) – As the new school year is well underway, a parent’s rights advocacy group is urging Illinois families to know what their options are concerning sex education being taught in some schools. The vast majority of Illinois school districts are not opting into controversial sexual education curricula, according to Awake Illinois. But the districts with the largest student populations are. In 2021, Governor J.B. Pritzker enacted a law aligning the state’s public schools with the National Sex Education Standards, saying the measure will modernize the subject with age-appropriate content for grades K-12. Among the standards for grades K-2 are defining gender expression, different kinds of families and types of sexual abuse. Grade 3-5 goes into anatomy, gender identity and sexual orientation. Grades 6-8 will learn about different types of sex, different types of sexual exploitation and trafficking. Grade 9-10 will learn about the history of “reproductive justice.” Grades 11-12 will learn about power and privilege within sexual relationships.

(Washington-jm) – Agriculture Secretary Vilsack says a government shutdown would affect millions of Americans. Gary Crawford reports…

(Champaign-jm) – Authorities in Champaign are asking for the public’s help through Crime Stoppers in identifying a man accused of stealing from the city’s two Target stores. Officials said that on Sept. 12, the man walked into the Target on Prospect Avenue, grabbed numerous items and made no attempt to pay before leaving. He was reported to be a repeat offender at not just that store, but at the Target in Campustown as well. The total loss of merchandise for both locations is reported to be over $1,000. Images taken from security cameras show the man is White and between the ages of 35 and 44. He had long brown hair pulled into a ponytail and tattoos on his arms and legs. He was driving a blue sedan.

(Paxton–jc)  The city of Paxton continues to take a positive approach to improve the city, keep the current business community vibrant and have a strategy for the future. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says economic development is always on the minds of city leaders…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold. The city has set up several “mapping” meetings to look at strategies for growth in the city. The first is set for Tuesday October 3rd from 5-30pm to 8-30pm in the Paxton Buckley Loda Junior High Commons area on the west side of Paxton.

(Urbana-jm) – The Illinois State Police are investigating after an inmate at the Champaign County Jail died over the weekend. Champaign County Sheriff Dustin Heuerman says correctional staff found the person unresponsive in their cell around 2:30 a.m. on Sunday. Staff and emergency medical crews performed lifesaving measures but were unsuccessful in reviving the inmate. Right now, the investigation shows the inmate likely suffered a medical emergency. The inmate’s name is being withheld at this time, pending notification of their family. Heuerman did say they were booked into the jail on Saturday.

(Cissna Park–jc)  Pumpkins in the park is returning to Cissna Park on October 7th. The event is sponsored by the Cissna Park High School F F A Chapter and the Cissna Park Development Board. F F A Advisor Jeff Clifton says the pumpkins for the event come from Woodworth in Iroquois County…

Cissna Park F F A Advisor Jeff Clifton. The activities in the park, in Cissna Park will feature a Shop the park event, kids activities and more on October 7th. 

(Iroquois County-jm) – A probable cause search of a vehicle in Iroquois County led to the arrests of two people from Kankakee County.  Sheriff's Police stopped a vehicle driven by 43-year-old Jeremy Garrison of Bourbonnais.  43-year-old Angela Simpson of Manteno was a passenger.  Both were charged with possession of Meth and drug paraphernalia.  Garrison is also facing a charge of obstructing identification and driving while license suspended.  Police also reported Garrison was wanted on a warrant out of Kankakee County.

(Buckley–jc) Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Abbe Insurance-Edge Insurance of Buckley.  Larry Abbe says open enrollment time for Medicare is coming on October 15th…

Larry Abbe reminds those with the various plans, if they want to change, now is the time to contact him to get the best plan for their individual needs…

Abbe Insurance Agent Larry Abbe. Abbe Insurance is located on the south side of Buckley in the Big White Building. Abbe Insurance is the WPXN Business of the Day, today. We have a full interview with Larry Abbe that will air during  the noon news today. 

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Supreme Court is considering whether health care workers’ Biometric Information Privacy Act rights are violated by having to provide fingerprints to access patient medication from secure cabinets. The court’s previous interpretation of BIPA, the law that allows legal action against entities for not getting consent when capturing and storing personal data such as fingerprints or face scans, has the business community looking for changes. A previous ruling could lead to business-bankrupting settlements, groups fear. Last week, representing a hospital group being sued, attorney Bonnie Keane DelGobbo said the language of the Illinois law allows for biometrics to be used in patient care in conformity with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act carved out of BIPA. Attorney Jim Zouras, representing those suing Northwestern Memorial Healthcare, argued that if the healthcare industry is exempt as defendants' claim, a large segment of Illinois’ workforce in hospitals have no BIPA rights. Zouras said the HIPAA only applies to patient data, not health care employees.

(Washington-jm) – The U-S Government could shutdown as early as this coming weekend unless a deal is reached. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack told a White House press briefing that a government shutdown would be incredibly disruptive to USDA and its millions of customers and stakeholders…

U-S Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

(Danville-jm) – Danville Area Community College’s Radiologic Technology program just received great news from the national accrediting body, JRCERT. The program that prepares students for careers as X-ray technologists has received the highest honors allowed, an eight-year accreditation extension.

(Paxton–jc)  Paxton has a new event coming to the city in mid-October. It is the “Paxton Fall Gathering and Vendor Show.” Vendors, food, music and pumpkins are all part of the celebration. Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper says fall decor from straw bales to pumpkins will be available…

Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper. A pancake and sausage breakfast kicks off the day starting at 8 that morning.

(St. Joseph-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff’s Department is investigating what they call an “incident” in St. Joseph. Deputies said a 45-year-old man approached two young kids at Cedar Drive and East Warren Streets on Friday afternoon. The sheriff’s office says they are unsure if this was an incident where the actions of the individuals involved were misinterpreted or if there was some type of malicious behavior intended. The department said the man they’re looking for has dark hair, a beard and a heavy build. He was last seen wearing shorts and a gray button-up short-sleeved “work” shirt with a patch on its chest.

(Danville-jm) – The Vermilion County Board of Health appointed a new public health administrator, effective November 1,  Dr. Prince Danso Odei was previously an administrator/health officer and also a disease prevention and control manager with the Florida Department of Health. Jana Messmore, Director of Environmental Health, has served as interim public health administrator since last November.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois residents can expect to pay more for property insurance premiums this year according to a recent report, citing a 20-to-30% spike since the onset of 2022. As reported in The Wall Street Journal, Illinois is one of six states with the steepest increases. Tornado-prone Illinois has joined extreme weather targets like Texas and California on the list that was compiled with info from S&P Global Market Intelligence. With inflation at a 40-year high, building and repair costs are high, and that is having an impact on insurance costs across the nation.

(Springfield-jm) – Challenges to the state’s gun registry and assault weapons ban continue to go through the courts. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City provides the latest…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – Two people from Texas and one person from Indiana were injured in a shooting in Champaign early Sunday morning. Police were called to the 200 block of N. Neil St. for a report of a shooting with injuries. They found an 18-year-old woman from Fort Worth, Texas with a gunshot wound to the foot. A 25-year-old man from Donna, Texas was shot in the leg. Both were taken to the hospital for treatment. As police continued to work the crime scene, a 25-year-old man from Gary, Indiana arrived at the hospital. He had driven himself. He had a gunshot wound to the arm.

(Urbana-jm) – A new grant will help land the city of Urbana two new fire stations in 2024. The city got a $1.5 million grant that will go toward the construction. The old stations are on Philo Road and North Lincoln Avenue. The new Philo Road station will be built across the street; North Lincoln will have a new destination between Goodwin and Bradley Avenues.

(Springfield-jm) – Women from some racial and ethnic minority groups are more likely to have negative health care experiences during pregnancy and delivery affecting quality of care and health outcomes. Mark Richardson reports…

(Champaign County-jm) – One person is dead following a crash on Illinois Route 130 south of Philo. Champaign County Coroner Duane Northrup identified the victim as 30 year old Suzanne Ayers of Sidney. The crash happened at the intersection with County Road 700 North. Ayers was taken to an area hospital and was later pronounced dead. State Police are still investigating.

Today’s WPXN business of the day is Houston Plumbing Heating & Cooling. Today is National Tune Up day and Fall is a perfect time to get your furnace tuned up. Houston Plumbing Heating & Cooling General Manager Lisa Pearman, talks about why it's important.

She says now is the perfect time for a tune up.

Houston Plumbing Heating & Cooling General Manager Lisa Pearman

You can hear the full interview over the noon hour

(Springfield-jm) – Every man, woman and child in Illinois is on the hook for $37,000 for the state’s unfunded public pension liabilities, according to a new report. The seventh annual American Legislative Exchange Council's "Unaccountable and Unaffordable" report on public pension liabilities pegs the amount of debt across the nation at nearly $7 trillion. Illinois comes in second to last. Illinois also came in second worst for overall unfunded liability and funding ratio. While the Illinois Auditor General puts Illinois’ five state-run public sector pension unfunded obligations at $140 billion. Illinois spends $1 out of every $5 it collects in taxes for pensions.

(Springfield-jm) – Last week, Illinois State Police released details on the firearms registry as part of the new assault weapons ban. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City shares some of the details of the registry…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Urbana-jm) – The University of Illinois Police Department is warning the community about a string of sexual extortion cases last week. Officials said that on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, the UIPD received a report each day of students communicating with someone on Instagram and the conversation becoming sexual. In one instance, the student sent intimate photos of themselves; the other two were invited to a video call to engage in sex acts.After the photos were sent and the video calls ended, officials said the offenders then demanded money from the students, threatening to post the content on public social media platforms or send it to their social media contacts.

(Savoy-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after a Subway restaurant in Savoy was robbed at gunpoint Thursday night. The Sheriff’s Office said on Facebook that at approximately 8:41 p.m., deputies responded to the restaurant on South Dunlap Avenue for a report of an armed robbery. Upon arrival, deputies learned a man entered the restaurant, brandished a gun and demanded money from the employee. He then left the restaurant and ran northwest; deputies were unable to find him during a search of the area. The suspect is described as being Black and in his early 20s. He was wearing a black hoodie, dark colored pants, a facemask and gloves.

(Urbana–jc)  Explaining what hospice is and the services provided. O-S-F’s Tim Ditman…

WPXN News notes…

The City of Paxton will hold brush pickup starting today and running through Friday in the city.

Parkland College Career and Technical Education will host a free 3D modeling for 3D print on Saturday, September 30th from 9-1.

(Springfield-jm) – Areas of Illinois impacted by recent severe storms and flooding now have until October 31 to file individual and business tax returns. The move is a delay for those affected from storms that started on June 29. The Internal Revenue Service said the recent Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster declaration allowed for the delayed filings. The IRS will also waive the usual fees and requests for copies of previously filed tax returns for affected taxpayers.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Senate Republicans are pushing for new regulations to protect minors from harmful consequences of social media addiction. Kids are accessing technology at younger ages. Whether it's picking up your cell phone to play games or using an iPad for school, they are likely spending a significant amount of time online. Companies could be required to identify the purpose for their website, how it uses children's personal information and potential risks of using social media. Although, some are worried the plan could lead to unintended consequences for any business operating on the internet. TechNet, which represents nearly 100 innovative companies, argues that this bill contains vague requirements that provide little or no clarity on compliance with a broad impact.

(Springfield-jm) – Deer hunting season is fast approaching and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is reminding about tree stand safety. During the 2022 hunting season, there were 10 hunting incidents involving tree stands. Spokesperson Hannah Brewer says in all 10 of those incidents not a single person was wearing a fall arrest system…

Illinois Department of Natural Resources Spokesperson Hannah Brewer. Brewer says you should be comfortable with the fall arrest system, make sure it fits and that all the parts are working properly.

(Rantoul-jm) – The Rantoul Police Department responded to a three-vehicle accident on Thursday that also involved a pedestrian being hit. The accident happened at the intersection of Champaign Avenue and Frederick Street just after noon. Police officials said a truck turning left at the intersection was hit by a car heading straight from the opposite direction. As a result, the truck hit a pedestrian and another car, which was stopped while facing south. The driver of one of the vehicles and the pedestrian were taken to the hospital. All three vehicles had to be towed from the scene and the truck driver was given a traffic ticket, officials added.

(Paxton–jc) The look of downtown Paxton continues to see upgrades and improvement with the downtown Streetscape program and Tax Increment Financing district. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says nearly 2 dozen businesses have made improvements with more on the way…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold.

CHAMPAIGN – In order to complete a pavement patch at 12 Main Street, Illinois American Water and Shaw Brothers will be closing the eastbound lane of Main Street between Neil Street and Fremont Street. The closure will begin on Monday, September 25, and will reopen by Friday, September 29, 2023. During the closure, eastbound traffic will not be allowed between Neil and Fremont. However, the westbound lane will remain open and access will be maintained to all properties.

(Paxton–jc)  –  When is the best time of year to plant grass? There are two main times of the year, says Paxton Hardware and Rental Owner Scott Allen. Allen says the Spring and the fall…

Paxton Hardware and Rental Owner Scott Allen. You can hear more on the subject with Scott Allen on Saturday morning at 7-30am with “Scott’s Tips for Success.”

(Paxton–jc)  – Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is the Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce. The local chamber is active in supporting and promoting business, consumer traffic and the image of the city. Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce Vice President Dawn Stack says the current board is very active to benefit the city and its residents…

She says the 5th annual Wine and Chocolate Walk is set for October 7th and brings new people and locals to businesses in the city…

Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce Vice President Dawn Stack. The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois has the second highest public sector pension liability per capita, according to the American Legislative Exchange Council. The group reviewed the total amount of pension debt per state and found behind only Alaska's $46,000 each person owes for pensions, Illinois is second worse with each Illinoisans on the hook for nearly $37,000. Nationwide, pension debt totals nearly $7 trillion, or around $21,000 per person.

(Springfield-jm) – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is extending and re-designating Venezuela for temporary protected status over the next 18 months. Governor JB Pritzker said that this will help thousands of migrants who have arrived in Illinois over the last year who can also receive work permits within 30 days. This comes less than a month after Pritzker, Senator Dick Durbin, and a coalition of business leaders called on President Joe Biden to step in. More than 13,000 asylum seekers have been sent to Chicago over the past year, but most have struggled to obtain work permits.

(Springfield-jm) – The state is seeking nominations for outstanding teachers. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Urbana-jm) – Brian Williams, former anchor of MSNBC's The 11th Hour with Brian Williams and NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams, will be on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus for a conversation about the evolution of broadcast news in America on Monday, October 23, 7-8 p.m. The free event is open to the public at the University of Illinois College of Media. Attendees may join the event at the Beckman Institute Auditorium.

(Paxton–jc) An event for Downs Syndrome Awareness is set for Sunday at the Paxton Buckley Loda track at the school on the west side of Paxton. Organizer Darla Schall says the eventis for families and the community…

Paxton Down’s Syndrome Awareness Walk Spokesperson Darla Schall.

(Champaign-jm) – A man who shot and killed someone at the Champaign American Legion in 2021 has been sentenced to 75 years in prison. Davucci Craig of Champaign showed up on the afternoon of July 2, 2021 to the Legion and killed Kieshaun Thatch, 17, a nephew of David Dalton. Dalton is the person the crowd at the Legion was honoring after he was killed in a June 20 shooting. No one has been arrested for Dalton's shooting death.

(Washington-jm) – More milk production and slightly lower prices---that's the forecast for 2024. Gary Crawford reports…

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

Parkland College’s Career and Technical Education will host two free career-interest workshops today from 9-12:30.

The Ford County Public Health Department will hold a flu clinic this afternoon from 2-4 pm at the Ford County Public Health Department in Paxton.

The Buckley St. John Lutheran School will host the Fall church and school picnic this evening from 3-7pm. Games for the kids, inflatables, a food stand and more will be available. 

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting Loda Methodist Men on Saturday from 10-2.

The 55th annual Clinton Apple n Pork Festival will take place Saturday and Sunday from 9-5 both days.

(Springfield-jm) – The intersection of Illinois’ Firearm Owner’s Identification card and the Freedom of Information Act was the focus of an Illinois Supreme Court case heard this week. The case stems from two people requesting public records regarding why their FOID cards, a state-issued identification required in Illinois to own or buy firearms and ammunition, were either revoked or suspended. The plaintiffs’ FOIA requests to Illinois State Police were denied. After challenges, the case made it to the Illinois Supreme Court. Illinois State Police attorney Valerie Quinn said that they can’t release such personal information through FOIA and the proper way to request such information is through the Firearms Services Bureau. Quinn said one reason FOID card information is protected is because of previous cases where news media attempted FOIA requests to get all FOID card data was blocked.

(Washington-jm) – The Agriculture Secretary discussed the potential of climate smart markets and innovations to provide new opportunities for producers around the world. Rod Bain reports…

(Manteno-jm) – A Chinese-linked electric vehicle battery manufacturing getting Illinois and federal tax credits to set up a facility in Kankakee County is raising red flags for some. Earlier this month, Governor J.B. Pritzker joined local officials in Manteno to announce the Chinese company Gotion is bringing a new factory to Illinois. Wirepoints founder Mark Glennon said the $536 million in tax credits for Gotion does not include federal tax credits as part of the Inflation Reduction Act.  Others have raised concerns around the company’s ties to the Chinese government, which is considered an adversary to the United States. Several Illinois House Republicans said they would have never voted for the Reinventing Electric Vehicles state tax credit if they knew it would be used to give more than half-a-billion in tax incentives to a Chinese-linked company.

(GIbson City–jc)  A Holocaust exhibit continues to bring in area school children and the public to an area Church in Gibson City. The “Courage to Remember” exhibit will remain at the American Lutheran Church in Gibson City until September 29th. Retired University of Illinois-Springfield Teacher Brian Kahn says the exhibit brings history and information about the holocaust to those who attend…

Retired University of Illinois-Springfield Teacher Brian Kahn. The exhibit is open to school groups Monday through Friday from Noon until 4pm. The general public can stop by after 4pm each day. After Friday September 29th, the Holocaust exhibit will be heading to the Vermilion County Museum in Danville for another showing. 

(Champaign County-jm) – Champaign County coroner Duane Northrup is resigning from the coroner's office after nearly 20 years of service. Northrup will become the new facilities director for the Mahomet-Seymour School District. There is no final date yet as to when Northrup will officially leave the coroner's office. The next election is in November 2024.

(GIlman–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is The Gathering in Gilman

The Gathering is a variety store that has everything from clothes, arts and crafts, one-of-a kind items to candles, a cafe and fudge. The business started with a group of ladies going to craft shows, 

Jody from the Gathering talks about a cafe that offers daily specials, a wide variety of coffees and fudge…

Jody from The Gathering in Gilman. Their final Junk in the Trunk for the season is set for Saturday September 30th from 9am until 2pm. Holiday events are also coming soon to the Gathering in Gilman.
The Gathering in Gilman is the WPXN Business of the Day, today.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J.B. Pritzker joined a Clinton Foundation panel to discuss how he has addressed the issue of access to abortion after last year's U.S. Supreme Court decision put the issue back to the states. In June 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to return the issue of regulating abortion back to the states led to multiple states, including several neighboring Illinois, restricting the procedure. Since then, Illinois has seen an increase of out-of-state patients coming to the Land of Lincoln for the procedure. Pritzker said he believes the issue is still very important in the next election. Pritzker joined Hillary Clinton and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer on stage during a panel discussion for the Clinton Foundation. In January, Pritzker approved House Bill 4664, which aims to protect people seeking abortions, assisted reproduction and gender reassignment procedures in Illinois while expanding who can perform these procedures. There was also House Bill 3326 signed into law, which limits other states' ability to access automatic license plate reader data in Illinois to punish someone from out of state seeking an abortion in Illinois. Among other policies in Illinois, the state no longer requires parental notification for a minor to terminate a pregnancy. Those opposed to abortion criticize Illinois' policies as being too extreme.  As Illinois continues to have some of the least restrictive abortion laws in the nation, 14 states voted to outlaw most abortions following the Supreme Court's decision.

(Washington-jm) – The Agriculture Secretary recognizes the role of corporations among the many groups of partners within USDA’s Partnerships for Climate Smart Commodity program. Rod Bain reports…

(Danville-jm) – A Prophetstown, Illinois, man, Philip J. Buyno pleaded guilty to attempting to use fire to damage a building used in interstate commerce. Sentencing for Buyno is scheduled for February 5, 2024, at the U.S. Federal Courthouse in Urbana. In court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Eric I. Long, Buyno admitted that, on May 20, 2023, he brought several containers filled with gasoline with him and used his car to breach the front entrance to a commercial building at 600 N. Logan Avenue in Danville for the purpose of burning it down before it could be used as a reproductive health clinic. Buyno has been in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service since May 2023, where he remains pending sentencing. Buyno faces statutory penalties of a minimum five years up to twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, three years of supervised release, and restitution for the damage caused to the building.

(Springfield-jm) – Driver Services Facilities around the state changed their hours of operation earlier this month. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City reminds about the change…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – A 23-year-old man from Champaign was killed Tuesday night in a crash after law enforcement officials said he tried to flee from Champaign County Sheriff’s deputies. The crash happened at the intersection of Springfield Avenue and Staley Road around 8:35 p.m. Champaign Police said the car ran through a red light and collided with another car. The car that ran the red light then left the road and hit a tree. Champaign firefighters were called to extricate the driver from that car, after which he was taken to an area hospital. The man later died. The people inside the second car involved were not hurt.

(Urbana–jc)  Making good food choices is a key to a healthy life style. Key food choices for diabetics is even harder to keep a healthy life style. O-S-F’s Tim Ditman has more…

(Springfield-jm) – As NFL football season returns so does fantasy football and Illinoisans are playing it at an average of 2,268 monthly searches for 100,000 residents, which is the 9th highest in the nation, Minnesota finished first.

(Springfield-jm) – Deer hunting season is fast approaching and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is reminding about tree stand safety. During the 2022 hunting season, there were 10 hunting incidents involving tree stands. Spokesperson Hannah Brewer says in all 10 of those incidents not a single person was wearing a fall arrest system…

Illinois Department of Natural Resources Spokesperson Hannah Brewer. Brewer says they also recommend using a lifeline or safety rope to help hunters going up and down from the stand.

(Undated-jm) – Emergency crews around Ford County were busy Tuesday evening. Just before 5:30 pm Roberts Melvin firefighters were called to a single vehicle rollover accident on 900 east between 1200 and 1400 north. Then around 7pm Paxton firefighters were called to a single vehicle rollover on 500 east 1600 north. 

(Paxton–jc)  The downtown area of Paxton continues to get upgrades with the brick and mortar businesses in the area. A new business in the Cadillac to the renovation of the former bowling alley property near the post office and a new sound system for the downtown area are a few new positives for the city.

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold provides the latest for the city…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Gibson City-jm) –  The Ford County Public Health Department will be holding a drug takeback day this Friday. The takeback day will take place from 12-2 at the Moyer District Library in Gibson City. It’s part of September’s National Recovery Month. Free NARCAN kits will also be available. 

(Paxton–jc)  A pop up pumpkin patch is coming to downtown Paxton. The Paxton Main Street Group is placing the patch in the former bowling alley property that is being renovated, says Paxton Main Street Group spokesperson Donna Pepper…

Paxton Main Street Group Spokesperson Donna Pepper. They are also set to bring a fall vendor and pumpkin event to the city on Saturday October 14th. 

(Paxton–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Paxton Hardware and Rental. Owner Scott Allen says this time of year is perfect for a lawn grass project…

Owner Scott Allen also says they have close out sale prices on some paint lines…

Paxton Hardware and Rental Owner Scott Allen. 

(Springfield-jm) – Monday kicked off National Child Passenger Safety Week and the Illinois Department of Transportation is urging parents to double check that their safety seats are properly installed. The state will also be doing seat check events throughout Illinois this week.

(Springfield-jm) – This week is also Railroad Safety Week in Illinois. Canadian National Railroad Inspector Charlie Mathewson has some safety tips around railroads…

Canadian National Railroad Inspector Charlie Mathewson.

(Savoy-jm) – Willard Airport officials are pushing back against a proposal that would see operational control of the airport transfer from the University of Illinois to the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District. The suggestion was made during a regular MTD board meeting last month. Trustee Bruce Hannon introduced the idea, saying the University of Illinois isn’t running the airport as a transportation service would, and he wants to see Willard become the community staple he said it once was. MTD wants more people to fly out of Willard instead of going to Indianapolis or Chicago, and they believe if they were to operate it, they could make it happen. Airport officials say they were caught off guard by the comments and don’t plan on changing ownership.

(Gibson City-jm) – Harvest season is starting to get underway around central Illinois. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City has these safety tips…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Urbana-jm) – Undergraduate student enrollment at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus has broken records this year, with 8,325 freshman admitted this year. Three out of 4 of the incoming freshmen, or 6,150, are from Illinois households. This year’s U of I freshmen come from 88 out of Illinois’ 102 counties. Minority representation in this year’s freshman class has increased or stayed steady over last year. Around 1,251 freshmen self-identify as Hispanic, up from 1,066 in 2022. Around 449 self-identify as African American, up slightly from 444 in 2022. And 348 self-identify as multi-race.

(Paxton–jc)  –  The first event at The Cadillac in downtown Paxton is coming soon. The Cadillac event center is set to open on September 29th says The Cadillac spokesperson Alan Meyer…

The Cadillac in Paxton Spokesperson Alan Meyer. The first Gina Miles concert set for Saturday October 28th sold out very quickly and organizers have offered a second concert for Sunday October 29th. Both performances will be live at The Cadillac in downtown Paxton.  Tickets available on line,

WPXN News Notes this week…

Kankakee Community College will host a Fall Job Fair on Thursday from 9 a.m. - noon in the KCC College Center.

The Ford County Public Health Department will hold a flu clinic on Thursday from 2-4 pm at the Moyer District Library in Gibson City.

(Springfield-jm) – With the end of cash bail now law in Illinois, the back and forth over how it affects victims of crime continues. The state’s Pretrial Fairness Act is the first in the nation to end money bond statewide. Advocates say people are innocent until proven guilty and shouldn’t have to languish behind bars pending trial because they can’t afford to bail out.  First-time criminal defendants facing lower-level non-violent criminal charges will be processed and released from jail. Those facing more serious charges could be held pretrial without money bond. Republicans argue it could affect restitution to victims.

(Springfield-jm) – Local reaction is coming in following the first day of the elimination of cash bail in Illinois. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Urbana-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is seeking assistance from the public regarding a burglary. On July 2, at approximately 11:53 p.m., a female came into the University of Illinois Veterinary Medicine Small Animal Clinic with an injured animal. The female left the building and returned moments later with a large bag. The female was then observed on camera stealing a donation box for the clinic that contained cash donations. The female placed the donation box in her bag and left the clinic. The suspect was described as a black female, heavy build, with long black hair. The female has a nose ring, and a tattoo on her left arm.

(Rantoul-jm) – Habitat for Humanity set another family up for success over the weekend with their 127th home dedication in Champaign County. This year, Habitat volunteers had the chance to return to Rantoul for the first time in a decade for construction.

(Paxton–jc)  The 20-23 Paxton Swine and Dine is in the books for this year. Another great event was held in the downtown area of Paxton. The Paxton Swine and Dine group is now preparing for next year, with getting a great band on stage, says Paxton Swine and Dine Spokesperson Alan Meyer…

Paxton Swine and Dine Spokesperson Alan Meyer.

(Watseka-jm) – A special groundbreaking event was held in Watseka Sunday. Gold Star Military Families, local supporters, friends, and American Legion members joined local officials in a ceremonial groundbreaking at Legion Park.  It was the actual start of bringing a Gold Star Memorial Monument to Iroquois County—one of just two such monuments in Illinois. The granite-stone structure will be at the entrance to Legion Park. 

(Washington-jm) – Are current trends of shrinking cattle supplies and higher prices going to continue in 2024? Gary Crawford reports…

(Paxton–jc) We are in the final days of summer, but Autumn is a time for pumpkins, apples, vendors and more in Paxton in October. The Paxton Main Street Group is hosting a new event called Paxton’s Fall Event and Vendor Show on Saturday October 14th. The event runs from 9am to 4pm. Paxton Main Street Group Executive Director Donna Pepper says the day will be full of activities and vendors…

Paxton Main Street Group Executive Director Donna Pepper.

(Paxton–jc)--  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Central Illinois Disposal and Recycling of Paxton.  The Gene May family has served the area since 1979. May says the business continues to serve a wide area of East Central Illinois…

Gene May says the company also offers roll-off containers to collect waste from cleaning out the garage at a home, or for a major construction project.  May says they offer several sizes of roll-offs…

Central Illinois Disposal and Recycling of Paxton Owner Gene May.

(Springfield-jm) – With Illinois State Police saying they’ve filed emergency rules for Illinois’ gun and magazine ban registry, the law still faces legal challenges in federal and state court. A ruling on the Second Amendment challenges is pending out of the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. A separate case challenging the law on vagueness grounds is in the Southern District of Illinois federal court next month. Despite that, Illinois State Police announced Monday they’ve filed rules for the gun registry that opens October 1 through the state’s Firearm Owner ID card portal. Critics have claimed the measure will only increase the crime rate in Chicago and throughout the state. Advocates for the Pretrial Fairness Act say criminal defendants are innocent until proven guilty and shouldn't have to languish behind bars pending trial simply for not being able to afford a money bond.

(Springfield-jm) – Republicans and law enforcement around the state continue to criticize the Safe-T Act including the provision that eliminates cash bail that went into effect yesterday. One of those is 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Urbana-jm) – University of Illinois Police are investigating after a female student was drugged at a fraternity party over the weekend. Officials said this incident is considered an aggravated assault, and it was reported to them at 1:30 a.m. on Sunday. The student was at a fraternity located at Gregory Drive and Euclid Street when she was handed two open drinks by other party attendees. Within minutes of consuming the drinks, officials said she began to feel physical effects that led her to believe a substance other than alcohol had been added to the drink. The student went home with friends and called police, after which she went to the hospital in an ambulance for medical evaluation.

(Watseka-jm) – Assistant Iroquois County States Attorney Michael Quinlan has announced that he will be running for Iroquois County states attorney in 2024. Current Iroquois County States Attorney James Devine has announced he will be retiring at the end of his current term and will not seek re-election in 2024. He has worked in the Iroquois County States Attorney’s Office since March of 2022. Quinlan previously worked in the states attorneys offices of Grundy, Kankakee, and LaSalle counties.

(Cissna Park–jc)  –  The Pumpkins in the park event is returning to Cissna Park in early October. The event is sponsored by the Cissna Park Development Board and the Cissna Park F F A.  FFA Advisor Jeff Clifton says the two groups are glad to have this community event…

Cissna Park F F A Advisor Jeff Clifton.

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton native and The Voice winner Gina Miles will be returning to Paxton next month. Miles will perform at The Cadillac in downtown Paxton on October 28th and 29th. Tickets for the 28th are sold out however, tickets for the 29th are on sale now at the cadillac events dot com.

(Washington-jm) – Hog producers could see some better prices next year. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Public Health has endorsed the recommendation by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the newly FDA-approved COVID-19 shots. The federal agencies have given the green light for updated vaccines developed by Moderna and Pfizer that target the currently circulating strains of the virus. Health officials recommend that anyone over the age of 6 months should get the shot, which is designed to offer additional protection against the current variants.

(Springfield-jm) – Today begins the end of money bond in the state of Illinois and views vary on whether it will improve the state’s criminal justice system. The Pretrial Fairness Act was supposed to end cash bail January 1, but was delayed by legal challenges from dozens of state’s attorneys from across Illinois. The Illinois Supreme Court upheld the law two months ago and set September 18 for the day it would go into effect. Suspects of more serious and violent crime can be held pending trial can be held pretrial under provisions of the Pretrial Fairness Act.

(Springfield-jm) – This is Suicide Prevention Month and the Illinois Department of Human Services is reminding those struggling about an important resource. The 9-8-8 suicide and crisis lifeline helps to save lives by providing support to anyone feeling suicidal or battling PTSD, self harm and more says Spokesperson Patrick Laughlin…

Illinois Department of Human Services Spokesperson Patrick Laughlin. Callers will be directed to local resources if appropriate. If you or someone you know is in emotional distress, call or text 9-8-8 or visit: 988 lifeline dot org to chat online.

(Rantoul-jm) – The Rantoul Police Department wants to make the community a little safer and they are giving people a more active role in making it happen. The department launched an online traffic complaint form to report any traffic violation at any time of day. People can attach videos or photos to add context, and all reporting is confidential. The department said it’s a way for them to have extra eyes in areas where people are concerned.

(Urbana-jm) – Fire officials say a hot tub was the cause of a fire near Urbana Thursday. Investigators determined the homeowner had used the hot tub that morning before leaving the home. The hot tub started a fire destroying the home.

(Decatur-jm) – The state is expanding mental health services to farmers across the state. It started out as a pilot program in just six Illinois counties but Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello says farmers in all 102 counties now have access to services…

Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello.

(Hoopeston-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that Route 9 between Second Avenue and Market Street in Hoopeston will close today. The closure is necessary for CSX Transportation to replace its crossing and is expected to last through Friday.

(Champaign-jm) – The United Way of Champaign County is celebrating 100 years, and the community is responding in a big way. To celebrate the milestone and history behind the group, United Way announced a $4 million goal for an anniversary endowment. In eight months, they surpassed that goal and wanted another challenge. Now, they’re raising the goal to $6 million, with over $5 million raised already.

(Washington-jm) – A new report has some good news for food shoppers. Gary Crawford reports…

(Paxton–jc)  Pride in Paxton is the WPXN Business of the Day today. The local volunteer civic and community group recently lost their long time director in Terri Hancock, but the group is continuing the focus of promoting the city of Paxton. New Director Dawn Glad says the transition has been challenging, but the projects done by Pride will continue…

Director Dawn Glad says the entire group takes a part in preparing for the November parade

Pride in Paxton Director Dawn Glad

(Springfield-jm) – A challenge to Illinois’ gun and magazine ban is back in circuit court after attorney Thomas DeVore filed a motion to reconsider. Devore's original consolidated cases where he had thousands of temporary restraining orders in place were vacated after the Illinois Supreme Court upheld the law in a different challenge. His latest filing in Effingham County provides sworn affidavits about certain exempt classes not getting firearms training.

(Springfield-jm) – After awarding almost $250 million in grants to help homeowners in need, Illinois is closing the book on pandemic-related mortgage assistance October 31. In total, the state doled out more than $246 million in grants to approximately 14,000 homeowners since April 2022, according to the Illinois Housing Authority website.

(Springfield-jm) – Whether you are making snacks to watch during a football game or cooking family dinner, the Illinois Department of Public Health is stressing the importance of food safety. Here’s the basics for preventing foodborne illness, says Public Health’s Darrah Dunlap…

Illinois Department of Public Health’s Darrah Dunlap. Dunlap says food should be tossed out if it’s been sitting out longer than two hours. If it’s hot outside, food should only be out for one hour.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Police Department has confirmed that their response to an apartment complex on Friday is because shots were fired there. Champaign Police say officers were dispatched to the Country Brook Apartments just before 2 p.m. When they arrived, officers found evidence of gunfire, including damage to a building.

(Undated-jm) – On Friday, FEMA approved Illinois’ request for 19 counties to receive Public Assistance following the severe storms and flooding event on June 29 – July 2, 2023. With this addition, federal funding is now available to state, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work, debris removal and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the disaster in Christian, Clark, Coles, Cumberland, DeWitt, Douglas, Edgar, Hancock, Macon, McDonough, Monroe, Morgan, Moultrie, Pike, Sangamon, Scott, Vermillion, Warren and Washington counties.

(Springfield-jm) – The cash bail provision of the Safe-T Act takes effect today in Illinois. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City explains why he disagrees with the legislation…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – State Senator Paul Faraci is encouraging all eligible people to apply to this year’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program to help with utility costs. Applications will be accepted starting October 2 through August 15, 2024. Energy bill assistance offered through the Help Illinois Families Program in program year 2023 will provide $237 million to eligible families to assist with natural gas, propane and electricity bills. Last year’s LIHEAP funding — which was available from September 2022 through May 2023 — provided assistance to a record number of 311,214 households. Beginning October 2, eligible families can apply to this year’s program by visiting HelpIllinoisFamilies.com or by visiting their local agency.

(Washington-jm) – An annual awareness campaign focused on farm safety and health centers this year on the message of the value of those working on the farm and keeping them safe. Rod Bain reports…

WPXN News Notes…

The Ford County Public Health Department will hold a flu clinic today from 9-11 at Gibson City Telecare.

(Springfield-jm) – Despite polling data showing voters increasingly concerned about President Joe Biden’s fitness in advanced age, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is standing by the incumbent. A recent CNN poll shows more than half of Democrats question Biden’s fitness. The 80-year-old is running for a second term. At an unrelated event, Governor J.B. Pritzker was asked about the poll and said Biden’s age brings experience, claiming Biden has done more in two and a half years than some Presidents have done in eight years. Recent data from The Center Square Voters' Voice Poll shows 44% of respondents have inflation as their top issue, the highest percentage of any listed. As to the candidates, matchups between Biden and former President Donald Trump and Biden and Florida Governor Ron Desantis are neck and neck, according to the same polling.

(Springfield-jm) – Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton is reflecting on her recent trip to Japan to promote Illinois. Lieutenant Governor Stratton led a delegation to the Midwest-US-Japan Association Conference. She told company leaders she met with that there is no better time to do business in Illinois…

Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. Stratton says Japanese companies seem to recognize that Illinois has a skilled workforce as well. There are already more than one thousand Japanese companies with a presence in Illinois.

(Rantoul-jm) – Rantoul Village Administrator Scott Eisenhauer could avoid going to trial for misdemeanor domestic battery if he completes a special second chance program. Eisenhauer was arrested in June after police said that during an argument, he pushed his wife, pulled her hair and tried to prevent her from calling 9-1-1. He pleaded not guilty. Eisenhauer is now enrolled in a second chance program Champaign County offers. If he pays a fine, completes an online course and logs 15 hours of community service, the case against him will be dismissed.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign County Coroner’s Office has released the identity of a woman who was killed in a hit-and-run pedestrian crash on Interstate 72. Coroner Duane Northrup said the woman was identified as Colleen Keigher of Champaign. Preliminary information indicates that Keigher was walking along Interstate 72 near Champaign when she was hit and killed by a car. Keigher attended Paxton Buckley Loda school. The car fled the scene. An autopsy is scheduled for later today. 

(Paxton–jc)  A new fall Vendor event is coming to the city of Paxton in October. It is the first annual Paxton Fall Gathering and Vendor Show on Saturday October 14th. Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper says the location is next to the post office in downtown Paxton…

Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper.

(Urbana-jm) – Authorities in Urbana are investigating after they said two groups of people exchanged gunfire Thursday afternoon. Officials with the Urbana Police Department said the shots were fired just before 3 p.m. in the area of Eads Street and North Romine Street. There were no reported injuries or property damage. 

The preliminary investigation suggested that two groups, both on foot, were shooting at each other. During the shooting, one group fled west across Wright Street and onto Grove Street, near Booker T. Washington School. 

(Springfield-jm) – Conditions are dry in some areas of Illinois and the state climatologist says that will have a different impact this fall than the drought did earlier this summer. Most of southern Illinois has received plenty of rain and is in pretty good shape, but the rest of the state is at or near drought levels. The worst spots are in western and northwestern Illinois. State Climatologist Trent Ford says one of the biggest concerns right now is low river levels…

State Climatologist Trent Ford. Ford says this could lead to water so low that barge traffic will be restricted. Another worry is an increased risk for fires as hot harvest machinery moves through dry crops.

(Washington-jm) – What are the price prospects for this upcoming soybean crop? Gary Crawford reports…

(Paxton—jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is the PaxtonMasonic Lodge 416. The local group continues to help with area projects and are set for a grand prize giveaway for their 4th annual, “Get out of Dodge” fundraisers. Paxton Masonic Lodge Spokesperson Jim Shearl talks about the grand prize to be given away tomorrow afternoon at 2pm

He talks about the history of the service organization…

Paxton Masonic Lodge Spokesperson Jim Shearl

You can hear more about the local masons group over the noon hour today.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office is stressing the importance of campus fire safety. September and October are the peak months for fires on and off college campuses. Fire Marshal Spokesperson J-C Fultz says no matter where a student lives, they must have a working smoke detector and know how they would escape if a fire broke out. Another tip…

State Fire Marshal Spokesperson J-C Fultz. The Center for Campus Fire Safety reports that between January 2000 and April 2022, 94 fatal fires occurred on college campuses, greek housing, or nearby off-campus housing, resulting in 134 deaths, seven people have died in Illinois campus fires since 2000.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana couple lost everything in a house fire on Thursday. The fire happened at High Cross Road between Curtis and Windsor Roads. The two-story garage, with a home on top, was completely destroyed. Fire personnel from Philo, Savoy, Homer, St. Joseph, Tolono, Pesotum, Broadlands and Villa Grove also responded to the fire.

(Urbana-jm) – Urbana Police have arrested a new suspect in the investigation of a murder that happened in June. 51-year-old Eddie Williams was shot to death on June 30 of this year. The shooting happened around 3:45 p.m. that day in the area of Silver and Fletcher Streets; authorities found Williams dead at the scene from a gunshot wound to the neck. During a court-authorized search, police discovered a handgun in the apartment of convicted felon Eric Nash. They arrested Nash for unlawful use of a weapon by a felon, but officers could not confirm whether the gun was used in Williams’ murder. Upon further investigation, Urbana Police suspected Sidney A. Smith, 45 of Urbana, in reference to the homicide. On Wednesday, officers obtained an arrest warrant with a bond amount of $4 million. Detectives found him at the Champaign County Courthouse later that day, where he was attending court on an unrelated case. Smith was arrested by law enforcement on charges of murder and unlawful use of a weapon by a felon.

(Champaign–jc)  –  Helping children feel comfortable in their home will lead to healthier and more successful times during those formative years. But it’s easier said than done, especially for non-traditional families, like when grandparents raise kids. Luckily, there are resources and best practices. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has more.

(Champaign County-jm) – Champaign-Urbana Public Health District will be holding a safety event for Child Passenger Safety Week. Every year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration partners with local communities to hold Child Passenger Safety Week, which runs from September 17–23 this year. On Monday, September 25, CUPHD will have certified child passenger safety technicians available to help parents and caregivers with proper installation and utilization of car seats for children. The event will run from 10 a.m. through 2 p.m. and the north side parking lot garage of 201 W. Kenyon Road in Champaign. No appointment is necessary.

(Springfield-jm) – Conditions are dry in some areas of Illinois and the state climatologist says that will have a different impact this fall than the drought did earlier this summer. One of the biggest concerns about the recent lack of rain is low stream levels, says State Climatologist Trent Ford. That could lead to navigation issues and restricting barge traffic…

State Climatologist Trent Ford. According to the latest U-S Drought Monitor, most of southern Illinois is ok but the rest of the state is either abnormally dry or in a moderate drought. The driest conditions are in western and northwestern Illinois.

(Washington-jm) – The Upcoming U.S. corn crop may face more than expected competition in the export market. Gary Crawford reports…

WPXN News Notes…

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank’s Foodmobile will be in Ford County today with stops in Piper City across from the community center at 9 am, Living Word Church in Roberts at 10 am, across from the Melvin convenient store at 11 am, the Gibson City city hall at noon, Elliott village hall at 1pm and Paxton Hardware and Rental at 2pm.

The Ford County Public Health Department will hold a flu clinic today from 9-11 am at the health department in Paxton.

Gibson City will hold their Friday night cruise night tonight from 6-10 pm.

Gibson City will hold their fall garage sales today and tomorrow.

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting Loda American Legion Auxiliary on Saturday from 10-2.

The 2023 Paxton Swine n Dine BBQ Contest and Festival will take place on Saturday with the kids zone opening at noon, bags tournament at 1, BBQ awards announcement at 3, car show at 5 with live music beginning at 5:30

(Springfield-jm) – New COVID-19 vaccines are now available and the Illinois Department of Public Health is recommending everyone six months and older get the shot. These latest vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer target the COVID strains that are currently circulating.

(Springfield-jm) – A total of 177 Illinois state employees have been determined to have obtained Paycheck Protection Program loans based on falsified information. That’s according to the Office of Executive Inspector General, which put the dollar amount of fraud found “so far” at $4.5 million. The report shows 132 employees in the Department of Human Services have been identified, the most of any state agency. The investigation was initiated in 2022 to examine whether employees with the state of Illinois abused the federal taxpayer-funded program.

(Springfield-jm) – This is National Senior Center Month and the State Department on Aging is urging older Illinoisans to explore their local facility. Your community senior center likely offers several activities including exercise classes, discussions, art classes, group trips and more. Department on Aging Director Paula Basta says participating at a local senior center can have many benefits…

Illinois Department on Aging Director Paula Basta. Basta says senior centers can also connect people with local resources and offer volunteer opportunities.

(Undated-jm) – Nineteen current and former United States Postal Service employees have been indicted by a federal grand jury. The individuals were charged with fraud related to the Paycheck Protection Program administered through the Small Business Administration. Among those charged: 1 is from Savoy, 3 are from Champaign and 2 are from Urbana.

(Paxton–jc)  The new owner of the Paxton Airport has been making upgrades to the property since taking over in July. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold provides some information on the airport…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Iroquois County-jm) – The Iroquois County Board praised the efforts of Robert Yergler who recently retired as the County Chief Assessor.  Board Chairman John Shure presented Yergler with a plaque, pointing out his 17 + year career.  Yergler joined the county in May of 2006.  He was re-appointed for 4-year terms through his retirement August 1, 2023. Yergler's successor, Mia McCammon, recently passed her certification examination .

(Washington-jm) – The USDA Corn Crop Forecast provides a little bit of a surprise. Gary Crawford reports…

The annual PBL Homecoming parade steps off at 6pm tonight from Paxton Buckley Loda High School and moves to the downtown area of Paxton and then back to PBL High School. 

(Paxton-dg)-The Queen has been found. Richard Arnold of Paxton won just over $21,560. for picking the correct card in the Pride in Paxton Queen of Hearts Drawing. The local group has been raising money for an extensive sound system for downtown Paxton.

(Champaign–jc) State police and Champaign County police responded to an accident along Interstate 72 near the Country Fair Drive exit in Champaign early this morning. The roadway was closed for several hours and just re-opened around 6am. No word on injuries or property damage was provided. WPXN will update this story on later news casts

(Springfield-jm) – State Public Health officials are hoping to prevent a tri-demic this fall and winter. It’s respiratory virus season, when illnesses like COVID-19, RSV and the flu are more prevalent. You can protect yourself by starting with your annual flu shot, says State Chief Medical Officer Dr Arti Barnes…

State Chief Medical Officer Dr Arti Barnes. There is also now a vaccine for RSV that is recommended for seniors 60 and older. Barnes says a new preventative treatment for RSV is available to infants under 8 months. It’s not a vaccine but rather a monoclonal antibody shot.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J.B. Pritzker has announced $449 million in tobacco bonds have been retired. The bonds represent what remained of a $1.5 billion debt associated with the Great Recession, dating back to 2010. The state traded annual payments it was due from a multi-state legal settlement agreement with various cigarette manufacturers for upfront cash from revenue bonds. The borrowed cash was used to address unpaid bills in 2010.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Police is urging drivers and farmers to be careful during the fall harvest season. Farmers need to have the required reflectors and flashing lights and they should be free of any debris, says Trooper Josh Robinson. He also advises farmers to stay as far to the right of the road as possible…

Illinois State Trooper Josh Robinson. Driver’s need to do their part as well, says Robinson, by sharing the road and being patient. He says the majority of accidents occur when a driver tries to illegally pass large farm equipment.

(Champaign County-jm) – The Champaign County Farm Bureau is looking to bring faster internet to rural areas for years to come. They are planning to build broadband infrastructure. This will help communities that don’t have access to high-speed, reliable internet. The Farm Bureau got $11 million from the county board to help start the process.

(Rantoul-jm) – Over the next six months, the Youth Center in Rantoul will be getting a $1.5 million renovation upgrade. The project is being financed by funds from the American Rescue Plan Act. The Youth Center will be closed to the public during the construction phase of the project. WPXN News will have more with village officials about the scope of the project and how long its expected to take.

(Washington-jm) – The USDA has lowered its forecast for the U.S. soybean crop. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Fair set a new attendance record this year. More than 700 thousand people visited the fair last month, enjoying the mild temperatures, daily promotions and free entertainment. State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark says another big draw was the return of the multi-purpose arena, which had a rodeo, truck and tractor pulls and monster trucks…

State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark. Clark says grandstand concert ticket sales were the second highest in the last five years with Tim McGraw and Nelly drawing crowds of over 10 thousand people.

(Grundy County-jm) – Grundy County Board Chairman Chris Balkema is throwing his hat into the ring for the 53rd District seat. Balkema made his announcement Tuesday. He is hoping to fill the seat of Senator Tom Bennett who announced he will be retiring.

(Gilman–jc)  With the 250 Million Dollars in capital investment for  Incobrassa Industries in Gilman, the area will see 40 new jobs and retain 200 others. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, and officials from Incobrassa made the announcement last Wednesday.  What are the uses of soybeans in the American diet is a question that can be answered in part by the Illinois Soybean Industry. Illinois Soybean Association Spokesperson Andrew Larson says one use is for Vegetable Oil…

Illinois Soybean Association Spokesperson Andrew Larson. The expansion will allow Incobrassa to double it’s capacity by 20-30. A 50 acre solar array is also being planned to help fuel the plant.

(Ford County-jm) – Ford County Public Health Department announces the hiring of a new Senior Services Staff Member overseeing the Senior Information Specialist or SIS program. Tracie Teske has been hired to provide information and assistance regarding services available to seniors and adults with disabilities. Tracie has been certified in SHIP counseling, (Senior Health Insurance Programs) and will be replacing Lana Sample at this position. As part of the SHIP program, Teske will help seniors navigate life’s difficult questions and choices by providing free individual counseling services, information, and referrals dedicated to educating people aged 60 and over and their caregivers about available insurance options, as well as assistance with Medicare Part D, supplements, Benefits Access Program, long term care insurance, and prescription drug coverage information.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Masonic Lodge 416 is hosting a fundraiser-giveaway on Saturday in downtown Paxton. It is the 4th annual “Get out of Dodge” Trip giveaway. Paxton Masonic Lodge Spokesperson Jim Shearl talks the grand prize…

Paxton Masonic Lodge Spokesperson Jim Shearl. Other prizes including 1 thousand dollars will be given away on Saturday afternoon at 2.  Money raised by the lodge helps fund local programs in the Paxton area. Under 40 tickets remain to be sold. 

(Champaign-jm) – In order to place a crane for maintenance work at 30 E. Main Street, Ko Fusion will close one northbound lane of Walnut Street between Taylor Street and Main Street.  The closure will occur today between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.  During the closure, northbound traffic will be reduced to one lane in the area.

(Springfield-jm) – Forecasted yields for corn and soybeans are down a bit in Illinois. Based on September 1st conditions, the forecast for corn is 198 bushels per acre says Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. The Illinois soybean yield is forecasted at 61 bushels per acre. That’s a drop of two bushels per acre compared to last year. Total production of soybeans is expected to hit 628 million bushels. That would be a decrease of seven percent from 2022 but still keeps Illinois in the top spot for soybeans.

The Paxton Buckley Loda School Board meets tonight at 6 where they are expected to approve their fiscal year 2024 budget, hear a report on 2023 summer maintenance projects, consider taking action on some grants and discuss the behavior interventionist coach job description and evaluation tool.

(Washington-jm) – Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and an associate professor from the University of Illinois were in Washington DC Tuesday, testifying before a U-S Senate committee on banning books. Secretary Giannoulias highlighted a new state law which prohibits Illinois libraries that nix certain books from receiving state funding. He was asked to respond to claims that book banning isn’t serious….

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. During her testimony, U of I professor Emily Knox pointed out that the majority of books being challenged are written by or are about racial and religious minorities, L-G-B-T-Q-I-A individuals and other diverse groups.

(Vermilion County-jm) – The visitation for Former State Representative Bill Black has been scheduled for 4 to 7 PM; Friday, September 15th; at Sunset Funeral Home. A private funeral will be held on Saturday. Black passed away over the weekend following a short illness. Black was a former Assistant Minority Leader for Republicans when he served in the Illinois House of Representatives and served in the Illinois General Assembly from 1986 to 2010. Bill Black was 81.

(Gibson City–jc)  Health care costs for illegal immigrants adds up to a big number for Illinois taxpayers. 53rd district State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City talks about the way some programs are run by Illinois Governor J B Pritzker…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – An East Central Illinois family pleaded guilty to kidnapping and forced labor. Lorenza Domingo-Castaneda, a Guatemalan national, pleaded guilty on September 8 in the Central District of Illinois to three counts of forced labor and two counts of conspiracy to commit forced labor. On August 18, codefendant Catarina Domingo-Juan also pleaded guilty to three counts of forced labor and two counts of conspiracy to commit forced labor A third codefendant, Domingo Francisco-Juan previously pleaded guilty on August 30 to forced labor, conspiracy to commit forced labor, kidnapping and conspiracy to commit kidnapping. According to court documents, the defendants, who are siblings, conspired to bring two minor victims from Guatemala to the United States to work in their homes between December 2015 and March 2021. In accordance with the plea agreements, the defendants face penalties of 20 years up to life in prison.

(Paxton–jc)  –  The 20-23 Paxton Swine and Dine is set to start at 5am on Saturday morning in downtown Paxton. Swine and Dine Spokesperson Alan Meyer says the delicious smells of barbeque start at 5am, events throughout the day and at 9pm its the national act Parmalee…

Paxton Swine and Dine Event Spokesperson Alan Meyer. WPXN will be broadcasting live in the downtown area of Paxton with our On the Sidelines Show from 7am to 8am

(Champaign-jm) – Enrollment of first-year freshmen at University of Illinois System universities reached a record level of 13,231 this fall, as did total system enrollment of 60,013 undergraduate students. Numbers are based on enrollment on the 10th day of classes at the U of I System’s universities in Urbana-Champaign, Chicago and Springfield. 

(Springfield-jm) – Forecasted yields for corn and soybeans are down a bit in Illinois. The September crop production is out, and Statistician Mark Schleusener has the forecast for the Illinois soybean crop…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. The corn yield is expected to be 198 bushels per acre, a decline of 16 bushels per acre compared to last year. Still, Illinois takes the number two spot for corn production, second only to Iowa.

(Washington-jm) – Illinois U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth will be absent from the Senate in the coming days after testing positive for COVID-19. She is the latest senator to test positive for the virus with U.S. Senator Dick Durbin doing so in recent weeks. The news means that Senate Democrats will be down a vote this week as they begin consideration on the first batch of spending bills.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Police is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Statewide Terrorism and Intelligence Center. The “STIC” as it’s called, was created in 2003 in response to the 9-11 terrorist attacks. It’s one of 80 fusion centers across the country, says Chief Intelligence Officer Aaron Kustermann (coosterman)...

Illinois State Police Chief Intelligence Officer Aaron Kustermann. Kusterman says that effort is supported by analysts in the watch center of the STIC. Then there is the public safety component, which aims to get information about threats or emergencies to the proper local or national authorities. The STIC is open around the clock, 365 days a year.

(Gibson City-jm) – Gibson City police have released their recent activity report. On the 8th, Clinton Schultz of Gibson City was cited for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident, reckless driving and leaving the scene of an accident with damage.

(Paxton-jm) – Ford County Clerk and Recorder Amy Frederick is inviting the public to attend a demonstration of the new voting machines. The demonstration open house will take place on Thursday from 2-4 pm at the Ford County Courthouse.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man has been arrested following an investigation into a homicide on West Springfield Avenue. On August 25, William Wesley was arrested in Atlanta, Georgia for his involvement in this incident. Wesley is now in the custody of the Champaign County Correctional Center awaiting arraignment on murder charges. Champaign Police were dispatched to the 2500 block of West Springfield Avenue at 7:06 p.m. on July 3, 2023, for a report of a shooting with injuries. On-scene, officers located 27-year-old Marcus Catchings of Champaign unresponsive inside an apartment from an apparent gunshot wound. Catchings was pronounced deceased on the scene.

(Springfield-jm) – Despite a dry week, crop conditions held steady for the most part. This past week was slightly warmer and definitely drier than normal. Average statewide topsoil moisture dropped to 22 percent very short, 43 percent short and 35 percent adequate. Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener says 87 percent of corn acres have reached the dent stage…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. 97 percent of soybeans are setting pods and 27 percent of acres are dropping leaves. The third cutting of alfalfa hay is now 85 percent complete.

(Undated-jm) – In meeting notes for around the area tonight…the Rantoul village board will consider a construction loan for the Youth Center Renovation, consider a contract for flock safety cameras and approve the safe routes to school plan for Eater Jr High. The Paxton city council will hear a discussion on the 120 water program, consider a new pump for the Chestnut street lift station and consider late water and sewer bill procedures. In St. Joseph tonight, village leaders will continue discussing the wastewater treatment plant expansion.

(Washington-jm) – USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack says lawmakers are facing some major challenges as they try to craft a new farm bill before the old one expires. Gary Crawford reports…

(Cissna Park-dg) School is about a month in and one area organization is collecting donations for its local food pantry. The Cissna Park FFA will be conducting a food drive Wednesday evening. Cissna Park FFA Adviser Jeff Clifton says the FFA students will be going around Cissna Park and surrounding towns from 5-8pm gathering collections.

Cissna Park FFA Adviser Jeff Clifton

(Springfield-jm) – The end of cash bail in Illinois begins September 18, but the debate over whether the measure will lead to better public safety continues. As part of the Safety, Accountability, Fairness and Equity-Today Act approved in early 2021, the end of cash bail was approved with a delayed implementation date. The law has been modified several times since. The Pretrial Fairness Act portion of the SAFE-T Act Governor J.B. Pritzker signed was supposed to go into effect January 1, but was blocked by a lawsuit brought by dozens of state’s attorneys from across the state and was later upheld by the Illinois Supreme Court. Republicans and some critics of the legislation wonder how prosecutors should handle cases on weekends and holidays with the 48 hour deadline.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation is announcing more than 11 million in planning grants is being awarded to communities around the state. The money is funding initiatives ranging from transit service for those in need in Lee and Ogle Counties to a long range transportation plan for Cook County says IDOT Spokesperson Paul Wappel…

IDOT Spokesperson Paul Wappel. Funding will also go towards a bicycle transportation plan for the cities of Pickneyville, DuQuoin and West Frankfort, as well as Carterville, Herrin and Murphysboro.

(Undated-jm) – Local legislators are remembering former state representative Bill Black. Black died unexpectedly over the weekend after a brief illness. State Senator Paul Farachi along with State Senator Chapin Rose offered their condolences to the Black family. Black served in the Illinois House from 1986 until 2010. Bill Black was 81.

(Urbana-jm) – The man involved in the shooting outside of a church where a funeral was taking place was arrested on Monday. Police say Linnell Blount was arrested at 9 a.m. on Monday after a Champaign County Court Security Officer recognized Blount at the Champaign County Courthouse where Blount was attending a status hearing on an unrelated case. On Friday, the Urbana Police Department responded to shots fired outside of a church where a funeral was taking place.

(Champaign-jm) – The State Farm Center announced the addition of the Harlem Globetrotters to its lineup of shows on Friday, January 5, 2024 at 7:00 pm. Tickets go on sale to the public Friday, September 25 at 10 a.m. 

(Springfield-jm) – Despite a dry week, crop conditions held steady for the most part. 58 percent of the Illinois corn and soybean crops are rated in good to excellent condition, about the same as the previous week. Temperatures were just a bit warmer than average this past week and the state saw less than half of normal rainfall. Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener has the rundown on soybeans…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. The third cutting of alfalfa is now 85 percent complete. Average statewide topsoil moisture declined to 22 percent very short, 43 percent short and 35 percent excellent.

(Washington-jm) – Here's a look at the origins of USDA's fifty year old World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield–jc)  – One educational opportunity will expire soon if lawmakers do not take action during the upcoming fall veto session. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City provides some details on the “Invest in Kids Scholarship Fund”...

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City

(Undated–jc)  – The Illinois Restaurant Association is offering an alternative to a plan to end the so-called “sub-minimum” wage for workers who earn tips. A Chicago City Council committee is expected to hold a hearing this month on an ordinance that would raise the minimum wage salary paid to restaurant and bar workers while allowing them to still collect tips. President Sam Toia said the higher wage level would be detrimental to smaller eateries and suggests quadrupling the penalties for businesses that fail to make up the difference in tips for servers who don't make the equivalent minimum wage.

(Chicago-jm) – The Illinois Department of Human Services is recognizing National Recovery Month. The Chicago skyline will be lit purple through next week to bring awareness to opioid abuse and to support those trying to beat their addiction, says Department of Human Services Spokesperson Patrick Laughlin…

Illinois Department of Human Services Spokesperson Patrick Laughlin.The state also has a hotline for those battling drug addiction and considering recovery and their friends and family members. That number is: 1-833-2-find help, or visit: helpline il dot org.

(Champaign county–jc)  – Champaign County Coroner, Duane Northrup is releasing the name of a Champaign County youth from Royal,  who has died from injuries sustained in a pedestrian versus train incident on  Railroad Street in Royal. The accident occurred Friday morning just before 8am. 9 year old Easton D. Wilsey, died from traumatic injuries he received when he collided with a train while attempting to cross the railroad tracks on his bicycle. No autopsy will be performed however, an inquest may be held on a later date. This death is being investigated by the Champaign Coroner’s Office and the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office. 

(Urbana–jc) Cold and flu season is here. OSF’s Tim Ditman has the story…

(Undated-jm) – There are several meetings around the area tonight. The Gibson City city council will consider a redesign for 2 new sites in Falcon Pointe and purchase real estate for the water department. In Rantoul, the Rantoul Township High School board will vote on the fiscal year 24 budget. The Ford County Board will meet tonight to consider a sheriff’s contract with the village of Sibley.

(Undated0–dm)  – Emergency management experts are discussing the response to migrants being sent to Illinois from other states. The panel discussion was held during an annual summit in Springfield.  I-EMA director Alicia Tate Nadeau says it was hard to get  a lot of details

Chicago emergency management officials talked about the desperate need for more space for asylum seekers.  The city has been using everything from hotels to vacant schools as temporary housing. 

(Washington-jm) – The latest ag trade numbers show a continued downturn in U.S. agricultural exports. Gary Crawford reports…

(The Center Square) – Illinoisans are paying above the national average for the most essential household bills. The bill paying assistance company doxo found that residents of Illinois pay nearly $900 more a year for household expenses than the national average.  The report reveals that while the average U.S. household spends $24,557 annually on the most essential household bills, which is 35% of the U.S. household median income of $70,784 and roughly $2,046 per month, many states, including Illinois, rank above this figure.

(Manteno-jm) – Illinois has landed a new electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant. Gotion, INC. is building a two billion dollar state of the art plant in Manteno, says Governor J-B Pritzker…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. The manufacturing facility is expected to create 26 hundred new, good paying jobs.

(Urbana–jc)  – Shots were fired early Friday afternoon in Urbana at a funeral. Police say the  incident is considered a murder attempt and targeted attack the location of the shots was at the New Life Church of Faith. . The shots missed the intended target, but some struck a nearby house. No one was injured in the attack Anyone with information or any video of the scene are asked to contact Champaign County Crime Stoppers at 217-373-8477 or your local police department.

(Paxton–jc)  A new fall event is coming to the city of Paxton next month. Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper introduces “Paxton’s Fall Gathering”...

Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Washington-jm) – What type of agricultural commodities are taking the biggest hit in this year's export sales decline. Gary Crawford reports…

WPXN News Notes…

The Ford County Public Health Department will hold a flu clinic on Tuesday, September 12th from 10-12 at Paxton IGA.

Buckley St. John’s annual PTL mum fundraiser will be held on Thursday, September 14th from 11-6 or until they sell out. First come first serve, no holds! $15 per mum, Buy 5 get one free. As weather permits, it will be held on the north side of the building.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois health officials appear optimistic that COVID-19 outbreaks this winter won’t be severe. According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, more than 400 people in Illinois were admitted to hospitals with COVID-19 last week. During a meeting Thursday with health departments from around the state, Dr. Arti Barnes, chief medical officer with IDPH, said it appears hospital admissions in the state have peaked. Vaccine manufacturers are expected to release an updated COVID-19 vaccine sometime this month, which Barnes said will be referred to as an “annual COVID shot” in an effort to gain more acceptance.

(Loda-jm) – Work continues on the new Dollar General in Loda. Construction got underway last month building the new facility on the south side of town. The store is expected to be open by the end of the year.

(Paxton–jc)  Work on the Free Wi-Fi in downtown Paxton continues this week. The Paxton Main Street Group secured a grant from T-Mobile to place free internet in the downtown area of the city. Paxton Main Street Group Executive Director Donna Pepper says bringing the internet to the downtown area is an economic boost…

Paxton Main Street Group Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Urbana-jm) – Champaign County Republican John Farney has been chosen to fill the vacancy in District 3. Farney replaces Stan Harper who retired. Farney will fill the remainder of Harper’s term which expires November 30, 2024. Farney is the former county treasurer and auditor.

(Gilman-jc) – In updating our story from this week, Gilman based Incobrasa Industries broke ground on an expanded manufacturing facility. Incobrasa Industries Quality Control Manager Carey Fogerty says the company started in 19-97…

Gilman based Incobrasa Industries Quality Control Manager Cary Fogerty.  The expansion helps retain the 200 jobs at the plant and brings in an additional 40 jobs, says 53rd district State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Washington-jm) – Farmers and agricultural traders around the world have for a half century depended on a particular USDA report. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – A new analysis by the Center for Immigration Studies shows a dramatic decline in the labor force participation of working-age Illinoisans over the past six decades. The analysis shows the labor force participation rate of working-age men without a bachelor's degree in Illinois fell from 89% in 1960 to 71% in 2023. The report notes that one of the arguments for allowing in so many immigrants is that the low unemployment rate means that no potential workers are available. But what gets ignored is the increase of working age people not in the labor force in Illinois. Working-age immigrants in Illinois have not experienced the same decline in labor force participation. At the same time that the labor force numbers were falling, the immigrant share of the overall labor force increased dramatically from 6% in 1970 to 18% by 2023. About 14,000 migrants have entered Illinois over the past year, most of which were bused up from Texas.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign-Urbana area is celebrating a milestone — new record-breaking travel and tourism numbers. The data was just released and shows a 28% increase in spending in Champaign County in 2022. Travel and tourism supported 4,900 jobs (a 14.8% increase) and brought in $17.3 million through visitor spending (a 21.4% increase).

(Paxton–jc)  City of Paxton leaders are working with Western Illinois University officials on a “mapping” project to look at the future of the city. Paxton City Councilman Rob Pacey talks about the process of the meetings…

Paxton City Councilman Rob Pacey.  The first meeting is set for early October. The public is invited to attend and to also bring ideas for the meeting. 

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District said they won’t agree to a payment proposal from Marketplace Mall to use their space. MTD said the mall discussed the idea of a maintenance fee for buses to pick up and drop off people in their area. A two-year, $1,500-a-month agreement was declined after a board of directors meeting last month.

(Washington-jm) – USDA is celebrating a special birthday for a special and long-running USDA report. Gary Crawford reports…

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

The Gibson City Harvest Fest will take place tonight and tomorrow

The Team Hope walk for Huntington’s Disease will be held on Saturday at Lakeview Country Club in Loda.  Activities include a walk, fun zone for kids and silent auction.

Gilman’s Super Saturday is set for Saturday in downtown Gilman. Activities include a BBQ cookoff beginning at 7 am, biscuit and gravy breakfast by the Gilman American Legion from 7-10 am, opening ceremony at 9 am, 9-4 slow boys tractor show vendor and food booths and giant red wagon rides, car show 10-1, kids zone featuring inflatables, games, face painting and petting zoo from 10-4, antique tractor parade at 4 and a golf cart scavenger hunt from 4:30-5:30.

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting First United Methodist Women on Saturday from 10-2.

The American Lutheran Church in Rantoul will hold their Rally Sunday on Sunday.

The 9/11 Memorial Ride will take place on Sunday. The group will leave Danville at 10 am and make their way up Route 1 to Hoopeston, then along Route 9 to Paxton where they will have lunch at the Paxton fire station before heading south on Route 45 to Ludlow and Rantoul before turning onto 136 and make their way back to Danville.

A 9/11 remembrance ceremony will be held on Sunday at 2pm under the grand ole flag in Paxton.

(Springfield-jm) – From energy policy to the Invest in Kids Act, Illinois legislators returning to Springfield next month are already laying out their expectations. The fight of the fall session is going to be renewing the privately-funded Invest in Kids school choice scholarship program. The program gives a 75% state income tax credit for donations but expires at the end of the year. A bipartisan approach to lift the nuclear moratorium Governor J.B. Pritzker vetoed will also be top of mind.Lawmakers may also consider Pritzker’s veto of a measure giving right of first refusal to Ameren Illinois when constructing electric transmission lines.  The six-day veto session is scheduled to begin October 24 and end November 9.

(Gilman-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker visited Gilman on Wednesday morning to celebrate the expansion of Incobrasa Industries’ Manufacturing facility. The company is an industry leader in soybean processing and the $250 million project in Gilman will boost that presence further, says Governor Pritzker…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. Incobrasa’s project includes adding a new state of the art soybean crushing facility and an array of solar panels to help fuel the plant.

(Rantoul-jm) – It’s been a discussion in Rantoul for decades: restore the Minuteman missile displayed at the old Chanute Air Force Base or tear it down and give it to the National Museum of the Air Force in Ohio. But time is running out for village leaders to make a decision. They have until March. The missile was placed at Chanute in 1966.

(Paxton-jm) – Emergency crews were called to a two vehicle accident in Paxton Wednesday evening. The accident happened on Route 45 in front of Dollar General. The road had to be closed for about an hour to clean up the damage.

(Washington-jm) – Our nation recently requested a USMCA dispute settlement panel related to Mexico’s ban of biotech food products, but what are the next steps in that process? Rod Bain reports…

(Piper City-jm) – It may look just like an old fire truck, but to the town of Piper City, it’s their history in bright red. Now, the community gets to keep it. The antique fire engine was the first in Piper City’s history. It dates back to 1928. The truck recently went up for auction and the community raised over $11,000 to win the bid. The fire department plans on starting a committee to head the truck’s maintenance and to decide where it goes. They plan to use the fire truck in parades and other events, like the upcoming Touch-A-Truck event on Main Street on September 17. They also plan on putting it in car shows and allowing Santa to ride in it when he comes to town.

(Paxton–jc)  –  The delicious smells of barbeque are set to start in the early morning hours of Saturday September 16th in downtown Paxton. It is the annual Swine and Dine sponsored by the Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce. Swine and Dine Spokesperson Alan Meyer says the contest starts around 5 that morning…

Paxton Swine and Dine Event Spokesperson Alan Meyer

WPXN will be broadcasting our On the Sidelines program live downtown Paxton starting at 7am on the 16th.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois lawmakers are expected to address a measure that would change the state's estate tax value from $4 million up to $12 million, according to Governor J.B. Pritzker. The state's estate tax kicks in when someone inherits a property or assets valued at $4 million or more, requiring the inheritance to pay a tax on the assets. According to state data, the Attorney General's office collected more than $456 million in estate tax revenues for the fiscal year 2022. A measure by state Senator Dave Koehler, of Peoria, would raise the limit from $4 million to $12 million, reducing the impact on some taxpayers. Lawmakers return for the fall veto session in late October. Some Republicans are calling for the end of the estate tax.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker joined the U-S Secretary of Education on the “Back to School” bus tour at a stop in Springfield Wednesday. Secretary Miguel Cardona has been visiting several schools to kick off fall classes. At Fairview Elementary in Springfield, he praised Illinois for what he calls “intentional collaboration”...

U-S Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. Cardona said political division in education needs to end. Governor Pritzker says Illinois sets high standards for students and sends more funding to the schools that need it most.

(St. Joseph-jm) – Route 150 is open near St. Joseph after a 3 vehicle crash. The Illinois State Police said that all three vehicles were traveling east towards St. Joseph. One vehicle stopped to wait for westbound traffic before turning northbound. A second vehicle was waiting behind when a third vehicle rear-ended the second, pushing it into the first vehicle. The driver of the second vehicle was transported to a nearby hospital with non-critical injuries. The other two drivers declined medical treatment.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign County Community Coalition, in partnership with United Way, invites the public to attend Read.Talk.Play Everyday! The event will take place tonight from 5:30 PM - 7 PM. Volunteers will walk through identified neighborhoods in Champaign and Urbana to distribute bags of

early learning tools to families and caregivers of young children to help with engagement of their youth. Bags will include: books, crayons, pencils, and fun items such as shaving cream, playdoh, and beginning scissors.

(Washington-jm) – Farmers are seeing another decline in direct government payments. Gary Crawford reports…

(Gibson City-jm) – A Holocaust exhibit will be in Gibson City starting next week. The exhibit sponsored by the Champaign Urbana Jewish Federation and The Holocaust Education Center will be at the American Evangelical Lutheran Church in Gibson City from September 10-29th. The public is invited to attend from 4-7 pm Monday through Fridays. Schools are invited to attend from 12-4 by calling 217-649-1962.

(Springfield-jm) – Gun owners are anxiously awaiting rules to be released by Illinois State Police for the registry that is required as part of Illinois’ gun and magazine ban set to open October 1. In less than a month, ISP is expected to open the portal for gun owners to register certain semi-automatic firearms the state has labeled “assault weapons.” As part of the state’s gun and magazine ban called the Protect Illinois Communities Act that was enacted January 10, those in possession of certain semi-automatic firearms from before then are required to register a sworn affidavit with Illinois State Police by January 1, 2024, or criminal penalties apply. The rules from ISP are to be filed with the bipartisan Joint Committee on Administrative Rules. JCAR’s monthly meeting is scheduled for September 12. ISP’s rules for the registry are not yet on the agenda.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Treasurer Mike Frerichs’ Office is working to get the word out about the state’s Illinois “ABLE” program. Schools should now be sharing information about the savings program with the parents of individualized education plan students. Treasurer Frerichs says it helps families save money for disability-related expenses…

State Treasurer Mike Frerichs. The money can be used for expenses like therapy, transportation, education, special equipment and more. More details about the ABLE program are available at: illinois treasurer dot gov.

(Springfield-jm) – A new public dashboard has been launched revealing data on unintentional, fatal drug overdoses in Illinois. Northwestern University scientists said the dashboard showed a significant increase in the overdose deaths of older adults 55-64 from 2019 to 2021. About 80% were opioid related, but there was an increase in cocaine-related deaths as well. The number of incidents with cocaine as the cause of death increased from 832 in 2019 to more than 1,100 in 2021.

(Springfield-jm) – August weather was about normal in Illinois, wrapping up a mild and drier summer. According to preliminary numbers, August temperatures were pretty average. That’s even with the heat wave where the feels like temp rose well above 100 degrees. Statewide average precipitation was around an inch above normal last month, but State Climatologist Trent Ford says totals varied locally…

State Climatologist Trent Ford. Rainfall over the summer months also varied. This was the 13th driest summer on record in Moline while it was one of the wettest in far southern Illinois.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man is under arrest in connection to a Monday morning argument-turned-shooting that left both him and another Urbana man hurt. Urbana Police officials said that officers responded to the area of Vawter Street and Harding Drive at approximately 3:19 a.m. for a report of a shooting. When they arrived, officers found a 37-year-old man with a gunshot wound to the stomach. Officers also learned that a second man, age 28, was at the hospital for a gunshot wound to the arm, which he received in the same shooting. Officials said the investigation revealed that the 28-year-old, identified as Anthony Wilkins, was in possession of cocaine and was one of the people who fired shots. Upon his released from the hospital, Wilkins was arrested on charges of aggravated discharge of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois topsoil moisture levels fell this past week as we hear in the weekly crop report. After a cool and dry week, average statewide levels came in at 22 percent very short, 34 percent short and 44 percent adequate. Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener says 87 percent of corn acres have reached the dough stage…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. Both corn and soybean conditions declined over the week. 89 percent of soybeans are setting pods and 7 percent of acres are dropping leaves. The third cutting of alfalfa is now 80 percent complete.

(Paxton–jc)  The T-Mobile free downtown Wi-Fi project is continuing in the city of Paxton. The project is sponsored locally by the Paxton Main Street group. Paxton Main Street Group Executive Director Donna Pepper says internet access for all in downtown Paxton is the key objective…

Paxton Main Street Group Executive Director Donna Pepper. Site work for the project is underway.

(Springfield-jm) – While some advocates iron out issues they foresee with Illinois taxpayers subsidizing non-citizen health care, lawmakers pushed back. As part of the state's fiscal year 2024 budget that began July 1, Gov. J.B. Pritzker modified the program to only cover those over 65 for a total budgeted amount of $550 million. Questions remain on how the state will afford it. The plan was discussed by advocates from all over the state on Tuesday, who shared their concerns about the feasibility of the plan with the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services. Other issues brought up during Tuesday's meeting included concerns about co-pays Pritzker implemented and the risk of charging non-citizens for health care when many don't have income. Republicans argue taxpayer money shouldn’t go towards immigrants here illegally and there are other programs that should be funded before migrant healthcare.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Police is making changes to widen the pool of potential troopers. There is now another path for current law enforcement officers to join the ranks of the state police. Sergeant Aldo Schumann says under option three, the education requirement will be waived if the applicant meets certain requirements…

Illinois State Police Sergeant Aldo Schumann. Additionally, option two is being expanded to make more veterans eligible to apply. More information is available online at: illinois trooper dot com.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Supreme Court has issued an order which allows pretrial hearings under the SAFE-T Act to be conducted remotely when necessary. The SAFE-T Act requires Illinois circuit courts to conduct hearings, in many instances within 48 hours of a defendant’s arrest, to determine whether a defendant should be detained or released with or without conditions. Due to the anticipated volume of hearings on pretrial detention with the end of cash bail beginning Sept. 18, the court ruled that compliance with the SAFE-T Act will only be possible with the use of two-way audio-visual communication systems.

(Springfield-jm) – August weather was about normal in Illinois, wrapping up a mild and drier summer. Despite the heatwave last month, average statewide temperatures were pretty close to normal. Rainfall was nearly an inch above normal in August, although far southern Illinois saw a lot more precipitation. Unfortunately some areas are still dry says State Climatologist Trent Ford…

State Climatologist Trent Ford. Ford says the drought peaked in early July but low flow issues especially in the Mississippi River remain a concern. For summer overall in Illinois temperatures were less than a half a degree below normal and rainfall was less than an inch below average.

(Pesotum-jm) – A Champaign County man is behind bars after he was accused of threatening Julia Rietz, the State’s Attorney, and the Champaign County Courthouse. Prosecutors said Glenn Jones of Pesotum has a history of mental illnesses and has been in jail before. This time, he’s accused of making several social media posts directed at Rietz. They were all made on Facebook at the end of August, tagging her professional and personal pages. Some posts he’s accused of making said she owes him money for wrongly putting him in jail. Others said he knows where she lives and he will come with a lynch mob.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois topsoil moisture levels fell this past week as we hear in the weekly crop report. Rainfall was well below normal, leaving average statewide topsoil moisture levels at 22 percent very short, 34 percent short and 44 percent adequate. Crop conditions declined, with corn falling to 57 percent in good to excellent condition. 15 percent of corn is now mature. Statistician Mark Schleusener says 89 percent of soybean acres are dropping leaves…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. The third cutting of alfalfa is now complete and pasture conditions dropped to 32 percent in good to excellent condition.

(Urbana–jc)  If you’re thinking about sugar substitutes to lose weight, think again. Experts say it can do more harm than good. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has more…

:

You should also carefully read food labels. 

(Springfield-jm) – A new bill filed in Springfield would require companies to have age verification before people could see pornography online. Senate Republicans believe the plan could protect vulnerable children on the internet. A 2022 report from Common Sense Media found that most teenagers have watched porn online and many kids encounter it by the time they turn 12. Experts and lawmakers said young children may be exposed to porn on accident through search engines, social media, or clicking questionable links. The American Academy of Pediatrics has warned that minors watching porn can struggle with negative emotional, psychological, behavioral and physical health. Under this plan, porn companies could face a $5,000 fine for each day they fail to have reasonable age verification methods. The Attorney General would also have the power to investigate violations of the law after companies receive 30 days to comply. Courts may impose an additional civil penalty of up to $10,000 for each company "knowingly failing to perform reasonable age verification methods."

(Washington-jm) – How were agricultural import projections adjusted in USDA's August quarterly ag trade forecasts for fiscal year 2023 and reflected in the first forecast for FY 2024? Rod Bain reports…

(Danville-jm) – Those visiting Veterans Affairs hospitals and clinical locations in Central Illinois will be required to wear masks. VA Illiana is bringing back its mask requirement, starting today. It is seen by the VA as a preventive measure to ensure veterans, staff and communities are safe through the uptick of positive COVID-19 cases in the region. Masks will be available at all main entrances and at appointment check-in desks to use prior to clinical encounters.

(Paxton-jm) – The City of Paxton public works and long term planning committee will meet tonight. The joint committee meeting will take place at 7 pm where members will seek input from the public about possible new sewer plant upgrades, the vermilion lift station and drainage issues on the west side of town.

(Loda–jc)  The Team Hope Huntington’s Disease event is set for Saturday at Lakeview Country Club in Loda. Event Spokesperson Samantha Cox says golf, a walk, silent auction, kids zone and a dinner are planned for Saturday at Lakeview Country Club…

Team Hope Huntington’s Disease Event Spokesperson Samantha Cox. Walkers are still needed, please reach out if you or your family would like to participate. WPXN will be broadcasting our On the Sidelines Show live on Saturday morning at Lakeview at 7am to help with the event. 

(Champaign County-jm) – The Eastern Illinois Foodbank’s Foodmobile will be traveling throughout Champaign County today. The Foodmobile will be at the St. Joseph Feed the Need at 8 am, old high school park in Ogden at 9 am, the parking lot across from the Homer Post Office at 10 am, the Sidney Community Center at 11 am, the R.E. Franks Meeting Center in Philo at noon, Pesotum’s Hartman Park at 1 pm and Premier Cooperative in Sadorus at 2pm.

(Springfield-jm) – While the state of Illinois ponders an appeal of a court order blocking a law allowing deceptive practice charges against crisis pregnancy centers, some have spoken out against the measure as anti-free speech. Senate Bill 1909, signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker in July, prohibits pregnancy centers from engaging in conduct the Illinois Attorney General's office deems are unfair methods of competition or unfair or deceptive acts or practices. That could lead to such centers being shut down. On behalf of the National Institute of Family Life Advocates, the Thomas Moore Society filed a lawsuit to block the law. On August 4, the case docket showed federal Judge Iain Johnson temporarily blocked the law with a preliminary injunction while the case plays out, saying the measure is "both stupid and likely unconstitutional." A status hearing in the Northern District of Illinois federal court is set for October 23. The state has not appealed.

(Washington-jm) – What countries are expected to be our nation's top agricultural export markets for fiscal year 2024, per USDA's first ag trade outlook for the new fiscal year? Rod Bain reports…

(Undated-jm) – The Sheriff’s Offices of Champaign and Vermilion Counties are jointly investigating two burglaries that targeted businesses with gaming machines last month. The two burglaries happened one week apart in Ogden and Potomac. Authorities believe both crimes were committed by the same suspects, and they believe the suspects were solely after the money inside the machines. The first burglary happened the morning of August 21 at Buckley’s Gaming Cafe in Ogden. Deputies arrived around 4 a.m. to find evidence of forced entry to the business and to a single gaming machine. One week later, at 3:30 a.m. on August 28, they found the same occurrence at Lola’s Bar and Grill in Potomac. The Champaign and Vermilion County Sheriff’s Offices are asking the public for help in identifying the suspects.

(Undated-jm) – County clerks around the area are ready to release petition packets today. Candidates for established political parties can begin circulating petitions today. The first day candidates can file their nomination papers is November 27th-December 4th.

(Springfield-jm) – The world's largest ag show was held in Decatur last week. The Farm Progress Show brought in visitors from around the country and world. Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello talks about the importance of agriculture in Illinois…

Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello. 

(Champaign County-jm) – Eight Champaign County school districts will receive over $3.3 million in additional funding to help students. The funding comes from the 2017 Illinois Senate Democrat-backed evidence-based funding formula — an overhaul of the way the state funds K-12 education. Those receiving funding include: Alternative School, part of the Champaign/Ford Regional Office of Education: $25,131, Champaign Unit School District 4: $165,701, Prairieview-Ogden School District 197: $3,652, Rantoul City School District 137: $905,100, Rantoul Township High School District 193: $769,566, Regional Safe School, part of the Champaign/Ford Regional Office of Education: $47,357, Thomasboro School District 130: $14,376, Urbana School District 116: $1,279,074 and University Laboratory High School: $183,328.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services has launched a child welfare dashboard in an effort to increase transparency and accountability. The Illinois Child Welfare Insights Tool marks the first time that Illinois residents, child welfare advocates and the families receiving these services have near real-time access to information used by DCFS administrators, including the number of reports of abuse and neglect filed with the agency and how quickly DCFS staff responded. Data is updated daily and can be viewed at the county or state level.

(Undated-jm) – Today is Labor Day. That means government buildings and services are closed today. Banks and the stock market are also closed today. Most stores are open today however, Costco is closed and Hobby Lobby is closing early.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias’ new “Skip the Program '' is now in effect in Illinois’ busiest DMV’s. 44 facilities including those in Chicago, the suburbs and some in central and downstate Illinois now require people to make an appointment to get the real ID, a new driver’s license or ID card or to take a driving test. Secretary Giannoulias says it’s all about convenience and saving people time…

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. Additionally, all Illinois DMV’s are extending hours and are now open from 8 am to 5:30 pm. 15 facilities will be open six days a week, including a half a day on Saturday.

(Piper City-jm) – Firefighters from multiple departments responded to a fire in rural Piper City Saturday night. Cullom, Chatsworth and Gilman assisted Piper City with the structure fire north of town. No word on the cause of the fire.

(Rantoul-jm) – The arrival of Santa is still a few months away, but the reindeer are back in Central Illinois. Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch opened its doors in Rantoul on Friday, welcoming families to come see and feed reindeer through December. In the fall, the ranch offers a themed corn maze. This year channels a groovy “hippie” theme. This year marks the ranch’s 28th anniversary. They offer various activities including the corn maze, hay rides, pedal race carts and paintball. September hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.

(Washington-jm) – USDA’s Market News Mobile App has advanced in what and how data is available to end users since its availability two years ago. Rod Bain reports…

(Undated-jm) – July unemployment numbers are up around the area. The rate in Champaign County rose from 4 percent to 5 percent. Ford Counties rose from 4.2 percent to 5.3 percent. Vermilion Counties rose from 4.9 percent to 6.6 percent. Iroquois Counties rose from 4 percent to 5 percent.

(Springfield-jm) – In an effort to build its ranks, the Illinois State Police is updating the pre-employment requirements for people applying to become a trooper. A new law makes changes to the Illinois State Police Act, effective Jan. 1, 2024. The new “Option Three” allows for current law enforcement officers with three years of continuous service at the same law enforcement agency to join the ranks of ISP quickly.

(Undated-jm) – Today is Labor Day, the unofficial end of summer. Banks, schools, mail delivery and government offices are closed today. The stock market is also closed today.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Liquor Control Commission is warning about the dangers of drunk driving a boat. Just like on land, someone operating a boat who has had too much to drink can be cited for driving under the influence. And besides getting a costly ticket, the offense can be deadly, says Commission Executive Director Lisa Gardner…

Illinois Liquor Commission Executive Director Lisa Gardner. Gardner says drunk boating is one of the most common citations issued each year. The top offense is now following life jacket laws.

(Milford-jm) – A house fire Saturday left a Milford family displaced and their pets lost. The fire occurred near East Irving Street and North Grove Avenue around 12:30 p.m. Firefighters say the flames started on the first floor of their home. A neighbor walking by saw it and called 9-1-1. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign City Council wants help picking key issues for them to address. Some said it is impossible to guess what is important to a population of 90,000. That’s why the City Council has brainstorming sessions every two years. A city-wide survey has already gone out and it only has two questions. All City Council members will see the responses and think about what to prioritize in this next season.

(Washington-jm) – What does USDA's latest Technology Use on Farms report reveal regarding use of precision agricultural practices and devices? Rod Bain reports…

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man faces up to life in prison when he is sentenced after being convicted of possession with intent to deliver meth. Artez Johnson was convicted after a traffic stop back in February in Rantoul uncovered 330 grams of meth. Johnson faces 10 years to life in prison.

(Decatur-jm) – The state is expanding mental health access in rural areas around the state. Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker made the announcement this week at the Farm Progress Show in Decatur…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker.

(Springfield-jm) – Beginning today, most Illinois DMV facilities will require an online appointment to get drivers licenses, Real IDs and driving tests. It is part of a move to modernize the Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles. The aim is to cut down on wait times at facilities where people can wait hours, depending on the lines. The appointments will be required at 44 locations throughout the state. 

(Rantoul–jc)  –  As we head into the Labor Day holiday this weekend, several new businesses have opened or are ready to open this month in Rantoul. Starbucks and Jersey Mike’s will open soon and work on future business to locate in the village is in the works.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man faces 4-15 years in prison if he’s convicted of sexual assault. Cecil Ervin is facing charges of aggravated criminal sexual abuse and criminal sexual assault. Prosecutors say the alleged incidents took place between 2021 and July 2023.

(Paxton–jc)  The Ford County Veterans Assistance Information Center continues to work with local veterans and their families. The local group, based in the state street mall in Paxton, helps veterans with health issues, financial needs and more.

Those veterans’ and families wanting more information may stop by the center in Paxton or contact the center on-line. 

(Champaign-jm) – A building being demolished in Champaign came down quicker than expected on Thursday, and it happened on top of at least two people. The collapse happened on Hill Street between State and Randolph Streets. Two people were rescued from the rubble and taken away from the scene by ambulance. There is no word on their conditions.

(Chicago-jm) – Governor JB Pritzker and other elected leaders want President Joe Biden to ease work restrictions for asylum seekers and other long-term undocumented workers. Capitol News Illinois reports more than 13-thousand asylum seekers have arrived in Chicago since last August, when Texas Governor Greg Abbott began bussing refugees to cities led by Democrats. Migrants can’t apply for work permits until five months after they’ve applied for asylum in the U.S. – a process that can also take months. At a Chicago news conference, Pritzker and business leaders said allowing states like Illinois to sponsor work permits for asylum seekers would also help ease the ongoing workforce shortage in key industries like food processing, health care, transportation and energy…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. In a letter to the Department of Homeland Security this week, Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson urged the expansion of an existing program that allows refugees from certain countries – like Afghanistan, Haiti, Cuba and Venezuela – to apply for short-term work permits.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced that lanes that have been closed for construction will reopen, where possible, for the Labor Day holiday to minimize travel disruption. Non-emergency closures will be suspended from 3 p.m. today to 11:59 p.m. Monday. Over the next six years, IDOT is planning to improve more than 2,500 miles of highway and nearly 10 million square feet of bridge deck as part of the Rebuild Illinois capital program.

(Momence-jm) – Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation, Zone 1 is requesting the public’s assistance in the investigation surrounding the death of 52-year-old Bert N. Lawton of Grant Park, IL.  On August 27, 2023 at approximately 2:45 a.m troopers responded to a hit and run crash involving a motorcycle and passenger vehicle on 14000 East and 4000 North Road in Momence, IL.  The driver of the motorcycle, Bert N. Lawton, was transported to an area hospital and pronounced deceased.  The offending vehicle fled the scene westbound onto 4000 North Road into Momence and is believed to have sustained heavy front-end damage. Anyone with information regarding this crash is asked to contact the ISP DCI Zone 1 at 815-209-6567.  Witnesses can remain anonymous.

(Paxton-jm) – The 2023 Paxton Swine and Dine BBQ Competition and Festival will take place Saturday, September 16th in downtown Paxton. Spokesperson Alan Meyer says its a full day of activities…

Paxton Swine and Dine Spokesperson Alan Meyer.

(Livingston County-jm) – On August 25th two batches of mosquitoes collected by Livingston County Health Department’s Director of Environmental Health, Donnie Simmons, tested positive for West Nile virus – one batch in Flanagan and one in Pontiac. The Livingston County Health Department is also reporting two bats testing positive for rabies in Livingston County as of 2023. No people were exposed; however, pets were exposed to the infected bats.

(Washington-jm) – What does USDA's first Fiscal Year 2024 forecast for agricultural exports look like? Rod Bain reports…

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting Loda Lutheran Ladies Aid on Saturday from 10-2.

Dennis Stroughmatt will perform at the Melvin Community Hall on Saturday. Cost is $10 for adults 13 and older. Doors open at 5:30 with the concert beginning at 7.