(Center Square) – Illinois is the only state that is moving ahead with a law that limits banks from charging interchange fees on tax and tip revenues, but the law was officially challenged in court Wednesday. A group of organizations, including the Illinois Bankers Association, asked a federal judge for an injunction blocking the Interchange Fee Prohibition Act from taking effect next year. Illinois  Governor. J.B. Pritzker has said the act was the best outcome for Illinois retailers, who will also be capped in the discount they get for collecting and remitting sales taxes.The Illinois Retail Merchants Association said the law would provide tangible relief to Illinois workers, families and businesses by limiting the fees financial institutions can charge on transactions.

(Undated–jc)  Field fires continue to be a problem in Illinois. Multiple Vermilion County fire departments were called on Wednesday for a field fire near Westville in Vermilion County. Another field fire erupted near Chrisman. Both fires have since been contained. On Tuesday field fires were reported near Ogden in Champaign County and in rural Onarga and Papineau in Iroquois County Much of the WPXN listening area is receiving a much needed rain this morning.

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois Governor JB Pritzker agrees with former President Donald Trump that violent non-citizens need to be deported, but not on other issues of illegal migrants. WPXN's Joel Cluver has the story...

(Springfield–jc)  –The Illinois State Board of Education has released its annual school report card, a snapshot on how the state's over 850 school districts are performing and the costs associated with instruction.In fiscal year 2023, operational spending per student in Illinois was nearly $19,000. Operational spending per student includes all costs for overall operations, including instructional spending.  

(Paxton–jc) A new development on Paxton's west side is another huge plus for the city and area. In updating our story, a housing and commercial development area near Interstate 57 continues to move forward and Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says this is the future of the city...

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Chicago–jc)  –Court proceedings are back in session at the bribery and racketeering trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael MadiganMadigan and Democratic Party of Illinois staffer Will Cousineau returned to the witness stand after beginning his testimony Tuesday. Prosecutors played a recording of Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain talking about political appointments with Cousineau and other staffers.

(Rural–jc)  Fall harvest is the time that deer are on the move and one local State Senator is talking safety. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City has some of the numbers...

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City

(Chicago–jc)  –Walgreens is laying off 256 workers, mostly in Illinois, the latest in a series of job cuts at the company in recent years as it struggles with financial losses.The layoffs come as Walgreens works to turn around its business, aiming to focus more on its retail pharmacy efforts. The company has eliminated more than 1,000 jobs over the last few years, including many in Illinois.  

(Springfield–jc)  –Gov. J.B. Pritzker, along with the Illinois Department of Human Rights and the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes has announced the official launch of Help Stop Hate, a confidential service that provides support and resources to people and communities affected by hate.

(Rantoul–jc)  A vintage plane will be making an appearance at the Rantoul Village Airport starting on Thursday and running through Sunday. Rantoul Mayor ChuckSmith says a 1929 Ford Tri Motor Aircraft will be at the airport for the public...

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Springfield–jc)  –  The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has announced the launch of a new online licensing system, for the first set of licensed professionals.The new online process eliminates the need for paper applications, gives applicants more control over their application materials and helps prevent deficient applications from being submitted. The agency has been under fire for licensing delays

(The Center Square) – Voter confidence has been shaken with voting machines malfunctioning in several Illinois jurisdictions. In McLean County, 34 ballots were placed in what the County Clerk Kathy Michael called "an emergency bin," which is located underneath the voting machine used to tabulate ballots. At the Eastland Mall, an early voting location, the machine "glitched" for 30 minutes. Affected voter Wayne Henrichs called the clerk's office after putting his ballot in the bin and was connected with an assistant county clerk.  Henrichs was told the ballot would be considered a mail in vote and not counted early. McLean County GOP Chair Dennis Grundler was at the Eastland Mall trying to vote on Tuesday. He said he was told to put his ballot in the emergency bin. Questions then raised about the Identities of the election judges and the proper procedure to handle the ballot.

(Paxton–jc) – One place for trick or treaters on Thursday is Accolade on Pells in the city of Paxton. Medical Records Specialist Jody Damrath says the kids can stop by for treats and more at Accolade on Pells starting at 4pm...

Accolade on Pells Medical Records Specialist Jody Damrath.

The event starts at 4 on Thursday afternoon

(Urbana–jc) Fall means trips to apple orchards and pumpkin patches. The produce you see on display isn't just for decoration. Several fall staples can be a healthy treat – if you know how to pick and cook them properly. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has more...

(Ogden–jc)  – With the dry windy weather on Tuesday, several field and grass fires caused damage to property in East Central Illinois. Around 3pm, a field and grass fire was reported near Ogden in Champaign County. Firefighters from St Joseph, Ogden, and Royal were called in to assist. The smoke and debris from the winds caused officials to shut down Interstate 74 for several hours as traffic was re routed onto U S Route 150. A second fire was reported in rural Onarga around 4pm Tuesday. Firefighters from Onarga, Gilman and more assisted in getting that field fire under control. A third fire also happened in Iroquois County in the Papineau area.  Several departments there were also deployed. For today there is a burning ban in Ford County and several other communities are also prohibiting burning today. Some relief could be coming overnight as there is some rain in the forecast.

(Springfield-jm) – Attorney General Kwame Raoul is reminding parents and guardians to check the state's sex offender registry before deciding on trick-or-treat routes for their children. Illinois law prohibits all sex offenders who committed a crime against a child from distributing candy, in addition to prohibiting them from participating in trick-or-treat events or other Halloween events involving children younger than 18.

(GIbson City–jc)  The corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan continues this week. Reaction on the proceedings from 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City...

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City

(Danville–jc)  –Danville Area Community College will be electing three Trustees during the Apri;. 1, 2025, election.The College already had two Board seats due to expire next April. The third opening came when Dave Harby announced his retirement from the Board after more than 25 years of service. Harby's unexpired term runs for four years. The other two open seats are for six-year terms.

(Paxton–jc)  Facade agreements for building improvements are happening downtown Paxton. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says a new agreement for work has been placed with Kief Realty in the city...

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — In order to make an education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign more affordable to low- and middle-income families, the threshold to be eligible for Illinois Commitment — a financial aid program that provides free tuition and fees for in-state students — has been increased from $67,100 to $75,000. The increase puts Illinois near the top of the Big Ten in terms of the income limit. "Cost should never be a barrier to a student's decision to apply to their state's flagship public university," said Chancellor Robert Jones. "Education creates generational change, and we must ensure talented students of all economic backgrounds in the state of Illinois have access. Increasing the income threshold for Illinois Commitment is a necessary step to open the door to an Illinois education for more families in our state." This change is effective for incoming students starting in the fall 2025 semester. The admissions application is currently open and closes January 5th.

(Washington-jm) – There's not much time left to get a farm bill crafted and passed. Gary Crawford reports...

(Gifford-jm) – The Gifford Fire Department is bringing back a program that aims to keep you safe in your home. Smoke detectors are essential year-round. The department is  distributing and installing smoke alarms to people who live within the department's district. They have 24 available all for free, you just have to call the department or message them on Facebook.

(Ford County-jm) – The Ford County Emergency Management Agency along with Ford County fire departments have issued a county-wide burn ban through 8 am Thursday morning.

(Rantoul–jc)  Like most growing communities, the village of Rantoul is looking for some grants from the state of Illinois to upgrade its electrical capacity. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says they have applied for a grant from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity...

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith.

(Paxton–jc)  A fundraiser for a Paxton Buckley Loda 6th grader was a huge success last night. P-B-L Sixth Grader Jaxen Peacock recently underwent a double lung transplant last month and efforts by teachers and volunteers from the local school district organized the fundraising efforts on Tuesday.  Event coordinators would like to thank all who attended last night to help out Jaxen Peacock.

(Hoopeston-jm) – Christmas is coming! The Hoopeston Jaycees will host registration for their annual Toys for Kids Project, which allows qualifying families to select new toys and stocking stuffers for children ages 0-12. Participation will be open to all residences within the Hoopeston Area School District, including Hoopeston, Rankin, East Lynn, Wellington, and Cheneyville. Income qualification will be based on the book waiver through the school district. Applicants must be parents and/or guardians, and are asked to bring proof of residency and children. Registration will take place in person only at the Hoopeston First United Methodist Church on the following dates: Saturday from 9:00-11:00 a.m., Monday, November 4: 9:00-11:00 a.m. and Wednesday, November 6: 6:00-7:30 p.m.

(Washington-jm) – Several factors are at work, keeping food price inflation under control. Gary Crawford reports...

(Paxton–jc)  –  The Paxton Christmas Parade Committee has been busy gearing up for the parade that is set for SaturdayNovember 30th at 1-30pm. The group also is helped by the Paxton Service Club in selecting a downtown tree says Paxton Christmas Parade Committee Chairperson Dawn Glad...

Paxton Christmas Parade Committee Chairperson Dawn Glad

Springfield–jc)  Voters in several counties, including Iroquois County have an issue on the November 5th ballot asking if they want to separate from Chicago. Illinois Governor J B Pritzker says the dollars spent come from Chicago...

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker

About one third of Illinois Counties have passed similar splitting away from Chicago measures. The question on the ballot is non--binding.

(Thomasboro–jc)  A vehicle versus bus accident along Route 45 near Thomasboro on Monday afternoon caused detours to traffic for several hours. No one on the bus was injured and the motorist in the opposite vehicle had minor injuries. The accident happened around 3-15 Monday afternoon. Police say the area was back to normal around 5pm

(Calhoun County–jc)  –The treasurer of a Calhoun County parent-teacher organization has been arrested on charges accusing her of stealing more than $10,000 from the group.According to the Illinois State Police Special Investigations Unit, 43 year old Peggy Hall,  was charged  with one count of theft of more than $10,000 and one count of deceptive practices, both felonies. Calhoun County State's Attorney's Office notified state police investigators of the theft allegations in February.

(Springfield–jc)  Voters in the Metro East County of Madison are being asked on November 5th if they want to separate from Chicago. This is one step in the process as some counties in the state have passed similar measures. Illinois Governor J B Pritzker says this is an issue that should not be on the ballot...

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker

About one third of Illinois Counties have passed similar splitting away from Chicago measures. On November 5th voters in Seven Counties, including Iroquois County, will have a non-binding question on separating Chicago from the state of Illinois. 

(Springfield–jc)  Lawmakers from around Illinois recently met with staff from the Pontiac Correctional Center to discuss work conditions.  State Sens. Tom Bennett and Terri Bryant and state Rep. Dennis Tipsword discussed ongoing drug exposure incidents, concerns and possible solutions with Pontiac staff. Prison workers around the state demonstrated earlier this month and demanded that the Department of Corrections put measures in place to prevent illegal substances from entering prisons and address staff shortages.  

(Paxton–jc)  –  Lee Excavating of Paxton has been hired by the city of Paxton to do some clean up work in a ditch area south of Monical's Pizza on Paxton's west side. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says that area is overgrown and is one of the first steps for a new development in Paxton...

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Chicago–PepsiCo abruptly closed a facility in northern Illinois, leaving approximately 80 workers without jobs. The company sent the union a letter Monday informing them of the immediate closure of the facility in Chicago.The union claims Pepsi bypassed the required 60-day notice under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act. The union is calling for an explanation from the company and has requested a meeting with company officials on Wednesday to discuss the situation.

(Springfield==jc)  –The State Treasurer's Office made more than $130 million in investment earnings from the state investment portfolio in September. Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs is the state's chief investment and banking officer. He is responsible for investing revenue in the state investment portfolio.During 2024, Frerichs' office has earned nearly $1.2 billion for the state portfolio. According to state law, the Treasurer's Office is prohibited from directly investing the state's portfolio in the stock market. 

(Rural–dm)-Rural clean energy projects could boost rural economics.  Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has more.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack

(The Center Square) – At the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, prosecutors have continued to make their case with recordings of Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain.U.S. government attorneys have played dozens of an estimated 200 total recordings jurors are expected to hear during the trial, which is projected to last 11 weeks.Madigan and McClain are facing 23 federal counts of bribery, racketeering and official misconduct. McClain referred to Madigan in a conversation with longtime union executive and Illinois Tollway Board member James Connolly on Dec. 11, 2018.

(Springfield–jc)  One in 8 voters in Illinois have already cast their ballots. WPXN's Joel Cluver has more on the story...

(The Center Square) – An agricultural expert says composting may be the solution to reducing food waste in Illinois landfills. Nationally, landfills and trash incinerators receive 167 million tons of garbage a year, half of that being compostable. "Illinois landfills receive almost 20 tons of waste per year, and it's kind of astounding that nearly 21% of that is food scraps," said STEM educator Susan Gasper during a recent University of Illinois Extension "Everyday Environment" podcast.Landfills are anaerobic environments, meaning there is little to no oxygen. When microorganisms break down organic materials in an anaerobic environment, methane is released.

(Undated–jc)  –Illinois is going to get a taste of summer this week. Unseasonably warm temperatures are expected around the state on Today and Wednesday with highs surpassing 80 degrees for many areas.A number of cities are expected to see record high temperatures. Normal high temperatures this time of year are in the upper 50s and lower 60s for Illinois.

(Washington–jc)  –  Farm Service Agency Acting Deputy Administrator John Berge says producers participating in U-S-D-A programs are seeing an adjustment in acre dimension reporting. Secretary Berge says the information gathered, helps to gather more exact information from ag acres...

Farm Service Agency Acting Director John Birge

(Rantoul–jc)  Village of Rantoul leaders continue to monitor the former land fill in the village and have hired an engineering group to inspect the area. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says this is to ensure there are no issues at the former landfill...

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Kankakee–jc) One non-profit that helps survivors of sexual assault is hosting a fundraiser in November to help fund their three county area. Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracy Noe-Slah ( No-E Slaw)says they have offices in Kankakee, Watseka and Paxton...

Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracy Noe-Slah. The event is set for Friday November 8th and the Kankakee County Fairgrounds. Doors open at 4-30pm and the Bingo and fun begin at 6-30pm Tickets are 35 dollars each. Tickets are available on line.

(Rural–dm)-Rural clean energy projects can boost rural economies.  U-S-D-A Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack talks about those  opportunities...

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

(Gibson City–jc)  –There's  a walk event set for Gibson City in November The Fall Wine Walk is set for Saturday  November 9 starting at 10-30am. Participants get a wine glass, bag and a map to go to participating businesses. Every $10.00 they spend they get in the running for a wine basket and $200.00 in Gibson Bucks.   The tickets are $20.00 and you can get them at Syd and Sadie's, 102 N Sangamon or A Renee at 202 N Sangamon both in Gibson City.

WPXN News notes...

The Paxton Buckley Jr, High will hold a benefit tonight for student Jaxen Peacock prior to the girls basketball game. Doors open at 4:45. 

The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours will take place  tonight from 5-7 pm at Shields Automart of Paxton.

Jeremiah 33:6 will hold a free produce pantry and health fair on Friday, November 1st from 3:30-5:30 at the Roberts Gym.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their family night dinner on Friday, November 1st from 5-7 pm. Dinner includes your choice of chicken, fish or shrimp and your choice of 2 sides for $15.

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting the Rantoul Masonic Lodge on Saturday, November 2nd from 10-2.

(East Dundee–jc)  –A man was seriously injured this week while installing electric vehicle charging stations at a northern Illinois auto dealership. The East Dundee Fire Protection District said the incident happened at a Chevrolet dealer in Elgin. Officials said the worker's right arm and hand were burned, but he was alert and talking when he was taken to a local hospital.

(Watseka–jc)  The Iroquois County State's Attorney Jim Devines office has ruled that law enforcement's use of force in  a shooting near Sheldon was justified. That shooting took the life of 37 year old Andrew Roselius. The incident happened on September First as police responded to a reported kidnapping in progress. Iroquois County State's Attorney Devine said his office will not take any more action in the case.

(Indianapolis–jc)  The Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Floriculture team is at the groups national convention in Indianapolis this week. The local group is competing in the national floriculture competition after winning the state competition. Paxton Buckley Loda F F A Floriculture team spokesperson Lane Robideau talks about the projects that got the team to the nationals

Paxton Buckley Loda F F A National Floriculture team spokesperson Lane Robideau. The team received a Gold rating and Madison Freed finished 9th as an individual.

(Chicago–jc)  –A federal grand jury has indicted a Chicago man on charges he assaulted and robbed two U.S. Postal Service carriers. Devan Flax, 21, is accused of robbing a postal carrier on Nov. 25 of last year and another on Nov. 28 in Forest Park. According to an indictment, Flax is also accused of robbing an employee of a Berwyn restaurant around the same time.

(Champaign–jc)  –Local IllinoisState Senator Paul Faraci oh Champaign  has introduced legislation to prohibit carbon capture and sequestration activities over, under or through the Mahomet Aquifer. The Mahomet Aquifer is a  vital sole-source aquifer supplying clean drinking water to over 500,000 residents across 14 counties in East Central Illinois. The Mahomet Aquifer is not only a source of drinking water, but it also supports agricultural and industrial industries in the region. While federal protections exist for groundwater, concerns remain about the long-term safety of underground storage near the aquifer. In the event of a leak, carbonic acid could react with other minerals in the rock formations, releasing new elements into the water. Recent assessments from the Illinois Geological Survey underscore the vulnerability of the aquifer, warning that these activities would need to be closely monitored to prevent environmental damage.

(Paxton–jc)  The City of Paxton will be holding a surplus property auction sometime later this fall. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says several properties will come into the city ownership and city leaders are having those properties assessed for potential sell...

City of Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Iroquois County–dm)-The Ford Iroquois County 4 H Foundation will be having their annual auction on Sunday November 17th. Ford Iroquois County 4 H Foundation spokesperson Nita Dubble has more information.

Ford Iroquois County 4H Foundation spokesperson Nita Dubble.  A few of the items that will be auctioned off are a Wrigley Field tour, an airplane ride and sports tickets.

(Champaign–jc)  -.Firefighters and staff from the Champaign Fire Department and Neighborhood Services Department along with the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance will be going door-to-door in a north Champaign neighborhood Friday, October 25, 2024, offering to check smoke alarms and installing free smoke alarms in homes that need them.

(Paxton–jc) Today's WPXN Businesses of the Day are Paxton Hardware and Rental and The Prairie CityWine Room. The pair of businesses are owned by the Allen Family In Paxton. Paxton Hardware & Rental Store Owner Scott Allen says they have fall leaf vacuums to rakes and more and now is the time to prepare for winter...

Scott Allen says a comedy show is set for tomorrow night at the Prairie City Wine room and some tickets are available......

Paxton Hardware and Rental Owner Scott Allen.  

Check out the Prairie City Wine Room for tickets for Saturday nights show

(Piatt County–jc)  A Standoff in Piatt County ended just before 8pm last night. Channel 3 is reporting that Piatt County Sheriff's police assisted the Champaign Police Department in executing a search warrant at a home in Mansfield. The person inside the home, barricaded himself in the home. Champaign police's SWAT and METRO Teams were able to bring the standoff to a peaceful solution. The person was taken into custody and transported to the Champaign County jail.

(The Center Square) – Wiretapped conversations have taken center stage at the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. Prosecutors played a series of recordings during testimony from FBI Special Agent Ryan McDonald Thursday afternoon. McDonald said he had been working on the Madigan investigation since 2014. He also said that the COVID-19 pandemic caused delays for investigators.

McDonald testified that the FBI had a wiretap, or Title III, approved on McClain's cell phone for about nine months. McDonald estimated that the FBI had about 20,000 recordings from McClain's phone.

(Cook County–jc)  –A lawsuit has been filed in Cook County by a Colorado man who claims he was sickened after eating McDonald's food contaminated with E Coli in a multistate outbreak. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 50 people across 10 states reported getting sick after eating at the fast food chain, with most of the cases in Colorado. Most of those sickened reported eating Quarter Pounder hamburgers. There were no reports of illnesses in Illinois.

(Illinois–dm)--Some argue that Illinois Electoral College votes should be divided.

WPXN's Dan Mushrush has the story.

(Champaign–dm)-Fall and winter mean picturesque, snowy scenery. But the season's weather can make working out more difficult. Normally dry sidewalks are replaced with ice. Or you may be snowed in entirely and unable to get to the gym. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has tips to exercise safely in cold weather.

 If you're snowed in and want to workout at home, use your surroundings. Use soup cans or water bottles as weights, or take some laps up and down the stairs. Just be mindful of trip hazards like a rug or wandering child.

(Rantoul–jc)  The village of Rantoul has a new dump truck. Village leaders gave their go-ahead to make the purchase of the  vehicle. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says the price was steep, but the village will use the truck all year long and it will be part of village property for a long time...

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Springfield–jc)  –Enrollment at Illinois community colleges continues to climb for the third straight year according to the Fall 2024 Illinois Community College Opening Enrollment Report, released today by the Illinois Community College Board . The opening Fall 2024 enrollment report recorded an overall increase of Seven point 4 percent, the largest fall-to-fall enrollment growth in the last 15 years, outpacing last year's fall enrollment increase of Five point 7 percent.

WPXN News notes...

The Rantoul Family Sports Complex will host a Halloween Party on Monday, October 28th from 5:30-7 pm. Activities include free hot dogs and chips, treats, games and inflatables. Costumes are encouraged.

The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours will take place on Tuesday, October 29th from 5-7 pm at Shields Automart of Paxton.

Jeremiah 33:6 will hold a free produce pantry and health fair on Friday, November 1st from 3:30-5:30 at the Roberts Gym.

(The Center Square) – ComEd connections and former state lawmakers are in the spotlight during the early days of the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain, a former state representative and longtime ally of Madigan's.ComEd executive Scott Vogt, who said he has worked for the utility company since 1998, took the witness stand late Wednesday morning. As he previously testified during the ComEd Four trial last year, Vogt described ComEd's financial situation as "dire" before the General Assembly passed legislation that benefited the utility. The Energy Infrastructure Modernization Act became law in 2011.

(Northbrook–jc)  –An arrest has been made in connection with the 2016 murder of an Illinois attorney. Jigar Patel was found strangled in his Northbrook office. Months later, law enforcement announced that they were looking for 50-year-old John Panaligan of Aurora in connection with the murder. On Wednesday, police announced that Panaligan, who was put on the U.S. Marshals 15 Most Wanted Fugitive List, was taken into custody in Mexico

(Paxton–jc) There is interest in some expansion business building projects on Paxton's west side. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says they have commissioned a study in an area near the CobleStone Hotel west of Interstate 57...

PaxtonMayor Bill Ingold

(Kankakee–jc)  – The chairman of the Kankakee County Board resigned Tuesday ahead of a special board meeting to consider his ouster after he recently took a job with the company behind a controversial electric vehicle battery plant being built in Manteno.Under Andrew Wheeler's leadership, the board was one of several taxing bodies that agreed to provide millions of dollars in incentives to lure Chinese-owned Gotion's $2 billion EV battery plant, which has been opposed by scores of residents. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has been a vocal backer of the plant, which is in line for $536 million in state tax incentives.

(Paxton–jc)  –  Its' coming...very soon. In updating our story from Wednesday, another new business in the city of Paxton. It's called Hudz Family Fun Zone and owner Andy Hudson says its all about fun and families...

Hudz Family Fun Zone Owner Andy Hudson.

The awning sign is up at the downtown Paxton location The business is expected to open by mid December

(Springfield–jc)  –The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is reminding deer hunters that deer can be tested for chronic wasting disease free of charge.Chronic wasting disease is a fatal disease of the central nervous system in deer and elk. It was first detected in a suspect adult female deer from northwest Boone County in 2002.

(Washington–jc)  The Top soil is dry in the local area, its the same around the state and a large part of the United States. Rod Bain has the details...

(Urbana–jc)  – A sales tax increase on the ballot in Champaign County. Champaign County voters will decide on Election Day whether to raise the county's sales tax from One and a quarter percent to One and a half percent. The Illinois Policy Institute reports that Champaign County leaders have used over $60,000 of taxpayer money for a marketing campaign to convince voters to pay more taxes. County officials say the sales tax hike will go toward public safety spending.

CHAMPAIGN – In order to complete an equipment lift at 304 E. Daniel Street,in Champaign,  Custom Service Crane will close Daniel Street between Third Street and Fourth Street.  The closure will occur on Friday, starting at 7am. Work is expected to be complete by 6 Friday evening.

(Springfield–jc) Illinois Governor J P Pritzker has proclaimed that all agencies covered by the Illinois Flag Display act are to fly the U. S. flag at half-staff now through sunset on Sunday to honor the life of a fallen State Police Officer. Illinois State Trooper Corey Thompson died in the line of duty on October 18th in Champaign County. Trooper Thompsen will be remembered for his unparalleled dedication to his city and community.

(Rantoul–jc)  –  Today's WPXN Business of the day is A House of Flowers by Marlena downtown Rantoul. They have all the flower arrangements, single flowers to wedding flowers and more. A House of Flowers owner Marlena Smith says they have fannie mae candies,  fall decor, a wide variety of unique gifts and also willow tree figurines...

Marlena Smith says fall decor fills the store for Halloween and the season, but reminds everyone that Thanksgiving and Christmas are coming soon...

A House of Flowers and Gifts Owner Marlena Smith.  Phone orders at 217-893-3600. A House of Flowers and Gifts downtown Rantoul is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

CHAMPAIGN – An Urbana man has been arrested following an investigation into a shooting incident in west Champaign. Champaign Police were dispatched to a South Mattis address on June first for a  report of a shooting with injuries. Two people had  potentially life-threatening gunshot wounds.  The investigation indicated that the victims were in the parking lot of a business near the intersection of Mattis & University when Donnie Caldwell, Jr., 27, of Urbana, fired multiple shots, and the men were struck. . Caldwell was arrested Wednesday in Champaign.

The initial charges of Attempted Murder in the first degree and two counts of Aggravated Battery with a Firearm. He remains in custody at the Champaign County Correctional Facility.  Champaign Police ask that anyone who has additional information please call 217-351-4545 or call Champaign County Crime Stoppers

(The Center Square) – A new poll commissioned by a coalition of environmental groups shows public support for consolidating Chicago's mass transit agencies. 

The Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition said by a 2-to-1 margin, Illinoisans want to combine the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra, Pace and the Regional Transportation Authority. Statewide, 46% of respondents supported the unification of the agencies, while 21% were opposed.  Earlier this year, state legislators proposed the Metropolitan Mobility Act, to create a single transit system out of the agencies.

(Washington–jc)  –Nearing a century of service in some cases, rural electric cooperatives continue to serve communities and regions through affordable power. Rod Bain reports...

(Rantoul–jc)  A new pavilion and some additional netting are coming to the Rantoul Sports Complex this fall. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says the project continues to be an ongoing investment at the sports complex...

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Elgin–jc)  –Flags across Illinois will fly half-staffed Monday, Oct. 28, to honor a Korean War veteran whose body will be returning to his family.United States Army Corporal Eriver Ortiz was killed in action in 1950. His body could not be recovered due to intense fighting in South Korea. His body was eventually identified through dental and DNA analysis. Corporal Ortiz will be returning to Illinois with a full military funeral in Elgin.

(Danville-jc)  –  Vermilion County's Health and Education Committee will meet today and look at an intergovernmental agreement with theHoopeston based department of Animal Shelter. Committee members are set to meet at 5pm in Danville.  County paid fees and use of an office vehicle are topics for local leaders. 

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Business After Hours on Tuesday at Shields AutoMart in Paxton. The networking event starts at 5pm on the 29th. 

WPXN News notes...

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting the Church of Christ on Saturday, October 26th from 10-2.

The City of Paxton will hold brush pickup starting Monday, October 28th and going until all streets and alleys have been taken care of.

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold a foodmobile on Monday, October 28th from 10-10:30 at the Gifford State Bank in Potomac, 11-11:30 at Andi Mae's Ice Cream in Bismarck, 12-12:45 at Christman Park in Rossville and 1:45-2:15 at Centennial Park in Rankin.

The Rantoul Family Sports Complex will host a Halloween Party on Monday, October 28th from 5:30-7 pm. Activities include free hot dogs and chips, treats, games and inflatables. Costumes are encouraged.

(Springfield-jm) – More than 740,000 registered Illinois voters have already cast a ballot. While the election is less than two weeks away, data from the Illinois State Board of Elections shows of the 8 million active registered voters, more than 1.1 million people requested a mail-in ballot. Nearly 432,000 have returned their ballot and 305,000 have voted early as of Tuesday. The election is November 5.

(Washington-jm) – USDA's October supply and demand ledgers for both world and U.S. soybeans noted minimal changes but how did the totals balance out? Rod Bain reports...

(Urbana-jm) – An Urbana man is facing a federal charge after authorities found over a hundred weapons and explosives in his house. According to federal court documents, Customs and Border Protections agents intercepted five packages earlier this year addressed to Yashua Baker, which contained multiple silencers, switches and other firearm accessories. Special agents found five fully automatic machine guns, more than 100 firearms, thousands of ammunition rounds and several firearms accessories. Federal authorities also found around 20 tiki torch containers fashioned into improvised explosive devices.

(Rantoul–jc– Some repairs and a pavilion project are coming to the Rantoul Sports Complex this fall. Rantoul Village leaders gave their go-ahead for the work says Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith...

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Champaign-jjm) – Beginning in the 2024-25 academic year, two Central Illinois colleges will have a new transfer partnership. Millikin University and Parkland College announced a partnership to strengthen the transfer process and provide a seamless transfer experience for students. According to Millikin, students at Parkland who have completed an Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in Applied Science or Associate in Engineering Science with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 will be automatically accepted into a Millikin baccalaureate degree program. They will also be provided a study plan that will allow them to complete their Millikin degree in two years.

(Paxton–jc)  The Gibson Area Hospital Foundation Glo Bingo events are set for Friday and Saturday this week.  Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee and Community Events Bill Kirby says some tickets remain, so check them out on-line...

Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee and Community Events Bill Kirby 

(Cissna Park–dm)-The National FFA Convention will be taking place this week in Indianapolis and several area FFA chapters will be attending.  Cissna Park FFA Advisor Jeff Clifton tells us about some of the activities the students will be taking part in.

Cissna Park FFA Advisor Jeff Clifton.

(Paxton–jc)  Today's WPXN Businesses of the Day are the Cadillac and Mom and Pops Kettle Korn Stop, both in downtown Paxton. Owner Alan Meyer says Mom and Pops started as a fundraising business in 2008 and now the downtown store has a wide variety of kettlekorn, popcorn,  to a snickerdoodle flavor  and bulk candies. Meyer says the popcorn for the butter popcorn at the store is purchased locally from Bauer Farms in Ford County...

The Cadillac is set to host the Gibson Area Hospital Foundation's Glo Bingo on Friday night and a band from Iowa on Saturday called Jive Radio. A Halloween celebration is also set for Saturday at The Cadillac. The Cadillac and Mom and Pops Kettle Korn Stop are the WPXN Businesses of the Day, today. 

Alan Meyer says  the Cadillac is busy for drinks and  gaming. Meyer says the Cadillac is set to host several events this weekend,..

The Cadillac and Mom and Pops Kettle Korn Stop Owner Alan Meyer.

Tickets for both shows are available on line. More information about both businesses is found on their facebook pages. 

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is warning that flood-damaged vehicles from recent hurricanes Helene and Milton may soon appear on the used car market, taking advantage of the nationwide vehicle shortage. Thousands of vehicles were flooded across southeastern states, and some sellers may try to hide this damage through extensive cleaning and moving vehicles through multiple states to conceal their history.

(Rantoul-jm) – Rantoul's Fire Department has a new Emergency Medical Service certification for the first time in 30 years. This means more training for its crew, two paramedics on staff and new medical gear. The department says there are times where multiple EMS calls come in at one time overwhelming the ambulance service in town requiring an ambulance to come from Champaign. This will allow responders to begin care to those who need it before advanced care arrives.

(Paxton–jc) The city of Paxton received a good grade for its annual audit. Officials from Feller Kuester Accountants told the city council this month they are doing a good job...

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Mahomet-jm) – If you live in Mahomet, get ready to see a familiar question on your ballot. The school district is asking for millions of dollars to improve and expand its buildings. The school district is proposing a nearly $113 million dollar question that would bring extra space. The district would build a new 2nd and 3rd grade building behind Middletown Prairie. That would remove the second graders from Middletown Prairie and the third-grade students from Lincoln Trail Elementary to free up space for both of those buildings. The plan also calls for shifting and adding school sites, like improvements to Lincoln Trail School, building a new junior high building, adding a new track to the junior high site, and moving the soccer field from the junior high to the high school.

(Fisher–dm)-Between 60,000 and 70,000 FFA Students will be attending the National FFA Convention this week in Indianapolis.  Fisher FFA Advisor Emily McClure tells us what's in store for the Fisher FFA Students.

Fisher FFA Advisor Emily McClure.

(Springfield-jm) – The state of Illinois has filed its final briefs in the challenge against the state's gun and magazine ban. Among the state's closing arguments are that restricted items "were designed for military combat," "far exceeds what is commonly used for self-defense" and the law "responds to unprecedented societal concerns." The state says if an injunction is granted blocking enforcement of the law, it should be stayed pending appeal. Plaintiffs argue the law violates the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms. Judge Stephen McGlynn is expected to issue a ruling in the case soon.

(Springfield-jm) – Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan was not an all powerful state politician who corruptly controlled Springfield, but an "incorruptible" man focused on serving his constituents, his defense team told jurors Monday. Madigan's defense attorney Thomas Breen told jurors in his opening statement that Madigan viewed his job as helping people. He wasn't after power or money, as federal prosecutors have contended. Prosecutors opened with a different description of Madigan. They described Madigan as the state's most powerful politician who was only interested in accumulating power, rewarding those loyal to him with no-work contracts and other jobs that required little or no work.

(Fairbury-jm) – A convicted sexual predator was sentenced to 180 days in the Livingston County Jail, served 2 years probation and must register as a sex offender for 10 years. But new charges from this past summer now finds Jeff Sidwell with a seven-year prison term. The 34-year-old from Danville was arrested by Fairbury Police and the CHAOS Task Force while working a carnival in Fairbury. Sidwell pled guilty to Solicitation of a Child and Travelling to Meet a Minor. He was arrested in August while working at the Fairbury Fair. Police reported Sidwell was chatting with an underage girl for sexual purposes on a social media app, planning to meet the female in Fairbury.

(Rantoul–jc)  – The Community Service Center in Rantoul provides two food pantries, one for Champaign County residents and the other for students at Rantoul Township High School. Community Service Center Executive Director Cindy Crawford says they have other services and are also now gearing up for the annual "holiday bureau"...

Community Service Center-Rantoul Executive Director Cindy Crawford

(Gibson City-jm) – Congresswoman Robin Kelly toured One Earth Energy's ethanol production facility in Gibson City, to explore the critical role of carbon capture and storage technology in advancing renewable energy solutions. Since 2009, One Earth Energy has produced ethanol in east-central Illinois, and is expanding its operations to include sustainable aviation fuel production through its subsidiary, One Earth Sequestration, which will develop a Carbon Capture and Storage project to safely capture and store carbon emissions underground.

(Cissna Park–dm)-The National FFA Convention will be taking place this week in Indianapolis and several area FFA chapters will be attending.  Cissna Park FFA Advisor Jeff Clifton tells us about some of the activities the students will be taking part in.

Cissna Park FFA Advisor Jeff Clifton.

(Undated-jm) – Average gasoline prices in Illinois have fallen 9.9 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.37/g,according to GasBuddy. Prices in Illinois are 6.0 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 24.4 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has declined 1.3 cents in the last week and stands at $3.56 per gallon.

(Paxton—jc) Today's WPXN business of the day is the Paxton Christmas Parade Committee. Along with Pride in Paxton, plans continue for the annual November event. Paxton Parade Committee Chairperson Dawn Glad says this year's theme is "The Magic of Paxton"...

She says the parade events are set for the Friday and Saturday afternoon Thanksgiving....

Paxton Christmas Committee Chairperson-Pride in Paxton Dawn Glad

(Champaign–jc)  A traffic accident early this morning along Interstate 74 near Prairie View road in Champaign is slowing traffic at this hour. Police say traffic is being rerouted on Route 150 at mile marker174. Police advise to seek an alternate route in the area this morning. No information on the accident was provided 

(Springfield-jm) – State Republicans are sounding the alarm about a new Illinois Education Association survey that finds almost three out of every five state educators concede they have envisioned themselves walking away from the classroom. In a poll conducted earlier this summer from a pool of 500 active IEA members, researchers found 59% of teachers, professors in higher education and support staff all admit that they have harbored such thoughts.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence released its annual homicide report for 2023, and it shows a 110% increase in domestic homicides from the previous year. The coalition report states 120 people died in 94 separate incidents, with 56% of the victims being women.

(Champaign-jm) – The Mid America Carpenters Regional Council are on strike at the City of Champaign Fire Station 4 over the employment of non-union carpenters on a project to renovate the living quarters for Champaign Firefighters. The Carpenters Union began a strike at the fire station on Monday, stopping all construction work. In a release, the city said that emergency services will not be impeded. The fire companies assigned to Station 4 are on duty and will continue responding to calls as usual.

(Urbana-jm) – The University of Illinois Research Park is already one of the largest employers in Champaign County, and they're looking to expand. The park is trying to change the zoning of land surrounding Fourth street and Hazelwood Drive to better attract business owners.

(Champaign–dm)-The dry weather has been good for getting the crops out of the fields, but with the dry weather comes a fire hazard.  Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady has some tips to help prevent field fires.

Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady.

(Champaign-jm) – The State Farm Center is proud to announce the addition of the Hall of Fame trio ZZ TOP to its lineup of shows in the Spring of 2025. The iconic group will perform on Saturday, April 5 at 7:30 pm. This marks the band's fourth visit to Champaign and their first since appearing with Lynyrd Skynyrd in October of 2011.  They debuted at the then-Assembly Hall in the fall of 1980. Tickets go on sale to the public this Friday, October 25th at 10 a.m.

(Matteson–jc)  A nationwide ready-to-eat meat and poultry listeria recall impacting grocery stores has now expanded to include food served in schools, including some in Illinois. The items range from deli sandwiches from Trader Joe's to deli salads from Walmart, Aldi and more. The Food Safety and Inspection Service reported the food was shipped to more than 100 schools across 17 states. Two schools were listed in Illinois, including Fox Valley Family YMCA in Plano and Kiddie Scholars in Matteson.

(Champaign County-jm) – An Illinois State Police trooper has died following a crash in Champaign County Friday afternoon. On Friday night, ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly announced the line-of-duty death of 28-year-old ISP Trooper Corey S. Thompsen. State Police say the crash happened on Friday around 3:40 p.m. on East Leverett Road at County Road 1300E. Thompsen was hit in the crash and taken to the hospital where he died from his injuries. The details of the crash are still being investigated.

(Champaign-jm) – Interstate 74 will be getting new pavement, but one ramp will be temporarily closed. The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that the Prospect Ave. ramp to westbound I-74 in Champaign will be temporarily closed beginning today. The ramp will be closing in order to make a safe transition from the ramp for traffic to merge onto the new pavement built on I-74 west of the Prospect Ave./I-74 interchange. Weather permitting, the ramp is scheduled to be closed until Nov. 15.

(Urbana–jc)  –OSF Life Flight, operated by OSF Aviation, LLC, celebrated 40 years of lifesaving service on Friday, October 18. The event marked four decades of critical air-medical transport service throughout Illinois.The celebration included an open house where attendees toured the OSF Life Flight hangar and viewed the newest addition to its fleet, the D3 Airbus H145 helicopter, making for a total of five state-of the-art helicopters. 

(Champaign–dm)-Area farmers have been busy the past few weeks harvesting their crops.  Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady has an update on the progress being made.

Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady.

(Cissna Park–jc)  – One local  Legion group is hosting its annual bazaar on Saturday.The  Cissna Park Legion Auxiliary Post 35-27 event has dozens of vendors on Saturday from 9am to 2pm Various lunch options will also  be available.

(Putnam–jc)A major highway in Putnam is expected to reopen this week after being shut down due to a silo collapse. According to the Putnam County Sheriff's Office, crews have been working for days to take down the silo that failed on Tuesday. Illinois Route 29 has been closed to all commercial traffic. 

(Champaign-jm) – Following the designation of a Certified Welcoming Place nearly a year ago, Champaign City Council accepted a grant to provide services for asylum-seeking migrant refugees. A portion of the grant — about $709,705 — will be awarded to the New American Welcome Center at the University YMCA.

(Sibley-jm) – Several area fire departments battled a shed fire early Sunday morning near Sibley. Firefighters from Sibley, Gibson City, Elliott and Roberts-Melvin battled the blaze at a farm in rural Sibley that started just before 7 am. There's no word on the cause of the fire.

(Buckley–jc)  The WPXN Business of the Day today is Edge Insurance-Abbe Insurance. Abbe Insurance's Larry Abbe says now is the time to look at changes in your medicare coverage...

Many seniors are frustrated with the process, but Abbe says he is there to help...

Abbe Insurance Agent Larry Abbe

. Any changes must be made by December 7th.  Call Larry Abbe at 217-249-2567

His office is in the large white building on the south edge of Buckley

Abbe Insurance is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

(The Center Square) – Jury selection is not complete in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, but opening statements are tentatively scheduled to begin this afternoon. The 12-member jury and four alternates were seated Thursday, but two additional alternates are needed.

Judge John Robert Blakey discussed the possibility of placing time limits on questioning of witnesses during the trial if he saw inefficiency. The judge also asked prosecutors and defense attorneys to prepare estimates on how much time they might take with each witness during the trial.

(Champaign County-jm) – Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly Friday announced the line-of-duty death of ISP Trooper Corey S. Thompsen. On Friday, at approximately 3:40 p.m., Trooper Thompsen was involved in a two-vehicle crash on East Leverett Road at County Road 1300E in Champaign County. The details of the crash are still under investigation. Trooper Thompsen was taken to an area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries at 4:32 p.m. Trooper Thompsen was 28 years old and served almost five years as an officer with ISP. He is survived by his wife, mother, and father.

(Champaign County-jm) – A field fire on Saturday burnt over 120 acres in Champaign County. Firefighters with the Broadlands-Longview Fire Protection District said they responded to County Road 400 and County Road 2400 around 4:30 on Saturday afternoon. 13 Fire Departments responded to the fire. It also took over 2,000 gallons of water to put the fire out. Another field fire occurred on Sunday in Vermilion County. That fire happened on a rural farm near Rossville

(Mt Carmel–jc)  The Illinois State Police are investigating an officer-involved shooting in Mt. Carmel. On Oct. 10, officers with the Mt. Carmel Police Department responded to a domestic dispute call. During the response, investigators said officers encountered a juvenile suspect armed with a knife. The officer fired his weapon, striking the teen and another juvenile. Uriah Howder died at the hospital at the age of 16. The officer has been placed on administrative leave.

(Westville-jm) – A Westville man will spend 14 years in prison after pleading guilty to Dissemination of Child Pornography. Grant Pate received the sentence in Vermilion County court after authorities recovered over 400 pornographic images and videos of children. Pate will be on mandatory supervised release once he has served his sentence.

(Crescent City-jm) – Students at Crescent City Grade School will not be in attendance today and tomorrow due to the townwide boil order. According to the Crescent-Iroquois CUSD #249 Facebook page, junior high and high school Bryce and Danforth students will have school as usual.

(Chicago–jc)  –With myriad proposals to address Illinois' unfunded pension liability, some are looking at a tax increase. Others want pensioners to pony up.The Better Government Association hosted a pension roundtable in Chicago this week to take up ideas to address Illinois' $140 billion unfunded liability. Among the issues discussed were how Tier II pensions, or benefit plans for public employees in Illinois hired after 2011, may need to be addressed because  they  may not comply with Social Security rules. Another suggestion is to increase the income tax to focus on increased pension payments. Illinois has a $140 billion unfunded pension liability taxpayers are on the hook for.  It's not expected anything substantive would happen until sometime in the new legislative session next year.

(Will County–jc)  –An Illinois State Trooper has been awarded the Illinois Law Enforcement Medal of Honor.According to Illinois State Police, Brian Frank was seriously injured in February 2021 due to a driver not complying with the move-over law. Frank had responded to a crash on Interstate 55 in Will County and parked his squad car behind the crashed vehicles. A driver hit the back of his car leaving Frank severely injured.

(Rio–jc)  –One of our country's top competitors in the world soybean market is currently in its planting season, yet delays are noted in planting progress. Rod Bain reports..

(Chicago–jc)  –  We are still looking for the winner.  Those are the words from officials at the Illinois State Lottery. The Illinois Lottery is seeking the owner of an unclaimed 250-thousand dollar winning Lucky Day Lotto ticket purchased in Chicago last October. The lucky winner has just over a week left to claim the prize. The winning Lucky Day Lotto ticket was purchased for the Oct. 29th 2023 drawing, at Fairplay Finer Foods. The unclaimed Lotto ticket is one of seven Illinois lottery prizes currently unclaimed, all totaling nearly $4.5 million.

(Rantoul–jc)  The village of Rantoul just approved some chemical purchases for the Hap Parker Aquatic Center. With fall and the pool closed, village leaders used an incentive program to save the village on Chlorine supplies and more, says Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith...

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Watseka–jc)  – The Iroquois County Christmas Cantata will return this year under the direction of Jessie Fehland and Erik Parmenter. The cantata will take a different direction as it will mirror Olivet Nazarene University's "Sounds of the Season" Christmas concert.  In order to make the cantata successful, singers are needed. Anyone who has an interest in singing with this group is invited to reach out to iroquoischristmascantata-at- gmail.com  This year's program is "Come Worship the King," with presentations set for December 15th and December 20th in Watseka The first practice is set for 2 p.m. on Sunday in Watseka

(Chicago–jc)  With the bribery and racketeering trial of  former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain underway in Chicago, one local legislator is calling for "ethics" reform. 53rd district State Senator Tom Bennett says ethic reforms are needed in Springfield...

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City

(Hoopeston–jc)  – Today's WPXN Business of the Day is Lithgow Motorsports of Hoopeston. They carry Can-Am A-T-V-s, Spyder Bikes to SkiDoo Snowmobiles. They are also known for their complete parts department. Lithgow Motorsports Owner Phil Lithgow says they also have special pricing on their Dixie Chopper Mowers...

Lithgow says they carry a wide variety of  A-T-Vs and many accessories...

Lithgow Motorsports of Hoopeston Owner Phil Lithgow.

They are located along Route 1 South in Hoopeston. 

(The Center Square) – A new report grades U.S. governors on their fiscal responsibility. The Cato Institute has released its 17th biennial Fiscal Policy Report Card on America's Governors, scoring each state leader according to how much they raised or lowered taxes, and whether they spent conservatively or significantly increased spending.The report looks at data since 2022 for each state and awards an objective grade based on spending, revenue, and tax rate variables. Governors who have cut taxes and spending the most receive the highest grades, while those who have increased taxes and spending the most receive the lowest grades/ Illinois Governor J B Pritzker received a C grade. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds received the best grade and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz received the lowest grade of "F'.

(Illinois–jc) –7-Eleven's parent company has revealed that it plans to close 444 underperforming locations by the end of this year. The company said the underperformance was due to slowing sales fueled by inflation, along with a decrease in foot traffic and decline in spending on cigarettes and convenience items.  The list of closures was not given, but there are 318 7-Eleven locations in Illinois

(The Center Square) – Gun stores across Illinois are preparing for the possible outcome of a federal court striking down the state's gun and magazine ban.

Sometime after Oct. 20, Southern District of Illinois federal Judge Stephen McGlynn could rule on the consolidated case challenging the ban. Some expect he will issue a permanent injunction. This could be his second strike against the law.

On preliminary grounds last year, McGlynn issued an injunction that lasted six days before the appeals court put a hold on his order. The appeals court eventually overturned the preliminary injunction and remanded the case to McGlynn's court to get a final judgment. A bench trial on the case wrapped up Sept. 20. McGlynn gave both sides 30 days to file final briefs on the issues.

(Illinois–jc) –  Apple orchards felt the effect of the massive cicada emergence this year. In addition to the early bloom, many trees were damaged by the influx of cicadas this summer. One apple orchard farmer in central Illinois said his yield dropped by about 60% compared to last year.Cicadas laid their eggs on branches that apples grow on, so the trees were unable to provide the necessary nutrients for the apples to thrive. 

(Undated–jc)  The corn harvest continues to move quickly this fall in East Central Illinois, the state and  beyond. U–S-D-A Meteorologist Brad Rippy has the latest on the corn harvest...

U-S-D-A Meteorologist Brad Rippy

(The Center Square) – After five days of jury selection in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, the court is still looking for a twelfth juror and six alternates. Judge John Robert Blakey is presiding over the case at the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago. No new jurors were added Tuesday or Wednesday. Several potential jurors were dismissed after saying they had knowledge of Madigan and news stories about him.

(The Center Square) – Illinois voters will get a chance to decide whether millionaires in the state should pay an additional tax to address the high property taxes in the Land of Lincoln.The question asks: "Should the Illinois Constitution be amended to create an additional 3% tax on income greater than $1 million for the purpose of dedicating funds raised for property tax relief?" Former Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn is supporting the amendment that he said would raise over $4 billion to put in a property tax relief fund.

(Illinois–jc)  –A bridge connecting Illinois and Missouri has been closed due to a fire raging nearby. According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge that carries Interstate 70 over the Mississippi River will be closed for up to two days due to a fire at a vacant warehouse. The fire was causing a large amount of smoke to hang over the nearby roadways, resulting in potentially dangerous driving conditions.

(Washington–jc)  Food prices were higher in September, again. Gary Crawford reports...

(Undated–jc)  Postal workers rallied across Illinois earlier this week, to demand increased wages and safety protections.The rally came as incidents of letter carriers being beaten, robbed and killed increased, with only about 10% of the more than 2,000 attacks nationwide since 2020 being prosecuted.The Protect Our Letter Carriers Act, if passed, would increase funding for more postal inspectors and resources to prosecute crimes against postal workers. 

(Buckley–jc)  The Buckley Lakeside Fall Festival will feature crafts, yard games, inflatables, food and music. Event Spokesperson Sarah Dean says there is also a scarecrow contest...

Buckley Lakeside Fall Festival Spokesperson Sarah Dean

(Chicago–jc)  –A fourth day of jury selection took place on Tuesday in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker and state Democratic Party Chair Michael Madigan. Judge John Robert Blakey resumed proceedings Tuesday morning at the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago. One additional juror and six alternates are needed to join the eleven jurors who were selected last week.Along with co-defendant Michael McClain, Madigan is charged with 23 counts of bribery, racketeering and official misconduct.

(Rantoul–jc)  There is a new business coming to the village of Rantoul, officially on Wednesday morning. Purcell Appliance Center is opening up in Rantoul at 604 Eagle Drive in Rantoul. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says as Pauls Appliances closed last year, the need for a local appliance store is now filled...

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

A ribbon cutting ceremony is set for this morning at 10.

(Champaign County–jc)  Interstate 74 was down to one lane of traffic Tuesday morning near mile marker 178 due to a road obstruction. Illinois State Police were called to assist at the scene. Police agencies are asking motorists traveling through that area of I-74 in Champaign to use caution as traffic continues to slow down in that construction area.

(Thomasboro–jc)  Today's WPXN Business of the Day is Hoveln Heating Cooling and Plumbing of Thomasboro. The three generation business has served the area since 1977. Hoveln Heating Cooling and Plumbing is a Bryant dealer. They also do geo-thermal projects and more. Their slogan is..."Hoveln, does it right."

Your friends at Hoveln also want to let you know about the changes coming on January First concerning refrigerant regulations. If you have any questions, call Hoveln Heating, Cooling and Plumbing of Thomasboro at 217-643-2125. 

It's fall and its time to check your furnace for the winter.  They also are an area leader in geo-thermal projects, to heat pumps. The  Bryant name of products offered by Hovlen is a solid choice for homeowners seeking a balance of quality, performance, and affordability. Call them today for all your heating, cooling and plumbing needs. The number is 217-643-2125. Hoveln Heating Cooling and Plumbing of Thomasboro is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

(Springfield–jc)  –May the force be with the Illinois State Historical Society. The Springfield-based organization's Facebook page was hacked. The infiltrator shortened the name to just "Historical Society" in September and has posted nothing but Star Wars-themed posts since. The page, which used to share state trivia and historical anniversaries, now features Stars Wars memes and birthday shout outs to cast members. ISHS officials have since created a new Facebook page.

(Cissna Park–jc)  One local village continues to plan for its annual Christmas shopping weekend. Those with the Cissna Park Merchants Committee say their "Small Town Christmas weekend" is set for November 29th and November 30th. A lighted Christmas parade is planned and a townwide to Kellart Lake Christmas House decorating contest is also planned Prizes will be awarded for both the parade and house decorating contests. Cissna Park Businesses will also be busy with holiday specials for shoppers. 

(Washington–jc)  The balance sheets are out concerning  soybean demand. USDA Rod Bain has the story...

(Paxton–jc)  With the holidays approaching, one park district has a facility that can be rented for Christmas parties, meetings and more. The Paxton Park District  Director Jordan Chapman talks about renting the center for public and family events...

Paxton Park District Director Jordan Chapman

Contact number is 217-379-4203.

(Hoffman Estates–jc)  –The Hoffman Estates Police Department updated residents late Tuesday morning, saying the caracal, a medium-sized wild cat native to Africa, the Middle East and parts of Asia, was caught by officers.The cat was found unharmed, hiding under a residential deck. It will be transported to an exotic animal rescue center in southern Wisconsin. Where the animal came from is still a mystery.

(Paxton–jc)  The Gibson Area Hospital Foundation is hosting a fundraiser on Friday October 25th in Paxton and Saturday October 26th in Gibson City.  It's "Glo Bingo."  Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee and Community Events Bill Kirby says its a fun and energetic way to raise money for  the foundation...

Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee and Community Events Bill Kirby.
Tickets are available on-line.

(Illinois–jc)  – Dry and windy conditions led to field fires around Illinois over the weekend and Monday. The National Weather Service issued an elevated fire danger for multiple counties in central Illinois. A large fire overtook a field in Sullivan on Sunday afternoon. According to the Sullivan Fire Protection District, firefighters from Sullivan, Bethany and Lovington responded to reports of a fire about 2:30 p.m. About the same time, the Argenta-Oreana Fire Department battled a field fire northeast of Decatur. Field fires this harvest season have also occurred in Northern Champaign, Ford and Iroquois Counties including a combine fire near Paxton last week.

(Decatur–jc)  – A fire caused damages at the Decatur based A-D-M plant on Monday. Firefighters were called to the plant just after 3pm on Monday. No injuries and no damage report was provided. 

(Springfield-jc) Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Revenue  have temporarily waived the International Fuel Tax Agreement  registration and motor fuel use tax  single trip permitting for qualified motor vehicles engaged in interstate disaster relief efforts as a result of Hurricanes Milton & Helene.  The suspension of fees started over the weekend and runs through November 9th The suspension of fees affects  qualified motor vehicles traveling into or through Illinois responding specifically to power, communications, utilities and infrastructure restoration to areas that fall under the declaration of emergency.

(Kankakee–jc)  A survivor of sexual violence support group is set to meet on Tuesdays at 6pm in Kankakee. Clove Alliance serves residents of Kankakee Iroquois and Ford County and Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracy Noe-Slah

('No-ee Slaw) says the meetings will help those survivors...

Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracy Noe-Slah

More information is found on line or by contacting the offices in Kankakee, Watseka or Paxton

(Chicago–jc)  –The investigation continues after dozens of people rushed a railyard in Chicago and stole items from a parked freight train. Groups were seen carrying boxes from trains and loading them into nearby vehicles last week. Several arrests have been made, and Union Pacific officials said they are working with their agents and local police to identify more suspects as the investigation continues this morning.

( The Center Square) The wealthiest person in Illinois doesn't break into the top-20 richest people in the country. According to the Forbes 400, Lukas Walton's net worth has risen to nearly $34 billion, leaving him as the richest person in Illinois and the 25th richest nationally. Walton is the grandson of Walmart founder Sam Walton. Patrick Ryan, CEO and founder of Ryan Specialty Holdings, ranks second in Illinois with a fortune of $12.3 billion. Gov. J.B. Pritzker's net worth of $3.7 billion ranks him  359th nationally.

(Chicago–jc)  –  One former Illinois Governor wants ethics reforms as a jury continues tomorrow in the Madigan-McClain  racketeering case. WPXN's Joel Cluver has the story...

(Paxton–jc)  – Today's WPXN Business of the Day is The Pop Loft in Paxton. The local shop has everything from fresh flowers and chocolates to Balloon Creations and more. Store Owner Samantha "Sam" Magers says the idea for the store started with balloons...

Samantha "Sam" Magers  talks about improvements and upgrades coming to their location on South Market Street in Paxton. ...

The Pop Loft in Paxton Store Owner Samantha "Sam" Magers.

(Chicago–jc)  –An Illinois school has made the top ten in a study of the best colleges and universities in the country. The personal finance website WalletHub compared more than 800 higher-education institutions in the U.S. across 30 key measures. Northwestern University in Evanston was ranked 9th best in the nation. The University of Chicago came in at No. 26, and the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana was ranked 62nd.

(Ford-Iroquois–jc)  –  With the dry conditions this harvest season, several safety concerns arise for farmers. Issues range from crop dust, to slow farm vehicles on the roads. Ford Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Kacie Claire says everyone will need to slow down and be aware...

Ford Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Kacie Claire.

(The Center Square) – The bribery and racketeering trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan is set to resume  this morning with more questioning of potential jurors. Prosecutors and defense attorneys for Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain spent three days interviewing prospective jurors last week. Taraleigh Davis, assistant professor of Public Law and Political Science at Bradley University, told The Center Square it is not surprising that several people spent more than 30 minutes answering questions. 11 jurors have been selected so far as one more and alternates will be selected today and tomorrow.

(Metropolis–jc)  –The Fort Massac Encampment, which has drawn thousands of visitors to southern Illinois every fall for 50 years, will return to Fort Massac State Park in Metropolis Saturday and Sunday. Since 1974, the encampment festival has provided visitors with a chance to experience what life was like at Fort Massac during the 18th and early 19th centuries. The fort served as a frontier outpost along the Ohio River for personnel from France, Britain and the early years of the United States from 1757 to 1814.

(Normal–jc)  –The Illinois State University Board of Trustees and President Aondover Tarhule will host a dedication ceremony and reception on Thursday,  at 2 p.m., for the new Mennonite College of Nursing Simulation Center. The ceremony will take place at 301 Normal Avenue in Normal.  Following a ribbon cutting, tours of the new facility will be offered. The $18 million construction project was approved by the Board of Trustees in 2021, provides much-needed space and allows the Mennonite College of Nursing to enroll more students at a time when demand for nurses is high.

(Rantoul–dm)-A semi fire (property damage only) along I-57 Northbound near Milepost 248.5 (south of Rantoul) caused the right lane to be blocked and also caused traffic slowdowns on Thursday afternoon. Vehicles were backed up for several hours.

(The Center Square) – As Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Senate President Don Harmon and House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch return from a Japan trip working to attract new investment in Illinois, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson jetted off to London.Before taking the trip to Japan last week, Pritzker said his goal is to bring more businesses back to Illinois from all over the world. He said there hasn't been such an effort in around 40 years.Pritzker said his goal was to let investors around the world know about Illinois' workforce, education, infrastructure and reliable energy.

(Springfield–dm)- The Illinois State Police will be partnering with Faith Based organizations across the state this weekend during the National Faith and Blue weekend.  WPXN's Dan Mushrush has the story.

(Center Square)-Firefighters from Illinois are headed to Florida to help with the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. Sixty firefighters from Monroe and St. Clair counties, along with engines and gear, will be in the Tampa area for 15 days responding to local emergency calls. Three million people are without power after the storm came ashore Wednesday night. The Saybrook Fire Department has donated a fire truck they no longer need to the relief effots in North Carolina. Workers from Paxton based Eastern Illini Electric Cooperative have been in Georgia for over two weeks and a second crew is now in that area for the next several weeks.

(Springfield-jm) – New data out is raising concerns about the number of migrants getting arrested in the United States. Among those raising concerns are Illinois Senate Republicans including 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet...

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet.

(The Center Square) – Jury selection is proceeding in the bribery and racketeering trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain at the Dirksen U. S. Courthouse in Chicago. Prosecutors and defense attorneys questioned five jurors in the first two hours of Thursday's proceedings. Three jurors were seated on Wednesday. Judge John Robert Blakey said that the court's "aspiration" is for opening arguments to begin next Tuesday. Madigan is facing 23 counts of bribery, racketeering and official misconduct. The longtime Chicago Democrat served in the Illinois House from 1971 to 2021.

(Paxton–jc)  It's Flu Shot season and one local pharmacy is set to get you in and out with your flu shot. Hudson Drug and Hallmark of Paxton owner Andy Hudson says no appointments are needed for the shots, just stop by...

Hudson Drug and Hallmark Owner Andy Hudson

(Watseka–jc)  –The Iroquois County Public Health Department has changed their regularly scheduled Board of Health meeting. The Board of Health will now meet at 6 pm on November 6th. This meeting will be held in the county board room at the Iroquois County Administrative Center located at 1001 East Grant Street, in Watseka . An agenda will be posted on the Iroquois County website, iroquoiscountyil.gov, at least 48 hours in advance of each meeting.

(Rantoul–jc)  –  Today's WPXN Business of the Day is Hardy's Reindeer Ranch of Rantoul. Hardys Reindeer Ranch started in 1995 by Julie and Mark Hardy as they purchased several reindeer to help sell Christmas trees. The ranch has now evolved into a major attraction featuring a huge corn maze, to hayrides, paintball and delicious food. Hardy Reindeer Ranch owner Mark Hardy says the days starts early each morning with the reindeer, and the public arrives throughout the day...

Mark Hardy talks about taking care of the reindeer, daily.

Hardy's Reindeer Ranch Owner Mark Hardy. More about Hardy's Reindeer Ranch is found on-line

(Chicago-jm) – Senate Republicans in Illinois are calling for an audit of a state run child facility in northern Illinois. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City says the facility has had several reports of abuse that need to be addressed...

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Paxton–jc)  A "fall" gathering is set for tomorrow in the city of Paxton. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says over 500 people attended last year and more are expected this year...

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

The day starts with a pancake breakfast at 8 on Saturday morning at Veterans Square. 

(Champaign–dm)- White Construction will close Anthony Drive between Dobbins Drive and Campbell Drive. Both eastbound and westbound Anthony Drive traffic will be detoured in the area.  The closure will occur between the hours of 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., starting on Monday, October 14, and ending on Friday, October 18, 2024, weather permitting. Access will be maintained to all local properties.

(Rantoul–jc) One local Christian school is set for its fall fundraiser on Sunday. St Malachy School in Rantoul will host their Fall Festival on Sunday from 11am to 3pm at the school. A turkey dinner, kids zone, auction, bake sale and vendors hilite the day at St Malachy School in Rantoul on Sunday

(The Center Square) — Three utilities are uniquely coming together for the first time to address energy challenges within the  Interconnection footprint in the midwest and some southern states. Dominion Energy Virginia, American Electric Power and FirstEnergy Corp. – three major, multi-state utility providers active in these states – are entering into an "innovative joint planning agreement to propose several new regional electric transmission projects," according to a Dominion press release. The arrangement is a "first-of-its-kind collaboration," according to Dominion spokesperson Aaron Ruby, prompted by the singular position in which PJM – and much of America, in fact – finds itself.  A May study by the Americans for a Clean Energy Grid found that the regional transmission organization has to engage in "proactive, scenario-based, long-term planning" if it will meet anticipated energy needs. The demand for energy is skyrocketing, and projected demand for the next decade will keep multiplying due to ubiquitous electrification and the proliferation of data centers facilitating the A-I boom

(Watseka–jc)  –The Iroquois County Public Health Department has changed their regularly scheduled Board of Health meeting. The Board of Health will now meet at 6 pm on November 6th. This meeting will be held in the county board room at the Iroquois County Administrative Center located at 1001 East Grant Street, in Watseka . An agenda will be posted on the Iroquois County website, iroquoiscountyil.gov, at least 48 hours in advance of each meeting.

(Central Illinois–jc)  –Over a century after it was last seen, an endangered species has been found alive in Central Illinois. The salamander mussel was last spotted 120 years ago, but on Oct. 2, two conservation biologists from the Illinois Natural History Survey found both the salamander mussel and its host, the mudpuppy, in the Sangamon River. The salamander mussel is less than two inches long and normally lives under rocks in rivers. 

WPXN News notes..

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold a foodmobile on Friday, October 11th from 9-10 am at the Fountain Valley Mobile Home basketball courts and from 10:30-11 at the Ludlow community center.

The Ford County Public Health Department will hold a flu clinic at the Elliott Amvets on Friday, October 11th from 1-3 pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, October 11th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10 per plate.

The Onarga Lions Club will hold their pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturday, October 12th from 7-11 am at Nexus Family Healing in Onarga.

The 2024 Paxton Fall Gathering will take place on Saturday, October 12th from 9-4 in downtown Paxton. Activities include a pancake and sausage breakfast, vendor and artisan booths, pop up pumpkin patch, live music and more.

Christ Lutheran High School in Buckley will be cooking pork burgers at Hometown Family Foods in Gilman on Saturday from 9-1.

Paxton IGA will hold a cookout benefiting LIA Auxiliary on Saturday, October 12th from 10-2.

(Springfield-jm) – With early voting underway, a former Illinois governor is traveling across the state to inform people about a property tax question on the ballot. Every voter will be asked if the state constitution should be amended to provide property tax relief. Lawmakers and candidates for office constantly hear property taxes are a major problem for voters, but no one has been able to find a solution for the complicated system in Illinois. Pat Quinn said over 3 million households in Illinois paid more than $23.2 billion in property taxes last year. Voters will be asked if the Illinois constitution should be amended to create an additional 3% tax for millionaires to provide relief for everyone else.

(Roberts–jc)  The next Ford County Natural Hazards Mitigation meeting is set for next week in Roberts. Ford County Emergency Management Agency Coordinator Terry Whitebird says topics will include severe weather preparedness and more...

Ford County Emergency Management Agency Coordinator Terry Whitebird.

The meet takes place on Tuesday October 15th at 6pm in the Roberts Gym

(Champaign County-jm) – A committee of the Champaign County Board is considering a zoning ordinance on carbon sequestration activities in county limits for the next 12 months. The Environmental and Land Use Committee will discuss the ordinance today, according to an agenda posted on the county's website. Environmental advocates say prevention of such projects is important to protect the Mahomet Aquifer. Two advocates previously presented about the dangers of carbon capture polluting a single source aquifer at the August ELUC meeting.

(Springfield–jc)  –  Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie has filed legislation in Springfield to require proof of citizenship during voter registration.

The Republican from Savanna says the bill is a proactive step toward enhancing voter integrity...

Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie. This is House Bill 58-87

(Kankakee–jc)  – A Kankakee man has been sentenced to ten years in prison in a federal case involving drugs and the mail. Prosecutors said Javan Thompson used the U.S. Mail in an attempt to obtain fentanyl and cocaine for distribution. A package was intercepted containing thousands of fentanyl pills and several hundred grams of cocaine. Federal law provides for a minimum of ten years in prison when fentanyl is involved.  

(Chicago–jc)  –Jury selection is underway in the corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan. Judge John Robert Blakey opened the proceedings just before 9 Wednesday morning at the Dirksen U. S. Courthouse in Chicago. Blakey said that all jurors who were scheduled to appear Wednesday did appear. Blakey told jurors that the court would move as fairly and efficiently as possible to honor their sacrifice. He also explained juror rules of conduct. Madigan is facing 23 counts of bribery, racketeering and official misconduct. Both Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain were present in court Wednesday morning.

(Undated–jc)  Illinois State troopers provided a safety enforcement along Interstate 57 earlier this month. WPXN's Joel Cluver has the details...

(Kankakee–jc)  Clove Alliance is the WPXN business of the day. The Non-profit assists survivors of sexual violence. Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracey Noe-Slah ('no-ee-slaw) says their group serves Kankakee Iroquois and Ford Counties with a variety of needed services...

A crisis hot line number is set up, to help those in need......

Clove Alliance Executive Director Tracy Noe Slah

A support group for sexual violence survivors begins meetings on Tuesday in Kankakee. More information is found on-line.

(Springfield-jm) – The state of Illinois is going after another social media company. Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced that Illinois is joining 13 other states in a lawsuit against the social media platform TikTok. The lawsuit claims TikTok includes design features that they say make children addicted to the platform. Joining the lawsuit were California, the District of Columbia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, New Jersey, Oregon, South Carolina, Vermont and Washington.

(Buckley–jc)  The village of Buckley will hold a "fall Fest" coming later this month. Buckley Community Group Spokesperson Sarah Dean says its music, inflatables, crafts and more...

Buckley Community Group Spokesperson Sarah Dean. The event takes place at Buckley Lake on October 19th

(Gifford-jm) – Wednesday afternoon, a combine caught fire in Champaign County. Just before 3:00 p.m., a fire was reported in a field in Gifford just off of County Road 2700 North. The Gifford Fire Department said there was no serious damage to the field or the combine, which is used to harvest beans in the field.

(Urbana-jm) – The University of Illinois Police Department is investigating after a student came forward to report a sexual assault. Officials issued a campus safety notice on Wednesday, saying they were informed of the assault the prior day. It happened at approximately 1 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 1 in a campus residence hall. The offender is a person who the victim met through a dating app.

(Paxton–jc)  The second group of Eastern Illini workers are in the state of Georgia to help coop members get the power back on and restore electric services after the first round of Hurricanes has hit the Florida-Georgia and Carolina areas. Eastern Illini Electric Cooperative Vice President of Operations Brad Smith says the local workers will be busy setting poles and more...

Eastern Illini Electric Cooperative Vice President of Operations Brad Smith. 

The first crew is getting back to Paxton after helping for around 2 weeks.

(Bloomington–jc)  –Rivian production lines have reduced production due to supply shortages, but there have not been any layoffs ahead of the November election.

According to Rivian employees, the R-1 production lines are down to three days a week, which means employees aren't making electric vehicles on Mondays and Fridays.Rivian confirmed the production disruption of both the R-1 and R-C-V lines. Rivian said it was due to a supply shortage of a shared component. Rivian would not confirm if the component is copper wire used to make the electric motors. Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski said the Illinois-backed tax incentive package valued at $827 million over 30 years for Rivian is Gov. J.B. Pritzker gambling with taxpayer funds.

(Rantoul–jc)  The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce is welcoming a new business to the village. A ribbon cutting ceremony is set for Wednesday at 10 am for the Purcell Appliance Center. They are located at 604 Eagle Drive Suite 105 in the village.  Purcell Appliance Center may be reached by calling 217-892-7500

WPXN News Note...

The Ford County Public Health Department will hold a flu clinic at the Moyer District Library in Gibson City today from 1-4pm.

(Chicago-jm) – Potential jurors have reported to federal court in Chicago for the upcoming corruption trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and co-defendant Michael McClain. Madigan is facing 23 counts of bribery, racketeering and official misconduct. Jurors were instructed to fill out questionnaires on Tuesday morning. Attorneys are scheduled to report to court this afternoon to discuss any pretrial issues, but Madigan is not required to appear. The trial is expected to last about ten weeks.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul has announced that his office filed a lawsuit against TikTok for its harmful business practices targeting children and allegedly deceiving the public about the social media platform's dangers. The lawsuit stems from a bipartisan nationwide investigation announced by Raoul in 2022. Illinois' action seeks injunctive relief to address TikTok's misconduct as well as monetary penalties. In addition to Illinois' lawsuit, 13 other states filed separate enforcement actions against TikTok for violations of state consumer protection laws.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois Republicans are addressing concerns about immigrants with criminal records. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City has more...

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Paxton-jm) – Ward three residents in Paxton have a new alderman. Matt Greenburg was sworn in last night to fill the vacancy left after the resignation of Kendall Cox.

(Rantoul–jc)  –  Fall is here and village projects in Rantoul continue. From sewer lines and some street work, Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says even with the projects, business traffic and events at the Rantoul Sports Complex to Hardy's Reindeer Ranch continue to bring people to Rantoul...

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Cissna Park–jc)  The Annual Cissna Park F F A Scholarship Auction is set for next month. Cissna Park F F A Advisor Jeff Clifton says they are gathering items now for auction day on November 16th...

Cissna Park F F A Advisor Jeff Clifton

(Chicago -jc )  –  Attorney General Kwame Raoul on Tuesday announced that a Vermilion County woman pleaded guilty and was sentenced for animal cruelty in a case prosecuted by the Attorney General's office.Vermilion County Circuit Court. Judge Karen Wall sentenced Crystal Calbro, 44, of Danville, to 12 months court supervision. Calbro is also prohibited from owning horses, rabbits and donkeys and is required to undergo a psychological evaluation. Wall also required Calbro to pay a fine of $2,200 and submit restitution in the amount of $44,718 to the Vermilion County Department of Animal Regulation. Following disturbing observations made in March 2023 relating to the health of animals under Calbro's care, the Vermilion County Department of Animal Regulation seized eight horses, two rabbits and one donkey from Calbro's property. The animals were kept in cramped quarters without access to adequate food or clean water. All animals were all found,  showing various signs of emotional and physical neglect.

(Paxton–jc)  Today's WPXN Business of the Day is Paxton Mainstreet. The local civic group has their annual Fall Gathering and Vendor Show at Veterans Square in downtown Paxton.  Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says the event is for the entire family...

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says a pancake and sausage breakfast starts the day at 8am on Saturday...

The vendor show and pumpkin patch open at 9am

 Paxton Mainstreet Group is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

(Bloomington-jm) – State Farm is removing electric vehicle chargers from its parking decks at their corporate headquarters in Bloomington and around the country because of a fire risk. The company told employees it will consider plans for alternative locations outside of parking garages. The move will become effective as of Oct. 28.

(Springfield-jm) – The largest water and wastewater utility company in the country has been hit by a cyberattack. American Water, which serves 14 states including Illinois, became informed of "unauthorized activity" in its computer networks and systems. The company said it was forced to temporarily pause billing for its customers. Officials said they have contacted law enforcement  and are cooperating with the investigation.

(Springfield-jm) – New data out is raising concerns about the number of migrants getting arrested in the United States. Among those raising concerns are Illinois Senate Republicans including 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet...

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet.

(Champaign-jm) – A man from Champaign is facing federal charges of threatening a judge, and the judge he allegedly threatened could be the one who presided over Donald Trump's classified documents case. Eric James Rennert, 65, was indicted Sept. 25 on six counts — three of interstate transmission of threats and three of threatening to assault, kidnap and murder a United States judge. The threats were made on May 25 and St. Lucie County, Fla. was the place the threats were sent to.

(Gilman–jc)  The busy harvest time continues in East Central Illinois. From field to elevator, farm equipment and grain trucks on the road, to long hours of operation. Ford Iroquois Farm Bureau Manager Kacie Claire says all in the fields and on the roads need to be extra careful...

Ford Iroquois Farm Bureau Manager Kacie Claire

(Monticell0–jc)  – Residents in the Monticello area will soon have increased access to primary care through a new OSF Medical Group clinic at 777 Bridge Street. Amber Oberheim, A-P-N, a longtime Monticello resident, is expected to begin seeing patients this winter. People of all ages can see Oberheim for a variety of primary care issues including annual physicals, chronic and acute illnesses, mental health concerns and more. Other health care providers will staff the clinic to provide vaccines and lab work.

(Paxton–jc)  One local electric cooperative is sending another crew to a southeast area of the country to help with the ongoing hurricanes. Eastern Illini Electric Coop, based in Paxton, sent an initial crew around 2 weeks ago to help in rural parts of Georgia affected by a hurricane. Eastern Illini Electric Cooperative Vice President of Operations Brad Smith says the next crew is on their way...

Eastern Illini Electric Cooperative Vice President of Operations Brad Smith.

Hurricane Milton is expected to cause major damage in Florida, Georgia and beyond later today and tomorrow. 

(Champaign County-jm) – It has officially been a year since the Pre-Trial Fairness Act went into effect in the state of Illinois. Dustin Heuerman, the Champaign County Sheriff, said overall they've seen a decrease in inmate population, but an increase in transportation duties since the Act requires detention hearings to be in-person. The biggest challenge, however, is revenue. Without bail money coming in, it leaves the question of how jails are currently running? He said Champaign County is looking for other sources of revenue because of this.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Public Health is reminding the public that along with fall, October brings the start of the traditional respiratory virus season. The department is urging Illinoisans to use the proven tools that can safeguard them from illnesses that typically surge during the fall and winter, including COVID-19, flu and RSV. This includes getting vaccinated to protect yourself and your family for those viral diseases if you are eligible.

(Chicago-jm) – Today is Day One of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's and co-defendant Michael McClain's trial on racketeering and bribery charges. U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois John Lausch announced a federal jury's indictment of Madigan on March 2, 2022. The trial is expected to last about 10 weeks.

(Washington-jm) – A federal agency has joined the growing number of banks and credit unions opposing an Illinois law banning swipe fees. WPXN's Dan Mushrush has the story...

Your favorite coffee shop or boutique only receives a portion of the money each time you swipe at a register due to interchange fees. Illinois is set to ban swipe fees on July 1, but bank leaders claim it could cause chaos. Oral arguments for the federal court case are scheduled to begin October 30.

(Springfield-jm) – New data out is raising concerns about the number of migrants getting arrested in the United States. Among those raising concerns are Illinois Senate Republicans including 51st District State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet...

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet.

(Penfield-jm) – Firefighters from multiple departments battled a house fire in Penfield Monday. It happened near Franklin and South Streets. No one was home at the time of the fire.

(Paxton–dm)-Jaxon Peacock, a Paxton Buckley Loda Junior High School Student, recently had to have a double lung transplant. On October 29th at the Paxton Buckley Loda Jr. High girls basketball game, there will be a Raffle for Baskets to help raise funds to help defray the cost of the surgery.  PBL Junior High School Guidance Counselor Stacey Johnson has information if you would like to donate...

Paxton Buckley Loda  Junior High Guidance Counselor Stacey Johnson

(Iroquois County-jm) – The Eastern Illinois Mutual Aid/MABAS 37 fire chiefs have enacted a burn ban for all of Iroquois County effective immediately. The extremely dry conditions coupled with high winds have created a possibility for large scale and possible deadly field fires. Please refrain from any form of burning until further notice. They also strongly encourage all farmers to have tools hooked to tractors immediately available in whatever field they are working.

(Washington-jm) – Most USDA crop progress categories for corn appear to be above average for this time of year, per the Agriculture Department's latest report. Rod Bain reports...

(Undated-jm) – Average gasoline prices in Illinois have fallen 7.4 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.40/g today, according to GasBuddy. Prices in Illinois are 13.1 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 26.5 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average price of diesel is unchanged from a week ago and stands at $3.54 per gallon.

(CHAMPAIGN —dm)-In order to complete a pole installation near 301 E. University Avenue, AT&T will close one eastbound lane of University Avenue in Champaign between Third Street and Fourth Street.  The closure will occur on Thursday,, and will reopen on Friday,. During the closure, eastbound traffic will be reduced to one lane.

(Gibson CIty–jc) – Today's WPXN Business of the Day is the Gibson Area Hospital Foundation. They are the fundraising arm of the hospital. The group has a special event coming up in Paxton and Gibson City this month. It's "Glo Bingo."

Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee and Community Events Bill Kirby says the foundation continues to be a big part of expansion projects at the hospital...

 Kirby says Glo Bingo is a fun way to raise funds...

Gibson Area Hospital Director of Employee and Community Events Bill Kirby. Glo Bingo tickets and tables are available for both the Cadillac in Paxton on October 25th and the Kruse Center in Gibson City on the 26th. Tickets are available on line or by contacting the hospital.  The Gibson Area Hospital Foundation is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

(Springfield-jm) – Governor JB Pritzker has proclaimed this week as Fire Prevention Week in Illinois. According to the National Fire Protection Association, working smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than half, 54% to be exact. Meanwhile, roughly three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. Sadly in 2023 there were 89 residential fire deaths in Illinois with the majority of these deaths occurring in homes without working smoke alarms.

(Decatur-jm) – Following another leak at the Archer Daniels Midland carbon injection facility in Decatur some are looking for more protections for water supplies. In September, the U.S. EPA announced a proposed enforcement against ADM for alleged violations of the Safe Drinking Water Act after a fluid leak. At that time, state Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet urged for his measure protecting aquifers from carbon dioxide injections be passed. The Protect the Mahomet Aquifer Coalition said another leak at ADM revealed weeks later shows the importance of bills to prohibit carbon sequestration activity around aquifers. The group is advocating for action from the statehouse after the November election with bills from state Representative Carol Ammons of Urbana, and state Senator Paul Farci of Champaign, "to prohibit carbon sequestration activity over, under, or through a sole-source aquifer" to be discussed during veto session.

(Undated-jm) – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City has some stats and these tips...

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Urbana-jm) – The College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois invites the community to Celebrate Food and Ag Day on Saturday before the Illinois vs. Purdue football game. Enjoy family-friendly activities that honor the vital contributions of the food and agriculture industry. The events will last from noon to 2 p.m. at Grange Grove.

(Champaign County-jm) – County Road 1400N will be closed between 600E (Barker Rd) and 700E (Rising Rd) Wednesday, October 9, and Thursday, October 10, for constructing the bridge approach pavement. No marked detour will be signed. Local landowners within the construction area will have access to their property but should drive with extreme caution while near the work zone.

(Paxton–jc)  A new scoreboard at Nelson Field in Paxton is expected very soon. Paxton Park District Director Jordan Chapman says the Johnson family made the donation for the scoreboard in honor of their father, Wendell Johnson...

Paxton Park District Director Jordan Chapman.

(Buckley-jm) – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that, weather permitting, Interstate 57 at the Buckley interchange will be closed for four consecutive nights starting tonight. The closure is necessary to demolish the north half of the Iroquois County Highway 9 bridge over I-57. The closures will begin at 9 p.m. each night and end at 5 a.m. the following morning. 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 south half of the bridge and traffic at the intersections will be controlled by flaggers.

(Washington-jm) – Leave dropping and harvest rates continue to grow week over week as this year's soybean crop reaches maturity. Rod Bain reports...

(Paxton-jm) – The Loda American Legion, received a check for $3808 from Paxton IGA for the Wreaths Across America project through the Round Up program. The Round Up program provides opportunities for customers to give back to the community and helps non-profits and charities earn money. Customers are asked if they'd like to "round up" their bill to the next dollar and donate the difference to the designated charity. The IGA also picks one week during the month-long drive to match all customer donations. The IGA Round Up promotion is for local "non-profits" or "community minded" organizations or projects that benefit larger parts of the whole community that don't have the greatest fundraising abilities. Since the inception of round up the total amount customers contributed, plus store match is $112,639

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Secretary of State's Office said it recently discovered that approximately 5,400 Illinois residents who had sought to register to vote at DMVs were never added to the voting rolls because of a 2019 computer coding issue related to REAL IDs. The coding error was revealed by the agency as part of its ongoing effort to update outdated technology. Officials said they have never received any reports that any of those individuals were prohibited from voting.

(Springfield-jm) – Several groups have filed legal challenges against an Illinois law regarding interchange fees. The Interchange Fee Prohibition Act doesn't ban or restrict credit card swipe fees, but it limits banks from charging interchange fees on tax and tip revenues. The law, which was backed by the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, was the first such statute in the country. Banking trade groups argued in court that the law would "throw well-operating payment card systems into chaos."

(Ford County-jm) – Fire departments across the area were busy battling fires Sunday. Roberts-Melvin firefighters were called to a combine fire. Gibson City and Sibley firefighters battled a ditch fire. Elliott firefighters were also called to a combine fire. Milford firefighters battled a field fire started by a cigarette. Dozens of fire departments were called to battle multiple fields that caught fire near Herscher.

(Sheldon-jm) – On Friday the U.S. Marshals Service Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force arrested Esteban Saenz, age 44, at a residence in Sheldon. Saenz, who was wanted on an outstanding Iroquois County felony arrest warrant, was taken into custody without incident. Subsequent to that arrest, Iroquois County Sheriff's Office Detectives executed a search warrant at the residence. During the execution of that search warrant, detectives recovered narcotics, U.S. currency, and a firearm. As a result, Coty R. Huckleby, age 36, of Sheldon was also taken into custody. Esteban Saenz was charged with Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver. Coty R. Huckleby was charged with Unlawful Possession of Weapon by Felon.

(Kankakee–jc)  Clove Alliance is offering a free support group for survivors of sexual violence. WPXN's Joel Cluver has the story...

(Champaign-jm) – Parkland College announced further expansion of its nationally recognized apprentice program to train and develop collision repair technicians. 

Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District, the 24th-largest employer in Champaign County, has agreed to support Parkland's Collision Repair Technology program by sponsoring a U.S. Department of Labor-registered apprentice in its Urbana bus maintenance facility this fall. The program will combine on-the-job training with an experienced MTD mentor along with Parkland's Associate in Applied Science degree instruction in Collision Repair Technology. After completing the program, graduates will receive a nationally recognized journey worker certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor and a degree from Parkland. The college has additional collision training apprenticeships with local companies.

(Paxton–jc)  –  The 2024  Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce Wine and Chocolate Walk was a huge success on Saturday. Hudson Drug and Hallmark Store Owner Andy Hudson talks about the success of the city...

Hudson Drug and Hallmark Owner Andy Hudson

For the Paxton Chamber Wine and Chocolate Walk, the Best Dessert went to AnnRose Boutique, the Best Beverage to the Leading Edge Salon and the Best Theme to the Paxton Mercantile. The event was sold out and the chamber is looking to do the event again, next year. 

(Paxton–jc)  The WPXN Business of the day today is Monical's Pizza of Paxton. They are the home of the "Family Pleaser." The monical's brand has been around since 1959, starting in Tolono. Monical's Pizza of Paxton Manager Jason Mills says they have a weekly special on Monday's after 4pm with a large pizza up to 4 toppings for 14 dollars...

The Paxton location of Monicals pizza offers fundraiser days for local charities.  Monical's Pizza of Paxton Manager Jason Mills says those interested can call the Paxton Monicals for information...

Monicals Pizza of Paxton Manager Jason Mills

The number for carryouts is 217-379-4835.

Monicals Pizza of Paxton is the WPXN Business of the day, today

(Will County-jm) – Federal and local elected officials are concerned about Illinois' farmland being bought up by foreign nations. A 3,600-acre solar plant is expected to arrive in Custer Park, Illinois. The largest solar plant in Illinois is 4,100 acres. Some Illinois landowners offered to lease their land to ACCIONA, a Spanish multinational renewable energy conglomerate, to develop the solar energy plant. Residents that live near the proposed project fear for their food security being that the land will be leased to a Spanish multinational renewable energy conglomerate. 

(Chicago-jm) – Illinois Senate Republicans are demanding an audit of the state's child welfare agency after a new series of alleged abuses were reported. Injustice Watch, a nonprofit news agency focused on Cook County courts, reported the taxpayer funded Aunt Martha's Integrated Care Center is subject to thousands of reports of violence including allegations of sexual and physical abuse of children and conflicts of interest. On Friday, Senate Minority Leader John Curran, called for an investigation by the Illinois Auditor General. 

(Gifford-jm) – The Gifford Fire Department is warning about the dangers of UTVs following two incidents over the weekend. They say both incidents resulted in injuries. They warn people to use caution when operating those machines.

(St. Joseph-jm) – Officials with the Illinois State Police said their investigation into a crash that closed part of I-74 on Saturday for a few hours mid-afternoon showed it involved three vehicles. They say the crash happened around 2:12 p.m. near milepost 190 off Interstate 74 eastbound, in Champaign County. A gold Lincoln, a white Ford F-250, and a Black Chevrolet Tahoe were involved. Three people were taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. All lanes re-opened at 3:55 p.m.

(Paxton–jc)  –  The Paxton Mainstreet Group Fall Gathering is set for Saturday. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says its pumpkins, mums and more...

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper.

(Champaign-jm) – Discover what Parkland College has to offer through its academic programs, campus life, support services, and more during the college's Fall Open House on Friday, October 25. The open house will take place from noon to 2 p.m. in the college's Student Union, at Health Professions and Career and Technical Education facilities on the main campus, and at the Health Professions labs at the Parkland College on Mattis building.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation Division of Banking and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul issued a warning for a new scam that seeks to take advantage of student loan uncertainty. Scammers contact student loan borrowers and make false promises that they can guarantee lower monthly payments or loan forgiveness, often demanding upfront fees to do so and promising immediate results. Borrowers typically can request these services for free from the U.S. Department of Education or their student loan servicer. Scammers utilizing this scheme are known to have contacted targets by phone, text, email, and regular mail, and may falsely claim to have ties to government agencies including the Department of Education. While a few companies may offer legitimate student debt relief services, many make false promises to student loan borrowers and fail to deliver on the services they're paid for.

(Springfield-jm) – The state is looking for teacher nominees for a couple of awards. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City talks about the awards...

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Washington-jm) – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin, both of Illinois announced over $36 million in federal funding for the Illinois Department of Human Services to help support treatment and prevention services for substance and opioid use disorders and overdoses. This funding comes through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services'  Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration as a part of their State Opioid Response grants program.

(Washington-jm) – The Global Agricultural Productivity Initiative Thursday released its annual edition of its report, reflecting total factor production and world sustainability efforts over the period of a decade. Rod Bain reports...

(Rantoul-jm) – 33 acres of land on the former Chanute Air Force Base could be going up for auction in Rantoul, if voters approve a referendum on the ballot in November. The park district is looking to voters to decide the fate of land that once held the football fields of Camp Rantoul. The park district says the land gets little use and costs about $50,000 to maintain.

(Buckley–dm)-If you would like to donate clothing or non-perishable items for people affected by the hurricane in North Carolina, you can take your donations to Buckley. North Carolina Volunteer Spokesperson Ardell Goat Goetting has more information.

Volunteer Goat Goetting.  Your Donations need to be in Buckley by 12 noon today. If you have any questions you can call Goat at 217-394-2242.

(Urbana-jm) – A new three-year contract has been set for UIUC Food Service and Building Service Workers. SEIU Local 73 confirmed the members of the union voted to approve the new three-year contract. Among the items in the contract are a $500 signing bonus and pay raises of $1.00 for the first year, $0.90 for the second and $0.85 for the third. Another provision included is some Food Service workers may not be laid off over the summer, with any worker not laid off guaranteed to be offered a 40-hour work week. The laid off workers will continue to be offered other work opportunities. The union went on strike for eight days with the University. The strike ended Monday.

(Rantoul–dm)--The Rantoul Fire Department will be celebrating their 125th anniversary on Saturday.  Rantoul Fire Chief Chad Smith has more information.

Rantoul Fire Chief Chad Smith 

(Paxton-jm) – The Paxton Park District and now officials with the Paxton Carnegie Library say they have been dealing with minor  property damage and some theft.

Earlier this week park district officials posted their 'stay spooky' flag had been stolen along with a corner flag from the soccer field. Another new soccer corner flag was damaged. Paxton police are investigating.

(Cissna Park–jc) One local volunteer fire department is set to host their annual Chicken Fry on Sunday. The Cissna Park Fire Department  has the chicken fry from 11am until 5pm at the fire house in the village. Dine in and carry outs are available. Along with the dinner, they are holding a fundraiser raffle for a Pedal Fire Truck, a 200 Gift certificate at DuChick Ranch and a quarter-beef from Hasselbring Farms. Tickets for those items are available from firemen and Cissna Park businesses. 

(Gilman–jc)  The Gathering in Gilman is the WPXN Business of the Day, today. Co owner Kathy Perzee says they are opening a new area in the store and fall items are going fast...

Kathy Perzee says to shop the store during the cool days of autumn and then come back for lunch or dessert...

The Gathering of Gilman's Kathy Perzee. They are also getting ready for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays at the Gathering in Gilman. Check out the fall fudge too. The Gathering in Gilman is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

(Springfield-jm) – At the start of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health are reminding Illinoisans that early detection is the most effective way to prevent the deadly disease which is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women. The Governor has issued a proclamation declaring October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and October 18 as Mammography Day in Illinois.

(Springfield-jm) – State Senators are looking into concerns about the safety of staff and inmates in state prisons. 53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City is one of the concerned Senators...

53rd District State Senator Tom Bennett of Gibson City.

(Chicago-jm) – Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan has defended himself for the past four years, saying that he was only doing his job and that part of that job was making job recommendations. Madigan, who held sway over the Illinois statehouse as leader of the Democratic Party and speaker of the House for decades, argued in motions that the judge should toss the racketeering and bribery charges against him because he was performing his job. Judge John Robert Blakey said that wasn't a reason to cut counts from the 23-count indictment days before Madigan's corruption trial gets underway. Co-defendant Michael McClain, a former state lawmaker, lobbyist and close associate of Madigan, also sought to have some charges dismissed ahead of trial.

(Washington-jm) – The first U.S. Drought Monitor for October indicates varying Impacts to crops and commodities within growing drought coverage areas. Rod Bain reports...

(Champaign County-jm) – The renovation of the Satellite Jail in Urbana is almost finished, after about two years of construction. The downtown jail was shut down in 2022, leaving the satellite space as the only one in the county.

(Paxton–dm)-There will be a fundraiser at tonight's football game for a Paxton Buckley Loda Junior high student going through some health concerns.

Jaxon Peacock recently had a double lung transplant.  Paxton Buckley Loda Junior  High Guidance Counselor Stacy Johnson has the details...

Paxton Buckley Loda Junior High Guidance Counselor Stacy Johnson.  You can also make a donation at the school, or at the Frederick Bank in Paxton.

(Urbana-jm) – Concerned spouses and family members of METCAD Dispatchers addressed officials about their concerns with staffing during the agency's board meeting Thursday morning. Community members, feeling their requests have been overlooked, are taking a proactive stance. They are proposing solutions, including a complete overhaul of training programs, the implementation of a staffing contingency plan, and the creation of a long-term staff retention strategy. The agency has 17 full-time dispatchers on staff and another 10 in training.

(Buckley–dm)-The annual Buckley Lakeside Fall Festival is taking place on Saturday, October 19th/ Committee member Sarah Dean has more information.

Buckley Fall Fest Committee Member Sarah Dean

(Gibson City-jm) – New equipment, training and classes are now possible for Gibson Area Hospital thanks to $550,000 in grant funding.  The Supporting and Improving Rural EMS Needs or SIREN Act is meant to help rural EMS and fire agencies provide timely care to their communities. Senator Dick Durbin introduced the bill back in 2018.

WPXN Weekend News Notes...

The Loda American Legion will hold their fish and chicken fry tonight from 4-7 pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their family night dinner tonight from 5-7 pm. Dinner includes your choice of chicken, fish or shrimp and your choice of 2 sides for $15.

The Vermilion County Health Department will hold an electronics recycling event on Saturday from 8:30-11 am at the north lot of Danville Area Community College.

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

The 6th annual Wine and Chocolate Walk will take place on Saturday from 11-4:30 in Paxton.

Logan Kirby will perform at the Melvin Community Hall on Saturday at 7pm. Cost is $10 for those 13 and older. Food will be available starting at 5:30.

(The Center Square) – Some Illinois state senators are expressing concerns about the speedy removal of inmates from Stateville Correctional Center. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker said he was proud of the Department of Corrections for the speed with which they were able to make the transfers  of inmates to Crest Hill.

Democratic State Senator Rachel Ventura, of-Joliet, said the Illinois Department of Corrections did not have a solid plan.  Ventura said the Department of Corrections missed the mark on improving life quality for people currently incarcerated.

(Gilman–jc)  Harvest 20-24 continues in East Central Illinois. Ford Iroquois Farm Bureau Manager Kacie Claire says predictions on the crops are positive, but maybe not a bumper crop...

Ford Iroquois Farm Bureau Manager Kacie Claire

(Chicago–jc)  –A judge has declined an effort to dismiss bribery charges against disgraced former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.Attorneys for the longtime Democratic power broker had tried to get the charges thrown out  based on the  U.S. Supreme Court's June ruling in the bribery case of the former mayor of Portage, Indiana, James Snyder. That decision narrowed the definition of bribery. Jury selection for Madigan's trial is set to start next Tuesday, Oct. 8.

(Paxton–jc)  A new scoreboard for Nelson Field in Paxton is expected next week. Paxton Park District Director Jordan Chapman says the site is the same at Nelson Field and preparation work has been completed as they await arrival of the unit...

Paxton Park District Director Jordan Chapman

(Springfield–jc0  –The state of Illinois is cracking down on auto theft.The Illinois Secretary of State's Officer reports in fiscal year 2024, the Illinois Statewide Auto Theft Task Force conducted over 1,800 investigations and recovered over 1,300 vehicles worth approximately $30 million.The agency also conducted 240 audits of businesses in the auto industry, including scrap processors and body shops. 

(Springfield–jc)  –The Illinois Department of Labor is reminding employers and those looking for a job that, starting Jan. 1, 2025, employers with 15 or more employees must include pay scale and benefit information in job postings.

Any person may file a complaint with the agency, when they become aware of a job posting that lacks the required salary and benefit information. Complaints must be filed within one year of the relevant violation and complainants are encouraged to submit a link, picture or screenshot of the posting in question.

(Springfield–jc) In an update from Wednesday morning, Some Illinois Lawmakers in Springfield are calling on the federal government concerning illegal migrants, crimes, and safety of Illinois citizens.  51st District State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet says numbers provided are larger because local police are not allowed to work with ICE officials...

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet

(The Center Square) – Electric vehicle battery maker Gotion announced a year ago that it would transform a vacant Manteno, Illinois, Kmart distribution center into a $2 billion factory. Some Manteno residents sued the village and Gotion, arguing the plant will use toxic chemicals that are not allowed under local zoning provisions. Representing the citizens is Robby Dube, who said that Kankakee Circuit Court Judge Lindsay Parkhurst denied the motion from the village and Gotion for judgments on the merits based only on the pleadings. Dube pointed out that the judge, when talking about the nuisance claim, said, "what you have pleaded entitles you to relief." "Dube said the plaintiffs won on the merits, but ultimately the judge dismissed the complaint without prejudice.

(Paxton–jc)  – The Paxton Chamber of Commerce continues to take the lead in promoting businesses in the city. The annual Wine and Chocolate walk is set for Saturday, and plans continue for the upcoming holiday shopping season Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce President Dawn Stack talks about their "group" effort...

Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce President Dawn Stack

(The Center Square) – Governor J.B. Pritzker has announced the launch of a taxpayer-funded marketing campaign for Illinois manufacturing. The "Make It In Illinois" campaign is funded by $5 million of taxpayer funds. The Governor made  the announcement while visiting the Manufacturing and Technology and Engineering Center  in Chicago on Tuesday.  The Governor announced that October is National Manufacturing Month, which has special meaning for the leading manufacturing state in the industrial Midwest. Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Director Kristin Richards said the "Make It In Illinois" campaign includes advertisements in neighboring states.

(Washington-jm) – The costs of eating out are rising rapidly. Gary Crawford reports...

(Champaign-jm) – Two groups in Champaign County are partnering together to help low-income families. The Housing Authority of Champaign County and VOLO are eliminating the cost of Wi-Fi. They're starting a new project called VCHAP it'll provide free wi-fi for 355 homes in six Housing Authority of Champaign County properties.

(Cissna Park–jc)  –  The Cissna Park F FA Pumpkins in the Park event is set for Saturday. Pumpkins in the park Car and Motorcycle Show Spokesperson Floyd Schumacher says the day starts with the annual F F A breakfast...

Cissna Park Pumpkins in the Park Car and Motorcycle Show Spokesperson Floyd Schumacher

Kids activities, lots of business vendors, live music, to a petting zoo, and a car and motorcycle show, all hilite the day.  

(Chicago–jc)  A federal judge has denied the state's motion to hold his ruling against the prohibition of concealed carry firearms on mass transit. During a hearing Wednesday, Judge Iain Johnston chastised state and Cook County attorneys for providing no evidence that his order granting an injunction against the law that only impacts plaintiffs would cause irreparable harm or endanger public safety. An appeal is pending.

(Springfield–jc)  The 2024 Illinois fall trout season will open Saturday, Oct. 19, at 60 ponds, lakes and streams throughout the state.The early catch-and-release season is scheduled to open Oct. 5. No trout may be taken from any of the stocked sites until the regular fall season opens. The daily catch limit is five trout.

All anglers must have an Illinois fishing license and inland trout stamp 

(Chicago–jc)  Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued a proclamation declaring October as Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology is reminding residents of available resources to stay safe online.

State officials said they are committed to providing the necessary tools and information to help residents protect themselves.

(Chicago-jc) – Teachers at schools across Illinois and the country took part in the national walk-in with COVID relief funding expiring Monday. Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates joined teachers outside of Mollison Elementary in Bronzeville to participate in a walk-in, demanding more funding for public education. The South Side school has the highest vacancy rate in the city. The district is facing a $500 million shortfall, with the fall veto session starting in November for state legislators.

(Springfield-jc) – The Illinois Department of Insurance announces that its Life Policy Locator helped return to consumers more than $8.5 million in lost or unclaimed life insurance policies and annuities this year.The agency encourages anyone who believes they are a beneficiary of a deceased relative's unclaimed policy to use the free locator tool on its website.

(Pesotum-jm) – After being closed almost 12 hours, I-57 near Pesotum is back open. The northbound lanes were closed after a semi carrying a bridge beam got stuck after colliding with a guardrail early yesterday morning. Around 6pm last night, state police said the road was reopened.

(Rantoul-jm) – Rural King may be expanding its footprint, but Central Illinois is losing one location in a planned merger. The company said it is embarking on a "significant growth phase" that will add five stores this year and another 10 in 2025. Rural King is also expanding to a 14th state. However, the company is making changes to three of the stores that are already open. Rural King representatives said the two stores in Champaign and Rantoul will be consolidating in the Champaign location. Meanwhile, in Kentucky, the company will be relocating one of its stores.

(Champaign-jm) – White Construction will close Anthony Drive between Dobbins Drive and Campbell Drive. Both eastbound and westbound Anthony Drive traffic will be detoured in the area.  The closure will occur between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., starting on Monday, October 7, and ending on Friday, October 11, 2024, weather permitting. Access will be maintained to all local properties. In order to complete pavement repairs, Stark Excavating will close one eastbound lane of Kirby Avenue between Waverly Drive and Mayfair Road.  The closure will begin on Thursday, October 3, and the lane will reopen by Friday, October 11, 2024. During the closure, eastbound traffic will be reduced to one lane.

(Urbana-jm) – Carle Health will host Camp Healing Heart, a unique, day-long event to help children and teens experiencing the death of a loved one, on Saturday, Oct. 5. Camp Healing Heart began in 2005 by the Carle Health Hospice team, with the goal of supporting children and teens ages 5 through 17. Healing Heart is free to campers, thanks to generous support of Carle Health Center for Philanthropy, and is staffed by 100 volunteers from Carle Health and the community. The camp is designed to provide tools to children and teens to help them process grief while connecting with other kids who have gone through similar experiences.

(Paxton–jc)  Today's WPXN Business of the Day is Paxton IGA. Paxton IGA Customer Service Supervisor April Ransom talks about her job of service to customers at the local I G A Store...

Ransom says the service area provides stamps, bill pay options and lottery too. Ransom did have a big winner several years ago...

Paxton IGA Customer Service Supervisor April Ransom

The local store is open 24 hours daily. Paxton IGA is the WPXN Business of the Day, today. 

(Danville-jc)  Danville Schools are on E-Learning today after an apparent threat. School officials released the statement earlier this morning. Danville police were called in to investigate. WPXN news will update this story as it warrants. 

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity released information about this year's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program to support income eligible households with utility costs. LIHEAP began accepting applications yesterday, and will continue through August 15, 2025, or until funds are exhausted.The energy bill assistance program offered through Help Illinois Families will provide $226 million to eligible families to assist with natural gas, propane, electricity bills and furnace assistance.

(Springfield–jc) Some Illinois Lawmakers in Springfield are calling on the federal government concerning illegal migrants, crimes, and safety of Illinois citizens. 

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet provides some numbers...

51st District State Senator Chapin Rose of Mahomet

(Springfield-jc) – State aging officials are holding a series of roundtable discussions, which are open to service providers, older adults, family caregivers, and the public, to help shape the future of policymaking, service delivery, and investment priorities to meet the needs of a growing older adult population. Leaders from the state Department on Aging and regional Area Agencies on Aging will convene a dozen roundtable discussions statewide to inform the development of Illinois' 2026-2028 State Plan on Aging, a framework aimed at improving and promoting quality of life for older adults, their families, and caregivers. The first meeting will be held Wednesday in Dixon, with other roundtables scheduled for Chicago, Maywood and Aurora in the coming days. 

(Champaign-jm) – Halloween trick-or-treating hours in the City of Champaign, City of Urbana, and Champaign County will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, October 31, 2024.

(Danville-jm) – Brandun Schweizer, candidate for State Representative in the 104th district, is proud to announce the endorsement of the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police. The FOP is the world's largest organization of sworn law enforcement officers. The IL FOP is the second largest State Lodge, proudly representing over 33,000 active duty and retired police officers – more than 10 percent of all FOP members nationwide.

(Urbana–jc)  –Illinois has the second highest gas taxes in the country, and now a central Illinois community will be adding to the total. The Urbana City Council has passed a fuel tax increase that will begin in January 2025. In the first year, residents will see an increase of 7.5 cents per gallon, and by the third year, the tax per gallon will increase to 12.5 cents. City officials said the increase will go toward road maintenance.

(Urbana-jm) – Food and building service workers at the University of Illinois have reached a tentative deal with the university on a new contract. If the contract is ratified, a week-long strike would end. Robin Kaler, Associate Chancellor for Strategic Communications and Marketing, said the university and SEIU Local 73 reached the deal on Monday. Union negotiators are recommending it for ratification, Kaler said, and if union members agree to the contract, they would return to work today.

(Washington-jm) – Agriculture Secretary Vilsack urges dock workers and port officials to avoid a strike. Gary Crawford reports...

(Springfield-jm) – A controversial Illinois law affecting credit cards has prompted opinion polls, lawsuits and an array of opinions. The Interchange Fee Prohibition Act was signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker is set to take effect in July 2025, making Illinois the first state to exempt taxes and tips from interchange fees. Rob Karr, the president of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, said their poll shows 68 percent of Illinoisans are in favor of the law. Karr said 82% of those polled said that it is unfair to workers and businesses to charge swipe fees on tips, and the notion that a card would have to be swiped twice is not true. Banking and credit union groups have filed a lawsuit against the state of Illinois, seeking to block the ban on applying interchange fees to sales taxes and tips. The lawsuit  alleges Illinois is interfering with the federal government's exclusive regulatory authority over various federally-chartered financial institutions.

(Springfield–dm)-The Bureau of Labor Statistics data is showing that Illinois' unemployment rate is going up.  WPXN's Dan Mushrush has more information.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign Police responded to Centennial High School Homecoming after a School Resource Officer requested assistance from additional officers due to a physical altercation between two juvenile subjects. Police say during the altercation, officers observed the two juveniles yelling and shoving and worked quickly to separate them. Once separated, both involved parties were interviewed along with their parents and neither group wished to pursue charges.

(Rantoul–jc) With the Minuteman Missile project completed for the village of Rantoul, village leaders are making a plaque to place at the missile to honor those in the military. Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith says the missile is a reminder of honoring those who have or are serving our nation...

Rantoul Mayor Chuck Smith

(Douglas County–jc)  It has been more than a month since cows were killed in a crash on Interstate 57 in Douglas County, and now a billboard is paying homage. In August, a semi-truck carrying cows crashed, killing 20 cows with another 16 getting loose. The group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals purchased a billboard to remember the cows that died. The billboard reads, "I'm me. Not meat." Officials said two cows remain on the loose in the corn.

(Paxton–jc)  – Today's WPXN Business of the Day is the Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce. The local business group is sponsoring the annual Wine and Chocolate Walk on Saturday in the city. Spokesperson Donna Pepper says it's a way to showcase the wide variety of businesses in Paxton...

Spokesperson Donna Pepper. 

A few of the 250 tickets for the walk are available at Hudson Drug and Hallmark Shop in Paxton.

 Chamber business member Andy Hudson, Owner of Hudson Drug and Hallmark talks about in store specials for those participating in the event as well as an invite to others to shop Paxton on Saturday...

Paxton Chamber-Paxton Business Owner Andy Hudson. 

(Chatsworth-jm) – Multiple fire departments battled a fire in Chatsworth Monday evening. Piper City and Forest were among the departments called to battle the blaze. There's no word on the cause of the fire or how much damage was done.

(Washington-jm) – There were no major surprises in Monday's report on grain stocks. Gary Crawford reports...

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois voters have a non-binding question on the November ballot about taxing millionaires more to fund a property tax relief fund. Behind only New Jersey, Illinois has the second-highest property taxes in the nation, according to the Tax Foundation, WalletHub and ATTOM Data Solutions. Some advocate for a surcharge on millionaires to raise revenue for property tax relief. Such an advisory question is on the Nov. 5 ballot. Asked about the advisory question for the millionaire surcharge, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said "it might be one that's popular among people." "But the graduated income tax is the way to go," Pritzker said at an unrelated news conference.

(Undated–jc)  State of Illinois officials are making sure that haunted houses for halloween are safe. WPXN's Joel Cluver has the story...

(Champaign-jm) – Average gasoline prices in Illinois have risen 5.1 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.48/g, according to GasBuddy. Prices in Illinois are 18.6 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 30.5 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.

(Urbana-jm) – A University of Illinois student filed a sexual assault report that they say occurred on campus over the weekend. According to U of I Police, they received a report that the student was sexually assaulted at 1:30 a.m. on Sunday in a residence hall. University Police also say the student and the offender met at a party before the assault.

(Paxton–dm)-Did you know PBL Junior High has a Lego League Team?  They are currently practicing to get ready for their December competition.  Lego League Coach Liz Pippen tells us more about the Lego League.

Lego League coach Liz Pippen.  The Lego League team will have an open house on November 21st. From 5:30-6:30

(Champaign-jm) – In order to replace the concrete curb along Neil Street, A&R Services will close one southbound lane of Neil Street between Hill Street and Main Street.  The closure will begin on Tuesday, October 1, and will be reopened by the end of the day on Thursday, October 3, 2024. In order to complete a pole installation near 301 E. University Avenue, AT&T will close one eastbound lane of University Avenue between Third Street and Fourth Street.  The closure will occur on Thursday, October 3, 2024, between the hours of 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. During the closure, eastbound traffic will be reduced to one lane.

The Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce is the WPXN Business of the Day, today.

WPXN News Note

Hudson Drug & Hallmark will have a Flu and covid clinic tonight from 4-7 at the Paxton Fire station.