(Springfield-jm) – Amid a Moody's report describing Illinois as a below average performer in job and income growth, the governor is set to sign legislation opponents say will open business owners up to frivolous lawsuits. House Bill 2161 is now on the governor's desk. The bill seeks to prevent discrimination by an employer based on an employee’s family responsibilities.

(Springfield-jm) – An analysis of the Illinois state budget set to begin July 1 shows about $180 million will go toward violence intervention and youth summer jobs programs. Some question whether that will move the needle. Earlier this week, the U.S. Surgeon General labeled “gun violence” a “public health crisis.” Governor J.B. Pritzker praised Dr. Vivek Murthy’s message. He said Illinois is doing what it can by putting more tax dollars into violence intervention programs. The new Illinois state budget that begins Monday includes about $180 million in taxpayer funded grants to violence intervention and youth summer jobs programs. Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski questioned increased money toward such programs without making stronger deterrent to crimes. Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms Chairman Alan Gottlieb responded to Murthy’s message, saying “gun ownership is not a communicable disease, it’s a constitutional right.”

(Melvin–dm)-It’s Friday and that means it’s concert day at the Ford County Fair  Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen tells us what’s going on today

Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen.  Of Course the midway will be running during the concert.

(Urbana-jm) – State police responded to an accident on I-74 eastbound involving an ambulance Thursday morning in Champaign County. The crash happened just after 8 a.m. near milepost 185 in Urbana. Another accident happened Thursday afternoon west of the University Avenue exit. 

(Cissna Park–jc) One local business association leader is seeing positive trends for shopping local in her community. Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer says Cissna Park has a wide variety of marketing options and the number of people that are shopping in Cissna Park is growing…

Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer

(Champaign-jm) – The city of Champaign has been ranked as a top place to live. Champaign was ranked in Livability.com’s 2024 edition of their annual Top 100 Best Places to Live list.The website scores small and medium-sized U.S. cities with a population of up to 500,000 based on eight categories. Out of 1,000 points, Champaign scored a 702. The Central Illinois city’s biggest strengths were in transportation, housing and cost of living, environment and education, the website found. Champaign was one of five Illinois cities named in the list. The other four were Bloomington, Peoria, Evanston, and Naperville.

(Gibson CIty–jc) A Music festival is set for Gibson City on the Saturday following the 4th of July holiday. Gibson City Events Spokesperson Susie Tongate says 6 bands are coming to the Red White and Tunes Festival at Mark’s on First Saturday July 6th…

Red White and Tunes Festival Spokesperson Susie Tongate

(Melvin–jc)  The Oscar Mayer Weinermobile made a stop at the Ford County fair in Melvin last night. WPXN news talked to the Weinerbmobile’s Pickle Pip…

Oscar Mayer Weinermobile’s Pickle Pip.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker could soon sign a measure saying hotels with less than 50 rooms can't provide single use plastic bottles containing things like shampoo. Opponents say Senate Bill 2960 targets small business owners and puts unnecessary mandates on them. Proponents argue the measure protects the environment. Republicans say enforcing the ban will utilize precious law enforcement resources that are already stretched thin because of the Pretrial Fairness Act, which ended cash bail statewide. If a hotel is caught using single use plastic, they will be issued a written warning. Upon a second offense, they will be fined up to $500.

(Springfield-jm) – Despite an increase in funding for wind farm operators, wind production was down in 2023.  According to the Energy Information Administration, last year saw record highs in installed wind capacity and subsidies, but production is falling in Illinois and around the country.  Illinois has nearly 3,000 wind turbines in operation, which is the sixth highest total in the nation. The Illinois Power Agency cited supply chain and ongoing interconnection delays as creating significant challenges to meeting the state’s clean energy goals. An energy insider says grid connection has become a leading barrier to new power plants coming online and new renewables being deployed. There is also local opposition to wind projects as many counties around the country have blocked wind farm proposals. In Illinois, Governor J.B. Pritzker said he would allow for local control, then did an about face and prohibited counties from preventing wind projects.  Lawmakers continue to throw money at the industry, as the federal government spent nearly $19 billion on subsidies for wind power from 2016 to 2022.

(Springfield-jm) – It’s only the end of June but the Illinois State Fair will be here in 6 weeks. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City talks about the fair…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign-jm) – A man from Champaign is recovering in the hospital after he was shot Thursday. The shooting happened on Mattis Avenue near John Street. Responding officers found the 25-year-old victim at the scene with gunshot wounds on his upper leg, which police say were potentially life-threatening. The Champaign Police Department says the investigation so far indicated that the man was standing in the courtyard of his apartment complex when a man approached him, opened fire and then left.

(The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a measure expanding a slew of tax credits for things like electric vehicle manufacturers, quantum computing, filmmakers and more. House bill 50-oh-5 impacts tax credit programs for the film industry and research and development projects across the state, as well as for the Economic Development for a Growing Economy and Reimagining Energy and Vehicles programs. Pritzker's office said the bill also builds on Illinois’ growing status as a tech hub and reduces red tape for the Blue Collar Job Act, another tax credit program…

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker. Some Republicans say it is just another big corporate “bail-out.” 100th District State Representative J D Davidsmeyer has this reaction to the signing of the measure into law…

100th District State Representative J D Davidsmeyer-Republican,  of Murrayville. 

(Springfield-jm) – Several new laws go into effect on July 1 in Illinois, many of which were controversial when adopted. WPXN’s Dan Mushrush reports…

(Champaign-jm) – Leaders of Parkland Community College and its Professional Support Staff Association are working with additional help at the bargaining table. The current 3-year collective bargaining agreement for the support staff is set to expire on June 30, but both sides have not been able to come to an agreement on a contract. A mediator has been brought in to assist with the negotiations.

(Melvin–dm)-You have probably heard of the Ford County Emergency Management Agency, but do you know what all they do?  Ford County EMA Coordinator Terry Whitebird tells us about some of the activities they do.

Ford County Emergency Management Agency Coordinator Terry Whitebird. If you would like more information about the Ford County Emergency Management Agency, you can visit their booth at the Ford County Fair.

(Gifford-jc)  –  The Gifford Celebration is set for all day Saturday. Gifford Celebration spokesperson Logan Hesterberg says the day in Gifford steps off with a 5-K and kids run…

GIfford Celebration Spokesperson Logan Hesterberg

Other activities include a car and coffee event at 8am, parade at 10, bags tournament and fire works at night. 

WPXN will be broadcasting the parade live with Becky Puetz at 10 tomorrow morning. 

WPXN News Notes…

Jeremiah 33-6 is hosting a produce pantry and health fair today at the Roberts VIllage Gym The free event runs from 3-30pm to 5-30pm today.

The Ford County Fair continues tonight with country music artists Rodney Atkins and Chris Cagle at 7: 30 and Saturday it's the demolition derby at 6: 30.

Rankin will hold their 4th of July celebration today and tomorrow. Tonight the tractor pulls starting at 6pm. Saturday it's a full day with the 5k at 8 am, church service at 10, Bingo and kids games start at 11:30, car show from 1-4, cake walk at 1:30, kids water ball competition at 2:30, live music starting at 2:30 with fireworks wrapping up the celebration at dusk at Centennial Park.

Gifford will hold their annual celebration on Saturday with the 5k run/walk at 7, cars and coffee at 8, parade at 10, activities and food trucks at Werner Roessler Park from 11-3, bags tournament downtown at 3 and fireworks at dusk.

The Junk in the Trunk flea market at The Gathering in Gilman will take place on Saturday from 9-2.

The Buckley Community Group will hold their Junk in the Trunk on Saturday from 9-2.

Paxton IGA will hold their cookout benefiting Loda Legion on Saturday from 10-2.

The Elliotts Amvets Ingolds Meat Raffle Drawing will take place on Saturday with a grilled pork sandwich lunch for $8 from noon to 2 with the drawing taking place during the lunch.

(Springfield-jm) – A ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court about a federal bribery statute is expected to impact the high profile trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan as a defense attorney for the ComEd Four found guilty last year expects a retrial. Madigan was charged with 22 counts of corruption in 2022 in a case federal authorities called “Madigan Enterprise.” They alleged over nearly a decade, Madigan used his position as House Speaker to steer contracts and no-show jobs from Commonwealth Edison to his associates in exchange for legislation favorable to the utility company. Madigan was to go on trial in April but with the U.S. Supreme Court taking up a bribery conviction challenge out of Indiana, the judge postponed the trial until October. Wednesday, the Supreme Court issued their ruling in the case Snyder v. U.S. "Although a gratuity or reward offered and accepted by a state or local official after the official act may be unethical or illegal under other federal, state, or local laws, the gratuity does not violate §666 [the federal bribery statute]," Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote for the majority opinion. The ruling isn’t expected to affect 15 of the 22 counts against Madigan. Madigan faces an additional charge in a case involving a former AT&T official.

(Melvin–dm)-It’s Thursday and Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen tells us about today’s activities at the Ford County fair.

Ford County Fair President Steve  Meenen.  If you are an active military or veteran

You have free gate admission today. The Oscar Mayer Wienermobile is also set to make an appearance at the Ford County Fair this afternoon. 

(Washington-jm) – Former Republican congressman Adam Kinzinger endorsed President Joe Biden on Wednesday. Kinzinger, a military pilot who became a fierce critic of former President Donald Trump after the 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol, described Trump in a video as a “direct threat to every fundamental American value.” Shortly after Kinzinger announced his decision, Biden shared the video on social media and said he was grateful for the Republicans' support.

(Rantoul–jc)  Plans for a new hotel and a new restaurant continue on the west side of Rantoul. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says the timeline for a new hotel could be 9 to 10 months away from completion…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Gifford-jm) – The Village of Gifford announced that their water tower will go offline throughout July. They said the water tower is in need of maintenance. Officials say that the shutdown will not disrupt water service. However, residents should expect lower water pressure. Officials also ask that locals be mindful of water usage. Operations will be paused from July 2 -31.

(Normal-jm) – Volkswagen announced plans to invest up to $5 billion in electric vehicle maker Rivian, beginning with an initial investment of $1 billion. The joint venture aims to create electrical architecture and software technology. Rivian officials said the capital is expected to carry the company through the production ramp-up of its smaller R2 SUVs at its plant in Normal. Shares of Rivian soared more than 50% during after hours trading. The stock has been under pressure due to the company’s cash burn and significant losses.

(Washington-jm) – Some areas of the country are suffering from record-breaking heat. An animal care expert has some advice for dog owners in those areas. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a measure expanding a slew of tax credits for things like electric vehicle manufacturers, quantum computing, filmmakers and more. House Bill 5005 impacts tax credit programs for the film industry and research and development projects across the state, as well as for the Economic Development for a Growing Economy and Reimagining Energy and Vehicles programs. Pritzker's office said the bill also builds on Illinois’ growing status as a tech hub and reduces red tape for the Blue Collar Job Act, another tax credit program. Opponents of the measure in the Illinois House said the bill is a tax carve out for large businesses at the expense of small businesses. The 2025 fiscal year budget starting July 1 increases taxes another $750 million. There's also an another annual increase in state motor fuel tax. An updated analysis by MoneyGeek, a personal finance site, evaluates how “tax friendly” each state is by calculating the tax burden on the average citizen. The state that scored worst overall was Illinois, where taxes represent about 13% of a median family’s income. Illinois was given an F grade for its tax burden.

(Springfield-jm) – Head Start programs around the state are getting a financial boost. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City explains…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Sibley-jm) – Sibley firefighters were called to a truck fire Wednesday evening. The call came in just before 6:30 on Route 47 and 1400 north. All the people got out of the vehicle.

(Undated-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced intended road projects between fiscal years 2026 and 2030.WPXN’s Dan Mushrush has a look at projects scheduled for the area…

(Melvin–jc)  It’s the second day of truck and tractor pulls, with more fun on the midway and lots of food and the 4-H Auction today at the Ford County Fair in Melvin. . Newly crowned Miss Ford County Fair Queen Kate Wilson says she has been busy helping with ribbons and more and will be there for today’s activities and also has the job of introducing Chris Cagle and Rodney Adkins on Friday night…

2024 Miss Ford County Fair Queen Kate Wilson

(Danville-jm) – State Representative Brandun Schweizer has announced dates for his “What’s Brewing” coffee tour taking place in July. Representative Schweizer is encouraging all constituents in the 104th District to come to his coffee events to ask questions, share concerns, and receive a legislative update. Representative Schweizer will be visiting: Mad Goat Coffee in Danville on July 8th from 9:30-10:30 a.m., Red Wheel Restaurant in Rantoul on July 15th from 9:30-10:30 a.m. and Industrial Donut in Savoy on July 22nd from 9:30-10:30 a.m.

(Paxton–jc)  The Old Fashioned 4th of July celebration is set for one week from today at Pells park in Paxton. Paxton Mainstreet Group Executive Director Donna Pepper says park activities start with a 5-K run and then activities start in the park…

Paxton MainStreet Group Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Rantoul-jm) – A Rantoul man is facing multiple charges after breaking into a home and stealing a family's dog. Shance Dalton was arrested after a woman reported her door kicked in and then saw Dalton holding the dog and riding her son’s bike.

(Washington-jm) – There's a national plan to help rural communities cope with the effects of climate change. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois is on the path to build a new state agency that will oversee all state services involving early childhood development and education. Capitol News Illinois reports Governor J-B Pritzker signed a bill Tuesday that creates the Department of Early Childhood. The new agency will take over programs that are currently being run by three different state agencies. These programs include early childhood block grants, childcare assistance, daycare licensing and more. Governor  Pritzker says by unifying the services under one department, families should find them easier to use and more available…

Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker. The transition from multiple state agencies to the new Early Childhood Department will take two years, and new programs will launch when the department is fully operational on July 1, 2026.

(Springfield-jm) – On the governor’s desk and ready to be signed is Senate Bill 1400, which seeks to improve discipline procedures by creating statewide guidelines for school districts. On the House floor, state Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, explained how his bill, which is an initiative of the Illinois Education Association, tasks the Illinois State Board of Education to team up with experts to create standards surrounding disciplinary actions like expulsion and suspension. The bill removes a current provision within the law that allows districts to immediately transfer a student to an alternative school, if that student has been suspended for 20 days or more. State Rep. Dan Ugaste, R-Geneva, said he’s concerned the guidelines will eventually be used to usurp local control.

(Melvin–dm)-The Ford County Fair is going on through Saturday and Ford 

County Fair President Steve Meenen has today’s events.

Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen. If you are a firefighter or first responder you get into the fair for free today.

(Champaign-jm) – In the wake of severe storms, the Champaign Fire Department extinguished a roof fire on Tuesday afternoon. Officials said a powerline fell on an apartment building’s roof in the area of South Mattis Avenue and Henry Street. As a result, the top corner of the roof caught on fire.

(Rantoul–jc)  The number of businesses that are being placed on the west side of Rantoul along U-S Route 136 continues to grow.  Rantoul leaders have welcomed the Main Scoop, Jersey Mikes and Starbucks to the village. Culvers is planning a new location in the village and one local bank is set to build in that area. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says plans for a new Busey Bank continue…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Washington-jm) – A recently announced nationwide food loss and waste reduction strategy involves four pillars which includes efforts by the Agriculture Department. Rod Bain reports…

(Iroquois County-jm) – Strong storms moved through part of the area early Tuesday morning. The National Weather Service reported nearly 80 mph winds and 2 inch hail in the Crescent City area. Some of the same was reported in and around the town of Milford. Power outages were reported in the Champaign Urbana and Springfield areas on Tuesday. 

(Springfield-jm) – State Treasurer Michael Frerichs says his office recently passed a significant milestone with the state’s unclaimed property. Treasurer Frerichs says they passed the two billion dollar mark giving back unclaimed property to those they belong to…

State Treasurer Michael Frerichs.

(Springfield-jm) – Artificial intelligence is making its mark on many industries, and now appears to be impacting Illinois agriculture. An AI farms project at the University of Illinois has trained a language model to answer agricultural crop questions. School officials said the Artificial Intelligence for Future Agricultural Resilience, Management, and Sustainability Institute will serve as a nexus for multidisciplinary research teams that advance foundational AI and use the advances to address important challenges facing world agriculture.

(Undated-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced intended road projects between fiscal years 2026 and 2030.WPXN’s Dan Mushrush has a look at projects scheduled for Iroquois County…

(Watseka-jm) – One person is hospitalized after an electrical fire in a house in Watseka Tuesday morning. It happened near East Sheridan and North 16th Streets at 9:54 a.m. A smoke detector started going off in the house, alerting six occupants to a fire in the basement. They were able to get themselves and four pets out of the house. Firefighters determined that it was sparked from an electrical failure in some chargers sitting on a desk. One of the home’s occupants was transported to Iroquois Memorial Hospital for smoke inhalation.

(Springfield-jm) – There is still controversy surrounding a legislative bill that would ban slating in elections. A Sangamon County judge ruled the legislation unconstitutional however 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett says the Pritzker Administration is asking for the state Supreme Court to take up the issue…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Washington-jm) – USDA's Cattle on Feed report suggests cattle herd reduction is continuing. Gary Crawford reports…

(Hoopeston-jm) – A Hoopeston man is facing arson charges following a suspicious fire. It happened in the 500 block of East Young Street. James Brayboy was arrested for arson and is currently in the Vermilion County jail.

(Melvin–jc)  It’s tractor and truck pull time at the Ford County fair in Melvin. This year there are two days of pulls with a longer and wider track. Ford County Fair Director Wade Rueck (rick) says there is a large group of classes on Wednesday and also Thursday…

Ford County Fair Director Wade Rueck

The Truck and Tractor Pulls begin at 6pm on Wednesday and Thursday at the fairgrounds in Melvin

Wednesday, June 26

9:00am – Jr. Beef Show, Jr. Rabbit Show

5:00pm – Ford County 4-H Premium Auction – Show Barn

6:00pm – Illiana Truck & Tractor Pull – Grandstand

Petting Zoo in the Commercial Building

WPXN News Notes…

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold their foodmobile today from 9-9:30 at the Danforth Community Hall, 10-10:30 at the Ashkum village park, 10:45-11:30 at the Clifton village hall, 12:30-1 at the Beaverville post office and 1:30-2 at the Donovan community building.

(Springfield-jm) – The Office of Statewide Pretrial Services unveiled a new interactive pretrial data dashboard Monday that provides a summary of several initial decision points for criminal cases filed since the implementation of the Pretrial Fairness Act on Sept. 18, 2023. The dashboard provides data on the 75 counties in which the office provides pretrial services.

(Melvin–jc)  – The 20-24 Ford County fair has a new queen. She is 18 year old Kate Wilson of Paxton. Wilson was excited when they called her name last night in Melvin…

2024 Miss Ford County Fair Kate Wilson of Paxton

(Springfield-jm) – Recent rulings from the U.S. Supreme Court impacting firearms has those in Illinois’ gun control debate declaring their sides are bolstered. In the case Garland v. Cargill, the majority opinion said federal government agencies cannot create laws through rulemaking, as was done with the ATF banning devices that can connect to a semi-automatic rifle to increase the rate of fire. The dissent acknowledged semi-automatic firearms are “common” when discussing the event that prompted the Trump administration from moving forward with the ban outside of an act of Congress. Illinois State Rifle Association’s Ed Sullivan said acknowledging semi-automatic rifles are common will be important to the ongoing challenge against Illinois’ gun ban. In the challenge against Illinois’ semi-automatic firearm ban, the U.S. Supreme Court has yet to determine if it will take the case on preliminary grounds. The Southern District of Illinois federal court scheduled a bench trial for the case for Sept. 16. Arguments include whether the government can ban commonly owned firearms. The Pritzker Administration says Illinois’ bump stock ban will remain in place and said the gun ban is constitutional.

(Melvin–dm)-Melvin’s the place, the Ford County Fair is what’s happening.  Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen gives us a rundown of today’s activities.

Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen.  If you are a teacher you get into the fair at no cost today.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is seeking assistance regarding a criminal damage that occurred within the apartment complex Tower at Third, located at 302 East John Street in Champaign. On June 4, at approximately 12:00 a.m., an unknown suspect damaged television broadcast equipment housed in the penthouse on the 21st floor. The damage caused equipment failure and a response from technicians, who notified police. The damaged equipment was valued at over $50,000.

(Rantoul–jc)  There is an opportunity to learn more about solar power for your home or business. It is set for the village hall in Rantoul tonight. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says representatives from the solar industry will be at village hall Tuesday afternoon at 5-30 and the public is invited…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Undated-jm) – GasBuddy surveyed 79 Champaign gas stations and determined that the city’s average gas price has risen 9.4 cents in the last week. This makes the new average $3.51 a gallon. That is 11 cents lower than this time last month and 13 cents lower than one year ago. This comes as Illinois gears up for an annual motor fuel tax increase on July 1. To account for inflation, the tax is increasing from 45 cents a gallon to 47 cents. Since electric vehicle owners don’t pay the fuel tax, they are charged $100 dollars a year on top of their annual registration fee to make up for lost tax revenue. Nationwide, GasBuddy said gas is averaging $3.41 a gallon and diesel is at $3.76/g. While that is a tiny 0.3-cent increase for gas since the prior week, diesel experienced a higher difference at 2.4 cents more.

(The Center Square) – Some craft breweries in Illinois branching off into the hemp beverage industry are relieved that proposed restrictions stalled in Springfield, but they wonder what the future holds.A measure that didn’t make it out of the General Assembly would allow the sale of hemp products, but only by businesses licensed under the current cannabis law. Industry experts said hemp drinks have been a lifeline for struggling breweries still trying to recover from the pandemic. Ray Stout, executive director of the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild, said those who want restrictions in place were not forthcoming with their legislation.

(Rankin–dm)-It’s number 25 for the tractor pull in Rankin on Friday. Friday’s weigh in starts at 3pm and the pull starts at 6pm says Rankin Tractor Pull Announcer Tom Theesfeld….

Tractor pull track announcer Tom Theesfield  if you want more information about the tractor pull you can call Shane Diskin at 217-302-1920. WPXN will be there live on Friday afternoon with Becky Puetz as part of our Summer Fun Tour 20-24

(Maryland-jm) – Gov. JB Pritzker is hitting the national stage for economic development. The Democrat spoke on a panel Monday morning during the SelectUSA Investment Summit in National Harbor, Maryland. Pritzker said this trip is a perfect opportunity to highlight the top reasons why foreign businesses should invest in Illinois. Michigan, Nevada, Virginia and Illinois are very different states, but their governors are all committed to promoting foreign direct investments. Pritzker said Illinois is a global innovation hub with nearly 2,700 international companies representing over 80 countries and directly supporting over 550,000 jobs across the state. Pritzker said he is glad that the Illinois economy has recovered following the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to major investments in renewable energy, manufacturing and quantum technology.  However, Pritzker noted that governors have stepped up to market their states without much help from leaders in the nation's capital.

(Undated-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced intended road projects between fiscal years 2026 and 2030.WPXN’s Dan Mushrush has a look at projects scheduled for Champaign County…

(The Center Square) – Not everyone was on board with a measure now on Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's desk that seeks to limit the kind of defense accused offenders can use when charged with the misdemeanor of hazing. Illinois Senate Bill 2934 had support from Republicans and Democrats, but some lawmakers expressed concern about the bill infringing on an individual's right to defense.  The bill’s sponsor, state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Loves Park, fielded questions from state Rep. Patrick Windhorst, R-Metropolis, on the House floor before it passed in May. Vella said consent is not a defense to hazing. 

(Urbana-jm) – A woman was taken to the hospital early Monday morning after she was hit by a car in an Urbana crosswalk. Urbana Police said a 50-year-old woman was crossing the street westbound at the intersection of Kenyon & Cunningham around 6:15 a.m. Monday. A man driving turned left onto Cunningham and struck the woman in the crosswalk. According to police officials, the driver said the sun was in his eyes and he did not see the woman at all before hitting her. The woman was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. The driver was ticketed for failure to yield to a pedestrian.

(The Center Square) – A bill that had bipartisan support and is on the governor's desk would remove eligibility requirements for individuals seeking to take a nursing assistant certification exam in Spanish.  House Bill 5218 requires the Illinois Department of Public Health to offer the exam and it prevents the department from implementing "impractical" eligibility requirements. State Senator. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago, said the nursing assistant certification exam is currently available in Spanish, but no individual has been able to take the exam due to the requirements needed to take the Spanish exam.

(Urbana–jc) You’ve heard “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” But what about tomatoes helping the fight against cancer? It’s true. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has more.

Drizzling olive oil on your tomatoes helps absorb the nutrients.Don’t like them? Tomato sauce or soup are alternatives.

(Urbana-jm) – Construction and renovation is coming to the University of Illinois campus this summer in the form of over 40 different projects. The University’s Facilities and Streets Department said the projects include classroom and laboratory modernizations, roof replacements, accessibility improvements, infrastructure revitalization and utilities renewal. While some are happening inside university buildings and out of view from passersby, others have scaffolding on the outsides of buildings. Two of the visible projects are happening at Altgeld Hall and Memorial Stadium. Elsewhere, new roofs are coming to the Illini Union, the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts and Gregory Hall, other masonry projects are happening at Noyes Laboratory and Wohlers Hall, and construction will continue on the new Steven S. Wymer Hall.

(Melven–)-The Ford County Fair in Melvin is gearing up for the big concert on Friday featuring Rodney Atkins and Chris Cagle.  Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen Has more information including how to get tickets

Ford  County Fair President Steve Meenen

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced that the state's unemployment rate increased to 4.9%, while nonfarm payrolls increased +12,700 in May, based on preliminary data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The national unemployment rate was 4.0% in May.

(Undated-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced road projects scheduled for this year. WPXN’s Dan Mushrush has the details…

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Fire Department responded to a working fire in the 1100 block of North Champaign St., Sunday at 6:03 p.m.  Upon arrival on the scene, fire crews found smoke and flames coming from a detached garage, car, and rubbish that was behind a residence. Crews quickly deployed multiple hose lines and extinguished the fire. The fire was contained to the property of origin. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

(Bradley-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation is hosting a career fair on Thursday in Bradley.  The fair will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Quality Inn Bradley- Bourbonnais, 800 N. Kinzie Ave. Representatives from the offices and bureaus who oversee both technical and administrative support responsibilities will be available to discuss current and upcoming employment opportunities at the various IDOT locations.

(Urbana-jm) – Two people are behind bars after an armed robbery. It happened around 1:45 p.m. Saturday in the 1900 block of S. Philo Road. Urbana Police says, officers were called for reports of a robbery of a person inside of a local business. After police arrived, the suspects ran away and two officers were hurt during the foot pursuit. They were taken to the hospital for treatment and then released. 18 year old Shyjuan Dorris of Urbana was arrested in the 1100 block of E. Colorado. A few hours later, 18 year old Jayden Jackson of Savoy was arrested. Both are facing Armed Robbery and Unlawful Use of a Weapon charges.

(Springfield-jm) – The state is increasing school safety through the Safe Routes to School program. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City talks about the program…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign County-jm) – One person is hurt after a crash Friday morning involving a farm sprayer tractor and an SUV in Champaign. Champaign County Sheriffs responded to the accident at 2301 Leverett Road.

(Melvin–jc)  –  The 20-24 Ford County Fair Queen Pageant is tonight. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

(Paxton–dm )-If you have a swimming pool, it’s probably had a lot of use lately.  Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen says to make sure to test your pool water and how often….

Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen

Scott has a weekly program on Saturday mornings at 7-30 called Scotts Tips for Success

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois residents, who pay the second highest gas tax in the country, will see an increase at the pump starting July 1st. That’s when the automatic annual Motor Fuel Tax increases to account for inflation. Currently, the tax stands at 45 cents a gallon. On July 1st, 2024, it will increase to 47 cents a gallon. Before 2019, the state had a 19 cents per gallon gas tax. It was doubled that year to 38 cents to help fund a $45 billion infrastructure bill. At the same time, lawmakers set the tax to increase each year to adjust for inflation, sparing a public vote on a tax hike.

(Melvin–dm)-The Ford County Fair is going on in Melvin now through Saturday.  Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen tells us what’s going on today at the fair.

Ford County Fair President Steve Meenen.

(Urbana-jm) – University Police have issued a campus safety alert on Friday for a crime. A University of Illinois Student exited the restroom at the Main Library on Gregory Drive, when a person grabbed a private body part over someone’s clothing. University Police say the incident happened around 12:30 p.m. on Friday. The student did not know the person who touched them. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact University Police at 217-333-1216.

(Tolono-jm) – Champaign County firefighters responded to a large field fire in Tolono late Saturday morning. After the fire was called in at 11:11 a.m., firefighters from the Savoy and Tolono Fire Departments were dispatched to 1011 at County Road 1200 E. Pesotum and Bondville Fire Departments also arrived to assist in controlling the fire. Fire officials say the flames started from a controlled fire which got out of control, spreading into the long grass nearby.

(Champaign–dm)- If you drive a vehicle for a living, you’re at a higher risk for back, hip and leg injuries. For example, sudden braking shifts your pelvis and can lead to long-term pain. But there are ways to reduce your risk. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has more from a local spine doctor.

 Another key is to take a break to stretch every two to three hours. If time is money, try to time your breaks with when you need food or gas.

(Piatt County-jm) – Piatt County Emergency Management has unveiled a new Mobile Command Center vehicle. The new vehicle, dubbed MC-1, will include the following capabilities: Advanced communication systems, Real-time monitoring capabilities, High-speed internet connectivity and Integrated video conferencing

The mobile command center will be able to help in the event of natural disasters, public safety incidents, emergencies, or community events.

(Rantoul-jm) – A Champaign man was arrested in Rantoul after a robbery Thursday afternoon. Rantoul Police confirmed the Community Plus Federal Credit Union on East Champaign Avenue was robbed just after 1 p.m. Bank employees said the robber had implied he had a weapon but did not display it. Staff at the bank gave METCAD a description of the suspect. As an officer arrived at the scene, they found a subject matching the description who ran away as the officer approached. Police arrested 40-year-old Troy Burke from Champaign for aggravated robbery, and he is currently being held in Champaign County Correctional Center.

(Springfield-jm) – A measure that allows for your driver's license to be digitalized is on its way to the governor for his signature. State Representative Kam Buckner, carried House Bill 4592, an initiative of the Illinois Secretary of State. The measure would allow the Secretary of State to issue digital ID cards and driver’s licenses that can be stored on someone’s smartphone. Buckner expressed that physical IDs tend to be doctored and manipulated and digitizing could help correct that problem. House Republicans raised concerns about law enforcement abusing their authority and illegally searching and seizing cell phones that house digital IDs.

(Washington-jm) – The U.S. has just released an updated Climate Adaptation Plan. Gary Crawford reports…

(Gibson City-jm) – The Gibson City Pool has reopened, even earlier than pool management thought. The pool closed for one week while work was done to rebuild the pool’s pump, which was damaged by severe weather last Thursday. The pool will be open for regular hours for the remainder of the summer.

(Normal–jc)  –  The IHSA Girls state finals will remain at Illinois State University. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Police Department responded to a car crash Thursday afternoon. The crash happened near the intersection of South Neil Street & Fox Drive around 3 p.m. One car did not stop at a red light and struck a second car in the intersection to flip it on its side. The car then landed on another vehicle. One person was taken to the hospital for minor injuries. A driver was ticketed for failing to stop at a traffic signal.

(Arlington–dm)-Serving at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is both an honor and privilege. One Iroquois County resident did just that during his tenure in the U S Army. Gilman resident Matt Kreeb says the time at the tomb was a daily job of commitment and joy. Kreeb provides some insight to what the Tomb of The Unknown Soldier represents…

Gilman resident and former Guard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,  Matt Kreeb

(Gibson City–jc)  One Ford County city is hosting its first annual Food Truck Festival on Saturday. The event is set for North Park along Lott Boulevard in Gibson City.  Gibson City Food Truck Event Spokesperson Kelsey Wingler says food trucks vendors, kids games and more hilite Saturday’s 10am to 7pm event…

Gibson City Food Truck Event Spokesperson Kelsey Wingler

(Springfield-jm) – A bill on Governor J.B. Pritzker's desk would allow for electrified security fence construction without the need for local government permission. House Bill 2154 prohibits local governments from requiring a permit before installing a battery-charged fence on nonresidential property. The measure, if enacted, would apply to both electrified fencing for agricultural use and electrified security fencing to prevent trespassing. Opponents say they worry the legislature is stepping on local governments' toes.

(Washington-jm) – USDA's latest outlook for milk production, trade, and prices show similar, month-over-month upward trends. Rod Bain reports…

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Police Department is investigating after a large group was broken up during a fight at a gas station overnight Thursday. Police say that at 1:18 a.m. on Thursday, officers were dispatched to the Circle K at University Avenue and Wright Street for a reported fight. When they arrived, they found a large crowd watching the fight take place between multiple people. The people watching the fight immediately began running away from the scene once police arrived. Three people were taken to the hospital as a precaution with only minor injuries.

(Onarga–dm)-The Village of Onarga will be celebrating Independence Day Friday July 5th and Saturday July 6th. Onarga Chamber of Commerce president Randy Lizzio tells us what's going on Saturday Afternoon.

Onarga Chamber of Commerce President Randy Lizzio.  The Parade steps off at 11AM Saturday morning.

(Vermilion County-jm) – With temperatures reaching toward the mid-90s in many parts of Central Illinois, it can be risky to sport long sleeves — much less a coat of fur. Staff with the Vermilion County Animal Shelter are in a sticky situation as they currently battle an air conditioning outage in parts of the building. Shelter staff said about 200 animals are currently impacted by the indoor humidity. Many cats and dogs are overheating and panting. Currently, the Vermilion County Animal Shelter is mostly in need of foster homes — even for a weekend or a week — while the situation gets sorted out.

(Champaign–dm)-  Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay says he’s lucky to be alive and well after a recent bicycle crash that left him with a big bruise on his midsection.Now Ramsay is joining health care providers in urging people to ride safely this summer.Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has more from a local doctor.

All ages should wear a helmet when riding, and kids should wear elbow and knee pads.And in general, less bare skin is better in case you fall and get road rash.For more tips, visit the OSF Newsroom.

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold their foodmobile today from 9-930 am at the Piper City Community Center, 10-10:30 at Living Word Church in Roberts, 11-11:30 across from Melvin Convenient, 12:15-12:45 at the Gibson City city hall, 1-1:30 at Elliott village hall and from 2-2:30 at Paxton Hardware and Rental.

The Elliott Amvets spaghetti dinner will take place this evening from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10 per plate.

The Gibson City third Friday car cruises will take place this evening with cruising starting at 5 and live music by the Bubble City Playboys from 6-9 pm.

Paxton IGA will hold their cookout benefiting Bayles Lake Auxiliary on Saturday from 10-2.

Gibson City will hold their 1st annual food truck festival on Saturday from 10-7 at North Park in Gibson City.

The 2024 Ford County Fair kicks off Sunday and runs through Saturday, June 29th.

(Springfield-jm) – A veteran Illinois lawmaker is in opposition to recently introduced legislation that would make it a crime for government officials to knowingly fly an upside down flag on government property. State Representative Harry Benton has introduced legislation that would prohibit politically motivated efforts that disrespect the flag. Benton is responding to a local incident in which a Will County official flew the American flag upside down after Donald Trump was convicted on 34 felony counts. Steve Balich, supervisor of Homer Township in Will County, reportedly ordered the national flag outside the Homer Township offices to be flown upside down after the conviction of former President Donald Trump. Benton’s House Bill 5860 would make it a crime for a government official to knowingly cause the national flag to be displayed upside down on government property. Benton also filed House Bill 5861, which goes beyond making it a crime to fly an upside down flag but also makes it punishable by a fine of up to $25,000. Benton said in a news release that both of his bills, House Bill 5860 and House Bill 5861, clarify that the flag may only be flown upside down in situations where there is dire distress or extreme danger to life or property, the purpose for which such display is prescribed in the U.S. Flag Code.

(Springfield-jm) – The 2024 Kids Count Data Book was released this week. Terri Dee reports…

(Springfield-jm) – On Wednesday Don Tracy, the Chairman of the Illinois Republican Party, announced his resignation. In a resignation letter Tracy said that while he enjoyed the three and a half years he spent in the role, he would have preferred to have spent less time on "intra party power struggles." Tracy plans on resigning upon the election of his successor.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Secretary of State’s Office is reporting a data breach. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City says several thousand people could possibly be affected…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Undated-jm) – With dangerously high levels of heat forecast across the state of Illinois this week, including heat index forecasts approaching 100 degrees, the Illinois Department of Public Health is warning Illinoisans to take preventive actions to avoid heat-related illnesses. The department is urging Illinoisans to take precautions and protect themselves, their families and their pets from overheating and heat-related illnesses. Temperatures are expected to remain in the 90s in Illinois for several more days.

(Rantoul–jc)  Rantoul Village leaders are taking a pro-active approach to providing power to the industrial business within the village. A transformer issue earlier this month was one reason leaders are looking to provide more  power to the infrastructure in Rantoul. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says the village has invested a large amount of money for more equipment…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Rankin–dm)- As part of Rankin’s Independence Day Celebration, the Rankin Lions Club will host the 25th annual truck and tractor pull at Centennial Park on Friday June 28th.  Tractor pull track announcer Tom Theesfield has information on the different classes that will be pulling.

That’s tractor pull track announcer Tom Theesfield.  If you would like more information about the tractor pull, you can contact Shane Diskin at 217-304-1920.

(Springfield-jm) – Several U.S. oil and corn industry lobby groups are suing the Biden Administration over its plans to slash planet-warming tailpipe emissions from cars and trucks. The coalition argues the regulations will cause economic harm. Dave Loos, Illinois Corn Growers Association director of Biofuels, says higher octane fuels could be a solution. The EPA finalized new rules for models of semi-trucks, buses and other heavy-duty vehicles released from 2027 to 2032 in a bid to cut greenhouse gas emissions. Loos said another requirement that up to 56% of all car sales be electric between 2030 and 2032 is unrealistic. Loos said the final rule would result in over a billion bushels of corn lost by 2033. Illinois is the second leading state in corn production behind Iowa. The other states’ corn associations involved in the lawsuit include Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, Tennessee and Wisconsin. The EPA’s summary predicts the final rule will cost $870 billion in vehicle technology. The lawsuit argues the rule’s astronomical price tag requires congressional authorization.  Other groups involved in the lawsuit include the National Corn Growers Association, the American Farm Bureau Federation, and the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers.

(Springfield-jm) – As Congress prepares to start work on a new Farm Bill this week, hunters and anglers say billions of dollars in investments in private-lands conservation are at stake. Mark Richardson reports…

(Champaign County-jm) – A rural intersection in Champaign County will be undergoing construction today that will lead to the closure of at least one of the streets. The Champaign County Highway Department said culvert replacement will be taking place at County Roads 900N and 1350E until 6 p.m. During this time, CR 1350E will be closed completely while CR 900N — the Philo Slab — may be reduced to one lane of traffic.

(Paxton–jc)  Pells Park in Paxton will be full of activities on July 4th with the annual Old Fashioned 4th of July celebration event. Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper talks about giveaways, food and entertainment …

Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Urbana-jm) – After a contentious two-night debate, Urbana City Council has decided to add no new patrol officers to its police force. A new Deputy Chief and training Sergeant will be the only positions added. The decision came after Chief Larry Boone called for more staff and resources in next year's budget. Chief Boone said his officers are burnt out and working too much overtime.

(Rantoul–jc)  The village of Rantoul is growing and that means more power will be needed for new businesses, homes and factories over the next 10 years. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says village leaders continue to look at the power and water needs for those in Rantoul…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Washington-jm) – What does USDA’s latest look at beef production and steer prices reveal regarding 2024 and 2025 forecasts? Rod Bain reports…

WPXN News Note…

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold their foodmobile today from 9-930 am at Edge Insurance Buckley, 10-10:30 at Durham Park Onarga, 11-11:30 Crescent City Community Center, 12:30-1 at Runnings in Watseka and from 1:30-2 at Milford Town and Country.

(Undated-jm) – Today is Juneteenth. The holiday commemorates the ending of slavery in the United States, and was officially named a federal holiday in 2021. The post office, banks and government buildings are closed today. No noon markets or Edward Jones report today on WPXN. Most other places are open.

(Washington-jm) – If you have to work outside in severe heat, there are ways to help get you through and to help keep you from being hit by potentially deadly heat stress and stroke. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced another record-breaking year with export sales over $78.7 billion in 2023. According to rankings by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Illinois leads Midwest as the top exporting state and fifth in the nation. Since 2019, Illinois exports have increased by 32%. Mexico, Illinois’ second top export market, was the single greatest contributor to growth, with export sales exceeding 12% growth since 2022 and 39% since 2019. Top export markets include Canada, Mexico, Germany, China and Australia.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation has cautioned drivers to be on the lookout for pavement buckling on roads throughout the state due to high temperatures. The agency said that road crews are ready to respond to any repairs as quickly as possible. Drivers should avoid driving over buckled roads when possible.

(Springfield-jm) – The fate of two state prisons remains up in the air after a legislative panel failed to have enough members present to provide a recommendation to the state. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City explains the issue and what happens next…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Gibson City-jm) – The Gibson City Pool has announced a tentative reopening date following prolonged maintenance. Lightning from last week’s storms resulted in the pool’s pump being taken out. Rebuilding and installation of the pump is expected to be complete on Friday1. Once the pool water is filtered and meets the proper chemical levels, management said the pool can reopen. They hope to open Saturday.

(Paxton–jc)  Paxton’s Pells park will be the site for another “Old Fashioned” 4th of July Celebration this year. The event is sponsored by the Paxton Main Street Group and the Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce. Paxton Main Street Group Executive Director Donna Pepper says among the activities and music will be plenty of food options…

Paxton Main Street Group Executive Director Donna Pepper.

(Champaign County-jm) – New data from GasBuddy is showing a slight decrease in the price of gas around Champaign. A survey of 79 stations around town found that the city average dropped by three cents in the last week. The average price of a gallon of gas currently stands at $3.42. That’s 15 cents cheaper than one month ago and 23 cents cheaper than one year ago. Gas Buddy also found that Champaign’s average price of gas falls in line with the national average, which rose one cent to $3.41 per gallon. That’s down 18 cents compared to one month ago and down 14 cents from one year ago. The national average price of diesel fuel is $3.73 per gallon, about 1.5 cents cheaper than the average was a week ago.

(Melvin–jc)  The 2024 Miss Ford County Fair pageant is set for Monday. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

(Washington-jm) – One expert says heat illness is a complex medical issue and it's hard to know who is and who isn't susceptible to it. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate could pass a plan in November to phase out the sub-minimum wage for workers with developmental and intellectual disabilities. The proposal could create a special grant fund of $2 million to help community agencies transition away from the subminimum wages. The Dignity in Pay Act would eliminate the use of 14-C Certificates on July 1, 2029. House Bill 793 passed out of the House on a bipartisan 78-30 vote with representatives voting present. This plan would need support from three-fifths of the Senate since a vote would take place after May 31. Illinois would become the 18th state to eliminate sub-minimum wages if the plan is passed and signed into law.

(Springfield-jm) – Several Republican state lawmakers hope the Illinois Senate will vote on a plan during veto session to address sexual abuse by educators and authority figures in high schools. While there are strong protections in place for students 17 and younger, sponsors say educators and staff should be charged for sexual conduct with students between 18 and 23 years old. Under House Bill 4241, teachers or authority figures who sexually abuse these students could be charged with a Class A misdemeanor for their first offense and Class 4 felony for any repeat offenses. Sexual abuse by an educator involving intercourse would be charged as a Class 4 felony for the first offense and a Class 3 felony for repeat offenses. House Bill 4241 passed unanimously out of the House on April 19, but the measure failed to move after it arrived in the Senate.

(Melvin–jc)  It’s the 12th national concert set for the Ford County Fair in Melvin on Friday June 28th. WPXN’s Dan Mushrush has the story…

(Champaign-jm) – State Senator Paul Faraci is organizing a Summer Book Club to motivate students to read and sustain their educational pursuits throughout the summer break.The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form, and return the form to Faraci’s office by August 16. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and a certificate from Senator Faraci.

(Loda–jc)  Several groups help with events in Loda the last weekend in July. The loda Truck and Tractor Pull Association and the Loda Fireworks Association continue to plan for events on July 27th and 28th. Loda Fireworks and Events Spokesperson John Zalaker says they have a golf cart raffle to help raise money for fireworks that weekend…

Loda Fireworks and Events Spokesperson John Zalaker

(Iroquois County-jm) – Iroquois County Treasurer Kurt Albers, has announced that the 2023 payable in 2024 real estate tax statements have been mailed to the taxpayers of Iroquois County. The due date for the first installment will be July 12, 2024 and the due date for the second installment will be September 12, 2024. After the due dates a 1 ½ percent penalty must be added each month it remains unpaid, according to Illinois State Statutes. Taxpayers must include their tax bill when paying or a $2.00 fee will be charged. The Treasurer’s Office is open 8:30 to 4:30 Monday through Friday. The office is closed on June 19th observing Juneteenth and will also be closed on all other Federal holidays.

(Undated–jc)  – It’s a hot and humid end to Spring today and the first days of summer are expected to see temperatures into the mid 90s. To avoid overheating. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has some tips…

WPXN News Notes…

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold their foodmobile on Thursday from 9-930 am at Edge Insurance Buckley, 10-10:30 at Durham Park Onarga, 11-11:30 Crescent City Community Center, 12:30-1 at Runnings in Watseka and from 1:30-2 at Milford Town and Country.

The Elliott Amvets spaghetti dinner will take place Friday, June 21st from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10 per plate.

The Gibson City third Friday car cruises will take place on Friday, June 21st with cruising starting at 5 and live music by the Bubble City Playboys from 6-9 pm.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza is calling for passage of the Protect our Letter carriers Act. The bipartisan legislation was introduced in March and addresses the rise in violent crime against postal carriers on the job. According to the National Association of Letter Carriers, there have been more than 2,000 attempted or actual robberies and assaults against postal workers nationwide since 2020.

630 am new

(Springfield-jm) – A newly-unveiled master plan for the Illinois State Fairgrounds showcases some proposed upgrades to its events, attendance, and revenue generation. The Illinois Department of Agriculture and Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln announced the plans on Monday. If approved, the Fairgrounds will build an onsite hotel, expand sales and marketing staff, and create a “Town Square” south of the Midway to enhance curb appeal and help guests better navigate the grounds.

(The Center Square) – More than 300,000 Illinois residents stand to be cleared of all outstanding medical debt through the creation of the Medical Debt Relief Pilot Program Fund ready to be sent to the governor. Illinois State Representative Kelly Cassidy says the program is a help to many people in the state…

Illinois State Representative Kelly Cassidy-Democrat from Chicago.  The Bill seeks to alleviate medical debt for families across the state residing in households with individuals falling below 400% of the Federal Poverty Level or saddled with medical debt equating to 5% or more of their household income.

(Undated-jm) – The National Weather Service now says 5 tornadoes touched down in last Thursday's severe weather event. All of them were in McLean County with one staying on the ground and coming into Ford County. That tornado was on the ground for 7.6 miles lifting less than 2 miles northwest of Gibson City and had winds estimated at 110 mph. The National Weather Service also reports that damage in Gibson City, Elliott and Paxton were from downburst winds of 75-90 mph.

(Rantoul–jc) Village of Rantoul leaders continue to work with sources from the county and beyond to develop a  vision for the village. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says with facilities like the Rantoul Sports Complex, B-52 motocross racing and Hardy’s Reindeer ranch, Rantoul continues to grow into a regional draw community…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Urbana-jm) – One in five Americans has a mental illness, yet many don’t know what to do if they experience someone having a mental health crisis and are often hesitant to step in and help. That is why the University of Illinois Extension is providing 5 step mental health first aid training courses. The course is to teach people to recognize a mental health struggle or crisis and save a life if the situation arises. Mental health first aid training courses are available to anyone in the state, either online or in person, and in English or Spanish. The cost for the program is $60 which covers the lessons, materials, and 3 year certification. Though for those a part of the farming community, classes are free of charge through the program's partnership with U of I’s agricultural department. For more information about taking the training, contact Andrea Fanta, mental health specialist, at andreaf3@illinois.edu.

(Onarga–dm)-Onarga’s Independence Day Starts Friday July 5th from 4-10 pm with a dance at the American Legion Hall.Chamber of Commerce President Randy Lizzio tells us what activities are going on Saturday morning July 6th.

Onarga Chamber of Commerce President Randy Lizzio.  The afternoon is filled with lots of activities including fireworks at dusk

(Washington-jm) – Production forecasts for Russia and Ukraine are the predominant items within USDA's corn World Supply and Demand Estimate this month. Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Treasurer’s Office is holding an online auction this week for unclaimed property. A 1783 Spanish milled dollar, various tools, and a 14-karat gold bracelet are among hundreds of unclaimed property items to be auctioned through Friday. To take part, you will be required to register with iBid, the platform the state is using for the auction.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois has been losing population for years, especially young people, but an economic development specialist believes people can be drawn back for tourism. According to the Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism during fiscal year 2023, 111 million travelers visited Illinois creating an economic impact of $78 billion. Pandemic restrictions generated interest in rural outdoor activities. During a University of Illinois Extension webinar on marketing rural tourism, Pam Schallhorn said recreation dependent counties grew more than twice as fast as the nation overall and Midwest recreational counties mirrored the trend.

(Ford County-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced Monday that Illinois 115 in Ford County will be closed for a few months. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

(Champaign-jm) – This week Champaign County Crime Stoppers is seeking assistance from the public regarding an armed robbery. On May 30 at approximately 12:50 a.m., a food delivery driver was sent to the 300 block of East Clark Street for a delivery. After the driver exited his vehicle, he was approached by three subjects, one of which displayed a handgun, took the food, his wallet, and his phone. The three suspects fled westbound on foot. The suspects were described as two Hispanic males and a Hispanic female all described as being shorter with a thin build, and all were wearing face coverings and dark clothing.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Chamber of Commerce and Paxton Mainstreet Group continue to plan for the city’s 4th of July celebration at Pells Park. Paxton Mainstreet Group Executive Director Donna Pepper says more voices are always welcome for the 4th of July Choir that sings at Pells Park on the 4th of July…

Paxton Mainstreet Group Executive Director Donna Pepper.

(Champaign County-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about someone posing as an officer. The Sheriff's Office has been made aware of someone calling and identifying himself as a Sergeant when leaving a voicemail and asking for a call back. The person is asking for information related to another unknown individual. The number left is a Sheriff's Office number (384-1204) however the person leaving the message is not a Sheriff's Office employee. The Sheriff's Office said they are not sure what the caller is trying to do but said they are likely seeking personal or financial information in order to defraud the owner of the number. The Sheriff's Office reminds individuals to never give out personal or financial information unless the identity of the person you are speaking with can be verified. 

(Melvin–dm)While you may not raise livestock, there are other opportunities to enter exhibits  and compete for prize money at the Ford County Fair. WPXN’s Dan Mushrush has more information

(Washington-jm) – How do the numbers USDA forecasts for U.S. wheat production this month factor into the latest domestic supply and demand estimate? Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – More than 300,000 Illinois residents stand to be cleared of all outstanding medical debt through the creation of the Medical Debt Relief Pilot Program Fund ready to be sent to the governor. Sponsored by state Senator Mike Simmons, House Bill 5290 seeks to alleviate medical debt for families across the state residing in households with individuals falling below 400% of the Federal Poverty Level or saddled with medical debt equating to 5% or more of their household income. If approved by the governor, the five-year pilot program will work with a nonprofit to use $10 million to pay off up to $1 billion in medical debt.

(Undated–jc)  Summer starts on Thursday, but the heat is here today. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has some tips…

(Springfield-jm) – A state commission didn't vote Friday on a proposal to close two state prisons because it didn't have enough members at the meeting. A meeting location change isn’t a coincidence, according to one member of the Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability. The commission was supposed to vote Friday on its recommendation for the planned prison closures of Logan County Correctional and Stateville prison. Without a quorum, the panel couldn't take official action. Even if the Commission had taken a vote, some members were unclear on what exactly they were voting for because they said the department has a “concept” of closing two prisons rather than a plan. 

(Buckley-jm) – The 2024 Buckley Fun Day is in the books. The Buckley Fun Day is put on by a group called the Buckley Community Group. Spokesperson Sarah Dean talks about the group and the two big events in the village they plan every year…

Buckley Community Group Spokesperson Sarah Dean.

(Undated-jm) – The National Weather Service confirms three EF-1 tornadoes touched down during Thursday evenings storms. The weather service says one tornado was confirmed near the Lexington/Chenoa area while two tornadoes were reported between Anchor and Gibson City. The weather service also notes the storms that moved through produced winds up to 90 mph when they pushed through.

(Champaign County-jm) – A two-vehicle crash happened in Champaign County, State Police confirmed.The crash happened on Route 45 at Leverette Road, located between Rantoul and Urbana. Officials said the crash involved at least one car rolling over and added that people were hurt, but they provided no other details.

(Paxton–jc)  Plans continue for Paxton’s Old Fashioned 4th of July event set for Pells Park in the city. The Paxton Main Street Group and Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce are sponsoring the event this year and Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper provides some information about some of the events planned for the 4th…

Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper.

(Vermilion County-jm) – Members of the Vermilion County Board now know how much it would cost to complete energy savings and other improvements at five county-owned buildings. The price is just over $7.9 million dollars. The county has $6.5 million dollars available, and the $7.9 million dollar cost does not include new windows for the Joseph G. Cannon Building where many county offices are located. 

(Springfield-jm) – In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court striking down a ban on bump stocks, Governor J.B. Pritzker says the ruling should have no impact on Illinois but other states will take action.  The Gun Violence Prevention PAC Illinois said the decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to strike down the ban on dangerous bump stocks is a step in the wrong direction. The NRA applauded the move. Illinois already has a ban on bump stocks.

(Springfield-jm) – Planned Parenthood Illinois is giving another close look at the impacts of the overturning of Roe v. Wade in Illinois. They said the number of patients seeking care, especially out-of-state patients, is still skyrocketing. Planned Parenthood Illinois said they started seeing this surge in patients right after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. Since then, Planned Parenthood Illinois has seen a 47% increase in overall abortion care patients traveling from 41 different states. Planned Parenthood Illinois said this makes up nearly 25% of their overall abortion patients. Before the Dobbs decision, it was 3% to 5%. In 2023, which was one year after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, Planned Parenthood Illinois saw a 54% increase in patients. 25% of patients traveled from 34 different states to Illinois, compared to just 7% the year before.

(Undated-jm)- Several FFA Chapters were recognized at the state FFA Convention in Springfield.  WPXN’s Dan Mushrush has the story…

(Buckley-jm) – Beginning today I-57 at the Buckley interchange will be closed for two consecutive nights from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. The closure is necessary for the demolition of the south half of the Iroquois County Highway 9 bridge. Traffic will be detoured off and onto I-57 using the exit and entrance ramps at CH 9. CH 9 will be open to one lane in each direction on the north half of the bridge and traffic at the intersections will be controlled by flaggers.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign police are asking for information after shots were fired near Eureka and 5th Streets by Douglas park, just after 4:30 PM Saturday afternoon. They say nobody was hurt, and there has not been any reported property damage.

(Rantoul–jc)  We are halfway through the month of June and summer starts next week. Economic development continues to be a positive force in the village of Rantoul. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says a new Busey Bank, a new hotel, Culvers and more are making Rantoul their home..

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Urbana-jm) – Champaign County government leaders are getting ready for a big change. After decades at the Brookens Administrative Center in Urbana, their offices are moving into a new home. The Brookens Administrative Center has been home to all things concerning Champaign County government since the late 90s. That’s when the county bought the old junior high building — but that’s set to change by early next year. They bought the building for $2 million. It’s currently undergoing $20 million-worth of renovations.

(Undated-jm) – Severe thunderstorms ripped through the area last night leaving behind a path of destruction. Gibson City and Elliott were among the hardest hit areas. Damage was also reported in several towns in the area. In Gibson City,  street flooding and downed trees were reported. The 4 way stop sign in Gibson City also had issues during the storm.  Some cosmetic damage was reported at the Harvest Moon Twin Drive Inn. They will be open for movies tonight. In Paxton, reports of downed  trees and tree limbs. In Gifford, a House fire during the weather saw area fire departments called in to help with the blaze. Other area towns also reported some tree damage and some flooded streets. 

(Kansas-jm) – Former University of Illinois basketball star Terrance Shannon Jr. was found not guilty of rape in Kansas. Shannon was charged in December following an alleged incident at a bar in September. He was suspended from the team before he sued the U of I to be reinstated. Shannon, who attended Lincoln Park High School, will be entering the NBA draft.

(Springfield-jm) – It’s been just over a week since Governor J-B Pritzker signed the largest budget in the state’s history. Republicans continue to criticize the budget which increases spending in the migrant crisis and includes nearly a billion dollars in tax increases. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Senate left Springfield last month without passing a bill to address the rise of deepfake images and AI-generated nude photos of students. House Democrats and Republicans believe the Illinois school code should be amended to include sexually explicit digital depictions of students under the definition of cyberbullying. House Bill 299 passed unanimously out of the House late last month. The Senate could vote on the legislation during the veto session this fall.

(Springfield-jm) – A legislative panel is considering Governor J-B Pritzker’s plan to shutter the Stateville Correctional Center near Joliet, as well as a women’s prison in Lincoln. Capitol News Illinois reports the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability, also known as COGFA, will vote on an advisory recommendation on the plan. The commission is holding public hearings this week. Jennifer Vollen-Katz is director of the prison watchdog John Howard Association. She says prisons need to evolve and cannot be the economic engines they’ve been in the past…

John Howard Association Director Jennifer Vollen Katz. The union representing prison employees says the governor’s plan could cost hundreds of employees their jobs if it is mishandled. COGFA could vote on the plan as early as today in Springfield.

(Iroquois County-jm) – After a Special meeting of the Policy & Procedure committee this week, Iroquois County officials are suggesting a change in leadership at the Iroquois County Public Health Department. The recommended termination of Eric Ceci’s employment will be forwarded to the county's Board of Health, which oversees the health department. The Board of Health isn't scheduled to meet again until July 1.

(Melvin–jc)  The Ford County Fair starts June 23rd. There are lots of food options too. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the tasty details…

(Washington-jm) – The USDA’s latest lowering of last year’s Brazil soybean production forecast led to changes in the June global supply and demand estimate. Rod Bain reports…

(Springfield-jm) – A plan to protect certified pathologists from legal action is heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk. The bill requires counties to indemnify and hold harmless the medical professionals responsible for conducting autopsies. Sponsors and advocates said this would be a major change, as Cook County is the only county in Illinois that currently provides this protection. Advocates say the legislation could help address the drastic shortage of forensic pathologists in Illinois, since there are only three working south of I-80. The three professionals travel across large sections of the state to conduct autopsies for local coroners.

(Undated-jm)-Several area FFA members were recognized at the State FFA convention in Springfield.  WPXN’s Dan Mushrush has the details…

(Springfield-jm) – A lawmaker blaming climate change for the flooding in the state created legislation that will mandate landlords inform prospective tenants if their property is in a high-risk flood zone. Senate Bill 2601 is on the governor's desk awaiting further action. State Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid, the bill’s sponsor, said a flood can be financially devastating and that this legislation will protect working families. Other opponents called the measure a “rules for thee but not for me” law for excluding the Illinois Department of Natural Resources from having to notify tenants with agriculture leases about flooding risks was signed by the governor.

(Sibley–dm)-The 20th annual Sibley Burr Oaks Area Tractor Drive for Cancer is scheduled for July 6th.  Event organizer Russ Tjarks tells us the route the tractors will be taking this year.

Sibley Burr Oaks Area Tractor Drive for Cancer organizer Russ Tjarks.  If you want more information on the tractor drive, you can call 217-249-2377

(Urbana-jm) – Several University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign students are riding their bikes across the country for a good cause. The Illini 4,000 are riding around 4,800 miles from New York to California to raise awareness for cancer research. The Illini 4,000 are expected to finish their ride around August 11th by crossing the Golden Gate Bridge in California.

(Rankin–dm)- As part of Rankin’s Independence Day Celebration, the Rankin Lions Club will host the 25th annual truck and tractor pull at Centennial Park on Friday June 28th.  Tractor pull track announcer Tom Theesfield has information on the different classes that will be pulling.

Rankin tractor pull track announcer Tom Theesfield.  If you would like more information about the tractor pull, you can contact Shane Diskin at 217-304-1920.

(Washington-jm) – Consumer meat prices are continuing to rise. Gary Crawford reports…

WPXN News Notes…

Onarga Townwide garage sales take place June 14th and 15th.

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold their foodmobile on Friday, June 14th from 9-10 am at the Fountain Valley Mobile Home park in Rantoul and from 10:30-11 am at the Ludlow Community Center.

The 2024 Buckley Fun Day is set for Saturday, June 15th. The day begins with the Ladies Aid Bake Sale at 9, tractor show and vendor market from 10-2, live music 10:30-1, inflatables 10:30-1:30, kids games and golfing into the lake 10:30-2:30, 11-11:30 golf cart parade, food trucks 11-4, tractor parade 1-1:30, bingo and dunk donnie 1:30-2:30, bossie bingo at 2, kids tractor pull 3:30 and the duck race at 4:17.

Paxton IGA will hold their cookout benefiting Hometown Heroes on Saturday, June 15th from 10-2.

(Springfield-jm) – The $750 million in tax increases to fund Illinois’ largest spending plan in state history is now in place. But so is a measure increasing the state’s debt by $8 billion while giving schools more taxing authority. State Rep. Tom Weber, said House Bill 4582 not only puts taxpayers $8 billion in more debt, it also allows local school boards to increase property taxes without a referendum. The bill synopsis states “beginning September 1, 2024, no referendum shall be required to build or purchase a building for school classroom or instructional purposes if, prior to the building or purchase of the building, the board determines, by resolution, that the building or purchase will result in an increase in pre-kindergarten or kindergarten classroom space in the district.”

(Springfield-jm) – A new survey shows small business rent delinquency numbers have reached a three-year high. Alignable’s latest rent and revenue report shows 46% of small business owners couldn't afford to pay their May rent in full and on time. That is the highest number since the pandemic. Researcher Chuck Casto said a couple economic conditions are to blame including high interest rates and the effects of inflation. Casto added that soaring rent costs are also to blame, with 58% of small business owners saying their rent has increased during the past six months. Small business owners said supply costs are skyrocketing, with 89% saying supply costs are higher now than this time last year. In Illinois, 40% of small businesses couldn't pay their rent on time or in full in May, an increase of 11% from the month before. That is the 7th highest percentage in the country. 

(Springfield-jm) – A controversial piece of legislation that would impact voting in the state has been ruled unconstitutional. The General Assembly quickly passed what they called an ethics law that would have banned the process of slating. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City says the legislation was nothing more than a power grab by the Democrats…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Danville-jm) – VA Illiana Health Care System and multiple Veteran organizations have partnered to increase access to dignified American flag retirement services. They are expanding the network of American flag retirement boxes, with a new box in Danville officially opening on Flag Day, June 14. The Danville box is the second to come online, joining the existing flag retirement box at Peoria’s Bob Michel VA Clinic.

(Rantoul–jc)  Rantoul Village leaders gave the go-ahead to enhancing the bike-walk paths in the village. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says additions to the bike-walk-paths in town continue to make more of Rantoul accessible…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Champaign-jm) – The Illinois Commerce Commission will hold a public hearing in Champaign on Illinois American Water’s rate increase. The hearing will take place July 23rd at 7pm at the Champaign Public Library. The public is invited to attend and provide the commission with their feedback.

(Rankin–dm)-The Rankin Lions Club will host their 25th annual truck and tractor pull on Friday, June 28th at Centennial Park.  Track announcer Tom Theesfield has some information on the local classes.

Tractor pull track announcer Tom Theesfield  if you want more information about the tractor pull you can call Shane Diskin at 217-302-1920

(Springfield-jm) – Only about 35% of students between third and eighth grade scored proficient in reading, according to data from the 2023 Illinois Assessment of Readiness. Some education advocates said that there are multiple reasons why scores could be this low, including COVID-19 and the way students are taught reading and reading comprehension. Although this is up about 5% from 2022, some educators and advocates want to see a change.

(Rantoul–jc)  Several new businesses are coming to Rantoul’s west side. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says a new ice cream shoppe is open, a nails salon and Culvers are coming soon…

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Springfield-jm) – A plan heading to Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could require school districts to develop cardiac emergency response plans. Sponsors and advocates say Illinois saw 109 cardiac events involving students under 18 during 2022 alone. The legislation requires school districts to work with local paramedics to create an evidence-based plan to use AEDs in case of a cardiac event. Schools would be required to identify where AEDs are located on the property and include guidelines for how to use the equipment properly. Coaches and other school staff could also be trained on using AEDs.

(The Center Square) – Canada is Illinois’ largest trading partner and Illinois Governor  J.B. Pritzker is hoping to trade some knowledge about alternative energy technologies.  Pritzker continued his trade mission in Canada this week. The governor joined Ontario Premier Doug Ford to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between the two governments. Governor Pritzkers says the future could hold many new business ventures for the two areas of North America…

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker

(Urbana-jm) – The City of Urbana is marking the groundbreaking of a new fire station. The City of Urbana, Urbana Fire Department, and the Fire Station Project Team held a ceremony Wednesday at 1205 West Bradley Avenue. The new, state-of-the art fire stations have been designed with firefighter health and wellness at the forefront.

(Rantoul–jc)  All members of the Rantoul Paxton VFW would like to thank those who stopped by the corners of route 136 and route 45 in Rantoul and donated to the local service group. They are looking for  more people  to join the local Veterans of Foreign Wars post. Rantoul Paxton V-F-W Post 67-50 Spokesperson Joe Manka invites those eligible to join…

Rantoul V-F-W Post 67-50 spokesperson Joe Manka. Anyone wanting to donate dollars to the local post may do so, by sending the donation to Rantoul V-F-W Post 67-50, 675 North Ohio Street, Rantoul.

(Undated-jm) – Three area groups are receiving funding from the state through the Back 2 Business program. The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce is receiving nearly $27,000. The Iroquois Economic Development Association is receiving $3,344. Vermilion Advantage is receiving $50,000.

(Washington-jm) – The USDA’s latest winter wheat production forecast reveals what could be a significant harvest for the 2024 crop. Rod Bain reports…

WPXN News Notes…

Onarga Townwide garage sales take place June 14th and 15th.

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold their foodmobile on Friday, June 14th from 9-10 am at the Fountain Valley Mobile Home park in Rantoul and from 10:30-11 am at the Ludlow Community Center.

The 2024 Buckley Fun Day is set for Saturday, June 15th.

Paxton IGA will hold their cookout benefiting Hometown Heroes on Saturday, June 15th from 10-2.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is reminding parents and caregivers of the importance of always supervising children when they are in or near water to avoid the tragedy of accidental drowning deaths. In 2023, 20 Illinois children lost their lives to accidental drowning, including eight in pools, four in lakes and two in ponds. Thirteen of the children were ages 5 and younger; including six of the children who drowned in pools.

(Springfield-jm) – Collectible currency, coins, and jewelry are among the hundreds of unclaimed property items to be auctioned online from June 17 through June 21 through the Illinois Treasurer’s office. A total of 100 lots will be auctioned, with each lot consisting of a single item or multiple items.

(Washington-jm) – Crop growers have until mid-July to report acreage planted this year at their local Farm Service Agency office, but why is it important? Rod Bain reports…

(Chicago-jm) – The longtime chief of staff for former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan reported to federal prison Tuesday. Last year, a jury found 69-year-old Tim Mapes guilty of lying to a federal grand jury when answering questions about an investigation into Madigan and others. He was sentenced to 30 months in prison. Madigan is scheduled to go on trial in October on bribery and racketeering charges.

(Springfield–jc) – Illinois House bill 50-0h-5 is now on its way to the Governor’s Desk. The measure is a tax incentive program for electric vehicle battery manufacturer Gotion and also quantum computing companies and Electric vehicle companies and semiconductor manufacturers. State Representative C-D Davidsmeyer, Republican of Murrayville says it's giving huge dollars being paid for by the small businesses of Illinois…

Illinois State Representative C-D Davidsmeyer- Republican of Murraysville

Illinois State Representative Democrat Dave Vella of Loves Park says the tax credits will create jobs…

Illinois State Representative Democrat Dave Vella of Loves Park. The governor is expected to sign the bill into law. 

(Paxton–jc)  Due to some vandalism concerns, Paxton city leaders have set new hours for city parks. City parks in Paxton will be open from 5am until 9pm each day. The new hours start today. 

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign Fire Department responded to a fire in a school in the 2500 block of Galen Dr., Tuesday at 2:35 p.m.  Fire crews were able to quickly get the fire under control.  Firefighters responded to a report from an occupant of a fire initially believed to be contained to a bathroom vent fan.  Once on the scene, fire crews reported staff had safely evacuated all the students and went inside to investigate.  Firefighters found the fire had extended beyond the bathroom vent fan and deployed multiple hose lines to extinguish the fire. The cause of this fire was accidental and attributed to the failure of a bathroom vent fan.

(Paxton–jc) Paxton city leaders along with members with the Paxton Mainstreet Group and Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce continue to look at the economic development progress in the city to keep momentum going for its businesses. Paxton Mainstreet Group Executive Director Donna Pepper says Paxton is a destination for a great meal to great shopping..

Paxton Mainstreet Group Executive Director Donna Pepper. 

(Mahomet–jc)  – A Transformer caught fire in Mahomet on Tuesday. The location was near Tin Cup park. Fire crews were called to the scene and helped at the scene. No word on any extensive power outages was given. 

(Urbana-jm) – The Urbana Police Department and Champaign County Crime Stoppers are asking for help from the public in solving a shots fired incident that happened last month. The shooting happened the night of May 18 in the area of Florida Avenue and Lincolnwood Drive. Officials said that around 9:12 p.m., five people walking at that location saw a car slowly turn toward them. At least two people from the group pulled out guns and fired at the car, which fled the scene; the suspects also left the scene on foot. No injuries were reported.

(Rantoul–jc)  It started  at  6 this morning  and runs through 6 tonight. It is a fundraiser for the Rantoul Paxton V F W Post 67-50. Volunteers from the service organization will be at the corners of route 136 and Route 45 in Rantoul gathering donations for daily operation support. Rantoul Paxton V-F-W Post 67-50 spokesperson Joe Manka  

Rantoul Paxton V F W Post 67-50 Spokesperson Joe Manka

WPXN will be there with Becky Puetz this morning in the 8am and 9am hours.

(Paxton–jc)The Paxton Park District Pool is set to open today.  The first adult swim is set for Noon until 1pm and public swim begins at 1 this afternoon.

(Springfield-jm) – No student in Illinois would be able to receive physical punishment like slapping or paddling if the governor signs a bill on his desk. A bill amending Illinois’s School Code would ban all school personnel, including ones in non-public schools, from administering corporal punishment on students passed both chambers of the legislature last month. Corporal punishment is defined as “a discipline method in which a person deliberately inflicts pain upon a student in response to the student’s unacceptable behavior or inappropriate language, with an aim to halt an offense, prevent its recurrence, or set an example for others.” The bill received bipartisan support, as it passed the House 79-26 and the Senate 51-8.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois House failed to pass a plan to enhance the quality of public drinking water before session ended last month. This proposal could require the Illinois Department of Public Health to work with the Pollution Control Board to update drinking water standards to establish new limits on maximum levels of forever chemicals. Senate Bill 727 also calls for the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to convene a group of environmental stakeholders within a year to identify any other water contaminants or chemicals that should be regulated by the state.

(Washington-jm) – There are at least a couple of positive signs in USDA's latest ag. trade update. Gary Crawford reports…

(Canada-jm) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker delivered the keynote address Tuesday at the US-Canada Summit in Toronto. Before the address, he held a public memorandum of understanding signing with Ontario Premier Doug Ford. Pritzker's office said the MOU focuses on collaborating to attract trade opportunities with a focus on manufacturing, energy, agriculture and automotive industries.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker signed the state’s budget last week. The budget is a new record for the state. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City talks about the budget…

Senator Bennett goes on to say the budget leaves several important groups of people behind while spending millions on the migrant crisis in Chicago and adding a billion dollars in new taxes…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City. The state of Illinois has a 53 and one half Billion dollar budget for the next year. The budget has nearly one billion dollars in new taxes. 

(Champaign–dm)- Driving, walking up stairs and pregnancy are normal parts of life. But they’re ones that can bring terrible pain in your sacroiliac (sack-row-ILL-ee-ack) joint, where your back and hip meet. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has tips to back pain free.

Exercising and eating healthy are ways to prevent this type of pain. If stairs cause pain, take the elevator. If you drive often, avoid sudden braking, have a comfy seat and take breaks.

(Rantoul-jm) – A man from Rantoul will spend the next 21 years in federal prison after he was convicted of selling meth. Prosecutors said Artez Johnson was found guilty of possession of meth with intent to distribute by a jury last August. U.S. District Judge Collin Bruce sentenced Johnson to 21 years in prison and seven years of parole for the crime. Evidence presented during the trial showed that in February 2023, Johnson was pulled over in Rantoul and the officer noticed a small bag of suspected cocaine on the driver’s seat. A subsequent search of the car found three Ziploc bags of meth in the center console, weighing 330 grams or seven-tenths of a pound.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois gun owners continue to await relief from the state’s gun and magazine ban as the U.S. Supreme Court again refrained from announcing whether it would take up the legal challenges. On preliminary issues, cases out of the Southern and Northern District federal courts were appealed to the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals last year. The appeals court said the state had a likelihood of succeeding on the merits. Several plaintiffs groups then asked for the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene on those preliminary issues. Upon those requests for consideration, the U.S. Supreme Court in April put several Illinois challenges into conference with the first possible conference date for a decision being mid-May, but no decision was released.  On Monday’s release of the order list, cases challenging Illinois’ gun ban on preliminary grounds were not included, meaning they could come up again in another conference this Thursday with a new order list out June 17.

(Washington-jm) – The nation's corn crop still looks very good. Gary Crawford reports…

(Champaign-jm) – A shoe store with 83 years of legacy in Central Illinois will be closing soon. Mosser’s Shoes has been in Central Illinois for 83 years, with stores in Danville, Springfield and Champaign. Champaign has been home to a Mosser’s location for 48 years, and it is currently located near Marketplace Shopping Center. The owners are expecting to be closed by early fall.

(urbana–jc) – Results from a survey on the number of skilled care beds in Champaign County will be given to the County board. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Paxton–jc) The First Friday Free Concerts in downtown Paxton have been very successful. The crowds continue to grow  and a busy downtown before, during and after the concerts. Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper says the concerts are designed to bring people to the city and experience what Paxton has to offer…

Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper. The next First Friday concert is set for Friday July 5th, 7pm, at Veteran’s Square in downtown Paxton.

(Danville-jm) – State Representative Brandun Schweizer has announced his Summer Tour dates for the month of June. Schweizer will be at the Rantoul Exchange Club meeting Wednesday at 11:45 and Tilton village board meeting on the 20th at pm.

(Champaign–dm) June is headache and migraine awareness month. When do they warrant a trip to the doctor? Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare tells you.

Frequent headaches are a red flag. Also, sudden, severe headaches can be a sign of a stroke. Look up the acronym BEFAST to memorize stroke symptoms

(Undated-jm) – There are a trio of meetings around the area tonight. At 6 in Rantoul, village leaders are expected to approve a resolution for the Veterans Parkway shared use path and approve the purchase of transformers and voltage regulators. At 7 in Paxton, city council members will be asked to approve a collective bargaining agreement with the fraternal order of police, approve the purchase of a 2024 Dodge Durango police squad and approve a contract to inspect the lights at Nelson Field. Also at 7 tonight down in St. Joseph, village leaders are expected to approve a contract for the Elm and Monroe Street sanitary sewer replacement project.

(Washington-jm) – A company set to make electric vehicle batteries in Illinois has been accused of connections to slave labor in China. U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood and members of the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security warning about Gotion's supply chain. Gov. JB Pritzker and top Illinois Democratic leaders welcomed Gotion to Manteno last September, as the Chinese company started to build a massive $2 billion plant in Kankakee County. Gotion's total incentive package from the state is valued at $536 million, but the company is eligible to receive tax benefits totaling $213 million over 30 years.

(Washington-jm) – It's a strong start this year for soybeans. Gary Crawford reports…

(Watseka-jm) – Iroquois Memorial Hospice is a 5 star agency according to Medicare’s family and caregiver survey ratings located on Medicare.gov care and compare website. Not only did IMH Hospice receive the top score, it's recognized as the only agency in the area that received a 5 star rating.  IMH Hospice scored above the national and state averages in every care category assessed.

(Rantoul–jc)  If you see veterans and volunteers at the corner of Routes 136 and 45 on Wednesday, there is a good reason. Members of the Rantoul Paxton V-F-W 67-50 will be looking for donations to help the local V-F-W with operating funds. Rantoul Paxton V-F-W Spokesperson Joe Manka says you will see a member, flags and more on Wednesday from 6am to 6pm…

Rantoul Paxton V-F-W Spokesperson Joe Manka. WPXN will be there with Becky Puetz to help during her show on Wednesday.

(Watseka-jm) – State Representative Jason Bunting is thanking Watseka first responders for their quick response after a deer got stuck in his office. According to Bunting, the deer jumped and broke through a window at the building, before getting stuck inside. Watseka EMS, Fire and Police Departments all responded to the scene. Bunting said he is very thankful everyone ended up being okay and that only a little bit of damage was done.

(Rankin–dm)- Rankin’s Independence Day Celebration will take place on Friday, June 28th and Saturday, June 29th. Event spokesperson Diana Fanning tells about Friday’s events

Event spokesperson Diana Fanning.  All activities take place in Centennial Park in Rankin.

(Springfield-jm) – The legislature is ready to send a bill to Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker that removes the mandate that the Department of Children and Family Services must report newborn babies’ positive toxicology screens to law enforcement. Senate Bill 3136 passed the Illinois General Assembly and will, according to opponents, disincentivize drug addicts from getting clean because it removes punitive provisions that take away birth mothers’ parental rights upon a newborn baby’s toxicology screen coming back positive. State Sen. Steve McClure, said the bill will actually deter drug addicts from seeking treatment. Opponents say allowing drug addicted mothers, who give birth to babies whose toxicology screens come back positive, to maintain their parental rights is not only dangerous but subverts accountability. The bill’s sponsor, state Sen. Cristina Castro introduced the legislation because numerous studies have shown women who suffer from substance abuse avoid care based on concerns that clinicians will report them to the authorities.

(Washington-jm) – New USDA supply and demand crop forecasts are coming soon. Gary Crawford reports…

(East Lynn-jm) – The National Weather Service has determined an EF-1 tornado touched down 3 miles south of East Lynn Wednesday morning when the line of storms moved through. The weather service along with the Vermilion County Emergency Management Agency says 7 grain bins along with 2 power poles along with the roof of an outbuilding were damaged. The tornado occurred just before 8:30 am and was on the ground for 1.3 miles and had estimated winds of 95 mph.

(Springfield–jc)  With a super majority in both the Illinois House and Illinois Senate and also a same party governor, Democrats in Illinois have passed the largest state budget in Illinois history. The budget is balanced with the help of over 1 Billion dollars in new taxes. Locally, Republican 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emmington says it’s the tax payers in Illinois the burden of the budget…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emmington. Illinois Governor J B Pritzker signed the budget this past Wednesday.

(Hoopeston–jc)  City leaders in the Vermilion County town of Hoopeston continue to raise and renovate properties in the city. City of Hoopeston officials are looking for bids for the demolition of a property at 5-11 West Main Street. Bid packets are available at Hoopeston city hall. The bids will be opened  at 10am on Friday June 28th. 

(Springfield–jc)  The Illinois F F A State convention is set to start this week in Springfield. One local chapter has 15 state degrees in record-keeping. Cissna Park F FA Advisor Jeff Clifton says that is the largest number of any chapter in the state of Illinois to receive 15 awards…

Cissna Park F F A Advisor Jeff Clifton. The State of Illinois F F A convention runs June 11th through the 13th in Springfield. 

(Undated-jm) – Two area Red Lobster locations could close as part of the company's bankruptcy plans. The Red Lobster in Champaign as well as Bourbonnais are on the list of 100 restaurants the company is looking at closing. Earlier this year, the Danville location abruptly closed. It's unknown if or when the Champaign and Bourbonnais locations could close.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is touting what he calls major business expansion during his tenure, but not everyone agrees. According to the governor, his administration has made the state of Illinois better for business. The governor told the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce that billions of dollars in new business investments came into the state in 2023. Former Republican primary gubernatorial candidate Jeanne Ives said Pritzker’s numbers are a product of President Joe Biden’s inflation. In addition, the Tax Foundation reports that Illinois imposes the second-highest business income tax of any state in the nation. In his address to the Chicagoland Chamber, Pritzker said his administration has gotten the state’s fiscal house in order. Ives said the governor is telling half-truths. The Illinois Policy Institute has reported that the new budget includes more than $1 billion in tax hikes.

(Washington-jm) – President Biden has proclaimed June as National Homeowners Month. Gary Crawford reports…

(Peoria-jm) – OSF HealthCare announced the passing of their system president on Sunday. Sister Diane Marie McGrew, died peacefully early Sunday morning after a five-year battle against ovarian and uterine cancers, officials shared. She entered OSF HealthCare’s foundation congregation, The Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis, in 1988. She was later elected into their Governing Board as Treasurer General in 2000. Sister Diane Marie worked within OSF HealthCare in several capacities until becoming president in 2006. She was 57 years old.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J-B Pritzker signed the state’s new budget last week. One of the issues 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City says is a lack of funding for school maintenance. Senator Bennett says students are left behind…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Vermilion County-jm) – Expanding Broadband access to all parts of Vermilion County is the goal of some local groups that feel there is much to gain.  Mike Marron, CEO of Vermilion Advantage, told members of the County Board’s Finance and Personnel Committee that there are parts of the county where accessibility to Broadband is “pretty lean”. University of Illinois Extension, Vermilion County Farm Bureau, and Vermilion Advantage are some of the key groups continuing to explore ways to expand Broadband access across all of Vermilion County.

(Sibley–dm)-The 20th annual Sibley Burr Oaks Area Tractor Drive for Cancer is scheduled for July 6th. Sibley Burr Oaks Area Tractor Drive  Event organizer Russ Tjarks tells us the route the tractors will be taking this year…

Sibley Burr Oaks Area Tractor Drive for Cancer organizer Russ Tjarks.  If you want more information on the tractor drive, you may call Russ at 217-249-2377.

(Undated-jm) – There are several meetings around the area tonight. The Rantoul Township High School Board meets tonight at 6 where they will discuss their Title 1 Plan as well as the consolidated district plan and approve an agreement with the Rantoul Police Department on a school resource officer. At 7 tonight in Paxton the Ford County Board is expected to approve a homestead agreement. Also tonight at 7 in Gibson City leaders there will consider a facade grant for Mark’s on 1st, amend water and sewer rates and consider annexing 16 acres of property. Up in Iroquois County, Gilman leaders will consider liquor license renewals, approve their appropriation ordinance and discuss the 5th Street sewer project.

WPXN News notes…

The Champaign Urbana Elks will sponsor a free children's orthopedic assessment clinic on Wednesday, June 12th at the OSF Children's Hospital of Illinois Multi-Specialty Clinic in Urbana from 8:30-10:30 am. Appointments are required by calling 1-800-272-0074.

Onarga Townwide garage sales take place June 14th and 15th.

The 2024 Buckley Fun Day is set for Saturday, June 15th. The day begins with the Ladies Aid Bake Sale at 9, tractor show and vendor market from 10-2, live music 10:30-1, inflatables 10:30-1:30, kids games and golfing into the lake 10:30-2:30, 11-11:30 golf cart parade, food trucks 11-4, tractor parade 1-1:30, bingo and dunk donnie 1:30-2:30, bossie bingo at 2, kids tractor pull 3:30 and the duck race at 4:17.

Paxton IGA will hold their cookout benefiting Hometown Heroes on Saturday, June 15th from 10-2.

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold their foodmobile on Friday, June 14th from 9-10 am at the Fountain Valley Mobile Home park in Rantoul and from 10:30-11 am at the Ludlow Community Center.

(Springfield-jm) – A hastily passed state law designed to prevent Republicans from appointing candidates to the ballot after the March primary has been ruled unconstitutional by a Sangamon County judge. The law immediately prohibited local party slating of legislative candidates when no candidate had run in the primary.  But, as Circuit Judge Gail Noll noted, the bill was passed and signed into law after the 75-day post-primary candidate slating process had already begun. The timing, according to the judge, imposed a “severe restriction on the right to vote,” based on Illinois Supreme Court precedent.  The Democrat majority rammed the legislation through the House in one day, forgoing their own House rules. An amendment was filed on Senate Bill 2412 on a Wednesday morning, and it was assigned to the House Executive Committee. A hearing was held shortly thereafter and on Democrat votes, it passed out of committee. Two hours later, the bill was brought forth for a vote on the House floor. It passed with 67 Democrat votes. House Republicans all voted present as a protest vote. State Representative Jason Bunting said these are the types of tactics he is tired of in Springfield…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting of Emington.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign Police were dispatched at 11:28 p.m. on June 5, to a hotel in the 900 block of W. Bloomington Road for a report of a shooting with injuries. Upon arrival, officers located a 34-year-old male victim from Tolono with a potentially life-threatening gunshot wound to the chest. He remains hospitalized in stable condition. The initial investigation indicates that the victim was visiting an acquaintance at the hotel when an unidentified subject approached and robbed him and another guest of their belongings. During the robbery, a shot was fired, and the man was struck. The robber then fled the area.

(Paxton–Jc)  The second First Friday Free Concert is set for Veterans Square in downtown Paxton tonight. Paxton Mainstreet Group Executive Director Donna Pepper says the concert is free to attend, food is available starting at 6 tonight and the band “Love Signs” performs live at 7pm…

Paxton Mainstreet Group Executive Director Donna Pepper. It’s also a great opportunity to take pictures at the I-Luv-Paxton sign at Veterans Square.

(Crestwood–jc)  –A child welfare caseworker found guilty of mishandling the case of a Crystal Lake boy killed by his parents has been sentenced to prison. A judge handed down a sentence of six months in prison, 30 months probation and 200 hours of community service to Carlos Acosta. The 58-year-old former DCFS worker was accused of not taking proper precautions to protect 5-year-old AJ Freund, despite evidence of abuse and neglect by his parents. The parents eventually pleaded guilty to the boy’s 2019 murder

(Vermilion County-jm) – Nature and historical sites in Vermilion County are giving people a glimpse into the past and a look at the present in their parks this summer. The Vermilion County Conservation District will be opening the first Sunday of every month to visitors at sites like the Pioneer Homestead Cabin and Nature Center of Forest Glen Preserve. Kennekuk County Park is another spot visitors can go to.

(Melvin–jc)  The 20-24 Knight for Christ fundraiser to benefit Christian education in East Central Illinois at Buckley based Christ Lutheran High School is set for Saturday August 24th. The 20th annual event features a silent auction, live auction, lots of food and fellowship, and a chance to win a 20-24 street ready golf cart. Knight for Christ fundraiser event spokesperson Larry Abbe talks about ticket availability for the golf cart…

Knight for Christ Fundraiser Event Spokesperson Larry Abbe. Tickets for the event are also available on line or contacting the school in Buckley. 

(The Center Square) – Some libraries in underserved areas of Illinois will be able to make technology upgrades as a result of new grant funding from state taxpayers.   The Illinois Secretary of State’s Office is awarding $2 million in grants to 113 libraries. To qualify for the grant funding, communities must be eligible for equalization aid grant funding as a result of a low tax base and a high poverty rate. 

(Springfield-jm) – Legislation that loosens restrictions on electric scooters is headed to the governor for his signature. Low-speed electric scooters would no longer be defined as a motor vehicle. Josh Witkowski from Modern Mobility said a scooter that travels less than 10 miles per hour should not have the same classification as a motor vehicle. Senate Bill 1960 also states that low-speed electric scooters can only be used in municipalities or park districts if authorized, and that they cannot be operated on highways with a speed limit over 35 mph.

(The Center Square) – A measure prohibiting employers from holding so-called captive audience meetings for their employees is ready to be sent to Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.  The Teamsters union urged Pritzker to sign Senate Bill 3649, saying the bill would ban mandatory attendance to employer-sponsored presentations filled with what they said would be anti-union propaganda designed to discourage organization efforts. 

(Washington-jm) – The USDA is getting ready for the spring acreage report. USDA Outlook Board Chairman Mark Jekanowski says USDA is collecting data for its big acreage report…

(Urbana-jm) – Funeral services for the Champaign County Correctional Officer who was killed in a vehicle crash have been arranged. Jennie Ashley, 47, passed away unexpectedly from a traffic accident on June 3 and was off duty at the time. Officials say the funeral will be on June 10, at Johnson Funeral Home, 1110 N. 4th Street, Effingham. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a First Responder walk-thru at 1 p.m.

(The Center Square) – Despite being ignored by the Illinois General Assembly during the recently completed legislative session, the Chicago Bears are not letting up on their quest to get public funding for a new stadium.  The nearly $5 billion proposal to build a lakefront stadium complex along Lake Michigan calls for $2 billion in public money from the city of Chicago and the state. State lawmakers never took up the issue before adjourning the latest legislative session. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has said Illinois needs to see more benefit for taxpayers before using public money.

(Cissna Park–jc) One local community is set to place a new mural in its downtown this month. The Cissna Park Development Board approved a new mural on Sheila Levitt’s building in downtown Cissna Park to welcome shoppers and visitors to the southern Iroquois County Community. Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer says this is the first of several murals planned for the town…

Cissna Park Development Board Spokesperson Rachael Bauer. The board gave the go ahead for the project earlier today and the project manager hired is Nate Grice of Paxton.

(Champaign-jm) – The “One Summer Day” fundraiser for C-U at Home is back this year and for more than one day. The One Summer Day fundraiser is a collection of rummage sales across the Champaign area, with a portion or all of the proceeds going towards C-U at Home to help them provide aid to the homeless. C-U at Home has a fundraising goal between $15,000-$25,000. Last year they were able to raise $5,000.

(Paxton–jc)  When is the best time to water your tomatoes. Paxton Hardware and Rentals Scott Allen and Ropps Flower Factory owner Roger Cramer agree, the best time to water tomatoes is in the early morning hours…

Paxton Hardware & Rental owner Scott Allen with and Ropps Flower Factory Owner Roger Cramer

(Undated–jc)  –The Illinois Milk Producers Association has donated more than 17,000 pounds of milk, including lactose-free, between three local food banks. They include the Northern Illinois Food Bank, the Central Illinois Foodbank and the Eastern Illinois Foodbank to coincide with June being National Dairy Month.

Since 2023, the association has donated more than 27,000 pounds of milk to local food banks for a combined 54,720 servings.

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

Paxton Main Street will hold their 1st Fridays concert series tonight from 7-9 pm at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton with the band Love Sign performing.  The concessions stands at the event open at 6pm

Paxton town wide garage sales will take place today and tomorrow. Maps will be available at both Caseys and Village Pantry.

The Elliott Amvets will hold a family dinner night tonight from 5-7 pm. Dinner includes your choice of chicken, fish or shrimp for $15.

Paxton IGA will hold their cookout benefiting St. Johns PTO on Saturday from 10-2.

The 71st annual Buckley and Buckley Loda High School Alumni Banquet will take place on Saturday at the 103 East in Buckley. Social hour begins at 5 with dinner beginning at 6. 

The largest taxpayer spending plan in Illinois state history was signed Wednesday.

Approved by the House last week, and the Senate the week before that, the budget spends $53.1 billion in state funds. That’s 32% higher than when Gov. J.B. Pritzker first took office in 2019. Add federal tax dollars and other state funds, the fiscal year 2025 plan spends $125 billion. Before signing the budget Wednesday, Pritzker heralded the budget…

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker

(Springfield-jm) – A Sangamon County Circuit Court judge made a temporary injunction permanent, finding that enforcing a recently signed law that eliminates “slating” for General Assembly races in the 2024 election is unconstitutional. Last month, the Illinois General Assembly gutted and replaced a child welfare bill with changes to election law. They prohibited the slating of candidates for the November general election ballot if that candidate did not run in the March primary. Within three days of the idea surfacing and passing both chambers, Gov. J.B. Pritzker enacted the measure. Candidates then sued and a Sangamon County judge issued a preliminary injunction pending final judgment. A hearing in the case was held Monday, the same day candidates had a deadline to file petitions to be slated for the November ballot. Wednesday, final judgment was issued for the plaintiffs.

(Springfield-jm) – Changes are coming to the prisoner review board after two of the three members resigned following a controversial decision. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City talks about the legislation that was passed in the final days of the spring session…

Senator Bennett goes on to say he hopes these reforms will do several things for the prisoner review board in the future…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Moline-jm) – John Deere is laying off more than 120 workers at its plant in Moline. The indefinite layoffs are effective June 28. The company said in a statement that it is also buying land in Mexico for a new plant that will take some of the work that is being done in Dubuque. The agricultural giant also announced layoffs at three other Iowa locations.

(Paxton–jc)  The city of Paxton is moving up the list on spending with Experience Champaign Urbana Statistics released this month show that Paxton as the third largest region for spending in the E-C-U marketplace. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says that is great news for the city and residents…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Urbana-jm) – A Champaign man will spend the next three years in prison for stalking a University of Illinois student, one of the latest incidents in a pattern of behavior of stalking and apartment break-ins. Edward Bennett, 29, pleaded guilty in March to one count of stalking and one count of criminal trespass to a residence. Judge Roger Webber sentenced Bennett to prison and a consecutive two-year probation sentence for each respective crime. An investigation revealed more than 16 incidents between September of 2021 and August of 2023 where women reported incidents of stalking behavior and unwanted contact with Bennett. Bennett was issued multiple no-trespassing notices for U of I property, but that didn’t stop him from returning and even obtaining a student ID card using a false date of birth, which gave him access to university buildings.

(Washington-jm) – Acreage enrollment is taking place now through June 29th for USDA's Grassland Conservation Reserve Program. Rod Bain reports…

(Urbana–jc)  A large traffic jam happened along Interstate 74 in the west bound lanes in Urbana Wednesday. A semi truck slid off the roadway and caused the traffic back up. No one was reported injured in the mishap, but motorists along I-74 in the area of mile marker 186 were caught in the back up. The scene was reported cleared at 1pm. Police remind motorists that I-74 in the Urbana-Champaign area is a construction zone and to slow down and be extra careful.

(Undated–jc)  Today is the 80 anniversary of the D-Day invasion in Normandy, France during World War 2. A ceremony was held at the site this morning. Locally, what does D-Day mean to those who have served or are serving. Buckley resident and past State Commander of the American Legion and National Committee Council Member Wayne Wagner says this was pivotal for American freedom…

 Wagner adds this was a “freedom” effort by the United States and other countries..

 Buckley resident and past State Commander of the American Legion and National Committee Council Member Wayne Wagner 

(Washington-jm) – Senator Dick Durbin has filed a bill he believes will protect Post Office Processing and Distribution Centers across the country from losing some of their services. In a news release from his office, Durbin announced Wednesday he is working with a bipartisan group of senators for a bill they named the Postal Processing Protection Act. This is after more than 50 Processing and Distribution Centers were targeted to shift to Local Processing Centers. The bill would require a study forecasting the consequences of downsizing or closing these facilities. A similar requirement is in place before the USPS closes any storefront post office in the country.

(Springfield-jm) – Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed the Fiscal Year 2025 budget into law Wednesday morning. The budget passed both the Senate and the House last week. Pritzker previously said he was pleased with the budget the morning after it arrived on his desk. Leaders highlighted the fact it was the sixth consecutive balanced budget in a row. The Budget has increased to 53 and one half billion dollars. Some negative reaction to the budget concerning veterans and immigrant funding from 104th District State Representative Brandun Schweitzer of Danville…

104th District State Representative Brandun Schweitzer of Danville. The budget passed along party lines in the Illinois House and Senate in Springfield.

(Savoy-jm) – Plans for a downtown area in Savoy are inching closer and closer to coming to life. The Downtown Development Group launched a survey for the public to share ideas with Savoy officials. Officials hope with the community’s input, the space will better reflect the community’s wishes. After the survey closes, the Downtown Development Group will talk with village leaders over the course of six months. Then officials will have a better idea of when construction could start.

(Sibley–jc) One event that started to honor a family member with cancer is now in its 20th year. The Sibley Burr Oaks tractor drive is set for July 6th. Organizer Russ Tjarks says they continue to raise money for the American Cancer Society…

Sibley Burr Oaks Tractor Drive Organizer Russ Tjarks. To donate money or to participate call Russ at 217-249-2377

(Watseka-jm) – A 30-year-old Danville man faces felony charges in Vermilion County following his arrest in Watseka Tuesday. Delin M. Cotton was in the Iroquois County Jail awaiting extradition to Vermilion County. Iroquois County Sheriff’s Police and the Watseka Police Department assisted the U.S. Marshals Service Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force and the Danville Police Department in the arrest of Cotton. The arrest warrant charges Cotton with 4-counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault with a weapon, aggravated domestic battery, aggravated unlawful restraint and interfering with the reporting of domestic violence.

(Washington-jm) – Many farmers may welcome the new national weather pattern that's on the way. Gary Crawford reports…

(Rantoul–jc)  A new franchise has opened in the village of Rantoul. The Main Street Scoop opened its doors on Wednesday along Route 136 near the Rantoul Sports Complex and Rantoul Walmart. The Main Scoop has area locations in Urbana, Monticello, and Mahomet. They offer a wide variety of ice cream products.

(Undated-jm) – Illinois farmers have been in catch-up mode during planting season after a wet spring. As of mid-May, less than half of the corn and soybean crops had been put in the ground. Mark Schleusener, Illinois State Statistician with the USDA, said statistics show a dry stretch of weather allowed farmers to get some work done. “Corn planting reached 89% finished,” said Schleusener. “That compares to 84% for the five-year average.” This week, 81% of the soybean crop had been planted. That is behind last year but still ahead of the five-year average of 73%.

WPXN News Notes…

The 2024 Bradley Music Fest will take place June 6-9 at Northfield Square Mall. Musical acts performing include Scotty McCreery, Drew Baldridge, Big and Rich, Gretchen Wilson and Hairbangers Ball.

Paxton Main Street will hold their 1st Fridays concert series on Friday, June 7 from 7-9 pm at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton with the band Love Sign performing.  The concessions stands at the event open at 6pm

Paxton townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 7th and Saturday, June 8th. Maps will be available at both Caseys and Village Pantry.

The Elliott Amvets will hold a family dinner night on Friday, June 7th from 5-7 pm. Dinner includes your choice of chicken, fish or shrimp for $15.

Paxton IGA will hold their cookout benefiting St. Johns PTO on Saturday, June 8th from 10-2.

(Springfield-jm) – If Gov. J.B. Pritzker signs the budget and revenue package legislators approved, consumers paying by card may have to swipe to pay for their goods and swipe again to pay the sales tax for those goods. Part of the deal with the Illinois Retail Merchants Association in exchange for a cap on the credit retailers get for collecting and remitting sales taxes is a change to the so-called interchange fee, limiting the fees financial institutions can charge on the sales tax of transactions. What this could mean for consumers is two swipes for a single transaction, one of the purchase of the goods or services subject to interchange and one for the tax or gratuity not subject to interchange.

(Undated–jc)  Bridge safety is a major concern for some leaders in Illinois. WPXN’s Dan Musrush has the story…

(Champaign-jm) – New data from GasBuddy is showing that gas prices in Champaign have gone down in the last week. A survey of 79 gas stations in Champaign found that the average price of gas is $3.51 per gallon, down 11 cents compared to last week. Champaign’s average is down seven cents compared to one month ago and down 10.5 cents compared to one year ago. The drop in gas prices is reflective of a nationwide trend, GasBuddy found. The national average fell six cents in the last week and is relatively close to Champaign’s average: $3.50 per gallon.

(Rantoul–jc) One week from today, the Rantoul-Paxton VFW Post 6750 is hosting a fundraiser at the corners of Route 136 and Route 45 in the village of Rantoul.  Rantoul Paxton V-F-W spokesperson Joe Manka says donations are needed…

Rantoul Paxton V-F-W Spokesperson Joe Manka. Volunteers will be asking for donations starting at 6am on the 12th and running through 6pm. All donations are tax deductible 

(Vermilion County-jm) – The Vermilion County Animal Shelter is closing for the next few days as they manage a parvovirus outbreak amongst their dogs. Parvovirus, or parvo, is a highly contagious virus that attacks dogs’ gastrointestinal systems. It can be spread through contact with contaminated feces or surfaces. Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are particularly vulnerable to the illness, and they can even die from it. People are immune to parvo, but they can still carry it on their clothes or hands. As for dogs, symptoms include a lack of appetite followed by lethargy. Young pups may also experience diarrhea, vomiting and dehydration.

(Gibson City–jc)  Gibson City has a 4th of July Holiday event for music and more. Gibson City Events Spokesperson Susie Tongate says the “Red, White and Tunes’ event is set for Marks on First on Saturday July 6th…

Gibson City Events Spokesperson Susie Tongate

(Ford County-jm) – The Ford County Sheriff's Office has released their May activity report. During the month of May deputies responded to 6 traffic accidents and issued 37 citations including 8 for speeding, 5 for DUI, 3 each illegal transportation of alcohol, operating an uninsured motor vehicle and driving with no drivers license; 2 each for driving on a suspended or revoked license and disregarding a stop sign and 1 each for illegal passing, not wearing a seatbelt, improper lane usage and failure to reduce speed. Deputies also handed 28 civil complaints, 8 domestic incidents, 7 reports each of an animal complaint and suspicious person, 4 reports of harassment 2 each of theft, fraud and stolen vehicles and 1 each of abuse, property damage and a phone scam.

(Cissna Park–jc)  One area town is celebrating its Zip Code Day this weekend. The zipcode for Cissna Park is 6-0-9-2-4. Sunday is 6 oh-9-24. The village will celebrate the day on Saturday during it’s first Shop the park event. T-Shirts and postcards are available Several businesses will also have special items to celebrate Zip Code Day including Luke's One Stop and Perfume Acres. The first shop the park event is set for Saturday from 9am until 1pm in the park in Cissna Park.

(Chicago-jm) – Video gambling is a huge cash cow for the state of Illinois and Democratic lawmakers want a bigger slice of the pie for Chicago. A late addition to the $53.1 billion state budget that Gov. J.B. Pritzker is considering, would raise the tax on the industry to 35%. The Pritzker administration estimated that the tax hike would generate an additional $35 million next fiscal year.  Over 45,000 video gaming terminals were in operation in Illinois at the end of last year. Chicago’s City Council has maintained its ban on the terminals since the state legalized the gaming machines for businesses holding liquor licenses in 2012. During debate of the state budget last week, Republicans noted that funds from video gaming downstate are funneled to Chicago.

(Springfield-jm) – An area state lawmaker is continuing to discuss the new state budget passed last week. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City talks about the new budget and the increased amount of spending the state has done under the Pritzker Administration…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City. The budget also includes over a billion dollars in new tax increases to help fund the migrant crisis in Chicago. Senator Bennett said he voted against the budget due to the overspending and lack of funding for other critical needs.

(Savoy-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff’s Office is looking for help in identifying the people who burglarized a business in Savoy one week ago. Officials posted on Facebook that on May 27, deputies responded to 1327 Savoy Plaza Lane for a burglary alarm. When they arrived, they found the front window smashed by a brick and numerous items stolen from the store. There were two suspects involved in the crime and both were recorded on store security cameras.

(Cissna Park–jc)  – The State of Illinois F F A convention is coming one week from today in Springfield. Cissna Park F F A Advisor Jeff Clifton says the local Cissna Park group is being recognized as one of the top fundraisers for the “harvest for all” campaign…

Cissna Park F F A Advisor Jeff Clifton

(Rantoul-jm) – The Rantoul Police Department and Champaign County Crime Stoppers are asking for help in solving an armed robbery that happened one month ago. Officials said that just before midnight on May 3, three people entered a business at South Maplewood and Harmon Drives, displayed guns and demanded money. The suspects were last seen running away from the area. All were males wearing face masks and blue disposable gloves and had the following clothing descriptions: Suspect 1 – a dark Nike hoodie, dark pants and carrying a backpack, 

Suspect 2 – dark sunglasses, a dark hoodie and dark pants and Suspect 3 – a gray hat, a dark hoodie, dark pants and wearing a backpack across their chest.

(Everywhere–jc)  They are loud and they seem to be everywhere. O-S-F’s Tim Ditman has more…

(Springfield-jm) – A bill that passed the Illinois General Assembly will allow traffic violators to get three unpaid traffic tickets per year before they have their license suspended. After backlash earlier this year, state Representative Justin Slaughter didn’t move forward with a controversial traffic stop bill that would have prohibited officers from pulling over individuals caught speeding up to 25 miles per hour over the posted speed limit. However, Slaughter pushed through a different, more watered down, traffic bill in House Bill 277. Slaughter said the current law is unfair to violators and causes problems for them keeping their jobs. Republicans warned if the proposed bill becomes law, there's no incentive for violators to pay their tickets and that will be problematic for local governments.

(Springfield-jm) – Local reaction to the state’s nearly $53 billion budget continues to come in. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett talks about the lack of school infrastructure funding in the bill…

Senator Bennett says a recent survey shows millions of dollars are needed…

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Champaign County-jm) – The victim of Monday’s crash in Coles County has been identified as a correctional officer within the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Dustin Heuerman confirmed that Officer Jennie Ashley was the individual who died in the crash west of Mattoon at Western Avenue and Dole Road. He said Ashley was off duty at the time of the crash.

(Sibley–dm)-The 20th annual Sibley Burr Oaks Area Tractor Drive is Scheduled for Saturday July 6th.  Event organizer Russ Tjarks tells us how the event got started…

Sibley Burr Oaks Area Tractor Drive Event organizer Russ Tjarks.  More information is found by calling 217-249-2377. 

(Champaign County-jm) – The Champaign County area has recorded a 12 percent increase in home sales in April 2024, with a total of 218 units sold, compared to 195 units in the same month last year. This trend has nudged the year-to-date sales slightly by 0.1 percent over last year, according to the latest data from Midwest Real Estate Data. The median home sale price for April stood at $223,500, showing a substantial 18 percent increase from $190,000 in April 2023. Similarly, the average sale price also surged to $249,200, up by 13 percent from the previous year. The robust seller’s market is evident as nearly all homes are selling at their original list price. However, the housing inventory as of May 15, 2024, has slightly increased to 714 properties from 635 last month, despite a 13.7 percent decline in new listings compared to April 2023. Mortgage rates have also played a significant role in shaping the local real estate landscape. The average rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage stood at 7.02 percent for the week ending May 16, according to Freddie Mac, reflecting an increase from 6.34 percent last year.

(Chicago–jc)  One group is objecting to the use of license plate readers, and the issue could wind up in the courts. WPXN”s Dan Mushrush has the story…

(Springfield-jm) – Monday was the deadline for candidates that didn’t run in Illinois’ March primary to file for ballot access. It was also the first hearing in a case challenging the prohibition of such candidates from being slated. The law Gov. J.B. Pritzker hastily enacted last month after the legislature gutted and replaced a completely separate bill with the mid-election year change was temporarily blocked after a Sangamon County judge issued a preliminary injunction. Monday, candidates filed petitions with the Illinois State Board of Elections to get on the November ballot. Across town in Springfield, Liberty Justice Center attorney Jeffrey Schwab represented some of the filers in the first hearing challenging the law.  In the March primary election, the winning party was already determined in more than half of Illinois’ House and Senate seats up for grabs as no opposing party ran candidates in those districts. Monday was the deadline for candidates that didn’t run in the primary to seek ballot access. The deadline to file objections to candidates seeking ballot access is June 10. The General Election is November 5.

(Chicago–jc)  – Amidst an audit revealing Illinois Prisoner Review Board flaws, Illinois House Bill 6-81 sought reforms, but stalled during the Spring session which just ended. Illinois Governor J B Pritzker says there were issues with the measure…

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker. The legislation was created in response to Jayden Perkins’ death. Perkins died trying to save his mom from an attacker who was released by the Illinois Prisoner Review Board. 14th District State Representative Kelly Cassidy represents the Chicago district where that crime occurred. Cassidy talks about her bill…

14th District State Representative Democrat Kelly Cassidy of Chicago. The issue did not come up for a vote last week. Lawmakers may bring up the bill when they meet later this year. 

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign’s Municipal Electric Aggregation electric supply contract with Constellation NewEnergy will end in July 2024. Currently, the City does not plan to continue its program for the upcoming period. The electricity supply rate from Ameren is lower than the most competitive offer rate that the City received, meaning Ameren customers are expected to pay less. Current members do not need to do anything to switch to Ameren electricity supply, as this will occur automatically upon expiration of the current supply contract. This does not mean the City’s program has been terminated. In the future if the City can secure a contract for competitive electricity supply at a rate lower than Ameren’s expected supply rate, the City’s program can be reinstated.

(Washington-jm) – The weather has been kind to most growers so far this season. Gary Crawford reports…

(Mahomet-jm) – The Mahomet-Seymour School District is looking over new ways to deal with a growing student population. Schools have been dealing with crowded classrooms for nearly a decade, but they haven’t been able to find a solution. They have two new plans — and they both involve tearing down the junior high school. There have been two plans both voted down in referendums. The first cost was close to $100 million and the second was almost $60 million.

WPXN News notes…

The 2024 Buckley Fun Day is set for Saturday, June 15th. The day begins with the Ladies Aid Bake Sale at 9, tractor show and vendor market from 10-2, live music 10:30-1, inflatables 10:30-1:30, kids games and golfing into the lake 10:30-2:30, 11-11:30 golf cart parade, food trucks 11-4, tractor parade 1-1:30, bingo and dunk donnie 1:30-2:30, bossie bingo at 2, kids tractor pull 3:30 and the duck race at 4:17.

Gifford will hold their annual celebration on Saturday, June 29th with the 5k run/walk at 7, cars and coffee at 8, parade at 10, activities and food trucks at Werner Roessler Park from 11-3, bags tournament downtown at 3 and fireworks at dusk.

(Springfield-jm) – Staffers with Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch’s office are suing over labor issues. The Illinois Legislative Staff Association said Welch is violating their rights by not collectively bargaining with them, despite Welch campaigning for the labor rights amendment approved for the Illinois Constitution. They allege a climate of “fear and anxiety” over their jobs. Welch’s office said Friday they had yet to see the lawsuit.

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois lawmakers in Springfield have pushed through a 53 and one half Billion dollar budget that increases spending, again this year. One group that has received one Billion dollars are non-citizens, one group that is receiving less are veterans groups. 104th District State Representative Brandun Schweitzer says our veterans were ignored in this year’s budget…

104th District State Representative Brandun Schweitzer of Danville. The 20-25 year fiscal budget is now in the hands of Illinois Governor J B Pritzker.

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign woman is facing charges in her role in a shooting in March. It happened in the 1400 block of N. Hickory Street just before 9:30 p.m. on Friday, March 22. Champaign Police said, when officers arrived, they were told a 24 year old woman from Champaign was taken to the hospital. Investigation indicated that the woman was attending a party at the residence and a single shot was allegedly fired by Danielle Hoffman, 20, of Champaign. Hoffman was arrested on April 4, 2024, following service of a search warrant on unrelated charges. In investigating those charges, evidence was discovered that has been linked to the incident on Hickory Street. On Friday May 31, Hoffman’s charges were amended to include Aggravated Battery with a Firearm, a Class X Felony. She remains in custody at the Champaign County Correctional Facility.

(Buckley–jc)  The 20-24 Knight for Christ Live Auction and Dinner to benefit Christ Lutheran High School in Buckley is set for Saturday August 24th at the Ford County Fairgrounds in Melvin. Christ Lutheran High School Executive Director Sandy Spitz says they are now gathering items and are looking for donations from businesses and civic groups…

Christ Lutheran High School Executive Director Sandy Spitz

(Decatur-jm) – After a long hiatus, boat racing will return to Lake Decatur this coming weekend. Hardy’s Highway: Race for the Lake was announced by the Decatur Park District last September. The races will take place at Nelson Park on June 8 and 9. Around 60 hydro and flat bottom boats will compete in sanctioned racing from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. In addition to the racing, there will be food vendors, arts and crafts vendors, music, and family-friendly activities.

(Washington-jm) – While the general tone of USDA's export forecast is down, there are still some products that could see a better export year than they did last year. Gary Crawford reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Today is the deadline for candidates that didn’t run in the primary to file to be slated to the November general election. Today also happens to be the first hearing in a case challenging a recently enacted state law prohibiting the slating of such candidates. Potential candidates obtained a preliminary injunction, temporarily blocking the law as the case plays out. The Illinois State Board of Elections said they will follow any order from the courts.

(Rantoul–jc)  If you see a bunch of veterans gathering donations on June 12 in Rantoul at the corner of routes 136 and route 45, there is a good reason. The Rantoul Paxton VFW Post 67-50 needs your help. The local group is in needs of operation funds to keep the post open. Event Spokesperson Joe Manka says they hope area citizens will come by and donate on June 12th…

Rantoul Paxton V F W Spokesperson Joe Manka

(Champaign-jm) – Two people are hurt after an early Saturday morning shooting. Police were called to the 100 block of S. Mattis Avenue around 1:45 a.m. Saturday. Champaign Police say, when officers arrived they found a 30 year old male from Champaign who had been shot multiple times. Police say, a 24 year old man from Champaign later arrived at the hospital a short time later with a non-life threatening gunshot wound to the torso. He was treated for his injuries and released.

(Champaign-dm) – Experts say there’s no cut-off time when you shouldn’t eat at night, but there are ways to do it intentionally. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has more…

Park also says if you work the night shift, follow your body’s cues on when its time to eat. Also, don’t skip meals. But if you’re intentionally fasting, eat foods that are high in protein and fiber so you feel full.

(Undated-jm) – People who are struggling to put food on the table are facing another hurdle. It's now costing even more, the highest in 20 years according to Feeding America’s newly released annual “Map the Meal Gap” study. The high prices are affecting people across the country, and right here in Central Illinois. Almost $25 dollars a week, that's how much more money those facing food insecurity need per week, per person, in order to have enough food on their table. Making it harder than ever before for families to get nutritious food. In Central Illinois, several counties are facing higher percentages of food insecurity. Vermillion, Edgar, Macon, Christian, Morgan, Pike, Hancock, and McDonough counties are all seeing a 13-14 percent food insecurity rate. Other counties such as Schuyler county are seeing a 16 percent rate.

(Washington-jm) – The USDA has released its farm price index report for April. Gary Crawford reports…

WPXN News notes..

Paxton Main Street will hold their 1st Fridays concert series on Friday, June 7 from 7-9 pm at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton with the band Love Sign performing.  The concessions stands at the event open at 6pm

Paxton townwide garage sales will take place Friday, June 7th and Saturday, June 8th. Maps will be available at both Caseys and Village Pantry.

The Elliott Amvets will hold a family dinner night on Friday, June 7th from 5-7 pm. Dinner includes your choice of chicken, fish or shrimp for $15.

Paxton IGA will hold their cookout benefiting St. Johns PTO on Saturday, June 8th from 10-2.

The 71st annual Buckley and Buckley Loda High School Alumni Banquet will take place on Saturday, June 8th at the 103 East in Buckley. Social hour begins at 5 with dinner beginning at 6. 

The Champaign Urbana Elks will sponsor a free children's orthopedic assessment clinic on Wednesday, June 12th at the OSF Children's Hospital of Illinois Multi-Specialty Clinic in Urbana from 8:30-10:30 am. Appointments are required by calling 1-800-272-0074.