(Springfield-jm) – Illinois’ gun ban registry deadline is a month away and some in local law enforcement say investigating and prosecuting infractions will not be a top priority. The gun and magazine ban was enacted January 10, prohibiting the future sales of more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities. A registry of the now banned firearms, attachments and .50 caliber ammunition opened October 1 with a January 1 deadline to register such items with Illinois State Police. Being out of compliance after January 1 could lead to Class A misdemeanor charges for the first offense and Class 3 felony charges for the second and subsequent offense. As of Wednesday, just 0.18% of Illinois’ 2.4 million Firearm Owner’s ID card holders have registered a banned item with Illinois State Police. 

(Morris–jc)  –Two people were found dead Wednesday following an RV fire at a truck stop in Morris. Authorities were called to the parking lot of Love’s Travel Center just off I-80 about 3 a.m. Firefighters arriving on the scene found a fully engulfed RV in the parking lot. The remains were found inside after the fire was extinguished. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Autopsies on the bodies are scheduled for Friday. 

(The Center Square) – Illinois Republican legislators are responding to Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's recent remarks claiming those wanting to close the U.S. border or send non-citizens to sanctuary states are "unclean spirits." Chicago has over 24,000 migrants sheltering in the city. New York City has more than 66,000, which is leading to discussions on what to do at the southern U.S. border and who is responsible for the influx to cities more than 1,000 miles away. Johnson on Tuesday criticized Republicans in regards to the border and suggested that the "right wing" was dishing out payback.

(Washington-jm) – Food price hikes this year are turning out to be smaller than was expected when the year began. Gary Crawford reports…

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton firefighters were called to an alarm activation at Accolade on Fulton Wednesday evening. Upon arrival crews encountered smoke coming from the 2nd floor. It was discovered to be a furnace malfunction.

(Champaign-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation is happy with the progress on their biggest project ever in Central Illinois: the I-57 and I-74 interchanges. IDOT engineers said they are replacing the outdated clover-shaped exits and “S”-shaped on-ramps. They said the flyovers will make travel between interstates safer and more efficient. IDOT has two exchanges closed between 57 North and 74 East, as well as, 57 South and 74 East. They expect those to be open by next fall, but they said work will stop in the meantime for winter weather. The whole project costs $280 million.

(Paxton–jc)  Paxton city leaders paid off some municipal bonds two years early and that move saved the city some dollars. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the move benefited the city…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold.

(The Center Square) – A national shortage of licensed truck drivers means fewer snow plows on the roads this winter. Maria Casteneda of the Illinois Department of Transportation said staffing levels for the winter response team have been down approximately 15 percent since the start of the pandemic. I-DOT has openings for both full and part-time snow plow drivers. I-DOT is committed to staying outside working until the roads are clear.  Motorists can do their part by staying home if they don’t need to be out driving. If you have to go out, be patient and give the plows plenty of room to work.

(Cissna Park–jc)  A free shopping event is set for The Barn, located north of Cissna Park, along Route 49 near the Cissna Park Coop-Kaufmann Elevator. Donations for the holidays from gifts to clothes and decor have been donated says Cissna Park United Methodist Church Pastor Ashley Clifton…

And its a free event…

Cissna Park United Methodist Church Pastor Ashley Clifton. The event is set for the Barn at Double K Ranch, location is along route 49 across the road from the Cissna Park Coop-Kaufmann Elevator. The event is set for 9am until 4pm on Saturday. 

(Paxton–jc)  A new feature for the Holiday season on WPXN morning news is Fantastic  Local Finds for Christmas..  What to get a teacher, neighbor, to a church friend. Ideas are found at A Picket Fence Florist says Owner Dawn Glad…

A Picket Fence Florist of Paxton Owner Dawn Glad

WPXN will feature gift shopping ideas and Fantastic Finds from the local area each weekday on morning news this holiday season

(Springfield-jm) – Banking officials are warning Illinoisans about a rise in check fraud cases.  In Illinois, check fraud has increased dramatically in recent years. Data shows that over 26,000 Illinois consumers and businesses fell victim to check fraud in 2022, a 104% increase from 2021. The Illinois Bankers Association said criminals target their victims with sophisticated schemes that can involve a legitimate payment request, a blank check stolen from a checkbook, a previously paid or canceled check found in the garbage, or a check placed in the mailbox to pay a bill. A report from the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network found that banks reported roughly 680,000 incidents of check fraud last year, marking a significant increase from the 350,000 reports made in 2021. The U.S. Postal Service has also reported an unprecedented increase in mail theft and check fraud.

(Washington-jm) – What sort of food price inflation situation will shoppers see in 2024? Gary Crawford reports…

(Undated-jm) – Gasoline across Central Illinois could be up to 40 cents cheaper on Thursday, depending on which station drivers stop at. Circle K announced that it is hosting another “Fuel Day Pop Up” in its Heartland division, which consists of Illinois, Missouri and Iowa. All Circle K gas stations will sell gas for 40 cents off per gallon. Hot food will also be 50% off. The discounts will last from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

(Champaign County-jm) – There is another vacancy on the Champaign County Board. Mike Ingram resigned from his seat representing the 6th District because he and his wife have purchased a house outside his district. Ingram will remain chair of the county’s Democratic Party.

(The Center Square) – The state of Illinois has spent nearly $1 billion on migrant care and services over the past 15 months to deal with more than 24,000 non-citizen arrivals. When legislators return in January, the taxpayer cost could increase. Chicago has set aside an additional $150 million to help shelter and care for the influx of noncitizen arrivals. The state recently announced it will be contributing another $160 million in taxpayer funds for services. Around 25 more buses arrived over the weekend, and the governor announced that lawmakers may vote on increased funding when they return.

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker.

(Springfield–jc)  –   More than $3.7 million has been awarded for recreational trail development projects in 19 Illinois communities to help them meet the growing demand for improved trails and outdoor recreation facilities, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced today. The program provides up to 80% reimbursement to local grant recipients for the cost of trail projects, with local sponsors providing the balance of the funding.  Local projects include 200 thousand dollars to  the Champaign County Forest Preserve for renovation at the Lake of the Woods Bike Trail and 130 thousand dollars for bike trail renovation at Allerton Park bike trail.

(Paxton–jc) Get ready to get your shopping flier “Santa Stamped.” The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a four day shopping event in the city. Check out the merchants on the flier, stop by the merchants, get your flier stamped and you could be a prize winner, says Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce President Austin Curtis…

Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce President Austin Curtis. The four day shopping event begins on Friday from 5pm to 8pm in Paxton.

(Undated–jc)  –The Rolling Stones are adding a second Chicago show to their 2024 Hackney Diamonds tour.According to the band’s Facebook page, due to overwhelming demand, the second show will take place June 30 at Soldier Field, three days after the first show.The tour, sponsored by AARP, will travel to 16 cities between April and July, kicking off in Houston Texas.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Police is recognizing a program the agency strengthened last year, with officials arguing it saved lives. In a release, ISP highlighted the agency’s Office of Firearm Safety reviewing more than 10,000 Clear and Present Danger Reports. Law enforcement agencies, school administrators, and medical professionals can file a clear and present danger report to ISP to alert state police of people potentially threatening to hurt someone or themselves. ISP then reviews the report and can revoke a FOID card or application and confiscate any firearms. Between January and September 2023, ISP investigated 10,144 Clear and Present Danger Reports. From those, 4,212 resulted in revoking a card or an application. 4,912 individuals involved in a Clear and Present Danger investigation were found to not have a FOID card or a pending application.

(Washington-jm) – An "average" corn growing season is producing above average results. Gary Crawford reports…

(Urbana-jm) – Urbana Police are investigating an attempted burglary that happened last month. They are asking the public for help in solving the crime through Crime Stoppers. Officials said that just before midnight on October 25, officers were dispatched to Exotic’s Smoke at 1813 South Philo Road for a burglary alarm going off. When they arrived, officers found a broken window and a brick inside the shop. Reviewing surveillance footage, officers discovered that a man was outside the shop, looked around for a few moments and then threw the brick at the window, shattering the glass. The suspect was wearing black clothing that included a Nike hoodie, sweatpants and Croc-style sandals. He was also wearing a Halloween mask.

(Paxton–jc)  The Businesses in the State Street Mall in Paxton are hosting an Open House on Saturday from 11am until 3pm. Ford County Veterans Assistance Center Director Rebecca Rutledge says the gift shop will be open and ready for the holidays…

Ford County Veterans Assistance Center Director Rebecca Rutledge

(Champaign-jm) – In an effort to make sure that no one living in a long-term care facility feels forgotten this holiday season, State Senator Paul Faraci is hosting a holiday card drive for seniors in Champaign County. Faraci is collecting store bought and handmade cards for Champaign County seniors this holiday season. People are encouraged to write kind notes and drop them off or mail them to his office, located at 45 E. University Ave., Suite 206, Champaign, Illinois 61820. The last day to drop off cards is December 15. The cards will then be delivered to local long-term care facilities.

(Cissna Park–jc)  The Cissna Park United Methodist Church is hosting their 3rd annual…The Christmas Shop on Saturday. The event is free and the shopping is free too says Cissna Park United Methodist Church Pastor Ashley Clifton…

Cissna Park United Methodist Church Pastor Ashley Clifton. The event is set for the Barn at Double K Ranch, location is along route 49 across the road from the Cissna Park Coop-Kaufmann Elevator. The event is set for 9am until 4pm on Saturday. 

(Paxton–jc)  A new feature for the Holiday season on WPXN morning news is Fantastic  Local Finds for Christmas.. A local author from Loda has written a book on her experiences as a nurse in NICU. Local author Valerie Wright says a book signing is set for Hudson Drug and Hallmark in Paxton on Friday and Saturday…

Local Author Valerie Wright of Loda

WPXN will feature gift shopping ideas and Fantastic Finds from the local area each weekday on morning news this holiday season

(Springfield-jm) – Hunters in Illinois harvested a preliminary total of 53,348 deer during the first weekend of the Illinois firearm deer season between November 17-19. Comparatively, hunters took 52,354 deer during the first firearm weekend in 2022. Illinois’ seven-day firearm deer season will conclude this weekend. 

(Undated-jm) – Two individuals have declared their candidacies for retiring GOP State Rep Mike Marron’s spot representing the 104th District in Springfield.  Marron announced in July that he would be stepping down and not seeking another term. The two declared candidates are Retired U.S.M.C. Master Sergeant and current City of Danville Code Enforcement Inspector Brandun Schweizer, and State Rep Marron Legislative Assistant and Former Village of Potomac Trustee and State’s Attorney and County Board Offices employee Marguerite Bailey. The Republican Primary Election will be March 19th.

(Paxton–jc  Students from Paxton Buckley Loda High School, Fisher High School and Gibson City Melvin Sibley High School have the opportunity to participate in the Prairieland CEO program. Its an initiative that teaches students about entrepreneur opportunities while interacting with area businesses. Prairieland CEO Co-Facilitator Mandy Taylor says students in the program meet daily…

Prairieland CEO Co-Facilitator Mandy Taylor. Students in the group are organizing a community event on Saturday in Paxton. The event is a 5-K Run at Pells Park in the city. So far over 75 people have signed up for the event. Those wanting to join in are asked to find more information on line and join in on Saturday. The event steps off at Pells Park at 9am

(Paxton–jc)  During the 4 day Holiday Sale in Paxton this weekend, a pop-up vendor  event is set for one downtown business on Saturday. It’s called the Miracle on Market Street. The 10am until 2-30 event takes place inside A Picket Fence Florist in downtown Paxton. Organizer Leslie Ingold says a plethora of vendors are coming…

A Miracle on Market Pop Up Vendor Event Spokesperson Leslie Ingold.

(Undated-jm) – The Kickapoo Rail Trail has received funding to complete construction. The Champaign County Forest Preserve District, Vermilion County Conservation District, and Urbana Park District were awarded $11.2 million in funding through the Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan, a multi-billion-dollar funding package for infrastructure improvements across Illinois, to complete the remaining sections of the Kickapoo Rail Trail in Champaign and Vermilion Counties. The Kickapoo Rail Trail is a multi-use path that, once completed, will stretch 24.5 miles through several communities across county lines. 11.3 miles of the trail is complete as of 2023. There are several sections to be completed with the funds: Trail construction between St. Joseph and Ogden, Design and construction of a trailhead in Urbana, Design and construction of the trail from trailhead to the existing trail at E University Ave (US 150) and E Main St in Urbana and Design and construction between Ogden and Oakwood through Fithian and Muncie.

WPXN News Notes…

Hudson Drug and Hallmark in Paxton will hold a book signing with local author Valerie Wright on Friday, December 1st from 5-7 pm and Saturday, December 2nd from 9-11 am.

The 2023 Paxton Holiday Shopping Weekend in downtown Paxton will take place December 1st through the 4th. An evening shopping event will take place on Friday from 5-8 pm, a pancake and sausage breakfast at Veterans Square from 8-11 am Saturday, Prairieland CEO Jingle Bell 5k Run at 9 am Saturday and a  Kids Matinee Christmas movie at 2 at Veterans Square Saturday. Sunday there will be horse and carriage rides downtown from 12-4.  The bag sale will take place all weekend.

(Ford County-jm) – Monday was the first day candidates could file their paperwork for the March 19th primary election and there will be some contested races in Ford County. Offices to be nominated in the primary ahead of the November 5 election are those of circuit clerk, coroner and state’s attorney, plus six county board seats in Ford County. According to our partners at the Ford County Chronicle, for county board district 1, Tom McQuinn and Debbie Smith will be joined by newcomers Kelsie Vaughn and Dominic Brackenhoff in a contested race for 2 seats. In District 2, Ann and Cindy Ihrke will be joined by newcomers Greg Niewold and Jody Waibel for 2 seats. In District 3, incumbent Sarah Mussman has filed for re-election, while the other incumbent, Chuck Aubry has not yet filed. Garrett Kerber has filed to run. State’s Attorney Andrew Killian filed paperwork however, Circuit Clerk Kammy Johnson Anderson and Coroner Brandon Roderick had not. Kasi Schwarz and Alicia Weber both filed for the circuit clerk position. 

(Undated-jm) – Illinois farmers are preparing for the Jan. 1 implementation of a California welfare law mandating larger space requirements for pigs, cows and chickens. The Farm Animal Confinement Initiative requires sows to have at least 24 square feet of space. According to the Illinois Pork Producers Association, the state’s pork industry contributes nearly $14 billion to the Illinois economy and is the fourth largest in the country.

(Washington-jm) – A USMCA dispute settlement panel offered their ruling in our nation's latest challenge to Canadian dairy policy and its impacts to U.S. dairy exports into that market. Rod Bain reports…

(Paxton–jc)  During the 4 day Holiday Sale in Paxton this weekend, a pop-up vendor  event is set for one downtown business on Saturday. It’s called the Miracle on Market Street. The 10am until 2-30 event takes place inside A Picket Fence Florist in downtown Paxton and has local vendors says organizer Leslie Ingold…

A Miracle on Market Pop Up Vendor Event Spokesperson Leslie Ingold.

(Vermilion County-jm) – Representative Mike Marron will be stepping down from his seat sooner than expected. Marron announced in July he was not seeking reelection but plans to finish his term. Now, he is leaving on December 18 of this year. Marron will lead Vermilion Advantage as its President and CEO. Vermilion Advantage is an economic and workforce development organization for the county. The Vermilion County Republican Party will appoint someone who will serve out the rest of his term.

(Paxton-jm) – The mapping sessions are over but the work on envisioning Paxton’s future still continues. Mapping sessions took place through the month of October into the first week of November focusing on four priority groups identified by community members: housing, infrastructure, business support and development and leisure. Members are now in action groups to address how they will reach the goals of each group. Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm says community involvement is still critical…

Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man is recovering in the hospital after he was grazed by a bullet during a carjacking Sunday night. The shooting and vehicle theft happened just before 9 p.m. in the area of Edwin and Washington Streets. Investigators determined that the 42-year-old victim was in his car, parked in a driveway, when three male suspects approached the car. One fired a shot that grazed the man in the head. All three suspects then pulled the victim out of his car and drove off in it.

(Romeoville–jc)  Where you in Romeoville at the Thornton Gas Station recently. Illinois State Lottery officials say someone is 1 million dollars richer after purchasing a 1-Million dollar Cash Celebration ticket The announcement was made this morning. No one has come forth, yet, to claim the prize.The Illinois Lottery currently offers more that 50 different Instant Tickets at over 7 thousand retail locations across Illinois

(Hoopeston–jc)  A new feature for the Holiday season on WPXN morning news is Fantastic  Local Finds for Christmas.. One book from a local author is available at Boxcar Books and Vinyl in downtown Hoopeston. Former Hoopeston resident Dennis Noyse (noise) is the author of Yonders-Illinois…

Former Hoopeston resident and author Dennis Noyse

WPXN will feature gift shopping ideas and Fantastic Finds from the local area each weekday on morning news this holiday season

(Iroquois County-jm) – Monday was the first day candidates could file their paperwork for the March 19th primary election. Offices to be nominated in the primary ahead of the November 5 election are those of circuit clerk, coroner and state’s attorney, plus 8 county board seats in Iroquois County. Our partners at the Ford County Chronicle say Lisa Hines filed for another term as circuit clerk, while Bill Cheatum filed for another term as coroner, while newcomer Michael Quinlan filed for state’s attorney. Jed Whitlow for District 2 and Scott Watts of District 4, both incumbents, filed for their seats on the board. Current state’s attorney Jim Devine has not yet filed and neither has District 1 incumbents Chad McGinnis and Lyle Behrends, District 2’s John Shure, District 3’s Raymond Williams and Paul Bowers and District 4th’s John Zumwalt.

(Undated-jm) – Governor J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Human Services announced construction is underway on two new shelter sites. Officials said the sites, a base camp in Brighton Park and a brick-and-mortar site in Little Village, will house up to 2,200 asylum seekers in total. Work to construct and operate the shelters is being funded by state taxpayers through Pritzker’s $160 million investment in the asylum seeker process as well as the $478 million in state funding that has been committed to the response over state fiscal years 2023 and 2024.

(Washington-jm) – The White House Monday held the inaugural meeting of its Council on Supply Chain Resilience with participants including the Agriculture Secretary. Rod Bain reports…

(Rantoul-jm) – A persuasive essay at Rantoul’s Northview Elementary School proved more than convincing as the proposal turned into a new playground for all kids to enjoy. The school now has wheelchair accessible equipment and sensory items for students with disabilities. The school takes special interests in meeting disabled students’ needs with four classes specifically supporting them. After third-graders proposed new inclusive equipment for their playground in a persuasive essay assignment, school leaders decided to turn the idea into a reality. Although the old playground was ADA certified, some students were having difficulty with flooring made of loose tire scraps that got in the way of being a truly inclusive playground. After the new equipment was proposed, it took about six to eight months of planning, and about three months to install.

(Springfield-jm) – State lawmakers are pushing for more local control when it comes to making decisions on wind and solar farm development. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – To encourage residents and visitors to frequent Downtown Champaign businesses this holiday season, the City of Champaign is offering up to two hours of free parking in the Hill Street Parking Deck from December 1 through December 31, 2023. Hourly visitors parking longer than two hours will receive a two-hour discount off their parking fee. The City encourages visitors to support Champaign’s local businesses and restaurants.

(Watseka–jc)  The holiday time of the year is also a time when colds, flu and covid numbers rise. Iroquois County Public Health Department in Watseka  Official Eric Ceci (See-see) says you can get your vaccines in the same visit…

Iroquois County Public Health Department Official Eric Ceci

(Paxton–jc)  –  The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a 4 day holiday sale starting with a Friday night three hour event. Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce President Austin Curtis says the bag sale has a new twist with Santa Stamps and lots of prizes…

Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce President Austin Curtis

The Home for the Holidays sale takes place throughout Paxton from December 1st through December 4th. 

(Springfield-jm) – Recent rulings across the country against different states’ gun owner permit laws are fueling hope among Illinois’ gun rights community that the days are numbered for the state’s Firearm Owner’s ID card. The Fourth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals week ruled that Maryland’s permit to buy and own a handgun is unconstitutional. In Illinois, gun rights advocate Todd Vandermyde compared Maryland’s law that requires fingerprints with Illinois’ FOID card. Several years ago, Illinois legislators attempted to require fingerprints for the more than 2.4 million FOID card holders in Illinois. That failed to get enough support. Instead, fingerprints are optional for quicker FOID application turnaround time in Illinois. In Oregon, a state circuit court judge found that the state's gun owner ID law violated the state’s constitution, enjoining implementation of the voter-approved referendum.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois' highest court is considering arguments over whether the state should be able to place lifetime restrictions on when and where a sex offender can and cannot live. The case recently heard by the Illinois Supreme Court involves Martin Kopf, an Illinois resident who went to prison after being convicted of having improper relations with a 15-year-old boy in 2003. Kopf is seeking to remain living in his house, even though there is a children's care center within 500 feet. Kopf had been living there for a few weeks after getting the property approved by local police. Kopf argued that he is being punished even after serving his time in prison and registering as a sex offender.

(Paxton–jc)  Some City leaders in Paxton are proposing an “amusement tax” as Paxton has several new locations for music and entertainment events. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the issue is in the discussion phase, but would likely be a three percent tax on tickets sold. This is the same type of tax buyers receive at other venues. Ingold says he would like to see the money raised go to streets and city property maintenance around the Cadillac and the Prairie City Wine Room…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Cissna Park-jm) – The Carle Cissna Park Clinic will be returning to full operation on December 4. Shelby Robinson, is accredited through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and she will be leading care at the Carle Cissna facility located at 141 W. Garfield Ave.  Robinson grew up in Cissna Park, graduated from Cissna Park High School and currently lives in the Iroquois County community. Robinson’s previous work at Carle Health includes cardiovascular nursing at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana and as an advanced practice registered nurse at the Carle Watseka location. Operations at the Cissna Park clinic were reduced to Wednesday morning pediatric visits several weeks ago. Pediatrician hours will continue in addition to Robinson’s hours. Hours at the Carle Cissna clinic will now be 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Friday. More location information can be found at Carle.org.

(Rantoul–jc)  –  The Rantoul based Community Service Center continues to gather toys and monetary donations for its annual Holiday Bureau. The event helps those needing new toys for kids at Christmas and also vouchers for food items. Community Service Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford says hundreds of families are supported each year…

Community Service Center of Rantoul Executive Director Cindy Crawford

(Springfield-jm) – Republican and Democratic candidates for the March 19 primary are preparing to begin turning in their nominating petitions today. Candidates for 118 state House and 23 state Senate seats, 17 seats for the U.S. House of Representatives and 77 judicial vacancies are up for consideration. The window to turn in petitions for consideration closes December 4.

(Washington-jm) – What are some cons and scams consumers should watch out for as they shop or provide charity this holiday season? Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Jewelry, collectible coins, sports memorabilia and historic souvenirs are among the more than 450 unclaimed property items to be auctioned online. The Illinois State Treasurer's Office will be holding the virtual auction from November 27 through December 1. Items to be auctioned include a man’s 14-karat brushed white gold ring with blue Lindy star sapphire, as well as Michael Jordan comic books and basketball cards featuring Jordan and other NBA stars, including Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and Charles Barkley. A total of 100 lots will be auctioned, with each lot consisting of a single item or multiple items.

(Undated-jm) – As a mysterious and potentially fatal illness continues to sicken dogs across the country, including Illinois, researchers are investigating the cause. The respiratory illness is largely resistant to antibiotics and has led to some fatalities. The American Veterinary Medical Association said it is not clear what is causing the virus so far. Labs across the country have been sharing their findings as they try to pinpoint the culprit.

(Paxton–jc)  The Ford County Veterans Assistance Office in Paxton is spearheading a local toy drive for “Toys for Tots” in the area. Ford County Veterans Assistance Director Rebecca Rutledge says stop by the State Street Mall to donate new toys…

Ford County Veterans Assistance Director Rebecca Rutledge

(St. Joseph-jm) – The Kickapoo Rail Trail will finally be completed. The idea was to create a shared use path between Urbana and Kickapoo State Park in Danville. Part of the trail has already been completed with the rest to be completed over the next couple of years.

(Paxton–jc)  The Thanksgiving holiday weekend also brought out the Christmas Lights Decorating projects. Be safe when putting up those lights. Paxton Hardware and Rental Owner Scott Allen says ladder stabilizers can help…

Paxton Hardware and Rental Owner Scott Allen.

(Rantoul-jc) – Rantoul will hold their Christmas parade this Friday at 6pm. To register, registrations must be into the Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce by 5pm Wednesday. The route will start on Congress Avenue and end on Sangamon Avenue in downtown Rantoul. Lineup begins at the high school at 5pm.

(Washington-jm) – The USDA is only hours away from releasing its last weekly Crop Progress Report for the 2023 growing season. The report will resume next spring. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – With a deposit of $11.5 million, Illinois’ Rainy Day Fund surpassed $2 billion. The Pritzker administration notes that in 2017, the Rainy Day Fund had just $48,000, enough to run the state for under 30 seconds. A $2 billion reserve would run the state for about 15 days. Nearly half of all states in the country have at least a 50-day reserve. Comptroller Susana Mendoza has introduced legislation that would require regular deposits into both the state’s Rainy Day Fund and the Pension Stabilization Fund.

(Springfield-jm) – With the arrival of Thanksgiving and the season for family feasts, the Illinois Department of Public Health is advising Illinoisans to take precautions to protect everyone from food-borne illnesses. Hosts can protect their guests by following basic food safety steps, including keeping hot foods hot, cold foods cold, and properly thawing frozen turkeys before roasting them. The agency advises not to leave foods at room temperature for more than two hours.

(Washington-jm) – The President has continued a long tradition of pardoning a couple of deserving turkeys. Gary Crawford reports…

(Washington-jm) – The USDA has a new forecast for 2024 milk production and prices. Gary Crawford reports…

(Champaign-jm) – Big changes are coming to Champaign, specifically in the area of North Market Street. A new water tower, hotel and 15 thousand square-foot expansion of SafeWorks are in the works.

(Paxton-jm) – The mapping sessions for the City of Paxton are complete but the work is just beginning. Community members met with representatives from the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs at Western Illinois University for 5 sessions. Community members came up with four priority groups: housing, infrastructure, business support and development and leisure and then broke into action teams based off of those groups. Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm says the full group will reconvene for a follow up session in January…

Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm.

(Mahomet-jm) – Eastbound traffic on Interstate 74 was being diverted off the highway in Mahomet yesterday due to a semi-truck fire. The fire happened at mile marker 175, just past the exit to Prairie View Road. Illinois State Police officials said both eastbound lanes were closed at the scene of the fire and traffic is being diverted off the highway at Prairie View.

(Springfield-jm) – The deadline to register assault-style weapons in Illinois is January 1, 2024, and failing to can result in criminal charges. Some officials have raised concerns because Illinois has not sent official notices to gun owners to inform them more directly of the law. Less than 3,000 gun owners have registered their assault weapons. The Illinois State Police have sent out information, such as press releases, posting on social media and having the law pop up on their website to inform people. The Governor’s office says they are confident gun owners will find the time to register their firearms and warn that failing to do so would mean breaking the law and facing consequences.

(Springfield-jm) – The 2023 harvest has confirmed it: Illinois is still No. 1 in states that produce soybeans. Early summer drought conditions did not portend well for the 2023 harvest. But the rains finally fell on Illinois, particularly in August when the soybeans need it the most. Soybean yields in Central Illinois averaged from 70 to 80 and 90 bushels per acre, with some farmers reporting 100 bushels per acre.

(Washington-jm) – Beef cattle herd contraction is still going on. Gary Crawford reports…

(Washington-jm) – It appears that Thanksgiving Day through the holiday weekend should be mostly dry weather wise - conducive to good travel conditions. Rod Bain reports…

(Undated-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that lanes that have been closed for construction will reopen for Thanksgiving travel. Non-emergency closures will be suspended from 3 p.m. today to 12:01 a.m. Monday. The following lane closures will remain in place during the holiday weekend. Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through these areas.

(Springfield-jm) – An annual report out by the state shows a record number of investigations into state agencies. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – The persistence of higher mortgage rates and a large increase in the median home sale price in October provided challenging market conditions for home sellers and buyers. Residential home sales in the Champaign County area totaled 209, down 17.7 percent from 254 sales in October of 2022. Year-to-date home sales for the Champaign County area totaled 2,236, down 15 percent from 2,645 sales in the prior year. The median home sale price in October for the Champaign County area was $218,000, an increase of 25 percent from $175,000 from October in 2022. The median is a typical market price where half the homes sold for more and half sold for less. The average home sale price for October stood at $229,662 up just 6.45 percent from $215,743 in October 2022. Houses are moving quickly, with the average home sold in 28 days in October 2023 versus 33 days in October 2022.  Inventory of homes for sale in the Champaign County area as of November 17, 2023, stood at 682 properties on the market, up from 676 properties last month. However, inventory at this time last year was 716 properties.

WPXN News Notes…

The Mighty Men of Valor Ministry will hold a free community dinner this afternoon from 12-4 at the Rantoul Recreation Center.

The Central Illinois Farm Toy Show will be held at the Parke Regency by Best Western off Towanda Barnes Road in Bloomington Friday and Saturday. 

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker signed an ethics reform plan into law that will prohibit state lawmakers from running for office again if they are convicted of certain crimes. The law also creates a task force to review eligibility for public office. Anyone convicted of a felony, bribery, perjury or other infamous crime as an elected official is now ineligible to hold any public office. Lawmakers could run for public office again if their conviction is reversed, they are pardoned or have their rights restored by the governor.

(Washington-jm) – Results are out for the American Farm Bureau Federation's annual survey for Thanksgiving meal costs, so what might consumers on average pay at the grocery stores this year? Rod Bain reports…

(Washington-jm) – There's mostly good news about the winter wheat crop in USDA's latest crop progress report. Gary Crawford reports…

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man was sentenced to prison for conspiracy to possess 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, maintaining drug-involved premises, and possessing a firearm as a felon. Phoutasone Champanine was sentenced to an aggregate of 27 years in prison. Champanine was also ordered to serve an aggregate five years of supervised release. Prosecutors say they found eight pounds of methamphetamine on his person when he was arrested during a Champaign County Street Crimes Task Force operation and for additional methamphetamine and several firearms found in places that Champanine controlled in connection with the conspiracy.

(Piatt County-jm) – A Piatt County man was sentenced to over three years in prison for four counts of bank fraud. During the 2016 growing season James Williams obtained a loan of approximately $4.6 million from participating banks First Security Bank and Gifford State Bank on behalf of his farming operation, RJW Williams Farms, Inc. The loans were collateralized by Williams’s assets, including grain. Williams defrauded the banks by concealing grain sales from the banks and by instructing employees of Archer Daniels Midland grain elevators in Niantic and Weldon to issue checks in his son’s name, without his son’s knowledge, which were then deposited into an account held jointly by Williams and his son. Williams then used the checks for his own benefit. Between October 20, 2014, and February 1, 2017, Williams caused ADM to issue approximately 22 checks totaling $540,505.35 to his son for grain that was actually sold by Williams and was collateral for Williams’s outstanding loan.

(Champaign county—jc)  Champaign County Crime Stoppers is looking for information concerning a shooting that happened in Rantoul this past April. 

Officials say the shooting happened on April 20th along Saint Andrews Circle in the village. Two people were found shot multiple times near Par Drive. 17 year old Preston Sullivan died of his injuries. An 18 year old girls was seriously hurt, but has recovered from those wounds.  Anyone with information is asked to call Rantoul Police or Champaign County Crime Stoppers. That number is 217-373-8477.  Tips can be anonymous and you could receive a cash reward.

(Watseka–jc) Thanksgiving is several days away.  You need time to thaw the bird before you cook. That is the advice of Iroquois County Public Health Department Official Eric Ceci…

Iroquois County Public Health Department Official Eric Ceci  (See-see).

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton’s Christmas tree is up. The tree was put up Monday morning at the intersection of State and Market. This year's tree was donated by Randall West, 393 W Franklin. Paxton Service Club solicited donors and inspected trees with EIEC. This year's tree will also feature brand-new LED lights donated by John Grove. This year’s tree-lighting ceremony sponsored by PRIDE in Paxton will be at 7 p.m. Friday with PRIDE in Paxton’s annual Christmas Parade set for 1:30 p.m. Saturday in downtown Paxton. The parade will be held in honor and remembrance of the late Teri Hancock, Lineup for the parade will be on Taft and Orleans streets, with the parade moving east on Orleans Street, then north on Market Street, before ending at the intersection of Market and Pine streets.

(Champaign–dm)  –  Traveling for the Thanksgiving holiday. Do you feel tired after the  plane ride? Tim Ditman of O-S-F HealthCare has tips to turn off jet lag.

(Springfield-jm) – Officials at the Illinois State Board of Education say they’re receiving more requests for increased funding for next year than the state could possibly afford, and they’re bracing for the possibility that budgets will start to tighten in the near future. The requested increases totaled just over $1.7 billion. The largest of those was for an increase in Evidence-Based Funding dollars. That’s the formula that lawmakers approved in 2017 aimed at eventually bringing all districts up to an adequate level of funding. Under the law, the state is required to add at least $350 million in new funding each year to its preK-12 spending, with the bulk of that money earmarked for districts that are the least adequately funded. During the budget hearings, however, advocates pushed for an even bigger increase – roughly $550 million.

(Washington-jm) – The USDA reports another week of rapid corn harvesting. Gary Crawford reports…

(Washington-jm) – Turkey prices are already close to or below a year ago, but last-minute holiday food shoppers may see even lower prices. Gary Crawford reports…

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Fire Department is reminding people to take safety precautions this holiday season. With all the cooking for Thanksgiving, they emphasize that kitchen safety is a top priority. This includes making sure that the stove and countertops are clean, smoke alarms are checked, and people are always being conscious of their surroundings.

(Urbana-jm) – Urbana officers responded to multiple calls reporting a potential robbery of a resident in the vicinity of 1200 S. Vine Street Sunday afternoon. Officers discovered a 21-year-old man from Champaign who had sustained a gunshot wound to the side. The injured individual was promptly transported to a local hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. Preliminary investigation indicates the injured individual was directly involved in an incident, which occurred immediately prior, at an apartment complex in the 1200 block of South Vine Street. Officers learned that following the initial altercation, the wounded person fled towards Urbana Middle School and High School, with another party discharging a firearm in pursuit.

(Paxton–-jc) The Ford County Veterans Assistance Program, based in Paxton, is spearheading efforts to help get needy kids some toys for Christmas. The local organization is partnering with the U S Marine Corp in their “Toys for Tots'' drive. 

Ford County Veterans Assistance Program Director Rebecca Rutledge says they want to fill the need in the Ford County area…

Ford County Veterans Assistance Program Director Rebecca Rutledge.

(Urbana-jm) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture will be providing a grant for a team of researchers from the University of Illinois, Cornell University, and Texas A&M University to try and determine the factors that caused a deadly dust storm on Interstate 55 south of Springfield on May 1. 

(Chicago-jm) – Chicago has introduced its budget that includes more funding for the state's migrant crisis; however, there are questions regarding whether the funding will be enough. The state has seen over 24,000 migrants arrive over the last 15 months. In response, Chicago has set aside an additional $150 million to help shelter and care for the influx of noncitizen arrivals. Mayor Brandon Johnson says this is not a Chicago problem in which they should be left on their own. Johnson said he has already reached out to federal officials about providing extra funding. Chicago projects a budget gap of $538 million for the coming fiscal year. According to NBC Chicago, $200 million of the gap comes from care for noncitizen arrivals, and that $56 million went to Favorite Healthcare Staffing, a Kansas-based company that has been tasked with taking care of the noncitizens. Some of their employees were being paid up to $195 per hour. Chicago is also using the funding for 16 warming buses to keep the noncitizens warm during the winter, and the city has set aside $29 million for military-grade tents.  Johnson said his expectation is that the federal government will step up and help the city.

(Rantoul–jc)  Marguerite Bailey of Rantoul is running to succeed her current boss, State Representative Mike Marron of the 104th district.  Marron announced in July that he will not be seeking re-election. The 104th district includes portions of Champaign and Vermilion counties, and Marguerite has already been serving the district as a legislative assistant under  Marron for the past two years. Prior to that, she worked for Vermillion County for ten years in the State’s Attorney and County Board offices. She was also elected to serve as trustee in the Village of Potomac for eight years. Bailey will officially kick off her campaign in early December .

(Springfield-jm) – The March of Dimes released its annual report card, giving the U.S. a D+ when it comes to preterm birth rates. The organization grades the country, as well as individual states, on factors that play into the health of moms and babies. And it's not any better on a local level. Illinois received the same grade as the country in the annual report on preterm birth rates. What's behind the high rate? One reason is the lack of prenatal care in areas known as “maternal care deserts”. Here in Illinois, there are other disparities that also factor in. One is socioeconomic. Also, Illinois has an increased drug use, especially methamphetamine.

(Springfield-jm) – A statute meant to protect the public from dangerous criminals is expiring at the end of the year. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City talks about the bill…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – Legislation changing the minimum amount of coverage farm mutual insurance companies are required to provide, supported by State Senator Paul Faraci of Champaign, was signed into law Friday. Senate Bill 765 requires farm mutual insurance companies to have and maintain adequate catastrophic reinsurance, rather than unlimited catastrophic reinsurance. This bill limits the company’s exposure to any loss to 20% of its policyholders’ surplus. The Illinois Department of Insurance had previously interpreted the Farm Mutual Insurance Company Act as requiring unlimited catastrophic aggregate reinsurance coverage. This would have led to 44 farm mutual insurance companies in Illinois being unable to offer coverage this year under the requirement, potentially leaving over 51,000 policyholders uninsured. Under the new law, companies will allow broader access to reinsurance products and risk capital, helping to avoid disruptions in the farm mutual community.

(Champaign County-jm) – The Salvation Army of Champaign County has officially started “ringing” in the holiday season with their Red Kettle campaign. You know the holiday season is here when you see people standing outside of stores ringing bells. Bell-ringers from the Salvation Army are now out raising money for their annual Christmas fundraiser. This year’s fundraising goal is $470,000. The group is still in need of bell-ringing volunteers.

(Washington-jm) – What's the best technique for thawing out that frozen holiday turkey? Gary Crawford reports…

(Vermilion County-jm) – The Vermilion County Animal Shelter is seeing their rescue stretched thin by a recent boom of homeless animals. Now, they’re asking for your help. The last couple of weeks, the shelter has seen their numbers rise to a total of 500 animals in their care. The shelter is asking anyone looking for a pet to consider adoption.

(Springfield-jm) – Hunters in Illinois harvested a preliminary statewide total of 262 wild turkeys during the 2023 fall firearm turkey season. The 2023 total compares with the statewide turkey harvest of 267 in 2022. The record harvest was set in 2005 when 1,218 birds were harvested. This year, 1,711 regular fall firearm season permits were sold compared to 1,727 last year. The highest permit sales total on record was in 2007 with 4,968 permits sold. Fall turkey firearm season was open in 56 of Illinois’ 102 counties. The top counties for harvest this year were Jo Daviess, 23; Marion, 14; Williamson, 14; Franklin, 13; and Pope, 12.

(Undated-jm) – U.S. News & World Report is out with their annual nursing home ratings, and many Illinois facilities didn’t make the grade. The report looked at both short and long term care at 15,000 nursing homes around the country. The facilities were evaluated on patient and resident outcomes, such as infection rates; staffing levels; reliance on antipsychotic drugs; health inspection results and other indicators of quality.  Nearly one in five were recognized as “Best Nursing Homes.” Over 400 nursing homes consistently failed to meet current federal requirements mandating that a registered nurse be available for at least eight hours a day, seven days a week. 700 nursing homes in Illinois were evaluated and 311 of them got a 1 or a 2 on a 5-point scale in our rating, and 82 got a 4 out of 5. Only 39 Illinois nursing homes received 5 out of 5 points,

(Paxton-jm) – The Paxton mapping sessions are over. Now action teams are putting their focus on goals within the priorities of leisure, infrastructure, business support and development and housing. City Alderman Rob Pacey helped spearhead the mapping effort. He shares his thoughts on how things will move forward…

Paxton Mapping Spokesperson and Alderman Rob Pacey.

(Urbana-jm) – A 19 year old has been charged with attempted murder for a shooting Thursday in Urbana. Erick Estrada was arrested and charged with attempted murder, aggravated unlawful use of a firearm, aggravated battery with a firearm and mob violence. Police were called around 4 p.m. and told three vehicles had followed each other to the 200 block of Apple Tree Drive before shooting at one another. Deputies found a 21-year-old victim with a gunshot wound to the neck. He was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. A 16 year old was arrested however, he was turned over to his parents.

(Urbana-jm) – Carle Hospital officials said they are seeing a rise in patient care, and the reason people are coming the most is respiratory illnesses. Carle says they’ve been super busy the last 2-3 weeks seeing over 300 patients a day regularly in the ER. It’s almost double the number of patients at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.  Respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, RSV and the flu are bringing people to the ER. Runny nose, mild cough, aches and pains can be treated with over-the-counter medication. Once those symptoms become elevated you should seek medical attention including for shortness of breath, chest pains and a fever for several days.

(Washington-jm) – Can a turkey that's been frozen for years still be safe to cook and eat? Gary Crawford reports…

(Rantoul-dm)  2 new restaurants recently opened in Rantoul.  Duos recently reopened under new management.  They feature the regular menu plus a Mexican menu.  Also just opening today is a new restaurant “Van Fam” owned by the former  manager of Taffies in Champaign. Van Fam is located in the former Pizza Hut building.

(Paxton-dm)--It’s Toys for Tots time and Ford County Veterans Center Administrator Rebecca Rutledge tells us how to sign up to receive toys.

Ford County Veterans Center Administrator Rebecca Rutledge.  You can drop off new toys at the State Street Mall in Paxton by December 15th.  Toys will be distributed December 18th.

(Undated-jm) – There are some meetings around the WPXN listening area tonight. Paxton will hold a special meeting at 7 where an amusement tax, establishing the number of liquor licenses per classification and approving a mutual aid agreement with Gifford are on the table. In Gilman, the Iroquois West school board will meet at 7 where they will hear a presentation on their tax levy, discuss health/life safety bonds, hear a building update and open house and discuss tax rates in the county. The Cissna Park school board also meets tonight at 7.

(Springfield-jm) – As Illinoisans across the state prepare for this weekend’s firearm deer season, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is urging hunters to use safety harnesses when hunting from tree stands in the field. Tree stands are the No. 1 source of hunting-related accidents and fatalities in Illinois. So far during the fall 2023 hunting season, which includes archery deer season, Illinois Conservation Police have documented two hunting-related fatalities, both of which involved tree stands. The 2023 firearm deer season dates are this weekend and also November 30-December 3.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced Thursday that the unemployment rate increased to 4.6% in October. The national unemployment rate was 3.9% in October, slightly up from the previous month. Based on preliminary data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nonfarm payrolls in Illinois decreased by 15,000 last month.

(Paxton-jm) – The 5 mapping sessions planning the future of Paxton over the next 10-30 years are over. The sessions were put on by Western Illinois University’s Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs. Program Manager Gisela Hamm recaps the final session…

Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm. While the mapping sessions are over, the work is just beginning for the action groups. They will meet over the next several weeks and then reconvene with Hamm and the rest of the mapping group on January 11th.

(Urbana-jm) – A request approved by the University of Illinois Board of Trustees seeks an increase in state general funds appropriations of $82.7 million. The total operating funds request of $780.5 million represents an 11.9% increase from the current year’s $697.8 million appropriation. The increase would support four goals: enhancing student success; recruitment and retention of faculty members and staff; addressing inflation and other cost increases; and technological infrastructure needs.

(Hoopeston –jc)  Former Hoopeston resident and now author Dennis Noyes (noise) was back in his hometown on Wednesday to promote a new book he authored. The retired journalist says the book is called Yonders-Illinois..

Former Hoopeston Resident and Author Dennis Noyes. . The book is available at BoxCar Books and Vinyl in downtown Hoopeston. 

(Vermilion County-jm) – Vermilion County has completed its tax deed proceedings on real estate properties that were delinquent for 2019 and mobile homes that were delinquent for 2020 and prior real estate taxes. Vermilion County, as Trustee, will now offer for sale approximately 434 real estate properties and 98 mobile homes at a public auction at the Jewell Whyte VFW Post #728, 8 Pine Street, Danville, Illinois at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, December 11, 2023. Bidding will start at $750.00 per item. Bidders are encouraged to attend the auction sale. While written bids are acceptable, the Auction Department of the Vermilion County Tax Agent’s Office, P.O. Box 96, Edwardsville, Illinois 62025, must receive them by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, December 4, 2023.

(Washington-jm) – If you think beef cattle prices are high now, just wait until next year. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Regulators at the Illinois Commerce Commission on Thursday unanimously approved rate hikes for four major natural gas utilities, but the little-known regulatory body’s decision was perhaps more notable for what it rejected. The five-member board flexed its regulatory muscle, slashing the utilities’ requested rate increases by as much as 50 percent. Rates will still rise next year, but not nearly as much as they would have if the commission had approved the utilities’ initial requests.  Commissioners lowered Ameren’s initial ask by about 50.8 percent and cut Nicor’s request by 30.3 percent. The commission lowered the expected rate hikes by leveraging one of its most powerful tools: deciding companies’ profits through their “return on equity” or ROE. Ameren and Nicor both requested ROE rates above 10 percent. But consumer advocates pushed back on those asks. For example, the Citizens Utility Board, one of several groups that argued for lower rates, requested a range centered on 9.5 percent for Ameren and 9.4 percent for Nicor. But in a surprising move, the Commission set rates in the cases at or below that recommendation. Nicor Gas will operate with a 9.51 percent ROE, and Ameren will operate with a 9.44 percent ROE. 

(Springfield-jm) – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced $25 million in available grant funding through the Back to Business NewBiz program. Following state recovery programming for businesses totaling $1.5 billion, the latest American Rescue Plan Act -funded opportunity is designed to provide additional support for businesses in hard-hit sectors who launched during the pandemic. Businesses that launched in 2020 or 2021 and remain in operation have faced significant impacts during the pandemic, but they have not been eligible for other federal or state relief programming since they were not operational prior to the pandemic. Applications are open from November 30 through January 11, 2024.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois lawmakers failed to extend the Invest in Kids scholarship program during the fall veto session. 53rd District State Senator Tom Benentt of Gibson City shares his frustration over the issue…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Urbana-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that a pair of police responses in Urbana on Thursday were for a shooting and the arrest of two suspects. Deputies said shots were fired near Apple Tree Drive and one person was hurt as a result. They were taken to Carle Hospital for treatment; there is no update on the victim’s condition. Two people were later taken into custody at the nearby Blain’s Farm and Fleet, deputies added.

(Gibson City-dm) – The holiday season is fast approaching and the festivities start off this Saturday in Gibson City with their Lighted Christmas celebration.  Activities kick off at 10:00am and include a winter clothing drive, horse drawn wagon rides, face painting, kids activities, food vendors and  movies.  Committee member Justin Carpenter tells us about the Lighted Christmas Parade.

Justin Carpenter with the Gibson City Lighted Christmas celebration

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign Police say shootings are down 73% since 2021, when the city saw record-setting violence. But he wants to see this trend continue. He's asked city council for new and expanded police technology to help officers make arrests and secure convictions. The department is asking for 62 license plate readers , 16 more than they already have, four Falcon Flex license readers, 42 squad car Integration systems and 18 public safety camera boxes. This would cost about $475,000, $233,500 in one-time installation costs and another $241,890 in recurring costs for ALPR subscriptions through Flock.

(Washington-jm) – Hog producers could see some improvement in hog prices in 2024. Gary Crawford reports…

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

St Paul's School in Woodworth is hosting a fish fry at the school.  Carry outs begin at 4pm and Dine In starts at 5pm. Proceeds benefit Christian Education.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry tonight from 4:30-7 at the Legion Hall at Durham Park. Cost is $12 and includes fish, fries, baked beans, green beans and coleslaw.

The Buckley Lion’s club will host Bingo night tonight at the Buckley American Legion. Food served from 5-6pm Bigo begins at 6:15. 

The 40th annual Gifford State Bank Country Christmas Craft Show will take place Saturday and Sunday at Gordyville USA. Hours Saturday 8-5 Sunday 9-3.

The Farmer City American Legion will hold their Christmas Expo on Saturday.

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

The 2023 Gibson City Lighted Christmas Parade will take place Saturday at 6:30 pm.

The 2023 Farmer City Christmas Parade will take place Sunday at 2pm. The theme is A Gingerbread House Christmas.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois is one of a dozen states in the country that are at risk of eliminating or scaling back programs when the federal government’s COVID-19 stimulus package expires in two years. The Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds were handed out to states, cities and counties that saw tax revenues plummet during the pandemic due to government-imposed lockdowns that shut down businesses deemed to be "nonessential." As detailed in a report by the Volcker Alliance and authored by Beverly Bunch, states must confront the fiscal cliffs they could face if they allocated the recovery aid to recurring programs rather than one-time costs stemming from the pandemic. The report notes that 38 states primarily used the federal money for one-time or short-term purposes, such as capital projects, repaying federal loans to their depleted unemployment trust funds and providing short-term assistance to businesses and households. But 12 states, including Illinois, were flagged for using the federal funds to cover recurring costs that were equivalent to a significant 2.5% or more of their fiscal 2022 general fund expenditures. As a result, the report said Illinois faces a moderate to elevated risk of encountering that fiscal cliff if it doesn't find money to replace those federal dollars.

(Washington-jm) – USDA’s annual look at trends in rural America indicates a trend of increased overall rural population. Rod Bain reports…

(Gibson City-jm) – People living in Gibson City can rest a little easier when it comes to flooding. This week, the town heard the results of a study that was done on the city’s sewer system. In 2021, Gibson City got hit with severe flooding that damaged the drains. It’s still causing issues. It will cost about $3 million to $4 million to fix everything. They plan on using grants to pay for the upgrades.

(Undated-jm) – Today is the Great American Smokeout. The goal is to help smokers quit smoking or using tobacco. The American Cancer Society along with the Iroquois County Public Health Department says there are resources available for those who want to quit.

(Paxton-jm) – The 5 mapping sessions planning the future of Paxton over the next 10-30 years are over. The sessions were put on by Western Illinois University’s Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs. Program Manager Gisela Hamm recaps the fourth session…

Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm. Tomorrow we will recap the final session

(Ford County-jm) – The superintendents of the three school districts in Ford County are considering a 1 percent sales tax referendum in 2024 that would go towards hiring school resource officers and mental health providers. PBL, GCMS and Tri-Point school district superintendents hope to have a decision on whether to proceed with the referendum by the end of the year or early in 2024.

(Paxton–jc)  Businesses in the State Street Mall in Paxton are planning A Christmas Open House on December 2nd.  Spokesperson Rebecca Rutledge says

State Street Mall spokesperson Rebecca Rutledge. The toys for tots drive is on-going at the Veterans Center in the Mall now through mid December. Just drop off the new toys to any business in the State Street Mall. 

(Paxton–jc)  –The date for the 20-24 Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Toy Show has been set. The date is Saturday February 10th at the high school says P-B-L F F A Advisor Kirsten Wyatt…

Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Advisor Kirsten Wyatt

(Springfield-jm) – Challenges against Illinois’ gun ban continue in courts up and down the federal judiciary.  Governor J.B. Pritzker enacted the ban on more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities on January 10. Lawsuits were filed in state and federal courts shortly after the measure was enacted. Outcomes since then range from a preliminary injunction against the law being issued in federal court being stayed, thousands of temporary restraining orders being issued in state courts being vacated, and continued filings challenging the law on Second and 14th amendment grounds among other issues. On Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court docketed a case brought by Illinois state Representative Dan Caulkins, of Decatur, challenging the state’s gun and magazine ban. Separately in the Southern District of Illinois federal court Tuesday, a judge denied the state’s motion to delay responding to plaintiffs seeking an injunction against the Jan. 1 registry deadline. Also this week, a second separate motion was filed by plaintiffs out of Naperville to have the entire Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals review the case.

(Washington-jm) – Food price inflation is continuing to abate. Gary Crawford reports…

(Danville-jm) – A man is dead after a house fire took place in Danville on November 10. According to the Vermilion County Coroner, Jane McFadden, a house fire in the 70 block of Kist Street claimed the life of Kenneth R. McQueen, 77, of Danville. The fire is still under investigation.

(Gibson City-jm) – The Gibson Area Music Foundation invites all to attend Celebrate the Season, formerly The Messiah, on Sunday, December 3, 2023. The musical event featuring local singing talent will start at 3 pm and be held at the Gibson City Bible Church, Route 47, Gibson City.

(Ford County-jm) – Impacting Farm Legacy will once again be holding a session this fall to focus on farm legacy. The session will be held this evening at Engelbrecht Farms in rural Paxton. Spokesperson Cheryl Mitchell talks about the team you should have when planning your farm's future…

Impacting Farm Legacy Spokesperson Cheryl Mitchell. Again the session will be held this evening at Engelbrecht Farms in rural Paxton.

(Hoopeston-jm) – A Rantoul woman was arrested in Hoopeston for passing counterfeit money. Kristin Hewerdine was arrested after police were called to the Hoopeston McDonalds for a person passing the counterfeit bills. Hewerdine was taken to the Vermilion County jail.

WPXN News Notes…

Clove Alliance Cosmic Bingo will take place today at the Expo Center at the Kankakee Fairgrounds. Doors open at 4:30 with Bingo at 6:30. Tickets are $35.

The Paxton Emergency Response Service will hold their all you can eat chicken and noodle supper tonight from 5-7 pm. Cost is $11 for adults, kids 6-13 $6. Meal includes chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes, green beans, dessert and drink. Deliveries are available in town by calling 217-202-6441.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry on Friday from 4:30-7 at the Legion Hall at Durham Park. Cost is $12 and includes fish, fries, baked beans, green beans and coleslaw.

The Cadillac in Paxton will make a special concert announcement at 8am Friday morning.

(Springfield-jm) – A new study shows that Illinois saw a sharp increase in deaths from car crashes from 2012 to 2021. According to the study by the Atlanta-based law firm John Foy and Associates, Illinois saw over a 37% increase in deaths from automobile crashes, the third largest increase in the country. Only Indiana and Oregon saw a larger increase. The year with the highest rate of deadly crashes in Illinois was 2021, which had about 16 deadly crashes per 100,000 licensed drivers.

(Washington-jm) – Corn price prospects are down as growers harvest a record large crop, larger than many had expected. Gary Crawford reports…

(Vermilion County-jm) – Illinois Senator Paul Faraci is hosting a sock donation drive for Vermilion County shelters and organizations. Socks are the least-donated clothing item at homeless shelters, though they are often in high demand, especially throughout the cold. Donations are being accepted at Faraci's Danville office, Robinson Chiropractic in Danville and Westville village hall.

(Charleston-jm) – After suspending the men's swim team competition for the fall 2023 semester, Eastern Illinois University announced that members of the men's swimming team were involved in conduct that violates EIU's hazing policy. The university said that the initial report of hazing was made by coach Jonathan Jordan, who is in his second season as head coach. The investigation confirmed that Jordan had no prior or tacit awareness of the hazing. First-year student-athletes in the swim program were made to participate in activities characterized as "traditions." In addition, the investigation found that some swimmers created a team culture "promoting excessive and underage alcohol consumption that required a recent medical intervention for a first-year student-athlete." Men's swimming will immediately resume at the university with ongoing oversight from the department of Intercollegiate Athletics. Competition will resume in January after the team participates in anti-hazing and alcohol abuse workshops. Similar trainings will be held for all EIU intercollegiate athletic teams.

(Paxton-jm) – The mapping sessions for the city of Paxton are done but the work ahead isn’t over. The sessions were put on by the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs at Western Illinois University. Program Manager Gisela Hamm recaps sessions two and three…

Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm. Tomorrow we will recap session four.

(Ford County-jm) – Rankin and Paxton firefighters were called to a field fire late Tuesday morning. Crews received the call near 2500 east and 200 north around 11:30.

(Springfield-jm) – The state is working to lift the moratorium on nuclear power. A new bill was brought forward during last week’s fall veto session says 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Undated-jm) – Thanksgiving is next week and Illinois consumers may find themselves spending more on meal staples for the third year in a row. A report from the Consumer Energy Alliance said consumers will have to dig deeper into their wallets to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal with friends and family for the third time in a row. Prices for Thanksgiving meal staples have increased tremendously. Including ham, canned goods like cranberries, pumpkin, and green beans as well as russet and sweet potatoes. Consumer Energy Alliance president David Holt says the price of energy is the primary driver of food inflation. Saying that due to farmers having to spend more on energy, the price of food has gone up.

(Washington-jm) – U.S. wheat price prospects are continuing to fall. Gary Crawford reports…

(Champaign County-jm) – Voters in Champaign County will have another place to drop off their ballots next year. Champaign County Clerk & Recorder Aaron Ammons, with the help of the Champaign Park District, cut the ribbon Tuesday morning for a new ballot drop box at the Martens Center. The Champaign fitness center on the north side opened last year. The Martens Center joins 12 other places throughout the county with ballot drop-off boxes, including the Illini Union, Rantoul Village Hall, Savoy Recreation Center, and Mahomet Public Library.

(Danville-jm) – A man formerly from Danville has been sentenced to eight years in prison after pleading guilty to child pornography. Gilberto Sanchez pleaded guilty to one count of Child Pornography, a class X felony. Following his incarceration, Sanchez will serve three years of mandatory supervised release. The Court heard evidence that a cyber tip was sent to the Illinois State Police regarding child pornography.  After an investigation, Sanchez was located and interviewed by ISP agents. Sanchez told the agents he had received child pornography, but that he immediately deleted the images. Sanchez consented to a search of his phone, and the agents located several images of child pornography that included images of children under the age of 13.

(Paxton–jc)  With the 20-23 “mapping meetings” complete the four main groups for Paxton Progress will meet and look at options, projects, and ideas to improve and plan for the future of the city of Paxton. Paxton City Alderman and Mapping Spokesperson Rob Pacey says that means to look for help from local, state and national agencies…

Paxton City Alderman and Mapping Spokesperson Rob Pacey

(Champaign County-jm) – The Champaign County Salvation Army has announced the start of their annual Red Kettle Campaign, raising funds for vital social programming in the community. This season’s funding goal is $470,000, and the proceeds will go to feeding the hungry, providing aid to the homeless shelter and to local veterans, providing Christmas gifts to families struggling to make ends meet and so much more. There will be a total of 90 red kettles in Champaign County.

(Ford County-jm) – Impacting Farm Legacy will once again be holding a session this fall to focus on farm legacy. The session will be held tomorrow at Engelbrecht Farms in rural Paxton. Spokesperson Cheryl Mitchell says this is an informational meeting to get farm families thinking about the future…

Impacting Farm Legacy Spokesperson Cheryl Mitchell. Again the session will be held tomorrow night at Engelbrecht Farms in rural Paxton.

WPXN News Notes…

Clove Alliance Cosmic Bingo will take place Thursday, November 16th at the Expo Center at the Kankakee Fairgrounds. Doors open at 4:30 with Bingo at 6:30. Tickets are $35.

The Paxton Emergency Response Service will hold their all you can eat chicken and noodle supper on Thursday, November 16th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $11 for adults, kids 6-13 $6. Meal includes chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes, green beans, dessert and drink. Deliveries are available in town by calling 217-202-6441.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry on Friday, November 17th from 4:30-7 at the Legion Hall at Durham Park. Cost is $12 and includes fish, fries, baked beans, green beans and coleslaw.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois residents are required to register their assault weapons by January 1, 2024, but some law enforcement say the state has not done enough to let them know. Assault weapons can no longer be sold in Illinois, but ones bought in the past can remain legal if they are registered with the Illinois State Police. But those numbers are currently low. Illinois gun owners who don’t register their assault weapons by January 1st can face criminal penalties and potential jail time. So far, less than 3,000 people have done so, out of 2.4 million FOID card owners. Some in law enforcement say the state hasn’t told people about this new law well enough.

(Washington-jm) – What are the price prospects for the new U.S. soybean crop? Gary Crawford reports…

(Champaign-jm) – Parkland College’s Collision Repair Program will begin giving students real life training through local businesses. Apprenticeships with collision repair shops will now account for half of their learning. The plan is to focus on work in the classroom for the first eight weeks. Next, the students will pair with garages so they can work on cars firsthand, 40 hours a week.

(Paxton-jm) – The 5 mapping sessions planning the future of Paxton over the next 10-30 years are over. The sessions were put on by Western Illinois University’s Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs. Program Manager Gisela Hamm recaps the first session…

Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm. Tomorrow we will recap sessions two and three.

(Champaign-jm) – The State Farm Center is proud to announce the addition of late-night icon Jay Leno, with special guest Arsenio Hall, to its 2024 spring lineup. The duo will perform on Saturday, April 13 at 7:30 pm. Tickets go on sale to the public this Friday, November 17 at noon.

(Paxton–jc)  The Ford County Veterans Assistance Program is launching it’s help with the Marine Corp Toys-for-Tots program that will net new toys for area kids this Christmas. Ford County Veterans Assistance Program Director Rebecca Rutledge says they are collecting new toys today now through mid-December…

Ford County Veterans Assistance Program Director Rebbecca Rutledge.

(Gifford–jc)  It’s number 39. The 39th annual Gifford Community  Christmas Craft Show is set for this Saturday and Sunday at Gordyville USA just west of Gifford. Over 300 vendors will be ready for holiday shopping at the annual event. The Gifford Community Craft Show hours are Saturday from 8am until 5pm and Sunday from 9am until 3pm. A Harvest lunch will be provided starting at 11am each day and pictures with Santa will also be part of the two day event. 

(Undated–jm)  –The Rantoul village board and Paxton city councils both meet tonight. In Rantoul, village board members will consider a construction agreement for a new boat ramp at Heritage Lake, an engineering agreement for a shared use path along Veterans Parkway and a contract agreement for flock license plate readers. In Paxton, city council members will consider a new CAD system for the police department, hear updates on the new playground at Pells Park and rezone 27 properties.

(Springfield-jm) – Seven organizations have been awarded state Habitat Fund Project grants totaling nearly $667,000 from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. This grant program enhances game and non-game wildlife habitat through projects developed by non-profit organizations and governmental entities. Funding for the Illinois Habitat Fund Special Wildlife Funds Grant Program comes from the sale of habitat stamps to sportsmen and sportswomen. Locally, Pheasants Forever – $100,000 to restore 20 wetland basins within prairie grassland habitat in northeast, east-central, and west-central Illinois counties. Grantee match is $215,955.20.

(Washington-jm) – Good weather speeds up corn and soybean harvesting. Gary Crawford reports…

(Vermilion County-jm) – Some Illinois environmental groups are raising concerns about a proposed expansion of a mountain bike trail at Kickapoo State Recreation Area.  They are asking the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to either cancel the project or move it to more suitable areas within the park. The Prairie Rivers Network and the Illinois Sierra Club says there are several endangered plants and dozens of bird species that breed in the area.

(Paxton–jc)  Paxton Progress is the name of the new group of citizens working to help the city grow and prosper from the recent “mapping” meetings in the city. Paxton City Councilman and Mapping Spokesperson Rob Pacey says now the Paxton Progress groups will meet and put some ideas into action…

Paxton City Councilman and Mapping spokesperson Rob Pacey.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is seeking assistance from the public regarding an ongoing homicide investigation. On November 17, 2014, at 10 p.m., Damian Henderson was believed to be shot and killed in the 100 block of Forsythia Drive in Champaign. The following morning at 8:13 a.m., officers were dispatched to this location for a welfare check where Henderson was found unresponsive in a vehicle with an apparent gunshot wound. Anyone with information is asked to call Champaign County Crimestoppers at 217-373-TIPS.

(Paxton–jc)  Three Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Members received a high award at the National Convention earlier this month in Indianapolis. Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Advisor Kirsten Wyatt says three have their “American Degree”...

Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Advisor Kirsten Wyatt.

(East Central–jc)  Mark your calendars for the 20-23 Ford County Santa Road Rally. Santa Claus will be stopping by some town halls and community centers in Ford County in mid-December. The event takes place on Saturday December 16th and starts in Elliott at 10-30am then moves to Sibley. The rally will be at Melvin at noon, Roberts at 12-25, then Piper City at 1pm. The rally has three more stops. Its Kempton at 2pm, Stelle at 2-35 and Cabery at 3pm  The rally is sponsored by Ford County E-M-A.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Board of Education has announced the income eligibility guidelines for free and reduced-price meals at childcare centers and homes participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and administered by ISBE. In fiscal year 2023, sponsors participating in the program served more than 35.9 million meals and more than 21.6 million snacks. All participating childcare centers and day care homes must provide meals to enrolled children at no additional charge.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill that would lift a moratorium on new nuclear reactors in Illinois has passed the Senate. State Senator Sue Rezin’s legislation would end the 1987 prohibition on new nuclear operations in favor of small modular reactors. Instead of seeking a vote to override the governor’s veto of an earlier bill, Rezin introduced the new plan that would reduce the allowable size of small modular reactors.

(Springfield-jm) – Senate Republicans are calling for the Pritzker Administration to address issues within state government. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign City Council awarded about $2.3 million dollars from the American Rescue Plan Act to 9 organizations to support its' Gun Violence Reduction Blueprint. Champaign Police Department and it said that shootings are down from 129 in 2022 to 59 so far in 2023.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man was convicted for possession of child pornography at the United States Courthouse in Urbana. A federal jury returned a guilty verdict against Edward Brown. During two days of testimony, the government presented evidence to establish that Brown was in possession of a phone with several child pornography images on it. The evidence showed the minors depicted in the images were under the age of 12 years. Brown was already serving a term of supervised release for another child pornography offense. At sentencing, Brown faces statutory penalties of up to 20 years imprisonment, a maximum life term of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. His sentencing has been set for March 8, 2024.

(Washington-jm) – The USDA last week announced a new initiative designed to support and expand markets for our country's specialty crop industry. Rod Bain reports…

(Urbana-jm) – A 17-year-old is under arrest in Urbana after police said he fled from a traffic stop in possession of a gun. Officials with the Urbana Police Department said on Facebook that just before 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, an officer pulled a car over for driving through a stop sign. The driver came to a stop and remained inside the car, but the sole passenger got out and ran away. An officer eventually caught up to the teen and arrested him. The teen, who was not identified due to his age, is said to have a history of gun-related charges and was on parole at the time. A search of the route the teen took while running later resulted in a loaded gun being found. The 17 year old is charged with two counts of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon.

(Springfield-jm) – In the wake of a Carlinville funeral home allegedly mishandling dozens of human remains, an Illinois lawmaker has introduced legislation that would further regulate the funeral home industry. State Senator Doris Turner’s bill would create new protocols to protect families who have lost family members. The measure would establish an identification tagging system for all human remains and track them from death to burial or return to family.

(Manteno-jm) – A rezoning hearing for the Gotion battery plant in Manteno has been moved to accommodate an anticipated large turnout. Officials have shifted the venue from the community center to an elementary school. Initially set for November 14, the rescheduled meeting on November 21 will allow public input on the Chinese company’s controversial rezoning application to pave the way for a new electric vehicle battery factory.

(Paxton-jm) – The mapping sessions for the city of Paxton are over but the work is just beginning. The mapping sessions were put on by Western Illinois University’s Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs. Program Manager Gisela Hamm talks about the purpose of the mapping groups…

Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm. Over the next several days, we’ll recap each session from beginning to where we are now.

(Urbana-jm) – Carle Hospital said it saw more patients this past week because respiratory infections were on the rise. The flu and COVID-19 are some of those illnesses they’ve seen increase. Carle said they’ve borrowed beds from their partners in Peoria because of the increase.

(Gibson City-jm) – Gibson City police are looking for a person that struck the city’s Christmas tree and drove off over the weekend. Security camera video shows a dark colored SUV running into the tree and driving off. There’s no word on how much damage was caused.

(Washington-jm) – Grain and oilseed markets lost ground last week in reaction to a surprisingly large USDA corn crop forecast. Gary Crawford reports…

(Urbana-jm) – University of Illinois Police arrested a suspect in connection to several cases of burglary and theft. Police said James A. Algee, 56, was arrested as a result of investigations into three cases throughout October. U of I Police arrested Algee on charges of possession of stolen credit cards, wire fraud and theft.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Human Services is warning residents about a scam involving the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. A spokesperson with the agency said the scammers have targeted both SNAP and non-SNAP recipients around the state. Officials said IDHS will never call or text asking for anyone’s information like their PIN number, their Link card number or other personal information. Officials recommend Link card holders change their PIN monthly.

(Washington-jm) – Fall harvested crops reflect a month-over-month rise in production forecasts, per USDA's November Crop Production Report. Rod Bain reports…

(Rural Paxton-jm) – Paxton firefighters were called to a structure fire in rural Paxton Thursday evening. The call came in a little after 5 for the fire southeast of Paxton. The fire was a controlled burn that got out of hand. 

(Rantoul-jm) – A federal jury found a Rantoul man guilty of possessing child pornography on Thursday. Prosecutors said Edward Brown was convicted after a two-day trial at the U.S. Courthouse in Urbana. His sentencing has been scheduled for March 8, 2024, and he faces up to 20 years in prison. Evidence presented during trial showed that Brown, while on parole for another child pornography offense, was found to be in possession of an unauthorized phone that had several images of child pornography on it. The children in those images were under the age of 12.

(Paxton–jc)  –  Veteran’s Day is Saturday and one local Vets Center along with the school band is hosting a Veteran’s Day event. 10am on Friday is the time for the Veteran’s Event at Paxton Buckley Loda High School. Ford County Veterans Assistance Center Director Rebecca Rutledge says the concert is at the high school and the public is invited…

Ford County Veterans Assistance Center Director Rebecca Rutledge.

(Undated-jm) – U.S. Department of Agriculture Illinois State Director Betsy Dirksen Londrigan announced USDA Rural Development is awarding an additional $10 million in loans and grants to help agricultural producers and rural business owners make energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy investments to lower energy costs, generate new income, and strengthen the resiliency of their operations. The Department continues to accept REAP applications and will hold funding competitions quarterly through September 30th, 2024.

(Bloomington–dm-jc)  The Illinois High School Association continues to grow with more programs for Illinois high school students. I-H-S-A Associate Executive Director  Kurt Gibson provides some insight into the goals of the organization.

 Associate Executive Director of the IHSA Kurt Gibson. A full conversation with Gibson can be heard Saturday morning during our  On The Sidelines, program.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Lottery and the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs have launched the 2023 Winter Riches Instant Ticket, where 100% of profits are directed to organizations supporting veterans in Illinois. Launched in 2006, the ticket has generated more than $21 million, and approximately 400 veterans' organizations statewide have received funds. The $2 ticket is available wherever Illinois Lottery tickets are sold.

(Washington-jm) – Experts expected that U.S. agricultural exports would take a hit in fiscal year 2023 and that's exactly what happened. Gary Crawford reports…

(Crescent City-jm) – A staple at the Iroquois County Fair is coming to an end. After 60 years, St. Peter's Lutheran Church will no longer have a food tent at the annual fair held outside of Crescent City. The church cited their aging congregation population for the reason. 

(Champaign-jm) – University of Illinois Police on Thursday arrested a man who stabbed a store clerk during an October 26 retail theft attempt off campus. Police initially were called at 3:53 a.m. by a store employee at Circle K, on Green Street in Champaign, who reported that he was stabbed when he stopped a man who attempted to take alcohol from the store without paying. The employee sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Otha Parker Jr, 56, of Urbana was arrested for aggravated battery and taken to the Champaign County Jail.

(Paxton-jm) – The mapping sessions for Paxton are over and now the work begins focusing on the four main priorities: housing, business support and development, leisure and infrastructure. Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce President Austin Curtis talks about how the chamber can assist in the progress towards the goals…

Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce President Austin Curtis.

(Hoopeston-jm) – A Potomac man is under arrest after he led Hoopeston police on a chase. Ronald Howie was arrested after police attempted to stop the vehicle Howie was driving, then he attempted to elude officers westbound on Route 9. After a chase, the subject finally stopped at 3400 North and 470 East Road. A computer check revealed he had an outstanding Vermilion County warrant and a suspended driver’s license. He was issued several tickets including speeding 115 in a 55, operating uninsured vehicle, disobeying traffic control device X 2, aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude police officer, driving while license suspended, drives any vehicle with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property, unlawful display on vehicle of license plate.

(Paxton–jc)  A baker's dozen members of the Paxton Buckley Loda  F F A Chapter were in Indianapolis this past week for the national convention. One competition for the local F F A was in  nursery and landscaping.   Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Advisor Kirsten Wyatt says they came in 10th in the nation…

Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Advisor Kirsten Wyatt. Three students also received the American Degree. They are Gracie Wagner,  Jordan Walder and Macy Kingren.

(Paxton–jc)  –  Tomorrow is Veteran’s Day. WPXN news talked with Ford County Veterans Assistance Center of Paxton’s Director Rebbecca Rutledge…

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual banquet today at the Linden Banquet Center.

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting the Rantoul Masonic Lodge on Saturday from 10-2.

The Ford Iroquois 4-H Foundation will host their annual auction on Sunday starting at 1:30 pm at St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Woodworth.

(Chicago-jm) – The call to stop the flow of migrants coming to Illinois is growing louder. A group of Englewood residents is calling on the city to turn migrant buses around. Held at the Center of Englewood, a group of residents attended what they called a “Stop the Buses” rally. So far this year, Chicago has welcomed 376 buses filled with migrants from the Texas border.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois State Police officials say they are finalizing rules that will tell people what types of guns, ammunition, and attachments they will soon have to register to comply with the state’s assault weapons ban.  Capitol News Illinois reports those items are now strictly controlled under the Protect Illinois Communities Act. People who owned them before the law took effect must register them with the state police before January first. I-S-P special counsel Suzanne Bond told a legislative committee Tuesday that the agency just concluded a series of public hearings around the state, and officials are still trying to answer all the questions they’ve received…

Illinois State Police Special Counsel Suzanne Bond. People who want to comment on the proposed rules have until November 20th to submit those comments in writing.

(Gibson City-jm) – Gibson City will be holding a public hearing next week to share and receive input on a city drainage study. They will be meeting on November 14 at 7:00 p.m. in the cafeteria of Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley Elementary School. The City wants to hear community feedback on drainage issues to help complete the study, which was conducted by Donohue & Associates Engineering from April to June of this year.

(Cissna Park–jc)  The Cissna Park F F A Chapter brought home some awards  from the National F F A convention in Indianapolis last week. Cissna Park F F A Advisor Jeff Clifton says 5 American degrees…

Cissna Park F F A Advisor Jeff Clifton

(Champaign-jm) – The Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health Dr. Sameer Vohra, will join the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District Administrator at an event at which he will receive a COVID-19 shot at 9:30 a.m. this morning.

(Philo-jm) – A lottery player in Philo recently hit it big when he bought a $1 million scratch-off ticket from a local gas station. The Illinois Lottery said the winning ticket was bought at the Phillips 66 located at Lincoln and Washington Streets. The winner, who wanted to stay anonymous, told the Illinois Lottery that it’s the craziest thing to ever happen to him. The winner, who has worked in the construction industry for nearly 30 years, said he bought a cup of coffee and a $20 scratch-off ticket at the gas station, part of his daily routine, before heading to work. He was on his way there when he realized the ticket he bought was a $1 million winner.

(Washington-jm) – Weather has been generally good for corn and soybean harvesting. Gary Crawford reports…

(Undated-jm) – New data from Bloomington-based State Farm shows that in the first half of this year, catalytic converters thefts in Illinois were down compared to the previous year. During the first half of 2023, the number of claims in the state was 1,300, a 33% decrease. Despite the decreasing numbers, Illinois is still 3rd in the nation in the number of catalytic converter thefts. Only California and Texas ranked higher.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Tuesday received its ninth credit rating upgrade in the last two years. The upgrades signal Wall Street’s growing confidence in Illinois’ ability to pay its creditors after years of fiscal crises. But as Capitol News Illinois reports, the upgrade news came as lawmakers in Springfield were questioning the state’s unemployment agency about how it lost more than five-billion dollars to unemployment fraud during the pandemic. That figure was first reported in July, as part of a comprehensive audit of the state’s unemployment benefits program during COVID.  But Republican state senator Craig Wilcox of McHenry asked agency leaders if they were ready for another economic downturn, especially considering the conflicts that have sprung up all over the globe…

State Senator Craig Wilcox. In response, agency leaders said they’ve doubled their technological capacity in the last few years, and are still working to recover fraudulent COVID-era unemployment claims. Illinois was far from the only state to experience fraud on such a scale, but auditors pointed to weaknesses in the state’s systems that made certain programs extremely vulnerable to fraud.

(Danville-jm) – The Vermilion County War Museum will honor veterans this Saturday with a special Taps program. The ceremony will take place at 11 am with a moment of silence, playing of Taps and the reading of “In Flanders Field'' by Greg Green. This event is being held in cooperation with “Taps Across America” and “Taps for Veterans.”

(Springfield-jm) – The final days of the fall veto session are underway. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City shares what Republicans are hoping to address…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Vermilion County-jm) – Vermilion County has received an approved SBA Disaster Declaration in connection with the storms we experienced from June 29th to July 2nd.  The SBA has opened a Disaster Loan Outreach Center which is located in the basement level of the Vermilion County Joseph Cannon Administration Building. The Center will be open through Friday November 17th.

(Undated-jm) – The annual Conservation Cropping Seminar will be taking place January 31st, 2024 with both virtual and in-person options. The event will be held from 9am-3:30pm with the in-person attendees meeting at the Illinois Department of Ag Building in Springfield, IL. The in-person event costs only $25 (lunch included) and the virtual tickets are only $15.

(Washington-jm) – We are only hours away from USDA's new forecasts for U.S. and Global crop supply and demand. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois has a likelihood of succeeding on the merits of defending the state’s gun and magazine ban. That’s according to the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals, which released their ruling Friday. The ruling comes as plaintiffs challenging Illinois’ gun ban are back in the Southern District of Illinois federal court with an amended complaint to block the Jan. 1 gun registry deadline as public comments about the rules continue. The Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals heard the Second Amendment challenge of Illinois’ gun and magazine ban in late June. Friday, the three-judge panel issued their opinion. An appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court is expected.

(Washington-jm) –  Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack believes a new Farm Bill will not be approved by Congress before the end of the year, but what can be done to avoid a lapse in various USDA Farm Bill programs? Rod Bain reports…

(Gibson City-jm) – One Earth Sequestration is the latest to formally ask state regulators for permission to build a pipeline capable of transporting for permanent storage the carbon dioxide captured from ethanol production. One Earth filed October 18 its Application for Certificate of Authority with the Illinois Commerce Commission to construct in Illinois the 7.34-mile One Earth Sequestration Pipeline. The pipeline would transport liquid carbon dioxide captured from the 150-million-gallon ethanol facility operated by One Earth Energy in Gibson City to an injection site in McLean County, according to the 36-page filing. About 420,000 metric tons of CO2 is produced by the ethanol facility each year, but the pipeline would be built with the capacity to transport up to 4.5 million metric tons annually. The emitted CO2 would be captured, dehydrated, compressed and readied for transport. If approved, construction of the pipeline would start in 2024, with service expected in 2025.

(Paxton-jm) – The final mapping session for the City of Paxton took place Thursday night. Representatives from the USDA Rural Development, Small Business Development Center, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Illinois Department of Transportation and the Champaign County Regional Planning Commission met with the group. Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm talks about the purpose of having those groups present…

Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm.

(Watseka-jm) – Iroquois County residents are asked to participate in the Harbor House community outreach survey.  The survey is part of an ongoing effort to build stronger relationships with the community to increase advocacy and prevention efforts against domestic violence. The public feedback will help identify key community values, shape future outreach efforts and enhance community engagement and involvement.  The survey is available online, visit harborhousedv.org.  Questions can be directed to 815-932-5800.

(Rantoul–jc)  Village of Rantoul leaders continue to invite shoppers into Rantoul. With the New Jersey Mikes store  now open, along with, Verizon and Starbucks on the west side, near the sports complex to the downtown shops gearing up for Christmas, to businesses in the Rantoul Plaza on the east side, Rantoul offers a wide variety of businesses, says Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith…

Village of Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Insurance has fined a major insurance company for not updating their provider directory in a timely manner. The state agency previously fined Blue Cross Blue Shield in March more than half a million dollars for violating laws related to network adequacy. Agency officials say they have fined the company an additional $231,900 because Blue Cross Blue Shield has delayed implementing changes to their provider directories to address the network adequacy violations from the first fine.

(Washington-jm) – The USDA and the National FFA Organization recently renewed its partnership to prepare students for careers in the ag, food, science, and natural resource sectors. Rod Bain reports…

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton firefighters were called to a dryer fire at Ludlow Co-op Elevator Saturday evening. Crews were called just before 9:30 pm. There’s no word on how much damage was done.

(Champaign-jm) – The teenager accused of spray-painting swastikas and racial slurs on headstones in a Champaign cemetery has been arraigned in court on hate crime charges. Dominic Koca was charged on Friday with three counts of committing a hate crime. Prosecutors also requested that he be detained under the Pretrial Fairness Act, a hearing on which will be held today. 

(Ford County-jm) – An area group is raising awareness about farm legacy. Cheryl Mitchell with Impacting Farm Legacy talks about what impacting farm legacy means…

Impacting Farm Legacy Spokesperson Cheryl Mitchell. The group will be holding a session November 16th at Engelbrecht Farms in rural Paxton. 

(Danville-jm) – Vermilion County has been issued a tentative property assessment equalization factor of 1.0000, according to the Illinois Department of Revenue.  The equalization factor is determined annually for each county by comparing the sales price of individual properties sold over the past three years to the assessed value placed on those properties by the county supervisor of assessments/county assessor.

(Rantoul–jc)  The Community Service Center in Rantoul helps those in the village, surrounding towns and area all year long. The upcoming Holidays are also a time,  to help those with needs. Community Service Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford provides contact information…

Community Service Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford. Monetary donations,  new toy donations for the Holiday Bureau and food items are current needs at the center for the upcoming holidays

(Gifford–jc)  One community is gearing up for it’s 39th annual Christmas Craft Show. The annual Gifford Community Christmas Craft Show is set for Saturday November 19th from 8am to 5pm and Sunday November 20th from 9am to 3pm. The venue is Gordyville USA along Route 136 just west of Gifford. A Harvest Lunch will take place at 11am both days and pictures with Santa are also part of the event

(Springfield-jm) – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity are encouraging additional income-eligible families to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program to support with utility bill assistance for natural gas, propane, and electricity. Applications expanded November 1, to include income-eligible households that are disconnected or facing imminent disconnection. Families who earn up to 200% the federal poverty level, have a household with a senior, a child or children under 6, and/or a person with a disability, along with households that provide proper documentation of disconnection or imminent disconnection from a utility are now eligible to receive support through LIHEAP.

(Springfield-jm) – Open Enrollment for the Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Marketplace, and Illinoisans will once again have an additional month to enroll in a health plan through January 15, 2024. The Illinois Department of Insurance also released health insurance rates for the 2024 Plan Year, announcing that there are now twelve issuers offering ACA Marketplace health plans in Illinois. Consumers must enroll by December 15th to have health insurance coverage start on January 1st. Otherwise, coverage will begin at a later date. After the January 15th, 2024 deadline for Open Enrollment, consumers can only purchase insurance coverage on the ACA Marketplace if they have a qualifying life event, including losing job-based coverage, getting married, having a child, adopting a child, or moving.

(Paxton-jm) – The final mapping session for the City of Paxton, put on by Western Illinois University’s Institute for Rural Affairs is set for tonight. After four weeks, community members have chosen what their four high priority goals are: housing, business support and development, infrastructure and parks and recreation and festivals and events. Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm talks about the importance of tonight’s session…

Mapping Program Manager Gisela Hamm. Again tonight’s session is from 5:30-8:30 in the PBL Junior High Commons area.

(Watseka-jm) – A children’s sensory place is coming to the Iroquois County community of Watseka in 2024. It would provide a place where the children can climb, spin and play. The place would be for children “ages preschool and under or maybe even five or six and under but also children with disabilities just in general. The Children’s Sensory Play Place is scheduled to begin in January at Trinity Church and will be from 9-11 a.m. on Saturdays.

(Rantoul–jc)  It’s November and that means it's time to get ready to participate in the Community Service Center of Rantoul’s “holiday bureau.”   The event is set up to help buy toys for kids at Christmas and also help with food purchases for families in need. Community Service Center Director Cindy Crawford says the Holiday Bureau through donations, helps families…

Community Service Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford. Those wanting to donate new toys or money can contact the center in Rantoul at 217-893-1530. The Holiday Bureau takes place in December.

(Mahomet-jm) – Mahomet’s downtown could get a major overhaul. The work would take place on Main Street and would take the straight road to make it curved. Currently, there are 24 parallel parking spots available. With the road reconstruction, the new plan would make 22 angled spots with 2 ADA-compliant parking spots. Bricks will also be laid mid-block to signal a pedestrian crossing area.  This part of the first phase of the plan will allow the Village to close down this section of Main Street for events or festivals. Designs included trees, bike racks and benches along the street front.

(Gibson City-jm) – The Gibson Area Hospital Foundation will once again be holding their fashion show. Spokesperson Bill Kirby talks about this fall’s event…

Gibson Area Hospital Foundation Spokesperson Bill Kirby.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Director John Kim announced the opening of the next round of funding for the Illinois Electric Vehicle Rebate Program. Applications are being accepted starting November 1.  The program offers a $4,000 rebate for purchase of an electric passenger vehicle or $1,500 rebate for purchase of an electric motorcycle.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department on Aging is raising awareness of resources available to unpaid family caregivers during National Family Caregivers Month, a nationwide observance led by the Caregiver Action Network and celebrated every November. Family caregiving is very common; according to AARP, in 2020, one in five Americans were caregivers. Many caregivers live with or near the person for whom they provide care, while others may be long-distance caregivers residing in another city or state. A variety of resources are available to family caregivers through Illinois Department on Aging, Illinois’ 13 regional Area Agencies on Aging, and numerous partner organizations.

(Woodworth-jm) – The annual Ford-Iroquois 4-H Foundation auction is coming up. The auction will take place Sunday, November 12th at St. Paul’s School in Woodworth begins at 1:30 pm. The foundation started the auction after the state required a $20 fee to be a part of 4-H. Foundation President Nita Dubble says they not only use the money raised to pay the fee but also use it for scholarships…

Ford Iroquois 4-H Foundation President Nita Dubble.

(Wellington-jm) – The Iroquois County Public Health Department is reporting a boil water order for the village of Wellington. The boil water order is in effect until further notice.

(Springfield-jm) – Senate Republicans held a press conference today to hi-lite the Pritzker Administration’s management failures while the Governor is distracted by national issues. State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet…

State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet. Senator Rose focused on the problems at the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Children and Family Services.

The Gibson Area Music Foundation is inviting vocalists interested in participating in the choir for its presentation of “Celebrate the Season”  formerly the Messiah to attend at least 3 of the six scheduled rehearsals to perform this holiday tradition which started in 1944. Practices are on Mondays at 7pm and began Oct. 30th at the First Presbyterian Church fellowship Hall in Gibson City. A dress rehearsal will take place on Saturday December 2nd. “Celebrate the Seasons" will be presented on Sunday December 3rd at the Gibson City Bible Church.

(Paxton-dm)  Cold weather is here and it’s time to think about your furnace. Scott Allen from Paxton Hardware and Rental talks about simple maintenance you can do yourself.

Scott Allen from Paxton Hardware and Rental.  You can hear more tips on WPXN Saturday Morning on Scotts Tips for Success

WPXN News Notes…

Jeremiah 33:6 will host a free produce pantry on Friday from 3:30-5:30 at the Roberts Gym.

The Elliott AmVets will hold their first Friday of the month Family Dinner night Friday night. 

The Loda American Legion will hold their fish fry on Friday from 4-6:30. Cost is $10 for adults 13 and older, kids 12 and under $5.

(Springfield-jm) – With a new electric vehicle rebate program set to open today in Illinois, some have questioned the taxpayer cost of the growing industry. During last week’s Senate Executive Appointments Committee, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Electric Vehicle Coordinator Megha Lakhchaura said $12 million in taxpayer funding will be available in rebates beginning November 1. For the first round that ended costing taxpayers $20 million, she assured the focus was first on low income applicants. Republicans expressed concerns about the amount of taxpayer money going to a growing industry.

(Paxton-jm) – The final mapping session for the city of Paxton is tomorrow night. The sessions are put on by the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs at Western Illinois University. During the last session last week, community members chose what action group they wanted to be a part of: housing, business support and development, infrastructure and parks and recreation and festivals and events. Out of those four groups, 2 members were chosen to be a part of the coordinating counsel, says Mapping Manager Gisela Hamm…

Mapping Manager Gisela Hamm. Again the final session is tomorrow night from 5:30-8:30. Representatives from state and regional agencies will be available to discuss grants and other opportunities to reach the goals the groups have identified as priorities. The public is invited to attend.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Park District has announced that due to a medical issue affecting the artist, the Buddy Guy: Damn Right Farewell concert has to be rescheduled. The concert that was to take place at the Virginia Theatre in Champaign on Wednesday, November 8th will now take place on Wednesday, June 26th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.. Patrons who have previously purchased tickets to the November 2023 concert should hold on to their tickets. 

(Springfield-jm) – Property tax relief is a big concern for Illinoisans. Lawmakers returned to the state capitol for the veto session. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington says he was disappointed it wasn’t brought up when they were in session…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington.

(Champaign-jm) – State Senator Paul Faraci of Champaign was proud to accept the 2023 Legislator of the Year award from the Illinois Association of School Social Workers.  The Illinois Association of School Social Workers is the largest school social work organization in the world. Each year they honor legislators in Illinois who have worked hard to promote and advocate for students in the public education system. Senator Faraci sponsored House Bill 3680, which takes effect January 1, 2024. Under Faraci’s measure, extra accommodations needed for a student during emergencies must be taken into account when developing their IEP or a federal Section 504 plan. It also requires administrators and school support personnel to include a student's IEP team or Section 504 plan team when making a decision about whether to exclude the student from a walk-through lock down drill.

(Gilman–jc)  One Iroquois County Business is starting to gear up for a Holiday Open house this weekend. The Gathering in Gilman’s Jody Thompson says this coming weekend is a big one at the store to start Christmas shopping…

The Gathering in Gilman’s Spokesperson Jody Thompson

(Washington-jm) – What is expected to be this winter season's major weather pattern is forecasted to resemble what occurred weather-wise five years ago. Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – A full month into Illinois’ gun ban registry and about 24,000 individuals have disclosed they own at least one banned firearm, attachment or some prohibited ammunition. Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly says it’s “been slow, but steady.”  For the registry that opened October 1, Illinois State Police report 2,430 individuals disclosed possessing nearly 4,600 banned firearms, around 2,400 banned attachments and 44 disclosures of possessing banned .50 caliber ammunition. With more than 2.4 million Firearm Owners ID card holders, that makes just one-tenth of a percent of FOID card holders registering banned arms. ISP will be holding three public hearings about the law over the next week. 

The first will be at 9:30 a.m. Thursday in Springfield at the state capitol complex. The second hearing will be  at 9:30 a.m. Friday in Chicago with a third hearing being Monday morning in Caseyville.

(Woodworth-jm) – The 12th annual Ford-Iroquois 4-H Foundation auction will take place Sunday, November 12th at St. Paul's Lutheran  School in Woodworth. Ford Iroquois Foundation President Nita Dubble talks about the reason behind the auction…

Ford Iroquois 4-H Foundation President Nita Dubble.

(Springfield-jm) – A program that helps provide scholarships for low income students to get a good education in Illinois is at risk. The Invest for Kids program is set to expire at the end of the year unless the General Assembly acts, says 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Urbana-jm) – The Urbana Police Department recovered several drugs and a stolen firearm during an early morning traffic stop on Monday. Urbana Police pulled a car over at the intersection of University Avenue and Orchard Street after witnessing a traffic violation around 12:10 a.m. The driver of the car was identified as 19-year-old Danielle Hoffman and the passenger was 53-year-old Robert Hunter. Both occupants were from Rantoul.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Service Club continues to be on the search for a City of Paxton Christmas tree. The chosen tree will be placed in the downtown area of the city, decorated and lit on Friday November 24th. Paxton Service Club Spokesperson Judy Ondercho says as a tree is offered to the city, service club members and workers from E-I-E-C make the decision based on beauty and accessibility…

Paxton Service Club Spokesperson Judy Ondercho. Anyone wishing to potentially offer a tree is asked to call any Paxton Service Club Member or contact city hall. 

(Washington-jm) – What will be the predominant weather pattern for our country this winter, per the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s outlook? Rod Bain reports…