(Springfield-jm) -- Despite some breakthrough cases, the state’s top public health doctor says the vaccine is still your best bet against COVID-19. Illinois Public Health Director Dr Ngozi Eizke says getting your shot can make a world of difference when it comes to the severity of infection, even against the Delta variant…
Illinois Public Health Director Dr Ngozi Ezike. There have been 714 breakthrough hospitalizations and 180 deaths. That’s out of more than six million vaccinated Illinoisans.
(Undated-jm) -- The Illinois Department of Public Health reported 3,040 new cases of COVID-19 and 13 additional deaths. The state’s 7 day positivity rate is up to 5.2 percent. Locally, Champaign County reported 69 new cases. Vermilion County 29 new cases. Ford County 32 new cases. Iroquois County did not have a report Friday.
(Springfield-jm) -- The Illinois State Fair is taking a number of COVID-19 precautions this year, based on CDC guidelines. Mitigations include requiring masks in all indoor public buildings like the Coliseum, Illinois Building and the Livestock Center. Everyone going to a grandstand concert will also have to wear a mask, and those on the track will have to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test. It’s about keeping people healthy, says Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello…
Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello. Officials also recommend fairgoers wear a mask in large groups, like at the Twilight Parade. The fair runs August 12th through the 22nd in Springfield.
(Ford County-jm) -- The two suspects wanted for a robbery in Wisconsin remain in the Ford County Jail awaiting extradition. Brandon Taylor and Manne Willis, both of Texas, are charged with robbery of a financial institution and robbery for allegedly robbing a bank in Racine, Wisconsin Wednesday. The two led State Police on a chase, where they fled on foot in Roberts. Both were apprehended later Thursday morning.
(Fisher-jm) -- The 4th Annual Fisher Lucky Foot Festival is coming up in August. Spokesperson Joe Wier talks about the festival…
Fisher Lucky Foot Festival Spokesperson Joe Wier.
(Urbana-jm) -- Carle Health is requiring all of its team members to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Effective immediately, those who are not vaccinated are being asked to complete a COVID-19 vaccine form and comply with additional safety requirements on an ongoing basis. Over 70% of the health system’s more than 11,000 team members have already received the COVID-19 vaccine.
(Washington-jm) -- The latest complete trade data available is for June. The numbers show June was a remarkable month for exports of agricultural products. Gary Crawford reports…
(Springfield-jm) -- House lawmakers are hearing from Illinois colleges and universities about plans for the fall amidst COVID-19 concerns. Most schools are requiring all students and staff to be vaccinated. Those that can’t be will have to be tested regularly. The vaccine is not mandated on Southern Illinois University's two campuses, but is strongly encouraged, says SIU System President Dan Mahoney…
SIU System President Dan Mahoney. Some schools, like Western Illinois University, are setting aside dorm space for students to quarantine if needed and limiting rooms to either singles or doubles. Many colleges are also offering free vaccine clinics and are maintaining sanitization protocols.
(Urbana-jm) -- A Champaign County Sheriff’s Office Deputy is being honored as one of the best this year. Investigator Deron Brize was revealed as the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office Deputy of the Year. Deputy Brize started as a patrol deputy in 2015.
(Farmer City-jm) -- An area law enforcement group will be honoring officers and giving the public a chance to show their support. Back the Blue Champaign County will be hosting a Back the Badge Fest in Farmer City this weekend. Organizer Matt Stuckey talks about the music lineup for the festival…
Back the Badge Fest Organizer Matt Stuckey. Tickets are $20 for general admission or $30 for VIP. Officers can get in for free if the show their badge.
(Washington-jm) -- U.S. agricultural products are doing very well in world markets and doing better than some had expected. Gary Crawford reports…
