(Undated-jm) – Officials are reminding residents to take precautions against carbon monoxide, as the Fall and Winter seasons approach.  Carbon Monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can be deadly. Generators, grills, camp stoves, and other fuel-burning devices should never be used inside homes, garages, basements or other enclosed spaces. These units should be placed outdoors and away from doors, windows and vents to prevent gas from entering living areas. The main risks when using alternate power or heating sources include carbon monoxide poisoning, fire and electric shock. Authorities urge residents to install carbon monoxide alarms on every level of the home and near sleeping areas. If an alarm sounds, move immediately to fresh air outdoors or near an open window or door, and call for help. Remain in the fresh air until emergency responders arrive.

(Paxton–jc)  There’s something new coming to downtown Paxton on Friday night. It’s the first annual Hometown Huddle. The event will bring alumni from the Paxton Buckley Loda School along with former area schools to the Market Street Grill. It’s Friday night starting at 9pm following the PBL Football Homecoming game. Paxton Main Street Executive Director Donna Pepper says they wanted a fun event to bring more people to the downtown area of the city…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is asking for public assistance in a homicide investigation following the death of Michael Huffman. On August 27, officers responded to a report of a man down. Upon arrival, they found Huffman, 45, unresponsive with gunshot wounds next to the railroad tracks west of State Street near North Prairie Street. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The initial investigation suggests Huffman had been deceased for several hours.

(Champaign–jm) – Illinois State Police Troop 7 and the ISP Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 5 are investigating a road rage incident that resulted in a stabbing on I-72 eastbound at milepost 181 in Champaign County. The incident occurred on Sunday at approximately 6:56 p.m.  One person was transported to a local hospital with injuries. The investigation is ongoing, and no further information is available at this time.

(Champaign–dm)-Our hearing can get worse with age...and some people will just accept that. But hearing loss can lead to depression, isolation, and risk of falling. So you should know how to keep your ears healthy. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare has more.

Everyday, you can protect your hearing by wearing earplugs in loud environments...like a concert, fireworks show, the shooting range, or just mowing the lawn. And when you pop in the headphones...don’t turn the music up to the max volume.

(Watseka–dm)- A county-wide burn ban is back in place for Iroquois County           starting yesterday as dry weather and lack of rainfall continue to elevate fire risks. According to the Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency, working with the Eastern Illinois Mutual Aid Fire Association and County Board, the ban prohibits all open burning. That includes landscape waste, agricultural debris, household trash, and garbage. Consumer fireworks are also included in the restrictions.

(The Center Square) – A state lawmaker who also serves as a police officer says the recent stabbing of non-police first responders in Champaign underscores his criticism of a new state law. The Illinois Community Emergency Services and Support Act, signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker in 2021, limits police presence unless violence or criminal activity is anticipated. The law’s full implementation has faced repeated delays, with the deadline now pushed back to June 30, 2027, as the state conducts pilot tests in select 911 centers. State Rep. Dennis Tipsword, R-Metamore, voiced skepticism about the law’s safety implications for first responders. According to a City of Champaign news release, 23-year old suspect Trevor Lewis was arrested on multiple charges, including attempted murder, after stabbing emergency personnel before police arrived, an incident Tipsword says highlights the dangers of sending non-law enforcement responders into volatile situations.

(Paxton–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Monicals Pizza in Paxton. They are the home of the family pleaser. Paxton Monicals Restaurant Manager Jason Mills says one local favorite pizza is the “Panther Special”...

Jason Mills says now is the time to reserve their “party room” for your holiday get together….

Paxton Monicals Restaurant Manager Jason Mills

Monicals in Paxton offers daily lunch specials with an individual pizza, or your favorite Monicals sub. Order on line or call 217-379-4835.

Monicals Pizza, route 9 west, Paxton, the WPXN Business of the Day, today. 

(Undated–jm) – Average gasoline prices in Illinois have increased by 1.8 cents per gallon over the past week, reaching an average of $3.36 per gallon, according to GasBuddy's survey of 4,378 stations across the state. Despite this recent uptick, prices are still 16.9 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and 11.2 cents per gallon lower than the same time last year. Meanwhile, the national average price of diesel has decreased by 1.3 cents, now standing at $3.652 per gallon.

(USDA–dm)-Autumn may signal gardening season coming to an end for the year, but gardeners should also consider it prep time for next Spring. Rod Bain has the story

(Urbana–jm) – The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign generated more than $12 billion for the state’s economy in 2023, according to a new study. The study, which was released on Monday, showed that the U of I System as a whole generated $24.9 billion in fiscal year 2023 and supported more than 225,000 jobs across the state. This means that about one out of every 37 jobs in the state is supported by the U of I System. On Champaign-Urbana’s campus, the impact of $12.2 billion is equivalent to supporting 109,212 jobs. That translates to about one out of every 76 jobs in the state being supported by the activities of Urbana and its students. And, the money generated by the U of I’s campus is about 1.3% of the gross state product of Illinois.

(Gilman–dm)-Burn bans are still in effect in our area, and drought conditions are still creating the possibility of field fires.  Ford/Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Casey Claire has some ideas to help prevent field fires.

Ford/Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Casey Claire

(Illinois-bp) -  Do you need help with your winter bills? The East Central Illinois Community Action Agency serves Vermilion Ford and Iroquois Counties. The assistance application is open now. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program  or Li-Heap, will open for priority households on October 1st, including seniors, families with young children, and those with a disconnect notice. All other income eligible households can start applying November 3rd. Don't wait to call the Paxton office at 217-579-1054 to make sure your family stays warm - this winter.

(Springfield–dm)-The Illinois Department of Insurance has announced that $19.6 million was returned to consumers this year from lost or unclaimed life insurance policies and annuities, thanks to the Life Policy Locator service available to consumers at no charge. IDOI Director Ann Gillespie said Illinois requires insurance companies to attempt to find the beneficiaries of deceased policyholders when life insurance or annuity proceeds remain unpaid. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners reports that millions of dollars in life insurance benefits remain unclaimed each year.

WPXN News notes…

The Ford County Public Health Department will host a flu clinic today from 10-2 at the Gibson City Bible Church.

Hudson Drug and Hallmark will host a COVID booster, RSV, shingles, pneumonia and flu vaccine drive for seniors today, from 4-7 pm at the Paxton Fire House.

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their First Friday Dinner on Friday, October 3rd from 4:30-7:30 pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their family dinner on Friday, October 3rd from 5-7 pm. Dinner includes chicken, fish or shrimp and 2 sides for $15.

Thomasboro Fall Townwide Garage sales will take place Friday, October 3rd and Saturday, October 4th.

(Springfield-jm) – A suburban Senate Democrat has filed four bills to help address auto and homeowner insurance ratemaking. Senator Michael Hastings of Frankfort wants Illinois to examine whether families are paying higher auto insurance premiums due to nondriving factors that have little to do with actual risk on the road. His plan calls on the Illinois Department of Insurance to conduct thorough reviews of how insurers use credit scores, jobs, education level and other socioeconomic factors to set auto and homeowner insurance rates. Yet, the Illinois Insurance Association says that credit, zip code and age are essential to accurately assessing risk for drivers. The group said these tools help keep insurance premiums lower for the majority of Illinois consumers. A separate plan would ban insurance companies from cost shifting, or passing the cost of out-of-state emergencies like hurricanes, wildfires, or floods onto Illinois customers. Hastings also hopes to gain support for a bill to require insurers to provide advance written notice to customers before imposing significant rate increases on home or auto policies. Companies raising premiums by more than 10% would need to give auto policyholders 30 days' notice, and homeowners would receive 60 days' notice. 

(The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker  announced last week, the creation of a new group of governors impacted by the PJM energy grid operator, but Republicans say it’s state policies that are driving costs up. Pritzker’s office announced PJM Governor’s Collaborative, saying its aim is to strengthen state representation in the decision-making process of PJM Interconnection. His office said there are concerns over PJM’s role in driving up electricity costs. Before Thursday’s announcement at an unrelated event, Pritzker criticized the operator.    During a House Executive Committee hearing Thursday about proposed changes to the state’s energy policy, including tacking on another surcharge to ratepayer bills, driving costs up more, state Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer, R-Murrayville, said it’s not PJM that’s inflating rates, it’s state policies.

Rep CD Davidsmeyer, R -Murrayville

(Fisher-jm) – Two people were hospitalized Friday night following a crash involving an SUV and car in Champaign County. At approximately 7:22 p.m. Illinois State Police Troop 7 responded to Illinois 47 at 3100 North in Fisher for the report of a two-unit personal injury traffic crash. The accident involved a Toyota SUV and a Chevrolet passenger car.  As a result of the crash, two individuals were transported to a local area hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries. The scene was then cleared at approximately 10:20 p.m.

(USDA–dm)- You might wonder what are some of the ways the farm sector is expected to benefit from trade deals made by our country over the past few months? Rod Bain has the story

(Hoopeston-jm) – A 31-year-old Hoopeston man was cited on Friday after allegedly stealing a city water meter. Hoopeston Police responded to the 800 block of E McCracken Avenue after receiving information regarding a person violating a city ordinance. Hoopeston Police officers then cited 31-year-old Colin Carswell of Hoopeston with theft of state supported property for stealing a water meter, and theft of services for the theft of water. Officers gave Carswell a notice to appear for Hoopeston City Court due to the city ordinance violation.

(Paxton–dm)-Although we are just a week into Fall, you probably need to think about what you need to do to get your pool ready for winter.  Paxton Hardware  and Rental owner Scott Allen gives us some tips.

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

(Champaign–dm)-A Guatemalan national has pleaded guilty to being illegally present in the United States after a prior removal and failing to update his registration as a convicted sex offender.Prosecutors say Roberto Nicolas-Simon, 24, had been removed from the country following his 2020 conviction for aggravated criminal sexual abuse of a minor in Champaign County. Sentencing is scheduled Feb. 2, 2026 at the U.S. Courthouse in Urbana, Illinois.

(Paxton–jc)  It was a sunny and successful day for the Paxton Area Down Syndrome Walk event in Paxton on Sunday. Those attending were treated to a free lunch, a walk around the Paxton Buckley Loda track and some fundraising. The group raised money for new books  and other resources for the local schools

(Buckley–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Abbe Insurance in Buckley. Larry Abbe has been in the insurance business for over 40 years. Abbe says today he specializes in medicare supplements and annuities..

Larry is hosting a meeting on medicare coverage on Wednesday morning at 10 at the Buckley American Legion.  Those interested can show up at the free meeting and learn more about coverages, options and more. 

Abbe Insurance of Buckley is the WPXN Business of the Day, today

(Springfield-jm) – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Housing Development Authority announced the success of the most recent round of SmartBuy, a first-of-its-kind initiative that helped 533 Illinoisans eliminate $16 million in student loan debt while achieving the dream of homeownership in only 12 weeks. Through SmartBuy, homeowners were able to purchase a home eight years earlier than traditional Illinois Housing Development Authority borrowers. Relaunched in December 2024, SmartBuy offered an affordable 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage with $5,000 in deferred down payment or closing cost assistance, alongside up to $40,000 in direct student loan relief for borrowers purchasing a home in Illinois.

(Springfield-jm) – Rail Safety Week is past but officials around the state are encouraging safety. Illinois Commerce Commission Chairman Doug Scott talks about the importance of rail safety…

Illinois Commerce Commission Chairman Doug Scott.

(Undated-jm) — Multiple fire departments were called to battle a field fire Saturday afternoon near Sibley. Firefighters from Sibley, Gibson City, Forest and Cropsey battled the blaze in a corn field. A combine fire was also reported near Fisher over the weekend.

(The Center Square) – Former state Sen. Darren Bailey, R-Xenia, is making a second run for Illinois governor. Bailey launched his campaign for the 2026 Republican nomination Thursday morning in Carterville and then spoke in Bloomington. At an event Thursday evening in Oak Brook, Bailey said his campaign is about taxes, opportunity and affordability.

Republican Candidate for Governor Darren Bailey

(Gilman–dm)-Harvest is under way and Ford-Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Casey Claire tells us about the progress being made.

Ford-Iroquois County Farm Bureau Manager Casey Claire

(Vermilion County-jm) – Jason Whaling has thrown his name in for Vermilion County Treasurer in the November 2026  election. As treasurer, Whaling says he plans to modernize how Vermilion County manages its finances, diversify county investments, safeguard public funds and bring greater transparency to financial reporting.

WPXN News notes…

Hudson Drug and Hallmark will host a COVID booster, RSV, shingles, pneumonia and flu vaccine drive for seniors on Tuesday, September 30th from 4-7 pm at the Paxton Fire House.

The Ford County Public Health Department will host a flu clinic on Tuesday, September 30th from 10-2 at the Gibson City Bible Church.

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their First Friday Dinner on Friday, October 3rd from 4:30-7:30 pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their family dinner on Friday, October 3rd from 5-7 pm. Dinner includes chicken, fish or shrimp and 2 sides for $15.

Thomasboro Fall Townwide Garage sales will take place Friday, October 3rd and Saturday, October 4th.

(Springfield-jm) – Over-the-year, the unemployment rate decreased in 6 metro areas, increased in 4, and remained unchanged in 2 for the year ending August 2025, according to data released Thursday by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Illinois Department of Employment Security. Locally in Champaign County the unemployment rate fell from 4.9 percent to 4.8 percent. In Ford County it rose from 4.5 percent to 4.7 percent. In Vermilion County it fell from 6.5 percent to 6.2 percent. In Iroquois County it rose from 4.6 percent to 4.8 percent.

(Springfield-jm) – Former Republican state senator Darren Bailey officially kicked off his second campaign for Illinois governor Thursday. Capitol News Illinois reports Bailey picked Cook County Republican Chairman Aaron Del Mar as his running mate. They think bringing two Republicans from opposite sides of the state gives them the best chance to win. Bailey lost the general election in 2023 to Governor J-B Pritzker. But Bailey says bringing on Del Mar will make things different this time…

Republican governor candidate Darren Bailey. Bailey joins DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick, businessman Joe Severino and conservative researcher Ted Dabrowski in the Republican primary. Pritzker announced he is running for a third term in June.

(Urbana-jm) – The Illinois Health and Facilities Services Review Board has approved OSF’s permit application to discontinue certain services at the Urbana hospital. In July 2025, OSF HealthCare filed a formal application to discontinue major services at its Urbana hospital after reporting more than $600 million in combined losses at its Urbana and Danville locations. Some of OSF's executives summarized the project for the board, then there was a brief Q & A session. The vote was 9-0 to approve.

(Undated-jm) – The latest USDA drought monitor released yesterday shows conditions worsening. 96 percent of the state is now in drought conditions. Locally, northern two–thirds of Ford and Iroquois Counties are abnormally dry while the southern third of those counties plus most of Vermilion County are in moderate drought conditions. Most of Champaign County and all of Piatt County are in severe drought. The weather doesn’t look promising either with no rain in the forecast over the next 7 days with temps rising to the upper 80s/low 90s starting this weekend.

(Paxton–jc)  –  The process to pick the city of Paxton Christmas tree is underway by the local Paxton Service Club. They continue to look for that perfect tree to be donated to the city and Paxton Christmas Parade Committee Chairman Dawn Mertes says it takes a lot of groups to bring the annual holiday tree to the downtown area of Paxton…

Paxton Christmas Parade Committee Chairman Dawn Mertes

(Ludlow-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jayson Johns, a Ludlow resident, on child pornography charges. Johns was taken into custody following a search of his home in the 100 block of North Locust Street. According to authorities, Johns confessed after his arrest and is now facing multiple counts of possession of child pornography.

(Paxton–jc)  The track at Paxton Buckley Loda High school will be busy with walkers, and event goers on Sunday. It’s the annual Paxton Area Down Syndrome Walk.  Event Spokesperson Darla Schall says the games and a free meal begin the day at noon on Sunday at PBL High School and the walk is set for 1-15 that afternoon…

Paxton Area Down Syndrome Walk Event Spokesperson Darla Schall.The public is invited to join in on the walk, food and fundraising.

(Paxton–jc) the Ford County Insurance and Personnel committee is set to meet on Monday in Paxton and will look at the current county employment handbook. Possible updates will be discussed. The meeting is set for 4-30 Monday afternoon in the Sheriff’s Boardroom at the county courthouse in Paxton. 

(Rantoul–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Furniture World downtown Rantoul. The Van Blaricum family has been in the furniture business since 1959. Their motto has been consistent with the saying…Name Brand Furniture at everyday low prices. Furniture World will be hosting an anniversary sale in October. Furniture World is open 9 to 5 Monday through Fridays and 10 to 5 on Saturday. Furniture World offers a full line of items from sofas, couches, recliners, electric lift chairs, sectionals to a full line of  Nationals Brand, Bemco mattresses. 

(Springfield-jm) – Some Democratic lawmakers believe Illinois should be the first state to require voting for all eligible residents. A plan in Springfield would treat voting as a civic duty. State leaders estimate there are fewer than 10 million people eligible to vote in Illinois. Roughly 8.1 million Illinoisans are registered to vote, but only 5.7 million people cast ballots in the 2024 general election. However, Republicans said the state cannot force people to vote. The proposal states people would not face any fine, fee, or penalty if they choose not to vote.

(Springfield-jm) — The Illinois Department of Public Health has recommended all adults get a COVID-19 shot this fall despite federal guidelines that narrowed the group of people recommended for the shot. IDPH released a standing order that recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for all children between six and 23 months; children ages 2 through 17 that have an underlying risk or live in a home with another person who is at high risk for severe complications from COVID-19; any child whose parents want them to get a vaccine; people who are pregnant, planning to be pregnant or postpartum; and all adults. The recommendation bucks new and murky guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that recommend vaccines only for people ages 65 and older.

(Springfield-jm) – Rail safety week was last week in Illinois. State officials are trying to raise awareness around railroads and keep people safe. Illinois Deputy Governor Brea Scudder shares some stats on rail accidents in Illinois…

Illinois Deputy Governor Brea Scudder.

(Undated-jm) – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is reminding deer hunters about locations where deer can be tested for chronic wasting disease free of charge. Chronic wasting disease is a deadly disease of the central nervous system in deer and elk. Firearm deer hunters in CWD counties can get a voluntary sample taken by a biologist when they bring harvested deer to mandatory physical check stations during the 2025 regular firearm seasons Nov. 21-23 and Dec. 4–7. Go online for the locations of check stations. Between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, IDNR’s Wildlife Disease Program identified 539 CWD-positive deer in 25 Illinois counties, including Ford, Kankakee and Livingston.

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign County’s Emergency Management Agency is sharing tips for people who are deaf in honor of a worldwide holiday. This week is International Week of the Deaf, and the EMA says there are several ways to get life-saving messages in the case of an emergency. People can sign up for the FEMA disaster app or get specialized plug-ins to their weather radio. Some examples are an attachment that will make your pillow vibrate with warnings, or a bright light to wake you up.

(Springfield–jc)  Words matter, but both sides of the political debate are blaming and recusing. Dean Abbott reports…

(Buckley-jm) — Christ Lutheran High School in Buckley is warning area residents about a scam. According to the school, at least one person is going around selling candy bars claiming to raise money for the school. The school says they are not doing a candy bar fundraiser and advise people to not donate to the individual or individuals involved. They say to reach out to the police if they come to you.

(Champaign-jm) – Just nine months after a woman’s murder in Champaign, the man accused of that crime pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 25 years in prison. Carl Tribble Jr of Chicago, was in Champaign County court to plead guilty after reaching a deal with prosecutors. He pleaded guilty to one Class X felony count of aggravated battery of a firearm while the state dismissed two counts of murder and another of battery with a firearm. The charges stemmed from the murder of 21-year-old Heaven Hope the night of December 9, 2024. Hope was shot as she was entering a business at West Springfield Avenue near the intersection with Kenwood Road, and she was pronounced dead at the hospital. Champaign Police said the shooting may have been the result of an argument outside the business involving Hope, the man she was with and Tribble. While Hope was shot multiple times, the man she was with was not hit by gunfire.

(Champaign–jc)  Traffic along Route 150 in west Champaign was being re routed Thursday afternoon. The reason was a two vehicle crash. No word on any injuries and the road reopened to full traffic around 6 last night. 

(Paxton–jc)  The city of Paxton will be full of local citizens and welcome guests with the 7th annual Paxton Chamber Wine and Chocolate Walk. Paxton Chamber President Dawn Stack talks about wine, chocolate and business deals set for October 4th in the city…

Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce President Dawn Stack

(Gibson City–jc) The Gibson City Festival Committee has announced plans for their annual lighted Christmas Parade. The 31st annual Gibson City Lighted Christmas parade is set for Saturday November 22nd and steps off at 6-30 that evening. This year’s theme is a “comedic Christmas parade.” Organizers say to look for your favorite movie character in the parade this year.

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

Buckley townwide garage sales are today and Saturday

The Elliott Amvets will hold their pork chop sandwich dinner this evening from 5-7 pm. Cost is $8 and includes the sandwich and a side.

The Cadillac in Paxton will host Country Line Dancing with DJ Maggie B this evening from 8-11 pm.

Gifford Fall Townwide garage sales will take place Saturday.

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting the Loda Methodist Men on Saturday from 10-2.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their Mountain Oyster lunch on Saturday from noon to 2pm. Cost is $15 and includes oysters, chicken liver and onions and gizzards.

Rantoul/Paxton VFW will host the West End Boogie Project band playing your favorites from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s Saturday from 6-9. 

The annual Paxton Area Down Syndrome Awareness Walk is set for noon to 2 p.m. Sunday at Paxton-Buckley-Loda High School.

(Dupage County–jc)  Illinois Justice Mary K. O’Brien and the Illinois Supreme Court have announced the appointment of State Representative Terra Costa Howard, Democrat from Glen Ellyn, as a resident circuit judge in DuPage County.

Effective October 7th, Costa Howard is slated to replace retired Judge Paul Fullerton. Costa Howard gained notoriety during the General Assembly’s spring session when her bill to regulate schools and homeschool families drew record-breaking opposition across the state.

(Xenia–jc)  – Former State Senator Darren Bailey, Republican from -Xenia, is set to launch his second campaign for governor today. Bailey and his running mate, Cook County Republican Party chair Aaron Del Mar, have appearances scheduled in Carterville, Bloomington and Oak Brook. Bailey won the Republican primary in 2022 but lost to incumbent Gov. J.B. Pritzker in the general election.

(Paxton–jc)  –  City of Paxton leaders are working with another property owner in the downtown area of Paxton on a redevelopment agreement. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says the property is located at 234 North Market…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Rantoul–jc)  Rantoul Planning and Zoning Committee members are set to hear a request next week concerning a property on Keal Avenue. The Rantoul Park District is looking to rezone the property so it may be sold and re-developed. Another topic for the committee is to re-zone the ordinance that concerns mini-warehouses in Rantoul. The Rantoul Planning and Zoning Committee meeting is set for Thursday October 2nd at the village hall offices on Tanner Street. 

(Cissna Park–jc) – With another successful run for their “Shop the Park" series, the Cissna Park Development Board is now in the planning stages for the town’s old-fashioned Christmas event.. Cissna Park Economic Development Board Spokesperson Jessica Eisenmann says the summer events and those for the holidays are designed to bring a wide variety of people to Cissna Park…

Cissna Park Economic Development Board Spokesperson Jessica Eisenmann

CHAMPAIGN - Champaign Police were dispatched just after 11 Wednesday  morning to the 1000 block of South. Neil Street for a report of a Bank Robbery. Upon arrival, officers learned that a suspect had entered the bank and damaged security glass while demanding money and threatening staff. The suspect then fled the bank with an undisclosed amount of currency. No injuries have been reported to Champaign Police, and there is no evidence a gun was displayed or discharged during the commission of the robbery. No arrests have been made at this time, and the investigation is ongoing.  Champaign Police ask that anyone who has additional information please call 217-351-4545 or Champaign County Crimestoppers  at 217-373-8477.

(Springfield–jc)  The Illinois Department of Public Health has recommended all adults get a COVID-19 shot this fall despite federal guidelines that narrowed the group of people recommended for the shot.The states Health Department released a standing order this week that recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for all children between six and 23 months; children ages 2 through 17 that have an underlying risk or live in a home with another person who is at high risk for severe complications from COVID-19, The governor's office is advising the state to go against federal policies with the immunizations. 

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Church of Christ has a new pastor and he is a familiar face in the congregation. Former Fisher resident Pastor Kevin Heiser was approved by the church as its new pastor. Pastor Heiser gives a background on him and his family…

Paxton Church of Christ Pastor Kevin Heiser

(Normal–jc) Doctor. Andover Tarhule, the 21st president of Illinois State University, will deliver the annual State of the University Address later today. Tarhule’s comments will begin at 2 p.m. in the Brown Ballroom, Bone Student Center. He will highlight the University’s achievements and chart the course forward.

Springfield, IL – Governor J.B. Pritzker has announced this week as Infant-See-Week in Illinois. This proclamation underscores the state’s commitment to promoting early vision care for infants and strengthening public awareness of the InfantSEE® program across Illinois communities. The program is designed to ensure early detection of a wide variety of visual conditions

(Paxton–jc)   Today's WPXN Business of the Day is the Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce. Among the many events sponsored by the chamber is an annual Wine and Chocolate Walk. 23 businesses in the city are participating this year and Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce President Dawn Stack says the tickets are going fast…

Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce President Dawn Stack. The event is set for the city on Saturday October 4th. 

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

(The Center Square) – Illinois gubernatorial candidate Ted Dabrowski says repealing the TRUST Act to end the state’s sanctuary status is his top legislative priority. Dabrowski held a press conference outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Broadview Wednesday. He said Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson have fanned the flames of extremists .Dabrowski said Pritzker has characterized federal law enforcement officers as terrorists, while crime victims and their families have been largely forgotten.

(Springfield–jc)  –With the state of Illinois passing its highest budget of nearly 55 billion dollars, Illinois Governor J B Pritzker sent out an executive order to cut 4 percent from state agencies. Reaction coming from the Republican minority. Dean Abbott reports…

(Herrin–jc)  –The Herrin Police Department is being recognized for being the first recipient of the Military Police Reciprocity Program. The Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board announced the swearing in of officer Kevin Bailey as the first hire in the state certified by the new program enacted earlier this year.

(Springfield–jc)  One state bill would make September 10th  “Charlie Kirk Day” in Illinois. Kirk was shot on September 10,  as he was preparing to address a crowd of college students at Utah Valley University. 53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema Republican from Channahon says the designation bill has been filed…

53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema, Republican from Channahon

Senate Bill 2694  now  awaits committee assignment.

(Danville–jc)  The Vermilion County Highway Department says Kickapoo Park Road will be closed today to prepare for and place the asphalt pavement at the site.  Traffic will be detoured using Henning Road  Kickapoo Park Road is expected to be closed for two days depending on weather conditions.

(Rantoul–jc)  –  A free airplane flight day is set for the village of Rantoul in mid-October. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says the Young-Eagles group is hosting the event on Saturday October 18th…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Springfield–jc)  – The Illinois Department of Public Health is reminding residents to take precautions against tick bites. Health officials say an Illinois resident recently became seriously ill with Powassan, a tick-borne illness that had not previously been detected in the state. They say the case serves as a reminder to protect against all illnesses associated with ticks.

WPXN news notes…

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

The Ladies Aid group of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Buckley will have a bake/garage sale from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, September 26, and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, September 27, at the Buckley American Legion post. 

The Elliott Amvets will hold their pork chop sandwich dinner on Friday, September 26th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $8 and includes the sandwich and a side.

The Cadillac in Paxton will host Country Line Dancing with DJ Maggie B on Friday, September 26th from 8-11 pm.

Gifford Fall Townwide garage sales will take place Saturday, September 27th.

(The Center Square) – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Acting Director Todd Lyons has contacted the attorneys general of California, Illinois and New York about their states’ noncompliance with ICE detainer requests and policies of releasing dangerous criminals onto the streets. The states have policies prohibiting local jurisdictions, including jails and prisons, from complying with ICE detainer requests. ICE has lodged thousands of detainer requests with jurisdictions where illegal foreign nationals are already in custody after they’ve been charged with crimes in order to transfer them into federal custody.

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Governor JB Pritzker announced the Illinois State Fair and Du Quoin State Fair attendance totaled over 1 million in 2025. 

The governor said that Illinois state fairs are a part of a time-honored tradition for generations of families and this year’s attendance figures are proof of the enduring value of state fairs as over 1 million attendees  Springfield welcomed 723,079 attendees to the Illinois State Fair, marking the second-largest turnout in its history.

The Du Quoin State Fair drew 282 thousand people, breaking the previous record of 204 thousand set last year. 

Danville, IL- The Vermilion County Coroner, Jane McFadden stated that an early morning accident at the intersection of Bowman Avenue and Poland Road on Monday morning claimed the lives of two men; a 37-year-old Danville man identified as Jeremiah M. Thayer and a 56-year-old Covington, Indiana man identified as Robert A. Onley. Autopsies are scheduled and notification of next of kin for both men has been made.  No information is available as to the condition of the other man involved.  The Vermilion County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate.

(Paxton–jc)  –  City of Paxton leaders are applauding the efforts of a local group that is helping with some signage in downtown Paxton. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold provides some insight into the new signage coming on Pells street in the city…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Chicago–jc)  – Cardinal Blase Cupich of the Archdiocese of Chicago has issued a statement after receiving criticism for plans to honor Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin at a November fundraiser for immigration ministry. Cupich said the event will recognize Durbin’s contributions to advance Catholic social teaching in the areas of immigration, care of the poor and world peace. Diocese of Springfield Bishop Thomas Paprocki said he was shocked that the Archdiocese of Chicago would honor Durbin with a lifetime achievement award when the senator has a long record of supporting legal abortion and opposed legislation to protect children who survive failed abortions.

(Springfield–jc) The Illinois Attorneys association said in a press release that two area attorneys have received a short suspension. The court released said that Thomas DeVore of Lichfield had an inappropriate relationship with a client and Lauren McQueen of Paris took 9 thousand dollars in funds from the Champaign County Bar Association. Both will be suspended from law practice from October 9th through December 9th.

(The Center Square) – With Illinois’ gun ban now in the hands of a three judge panel of the federal appeals court, some are plotting out what’s next.

This week’s oral arguments featured challenging questions from Judge Amy St. Eve for both sides. St. Eves is new to the panel. The other judges on the panel split in 2023, Judge Michael Brennan with the plaintiffs and Judge Frank Easterbrook with the state. Gun rights advocate Todd Vandermyde said it’s hard to tell which way the case goes with St. Eve on the panel. The district judge found the law unconstitutional last year after a four-day bench trial and thousands of pages of evidence and testimony.

(Paxton–jc)  Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is the Paxton Christmas Parade Committee.  Paxton Christmas parade Committee Chairman Dawn Mertes says the parade is set for the same usual time on the Saturday after Thanksgiving…

she says the parade theme this year is “Once Upon a Christmas”...

Paxton Christmas Parade Committee Chairman Dawn Mertes

We will have more with Dawn on later newscasts today and a full interview during the noon news. 

(The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker is defending the use of taxpayer dollars for community violence intervention, even after he posed for a picture with an alleged C-V-I worker who was wanted in four states.  The governor was at a support center at Joliet Junior College Tuesday. The governor was asked how he would make sure that taxpayer dollars were not going to people wanted for crimes.

(Urbana–jc) With the dry and hot weather, harvest has begun in East Central Illinois. Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady says around 20 percent of soybeans have been harvested…

Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady

(Rantoul–jc)  Business in Rantoul continues to grow and the holiday shopping period is ready to begin soon. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third talks about the addition of Kinos Coffee to the downtown area of the village and the anticipation of 4th quarter shopping…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is directing state agencies to identify up to 4% of Fiscal Year 2026 general funds for the mitigation of White House policies. In an executive order announcement filled with criticism of President Donald Trump, the governor said he would conduct immediate budget reviews to identify efficiencies and reductions and limit non-essential spending and travel.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Buckley Loda High School track area is the venue for the 20-25 Paxton Area Down Syndrome Awareness Walk. the event is set for this sunday from noon until 2pm. The walk steps off at 1-15, and event spokesperson Darla Schall says money raised is going to books for local schools…

Paxton Area Down Syndrome Awareness Walk Event Spokesperson Darla Schall

WPXN News notes…

The Ladies Aid group of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Buckley will have a bake/garage sale from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, September 26, and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, September 27, at the Buckley American Legion post. 

The Elliott Amvets will hold their pork chop sandwich dinner on Friday, September 26th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $8 and includes the sandwich and a side.

The Cadillac in Paxton will host Country Line Dancing with DJ Maggie B on Friday, September 26th from 8-11 pm.

Gifford Fall Townwide garage sales will take place Saturday, September 27th.

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting the Loda Methodist Men on Saturday, September 27th from 10-2.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their Mountain Oyster lunch on Saturday, September 27th from noon to 2pm. Cost is $15 and includes oysters, chicken liver and onions and gizzards.

Rantoul/Paxton VFW will host the West End Boogie Project band playing your favorites from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s Saturday 27th from 6-9. 

(Chicago–jc) –  U.S. Border Patrol Commander Op At Large Gregory Bovino says Operation Midway Blitz has led to the arrest of an Iranian national who was convicted of aggravated kidnapping and criminal sexual abuse. Bovino wrote in an X post the unnamed individual is facing a new felony charge for re-entry of a removed alien.

(Undated-jm) – Average gasoline prices in Illinois have decreased by 8.2 cents per gallon over the past week, now averaging $3.35 per gallon, according to a survey conducted by GasBuddy of 4,378 stations across the state. Compared to a month ago, prices in Illinois are down by 5.4 cents per gallon and are 7.9 cents per gallon lower than the same time last year. In contrast, the national average price of diesel has seen a slight increase of 0.7 cents over the past week, currently standing at $3.66 per gallon.

(Illinois–jc)--  Starting next year, Illinois public libraries like those in Paxton Rantoul and Champaign to those around the state of Illinosmust stock opioid overdose antidotes  WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the story…

(Momence-jm) — As part of National Cold Case Month, the Illinois State Police is renewing efforts to solve the 2007 double homicide of Pamela Branka and Paul Jones. On January 13, 2007, a 911 call was made from the Burger King attached to the Circle K gas station at 3 Gladiolus Street in Momence. A female was heard screaming but was unable to speak to the dispatcher. The Momence Police Department arrived approximately one minute later and discovered both Burger King employees, Pamela Branka and Paul Jones, deceased at the restaurant. Authorities urge anyone with information related to the investigation to visit the Illinois State Police Investigative Tips website or email tips to ISP.CRIMETIPS@illinois.gov.

(Danville-jm) – The Vermilion County Sheriff's Department is investigating a fatal crash that occurred at 8:24 a.m. on Monday at the intersection of Bowman Avenue and Poland Road. According to the initial investigation, a vehicle traveling northbound on Bowman Avenue collided with a vehicle traveling eastbound on Poland Road after the eastbound vehicle failed to yield and entered the intersection. The impact forced both vehicles into a ditch. The crash resulted in the deaths of the sole occupant of the eastbound vehicle and one of the two occupants in the northbound vehicle. The second occupant of the northbound vehicle was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

(Springfield–jc)  The Illinois Department of Central Management Services is expanding its Intern to Hire Program partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation to include engineering roles.According to a CMS statement, the initiative provides a pathway for aspiring civil engineers to launch long-term public service careers in Illinois.

The program offers structured, paid internships leading to full-time state employment.

(Chicago–jc)  –The Chicago Fed Survey of Economic Conditions Activity Index decreased to –14 in September from +1 in August, suggesting that economic growth was below trend. The survey includes parts of Illinois and four other Midwestern states. The September number still represents an improvement from -22 in July.

(Champaign–jc)  – In order to facilitate deliveries at Gies Memorial Stadium, the University of Illinois will close one westbound lane of Kirby Avenue between First Street and Fourth Street. The closure will begin this morning,  and will reopen on Saturday. During the closure, westbound traffic will be reduced to one lane in the area.

(Springfield–jc)  The most recent data for the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the agricultural sector is still the most dangerous in America.

Fall harvest time can be one of the busiest and most dangerous seasons of the year for the agriculture industry. For this reason, the third week of September has been recognized as National Farm Safety and Health Week.  Illinois  House Minority Leader Tony McCombie says she stands with the agriculture community…

Illinois House Minority Leader Toni McCombie 

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Scientists, government officials and participants from around the world gathered on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus for the grand opening of the National Science Foundation’s Illinois BioFoundry, or iBioFoundry, and the National Institute for Biofoundry Applications at the University of Illinois. The new facility is now open at the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology on the U. of I. campus in Urbana.

(Springfield-jm) – Last week was rail safety week in Illinois. Aiesha Jackson with the Illinois Commerce Commission talks about the importance of the week…

Illinois Commerce Commission’s Aiesha Jackson.

(Paxton–jc)  – Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is Paxton Hardware and Rental. Today is the first full day of Autumn and now is the time for cool weather projects from painting to work projects around the home. Paxton Hardware and Rental Owner Scott Allen says 

Warmer weather still remains as we start the autumn season, but now is the time to complete work on your yard with a grass seed program, gutter clean up projects.

Paxton Hardware and Rental Owner Scott Allen

You can hear more with Scott Allen over the noon news today and on later newscasts. Scott also does a 5 minute Scotts TIps for Success Program on Saturday mornings at

7-30 on WPXN.  Paxton Hardware and Rental is the WPXN Business of the Day today.  

(Granite City-jm) – The White House said Monday that it intervened under the terms of a three-month-old national security agreement with Japan-based Nippon Steel to block a decision to stop processing raw steel at U.S. Steel's Granite City Works plant in Illinois. In a statement, the White House said Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick delivered the message that President Donald Trump would exercise his so-called “golden share” power that was a key element in the Trump administration's decision to allow Nippon Steel to buy out U.S. Steel. Earlier this month, Pittsburgh-based U.S. Steel said it would stop processing steel slabs at its Granite City Works plant in southern Illinois, just outside St. Louis, and “optimize” its operations by focusing on processing at its Mon Valley Works in Pennsylvania and Gary Works in Indiana. On Friday, U.S. Steel reversed course and said it would continue to supply raw steel slabs to Granite City “indefinitely” and that it had "found a solution to continue slab consumption at Granite City.”

(Danville-jm) – A 13-year-old girl was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries after being stabbed during a fight on the 100 block of E. Davis Street in Danville late Sunday. Officers responded to the scene at 11:20 p.m. and discovered the injured juvenile, who was promptly transported to a local hospital for treatment. Following an investigation, police found three juveniles hiding in the basement of a nearby apartment building. A 12-year-old girl, a 14-year-old girl, and a 16-year-old girl were arrested and charged with several counts of aggravated battery and mob action. Authorities have not released further details about the incident, citing the involvement of minors.

(Rantoul-jm) – Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul closed in 1993. Thirty-two years later, the Air Force is trying to determine where so-called forever chemicals, PFAs, are located and how to handle them.  Chanute was in firefighter training school, which used a firefighting foam known as AFFF, an effective foam used in battling aircraft fires. Those training with it, or using it in actual fires, did not realize that AFFF was toxic, possibly linked to cancer and other health issues. The Air Force has taken 496 groundwater samples from a shallow aquifer and 755 soil samples.  A remedial investigation report is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2026. Actual clean-up of the contaminated locations will be sometime after that, once the appropriate steps needed are determined. The Air Force said PFAs have not impacted the Rantoul drinking water supply and have not been found in local wells. The problem with PFAs is that they tend to migrate and do not stay in one place.

What is the outlook this month regarding U.S. milk production? World Agricultural Outlook Board Chair Mark Jekanowski goes over this month's milk production forecasts for both this year and next.

World Agricultural Outlook Board Chair Mark Jekanowski 

WPXN News notes…

Gifford Fall Townwide garage sales will take place Saturday, September 27th.

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting the Loda Methodist Men on Saturday, September 27th from 10-2.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their Mountain Oyster lunch on Saturday, September 27th from noon to 2pm. Cost is $15 and includes oysters, chicken liver and onions and gizzards.

Rantoul/Paxton VFW will host the West End Boogie Project band playing your favorites from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s Saturday 27th from 6-9. 

The Ladies Aid group of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Buckley will have a bake/garage sale from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, September 26, and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, September 27, at the Buckley American Legion post. 

The Elliott Amvets will hold their pork chop sandwich dinner on Friday, September 26th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $8 and includes the sandwich and a side.

The Cadillac in Paxton will host Country Line Dancing with DJ Maggie B on Friday, September 26th from 8-11 pm.

(Foosland-jm) – A fully engulfed corn crib fire spread to nearby fields in Champaign County Friday afternoon, and a number of fire departments responded to the scene. According to the Sangamon Valley Fire Protection District, at approximately 12:19 p.m., their crews were dispatched to the area of County Roads 3200 North and 300 East, southeast of Foosland, for a reported structure fire. This fire was initially discovered by a local farmer. Upon arrival, fire crews found a corn crib fully involved, with surrounding grass also burning. Strong winds quickly spread the fire into nearby fields to the north.

(Paxton-jm) – Thousands of people packed downtown Paxton Saturday despite some rain to enjoy the annual Swine and Dine. Live music was performed by Lexi Tieffel, the Feudin Hillbillys and Diamond Rio. For the BBQ competition, Jay and Jay BBQ won first place beans, best sauce went to Bad Man BBQ, ribs went to Slingin Q and chicken went to Who Wants Smoke. Reserve Champion was Servin Stout and the Grand Champion Slingin Q BBQ.

(Paxton–jc) Motor Fuel Tax road dollars will be put to good use in the city of Paxton early this fall. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says city leaders added a few new streets for the projects…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Saybrook-jm) – A fatality has been confirmed in a Saybrook house fire that happened on Friday. According to the Saybrook-Arrowsmith Fire Protection, crews received a call of a reported house fire in Saybrook at 3 p.m. on Friday. No other details are available at this time.

(Champaign-jm) – A staple event in Champaign is no more. Chaz Ebert, the co-founder of Ebertfest, and Tracy Sulkin, Dean of the University of Illinois College of Media, announced on Friday that this year’s edition of the Ebertfest was its last in Champaign. They said that “financial considerations facing both universities and film festivals” led them to conclude that the festival could not continue in its present form.

(Rantoul–jc) the downtown Streetscape program is going as planned for the village of Rantoul. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the third says the project is expected to be completed by Thanksgiving…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Iroquois County-jm) – Two railroad crossings in Iroquois County will be getting an upgrade, the Illinois Commerce Commission announced. The ICC approved funds to install automatic flashing light signals with gates and constant warning time circuitry at two crossings on County Road East 1300 North.

(Paxton–dm)-If you are thinking about getting a new grill Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen tells us about the Napoleon grill and the Royal King grills

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

(Rantoul-jm) – The traffic lights at one Rantoul intersection will be turned off for the next three months as part of a study to see if they can be removed permanently. Starting today, the Illinois Department of Transportation will turn off and cover the traffic lights at the intersection U.S. Route 45 and Sangamon Avenue. East and westbound cars on Sangamon will have to stop, but heavy traffic on U.S. Route 45 won’t have to slow down. The study will last for 90 days, and if the change is successful, it will be permanent.

(Ford County-jm) – Several fire departments battled a hog barn fire Sunday morning in western Ford County. It happened near 900 north 800 east around 11:30 am. Roberts Melvin, Gibson City and Elliott fire departments were among the ones called to battle the blaze.

(Ford County-jm) – The Ford County Public Health Department will be holding flu clinics around the county. WPXN’s Jason Madden has the details…

(Urbana-jm) – The Bromley Companies and the University of Illinois have announced plans for a new 400-bed residence hall. Bromley Companies said in a press release that Bromley Commons will be a suite-style residence hall for first-year students and will be located blocks away from the main quad. The company added that the hall is expected to open ahead of the fall 2027 semester, and will feature a full-service dining hall, and other amenities, including study lounges, fitness facilities and outdoor activity spaces. The news comes after the University of Illinois System set fall enrollment records, with over 101,000 new students between its campuses in Urbana-Champaign, Chicago and Springfield.

(Loda-jm) – Firefighters from Loda, Buckley and Paxton battled a fire in Loda Saturday morning. They were called to the 200 block of South Locust around 7:30. There’s no word on the cause of the fire.

(USDA–dm)-World Agricultural Outlook Board Chair Mark Jekanowski provides this month's price forecasts for steers and hogs for both 2025 and 2026.

(Vermilion County-jm) – The Vermilion County Farm Bureau Building, on Route 150 West in Danville, will be the location for this Wednesday afternoon’s “Danville Area Regional Roundtable” on educating the future workforce in the area.  From the business side; the agenda will include Illinois Economic Development Council president Christy George, Vermilion Advantage CEO Mike Marron, and Vermilion County Farm Bureau executive director Kerry Wienke. From the education side; the agenda includes Danville High School principal Jacob Bretz, Danville Area Community College president Dr. Randall Fletcher, and Vermilion Advantage Workforce Education Director Jodie Ingram. Wednesday’s Danville Area Regional Roundtable at the Farm Bureau is scheduled for 1 to 3:15 PM.

(Champaign–dm)-Harvest is under way, and there are some serious drought conditions.  Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady has some safety tips should an emergency arise.

Champaign County Farm Bureau Manager Bailey Conrady

(Springfield-jm) – Walgreens appeared before the Illinois Supreme Court to argue against a class action lawsuit filed by concerned customers. The case surrounds credit and debit card digits included on Walgreens receipts. A customer used a debit card at a Walgreens in Arizona and realized 10 digits of her card number were included on the receipt. The federal Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act states that receipts cannot show more than five digits of a card. She filed a class action lawsuit in Illinois stating the company broke the law and put customers at risk for identity theft. Walgreens argued the violation did not cause the plaintiff to suffer concrete harm.

(Springfield-jm) – New data shows the unemployment rate in the State of Illinois dropped slightly last month, even as the number of payroll jobs also fell. The Illinois Department of Employment Security announced on Thursday that the unemployment rate in August was recorded at 4.4%, down 0.2 percentage points from the month prior. It’s the lowest unemployment rate since July of 2023, based on preliminary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The number of unemployed persons was 292,500, down 2.7% from the prior month, and down 12.7% from one year ago.

(Springfield–jc) –Two years after the no-cash bail system fully took effect in September of 20-23, Illinoisans continue to suffer the consequences while criminals walk free. Courts are overwhelmed, police are operating with fewer tools and more unreasonable mandates, all while repeat offenders are cycling in and out of custody. Former law officer and now 105th District State Representative Dennis Tipsword, Republican from Metamora says the safety-act law sides with criminals not the citizens and residents of Illinois… 

105th District State Representative Dennis Tipsword, Republican of Metamora.

(Urbana-jm) – A 17-year-old student from Urbana High School was arrested following a reported threat to commit violence at the school. The Urbana Police Department said the threat was made after a confrontation with other students and was overheard by school personnel, who promptly reported it to the police. The threat involved a statement about shooting up the school. Police officers quickly initiated an investigation and located the student. With the consent of the juvenile's guardian, officers searched the student's residence but found no weapons. The investigation revealed that the threat was made off school grounds, and there is no evidence that firearms were present at Urbana High School at any time. Throughout the investigation, Urbana Police worked closely with Urbana School District officials to ensure the safety of students and staff.

(Urbana-jm) – It’s Official. The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's football stadium will now be known as Gies Memorial Stadium, following a unanimous decision by the Board of Trustees. This renaming honors a $100 million donation from philanthropist Larry Gies.  In addition to the stadium renaming, the Board of Trustees approved an $8.9 billion operating budget for the fiscal year, marking a 7.8% increase over the previous year. The budget emphasizes academic excellence, affordability, and resources for student and staff success.

(The Center Square) – According to a Republican candidate for Illinois governor, schools in the state can succeed without spending big.Ted Dabrowski said two Clinton County school districts, Aviston and Bartelso, had the highest reading levels in the state in 2019. Illinois taxpayers pay about $19,000 per student statewide. Dabrowski said he traveled to Clinton County to talk with teachers, administrators and parents.

Illinois Republican Candidate for Governor Ted Dabrowski

(Champaign-jm) – A Champaign man was sentenced to 60 years for first-degree murder in a 2023 shooting. William Wesley was sentenced following a July 25, 2025 jury verdict of guilty to First Degree Murder in the July 3, 2023, shooting of Marcus Catching Jr. Champaign officers found Catchings with a gunshot wound to the back of his head in a stairwell of his residence at 2541 W. Springfield Avenue. Wesley was arrested in Atlanta, Georgia for his involvement on August 25, 2023. Witnesses identified Wesley as the person leaving carrying the duffle bag and officers were able to connect the stolen Jeep with Wesley following the shooting.

(Rantoul–jc)  Some members of a local union that serves the village of Rantoul held a silent protest at the Rantoul Municipal building on Thursday. Members of the Operating Engineers Local 3-99 held the event as the union continues to re-negotiate its contract with the village of Rantoul. Wages, healthcare and a steady workforce are several issues. The two sides have been working on a new deal for around 14 months. 

(Champaign County-jm) – The Champaign County Sheriff’s Office is appealing to the public for assistance in the ongoing investigation into the 1985 death of Dr. Barbara Bremer. Dr. Bremer, a dedicated psychologist at Carle Clinic, was reported missing on September 20, 1985, by her coworkers. Known for her professionalism and passion for cycling, Bremer was last seen by a neighbor on the evening of September 19, 1985, leaving her home on her green Peugeot 10-speed bicycle. On September 24, 1985, a call to the Sheriff’s Office reported a bicycle in a cornfield, leading deputies to discover Bremer’s body alongside her bicycle. An autopsy revealed she suffered multiple traumatic injuries to her left mandible, anterior neck region, and chest. Her helmet, gloves, and shorts had been removed. Despite efforts at the time, the case remains unsolved.

(Roberts–dm)-The Ford County Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee has been meeting to develop a hazard mitigation plan.  They will meet on Tuesday September 23rd at 630pm to discuss the final plan.  Ford County Emergency Agency Coordinator Terry Whitebird has more information

Ford County Emergency Agency Coordinator Terry Whitebird.  The meeting is being held at the Roberts gym

(Paxton–jc)  – Those in Paxton, early on Saturday morning will be able to use their noses to enjoy the start of the 13th annual Paxton Swine and Dine in the city. The barbeque contest begins at 6 on Saturday. There are also many events to enjoy throughout the day including a kids zone, car cruise, bags tournament and music. Diamond Rio is the headline of acts tomorrow night in downtown Paxton. 

(Paxton–jc) Today’s WPXN Business of the Day is the Paxton Masonic Lodge 4-16. The group has been part of the community since 1870. The group has their location in the commandery building in downtown Paxton. Paxton Masonic Lodge 4-16 spokesperson Jim Sherl says the building in downtown Paxton is the largest in the county…

Sherl says the masons are a Christian based group, helping those in need……

Paxton Masonic Lodge 4-16 Spokesperson Jim Sherl

The group is hosting a raffle to raise money for local projects. Grand Prize is a trip to New York City to see a Broadway Show, stay in downtown New York, air fare and also 500 dollars cash. Tickets are available and the drawing is set for 2pm tomorrow afternoon during the Swine and Dine event in downtown Paxton. 

(Undated-jm) – Starbucks workers in three states took legal action against the coffee giant Wednesday, saying it violated the law when it changed its dress code but refused to reimburse employees who had to buy new clothes. The employees, who are backed by the union organizing Starbucks' workers, filed class-action lawsuits in state court in Illinois and Colorado. Workers also filed complaints with California’s Labor and Workforce Development Agency. If the agency decides not to seek penalties against Starbucks, the workers intend to file a class-action lawsuit. Starbucks’ new dress code went into effect on May 12. 

(Springfield-jm) – An electric vehicle infrastructure project in Champaign was selected as one of 25 across the state that will receive funding from the state to fund construction. State Representative Carol Ammons of Urbana announced on Thursday that Champaign County will receive around $550,000 to build additional charging stations at Champaign’s Meijer, located at 2401 North Prospect Avenue. There will be at least four DC fast charging ports, each of which can fully charge a typical EV in less than 3 minutes.

(Champaign County-jm) – Champaign County warned property owners Thursday of a property scam letter circulating throughout the county. According to a statement from the county clerk, residents have been receiving "vague, but urgent-sounding" letters stating that money is available to the owners if they call the number listed on the letter. Champaign County said the letter is a scam, and they advise people to not call the number or give any personal information over the phone. The county also recommended signing up for property fraud alerts on the clerk's website.

(Champaign-jm) – Community members were asked to stay away from the area of Green Street and 3rd Street in Champaign after a fire broke out Thursday afternoon. An Illini Alert was issued around 3:45 p.m. on Thursday. According to the alert, there was a fire at 303 E. Green St., which is the address of a Campustown apartment. Residents were asked to avoid the area.

(Cissna Park-bp) - The Cissna Park FFA is hosting their annual Pumpkins In The Park, Food will be served throughout the event…FFA Advisor Jeff Clifton has the info…

FFA Advisor Jeff Clifton.

(Normal-jm) – A Champaign man was arrested in Normal for alleged child sex crimes, police say. 35-year-old Nathaniel Stokes faces charges of predatory criminal sexual assault and aggravated criminal sexual abuse. He appeared in McLean County Circuit Court. A future court date has not yet been set. In July, an investigation was started by the Normal police after allegations began that Stokes had inappropriate contact with a girl while he was living in Normal. If convicted of all charges, he faces up to 60 years in prison.

(Champaign-jm) – A mix of drastic dips in mortgage rates and a growing supply in August have reshaped the housing landscape in Champaign County. As fall approaches, the shifting mortgage rates and growing supply of homes on the market are both making an impact. According to the August report from the Champaign County Association of Realtors, home sales continued to ease last month with 255 properties sold. This number is down from both July 2025 and August 2024.

(Paxton–jc)  The 13th annual Paxton Swine and Dine in downtown Paxton is set for all day on Saturday. Paxton Swine and Dine Spokesperson Alan Meyer says most of the activities are free and among the music is national act…Diamond Rio…

Paxton Swine and Dine Spokesperson Alan Meyer. The barbeque contests begin at 6am on Saturday in downtown Paxton l 

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

Downtown Gibson City will host its monthly Friday Night Car Cruise this evening featuring classic cars cruising and parked along Sangamon Avenue, plus live music by Jordan and Jill from 6-9 p.m. and food vendors throughout the evening

Artesia Brewery in Thawville will hold their Oktoberfest tonight and tomorrow starting at 5pm both nights. Activities include German food and beer and live music.

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting Angel Warriors on Saturday from 10-2.

(Rantoul-jm) – Representatives from the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 399 will conduct a silent demonstration outside the Rantoul village administration building today. The protest is planned from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. The union said it is meant to highlight unresolved concerns in contract negotiations over the past 14 months with Rantoul's public works department. Designated union representatives will stand silently, advocating for "fair compensation, safe working conditions, and recognition of the essential services provided by public works employees," according to the union. The union said the demonstration will feature informational signs and a large inflatable rat, but there will be no speeches or amplified sounds.

(Springfield–jc)  One area state senator is urging the state of Illinois to start working with the federal government on the issue of illegal aliens. 53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema, Republican from Channahon, says it is the duty of local leaders, the state of Illinois, and the federal government, to work together…

53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema, Republican from Channahon

(Hoopeston-jm) – An 18-year-old from Hoopeston faces a felony charge following his arrest Tuesday afternoon. Shane Grimoldby was taken to the Public Safety Building in Danville. The Vermilion County State's Attorney will review charges which include 2-counts of Aggravated Assault - with a deadly weapon, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon by a Convicted Felon, and Obstruction of a Police Officer.  Grimoldby is also charged with Possession of Cannabis. Hoopeston Police officers were dispatched to the 500-block of East Penn Street about 2:40 pm for reports of an armed person in the area.  Other details were not disclosed.

(St. Joseph-jm) – Law enforcement is investigating after a St. Joseph Middle School teacher allegedly showed an image of themself engaging in a “sexual act” during a class presentation. Sheriff Dustin Heuerman confirmed that the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident, which took place at the middle school on the morning of September 11. Heuerman said that during a classroom presentation, a teacher showed photos from a personal trip, which were related to current events. While sharing the photos, a thumbnail image showing the teacher “allegedly engaged in a sexual act” was accidentally shown.

(Paxton–jc)  The 13th annual Paxton Swine and Dine is set for the downtown area of Paxton on Saturday. Paxton Swine and Dine Spokesperson Alan Meyer says the event started in the backyard of several residents, moved to Pells park and now it is set for the entire downtown area of Paxton…

Paxton Swine and Dine Event Spokesperson Alan Meyer

(Paxton–jc)  Approving some motor fuel tax projects and a union contract are agenda items for the Paxton City Council when they meet tonight at 7 on the second floor of city Hall. Local leaders will also look to apply for a state grant for repairs on the Clayton Haile walk bridge with the “safe routes to school “ program.

RANTOUL, IL — Rantoul officials are reacting to  Revelist Incorporated, formerly called Vista Outdoors, plans to move 126 jobs in Rantoul to a third party company Rantoul Mayor  Sam Hall, the third, says his office continues to gather further details on the companies decision to move the jobs. Mayor Hall says the primary concern is for the  hardworking men and women who may be affected by this decision, and for their families. Village officials have offered assistance as Revelist Incorporated makes the transition to another facility.  Village leaders will help those affected as they work with the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation, local businesses, and other Community Partners. WPXN news will continue to update this story as more official news is released. 

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Parkland College's Board of Trustees adopted the budget for the upcoming year and approved purchases to improve campus structures and enhance public safety at their monthly meeting Wednesday. The Board approved Protection, Health, and Safety project plans to provide much needed structural and mechanical improvements to campus, including roof and window replacements, HVAC upgrades, and security camera additions. Trustees accepted the FY 2026 budget, which includes a $1,997,604 operating deficit. This deficit includes estimated annual salary increases, projected health care costs, and significant capital expenditures. 

(Urbana-jm) – A truck driver from Tennessee will be spending the next 90 years behind bars after being convicted of a sexual assault that happened in Central Illinois more than two years ago. On April 21, 2023, the Iroquois County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to a roadway in a rural part of the county for the report of a woman who was handcuffed and naked. The woman told deputies that she was abducted and threatened by 56-year-old James Hill of Medon, Tennessee. The victim claims that she met Hill at a gambling establishment in Champaign and that she voluntarily got into his truck. Shortly thereafter, Hill took out a gun, put it to her head and threatened the woman. Hill then stopped the truck somewhere in Iroquois County and pushed her out of the vehicle while she was handcuffed and naked. Hill was ultimately found guilty on four counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault with a firearm, which is a Class X felony.

(Cissna Park–jc) – The Cissna Park Development Board has been busy this summer with their annual “shop the park” series, but also have provided an avenue for local businesses to receive some “grant” dollars for building upgrades. Cissna Park Economic Development Board Spokesperson Jessica Eisenmann says several businesses are participating…

Cissna Park Economic Development Board Spokesperson Jessica Eisenmann

(Urbana-jm) – REO Speedwagon is set to return to the U of I campus during Homecoming festivities. Members of the chart-topping classic rock band will serve as grand marshals of the Homecoming parade on September 26. A post-parade party featuring food, music and fireworks will take place in Lot 31. At the Illinois vs. USC football game on September 27th, the band members will participate in the traditional sounding of the air raid siren and will take the field with Barry Houser and the Marching Illini to collaborate on an REO Speedwagon-themed halftime show that will feature a medley of the band’s hit songs.

(Rantoul-jm) – The traffic lights at one Rantoul intersection will be turned off for 90 days as part of a study to see if they can be removed permanently. Starting Monday, the Illinois Department of Transportation will turn off and cover the traffic lights at the intersection U.S. Route 45 and Sangamon Avenue. Stop signs will be placed to guide traffic through the intersection in the meantime. Drivers are asked to pay close attention to the changed conditions and signs at the intersection, obey the posted speed limits and refrain from using mobile devices.

(Paxton–jc)  The annual Paxton Area Down Syndrome Awareness Walk is set for Sunday September 28th at the Paxton Buckley Loda track area. The event starts at noon with the purpose of getting the community together with the kids,  says Paxton Area Down Syndrome Awareness Walk spokesperson Darla Shall…

Paxton Area Down Syndrome Awareness Walk Spokesperson Darla Shall. A free hotdog meal, Old Salty’s food truck, Bubble fun and raffles hilite the event.

(Champaign–jc)  – The City of Champaign, in partnership with the Champaign County Economic Development Center, is excited to launch a second round of the New and Growing Business Programs. These programs are designed to help start and grow small businesses in the City of Champaign by providing financial assistance and technical support to local entrepreneurs and existing small businesses. The new business program offers up to 10 thousand dollars  reimbursement for a new business. The Growing Business Program offers at to 20 thousand dollars  for established small businesses 

(Gibson City–jc)  One solar farm company is hosting a ribbon cutting event later the month west of Gibson City.  The Earthrise Energy Company is set to start the construction of  two 135-megawatt solar farms in the area, including one northwest of Gibson City. The ribbon cutting ceremony is set for Thursday September 25th at 2pm. The solar farm will use 1 thousand 257 acres of land just west of Gibson City. The is the first solar wind farm project in Ford County. Earthrise Energy is also building a solar farm near Saybrook in McLean County.

WPXN News Notes…

Downtown Gibson City will host its monthly Friday Night Car Cruise on Friday, September 19, featuring classic cars cruising and parked along Sangamon Avenue, plus live music by Jordan and Jill from 6-9 p.m. and food vendors throughout the evening.

Artesia Brewery in Thawville will hold their Oktoberfest on Friday, September 19th and Saturday, September 20th starting at 5pm both nights. Activities include German food and beer and live music

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting Angel Warriors on Saturday, September 20th from 10-2.

The Nashville-based country music band Diamond Rio is the headlining musical act for the annual Paxton Swine ‘N’ Dine BBQ Contest & Festival, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 20, in downtown Paxton. In addition to a free concert, the festival will feature a barbecue competition, a car cruise-in, vendors, a kids zone and a bags tournament.

(Urbana–jc)  –Champaign County Coroner Laurie Brauer is releasing the name of an individual who has died as a result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle crash near Rantoul on Sunday night. Lance A. Baugher, 56 of Rantoul died at Carle Hospital on Tuesday afternoon. An autopsy has been scheduled.

The circumstances surrounding this crash continue to be investigated by Illinois State Police and the Champaign County Coroner’s Office.

(Springfield–jc)Funeral services have been announced for former Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar. The public can pay last respects this Friday from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the rotunda of the state Capitol. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Central Baptist Church in Springfield.

(Chicago–jc)  –Cook County health officials say some travelers at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago may have been exposed to measles. O’Hare’s Terminal 5 was identified as a place of public exposure between 7:30 and 11:00 a.m. last Thursday, Sept. 11. Officials believe a 4-year-old Cook County resident acquired measles during international travel.

(Springfield–jc) ICE agents and more federal agencies are going to the northern part of the state to look for illegal aliens, especially those who have broken additional laws. Reaction to the efforts from local State Senator Chris Balkema, Republican from Channahon…

53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema, Republican from Channahon

(The Center Square) – The Illinois Freedom Caucus has filed articles of impeachment against Governor J.B. Pritzker for what it says is his engaging in conduct that constitutes inciting violence. Part of the impeachment resolution in House Resolution 466 that the Illinois Freedom Caucus filed includes quotes from Pritzker’s State of the State speech on February 19th where he characterized the Trump administration as using an authoritarian playbook.The resolution says Pritzker “has issued inflammatory statements that incite violence against elected officials, citizens, and persons located in the United States and has failed to uphold the constitutional requirement to faithfully execute the laws of the State of Illinois.”

(Paxton–jc)  City of Paxton leaders are taking a pro-active approach to one of the two water pumping wells with some scheduled repair work. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says work will be completed to upgrade one the wells located on the west side of Paxton…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Paxton–jc) Paxton area business owners are reminded about the next Business after Hours event this month. The event is set for Tuesday September 30th from 5pm to 7pm at the Hudz Family Zone in downtown Paxton. Those attending will hear chamber updates, and network with other businesses in the city. The event is sponsored by the Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce.

(Washington–jc)  How does the corn crop look, here and around the nation,  heading into the start of harvest, locally. U S D A Meteorologist Brad rippey has the latest on the corn crop…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad rippey

(Springfield–jc)  –College savings program continues to grow. Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs has announced record asset growth to more than 14 billion dollars for Illinois’ Bright Start 529 college savings plan. The news comes after the Dow Jones Industrial Average, NASDAQ Composite and S&P 500 all set record highs in recent days.

(The Center Square) – The leading Republican in the Illinois House is raising the alarm that Illinois taxpayers are on the hook for hundreds of millions of dollars if the Pritzker administration doesn’t address the food subsidy error rate. Illinois’ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program error rate hit nearly 12 percent, which is  double the 6% threshold that triggers financial penalties. Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie said error rate has gotten worse under the Pritzker administration and if not fixed will cost taxpayers.

(Rantoul–jc)  – The village of Rantoul will be planting several dozen new trees throughout town with a local landscaping company providing the work. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third talks about working with Dehm Landscaping on the approved project…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Paxton–jc)  Bids for a three year lease for Ford County owned farm land parcels are now being accepted. The local Ford County board had looked at longer leases, but a vote for the process did not pass at a recent meeting. Bids for the three year leases are due at the end of business on Monday October13th and will be opened at that night’s Ford County Board meeting. If approved the leases would start in December.

(Springfield–jc)  – 32nd District State Senator. Craig Wilcox, Republican from Woodstock, and his Senate Republican colleagues are inviting friends and families of war veterans to pay tribute to their loved ones at the Illinois State Capitol.

Wilcox encouraged loved ones to submit stories and photos for the Veterans Day Wall of Honor by October 24th. The Wall of Honor is scheduled to be on display from October 28th through November 13th

(Bloomington–jc)  –The IHSA Board of Directors approved several state finals locations for various sports. WPXN’s Joel Cluver has the details…

(The Center Square) – Emergency rules from the Illinois Department of Corrections to scan inmate mail are under review by the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules, with supporters citing safety and critics warning of rights violations and lack of public input. The emergency rule discussed by the committee on Tuesday aimed to shift inmates to electronic mail, adjust how certain publications are delivered during visits and update procedures for legal correspondence. Supporters say the changes are a necessary step to enhance safety and prevent contraband in prisons..

(Urbana–jc)  Two local state legislators are hosting a “town hall” meeting in Champaign. WPXN’s Brayden Perzee has the details…

(Paxton–jc)  Paxton Buckley Loda school board members are set to look at grants when they meet tonight in monthly session. Budget issues are also on the agenda. The local board may also go into executive session to discuss the on-going collective bargaining issues with the district's teachers. The Paxton Buckley Loda School board meeting starts at 7 tonight at the high school

WPXN News notes…

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold a foodmobile on Thursday, September 18th from 9-930 at Edge Insurance in Buckley, 10-10:30 at Durham Park in Onarga, 11-11:30 at the Crescent City community center, 12:30-1 at the Watseka Trinity Church and 1:30-2 at the Milford post office.

The Nashville-based country music band Diamond Rio is the headlining musical act for the annual Paxton Swine ‘N’ Dine BBQ Contest & Festival, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 20, in downtown Paxton. In addition to a free concert, the festival will feature a barbecue competition, a car cruise-in, vendors, a kids zone and a bags tournament.

The City of Paxton will hold brush pickup starting Monday, September 22nd and going from the west side of town to the east side.

The University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine will hold their annual open house on Sunday, October 5th from 10-4 at the Vet Med Basic Sciences Building.

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold a foodmobile on Friday, September 19th from 9-930 across from the Piper City Community Center, 10-10:30 at the corner of Main and Melvin Streets in Thawville, 11-11:30 across from Melvin Convenient, 12:15-12:45 at the Gibson City city hall, 1-1:30 at the Elliott village hall and 2-2:30 at the north side of the Paxton fire station.

Downtown Gibson City will host its monthly Friday Night Car Cruise on Friday, September 19, featuring classic cars cruising and parked along Sangamon Avenue, plus live music by Jordan and Jill from 6-9 p.m. and food vendors throughout the evening.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their monthly breakfast on Saturday, September 20th starting at 6am. Cost is $8 and includes pancakes and sausage and your choice of orange juice or coffee.

(Will County–jc)  A state disaster proclamation has been declared for Boone, Cook, Kane, McHenry and Will counties after severe storms caused flooding and extensive damage last month. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker issued the proclamation Monday. The move ensures state resources can be directed to support local response and recovery efforts and help determine if the disaster qualifies for federal assistance.

(The Center Square) – As Illinois Governor. J.B. Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson push for more community violence intervention funding from the federal government, two anti-violence workers have made news for alleged criminal actions. Prosecutors say seven men are charged with murder after a crash-and-grab burglary led to a crash and killed a motorist on Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago last week. C-W-B Chicago reported that one of the men charged works as an anti-violence peacekeeper. Keller McMillan, 35, also has three out-of-state fugitive warrants and an in-state warrant. Another anti-violence worker was sentenced to 22 years in prison for carjacking three vehicles and shooting one of the victims in the leg. Jamari Edwards, 22, received the sentence last week.

(Chicago–jc)  Former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar has died at the age of 79, following a battle with pancreatic cancer.Edgar was governor from 1991 to 1999 after previously serving as Illinois secretary of state for ten years. Illinois Governor J B Pritzker offered some words about Jim Edgar…

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker.

The governor ordered  flags across Illinois to half-staff in honor of Edgar’s legacy.

(Springfield–jc)  –The Illinois State Board of Education has voted to adopt new performance levels and proficiency benchmarks for state assessments.   The move will affect how Illinois measures whether students are achieving grade-level proficiency in English, mathematics and science and whether they are ready for college. The new performance levels are now lower to meet the standards. 65th district State Representative Dan Ugaste, Republican from Geneva says lowering standards does not help with the education of our children…

65th District State Representative Dan Ugaste, Republican from Geneva

(Rantoul–jc) – The Prospect Substation project  for the village of Rantoul continues. The major upgrade to the electrical services in the village will take a while to complete and is a large investment by the village says Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Undated–jc)  With the drought like conditions throughout East Central Illinois, Ford County ESDA Director Terry Whitebird along with the Champaign County Fire Chief's Association are asking all residents to refrain from open burning. The dry conditions continue today and these conditions are expected to worsen over the coming weeks, increasing the risk of fire hazards. Whitebird says that the safety of our communities and residents is our highest priority, and asks for your

cooperation in reducing fire risks during this critical period.

(Paxton–jc) City of Paxton leaders are looking at the latest proposal for a new contract with some city workers. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says information was given out last week and the full council will meet on Thursday night…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Springfield–jc)  – Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker has proclaimed September 15-21, 2025, Rail Safety Week in Illinois In recognition, the Illinois Commerce Commission  and Operation Lifesaver, a national rail safety non-profit, will be sharing life-saving rail safety information around the state. Around four in every five collisions occur where active warning devices like gates, bells, or flashing signs are already installed. In 2024, 104 collisions were reported at public highway-rail crossings in Illinois, resulting in 20 fatalities and 52 injuries.

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, Republican from Savanna) has announced her support for House Bill 50. McCombie says the proposed bill puts Department of Corrections worker safety ,first by tightening control of inmate mail…

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

(Washington–jc) What is the latest on the U-S soybean supply and demand estimate? World Agricultural Outlook Board Chairman Mark Jekanowski has some answers…

World Agriculture Outlook Board Chairman Mark Jekanowski

(Springfield–jc) State lawmakers passed a House Resolution to make this week, National Farm Safety Week. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, republican from Emmington says harvest time is here…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

(Gibson City–jc)  – Gibson Area Hospital and Auxiliary has a blood drive set for early October. The event takes place at the Gibson Area Hospital Education Center on East 8th street in the city. You can schedule an appointment by calling the Red Cross at 800-733-2767 or visit Red-Cross-Blood-Dot-Org        

WPXN News notes…

The Rantoul Public Library will host Steve Burns, the original host of Blues Clues tonight. The virtual event is set for 7pm.

Impact Life will hold a blood drive at the American Lutheran Church on Wednesday, September 17th from 11:30-2:30.

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold a foodmobile on Thursday, September 18th from 9-930 at Edge Insurance in Buckley, 10-10:30 at Durham Park in Onarga, 11-11:30 at the Crescent City community center, 12:30-1 at the Watseka Trinity Church and 1:30-2 at the Milford post office.

Downtown Gibson City will host its monthly Friday Night Car Cruise on Friday, September 19, featuring classic cars cruising and parked along Sangamon Avenue, plus live music by Jordan and Jill from 6-9 p.m. and food vendors throughout the evening.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their monthly breakfast on Saturday, September 20th starting at 6am. Cost is $8 and includes pancakes and sausage and your choice of orange juice or coffee.

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting Angel Warriors on Saturday, September 20th from 10-2.

(Champaign–jc)  Former Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar died Sunday at the age of 79.

Edgar, a Republican, served as governor from 1991 to 1999. He also served as Illinois secretary of state from 1981 to 1991.Jim Edgar passed away Sunday in Springfield from complications related to treatment for pancreatic cancer

(Rantoul–jc)  – Village of Rantoul authorities are investigating a deadly stabbing that happened on Saturday night. Authorities say officers were called to the intersection of East. Wabash Avenue and Frederick Street around 10 p.m. on Saturday. Rantoul Police Chief Anthony Brown said a male died following the stabbing. The investigation continues this morning.Anyone with information is asked to call the Rantoul Police department. 

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois Governor. J.B. Pritzker has signed an executive order to establish the Statewide Vaccine Access Initiative.The move calls for the Illinois Department of Public Health Director, Dr. Sameer Vohra, to issue a Standing Order to allow eligible providers in pharmacy and other clinical settings to administer vaccines recommended by IDPH. Pritzker said the executive order was necessitated by federal actions, including the dismissal of top administrators from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

(Rantoul–jc)  Village of Rantoul leaders made the purchase of two transformers for the Prospect Avenue Sub-station project. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says bonds for the major project were also approved…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Decatur–jc0  An Illinois lawmaker warns that, according to the latest Nation’s Report Card, Illinois students are still behind in reading and math post-pandemic, while homeschool advocates call for more parent-driven education options.

State Representative . Reagan Deering, Republican from -Decatur, a Mt. Zion Community School Board member and parent, said politicians prioritized teachers unions over students, leaving children behind academically.

(The Center Square) – Former Wirepoints president and banker Ted Dabrowski has launched his campaign for Illinois governor. The Wilmette Republican addressed supporters from the front steps of his home on Friday. Dabrowski left a career in international banking to work on policy solutions for Illinois, most recently as president of Wirepoints. Dabrowski also introduced his candidate for lieutenant governor, emergency room Dr. Carrie Mendoza.

(Champaign–dm)-  During last year’s NFL playoffs, Washington kicker Zane Gonzalez split the uprights to give the Commanders their first playoff win in 20 years. But what got more headlines was his extensive pre-kick routine...as Gonzalez is living with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Tim Ditman of OSF HealthCare demystifies the condition.

You can also immerse yourself in hobbies or a support group...to lessen O-C-D symptoms.

(Washington-jm) – Three Democratic candidates are vying to replace retiring U-S Senator Dick Durbin. One of those is Representative Robin Kelly, whose district extends from the southeast side of Chicago to all of Iroquois, most of Ford, the northern half of Vermilion and the northern third of Champaign Counties. Gun legislation has been a top priority for Kelly. With gun violence still such a prevalent issue, Kelly was asked during an interview with Capitol News Illinois, why voters should trust the Democratic Party on this issue…

U-S Senate candidate and current U-S Representative Robin Kelly. Her opponents in the primary are current Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton and U-S Representative Raja Krishnamorthi.

(Rantoul–jc)  A single car crash near Rantoul caused some traffic delays near last night. State Police say just after 8, troopers were called to U S Route 136 and County Road 1950 East, just east of Rantoul. Detours were set up for several hours. No word on the crash was provided.

(Bloomington–jc)  The IL Corn Growers Association is optimistic after the federal government's  publication of the Make America Healthy Again Commission’s strategy report. Officials with the Illinois Corn Growers Association say  the Commission has listened to the comments of America’s farmers and responded by acknowledging the role pesticides play in conservation priorities on our more vulnerable and most productive soils. District 12 Association Director and Farmer Don Guinnip, called the report an opportunity for the best available science to drive on-farm decisions.

(USDA–dm)- After the August forecast of record corn production and yields, USDA in September continues to report this year's crop should reach record highs.

Rod Bain has the story.

(Champaign–dm)- If you are looking for a job, or thinking about a career change, the Champaign Public Library will be hosting a Community Job Fair on Monday September 15th from 5:30 to 7:30.  Champaign Public Library Career Librarian Kat Purcell has details.

Champaign Public Library Career Librarian Kat Purcell.  The Champaign Library is located at 200 W. Green street

(The Center Square) – An Illinois lawmaker and law enforcement officer reacts to Gov. J.B. Pritzker's enacting a law requiring schools to report firearms or threats to principals, a move supporters say improves safety. State Rep. Dennis Tipsword, R-Metamore, described the bill as “just common sense kind of legislation” that ensures threats are at least reported to the proper school authorities.Tipsword explained that while the law establishes a baseline for reporting, schools and local law enforcement agencies can still conduct full threat assessments if they choose.

(Danville–jc)  –A Danville man has been sentenced to life in prison after he was convicted of the carjacking and murder of Daniel Walter in 2020.Kevin Marshall, 35, was previously convicted of second-degree murder for the killing of Latifah Cross in 2013. Prosecutors say Marshall killed Walter about three months after he was released from custody.

WPXN News notes…

The Rantoul Public Library will host Steve Burns, the original host of Blues Clues on Tuesday, September 16th.

Impact Life will hold a blood drive at the American Lutheran Church on Wednesday, September 17th from 11:30-2:30.

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold a foodmobile on Thursday, September 18th from 9-930 at Edge Insurance in Buckley, 10-10:30 at Durham Park in Onarga, 11-11:30 at the Crescent City community center, 12:30-1 at the Watseka Trinity Church and 1:30-2 at the Milford post office.

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold a foodmobile on Friday, September 19th

from 9-9:30 across from the Piper City Community Center, 10-10:30 at the corner of Main and Melvin Streets in Thawville, 11-11:30 across from Melvin Convenient, 12:15-12:45 at the Gibson City city hall, 1-1:30 at the Elliott village hall and 2-2:30 at the north side of the Paxton fire station.

Downtown Gibson City will host its monthly Friday Night Car Cruise on Friday, September 19, featuring classic cars cruising and parked along Sangamon Avenue, plus live music by Jordan and Jill from 6-9 p.m. and food vendors throughout the evening.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their monthly breakfast on Saturday, September 20th starting at 6am. Cost is $8 and includes pancakes and sausage and your choice of orange juice or coffee.

(Paxton–jc) The Paxton, Rantoul and Hoopeston communities have lost a great radio man and friend in  the death of Paxton resident Dan Daugherity. Daugherity was originally from Streator.  Dan was instrumental in the early days of local radio in the 1960s  with WRTL in Rantoul and then went to help start two other radio stations with WHPO in Hoopeston and WPXN radio in Paxton in the 1980s.Dan was selected for the IBCA Basketball Hall of Fame in 20-21. Dan was a mentor, educator, sports broadcaster, a Christian, family man and friend. He will be missed.

(Washington-jm) — U.S. Representative Mike Bost Thursday joined U.S. Representatives Mary Miller and Darin LaHood in introducing a House resolution honoring the life and legacy of conservative leader and Illinois native Charlie Kirk. Kirk was shot and killed Wednesday during an event in Utah.

(Streator-bp) - One local state representative is helping with a paper shredding event. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting says the free event is set for Streator…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emmington

(Chicago-jm) – Governor JB Pritzker believes this week's U.S. Supreme Court decision is allowing White House Border Czar Tom Homan and ICE to racially profile people in Chicago, but the Trump administration said they are committed to getting criminals off the street. President Donald Trump is apparently stopping his plans to bring the National Guard into Chicago, but the Department of Homeland Security is still moving forward with Operation Midway Blitz. Pritzker is concerned that the Trump administration is attacking Latino communities across the country and causing chaos in Illinois. The governor is furious that ICE is now stationed outside of courthouses in an attempt to detain people while they are seeking asylum through the legal process.

(Rantoul–jc)  –  Village of Rantoul officials are working on several state grants to provide funding for upgrades on streets where school children walk to school. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says the village board gave their “goahead” to apply for a grant…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Champaign-jm) – The Associated Firefighters of Illinois are calling for statewide safety measures after two Champaign firefighters and an Arrow EMT were stabbed during a mental wellness call. The group is calling for a statewide plan to keep first responders safe including requiring law enforcement presence for all mental wellness calls. The firefighters were released from the hospital and are home recovering. Trevor Lewis is facing attempted first degree murder charges. A judge ordered Lewis to remain in custody and undergo a physiatric evaluation. He’s due back in court October 1.

(Danville-jm) — The Illiana VA health Care System will receive infrastructure improvements after the Department of Veterans Affairs realigned an additional $800 million this fiscal year to repair and update aging technology. The extra money will be spent on a variety of improvement projects at VA health care facilities across the U.S., including Danville's facility. Improvements include replacing air handler units, EHRM infrastructure upgrades and project support services.

(Roberts–dm)-The 4th annual Flessner Fall Fest takes place this Saturday September 13th in Roberts. The annual event is a fundraiser for Mason and Dawson Flessner, both who are battling Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy We recently talked with Flessner Fall Fest organizer Lindsey Flessner in Arkansas where one of their sons was receiving gene therapy treatments, and she tells us where the funds go from the fall fest.

Flessner Fall Fest Organizer Linsdey Flessner.  Proceeds also go to support  Muscular Dystrophy research.  The Fall Fest Activities starts at 8am and goes thru 3pm at the Roberts gym

(Gibson City–jc)  – A pre bidding process for a state-of-the art pool in Gibson City is set for later this month. Gibson City pool committee members say bidding will take place at 10am on Wednesday September 24th at city hall.Bids will then be opened on October 13th. Gibson City leaders have also applied for an Oslad grant. The group has 247 thousand dollars in the pool fund, to date.

(Springfield-jm) – A new Illinois law will allow people to have easier access to sterile hypodermic needles and syringes. The law will require pharmacies to sell sterile syringes and needles to patients with prescriptions if they are in stock. Sponsors said pharmacists will be able to use their professional judgement to sell the equipment to any customer for proper administration of medications. This plan was filed after a constituent was unable to receive the equipment from their pharmacist.

(Springfield-jm) – School districts will soon be required to include suicide prevention contact information on the back of school employee IDs. Illinois currently requires districts to include this information on identification cards for students in grades 6 through 12. A new state law will ensure teachers and other school staff have the same information readily available.

(USDA–dm)-The Agriculture Secretary says ag will be a key part of a strategy announced this week to improve national nutrition and child chronic disease prevention. Rod Bain has the story.

(Undated-jm) – The latest U-S Drought Monitor has been released. Southern Ford, most of Vermilion and Iroquois Counties are in abnormally dry conditions. Most of Champaign County and the southwestern part of Ford County are in moderate drought conditions. Parts of west-central Champaign County and northern Piatt Counties are in severe drought. The forecast shows temps in the upper 80s low 90s through early next week with little to no rain in the forecast..

(Cissna Park-bp) - The Cissna Park FFA is hosting their annual Pumpkins In The Park. The event is set for  Saturday October 4th. Cissna park FFA Advisor Jeff Clifton  says the day starts with a pancake breakfast, but there is much more…

Cissna Park FFA Advisor Jeff Clifton.

(Champaign-jm) – Parkland College unveiled for the first time Tuesday its brand new mobile education unit called the "Cobra Pathfinder." Inside the Pathfinder, career carts allow students to try out what it would be like to work in a certain profession. The goal is to help high schoolers and middle schoolers find their interests as early as possible. The unit will stop at different high schools and middle schools in the area to give students a chance to try out different jobs.

(Champaign-jm) – State Senator Paul Faraci and State Representative Carol Ammons will host a joint town hall at the Illinois Terminal located in Champaign. The event will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. next Thursday on the 4th floor of the Illinois Terminal in Champaign. Consisting of two informational panels – one focused on education, housing and Medicaid cuts, and one focused on utility issues – the town hall will provide constituents with an opportunity to learn more from elected officials and industry experts on rising energy costs and the impact of the federal government’s cuts to social services.

(Paxton–jc)  –Yesterday was Patriot Day around the United States. If you are old enough, do you remember where you were 24 years ago. Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says even through the first weekend in 20-01 there was a national feeling for the lives taken in 9-11…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Urbana–jc)-- A motorcycle driver was fatally injured Wednesday night in Champaign County.  The crash happened on Cunningham Avenue near the on-ramp to eastbound I-74. The Urbana Police Department said in a news release that a semi-truck was making a left turn when the driver failed to yield to oncoming traffic. He hit two motorcycles that were driving northbound on Cunningham. The other motorcyclist suffered minor injuries, was treated at the hospital and released. The driver of the semi-truck was given a ticket for failing to yield to traffic.

(Illinois–dm)-The Illinois Freedom Caucus says members are “devastated and horrified” by the murder of conservative radio and podcast host Charlie Kirk. Caucus members say Kirk was a Christian, a husband, a father and a patriot who helped advance conservatism in his home state. Kirk was born in Illinois and launched Turning Point USA in the Land of Lincoln.

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner tonight from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10 per plate and includes salad and garlic bread.

The Shop in the Park in Cissna Park will take place on Saturday from 9-1. Activities include craft and vendors, live music and food.

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting the Methodist Women of Paxton on Saturday from 10-2.

The Grammy-nominated rock band Fuel is the headlining musical act for the annual Gibson City Harvest Fest on Saturday in downtown Gibson City. Opening for Fuel is the Champaign-based party band X-Krush. General admission to the concert is free. 

The annual Flessner Fall Fest is set for 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, at 118 Weldon St. in Roberts, featuring a pancake and sausage breakfast, kids inflatables, a corn pit, live music, food trucks, a silent auction, raffles and a 5K family run/walk starting at 9 a.m. To register for the 5K, people can visit runsignup.com/race/il/ roberts/nottodaydmd. The annual event is a fundraiser for Mason and Dawson Flessner, who are battling Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

(Rantoul-jm) – Officers with the Rantoul Police Department responded to Lincoln’s Challenge Academy last month after reports that a student was being battered by a staff member. The incident happened on August 21. In a news release, the police department said a 16-year-old male cadet was interviewed about the battery allegation. During the interview, “minor injuries” were visible, police said. The 16-year-old was taken into protective custody by the Rantoul Police Department.  The Rantoul Police Department identified 25-year-old Isaiah Wallace of Ludlow as the suspect in the battery. On August 25, police interviewed Wallace and he admitted his involvement in the battery, authorities said. Wallace was arrested for aggravated battery and brought to the Champaign County Correctional Center.

(Rantoul–jc)  – New housing continues to be a “premium” in the village of Rantoul. Local leaders gave their approval for some incentives to have a local property owner convert a mobile home area along Scott Avenue into an 8 unit apartment complex. Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third talks about the approval by the board…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Urbana-jm) – A section of I-74 west near Urbana was closed after a multiple vehicle crash Wednesday. Illinois State Police responded around 4:42 p.m. to I-74 westbound at milepost 184.5, which is between University and Cunningham avenues in Urbana. Police said the lanes on the eastbound and westbound sides were closed and traffic was diverted.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Masonic Lodge has its 7th annual “Get out of Dodge” fundraiser going on in the city. The local fundraiser has a grand prize that will take two people to New York City for a Broadway show and more says Paxton Masonic Lodge 416 Spokesperson Jim Sherl…

Paxton Masonic Lodge 416 Spokesperson Jim Sherl. The grand prize was donated by the Grove family. There will also be more prizes given away with the drawings set for 2pm on Saturday September 20th in downtown Paxton .

(Champaign-jm) — The City of Champaign’s Equity and Engagement Department brought neighbors and community leaders together to face one of the city’s toughest challenges. So far this year, January through August, 18 people have been shot in Champaign. Seven of those shootings were deadly. Compare that to last year, when 31 people were hit by gunfire, and five lives were lost.

(Paxton–jc)  Patriots Day or 9-11 Remembrance Day is today. Do you remember where you were that morning? Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold says he remembers…

Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold

(Urbana–jc0  The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has a total enrollment of more than 60,000 students for the first time in school history with a freshman enrollment of 9,207 for the fall semester. Northern Illinois University reported over a 4 percent increase in enrollment for the fall, with a freshmen class that is 22 percent larger than last year.  Illinois State University’s enrollment is up 2percent, and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is up nearly 8 percent

(Springfield–jc)  –Despite reports of food borne illness declining in Illinois over several years, a new analysis of C-D-C data by Trace One found the state still had the 3rd highest count in the country.Other takeaways from the analysis include nationwide, restaurants were the primary exposure setting and shellfish and poultry are often to blame.

(Danville–jc)  Today is Patriots Day, or Remember 9-11 Day. 24 years ago, the United States was attacked in New York City, in Pennsylvania and the Pentagon. 104th District State Representative Brandun Schweizer, Republican from Danville, talks about September 11th 2001…

104th district State Representative Brandun Schweizer, republican from Danville

(Rantoul-jm) – The Rantoul Fire Department is investigating after a home caught fire Wednesday afternoon. It happened near the intersection of Eden Park Drive and N. Century Drive around 12:30 p.m. When crews arrived on the scene, they saw smoke coming from the back of the second floor of the home. Rantoul, Gifford and Thomasboro crews worked together to put out the fire. The residents of the home were displaced.

(The Center Square) – An Illinois congresswoman says that liberal state policies have turned the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program into a magnet for abuse and a drain on taxpayers. In an update from our story on Tuesday, 15th District Congresswoman Mary Miller, a Republican from Oakland says millions of dollars have been taken away from needy Illinois families, because of state policies in illinois…

15th District Illinois Congresswoman Mary Miller, Republican from Oakland.

(Champaign-jm) — The man accused of stabbing two Champaign firefighters and an EMT during a mental health call has been denied pretrial release.  On Wednesday, Champaign County Associate Judge Brett Olmstead ordered Trevor Lewis to be detained pending trial. Lewis stands accused of attempted murder and aggravated battery. According to Champaign Police, on September 4 first responders were called to Neil Street and Buena Vista Drive because Lewis was experiencing a mental health crisis. Police said Champaign Fire and Arrow Ambulance came to transport him to the hospital, but a short time later, they called for help, saying they were being attacked and stabbed.

(Washington–jc)  – Parts of Central and East Central Illinois are in dry and drought conditions.. Harvest is set to begin soon. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey ta;ls about how the dry autumn type weather affects the fall harvest…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Paxton–jc)  Patriots Day or 9-11 Remembrance Day is today. Do you remember where you were that morning? Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third says he remembers…

Rantoul Mayor Sam Hall the Third

(Champaign-jm) – A traveling Holocaust exhibit is coming to the Midwest next month. Marketplace Shopping Center in Champaign will welcome the Courage to Remember exhibit from October 20 to November 1. The exhibit will present information on the Holocaust in chronological order through first-person accounts, historical photos and maps. Courage to Remember will be in the center court of the mall. It is free and open to the public Monday-Friday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

(Paxton–jc)  The Paxton Pride Group held its annual Never Forget, 9-11 Memorial Service this past Sunday at the Grand Old Flag area near Interstate 57. 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Republican from Emington was there and offered thoughts on Patriots Day…

106th District State Representative Jason Bunting Republican from Emmington. 

(Chicago–jc)  – The U.S. Department of Justice will take part in oral arguments in the appeals court challenge of the state’s gun and magazine ban later this month.

The Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals approved a motion for Assistant U.S. Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon to argue against the law, alongside other plaintiffs’ attorneys. A district judge found the law unconstitutional.

(Springfield–jc)  –– Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Acting Director James Jennings Wednesday announced an 18 million dollar notice of Funding Opportunity  to replace existing on-road diesel Class 4-8 medium- and heavy-duty local freight trucks and Class 8 port drayage trucks with all-electric Class 4-8 trucks  Illinois E-P-A will also fund a portion of the necessary new Level 2 or direct current fast charging  equipment if charging infrastructure is needed. Three areas will receive the funding. They include the Chicago area, counties near St Louis and several counties in the middle part of the state including Champaign and McLean Counties, locally. 

WPXN News notes…

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Business After Hours today from 5:30-7:30 pm at Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch.

The Shop in the Park in Cissna Park will take place on Saturday, September 13th from 9-1. Activities include craft and vendors, live music and food.

The Grammy-nominated rock band Fuel is the headlining musical act for the annual Gibson City Harvest Fest on Saturday, September 13th in downtown Gibson City. Opening for Fuel is the Champaign-based party band X-Krush. General admission to the concert is free. 

The annual Flessner Fall Fest is set for 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, September 13, at 118 Weldon St. in Roberts, featuring a pancake and sausage breakfast, kids inflatables, a corn pit, live music, food trucks, a silent auction, raffles and a 5K family run/walk starting at 9 a.m. To register for the 5K, people can visit runsignup.com/race/il/ roberts/nottodaydmd. The annual event is a fundraiser for Mason and Dawson Flessner, who are battling Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Supreme Court has chosen Justice P. Scott Neville, Jr. as the 123rd Chief Justice. Neville will be the second Black Chief Justice in Illinois history, following the late Justice Charles E. Freeman, who served from 1997 to 1999. His three-year term starts October 26, 2025.  Chief Justice Neville said public trust in the courts "requires justice that is accessible, procedures that are understandable, and support services that meet the needs of litigants."

(Undated-jm) – The pleasant fall temperatures will go away for a while, as the warmer weather makes a return. The comfortable temperature readings in the 70s the last several days are expected to go into hiding as this week unfolds.  Central Illinois is expected to deal with summer heat today thru the weekend, maybe hitting the low 90s.  Little to no rainfall is expected as well. That’s a concern as drought conditions are expected to worsen. Some areas have issued burn bans and area fire departments are asking for assistance from farmers if a field fire breaks out during harvest. The latest U-S Drought Monitor gets released tomorrow morning.

(The Center Square) – An Illinois congresswoman says that liberal state policies have turned the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program into a magnet for abuse and a drain on taxpayers. 15th District Congresswoman Mary Miller, a Republican from Oakland says new language in a congressional bill takes illegal aliens off of snap…

15th District Illinois Congresswoman Mary Miller, Republican from Oakland.

(Gibson City-jm) – It’s been one month since a chaotic situation in Gibson City, and the suspect still hasn’t been found. In August, Illinois State Police said that David Jordan shot a Gibson City police officer and a Ford County sheriff’s deputy in Gibson City. Law enforcement responded to reports of a naked man. As they were trying to approach the 70-year-old, he opened fire. Shortly after the shots were fired his home went up in flames. The officer and sheriff’s deputy have been released from the hospital. Illinois State Police said they do not have any updates, and the case is still ongoing. Their tip line is still open however, and they’re encouraging anyone with information to contact them.

(Washington–jc)  The soybean harvest is coming very soon. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey takes a look at the area and nation’s soybean crop as we go into the second week of September…

(Urbana-jm) – Urbana Police are looking for two suspects that fled on foot from a shooting that left a man in serious condition. On Monday, September 8, at approximately 12:35 p.m. Urbana Police officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 1300 block of Dublin Street. Upon arrival, officers located a 24-year-old male inside a residence, suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers found that the victim was shot outside and entered a nearby house afterward. The victim was transported to a local hospital and is currently listed in serious condition. No other people inside the residence were injured.

(Rantoul–jc) The maze is ready and open at Hardy's Reindeer Ranch just west of Rantoul. Along with the “reindeer games” themed maze, co-owner Mark Hardy says there are lots of activities for the whole family…

Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch co-owner Mark Hardy

(Crescent City-jm) – The boil order for the area near Florida Drive in Crescent City is now lifted.  E.R.H Enterprises issued the boil order Monday after a major water main break.  Some two dozen residences were included in the boil order along Church Street, E. Florida and also on Grant, Maple and Ash north of E. Florida.

CHAMPAIGN, IL — The Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois  and Champaign Firefighters Local 1260 are urging stronger protections for first responders after two firefighters and a paramedic were stabbed during a September 4 emergency call. The organizations will be available to discuss the incident and statewide concerns about first responder safety  following the detention hearing for Trevor Lewis at 10 this morning  at the Champaign County Courthouse.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Corrections doesn’t know how many recently released prisoners have gone on to commit new crimes, WGN Investigates has learned. Tracking recidivism rates are a key metric to determine whether the state is effectively rehabilitating convicted criminals or merely warehousing them.  In fact, reducing recidivism is mentioned two dozen times in IDOC’s most recent annual report.  However, IDOC officials acknowledge they have not been able to calculate the recidivism rate since 2022 due to what they describe as a computer “programming issue.” In 2022, the last time the number was updated, IDOC reported just under 37-percent of inmates re-offended within three years of their release. 

(Washington–jc)  The Federal Department of Justice is suing the state of Illinois for using tax payer monies on school fees for illegal aliens. Reaction on the issue from 53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema, republican from Channahon…

53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema, Republican from Channahon

(Rantoul-jm) – The Illinois Department of Child and Family Services is investigating Lincoln’s Challenge Academy in Rantoul. A spokesperson with DCFS confirmed to WCIA that the agency is investigating the educational institution but declined to provide further details because this is an open investigation. WCIA reached out to the Illinois National Guard, who advises Lincoln’s ChalleNGe Academy. A spokesperson for the National Guard confirmed that a staff member has been terminated for “policy violations.”

(Paxton–jc)  The annual Paxton Swine and Dine is set for Saturday September 20th in the downtown area of Paxton. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says registration is now open for the barbeque contests, bags tournaments and party pit passes are also available…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — University of Illinois alumnus Larry Gies has made a 100 million gift to the Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics . The commitment is the largest gift in the school’s history and represents one of the largest single gifts ever received by a college athletics program. Gies, whose name also adorns the University's College of Business, is one of the most influential philanthropists in Illinois history, and his unprecedented support will create an immediate and lasting impact for current and future Fighting Illini student-athletes. In recognition of Gies' contribution, Illinois' Memorial Stadium, just one year removed from its 100th anniversary, will now be known as Gies Memorial Stadium.

(Washington–jc)  – The corn harvest is underway in parts of the U.S. during this second week of September U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at the crop around the area and nation…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

WPXN News notes…

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Business After Hours on Thursday, September 11th from 5:30-7:30 pm at Hard’s Reindeer Ranch.

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold a foodmobile on Friday, September 12th from 9-10 at 185 W. Sangamon Avenue in Rantoul and 10:30-11 at the Ludlow Community Center.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, September 12th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10 per plate and includes salad and garlic bread.

The Shop in the Park in Cissna Park will take place on Saturday, September 13th from 9-1. Activities include craft and vendors, live music and food.

(Springfield-jm) – Student teachers in Illinois now have more opportunities to be paid for their work. A new state law bans public universities from enforcing rules that block student teachers from being paid during their placement. While the law does not require payment for student teachers, it eliminates longstanding prohibitions that block school districts, colleges, and nonprofit organizations from providing stipends or wages.

(Gibson City–jc) A new community action group has been formed in Gibson City to look at ways to promote the Gibson City community and area towns. It is called, “The Greater Gibson Area Economic Alliance.” Several businesspeople, members of the city council and citizens met with Gibson City Mayor Dan Dickey last November to start the group. The Greater Gibson Area Economic Alliance spokesperson Tom Bennett provides some insight into the purpose for the group…

The Greater Gibson Area Economic Alliance spokesperson Tom Bennett

(Urbana–jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is asking for the public's help in identifying a suspect involved in an aggravated battery incident at a McDonald's in Urbana. The incident occurred on August 29, 2025, at approximately 7:58 p.m. at the McDonald's located in the 600 block of North Cunningham Avenue. According to police, a customer became irate when staff could not locate his online order. When an employee attempted to assist, the suspect forcibly grabbed the food, spilling it, and then threw a drink on the employee before fleeing the scene. The suspect, captured on video, is described as a Black male in his mid-30s, approximately 5’6” to 5’9”, 170 pounds, with braids in a bun. He was wearing black glasses, a grey long-sleeved shirt, and black pants. The order was placed under the name "Velly."

(Rantoul–jc)  There is a new coffee shop in downtown Rantoul. It is the 3rd location for Kino’s Coffee. The family owned business started in Cissna Park in 20-18, expanded to downtown Paxton and now is open in downtown Rantoul. Kinos co-owner Jared Kaeb says they are partnering with A House of Flowers in the downtown area of the village…

Kinos Coffee Shop Co-Owner Jared Kaeb. All three shops have a wide variety of coffees, teas, smoothies, along with homemade desserts to breakfast and lunch sandwiches. The Rantoul Kinos opened on September 2nd. 

(Danville-jm) – What was originally feared to be the area’s biggest firearms heist of 2025, 21 rifles reported stolen in July from a Danville VFW post, turned out to be a false alarm. Missing from the report dropped off at the Danville Public Safety Building was one key detail: They were ceremonial rifles. The rifles went missing before the state VFW was put in charge of Danville’s now-closed VFW Post 728. The ceremonial rifles were discovered missing during the administrative process of shutting down the Pine Street post, which had been suspended and had its charter revoked. The state VFW filed a police report and notified the federal branch that issues the rifle.

(Washington-jm) – Three Democratic candidates are vying to replace retiring U-S Senator Dick Durbin. One of those is Representative Robin Kelly, whose district extends from the southeast side of Chicago to all of Iroquois, most of Ford, the northern half of Vermilion and the northern third of Champaign Counties. Gun legislation has been a top priority for Kelly…

U-S Senate candidate and current U-S Representative Robin Kelly. Her opponents in the primary are current Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton and U-S Representative Raja Krishnamorthi.

updated(Paxton–jc) Tickets for the 7th annual Paxton Area Chamber of Commerce Wine and Chocolate Walk are on sale. The event date is Saturday October 4th. The event will run from 11am until 4-30pm. Only 250 tickets will be sold for the event and tickets are 30 dollars each. The event has sold out over the past several years. Eventbrite- on-line is one place to purchase tickets for the event

(Champaign–jc)   A detention hearing is set for tomorrow for a Champaign County man accused of stabbing several first responders last Thursday. W-C-I-A  has reported that the second firefighter hurt in Thursday night’s stabbing incident has been released from an area hospital. . Suspect, 23 year -old Trevor Lewis of Champaign, is being held in a Champaign County jail room pending the detention hearing on Wednesday.

(Chicago-jm) – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said it's starting operation 'Midway Blitz' in Chicago to target "criminal illegal aliens." The operation, according to Homeland Security, is in honor of Katie Abraham, who was killed in a drunk driving hit-and-run crash in Urbana earlier this year. Julio Cucul Bol was arrested several days later in connection with the crime. Police said at the time that Bol provided false information, and police believed he was a Mexican National. Bol later admitted he was a citizen of Guatemala, according to police. In January, Urbana police said Bol was driving an SUV when he rear-ended a car that was slowing down at a traffic light on University Avenue at Coler Avenue. Five people were in the car and two were killed: 20-year-old Abraham and 21-year-old Chloe Polzin. 

(Paxton–jc)  – The annual Paxton Swine and Dine is coming to the downtown area of Paxton this month. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says its a full day of cookout competitions, a kids zone and music…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Champaign–jm) – The Harlem Globetrotters are set to bring their centennial celebration to Champaign this winter. The iconic basketball team will perform at the State Farm Center on January 9, 2026, as part of their 100-year tour. Fans eager to witness the Globetrotters' unique blend of athleticism, comedy, and entertainment can purchase tickets starting Monday, September 22, at 10 a.m. Tickets will be available at StateFarmCenter.com/Globetrotters.

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois Governor J B Pritzker has nominated two new members to serve on the Illinois Prisoner Review Board. The state board has been under scrutiny for allowing too many convicted offenders to go back into society, with several committing new crimes. 53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema, Republican from Channahon, has his perspective on the issue…

53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema, Republican from Channahon

(Crescent City-jm) – E.R.H. Enterprises, Inc. has issued a boil order in Crescent City.  A major water main break on Florida Drive and Church Street led to the boil order, issued Monday. The boil order affects areas of Church Street, East Florida and on Grant, Maple and Ash north of East Florida until further notice.

(Roberts–dm)- On September 23rd the Ford County Emergency Agency will hold a public meeting to discuss how the county has been impacted by severe weather and other hazards.  Ford County Emergency Management Agency Coordinator Terry Whitebird has more information. 

Ford County Emergency Management Coordinator Terry Whitebird.

(Livingston county–jc)   The Livingston County Health Department  Environmental Health Division shares that it has had mosquito batches test positive for West Nile Virus in Livingston County. The batches were collected near Odell. They were the first batches to test positive in the county this year. This month, officials from the Vermilion County Health Department reported positive West Nile in Mosquitoes near Danville, Fairmont and Ridge Farm. State health officials recommend avoiding being outdoors when mosquitos are most active, wearing clothes that cover the skin, using bug repellent, and reporting standing water to local governments.

(Paxton–jc)  – Paxton city leaders will look at city well inspections and repairs when they meet tonight in the city. Council members are also expected to approve bridge panel work on the Pells Street Bridge at the meeting. A redevelopment agreement is also on the agenda for a property at 234 North Market in the city. The Paxton City Council meets at 7pm  on the second floor of city hall. 

WPXN News notes…

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Business After Hours on Thursday, September 11th from 5:30-7:30 pm at Hard’s Reindeer Ranch.

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold a foodmobile on Friday, September 12th from 9-10 at 185 W. Sangamon Avenue in Rantoul and 10:30-11 at the Ludlow Community Center.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, September 12th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10 per plate and includes salad and garlic bread.

The Shop in the Park in Cissna Park will take place on Saturday, September 13th from 9-1. Activities include craft and vendors, live music and food.

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting the Methodist Women of Paxton on Saturday, September 13th from 10-2.

The Grammy-nominated rock band Fuel is the headlining musical act for the annual Gibson City Harvest Fest on Saturday, September 13th in downtown Gibson City. Opening for Fuel is the Champaign-based party band X-Krush. General admission to the concert is free. 

(Springfield–jm) – Major changes to SNAP benefits take effect today. It’s tied to President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, which cut nearly $300 billion from the program. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program experts say many people are anxious, even fearful, about what life will look like once these cuts take effect. Previously, adults ages 18 to 54 with no dependents had to show proof of work to qualify. Under the new law, that age range now extends to 64. Instead of the federal government covering 100% of SNAP benefits, states will now receive less leaving Illinois to make up the difference. Exactly how much less remains unclear, as experts are still waiting on details from the federal government.

(Paxton–jc) A ceremony to remember the 9-11 tragedy of 25 years ago was held in Paxton on Sunday. A medium sized crowd attended the event on Sunday in the city at the city’s Grand Old Flag near Interstate 57. The PBL band and PBL Chamber Choir performed and those in attendance heard from 106th District State Representative Jason Bunting, Paxton Mayor Bill Ingold, and Paxton Fire Chief Denny Kingren. A motorcycle group also was in Paxton and throughout the area to honor those who died on 9-11, 2001. 

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois State Police (ISP) is urging both motorists and farmers to prioritize traffic safety on Illinois roadways this fall. WPXN’s Jason Madden has the details…

(Loda-dg)-Several hundred people gathered on Friday and Saturday to help raise money for the Huntington’s Disease charity event at Lakeview Country Club in Loda. Whether they were a walker, golfer, kids zone participant or dinner guest, $84,986 was raised to help raise awareness for the disease. A huge thank you to all the sponsors and those who donated but couldn’t be there in person.

(Undated-jm) – Emergency crews around the area were busy this weekend responding to calls and urging people to use caution. Late Friday afternoon Paxton and Elliott first responders were called to a two vehicle accident at 200 north 1400 east. One vehicle flipped and the other ended up on its side. A medical helicopter landed at the scene to take a person to the hospital. Late Saturday morning, Rantoul crews were called to a single vehicle rollover accident on Maplewood Drive near the Maranatha Baptist Church. A medical helicopter responded to that accident as well taking someone to the hospital.

(The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he will go to court if President Donald Trump sends the National Guard to Chicago. The governor visited a public school in Berwyn Thursday and was asked what he would do if the president deployed the Guard to help prevent crime.

Illinois Gov J B Pritzker.  Trump expressed frustration with Pritzker’s lack of cooperation with his administration. The president said crime is the number one issue for Republicans against Democrats.

(Undated-jm) – Dozens of motorcycles roared through the area yesterday escorted by firetrucks. It’s part of the annual Illiana Fire Association 9-11 Memorial Ride. The ride started near Danville, made its way into western Indiana before coming through Rankin, Paxton, Ludlow, Rantoul, Gifford and Potomac on its way back to Danville. The group had lunch in Paxton before heading out to the high school to drive past the big flag before leaving town.

(Roberts–dm)-Saturday September 13th is the date for the Flessner Fall Fest.  This is a fundraiser for Mason and Dawson Flessner, both battling Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.  Proceeds also support research to find a cure to end Duchenne.  Flessner Fall Fest organizer Lindsey Flessner has a rundown of the day’s activities

Flessner Fall Fest organizer Lindsey Flessner.

Vermilion County-jm) – Another potential candidate for Vermilion County sheriff has picked up a petition to seek election in 2026. Hugh Sands of Rossville would be a Democratic candidate. Republican Mike Hartshorn already has announced his plans to succeed his retiring father, Pat. September will mark 10 years since Sands retired after a law enforcement career of about 22 years, he wrote in a social media post.

(Illinois–dm)-Unemployment is on the rise in Illinois.WalletHub said the state’s jobless claims last week were 13.74% higher than the week before and 39.31% higher than last year. Illinois ranks fifth on WalletHub’s list of States Where Unemployment Claims Are Increasing the Most.

(Springfield-jm) – As another round of utility bills arrives in the mail, a Central Illinois lawmaker has filed legislation to provide more relief for people struggling to get by. Senator Sally Turner told WAND News it is unacceptable that working and middle class families are left with virtually no option for relief while energy costs continue to rise. Turner's bill could create a home utility rebate program for families who earn too much to qualify for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program but are still hurt by rising energy costs. The proposal calls for rebates to households between 100% and 500% of the federal poverty guidelines. Her plan would create a $500 million rebate fund that the state could use during fiscal years 2026 and 2027. Any remaining funds would also be available for qualified first-time small business owners.

(USDA–dm)-USDA meteorologist Brad Rippey talks about some of the locations in the country that saw significant month over month drought expansion in the month of August.

USDA meteorologist Brad Rippy

(Vermilion County-jm) – Three mosquito batches have tested positive for West Nile virus in Vermilion County. Mosquito batches collected in the Danville, rural Fairmount and Ridge Farm areas have been the first samples to test positive for West Nile this year in Vermilion County. This comes as the Vermilion County Health Department has collected 60 samples of mosquitoes since May.

(Paxton–dm)-It’s about that time of year when you need to start thinking about fall lawn care.  Paxton Hardware and Rental owner Scott Allen has some suggestions.

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

(Rantoul–dm)-The Rantooul Township High School District 193 will hold two meetings tonight.   The first meeting is scheduled for 5:45 for a Budget Hearing for fiscal year 2026.  The regular meeting begins at 6:00pm.  Some of the items on the agenda include approval of medical insurance coverage, approval of the fiscal year 26 budget, approval of bid specifications for a gym/bleecher project.  Also approval of a dance team trip proposal and a travel club trip. The Meeting will be held at the Rantoul Township High School Boardroom.

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has ordered the Village of Forest Park and Motorola Solutions to disable data-sharing capabilities with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Giannoulias’ office discovered that the technology was being used to give CBP access to license plate camera data.

The Illinois Vehicle Code bans the sharing of such data with agencies investigating people based on their immigration status or abortion-related services.

(Chicago–dm)-University of Illinois College of Medicine officials have until Monday, Sept. 8, to produce documents for a congressional investigation of alleged antisemitism at the school’s Chicago campus. The U.S. House Committee on Education and Workforce detailed numerous reports of hostile acts toward Jewish students in a letter dated August 25 of this year. The letter from U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg, R-Michigan, said it has not been demonstrated that the university responded in a meaningful way to address the problem.

WPXN News notes…

The Rantoul Recreation Department will host a Senior Rambles Trip to Arthur on Tuesday, September 9th. Cost is $25. The trip includes entrance to The Great Pumpkin Patch. Dining at Yoders is not included. Reserve your spot by calling 217-893-5703

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold a foodmobile on Friday, September 12th from 9-10 at 185 W. Sangamon Avenue in Rantoul and 10:30-11 at the Ludlow Community Center.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their spaghetti dinner on Friday, September 12th from 5-7 pm. Cost is $10 per plate and includes salad and garlic bread.

The Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Business After Hours on Thursday, September 11th from 5:30-7:30 pm at Hard’s Reindeer Ranch.

The Shop in the Park in Cissna Park will take place on Saturday, September 13th from 9-1. Activities include craft and vendors, live music and food.

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting the Methodist Women of Paxton on Saturday, September 13th from 10-2.

(Chicago–jc)  – The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago’s National Financial Conditions Index was unchanged at the end of August,  suggesting steady financial conditions. The Chicago Fed’s adjusted Index, which is additionally influenced by economic activity and inflation, was also unchanged.

(Chicago–jc)  –Former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan is making another attempt to stay out of prison. Madigan filed a motion Thursday asking the Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals to stay his surrender date, pending appeal of his conviction on 10 counts of corruption earlier this year. The former speaker and Democratic Party of Illinois chairman is scheduled to begin serving a 7.5 year prison term Oct. 13.

(Gibson City–jc)  –  The Greater Gibson Area Economic Alliance continues to meet and look at ways to push for positive economic development in Gibson City and the Ford County area. Greater Gibson Area Economic Alliance Spokesperson Tom Bennett says they just hired a new executive director in Matthew Burns…

Greater Gibson Area Economic Alliance Spokesperson Tom Bennett

(Chicago-jm) – The Trump administration has informed Chicago-area officials that its promised immigration enforcement surge will run for about six weeks, according to the mayor of a suburb that houses an immigration processing center. Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson said in a letter to the village's roughly 8,000 residents this week that the Trump administration told village officials that a two-story building used to temporarily hold immigrants before they’re detained or deported will serve as the “primary processing location” for the expected operation. She said local leaders were told the operation will last approximately 45 days, but she didn't say when it might start.

(Washington–jc)  Harvest time is approaching quickly, and economists with the U S D A are looking at farm income for 20-25. U S D A: Economist Carrie Litkowski has the numbers heading into fall and harvest…

U S D A Economist Carrie Litkowski

(Evanston-jm) – Northwestern University President Michael Schill said Thursday that he will resign, ending a three-year tenure marked by the freeze of hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding by the Trump administration and heated criticism from House Republicans over the university's response to campus protests. The funding freeze and uncertainty over its finances contributed to Northwestern’s decision to lay off around 200 people over the summer. In a statement announcing his resignation, Schill acknowledged the pressure from the White House.

(Paxton–dm)-On Sunday September 7th. at 1 pm the Paxton Pride organization will hold their Never Forget 9-11 Event behind the High School under the Grand Old Flag.  Paxton Pride Spokesperson Kim Evans has more information.

Paxton Pride Spokesperson Kim Evans 

(Normal–jc)  –Illinois State University in Normal’s total enrollment for the fall semester is 21-thousand 994. That is, an increase of 448 students . The new record also marks four years of consecutive growth.  The improvements in enrollment and retention result from a focused effort to improve the Redbird experience through new programs that meet student and employer expectations, as well as expanded student support resources and engagement opportunities.

(Lincoln–dm)- The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice celebrated the grand opening of a new youth center.  WPXN’s Brayden Perzee has the story.

(The Center Square) – A state representative running for Illinois comptroller says she has got the life, professional and government service experience to do the job.

Democrat state Representative . Stephanie Kifowit, of  Oswego, is a Marine veteran, a former city council member and a registered financial advisor. She says her goal is transparency and to secure what’s owed to Illinois. Kifowit could face State Representative Margaret Croke in the Democratic primary March 17. Croke’s campaign announcement video also focused on “efficiency, transparency and oversight.”

(Paxton–jc)  Paxton is, again, the place to be on Friday night with the Paxton Mainstreet First Friday Concert series. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says the Brat Pack band from Champaign is on stage at Veterans’ Square on Friday…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Springfield-jm) – A plan to expand the legal definition of stalking in state statute has become law in Illinois. Sponsors said this law can help victims obtain a stalking no-contact order more easily if the victim feels under emotional distress. Victims will have the ability to seek relief if they receive multiple phone calls from a stalker after telling them to stop, they repeatedly appear at the victim's workplace or outside their home, or follow the victim in a public place.

(Washington–jc)  The corn crop is heading to harvest later this month. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at this years corn…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois will soon expand access to dual language education programs thanks to a new state law. The legislation calls for the State Board of Education to adopt comprehensive guidance for school districts to establish or expand dual language education by December 2026. This law also requires ISBE to establish an optional recognition pathway to recognize bi literacy for school districts to use before high school by July 2027. The change will include milestones for bilingual students in Pre-K, fifth grade, and eighth grade to encourage early learning development.

(Paxton–dm)-The Paxton Church of Christ will be celebrating 140 years of ministry this Saturday and Sunday.  Worship Leader Lyle Adkins tells us about Saturday’s activities.

Paxton church of Christ Worship Leader Lyle Adkins.  There will be a worship service at 10:30 on Sunday morning.  The Church is located at 400 W. Ottawa in Paxton

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Five professors at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have been named University Scholars in recognition of their achievements in teaching, scholarship and service. The program honors faculty excellence and provides $15,000 to each scholar for three years .University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign professors Qian Chen, Emily Knox, Benjamin Grosser, Charee Thompson and Katy Heath were named the 2025 University Scholars. .

(Kankakee–dm)-Clove Alliance is looking for volunteers to join the movement against sexual violence.  WPXN’s Brayden Perzee has more information.

 For more information, you can contact Brittany Fry at 815-932-7273 (EXT 230)

WPXN Weekend News Notes…

Paxton Main Street will hold their 1st Fridays Concert Series this evening at Veterans Square. The Brat Pack will perform hits from the 80s.

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their Friday Night Supper tonight from 4:30–7 pm.

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

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting the Loda Sons of the American Legion on Saturday from 10-2.

The Upper Room Bible Church in Paxton will hold a neighborhood block party on Saturday from noon to 4pm. Activities include food, live music and games.

The Paxton Church of Christ will hold a 140th anniversary open house on Saturday with bounce houses and games at 3, BBQ supper at 5, past ministers speaking at 6 and a free gospel concert at 7.

The Melvin Community Hall welcomes Dennis Stroughmatt and Band on Saturday at 7pm. Doors open at 5:30. Cost is $10 for adults, kids 12 and under are free.

The Illinois & Indiana Firefighters Association’s annual 9/11 Memorial Ride will be held Sunday. Local stops include Rossville at 11:32 a.m., Hoopeston at noon, Rankin at  12:10 p.m., Paxton at 12:21 p.m, Ludlow at 1:37 p.m., Rantoul at 1:51 p.m., Gifford at 2 p.m., Penfield at 2:05 p.m., Armstrong at 2:10 p.m. and Potomac at 2:13 p.m.For more information, people can call Dan Hudson at 217-474-5177 or Melissa Hudson at 217-663-9462.

PRIDE in Paxton will hold a 9/11 memorial event on Sunday at 1pm at the Grand Old Flag.

Paxton’s Grace Baptist Church will host a special outdoor worship service in the pavilion at Pells Park in Paxton at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, followed by a free cookout until 8:30 p.m.

(Chicago-jm) – Chicago community leaders forged ahead Wednesday with preparations for the influx of National Guard troops and immigration agents the city is expecting, advising residents about their rights and organizing protests with fresh urgency. Details about the operation are scant, but President Donald Trump has amped up the rhetoric about crime in the nation’s third-largest city, saying an immigration crackdown and National Guard deployment are planned despite the objections of local leaders. Trump hasn't given a timeline for the Chicago operation, and he muddied the outlook again on Wednesday by suggesting New Orleans as the next possible location.

(Washington-jm) – Three Democratic candidates are vying to replace retiring U-S Senator Dick Durbin. One of those is Representative Robin Kelly, whose district extends from the southeast side of Chicago to all of Iroquois, most of Ford, the northern half of Vermilion and the northern third of Champaign Counties. Kelly says one of her focuses during her time in office has been around healthcare related issues. She was asked during an interview with Capitol News Illinois, about ideas she has to reduce healthcare costs to constituents around the state…

U-S Senate candidate and current U-S Representative Robin Kelly. Her opponents in the primary are current Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton and U-S Representative Raja Krishnamorthi.

(Decatur-jm) – Two years after an explosion ripped through ADM’s Decatur facility, one of the employees hurt in that explosion is suing the company, alleging it is responsible for the blast and the injuries he suffered. The 13-page lawsuit was filed by Springfield-based attorney Timothy Shay, on behalf of production technician Kaleb Ogilvie. Ogilvie was working in the East Plant of the ADM facility when the explosion happened on September 10, 2023, hurting him and seven others. The lawsuit says Ogilvie was severely burned and battered by the blast. He suffered “grievous and life-threatening injuries” that included skull fractures; “advanced degree” burns to his face, eyes, torso and arms; and inhalation injuries to his lungs. He was in a medically induced coma for weeks after the explosion. Just weeks before the two-year anniversary of the event, Ogilvie and Shay filed suit against ADM, saying the company is responsible for causing the blast by ignoring federal safety regulations concerning hazardous materials.

(Springfield–jc)  8 people were killed and 50 others wounded over the labor day holiday in Chicago. Safety continues to be a key issue, not only in Chicago, but the effect over the entire state. Dean Abbott has more…

(Edwardsville-jm) – Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is experiencing a significant boost in enrollment despite shifting demographics and heightened competition for new students. The university's fall 2025 undergraduate degree-seeking enrollment rose by 5.7%, contributing to an overall enrollment increase of 7.7%, bringing the total to 12,813 students. This figure includes continuing, first-time, transfer, and early college students. First-time, first-year student enrollment reached 1,826, marking a 19% increase from 2024 and the second-largest total since 2016. New transfer student enrollment also climbed to a six-year high of 1,165 students, a 20% increase compared to fall 2024. The Schools of Nursing, Engineering, and Business reported the most significant growth in enrollment.

(Rantoul–jc)  It’s September and that means Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch is open for another late summer and fall run of activities. Hardy’s features, of course, the reindeer, but also cart rides, a paintball gallery, hay rides, pumpkins to concessions and a gift shop. Hardy’s Co owner Mark Hardy says the maze is called…”Reindeer games”...

Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch co Owner Mark Hardy. Hardy’s is located just west of rantoul near U S Route 136

(Paxton–jc) It was a water main issue that closed a portion of south Market Street in Paxton on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. City of Paxton workers were on the scene from 10pm Tuesday night til around 6am on Wednesday morning, fixing the problem. Traffic through the area is back to normal

(Springfield–jc0  – The Illinois State Board of Education is inviting school leaders, teachers, parents and community advocates to testify at Fiscal Year 2027 budget meetings scheduled this fall. ISBE says testimony at past hearings led to increased investments in evidence-based funding, career technical education and more.

The first meeting is scheduled for September 30th, in Springfield, and virtual meetings are scheduled October 16th and 21st.

(Springfield-jm) – A federal appeals court has approved Illinois' ban on carrying firearms on public transit, reversing a lower court decision that found the prohibition violated the Second Amendment. The 7th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals delivered its opinion. Judge Joshua Kolar wrote in the majority opinion for a three-judge panel that the Illinois restriction “is comfortably situated in a centuries-old practice of limiting firearms in sensitive and crowded, confined places.” In August 2024, the Rockford-based U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois ruled in favor of four plaintiffs who argued that prohibiting guns on public buses and trains was unconstitutional. It relied on a pivotal 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling known as Bruen that decreed that restrictions on carrying guns in public must be “relevantly similar,” or consistent, with conditions that existed in the late 18th century when the Bill of Rights was composed. It said there were no analogous conditions that justified the transit ban.

(Gibson City–jc)  Rural economic development officials from Western Illinois University were in Gibson City yesterday, as the Ford County city looks at ways to bring new business, hold festivals and bring a better quality of life to the Ford County town. The city of Paxton has used similar resources for rural economic development through W-I-U with the lead of Giselle Hamm. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says Gibson City will add to the bright future of the Ford County area…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper. The meetings will continue on Wednesday evenings through the first week of October.

(Champaign-jm) – The Eastern Illinois Foodbank is urging residents of Central Illinois to unite in the fight against hunger as part of Hunger Action Month this September. Partnering with Feeding America, the food bank aims to provide meals to those in need. This September marks the 18th year that Feeding America has launched this call to action. Residents are encouraged to visit the Eastern Illinois Foodbank's website to learn how they can volunteer or donate.

(Washington–jc)  –  September is here and that means farmers are that much closer to the fall harvest of corn and soybeans. U S D A meteorologist Brad Rippey looks at some crop conditions, heading into harvest…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Livingston County–jc)  –  A Nebraska man is facing charges after Illinois State Police experienced their tenth Move Over Law-related crash of 2025. State police say a trooper escaped without injury when his vehicle was struck on Interstate 55 in Livingston County Tuesday morning. Samuel Gomez, 59, was charged with Driving Too Fast for Conditions, Operating an Uninsured Motor Vehicle, and a Scott’s Law/Move Over Law violation.

(Clinton–jc)  –   The 57th annual Apple ‘n Pork Festival will take place September 27 & 28, from  9am- 5pm both days,, at the C.H. Moore Homestead DeWitt County Museum in Clinton.  The festival, which began with a pot of soup and a stack of sandwiches, has grown to be one of downstate Illinois’ most popular festivals.  Today, the festival offers more than 25 booths featuring numerous types of old-fashioned, harvest-time, apple and pork foods; tours a fine art show; a  flea market with more than 300 booths;an antique tractor show and more. For more information, go to www.c-h-moore-homestead-dot-org 

WPXN News notes…

Paxton Main Street will hold their 1st Fridays Concert Series on Friday, September 5th at Veterans Square. The Brat Pack will perform hits from the 80s.

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their Friday Night Supper on Friday, September 5th from 4:30–7 pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their family dinner on Friday, September 5th from 5-7pm. Cost is $15 and includes your choice of chicken, fish or shrimp and 2 sides.

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting the Loda Sons of the American Legion on Saturday, September 6th from 10-2.

The Upper Room Bible Church in Paxton will hold a neighborhood block party on Saturday, September 6th from noon to 4pm. Activities include food, live music and games.

The Paxton Church of Christ will hold a 140th anniversary open house on Saturday, September 6th with bounce houses and games at 3, BBQ supper at 5, past ministers speaking at 6 and a free gospel concert at 7.

The Melvin Community Hall welcomes Dennis Stroughmatt and Band on Saturday, September 6th at 7pm. Doors open at 5:30. Cost is $10 for adults, kids 12 and under are free.

The Illinois & Indiana Firefighters Association’s annual 9/11 Memorial Ride will be held Sunday, September 7th. Local stops include Rossville at 11:32 a.m., Hoopeston at noon, Rankin at  12:10 p.m., Paxton at 12:21 p.m, Ludlow at 1:37 p.m., Rantoul at 1:51 p.m., Gifford at 2 p.m., Penfield at 2:05 p.m., Armstrong at 2:10 p.m. and Potomac at 2:13 p.m.For more information, people can call Dan Hudson at 217-474-5177 or Melissa Hudson at 217-663-9462.

(Chicago-jm) – The pending showdown between the Pritzker and Trump administrations over immigration enforcement and National Guard deployment will come to a head this week. Governor Pritzker says the Illinois State Police received word over the weekend that ICE enforcement will be beefed up this week. Pritzker went on to say he believes the National Guard may be staging at Naval Station Great Lakes in Lake County. The Texas National Guard may also be preparing to come to Illinois. He said the state will go to court to stop the deployment of troops, and also urged residents to film ICE activities and provide the video to the news media. Downstate GOP lawmakers like Representative Chris Miller of Oakland in Coles County said the Governor should welcome troops. Miller went on to call Pritzker a "petty tinpot tyrant."

(Ogden–jc)  State police were called to an accident in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 74 near Ogden last night. The accident happened just after 9pm near the Champaign and Vermilion County line. Traffic in the east bound lanes were slowed to one lane for several hours. No other information was provided by State Police

(Springfield–jc)  Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says increased K-12 spending during his administration is producing results.  One  potential competitor says the state should be doing much better. Governor Pritzker says the state has invested more into Illinois schools than ever before. That increase makes the investment in students at 2 point 8 Billion dollars…

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker. One potential gubernatorial candidate differs on the outcomes for education. Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski says the reading at grade level rates are horrible…

Illinois Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski

(Champaign-jm) – Officers with the Champaign Police Department responded to Champaign’s Amtrak Station on Monday for a report that a man had battered multiple employees. It happened around 7:10 p.m. The Champaign Police Department said after the battery took place, the man, later identified as 22-year-old Preston J. Powe, boarded a train. Before it left the station however, the man was identified and arrested for battery.

(Paxton–jc)  Traffic is being re routed through a portion of route 9 in Paxton this morning. Authorities are on scene. No other information was available. Please note the area and drive with extra caution through the city of Paxton on South Market street this morning

(Urbana-jm) – Champaign County Crime Stoppers is looking for help from the public in finding the people who broke into a car, stole the victim’s credit/debit cards and then tried to use them at a store. Officials stated that these crimes occurred on August 18. Between 9:00 and 11:30 a.m., someone broke into a car parked in Lot F31 on the University of Illinois campus, located near St. Mary’s Road and Lincoln Avenue in Urbana. After stealing the victim’s credit/debit cards out of the car, the burglar(s) then went to Champaign’s Target on Prospect Avenue. They tried to use the cards to make $1,450 worth of purchases, officials said.

(Springfield–jc) What is the role of Artificial Intelligence or A-I in teaching at the community college level. WPXN’s Brayden Perzee has the story…

(Undated-jm) – Average gasoline prices in Illinois have increased by 0.6 cents per gallon over the past week, now averaging $3.49 per gallon, according to GasBuddy's survey of 4,378 stations across the state. Prices are 5.3 cents per gallon higher than a month ago but remain 12.3 cents per gallon lower than this time last year.

(Chicago-jm) – President Donald Trump said Tuesday that he will direct federal law enforcement intervention to Chicago and Baltimore, despite local officials in both places opposing such moves. Asked by reporters in the Oval Office if he had decided to send National Guard troops to Chicago, Trump said, “We’re going in,” but added. “I didn’t say when.” Trump said he’d like Democratic Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker to call him and say “send in the troops.” Pritzker has opposed the move.

(Springfield–jc)  – Some republicans in Springfield believe there is momentum to repeal some portions of the Illinois Safety Act law that was enacted in the state by the democrat majority in Springfield. 53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema says the current no cash bail system is failing law enforcement, those in the judicial system and citizens of the state of Illinois. He is proposing changes…

53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema, Republican from Channahon

(Hoopeston-jm) – Teasdale Latin Foods in Hoopeston has announced a significant agreement with BCTGM Local 1, the Grain Millers Union, marking a pivotal step forward for the company, its employees, and the local community. The agreement, reached on August 29, includes an immediate 5% wage increase and a cumulative 17% increase over the four-year term, along with 40 additional hours of paid time off annually.

(Roberts–jc)  The  4th Annual Flessner Fall Fest is set for Saturday September 13th in Roberts. The event is  for Flessner brothers Mason and Dawson affected by Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Mom and organizer Lindsey Flessner says a lot of activities are planned for the Roberts village gym and park area…

4th Annual Flessner Fall Fest Organizer Lindsey Flessner. The public is invited to attend to help find a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy

(Champaign-jm) – First responders are at Champaign’s Black Dog, located at 320 N. Chestnut St. after a fire broke out Tuesday afternoon. Black Dog was open for business when the fire began, but no injuries were reported. The roof caught fire just before 1 p.m. The cause was an accidental cooking fire. When crews arrived on scene, they noticed moderate smoke and fire coming from the back of the building. They quickly used multiple hose lines and were able to quickly put the fire out before it extended into the restaurant.

(Washington–jc)  –  What are the weather  trends for a potential  La Nina  this fall and winter. U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey has the details…

U S D A Meteorologist Brad Rippey

(Gibson City–jc) The Gibson City community is putting together an Economic Development Committee. Gibson City Mayor Dan Dickey started the group in November of 20-24 and now the Greater Gibson Area Economic Alliance is set to meet today in the city. Matthew Burns has been hired as a full time Executive Director. The group will be meeting with Western Illinois University’s Giselle Hamm. Hamm is the program director for Rural Affairs. The meeting is set for GIbson City Melvin Sibley High School and starts at 4-30pm today. 

WPXN News Notes…

The Elliott Amvets will hold their family dinner on Friday, September 5th from 5-7pm. Cost is $15 and includes your choice of chicken, fish or shrimp and 2 sides.

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting the Loda Sons of the American Legion on Saturday, September 6th from 10-2.

The Upper Room Bible Church in Paxton will hold a neighborhood block party on Saturday, September 6th from noon to 4pm. Activities include food, live music and games.

The Illinois & Indiana Firefighters Association’s annual 9/11 Memorial Ride will be held Sunday, September 7th. Local stops include Rossville at 11:32 a.m., Hoopeston at noon, Rankin at  12:10 p.m., Paxton at 12:21 p.m, Ludlow at 1:37 p.m., Rantoul at 1:51 p.m., Gifford at 2 p.m., Penfield at 2:05 p.m., Armstrong at 2:10 p.m. and Potomac at 2:13 p.m.For more information, people can call Dan Hudson at 217-474-5177 or Melissa Hudson at 217-663-9462.

PRIDE in Paxton will hold a 9/11 memorial event on Sunday, September 7th at 1pm at the Grand Old Flag.

Paxton’s Grace Baptist Church will host a special outdoor worship service in the pavilion at Pells Park in Paxton at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, September 7th, followed by a free cookout until 8:30 p.m.

Paxton Main Street will hold their 1st Fridays Concert Series on Friday, September 5th at Veterans Square. The Brat Pack will perform hits from the 80s.

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their Friday Night Supper on Friday, September 5th from 4:30–7 pm.

The Paxton Church of Christ will hold a 140th anniversary open house on Saturday, September 6th with bounce houses and games at 3, BBQ supper at 5, past ministers speaking at 6 and a free gospel concert at 7.

The Melvin Community Hall welcomes Dennis Stroughmatt and Band on Saturday, September 6th at 7pm. Doors open at 5:30. Cost is $10 for adults, kids 12 and under are free.

(Springfield-jm) – The Illinois Department of Labor is recognizing worker contributions and its ongoing efforts to uphold workers' rights statewide. In a September 1 press release, the group shared highlights from its 2025 Labor Day Report, which are as follows: they recovered nearly $3 million in back wage payments and got almost $5 million in fines/penalties from employers that violated labor laws, minimum wage in the state increased to $15 an hour January 1, department of Labor and the Attorney General's Office reached a child labor settlement addressing serious labor violations, resulting in a $4.5 million agreement to pay affected workers and improve compliance and mid-size and large employers became required to provide information about anticipated pay and benefits in job postings through the Pay Transparency Act. 

(Washington–jc)  – What are the eligibility requirements and sign up procedures for the U S D A Supplemental Disaster Relief Program?

Farm Production and Conservation Deputy Under Secretary Brooke Appleton has some answers…

Farm Production and Conservation Deputy Under Secretary Brooke Appleton 

(Piatt County-jm) – Part of Interstate 74 will be closed from Piatt County to Champaign County beginning Wednesday for pavement patching. Illinois Department of Transportation officials announced that the single lane closures in both directions will go from the Piatt County line to Duncan Road in Champaign County. The lane closures on I-74 are expected to last for up to two weeks. The westbound off-ramp and the eastbound on-ramp at Prairieview Road will be closed for 72 hours, and then the eastbound on-ramp at Illinois 47 will be closed for 12 hours, IDOT added. All of the closures are needed for the pavement patching work.

(Paxton–jc) – Another in the series of First Friday concerts is set for this Friday in downtown Paxton. Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper says “the Brat Pack” is coming to Veteran’s Square…

Paxton Mainstreet Executive Director Donna Pepper

(Iroquois County-jm) – The second installment of real estate taxes in Iroquois County comes due Monday, September 8.  County Treasurer Kurt Albers reminds taxpayers payments can be made at the Treasurer's Office at the Administrative Center in Watseka Monday thru Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.  Payments can also be made at any bank in the County.

(Springfield-jm) – In Illinois, Ameren delivers the energy but you pick who supplies it. Usually, customers are choosing between their municipality’s generation, called basic generation service on their bill, or an alternative supplier. Ameren charges 12 cents a kilowatt hour but a new Illinois Commerce Commission Report is showing it can be even worse with the alternatives. That report found that in Ameren territory, some suppliers were charging as much as 29 cents a kilowatt hour. The numbers show that consumers have lost more than $2 billion to alternative retail electric suppliers in the state of Illinois. If you are with a third party supplier and want to switch generation services all you have to do is contact Ameren directly and ask to switch plans.

(Springfield-jm) – A new Illinois law will create a task force to analyze how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted chronic absence of students. This group will identify strategies and approaches to help families, teachers, principals and superintendents address chronic absence for K-12 students. The state's previous attendance commission's work ended in December 2020, but lawmakers intended to bring a task force back to better understand the ongoing impact of the pandemic.

(Springfield–jc)  Crime and crime rates and accurate reporting of statistics concerning crime have become a national, state and local issue. 53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema, republican from Channahon, weighs in on the safety-act-law and how it has failed the citizens of the state of Illinois

53rd District State Senator Chris Balkema, Republican from Channahon

(Champaign-jm) – Champaign Public Library workers have announced their intent to form a union. In a letter signed by 26 library workers, they said they’re asking for living wages, increased benefits, fair hiring practices, and opportunities for advancement, among other requests. The workers plan to form a union with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 31.

(Rantoul–jc)  The Rantoul Area chamber of commerce has set Saturday September 13th as their 7th annual “Glow in the Dark” golf outing. The 9 hole event will take place at Willow Pond Golf Course. Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Susie Avalos says sign ups continue…

Rantoul Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Susie Avalos

(The Center Square) – With businesses in Illinois now suffering on multiple levels, 107th District State representative Brad Halbrook argues it’s clear the state has become its own worst enemy when it comes to charting a clearer pathway.

U.S. Census Bureau statistics show only 5.6% of business applications across the state ultimately turned into establishments open for business within the first year, equating to the third-lowest conversion rate in the Midwest and falling well below the national average of 6.1%.The data comes despite the state ranking near the top across the region for approval to operate applications submitted.

(Iroquois County–jc)  Let the next major road project begin. The Illinois Department of Transportation announced that construction is underway on Interstate 57 in Iroquois County. The work zone will be from the Buckley interchange at exit 272 to the Ford County line.  The project will patch and resurface the road, including the Main Line Station Rest Area parking lot. Also, repairs will be made to bridges carrying Iroquois County Highway 10 over I-57 and I-57 over Spring Creek and Louis Creek. Work started today in the northbound lanes and when completed, work in the southbound lanes will begin. . This 30-point 6 million project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. An alternate route is being set up from I-57 into Paxton and north to Buckley.

WPXN News notes…

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold a foodmobile, today. 

9-930 at the St. Joseph library, 10-10:30 at the old high school ballpark in Ogden, 11-11:30 at the Homer post office, 12:30-1 at the Sidney community building, 1:30-2 at the Philo village office and from 2:30-3pm at The Oaks at Tolono.

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their Friday Night Supper on Friday, September 5th from 4:30–7 pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their family dinner on Friday, September 5th from 5-7pm. Cost is $15 and includes your choice of chicken, fish or shrimp and 2 sides.

The Upper Room Bible Church in Paxton will hold a neighborhood block party on Saturday, September 6th from noon to 4pm. Activities include food, live music and games.

The Paxton Church of Christ will hold a 140th anniversary open house on Saturday, September 6th with bounce houses and games at 3, BBQ supper at 5, past ministers speaking at 6 and a free gospel concert at 7.

The Melvin Community Hall welcomes Dennis Stroughmatt and Band on Saturday, September 6th at 7pm. Doors open at 5:30. Cost is $10 for adults, kids 12 and under are free.

(Chicago-jm) – Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Sunday said that the Trump administration will soon expand immigration operations in Chicago, confirming plans for a stepped up presence of federal agents in the nation's third-largest city as President Donald Trump continues to lash out at Illinois' Democratic leadership. Noem's comments come after the DHS last week requested limited logistical support from officials at the Naval Station Great Lakes to support the agency's anticipated operations. The military installation is about 35 miles north of Chicago. Trump lashed out against Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker in a social media posting Saturday, warning him that he must straighten out Chicago's crime problems quickly “or we're coming.” The Republican president has also been critical of Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. Johnson and Pritzker have pushed back against the expected federal mobilization, saying crime has fallen in Chicago. They are planning to sue if Trump moves forward with the plan.

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois serves as a crucial access point for abortion services and sees the most out-of-state patients in the country. Public News Service’s Judith Ruiz-Branch reports…

(Springfield-jm) – Illinois is set to continue the work of a task force addressing the affordable housing crisis thanks to a new state law. Democrats and Republicans believe the state should ensure access to housing loans, grants and other assistance for buyers and owners located in community land trusts. Sponsors said community land trusts can be a powerful solution for homeowners facing delinquent property taxes or other financial threats to continued homeownership. The task force could consider incorporating community land trusts into the local tax sale process and increasing the number of state grants available for organizational housing development. 

(The Center Square) – Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker says Democrats would be “disarming” if they agreed to fair maps state by state. Pritzker was asked Wednesday about the Fair Maps Illinois initiative to establish a redistricting commission. Fair Maps Illinois is a nonpartisan effort led by two of former President Barack Obama’s Cabinet members. The bipartisan coalition is pushing for a 2026 ballot referendum on a constitutional amendment to establish a redistricting commission. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for South Suburban College’s Allied Health & Nursing Center in South Holland, Pritzker was asked if he would oppose Fair Maps at the state level

Illinois Governor J B Pritzker.

(Champaign-jm) – The Champaign and Urbana fire departments put out a fire in an office building after they said a battery caught fire Saturday. It happened just after 12 p.m. in the 1800 block of South Oak Street. Firefighters responded to reports of a fire in the two-story office building. When crews arrived, they found a small fire contained to a charging battery.  The Champaign fire department said the fire was put out quickly. Investigators determined that it was accidental, and there were no injuries reported.

(Illinois–dm)-The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced that where possible, construction zones will open up for the Labor Day Weekend.  WPXN’s Brayden Perzee has more information.

(Livingston County-jm) – The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office reports two people were injured Thursday night in a crash involving a UTV vehicle.  The crash happened south of Chatsworth on County Road 500 North. A sheriff department spokesman said the UTV apparently ran off the pathway and into a waterway on private property. Two people riding the UTV were hurt.  A 71-year-old man was life-flighted from the scene. A 72-year-old woman was treated locally.

(Rantoul-jm) – A local Central Illinois ice cream shop announced that it plans to close up one of its locations after Labor Day. On Sunday, The Main Scoop Ice Cream said it will close the doors to its Rantoul location for one final time today. The business cited a lack of community support for the closing. The Rantoul location opened for business in June, 2024. All of the other Main Scoop locations will remain open.

(Chicago-jm) – The mayor of Chicago pushed back Saturday against what he called the “out-of-control” Trump administration's plan to surge federal officers into the nation’s third-largest city, which could take place within days. The Chicago Police Department will be barred from helping federal authorities with civil immigration enforcement or any related patrols, traffic stops and checkpoints during the surge, according to an executive order signed by Mayor Brandon Johnson. The mayor directed all city departments to guard the constitutional rights of Chicago residents “amidst the possibility of imminent militarized immigration or National Guard deployment by the federal government.” Johnson also blocked Chicago police from wearing face coverings to hide their identities, as most federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers have adopted since the Trump administration took charge this year. The federal surge into Chicago could start as early as September 5 and last about 30 days, according to two U.S. officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss plans that had not been made public.

(Springfield-bp) - September is National Sucide Prevention Month, Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs is Launching two New PSAS to raise awareness… WPXN”s Brayden Perzee has the story…

(Springfield-jm) —- A new Illinois law could reduce discrimination in the life insurance industry.  The law will ban insurance companies from limiting or denying life insurance coverage based on a criminal record. Sponsors said families should not be put in debt because of a crime their loved one committed a lifetime ago. They also argue life insurance companies should provide coverage regardless of the crime someone committed.

(USDA–dm)-The Agriculture Secretary Thursday announced a new plan designed to boost veterinarian numbers in rural America. Rod Bain has the report.

(Champaign-jm) – Two people were hurt after a crash on the northside of Champaign. It happened just before 4 p.m. Friday on Market Street near Olympian Drive. Champaign County Sheriff's Office said, an 18 year old woman from Downers Grove was driving south on Market when tried to pass another vehicle. That is when she hit a Dodge Caravan driven by a 64 year old Newman woman. Both drivers were taken to the hospital and are expected to recover. The accident remains under investigation.

(Ford County–dm)-The Ford County Public Health Department is reminding all residents and property owners of the county’s Nuisance Ordinance. A nuisance could be, but not limited to garbage, junk vehicles, allowing weeds or undergrowth to grow to a height of two feet or more and maintaining dangerous or dilapidated buildings. Ford County Public Health Department Administrator Glenn Miller has more information.

Ford County Public Health Department Administrator Glenn Miller.

(St. Joseph-jm) – A 72-year-old woman was hurt in a vehicle vs. bicycle collision in St. Joseph. The man accused of causing that crash is now facing a DUI charge. 

The crash happened at the intersection of East Grand Street at Sherwood Drive. A vehicle, driven by Stanley Duitsman, 61, from Ogden, was turning from a stop sign when it struck the bicyclist, a 72-year-old female from St. Joseph. The female bicyclist was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries, including a possible broken ankle.

WPXN News notes…

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank will hold a foodmobile on Tuesday, September 2nd from 9-930 at the St. Joseph library, 10-10:30 at the old high school ballpark in Ogden, 11-11:30 at the Homer post office, 12:30-1 at the Sidney community building, 1:30-2 at the Philo village office and from 2:30-3pm at The Oaks at Tolono.

Paxton Main Street will hold their 1st Fridays Concert Series on Friday, September 5th at Veterans Square. The Brat Pack will perform hits from the 80s.

The Rankin Lions Club will hold their Friday Night Supper on Friday, September 5th from 4:30–7 pm.

The Elliott Amvets will hold their family dinner on Friday, September 5th from 5-7pm. Cost is $15 and includes your choice of chicken, fish or shrimp and 2 sides.

Kirby Foods in Paxton will hold a cookout benefiting the Loda Sons of the American Legion on Saturday, September 6th from 10-2.

The Upper Room Bible Church in Paxton will hold a neighborhood block party on Saturday, September 6th from noon to 4pm. Activities include food, live music and games.