(Springfield-jm) – Illinois lawmakers approved a measure that would allow rideshare drivers to unionize and negotiate with companies like Uber and Lyft. Under the proposal, drivers will be able to form and join organizations to represent them in negotiations over pay and working conditions. The bill also requires companies to pay a fee on each trip originating in Illinois.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois could soon reform the state’s regulations on delinquent property tax sales after the General Assembly approved a bill that lets homeowners keep their equity. The key change is if a homeowner fails to pay their debt in an initial redemption period, and their property is seized and sold, they will receive any surplus funds left over from the auction. Illinois is the last state to come into compliance with a 2023 Supreme Court ruling that determined the sale process violated citizens’ rights to fair compensation for government seizure of property and ruled any surplus funds from the property sale must be returned to the owner.

(Springfield–jc)  One area state leader wants the state to abolish the Illinois Estate Tax or “death” tax that has big implications on farmers and their families. Dean Abbott reports…

(Rantoul-jm) – The Rantoul bus driver accused of sexually assaulting a minor has been denied pretrial release. Johnnie McClendon Junior made an appearance in Champaign County court for arraignment and detention. He was charged with a single count of predatory criminal sexual assault against a minor. If convicted he would receive a mandatory prison sentence. The judge denied pretrial release.. He’s due back in court on June 25th.

(Springfield–jc)  –The Citizens Utility Board says it has identified at least $54 million worth of overcharges in Illinois American Water's proposed $142.4 million rate increase.  When requesting approval of the hike from the Illinois Commerce Commission earlier this year, the water utility estimated that the typical residential customer would pay about $14 more per month and typical wastewater customers would pay an extra $28 per month.

(Rantoul–jc)  Just before 11 Tuesday morning, Rantoul Police Officers were dispatched to the 600 block of Saint. Andrews Circle drive in the village, for a caller stating he had been shot. METCAD dispatch also advised they received additional calls of people shooting as well as Raven Gunshot Detection alerts in the vicinity. Officers arrived on scene and located one male victim who had sustained a gunshot wound. Officers immediately began administering first aid until they were relieved by paramedics. The victim was subsequently transported to Carle Hospital with what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries.  Rantoul police did pursue an arrest warrant to a home in the village on Tuesday.  Rantoul police are continuing to investigate this incident. If you have any information on this crime, please contact the Rantoul Police Department 217 892-2103, or CrimeStoppers 217 373-TIPS.

(Paxton–jc) Regulating E-Bikes and scooters continues to be a subject for city of Paxton leaders. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the council has ideas on how to proceed, but the city is waiting on some state decisions concerning e-bikes…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold.. WPXN News will have more on the subject on our Wednesday and Thursday 

(Cullom–jc)  Tri Point school leaders will be looking at building upgrades and options when their school board meets as a committee on Thursday.  At the meeting, school leaders and the board will look at expectations for school buildings including the Kempton building. That committee meeting comes to order at 5, Thursday afternoon at the Tri-Point Board room in Kempton

(Gibson City–jc)  One Ford County town is set to celebrate the nation’s 250 anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Gibson City will celebrate on Saturday July 11th says Gibson City event Spokesperson Susie Tongate…

Gibson City Event Spokesperson Susie Tongate. The day will feature a patriotic parade, a ribbon cutting for the Social Lott District,  games for kids and adults, live music and lots of food options. 

(The Center Square) – Included in the recently passed state budget, the Illinois State Board of Education will get money for property tax relief. Statehouse Republicans called for the relief program to be funded after the funds were not included in the budget for the current year. In the final hours of talks regarding Illinois’ record $55.9 billion spending plan for the 2027 fiscal year, lawmakers noted that the budget included $45 million for ISBE’s Property Tax Relief Grant program. As a Senate Democrat Leader on Appropriations, Sen. Elgie Sims Jr., D-Chicago, said the $45 million allocation for the coming year is because the state was able to complete a study on the effectiveness of the program.

(Washington–jc) The corn crop continues to emerge locally around the state and Nation. U-S-D-A meteorologist Brad Rippey takes a look at the  U.S. corn crop…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Springfield-jm) – Bills expanding privacy for abortion medical records and access to birth control services passed in the final days of the General Assembly’s spring session. The first measure would create the Reproductive Health Privacy Act and would require the separation of information about abortion services or diagnosis of gender dysphoria from a patient’s digital medical record if a patient chooses. Access to those records would be restricted for out of state entities. Lawmakers also passed a bill that expands access to birth control for minors, allowing them to consent to birth control without additional consent from a parent or guardian. 

(Northern Illinois–jc)  The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois has issued a report he said confirms what he already stated publicly in response to intense press interest and inquiries. Andrew Boutros said in a statement that he has never appeared before any grand jury hearing or deliberating evidence on any matter since becoming U.S. Attorney in April 2025.  Last month, Boutros said the dismissal of charges against anti-immigration law enforcement protesters in Broadview came after “certain conduct” by the government in the grand jury.

(Springfield-jm) — A bill heading to Governor J-B Pritzkers desk could improve access to suicide prevention services. Sponsors say 988 information should be visible in county shelter care homes, daycares, public libraries, hospitals and nursing homes. 

(Springfield–jc)  After voting no on next year’s budget early Monday morning, 104th District  State Representative Brandun Schweizer, Republican from Danville, says while Democrats continue their tax more  and spend more cycle,  the democrats did not help  in providing affordability for working Illinois families…

104th District State Representative Brandun Schweizer, Republican from Danville

Schweizer added that since taking office, Illinois Democrat Governor J-B Pritzker has increased state spending by 40 percent and enacted 57 tax and fee increases

(Urbana-jm) – A man is facing charges after being accused of raping a woman in Urbana. Johnathan Fuller Junior was charged with four counts of criminal sexual assault. Fuller allegedly pushed the victim in her own apartment on May 29th and sexually assaulted her.. He was denied pretrial release.

(Iroquois County-jm) – Three bridges crossing I-57 in Iroquois County will be partially or fully closed to traffic starting today as part of a larger construction project on the highway. The bridges affected include East 200 North Road near Loda, East 400 North Road near the northbound Main Line Rest Area and East 700 North Road south of Buckley. The 200 North Road bridge will have one lane of traffic maintained while the other two will be fully closed. Work on the bridges are expected to be completed by August.

(Paxton–jc)  –  The second in the series of First Friday night concerts is set for this Friday night in downtown Paxton. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says a Chicago based band called…”Back in Time” is coming back to Veteran’s Square…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper. The concessions stand opens at 6pm with the free concert at 7pm in downtown Paxton 

(Savoy–jc)  The Advocates for Aging Care in Champaign County is encouraging the public to attend a public hearing next Tuesday in Savoy. The local group has applied for a license for 120 skilled nursing beds to be placed in the county. Currently, Champaign County is short more than 300 skilled nursing beds. The hearing takes place at 1pm, Tuesday June 9th in the Village of Savoy Municipal Board room

(Rantoul–jc)  Community Development Block grant funds will help some projects in the village of Rantoul including some houses and streets. Village Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says the earned grant dollars continue to help in upgrades…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(The Center Square) – Illinois is still waiting to benefit from a law promised to generate hundreds of millions of dollars by restricting credit and debit card swipe fees. U.S. District Court Judge Virginia Kendall ruled that a federal order issued in April effectively blocks the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act that was signed into law in 2024. Hours before the ruling, state lawmakers voted to delay implementation of the fee until July First  20-27. Rob Karr, president and CEO of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, said IRMA proposed the law that would generate $200 million annually and help the state address a budget shortfall.

(Washington–jc) The soybean crop continues to emerge locally around the state and Nation. U-S-D-A meteorologist Brad Rippey takes a look at soybeans…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Chaampaign–jc)  – The Champaign Fire Department responded to a fire in a single-family home in the 400 block of South Russell Street just before midnight last night Fire crews were able to quickly extinguish the fire. No one was hurt in the fire.

WPXN News notes…

The Gibson Area Chamber of Commerce annual fish fry will take place on Thursday, June 4th from 5-7 pm at the North Park Pavilion in Gibson City. Cost is $5.

Paxton townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 5th and Saturday, June 6th.

The village of Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 5th with Aces N’ Rhythms in downtown Rantoul.

The 2026 Roberts Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 6th. Activities include breakfast from 8-11, vendors from 8-3, bounce houses and silent auction 9-3, kids cart rides 11-1, bingo 11-2, food trucks 11-3, bags tournament at 4 and live music from 7-10.

Logan Kirby will perform at the Melvin Community Hall on Saturday, June 6th at 7pm. Cost is $10. 

Champaign Firefighters Local 1260 will hold a 5k on Sunday, June 7th from 8-10:30 at Carle at the Fields.

(Rantoul-jm) – One person has died after suffering a medical emergency at the Hap Parker Family Aquatic Center in Rantoul yesterday.  Emergency personnel  were called to the pool at 4pm on Monday. They arrived in around 3 minutes at the facility, where life guards were already performing C-P-R.  The individual was transported to the hospital, where they later died. The name of the individual has not yet been officially released by the Champaign County coroner's office. WPXN news will update this story as more information becomes available

(Springfield–jc)-- Illinois House Democrats finalized passing legislation to allow undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition at public universities.  88th District  State Representative Regan Deering, Republican from Decatur ,voted against the measure…

88th District State Representative Regan Deering Republican from Decatur. Those voting no said the state is giving benefits to those illegally here in the state. The governor is expected to sign the measure into law. 

(Springfield-jm) – The Chicago Bears are sticking with their current timeline for selecting a site for a new stadium amid an uncertain future for a proposal in the Illinois state legislature that would provide incentives for the NFL team to build its new home in the state. The Illinois Senate passed a bill early Monday morning that would have cleared the way for Arlington Heights and Chicago to create local stadium authorities, creating a pathway for the Bears to avoid paying property taxes on a new stadium in Illinois. But the House adjourned without taking up the measure on the last day of the state's spring legislative session. The Bears said they are finalizing their evaluation of possible stadium sites in Arlington Heights and Hammond, Indiana, and they “remain on the late spring/early summer timeline.”

(Melvin–jc) As the United States looks to celebrate the 250th anniversary with the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Ford County is celebrating 100 years of the local county fair this month. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is now involved in a Champaign shooting investigation in the hopes of finding new information to pass along to police. The shooting happened the morning of May 6 on Redwood Drive near Bradley Avenue. Officers responded to a report of a shooting with injuries, and they found a 27-year-old man with gunshot wounds. Crime Stoppers said the victim is still recovering from his injuries. Investigators are still trying to identify the potential suspect involved in this confrontation. He was described as a Black male with a thin build who was wearing a mask and all-black clothing.

(Champaign–dm)-The planting season in Champaign County is running above average, while statewide planting progress is at average to above average.  Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady has the update. 

Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady

(Watseka–jc)  – The Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency announced today  that it has completed all requirements necessary to utilize the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System in the county. The county is now equipped to communicate critical emergency situations to all citizens in Iroquois County. The addition of the new warning system,  provides Iroquois County emergency personnel the ability to rapidly disseminate life-saving information during severe weather, and other emergencies.

(Ford County–dm)-The Ford County Highway Committee will meet on Wednesday June 3rd at the Highway Department in Roberts.  Items up for discussion include an update on County  Department work, and discussion on a county transportation agreement.  Also other items up on the agenda include petitions for aid and a resolution for Patton Drainage Project. The meeting is scheduled to start at 7AM.

(Springfield—jc)  Less than 24 hours after receiving the state budget document of over 3 thousand 600 pages, Democrat state lawmakers passed a nearly 57 Billion dollar state budget that includes over 800 million dollars in new taxes. Reaction to the budget from Illinois Republican Tony McCombie from Savannah…

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

(Springfield-jm) – Families across Illinois can access free meals and snacks this summer for children 18 and younger through federal nutrition programs administered by the Illinois State Board of Education. More than 1,000 meal sites across 72 counties are currently participating, with additional locations still being added throughout the summer. State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders said the program helps ensure children continue receiving healthy meals while school is out. Families can find nearby meal locations by using the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder online, texting “Summer” to 914-342-7744, or calling the USDA National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-3-HUNGRY.

(Champaign–jc)  –  Several special America 250 events are set in Champaign County starting later this month. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Nearly 69 million people in the United States speak a language other than English at home, yet weather warnings have long been issued almost exclusively in English. A new study documents how the National Weather Service is using artificial intelligence to change that, developing a comprehensive translation program that delivers life-saving forecasts and alerts in Spanish  and, Chinese, to French and other languages. The new multidisciplinary study was led by University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign  meteorology  professor Joseph Trujillo-Falcón and National Weather Service scientist Monica Bozeman.The study was published in the journal Artificial Intelligence for the Earth Systems.

(Springfield–jc)  More reaction coming in from local lawmakers about the nearly 57 Billion Dollar State of Illinois Budget for the coming fiscal year. 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet says Illinois taxpayers pay one thousand 700 more in taxes than those in neighboring states…

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, republican from Mahomet

(Paxton–jc)  Yes chickens or No Chickens, that is the question before a city of Paxton committee tonight. The city of Paxton License, Permit, Zoning and Insurance committee will look at the future of chickens on local properties when they meet at 6-30 tonight on the second floor of city hall 

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs thanked members of the General Assembly  for passing Senate Bill 29-68  in advancing legislation that expands investment opportunities for non-profit organizations across Illinois.

The legislation creates the Non-Profit Investment Pool, a safe and efficient investment option allowing eligible nonprofits to make the most of available funds while reducing administrative burdens. The measure is intended to help nonprofits strengthen their financial stability and maximize resources that support communities throughout the state.

WPXN News notes…

The 2026 Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour will stop in Rantoul on Tuesday, June 9th at 11 am.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the Onarga American Legion on Tuesday, June 9th from 1-6 pm.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Business After Hours on Thursday, June 11th from 5:30-7:30 pm at Promise Healthcare in Rantoul.

The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual golf outing on Friday, June 12th at Lakeview Country Club in Loda.

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 in downtown.

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

(Springfield–jc)  The vote was along party lines and the democrat majority in Springfield voted for a 56 Billion dollar plus budget that includes 800 Million dollars in new taxes.  51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet, voted NO…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, also voted NO…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

(Springfield-jm) – A bill looking to require schools to consider the use of mobile panic alert systems has passed both the House and Senate. The bill would require school districts and private schools to consider the use of a mobile panic alert system in the development of their school emergency and crisis response plans by the beginning of the 2028-2029 school year.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois House passed a bill Saturday night to ban schools from expelling students in Kindergarten through second grade. Sponsors said early exclusion from school can trigger a domino effect of negative interactions between schools and families. This bill also states schools cannot suspend Pre-K through second graders without the principal receiving written or verbal consent from the superintendent.  The measure now heads to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk for final consideration.

(Ford County-jm) – Roberts and Melvin firefighters were called to a two vehicle accident Friday evening. It happened at the intersection of 800 north and 700 east just before 8:30. One vehicle did roll over and an occupant was trapped. It’s unknown if there were any injuries.

(Springfield-jm) – A plan heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could expand youth civic engagement in honor of Rev. Jesse Jackson. The bill would ensure all high schools offer students of voting age the opportunity to register during the school day in a safe, accessible and nonpartisan environment.  Sponsors said this plan can help even more young people be prepared to vote. Senate Republicans argued the State Board of Elections already provides voter registration information to schools. 

(Paxton–jc)  City of Paxton leaders are looking at regulations concerning E-Bikes in the city. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the city has investigated possibilities, but is waiting on some current legislation at the state level in Springfield to see, how to proceed, locally…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Police Department is investigating multiple shootings that happened Sunday and are asking for the public’s help as information is limited. Officers became aware of the first incident early Sunday morning, when a 17-year-old male arrived via personal transport at a local hospital with a potentially life-threatening gunshot wound on his abdomen. The teenager told police he was walking in the 2000 block of Moreland Boulevard when he was shot. He remains at the hospital in stable condition at this time. Just hours later at 5:32 a.m., a second person, a 36-year-old man, walked into the same emergency department with a head injury. He initially said he was hurt because of a sports-related incident in the Garden Hills neighborhood, but medical personnel quickly discovered it was a gunshot wound. The victim didn’t share any more details on what happened, and he also remains in stable condition at the hospital.

(Ford/Iroquois)-It’s the time of year when planting season is wrapping up.  Ford/Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Kacie Clair gives us an update on progress being made in our area.

Ford/Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Kacie Clair

(Rantoul–jc)  A Rantoul man was arrested on allegations of predatory criminal sexual assault Thursday night. In a release from Rantoul police Friday afternoon, police say they arrested 35-year-old Johnnie C. McClendon Junior of Rantoul. Upon an investigation by the Rantoul Police Department. McClendon was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Champaign County Jail, where he is being held pending formal charges and court proceedings. McClendon is employed as a bus driver by First Student, Inc., which provides transportation services for the Rantoul City School District. At this time, investigators have received no allegations of misconduct related to his employment, and the investigation appears to involve matters unrelated to his position with the company. Due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, no additional information is being released at this time. The investigation continues. Any information about this case may be given to the Rantoul Police Department or Champaign County Crime Stoppers.

(Paxton–dm)-If you have bare spots in your yard and plan on planting grass seed, Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen tells us a good way to get new grass started in your yard

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

(Kankakee–jc)  –Daniela Hernadez-Patrevito a 2026 graduate of the registered nursing program at Kankakee Community College, has been awarded The DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nursing Students. The annual award is part of The DAISY Foundation's mission to express gratitude to nurses with programs that recognize them for the extraordinary, compassionate and skillful care they provide patients and families. Hernadez-Patrevito, a Momence resident now works at Riverside Healthcare in Kankakee.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could help address youth who are repeat gun offenders. Advocates say the intersection of mental health and juvenile gun crimes is a complex and pressing issue that must be addressed. The plan could require probation agencies to conduct an assessment of the minor's needs and identify restorative justice programs for high risk youth, cognitive behavioral therapy, family engagement and mentoring options.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Urbana Public Health District says six people from Champaign County are being monitored for Ebola symptoms after they recently returned from Central and East Africa. CUPHD says the six are being monitored but they are considered low risk and monitoring is not an indication that there is a danger to public health.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate passed the bipartisan plan to institute a statewide school cell phone ban Sunday. 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 IEPs, emergencies, student health or when the device is used for translation services. Schools will not be allowed to enforce cell phone bans through fines, fees or deployment of school resource officers and local law enforcement. The bill now goes to the governor.

(Melvin–jc)  The 2026 Miss Ford County Fair Queen pageant is coming soon. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

(Springfield-jm) — The Illinois House passed a bill Friday night to ban companies from manufacturing or selling cosmetic products containing forever chemicals. This ban would apply to PFAS found in makeup, hair and nail products, soaps, lotion, tanning products, perfume and cologne. Sponsors said Illinois should ensure beauty products are safe for everyone. House Bill 3409 passed out of the House on a 74-38 vote. It previously received unanimous support in the Senate. The measure now heads to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk for final approval.

(Springfield–jc)  The month of June will be Illinois Fallen Heroes month after legislation was passed this week in Springfield. 104th District State Representative Brandun Schweitzer, Republican from Danville, helped with the measure…

104th District State Representative Brandun Schweitzer, republican from Danville

(Urbana-jm) – A University of Illinois building was evacuated over the weekend following a chemical spill. Fire and Hazmat crews responded to Roger Adams Laboratory in response to a chemical spill. The incident was contained without incident.

(Rantoul–jc)  village leaders in Rantoul continue to provide the needed funds and studies involved with Prospect sub station for power on the west side of the village. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says the next study and needed supplies were approved by the board this month…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Paxton–jc)  –The Ford County Sheriff's Office has released its month of May report. During May, the Ford County Sheriff’s Office had just over 47 thousand dollars in income for the month including 23 thousand 528 in boarding fees. Sheriff’s police assisted 15 agency requests, 9 animal complaints, 4 suspicious vehicle reports, two thefts and 7 domestic issues. There was one death investigation in Ford County in May.

(Washington–jc)  The soybean crop continues in the planting and emerging stage around the area, state and nation. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey takes a quick look at this year’s crop…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Paxton–jc) Backyard chickens will be the topic of a city of Paxton committee on Tuesday. The committee of city council members will be looking at a proposed draft on keeping chickens on local property in Paxton. The meeting comes to order at 6-30 on Tuesday night on the second floor of city hall in downtown Paxton .

WPXN News notes…

The Gibson Area Chamber of Commerce annual fish fry will take place on Thursday, June 4th from 5-7 pm at the North Park Pavilion in Gibson City. Cost is $5.

Paxton townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 5th and Saturday, June 6th.

The village of Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 5th with Aces N’ Rhythms in downtown Rantoul.

Paxton Main Street will hold their First Friday concert on Friday, June 5th Back in Time performing at Veterans Square from 7-9 pm.

The 2026 Roberts Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 6th. Activities include breakfast from 8-11, vendors from 8-3, bounce houses and silent auction 9-3, kids cart rides 11-1, bingo 11-2, food trucks 11-3, bags tournament at 4 and live music from 7-10.

Logan Kirby will perform at the Melvin Community Hall on Saturday, June 6th at 7pm. Cost is $10.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill headed to the governor’s desk could change how auto insurance rates are regulated. Capitol News Illinois reports it would require auto insurance companies to give customers at least 30 days notice if their premium will increase by more than 10 percent. It would also give the Department of Insurance authority to determine whether a rate is excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory. 29th District State Representative Thaddeus Jones, Democrat from Calumet City,  says this about looking out for drivers across the state…

29th District State Representative Thaddeus Jones. Republicans argue this isn’t needed because the market is already working and it will cause rates to increase. Governor J–B Pritzker says he will sign the bill.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois has officially expanded its battery recycling program statewide under a new law. This law requires all household and medium-format batteries to be properly recycled and prohibits tossing batteries in the garbage, helping protect homes, communities and the environment from safety risks associated with improper disposal. This includes fires and chemical hazards.

(Champaign–jc)  A Tennessee man was due in court yesterday to face a reckless homicide charge in the death of a Vermilion  county man that happened in a construction zone along Interstate 74 in Champaign County early Wednesday morning. Former Tilton Police Chief Steve Cornett is being remembered after he was fatally struck by a vehicle on Wednesday morning while he was working as a construction contractor on the interstate. Cornett also served as a   firefighter and EMS provider. The Illinois Department of Transportation, state police and local authorities continue to  investigate the incident.  104th District State Representative Brandun Schweitzer, Republican from Danville says the House had a moment of silence on the floor yesterday…

104th district State Representative Brandun Schweitzer, Republican from Danville

(Gibson City-jm) — A McLean County man will now serve 3 years in prison for videotaping women and children in the bathroom of his former workplace last year at a Ford County business.  31-year-old Jared Clark of Colfax faced a dozen counts of unauthorized videotaping.  Clark entered a plea deal.

(Paxton–jc)  The city of Paxton Park District pool opened for the summer at noon yesterday afternoon. Park District Interim Board President Craig Kief says the pool will open at noon each day…

Paxton Park District Interim Board President Craig Kief

(Illinois–dm)-Ameren Illinois’ summer electric rate will take effect next month, raising rates for customers. Starting June 1, the rate will rise to 11 cents per kilowatt hour and remain in effect through September. The rate is lower than last summer, but is still up 29% from the current price of electricity. The Citizens Utility Board said the increase is deeply concerning, especially during the summer months. Ameren said the temporary increase will end in October. The supply price then will reset to a lower rate through May 31, 2027.

(Rantoul–jc) The village of Rantoul recognized International G-M-One disease over the Memorial Day holiday. The proclamation from Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the third, was part of the May village board meeting. Mayor Hall says the disease does not have a cure, and a family in the village is impacted by the disease…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Kankakee County-jm) - A man and woman in their 40s were arrested after a search warrant executed over the weekend discovered a dog-fighting ring as well as 18 dogs in Kankakee County. The Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office said 45-year-old Billy E. Walker and 43-year-old Yachia A. Austin were brought before a judge at the Kankakee County Courthouse in connection with this dog-fighting case. Walker is facing 22 felony counts, including 18 counts of dog fighting, two counts of animal torture and two counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. He was released after a Kankakee County Judge denied the State’s petition to detain. Austin is facing two counts of aggravated fleeing/eluding and a charge of manufacturing/ delivery of 400-grams of fentanyl. She was detained on the State’s petition pending a trial and remains incarcerated at the Jerome Combs Detention Center.

(Springfield–jc) It’s crunch time to get a balanced budget completed on time in the state of Illinois. Legislative leaders have until Sunday night to pass a budget on-time. Reaction on the process from 104th district State Representative Brandum Schweitzer, republican from Danville…

104th District State Representative Brandun Schweitzer, Republican from Danville

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois House unanimously passed a bill to ban insurance companies from automatically coding a health service lower than what is actually provided to patients. The plan states all downcoding determinations must be made or reviewed by a real person and insurance companies would be required to notify doctors if a service is downcoded. The bill also bans insurers from downcoding in a discriminatory manner against doctors who routinely treat patients with complex health conditions. Insurance companies would also be required to provide health care professionals a clear process to dispute downcoded claims within 90 days.

(CHicago–jc)The Illinois Supreme Court has announced a rule amendment allowing newly-admitted attorneys to earn Minimum Continuing Legal Education credit by participating in a pro bono pilot program. The court said in a press release it hopes to address unmet legal needs and help foster a career-long commitment for new attorneys to pro bono service.Under the program, an attorney may earn one MCLE credit hour for every two hours of pro bono participation in Illinois Free Legal Answers.

(Springfield–dm)-Earlier this week, the Illinois House approved Senate Bill 3336 which would establish regulations on “micromobility” transportation such as e-bikes and e-scooters that include age requirements, speed limits and rules on where they can be operated. Most House Republicans opposed the measure following the attachment of an amendment to include driving under the influence penalties, but only if the bike operator was traveling faster than 28 mph.

House Republican Leader Tony McCombie more broadly opposed the bill.

House Republican Leader Tony McCombie

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton residents are being urged to watch their mail if they want to opt out of an electric aggregation program. Homefield Energy is the city’s alternative retail electric supplier. Those who don’t want to use Homefield Energy have until June 8th otherwise they will be automatically enrolled into the program for one year. The program kicks in starting in July locking in a fixed rate of 11.89 

cents per kilowatt hour.

(USDA–dm)-Months of consistent weather patterns over parts of the country have now flipped in the opposite way, which means what for ag in those areas? USDA’s Rod Bain has the story

(Springfield-jm) – A bill heading to Governor JB Pritzker's desk could help improve the state’s recent digital driver’s license law. The plan could align technology and requirements related to mobile IDs and ensure consistency as the digital drivers licenses are more widely used. The proposal also bans law enforcement from physically taking someone’s phone to verify their mobile ID.

(Paxton–jc)  City of Paxton officials are dealing with one distressed property along Pine Street in town. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says they are looking at options in dealing with that property…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Paxton-jm) - A mainstay at The Frederick Community Bank in Paxton retired yesterday. Linda Roy retired after 50 years at the bank. A reception was held at the bank to celebrate her incredible milestone.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Mainstreet First Friday concert for June 5th is coming soon. The second in the series of first Friday of the month’s free concert will be June 5th at Veteran’s Square in Paxton featuring the band “Back in Time.” says Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper. The concession stand opens at 6pm and the concert starts at 7.

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois hunters harvested a preliminary record total of 20,821 wild turkeys during the 2026 spring turkey season, surpassing the previous record of just over 18 thousand birds harvested last year The top counties for turkey harvest this spring were Jefferson and Jo Daviess counties. Closer to home 43 turkeys were harvested in Champaign County, 27 in Ford County. 137 Turkeys were harvested in Vermilion County and 95 in Iroquois County. 

WPXN News notes…

Country Line Dancing with DJ Maggie B will take place on Friday, May 29th from 8-11 pm at The Cadillac in downtown Paxton.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, May 30th from 9-2.

Paxton Townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 5th and Saturday, June 6th.

Paxton Main Street will hold their First Friday concert series on Friday, June 5th from 7-9 pm at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton. Back In Time will perform.

The 2026 Roberts Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 6th. Activities include breakfast from 8-11, vendors from 8-3, bounce houses and silent auction 9-3, kids cart rides 11-1, bingo 11-2, food trucks 11-3, bags tournament at 4 and live music from 7-10.

Champaign Firefighters Local 1260 will hold a 5k on Sunday, June 7th from 8-10:30 at Carle at the Fields.

The 2026 Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour will stop in Rantoul on Tuesday, June 9th at 11 am.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the Onarga American Legion on Tuesday, June 9th from 1-6 pm.

(Springfield-jm) – Former Republican strategist Collin Corbett says he is hoping to bring a more balanced voice to the Illinois governor’s race after filing petitions to run for governor as an independent. Corbett, of Palatine, is the founder of the political consulting firm Cor Strategies, which has helped Republican candidates run for office. He left the firm following the primary after expressing concerns the party supports violent immigration raids and no longer welcomes opposing opinions. Corbett says he’s looking for more balance from the state’s leaders and criticized both President Donald Trump and Governor J-B Pritzker. 

(Springfield-jm) — As he closed his address before gathered members of the Illinois General Assembly and Governor J-B Pritzker in the Illinois Capitol on Wednesday, U-S Senator Dick Durbin invoked the words of Abraham Lincoln's House Divided speech. Durbin delivered what was billed as a farewell address, reflecting on his record in office while urging state lawmakers gathered to pick up the torch for the causes he championed. Durbin will retire next year after 30 years in the Senate, most of it spent as the number two Democrat.

(Springfield–jc) State lawmakers remain in Springfield this week, trying to reach a new budget deal by Sunday. Not much has been given out to lawmakers from the Budget office and one area lawmaker says there has been “no transparency” with the process. Reaction from 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet…

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet

(Dewey-jm) — Fisher firefighters were called to a house fire in Dewey Wednesday afternoon. It happened just before 4pm. Crews from multiple departments put out the fire. There’s no word on the cause of the fire.

(Ford County-jm) – Beginning in July, the Gibson City Senior Center will no longer be serving Peace Meals for seniors. OSF Peace Meals are meant to help seniors improve nutrition, while also encouraging independence and fellowship. Currently, OSF HealthCare provides meals five days a week for seniors age 60 and older, who live in Champaign, DeWitt, Ford, Iroquois, McLean, Piatt and Livingston counties. The Ford County Public Health Department says that the center, where meals are distributed, is being sold. After the sale, OSF will no longer serve Peace Meals at that location. OSF is searching for a new location. In the meantime, seniors can request home delivery by calling (309) 665-5900. 

(Rantoul–jc)  It’s Midwest Championship baseball and Midwest Championship Softball set for this weekend at the Rantoul Sports Complex on the village's west side. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says the number of teams, coaches, family members and fans continues to grow at the local sports facility, each year…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Rantoul-jc)  –Freedom Fridays are coming to downtown Rantoul in July. Rantoul Chamber officials say each Friday there will be activities for kids and adults, lots of food options, drinks and good music. The first event is Friday July 3rd in the downtown area of the village

(Urbana–jc)  The Champaign County Coroner’s Office has identified the road crew member who was struck by a vehicle early Wednesday morning along Interstate 74 near the 180-mile marker in Champaign. 65 year oldSteven A. Cornett, of Danville, was pronounced dead just before 5 this morning at the scene. Preliminary findings indicate Mr. Cornett died from blunt force injuries sustained after being struck by a vehicle while working on the roadway. An autopsy has been scheduled.  The incident remains under investigation by the Illinois State Police and the Champaign County Coroner’s Office.

(Gibson City–jc)  Gibson City leaders and the local Gibson City Chamber of Commerce are hosting a “thank you” event for those who shop in the city. The annual  Gibson City “community fish fry” is set for Thursday June 4th at North Park in the city. The event runs from 5pm to 7-30pm says Gibson City Events Spokesperson Susie Tongate…

Gibson City Events Spokesperson Susie Tongate. The Gibson City Community Band will also perform at the event next Thursday and will be selling baked goods as a fundraiser

(Springfield–jc)   – The Illinois Department of Labor has resolved multiple investigations involving alleged violations of the Paid Leave for All Workers Act, ensuring employees received access to paid leave benefits required under state law.

The investigations involved employers across Illinois in a variety of industries, including food service, hospitality, and home services. The Department investigated allegations  the I Hotel and Conference Center in Champaign did not give paid leave accruals to some part time employees. After reviewing the employer’s paid leave records, the Department found that employees were not accruing paid leave at the rate required by law. The hotel paid a 2 thousand 500 dollar penalty to the Department of Labor.

(Undated-jm) — Illinois grows more soybeans than any other state, harvesting more than 639 million bushels in 2025, well ahead of Iowa’s 595 million bushels and Minnesota’s 371 million bushels. But almost none of those millions of bushels end up as food on Illinois plates. According to the Illinois Soybean Association, 60 percent of soybeans grown in the state are exported, most of the remaining 40 percent are processed as animal feed, leaving the state reliant on imports for its soy food. In 2025, with a trade war freezing exports to China, one of the biggest buyers of Illinois soybeans, Governor J-B Pritzker declared an Agricultural Export Crisis and directed state agencies to enhance domestic markets. For farmers and food producers, the pressure has made the need for local infrastructure more urgent than ever, raising the question of whether more of Illinois’ own crops, especially soybeans, can finally start feeding more Illinoisans.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois lawmakers are days away from passing a roughly $56 billion fiscal 2027 budget, but many are still fighting to have their priorities included as negotiations near the end. Republicans want to reduce the size of the budget and lower taxes, while some Democrats are seeking more taxes on businesses and billionaires. Others are looking to maintain state programs, fearing future budget holes and social service cuts in the coming years. The budget became more complicated earlier this month when analysts for the General Assembly and governor's budget office lowered revenue projections for the upcoming fiscal year. The governor’s office revealed a $149 million gap between what Pritzker proposed spending and the amount of revenue the state will have to support it, and that includes $728 million in new taxes and revenue changes proposed by the Governor.

(Paxton–jc)  It’s opening today… The Paxton Park District Swimming pool opens at noon today and the entire board would like to thank the community for their help, says  Interim Paxton Park District President Craig Kief…

Paxton Park District Interim President Craig Kief

(Washington–jc)  The corn crop continues to emerge in East Central Illinois. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at the corn crop…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Champaign-jm) – The City of Champaign is considering a new blueprint plan to better manage its homeless population. Champaign's point-in-time survey shows the city saw a 159% increase in homelessness from 2022-25. Now the city hopes to develop a system to stop people from losing their homes and put safety nets in place so there is always a safe bed available for anyone without a home. The homelessness prevention blueprint team is recommending hundreds of thousands of dollars in additional funds to prevent people from losing their homes. The team hopes to start implementing their plan this summer.

(Rantoul-jm) – A mural to honor the Tuskegee Airmen is coming to Rantoul. A local non profit will be painting the World War Two pilots who got their start at Chanute Air Force Base on a building on the former base. The group hopes to have the mural done by the 4th of July.

(Paxton–jc) City of Paxton leaders have sold a city owned lot at 404 South Market in town. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says they received help in the process for a potential new home with a local realtor…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

Paxton–jc)  The Ford County Public Building Commission will talk about a proposed addition to the county’s courthouse later this week. The committee is set to meet at 2pm on Friday in Paxton. The commission is also expected to look at bids for a boiler project at the courthouse.

(Champaign–jc)  –The Champaign Fire Department is seeking candidates interested in learning more about a career in the fire service to apply to the Adult Explorers Program.  Applications will be accepted through June 22, and are available at the Champaign Fire Department website. The Champaign Fire Department Recruitment Team and Human Resources Department, along with the Champaign Equity and Engagement Department, are committed to providing program participants with job-specific, comprehensive, interactive, and informational testing preparation experience. 

(Rantoul–jc)  –The Rantoul Historical Society was chartered in 1973 and the local group has used several locations over the years for a museum of the local area. The museum is currently located along U S Route 136 on the east side of Rantoul. Rantoul Historical Society Spokesperson Jim Cheek talks about the operations of the local museum

Rantoul Historical Society and Museum Spokesperson Jim Cheek

(Champaign–jc)  The U.S. Department of Agriculture on Wednesday announced the availability of 65 million dollars  in funding this year for new tools, approaches, practices and technologies to further natural resource conservation on private lands through the Conservation Innovation Grants  program. CIG is supported by the Working Families Tax Cuts Act , which increased funding for farm bill conservation programs. The program also supports farmers in tackling conservation challenges at the landscape scale.

(Gibson City–jc)  The Gibson City Restoration Committee queen of hearts was held last night. The jack pot was 7 thousand 738 dollars. Joyce Dewey chose card number 49 which was the 4 of clubs. She received 40 dollars and the jack pot grows to next week. The money raised goes to building restoration projects in 

Gibson City.

WPXN NEws notes…

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, May 30th from 9-2.

Paxton Townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 5th and Saturday, June 6th.

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

Paxton Main Street will hold their First Friday concert series on Friday, June 5th from 7-9 pm at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton. Back In Time will perform.

The 2026 Roberts Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 6th. Activities include breakfast from 8-11, vendors from 8-3, bounce houses and silent auction 9-3, kids cart rides 11-1, bingo 11-2, food trucks 11-3, bags tournament at 4 and live music from 7-10.

Champaign Firefighters Local 1260 will hold a 5k on Sunday, June 7th from 8-10:30 at Carle at the Fields.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Capitol Complex is back to normal operations after the Secretary of State Police said a “suspicious device” was found in the parking lot Tuesday morning. In a statement to WCIA, Max Walczyk, the Communications Manager for Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, said that out of an abundance of caution, the Stratton Building and the nearby Illinois State Museum were both placed on lockdown. The Secretary of State Police ruled out any threats or hazards, and the Capitol Complex is now open. The Secretary of State Police will continue to investigate this matter.

(Champaign–jc)  A vehicle crash has caused traffic delays this morning along Interstate 74 in Champaign. Police say the accident happened in the 5am hour. Several lanes on I-74 remained blocked at this hour near mile marker 179. Emergency personnel are on scene and police say traffic will be backed up for several hours. 

(Springfield–jc)  Some in Springfield are stating that the budget proposal is out and ready to view, others say that just is not true. 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet, says he expects several amendments to appear by late Saturday, before any budget document is given to lawmakers…

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose Republican from Mahomet. Lawmakers have until Sunday to pass a balanced budget, on time

(The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker says megaprojects legislation is shaping up in the Illinois Senate. A reporter asked the governor on Friday if Chicago might remain an option for a Chicago Bears stadium if legislation to support the team's Arlington Heights development fails. Pritzker said the Bears and the National Football League both said there are only two options, Arlington Heights and Indiana. Americans for Prosperity Illinois estimated that the property tax break for the Bears’ $5 billion development in Arlington Heights could reach $330 million per year, all of which could be shifted to other taxpayers in surrounding communities.

(Urbana–jc)  The first installment of Champaign County Tax bills will be due in early June. A calculation mistake was made on property taxes for some taxpayers in Rantoul. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third talks about how to pay the taxes in a proper manner this year…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Champaign-jm) – For the third time in the last five weeks, an act of retail theft at Champaign’s Old Navy store is the Crime of the Week for Champaign County Crime Stoppers. Crime Stoppers requested the public’s help on April 20 and April 27 in finding the people responsible for the thefts, which happened on April 4 and one week later on April 11. This week, Crime Stoppers requested the public’s assistance in a third retail theft from Old Navy, which happened on April 19. In the April 19 theft, police say two women entered the store and grabbed a mesh bag. The women concealed numerous items inside the bag, stashed it near the front of the store and went to get their car. The stolen items were valued at a total of more than $800. The women were described as being Black, approximately 25 to 35 years old. Anyone with information on these crimes are asked to call Champaign County Crimestoppers.

(Ford County–dm)-If you own a property in Ford County and are age 65 or older, you might  qualify for the Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption. Ford County Supervisor of Assessments Pam Bruens explains.

Ford County Supervisor of Assessments Pam Bruens. All forms need to be turned in by August 5th

(Hoopeston-jm) - A Hoopeston man is facing multiple charges after an alleged break in. Police were called to the 400 block of Front Street for an armed individual trying to break into a residence. Officers located Michael Rossolillo. While attempting to arrest him, he allegedly threatened officers. He’s charged with criminal damage to property, attempted residential burglary, threatening a peace officer, unlawful use of a weapon with intent and unlawful use of a weapon with intent with a dangerous knife. He was taken to the Vermilion County Jail.

(Paxton-jc)  It’s summer shopping at its best in the city of Paxton. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says the Paxton Chamber and Paxton Mainstreet have worked hard to continue to grow businesses in the city, just in time for summer and beyond…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper. Paxton Mainstreet has its second Summer concert series event set for Friday June 5th at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton.

(SPringfield-jm) — Illinois Senate Democrats want to pass several new affordable housing plans before the session ends Sunday. One of the proposals could legalize a wider range of middle housing types such as duplexes, triplexes and four flats in lots currently zoned for single family use. Similar legislation could allow faith based organizations to develop affordable mixed use and multifamily homes on their property by exempting them from strict zoning requirements. A separate bill would ban housing authorities and private owners of subsidized housing from mandating work requirements or time limits on residents who do not meet work requirements. Another bill would give tenants the first right of refusal when their property is listed for sale or the owner receives and accepts an unsolicited third party offer. 

(Springfield–dm)-Illinois House Bill 5295 introduced by an Arlington Heights Democrat, creates the Reproductive Health Records Privacy Act. According to the sponsor, it is designed to protect sensitive patient medical information regarding abortion care from out-of-state entities and subpoenas. 88th District State Representative Regan Deering R.from Decatur voted against the measure in the House, saying the bill was one that didn't get nearly enough attention.

88th District State Representative Regan Deering Republican from Decatur

(Champaign–jc)  Illinois Governor  JB Pritzker was in Champaign on Tuesday to talk about the construction of an inclusive special recreation area that will serve people of all abilities. The project is funded with the help of a 600 thousand dollar  Open Space Land Acquisition and Development or OSLAD grant 

The Champaign-Urbana Special Recreation All Abilities Activity Hub will be an accessible outdoor space that prioritizes inclusion for people of all ages and abilities. The space will offer opportunities for educational and clinical therapies. Construction is set to begin this summer.

(Springfield-jm) - State lawmakers could pass a bill to create new regulations for cannabis and hemp.Under proposed changes, the state would ban gas stations, convenience stores and smoke shops from selling intoxicating hemp products however, they could be sold at licensed cannabis dispensaries. 

(Paxton–jc)  – The City of Paxton police department is getting a new squad car. The department added an additional officer and city leaders gave their go-ahead for the new purchase says Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

Legislation to prevent Illinois service members and their families from being academically penalized when military duty interrupts their higher education is headed to Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s desk. The Illinois House passed Senate Bill 3737 on Friday. A statement from Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s office said the legislation mirrors the federal SERVE Act enforced by the U.S. Department of Education.

(Melvin–jc)  The 20-26 Ford County Fair is coming and their are some favorite events and some new ones. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

(Springfield–jc)  –The General Assembly has passed a bill banning video transmission or recording in state courthouses of any person known to be a victim or witness without consent. The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office supported Senate Bill 4038 and said in a social media post that it helps protect domestic violence survivors and other vulnerable victims.

(OSF–dm)- May 29 is World Digestive Health Day. Here’s one way to help your gut – get moving. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has more. 

And...the doctor says to not ignore things...like persistent abdominal pain or major changes in bowel movements. Those could be a sign of something serious...like colon cancer.

Chicago – Attorney General Kwame Raoul Tuesday announced an $8.25 million settlement with Mylan Inc. (Mylan), the company that sells the EpiPen, resolving concerns about the company’s anticompetitive conduct related to EpiPen products. Mylan’s alleged anticompetitive scheme resulted in the state of Illinois paying excess amounts for EpiPens purchased through its Medicaid and employee health benefits programs.Most of the money recovered will be split be two state agencies.

WPXN News notes…

Champaign Firefighters Local 1260 will hold a 5k on Sunday, June 7th from 8-10:30 at Carle at the Fields.

The 2026 Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour will stop in Rantoul on Tuesday, June 9th at 11 am.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the Onarga American Legion on Tuesday, June 9th from 1-6 pm.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Business After Hours on Thursday, June 11th from 5:30-7:30 pm at Promise Healthcare in Rantoul.

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

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

(Springfield–jc)  – The Illinois State Board of Elections says today is the final day for candidates to file new party and independent nomination papers.

The board says all petitions must be filed by 5 p.m. Central time.

(The Center Square) – The appointment of Illinois Department of Human Services Secretary Dulce Quintero is drawing renewed criticism from Republican lawmakers and voter integrity advocates, who argue unresolved questions surrounding voter registration mailers should have received greater scrutiny before her confirmation.  Among the most outspoken critics is 54th District State Senator Steve McClure, Republican from Springfield,  who publicly opposed Quintero’s appointment and pointed to concerns regarding I-D-H-S mailings sent through public benefits programs. McClure says Quintero mailed state benefit forms and voter registration forms to non-citizens.  According to McClure, concerns surrounding the issue were not newly discovered during the confirmation process.

(Springfield–jc)  Some Republicans in Springfield are looking to put through laws helping families with the “high “ cost of daycare. 89th District State Representative Tony McCombie, Republican from Savannah says it is an issue for all families in the state…

89th District State Representative Tony McCombie, Republican from Savannah

(Rantoul–jc)  A Flag garden in Rantoul opened over the Memorial Day holiday. The designated area honors the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The Rantoul Exchange Club says the Memorial Flag Garden is located along Route 45 near the Rantoul Community Missile.  Exchange Club members say the  courage and service of those who gave their life for our country will never be forgotten. 

(Melvin–jc)  The Talent Show at the Ford County Fair is coming in June. Now is the time to enter. WPXN”s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Champaign County–jc)  After the Memorial Day holiday today, I-DOT road construction begins at a fast pace in the area and state. In Champaign County there will be ramp closures from North and Southbound traffic on Interstate 57 going east and west along Interstate 74. These closures are set to start on June Second.

A three week closure on Champaign County Road 100 East over I-74 starts on this morning. There are lane reductions near the I-57 interchange and U S Route 45. And construction remains active near Flatville and the Leverett road with only one lane of traffic open in both directions.  I-DOT officials remind the motoring public to take extra caution in road work zones and make it a Safe Summer 2026. 

(Rantoul–jc)  One of the area Memorial Day services was held at the Rantoul Sports Complex. At the 11am service Monday morning, Rantoul Village Administrator Scott Eisenhower talked about the meaning of Memorial Day…

Rantoul Village Administrator Scott Eisenhower. Dozens of similar Memorial Day programs were held yesterday around East Central Illinois, to remember all those who died in service for the freedoms we have in the United States. 

(Sibley–jc)  With the 250th year celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, some area towns and cities are planning for their 4th of July holiday events. In Sibley, The 4th of July sees a Fishing Derby to start the day's activities at 8am A car show starts at 9am with a vendor show at 10am, a parade at noon and kids games, softball, bingo and inflatables in the afternoon. Music with the group “Fairchilds” starts at 6-30pm and fireworks conclude the evening in Sibley at Dusk. 

(Springfield–jc)  The summer travel season is now “officially” underway. A new report says Illinois drivers are facing a higher risk of pothole damage on road trips.

Grigor Law Injury & Car Accident Lawyers sourced data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics and found that 80-point-4 percent of Illinois’ road network meets acceptable conditions. The Land of Lincoln ranked 20th on the study’s list of states with the worst roads, but Illinois fared better than the neighboring states of Missouri and Wisconsin. Indiana was found to have the best roads in the country.

(Chicago–jc)   The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago’s Manufacturing Activity Index increased to  plus 38 in May from a plus  26 in April. The non-manufacturing Activity Index decreased to minus 5 in May from plus 16 the previous month. The numbers suggest economic growth slowed but remained above trend in the state.

(Springfield–jc)  – One question before lawmakers in Springfield is voting rights of those serving jail sentences. 88th District State Representative, Republican Regan Deering of Decatur says she is not in favor of the legislation as written…

88th  District State Representative Regan Deering, Republican from Decatur

(Rantoul–jc)  –  If you are one who would like to pursue a career in law enforcement, one local police department has a testing opportunity coming in June. The Rantoul Police Department says testing dates for positions in the Rantoul police department are June 11th and June 13th. More information about the positions is available on line. 

(Paxton–jc)  City of Paxton leaders continue to meet with developers on a new subdivision project and new road in the city of Paxton. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says talks continue on how the potential area could look…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Springfield–jc)  –As boating season gets underway, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Illinois Conservation Police are urging people to wear life jackets when they are on the water and to only operate boats while sober. 

 The state  offers free boating safety courses that review boating laws and regulations, as well as instruction on the safe and attentive operation of watercraft.

(Rantoul–jc)  The speaker at Monday  morning’s Village of Rantoul Memorial Day Service was PrairieView Ogden Superintendent and former Rantoul High School Principal Todd Wilson. Wilson, from Thomasboro, talked about a poem that highlighted,  veterans…

Village of Rantoul Memorial Day  Service Speaker Todd Wilson.

Monday’s Rantoul service was held at the Rantoul Sports Complex.

WPXN News notes…

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, May 30th from 9-2.

Paxton Townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 5th and Saturday, June 6th.

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

Paxton Main Street will hold their First Friday concert series on Friday, June 5th from 7-9 pm at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton. Back In Time will perform.

The 2026 Roberts Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 6th. Activities include breakfast from 8-11, vendors from 8-3, bounce houses and silent auction 9-3, kids cart rides 11-1, bingo 11-2, food trucks 11-3, bags tournament at 4 and live music from 7-10.

Champaign Firefighters Local 1260 will hold a 5k on Sunday, June 7th from 8-10:30 at Carle at the Fields.

(Undated–jc)  It’s Memorial Day, and an almost perfect weather day is in store for the many Memorial Day services throughout the area. Memorial Day is the day to remember the ultimate sacrifice given by those protecting the freedoms we have. Make sure to attend a Memorial Day service today. 

(Springfield-jm) – A bill heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could establish forever chemical sampling and reporting requirements for water control permits, sludges and biosolids. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency notes PFAS have become widespread in air, water, soil and consumer products.  This plan would require the state to only issue permits to water treatment facilities if they periodically sample for forever chemicals.

(Springfield-jm) – As warm summer days approach and families gear up for the pool or trips to the beach, several Illinois agencies are teaming up to promote a life-saving strategy to keep children safe in or near the water. The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Safe Kids Illinois and Lurie Children's Hospital are teaming up to promote designating a water watcher. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4, and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 5-14. To help keep families safe, Illinois DCFS has created a printable water watcher tag that clearly identifies the adult responsible for supervising children during water activities, helping ensure that someone is always alert and watching them. In 2025, 24 Illinois children died in accidental drownings, including 12 in pools and eight in lakes, rivers or ponds. 50% of the children were age 5 and younger, including nine of the children who drowned in pools.

(Springfield–dm)-House Republican Conference Chair Jeff Keicher (R-Sycamore) outlined Illinois House Republicans' budget priorities as the May 31 deadline for the spring legislative session fast approaches. Instead of the prospect of more tax and fee increases, Keicher said the state needs to focus on fiscal reform and cutting wasteful spending.

House Republican Conference Chair Jeff Keicher (R-Sycamore)

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois House passed legislation Friday to ban companies from using AI software to generate individualized prices based on personal data. Sponsors said companies currently collect information on where people go, what they search for, what customers buy, how long you stay on a website and even the devices we use to shop. This information is fed into algorithms that can decide how much each person pays for the exact same product or service.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois House passed a plan to create a prescription drug affordability board to help lower drug costs. A prescription drug affordability board could evaluate high-cost drugs and set upper payment limits for what Illinois consumers pay. The board would be able to review prices for brand-name drugs, biosimilar medications and generic drugs that cause affordability challenges for patients.

(Paxton–dm)- The Paxton Living World Church is having a craft and vendor show today at the Paxton  Civic Center, located at 601S. Fall Street.  Craft and Vendor Show spokesperson Melanie Bauer has more information.

Craft and Vendor Show Spokesperson Melanie Bauer

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Fire Department was able to quickly put out a fire on the front porch of a home Friday morning. Randy Smith, the department’s Public Information Officer, said in a press release that firefighters responded at 11:52 a.m. to a fire outside a single-family home in the 800 block of West Vine Street. The report came from a passerby who said they saw a fire outside the home. Upon arrival, crews reported a small fire on the front porch of the home. Crews then extended a single hose line and were able to quickly extinguish this fire.

(Champaign-jm) — A 30-year-old man was injured in a shooting Saturday night in Champaign. Police responded to the 1200 block of West Bradley Avenue around 8:49 p.m. after reports of a shooting. Officers found the victim suffering from a non-life-threatening gunshot wound and provided medical aid alongside the Champaign Fire Department before he was taken to a local hospital in stable condition. Investigators said the man was attending a gathering when shots were fired. No arrests have been made.

(USDA–dm)-Building up domestic fertilizer production capabilities includes increasing necessary infrastructure - an area of involvement for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.  USDA’s Rod Bain has the story.

(Gibson City–dm)-The Gibson City city council will hold their monthly meeting tomorrow night.  Items up for discussion include discussion on Special Event liquor license for Harvest Fest and Summer Bash, a Facade Grant application from Gibson City Restoration Association.  Also approval for pots to be planted by Ropps Greenhouse, discussion of the 2026 Oil and Chip project and consideration of Homebuyer/Homebuilder incentive program. The City Council meeting is scheduled to start at 7pm in the city council chambers.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill restricting owners of traveling animal acts from using wild animals in their shows is now headed to the governor’s desk after passing the Senate.  Specifically, House Bill 4255 would add the following breeds to the offense of unlawful use of animals in traveling acts: cougars, jaguars, leopards, lions, tigers, non-human primates, bears and all elephants, not just endangered species.

CHAMPAIGN – A Champaign man is in custody for his alleged role in an early 

12-Hundred block of Providence Circle just after noon on Saturday, following a report of a shooting with injuries. Police learned that a 28-year-old male victim had been struck by gunfire, leading to a non-life-threatening injury. Upon investigation, 27 year old Travon Brize was arrested. The investigation remains ongoing. Officers continue to canvass the surrounding area for witnesses and video footage that may be of investigative assistance. Anyone with information is asked to call Champaign Police at  217-351-4545 or Champaign County Crime Stoppers at  217-373-8477.

(Springfield–jc)  – Should those in jail serving time be allowed to vote. That is a question in Springfield as we head into the end of the session on the 31st. 106th District State Representative, Republican Jason Bunting says he is not in favor of the legislation as written…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate passed legislation to reduce barriers to menopause care. Current state law requires insurance coverage for FDA-approved menopause treatment, but this plan broadens coverage requirements. The bill mandates private health plans to cover medically necessary evaluation and treatment of perimenopause and menopause conditions, including hormone conditions and medications. This plan calls for the Illinois Department of Public Health to create educational materials that include common symptoms, evidence-based treatment and available resources.

(Urbana-jm) – The man accused of taking part in an Urbana shootout in broad daylight was denied pre-trial release during his first appearance in court. Kenyon Dunn, 20 of Urbana, appeared via Zoom before Judge Brett Olmstead on Friday for both arraignment and a detention hearing. Facing a single Class X felony count of being a felon in possession of a machine gun, Dunn waived his right to a preliminary hearing and pleaded not guilty. When the issue of pre-trial detention came up, Judge Brett Olmstead noted that Dunn had a 2023 conviction in juvenile court and a 2025 conviction in adult court, the latter for a weapons offense. He was not “long off parole” before Dunn was accused of taking part in a shootout near the Town and Country Apartments on Thursday.

(Paxton–dm)-If you are doing some painting around the house, Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen tells us about the different Paint Sheens…

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

(Ford County–dm)The Ford County Public Building Commission will hold a meeting on Friday May 29th at 2pm. Discussion items include possible action of an addition to the Ford County Courthouse, seeking bids for older boiler replacement at the Ford County Courthouse, and discussion on appointing Taylor Burnett as Treasurer for the Public Building Commission. The meeting will be held in the small courtroom in the courthouse.

(Joliet–jc)  Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker joined state and local officials in Joliet  to celebrate the final phase of the $1.3 billion Interstate 80 construction project in Will County. Work began earlier this month on two new bridges over the Des Plaines River. The $164 million bridge construction is expected to be completed in 2028, with demolition of the old bridges set for 2029. Reason Foundation’s Annual Highway Report found that nine percent of Illinois’ bridges are structurally deficient, the ninth-highest percentage in the nation.

WPXN News notes…

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, May 30th from 9-2.

Paxton Townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 5th and Saturday, June 6th.

Paxton Main Street will hold their First Friday concert series on Friday, June 5th from 7-9 pm at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton. Back In Time will perform.

The 2026 Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour will stop in Rantoul on Tuesday, June 9th at 11 am.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the Onarga American Legion on Tuesday, June 9th from 1-6 pm.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Business After Hours on Thursday, June 11th from 5:30-7:30 pm at Promise Healthcare in Rantoul.

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

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced that payrolls are up and the unemployment rate in April remained unchanged from March. In a press release Thursday, the IDES said the unemployment rate was 5.1% in April, unchanged from March, and up +0.6% from the same month, one year ago, based on data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The revised March unemployment rate was 5.1%.

(Springfield-jm) – Construction-related lane closures across the state will be temporarily lifted ahead of Memorial Day weekend in an effort to minimize travel disruption. It’s a common occurrence — IDOT opening lanes where able ahead of heavy travel weekends. This weekend, non-emergency closures will be suspended from 3 p.m. today  to 11:59 p.m. on Monday. There will be a few exceptions including I-72 at the I-57 interchange and I-57 north and southbound near Buckley.

(Springfield–jc)  The majority of Democrats in Springfield and Governor J B Pritzker want to see the state streamline costs in the “Build Illinois” plan for the state. But in doing so, they will take control away from local towns and communities during that process. 52nd District State Representative Martin McLaughlin, Republican from Barrington Hills says control over housing needs to be done at the local level and urges for more dialogue and debate, before the state just takes over…

52nd District State Representative Martin McLaughlin, Republican from Barrington Hills. 

(Springfield-jm) – State senators passed a bill to ban companies from manufacturing or selling cosmetic products containing forever chemicals. The ban would apply to PFAS found in makeup, hair and nail products, soaps, lotion, tanning products, perfume and cologne.

(Urbana–jc)  Prices for houses are going up in Champaign County. WPXN’s Joel 

Cluver has the numbers…

URBANA, Ill. — The University of Illinois Board of Trustees, on Thursday, approved a strategic expansion of the Carle Illinois College of Medicine, establishing four new departments that will sharpen its focus on specific areas of medicine and enhance the college’s interdisciplinary collaboration.

The new departments — obstetrics and gynecology; psychiatry; family medicine; and internal medicine — will reside within  Carles’ department of clinical sciences. Each department will comprise faculty members who facilitate specialized education, clinical care and research initiatives.

(Ford County–dm)-If you are a home owner, you should have received a Senior Exemption Form for your property tax bill.  Ford County Supervisor of Assessments Pam Bruens explains.

Ford County Supervisor of Assessments Pam Bruens.  Forms need to be returned to the Supervisor of Assessments office by August 5th.

RANTOUL, IL — The Village of Rantoul invites residents, families, and visitors to attend its annual Memorial Day Ceremony honoring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States. This ceremony will be held at the Veterans Memorial located at the Rantoul Family Sports Complex on Memorial Day at 11:00am. This solemn event provides an opportunity for the community to come together in remembrance and gratitude for those who gave their lives defending our nation’s freedoms. The program will include the presentation of colors, and remarks from Todd Wilson. Attendees will also observe a moment of silence to reflect on the sacrifices of fallen service members. The Veterans Memorial at the Rantoul Family Sports Complex serves as a lasting tribute to local service members and stands as a place of remembrance, respect, and unity.

(Springfield–jc)  –Following reports that New York Governor Kathy Hochul will opt New York into the federal Education Freedom Tax Credit Program, 88th District State Representative Regan Deering, Republican from Decatur renewed her call for Governor JB Pritzker to do the same for Illinois families…

88th district State Representative Regan Deering, Republican from Decatur

Deering said even Democrat governors are recognizing this is a commonsense opportunity to help students and working families. 

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate unanimously passed a bill to help sexual assault survivors when they first interact with police. This plan requires law enforcement to tell survivors they can request to be interviewed by an officer of their sex or gender. The legislation also states police should inform survivors they can have a support person present during the interview.

(Springfield–jc)  –The Citizens Utility Board says Ameren and ComEd customers can expect higher electricity bills after summer supply rates kick in next month.

CUB said Ameren’s summer rate is more than 29% higher than its current price, and ComEd’s summer price represents a roughly 50% increase over two years ago.

ComEd said customers could pay an average of 12% more on their monthly bills.

(Danville–jc)  A Danville man was found guilty of murder stemming from a fatal shooting in 20-24. WCIA reports that  26-year-old Quartez Jackson was found guilty by a jury on Thursday of first degree murder Jackson fatally shot Joseph Jones in December of  2024.

(Springfield-jm) – State senators passed a bill to ban junk fees and create price transparency for consumers. The measure 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 said junk fees cost an average family of four $3,200 each year. Sen. Omar Aquino (D-Chicago) said the price you see should be the price you pay.

(Paxton–jc)  The city of Paxton continues to work with developers on potential projects concerning properties in the south west side of the city. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says they continue to look at southward expansion of Elm Street in town…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Springfield-jm) – A bill heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could help tackle growing frustration over digital coupons for grocery stores. State lawmakers originally wanted to require grocery stores with digital coupons to have a paper option easily accessible for customers. However, this plan 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)- There is just over a week left in the Spring session of legislature, and 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose Republican from Mahomet  talks about what he is working on during the final week of the Budget Session here in Illinois. 

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet

(Champaign-jm) – The case against the Champaign man accused of stabbing three first responders is nearing its conclusion, but he may not be present to see his case end because he refuses to be transported from jail to the courthouse. Champaign County court records show Trevor Lewis has not been to any hearing in the case against him since October.  Lewis faces  six counts: 3 of attempted murder and 3 of aggravated battery. The three first responders were treated and released from an area hospital at the time of the incident last September.

(Rantoul–jc)  The village of Rantoul was recently awarded a 250 thousand dollar grant to help with safe passages to its schools by the state of Illinois. With the school year ending this month, Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says the money will be used for sidewalks and more leading to J W Eater School in the village…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Springfield-jm) – A proposal heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could help address high-risk speeders across the state. Sponsors and advocates hope to create an intelligent speed assistance program within the Secretary of State's office as an alternative to license suspension for dangerous drivers. The bill requires drivers who commit two offenses within a year to install the speed limiting device in their vehicle. This comes as 75% of people with suspended licenses continue to drive.

(Undated–jc)  State, county and local police agencies say to Buckle Up this Memorial day Holiday. WPXN “s Joel Cluver has the story…

WPXNNews notes…

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

The Onarga American Legion Auxiliary will hold their poppy 5k on Saturday, May 23rd starting at 9 am.

The Champaign County Forest Preserve will hold Fishing for Beginners on Saturday, May 23rd from 9-11 am at Middlefork Forest Preserve.

Living Word Church of Roberts will hold a craft and vendor show on Monday, May 25th from 9-3 at the Paxton Civic Center.

Paxton Main Street will hold their First Friday concert series on Friday, June 5th from 7-9 pm at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton. Back In Time will perform.

The 2026 Roberts Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 6th. Activities include breakfast from 8-11, vendors from 8-3, bounce houses and silent auction 9-3, kids cart rides 11-1, bingo 11-2, food trucks 11-3, bags tournament at 4 and live music from 7-10.

Champaign Firefighters Local 1260 will hold a 5k on Sunday, June 7th from 8-10:30 at Carle at the Fields.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate passed legislation to protect low-income families from rising utility rates. This plan could increase the income eligibility threshold for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Sponsors said the LIHEAP change can help more households qualify for the help they need. Yet, Republicans are concerned it will only lead to higher rates for other customers.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois General Assembly is considering helping educational support staff workers, whose incomes dry up each summer by allowing them to collect unemployment benefits between academic terms beginning on June 1st. The measures creating the Unemployment Equity Act, stalled in committee, but the bill’s union backers and its House sponsor say it could still advance in the final two weeks of the legislative session. The Illinois Department of Employment Security estimates it would cost between $138 million and $176 million annually, with an additional $3.6 million for implementation. Public schools, colleges, universities and not for profit academic institutions would bear approximately 93 percent of the costs.

(Springfield–jc) A House Resolution sponsored by 104th District State Representative Brandun Schweizer, Republican from Danville, declares May 2026 as Illinois Military Appreciation Month in the State of Illinois. The resolution  is now in the hands of the full House. Reaction from Representative Schweizer…

104th District State Representative Brandun Schweizer, Republican from Danville. 

(Hoopeston-jm) – The Hoopeston American Legion is looking for volunteers to help place American flags this morning. Volunteers are asked to meet at the American Legion at 8 am to place flags along Routes 1 and 9.

(Watseka-jm) – An appeals court ruled that a lawsuit against an Iroquois County hospital can move forward. Documents say that Holly White had arrived at Iroquois Memorial Hospital's emergency room on May 2, 2018, complaining about severe abdominal pain.  The lawsuit claimed that doctors, who assisted in White's transfer to Riverside in Kankakee, were negligent by not sharing correct details about her care.  The documents stated that White was then found unresponsive on the floor of her hospital room May 4, 2018. Doctors performed emergency surgery but White suffered cardiac arrest and died two days later. An appeals court overturned a previous ruling in favor of the hospital systems.

(Rantoul–jc)  With the Combe Labs company making a major investment at its current plant in the village of Rantoul, Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says this is another example of the village’s positive economic development in jobs…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Undated-jm) – GasBuddy is warning Americans to prepare for the most expensive summer at the pump in years. According to their 2026 Summer Travel Survey, the national average is expected to hit $4.48 a gallon by Memorial Day, a huge jump from $3.14 last year. Prices could climb as high as $4.80 a gallon through the end of summer. The primary driver behind higher gas prices is the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has severely disrupted global oil supplies. Experts say that even after the Strait reopens, it could take over a year for gas prices to fully recover. Additional pressure from refinery dynamics and the upcoming hurricane season could even push prices past the $5 mark, potentially setting new all-time records. The financial strain is already impacting travelers ahead of Memorial Day Weekend. While 56-percent of Americans still plan to drive this summer, the number is down significantly from 69-percent last year.

(Watseka–jc)  New Party and Independent filing is now open at the Iroquois County Clerk's Office for the November 3rd General Election. Office hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Office will be closed Monday, May 25 in observance of Memorial Day. The last day to file the necessary papers in the County Clerk’s Office is Tuesday May 26th at 5pm. Petitions are available at the office in Watseka

(Rantoul–jc)  The Rantoul Paxton V-F-W Honor Guard will help host a Memorial Day Program at the Rantoul Sports Complex on Memorial Day Monday. Rantoul Paxton V F W 67-50 Adjutant Jim Cheek says the event honors those who have served our country

Rantoul Paxton V F W Adjutant Jim Cheek. The public is invited to the service at 11 on Monday morning at the Rantoul Sports Complex

(The Center Square) – A coalition of nonprofit organizations that provide after-school and summer programs for Illinois students is warning their services may suffer if they don’t get more state funding. Leaders of various organizations and the ACT Now coalition gathered this week in Springfield. Coalition-supported bills include House Bill 53-62 and House Bill  30-82, which would appropriate 20 million and 50 million dollars respectively to the Illinois State Board of Education after-school and other programs run by groups that are part of the coalition. Despite the support from some lawmakers, the request comes as many have questioned the legitimacy of state spending on childcare nationwide. Early last month, one Chicago-based nonprofit executive was sentenced to a year in prison after defrauding the state out of roughly $1.9 million, working alongside another executive in a pair of schemes.

(Springfield-jm) – A plan heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could help protect adults, parents and small children who are allergic to diaper ingredients. The bill requires each package or box of diapers sold in Illinois to include a printed list of all ingredients for consumers. Sponsors said the Attorney General or state's attorneys could enforce this change and collect civil penalties from companies violating the policy.

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois republicans met in Springfield Wednesday afternoon to talk about their concerns over Illinois Governor J B Pritzker's Build Illinois plan. 106th district State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emington, says House Bill 44-12  takes solar projects away from local towns and counties…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

(Livingston County-jm) – No injuries were reported after a shed fire southeast of Forrest. The steel structure suffered water damage from firefighting efforts and damage to the contents inside. Responding departments came from Strawn, Fairbury, Cullom, Saunemin, Pontiac, Forrest, Chatsworth, Piper City, Cropsey and Sibley. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.

(Hoopeston-jm) – A Paxton man is facing multiple charges in Vermilion County after his arrest in Hoopeston. 28 year old Dylan McCubbins was arrested following a traffic stop. McCubbins was charged with possession of meth, operating a vehicle with expired registration, improper display of a registration sticker and operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

(Paxton–jc) Some plans for street expansion in the city of Paxton are in the development stage. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says meetings this week are looking at the possibilities of extending Elm Street into a new sub division project in Paxton…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Undated-jm) – An FBI led investigation recently led to nearly 30 arrests in Central Illinois. Suspects were allegedly involved in weapons and drug offenses, according to the FBI Office in Springfield. Law enforcement personnel in Danville, Kankakee, Decatur and beyond pooled resources in a 5-day initiative that focused on locating violent offenders with active warrants. Ryan Presley, Special Agent of the FBI Springfield Field Office, said targets of the operation were the most “high impact” fugitives in east-central Illinois. Presley said the FBI worked alongside local law enforcement to make the arrests. Presley added, no single agency can combat violent crime alone. And by pooling resources, immediate threats to the public were eliminated. Highlights of ‘Operation Viper’ include: 29 arrested, seizure of drugs including over nine pounds of marijuana, almost two pounds of unidentified pills, eight ounces of methamphetamine and almost two ounces of cocaine, and the seizure of five handguns and two assault rifles.

(Paxton–jc)  Health Insurance renewals for county employees is the topic of a meeting this afternoon in Paxton. The Ford County Insurance committee will look to approve the renewal at its meeting at 4-30pm this afternoon at the courthouse in Paxton

(Washington–jc)  Weather in parts of the country cooperated this past week to push planting progress for this year's corn crop. Rod Bain reports…

(The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says Rivian is the best electric vehicle maker in the world, but his Republican challenger says special tax breaks for multibillion-dollar companies don’t work. The governor was in Normal on Tuesday and touted the tax incentives at the R-2 plant in Normal .The Center Square asked Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey about Rivian being offered $827 million in tax incentives over 30 years. Bailey said Boeing was offered tax incentives under former Republican Governor George Ryan, but the company later packed up and moved out. Bailey also pointed to the recent departure of Morton Salt. In addition to the $827 incentive deal for Rivian, the Illinois Department of Transportation provided an 11-point-5 million dollar  grant for a tunnel beneath U.S. Route 150 to connect the company’s manufacturing plant and supplier park.

WPXN News notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper on Friday, May 22nd from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, May 23rd from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

The Onarga American Legion Auxiliary will hold their poppy 5k on Saturday, May 23rd starting at 9 am.

The Champaign County Forest Preserve will hold Fishing for Beginners on Saturday, May 23rd from 9-11 am at Middlefork Forest Preserve.

Paxton Main Street will hold their First Friday concert series on Friday, June 5th from 7-9 pm at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton. Back In Time will perform.

The 2026 Roberts Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 6th. Activities include breakfast from 8-11, vendors from 8-3, bounce houses and silent auction 9-3, kids cart rides 11-1, bingo 11-2, food trucks 11-3, bags tournament at 4 and live music from 7-10.

Champaign Firefighters Local 1260 will hold a 5k on Sunday, June 7th from 8-10:30 at Carle at the Fields.

(Chicago-jm) – Watchdog groups are calling on regulators to reject $178 million, or 80 percent of a $220.8 million rate hike requested by Nicor Gas earlier this year, citing wasteful capital spending, excessive shareholder profits and “lavish” executive bonuses. Consumer advocate groups including the Citizens Utility Board say the requested hike is about five times higher than it should be. 

(Springfield–jc)  – The Illinois Department of Labor  reached a settlement with Metz Culinary Management,  following an investigation into alleged violations of the Illinois Equal Pay Act of 2003. That  included unlawful requests for job applicants’ salary history and retaliation against an employee who raised concerns about those practices. Metz, a dining services provider with multi-state operations, was awarded a contract to operate dining services at an Illinois college. Workers were asked to provide pay stub information. Metz agreed to pay an 18 thousand dollar fine. 

(Paxton–jc)  Motor Fuel Tax dollars will help with several city road projects in Paxton this spring and summer. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold provides an overview of those projects…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Undated-jm) – It’s National EMS Week. The theme for this year is “Improving Outcomes Together”. It highlights both patient care and the well-being of first responders. First responders from around the area are thanking EMS workers for their dedication and commitment to helping people during emergencies.

(Rantoul–jc)  –The pool is opening on Saturday. The Rantoul Recreation Department says they are so excited for another wonderful summer at the Hap Parker Aquatic Center. The  Early Bird Pass Sale is still taking place through Friday. The public can purchase pool passes for a discounted rate. The Rantoul Recreation Department is hosting an Open House on Thursday,  from 4pm to 7pm. 

(Rantoul–jc)  8th grade graduation at one area Christian school was last night. St Malachy held the pomp and circumstance at the school in Rantoul. St Malachy Director of Stewardship Vanessa Martinez says enrollment for next year has already started…

St Malachy School of Rantoul Director of Stewardship Vanessa Martinez

(Fisher–jc)  It was orange with large black letters spelling out the town's name. Fisher’s old water tower is being dismantled in the Champaign County town today.  The structure was sold to the Illinois American Water Company and workers started the demolition process earlier yesterday.

(Sprignfield–jc)  Gas prices have spiked across Illinois, ranging from around 4-75 per gallon in southern Illinois to over 5-30 per gallon for regular unleaded in parts of the city of Chicago and suburbs. The state also imposes a  48-point-3 cents per gallon tax on every gallon of gasoline and an additional 5 percent tax on top of that figure. There is also a scheduled  increase set for July First. Republicans in Springfield are calling for some relief. Reaction from 106th district State Representative Jason Bunting of Emmington…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

(Normal–jc)  –Yesterday, Governor J-B Pritzker joined Rivian and local leaders to highlight how Illinois’ investments in electric vehicle manufacturing, infrastructure, and workforce development are helping drive continued growth in the state’s electric vehicle ecosystem.  As Rivian expands production of its R-2 vehicle, the company’s growing footprint in Normal continues creating jobs and strengthening Illinois’ position as a leader in the future of manufacturing. Rivian is rapidly hiring employees to support production.

(The Center Square) – A new challenge to Illinois’ requirement for gun owners to have a state police-issued license has been filed in federal court.

The New Civil Liberties Alliance announced the lawsuit Tuesday against Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly, Attorney General Kwame Raoul and Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke, challenging the constitutionality of the Illinois Firearms Owner’s Identification Card.

(Springfield-jm) – State senators passed a bill Tuesday to include railroad safety information in student handbooks. Sponsors say people have been concerned about schools near railroads and ensuring students know the protocols in place to keep them safe. This plan will allow schools to opt out of the requirement if their school board finds railroad safety is covered in their curriculum. It now heads to the governor to sign.

(Springfield–jc)  The Morton Salt Company is moving out of the state of Illinois and to the state of Kansas. One Republican representative says this is another example of bad leadership policies by the Democrats in Illinois. Reaction from 69th District State Representative Joe Sosnowski, Republican from Rockford…

69th district State Representative Joe Sosnowski, Republican from Rockford

(Hoopeston-jm) – Hoopeston Area High School has been recognized for its commitment to preparing students for life after graduation, earning the Career Choices Gold Medal for the 7th consecutive year. The award, presented by curriculum publisher Academic Innovations, honors schools nationwide that demonstrate excellence in helping students prepare for college, careers and life. 

(Urbana-jm) – A van struck an OSF building in Urbana Tuesday, forcing the evacuation of the facility. Urbana fire officials say the van hit a gas meter and OSF Heart of Mary Medical Center around 1:30. No structural damage was reported to the building.

(Rantoul–jc)  The investment into Rantoul from the Combe Laboratory Company continues to be a positive for the village of Rantoul. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says the company will have 100 jobs continuing, with the potential for around 30 more jobs in Rantoul…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Paxton–jc)  Another “No Kings’ rally is set for Sunday June 14th in Paxton. Several similar marches have occurred in Paxton and several other locations in East Central Illinois including Champaign Urbana and Bloomington Normal This event is set for Noon on Sunday June 14th at the corner of Pells and Market in downtown Paxton. 

Champaign–jc)  –At a special board meeting Tuesday, the Parkland College Board of Trustees voted to enact a phased closure of the Parkland Child Development Center. The board action follows an administrative recommendation to close the center due to ongoing operational challenges, staffing shortages, and budget deficits. The center will end operations by June 30th.

(The Center Square) – Illinois House Republican Leader Tony McCombie has filed legislation she says will make the vehicle registration process more efficient and accessible. McCombie said House Bill 5767 would provide residents the option to renew a two-year registration sticker online…

89th District State Representative and Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie of Savannah

(Springfield–jc)  The Illinois Liquor Control Commission is now offering a directory of breweries, brew pubs, distilleries and wineries on its website, www.ilcc.illinois.gov. The commission says it is offering the directory to support and promote those businesses.

(Springfield–jc0  –A prayer gathering titled “One Nation Under God” is scheduled from noon to 1:30 p.m.today at the Illinois Capitol Complex Visitors Center.

The event is sponsored by local state Senator Chris Balkema, Republican from Channahon,  the Illinois Prayer Caucus Network and the Illinois Family Institute.

WPXN News notes…

The Onarga American Legion Auxiliary will hold their poppy 5k on Saturday, May 23rd starting at 9 am.

The Champaign County Forest Preserve will hold Fishing for Beginners on Saturday, May 23rd from 9-11 am at Middlefork Forest Preserve.

Living Word Church of Roberts will hold a craft and vendor show on Monday, May 25th from 9-3 at the Paxton Civic Center.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a Memorial Day parade on Monday, May 25th leaving from the Onarga Methodist Church at 9:45 and going to the cemetery for a 10:30 service.

Country Line Dancing with DJ Maggie B will take place on Friday, May 29th from 8-11 pm at The Cadillac in downtown Paxton.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, May 30th from 9-2.

(Rural Paxton-jm) – The National Weather Service has confirmed an EF-0 tornado touched down about five miles southwest of Paxton Monday morning. The tornado was on the ground for about a quarter of a mile striking a farmstead just north of 100 North 1500 East. The National Weather Service said the tornado had estimated winds of 85 mph.

(Undated-jm) – The average price of gas in the State of Illinois is now above $5 per gallon, even after a week that saw slight decreases in two local averages and the national average. GasBuddy’s weekly report on gas prices found that the average price of gas for the state is at $5.03, nine cents higher than it was last week. Nationwide, the average price of regular gas fell by one cent in the last week, while the average price of diesel fuel fell by 0.5 cents. Gas Buddy's Patrick DeHaan says the conflict with Iran and the Memorial Day holiday are contributing to higher prices and market volatility.

(Rantoul–jc)  Village of Rantoul leaders recently secured 36 Million dollars for projects at its municipal airport. The money will be given to the village over a 5 year period. Now that the funds have been secured, Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says a proposal has been sent on how to use some of those funds…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Livingston County-jm) – More than 2,000 grams of THC cartridges, flower, oil and edibles were seized after a traffic stop in Livingston County over the weekend. 

The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office said deputies responded to the area of Interstate 55 near the 197 mile marker for a reckless driving complaint. Law enforcement found the vehicle, stopped it and found about 2,100 grams of THC products inside.

(Springfield–dm)-Both sides of the aisle in the Illinois House this spring have been talking about affordability.  A recent survey of Illinois voters finds widespread concern about costs and growing frustration with the state's economy. As members of the General Assembly head back to Springfield, State Representative Chris Miller of Hindsboro said he has a three-step plan that can help out Illinois residents. Dean Abbot has the information.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is looking for tips to pass along to Champaign Police in a case of identity theft and credit card fraud that started earlier this year. Officials said that on March 20, a man walked into Champaign’s Best Buy on Prospect Avenue and made several thousand dollars’ worth of purchases. The credit accounts used to make the purchases were created with a stolen identity, and the victim later received the credit card bill. Champaign Police and Crime Stoppers are looking for tips regarding the identity of the suspect, who was recorded on store surveillance cameras. He is described as a heavy-set Black male wearing a black hoodie and black jeans.

(Onarga–dm)-On Saturday May 23rd The Onarga American Legion 

Auxiliary Post 551 will sponsor their annual Poppy5K Run/Walk.  Onarga American Legion Auxiliary Post 551 Spokesperson Kaitlin Fink tells us what the proceeds from the 5K goes to, and how to register to participate

Onarga American Legion Auxiliary Post 551 Spokesperson Kaitlin Fink.  The race will start at 9am at the Onarga Legion building.

(Springfield-jm) — Environmental advocates continue to pressure lawmakers to require more transparency about data centers’ water and energy use as the legislative session creeps toward the finish line. The POWER Act is the primary vehicle for regulations that address concerns about the effects data centers have on communities, but it hasn’t seen any action beyond subject matter hearings since it was introduced in February. With less than three weeks left before lawmakers are slated to adjourn, however, it’s unclear whether the wide-ranging bill will come together and whether Gov. JB Pritzker will throw his support behind any specific regulatory proposal. Pritzker mentioned data centers in his February State of the State address, calling for PJM Interconnection, the electric grid operator that covers all or part 13 states from Illinois to the East Coast, to require data center developers to pay for and provide their own energy. He also proposed a two-year pause on state tax credits for new data centers to compensate for rising demand and higher prices. Illinois has provided tax incentives for data centers since Pritzker signed bipartisan legislation in 2019. According to the state’s 2024 report, at least 27 data centers had received incentives totaling $983 million in estimated lifetime tax breaks and benefits.

(Springfield-jm) — The Illinois State Police is stressing that Troopers are not the ones sending text messages threatening enforcement action following a supposed “vehicular conduct violation.” Officials posted on Facebook that a scam like this is circulating in Illinois and that the Illinois State Police does not send text messages demanding immediate payment or threatening action. Supposed action includes: 

“Withdrawal of lawful driving authorization”, “Restriction against registration continuation”, “Expanded statutory financial obligations” and  “Referral toward mandatory legal dispositon”. The text messages also provide a link that people are to enter into their browser and to reply “Y” to get the link again.

(Paxton–jc)  The latest event in the city of Paxton was this past weekend' s Draggin’ Main and Open House event. It was another event to bring another crowd to the city. Paxton has re-developed several blocks in the downtown area and the next phase has already started. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold talks about the streetscape and the diverse types of businesses to bring people to the city…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Champaign-jm) – The man accused of shooting a woman as she answered a knock on her door in Champaign was denied pretrial release. James Brown was in court on Friday and Monday for an arraignment and a detention hearing, respectively, in the case against him. Court records show that on Friday, Brown waived a preliminary hearing and entered a plea of not guilty. The issue of his pretrial detention was continued to Monday. The Champaign County State’s Attorney’s Office filed a petition to deny Brown pretrial release, and Judge Brett Olmstead granted that request.

(OSF–dm)-Are you struggling to get up early to work out? Experts suggest tying it to your *body* clock...not the clock on your phone. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare explains.

If you can’t make time for 150 minutes of exercise a week...Doctor Gumm recommends "exercise snacking." Examples are walking up and down three flights of stairs, three times a day, three days a week. Or...parking your car a little further from the office and getting in extra steps – simple things that you can modify easily into your daily routine. 

(Champaign County-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about scams involving impersonations of deputies.  The sheriff's office said that it never asks for payment by phone, text, email, cryptocurrency, or electronic transfer to avoid arrest, pay fines and more. Scammers are impersonating officers by using spoofed phone numbers that appear to come from the sheriff's office. Callers might also threaten arrest if payment isn't made. Anyone who receives a suspicious call is urged to hang up immediately, not provide personal or financial information and not send money. For questions or concerns, contact the Champaign County Sheriff's Office at 217-384-1204 or 217-333-8911 after business hours.

(Melvin–dm)-The Ford County Fair talent show is returning this year after taking a year off last year.  Diane Perkins, Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson,  tells us how you can register to enter the talent show.

Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins.  The talent show is scheduled for Tuesday, June 16th at 7pm in the dance building on the fairgrounds

(Gibson City–jc)  The Horsch Radish restaurant in downtown Gibson City is now closed, but owners of the property are hosting an event to look at new uses for the downtown location. A public forum is set for May 26th inside the former restaurant property. 

(Springfield-jm) – State lawmakers have not taken a vote on the Chicago Bears-endorsed megaprojects bill since April 22, but Gov. JB Pritzker told reporters Monday that he is optimistic the General Assembly will pass the plan before session ends. Bears fans and mayors hoping to land megaprojects are anxiously waiting to see action on the Payment in Lieu of Taxes, or PILOT, bill with two weeks left in the theoretical fourth quarter.  Pritzker said the Senate is still working on amended language for the plan that could let companies working on megaprojects have their property taxes frozen for up to 40 years and negotiate an annual smaller payment based on a weighted vote of local taxing bodies. House sponsors said the state should use half of the revenue for property tax relief for Illinois families. Sixty percent of that funding would go to local communities with megaprojects, and the remaining 40% could be invested in the statewide property tax relief fund. However, data from the governor's office recently showed that the proposal would provide little relief to the average homeowner. Republicans are demanding more action to tackle property taxes.

WPXN News notes…

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, May 30th from 9-2.

Paxton Townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 5th and Saturday, June 6th.

Paxton Main Street will hold their First Friday concert series on Friday, June 5th from 7-9 pm at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton. Back In Time will perform.

The 2026 Roberts Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 6th. Activities include breakfast from 8-11, vendors from 8-3, bounce houses and silent auction 9-3, kids cart rides 11-1, bingo 11-2, food trucks 11-3, bags tournament at 4 and live music from 7-10.

Champaign Firefighters Local 1260 will hold a 5k on Sunday, June 7th from 8-10:30 at Carle at the Fields.

The 2026 Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour will stop in Rantoul on Tuesday, June 9th at 11 am.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois House Public Utilities Committee unanimously approved a plan last week to ban loud commercials on streaming services. Senator Doris Turner and Representative Mike Coffey's bill could ban commercial volumes from being louder than the program you're watching. This comes as the FCC preempts most state and local regulation of cable and broadcast TV, but streaming apps operate over the internet and fall outside that scope. 

(Iroquois County–jc)  Traffic was backed up for several reasons late  Sunday afternoon from Paxton to Giman. Northbound traffic was slowed to a crawl in the northbound lanes of Interstate 57 due to an accident between Gilman and Onarga. The Construction zone in the area also slowed traffic. The accident happened around 4pm on Sunday. Now word was provided on the extent of vehicle damages or any injuries. Traffic continued to be slowed through 8 on Sunday. 

(Springfield-jm) - A plan heading to Governor JB Pritzker's desk could expand access to life-saving asthma medication at schools. The bill 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, including practice fields, gyms and other athletic facilities. This comes as exercise-induced asthma can put student athletes at heightened risk of sudden respiratory distress.

(USDA–dm)-How does USDA's initial winter wheat production forecast for the season impact both domestic and global wheat supply and demand estimates?  Rod Bain has the story.

(Springfield-jm) – A proposal that would expand access to a federal program that discounts the price of prescription drugs could end up costing Illinois employers an additional $89 million a year, including more than $12 million a year for the state of Illinois itself. That’s according to a memo, dated May 12th, from the Department of Central Management Services, the state agency that administers the state employee health plan, to Representative Travis Weaver, who requested the information following a meeting of the legislative Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability. 

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Police Department arrested a man on Sunday after an argument reportedly escalated into him firing a gun. Officers responded to the 2600 block of W. Springfield Avenue around midnight for a report of shots fired. Police identified the suspect as 38-year-old Ywaian J. Langford. Langford was charged with aggravated discharge of a firearm, possession of a stolen firearm, felon in possession of a firearm, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and aggravated assault.

(Rantoul–dm)-Memorial Day is around the corner, and the Rantoul/Paxton VFW Post 6750 will be hosting the ceremonies. Rantoul/Paxton VFW Post 6750 Adjutant Jim Creek tells us about some of the changes for this year’s ceremony.

Rantoul/Paxton VFW Post6750 Adjutant Jim Creek.

(The Center Square) – Former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan – from federal prison over corruption charges – penned an op-ed last week calling on Gov. J.B. Pritzker to accept the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Program. The program, which Pritzker has been reluctant to opt the state into, would allow people to deduct up to $1,700 from their federal taxes if they donate to a qualifying K-12 scholarship granting program. Republicans in Springfield also called on Pritzker to opt in this week. Both Madigan and the Republicans argued the governor is putting politics over the needs of citizens.    

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton officials say they’re considering regulating e-bikes and scooters with hopes to get out in front of the problem before someone gets hurt. At last week’s Paxton City Council meeting, they discussed how they want to approach the issue locally. The city council set a public safety meeting to discuss this at their next meeting, which is June 9. It starts at 6 p.m.

(Springfield-jm) – There are no workers more exposed to workplace violence than healthcare workers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has found that in 73% of all cases of non-fatal workplace violence, healthcare workers were the victims. Healthcare workers are expected to endure the attacks and continue to work without reporting it. With no documentation from a report, many nurses can't pursue worker’s compensation claims. But now, lawmakers in Springfield are close to passing a bill that could force hospitals to document these attacks. If hospitals don’t comply with reporting requirements, they could face a fine of up to $500 a day.

(Springfield-jm) — The Illinois House could vote on the massive auto insurance reform plan as soon as this week. Democrats on the House Executive Committee approved the bill to help ban insurance companies from increasing auto premiums by more than 10% without first notifying consumers 30 days before their renewal date. The Illinois Department of Insurance would be responsible for ensuring auto rates are not excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory. The Illinois Insurance Association believes this plan could ultimately harm consumers through higher auto insurance costs and fewer coverage options. House Republicans are also concerned the legislation will ruin the state's insurance market.

(Springfield–dm)-With just a couple of weeks from the end of the legislative session, 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington, tells us what’s left to do…

106th District Sate Representative Jason Bunting  Republican from Emmington 

(Springfield-jm) – Diverse interest groups, from public school activists and downstate voters to state officials and school boards, have pushed Governor J-B Pritzker to finally make a decision about the Trump Administration’s Education Freedom Tax Credit. Yet, there has been mostly silence from the Governor’s Mansion as Pritzker considers opting into the controversial school choice tax credit, an initiative that has also stalled in a bipartisan state Senate Bill 3776 due to scarce conversations with colleagues. The tax credit passed under the One Big Beautiful Bill, is a dollar for dollar non refundable federal tax credit for donations of up to $1,700 a year to authorized scholarship granting organizations. The organization then distributes scholarships to eligible families, who can then decide whether to spend their scholarships on expenses for private, public or charter schools. As a federal initiative, any taxpayer can take advantage of the tax credit, but students can only receive the scholarships if their governor or state legislatures opt them in.

(Champaign County-jm) – The temperature is rising and so are concerns for health professionals in Champaign County. The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District is sending out a warning about the small animals that have a big and dangerous impact. They include mosquitoes carrying West Nile Virus and ticks carrying various kinds of diseases, like Lyme Disease. Another is Alpha-Gal Syndrome from the lone star tick, and it can make you allergic to meat. They say luckily, they have not seen any lone star ticks in the area. Still, they say that it is important to be diligent about checking yourself, your loved ones and your pets.

(Paxton-jm) – A heavy load semi got stuck in Paxton Sunday afternoon causing travel backups. The truck hit a stop sign and traffic island at the Patton Street bridge. Traffic backups occurred until the load was moved off the bridge.

(Paxton–dm)-It’s gardening season and Ropps Greenhouse Ownwer Roger Cramer from has some tips on how to keep you Tomatoes healthy

Ropps Greenhouse Owner Roger Cramer

(Cook County–dm)-A Cook County judge has found Cook County liable for damages to taxpayers who lost equity in their home due to a state law. Under state law, homeowners can lose their property over unpaid property taxes. The system, as noted by Illinois Policy Institute, has been ruled unconstitutional by The Supreme Court, and multiple bills await action in the General Assembly to address the issue in the state’s tax code.

(The Center Square) – Illinois state Rep. Adam Niemerg, who serves on the Immigration and Human Rights Committee, is calling for the resignation of John Laesch after social media posts and videos circulated online alleging the Aurora mayor shared the live locations of federal immigration agents operating in the city. The controversy gained national attention after the conservative social media account Libs of TikTok posted footage accusing Laesch of “doxxing” ICE agents and tracking their movements in Aurora.The post claimed the mayor was “actively protecting foreign murderers, rapists, and pedophiles” and demanded his resignation.  Niemerg sharply criticized the mayor’s actions, arguing they endangered federal officers attempting to apprehend violent offenders.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man who pleaded guilty in April to stabbing his wife during a domestic incident a year ago was sentenced to 15 years behind bars Friday.  Rafael Magdaleno-Mendoza pleaded guilty to attempted murder and was sentenced to 15 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections with credit for 353 days already served. With the guilty plea, the following charges against Magdaleno-Mendoza were dismissed: aggravated criminal sexual assault with a threat toward life, aggravated criminal sexual assault with a weapon and aggravated domestic battery.

WPXN News notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper on Friday, May 22nd from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, May 23rd from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

The Onarga American Legion Auxiliary will hold their poppy 5k on Saturday, May 23rd starting at 9 am.

The Champaign County Forest Preserve will hold Fishing for Beginners on Saturday, May 23rd from 9-11 am at Middlefork Forest Preserve.

Living Word Church of Roberts will hold a craft and vendor show on Monday, May 25th from 9-3 at the Paxton Civic Center.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a Memorial Day parade on Monday, May 25th leaving from the Onarga Methodist Church at 9:45 and going to the cemetery for a 10:30 service.

Country Line Dancing with DJ Maggie B will take place on Friday, May 29th from 8-11 pm at The Cadillac in downtown Paxton.

(Springfield-jm) — A bill that would require businesses to provide cash or credit refunds for eligible returns is making its way through the Illinois Legislature. State Senator Rachel Ventura said House Bill 4044 would prohibit retailers from requiring that people accept store credit instead of a refund on unopened or unused products. Eligible products include any machine, appliance, clothing or similar product that was purchased for personal, family or household purpose, the bill reads. If a retailer suspects fraud, the retailer would not be required to accept a return. The measure does not apply to food, beverages, medicine or medical equipment.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Senate Democrats unveiled a package of legislation on Wednesday aiming to place new guardrails on rapidly expanding artificial intelligence technology, which they said is already reshaping daily life. The package includes eight bills focused on consumer protections, student privacy, housing costs and transparency surrounding AI systems.

(Rantoul–jc)  –If you see some Rantoul police on top or around the Rantoul Dunkin’ location, there is a good reason. It’s a fundraiser for the police state torch run and Special Olympics. It starts early this morning, says Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third. 

Danville, IL –  East Central Illinois Community Action Agency  offices in Ford County at the Paxton  Office and Iroquois County at the Watseka Office will be closed during May 18-25. The staff will be attending professional development during this time. Those with needs are to call the Vermilion County office in Danville  at 217-554-9122.

State Representative Chris Miller, Republican from Hindsboro is challenging what he called "Pritzker style affordability."  Miller pointed to an Illinois Policy article that showed Governor Pritzker has presided over $77 billion in tax increases since 2019 …

101st District State Representative Chris Miller, Republican from Hindsboro

(Champaign–jc)  A Champaign man has been arrested for his role in a November 2025 shooting that seriously injured a Champaign resident. Police say in the early morning hours of  November 17, they responded to the 700 block of North. Elm Street, following a report of a shooting. On-scene, officers located a resident suffering from multiple potentially life-threatening gunshot wounds. She continues to recover from those injuries.  The investigation indicated that the resident was answering a late-night knock at her door when 31-year-old James E. Brown allegedly opened fire, striking her multiple times. Brown fled the area before officers arrived. Brown was arrested in Champaign today, during the execution of a search warrant related to the investigation. He now faces charges including Attempted Murder, Aggravated Battery with a Firearm, and Unlawful Possession of a Weapon by a Felon. The investigation is ongoing and police are asking for more information. Call Champaign Police at 217-351-4545 or contact Champaign County Crimestoppers

(Illinois–dm)-May 10-16 is National Police Week and it honors law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, supports their surviving families, and recognizes the service of current officers. 105th District State Representative Dennis Tipsword Republican form Metamora is not only a state representative, but is also a law enforcement officer

105th District State Representative Dennis Tipsword Republican from Metemora

(The Center Square) – Republican lawmakers are warning that the departure of iconic salt producer Morton Salt from Chicago is the latest sign Illinois is becoming increasingly unfriendly to businesses, citing high taxes, litigation costs and regulatory hurdles as key reasons companies are leaving the state. The company, founded in Chicago in 1848 and long associated with the city through its iconic “Morton Salt Girl” branding, has shifted its headquarters operations to Overland Park, Kansas, after decades in downtown Chicago. State Sen. Chris Balkema said Morton Salt’s departure reflects a larger trend he believes is being fueled by Illinois’ business climate.

(Illinois–dm)-(The Center Square) – A new report ranks Illinois 46 out of 50 states for financial transparency, partly due to the state’s slow fiscal reporting. Truth in Accounting’s Financial Transparency Score 2026 report evaluates how effectively each state discloses its true financial condition through audited reports. Truth in Accounting founder & CEO Sheila Weinberg said Illinois taxpayers are not given information on a timely basis. Illinois’ 2026 financial transparency score of 51 ranked 46th in the country on a report that evaluates audit quality, timeliness, pension reporting and accounting practices.

(Springfield–jm) – With warmer weather on the horizon, the Illinois Department of Health is urging people to take precautions against illnesses spread by animals and pests. The IDPH said there are certain steps and actions people can take to reduce their risk of contracting any serious illnesses.  This time of year, there are three main categories of concern when it comes to these illnesses: mosquitos and west nile, tickborne illness and rabies in bats.

(Roberts–dm)-The Mennonite College of Nursing at ISU along with Jeremiah 33:6  are sponsoring a free produce pantry and health fair today at the Roberts gym from 3pm to 5pm.  Founder of Jeremiah 33:6 spokesperson Valarie Wright tells us about the produce pantry.

  Jeremiah 33:6 spokesperson Valarie Wright. Some of the items that will be checked at the Health Fair include checking Blood Pressure, vision and A1C .

(Champaign-jm) — The man accused of attempted murder in the case of an Urbana shooting in January was granted pretrial release following a recent medical procedure.  48-year-old John Webb was granted release after he filed a motion asking Judge Matthew Lee to reconsider pretrial detention. At the same time, a trial call that was scheduled for May 11 was vacated. The Champaign County State’s Attorneys’ Office explained that Webb required surgery to amputate part of his foot due to severe diabetes, which had previously resulted in the amputation of Webb’s other foot. They added that Webb was released over the state’s objection. Webb’s amputations will result in confinement to a wheelchair, and he will be on GPS monitoring while on release. Webb is charged with attempted murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and possessing a weapon as a felon in connection with a shooting on Jan. 28, 2026. Prosecutors said Webb got into an argument over a parking spot and opened fire on the victim, shooting him in the back and neck.

(USDA–dm)-: USDA's first look at the new U.S. and world commodity marketing year and winter wheat crop forecasts highlight this month's reports from the Agriculture Department. Rod Bain has the report.

(Undated-jm) — The Illinois Department of Agriculture says it will distribute more than $796,000 in federal funds over the next three years to expand access to locally grown produce and boost the competitiveness of the state’s specialty crop industry. An application for grant funding will be available this week on the Illinois Department of Agriculture website and must be returned to the Department by noon on June 5, 2026. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, local and government entities, trade and commodity associations, public and private colleges and universities.

(Champaign–jc)  The Parkland College Board of Trustees voted this week to appoint a new peace officer for the next fiscal year. Paris Illinois native Derek Fletcher will serve as a Peace Officer to the Parkland Public Safety Department.

(Paxton–jc)  Its Draggin’ Main…Cruise Market Street in Paxton on Saturday. The day starts with a breakfast at Veteran’s Square at 8am. Several Open Houses are set for 10am until 2pm. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says one of the Open Houses is the Paxton Masonic Lodge Building…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(The Center Square) – The Democrat National Convention’s committee on site selection visited Chicago this week, again considered the city for their 2028 or 2032 convention. As highlighted by Gov. J.B. Pritzker, the 2024 DNC generated $371 million for Chicago’s economy. The committee is also considering other major cities for their 2028 event, including Atlanta, Boston, Denver and Philadelphia.

(Paxton–jc)  Now that the city of Paxton has secured funding for repair of the Clayton Hale walk bridge, city leaders are looking at the process and timeline to complete the bridge repairs. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold talks about the timeline…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Washington–dm)-After the House of Representatives voted to pass a bill which would allow for the year-round sale of gasoline blended with 15% ethanol, or E-15, U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth said she supports the measure. In a statement, Duckworth said the bill will critically help American farmers and keep costs for consumers down at the pump. The senator also criticized Republican leadership for removing a similar measure last minute from a broader package of legislation known as the "Farm Bill" earlier this month.

WPXN News notes…

Rankin townwide garage sales will take place Friday, May 15th and Saturday, May 16th.

The nonprofit group Jeremiah 33:6 will hold a free produce pantry and health fair on Friday, May 15th from 3-5 pm at the Roberts Gym in Roberts.

The Onarga American Legion will hold their fish fry on Friday, May 15th from 4:30-7 pm at the Legion Hall at Durham Park.

Gibson City’s Friday Night Under the Lights will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 15, featuring a car cruise, food vendors and live music downtown on Sangamon Avenue.

The Village of Rantoul will hold a clean up day on Saturday, May 16th from 8 to noon on Galaxy Drive.

Paxton Main Street, historical open houses, free to attend, will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 16th at the Ford County Historical Society’s Water Tower Museum, the old Ford County jail and sheriff’s residence, the Paxton Masonic Lodge No. 416, the old Paxton freight house, and the State Street Mall, where Royce Baier’s antique car collection can be viewed.

Paxton’s annual Draggin’ Main car cruise — “The Cruise on Market” — is set for 3 to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 16, on Market Street in downtown Paxton. 

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper on Friday, May 22nd from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, May 23rd from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

(Undated-jm) – The Memorial Day Weekend travel plans are expected to be busy. Record numbers of people expected to be on the roadways. Law enforcement agencies across Illinois will participate in a traffic law enforcement campaign, designed to keep highways safe. The enforcement campaign begins this week, running from May 15 to May 26, is part of the “Click It or Ticket” campaign that emphasizes proper seat belt usage. County sheriff deputies will join state troopers and municipal officers conducting high-visibility enforcement to look for violations of seat belt laws; people who fail to buckle up and distracted driving violations. Motorists will be stopped and ticketed.

(Washington–jc)  The Spring corn planting season continues at a fast pace. With a look at the state and nation corn crop planting process is U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Champaign–jc) Parkland College has announced Justin Kirby as the 2026 Distinguished Alumnus Award recipient along with this year's candidates for the college's 59th Commencement. Kirby is  C-E-O and Founder of Kirby Wealth Management Group .Kirby will be honored at Parkland College's Arts and Sciences and Career and Technical Education Commencement ceremony tonight at 7 at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts.

(Fisher-jm) – Fisher National Bank is warning residents against giving out their account information amidst a scam circulating. The bank announced they received reports that scammers have called individuals claiming to work for the bank and request account information. The bank says they will never call and ask for your account information and if you receive a similar call, hang up and don't provide your information.

(Paxton–jc)  The next phase for the city of Paxton “streetscape” program is moving forward after the city received an 850 thousand dollar grant from the federal government. City of Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the local team worked very hard to help the city receive the funds…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold. Engineering and preparation work will continue through this year, with site work and upgrades planned for 20-27

(Rantoul–jc)  A full entertainment event calendar is set for downtown Rantoul. Its starts with the “Summer Nights series on Fridays in June, with the first concert event on June 5th. In July, Freedom Fridays take over the downtown area of Rantoul. These events will see entertainment, activities for kids and adults along with food, drinks and more

(Chicago–jc)  Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson says he is going to meet Pope Leo XIV in Rome later this month. NBC 5 Chicago reported that the mayor’s first visit with the Chicago-born pope is set for May 28. The mayor said he would thank the pontiff for his moral clarity.

(Springfield–jc)  –The Illinois House Insurance Committee has unanimously passed legislation to expand health insurance coverage that includes rehabilitative and habilitative services for children under 19 that have an acquired speech-language disorder. Senate Bill 2899 now heads to the House Floor for consideration.

(Springfield-jm) – Growing pessimism over the direction of the global economy is leading budget analysts for the governor’s office and Illinois’ legislature to temper revenue expectations less than three weeks before lawmakers are set to finalize a new budget. Both the governor’s budget office and the General Assembly’s Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability revised revenue projections for the current year and fiscal year 2027 down by less than 1 percent. While the change is small and generally keeps budget talks on track, it's a sign that confidence in the economy is waning. Pritzker’s budget office decreased its FY27 revenue projection by $173 million to $55.9 billion. The change leaves projected revenue $149 million short of the spending Pritzker proposed. COGFA revised its projection down $190 million to $55.3 billion.

(Rantoul–jc)  the village of Rantoul airport is set to get upgrades and more. The village will net 36 million dollars in grant dollars over the next 5 years, says Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Paxton-jm) – Big changes are coming to downtown Paxton. A new monument went up yesterday outside the Paxton Carnegie Library and the Clayton Hale Bridge will soon be fixed. The monument was a combined effort between the Chamber of Commerce and Paxton Main Street. The Clayton Hale Bridge will soon be fixed thanks to a $250,000 IDOT grant. The walk bridge on Orleans Street that connects the east and west sides has been closed for over a year due to safety concerns.

(Vermilion County-jm) – The Vermilion County Board has reached a new salary package for elected officials.  The new salary package for elected officials covers the Vermilion County Clerk, County Treasurer, Supervisor of Assessments, Board of Review members and County Board members, plus the County Board Chairman. It does not cover the Sheriff or Regional Superintendent of Schools even though those offices are also on the November ballot.  The salaries for those two positions are set by the State of Illinois.

(Paxton–jc)  The annual Draggin’ Main…Cruise Market Street day is set for Saturday in the city of Paxton. The day starts with a breakfast at Veteran’s Square then moves to several Open House events, including the former jail and residence, says Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Rantoul–jc)   A Decatur man was arrested in Rantoul this week on an assault charge. Police say that on Monday afternoon, Rantoul police were called to the 1200 block of Falcon Drive to  locate a suspect of an aggravated assault from the previous evening. Upon Investigation police observed and arrested 30-year-old Troy Stewart of Decatur. Police say Stewart was in the possession of a firearm

Stewart went into an apartment as officers approached, but came back out moments later and was detained along with the other occupants of the apartment.

Stewart was arrested on charges of Aggravated Assault and Unlawful Use of a Weapon and transported to the Champaign County Correctional Center.

(The Center Square) – AAA says the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline is now $5.03 in Illinois, up from $4.97 on Tuesday. The national average is $4.51. Illinois imposes a fuel tax of 48.3 cents per gallon. The state tax is scheduled to rise to 49.6 cents per gallon on July 1.

(The Center Square) – A bill to regulate homeowners insurance rates will be up for consideration in the Illinois House after it cleared the state Senate on Wednesday.

An amended version of House Bill 4273 prohibits home insurers from raising premiums by more than ten percent without at least 60 days notice, bans “excessive or discriminatory” rates and gives the Illinois Department of Insurance more regulatory authority.

WPXN News notes…

Rankin townwide garage sales will take place Friday, May 15th and Saturday, May 16th.

The nonprofit group Jeremiah 33:6 will hold a free produce pantry and health fair on Friday, May 15th from 3-5 pm at the Roberts Gym in Roberts.

The Onarga American Legion will hold their fish fry on Friday, May 15th from 4:30-7 pm at the Legion Hall at Durham Park.

Gibson City’s Friday Night Under the Lights will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 15, featuring a car cruise, food vendors and live music downtown on Sangamon Avenue.

The Village of Rantoul will hold a clean up day on Saturday, May 16th from 8 to noon on Galaxy Drive.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their pork chop sandwich supper on Friday, May 22nd from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, May 23rd from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

(Springfield-jm)  As temperatures warm up in Central Illinois, the amount of time people spend outside also rises. But, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources is warning Illinoisans to leave young birds and other animals alone when they encounter them in the wild. Most of the time, human intervention does more harm than good and parents will usually stay away from nests and dens if humans are nearby.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Park District Board is now down by two members after their regular meeting last night. Matt Quinlan is resigning from the board.  The local board continues to look at filling it’s director position. Spring and Summer activities have started for the park district in Paxton. 

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate Education Committee unanimously approved a plan Tuesday to help schools alert first responders to emergencies faster. This bill requires public and private schools to consider using a mobile panic alert system for emergency and crisis response. Sponsors said the Illinois State Police will work with the State Board of Education and Emergency Management Agency to develop rules for the panic alert system. House Bill 5107 now heads to the Senate floor for further consideration. It received unanimous support in the House last month.

(Springfield–jc)  Tuesday the Illinois House adopted a resolution declaring June 2026 as Fallen First Responders Month in the State of Illinois in honor of all the firefighters, paramedics, and law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The resolution was sponsored by 37th district State Representative Patrick Sheehan,  Republican from Lockport…

37th district State Representative Patrick Sheehan, Republican from Lockport

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign County man was sentenced to 48 months of probation, nearly six months after pleading guilty to aggravated criminal sexual abuse of a child. Tyler Wilson-Hardy had been facing three separate counts of the Class 3 felony. But, Wilson-Hardy took a plea deal on November 24, 2025 that saw the other two counts he was facing dismissed.

(Chicago–jc)When the Obama Presidential Center opens in Chicago next month, it will feature the Nancy Pelosi Garden Pavilion. The Obama Foundation announced the tribute to the former U.S. House Speaker on Tuesday, thanks to a donation by philanthropist and business leader Ron Conway. Former President Barack Obama said in a statement that he would always be grateful for Pelosi’s support of the Affordable Care Act.

(Rantoul–jc)  If you see members of the Rantoul Paxton V F W post 67-50 on the street corner in Rantoul today, there is a very good reason. The local veterans post is fundraising for charities and a building project with the local V F W Post. Rantoul Paxton V F W Post 67-50 Spokesperson Joe Manka says the event stats at 7am …

Rantoul Paxton V F W Post Spokesperson Joe Manka

(The Center Square) – Illinois’ congressional district map is being challenged over what some argue are unconstitutional racial requirements for districts. A former Republican state representative sued Gov. J.B. Pritzker and the State Board of Elections late last week. Jeanne Ives, a former representative of the state’s 42nd district, brought the case backed by J. Christian Adams, president and general counsel of the Public Interest Legal Foundation. Filed in the U.S. District Court in the Central District of Illinois, the official complaint claims congressional maps drawn after the 2020 U.S. Census are unconstitutional.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation is starting a hiring initiative that aims to fill a nationwide shortage of engineers in return for paying student loan debt. The Higher Education Student Loan Repayment Assistance for Engineers Pilot Program will provide student loan repayment assistance in the form of an annual bonus of $15,000 a year. To be eligible, the engineer must be hired by IDOT on or after July 1, 2024, and work for the department for four continuous years. Payments will be capped at a total of $60,000 and begin once the engineer has worked at IDOT for at least four years.

(Springfield-jm) – A plan moving in the Illinois Senate could help people receive reminder notifications before court hearings. The bill would require pretrial service agencies to send two reminder text messages to people on pretrial release before their required court dates. It also states that pretrial services agencies must keep a copy of the message and a delivery receipt within their records. The legislation also calls for circuit clerks and the Office of the Statewide Pretrial Services to study the feasibility of sending automatic text message reminders to all people charged with a criminal offense. The report would be due to state lawmakers by December 31.

(Rantoul–jc)  The 20-25 to 20-26 school year is coming to a close this month. For students at St Malachy’s Catholic school in Rantoul its the final week with school and some activities says Director of Stewardship Venessa Martinez…

St Malachy Cathoic School Rantoul Director of Stewardship Venessa Martinez

(Vermilion County-jm) – Two special events are coming up at the War Museum in Danville. The first will be on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 16th. Admission will be free, and guests can tour and visit with reenactors and living history presenters at this annual event. For the War Museum’s First Saturday event on June 6th, it will be another free admission day and an opportunity to see the actual Medal of Honor awarded to Danville’s General John Charles Black. The program will begin at 1:00 p.m. and a reception will follow the brief presentation.

(The Center Square) – The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced that the state will pay $15,000 of eligible student loan debt annually for up to 50 new civil engineers who graduate from Illinois schools. I-DOT says payments will be capped at $60,000

The pilot program is the result of legislation proposed by State Sen. Ram Villivalam, D-Chicago, to address a downward trend in engineering graduates.

(Roberts–jc)  The 20-26 summer event event schedule sees a big Saturday for the village of Roberts on June 6th. It is the annual Roberts Fun Day. The day begins with a breakfast at 8am and has vendors, bingo, bounce houses, a silent auction to a live band from 7pm to 10pm. Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Jessa  Loveall says its a time to celebrate the town and its citizens…

Roberts Fun day Spokesperson Jessa Loveall

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois State Fair is bringing a night of heartfelt lyrics and high-energy folk rock to the Illinois Lottery Grandstand Stage, as four-time GRAMMY Award nominees The Avett Brothers perform on Thursday, August 20, 2026. Their 2009 major-label debut I and Love and You launched them into mainstream success.

WPXN News notes…

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Coffee and Connections on today from 8-9 am at the Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce office.

The Champaign Park District will hold a touch a truck at Sholem Park on Wednesday, May 13th from 4-7 pm.

Rankin townwide garage sales will take place Friday, May 15th and Saturday, May 16th.

The nonprofit group Jeremiah 33:6 will hold a free produce pantry and health fair on Friday, May 15th from 3-5 pm at the Roberts Gym in Roberts.

The Onarga American Legion will hold their fish fry on Friday, May 15th from 4:30-7 pm at the Legion Hall at Durham Park.

Gibson City’s Friday Night Under the Lights will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 15, featuring a car cruise, food vendors and live music downtown on Sangamon Avenue.

The Village of Rantoul will hold a clean up day on Saturday, May 16th from 8 to noon on Galaxy Drive.

Paxton Main Street, historical open houses, free to attend, will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 16th at the Ford County Historical Society’s Water Tower Museum, the old Ford County jail and sheriff’s residence, the Paxton Masonic Lodge No. 416, the old Paxton freight house, and the State Street Mall, where Royce Baier’s antique car collection can be viewed.

(Undated–jc)  Today’s windy weather could bring more dust storm issues in East Central Illinois. With the dryer conditions, and winds gusting to around 40 miles per hour can cause issues for motorists to farmers in the area. Area police remind the public to take extra caution with these conditions, today.

(Undated-jm) – Illinois is number one this year in a category most don’t want to be in. So far, the state has recorded 109 tornadoes. Mississippi is second at 76, Oklahoma 39 and Missouri is at 38. According to statistics from the Illinois State Climatologist, May and June are the peak period for tornadoes in the state.

(The Center Square) – The Illinois Housing Development Authority is accepting grant funding applications from local governments to address abandoned and deteriorated residential properties. The program offers grant opportunities of up to $750,000 to grantees for tackling challenging properties.

The agency says $22.1 million in assistance has been spent on more than 1,800 properties since the program began in 2020.

(Princeton–jc)  –One juvenile hostage is dead and a suspect is injured after police responded to a domestic disturbance call involving an armed subject and several hostages in Princeton on Sunday.Illinois State Police say state troopers provided perimeter security when Bureau County Sheriff’s officers and Princeton police entered a residence and shots were fired, striking the subject and one juvenile.

The juvenile was pronounced dead at a local hospital. The subject was hospitalized with gunshot wounds.

(Rantoul–jc)  The Rantoul Paxton VFW annual street collection fundraiser is set for Wednesday at the corner of Route 136 and Route 45 in the village. Funds raised help with donation projects, but will also help with a project at the VFW facility says Rantoul Paxton VFW Spokesperson Joe Manka…

Rantoul Paxton VFW Spokesperson Joe Manka. The fundraiser runs from 7am to 4pm at the corner of route 45 and 136.

(Champaign County-jm) – Hundreds of law enforcement agencies across Illinois, including the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office, will be taking part in a traffic law enforcement campaign centered around Memorial Day travel. The enforcement campaign, which runs from May 15 to May 26, is part of the “Click It or Ticket” campaign that emphasizes proper seat belt usage. In Champaign County, deputies will conduct high-visibility enforcement to look for violations of seat belt laws; people who fail to buckle up will be pulled over and ticketed.

(Paxton–jc)  The annual Draggin’ Main…Cruise on Market event is set with events from 8am until 8pm. A breakfast starts the day at Veteran’s Square in downtown Paxton. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper talks about several of the historical open houses set for 10am to 2pm on Saturday in the city…

Paxton MainsStreet Executive Director Donna Pepper. The Cruise officially starts at 3pm and runs through 8pm in Paxton

(Champaign-jm) – United Way of Champaign County has announced it raised $1 million through its Power of the Purse program. The organization held its 12th annual event raising over $127,000 to reach the milestone since the program's inception. The program provides local literacy grants for students through third grade.

(Loda–dm)-The Loda Sportsman’s Club is sponsoring their 2nd annual fishing Derby this Saturday May 16th starting at 10am. Loda Sportsman’s Club President Chad Riggleman has more information.

Loda Sportsman’s Club President Chad Riggleman.  For more information you can call Chad at 217-249-0650.

(Paxton–jc)  –  PaxtonCity leaders are expected to approve motor fuel tax road projects for the city when they meet tonight. The council is also looking to finalize the sale of a property at 404 South Market on Tuesday. A resolution in support of the Illinois America 250th is also on the agenda. The Paxton City Council meets at 7 tonight on the second floor of city hall. 

(Paxton–dm)-Springtime yard work is here and one thing you might do may not be the best for your yard.  Paxton Hardware and Renal owner Scott Allen explains.

Paxton Hardware and Rental Owner Scott Allen.  You can hear more from Scott Saturday moringa on Scott’s Tips for success

(The Center Square) – The average price for a gallon of diesel fuel in Illinois has gone over the $6 mark to $6.02 on Monday, according to AAA. The average price for regular unleaded dropped to $4.97 a gallon. One year ago, the average Illinois prices were $3.41 for unleaded and $3.53 for diesel..

(Springfield-jm) - The legal battle over how federal immigration agents can be investigated and charged by local prosecutors, namely Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke, won’t be resolved for a little while longer as a Cook County judge on Monday pushed off her scheduled ruling on whether to appoint a special prosecutor to oversee such cases. It comes in light of new developments. The judge said she will make a ruling on May 21st.

(Emmington–dm)-106th District State Representative Jason Bunting Republican from Emmington is announcing a summer reading program for students that live in the 106th District.

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting Republican from Emmington

(Peoria-jm) - OSF Healthcare Children’s Hospital of Illinois announced Monday they are ending a 50 year collaboration with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  OSF announced they are transitioning to operate independently as the OSF Healthcare Children’s Hospital of Illinois Cancer and Blood Disorders Institute in collaboration with University of Illinois College of Medicine faculty in Peoria. 

(USDA–dm)-Corn and soybean growing areas in the U.S. are perhaps one of the few crop locales not seeing significant drought cover to start the month of May. USDA’s Rod Bain has the story.

(Urbana-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff’s Office is still investigating a shooting that left a woman hurt last month. Crime Stoppers is now involved in the case in the hopes of finding new information to pass along to investigators. The shooting happened the morning of April 16 on Northwood Drive in Urbana Township. Investigators believe two groups of people were shooting at each other around 2 a.m. and stray bullets hit nearby cars and the innocent victim’s home. She was in bed when she was shot in the chest and arm. Responding deputies and EMS treated the 40-year-old victim at the scene and transported her to the hospital, where she received further treatment before being released. At this time, no arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing. The Champaign County Sheriff’s Office and Champaign County Crime Stoppers are looking for the public’s assistance in gathering more information about this incident.

(Springfield–jc)  –Products sold in Illinois are among those included in a national public health alert of possible salmonella contamination.The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service issued the alert for meat and poultry products containing FDA-regulated dairy ingredients. Culinary Circle Ultra Thin Crust Chicken Bacon Ranch products were sold in Illinois and eight other states. Other recalled products were sold nationwide. An updated list can be found on the USDA’s website.

(Melvin–dm)-After taking a year off the talent show is returning to the Ford County Fair this summer.  Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins has the information.

Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins.  The talent show is scheduled for Tuesday June 16th at 7pm

(WATSEKA,--dm)- Iroquois Home Health has received a 5-star patient survey rating from Medicare, recognizing the agency’s commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care to patients and families throughout the region.

The rating reflects patient survey results from the fourth quarter of 2025 and is part of Medicare’s quarterly star rating system. Iroquois Home Health has earned 5-star status for several quarters over the past few years, an achievement that remains unique among home health agencies in the local area. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services uses star ratings through Care Compare to help patients and families evaluate health care providers. CMS reports two types of home health star ratings: Quality of Patient Care Star Ratings and Patient Survey Star Ratings.

(The Center Square) – Opponents of a planned $20 billion data center project in Joliet say big tech money arrived before public oversight.

Real estate developer Hillwood and PowerHouse DataCenters say their investment in the Joliet Technology Center will bring thousands of construction jobs and long-term revenue to strengthen city services. The Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition held a press conference outside Joliet City Hall on Monday. Activists said Joliet’s planning commission and city council moved the 795-acre project forward in less than three weeks.

WPXN News notes…

Gibson City’s Friday Night Under the Lights will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 15, featuring a car cruise, food vendors and live music downtown on Sangamon Avenue.

The Village of Rantoul will hold a clean up day on Saturday, May 16th from 8 to noon on Galaxy Drive.

The Onarga American Legion Auxiliary will hold their poppy 5k on Saturday, May 23rd starting at 9 am.

The Champaign County Forest Preserve will hold Fishing for Beginners on Saturday, May 23rd from 9-11 am at Middlefork Forest Preserve.

Living Word Church of Roberts will hold a craft and vendor show on Monday, May 25th from 9-3 at the Paxton Civic Center.

(Springfield-jm) – A plan moving in the state capitol could require employers to pay people while they serve on a jury. The bill would require businesses with more than 25 workers to pay their employees the regular pay rate during jury duty. Sponsors say this is an attempt to address the financial disincentives that exist for potential jurors to serve. Federal courts pay jurors $50 per day. However, county courts provide a minimal rate. The National Federation of Independent Business opposes the plan, as they believe employees should be paid by the government for jury duty.

(Springfield-jm) – An Illinois bill could help speed up lead service line replacement. The state is currently in the process of replacing these hazardous pipes, but the project has faced some roadblocks. This plan ensures utility companies can access service lines located on private property at no cost to the property owner. It also expands who can authorize and perform the replacement. 

(Watseka–dm)- 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting Republican from Emmington tells us about a free Health Fair in Watseka on Wednesday June 10th 

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting Republican from Emmington

(Champaign-jm) – One person was hospitalized in serious condition after being stabbed multiple times in Champaign on Saturday. Officers with the Champaign Police Department responded to the report of a stabbing in the 1000 block of Crescent Drive. Once they arrived on-scene, officers found a 37-year-old victim with multiple stab wounds. Police investigated and soon learned that the stabbing happened in the 2600 block of West Springfield Avenue, a mile away. The victim fled looking for help, and eventually arrived at Crescent Drive. No arrests have been made.

(Paxton–dm)-The Ford County Board will hold their Monthly meeting tonight.  Items on the agenda include opening sealed bids for water way and terrace Maintenance on County Farms #2 an#3.  Discussion on compensation for the Ford County Sheriff and the Ford County Clerk. Also discussion on purchasing portable scales for the sheriff’s department..  Also possible action regarding township tax levy. The Meeting is scheduled for 6pm in the sheriff’s boardroom at the jail.

(USDA–dm)-What do some of the early weather indicators point to in the way of autumn time conditions, particularly during the months of harvest? Rod Bain has the story.    

(The Center Square) – Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, and Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, say more than 90 pieces of budget legislation will be consolidated and introduced as House Bill 131 and Senate Bill 2512. Welch and Harmon issued a joint statement saying the compiled language would ensure that all interested parties have time to review and offer thoughtful feedback. In previous years, Welch and Harmon have sponsored shell bills that were stuffed with line items and passed during the final hours of session.

(Illinois–dm)-The Illinois Federation of Teachers has released a “Mega Project, Mega Loss” calculator it says quantifies how much towns and schools stand to lose under megaprojects legislation in the General Assembly. The teachers union said the current bill signifies the largest transfer of responsibility for revenue to fund schools and services from private developers to individual property owners in the state’s history.

(Melvin–jc)  It’s time to release your talents at the Ford County Fair. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

(Paxton–jc)  City of Paxton leaders are expected to learn more about a state grant to repair the Clayton Haile walk bridge when they meet on Tuesday night. The city 

Was awarded a 250 thousand dollar grant for the safe routes to school grants administered by the state. The popular walk bridge has been closed for jus over one year pending structural repairs. The city council meets on Tuesday night. 

(The Center Square) – The U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals has returned a case involving an Illinois law banning electronic processing fees on taxes and tips to district court, citing the federal Comptroller of the Currency’s order issued last month to prevent the law from taking effect as scheduled July 1. The appellate court said the district court should address briefs filed by plaintiffs and the Comptroller of the Currency in favor of the order and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s contention that the Comptroller’s rule and order are invalid. The oral arguments scheduled for May 13 were cancelled.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate is moving forward with a plan to help you see fees included in your utility bill. The bill could require an online portal detailing utility charges to consumers, separate from delivery and supply charges. The website would include the laws that allow them to charge customers and break down what fees are paid to the state or kept by the utility company. 

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate unanimously passed a bill to require transparency for third party hotel booking websites to protect customers. Sponsors say many people use these sites thinking they are booking a room directly with the hotel, but they often find extra fees, errors or other issues after they pay. Some customers have even paid for rooms on third party sites and arrived at their destination to find out they never booked with the hotel. Illinois is the first state in the country to try and address the issue.

(Danville–jc)  With the school year in its final weeks throughout East Central Illinois and the state, the look ahead to what’s next is in the minds of high school graduates. The East Central Illinois Action Agency, based in Danville, has a program to help. East Central Illinois Action Agency Leading Family Coordinator Tori Brigham talks about their scholarship program for students in Vermilion, Iroquois and Ford Counties…

East Central Illinois Action Agency Leading Family Coordinator Tori Brigham

More information is found by contacting the agency in Danville

(St. Joseph-jm) – Illinois State Police Trooper Corey S. Thompsen, who died in the line of duty in October 2024, will soon have his name memorialized at a place near and dear to his family. The part of County Road 1900E that runs over I-74 will soon be called Trooper Corey S. Thompsen Memorial Overpass, after a resolution passed the State House last week.

(Gibson City–dm-Gibson City Council will hold their Monthly Meeting tonight.  Items on the agenda include the appointment of LeAnn Seymour to the Farmer’s Market Committee, consider a quote form K&K for prep and painting of flagpoles at city hall in the amount of $3900.  Also the council will consider a donation for the 250th celebration on July 11th, and approval of a TIF District between the City and Eric and Tammy Lundquist.  The meeting is scheduled to start at 7pm at the City Council Chambers.

(Rantoul–jc)  You will see members of the Rantoul Paxton V F W Post 67-50 at the corner of Route 45 and 136 on Wednesday from 7am to 4pm. The local service group will be gathering funds for a building project and their other charities says Rantoul Paxton V F W Post 67-50 Spokesperson Joe Manka…

Rantoul Paxton V F W Spokesperson Joe Manka

(The Center Square) – A Democratic state senator says the federal government is to blame for 150,000 Illinoisans losing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, but a Republican senator says Illinois’ high error rate for payments will cost the state hundreds of millions of dollars. During an Illinois Senate Revenue Committee hearing recently, state Sen. Don DeWitte, R-St. Charles, asked state Sen. Lakesia Collins, D-Chicago, why she thought 150,000 Illinoisans lost federal food assistance. DeWitte said the Illinois Department of Human Services director suggested during a budget hearing the night before that federal cuts were not the reason, but instead it was because people no longer qualify.

(Paxton–jc)  Ford Count leaders will start the process to hire a new Ford County Emergency Management Agency Coordinator this week. Current Ford County Emergency Management Agcncy Coordinator Terry Whitebird stepped down from the position he has held since 20-19. Whitebird has served as an emergency official in the area for over 20 years. No timetable for a new appointment was provided

(Illinois–dm)-Illinois fuel prices dipped slightly on Friday, according to AAA.

The average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $4.99, down less than a penny from the day before. The average price for diesel is $5.98. The national averages are $4.55 for unleaded and $5.67 for diesel.

(Springfild–jc)  Illinois Department of Transportation says it will distribute $12 million in federal funds for 68 Safe Routes to School projects around the state.

The projects include 49 thousand dollars to the town of St Joseph and 50 thousand dollars to the town of Tolono for community travel plans. The village of Rantoul received 250 thousand dollars for sidewalk and route repair on streets around J W Eater Junior High in the village. The city of Pontiac also received 250 thousand dollars for streets around schools. The 250 thousand dollar grant to Paxton for the Clayton Haile walk bridge was also part of the grant program Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office said the projects range from improving neighborhood infrastructure near schools to supporting community educational and safety programs.

WPXN news notes…

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Coffee and Connections on Wednesday, May 13th from 8-9 am at the Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce office.

The Champaign Park District will hold a touch a truck at Sholem Park on Wednesday, May 13th from 4-7 pm.

Rankin townwide garage sales will take place Friday, May 15th and Saturday, May 16th.

The nonprofit group Jeremiah 33:6 will hold a free produce pantry and health fair on Friday, May 15th from 3-5 pm at the Roberts Gym in Roberts.

The Onarga American Legion will hold their fish fry on Friday, May 15th from 4:30-7 pm at the Legion Hall at Durham Park.

Gibson City’s Friday Night Under the Lights will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 15, featuring a car cruise, food vendors and live music downtown on Sangamon Avenue.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate passed a bill Thursday to create new protections for students sexually assaulted by their peers. The plan would require any student who commits sexual assault or attempted sexual assault at school, a school-sponsored event, or related activities to be expelled for at least one year. The plan passed out of the Senate on a 48-3 vote with two senators voting present. Senate Bill 939 now moves to the House for further consideration.

(Springfield–jc) –April is annually recognized as National Child Abuse Prevention Month to highlight the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect, as the prevention services developed by this cooperation can help parents, caregivers, and communities protect children and strengthen families.104th District State Representative Brandun Schweitzer, Republican from Danville sponsored the resolution…

104th District State Representative Brandun Schweitzer, Republican from Danville

The resolution was approved by the Adoption and Child Welfare Committee , and now heads on to the full House.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois House Mental Health & Addiction Committee unanimously passed a bill Thursday to improve access to suicide prevention services. Sponsors said 988 information should be visible in county shelter care homes, daycares, public libraries, colleges, hospitals, assisted living facilities and nursing homes. The bill also requires school boards to include age-appropriate suicide prevention curriculum in health courses for students in sixth through 12th grade.

(Loda–dm)-The Loda Sportsman Club will hold their 2nd annual fishing derby on Saturday May 16th.  Loda Sportsman Club President Chad Riggleman has the details.

Loda Sportsman Club President Chad Riggleman.  If you don’t have a fishing pole there will be loaners available.

(Undated–jm) – Traffic on I-57 southbound had to be rerouted Thursday afternoon. Traffic was detoured off I-57 at Buckley and routed down Route 45 to Paxton to get back onto the interstate. 

USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey goes over notable state corn planting progress for the period ending May 3.

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Parkland College is strengthening its long-standing automotive training partnerships through a new apprenticeship collaboration with Sam Leman Automotive Group, supporting workforce development efforts in the Champaign region. Beginning in Bloomington-Normal and Peoria, the Sam Leman Automotive Group has since expanded into the Champaign area in recent years through the acquisition of two existing dealerships.  Sam Leman Automotive has partnered with Parkland College to develop talent pipelines for its newest locations in Champaign Urbana

(Springfield–jc)  The Illinois State Fair has scheduled a free concert with southern rock band .38 Special on August  17th. No ticket is required, but attendees must go through security screening before entering the grandstand.

Gates open at 7 p.m. on August 17th. The state fair is scheduled from Aug. 13th through the 23rd.

(Springfield-jm) – A plan moving in the Illinois House could allow not-for-profit fire departments to receive state grant funding. Many nonprofit fire departments in central and southern Illinois are currently unable to receive grant funding for equipment and building upgrades since the state only provides grants to municipal fire departments. This bill allows the State Fire Marshal to create and award grants for not-for-profit fire departments and protection districts across the state. Sponsors said this change could help ensure these departments have the resources needed to protect residents safely and effectively. Senate Bill 2645 passed unanimously out of the House Police & Fire Committee Thursday morning. The measure now moves to the House floor for further consideration.

USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey goes over notable state corn planting progress for the period ending May 3.

(Springfield-jm) — An Illinois Senate committee approved a bill to help local governments lower their default speed limit to enhance safety, as communities would be able to adopt lower speed limits through resolutions or ordinances. The statutory speed limit in Illinois is 30 miles per hour in urban districts, but many people frequently speed into or through cities. IDOT wants to give local governments the ability to lower the default speed limit from 30 miles per hour to 25 miles per hour without conducting speed studies that cost roughly $20,000. The plan could also allow communities to lower the speed limits in residential areas to 20 miles per hour and 10 miles per hour for alleys.

(Paxton-jm) — Paxton first responders were called to a two vehicle accident just north of town Thursday afternoon. It happened on Route 45 at 500 north about 4:30. There’s no word on if there were any injuries.

(Gibson City–dm)-Gibson City will host their  car cruze on Friday May 15th.  Event Spokesperson Susie Tongate has more information.

Event Spokesperson Susie Tongate

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois lawmakers are still batting around a variety of budget ideas with just a few weeks left in the legislative session. 

The state remains on track to take in more revenue than originally expected this year, which provides wiggle room —though not much — for lawmakers in the budgeting process. But there remains contention about what the budget should look like, not just between the parties but also between factions of Democrats, with some demanding hefty tax increases beyond what the governor has proposed.

The Illinois Revenue Alliance, a group of progressive lawmakers and organizations such as the Chicago Teachers Union, want to raise nearly $4 billion to increase funding for social services. They’d do that by creating new taxes and eliminating tax credits, but the governor hasn’t embraced any of the proposals, which are viewed as longshots. 

(Cissna Park-jm) – Ten students were recently named Illinois FFA Top 10 Chapter Presidents, recognizing their excelling role as an FFA leader.  Among the top 10 is Trent Schmidt of Cissna Park FFA. The students will be recognized during the 2026 Illinois FFA State Convention.

(Gibson City–jc) – One Ford County restaurant has announced its closing as of May 17th. The Horsch Radish Restaurant in downtown Gibson City, has been in operation since 20-22 after taking over for the Bayern Stube. The restaurant group is looking for some enterprise to take over the building space in downtown Gibson City 

(Undated–jc)  Unemployment rates are on the rise in the area and state. WPXN”s Joel Cluver has the numbers…

(Paxton–jc)  The Ford County Finance committee will look at compensation for two county office holders when they meet this morning in Paxton. Those two offices are the Ford County Sheriff and The Ford County Circuit Clerk. Another topic tomorrow morning is budgeting for the Ford County Public Building Commission. The meeting starts at 10am at the courthouse in Paxton . 

(Springfield–jc)  –Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs has announced transition plans for the state’s retirement savings program for private-sector workers.

Frerichs said Illinois Secure Choice will become My Illinois Savings next month and will feature lower fees and technology improvements. The treasurer’s office said no contributions, withdrawals or transactions will be processed during the transition from 3 p.m. on June 11 through June 14. 

WPXN News notes…

The River Valley Church of Christ in Fisher will hold their free garage sale on Friday, May 8th and Saturday, May 9th. Hours both days are 7-noon.

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their Friday Supper on Friday, May 8th from 4:30-7:30pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, May 8th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10.

The Harvest Moon Twin Drive In will hold their Spring Fling Craft and Vendor Show Mother’s Day Market on Saturday, May 9th from 9-2.

Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley High School’s third annual Greenhouse Plant Sale & CTE Expo is set for 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at the high school’s greenhouse in Gibson City.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Coffee and Connections on Wednesday, May 13th from 8-9 am at the Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce office.

The Champaign Park District will hold a touch a truck at Sholem Park on Wednesday, May 13th from 4-7 pm.

Rankin townwide garage sales will take place Friday, May 15th and Saturday, May 16th.

The nonprofit group Jeremiah 33:6 will hold a free produce pantry and health fair on Friday, May 15th from 3-5 pm at the Roberts Gym in Roberts.

(Springfield-jm) - Illinois House Republicans want to be brought to the table to negotiate stronger property tax relief included in the state's megaprojects bill. House Democrats celebrated "historic" property tax relief included in the Chicago Bears-endorsed payment in lieu of the tax plan they passed last month. Representative Kam Buckner said the state would use half of the revenue for property tax relief for Illinois families. Sixty percent of that funding would go to the local community with a megaproject and the remaining 40% could be invested in the statewide property tax relief fund that lawmakers haven't funded since it was created over five years ago. However, the governor's office says a potential $20 million payment for a megaproject would only provide an average homeowner $1.29 in property tax relief. GOP leaders also hope to reinstate the Illinois property tax relief grant program that helped schools reduce tax levies. Republican representative Dan Ugaste stressed the program could've provided $3.5 billion in relief last year, but the policy could save taxpayers $82 billion over 21 years.

(Springfield-jm) – State lawmakers are considering a bill that could give hospital workers easier access to healthcare. This comes as many providers struggle to receive healthcare because of high insurance premiums coming out of their paychecks. Representative Kelly Cassidy hopes to cap the out-of-pocket insurance cost for healthcare workers to 10% of the premium cost. Resident physicians told the House Insurance Committee Tuesday that this change could ensure they have more resources to take care of themselves while working in Illinois. Hospitals violating the policy would be required to pay $500 fines to the Department of Public Health for each impacted covered employee.

(Rantoul–jc)  Village of Rantoul officials say an error was made in the property tax bills for its residents. The bills being mailed to those in the village are about 70 cents higher. That means about 300 dollars more for a house valued at 125 thousand dollars. Property owners will be reimbursed that difference in the property tax procedures this year.

(Springfield–jc)  51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet, has filed a new bill in the Illinois Senate to repeal the struggling Safe-T-Act. Rose says some common sense needs to be placed back into the legal system…

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet

(Normal–jc)  - Illinois State University has been notified that the AFSCME Local 1110 membership ratified the tentative agreement reached by the two sides on Monday. With this ratification, all AFSCME 1110-represented employees are expected to return to work  this morning.  Illinois State University President Aondover Tarhule says he is pleased the two sides got together for a new contract

The new deal provides a higher wage structure for union members, retroactive pay to July of last year and “better of” campus wage program language.

(Urbana-jm) – A Champaign man and his friend were stopped by police over the weekend after the Champaign man’s ex-girlfriend reported he shot at her. Then, the two were arrested after police found suspected drugs in their possession. The Urbana Police Department said officers responded to the 1200 block of Ellis Dr. around 11 a.m. for a domestic-related incident on Sunday. After speaking with the alleged victim, police learned that she had been backing out of her driveway when her ex-boyfriend, identified by police as 34-year-old Wesley King of Champaign, fired a gun in her direction. The department added that in addition to the preliminary charge of aggravated discharge of a firearm King is facing, he was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.

(Rantoul–jc)  The Spring and Summer weather is coming sooner than you think, and The  Community Service Center, based in Rantoul is an option for those needing utility bill help. Community Service Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford says they are the group to help with Li-Heap…

Rantoul Community Service Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford

(Champaign–jc)  A status hearing is set for May 20th for a Champaign County man accused of killing another person in Champaign last week. Charles Haynes appeared in court Tuesday morning. The judge in the case ordered Haynes to remain in the county jail until the status hearing on the 20th.

(Paxton–jc)  –  The Ford County Highway committee will look to put a resolution forward for a Dix Township Bridge when they meet on Wednesday morning in Roberts. An aid petition for Patton Township and a country transportation agreement are also topics for the meeting tomorrow morning. 

(Washington–jc)  It’s May and the spring planting season continues at a fast pace, weather permitting. Brad Rippey has the numbers around the state and nation…

(The Center Square) – The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus is urging Gov. J.B. Pritzker to reverse his proposed budget cut to local governments. The mayors say Pritzker’s plan to reduce the Local Government Distributive Funds represents an estimated $60 million loss to local governments statewide. Several city mayors have a press conference set for Wednesday in Springfield.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois is one step closer to requiring private insurance companies to cover seizure detection devices. There are currently multiple devices approved by the FDA to alert people of oncoming or ongoing seizures. Sponsors say these tools can cost anywhere between $250 to $2,000. This bill requires insurance companies to provide coverage for medically necessary devices with a maximum cost-sharing amount of $50 per year. The Illinois Life and Health Insurance Council opposes the plan, as they argue it is difficult to see how private insurance can cover the cost if the state cannot absorb the price in its own health plan. Senate Bill 2762 passed out of the House Insurance Committee on a partisan 10-5 vote Tuesday.

(Champaign–jc)  Parkland College has launched its first healthcare registered apprenticeship in partnership with Gibson Area Hospital, creating a new pathway for students to become certified surgical technologists while earning income.

 The new apprenticeship program focuses on the occupation of surgical technologist and combines academic instruction with paid, hands-on clinical Surgical technology experience. Apprentices will spend two years at Parkland College completing an Associate in Applied Science degree in surgical technology in preparation for national certification.To complete the apprenticeship, participants will spend an additional six months working full time at Gibson Area Hospital, further developing their skills in a real-world healthcare setting.

(Danville-jc)  The East Central IllinoisCommunity  Action Agency provides a wide variety of help for those in need in Vermilion Ford and Iroquois Counties. East Central Illinois Community Action Agency Leading Family Coordinator  Tori Brigham says they have “transportation” help…

East Central Illinois Community Action Agency Leading Family Coordinator Tori Brigham

(Rantoul-jm) – The Village of Rantoul took to social media Tuesday, saying the property tax rate posted on residents’ bills is higher than it should be by about 70 cents. Village officials say the difference amounts to about a $315 difference for the owner of a $150,000 home. Officials said the mistake was discovered after bills were finalized and sent out. They also said taxpayers will be paid back the amount owed to them after their first property tax bill payment.

(Roberts–jc)  Roberts Fun Day is set for Saturday June 6th in and around the Roberts Gym in the village. The day will see a morning breakfast, bounce houses, food trucks and music too. Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Jessa Loveall talks about the night time band…

Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Jessa Loveall. WPXN will be stopping by the event as part of our Summer Fun Tour on June 6th.

(Urbana–jc)  – He’s back. One former University of Illinois graduate and basketball player is now back at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. 

U of I officials say they have hired Tom Michael as the administrative officer for the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics at the U of I. Michael had been with Eastern Illinois University for the past 12 years as Athletic Director.  Michael played basketball for the University of Illinois  from 1991 to 1994

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce is set for its annual Golf Outing. The “Fore the Movies” themed scramble golf outing is set for Friday June 12th at Lakeview Country Club in Loda. Registration starts at 11am with a tee time of noon. Chamber officials urge players to dress up with “golf” movie themed attire.  Contact the local chamber for more information. 

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Church of Christ is ready to host the public for the 75th annual National Day of Prayer on Thursday. The local Paxton event is set for 8am to 8pm at the Church of Christ on Paxton’s west side along Route 9 says Church spokesperson Sherry Heiser…

Paxton Church of Christ Day of Prayer Spokesperson Sherry Heiser. There is no program, just a day of prayer. A similar prayer event is set for Cissna Park on Thursday

(The Center Square) – Experts in artificial intelligence spoke to state lawmakers recently, providing guidance on four bills introduced in the House, which would regulate and unlock legal remedies against A-I companies, platforms and products.

The new legislation may bring more federal scrutiny to Illinois if lawmakers pass the bills. A repeated point of contention for the proposed regulations was the patchwork of legislation varying state-to-state stifles innovation nationwide.

In December 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to prevent such a patchwork. A federal task force will look to provide uniform guidance for A-I companies.

Danville, IL, May 5, 2026 – The Danville Symphony Orchestra (DSO) concludes its 2025-26 season with Heroes at the Dick Van Dyke Auditorium.

On Saturday, May 16 at 7:30 pm, Maestro Matthew Sheppard will conduct the DSO in its final concert of the season, featuring two heroic and passionate classical works, including Alexander Borodin’s triumphant Symphony No. 2, the “Heroic Symphony.”

WPXN News notes…

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Coffee and Connections on Wednesday, May 13th from 8-9 am at the Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce office.

The Champaign Park District will hold a touch a truck at Sholem Park on Wednesday, May 13th from 4-7 pm.

Rankin townwide garage sales will take place Friday, May 15th and Saturday, May 16th.

The nonprofit group Jeremiah 33:6 will hold a free produce pantry and health fair on Friday, May 15th from 3-5 pm at the Roberts Gym in Roberts.

The Onarga American Legion will hold their fish fry on Friday, May 15th from 4:30-7 pm at the Legion Hall at Durham Park.

Gibson City’s Friday Night Under the Lights will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, May 15, featuring a car cruise, food vendors and live music downtown on Sangamon Avenue.

(Springfield-jm) – The Trump Administration’s lawsuits seeking access to sensitive voter registration data in Illinois and dozens of other states is one part of a broader effort to purge state voter rolls of suspected non-citizens, according to documents filed recently in federal court in Springfield. Those documents were filed by attorneys representing the Illinois AFL-CIO and other groups that have intervened in the case seeking to prevent the Department of Justice from obtaining the information. They say it proves the agency’s stated reasons for seeking the data-to determine whether Illinois is complying with voter list maintenance requirements-is only a pretext and the agency’s suit against the state should be dismissed. Illinois refused to hand over an unredacted voter registration list and only provided the DOJ with electronic copies of partially redacted files that do not include sensitive information such as dates of birth, driver’s license numbers or partial Social Security numbers. That prompted the DOJ to file a suit seeking unredacted files. Similar suits have already been dismissed in six other states and no court has yet ruled in favor of the DOJs request for access to the unredacted voter files.

(Undated-jm) — Strong winds caused blowing dust Monday afternoon. Dust storm warnings were issued for some areas as winds gusting over 30 mph caused blowing dust leading to reduced visibilities. 

(Springfield–dm)-89th District Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie Republican from Savannah recently held a news conference to discuss the failures of Illinois' Safety Act, and what Republicans are trying to do to repeal the Safety Act.

89th District Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie Republican from Savannah

(The Center Square) – Four people from California are charged in connection with a conspiracy to burglarize pharmacies and distribute controlled substances in southern Illinois and across the country. The defendants are accused of burglarizing pharmacies in Bethalto, Maryville, Lebanon, Breese and Neoga in July 2024.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois said three of the four defendants are in custody, but Idani Johnson, 34, of Compton, California remains at large.

(Champaign-jm) - Champaign Police have made an arrest in connection to a deadly shooting Friday evening. Police arrested 21 year old Charles Haynes in connection to the shooting death of 33 year old Aaron Sibley. Sibley was found shot in the 500 block of East Columbia Avenue. Haynes is charged with four counts of first degree murder. 

(Urbana-jm) – A Savoy man has died following a crash in Urbana Saturday. Champaign County Coroner Laurie Brauer identified the victim as 39 year old John Goeken of Savoy. Goeken was driving a motorcycle on Lincoln Avenue when it collided with a vehicle Saturday afternoon. The driver of the other vehicle was also taken to the hospital.

(Onarga–dm)-The Onarga American Legion Auxiliary will be sponsoring their Poppy 5k-run-walk on Saturday May 23rd. Onarga Legion Auxiliary Poppy 5k Run Spokesperson Kaitlin Fink has more information.

Onarga American Legion Auxiliary Poppy 5k Run Spokesperson Kaitlin Fink,  You can get more information on the Onarga American Legion Auxiliary Facebook page

(Champaign County–jc)  A portion on Interstate 57 was closed early this morning due to a vehicle crash in the area. The crash occurred just after midnight this morning at mile marker 238. Traffic was rerouted for several hours. Traffic in the area is back to normal at this time

(Chicago–jc)  AAA says gas prices continued to rise over the weekend, with the Illinois average for regular unleaded at $4.93 per gallon  this morning. Friday’s price was $4.86. The average Illinois price for diesel is now $6 per gallon.

The national averages are $4.46 for unleaded and $5.64 for diesel.

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Parkland College is launching a new healthcare pre-apprenticeship program this summer designed to prepare individuals for in-demand careers in the healthcare industry while creating a strong pipeline into registered apprenticeship and degree pathways. The program will provide participants age 16–24 with foundational skills, hands-on learning experiences, and career exploration opportunities healthcare pre-apprenticeship in healthcare settings.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois is maintaining high childhood vaccination rates. The state's newly-updated School Vaccination Coverage Dashboard shows coverage rates for school-required childhood immunizations are holding steady compared to last year. All but one of those immunizations is above the state's 95% coverage goal to prevent the spread of infectious disease. The Illinois Department of Public Health puts together the dashboard every year using data provided to the Illinois State Board of Education by PreK-12 schools and school districts.  The dashboard tracks immunization rates in the current school year for eleven school-required childhood vaccinations at more than 4,600 Illinois schools. Data from the updated dashboard shows that immunization rates are slightly higher than the previous school year for ten of those eleven vaccines. The only exception is hepatitis B, which was only 0.03% lower than a year earlier. That 95% threshold is seen as optimal to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

(Normal–jc)  During the sixth meeting with a federal mediator on Monday,  Illinois State University and AFSCME Local 1110 reached a tentative agreement.

No details of the agreement will be released until after ratification has been completed.

(Cissna Park–dm)- The Cissna Park Business Development Board will be hosting an informational meeting tonight at the Cissna Park Family Restaurant beginning at 6pm.  The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the possibility of creating a Park District in Cissna Park. Cissna Park Business  Development  Board member Todd Kaeb has more information.

Cissna Park Business Development Board Member Todd Kaeb.

(Champaign-jm) – The 16 year old suspect in last week’s shooting at Champaign’s Schnucks was denied pretrial release Monday. Daelon Walton was ordered to remain in custody until his trial in connection to the shooting of an 18 year old. Walton is charged with a felony charge of aggravated battery with a firearm. If convicted  he faces 6-30 years in prison.

(Urbana-jm) – The Urbana Police Department is looking for help through Crime Stoppers in solving an armed robbery and shooting that happened in December. The shooting happened at the Circle K gas station at 507 West University Avenue. At 10:44 p.m. on Christmas Eve, a man entered the station’s convenience store, pointed a black and silver handgun at the employee and demanded that he open the cash register. During the incident, the suspect battered and shot the employee several times. The suspect stole personal items from the employee before he fled in a white pickup truck he had previously stolen from the 1900 block of North Cunningham Avenue in Urbana. The truck was later recovered by officers, but the suspect was not located. The Circle K employee received medical treatment for their injuries and was later released from the hospital. The suspect is described as a light-skinned Black male, approximately six feet tall and wearing all black attire.

(Paxton–dm)--Do you have a 2 car garage, but your car sits outside because there’s not enough room for the cars?  Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen has an idea on how to open up your garage

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) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul says he is pleased that a federal court stated it will approve a $700 million settlement in a multi-state antitrust lawsuit against Google. Raoul joined a bipartisan group of 53 attorneys general in 2021 who sued Google for illegally dominating Android app distribution and for charging consumers up to 30% per transaction.

(Springfield–jc)  –The Illinois Housing Development Authority is inviting public input for the 2027 Illinois Housing Blueprint to shape housing policy and investment. Residents can take an online survey and attend one of eleven listening sessions. The first two listening sessions are scheduled Wednesday in Belleville and Thursday in Marion.

(Springfield–jc)  – The Illinois State Fair 100 Days Out event is scheduled today from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Reisch Pavilion on the state fairgrounds.

Parking and admission are free for the event, with food and drinks available for purchase from fair vendors. The Illinois State Fair is scheduled from Aug 13-23 in Springfield.

(Paxton–jc)  The Ford County Board is set to meet this afternoon in Paxton to look at the county’s clerk and recorder position. Due to a retirement, the position is officially vacant. The board will look at its options at the 4-30 meeting this afternoon at the courthouse. The board may also appoint Emily Latiz to the Ford County Zoning Board of Appeals. 

WPXN News notes…

The River Valley Church of Christ in Fisher will hold their free garage sale on Friday, May 8th and Saturday, May 9th. Hours both days are 7-noon.

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their Friday Supper on Friday, May 8th from 4:30-7:30pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, May 8th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10.

The Harvest Moon Twin Drive In will hold their Spring Fling Craft and Vendor Show Mother’s Day Market on Saturday, May 9th from 9-2.

Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley High School’s third annual Greenhouse Plant Sale & CTE Expo is set for 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at the high school’s greenhouse in Gibson City.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Coffee and Connections on Wednesday, May 13th from 8-9 am at the Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce office.

The Champaign Park District will hold a touch a truck at Sholem Park on Wednesday, May 13th from 4-7 pm.

(Undated-jm) – Thirty six schools from the Chicago area to Southern Illinois were put on notice Thursday afternoon. The Department of Justice announced it was launching investigations into the content in their classrooms. The DOJ is looking into whether gender ideology or sexual orientation content is making it into curriculums, as well as whether or not schools are segregating sports and intimate spaces based on gender at birth. Among those being looked into is the Bloomington Public School District, Iroquois County Community Unit School District and the Ridgeview School District.

(Springfield–dm)-51st District Republican State Senator Chapin Rose recently held a press conference to discuss his new piece of legislation called Senate Bill 4196. This bill would make changes to the SAFE-T Act and repeal recent laws from Governor Pritzker regarding ICE in Illinois. 

51st District Republican State Senator Chapin Rose

(Champaign-jm) – It was a violent week in Champaign last week. On Tuesday, an 18 year old was shot in the Schnucks parking lot on the city’s west side. On Friday, a man was stabbed in the Walmart parking lot on North Prospect Avenue then that evening, police responded to a person shot in the 500 block of East Columbia Avenue. The victim, 33 year old Aaron Sibley was pronounced dead at Carle Foundation Hospital. Anyone with information on any of the crimes are asked to call Champaign Police.

(Roberts–dm)-Friday May 15th Jeremiah 33:6 will be holding a free produce pantry and health fair at the RobertsVillage Gym.. Jeremiah 33:6 spokesperson Valarie Wright tells us about a free A-1-C test that will be available that day.

Jeremiah 33:6 spokesperson Valarie Wright.  The Produce pantry and Health fair is free to anyone, regardless of income.

(Sadorus-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff's Office is asking the public for help after someone stole over $8,000 worth of soybean seeds from a property in April. According to the sheriff's office, it happened in rural Tolono Township near Sadorus on April 24. Officers responded to the area of County Roads 600 North and 700 East for reports of stolen agricultural materials. According to police, the victim reported two large boxes of soybean seeds with an estimated value of around $8,200 missing from a shed on their property. The sheriff's office is asking for the community's help in gathering information related to the incident. The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made.

(Iroquois County–dm)-The Ford/Iroquois County Farm Bureau is sponsoring Camp 911 to 3rd graders in the area.  Ford County Farm Bureau Manager Casey Claire explains what Camp 911 is.

Ford Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Casey Claire 

Illinois gas prices have risen by an average of more than 50 cents per gallon in the last week. According to AAA, the average price for regular unleaded was $4.86 on Friday, up from $4.30 one week before and $4.67 on Thursday. The average Illinois price one year ago was $3.40.

Illinois Farm Bureau President Philip Nelson is urging the U.S. Senate to swiftly pass the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026. The House approved the bill by a vote of 224 to 200 on Thursday. The legislation updates funding levels for crop insurance and price support, disaster assistance, risk management programs, operation and marketing loans, and federal agricultural research.

(Normal–jm) – Illinois State University administrators said they’re willing to negotiate in good faith with striking workers after Governor JB Pritzker urged the two sides to return to the bargaining table. A sixth session with the federal mediator is scheduled for today at 11 a.m., which would be the second meeting since about 350 dining, building services, and grounds employees went on strike over salary April 8. No agreement was reached during an April 15 bargaining session, and no talks have been held since then. The administration said it contacted the federal mediator Thursday morning about resuming negotiations. According to ISU’s webpage, the most contentious issues include AFSCME’s demand that union workers receive the same or greater pay increases than non-union employees, and that pay increases should be retroactive to July 1, 2025.

(Springfield–jc)  – After a proposed state constitutional amendment on redistricting did not advance this week, the timing will not see a redistricting question on the November ballot. 89th District and Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombe says the latest power grab attempt by the democrats, has failed…

89th District and Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombe Republican from Savannah

(Savoy-jm) – United Airlines has postponed its launch of service to Chicago O'Hare from the University of Illinois-Willard Airport. Fly Champaign-Urbana said the postponement is due to the FAA capping flights at O'Hare. The service is now expected to start on Oct. 25, after it was previously set to begin June 1. Willard Airport announced in January that United Airlines would launch the service at the facility. Customers affected by the change or who need more information about their booked flights can visit United's website or call 1-800-825-9925.

(Chicago–jc)  Illinois Governor. J.B. Pritzker says he looks forward to resuming public events soon after he underwent a medical procedure on Friday.

The governor’s deputy chief of staff for communications, Matt Hill, said in a statement provided to The Center Square that Pritzker completed a routine outpatient urology procedure. Hill said the governor would fulfill his duties but pause public events for the next week while he rests.

(Urbana-jm) – The man already convicted of a deadly drunk crash in Urbana last year saw his trial on federal charges pushed back to September. Julio Cucul-Bol appeared in court via Zoom for a previously scheduled status hearing in the federal case against him. The federal charges against Bol, an undocumented immigrant from Guatemala, consist of making false statements on a bank application, possessing a false green card and a false Social Security card, and false use of a passport. Prosecutors allege that Bol used an alias to obtain these documents and in an application to JPMorgan Chase Bank. The documents and banking statements with the alias were found in the wreckage of Bol’s Mitsubishi Outlander the night of the deadly crash on January 19, 2025. Urbana Police determined that he got behind the wheel drunk and rear-ended a Honda Civic at University and Coler Avenues, killing 21-year-old Chloe Polzin of Deerfield and 20-year-old Katherine Abraham of Glenview. He was sentenced to 30 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for aggravated DUI causing death and leaving the scene of a deadly crash.

(USDA–dm)-What weather conditions where during the month of May, may be of concern for crop growers with planting and plant establishment occurring? USDA’s Rod Bain has the story

(The Center Square) – A new Civic Federation report has identified a persistent structural imbalance in the Illinois budget, with expenditures projected to grow faster than core revenues. The Chicago-based government research organization examined how Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s budget proposal for fiscal year 2027 advances the state’s goals for financial stability. The report said Illinois’ fiscal position is likely to weaken unless the state adopts policy changes to better align revenues and expenditures, support stronger economic growth and expand the tax base.

(Champaign–jc)  – The Illinois Flash Index of Economic Growth for April continued its gradual decline falling to 101-point-zero compared to its 101-point-two level in March. The reading one year ago was a bit higher still. 

While the Illinois economy is still growing, the Illinois unemployment rate has diverged from the national rate. In July and August of last year, both rates stood at 4-point-three percent–a rare occurrence for Illinois. Now the Illinois' unemployment  rate is   5-point-One percent while the national rate is still at 4-point-three percent.

(Paxton–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Picket Fence Florist in downtown Paxton. Owner Dawn Mertes says they are ready for a wide variety of gifts for Mom for Mother’s Day…

She says they also have candy bouquets……

Picket Fence Florist downtown Paxton Owner Dawn Mertes.

You can order Mom’s Flowers and more on line or call Picket Fence Florist at 217-379-4245

Picket Fence Florist downtown Paxton is the WPXN Business of the Day, t

WPXN News notes…

The St. Joseph Township-Swearingen Memorial Library is having a used book sale  Monday, May 4th through Wednesday, May 27th.  All sales are by donation to the library.

The River Valley Church of Christ in Fisher will hold their free garage sale on Friday, May 8th and Saturday, May 9th. Hours both days are 7-noon.

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their Friday Supper on Friday, May 8th from 4:30-7:30pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, May 8th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10.

The Harvest Moon Twin Drive In will hold their Spring Fling Craft and Vendor Show Mother’s Day Market on Saturday, May 9th from 9-2.

Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley High School’s third annual Greenhouse Plant Sale & CTE Expo is set for 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at the high school’s greenhouse in Gibson City.

(Springfield-jm) – A state board unanimously voted Thursday to approve a 204 page report detailing its investigation into misconduct by on-duty federal immigration agents amid Operation Midway Blitz. It is also sending letters to local law enforcement agencies for potential prosecution of the agents. The Illinois Accountability Commission, created by Governor J-B Pritzker was tasked with forming a public record to document the impact of the federal immigration campaign on Chicago communities, but also to produce recommendations for  harm reduction and prevention of future abuses. 

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced Thursday that unemployment is up slightly from February, despite the state adding more than 8,000 jobs in March. The data shows that the unemployment rate was 5.1 percent in March.

(Springfield–dm)-Illinois Republican House Minority Leader Tony McCombie recently held a press conference to talk about the  failures of Illinois’ Safety Act.

Illinois Republican House Minority Leader Tony McCombie.

(Champaign-jm) - A 16 year old has been arrested in connection with a shooting at a Champaign grocery store earlier this week. Champaign Police made the arrest Thursday morning. The suspect was arrested on preliminary charges of aggravated battery with a firearm. The teen is accused of opening fire on an 18 year old in the Schnucks parking lot Tuesday night.

(Champaign-jm) – An on ramp to I-57 in Champaign will be closed for about two weeks. IDOT announced the on ramp to southbound I–57 from Olympian Drive will close for approximately two weeks beginning Monday, May 4th. IDOT says the work involves tying all new ramps and bridges with permanent connections. Additional closures, taking up to four weeks each, are also scheduled throughout the summer.

(Cissna Park–jc)  –Thursday May 7th is the 75th National Day of Prayer. There are several events set for the area. In Cissna Park, the United Methodist Church is sponsoring a prayer event in the park pavilion in downtown Cissna Park. The praying event starts at 7-30am. The church is hosting a luncheon at 11-30. In Paxton The Paxton Church of Christ will be open for prayer for the National Day of Prayer. The church will be open with church representatives or to pray by yourself. 

(USDA–dm)-Part of federal efforts to boost domestic fertilizer production include financial awards and less burdensome permitting processes regarding facility and infrastructure construction.  USDA’s Rod Bain has the story.

The Champaign Fire Department responded to a fire in a single-family home in the 70 block of Garwood Street on Thursday morning  Fire crews were able to quickly get the fire under control.   Once on the scene, fire crews reported heavy smoke and fire coming from the home.  Multiple hose lines were deployed, and the fire was contained to the structure of origin. The cause of this fire has not been determined as investigators remain on scene conducting their investigation.  There were no firefighter injuries reported.  The occupant was not home at the time of the fire.

(Paxton–jc) –  Sunday May 3rd the Loda American Legion Auxiliary is sponsoring a style show featuring designs from local Paxton Businesses.  Loda American Legion Auxiliary President Diane Eilts has the details.

Loda American Legion Auxiliary President Diane Eilts.  If you would like to purchase advance tickets, you can call Diane at 815-474-7364.

(The Center Square) – AAA says the average price for regular unleaded gasoline in Illinois has jumped 14 cents in one day. The organization’s daily gas prices website listed the average per-gallon price at $4.67 on Thursday, up from $4.53 the day before. The Illinois average one year ago was $3.41. Iowa and Missouri remain below $4 per gallon, according to AAA. The national average is $4.30.

(Chicago–jm) – Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas Company customers are likely to see minor credits on their bills for the next three years, thanks to a $125 million settlement agreement announced Thursday by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul. The benefit, if approved by the Illinois Commerce Commission, will average around $50 annually this year and around $40 each in 2027 and 2028, or about $3-4 monthly. 

(Undated-jm) – A former University of Illinois police officer was found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman during an off-duty incident 8 years ago. Jerald Sandagge was tried on two counts of criminal sexual assault. A jury returned a guilty verdict on both charges following a three day trial. He will be sentenced June 12th. He is facing three other sexual abuse cases and a retrial on charges of official misconduct.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill aimed at protecting the privacy of people using medications for gender-affirming care is moving forward at the Statehouse. Capitol News Illinois reports the legislation would remove testosterone from the Illinois Prescription Monitoring Program. The ILPMP is designed to protect against misuse of controlled substances. The plan would also make estrogen and the abortion pills mifepristone and misoprostol exempt from the program. 30th District State Senator Adraine Johnson, Democrat from Buffalo, worries the data could be used to target people who use these medications…

30th district State Senator Adraine Johnson, Democrat from Buffalo Grove. The bill passed out of a Senate committee and now heads to the Senate floor.
 

(Savoy-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff’s Office is turning to the public to identify two people suspected of using counterfeit money at a local grocery store last week. The department says on Friday, April 24th, deputies responded to a report of counterfeit currency being used at the Schnucks in Savoy. They say a man and a woman are suspected of using counterfeit money during the incident. No description of the two were provided. Anyone with information is asked to call the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office.

(Iroquois County-jm) – Last July, Iroquois County EMA partnered with the Regroup Mass Notification System, and as of May 1st will have permanently transitioned from HyperReach. Notifications from the HyperReach platform will no longer be able to be received. The change provides Iroquois County residents with a powerful new mass notification system to keep the community informed and prepared during emergencies. The advanced Regroup platform delivers critical updates through text messages, emails, or even phone calls, ensuring timely communication when it matters most. Whether it’s severe weather or other emergency incidents that require immediate notification of Iroquois County residents, the Regroup system provides real-time alerts to help protect families, businesses, and the entire community. Iroquois County EMA encourages all residents to sign up for Regroup today to be informed and stay prepared for any situation. Together, we will build a resilient and safe community. There are three ways to sign up: scan a QR code with your mobile device, text join icema to 31002 or download the Regroup Mobile app and enter ICALERTS for registry code.

(Champaign–dm)-With a dry fall last year, and less than average snowfall this past winter,Central Illinois was classified to be in a severe drought.  Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady says that the rain this past week helped.

 Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady

(Champaign–dm)-On Monday, May 4, 2026, construction will begin on south Mattis Avenue from Windsor Road to Curtis Road in Champaign. Planned improvements include upgrading the corridor to arterial street standards with new concrete pavement, curb and gutter, storm sewers, street lighting, on-street bike lanes, and a multi-use path. The work will be completed under full closure for the duration, from May 4 through December 4, 2026 with a planned completion from the northern limit to the southern limit. Appropriate detours will be marked but generally, neighborhoods and businesses along Curtis Road will still be accessible via Duncan Road or Prospect Avenue.

(Rantoul–jc)  It’s another busy weekend at the Rantoul Sports Complex as we start the month of May. Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Operations Brandun Denton says its soccer and more…

Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Operations Brandun Denton

(Gibson City–dm)-The Gibson City Restoration Association invites you to join them this Saturday, May 2nd, for their Sip and Shop wine Hop.  Gibson City Restoration Association President Sharon Heavalin has the details.

Gibson City Restoration Association President Sharon Heavalin.

(Chicagp–dm)-A Venezuelan migrant who was in the United States illegally has 

pleaded not guilty to murdering Loyola University student Sheridan Gorman in Chicago last month. Jose Medina, 26, entered the plea on Wednesday at the Leighton Criminal Courthouse in Chicago.

(Undated-jm) – It will soon cost more to shop at Sam’s Club. The company says the basic membership will increase $10 today to $60 per year. The plus version will now cost $120 per year.

(Rantoul–jc) Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Kinos Coffee. The business started in 2019 in Cissna Park and now has two additional locations with one in Paxton and one in Rantoul. Kinos Coffee Regional Manager Jessica Comstock talks about the popular business…

She says they like to partner with community groups…

Kinos Coffee Regional Manager Jessica Comstock. Kinos in Cissna Park Paxton and Rantoul is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

WPXN News notes…

The Gibson City Restoration Association will hold their Sip and Shop Wine Hop on Saturday, May 2nd. Check in begins at 10:30 am at 107 North Sangamon Avenue with the event running 11-2:30. Cost is $20 per person.

Impact Life will hold a blood drive at Kirby Foods in Paxton on Saturday, May 2nd from 10 am to 1pm. To sign up for a spot email Kevin Hanson at emtcoor at hotmail dot com.

The Melvin Community Hall welcomes Eric Gordon on Saturday, May 2nd.. Doors open at 5:30pm with music starting at 7pm.

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their all you can eat pancake and sausage breakfast on Sunday, May 3rd starting at 8am. Cost is a freewill donation.

The St. Joseph Township-Swearingen Memorial Library is having a used book sale  Monday, May 4th through Wednesday, May 27th.  All sales are by donation to the library.

Rankin townwide garage sales will take place Friday, May 15th and Saturday, May 16th.

The nonprofit group Jeremiah 33:6 will hold a free produce pantry and health fair on Friday, May 15th from 3-5 pm at the Roberts Gym in Roberts.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate will not vote on a plan this week to amend the Illinois constitution with new redistricting language. House Democrats passed a resolution last week to change how legislative districts are drawn in favor of Democrats. House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch said districts should be drawn substantially equal in population, ensure citizens have equal opportunity to participate in the political process and elect people on account of race. However, Senate President Don Harmon announced Wednesday that legal experts need to review the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling that drastically changes the federal Voting Rights Act. Harmon explained his caucus will dissect the decision, find a path forward and continue to protect the rights of all Illinoisans.

(Normal–jc)  A McLean County judge has allowed Illinois State University to hire vendors during the current strike by some workers at the university. The university will continue to hire outside workers at a weekly cost of 116 thousand dollars. Several AFSCME union workers remain on strike at Illinois State over wages and benefits. The Strike is in it’s 4th week for some janitors and groundskeepers.

(Springfield-jm) – An important deadline is approaching for some people who use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and they could lose benefits Friday. Officials said people enrolled in SNAP for at least 3 months, but haven’t met certain work requirements, will lose their benefits. Changes introduced last summer require some people to work or volunteer 20 hours a week, equivalent to a part time job. There are online tools available to find places to volunteer, or to check if you’re eligible like ‘ABE screener’ or the ‘SNAP Eligibility Calculator.’

(Chicago–jc)  With another Chicago police officer killed in the line of duty and surrounding facts in the case point to more problems with the Safe-T Act. Dean Abbott reports…

(Cullom–jc)  –   Tri Point School officials will look at the district's health, life, and safety survey when they meet on Friday in Kempton. The board meeting comes to order at 5 on Friday afternoon. 

(Kankakee–jc)  April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Clove Alliance is a not for profit group that assists sexual assault survivors and their families. Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracy Noe Slah says when someone comes to you after being assaulted, the important thing to remember is to believe them…

Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracy Noe Slah. Clove Alliance serves the Kankakee Iroquois and Ford County areas based in Kankakee, Watseka and Paxton 

(Chicago–jc)  With several strong storms causing damage across Illinois recently, Attorney General Kwame Raoul on Wednesday warned Illinois residents to be on alert for scammers looking to exploit homeowners and business owners who may need repairs from storm-related damage. Raoul cautioned residents that scammers often move quickly into communities to take advantage of people with damage to their homes or businesses. Raoul noted these “storm chasers” use the opportunity to pressure people into making quick and often expensive decisions about cleanup and construction work.

(Savoy-jm) — A Savoy street will close next week for significant repair work being done at a railroad crossing. East Church Street will be completely closed at the railroad crossing starting Monday, May 4. The closure is expected to last four to five days. 

(Roberts–jc)  –  This year’s Roberts Fun Day is set for Saturday June 6th in the Ford County town. Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Jessa Loveall says a breakfast kicks off the day. Other activities include bounce houses, silent auction, a bags tournament and music. Loveall says its a community welcoming event…

Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Jessa Loveall

(Gibson City–jc)  The Gibson City Restoration Committee had their weekly Queen of Hearts drawing last night. The jackpot was $6,784.  The drawing revealed the Ace of Diamonds. The pot will continue to grow til the queen is found. All the proceeds go toward the Burwell Building restoration project

(Urbana-jm) – With spring in full swing, you have probably noticed more birds in Central Illinois after wintering in warmer climates. But according to a recent study on birds in North America, their numbers have been declining for the last four decades. Ornithologists said bird populations in the area are shrinking at a faster pace every year, and some we would’ve seen flying around decades ago are all gone from most of the area. Researchers say since the late 1970s, more than half of Central Illinois’ bird population has seen a loss. They say attempts are being made to bring them back, with prairie restorations and research. 

(Undated-jm) – A federal agency says Illinois can’t limit credit card swipe fees for federally chartered banks, even though a federal judge earlier this year ruled that it could. Two interim filings posted last week by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, an independent subsection of the U.S. Treasury Department, represent the latest twist in a two-year legislative fight between banks and retailers. One of the filings specifically preempts the state’s first-of-its-kind Interchange Fee Prohibition Act, throwing the policy into further uncertainty by creating a second legal front and added pressure on state lawmakers amid an ongoing appellate court case. Interchange or “swipe fees” are automatically applied to debit and credit card transactions, redirecting about 1-2% or more of a transaction’s cost from the merchant to the banks, credit unions and card companies. Given the pending court case and a hard push from financial institutions, lawmakers are considering pushing back the state law beyond its July 1 effective date that was already delayed by a year.

(Springfield-jm) – State senators could pass a bill in the coming weeks to ban companies from manufacturing or selling cosmetic products containing forever chemicals. The ban would apply to PFAS found in makeup, hair and nail products, soaps, lotion, tanning products, perfume and cologne.

(Washington–jc)  The spring planting season is set to move again after local rains earlier this week. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at the soybean  crop progress in the state and midwest…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Urbana–jc)   A cow got loose on a portion of the University of Illinois campus on Wednesday. The ranging bovine was being transported on a trailer to the University’s Vet Clinic. After a short time the animal was retrieved and sent to its original destination.

(Mahomet-jm) – The Village of Mahomet unanimously voted to raise fees for sewer and water bills. The usage rate will stay the same, so water will cost the same per gallon, but fixed-rate facility fees tacked on to the bill will go up. Those rates will increase to $10 a month for water and $15 for sewer. Customers will see the price hike beginning on their May statements.

(Champaign-jm) – Parkland College’s music ensembles will continue their spring 2026 concert season with four upcoming performances. On Sunday, May 3, Parkland’s Concert Band will perform “America 250” at the college’s Harold and Jean Miner Theatre at 3 p.m., directed by Dr. Matthew Dixon. During the same concert, the Parkland Orchestra will perform at the college’s Harold and Jean Miner Theatre, directed by Dr. Rodney Mueller. The Parkland Guitar Ensemble will perform on both Wednesday, May 6 at 6 p.m. at Parkland’s Second Stage Theatre and Sunday, May 10 at 2 p.m. at the Urbana Free Library, directed by Dr. Young Kim.

(Gibson City–jc) The 20-26 Gibson Area Hospital Summer Bash is set for August 15th in the downtown area of the city. Performing full sets are Rick Springfield and Night Ranger. Gibson Area Hospital Spokesperson Bill Kirby says those who want Party passes for a discounted price have until tonight…

Gibson Area Hospital Spokesperson Bill Kirby

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate could pass a bill in the final month of session to help homeless students find housing. This plan would allow school districts to provide an extended motel stay for students and their parent, guardian or person who enrolled them in school. Sponsors said this is critical as students struggle to get to school when they don't know where they will sleep.

(Cissna Park–jc)  The Cissna Park Economic Development Board is seeking the town’s input into the possibility of creating a park district for the southern Iroquois County town. The board has set up a town hall meeting set for Thursday May 5th at the community room at the Cissna Park Family Restaurant. The Cissna Park Development board invites those in the community to bring ideas on the idea. A second meeting has also been set for June 11th.

(Gibson City–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Ropp’s Flower Factory of Gibson City Paxton and Mahomet. The local business has been family owned since 1950. Ropps Flower Factory Owner Roger Cramer says “Its a golden Day at Ropps…

Roger Cramer talks about Mom for Mother’s Day…

Ropps Flower Factory of Gibson City Paxton and Mahomet Owner Roger Cramer

Ropps Flower Factory is the WPXN Business of the Day, today. 

WPXN News notes…

The Gibson City Restoration Association will hold their Sip and Shop Wine Hop on Saturday, May 2nd. Check in begins at 10:30 am at 107 North Sangamon Avenue with the event running 11-2:30. Cost is $20 per person.

The Melvin Community Hall welcomes Eric Gordon on Saturday, May 2nd.. Doors open at 5:30pm with music starting at 7pm.

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their all you can eat pancake and sausage breakfast on Sunday, May 3rd starting at 8am. Cost is a freewill donation.

The St. Joseph Township-Swearingen Memorial Library is having a used book sale  Monday, May 4th through Wednesday, May 27th.  All sales are by donation to the library.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, May 8th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10.

The Harvest Moon Twin Drive In will hold their Spring Fling Craft and Vendor Show Mother’s Day Market on Saturday, May 9th from 9-2.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Coffee and Connections on Wednesday, May 13th from 8-9 am at the Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce office.

The Champaign Park District will hold a touch a truck at Sholem Park on Wednesday, May 13th from 4-7 pm.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois lawmakers are working to pass legislation meant to protect homeowners from deceptive and high pressure contractor practices that often follow severe weather. State Senator Michael E. Hastings said Senate Bill 3029 would prevent contractors from offering home repair or remodeling services while severe weather or natural disasters are actively occurring, while emergency crews are responding, or between 7 p.m. and 8 a.m. Hastings also said that for at least 72 hours after a disaster proclamation is issued, contractors would not be allowed to solicit a contract with a consumer in person for home repair or remodeling services. The consumer, however, would still be allowed to reach out to contractors first during these scenarios.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Senate Republicans hope to see lawmakers pass multiple bills in the coming weeks to protect children on social media. One of their plans could require age restrictions for social media platforms, noting that companies should take reasonable steps to block kids 16 and younger from creating accounts. A separate bill would require social media sites to disclose the algorithms they use to determine the content users see. Another plan could require social media companies to strengthen privacy protections, set safer default settings and limit manipulative design practices that negatively impact children. Senate Bill 3945 states that businesses displaying porn should require customers to show their government-issued ID or records of public or private transactions to confirm they are 18. Companies would also face a $5,000 fine for each day they fail to have age verification methods.

(Champaign-jm) – One person was hurt following a shooting in Champaign Tuesday evening. Police were called to the Schnucks on Mattis Avenue for a report of a shooting with injuries. The victim was found several blocks away. They were taken to the hospital in stable condition.

(Washington–jc)  The spring planting season is set to move again after local rains on Monday. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at the corn crop progress in the state and midwest…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Savoy-jm) – University of Illinois Willard Airport will be hosting an event next week to register travelers for the T-S-A PreCheck program. The program allows identified “low-risk” travelers to be screened faster and more efficiently than normal when going through airport security. Between May 5 and May 8, people can register for the program at Willard Airport. Appointments will be prioritized ahead of walk-ins. Applicants will need to bring proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent U.S. residency and pay an application fee at the time of their appointment

(Paxton–jc)  The United States National Day of Prayer is set for Thursday May 7th this year.  This is the 75th year for the event which sees 40 to 50 thousand praying events around the county. Locally, one of those events is set for 8am to 8pm on May 7th says Local organizer Sherry Heiser…

National Day of Prayer, local organizer Sherry Heiser of Paxton. The Church of Christ will be open from 8am to 8pm for all. More information is found on-line at National-day-of-prayer-dot-org

(The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker says a new sports complex in Springfield will bring in an estimated $25 million of annual economic activity.

A statement from Pritzker’s office said SCHEELS Sports Park represents more than $60 million in public-private investment.The governor joined local officials and business leaders at the facility’s opening on Tuesday.

(Rantoul–jc)  Members of the St Malachy Church  and St Malachy School are set to break ground in early May on an addition to the school grounds in Rantoul

The ground breaking ceremony for the new Saint  Dominic Hall is set for Sunday after the 9-30 Mass at the Church in the village. The New Saint Dominic Hall will include easy access to the building, modern restrooms, an entrance breezeway, gathering spaces and more. The goal is to raise One and a half million dollars for the project. Completion is anticipated to be December of this year as St Malachy’s Church celebrates its 125th anniversary in Rantoul. That date is December 6th. 

(The Center Square) – Progressive lawmakers in Washington D.C. introduced legislationTuesday that would increase the federal minimum wage to $25 per hour.

The proposal – put forward by  Illinois members of Congress – could have severe impacts on businesses across the country, according to critics. It is known as the ‘Living Wage for All Act.’  The federal minimum wage currently stands at $7.25 per hour, which lawmakers noted has not changed since 2009.  U S Congresswoman Delia Ramirez, Democrat from Chicago, was one that put Illinois on track to a 15 dollar minimum wage now and in July that will go up to 17 dollars per hour. Most small business groups oppose the huge increase saying it will eliminate jobs and cause small businesses to go “out of business.”

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Board of Education is launching a new statewide program to recognize schools that support military-connected students and families. The Purple Star School program and its related designation will highlight schools that take steps to address the unique academic and social-emotional needs of students in military families. These students often experience frequent school transitions that can disrupt academic progress and access to programs and services, along with taking a social and emotional toll on them. Schools that the program will recognize, ISBE said, take proactive steps to reduce barriers and ensure continuity and support for military families.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate Criminal Law Committee unanimously passed a bill Tuesday to ensure people in the Department of Corrections are not charged unreasonable fees for sending mail. Sponsors say it is important that families stay connected with their loved ones, and the state should not make that process harder. The bill would ensure committed people and their correspondents are not charged any fee, surcharge, or cost for mail and scanning services exceeding the standard postage rate. 

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton first responders were called to a single vehicle accident on I–57 south of town Tuesday evening. It happened around 8:30 pm near mile marker 258. One lane in each the northbound and southbound lanes were closed because of the crash. There's no word on if there were any injuries.

(Paxton–jc)  The first Friday free concert is set for this Friday night in Downtown Paxton. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says the Philo Country Opry performs at 7 on Friday night and concessions opens at 6pm…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Urbana-jm) – The City of Urbana is planning a public townhall meeting on alternative public safety models. The event will be held Friday, May 1, at 5:30 p.m. at City Council Chambers. This will be the first Community Engagement event of the Alternative Response Task Force. The Law Enforcement Action Partnership will present comparative findings from over 85 cities, alongside an analysis of Urbana's 911 response data. The presentation will be followed by a townhall-style dialogue on the future of alternative public safety in Urbana.

(Watseka–hc) The Ford Iroquois 4-H Foundation has awarded some scholarships to members. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois Governor. J.B. Pritzker says he would like the Legislative Inspector General to work faster on reported sexual harassment allegations against state Rep. Harry Benton, D-Plainfield.Pritzker said on Tuesday that the case has been going on for months and there should already have been a report to leadership.

(Charleston–jc)  – Eastern Illinois University’s television station has announced plans to stream its programming next fall after the station’s last broadcast on May 15. The Daily Eastern News reports that WEIU-TV’s uncertain future began last July when P–B-S funding was cut nationally and roughly 80% of the station’s funding was lost as a result.

(Buckley–jc)  Organizers with the 20-26 “Knight for Christ” Fundraiser are seeking donations for their silent and live auction The event is set for August 22nd at the Ford County Fairgrounds in Melvin. It is the major fundraiser for Christ Lutheran High School says Christ Lutheran High School Executive Director Sandy Spitz…

Christ Lutheran High School Executive Director Sandy Spitz

(Urbana–jc)  The Trump administration dedicated Operation Midway Blitz in a press release to 20-year-old Katie Abraham, who was killed last year in a drunken driving accident in Urbana, in Champaign County, by a Guatemalan man residing in the U.S. without legal status. But her mother said the administration never sought her permission to use her daughter’s name in furtherance of its political agenda, an association she says her daughter would not want. Denise Lorence, Abraham’s mother, says her daughter would have hated the use of her name by any politician. Abraham’s father, Joe Abraham, has been supportive of President Trump’s immigration enforcement campaign

(Chicago–jc)  –At least two Chicago aldermen are calling for changes to Illinois’ SAFE-T Act after a man with seven felony convictions escaped electronic monitoring and allegedly killed Chicago Police Officer John Bartholomew on Saturday. Alderman Silvana Tabares said in a social media post that Springfield must change the law to expand detainable offenses, strengthen revocation of pretrial release, allow for consideration of criminal history for detainment, and close the 48-hour window for electronic monitoring. Alderman Raymond Lopez said repeat violent offenders should not be given electronic monitoring.

(Paxton–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is The Poploft in Paxton and Gilman. The Pop Loft carries flowers, gifts and more and they are ready for Mother’s Day. The store has 2 locations…on Market Street in downtown Paxton and in downtown Gilman. The Pop Loft Owner Samantha “Sam” Magers talks about preparing for Mother’s Day…

She says each Wednesday is “Winnie Wednesday” and that means a free flower for kids…

The Pop Loft of Paxton and Gilman Owner Samantha Magers

The Pop Loft of Paxton and Gilman is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

WPXN News notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, May 8th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10.

The Harvest Moon Twin Drive In will hold their Spring Fling Craft and Vendor Show Mother’s Day Market on Saturday, May 9th from 9-2.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Coffee and Connections on Wednesday, May 13th from 8-9 am at the Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce office.

The Champaign Park District will hold a touch a truck at Sholem Park on Wednesday, May 13th from 4-7 pm.

Rankin townwide garage sales will take place Friday, May 15th and Saturday, May 16th.

The nonprofit group Jeremiah 33:6 will hold a free produce pantry and health fair on Friday, May 15th from 3-5 pm at the Roberts Gym in Roberts.

The Champaign County Residential Electronics Collection event will take place on Saturday, May 16th from 8-noon at Parkland College.