(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced Thursday that the unemployment rate ticked up to 4.8% in February. The national unemployment rate was 3.9% in February. Based on preliminary data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nonfarm payrolls increased by 23,100 last month. In February, the industry sectors with the largest over-the-month job gains included government, construction and leisure and hospitality.

(Washington-jm) – The Agriculture Secretary says USDA will need a Little bigger budget next year. Gary Crawford reports…

(Undated-jm) – An incumbent state representative has declared victory in his primary election race. Adam Niemerg and his challenger Jim Acklin both ran as write-in candidates. Niemerg was kicked off the ballot for failing to notarize his candidate paperwork. Niemerg posted on Facebook Wednesday, declaring victory. Acklin conceded in a Facebook post Thursday afternoon.

(Mansfield-jm) – Blue Ridge Intermediate in Mansfield was placed on lockdown after a nearby explosion and manhunt. The explosion and subsequent fire happened around 2 p.m. at a house on Oliver Street between West and Washington Streets. Officials with the Blue Ridge school district said on Facebook that they were informed of a manhunt related to the explosion. The Intermediate Junior High School went on a soft lockdown, which was lifted at 3:15 p.m.

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton’s historic pump house in downtown will be getting a tank added later this summer. Stan Foster is building the tank at his shop west of Paxton. He says it is a major time consuming project…

Stan Foster of rural Paxton. Phil Foster from Foster’s Mechanics will add a roof to it. The Paxton Foundation is seeking donations for the tank, which will be 16 feet tall and 28 feet at the base. Donations are being accepted at The Frederick Community Bank.

(Urbana-jm) – Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski announced that the University of Illinois has been awarded $7.5 million in federal grant funding for the study of permafrost using new technology. These funds are awarded through the Department of Defense’s Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative. The project, called Interdisciplinary Material Science for the Hyperspectral Remote Sensing of Permafrost, will study permafrost properties through newly developed experimental tools including remote sensing, light polarization and electromagnetic theory. The University team will explore the various physical and chemical properties of permafrost under current and changing environmental conditions and will have implications for global climate research.

(Paxton–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day today is Baier Family Funeral Services. The local funeral home has locations in Paxton, Buckley and Flatville. Baier Family Funeral Services Owner Royce Baier provides information about their service area…

Royce Baier talks about the process of providing the services for the families…

Baier Family Funeral Services Owner Royce Baier. Baier Family Funeral Services of Paxton Buckley and Flatville is the WPXN Business of the day, today. 

(Springfield-jm) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker will be departing Sunday for an economic development mission to California to promote Illinois to business and film industry leaders. Pritzker, alongside representatives from the Illinois Film Office and Illinois Production Alliance, will meet with film studios and distributors to discuss increased opportunities for investment in Illinois. Officials said the governor will depart to Los Angeles for several days of meetings with film studio executives and production companies to discuss Illinois’ tax credit for film production and other incentives for the film industry.

(Washington-jm) – Projects to boost struggling rural economies are showing signs of success. Gary Crawford reports…

(Urbana-jm) – The University of Illinois Police Department is asking for help in identifying a person they believe to be responsible for recent campus vandalisms. Officials said that around 1 a.m. on March 12, security cameras recorded a person spray painting multiple dumpsters, lighting control boxes and map posts on Sixth, John and Wright Streets in Campustown. The damage spanned at least two blocks and required multiple hours of work to repair or remove the paint.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign school board convened a special meeting on Wednesday to discuss not one, but two vacancies. On Tuesday, the board scheduled a special meeting to discuss the vacancy left by former Vice President Jamar Brown earlier this month. However, on Tuesday night Mark Thies sent out his resignation letter to the Champaign School District Board of Education and superintendent, leaving the district now with two vacancies to fill. Brown and Thies both cited the climate of the board in their resignation letters.

(Champaign—dm)  The late Senator John McCain and Pope Francis are among the public figures who have dealt with diverticular disease. It’s a common problem involving bugles in the digestive tract. But it’s one that can have serious complications if not treated properly. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has more from a local doctor.

 Severe cases may mean a stay in the hospital for antibiotic medicine or surgery. Doctor Rzepczynski [rep-ZIN-skee] also stresses the importance of colonoscopies as advised by your health care provider.

(Champaign-jm) – State Senator Paul Faraci is joining Illinois legislative leaders in Washington calling on the U-S Postmaster General to stop possible plans to close the mail processing facility in Champaign and move operations to the Chicago area. Faraci joined other state lawmakers in the letter that would affect 5 processing facilities in the state. In both letters, the lawmakers say the closure would impact not only employees but also the public.

WPXN News Notes…

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will have a food drive in Ford County today from 9-9:30 across from the Piper City Community Building, 10-10:30 at Living Word Church in Roberts, 11-11:30 across from the Melvin Convenient Store, 12:15-12:45 at the Gibson City city hall, 1-1:30 at the Elliott village hall and 2-2:30 at Paxton Hardware and Rental.

Clove Alliance will hold Cosmic Bingo this evening at the Expo Center at the Kankakee Fairgrounds. Doors open at 4:30 with Bingo beginning at 6:30. Tickets are $35 and includes 6 Bingo cards, glo hat and Bingo dauber. Tickets are available by calling 815-932-7273.

Paxton IGA will hold their cookout benefiting Girl Scouts Troop 2728 on Saturday from 10-2.

The Gifford Fire Department will hold their annual pancake and sausage breakfast on Sunday from 7-noon at the German Fall Festival Building.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Primary Day 2024 did not feature many races and the voter turnout was low, and now a Republican legislative leader says you can blame the Democrats’ gerrymandered maps. The voter turnout is being described as shockingly low and is expected to be below 20%. Senate Minority Leader John Curran said if Governor J.B. Pritzker would have kept his word regarding the drawing of legislative maps, Illinois voters would be more engaged. Curran said Illinois voters should play a part in drawing up the maps, not politicians. Election Day is Tuesday, November 5.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois lawmakers could pass a plan this year to give more power to the office responsible for investigating wrongdoing in state government. The legislation could allow the Executive Inspector General to make summary statements about allegations, violations and recommendations to address corruption. This office is already responsible for investigating fraud, abuse of power and violations of rules or laws. However, the top investigator told the House Ethics & Elections Committee Wednesday that Illinois should also strengthen integrity in the workforce.

(Springfield-jm) – A new report shows fraud cases are on the rise. The report shows a 30 percent increase over the past year. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City talks about the report and shares some tips to keep you safe…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Rantoul-jm) – The Rantoul Fire Department invited the community to an open viewing of their upgraded fire station last night. After nearly 50 years, Station No. 2 was long overdue for a facelift. The Rantoul Board voted unanimously in April 2023 to put $750,000 of the village’s American Rescue Plan Act funds towards the firehouse project.

(Urbana-jm) – An Illini Alert went out last evening after a suspicious package was found at Mumford Hall on the U of I campus. The alert notified people to stay away. The all clear was given about an hour later.

(Paxton–jc)  Paxton city leaders continue to look at a storm drainage project for areas of the city. The price tag is expected to be around 7 million dollars. With the cost and putting the extensive project together, city leaders are looking at all facets of proposals and timelines. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says they are gathering more information, and the project will be discussed at the council’s April meeting…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Iroquois County-jm) – The Iroquois County Board discussed Governor JB Pritzker’ budget proposal to eliminate the Illinois sales tax on groceries statewide. County, cities, and township government could take quite a hit without that local tax revenue. Among the questions board members have is where that lost revenue would come from ?  Eliminating the grocery tax could erase upwards of $600,000 - $800,000 in revenue at the County level.

(OSF—dm)  World Oral Health Day on March 20th is a reminder to start healthy habits early with kids. That’s because the consequences can impact the entire body. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has more from a Danville expert.

(Kankakee–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Clove Alliance. The non-profit group helps survivors of sexual violence and serves Kankakee, Iroquois and Ford Countys. Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracy Noe-Slah  (no-eee slaw) talks about the services, offered…

Tracy  says that additional funding is always needed and they have a Cosmic Bingo Event at the Kankakee County Fairgrounds on Friday…

Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracy Noe-Slah

You can hear more about the group on our newscasts today and an interview with Tracy during the noon news.

The Crisis Hotline number is 1 815-932-3322

Clove Alliance is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

(Springfield-jm) – The Pritzker administration is working to justify to Illinois legislators the proposed $52.7 billion budget and Governor J.B. Pritzker’s ability to transfer funds unilaterally. During a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing in Springfield Wednesday, state Sen. Chapin Rose of Mahomet, said historically, governors have had a 2% transfer power, but then it increased to 4% and now it’s up to 8%. Rose said it makes it hard to see where taxpayer money is going. Rose specifically pointed out that last fiscal year, $1.2 million went to the new agency, The Governor's Office of New Americans. Alexis Sturm, director of the Governor's Office of Management and Budget, said the law allows the office to only transfer funds operationally and that the Illinois Department of Human Services hasn’t utilized the 8% transfer authority. Rose pointed out that spending on healthcare for migrants is estimated at $725 million in fiscal year 2024 and $629 million is proposed for fiscal year 2025. Direct support for migrants over the last couple of fiscal years was $682 million, but in the 2025 fiscal year it is proposed for $182 million.

(Springfield-jm) – A scathing audit shows that the Illinois Department of Public Health dropped the ball in its response to a COVID-19 outbreak at the LaSalle Veterans' Home. Thirty-six veterans died during the outbreak in November 2020. The Illinois Auditor General concluded that IDPH failed to respond in a timely manner. The audit also found that IDPH didn’t offer any advice or assistance on how to slow the spread of the virus at the home. State Sen. Chapin Rose, of Mahomet, said IDPH needs to be held accountable for this tragedy. Dozens of lawsuits were filed by the victims' families against the state of Illinois, the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs and the facility itself. Rose said the Pritzker administration is also to blame.

(Springfield-jm) – Aimed at addressing the critical shortcomings in Illinois’ efforts to combat human trafficking and provide essential protections for victims, Illinois House Republicans have introduced the “Protect Victims of Human Trafficking Legislative Package.” Dean Abbott reports…

(Undated-jm) – On Wednesday, 19 different organizations received a share of 1.8 million dollars in Local Food infrastructure grant funding through the Illinois Stewardship Alliance. These programs include: Down at the Farms in Fairbury and throughout central Illinois. They are receiving $110,00 to purchase a delivery vehicle and expand cooler and freezer space to better deliver central Illinois produce to chefs and grocers. Allen's Farm Quality Meats in Homer and serving Champaign and Danville. They are receiving $150,000 to increase the capacity to process meats and reduce current wait times of 12 to 18 months. Living Light Farms in Paxton. They are receiving $43,800 to purchase a mobile freezer and truck so they can transport products to the community.

(Kankakee-jm) – Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 1 arrested 35-year-old Kenneth L. Brown of Kankakee for three counts of Possession of Child Pornography. On March 6, agents executed a search warrant at a residence in the 4800 block of West Doris Drive in Kankakee.  Evidence of Child Pornography was gathered as a result of the search warrant.  On March 20, after an extensive investigation, the Kankakee County State’s Attorney’s Office approved the above charges against Brown.  Agents took Brown into custody and transported him to the Kankakee County Jail.

(ford county–dm)-Ford County is developing a plan to reduce the damages caused by severe weather such as floods, snow and ice storms, tornados and other events.  The plan is called a Hazard Mitigation Plan and the process to develop it is being funded through a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Terry Whitebird, Coordinator of the Ford County Emergency Management Agency explains.

Terry Whitebird Coordinator of the Ford County Emergency Management Agency.  The Planning committee will hold its first meeting Tuesday, April 9th at 6:00pm at the Roberts gym located at 118 W. Weldon St. in Roberts and is open to the public.

(Fairbury-jm) – The Fairbury Fair Board is excited to announce the Friday Night Fair Concert lineup. Headlining the night of August 16th is multi-platinum entertainer Sara Evans, the fifth most-played female artist on country radio in nearly the last two decades. Her five No. 1 singles include “No Place That Far,” “Suds in The Bucket, " “A Real Fine Place to Start,” “Born to Fly,” and “A Little Bit Stronger.” KayLyn Pace, a Nashville singer, songwriter, and musician, will open for Evans. She is a highly energetic entertainer with a love for people and vocal strength that captivates her listeners. Tickets start at just $20 and will be available online at www.thefairburyfair.com beginning at 8 AM on Friday, March 22, 2024.

(Washington-jm) – What's putting a damper on free trade agreement efforts? Gary Crawford reports…

WPXN News Notes…

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will have a food drive in southern Iroquois County today from 9-9:30 at the Abbe Insurance in Buckley, 10-10:30 at Durham Park in Onarga, 11-11:30 at the Crescent City community building, 12:30-1 at Runnings in Watseka, 1:30-2 at Milford Town and Country.

The Paxton Emergency Response Service will hold their all you can eat chicken and noodle supper this evening from 4:30-6:30 pm. Cost is $11 for adults, kids 6-13 $6. Meal includes chicken and noodles, mashed potatoes, green beans, dessert and drink. Deliveries are available in town by calling 217-202-6441.

(undated–jc)  Illinois voters went to the polls on Tuesday for the Spring primary election. 

In the 53rd district State Senate race, 4 candidates were vying for the Republican position on the ballot. Chris Balkema was leading the way in the race to replace retiring State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

In Champaign County the nominee for Champaign County Coroner for the Democrat party is Laurie Brauer

In Iroquois County…Michael Quinlan is the Republican nominee for Iroquois County State’s attorney. 

In Vermilion county…Matthew Long is the Republican candidate for Vermilion County Recorder

In Ford County…Republican Incumbent Kasi Schwartz won a close race for the party nomination for Ford County Circuit Clerk

For the Ford County Board seats, newcomer Kelsie Vaughn and incumbent Tom McQuinn won seats in District 1. In District 2, newcomer Greg Niewold and incumbent Cindy Ihrke won seats.

WIth the two sales tax issues for Ford County voters…

The County wide one percent sales tax to support local schools failed by a vote of 1531 no votes to 1211 yes votes.

In Gibson City, voters approved a one percent non-home rule tax with 457 yes votes to 350 no votes

(Springfield-jm) – Data released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation shows that Illinois experienced an increase in internet crimes last year. The FBI reports the number of victim complaints in Illinois rose 6% from 2022 to last year. There was also an increase in the amount of money lost by 20%. Nearly $336 million was lost to internet crimes in 2023. The top three types of internet scams in 2023 were investment fraud, business phishing attacks and tech support scams.

(Springfield-jm) – Most county clerks and recorders in Illinois could get a pay increase. A state lawmaker introduced a measure that would change the way county clerks and recorders across the state get their taxpayer-funded salaries. The Illinois Association of County Clerks and Recorders is a proponent of Senate Bill 2131 from state Sen. Doris Turner, D-Springfield, which says clerks have to be paid at least 80% of what the state’s attorney in that county is paid and that the pay is to mostly come from state taxpayer funds.

(Springfield-jm) – Last week was a busy week at the state capitol. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett is looking for feedback from constituents…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Washington-jm) – Democratic members of Congress representing Illinois are fighting to keep mail processing centers in the state open. U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, along with U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley, Eric Sorensen and Nikki Budzinski, wrote to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy. In the letter, the Congressional members urged him to reconsider his decision to eliminate the Processing and Distribution Centers in Champaign, Peoria, Milan, and Springfield.

(Washington-jm) – Consumer demand for pork is projected to rise this year. Gary Crawford reports…

(Rantoul–jc)  Rantoul firefighters were called to another fire in the Mahoning Drive area of the village just before noon Tuesday. The blaze occurred at 12 Mahoning drive. That area of Rantoul has been the site of several different fires this year. No word was provided on damages or cause.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign Police were dispatched at 7:34 p.m. on Monday, to the 2500 block of W. Springfield Avenue for a report of shots fired. As officers arrived in the area and began searching for evidence of a shooting, they located a 46-year-old Champaign man in medical distress unrelated to the initial call and immediately rendered aid while calling for medical transport. The man was transported to an area hospital for treatment and while there, it was determined that a wound on his arm had been caused by a gunshot. The man was treated and released. The initial investigation indicates that the victim was entering an apartment building when he was approached by three unknown subjects who quickly opened fire. The subjects then fled the area and have not been located at this time.

(Paxton–jc)  The WPXN Business of the Day today is Hudson Drug and Hallmark Shop, located in downtown Paxton. Owner Andy Hudson says he is the third generation, Hudson owner, of the store…

Hudson says they are gearing up for Easter and Spring…

Hudson Drug provides pharmacy delivery to dozens of towns and cities including to Onarga, Gilman, Hoopeston, Rantoul Thomasboro, Cissna Park, Rankin, Champaign, Buckley Potomac and more  You can hear more about Hudson Drug and Hallmark Shop throughout the day today. Hudson Drug and Hallmark Shop is the WPXN Business of the day today. 

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Lottery on Tuesday announced results for the first six months of the 2024 fiscal year, in which the Lottery has generated $1.9 billion in sales leading to estimated returns to the State of Illinois of $456 million so far.

(Springfield-jm) – The 2024 Illinois spring trout fishing season will open Saturday, April 6th at 58 ponds, lakes, and streams throughout the state. An early opportunity at select trout sites – the spring catch-and-release fishing season – will open Saturday, March 23rd. No trout may be kept during the catch-and-release period, but anglers can keep trout after the opening of the regular season beginning April 6th. The daily harvest limit for each angler is five trout.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker is proposing eliminating the state’s grocery tax. The tax was suspended during the COVID pandemic but now the Governor wants to make it permanent. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting supports the measure under one condition…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man is facing charges after he allegedly threatened his mother with a hammer. Troy Burke is facing charges in Champaign County court after authorities say he was wielding a hammer to steal cash from his mother after she evicted him for drug and alcohol abuse.

(Washington-jm) – This year's farm income may end up being higher than current projections. Gary Crawford reports…

(Savoy-jm) – On Monday, at approximately 11:20 p.m. the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of gunshots fired in the area of Prairie Fields Park, Savoy. Deputies searched for evidence of a shooting and located shell casings in the intersection of Gentian and Prairie Rose. A short time later, the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office was notified that a shooting victim arrived by car at Carle Foundation Hospital. The 18-year-old male victim from Savoy sustained a single gunshot wound to the upper torso area of his body and is in stable condition. While at Carle, deputies learned a male subject left the vehicle on foot eastbound on University Avenue. An Urbana police officer located a subject matching the description of the subject who left on foot in the 500 block of West University Avenue, Urbana. A firearm was located on this male subject who was 17 years of age and from Savoy. He was arrested and taken to the Juvenile Detention Center where he was charged with Unlawful Use of a Firearm and Defacing Identifying Marks on a Firearm.

(Champaign-jm) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is getting involved in a case that alleges the Champaign Unit 4 School District violated the Open Meetings Act. The letter claims the district held a meeting on February 12 where anyone in attendance was welcome to publicly address the Board. Recordings of the meeting show one member was allowed to speak for over the allotted three minutes and had her microphone turned back on, while other speakers were cut off when their time was up. In the letter, the Attorney General requested that the board or a representative of the board provide a written response to the allegations, including an explanation and the board’s basis for any restriction of the speakers. Raoul also requested the board send copies of the board’s public comment policies, all available open session recordings, and the agenda and minutes from the meeting.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced that more than 190 teams of assistant attorneys general and investigators from his office will be monitoring the primary election throughout the state to ensure that voters’ rights are protected and polling places are accessible. Raoul urged voters to call his office if they encounter suspected improper or illegal activity.

(Washington-jm) – As TikTok faces an uncertain future in the U.S., an Illinois congressman is explaining why he voted “yes” on a bill to force the social media company to part ways with its Chinese parent company ByteDance. U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood said it is too risky to allow the Chinese Communist Party to have a backdoor for harvesting information on Americans. LaHood said it is shocking that 45% of Gen-Zers get their news from TikTok, especially during an election year.

(Springfield-jm) – The latest unemployment numbers are out and it shows the state is still lagging behind neighboring states. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington explains…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington.

(Normal-jm) – The Illinois State University Board of Trustees named Dr. Aondover Tarhule as the University’s 21st president Monday. Trustees also approved a four-year contract for Tarhule that will expire March 17, 2028. Tarhule served a year-long appointment as interim president. He joined Illinois State University in 2020 as vice president for academic affairs and provost, also serving as a professor in the Department of Geography, Geology, and the Environment.

(Paxton–jc)  Paxton leaders have made it easier for someone to participate in open meetings with a new decision put into place at this month’s meeting of the Paxton City Council. Local leaders approved a remote path for people to remote into meetings that goes along with Section 7 of the Open Meetings Act.Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the new process allows more access to meetings…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold.

(Urbana-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is seeking assistance from the public regarding a burglary. On February 29th, police officers responded to Dust & Son Auto Supplies at 1702 North Cunningham Avenue in Urbana for a reported burglary. Upon arrival, officers learned two suspects forced entry into the closed business after breaking the front door window. The suspects went directly to the power tools section and stole 16 chainsaws. The suspects loaded the stolen equipment into a vehicle and fled north on Cunningham Avenue. Police seek the public’s assistance in identifying the subjects captured on video. The first suspect was described as a thin, light skinned male wearing a green sweat suit, white tennis shoes and a black balaclava mask. The second suspect was described as a black male with dreadlocks, wearing a black jacket, white gloves, black sweatpants with white stripes, black and white tennis shoes and a black balaclava mask. The suspect’s vehicle appeared to be a white 2016-2019 Honda Civic with a dent in the driver’s door and a scuff mark in front of the driver’s side front wheel.

(Washington-jm) – How much of last years grain and oilseed crops remain unsold and in storage? We'll have a better idea about that in just a few days. Gary Crawford reports…

(Undated–jc)  It’s election day in Illinois, the Spring Primary. Polls are open and voters are electing party members for some county offices. There is a 4 way race in the 53rd State Senate district as current State Senator Tom Bennett is retiring at the end of this year. Voters in Ford County are being asked to support a one percent sales tax to support schools and voters in Gibson City also have a support the pool question on the ballot. Polls close at 7 tonight. 

(Springfield-jm) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed an Executive Order to create a framework for financing and expanding access to new therapies and drugs, like the recently approved gene therapies for sickle cell disease. The executive order tasks the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services with leading the state’s effort to establish payment models and financial structures that support access to new sickle cell disease treatments and other new high cost drugs. Sickle cell disease is a group of lifelong, inherited blood disorders that affect more than 5,000 Illinois residents.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois business owners are bracing for a potential tax hit from Gov. J.B. Pritzker. The governor’s proposed budget extends the cap on business net operating losses, but increases the cap to $500,000. His office estimates the “revenue adjustment” will raise $526 million, the bulk of the nearly $900 million of tax increases in his $52.7 billion spending proposal. Illinois Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Lou Sandoval said this would take funds from businesses to finance government.

(Springfield-jm) – House Minority Leader Tony McCombie held a capitol press conference recently to discuss the ongoing issues at the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and to present their legislative package to provide solutions. Dean Abbott reports…

(Roberts-jm) – Roberts Melvin firefighters were called to a vehicle fire Monday night. Crews were called to the fire on Route 115 and 1400 north around 9:45. There’s no word on if there were any injuries.

(Paxton–jc)  Today is Primary election day across the state of Illinois. Area county leaders have been busy preparing for the March 19 election. Ford County Clerk Amy Frederick encourages everyone to exercise their right to vote…

Ford County Clerk Amy Frederick. The polls opened at 6 this morning and close at 7 pm.

(Champaign-jm) – The State Farm Center announced Monday that Justin Moore will perform on Friday, September 13 at 8pm as part of the 2024 University of Illinois Homecoming Weekend. Special guest Tenille Arts will open. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets go on sale to the public Friday, March 22 at 12pm.

(Washington-jm) – Increased Springtime holiday demand for eggs and smaller supplies are helping drive up egg prices at the grocery store. Gary Crawford reports…

(Paxton–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is the Paxton Foundation. The group was formed in 1984 to preserve the old water tower structure in downtown Paxton. The group has maintained the area and among other projects. The next project is to renovate the structure called “crown of the town.” The 100 thousand dollar project will see the rebuilding of the tank on top of the water tower building. Paxton Foundation Member Royce Baier talks about the history of the building…

Paxton Foundation Member Royce Baier

Paxton Foundation Member and Ford County Historical Society President Judy Popel says the building is home to a museum…

Paxton Foundation Member  and Ford County Historical Society President Judy Popel

You can hear more about the Crown on the Town project on all newscasts today and an interview with Paxton Foundation Members during the noon news.

The Paxton Foundation is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

(Springfield-jm) – After tomorrow’s Democrat and Republican primary elections, Illinois legislators return to Springfield to continue crafting a plan to spend tens of billions of tax dollars. The total budget could be $123.2 billion with most coming from federal taxpayer funds. Gov. J.B. Pritzker looks to spend $52.7 billion of state taxpayer money for the next fiscal year. Officials from the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget met with legislators recently and fielded questions about a billion dollars in proposed tax increases. The proposed changes range from increased sports betting fees that’s projected to raise $200 million, $101 million in reductions of the discount retailers get for collecting sales taxes, and even changes to how much corporate losses can be credited with an estimated increase in taxes of $526 million. That’s with the expectation for lower corporate tax receipts in the coming fiscal year. Pritzker officials said personal income taxes are the bulk of income and that remains strong. There was also discussion of the $175 million shift from statewide road funds to Chicago-area transit. Officials said it’s allowable with the state’s transportation fund lockbox amendment voters approved years ago. Legislators return Wednesday. The next budget year begins July 1.

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton will be getting a new old water tower but it won’t hold water. A wood tank will be added to the pump house in downtown Paxton. It is a renovation project with the Paxton Foundation. Paxton Businessman Stan Foster is building the tank. He talks about his inspiration for the project…

Stan Foster of rural Paxton. The base will be 22 feet with the tank being 16 feet tall. Foster said the whole tank and base will be assembled on the ground before being lifted into place with a crane. The Paxton Foundation is accepting donations to help fund the project. Donations are being accepted at The Frederick Community Bank.

(Gibson City-jm) – Gibson City firefighters were called to a kitchen fire Sunday evening. Crews were called to the 300 block of East 8th Street just before 8:30. No injuries were reported.

(Gilman–dm)--The city of Gilman has several projects going on.  With the downtown renovation complete, a drainage and street renovation project is about 95% complete.  Gilman Mayor Rick Theesefield explains.

Gilman Mayor Rick Theesfield

(Champaign County-jm) – Seventeen Illinois Schoolyard Habitat Action Grants totaling more than $55,200 have been awarded for habitat development at schools and other public places, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Illinois Conservation Foundation announced today. St. Thomas More in Champaign is getting $850 for a pollinator garden while Cunningham Children’s Home in Urbana is getting $1,000 to plant native trees.

(Washington-jm) – After several months of declines, retail egg prices are climbing again. Gary Crawford reports…

(Paxton–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Monical’s Pizza of Paxton. The Monical’s brand has been in operation since 1959. In Paxton, Monicals offers daily lunch specials, that include pizza, sandwiches, pastas, and monkeybread. Monical’s Pizza of Paxton Manager Jason Mills says one local favorite is the Panther special…

Mills says the French dressing and salads are a big part of Monical’s pizza

Monical’s Pizza of Paxton Manager Jason Mills. 

Today and all Monday’s Monical's Pizza has a special. Any 4 topping or specialty pizza for only 14 dollars.  The special runs from 4pm to close on Monday.s Monical’s Pizza is the WPXN Business of the Day, today. 

(Springfield-jm) – Behind-the-wheel road tests may be abolished for senior citizens looking to renew their license under legislation proposed this year. State Rep. Jeff Keicher, R-Sycamore, introduced House Bill 4431 at the start of the 2024 legislative session, attacking what he said is an “onerous hurdle” the road test mandate presents for drivers ages 75 and older. Keicher told The Center Square that National Safety Council statistics don’t support the need for a road test for seniors. When it comes to the raw count of fatal incidents, seniors are involved in the fewest crashes, as they tend to avoid long-distance driving, limiting their runs to essentials like the grocery store and doctor’s visits. Other demographics alter the picture a bit, as Keicher explains,

(Springfield-jm) – Senate Republicans are calling for transparency when it comes to the financial costs the state has paid for the migrant crisis. State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Undated-jm) – Four Republicans are vying to replace State Senator Tom Bennett in the 53rd Illinois Senate race. The district includes 13 counties in Central Illinois stretching north to Channahon, west to parts of Peoria, south to Gibson City, and east to the Illinois-Indiana border. The four candidates are teacher and farmer Jesse Faber from Pontiac, Grundy County Board chair Chris Balkema from Channahon, farmer and veteran Mike Kirkton from Gridley, and former Iroquois County Board member Susan Wynn Bence from Watseka.

(Gibson City–jc)  It’s Show number 4 for Gibson Area Hospital and its Summer Bash. This year the show will feature Bret Michaels and also Jefferson Starship. Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee-and Community Events Bill Kirby says the live shows began during the covid pandemic…

Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee-and Community Events Bill Kirby 

The show is free to attend, but special pit pass tickets went on sale Friday for the August 17th event. 

(Champaign County-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff’s Department has released their annual report highlighting trends and department changes in Champaign County. According to the report, calls for service, arrests, and jail intakes saw an increase last year in Champaign County from 2022. However, things such as traffic crashes and shootings saw a decrease. In 2023, the Champaign County Sheriff’s department saw nearly 14,600 calls for service, about 120 calls more than in 2022. They also saw an increase of arrests at 576 – as well as about 300 more jail intakes at just over 4,500. In 2023, the Champaign County Sheriff’s Department saw nearly 100 fewer traffic crashes than in 2022. They also investigated 13 shooting incidents, down 3 from the year before.

(Washington-jm) – Will margins this year for milk producers be any better than last year? Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Republican state legislators continue to push for policy changes to address what they see as a poor business climate. The credit rating assigned to Illinois by Fitch Ratings, A- in November 2023, is far below the ratings given to most of the 50 states. As of early 2024, most states have AA or AAA credit ratings, and can borrow money at much lower expense to taxpayers than can Illinois. In a news conference at the state capitol in Springfield, state Rep. Dan Ugaste, said Democrats are promoting a narrative that "all is well." He wants a property tax relief plan. Illinoisans pay the second highest property taxes in the nation. Illinois is tied for the worst credit rating in the nation.

(Springfield-jm) – Senate Republicans are calling for more transparency when it comes to state spending on the migrant crisis. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City is one of the Republicans calling for transparency…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Savoy-jm) – A Savoy man was sentenced to 15 years in the Bureau of Prisons, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and registration as a sex offender, for the sexual exploitation of a minor. David Berry brought a minor to his home, sexually assaulted her, and recorded the acts on video in October of 2021. Berry was indicted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in February of 2022. He pleaded guilty in September of 2023.

(Paxton–jc)  –  The local Pheasant’s Forever Group received a donation from the city of Paxton this week. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says Pheasants’ Forever helps with the airport grounds and making a donation to the local group was an easy decision for the city council…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold.

(Kankakee-jm) – Clove Alliance, a leading nonprofit organization that serves Kankakee, Iroquois, and Ford counties in providing hope and healing to survivors of sexual violence, has launched its new strategic plan. Clove Alliance collaborated with stakeholders, team members, and community partners to build a comprehensive roadmap for the next three years that reflects the organization's dedication to advancing its mission and fostering positive change within the community. The plan sets out three primary goals: Strengthening Workforce and Employee Retention, Enhancing Community Outreach and Visibility, and Optimizing Services for Underserved Communities. The full plan can be viewed at clovealliance.org/strategicplan.

(Gilman–dm)--The City of Gilman has several projects going on now and in the future, including street widening and sanitary sewer work.  Gilman Mayor Rick Theesfield tells us about a downtown project that has been completed.

Gilman mayor Rick Theesfield

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man has been sentenced to 5 years in prison for possessing a stolen handgun during a traffic stop. Benjamin Mason received the sentence in Champaign County court. In exchange for his guilty plea one count of armed violence, one count of possessing a weapon as a felon and one count of the manufacture and delivery of more than 500 grams of cannabis were dismissed.

(Paxton–jc)  A restoration project gets underway in Paxton. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office returned nearly $20 million in missing money during February, Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs announced. The total includes more than $17.1 million in cash and interest and nearly $2.5 million in stock value. All told, 19,046 claims were paid in February. Illinois’ missing money program — also known as I-CASH — is one of the state’s oldest consumer protection initiatives.

(Watseka–jc)  The Iroquois County Economic Development Association is applauding the new businesses coming to the County this Spring and Summer. They include  the Blue Barn Market in Ashkum, The Cluck Bucket in Watseka, Wallace Automotive in Milford  and So Fetch-dog Grooming in Milford.Iroquois County Economic Development Association Executive Director Angel Crawford says it’s important for businesses and local government officials to know the grant process to see if any help is available…

Iroquois County Economic Development Association Executive Director Angel Crawford. Those wanting more information may contact Crawford’s office in Watseka. 

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign is working on being even more bike-friendly. The City Council voted to build more bike lanes. The goal is to create a safer infrastructure so bicyclists can ride to stores, parks, restaurants, or anywhere they need to go. The plan includes 16 different projects the city will focus on, all bringing new cycling lanes to Champaign.

(Ford County–dm) The Ford County Schools are asking for a 1% sales tax  increase at this year’s primary election.  Paxton Buckley Loda School Superintendent Travis Duly explains that even with the 1% increase, Ford County will still have one of the lowest tax rates in the area. 

Paxton Buckley Loda School Superintendent Travis Duly. The funds from the increase will be used for facility improvement, school resource officers and mental health support. The election is Tuesday March 19th.

(Springfield-jm) – Spring enrollment at Illinois Community Colleges increased for the second straight year system-wide. Opening Spring 2024 enrollment increased by 5.1 percent from the previous spring according to the Illinois Community College Board’s Spring 2024 Enrollment Report.

(Elliott-jc)  The Elliot Amvets are hosting a Spaghetti dinner fundraiser on Saturday at the Amvets in Elliot on Saturday. Elliot Amvets Spokesperson Karon Seib (s-eye-b) says its to help with the funeral expenses of member John York…

Elliott Amvets spokesperson Karon Seib. The event starts at 5pm on Saturday. 

(Paxton–jc)  You can look for the City of Paxton playground “firetruck” to make its return to Pells Park. Paxton leaders say new playground equipment is on its way to the city and will be placed at Pells Park soon. The Firetruck, a mainstay at Pells Park, has been refurbished and will be a part of the park, again. 

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will have a food drive in northern Champaign County this morning from 9-10 at the Fountain Valley Mobile Home Park basketball court and 10:30-11 at the Ludlow Community Building.

The Onarga American Legion will hold their fish fry tonight from 4:30-7 at the Legion Hall at Durham Park.

The Cadillac in Paxton has DJ Big James playing all the dance hits from the 90’s and 2000’s tonight. No cover charge. Doors open at 5pm. DJ starts at 8pm.

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

The Elliott Amvets will hold a spaghetti dinner fundraiser for the funeral expenses of member John York on Saturday from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10 per plate.

The Cadillac in Paxton will host The Feudin Hillbillys on Saturday. Doors open at 6 with the concert beginning at 8.

(Springfield-jm) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker joined doctors, patients, stakeholders and legislators to highlight efforts to reform predatory health insurance practices and protect patients. The Healthcare Protection Act aims to ban step therapy, and prior authorization for crisis mental health care, and end unchecked rate increases for large group insurance companies. The measure is targeting utilization management, which often forces consumers to obtain permission from their providers before receiving care that doctors have already determined necessary.

(Washington-jm) – Beef demand continues high, despite rising prices. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – For 54 years, farmers, students, and supporters have flocked to the Capitol building for Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day. Their goal is to meet with legislators and tell them what bills or initiatives they are hoping to see prioritized that year. Agriculture has over a $25 billion annual economic impact," said Jerry Costello, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. "About one in four or one in five jobs in the state are in some way, shape, or form agriculture related. Costello said one of the big priorities for legislators last year was improving agriculture education, and programs are already seeing the results of that.

(Paxton–jc)  Taking a second look at potential costs for a storm drainage project on Paxton’s southeast side. That was the decision of City of Paxton leaders this week. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the project is expected to cost around 7 million dollars and local leaders are looking closer at potential costs…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold. More information on the proposed project is expected at the next monthly city council meeting. 

(Washington-jm) – Almost $7 million in federal funding is coming to Central Illinois through the government’s latest funding bill. The bill, signed into law by President Biden over the weekend, includes $136.1 million for Illinois’ 13th congressional district. Democratic Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski supported the legislation and applauded Biden for signing it. $963,000 is going toward the establishment of a Real Time Crime Center on the University of Illinois campus. The center would allow for expanded and enhanced crime prevention, monitoring and response to crimes in progress. $850,000 is going toward the City of Champaign’s Garden Hills Revitalization Project. 

(Undated-jm) – The race for Illinois' 102nd House District looks a little different. Both candidates, incumbent state Rep. Adam Niemerg of Dieterich, and Jim Acklin, are running as write-in candidates. Niemerg said he was tossed off the ballot because the state elections board hearing officer said he didn’t raise his right hand when having his statement of candidacy notarized. Illinois State Board of Elections spokesman Matt Dietrich said the objection to Niemerg's candidacy was because his statement of candidacy was not notarized as required by the Illinois Election Code. There was no notary seal on his 2024 statement of candidacy, which Niemerg said led the Vermillion County Democrats to object to his statement. Jim Acklin, currently the mayor of Ogden and interim superintendent of Chrisman Schools, recently announced his own write-in campaign in the 102nd House District, challenging Niemerg in the Republican primary. Acklin last ran a campaign for state representative in 2016, where he was defeated by state Rep. Brad Halbrook of Shelbyville. The 102nd House District encompasses parts of  Champaign, Clark, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Effingham, Jasper, Lawrence and Vermilion counties.

(Rantoul–jc)  Rantoul Village leaders are set to meet in a special session tonight in Village Hall at 6pm. Among items on the agenda include discussion and approval of the Law Enforcement Technology package for the Rantoul Police Department with Axon Enterprises for 10 years at an investment of 910 thousand dollars. Local leaders will also consider action on a demolition project at 119 East Sangamon Avenue in the downtown area. That cost is 144 thousand 500 dollars with Lee Excavating of Paxton and Thawville. Board members are also looking to authorize the village to go forward with Phase One of the Wastewater Treatment plant project at a cost over just over 16 million dollars. 

(Springfield-jm) – A state law that limits where lawsuits challenging state laws can be filed has been ruled unconstitutional as applied to a case from Madison County. Approved last year and signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker, House Bill 3062 was opposed by Republicans who said limiting where people can sue the state to just two of the state’s 102 counties is “tyrannical.” The law limits where people can sue the state alleging constitutional violations from state laws or executive orders to just Cook and Sangamon counties. In Piasa Armory’s challenge to the state’s firearm industry liability law in November, the state motioned to move the case to Sangamon County. Earlier this month, a Madison County judge found the court venue limit law as applied in the case is unconstitutional. The law “does violate due process, as applied to persons who reside or were injured outside of Cook or Sangamon County,” In its motion to move the case to Sangamon County, the state said the litigants can remote in with video conferencing. Forest said the state could also video conference into Madison County. The state has until the end of the month to appeal the Madison County decision.

(Washington-jm) – Producers have until March 29th to enroll acreage in USDA’s General Conservation Reserve Program. Rod Bain reports…

(Urbana-jm) – University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has helped lead a project to create the first insulin-producing cow. A cow from the south of Brazil is the first transgenic cow capable of producing human insulin in her milk. The study was led by researchers at the U of I and the Universidade de São Paulo with the goal of one day eliminating the drug scarcity and high costs for people living with diabetes. Wheeler’s colleagues in Brazil put a segment of human DNA coding for proinsulin, the protein precursor of the active form of insulin, into cell nuclei of ten cow embryos. Those were implanted in the uteruses of normal cows in Brazil, and one transgenic calf was born.

(Gibson City–jc)  Gibson Area Hospital officials announced that Bret Michaels will appear at the Gibson City Summer bash on August 17th this year in downtown Gibson City. Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee-Community Events Bill Kirby also adds that the opening act is Jefferson Starship…

Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee-Community Events Bill Kirby.

(Danville-jm) – A Danville man will spend almost 20 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to gun and drug charges in Vermilion County. The Vermilion County State’s Attorney’s Office called Terrion Liggins a “gun-toting crack dealer” who was convicted of unlawful possession by a felon and possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the gun charge and eight for the drug charge. Those sentences will be served consecutively. In 2022, Liggins’ home was searched by agents of the Vermilion County Metropolitan Enforcement Group and they found 28 grams of crack cocaine. They also found firearm ammunition, which Liggins was not allowed to possess due to prior felony convictions.

(Champaign County-jm) – When a loved one dies, families have a lot to sift through. But, what happens when some of the belongings go straight to funeral homes and coroners? Overflowing shelves and rooms could be the result. Steve Thuney, the Champaign County Coroner, has seen it in his office for the last 10-12 years. There are over 400 sets of property from people who have passed away in Champaign County. Now, the coroner wants the community to know how they can get their hands back on these important items. So, how do you know if your loved ones’ things are sitting in one of the bags? You would have gotten a letter from Thuney’s office. From there, you can either claim the property or let the office know it’s okay to get rid of.

(Watseka–jc)  Iroquois County Economic Development Association leaders informed the Iroquois County Board that several new businesses are coming to communities in the county this Spring and Summer. 

Cameron and Dee Charles of Ashkum are opening Blue Barn Market in Ashkum in mid Summer. 

In Watseka, Tyler Hayes, owner of the Steak and Shake, plans to open the Cluck Bucket in June.

In Milford, Brandyn and Courtney Wallace have opened Wallace Automotive. They also own the Milford Laundromat.

Also in Milford,  Tamar Walder has an April First opening set for her “So Fetch” dog grooming store. 

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois lawmakers could pass a plan this spring to ensure school vendors and learning partners follow the state's new comprehensive literacy plan. House Democrats want vendors responsible for English language arts improvement plans to abide by the historic Literacy and Justice For All Act. The Illinois State Board of Education introduced the framework for the literacy plan in January. However, this bill could ensure schools are not limited by their vendors. However, some Republicans argued that vendors will already follow the new literacy standards and a new law isn't necessary.

(Springfield-jm) – County clerks shared their concerns with an Illinois task force looking into the possibility of changing how elections are conducted. Ranked-choice voting allows people to rank the candidates, with "one" being their favorite. The votes are tallied in rounds. If no candidate wins a majority of voters' first-choices, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, according to information from FairVote, an organization that advocates for ranked-choice voting. Some states have banned the process like Idaho, Tennessee, Montana and Florida. In Illinois, a task force is looking at implementing the idea. The Illinois Ranked-Choice Voting and Election Systems Task Force continues to meet to get feedback about possibly launching such a system in 2028.

(Washington-jm) – U.S. corn is coming under more downward price pressure. Gary Crawford reports…

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man has been sentenced to 8 years in prison for possessing cocaine. Thaimon Crawford pleaded guilty to possessing 17.5 grams of cocaine, just 2.5 grams more than minimum quantity that required him to be charged with a Class X felony.

(Oakwood-jm) – An Illinois man has been arrested on felony and misdemeanor charges, including for assaulting law enforcement during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Lance Michael Ligocki, 34, of Oakwood is charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of Columbia with felony offenses of civil disorder and assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers.  Ligocki is also charged with several misdemeanor offenses, including entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds, disorderly or disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds, and disorderly conduct and acts of physical violence in the Capitol grounds or buildings.

(Urbana–jc)  Medications and pregnancy. Tips from O-S-F;s Tim Ditman has more…

(Ford County-jm) – Ford County has been issued a tentative property assessment equalization factor of 1.0000, according to David Harris, director of the Illinois Department of Revenue. The property assessment equalization factor, often called the “multiplier,” is the method used to achieve uniform property assessments among counties, as required by law. This equalization is particularly important because some of the state’s 6,600 local taxing districts overlap into two or more counties. State law requires property in Illinois to be assessed at one-third (1/3) of its market value. Farm property is assessed differently with farm homesites and dwellings subject to regular assessing and equalization procedures. Farmland and farm buildings are assessed according to standards based on productivity. Assessments in Ford County are at 32.90% of market value, based on sales of properties in 2020, 2021, and 2022. The equalization factor currently being assigned is for taxes, 2023 payable in 2024. Last year’s equalization factor for the county was 1.0000.

(Springfield-jm) – Preparations are underway to host thousands of visitors in Illinois for the April 8 total solar eclipse that will pass over much of the southern third of the state. Officials from multiple state agencies, including the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Illinois State Police, and the Illinois Office of Tourism have worked together for more than a year to ensure a safe and successful experience for the influx of eclipse watchers. Southern Illinois is in the path of totality for the second time since Aug. 21, 2017. Carbondale will see 4 minutes and 9 seconds of totality, nearly double what was seen in 2017.

(Springfield-jm) – A new survey released by the Illinois Chamber of Commerce indicates that most independent contractors in the state are satisfied with their current employment arrangement. Impact Research surveyed 600 Illinois residents and found that 63% of independent contractors in the state would oppose being reclassified as employees. The survey showed that full-time employees are less likely to be extremely satisfied with their jobs than independent contractors are. The U.S. Department of Labor has enacted a new Independent Contractor Rule that went into effect Monday. The new rule will begin using a six-factor test to determine independent workers' legal protections and compensation.

(Washington-jm) – U.S. wheat exports this year may sink to their lowest levels in almost fifty years. Gary Crawford reports…

(Urbana-jm) – One person was taken to the hospital following a car vs motorcycle accident on a busy stretch of Urbana road. It happened at the intersection of University and Fourth Streets. The motorcyclist was taken to the hospital in critical condition.

(Champaign-jm) – The City of Champaign is switching to a new cybersecurity provider later this month, thanks to a measure approved by the Champaign City Council. The city council approved of a three-year agreement with the cybersecurity company Field Effect at its meeting. The city will pay $64,278 annually each year for the contract. The cybersecurity firm will provide the city with tools to prevent malicious hacks like firewalls, anti-virus protection, network access security software, and cloud back-up. In a city memo, officials said the city has been a daily target of phishing and malware attempts. The city has also faced a phishing scam in 2018, an international hack in 2019 and several international log-in attempts from compromised credentials.

(Buckley–jc)  The Federal Crop Insurance deadline is Friday. Edge Insurance Agency owner Dylan Reetz says its a reminder to get with your insurance agent by that date…

Edge Insurance Agency of Buckley Owner Dylan Reetz.

(Champaign-jm) – Over a dozen polling locations across Champaign County will be closed this Election Day due to a significant shortage of election judges. The following locations will be CLOSED: Bible Baptist Church in Champaign, Bresnan Meeting Center Champaign, Curtis Road Church of Christ Champaign, Douglass Center Annex Champaign, East Bend Township Building Dewey, Florida Ave Residence Hall Urbana, Hessel Park Christian Reformed Church Champaign, Illini Hillel Champaign, Illinois Street Residence Hall Urbana,  Ivesdale Fire Station, Pesotum Community Building, Philo Town Hall, Plumbers' and Pipefitters' Local 149 Savoy, River Valley Church of Christ Fisher, and Stanton Township Building & Town Hall St. Joseph.

(Springfield-jm) – Small nonprofit organizations that provide people with food or housing assistance are encouraged to apply for funding through the Charitable Trust Stabilization Program, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said. Grant applications will be accepted through March 31. The Charitable Trust Stabilization Fund assists small nonprofits with annual budgets of $1 million or less and with the equivalent of one full-time employee. Grant applicants in an area where pervasive poverty, unemployment and economic distress exist will be given special attention. For this first grant cycle of 2024, up to $200,000 is available. The maximum award amount is $20,000 for each organization.

(Washington-jm) – The USDA has changed its forecast for the Brazilian soybean crop, but has made no change to this month's U.S. soybean forecasts. Gary Crawford reports…

(Germany-jm) – An American man has been convicted of murder and rape charges for attacking two University of Illinois graduates last June in Germany. The man was accused of pushing the victims down a steep ravine. In line with German privacy laws, authorities did not identify the suspect or the victims, but family and friends identified the victims as Eva Liu, who died, and her friend Kelsey Chang, who survived.

(Decatur-jm) – REO Speedwagon is coming to perform at The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater. The Midwest rock band will perform on June 26. This show is not included in the 2024 Devon season ticket package. This is an add on show. 2024 Season Ticket Holders will get an email with details about a special pre-sale opportunity.  Tickets for the show go on sale Friday, March 15 at 10 a.m. at www.devonamphitheater.com.

(Rantoul–jc) There is more in the works for the village of Rantoul when the topic is new businesses and positive economic development. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says more announcements are coming soon…

Village of Rantoul mayor Chuck Smith.

(Tolono-jm) – Attorney General Kwame Raoul charged a Champaign County man, and former director for the Tolono Park District, with allegedly using the Tolono Park District credit card, bank account and rebate coupons worth approximately $25,000 for personal use. Raoul’s office charged Randall Grace, 63, of Tolono, with one count of theft of government property, a Class 1 felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison; three additional counts of theft of government property, Class 2 felonies each punishable by up to seven years in prison; four counts of official misconduct, Class 3 felonies each punishable by up to five years in prison; and one count of forgery, a Class 3 felony punishable by up to five years in prison. Sentences are ultimately determined by the court and can run concurrently. Grace’s next court date is April 3.

(Gibson city–jc)  Gibson Area Hospital and Health Services has announced their music lineup for the Annual Summer Bash. The live event is set for Saturday August 17th in downtown Gibson city.   Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employees and Community Events Bill Kirby says Brett Michaels is coming to Gibson City…

Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee and Community Events Bill Kirby

 Opening for Michaels is the iconic rock band Jefferson Starship. General admission is free. Party pit tickets will be available for purchase this Friday at 8am. 

(Springfield-jm) – Democrats unveiled a report that ultimately calls for Illinois taxpayers to pay $1.4 billion more to fund public universities.  The Commission on Equitable Public University Funding, created by law in 2021, released a report that finds an additional $100 million to $135 million annually to public universities would allow the state to bridge the reported funding gap in 10-15 years. Robin Steans, president of Advance Illinois, said the funding formula laid out in the report is much like a funding formula executed in Illinois K-12 schools. Steans said K-12 is seeing success despite Illinois students experiencing record low literacy rates and math proficiency rates. Illinois’ recent 2023 Report Card shows that 65% of the state’s 1.86 million public school children can’t read at grade level despite the increased funding. That’s 1.2 million students. 

(Washington-jm) – How is the Agriculture Department and its various mission areas reflected in the President's Fiscal Year 2025 Federal Budget proposal released Monday? Rod Bain reports…

(Rantoul-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is seeking assistance from the public regarding suspicious fires. The Rantoul Police Department along with the Illinois State Fire Marshal's Office are investigating three recent reports of suspicious fires in the 100 block of Mahoning Lane in Rantoul. The first occurred on February 8th at approximately 9 p.m. The second incident was reported on February 26th at approximately 9:40 p.m., when fire personnel were dispatched to a report of a structure fire. Again, on February 27th at approximately 9:30 a.m., Rantoul Fire and Rantoul Police Department were dispatched to a report of a working fire. During this most recent incident, witnesses in the area reported seeing three subjects, possibly juveniles, near the building before seeing smoke and fire coming from the structure.

(Champaign-jm) – The U.S. Postal Service has set a date for a public-input meeting as it continues to review the northwest Champaign post office and considers transferring some of the site’s mail-processing operations to other offices. The meeting will be at 6 p.m. tonight at the University YMCA. The Postal Service is conducting a facility review of the Champaign Processing and Distribution Center on N. Mattis Ave. According to a public notice from the agency, a summary of the review will be posted at about.usps.com at least one week prior to the event. The Postal Service’s meeting notice states that its initial findings support keeping the Mattis Avenue post office open and modernizing it as a local processing center “with simplified processes and standardized layouts.” It’s possible the distribution center could be closed and services moved to the Chicago suburbs.

(Springfield-jm) – Senate Republicans are calling for more transparency from the Pritzker Administration over how much is being spent on the migrant crisis. State Senator Sally Turner says the legislature has been left out of the conversations…

State Senator Sally Turner.

(Champaign County-jm) – The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District is aiming to make sure children are riding safely in their car seats this spring. The organization is providing car seat safety checks every second Monday of the month. Safety checks are being provided at no cost to parents and guardians. Seat checks are by appointment only. People can call 217-353-4932 to set up an appointment.

(Springfield-jm) – Democrats in the Illinois Senate have advanced a measure that would prohibit Illinois companies from requiring employees to attend work-related meetings about religion or politics. Under the proposal, it would be illegal for a business to discipline, fire or otherwise penalize an employee who declines to attend an employee-sponsored meeting about religious or political matters. Employees who believe their workplaces violated the law would be able to file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Labor.

(Washington-jm) – Friday's USDA Supply and Demand forecasts created a small ripple in corn and soybean markets. Gary Crawford reports…

(Crescent City-jm) – Several emergency response teams were called to Crescent City Saturday morning in response to a HAZMAT incident. Officials arrived at the scene near the post office around 7:30 a.m. A postal driver said he opened his truck at his last stop, and noted a strong odor and a light haze inside the vehicle. An unknown substance poured from a package in his truck and onto the concrete below. The leakage started to bubble and smoke. Iroquois County EMA, the Crescent City Fire and EMS, and the Watseka Fire Department worked to block off the area as the Kankakee County Hazardous Materials Team was called in. The truck driver had difficulty breathing and was taken to an area hospital, where he has since been released, officials said. The HAZMAT team suited up and found a jug labeled “muriatic acid” that had cracked while in transit and caused the spill.

(Undated-jm) – A local music legend whose impact grew to reach far and wide outside of Central Illinois has passed away peacefully on Friday at the age of 65. WCIA 3 reports Mark Rubel, a bassist, among other things, for “Captain Rat and the Blind Rivets,” who he played with for more than 20 years. They performed several times at the Ford County Fair.

(Springfield-jm) – Members of the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus held a press conference in Springfield. The Caucus is calling out the Governor for his lack of transparency on the amount of taxpayer dollars being spent on the tens of thousands of migrants who are now in Illinois. State Senator Dave Syverson of Cherry Valley…

State Senator Dave Syvverson of Cherry Valley.

(Champaign County-jm) – Champaign County’s dispatch service, METCAD, is releasing more information about the 911 outage Thursday night. They say they were notified by an automated AT&T notification that both 911 and the non-emergency phone lines were not functioning and immediately initiated their emergency outage plan, which includes transferring 911 lines to Vermilion County dispatch. However, Vermilion Counties lines were also affected so lines were transferred to Macon County, who relayed details of Champaign Counties calls to METCAD for local dispatching. Once AT&T resolved the issue, AT&T rerouted Champaign County’s 9-1-1 calls back to METCAD.  AT&T is still investigating the root cause of the service outage, but they did indicate that it was something within their infrastructure that failed.  The Statewide 9-1-1 Administrator and the FCC are also looking into this matter.

(Springfield-jm) – More than 40 conservation planners from the state’s Soil and Water Conservation Districts visited the Capitol to educate legislators about soil health and the importance of districts. State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington addressed his House colleagues in welcoming those planners and stressing the importance of their jobs…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is highlighting the top scams and consumer complaints that affected Illinoisans in 2023. Last year, the Attorney General’s Office received more than 19,000 written complaints, along with tens of thousands of phone calls. The top three categories of scams and consumer complaints were construction and home improvement repairs, identity theft and consumer debt.

(Washington-jm) – Minimal changes were noted within USDA’s March series of crop reports, however, one category reflecting some adjustments were crop prices. Rod Bain reports…

(Rantoul-jm) – A 17 year old has been sentenced to 23 years in prison for his role in a 2022 fatal shooting of a Rantoul man. Tomir Johnson pleaded guilty to aggravated battery with a firearm. Prosecutors say Johnson participated in a cannabis sale that went wrong in November 2022 that led to the shooting death of DeCarlo Douglas of Rantoul.

(Champaign-jm) – A new agreement is opening new training opportunities for both Champaign firefighters and police officers. Last week, the Champaign City Council unanimously approved a one-year agreement with the nonprofit Public Safety Training Foundation to use their training facility in Decatur.

(Springfield-jm) – Senate Republicans are calling for greater transparency over how much the state is spending on migrant affairs in Chicago. One of those is 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Vermilion County-jm) – A survey is underway exploring options to extend the Kickapoo Rail Trail from the existing eastern terminus at N. 1180 East Road, at the Vermilion County Fairgrounds, to the City of Danville. The extension is one of many planned trail segments in the developing Grand Prairie Trail network to connect Bloomington-Normal, Champaign, and Danville. The existing Kickapoo Rail Trail is 24.5 miles long, extends eastward from Urbana along the former CSX rail corridor to the fairgrounds, and crosses the Middle Fork of the Vermilion River on a renovated trestle bridge.

(Paxton–dm) If you’re going to be out of town on election day, you can still make your vote count.  Ford County Clerk Amy Frederick tells us how.

Ford County Clerk Amy Frederick. The March Primary election in Illinois is Tuesday March 19th. 

There are several meetings around the area tonight. The Ford County Board will approve bids for township motor fuel tax funding, approve mutual aid agreements between Ford County EMA and several entities and approve sheriff’s patrol services in Sibley and Roberts. In Gibson City, leaders are expected to approve assistance on a Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grant. In Gilman, leaders are expected to approve a roadway replacement project for 3rd and Main as well as sewer replacement on 5th Street. Onarga village leaders are also expected to meet tonight.

(Springfield-jm) – The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal reminds Illinoisans to test, inspect, and replace broken or expired smoke alarms in their homes with new 10-year sealed battery alarms while they change the clocks this weekend. The National Fire Protection Association reports between 2014-2018, almost three out of every five home fire deaths in the U.S. resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or non-working smoke alarms. Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. this Sunday.

(Champaign County–jc)  Some 9-1-1 services were unavailable on Thursday night in Champaign and Ford Counties, among other areas close to those two counties. The Champaign County Metcad put out alarms on smartphones and facebook about the interruption in services. The 9-1-1 services were restored late last night. Local authorities are expected to address the reason for the interruption. 

(Springfield-jm) – With the two-year anniversary of former Speaker Mike Madigan’s indictment coinciding with national ethics awareness month, House Minority Leader Tony McCombie is using the opportunity to advance ethics reform in the Illinois  House this spring. Leader McCombie has continued to advocate for reform as federal indictments have rocked the state, and the majority party has refused to step up to tighten existing loopholes in current law or strengthen existing statutes. To address some of those shortcomings and restore faith in government, McCombie has filed a measure, HB4119, to prohibit elected officials from using political campaign donations to pay for criminal defense…

House Minority Leader Tony McCombie.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced that the unemployment rate was unchanged at 4.7% in January. The national unemployment rate was 3.7% in January, also unchanged from the previous month. 

The number of unemployed workers was 305,500, up over 7% over the same month one year ago. In January, the industry sectors with the largest over-the-month job gains in Illinois included government and educational and health services.

(Watseka-dm)--The Primary Election in Illinois is just over one week away and most voters in Iroquois County will be casting votes for their favorite candidates. But voters in Northeast Iroquois County will have a school referendum to vote on.

Iroquois County Clerk Breein Suver explains. 

Iroquois County Clerk Breein Suver.  The Primary Election will be March 19th.

(Danville-jm) – Bresee Tower in Danville has received approval from the courts to be demolished. The tower has been unused and deemed as a safety hazard for years. Though, there is no set date for the demolition yet as the City of Danville and Vermillion County still need to work out an agreement.

(Gibson City–jc)  –  A ribbon cutting ceremony at the new Runnings Farm and Home store in Gibson City took place at 1 yesterday afternoon. The store's grand opening celebration started yesterday morning and runs through Saturday. Runnings Store Manager Jim Peters says the response to the new store from the community has been great and the Runnings store has a wide variety for the farm and home…

Runnings Farm and Home Store-Gibson City Manager Jim Peters. Giveaways and  free gift cards to the first 100 customers  will be available at the Gibson City, Watseka and Tilton stores, again,  today and Saturday.

(Champaign-jm) – In order to hoist material onto the roof of 507 E. Green Street, Custom Service Crane will close Green Street between Fifth Street and Sixth Street. Eastbound and westbound Green Street traffic will be detoured in the area. The closure will occur between the hours of 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 12, 2024. 

(Washington-jm) – The USDA is conducting farmer surveys for two major reports that will be released later this month. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – An Illinois state commission has issued a report calculating that public universities in the state are underfunded by about $1.4 billion. The Commission on Equitable Public University Funding is comprised of 34 members, including legislators and university administrators. It found that dedicating an additional $100 million annually to schools would allow the state to bridge the funding gap in a decade.

(Springfield-jm) – Tax time is here and so is the increased risk of tax scams. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City shares some ways to protect yourself…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Springfield-jm) – State Senator Mattie Hunter is leading a measure to limit the out-of-pocket costs for prescription inhalers. Senate Bill 3203 limits the cost an individual with health insurance pays for an inhaler to $25 for a 30-day supply. 

Under Hunter’s proposal, health insurance providers would be prohibited from denying or limiting coverage for prescription inhalers beginning Jan. 1, 2026. According to Illinois Department of Public Health data from 2018, more than 850,000 adults and 160,000 children in the state are diagnosed with asthma.

(Ford County—dm) Ford County residents will have a question on this year’s ballot, asking if the school districts in the county can levy a 1% sales tax on certain items.  Paxton Buckley Loda School Superintendent Travis Duley explains what will and will not see the 1% increase.

Paxton Buckley Loda school superintendent Travis Duley.  The election is Tuesday, March 19th

(Champaign-jm) – One person was hurt Thursday morning in a two vehicle crash on I-72 in Champaign. Officials with the Illinois State Police said the crash happened near Country Fair Drive around 11:11 a.m. The driver of one vehicle was taken to an area hospital with injuries.

(Paxton—) Spring is just around the corner and that means it’s time to think about your garden.  Scott Allen from Paxton Hardware and Rental tells us how you can start your garden inside.

Scott Allen from Paxton Hardware and Rental.  You can hear more from Scott Saturday morning at 7:30 A.M. on Scott’s tips for success.

(Champaign-jm) – Nursing and engineering researchers at the University of Illinois and the University of Illinois Chicago have discovered how to use ultrasounds to predict premature births in pregnant women. The Centers for Disease Control says more than 10% of pregnancies in the U.S. resulted in premature births in 2022. Currently, there is no way of knowing whether a woman who is pregnant for the first time is at risk of having a premature delivery. This is because the only way to know if a woman is at risk, is if she has previously had a preterm birth. Now, researchers at the University of Illinois and the University of Illinois Chicago have discovered a new risk assessment method to help pregnant mothers and their doctors prepare for a potentially early delivery.

(Washington-jm) – What does USDA say regarding milk production, product demand, and prices for this new year? Rod Bain reports…

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

The St. Joseph American Legion will hold a fish fry to benefit Troop 40 this evening from 4:30-7 at the American Legion. Cost is $10 for a meal or $8 for just a sandwich.

The Elliot Amvets Dinner nite is set for today at the Post in Elliott. Shrimp, Chicken and Fish are on the menu. Dine in or carry out. Serving starts at 5pm.

St Pauls in Woodworth P-T-L Fish Fry is set for today at the school. Carryouts begin at 4pm. Serving at 5pm. There is also a bake sale.

The Cadillac in Paxton will host country singer Tyler Farr tonight. Doors open at 6 with the concert beginning at 7:30.

Paxton IGA will hold their cookout benefiting the Hands of Christ Food Pantry on Saturday from 10-2.

There will be an Electronic Recycling event held in Paxton on Saturday from 9-noon at 755 N. Railroad Avenue at the City Shed. This event is open to anyone. Fees may vary by item. Event will be held rain or shine.

The Danforth Blue Ribbon 4-H Club will hold their pork chop supper on Saturday from 5-7 pm at the Danforth Community Building. Cost is $10 for one chop and $12 for two chops. Meal includes pork chop, green bean, applesauce, potato salad, bread and butter, drink and pie.

(Rural Gibson City-jm) – Gibson City first responders were called to a car versus train accident Wednesday night. The accident happened around 9:30 pm near 300 north 100 east. There’s no word on if there were any injuries.

(Springfield-jm) – Statistics show that Illinois is one of the most dangerous states for fatal crashes at high speeds. The ranking used data from the National Highway Safety Administration on vehicles involved in fatal crashes between 2017 and 2021 where speed was recorded. Illinois was third in the nation with 16.3% of vehicles traveling at speeds of 80 mph or more before a fatal crash. Montana topped the list.

(Washington-jm) – Markets are awaiting USDA's new forecasts for crop supply, demand and prices. Gary Crawford reports…

(Urbana-jm) – Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana opened their very own pharmacy. The new CarleRx pharmacy is located in the hospital, allowing easy access to pharmacy resources and healthcare for both patients and Carle Health team members alike. CarleRx patients can also visit the full-service CarleRx at Carle Champaign on Curtis. The new pharmacy at Carle Foundation Hospital is open Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. It is also open on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with a half-hour closure from 1 to 1:30 p.m.

(Gibson City–jc)  – Voters in Gibson City have a “home rule” question on the March 19th Primary election ballot. Voters there will be asked to allow  corporate authorities of the City of Gibson to be authorized to levy a Non-Home Rule Municipal Retailers' Occupation Tax at a rate of one percent. Money raised would go to expenditures on municipal operations and infrastructure says Ford County Clerk Amy Frederick…

Ford County Clerk Amy Frederick. Voters in Illinois go to the polls on Tuesday March 19th

(Iroquois County-jm) – Iroquois County was formally recognized for its StormReady accreditation. The National Weather Service representatives presented county officials with a plaque and ceremony at the Courthouse in Watseka.  The County Emergency Management Agency Coordinator Scott Anderson initiated the effort and application process to earn the StormReady designation. The StormReady program uses a grassroots approach to help communities develop plans to handle all types of extreme weather -- from tornadoes to winter storms. The program encourages communities to take a new, proactive approach to improving hazardous weather operations. Iroquois County is the 39th county in Illinois to receive the prestigious accreditation.

(Rantoul–jc)  –  Several businesses are expanding, or moving in the village of Rantoul and also a “tiny home” project is a possibility, locally. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says several lots have been purchased and more are in the works in the village…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Springfield-jm) – Health officials are warning that just because the winter season is almost over, it doesn't mean that respiratory illness season is going with it. They said respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, RSV, and the flu are still possible to get after the winter season. Right now, Illinois is at a moderate level for respiratory illnesses.

(Washington-jm) – The USDA is surveying thousands of farmers about their planting plans. Gary Crawford reports…

(Normal-jm) – Rivian Motors has announced it will be eliminating a third shift at its plant in Normal. A company spokesperson said the plant will start operating with two shifts on April 28, when workers return after the factory’s planned April shutdown. Production lines will come to a halt in April so that the company can implement new technologies to make production more efficient. Rivian plans to unveil later this week the smaller and less-expensive R2 sport utility vehicle. The R2 will be manufactured at Rivian’s new Georgia factory starting in 2026.

(Springfield-jm) – State officials are warning about potential tax scams this tax season. The Illinois Comptroller’s Office along with 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett shares some tips to keep you safe…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City. You can follow your state tax refund at my refund dot illinois comptroller dot gov.

(Urbana-jm) – The University of Illinois has received a $5.75 million gift from Gies College of Business alumnus Anthony J. Petullo and his wife Bev. The investment will be divided between Gies College of Business, the School of Art and Design, and the Krannert Art Museum. Nearly half of the gift, $2.5 million, will create the Petullo Impact Fund at Gies College of Business. The Fund will invest in faculty at Gies supporting professorships, fellowships, chairs, PhD and postdoc support, and faculty research support. Petullo will also invest $1.75 million to create the Anthony J. Petullo School of Art and Design Scholarship and Fellowship Endowment Fund, which will support undergraduate and graduate student scholarships and fellowships.

(Buckley–jc)   Farm commodity prices are a concern for all farmers, as we head into the 20-24 growing season. Edge Insurance of Buckley Agency Owner Dylan Reetz says this year is a challenge for area farmers…

Edge Insurance Agency of Buckley Owner Dylan Reetz.  Farmers have until March 15th to get registered for Federal Crop Insurance

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he’s taking a cue from Republicans in pushing to eliminate the state’s 1% grocery tax. Republicans say their plan would make local governments whole. The second-term Democratic governor proposed eliminating the tax during his State of the State speech last month. Municipalities criticized the move, saying they could be out of $325 million in tax revenue if the proposal passes. Pritzker repeated his response Tuesday at an unrelated event, saying local governments could implement their own sales tax if they wanted.

(Washington-jm) – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says producers welcome USDA's livestock market reforms. Gary Crawford reports…

(Champaign-jm) – A mother and daughter are suing Christie Clinic and a deceased doctor under a new Illinois law meant to address fertility treatment fraud. Paula Duvall and her daughter Erin Culver have named Bradley D. Adams and Christie Clinic in a lawsuit regarding a fertility treatment almost 50 years ago. According to the suit, Duvall sought fertility treatment with Dr. Adams in the early 70s. He agreed to perform intrauterine insemination, a relatively new procedure at the time, using semen from an anonymous donor. The doctor told Duvall that he would be obtaining donations from a University of Illinois medical student. It was later determined Adams used his own.

(Iroquois County-jm) – The Iroquois County Republican Women invite you to join us for the Candidates Forum on Thursday, March 7th at Shagbark Country Club in Onarga.  Social time at 5:30 p.m. and the Forum will start promptly at 6:15 p.m. The Forum will feature the two Iroquois County State's Attorney Candidates and the four 53rd Senate District Candidates.

(Rantoul–jc)  –  With the Rantoul Sports Complex gearing up for a full season of events, to the draw of Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch to working with the University of Illinois on an Autonomous Track, the village of Rantoul continues to see positive economic development. Village of Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says several companies have purchased some land areas within the village and have plans for business to recreational investments…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Purdue-jm) – The latest Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reveals a modest increase in farmer sentiment compared to the previous month, though concerns remain regarding farm financial performance in the year ahead. 

The February barometer reading reached 111, marking a 5-point rise from last month. The small uptick is attributed to producers expressing increased optimism about the future, with the Future Expectations Index climbing 7 points to 115. However, the Current Conditions Index remained unchanged. Despite their improved outlook for the future, farmers’ financial performance expectations did not keep pace. February’s Farm Financial Performance Index registered at 85, a slight dip from January and notably lower than its recent peak in December. When producers were asked about their primary concerns for farm operations in the upcoming year, the top concern cited by 34% of respondents was “high input costs,” closely followed by “lower crop/livestock prices,” chosen by 28% of respondents. Worries about rising interest rates among producers seem to have diminished somewhat, with only 18% of February respondents citing it as a top concern, down from 26% who did so in November.

(Undated-jm) – Illinois State Police issued 57 citations during a recent effort to track motorists not buckled up.  The Occupant Restraint Enforcement Patrols were held in Kankakee, Ford, Iroquois, Livingston and McLean counties in February.  ISP reported 27 safety belt citations, one child restraint violation and 22 written warnings. The OREP patrols provide extra coverage for the ISP so officers can focus on saving lives by making sure occupants are buckled up.

(Springfield-jm) – There is a bipartisan move underway to clean up Illinois politics. Republican State Rep. Ryan Spain and former Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn are joining forces to introduce a constitutional amendment aimed at overhauling the state’s ethics laws. The measure is House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 19. Quinn said the Illinois Ethics Initiative would change the state constitution to allow voters to go to the polls to determine ethics laws instead of public officials. According to a recent University of Illinois at Chicago study, Illinois stands as the third-most corrupt state in the country.

(Washington-jm) – USDA has announced the first of several new rules designed to enhance integrity, fairness and competition in livestock marketing. Gary Crawford reports…

(Undated-jm) – Governor JB Pritzker announced $28.8 million in grant funding to provide free locally-produced food to vulnerable communities. The grants are being awarded to organizations in Illinois in partnership with the Illinois Department of Agriculture and the Illinois Department of Human Services. Officials say the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement will allow the State of Illinois to purchase food directly from socially disadvantaged farmers at fair market value. Food will then be distributed by providers, including food banks, farming collaboratives, and other non-profits, to communities in need at no cost. This includes schools, churches, and non-profit organizations. The funds originated through two cooperative agreements with the United States Department of Agriculture. The Eastern Illinois Foodbank is one of the recipients of the grant.

(Champaign-jm) – Two Republicans are squaring off in Illinois’ March 19 primary to take on the Democratic incumbent, U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski. When they approved Illinois’ congressional maps with one fewer seat, statehouse Democrats crafted the 13th District to snake through Illinois from the southwest to include parts of the Metro East then north up to Springfield and east to parts of Decatur and Champaign. Budzinski, of Springfield, won the newly drawn district in 2022. Republicans Thomas Clatterbuck of Champaign and Joshua Loyd of Virden are looking to challenge Budzinski in November.

(Elliott–jc)  The Elliott Amvets are hosting a fundraiser to help with the funeral expenses of one of their veterans who passed away in February. Elliott Amvets Spokesperson Karon Seib (‘s-eye’b) says a Spaghetti supper is set for Saturday March 16th…

Elliott Amvets Spokesperson Karon Seib.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Fair has announced that country music legend Keith Urban has been added to the Grandstand lineup for this year's fair. He will be performing on the Grandstand on Friday, August 9th. Tickets will go on sale Saturday, March 9th at 10 a.m.

(Danville-jm) – The Illinois State Police arrested five individuals during an anti-human trafficking operation in the Danville area. Beginning on February 28th, 2024, the ISP Division of Criminal Investigation Trafficking Enforcement Bureau conducted a two-day operation focused on identifying individuals seeking to engage in commercial sex acts.  As a result of the operation, each of the following individuals were arrested and charged with Indecent Solicitation/Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse of a Child, Traveling to Meet a Child, and Solicitation to Meet a Child: Salem Khan of Cheektowaga, NY, Brett Wright of Danville, Eric Schmidt of Lisle, IL, Andrew Cravens of Danville and Bradley Wagoner of Westville.

(Springfield-jm) – The Supreme Court on Monday restored Donald Trump to 2024 presidential primary ballots, rejecting Illinois’ and other state attempts to hold the Republican former president accountable for the 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol. The justices ruled a day before the Super Tuesday primaries that states, without action from Congress first, cannot invoke a post-Civil War constitutional provision to keep presidential candidates from appearing on ballots. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker commented Monday that the court made its decision, and "it will help Democrats that he's on the ballot." 

(Springfield-jm) – While Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker continues to downplay the idea he’ll run for president, Republicans interpret the governor’s rhetoric differently. Pritzker has long denied he’s aiming for the White House. He’s publicly supported incumbent President Joe Biden’s reelection. At his State of the State address, Pritzker worked in presidential politics condemning the likely Republican nominee former President Donald Trump and praising incumbent President Joe Biden. The Democratic National Convention, where the party’s choice for president will be made, is set for Chicago this August.

(Washington-jm) – 2024 began with farm prices running below year earlier levels. Gary Crawford reports…

(Urbana-jm) – On Monday in Champaign, University and state leaders took the next step in making Illinois a biomanufacturing leader. Directors at the Illinois Fermentation and Agriculture Biomanufacturing Tech Hub are announcing millions of dollars for their precision fermentation research impacting farms across the world. Precision Fermentation is similar to making beer. Instead of yeast, scientists feed corn sugar to strains and produce polymers and textiles.

(Springfield-jm) – Lawmakers return to the state capitol today where the focus starts shifting to a new budget. One of the major topics to be discussed is funding for handling the migrant crisis. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City. Lawmakers are expected to be in session through Thursday.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is seeking assistance from the public regarding deceptive practices. On January 18th a female entered Schnucks in Champaign. The female selected numerous items and proceeded to the check-out lanes. The female used a stolen/washed check to pay for the groceries then requested cash back. The female fled the area in an unknown vehicle. Police seek the public’s assistance in identifying the subject captured on video. The suspect was described as a heavyset white female, approximately 5’10” tall, with red hair and glasses. The female had a black tattoo of an unknown symbol on the back of her neck.

(Undated-jm) – The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security recognizes March as Severe Weather Preparedness Month. To help families prepare for severe weather, officials are sharing interagency resources and featuring its emergency preparedness kits. In 2023, Illinois received two significant Presidential Disaster Declarations for severe weather and flooding that totaled over $462 million in damages. A statewide tornado drill will take place at 11 a.m. Wednesday.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Association of County Clerks said House Bill 4709 would make it more difficult to find polling places. The bill would allow school boards to deny county clerks access to public school buildings for use as polling places. State Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, introduced HB4709 that would amend the current state statute that says if a county board chooses a school to be a polling place, then the school district must make the school available. If passed, the school board would be able to deny a county board.

(Washington-jm) – Three countries are running almost neck and neck to be the biggest buyer of U.S. agricultural products. Gary Crawford reports..

(Champaign-jm) – U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski and Mary Miller sent a letter to Postmaster Louis DeJoy raising serious concerns about the U.S. Postal Service’s plan to downsize the Champaign, Illinois Processing and Distribution Center. The reps say that the plan could mean worse delivery rates and the relocation of dozens of jobs to the Chicago area. Budzinski encourages local residents to take advantage of the current public comment period and submit feedback on the future of these local mail facilities.

(Springfield-jm) – Republican lawmakers are questioning Governor J-B Pritzker’s statements on the state’s growing economy. One of those is 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Undated-jm) – Average gas prices in Illinois have risen 23.7 cents per gallon in the last week, according to GasBuddy. The average gas price in Illinois is $3.70 per gallon. Prices in Illinois are 55.5 cents per gallon higher than a month ago and stand 20.1 cents per gallon higher than a year ago.

WPXN News Notes…

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will have a food drive in southern Champaign County today from 9-9:30 at the Feed the Need in St. Joseph, 10-10:30 at the old high school ballpark in Ogden, 11-11:30 at the parking lot across from the Homer Post Office, 12:30-1 at the Sidney Community Building, 1:30-2 at the Philo village office and 2:30-3 at The Oaks in Tolono.

(Springfield-jm) – As not only tradition but federal law, soon it will be time for Illinois residents to spring their clocks forward to take advantage of more daylight hours. Daylight saving time officially returns at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 10, an annual ritual that for many is bittersweet. That’s because along with gaining sunlight daily, Illinoisans will lose an hour of sleep. One of those calling for an end to this system, state Rep. Bob Morgan stressed the consequences of sleep loss especially for children and senior citizens. A federal change is needed to make daylight saving time permanent.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Public Health announced that it is adopting updated guidance from the CDC that streamline and simplify recommendations for dealing with a range of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, flu and RSV. The new guidance focuses on protecting those most at risk of serious illness. The new CDC guidance no longer requires that those who test positive for COVID-19 should isolate for a minimum of five days before returning to work or other activities and instead focuses on isolation until symptoms improve, which could be shorter or longer than five days.

(Washington-jm) – The Agriculture Secretary Friday said plans are for a meeting later this month between ag leaders within the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Rod Bain reports…

(Paxton-jm) – Paxton Buckley Loda Junior High Principal Josh Didier has been named one of Horace Mann/Illinois Principal Association principals of the year. Champaign Centennials Sara Sanders, Mahomet Lincoln Trails Megan Hunter and Salt Fork Junior Highs Brian Allensworth were also recipients of the award.

(Vermilion County-jm) – The Vermilion County Coroner has confirmed the identity of the crash victim who died on westbound Interstate 74 Saturday night. 22-year-old Dylan L. Clark of Mattoon died after an accident involving his Chevrolet and subsequently a Lexus, Coroner Jane McFadden said. An autopsy is scheduled for today. The Vermilion County Coroner’s Office is working with Illinois State Police on this ongoing investigation.

(Rantoul–jc) –  VIllage of Rantoul leaders continue to look at the electricity and power needs of residents, businesses and manufacturers as they continue to grow. The prospect power sub-station is one project and Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says leaders continue to evaluate the power needs for the village as it changes for the future…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith.

(Champaign-jm) – The Illinois Community College Board announced $3 million in state grants to community colleges to expand access to its Dual Credit Program that allows students the ability to earn college-level credits while still in high school. The Dual Credit Program has become a progressively popular option for Illinois high school students with enrollment in the program increasing by 29% cumulatively over the last five years and 65% cumulatively over the last decade. Parkland College is set to get just over $149 thousand.

(Ford County–jc)  One question on the primary election ballot for Gibson City residents is a tax infrastructure question. Ford County Clerk Amy Frederick says it is a yes-or-no question…

A yes vote gives authorities of the City of Gibson the authorization to levy a Non-Home Rule Municipal Retailers' Occupation Tax at a rate of 1% for expenditures for some municipal operations. The primary election is set for March 19th in Illinois.

(Chicago-jm) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is cautioning residents to remain vigilant against repair scammers in the wake of severe storms that hit northern Illinois last week. According to Raoul, scammers often exploit in the aftermath of storms, preying on people who have incurred property damage to their homes or businesses. The National Weather Service reported 11 tornadoes touched down around the Chicago area.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity has announced that applications for Round 2 of the Cannabis Social Equity Loan Program are open. With the program, $12 million is available through Direct Forgivable Loans fully financed by taxpayer funds. Loan amounts, up to $240,000, will be provided to qualified, licensed social equity dispensaries. Applicants will be selected based on factors including social equity status, financial need and progress toward becoming operational.

(Washington-jm) – The Agriculture Secretary acknowledges the complexity of the U.S. relationship with China, particularly in the context of agriculture and ag trade. Rod Bain reports…

(Champaign-jm) – One person was injured, and a dog died in a Champaign house fire Saturday. The Champaign Fire Department was called to the 1300 block of N. Walnut St. at 6:28 a.m. Heavy smoke and fire was coming from the single-story home when crews arrived. The cause of the fire is under investigation. One occupant was taken to the hospital. A dog died in the fire.

(Watseka-jm) – The Watseka Fire Department is investigating a house fire at a vacant residence over the weekend. Crews from Watseka and Crescent City battled the blaze near North 2nd and West Sheridan Streets. The house was a total loss.

(Ford County–dm) Ford County residents will soon have the opportunity to vote on a 1% school facilities sales tax referendum.  Paxton Buckley Loda Superintendent Travis Duley tells us how the new funds have to be spent, and how PBL is planning to use the money,

Paxton Buckley Loda Superintendent Travis Duley.  The upcoming election is Tuesday March 19th.

(Champaign-jm) – The U.S. Postal Service has set a date for a public-input meeting as it continues to review the northwest Champaign post office and considers transferring some of the site’s mail-processing operations to other offices. The meeting will be at 6 p.m. March 12 at the University YMCA, 1001 Wright St., Champaign. The Postal Service is conducting a facility review of the Champaign Processing and Distribution Center at 2001 N. Mattis Ave. According to a public notice from the agency, a summary of the review will be posted at about.usps.com at least one week prior to the event. The Postal Service’s meeting notice states that its initial findings support keeping the Mattis Avenue post office open and modernizing it as a local processing center “with simplified processes and standardized layouts.” It’s possible the distribution center could be closed and services moved to the Chicago suburbs.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois' efforts are all over the map in a new report on what state and federal officials are, or could be, doing to discourage tobacco use. Terri Dee reports…