(Undated-jm) – GasBuddy reported another week of falling gas prices on Monday, making for five straight weeks of decreasing averages in Central Illinois, the entire state and the country. The statewide average fell by 18 cents to $4.13. Locally, prices in Gilman is $4.10, Hoopeston $4.09, Mahomet $4.20, Milford $4.10, Onarga $4.12, Potomac $4.12, St. Joseph $4.15, Rantoul $4.37 and Paxton $4.40.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker could soon sign a plan to improve public safety by increasing fines for people driving around school buses using an extended stop arm. Drivers stopped by police for ignoring the safety arms are currently fined a minimum of $300 and have their driver’s license suspended for six months. Some Illinois school districts also have stop arm safety technology, but the fine for drivers going past those arms is capped at $150. The plan would create a uniform $300 fine for the first offense and $1,000 for a second or subsequent violation.

(Paxton–jc)  With the start of summer, its time for street work with the use of motor fuel tax dollars for many area communities.  Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the city’s street department has the number of dollars to use for upgrades and re surfacing projects in Paxton continues…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Kankakee-jm) — Kankakee police are investigating a Father’s Day shooting that left one person dead. 40 year old Randal Young was pronounced dead at Riverside Hospital. Young’s 59 year old father suffered a non life threatening wound. The shooting happened in the 1100 block of East Merchant Street around 3:30pm.

(Paxton–jc)  The Frederick Community Bank and the Buckley State Bank have announced plans to merge into one bank corporation. The merger is expected to be complete by December of this year. The Frederick Community Bank started as the Clarence State Bank in 1908 and now with the merger of the Buckley State Bank has locations in Paxton Cissna Park and Buckley. 

(Champaign-jm) — A teenager accused of shooting another teen in January is now facing adult charges of attempted murder. New charges of attempted murder were filed against 17 year old Brandon Huff after he pleaded not guilty to one count of aggravated battery with a firearm. Huff entered a not guilty plea. He is accused of shooting two teenagers from Rantoul. A 14 year old was injured but survived, a 16 year old was not injured. He’s due back in court July 22nd.

(CissnaPark)- Some changes are coming to downtown Cissna Park. Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer tells us about those changes… 

Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer

(Gilman–dm)-Monday, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity celebrated Incobrasa Industries’ new soybean processing plant and solar array in Gilman, reinforcing Illinois' position as the nation's leading soybean-producing state and a growing hub for biofuels, food processing, and advanced agricultural manufacturing. The completed project includes a 170,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility to meet the growing demand for its soybean crushing services, creating 40 new full-time jobs for the region while retaining 200 positions. Located adjacent to Incobrasa's existing facility, the new processing plant doubles the company's production capacity and can process nearly 100 million bushels of soybeans annually.

(Rantoul–jc)  The village of Rantoul and the emergency phone MetCad system are adding the University of Illinois system into their local agreements. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says the village continues to work with other agencies for all emergencies…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(The Center Square) – A potential plan to deploy federal immigration agents to polling places this fall is illegal and would suppress voters, an Illinois congressman warned this week, while demanding answers from top brass at the Department of Homeland Security. In a letter to DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin, U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., warned that sending ICE or Homeland Security personnel to voting sites would be illegal and create a “chilling effect” on voter rights. Last week, Mullin made the argument to CNN hosts that ICE deployment shouldn’t be ruled out, citing a potential for non-citizens to fraudulently attempt to vote in the coming election.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill banning junk fees and creating price transparency for Illinois consumers has arrived on Governor J-B Pritzker's desk. The plan makes it unlawful for any business to advertise, display or offer a price for products or services that does not include all mandatory fees or surcharges before taxes. Sponsors say junk fees cost an average family of four $3,200 annually.

(Springfield-jm) – The plan to tackle growing frustration over digital grocery store coupons has arrived on Governor J-B Pritzker’s desk. State lawmakers originally wanted to require grocery stores with digital coupons to have a paper option easily accessible to customers. However, this bill requires retailers to honor digital promotions through automatic or point of sale discounts, barcodes or quick response codes. Grocery stores violating this requirement could face lawsuits and fines under the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Practices Act.

(Springfield–jc)  With the near calendar fiscal year budget already signed by Illinois Governor J B Pritzker, one area Republican Senator continues to blast the amount of increased spending by the majority-democrats in Illinois. 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet says this year’s budget is nearly 56 Billion Dollars and the increase in taxes for Illinoisans also continues to grow…

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose Republican from Mahomet

(Decatur-jm) – ADM is set to invest $103 million in improvements to its Decatur facilities. Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce announced Monday. ADMs investment will create 50 new full time jobs and keep over 1,000 present full time jobs. ADM will replace old control systems across its west and east soybean plants and the corn wet mill.

(Paxton–jc)  The United States of America is celebrating the 250th signing of the Declaration of Independence. The Paxton Chamber of Commerce and Paxton Mainstreet are planning a special reading during the 4th of July activities in Pells Park says Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Champaign–jc)  No injuries were reported Monday morning after a two vehicle crash happened in the I-72 to I-57 southbound ramp. The accident happened about 8-30 Monday morning. When officers got to the scene, one of the vehicles was overturned in a nearby ditch. The exchange area remains open this afternoon. Police remind the motoring public to take extra precaution in work zone areas like the I-74, I-72 and I-57 interstate construction zone in Champaign.

(USDA–dm)-The first phase of USDA Farm Service Agency's annual election process for county committees is currently taking place with candidate nominations. Rod Bain has the story

WPXN News Notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper on Friday, June 26th from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, June 27th from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 26th with In Blue performing in downtown.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry on Friday, June 26th from 4:30-7pm at the Legion Building at Durham Park.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, June 27th from 9-2.

Onarga will hold their Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The parade will take place at 11 am, antique tractor pull at noon, talent show and lazy days car show at 1, firemen's water ball, bingo, and petting zoo at 2, kiddie tractor pull at 3, Live Music by The Fairchilds at 4 along with adult and kid retro games at 4. 

Rankin will hold their Independence Day celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The day starts with a fun walk/run at 8 am, community church service at 10, food stands open at 11, bingo 11:30-12:30, kids games 12:30-1:30, car show 1-4, cake walk at 1:30, foam party 2-3, kids activities from 4-8, live music from 3:30-9 and fireworks at dusk.

The Paxton Fire Department will hold their cash bash on Saturday, June 27th from 3-11 pm. Tickets are $100 each. Grand prize is a street legal Denajo Rover XL golf cart.

(Chicago-jm) – A spate of shootings in Chicago has led to at least 38 injuries and seven deaths since Friday evening, police say, prompting President Donald Trump to renew his call for a military intervention in the nation's third-largest city. The president says the feds could help. The office of Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, a potential 2028 Democratic presidential contender who has repeatedly rebuffed Trump's calls for a military intervention, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 

(Gilman–jc)  Illinois Governor J B Pritzker will be in Iroquois County today for a ribbon cutting ceremony with a local ag company. Governor Pritzker will deliver remarks at the Incobrasa Ribbon Cutting ceremony in Gilman this afternoon.

Incobrasa is announcing a modernization of the facility on Gilman’s west side near Interstate 57. The event is set for 2 this afternoon. 

(Paxton–jc) A proposed solar project is being talked about by Paxton City leaders. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the council and those with the city are learning about their options …

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold. Meetings on the idea will be set between now and the next city council meeting. 

(Ford County-jm) – Paxton firefighters were called to a vehicle fire on I-57 early Saturday afternoon. The call came in around 1:30pm. About an hour earlier, Roberts and Melvin firefighters were called to a vehicle fire of their own. No injuries were reported in either fire.

(Clinton Lake-jm) – No injuries were reported following a boat fire on Clinton Lake this past weekend. Firefighters were called to the Weldon Access Boat Ramp for a report of a boat on fire in the water. The fire was put out by the time firefighters arrived. 

(Paxton–dm)-The Paxton Library has lots of weekly activities going on throughout the summer.  Paxton Library Director Deb Mason tells us about some of those activities.

Paxton Library Director Deb Mason.

CHAMPAIGN – Two Champaign teens are in custody for their alleged roles in a shooting last Monday that killed one person and injured another. Police have arrested a 16-year-old and a 14-year-old  in connection with the shootings The two subjects now face multiple charges, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, and aggravated battery with a firearm. Charges are reviewed by prosecutors and may be amended, upgraded or reduced. Because the suspects are juveniles, state law prohibits the release of additional identifying information.

(The Center Square) – The Illinois Economic Development Summit is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. Topics include transportation, energy, workforce strategy, tourism, housing and the economy. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and the Illinois Economic Development Corporation are scheduled to make presentations.

(Peoria–jc)  - The Illinois EPA has announced Clean Ports Program meetings for stakeholders and near-port communities to begin a planning process for port decarbonization.The first scheduled meeting for port districts within the Illinois Waterway Ports Commission is Tuesday in Peoria.

(Sangamon County-jm) – Sean Grayson, the former Sangamon County sheriff's deputy convicted in the 2024 killing of Sonya Massey, is scheduled to appear before the Illinois Prisoner Review Board on July 31 in an effort to seek his release. Details regarding the nature of the hearing were not immediately available. One possibility is a hearing under the Joe Coleman Medical Release Act, which allows incarcerated individuals suffering from terminal illnesses or severe medical incapacitation to request early release. Grayson was convicted of second-degree murder in October in connection with the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old mother of two, inside her home in an unincorporated area of Sangamon County.

(Melvin–jc)  The 100th annual Ford County Fair wrapped up Saturday at the fair grounds in Melvin. Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Advisor Mike White says the local F F A Section fair took place Friday morning in Melvin…

Paxton Buckley Loda F  F A Advisor Mike White. White is officially retiring from PBL this week

(Urbana-jm) – No injuries were reported after an armed robbery at an Urbana gas station on Friday morning. The Urbana Police Department said officers responded just before 5 a.m. to the Circle K on N. Cunningham Avenue for a reported armed robbery. Police learned that an unknown man had entered the store demanding money from the register. Urbana police stated that the suspect fired multiple shots, but no workers were hit. The suspect eventually ran away and was described as wearing black clothing, black shoes, a black ski mask, gloves and carrying a black backpack.  The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information can contact Urbana police at 217-384-2320 or submit tips to Crime Stoppers at 217-373-8477.

(The Center Square) – AAA’s average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in Illinois dropped to $4.24 on Friday, down from $5.05 one month ago but up from $3.44 one year ago. AAA’s national average on Friday was $3.97 per gallon. All of the states bordering Illinois are below $3.80.

(Paxton–dm)-The Paxton Church of Chris will be hosting Multi-Dove Award winning andGrammy nominated artist Christian Davis. Paxton Church of Christ Pastor Kevin Heiser has the details.

Paxton Church of Christ Pastor Kevin Heiser

(The Center Square) – A law that is set to legalize physician-assisted suicide in Illinois is being challenged by disability-rights advocates and organizations in federal court in the Northern District of Illinois. The law, signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker last December, is set to go into effect on Sept. 12, but disability rights advocates, which make up the “End Assisted Suicide Coalition,” are seeking to prevent it. Similar laws have been passed in 13 states across the country, with many also being challenged in court. Ernest Galvan, a lawyer representing the group in its lawsuit against Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Health and its director, told The Center Square the group is challenging the law for its lack of compliance with the U.S. Constitution and Americans with Disabilities Act.

(Illinois–jc)  –Illinois ranks last on a list of the best states for an affordable summer road trip in the contiguous U.S. Dunhill Travel Deals considered hotel, gas and everyday prices along with national park sites, attractions and road quality.

Arkansas finished first. Iowa and Indiana ranked ninth and tenth, respectively.

WPXN News notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their pork chop sandwich supper on Friday, June 26th from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, June 27th from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 26th with In Blue performing in downtown.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry on Friday, June 26th from 4:30-7pm at the Legion Building at Durham Park.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, June 27th from 9-2.

Onarga will hold their Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The parade will take place at 11 am, antique tractor pull at noon, talent show and lazy days car show at 1, firemens water ball, bingo, and petting zoo at 2, kiddie tractor pull at 3, Live Music by The Fairchilds at 4 along with adult and kid retro games at 4. 

Rankin will hold their Independence Day celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The day starts with a fun walk/run at 8 am, community church service at 10, food stands open at 11, bingo 11:30-12:30, kids games 12:30-1:30, car show 1-4, cake walk at 1:30, foam party 2-3, kids activities from 4-8, live music from 3:30-9 and fireworks at dusk.

(Springfield-jm) – New data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the unemployment rate in Illinois remained stable in May while payroll jobs were up for the third straight month. The Illinois Department of Employment Security published the data on Thursday, saying unemployment was at 5.1% while the state added 6,000 jobs. The number of unemployed persons — 336,300 — fell by 0.3 percentage points from April, but is up by 15.3% compared to the same month one year ago. The labor force also shrank by 0.2%.

(Paxton–jc)  –  The city of Paxton is continuing talks with a solar farm company on the prospects of bringing a solar operation that would benefit the city and its residents. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says initial talks have taken place and the city council will meet with the company to see if it is a good fit for Paxton…
 

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Police Department is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and hundreds of other law enforcement to crack down on impaired and unbuckled drivers over the Fourth of July holiday.  There will be high-visibility enforcement throughout the state from June 19 through July 6.

(Rantoul–jc)  The Maverick Pipe Company along with Combe Labs are expanding operations in the village of Rantoul. That means more quality jobs in the village. Village leaders continue to also work with Parkland College on their jobs programs, to train people for those jobs says RantouL Mayor Sam Hall the Third…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Urbana-jm) – The Illini Alert system on the University of Illinois campus will be one of several things being incorporated into a new app. The University of Illinois Police Department announced the development of Illini-Alert+, the official safety app of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Division of Public Safety. The app will include not just Illini alert notifications, but also emergency action guides and plans and also a “friend walk” request so people are not walking across campus alone.

(Ford County–dm)-Ford County Residents will soon find their Ford County Real Estate Tax Bills in the mail.  Ford County Treasurer Taylor Burnett has some important dates to remember

Ford County Treasurer Taylor Burnett

(The Center Square) – State financial aid continues to expand within higher education, allowing money to go to eligible illegal immigrant students. The increased spending is heating up debate over who should receive state taxpayers-funded higher education benefits. Currently, around 21 states and the District of Columbia offer in-state tuition eligibility to certain illegal immigrant students, and 18 states and D.C. provide access to state financial aid programs, according to Higher Ed immigration. In Illinois, access to state financial aid through House Bill 460 was signed into law by the Gov. J.B. Pritzker in December 2025.  Illinois allocated over $700 million for MAP grants during the 2024 fiscal year.

(The Center Square) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced on Thursday that the state’s unemployment rate remained unchanged at Five point One percent in May.  The number is  almost one percentage point higher than it was one year ago, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Total nonfarm payrolls saw a third consecutive over-the-month increase in May, up 6,000 to 6.2 million. 

(Southern Illinois–jc) Teams are continuing to survey damage after severe thunderstorms pounded parts of central and southern Illinois on Wednesday.

There were reports of tornadoes, including one in the Effingham  and Charleston areas, along with wind gusts up to 80 miles per hour, hail as large as three inches in diameter and localized flooding.

(Springfield-jm) — Gov. JB Pritzker gave Chicago Bears fans hope earlier this month when he said he's open to a special session to keep the team in Illinois. However, Democratic leaders say they're not bringing lawmakers back to work until the Bears return to the negotiating table.  The Bears have shifted focus to building a stadium across the border, forcing Illinois to make a Hail Mary attempt, but when will the Springfield politicos return to their home field? Pritzker said the team has called him and members of his administration with thoughts about ways to move forward, but the Bears have not been clear about the bill they need passed or whether they have the votes. Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch told his members that they will work on a plan to save the Bears throughout the summer. Yet, no hearings have been scheduled, and many are asking why representatives are holding the ball.The General Assembly is not scheduled to return to Springfield until the veto session begins Nov. 17. Some say more lawmakers will be willing to support a Bears bill after the Nov. 3 election.

(Chicago-jm) – Former President Barack Obama formally opened his presidential center in Chicago on Thursday with a call to defend democracy as three former presidents joined him on stage in an extraordinary event featuring politicians, A-list celebrities, athletes and other internationally known figures. Bono, John Legend, Christina Aguilera, Marc Anthony and Eddie Vedder took turns on the stage ahead of Bruce Springsteen and Stevie Wonder, who closed the show singing “Higher Ground” as the former presidents, world leaders and others danced along.

(Melvin–dm)-The Ford County Fair continues, and Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins tells us what’s going on at the fair today…

Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson  Diane Perkins

(Urbana-jm) – Several streets in Urbana will be temporarily closed this afternoon to accommodate a Juneteenth parade. The parade will begin at East Colorado Avenue and South Philo Road and travel west on Colorado Avenue to South Vine Street. Participants will then head north on Vine Street to Florida Avenue, east on Florida Avenue to South Philo Road, and conclude at South Philo Road and East Colorado Avenue.

(Washington–jc)  What do the U S DA meat prices look like for June?.  World Agricultural Outlook Board Chair Mark Jekanowski has the numbers…

World Outlook Board Chairman Mark Jekanowski

(Undated-jm) – Today is Juneteenth. It’s a federal holiday so banks and government buildings are closed today. There will also be no mail delivery today. All services will be up and running either Saturday or Monday.

(Buckley–jc)  The village of Buckley has its “Fun Day” set for Saturday. The day starts with a St John’s Ladies Aid Bake Sale and a Buckley Sportsman’s Club Fishing Derby. Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster talks about some activities in the afternoon, including the “duck” race…

Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster

(The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signed legislation elevating the Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission to the cabinet-level Illinois Department of Disability Advocacy and Guardianship. Among other things, House Bill 862 creates a new advisory council within the department, joining the current Division of Legal Advocacy and Division of Disability Rights and Protections.

The new department is slated to begin operations on July 1, 2027.

(Gilman–dm)-The Iroquois West School Board will have their regular school board meeting on Monday, June 22nd.  Items on the agenda include approval of the Life/Health/Safety 10 year survey, renew their property/casualty and liability insurance policies. Also they will have the first reading of the employee handbook as well as the first reading of many board policiesThe board meeting will start at 7pm in the High School Board Room

(Springfield–jc0  The Illinois Supreme Court and the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts have announced that Jerome Galang will be the new director of the Illinois Judicial College. Galang most recently worked as assistant division director at the Federal Judicial Center and previously served eight years in the Judicial Education Division and Judicial College Division of the AOIC.

(Bloomington–jc)   The Illinois High School Association Board has finalized expectations that require schools to have a 35-second shot clock for varsity boys and girls basketball games, starting with the 2026-27 IHSA season.

The IHSA says if a shot clock is not installed or properly mounted, the host school must secure an alternate facility or allow the opponent to host the contest.

WPXN News notes…

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series tonight with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

The Buckley Fire Department will hold a pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturday, June 20th from 6-10 am at the Buckley Fire Station.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

Onarga will hold their Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The parade will take place at 11 am, antique tractor pull at noon, talent show and lazy days car show at 1, firemen's water ball, bingo, and petting zoo at 2, kiddie tractor pull at 3, Live Music by The Fairchilds at 4 along with adult and kid retro games at 4. 

Rankin will hold their Independence Day celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The day starts with a fun walk/run at 8 am, community church service at 10, food stands open at 11, bingo 11:30-12:30, kids games 12:30-1:30, car show 1-4, cake walk at 1:30, foam party 2-3, kids activities from 4-8, live music from 3:30-9 and fireworks at dusk.

(Undated-jm) — The WPXN listening area missed out on the worst of the severe weather yesterday. The day started with a level 4 out of 5 severe weather risk however morning rains kept the severe threat to the south. Tornadoes were reported on the ground near Springfield, Charleston and Effingham. Large hail was also reported. The only issues in the WPXN listening area was heavy rain that brought flooding.

(Springfield-jm) – Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced on Wednesday that some senior drivers will soon have an easier time renewing their driver’s licenses. Starting July 1, Illinois will be eliminating the mandatory behind-the-wheel driving tests for Illinois drivers ages 79 to 86, Giannoulias said. This change is part of the Road Safety & Fairness Act, which raises the age at which senior drivers will have to take the tests from 79 to 87. Drivers aged 79 to 86 will still need to pass a vision screening to renew their licences. Drivers aged 81 to 86 will need to renew their licence every two years, with only a vision test. Drivers aged 87 and older will still need to renew their licence annually with a vision test and a behind-the-wheel test. Illinois is the only state that requires senior drivers to have their behind-the-wheel skills tested annually.

(Mahomet–jc)  Illinois Governor J B Pritzker signed the new fiscal year budget into law this week. It is the highest amount of spending in the state’s history at 55 point 9 Billion dollars. 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose Republican from Mahomet says the democrat majority continues to spend more each year and will look for even more money during the fall veto session…

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet

(Rantoul–jc)  The Maverick Pipe Group in Rantoul is expanding its operations in the village and village leaders are helping with a redevelopment agreement with the local company. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third talks about the expansion and agreement…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign City Council voted 7-0 on a construction bid for phase two of the expansion to the downtown plaza. The expansion will be at Neil and Washington Streets, and it will fill in the nearby parking lot and add a green space. There will also be upgrades to the surrounding streets. A $12 million grant is paying for most of the project, and nearly $2 million of TIF money and tax revenue will also go to the plaza. Construction is expected to start in August.

(Benton–jc)  A federal jury has convicted a former Harrisburg man for manufacturing and possessing unregistered short-barreled rifles and possessing unregistered silencers. Yaroslav Vishnevski, 33, was charged in May 2024 after U.S. Customs and Border Protection intercepted a package from China containing unregistered silencers addressed to his residence.  Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 24 at the Benton courthouse.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Park District pool is up and running for the summer. There were a lot of thank you’s from the Paxton Park District Board to those getting the pool open for the season.  Paxton Park District Board Interim President Craig Kief talks about several of those…

Paxton Park District Interim President Craig Kief

(The Center Square) – A state representative has filed new legislation aimed at keeping the Chicago Bears in Illinois, but Governor  J-.B  Pritzker says the Bears have to decide what they want first. 52nd District State Representative, Republican  Martin McLaughlin of Barrington Hills filed his legislation this week. House  Bill 57-97 applies to private developments with more than  Two and a half Billion dollars of investments located in counties with more than one million people. The proposal calls for the state to spend 1 point two Billion dollars on  the project.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois waterfowl blind drawings sites and schedule for the 2026 season have been released. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will conduct the blind drawings at public hunting sites across the state in July and August. Applicants need to present a 2025 or 2026 regular Illinois hunting license. Apprentice licenses will not be accepted. Youth license holders must also present hunter safety certification. Hunters must also provide a 2025 or 2026 Illinois migratory waterfowl stamp, unless exempt by law, and a valid photo ID at registration. Applicants need to be 16 or older by the drawing date.

(Paxton–jc)  The state of Illinois is looking into legislation to regulate the use of E-Bikes and scooters.City of Paxton leaders are also wanting to put some regulations into place as these types of vehicles are used in the city. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the city is looking for direction from the state for safety and more…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Northern Illinois–jc0  The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce has launched the Grow Chicago initiative to support the success of local businesses and boost economic development According to the chamber’s 2025 Chicagoland Small Business Outlook Survey, conducted in partnership with the University of Illinois Chicago College of Business, 70% of respondents said they expected the local economy to get worse in the coming year, a dramatic increase from 43% the year before.

(Bloomington-jm) – Bloomington’s Miller Park Zoo saw the birth of four red wolf pups earlier this month, a critically endangered species, with only 25 known to be left in the wild. The newborns are considered important, because of the animals’ endangered status, but the zoo said the end goal is to raise them to eventually be released back into the wild and add to their population. The zoo was able to find a male for the female red wolf, after its last male red wolf passed away late last year. For those interested in seeing the pups, the zoo said to keep an eye on its social media to see when they’re ready for the public. For now, if viewers go early enough, the mom red wolf peeks outside early in the morning to view spectators.

(Melvin–jc)  Activities at the Ford County Fair were  cancelled for last night due to wet weather. Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins says the fair has an Illiana Truck and Tractor Pull set for Tonight, the Journey Cover band Resurrection set for Friday night and another big day on Saturday…

Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins

(Normal-jm) – Illinois State University’s leaders are less than thrilled about the state budget, signed Tuesday by Gov. Pritzker, which provides a much smaller funding increase than ISU’s president requested. Universities never receive all they want at budget time, but the state spending plan that takes effect July 1 did not come close to President Aondover Tarhule’s request. The budget allocates almost $83 million for the university, a 1% increase, or about $822,000 more than the previous fiscal year. The governor’s office is also releasing 2% in reserve funding, which amounts to approximately $1.6 million, for the current fiscal year. Tarhule, appearing before an Illinois House committee in April, asked for $20 million more to help pay for financial aid for low-income students, and to keep up with higher operating costs to keep up with inflation.

(Buckley–jc)  Buckley Fun Day is this Saturday with activities at Buckley Lake. The day starts with a fishing derby and St John’s Ladies Bake sale. Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster says lots of activities are planned to start at 11am…

Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster. WPXN will be stopping by Saturday morning as part of our Summer Fun Tour 2026. It’s stop number 3

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois Governor J-B  Pritzker has signed legislation that provides 110 million dollars  in state taxpayer funds during fiscal year 2027 to expand and invest in Medicaid services. The governor’s office says the taxpayer funds will build a foundation to protect patients in anticipation of federal legislation  impacting the health care system in Illinois.

WPXN News notes…

The 100th annual Ford County Fair will take place through the 20th at the fairgrounds in Melvin.  Today, its an Illiana truck and tractor pulls at 6:30. On Friday night its Journey Tribute Band Resurrection at 7:30.  The annual Demo Derby is set for Saturday night at  6:30.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on today from 11:30-5:30.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 19th with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

The Buckley Fire Department will hold a pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturday, June 20th from 6-10 am at the Buckley Fire Station.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper on Friday, June 26th from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, June 27th from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

Onarga will hold their Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The parade will take place at 11 am, antique tractor pull at noon, talent show and lazy days car show at 1, firemens water ball, bingo, and petting zoo at 2, kiddie tractor pull at 3, Live Music by The Fairchilds at 4 along with adult and kid retro games at 4. 

Rankin will hold their Independence Day celebration on Saturday, June 27th. The day starts with a fun walk/run at 8 am, community church service at 10, food stands open at 11, bingo 11:30-12:30, kids games 12:30-1:30, car show 1-4, cake walk at 1:30, foam party 2-3, kids activities from 4-8, live music from 3:30-9 and fireworks at dusk.

Hoopeston will hold their Red, White and Boom on Friday, July 3rd with a color run at 8 am, car show at 10, chili cookoff at noon, touch a truck from 2-4, golf cart and pet parade at 4, red white and boom party featuring inflatables, cornhole tournament and watermelon eating from 4:30-7:30, 90 proof performing at 7:30 and fireworks at dusk at the soccer fields.

(Undated-jm) – Significant severe weather including intense long track tornadoes and destructive winds are possible across the WPXN listening area today. The National Weather Service has the area under a level 4 out of 5 for the dangerous storms. Two rounds of weather are expected. A round that is expected later this morning into the early afternoon and then a larger, more severe and impactful round this evening.

(Springfield–jc)  Reaction from Republicans in Springfield after Illinois Governor J B Pritzker signed a record high 55 point 9 Billion dollar budget on Tuesday. Dean Abbott reports from the capitol…

(Rantoul-jm) – A 19-year-old was taken to the hospital after being shot in Rantoul Tuesday afternoon. The Rantoul Police Department said officers were dispatched to the 1300 block of Juniper Drive around 2:30 p.m. after a caller reported that someone had been shot. When officers arrived on the scene, they found a 19-year-old male victim who had been shot in the leg. He was taken to an area hospital but is expected to be okay. 

(Rantoul–jc) The village of Rantoul is systematically upgrade water wells for the Water treatment plant in the village. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says well number 10 is the next to get the upgrade…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Springfield-jm) – A bill on Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could help wrongfully convicted people receive more compensation from the state. There have been roughly 600 exonerations in Illinois since 1989, but current laws have led to inconsistent and inadequate compensation for exonerees.  This plan could provide exonerees up to $50,000 per year of wrongful imprisonment, including time spent in pretrial detention or a juvenile detention facility before exoneration. The legislation also states that people should receive $25,000 for each year they wrongfully spent on probation, parole or the sex offender registry.

(Melvin–jc)  The first concert was a success at the Ford County Fair in Melvin this past Saturday. The fair continues today through Saturday with a Little Miss and Little Mister contest at 5-30 today and a talent show tonight at 7. Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins says a second concert is set for Friday night with the national cover band–Resurrection…

Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins

(Champaign–jc) One teenager is dead and another is in critical condition after a shooting Monday night in Champaign. In updating our story,  Authorities say officers responded to the shooting around 9-30 Monday night in the area of North McKinley and Paula Avenue Upon arrival, officers found two teenagers with gunshot wounds. Both were taken to local hospitals, where a 16 year old  succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.

(Buckley–jc)  Buckley Fun day is set for Saturday in the southern Iroquois County town. Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster says the day begins with a fishing derby and bake sale…

Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster. WPXN will be stopping by live Saturday morning as part of our Summer Fun Tour 20-26. 

(Springfield–jc)  –The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says it is accepting applications for the State Pheasant Fund Special Funds and the Illinois Habitat Fund Special Funds Grant programs from July 1 through August 1.

The habitat programs are intended to enhance the natural environment for pheasant and wildlife through projects developed by not-for-profit organizations and governmental entities for conservation. Grant funding comes from the sale of habitat stamps.

(Springfield-jm) – A federal lawsuit filed last week seeks to block an Illinois law allowing doctors to help terminally ill patients end their own lives ahead of its Sept. 12 effective date. The complaint, brought by medical advocacy groups, an Illinois-based physician and two disabled Illinoisans, claims the law discriminates against people with disabilities and lacks significant safeguards or oversight, violating due process and equal protection. The End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act, or EOLA, will allow doctors to prescribe lethal medication to a terminal patient if they meet certain qualifications and make two oral requests at least five days apart. The law was passed in October 2025 and signed by the governor in December. 

(Melvin–jc)  The newly crowned Miss Ford County Fair 20-26 is Londyn Roderick from Gibson City.  Rodderick talks about the amount of time spent in practices and preparation to compete in the queen pageant…

She is a senior at Gibson City Melvin Sibley High School…

Miss Ford County Fair Queen 20-26 Londyn Rodeick of Gibson City

(McLean County-jm) – The McLean County Board has approved 13 rules for future data centers, now making the county one of the most restrictive in the state. The regulations include noise limitations, landscaping screens, water source and limitations, battery capacities, and more. Applicants will also have to provide the board with information on anticipated impacts, electricity usage, and a decommissioning plan. 

(Paxton-jm) – A new lawsuit has been filed against a Paxton-Buckley-Loda teacher and former coach who was previously accused of sexual misconduct by former students. This marks the fourth civil lawsuit against Rob Pacey, and the sixth accusation of misconduct. The PBL school district hired a consultant last August to investigate allegations made in June 2025, determining that the teacher did not violate the district's Title IX policies. The lawsuits also accused district staff members of failing to act despite at least 22 reports of misconduct against the teacher.

(Paxton–jc)  The annual City of Paxton Swine and Dine is set for September 19 in the downtown area of the city. The city of Paxton is helping with the popular event with a 15 thousand dollar donation. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the event is growing and “judging” is being done by those trained for the chicken and ribs categories…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Champaign–jc)  All lanes of Interstate 57 northbound near mile marker 222 were closed for several hours yesterday morning. An overturned semi in the northbound lanes was the cause for delays. Traffic was re-routed around the accident scene til around noon. Traffic is back to normal this morning. 

(Kempton–jc)  The Ford County Republican Party is planning their quarterly breakfast event for Saturday July 11th in Kempton. Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett says the subjects covered are those effecting residents of Ford County…

Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett. The event is free to attend.

(The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a 55-point-Nine Billion state budget for fiscal year 2027, with tens of millions of dollars included for non-governmental organizations.The governor placed his signature on the new spending plan in Chicago on Tuesday, calling it his eighth straight balanced budget. The revenue plan imposes new taxes on digital advertising, digital assets, fantasy sports and prediction contests, places new limits on income tax carryover deductions, creates a social media platform fee and raises environmental filing fees and the retail tire tax. This is the biggest budget in the history of the state of Illinois. 

WPXN News notes…

The 100th annual Ford County Fair will take place through the 20th at the fairgrounds in Melvin.  Today and tomorrow Illiana truck and tractor pulls at 6:30. On the 19th its Journey Tribute Band Resurrection at 7:30. On the 20th its the Demolition Derby at 6:30pm.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on Thursday, June 18th from 11:30-5:30.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 19th with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

The 2026 Buckley Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 20th with the ladies aid bake sale and sportsmans club fishing derby at 9 am, tractor show from 10-2, golfing into the lake and kids inflatables from 11-2, CLHS food stand at 11 am, 4-H coloring contest 11-noon, tractor parade at noon, bingo from 1-2, kids tractor pull at 2 and the Lions Club Duck Race at 3:17pm.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill on Governor JB Pritzker's desk could expand access to life-saving asthma medication at schools. The plan allows schools to keep a supply of asthma medication in secure locations that are accessible before, during, or after school where someone may be at risk. That includes practice fields, gyms and other athletic facilities. Emergency asthma treatment was provided more than 2,600 times in participating schools during the 2024-2025 school year alone.

(The Center Square) – The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services has awarded new HealthChoice Illinois contracts to six Medicaid Managed Care Organizations. The state agency says the new agreements will hold the organizations accountable for how they serve customers by promoting whole person care. The program impacts about 2.4 million of the Illinois Medicaid program’s 3.1 million enrollees.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and the Illinois Retail Merchants Association announced $24.7 million in funding for 434 entities through the Illinois Pharmacy Support Program. The program was designed to help pharmacies most at risk of closure or financial strain, especially those in rural areas, low-income areas, or populations with limited access to healthcare. Every eligible pharmacy that applied received $56,892. The 434 pharmacies getting funding span almost all of Illinois' 102 counties. Among the recipients are the Walgreens in Rantoul, the St. Joseph Apothecary in St. Joseph, Gibson Family Medicine and Scott Family Pharmacy in Gibson City, Hudson Drug Shop in Paxton, Gilman Pharmacy in Gilman and Kelly Drugs in Milford. 

(USDA–dm)-What were some of the highlighted items within USDA's supply and demand estimates for U.S. and world soybean crops?  Rod Bain has the story

(Champaign County-jm) – Investigators looking into three retail thefts in Urbana and Savoy believe the same person may be responsible for all of them. Crime Stoppers is asking the public for help in identifying the suspect. Officials said that on May 25 and May 28, the suspect selected at least $500 in trading cards at Savoy’s Walmart and left without paying. Also on May 28, the suspect concealed approximately $160 worth of meat products at Urbana’s Schnucks and also left without paying. The suspect is described as a white male with dark facial hair with tattoos on his arms and upper right back/shoulder. He was wearing the following clothes during each theft: May 25 at Walmart — a black hat, a black tank top, khaki cargo shorts, black and gold Nike shoes, May 28 at Walmart — a black hat, a black flannel shirt, a black t-shirt with red and white lettering and camouflage cargo shorts and May 28 at Schnucks — a black Addidas sweatshirt, the same camouflage cargo shorts and the same black and gold Nike shoes.

(Iroquois County-jm) – A fourth tornado was confirmed in Iroquois County following last week's severe weather outbreak. The EF-1 tornado struck near Milford damaging several outbuildings on a property. The weather service is still assessing 7 additional tracks for potential confirmation of tornadoes. Tomorrow could be another significant severe weather day for the area.

(Melvin–dm)-The 100th Ford County Fair is underway in Melvin.  Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins tells us about the activities going on today at the fairgrounds. 

Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins

(Champaign–dm)-The Champaign County Coroner’s Office has identified the person that had a medical emergency at the Champaign County Correctional Center. David A. Henley, 56, of Penfield, was pronounced dead at 5:32am on June 13, 2026, at Carle Foundation Hospital Emergency Room. An autopsy has been scheduled. The incident remains under investigation by the Champaign County Coroner’s Office and the Illinois State Police.

(Illinois–dm)-The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is inviting families to participate in free fishing days from Friday through June 22. Anglers can fish on these days without purchasing a fishing license, salmon stamp or inland trout stamp. The state charges $15 for resident fishing licenses. Fees for other licenses can be found on IDNR’s fishing licenses website.

(Melvin–jc)  –Gibson City Melvin Sibley’s Londyn Roderick is the 2026 Miss Ford County Fair Queen. The annual pageant was held last night at the fairgrounds in Melvin. Kyra Kitzman of Gibson City was named runner up and Miss Congeniality is Raven Armstrong of Gibson City. 

(Springfield–jc)  –According to new analysis, Illinois has the fifth-highest average federal student loan balance in America, with the average borrower owing $39,042.

S-E-O Backlinks used state-level student loan debt data and checked total statewide balances to show the scale of debt in each location.  Maryland had the highest average borrower debt with $43,781. Illinois was the only Midwestern state in the top 10.

(Chicago–jc)  This is the day Illinois Governor J B Pritzker is expected to sign the largest state budget in Illinois history. The proposed budget is 55 point 9 Billion dollars. The new budget also includes 800 million dollars in more taxes for Illinoisans. The budget is balanced. The governor will sign the budget at 11 this morning. 

(Springfield-jm) – Illinoisans will now have access to a large collection of high quality digital information and educational resources for free by going to their local library or the Illinois State Library’s website. The Illinois Reliable Information Sources program was announced by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. The state entered a contract with EBSCO Information Services, to provide access to more than 50 of their databases to all Illinois residents. The new service includes free access to online databases with e-books, peer-reviewed journals, magazines, newspapers and research databases on topics such as business, education, health, technology, science and more.

(Melvin–dm)-We had a chance to talk with 2025 Miss Ford County Fair Queen Charlie Ulrich and asked her advice to the next Miss Ford County Queen.

2025 Miss Ford County Queen Charlie Ulrich.  Londyn Roderick of Gibson City was named the 2026 Miss Ford County Fair Queen last night.

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana business is closed after they took a direct hit from a tornado last week. Beck’s Country Shop suffered significant damage from the tornado. The large sign out front is laying down, the roof was ripped off and walls collapsed. They intend to re-open but they don’t know when that will happen.

(Undated-jm) - GasBuddy reports the average price for a gallon of gas in Illinois has fallen nearly 20 cents over the past week down to $4.31. It still remains $1.10 higher than a year ago. The average price of diesel is $5.49. The national average for a gallon of gas is $3.99. In Indiana the average price for a gallon of gas is 2-90 cents.

(Paxton–dm)-The kids have been out of school for a couple of weeks, and they are bored.  Paxton Library Director Deb Mason tells us about the Library’s summer reading program.

Paxton Library Director Deb Mason.  You can go to the Library’s website to find more activities.

(Kempton–dm)-Thr Tri-Point Board of Education will hold their monthly meeting on Wednesday June 17th.  Items on the agenda include approval of the 2026-2027 budget, approve Student Handbook updates, consideration of a resolution providing for the issue and sale not to exceed $300,000 of health life safety bonds, and for the levy of taxes to pay the bonds. Also approve a contract in the amount of $19,000 to insulate the ag shop ceiling. Also the board will have an acknowledgement of the retirement of Scott Saffer.  The Board will hold an Amended budget hearing at 6:15, followed by the regular meeting at 6:30

(The Center Square) – The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed legislation sponsored by U.S. Rep. Mary Miller, R-Ill., aimed at strengthening oversight of federal childcare assistance programs and cracking down on fraud.

Speaking on the House floor, Miller urged support for H.R. 7726, the Stop Childcare Scams Act, saying the measure aligns with efforts by President Donald Trump’s administration “to rid the federal government of waste, fraud, and abuse.”

Miller argued the Childcare and Development Block Grant program has long been vulnerable to improper payments and fraud. Citing a 2020 report from the Government Accountability Office, she said there were an estimated $325 million in improper payments nationwide during fiscal year 2019.

WPXN News notes

The 100th annual Ford County Fair will take place now through Saturday at the fairgrounds in Melvin. Tonight its Family night, children's tractor pull and talent show at 7. On Wednesday and Thursday its the Illiana truck and tractor pulls at 6:30. On the 19th its Journey Tribute Band Resurrection at 7:30. On the 20th its the Demolition Derby at 6:30pm.

Ford County ROSC and the Ford/Iroquois Farm Bureau  will host a free rural mental health training on Tuesday, June 16th from 4-6 pm at the Kruse Center in Gibson City.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on Thursday, June 18th from 11:30-5:30.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 19th with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

The 2026 Buckley Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 20th with the ladies aid bake sale and sportsmans club fishing derby at 9 am, tractor show from 10-2, golfing into the lake and kids inflatables from 11-2, CLHS food stand at 11 am, 4-H coloring contest 11-noon, tractor parade at noon, bingo from 1-2, kids tractor pull at 2 and the Lions Club Duck Race at 3:17pm.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their porkchop sandwich supper on Friday, June 26th from 5–7 pm. Cost is $8. They will also host their Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry on Saturday, June 27th from noon–2 pm. Cost is $15.

(Undated-jm) – The National Weather Service spent the weekend assessing damage from last week’s severe weather. They found tornado damage northeast of Ludlow, rating it an EF-1. They also rated EF-1 tornadoes Northwest of Paxton to Southeast of Loda, through the north side of Urbana, through Kickapoo State Park in Vermilion County and on the south side of Hoopeston. EF-0 tornadoes were confirmed from southwest of Gibson City to near Elliott and 2 EF-0 tornadoes from Watseka to west of Rensselaer, Indiana. Damage in Chaneyville was from 100 mph rear flank downdraft winds while strong straight line winds caused the rest of the damage around the WPXN listening area.  Unfortunately, more severe weather including the risk of damaging winds and tornadoes is in the forecast for Wednesday.

(Champaign County-jm) – A male inmate that had been in custody in Champaign County for nearly a month was found unresponsive Friday morning and later died in the hospital. In a press release, the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office said at approximately 4:45 a.m. on June 13, correctional staff found an inmate unresponsive. Correctional staff and on-site medical staff immediately began performing life-saving efforts. The inmate was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. While the preliminary investigation shows the inmate likely suffered a medical emergency, the Sheriff has asked the Illinois State Police to oversee the investigation of this incident, as is standard protocol for an in-custody death.

(USDA–dm)-Discovery of new outdoor activities and volunteer efforts are available in recreation areas from our nation's forests to your local park.  Rod Bain has the story.

(Champaign-jm) — A 19 year old man is in critical condition after a shooting early Sunday morning in Champaign. Police say the teen who had been shot in the torso arrived at a local hospital just before 2 am. Investigators believe the man was a passenger in a vehicle traveling in the 1600 block of North Mattis Avenue when someone started shooting at the vehicle. Officers located evidence of gunfire in the area.

(Paxton–dm)-If you have bare spots in your yard, Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen tells us one way to repair them.

Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen.  You can hear more from Scott

Saturday mornings at 730 on Scott’s Tips for success,

(St. Louis–dm)-The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis says the Producer Price Index for final demand rose 1.1% in May, following a similar increase in April. The index representing the wholesale cost of U.S. goods and services had not previously seen an increase of more than 1% since March 2022.

(Springfield–dm)-Saturday was the one-year anniversary of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s sentencing on public corruption charges. On June 13, 2025, U.S. District Court Judge John Robert Blakey sentenced Madigan to 7.5 years in federal prison and ordered him to pay a fine of $2.5 million. Madigan, 84, reported to a federal prison camp in Morgantown, West Virginia on Oct. 13, 2025. According to the Bureau of Prisons, the former speaker’s scheduled release date is Dec. 4, 2031.

(Urbana-jm) – Four people including two children were taken to the hospital following a fire in Urbana Saturday afternoon. The fire happened just before 12:30 Saturday afternoon. Two adults and two children were outside the home suffering from burns. They were taken to the hospital. The state fire marshal and Champaign County Sheriff’s office are investigating.

(Paxton–jc)  The annual city of Paxton Swine and Dine is set for Saturday September 19th in downtown Paxton. City of Paxton leaders are making a donation of 15 thousand dollars to help support the growing cooking competition and music festival says Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Urbana-jm) – A former University of Illinois police officer was sentenced to over two decades in prison following his conviction on sexual assault charges. Jerald Sandage was sentenced to 25 years in prison after he was found guilty on two counts of criminal sexual assault. Sandage has three other court cases related to sexual assault still pending.

(Undated-jm) – No Kings Rallies were held across the state including some locally on Sunday. The rallies were held in connection to President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday.  Locally in Paxton about 20 people participated in the downtown peaceful march and protest event. 

(Cissna Park–dm)-The Cissna Park Development Board has been hosting townhall meetings to discuss the creation of a Park District in the city of Cissna Park. Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer talks about what information they get from the participants.

Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachel Bauer

(Mahomet-jm) – A new solar project is being proposed in Mahomet. The project, by a Chicago based company, is being proposed off I-74 near Karadan Drive and Ranch Lane. It would take up to 14 acres and power about 600 homes each year. The company hopes to start construction this fall.

(Vermilion County-jm) – A Vermilion County man will spend the next 12 years in prison after pleading guilty to the sexual assault of a minor in 2023. Jeremy Lowenstein pleaded guilty to predatory criminal sexual assault. He must serve at least 85 percent of the 12 years and will serve a minimum of three years supervised release.

(Illinois–dm)-June 15th is Elder Abuse Awareness Day and the Dept. of aging encourages everyone to learn the warning signs and report abuse.  WPXN's Dan Mushrush has the story

CHICAGO – Friday, Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity along with the Illinois Retail Merchants Association  announced $24 point 7 million dollars in funding for 434 companies through the Illinois Pharmacy Support Program. The effort is to strengthen access to pharmacy services across Illinois. The program was designed to assist pharmacies around the state most at risk of closure or financial strain, particularly those serving in rural areas, low-income communities, or populations with limited access to health care. 

Every eligible pharmacy that applied received the same amount of $56,892 to ensure support for pharmacies that serve as essential health care access points in their communities. 

CHICAGO — Friday, Governor JB Pritzker signed SB 3222 – landmark hemp legislation that strengthens social equity and medical access, reduces regulatory burdens, strengthens oversight, and improves public safety. SB 3222 is key to ensuring that the state’s cannabis sector remains safe for consumers and that Illinois continues to set a national example with its diversity and equity efforts in the cannabis industry. The bill immediately bans the sale of intoxicating hemp products to people under the age of 21,

WPXN News notes…

The 100th annual Ford County Fair continues today through Saturday at the fairgrounds in Melvin. Tonight, its the Queen Pageant at 7. On the 16th its Family night, children's tractor pull and talent show at 7. On the 17th and 18th its the Illiana truck and tractor pulls at 6:30. On the 19th its Journey Tribute Band Resurrection at 7:30. On the 20th its the Demolition Derby at 6:30pm.

Ford County ROSC and the Ford/Iroquois Farm Bureau  will host a free rural mental health training on Tuesday, June 16th from 4-6 pm at the Kruse Center in Gibson City.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on Thursday, June 18th from 11:30-5:30.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 19th with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

WPXN News notes…

The 2026 Buckley Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 20th withThe Buckley Fire Department will holding a pancake and sausage breakfast  6-10 am at the Buckley Fire Station.  The ladies aid bake sale and sportsmans club fishing derby start at 9 am, tractor show from 10-2, golfing into the lake and kids inflatables from 11-2, CLHS food stand at 11 am, 4-H coloring contest 11-noon, tractor parade at noon, bingo from 1-2, kids tractor pull at 2 and the Lions Club Duck Race at 3:17pm.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

(Illinois–jc) Straight-line winds and  rains plummeted East Central Illinois last night. Power outage reports are scattered throughout the WPXN listening area. In Rantoul numerous streets had limbs and branches scattered on village roads. Several power outage reports were made in Rantoul. Also in Champaign County, power outages were reported near Leverett and in Champaign along Prospect Mattis and Kirby Avenues. More power outages were reported in the St Joe, Ogden and Fithian areas due to last night's storms. Iroquois County also reported storm damage from last night. The city of Watseka reports storm damage especially on the south side of the city. The Iroquois County courthouse is closed today. Power outages were also reported in rural Iroquois county this morning. 

The city of Gilman also reported that an Amtrak train was stopped near the Iroquois county town due to debris on the railroad tracks

Please report any damage in your area to news-at-wpxnradio.com.

A tornado was reported in Hoopeston in Vermilion County. The storm moved through the south side of the city. Damage was reported at Hoopeston Area High School and the Nutrien Ag plant near Hoopeston

At the height of the storm, Ameren and E I E C officials reported thousands of customers without power. Efforts to restore power continue this morning. 

A tornado was reported near Streator causing some major property damage.  The National Weather Service is providing damage survey teams this morning to provide more official information on last night's storms.

WPXN News will continue to update this story as more official news becomes available.

(Mattoon–jc)   Following an agreement that includes state tax incentives, Rural King has broken ground on a 75 million dollar store support center in Coles County. According to Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the Illinois Department of Transportation, is working with the city of Mattoon on grant funding for a road that would provide access to the new campus. Later this year, IDOT is expected to break ground on an $82 million reconstruction of the nearby Interstate 57 interchange with Illinois 16.

The Rural King project is expected to create 100 new full-time jobs and retain 719 existing jobs. The farm and home supply retailer was founded in Mattoon in 1960.

(northern Illinois–jc– Illinois American Water customers are invited to comment on the utility’s proposed rate increase at a public forum in Bolingbrook on July 14. Illinois American requested a $142.4 million rate hike from the Illinois Commerce Commission earlier this year and estimated the typical residential customer would pay an extra $14 per month. The forum is scheduled from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on July 14 

(Rantoul–jc) Rantoul leaders took the next step this week to get the new Prospect Sub-Station Project underway on the west side of the village. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says they hired The L E Myers Company at an investment to the village of 4 million 851 thousand dollars…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Paxton–jc)  The city of Paxton continued its help to downtown businesses for redevelopment agreements. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says one is for a property of 202 north Market Street in downtown Paxton…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Undated–jc)   Gas prices continued to drop this week, but they remain well above the 2025 numbers. Triple A’s average price for a gallon of regular unleaded this morning was $4.45 in Illinois, down from nearly 5 dollars in May Triple A’s  current national average is $4.13. Closer to home the average price of gas in Paxton is 4 dollars 85 cents per gallon. In Rantoul the average price is $ dollars 65 cents. Champaign Urbana’s average price for a gallon of gas is 4 dollars 20 cents. In Iroquois County several Caseys locations averages just over 4 dollars per gallon

(Melvin–jc)  The 100th Ford County Fair starts this Saturday and runs through the following Saturday at the fairgrounds in Melvin. Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins talks about the final days of the fair next thursday Friday and Saturday…

Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins

(Illinois–jc) B-P officials say the Whiting, Indiana refinery and the United Steelworkers Local 7-1 bargaining committee remain far apart on proposals to reach a new labor agreement.The two sides held their 63rd formal bargaining session on Wednesday. City officials in Whiting, East Chicago, Hammond and Crown Point have called on BP to end the lockout that began in March. BP said on Wednesday that the refinery continues to operate safely, reliably and compliantly.

(USDA–dm)-The Agriculture Department's June winter wheat production forecast released Thursday shows another reduction in the size of this year's crop.  Rod Bain has the story.

(Springfield-jc)  According to a poll released by the Merchants Payment Coalition, 75% of likely voters say Congress should act to reduce electronic processing fees on credit and debit card transactions. The survey results come after the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act was blocked by a federal judge last week and swipe fee legislation in Colorado was vetoed.Payment processors, banking and credit union associations oppose the Illinois law, which would ban processing fees on the tax and tip portions of credit and debit card transactions.

(Rantoul–dm)-The Rantoul Historical Society and Museum Was founded in 1973 with the purpose of collecting and preserving information on the history of the Village of Rantoul. Rantoul Historical Society and Museum Spokesperson Jim Cheek has more information

 Rantoul Historical Society and Museum Spokesperson Jim Cheek.  The Museum is located at 1040 Pine Ave. in Rantoul.

CHAMPAIGN – On Monday in the city of Champaign, weather permitting, MicroSurfacing Contractors will begin sealing streets in the northern one-third of Champaign The residential streets will be closed for about four hours until cured. Heavily traveled streets with businesses will have one lane open at all times.

Residents will be notified by door flyers the day before closing, and they should park their cars outside the work area if needed.  Do not park in the “No Parking” zones daily. The work throughout the city should take about two weeks to complete

(Cissna Park–dm)-The first Shop the Park in Cissna Park 2026 will be going on this Saturday from 9AM-1PM. Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer tells us what to expect.

Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer. There will also be live music, donuts and coffee from 830-1030, shaved ice and face painting.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle has appointed Angela Manning-Hardimon as chief financial officer of the county’s finance bureau. Manning-Hardimon previously served as a CFO at Fermilab and at the Illinois Institute of Technology.

(Paxton–jc)  The city of Paxton continued its help to downtown businesses for redevelopment agreements. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says one is for a property on Center Street in the city…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

WPXN News notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, June 12th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 12th with Candy Foster and Shades of Blue performing downtown from 6-9pm .

The 2026 Mahomet Soda Fest will take place on Saturday, June 13th from 10-6.

The 100th annual Ford County Fair will take place June 13th-20th at the fairgrounds in Melvin. On the 13th its Clay Walker with Walker Montgomery at 7:30pm. On the 14th its the Jackpot Breeding Gilt Show. On the 15th, its the Queen Pageant at 7. On the 16th its Family night, children's tractor pull and talent show at 7. On the 17th and 18th its the Illiana truck and tractor pulls at 6:30. On the 19th its Journey Tribute Band Resurrection at 7:30. On the 20th its the Demolition Derby at 6:30pm.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul says his office was underfunded by $10 million in the latest budget, and that could make it more difficult to fight legal battles against the Trump Administration while still fulfilling its enforcement duties in the state. Raoul made that statement during an event at the City Club of Chicago where he also talked about the challenges of working with a federal government. The Attorney General’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year is $184.5 million, $10 million less than last year.

(Champaign–jc) Champaign County Sheriff's police responded to a “shots fired’ incident on Wednesday afternoon in rural Champaign. Police say deputies were called to the 200 block of Cameron Drive near Champaign. Upon Investigation, they found additional evidence. No one was hurt in the incident.The  Champaign County Sheriff’s office continues to investigate the incident this morning.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill that will soon head to Governor J-B Pritzker's desk will officially remove an estimated 10,000 people from the state’s Medicaid program, leaving them without any form of health coverage. That group is made up mainly of people who are not U-S citizens but who are in the country legally, according to the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights. President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill removed eligibility for nearly all noncitizens except lawful permanent residents, Cuban and Haitian entrants and migrants from certain Pacific island nations. In order to comply with the change in federal law, Illinois lawmakers included language in the Medicaid omnibus bill removing most groups of noncitizens from eligibility under state law.

(Springfield-jm) – The State Board of Education adopted the Illinois Comprehensive Numeracy Plan Wednesday. The plan is a first of its kind statewide framework designed to support schools and districts in strengthening mathematics for students. The plan provides research based guidance to help teachers build students confidence, reasoning and problem solving skills in mathematics. The plan does not mandate curriculum or specific programs but instead provides a framework that districts can adopt or adapt based on local needs.

(Gibson City–jc)  With a new budget of nearly 56 Billion Dollars, the state of Illinois will have a new budget going into fiscal year 2027. The budget was passed along party lines with the majority Democrats pushing the increases that also include 800 Million dollars in new taxes. Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett of Gibson City reacts to the new budget stating that the budget process continues to be just one sided with the Democrats in the majority…

Ford County Republican Party Spokesperson Tom Bennett

(Gibson City-jm) – Gibson City is moving forward with a plan they hope will generate more residents. The city council is offering an incentive for new homeowners. The new program will give buyers a $10,000 reimbursement after they close on at least one of more than 20 lots where a new home has been built. The city is working with a bank to offer low interest loans to compete with other communities in the area. The lots are in the Railside Estate and Falcon Pointe subdivisions.

(Urbana-jm) – A small amount of mercury was thrown away at a lab on the University of Illinois campus Wednesday, leading to an Illini Alert asking the public to stay away. The alert announced that hazardous materials were released at 205 North Mathews in Urbana, which is the Newmark Civil Engineering Laboratory. The mercury was contained and the incident was resolved.

(Paxton–jc)  City of Paxton council members passed several redevelopment agreements at this week’s city council meeting. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says one is with the Cagle Law Office Building in the downtown area…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(The Center Square) – Illinois Governor  J.B. Pritzker says there could be a special legislative session in Illinois this summer, but he won’t raise people’s taxes to pay for a new Chicago Bears stadium. Speaking in Chicago the governor says a special session would happen if the General Assembly can get together on one piece of Bears legislation.  The fall veto session is scheduled Nov. 17-19 and Dec. 1-3.

(Chicago–jc)  –More than 92,000 Illinois consumers have lost or dropped Affordable Care Act health insurance in recent months. The Chicago Tribune reports that the unusually large decline followed the expiration of tax credits that had helped to curb the plans’ costs. Last month, Democrats on the Joint Economic Committee estimated that nearly 120 thousand people in Illinois would lose health insurance due to the A-C-A cuts.

(Springfield–jc)Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs has announced a new grant program. Charitable Trust Hunger Relief Grants provide up to $5,000 to volunteer-driven food pantries, soup kitchens and similar nonprofit organizations with no full-time employees. A statement from Frerichs’ office said he launched the program after the Trump administration cut funding for the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program and a program that allowed Illinois farmers to sell food to Meals on Wheels and food pantries.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill heading to Governor J–B Pritzker's desk could strengthen the state’s civil rights protections amid federal rollbacks. The plan codifies the use of disparate impact standards within the Illinois Human Rights Act. The change would create stronger protections than the federal minimum by safeguarding people from discrimination in employment, housing, education, financial credit and public housing.

(Springfield-jm) – A plan heading to Governor J-B Pritzker’s desk could help lower drug prices by regulating 340B contracts. The 340B drug pricing program was created in 1992 to improve access to care at safety net hospitals and clinics. It helps low income and uninsured patients get critical medicals, but state hospital leaders believe Big Pharma has limited access to medications, as 340Bs can only sign on pharmaceutical contracts. The bipartisan bill could stop a company from setting restrictions on a contract unless the limit is required by state or federal law. Opponents of the plan say there is no evidence Illinoisans are benefiting from the 340B program and reforms will not change that.

(Melvin–jc)  The Ford County Fair starts on Saturday in Melvin. The First day is the national Country Concert featuring Clay Walker and Walker Montgomery.

Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins says it's a one big day cattle show on Sunday…

Ford County Fair Spokesperson Diane Perkins. The annual Queen Pageant is Monday night at 7. Fair activities continue through the week at the fairgrounds in Melvin

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man linked to a murder in New Mexico over 40 years ago is behind bars. Champaign Police arrested 73 year old Charlie Brown Junior in connection to the November 1983 homicide of 71 year old Agnes Tybo in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

(Champaign County-jm) – A nearly $50 million project is set to give more people, places and businesses access to internet services in Champaign County. Once all three phases are complete, nearly 600 miles of fiber internet will be laid, giving almost 3,000 new household connections to broadband. Phase one is expected to be complete by the end of the year, phase two is expected to be completed by 2030.

(Rantoul–jc)  The Spring and Summer weather is starting to “heat” up and for those needing help, there is a one stop center for those in Rantoul and Champaign County. Community Service Center of rantoul executive Director Cindy Crawford says electricity bill help is available and more…

Rantoul Community Service Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford

(Paxton–jc)  Another “No Kings” rally and march is set for the city of Paxton on Sunday.  The march is set for noon on Sunday at the corner of Pells and Market in downtown Paxton. The event is set on President Trump’s 80th birthday. A meet and greet at Veteran’s Square will take place after the rally and march. 

(The Center Square) – A congresswoman from Illinois has again brought calls on the United States Postal Service to improve rural delivery service in the country.

The issue, notable in her district and across Illinois, was raised amid larger conversations about the independent agency’s financial viability. U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski, Democrat from Springfield, is familiar with congressional discussions surrounding the independent federal agency, as she leads the Congressional Postal Service Caucus in the House. The  US Post Office  is self-funded and operated on 81billion dollars  in revenues with nearly 90 Billion dollars in expenses last year

(Springfie3ld–jc)  –According to a new report from the Tax Foundation, Illinois ranks 27th in the nation with a beer excise tax rate of 23 cents per gallon.

The report said Tennessee has the highest beer tax burden at $1.29. Wyoming’s rate of two cents a gallon is the lowest, followed by Missouri at six cents and Wisconsin at 6.5. The report said, in the United States, taxes are the most expensive ingredient in beer, accounting for more of the final price than labor and materials combined.

WPXN News notes…

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 19th with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

The Buckley Fire Department will hold a pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturday, June 20th from 6-10 am at the Buckley Fire Station.

The 2026 Buckley Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 20th with the ladies aid bake sale and sportsmans club fishing derby at 9 am, tractor show from 10-2, golfing into the lake and kids inflatables from 11-2, CLHS food stand at 11 am, 4-H coloring contest 11-noon, tractor parade at noon, bingo from 1-2, kids tractor pull at 2 and the Lions Club Duck Race at 3:17pm.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry on Friday, June 26th from 4:30-7pm at the Legion Building at Durham Park.

(Springfield-jm) - The Illinois General Assembly has adjourned until the fall veto session. When it reconvenes, soil and water conservation advocates plan to renew their push for county office funding. The Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts was confident going into the budget session the last week of May, but the group says not enough lawmakers recognize conservation issues as being a priority. They had two different initiatives: one to raise appropriations to $10 million for operations for soil and water conservation districts, and the other to create a sustainable revenue source to keep that going through a fee on ag land conversion. 

(Illinois–jc)  Power bills for homes, businesses and farmers have gone up significantly over the past decade. While neighboring Indiana has suspended the gas tax to help save  consumers and residents some dollars, Illinois has seen electric bills go up and no action on any short term gas tax suspension says 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet…

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet

(Urbana-jm) – A Ford County man from  Roberts was sentenced for threats. 41-year-old Paul Theesfield was sentenced to 21 months in prison for mailing a threatening communication. He is currently serving a 12 year sentence for attempted  kidnapping.  Federal prosecutors said Theesfield pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Eric I. Long to mailing a threatening communication to a victim in Gibson City. The long and graphic letter threatened to harm the victim’s husband and sexually assault the victim. Theesfield mailed the letter from a prison in North Carolina.. The victim of the threatening letter was the same woman Theesfield had attempted to kidnap in December  of 2020.

(Paxton–jc) The Paxton Park District Board is very busy helping with Spring and Summer activities, the pool and more. The board is short by a couple of numbers and they continue to look for a full time replacement for the Park District Director position. President Craig Kief says that process was completed last night with finding a new Paxton Park District Director

 They named Gillian Littleton as the recreation director during Tuesday’s meeting. The park board also appointed Carlos Colon and Dominic Brackenhoff to fill commissioner vacancies and elected Craig Kief as the board’s president and Mark Fredricksen as vice president after accepting the resignation of Matt Quinlan as commissioner.

(Vermilion County-jm) – It was nearly four years ago, August of 2022, that some vandalism at property just north of Danville near East Winter Street caused the escape of numerous emus, and provoked several weeks of sightings as they were gradually found. This time, due to the heavy rains and flooding of Saturday night to Sunday morning, over a half-dozen emus ended up getting away after flooding damaged a fence and barn area. Vermilion County Animal Control says that seven or eight are still reported to be roaming around the area, with one having been recaptured. Animal Control advises everyone to not approach or try to handle an emu if they are in your yard.  However, if you can contain them in your yard by closing all gates and entrances, please do so and report the emu immediately. You can report a located emu by going on Facebook, as the owners are following all Facebook postings; or calling Vermilion County Animal Control at 217-431-2660, extension 3.

(The Center Square) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul says his office has been shorted about $10 million from its overall state budget appropriation in 2026.

Raoul said during a City Club of Chicago event Tuesday that funding remained flat in budget legislation for fiscal year 2027 early Monday June First.

Raoul said his office received a $5 million increase in general funds but an overall $10 million decrease in the new budget.

(Buckley–jc)  Buckley Fun Day is coming on Saturday June 20th in the southern Iroquois Town. The day starts with a St Johns Ladies Aid Bake sale at 9, along with a fishing derby, tractor show, food stand and Official Duck race. Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster says it's a low cost way to spend a day with family and friends…

Buckley Fun Day Spokesperson Denise Forrster 

(The Center Square) – The sponsor of a new plan to keep the Chicago Bears in Illinois says his proposal will prevent local taxing bodies from getting stadium development money off the backs of taxpayers. State Rep. Dan Ugaste, R-Geneva, is drafting a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes bill he hopes to file by the end of this week or early next week. Ugaste told The Center Square that the bill language will prevent a stadium development’s equalized assessed value from leading to higher property taxes for residents.

(Springfield-jm) – Over his 7 and a half years in office, Governor J-B Pritzker has largely gotten his way in the Democratic-supermajority Illinois General Assembly. As he campaigns for a third term and weighs a possible 2028 Democratic presidential bid, Pritzker emerged from the spring legislative session once again achieving many but not all the goals he laid out in his State of the State Address in February. The governor was unable to muscle through the most far reaching elements of his top legislative initiative: Building Up Illinois Developments, a comprehensive plan to spur homebuilding and drive down housing costs. And he didn’t land the plane on a long-sought megaprojects bill that would have enabled the Chicago Bears to negotiate and lock in lower property tax payments on a stadium in Arlington Heights. Lawmakers also failed to approve a pause Pritzker sought in the state’s data center tax credit, leading the governor to take executive action to freeze the program. Lawmakers also rejected Pritzker’s proposal to reduce the percentage of income taxes local governments receive from the Local Government Distributive Fund.  

(Springfield–jc) It was in the early morning hours of June First when Illinois lawmakers passed the biggest budget in the history of Illinois, a budget of nearly 57 Billion dollars. That included over 800 million dollars more in new taxes to help balance the budget. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington says that democrats continue to raise taxes and fees and that is not in the best interest of Illinosians…

106th district State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker is expected to sign the budget before the new fiscal year starts on July First.

(Rantoul-jm) – It was hot cars on a hot day as the 2026 Hot Rod Power Tour rolled into Rantoul. An estimated 7,000 people were expected to attend. Cars from all over the nation participated. Today, the Hot Rod Power Tour moves on to St. Louis. 

(Springfield–jc)  Five days after the state Senate released its calendar for fall veto session, the Illinois House has matched the schedule.

Both chambers are scheduled to meet in Springfield on Nov. 17-19 and Dec. 1-3.

(Paxton–jc)  Approaching the middle of June means plans are underway in various local communities to celebrate the 4th of July. This is the 250th year celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In Paxton, the local chamber and Paxton Mainstreet are planning this year’s “Old Fashioned 4th of July” celebration, says Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Urbana–jc)--Two Champaign residents arrested for alleged involvement in a large fight this past Friday in Urbana appeared in court on Monday and Tuesday. . Police arrested 33-year-old Jessica Morris and 42-year-old Anthony Teat. Morris is due back in court today and Teat has a July 2 next appearance. 

(Washington–jc)  The Spring planting season is almost complete for this year. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at the final spring corn planting report…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad rippey

(Springfield–jc) Illinois State Fair admission vouchers are now available for visitors to the Illinois State Museum’s new Route 66 exhibit in Springfield this summer. In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Route 66, each exhibit visitor is eligible to receive a voucher for one adult weekday admission to the fair, which runs from Aug. 13 to 23. The promotion started on Monday and runs for 66 days.

(Springfield–jc) A new report says Illinois ranks 17th in home insurance rates nationwide, with premiums up 68% since 2020.

LendingTree's 2026 State of Home Insurance Report said Illinois homeowners pay $2,731 annually, 14% above the national average of $2,395.

The General Assembly recently passed House Bill 4273 to regulate property insurance.

WPXN News notes…

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 12th with Candy Foster and Shades of Blue performing downtown from 6-9pm .

The 2026 Mahomet Soda Fest will take place on Saturday, June 13th from 10-6.

The 100th annual Ford County Fair will take place June 13th-20th at the fairgrounds in Melvin. On the 13th its Clay Walker with Walker Montgomery at 7:30pm. On the 14th its the Jackpot Breeding Gilt Show. On the 15th, its the Queen Pageant at 7. On the 16th its Family night, children's tractor pull and talent show at 7. On the 17th and 18th its the Illiana truck and tractor pulls at 6:30. On the 19th its Journey Tribute Band Resurrection at 7:30. On the 20th its the Demolition Derby at 6:30pm.

The 2026 Fisher Blues, Brews and BBQ festival will take place on Saturday, June 20th from 11am-10pm.

The 27th annual Rankin Lions Club Truck and Tractor Pull will take place on Friday, June 26th at 6pm at Centennial Park.

The Onarga American Legion will hold a fish fry on Friday, June 26th from 4:30-7pm at the Legion Building at Durham Park.

The Gathering in Gilman will hold their Junk in the Trunk outdoor flea market on Saturday, June 27th from 9-2.

(Undated-jm) – Drivers across not just Central Illinois but across the nation are starting to see some relief at the gas pump as oil prices continue to fall and refineries start to increase output. GasBuddy reports a third consecutive week of falling gas prices. The average in Illinois is $4.41, down 21 cents in the last week and 62 cents below the $5.03 average the state saw three weeks ago. GasBuddy’s Patrick DeHaan says drivers may be enjoying the savings for now but cautions the risk of a significant reversal have not gone away.

(Rantoul–jm) – More than 6,000 classic cars and hot rods will be in Rantoul today as the Hot Rod Power Tour returns to the area. Rantoul is the second stop on the five day tour. The tour started yesterday in Joliet enroute to Tulsa, Oklahoma. The world’s largest traveling car show will be out at the former Chanute Air Force Base from 11-5. The event is free and open to the public.

(Watseka–dm)-106th District State Representative Republican Jason Bunting along with 53rd District State Senator Republican Chris Balkema and the Iroquois County Health  Department is hosting a Community Health Fair this Wednesday June 10th in Watseka.  State Representative Jason Bunting has the details

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting

(Gilman-jm) – Officials in Gilman are notifying residents that fire hydrants are being flushed this week. Residents may experience discolored water and a brief loss of pressure. Flushing will be completed by Friday.

(Champaign-jm) — The Champaign Police Department is investigating a shots fired incident that happened last month and now they are asking for help through CrimeStoppers in finding suspects. On May 24th, officers responded to a report of gunfire near Grove and Fifth Streets around 7:50pm. There they found evidence shots had been fired. The initial investigation indicated that there was a large gathering of people and subjects had exchanged gunfire. No one was reported to have been shot. Anyone with information is asked to call Champaign Police or CrimeStoppers.

(Melvin–dm)-The Ford County Fair opens up this Saturday June 13th with concerts featuring Clay Walker and Walker Montgomery.  Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins tells us if you buy your concert tickets early, you’ll save some money.

Ford County Fair Publicity Spokesperson Diane Perkins

(Paxton–dm)-The Paxton Buckley Loda School Board will hold their regular scheduled Meeting on Wednesday June 10th.  Items to be discussed include an update on summer maintenance projects, taking  action on 2026-2027 Student Handbooks, Faculty Handbook, the athletic Code of Conduct manual and the Extr-curricular Handbook.  Also up for discussion is seeking proposals for 2026-2027 Waste Services. Discussion on an agreement between the school board and Employment System #330 regarding Health Insurance and consideration on Gibson Area Hospital and Health Services Sports Medicine.The meeting is scheduled to start at 6pm at the PBL Junior High Commons area 

(Champaign–dm)-The Champaign Police Dept invites you to join them for coffee and conversation this Wednesday at Royal Donut in Champaign.  Champaign Police Dept.Public Information Officer Joe Lamberson has the details

Champaign Police Dept. Public Information Officer Joe Lamberson

(Will County–jc)   The Illinois Department of Corrections has announced plans to relocate Logan Correctional Center to Stateville in Will County, where I-DOC is planning to build two new facilities. State officials said they are seeking a progressive design build entity for the new Stateville project, which in 2024 had an estimated cost as high as 900 million dollars.

(Springfield-jm) — Illinois lawmakers gave hospitals and community health centers much of what they wanted this session by passing a bill that prohibits drug manufacturers from interfering with their access to discounted medications through a federal drug pricing program. But they also gave drug companies what they wanted by passing another piece of legislation that calls on the Illinois Department of Insurance to conduct an audit to find out how much money these hospitals and clinics are making off that program, and what they are doing with the profits. Both bills focus on the federal 340B drug pricing program. According to analysis by KFF, a nonprofit health policy research, polling and news organization, the 340B program has mushroomed in size in recent years, growing from $2.4 billion to $66.3 billion. That growth has resulted in heightened tensions between hospitals and clinics on one side and the pharmaceutical industry on the other, with each accusing the other of abusing or manipulating the program. The battle in Illinois over the 340B program began last year with legislation that passed in the Senate that prohibited drug companies from interfering with the hospitals and clinics ability to dispense the drugs through contract pharmacies. But amid strong opposition in the House it was not called for a vote. It took an inclusion bill creating greater transparency to bring the bill over the finish line this session.

(USDA–dm)-Children going to summer camp for the first time may be anxious to be away from their parents, but there are methods to help them adapt.Rod Bain has the story.

(Champaign-jm) – A new Veterans Affairs clinic has opened its doors in Champaign. The clinic is located at 1702 South Mattis Avenue. The new clinic will offer primary care and specialty services. 

(Iroquois County-jm) – Iroquois County Clerk Breein Suver has announced she is looking for Republican and Democratic Election Judges to be commissioned for a 2 year term. Judges would work in their polling place on Election Day and are responsible for opening and closing the polling place, ensuring all votes are cast in secret, offering assistance and maintaining order in the polling place. Election judges who attend training are paid $185 per day, plus an additional $15 for attending training. Those interested are asked to call the county clerk's office at 815-432-6960.

(The Center Square) – A Republican state representative announced he will be releasing his own framework that will take a crack at solving the ongoing issues that might be pushing the Chicago Bears in Indiana’s direction.

State Representative. Dan Ugaste, Republican from  St. Charles announced  he will be introducing his own legislation this morning at 10 to keep the team in the state. The news comes just a week after lawmakers failed to send a bill to the governor’s desk on the matter. The measure would also provide property tax relief for residents and businesses statewide.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Park district pool is open for the season, but baseball and softball numbers are huge again this year. The Paxton Park district has over 2 hundred kids involved in the various levels of local competition says Paxton Park District Interim President Craig Kief…

Paxton Park District Interim President Craig Kief

(Champaign County–jc)  Interstate 72 west of Champaign is open again this morning after a semi crash last night around 7 near Monticello. State police say a semi lost control in a construction zone causing traffic issues. No word on any injuries or property damage was given. The road was re opened around 9 last night.

(The Center Square) – An Illinois state senator says wages for direct support professionals who provide services for people with developmental disabilities and serious mental illnesses lag behind where they were when Gov. J.B. Pritzker took office. Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, asked Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Elgie Sims, D-Chicago, if anything was added to the governor’s budget proposal for workers who provide disability services. Before the General Assembly passed a record-high $55.9 billion budget on June 1 for fiscal year 2027, Rose said another $24 million would return DSP workers to 150% of minimum wage, where they were in 2019. 

WPXN News notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, June 12th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 12th with Candy Foster and Shades of Blue performing downtown from 6-9pm .

The 2026 Mahomet Soda Fest will take place on Saturday, June 13th from 10-6.

Ford County ROSC and the Ford/Iroquois Farm Bureau  will host a free rural mental health training on Tuesday, June 16th from 4-6 pm at the Kruse Center in Gibson City.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Gibson Area Hospital on Thursday, June 18th from 11:30-5:30.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 19th with New Souls performing in downtown from 6-9pm.

The Buckley Fire Department will hold a pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturday, June 20th from 6-10 am at the Buckley Fire Station.

(Paxton-jm) – A bus carrying PBL students and parents on its way back from Washington D.C. was involved in a crash Saturday morning. Five students and one parent were taken to the hospital for evaluation as precautionary measure. All were treated and released.  On Facebook, PBL Junior High School Principal Josh Didier put out an announcement that the bus being used for their 8th grade trip, with Grand Classroom and Peoria Charter, was involved in an accident in Myersville, Maryland. The group made it home safely early Sunday morning.

(Champaign-jm) – A 16-year-old died from injuries sustained in an early Saturday morning shooting in Champaign. Police say it was a  homicide. In a release, the Champaign Police Department said officers were dispatched just after midnight on Saturday morning  the 2000 block of Cynthia Drive for a report of a shooting with injuries. On scene, officers located Trai’Vvone Wesley with life-threatening injuries from a gunshot wound. Wesley was then transported to an area hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Police said the circumstances around this shooting remain under investigation. Regarding this incident, 9-1-1 callers reported hearing shots, and investigating officers located evidence indicating multiple rounds were fired.

(Washington-jm) – Livestock are not the only animals of concern about the threat of New World Screwworm in South Texas, according to the Agriculture Secretary. Rod Bain reports…

(Vermilion County-jm) – The Vermilion County Health Department is warning people of the Lone Star Tick as it becomes increasingly common in many parts of Illinois. The health department explained on Facebook that these ticks are present in Vermilion County and have been associated with Ehrlichiosis, Tularemia and Alpha-gal syndrome, a red meat allergy linked to tick bite. They are “aggressive biters” that actively seek out hosts. Lone Star Ticks are distinguishable by a white dot on the backs of females, while males have scattered white markings around the edges of their backs.

(Melvin-jm) – Three ladies will be vying for the title of Miss Ford County Queen 2026.  Raven Armstrong, Kyra Kietzman, and Londyn Roderick seek the crown.  The pageant is in the Dance Building at the Melvin Fairgrounds on June 15th.

(Paxton–jc)  The city of Paxton officials have been successful netting grants and appropriations for city projects recently. They include money for the second block of the downtown streetscape project and money for the Clayton Hale bridge upgrades. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says city officials and grant writers have done the city a great service…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Undated-jm) – A major state prison project is moving forward without Logan County in its plans. Illinois officials said on Friday that two new correctional facilities will be constructed in Crest Hill to replace aging prisons, including Logan Correctional Center. Crest Hill is a city located in Will County and is just over two hours from Lincoln.  A state analysis found Crest Hill would offer more space, infrastructure and lower costs. The new facilities are expected to house up to 2,300 people. Logan Correctional will remain open during construction, and there is no tentative opening date for the Crest Hill facility.

(Illinois–dm)-Gov. J.B. Pritzker has ordered the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to pause data center tax credits, starting July 1. Pritzker’s move follows The Center Square’s report last week, detailing the state legislature’s decision to not advance data center regulation during the spring session that ended on June First. A statement from the governor’s office said existing incentive agreements under the data center investment program will be honored.

(Springfield-jm) – A plan heading to Governor JB Pritzker's desk could protect consumers and ensure a fairer, more transparent ticket resale market. The bill bans ticket resellers from selling, listing, or advertising tickets unless they have actual possession of the tickets at the time they're offered. Sponsors said selling tickets you don't own is a gamble with someone else's money.

(Washington-jm) – This year's U.S. winter wheat crop will again be a focus for key June reports from the Agriculture Department. Rod Bain reports…

The USDA’s June Crop Production and World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates are scheduled for release Thursday, June 11 at 11 am Central time.

(Urbana-jm) – A fighting involving 50-60 people in Urbana Friday night led to shots being fired into the air, and two people were ultimately arrested. In a release, the Urbana Police Department say around 10 on Friday night, officers responded to the 2000 block of South Philo Road for the report of a large fight involving approximately 50-60 people and reports of gunfire.The investigation then determined that the incident began as an argument between adults and escalated into multiple physical altercations. During the incident, a firearm was shot into the air several times.  No people or property were struck by gunfire, and officers ended up arresting two individuals on the following charges: 42-year-old Anthony Teat of Urbana was arrested for aggravated discharge of a firearm and aggravated domestic battery and 33-year-old Jessica Morris of Urbana was arrested for aggravated battery to a peace officer, aggravated battery in a public place and resisting/obstructing a peace officer. In all, more than 30 law enforcement officers from surrounding agencies responded to assist during the incident.

(Paxton–dm)-If you’re going to be using a chainsaw, Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen has some important safety tips to follow.

Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen.  You can hear more from Scott on Saturday mornings at 730 on Scott’s Tips for Success.

(Rantoul–dm)-The Rantoul Township High School District 193 will hold their monthly meeting this evening. Items up for  discussion include approval of the Fiscal Year 26 amended budget. Also renewal of property and casualty and workers compensation insurance. Other items to be discussed is the approval of Administrator contracts, Non-Certified contracts, and approval of Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Rantoul Township High School Education Association. A budget Hearing is scheduled for 5:45pm with the  regularly scheduled meeting to start a 6pm

(Springfield-jm) — Changes could be coming to Illinois high schoolers’ foreign language requirements if a unanimously passed bill is signed into law. Right now, students are required to take two years of a foreign language. Senate Bill 3070 would give schools and students the flexibility to choose to take two years of a language, or take two years of “career and technical education” courses. If signed into law, the bill would first take effect for incoming high school freshmen in the 2028 to 2029 school year.

(Melvin–jc)  The 2026 Ford County Fair starts on Saturday at the fairgrounds in Melvin. A county fair brings lots of food options. WPXN ‘s Joel Cluver has the details…

WPXN News Notes…

The 2026 Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour will stop in Rantoul on Tuesday, June 9th at 11 am.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the Onarga American Legion on Tuesday, June 9th from 1-6 pm.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Business After Hours on Thursday, June 11th from 5:30-7:30 pm at Promise Healthcare in Rantoul.

The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual golf outing on Friday, June 12th at Lakeview Country Club in Loda.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, June 12th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 12th with Candy Foster and Shades of Blue performing downtown from 6-9pm .

The 2026 Mahomet Soda Fest will take place on Saturday, June 13th from 10-6.

(Springfield-jm) - The Illinois Supreme Court announced on Thursday that essential data and information from the judicial branch will be released annually in an effort to improve transparency. Some of the data that will be included is activity of all criminal, family and juvenile cases, orders of protection issued or granted, total cases under probation supervision, number of people sentenced on electronic monitoring or home confinement and number of petitions revoked. 

(Springfield–jc)--The state of Illinois has a nearly 57 Billion dollar budget passed by the Democrat majority in Springfield. One  republican conservative, says taxes for all Illinoisans will be going up by over 800 Million more dollars, when it is signed by the Governor. Reaction from 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

(Urbana-jm) – Champaign County’s Chief Deputy Circuit Clerk is facing federal wire fraud charges following an indictment by a grand jury this week. Titianna Ammons was inducted on three counts for allegedly defrauding the U-S Department of Labor and Illinois Department of Employment Security. Ammons is the daughter of Champaign County Clerk Aaron Ammons and State Representative Carol Ammons. She faces up to 30 years in prison per count because the alleged fraud involves federally declared disaster relief.

(Champaign–dm)-While the recently planted crops need the rain, the hay farmers are liking the dry weather.  Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady gives us an update on the hay baling in the area.

Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady

(Melvin-jm) – Contestants for the 2026 Ford County Fair have until the end of the business day today to submit entry forms. Fair officials extended the deadline to today. Divisional winners advance to state competition in Springfield in January. The talent show at the Ford County Fair is Monday, June 15th in the Dance Building.

(Urbana–jc)  A Freedom of Information Act lawsuit filed with the city of Urbana,  claims the city withheld records related to a January 2025 drunk driving crash that killed two women and injured three other people. Judicial Watch filed suit in Champaign County circuit court on Thursday. Julio Cucul-Bol, a Guatemalan national who was unlawfully present in the United States, was sentenced to 30 years in prison for the crash that killed Chloe Polzin, 21, and Katie Abraham, 20.

(Area–jc)  Some area Fire Departments  and E-M-T Groups received some grant money from the state. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Kankakee–dm)-The tradition of celebrating Independence Day with live music followed by fireworks will continue Saturday, July 4 along the south banks of the Kankakee River. The event will include three live music performances. Kankakee Community College gates open at 4:30 p.m., and admission is $20 per carload – cash only. All proceeds benefit the Kankakee Valley Symphony Orchestra. Food concessions will be available beginning at 5:00 p.m. Vendors will be Jimmy Jo’s BBQ, Martinez Tacos, Lauren’s Hot Apple Dumplings, Brewhead Espresso, and Kankakee Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra Concessions.

(Rantoul–dm)-The Rantoul Historical Society and Museum is located at 1040 East Pine Street in Rantoul. which is across the street from the Dairy Queen. Rantoul/Paxton VFW Adjutant Jim Cheek has more information.

Rantoul/Paxton VFW Adjutant Jim Cheek.  The museum is open Tuesday, Friday and Saturday 10-3 and Sundays from Noon -3pm

(The Center Square) – The speaker of the Illinois House says he thinks state lawmakers will eventually pass data center regulations, but questions remain over why legislation stalled this spring. The Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition said the state’s House and Senate leadership is woefully out of touch for continuing data center tax breaks and failing to advance basic protections. Senate Bill 4016 and House Bill 5513 include provisions to prohibit cost shifting, ensure data centers power their own operations, and provide clean energy incentives. The POWER Act also would prevent data centers from signing nondisclosure agreements with local governments. Gov. J.B. Pritzker said he proposed pausing the tax credits.

(Springfield-jm) – New legislation heading to Governor Pritzker’s desk establishes the state’s first framework to regulate electric transportation devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters. The Ride Safe, Ride Smart, Ride Ready campaign from the Secretary of State’s office is the first of its kind statewide effort to address the rapid rise of electric mobility devices through education, training enforcement and modernized safety standards. Illinois currently has no laws that govern e-bikes. Under the framework, people riding e–bikes and e-motos capable of traveling over 28 mph would be required to have a drivers license, title, registration and insurance. E-scooters, electric skateboards and electric unicycles would also be prohibited from driving over 28 mph on roads, bike lanes, on bike paths and on sidewalks.

(USDA–dm)-There’s not been much rain lately,USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey provides a list of states with significant topsoil moisture shortage as of May 31.

(Champaign County-jm) - The Champaign Urbana Public Health District’s mosquito surveillance and abatement program is back. Members will travel around the community, catching mosquitos to test for west nile virus.

(Paxton–jc)  The Friday Night Free concert in downtown Paxton is tomorrow night. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says the Band Back in Time is back again on Friday…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper. The concessions stand opens at 6 with the band at 7pm at Veterans Square.

(Undated-jm) – Drought conditions are making a return to Central Illinois. The latest drought monitor issued Thursday shows moderate drought across far northern Ford County, far northwestern Iroquois County and the western half of Kankakee County. Abnormally dry conditions cover the rest of Ford, Iroquois, Kankakee, Champaign and most of Vermilion Counties. The good news is there is some rain in the forecast for tonight through this weekend and into early next week however temperatures are also supposed to rise to near 90 this weekend and low to mid 90s next week.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Park District pool is open for the season. Paxton Park district Interim President Craig Kief says  those needing pool passes and information about the Paxton Pirates Swim team can find more information on line…

Paxton Park District Interim President Craig Kief

(Springfield–dm)-Illinois U.S. Reps Bill Foster and Delia Ramirez have introduced legislation that would require the U.S. attorney general to deploy legal orientation programs in detention centers and jails that house immigrants. A statement from Foster’s office said the Know Your Rights Act would address due process violations that occur in immigration detention facilities. The proposal requires the orientation and legal notice of rights to be available in English and the five most common languages of detainees held at each facility.

(Illinois–jc)  Two Quincy men are facing charges after a narcotics investigation by Illinois State Police. Special agents arrested Jaret Shear, 25, and Israel Gordon, 21, after executing four search warrants at two homes and a business.

State police say agents found more than 20 pounds of black-market cannabis, more than 80 grams of cocaine, more than 200 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, firearms ammunition and a large amount of U.S. currency.

(Roberts–jc)  The 20-26 Roberts Fun Day is tomorrow in the Ford County town. Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Jessa Loveall provides a run down of events…

Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Jessa Loveall

WPXN will be broadcasting live in roberts at 10am on Saturday

WPXN News notes..

Paxton townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 5th and Saturday, June 6th.

The village of Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series tonight with Aces N’ Rhythms in downtown Rantoul.

Paxton Main Street will hold their First Friday concert tonight with Back in Time performing at Veterans Square from 7-9 pm. The concession stand opens at 6.

Logan Kirby will perform at the Melvin Community Hall on Saturday, June 6th at 7pm. Cost is $10. 

Champaign Firefighters Local 1260 will hold a 5k on Sunday, June 7th from 8-10:30 at Carle at the Fields.

The 2026 Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour will stop in Rantoul on Tuesday, June 9th at 11 am.

(The Center Square) – The Illinois State Police and the Illinois Department of Transportation broke ground on a joint venture to build a new training facility Wednesday, focused on traffic incident safety for officers, first responders and highway workers. The $14 million taxpayer-funded project is being constructed at ISP’s Pawnee-based extension of the agency’s training academy.

According to ISP Director Brendan Kelly, the new training facility will allow for law enforcement and first responders to train in a controlled environment that closely resembles real-world conditions.

(Undated–jc)  –Gasoline prices have slipped steadily in Illinois and across the country over the last week to 10 days. Triple A says the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded in Illinois is 4 dollars 70 cents per gallon, down from around 5 dollars per gallon one week ago. Closer to home, the average price for a gallon of gas in Paxton is 4 dollars 70 cents, in Champaign the average price is 4 dollars 41 cents per gallon and 4 dollars 65 cents in Rantoul. 

(The Center Square) – Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza is running for mayor of Chicago. Mendoza said in a campaign video released on Wednesday morning that families are being squeezed by rising rents, higher fees and property taxes.

Before becoming comptroller in 2016, Mendoza, D-Chicago, served in the Illinois House from 2001 to 2011 and was Chicago city clerk from 2011 to 2016.

(Springfield–jc)  Budget numbers have set in since the Democrat Super-Majority in Springfield passed a nearly 57 Billion Dollar budget early Monday morning. The votes on the increases went along party lines. Reaction from 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, who asks the question of “when is it enough”...

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet

(Fisher-jm) – The Village of Fisher is looking to the community for help to figure out how to make routes to school safer. The Illinois Department of Transportation has asked the village to  complete a survey as part of the Safe Roads for School Illinois Program. Those familiar with the village know that U S Route 136 goes right by the Junior and Senior High Schools on the village's west side. The busy state highway makes travel in the village to and from school more hazardous. Fisher village leaders say the information gained from the local survey will help decisions from the village board later this year.

(Chicago–jc))  The Illinois Supreme Court has announced the creation of a pretrial accountability task force aimed at addressing the growing number of defendants on electronic monitoring and improving the arrest warrant process.

The court said in a statement there are more than 5,500 pretrial defendants being monitored electronically across Illinois.

(Missouri–jc)  – A  Florissant, Missouri teen is charged with first-degree murder after a shooting claimed the life of a Madison, Illinois man last week.

Venice police found Travion Sherrod, 38, dead with gunshot wounds in a vehicle on May 26. Police say Jason A. McCallum, 18, was arrested at St. Louis Lambert International Airport on May 30.

(Vermilion County-jm) – Balloons Over Vermilion is marking its 10th anniversary by moving up a month in summer and to a new site at Kennekuk County Park, and organizers couldn’t be more excited for all the new and returning activities for 2026. This year’s version of the annual festival is set for Friday and Saturday, with a theme of “10 Years Above and Beyond.”

(Paxton–jc)  City of Paxton leaders have agreed to a redevelopment project with a business in the downtown area of the city. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says some TIF money will help…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Gibson City–-jc)  The Gibson City Restoration Project had their weekly queen of hearts fundraiser last night. The first drawing was won by  Betsy Hammitt. The next drawing was huge. Claudia Chase  chose card 21 and that card revealed the Queen of Hearts” and Chase won the 8 thousand dollar jackpot. The money raised helps with the restoration project of a building in downtown Gibson City..

(Roberts–jc)  –The annual Roberts Fun Day is set for Saturday in the Ford County town. A breakfast starts the day from 8am to 11am. There is bingo, a vendor show, bounce houses, silent auction, bags tournament and more. Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Jessa Loveall says they have a cool band Saturday night in Hunter Lucas and the Backroad Remedies…

Roberts Fun Day Spokesperson Jessa Loveall

The band plays from 7pm to 10pm on Saturday in Roberts. 

(The Center Square) – A proposal that would allow many Uber and Lyft drivers to form a sector-wide union and engage in collective bargaining passed the Illinois’ legislature last weekend. Illinois is one of only three states to pass a law that allows such contract workers in on labor organizing. State Sen. Ram Villivalam, D-Chicago, brought the legislation in the Senate after many of his constituents who work as drivers shared issues of unwarranted deactivation, poor pay and difficult or dangerous working conditions.

(Washington–jc)  What's the latest with the progression of the winter wheat crop. 

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey has the outlook

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Paxton-jm) – Two people were arrested over the weekend after an investigation by Paxton Police showed they provided liquor and cannabis to children and allowed them to use it in their home. Upon investigation, Paxton Police looked into reports of 22-year-old Mickel J. Grice and 21-year-old Justin D. Akers Jr. providing underage youth  with cannabis and liquor. Grice and Akers junior were arrested over the weekend. The pair were charged with the delinquency of a minor and child endangerment. Grice was additionally charged with delivery of cannabis. Their next court appearance in Ford County Court is  July 28 

(Champaign County-jm) – Champaign County Sheriff Dustin Heuerman has been appointed to two statewide boards by Governor Pritzker. Heurman was appointed to the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board and the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority. The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority appointment requires confirmation by the Illinois Senate. Both appointments are effective immediately.

(Rantoul–jc)  Plans for infrastructure improvement continue for the village of Rantoul. Village leaders obtained a competitive grant of 36 Million dollars for airport, road and other improvements, says Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Paxton–jc)  – The Ford County Finance Committee will hear a presentation on the annual audit when they meet on Friday morning in Paxton. Audit results will also be provided. The meeting comes to order at 10 on Friday morning at the Ford County Courthouse in Paxton  

(Springfield–jc)  –Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs has presented Pope Leo XIV with an I-Cash claim for $8.65, proceeds from an abandoned PayPal account the Chicago-born pope left in his home state.

Frerichs said in a social media post that he visited the Vatican on Wednesday. Gov. J.B. Pritzker met with Pope Leo during a visit to Rome last November. Mayor Brandon Johnson led a Chicago delegation to the Vatican last week.

(Melvin–jc)  The 20-26 Ford County Fair is coming in just over one week. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the event schedule to start the fair…

(Buckley–jc)  The village of Buckley is set to honor America with a 4th of July parade. The event will step off at 10am on Saturday July 4th in the downtown area of the village. The local group invites the public to attend and also invites groups and organizations and families to participate in the annual parade. For more information, check out their facebook page. 

WPXN News notes…

The Gibson Area Chamber of Commerce annual fish fry will take place on Thursday, June 4th from 5-7 pm at the North Park Pavilion in Gibson City. Cost is $5.

Paxton townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 5th and Saturday, June 6th.

The village of Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 5th with Aces N’ Rhythms in downtown Rantoul.

Paxton Main Street will hold their First Friday concert on Friday, June 5th Back in Time performing at Veterans Square from 7-9 pm.

The 2026 Roberts Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 6th. Activities include breakfast from 8-11, vendors from 8-3, bounce houses and silent auction 9-3, kids cart rides 11-1, bingo 11-2, food trucks 11-3, bags tournament at 4 and live music from 7-10.

Logan Kirby will perform at the Melvin Community Hall on Saturday, June 6th at 7pm. Cost is $10. 

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois lawmakers approved a measure that would allow rideshare drivers to unionize and negotiate with companies like Uber and Lyft. Under the proposal, drivers will be able to form and join organizations to represent them in negotiations over pay and working conditions. The bill also requires companies to pay a fee on each trip originating in Illinois.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois could soon reform the state’s regulations on delinquent property tax sales after the General Assembly approved a bill that lets homeowners keep their equity. The key change is if a homeowner fails to pay their debt in an initial redemption period, and their property is seized and sold, they will receive any surplus funds left over from the auction. Illinois is the last state to come into compliance with a 2023 Supreme Court ruling that determined the sale process violated citizens’ rights to fair compensation for government seizure of property and ruled any surplus funds from the property sale must be returned to the owner.

(Springfield–jc)  One area state leader wants the state to abolish the Illinois Estate Tax or “death” tax that has big implications on farmers and their families. Dean Abbott reports…

(Rantoul-jm) – The Rantoul bus driver accused of sexually assaulting a minor has been denied pretrial release. Johnnie McClendon Junior made an appearance in Champaign County court for arraignment and detention. He was charged with a single count of predatory criminal sexual assault against a minor. If convicted he would receive a mandatory prison sentence. The judge denied pretrial release.. He’s due back in court on June 25th.

(Springfield–jc)  –The Citizens Utility Board says it has identified at least $54 million worth of overcharges in Illinois American Water's proposed $142.4 million rate increase.  When requesting approval of the hike from the Illinois Commerce Commission earlier this year, the water utility estimated that the typical residential customer would pay about $14 more per month and typical wastewater customers would pay an extra $28 per month.

(Rantoul–jc)  Just before 11 Tuesday morning, Rantoul Police Officers were dispatched to the 600 block of Saint. Andrews Circle drive in the village, for a caller stating he had been shot. METCAD dispatch also advised they received additional calls of people shooting as well as Raven Gunshot Detection alerts in the vicinity. Officers arrived on scene and located one male victim who had sustained a gunshot wound. Officers immediately began administering first aid until they were relieved by paramedics. The victim was subsequently transported to Carle Hospital with what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries.  Rantoul police did pursue an arrest warrant to a home in the village on Tuesday.  Rantoul police are continuing to investigate this incident. If you have any information on this crime, please contact the Rantoul Police Department 217 892-2103, or CrimeStoppers 217 373-TIPS.

(Paxton–jc) Regulating E-Bikes and scooters continues to be a subject for city of Paxton leaders. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the council has ideas on how to proceed, but the city is waiting on some state decisions concerning e-bikes…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold.. WPXN News will have more on the subject on our Wednesday and Thursday 

(Cullom–jc)  Tri Point school leaders will be looking at building upgrades and options when their school board meets as a committee on Thursday.  At the meeting, school leaders and the board will look at expectations for school buildings including the Kempton building. That committee meeting comes to order at 5, Thursday afternoon at the Tri-Point Board room in Kempton

(Gibson City–jc)  One Ford County town is set to celebrate the nation’s 250 anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Gibson City will celebrate on Saturday July 11th says Gibson City event Spokesperson Susie Tongate…

Gibson City Event Spokesperson Susie Tongate. The day will feature a patriotic parade, a ribbon cutting for the Social Lott District,  games for kids and adults, live music and lots of food options. 

(The Center Square) – Included in the recently passed state budget, the Illinois State Board of Education will get money for property tax relief. Statehouse Republicans called for the relief program to be funded after the funds were not included in the budget for the current year. In the final hours of talks regarding Illinois’ record $55.9 billion spending plan for the 2027 fiscal year, lawmakers noted that the budget included $45 million for ISBE’s Property Tax Relief Grant program. As a Senate Democrat Leader on Appropriations, Sen. Elgie Sims Jr., D-Chicago, said the $45 million allocation for the coming year is because the state was able to complete a study on the effectiveness of the program.

(Washington–jc) The corn crop continues to emerge locally around the state and Nation. U-S-D-A meteorologist Brad Rippey takes a look at the  U.S. corn crop…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Springfield-jm) – Bills expanding privacy for abortion medical records and access to birth control services passed in the final days of the General Assembly’s spring session. The first measure would create the Reproductive Health Privacy Act and would require the separation of information about abortion services or diagnosis of gender dysphoria from a patient’s digital medical record if a patient chooses. Access to those records would be restricted for out of state entities. Lawmakers also passed a bill that expands access to birth control for minors, allowing them to consent to birth control without additional consent from a parent or guardian. 

(Northern Illinois–jc)  The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois has issued a report he said confirms what he already stated publicly in response to intense press interest and inquiries. Andrew Boutros said in a statement that he has never appeared before any grand jury hearing or deliberating evidence on any matter since becoming U.S. Attorney in April 2025.  Last month, Boutros said the dismissal of charges against anti-immigration law enforcement protesters in Broadview came after “certain conduct” by the government in the grand jury.

(Springfield-jm) — A bill heading to Governor J-B Pritzkers desk could improve access to suicide prevention services. Sponsors say 988 information should be visible in county shelter care homes, daycares, public libraries, hospitals and nursing homes. 

(Springfield–jc)  After voting no on next year’s budget early Monday morning, 104th District  State Representative Brandun Schweizer, Republican from Danville, says while Democrats continue their tax more  and spend more cycle,  the democrats did not help  in providing affordability for working Illinois families…

104th District State Representative Brandun Schweizer, Republican from Danville

Schweizer added that since taking office, Illinois Democrat Governor J-B Pritzker has increased state spending by 40 percent and enacted 57 tax and fee increases

(Urbana-jm) – A man is facing charges after being accused of raping a woman in Urbana. Johnathan Fuller Junior was charged with four counts of criminal sexual assault. Fuller allegedly pushed the victim in her own apartment on May 29th and sexually assaulted her.. He was denied pretrial release.

(Iroquois County-jm) – Three bridges crossing I-57 in Iroquois County will be partially or fully closed to traffic starting today as part of a larger construction project on the highway. The bridges affected include East 200 North Road near Loda, East 400 North Road near the northbound Main Line Rest Area and East 700 North Road south of Buckley. The 200 North Road bridge will have one lane of traffic maintained while the other two will be fully closed. Work on the bridges are expected to be completed by August.

(Paxton–jc)  –  The second in the series of First Friday night concerts is set for this Friday night in downtown Paxton. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says a Chicago based band called…”Back in Time” is coming back to Veteran’s Square…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper. The concessions stand opens at 6pm with the free concert at 7pm in downtown Paxton 

(Savoy–jc)  The Advocates for Aging Care in Champaign County is encouraging the public to attend a public hearing next Tuesday in Savoy. The local group has applied for a license for 120 skilled nursing beds to be placed in the county. Currently, Champaign County is short more than 300 skilled nursing beds. The hearing takes place at 1pm, Tuesday June 9th in the Village of Savoy Municipal Board room

(Rantoul–jc)  Community Development Block grant funds will help some projects in the village of Rantoul including some houses and streets. Village Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says the earned grant dollars continue to help in upgrades…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(The Center Square) – Illinois is still waiting to benefit from a law promised to generate hundreds of millions of dollars by restricting credit and debit card swipe fees. U.S. District Court Judge Virginia Kendall ruled that a federal order issued in April effectively blocks the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act that was signed into law in 2024. Hours before the ruling, state lawmakers voted to delay implementation of the fee until July First  20-27. Rob Karr, president and CEO of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, said IRMA proposed the law that would generate $200 million annually and help the state address a budget shortfall.

(Washington–jc) The soybean crop continues to emerge locally around the state and Nation. U-S-D-A meteorologist Brad Rippey takes a look at soybeans…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Chaampaign–jc)  – The Champaign Fire Department responded to a fire in a single-family home in the 400 block of South Russell Street just before midnight last night Fire crews were able to quickly extinguish the fire. No one was hurt in the fire.

WPXN News notes…

The Gibson Area Chamber of Commerce annual fish fry will take place on Thursday, June 4th from 5-7 pm at the North Park Pavilion in Gibson City. Cost is $5.

Paxton townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 5th and Saturday, June 6th.

The village of Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 5th with Aces N’ Rhythms in downtown Rantoul.

The 2026 Roberts Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 6th. Activities include breakfast from 8-11, vendors from 8-3, bounce houses and silent auction 9-3, kids cart rides 11-1, bingo 11-2, food trucks 11-3, bags tournament at 4 and live music from 7-10.

Logan Kirby will perform at the Melvin Community Hall on Saturday, June 6th at 7pm. Cost is $10. 

Champaign Firefighters Local 1260 will hold a 5k on Sunday, June 7th from 8-10:30 at Carle at the Fields.

(Rantoul-jm) – One person has died after suffering a medical emergency at the Hap Parker Family Aquatic Center in Rantoul yesterday.  Emergency personnel  were called to the pool at 4pm on Monday. They arrived in around 3 minutes at the facility, where life guards were already performing C-P-R.  The individual was transported to the hospital, where they later died. The name of the individual has not yet been officially released by the Champaign County coroner's office. WPXN news will update this story as more information becomes available

(Springfield–jc)-- Illinois House Democrats finalized passing legislation to allow undocumented immigrants to pay in-state tuition at public universities.  88th District  State Representative Regan Deering, Republican from Decatur ,voted against the measure…

88th District State Representative Regan Deering Republican from Decatur. Those voting no said the state is giving benefits to those illegally here in the state. The governor is expected to sign the measure into law. 

(Springfield-jm) – The Chicago Bears are sticking with their current timeline for selecting a site for a new stadium amid an uncertain future for a proposal in the Illinois state legislature that would provide incentives for the NFL team to build its new home in the state. The Illinois Senate passed a bill early Monday morning that would have cleared the way for Arlington Heights and Chicago to create local stadium authorities, creating a pathway for the Bears to avoid paying property taxes on a new stadium in Illinois. But the House adjourned without taking up the measure on the last day of the state's spring legislative session. The Bears said they are finalizing their evaluation of possible stadium sites in Arlington Heights and Hammond, Indiana, and they “remain on the late spring/early summer timeline.”

(Melvin–jc) As the United States looks to celebrate the 250th anniversary with the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Ford County is celebrating 100 years of the local county fair this month. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is now involved in a Champaign shooting investigation in the hopes of finding new information to pass along to police. The shooting happened the morning of May 6 on Redwood Drive near Bradley Avenue. Officers responded to a report of a shooting with injuries, and they found a 27-year-old man with gunshot wounds. Crime Stoppers said the victim is still recovering from his injuries. Investigators are still trying to identify the potential suspect involved in this confrontation. He was described as a Black male with a thin build who was wearing a mask and all-black clothing.

(Champaign–dm)-The planting season in Champaign County is running above average, while statewide planting progress is at average to above average.  Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady has the update. 

Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady

(Watseka–jc)  – The Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency announced today  that it has completed all requirements necessary to utilize the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System in the county. The county is now equipped to communicate critical emergency situations to all citizens in Iroquois County. The addition of the new warning system,  provides Iroquois County emergency personnel the ability to rapidly disseminate life-saving information during severe weather, and other emergencies.

(Ford County–dm)-The Ford County Highway Committee will meet on Wednesday June 3rd at the Highway Department in Roberts.  Items up for discussion include an update on County  Department work, and discussion on a county transportation agreement.  Also other items up on the agenda include petitions for aid and a resolution for Patton Drainage Project. The meeting is scheduled to start at 7AM.

(Springfield—jc)  Less than 24 hours after receiving the state budget document of over 3 thousand 600 pages, Democrat state lawmakers passed a nearly 57 Billion dollar state budget that includes over 800 million dollars in new taxes. Reaction to the budget from Illinois Republican Tony McCombie from Savannah…

89th District and Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie Republican from Savannah

(Springfield-jm) – Families across Illinois can access free meals and snacks this summer for children 18 and younger through federal nutrition programs administered by the Illinois State Board of Education. More than 1,000 meal sites across 72 counties are currently participating, with additional locations still being added throughout the summer. State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders said the program helps ensure children continue receiving healthy meals while school is out. Families can find nearby meal locations by using the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder online, texting “Summer” to 914-342-7744, or calling the USDA National Hunger Hotline at 1-866-3-HUNGRY.

(Champaign–jc)  –  Several special America 250 events are set in Champaign County starting later this month. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Nearly 69 million people in the United States speak a language other than English at home, yet weather warnings have long been issued almost exclusively in English. A new study documents how the National Weather Service is using artificial intelligence to change that, developing a comprehensive translation program that delivers life-saving forecasts and alerts in Spanish  and, Chinese, to French and other languages. The new multidisciplinary study was led by University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign  meteorology  professor Joseph Trujillo-Falcón and National Weather Service scientist Monica Bozeman.The study was published in the journal Artificial Intelligence for the Earth Systems.

(Springfield–jc)  More reaction coming in from local lawmakers about the nearly 57 Billion Dollar State of Illinois Budget for the coming fiscal year. 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet says Illinois taxpayers pay one thousand 700 more in taxes than those in neighboring states…

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, republican from Mahomet

(Paxton–jc)  Yes chickens or No Chickens, that is the question before a city of Paxton committee tonight. The city of Paxton License, Permit, Zoning and Insurance committee will look at the future of chickens on local properties when they meet at 6-30 tonight on the second floor of city hall 

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs thanked members of the General Assembly  for passing Senate Bill 29-68  in advancing legislation that expands investment opportunities for non-profit organizations across Illinois.

The legislation creates the Non-Profit Investment Pool, a safe and efficient investment option allowing eligible nonprofits to make the most of available funds while reducing administrative burdens. The measure is intended to help nonprofits strengthen their financial stability and maximize resources that support communities throughout the state.

WPXN News notes…

The 2026 Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour will stop in Rantoul on Tuesday, June 9th at 11 am.

The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the Onarga American Legion on Tuesday, June 9th from 1-6 pm.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Business After Hours on Thursday, June 11th from 5:30-7:30 pm at Promise Healthcare in Rantoul.

The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual golf outing on Friday, June 12th at Lakeview Country Club in Loda.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, June 12th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10.

Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 12th with Candy Foster and Shades of Blue performing in downtown.

The 2026 Mahomet Soda Fest will take place on Saturday, June 13th from 10-6.

(Springfield–jc)  The vote was along party lines and the democrat majority in Springfield voted for a 56 Billion dollar plus budget that includes 800 Million dollars in new taxes.  51st District State Senator Chapin Rose, Republican from Mahomet, voted NO…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, also voted NO…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

(Springfield-jm) – A bill looking to require schools to consider the use of mobile panic alert systems has passed both the House and Senate. The bill would require school districts and private schools to consider the use of a mobile panic alert system in the development of their school emergency and crisis response plans by the beginning of the 2028-2029 school year.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois House passed a bill Saturday night to ban schools from expelling students in Kindergarten through second grade. Sponsors said early exclusion from school can trigger a domino effect of negative interactions between schools and families. This bill also states schools cannot suspend Pre-K through second graders without the principal receiving written or verbal consent from the superintendent.  The measure now heads to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk for final consideration.

(Ford County-jm) – Roberts and Melvin firefighters were called to a two vehicle accident Friday evening. It happened at the intersection of 800 north and 700 east just before 8:30. One vehicle did roll over and an occupant was trapped. It’s unknown if there were any injuries.

(Springfield-jm) – A plan heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could expand youth civic engagement in honor of Rev. Jesse Jackson. The bill would ensure all high schools offer students of voting age the opportunity to register during the school day in a safe, accessible and nonpartisan environment.  Sponsors said this plan can help even more young people be prepared to vote. Senate Republicans argued the State Board of Elections already provides voter registration information to schools. 

(Paxton–jc)  City of Paxton leaders are looking at regulations concerning E-Bikes in the city. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the city has investigated possibilities, but is waiting on some current legislation at the state level in Springfield to see, how to proceed, locally…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Police Department is investigating multiple shootings that happened Sunday and are asking for the public’s help as information is limited. Officers became aware of the first incident early Sunday morning, when a 17-year-old male arrived via personal transport at a local hospital with a potentially life-threatening gunshot wound on his abdomen. The teenager told police he was walking in the 2000 block of Moreland Boulevard when he was shot. He remains at the hospital in stable condition at this time. Just hours later at 5:32 a.m., a second person, a 36-year-old man, walked into the same emergency department with a head injury. He initially said he was hurt because of a sports-related incident in the Garden Hills neighborhood, but medical personnel quickly discovered it was a gunshot wound. The victim didn’t share any more details on what happened, and he also remains in stable condition at the hospital.

(Ford/Iroquois)-It’s the time of year when planting season is wrapping up.  Ford/Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Kacie Clair gives us an update on progress being made in our area.

Ford/Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Kacie Clair

(Rantoul–jc)  A Rantoul man was arrested on allegations of predatory criminal sexual assault Thursday night. In a release from Rantoul police Friday afternoon, police say they arrested 35-year-old Johnnie C. McClendon Junior of Rantoul. Upon an investigation by the Rantoul Police Department. McClendon was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Champaign County Jail, where he is being held pending formal charges and court proceedings. McClendon is employed as a bus driver by First Student, Inc., which provides transportation services for the Rantoul City School District. At this time, investigators have received no allegations of misconduct related to his employment, and the investigation appears to involve matters unrelated to his position with the company. Due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, no additional information is being released at this time. The investigation continues. Any information about this case may be given to the Rantoul Police Department or Champaign County Crime Stoppers.

(Paxton–dm)-If you have bare spots in your yard and plan on planting grass seed, Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen tells us a good way to get new grass started in your yard

Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen. You can hear more from Scott Saturday Mornings at 730 on Scott’s Tips for Success

(Kankakee–jc)  –Daniela Hernadez-Patrevito a 2026 graduate of the registered nursing program at Kankakee Community College, has been awarded The DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nursing Students. The annual award is part of The DAISY Foundation's mission to express gratitude to nurses with programs that recognize them for the extraordinary, compassionate and skillful care they provide patients and families. Hernadez-Patrevito, a Momence resident now works at Riverside Healthcare in Kankakee.

(Springfield-jm) – A bill heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could help address youth who are repeat gun offenders. Advocates say the intersection of mental health and juvenile gun crimes is a complex and pressing issue that must be addressed. The plan could require probation agencies to conduct an assessment of the minor's needs and identify restorative justice programs for high risk youth, cognitive behavioral therapy, family engagement and mentoring options.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Urbana Public Health District says six people from Champaign County are being monitored for Ebola symptoms after they recently returned from Central and East Africa. CUPHD says the six are being monitored but they are considered low risk and monitoring is not an indication that there is a danger to public health.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate passed the bipartisan plan to institute a statewide school cell phone ban Sunday. The bill requires school districts to adopt policies to ensure students do not use their cell phones during class time in a way that meets the needs of their community.  Districts would need to allow exceptions for high school students, children with IEPs, emergencies, student health or when the device is used for translation services. Schools will not be allowed to enforce cell phone bans through fines, fees or deployment of school resource officers and local law enforcement. The bill now goes to the governor.

(Melvin–jc)  The 2026 Miss Ford County Fair Queen pageant is coming soon. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

(Springfield-jm) — The Illinois House passed a bill Friday night to ban companies from manufacturing or selling cosmetic products containing forever chemicals. This ban would apply to PFAS found in makeup, hair and nail products, soaps, lotion, tanning products, perfume and cologne. Sponsors said Illinois should ensure beauty products are safe for everyone. House Bill 3409 passed out of the House on a 74-38 vote. It previously received unanimous support in the Senate. The measure now heads to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk for final approval.

(Springfield–jc)  The month of June will be Illinois Fallen Heroes month after legislation was passed this week in Springfield. 104th District State Representative Brandun Schweitzer, Republican from Danville, helped with the measure…

104th District State Representative Brandun Schweitzer, republican from Danville

(Urbana-jm) – A University of Illinois building was evacuated over the weekend following a chemical spill. Fire and Hazmat crews responded to Roger Adams Laboratory in response to a chemical spill. The incident was contained without incident.

(Rantoul–jc)  village leaders in Rantoul continue to provide the needed funds and studies involved with Prospect sub station for power on the west side of the village. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says the next study and needed supplies were approved by the board this month…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Paxton–jc)  –The Ford County Sheriff's Office has released its month of May report. During May, the Ford County Sheriff’s Office had just over 47 thousand dollars in income for the month including 23 thousand 528 in boarding fees. Sheriff’s police assisted 15 agency requests, 9 animal complaints, 4 suspicious vehicle reports, two thefts and 7 domestic issues. There was one death investigation in Ford County in May.

(Washington–jc)  The soybean crop continues in the planting and emerging stage around the area, state and nation. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey takes a quick look at this year’s crop…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Paxton–jc) Backyard chickens will be the topic of a city of Paxton committee on Tuesday. The committee of city council members will be looking at a proposed draft on keeping chickens on local property in Paxton. The meeting comes to order at 6-30 on Tuesday night on the second floor of city hall in downtown Paxton .

WPXN News notes…

The Gibson Area Chamber of Commerce annual fish fry will take place on Thursday, June 4th from 5-7 pm at the North Park Pavilion in Gibson City. Cost is $5.

Paxton townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 5th and Saturday, June 6th.

The village of Rantoul will hold their summer nights concert series on Friday, June 5th with Aces N’ Rhythms in downtown Rantoul.

Paxton Main Street will hold their First Friday concert on Friday, June 5th Back in Time performing at Veterans Square from 7-9 pm.

The 2026 Roberts Fun Day will take place on Saturday, June 6th. Activities include breakfast from 8-11, vendors from 8-3, bounce houses and silent auction 9-3, kids cart rides 11-1, bingo 11-2, food trucks 11-3, bags tournament at 4 and live music from 7-10.

Logan Kirby will perform at the Melvin Community Hall on Saturday, June 6th at 7pm. Cost is $10.