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WPXN Blog Archives for 2018-10

State Board of Elections Reminds the Public That Any Claims of On-Line Voting in Illinois are Fake

PEORIA, Ill. (AP) — Prosecutors say a central Illinois man waited until his parents were asleep to use pepper spray on them and then stab them to death. Jose G. Ramirez is charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the deaths of his parents, Bradley University professor Susan Brill de Ramirez and her husband, Antonio Ramirez Barron. A judge set bond for Ramirez at $3 million and a preliminary hearing date of Nov. 29. Police believe that have found the victims' bodies in a river.

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- The State Board of Elections is reminding the public that any claims of On-Line voting in Illinois are fake. Voters should be aware that any website, app, social media account or text offering to let you cast a ballot on-line, is bogus. State Board of Election Spokesperson Matt Dietrich says on-line voting is NOT allowed anywhere in the United States…

 

 

State Board of Elections Spokesperson Matt Dietrich

If you receive this information you are asked to contacting authorities.

 

 

(Chicago--jc)  -- Former President Barack Obama leads the list of minority trailblazers in the latest Illinois Top 200 project poll.  The former president lead this list, followed by two native Americans says Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Spokesperson Chris Wills…

 

 

 Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Spokesperson Chris Wills…

 

 

(Champaign--jc)  Champaign County authorities are investigating two shootings that happened on Tuesday in the city. The first shooting happened just after one pm near Third Street and the second just after 9pm near Vine Street. The victim in that shooting has died. The consensus of police is that the shootings were not just random. Anyone with information on the two shootings are asked to call Champaign County Crimestoppers or the local police department.

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Candidates for Illinois attorney general in the November  6th election pledge to tackle a huge backlog of appeals on denied public-records requests. The attorney general's public access counselor was created in 2010 to referee bureaucrats' rejections under the Freedom of Information Act. But the workload is heavy. The PAC currently had over 2,300 FOIA cases pending as of October 12th without more than 1,300 at least three years old.

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — A suburban Chicago plant that sterilizes medical instruments faces a lawsuit alleging air pollution violations. Democratic Attorney General Lisa Madigan and Republican DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin filed suit Tuesday against Sterigenics U.S. It accuses the company of "causing, threatening or allowing air pollution" and of a public health risk. Sterigenics issued a statement saying the lawsuit recognizes that the company "continues to operate well within" permitted limits.

 

 

(Paxton--jc)  -- Art has come to downtown Paxton. Members of an art class at Paxton Buckley Loda High School have put their work on display in three downtown Paxton businesses. The art is on display at the Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce office, Austin Curtis-Edward Jones office  and Kief Realty in downtown Paxton.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  --The new “Halloween” movie is in theaters now, rebooting the horror franchise from the first film that debuted 40 years ago, and Illinois plays a fictitious role.The modern myth of masked killer Michael Myers spurred by John Carpenter's 1978 horror movie “Halloween” was set in the Illinois town of Haddonfield. There is no Haddonfield, Illinois. The town in the film was based on screenwriter Deborah Hill’s hometown in New Jersey.Tommy Lee Wallace, a production designer of the first "Halloween" film, told The Biography Channel filming back then that the 1978 movie was filmed in California.

 

(Undated--jc)  -- Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial Minute…

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  The booming housing market has put many Illinois homes enticingly close to being back above the value of their mortgages, but property values may have peaked.After months of home values rising with the booming economy, Attom Data Solutions said the third quarter of 2018 saw 49 percent of markets across the nation slow down, indicating home prices may be close to topping out. Vice President Daren Blomquist said rising mortgage rates are a factor in the slow down.The Attom  report shows  homeowners who sold in the third quarter received an average of $61,232 more than their original purchase price, the highest average home seller price gain since summer 2007.

 

 

(Carbondale--jc)  --Southern Illinois University is starting a new research initiative into cannabis.The SIU initiative announced last week is aimed at creating a program to support agriculture and industry with research and training. S I U officials say they are getting requests from stakeholders and students.Marijuana Policy Project Senior Legislative Counsel Chris Lindsey said the move is encouraging, especially as the cannabis industry continues to grow.The program includes a five-acre research plot focusing on hemp and medicinal cannabis. The plot is being cleared and will be planted with hemp this spring, university officials said in a statement.

 

CHICAGO — Governor Bruce Rauner and First Lady Diana Rauner got their flu shots on Tuesday and highlighted the importance of Illinoisans protecting themselves this flu season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  recommend shots for everyone over the age of six months. The governor says to get your flu shot…

 

 

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner

Influenza activity often increases in October and tends to peak between December and February.

 

(Rantoul--jc)  Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce officials say those wanting to attend the annual chamber banquet need to do so by tomorrow. The event is set for November 9 at 6pm at the Linden Banquet Center in the village. It is the 95th anniversary for the local chamber.

 

 

(Washington--jc)  -- Size does matter for some pumpkin farmers. Gary Crawford reports…

 

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- Two recent studies of public sector pay and retirement benefits show tens of thousands of retired Illinois public employees making six figures or more in all levels of government, dwarfing figures from states with more people.Two organizations that reviewed and released the information hope it encourages taxpayers to seek change.Illinois has more than $130 billion in unfunded pension debt for its five state-run pension systems. Adding in other post employment benefits, that number climbs to more than $200 billion. Municipal governments in Illinois also are struggling with unfunded pension liability .The group's founder, Jim Tobin, said that’s just the tip of the iceberg and the pensions are just out of line.

 

 

(Paxton--jc)  -- Ford County Clerk Amy Frederick says her office will be open for early voting on Saturday from 8-30am until noon. The last day to early vote is Monday with election day on Tuesday. The fall mid-term election is Tuesday November 6th.

 

 

(Washington--jc)  -- It’s Halloween, time for tricks or treats. USDA Historical Expert Anne Effland explains the origin of the word...Halloween…

 

 

USDA Historical Expert Anne Effland.

The Paxton Church of the Nazarene will host a Trunk-or-Treat event from 4:30 to 6 p.m. today in the church’s parking lot. The church is located at 302 W. State Street.

 

The Gibson City Pentecostal Church  on Melvin Street is having food and fellowship today from  5:30 to 8:30 p.m.. The event will feature free cocoa and coffee, cookies and hotdogs for anyone who comes. Add, goody bags will be provided to children.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  The city of Paxton and Paxton Park District Halloween event is set for this afternoon in the downtown area of the city.  The parade with kids in costume steps off at 4 this afternoon. Kids and parents will start from the Library north to the Paxton Firehouse. Kids will get trick or treat bags courtesy of WPXN. Also at the firehouse, representatives of the Ford County Sheriff’s Office, Paxton Police Department and Ford County Crimestoppers will also be handing out goodies, along with Halloween safety material.   

 

 

Son of Missing Bradley University Professor and her Husband is Among Two Men Arrested in the Connection with their Deaths

PEORIA, Ill. (AP) — Authorities in central Illinois say the son of a missing Bradley University professor and her husband is among two men arrested in the connection with their deaths. Peoria County Sheriff Brian Asbell says 21-year-old Jose Ramirez is charged with first-degree murder in the deaths Susan Brill de Ramirez and Antonio Ramirez Barron. Twenty-year-old Matthew Roberts has been charged with obstruction of justice and concealment of a homicidal death.

 

 

CARBONDALE, Ill. (AP) — Southern Illinois University is creating new programs for students who want to know more about marijuana. The university says that it's creating programs at the Carbondale campus to study medical marijuana and industrial hemp. Officials hope the programs will give students and farmers a chance to earn a new certificate in the subject. University leaders say they hope to begin planting in the spring.

 

 

(Paxton--jc)  -- The Ford County Republican party along with the state board of elections continue to investigate a number of flyers that were distributed in a portion of Ford County last week. The flyers opposed the candidacy of two candidates for the Ford County board.The candidates in question are Ann and Cindy Ihrke. The pair are running for positions on the Ford County Board on the

November 6th election. The flyers  contained information about future economics of Ford County The  The Ihrkes are opposed by two Democratic candidates — Marcia Peznowski of Roberts and Lori Reinert of Piper City.

 

 

(Washington--ba) It’s Halloween time, but farmers can thank bats. Rod Bain reports…

 

 

(Murphysboro--jc)  -- President Donald Trump filled an airplane hangar Saturday in Southern Illinois.The president is touring the country to support other Republicans looking to maintain majorities in the U.S. House and Senate in the face of Democrats looking to flip the chambers next month.At his stop in Murphysboro, Trump told the thousands of supporters in attendance that Republican Rep. Mike Bost, who is facing Democrat Brendan Kelly for the 12th Congressional district seat, is a pivotal member of Congress.Trump won Bost’s district in 2016 and recent polling showed Bost with a lead over Kelly.

 

 

(Fisher--jc)  A meeting that was set to look at a proposed solar farm project in one Champaign county last for just a short time as the solar company withdrew its  request for a permit. Fisher Village leaders say officials with the Novel Energy Solutions withdrew their request to move forward with the idea to build a solar farm on the “Stalter property” in the village. The meeting was short and no additional meeting by the full Fisher board was held. There was no word given about any new efforts for a solar project in Fisher at last night’s meeting.

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The Illinois Department of Transportation has begun a statewide initiative among multiple government agencies to develop a testing program for connected and autonomous vehicles. Gov. Bruce Rauner signed an executive order last week directing IDOT to develop a program called "Autonomous Illinois" to keep it ahead in research on the emerging safety technologies. Communities will be recruited to test the technologies with local industry, universities or other organizations.

 

 

(Buckley--jc)  -- A new restaurant is now open in Buckley. Peggy Sues opened on Monday in the village. Owners of the business are Peggy Shockley and Sue Stachura. The business will be open from 7am until 2pm. A wide variety of baked goods will be offered and plans to add meals is in the works.

 

 

UNDATED (AP) — The real guardians of U.S. elections are a trio of privately held companies with a history of technical problems and security vulnerabilities in the election technology they sell. Experts say the companies have long skimped on security in favor of convenience, making it difficult to detect intrusions or tampering. The businesses face scant federal oversight and operate under a shroud of technical and financial secrecy.


 

(Undated--jc)  -- Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial minute…

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- The fall harvest is chugging along as we hear  in the latest crop report. Producers got some time in the fields this past week, with about 5 days suitable for fieldwork says crop statistician Mark Schleusener…

 

 

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener.

89 percent of corn and 86 percent of soybeans have now been harvested. 74 percent of winter wheat has been planted, with 50 percent emerged.

 

(Ford County--jc)  When Ford County voters go to the polls in one week, they will be asked to approve a quarter of one cent sales tax for public safety purposes. This type of tax has been used by surrounding counties for upgrades to county courthouses, police salaries and other safety purposes.The fall mid-term elections are one week from today.

 

(Washington--ba) The Agriculture Secretary expressed his optimism that rules on year-round E-15 ethanol in fuel blends will be ready by the start of the 2019 driving season. Rod Bain reports.

 

 

 

CHICAGO (AP) — Chicago's Field Museum plans to revamp its Native American exhibits with the help of American Indians over the next three years. Museum president Richard Lariviere tells the Chicago Tribune that its Native North American Hall faces a much needed renovation of displays dating mostly back to the 1950s. Leaders of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians from Michigan and Indiana say current exhibits don't tell the stories of Native Americans.

 

 

(Urbana--jc)  -- A University of Illinois lineman was in court on Monday to face three counts of domestic battery. Lere Oladipo plead not guilty to all charges.His next court appearance is on December 21st in Champaign County court.

 

(Watseka--jc)  The proposed 20-19 budget for Iroquois County is available for review at the Iroquois County Clerk’s office in Watseka. Those with any feedback for questions may contact the county clerk’s office or their elected official on the county board. Iroquois County leaders are set to meet on November 13th at 5pm to take action on  next year’s budget. The fiscal year begins on December First.

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  Buying a new or used car? The Illinois Secretary of States Office says to to beware of cars from states that have seen hurricanes and other weather related events.  Secretary of State Spokesperson Henry Haupt says state officials are carefully scrutinizing title applications for vehicles from in hurricane ravaged areas…

 

 

Illinois Secretary of States spokesperson Henry Haupt.

 

(Hoopeston--jc)  -- Hoopeston Jaycees are helping again this holiday season. The group will be gathering new toys for area kids this Christmas. The group has set up registration days in early November at the Hoopeston United Methodist Church. The first sign up day is Monday November 5th from 9 until 11am. More information is found in Hoopeston’s Just the Facts.

 

 

(Washington--ba) Why are leftover prescription drugs such a problem?

USDA’s Stephanie Ho reports.

 

 

USDA’s Stephanie Ho

 

Polls Show Prizker Leading Rauner, Currently by Double Digits.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner swept into office four years ago as a self-made millionaire and an outsider promising fiscal austerity, lower taxes and clean government. Now he's struggling in his re-election bid against Democratic challenger J.B. Pritzker. This year’s election has seen millions of dollars spent on negative ads. A two year budget standoff  and billions of dollars in debt, the first term governor held a firm line on compromise.Working with those with other political views is the stance of Rauner. Democratic Challenger J B Pritzker is running on a position of change and Democrat solidarity. Polls show Prizker leading Rauner, currently by double digits.

 

 

CHICAGO (AP) — Two workers have been fired from Democratic Illinois governor candidate J.B. Pritzker's campaign over a social media post showing one wearing a charcoal face mask that resembles blackface. The Chicago Sun-Times reports the image posted Sunday to Instagram shows a white man wearing a Pritzker T-shirt with a dark substance on his face. A Pritzker spokeswoman says both were fired. She said earlier Friday neither intended offense but were initially suspended without pay for poor judgment.

 

 

EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. (AP) — Former Vice President Joe Biden will campaign for Democrat Brendan Kelly as he tries to retake a southern Illinois district won by Republican Rep. Mike Bost in 2014. Officials with the Kelly campaign say Biden is scheduled to campaign Wednesday in East St. Louis with the prosecutor and Navy veteran. The working-class corner of the state supported Donald Trump by 15 percentage points after twice backing Barack Obama for president.



 

CHICAGO (AP) — Authorities have accused a University of Illinois at Chicago massage therapist of sexually abusing two students while working on campus. The Chicago Sun Times reports 52-year-old Carl Schultz was charged Friday with criminal sexual abuse and aggravated battery involving the students on separate occasions. A judge set bond at $5,000 and ordered him to return to court for a hearing on Nov. 15.

 

OAKWOOD, Ill. (AP) — Illinois residents are pushing for a public hearing where they can voice concerns about an energy company's plan to build a wall to stabilize part of the Vermillion River near coal ash pits. Vermilion County Board member Kevin Green is leading the effort to get local governments and other groups in the county to pass resolutions urging the Army Corps of Engineers to hold a public hearing on Vistra Energy's plan  The Middle Fork of the Vermillion River has three pits of toxic coal ash from the shuttered Vermilion Power Station. Instead of digging out the toxic muck, Vistra Energy, the ash pits' owner wants to build a wall of rocks. The Army Corps is in the process of gathering information about the plan as it reviews the energy company's permit application.River advocates fear the project could disrupt recreational activities along the river for up to a year and ruin the river's aesthetic and scenic value.

 

Chicago--jc)  -- Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner urged all area citizens to treat others with respect, even when you don’t agree politically. The recent events of suspected bombs sent to harm some Democratic leaders, prompted the governor to speak about a better society. Rauner says it’s a shame that some individuals look to harm others because of politics…

 

 

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner


 

(Paxton--jc)  --Medicare’s open enrollment ends December 7, so now is the time to compare prescription drug plans. It is important for Medicare beneficiaries to review their prescription drug coverage each year. A beneficiary can stay with their current plan or look for a new one with better coverage, higher quality, and lower cost. Medicare beneficiaries can go online at www.medicare.gov to complete their own comparison but many people find it confusing. Ford County Public Health Department is here to help with this process. Lana Sample and Don McCall, SHIP Counselors, from the Ford County Public Health Department will be available to assist Medicare beneficiaries in comparing plans for 2018 at various locations throughout Ford County.They include Thursday November 8th in Gibson City and Thursday November 15th in Piper City

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- Illinois lawmakers heard from experts and people affected by the chemicals being released by a suburban Chicago facility at a Friday hearing.Willowbrook-based Sterigenics has been using a cleaning agent called ethylene oxide, known as ETO, to clean medical supplies. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has said exposure to the chemical over time can cause cancer.Naperville real estate agent Jeanne Hochhalter told a joint House Committee on Friday that she and many of her families have suffered from cancerous effects of the chemical Sterigenics has been releasing.

 

 

(Gibson City--jc)  -- The American Lutheran Church in Gibson City has its Little Achievers Holiday Shopping Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday The bazaar features 20 booths showcasing handmade items, personalized crafts, jewelry,  clothing and more. Door prizes and raffles also hi-light the event. A barbecue lunch with chips, drink and dessert will be sold for 6 dollars.


 

 

(Undated--jc)  -- Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial minute…

 

 

 

(Undated--jc)  -- Insurance shoppers likely will have several choices for individual health coverage this fall. The bad news? There's no guarantee they will cover certain doctors or prescriptions.Health insurers have stopped fleeing the Affordable Care Act's marketplaces and they've toned down premium hikes that gouged consumers in recent years. Some are even dropping prices for 2019. But the market will still be far from ideal for many customers when open enrollment starts Thursday.Much of the insurance left on the marketplaces limits patients to narrow networks of hospitals or doctors and provides no coverage outside those networks.

Plus these plans can still be unaffordable for people who don't receive help from the ACA's income-based tax credits, and they often require patients to pay several thousand dollars toward their care before most coverage starts.

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Raising the minimum wage in Illinois would help some residents out of poverty and increase economic activity, according to a new study by a local nonprofit.The Illinois Economic Policy Institute says what would happen if the state raised minimum wage from $8.25 an hour to $10, $13 or $15 an hour, The State Journal-Register reported. Officials with the Illinois Economic Policy Institute say that by raising the minimum wage, Illinois can boost worker incomes, reduce income inequality, increase consumer spending, grow the economy, generate tax revenues, and decrease taxpayer costs for government assistance programs. The study found that increases would affect between 353,000 and 1.4 million workers, and grow the economy by between $5 billion and $19 billion a year.

 

(Chicago--jc) --According to a survey from A-A-R-P, three-in-four voters believe that the new budget deal for Illinois will not address the state’s fiscal-crisis. A-A-R-P’s Ryan Gruenenfelder urges voters to go to the polls on November 6th…

 

 

A-A-R-P’s Ryan Gruenenfelder

 

(Thomasboro--jc)  -- Four area residents were injured in a single vehicle accident south of Thomasboro early Saturday. Police say a 19 year old driver from Villa Grove lost control of her vehicle on a local road near Thomasboro where the road dead-ends near Interstate 57. The driver and three passengers were all injured in the accident and taken to a local hospital. The accident remains under investigation by Champaign County authorities.

 

 

The measure does a host of things, such as providing additional access to treatment and recovery services, incentives for innovative care and establishes opioid recovery centers. It also works to encourage non-addictive alternatives to opioids, improves data collection to identify at-risk patients, and gives law enforcement more tools to go after illicit opioids at international mail facilities. In Illinois, drug overdose deaths have increased in recent years. For the one-year period that ended in January, Illinois had 2,760 reported deaths, that an increase of 236, or 10 percent, over the previous year, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Nationwide, overdose deaths increased 6.3 percent during the same period.Illinois Lt. Gov. Evelyn Sanguinetti said one issue Illinois is tackling is overprescribing of opioids through a prescription monitoring program.

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  Secretary of State Jesse White’s office is warning consumers to beware of flood and hurricane damaged cars. More than 40 thousand vehicles may have been affected by the recent hurricanes. Secretary of State Spokesperson Henry Haupt says it’s important to do your research and homework on vehicle purchases..

 

 

Illinois Secretary of State Spokesperson Henry Haupt

Information is found on line at cyber-drive-Illiniois-dot-com

 

 

CHAMPAIGN — University of Illinois defensive lineman Lere Oladipo was arrested on Sunday morning and booked on a preliminary charge of domestic battery. Oladipo has been indefinitely suspended from the football team, according to a news release.Oladipo was booked in Champaign County Jail at 1:42 a.m. Sunday and was released on $1,000 bond that morning, according to the Champaign News Gazette.

 

(Washington--jc)  -- Rural communities need to find ways to work together.  Executive director of the Rural Community Assistance Partnership, Nathan Ohle (‘Oh-lee) says that is one key for a positive future for rural America…

 

 

Executive Director of the Rural Community Assistance Partnership Nathan Ohle

 

 

(Paxton--ab)  The Paxton EMA will be helping out with the safety of Paxton trick or treaters on Halloween. EMA members will be at the intersections of Washington, Union, and Vermillion. The EMA helpers will be there to help kids cross the street to avoid incidents of children getting hit by vehicles.

 


 

Sangamon County State's Attorney John Milhiser to Become Area's Interim Chief Federal Prosecutor

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — A central Illinois county state's attorney is leaving that job and is expected to become the area's interim chief federal prosecutor. Sangamon County State's Attorney John Milhiser is resigning effective Tuesday from the position he's held since 2010. President Donald Trump nominated the Republican in August to become the U.S. attorney for the 46-county central district of Illinois but he's awaiting a Senate confirmation vote

 

(Chicago--jc)  --Illinois could have a new governor before a long-running labor dispute between Gov. Bruce Rauner's administration and the state's largest public union is sorted out.One labor analyst said that may be what the union wants.Rauner has secured contracts with more than a dozen unions since he took office in 2015. But he failed to reach a deal with the American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees Council 31 union.On Tuesday, an appellate court kicked the question of whether the state and the union had reached an impasse back to the state’s labor board. The labor board had previously found there was an impasse, something the union denies. If there is an impasse, Rauner would be able to impose new terms, which include reductions in health insurance benefits.Rauner’s office said it’s considering an appeal to the Illinois Supreme Court.

 

(Fisher--jc)  Fisher village leaders are holding a public hearing on Monday concerning a permit to build a solar garden in town. The area is commonly known as the “Stalter property.” The request comes from a company called Novel Energy Solutions. The hearing takes place at 5 Monday afternoon at the Fisher Community Center. The full village board will meet immediately following the hearing to act on the recommendation.

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Illinois Bicentennial organizers and the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs have named 200 military veterans to honor during the state's 200th birthday. Stuart Layne is executive director of the Bicentennial Commission. He says the "Bicentennial HONOR 200" recognition "is one of the most important commemorations" of the yearlong celebration. All the recipients have been invited to attend the state's official birthday celebration Dec. 3 at the United Center in Chicago.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  --When a newspaper closes or stops providing local content, it's bad news for the local community, according to an updated report. Since 2004, hundreds of local newspapers have closed up shop. The author of a report on this trend said areas without a local paper suffer in a variety of ways.A study by the Center for Innovation and Sustainability in Media at the University of North Carolina says newspapers have shuttered at a high rate since 2004, many of which happened shortly after the recession in 2008. lllinois lost 157 weekly papers since 2004, most located in suburban Chicago as many merged with larger daily publications like the Chicago Tribune. This is among the highest number of closings in the country.

 

(Loda--ab) Bond was set for an Iroquois County man accused of setting a fire in a downtown Loda business. Several fire departments were called to the  Owls Nest restaurant, along route 45 in Loda on Monday night. Police arrested 36 year old Ronald E. Campe the second of Loda. His bond was set at 100 thousand dollars and his next court appearance is set for November 13th. WPXN News will continue to update this story as more official news becomes available.

 

 

 

(Rantoul--jc)  Rantoul police conducted an active shooter drill at Rantoul township High School. Students, Faculty and parents have been told about the event, which is required by Illinois law. Rantoul High school students were evacuated from the school to a safe area during the drill. Rantoul police along with Rantoul Fire Department volunteers and Champaign County emergency personnel are also using this mornings active-shooter drill to train. Rantoul police Department Lieutenant Justin Bouse says it is vitally important for the safety of the students.

 

 

Rantoul police Department Lieutenant Justin Bouse

 

 

(Cissna Park --dg)  -- The Cissna Park American Legion Auxiliary is hosting a vendor Bazaar on Saturday October 27th to support local veterans. The event runs from 9am til 3pm. Food served from 9am -2pm at the Cissna Park American Legion. Many Local and area vendors will be set up. Dave’s Old Settlers Fish, baked goodies and more will be available.


 

Christ Lutheran High School in Buckley will be celebrating Oktoberfest Sunday October 28th at the Buckley American Legion. Dinner will be served from 4pm-6:30pm. Homemade German dishes will be served, including German Sausage Soup, German Meatballs, Schweinbraten, Bratwurst, Sauerkraut, German Potato Salad, breads, desserts and more.

 

 

(Undated--ba) Holiday shoppers, Black Friday is 4 weeks away, and Cyber Monday will follow. What are the tendencies for shoppers this year? WPXN’s Braedon Arnett has the details....

 

 

 

(Undated--jc) Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial minute…

 

 

OGLESBY — Governor  Bruce Rauner Thursday announced the state has acquired 2 thousand 629 acres of property in LaSalle County to protect natural resources and expand recreation opportunities, tourism and economic development near Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks. The governor says more than 3 million people visit Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks each year. They are among the most beautiful destinations in our state, and the expansion increases the amount of open spaces by more than 50 percent. The state acquired the land from Lone Star Industries Inc., which, along with its predecessor companies, has owned much of the property since the early 1900s.
 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- The Unemployment rate fell in most of the state’s metro areas last month. The state jobless rate was down in 12 of the 14 metro areas compared to year-ago levels says Illinois Department of Employment Security Spokesperson Bob Gough…

 

 

Illinois Department of Employment Security Spokesperson Bob Gough

Bloomington and Springfield saw a decrease in jobs last month compared to September of last year.

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- Officials are giving the “all clear,” after a brief lockdown at the state capitol in Springfield on Thursday. The lockdown was called after an unknown substance was found in a second floor bathroom Springfield Fire Chief Allen Reyne (‘Rye-nee) says the substance was deemed non-threatening…

 

 

Springfield Fire Chief Allen Reyne

 

 

(ILLINOIS--ba)  The Red Cross wants you to have a safe time trick or treating.  WPXN’s Braedon Arnett has the story….

 

 

 

(GIBSON CITY--ba)-A euchre party sponsored by Chic Merdedith’s Ford County Relay for Life team is set for 6:30pm tonight at the Moyer District Library, located at 618 S. Sangamon- Avenue in Gibson City. There is a $10 entry fee, and snacks and water will be provided. To sign up,  call 217-784-5267.

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs is joining a number of other state treasurers in calling for Facebook CEO and Board Chairman Mark Zuckerberg to relinquish some of his control at the social media company. Frerichs and the other treasurers co-filed a shareholder proposal asking the company’s board of directors to make the role of board chair an independent position, meaning Zuckerberg would step down as board chairman, but continue in his role as CEO.

Frerichs says that Facebook may have been able to avoid some of the bad news over the past year and a half.

 

(PAXTON--ba)-- P.R.I.D.E. in Paxton . and The Paxton Christmas Committee are inviting various  groups, such as members of the Armed Forces, Businesses, marching units, bands, Christian and civic units, people with floats, antique vehicles, new cars,  and farm machinery to participate in this year’s annual Christmas parade. The parade will be held on Saturday, November 24th, 2018, at

1:30pm in downtown Paxton. For more info contact Teri Hancock at 217-379-4245. WPXN will be broadcasting the parade live on the 24th.

 

 

(Paxton--jc)  One local church is hosting a trunk or treat event at the church on Wednesday. The Paxton Church of the Nazarene  is the venue for a Trunk-or-Treat event from 4:30 to 6 p.m on Halloween. The event takes place in the churches parking lot.


 

Indiana Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Online Fantasy Sports Providers FanDuel and DraftKings to be able use the Names and Statistics of College Football Players Without Consent and Compensation

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Online fantasy sports providers FanDuel and DraftKings can use the names and statistics of college football players without consent and compensation because the material has news value, the Indiana Supreme Court said Wednesday.The court in a unanimous ruling rejected the claims of former players Akeem Daniels and Cameron Stingily of Northern Illinois and Nick Stoner of Indiana, who argued the companies violated their right of publicity by using their names and statistics without consent and compensation. The use of the material without consent by FanDuel and DraftKings, the defendants in the case, does not violate Indiana's right of publicity statute "because the use falls within the meaning of 'material that has newsworthy value,' an exception under the statute," said the opinion written by Justice Steven David.

 

(WASHINGTON-ba)--  African Swine fever remains a concern for hog producers, nationwide. Greg Ibach, Under Secretary of Agriculture for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, talk about efforts to coordinate with the swine industry on African Swine Fever issues....

 

 

U-S-D-A Under Secretary of Agriculture  Greg Ibach

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- You may not have won anything in the latest Mega Millions drawing, but the state of Illinois certainly did. Just one person won the $1.6 billion jackpot. The winning ticket was sold in South Carolina. But the state of Illinois hit a jackpot of its own with the Mega Millions-mania.  Lotto spokesman Jason Schaumburg says players in the state snapped-up $75 million in tickets since July. That means around 20 million dollars to the state of Illinois coffers.

 

(Springfield--jc) This weeks vote for the Illinois bicentennial best of vote looks for Illinois’ minority trailblazers. They include Barack Obama and Jesse Jackson, bu also gay rights activist Henry Gerber and Frank McWorter who was the first black man  who founded a town. Voting is done at Illinois-Top-200-dot-com

 

(Rantoul--jc)  Rantoul police will be conducting an active shooter drill at Rantoul township High School this morning. Students, Faculty and parents have been told about this morning’s event, which is required by Illinois law. Rantoul High school students will be evacuated from the school to a safe area during the drill. Rantoul police along with Rantoul Fire Department volunteers and Champaign County emergency personnel are also using this mornings active-shooter drill to train..

 

(Chicago--jc)  --A suburban school district is trying to claw back millions of dollars in tax incentives from Sears after the former retail powerhouse declared bankruptcy. Despite receiving millions of dollars in subsidies, retail store Sears is in the process of bankruptcy. A state official says there should be more oversight on how taxpayer dollars are doled out to private businesses. When Sears moved its headquarters from downtown Chicago to the suburbs in 1990, the company got a $250 million tax break. After threats to move out of state, the company was given an extension in 2012 as the first deal was about to expire. At the behest of Community Unit School District 300, the agreement contained the stipulation that the company maintain a certain number of employees with a minimum benefit level for the duration of the tax breaks.

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  --A transparency group is using the season to warn about risky practices employed by what the group calls "zombie governments."Truth in Accounting has updated information that shows some states, Illinois included, have such large amounts of hidden debt that they’re essentially insolvent. The term “zombie bank” comes from the savings and loan crisis of the 1980s. It was used to describe a bank that was broke but still operating thanks to accounting gimmicks and government support. Bill Bergman, director of research with Truth in Accounting, said some states and units of local government are effectively insolvent, but able to make themselves appear “alive” using similar accounting tricks.


 

 

URBANA — In order to get insurance to pay for injuries to a University of Illinois student who was burned by a friend during an alcohol-fueled mishap, the state will not file criminal charges against the friend. The News Gazette says University of Illinois police had issued 21 year old Erik Beitel,  A notice to appear in court Today for possible criminal charges stemming from a September 27th drinking-related accident at his fraternity.State’s Attorney Julia Rietz said Wednesday she has decided not to file reckless-conduct charges against Beitel because the UI’s disciplinary system is dealing with him and also due to insurance concerns.

 

 

(Bloomington--jc) A husband and wife team who just sold their 10 McDonald’s restaurants have embarked on building an upscale restaurant on Bloomington’s east side. Bob and Julie Dobski owned McDonald’s in the Bloomington-Normal area, including the McDonald’s in Gibson City.  The Pantagraph says Dobski hopes to open Rob-Dobs Restaurant and Bar in June of 2019. The site of the proposed restaurant is along Hersey road in the city. Steaks, seafood and the latest in kitchen equipment will be featured at the restaurant.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial minute…

 

 

(Undated--jc)  In our look at the two congressional races in our area, candidates in those in central Illinois have stark political differences on some unresolved policies heading into the midterm elections.With less than two weeks until election day, debate season is in full force. This week, candidates for the 13th and 18th congressional districts separately debated their opponents. The districts span almost entirely across central Illinois.The farm bill was brought up during a debate hosted by the State Journal-Register in Springfield. 18th congressional district Democratic challenger Junius Rodriguez said he doesn’t like the policy that's being hashed out to require able-bodied people to work to get food assistance. Incumbent Darin LaHood says the best thing for social programs are jobs, putting people to work.

Betsy Dirksen Londrigan is the Democrat challenging incumbent 13th congressional district Republican Rodney Davis. At a debate at Millikin University this week, Londrigan made clear that she’s in it to ensure individuals with pre-existing conditions are covered and everyone has access to quality health care. Davis countered that Londrigan has mischaracterized his record. Davis says that Londrigan supports policies that take Medicaid dollars from the elderly who need it to expand the program to able-bodied adults At stake is major party control of Congress. Voters go to the polls on Tuesday November 6th.

 

 

(Milford--jc)  Those in the Milford school district, and area continue to mourn the death of a popular teacher, coach and friend. 62 year old Kenneth Leonard of Milford passed away last week at his home. Leonard was a teacher at various school districts in the area including Ridgeview and Milford. He was a popular coach of girls and boys basketball teams. A celebration of life ceremony is set for Saturday at 11 am at the Milford Grade school south gym. Knapp Funeral home in Milford is incharge of the arrangements and memorials may be made to the Milford school boosters club.

 

 

(Washington--jc)  New guidelines can alert patients with elevated blood pressure levels, and, in turn, help them take preventative measures to lower risk of hypertension. Rod Bain talks with University of Illinois Extensions, Marilyn Csernus…

 

 

 

(Gibson City, IL--jc)  -- With one week since its grand opening, one local fitness center is seeing a bright future. Gibson Area Hospital officials held a grand opening last Thursday for it’s Elite Sport & Fitness along Route 9 in Gibson City.  The property had been vacant for several years since the closing of the ALCO store. Rob Schmitt, CEO of Gibson Area Hospital & Health Services, says the large turnout at the open house allowed us to show the community all the bells and whistles that Elite has to offer. Gibson Area Hospital has a similar location in Paxton on route 45 north in the city.

 

 

Christ Lutheran High School in Buckley will be celebrating Oktoberfest Sunday October 28th at the Buckley American Legion. Dinner will be served from 4pm-6:30pm. Homemade German dishes will be served, including German Sausage Soup, German Meatballs, Schweinbraten, Bratwurst, Sauerkraut, German Potato Salad, breads, desserts and more.

 

 

(Kankakee County--jc)  -- A portion of Illinois Route 115  in southern Kankakee County was shut down for several hours on Wednesday afternoon. The reason was a semi accident. No word on any injuries was given and the road was re-opened to traffic later in the day.

 

 

(Rantoul--jc)  Rantoul Chamber officials have changed the date of the annual lighted Christmas parade and Santa’s workshop back to Friday November 30th. The Parade route will stay the same but the lineup and marshalling and staging area will be  the four streets in a square around Mitchell Court. The parade steps off around 6pm and WPXN will be broadcasting live during the parade on the 30th of November.

 

 

(IL-ba)  Halloween is this coming Wednesday. Area towns have trick or treat hours. WPXN’s Braedon Arnett has the details…

 

 

Chicago – Attorney General Lisa Madigan with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) today announced an agreement with Diamond Residential Mortgage Corporation under which the company will pay $1.2 million to eligible consumers who were defrauded by one of the company’s branch managers. Madigan entered the settlement, an assurance of voluntary compliance, with Diamond Residential Mortgage Corporation (Diamond), a residential mortgage company based in Lake Forest, Ill. The agreement resolves an investigation by Madigan’s office and IDFPR into alleged mortgage fraud at Diamond’s Springfield branch.

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — A container for gunpowder that Abraham Lincoln carried as a soldier during the Black Hawk War of 1832 is now on display at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield. In a news release, the library says Lincoln carried the powder horn during his months in the Illinois militia.The artifact was loaned to the library by Carl Harmon and his family from Spencer County, Indiana. After Lincoln used the powder horn, it belonged to a man named Jack Armstrong. The two were friends who once engaged in a wrestling match before Lincoln became president.

 

 

Billionaire Democrat J.B. Pritzker has Donated $15 Million More to his Campaign for Illinois Governor, Pushing his Self-financing Total to $161.5 million

(Paxton--jc)  The dedication of the overpass just south of Paxton, along Interstate 57 drew a huge crowd Monday morning at the Paxton Fire station. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold led the event and talked about the tragic events of April 7 1979 that took the lives of three men and wounded a fourth man. State Senator Jason Barickman and Illinois House member Tom Bennett were also in attendance, along with dozens of Illinois State Police troopers, Paxton City council members, family, friends and public. State Police Director Leo Schmitz says the process to get this project completed took the efforts of a lot of work by a lot of people...

 

 

State Police Director Leo Schmitz

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the hope of the city is the bridge serves as a reminder to honor those that serve our communities…

 

 

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold.

 

(Melvin--ab)  A hog roast is set to benefit Christian missions. The Melvin Hog roast is coming up on October 28th from 11 AM to 2 PM supporting Melvin United Methodist Church Youth Group’s Mission fund. Blake Nugent a High schooler from Heritage Prep says he sees a transition in attitude from fundraising to getting on location at the mission site.

 

 

Heritage Prep student Blake Nugent

 

 

(Washington-ba)   Three federal agencies, including the Agriculture Department, pledged to continue work to reduce food waste by fifty per cent in our country by the year 2030. Rod Bain reports....

 


 

CHICAGO (AP) — Billionaire Democrat J.B. Pritzker has donated $15 million more to his campaign for Illinois governor, pushing his self-financing total to $161.5 million. Both Pritzker and multimillionaire Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner have been largely funding their own campaigns. The Chicago Tribune reports that Pritzker's campaign reported the new donation to state election officials Saturday. The Hyatt Hotel heir is outpacing Rauner, who has given about $68 million toward his re-election campaign.


 

 

(Bloomington--ba)  Nominees are sought for the “mother” road.. WPXN’s

Braedon Arnett has the story.

 

 

 

(Undated--jc)  Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial minute…

 

 

(Chicago--jc)  ) --A group of 10 campaign workers who sued Democratic candidate for Illinois governor J.B. Pritzker over racial discrimination accusations in the political operation spoke out Monday in response to claims that they’re only after the billionaire's money.In the lawsuit, current and former campaign workers said that Pritzker’s campaign deliberately put minorities in dangerous offices and denied them promotions. The workers said they weren't taken seriously by campaign leaders until they filed the lawsuit. Attorney Jeanette Samuels, one of the attorneys representing the workers said at a news conference, that when career campaign workers from Selma Alabama come to Chicago and say they have experienced racism, you believe them. Another attorney representing the group is  Shay T. Allen. Allen says his clients wouldn’t delve into the specifics of the discrimination claims in the lawsuit, but he said they felt compelled to speak out after criticism. Allen said there has been an effort to “smear these people's’ reputations.”

 

 

(Washington--ba)  --If the latest winter weather forecast pans out, it could have important implications for agriculture. USDA Gary Crawford explains.

 

 

 

(Rantoul--jc)  -- When Rantoul village leaders meet in a special session tonight, they will be asked to provide a new roof. Those with the Rantoul Public Library are looking for a loan of 170 thousand dollars for the project. If approved the loan would be paid back over the next 10 years. The interest rate would be set at three percent. The Rantoul Village board special meeting comes to order at 6 tonight in the municipal building on Tanner Street.



 

(Loda--jc)  A major fire sent various area fire departments to the village of Loda late Monday night. Officials say the Owls nest building caught fire Monday night around 10. Loda Fire department volunteers with mutual aid from Paxton and Buckley. There were people in the building when the fire started. No one was injured. Details of the fire remain sketchy and no word on the cause of the blaze was made available. WPXN news will update this story as more official news becomes available.

 

 

(Rantoul--jc)  One local Chamber is getting into the Halloween spirit. Officials with the Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce had help with the window display in the downtown area of Rantoul. Rantoul Area Executive Director Belynda Allen continues to urge area  businesses to work together to help the village and area grow. The window display features ghosts and pumpkins  Chamber leaders continue to look for nominations for the annual banquet. That event is set for November 9th

 

(Springfield--jc)  A recent Illinois law is behind solar farm proposals across the state. The Future Energy Jobs Act, which took effect last year, requires Illinois utilities to get 25 percent of their retail power from renewable sources like solar and wind by 2025. Sean Gallagher, vice president of state affairs at the Solar Energy Industries Association, said the new interest is no coincidence. One area that has seen a spike in solar farm applications is Boone County in far northern Illinois. Karl Johnson, Boone County board chairman, says they’ve received more than a dozen proposals and already have approved a handful of them. Closer to home a solar project has been proposed for the Fisher area in Champaign County. Another solar project is underway in Kankakee County.

 

(Washington--ba)  -- What is the reaction coming from the cattle on feed report.  U-S-D- A Livestock Analyst Shayle Shagam has the numbers...

 

 

U-S-D-A Livestock Analyst Shayle Shagam


 

(Gifford--jc)  One Champaign County junior high continues to look at a girls softball coop with two area schools. Gifford School leaders have met with those in the Armstrong and Potomac schools. The consensus of the meetings is there is a positive interest for girls softball. If approved, the sport would be part of activities offered at Gifford Grade school. More meetings at being planned on the subject

 

 

ATLANTA, Ill. (AP) — Organic farmers in Illinois are adapting their business practices due to a shift in the local market prompted in part by large grocers offering organic produce and meal-kit startups gaining popularity. Many small organic fruit and vegetable producers have traditionally relied on sales through community-supported agriculture programs, in which community members pay for a weekly box of vegetables .Hans and Katie Bishop run PrairiEarth Farm in Atlanta, Illinois southwest of Bloomington.. The Bishops said they're making many changes to how they run their business, such as expanding the company's wholesale business, partnering with other farms and allowing CSA members to select what goes into their boxes. Trimbles Farm Produce, home of Farmer Scotts Premium popcorn is another C-S-A option in Heyworth.

 

The Fall Season is Expected to Bring the Highest Number of Vehicular Deer Collisions in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The quest to be the next Illinois attorney general is focusing on experience, ideology and gumption. Democrat Kwame Raoul touts his legal and policymaking experience and says Republican Erika Harold is too rigid in her conservative views to effectively manage the post of chief law enforcement officer. Harold says she has the independence and initiative to take on public corruption and insists that her political viewpoint won't impede her defense of current law. They face off is Nov. 6.

 

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. (AP) — After more than a decade representing a reliably Republican suburban Chicago district, Rep. Peter Roskam is suddenly among the most endangered House Republicans seeking re-election. His long right-leaning record in a safe GOP district may be his toughest opponent. Roskam, who faces Democratic business owner and scientist Sean Casten, is trying to navigate between his past positions and appealing to an electorate that supported Hillary Clinton over President Donald Trump by 7 percentage points.

 

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) — Three women who accused a University of Illinois law professor of sexual misconduct say the university hasn't done enough to protect students or discourage similar misbehavior. The News-Gazette reports that the women say they're upset Jay Kesan remains a tenured faculty member with access to students. The university's Office of Diversity, Equity and Access investigated Kesan after receiving multiple complaints about his behavior.

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — A suburban Chicago man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for using identities stolen from the dark web to defraud businesses of more than $600,000. The U.S. Attorney's Office in Springfield says 25-year-old Keith JD Offord of Carpentersville also was ordered Friday to pay $600,549 in restitution. Offord was convicted in February of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. Prosecutors said he used false ID documents to obtain credit accounts and buy gift cards and merchandise

 

(Bloomington--jc) --The fall season is expected to bring the highest number of vehicular deer collision in Illinois.State Farm Insurance is out with its 16th annual deer collision report and ranks Illinois right in the middle of states for the number of deer accidents. The odds of hitting a deer in Illinois increased this year, but only slightly. Bill Ecker, a State Farm Insurance Agent in Marion, said that chances of hitting a deer double in the fall.

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- Secretary of State Jesse White is warning the public about  marijuana-related investment schemes. Investment in marijuana business ventures is becoming more popular, but some opportunities are really just a scam says Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White…

 

 

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White

 

 

SPRINGFIELD – The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum has added three fascinating Lincoln documents to its collection, thanks to the generosity of a donor who wishes to remain anonymous.The documents illustrate Lincoln’s duties both as an attorney and a president. One is from an 1851 libel case. Another, a note on White House stationery, apologizes for not being able to review troops. The third proclaims a new treaty between the United States and Belgium.The documents were donated by a central Illinois collector who wanted to see them safely preserved and available to future scholars and Lincoln fans.

 

 

(Downs--jc) Want to see the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile. The crew is making a stop on Sunday at the McLean County town of Downs on Sunday October 28th. The Wienermobile will be at the Haunted attraction in Downs from 1pm to 2pm on the 28th.

 

 

(Rantoul--jc)  -- The date and time for the village of Rantoul Christmas parade has been set. The event will take place Saturday December First  at 6pm. Parade lineup starts at Rantoul Township High School at 5-15 on the first. The parade heads Chanute Street and then up Sangamon Avenue to the downtown area. Floats, and other entries will be lighted. Downtown businesses will be open for shopping during the annual parade. Santa will be visiting with area children and Mrs Claus will be reading. WPXN will be broadcasting live during the Rantoul parade on Saturday December First.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  -- Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial minute…

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- Illinois is one of 29 states dealing with a stubborn salmonella outbreak.The Illinois Department of Public Health is reporting five cases of multi-drug resistant salmonella according to Public Health Department spokesperson Emma Ciavarella. She says that in the 29 states dealing with the outbreak, almost all of the cases can be traced back to raw chicken. Ciavarella said the CDC is looking into the source of the outbreak, but investigators aren't sure if there is just one source.Most people who have gotten sick from the outbreak have reported a rumbly stomach and a fever. It can last up to a week.

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- New data will be available on this year’s Illinois School report cards. The report cards provide a snapshot of school demographics and how well students are doing. The State Board of Education’s Rae Clementz says they have added chronic absenteeism rates and new measurements of student proficiency and growth…

 

 

State Board of Education Spokesperson Rae Clementz

School report cards will  be available online starting October 31st at Illinois-Report-Card-Dot-Com

 

 

(Chicago--jc)  -- A report on Illinois’ legal landscape says the state's lawsuit-friendly policies cost billions of dollars and more than 80,000 jobs every year. Some critics say that’s an overstatement. A study conducted by the Illinois Civil Justice League into the cost of tort, or claims of loss or harm, lawsuits and their effect on Illinois’ economy estimates the costs from higher liability insurance premiums and lawsuits themselves cost businesses $4.5 billion directly and another $7.7 billion in economic output every year. The study said this also costs Illinois 81,000 jobs annually.

 

(Chicago--jc)  -- Illinois residents are more at risk of identity theft and fraud than the majority of other states in the U.S.Illinois ranked 13th as a state with the most identity theft and fraud complaints and losses, according to a new report by WalletHub. Wallethub analyst Jill Gonzalez says this is not one of the lists where you want to be closer to the top. Nevada  has the most identity theft and fraud, while. Hawaii ranked last. Gonzalez says Illinois should definitely try to be in the bottom half of a ranking like this. Typically, a consumer loss is around 10 thousand dollars, and Illinois is doubling these numbers at 20 thousand dollars or more. Gonzalez says Illinois ranks so high for cyber theft and fraud because of poor state policies. Illinois consumers can protect themselves by taking measures to ensure their personal information is protected.

 

(Hoopeston--jc)  -- The strong winds on Saturday caused some damage around  the area. In Hoopeston, a tree was blown into a home on 5th avenue and some playground equipment was damaged at Hoopestons McFerren Park. Small limbs from numerous trees were scattered throughout the area. Most communities in East Central Illinois saw branches and small limbs scattered by the high winds

 

(Urbana--jc)  --Coroner Duane Northrup is releasing the name of a Watseka, Illinois man, who has died from traumatic injuries sustained in a motor vehicle versus motor vehicle crash in Iroquois County, Illinois on the evening of October 17th. Eighty-two year old Howard Kissack was reportedly the driver of a vehicle that collided head on with another vehicle. He was pronounced dead at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, Illinois on Friday night. No autopsy will be performed, but an inquest may be held at a later day. This death is being investigated by the Champaign County Coroner’s Office and the Illinois State Police District 21.

 

 

(Champaign--jc)  -- National weather officials are now looking at the winter forecast. State Climatologist Jim Angel with the Illinois Water Survey in Champaign has the details…

 


State Climatologist Jim Angel with the Illinois Water Survey in Champaign.

 

 

(Cullom--jc)  -- Tri Point School board members will get an update on the state board conference in Chicago when they meet tonight. School leaders will also look at updates to the schools reading policy, approve the annual  financial report and and let bids for snow removal. The Tri Point school board meeting comes to order at 7 tonight in Kempton.

 

 

Illinois Supreme Court Reverses Ruling that had Stopped Construction Massive Power Line Through Eastern Illinois

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The Illinois Supreme Court has reversed a ruling that had stopped construction of a massive power line through eastern Illinois. The court's 7-0 ruling Thursday affects 35 Edgar County eminent domain actions by Ameren Transmission Co. to obtain land for the remaining section of a 375-mile cross-state power line. Justice Bob Thomas' opinion found that a circuit court did not have jurisdiction when it ruled that landowners were denied due process.

 

CHICAGO (AP) — Black women who have just given birth in Illinois are more likely to die from pregnancy-related issues within a year than non-Hispanic white women a new study finds. The Illinois Department of Public Health on Thursday released a study of statewide trends in maternal deaths. Researchers found an average of 73 Illinois women die within one year of pregnancy. They also found black women are six times as likely to die of a pregnancy-related condition as white women.

 

(Gibson City--jc)  Saving the district money, that was the main reason for a move to issue nearly 4 and one half million dollars in general obligation  bonds for one local school district. Members of the Gibson City Melvin Sibley school district gave their o-k to the idea. The G-C-M-S school district has several fund balances that are in the black and by consolidating into one bond,  district leaders say that could save G-C-M-S taxpayers around half a million dollars over the next decade.

 

(Woodworth--dg)  -- The 9th Annual Ford-Iroquois 4-H auction will take place Sunday November 18th at St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Woodworth. A pork burger meal starts at 1:30 with the Auction starting at 2pm. Proceeds from this auction are used to cover participation fees for all 4-Hers in Ford and Iroquois County. There will be a wide variety of items to bid on including tools, seed corn, craft items, food and more. Items for sale are donated by local businesses, individuals, and 4-H Clubs. You can find a list of items on the Ford & Iroquois Counties 4-H Facebook page.

 

(Saybrook-ba)  -- The Saybrook American Legion Post 427 will host a chicken and fish fry today from 4:30 to 6:30pm. The menu for tonight includes whole catfish, chicken and walleye, baked beans, coleslaw, and baked potatoes. Walleye is all you can eat.

 

 

(Paxton--ba)  --The local PBL Panther Regiment is performing at a competition on Saturday. P-B-L High School  Drum Major Mikayla Jones gives more information as well as her own experience as Drum Major.

 

 

P-B-L High School Drum Major Mikayla Jones

 

 

(Paxton--ba)  - An Interstate 57 overpass is to be dedicated to local Illinois heroes. WPXN’s Braedon Arnett has the story.

 

 

(Bellflower--jc)  The Bellflower Country Opry’s is set to perform tomorrow night in the village. The country music show begins at 7 Saturday night at the Bellflower Community Center. Guest performer is Cindy Suttles Moore, a seasoned singer from Decatur. Admission to the show costs $10; children ages 12 and under enter for free. Prior to the show, starting at 5 p.m., a pulled-pork dinner will be served for a $6 fee.

 

The Paxton IGA is hosting a cookout from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, in its parking lot to help raise funds for the Lake Iroquois Women’s Club. The IGA is located at 144 W. Pells St. in Paxton. Pork chop sandwiches, chips and soda pop will be for sale.

 

(Undated--jc)  Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s BiCentennial minute…

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The Illinois Supreme Court has ruled that a police canine's detection of drugs outside an apartment door in an unlocked building is an unlawful search. The court ruled 4-3 Thursday that the common area outside any apartment door is a legal part of a home. Justice Thomas Kilbride's opinion determined that police need a warrant before a drug-sniffing dog can search it.

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  The state’s unemployment rate held steady last month. The September jobless rate came in a four point one percent. That was the same as August, but a figure  Illinois has not seen in awhile says State Department of Employment Security’s Bob Gough..

 

 

State Department of Employment Security Spokesperson Bob Gough.

 

Chatsworth, IL – The Illinois State Rifle Association Political Victory Fund has formally endorsed Bruce Rauner for Governor and is urging all gun owners in Illinois to support Governor Rauner’s candidacy. Illinois State Rifle Association President Richard Pearson says the 2nd Amendment is not on the front page in  this election cycle Pearson says Governor Rauner has been an ally for  2nd Amendment rights and freedoms. Pearson believes JB Pritzker represents an existential threat to Illinois gun owners.  The group held an event in Marion to endorse Rauner in the

race for Illinois Governor

 

PEORIA, Ill. (AP) — A 47-year-old central Illinois man faces federal charges of child sexual exploitation for allegedly using a social media site to try to contact and meet minors. Springfield's U.S. attorney's office says Charles A. Hewitt, of Creve Coeur, had been convicted in 2014 of a sex offense. An indictment returned this week accuses him of engaging in the sexual exploitation of three minors starting in 2017. He allegedly used phony names and profile pictures on the site to appear as a 15-year-old boy.

 

(Buckley--ba)  -- The last Sunday in the month is a good day for a good meal. On

October 28th, its Octoberfest in Buckley from 4pm to 6-30 at the Buckley American Legion. Christ Lutheran High School Spokesperson  Charlie Goldenstein says to come out and celebrate Octoberfest with the proceeds to help Christian education...

 

 

Christ Lutheran High School Spokesperson Charlie Goldenstein

 

MATTOON, Ill. (AP) — No, you're not seeing things: Those are pelicans out on by lakes in the Mattoon and Shelbyville area. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers natural resource specialist Lee Mitchell says migrating American white pelicans have been stopping by on their way to and from the Gulf Coast from the Dakotas every spring and fall in recent years.

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The remains of homes burned down during race riots that ravaged Springfield, Illinois in 1908 will be excavated and artifacts uncovered will be curated. The burned homes were found in 2014 during a building project to consolidate rail traffic through the city. The block-long site has remained untouched while the Federal Railroad Administration, the city, the Illinois Historic Preservation Office and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation formulated a plan and signed off on it.

 

(Paxton--ba)  -- The Paxton Buckley Loda High School Panther Regiment performs this Saturday night in El Paso. P-B-L  Band director Tim Hess says what kind of music the attendees can expect.

 

 

P-B-L Band director Tim Hess


 

CHICAGO (AP) — Four people who say they were sexually abused decades ago by five priests in parishes across Illinois are suing every diocese in the state for the abuse itself and what they say is a widespread and ongoing scheme to cover up clergy abuse. The lawsuit filed Thursday in Chicago alleges the abuse by the priests took place between the early 1970s until the late 1990s

 

The movie “Peter Rabbit” will be shown free of charge at 7 p.m. tonight at the Melvin Community Hall. Those attending are asked to bring a blanket or rug on which to sit.

 

 

The Ford County Republican Central Committee will meet from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Saturday, at Ne’s Place in Piper City. The public is welcome to attend.

Governor Bruce Rauner is Highlighting Illinois' Efforts to Become a "Smarter State."

(Chicago--jc)  --While a couple of state budget analysis groups differ on how much more Democratic gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker could spend if he's elected, they agree Pritzker will cost taxpayers more.When considering education funding, pension and backlogged debt payments, infrastructure and other Pritzker proposed programs, Illinois Policy Institute puts Pritzker’s estimated spending up to $18 billion more than what the state spends now. The conservative groups says that estimates show the cost of the democrat’s spending promises demand an income tax hike of $13 billion dollars plus for fiscal 2020 alone.

 

(Springfield--ab) Governor Bruce Rauner is highlighting Illinois’ efforts to become a “smarter state.” Governor Rauner told a national governors association conference that Illinois is at the forefront of the effort. That includes making most license applications and renewals available online among other initiatives...

 

 

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner

The Governor says the state is working to make more online state services accessible via mobile phone and nearly all Illinois school districts now have high speed internet.

 

 

BLOOMINGTON — A LeRoy physician and attorney has filed a $1.8 million lawsuit against Bob and Ed Brady, who he claims have defaulted on a loan. The Pantagraph reports that Thomas Pliura and his wife, Pam, filed the lawsuit this week in McLean County, claiming the Bradys borrowed $1 million through a loan agreement dated October of  2010, but have not made any repayment.The Pantagraph reports that both sides made no comments on the lawsuit on Wednesday.

 

 

(Gifford--jc)  -- Gifford School leaders say the roof project on the old gym at the school is now complete. The roof has a new warranty from the manufacturer. Superintendent Rod Grimsley says the final payment on the project will go out this month. School leaders are meeting with architect Dan Wakefield to get cost estimates to repair the south exterior wall of the old gym.

 

 

(Springfield--ab) State lawmakers are continuing to look into legalizing sports betting in Illinois. Many testifying at a house committee hearing on the topic urged legislators not to rush into a sports gaming program. There are many factors to consider, such as state regulation, how much to tax betting and should it be allowed both online and at establishments says spectrum gaming group managing director michael pollock.

 

 

Spectrum Gaming Group Managing Director Michael Pollock.

Lawmakers are also again discussing allowing more casinos in Illinois and slot machines at horse racing tracks.

 

 

CHICAGO (AP) — Ten current and former staffers are suing Democratic Illinois governor candidate J.B. Pritzker's campaign, saying they were harassed and discriminated against because of their race. The billionaire businessman's campaign said Wednesday the lawsuit was filed after they rejected a settlement offer to pay $7.5 million in damages. The African-American and Latino staffers said in the lawsuit that they were forced to work in unsafe areas and offered "no meaningful opportunity for advancement."


 

CHICAGO (AP) — A former Miss America who is running for Illinois attorney general once said that many victims of sexual harassment "become very promiscuous" think: "That's what I want to be." Republican Erika Harold is stressing her experience as an anti-bullying advocate as she seeks the job of Illinois' top legal officer. She made the comments after winning the 2003 Miss America pageant, and her campaign stood by them Wednesday.

 

(Rantoul--jc) One local church is using breakfast to help raise money for a mission trip to Tanzania. . Those with the American Lutheran Church in Rantoul are hosting a breakfast burrito fundraiser on Saturday and  Sunday. The bags contain 5 breakfast burritos for a suggested 10 dollar donation. More information is found by call American Lutheran Church in Rantoul.

 

 

(Paxton--jc)  -- When Ford County voters go to the polls on November 6th, they will be asked to approve a quarter of one cent tax for public safety purposes. The money would only be used for specific safety issues facing the county. Several area counties are currently using this type of sales tax. Polls open on Tuesday November 6th from 6am until 7pm.

 

 

(Paxton--ab) The Ford County Department of Public Health is offering Flu vaccines for the upcoming flu season. Dianne Tavenner with the Ford County Department of Public Health explains how the public can get their flu shot.

 

 

Ford County Public Health Department Spokesperson Dianne Tavenner

 

 

(Undated--jc)  -- Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial minute…

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  --Illinois officials have their eyes on a potential payday from legalizing new forms of gambling, but state revenue specialists warn that it may not be the jackpot they’re hoping for. Illinois lawmakers are looking to bank some revenue on a trifecta of legalizing sports betting, online internet gaming and fantasy sports. The state would follow New Jersey in legalizing sports betting after a landmark Supreme Court case in May allowed for sports betting outside of Nevada. September was the first month of recorded revenue reflecting New Jersey’s new availability of gaming. The state of New Jersey recorded 24 million dollars in total revenue from legalized sports on 184 million in wagers.

 

(Paxton--jc)  -- The Ford County  Public Health Department has flu clinics set.

WPXN’s Braedon Arnett has the  information.

 

 

 

(Buckley--ba)  For those looking to celebrate the holidays a little early, one local school has the answer. Christ Lutheran High School Spokesperson  Charlie Goldenstein talks about a unique holiday shopping experience....

 

 

Buckley based Christ Lutheran High School Spokesperson Charlie Goldenstein

 

 

(Champaign County--jc  Six cases of Legionnaire’s disease are being confirmed in Champaign-Urbana. All 6 are from Champaign County and several locations are being investigated as the source, says Illinois Public Health Director Doctor Nirav Shah…..

 

 

Illinois Public Health Director Doctor Nirav Shah

 

(Paxton--jc)  -- Education support employees in one local school district are getting a raise. Paxton-Buckley-Loda School board members gave their o-k to a raise from minimum wage to 9 dollars 50 cents hourly for the substitute teachers. The district had, until passing the raise, paid only minimum wage.

 

 

(Rantoul--jc)  -- A California company is set to buy 4 hangers and a call center on the former Chanute Air Force Base. Rantoul leaders say economic development at the airport remains a top priority for Rantoul and numerous opportunities are available. The sale of the properties will become final at the end of November. The final hanger purchase will be completed sometime in early 20-19.

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(Washington--jc)  If you are preparing elaborate electrical outdoor displays for Halloween, keep in mind some electrical safety tips. Rod Bain reports…

 

 

 

(Paxton--dg)  --The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce will be having after hours later today at the Frederick Community Bank in Paxton. The event takes place from 5:30-7pm. The Frederick Community Bank will also be having an open house today during business hours. The public is invited to come and sign up for some great prizes they will be giving away.

 

 

(Rantoul--jc)  The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers. These volunteers will help with donations with the red kettles and ringers for the holidays. The donations begin on November 16th. More information is found by contacting the Salvation Army on North Prospect in Champaign or calling 217- 373- 3782

Paxton Park District and WPXN Radio to Sponsor the Annual Paxton Halloween Parade on  Wednesday, Oct. 31st.

(Paxton --jc)  The Paxton Park District and WPXN Radio are sponsoring the annual Halloween Parade on  Wednesday, Oct. 31st. The parade begins at 4 Halloween afternoon at the Paxton Carnegie Library in the downtown area. Kids in costume  will go north on Market with their destination being the Paxton Fire Station. Treat bags will be given and Halloween safety material will be provided by Ford County Sheriffs and Paxton Police and Ford County Crimestoppers officials. After the parade, kids are encouraged to trick-or-treat back down Market Street where they'll get more candy and goodies by stopping by all of the local participating businesses.   

 

(KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 16, 2018) – Online voting will close Friday at 5 p.m. for the 2018 Tank of the Year contest sponsored by Tnemec Company, Incorporated. The company is a leading provider of high-performance protective coatings. People can vote for their favorite water tank at  tank of the year-dot com-- where photos of this year’s nominated water tanks are posted. Only one vote is allowed per person. After online voting has ended, the water tank receiving the most online votes will be named the People’s Choice and receive an automatic bid as a finalist for the 2018 Tank of the Year title. The People’s Choice winner and the 11 finalists selected by a committee will be announced on Oct. 22nd with the champion announced on October 26th. Three towers locally are on the list. They are two water towers in Rantoul and one in Gibson City.

 

JOLIET, Ill. (AP) — A suburban Chicago gymnastics coach has been charged with sexually assaulting a girl he trained at a gym in Channahon. Will County prosecutors say 68-year-old Jose Vilchis committed sexual abuse and assault against the girl in late 2012 or 2013 while he was coaching her at I&M Gymnastics. Authorities say the girl was between the ages of 13 and 17 at the time of the assaults. Bond was set at $300,000. It wasn't immediately known if Vilchis has legal representation.

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Illinois officials have a message for voters this election season: Your vote is safe. State Board of Elections chairman William Cadigan told reporters in Chicago Tuesday that voters should rest assure that their November 6th votes are secure. Illinois National Guard Adjutant General Richard Hayes will be able to help…

 

Illinois National Guard Adjutant General Richard Hayes.

 


(Springfield--jc)  -- The state of Illinois has improved greatly the amount of money it is giving to K through 12 grade schools in the state. Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner says that was a goal for he and a non-partisan group of state lawmakers. Rauner says more money needs to be given to colleges and trade schools…

 

 

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner

 

URBANA, Ill. (AP) — A top University of Illinois administrator says he expects action within several months on recommendations toward quelling the ongoing turmoil over the school's former Chief Illiniwek mascot.Chancellor Robert Jones told the campus senate this week that he's working to create "a coalition of the willing" to implement a university report released last month. That report suggested the school adopt a new sports mascot to replace the Chief Illiniwek portrayal that was dropped in 2007 after complaints from American Indians that it was offensive. The campus senate voted 64-29 in favor of a resolution backing the report recommendations.Education Professor Nick Burbules sponsored the resolution and said he believes it's past time for a new mascot. But he said the mascot selection risks causing more division.

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Recreational areas up and down the state will be sharing more than $1.5 million in federal grant money to repair bridges, build trails, purchase property and help pay for other projects.In a news release, Gov. Bruce Rauner's office says the projects are in eleven communities and include city park districts, county forest preserve districts as well as Southern Illinois University and Prairie State College. Locally, the village of Mahomet will net a 98 thousand dollar federal grant for a concrete trail though a local  forest and water area. THe area will also include an overlook to accommodate visitors with disabilities. The money will come from the Recreational Trails Program, a federal grant program that in Illinois is administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources in cooperation with the state's transportation department.

 

 

(Paxton--ab)  Should 6th graders be able to play on 7th and 8th grade sports teams at Paxton Buckley Loda Schools. That was the topic earlier this week for the P-B-L school Extra Curricular Committee. The group also talked about what is getting reported to the board of education from coaches in the district.

 

 

CHICAGO (AP) — Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democratic governor candidate J.B. Pritzker each reported income of roughly $55 million last year. Rauner and Pritzker released partial 2017 tax returns Tuesday. Rauner is a multimillionaire former private equity investor. Pritzker is an entrepreneur and a billionaire heir to the Hyatt hotel fortune. Neither candidate has released his full returns or provided detailed documentation on the source of his income.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is Today’s Bicentennial minute…

 

 

BLOOMINGTON — State Farm will remove the iconic red letters spelling out its name at its former headquarters in downtown Bloomington.The company has hired local contractor P.J. Hoerr Incorporated of  Normal and Peoria for the job. State Farm has stopped lighting the letters in the sign earlier this month The company has been marketing the 9 million dollar building to several interested companies.

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- A legal scholar who studies public and private investment funds says the people who are managing taxpayer-funded retirement plans are looking out for pensioners when they should be focused on what’s best for taxpayers.Publicly funded retirement boards are responsible for directing pension investments. Historically, they’ve acted on behalf of the pensioners and soon-to-be-retirees that are paying into the fund. Ohio State University professor Paul Rose, who is Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at the Robert J. Watkins/Procter & Gamble Professor of Law, proposes that they should be acting on behalf of taxpayers because taxpayers are largely responsible for contributions and would be expected to foot the bill for any funding shortfalls.

 

(Washington--jc)  -- Soybean maturation is ahead of schedule, but the news is not as good for harvest or condition. Stephanie Ho reports…

 

 

 

(Champaign--jc)  Champaign County Crimestoppers is seeking information about a 22 year old man from Champaign. John Gonzalez is wanted for failure to appear on a aggravated use of a weapons charge. Gonzalez is described as 5 foot 10 inches tall, black hair and brown eyes. Bond on the weapons charge was set at 25 thousand dollars and bond on an aggravated DUI charge was set at 10 thousand dollars. Anyone with information about Gonzalez is asked to call Champaign County Crimestoppers at 217-373-8477

 

(Champaign county--jc)   Several in Champaign County have Legionnaires Disease. Champaign County  Public health officials have confirmed six cases of Legionnaires' Disease within the  County.The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District announced on Tuesday that six county residents have been diagnosed with the illness since September 15th. Symptoms typically begin two to 10 days following exposure and may include diarrhea, muscle aches, vomiting, nausea, fever and chills. Shortness of breath, coughing, headaches, or mental confusion may also be common. The disease does not usually spread from person to person.

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  --In an effort to reduce interest payments, Gov. Bruce Rauner signed SB 2858 into law, allowing Illinois to invest funding from other sectors to generate interest monies.The new law could save the state up to 100 million dollars a year in interest payments, according to Treasurer Michael Frerichs. He says , now, if the state has a bill that is more than 90 days late, they start paying 1 percent interest per month, so effectively 12 percent interest annually. The governor says it makes sense to borrow money at a lower rate. The state can not use the money from other funds, but by investing, can get to the 100 million dollars in interest for the state.

 

 

(Bloomington--jc)  Democrat gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker made a stop in Bloomington on Tuesday to talk with officials from the Pantagraph. The Democrat talked about his  "kitchen table issues" and also gave more criticism of incumbent Governor Bruce Rauner. The Pantagraph reports the Democratic nominee for governor put stagnant wages, labor training, health care and college costs front and center as he laid out his vision for the state. Illinois voters go to the polls to elect a governor among other state and area officials on Tuesday November 6th.

 

 

 

(Lexington--jc)  -- One McLean County town is set to celebrate the holidays with a special event. Officials in Lexington say the “Christmas on the Prairie” day is set for December First from 9am until 8pm The event starts out at the Lexington School with a vendor fair...which also includes Breakfast with Santa, a children’s shopping area and fresh Christmas tree & wreath sale until 2pm. Shopping in the downtown area, food from local restaurants, holiday crafts and a festival of trees also hi-lite the event.

Vice President Mike Pence Says Republican U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis has Emerged as a Voice for Conservative Values in Congress

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Vice President Mike Pence says Republican U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis has emerged as a voice for conservative values in Congress and is urging his supporters to get out the vote in the midterm elections. Pence campaigned for Davis on Friday at a fundraising event in Springfield, Illinois. Davis' seat is one Democrats are targeting as they try to regain control of the House. The Taylorville Republican faces a challenge from Democrat Betsy Dirksen Londrigan of Springfield.

 

(Rantoul--jc)  -- Two school aged children reported to Rantoul school authorities on Friday afternoon concerning a man appearing along their walk home and then running into a nearby cornfield. Police say the two students were walking home near Pleasant Acres Elementary school on Friday afternoon when the man came into their view, ran towards them and then disappearing into a cornfield. Rantoul authorities continue to look at clues in the incident. Anyone with information is asked to call the Rantoul Police Department.

 

(Springfield--jc)  --As the debate about Illinois’ income tax structure continues in the race for governor, some General Assembly candidates in contested districts are weighing in on the premise.Democratic candidate for governor J.B. Pritzker wants to change Illinois’ flat income tax to one that taxes higher earners at higher rates. Republicans have called it a blank check for government spending because it would be politically easier to raise taxes on only some taxpayers.Pritzker has repeatedly refused to give details about the income levels or tax rates in his plan. He has said he’ll negotiate that with lawmakers if elected.

 

 

(Chicago--jc)  -- Loyola University’s Sister Jean is being inducted into the Illinois Senior Hall of Fame. The Seniors Illinoisans Hall of Fame was created more than 20 years ago. 99 year old Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt urges seniors to keep moving… 

 

 

Illinois Senior Hall of Fame member Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt.

Sister Jean has worked in elementary education, has been a coach, principal and college dean. She has served as Loyola basketball team chaplain since 1994.

 

 

(Paxton--jc)  With the leaves starting to fall, city of Paxton leaders remind those living in Paxton, there is a burning ban. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the issue has been talked about for many years and a new ordinance is now law…

 

 

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

 

CLINTON — DeWitt County authorities are investigating the death of a 12-year-old girl, who was found unresponsive at her home in Clinton  Friday morning. Clinton police and emergency medical crews were called to a North Maple Street house around 6-30 Friday morning and found the girl unresponsive.  Daphne J. Peavler was pronounced dead at the scene by Dewitt County Coroner Randy Rice. She was a student at Clinton Junior High School.Clinton School District 15. Counselors will be at the school again to help students deal with the death.

 

 

(Washington--jc)  -- U-S-D-A's October crop production forecast for corn and soybeans shows slight adjustments down from the previous month, yet in record territory in production and yield totals. Rod Bain reports…

 


 

The Cissna Park American Legion Auxiliary is hosting a vendor Bazaar on Saturday October 27th to support local veterans. The event runs from 9am til 3pm. Food served from 9am -2pm at the Cissna Park American Legion. Many Local and area vendors will be set up. Dave’s Old Settlers Fish, baked goodies and more will be available.

 

 

(UNdated--jc)  -- Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial Minute…

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Republicans who gained ground in the Illinois General Assembly two years ago with Gov. Bruce Rauner's financial help face a tougher go of it this year. Rauner and his top contributors poured more than $40 million into legislative races in 2016. The GOP picked up seats in the House and Senate. Rauner hoped for further gains in 2018. But he's struggling in a re-election bid against Democrat J.B. Pritzker.

 

(Paxton--ab) Paxton is going to work on the Pells Park Pavillion and it starts with the roof. Paxton  Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the project will proceed on the report from the most recent Paxton City Council meeting.

 

 

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold.

 

(Paxton--jc)  -- One week from Monday at 10am, a ceremony will take place to dedicate the overpass of County road 200 North at Interstate 57 as the McCarter-Caisse-Vice-Hale Memorial Overpass. The event takes place at the Paxton Firehouse on north Market Street. On April 7, 1979 Illinois State Trooper Michael McCarter, Paxton Patrolman William Caisse, and civilian Donald Vice were shot and killed and Paxton Patrolman Larry Hale was seriously wounded following a traffic stop on I 57 near this overpass. This dedication is appropriate to remember sacrifices and contributions made by law enforcement and civilians to protect the safety of the public.State legislators who promoted the passage of House Resolution 21, State Representative Thomas H Bennett and State Senator Jason A Barickman will be in attendance, as well as Illinois State Police Director Leo P. Schmitz.

 

(Washington--jc)  -- While the number of Halloween outdoor displays grow every year, so do concerns about clearing a safe path for trick-or-treaters coming to a home. Rod Bain has the story…

 

 

 

(McLean County--jc)   The City of Normal is looking to  trade up to 8 million dollars in future property tax revenue along with  300 parking spaces and two buildings for the uptown's next redevelopment project. Bush Construction based in Iowa would net the tax increment financing  or TIF dollars,under the plan.The area in question is the 100 block of Beaufort Street in the city.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  -- Medicare part D open enrollment starts today and runs through December 7th. Officials from the insurance industry and federal government say this is the time to review your medicare choices and make changes that are the best for you. Those new to the process can get some help from local government and insurance agents. Again, the enrollment period starts today and runs through December 7th.

 

 

(Rantoul--ab) Danville Mayor Scott Eisenhauer is the new Rantoul village administrator. Rantoul leaders talked about the requirements for the job and came up with a solution to Eisenhauer says Rantoul Mayor  Chuck Smith...

 

 

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

 

 

(Rantoul--jc)  -- One area church is hosting a truck and treat event and the end of the month. The event takes place on October 31st at the Rantoul United Methodist Church located at 200 South Century Boulevard in the village. More information about the truck and treat event is found by contacting the church.
 

Relive the Past in Form of Political Participation at the Truman Whistle Stop 1948 in Danville

CARBONDALE, Ill. (AP) — Southern Illinois University-Carbondale Chancellor Carlo Montemagno has died at age 62. The university says Montemagno died Thursday morning, but it didn't reveal the cause of death. Montemagno in June revealed in his blog that he was suffering from cancer. Montemagno, a professor of engineering, became chancellor of SIU Carbondale in August 2017. In November, Montemagno announced a plan to eliminate academic departments and department heads amid plummeting enrollment.

 

LIBERTYVILLE, Ill. (AP) — A newspaper obtained recordings that show a suburban Chicago police officer allowing an officer from a neighboring community whose blood-alcohol level after a traffic stop was more than twice the legal limit to call for a ride home rather than take him to jail. The Lake County News-Sun reports that the squad car dashboard camera footage and video footage obtained it obtained show the November 2017 traffic stop of Waukegan Police officer Daniel Ramirez by Libertyville Officer Richard Kelly.

 

(Rantoul--ab)  -- Rantoul has officially hired Scott Eisenhauer. Mayor of Danville, to be the Village Administrator in Rantoul. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says Eisenhauer was the right choice for the job...

 

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

 

(Paxton--ab) The Paxton Buckley Loda school district is undergoing some major renovations with their buildings. P-B-L School Superintendent Cliff McClure says all is going to plan…

 

P-B-L School Superintendent Cliff McClure

 

 

CHICAGO (AP) — The Obama Foundation is launching an initiative aimed at boosting educational opportunities for girls around the world. Former first lady Michelle Obama on Thursday announced the Global Girls Alliance that will work with organizations worldwide to increase public awareness and action. The Chicago-based foundation says more than 98 million adolescent girls worldwide don't go to school.

 

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) — The University of Illinois Gies College of Business is now behind football coach Lovie Smith when he answers questions about the team. The business college's name is emblazoned on the backdrop for Smith's press conferences. It's part of a "branding" effort by the business college, which was named after donors Larry and Beth Gies. Dean Jeffrey Brown says the college will no longer be out-marketed and out-competed by its peers. Brown is a former brand manager at Procter and Gamble.

 

 

(McLean-Dewitt Counties--jc) -  Dewitt County, McLean County and Farmer City police are warning the public about a current phone scam. Police say the tactics are old but this particular occurrence is new occurrence is new. The scam involves an attempt to deceive the victim that the caller is family. The caller will start by saying something like "Grandma?". This is done in an effort to elicit information that helps them trick the victim into sending money.The suspects  have used a local McLean County number in the scam. Anyone who receives a call like this is asked to hang up and report it to local authorities

 

 

(Danville-dg)-On Sunday October 14th, you can relive the past in form of political participation at the Truman Whistle Stop 1948 in Danville. This is an interactive all-ages reenactment complete with 1940s cars, posters, buttons, music, food, a replica Ferdinand Magellan train car, and, of course, Harry S. Truman. And then join in for a conversation with the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum archivist Sam Rushay and local historian Tim Smith about the political history of Danville and its significance in the 1948 campaign. This free event is being produced by the Vermilion County Museum and Illinois Humanities as part of the celebration of the Illinois Bicentennial.

 

(Undated--jc)  -- Illlinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial Minute…

 

 

(Quincy--jc) --  Democratic candidate for governor J.B. Pritzker would not give details about his graduated income-tax plan in the final televised debate with Republican Governor Bruce Rauner. Pritzker and Rauner faced off Thursday night in Quincy. Pritzker has proposed replacing the state's flat tax rate with a progressive income tax .Pritzker was asked how a Peoria public school teacher would fare under his plan. He says the teacher should get a "tax break."

Rauner says Pritzker wouldn't provide details "because he knows the middle class is going to get crushed."Pritzker said after the debate he won't discuss specifics because the plan would have to be negotiated with the Legislature if he becomes governor. Rauner says the people of Illinois would like to know the scary details.

 

RANTOUL — Free introductory airplane flights for kids ages 8 to 17 will be offered Sunday afternoon from 1pm to 3 pm. The event is set for the Rantoul Aviation Center. The flights are on a first-come, first-served basis. No pre registration is required, but a parent or guardian must accompany the youth and be able to sign a release form. Those interested are asked come to the main hangar at the airport.The flights are being offered by volunteer pilots of the Experimental Aircraft Association.

 

(Springfield--jc) -- State technology experts say cyber security begins with a sold password. In updating our story from earlier today, Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology Spokesperson Jennifer Rominger says you need a stronger password at home, where you may not have the firewall protections you have at work…

 

 

Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology Spokesperson  Jennifer Rominger.

 

 

ASHKUM, IL- Illinois State Police (ISP) District 21 is reporting the arrest of Joseph S. Benegas, 32, of Manteno for Battery and Interference with Emergency Communication. Thursday morning an Illinois State Trooper was dispatched to a battery that was taking place along route 45 in Iroquois County. The trooper arrived on scene and observed a female victim in the southwest ditch along the road. The suspect, Joseph Benegas, was walking northbound from her location. Benegas was taken into custody without incident. A male victim was located in the northeast ditch. Both victims were checked for injuries by emergency personnel, and refused treatment. Benegas was transported to the Iroquois County Jail for processing. Benegas was charged with two counts of Battery and Interference with Emergency Communication.

 

(Undated--jc)  --Races up and down the state will determine who will be in the Illinois statehouse and could shape how the state addresses its massive pension debt. Illinois’ unfunded public pension liability is at least 130 billion dollars. Add in other post employment benefits and that debt eclipses 200 billion dollars. The state's pension costs have continued to climb, crowding out spending in other areas. Some candidates running in the contested General Assembly races in the suburbs of Chicago are looking at ways to tackle the issue.In the 19th Illinois House District, incumbent Democratic state Rep. Robert Martwick said Illinois needs to frontload the pension payments. Illinois voters would have to change the constitution to allow for a progressive income tax before that could happen.Martwick’s Republican challenger, Ammie Kessem, said Martwick’s plan will increase taxes on everyone. She wants to get rid of pensions for future state employees.

 

 

(Washington--jc)  The United States is one step closer to seeing year-round sales of E-15 gasoline Gary Crawford reports…

 

 

 

The Melvin Community Hall will host Michael J. on Saturday October 13th. Michael J. is considered to have one of the smoothest voices and largest vocal ranges in the world. He is known for his comedy and impersonations, especially his tribute to Barney Fife. Admission is $10 for those 13 and older. Doors open at 5:30 with the show to begin at 7pm. The Melvin Women’s Club will be serving sloppy joe sandwiches, chips and pie.

 

 

The Village of Buckley will be having golf cart games and a free movie in the park at Buckley Lake Park this Saturday. Registration for the golf cart games begins at 3:30 with a variety of games beginning at 4pm. Entry is $10 per cart. Closing ceremonies will take place around 6:30. Then the free showing of the movie Sandlot will begin at 7pm. Food vendors will be on hand beginning at 4:30.

 

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- It’s Friday of National Fire Prevention week and the state fire marshall is urging you to Look, Listen and Learn. State Fire Marshall Matt Perez says families should look for potential fire hazards around the house, including frayed electrical cords to space heaters. Perez also says you should also test and “listen” for the smoke alarm…

 

 

Illinois Fire Marshall Matt Perez

Perez says once you hear a smoke alarm you have only minutes to get to a safe place.

 

 

 

Election Day is Just Under One Month Away, But There is Still Time to Register to Vote

ROCKFORD, Ill. (AP) — An Illinois judge is rebuffing claims that a youth football coach brandished a gun during a fight with parents. Two Indiana men are facing charges stemming from the Saturday fight in Rockford. They were coaches for the Calumet City Thunderbolts when a post-game fight broke out with Rockford Renegades coaches and parents. The Rockford Register Star reports witnesses told police they saw one coach with a gun. But during a hearing Wednesday, the judge said the weapon was found in the coach's car.

 

(Springfield--jc)  There's a little less than a month till Election Day, but there's still plenty of time to register to vote.   In Illinois, voters can register to vote up to and on Election Day. Matt Dietrich with the Illinois State Board of Elections said no one needs to worry that they missed a deadline for the November election. Tuesday was simply the last day to register now, and vote later. Dietrich says in Illinois, voter registration never closes and one can register right up to, and on Election Day itself. The one difference is the beginning today,  if you go in to register to vote at your county clerk's office and register in person, you will have to vote at the same time you register. The fall election is Tuesday November 6th.

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- Getting taxes under control for Illinois is one campaign pledge for incumbent governor Bruce Rauner. The governor says reducing the property taxes comes with more local control of property taxes…

 

 

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner



SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The U.S. Energy Department has named Argonne National Laboratory as one of seven recipients of federal funding to improve geothermal energy-extraction methods. The department announced $11.4 million in research and development funding Tuesday. Officials say geothermal energy is crucial but extraction is costly and time-consuming. Lemont-based Argonne's job will be to develop low-cost but hard materials to develop drill bits capable of doubling the rate of penetration in geothermal wells.

 

 

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — America's recycling industry is in the dumps.

A crash in the global market for recyclables is forcing communities to make hard choices about whether they can afford to keep recycling or should simply send all those bottles, cans and plastic containers to the landfill.Mountains of paper have piled up at sorting centers, worthless. Cities and towns that once made money on recyclables are instead paying high fees to processing plants to take them. Some financially strapped recycling processors have shut down entirely, leaving municipalities with no choice but to dump or incinerate their recyclables.

 

(Paxton--ab) During this weeks Paxton City council meeting, Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold nominated a replacement on the council. Mayor Ingold talks about the process to replace alderman Flessner...

 

 

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

 

 

CHICAGO (AP) — The orchestra of the Lyric Opera of Chicago has walked off the job. Lyric Opera Orchestra musicians set up a picket line outside the Civic Opera House on Tuesday. The musicians are citing the company's proposal to cut the number of orchestra musicians by five positions. The opera company also wants to cut the pay of remaining musicians by 8 percent and the number of working weeks by two weeks to 22 weeks.


 

(Springfield--ab) October is cyber security awareness month and state officials say “phishing” scams present some of the biggest dangers. Clicking on bogus emails can give hackers a gateway to your personal information or data at work. State chief information security officer Chris Hill says these emails have gotten more sophisticated and detailed in hopes the recipient will open the message.

 

 

State Chief Information Security Officer Chris Hill

This can include threats against your family or your career if you don’t send money…or claiming money is waiting for you if you send certain personal details. hill says the best thing to do is delete any suspicious emails without opening them and report the incident to your employer.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  -- Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial minute…

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- The Illinois Department of Public Health is confirming 9 cases of an uncommon nervous system condition The patients are under 18, from the northern part of Illinois and all have been hospitalized with acute flaccid myelitis. Illinois Public Health Director Doctor Nirav Shah says it can be caused by a variety of viruses…

 

 

Illinois Public Health Director Doctor Nirav Shah.

There is no specific treatment so patients are cared for on a case by case basis.

 

SPRINGFIELD - Governor Bruce Rauner Wednesday announced the release of funds for more than $14 million in capital improvement projects at state parks and recreation areas managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). This money was included in the FY19 bipartisan budget signed in June and will be used for capital improvements to parks statewide. The governor says Illinois has some of the nation’s best state parks and recreation areas. The  park improvement and maintenance projects include the Argyle Lake State Park in McDonough Co., Fort Massac State Park in Massac Co., the Illinois and Michigan Canal in northeast Illinois, and Kankakee River State Park in Kankakee County.

 

(Bloomington--jc)  -- After about 10 months in federal prison, former McLean County board chairman Matt Sorensen has completed his sentence on wire fraud charges. According to the Pantagraph, he was sentenced last year to a year and a day in prison for illegal consulting work while he was working at State Farm. The 52 year old Sorenson  left the federal prison in Marion in mid-September for a halfway house in Chicago to begin his transition back into the community. In addition to the time in prison, he will complete a year of supervised release


 

(Champaign County--jc)  Six people, including 4 children were involved in a multi-vehicle crash Wednesday afternoon north of Champaign. Police say one vehicle going east on Ford Harris Road approaching North Market Street just before 4pm yesterday, when he failed to  stop. The vehicle crashed into the driver's side of a vehicle headed southbound on Market Street. A third northbound vehicle on Market Street was forced off the road to avoid the collision. Police said four children and two adults were taken to an area hospital, where they were treated for  non-life threatening injuries.

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- It’s National Fire prevention week and the state fire marshall is urging families to look, listen and learn. That is the theme of this year’s campaign. Fire Marshall Matt Perez says  you should first look for places a fire could start…

 

 

State Fire Marshall Matt Perez

Perez adds that families should also “listen” for the sound of the smoke alarm and “learn two ways out of every room in the house.

 

(Gibson City---jc)  Gibson City police are closing down their Thursday night shoots for the season. Officials say it’s due to outside  circumstances. The department will open specifically on November 10th from noon until 4pm for those who would like to shoot handguns or dial in a deer gun before the 1st gun season. More information is found by contacting the Gibson City Police Department.



 

URBANA — A Rantoul man was sentenced to probation on Wednesday after being found guilty a year ago of nine counts of felony theft related to services and goods he took from eight contractors on a building project in downtown Rantoul. The News Gazette says 49 year old Chuck Duckworth,  was working on the former Litchfield Hardware building in the downtown area of the village when the infractions occurred. Duckworth was sentenced to four years probation and ordered to pay restitution of 95 thousand ,331 dollars. He will also perform 200 hours of public service work.

 

 

(Washington--jc) -- Corn is nearly all mature, nationwide. Stephanie Ho reports…

 

 

The Village of Buckley will be having golf cart games and a free movie in the park at Buckley Lake Park this Saturday. Registration for the golf cart games begins at 3:30 with a variety of games beginning at 4pm. Entry is $10 per cart. Closing ceremonies will take place around 6:30. Then the free showing of the movie Sandlot will begin at 7pm. Food vendors will be on hand beginning at 4:30.

 

Rantoul village Board Members Vote Unanimously to Approve the Hiring of Danville Mayor Scott Eisenhauer as Rantoul Village Administrator

(Rantoul--jc)  It’s official, Rantoul village board members voted unanimously to approve the hiring of Danville Mayor Scott Eisenhauer as Rantoul Village Administrator. The process to hire the new administrator started in June as Current Rantoul Village Administrator Rick Snider resigned as his family is moving to the East Coast. Eisenhauer begins his duties with the village on November 5th. His annual salary is 100 thousand dollars. Rick Snider has again agreed to extend his employment through the end of the month as administrator.

 

(Springfield--ab) The latest version of the Illinois Lottery’s “Ticket For The Cure” instant game is now available. About 28 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day in Illinois…and this ticket raises money for the fight against the disease says acting Lottery Director Harold Mays.

 

 

Lottery Director Harold Mays.

Ticket for the cure costs three dollars and offers a top prize of 50 thousand bucks.

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Archaeological work could begin this fall on the remains of seven homes destroyed during the 1908 race riots in Springfield, Illinois in a  deadly unrest that precipitated the creation of the NAACP. The State Journal-Register reports that an agreement reached last week between federal, state and city officials covers how excavations will be conducted and directs the city and the Illinois State Museum to curate the artifacts recovered from the remains of the mid-1800s immigrant neighborhood.


 

(Gibson City--ab) One Ford County city is getting scary later this month.  Those in Gibson City will get a little silly, scary and creative on October 23rd for the Annual Gibson City Chamber of Commerce Fright Night. Event spokesperson  Jana Friday provides some details...

 

 

Gibson City Chamber of Commerce Event Spokesperson Jana Friday


 

(Watseka--jc)  City of Watseka workers were dealing with a water main break on the cities east side on Tuesday afternoon. The break caused low water pressure in several areas of the city. Watseka water department workers were looking into the cause of the water main break and assured city residents they were doing everything in their power to get water service back to normal

 

 

(Springfield--ab) More than 50 percent of the Illinois soybean crop has been harvested so far. With nearly five days suitable for fieldwork, soybean harvesting advanced to 51 percent complete says crop statistician Mark Schleusener.

 

 

Corn harvest is well ahead of schedule at 63 percent complete. 54 percent of sorghum has been harvested and 22 percent of winter wheat has been planted. Average statewide topsoil moisture stands at two percent very short, seven percent short, 78 percent adequate and 13 percent surplus.

 

(WASHINGTON) October 9, 2018 – National Corn Growers Association President Lynn Chrisp Tuesday praised an announcement from President Trump, setting the necessary regulatory steps in motion to allow for year-round sales of E-15. Chrisp says Corn farmers across the country have been advocating for year-round sales of higher ethanol blends like E15 to help grow demand, provide consumers with more options at the pump and improve economic conditions across rural America. Chrisp thanked the president for following through on his commitment to America’s farmers.

 

 

(Rantoul--jc)  -- Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce officials invite the business community to is community coffee event this morning at 7-30. Those attending are asked to bring business cards and ideas to network with other area business owners and professionals. Chamber officials say the monthly event is a way to brainstorm ideas and make new business friends.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial minute…

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  --Based on a federal regulation from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Illinois residents will have to obtain a REAL ID card in order to travel in 2020. The REAL ID card will also be needed to visit military air bases and secure federal buildings. Illinois will, however, offer residents the ability to choose between receiving a standard driver’s license or the REAL ID card. No additional cost will be necessary, and the REAL ID will be denoted with a star in the corner.  Secretary of State officials say these are requirements by the federal government to get a REAL ID card, and that’s why they want to offer Illinoisans a choice because not everyone is going to want a REAL ID if you don’t fly.

 

(Springfield--jc )-One political professor says don't read too much into the high price tag of Illinois' race for governor. Candidates vying to be the state's next governor could end up spending $300 million by Nov. 6th .But don't look too much into the spending tea leaves, said professor John Jackson with the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute. Jackson said there's likely not a lasting lesson from the millions that incumbent Bruce Rauner and challenger J.B. Pritzker are spending on this race. Jackson said there's no way to tell how successful the two candidates are with their TV commercial heavy strategy.As of the first of the month, Pritzker donated $146 million to his own campaign. Rauner has kicked-in $50 million of his own money in this race for governor.

 

 

(Springfield--ab) More than 50 percent of the Illinois soybean crop has been harvested so far. Soybean harvest reached 51 percent complete this past week…that’s about on par with last year and a little ahead of the five-year average says crop statistician Mark Schleusener.

 

 

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener Three percent of wheat has emerged. Average statewide topsoil moisture is rated as two percent very short, seven percent short, 78 percent adequate and 13 percent surplus.

7am new

 

(Gibson City--ab)-Gibson City Chamber of Commerce Fright night will take over Gibson City as droves of kids will be in costume for the costume Contest on October 23rd. Fright Night event spokesperson Jana Friday has more on the contest.

 

 

 Fright Night event spokesperson Jana Friday 

 

 

(CIssna Park--jc)  -- A phone scam has been reported in East Central Illinois. The bogus phone call tells the local citizen that their social security number has been suspended The bogus caller then says to call a second number. Local law enforcement officials say do not give out your social security number to any person that calls you.  By the way, social security office already knows your social security number. When in doubt, call the better business bureau or the proper government agency.

 

(Tolono--jc) Some very cool weather is coming to East Central Illinois starting today, but another suspected west nile virus case has occurred in Champaign County, locally. The suspected case comes from the village of Tolono. Local Health officials say the west nile virus remains present usually until the first good frost.

 

(Paxton-dg)-The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce will be having after hours on Thursday  October 18th at the Frederick Community Bank in Paxton. The event takes place from 5:30-7pm. The Frederick Community Bank will also be having an open house that day during business hours. The public is invited to come and sign up for some great prizes they will be giving away.

 

 

(Champaign County--jc)  State police say a two vehicle accident between Sidell and Allerton. A semi and another vehicle crashed. There were injuries. Details remain sketchy. Traffic in the area was stopped for several hours.

 

 

(Rantoul--jc)  -- The Rantoul police department is hosting a lunch fundraiser for a local charity.  Local officers are hosting a pork chop fundraiser at the County Market in Rantoul on Sunday October 14th from 11am until 2pm. The price for the lunch is five dollars. All money raised will go to support the departments “Shop with a Cop” program in December.

 




 
 
 

Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner Vetos Senate Bill That Would Allow Study of Supplemental Deer Feeding

(Springfield--jc)  Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner has vetoed a Senate bill that would have allowed the study of supplemental deer feeding to see if it benefits the animals. Local Illinois State Senator Chapin Rose, a republican from Mahomet, sponsored the bill. He said the study would have looked at ways to fight against diseases, such as Chronic Wasting Disease, that ravaged the deer population. Rose said deer health is crucial for the state’s hunting industry. Rose sponsored the bill at the request of constituents who were concerned about deer herd health. The governor said the scope of the study is too broad, and that the bill needed to spell out how the state Department of Natural Resources would be involved. No word if Rose will try again on the measure this fall or next spring.

 

(Paxton--ab) The Paxton city council  meets Tonight at 7. The items that will be discussed and voted upon are a change to the towns golf cart ordinance, closing streets for the holiday parade, and the pavillion repairs among other topics. WPXN News  will follow and report the results of the meeting.

 

(undated--ba) It’s fire protection week. WPXN's Bradeon Arnett has some safety tips....

 

 

 

(Chicago--jc)  -- The nation’s largest online professional network tracks where in the country workers are moving to and from.Illinois’ largest cities are seeing movement to Chicago, then out of Illinois. LnkedIn’s monthly employment report tracks skill and location changes of more than 150 million workers across the country.  In Chicago, they found hiring has dropped almost five percent since last month. LinkedIn chief economist Guy Berger said the data shows a significant number of workers from Chicago leaving to the cities like Nashville, Tennessee, and Charlotte, North Carolina. The survey showed 10,000 LinkedIn-registered workers in Nashville moved there from Chicago in the last year, much more than any other city.  The report shows Champaign-Urbana as one of the top exporters of workers in the nation, likely because the University of Illinois produces a large number of professionals entering the workforce.

 

PAXTON, Ill. (AP) — An Illinois overpass will be renamed in honor of three men, including two law enforcement officers, who were killed decades ago in a shootout with a Michigan man. State trooper Michael McCarter, Paxton patrolman William Caisse and Donald Vice, who was riding with McCarter, his brother-in-law, died in the April 1979 shooting south of Paxton. The overpass along Interstate 57 where the shooting occurred will be dedicated Oct. 22 as the "McCarter-Caisse-Vice-Hale Memorial Overpass."

 

 

(Urbana--jc)  You may not see a chief impersator at this years University of Illinois parade on Friday night. It is homecoming for the U of I and the Fighting Illini take on the Purdue Boilermakers in the homecoming football game on Saturday afternoon. Last year a “chief”  group walked in the parade, but a scuffle with anti-chief groups forced the chief group to exit the parade. No arrests were made last year. Officials with the University say the annual parade steps off at 6 Friday

night on campus.

 

(Springfield--jc)  --The Illinois Farm Bureau said it is confident a farm bill will be passed after the November midterm elections. If not, it could be a "nightmare scenario."Illinois’ sole congressman on the conference committee working to compromise on a new farm bill says the stricter work requirements for food stamps isn’t the only thing holding up the effort. U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis, Republican from Taylorville, is on the conference committee trying to combine the House and Senate versions of an updated farm bill. While the Illinois Farm Bureau doesn’t take a position and some farmers want a standalone farm bill.

 

(Ashkum--ab) Illinois State Police (ISP) District 21 Commander, Captain Don Aaron Harsy, announces the ISP will conduct Alcohol Countermeasure Enforcement (ACE) patrols in Kankakee County on November 17th . ACE patrols allow the ISP to focus on preventing, detecting, and taking enforcement action in response to violations associated with impaired driving and illegal transportation or consumption of alcohol or drugs. Officers working the detail will be watchful for drivers who are operating vehicles in an unsafe manner, driving with a suspended or revoked driver’s license, transporting open alcoholic beverages, and most importantly:  Driving Under the Influence (DUI); Safety Belt and Child Restraint use; Speeding; Distracted Driving; and, All Illinois Vehicle Code and Criminal Violations

 

 

(Undated--jc)  Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial Minute…

 

 

 

CHICAGO (AP) — Postal workers and their backers are rallying to protest what they say is a White House effort to privatize the U.S. Postal Service. President Donald Trump says the service needs to be restructured to prevent a bailout funded by taxpayers. No final recommendations have been made. In Chicago, workers rallied Monday near a downtown post office. In Washington, American Postal Workers Union President Mark Dimondstein told a crowd that privatization would mean less service and higher costs.

 

(Rantoul--jc)  -- When Rantoul village leaders meet tonight they are expected to appoint Danville Mayor Scott Eisenhower as the new village administrator. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith announced over the weekend to make the current Danville Mayor his selection. With the full board approval, Eisenhower will start the new position in early November. Other agenda items for tonight’s meeting include selling several village owned properties on Pacesetter Drive and Aviation  Drive in Rantoul. Rantoul village leaders are also expected to approve a new school resource officer. The Rantoul Village board meets at 6 tonight at the municipal building on Tanner Street.

 

(Chicago--jc)  Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. The big party is set for December 3rd at the United Center in Chicago. Bicentennial Director Stuart Laybe says it is going to be a memorable event..

 

 

Illinois Bicentennial Event Director Stuart Laybe. Tickets for the event are on sale now.


 

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration is moving to allow year-round sales of gasoline with higher blends of ethanol, a boon for Iowa and other farm states that have pushed for greater sales of the corn-based fuel.President Donald Trump is expected to announce he is lifting a federal ban on summer sales of high-ethanol blends during a trip to Iowa later today.

 

 

(Iroquois County--jc)  Wanted...election judges for several voting precincts in Iroquois County. Iroquois County Clerk Lisa Fancher says Republican and Democrat judges are need for Buckley, Loda, Cissna Park, Onarga and Prairie Green. The fall mid-term election is four weeks from today. Voters in Illinois are going to the polls to elect a governor, Attorney General, State Senators and House representatives.

 

 

(Paxton--jc)  Paxton Buckley Loda school board members are expected to look at its tax levy when they meet tomorrow in Paxton. The tax levy meeting is set for 6 tomorrow night in the boardroom at the unit office in Paxton.,

 

 

(Washington--jc)   Traders will be watching closely this Thursday when USDA comes out with its latest round of crop production estimates and supply and demand forecasts. Gary Crawford reports…

 

 

(Streator--jc)  -- 53rd District State Senator Jason Barickman is hosting the fourth annual Family Farm Fest  from 3 to 6 p.m. on Saturday. The venue is the Barickman family farm south of Streator. Barickman says the public is invited and activities include face-painting, a balloon artist  kid activities, along with food and drinks

 

(Springfield--jc)  --A new survey of Illinois manufacturers shows overwhelming opposition to a possible gas tax hike. Eighty percent of respondents to a survey from the Technology and Manufacturing Association rejected the idea, even if the revenue were earmarked for infrastructure improvement. Steve Rauschenberger, president of the TMA, says  members are frustrated by broken promises. There is a mistrust with legislators in Springfield as recent tax hikes were supposed to solved problems but just cause more problems

 

 

(Melvin-dg)-The Melvin Community Hall will host Michael J. on Saturday October 13th. Michael J. is considered to have one of the smoothest voices and largest vocal ranges in the world. He is known for his comedy and impersonations, especially his tribute to Barney Fife. Admission is $10 for those 13 and older. Doors open at 5:30 with the show to begin at 7pm. The Melvin Women’s Club will be serving sloppy joe sandwiches, chips and pie.


 

(Rantoul--jc)  -- One local chamber is hosting a job and career fair later this week. The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the event on Friday at the Rantoul Business Center. Chamber Executive Director Belynda Allen says there will be lots of great employers from Rantoul , Champaign Urbana , Gibson City and other  communities Those looking for jobs or a new career are invited to attend.

 

Danville Mayor Scott Eisenhauer Chosen as Rantoul's Next Village Administrator

(Rantoul--ab) Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith has selected Danville Mayor Scott Eisenhauer as Rantoul’s next village administrator.The Rantoul Village Board will vote on the selection at tomorrow night’s monthly meeting. Eisenhauer would begin his duties on November 5th. Current Village Administrator Rick Snider, who announced he would be stepping down, has agreed to stay on through the end of October. WPXN news will continue to follow this story on newscasts later this week.

 

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois has earned sole recognition for the strongest mental health parity laws and policies in the country, according to new state report cards released this week.Illinois was the only state with an ‘A’ grade (100/100) on the test of compliance with the Federal Parity Law, which calls for providing coverage of mental health and substance use disorders on par with other illnesses. Tennessee was second in the grading with a ‘C’ (79/100). Thirty-two states received failing grades in the assessment ‘Evaluating State Mental Health and Addiction Parity Statutes’ jointly released by the Kennedy-Satcher Center for Mental Health Equity, The Kennedy Forum, The Carter Center, and Well Being Trust (WBT) Center.

 

 

CHICAGO (AP) — An Illinois Department of Public Health report says medical marijuana use is up more than 80 percent in the state. The Chicago Tribune reports that more than 46,000 people have used medical marijuana in Illinois this year. Almost 75 percent of patients are more than 40 years old. The report says the most common conditions treated are PTSD, fibromyalgia and cancer.

 

(Undated--jc) Friday was National Manufacturing Day in the U.S.  Speaking a rally, Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner says he is committed to cutting taxes and helping with fair trade deals to keep manufacturing a leader in Illinois…

 

 

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner

 

(Central Illinois--jc)  Damage reports are few, but rain and wind were the weather words for parts of East Central Illinois on Sunday. The national weather service said rotation for a possible tornado was found near Fisher on Sunday. Several portions of Ford, McLean, Champaign and Dewitt counties saw significant rainfall over the past 24 hours

 

 

(Champaign County--jc)  Illinois State Police were called to a multiple car accident along Interstate 57 Sunday afternoon. The accidents were in the northbound lanes just north of Olympian Avenue. Traffic was slowed for several hours. No information was given on any injuries, as several vehicles were involved in the accident.

 

 

(Rantoul--jc)  -- The village of Rantoul is offering an amnesty program for those who owe storm drainage fees to the village. The program runs from today through Wednesday. Village officials say anyone that owes an outstanding storm drainage bill qualifies for the program. The bill payer must pay the outstanding balance, but the village will waive the interest and penalties on the account. Those interested in the program can call the village at 892-6832.    

 

(Buckley-dg)-The Village of Buckley will be having golf cart games and a free movie in the park at Buckley Lake Park this Saturday. Registration for the golf cart games begins at 3:30 with a variety of games beginning at 4pm. Entry is $10 per cart. Closing ceremonies will take place around 6:30. Then the free showing of the movie Sandlot will begin at 7pm. Food vendors will be on hand beginning at 4:30.

 

 

(Chicago--jc)  Today is Columbus Day and most schools are closed. Also closed today are banks and county offices. Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner is celebrating the day by attending the annual Columbus Day parade in Chicago. That event steps off in the noon hour today.

 

(Undated--jc)  Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial Minute…

 

 

ROCKFORD, Ill. (AP) — Two Illinois youth football coaches are facing felony charges after police say a fight broke out between coaches and parents following a game and one coach displayed a gun. Forty-three-year-old Terrance Morris and 39-year-old Devorah Clark, both of Indiana, were being held Sunday in the Winnebago County Jail. Police say Morris and Clark are coaches for the Calumet City Thunderbolts. The team played the Rockford Renegades Saturday afternoon in Rockford.

 

YORKVILLE, Ill. (AP) — An Illinois man released on parole after spending decades in prison for murdering five people remains in prison as he awaits a viable housing option. The Beacon-News reports that 77-year-old Carl Reimann was granted parole in April. He's been back at the Dixon Correctional Center since May after being removed from two housing arrangements.

 

CHICAGO (AP) — Former U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock's public corruption trial is now scheduled for June in federal court in Chicago. The Chicago Tribune reports the former Illinois Republican congressman will stand trial June 10. Schock was once a rising star in Congress. He's now accused of using campaign money and his congressional allotment for personal expenses. He resigned amid scrutiny of lavish spending, including a "Downton Abbey"-style redecorating of his Capitol Hill office.

 

SWANSEA, Ill. (AP) — Illinois conservation police have seized a pet bobcat from a family in Swansea. Lakesha Mayweather tells the Belleville News-Democrat reports that she received a permit to own a captive bobcat and that state officials renewed it. She paid $1,800 to a Missouri breeder for the declawed and neutered cat she calls Capone. But IDNR seized the animal last month and ticketed Mayweather for unlawful possession of a dangerous animal and unlawful import of a dangerous species.

 

 

(Rantouil--jc)  Rantoul firefighters were called to a home fire along Fairview Avenue in the village. Authorities believe that the home caught fire due to an electrical short. No word on the amount of damage was given. No one was hurt in the blaze

 

(Champaign--jc)  -- Rain over the weekend and harvest progress, remains a concern for area farmers. Area farmers have brought in a large portion of the corn and soybean crops over the past week. As far as rain and temperatures, State Climatologist Jim Angel with the Illinois Water Survey in Champaign says above rainfall is expected and the temperatures will be more autumn like…

 

State Climatologist Jim Angel with the Illinois Water Survey in Champaign.

 

(Rantoul--jc)  A Rantoul man was found safe after local police were seeking information about his whereabouts. Rantoul police say 25 year old  Melvin Fox was located around 9 on Saturday night. Fox has autism and is non-verbal. Rantoul police thank those who helped with the search.

 

 

(Danville-dg)-On Sunday October 14th, you can relive the past in form of political participation at the Truman Whistle Stop 1948 in Danville. This is an interactive all-ages reenactment complete with 1940s cars, posters, buttons, music, food, a replica Ferdinand Magellan train car, and, of course, Harry S. Truman. And then join in for a conversation with the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum archivist Sam Rushay and local historian Tim Smith about the political history of Danville and its significance in the 1948 campaign. This free event is being produced by the Vermilion County Museum and Illinois Humanities as part of the celebration of the Illinois Bicentennial.

 

 

URBANA, Ill. (AP) — The University of Illinois is dedicating a garden to a 26-year-old Chinese scholar who authorities say was kidnapped near campus and killed last year. Yingying Zhang disappeared June 9, 2017, after she arrived at the university in central Illinois. Former graduate student Brendt Christensen has been charged with her abduction and death. Authorities have not found her body. University officials say they'll hold a dedication ceremony Thursday for the Yingying Zhang Garden. The garden is located in Urbana, close to the last place she was seen on surveillance video getting into a vehicle. Authorities say she told friends she was on her way to sign an apartment lease. University officials are inviting students, faculty, staff and the public to the 2 p.m. dedication ceremony.

 

 

(Washington--jc) --  The cooler weather is on its way later this week. That means

Fireplaces and firewood. Nature Conservancy’s Forest Health Director Leigh Greenwood is urging people who want to gather and use firewood locally to make sure to follow the rules…

 

 

Nature Conservancy’s Forest Health Director Leigh Greenwood.

 

PEORIA, Ill. (AP) — The mother of a 4-year-old boy who died in a house fire has sued a central Illinois village, arguing its fire department's response was inadequate. The lawsuit filed against Bartonville claims its volunteer firefighters took 12 minutes to arrive at the burning house on July 17 and didn't seek immediate help from a Peoria fire station that's about five minutes away. Bartonville's mayor declined to comment.

 

 

URBANA, Ill. (AP) — The University of Illinois is banning all smokeless tobacco products from its main campus in Urbana-Champaign. University officials say the campus no-smoking policy will be extended to products such as chewing tobacco and dissolvable tobacco strips starting next August. The tobacco ban will apply to students, employees and campus visitors, including fans at sporting events. It will cover all university-owned property, indoors and outdoors.

 

(Paxton--ab) Paxton Buckley Loda High School parent teacher conferences are October 24th and October 25th. Contact Kim Goble in the high school office at 217-379-4331 to schedule those appointments with high school teachers.

 

(Springfield--ab) The Illinois Department of Revenue is launching a new, more user-friendly website. Revenue spokesperson Terry Horstman says the revamped site is mobile friendly and easier to navigate.

 

 

Illinois Department of Revenue Spokesperson Terry Horstman

The website is: tax dot illinois dot gov

 

CHICAGO (AP) — Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky was among more than 50 people were cited by police at a Chicago protest calling for higher wages and union rights for fast food workers. The protest by the Illinois Democrat and the others took place Thursday outside fast-food giant McDonald's corporate headquarters. The demonstration is part of the "Fight for $15," a national movement seeking to increase the minimum wage to $15 an hour for fast food, child care, airlines and other workers. The group also wants the right to start unions or join existing ones.

 

(Askum--ab) Illinois State Police (ISP) District 21 Commander, Captain Don Aaron Harsy, announces the ISP will conduct Special Traffic Enforcement Patrols in Kankakee, Iroquois and Ford Counties on November 10, 16, 20, 23, 24 & 25. These STEPs allow the ISP to focus on these fatal four violations which contribute the greatest to traffic crashes and fatalities: Driving Under the Influence (DUI); - Safety Belt and Child Restraint use; Speeding; and Distracted Driving.

 

(Watseka--jc)  Riverside Healthcare in Kankakee and Iroquois Memorial Hospital are discussing merger. The two area hospital has signed a letter of intent to pursue the merger. The process has just started. WPXN news will continue to update this story as it develops.

 

 

(Fisher--jc)  --The Village of Fisher Planning and zoning commission is set to meet next week to discuss special use permits for the construction of community solar gardens. The gardens would be built on the Stalter property just south of Green Street in the village. A public hearing on the issue preceeds the commissions meeting on Wednesday. Officials will also look at rezoning a property in the 400 block of West Division Street from commercial to family residential. The Fisher Planning and Zoning Commission meeting comes to order at 6pm Wednesday October 10th.

 

 

SPRINGFIELD — Recognizing the importance of an industry that employs more than a half million workers in the state, Gov. Bruce Rauner today proclaimed October Manufacturing Month in Illinois.  The governor says manufacturing is at the heart of the Illinois economy. Manufacturing Month events will take place throughout October in Illinois. These events showcase some of the nearly 13,000 manufacturing firms that call Illinois home. October is a time to highlight the benefits of working in the industry and continue to build a talent pipeline that guarantees Illinois remains a leader in manufacturing for years to come. Manufacturing Day will be celebrated nationwide today.

 

(Undated--jc)  -- Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial Minute…

 

 

 A taxpayer-funded nursing home in one of the nation’s highest-taxing counties has amassed tens of millions of dollars in reserves and local officials are now looking to send part of that back to taxpayers.The Valley Hi Nursing Home in McHenry County is actually a taxing district, taking about $40 annually from each property taxpayer there. Not counting federal money it gets for care, the facility has amassed reserves of more than $40 million, enough to run operations for four years.McHenry County, in northern Illinois, has had an annual property tax burden as high as four percent of a home's value, most recently 2.82 percent in 2017, according to ATTOM Data Solutions. That's higher than others around it and among the highest as a ratio of home values in the nation.

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- The state owes 24,000 state employees millions of dollars in backpay for failing to pay raises, but Gov. Bruce Rauner's administration is pushing to the limit how much it will have to pay amid a contract dispute with the state's largest public-sector union. The Rauner administration says whether taxpayers are on the hook for more than $400 million to state employees in raises from a contract that expired more than three years ago depends on the ultimate outcome of whether there’s an impasse.The Illinois Labor Relations Board ordered the Rauner administration to issue reports on paying step increases for 24,000 state employees by the first of this month. The raises are based off a contract that expired June 2015, shortly after Rauner took office.

 

(Rantoul--jc)  -- The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce  is now opening up the nomination process for our annual awards which will be given out at the R-A-C-C Annual Banquet on November 9th. To receive a nomination form for Citizen of the Year , Volunteer of the Year or Educator of the Year please email d-i-r- at-rantoulchamber-dot-.com  Nomination forms must be received by October 31 by either emailing , mail to : RACC 120 E. Sangamon, Rantoul 61866 or dropping off at the RACC office.

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Four central Illinois residents have been charged in connection with the death of a man last month inside a Springfield hotel. Fifty-three-year-old Michael Trone of Springfield was found dead Sept. 6 in a Sleep Inn after police received a report of unresponsive man in a hotel room. An autopsy later determined Trone was strangled. Sangamon County State's Attorney John Milhiser said Thursday the suspects face first-degree murder and robbery charges.

 

(Buckley--jc)  -- Crusader Hall at Buckley based Christ Lutheran High School is the setting for a meeting later this month for Buckley residents. The purpose of the meeting is a public information meeting about the towns proposed sewer system project. The meeting comes to order at 5 on Thursday October 18.

 

(Washington--jc)  -- Over 80 food and beverage items have been added to a U-S-D-A app designed to help consumers Rod Bain has the story…

 

 

(Rantoul--jc)  The move to a new location for one local auto dealership could be complete by Spring 2019,  Shields AutoMart of Rantoul will be making the move to property just of Route 136 near the Rantoul Super Walmart Store on the villages west side.  The local dealer is putting up a new 27 thousand 800 foot facility. Those driving by the site will see the start of ground prep work for the new building. Weather will determine when the facility will be ready in Spring of 2019.

 

 

 

(Chicago--jc) --  Illinois officially celebrates its 200th anniversary with a Bicentennial gala at the United Center on December 3rd. Bicentennial celebration official Tim Kazurinsky says a huge party is planned for December 3rd in Chicago…

 

 

Bicentennial Celebration official Tim Kazurinsky

Tickets are available to the public.

 

The Immanuel Lutheran Church in Loda is holding a homemade goodies sale and garage sale from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday  113 Iroquois Trail at Lake Iroquois. Proceeds from the sale will go to the Ladies speical projects, including Christ Lutheran High School’s student education fund, a church sponsored St. Louis Seminary student fund. Garage sales are taking place today and tomorrow around Lake Iroquois

 

The Paxton IGA is hosting a cookout from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday in the stores parking lot. Funds are being raised for Missions Are Us. It’s pork chop sandwiches, chips and pop on the menu

 

A local Fire Department is having one of its fundraisers this Sunday. The Cissna Park Fire Protection District is having it’s Annual Fried Chicken Dinner  Sunday from 11am-5pm. Please come out to show your support.

 

 

 

Governor Bruce Rauner Says the State is Attacking the Opioid Epidemic in Illinois From Several Angles

(Springfield--ab) Governor Bruce Rauner says the state is attacking the opioid epidemic in Illinois from several angles. Walgreens has 83 kiosks around Illinois where people can drop off unused medication. that will save lives says Governor Rauner.

 

 

Governor Bruce Rauner

Additionally, the state has received federal medicaid funding to improve mental health and behavioral care in Illinois…and the state has a 24 hour addiction helpline at 833-2-findhelp. Patients also can now be prescribed medical marijuana for pain instead of addictive opioids.

 

 

(Washington--jc)  -- October is National Pork Month. Pork prices are lower at the grocery store. Gary Crawford has the details…

 

 

(Roberts--ab) Halloween planning is starting to get underway for area residents. The village of Roberts at their recent board meeting discussed what time trick or treating hours will be, and Village mayor Rick Flessner has the results of those discussions.

 

 

Village of Roberts Mayor Rick Flessner

 

(Rantoul--jc)  When Rantoul Township High School board members meet on Monday they are expected to approve a study hall incentive program. The board will also hear a P.E Team presentation, and look at a VISA account. The Rantoul High School board meets at 7 on Monday night at the high school



 

(Central and Southern Illinois Region, October 3 2018) — The American Red Cross is recognizing McDonald’s in Bloomington/Normal, Lincoln, LeRoy, Mahomet, Monticello, Clinton, McLean and Gibson City Illinois as they are raising funds to support disaster relief operations by generating donations on Thursday October 4th to help provide around-the-clock shelter, food and comfort to people impacted by Disasters such as Hurricane Florence. On October 5th, McDonalds in these locations will have canisters to collected donations to support Disaster Relief efforts. This funding helps enable the Red Cross to send disaster workers to the affected areas to help shelter, feed and comfort people who are impacted by disasters.

 

 

DETROIT (AP) — A judge has cleared the way for possibly thousands of people to be paid for work performed while they were students at a chain of cosmetology schools in Michigan and two other states. Federal Judge Judith Levy ruled Monday that students who cleaned floors, restocked products and washed towels were performing tasks that weren't directly related to their education at Douglas J Aveda Institute. The judge says they can be considered employees. The school also has locations in Chicago and Tennessee.

 

(Cissna Park--ab) The Cissna Park Fire Protection District will have their annual Chicken Fry this upcoming Sunday on the 7th from 11 AM to 5 PM. Here is the details from Cissna Park Fire Department Chicken Fry spokesperson Ed Dubrick.

 

Cissna Park Fire Department Chicken Fry spokesperson Ed Dubrick


 

QUINCY, Ill. (AP) — Authorities say two nursing home residents and two employees were killed when the bus they were riding slammed head-on into a grain truck in western Illinois. Illinois State Police say the 15-passenger bus caught fire after the crash Tuesday afternoon on U.S. 24 near Quincy and that all four people on board died. Those killed lived or worked at Timber Point Healthcare Center in nearby Camp Point, Illinois.

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- A member of the Illinois Legislative Audit Commission is looking to get the state’s Auditor General to review the operations of the private foundation that supports the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield.State lawmakers also are considering whether other such entities need similar examination.The ALPLM Foundation has come under scrutiny after a report revealed the private group for years held back official documents calling into question the claim a stovepipe hat the library holds was worn by the slain 16th President.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  -- Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial Minute… 

 

 

CHICAGO (AP) — Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner has attacked Democrat J.B. Pritzker as a "trust fund baby" and a tax cheat as the GOP incumbent fights a tough battle for a second term. Rauner and Pritzker met Wednesday for their first two-way debate of the Illinois governor's race.

 

( Urbana--jc)  -- Champaign County Coroner Duane Northrup is releasing the name of a Sidney, Illinois woman who has died after being involved in a motor vehicle versus freight train collision on Homer Lake Rd. south of St. Joseph Wednesday night. Eighteen-year-old Savannah J. Day was pronounced dead at the scene at 6:40 PM last night.  Ms. Day was driving a vehicle westbound on Homer Lake Road near County Road 2300 East when her vehicle struck the train. An autopsy is scheduled for today. An inquest may be held at a later date. This death is being investigated by the Champaign County Coroner’s Office and Champaign County Sheriffs office.

 

(Washington--jc)  --- The fall harvest is moving quickly in East Central Illinois. Farmers continue to bring in a large soybean and corn crop overall. U-S-D-A Meteorologist, Brad Rippey has the latest on  topsoil moisture conditions around the country…

 

 

U-S-D-A Meteorologist Brad Rippey.

 

 

(Chicago--jc)  --Voter confidence in state lawmakers to fix Illinois’ fiscal problems is low and the willingness for taxpayers to leave the state is high. AARP of Illinois says that’s a recipe for disaster.Illinois’ credit rating is near junk. The backlog of bills is more than $7 billion. The state’s unfunded public sector pension liability is at least $130 billion. Add in promised other post-employment benefits and that number skyrockets to over $200 billion.After a two-and-a-half year budget impasse where required spending was on autopilot, growing the state’s deficits, lawmakers imposed a $5 billion income tax hike and the state still continued deficit spending. The budget passed this year is admittedly more than $1 billion out of balance and it included last year's $5 billion income tax increase.

 

(Chicago--jc) --  A wage fight for fast-food workers is set for Chicago among other areas today. Mary Ann Schuermann reports…

 

 

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan's office has opened an investigation into the handling of a Legionnaire's disease crisis at a state-run veterans' home by Gov. Bruce Rauner's administration. The Democrat's spokeswoman said Wednesday that authorities will review whether laws were broken and whether public notice was timely. A Rauner spokeswoman says the administration has not hidden information from residents' families, lawmakers or taxpayers.

 

(Paxton--jc)  Officials with the city of Paxton will dedicate the overpass in Paxton to honor the officers and residents  involved in a shooting on April 7, 1979. State leaders passed a resolution to name the over pass along Route 9 in Paxton The McCarter Case Vice Hale Memorial Overpass. The event takes place at 10am on October 22nd at the Paxton Firehouse. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold and other local leaders are expected to attend the event. Survivors and family members of those involved in the nearly 40 year old shoot out are also expected at the dedication ceremony.

 

(Potomac--jc)  -- One local service group is hosting a fundraiser on Saturday. Potomac based Hooves of Hope has the rodeo round up set for Noon until 8-30 on Saturday at the Hooves of Hope building along Route 136 in Potomac. A kids’ rodeo, jail and bail. The Marvin Lee Band, horse barrel racing also hilite the event.

 

(Champaign--jc)  -- What a difference a day makes. Wednesday’s high temperature was 90 degrees. Today’s high temperature may have already occurred just past midnight this morning. State Climatologist Jim Angel with the Illinois Water Survey in Champaign says the first frost of the year usually comes soon…

 

 

State Climatologist Jim Angel with the Illinois Water Survey in Champaign

 

The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce will have its Business After Hours today at Abbe Insurance Agency in Buckley. The event takes place from 5:30-7pm. Drinks and hors d’oeuvres will be provided for those attending.  

 

 

(Paxton--jc) --  One local Paxton business is set to celebrate 10 years in Business one week from today. Simply Pat’s Hats is located in the state street mall in Paxton. Owner Pat Milchuck is hosting a program and celebration at the Paxton Carnegie Library in downtown Paxton starting at 6-30 next Thursday night. Pat’ hats have been sold and worn to the Kentucky Derby, car shows and other events. Pat’s hats are all one of a kind.

 

Pritzker to Pay Back $330,000 in Taxes to Cook County

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The Democratic nominee for Illinois governor will repay the Cook County treasurer more than $330,000 worth of property-tax breaks he received in what an investigator called a "scheme to defraud" taxpayers. The Chicago Tribune reported Tuesday that campaign officials for J.B. Pritzker say the billionaire will repay the county by the end of next week. An investigator alleges that Pritzker family members and an associate misrepresented the condition of a family mansion for tax reductions.

 

 

(Roberts--ab) The Village of Roberts signed a resolution for adding a zoning perimeter of 1.5 miles to regulate the construction of Wind Farms. Village of Roberts mayor Rick Flessner said the town of Roberts wants some safegaurds from Ford County

 

Village of Roberts Mayor Rick Flessner

 

 

BELLEVILLE, Ill. (AP) — The Air Force is reprimanding a former commander at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois as part of a plea agreement over sexual misconduct accusations against him. The agreement comes after Col. John Howard was removed in December as commander of the 375th Air Mobility Wing. The reprimand states Howard sought a sexual relationship with a "very junior" female enlisted airman while serving in the United Kingdom in 2016-17.

 

 

NEW YORK (AP) — Amazon, which has faced political and economic pressure to raise pay for thousands of employees, is boosting its minimum wage for all U.S. workers to $15 per hour starting next month and said it will push for an increase in the federally mandated minimum wage, which now stands at $7.25 per hour.

The wage hike will go into effect as Amazon hires more than 100,000 holiday workers to pack and ship goods in its warehouses. Employers are facing the tightest job market in nearly two decades, making it more difficult to lure workers who have a lot more choices about taking a job than just a year ago. Amazon is building a shipping warehouse in Champaign, locally.

Champaign--jc)  -- Last month was the 12 warmest September on record in Illinois. The average temperature in September was 70 degrees. That’s nearly 4 degrees above normal says State Climatologist Jim Angel…

 

 

State Climatologist Jim Angel

As for October, Angel says we can look for above average temperatures and above average rainfall.

 

(Undated--jc)  -- A poisonous weed that prompted President Abe Lincoln's family to move to Illinois is putting livestock here at risk. Abe Lincoln’s mother was killed by milk from a cow that had eaten a poisonous plant. His family relocated to Illinois from Indiana for their safety.The dry, hot summer has created the perfect conditions for it to threaten livestock here in the Land of Lincoln.The white snakeroot was responsible for poisoning the milk that killed Nancy Hanks Lincoln, Abe’s mother, and many others in Indiana during the early 1800s when he was 9 years old.The active poison in the slender, white-flowered weed is fat soluble, meaning it will find its way into a lactating cow’s milk and poison a calf or person if they ingest enough.


 

(Central Illinois --jc)  -- Plaintiffs in a Central Illinois lawsuit to get non profit hospitals to pay property taxes say they’ll move forward with their case in light of a similar Supreme Court ruling.The Illinois Supreme Court upheld that a nonprofit hospital is still exempt from property taxes if the value of the free services it provides is greater than its annual bill from all the units of government that levy taxes on the property. In the majority opinion in the case, Oswald v. Hamer, the justices said the plaintiff, Constance Oswald failed to prove that the tax exemption for nonprofit hospitals was unconstitutional.Lawyer Mark Deaton with the Illinois Health and Hospital Association said communities will continue to receive the “benefit of the bargain,” offering tax exemption in exchange for their services.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  -- Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial Minute…

 

 

(Springfield--jc)-- The new Illinois  State police memorial park was dedicated Tuesday in downtown Springfield. The park has been years in the making and pays tribute to troopers killed in the line of duty. That includes sergeant Erin Hehl who was killed in a helicopter crash in 1997. Her husband Bob spoke at the ceremony on Tuesday…

 

 

Bob Hehl Husband of Fallen Trooper Erin Hehl

The park features a black granite memorial wall etched with the names of fallen troopers.

 

(Springfield--jc)  --Illinois is among the easiest states in the country in which to cast a ballot, according to a new study. The report, titled “Cost of Voting In American States,” created a “Cost of Voting Index” after examining 33 different factors, focusing on laws regarding registering to vote and actually casting a ballot. Differences in registration deadlines carried the most weight. Illinois finished twelfth among the 50 states thanks to a couple of recent laws. One was the early voting laws that have come into place and another is  same-day voter registration. The fall election is Tuesday November 6th.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  -- Few Illinois cities growing, according to a new analysis of the the nation's towns, which found Decatur to be the slowest-growing city in the United States. Consumer finance research website WalletHub put Decatur at the bottom. And a state lawmaker says it’s time to act. Of the 515 cities in the WalletHub 2018 Fastest-Growing Cities in America report, no Illinois city is above No. 343, where Champaign landed. Decatur was rock bottom at No. 515. Springfield wasn’t far behind at 507, the seventh slowest growing city.

 

(Rantoul--jc)  No new Village Administrator for Rantoul yet. Rantoul Village leaders learned that their candidate for the position wants some changes in the contract. The board met in their monthly study session last night and also met in executive session to discuss the hiring. The board is expected to make a decision on the Village Administrator position and move forward with an offer to their candidate over the next week.

 

 

(Roberts--ab) The Village of Roberts signed a resolution for adding a zoning perimeter of 1.5 miles to regulate the construction of Wind Farms. Village of Roberts mayor Rick Flessner has more.

 

Village of Roberts Mayor Rick Flessner

 

(Chicago--jc)  --Illinois’ manufacturing and farming communities are excited about the new trilateral trade agreement President Donald Trump announced between the U.S, Mexico and Canada. But the Illinois Manufacturing Association’s Mark Denzler says  Illinois must address its poor business climate. The consensus of farmers is that the U.S. must continue making deals with other countries in the face of a trade war with China. The new deal was struck between the U. S. and its neighbors this week. Denzler adds that the deal between the three countries is also good news for chemical, pharmaceutical and food manufacturers.

 

 

(Washington--jc)  -- Corn crop progress is proceeding ahead of average. Stephanie Ho has the numbers…

 

 

 

(Undated--jc)  -- The American Red Cross Central and Southern Illinois Region will offer a special Disaster Volunteer Boot Camp event in Champaign this week. The three day camp starts on Friday and runs through Sunday. The Disaster volunteer boot camp is a unique opportunity for people who would like to fast track in becoming a Red Cross disaster volunteer. Those interested may contact the Red Cross office in Bloomington. The Red Cross is set to host additional volunteer boot camps in Quincy, Peoria and Mt Vernon over the next month.

 

(Paxton--jc)  The Ford County Sheriff’s office received nearly 30 thousand dollars in boarding inmates income during September. In the monthly report released on Tuesday, the local sheriff’s department handed out 39 speeding tickets along with 39 other traffic violations and 44 warnings. To date, the Ford County Sheriff’s Department has received just over 454 thousand dollars in services and fees.

 

 

(Carlinville--jc)  -- Want to learn more about Route 66. Officials with the

Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau is hosting  the 4th Annual Miles of Possibility Route 66 Conference in Carlinville from October 25 through the 28th. Speakers, banquets and bands also highlight the event. More information is found on-line with the Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau.

U.S. Supreme Court Refuses Former Police SGT. Drew Peterson a New Trial

CHICAGO (AP) — The U.S. Supreme court has refused to grant former suburban Chicago police Sgt. Drew Peterson a new trial, dealing another blow to his efforts to have his murder conviction in the 2004 drowning death of his third wife overturned. The decision announced Monday follows two rulings by the Illinois Supreme Court to reject Peterson's appeal of his 2012 conviction in the death of Kathleen Savio.

 

(Washington--jc)  --The federal Farm Bill expired at midnight on Sunday. Illinois’ only representative in the negotiations says Senate Democrats are to blame for not getting a new one to the President Donald Trump’s desk. Illinois Congressman Rodney Davis is part of the conference committee tasked with negotiating a final Farm Bill to pass both chambers and send to the president. The previous one expired at midnight Sunday. This leaves a number of programs without funding. The U.S. House passed a new Farm Bill that included tougher work requirements for recipients of SNAP benefits, otherwise known as food stamps. Trump supports the tougher work requirements. The Senate's version of the bill did not include the work requirements, and lawmakers from both chambers to date have been unable to come up with a compromise measure

 

(Melvin--jc)  In updating our story from Monday morning, an early morning fire in a newly built shed on the Robert Miller farm caused 400 thousand dollars in damage. Firefighters from Melvin, Gibson City, Elliott and Roberts were on the scene of the blaze. The metal shed, a combine and other contents were destroyed. Around 30 loca firefighters helped at the scene.

 

 

(Chicago--jc)  -- Expect some wheeling and dealing in the Illinois House from Democrats working to get votes to override the governor’s vetoes of dozens of bills. After the November midterm elections, the current batch of state lawmakers will head back to Springfield for veto session. They could consider 78 bills the governor vetoed or changed so far this calendar year. Each bill’s chief sponsor would have to motion for an override in the chamber the bill originated. State Rep. Kelly Cassidy, D-Chicago, said that’s a lot of bills for sponsors to consider for override attempts.  Forty-five of them passed both the House and Senate with supermajorities. Cassidy doesn’t expect many to be contentious.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  The states top fire officials has several tips to make a fire-free-fall. WPXN’s Braedon Arnett has the story…

 

(Hoopeston-jc)  - The McDonald’s restaurants in Vermilion County are assisting the County’s Victim Assistance Program by hosting a supply drive for Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The drive takes place starting Thursday and running through October 14th. The drive will collect items needed by the Crosspoint Human Services’ Domestic Violence and Transitional Shelter. Items needed include include towels and washcloths, toddler-size diapers, journals for adults and children, laundry baskets and detergent. Also, twin size mattress pads, body wash, grocery cards of $25 or less, nonperishable food items, cleaning supplies and children’s craft supplies. Stop by any Vermilion County McDonald’s to make a donation. Additional information is found in Hoopeston’s, Just the Facts.

 

 

(Springfield--jc) --  Corn harvesting is about halfway done as we hear in the weekly crop report. Last week, farmers had over 5 days suitable for fieldwork says State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener…

 

 

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener.

35 percent of soybeans have been harvested and 80 percent of soybeans are rated in good to excellent condition.

 

 

SPRINGFIELD — Recognizing the importance of an industry that employs more than a half million workers in the state, Governor Bruce Rauner Monday proclaimed October Manufacturing Month in Illinois. Governor Rauner says manufacturing is at the heart of the Illinois economy and for decades, Illinois manufacturers have shown their savvy by adapting to changing market conditions and embracing innovation to stay at the top of their game. Illinois companies manufacture a wide range of products including farm equipment and machinery, automotive parts, plastics, pharmaceuticals, biofuels and food products.

 

 

(Washington--jc)  -- Pork exports are doing fine despite the tariffs. Gary Crawford reports…

 

 

 

(Undated--jc)  Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial Minute…

 

 

 

WASHINGTON (October 1, 2018) -- The National Corn Growers Association President Lynn Chrisp says  farmers across the country have been closely following NAFTA negotiations and reminding the administration of its promise to ‘do no harm’ to agriculture. Chrisp says the national corn growers association applauds federal leaders  for reaching a new agreement and look forward to seeing how a new agreement benefits American corn growers. Last year the United States exported $3.2 billion of corn and corn products to Mexico and Canada, supporting 25,000 rural jobs. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce estimates that trade with Canada and Mexico supports 14 million U.S. jobs across many sectors. 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- The Illinois State Police, Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation Board Members, representatives from the Illinois Senate and House of Representatives, and other distinguished guests will participate in a Dedication ceremony for the Illinois State Police Memorial Park. The Springfield  Park will serve as a location to pay tribute to the bravery and courage of fallen Illinois State Troopers. The ceremony begins at 11 this morning.

 

 

SPRINGFIELD, ILL. – Harvest is in the air, leaves are starting to turn, and this month is National Pork Month. October was traditionally when hogs were marketed. Today, it serves as a celebration to thank pork producers and share their stories with consumers. Celebrate by eating extra pork this month to support our local pig farmers. Illinois Pork Producers President Mike Haag  says if you eat, you have a connection to a farmer, Haag says October Pork Month is an opportunity to refresh the connection consumers have with farmers. The Pork producers mission is to produce safe, nutritious food in a responsible manner for families across the United States and around the world. Pork provides nutritional qualities, including amino acids, vitamins and protein.

 

(Rantoul--jc)  Rantoul Village leaders are expected to name their new Village Administrator tonight. The choice are between Danville Mayor Scott Eisenhower and East Peoria’s Jeff Eder. Current Village Administrator Rick Snider resigned earlier this year, but has stayed on in the post until a new person takes over. The Rantoul Village Board meets at 6 tonight in the municipal building on Tanner Street.

 

(Paxton--jc)  October is here and farmers continue to harvest the corn and soybeans.  Farmers may be looking at a farm insurance payout with federal crop insurance due to lower prices says Abbe Insurance, Diversified Insurance Agent Larry Abbe…

 

 

Abbe  Insurance of Buckley and Diversified Insurance Agent Larry Abbe.

CARMEL, Indiana – Merchants Bancorp based in, Carmel Indiana and its subsidiary, Joy State Bank, an Illinois chartered bank located in Joy Illinois announced Monday it has closed on its acquisition of F-M Bancorp Incorporated, based in Paxton. Chairman of Merchants Bancorp Michael Petrie says closing this transaction adds to their growing presence in Illinoi sand represents another milestone that support their vision  of sustainable growth in markets in the state. The acquisition of Farmers-Merchants adds 112 million dollars in assets to Merchants Bancorp. The bank in Paxton and Joy Illinois will be called the Farmers-Merchants Bank of Illinois.

 

 

(Springfield--ab)Michael Jordan leads the list of top 10 Illinois Athletes in the latest bicentennial celebration poll. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Spokesperson Chris Wills says it should come as no surprise that Jordan came in at number one.Tthe five time M-V-P led the Chicago Bulls to Six Championships.

 

Others making the top 10 include Chicago Cubs great Ernie Banks and Olympians Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Bonnie Blair. Vote now in the next category...groundbreaking women at: illinois top 200 dot com.

 

(Springfield--jc)  Illinois has been warned by federal authorities that the state has significantly over-issued federal food assistance to individuals who didn't qualify and may face a large fine as a resultA letter issuing the warning was sent from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to the Illinois Department of Human Services Secretary James Dimas earlier this month. USDA officials found that Illinois has a number of problems with its issuance of federal food assistance to a “significant portion of the SNAP caseload” and the issue may be what they called “systemic.” The feds say the state ignored reporting requirements for a number of cases, even suspending the requirements for all households due to report in January and February. As as result, the USDA found that Illinois issued food stamps to a significant number of people from November through February, even though they didn't qualify under federal law.

 

(Springfield--jc)  Corn harvesting is 50 percent complete in the state. State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener says soybean harvest is also moving along quickly…

 


State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener.

Schleusener sas wheat planting is 8 percent complete. Topsoil moisture is 3 percent very short, 15 percent short, 75 percent adequate and 7 percent surplus.

 

 

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — The Parkland College Dental Hygiene Clinic is currently seeking to serve area residents who have not had dental cleanings in five years or more. Patients may come in for various dental services, such as oral examination, X-rays, cleaning, fluoride treatment, sealants, and oral hygiene instruction.Appointments last approximately 3.5 hours, as the Dental Hygiene program students are learning and are working with their instructors. The cleaning may take one to four appointments, depending on the patient's individual needs. More information is found by calling the college.

 

Parkland College's Precision Agriculture Program Named No. 2 Among Nation's Community Colleges by PrecisionAg.com

 

(Chicago--jc)  -- Attorney General Lisa Madigan joined a bipartisan coalition of 16 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief in a lawsuit challenging states’ ability to regulate student loan servicers and protect student loan borrowers from abuse. Madigan and the other attorneys general filed the amicus brief in the lawsuit filed by the Student Loan Servicing Alliance against the District of Columbia to prevent the enforcement of a D.C. law that regulates student loan servicers, which are the companies that process loan payments. The lawsuit asserts that D.C.’s law is preempted by federal law. The amicus brief explains that the U.S. Department of Education has abdicated its role in regulating student loan servicers and has recently turned a blind eye to servicer misconduct, resulting in widespread abuses of vulnerable borrowers. The coalition’s brief also explains that preventing states from regulating loan servicers would lead to dramatically more loan servicer misconduct and more harm to borrowers.

 

 

CHAMPAIGN — Parkland College's Precision Agriculture program has been named No. 2 among the nation's community colleges by PrecisionAg.com.

Earlier in the year, PrecisionAg.com released its Top 25 Colleges in the U.S. for Precision Agriculture, which comprised four-year institutions; it released its Top 20 Two-Year Colleges list in early September, with Parkland's program ranking second on the list.Parkland College offers the most comprehensive Precision Agriculture associate’s degree in the state of Illinois.

 

(Paxton--ab) Harvest is rolling on and be prepared for mixed results ays Ludlow Coop Market Analyst Paul Seaman

 

 

Ludlow Coop Market Analyst Paul Seaman

 

 

( Springfield--jc)  -- Illinois is below the middle of the pack when it comes to state business tax climate and a nonpartisan group says if the state were to change its flat income tax to a progressive one, it’s ranking would go down even further.The nonpartisan Tax Foundation’s 2019 State Business Tax Climate Index puts Illinois at No. 36. That’s down from last year’s ranking of No. 33. Among Illinois’ neighbors, only Iowa had a lower overall rank of 45.Tax Foundation's Nicole Kaeding said Illinois is ranked 13th for its flat income tax, but its high property tax (No. 45), corporate tax (No. 39) and unemployment insurance tax (No. 42) brings the state down for the overall index.

 

 

(Paxton--jc)  -- Apex Clean Energy is a company that is proposing an extension of the Ford Ridge Wind Farm in the Gibson City and Sibley areas of the county. At issue is setbacks for the windmills. Several county committees have held public comment meetings. The next one in the process is on Wednesday night, 7pm, at the courthouse in Paxton. That meeting is for the Ford County Zoning Board of Appeals.  Apex Clean Energy is looking to work with the county on setbacks and other issues, while some opposition comes with a proposed 22 hundred 50 feet in setbacks on rural properties. Apex officials have said that if the longer setbacks are approved, it would hamper windmill expansion in Ford County. The full Ford County Board could take up the issue when then meet on October 8th.

 

(Lake Iroquois--jc)  -- One local church is hosting a bake sale and garage sale this Friday and Saturday to benefit a local Christian High School. Those with Immanuel Lutheran Church in Loda is participating  with the Lake Iroquois

Garage sales on Friday and Saturday. The money raised goes to Christ Lutheran’s student education fun and St Louis Seminary student fund. The sale take place at the Alan and Nancy Johnson home at Lake Iroquois.

 

 

(Washington--jc)  -- The U.S. and Japan have agreed to begin trade negotiations. Gary Crawford reports…

 

 

 

CARBONDALE, Ill. (AP) — An official at Southern Illinois University says a student accused earlier this month of belonging to a white supremacist neo-Nazi groups is no longer enrolled in the school. Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Lori Stettler tells The (Carbondale) Southern Illinoisan that as of Wednesday the male student was no longer enrolled at the Carbondale campus but said that the students' rights to privacy prevented her from identifying the student or elaborating on the reasons for his departure.

 

CHICAGO (AP) — The board of directors of Feeding America announced this week that Claire Babineaux-Fontenot has been named CEO. Babineaux-Fontenot has held leadership positions at Walmart, the law firm of Adams and Reese, and in government offices. Feeding America describes itself as the nation's largest organization battling hunger. Its network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries provide 4 billion meals to people facing hunger in the U.S. each year.

 

 

(Undated--jc) Illinois is celebrating its 200th anniversary as a state. Here is today’s Bicentennial Minute…

 

 

(Springfield--jc)  -- In an effort to reduce interest payments, Governor Bruce Rauner signed SB 28-58 into law, allowing Illinois to invest funding from other sectors to generate interest monies.The new law could save the state up to 100 million dollars a year in interest payments. State Treasurer Michael Frerichs says now,  if the state has a bill that is more than 90 days late, they start paying 1 percent interest per month, or 12 percent annually. The state has the ability to borrow money at a much cheaper rate.

 

 

(Washington--jc)  --The Republican-supported legislation that would make last winter’s tax cuts permanent has passed the House but its future in the Senate is uncertain.Illinois Congressman Rodney Davis’ bill removes the 2025 expiration of the lower tax rates enacted into law in December. It passed the House Friday with a couple Democrats breaking with their party and supporting it. Davis later said the passage is a great step forward for providing certainty in the tax code and is hopeful that the Senate will move on it soon.

 

 

(Undated--jc)  -- The Centers for Disease Control this week released some sobering statistics about last year's flu season, but the numbers may not account for the people who got sick in Illinois.The CDC said 80,000 people in the U.S. died from the flu last year. Almost a million more got sick. Illinois' flu toll is just a fraction of that, but we don't know the total number.The Illinois Department of Public Health's Melaney Arnold said that's because the state doesn't track adult deaths.

 

 

(Ford County--jc)  -- Several fire departments are helping put out a shed fire in rural Ford County this morning.  Officials say the fire is at a farm west of Loda and Route 115. No word on how the blaze started. Fire Departments from Roberts, Melvin, Elliott and Gibson City responded to the blaze. WPXN news will update this story as more information becomes available

 

 

(Urbana--jc)  -- The next move in a tax-exemption hearing is in the hands of lawyers for Champaign based Carle Foundation Hospital of Urbana. A judge on Friday told lawyers for the local hospital, they have until October 19 to file positions on their interpretation of the Illinois State Supreme Court decision in late September. At stake is the amount of tax owed by the hospital group. More is also expected by November when the issue comes back to the court system

 

 

(Chicago--jc)  -- Illinois has been warned by federal authorities that the state has significantly over-issued federal food assistance to individuals who didn't qualify and may face a large fine as a result. A letter issuing the warning was sent from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to the Illinois Department of Human Services. USDA officials found that Illinois has a number of problems with its issuance of federal food assistance to a “significant portion of the SNAP caseload” and the issue may be what they called “systemic.”  The feds say the state ignored reporting requirements for a number of cases, even suspending the requirements for all households due to report in January and February. As as result, the USDA found that Illinois issued food stamps to a significant number of people from November through February, even though they didn't qualify under federal law.


 

(Springfield--jc)  -- With harvest continuing, it’s that time of year when farmers and motorists need to share the road. There are typically more than 275 crashes with farm equipment each year in Illinois. University of Illinois Extension Safety specialists Bob Aherin says farmers must do their part...

 

 

U of I Extension Safety Specialist Bob Aherin

Aherin says the motoring public needs to do their part to by slowing down, giving big farm equipment plenty of room and also to know that farm machinery will be on local and area roads through harvest.

 

 

CARBONDALE, Ill. (AP) — An official at Southern Illinois University says a student accused earlier this month of belonging to a white supremacist neo-Nazi groups is no longer enrolled in the school. Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Lori Stettler tells The (Carbondale) Southern Illinoisan that as of Wednesday the male student was no longer enrolled at the Carbondale campus but said that the students' rights to privacy prevented her from identifying the student or elaborating on the reasons for his departure.

 

DANVILLE, Ill. (AP) — Authorities say two students at an eastern Illinois high school face criminal charges after a firework was set off inside the school, prompting a lockdown of all classrooms.Police say the loud explosion happened Wednesday morning inside Danville High School.Danville Public Safety Director Larry Thomason says that two male students were each charged with possession of an explosive and reckless conduct and were being detained at the county's juvenile detention center. No one was hurt in the incident

 

WHEATON, Ill. (AP) — DuPage County's health department says an elderly person has died of West Nile virus _ the first human death of the virus in the county in four years. The Chicago Tribune reports that the person who died became ill in early September.

 

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