(Undated-jm) – The National Weather Service has officially declared yesterday's severe storms as a derecho (deh-REY-cho). A derecho is defined as a widespread, long-lived wind storm that is associated with a band of rapidly moving showers or thunderstorms, with a damage swath of at least 240 miles and gusts of at least 58 mph. The storms left damage across the area with trees and power lines down. A 62 mph gust was reported in Paxton, Willard Airport reported a 79 mph gust while Lake of the Woods in Mahomet reported an 82 mph gust.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs is highlighting a 24 hour helpline for struggling vets. It’s called the Illinois Warrior Assistance Program, which offers a free and confidential service for vets facing a variety of issues. State Veterans’ Affairs Director Terry Prince says it’s a “warm helpline”...

State Veterans’ Affairs Director Terry Prince. Callers will be directed toward the appropriate resources with the help of a case manager. The number is 877-455-IWAP. Veterans can also visit the website: illinois warrior dot org.

(Springfield-jm) – Today, as required by the Illinois state fiscal year 2023 budget, the final deposit will be made into the Budget Stabilization Fund, and the state of Illinois’ Fiscal Year 2024 budget will deposit an additional $138 million. That will boost the fund to over $2 billion, the highest balance in state history. Illinois created the Budget Stabilization Fund in 2001 with the intent to use it as a ‘rainy-day’ fund for future fiscal emergencies or economic downturns.

(Melvin–jc)  It’s the Roots and Boots Country concert tonight at the Ford County Fair in Melvin. Tickets are available for the show says Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen…

Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen.

Roots and Boots with Sammy Kershaw, Aaron Tippin and Collin Raye and also Halle Kearns.The concert starts at 7-30pm

(Springfield-jm) – Drivers can expect to see increased police patrols through the 4th of July holiday. State and local police are boosting patrols to help keep the public safe out on the roads says Illinois Department of Transportation Spokesperson Paul Wappel…

IDOT Spokesperson Paul Wappel. Over last year’s 4th of July holiday in Illinois, there were 19 crashes leaving 20 people dead.

(Rantoul-jm) – Rantoul’s embattled Village Administrator was in court earlier this week to face domestic battery charges. Scott Eisenhauer is facing three counts that include domestic battery and unlawful interference with the reporting of domestic violence. He pleaded not guilty and requested a trial by jury. Eisenhauer was placed on administrative leave by the village of Rantoul immediately after his arrest. He submitted his resignation after his arraignment the following day, but the Village Board declined it pending the trial’s outcome. Eisenhauer is due back in court again next month.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County area home sales dipped lower for the second month in a row in May, while home sale prices continue to gain traction, according to the Champaign County Association of REALTORS®. May home sales totaled 250 units, down 19.09 percent from 309 sales in May 2022. The monthly median home sale price in May was $195,250 up 2.76 percent from $190,000 in May of 2022. The median is the typical market price where half the homes sold for more and half for less. The average home sale price for May 2023 was $251,185, up 15.79 percent from $216,925 in May 2022.

(Iroquois County–jc)  –Due to the current extreme drought conditions throughout Iroquois County, we are issuing a strong recommendation that all citizens refrain from any type of burning including the use of consumer grade fireworks until further notice. At the present time, conditions are very favorable for the outbreak of wildfires and other uncontrolled events. Any rainfall in the near future is not anticipated to have any effect on the drought conditions.The Fire Chiefs in the county, with the authority granted by Illinois Statute, have approved a ban to prohibit any type of burning including the use of consumer grade fireworks. This ban will remain in effect until drought conditions have abated sufficiently.

(Onarga–jc)  The Onarga 4th of July Celebration starts tomorrow night and runs through Sunday. On Saturday July 1st, it’s the annual parade and Onarga parade Organizer Paula Warmbir says this year’s parade has lots of entries so far…

Onarga parade Organizer Paula Warmbir. The parade will be live on WPXN on Saturday. It’s summer fun tour stop number 5. The broadcast is set for 11am on Saturday. 
 

(Melvin–jc)  –  What to eat when you go to the Ford County Fair in Melvin. What is your go to food. For some its Elephant Ears, for others it’s baked potato fries. For Owen Procter of Paxton it’s cotton candy…

Owen Procter of Paxton and Joel Cluver at the Ford County Fair on Thursday. 

(Washington-jm) – A familiar voice to many viewers and listeners is concluding an illustrious forty plus year career covering agriculture on television and radio. Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Board of Higher Education says Thursday's U-S Supreme Court ruling is a step backwards for racial equity at colleges and universities. The court essentially struck down affirmative action, saying race should not be a specific consideration in the college admissions process. Jose Garcia with the State Board of Higher Education says they are disappointed…

State Board of Education’s Jose Garcia. Governor J-B Pritzker issued a statement saying the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn affirmative action is a travesty.

(Chicago-jm) – The city of Chicago has spent more than $100 million to provide services to the thousands of migrants who arrived in the city since last August. The cost breakdown came during a hearing run by the City Council Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights. Of that total, over $72 million was spent on staffing the migrant shelters that are run by the city but rely on outside nonprofits for day-to-day operations. More than 10,000 migrants have arrived in the Chicago area since the crisis began 10 months ago.

(Chicago-jm) – The Illinois Tollway is gearing up for a busy 4th of July holiday weekend. The tollway expects more than 9 million vehicles to travel the system between today and the 4th of July. Spokesperson Dan Rozek says they are taking steps to help ease traffic headaches…

Illinois Tollway Spokesperson Dan Rozek. Rozek says they really want the public to slow down and not drive distracted, especially through work zones. Police are beefing up patrols for the weekend.

(Mahomet-jm) – A Mahomet man has been sentenced to 3 years in prison for damaging vehicles at a mobile home park in the village. Tyler Walker received the sentence after pleading guilty to 2 counts of criminal damage to property.

(gifford–jc)  –  The village of Gifford is celebrating the 4th of July on Saturday. Gifford Village President Adam Pannbacker says a 5-K starts the day and fireworks will conclude the day. A full day of events is set for Gifford…

Gifford Village President Adam Pannbacker. WPXN will be broadcasting the parade live on Saturday with Jason Madden. It’s Summer Fun Tour stop number 5

(Springfield-jm) – There’s a shortage of teachers in the state of Illinois, but that’s not the only industry needing help. The country is seeing a shortage of nurses. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City shares just how bad the shortage is in Illinois…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – Parkland College in partnership with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign will host a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Career Exploration and Symposium Wednesday, July 26 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on the University of Illinois campus in the Illini Union.

(Sibley-jm) – The Sibley Burr Oaks Area Tractor Club will be holding their annual tractor drive Saturday benefiting cancer research. Spokesperson Russ Tjarks talks about the route for this year's ride…

Sibley Burr Oaks Area Tractor Club Spokesperson Russ Tjarks. Registration is from 7:30-8:30 am at the Sibley Lake Bar with the start of the ride beginning shortly after.

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

Tonight at the Ford County Fair its Sammy Kershaw, Aaron Tippin and Collin Raye performing, Saturday, final night of the fair its the demolition derby.

Onarga will hold their 4th of July celebration at Durham Park tonight through Sunday. Tonight from 4- midnight its food and live music in the beer tent. Saturday its the parade at 11, food stands and vendors open at 11:30, inflatables and water slides from 12:30-4:30, horse and pony rides from 1-4, talent show at 1, kids games 2-5, Bingo 2-7 and fireworks at dusk. Sunday from 1-3 its the 11th annual Lazy Daze car and motorcycle show in downtown Onarga.

Rankin will hold their 4th of July celebration tonight and tomorrow. Tonight its the truck and tractor pulls. Saturday at 11 its the parade, car show 12-4:30, cake walk 2-3, kids water ball fight and games at 3 and fireworks at dusk.

The Sibley Burr Oaks Area Tractor Club will hold their annual tractor drive on Saturday.

The 2023 Gifford Community Celebration will take place on Saturday. A 5k takes place at 7 am, parade at 10 am, activities and food trucks at Werner Roessler Park from 11-3, car show 1-5, bags tournament at 3 and fireworks at Dusk.

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting the Paxton Masonic Lodge 416 on Saturday from 10-2.

Gibson City will hold their first Red, White and Tunes on Saturday from 3-11 in downtown Gibson City with live music, food and vendors.

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton is the latest community to announce fireworks are postponed. Late Wednesday night Paxton city officials made the decision to postpone the annual display to an undetermined date due to the dry weather. Activities at Pells Park will continue as planned. Hoopeston in Vermilion County has also postponed their fireworks portion of their 4th of July celebration. Check your event through social media for the latest changes in local celebrations. 

(Paxton–jc) – Local Health Department officials continue to monitor the air quality in the area due to the large Canadian fires. Ford County Public Health Department Administrator Lana Sample says they follow several websites and reporting agencies…

Ford County Health Department Administrator Lana Sample

(Rantoul-jm) – The Rantoul Police Department on Wednesday released reports, recordings of radio traffic, and body-worn camera video from an officer-involved shooting incident on June 7, 2023. Jordan A. Richardson, 18, of Champaign, was fatally shot by one bullet from Sergeant Jerry King’s duty weapon after he failed to comply with officers’ commands to drop his gun. According to the Champaign County Multi-Jurisdictional Investigative Team, led by the Illinois State Police, Richardson turned towards Sergeant King with the gun still in his hand. Rantoul Sergeant King fired two shots from his duty weapon after he feared he was going to be shot by Richardson. Also on Wednesday, Champaign County State’s Attorney Julia Rietz made a preliminary ruling that the officer’s use of force was justified based on the  independent investigation. With the ruling, Sergeant King will be removed from paid administrative leave status and return to full duty.

(Ludlow–jc)  The 4th of July will be celebrated in the village of Ludlow in Northern Champaign County Alpha Dog Laser tag for kids is set for 1pm, a parade steps off at 4-30. A street dance takes place from 5pm to 9pm with DJ Scott Lackey.

(Springfield-jm) – Poor air quality continues today in Illinois. Expect another day of hazy skies as smoke from Canadian wildfires permeates the state. Kim Biggs with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency says this can impact people with respiratory problems and even healthy, active individuals…

Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s Kim Biggs. She recommends checking the website: air now dot gov for current conditions in your area.

(Springfield-jm) – The challenge to Illinois’ gun and magazine ban, and similar bans on local levels, is set for oral arguments this morning in a federal appeals court. Cases from the Southern District were consolidated with cases from the Northern District. The state argues the banned semi-automatic firearms are dangerous and recent mass shootings require the bans. Plaintiffs say governments can not violate the Second Amendment by banning commonly owned firearms. A ruling isn’t expected for months.

(Mahomet-jm) – Fire investigators are looking into a fire in Mahomet after a mobile home burned to the ground Tuesday night. The fire happened near the intersection of Carroll and Piatt streets just before midnight. Crews from the Cornbelt Fire Protection District arrived to see the home fully engulfed in flames. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the investigation.

(Rantoul-jm) – Community members came together in Rantoul last night to bridge the gap in divisive politics. WPXN’s Jason Madden was there and has the details…

(Undated-jm) – Circle K, is back with another Fuel Day! After a successful celebrated National Fuel Day, the global convenience store chain is cooling down gas prices in the American Heartland just in time for Fourth of July weekend festivities. Circle K will host a Fuel Day Pop-Up, today, at more than 300 stores throughout Illinois, Iowa and Missouri, customers will save 40 cents per gallon of fuel at the pump between 3 and 6 p.m.?

(Washington-jm) – A lack of moisture in many parts of the Corn Belt is leading to increasing concern for how this year’s corn crop might fare during the remainder of the growing season. Rod Bain reports…

(Melvin–jc)  On the schedule today at the Ford County Fair in Melvin include two tractor pulls. One for adults and another for kids, says Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen…

Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen.

WPXN will be broadcasting live over the noon hour today as part of our Summer Fun Tour 20-23.

(Paxton-jm) – Fireworks will not be going up in Paxton, at least not on July 4th. The city announced late Wednesday the annual fireworks display is postponed due to the dry weather. The annual Old Fashioned 4th of July at Pells Park will continue as planned with added activities.

(Rankin-dg)-Illinois State Police investigated a fatal accident that happened 5 miles south of Rankin Tuesday evening. The accident involved a stolen car from Rantoul that claimed the lives of three people. A stolen Toyota Camry ran a stop sign at Vermillion county road 3550 east near Route 49 and hit a jeep on the driver’s side. A report from Rantoul police said the car had been stolen on Monday and was spotted in Rantoul. The car sped off when an officer gave chase. Vermilion County Coroner Jane McFadden identified the two people in the Jeep as 19 year old Joseph Stallone and 17 year old Keegynn Martinek of Paxton. The identity of the driver of the Camry has not yet been released.

(Springfield-jm) – Some new laws and increases take effect July 1st. Starting Saturday, the one percent sales tax on groceries returns and a delayed three cent increase in the motor fuel tax will be implemented. Putting off these fees for a while helped families struggling with rising prices, says Governor J-B Pritzker…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. A few new laws take effect on the 1st. One marks September 17th, Constitution Day, a commemorative holiday at school. A second will help youth leaving the care of the Department of Children and Family Services locate former foster parents and siblings. 

(Champaign–jc)  It’s a normal mix of corn and soybeans on farms throughout Champaign County for crop year 20-23. Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady says its a 50-50 split, but rain is needed…

Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady

(Undated-jm) – Wildfire smoke from Canada is lingering around Illinois longer than expected. An Air Quality Alert has been extended for many parts of Illinois through Thursday. The alert was originally supposed to come to an end at midnight Wednesday. Those with heart or lung disease, older adults and children should avoid strenuous outdoor activities. By Friday, air quality should be back to normal.

(Urbana-jm) – A building at a recycling center in Urbana was reduced to ruins on Tuesday night when it caught fire. The fire happened at Mack’s Twin City Recycling Center. It’s the third time firefighters have responded to a fire at the facility. The building that caught fire Tuesday night was the replacement of a building that caught fire once before. The cause is under investigation.

(Washington-jm) – USDA's upcoming report on acreage will give us more than just what farmers have planted this season. Gary Crawford reports…

(Undated-jm) – If you're struggling to pay rent you're not alone, a new report is out about the affordability of rental housing in the state. According to the report, affordable housing in the state is nearly out of reach and experts say more than half of households are one financial problem away from becoming homeless. The average full-time worker in Illinois will have to make nearly $25 an hour in order to afford a modest two-bedroom apartment. The report said even in more affordable counties, the lowest amount a person needs to make is close to $15 an hour. According to the report, if you make the state's minimum wage of $13 an hour you would need two full-time jobs or work 76 hours a week to afford a two-bedroom apartment.

(Springfield-jm) – It was five years ago this week that a major U.S. Supreme Court ruling involving an Illinois case changed the landscape for public employee unions around the country. Mark Janus worked for the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services when he objected to paying fees to a union because doing so constitutes paying for political speech with which he disagrees. At the time, under Illinois law, state government could require its employees to pay fees to a government union as a condition of employment.  Janus v. AFSCME eventually made it to the nation’s highest court. Janus was represented by the National Right to Work Foundation and the Liberty Justice Center. In a 5-4 ruling on June 27, 2018, the justices declared that forced union dues violated the First Amendment rights of Janus and other government employees. The high court concluded workers were free to choose whether to pay the unions in their places of work.

(Washington-jm) – Condition ratings for the soybean crop continue to worsen. Gary Crawford reports…

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana woman is facing attempted first-degree murder charges after trying to run over a man with her car. Norell Williams, 23 was arrested after an Urbana police report said Williams was at a park in that city with a man she knew and the two of them were arguing. The man then got out of the car and said he was going to walk home. Witnesses told police she hit him with the car, then got out and hit him with a golf club, and tried to hit him a second time with the car. Williams's bond was set at $150,000 and is due back in court on July 29.

(Paxton–jc)  Preventative maintenance is on the minds of Paxton City leaders. The city uses two main wells for water in the city. The last time wells were checked for proper maintenance was in 20-10. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says city leaders are looking at costs to check out the wells, for maintenance purposes…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Armstrong-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced that repairs to the Illinois 49 bridge over the Union Pacific railroad north of U.S. 136, near Armstrong in Vermilion County, begins August 7. The project involves repairs to pier and deck concrete and will require lane closures for the duration of the project, which is expected to be complete by early December.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois state Representative Chris Miller is determined to finish what he insists Republican lawmakers have started when it comes to bringing change to Springfield. The 69-year-old Miller plans to run for reelection in 2024, and he says he is doing everything that’s required to make that happen after Democrats controlling the legislature and congressional redistricting process drew maps to box Miller out of his 110th District.  As chairman of the Illinois Freedom Caucus, Miller adds he’s not about to take no for an answer when it comes to bringing about the level of change in Springfield he’s convinced is needed. Miller is the husband of U-S Representative Mary Miller.

SPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation Tuesday that will dramatically alter the health insurance market in Illinois. The measures establish a state-based exchange for policies sold under the Affordable Care Act and give the Illinois Department of Insurance the authority to modify or reject proposed rate increases. Under the Affordable Care Act, people who are not eligible for Medicaid but who do not have access to affordable health insurance through their employer can buy subsidized policies through an online exchange operated by either the federal government or their state government. Illinois, however, was among the states that chose not to set up its own exchange. Instead, it pays an annual fee so Illinois residents can use the federal exchange. That will change under House Bill 579, which calls on the Department of Insurance to set up a state-based exchange that will be fully operational by 2026.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Board of Education has released the first draft of the Illinois Literacy Plan, which officials said will provide a comprehensive roadmap to improve literacy outcomes for Illinois students. The board invites the public to share feedback on the plan online and during a statewide listening tour. The tour begins next week in Springfield, followed by stops in Chicago, Rockford and Mount Vernon, as well as a virtual event.

(Washington-jm) – Condition ratings for the corn crop are dropping week by week to the lowest in decades. Gary Crawford reports…

(Champaign-jm) – A warning from the city of Champaign as the Fourth of July holiday approaches. With summer holiday celebrations increasing since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, Champaign Police and Fire are making sure they are on top of illegal firework usage in the city in hopes to keep residents safe.In Champaign, having or lighting illegal fireworks could land you in trouble with the law. The first offense comes with a $205 fine, any following offenses will require a court date where fines could be increased. The city of Hoopeston has canceled its fireworks for the holidays and fireworks in Buckley have also been postponed. 

(Sibley-jm) – The Sibley Burr Oaks Area Tractor club will hold their annual tractor drive Saturday. Spokesperson Russ Tjarks talks about how they got started with the tractor drive…

Sibley Burr Oaks Area Tractor Club Spokesperson Russ Tjarks.

(Hoopeston-jm) – 32-year-old Jordan David-Ervin of Hoopeston was jailed in Vermilion County after fleeing from Hoopeston officers.  Police attempted a stop in the 700-block of N. Market Street for a traffic violation.  The vehicle fled when the emergency lights were activated.  Police identified the driver and several tickets were mailed to Davis-Ervin.  Charges include Aggravated Fleeing or Attempting to Allude, No Valid Driver's License, Driving with a Suspended Registration, Speeding, Disobeying a Stop Sign, and Driving without Lights when required.  Davis-Ervin was ordered to appear in Vermilion County Court.

(Paxton–jc)  –  Fireworks displays are in question at some locations while others are taking additional precautions to celebrate the 4th of July safely. In Paxton, the celebration is at Bixby park and a specific traffic pattern has been set up to view the annual fireworks. City of Paxton Officials, those also with the Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce continue to look at the weather as we get closer to the 4th. Chamber event spokesperson Alan Meyer says stay close to announcements on social media and radio…

Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce event Spokesperson Alan Meyer. 

(Melvin-dg)-The Ford County Fair Queen pageant was held last night in Melvin. Maci Kingren was crowned the new queen. She is a 2022 graduate of Paxton-Buckley-Loda High School. Isabelle Kinder was named 1st runner up and Miss Congeniality. She is a 2023 graduate of Paxton-Buckley-Loda High School.

(Springfield-jm) – Customers of the four gas utilities with pending rate cases – Ameren Illinois, Nicor Gas, Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas – could pay between $60 and $140 more for gas per year on average if the ICC approves their requested rates. Infrastructure upgrades and maintenance are typically a major factor in rate increases, and for about a decade, gas utilities recouped their costs on those projects through a formula-based process that allowed them to collect – and routinely increase – a customer fee without having to go through an 11-month rate case.  

(Springfield-jm) – A credit rating agency says Illinois’ “poorly funded” pensions will continue to stress state and local government budgets. S&P Global Ratings didn’t announce a rating action, but in a report announced Monday, it said a shrinking population and weak demographic trends alongside growing health care costs will add to the funding issues. Around 1 of every 5 tax dollars the state takes in will go to fund pensions for the next fiscal year.The Illinois Auditor General pegs Illinois’ unfunded pension liability at around $140 billion. All five state funds combined are 42.4% funded.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker signed dozens of bills into law this month. Here’s a few you may not have heard about yet. Some of the new laws require insurance coverage for preventative liver screenings and medically necessary compression sleeves. There’s also one that requires new construction and single family homes and apartment buildings to include basic infrastructure for electric vehicle charging stations. Representative Robyn Gabel of Evanston sponsored the bill in the House…

State Representative Robyn Gabel of Evanston. Other new laws will help survivors of human trafficking get any criminal records expunged and let podiatrists give basic vaccinations to adult patients.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District will soon purchase ten hybrid buses thanks to a federal grant program. The district was awarded $6,635,394 from the Federal Transit Administration. Champaign-Urbana transit will purchase ten 40-foot diesel-electric hybrid buses with this $6 million grant. The Low and No-Emission competitive grant program provides transit agencies support to modernize their fleet and purchase new vehicles that emit lower emissions. In May, the transit district retired the final diesel buses from its fleet. The old buses were 60 feet long and were in operation since 2001. Around 98% of Champaign-Urbana's bus fleet is comprised of low-emission diesel-electric hybrid buses. The remaining 2% consists of no-emission electric buses.

(Paxton–jc)  Paxton Firefighters were called to the scene of a dryer fire Monday. A fire broke out at 11-16 Roselawn Drive in the city. No word on damages to the home was provided. 

(Gifford-jm) – A road closure will be necessary for the replacement of the bridge over Spoon River. County Road 32, two miles south of Gifford, between 2600N and 2700N will be closed beginning today. Bridge replacement construction is expected to take up to five months. There will be no marked detour.

(Washington-jm) – The Agriculture Secretary provided an update on ongoing consultations to resolve a dispute over Mexico's efforts to limit genetically modified corn imports from the U.S. Rod Bain reports…

(Melvin–jc)  Numbers of projects and animals to be featured at the Ford County Fair in Melvin continue to grow this year. Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen says the participants are ready for all the judging…

Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen

(Springfield-jm) – The state-run All Kids Health Insurance program has been providing insurance to those over the eligible age of 18, which cost taxpayers nearly $1.2 million. An Auditor General report released last week shows issues with late filings, a misclassification of kids' immigration status and allowing over-age persons to participate.  While the report notes beginning in March 2020, enrollees that were over the allowable age were allowed to maintain coverage because of COVID-19, auditors identified duplicate enrollees during fiscal year 2019 through fiscal 2022. The report identified 1,328 enrollees over the allowable age for enrollment in the All Kids program from July 2018 through March 2020. These enrollees received 11,011 services totaling $1,192,008 after the month of their 19th birthday. For perspective, the total cost for the program in fiscal 2022 was $153 million. The report found that enrollees were potentially misclassified as undocumented during fiscal 2019 through fiscal 2022 and identified a total of 5,513 undocumented enrollees that were misclassified.

(Springfield-jm) – President Joe Biden will be in Chicago Wednesday to tout his economic agenda and to raise money for his reelection campaign. Some are skeptical the president will ease concerns about the economy. Friday, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre announced Wednesday’s visit with more details forthcoming. She said Biden will speak at a public event about what she called “a major address on Bidenomics.” The inflation rate jumped from 1.4% to 7% after Biden took office in 2021. For 2022, it remained at 6.5%. So far for 2023, the rate is 4%. Republicans have criticized the Biden Administration's economic policies.

(Springfield-jm) – Fireflies are emerging and a horticulture expert at the University of Illinois Extension has all sorts of facts about the blinking bugs. Fireflies, or lightning bugs, are actually beetles that spend most of their lives in the larvae stage, preying on slugs, caterpillars and insects in the soil. The Extension’s Ken Johnson says once they emerge as adults, they only live for a couple of weeks. When fireflies light up, that’s their version of speed dating…

U of I Extension Horticulturist Ken Johnson. Johnson says there are more than 20 different species of lightning bugs in Illinois, many with their own flashing pattern. The most prevalent species in the state is called The Big Dipper.

(Urbana-jm) – A new study has found that Illinois teens who live in ZIP codes that have medical cannabis dispensaries are less likely to use the drug. This new research comes from a study done at the University of Illinois in 2018, two years before recreational marijuana was legalized. It surveyed more than 10,000 teens in grades 8 through 12 across the state. It found that 18.3% of youths living in Illinois ZIP codes with medical dispensaries reported they used cannabis during the prior year, compared to 22.4% of those who lived in zip codes without these businesses. The University of Illinois is already gearing up for its next survey, which could show the impact of recreational dispensaries on marijuana use among adolescents. They will be starting the Illinois Youth Survey in January 2024.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man is facing weapon and drug charges. Zamarlon Parker is charged with having a loaded gun as a felon and cannabis after a state trooper stopped Parker's car in Champaign for driving with no headlights on.

(Iroquois County-jm) – A young Gilman man was arrested in Watseka for Harboring a Runaway.  Mauricio Moreno was stopped by Watseka Police.  An investigation led to police learning a juvenile listed in records as a runaway.  Then, Iroquois County deputies learned the runaway had been staying with Moreno for the last month.  Sheriff's Police also arrested a Gilman woman for Violation of an Order of Protection.  23-year-old Bayleah Moore had an Order of Protection against her.  Deputies were called to the 300-block of E. 3rd Street in Gilman where a caller reported the alleged violation.  Moore was being held at the Iroquois County Jail for Violation of Order of Protection. In a separate case, Sheriff's Police arrested 56-year-old Mark James of Buckley following a disturbance in the 400-block of E. Main Street in Buckley. James was taken into custody for Aggravated Assault.

(Washington-jm) – The Agriculture Secretary believes the recently announced Renewable Fuel Standard for the next three years should be considered in context with other efforts to advance biofuel production. Rod Bain reports…

(Paxton–jc)  Paxton City leaders will continue to look at non-union salaries when they meet in an adjourned session tonight. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the council has been looking at options…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Springfield-jm) – President Joe Biden will travel to Illinois Wednesday to deliver a speech on the economy. The White House said Biden’s address in Chicago will be on “Bidenomics,” which is the president’s “vision for growing the economy from the middle out and the bottom up.” While in Chicago, Biden will also participate in a campaign reception. He has been traveling to Democratic strongholds for fundraisers.

(Pesotum-jm) – Illinois State Police will be conducting distracted driving enforcement patrols this week. WPXN’s Jason Madden reports…

(Paxton-jm) – Wi-fi will be coming to downtown Paxton. Paxton Main Street was awarded a nearly $30,000 grant from T-Mobile, Friday evening during WCIA’s visit for Our Town Paxton.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign Police were dispatched to the 2500 block of W. Springfield Avenue at 11:08 p.m. Saturday, for a report of a Shooting with Injuries. On-scene, officers located a 34-year-old man from Champaign with a potentially life-threatening gunshot wound. The victim was transported to a local hospital by ambulance where he was initially listed in critical condition. He later succumbed to his injuries. The initial investigation indicated that the victim had recently parked his vehicle in the parking lot of an apartment complex. Shortly after exiting his vehicle, a suspect approached the victim and fired shots at him. The victim was struck by gunfire and ran to a nearby apartment. Following the shooting, the subject firing the weapon fled the area. No other injuries have been reported in this incident, but damage has been reported to a nearby building.

(Paxton-jm) – Strong winds Sunday caused power outages around the area. About 350 Ameren Illinois customers in Paxton lost power after a large tree branch fell on a power line at the intersection of Pells and American. Power was restored after about 4 hours.

(Melvin–jc)  The Roots and Boots concert at the Ford County Fair is set for Friday evening. The Fair opened in Melvin yesterday. Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen says preparation for this year’s concert started the day of the show one year ago…

Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen. Becky Puetz will have a facebook live broadcast tonight for the queen pageant and WPXN will be broadcasting live each day at noon from Tuesday through Friday at the fair in Melvin. 

(Urbana-jm) – Residents in Urbana might see a 450% increase on one of their monthly bills next year. The city of Urbana’s Public Works Department is looking to improve and better maintain their Stormwater Asset Management Program, also known as SWAMP. Though this means residents may go from paying just $5.82 a month to $27 a month. Urbana Public Works plans to keep the survey open until the end of July and then based on results make a recommendation to the city council. Once the city council approves an increase it will take effect on January 1st, 2024. Champaign’s stormwater fee was increased 3.5% last year with most residents paying around $6. Their fees will be reviewed again next summer.

(Washington-jm) – Friday's USDA cattle feedlot report has some unexpected numbers in it. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – An Illinois lawmaker wants to limit the time the General Assembly votes on legislation. State Representative Mike Coffey said he plans to introduce a bill that would limit legislative votes to between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. He said major pieces of legislation, like the state budget, should not be voted on after hours, because it is important for the public to know what’s going on at the Capitol at all times. Coffey plans to introduce the bill during the fall veto session.

(Springfield-jm) – The newest unemployment data has been released. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett has the latest…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Rural Rantoul-jm) – Firefighters from multiple departments battled a barn fire north of Rantoul Friday afternoon. The blaze happened in a barn near 1600 east 3200 north. No word on what caused the fire.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign firefighters battled two fires Friday evening. The first fire was reported just before 5 in a 4th floor apartment of a 5 story apartment building on Columbia Avenue. About an hour later, crews were called to a patio fire at an apartment on Mattis Avenue. No injuries were reported in either fire and the causes of both have not yet been determined.

(Watseka-jm) – The Watseka Police Department says they are investigating after they were dispatched to multiple automated bomb threats at businesses Friday. Businesses were evacuated and searched with the help of the Iroquois County Sheriff’s office.

(Paxton–jc)  –  Motor Fuel Tax monies and where to spend them in the city is a topic for Paxton City leaders when they meet in an adjourned session on Tuesday. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says some dollars will also be spent to oil and chip some streets…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold. The council meets in an adjourned session on Tuesday night. 

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign woman faces up to 15 years in prison for drug possession. Alyssa Barton is facing drug charges after police found 23 grams of meth in her possession. If convicted she faces probation to 4-15 years in prison.

(Washington-jm) – The USDA is putting more money into projects designed to boost U.S. fertilizer production. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Overstating its budget, failure to properly audit license requirements and other reporting issues are all listed in an Illinois Auditor General report of the Illinois State Board of Education. The recently released audit looks at ISBE over the last two years up to June 30, 2022, and in total, had 15 findings and three repeat findings that ISBE did not have proper controls in place to monitor the requirements regarding professional educator license renewal. According to the audit, ISBE also improperly included a $305 million future appropriation for the Education Assistance Fund as a liability in a different fund. As a result, the fund's liability and expenses were overstated by $305 million. According to the audit, ISBE should have performed random audits of licensees to verify their fulfillment of the professional development hours required to maintain their licenses. The audit states that ISBE has agreed with the Auditor General's findings and said that they are working on addressing these issues.

(Springfield-jm) – Drought conditions continue to spread across Illinois. The latest U-S Drought Monitor is out and State Climatologist Trent Ford says it’s not looking good…

State Climatologist Trent Ford. Ford says although the June outlook has called for average rainfall, that just hasn’t happened. He notes that July will be pivotal in seeing how bad drought conditions are going to get in Illinois.The last major statewide drought was in 2012. All of WPXN listening area is under moderate drought conditions, while some area communities are issuing burn bans.

(Melvin–jc)  The 20-23 Ford County Fair starts on Sunday morning at the fairgrounds in Melvin. Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen says everyone is excited about this year’s run from the Queen pageant to the Roots and Boots concert next Friday night…

Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen

WPXN will be broadcast live all next week from the Fair including a facebook live at the 20-23 Ford County Fair Pageant on Monday night. 

(Champaign-jm) – A second woman has pleaded guilty to her involvement in the purchase of a firearm that was used to kill Champaign Police Officer Christopher Oberheim in May 2021. Ashantae Corruthers of Indianapolis, could face up to 25 years in prison when she is sentenced in November. Corruthers admitted to conspiring with Regina Lewis, to purchase and transfer a gun to Darion M. Lafayette, who could not legally purchase a firearm due to his status as a convicted felon. Regina Lewis, of Normal, pleaded guilty in May and has been scheduled for sentencing on October 2, 2023. The gun that Corruthers purchased was later used by Lafayette to shoot and kill Champaign Police Officer Christopher Oberheim. Oberheim’s, partner Jeff Creel was injured in the shooting as well and shot Lafayette.

(Roberts-jm) – Roberts Fun Day is this Saturday with lots of activities including kids games and live music. Another activity that’s expected to bring a lot of people is the parade, says Spokesperson Cassie Ehman…

Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Cassie Ehman.

The day starts with a breakfast at 8am. 

(Ford County-jm) – Ford County property tax bills are delayed again. It’s the third time in four years bills have been delayed. Usually the bills are mailed in late May and due in early July. There’s no word on when they will be sent out.

(Rantoul-jm) – Sexual assault charges against a Rantoul man have been dismissed. Prosecutors dismissed predatory criminal sexual assault charges against Jorge Elvir-Reyes. They declined to say why they dismissed the charges. Elvir-Reyes has prior child pornography and sex abuse cases.

(Paxton–jc)  Local television station Channel 3 will be live in Paxton later on today. Its the station’s “our town” series. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says its a great opportunity to showcase the improvements in the downtown area and more…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Champaign–jc)  Yes, our crops need some good rain. The condition of crops in Champaign County continues to decline. Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady says crop stress has started…

Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady

(Springfield-jm) – The state-run All Kids Health Insurance program has been providing insurance to those over the eligible age of 18, which cost taxpayers nearly $1.2 million. An Auditor General report released this week shows issues with late filings, a misclassification of kids' immigration status and allowing over-age persons to participate. While the report notes beginning in March 2020, enrollees that were over the allowable age were allowed to maintain coverage because of COVID-19, auditors identified duplicate enrollees during fiscal year 2019 through fiscal 2022. The report identified 1,328 enrollees over the allowable age for enrollment in the All Kids program from July 2018 through March 2020. These enrollees received 11,011 services totaling $1,192,008 after the month of their 19th birthday. For perspective, the total cost for the program in fiscal 2022 was $153 million. The report found that enrollees were potentially misclassified as undocumented during fiscal 2019 through fiscal 2022 and identified a total of 5,513 undocumented enrollees that were misclassified.

(Springfield-jm) – Drought conditions continue to spread across Illinois. The June outlook called for average rainfall, but that hasn’t been the case. About 30 percent of the state, mostly central and northeastern Illinois, is in severe drought. The rest is considered either abnormally dry or in a moderate drought. The dry weather is taking its toll on crops, says State Climatologist Trent Ford…

State Climatologist Trent Ford. Ford says the big concern is if the dry weather continues into July and August, which could ruin crops and affect water sources in Illinois. He notes that these are the worst drought conditions statewide since 2012. Ford, Iroquois, Champaign and Vermilion Counties are in moderate drought conditions and some area communities are issuing burn bans.

(Urbana-jm) – Urbana Police are asking for the community’s help in identifying and locating a person who used two credit cards without permission from their owner. Police shared on social media that the person found a misplaced wallet and then made multiple purchases with the credit cards that were inside. The person was seen on security cameras wearing jeans, a gray sweatshirt and a white hat.

(Springfield-jm) – A program to help keep Illinois students going to college stay in the state is becoming permanent. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(St. Joseph-jm) – A St. Joseph man will spend nearly two decades behind bars for sexually assaulting a child in 2021. Joshua Rodriguez was sentenced to 19 years in prison after pleading guilty to 2 counts of criminal sexual assault of a child under the age of 13. Rodriguez had been charged with 5 counts of criminal sexual assault of a child.

(Iroquois County-jm) – Iroquois County has issued a county wide burn ban until further notice due to dry weather. No burning of garbage or brush will be allowed for the foreseeable future. The city of Gilman has a town wide ban and Hoopeston in Vermilion County has also issued a similar ban

(Gilman–jc)  With the recent drought conditions, area crops continue to deteriorate. Ford Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager David Treece says the season started off well, but then no-rain…

Ford Iroquois Farm Bureau Manager David Treece

(Rantoul–jc)  Well, who will get “braggin’ Rights?” The Rantoul based Carter Foundation and Community Foundation is hosting several events today through Sunday in the village.  A 5-K is set for today. Other events to support the local foundation include, mini-golf, kickball and a youth baseball tournament. 

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

The 2023 Roberts Fun day will be held on Saturday. Craft and vendors 8-4, inflatables 9-5,  parade at 11, cake walk 12:30-1:30, touch a truck 12:30-3, bags tournament 4-7 and live music 7-10.

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting the Loda Fireworks on Saturday from 10-2.

The 2023 Ford County Fair takes place June 25-July 1st in Melvin. On June 25th its the jackpot breeding gilt show. On the 26th its the queen pageant, on the 27th its the talent show. The 28th is family night with $10 armbands, on the 29th its the Illiana truck and tractor pull, on the 30th its Sammy Kershaw, Aaron Tippin and Collin Raye performing, on the final night of the fair its the demolition derby.

(Springfield-jm) – The State Board of Education is extending the deadline to apply for preschool grants. The goal is to address preschool “deserts,” where local children don’t have access to quality early education. Grants are available to daycares, not for profit groups, schools and more to expand or create preschool opportunities says State Schools Superintendent Tony Sanders…

State Schools Superintendent Tony Sanders. The deadline to apply for the grant funding has been moved to June 30th. More information is available online at: isbe dot net. That’s isbe dot net.

(Springfield-jm) – An expected dip in sports wagering in Illinois in April wasn’t as bad as most thought. Figures released by the Illinois Gaming Board showed sports betting sites took in total bets just shy of $900 million. That is compared to over $1 billion in March, but a dip was expected because of no marquee sporting events in April. Illinois took in over $14 million in sports betting taxes in April, surpassing Pennsylvania at $13 million. Sports books in Illinois were taxed at an effective rate of 17.7% in April, compared to nearly 26% in Pennsylvania. Through the first four months of the year, Illinois ranks second in betting handle at over $3.9 billion, second in revenue at over $340 million, and third in taxes collected from sports betting with over $56 million collected by the state.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Housing Development Authority is awarding 26 million dollars in federal tax credits to build affordable housing developments across the state. The credits are sold to investors to generate capital for the18 affordable housing projects in 12 Illinois counties, says Spokesperson Andrew Field…

Illinois Housing Development Authority Spokesperson Andrew Field. Developments receiving the credits are located in communities like Addison, Northbrook, Joliet, Chicago, Champaign, Peoria, Wood River, Harrisburg and more.

(Hoopeston-jm) – A Milford man is facing meth charges in Vermilion County. Robert Deaton was arrested by Hoopeston police after the car he was riding in was stopped for a traffic violation. Deaton was found to be in possession of several grams of meth and taken to the Vermilion County Jail.

(Urbana-jm) – A recent University of Illinois graduate is on her way home after she was attacked in Germany last week. German police said Kelsey Chang was released from the hospital Sunday. Five days earlier, Chang and her friend, another U of I grad, were thrown off a cliff while visiting a castle in Bavaria. Chang survived the 165-foot fall down a slope, while her friend did not survive.

(Champaign-jm) – Job training services through East Central Illinois workNet are available to those attending classes at Parkland College or other postsecondary institution this Fall. Qualifying individuals who apply may receive a Career Coach and a scholarship that covers tuition payments, books, fees, and support services up to $16,000. Applications can be submitted through July 28, 2023, online at www.ECIWork.net/apply. The scholarship can also be used for open enrollment programs at approved training providers.

(Springfield-jm) – Cases of the West Nile Virus are popping up around the state. So far no human cases have been reported but the Illinois Department of Public Health has some tips to reduce your risk says 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Paxton–jc)  Local television station Channel 3 will be in Paxton on Friday as part of their “Our Town” series. The event is set for 4pm to 7pm in downtown Paxton. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says activities are planned and a special announcement is set for 5pm…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Springfield-jm) – Federal and state National Guard leaders are discussing the challenges of recruiting troops. Retention rates at the Illinois Army and Air National Guards are pretty good, but it’s getting people to sign up that is sometimes a struggle. Both branches rely on current members to spread the word, and focus on the summer months to bring in recent graduates. Technical Sergeant Stephen Graves with the Air National Guard says they want potential recruits to know that serving can fit into their busy lives…

Illinois Air National Guard Technical Sergeant Stephen Graves. At the federal level, military leaders say this is the most challenging hiring environment they’ve seen, with the Marines coming the closest to recruitment goals.

(Springfield-jm) – With Illinois’ unemployment rate now tied for fourth worst in the country and the state having only added in the neighborhood of 2,500 jobs in May, Republican state Senator Steve McClure says there have been warning signs for years.U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that the state’s overall unemployment rate dipped to 4.1% in May, down one-tenth of a percent from the month before, but McClure argues that hardly tells the story. As it is, data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that 85% of Illinois communities lost population in 2022, with the losses essentially stretching to every area of the state. Overall, the state lost upwards of 105,000 residents, with the Internal Revenue Service adding that primarily working-age adults took in the neighborhood of $11 billion in wealth with them. In May, the construction (2,400) and manufacturing (1,700) sectors suffered the greatest losses, while the government added the most jobs at 2,600. A series of recent surveys show 51% of residents insist they would leave the state if given the opportunity with the biggest reason being high taxes.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is promoting legislation that provides regular driver’s licenses to non-citizen residents. Currently, undocumented immigrants can get a temporary visitor driver’s license, which has a purple bar at the top that reads “TVDL”. Under the bill, they would instead be issued a standard license. Secretary Giannoulias says this will end the stigma for non-citizen drivers….

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. Unlike the TVDL, the new version will serve as a form of identification which can be used for things like filling a prescription or renting an apartment. The bill still needs to be signed into law by the Governor.

(Champaign-jm) – As a result of population growth captured in the 2020 U.S. Census, the Champaign City Council is considering adjusting the boundaries of the City Council Districts in order to balance the city’s population across the five districts. Members of the public are invited to participate in the redistricting process by submitting redistricting map proposals through the City’s new public engagement website – engagechampaign.org. Redistricting proposals will be accepted through July 19, 2023.

(Champaign-jm) – State Senator Paul Faraci is inviting local residents to ask questions about state resources and provide feedback on legislative priorities at his upcoming Coffee and Conversation event on June 29. The event will be held Thursday, June 29 from 8 – 9 a.m. at the Espresso Royale Stadium Plaza, located at 1411 S. Neil St. in Champaign.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man is wanted on robbery charges and Crime Stoppers is looking for the public’s help in finding him. Officials said the wanted man is 19-year-old Chance Brewer. Brewer was arrested and charged with robbery in August of last year. At an initial court appearance, he pleaded not guilty and requested a trial by jury. The following April, however, Brewer failed to appear for a pretrial hearing. A warrant was issued for his arrest and he’s been on the run ever since. Brewer is described as being Black, exactly six feet in height and weighing 160 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes.

(Roberts-jm) – Roberts will be holding their 1st fun day this Saturday. Activities include a parade, kids games, live music and more. Spokesperson Cassie Ehman says its an event to bring people together and have fun…

Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Cassie Ehman.

WPXN will be stopping by live on Saturday with our Summer Fun Stop number 2 at the Saturday parade in Roberts.

(Springfield-jm) – A state lawmaker is looking to make sure the General Assembly operates in the daylight. Representative Mike Coffey of Springfield plans to introduce legislation to limit final legislative votes on bills to between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. He says big pieces of legislation, such as the state budget, should not be approved after midnight when most people are asleep. Coffey intends to introduce the legislation in the fall veto session.

(Washington-jm) – Illinois is receiving nearly $8 million to support background checks for gun sales. U-S Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth announced the state is receiving  $7,904,683 in Department of Justice awards to assist state record repositories and state courts in sharing eligible National Instant Criminal Background Check System records to improve the firearm background check system in Illinois.

(Springfield-jm) – Another week of very little rain has led to a decline in Illinois crop conditions. This past week was cooler and drier than normal, with rainfall more than an inch below average for this time of year. That’s left just 33 percent of soybeans and 36 percent of corn in good to excellent condition. Statistician Mark Schleusener looks at the winter wheat crop…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. The first cutting of alfalfa hay is nearly complete and four percent of the second cutting is done. Average statewide topsoil moisture dropped to 42 percent very short, 45 percent short and 13 percent adequate.

(Paxton-jm) – The wait is almost over. Kino’s Coffee announced they will open their Paxton location next Tuesday, June 27th. Initially, the store will be open Monday through Friday 6 am to 6 pm and Saturdays 7 am to 2 pm.

(Champaign-jm) – Grammy Award-winning blues icon Buddy Guy is making a stop at the Virginia Theatre in Champaign this fall as part of his farewell tour. The Virginia Theatre shared on their website that at age 86, Guy is a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee. Guy will perform at the Virginia Theatre at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 8. Tickets range from $69.50-$99.50 in addition to a per-ticket processing fee of $6.50-$8.50. Tickets go on sale for the public at 10 a.m. on Friday, June 23.

(Roberts-jm) – The village of Roberts will hold their first Roberts Fun Day this Saturday. Spokesperson Cassie Ehman talks about what is taking place…

Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Cassie Ehman.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign woman is facing an attempted murder charge for a shooting earlier this month. Genell Carter-Tucker was arrested by U-S Marshals in connection to a shots fired incident that injured one person. Bond was set at $1 million.

(Washington-jm) – The Omega Block over the middle of the nation should continue to keep needed moisture away from corn and soybean crops in the area. Rod Bain reports…

(Monticello-IN–jc)  –  Indiana Beach has been an area attraction since 1926. Indiana Beach Vice President of Marketing Tom Crisci says it started on the beaches of Monticello Indiana and has grown to a popular destination…

He adds that everyone has their favorite attraction…

Indiana Beach Vice President of Marketing Tom Crisci.

WPXN is giving away Indiana Beach tickets all day today. 

We also have an interview with Crisci during the noon news today. 

(Springfield-jm) – Former Republican state Senator Darren Bailey says he is weighing a 2024 run for Congress that could see him facing off against downstate Republican incumbent Mike Bost. Bailey recently joined former President Donald Trump at a rally in New Jersey soon after the one-time commander-in-chief was hit with a 37 count federal indictment over classified documents, leaving some to speculate that he may be at least a step closer to making his run official. Bost took to social media earlier this month to announce he plans to seek another term.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Board of Education wants to make sure students have access to teachers who are well-prepared to lead classrooms. To help with that, the Board is awarding grants to districts that need it the most. $45 million is in the newest state budget to address shortages. The money will go to 170 school districts with the highest count of unfilled teaching positions. 60% are in rural areas, 40% in urban. Once the districts have the money, it’s up to each district to decide how they’ll use it.

(Springfield-jm) – Another week of very little rain has led to a decline in Illinois crop conditions. Rainfall was more than a half inch below normal this past week, dropping average statewide topsoil moisture to 42 percent very short, 45 percent short and 13 percent adequate. That’s taken a toll on crops, says Statistician Mark Schleusener…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. Just 17 percent of pasture acreage is rated in good to excellent shape. 13 percent of winter wheat has been harvested. That compares to 17 percent normally. The first cutting of alfalfa is almost done and four percent of the second cutting is now complete.

(Champaign-jm) – In an effort to combat a social media trend that's led to stolen cars across the country, the Champaign Police Department will be offering free steering wheel locks to Hyundai and Kia vehicle owners. The locks will be provided on Saturday, June 24, from 10:00 a.m. to noon in the North First Street visitor parking lot adjacent to the Champaign Police Department, 82 E. University Avenue in Champaign. The locks will be free and distributed on a first come, first serve basis to Champaign residents who own Kia vehicles manufactured between 2011-2021 and Hyundai vehicles manufactured 2013-2021. These are the years that the vehicles were built without an engine immobilizer. Owners will need to provide proof of residency in Champaign and current vehicle registration to verify ownership of an affected Hyundai or Kia to receive a free steering wheel lock.

(Springfield-jm) – Summer is here and so is the presence of mosquitoes and the West Nile Virus. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City says there have already been some cases reported in the state…

53rd District State Senator Tom Benentt of Gibson City.

(Watseka-jm) – Iroquois County groups wanting to receive federal American Rescue Plan money have until July 3rd to submit their application. Applications can be mailed to the county finance office or emailed to Jill Johnson. Her email is j-johnson at iroquois county il dot gov.

(Washington-jm) – The lead U.S. official to the recent G20 Agricultural Ministers meeting in India provided reporters with a summary of event highlights. Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – The insurance code for Pap smears and prostate exams will soon be gender neutral as a result of a new law.  Instead of men receiving prostate exams and women receiving Pap smears, it would be “individuals” receiving the exams. Governor J.B. Pritzker signed House Bill 2350. It takes effect January 1, 2025. Former state Senator Cristina Pacione-Zayas, of Chicago, said the bill was conceived because transgender and gender non-conforming people have historically struggled with accessing health care. Republicans argued women can’t get prostate exams and men can’t get pap smears and that there were more important bills stuck in committee.

(Springfield-jm) – Two pieces of legislation sponsored by 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City were recently signed into law. Senator Bennett talks about the bills…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – The City of Champaign announced that one northbound and one southbound lane of Prospect Avenue will be closed beginning today. The closure, between Springfield Avenue and Union Street, is so crews can complete fiber optic installation in the area. City officials said northbound and southbound traffic will be reduced to one lane during the closure. Work is scheduled to be complete, and the lanes will reopen on Friday.

(Rantoul-jm) – An arrest warrant has been issued for a Rantoul man who missed court for allegedly breaking the doors at the Champaign County and federal courthouse in Urbana. Austin Kim is charged with 2 counts of criminal damage to government supported property.

(Buckley–jc)  – Property owners in the  village of Buckley are being asked to return a grant survey in the next two weeks. Buckley Mayor Scott Shockley says the grant is for 500 thousand dollars…

Buckley Mayor Scott Shockley

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man will spend the next decade in prison for his role in a shooting. Charman Brown of Champaign received the sentence for his role in a drive by shooting. A charge of aggravated discharge of a firearm was dismissed.

(Paxton-jm) – The PRIDE in Paxton Queen of Hearts raffle is postponed this week in remembrance of PRIDE founder Teri Hancock’s visitation on Thursday. The next raffle will be on Wednesday, June 28th.

(Springfield-jm) – Republican state Representative Dan Caulkins is fuming that Illinois taxpayers are being forced to pay for the state's more than 6,000 units of local government. While the Illinois Policy Institute puts the number of local government units at around 6.032 units, Census Bureau data from 2017 puts it at around 7,000 units and the Civic Federation actually pegs it in the neighborhood of 9,000 units. Some Republicans would like to see some of those units of government reduced such as consolidating townships and road districts as well as school district administrations.

(Springfield-jm) – Drought conditions around the area are causing concerns. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City says it has their attention…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is joining the investigation into a shooting last week at a pop-up party in Champaign. Four people were shot, and Crime Stoppers is hoping someone from the community can identify the person responsible. Champaign Police are still investigating the June 11 gathering near Douglas Park that ended in chaos when someone opened fire. During that shooting, a 17-year-old was shot in the head and was left fighting for his life. A 29- and 27-year-old were shot in their limbs, and a 23-year-old was grazed in the ear. The chaos that followed also resulted in at least three motor vehicle collisions, which resulted in two others being hurt. Multiple parked vehicles were damaged and at least one home was hit by gunfire. The party shooting was one of two that happened in Champaign in the early hours of June 11. Just hours earlier, two 21-year-olds were hurt in a combined shooting-stabbing incident on South Neil Street. Two men have been arrested in connection to the Neil Street incident.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man has been found guilty for shooting a man attempting to evict him. Quionte Chaney faces 45-85 years in the shooting death of Rayvell Lofton. Chaney will be sentenced later this year.

(Paxton–jc)  – The bench project at the Grand Ole Flag in the city of Paxton is now complete. The last 3 benches were placed this month and Grand Ole Flag spokesperson Denny Kingren invites the public to come and see them…

Paxton Grand Ole Flag Spokesperson Denny Kingren.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man is facing drug and weapons charges. Javonte Carter is charged with possession with intent to deliver cocaine, possession of 15 to 100 grams of cocaine and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon after police discovered 18 grams of cocaine and possessing a gun without a FOID card. If convicted of intending to sell cocaine, he faces 6 to 30 years in prison.

(Rantoul-jm) – The Community Service Center of Northern Champaign County is giving away free fans to seniors 60 and over. They must bring an ID. Fans are limited to 1 per household and are first come first serve.

(Undated-jm) – Today is Juneteenth, a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of slaves on June 19, 1865. Banks, the post office and other government buildings are closed.

(Springfield-jm) – Utilizing the authority granted to the Department of Healthcare and Family Services in the state budget, the agency has filed emergency and regular rules for the health benefits for immigrant adults and seniors programs. The agency will follow the process laid out in the emergency rules to temporarily pause new enrollments in the program, covering eligible residents between the ages of 42 to 64, beginning July 1. The enrollment changes are necessary to bring program costs within the budgeted amount for State Fiscal Year 2024, which begins July 1.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Public Health is urging people to “fight the bite” and protect themselves from mosquitoes this summer. The West Nile Virus has been detected in four counties so far, St Clair, Morgan, LaSalle and Cook. While many people who are infected don’t have many symptoms, the virus can be serious for the elderly and those with a compromised immune system. Public Health Spokesperson Mike Claffey says that’s why it's important to “fight the bite”...

Illinois Public Health Spokesperson Mike Claffey. Some of the most effective mosquito repellents contain deet, oil of lemon eucalyptus or picaridin. Last year in Illinois, 8 people died of West Nile Virus.

(Ford County-jm) – The Ford County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of one of their own. Lieutenant Pat Duffy passed away Friday. Duffy had been with the Sheriff’s office since 1978.

(Buckley-jm) – The Buckley Lions Club is raising money for a mural. The mural will be painted by Nate Grice, who painted murals in Paxton, on the south wall of the village waterworks building.

(Springfield-jm) – Tired of watering yet? A horticulture educator at the University of Illinois Extension has some tips for making sure your plants get enough moisture. For starters, all plants should be watered at the roots, says the Extension’s Chris Enroth. Getting too much water on the leaves can lead to disease. He also recommends using the hose nozzle on the “shower” setting so you don’t blast your plants and says you can check the ground for adequate moisture…

University of Illinois Extension Horticulturist Chris Enroth. Enroth says established plants need moisture at a soil depth of 6 to 8 inches. That equates to about an inch of water per week.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man will spend 25 years in prison for sexually assaulting a 12 year old girl in 2019. Lanell Metcalfe received the sentence in Champaign County court after being convicted for predatory criminal sexual assault.

(Washington-jm) – The USDA is wrapping up data collection for its upcoming June 30th report on planted acreage. Gary Crawford reports…

(Roberts–jc)  The 20-23 Roberts Fun Day is set for this Saturday. WPXN”s Joel Cluver has the details…

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul has announced a $2.3 million multistate settlement with an online lingerie retailer. The settlement resolves claims that AdoreMe, Inc. deceptively marketed its VIP Membership Program to consumers and made it difficult to cancel memberships. The company offered discounted pricing if they enrolled in the program and were charged nearly $40 a month. Consumers could only avoid the automatic charge if they made a purchase before the sixth day of each month or logged onto their accounts to decline the charge. 

(Springfield-jm) – Law enforcement in Illinois will now be able to use drones as a public safety tool. A new state law just signed by Governor J-B Pritzker allows police to launch drones over large crowds such as festivals and parades. Senator Linda Holmes of Aurora sponsored the measure, calling it one of the most important of her career…

State Senator Linda Holmes of Aurora. Police could also use drones to respond to a call, so that they can collect real-time information before they arrive on the scene. The law takes effect immediately.

(Paxton-jm) – The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce held their annual golf outing Friday. WPXN came in first followed by Shields in Paxton and Paxton IGA. Best dressed was The Frederick Community Bank.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Fire Department responded to a fire in a multi-family apartment complex at 2777 Hunters Pond Run, Sunday at 3:04 p.m.  Firefighters responded to an initial report from a passerby of a fire on a third-floor balcony.  Once on the scene, fire crews reported heavy smoke and fire coming from the rear of the apartment building.  The fire was quickly upgraded to a second-alarm.  The cause of this fire has not been determined however, investigators have determined the fire started near an exterior closet on a third-floor balcony.  The occupants of two units of this 30-unit building will be displaced because of this fire. 

(Springfield-jm) – Drought conditions are worsening in Illinois. Precipitation in Illinois has been well below normal since May 1st. The latest U-S Drought Monitor shows 65 percent of the state in at least a moderate drought and 15 percent is considered in a severe drought. State Climatologist Trent Ford says the lack of rain is taking its toll…

State Climatologist Trent Ford. Ford says pasture conditions are suffering and many producers in the driest parts of the state are having to supplement feed due to poor hay quality and yields.

(Undated-jm) – Republican Regan Deering officially launched her campaign for state representative of the 88th District. The district includes portions of Macon, McLean, DeWitt, and Piatt Counties. It is currently represented by state Representative Dan Caulkins, who will not seek reelection. Deering unsuccessfully made a run for Congress last year. Deering was one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit that ended the Pritzker Administration’s COVID-19 requirement for children to wear masks in schools.

(Washington-jm) – A lowering of cheese prices in USDA’s latest dairy forecasts led to similar adjustments among product and class price categories. Rod Bain reports…

(Melvin–jc)  – The 20-23 Ford County Fair starts on Sunday. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the  details…

The City of Paxton will hold brush pickup this week.

(Springfield-jm) – Two measures that look to protect striking union workers have some questioning the impact on businesses in the state of Illinois. House bills 2907 and 3396 were signed into law earlier this month by Governor J.B. Pritzker. 2907 prevents striking workers from being sued for unintentional property damage as a result of a strike, while 3396 provides that any person with the intent of obstructing or interfering with a picket line commits a Class A misdemeanor and a minimum fine of $500.

(Springfield-jm) – Jobs were up and the unemployment rate was down last month in Illinois. Good news for May says State Department of Employment Security Acting Director Ray Marchiori (march-ee-ori)...

Illinois Department of Employment Security Acting Director Ray Marchiori (march-ee-ori). That compares to four point two percent in April. Marchiori says 25 hundred jobs were added last month. Sectors with the most growth include government, financial activities, education and health services and leisure and hospitality. Losses were seen in the construction and manufacturing industries.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor JB Pritzker signed a bill that prohibits Illinois insurance companies from raising rates or canceling policies for homeowners strictly based on the type of dog they own. Now companies can only take action if the dog is found dangerous or vicious as defined by the Animal Control Act. The new law is supposed to take effect in six months.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker is announcing a statewide partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The initiative provides a free book each month to children from birth to five years old, says the Governor…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. The Imagination Library is already available in nearly 40 locations in Illinois, serving about 28 thousand kids. Additional funding in the new state budget will expand the program statewide.

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton first responders were called to a 2 vehicle accident near Paxton around mid-day hours. Crews responded to the accident at 500 north 1900 east just after 12 noon. No word on if there were any injuries.

(Washington-jm) – Despite upward adjustments in beef production for this year and next, a year over year tightening of beef supplies is still forecasted. Rod Bain reports…

(Buckley–jc) The 20-23 Buckley Fun Day is set for tomorrow in the Southern Iroquois County town. There are events starting at 9am and running through the annual Duck Race says Organizer Peggy Shockley…

Buckley Fun Day Organizer Peggy Shockley

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Public Health is reminding the public that along with the start of summer, mosquito season is getting underway in Illinois and that positive batches of West Nile virus have been reported in four counties around the state. While no human cases of West Nile virus have been reported in Illinois so far this year, there were 34 human cases and eight deaths attributed to the disease in the state in 2022. A total of 10 batches of mosquitos that tested positive for West Nile virus have been reported this year in Cook, LaSalle, Morgan and St. Clair counties.

(Springfield-jm) – Red Swamp Crayfish, also known as Louisiana Crawfish, are the most common species used in crawfish boils. It’s illegal to possess them live or ship them live to Illinois, because they are harmful to the environment, says Illinois Department of Natural Resources Brandon Fehrenbacher (fair-en-bacher)...

Illinois Department of Natural Resources Brandon Fehrenbacher (fair-en-bacher). Fehrenbacher says you can use the Red Swamp Crayfish in your boil but only if they come frozen or steamed. He says another problem is that they’re used as fishing bait or even released as part of a ceremony.

(Springfield-jm) – A new survey shows Illinois renters are hiding thousands of pets from their landlords. According to AgentAdvice.com, 19% of pet-owning renters in Illinois admit to not disclosing their pet to their landlords, equating to over 300,000 concealed pets. The most compliant renters with pets live in neighboring Indiana, where the figure is just 4%, or just over 32,000 pets.

(Springfield-jm) – A recent report looks at the reasons why students choose to go out of state for college. The report from the Illinois Workforce and Education Research Collaborative found cost to be the number one factor that high school seniors consider when selecting a college. The difference is how much weight “stayers,” who go to an Illinois school and “leavers” who opt to go elsewhere, give to that concern, says Researcher Mariana Barragan Torres…

Illinois Workforce and Education Research Collaborative Researcher Mariana Barragan Torres. Torres says leavers also put more emphasis on a school’s social environment and athletics. Nearly 48 percent of Illinois students planning to go to a four-year college choose to attend an out of state school and the majority go to schools in neighboring states.

(Champaign-jm) – An Amazon delivery driver is facing charges after University of Illinois Police officials said he tried to kick down his former roommates’ apartment door. Zachariah Glass, 22, was arrested after officials said he was identified as the suspect. The attempted break-in happened at an apartment in the area of Second and Green Streets. Glass allegedly kicked the door several times, damaging it in the process, and called out to the tenants multiple times before leaving. He was arrested and booked into the Champaign County Jail on charges of home invasion, aggravated assault and criminal property damage.

(Washington-jm) – USDA will conduct testing to determine if additional verification methods are needed for companies wishing to use negative antibiotic claims for cattle. Rod Bain reports…

(Rantoul–jc)  – It’s more tournament sports this weekend at the Rantoul Sports Complex.  One of the top tournaments is the Game Day U-S-A Baseball World Series at the local complex on Rantoul’s west side.  Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Sports Operations Ryan Reid says a lot of community activities are being planned for this summer and fall in the village…

Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Sports Operations Ryan Reid

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce Golf outing will take place today  at Lakeview Country Club Loda. Lunch is at 11 with a noon start. 

Gibson City will hold their Friday night cruise night tonight from 6-10 pm.

Lake Iroquois Women's Club has their breakfast for the public on Saturday from 7-30am until 11am at the Clubhouse at Lake Iroquois. A 5k and 10 K run is set to step off around 7-30am on Saturday and a 1K kids run takes place at 9am

The 2023 Buckley Fun Day will take place on Saturday at Buckley Lake. Activities include a fishing derby at 9 am, barrel train rides at 11, bounce house at noon, golf cart parade at 1, dunk donnie and penny hill at 1:30, bossie bingo and balloon toss at 2, kids tractor pull at 3 and the duck race at 4:17.

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting the Women’s Ministry URBC on Saturday from 10-2.

(Springfield-jm) – As Illinois implements more requirements on local libraries in order to access state tax dollars, some are questioning whether the state government is overstepping its boundaries.  Governor J.B. Pritzker this week signed a first-in-the-nation law that restricts state tax dollars for local libraries that don't follow certain guidelines from a national group. House Bill 2789 requires state libraries to adopt the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights if they want to receive state grants.  According to the ALA, material cannot be removed from the shelves for partisan or personal reasons. Supporters say the guidelines make clear that people have access to even controversial material while opponents say the law takes away control from locally elected library and school board members. Republicans say the decision on what books are suitable for children should be left up to the parents.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is urging the public to watch out for email and text message scams. First there was phishing, where con artists send an email to try to get you to click on a link or obtain your personal information. But now, smishing is becoming more prevalent. That’s where scammers reach out via text, says Attorney General Raoul…

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul. Raoul also advises against sending the word “stop” to a bogus text because replying confirms the phone number is active and that you’re willing to open such messages.

(Champaign-jm) – A portion of I-74 in Champaign had to be closed for a couple hours Wednesday evening while crews repaired power lines over the interstate. State Police closed both lanes of I-74 between I-57 and Prospect Avenue.

(Buckley–jc) One area engineering firm is celebrating 50 years in business and the company is also in the process of helping a small local community with its sewer and waste water project. Fehr Graham has locations in three states, but also in Champaign locally. The firm is helping the village of Buckley with a new plant project and Buckley Mayor Scott Shockley says they also came out to film about the company in Buckley this week…

Buckley Mayor Scott Shockley.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man is due back in court in July for allegedly selling cocaine. Michael Finley is charged with possession with intent to deliver cocaine and possession of a controlled substance after police stopped his vehicle for failing to signal. The officer learned Finley’s license had been suspended and he had a warrant for his arrest. A search uncovered two phones, $740 in cash, 5 grams of cocaine and 18 grams of cannabis.

(Paxton–jc)  –  Flag day was Wednesday, and volunteers with the Paxton Grand Ole Flag project continue to place new flags at the site on Paxton’s west side. The giant U S Flag is visible to those traveling up and down Interstate 57. Several new benches have also recently been placed at the site. Organizer Denny Kingren talks about keeping flags in good condition…

Paxton Grand Ole Flag Organizer Denny Kingren

Springfield-jm) – A new Illinois law prohibits law enforcement from pulling over drivers solely for having objects hanging from their rearview mirrors.  The measure was originally introduced by state Representative La Shawn Ford, of Chicago, and Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias in March. Ford said changing the law will help keep communities safer as it would reduce the number of interactions police have with drivers for non-violent violations. The Illinois Sheriff’s Association and the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police were opposed to the measure. The law goes into effect on January 1, 2024.

(Springfield-jm) – A new state law aims to prevent repeated accidents at low bridges and viaducts in Illinois. The law creates a pilot program to determine if early warning devices like “LIDAR” technology, radar and special signage can help prevent crashes. It was sponsored by Senator Rachel Ventura of Joliet…

State Senator Rachel Ventura of Joliet. Ventura says bridge strikes alone in Champaign County average around $400,000 in repairs.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Fire Department responded to a fire in a single-family home at 2506 Sheridan Dr., Wednesday at 5:57 p.m. Firefighters responded to a report of a fire in this bi-level residence called in by the occupants.  Once on the scene, fire crews reported heavy fire coming from the front and side of the home.  All the occupants had evacuated prior to the fire department’s arrival.  

The cause of this fire has not been determined. Investigators have determined the fire started on the upper level of the residence.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinoisans will see a tax increase come July 1st. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson city.

(Undated-jm) - The Illinois Soybean Association Agronomy Team is coming to a field near you to present “ISA Field Days,” designed to deliver you the latest insights in agronomy to help you drive profit and sustainability. The ISA Agronomy Team will be joined by an expert lineup, covering the threats and opportunities Illinois farmers are facing this growing season including crop management, insect issues, nutrient management, weed control and more. On June 29th, the group will be at the Brock Ideus farm in St. Joseph and September 8th at Dave Olson’s farm in Hoopeston.

(Paxton–jc)  Plans for the 20-23 Paxton 4th of July Celebration at Pells Park have been finalized. The day starts with a 5-K run around the city at 8am sponsored by the Paxton Masonic Lodge. A community worship service is set for 9-45. A car show, antique tractor show, kids games, music with Baick Pages and lots of food highlight the day in Paxton. Fireworks are set for dusk on July 4th. 

WPXN News Notes…

The Ford County Health Department will hold a World Elder Abuse Awareness Day walk today at 1 pm at South Park in Gibson City.

The Gibson Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual community appreciation fish fry this evening from 5-7pm at North Park in Gibson City.

(Springfield-jm) – A cancer organization says the Illinois General Assembly missed an opportunity during the spring session to lessen the burden of cancer on Illinoisans. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network was hoping for a comprehensive paid medical and family leave bill that provides family leave insurance benefits to eligible employees in Illinois. They were looking to set up a program where a person could take a longer extended period of time off and have job security, your job would be waiting for you when you got back, but also where you could draw a paycheck at the same time. Opponents of the cancer paid time off said such legislation would place even more burdens on Illinois small businesses trying to recover from the pandemic.

(Springfield-jm) – It’s soon going to be a speedier trip on Amtrak’s Lincoln Service from Chicago to St. Louis. Illinois Department of Transportation Spokesperson Paul Wappel says thanks to the route’s high speed rail project, passenger trains will now reach 110 miles per hour…

IDOT Spokesperson Paul Wappel. The nearly two billion dollar project also included major safety improvements at over 200 grade crossings to help prevent vehicle and pedestrian collisions on the tracks.

(Rantoul-jm) – Scott Eisenhower has resigned as Rantoul’s village administrator following his arrest on domestic battery charges. WAND reports Eisenhower submitted his resignation before last night's monthly board meeting. Eisenhower was arraigned Tuesday on three charges, each of which carries a penalty of a year behind bars.He has been the village administrator since November 2018. The Rantoul Village board has yet to accept the resignation.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign woman has been arrested following an investigation into a May 24 shooting incident on Providence Circle. Upon arrival, officers located a 28-year-old male victim from Champaign with a potentially life-threatening gunshot wound. The investigation indicates that a fight was taking place between multiple people when 27-year-old Gennell Carter-Tucker fired multiple rounds toward the crowd, striking one person before fleeing the area. Yesterday, members of the United States Marshals assisted Champaign Police in arresting Carter-Tucker on a warrant for her involvement in this incident. She remains in the custody of the Champaign County Correctional Center on charges of Attempted First Degree Murder.

(Washington-jm) – It's big, powerful and could do a number on crops in the central U.S. What is it? Gary Crawford reports…

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man is facing a plethora of charges. Tyderious Hughes is facing charges of armed violence, aggravated possession of two stolen guns, unlawful use of weapons by a felon and possession of a controlled substance after a vehicle Hughes was driving in was pulled over for no rear license plate. Hughes was found in possession of two grams of cocaine, two stolen guns and he also has two warrants out of Mississippi. If convicted of the armed violence charge, he faces 15-30 years in prison.

(Melvin–jc)  The Ford County Fair Queen pageant  is set for Monday June 26th. 4 ladies are competing for the crown. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

(Springfield-jm) – Despite the Illinois Constitution prohibiting lawmakers from increasing their pay during the term they were elected, some are wondering how Illinois legislators have received two bumps in pay in the last six months.  In the latest state budget, Illinois lawmakers included a 5.5% pay raise. This is on top of the nearly 17% raise the previous General Assembly that ended January 10 gave the current General Assembly that began January 11.  Despite it being part-time work, Illinois lawmakers will now make nearly $90,000 a year, one of the highest legislative salaries in the country. Members chairing committees or in leadership will make even more. In neighboring Iowa and Missouri, lawmakers make less than $40,000.

(Springfield-jm) – A new assistance program can help make owning a home possible. It’s called Illinois H-F-A-1 and is run by the State Housing Development Authority. Spokesperson Andrew Field says the program issues eligible buyers 10 thousand dollars towards a down payment and or closing costs…

Illinois Housing Development Authority Spokesperson Andrew Field. The down payment assistance is provided as an interest free second mortgage with payments deferred for 30 years or until the buyer sells the home. More details are available online at: ihda mortgage dot org.

(Danville-jm) – Danville Area Community College received a $200,000 grant from The Old National Bank Foundation to fund their Middle Dropout Prevention Program. The program is known to help high school students that are unsure of their plans after high school, or on the verge of dropping out.

(Urbana-jm) – State Representative Carol Ammons has announced she will seek re-election to her house seat. Ammons had announced she would challenge Paul Faraci for the Senate seat once held by Scott Bennett.

(Washington-jm) – USDA's latest projections for global corn production for this marketing year and next are expected to increase, due to adjustments up for some key producing nations. Rod Bain reports…

(Urbana-jm) – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict on June 8, against an Urbana man for conspiracy to possess 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, maintaining drug-involved premises, and possessing a firearm as a felon. Phoutasone Champanine will be sentenced on October 13, at the U.S. Courthouse in Urbana.

WPXN News Notes…

The Ford County Health Department will hold a World Elder Abuse Awareness Day walk on Thursday, June 15th at 1 pm at South Park in Gibson City.

The Gibson Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual community appreciation fish fry on Thursday, June 15th at North Park in Gibson City.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker is signing a first of its kind law prohibiting book banning in Illinois. Under the law, libraries that remove books because of partisan or personal disapproval will no longer be eligible for state grants. The Governor says the threat is real…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias proposed the law, which takes effect January 1st. He says it will also provide protection for librarians who are harassed and threatened over certain titles.

(Rantoul–jc)  – Rantoul Village Administrator Scott Eisenhower has been placed on administrative leave concerning a domestic  incident at his home in the village. The Champaign County Sheriff’s office is investigating

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois will soon require new or renovated homes and multi-unit residential buildings to have conduits to charge electric vehicles. Governor JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 40 into law, and this change will apply to new and existing houses, apartments, and condo properties. Democratic leaders said this change will help reduce vehicle emissions and expand the market for electric vehicles. Republican lawmakers are concerned that many property owners won't agree to this mandate.

(Springfield-jm) – Nearly all of Illinois is now considered to be abnormally dry or officially in a drought. The only counties in the state not covered by drought concerns are parts of Sangamon, Christian, Montgomery and the far northeast corner of Macoupin. Areas rated the driest are Pike, Hancock and Adams Counties, all in western Illinois. State Climatologist Trent Ford says there are some signs of problems…

State Climatologist Trent Ford. Ford says fortunately, the outlook for the rest of the month is calling for more normal rainfall and potential storms in mid to late June.

(Rantoul-jm) – A stolen pickup truck was found submerged in Heritage Lake Park on Monday. Rantoul Police were notified around 2 p.m., and upon arrival found a red pickup truck completely submerged. Cornbelt Fire Protection District's dive team was called to assist in extracting the vehicle.  Police report the vehicle was not occupied, and that the truck was reported stolen from Champaign at 3 p.m. on Sunday. Rantoul Police are continuing to investigate the incident.

(Champaign-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that the ramp from northbound Interstate 57 to westbound I-74 in Champaign will close this evening. The closure is necessary to begin the construction of a new I-74 bridge over I-57 as part of a larger project to rebuild the entire interchange. A detour utilizing northbound I-57 to Market Street and then back to southbound I-57 to westbound I-74 will be in place during construction, which is expected to last about one year.

(Paxton–jc)  One local businessman and family continue to add businesses to the downtown area of the city. Victor Torres is owner of the La Hacienda Restaurant in Paxton and just opened Lucky’s Place…a tavern with Chicago Hot Dogs and gaming. Torres is now in the process of opening La Cafeteria in downtown Paxton with bakery goods and more. Torres says he hopes the third business will be open very soon…

Paxton Businessman Victor Torres.

(Dewey-jm) – A Dewey man convicted of aggravated sexual abuse has been sentenced to 7 years in prison. Josh Stover received the sentence in Champaign County court after admitting he took a girl to a Rantoul motel in 2020, provided he alcohol and assaulted her. A jury acquitted Stover of a more serious count of criminal sexual assault. With credit for time served, Stover could be released in as little as 3 months since he must serve at least 50 percent.

(Champaign County-jm) – A Champaign County advocacy group is raising concerns about the number of nursing home beds available in the county. Advocates for Nursing Home Care is raising the concerns following the closure of University Rehab and the reduction of beds at Clark Lindsey. According to data from the state, Champaign County has 710 total existing nursing home beds in 2021, however, there is a projected need of 721 beds by next year. According to the advocacy group, there’s only 412 nursing home beds in the county.

(Springfield-jm) – Crop conditions declined over the past week. The weather was cooler and drier than normal, leaving average statewide topsoil moisture at 31 percent very short, 42 percent short and 27 percent adequate. 97 percent of corn has emerged and the condition of the crop fell to 48 percent in good to excellent condition. Statistician Mark Schleusener looks at soybeans…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. 63 percent of winter wheat and 22 percent of pasture acres are rated in good to excellent condition.

(Washington-jm) – Why are U.S. agricultural imports growing while exports are shrinking? Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Former Governor Bruce Rauner is back in Springfield for the unveiling of his official portrait. It’s a tradition for each Governor to have their portrait hung at the state capitol after they’ve left office. Bruce Rauner’s features the former Governor standing in a navy suit with a light blue shirt and no tie. At the unveiling, he commented on the pin he’s wearing on his lapel in the picture…

Former Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner. Rauner currently lives in Florida and continues to work on education initiatives, visits his grandkids around the country and returns to Illinois each September for dove hunting season.

(Chicago-jm) – Chicago started moving some of the foreign nationals from the southern border to other communities throughout the city.  More than 10,000 migrants have arrived in Chicago from the southern border over the past nine months, which has resulted in taxpayer funding going towards addressing the influx. Governor J.B. Pritzker enacted the annual state budget that begins July 1. The plan includes $43 million from state taxpayers for the issue in Chicago. The state budget also provides taxpayer subsidies for some migrant health care. 

On top of state funds, Chicago is also appropriating $51 million toward housing and other services. Governor Pritzker is asking for more help from President Joe Biden's administration and work permits for the migrants. 

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Emergency Management Agency is urging families to consider their pets in any disaster preparedness plans. Items to put into a disaster preparedness kit include extra bowls, collars, leashes, food, medication, treats and maybe a favorite toy or blanket, says IEMA Spokesperson Kevin Sur. He reminds that if you are displaced, many shelters don’t take pets…

IEMA Spokesperson Kevin Sur. Sur says it’s also a good idea to think about where you could go with your furry friend if you have to evacuate, such as a hotel that accepts pets or a relative’s house.

(Hoopeston-jm) – The U.S. Department of Defense has announced they found the remains of a central Illinois soldier who was 22 years old when he was killed in World War II. Air Force Technical Sgt. Lawrence Reitz of Hoopeston was among those fighting in Romania in 1943 in one of the largest bombing missions against the refineries north of Bucharest. Reitz’s plane was shot down during the raid. His remains were positively identified following a renewed identification effort that began in 2017.

(Urbana-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is asking the public for help in tracking down an Urbana woman wanted for burglary. Marjorie Hill, 53, was charged in February on a single count of burglary. After initially failing to appear in court, she was arrested and booked into the Champaign County Jail the following month. Hill pleaded guilty to the charge against her and was sentenced to 30 months of probation in early May. She was released from the Champaign County Jail on May 8, but was ordered to appear in court again for a follow-up hearing the next day. Hill never appeared in court on May 9 and a new warrant for her arrest was issued. Hill is described as being 5 feet, 3 inches in height and weighs 150 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes.

(Roberts–jc)  A Free fishing tournament is set for Saturday in the Ford County community of Roberts. The pond is owned by the Tongate family and they have set up a free fishing tournament from 10am until 3pm, says organizer Mike Tongate…

Roberts Fishing Tournament Spokesperson Mike Tongate. No fishing license is required due to the State of Illinois free fishing weekend. 

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign Police are still investigating an armed bank robbery that happened last week and Crime Stoppers is joining the effort to identify the person responsible. The robbery happened Monday, June 5, at the Midland States Bank on West Springfield Avenue. Officials said that just before 2 p.m., a suspect entered the bank with a gun and demanded money. He was given an undisclosed amount of money and left before police arrived. He was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, light gray sweatpants, black shoes, gloves and a black face mask.

(Gibson City-jm) – Gibson City police have released their recent activity report. On June 6th, 33 year old Kayla Sutherly was arrested on an in state warrant and possession of meth.

(Springfield-jm) – Crop conditions declined over the past week. 63 percent of winter wheat and just 22 percent of pasture acres are rated in good to excellent condition. 92 percent of soybeans have emerged, well ahead of last year’s pace, with 47 percent of acres in good to excellent shape. Statistician Mark Schleusener looks at corn…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. Rainfall was more than an inch below normal last week, dropping average statewide topsoil moisture to 31 percent very short, 42 percent short and 27 percent adequate.

(Washington-jm) – Exports of most U.S. bulk commodities are lower than last year, but there is at least one exception to that. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker signed 90 bills into law Friday. Here’s a look at a few of them. The laws range from requiring large music venues to have narcan on hand in case someone overdoses, to eliminating any mention of the death penalty in state statutes. One, from Representative Amy Elik of Alton, makes September 17th Constitution Day at school…

State Representative Amy Elik of Alton. Another new law requires schools to notify parents within 24 hours of learning about a bullying incident. And go ahead and hang those fuzzy dice from your rearview mirror, because that’s now legal under a bill the Governor signed.

Senator Mike Simmons of Chicago sponsored legislation that replaces pronouns like “his” and “hers” with “the child” and replaces “mother” with “person who gave birth” in several state statutes that deal with children…

State Senator Mike Simmons of Chicago. There’s also a new law prohibiting utilities from shutting off a customer’s electricity or gas because of overdue bills if the temperature is over 90 degrees or there is a heat watch or advisory.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois is one of the worst states for postal workers being accosted by dogs. According to a report by the United States Postal Service, Illinois ranked sixth in the country for states where the most postal workers were bitten by dogs while delivering mail on their routes last year. Among the largest metro areas, Chicago ranked sixth for the highest amount of dog attacks. USPS officials said dog owners have a responsibility to ensure they don’t attack mail carriers.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Liquor Control Commission is taking action to help make sure consumers don’t grab the wrong drink at the store. The Commission has filed an emergency rule to address concerns over co-branding, where alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages carry the same or similar brand name and logo, says Executive Director Lisa Gardner…

Illinois Liquor Control Commission Executive Director Lisa Gardner. Under the rule, large retailers can’t display alcoholic drinks right next to soda, fruit juices, water or certain snack foods. Smaller stores must either do the same thing or post signage indicating the product contains booze.

(Champaign-jm) – The McDonalds by Marketplace Mall is closing today for several months. The owners of the location say the existing building will be torn down and a new $3 million one built in its place. It is expected to take 3-4 months to complete and will include a double drive thru and playland. The owners of that location also own 9 other area McDonalds and say the Rantoul and Urbana location will receive smaller upgrades later this year.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Champaign man charged in connection to the officer involved shooting in Rantoul last week must prove the source of bail if he wants to be released before his trial. A Champaign County judge ruled Jheremia McKown will have to prove the bond money is coming from a legitimate and lawful source after prosecutors allege a recorded conversation he had with someone has raised concerns the money may not be from a lawful source. McKown was in a vehicle that had two handguns and several bags of cannabis for sale. Jordan Richardson was shot by a Rantoul police officer after a chase and Richardson allegedly pointing a gun towards pursuing officers.

(Paxton–jc)  One local military group continues to grow and help veterans and their families.  The Ford County Veterans Assistance Center has opened in the state street mall along route 45 in the city of Paxton. The center is operated by local resident Rebecca Rutledge.  One volunteer is local businessperson Pat Milchuck. Milchuck talks about how the money given to the local center is used to help local veterans…

Ford County Veterans Assistance Center volunteer Pat Milchuck.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man is behind bars on $1 million bond. Patrick Brewster was arrested after police were called after Brewster allegedly threatened the mother of his children with a gun. Police located 21 grams of cocaine, 226 painkiller pills and a loaded pistol. Brewster is charged with being an armed habitual offender, armed violence, possession with intent to deliver cocaine, possession of a stolen vehicle and domestic battery.

(Kankakee County-jm) – Three bats tested positive for rabies recently in Kankakee County. The positive bats were located in the areas of Grant Park, Kankakee, and St. Anne. Thirteen bats have tested positive for rabies in Illinois so far this year, and a total of 61 bats tested positive for rabies throughout the whole state of Illinois in 2022.

(Melvin–jc)  –  The Ford County Fair starts on Saturday June 25th. Entries for all categories are due. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

(Undated-jm) – The Illinois Milk Producers Association recently donated nearly 10,000 pounds of milk, including lactose-free, between two local food banks. The group donated about 2,000 half-gallon containers of milk, and nearly 400 half-gallon containers of lactose-free milk. The donation is made in partnership with Prairie Farms, Illinois Corn Growers Association and Illinois Soybean Association. Prairie Farms delivered the donations to the Central Illinois Foodbank in Springfield and the Eastern Illinois Food Bank in Urbana this week.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Board of Education continues to seek applications for 75 million dollars in preschool grant funding. The funding is part of the Governor’s Smart Start initiative and will go to new or existing programs that plan to expand. The idea is to make sure all three and four year olds have access to quality preschool, says State Superintendent of Education Tony Sanders…

State Superintendent of Education Tony Sanders. The grants are geared toward areas with “preschool deserts,” where there just aren’t any preschools or there are no spots open in current programs. More details are available online at: isbe dot net.

(Champaign-jm) – Two men have been arrested following an investigation into an early morning fight and stabbing on S. Neil Street. Champaign Police were dispatched at 1:26 a.m. on Sunday, to the 100-block of S. Neil Street for a report of a shooting with injury. On scene, officers found a 21-year-old female victim from Champaign with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the arm and a 21-year-old male victim from Champaign with a potentially life-threatening stab wound to the back. The investigation indicated that this incident started as an argument inside the premises of a nearby business before spilling into the street, where a large fight erupted. During the altercation, 23-year-old Sergio Sosa of Rantoul, Illinois, is alleged to have produced a knife and stabbed the male victim. Sosa was arrested on June 11 on pending charges including Aggravated Battery. Additionally, 22-year-old Junior Molinero of Arthur, Illinois, has been identified as an aggressor in the fight and arrested pending charges for Mob Action.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign Police were dispatched at 3:35 a.m. Sunday morning to the 1000 block of N. Sixth Street for a report of a shooting with injuries and multiple traffic collisions. Upon arrival, officers found several victims with gunshot wounds and began to render medical aid until an ambulance could arrive. At the same time, additional victims arrived at an area hospital. In all, four individuals were struck by gunfire and two were struck by vehicles related to this incident.  On scene, officers learned that a large crowd had formed for an impromptu gathering when an unknown subject opened fire. Police do not believe this incident and the stabbing and shooting above were related.

(Rantoul–jc)  Baseball and softball are in full swing with  games at the local Rantoul Sports Complex. One group at the diamonds this past weekend was Batman Baseball Bash.  Softball games were also on the diamonds this past weekend. Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Sports Operations Ryan Reid says additional sports are planned for June and July…

Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Sports Operations Ryan Reid.

(Rantoul-jm) – On Friday at approximately 11:41am, Rantoul Police were dispatched to the Falcon Drive Apartments for an armed subject.  The reporting person stated there was a black male dressed in all black clothing wearing a ski mask outside waving a handgun in the air.  The reporting person further stated this person was making threats and chasing a subject with the gun. Officers arrived on scene and located a subject matching this description crossing Maplewood Dr from Falcon Dr approaching Mahoning Trailer Park.  A second subject was also walking with this subject.  As officers began exiting their squads, the two subjects fled on foot.  Officers observed the two subjects run into 9 Mahoning Dr.  Multiple people were observed inside the trailer, but they continued to disregard commands to exit the residence.  Over the course of the next hour, officers continued to make commands for the subjects inside to exit.  Eventually seven subjects exited the residence and were detained as officers continued to investigate.

(Watseka-jm) – A 26-year-old Watseka man was sentenced on two felony charges in Livingston County.  Ryan Peters pled guilty to the felony charge of Unlawful Delivery of Cocaine and for Traveling to Meet a Minor, a class three felony. He was sentenced to four years in prison. He gets credit for serving 279 days in the Livingston County Jail. Peters will have to serve 50 percent of the sentence and register as a sex offender for 10 years. The Fairbury Police Department arrested Peters last September. A child porn possession and indecent solicitation of a child charge were dropped. Investigators say Peters is also facing similar charges in two other counties.

(Springfield-jm) – The state of Illinois saw a $677 million improvement in tax revenues for the month of May, helping recoup portions of April's losses. The Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability monthly report shows the increase came from growth in personal income taxes and federal sources. April saw a $1.8 billion decline in revenues compared to the same month the prior year. With one month left of the fiscal year, COGFA reports revenues are up more than $480 million over last year. 

(Rantoul-jm) – Rantoul police are investigating after shots rang out during a vigil for the teen killed in Wednesday’s officer-involved shooting. Police say they were called to the 700 block of Embassy Row for a shooting where approximately 100 people had gathered for a vigil. Witnesses told police a subject armed with a rifle began firing shots potentially at the group and several people were injured. However, police could not locate any victims and none were reported at area hospitals.

(Rantoul-jm) – Champaign County Coroner Duane Northrup is identifying the name of the individual killed in Wednesday’s officer-involved shooting in Rantoul. Northrup identified the victim as 18 year old Jordan Richardson of Rantoul. According to Northrup, Richardson died of a gunshot wound to the chest. An autopsy is scheduled for tomorrow.  Rantoul police are releasing the names of the officers involved in that shooting. The department says Sergeant Jerry King was the officer that fired his weapon. King is a 10 year veteran on the force.  Officer Casey Smith was present but did not fire her weapon.  Both are on administrative leave pending review by the State’s Attorney’s office and internal department review, which is standard department policy. The incident remains under investigation by the Champaign County Multi Jurisdictional Investigation Team. WPXN news will continue to update this story as it warrants.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Student Assistance Commission is now accepting applications for early childhood education scholarships. The Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity, or “E-CACE” scholarship aims to strengthen the workforce of teachers for the state’s youngest students. Previously, only college juniors could apply, but Illinois Student Assistance Commission’s Lynne Baker says the program has been significantly expanded…

Illinois Student Assistance Commission’s Lynne Baker. Baker says the scholarship can cover as much as the total cost of attendance at a participating college. Applications for the 2023-2024 school year are due by August 7th. More information is online at: isac dot org.

(Gibson City-jm) – A Gibson City woman faces burglary charges in McLean County. Denise Thornton, 55, is charged with one count of residential burglary and one count of theft, accused of entering a home in Colfax between November 18 and December 16, 2021 with the intent to commit theft and taking property valued between $500 and $10,000 that belonged to the homeowners. A grand jury returned a bill of indictment charging her in February 2022 and a warrant was issued. Thornton was taken into custody June 3 in Champaign County. She is due back in court June 23.

(Rantoul–jc)  –  The Rantoul Sports Complex continues to bring in thousands of sports players, families and fans to Rantoul’s west side. Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Sports Operations Ryan Reid says the complex has also had a good record  of creating jobs in Rantoul…

 Rantoul Sports Complex Director of Sports Operations Ryan Reid 

Sports at the complex today through Sunday is with Gameday USA-Batman Baseball with 9 and under to 15 and under 

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man has been sentenced to 2 years probation for solicitation of a 14 year old back in 2021. Alexander Pascual-Pedro received the sentence in Champaign County court after he met the teen at a location in Rantoul. In exchange for his guilty plea, a more serious charge of aggravated criminal sexual abuse was dismissed. Also in exchange for his guilty plea, Pascual-Pedro will not have to register as a sex offender.

(Paxton–jc)  The rainbow colors of the L G B T Q community will be in the city of Paxton for its annual march.  The event is set for Sunday at 1pm. The parade will be organized at the Paxton firehouse and then proceed to the downtown area and eventually ending up at Pells Park along route 9 in the city around 2-30pm  Music and more is planned in Pells park.  Organizers are hoping to raise awareness of the L G B T Q community with Sunday’s event. 

(Springfield-jm) – The State Department of Agriculture’s annual “Clean Sweep” program will be held in central and southwestern Illinois this year. The program gives people in certain counties the chance to get rid of unwanted agricultural pesticides. Once dropped off, the state assumes responsibility for proper disposal of the chemicals, says the Agency’s Brad Beaver…

Illinois Department of Agriculture’s Brad Beaver. Counties where clean sweep will be available include Bond, Clinton, Fayette, Jersey, Macoupin, Madison, Marion, Monroe, Montgomery and St Clair. You can learn more and find the registration form online at: agr dot illinois dot gov. Click on “plants” and then “pesticides.”

(Springfield-jm) – In the wake of Governor J.B. Pritzker signing the fiscal year 2024 budget, the Illinois State Board of Education is calling for applications for $75 million in new preschool funding. The Early Childhood Block grant is designed to increase access to preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds. The $75 million in new funding is part of a broader $250 million commitment in early childhood education and services. The deadline to apply is June 14.

(Undated-jm) – The latest U-S Drought Monitor was released Thursday and it shows drought conditions worsening across the state. 97 percent of the state is now experiencing some form of drought conditions, up from 75 percent the previous week. All of Ford, Iroquois, Champaign and Vermilion Counties are in moderate drought. 

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is touting landmark legislation that aims to further protect women’s reproductive rights. The bill prohibits automatic license plate readers, a tool to help police catch carjackers and others that have committed a serious crime, to be used to track someone seeking abortion care says Secretary Giannoulias…

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. The license plate readers also couldn’t be used to keep tabs on a person due to their immigration status. Republicans voted against the measure citing concerns a minor girl from another state could be brought to Illinois by her abuser to undergo an abortion, and that license plate data couldn't be used to bring him to justice.

(Urbana-jm) – Five people have been arrested after police officials said the car they were driving in was stolen from an Urbana dealership Wednesday evening. Urbana Police said that the car was pulled over in Chenoa, in McLean County. There were five people inside, all of whom tried to flee, but they were caught and arrested on various charges. The theft happened at Crispin Auto, in Urbana, around 6 p.m. Officials said it started with a test drive involving an employee and two White women. When the three returned to the dealership, two Black men were recorded on surveillance footage running up to the car as the employee was getting out. One of them pointed a gun at the back of her head and then shoved her out of the way. One of the women also pepper-sprayed the employee before she got in the car with the other suspects and drove away.

(Roberts–jc)  A Free fishing tournament day is set for Roberts in Ford County. The event is set for 10 until 3pm at the Roberts Pond.  Organizer Mike Tongate says there will be prizes and invites both adults and kids…

Roberts Free Fishing Tournament Day Organizer Mike Tongate. The event day is Saturday June 17th

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man has been sentenced to 30 months probation for sexually abusing a developmentally delayed teenager in 2019. Demetrius Wade received the sentence in Champaign County court after pleading guilty to criminal sexual abuse.

(Paxton–jc)  It was around 1-30 yesterday afternoon when the State Police Torch run came through the WPXN listening area and traveled by the WPXN Studios in Paxton.  Officers from the Illinois State Police, Cook County Sheriff’s office and Ford County Sheriff's office were escorting several runners. The torch run is on its way to Bloomington for the 20-23 Special Olympics.

(Springfield-jm) – The State Department of Public Health is warning about a Salmonella outbreak in northeastern Illinois. 26 cases have been confirmed in Chicago as well as Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will Counties from April 25th to May 18th, all linked to ground beef. Public Health Spokesperson Mike Claffey says there are still concerns about tainted beef so it’s important to keep raw meat away from other foods and to wash your hands and counters often…

State Public Health Spokesperson Mike Claffey. Claffey says the source of the Salmonella outbreak has not been identified yet. The CDC is looking at a small number of similar cases in other states.

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

Rantoul will host their clean up day on Saturday from 8-12 on Galaxy Drive.

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting the St. Mary’s CCW on Saturday from 10-2.

(Rantoul-jm) – The Champaign County Multi-Jurisdictional Investigate Team is investigating a fatal shooting involving a Rantoul police officer Wednesday. Around 12:30, officers located a vehicle in the 400 block of Campbell Avenue that had previously fled from officers in April. The officer and the driver of the vehicle were having a conversation, when the officer noticed a large amount of cannabis in the vehicle. The front seat passenger ran from the vehicle and a chase ensued. Officers observed a gun fall to the ground from the suspect. The suspect picked up the gun and continued to run in the area of Belle Avenue. The suspect fell again and turned toward an officer with the gun still in their hand. An officer shot the suspect with one round. The suspect was taken to the hospital where he later died. The identity of the officers involved have not yet been released. The driver of the vehicle, 20 year old Jheremia McKown of Champaign was arrested on multiple charges. Police say McKown struck an officer in the face. They found two additional loaded handguns inside the vehicle, a large amount of cannabis packaged for delivery and a large amount of currency. WPXN News will continue to follow this story.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritkzer is signing the new state budget into law.  The more than 50 billion dollar spending plan takes effect July 1st. It includes Governor Pritzker’s preschool and child care “Smart Start” initiative, as well as an increase in funding for college “map” grants…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. The budget also has more money for education, homelessness and violence prevention programs and workforce development efforts. It funds the hiring of nearly 200 more workers at the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services as well as new disease monitoring technology.

(Urbana-jm) – Champaign County State’s Attorney Julia Rietz says she’s seeking another term. It would be Reitz’s 6th term.

(Paxton–jc)  Another new business is opening in downtown Paxton this morning at 11. Lucky’s Place will consist of sandwiches, cool beverages and gaming says owner Victor Torres…

Lucky’s Place downtown Paxton Owner Victor Torres. Torres is also planning a third business venue with a bakery shop, also in the downtown area. Torres and family are owners of La Hacienda Cantina also in the downtown area. 

(Ford County-jm) – Ford County has been issued a final property assessment equalization factor of 1.0000, according to David Harris, Director of the Illinois Department of Revenue. The property assessment equalization factor, often called the "multiplier", is the method used to achieve uniform property assessments among counties, as required by law. Assessments in Ford County are at 32.92 percent of market value, based on sales of properties in 2019, 2020, and 2021.

(Undated-jm) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security says April’s metro unemployment numbers were mixed across the state’s 14 metro areas with 6 areas seeing an increase, 5 a decrease and 3 unchanged. Champaign and Ford Counties remained the same at 3.6 percent and 3.7 percent respectively. Vermilion Counties rose from 4.9 percent to 5 percent. Iroquois Counties fell from 4.6 percent to 4.4 percent.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man has been sentenced to 8 years in prison after he shot himself in the leg. DeAngelo Harris received the sentence after being found guilty of illegally having a gun.

(Washington-jm) – What is the importance for growers in submitting their annual crop acreage reports to their local Farm Service Agency office? Rod Bain reports…

(Paxton-dg)-A Jeopardy watch party took place at Artesia Brewery for Paxton Buckley Loda Teacher Collette Lee. She was a contestant on the show that aired yesterday at 3:30. She correctly answered the Final Jeopardy question but came up short on advancing to the next round. 

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker is signing the new state budget into law. The Governor says this is the fifth balanced budget in a row, increasing funding for education, health and safety programs and social services…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. The budget also includes funding for a new state employee AFSCME contract, which is currently under negotiation and pay raises for legislators, constitutional officers and top state executives. The more than 50 billion dollar spending plan takes effect July 1st.

(Urbana-jm) –  The city of Urbana is looking to add new resources, and city leaders are asking for your help in deciding what the community needs the most. The survey is a part of "Imagine Urbana," which is a 20 year plan to fix up the city and improve the quality of life. Families can choose from several categories from an online survey they believe need the most attention, which includes affordable housing, transportation, and local economy. The survey runs through July 31st.

(Gibson City-jm) – The Illinois Conservation Foundation is looking for nominations for their outdoor Hall of Fame. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Rantoul-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is joining the hunt for a wanted Rantoul man and they’re asking the public for help in finding him. Officials said the wanted individual is 43-year-old Moises Concepcion-Roman. Champaign County Court records indicate that he was tried for possessing a stolen vehicle earlier this year and pleaded guilty to the charge against him. Concepcion-Roman was given credit for time already served in custody and was released, but with a stipulation to return to court for a follow-up hearing. He never appeared for that hearing, and a warrant for his arrest was issued. Concepcion-Roman is described as being a Hispanic male with black hair and brown eyes. He is 5 feet 10 inches in height and weighs 150 pounds.

(Champaign-jm) – Experience your favorite superhero in a new way when Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Live in Concert plays at State Farm Center on Tuesday, October 10 at 7 p.m., presented by WCIA 3!  Tickets go on sale Friday.

(Champaign-jm) – There have been a rash of pepper spray attacks near the University of Illinois campus. The University of Illinois Police Department sent out a campus safety notice to alert the community of three attacks within a 5-day span. Police said the attacks happened randomly between the hours of midnight and 3 a.m. Until the suspects are caught, U of I police are advising people to travel in groups and be aware of their surroundings near Campustown.  

(Washington-jm) – Rising Brazilian corn production has analysts wondering about the long and short-term effect on U.S. and world corn markets. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Briefs from Illinois and local governments in the consolidated case challenging gun and magazine bans are on file with the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. The city of Chicago says semi-automatic firearms “pose extraordinary risk to law enforcement” and their ordinance addresses “dramatic technological changes and unprecedented societal concerns.” Plaintiffs have argued elsewhere governments can’t balance public interest against constitutional rights of possessing commonly owned firearms. The case is set to be heard June 29.

(Paxton-dg)-A local teacher will compete as a contestant on the popular game show Jeopardy. Paxton Buckley Loda 7th grade Math teacher Collette Lee will compete on the episode that airs today at 3:30pm on NBC.

(Springfield-jm) – No more venue shopping when it comes to constitutional court challenges. Any lawsuits filed against state laws will be limited to just two counties: Cook and Sangamon, under a bill Governor J-B Pritzker signed Tuesday. Representative Jay Hoffman of Swansea (swahn-see) says the idea is to prevent lawyers from choosing a certain court where they think a judge might take their side…

State Representative Jay Hoffman of Swansea. Hoffman says this will also make it easier for the Attorney General’s office, which represents the state in these challenges, to travel to court.

(Springfield-jm) – After an election cycle freeze on the state's taxes for groceries and gasoline, the two taxes, among others, are set to increase beginning July 1. Next month, the state's gas tax will increase by 6.2 cents to a total tax of 45.4 cents, the second increase since January 1. The state's tax on groceries will also go back into effect after Governor J.B. Pritzker put a hold on the tax during last year's election cycle. The gas tax was just 19 cents when Pritzker took office.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill awaiting the Governor’s signature expands a probation program for first time gun offenders. Under the legislation, judges could sentence a person to 6 to 24 months of probation instead of jail time. It was sponsored by Senator Ram Villivalum (villy-vallum) of Chicago…

State Senator Ram Vaillivalum of Chicago. While there were opponents to the bill, some Republicans say it may be needed if a law-abiding gun owner is charged under the state’s tough new firearm laws.

(Urbana-jm) – Urbana Police are looking for a pair of shoplifting suspects and they’re asking the public for help in identifying them. Officials posted to the department Facebook page that the two are accused of taking a large amount of cosmetic and diaper products from a retail store. Officials also shared photos of the suspects, who were caught on camera as they walked into the store. Both appear to be Black females. One had brown hair with golden strands and was wearing a light tank top, black shorts and sandals. The other had black hair with a bow and was wearing a multi-colored shirt, black shorts and sandals. The second suspect was also carrying a maroon handbag.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker is touring the state touting the over 50 billion dollar budget for the upcoming year. The budget was passed in the middle of the night along party lines with zero Republican support. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City shares some of his concerns about the new budget…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City. Democratic lawmakers have yet to send the budget bill to the Governor. The new state budget takes effect July 1st.

(Rantoul-jm) – A 16-year-old is recovering in the hospital after they were hurt in a drive-by shooting Monday night near Rantoul. Officials with the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office reported that the victim arrived at the Rantoul police station around 8:30 p.m. with a gunshot wound to his lower back. Officers immediately rendered aid to the victim before arranging for him to be taken to the hospital. Sheriff’s officials said investigators determined the teen was the passenger of a car that was shot at by someone following in another car. Investigators determined the shooting happened in the area of County Roads 2900N and 1800E, where they found shell casings and vehicle parts from the car that was shot at.

(Hoopeston-jm) – A Hoopeston man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for intimidation. Skyler Burke received the sentence in Vermilion County court after pleading guilty to intimidation and domestic battery. Prosecutors say Burke threatened violence against the mother of his children in front of police.

(Springfield-jm) – With the first round of briefs in the challenge to Illinois’ gun and magazine ban in front of the Seventh U.S. Circuit Court of Appeal, plaintiffs are preparing their filings. Illinois banned more than 170 semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities on January 10. The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals has the consolidated docket of cases from the Southern District and Northern District federal courts where plaintiffs are challenging bans on semi-automatic firearms and magazines over certain capacities. The lower courts were mixed with a preliminary injunction from the Southern District stayed and Northern District judges siding with the state and local governments. The briefs for the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals in the expedited appeal from Cook County, the city of Chicago and the state of Illinois argue the banned weapons pose “extraordinary risks to law enforcement,” are “not commonly used for self-defense,” and that “weapons in common use for criminal purposes may be regulated.” The plaintiffs are set to file their briefs by June 19. Reply briefs are due June 23. The case will be heard June 29.

(Springfield-jm) – No more venue shopping when it comes to constitutional court challenges. The goal is to prevent what’s called “venue shopping” where a suit is filed in a county that might yield the best outcome. Under the bill, constitutional challenges to state laws could only be heard in Sangamon and Cook Counties. Representative Patrick Windhorst of Metropolis opposed the measure…

State Representative Patrick Windhorst of Metropolis. The law comes in response to numerous challenges over the past couple of years such as COVID-19 mandates and the ban on assault weapons.

(Springfield-jm) – Without admitting wrongdoing, Google plans to pay around $95 each to Illinoisans who filed to be part of a class action settlement over violations of the state’s Biometric Privacy Information Act. The Chicago Tribune reports more than 687,000 current and former Illinois residents will get the payment from the $100 million settlement. Google was hit with a BIPA charge for using facial recognition to tag photos without explicit consent.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias’ office is joining 9 other states in a lawsuit against crypto exchange company Coinbase. The suit alleges that Coinbase violated securities laws by illegally selling unregistered investments to more than 140 thousand Illinois clients, says Secretary Giannoulias…

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. If Coinbase had registered what’s called “Staking Offerings”, then consumers would have had a chance to evaluate the risks involved, says Giannoulias.

(Champaign-jm) – In partnership with the Illinois Attorney General’s office and CRIS Healthy Aging Center, State Senator Paul Faraci is co-hosting a senior fraud seminar in Champaign and Danville. The seminar will take place on June 27th at the CRIS Center at 309 North Franklin in Danville at 10 am and at the CRIS Center at 4116 Fieldstone Road in Champaign at 2 pm.

(Springfield-jm) – Several state agencies have faced lots of criticism recently. The two state agencies receiving the most are DCFS and the Illinois Department of Employment Security. But 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City says there’s another one that needs to explain some results of a recent audit…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man is facing charges for damaging the federal and county courthouse. Kim Austin is charged with criminal damage to state property for allegedly breaking the glass doors to the federal courthouse and the Champaign County courthouse in Urbana. Austin allegedly told officers he was off his medications at the time.

(Champaign-jm) – The state is adding nearly 350 electric vehicle charging ports, including some in Central Illinois. Officials of the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency announced they are giving $12.6 million in grants to add 348 fast charging ports in public places across the state. Seven contractors will build 15 charging sites across Sangamon, Champaign, Peoria and McLean Counties. The fast-charging stations will be at places like hotels, gas stations and shopping centers.

(Springfield-jm) –  The price of insulin could soon be set at a reduced rate in Illinois after a House measure passed both chambers unanimously. House Bill 2189 would create the Access to Affordable Insulin Act, which requires the Illinois Department of Insurance to offer a program that allows participants to purchase insulin at a discounted, post-rebate price. The measure originally would have capped the price of insulin at $35 but was amended to the post-rebate price.

(Springfield-jm) – Car manufacturers will be required to set up a 24-hour hotline to help law enforcement track stolen cars after a bill passed both the Illinois House and Senate. Many advocates say this will help reduce the numbers of car theft. 

The measure, House Bill 2245, passed unanimously in both chambers. The bill now goes to the governor’s desk for his signature. The one thing that would be required before the tracking process can get started is the authorization of the vehicle’s owner.

(Springfield-jm) – The new state budget includes an initiative to address homelessness in Illinois. The budget invests more than 360 million dollars into the effort, an 85 million dollar increase over the previous year. Governor J-B Pritzker says “Home Illinois” will include homeless prevention programs, street outreach and more temporary housing…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. The goal is to reach “Functional Zero” as a state, which would mean that there are enough resources to assist everyone about to become homeless.

(Rantoul-jm) – Rantoul Police are investigating a shooting that left three people hurt in April and Crime Stoppers is now involved to help solve the case. Officials said that at 2:50 a.m. on April 30, officers were dispatched to three separate locations in Rantoul for reports of shooting victims. All three victims were treated for their injuries at an area hospital and survived. Officials added after interviewing the victims, officers learned they all attended a party on Heath Drive. They discovered shell casings of various calibers in between Heath Drive and East Perimeter Road.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign Police are investigating after a bank was robbed at gunpoint on Monday. Police officials said the robbery happened at the Midland States Bank on West Springfield Avenue just before 2 p.m. When officers responded to the bank, they were told a suspect had entered the bank, brandished a gun and demanded money. The suspect was given an undisclosed amount of cash and left, officials said. Officials said the suspect appeared to be a man with a medium build; he was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, light gray sweatpants, black shoes, gloves and a black face mask.

(Springfield-jm) – The hot, dry weather is affecting Illinois crops. With virtually no rain this past week, Illinois farmers have now planted 96 percent of soybean acres. 89 percent of the crop emerged, well ahead of previous years. But the condition of the soybean crop declined to 51 percent in good to excellent shape. Statistician Mark Schleusener turns to corn…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. Winter wheat conditions dropped by just a point, to 65 percent in good to excellent condition. Average statewide topsoil moisture also declined, to 29 percent very short, 43 percent short, 27 percent adequate and just one percent surplus.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man has been sentenced to over a decade in prison. Demondre Carter was sentenced to 14 years in prison after being found with a 9 mm handgun with a switch to make it fully automatic. In exchange for his guilty plea, a charge of possession with intent to deliver cannabis was dismissed. 

(Springfield-jm) – As the dry weather continues, a horticulture expert at the University of Illinois Extension offers some advice about watering. Lawns and plants need about one to one and a half inches of water a week, and unless you have a sprinkler and irrigation system or we get some rainfall, that means watering by hand. For trees, the Extension’s Chris Enroth recommends laying a hose about two feet from the trunk and setting the flow to a drip…

U of I Extension Horticulturist Chris Enroth. Enroth says ideally, it’s best to water in the morning when less of the moisture will evaporate. Mulch is a great way to help the soil hold moisture and can even be used in your flower pots.
 

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Supreme Court is poised to hear a challenge to the state’s law consolidating police and firefighter pension funds. The law consolidating about 650 first responder pensions outside of Chicago was enacted in 2019 by Governor J.B. Pritzker. All existing funds were pooled together into two separate funds, one for police and one for firefighters. Each local fund retained a separate account managing operation and the financial condition of each participating pension fund with the power to adjudicate and award retirement and other benefits from the funds. More than a dozen of the hundreds of funds have not consolidated, arguing in court the consolidation takes away local board voting rights for control of the funds. They alleged in a three-count complaint that the law violated the pension protection clause, the contract clause, and the takings clause. The Kane County trial court dismissed the case. Earlier this year, the Appellate Court of Illinois Second District upheld the lower court’s ruling. Last month, the Illinois Supreme Court accepted the plaintiffs’ appeal. It’s not yet known when the case will be heard. 

(Springfield-jm) – A record number of small businesses in Illinois couldn’t pay their rent in full or at all in May. The small business network Alignable reports that 52% of small business owners surveyed weren’t able to pay their rent in full, the highest percentage in the country. That is an 11% increase over April. The second highest percentage was in New York at 49%, followed by Minnesota at 47%. That is compared to 37% nationally.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Public Health is providing air purifiers to head start programs around the state. More than one thousand purifiers are going to 45 different programs to help improve indoor air quality and reduce transmission of viruses, says State Public Health Spokesperson Mike Claffey…

State Public Health Spokesperson Mike Claffey. Along with the air purifiers come replacement filters as well as rapid COVID-19 tests for staff and families served by Head Start and Early Head Start programs.

(Urbana-jm) – The University of Illinois Police Department is sounding the alarm after three people were pepper sprayed in Campustown last week. The UIPD sent out a campus safety notice on Sunday to alert the community of three attacks within a five-day span. All three attacks, officials said, happened randomly between the hours of midnight and 3 a.m. The first attack happened on Wednesday, when a 41-year-old man was attacked while sleeping outside on Sixth Street. Another attack happened Thursday to a 61-year-old man in Scott Park and a third happened Sunday to a 28-year-old man.

(Gibson City-jm) – Gibson City is starting to ease its water restrictions by allowing homeowners a limited opportunity to water their lawns again. The city announced last Wednesday that its public works and police departments would immediately start enforcing an emergency ordinance concerning water use during drought conditions. Under that ordinance, watering lawns was prohibited until further notice. On Monday, Mayor Dan Dickey said on Facebook that homeowners can water their lawns again, but only once per week and on a specific day decided by address. Addresses ending with an even number can water their lawns on Tuesdays. Those ending with an odd number can water their lawns on Thursdays.

(Springfield-jm) – The hot, dry weather is affecting Illinois crops. Temperatures were above normal and rainfall was nearly non-existant this past week. 91 percent of corn has now emerged but just 50 percent of the crop is rated in good to excellent condition. Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener looks at soybeans…

State Crop Statistician Mark Schleusener. 65 percent of winter wheat is rated in good to excellent condition, a slight drop from the previous week. Average statewide topsoil moisture declined to 29 percent very short, 43 percent short, 27 percent adequate and one percent surplus.

(Ford County-jm) – The Ford County Sheriff’s office has released their May activity report. During the month deputies responded to 12 traffic accidents and issued 3 citations for speeding, 2 for DUI and 1 each for illegal transportation of alcohol, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, driving with a revoked license, failure to reduce speed and leaving the scene of an accident. Deputies also handled 14 animal complaints, 13 domestic disputes, 8 welfare checks, 7 reports of a suspicious person, 5 juvenile complaints, 3 each of theft, stolen vehicle and suicidal subject, 2 each of abuse, burglary, hit and run, trespassing, person with a weapon and harassment and 1 each of vandalism, fraud, fight in progress and criminal damage to property.

(Springfield-jm) – May weather was warmer and drier than normal in Illinois. Statewide average rainfall was about two inches below normal, although totals varied widely. State Climatologist Trent Ford says most of Illinois is sitting at 50 percent of normal precipitation for the last month or two…

State Climatologist Trent Ford. The average statewide temperature was just a little above normal. Ford says although there were some warm days, the low humidity made for some cooler nights.

(Springfield-jm) – Before they left for summer break last month, Illinois state legislators approved more than 500 bills. The House filed more than 4,100 bills so far for the 103rd Illinois General Assembly. The Senate filed nearly 2,600. Of those, 346 House bills passed and 220 Senate bills passed both chambers for a total of 566 bills set to be sent to Governor J.B. Pritzker’s desk.

(Washington-jm) – Both Illinois U.S. senators, Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, were in favor of the debt ceiling deal that advanced out of Congress. It was a mixed bag for the House vote. All Illinois Republican congressmen opposed the bill, but Democrats were split. All but three Democrats supported the bill. Representatives Chuy Garcia, Jan Schakowsky and Delia Ramirez voted no.  

(Springfield-jm) – Legislation awaiting the Governor’s signature requires health insurers to cover hearing aids. The bill expands coverage of the devices to include all adults. Right now, only hearing aids for children are paid for. Representative Sharon Chung of Bloomington responded to concerns that this is too costly for healthcare companies…

State Representative Sharon Chung of Bloomington. About 20 other states already have a similar law.

(Undated-jm) – Emergency crews around the county were busy over the weekend. Elliott firefighters were called to a two vehicle accident on the Ford/Champaign County line Friday evening. Saturday morning Gibson City firefighters were called to a two vehicle accident. Saturday afternoon, Roberts and Melvin firefighters were called to a corn bale on fire. Sunday morning, Roberts, Melvin, Gibson City and Elliott firefighters were called to a fire in Melvin.

(Paxton–jc)  City of Paxton leaders continue to work on proper zoning for some houses in Paxton, This project to get the housing lots and homes up to date, has been proceeding for several years. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the process includes notices and more…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Gibson City-jm) – A popular restaurant is bouncing back with a new look. Three weeks ago, a customer eating breakfast at the Blue Star Cafe called 9-1-1 after noticing smoke coming from the building above them. A massive fire broke out, displacing families from nearby apartments and the restaurant. But, the cafe found a new location – 526 S Sangamon Avenue. They plan to reopen Monday, June 5.

(Champaign-jm) – The investigation into a shooting that happened in Champaign in May has pinpointed a suspect. Crime Stoppers is now asking the public for help in identifying him. The shooting happened on May 5 in the area of Springfield Avenue and Kenwood Road. Police officials said that an argument in that area around 11:45 p.m. escalated into shots being fired, and an uninvolved woman was grazed in the hand by a bullet. She was treated at the scene by EMS and did not have to go to the hospital. The person police suspect of having a role in this shooting was recorded on security cameras. He is described as being a Black male approximately 30 to 40 years old with short hair and a goatee. He was last seen wearing a white shirt, white pants and red and white shoes.

(Washington-jm) – How will FY2023 agricultural exports compare to agricultural imports? Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – The state of Illinois has settled a case alleging a pharmaceutical company deployed monopolistic tactics. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced the $102.5 million settlement with 41 other states and Indivior Inc., the maker of the opioid addiction treatment drug Suboxone. The state of Illinois is expected to get $2.9 million from the case.

(Springfield-jm) – The most common crimes Illinois victims endured were theft and assault. Neighborhood Scout compiled data for 2021 and found 51,100 violent crimes in Illinois and 188,000 property crimes for a total of 238,100 crimes. For violent crime, the data shows nearly 4 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, nearly 15 property crimes per 1,000 and nearly 19 overall crimes per 1,000.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation is rebooting the “It’s not a Game” safe driving campaign for 2023. This is the second year for the campaign which plays on old school video games and the notion that on the road, there aren't any extra lives says IDOT Spokesperson Paul Wappel…

IDOT Spokesperson Paul Wappel. There’s also a website: its not a game illinois dot com with more safety tips, videos and an online quiz. So far this year in Illinois, there have been more than 430 traffic fatalities.

(Rantoul-jm) – Rantoul firefighters continue to investigate the cause of a fire that damaged two apartments and a shed last week. Crews responded to the fire Wednesday morning on St. Andrews Circle. The fire started in an exterior storage shed which was destroyed and damaged the exterior of two apartments and one apartment sustained water damage.

(Champaign-jm) – A 34-year-old Champaign man is dead Sunday following a stabbing. The Champaign Police Department reported that officers were dispatched at 6:08 a.m. Sunday morning to the 600-block of West Bradley Avenue after the 34-year-old man arrived at an area hospital with a life-threatening stab wound where he later died. Champaign Police were sent to the man’s address, where they located a crime scene. There, the initial investigation indicates that the victim and 43-year-old Taneshia Brooks of Champaign were involved in a domestic dispute when the victim was stabbed. Champaign Police arrested Brooks for her involvement in this incident. She remains in the custody of the Champaign County Correctional Center, awaiting charges.

(Springfield-jm) – 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City is recapping the state budget. Senator Bennett voted against the budget…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man is under arrest after University of Illinois Police officials said he was caught near campus with a loaded gun and drugs. An officer conducting a patrol spotted a suspicious car with its trunk open and two men carrying a TV away from an apartment complex. The car the officer observed, officials said, belonged to Brandon Turk of Urbana. When the officer stopped to inquire about the situation, officials said he smelled marijuana and alcohol coming from Turk’s car. They also said the officer spotted an open bottle of liquor in the car while the TV was being loaded. This, officers told Turk, gave them legal justification to search the car. Officials said that Turk then locked the car and tried to leave, without success. Upon searching the car, police found a loaded handgun under the driver’s seat, along with illegally packaged cannabis and psilocybin mushrooms. Turk was arrested on charges of armed violence, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, possession of a controlled substance and illegal possession of marijuana. A judge set bond at $50,000.

(Champaign-jm) – The State Farm Center announced the addition of “Thursday Night Live” to its lineup of fall shows.  The comedy event will feature Saturday Night Live head writer and “Weekend Update” co-host Colin Jost, along with very special guests, SNL cast members Andrew Dismukes and Marcello Hernandez.  The trio will make their Champaign appearance on Thursday, September 7  at 7:30 p.m. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.  Tickets go on sale to the public Friday, June 9 at Noon.

(Washington-jm) – The latest U.S. Drought Monitor reveals signs of flash drought in some corn and soybean production areas in the Midwest. Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Director John Kim is encouraging Illinois residents to use caution when outdoors as air quality conditions are expected to be in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category for today, according to the National Air Quality Index. These conditions pose a potential health hazard to sensitive populations, including individuals with respiratory or pulmonary disorders, as well as active children and adults. Sensitive individuals should take special precautions and follow their physician-prescribed regimen. All residents should keep cool and limit physical activity when air quality is low. Possible symptoms related to sensitive groups impacted by low air quality include coughing or shortness of breath.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker says the Invest in Kids program could be revived, but might look a little different. Lawmakers did not vote to expand the private school scholarship program for low income children, which is scheduled to end December 31st. The Governor was asked about it at an unrelated event, and said the parameters need some fine tuning…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. Governor Pritzker says action on the programs is up to the legislature and that if they pass a bill to continue Invest in Kids, he will sign it.

(Springfield-jm) – Despite statehouse corruption on full display with guilty verdicts against four individuals in the “ComEd Four” bribery trial, Illinois legislators left Springfield without sweeping ethics reforms. A former Commonwealth Edison executive and three lobbyists, one being a close confidant of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan were convicted last month. The scheme involved giving do-nothing jobs to Madigan associates in exchange for favorable legislation for the utility. Madgian has pleaded not guilty and faces trial next spring. Governor J.B. Pritzker said prosecutors have the tools they need to catch corrupt actors. Lawmakers aren’t scheduled to return until sometime this fall.

(Springfield-jm) – The $50.6 billion state spending plan for the fiscal year that begins July 1st, passed the Illinois House early Saturday, with only the support of Democrats who drafted it. House Republicans chose not to vote for the budget bill for numerous reasons.  Including Democrats neglecting two House GOP priorities; giving families a break in the estate tax, and failing to fund the Invest in Kids program, which gives donors a tax credit for contributing to a state fund that pays for low-income scholarships for low-income students. State Representative Mike Marron of Fithian says the budget doesn’t help struggling families…

State Representative Mike Marron of Fithian.

(Paxton-jm) – The Ford County Sheriff’s Office celebrated the retirement of one of their own. Joe Mobley retired after 22 years. Mobley started as a maintenance worker in 2001 before becoming a correctional officer in 2006, a position he’s held until his retirement.

(Rantoul-jm) – Changes could be coming to an intersection in Rantoul. Starting today, IDOT will cover the traffic signals at the intersection of U-S 136 and Lon Drive on the far east side of the village for 90 days. The signals are being covered as part of a traffic study to investigate whether they should be removed permanently. Stop signs will be placed at the intersection for safety during the study period.

(Washington-jm) – Recent and, in some cases, continuing dryness is raising Midwest grower concerns about future conditions for their Spring planted crops. Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – The first signs of West Nile Virus are popping up in Illinois. So far three batches of mosquitos have tested positive for the virus, all in Cook County, says State Department of Public Health Spokesperson Mike Claffey…

State Department of Public Health Spokesperson Mike Claffey. Last year, the West Nile Virus was detected in 44 Illinois counties. There were 34 reported human cases and 8 deaths. Seniors and people with a weakened immune system are the most likely to have complications if they are infected.

(Springfield-jm) – Despite a suggestion by the Illinois Supreme Court that the legislature needs to address concerns about excessive damage awards connected to the Biometric Information Privacy Act, nothing has changed. Business groups have been pleading with lawmakers to address the law, which has spawned hundreds of lawsuits. A measure that included a 50% increase in the minimum penalty businesses faced for violating BIPA was roundly criticized by business and health care groups. The bill never made it to either chamber. Illinois is the only state that allows individuals the right to sue over the improper collection of biometric data.

(Springfield-jm) – The $50.6 billion state spending plan for the fiscal year that begins July 1st, passed the Illinois House early Saturday, with only the support of Democrats who drafted it. House Republicans chose not to vote for the budget bill for numerous reasons.  Including Democrats neglecting two House GOP priorities; giving families a break in the estate tax, and failing to fund the Invest in Kids program, which gives donors a tax credit for contributing to a state fund that pays for low-income scholarships for low-income students.  What the Democrats did choose to include was millions of dollars on healthcare for undocumented immigrants.  That program will cost the state over $1 billion in 2024. The budget also includes pay raises and cost of living increases for legislators to $89,675 base-level salaries per year. State Representative Dan Caulkins of Decatur…

State Representative Dan Caulkins of Decatur.

(Ludlow-jm) – A Ludlow man has been sentenced to 8 years in prison for sexually abusing two girls. 30 year old Ronald Dulske pleaded guilty in both cases. Prosecutors asked for the maximum allowed sentence of 14 years.

(Gibson City-jm) – Gibson City is under a boil water order after a major water main break. An 8 inch pipe broke near State and Sangamon Thursday morning. Water had to be shut off in the area so crews could fix it.

(Washington-jm) – USDA's farm prices report for April continues the trend of most agricultural products bringing producers lower prices than a year ago. Gary Crawford reports…

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

Paxton townwide garage sales will take place today and tomorrow.

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting the Knights of Columbus on Saturday from 10-2.

Logan Kirby will perform at the Melvin Community Hall on Saturday. Cost is $10 for adults 13 and older. Doors open at 5:30 with the concert beginning at 7.

(Springfield-jm) – The bravery of law enforcement officers from around the state was honored at a medal of honor ceremony in Springfield Wednesday. 136 officers from 41 police agencies received recognition for their acts of heroism. Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly spoke to the crowd…

Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly. The medal of honor is awarded to officers who have been killed or seriously injured in the line of duty or who have shown exceptional bravery on the job. This was the first time the ceremony was held since 2016. Fallen Champaign Police Officer Chris Oberheim and his partner, now retired, Officer Jeffrey Creel were recognized.

(Springfield-jm) – In the near future while you are attending a festival in Illinois, you may notice an eye in the sky in the form of a drone.  The Drones as First Responders Act has passed the Illinois General Assembly to allow police agencies to use drones to monitor large special events, like parades and festivals. State Senator Julie Morrison, was a cosponsor of House Bill 3902. She was inspired after last year's Highland Park July 4 mass shooting. Morrison and her family were riding in the parade when shots rang out. The ACLU of Illinois, said they were initially opposed to the idea until restrictions on what events were included. Police are not allowed to use drones at political protests, demonstrations or other First Amendment-protected gatherings. Another stipulation of the legislation is that the footage must be erased within 24 hours unless a crime is captured. Police agencies also must publicly post their drone program usage at least 24 hours in advance.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker is traveling the state promoting the new fiscal year 24 budget. The Governor made stops in Springfield and Champaign Wednesday, with more scheduled in the coming days. He’s highlighting major investments in Illinois colleges and universities…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. That includes the state’s college MAP grant and AIM High programs. The Governor says the budget also has more money for kindergarten through high school education, with a focus on getting kids off to a good start at a quality preschool.

(Rantoul-jm) – A missing juvenile from Memphis, Tennessee was found in a vehicle in Rantoul on Wednesday. The Rantoul Police Department says at 11:23 a.m., the Rantoul Police Department was alerted by Flock ALPR cameras of a vehicle associated with a missing person. Further investigation indicated the vehicle was believed to be involved with a parental abduction from Shelby County, Tennessee. Officers located the vehicle and found Shirley L. Webb, 27, and two juveniles and learned one of the juveniles was reported as missing/endangered. Webb was arrested on a Shelby County, Tennessee Arrest Warrant for the offense of Felony Custodial Interference and taken to the Champaign County Jail.

(Gibson City-jm) – A bill that provides a tax credit for firefighters and other first responders is moving forward. The bill was co-sponsored by 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Gibson City-jm) – Due to increasing drought conditions, Gibson City is limiting water usage. The city announced Wednesday that effective immediately watering lawns is prohibited and will be enforced by the police and water department. The restriction is in effect until further notice.

(Champaign-jm) – The City of Champaign announced that one eastbound lane of Bradley Avenue will be closed beginning around 7 a.m. today. The closure, between State Street and Randolph Street, is so crews can perform storm sewer lining. City officials said eastbound traffic on Bradley Avenue will be merged into a single lane through a short construction work zone.

(Paxton–jc)  Local power cooperative E I E C is hosting three member events in June. The first is today in Tuscola says E I E C Marketing Specialist Melinda Garrelts…

E I E C Marketing Specialist Melinda Garrelts

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois lawmakers have voted to cap the rising cost of insulin. The legislature passed a bill limiting the cost of a 30 day supply of insulin to $35. It was sponsored by Senator Laura Murphy of Des Plaines who says although more than one million Illinoisans need the medication, some just can’t afford it…

State Senator Laura Murphy of Des Plaines. This applies to all individual private and group health insurance. The Governor still needs to sign this bill into law.

(Springfield-jm) – Cities across Illinois have long sought a full restoration of Local Government Distributive Fund payments back to cities. They’re getting some, but not all of what they requested. Decades ago, 10% of every income tax dollar the state collected was remitted back to cities. For years, that has been reduced. The $50.6 billion annual budget plan for the coming fiscal year that state legislators approved last year increases LGDF from 6.16% to 6.47%, but not the full 10%. 

The Illinois Municipal League said while full restoration of LGDF continues to be their top priority, the incremental increase is substantial. The state’s next fiscal year begins July 1. Legislators have yet to transmit the budget bills to the governor for his approval.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation is asking for patience and planning if you’re traveling near the metro east’s Enjoy Illinois 300 event this weekend. The event includes the NASCAR Cup and Truck series races, concerts and more. IDOT Spokesperson Paul Wappel says more than 65 thousand people are expected to attend the World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison…

IDOT Spokesperson Paul Wappel. More information about the Enjoy Illinois 300 is available at: w-w-t-raceway dot com.

(Urbana-jm) – A teenager arrested on Tuesday in connection to an Urbana murder in March made his first court appearance on Wednesday. The 14-year-old suspect was charged with two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm. Another 14-year-old was arrested and charged in March, and police believe he’s the one who fired the gun that killed 16-year-old Montrell Emery the morning of March 15. Police are also looking for a third suspect, who is 16 years old.

(Springfield-jm) – The $50.6 billion state spending plan for the fiscal year that begins July 1st, passed the Illinois House early Saturday, with only the support of Democrats who drafted it. House Republicans chose not to vote for the budget bill for numerous reasons.  Including Democrats neglecting two House GOP priorities; giving families a break in the estate tax, and failing to fund the Invest in Kids program, which gives donors a tax credit for contributing to a state fund that pays for low-income scholarships for low-income students. State Representative Mike Marron of Fithian says the budget isn’t as fiscally responsible as Democrats have claimed…

State Representative Mike Marron of Fithian.

(Rantoul-jm) – More than 300 people packed the Village of Rantoul pool, making for a chaotic weekend. Village leaders responded with some new rules. Kids under 12 years old now need to be with someone at least 16 years old. The Hap Parker Family Aquatic Center say they picked this age, so teens babysitting for the summer can still bring the children they watch to the pool.

(Hoopeston-jm) – A juvenile in Hoopeston is facing multiple charges. Hoopeston police were notified of a stolen vehicle in the 700 block of South First Avenue. Police located the vehicle and arrested the 17 year old driver on charges of theft of a motor vehicle, aggravated fleeing and eluding, reckless driving and no drivers license.