(Springfield-jm) – No vaping inside public places under a bill that passed the Illinois Senate Thursday. The legislation updates the Smoke-Free Illinois Act that banned smoking regular cigarettes in bars, restaurants and the like back in 2007. There’s widespread support to add vaping, says Senator Steve McClure of Springfield…

State Senator Steve McClure of Springfield. Supporters say e-cigs contain toxins that are dangerous. The bill now moves to the House for a vote.

(Springfield-jm) – Thursday in the Illinois House of Representatives, State Representative Dan Caulkins of Decatur, passed HB 1213. The bill amends the Higher Education Student Assistance Act so that scholarships can be awarded under the Teach Illinois Scholarship Program to teachers who agree to pursue a master’s degree in order to teach dual credit courses…

State Representative Dan Caulkins of Decatur. State Senator Sally Turner of Beason has agreed to carry the bill in the Senate.

(Springfield-jm) – The state of Illinois is still recovering from the pandemic. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington has the latest on the unemployment numbers…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign woman will spend the next 47 years behind bars following her conviction for murder. A jury determined in January that Arieana Colbert, 22, was personally responsible for the murder of 19-year-old Acarrie Ingram-Triner on October 20, 2021. Prosecutors said the two were involved in an argument at the Champaign Park Apartments, during which Colbert pulled out a gun and fired at Ingram-Triner. One of the bullets hit her in the neck and she died as a result.

(Gibson City-jm) – Gibson Area Hospital is our WPXN Business of the Day today. Spokesperson Bill Kirby talks about the approach they take to provide the best care for their patients…

He also says they are bringing back their annual Summer Bash…

Gibson Area Hospital Spokesperson Bill Kirby. You can hear more of Bill’s interview with over the noon hour.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias’ Office is awarding more than 21 million dollars in grants to help law enforcement fight vehicle theft and carjackings. The money is going to six police organizations around the state to further address the problem. Secretary Giannoulias says he was a victim of a carjacking when he was a senior in high school…

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. Law enforcement like the State Police and the Metro East, Tri-County, Greater Peoria and Statewide Auto Theft Task Forces will use the money to expand investigations and for technology like license plate readers.

(Springfield-jm) – U of I president Timothy Killeen appeared before the Appropriations – Higher Education Committee in Springfield Thursday as the General Assembly prepares for the upcoming budget for the next fiscal year.  State Representative Mike Marron of Fithian sits on that committee and had the opportunity to question the head of the U of I system.  Marron said it was a good conversation with the U of I president…

State Representative Mike Marron of Fithian.

(Springfield-jm) – The corruption trial of 4 top Com-Ed officials with connections to former House Speaker Mike Madigan has begun. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City weighs in…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign County Circuit Clerk’s office will be hosting Amnesty Week from April 10 to April 21.  During that time, anyone who has a balance due on a criminal, traffic, DUI, ordinance violation or conservation violation will be able to pay their total due minus any late fees and collection fees which have accumulated.  This does not apply to any fines and costs which have already been paid or any tax refunds which have been applied against what is due and owing. People who want to participate in the program can request a quote in their case or cases by sending an email to cccircuitclerk@co.champaign.il.us. The email needs to include the person’s name with middle initial, their address, their phone number, their email address, and their case number or numbers.

A special food distribution at the Community Service Center of Northern Champaign County will take place on Saturday from 9-10:30 am.

Paxton IGA will host their cookout benefiting Rainbow Girls on Saturday from 10-2.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker is announcing 175 million dollars in new Back to Business Grants. This latest round of grants will help industries still trying to recover from the pandemic, says Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Director Kristin Richards…

Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Director Kristin Richards. The deadline for businesses to apply is May 10th. The grants are federally funded. More information about the Back to Business Program is available online at: illinois dot gov slash b, the number 2, b.

(Paxton-dg)-Paxton Native Gina Galey has made it past the first round on The Voice. The 19 year old goes by Gina Miles when on stage. She chose Katy Perry’s “The One That Got Away” as her first song. She chose One Direction singer Niall Horan as her coach. 

(Springfield-jm) – A fungus that officials said is often resistant to antifungal drugs has been detected in more than half of U.S. states including Illinois. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the fungus was first detected in 2016 and has spread at an alarming rate between 2020 and 2021 in health care facilities.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is announcing 10 household hazardous waste collection events this spring. The popular events are a great way to clear out the garage and safely dispose of waste, says IEPA Spokesperson Kim Biggs…

IEPA Spokesperson Kim Biggs. Latex paint, old smoke detectors and agricultural chemicals will not be accepted. To find and register for a collection date in your area, visit: epa dot illinois dot gov and search for household hazardous waste.

(Springfield-jm) – A Springfield lawmaker wants to make it easier for agriculture students to skip class – as long as they are learning and getting experience in their fields. The bill would allow students at a 4-H or FFA competitions or exhibitions to be marked at school as “in attendance” instead of absent. Senator Doris Turner is the sponsor of the bill. She said it’s important to let students learn through experience without being penalized for missing class, as events can often conflict with school days. The bill is also co-sponsored by Senator Tom Bennett.

(Rantoul-jm) – 5 new businesses are coming to the village of Rantoul. Mayor Chuck Smith says work should be completed by the middle of May…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man is wanted on an aggravated battery warrant and Crime Stoppers is asking the public for help in locating him. Officials said Lavell D. Joiner, 39, is wanted for aggravated battery to a child, with bond set at $10,000. Joiner is described as being Black with black hair and brown eyes. He is 5′ 6″ tall and weighs 223 pounds.

(Danville-jm) – A new smartphone app is launching in Vermilion County, the Circuit Clerk announced. Circuit Clerk Melissa Quick said the Vermilion County Circuit Clerk app serves as a new way for her office to connect with citizens and responders, providing information quickly and efficiently to anyone with a smartphone. Quick said the app will offer access to items of public interest and features such as: Circuit Clerk’s messages, Case searches, Court payments, Legal forms, Jury duty information, Child support, Office contact information and Court date alerts.

(Paxton-jm) – PRIDE in Paxton is our WPXN Business of the Day. The group is raising money for a new sound system downtown says Spokesperson Kim Evans…

(Paxton-jm) –  The local non-profit is raising money for a new speaker system in the downtown area of Paxton through a Queen of Hearts raffle, says Spokesperson Kim Evans…

PRIDE in Paxton Spokesperson Kim Evans. You can hear more from Kim during our noon newscast.

(Washington-jm) – The broiler industry is on a path to boost production this year, but what will that do to producer prices? Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Public Health is reporting an increase in serious cases of strep throat in children. It’s the Group A step cases that are rising, leaving five Illinois children dead due to strep-related complications so far this year. The State’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Arti Barnes says symptoms can come on fast and include a very sore throat and a fever. She recommends getting a rapid strep test so they can start antibiotics if necessary…

State Chief Medical Officer Dr Arti Barnes. Dr Barnes says if your child doesn’t seem to be better and is complaining about a cough, stomach ache, weakness or other new symptoms, it’s a good idea to check with their doctor to make sure the infection hasn’t reached their blood stream.

(Springfield-jm) – The state of Illinois is joining 21 other states in calling on Kia America and Hyundai Motor Company to take swift action to remedy the rash of car thefts that they say are the result of the companies’ failure to equip vehicles with anti-theft immobilizers. Models made from 2010 to 2021 can be operated without a key. Last year alone, there were over 7,000 Hyundai and Kia thefts in Chicago. The companies recently announced a customer service campaign to upgrade the software, but in a letter, Attorney General Kwame Raoul and a coalition of 21 other attorneys general said the plan is insufficient and incomplete.   

(Springfield-jm) – Community colleges in Illinois are enjoying the largest enrollment increase in more than a decade. Spring enrollment is up by more than 7 percent over last year. State Community College Board Executive Director Brian Durham…

State Community College Board Executive Director Brian Durham. Adult enrollment at community colleges rose by 29 percent over the year and the number of students taking dual credit courses increased by more than 10 percent.

(Champaign County-jm) – A household hazardous waste site could be coming to Champaign County. The City of Urbana has contributed $175,000 while Champaign County has contributed $650,000. Developers say they need about $1.2 million more. They plan to have the facility open in late 2024 early 2025.

(Springfield-jm) – There has been some public safety legislation filed this spring. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington talks about what it does…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man  is facing drug trafficking charges. Shavez Chapple is charged with two counts of trafficking a controlled substance after authorities say he received about 5 pounds of cocaine through the mail. Bond was set at $500,000. If convicted he faces 6 to 30 years in prison.

(Ford County-jm) – Ford County has been issued a tentative property assessment equalization factor of 1.0000, according to David Harris, Director of the Illinois Department of Revenue. Assessments in Ford County are at 32.92 percent of market value, based on sales of properties in 2019, 2020, and 2021. The equalization factor currently being assigned is for 2022 taxes, payable in 2023. Last year’s equalization factor for the county was 1.0000.

(Washington-jm) – Supplies of beef cattle are down sharply. Gary Crawford reports…

(Chicago-jm) – The trial of former ComEd officials, lobbyists and a close confidant of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan continues Tuesday. Monday, prosecutors continued presenting wiretap recordings of Madigan and Michael McClain in what is alleged to be a nearly decade-long scheme to curry favorable legislation in exchange for little- to do-nothing jobs with the utility. More evidence and witness testimony is expected in federal court in Chicago.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is urging lawmakers to pass the “Work Without Fear Act.” The bill aims to protect workers who come forward about problems on the job. Attorney General Raoul says fear of retaliation is the number one reason employees don’t report abuse or poor working conditions, noting this is especially true of immigrant workers…

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul. The legislation prohibits employers from retaliating against or intimidating whistleblowers. It specifically mentions bosses who make threats related to immigration status. The bill has passed a House committee and now awaits a vote on the House floor.

(Champaign-jm) – The City of Champaign announced that the city’s Public Works Department will invest more than $7 million in street maintenance projects during the upcoming construction season. The city said that the funds will be used for rebuilding or repairing numerous streets across Champaign. The work includes concrete street patching, asphalt repaving, and complete concrete street reconstruction.

(Champaign-jm) – The City of Champaign announced that a portion of Country Fair Drive will be closed temporarily for a 5-phase project beginning Thursday. The closure, between Church Street and Bradley Avenue, is part of the city’s Spring Pavement Patching Project. The city said the work will be done in five phases with each phase expected to last 3-4 days, weather permitting. The phases include: Phases 1 and 2: between Church Street and Springer Drive, Phase 3: between Springer Drive and Cone Drive, Phase 4: between Cone Drive and Camp Drive and Phase 5: between Camp Drive and Bradley Avenue.

(Springfield-jm) – The House finally got around to voting on bills last week.  There are quite a few to go over, says 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for dealing heroin. Dejermaine Pettis received the sentence in Champaign County court after pleading guilty to possession with intent to deliver. The charges come after police were called to a residence after 9-1-1 received a call about a man beating a woman. When they arrived, they found Pettis chasing a woman with a hammer. A search uncovered 74 grams of heroin and 38 grams of cocaine. In exchange for his guilty plea, attempted murder and aggravated domestic battery charges were dismissed as were a 2nd attempted murder case and a case of aggravated battery with a firearm.

(Paxton-jm) – Glad’s Tree Service is our WPXN Business of the Day today. Dawn Glad talks about the history and the people who work at Glad’s Tree Service…

The number to call if you need your trees trimmed or removed is 217-379-4049 or find them on Facebook.   The family owned business has been serving the Paxton and surrounding area for a little over a decade. Dawn Glad with Glad’s Tree Service shares what all they do…

Dawn Glad with Glad’s Tree Service in Paxton, our WPXN Business of the Day today. You can hear the complete interview with Dawn Glad during our noon news.

(Washington-jm) – The Agriculture Secretary Monday provided updates on a USDA program supporting increased domestic fertilizer production in our nation. Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Both chambers of the Illinois General Assembly return to Springfield Tuesday. The Senate extended its deadline for measures to advance out of Senate committees. The House is expected to move bills out of that chamber of final passage throughout the week. Committees are scheduled to address education, health care and human services, among other issues. The legislature’s spring session goes through mid-May.

(Springfield-jm) – Legislation pending in the Illinois House makes it illegal to drive with your pet in your lap. The concern is that pets can be a distraction, especially if they are behind the wheel with you. The bill from Representative Omar Williams of Chicago makes it against the law for your pooch or cat to ride in your lap…

State Representative Omar Williams of Chicago. The bill unanimously passed a House committee and now awaits a vote on the House floor.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is asking the public for help in identifying a man who robbed Champaign’s Five Guys restaurant last month. Officials said that on February 7, a man walked into the Five Guys, located at 901 West Anthony Drive, just before 9:40 p.m. and displayed a gun. He demanded money from the cash register and subsequently left with $400. The suspect was described as being a Black male, weighing approximately 170 pounds and approximately 6′ 4″ tall. He was last seen wearing all-black clothing and may have left in a dark-colored SUV. It appeared that the suspect had a tattoo of flames on his right hand.

(Urbana-jm) – Urbana Police confirmed officers responded to Austin Drive and Hunter Street for a report of shots fired Monday. They say the call came in around 6:09 p.m. Officers reported no one was injured and no suspects were located. The caller described hearing shots and seeing people run past their house, getting into a car, then said they heard the car drive away. Police say shell casings were found at the scene but no houses were struck by bullets.

(Springfield-jm) – State Representative Mike Marron of Fithian saw his House Resolution dealing with mental health care and access for Illinois students adopted in the House committee. House Resolution 52 urges the Illinois State Board of Education to expand mental health care and access for Illinois students and pursue recruiting people into the school mental health profession and providing enough access to students so that they can have one hour of mental health counseling per semester…

State Representative Mike Marron of Fithian.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man has been arrested for selling cocaine. Tristan Cowart is charged with 1 count of possession with intent to deliver cocaine. Police say an employee of a hotel notified police Cowart was selling cocaine out of his hotel room. Police found 7 grams of cocaine when they searched Cowart.

(Washington-jm) – The Agriculture Secretary Monday shared his view of the legality of a proposed voluntary labeling program for our nation’s meat products. Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Three years after Governor J.B. Pritzker issued a stay-at-home order closing businesses and restaurants statewide, Illinois still is struggling to get back to normal. On March 16, 2020, Pritzker ordered a halt to in-person dining at restaurants. March 20, he issued a stay-at-home order for businesses he declared nonessential. Unemployment spiked with more than 1 million claims filed in the following weeks. Since then, the governor's orders restricting business were ratcheted down. Despite that, the state’s job market has failed to recover about 39,500 jobs, according to the Illinois Policy Institute.

(Springfield-jm) – 2022 was another record year for the Illinois film industry. Governor J-B Pritzker says last year saw the highest film and tv revenue in the state’s history, at 691 million dollars. That includes tv shows like Chicago PD, Chicago Fire, The Bear, and more…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. The Governor credits a workforce training program, amazing locations and tax credits for the industry’s success in Illinois.

(Urbana-jm) – The investigation into an Urbana teenager’s murder has resulted in an arrest, Urbana Police officials said. The suspect, they added, is also a teenager. Officials said their investigation into the murder of Montrell Emery, 16, led detectives to obtain an arrest warrant for a 14-year-old juvenile from Urbana. They executed that warrant early Saturday morning in the area of Washington Street and MacArthur Drive, just a few blocks away from where Emery was killed. The teenage suspect was arrested during that police operation. In addition, officers also executed two court-ordered search warrants at the scene of Emery’s murder.

(Rantoul-jm) – Four dogs perished in a weekend fire in Rantoul. Fire crews were called to a garage fire on North Penfield Street just before 2 pm Saturday. The garage had been converted into a man cave and the resident had his four dogs inside when the fire broke out. The owner was not home when it happened. Fire investigators believe the cause of the fire was electrical and estimated it caused about $70,000 in damage. 

(Rantoul-jm) – Progress continues on several new businesses in the village of Rantoul. Mayor Chuck Smith talks about the development near the Walmart…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith.

(Paxton-jm) – A Ford County man will spend at least 12 years in prison after he was found guilty in January of multiple crimes related to domestic violence, including sexual assault. Arthuro Crawford of Paxton was sentenced on the four counts he was convicted of: two of aggravated domestic battery and one count each of criminal sexual assault and unlawful restraint. In addition to these charges, Crawford is also facing charges related to his efforts, while in the Ford County Jail, to communicate threats to the victim through a third party, a violation of an order of protection and bond restraints. The trial for those charges is scheduled for April.

(Urbana-jm) – Artists at Taylor Studios in Rantoul are finishing a unique project nearly a year in the making. The statue’s next steps include making its way to the U of I campus. It’s a 3500-pound and 16-foot tall wooly mammoth. It will go outside the Natural History Building.

(Washington-jm) – The USDA is investing in bringing risk management education and training to more farmers and ranchers. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois continues to be one of the top sports betting states in the country.  The Illinois Gaming Board reports that Illinois sportsbooks set a record for handle in January and topped $1 billion for the fourth consecutive month. Illinois is just the fourth state to post four consecutive months of billion-dollar handle. The others are New York, New Jersey and Nevada. Illinois passed Pennsylvania for third place in lifetime sports betting handle with over $19 billion bet on sports. In January, Illinois sportsbooks produced total tax revenue of $15.4 million. Last year, sports betting in Illinois produced total tax revenue of nearly $128 million.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois House passed a bill that aims to keep rideshare customers safe. The legislation places companies like Uber and Lyft under what’s called “Common Carrier” laws. That means they would be held to higher safety standards, just like taxis are, says Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz of Glenview…

State Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz of Glenview. Opponents worry about the extra regulation being placed on rideshare services. The bill now moves to the Senate.

(Champaign-jm) – University of Illinois Police are investigating after thousands of dollars’ worth of damage was discovered on two outdoor mailboxes near campus. UIPD officials said the incident happened at the post office at 302 East Green Street, located in the Campustown neighborhood. Someone tried to use a pry bar to access the contents of the mailboxes. The damage is estimated to cost $6,000.

(Urbana-jm) – Champaign County is in desperate need for election judges ahead of the April 4th election. The county needs 210 election judges to staff polling places, but right now they are about 100 election judges short. Both parties must be represented and the Champaign County Clerk's office says of the 100 election judges they still need, about 60 need to be Republican. If they don’t get enough election judges, they could be forced to consolidate polling locations. The deadline to sign up to be an election judge is March 28th. You can sign up online at champaign county clerk dot com.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate was not in session last week but that doesn’t mean things weren’t being done. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City says he held a meeting with ag leaders…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Rantoul-jm) – One school in Champaign County now has the green light to start a renovation project.  Rantoul Township High School will soon have a refreshed lobby, loft area, and basement. They’re working with a Champaign contractor to make the first phase of the multi-million dollar program happen. Some offices will be gutted and replaced with bathrooms. The work is set to begin next summer and continue during the school year.

(Ford County-jm) – One Ford County Board member wants to solve a problem plaguing many communities like his across the country. Board member Tim Nuss wants the county to explore options to bring health providers to rural areas of the county. Right now, there is a clinic in Paxton and Gibson Area Hospital in Gibson City but nothing else in the county. Transportation is also a challenge that he hopes to address as well.

(Washington-jm) – The Agriculture Secretary says that agricultural disaster programs need more built-in flexibility. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Officials at the Illinois Department of Public Health are alerting Illinoisans about a rise in strep cases. IDPH director Dr. Sameer Vohra said that more cases of Group A strep have been reported in the first three months of 2023 than in any one of the past five years. Vohra advised parents to contact their health providers if their children start showing symptoms, which include a sore throat and fever.

(Springfield-jm) – Republicans in the Illinois House say several reforms are needed to make the state more business friendly. The GOP says they have had several bills over the years that would help attract and keep jobs in Illinois. But State Representative Dan Ugaste (you-gas-tee) of Geneva says they haven’t been called for a vote…

State Representative Dan Ugaste of Geneva. House Republicans argue that with new businesses, come more people moving to Illinois.

(Springfield-jm) – It's onto the Illinois Senate with a bill to prohibit the production of ethanol using seeds that have been treated with a pesticide. House Bill 1440 passed the House Wednesday mostly along party lines. The measure amends the Illinois Pesticide Act to include language prohibiting seeds treated with pesticides from being used for such production.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker is touring the state touting his proposed investments in higher education. The Governor has now been to Bloomington and Springfield, with more stops scheduled in the coming days. He says his proposed budget calls for the largest funding increase for community colleges in over two decades…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. Governor Pritzker also wants to pump another 100 million dollars into college map grants to help more students pursue higher education.

(Champaign-jm) – About 900 young archers from 42 Illinois schools have qualified to participate in the 2023 Illinois State Archery Tournament March 24-25 at Champaign Centennial High School. The event has taken place in Springfield, but because of rapid growth of youth archery the past few years, organizers decided to move the 2023 tournament to Champaign to accommodate space and amenity needs.

(Springfield-jm) – 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City is sponsoring a pair of legislative bills to help schools. Senator Bennett explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – A shooting in Champaign last December left two men hurt, and Champaign County Crime Stoppers is looking for help from the public to identify a person of interest. The shooting happened just before 8 p.m. in the area of Beardsley and Prospect Avenues. Police officers responding to reports of a shooting found two victims, ages 48 and 28, each with a single gunshot wound to the leg. The victims were treated at the hospital and were subsequently released.

(Washington-jm) – Consumers saw some big declines in egg prices last month, but they remain much higher than a year ago. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois House approved a measure amending who can conduct a marriage. House Bill 1111 passed mostly along party lines Wednesday. The measure provides that a marriage may be solemnized by a state executive branch constitutional officer like governor or comptroller, or any member of the Illinois General Assembly who is in office at the time of the ceremony.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services wants to make sure Medicaid recipients continue to be covered. The agency is launching a public awareness campaign about the need for those on Medicaid to renew their benefits. Spokesperson Evan Fazio says recipients haven’t had to do this since the pandemic began three years ago. He notes that everyone’s renewal date is different…

Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services Spokesperson Evan Fazio. The renewal notices will be sent by mail so Fazio advises logging into your account at: abe dot illinois dot gov to make sure the correct address is on file.

(Springfield-jm) – Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias supports a measure that would ban zooming while driving. House Bill 2431, sponsored by State Representative Marcus Evans and State Senator Javier Cervantes , would make it illegal to use a cell phone or other device to watch or participate in video conferencing, streaming videos, or accessing any social media site. Under the proposal drivers would still be able to participate in video congruence calls but only if they use a hands-free device and if the video is turned off. Violating the law would result in a moving violation ticket and a maximum fine of $75 on the first offense, $100 on the second offense, $125 on the third offense, and $150 for all future offenses. Three moving violations in a year will result in a license suspension.

(Springfield-jm) – Expect to see a heightened police presence out on the roads for the St. Patrick’s Day weekend. The state police and more than 200 local law enforcement agencies are teaming up to help keep people safe through the weekend, says Illinois Department of Transportation Spokesperson Paul Wappel…

IDOT Spokesperson Paul Wappel. Wappel says if you’re hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party, remember that you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you served drinks to is involved in a DUI crash.

(Champaign County-jm) – Illinois State Police Troop 7 announced the March results of the Champaign County Occupant Restraint Enforcement Patrols, a project funded through IDOT. The patrols resulted in 23 safety belt citations, 0 child restraint citations, 42 total citations, and 10 written warnings in Champaign County during March.

(Springfield-jm) – A local state representative is working to change the way the state raises taxes. The legislation is being co-sponsored by 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington.

(Watseka-jm) – The USDA recently recognized the top crop producing counties in the country.  And Iroquois County ranked among the best in both corn and soybean production. Iroquois County is 4th for soybeans.

(Washington-jm) – Hog producers are seeing strong production and lower prices. Gary Crawford reports…

WPXN News Notes…

The Paxton Emergency Response Service will hold their all you can eat chicken and noodle supper tonight from 5-7 pm at their station located at 134 W. State Street. Cost is $10 for adults, $6 for kids 6-13. Deliveries are available in town by calling 217-202-6441.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois workers saw more than 7% pay growth in February compared to the previous February, new data shows. ADP recently released its February 2023 National Employment Report and the accompanying Pay Insights, which measures job and pay growth, respectively. The reports found that Illinois workers who stayed in their role for the previous 12 months had a median salary of $59,300, a 7.6% increase from February of 2022. These stats compare to a national median salary of $57,600 and median pay growth of 7.2% for job stayers.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker is calling on major pharmacies to clarify their positions on making abortion medication accessible to customers. Governor Pritzker and 14 of his counterparts in other states want to hear from companies like CVS, Target, Walmart and Kroger about where they stand…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. That one is Walgreens, which announced that stores in certain states will not dispense abortion medication. The Governor has called that deeply concerning.

(Springfield-jm) – As Illinois gaming revenues soar to record highs in 2022, so has gambling debt. In Illinois, 400,000 people have a gambling problem and another 700,000 are at risk for developing a problem. Like any other addiction, a gambling addiction will only get worse unless the person faces up to it and gets help. Call the anonymous hotline 1-800-GAMBLER anytime to talk to a trained counselor.

(Springfield-jm) – This winter has been the 8th warmest on record in Illinois. For weather purposes, winter runs December through February. State Climatologist Trent Ford says the average statewide temperature during that time was 33 point 7 degrees. Nearly 4 degrees above normal…

State Climatologist Trent Ford. Ford says because of the mild temps, the emergence of perennials is about 2 to 3 weeks ahead of schedule. Average statewide precipitation was about 3 quarters of an inch above normal, making this winter the 34th wettest on record in Illinois.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man has been sentenced to 8 years in prison for indecent solicitation of a minor. Michael Holt received the sentence in Champaign County court. In exchange for his guilty plea, a charge of aggravated criminal sexual abuse and a separate 2018 case of residential burglary and theft were dismissed.

(Paxton–jc)  –  A new concert venue is coming to the city of Paxton. The business is called “The Cadillac” as the building was home to a car dealership. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold talks about the surrounding businesses and what another new business means for the city of Paxton…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Police Department says they responded to two separate incidents of Dominoes drivers being carjacked and robbed on March 8 and 10. A delivery driver stated that four men in masks approached and threatened him while he was working as a delivery driver near the intersection of Bradley Ave. and McKinley Ave. around 7:40 pm on March 8. The suspects robbed him of his phone, wallet, and vehicle. Around 6:27 pm on March 10, Champaign police received a report of a robbery and carjacking in the 1900 block of Meadow Dr. to another Dominoes driver. The driver stated that two men in masks approached him with a pistol and robbed him, stealing his vehicle and leaving the area.

(Springfield-jm) – Jury selection gets underway for the so-called “ComEd Four” accused of funneling money and job contracts to Michael Madigan’s associates in an effort to influence the former Speaker of the House. Long time Madigan confidante Michael McClain, former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore (pram-ah-jor-ee), former ComEd lobbyist John Hooker and ex-City Club president Jay Doherty have all pleaded not guilty of the charges.

(Springfield-jm) – Legislation advancing at the Illinois statehouse would get motorists in hot water for letting their pet ride on the driver’s lap.  House Bill 2910 provides that a person who holds an animal in the person’s lap while operating a motor vehicle is guilty of a petty offense. The bill’s sponsor, state Representative Jawaharial Williams of Chicago, said pets aren’t covered under distracted driving laws. Williams cited a AAA survey that showed that 31% of drivers with pets said they have been distracted by their pets while driving, and 20% of drivers who have admitted to driving with the pet on their lap have been involved in accidents. Offenders would be subject to a $50 fine. The measure moved out of the transportation committee and is headed to the House floor. 

(Springfield-jm) – Tuesday was Equal Pay Day. Equal Pay Day marks how much longer a woman must work to match what a man made the previous year. On average, women earn 84 cents for every dollar a male gets. Representative Anna Moeller of Elgin says this can have long term economic effects…

State Representative Anna Moeller of Elgin. Moeller says wage discrepancies are even broader for minority women.

(Milford-jm) – A former University of Illinois employee has been sentenced to a 2nd chance program after she fraudulently used her university credit card for personal purchases. Rebecca Nash of Milford received the sentence after pleading guilty to credit card fraud. Nash used her university credit card to make several personal purchases. In total, she still owes the university $10,446 which will be taken out of her retirement. If she completes the terms of the 2 year program, she will have no criminal record.

(Rantoul–jc)  The village of Rantoul is undertaking a “streetscape” program for the downtown area. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says the investment to the downtown area is over 5 and one half million dollars…

Rantoul Village Mayor Chuck Smith.

(Champaign-jm) – To commemorate the achievements and contributions of older adults, State Senator Paul Faraci is asking residents to submit their nominations for the 2023 Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame. The Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame celebrates outstanding accomplishments in community service, education, the labor force and the arts. Eligibility is based on an individual’s past and present accomplishments, and the candidate must be a current Illinois citizen or a former citizen for most of their life. Posthumous nominees are also considered. Nominations for 2023 inductees must be submitted by June 1.

(Washington-jm) – The world is producing more wheat than expected, especially one major wheat growing nation. Gary Crawford reports…

WPXN News notes…

The Paxton Emergency Response Service will hold their all you can eat chicken and noodle supper on Thursday, March 16th from 5-7 pm at their station located at 134 W. State Street. Cost is $10 for adults, $6 for kids 6-13. Deliveries are available in town by calling 217-202-6441.

(Springfield-jm) – Roughly 40% of fourth graders in Illinois read below the basic level, and state lawmakers want to pass a plan this spring to improve literacy. Third graders who can't read proficiently are four times more likely to drop out of school. The Annie E. Casey Foundation also found that third graders lacking basic reading skills are six times more likely to drop out of high school if they come from a low-income family. State Representative Laura Faver Dias told the House School Curriculum & Policies Committee that her proposal could require the Illinois State Board of Education to develop a comprehensive literacy plan and modify the reading improvement block grants program. 

(Springfield-jm) – Court cases challenging two major state laws are now before the Illinois Supreme Court, but Governor J-B Pritzker says he remains confident that both will be upheld as constitutional. After a Macon County judge ruled the recent law banning assault weapons is unconstitutional, the Supreme Court agreed to an accelerated schedule for appeal. Oral arguments are set for May, and the Governor says the state expects to prevail…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. The Governor says the same goes for the no-cash bail portion of the Safe-T Act. Oral arguments will be heard today.

(Sadorus-jm) – A 17-year-old from Ford County is under arrest after he was accused of stabbing a man in Sadorus late Friday night. The stabbing happened at a party. Deputies found a 19-year-old with three stab wounds to his lower back. A preliminary investigation indicated that a physical fight broke out at the party between the 17-year-old and his 15-year-old girlfriend, both from the Paxton area. When the victim intervened and tried to break up the fight, officials said, the 17-year-old stabbed him with a knife. The 17-year-old was arrested on charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated domestic battery. 

(Springfield-jm) – There was some big news recently about the lawsuits against the state’s new gun law.  A Macon County judge ruled the gun ban unconstitutional and a temporary restraining order was already in place.  It appears that attorneys for the state will appeal to the Supreme Court. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington.

(Champaign County-jm) – Champaign County is cleaning up its finances. Board members voted unanimously to fix a 6-year-old mistake on the books. A memo from the county treasurer says back in 2017 and 2018, bank reconciliations weren’t completed in entirety. That means certain activity wasn’t recorded – things like chargebacks and wire fees. The shortages add up to just over $27,000. The resolution that passed will amend the budget and move money over from the fund balance to cover the shortage.

(Washington-jm) – U.S. corn exports are lower than most experts had expected. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – A new study shows that Illinoisans are getting one of the largest amounts of federal tax refunds in the country.  SmartAsset found that for the 2021 tax year, Illinois ranked fifth in the country with an average federal tax refund of $1,739. To determine where taxpayers receive the largest refunds, SmartAsset analyzed the average dollar amount of 2021 federal tax refunds for all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Though it did not play a role in Illinois' rankings, they also examined state and local income tax refunds for tax year 2020. The study also found that Illinois had the second-lowest average state and local tax refund out of all states in 2020 at an average of $581. 

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker is signing a new law guaranteeing Illinois workers up to 40 hours of paid leave each year. Illinois is now the third state in the nation with such a law, ensuring employees that need to tend to a sick child, go to a dentist appointment or get their car fixed can do so without losing money, or their job. Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, who cared for her mother with Alzheimer’s Disease, says having this paid leave time will help ease the burden when life gets in the way…

Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. The law takes effect next year and workers will be able to use the time for any reason.

(Broadlands-jm) – A man from Broadlands in Champaign County is wanted after Crime Stoppers said he failed to appear in court related to sex offender registration. Bert Zeanah was arrested in 2020 on a charge of failing to register as a sex offender. A court hearing was scheduled in 2021, but Zeanah did not come to the hearing. A warrant for his arrest was issued that day and he has been on the run since. Zeanah is described as being White with gray hair and brown eyes. He is 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs 200 pounds.

(Urbana-jm) – Whether coming back from spring break or just starting fresh, it’s important for kids to develop healthy eating habits. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has some tips for parents…

My plate dot gov has good suggestions to fill out your plate.

(Watseka-jm) – Iroquois County Clerk Breein Suver reminds citizens that the County Clerk’s office will be open for Grace Period Registration and Voting now thru April 4, 2023. During this grace period, an unregistered qualified elector may register to vote (two forms of I.D. will be needed) and also a registered voter may submit a change of address form in person at the County Clerk’s office. Office hours for Grace Period Voting are as follows: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Saturday, April 1st office hours are from 8:30 a.m. – noon. Additionally, the County Clerk’s office will be open for Grace Period Voting & Registration from 6:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4, 2023.

(Washington-jm) – 2023 began with a big agricultural export sales month. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – There’s a push in the General Assembly for gas stoves sold in Illinois to come with a warning label. The label would alert users to the risks of asthma and other respiratory illness from gas stove emissions. It’s sponsored by Representative Anne Stava-Murray of Downers Grove, who says this is not about restricting people’s choices…

State Representative Anne Stava-Murray of Downers Grove. If eventually passed and signed into law, the label requirement for gas stoves sold in Illinois would kick in next year.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois’ statewide average SAT scores declined by 10 points in reading and 13 points in math from 2021 to 2022. Since 2019, before the pandemic, the average statewide SAT score in Illinois has dropped 11 points in reading and 23 in math. The Illinois Policy Institute released a comprehensive review of statewide SAT scores. Thousands of 11th-grade students will take the SAT this April to both give the state an assessment of proficiency for Illinois high school students and provide students with a score to use for college applications. Illinois requires all high school juniors to take the SAT to graduate from high school. Among Illinois’ 20 largest school districts based on enrollment numbers in 2022, only nine beat the state average in reading and 10 in math.

(Springfield-jm) – Electronic cigarettes would be banned from indoor use under a bill that cleared a Senate committee. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Smoke Free Illinois Act. It needs to be updated to prohibit vaping indoors and within 15 feet of entrances, says Dr. Tabatha Wells, Board Chair for the Illinois Academy of Family Physicians…

Illinois Academy of Family Physicians Board Chair Dr. Tabatha Wells. The bill now moves to the Senate floor for a vote.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man has been sentenced to 16 and a half years for possessing a gun that could be turned fully automatic. Anthony Flynn received the sentence after pleading guilty to possession of a machine gun by felon after police found him in possession with a handgun that had a fully automatic switch. In exchange for his guilty plea, charges of armed violence were dismissed.

(Paxton–jc)  Ford County officials are seeking cash bids for custom farming for the county’s farm acres. Ford County Board member Cindy Ihrke says the county has three plots and provides some background on the land…

Ford County Board Member Cindy Ihrke. Bid packets are available on the counties website along with other information.

(Urbana-jm) – UIUC’s Illinois Neurodiversity Institute is looking for freshmen starting in the fall to join their program. The four-year program aims to help students on the autistic spectrum and other neurodiverse students of any major achieve success academically, socially and professionally. Some components of the program include a pre employment seminar course, and an Academic Strategies course their first semester.

(Springfield-jm) – New legislation takes aim at deepfakes. Deepfake technology is used to create very realistic digital imitations, sometimes for a fun parody but other times for nefarious reasons, says Representative Mary Edly-Allen of Libertyville…

State Representative Mary Edly-Allen of Libertyville. Edly-Allen’s bill lets victims seek civil damages.

(Springfield-jm) – More than 50,000 car seats have been recalled for safety issues that could lead to an increased risk of injury, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Dorel Juvenile Group is recalling certain Safety 1st onBoard 35 Secure Tech, Maxi-Cosi Coral XP, Maxi-Cosi Mico XP Max, Maxi-Cosi Mico XP, Maxi-Cosi Mico Luxe+, and Maxi-Cosi Infant Base child seats. The recalled car seats have manufactured dates ranging from May 1, 2020, to February 28, 2023.

(Springfield-jm) – March is Severe Weather Preparedness Month. Severe weather in Illinois ranges from blizzards and ice to tornadoes and flooding. That’s why it’s important to be prepared, says State Emergency Management Agency Spokesperson Kevin Sur…

Illinois Emergency Management Agency Spokesperson Kevin Sur. Sur also recommends keeping all important records and documents in a secure waterproof container and making an inventory of your possessions.

(Champaign-jm) – A Gibson City man is facing multiple charges in Champaign County. 67 year old Robert Schaub is facing aggravated fleeing and eluding and possession of cocaine after leading Champaign County deputies on a pursuit. Schaub was one of 17 individuals arrested in 2008 for a rural drug trafficking and conspiracy ring and had been sentenced to 35 years in prison.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Lottery broke a record when it came to sales during the first half of the fiscal year. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – A 16 year old will spend the next 7 years in juvenile prison. The 16 year old received the sentence for his role in the robbery of a Champaign CVS. He was also involved in a string of other robberies and home invasions.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J.B. Pritzker said that despite his million-dollar donations to two Illinois Supreme Court justices last year, they are independent and should not have to recuse themselves from two high-profile cases before them in which the governor is a defendant. Pritzker donated a total of $2 million from two separate accounts to then-Illinois Supreme Court candidates Mary O’Brien and Elizabeth Rochford. Those candidates are now justices on the bench of seven who will hear separate challenges to the state's no-cash bail provision next week and to the state's gun ban and registry in May. Responding to a question about the donations, Pritzker said it was "ridiculous" to suggest that anyone who received money from him should have to recuse themselves. 

(Springfield-jm) – If an Illinois lawmaker has her way, gas stoves sold in the state next year will be required to include labels warning the public about emissions. State Representative Anne Stava-Murray’s, of Downers Grove, House Bill 3572 would require all new gas stoves sold in the state starting in 2024 to have a warning label detailing the asthma risks associated with gas stove emissions. She added that this is a labeling bill and does not ban gas stoves or prevent anyone from buying gas stoves. The gas stove debate began earlier this year when Richard Trumka, Jr., a U.S. Consumer Product Safety commissioner, said in an interview that gas stoves posed a “hidden hazard” and suggested the agency could ban them.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois House Republicans are calling for real ethics reforms to be passed this spring. This is one of the GOPs top priorities, saying it’s time to enact real reforms and end corruption in government. Representative Blaine Wilhour of Effingham says that should start with exposing and eliminating conflicts of interest…

State Representative Blaine Wilhour of Effingham. Republicans also want to give the Legislative Inspector General more power to investigate claims of fraud and abuse. They propose a resolution that prevents any portraits of former House Speaker Mike Madigan from being put up in the House.

(Champaign-jm) – Parkland College has announced a new partnership with AGCO Corporation. AGCO Corporation is a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of agricultural machinery and precision agriculture technology.  Starting in Fall 2024, the college will construct a new $6 million training center on its campus. The construction was made possible by a $5 million donation from AGCO Corporation. The facility will house a new Service Technician Associate in Applied Science degree program. It will provide students with instruction specific to AGCO-branded equipment such as Fendt® and Massey Ferguson® and provide education in general ag concepts.

(Springfield-jm) – The "Evil Empire" speech was a speech delivered by U.S. President Ronald Reagan to the National Association of Evangelicals on March 8, 1983 at the height of the Cold War and Soviet-Afghan War. In that speech, Reagan referred to the Soviet Union as an "evil empire" and as "the focus of evil in the modern world". State Representative Chris Miller of Oakland honored the event…

State Representative Chris Miller of Oakland.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man on parole for having drugs is being charged with a 2021 shooting. Benjamin Sayles is charged with being an armed habitual offender. Police allege Sayles shot at a group of people on Bradley Avenue.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana teen has pleaded guilty to his role in a fatal shooting. Thomas Woodson pleaded guilty to aggravated discharge of a firearm, admitting he fired a gun in the direction of Nizeri Carter in November. In exchange for his guilty plea, charges of murder and attempted murder were dismissed. He faces up to 15 years in prison when he is sentenced April 12th.

(Washington-jm) – The Biden Administration has sent its Fiscal Year 2024 budget request to Congress. Gary Crawford reports…

(Paxton–jc)  Looking at using motor fuel taxes this Spring and Summer and city street projects is one issue for local leaders in Paxton. In updating our story from Thursday, Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the amount of dollars and prioritizing streets is on the list of things to do…… 

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Springfield-jm) – The 80-year-old man once called the "Velvet Hammer" for his successful dominance of Illinois politics is arguing the state's bribery and official misconduct statutes are unconstitutional ahead of his corruption trial. Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan faces 23 counts of racketeering, bribery and official misconduct as part of a federal indictment. Madigan said he was just doing his job as a politician and that the state's laws are overly broad. His attorneys further argue that "statutes that impermissibly chill such interactions infringe on rights that go to the core of democratic government and violate the First Amendment."

(Springfield-jm) – According to a new report, more than a million people in Illinois will receive new payments from Facebook that stems from a $650 million settlement the company reached in a lawsuit over inappropriate use of biometric data. The Chicago Tribune reported that the payouts stem from the initial $650 million settlement over an Illinois law banning inappropriate use of biometric data that was reached with the company in 2020. According to the Tribune, a second payment of $30.61 was issued to those who cashed their initial payment checks in the settlement, representing more than $40 million left over in the settlement fund from those who did not cash their first payments.

(Springfield-jm) – Legislation in the Illinois Senate ensures college students have access to emergency contraception. The bill requires public colleges and universities to have at least one “wellness” kiosk on campus that offers “Plan B” or similar contraception at a reduced price. It’s sponsored by Senator Celina Villanueva of Chicago…

State Senator Celina Villanueva of Chicago. Villanueva says the kiosk could also be stocked with things like condoms, tampons and pregnancy tests. The bill passed a Senate committee and now faces a vote on the Senate floor.

(Urbana-jm) – A grand jury returned an indictment against two Urbana, Illinois, women charging each with one count of wire fraud related to Paycheck Protection Program loans. The indictment alleges that both Tasheena White and Uniqua Whitaker, United States Postal Service employees, engaged in a scheme to submit falsified loan applications and supporting documentation to acquire PPP loans in Spring 2021. White and Whitaker each obtained approximately $20,000 in PPP loans funds. If convicted, the statutory penalties for wire fraud are a maximum of 30 years’ imprisonment, up to a three-year term of supervised release, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and restitution.

(Springfield-jm) – Legislation sponsored by 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City would help veterans and their families. Senator Bennett explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Urbana-jm) – University of Illinois Police are investigating after a car was stolen near campus. Officials said the car was stolen from the area of Sixth and Wright Streets. The victim parked their car, but left it unlocked and running while he picked up a food order from a nearby restaurant. The car was stolen while he was doing so. Inside the car was a backpack and laptop that was valued at $370.

(Urbana-jm) – The Eastern Illinois Food Bank gives out millions of meals every year. This year, they’re on track to give out even more with help from a new feature on their website. The food bank partnered with Vivery to create a feature on their website. It lets people search for food banks and pantries. Officials said the new map is easier to use and has more features. All you need to do is go on the website and click ‘try it now.’ You can search for food programs based on address, hours open, and distance. You can also look for a program based on category.

(Washington-jm) – Here's more information about USDA's latest crop forecasts for Argentina. Gary Crawford reports…

The Loda American Legion will hold their fish and chicken fry tonight from 4-7 pm. Cost is $10 for adults, kids 6-12 are $5.

The Gibson Area Hospital Foundation will hold their 1st annual A Dose of Fashion Show tonight at the Pueblo Lindo Events Center in Paxton from 7-10 pm. Cost is $25.

Paxton IGA will host their cookout benefiting the Shriners on Saturday from 10-2.

(Springfield-jm) – This is Problem Gambling Awareness Month and the Illinois Lottery reminds that help is available. Some of the signs that gambling may be an issue include lying about the habit, needing to borrow money because of losses and thinking about gambling a lot, says Lottery Spokesperson Meghan Powers…

Illinois Lottery Spokesperson Meghan Powers. You can seek out help by either calling: 1-800-gambler or visiting the website: are you really winning dot com. There you will also find a text option.

(Springfield-jm) – A power grid operator that serves Illinois and other states said increased demand will run into reduced capacity to generate electricity. Crain’s Chicago Business quoted a February report, which singled out Illinois’ clean energy bill that was signed into law in 2021. PJM, the regional grid that includes the northeast part of Illinois, estimated the legislation will take several power plants offline by 2030, and the report’s authors doubted the state will meet goals to replace fossil fuel generation with renewable energy sources.

(Springfield-jm) – Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is taking a stance against book censorship with new legislation. Secretary Giannoulias says efforts to ban certain books have been on the rise nationally, and in Illinois. The bill he’s backing ensures only libraries that refuse to ban books will be eligible for funding from his office…

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Gianoulias. During the last fiscal year, the Secretary of State’s Office awarded more than 16 hundred grants to Illinois libraries, totaling over 62 million dollars.

(Champaign-jm) – State Senator Paul Faraci advanced a measure through the Senate State Government Committee to rename and expand the ABLE Account Program in honor of the late Senator Scott Bennett. The program, created and passed by Senator Scott Bennett during the 99th General Assembly, allows individuals with disabilities and their families to save money for expenses related to living with a disability without losing access to certain federal government assistance. 

(Springfield-jm) – Legislation in Springfield would address free speech on college campuses in the state. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City is sponsoring the bill…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man who was released from jail on recognizance after being charged with shooting a man in February was arrested in western Illinois. Noah Raices, 23, was arrested in Stark County for criminal trespass at a woman's home, according to Champaign County State's Attorney Julia Rietz. Raices allegedly knocked on the door and window of a 78-year-old woman's home. Raices was arrested holding a potato fork that had come from the woman’s garage. On February 8 Raices allegedly shot a man in the chest in a parking lot at the Town & Country apartment complex around 1:15 am in the 800 block of Oakland Ave. in Urbana.

(Washington-jm) – What were the notable news items within USDA's latest look at crop production forecasts and global commodity supply and demand estimates? Rod Bain reports…

(Rantoul–jc)  The village of Rantoul is looking at an approximate cost of 11 million dollar project for a wastewater plant for the village. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says the plant has served the community through the Chanute Air Force base years, but needs to be replaced…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Springfield-jm) – Legislation pending in the Illinois Senate aims to protect child influencers. Even little ones can be seen testing and promoting products online these days, and a bill from Senator Dave Koehler of Peoria ensures they see some of the profits. It requires parents to set aside a certain percentage of the money made by uploading videos of their kids, just like the moms and dads of child actors are required to do…

State Senator Dave Koehler of Peoria. The legislation also lets children, once they hit 18, to request that the videos they are featured in be taken down.

(Springfield-jm) – State Representative Dan Caulkins of Decautr participated in a press conference on Wednesday with the Illinois State Rifle Association and House Republican colleagues, to urge Attorney General Kwame Raoul and Governor JB Pritzker to provide more clarity concerning the recent ruling by informing law-abiding gun owners whether or not the Attorney General plans to continue enforcing the firearm ban ruled unconstitutional by an Illinois circuit court judge…

State Representative Dan Caulkins of Decatur.

(Rantoul-jm) – New technology is helping one police department in Champaign County identify gunshots faster. Rantoul has had license plate readers to help solve crimes, but now, new sensors are the most recent addition to the toolbox to help keep you safe. They’re called Raven gunshot sensors. They’re attached to light poles and have a solar panel on top. When the system hears a gunshot, it alerts officers and 911 dispatchers within 30-60 seconds.

(Springfield-jm) – State Representative Mike Marron of Fithian is sponsoring three bills during the spring legislative session which would fund three major infrastructure needs in his district.  Marron said these projects are of major importance to the economic development and future growth in the three largest communities he represents. Representative Marron made a trip to the governor’s office with a letter reminding the governor of an invitation he had extended to the chief executive, to see these projects for himself, with the hope they might find their way into the state budget…

State Representative Mike Marron of Fithian.

(Champaign-jm) – A man with addresses in Rantoul and Champaign has been sentenced to 4 years in prison for breaking into a home. Santito Lindsay was mowing a property in Champaign in August when he broke into the home and stole several expensive pairs of shoes.

(Washington-jm) – U.S. supplies of soybeans are tighter than expected with exports higher than expected. Gary Crawford reports…

(Paxton–jc)  Looking at using motor fuel taxes to complete street repairs and upgrades is a topic for Paxton City leaders. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says his office along with city councilmen and city workers are looking at potential street projects… 

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Springfield-jm) – Stomach flu cases are on the rise in Illinois, some severe enough to send people to the hospital. While most norovirus cases typically occur between November and April in a given year, cases in the Midwest have spiked dramatically since mid-January. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports norovirus, often referred to as the stomach flu, is not related to influenza but is very contagious.

(Springfield-jm) – The University of Illinois Flash Index, a measure of the Illinois economy, increased to 103.4 from 103.1 in January, fueled by strong state revenues. Any figure over 100 is considered growth. According to Professor Fred Giertz, the Illinois economy is still growing moderately after the surge of the recovery from the COVID-19 recession. Giertz said the Illinois and national economies still provide no clear signals of whether a soft landing or modest recession is in store later this year.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association is asking the legislature for a number of changes to help the industry continue to recover from the pandemic. One of the bills the group is pushing protects hotel workers from verbally abusive guests says Association President Mike Jacobson…

Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association President Mike Jacobson. Jacobson says they also want to level the playing field by requiring short-term rental companies to collect hotel taxes and for the state to establish a fund for attracting conventions to Illinois.

(Thomasboro-jm) – Champaign County Coroner Duane Northrup has released the identity of the man killed on Route 45 Monday afternoon. Brian Schue, 29, of Rantoul, was struck by a pickup truck while changing a tire, according to the Illinois State Police. Schue was pronounced dead around 6pm on March 6 at a hospital in Urbana. A preliminary autopsy indicated that he died from blunt force injuries related to the incident. The incident is under investigation by the Illinois State Police and the Champaign County Coroner's Office.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man will spend the next eight years in prison after he pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Bobby Carter, was sentenced after entering a guilty plea. He was given credit for 275 days already served in custody.

(Paxton–jc) – With snow this past weekend, a warm day on Monday and some snow predicted later this week, city roads are taking a beating. City alleys in Paxton are also in need of repair. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says that subject is a concern for city workers…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Champaign-jm) – Plans for a new gas station in Champaign are moving forward. QuikTrip is building a new station on North Neil Street near I-74. This will be QuikTrip’s 5th store in Illinois.

(Washington-jm) – New consumer polls are showing increasing concerns about rising food prices. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois state lawmakers are getting a better idea of what the state's revenue will look like over the next year. The Illinois Department of Revenue and Governor's Office of Management and Budget said they are optimistic about the economic forecast. Financial experts expect to see a recession in the second half of Fiscal Year 2023. However, Illinois leaders believe the country can recover from the slight recession during the third quarter of this year. A recession could lead to a decline in overall economic activity, and House Republicans are concerned about the impact outmigration has on the state's tax revenue.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois lawmakers are working on legislation that would require full-day kindergarten. Currently, school districts can offer full-or-half day kindergarten, but the measure would mandate the full school day option. The measure is sponsored by state Representative Mary Beth Canty, a Democrat from Arlington Heights. She said the legislation will help boost academic performance. 

(Springfield-jm) – Legislation passed by a House committee Tuesday makes it illegal to get your cat declawed. Unless a veterinarian deems declawing is necessary for the cat’s health, the practice would be banned under the bill. Violators face fines of at least $500. It’s sponsored by Representative Barbara Hernandez of Aurora…

State Representative Barbara Hernandez of Aurora. Opponents say this isn’t needed since declawing isn’t done that much anymore and that cats that have been declawed are less likely to be adopted from shelters.

(Paxton-dg)-A popular Cissna Park coffee shop is coming to Paxton. Kino’s Coffee located downtown Cissna Park will be opening a second location in Paxton on the bottom floor of the historic Clark Building which was the office of the Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce. Opening date is tentative for June or July.

(Danville-jm) – A 78-year-old man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after he pleaded guilty in Vermilion County to sexually assaulting his intellectually underdeveloped great-niece. Roger Deckard was charged with two counts of criminal sexual assault, each of which he was sentenced to 10 years in prison for. Those sentences will be served consecutively and he must serve at least 85% of each sentence.

(Undated-jm) – Lakeview College of Nursing has announced those who have received their white coats. Among them are Kaitlyn Goodwin of Hoopeston and Jessica Tillman of Cissna Park.

(Springfield-jm) – With the announcement that COVID disaster declarations will be ending, several programs are also ending. Medicaid changes implemented during the COVID pandemic will be coming to an end in June. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City says SNAP benefits have also changed…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – Six-time Olympic medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee will serve as the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s commencement speaker Saturday, May 13 in Memorial Stadium. Competing in four different Olympic games in track and field, Joyner-Kersee is the first woman to win back-to-back gold medals in the heptathlon and the first woman to break 7,000 points in the heptathlon – a world record still standing today. She also is the first African American woman to win an Olympic medal in the long jump. 

(Washington-jm) – Food shoppers are changing the way they shop in response to rising food prices. Gary Crawford reports…

(Thomasboro-jm) – One person is dead following an accident on Route 45 near Thomasboro. Illinois State Police say a pickup truck struck a person changing their tire in the northbound lane of Route 45 just before 5pm. The person changing their tire was taken to the hospital where they later died. The driver of the pickup was taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

(Springfield-jm) – There’s another push this year to outlaw “sweepstakes machines” in Illinois. Sweepstakes machines generally look like a kiosk, and the payout is in the form of a coupon that you can exchange for merchandise online or cash from the retailer. But here’s the problem, says Illinois Gaming Board Administrator Marcus Fruchter…

Illinois Gaming Board Administrator Marcus Fruchter. Sweepstakes machines have long been used in communities that don’t allow video gaming. Legislation in both the House and Senate bans these types of machines.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is asking the public for help in locating a man wanted for sex crimes. Officials said Andrew Kirk, 35, is wanted on a charge of aggravated criminal sexual abuse. Bond is already set at $100,000. He is described as being Black, 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 142 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes.

(Springfield-jm) – The state Supreme Court will decide next week the constitutionality of the Safe-T Act. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City says he is eagerly awaiting the decision…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign County-jm) – The Champaign County Clerk and Recorder’s Office will host a Veteran’s Resource event next Wednesday. The event will be held on March 15 from 4:30PM-6PM at the VFW 630 at 1303 E Main St., Urbana. Community partners joining in the event include the Veterans Assistance Commission, Champaign County Supervisor of Assessments, The Salvation Army, Regional Planning Commission and a representative from the Danville V.A. Hospital. The event is free and open to everyone.  Information and resources will be shared with veterans from the various organizations at the event. 

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign woman was recently defrauded of more than $4,000 after police said she was the victim of check fraud. University of Illinois Police officials said the victim initially wrote a check for just over $400 on Jan. 28 to pay a local plumbing company for recent work at her home. She dropped the check off at a mailbox at the post office located at the intersection of Green and Third Streets, close to the U of I campus. The victim later discovered that the check had been stolen and altered to charge her account with more than ten times the amount she initially tried to pay. The victim notified her bank and police.

(Springfield-jm) – The U.S. Monday announced it is requesting technical consultations with Mexico through the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement to resolve issues regarding agricultural biotechnology. Rod Bain reports…

(Gibson City-jm) – A Gibson City man will spend the next 35 years in prison after he was found guilty of sexually assaulting an 11-year-old girl. Nicolas Thurman, 48, was sentenced on Monday after his January conviction on a charge of predatory criminal sexual assault. He will be required to serve 85% of his sentence. Ford County State’s Attorney Andrew Killian asked Judge Matthew Fitton for a 48-year-sentence out of the maximum 60 years. In addition to the case of sexual assault he was sentenced on, Thurman is facing a charge of attempted predatory criminal sexual assault involving a different victim. That trial would take place in April.

(Springfield-jm) – A University of Illinois Labor Professor says the idea of a five-day work week is long overdue for an overhaul. Alternative schedules and working remotely really had a chance to shine during the pandemic, so now may be a good time to consider if a four-day work week is feasible. Professor Robert Bruno says pilot studies have shown it can work…

U of I Law Professor Robert Bruno. Bruno says allowing employees to have time for a healthy work-life balance can lower the risk of burnout and worker dissatisfaction. He notes that a shorter work week may be difficult in some industries, but that changes could be made such as holding school year round but only Mondays through Thursdays.

(Urbana-jm) – A pair of University of Illinois students were recently scammed out of more than $3,000 in a false employment scam, U of I Police reported on Monday. Officials said the students responded to an email application for a research position with an “Illinois Community College” and were subsequently asked for money to pay for office supplies. They sent a total of $3,100 in several transactions and received checks for reimbursement, but their bank later deemed those checks to be fraudulent.

(Springfield-jm) – 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City is sponsoring legislation to help students going into college select a career. Senator Bennett explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is asking the public for help in solving a murder cold case. The murder happened on July 23, 2021. Officials said that at 5 p.m. on that date, officers responding to a shooting report found Jayvohn Foster, 26, near the intersection of Edward Hoffman and Newcastle Drives. Foster had been shot in the abdomen and he later died from this injury at a local hospital. Anyone who has information that could help authorities solve the case is asked to submit their knowledge to Crime Stoppers

(Gibson City-jm) – A Gibson City man is behind bars after a shooting Friday night. The Gibson City Police arrested 20-year-old Charles Harwick. He is being charged with aggravated discharge of a firearm, reckless discharge of a firearm, and reckless conduct and resisting/obstructing a peace officer.

(Washington-jm) – The latest round of funding has been announced for a USDA lending program aimed to help build production capacity in the meat and poultry processing sector. Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – A Macon County judge has declared Illinois’ gun ban and registry unconstitutional, setting up a direct appeal to the Illinois Supreme Court. Following a status hearing Friday afternoon in the case, Judge Rodney Forbes signed an agreed order declaring the measure unconstitutional. The state of Illinois, which agreed to the language of the final order in the Macon County case, argues that the appellate court is wrong and wanted to get it before the Supreme Court as quickly as possible.

(Springfield-jm) – Free test prep for college students? That’s an idea introduced at the state capitol. Chicago Representative LaShawn Ford wants state public colleges and universities to provide test preparation for exams like the GMAT for grad  school and the L-SAT for law school, at no cost to students. He says this will help ease nerves and improve test scores…

State Representative LaShawn Ford of Chicago. Ford says he isn’t sure yet how much this would cost the state.

(Springfield-jm) – A higher percentage of Illinois small businesses could not pay their rent in full in February.  The small business network Alignable surveyed thousands of business owners from across the country and found that 35% of small businesses in Illinois couldn’t afford their rent last month, the fourth highest in the country.

(Springfield-jm) – Women can learn more about their reproductive health rights in a new guide from Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul and the State Department of Human Rights.  Now that Roe-v-Wade has been overturned and other states are enacting various reproductive laws, the state wants to make sure women know their rights when it comes to pregnancy, childbirth and abortion. Human Rights Director Jim Bennett…

State Department of Human Rights Director Jim Bennett. The guide offers examples of discrimination in a variety of settings. You can find it online at: dhr dot illinois dot gov, under publications.

(Champaign-jm) – A fallen tree caused a house fire in Champaign according to the Champaign Fire Department. The department responded to a fire at an unoccupied house on South Fair Street around 5:30 p.m. on Friday. A passerby reported smoke coming from the home. Crews found that a fallen tree had damaged the weatherhead of the home, causing a fire in the attic. Crews used multiple hose lines from a distance and were able to confine the fire to the building. No injuries were reported.

(Cissna Park-jm) – A Cissna Park man was sentenced to 7 years in prison on sex assault charges. Timothy Baker received the sentence after being convicted of two criminal sexual assault charges. 

(Springfield-jm) – State Republicans are trying to lower energy costs for working families. One of those pushing for legislative leaders to do something is 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign County-jm) – For weeks, the Champaign County Forest Preserve District has been asking people what changes they want to see at parks. Now, thanks to a $400,000 dollar grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the district will be able to make improvements. They will spend the $400,000 they were awarded at the Buffalo Trace Prairie in Mahomet. It’s across the street from the Museum of the Grand Prairie at Lake of the Woods.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill in the State Capital would increase penalties against people who harm DCFS workers on the job. The proposal would make committing aggravated battery against a DCFS worker on duty a felony for people 21 and up. Supporters of the bill say it will keep workers safe, but they also want to see other reforms to protect employees from working in pairs to more training including in de-escalation techniques.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Prtizker is touting his three year plan to ease the teacher shortage in Illinois. The initiative calls for investing 70 million dollars a year in attracting and retaining teachers across the state. The focus will be on schools that have the most need for staff, says the Governor, allowing them to spend the money as appropriate…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. Governor Pritzker says that include signing bonuses, housing stipends, continuing education and tuition assistance. He’s asking the legislature to approve funding for the program in the new state budget.

(Springfield-jm) – A new rule by the Environmental Protection Agency could result in more demand for ethanol. Under the proposal, gasoline with higher blends of ethanol could be sold year-round in Illinois and other Midwestern states beginning next year. Nearly 40% of the corn grown in the Midwest is used to produce ethanol. Most gas sold in the U.S. is now blended with 10% ethanol, which is allowed throughout the year.

(Springfield-jm) – Preliminary numbers are in and it looks like a mild February wrapped up a weak winter in Illinois. The statewide average temperature last month was 35 degrees. That’s 4 degrees above normal says State Climatologist Trent Ford…

State Climatologist Trent Ford. Statewide average precipitation for February was about 3 inches, nearly an inch above normal. Most of that came in the form of rain. Ford says the outlook for spring leans toward colder and wetter than normal conditions.

(Champaign-jm) – A 19-year-old attempted to use a fake ID to get into a bar in Champaign. According to the University of Illinois Police, Alex Bzdula, of Chicago, attempted to use a fake ID to enter Kam's. When the door attendant refused entry, Bzdula took the business’s $500 identification scanner and threw it into the street.

(Urbana-jm) – A new community is coming to Urbana to help residents who are homeless and vulnerable to sickness. It's called "Hope Village." City Council approved $850,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds to cover the project. The purpose of the project is to support people who are in need of constant medical attention while having no shelter to protect themselves.

(Paxton–jc)  –  A new concert facility is coming to the city of Paxton. A group of local businessmen are renovating the NAPA building on State Street in the city. The building was gutted by a fire. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the group plans concerts, a meeting hall and more…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Danville-jm) – Vermilion County’s Supervisor of Assessment Matthew Long has announced he is running for county Recorder on the Republican side. Long has been Supervisor of Assessment since 2010. The current office holder, David Stone, has announced he will not be seeking re-election in 2024.

(Urbana–jc) WPXN news has learned that the Urbana School district building caught fire early this morning. Police say that fire started in a reception area of the building around 2 this morning. Details are sketchy. More information is found on line with WCIA news. 

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois has blocked the construction of new nuclear plants since 1987, but that could change this spring. A bipartisan group of state lawmakers wants to remove the moratorium on building nuclear generators and take advantage of new carbon-free technology. Democrats and Republicans on the House Public Utilities Committee said that the state should consider bringing more nuclear plants online to replace coal and natural gas facilities closing due to requirements in the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act passed in 2021.

(Springfield-jm) – Comptroller Susana Mendoza says the state’s rainy day fund is getting another boost. The stash is vital in times of emergency and just received a deposit of 320 million dollars. That brings the long-neglected fund up to more than 751 million, which is a big improvement says Comptroller Mendoza…

State Comptroller Susana Mendoza. Mendoza says ultimately, she would like to see the rainy day fund be seven and a half percent of the state’s current budget. That would be about three and a quarter billion dollars.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois National Guard says they have “open arms” for the 313, or about 2%, of the state’s service members who were barred from attending drills for not complying with President Joe Biden’s vaccine mandate now that the mandate has been rescinded. A spokesman for the guard says only one member was discharged for refusal during the six month period. How many medical and religious exemption requests were filed, accepted or denied wasn’t immediately available.

(Springfield-jm) – Legislation banning the use of single-use styrofoam food containers is advancing in the Illinois House. The main goal of prohibiting polystyrene food ware is to reduce pollution, says Glenview Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz…

State Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz of Glenview. The bill would be phased in, taking effect in January of 2024 for most restaurants and in 2025 for food pantries, soup kitchens and restaurants with less than half a million dollars in sales. It passed a House committee and now faces a vote on the House floor.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man was arrested in connection to an October 2021 shooting on North Prospect. Derrick Humphery, Jr., 32, was arrested following an investigation into a shooting that occurred on North Prospect on October, 24, 2021. Champaign Police responded to the area of Town Center Boulevard and North Prospect Avenue for a reported shooting with injuries. When they arrived, officers located a 24-year-old man inside a vehicle with a life-threatening gunshot wound to the head. He was transported to a hospital, where he received treatment. The victim continues to recover from his injuries.

(Urbana-jm) – The Urbana Police Department is asking for help in identifying a pair of thieves who stole from a store in the area. The two suspects were captured on the store’s security cameras as they were leaving. Both appeared to be White; one was wearing a black Reebok hoodie and khaki pants with holes in the knees and thighs, along with a face mask and baseball cap. The other was not masked, displaying a mustache, and was wearing a brown jacket, blue jeans and a black stocking cap.

(Champaign-jm) – A Pesotum man is facing up to 30 years in prison for arson. Brandon Schultz was charged with aggravated arson after admitting he set a fire at an apartment complex in Champaign to raise awareness about homelessness in the community.

(Washington-jm) – What does USDA see for dairy production, supply and prices for this year? Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Attorney General Kwame Raoul highlighted changes to the Military Veterans Assistance Act that improve oversight of county veterans assistance commissions and allow the Attorney General’s office to enforce the act. The Military Veterans Assistance Act was amended and passed by the Illinois General Assembly in May 2022 and established minimum funding requirements for county veterans assistance commissions  that are located throughout Illinois.

(Chicago-jm) – A major rehabilitation project on the Kennedy Expressway in Chicago kicks off March 20th. The estimated 150 million dollar project includes fixing 36 bridge structures, installing new signage and LED lights and pavement repair. Illinois Department of Transportation Spokesperson Maria Castaneda says this will be done over three construction seasons…

IDOT Spokesperson Maria Castaneda. I-DOT says commuters can expect travel delays and are urged to take public transportation if possible or alter their schedule to avoid peak hours.

(Undated-jm) – After above average temperatures for Illinois on Wednesday, a blast of winter will affect parts of the state on Friday. The National Weather Service reports the system will arrive tonight in the form of rain. During the day Friday, the rain will change over to snow for areas west of the Illinois River and north, affecting Chicago. Some areas may receive several inches of wet, heavy snow. 

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker is announcing nearly 60 million dollars in grants for local park and recreation projects in Illinois. The money will help fund 118 projects, such as extending a hiking trail and replacing an outdoor public pool in Peoria and building a new park in Benld (ben-eld) , says Governor Pritzker. He notes that 25 percent of grants are going to distressed communities…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. Funds are available through the OSLAD, or Open Land Space and Acquisition Development Program, and this is the largest round of grants in the program’s 36 year history.

(Paxton-jm) – A traffic violation in Ford County led to the discovery of 12.5 pounds of cocaine.  39-year-old Jose De Jesus Belendez is jailed in Paxton.  Ford County Sheriff's Police report a K-9 sniffed out the cocaine inside a duffle bag inside the car.  The contraband had a street value estimated at $150,000.

(Urbana-jm) – The Urbana Park District is asking for a million dollars in COVID relief funding from Champaign County. The park district wants to use the money for a new health and wellness center. Current ideas include indoor and outdoor recreational features, like baseball diamonds and basketball courts. The district says they’ll still be collecting feedback from the community about the project.

(Champaign-jm) – The 14th annual Prom Benefit for the Eastern Illinois Foodbank will be held on Saturday, March 4 at the Hilton Garden Inn from 7 – 11pm. This year’s goal is to raise 375,000 meals for food-insecure individuals and families in the Foodbank’s 18-county service territory. At any given time, more than 100,000 people in eastern Illinois, including 1 in 6 children, do not have access to enough nutritious food to support a healthy lifestyle.

(Washington-jm) – The U.S. beef cattle herd is already smaller than it was a year ago and one expert says it will get even smaller as the year wears on. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – The trial of four people accused of trying to bribe former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan to benefit ComEd will be delayed. A U.S. District judge announced Tuesday that the trial will begin March 14 for Madigan confidant Michael McClain, former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore, former City Club President Jay Doherty, and ex-ComEd lobbyist John Hooker. The four were indicted in 2020 accused of trying to influence Madigan by arranging for jobs and money for his associates in exchange for legislation beneficial for ComEd. No reason for the delay was given.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois  Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton testified before a U-S Senate committee Tuesday, urging passage of the Equal Rights Amendment. This has been a long road for the Equal Rights Amendment, an initial version was drafted nearly 100 years ago but is still not a part of the US Constitution. It’s time, says Lieutenant Governor Stratton…

Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. Stratton says while strides have certainly been made, women still earn less than men and reproductive rights continue to come under attack.

(Danville-jm) – A Vermilion County jury found Nicholas Trimble, 42, of Champaign guilty of six counts of first-degree murder in the murders of Rafael Arevalo, 26, and Omar Roman, 26, both from Danville. The two men were killed in September of 2017. Police responded to reports of gunfire at a home on Harvey Street in Danville where they found Arevalo and Roman already dead.

(Springfield-jm) – Consumers could see another rise in their utility bills. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City says Ameren is requesting the raise for both gas and electric customers…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Paxton–jc)  – A Rantou man was arrested Tuesday in connection with a shooting that occurred on Paxton’s north side on February 18th. Police say 18 year old Kaiden McCubbins was arrested by Northern Indiana state police around noon today. To date, four people have been arrested in connection with the Paxton shooting. Paxton Police, Ford County Sheriff’s police, Gibson City police and Illinois State police continue to investigate. Anyone with information is asked to call Ford County Crime Stoppers or one of the investigating agencies. More information is found on line with the Ford County Chronicle.

(Mahomet-jm) – A Mahomet man on bond for allegedly forging checks is facing new charges of the same. Matthew Bushman is facing additional forgery charges after police found a printer and equipment to create fake checks. Bushman allegedly tried to cash one of the fake checks at a bank to support his meth addiction.

(Springfield-jm) – County estimates are out for 2022 Illinois corn and soybeans. Counties with the highest average corn yields per acre were Stark, Woodford and Ogle, says Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. As for corn production…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. McLean County was also the top county for soybean production nationally, with 21 point 2 million bushels. Other high soybean producing counties in Illinois include Iroquois, Champaign, Livingston and LaSalle.

(Washington-jm) – Growers with different ag production goals and backgrounds offer their ideas of what new and improved market opportunities for them might look like. Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – An Illinois-based insurance company is once again raising rates. State Farm, headquartered in Bloomington, reportedly is raising rates for Illinois drivers by 6.5%. The hike will add about $60 a year for most policyholders. Last year, State Farm increased annual premiums by nearly $70. It is estimated the company insures about one in every three Illinois drivers. 

(Springfield-jm) – The State Department of Public Health is launching a new coalition to eliminate cases of Hepatitis in Illinois. The group is backed by a federal grant and will come up with strategies to address the rising number of Hepatitis B and C cases, says Public Health Spokesperson Mike Claffey…

State Public Health Spokesperson Mike Claffey. Claffey says viral Hepatitis is the leading cause of liver cancer and the most common reason for liver transplants.

(Urbana-jm) – A U of I student has been sentenced to 2nd chance probation for stealing from a campus student organization. Nubaira Kabir received the sentence after pleading guilty to stealing more than $10,000 from the Illinois Trial Team. Kabir was treasurer of the student organization.

(Paxton-jm) – The collapse of a wind turbine near Paxton is leading to concerns over a new law signed by Governor J-B Pritzker that takes away local ordinance control when it comes to wind and solar projects. Under the legislation signed by the Governor, counties can no longer have regulations more restrictive than the state. Counties have 120 days to change their ordinances to align with the state’s guidelines.

(Champaign-jm) – Parkland College’s truck driving program is changing locations. It’s moving from the Rural King lot in Champaign to the Atkins Group facility on Bloomington Rd. off of Mattis Ave. The new lot’s 75,000 sq. ft. will help expand the commercial driver’s license program to more students.

(Springfield-jm) – County estimates are out for 2022 Illinois corn and soybeans. The state really made a strong showing when it came to soybean production, says Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. Illinois had the top five counties in the U-S for corn production. McLean County, with nearly 71 million bushels of corn, was the leader last year, followed by Iroquois, Livingston, LaSalle and Champaign Counties.

(Washington-jm) – This year farm sector debt is predicted to grow faster than the value of farm sector assets. Gary Crawford reports…