(Springfield-jm) – Governor J–B Pritzker has signed a bill into law banning schools from expelling students in Kindergarten through second grade. Sponsors say early exclusion from school can trigger a domino effect of negative interactions between schools and families. The law also states schools cannot suspend Pre-K through second graders without the principal receiving written or verbal consent from the superintendent.

(Springfield-jm) — Illinois will soon ban insurance companies from automatically coding a health service lower than what is provided to patients. Governor J-B Pritzker signed a bill Friday stating all downcoding determinations must be made or reviewed by a real person and insurance companies will be required to notify doctors if a service is downcoded. The law also bans insurers from downcoding in a discriminatory manner against doctors who routinely treat patients with complex health conditions. They will also be required to provide healthcare professionals a clear process to dispute downcoded claims within 90 days.

(Washington–jc)  The U-S-D-A again this month lowered various categories within its winter wheat production and yield forecasts, per its latest Crop Production Report. Rod Bain has the numbers…

(Rural Melvin-jm) – Roberts and Melvin first responders were called to a car versus motorcycle accident Sunday just after noon. It happened at the intersection of Route 54 and 800 north. There’s no word on if there were any injuries.

Danville, IL- The Vermilion County Coroner Jane McFadden has identified the victim of a shooting that happened on Friday night near Plum street in Danville. McFadden says the  victim was identified as 24-year-old Krisean M. Watson of Danville. An investigation continues this morning  If anyone has information about this or other crimes, they are encouraged to call the Danville Police or Crime Stoppers at (217) 446-TIPS.

(Urbana-jm) – The University of Illinois wants to hear from those in the agricultural community on how weather forecasts support the decisions they make on their farms. It's through the College of ACES. The results will help inform future weather tools, communications and resources tailored to agricultural needs. The survey is open to anyone over 18 years old who is involved in agriculture including producers, crop advisers, agricultural retailers and others who regularly use weather information. The survey will remain open through September 5th. 

(Gibson City–jc)  The Gibson Area Hospital and Health Services Summer Bash 20-26 is set in just over one month in the downtown area of Gibson City. The live concert featuring full sets with Rick Springfield and Night-Ranger takes place on Saturday August 15th. Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee and Community Events Bill Kirby says the event drew over 6 thousand 5 hundred people last year…

Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee and Community Events Bill Kirby

(The Center Square) – Deere and Co. agreed to provide farmers and independent repair shops access to the same equipment repair resources and software capabilities as authorized retailers for the next 10 years in a settlement agreement to a lawsuit filed by Wisconsin and four other states. The lawsuit claimed the company unfairly prevented farmers and independent repair shops the ability to repair John Deere tractors and farm equipment. Wisconsin was joined by Illinois, Arizona, Minnesota and the Federal Trade Commission in the lawsuit and the FTC will oversee the settlement agreement.

(The Center Square) – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has lodged a detainer asking Gov. J.B. Pritzker and other Illinois officials to not release a Venezuelan national who was arrested for allegedly kidnapping and sexually assaulting a 9-year-old girl in Kane County last month. According to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security, Janio Gionel Velasquez Muro entered the U.S. illegally in 2022 and was arrested through forensic evidence on June 30.

(Undated-jm) - A federal appeals court upheld an Illinois ban on semiautomatic weapons, keeping in place a law passed largely in response to the Highland Park 4th of July parade shooting. The ruling by the U-S Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit overturns a lower courts decision that found the ban unconstitutional. The 2-1 appellate decision found that the Illinois law does not violate the Second Amendment, and its restrictions are consistent with the principles that underpin our Nation’s tradition of firearm regulation. The majority opinion also pushed back on claims made by the plaintiffs that semiautomatic weapons are not at fault for mass shootings. 

(Chicago-jm) – The University of Chicago Law School is taking a new approach to artificial intelligence in the classroom. Starting this fall, first year law students will be banned from using phones, tablets or laptops during class. The school says the policy is designed to help students develop critical thinking and problem solving skills without relying on AI. Students with approved accommodations will be exempt from the policy.

(McLean County-jm) –  One of McLean Counties largest ever cocaine busts has led to two decades in prison for a California trucker. What started as a routine safety inspection of a box truck led to the discovery of almost 80 pounds of cocaine with an estimated street value of $3.6 million. Osvaldo Anaya Ramirez pled guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to deliver. 

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign Police and Fire departments will be holding joint training exercises this week at The High School of St. Thomas More. The training will be today, Wednesday and Friday running from 7:30 to 4:30 each day. 

(Champaign–jc)  Police say an oil leak along Interstate 72 near Illinois Route 47 caused the area to be  shut down Friday afternoon. A vehicle slid along the ramp to I-72 and it rolled over. Authorities says there were injuries but no other information was given. The ramp was closed for several hours.

(Paxton–jc)  – A new restaurant has opened in the city of Paxton. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper provides some delicious insight to Tokyo Hibachi and Succhi of Paxton and Rantoul…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(The Center Square) – In the wake of new state laws regulating artificial intelligence, the Illinois State Board of Education released new guidance on how AI tools and technology should and shouldn’t be used in the classroom and on campuses.The guidance comes in response to a bill passed last year, requiring the board to address growing concerns of AI being used without guardrails in place. 62nd District State Representative Laura Faver Dias, Democrat from  Grayslake says her bill would require the board to address concerns she and other lawmakers have heard from teachers and schools across the state when discussing it in the House last year. The new guidance spans more than 400 pages and provides examples of how instructors can use AI tools to better their instructional material and increase student engagement.

(The Center Square) – Federal and state government agencies have announced assistance plans for farmers impacted by severe weather and flooding, but some producers may not want help. The U.S. Department of Agriculture said on June 26 that agricultural operations in Illinois have been significantly impacted by severe weather and tornadoes. The agency said technical and financial assistance is available to help farmers recover.

WPXN News notes…

The 2026 Iroquois County Fair runs July 14-19th. On the Tuesday its the talent contest at 4 and Queen Pageant at 7, on Wednesday its armband night and the IPA tractor pulls at 6, on Thursday its the demo derby at 730, on Friday its the livestock sale at 1, 4-H style show at 4 and rodeo at 8, on Saturday its the pedal tractor pull at 4 and ITPA super stock garden tractor pull at 6 and on Sunday its the all faith church service at 930 and the tractor pull and car show at noon.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Lunch and Learn on Tuesday, July 14th from 11:30-1 at the Rantoul Family Sports Complex.

Impact Life will hold a blood drive at Kirby Foods in Paxton on Thursday, July 16th from 3-6 pm. To schedule an appointment email Kevin Hanson at emtcoor at hotmail dot com.

The village of Rantoul will hold their Freedom Fridays at The Fringe on Friday, July 17th from 6-9 pm with Vivacious Audio performing.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Gilman on Thursday, July 23rd from 12-6 pm.

The University of Wisconsin Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences will hold an organic seed to spirit field day at The Cadillac in Paxton on Friday, July 24th. More information is available by emailing Erin Silva at emsilva at wisc dot edu.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Board of Elections says its reviewing a letter it received from the Department of Justice, threatening to prosecute them for allegedly allowing non-citizens to vote. The letter, addressed to Executive Director Bernadette Matthews, comes from the Civil Rights Division. It does not make any specific allegations that non-citizens are registered to vote in Illinois and it does not allege that Matthews or anyone else is doing something illegal.

(The Center Square) – After one Illinois state lawmaker resigned last week following the conclusion of an investigation into claims of sexual harassment and another was federally indicted Tuesday, Republican state lawmakers are calling for stronger ethics rules in Springfield. House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch told members of the media he thinks the federal wire fraud and witness tampering charges brought against Rep. Carol Ammons, D-Champaign, are serious and worth further investigation by the legislature. Welch said he takes the charges seriously, but also believes in due process, which is why he hasn’t called for her to resign. Reaction from Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie…

89th District State Representative and Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, Republican from Savannah

(Ford County-jm) – An Iroquois County man who allegedly strangled a male family member and stole his truck in Ford County on the 4th of July then threatened to kill a sheriff’s deputy will remain detained.  Connor Janssen of rural Ashkum is facing several charges including stealing a vehicle, battery and  threatening a public official Janssen will appear in court again next week.

(Fisher–jc)  The Fisher Fair continues. Last night was music bingo and an I T P A Tractor Pull. Fisher Fair President Todd Cotter looks ahead to the final two days of the event for today and tomorrow…

Fisher Fair President Todd Cotter

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker signed two bills into law Thursday to help lower energy costs and increase transparency for customers.  The bill will increase the income eligibility for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program or LIHEAP. Democrats say the change can help more households qualify for help. Republicans argued it will only lead to higher rates for other customers. A separate law will create transparency surrounding utility fees. The Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability will conduct a study of utility charges separate from delivery and supply charges. They will then submit a report for the public to see on the ICC’s website.

(Penfield–jc)  The All About Allis group is well represented in the feature building at this year’s Historic Farm Days in Penfield. All About Allis Spokesperson Ron Repking of rural Effingham says it’s all orange at his area on the grounds…

Repking also says they have just a few tickets left for the Friday Noon lunch and auction event at Penfield…

All About Allis group Spokesperson Ron Repking of Effingham

(The Center Square) – Former Illinois Governor Pat Quinn and 8th District State Representative  LaShawn Ford, Democrat from Chicago, have taken the next step in their campaign to raise taxes on people who earn more than 1 million dollars annually, and the speaker of the Illinois House is on board. Quinn and Ford filed ordinances on Thursday for a non-binding referendum to be placed on Chicago ballots in the general election this November or in the citywide election next February.

(Springfield–jc)  –Two Springfield men have been arrested after state police conducted a human trafficking demand suppression effort on June 24 and 25.

Raymond Stengel Sr., 74, is charged with traveling to meet a minor. Lucas Barria, 24, is charged with traveling to meet a minor, indecent solicitation and solicitation to meet a child.

(Springfield-jm) — Governor J-B Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Revenue have announced disaster tax relief for people and businesses in several counties affected by severe storms this year. The relief is for areas included in Pritzker’s state disaster proclamation that were affected by storms from March 10th to June 21st. Taxpayers in the counties can request a waiver of penalties and interest if severe weather prevents them from filing tax returns or making payments on time. 

(Washington–jc)  What does pasturelands look like around the area state and nation.  U-S-D-A meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at the range of pasture conditions…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Rantoul-jm) – Air Force officials were in Rantoul this week to provide an update on treatment of “ forever” chemicals found at the former Chanute Air Force Base. P-FAS were found on the former base back in 2024. Since then the Air Force have been taking steps to find out the scope of the issue including taking groundwater and soil samples. The next steps include putting defined boundaries on P-FAS at several locations across the base and testing fish out an abundance of caution.

(Watseka–jc)  For Iroquois County property owners, the first installment of taxes is due by the end of business today. Iroquois County Treasurer Kurt Albers says there are ways to pay on-line…

Iroquois County Treasurer Kurt Albers. Payments may be made at the treasurer’s office in Watseka or some county financial institutions.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign woman is charged with attempted murder after being accused of using her car as a weapon during an argument. 38 year old Kotia Fairman drove into another woman at Market and Bradley Sunday morning before driving away. Fairman is charged with attempted murder and aggravated battery. She has pleaded not guilty.

(Penfield–jc)  The 50th annual Historic Farm Days are underway at the groups site in Penfield. I and I Tractor Club Spokesperson Chris Karr  takes a quick look at the feature national line in Allis Chalmers…

I and I Club and Historic Farm Days Spokesperson Chris Karr

CHAMPAIGN – In order to make pavement repairs, Feutz Contractors will be closing a portion of the westbound lane of Marketview Drive between Anthony Drive and Baytowne Drive. The work will begin on Tuesday,, and is expected to last one day, weather permitting. 

(The Center Square) – Illinois' top state attorney has paid more than 2 million dollars in the past three years to private law firms, several of which have contributed to his campaign, to defend the state against a variety of claims, according to data obtained by The Center Square. Most of that money has gone to two prominent law firms for two high-profile lawsuits that targeted the Illinois Department of Corrections, one of which recently obtained class-action status.

WPXN News notes…

The 85th annual Fisher Community Fair will continues through Saturday, July 12th. Tonight is live music with The Arena Rock Show at 8, on the final day of the event on Saturday it's the 5k at 7:30 am, mutt show at 10 am, power wheels demo derby at 5pm and the demo derby at 6pm.

The Melvin Community Hall welcomes Erica Neal on Saturday, July 11th at 7pm. Doors open at 5:30pm.

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable will hold their Parish Homecoming on Sunday, July 12th. Mass will be held at 11 with a chicken and pork chop dinner from noon to 5 and tractor pulls and kids games all afternoon.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Lunch and Learn on Tuesday, July 14th at the Rantoul Family Sports Complex.

The 2026 Iroquois County Fair runs July 14-19th. On the 14th its the talent contest at 4 and Queen Pageant at 7, on the 15th its armband night and the IPA tractor pulls at 6, on the 16th its the demo derby at 730, on the 17th its the livestock sale at 1, 4-H style show at 4 and rodeo at 8, on the 18th its the pedal tractor pull at 4 and ITPA super stock garden tractor pull at 6 and on the 19th its the all faith church service at 930 and the tractor pull and car show at noon.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Lunch and Learn on Tuesday, July 14th at the Rantoul Family Sports Complex.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois is seeing a higher than average number of cases of a parasite which can cause explosive diarrhea according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. As of yesterday morning there have been 150 confirmed or probable cases of Cyclosporiasis, 68 acquired domestically, 66 from traveling outside of the U–S and 16 pending an investigation in the state. The parasite has sickened thousands across at least 17 states. Cyclospora is most commonly linked to fresh produce like leafy greens, herbs, berries and snow peas and can be spread by eating contaminated food or water.

(Springfield-jm) – The black and gold bumblebee has now become the official Illinois state bee. Governor J-B Pritzker signed a bill into law Wednesday designating the species as the state bee. The governor’s office says the black and gold bumblebee serves as a critical prairie land pollinator boosting Illinois’ natural ecosystem and supporting agriculture.

(Washington–jc)  What is the crop production forecast and what is the outlook for supply and demand on crops. World Agricultural Outlook Board Chair Mark Jekanowski has some numbers…

World Outlook Board Chair Mark Jekanowski

(Champaign County-jm) — Speeders beware, the Champaign County Sheriff’s office has announced they will be increasing the number of speeding patrols through the end of August. During certain patrols officers will only focus on those speeding and deputies will only hand out tickets. Among the areas they will be focusing on includes Route 45 between Urbana and Rantoul.

(Fisher–jc)  –  The Fisher Fair continues today through Saturday at the fairgrounds on the east side of the village. Newly crowned Miss Fisher Fair Queen Ava Paullin of Farmer City provides some insight about herself…

2026 Miss Fisher Fair Queen Ava Paullin of Farmer City

(Undated-jm) — Two of the state's largest private water companies are trying to merge with one of them asking the state for a significant increase. The Citizens Utility Board says Aqua Illinois and Illinois American are seeking to merge. This comes as Aqua is requesting a $23 per month rate hike from the Illinois Commerce Commission. Illinois American Water is asking for a $14 a month increase for water and $28 a month increase for wastewater. Aqua Illinois provides water service to more than 100,000 people in Kankakee County while Illinois American provides service to several communities in Champaign County.

(Penfield–jc)  They have been doing this event for 50 years. What started at Middlefork in 1987 is now a huge ag event in Penfield each year. This year’s Historic Farm Days starts on today and runs through Sunday. I and I Tractor Club spokesperson Russ Buhr provides some history on the event…

Historic Farm Days and I and I tractor Club Spokesperson Russ Buhr. The opening ceremonies are set for 9 this morning and an antique tractor sale starts the events Thursday morning at 10. WPXN will be broadcast live over the noon and 1pm hours today to help kick off the event.

(The Center Square) – Illinoisans will be watching gas prices after the United States launched new military strikes against Iran on Tuesday. AAA listed the average Illinois price for regular unleaded at $3.99 a gallon on Wednesday, up from $3.975 the day before. The national average was $3.80, up less than a penny from Tuesday. At Costco and Sam's Club in Champaign the price is 3-44 per gallon. Caseys in Rantoul are 3-99 per gallon. It's 3-99 at the Casey’s in Gibson City and 4 dollars 14 cents at the Paxton Caseys.  The Pilot in Gilman has gas at 3-65 per gallon and the Caseys in Milford is 3-88 per gallon

(Kempton–jc)  The next Ford County Republican Party quarterly public breakfast is set for Saturday at Tom’s Tavern in Kempton. Ford County Republican party spokesperson Tom Bennett of Gibson City talks about the main reason for the events…

Ford County Republican Party spokesperson Tom Bennett of Gibson City

The event is free to attend. 

(Rantoul–jc)  –  If you want a cool summer drink this month, keep this date in mind…Friday July 24th at the American Lutheran Church in Rantoul. The American Lutheran Church  pre-school and Day care group along with summer campers will be offering  a great glass of lemonade from 2pm to 4-30pm on Friday July 24th. The children are learning  customer service skills, confidence and having some fun too. Additional Fridays may be added.

(Gibson City–jc)  The Gibson City Restoration Committee  Queen of Hearts jackpot is $3,568. Tonja Henze had her card drawn from the tumbler. She chose to see what was behind card #8. It revealed the Jack of Hearts! Tonja won $25 for having her card drawn. They have  a special Queen of Hearts drawing on Saturday with ticket sales starting at noon and we will draw at 6 pm. Get your tickets in front of the Burwell Building at 107 N. Sangamon Ave. 

(Springfield-jm) – The bipartisan plan calling for a statewide school cell phone ban has arrived on Governor J–B Pritzker’s desk. The bill requires school districts to adopt policies to ensure students do not use their cell phones during class time in a way that meets the needs of their community. Districts would need to allow exceptions for high school students, children with IEP’s, emergencies, student health or when the device is used for translation services.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill on Governor J-B Pritzker's desk could speed up lead service lines replacement across the state. Illinois is working to replace the hazardous pipes, but the project has faced some roadblocks. The bill ensures utility companies can access service lines on private property at no cost to property owners and expands who can authorize and perform the replacement.

(Washington–jc)  It’s cooler weather this week from the heat and humidity over the 4th of July weekend. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at a better crop growing forecast…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Undated-jm) – The US Department of Agriculture is announcing that Rural Development is accepting applications for the Fertilizer Investment and Expansion for Long Term Domestic Supply Program. The program provides farmers with more access to domestic fertilizer for producing agricultural commodities. The money can be used for domestic production capacity, promote competition, strengthen supply chain resilience and increase fertilizer availability. Applications must be submitted by August 17th at grants dot gov.

(Rantoul-jm) – Rantoul voters could potentially see two referendums on the ballot in November. The village board approved a referendum about whether or not to allow cannabis operations within village limits. The other referendum could change how residents in the village elect village trustees. Both were approved at the study session this week and move to the village board meeting next Tuesday. If approved, voters will be asked for their opinions on the November ballot.

(Gibson City–jc)  –  The Gibson Area Hospital Summer Bash is set for Saturday August 15th in the downtown area of the city. This year’s concert will feature two major national band acts with Rick Springfield and Night-Ranger says Gibson Area Hospital’s Director of employee and Community events Bill Kirby…

Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee and Community Events Bill Kirby

(The Center Square) – An Illinois state representative faces multiple counts of wire fraud and providing a false statement, according to a federal indictment released Tuesday night. 103rd District State Representative. Carol Ammons, Democrat from Urbana, was charged with eight counts of wire fraud surrounding an alleged kickback scheme involving campaign contributions. She was also charged with conspiracy to obstruct justice. Her husband, Aaron Ammons, the Champaign County clerk of courts, also faces charges of conspiracy to obstruct justice and obstruction of evidence. The indictment alleges Carol Ammons benefitted financially from her role as a state lawmaker through direct involvement in increasing appropriated state tax funds granted to nonprofit organizations in her district, of which her daughter, Titianna Ammons, was employed.

(Paxton–jc)  The Ford County Finance Committee will look at salaries for the county’s state’s attorney, Public Defender and Sheriff’s position when they meet on Friday morning in Paxton.  A look at the county budget is also a topic for the meeting. The Ford County Finance Committee meeting comes to order at 10 on Friday morning at the courthouse in Paxton

(Paxton–jc) With the renovation going for a good amount of businesses in the city of Paxton, local grocery store chain, Kirby Foods, has an upgrade inside and outside its Paxton location, says Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper…

Paxton Mainstreet executive Director Donna Pepper

(Cullom–jc)  It’s the middle of summer vacation time for area schools, but one local school district is looking for bus drivers to fill its needs. The Tri Point school transportation group is looking for bus drivers with pay starting at just over 20 dollars per hour to nearly 28 dollars per hour. Those interested are asked to call the school for additional information

(Chicago–jc) – Illinois  Attorney General Kwame Raoul, in partnership with the Federal Trade Commission  and a coalition of five attorneys general, Wednesday announced a settlement in their antitrust lawsuit against Deere and Company , resolving allegations the farm equipment manufacturer used unlawful practices to limit the ability of farmers and independent repair providers to perform repairs on Deere farm equipment.

(Fisher–jc)  –  The Fisher Fair continues today through Saturday at the fairgrounds on the east side of the village. WPXN news caught up with Little Miss Fisher Fair Alaina Hershberger of Champaign and Junior Miss Fisher Fair Ivy Waldron of Fisher…

Little Miss Fisher Fair Alaina Hershberger of Champaign and Junior Miss Fisher Fair Ivy Waldron of Fisher…

WPXN News notes…

The Melvin Community Hall welcomes Erica Neal on Saturday, July 11th at 7pm. Doors open at 5:30pm.

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable will hold their Parish Homecoming on Sunday, July 12th. Mass will be held at 11 with a chicken and pork chop dinner from noon to 5 and tractor pulls and kids games all afternoon.

The 2026 Iroquois County Fair runs July 14-19th. On the 14th its the talent contest at 4 and Queen Pageant at 7, on the 15th its armband night and the IPA tractor pulls at 6, on the 16th its the demo derby at 730, on the 17th its the livestock sale at 1, 4-H style show at 4 and rodeo at 8, on the 18th its the pedal tractor pull at 4 and ITPA super stock garden tractor pull at 6 and on the 19th its the all faith church service at 930 and the tractor pull and car show at noon.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Lunch and Learn on Tuesday, July 14th at the Rantoul Family Sports Complex.

Impact Life will hold a blood drive at Kirby Foods in Paxton on Thursday, July 16th from 3-6 pm. To schedule an appointment email Kevin Hanson at emtcoor at hotmail dot com.

The University of Wisconsin Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences will hold an organic seed to spirit field day at The Cadillac in Paxton on Friday, July 24th. More information is available by emailing Erin Silva at emsilva at wisc dot edu.

The Large Car Takeover on the Tarmac will take place Friday, July 24th through Sunday, July 26th at the Rantoul National Aviation Center.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man has been federally indicted on two counts of allegedly making threatening interstate communications. The indictment alleges that on June 29th and 30th, 37 year old Kevin Baskis made interstate phone calls from Rantoul to Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas threatening to injure U-S military personnel and their families. Baskis was arrested on July 1st and remains in the custody of U–S Marshals. If convicted, he faces a maximum of 5 years in prison for each charge and a maximum $250,000 fine.

(Rantoul–jc)  They say to “stay informed.” Village of Rantoul officials have the almost annual meeting with the U S Air Force over remediation of the land, now in the village, from the former Chanute Air Force Base. The Air Force continues to take samples of soil and water and look for any chemicals left behind by the air force. No forever chemicals have been found, but the testing continues, says Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third. The public meeting with Air Force Officials is set for tonight at 7 in the village board meeting room on Tanner Street. 

(Urbana-jm) – Urbana city leaders are inviting the public to an informational meeting later this month to address proposed improvements to Lincoln Avenue. The meeting will take place on Tuesday, July 21st at The Vineyard Church on North Lincoln Avenue from 4-6 pm. Representatives from the City of Urbana and the design company will be present to answer questions. The project would improve Lincoln Avenue between Wascher Drive and Killarney Street. Earlier this year the city did a study reducing the road down to one lane in each direction and adding bicycle lanes. It’s unknown if that will be the proposal that will be discussed at the session.

Cissna Park–jc) One area town is inviting the public to view its downtown and village with their second Shop the Park event on Saturday. Cissna Park continues to have a full downtown of businesses ranging from a family owned hardware store, convenient store to local banking, restaurants, appliance store to a coffee shop. Cissna Park Economic Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer says one recent addition this Spring was a new photography shop and more is planned this summer…

Cissna Park Economic Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer

(Springfield-jm) – A bill on Governor J-B Pritzker’s desk could expand access to suicide prevention services. Lawmakers say 988 information should be visible in county shelters, care homes, daycares, public libraries, hospitals, universities and nursing homes. The plan also requires the State Board of Education to make age appropriate suicide prevention curriculum availabe for school districts.

(Melvin–jc)  The Ford County Fair is complete for the year. The Fisher Fair is in the middle of its run with the Iroquois County Fair and Champaign County Fair ready to start later this month. 20-26 Miss Ford County Fair Queen Londyn Roderick of Gibson City says she will be attending other fairs and events and then start to prepare for the Miss Illinois State Fair pageant set for January in Springfield…

20-26 Miss Ford County Fair Queen Londyn Roderick of Gibson City

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. –Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker has signed a measure allowing residents of assisted living and shared housing establishments to exercise the right to use electronic monitoring, meant to enhance transparency and resident safety.  A similar law allowing cameras in residents’ rooms in nursing homes has existed in Illinois since 2016.  Under current state law, any nursing home resident is allowed to install an electronic monitoring device in their room at their own expense as long as the roommate consents to having the device in the room. Consent can be revoked at any time.

(Paxton-jm) – A plea deal has been negotiated in the case of a former PBL high school teacher. Multiple media outlets are reporting Ford County prosecutors and attorneys for Paul Meuser have agreed to recommend he be sentenced to probation for soliciting a teenager for sex. Meuser pleaded guilty in May to grooming and indecent solicitation of a child. In exchange two felony counts of attempted crimial sexual assault were dismissed. 

(Paxton–jc)  Among the buildings renovated in downtown Paxton is the Kief Realty Building. Paxton MainStreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says the office is ready to bring their customers to downtown Paxton as a central location…

Paxton MainStreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Champaign County-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff's Office Tuesday released the results of its 4th of July Click It or Ticket traffic enforcement campaign. 7 tickets were issued for failure to wear a seat belt, 2 tickets were issued for speeding, 1 each for operating a vehicle with suspended registration and a Scott’s Law violation. 

(Fisher–jc)  –  The 85th annual Fisher Community Fair continues tonight with Swyear Amusements on the midway  Fisher Fair President Todd Cotter says Wednesday night is the rodeo and Thursday brings tractor pulls…

Fisher Fair President Todd Cotter

(Springfield-jm) — A plan on Governor J-B Pritzker’s desk could establish forever chemical sampling and reporting requirements for water control permits, sludges and biosolids. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency says PFAS have become widespread in air, water, soil and consumer products. The bill would require the state to only issue permits to water treatment facilities if they periodically sample for forever chemicals.

(Washington–jc)  It’s silking time for crops around the area, state and nation. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at the numbers across the midwest…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad rippey

CHAMPAIGN - Champaign Police were dispatched just before 10 Monday night to the 1500 block of West  Anthony Drive in Champaign, following reports of a traffic crash with injuries. On-scene, officers located a two-vehicle collision with multiple injured parties. Each vehicle had two occupants at the time of the crash. All parties involved were transported to an area hospital for immediate medical attention. While three were listed in stable condition, a 41-year-old man was believed to have been ejected from one vehicle and sustained potentially life-threatening injuries. He remains hospitalized in critical condition. . The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Champaign Police Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit. Anyone with information is asked to call Champaign Police at 217-351-4545. 

WPXN News notes…

The 85th annual Fisher Community Fair continues through Saturday. It's Kids Day today with games from 9am to 11am and an  armband special from 6-10 pm and the rodeo at 7,  Thursday sees a truck and tractor pull. On Friday it's the Arena Rock Show at 8 and a demo derby highlights the day on Saturday.

Congresswoman Robin Kelly and State Senator Paul Faraci will hold mobile office hours in Rantoul at the Rantoul Business Center this afternoon from 1-4pm.

St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Penfield will hold a pancake and sausage breakfast benefiting the crisis nursery and the St. Lawrence Maintenance Fund on Friday, July 10th and Saturday, July 11th from 6:30-10:30 am at the Parish Hall.

The 2026 Historic Farm Days in Penfield will take place Thursday, July 9th through Sunday, July 12th. This year’s featured tractor is Allis Chalmers. On Thursday the opening ceremony begins at 9 am, 10 am is the antique tractor auction and a tractor parade at 1pm. The show runs through Sunday

Gibson City will celebrate America’s 250th with a full day of activities on Saturday, July 11th starting with a farmers market at 10 am, car and truck show at 11 am, parade at 12:30, following the parade there will be inflatables and foam machine, face painting, games for all ages, bingo and live music with Dave and Lisa at 1pm, Kalynn Little at 3, the Back Paiges at 4 and Lexi Tieffel at 7:30 pm.

The Melvin Community Hall welcomes Erica Neal on Saturday, July 11th at 7pm. Doors open at 5:30pm.

(Illinois–dm)-The Illinois Flash Index for June 2026 rose to 101.4 from 101.1 in May.  Individual income tax, corporate tax and sales tax receipts all increased compared to the same month last year after adjusting for inflation. For the fiscal year ending June 30, combined revenues from the three tax sources were up over the last fiscal year in real terms, led by strong individual income tax receipts.

(Undated-jm) – Another week, another decrease in the average price of gas. GasBuddy reported on Monday that the nosedive that gas prices have taken this summer extended into its 8th week. The average price for a gallon of gasoline in Illinois is $3.95. That’s 13 cents cheaper than the previous week, 55 cents cheaper than a month ago and down $1.14 from the peak on May 14th. It’s also the first time that gas has been below $4 since early April. The National average is $3.71, down 86 cents from its peak on May 20th. The National average for diesel is $4.76, down 12 cents from a week ago and 86 cents cheaper than the peak in May.

(Rantoul–jc)  – An Air Force remediation meeting is set for Wednesday night in the village of Rantoul. The Air Force continues to monitor portions of the former Chanute Air Force Base for any forever type chemicals. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the third says none have been found in recent years, but it is a good thing to continue to work with the Air Force…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third. The meeting comes to order at 7 on Wednesday night in the village hall meeting room on Tanner Street. 

(Danville-jm) – Due to high temperatures and a broken air conditioner, hours at Vermilion County’s Cannon Building are reduced. The building's 40 year old cooling tower quit working. It's unknown when normal hours will resume.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crimestoppers are asking for the public's help in solving a retail theft from three months ago. The theft happened on April 6th at the Meijer on Prospect Avenue. Police said two women picked out numerous items that included a large bag. One of the females distracted an employee while the other attempted to remove the security spider wrap off the high dollar items. The suspects then concealed the items in the large back and fled with nearly $600 in stolen merchandise.The women were described as black between 18 and 25 years old with red hair. 

(Kempton–jc) For the Republican party and other conservatives in Illinois, the on going message is education and conversations about the high taxes and high spending from state leaders in Springfield. Ford County Republican Spokesperson Tom Bennett of Gibson City says that is one reason for Saturday breakfast meetings in the county…

Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett. The next breakfast is set for this Saturday morning at 8-15 to 9-30 at Tom’s Tavern in Kempton. The event is free to attend, breakfast is available for purchase

(Paxton–jc)  – The Ford County Executive Committee is set to appoint a new Emergency Management Agency coordinator when they meet in Paxton on Tuesday night. The position has been vacant since Terry Whitebird retired from the job. A position on the Ford County Board is also open and will be up for discussion. The Ford County Executive Committee meeting comes to order at 4-30 Tuesday afternoon at the courthouse in Paxton

(Fisher–dm)-The Fisher Fair is running now through Saturday July 11th,  Fisher Fair President Todd Cotter tells about a special kids day on Wednesday

.

Fisher Fair President Todd Cotter

Today it’s Bingo at 1pm and Fair Dedication Day. Swyear Amusements on the midway and Multirotor races tonight

(Springfield–jc)  –The Citizens Utility Board said a proposed $26.5 million hike by Aqua Illinois could increase average water bills by more than $23 a month.

CUB said in a statement that its legal team is now challenging more than $955 million in proposed increases from ComEd, Ameren Illinois, Nicor Gas, Peoples Gas, Illinois American Water, MidAmerican Energy, and Aqua Illinois.

(Effingham–jc) –Illinois State Police are investigating after a man was gravely injured when a gun went off during an incident at an Effingham church.

Local police and Effingham County sheriff’s officers responded to a report of a suspicious man wishing to speak with the pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church on Sunday. During a struggle, the man allegedly produced a firearm and was struck when it discharged. The man was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries, but police said no one else was injured.

(Springfield-jm) — Governor J-B Pritzker signed a bill Monday to create safety standards and transparency requirements for large artificial intelligence developers. Developers like Chat GPT and Claude will be required to give Illinois an independent annual report documenting the mechanisms they use to address catastrophic risk. Lawmakers also demanded AI companies report critical safety issues within 72 hours of learning about them or 24 hours if the incident poses an imminent risk of death or physical harm. 

(Springfield–dm)-(The Center Square) – After two days of calls for his resignation by Democrat leaders, embattled Illinois state Rep. Harry Benton, D-Plainfield, stepped down. The two-term Democrat also signaled he’ll suspend his reelection campaign, pulling his name from the November ballot. The official resignation letter was released on Friday by House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch. 

(Paxton–jc)  Redevelopment agreements continue for some Paxton downtown businesses. One major development is improvements on the Super Wok Chinese restaurant on north Market Street says Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Melvin-jm) – The Village of Melvin will be looking for a new president. Amber Hoffmann has announced her resignation effective this Friday. Hoffmann cited she’s moving out of the Ford County village as the reason for her resignation.

(Hoopeston-jm) – Two people have been arrested and two others cited following a fight in Hoopeston Friday night. It happened in the 600 block of West Elm Street. Police arrested 34 year old Chase Miles of Hoopeston on an alcohol charge,and marijuane charges, 24 year old Darryl Stevens of Hoopeston was wanted on a Champaign County warrant and 30 year old Daytan Davis of Rantoul for possession of cannabis in a motor vehicle and 25 year old Kadi Baker of illegal transportation of alcohol.

(Springfield–jc) Have you seen a wild turkey in Paxton or Rantoul, maybe Iroquois County? The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is asking hunters, landowners, conservation professionals, and other members of the public to help monitor wild turkey reproduction by reporting wild turkey sightings through the Illinois Wild Turkey Survey.  The reports help the department track annual reproduction, poultry survival, and broad population trends across the state. The survey is open through August.

(USDA–dm)-A financial expert says you most likely have one or more types of personalities that influence your approaches on, and decisions about, money. USDA’s Rod Bain has the story

(Paxton–jc)  The subject is Chickens. The City of Paxton  License, Permit, Zoning and Insurance Committee will host a public meeting tonight at 6:30 . 

The place for the meeting is the second floor of city hall. Council members will be discussing a proposed draft on keeping backyard poultry.

WPXN News notes…

The 2026 Historic Farm Days in Penfield will take place Thursday, July 9th through Sunday, July 12th. This year’s featured tractor is Allis Chalmers. On Thursday, the opening ceremony begins at 9 am, 10 am is the antique tractor auction and a tractor parade at 1pm. On Friday its tractor games at10 am, tractor parade at 1pm, kiddie tractor pulls at 2:30 and ITPA sanctioned tractor pulls at 5pm. On Saturday, its tractor games at 10, kiddie tractor pulls at 2:30, ITPA tractor pulls at 5 and fireworks at dusk. On Sunday it's Penfields 150th anniversary celebration at 8am and tractor drive at 9 am.

St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Penfield will hold a pancake and sausage breakfast benefiting the crisis nursery and the St. Lawrence Maintenance Fund on Friday, July 10th and Saturday, July 11th from 6:30-10:30 am at the Parish Hall.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, July 10th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10.

Gibson City will celebrate America’s 250th with a full day of activities on Saturday, July 11th starting with a farmers market at 10 am, car and truck show at 11 am, parade at 12:30, following the parade there will be inflatables and foam machine, face painting, games for all ages, bingo and live music with Dave and Lisa at 1pm, Kalynn Little at 3, the Back Paiges at 4 and Lexi Tieffel at 7:30 pm.

The Melvin Community Hall welcomes Erica Neal on Saturday, July 11th at 7pm. Doors open at 5:30pm.

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in L’Erable will hold their Parish Homecoming on Sunday, July 12th. Mass will be held at 11 with a chicken and pork chop dinner from noon to 5 and tractor pulls and kids games all afternoon.

(Springfield-jm) – Two major insurance reform plans have arrived on the governor’s desk just weeks after tornadoes and other intense storms ripped through central Illinois. Lawmakers hope to protect consumers from unfair rate hikes for homeowner and auto insurance. House Bill 4273 would ban insurance companies from increasing homeowner insurance premiums by more than 10 percent without notifying consumers 60 days in advance. It also prohibits home insurance premiums from being excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory.  The Illinois Insurance Association says the change could cause homeowner insurance premiums to increase up to 20 percent. Another bill would ban insurance companies from increasing auto premiums by more than 10 percent without notifying consumers 30 days before their renewal date. The insurance industry says this change could harm consumers through higher auto rates and fewer coverage options.

(Oakwood==jc)  State police were on the scene of a traffic crash near Oakwood on Sunday. Traffic was being re routed to local roads for several hours. Minor injuries were reported. Traffic is back to normal in that area near Oakwood this morning

(Paxton–jc) The Paxton Masonic Lodge Number 4-16 is again hosting a “Get out of Dodge” Fundraiser with another grant prize from the Grove Family of Paxton. Paxton Masonic Lodge  4-16 Spokesperson Jim Shearl says this year’s grand prize is a theatre performance trip to either Hawaii or London England…

***News nws1391 dodge1***

Paxton Masonic Lodge Spokesperson Jim Shearl. Tickets are available from lodge members or Hudson Drug and Hallmark and Kirchner Building Center of Paxton . Drawing date is Saturday September 19th in downtown Paxton 

(Springfield-jm) —- Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch announced Friday that Representative Harry Benton has resigned following the results of an ethics investigation into sexual harassment allegations. Welch had called for his resignation and had planned to expel him from the House if he refused.

(Fisher–dm)-The Fisher Fair runs through July 11th.  Fisher Fair President Todd Cotter gives us a rundown of the fair’s activities.

***News nws1394 fisher fair***

Fisher Fair President Todd Cotter

(The Center Square) – U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois Andrew Boutros says 179 people have been charged in a badgeless federal initiative to arrest violent offenders. Boutros said multiple agencies came together under the U.S. flag for about 60 days in Operation New Dawn. In addition to the 179 defendants charged, prosecutors said 24 children were located and returned home.

(Iroquois County-jjm) – The Iroquois County Treasurer’s Office is reminding residents that the last day to pay the first installment of property taxes without penalty is this Friday. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Taxes are also payable at all Iroquois County banks, through the mail, at the office’s dropbox on the south side of the county building or online 

(Champaign–)-Champaign County History Museum and Lincoln Legacy Committee plan public readings of the Declaration of Independence.  WPXN’s Dan Mushrush has the story.

***News nws1396 Declaration***

(Illinois–dm)-Illinoisans are invited to chronicle their stories, memories and reflections in audio recordings that will be archived at the U.S. Library of Congress. Illinois Voices 250, an initiative led by the Illinois America 250 Commission in partnership with Illinois Humanities and StoryCorps Studios, scheduled free community recording days, including Wednesday at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Sessions are also scheduled at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield from Aug. 13 to Aug. 22. A do-it-yourself option is available online.

(United States–dm)- It started on July 4th. Trump Accounts officially launched. Every American child born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, is eligible to open an investment account and receive an initial $1,000 deposit to help build a stronger financial future. If you haven't already, visit TrumpAccounts.gov to learn more about this exciting opportunity.

(Undated-jm) – It was a warm and wet 4th of July weekend but most Independence celebrations went on without any issues. Crowds packed Paxtons Pells Park for their old-fashioned 4th of July celebration before making their way to Bixby Park for fireworks. In Rantoul, crowds lined the streets for their annual 4th of July parade. Festivities in Sibley also went off without a hitch. Champaign’s Freedom Celebration went on with hundreds gathered to watch the parade and many more gathered around the State Farm Center for the fireworks.

(Springfield–jc)  –A new study says that Illinois residents rank second among those most concerned about their finances, with 269 money-related searches per 100,000 people every month. CreditDonkey examined Google Keyword Planner search data and found that New York was the most money-stressed state, followed by Illinois and Texas. Missouri was tenth.

(USDA–dm)-When it comes to the separate and cook aspects of food safety, what are some applicable tips in smoking meats and preventing foodborne bacteria?  Rod Bain has the story.

***News nws1390 Food safety***    VOICER

(Urbana-jm) – A Champaign County fire protection district will not be dissolved, at least not yet. A petition was submitted in Champaign County court to put to the voters of the Carroll Fire Protection District in Urbana to fold it into the Eastern Prairie Fire Department in Champaign. The fire chief for the Carroll Fire Protection District told WCIA he was not aware the petition that went around was to dissolve the fire department.

(Paxton–jc)  With hot weather, one good options for kids and adults is a swimming pool. The Paxton Park District Pool is open for the summer and they have designated hours for adults and kids says Paxton Park District Interim President Craig Kief…

***News nws1392 hours1***

Paxton Park District Interim President Crag Kief

(The Center Square) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul says he is pleased with a U.S. District Court of Massachusetts decision to vacate a U.S. Department of Education rule that restricted eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Raoul, 21 other state attorneys general, Chicago and other cities, and a group of nonprofits and labor unions challenged the rule allowing government and nonprofit employees to have their federal student loans forgiven after 10 years of qualifying public service. Raoul said the rule would have given the federal government the power to deem state governments, hospitals, schools and nonprofit organizations ineligible for the loan forgiveness program based on their support for immigrants, gender-affirming health care or diversity programs. The decision announced on Tuesday came one day before the rule was set to take effect.

(Rantoul–jc)  Village of Rantoul leaders will look at several referendum issues that could possibly appear on the November third ballot when they meet on Tuesday night in study session. The first would be a question of village wide election of trustees to the local board rather than the current local district method. The second issue would be the authorization of allowing Cannabis Establishments in Rantoul. The Rantoul Village Board meets on Tuesday night at 6 at the village offices on Tanner Street.

WPXN News notes…

Fisher will conclude their sesquicentennial celebration tonight with the lighted parade at the Fisher Community Fair at 7:30pm.

Congresswoman Robin Kelly and State Senator Paul Faraci will hold mobile office hours in Rantoul at the Rantoul Business Center on Wednesday, July 8th from 1-4pm.

The 2026 Historic Farm Days in Penfield will take place Thursday, July 9th through Sunday, July 12th. This year’s featured tractor is Allis Chalmers. On the 9th, the opening ceremony begins at 9 am, 10 am is the antique tractor auction and a tractor parade at 1pm. On the 10th its tractor games at10 am, tractor parade at 1pm, kiddie tractor pulls at 2:30 and ITPA sanctioned tractor pulls at 5pm. On the 11th, its tractor games at 10, kiddie tractor pulls at 2:30, ITPA tractor pulls at 5 and fireworks at dusk. On the 12th its Penfield's 150th anniversary celebration at 8am and tractor drive at 9 am.

Gibson City will celebrate America’s 250th with a full day of activities on Saturday, July 11th starting with a farmers market at 10 am, car and truck show at 11 am, parade at 12:30, following the parade there will be inflatables and foam machine, face painting, games for all ages, bingo and live music with Dave and Lisa at 1pm, Kalynn Little at 3, the Back Paiges at 4 and Lexi Tieffel at 7:30 pm.

The Cissna Park Athletic Booster Club will hold their golf outing on Saturday, July 11th at Shewami Country Club. Cost is $85 per person or $340 per foursome. To register, call Matt Boyce at 815-202-3208.

(Illinois–jc)  –The Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police say there will be zero tolerance for those driving impaired during the 4th of July weekend. Provisional I-DOT data indicates there were 17 fatal crashes resulting in 18 deaths during the 2025 Independence Day holiday, The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign is funded with federal highway safety tax dollars administered by I-DOT and runs through the early morning hours of Monday.

(Undated-jm) – New statistics show that farm bankruptcies are on the rise for the third straight year in Illinois. Industry leaders say it's a concerning trend for one of the biggest economic drivers in the state. According to the USDA, family farm bankruptcies were up 55 percent in 2025 compared to the previous year. They project total farm debt will rise 5.2 percent to a record $624.7 billion in 2026.

(Springfield-jm) — Lanes are reopening where possible across Illinois for Independence Day holiday travel. IDOT says non-emergency closures will be suspended through 11:59 pm Sunday night. The following road closures and lane reductions will remain in place: Southbound I-57 over Louis Creek near Buckley and I-57 between mile marker 263 and 271, the eastbound I-74 to southbound I-57, the southbound I-57 to eastbound I-74 and westbound I-74 to southbound I-57 interchanges in Champaign and I-72 at I-57 in Champaign.

(Rantoul–jc)  With the second half of 20-26 underway and the 4th of July celebrations underway, the economic development outlook for the village of Rantoul looks “bright.” With the expansion of Maverick Piping, a garbage facility location center, and a 30 Million dollar expansion at Combe Labs, the village continues to grow and add jobs for the village and area. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third looks at what is next for new businesses in Rantoul…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Champaign-jm) – Two people were hurt following a crash on I-74 in Champaign Thursday afternoon. Illinois State Police responded to I–74 eastbound, west of Prospect Avenue just after 2:40 for a two vehicle crash. It’s unknown the extent of the injuries.

(Paxton-jm) – Backyard chickens are back on the City of Paxton agenda. The city’s License, Permit, Zoning and Insurance Committee will meet at 6:30 Tuesday in the city council chambers to discuss a proposed draft on an ordinance for backyard chickens.

CHAMPAIGN – Due to pavement buckling in the 2300 block of Curtis Road in Champaign, the westbound lanes of Curtis Road between Learning Lane and Wynstone Drive have been temporarily closed.  Public Works crews are setting up traffic control devices to allow westbound traffic to safely use the shoulder.  Pavement repairs are expected to begin Monday morning. 

(Watseka–dm)-The First installment  for Iroquois County property taxes is Friday July 10th.  Iroquois County Treasurer Kurt Albers tells us how and where you can make your payment.

Iroquois County Treasurer Kurt Albers.  The treasurer’s office is closed Friday July 3rd in observance of the 4th of July Holiday

(Undated-jm) – Local blood donation sites say they are looking for more donations. Donations tend to drop off around holidays like the 4th of July. According to ImpactLife, they typically need 35 hundred blood donations a week to cover their area.

(Mattoon–dm)-Authorities have identified a man’s remains that were found in Lake Mattoon last Sunday evening. Illinois State Police identified Dalewayne Turner, 38, of Plainfield, Illinois as the victim but said there is no threat to the public.

Authorities say two people have now been arrested in connection with the death

(Paxton–jc)  – The annual Paxton Old Fashioned Fourth of July event is set for all day Saturday at Pells Park and Bixby Park in the city. One event to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence is a live reading by a local businessman, councilman and historian. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says Paxton’s Dean Geiken will read the document at noon at Pells Park on Saturday…

Paxton MainStreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(The Center Square) – According to preliminary quality controlled data from the National Weather Service, Illinois has had more than twice as many tornadoes as any other U.S. state in 2026. As of July 1, 178 tornadoes have been recorded in Illinois this year. Mississippi is second with 81, followed by Indiana with 76, Missouri with 72 and Iowa with 71.

(Undated–jc)  The 4th of July brings community events, family get-togethers and grilling. WPXN News asked Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett what’s on the grill…

Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett

Paxton Masonic Lodge 416 Spokesperson Jim Shearl was asked the same question…

Paxton Masonic Lodge 416 Spokesperson Jim Shearl

(Springfield-jm) – A bill that provides protections for professional journalists on certain college campuses was signed into law last week. House Bill 4420 modifies the College Campus Press Act to include speech protections for public media. Supporters of the bill say many public media employees in Illinois broadcast from college campuses and are often considered school employees. The law will ensure partnerships with public institutions don’t limit journalists.

(Springfield-jm) – A new law is keeping up with new technology. House Bill 3851 expands cyberbullying protections to include artificial intelligence and deepfake imagery. The law allows school districts to get involved in the cases.

(Ford County–jc)  Several area communities in Ford County will be celebrating the nation’s birthday over the weekend. One area Republican party spokesperson says that is a good way to show support for the country and constitution. Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett says that includes events in Sibley and Paxton…

Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett

(Paxton-jm) – The man accused of fleeing from Illinois State Police leading to a massive manhunt last month is facing drug and other charges. 50 year old Rashawn Carter of Chicago is charged with possession and delivery charges of fentanyl, Other charges include aggravated battery to a police officer,  and a revoked driver’s license. The investigation continues this morning Carter is due back in court later this month. .

(Melvin-jm) – A Melvin man will spend the next 18 years in prison after taking a plea for child porn charges. 47 year old Michael McPherson took a negotiated plea to child porn depiction and child porn reproduction involving a victim under the age of 13. He was sentenced 9 years for each charge in the Illinois Department of Corrections. Three other child porn charges were dismissed.

(USDA–dm)-Retired Smithsonian Institution curator Peter Liebhold explains some of the innovations in the early 20th century that propelled American agricultural productivity.

Retired Smithsonian Institution Curator Peter Liebhold

(Gibson City-jm) – The Gibson City Melvin Sibley music department has received a generous donation. The department received a $15,000 donation from the First Presbyterian Church, which recently announced they are closing. The music department will use the money to purchase a new concert piano for the high school.

(Paxton–dm)-Paxton Hardware and Rental is undergoing some major updates to their store.  Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen gives us an update on the progress being made.

Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen.  You can hear more from Scott Saturday mornings at 730 on Scott’s Tips for Success

(The Center Square) – An Illinois state lawmaker has been asked to resign by Democrat leadership after allegations of his sexual harassment have been investigated. Late Wednesday, a spokesperson for House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch released a statement that the investigation, conducted by the Legislative Inspector General, had concluded into Rep. Harry Benton, D-Plainfield. The statement from Welch’s office also said that Benton was being asked to resign, or he’ll be removed.

(Chicago–dm)-ComEd asked its customers to reduce energy use on Wednesday due to what the utility called “an isolated incident” impacting parts of Chicago and the city’s western suburbs. ComEd did not report any outages but said in a social media post that the grid was “under critical strain.” The 2025 Resource Adequacy Study released last December by three state agencies said grid operators PJM and MISO are expected to face capacity shortfalls unless new capacity and resources are developed.

(Undated–jc)  The 4th of July brings community events, family get-togethers and grilling.  WPXN News asked Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper…”Whats on the grill?…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

Ford County EMA Volunteer Kim McGuire of Paxton was asked the same question…

Ford County EMA Volunteer Kim McGuire

WPXN News notes…

Hoopeston will hold their Red, White and Boom on Friday, July 3rd with a color run at 8 am, car show at 10, chili cookoff at noon, touch a truck from 2-4, golf cart and pet parade at 4, red white and boom party featuring inflatables, cornhole tournament and watermelon eating from 4:30-7:30, 90 proof performing at 7:30 and fireworks at dusk at the soccer fields.

The Elliott Amvets will host their Family Night on Friday, July 3rd from 5-7 pm. Cost is $15 and includes chicken, fish or shrimp and two sides.

Rantoul will hold their 4th of July parade on Saturday, July 4th starting at 9:30 am.

The 85th annual Fisher Community Fair will take place Sunday, July 5th through Saturday, July 12th. On Sunday its the Fair Queen Pageant at 6, on Monday the parade at 7:30 on Tuesday its Multirotar racing at 8:30, on Wednesday its kids day with kids games during the day, armband special from 6-10 pm and the rodeo at 7, on Thursday its music bingo from 6-9 and ITPA truck and tractor pulls at 7, on Friday its the Fisher Amvets fish fry at 5, UTV and side by side racing at 6 and live music with The Arena Rock Show at 8, on Saturday its the 5k at 730 am, mutt show at 10 am, power wheels demo derby at 5pm and the demo derby at 6pm.

Congresswoman Robin Kelly and State Senator Paul Faraci will hold mobile office hours in Rantoul at the Rantoul Business Center on Wednesday, July 8th from 1-4pm.

(Springfield-jm) – New laws in Illinois, ranging from how seniors renew their drivers license to changing the definition of cyberbullying took effect yesterday. The motor fuel tax rate will be remain unchanged for six months, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services will be required to prepare youth ages 15 and older for their transition out of care and into independence, the state’s temporary cocktails to go is now permanent, the age for mandatory in person renewals for drivers licenses is raised from 75 to 79 and healthcare workers who provide maternal healthcare services are now required to participate in a training course in implicit bias awareness.

(Champaign-jm) – A mulch fire destroyed a school playground in Champaign Wednesday afternoon. It happened at Kenwood Elementary School. No injuries were reported. It’s unknown the cost of how much damage was done but officials say the playground was heavily damaged.

(Rantoul–jc)  The U S Air Force has set its annual meeting on “forever chemicals of P-Fas remediation numbers on the former Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul for next Wednesday. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says that Air Force officials continue to take water and soil samples and report the findings…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Undated-jm) - With the extremely high temperatures and humidity impacting the entire state, the Illinois Department of Transportation is cautioning the public to be on the lookout for pavement failures on roads and to stay alert for crews making emergency repairs. Pavement failures can be reported to IDOT by calling 1-800-452-4368 or by reaching out to your local law enforcement.

(Ford County–jc)  Area county Emergency Management Agencies, local police and county officials are offering cooling centers to help with the heat. Ford County Emergency Management Agency Outreach Coordinator Kim McGuire says there are a variety of cooling centers open at various hours…

Ford County Emergency Management Agency Outreach Coordinator Kim McGuire

(Watseka–jc)  –If you or someone you know would be interested in a career as a dispatcher, there is an opportunity in one area county. Iroquois County officials are seeking applicants for the local dispatch office. Those wanting to apply may call the office in Watseka or go on line for more information.

(Melvin–jc)  The 100th Ford County Fair is complete for the year. The vision for the local fair is to continue and grow for the future. The local fair will continue to host a national music act, along with cattle, pig to rabbit shows, a carnival and more, says Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Advisor and Ford County Fair FFA Manager Kirsten Wyatt…

Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Advisor and Ford County Fair F F A Manager Kirsten Wyatt

(Chicago–jc)  –The Citizens Utility Board says it uncovered more than $1 billion of questionable spending in Commonwealth Edison’s proposed four-year plan for improving its power grid. CUB says the 15-point-three Billion, four-year plan ComEd filed in January represents a 21% spending increase over its current plan.

CUB said it found more than $300 million of wasteful or questionable spending in Ameren’s four-year proposal.

(Gibson City–jc)  The Gibson City Restoration Committee  Queen of Hearts jackpot came in at 3,365. Roger Cramer had his ticket pulled from the tumbler. He chose to see what was behind card #16. It revealed the six of spades. He won $25 for having his ticket pulled from the tumbler. 

Next week the group will be raffling off a new summertime basket.  Also, they will be selling pork burgers and hotdogs at this year's Sibling 4th of July.  Find them under the pavilion.

(Washington–jc)  – 4th of July cookouts continue to be a big part of the annual 4th of July celebrations. U S D A Food Safety and Inspection Service Spokesperson Meridith Carothers  explains the importance of cold sources to keep perishable foods safe during that  outdoor cookout on a hot summer day…

U S D A Food Safety and Inspection Service Spokesperson Meridith Carothers

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Commerce Commission is offering energy efficiency tips to help beat the heat this summer. With temperatures on the rise, the commission has put together a list of recommendations to help keep cool while saving on energy bills. Among the recommendations: contacting your utility about programs to reduce energy usage during peak hours, installing a programmable thermostat to control the temperature overnight, schedule regular AC maintenance visits and replacing filters regularly, closing curtains and other window treatments to block the sun, using ceiling or box fans to keep cool and caulk or weather stripping around doors and windows to seal leaks.

(Paxton–jc) Economic development in the city of Paxton continues in 20=-26 as we start the second half of the year. Around 2 million dollars in grants and money will help with three separate projects in the downtown area of the city. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold also says a new gas station, restaurant project and a housing development on the west side of the city is also moving quickly…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Undated-jm) — Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias announced Wednesday $27 million in investment to build safer, stronger libraries across the state. Local libraries receiving funding including the Cissna Park Community Library, Moyer District Library in Gibson City, the Gilman-Danforth Library, the Hoopeston Public Library, the Loda Township Library, the Mahomet Public Library, the Melvin Public Library, the Milford Library, Paxton’s Carnegie Library, the Rantoul Public Library and the St. Joseph Swearingen Library. Armstrong Township High School, Cissna Park school district, Crescent Iroquois school district, Fisher school district, GCMS, Iroquois West, Hoopeston Area, PBL, Rantoul City Schools and Rantoul Township High School and the St. Joseph Ogden High School and St. Joseph school districts also received funding for school libraries.

(Rantoul–jc0  The Rantoul Sports Complex has seen some huge numbers of visitors during the Spring portion of the calendar of events. Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Operations Branden Denton says the projections for the number of visitors for the year is expected to beat the 1 point 2 million who came in 20-25…

Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Operations Branden Denton

CHAMPAIGN - Champaign Police were dispatched to an area hospital just after 11 last night, following a report of a shooting with injuries that is believed to have occurred in the 1500 block of Hedge Road. Officers were advised that a 17-year-old male victim arrived at the hospital’s emergency room with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the hip. He continues to receive medical assistance at the hospital and is in stable condition.  The victim was struck by gunfire in the 15 hundred block of Hedge Road. No arrests have been made and thes investigation remains ongoing.  Champaign Police ask that anyone who has additional information please call 217-351-4545.

(Fisher–jc)  The 150th celebration for the village of Fisher is coming soon. The Sesquicentennial will take place Friday through Monday in the downtown area of town. Opening ceremonies are set for Friday afternoon and evening. On Saturday, a breakfast, fun run, photo booth, mini golf start the day. Fisher 150th Celebration spokesperson Kim Clemmons talks about more activities, food and music set for Saturday…

Fisher 150th Celebration Spokesperson Kim Clemmons

(The Center Square) – In a 6-3 decision Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld multiple state bans on transgender athletes from competing in women’s and girls’ sports. The ruling could have an impact on Illinois, and potentially the midterm elections. The court upheld bans in two states, Idaho and West Virginia, which prohibited individuals who identified as transgender women and girls, but were born as biological males, from competing in college and youth sports. Illinois Governor. J.B. Pritzker said on social media that he was against the ruling, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul reflected Yohnka’s statement, and argued that students in the state have the right to participate in school activities, including sports. The Illinois High School Association, which has oversight of high school athletics in the state, currently determines the participation of transgender athletes on a case-by-case basis, per its policy.

(Nashville–jc)  A public high school baseball coach has been charged with criminal sexual assault, aggravated sexual abuse and four misdemeanor counts related to obstructing justice. Chad Malawy, 54, of Nashville, Illinois has been placed on administrative leave from Nashville Community High School.

The charges stem from an investigation by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s office and the Nashville Police Department, with forensic help from Illinois State Police.

(Paxton–jc)   It’s hot and humid. Some area communities and counties have set up cooling centers. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

WPXN News notes…

Hoopeston will hold their Red, White and Boom on Friday, July 3rd with a color run at 8 am, car show at 10, chili cookoff at noon, touch a truck from 2-4, golf cart and pet parade at 4, red white and boom party featuring inflatables, cornhole tournament and watermelon eating from 4:30-7:30, 90 proof performing at 7:30 and fireworks at dusk at the soccer fields.

The Elliott Amvets will host their Family Night on Friday, July 3rd from 5-7 pm. Cost is $15 and includes chicken, fish or shrimp and two sides.

Paxton will hold their Old Fashioned 4th of July on Saturday, July 4th at Pells Park starting with the 5k at 8, community worship service at 9:45, car show 10-2, antique tractor show at 11, bounce houses from 11-2:30, old fashioned kids games at 11:30, bingo from 11:30-1:30, reading of the Declaration of Independence at noon, Penny Scavenger Hunt from 1-2. Then a lighted golf cart parade at 8:30 from Pells Park to Bixby Park with fireworks at Bixby Park at dusk.

Sibley will hold their 4th of July celebration on Saturday, July 4th starting with a breakfast at 8 am, fishing derby at 9 am, vendor show at 10 am, parade at noon, barrel train rides at 1 pm, softball tournament and big kids games at 2pm, bingo and little kids games at 3, model airplane and boat show, inflatables, mini golf and golf hole in one at 4pm, music by The Fairchilds at 6:30 and fireworks over Sibley Lake at dusk.

Rantoul will hold their 4th of July parade on Saturday, July 4th starting at 9:30 am.

(Undated–jc)  Yes summer is here and the air temperatures will be in the mid 90s the rest of the week with heat indexes into the triple digits. Area agencies say to take precautions during this time of year. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Undated-jm) - New data from GasBuddy shows the average price of gas has fallen to its lowest since mid-March. It’s the sixth consecutive week prices have dropped. The current average is $4.08, five cents lower than last week and a full dollar less than in the peak in May. Prices in Paxton are averaging 4 dollars 32 cents per gallon and in Rantoul the average price of a gallon of gas is 4 dollars 3 cents.  In Onarga and Gilman gas prices are 3 dollars 79 cents and its an average of 3 dollars 38 cents in Champaign and Urbana

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker issued a state disaster proclamation Tuesday for 11 Illinois counties impacted by severe weather this spring and summer. Among the counties are Coles, Effingham, Kankakee, McLean and Woodford Counties. The proclamation enables the state to deploy resources and coordinate recovery operations.

(Springfield–jc)  A new budget year starts on Wednesday for the state of Illinois. The budget is the largest in Illinois history at 56 Billion dollars and also includes 800 million dollars in additional taxes on Illinois citizens. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington says the budget does Not have any property tax relief  and that was one reason he voted against the new budget numbers on June first…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

(Onarga-jm) —- An Onarga man has been arrested for shooting a dog. Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police responded to the 300 block of East Roosevelt Avenue and found a dog that had been shot in the front yard of a residence. 40 year old Javier Hurtado was arrested on unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon, unlawful discharge of a firearm, aggravated animal cruelty and aggravated battery. He’s due back in court July 6th.

(Hoopeston-jm) – A Hoopeston woman has been sentenced to probation in federal court after she pled guilty to voting twice in the 2024 election. Brenda Knuth pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three years probation and ordered to pay a $2,500 fine. Knuth admitted to voting once during early voting and then voting on election day. After casting a ballot the second time , she posted on social media that she tested the system and it failed. Voting twice in a federal election is punishable by up to 5 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

(Paxton–jc)  Believe it or not, the first half of the year 20-26 is complete. The city of Paxton continues a huge positive run with new businesses, downtown upgrades and more. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the city has three projects that are being done through grants and more and that is another positive going into the second half of 20-26…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Urbana–jc)  A Rantoul teen will spend the next 4 years behind bars for a shooting last year at the Rantoul Walmart. 19 year old McKinley Brown of Rantoul was in court this week for a sentencing hearing. He pleaded guilty earlier this year to the class 1 felony in Champaign county court.

(Washington–jc)  What do you do with the lawn during these hot summer days. Rod Bain has the story…

(The Center Square) – A new report has found Illinois ranks second among all U.S. states in per-capita fines and forfeitures collected by local governments.

Vittorio Nastasi, director of criminal justice policy at Reason Foundation, said monetary sanctions for criminal and local ordinance violations are sometimes used to fund courts and basic government operations.Nastasi said people in local governments are sometimes not willing to pay for the government they want.

The report says, the use of monetary penalties can become exploitative when governments rely on law enforcement and courts as essential sources of revenue.

(Springfield-jm) – Legislation on Governor J-B Pritzker's desk could set new restrictions on youth social media accounts and allow parents to have greater control over online actions. Illinois would ban social media companies from using addictive algorithms for youth, stop on platform location sharing and prohibit scam financial transactions with strangers. Parents would be able to override privacy settings if they choose or if they approve of the content.

(Springfield-jm) – A new state agency is launching today. The Illinois Department of Early Childhood will focus on administering early childhood education programs and will work to make access to state programs easier for parents and providers to navigate. It will also combine oversight to state funded early childhood programs within the State Board of Education, Department of Human Services and Department of Children and Family Services. The new agency will house the responsibility of the Early Childhood Block Grant program. 

(Springfield-jm) — A bill on Governor JB Pritzker desk could ban schools from expelling students in kindergarten through second grade. Sponsors say early exclusion from school can trigger a domino effect of negative interactions between schools and families. The plan also states that schools cannot suspend pre-k through second graders without the principal receiving written or verbal consent from the superintendent.

(Springfield–jc)  – With the new budget year starting on Wednesday, some reaction on the process and perceived lack of transparency is voiced from some local elected officials. 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet, says the budgets over the past 8 years have increased from under 38 Billion to over 56 Billion dollars…

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet

(Undated-jm) – The USDA is making help available to farmers and producers that have been affected by severe weather. The department is offering technical and financial assistance. The USDA urges farmers and producers to reach out to their local FSA office.

(Tolono-jm) – A Tolono teen has been arrested after leading police on a chase across two counties. Monticello police attempted to stop a Chevy sedan for a traffic offense. The driver refused to stop and fled east out of Monticello at speeds exceeding 100 mph. Champaign County deputies were alerted and the vehicle was located in Tolono. The driver, 18 year old Travis McCarter was arrested on charges of aggravated fleeing and eluding, speeding and unlawful possession of cannabis by a driver.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Park District pool has been a popular destination for area youth and some adults, again this year. Paxton Park District Interim President Craig Kief says it takes a great staff, board and community leaders to provide the best programs and that includes Paxton Park district Pool Manager Kaia Krumwiede…

Paxton Park District Interim President Craig Kief

(Rantoul–jc)  The U S Air Force continues to work with the village of Rantoul on the former Chanute Air Force Base on P-Fas issues. The air force has conducted 648 water samples and 983 soil samples with  the use of some foams during the lifetime of the base. A public meeting is set for Wednesday July 8th at 7pm at Rantoul Village Hall for the latest information.

(Fisher–jc)  Its a Sesquicentennial celebration set for the village of Fisher starting on Friday and running through Monday. Opening ceremonies are set for Friday evening and Saturday will see a full slate of events from a morning breakfast and  fun run to vendors and more says Fisher 150th Celebration Spokesperson Kim Clemmons…

Fisher 150th Celebration Spokesperson Kim Clemmons

(Spiringfield–jc)  – Among the 62 bills signed by Illinois Governor. J-B Pritzker last Friday is legislation that bans the use of lions, tigers, primates and bears in circuses, fairs and other traveling acts. The new law goes into effect on Wednesday.

(Springfield-jm) — The Illinois State Fair unveiled its theme for the 2026 event: Miles of Smiles. According to the state, the theme will honor the 100th anniversary of Route 66. The Illinois State Fair runs August 13th through the 22nd.

WPXN News notes…

Hoopeston will hold their Red, White and Boom on Friday, July 3rd with a color run at 8 am, car show at 10, chili cookoff at noon, touch a truck from 2-4, golf cart and pet parade at 4, red white and boom party featuring inflatables, cornhole tournament and watermelon eating from 4:30-7:30, 90 proof performing at 7:30 and fireworks at dusk at the soccer fields.

The Elliott Amvets will host their Family Night on Friday, July 3rd from 5-7 pm. Cost is $15 and includes chicken, fish or shrimp and two sides.

Paxton will hold their Old Fashioned 4th of July on Saturday, July 4th at Pells Park starting with the 5k at 8, community worship service at 9:45, car show 10-2, antique tractor show at 11, bounce houses from 11-2:30, old fashioned kids games at 11:30, bingo from 11:30-1:30, reading of the Declaration of Independence at noon, Penny Scavenger Hunt from 1-2. Then lighted golf cart parade at 8:30 from Pells Park to Bixby Park with fireworks at Bixby Park at dusk.

Sibley will hold their 4th of July celebration on Saturday, July 4th starting with a breakfast at 8 am, fishing derby at 9 am, vendor show at 10 am, parade at noon, barrel train rides at 1 pm, softball tournament and big kids games at 2pm, bingo and little kids games at 3, model airplane and boat show, inflatables, mini golf and golf hole in one at 4pm, music by The Fairchilds at 6:30 and fireworks over Sibley Lake at dusk.

Rantoul will hold their 4th of July parade on Saturday, July 4th starting at 9:30 am.

(Illinois–dm)-With prolonged heat and humidity forecast across Illinois this week, state officials are urging residents to take precautions to stay safe and to check on family, friends, and neighbors who may be vulnerable. According to the National Weather Service, heat indices in many areas of the state are expected to exceed 100°F for several consecutive days, with some locations projected to reach 105–110°F.  If you need to find a cooling center you can go to keepcool.illinois.gov 

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois residents hold roughly $63 billion in student loan debt but a new state law will help keep track of the private student loan borrowing market. The law calls for an annual report documenting the total number and dollar amount of private education loans made by lenders. It also requires data on student loans made with cosigners and the default rate for private student loans.

Lawmakers believe this information can give a clearer picture of how students are doing their debt and what actions Illinois can take to help them.

(Springfield–dm)-While hundreds of bills are heading to Gov. JB Pritzker’s desk, several bills dealing with the 2nd amendment failed to move forward, which 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting (R-Emington) called that good news for firearm owners.

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting (R- Emmington). 

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign Police are investigating an incident of shots fired Monday afternoon. It happened just after 2pm in the areas of 4th and Beardsley. No one was hurt. This shooting happened just a few blocks away from a shooting Sunday night. Investigators say its too soon to say whether the two are connected.

(USDA–dm)-What does the preliminary look at forecasts indicate about weather for the Independence Day time period? Rod Bain has the story.

(Champaign–jc)  Champaign County crimestoppers is seeking information about a fatal shooting that happened in Champaign in early June. Authorities say the shooting occurred just past midnight on June 6th near Anita and Cynthia Drives in Champaign. A 16 year old man was fatally shot. Anyone with information of footage of the shooting is asked to call Champaign County Crimestoppers at 217-373-8477.

(Gibson City–jc) The budget for the next fiscal year, which begins on Wednesday, continues to grow and so do the taxes on all Illinoisans. Ford County Republican Party spokesperson Tom Bennett of Gibson City says the nearly 56 Billion dollars and under the democrats, Bennett says they just seem to want more and more of Illinois’ workers money…

Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett. Illinois Governor J B Pritzker signed the budget into law this month. The next fiscal year for the state starts on July First. 

(The Center Square) – AAA says the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in Illinois has fallen about 60 cents in the last month, but it’s still more than 60 cents higher than it was one year ago. AAA said the national average on Monday was $3.86 and the average Illinois price was $4.13. Illinois consumers pay a state gas tax of 48.3 cents per gallon on regular unleaded. In Rantoul the average price for a gallon of gas is 4 dollars 5 cents. In Paxton, gas prices are 4 dollars 32 cents per gallon. Other area gas prices include 3 dollars 85 cents in Bloomington and around 3 dollars 89 cents at various spots in Iroquois County. Gas prices in Indiana average about 2 dollars 89 cents per gallon.

(The Center Square) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul says the U.S. Supreme Court has confirmed that mail-in ballot laws in Illinois and other states are fully consistent with federal law. In a case challenging Mississippi’s law, the Supreme Court ruled on Monday in a 5-4 decision that states can accept and count mail-in ballots received after Election Day. In Illinois, mail-in ballots can be received up to 14 days after Election Day.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois will soon expand access to life saving asthma medication at schools. A new state law allows schools to keep a supply of asthma medication in secure locations that are accessible before, during or after school, where someone may be at risk. That includes practice fields, gyms and other athletic facilities.

(Springfield–dm)-Governor JB Pritzker recently signed into law a bill to allow undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition at Illinois' public universities.

The bill was voted on in the House on the final day of session and 88th District State Representative Regan Deering (R-Decatur) spoke against the measure, saying costs will go up because someone is going to have to pay for the undocumented students.

88th District State Representative Regan Deering (R-Decatur)

(Urbana-jm) - An Urbana man was arrested on multiple warrants and is accused of discarding a firearm after running from police. Urbana Police were called to East Harding Street to reports of threats being made. Police identified the suspect as 37 year old Randy Alexander, who fled from officers. As he fled he discarded a handgun. Once taken into custody he was found to be wanted on multiple warrants and a parole violation in connection to a felony murder case in Wisconsin.

(Champaign-jm) - A Champaign man pleaded guilty to engaging in a conspiracy to steal checks from the mail and deposit them into a  fraudulently opened bank account in St. Louis. Isaiah Douglas admitted to conspiring with other people to deposit checks that had been stolen in the mail. Douglas and his co-conspirators tried to cash almost $600,000 in stolen checks. Luis Franco Gonzales of Rantoul and Isaiah Handford pleaded guilty in May to one count of making a false statement to a financial institution. 

(Fisher–jc)  The Village of Fisher is celebrating the 4th of July and the 150th anniversary of the town and the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Fisher 150th Anniversary spokesperson Kim Clemmons talks about some of the events set for Saturday…

Fisher 150th Anniversary Spokesperson Kim Clemmons

(SPRINGFIELD–dm)-With peak roadside mowing season underway, the Illinois Department of Transportation is reminding the public to slow down, proceed with caution and pay extra attention when encountering equipment and personnel. In keeping with the recent practice of timing operations to preserve and promote pollinator habitat, the heaviest mowing period will continue until Aug. 15.

(Crescent City–dm)-This year’s Iroquois County Fair starts July 14th and runs through July 19th,  Iroquois County Fair Spokesperson Debbie Krones tells us about this year’s theme for the fair.

Iroquois County Fair Spokesperson Debbie Krones

(Illinois–dm)-The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service has issued a public health alert for raw boneless chicken breast products containing eggs, a known allergen that is not declared on the label. Private Selection Honey Dijon Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts with Rib Meat vacuum-packed packages were shipped to Kroger and Fred Meyer stores in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and six other states.

WPXN News notes…

Hoopeston will hold their Red, White and Boom on Friday, July 3rd with a color run at 8 am, car show at 10, chili cookoff at noon, touch a truck from 2-4, golf cart and pet parade at 4, red white and boom party featuring inflatables, cornhole tournament and watermelon eating from 4:30-7:30, 90 proof performing at 7:30 and fireworks at dusk at the soccer fields.

The Elliott Amvets will host their Family Night on Friday, July 3rd from 5-7 pm. Cost is $15 and includes chicken, fish or shrimp and two sides.

Sibley will hold their 4th of July celebration on Saturday, July 4th starting with a breakfast at 8 am, fishing derby at 9 am, vendor show at 10 am, parade at noon, barrel train rides at 1 pm, softball tournament and big kids games at 2pm, bingo and little kids games at 3, model airplane and boat show, inflatables, mini golf and golf hole in one at 4pm, music by The Fairchilds at 6:30 and fireworks over Sibley Lake at dusk.

Rantoul will hold their 4th of July parade on Saturday, July 4th starting at 9:30 am.

Buckley will hold their 4th of July parade on Saturday, July 4th at 10 am.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker signed a controversial bill Friday to allow undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition at public universities. Democrats say immigrant, first generation and marginalized students should not be left behind because of where they were born. The U-S Justice Department claims Illinois is unconstitutionally discriminating against U-S citizens who are not afforded the same reduced tuition rates or scholarships.

(Springfield-jm) – A new Illinois law is ensuring people in the Department of Corrections are not charged unreasonable fees for sending mail. The law states committed people and their correspondents can not be charged any fees for mail and scanning services exceeding the standard postage rate. 

(Springfield–dm)-Illinois’ new Fiscal Year 2027 budget takes effect on July 1, introducing a record $56 billion spending plan that features over $800 million in new tax revenues. Illinois lawmakers approved the state budget early morning hours of June 1st after slogging through the night, enacting new taxes on businesses and authorizing less spending than what Gov. JB Pritzker proposed in February. House Republicans criticized the budget for its tax increases and what they called insufficient relief for taxpayers. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting Republican from Emmington said it was another year of Pritzker tax increases.

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting Republican from Emmington

(Gilman-jm) – Starting today the Thomas Street railroad crossing in Gilman will be closed for construction. Crews hope to have the project completed by the end of the week.

(Rantoul-jm) — Multiple fire departments battled a multi family house fire in Rantoul Sunday afternoon. It happened in the 700 block of East Sangamon Avenue. Rantoul, Thomasboro, Gifford, Ludlow, Savoy, Fisher and Paxton were called. 9 people were displaced from the fire. Several firefighters had to be treated for heat related issues. 

(USDA–dm)-What are the ways to enjoy various types of cherries during your Fourth of July celebration, or any time. Rod Bain has the answer

(Illinoia–dm)-A new state government website and social media channels are dedicated to the 250th anniversary of the United States. Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said the new America 250 web page lists a schedule of events taking place at the Capitol Complex in Springfield. The Illinois State Archives launched social media channels to bring the state’s history to new audiences and engage residents in the commemoration.

(Springfield-jm) — Governor J-B Pritzker signed a bill into law Friday to ban rental junk fees and require transparency for leases. Sponsors say renters should not be surprised by charges included in their rent, like fees for after hours service requests, lease renewals or routine maintenance. The law requires all non-optional fees to be explicitly disclosed on the first page of the lease agreement. Tenants will not be liable for the fees if they are not listed on the first page.

(Springfield-jm) – A new Illinois law will address high risk speeders across the state. The legislation creates an intelligent speed assistance program within the Secretary of State’s office as an alternative to license suspension for dangerous drivers. Drivers who commit two offenses in a year will be required to install a speed limiting device in their vehicle. Participants will pay $30 a month to use the device.

(106th District–dm)-Clean-up continues in the wake of severe weather in State Representative Jason Bunting's 106th legislative district.  The representative recently talked about how thankful he is for the first responders, community leaders, utility workers and volunteers in his district that have put in the hours following the storms. But now he is now asking residents to be on the lookout for bad actors trying to take advantage of them.

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting Republican from Emmington.

(Hoopeston-jm) – A Hoopeston man is facing multiple charges following an investigation. Kevin Lambert was arrested on charges of unlawful use of a credit card and financial exploitation of an elderly person. Lambert was taken to the Vermilion County jail.

(Undated-jm) – The U-S Supreme Court ruled in favor of the manufacturer of Roundup, Bayer-Monsanto, last week, finding that the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to leave a cancer warning off the herbicide’s label overrides any differing state laws. The ruling centers on the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act, which governs how pesticides such as Roundup are registered and labeled. The Illinois Soybean Growers says the decision protects farmers from state or local failure to warn claims. 

Springfield–dm) – Illinois has one the highest SNAP payment errors in the nation. Illinois House Minority Leader Toni McCombie (mc-’Comb-ee) released a station after the U  S D A said Illinois’ error rate was  14 point 67 percent…

Illinois House Minority Leader Republican Tony McCombie

(The Center Square) – Chicago’s destination marketing organization says the city welcomed 56.8 million visitors in 2025 and generated a record-setting $21.5 billion in visitor spending. The Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association said the data from Choose Chicago shows modest growth, but the city’s numbers lag pre-pandemic levels. IHLS President & CEO Michael Jacobson said Chicago hotels face challenges in the form of higher operating costs, growing property taxes and overburdensome regulations.

WPXN News notes…

Hoopeston will hold their Red, White and Boom on Friday, July 3rd with a color run at 8 am, car show at 10, chili cookoff at noon, touch a truck from 2-4, golf cart and pet parade at 4, red white and boom party featuring inflatables, cornhole tournament and watermelon eating from 4:30-7:30, 90 proof performing at 7:30 and fireworks at dusk at the soccer fields.

The Elliott AmVets will host their Family Night on Friday, July 3rd from 5-7 pm. Cost is $15 and includes chicken, fish or shrimp and two sides.

Sibley will hold their 4th of July celebration on Saturday, July 4th starting with a breakfast at 8 am, fishing derby at 9 am, vendor show at 10 am, parade at noon, barrel train rides at 1 pm, softball tournament and big kids games at 2pm, bingo and little kids games at 3, model airplane and boat show, inflatables, mini golf and golf hole in one at 4pm, music by The Fairchilds at 6:30 and fireworks over Sibley Lake at dusk.

Rantoul will hold their 4th of July parade on Saturday, July 4th starting at 9:30 am.

Buckley will hold their 4th of July parade on Saturday, July 4th at 10 am.

(Springfield-jm) — Beginning July 1st, blood lead testing will be required for all children in the state of Illinois. The blood testing will be done automatically at 12 and 24 months. Healthcare providers will also be required to assess all children six years old and younger for lead exposure with a questionnaire. 

(Springfield–dm)-As the new state budget is set to take effect on July 1st, Gov. JB Pritzker recently used his item and reduction veto powers to eliminate $500.4 billion of spending, most of which was erroneously included in Illinois' fiscal year 2027 budget. $500 billion of that came from a single mistake that would've been given to an NAACP branch in Chicago. Pritzker made the changes after consulting with the General Assembly’s Democrat budget leaders after the errors made it to the governor’s desk for his signature.  However, 73rd District State Representative Ryan Spain (R-Peoria) pointed to errors during debate in the final hours of the legislative session.

73rd District State Representative Ryan Spain (R-Peoria)

(Rantoul-jm) — A Rantoul school bus driver has pled not guilty in his sexual assault case. Johnnie McClendon Junior appeared in Champaign County court Thursday for a preliminary hearing. He entered a not guilty plea and requested a jury trial. He was again denied pretrial release. His next court appearance is set for July 21st.

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton Buckley Loda High School has a new principal. Melinda Busby was named principal after Hannah Eshleman was named assistant superintendent. Congratulations to both on their appointments.

(Onarga–dm)-The Village of Onarga will celebrate the nation's 250th Celebration this Friday and Saturday. Onarga Chamber of Commerce President Tony Lizzo tells us about activities going on this weekend.

Onarga Chamber of Commerce President Tony Lizzo. Other activities include an antique tractor pull, a Kiddy tractor pull, talent show and a fireworks display at dusk.

(Gibson City-jm) – The Gibson City Melvin Sibley school district is considering an extensive renovation of the high school. Early estimates bring the total cost of the project to around $20 million. To help offset the cost, taxpayers could see a new countrywide 1 percent sales tax. PBL and Tri-Point school districts would also have access to the money raised if the tax is approved.

(Paxton–jc)  One Paxton area business is hosting a Sports Memorabilia and Card show on Saturday in the city. Game Changer Sports Shop will host the event at Veteran’s Square in downtown Paxton from 9am to 3pm on Saturday. The event features a full slate of vendors and is free to attend.

(Champaign County–dm)-May is typically one of the busiest months of the spring real estate season, and this year, the Champaign County area saw noticeable momentum. According to the Champaign County Association of REALTORS® 

(CCAR), May brought an influx of transactions, more homes on the market, and more properties under contract, expanding buyers’ options as we move into summer. At the same time, area homes took more time to sell and median 

sales prices decreased, suggesting a different pace than the fast-moving, highly competitive conditions seen in recent Years

(USDA–dm)-Parts of the country are experiencing improved topsoil moisture conditions, per USDA's latest look at condition ratings. USDA’s Rod Bain has the story

(Illinois–dm)-A new report says Illinois ranks 10th in the nation for economic vulnerability to mass deportation, with unauthorized immigrants making up 6.2% of the labor force and 28% of all foreign-born residents. The Mendoza Law Firm says Illinois's reliance score of 64.8 out of 100 outpaces every Midwest neighbor. Nevada ranked as the most economically-exposed state, with unauthorized immigrants making up 9.1% of the labor force.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker signed several bills into law Thursday, creating transparency for consumers paying for everything from hotel rooms to concert tickets. Sponsors believe Illinois deserves fair pricing instead of price gouging. Illinois will ban junk fees by making it unlawful for any business to advertise, display or offer a price for products or services that do not include all mandatory fees or surcharges before taxes. Experts say junk fees cost an average family of four $3,200 annually.

(Rankin–jc)  It’s the 4th of July time celebration in Rankin tonight and all day and evening on Saturday. The annual celebration starts at 6 Friday night with a tractor pull. Rankin Celebration spokesperson Mark Eighner says a fun walk or run starts the day on Saturday. A community church service takes place at 10 Saturday morning with bingo, lots of delicious food games to a foam party in the afternoon, plus music options…

Rankin Celebration Spokesperson Mark Eighner. WPXN will be broadcasting this afternoon with Becky Puetz to help kick off the Tractor Pull tomorrow night.

(Urbana-jm) - A woman has been arrested after she hit a 9 year old bicyclist and another vehicle with four children inside her vehicle before fleeing in Urbana Wednesday. Emergency crews responded to the area of Illinois Street and Dodson Drive for a report of a hit and run. Treseanna Fikes was arrested and charged with aggravated driving under the influence, driving under the influence of alcohol and or drugs, leaving the scene of a personal injury crash, endangering the life or health of a child and resisting a peace officer. The bicyclist received minor injuries.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Police Department says a bomb threat that was called into an elementary school earlier this week is now being investigated as a false report. Police responded to South Side Elementary School on Monday after receiving a report that a bomb threat was made. No students were in the building but some staff were present when the threat was called in.

(Fisher–jc)  The village of Fisher is celebrating its Sesquicentennial next weekend. 

The first day of the celebration is Friday July 3rd says Fisher 150th celebration Spokesperson Kim Clemmons…

Fisher 150th Celebration Spokesperson Kim Clemmons. WPXN will be broadcasting live in Fisher at the Fisher Community Fair on Wednesday July 9th during the kids games that morning. 

(Paxton–jc)  In updating our story from yesterday, a man was arrested by Illinois State Police after a Wednesday evening traffic stop along Interstate 57. Authorities say the incident started when State Police tried to stop a man driving a Gold colored  Chevrolet vehicle. The driver exited to Paxton’s west side along Route 9,  and fled the scene. Search dogs were placed at the scene and the person of interest was located hiding in a nearby tree on Paxton’s west side around 10-15 last night. 

(Gilman-jm) — Gilman officials are announcing the Thomas Street railroad crossing will be closed for repairs starting next week. The closure will begin Monday, weather permitting and should be wrapped up by the end of the week.

(Rantoul–jc)  –Village leaders in Rantoul are moving into the next phase of the waste water plant renovation project. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the third says the board placed funds to use for the next phase of the multi million dollar project…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(The Center Square) – As the trend sometimes referred to as “teen takeovers” continues to trouble the city of Chicago, government leaders sat down with youth from across the city to try and better understand how to address the crowds of teens that continue cropping up.The solutions, however, could come at a cost for taxpayers. Largely characterized by dozens or hundreds of teens gathering in one location, reports of “teen takeovers” have been increasingly reported in recent years. Last week, Republican congressional candidate Christian Maxwell told The Center Square about being caught in one an event. Local lawmakers want to address the public safety threat, seen when Chicago police recover guns and other weapons when handling the crowds .Many proposed solutions hinge on keeping youth occupied, such as a seasonal jobs program and city-sponsored events, but come at a cost to taxpayers. Some aldermen are looking for lower-cost ways, such as curfews. 

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry tonight from 4:30-7pm at the Legion Building at Durham Park.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper tonight from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, June 27th from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place tonight at 6pm at Centennial Park.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series tonight with In Blue performing downtown.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday from 9-2.

Onarga will hold their Independence Day Celebration on Saturday. The parade will take place at 11 am, antique tractor pull at noon, talent show and lazy days car show at 1, firemen's water ball, bingo, and petting zoo at 2, kiddie tractor pull at 3, Live Music by The Fairchilds at 4 along with adult and kid retro games at 4. 

The Paxton Fire Department will hold their fundraising event on Saturday from 3-11 pm. Tickets are $100 each. Grand prize is a street legal Denajo Rover XL golf cart.

The Bayles Lake community welcomes Eric  Gordon & Friends Saturday from 7-9 at Robinson Pavilion at Healy Park at Bayles Lake. A free will offering will be taken for the band. 

Paxton Church of Christ is hosting musical artist Christian Davis on Sunday night at the church. The concert starts at 6pm

(Paxton-jm) – City, county and state police converged on the west side of Paxton Wednesday evening searching for a suspect who fled from police. It’s unknown why state police were trying to stop the suspect. Eastbound traffic into Paxton was shut down while police searched for the suspect who was located and taken into custody. State police and local authorities were involved in the search from just before 9pm until the suspect was captured around 10-15. WPXN news will update this story on later news casts

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker signed a bill into law Wednesday aiming to protect the medical records of people receiving abortion or gender affirming care in the state. Capitol News Illinois reports the Reproductive Health Records Privacy Act separates information related to this care from digital medical records and blocks access from outside the state. The law will prevent electronic health networks from sharing the information across state lines unless they have a patient’s consent. State Senator Celina Villanueva says this is about protecting Illinois residents or anyone coming to the state seeking care…

12th District State Senator Celina Villanueva- Democrat from Chicago. The bill signing coincided with the fourth anniversary of the U-S Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade.

(Sprignfield–jc)  –The Illinois Commerce Commission is offering Peoples Gas customers an opportunity to make public comments on the utility’s proposed $200 million rate increase. The forum is scheduled for July 15 from 7-9 p.m. at Roosevelt University in Chicago.

(Rantoul–jc)  With the growth of the village of Rantoul, village leaders have moved the Rantoul Electric Department into its own category of government. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says they are looking to fill the position of Rantoul Electric Department Director…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Paxton-jm) – The Ford County Public Building Commission has a new chairman. Del Bruns of Paxton was appointed to the position at their meeting last night.

(Melvin–jc)  The Paxton Buckley Loda F F A group will be without popular teacher Mike White next year, due to his retirement at the end of this month. White also served as Illinois F F A Section 17 County Fair Manager. White says the time at P-B-L and the local county fair  has been enjoyable for him and his students…

Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Advisor and Ford County Fair F F A Section 17 Manager Mike White

(Gibson City-jm) — The Gibson City sewer and water committee will meet this evening to discuss draining issues at 7th and Guthrie Streets. The meeting gets underway at 5pm.

(Rankin–jc)  – The 20-26 Rankin Celebration starts on Friday evening with the annual Tractor pull at 6pm There is a full day of activities on Saturday for families, says Rankin Celebration Spokesperson Mark Eighner…

Rankin Celebration Spokesperson Mark Eighner. WPXN will be stopping by on Friday afternoon with Becky Puetz to help kick off the weekend as part of our Summer Fun Tour. It is stop number 4.

(The Center Square) – The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority has announced $50.8 million in Restore, Reinvest and Renew grants. The latest round of funding includes about $35 million to organizations that support community reentry from the justice system, economic development and civil legal aid, and about $15 million to organizations dedicated to youth development and violence prevention.  The R3 Program is funded by 25% of state tax revenues from adult-use cannabis sales.

(Washington-jm) — A federal judge Wednesday permanently blocked the Trump Administration's executive order requiring proof of citizenship, ruling in favor of 19 states, including Illinois, that filed the lawsuit. The District Court judge ruled that President Trump was overstepping his authority by attempting to overhaul states’ administration of federal elections.

(Washington–jc)  What does the corn crop look like this week around the state and nation?  U-S-D-A meteorologist Brad Rippey takes a look at the silking process…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker says higher proposed Illinois Tollway rates are for many users that travel to and from other states. Illinois Tollway officials are proposing a toll increase of about 45 cents per toll for IPASS users and a 30% rate hike for commercial IPASS users. At a ribbon cutting for building solutions company Amrize in Chicago on Tuesday, a reporter from The Center Square asked the governor about the potential burden on companies that move materials in Illinois.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Old Fashioned 4th of July celebration will take place on Saturday July 4th at Pells Park in the city. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper talks about one of the events at “shady” Pells Park is an ever growing car show…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Hoopeston-jm) – A Rossville man is facing multiple charges after an incident in Hoopeston. 60 year old Ronald Nunn was arrested after police responded to the 800 block of North 5th Street for a domestic disturbance. As they were conducting their investigation, Nunn fled the scene and officers followed in pursuit until he came to a stop in Rossville. He’s charged with violation of pretrial release, fleeing or attempting to flee, resisting and obstructing a police officer, disorderly conduct and disobeying a stop sign.

(Paxton–jc)  One local Christian church is hosting a national music act  on Saturday night. Paxton Church of Christ Pastor Kevin Heiser says Christian Davis will perform in Paxton…

Paxton Church of Christ Pastor Kevin Heiser

(Champaign-jm) — A new statewide economic impact study finds that a community college education provides a strong return on investment for not only students but for taxpayers and the state economy. The study found that Parkland College in Champaign added $250.4 million to the regional economy during the FY24 academic year, a value approximately equal to 1.5% of the region's total gross regional product. Parkland College’s programs and student success account for one out of every 49 jobs across the district, resulting in a total of 3,491 jobs annually.

(Melvin–jc)  – The 2026 Ford County Fair is complete for this year. Newly crowned Miss Ford County Fair Queen Londyn Roderick of Gibson City will now represent the county at summer events. Roderick says some parades and other county fairs are in her future…

Miss Ford County Fair 20-26 Londyn Roderick of Gibson City

Roderick will be a senior at Gibson City Melvin Sibley High School in the fall

(The Center Square) – Most Illinois wheat escaped damage from severe storms across the state, but recent rainfall could affect crops not already harvested.

Tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, wind, hail and flooding all impacted many parts of Illinois in recent weeks. Illinois Wheat Association President Tracy Heuerman said the wheat harvest is about done in the southern third of the state, but it is just getting started  in Central and Northern Illinois. Heuerman says wind was not a huge factor outside of areas hit by tornadoes, but rain could delay the harvest in the WPXN listening area.

WPXN News notes…

The Paxton Fire Department will hold their cash bash fundraising event  on Saturday, June 27th from 3-11 pm. Tickets are $100 each. Grand prize is a street legal Denajo Rover XL golf cart.

The Bayles Lake community welcomes Eric  Gordon & Friends Saturday from 7-9 at Robinson Pavilion at Healy Park at Bayles Lake. A free will offering will be taken for the band. 

Hoopeston will hold their Red, White and Boom on Friday, July 3rd with a color run at 8 am, car show at 10, chili cookoff at noon, touch a truck from 2-4, golf cart and pet parade at 4, red white and boom party featuring inflatables, cornhole tournament and watermelon eating from 4:30-7:30, 90 proof performing at 7:30 and fireworks at dusk at the soccer fields.

The Sangamon Valley Fire Protection District in Fisher will hold a 4th of July breakfast on Saturday, July 4th from 8-10 am. Cost is $8.

Paxton will hold their Old Fashioned 4th of July on Saturday, July 4th at Pells Park starting with the 5k at 8, community worship service at 9:45, car show 10-2, antique tractor show at 11, bounce houses from 11-2:30, old fashioned kids games at 11:30, bingo from 11:30-1:30, reading of the Declaration of Independence at noon, Penny Scavenger Hunt from 1-2. Then lighted golf cart parade at 8:30 from Pells Park to Bixby Park with fireworks at Bixby Park at dusk.

Sibley will hold their 4th of July celebration on Saturday, July 4th starting with a breakfast at 8 am, fishing derby at 9 am, vendor show at 10 am, parade at noon, barrel train rides at 1 pm, softball tournament and big kids games at 2pm, bingo and little kids games at 3, model airplane and boat show, inflatables, mini golf and golf hole in one at 4pm, music by The Fairchilds at 6:30 and fireworks over Sibley Lake at dusk.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill to help sexual assault surviors when they first interact with police is awaiting the Governor’s signature. The plan requires law enforcement to tell survivors they can request to be interviewed by an officer of their sex or gender. It also states police should inform survivors they can have a support person with them during the interview.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill on the governor's desk could help homeless students find housing. The plan allows school districts to provide an extended motel stay for students and their parents, guardians or the person who enrolled them in school. 

(Springfield—jc)   Legislation which raises the age for mandatory road tests for older drivers passed by the general assembly last Spring will officially go into effect next Wednesday. Dean Abbott reports…

(Paxton-jm) – The PBL school board will meet Thursday evening for a special meeting. The biggest topic of conversation will be naming a new high school principal after current principal Hannah Eshleman was named assistant superintendent.

(Rantoul–jc)  The village of Rantoul made some structural changes to their police force. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third talks about the structure from chief to lieutenants…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Champaign-jm) – The man who pleaded guilty to starting a fire in a Champaign church last year has received the maximum sentence for the arson charge against him. Dalton Whitlock was sentenced to 10 years in prison for arson at a place of worship. Whitlock pled guilty to the November 2025 fire at Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church.

(Rankin–jc)  The 20-26 Rankin Celebration is set for Friday and Saturday in the Vermilion County town.  Its a huge tractor pull on Friday and a full day of activities on Saturday. Rantoul Celebration spokesperson Mark Eighner says the tractor pull has two tracks to run all evening…

Rankin Celebration Spokesperson Mark Eighner. WPXN will be broadcasting live on Friday afternoon in the 5pm hour to kick off the 2 day event. 

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has joined nine fellow governors urging Congress to reject recently-introduced legislation they say preempts the authority of state and local governments to implement laws that protect residents from climate change. In a letter to U.S. House and Senate leaders, the governors say Senate Bill 4340 and HR 8330 also strip state and local governments of their ability to pursue legal action when corporations harm residents with pollution.

Chicago, IL – Operation Lifesaver has designated  today,  June 24 as Emergency Notification System   Sign Awareness Day to highlight the importance of blue and white signs posted at rail crossings across the country. Illinois has the second largest rail system of any state in the US with approximately 14,553 rail crossings and bridges statewide. The network is operated by 91 railroads or industries providing rail service to ports and industrial facilities across the state.

The blue and white signs may be used to report other non-emergency safety issues at specific locations, such as malfunctioning warning gates and signals.

(Undated-jm) – Halfway through the year and Illinois has overtaken the previous record for most tornadoes recorded in a single year. The previous record was 142 set in 2024. So far, we sit at 149 and that number is expected to go up as surveys continue from storms over the weekend. Peak tornado season for Illinois is April through June however, severe weather and tornadoes can occur any time of year.

(Undated-jm) – President Donald Trumps “One Big Beautiful Bill” severely impacted two of Illinois’ most economically vulnerable groups” the hundreds of thousands of Illinoisans set to lose SNAP food assistance this year and the small farmers who are losing them as customers. The bill expanded the work requirements to previously exempt groups and eliminated benefits for immigrants living in the U-S under humanitarian protections. The governor’s office estimates that 360,000 Illinoisans will lose benefits due to the changes. The bill also shifts 25 percent more administrative expenses to the state and eliminated funding for SNAP-Ed. Among the programs in SNAP-Ed was Link Match will allowed SNAP recipients to purchase locally grown food from farmers markets, farm steads, food co-ops and small grocers.

(Washingtron–jc)What does the soybean crop look like around the state and nation. U-S-D-A meteorologist Brad Rippey discusses soybean crop conditions among states as this week

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Oakwood-jm) — Injuries were reported following a multi vehicle accident on I–74 near Oakwood Tuesday evening. It happened in the westbound lanes just after 5:30pm. 

(Paxton–jc) The city of Paxton now has a hearing officer to help with building and code issues that come before the town. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the council made the hire this month…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold 

(Mahomet-jm) — The Mahomet Seymour School District is looking for feedback on how to deal with crowded classrooms. Previously, two referendums failed because people didn’t want the property tax increase. But the problem hasn’t gone away, and they need a fix as the community grows. Right now the district is using portable classrooms to fight overcrowding. The district is offering three proposals: option one would be a new junior high building at a cost of $84 million with no tax increase, option two would be a new junior high and a multipurpose room for PE at Lincoln Trail Elementary at a cost of $98 million and a property tax increase of around $200 a year on a $350,000 home. The third option would see a new junior high, classroom additions to Lincoln Trail Elementary and Middletown Prairie converting the admin space into a student space at a cost of around $127 million.

(Fisher–jc)  One area community is celebrating its 150th anniversary in early July. That is the town of Fisher. The celebration is July 3rd through July 6th with the Fisher Community Fair to follow. Fisher Sesquicentennial Celebration Spokesperson Kim Clemmons says she remembers the Centennial celebration as a young child…

Fisher Sesquicentennial Celebration Spokesperson Kim Clemmons. Fireworks, lots of food, a wide variety of food and music hilite  the 4 day event in Fisher.

(Springfield–jc)  –Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs Tuesday unveiled a new community investment program designed to build affordable housing, help nonprofits, and generate returns for the state. Frerichs invested $10 million with I-F-F, a Chicago-based Community Development Financial Institution that promotes economic development by providing financing and real estate consulting across the Midwest to nonprofits and people underserved by traditional financial institutions, particularly in low-income communities.

(The Center Square) – U.S. Immigration and Enforcement officials have arrested a Venezuelan national who was accused of helping two alleged Tren de Aragua members evade law enforcement after a December 2024 shooting that left three people dead and others injured in Chicago. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security says police found weapons in 32-year-old Giovanna Mercedes Moreno Occhipinti’s vehicle after she drove the two alleged shooters, Ricardo Granadillo Padilla and Edward Martinez Cermeno, following the crime.  Both Granadillo Padilla and Martinez Cermeno were arrested and deported, but neither man was charged after being arrested in connection with the shooting.

WPXN News notes…

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 26th with In Blue performing in downtown.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry on Friday, June 26th from 4:30-7pm at the Legion Building at Durham Park.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, June 27th from 9-2.

Onarga will hold their Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The parade will take place at 11 am, antique tractor pull at noon, talent show and lazy days car show at 1, firemen's water ball, bingo, and petting zoo at 2, kiddie tractor pull at 3, Live Music by The Fairchilds at 4 along with adult and kid retro games at 4. 

Rankin will hold their Independence Day celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The day starts with a fun walk/run at 8 am, community church service at 10, food stands open at 11, bingo 11:30-12:30, kids games 12:30-1:30, car show 1-4, cake walk at 1:30, foam party 2-3, kids activities from 4-8, live music from 3:30-9 and fireworks at dusk.

(Undated-jm) – GasBuddy reported another week of falling gas prices on Monday, making for five straight weeks of decreasing averages in Central Illinois, the entire state and the country. The statewide average fell by 18 cents to $4.13. Locally, prices in Gilman is $4.10, Hoopeston $4.09, Mahomet $4.20, Milford $4.10, Onarga $4.12, Potomac $4.12, St. Joseph $4.15, Rantoul $4.37 and Paxton $4.40.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker could soon sign a plan to improve public safety by increasing fines for people driving around school buses using an extended stop arm. Drivers stopped by police for ignoring the safety arms are currently fined a minimum of $300 and have their driver’s license suspended for six months. Some Illinois school districts also have stop arm safety technology, but the fine for drivers going past those arms is capped at $150. The plan would create a uniform $300 fine for the first offense and $1,000 for a second or subsequent violation.

(Paxton–jc)  With the start of summer, its time for street work with the use of motor fuel tax dollars for many area communities.  Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the city’s street department has the number of dollars to use for upgrades and re surfacing projects in Paxton continues…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Kankakee-jm) — Kankakee police are investigating a Father’s Day shooting that left one person dead. 40 year old Randal Young was pronounced dead at Riverside Hospital. Young’s 59 year old father suffered a non life threatening wound. The shooting happened in the 1100 block of East Merchant Street around 3:30pm.

(Paxton–jc)  The Frederick Community Bank and the Buckley State Bank have announced plans to merge into one bank corporation. The merger is expected to be complete by December of this year. The Frederick Community Bank started as the Clarence State Bank in 1908 and now with the merger of the Buckley State Bank has locations in Paxton Cissna Park and Buckley. 

(Champaign-jm) — A teenager accused of shooting another teen in January is now facing adult charges of attempted murder. New charges of attempted murder were filed against 17 year old Brandon Huff after he pleaded not guilty to one count of aggravated battery with a firearm. Huff entered a not guilty plea. He is accused of shooting two teenagers from Rantoul. A 14 year old was injured but survived, a 16 year old was not injured. He’s due back in court July 22nd.

(CissnaPark)- Some changes are coming to downtown Cissna Park. Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer tells us about those changes… 

Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer

(Gilman–dm)-Monday, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity celebrated Incobrasa Industries’ new soybean processing plant and solar array in Gilman, reinforcing Illinois' position as the nation's leading soybean-producing state and a growing hub for biofuels, food processing, and advanced agricultural manufacturing. The completed project includes a 170,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility to meet the growing demand for its soybean crushing services, creating 40 new full-time jobs for the region while retaining 200 positions. Located adjacent to Incobrasa's existing facility, the new processing plant doubles the company's production capacity and can process nearly 100 million bushels of soybeans annually.

(Rantoul–jc)  The village of Rantoul and the emergency phone MetCad system are adding the University of Illinois system into their local agreements. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says the village continues to work with other agencies for all emergencies…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(The Center Square) – A potential plan to deploy federal immigration agents to polling places this fall is illegal and would suppress voters, an Illinois congressman warned this week, while demanding answers from top brass at the Department of Homeland Security. In a letter to DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., warned that sending ICE or Homeland Security personnel to voting sites would be illegal and create a “chilling effect” on voter rights. Last week, Mullin made the argument to CNN hosts that ICE deployment shouldn’t be ruled out, citing a potential for non-citizens to fraudulently attempt to vote in the coming election.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill banning junk fees and creating price transparency for Illinois consumers has arrived on Governor J-B Pritzker's desk. The plan makes it unlawful for any business to advertise, display or offer a price for products or services that does not include all mandatory fees or surcharges before taxes. Sponsors say junk fees cost an average family of four $3,200 annually.

(Springfield-jm) – The plan to tackle growing frustration over digital grocery store coupons has arrived on Governor J-B Pritzker’s desk. State lawmakers originally wanted to require grocery stores with digital coupons to have a paper option easily accessible to customers. However, this bill requires retailers to honor digital promotions through automatic or point of sale discounts, barcodes or quick response codes. Grocery stores violating this requirement could face lawsuits and fines under the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Practices Act.

(Springfield–jc)  With the near calendar fiscal year budget already signed by Illinois Governor J B Pritzker, one area Republican Senator continues to blast the amount of increased spending by the majority-democrats in Illinois. 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet says this year’s budget is nearly 56 Billion Dollars and the increase in taxes for Illinoisans also continues to grow…

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose Republican from Mahomet

(Decatur-jm) – ADM is set to invest $103 million in improvements to its Decatur facilities. Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce announced Monday. ADMs investment will create 50 new full time jobs and keep over 1,000 present full time jobs. ADM will replace old control systems across its west and east soybean plants and the corn wet mill.

(Paxton–jc)  The United States of America is celebrating the 250th signing of the Declaration of Independence. The Paxton Chamber of Commerce and Paxton Mainstreet are planning a special reading during the 4th of July activities in Pells Park says Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Champaign–jc)  No injuries were reported Monday morning after a two vehicle crash happened in the I-72 to I-57 southbound ramp. The accident happened about 8-30 Monday morning. When officers got to the scene, one of the vehicles was overturned in a nearby ditch. The exchange area remains open this afternoon. Police remind the motoring public to take extra precaution in work zone areas like the I-74, I-72 and I-57 interstate construction zone in Champaign.

(USDA–dm)-The first phase of USDA Farm Service Agency's annual election process for county committees is currently taking place with candidate nominations. Rod Bain has the story

WPXN News Notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper on Friday, June 26th from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, June 27th from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 26th with In Blue performing in downtown.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry on Friday, June 26th from 4:30-7pm at the Legion Building at Durham Park.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, June 27th from 9-2.

Onarga will hold their Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The parade will take place at 11 am, antique tractor pull at noon, talent show and lazy days car show at 1, firemen's water ball, bingo, and petting zoo at 2, kiddie tractor pull at 3, Live Music by The Fairchilds at 4 along with adult and kid retro games at 4. 

Rankin will hold their Independence Day celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The day starts with a fun walk/run at 8 am, community church service at 10, food stands open at 11, bingo 11:30-12:30, kids games 12:30-1:30, car show 1-4, cake walk at 1:30, foam party 2-3, kids activities from 4-8, live music from 3:30-9 and fireworks at dusk.

The Paxton Fire Department will hold their cash bash on Saturday, June 27th from 3-11 pm. Tickets are $100 each. Grand prize is a street legal Denajo Rover XL golf cart.

(Chicago-jm) – A spate of shootings in Chicago has led to at least 38 injuries and seven deaths since Friday evening, police say, prompting President Donald Trump to renew his call for a military intervention in the nation's third-largest city. The president says the feds could help. The office of Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, a potential 2028 Democratic presidential contender who has repeatedly rebuffed Trump's calls for a military intervention, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 

(Gilman–jc)  Illinois Governor J B Pritzker will be in Iroquois County today for a ribbon cutting ceremony with a local ag company. Governor Pritzker will deliver remarks at the Incobrasa Ribbon Cutting ceremony in Gilman this afternoon.

Incobrasa is announcing a modernization of the facility on Gilman’s west side near Interstate 57. The event is set for 2 this afternoon. 

(Paxton–jc) A proposed solar project is being talked about by Paxton City leaders. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the council and those with the city are learning about their options …

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold. Meetings on the idea will be set between now and the next city council meeting. 

(Ford County-jm) – Paxton firefighters were called to a vehicle fire on I-57 early Saturday afternoon. The call came in around 1:30pm. About an hour earlier, Roberts and Melvin firefighters were called to a vehicle fire of their own. No injuries were reported in either fire.

(Clinton Lake-jm) – No injuries were reported following a boat fire on Clinton Lake this past weekend. Firefighters were called to the Weldon Access Boat Ramp for a report of a boat on fire in the water. The fire was put out by the time firefighters arrived. 

(Paxton–dm)-The Paxton Library has lots of weekly activities going on throughout the summer.  Paxton Library Director Deb Mason tells us about some of those activities.

Paxton Library Director Deb Mason.

CHAMPAIGN – Two Champaign teens are in custody for their alleged roles in a shooting last Monday that killed one person and injured another. Police have arrested a 16-year-old and a 14-year-old  in connection with the shootings The two subjects now face multiple charges, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, and aggravated battery with a firearm. Charges are reviewed by prosecutors and may be amended, upgraded or reduced. Because the suspects are juveniles, state law prohibits the release of additional identifying information.

(The Center Square) – The Illinois Economic Development Summit is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. Topics include transportation, energy, workforce strategy, tourism, housing and the economy. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and the Illinois Economic Development Corporation are scheduled to make presentations.

(Peoria–jc)  - The Illinois EPA has announced Clean Ports Program meetings for stakeholders and near-port communities to begin a planning process for port decarbonization.The first scheduled meeting for port districts within the Illinois Waterway Ports Commission is Tuesday in Peoria.

(Sangamon County-jm) – Sean Grayson, the former Sangamon County sheriff's deputy convicted in the 2024 killing of Sonya Massey, is scheduled to appear before the Illinois Prisoner Review Board on July 31 in an effort to seek his release. Details regarding the nature of the hearing were not immediately available. One possibility is a hearing under the Joe Coleman Medical Release Act, which allows incarcerated individuals suffering from terminal illnesses or severe medical incapacitation to request early release. Grayson was convicted of second-degree murder in October in connection with the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old mother of two, inside her home in an unincorporated area of Sangamon County.

(Melvin–jc)  The 100th annual Ford County Fair wrapped up Saturday at the fair grounds in Melvin. Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Advisor Mike White says the local F F A Section fair took place Friday morning in Melvin…

Paxton Buckley Loda F  F A Advisor Mike White. White is officially retiring from PBL this week

(Urbana-jm) – No injuries were reported after an armed robbery at an Urbana gas station on Friday morning. The Urbana Police Department said officers responded just before 5 a.m. to the Circle K on N. Cunningham Avenue for a reported armed robbery. Police learned that an unknown man had entered the store demanding money from the register. Urbana police stated that the suspect fired multiple shots, but no workers were hit. The suspect eventually ran away and was described as wearing black clothing, black shoes, a black ski mask, gloves and carrying a black backpack.  The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information can contact Urbana police at 217-384-2320 or submit tips to Crime Stoppers at 217-373-8477.

(The Center Square) – AAA’s average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in Illinois dropped to $4.24 on Friday, down from $5.05 one month ago but up from $3.44 one year ago. AAA’s national average on Friday was $3.97 per gallon. All of the states bordering Illinois are below $3.80.

(Paxton–dm)-The Paxton Church of Chris will be hosting Multi-Dove Award winning andGrammy nominated artist Christian Davis. Paxton Church of Christ Pastor Kevin Heiser has the details.

Paxton Church of Christ Pastor Kevin Heiser

(The Center Square) – A law that is set to legalize physician-assisted suicide in Illinois is being challenged by disability-rights advocates and organizations in federal court in the Northern District of Illinois. The law, signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker last December, is set to go into effect on Sept. 12, but disability rights advocates, which make up the “End Assisted Suicide Coalition,” are seeking to prevent it. Similar laws have been passed in 13 states across the country, with many also being challenged in court. Ernest Galvan, a lawyer representing the group in its lawsuit against Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Health and its director, told The Center Square the group is challenging the law for its lack of compliance with the U.S. Constitution and Americans with Disabilities Act.

(Illinois–jc)  –Illinois ranks last on a list of the best states for an affordable summer road trip in the contiguous U.S. Dunhill Travel Deals considered hotel, gas and everyday prices along with national park sites, attractions and road quality.

Arkansas finished first. Iowa and Indiana ranked ninth and tenth, respectively.

WPXN News notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their pork chop sandwich supper on Friday, June 26th from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, June 27th from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 26th with In Blue performing in downtown.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry on Friday, June 26th from 4:30-7pm at the Legion Building at Durham Park.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, June 27th from 9-2.

Onarga will hold their Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The parade will take place at 11 am, antique tractor pull at noon, talent show and lazy days car show at 1, firemens water ball, bingo, and petting zoo at 2, kiddie tractor pull at 3, Live Music by The Fairchilds at 4 along with adult and kid retro games at 4. 

Rankin will hold their Independence Day celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The day starts with a fun walk/run at 8 am, community church service at 10, food stands open at 11, bingo 11:30-12:30, kids games 12:30-1:30, car show 1-4, cake walk at 1:30, foam party 2-3, kids activities from 4-8, live music from 3:30-9 and fireworks at dusk.

(Springfield-jm) – New data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the unemployment rate in Illinois remained stable in May while payroll jobs were up for the third straight month. The Illinois Department of Employment Security published the data on Thursday, saying unemployment was at 5.1% while the state added 6,000 jobs. The number of unemployed persons — 336,300 — fell by 0.3 percentage points from April, but is up by 15.3% compared to the same month one year ago. The labor force also shrank by 0.2%.

(Paxton–jc)  –  The city of Paxton is continuing talks with a solar farm company on the prospects of bringing a solar operation that would benefit the city and its residents. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says initial talks have taken place and the city council will meet with the company to see if it is a good fit for Paxton…
 

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Police Department is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and hundreds of other law enforcement to crack down on impaired and unbuckled drivers over the Fourth of July holiday.  There will be high-visibility enforcement throughout the state from June 19 through July 6.

(Rantoul–jc)  The Maverick Pipe Company along with Combe Labs are expanding operations in the village of Rantoul. That means more quality jobs in the village. Village leaders continue to also work with Parkland College on their jobs programs, to train people for those jobs says RantouL Mayor Sam Hall the Third…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Urbana-jm) – The Illini Alert system on the University of Illinois campus will be one of several things being incorporated into a new app. The University of Illinois Police Department announced the development of Illini-Alert+, the official safety app of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Division of Public Safety. The app will include not just Illini alert notifications, but also emergency action guides and plans and also a “friend walk” request so people are not walking across campus alone.

(Ford County–dm)-Ford County Residents will soon find their Ford County Real Estate Tax Bills in the mail.  Ford County Treasurer Taylor Burnett has some important dates to remember

Ford County Treasurer Taylor Burnett

(The Center Square) – State financial aid continues to expand within higher education, allowing money to go to eligible illegal immigrant students. The increased spending is heating up debate over who should receive state taxpayers-funded higher education benefits. Currently, around 21 states and the District of Columbia offer in-state tuition eligibility to certain illegal immigrant students, and 18 states and D.C. provide access to state financial aid programs, according to Higher Ed immigration. In Illinois, access to state financial aid through House Bill 460 was signed into law by the Gov. J.B. Pritzker in December 2025.  Illinois allocated over $700 million for MAP grants during the 2024 fiscal year.

(The Center Square) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced on Thursday that the state’s unemployment rate remained unchanged at Five point One percent in May.  The number is  almost one percentage point higher than it was one year ago, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Total nonfarm payrolls saw a third consecutive over-the-month increase in May, up 6,000 to 6.2 million. 

(Southern Illinois–jc) Teams are continuing to survey damage after severe thunderstorms pounded parts of central and southern Illinois on Wednesday.

There were reports of tornadoes, including one in the Effingham  and Charleston areas, along with wind gusts up to 80 miles per hour, hail as large as three inches in diameter and localized flooding.

(Springfield-jm) — Gov. JB Pritzker gave Chicago Bears fans hope earlier this month when he said he's open to a special session to keep the team in Illinois. However, Democratic leaders say they're not bringing lawmakers back to work until the Bears return to the negotiating table.  The Bears have shifted focus to building a stadium across the border, forcing Illinois to make a Hail Mary attempt, but when will the Springfield politicos return to their home field? Pritzker said the team has called him and members of his administration with thoughts about ways to move forward, but the Bears have not been clear about the bill they need passed or whether they have the votes. Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch told his members that they will work on a plan to save the Bears throughout the summer. Yet, no hearings have been scheduled, and many are asking why representatives are holding the ball.The General Assembly is not scheduled to return to Springfield until the veto session begins Nov. 17. Some say more lawmakers will be willing to support a Bears bill after the Nov. 3 election.

(Chicago-jm) – Former President Barack Obama formally opened his presidential center in Chicago on Thursday with a call to defend democracy as three former presidents joined him on stage in an extraordinary event featuring politicians, A-list celebrities, athletes and other internationally known figures. Bono, John Legend, Christina Aguilera, Marc Anthony and Eddie Vedder took turns on the stage ahead of Bruce Springsteen and Stevie Wonder, who closed the show singing “Higher Ground” as the former presidents, world leaders and others danced along.

(Melvin–dm)-The Ford County Fair continues, and Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins tells us what’s going on at the fair today…

Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson  Diane Perkins

(Urbana-jm) – Several streets in Urbana will be temporarily closed this afternoon to accommodate a Juneteenth parade. The parade will begin at East Colorado Avenue and South Philo Road and travel west on Colorado Avenue to South Vine Street. Participants will then head north on Vine Street to Florida Avenue, east on Florida Avenue to South Philo Road, and conclude at South Philo Road and East Colorado Avenue.

(Washington–jc)  What do the U S DA meat prices look like for June?.  World Agricultural Outlook Board Chair Mark Jekanowski has the numbers…

World Outlook Board Chairman Mark Jekanowski

(Undated-jm) – Today is Juneteenth. It’s a federal holiday so banks and government buildings are closed today. There will also be no mail delivery today. All services will be up and running either Saturday or Monday.

(Buckley–jc)  The village of Buckley has its “Fun Day” set for Saturday. The day starts with a St John’s Ladies Aid Bake Sale and a Buckley Sportsman’s Club Fishing Derby. Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster talks about some activities in the afternoon, including the “duck” race…

Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster

(The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signed legislation elevating the Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission to the cabinet-level Illinois Department of Disability Advocacy and Guardianship. Among other things, House Bill 862 creates a new advisory council within the department, joining the current Division of Legal Advocacy and Division of Disability Rights and Protections.

The new department is slated to begin operations on July 1, 2027.

(Gilman–dm)-The Iroquois West School Board will have their regular school board meeting on Monday, June 22nd.  Items on the agenda include approval of the Life/Health/Safety 10 year survey, renew their property/casualty and liability insurance policies. Also they will have the first reading of the employee handbook as well as the first reading of many board policiesThe board meeting will start at 7pm in the High School Board Room

(Springfield–jc0  The Illinois Supreme Court and the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts have announced that Jerome Galang will be the new director of the Illinois Judicial College. Galang most recently worked as assistant division director at the Federal Judicial Center and previously served eight years in the Judicial Education Division and Judicial College Division of the AOIC.

(Bloomington–jc)   The Illinois High School Association Board has finalized expectations that require schools to have a 35-second shot clock for varsity boys and girls basketball games, starting with the 2026-27 IHSA season.

The IHSA says if a shot clock is not installed or properly mounted, the host school must secure an alternate facility or allow the opponent to host the contest.

WPXN News notes…

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series tonight with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

The Buckley Fire Department will hold a pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturday, June 20th from 6-10 am at the Buckley Fire Station.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

Onarga will hold their Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The parade will take place at 11 am, antique tractor pull at noon, talent show and lazy days car show at 1, firemen's water ball, bingo, and petting zoo at 2, kiddie tractor pull at 3, Live Music by The Fairchilds at 4 along with adult and kid retro games at 4. 

Rankin will hold their Independence Day celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The day starts with a fun walk/run at 8 am, community church service at 10, food stands open at 11, bingo 11:30-12:30, kids games 12:30-1:30, car show 1-4, cake walk at 1:30, foam party 2-3, kids activities from 4-8, live music from 3:30-9 and fireworks at dusk.

(Undated-jm) — The WPXN listening area missed out on the worst of the severe weather yesterday. The day started with a level 4 out of 5 severe weather risk however morning rains kept the severe threat to the south. Tornadoes were reported on the ground near Springfield, Charleston and Effingham. Large hail was also reported. The only issues in the WPXN listening area was heavy rain that brought flooding.

(Springfield-jm) – Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced on Wednesday that some senior drivers will soon have an easier time renewing their driver’s licenses. Starting July 1, Illinois will be eliminating the mandatory behind-the-wheel driving tests for Illinois drivers ages 79 to 86, Giannoulias said. This change is part of the Road Safety & Fairness Act, which raises the age at which senior drivers will have to take the tests from 79 to 87. Drivers aged 79 to 86 will still need to pass a vision screening to renew their licences. Drivers aged 81 to 86 will need to renew their licence every two years, with only a vision test. Drivers aged 87 and older will still need to renew their licence annually with a vision test and a behind-the-wheel test. Illinois is the only state that requires senior drivers to have their behind-the-wheel skills tested annually.

(Mahomet–jc)  Illinois Governor J B Pritzker signed the new fiscal year budget into law this week. It is the highest amount of spending in the state’s history at 55 point 9 Billion dollars. 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose Republican from Mahomet says the democrat majority continues to spend more each year and will look for even more money during the fall veto session…

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet

(Rantoul–jc)  The Maverick Pipe Group in Rantoul is expanding its operations in the village and village leaders are helping with a redevelopment agreement with the local company. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third talks about the expansion and agreement…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign City Council voted 7-0 on a construction bid for phase two of the expansion to the downtown plaza. The expansion will be at Neil and Washington Streets, and it will fill in the nearby parking lot and add a green space. There will also be upgrades to the surrounding streets. A $12 million grant is paying for most of the project, and nearly $2 million of TIF money and tax revenue will also go to the plaza. Construction is expected to start in August.

(Benton–jc)  A federal jury has convicted a former Harrisburg man for manufacturing and possessing unregistered short-barreled rifles and possessing unregistered silencers. Yaroslav Vishnevski, 33, was charged in May 2024 after U.S. Customs and Border Protection intercepted a package from China containing unregistered silencers addressed to his residence.  Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 24 at the Benton courthouse.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Park District pool is up and running for the summer. There were a lot of thank you’s from the Paxton Park District Board to those getting the pool open for the season.  Paxton Park District Board Interim President Craig Kief talks about several of those…

Paxton Park District Interim President Craig Kief

(The Center Square) – A state representative has filed new legislation aimed at keeping the Chicago Bears in Illinois, but Governor  J-.B  Pritzker says the Bears have to decide what they want first. 52nd District State Representative, Republican  Martin McLaughlin of Barrington Hills filed his legislation this week. House  Bill 57-97 applies to private developments with more than  Two and a half Billion dollars of investments located in counties with more than one million people. The proposal calls for the state to spend 1 point two Billion dollars on  the project.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois waterfowl blind drawings sites and schedule for the 2026 season have been released. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will conduct the blind drawings at public hunting sites across the state in July and August. Applicants need to present a 2025 or 2026 regular Illinois hunting license. Apprentice licenses will not be accepted. Youth license holders must also present hunter safety certification. Hunters must also provide a 2025 or 2026 Illinois migratory waterfowl stamp, unless exempt by law, and a valid photo ID at registration. Applicants need to be 16 or older by the drawing date.

(Paxton–jc)  The state of Illinois is looking into legislation to regulate the use of E-Bikes and scooters.City of Paxton leaders are also wanting to put some regulations into place as these types of vehicles are used in the city. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the city is looking for direction from the state for safety and more…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Northern Illinois–jc0  The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce has launched the Grow Chicago initiative to support the success of local businesses and boost economic development According to the chamber’s 2025 Chicagoland Small Business Outlook Survey, conducted in partnership with the University of Illinois Chicago College of Business, 70% of respondents said they expected the local economy to get worse in the coming year, a dramatic increase from 43% the year before.

(Bloomington-jm) – Bloomington’s Miller Park Zoo saw the birth of four red wolf pups earlier this month, a critically endangered species, with only 25 known to be left in the wild. The newborns are considered important, because of the animals’ endangered status, but the zoo said the end goal is to raise them to eventually be released back into the wild and add to their population. The zoo was able to find a male for the female red wolf, after its last male red wolf passed away late last year. For those interested in seeing the pups, the zoo said to keep an eye on its social media to see when they’re ready for the public. For now, if viewers go early enough, the mom red wolf peeks outside early in the morning to view spectators.

(Melvin–jc)  Activities at the Ford County Fair were  cancelled for last night due to wet weather. Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins says the fair has an Illiana Truck and Tractor Pull set for Tonight, the Journey Cover band Resurrection set for Friday night and another big day on Saturday…

Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins

(Normal-jm) – Illinois State University’s leaders are less than thrilled about the state budget, signed Tuesday by Gov. Pritzker, which provides a much smaller funding increase than ISU’s president requested. Universities never receive all they want at budget time, but the state spending plan that takes effect July 1 did not come close to President Aondover Tarhule’s request. The budget allocates almost $83 million for the university, a 1% increase, or about $822,000 more than the previous fiscal year. The governor’s office is also releasing 2% in reserve funding, which amounts to approximately $1.6 million, for the current fiscal year. Tarhule, appearing before an Illinois House committee in April, asked for $20 million more to help pay for financial aid for low-income students, and to keep up with higher operating costs to keep up with inflation.

(Buckley–jc)  Buckley Fun Day is this Saturday with activities at Buckley Lake. The day starts with a fishing derby and St John’s Ladies Bake sale. Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster says lots of activities are planned to start at 11am…

Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster. WPXN will be stopping by Saturday morning as part of our Summer Fun Tour 2026. It’s stop number 3

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois Governor J-B  Pritzker has signed legislation that provides 110 million dollars  in state taxpayer funds during fiscal year 2027 to expand and invest in Medicaid services. The governor’s office says the taxpayer funds will build a foundation to protect patients in anticipation of federal legislation  impacting the health care system in Illinois.

WPXN News notes…

The 100th annual Ford County Fair will take place through the 20th at the fairgrounds in Melvin.  Today, its an Illiana truck and tractor pulls at 6:30. On Friday night its Journey Tribute Band Resurrection at 7:30.  The annual Demo Derby is set for Saturday night at  6:30.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on today from 11:30-5:30.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 19th with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

The Buckley Fire Department will hold a pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturday, June 20th from 6-10 am at the Buckley Fire Station.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper on Friday, June 26th from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, June 27th from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

Onarga will hold their Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The parade will take place at 11 am, antique tractor pull at noon, talent show and lazy days car show at 1, firemens water ball, bingo, and petting zoo at 2, kiddie tractor pull at 3, Live Music by The Fairchilds at 4 along with adult and kid retro games at 4. 

Rankin will hold their Independence Day celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The day starts with a fun walk/run at 8 am, community church service at 10, food stands open at 11, bingo 11:30-12:30, kids games 12:30-1:30, car show 1-4, cake walk at 1:30, foam party 2-3, kids activities from 4-8, live music from 3:30-9 and fireworks at dusk.

Hoopeston will hold their Red, White and Boom on Friday, July 3rd with a color run at 8 am, car show at 10, chili cookoff at noon, touch a truck from 2-4, golf cart and pet parade at 4, red white and boom party featuring inflatables, cornhole tournament and watermelon eating from 4:30-7:30, 90 proof performing at 7:30 and fireworks at dusk at the soccer fields.

(Undated-jm) – Significant severe weather including intense long track tornadoes and destructive winds are possible across the WPXN listening area today. The National Weather Service has the area under a level 4 out of 5 for the dangerous storms. Two rounds of weather are expected. A round that is expected later this morning into the early afternoon and then a larger, more severe and impactful round this evening.

(Springfield–jc)  Reaction from Republicans in Springfield after Illinois Governor J B Pritzker signed a record high 55 point 9 Billion dollar budget on Tuesday. Dean Abbott reports from the capitol…

(Rantoul-jm) – A 19-year-old was taken to the hospital after being shot in Rantoul Tuesday afternoon. The Rantoul Police Department said officers were dispatched to the 1300 block of Juniper Drive around 2:30 p.m. after a caller reported that someone had been shot. When officers arrived on the scene, they found a 19-year-old male victim who had been shot in the leg. He was taken to an area hospital but is expected to be okay. 

(Rantoul–jc) The village of Rantoul is systematically upgrade water wells for the Water treatment plant in the village. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says well number 10 is the next to get the upgrade…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Springfield-jm) – A bill on Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could help wrongfully convicted people receive more compensation from the state. There have been roughly 600 exonerations in Illinois since 1989, but current laws have led to inconsistent and inadequate compensation for exonerees.  This plan could provide exonerees up to $50,000 per year of wrongful imprisonment, including time spent in pretrial detention or a juvenile detention facility before exoneration. The legislation also states that people should receive $25,000 for each year they wrongfully spent on probation, parole or the sex offender registry.

(Melvin–jc)  The first concert was a success at the Ford County Fair in Melvin this past Saturday. The fair continues today through Saturday with a Little Miss and Little Mister contest at 5-30 today and a talent show tonight at 7. Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins says a second concert is set for Friday night with the national cover band–Resurrection…

Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins

(Champaign–jc) One teenager is dead and another is in critical condition after a shooting Monday night in Champaign. In updating our story,  Authorities say officers responded to the shooting around 9-30 Monday night in the area of North McKinley and Paula Avenue Upon arrival, officers found two teenagers with gunshot wounds. Both were taken to local hospitals, where a 16 year old  succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.

(Buckley–jc)  Buckley Fun day is set for Saturday in the southern Iroquois County town. Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster says the day begins with a fishing derby and bake sale…

Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster. WPXN will be stopping by live Saturday morning as part of our Summer Fun Tour 20-26. 

(Springfield–jc)  –The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says it is accepting applications for the State Pheasant Fund Special Funds and the Illinois Habitat Fund Special Funds Grant programs from July 1 through August 1.

The habitat programs are intended to enhance the natural environment for pheasant and wildlife through projects developed by not-for-profit organizations and governmental entities for conservation. Grant funding comes from the sale of habitat stamps.

(Springfield-jm) – A federal lawsuit filed last week seeks to block an Illinois law allowing doctors to help terminally ill patients end their own lives ahead of its Sept. 12 effective date. The complaint, brought by medical advocacy groups, an Illinois-based physician and two disabled Illinoisans, claims the law discriminates against people with disabilities and lacks significant safeguards or oversight, violating due process and equal protection. The End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act, or EOLA, will allow doctors to prescribe lethal medication to a terminal patient if they meet certain qualifications and make two oral requests at least five days apart. The law was passed in October 2025 and signed by the governor in December. 

(Melvin–jc)  The newly crowned Miss Ford County Fair 20-26 is Londyn Roderick from Gibson City.  Rodderick talks about the amount of time spent in practices and preparation to compete in the queen pageant…

She is a senior at Gibson City Melvin Sibley High School…

Miss Ford County Fair Queen 20-26 Londyn Rodeick of Gibson City

(McLean County-jm) – The McLean County Board has approved 13 rules for future data centers, now making the county one of the most restrictive in the state. The regulations include noise limitations, landscaping screens, water source and limitations, battery capacities, and more. Applicants will also have to provide the board with information on anticipated impacts, electricity usage, and a decommissioning plan. 

(Paxton-jm) – A new lawsuit has been filed against a Paxton-Buckley-Loda teacher and former coach who was previously accused of sexual misconduct by former students. This marks the fourth civil lawsuit against Rob Pacey, and the sixth accusation of misconduct. The PBL school district hired a consultant last August to investigate allegations made in June 2025, determining that the teacher did not violate the district's Title IX policies. The lawsuits also accused district staff members of failing to act despite at least 22 reports of misconduct against the teacher.

(Paxton–jc)  The annual City of Paxton Swine and Dine is set for September 19 in the downtown area of the city. The city of Paxton is helping with the popular event with a 15 thousand dollar donation. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the event is growing and “judging” is being done by those trained for the chicken and ribs categories…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Champaign–jc)  All lanes of Interstate 57 northbound near mile marker 222 were closed for several hours yesterday morning. An overturned semi in the northbound lanes was the cause for delays. Traffic was re-routed around the accident scene til around noon. Traffic is back to normal this morning. 

(Kempton–jc)  The Ford County Republican Party is planning their quarterly breakfast event for Saturday July 11th in Kempton. Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett says the subjects covered are those effecting residents of Ford County…

Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett. The event is free to attend.

(The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a 55-point-Nine Billion state budget for fiscal year 2027, with tens of millions of dollars included for non-governmental organizations.The governor placed his signature on the new spending plan in Chicago on Tuesday, calling it his eighth straight balanced budget. The revenue plan imposes new taxes on digital advertising, digital assets, fantasy sports and prediction contests, places new limits on income tax carryover deductions, creates a social media platform fee and raises environmental filing fees and the retail tire tax. This is the biggest budget in the history of the state of Illinois. 

WPXN News notes…

The 100th annual Ford County Fair will take place through the 20th at the fairgrounds in Melvin.  Today and tomorrow Illiana truck and tractor pulls at 6:30. On the 19th its Journey Tribute Band Resurrection at 7:30. On the 20th its the Demolition Derby at 6:30pm.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on Thursday, June 18th from 11:30-5:30.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 19th with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

The 2026 Buckley Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 20th with the ladies aid bake sale and sportsmans club fishing derby at 9 am, tractor show from 10-2, golfing into the lake and kids inflatables from 11-2, CLHS food stand at 11 am, 4-H coloring contest 11-noon, tractor parade at noon, bingo from 1-2, kids tractor pull at 2 and the Lions Club Duck Race at 3:17pm.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill on Governor JB Pritzker's desk could expand access to life-saving asthma medication at schools. The plan allows schools to keep a supply of asthma medication in secure locations that are accessible before, during, or after school where someone may be at risk. That includes practice fields, gyms and other athletic facilities. Emergency asthma treatment was provided more than 2,600 times in participating schools during the 2024-2025 school year alone.

(The Center Square) – The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services has awarded new HealthChoice Illinois contracts to six Medicaid Managed Care Organizations. The state agency says the new agreements will hold the organizations accountable for how they serve customers by promoting whole person care. The program impacts about 2.4 million of the Illinois Medicaid program’s 3.1 million enrollees.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and the Illinois Retail Merchants Association announced $24.7 million in funding for 434 entities through the Illinois Pharmacy Support Program. The program was designed to help pharmacies most at risk of closure or financial strain, especially those in rural areas, low-income areas, or populations with limited access to healthcare. Every eligible pharmacy that applied received $56,892. The 434 pharmacies getting funding span almost all of Illinois' 102 counties. Among the recipients are the Walgreens in Rantoul, the St. Joseph Apothecary in St. Joseph, Gibson Family Medicine and Scott Family Pharmacy in Gibson City, Hudson Drug Shop in Paxton, Gilman Pharmacy in Gilman and Kelly Drugs in Milford. 

(USDA–dm)-What were some of the highlighted items within USDA's supply and demand estimates for U.S. and world soybean crops?  Rod Bain has the story

(Champaign County-jm) – Investigators looking into three retail thefts in Urbana and Savoy believe the same person may be responsible for all of them. Crime Stoppers is asking the public for help in identifying the suspect. Officials said that on May 25 and May 28, the suspect selected at least $500 in trading cards at Savoy’s Walmart and left without paying. Also on May 28, the suspect concealed approximately $160 worth of meat products at Urbana’s Schnucks and also left without paying. The suspect is described as a white male with dark facial hair with tattoos on his arms and upper right back/shoulder. He was wearing the following clothes during each theft: May 25 at Walmart — a black hat, a black tank top, khaki cargo shorts, black and gold Nike shoes, May 28 at Walmart — a black hat, a black flannel shirt, a black t-shirt with red and white lettering and camouflage cargo shorts and May 28 at Schnucks — a black Addidas sweatshirt, the same camouflage cargo shorts and the same black and gold Nike shoes.

(Iroquois County-jm) – A fourth tornado was confirmed in Iroquois County following last week's severe weather outbreak. The EF-1 tornado struck near Milford damaging several outbuildings on a property. The weather service is still assessing 7 additional tracks for potential confirmation of tornadoes. Tomorrow could be another significant severe weather day for the area.

(Melvin–dm)-The 100th Ford County Fair is underway in Melvin.  Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins tells us about the activities going on today at the fairgrounds. 

Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins

(Champaign–dm)-The Champaign County Coroner’s Office has identified the person that had a medical emergency at the Champaign County Correctional Center. David A. Henley, 56, of Penfield, was pronounced dead at 5:32am on June 13, 2026, at Carle Foundation Hospital Emergency Room. An autopsy has been scheduled. The incident remains under investigation by the Champaign County Coroner’s Office and the Illinois State Police.

(Illinois–dm)-The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is inviting families to participate in free fishing days from Friday through June 22. Anglers can fish on these days without purchasing a fishing license, salmon stamp or inland trout stamp. The state charges $15 for resident fishing licenses. Fees for other licenses can be found on IDNR’s fishing licenses website.

(Melvin–jc)  –Gibson City Melvin Sibley’s Londyn Roderick is the 2026 Miss Ford County Fair Queen. The annual pageant was held last night at the fairgrounds in Melvin. Kyra Kitzman of Gibson City was named runner up and Miss Congeniality is Raven Armstrong of Gibson City. 

(Springfield–jc)  –According to new analysis, Illinois has the fifth-highest average federal student loan balance in America, with the average borrower owing $39,042.

S-E-O Backlinks used state-level student loan debt data and checked total statewide balances to show the scale of debt in each location.  Maryland had the highest average borrower debt with $43,781. Illinois was the only Midwestern state in the top 10.

(Chicago–jc)  This is the day Illinois Governor J B Pritzker is expected to sign the largest state budget in Illinois history. The proposed budget is 55 point 9 Billion dollars. The new budget also includes 800 million dollars in more taxes for Illinoisans. The budget is balanced. The governor will sign the budget at 11 this morning. 

(Springfield-jm) – Illinoisans will now have access to a large collection of high quality digital information and educational resources for free by going to their local library or the Illinois State Library’s website. The Illinois Reliable Information Sources program was announced by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. The state entered a contract with EBSCO Information Services, to provide access to more than 50 of their databases to all Illinois residents. The new service includes free access to online databases with e-books, peer-reviewed journals, magazines, newspapers and research databases on topics such as business, education, health, technology, science and more.

(Melvin–dm)-We had a chance to talk with 2025 Miss Ford County Fair Queen Charlie Ulrich and asked her advice to the next Miss Ford County Queen.

2025 Miss Ford County Queen Charlie Ulrich.  Londyn Roderick of Gibson City was named the 2026 Miss Ford County Fair Queen last night.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana business is closed after they took a direct hit from a tornado last week. Beck’s Country Shop suffered significant damage from the tornado. The large sign out front is laying down, the roof was ripped off and walls collapsed. They intend to re-open but they don’t know when that will happen.

(Undated-jm) - GasBuddy reports the average price for a gallon of gas in Illinois has fallen nearly 20 cents over the past week down to $4.31. It still remains $1.10 higher than a year ago. The average price of diesel is $5.49. The national average for a gallon of gas is $3.99. In Indiana the average price for a gallon of gas is 2-90 cents.

(Paxton–dm)-The kids have been out of school for a couple of weeks, and they are bored.  Paxton Library Director Deb Mason tells us about the Library’s summer reading program.

Paxton Library Director Deb Mason.  You can go to the Library’s website to find more activities.

(Kempton–dm)-Thr Tri-Point Board of Education will hold their monthly meeting on Wednesday June 17th.  Items on the agenda include approval of the 2026-2027 budget, approve Student Handbook updates, consideration of a resolution providing for the issue and sale not to exceed $300,000 of health life safety bonds, and for the levy of taxes to pay the bonds. Also approve a contract in the amount of $19,000 to insulate the ag shop ceiling. Also the board will have an acknowledgement of the retirement of Scott Saffer.  The Board will hold an Amended budget hearing at 6:15, followed by the regular meeting at 6:30

(The Center Square) – The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed legislation sponsored by U.S. Rep. Mary Miller, R-Ill., aimed at strengthening oversight of federal childcare assistance programs and cracking down on fraud.

Speaking on the House floor, Miller urged support for H.R. 7726, the Stop Childcare Scams Act, saying the measure aligns with efforts by President Donald Trump’s administration “to rid the federal government of waste, fraud, and abuse.”

Miller argued the Childcare and Development Block Grant program has long been vulnerable to improper payments and fraud. Citing a 2020 report from the Government Accountability Office, she said there were an estimated $325 million in improper payments nationwide during fiscal year 2019.

WPXN News notes

The 100th annual Ford County Fair will take place now through Saturday at the fairgrounds in Melvin. Tonight its Family night, children's tractor pull and talent show at 7. On Wednesday and Thursday its the Illiana truck and tractor pulls at 6:30. On the 19th its Journey Tribute Band Resurrection at 7:30. On the 20th its the Demolition Derby at 6:30pm.

Ford County ROSC and the Ford/Iroquois Farm Bureau  will host a free rural mental health training on Tuesday, June 16th from 4-6 pm at the Kruse Center in Gibson City.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on Thursday, June 18th from 11:30-5:30.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 19th with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

The 2026 Buckley Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 20th with the ladies aid bake sale and sportsmans club fishing derby at 9 am, tractor show from 10-2, golfing into the lake and kids inflatables from 11-2, CLHS food stand at 11 am, 4-H coloring contest 11-noon, tractor parade at noon, bingo from 1-2, kids tractor pull at 2 and the Lions Club Duck Race at 3:17pm.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper on Friday, June 26th from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, June 27th from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

(Undated-jm) – The National Weather Service spent the weekend assessing damage from last week’s severe weather. They found tornado damage northeast of Ludlow, rating it an EF-1. They also rated EF-1 tornadoes Northwest of Paxton to Southeast of Loda, through the north side of Urbana, through Kickapoo State Park in Vermilion County and on the south side of Hoopeston. EF-0 tornadoes were confirmed from southwest of Gibson City to near Elliott and 2 EF-0 tornadoes from Watseka to west of Rensselaer, Indiana. Damage in Chaneyville was from 100 mph rear flank downdraft winds while strong straight line winds caused the rest of the damage around the WPXN listening area.  Unfortunately, more severe weather including the risk of damaging winds and tornadoes is in the forecast for Wednesday.

(Champaign County-jm) – A male inmate that had been in custody in Champaign County for nearly a month was found unresponsive Friday morning and later died in the hospital. In a press release, the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office said at approximately 4:45 a.m. on June 13, correctional staff found an inmate unresponsive. Correctional staff and on-site medical staff immediately began performing life-saving efforts. The inmate was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. While the preliminary investigation shows the inmate likely suffered a medical emergency, the Sheriff has asked the Illinois State Police to oversee the investigation of this incident, as is standard protocol for an in-custody death.

(USDA–dm)-Discovery of new outdoor activities and volunteer efforts are available in recreation areas from our nation's forests to your local park.  Rod Bain has the story.

(Champaign-jm) — A 19 year old man is in critical condition after a shooting early Sunday morning in Champaign. Police say the teen who had been shot in the torso arrived at a local hospital just before 2 am. Investigators believe the man was a passenger in a vehicle traveling in the 1600 block of North Mattis Avenue when someone started shooting at the vehicle. Officers located evidence of gunfire in the area.

(Paxton–dm)-If you have bare spots in your yard, Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen tells us one way to repair them.

Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen.  You can hear more from Scott

Saturday mornings at 730 on Scott’s Tips for success,

(St. Louis–dm)-The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis says the Producer Price Index for final demand rose 1.1% in May, following a similar increase in April. The index representing the wholesale cost of U.S. goods and services had not previously seen an increase of more than 1% since March 2022.

(Springfield–dm)-Saturday was the one-year anniversary of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s sentencing on public corruption charges. On June 13, 2025, U.S. District Court Judge John Robert Blakey sentenced Madigan to 7.5 years in federal prison and ordered him to pay a fine of $2.5 million. Madigan, 84, reported to a federal prison camp in Morgantown, West Virginia on Oct. 13, 2025. According to the Bureau of Prisons, the former speaker’s scheduled release date is Dec. 4, 2031.

(Urbana-jm) – Four people including two children were taken to the hospital following a fire in Urbana Saturday afternoon. The fire happened just before 12:30 Saturday afternoon. Two adults and two children were outside the home suffering from burns. They were taken to the hospital. The state fire marshal and Champaign County Sheriff’s office are investigating.

(Paxton–jc)  The annual city of Paxton Swine and Dine is set for Saturday September 19th in downtown Paxton. City of Paxton leaders are making a donation of 15 thousand dollars to help support the growing cooking competition and music festival says Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Urbana-jm) – A former University of Illinois police officer was sentenced to over two decades in prison following his conviction on sexual assault charges. Jerald Sandage was sentenced to 25 years in prison after he was found guilty on two counts of criminal sexual assault. Sandage has three other court cases related to sexual assault still pending.

(Undated-jm) – No Kings Rallies were held across the state including some locally on Sunday. The rallies were held in connection to President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday.  Locally in Paxton about 20 people participated in the downtown peaceful march and protest event. 

(Cissna Park–dm)-The Cissna Park Development Board has been hosting townhall meetings to discuss the creation of a Park District in the city of Cissna Park. Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer talks about what information they get from the participants.

Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachel Bauer

(Mahomet-jm) – A new solar project is being proposed in Mahomet. The project, by a Chicago based company, is being proposed off I-74 near Karadan Drive and Ranch Lane. It would take up to 14 acres and power about 600 homes each year. The company hopes to start construction this fall.

(Vermilion County-jm) – A Vermilion County man will spend the next 12 years in prison after pleading guilty to the sexual assault of a minor in 2023. Jeremy Lowenstein pleaded guilty to predatory criminal sexual assault. He must serve at least 85 percent of the 12 years and will serve a minimum of three years supervised release.

(Illinois–dm)-June 15th is Elder Abuse Awareness Day and the Dept. of aging encourages everyone to learn the warning signs and report abuse.  WPXN's Dan Mushrush has the story

CHICAGO – Friday, Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity along with the Illinois Retail Merchants Association  announced $24 point 7 million dollars in funding for 434 companies through the Illinois Pharmacy Support Program. The effort is to strengthen access to pharmacy services across Illinois. The program was designed to assist pharmacies around the state most at risk of closure or financial strain, particularly those serving in rural areas, low-income communities, or populations with limited access to health care. 

Every eligible pharmacy that applied received the same amount of $56,892 to ensure support for pharmacies that serve as essential health care access points in their communities. 

CHICAGO — Friday, Governor JB Pritzker signed SB 3222 – landmark hemp legislation that strengthens social equity and medical access, reduces regulatory burdens, strengthens oversight, and improves public safety. SB 3222 is key to ensuring that the state’s cannabis sector remains safe for consumers and that Illinois continues to set a national example with its diversity and equity efforts in the cannabis industry. The bill immediately bans the sale of intoxicating hemp products to people under the age of 21,

WPXN News notes…

The 100th annual Ford County Fair continues today through Saturday at the fairgrounds in Melvin. Tonight, its the Queen Pageant at 7. On the 16th its Family night, children's tractor pull and talent show at 7. On the 17th and 18th its the Illiana truck and tractor pulls at 6:30. On the 19th its Journey Tribute Band Resurrection at 7:30. On the 20th its the Demolition Derby at 6:30pm.

Ford County ROSC and the Ford/Iroquois Farm Bureau  will host a free rural mental health training on Tuesday, June 16th from 4-6 pm at the Kruse Center in Gibson City.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on Thursday, June 18th from 11:30-5:30.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 19th with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

WPXN News notes…

The 2026 Buckley Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 20th withThe Buckley Fire Department will holding a pancake and sausage breakfast  6-10 am at the Buckley Fire Station.  The ladies aid bake sale and sportsmans club fishing derby start at 9 am, tractor show from 10-2, golfing into the lake and kids inflatables from 11-2, CLHS food stand at 11 am, 4-H coloring contest 11-noon, tractor parade at noon, bingo from 1-2, kids tractor pull at 2 and the Lions Club Duck Race at 3:17pm.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

(Illinois–jc) Straight-line winds and  rains plummeted East Central Illinois last night. Power outage reports are scattered throughout the WPXN listening area. In Rantoul numerous streets had limbs and branches scattered on village roads. Several power outage reports were made in Rantoul. Also in Champaign County, power outages were reported near Leverett and in Champaign along Prospect Mattis and Kirby Avenues. More power outages were reported in the St Joe, Ogden and Fithian areas due to last night's storms. Iroquois County also reported storm damage from last night. The city of Watseka reports storm damage especially on the south side of the city. The Iroquois County courthouse is closed today. Power outages were also reported in rural Iroquois county this morning. 

The city of Gilman also reported that an Amtrak train was stopped near the Iroquois county town due to debris on the railroad tracks

Please report any damage in your area to news-at-wpxnradio.com.

A tornado was reported in Hoopeston in Vermilion County. The storm moved through the south side of the city. Damage was reported at Hoopeston Area High School and the Nutrien Ag plant near Hoopeston

At the height of the storm, Ameren and E I E C officials reported thousands of customers without power. Efforts to restore power continue this morning. 

A tornado was reported near Streator causing some major property damage.  The National Weather Service is providing damage survey teams this morning to provide more official information on last night's storms.

WPXN News will continue to update this story as more official news becomes available.

(Mattoon–jc)   Following an agreement that includes state tax incentives, Rural King has broken ground on a 75 million dollar store support center in Coles County. According to Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the Illinois Department of Transportation, is working with the city of Mattoon on grant funding for a road that would provide access to the new campus. Later this year, IDOT is expected to break ground on an $82 million reconstruction of the nearby Interstate 57 interchange with Illinois 16.

The Rural King project is expected to create 100 new full-time jobs and retain 719 existing jobs. The farm and home supply retailer was founded in Mattoon in 1960.

(northern Illinois–jc– Illinois American Water customers are invited to comment on the utility’s proposed rate increase at a public forum in Bolingbrook on July 14. Illinois American requested a $142.4 million rate hike from the Illinois Commerce Commission earlier this year and estimated the typical residential customer would pay an extra $14 per month. The forum is scheduled from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on July 14 

(Rantoul–jc) Rantoul leaders took the next step this week to get the new Prospect Sub-Station Project underway on the west side of the village. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says they hired The L E Myers Company at an investment to the village of 4 million 851 thousand dollars…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Paxton–jc)  The city of Paxton continued its help to downtown businesses for redevelopment agreements. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says one is for a property of 202 north Market Street in downtown Paxton…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Undated–jc)   Gas prices continued to drop this week, but they remain well above the 2025 numbers. Triple A’s average price for a gallon of regular unleaded this morning was $4.45 in Illinois, down from nearly 5 dollars in May Triple A’s  current national average is $4.13. Closer to home the average price of gas in Paxton is 4 dollars 85 cents per gallon. In Rantoul the average price is $ dollars 65 cents. Champaign Urbana’s average price for a gallon of gas is 4 dollars 20 cents. In Iroquois County several Caseys locations averages just over 4 dollars per gallon

(Melvin–jc)  The 100th Ford County Fair starts this Saturday and runs through the following Saturday at the fairgrounds in Melvin. Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins talks about the final days of the fair next thursday Friday and Saturday…

Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins

(Illinois–jc) B-P officials say the Whiting, Indiana refinery and the United Steelworkers Local 7-1 bargaining committee remain far apart on proposals to reach a new labor agreement.The two sides held their 63rd formal bargaining session on Wednesday. City officials in Whiting, East Chicago, Hammond and Crown Point have called on BP to end the lockout that began in March. BP said on Wednesday that the refinery continues to operate safely, reliably and compliantly.

(USDA–dm)-The Agriculture Department's June winter wheat production forecast released Thursday shows another reduction in the size of this year's crop.  Rod Bain has the story.

(Springfield-jc)  According to a poll released by the Merchants Payment Coalition, 75% of likely voters say Congress should act to reduce electronic processing fees on credit and debit card transactions. The survey results come after the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act was blocked by a federal judge last week and swipe fee legislation in Colorado was vetoed.Payment processors, banking and credit union associations oppose the Illinois law, which would ban processing fees on the tax and tip portions of credit and debit card transactions.

(Rantoul–dm)-The Rantoul Historical Society and Museum Was founded in 1973 with the purpose of collecting and preserving information on the history of the Village of Rantoul. Rantoul Historical Society and Museum Spokesperson Jim Cheek has more information

 Rantoul Historical Society and Museum Spokesperson Jim Cheek.  The Museum is located at 1040 Pine Ave. in Rantoul.

CHAMPAIGN – On Monday in the city of Champaign, weather permitting, MicroSurfacing Contractors will begin sealing streets in the northern one-third of Champaign The residential streets will be closed for about four hours until cured. Heavily traveled streets with businesses will have one lane open at all times.

Residents will be notified by door flyers the day before closing, and they should park their cars outside the work area if needed.  Do not park in the “No Parking” zones daily. The work throughout the city should take about two weeks to complete

(Cissna Park–dm)-The first Shop the Park in Cissna Park 2026 will be going on this Saturday from 9AM-1PM. Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer tells us what to expect.

Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer. There will also be live music, donuts and coffee from 830-1030, shaved ice and face painting.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle has appointed Angela Manning-Hardimon as chief financial officer of the county’s finance bureau. Manning-Hardimon previously served as a CFO at Fermilab and at the Illinois Institute of Technology.

(Paxton–jc)  The city of Paxton continued its help to downtown businesses for redevelopment agreements. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says one is for a property on Center Street in the city…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

WPXN News notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, June 12th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 12th with Candy Foster and Shades of Blue performing downtown from 6-9pm .

The 2026 Mahomet Soda Fest will take place on Saturday, June 13th from 10-6.

The 100th annual Ford County Fair will take place June 13th-20th at the fairgrounds in Melvin. On the 13th its Clay Walker with Walker Montgomery at 7:30pm. On the 14th its the Jackpot Breeding Gilt Show. On the 15th, its the Queen Pageant at 7. On the 16th its Family night, children's tractor pull and talent show at 7. On the 17th and 18th its the Illiana truck and tractor pulls at 6:30. On the 19th its Journey Tribute Band Resurrection at 7:30. On the 20th its the Demolition Derby at 6:30pm.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul says his office was underfunded by $10 million in the latest budget, and that could make it more difficult to fight legal battles against the Trump Administration while still fulfilling its enforcement duties in the state. Raoul made that statement during an event at the City Club of Chicago where he also talked about the challenges of working with a federal government. The Attorney General’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year is $184.5 million, $10 million less than last year.

(Champaign–jc) Champaign County Sheriff's police responded to a “shots fired’ incident on Wednesday afternoon in rural Champaign. Police say deputies were called to the 200 block of Cameron Drive near Champaign. Upon Investigation, they found additional evidence. No one was hurt in the incident.The  Champaign County Sheriff’s office continues to investigate the incident this morning.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill that will soon head to Governor J-B Pritzker's desk will officially remove an estimated 10,000 people from the state’s Medicaid program, leaving them without any form of health coverage. That group is made up mainly of people who are not U-S citizens but who are in the country legally, according to the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights. President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill removed eligibility for nearly all noncitizens except lawful permanent residents, Cuban and Haitian entrants and migrants from certain Pacific island nations. In order to comply with the change in federal law, Illinois lawmakers included language in the Medicaid omnibus bill removing most groups of noncitizens from eligibility under state law.

(Springfield-jm) – The State Board of Education adopted the Illinois Comprehensive Numeracy Plan Wednesday. The plan is a first of its kind statewide framework designed to support schools and districts in strengthening mathematics for students. The plan provides research based guidance to help teachers build students confidence, reasoning and problem solving skills in mathematics. The plan does not mandate curriculum or specific programs but instead provides a framework that districts can adopt or adapt based on local needs.

(Gibson City–jc)  With a new budget of nearly 56 Billion Dollars, the state of Illinois will have a new budget going into fiscal year 2027. The budget was passed along party lines with the majority Democrats pushing the increases that also include 800 Million dollars in new taxes. Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett of Gibson City reacts to the new budget stating that the budget process continues to be just one sided with the Democrats in the majority…

Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett

(Gibson City-jm) – Gibson City is moving forward with a plan they hope will generate more residents. The city council is offering an incentive for new homeowners. The new program will give buyers a $10,000 reimbursement after they close on at least one of more than 20 lots where a new home has been built. The city is working with a bank to offer low interest loans to compete with other communities in the area. The lots are in the Railside Estate and Falcon Pointe subdivisions.

(Urbana-jm) – A small amount of mercury was thrown away at a lab on the University of Illinois campus Wednesday, leading to an Illini Alert asking the public to stay away. The alert announced that hazardous materials were released at 205 North Mathews in Urbana, which is the Newmark Civil Engineering Laboratory. The mercury was contained and the incident was resolved.

(Paxton–jc)  City of Paxton council members passed several redevelopment agreements at this week’s city council meeting. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says one is with the Cagle Law Office Building in the downtown area…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(The Center Square) – Illinois Governor  J.B. Pritzker says there could be a special legislative session in Illinois this summer, but he won’t raise people’s taxes to pay for a new Chicago Bears stadium. Speaking in Chicago the governor says a special session would happen if the General Assembly can get together on one piece of Bears legislation.  The fall veto session is scheduled Nov. 17-19 and Dec. 1-3.

(Chicago–jc)  –More than 92,000 Illinois consumers have lost or dropped Affordable Care Act health insurance in recent months. The Chicago Tribune reports that the unusually large decline followed the expiration of tax credits that had helped to curb the plans’ costs. Last month, Democrats on the Joint Economic Committee estimated that nearly 120 thousand people in Illinois would lose health insurance due to the A-C-A cuts.

(Springfield–jc)Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs has announced a new grant program. Charitable Trust Hunger Relief Grants provide up to $5,000 to volunteer-driven food pantries, soup kitchens and similar nonprofit organizations with no full-time employees. A statement from Frerichs’ office said he launched the program after the Trump administration cut funding for the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program and a program that allowed Illinois farmers to sell food to Meals on Wheels and food pantries.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill heading to Governor J–B Pritzker's desk could strengthen the state’s civil rights protections amid federal rollbacks. The plan codifies the use of disparate impact standards within the Illinois Human Rights Act. The change would create stronger protections than the federal minimum by safeguarding people from discrimination in employment, housing, education, financial credit and public housing.

(Springfield-jm) – A plan heading to Governor J-B Pritzker’s desk could help lower drug prices by regulating 340B contracts. The 340B drug pricing program was created in 1992 to improve access to care at safety net hospitals and clinics. It helps low income and uninsured patients get critical medicals, but state hospital leaders believe Big Pharma has limited access to medications, as 340Bs can only sign on pharmaceutical contracts. The bipartisan bill could stop a company from setting restrictions on a contract unless the limit is required by state or federal law. Opponents of the plan say there is no evidence Illinoisans are benefiting from the 340B program and reforms will not change that.

(Melvin–jc)  The Ford County Fair starts on Saturday in Melvin. The First day is the national Country Concert featuring Clay Walker and Walker Montgomery.

Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins says it's a one big day cattle show on Sunday…

Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins. The annual Queen Pageant is Monday night at 7. Fair activities continue through the week at the fairgrounds in Melvin

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man linked to a murder in New Mexico over 40 years ago is behind bars. Champaign Police arrested 73 year old Charlie Brown Junior in connection to the November 1983 homicide of 71 year old Agnes Tybo in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

(Champaign County-jm) – A nearly $50 million project is set to give more people, places and businesses access to internet services in Champaign County. Once all three phases are complete, nearly 600 miles of fiber internet will be laid, giving almost 3,000 new household connections to broadband. Phase one is expected to be complete by the end of the year, phase two is expected to be completed by 2030.

(Rantoul–jc)  The Spring and Summer weather is starting to “heat” up and for those needing help, there is a one stop center for those in Rantoul and Champaign County. Community Service Center of rantoul executive Director Cindy Crawford says electricity bill help is available and more…

Rantoul Community Service Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford

(Paxton–jc)  Another “No Kings” rally and march is set for the city of Paxton on Sunday.  The march is set for noon on Sunday at the corner of Pells and Market in downtown Paxton. The event is set on President Trump’s 80th birthday. A meet and greet at Veteran’s Square will take place after the rally and march. 

(The Center Square) – A congresswoman from Illinois has again brought calls on the United States Postal Service to improve rural delivery service in the country.

The issue, notable in her district and across Illinois, was raised amid larger conversations about the independent agency’s financial viability. U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski, Democrat from Springfield, is familiar with congressional discussions surrounding the independent federal agency, as she leads the Congressional Postal Service Caucus in the House. The  US Post Office  is self-funded and operated on 81billion dollars  in revenues with nearly 90 Billion dollars in expenses last year

(Springfie3ld–jc)  –According to a new report from the Tax Foundation, Illinois ranks 27th in the nation with a beer excise tax rate of 23 cents per gallon.

The report said Tennessee has the highest beer tax burden at $1.29. Wyoming’s rate of two cents a gallon is the lowest, followed by Missouri at six cents and Wisconsin at 6.5. The report said, in the United States, taxes are the most expensive ingredient in beer, accounting for more of the final price than labor and materials combined.

WPXN News notes…

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 19th with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

The Buckley Fire Department will hold a pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturday, June 20th from 6-10 am at the Buckley Fire Station.

The 2026 Buckley Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 20th with the ladies aid bake sale and sportsmans club fishing derby at 9 am, tractor show from 10-2, golfing into the lake and kids inflatables from 11-2, CLHS food stand at 11 am, 4-H coloring contest 11-noon, tractor parade at noon, bingo from 1-2, kids tractor pull at 2 and the Lions Club Duck Race at 3:17pm.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry on Friday, June 26th from 4:30-7pm at the Legion Building at Durham Park.

(Springfield-jm) - The Illinois General Assembly has adjourned until the fall veto session. When it reconvenes, soil and water conservation advocates plan to renew their push for county office funding. The Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts was confident going into the budget session the last week of May, but the group says not enough lawmakers recognize conservation issues as being a priority. They had two different initiatives: one to raise appropriations to $10 million for operations for soil and water conservation districts, and the other to create a sustainable revenue source to keep that going through a fee on ag land conversion. 

(Illinois–jc)  Power bills for homes, businesses and farmers have gone up significantly over the past decade. While neighboring Indiana has suspended the gas tax to help save  consumers and residents some dollars, Illinois has seen electric bills go up and no action on any short term gas tax suspension says 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet…

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet

(Urbana-jm) – A Ford County man from  Roberts was sentenced for threats. 41-year-old Paul Theesfield was sentenced to 21 months in prison for mailing a threatening communication. He is currently serving a 12 year sentence for attempted  kidnapping.  Federal prosecutors said Theesfield pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Eric I. Long to mailing a threatening communication to a victim in Gibson City. The long and graphic letter threatened to harm the victim’s husband and sexually assault the victim. Theesfield mailed the letter from a prison in North Carolina.. The victim of the threatening letter was the same woman Theesfield had attempted to kidnap in December  of 2020.

(Paxton–jc) The Paxton Park District Board is very busy helping with Spring and Summer activities, the pool and more. The board is short by a couple of numbers and they continue to look for a full time replacement for the Park District Director position. President Craig Kief says that process was completed last night with finding a new Paxton Park District Director

 They named Gillian Littleton as the recreation director during Tuesday’s meeting. The park board also appointed Carlos Colon and Dominic Brackenhoff to fill commissioner vacancies and elected Craig Kief as the board’s president and Mark Fredricksen as vice president after accepting the resignation of Matt Quinlan as commissioner.

(Vermilion County-jm) – It was nearly four years ago, August of 2022, that some vandalism at property just north of Danville near East Winter Street caused the escape of numerous emus, and provoked several weeks of sightings as they were gradually found. This time, due to the heavy rains and flooding of Saturday night to Sunday morning, over a half-dozen emus ended up getting away after flooding damaged a fence and barn area. Vermilion County Animal Control says that seven or eight are still reported to be roaming around the area, with one having been recaptured. Animal Control advises everyone to not approach or try to handle an emu if they are in your yard.  However, if you can contain them in your yard by closing all gates and entrances, please do so and report the emu immediately. You can report a located emu by going on Facebook, as the owners are following all Facebook postings; or calling Vermilion County Animal Control at 217-431-2660, extension 3.

(The Center Square) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul says his office has been shorted about $10 million from its overall state budget appropriation in 2026.

Raoul said during a City Club of Chicago event Tuesday that funding remained flat in budget legislation for fiscal year 2027 early Monday June First.

Raoul said his office received a $5 million increase in general funds but an overall $10 million decrease in the new budget.

(Buckley–jc)  Buckley Fun Day is coming on Saturday June 20th in the southern Iroquois Town. The day starts with a St Johns Ladies Aid Bake sale at 9, along with a fishing derby, tractor show, food stand and Official Duck race. Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster says it's a low cost way to spend a day with family and friends…

Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster 

(The Center Square) – The sponsor of a new plan to keep the Chicago Bears in Illinois says his proposal will prevent local taxing bodies from getting stadium development money off the backs of taxpayers. State Rep. Dan Ugaste, R-Geneva, is drafting a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes bill he hopes to file by the end of this week or early next week. Ugaste told The Center Square that the bill language will prevent a stadium development’s equalized assessed value from leading to higher property taxes for residents.

(Springfield-jm) – Over his 7 and a half years in office, Governor J-B Pritzker has largely gotten his way in the Democratic-supermajority Illinois General Assembly. As he campaigns for a third term and weighs a possible 2028 Democratic presidential bid, Pritzker emerged from the spring legislative session once again achieving many but not all the goals he laid out in his State of the State Address in February. The governor was unable to muscle through the most far reaching elements of his top legislative initiative: Building Up Illinois Developments, a comprehensive plan to spur homebuilding and drive down housing costs. And he didn’t land the plane on a long-sought megaprojects bill that would have enabled the Chicago Bears to negotiate and lock in lower property tax payments on a stadium in Arlington Heights. Lawmakers also failed to approve a pause Pritzker sought in the state’s data center tax credit, leading the governor to take executive action to freeze the program. Lawmakers also rejected Pritzker’s proposal to reduce the percentage of income taxes local governments receive from the Local Government Distributive Fund.  

(Springfield–jc) It was in the early morning hours of June First when Illinois lawmakers passed the biggest budget in the history of Illinois, a budget of nearly 57 Billion dollars. That included over 800 million dollars more in new taxes to help balance the budget. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington says that democrats continue to raise taxes and fees and that is not in the best interest of Illinosians…

106th district State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker is expected to sign the budget before the new fiscal year starts on July First.

(Rantoul-jm) – It was hot cars on a hot day as the 2026 Hot Rod Power Tour rolled into Rantoul. An estimated 7,000 people were expected to attend. Cars from all over the nation participated. Today, the Hot Rod Power Tour moves on to St. Louis. 

(Springfield–jc)  Five days after the state Senate released its calendar for fall veto session, the Illinois House has matched the schedule.

Both chambers are scheduled to meet in Springfield on Nov. 17-19 and Dec. 1-3.

(Paxton–jc)  Approaching the middle of June means plans are underway in various local communities to celebrate the 4th of July. This is the 250th year celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In Paxton, the local chamber and Paxton Mainstreet are planning this year’s “Old Fashioned 4th of July” celebration, says Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Urbana–jc)--Two Champaign residents arrested for alleged involvement in a large fight this past Friday in Urbana appeared in court on Monday and Tuesday. . Police arrested 33-year-old Jessica Morris and 42-year-old Anthony Teat. Morris is due back in court today and Teat has a July 2 next appearance. 

(Washington–jc)  The Spring planting season is almost complete for this year. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at the final spring corn planting report…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad rippey

(Springfield–jc) Illinois State Fair admission vouchers are now available for visitors to the Illinois State Museum’s new Route 66 exhibit in Springfield this summer. In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Route 66, each exhibit visitor is eligible to receive a voucher for one adult weekday admission to the fair, which runs from Aug. 13 to 23. The promotion started on Monday and runs for 66 days.

(Springfield–jc) A new report says Illinois ranks 17th in home insurance rates nationwide, with premiums up 68% since 2020.

LendingTree's 2026 State of Home Insurance Report said Illinois homeowners pay $2,731 annually, 14% above the national average of $2,395.

The General Assembly recently passed House Bill 4273 to regulate property insurance.

WPXN News notes…

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 12th with Candy Foster and Shades of Blue performing downtown from 6-9pm .

The 2026 Mahomet Soda Fest will take place on Saturday, June 13th from 10-6.

The 100th annual Ford County Fair will take place June 13th-20th at the fairgrounds in Melvin. On the 13th its Clay Walker with Walker Montgomery at 7:30pm. On the 14th its the Jackpot Breeding Gilt Show. On the 15th, its the Queen Pageant at 7. On the 16th its Family night, children's tractor pull and talent show at 7. On the 17th and 18th its the Illiana truck and tractor pulls at 6:30. On the 19th its Journey Tribute Band Resurrection at 7:30. On the 20th its the Demolition Derby at 6:30pm.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry on Friday, June 26th from 4:30-7pm at the Legion Building at Durham Park.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, June 27th from 9-2.

(Undated-jm) – Drivers across not just Central Illinois but across the nation are starting to see some relief at the gas pump as oil prices continue to fall and refineries start to increase output. GasBuddy reports a third consecutive week of falling gas prices. The average in Illinois is $4.41, down 21 cents in the last week and 62 cents below the $5.03 average the state saw three weeks ago. GasBuddy’s Patrick DeHaan says drivers may be enjoying the savings for now but cautions the risk of a significant reversal have not gone away.

(Rantoul–jm) – More than 6,000 classic cars and hot rods will be in Rantoul today as the Hot Rod Power Tour returns to the area. Rantoul is the second stop on the five day tour. The tour started yesterday in Joliet enroute to Tulsa, Oklahoma. The world’s largest traveling car show will be out at the former Chanute Air Force Base from 11-5. The event is free and open to the public.

(Watseka–dm)-106th District State Representative Republican Jason Bunting along with 53rd District State Senator Republican Chris Balkema and the Iroquois County Health  Department is hosting a Community Health Fair this Wednesday June 10th in Watseka.  State Representative Jason Bunting has the details

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting

(Gilman-jm) – Officials in Gilman are notifying residents that fire hydrants are being flushed this week. Residents may experience discolored water and a brief loss of pressure. Flushing will be completed by Friday.

(Champaign-jm) — The Champaign Police Department is investigating a shots fired incident that happened last month and now they are asking for help through CrimeStoppers in finding suspects. On May 24th, officers responded to a report of gunfire near Grove and Fifth Streets around 7:50pm. There they found evidence shots had been fired. The initial investigation indicated that there was a large gathering of people and subjects had exchanged gunfire. No one was reported to have been shot. Anyone with information is asked to call Champaign Police or CrimeStoppers.

(Melvin–dm)-The Ford County Fair opens up this Saturday June 13th with concerts featuring Clay Walker and Walker Montgomery.  Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins tells us if you buy your concert tickets early, you’ll save some money.

Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins

(Paxton–dm)-The Paxton Buckley Loda School Board will hold their regular scheduled Meeting on Wednesday June 10th.  Items to be discussed include an update on summer maintenance projects, taking  action on 2026-2027 Student Handbooks, Faculty Handbook, the athletic Code of Conduct manual and the Extr-curricular Handbook.  Also up for discussion is seeking proposals for 2026-2027 Waste Services. Discussion on an agreement between the school board and Employment System #330 regarding Health Insurance and consideration on Gibson Area Hospital and Health Services Sports Medicine.The meeting is scheduled to start at 6pm at the PBL Junior High Commons area 

(Champaign–dm)-The Champaign Police Dept invites you to join them for coffee and conversation this Wednesday at Royal Donut in Champaign.  Champaign Police Dept.Public Information Officer Joe Lamberson has the details

Champaign Police Dept. Public Information Officer Joe Lamberson

(Will County–jc)   The Illinois Department of Corrections has announced plans to relocate Logan Correctional Center to Stateville in Will County, where I-DOC is planning to build two new facilities. State officials said they are seeking a progressive design build entity for the new Stateville project, which in 2024 had an estimated cost as high as 900 million dollars.

(Springfield-jm) — Illinois lawmakers gave hospitals and community health centers much of what they wanted this session by passing a bill that prohibits drug manufacturers from interfering with their access to discounted medications through a federal drug pricing program. But they also gave drug companies what they wanted by passing another piece of legislation that calls on the Illinois Department of Insurance to conduct an audit to find out how much money these hospitals and clinics are making off that program, and what they are doing with the profits. Both bills focus on the federal 340B drug pricing program. According to analysis by KFF, a nonprofit health policy research, polling and news organization, the 340B program has mushroomed in size in recent years, growing from $2.4 billion to $66.3 billion. That growth has resulted in heightened tensions between hospitals and clinics on one side and the pharmaceutical industry on the other, with each accusing the other of abusing or manipulating the program. The battle in Illinois over the 340B program began last year with legislation that passed in the Senate that prohibited drug companies from interfering with the hospitals and clinics ability to dispense the drugs through contract pharmacies. But amid strong opposition in the House it was not called for a vote. It took an inclusion bill creating greater transparency to bring the bill over the finish line this session.

(USDA–dm)-Children going to summer camp for the first time may be anxious to be away from their parents, but there are methods to help them adapt.Rod Bain has the story.

(Champaign-jm) – A new Veterans Affairs clinic has opened its doors in Champaign. The clinic is located at 1702 South Mattis Avenue. The new clinic will offer primary care and specialty services. 

(Iroquois County-jm) – Iroquois County Clerk Breein Suver has announced she is looking for Republican and Democratic Election Judges to be commissioned for a 2 year term. Judges would work in their polling place on Election Day and are responsible for opening and closing the polling place, ensuring all votes are cast in secret, offering assistance and maintaining order in the polling place. Election judges who attend training are paid $185 per day, plus an additional $15 for attending training. Those interested are asked to call the county clerk's office at 815-432-6960.

(The Center Square) – A Republican state representative announced he will be releasing his own framework that will take a crack at solving the ongoing issues that might be pushing the Chicago Bears in Indiana’s direction.

State Representative. Dan Ugaste, Republican from  St. Charles announced  he will be introducing his own legislation this morning at 10 to keep the team in the state. The news comes just a week after lawmakers failed to send a bill to the governor’s desk on the matter. The measure would also provide property tax relief for residents and businesses statewide.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Park district pool is open for the season, but baseball and softball numbers are huge again this year. The Paxton Park district has over 2 hundred kids involved in the various levels of local competition says Paxton Park District Interim President Craig Kief…

Paxton Park District Interim President Craig Kief

(Champaign County–jc)  Interstate 72 west of Champaign is open again this morning after a semi crash last night around 7 near Monticello. State police say a semi lost control in a construction zone causing traffic issues. No word on any injuries or property damage was given. The road was re opened around 9 last night.

(The Center Square) – An Illinois state senator says wages for direct support professionals who provide services for people with developmental disabilities and serious mental illnesses lag behind where they were when Gov. J.B. Pritzker took office. Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, asked Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Elgie Sims, D-Chicago, if anything was added to the governor’s budget proposal for workers who provide disability services. Before the General Assembly passed a record-high $55.9 billion budget on June 1 for fiscal year 2027, Rose said another $24 million would return DSP workers to 150% of minimum wage, where they were in 2019. 

WPXN News notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, June 12th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 12th with Candy Foster and Shades of Blue performing downtown from 6-9pm .

The 2026 Mahomet Soda Fest will take place on Saturday, June 13th from 10-6.

Ford County ROSC and the Ford/Iroquois Farm Bureau  will host a free rural mental health training on Tuesday, June 16th from 4-6 pm at the Kruse Center in Gibson City.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on Thursday, June 18th from 11:30-5:30.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 19th with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

The Buckley Fire Department will hold a pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturday, June 20th from 6-10 am at the Buckley Fire Station.