(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.

(undated–jc)  Severe storms and some tornadic activity occurred throughout East Central Illinois. Over 10 thousand homes were without power for a time between 6pm and 4 this morning. Some of the affected areas were the southside of Rantoul. Among the other power outages was a large part of Tolono.  A large tree branch was reported down in the 500 block of East Patton in Paxton. A tree fell on a truck in Buckley. In Mahomet, a tree was downed into a house in the village. Downed power lines also closed Turkey Farm Road in Mahomet. That road was re opened just before midnight on MondayThe National Weather Service estimates winds of 60-80 mph came through the area.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois filmmakers are set to get a break on taxes after Governor Pritzker announced a credit to incentivize sustainability in the industry. It’s the first credit of its kind in the country. The incentive will give an additional 5 percent tax credit to production companies that practice going green. To qualify, filmmakers must focus on minimizing waste, reducing energy use and emissions through equipment and transportation, as well as responsible food practices.

(Paxton –jc)  The First Free Friday Night concert at Veteran’s Square in downtown Paxton is this Friday night. Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper says it is the sounds of the Philo Country Opry at 7pm on Friday…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Chicago–jc)  –The Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals has upheld former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s conviction on ten counts of public corruption. The ruling came down Monday after Judges Frank Easterbrook, Nancy Maldonado and Michael Scudder heard oral arguments in the case on April 9.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is looking for tips from the public that can help Champaign Police solve a retail theft. The theft happened at the Old Navy at Market Place Mall. Officials said that at 4 p.m. on April 11, a woman walked into the store and obtained a theft detection device. She used it to remove multiple anti-theft devices from clothing, concealed the clothing in a bag and then left without trying to pay. Officials added that she reentered the store five minutes later and repeated the process. The stolen clothing was valued at just under $600. Crime Stoppers is seeking help in identifying the woman, who was recorded on store surveillance cameras. She was described as Black and wearing a light blue jacket with white lettering, black leggings and black shoes.

(Champaign–jc)  The Christie Clinic Race weekend is now complete for the year.  Over 5 thousand runners competed in the various races from a fun run to the annual Christie Clinic Marathon on Saturday.  Christie Clinic Race Weekend Director Jan Seeley says over the lifetime of the races, they have now surpassed the 2 million dollar mark in donations…

Christie Clinic Race Weekend Director Jan Seeley. The group has already started plans for the race weekend set for April in 20-27. Charities this year include  the American Cancer Society, Champaign County Humane Society, The Immigration Project, Crisis Nursery, and Embrace Mental Health Foundation. The event has an over 5 million dollar positive impact on Champaign County. 

(Gilman–dm)-Weather has been a big factor in this year’s planting progress. We had a chance to talk with Ford/Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Casey Claire about planting progress in Ford and Iroquois County.

Ford/Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Casey Claire

Bloomington, IL — In recognition of National Infant Immunization Week , McLean County Health Department  is encouraging parents and caregivers to stay informed and follow recommended immunization schedules to protect infants and young children from serious diseases. Parents want to make informed choices for their children, and when it comes to vaccines, it’s both appropriate and responsible to ask questions about their safety, effectiveness, and potential risks.  The Illinois Department of Public Health continues to recommend the immunization schedule supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

(Paxton–jc)  In our new news segment called P-X-N area people to know, we want you to know about Pat Milchuck of Paxton. Milchuck has been making hats, as her latest career, for the past 19 years. Her business is Simply Pats Hats and the business is in the State Street Mall on Route 45 in Paxton . Milchuck sales all types of self fashioned headwear and that includes Kentucky Derby hats…

Milchuck has been involved with several businesses, as a seamstress, but for the last 19 years she has owned Simply Pats Hats  in the State Street Mall on Route 45 in Paxton . Milchuck’s Hats have been featured in photographs at the Kentucky Derby…

Simply Pat’s Hats, State Street Mall Owner, Pat Milchuck of Paxton

(Springfield-jm) – State lawmakers could pass a historic package of bills during the final month of session to increase housing supply and lower costs. The Building Up Illinois Developments, or BUILD plan, is a top priority for Gov. JB Pritzker. Illinois has a shortage of roughly 142,000 housing units, and experts believe the state needs to build over 225,000 units within five years to keep up with demand. The Pritzker administration hopes to legalize a wider range of middle housing types, such as duplexes, triplexes and four flats, to expand access to homes that families can afford. Lawmakers could also streamline the permitting process for developers to have clear and predictable timelines for housing permit reviews and inspections. The measure could modernize outdated building codes to maintain resident safety, free up space for additional housing and drive down costs as well. The Illinois Municipal League said the state cannot preempt local authority and a one-size-fits-all approach does not work for housing.

(Springfield–dm)-Legislators in Springfield discussed a proposal to make it easier to redraw congressional lines by adding an amendment to the Illinois constitution.  106th District State Representative Jason Bunting (R. from Emington) talks about  why he voted no on the amendment.

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting  Republican from Emmington

(Kankakee-jm) – More than 250 students will receive degrees and certificates at the 57th annual Kankakee Community College commencement ceremony at 10 am Saturday, May 16 in the George H. Ryan Gymnasium in the college's Activities Building. The speaker at KCC’s ceremony will be Ellen Bollino, vice president and chief nursing officer for Riverside Healthcare.

(Melvin–jc)  The 20-26 Ford County Fair in Melvin Schedule has been released. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Danville-jm) – The War Museum’s May edition of First Saturday events in observance of American’s 250th Birthday and Vermilion County’s 200th will be on May 2nd starting at 1:00 p.m. Retired history teacher, museum board member and volunteer Fred Rinehart will present the program: “Deadlier by Design: The Transformation of Small Arms from 1775 to 1900.” In addition to talking about those technological advances, Mr. Rinehart will have a display of several weapons to exhibit those changes. Admission is free. The first Saturday in June event will showcase the Medal of Honor received by Civil War hero General John Charles Black of Danville.

(Champaign–dm)-The Weather has been a big factor in this year’s planting season.  Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady tells us about the progress for the year.

Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady.

(Paxton–jc)  There is another reason to put September 19th on your calendar of things to do this year. It is the annual Paxton Swine and Dine. There is a barbeque competition, family games and lots of vendors and food. This year's musical lineup includes American Idol Finalist Gabby Barnett and also 20-23 The Voice Champion and Paxton native Gina Miles. All events are in downtown Paxton .

(Cissna Park–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is the Cissna Park Coop in Cissna Park, The Cissna Park Coop was formed in 19-07 The Coop has locations in Cissna Park, Rankin and Woodworth. Cissna Park Coop General Manager

Dan Martinek talks history and the average price program

Cissna Park Coop General Manager Dan Martinek

Cissna Park Coop  Feed Mill Manager

Rowdy Murray says they have the feed and mixes for a wide variety of animals…

Cissna Park Coop Feed Mill Manager Rowdy Murray

The Cissna Park Coop is the WPXN Business of the Day, today. 

WPXN News notes…

Cissna Park and Kellart Lake Garage Sales will take Thursday, April 30th, Friday, May 1st and Saturday, May 2nd. Hours Thursday and Friday are 8 am to 7 pm and Saturday 8 am to noon.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the Gibson City Melvin Sibley High School on Friday, May 1st from 9-2.

The Elliott Amvets will host their Family Night on Friday, May 1st from 5-7 pm. Cost is $15 and includes chicken, fish or shrimp and two sides.

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 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.

(Undated-jm) – Damaging winds, large hail and even tornadoes. That’s what could be possible this afternoon across the WPXN listening area. The National Weather Service says storms could develop this afternoon into the evening hours. Officials are urging people to use caution and be weather aware of rapidly changing conditions.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Insurance Association hopes the Illinois Senate will not move forward with a massive reform plan for auto and homeowners insurance. Industry leaders say that new data shows Illinois has the sixth cheapest auto insurance rates in the country. State representatives passed a bill in late March to require insurance companies to give homeowners at least 60 days notice before non-renewal, changes in coverage, and premium increases over 10%. Insurers could also have to use state specific data to set rates for homeowners. Illinois Insurance Association Executive Director Kevin Martin said this plan could cause homeowner insurance premiums to increase on average up to 20% or $230. The Illinois Department of Insurance could be responsible for ensuring auto rates are not excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory. However, Martin notes U.S. News and World Report found Illinois has an average annual rate of roughly $1,650 and the lowest auto premium is set by Travelers Insurance at $1,208 per year.

(Springfield–jc)  The talks in Springfield about “real” political maps, not ones favoring Democrats in the majority continue.  District State Representative Amy Elik (‘L-lik) says the proposed constitutional amendment would erase the Republican party from the state…

District State Representative Amy Elik, Republican from Alton 

(The Center Square) – Union support staff at Illinois State University has entered a third week on strike over failed contract negotiations. The union says instead of negotiating in good faith, university officials are illegally spending more money on temporary staff than it would cost to agree to their demands. The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 1110 union called for a strike April 8 after contract negotiations with Illinois State fell through. The workers’ previous contract expired at the end of June last year, according to the university.

(Champaign County-jm) – Champaign County officials are addressing reports swirling around the community that U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement agents will be operating in the area this week. Urbana Mayor Deshawn Williams shared a statement on social media Saturday afternoon in response to the rumors stating they have not received confirmation indicating ICE is operating in the area. The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District also shared a post on social media Saturday morning, saying “CUPHD stands in solidarity with our immigrant community. 

(Loda–dm)-The Loda AmericanLegion Auxiliary is sponsoring a style show on Sunday May 3rd. Loda American Auxiliary President Diane Eilts has the details

Loda American Legion Auxiliary President Diane Eilts.  If you you want to purchase advanced tickets you can call 815-474-7264

(Chicago–dm)-(The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker says there is a need for speed when it comes to the Chicago Bears and megaprojects legislation that provides tax breaks for the National Football League team. The governor spoke at Northwestern University in Evanston on Friday and was asked about the team wanting changes to House Bill 910. The megaprojects bill is now in the state Senate after clearing the Illinois House last week.  HB 910 provides tax incentives for the Chicago Bears and other megaprojects worth $100 million or more. When asked by a reporter if speed might come at the expense of taxpayers, Pritzker said the Bears have been talking to lawmakers for two years.

(Springfield-jm) – After a brief debate, the Illinois House voted on partisan lines to pass House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 28, which would propose a change to the state constitution regarding redistricting. Introduced last week by House Speaker Chris Welch, Welch said the move was a direct response to concerns that federal action, including possible Supreme Court decisions, could further weaken the Voting Rights Act, including the removal of Section 5. Republican Travis Weaver said data shows that 18 districts already fail to meet the first two proposed criteria, which include districts being substantially equal in population and ensuring that no citizen is denied an equal opportunity to participate in the political process and to elect representatives of their choice on account of race. Those seats are held by Democrats

(CHAMPAIGN–dm)-It’s something most experience– – ravenous thoughts about what to eat next. It’s called food noise...and health care providers have tips to cope...so you can maintain a healthy weight. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has more.

 A health care provider can also get you on a treatment plan for your eating habits. That could include a GLP-1 medication...if it’s right for you. You can also visit the OSF HealthCare website for healthy recipes.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois State University President Aondover Tarhule is making a personal plea for more state funding even as he contends with labor unrest from union workers striking for more pay. Tarhule went before an Illinois House committee requesting $20 million more in state funding for the next fiscal year to help pay for financial aid for low-income students, in addition to making up for inflation and rising operating costs. He said the money that would be added to the university’s appropriations would help with tuition, rather than putting the burden on students, along with keeping ISU competitive with other universities on affordability. Tarhule said ISU is operating under a difficult economic environment, driven by inflation and annual pay increases. Unfunded state mandates on buildings have created a $250 million backlog, due to costs of meeting safety and health requirements, currently funded by student fees. Tarhule was asked about the union strike. According to Tarhule, the university has already cut $12 million in expenses. If the university were to offer a 3% annual increase to all workers, assuming a moderate 2% inflation rate, in three years the university would have a deficit of $26 million, the president said. The end result, said Tarhule, would be 6% annual tuition increases, possibly reducing student enrollment.

(Washington-jm) – High ranking Democrats and Republicans from Illinois were quick to condemn political violence after shots were fired Saturday night at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, attended by President Donald Trump. The president and other top government officials attending the annual event were not injured. Both sides of the aisle gave credit to the quick actions of law enforcement and condemned political violence.

(Paxton–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Paxton hardware and Rental. Spring is here and they are ready to serve you. In the rental department its tillers, and seeders to stump grinders and more. Paxton Hardware and Rental Owner Scott Allen talks about some “fun” and “appetizing” rentals for your next event…

Paxton Hardware and Rental has all your needs for tents, tables, chairs and more

Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen

Contact the store now to reserve your rental needs for Graduation Parties, summer events to weddings  Paxton Hardware and Rental is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

WPXN News notes…

Cissna Park and Kellart Lake Garage Sales will take Thursday, April 30th, Friday, May 1st and Saturday, May 2nd. Hours Thursday and Friday are 8 am to 7 pm and Saturday 8 am to noon.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the Gibson City Melvin Sibley High School on Friday, May 1st from 9-2.

The Elliott Amvets will host their Family Night on Friday, May 1st 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, May 1st from 7-9 pm at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton. The Philo Country Opry will perform.

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 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.

(Washington-jm) – Senator Dick Durbin has introduced legislation in Congress to increase funding for agriculture research. The measure called the America Grow Act, would boost funding over the next decade. Research funding to the USDA would increase 5 percent a year for the next 10 years if the measure passes. 

(Springfield-jm) – The beginning of May marks big changes for eligibility for SNAP benefits in Illinois. Around $1 billion has been cut from SNAP after the passing of the Big Beautiful Bill. Work requirement changes include hours worked and age eligibility which could impact how long thousands of Illinoisans can receive benefits. The Illinois Department of Human Services has announced they are investing $40 million dollars to hire 450 new employees to help facilitate changes. 

(Undated–jc)  The unemployment rate rose in local labor market areas in the year from February 2025 to February 2026. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

(Champaign-jm) – The man arrested for his involvement in a Champaign church fire last year has pleaded guilty to arson at a place of worship. Dalton Whitlock was arrested on November 27th following a fire at Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. Church officials say the fire caused over $300,000 in damage. No injuries were reported.

(Fisher-jm) – Sangamon Valley firefighters in Fisher were called to an excavator fire Thursday. It happened near First and Hamilton. There’s no word on the cause of the fire or how much damage was done.

(Champaign–jc)  The Christie Clinic race weekend continues today with several events.. Christie Clinic Race Weekend Director Jan Seeley says today is the time for runners and families…

Christie Clinic Race Weekend Director Jan Seeley. The annual marathon steps off tomorrow morning at 7-33. 

(The Center Square) – A proposed millionaires tax was shot down late Wednesday in the Illinois House of Representatives.Democrat leadership said they weren’t able to get enough votes together, but they aren’t giving up.

Proposed House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 21 would have raised the tax rate on income earned more than $1 million from 4.95% to 7.95%.

Tax dollars brought in by the amendment would have been split equally between property tax relief and school funding.

Despite not being able to gather a large enough coalition to pass the tax in the single day between introduction and the deadline, House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Westchester, said his caucus won’t be giving up.

(Champaign-jm) – A vehicle caught fire on Prospect Avenue in Champaign Thursday afternoon. It happened around 3:15. No injuries were reported.

(Illinois–dm)-A new report has ranked 11 commercial casino resorts in Illinois from luckiest to unluckiest. The data study analyzed Tripadvisor reviews and found that Hollywood Casino Joliet ranked luckiest, followed by Par-A-Dice in East Peoria and Grand Victoria in Elgin. Jumer's Casino Rock Island finished last. The report pegged the economic impact of Illinois’ major casinos at $7.04 billion.

(Champaign–jc)  Champaign County leaders placed a  year-long moratorium concerning any new large data center projects. The vote came at last night's meeting. Those in the crowd last night pushed for different lengths of the pause on data centers. The board then voted for the  12-month moratorium

(Springfield–jm) – Voters in Illinois may see a measure on their November ballot to amend the state’s constitution to change redistricting rules. Illinois Speaker Chris Welch filed a last minute resolution this week to redistrict Illinois through a new list of priorities, amending current articles of the Illinois constitution. The new priorities include equal population sizes, ensure that no citizen is denied an equal opportunity to participate in the political process and to elect representatives of his or her choice on account of race, to create a racial coalition and for districts to be contiguous and compact. The Senate has until May 3rd to vote to put the measure on the ballot for the November 3rd midterm election. Republicans call the proposal cheating. 

(Springfield-jm) – The biggest item on Illinois lawmakers agenda this spring is still a work in progress with six weeks left in the legislative session. Lawmakers are entering the home stretch of budget negotiations ahead of the scheduled May 31st adjournment while monitoring better than expected revenue growth alongside uncertainty of what’s happening in Washington. Governor Pritzker proposed increasing spending to $56 billion in the upcoming fiscal year 2027 budget. 

(Illinois–dm)-The Illinois House passed House Bill 910 Wednesday evening, a bill which would essentially allow developers of so-called "mega projects" to get a break on their property taxes with an assessment freeze and the ability to negotiate "payments in lieu of taxes" with local taxing bodies.The bill has been hyped as the "Bears Bill" over the past few months as it would essentially allow the Bears to get a break on their property taxes to build a stadium that is estimated to generate thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in economic impact. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting (R-Emington) voted against the legislation and explains why.

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting (R-Emington) 

(Urbana-jm) – Just one month after he was arrested for sexually assaulting a child and having footage of his crimes, an Urbana man pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 40 years behind bars. 75-year-old Edward Bridges was arrested on March 22. The Champaign County Sheriff’s Office said an ongoing investigation revealed he had been sexually assaulting a now-7-year-old girl for several years. After his arrest, he provided a “full confession” and consented to a forensic examination of his phone; the Sheriff’s Office said investigators found multiple images and videos of the abuse. He pleaded guilty to one count each of predatory criminal sexual assault and possession of child pornography, both Class X felonies. A second count of predatory criminal sexual assault was dismissed.

(USDA–dm)-USDA's latest Topsoil Moisture Condition Report shows little change week-over-week, but what does that mean for various regions and the crops and pastures within them.  Rod Bian has the story

(Vermilion County-jm) – Three buildings owned and operated by Vermilion County will see improvements following the passage of a trio of resolutions by the county board. Those buildings are the animal shelter, the Joseph G. Cannon Building and the Rita B. Garman Vermilion County Courthouse. The County Board approved acceptance of a grant that would go toward improving the animal shelter. The board also approved contracts for masonry restoration at both the courthouse and Cannon building, along with roof replacement and refurbishment of the latter’s elevator system. The $2.5 million grant comes from the Julius Hegeler II Foundation, and it will be used to either build a new animal shelter facility or renovate and expand the current one. The grant will be paid over the next three years in installments of $800,000 or $850,000.

(Illinois–dm)-(The Center Square) – New rules for employees of the state of Illinois will prevent betting on the outcomes of current events and state government actions on prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket.

Governor JB Pritzker signed an executive order that prohibits the use of the services that have grown in popularity over the past two years.It specifically bans all state workers and government leaders from using any non-public information to be used or shared with anyone in an effort to earn a financial edge. Pritzker said the order is in an effort to ensure transparent and ethical government operation. In the announcement, he said restrictions on insider trading are not strong enough at the federal level.

(Champaign–jc)  The City of Champaign is turning up the volume on one of its most popular summer traditions. Sound Bites, the City’s free weekly concert series, has returned to the Downtown Plaza for another exciting season!

Live music is once again filling the Plaza on Thursdays at midday with music. New this year, the experience extends into the evening with an after-work series from 4:30–6:30 p.m.oy the energy of Downtown Champaign. Live performances begin May 7.

(Paxton–jc)  – Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is The Frederick Community Bank of Paxton and Cissna Park. The banks got their start in 1908.Both banks 

Put in drive up facilities and also added automated teller machines, mobile banking and real time processing as a benefit to their customers. The two banks  merged  on August Third 20-18. The two facilities merged as the Frederick Community Bank.

Frederick Bank Vice President and Loan Officer Alden Harms talks about the lending side of the bank…

Frederick Community Bank Vice President and Loan Officer Alden Harms

Frederick Community Bank Wealth Management Advisor Kendall Cox takes a look into the process to help clients build their financial future. 

Frederick Community Bank Wealth Management Advisor Kendall Cox. The Frederick Community Bank is the WPXN Business of the day, today.

WPXN News notes…

The Cadillac in Paxton will host Emo Night Live with the All American Throwbacks on Saturday, April 25th at 8pm.

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Roberts will hold a free spaghetti supper on Sunday, April 26th from 4-6:30 pm at the Roberts Gym.

Gospel singer Kelley Dupius will perform at the Paxton Church of Christ on Sunday, April 26th at 7pm. 

Buckley Townwide Garage Sales will take place Friday, April 24th and Saturday, April 25th.

The Loda American Legion will hold their fish and chicken fry on Friday, April 24th from 4-6pm.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, April 25th from 9-2.

(Springfield–jc)--Last Friday was the 3rd reading deadline in the Illinois House.   That was the last day for Illinois House bills to be moved to the Illinois Senate.

Reaction to the action from 101st District State Representative Chris Miller, Republican from Hindsboro..

101st District State Representative Chris Miller, Republican from Hindsboro

(Champaign–jc)  –In order to facilitate Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend activities, numerous temporary road closures will occur. These closures will occur in stages beginning today and go through Saturday. Closures include

 Today - Green Street Mile tonight between  6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. First Street between Kirby Avenue and Green Street; Green Street between First Street and Neil Street, closed prior to and during the race.

Friday, April 24 – 4th Mile/27th Mile – 1:00 p.m. Kirby Avenue between First Street and Fourth Street, closed for the duration of the weekend’s events.

Friday, April 24 – 5K - 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Oak Street, Gregory Drive, First Street, Green Street, Sixth Street, closed prior to and during race.

Saturday, April 25 - Marathon, Half-Marathon, 10K – Various streets in Champaign, Urbana, and Savoy between 4:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., 

Detailed maps can be found at IllinoisMarathon.com.

(Gibson City–jc)  –Gibson City leaders continue to look at the potential of a solar farm. The proposed project would be on the cities North-East side. A city planning commission  voted to oppose the project. The full Gibson City Council is expected to take up the issue when they meet in May in monthly session.

(Normal–jc)  The Delta Omega Chapter of Pi Sigma Epsilon , national professional fraternity in sales, marketing, and management, at Illinois State University made history by earning third place in the Lewis F. Gordon Top Gold Chapter award. This makes it the third best P-S-E chapter in the nation following the 2025 operating year – its highest ranking ever.

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Three University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign faculty members have been elected members of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, one of the oldest honorary societies in the United States. Deana McDonagh, Kenneth Suslick and Tandy Warnow are among the 252 inductees for 2026. Founded in 1780, the Academy recognizes scientists, artists, scholars and leaders who have distinguished themselves in the public, private and nonprofit sectors.

(Springfield–jc)  –  After Illinois House Speaker Democrat Chris Welch filed a bill to again redistrict election maps, sharp reaction coming from Republicans in Springfield. 73rd District State Representative Ryan Spain, Republican from Peoria says this goes beyond “gerrymandering”...

73rd District State Representative Ryan Spain, Republican from Peoria

CHAMPAIGN – Champaign Information Technologies  Director Mark Toalson has announced his plans to retire after more than 18 years of service to the City of Champaign. Toalson’s last day of employment with the City will be August 14th. Toalseon says he is truly grateful for the opportunity to serve the City of Champaign. 

(The Center Square) – Illinois Governor. J.B. Pritzker has announced a new 5% tax credit to incentivize green film and television production. Under the program, productions recognized as “certified green” through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Illinois Film Office will be eligible.

(Springfield–jc0  The National Institute for Early Education Research’s 2025 State of Preschool Yearbook says Illinois remained 20th in the nation for preschool access for 4-year-olds and fell from third to fourth in serving 3-year-olds.

The report said state spending rose seven percent over the previous year when adjusted for inflation

(Washington–jc)  -U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin  on Wednesday met with members of the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce in his Washington office to discuss economic development and infrastructure investment in Central Illinois.  During the meeting, Durbin and the local leaders spoke about the Springfield Rail Improvements Project, which Durbin has helped secure more than $247 million in federal funding to complete.  Durbin also received an update about infrastructure projects the City is undertaking, as well as projects at Lincoln Land Community College, and Public Schools District 186.

(Springfield–jc)  More reaction from conservatives in Springfield over the attempt by the majority democrats in Springfield to look to a state amendment to further put the Illinois District maps in additional favor of the Democratic Party. 67th District State Representative Dan Ugaste (“U-gas-tee) of St Charles says  this continues to be an attempt for the Democrats to take over the whole state of Illinois…

67th District State Representative Republican Dan Ugaste of St Charles

(Gibson City–jc)  Gibson City is getting ready for its spring and summer’s farmers market. The first market of the season is set for June 2nd. The city’s farmers market committee will meet at 6 tonight. The topics range from a vendor meeting in May, to helping hands and the first market in June. 

(The Center Square) – The Illinois House has passed legislation to provide tax incentives for the Chicago Bears and other megaprojects worth $100 million or more. House Bill 910 passed on Wednesday night by a vote of 78-32. The Bears have threatened to relocate to Indiana if it did not receive the tax incentives it wanted to relocate from Soldier Field on Chicago's Lakefront instead of property it purchased at the former Arlington Parks former horse race track.

(Champaign–jc)  The events for the 20-26 Christie Clinic Race Weekend start later today in Champaign-Urbana. Christie Clinic Race Weekend Director Jan Seeley says a health fair is set at the ARC on the University of Illinois campus…

Christie Clinic Race Weekend Director Jan Seeley

Race events and more run through Saturday. The annual Marathon steps off at 7-33 on Saturday morning

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. —University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign undergraduate students Sameer Abbasi  from Urbana and Lyndon Shi of Vernon Hills have received Boren Awards. David L. Boren Scholarships  are funded by the National Security Education Program to increase U.S. expertise in languages and cultures in world regions critical to U.S. interests. 

(The Center Square) – An Illinois attorney general candidate launched a new initiative to reform the SAFE-T Act.The law enacted a number of criminal justice reforms across Illinois in 2021, and brought about the elimination of cash bail.

Republican Illinois Attorney General candidate Bob Fioretti announced the creation of a new Illinois Public Safety & Accountability Commission, led by retired Riverside Police Chief Thomas Weitzel. One issue Fioretti sees with current law is how it handles electronic monitored release of inmates, which has been widely expanded since the 2023 law eliminating cash bail statewide.

(Cissna Park–jc)  –Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Knapp and Steiner True Value Hardware in downtown Cissna Park. The business is owned by the Jim McCray family. Knapp and Steiner True Vale Store Manager Michael McCray says the store is ready for Spring with soil, seeds and mulch to flowers and more…

McCray says the store is readyfor mothers day too…

Knapp and Steiner True Value Store Manager Michael McCray

The store is located in downtown Cissna Park across from the park. Knapp and Steiner True Value is the WPXN Business of the Day, today.

WPXN News notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper on Friday, April 24th from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, April 25th from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, April 25th from 9-2.

The Onarga Fire Department will hold their taco fundraiser on Saturday, April 25th from 10 until they are sold out at Durham Park. Cost is $3 per taco.

The Cadillac in Paxton will host Emo Night Live with the All American Throwbacks on Saturday, April 25th at 8pm.

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Roberts will hold a free spaghetti supper on Sunday, April 26th from 4-6:30 pm at the Roberts Gym.

Gospel singer Kelley Dupius will perform at the Paxton Church of Christ on Sunday, April 26th at 7pm. 

(Champaign-jm) – One of the two teenagers accused of shooting and killing another teen at Champaign’s Market Place Mall last month will be tried as an adult. The Champaign County State’s Attorney's office says a motion to move the teen’s case from juvenile court to adult court was granted. The suspect was identified as 15 year old Braylin Vellon. The state’s attorney's office says Vellon is accused of opening fire on 16 year old Jaylen Bailey outside Dick’s House of Sport on March 23rd following an altercation. He faces four counts of first degree murder. The other 15 year old arrested in the case could also see his case go to adult court.

(Springfield-jm) – Former Illinois governor Pat Quinn hopes to see lawmakers pass a property tax relief plan within the next two weeks. The Democrats want state leaders to allow voters to decide if Illinois should have a millionaire tax. Quinn argues that millionaires should pay a 3% surcharge on their income taxes to help lower property taxes for families and businesses. Recent data show that Illinois has over 77,000 millionaires, who make up 1.2% of the state's income taxpayers. Over 60% of Illinois voters supported the statewide advisory referendum in 2024

(Springfield–jc)  –  The state of Illinois charges one of the highest gas taxes in the nation. With the war against Iran, the price of gas continues to range from 3-95 to 4-35 in East Central Illinois. One Republican State Representative has put forth a measure to help alleviate part of the price of gas. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington says it will save the motoring public some dollars…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

(Rantoul-jm) - Charges against a Rantoul man in connection to a 2024 shooting have been dismissed. 21 year old Mekhi Ross appeared in Champaign County court for a final pretrial hearing when charges of aggravated battery with a firearm were dismissed, Ross was accused of shooting a man following an argument on October 28, 2024. 

(Urbana-jm) – Urbana police and the University of Illinois Police Department are partnering to better serve residents around the clock. The Urbana City Council approved an intergovernmental agreement and a $50,000 payment to allow UIPD to access the law enforcement agencies' data system overnight. Currently, UIPD officers cover calls to the Urbana Police Department from 11 p.m. until 7 a.m.

(Danville–jc)  – The East Central Illinois Community Action Agency was established in 1965 to provide continued services to individuals and families in the Ford, Iroquois, and Vermilion Counties. The vision is to move families to self-sufficiency .East Central Illinois Community Action Agency’s Tori Brigham provides some insight into the services offered…

East Central Illinois Community Action Agency’s Tori Brigham

(Springfield–jm) — With construction across the state in bloom this spring, the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police, Illinois Tollway, industry partners, labor, local agencies and frontline construction workers today teamed up for National Work Zone Awareness Week to remind the public that “Safe Actions Save Lives.” To call attention to the heightened risks of work zones, Governor JB Pritzker has proclaimed April 20-24 as “Work Zone Safety Awareness Week” in Illinois. ?

(Kankakee–jc)  April is Sexual Assault-Awareness Month. Clove Alliance is a non profit that helps sexual assault survivors and families. The goal is to end sexual violence. Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracy Noe Slah says information is available on their website…

Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracy Noe Slah. They serve Kankakee, Ford and Iroquois Counties. The 24 hour crisis  hotline help line is 815-932-3322

Champaign–jc)  Parkland College is set to celebrate the achievements of the Parkland College apprenticeship participants. The celebration is set for April 29th at the college. The companies that have students in their apprenticeship program include Birkey’s Farm Stores, Kraft, Caterpillar and Advanced Filtration Systems.

(Springfield-jm) — A plan heading to the Illinois Senate could help address high-risk speeders across the state. Advocates hope to create an intelligent speed assistance program within the Illinois Secretary of State's office as an alternative to license suspension for dangerous drivers. This comes as sponsors say 75% of people with suspended licenses continue to drive. The bill states drivers who commit two qualifying offenses within a year would be required to install the speed limiting device in their vehicle. The Secretary of State would notify drivers that their license will be suspended until they complete the program. Participants would also pay $30 per month into the Intelligent Speed Assistance Permit Fee Fund.

(Springfield-jm) - The Illinois House passed a plan to improve the indoor air quality for schools. This plan states school districts should ensure all active classrooms are equipped with air quality monitors. Advocates expect the state to spend roughly $10 million to buy monitors for classrooms statewide. House Bill 4739 would also require the Illinois State Board of Education to work with the Illinois Department of Public Health to create a document explaining the values of good indoor air quality for districts. Republicans are concerned about whether the monitors will be purchased with federal or state funds.

(Springfield–jc)  Trying to get to a real balanced budget without another tax increase from the majority party in Springfield  89th District State Representative Tony McCombie says the democrat majority continue to raise fees and taxes, and have more proposals in Springfield this week…

89th District State Representative and House Minority LeaderTony McCombie

The Republican added that we have a long way to go in Illinois and it doesn't start with more tax revenue.  .

(Fisher-dg)- Fisher Grade School will have a new principal starting next school year. The Fisher school District hired Taylor Flynn to lead at the elementary school. She currently is the Assistant Principal at Paxton Buckley Loda Jr. High. 

(Urbana-jm) – A teenager accused of shooting a 14-year-old in January is now being charged as an adult. On Tuesday, he appeared in court and pleaded not guilty. 17-year-old Brandon Huff is charged with aggravated battery with a firearm. The charges stem from a shooting that took place on January 29 in the 1100 block of Hill Street in Urbana. The victim and a 16-year-old male, both from Rantoul, were sitting inside a vehicle when two male suspects approached the vehicle and fired multiple shots into it. The 14-year-old was treated for his injuries, which were non-life-threatening. The 16-year-old wasn’t hurt. He is scheduled to appear in court again on May 20 for a pre-trial conference.

(Washington–jc)  Its Spring planting season. With a look at the planted crops around the state and nation, a report with Rod Bain…

(Champaign County-jm) – The Champaign County Board will vote Thursday on whether to approve a moratorium on large data center development for at least 90 days. It will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday in the Shields-Carter Meeting Room of the Bennett Administrative Center in Downtown Urbana.  The action comes as current ordinances covering data centers were designed for small centers. But in the past year, data centers have grown in size and scope. If passed, the Prairie Rivers Network said the moratorium will allow time for the board to research and adopt an ordinance regulating data center development within the county. Data centers can use a substantial amount of water for cooling. So a new set of ordinances will likely focus on water use. The main source of drinking water in Champaign County is the Mahomet Aquifer.

(Champaign–jc) The 20-26 Christie Clinic race weekend starts on Thursday and runs through Saturday in  Champaign-Urbana. This year’s theme is “Leave your Legacy”.  Christie Clinic Race Weekend Director Jan Seeley says the runners receive a “cool” medal…

Christie Clinic Race Weekend Director Jan Seeley. A Health Fair and Expo is the initial event Thursday and the annual Marathon steps off Saturday morning at 7-33.A full lineup of events is found on line

(Undated-jm) — State Representative Brandun Schweizer (R-Danville) is announcing two upcoming RX Drop Off Events he is hosting with local police departments on Friday, April 24th, Those include the Danville Police Department from 10 am to noon with drop off in the east lot of the Public Safety Building and the Rantoul Police Department from 1:30-3:30 in front of the police station.. Representative Schweizer, along with the Danville and Rantoul Police Departments will be collecting your unused, unwanted, and expired prescription drugs and safely disposing of them for FREE. The events are drive-up events, allowing constituents to remain in their cars. Please place medication in a sealed plastic bag. Brochures on state programs will also be available. Accepted medications include tablets, capsules, and other solid forms of prescription drugs, as well as patches and vaping devices and cartridges, provided the lithium batteries are removed. Restricted items include liquids, including intravenous solutions, syringes, and needles.

(Springfield–jc)  –The Illinois Department of Labor  has entered into an Assurance of Voluntary Compliance with Allied Universal Security Services to resolve wage claims and prevent future violations of the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act. The agreement resolves those claims without litigation and establishes enforceable measures to ensure workers are paid properly going forward.

(Rantoul–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Furniture World in downtown Rantoul. The business has operated since 1959 in the downtown area of the village. The showroom is full of name brand furniture including a full line of recliners, sofas, sofa sleepers, rockers, to beds and bedroom groupings, kitchen dinettes, along with Bemco bedding. They are open daily 930am to 5pm. 10am to 5pm on Saturdays. Furniture World will also deliver your new items up to 50 miles from the Rantoul location.The slogan for the business has been…Name Brand Furniture, at everyday low prices, along with It’s worth the trip to Furniture World downtown Rantoul.

Furniture World in Rantoul, the WPXN Business of the Day, today. 

WPXN News notes…

The Cadillac in Paxton will host Emo Night Live with the All American Throwbacks on Saturday, April 25th at 8pm.

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Roberts will hold a free spaghetti supper on Sunday, April 26th from 4-6:30 pm at the Roberts Gym.

Gospel singer Kelley Dupius will perform at the Paxton Church of Christ on Sunday, April 26th at 7pm. 

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper on Friday, April 24th from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, April 25th from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, April 25th from 9-2.

The Onarga Fire Department will hold their taco fundraiser on Saturday, April 25th from 10 until they are sold out at Durham Park. Cost is $3 per taco.

(Iroquois County-jm) — A second tornado touched down in Iroquois County during Friday night’s severe weather, the US National Weather Service confirmed. After further reviewing data from the storms, the NWS damage assessment team determined that the damage at the Knauth Farm outside of Milford was from a tornado, according to Scott Anderson, Iroquois County’s EMA director.That tornado continued on a path east into Darrow, shearing power poles off at the base just south of US Highway 24 near Effer, at the Newton County, Indiana line. Anderson added that as more data is received and analyzed, it’s possible that other areas of damage could be designated as tornadoes.

(Chicago–jc)  – U.S. District Court Judge April Perry has dismissed Illinois’ lawsuit against President Donald Trump over his deployment of National Guard troops to the state. The judge ruled on Monday that she granted the Trump administration’s motion to dismiss because the matter is “moot” after the president announced the removal of the troops in December.

(Springfield–dm)-House Bill 5264, sponsored by a Cicero Democrat provides that the Department of Commerce and Equal Opportunity shall establish a loan program, subject to appropriation, to provide low interest loans to small businesses that have been negatively impacted by an economic shock. 88th District State Representative Regan Deering Republican from Decatur encouraged her House colleagues to vote "no" on a bill dealing with low interest loans from the Department of Commerce and Equal Opportunity.

 88th District State Representative Regan Deering Republican from Decatur

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign County Crime Stoppers is asking for the public’s help to identify the suspects in a retail theft case. The theft happened around 2 p.m. on April 4 at the Old Navy store. Two female suspects entered the business and walked around while one of them used a bag to hide numerous items. When they left, one suspect grabbed two sweatshirts and wrapped them around the concealed clothing. When they passed the anti-theft machines, the security tags on the clothes triggered the alarms to go off, but the suspects kept walking and didn’t try to pay. The two suspects left the store in a red four-door sedan with more than $500 in stolen merchandise. Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspects, who were captured on tape. They were both described as Black females between 25-30 years old. One of them was described as having a medium build and was wearing a pink sweatshirt. The other suspect was wearing all black clothing.

(Champaign–jc) The streets of Champaign-Urbana will be filled with runners, fans, and volunteers this weekend.  It's the annual Christie Clinic Race Weekend. The three day event starts on Thursday and runs through Saturday. What is the theme for this year? Christie Clinic Race Weekend Director Jan Seeley has the answer…

Christie Clinic Race Weekend Director Jan Seeley.

A Health Fair and Expo is the initial event Thursday and the annual Marathon steps off Saturday morning at 7-33.A full lineup of events is found on line

(Urbana-jm) – Firefighters responded to the scene of a house fire in Urbana on Monday. The fire broke out at a home near East California Avenue and S. Pfeffer Road, shortly after 4 p.m. The home is located less than a mile from the Walmart Supercenter on High Cross Road.

(Onarga–dm)-This Saturday April 25th, the Onarga Fire Department will host their annual Taco Fundraiser featuring Tony’s Tacos.  Secretary/Treasurer Tim Thorn has the information

Onarga Fire Dept. Secretary/Treasurer Tim Thorn

(Danville–jc) Officials at Danville Area Community College  discovered a suspected coordinated system of misappropriation of Adult Education funds and falsification of test scores and grant performance reports. The college continues to look into the discrepancies. DACC President Randall Fletcher, and leadership team conducted a six-month internal investigation into these suspected incidents of malfeasance by administrators who supervised this academic program and managed the grant funds. An investigation continues. The college and its board of trustees will continue to cooperate with the Illinois Community College Board  matter.

(The Center Square) – Community colleges in Illinois could soon offer Bachelor’s degree programs to Illinois residents. Officials, lawmakers and students all say the initiative would make higher education more accessible, affordable and benefit the state’s economy. House Bill 5319 would allow all community colleges to provide four-year baccalaureate degree programs, with specific programs offered to be determined by collaborative efforts between the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) and the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE). The ICCB released a report detailing the economic impact of the 45 institutions across the state, with data showing the state sees a 130% return on tax funds spent on community colleges.

(Springfield-jm) – Consumers could face confusion this summer when paying with credit or debit cards, as a new Illinois law aims to eliminate certain card swipe fees. The Interchange Fee Prohibition Act is set to take effect July 1, banning card swipe fees on taxes and tips. The change would impact how transactions are processed by financial institutions. Currently, when consumers use a credit or debit card, merchants pay an interchange fee, typically around 2% to 3%, to card-issuing banks or credit unions for each transaction. The law, signed by Governor JB Pritzker in 2024, would be the first of its kind in the nation. Its rollout was delayed due to ongoing legal challenges, and questions remain about how it will be implemented. In March, the Electronic Payments Coalition launched an advertising campaign in Illinois opposing the law, showing scenarios where card payments for tips or taxes could be declined. It remains unclear how the law will be implemented. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, part of the U.S. Treasury Department, is currently reviewing potential action related to the law.

(USDA-dm)- Invasive plant pests and disease pests pose significant risks to our nation's agriculture and backyard gardens, yet there are ways you can keep these threats away. Rod Bain has the story.

(Chatsworth-jm) – A Chatsworth man was arrested for alleged sex crimes against a child. The Fairbury Police Department arrested 63-year-old Bruce Sanders in Chatsworth at OSF Saint James Medical Center after he received medical treatment. He has been charged with two counts of child sexual abuse material, three counts of violating the sexual offender registry, and one count of grooming.

(Rantoul–jc)  –  The Community Service Center of Rantoul has its Spring Fling Fundraiser set for Thursday at the Rantoul Knights of Columbus Hall Community Service Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford talks about where the donations help with the many services offered by the local center…

Rantoul based Community Service Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford

(Bloomington-jm) – McLean County prosecutors have charged a man with stealing a Bloomington Fire Department ambulance parked outside Grossinger Motors Arena, close to where he had just been released from jail for retail theft. Like the retail theft accusation, 34-year-old Dennis Montgomery has been released again because the latest felony burglary and theft charges against him are non-detainable crimes under Illinois’ SAFE-T-Act. A court document said a public safety surveillance camera in Downtown Bloomington shows someone similar in appearance to Montgomery standing by the parked ambulance. Police said they found the unoccupied ambulance at the nearby DB Plasma Donation Centre on West Washington Street, where Montgomery and about 20 other people had gathered.

(Gibson City–dm)-The Gibson City Restoration Association is raising money to refurbish the Burwell Opera House.  They are sponsoring a Sip and Shop Wine Hop on Saturday May 2nd, but they are also having weekly Queen of Hearts drawings.  Gibson City Restoration Association president Sharon Heavilin has details of their Queen of Hearts drawings

Gibson City Restoration Association president, Sharon Heavilin 

A two-year extension of Illinois’ COLA pension buyout program is headed to the state Senate. The voluntary program allows retirees in Illinois’ four statewide retirement systems to receive a lump-sum payment in exchange for forgoing future 3% compounded cost-of-living adjustments. The House passed HB 5196 unanimously on Friday. Supporters say the buyouts have reduced Illinois’ pension liabilities by an estimated $2.6 billion.

(Cissna Park–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Double Y Sales and Service located along route 49 in Cissna Park. Double Y is a three generation lawn mower sales and service business owned by the Tom Yergler family. Double Y’s Service Manager Jerry Kaeb says the service department is ready with parts in stock to serve their customers…

Double Y Sales and Service, Service Manager Jerry Kaeb

They have  over 50 Toro mowers in stock ready for your lawn. Double Y Sales and Service is the WPXN business of the Day, today. 

WPXN News notes…

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, April 25th from 9-2.

The Cadillac in Paxton will host Emo Night Live with the All American Throwbacks on Saturday, April 25th at 8pm.

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Roberts will hold a free spaghetti supper on Sunday, April 26th from 4-6:30 pm at the Roberts Gym.

Gospel singer Kelley Dupius will perform at the Paxton Church of Christ on Sunday, April 26th at 7pm. 

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the Gibson City Melvin Sibley High School on Friday, May 1st from 9-2.

The Elliott Amvets will host their Family Night on Friday, May 1st from 5-7 pm. Cost is $15 and includes chicken, fish or shrimp and two sides.

(Undated-jm) – Multiple tornadoes touched down around the area Friday evening. At least 8 were confirmed in McLean County including 2 in Bloomington-Normal, one of which hit the Rivian Plant. Another tornado was on the ground for over 30 miles. A tornado also went from near Saybrook before lifting near the Ford County line.  An EF-1 tornado tore through parts of Gibson City while another EF-1 tornado passed near Buckley. Three people were taken to the hospital after two semis were flipped on I-57 near Buckley likely related to the tornado. The Gibson City American Legion’s roof and building were damaged. Several buildings on a rural Loda Farm were also damaged by the Friday night storms.

(Springfield-jm) — Illinois lawmakers moved a wide-ranging group of bills out of their respective chambers ahead of their Friday deadline. The measures now head to their opposite ends of the General Assembly for further consideration, as they approach the end of spring session on May 31. State Representative Joyce Mason is sponsoring a measure aimed at expanding background check requirements for childcare workers. Lawmakers advanced House Bill 5492, a bill that would require insurance companies to cover hormone replacement therapy when deemed medically necessary. State Representative Katie Stuart’s proposal would expand access to treatment commonly used for a range of conditions, including menopause and certain types of cancers. House Bill 5511 aims to regulate youth access to social media, requiring companies to implement age verification measures for users. The Gov. JB Pritzker-backed measure is part of a growing effort by lawmakers to address concerns about minors’ exposure to harmful content online. Senate Bill 2427  allows school districts authority to limit or ban cellphone use during the school day.  Lawmakers are looking to pass legislation to recognize coroners and medical examiners as first responders. Senate Bill  2770 would formally classify these professionals alongside police, firefighters and emergency medical personnel.  State Representative Barbra Hernandez’s bill would give couples more power in deciding who keeps their furry companions. House Bill 4540 would give the court system authority to assign sole or joint ownership of a pet, particularly in cases such as divorce. State Representative Maurice West is supporting a measure aimed at providing housing to formerly incarcerated individuals. House Bill 624 is designed to reduce barriers to housing by offering support such as financial assistance, education and counseling.

(Springfield–dm)-According to 104th District State Representative Brandun Schweizer (R-Danville), Illinois, like many other states, is battling a first responder recruitment and retention crisis. He said that volunteers have less time and incentive to continue this level of public service and its training requirements, if their real employment is threatened.

104th District State Representative Brandun Schweizer (R. Danville

(Paxton-jm) – After over 50 years as an organization, the Paxton Community Nursery School will be shutting its doors for good at the end of the school year due to low enrollment and budget deficits. In a Facebook post Friday, the school said the circumstances over the last decade have hit them hard. 

(Buckley-jm) – A special meeting will be held tonight in Buckley to talk about the future of a proposed sewer treatment plant. The village has $16 million for the project however estimates now bring the total cost of the project up to $21 million. Village leaders are looking for federal grants and voting on a new tax to help. People in the village would have to pay $64 dollars a month, instead of the previous amount of $47 dollars.

(USDA)-Lawn mowing season is here, and perhaps the best way to take care of your lawn is to do less, according to a Cooperative Extension expert. USDA’s Rod Bain has more information

(Gilman–dm)-The Iroquois West School Board will hold their regular monthly meeting tonight.  Items on the agenda include Resolutions honoring retirees Sandy Henley, Susan Legan and Judy Wilson.  Also approval of summer camps for football, boys and girls basketball, cheer camp and girls volleyball. Also the use of the High School gym, the small gym and cafeteria on May 2nd for post prom activities.  The Board meeting will be at the High School Board room starting at 

(Chicago–jc)  Illinois U.S. Representative . Raja Krishnamoorthi, Democrat Schaumburg, has asked the U.S. Small Business Administration to launch an economic impact assessment of Operation Midway Blitz. Krishnamoorthi said the deployment of federal immigration law enforcement has driven a year-over-year revenue decline that affects state and local tax revenues

(Gordyville–jc)  The American Cancer Society’s Coaches versus Cancer event at Gordyville USA near Gifford last week  was attended by just shy of 2000 people. The event raised 690 thousand dollars. American Cancer Society Development Manager Sharla Jolly says, the raise the paddle portion, was the largest donation to date…

American Cancer Society Development Manager Sharla Jolly

A big thank you to University of Illinois Men’s Basketball Coach Brad Underwood and staff for helping with the annual event. 

(Springfield–dm)-The Illinois House Friday afternoon approved a bill to allow composting of human remains as a burial option. 88th District  State Representative Regan Deering (R-Decatur) voted against the measure and spoke against it during floor debate..

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

(Undated-jm) – Airports and travelers across the country have questions about flights being cut in the next few months, after the Federal Aviation Administration placed caps on the number of summer flights in and out of Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. The FAA is limiting daily service at the hub from an anticipated 3,000 daily flights to nearly 2,700. University of Illinois Professor Sheldon Jacobson said when you break down what it means for American Airlines and United, they’ll be cutting one in every seven flights. Jacobson said making the decision to cut flights from larger international airports or smaller regional ones will be difficult. Willard Airport officials say they have not heard of any cuts to service.

(Roberts–dm)-There will be a free produce pantry at the Roberts Gym on Friday May 15th sponsored by Jeremiah 33:6 along with a health fair sponsored by the Mennonite College of Nursing at Illinois State.  Professor Valarie Wright talks about what you can get checked at the health fair.

Professor Valarie Wright.  The Health Fair runs from 3pm to 5pm and all are welcome regardless of income

(Rantoul–jc)  The Rantoul Sports Complex continues to bring in large amounts of various sports, teams, players and fans. This past weekend, nearly 40 thousand people attended sports from soccer tournaments to baseball and softball tournaments. Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Operations Brandun Denton says the place was built to handle huge crowds including over 1 thousand parking spots…

Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Operations Brandun Denton

(Champaign–dm)-The Champaign City Council will hold their regular monthly meeting on Tuesday April 21.  Items on the agenda include, approving the FY 2026/2027 annual action plan, Reallocation of $4,138,245 of the City of Champaign Illinois 2026 private activity allocation to the Illinois Housing Development Authority. Also on the agenda is accepting a bid for the 2026 locally funded asphalt streets improvement, and approving an engineering services agreement with Clark Dietz Inc for the Champaign police fuel system and parking lot design project.  The meeting is scheduled to start at 7pm

(Paxton–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Paxton Mainstreet. The local not for profit’s main goal is to promote the city of Paxton, its businesses, local events and citizens. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says the group is preparing for its 3rd year of Free Friday night concerts at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton…

Donna Pepper says the first concert is Friday May First at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton featuring the Philo Country Opry…

Paxton Mainstreet executive Director Donna Pepper

Paxton Mainstreet is the WPXN Business of the day, today

WPXN news notes.

The Community Service Center of Northern Champaign County will hold their Spring Fling Fundraiser on Thursday, April 23rd from 5-8 pm at the Knights of Columbus in Rantoul. Activities include dinner, live music, 50/50 and meat raffle and a dessert auction. Tickets are $35 each and can be purchased by calling the Community Service Center.

Buckley Townwide Garage Sales will take place Friday, April 24th and Saturday, April 25th.

The Loda American Legion will hold their fish and chicken fry on Friday, April 24th from 4-6pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper on Friday, April 24th from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, April 25th from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

The Onarga Fire Department will hold their taco fundraiser on Saturday, April 25th from 10 until they are sold out at Durham Park. Cost is $3 per taco.

The Cadillac in Paxton will host Emo Night Live with the All American Throwbacks on Saturday, April 25th at 8pm.

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Roberts will hold a free spaghetti supper on Sunday, April 26th from 4-6:30 pm at the Roberts Gym.

Gospel singer Kelley Dupius will perform at the Paxton Church of Christ on Sunday, April 26th at 7pm. 

(Watseka–jc)  –Iroquois County Sheriff’s officials say they have arrested a Watseka man on a charge of first degree murder in connection with the death of his one month old son, Jace. On April 10th, Watseka Fire and EMS were dispatched to a rural residence near Watseka in reference to the one month old, not breathing. The infant was taken to Iroquois Memorial Hospital then Lurie’s Children's Hospital in Chicago where he died on April 13th. 22 year old Jason Ruiz of rural Watseka was taken into custody on Thursday. Authorities say the investigation remains active. Other information is pending.

(Rantoul–jc)  – Rantoul police are seeking information about a missing female from the village. 31 year old Taniya Jenkins was last seen on April 8th. She left her home in the southeast part of town She left on foot. Jenkins is a black female, black hair, 5 foot 2 inches tall weighing around 100 pounds. She was wearing a black shirt and blue jeans. Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to call Rantoul police at 217-333-8911.

(The Center Square) – The U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of the Comptroller of the Currency has released notice of a pending order to preempt the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act. The state law scheduled to take effect on July 1 would prohibit banks and credit card companies from charging swipe fees on the tax and tip portion of transactions when a consumer pays with a credit or debit card. Illinois Retail Merchants Association President and CEO Rob Karr said the rushed announcement by the federal government prioritizes the bottom line of banks and credit card companies over meaningful relief for businesses and consumers.

(Washington–jc)  What is the latest outlook for beef production and steer prices as we move through the month of April. World AgOutlook Chairman Mark Jekanowski has the numbers…

World Ag Outlook Chairman Mark Jekanowski

(Danaville–jc)  Vermilion County Republicans have elected a new leadership team for the counties citizens. In a  release, the party has put Matt Long as Chairman and Eric Lattrell as vice-chairman  The leadership says it will move forward  with a clear focus on unity, accountability, and growing grassroots involvement across the county. Their focus will be  supporting Republican candidates at every level, and ensuring Vermilion County remains a strong voice for conservative values.

(Springfield–jc)  –It was Illinois Chamber of Commerce Day at the state capitol in Springfield. 89th District State Representative Tony McCombie told chamber members that the state of Illinois has a long way to go and that does Not mean more taxes for businesses and citizens…

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

(Chicago–jc)  If you plan a trip to Chicago and will be using a taxi, get ready for higher prices. The Chicago City Council has passed an ordinance to raise taxi fares. The base fare for the first one-ninth  of a mile is 3 dollars 25 cents, but for Each one-ninth of a mile it will now be 31cents.

(The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he would like the General Assembly to move faster on legislation for the Chicago Bears, but questions about taxation loom large over a proposed megaprojects bill. When asked for an update at an event in downtown Chicago on Thursday, the governor said the discussions are still going on.  The governor said all 177 state legislators need to be in on the discussions.

(The Center Square) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security says the state’s unemployment rate reached 5% in February, up 0.1 percentage point from January and up 0.3 percentage point from the same month, one year ago.

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, total nonfarm payrolls decreased 0.3% in February.

(Champaign–jc)  – Champaign police continue to investigate a shots fired incident from earlier this week. The incident in question happened on Wednesday night just before 9pm near Collen Drive on the west side of Champaign. Upon investigation, police found shell casings and gunshot damage to several vehicles in the area. Anyone with information on this crime is asked to contact the Champaign police Department

(The Center Square) – State legislative leaders from both parties spoke to the Illinois Chamber of Commerce about the broad state of legislation and their priorities Thursday in Springfield, as the end of the General Assembly's spring session draws closer. Remarks from Senate and House leadership were driven by the topic of affordability and the state budget, with some bipartisan agreement on the issue, but disagreement on how to help Illinoisans, as Democrats want to increase revenue through taxes   and  Republicans want taxes cut.

(Rantoul–jc)  The Village of Rantoul has received a major grant for airport upgrades and more. WPXN”s Joel Cluver has the details…

Sentencing is scheduled on July 22 for a Lyons man who admitted that he used his vehicle to impede, intimidate, and interfere with the work of federal immigration agents during Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago last October.Prosecutors say Anthony Gonzalez Alvarez, 27, admitted that he drove his pickup truck into a U.S. Customs and Border Protection vehicle and filed a false police report to conceal his involvement in the collision. Gonzalez Alvarez faces a maximum sentence of three years in prison.

(Thawville–jc)  The village of Thawville becomes the center of the universe on Saturday with its annual Thawville Community sale. It is the 54th annual sale in the village that starts at 10 sharp on Saturday morning says Thawville Community Sale Spokesperson Becky Warlow…

Thawville Community Sale Spokesperson Becky Warlow

(Gordyville–jc)  The American Cancer Society’s Coaches versus Cancer event at Gordyville USA near Gifford Wednesday night, saw over 1 thousand 9 hundred people in attendance. American Cancer Society Development Manager Sharla Jolly says they raised over 690 thousand dollars. Jolly talks about an Illini signed item…

American Cancer Society Development Manager Sharla Jolly

A big thank you to University of Illinois Men’s Basketball Coach Brad Underwood and staff for helping with the annual event. 

(Champaign–jc)  –– The City of Champaign is seeking input on its Homelessness Prevention Blueprint Snapshot; an initiative aimed at addressing housing instability and making homelessness rare, brief, and non-recurring in Champaign. 

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 23 out of every 10,000 people in the United States experienced homelessness in 2024. That statistic highlights the  need to address this challenge.  The City launched the Blueprint Snapshot survey available until May 15. To help with the survey, go on line at engage-champaign-dot- org

(Rantoul–jc)  40 thousand, that is the number of athletes, families and spectators that will fill the diamonds and fields at the Rantoul Sports Complex this weekend. Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Operations Brandun Denton says the number of teams…180…

Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Operations Brandun Denton

(Danville-jc)  –  An old fashioned Hymn sing is set for a Danville Church on Sunday. The event starts at 6pm on Sunday at the Danville First Nazarene Church. Event organizer Rich Stipp invites the public to sing along…

Danville Hymn Sing Spokesperson Rich Stipp

The Danville First Nazarene Church is located on North Vermilion Street in the city. 

(Gibson City–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Gibson Area Hospital and Health Services. Gibson Area Hospital’s footprint in the area continues to grow with new services offered and also with new buildings and clinics throughout Central Illinois. Gibson Area Hospital Spokesperson Bill Kirby provides some insight into the growth of Gibson Area Hospital and Health Services…

Bill Kirby says plans are underway for the August live concert with Nightranger and Rick Springfield. Kirby says the concerts are one good thing that came out of the pandemic…

Gibson Area Hospital and Health Services Spokesperson Bill Kirby

WPXN News notes…

The Gibson Area Hospital Foundation will hold their Glo Bingo fundraiser on Friday, April 17th at 6:30 pm at the Kruse Center. Tickets are $30 each.

The EAA Chapter 29 will host a Young Eagles Flight Rally on Saturday, April 18th from 9-11 am at the Rantoul National Aviation Center.

The Thawville Community Sale will take place on Saturday, April 18th starting at 10 am.

 The Champaign County Forest Preserve will hold an International Dark Sky Week Celebration on Saturday, April 18th from 7-10:30 pm at Middlefork Forest Preserve.

The Community Service Center of Northern Champaign County will hold their Spring Fling Fundraiser on Thursday, April 23rd from 5-8 pm at the Knights of Columbus in Rantoul. Activities include dinner, live music, 50/50 and meat raffle and a dessert auction. Tickets are $35 each and can be purchased by calling the Community Service Center.

Buckley Townwide Garage Sales will take place Friday, April 24th and Saturday, April 25th.

(Springfield–jc)  It was tax day on Wednesday. Several conservative Republicans in Springfield  say raising taxes, again, is on the agenda of Democrats in Springfield.  Paying more in taxes seems to be  good for Democrats, but not for Illinois families. 64th District State Representative Tom Weber, Republican from Lake Villa  says the democrats in Springfield have raised 49 different taxes on citizens…

64th District State Representative Tom Weber, Republican from Lake Villa

Weber says the democrats are in the majority and some new taxes that could become law include…a campfire tax, bag tax, ammo tax, cell tower tax and digital ad tax. Lawmakers are in Springfield working on the next fiscal year budget

(Springfield–jc)  – Illinois , Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity  announced just under 5 million dollars in grants for 66 grantees through three tourism grant programs Among the grants was a 29 thousand dollar grant for the city of Pontiac and a 100 thousand dollar grant for the Champaign County Convention and Visitors Bureau. The Bloomington Normal Visitors Bureau also received a 100 thousand dollar tourism grant.

(Champaign–jc)  –The final two weeks of dates for the fifth annual prom dress giveaway organized by former Champaign County Recorder of Deeds Mike Ingram have been set. The next opportunities are Thursday and then running through Tuesday April 28th. The location of the giveaway is at 41 East University in Champaign. Over the first 4 years of the program, over 4 thousand dresses have been offered to high school students for free.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Buckley Loda school system now has an official wrestling program. The P-B-L board gave the O-K at their meeting last night. The new sport will be offered for the first time with the next school year beginning in August.

(Bloomington–jc)  –In its 97th year, the Gamma Phi Circus at Illinois State University will present its 2026 production titled, “Carnival of Dreams” on Friday and Saturday. Performances at CEFCU Arena are 1pm and 7pm each day. Tickets are available online or by calling t 309-438-8000. Tickets may also be purchased at the door.

(Paxton–jc)  A free health fair event is set for Paxton later today. The East Central Illinois Community Action Agency is hosting the event from 11am to 2pm at Veteran’s Square in downtown Paxton. The groups  Lead Family and Community Development Specialist Tori Brigham says the event is free to attend…

East Central Illinois Community Action Agency’s Lead Family and Community Development Specialist Tori Brigham 

(Springfield–jc) If going to some museums in the state are on your list of day vacations, there is one way to get some free tickets. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington, has the details…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

(Rantoul–jc)  – The Rantoul Township High School board policy committee will review bus conduct, exemptions from Physical Education classes and extracurricular activities when they meet this evening. The Meeting comes to order at 6 tonight at the high school 

(Hoopeston–jc)  The deadline to check out a rubber duck for Hoopeston Public Library's Duck Decorating Contest has been extended.You now have through Saturday to pick up a duck at the Hoopeston Library. The returned decorated ducks will be on display at the Hoopeston library from April 20th though April 25.

Prizes will be awarded in several age groups.

(Springfield–jc)  – – Illinois gun owners are pressing their legislators to oppose gun regulations and some elected officials are on their side.Illinois Gun Owner Lobby Day started at a convention center in Springfield Wednesday to hear from gun rights advocates. 101st District State Representative Chris Miller, Republican from Hindsboro addressed the crowd….

101st District State Representative Chris Miller, Republican from Hindsboro.

(Watseka–jc)  Authorities in the Iroquois County city of Watseka are reporting some copper wire thefts. Some of those thefts are associated with trailers parked in the city. Anyone with information is asked to call the Watseka Police Department at 815-432-2433

(Springfield–jc)  One area state representative is blasting Democrat Governor J B Pritzker for failing to fully fund the Local Government Distributive Fund or provide proper funding for local schools. 88th District State Representative Regan Deering, Republican from Decator says Governor Pritzker continues to deflect the blame…

88th District State Representative Regan Deering, republican from Decatur

(Washington–jc)  –USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey discusses notable state topsoil moisture very short to short condition ratings for the period ending April 12.

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Springfield–jc) The NASA Standard Initiator made by Chemring Energetic Devices in Downers Grove has won the 2026 Makers Madness contest for The Coolest Thing Made in Illinois. The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association announced the winner on Wednesday from a field of more than 100 entries.

The device was used in the recent space launch-Artemus 2. 

(Springfield–jc) The Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association is urging businesses and farmers to contact state leaders on a proposed bill in Springfield. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Springfield–jc)  –The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says youth turkey hunters harvested 2,318 birds during the four-day 2026 season, setting a record for the third straight year.

(Springfield–jc)  –Participation also reached an all-time high, with 7,369 youth permits sold. The top counties for youth harvest were Jefferson with 75 turkeys, Fayette with 74 and Marion with 68. 5 Turkeys were harvested in Champaign County, 7 in Iroquois County and 8 in Vermilion County. There was one turkey harvested in Ford County last year, but none this year.

(Gilman–jc) Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Pizza Palace in downtown Gilman. The business has been in operation since 1985 and features a large varieties of pizzas from thin to pan to sicilian and stuffed crust and also with your favorite ingredients. Pizza Palace of Gilman Owner Eric Bull says hours are Wednesdays through Sundays starting at 4pm…

Eric Bull goes on to talk about…pizza…

Pizza Palace of Gilman Owner Eric Bull

The business opens at 4pm Wednesday through Sundays. Carryout number is 815-265-4321

Pizza Palace of Gilman is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

WPXN News notes…

The Paxton Emergency Response Service will hold their all you can eat chicken and noodle supper on Thursday, April 16th from 4:30-6:30 pm. Dinner includes chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes, green beans, dessert and drink. Cost is $11 for adults, $6 for kids 6-13. Deliveries available in town by calling 217-379-0349.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on Friday, April 17th from 11:30-5:30.

The Gibson Area Hospital Foundation will hold their Glo Bingo fundraiser on Friday, April 17th at 6:30 pm at the Kruse Center. Tickets are $30 each.

The EAA Chapter 29 will host a Young Eagles Flight Rally on Saturday, April 18th from 9-11 am at the Rantoul National Aviation Center.

The Thawville Community Sale will take place on Saturday, April 18th starting at 10 am.

The Champaign County Forest Preserve will hold an International Dark Sky Week Celebration on Saturday, April 18th from 7-10:30 pm at Middlefork Forest Preserve.

(Undated–jc) Today is Tax Day. taxpayers have until midnight tonight to pay their taxes on time. One option is obtaining an extension. Tax Day was established in 1913 and has been put on April 15th, since 1955.

(Springfield-jm) – On Tuesday, the Illinois Supreme Court announced amendments to a number of Supreme Court Rules to address some unmet legal needs across the state. Specifically, “legal deserts” have become an issue in largely rural areas across the United States. These are described as areas where there are a limited number of practicing attorneys. Of the 8,327 Illinois resident attorneys admitted to practice between 2020-2024; just under 92 percent are  practicing in or around Cook County . As a result, many legal offices have trouble recruiting and retaining attorneys. The amended rules are intended to help address both civil and criminal legal needs.

(Paxton–jc)  Money from a backpack was reported stolen in downtown Paxton on Tuesday. According to witnesses, a bag was placed in the Lennington Realty business, and was later found in the downtown area by local authorities. An undisclosed amount of cash was taken in the theft. Local authorities continue to investigate the theft. 

(Tolono–jc)  One area school was in E-learning on Tuesday due to a water main break at its high school. The Unity of Tolono district  building was closed yesterday due to the water issue. The issue only affected the high school as the other schools in the district had school as normal. Students and parents  are reminded to check school instruction pages,  on classes. 

(Springfield-jm) – Advocates across the state were in Springfield Tuesday, calling on state lawmakers to save SNAP benefits for nearly 2 million Illinoisans. Their push comes as federal cuts included in the Big Beautiful Bill could strip benefits from up to 250,000 Illinois families as soon as May 1. One plan could create an emergency assistance fund for one-time payments of $600, or three months of the average SNAP benefit, for Illinoisans at risk of losing benefits due to the new work requirements. A separate bill would expand food assistance for 16,000 lawfully present immigrants who are set to lose SNAP benefits under federal eligibility changes. .

(Springfield–jc)  106th District State Representative Jason  Bunting, Republican from Emington, is disputing Governor J-B Pritzker's claim that local school boards are to blame for Illinois' record-high property tax rates. Bunting says it is the governor's policies that are putting higher tax pressures on local governments and school districts, driving up costs for everyone.  

106th district State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican, from Emmington

Bunting also  pointed out that House Republicans have filed numerous bills to bring property tax relief to Illinois residents, but Democrats refuse to act on them.

(Washington–jm) – The war in Iran is causing strain on farmers around the country, impacting diesel and fertilizer prices during planting season. It’s causing some farmers in other states to switch their crops. The USDA released its most current estimates last week. Officials said they expect less corn planting compared to last year, but farmers are slated to plant more soybeans. Diesel prices will be a factor for farmers bottom-line, costing them more to run farm equipment this year. 

(Vermilion County-jm) – Discussions have begun on how much county officials being elected this fall will be paid.  The Vermilion County Finance and Personnel Committee is proposing a 3-percent hike.  The compensation for officeholders in the November 3, 2026 General Election must be set at least 180 days before election day. The salary for the Sheriff and Regional Superintendent of Schools is set by the State.  Other local offices on the ballot this fall include the County Treasurer, County Clerk, Supervisor of Assessments, Board of Review Chairman and two commissioners, and County Board Chairman.Under a proposal being considered, pay for the County Treasurer, County Clerk, and Supervisor of Assessments would increase in steps from just under 90 thousand dollars to 95 thousand dollars by 20-30.

(Washington-jm) – Freeze events are forecasted to follow a stretch of extreme heat in parts of the Southeast quadrant of the country this week, raising concerns for winter wheat crops in impacted areas. Rod Bain reports…

(Chicago–jc) –– Attorney General Kwame Raoul Tuesday announced a national settlement in principle with Albertsons that, once final, would require the grocery chain to pay more than $773 million to address its role in the opioid crisis. In addition to the financial terms, a final settlement remains contingent on agreement on critical business practice changes.  To date, national investigations and litigation against the pharmaceutical industry over the opioid crisis have led to more than $50 billion in settlements, with Illinois’ share at more than $1.4 billion.

(Springfield-jm) – State senators passed a bill Tuesday to protect survivors of domestic violence from digital harassment and surveillance. The plan would update the state's definition of harassment to include conduct like doxxing, electronic tracking, repeated surveillance and digitally altered sexual images. 

Sponsors said the bill also allows survivors to request a remote order of protection hearing so they don't have to be in the same room as their abuser. The legislation also allows domestic violence survivors to expand their order of protection as long as necessary, even if that means indefinitely.

(Springfield-jm) –  A new statewide poll shows strong bipartisan support for the proposed POWER Act, aimed at increasing oversight of data centers across Illinois. According to the survey, nearly 70 percent of likely 2026 voters support the legislation after hearing a brief description, with support climbing to 75 percent as voters learn more about the bill’s details. Backing spans across political parties, including Independents and Republicans, as well as voters outside the Chicagoland area. The measure, supported by the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition, would require data centers to be more accountable for their energy and water use, limit so-called backroom deals, and ensure facilities supply their own clean energy. .

(Washington-jm) – The USDA's latest agricultural trade mission is one of its largest ever with the destination - the Philippines. Rod Bain reports…

(Undated-jm) – Law enforcement, Fire and EMS departments are recognizing the critical role of emergency dispatchers during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, observed April 12–18, 2026. They are joining together to honor the professionals who answer emergency calls and help coordinate lifesaving responses across the state. National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week is observed each year during the second week of April, recognizing the individuals who often serve as the first point of contact in emergencies and help bring order to chaotic situations.

(Rantoul–jc)  – It’s next Thursday. That is the day for a fundraiser for the Community Service Center of Rantoul. The event runs from 5pm to 8pm at the Rantoul Knights of Columbus Hall in the village. Money raised helps support the many programs covered by the center. Community Service Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford provides some insight into the many programs served from their Rantoul location…

Rantoul based Community Services Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford.

Tickets for the event are available on line or calling the center. 

(Chicago–jc)  O’Hare International Airport in Chicago has reclaimed its position as the busiest airfield in the world, according to new data from Airports Council International World. O’Hare recorded 860,015 aircraft operations in 2025, a 10 percent increase over 20-24. The second busiest airport is, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International.

(Springfield–jc)  A push to consolidate government units in the state could have a wide range of effects on local units of government in rural Illinois. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Gifford–jc) Gordyville U S A will be a busy place tonight with the 20-26 Coaches versus Cancer Kickin Cancer Dinner and Auction hosted by University of Illinois Men’s Basketball Coach Brad Underwood. Doors open at 5 this afternoon with great food, auctions and representatives of the University of  Illinois Fighting Illini basketball program. The event is sold out again this year. 

(Gibson City–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Allens Computer Repair of Gibson City and Melvin. The business started in 2008. Owner Allen Moore says the decision to go into computers was to help support his family…

Allen Moore says he provides repair an A to Z approach for services and also helps buy and build computer systems…

Allens Computer Repair of Gibson City and Melvin Owner Allen Moore.

The business number to remember is 217-530-7678

Allens Computer Repair of Gibson City and Melvin is the WPXN Business of the day, today.

WPXN News notes…

The East Central Illinois Community Action Agency will hold a health and resource fair on Thursday, April 16th from 11-2 at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton. Call Beth Badger at 217-554-9122 for more information.

The Paxton Emergency Response Service will hold their all you can eat chicken and noodle supper on Thursday, April 16th from 4:30-6:30 pm. Dinner includes chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes, green beans, dessert and drink. Cost is $11 for adults, $6 for kids 6-13. Deliveries available in town by calling 217-379-0349.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on Friday, April 17th from 11:30-5:30.

The Gibson Area Hospital Foundation will hold their Glo Bingo fundraiser on Friday, April 17th at 6:30 pm at the Kruse Center. Tickets are $30 each.

The EAA Chapter 29 will host a Young Eagles Flight Rally on Saturday, April 18th from 9-11 am at the Rantoul National Aviation Center.

The Thawville Community Sale will take place on Saturday, April 18th starting at 10 am.

(Undated-jm) – Most Central Illinois drivers won’t see gas under $4 per gallon following another week of rising prices. GasBuddy said the average price of gas rose by 10 cents $4.27 to $4.37 and nationwide, the average price of regular gas stayed even at $4.07. National diesel prices rose by four cents, $5.58 to $5.62. Oil hovers just under $100, though US stocks hold steady on hopes for US-Iran talks

The $4.23 regular average is 52 cents higher than it was one month ago and $1.24 higher than the start of the conflict in Iran at the end of February.

(Springfield-jm) — Illinois House Democrats passed legislation to allow undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition at public universities. This comes several months after the Trump Administration filed a lawsuit aimed at blocking the state from lowering the cost of college for undocumented immigrants. House Bill 5093 would require university boards to treat undocumented students as Illinois residents if they attended a public or private high school in the state and graduated from the high school or received a GED. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

(Springfield–jc)  One measure to put serial numbers on ammunition has failed in Springfield. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington says the proposal did Not make it out of a house committee last week…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Police Department is still investigating an attempted retail theft that happened last summer. Crime Stoppers is seeking the public’s help. The incident occurred on July 14th last year at the Prospect Avenue Walmart store. Store officials said a man filled a cart with merchandise, scanned and bagged all of the items and then pretended to make a payment before trying to leave. He was  confronted by Wal mart staff and fled the scene. The merchandise added up to almost $900 in value. The suspect, recorded on store surveillance cameras, appeared to be a white man, approximately 35 to 40 years old, with a beard and several arm tattoos. He was wearing a blue and white Kimes Ranch ballcap, a black and green shirt and black pants. Anyone with information about this or any other crime are ask to call Champaign County Crimestoppers.

(Danville–jc)   The Reverend Frank McCullough of Danville will officially announce his campaign for Mayor of Danville this coming Monday at the 3 Kings of Peace Mentoring Center. in Danville.  McCullough is a lifelong resident of the city, Pastor of Mount Olive Baptist Church, first vice president of the Danville NAACP, U.S. Army veteran, and co-founder of 3 Kings of Peace.  McCullough says he is running because he cares deeply about Danville and wants to serve the people of this city.

(Thawville–jc)  It’s been done 53 times before and on Saturday it is number 54. The 54th annual Thawville Community Sale takes place on Saturday in the village says spokesperson Becky Warlow…

Thawville Community Sale Spokesperson Becky Warlow.

(Rantoul-jm) — Rantoul City Schools and the University of Illinois College of Education are partnering to host a Family Math Fun Night. The event will be held at Broadmeadow Elementary on Monday, April 20th from 5:30-7pm and is open to all Broadmeadow Elementary families.

(Roberts–dm)-The Mennonite College of Nursing at ISU along with Jeremiah 

33:6 will be sponsoring a free produce pantry and Health fair.  Founder of Jeremiah 33:6 Valarie Wright has the details.

Founder of Jeremiah 33:6 Valarie Wright. Parking at the Roberts gym is free, and all are welcome regardless of income

(Springfield–jc)  – Illinois workers involved in a labor dispute could soon be eligible for unemployment benefits. State Representative, Dave Vella, Democrat from  Loves Park, says his proposal is a minor change to the Unemployment Insurance Act that limits how long workers are disqualified from receiving unemployment benefits during a labor dispute-related work stoppage. The measure covers all work stoppages after two weeks.  Opponents include the Illinois Chamber of Commerce and associations representing manufacturers, retail merchants, construction, trucking and transportation builders. An Illinois House committee is scheduled to consider an amended version of the bill on Wednesday.

(Springfield-jm) – With the cost of e-books rising across the state, some Illinois lawmakers are working to prevent publishers from putting unfair restrictions on libraries. House Bill 5236, also known as the Digital Protection Act, is stopping publishers of e-books and audio books from limiting a library’s ability to determine loan periods. It also prevents retailers from charging libraries more than the public for the same item, and limiting the number of e-book software licenses a library can get.

(USDA–dm)-The USDA agency overseeing the nation's federal crop insurance celebration celebrates an anniversary this month. Rod Bain has the story

(East St Louis–jc)  –A two-day crime suppression detail in St. Clair and Madison counties last week led to 20 arrests, 42 criminal charges and 12 firearms seized. Illinois State Police say the effort was focused on East St. Louis and neighboring Metro East communities last week.

(Melvin–jc)  The Ford County Fair Queen pageant is organizing for the 20-26 Fair in Melvin. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Hoopeston-jm) — A Hoopeston man has been arrested on arson charges following a house fire. Crews were called to a vacant home on fire near 4th and Seminary. An investigation revealed the cause to be arson. 34 year old Skylar Cannon was arrested in connection to the fire.

(Chicago–jc)  –  According to an Illinois Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act notice, 107 Southwest Airlines workers will be losing their jobs at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago. The notice follows Southwest’s announcement last month that it would no longer operate at O’Hare. The airline continues to serve Chicago at Midway Airport.

(Gibson City–dm)-The Gibson City Restoration Association will be sponsoring a Sip and Shop Wine Hop on Saturday May 2nd.  Gibson City Restoration Association President Sharon Heavilin tells us how you can purchase tickets.

Gibson City Restoration Association President Sharon Heavilin.

(Cullom–jc)  Tri Point District School board members are expected to approve a bid for district network equipment when they meet on Wednesday in Kempton. 

Approving the consolidated districts plan and setting monthly meeting hours are also agenda items. The Tri Point Board of Education is set to meet at 6-30pm on Wednesday in Kempton

(Springfield–jc)  – The Illinois State Board of Education wants almost 11 Billion dollars in state funds for the 2027 fiscal year, saying it wants to continue efforts to better fund public school districts in order to provide better outcomes for Illinois students.  According to department leadership, the request is an increase from current year funding, but it would be partly offset by a transfer in oversight for some grants to the new Department of Early Childhood. The increase in funding requested is roughly 470 million more than the previous year.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Park District is set to meet tonight at the park district building at 5-30pm Among the agenda items is to seek to fill a vacancy on the board. Those interested may contact the park district office or attend tonight’s meeting. 

(Rantoul–jc)  Rantoul Village Leaders are expected to approve a construction contract with Grunlo Building Incorporated in the amount of just over 8 million 103 thousand dollars when they meet tonight in monthly session . Buying steel poles for the Rantoul electric department and purchasing an aviation fuel system for the airport are also agenda items. The Rantoul Village Board meets at 6 tonight in the village board meeting room

(Cissna Park–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is In the Nick of Time, located in downtown Cissna Park. Owner Nick Osborn and crew have a large showroom filled with a wide variety of major name brand appliances ready for delivery. In the Nick of Time Owner Nick Osborn talks about how the store got its name…

Osborn says they have an appliance service special going on right now……

In the Nick of Time Store Owner Nick Osborn

The store is open 8am to 5pm Monday through Friday in downtown Cissna Park. In the Nick of Time does air conditioning, H-Vac to Duct Cleaning and more.

In the Nick of Time, the WPXN Business of the Day, today. 

WPXN News notes…

The Thawville Community Sale will take place on Saturday, April 18th starting at 10 am.

The Champaign County Forest Preserve will hold an International Dark Sky Week Celebration on Saturday, April 18th from 7-10:30 pm at Middlefork Forest Preserve.

The Community Service Center of Northern Champaign County will hold their Spring Fling Fundraiser on Thursday, April 23rd from 5-8 pm at the Knights of Columbus in Rantoul. Activities include dinner, live music, 50/50 and meat raffle and a dessert auction. Tickets are $35 each and can be purchased by calling the Community Service Center.

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

The East Central Illinois Community Action Agency will hold a health and resource fair on Thursday, April 16th from 11-2 at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton. Call Beth Badger at 217-554-9122 for more information.

The Paxton Emergency Response Service will hold their all you can eat chicken and noodle supper on Thursday, April 16th from 4:30-6:30 pm. Dinner includes chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes, green beans, dessert and drink. Cost is $11 for adults, $6 for kids 6-13. Deliveries available in town by calling 217-379-0349.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on Friday, April 17th from 11:30-5:30.

(Springfield-jm) – State lawmakers want to help you see all of the fees included in your utility bill. The House unanimously passed a bill to require the state to create an online portal detailing utility charges to consumers, separate from delivery and supply charges. The website should include the statutory authority for charges remitted to the state or retained by utility companies, the amount collected each year and a detailed accounting of how funds are spent. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill heading to the Illinois Senate could address growing frustration with digital coupons for grocery stores. Lawmakers originally hoped to require grocery stores with digital coupons to have a paper option easily accessible for customers. Their updated plan will require retailers to honor digital promotions through several redemption methods. Those include 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.

(USDA–dm)-4-H students from across the nation participate in an annual working conference - some creating presentations focused on solutions based on technology and artificial intelligence.  Rod Bain has the story.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign firefighters battled a fire at an abandoned apartment complex Saturday. The fire happened at the unoccupied Champaign Park Apartments off Country Fair Drive. The apartments were slated to be demolished. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

(Kankakee-jc) –  The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved a disaster declaration for severe storms that impacted Kankakee and five other Illinois counties on March 10 and 11. The declaration allows homeowners, renters, businesses and some nonprofits to apply for low-interest loans for damages not covered by insurance. A statement from Governor  J.B. Pritzker’s office says the main outreach center  will be in Aroma Park.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man accused of shooting his girlfriend last year was deemed unfit to stand trial. 21 year old Noah Allen  was in court for a status hearing on whether he was fit for trial. Allen faces attempted murder and other charges in connection to the October 7th shooting of his girlfriend. He is due back in court May 7th.

(Springfield–jc)  88th District State Representative Regan Deering, Republican from Decatur passed legislation out of the Illinois House this week that works to improve transparency in child abuse and neglect investigations conducted by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. Reaction from the legislation coming from Representative Deering…

88th District State Representative Regan Deering, Republican from Decatur

(Springfield–jc)  The Illinois Arts Council in partnership with the Office of the Governor  awarded more than 325  thousand dollars in grants for two dozen public art projects in the state. They will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. These grants are part of a broader statewide effort led by the Illinois America 250 Commission to celebrate the nation's historic anniversary. The Visit Champaign County Foundation and the city of Pontiac were each awarded a 15 thousand dollar grant. 

(Rantoul–jc)  –  It’s new textbooks for the math department at Rantoul Township High School. The school board meets tonight on the subject. The board will also look at purchasing an activities bus and look to amend this year's budget. The Rantoul Township High School Board of Education meets at 6 tonight at the high school. 

(Chicago-jm) – A tangled political fight over whether Chicago’s public schools will hold classes on May Day is coming down to the wire, confusing tens of thousands of students and parents. The influential teachers union, an ally of Mayor Brandon Johnson, wants educators to participate in protests on May 1st, coinciding with worker’s rights rallies worldwide. However, the district’s new CEO has come out and said she has no plans to cancel class saying every minute students are in the classroom is vital. The school board could override her with a vote on April 23rd. The teachers union says they would use May 1st as a professional development day, swapping for one scheduled on June 5th. The union has filed a grievance over the matter.

(Springfield-jm) – Environmental advocates are rallying to support stronger protections for Illinois wetlands. House Bill 3596 would criminalize dumping dredged or fill material into state jurisdictional wetlands. Violators could face fines up to $10,000 per day. Advocates say federal changes have made state level protections more critical. One of those changes, includes a Supreme Court decision that ruled a wetland must consist of a continuous surface connection to navigable waters. A September report found that 72 percent of Illinois wetlands are no longer covered under the Clean Water Act and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources estimates roughly 90 percent of Illinois wetlands have already been lost.

(Springfield–dm)-Property taxes in Illinois has been a topic for discussion among legislators in Springfield.  106th District State State Representative Jason Bunting Republican from Emington says there is a lot of back and forth discussions as to why property taxes are so high.

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting Republican from Emington

(Paxton-jm) – No serious injuries were reported following a two vehicle accident in Paxton Saturday afternoon. It happened at the intersection of Center and Union.

(Paxton–jc)  Ford County leaders will look to hire a deputy coordinator when they meet tonight in Paxton. A look at the Ford County employee handbook and the next step to fill the county’s clerk and recorder position is also a topic for discussion. The Ford County Board meets at 6 tonight in the sheriff’s board room at the Ford County Jail in Paxton . 

(Hoopeston-jm) – Firefighters from several departments were called to a house in Hoopeston for a fire. Crews from Hoopeston, Wellington and Rossville responded to the fire on East Seminary Avenue. No injuries were reported.. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.

(Chicago–jc)  – According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform, Illinoisans paid an estimated $21.3 billion in lawsuit costs in 2022, or $4,281 per household. Tort costs in Wisconsin, Iowa, Kentucky and Indiana all came in under $3,000 per household, according to a Brattle Group study cited by the chamber. Missouri’s per-household cost was $3,387.

(Paxton–jc)  Paxton City leaders will decide what streets will be upgraded or repaired with motor fuel tax money when they meet in,  monthly session. Approving liquor licenses and a service agreement with the Vandevander company is also on the agenda. The Paxton City Council meets at 7 tonight on the second floor of city hall. 

(Kankakee–jc)  The 6th Annual “Brave, Bold and Believed” Art show continues its run at the Kankakee County Museum through May 2nd. The exhibit is free to attend and features the works by sexual violence survivors says Clove Alliance Executivve Director Tracy Noe Slah…

Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracy Noe Slah. The art show exhibit is available during normal Kankakee Library hours

(The Center Square) – A federal appeals court heard oral arguments last week as judges consider former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s appeal of his conviction on 10 counts of public corruption. The U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals took the case under advisement on Thursday afternoon following a hearing at the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago. Madigan defense attorney Amy Saharia said the appellate court should reverse Madigan’s conviction because counts related to ComEd were too vague, and because the government failed to prove quid pro quo related to a state board seat.

(Loda–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Hart’s Greenhouse in rural Loda. Gene and Peggy Hart have operated the local business since 1978. They started with one greenhouse and now have a total of 13 greenhouses. Owner Gene Hart talks about the start of the business in 1978…

The 13 greenhouses filled with a wide variety of garden plants, flowers and more.  Owner Gene Hart says the business is a “passion” for his family and they also have the best customers…

Harts Greenhouse of rural Loda owner Gene Hart

They are open from 8am to 6pm daily through the Spring. 

Harts Greenhouse of rural Loda is the WPXN Business of the Day today. 

WPXN News notes…

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

The 2025 Coaches versus Cancer Kickin Cancer Dinner and Auction hosted by University of Illinois Men’s Basketball Coach Brad Underwood will be held Wednesday, April 15th at Gordyville USA. Doors open at 5pm.

The East Central Illinois Community Action Agency will hold a health and resource fair on Thursday, April 16th from 11-2 at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton. Call Beth Badger at 217-554-9122 for more information.

The Paxton Emergency Response Service will hold their all you can eat chicken and noodle supper on Thursday, April 16th from 4:30-6:30 pm. Dinner includes chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes, green beans, dessert and drink. Cost is $11 for adults, $6 for kids 6-13. Deliveries available in town by calling 217-379-0349.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on Friday, April 17th from 11:30-5:30.

The Gibson Area Hospital Foundation will hold their Glo Bingo fundraiser on Friday, April 17th at 6:30 pm at the Kruse Center. Tickets are $30 each.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois House Democrats passed a bill to restrict where the federal government can put ICE detention centers. The plan states the detention and processing facilities cannot be located within 1,500 feet of any home, apartment complex, school, daycare center, public park or church. House Republicans say this is another example of Democrats picking a fight with the Trump Administration instead of working with the federal government to resolve issues.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois drivers who have their license suspended for speeding or reckless driving violations could have an alternative under legislation being considered in the Statehouse. House Democrats are pushing a bill that would allow drivers to have a speed control device installed in their car rather than having their license suspended.  If approved, they would have to pay a $30 monthly fee to have the device installed in their car. They would be required to use the device for one year after their first suspension, two years after their second suspension and three years after three or more suspensions.

(Springfield–jc)  Several conservative members of the Illinois House are sponsoring legislation to provide sales tax relief on gas purchases in the state. 88th District State Representative  Regan Deering, Republican from Decatur says Democrat polices of tax gas and then tax more starting July First, is  plaguing Illinois families and businesses…

88th District State Representative Regan Deering, Republican from Decatur

Deering is co-sponsoring House Bill 57-38 which provides  a six-month temporary gas sales tax holiday from July through the end of the year 

(Chatsworth-jm) – A Chatsworth man has been arrested on 20 child pornography related charges. Amtelmo Morales-Arellano was arrested after police executed a search warrant at his home following a cyber tip. He was found in possession of more than 20 child pornographic videos. He is facing 20 counts of possession of child sexual abuse material. 

(Rantoul-jm) – The village of Rantoul is cracking down on speeding after several complaints. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third has ordered the police department to focus on school zones, high traffic areas and known speeding locations. The goal is to get people to slow down and stop driving while distracted.

(Roberts–jc) Wanted…vendors, food trucks and crafters. That is on the list for this year’s Roberts Fun Day. Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Jessa Loveall says they have some participants, and would like additional vendors and crafters…

Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Jessa Loveall. The 20-26 Roberts Fun Day is set for Saturday June 4th around the Roberts Gym in the village. 

(Champaign–jc)  – Champaign Police have arrested a second Champaign teenager related to a February  shooting incident.  The arrest stems from a shooting on February 18th along  Stratford Drive in Champaign.  Authorities assisted a 26 year old victim from the shooting, who was taken to a local hospital. That victim continues to recover from his injuries. A 17-year-old was arrested during the service of a court-authorized search warrant  Initial charges in the arrest included Aggravated Battery with a Firearm and Attempted Murder. Two firearms were located and taken into evidence at that time. This morning,  a 16-year-old was arrested during the execution of a court-authorized search warrant in the 900 Block of Fairoaks Drive. The juvenile faces charges related to the original investigation. Because the suspects are juveniles, state law prohibits the release of additional identifying information.

(Bradley–jc)  –Illinois State Police continue to investigate a fatal, officer-involved shooting that happened in Bradley on Wednesday afternoon.Police say Bradley officers responded to a well-being check and encountered a man with a bladed weapon, who continued to advance on officers and disobeyed orders to stop. The officers discharged their weapons at the suspect, who was pronounced dead at an area hospital.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois House Democrats passed a plan to expand youth civic engagement in honor of Reverend Jesse Jackson. The proposal could ensure all high schools offer students of voting age the opportunity to register during the school day in a safe, accessible and nonpartisan environment. Republicans say parents should be with students when they register to vote.

(Springfield-jm) – A ban on rental junk fees is one step closer to becoming reality in Illinois. The House passed legislation banning rental junk fees and requires transparency for leases. Sponsors say renters shouldn’t be surprised by charges included in their rent, such as fees for after hours service requests, renewing a lease or routine maintenance. The bill states that all non-optional fees should be explicitly disclosed on the first page of a lease agreement. Tenants would not be liable to pay fees if they are not shown on the first page of a lease. Republicans say they appreciate the intent of the proposal but worry there could be unintended consequences.

(Springfield–dm)--The Illinois legislators are having a back and forth discussion on property taxes in Illinois.  106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington explains.

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington.

(Champaign-jm) – A Unit 4 school bus and a motorcycle were involved in an accident in Champaign Thursday afternoon. It happened at the intersection of Bradley Avenue and Bluegrass Lane. The motorcycle driver received medical attention. The bus driver was ticketed for failure to yield.

(Rantoul–jc)  St Malachy Catholic school in Rantoul has their Spring Fling fundraiser tomorrow at the school.  The doors open at 5pm with the dinner at 6pm and then its auction time. St Malachy School Marketing Director Karley Combest says their “raise the paddle” portion of the night will help with a  new reading curriculum…

St Malachy School Rantoul Marketing Director Karley Combest

There is still time to get your tickets to benefit Christian education at St Malachy’s in Rantoul

(Urbana-jm) – The University of Illinois campus will be buzzing with people this weekend. The Grainger College of Engineering will hold their open house today and tomorrow. Due to the event, there will be road closures. Springfield Avenue will be closed between Wright Street and Mathews Avenue. Mathews Avenue will be closed between Springfield and Green. Beckman Institute will also have an open house this weekend. And it’s Moms Weekend on the U of I campus.

(Gibson City–dm)-The Gibson City Restoration Association is sponsoring a Sip and Shop Wine Hop on Saturday May 2nd.  Gibson City Restoration Association President Sharon Heavilin has the details.

Gibson City Restoration President Sharon Heavilin.  $20 advance tickets are available at Sid & Sadies, and A Renee. Or you can contact Sharon Heavilin at 217-249-8103

(Washington-jm) – A program that helps low income households pay their power bills could see significant cuts. Under the Trump Administration's fiscal year 2027 budget proposal, the program would see a $4 billion reduction in funding, essentially wiping the program out.

The Center Square) – Illinois House Republicans say they will not support any Chicago Bears stadium deal or megaprojects legislation without statewide property tax relief. In a letter to Gov. J.B. Pritzker and the General Assembly, the GOP state representatives, say they want property tax referendums to appear only on November ballots, and they want an end to back door referendums or bond rollovers that allow governments to raise taxes without asking voters.

(Buckley–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Abbe Insurance of Buckley. Larry Abbe has been providing insurance needs since 1983. Larry Abbe provides a history on his business…

Abbe’s specialty is dealing with medicare supplements, annuities senior long term health insurance. Larry Abbe says for seniors, you need to start the process before you turn 65…

Abbe Insurance of Buckley Owner Larry Abbe

Abbe Insurance of Buckley is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

WPXN News notes…

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their Friday Supper on Friday, April 10th from 4:30-7:30pm

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

The Paxton Buckley Loda High School Choir will put on their performance of Into the Woods on Friday, April 10th, Saturday, April 11th and Sunday, April 12th at 7pm each night.

St Peters Free Lutheran Church in Melvin is hosting a Biscuits and Gravy and Hasbrown breakfast Saturday April 11th from 8am until 11am. It is a fundraiser for the church

A Spring craft and vendor event will be held on Saturday, April 11th from 9-3 at the Kruse Center in Gibson City.

The Melvin Community Hall welcomes Mike Porter Saturday at 7pm. Doors open at 5:30. $10 for adults, kids 12 and under are free. Food will be available. 

St. Malachy Catholic School in Rantoul will hold their spring fling and auction on Saturday, April 11th. Doors open at 5pm, dinner will be served at 6 with live auction beginning at 7:15.

(Springfield-jm) – As the filing deadline is under a week away, the Illinois Department of Revenue is urging state taxpayers to file their 2025 tax returns as soon as possible. People are urged to file their state individual income tax returns ahead of the April 15th deadline and not wait until the last minute, especially if filing by mail, to avoid any potential issues.

(Chicago–jc)  Oral arguments are scheduled to begin this afternoon in former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s appeal of his conviction on ten counts of public corruption. The longtime speaker and Democratic Party of Illinois chairman began serving a 7.5-year prison sentence in West Virginia last October. The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals is hearing the case.

(Springfield–jc)  After once again blaming Washington for Illinois’ fiscal failures, Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch says Democrats in the House want to focus on lowering the cost of living, including “gas, groceries, rent, mortgages,” and are reviewing legislation that “helps bring costs down.” The surprising announcement was welcome news to Illinois House Republicans because they have already introduced real proposals to do exactly that, says 73rd District and Illinois House Minority Leader Ryan Spain of Peoria…

73rd District State Representative and Illinois House Minority Leader, Republican Ryan Spain of Peoria House Bill 57-38 was filed in the state legislature on Wednesday.

(Paxton–jc)  The Ford County Board will meet in a special session on Friday afternoon to look at filling the Ford County Treasurer’s position. The meeting comes to order at 5 on Friday afternoon at the courthouse in Paxton 

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul says his office is requesting an additional 15 million dollars  for fiscal year 2027. Raoul told the Illinois Senate Appropriations Committee on Wednesday that his office generated $21.45 in revenue for every taxpayer dollar the office received for operations over the last seven years. State Sen. Don DeWitte, R-St. Charles, asked Raoul if it was a good investment of taxpayer dollars when most of his cases against the Trump administration were thrown out at the federal level.

(Champaign–jc)  The City of Champaign is celebrating National Community Development Week this week by recognizing the impact of investments that support housing stability, strengthen neighborhoods, and assist residents facing housing insecurity. Since 2020, the City Council has allocated more than 13-point-6 million dollars in housing and homelessness-related activities, reflecting a steady commitment to meeting community needs. The council has also invested over One Million dollars for the construction of new affordable housing, helping expand housing options for a wide variety of  homeowners. 

(Paxton-jm) – A former Paxton pharmacist pleaded guilty to a possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance charge Wednesday.  Jenna Lee Vogel plead guilty to the charge as part of a plea deal that dropped a more serious charge. Vogel faces 30 months of probation to up to 5 years in prison when she is sentenced June 2nd.

(Cissna Park–jc)  Plans for the Shop the Park in Cissna Park continue to develop. Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer says the musical acts have been booked, and they are looking for additional vendors…

Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer. The dates for shop the park in Cissna Park are June 12th, July 11th, August 8th and September 12th.

(Chicago–jc)The Chicago Public Schools Board of Education is  urging  Governor  J.B. Pritzker to reject opting into the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit program.  The program would allow scholarship funds for eligible K-12 students to be used for tutoring, test fees, career coaching, books and more. According to the Illinois Policy Institute, the state could receive as much as $1 billion in scholarships to help public and private school students if Illinois opts into the program. The Chicago Teachers Union opposes the program.

(Normal–jc)  – Union leaders say more than 300 Illinois State University workers are striking for dignity, respect and a wage they can live on. AFSCME Council 31 Local 1110 members began the strike at 6 a.m. Wednesday. The work stoppage involves building service, dining service and grounds workers at ISU.

A second strike also began on Wednesday for several classification of workers at the University of Illinois, in Springfield. The two strikes are unrelated. 

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois State Representative Charlie Meier has announced a package of bills aimed at helping keep individuals with developmental disabilities in state operated facilities. Meier has criticized the Illinois Department of Human Services after an audit found it failed to protect vulnerable residents. House Bill 5129 would allow for families to maintain custody of their children while they receive treatment at a state operated facility. House Bill 5458 would allow for individuals to be readmitted to state operated facilities upon a guardians request. House Bill 1122 would require facilities to notify the Department of Human Services when emergency calls are made on the premises.

(Washington–jc)  The spring corn planting season has begun. U-S-D-A Meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at the latest corn crop planting numbers…

U-S-D-A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Urbana-jm) – A 16 year old has been arrested in connection to a January shooting that injured a 14-year old. The incident happened on January 29th. The youth was struck by gunfire, while sitting in a vehicle on Hill Street.  Two male suspects approached and fired multiple shots into the car striking the 14 year old.  The 16 year old was charged with aggravated battery with a firearm.

(Moline-jm) – Deere and Company has agreed to pay $99 million as part of a settlement that would resolve a class action lawsuit accusing the farm equipment giant of monopolizing repair services. The Moline based manufacture is accused of withholding repair software and conspiring with authorized dealers to force farmers to use their services for repairs when they could otherwise fix tractors or other equipment themselves or use independent alternatives.

(Gibson City–jc)  The Ford County Republican committee is inviting the public to hear from Ford County State’s Attorney Andrew Killian on Saturday in Gibson City. This is one of four quarterly breakfast meetings says Ford County Republican Central Committee Spokesperson Tom Bennett…

Ford County Republican Central Committee Spokesperson Tom Bennett

(Champaign–jc) – Area high school and homeschool juniors and seniors are invited to attend the upcoming SURV-CON Workshop at Parkland College this month.

On Friday, April 24, students will have the opportunity to experience hands-on, real-world training. They’ll use high-tech GPS equipment, surveying instruments, and real construction tools to map land, lay out a building, and build a shed from the ground up. Whether students are curious about construction, engineering, or skilled trades, this workshop is an opportunity for them to explore industry careers.

(Champaign–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Culvers.  One franchise group has locations in Champaign, Urbana, Danville, Mahomet and Tilton.  Jeff Eddy with the group talks about the family associated with the 6 area Culvers restaurants…

Jeff Eddy says it is the people that make up the local group and great customers at their 6 area Culvers restaurants…

Jeff Eddy- Culvers in Champaign Urbana Danville Mahomet and Tilton.

Welcome to Delicious. These Culvers locations are the WPXN Business of the Day, today.

WPXN News notes…

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their Friday Supper on Friday, April 10th from 4:30-7:30pm

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

The Paxton Buckley Loda High School Choir will put on their performance of Into the Woods on Friday, April 10th, Saturday, April 11th and Sunday, April 12th at 7pm each night.

St Peters Free Lutheran Church in Melvin is hosting a Biscuits and Gravy and Hasbrown breakfast Saturday April 11th from 8am until 11am. It is a fundraiser for the church.

A Spring craft and vendor event will be held on Saturday, April 11th from 9-3 at the Kruse Center in Gibson City.

St. Malachy Catholic School in Rantoul will hold their spring fling and auction on Saturday, April 11th. Doors open at 5pm, dinner will be served at 6 with live auction beginning at 7:15.

The Melvin Community Hall welcomes Mike Porter Saturday at 7pm. Doors open at 5:30. $10 for adults, kids 12 and under are free. Food will be available. 

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