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Beshear allotting multiple grants to help increase Kentucky tourism
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - Governor Andy Beshear gave away over $2 million in grants today, all meant to assist in recreational and infrastructure changes in Logan and Todd counties.
“Today we were here with several million dollars for Logan County and Todd County to ultimately improve life for these families,” Beshear said.
The grants will help with infrastructure and recreational changes as well as economic growth.
“These are exciting awards. They’ll create jobs in and of themselves, but also make these communities even more attractive for all these businesses that are looking.”
Likewise, Beshear said he was hopeful these grants will contribute to the economic growth of the Commonwealth overall.
“We are seeing economic development, the likes of which the Commonwealth has never seen. So investing in making sure that we are ready for the making sure that families are ready to move in is incredibly important.”
Among the various grants was money for improvements to West Main street in Elkton. The funds will be used to repair deteriorated sidewalks and enlarge storm sewers to help prevent flooding. Something Beshear emphasized with the upcoming storms in Kentucky.
“We find that in these weather events if people have that advance notice they can do a whole lot to protect themselves. One of our projects here will help us in ultimately being more resilient, which we have to be going forward.”
With that and the December tornadoes in mind, Beshear offered advice for handling the severe weather.
“Make sure you know where to go,” Beshear said. “You know what the forecast is when you go out, have that weather radio and when people say it’s going to be severe, make sure you’re in a safe place.”
Overall, Beshear wanted to exemplify how special these small towns in Kentucky are.
“They have been an integral part of the Commonwealth from Logan Aluminum and Novelis and so many other great businesses to our incredible farmers, dairy here as well as our other crops. I care and we care about this community and today we’ve invested several million in dollars in it.”
Some of the projects the grant money will go toward are Earl Davis Drive Resurfacing, East Logan Water District Improvement, and The Todd County Senior Center Rehabilitation Project. | 2022-07-27T03:51:20Z | www.wbko.com | Governor Beshear announces over $2 million in grants for Logan and Todd Counties | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/27/governor-beshear-announces-over-2-million-grants-logan-todd-counties/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/27/governor-beshear-announces-over-2-million-grants-logan-todd-counties/ |
FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) - The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission has awarded a license for a new facility with plans to offer quarter horse racing.
State officials said Tuesday that Revolutionary Racing will build in Ashland, Kentucky.
They say the project will feature an American quarter horse “sprint racing” track and a historical horse racing facility.
Historical racing machines allow people to bet on randomly generated, past horse races.
The games typically show video of condensed horse races.
State officials say Revolutionary Racing obtained the last available racing license in Kentucky.
Gov. Andy Beshear says the project will invest $55 million and create 200 jobs. | 2022-07-27T12:56:28Z | www.wbko.com | Kentucky awards license for quarter horse track | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/27/kentucky-awards-license-quarter-horse-track/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/27/kentucky-awards-license-quarter-horse-track/ |
MUHLENBERG CO., Ky. (WBKO) - Kentucky State Police Post 2 was called to investigate an accident on KY-181 South accident Tuesday, July 26, 2022, around 6:50 pm.
The preliminary investigation shows a 2011 Chevy Malibu was traveling Southbound on KY-181 when it exited the right shoulder of the roadway then the vehicle struck an earth embankment and began to overturn, according to police.
Officials say an 11-year-old passenger of Central City, who was not wearing a seat belt, sustained fatal injuries.
He was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Muhlenberg County Coroner.
The driver, 56-year-old Rebecca Evans of Greenville, KY was transported via ambulance to Muhlenberg Community Hospital for her injuries. | 2022-07-27T15:58:41Z | www.wbko.com | Single vehicle accident in Muhlenberg Co. claims the life of a child | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/27/single-vehicle-accident-muhlenberg-co-claims-life-child/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/27/single-vehicle-accident-muhlenberg-co-claims-life-child/ |
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - Lost River Cave says they have been dealing with an increase of suds in the water at the cave since last Wednesday.
[Story continues after video]
According to CEO of Lost River Cave, Rho Lansden, this type of incident has happened intermittently for years.
Video sent to WBKO News shows the cave entrance filled with suds as of 10 p.m. last night. This is where the river flows into the cave.
Rho says this is now an envirnomental issue as it’s likely that nothing that lives in the cave survived.
Tours are currently canceled.
This is a developing story, and WBKO News is working to get more details. | 2022-07-28T15:55:37Z | www.wbko.com | Lost River Cave expresses concern after soapy suds increase | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/28/lost-river-cave-expresses-concern-after-soapy-suds-increase/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/28/lost-river-cave-expresses-concern-after-soapy-suds-increase/ |
Individual tickets to Legally Blonde, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and Beauty & The Beast go on sale August 1.
(Source: SKyPAC)(WBKO)
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (News Release) - Arts of Southern Kentucky announced that several performances have been added to the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center’s (SKyPAC) 2022-23 season.
Highlights include an appearance by hip-hop duo Black Violin, vocal groups The Texas Tenors and Veritas Christmas, tributes to the Allman Brothers and Stevie Wonder, the return of acclaimed British actor David Payne in Churchill, and family-friendly events such as Puppy Pals Live.
Tickets to all events go on sale Monday, August 1st, and will be available online at www.theskypac.com, by calling (270) 904-1880, or in person at 601 College Avenue in downtown Bowling Green.
“We want everyone in the community to feel welcome at SKyPAC, and our programming reflects that desire,” Arts of Southern Kentucky CEO and Orchestra Kentucky Founding Music Director Jeff Reed said, “From a unique mash-up of classical and hip-hop in Black Violin to excellent touring Broadway productions, to family-friendly fare like Puppy Pals Live, I think we have something for everyone.”
END OF THE LINE – AN ALLMAN BROTHERS TRIBUTE
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the legendary album “Eat a Peach.”
Sponsored by: Houchens Industries
CHURCHILL – DAVID PAYNE RETURNS
Acclaimed British actor David Payne – who brought you an evening with C.S. Lewis last year – returns with a touching homage to Winston Churchill. Payne recalls Churchill’s address to the American Oxford Society after being awarded honorary US citizenship by President John F. Kennedy.
TEXAS TENORS – DEEP IN THE HEART OF CHRISTMAS
“America’s Got Talent” sensations, the Texas Tenors, return to Bowling Green for an evening of inspirational standards and holiday favorites. The Emmy award-winning and Billboard chart-topping trio are sure to get you in the spirit.
VERITAS CHRISTMAS
Experience Veritas, a powerhouse acapella male quintet. From Broadway to sacred, pop to classical, and opera to rock and roll, you will thrill to their unique “wall of sound.”
BLACK VIOLIN
The dynamic duo of Wil Baptiste and Kev Marcus combine their Classical music training and love of hip-hop in a high-energy show that will electrify SKyPAC. From Bach to Beyonce, Black Violin shows anything is possible.
Sponsored by: Kentucky Tourism Arts and Heritage Cabinet
Co-Sponsors: Drs. Harold & Cassandra Little, D.C. Clement State Farm Insurance, Abraham & Mildred Williams, The George Fant Foundation, OMNI Meats, English, Lucas, Priest & Owsley, LLP
MEN ARE FROM MARS - WOMEN ARE FROM VENUS LIVE!
The Off-Broadway hit comedy, based on John Gray’s best-selling book, is a one-man fusion of theatre and stand-up. This show is for adults but will have couples elbowing each other all evening as they see themselves on stage and leave laughing like little kids.
A TRIBUTE TO STEVIE WONDER
Billy DuVall, Jr. and The Rewinders pay tribute to the great Stevie Wonder.
PUPPY PALS LIVE
Families will have a howling good time at this action-packed show featuring adopted and rescued dogs performing spectacular stunts and breathtaking feats.
ABOUT ARTS OF SOUTHERN KENTUCKY
In 2020, with the assistance of the Warren County Fiscal Court and Judge Michael O. Buchanon, Orchestra Kentucky assumed management of the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center (SKyPAC). The new organization, which also includes BGOnstage and the Ramsey Theatre Company, is titled Arts of Southern Kentucky, and is led administratively and artistically by Jeffrey Reed.
The Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center is a premier performing arts venue located in downtown Bowling Green, KY. The facility includes the Rita and Jim Scott Concert Hall, a 1,700-seat state-of-the-art auditorium; the Renshaw Education Center which houses the Carol Wedge Studio Theater - a flexible 2,600 sq. ft. space for intimate productions and gatherings; several multi-functional rehearsal halls/classrooms; a children’s art gallery and a main gallery. | 2022-07-28T19:15:51Z | www.wbko.com | Arts of Southern Kentucky announces slate of performances to go on sale Monday | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/28/arts-southern-kentucky-announces-slate-performances-go-sale-monday/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/28/arts-southern-kentucky-announces-slate-performances-go-sale-monday/ |
Company bringing 140 jobs to Bowling Green(Governor Andy Beshear's Office)
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - A new glass bottle manufacturing facility announced today that it would invest $239 million toward a new manufacturing facility in Bowling Green.
The investment from O-I Glass Inc. will create 140 high-wage jobs, paying an average hourly wage of $43, including benefits across the jobs.
The new location will allow the company to increase the production capacity of glass bottles for various consumer beverages, focusing on the premium spirits market.
According to Governor Andy Beshear’s office, it’s the first of its kind to use a new technology: Modular Advanced Glass Manufacturing Asset (MAGMA).
The operation will include renewable electricity, gas-oxy fuel, and other innovative technology processes. Production is expected to begin in mid-2024.
“The new plant is an important milestone as we continue the pursuit of our expansion plan in the United States and globally,” said Andres Lopez, CEO of O-I Glass. “Glass is more relevant than ever, and we’re proud to support our customers with innovative solutions.”
Local Leaders React
“For a company with a national and international footprint, Warren County offers tremendous advantages. Our workforce is diverse, with over 85 languages spoken here. When combined with our central location and superior transportation accessibility, our community continues to succeed as a top choice for companies like O-I Glass.”
Mike Bucahanon - Warren County Judge/Executive
“O-I has a reputation for excellence that has led to jobs for over 24,000 employees in 19 different countries. We are thrilled that they have chosen to grow and invest in Bowling Green.”
Todd Alcott, Bowling Green Mayor
“O-I Glass is a world leader in its field and will bring transformational technology to the sector through their Bowling Green operation. We deeply value their selection of our community for this amazing project and share our great appreciation to our many partners who make winning projects like this possible: Atmos Energy, TVA, Warren County Water District, Warren RECC, as well as our Presidents Club investors.”
Ron Bunch - president and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
“We are excited to welcome O-I Glass as a new Warren RECC member. We look forward to working with them as they grow their world-class business right here in Warren County.”
Dewayne McDonald - president and CEO of Warren RECC
“TVA and Warren RECC congratulate O-I Glass on its decision to establish operations and create new job opportunities in Bowling Green. TVA is proud to partner with the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development to support new job creation and investment in the region and look forward to O-I Glass’ business success in the commonwealth.”
John Bradley - senior vice president of economic development with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
Continued Growth for Kentucky
In 2021, the commonwealth shattered every economic development record in the books.
In the past year, the Beshear administration announced the two largest economic development projects in state history.
In September 2021, Gov. Beshear and leaders from Ford Motor Co. and SK Innovation celebrated a transformative $5.8 billion investment that will create 5,000 jobs in Hardin County.
And in April of this year, the Governor was joined by leadership at Envision AESC to announce a $2 billion investment that will create 2,000 jobs in Warren County.
The governor said in a news release that these announcements solidify Kentucky as the EV battery production capital of the United States. | 2022-07-28T19:15:52Z | www.wbko.com | Company to bring 140 new jobs to Bowling Green | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/28/company-bring-140-new-jobs-bowling-green/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/28/company-bring-140-new-jobs-bowling-green/ |
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - Hilltopper Creamery, the site of WKU’s cheese-making plant, welcomed dairy farmers from around the state recently.
“It’s all, to me, just common sense things, but yet it’s great to see how others do it.”
All eyes are on the Hilltopper Creamery technicians as they make cheese during the 2022 Dairy Conference.
“There’s an art and a science to it.”
Terry Rowlett owns a creamery in Campbellsburg Kentucky. He’s one of more than thirty dairy farmers to attend the two-day workshop.
“Each cheese maker has a little variance of how they do the cheese making.”
Known as the cheese guru of Kentucky, Ricky Gulley is Vice President of DPAK, Dairy Products Association of Kentucky. He organized the conference.
“I went around and said have you learned anything or do you need to learn anything today and every one of them said yes I’ve learned a lot.”
Having been in the dairy business since the ‘70′s, Gulley knows firsthand how much the industry has suffered.
“It’s hard to make it as a dairy farmer, I know. But with the modern technology we got, I think we can all build back and build back better.”
And the Hilltopper Creamery provided the perfect backdrop for continuing education on pasteurization, regulations, and other best practices.
“I’m grateful to be here at Western, this is a nice little facility.”
“We’ve had a good learning experience.”
Hilltopper Creamery provides hands-on learning for WKU students.
To find out what products are for sale go to www.wku.edu/hilltoppercreamery. | 2022-07-28T22:19:58Z | www.wbko.com | View From The Hill: WKU’s Hilltopper Creamery serves as backdrop for 2022 Dairy Conference | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/28/view-hill-wkus-hilltopper-creamery-serves-backdrop-2022-dairy-conference/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/28/view-hill-wkus-hilltopper-creamery-serves-backdrop-2022-dairy-conference/ |
Barren-Metcalfe EMTs deliver nine pound baby in back of ambulance
EMTs deliver baby in Glasgow.(Brandi Tabor)
GLASGOW, Ky. (WBKO) - Three EMTs and a student with Barren-Metcalfe EMS are sharing their story after bringing new life into the world in an unexpected way.
When a call came in Monday afternoon, need life or death,” said Chad Hatcher, Advanced EMT with Barren-Metcalfe EMS.
And so when a call came in Monday afternoon, FTO Paramedic Brandi Tabor, Advanced EMT Hatcher, Supervisor Sammy Stotts and EMT Student Gabe Wheeler all jumped into action.
“We get toned out for abdominal pain-- female with abdominal pain,” said Tabor.
When the four arrived, they quickly realized the woman was in labor.
“Whenever she stood up, I realized that her water was broken. And that delivery is upon us rather quickly,” said Hatcher. “Brandi quickly assessed and saw the baby’s head. It got real at that point. So we knew what we needed to do. We relied on our training and delivered a full-term healthy baby boy.”
That healthy boy, weighing 9 pounds 2 ounces.
“In the back of an ambulance, you’re in such a small confined area that if it goes wrong, it can go wrong real fast. And we’re just thankful that it went as smooth as can be,” expressed Hatcher.
For 7-year veteran paramedic Tabor, she always wondered whether or not she’d get to deliver a baby.
“We see a lot of death, destruction and disaster. We’re there when a lot of people pass away, we’re never there when people are actually born. So it’s kind of a surreal experience getting to actually be there and be the one delivering it and you know, helping mom through it,” she said.
Eighteen-year-old Gabe Wheeler, a student training to become an EMT was only five weeks on the job when they were on the call.
“It was scary at first because it was happening so fast, but it was something special. It’s definitely something I’ll never forget,” said Wheeler.
Because it doesn’t happen often, these EMTs and paramedics are frequently refreshed on training for baby deliveries.
“In EMS, there is no textbook there is not one run that is the exact thing. So you have to rely on your training and your previous knowledge to be able to adapt to each situation when it arrives,” said Hatcher.
While every day isn’t always bright, Monday’s new bundle of joy sure reminds this group of healthcare heroes why they wake up and go to work each day.
“It kind of makes this job worth it. You know, all the stuff that we deal with what we go through and stuff, it makes it worth it in the end.
WBKO News is told that the baby and mom are doing well, and that baby is set to be released from the hospital today to return home.
All four individuals received personalized blue baby booties to commemorate the special delivery. This is Hatcher’s second set of booties in his 12 years on the job, and everyone else’s first.
Congratulations to FTO Brandi Tabor, Advanced EMT Chad Hatcher, Supervisor Sammy Stotts, and EMT Student Gabe Wheeler...
Posted by Barren-Metcalfe EMS on Monday, July 25, 2022
MidDay Live celebrates National Chicken Wing Day | 2022-07-29T21:04:04Z | www.wbko.com | Barren-Metcalfe EMTs deliver nine pound baby in back of ambulance | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/29/barren-metcalfe-emts-deliver-nine-pound-baby-back-ambulance/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/29/barren-metcalfe-emts-deliver-nine-pound-baby-back-ambulance/ |
WKU opens fall camp with ‘stiff’ competition on offense
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - Nothing is guaranteed for WKU football’s offense entering 2022.
“Not a lot of positions [on offense] don’t have competition. That’s good,” WKU football head coach Tyson Helton said during WKU media day.
This season won’t be a complete revamp for the Tops’ offense. They bring back marquee stars from last season, but they’ve also lost considerable talent, most notably quarterback the quarterback-wide receiver duo of Bailey Zappe and Jerreth Sterns, respectively.
Quarterback is the position with the most microscopic attention on offense. West Virginia graduate transfer Jarret Doege has been hinted as the frontrunner by Coach Helton. However, Doege still has to battle Division II national championship-winning West Florida transfer Austin Reed.
“I like where we are at QB. We’ll figure it out by week one,” Helton said.
Doege, a Lubbock, Texas native, is in his fifth-quarterback battle at his third school. That’s why he says he has “no doubt” he will be named the starter.
“Any QB battle is about earning the respect of your teammates and coaches. In my head, I walk on the field thinking that I’m the starter,” Doege said. “Our strength coach hasn’t seen this much competition in a while.”
The strength of the competition has trickled down to the wide receiver position. Seven to eight different wideouts are battling for four different starting roles, especially Sterns’ main slot position.
WKU brings back a mix of returning cast members and new faces. Sophomore Malachi Corley and redshirt junior Dalvin Smith are the biggest headliners returning to wide receiver for WKU.
“We have speed, size and people who can jump,” Corley said.
Helton and co-offfensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle have both indicated most offensive line positions are “secured” - with some notable exception. But even special teams spots are up for grabs according to Helton, as preseason honoree-kicker Brayden Narveson and Cory Munson will duel for the starting kicker spot this season.
“The pressure is, scoring enough points to win. It’s up to them to determine who’s going to be out there.,” Arbuckle said.
As soon as the clock strikes zero on Week Zero against Austin Peay on August 27 in the Tops’ season opener at home, Corley says that that’s when the 2022 season becomes more than just an “encore.”
“This season will be really special. We’ll have a high-powered offense that will do the same things again.” | 2022-07-30T04:24:48Z | www.wbko.com | WKU opens fall camp with ‘stiff’ competition on offense | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/30/wku-opens-fall-camp-with-stiff-competition-offense/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/30/wku-opens-fall-camp-with-stiff-competition-offense/ |
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - Most of us will remain overcast through the remainder of our afternoon and evening. However, some showers have sparked up to the northwestern portions of our viewing area!
better chances for rain come Sunday!(WBKO)
Though chances for rain continue to remain slim for the rest of the day, any showers that do occur will be short-lived and not a complete washout. Sunday morning will bring better chances for widespread showers and thunderstorms. We’ll catch a break from the rain by late morning, but another round arrives early afternoon. Though it will not be a complete washout, have the umbrella handy just in case for any Sunday plans! Widespread rain continues into Monday. Tuesday will feature isolated showers here and there, but we’ll be dry for most of the day and much warmer as well - highs jump back to the 90s by then! The rest of the week remains hot and humid, with stray showers possible into the second half of the work week! | 2022-07-30T21:18:53Z | www.wbko.com | Stray showers tonight, but better chances for rain come Sunday! | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/30/stray-showers-tonight-better-chances-rain-come-sunday/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/30/stray-showers-tonight-better-chances-rain-come-sunday/ |
Christmas in July supporting Toys for Tots(Ana Medina)
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - On Saturday, Roebuck Square was full of food trucks and community members, all supporting Toys for Tots, for the annual Christmas in July event.
Different food trucks, such as: Cotton BBQ, Big Al’s Hot Damn Chicken, Totally Baked, BG Dawgz, Traveler’s Wine Cellar, Mayes Bakes, Proud Mary’s Kitchen, Kentacos, A Taste of Europe and Pelican’s Snoballs all gathered around Roebuck Square to offer the community options to give back all while supporting local businesses.
The event marked the 6th Annual Christmas in July for Toys for Tots.
Janel Doyle, with Toys for Tots spoke on looking ahead to the holiday season.
“We’re a little bit nervous this year going into the Christmas season because we think more families will have a need with everything being more expensive. So we will have our toy boxes out without within the community. In October, at the end of October. So you can always donate a toy and the toy boxes, any Bowling Green Fire Department accepts toys all year long,” adds Doyle.
For more information on Toys for Tots, click here. | 2022-07-30T21:32:19Z | www.wbko.com | Food trucks come together supporting Toys for Tots | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/30/food-trucks-come-together-supporting-toys-tots/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/07/30/food-trucks-come-together-supporting-toys-tots/ |
A seasonably hot, very humid week ahead!
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - Welcome to August! We’re still very much in the “Dog Days of Summer”, and the weather will resemble that throughout the week.
Heat indices 100-105 Tuesday and Wednesday
Storms are possible tonight ahead of a cold front. Locally damaging wind would be the main severe threat, in addition to heavy rain and lightning. The best chance for the strongest storms is north of Bowling Green after sunset.
The rest of the week remains hot and humid, with scattered showers possible into the second half of the work week! Temps will be seasonably hot, topping out around 90°, give or take a degree. Overnight lows will stay warm and muggy in the low 70s.
Today’s Precip: T | 2022-08-01T23:19:31Z | www.wbko.com | Storms Possible Late Tonight | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/01/storms-possible-late-tonight/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/01/storms-possible-late-tonight/ |
Lisa Rice of WCPS discusses dealing with back to school anxiety
By Kelly Austin
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - With the swipe of a debit card and the ring of a cash register, back-to-school shopping is getting checked off many parents’ to-do lists.
Along with kids being excited about wearing their brand new shoes and clothes and seeing their friends again, there are some kids that may be feeling a little anxious.
The thought of going back to school for some kids can be overwhelming for a number of reasons.
Lisa Rice a Mental Health Counselor with Warren County Public Schools talked with Kelly Austin Monday about helping our kids get back to school with less anxiety.
She advises, “As a parent, take your own temperature. Make sure you aren’t passing your anxiety on to your kids. You want to pass on confidence. Listen to their feelings. Validate their feelings. ‘I know it’s hard.’ Don’t dismiss their feelings, but help them remember they probably felt this way last year and the year before. What helped them overcome their anxiety before?”
Other suggestions include:
Normalize their feelings
Do some practice runs
Go to your school’s open house, if you can’t do that go by the school to ask questions, find out who their teacher is, etc.
Talk to someone at your school about it. Speak to your student’s teacher or counselor to let them know your concerns so they can be aware and help develop a plan to address them. | 2022-08-02T00:18:50Z | www.wbko.com | WCPS Mental Health Counselor: Helping your kids through back-to-school anxiety | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/01/wcps-mental-health-counselor-helping-your-kids-through-back-to-school-anxiety/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/01/wcps-mental-health-counselor-helping-your-kids-through-back-to-school-anxiety/ |
Donations being sent to Eastern Kentucky(Lauren Floyd)
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - With aid and recovery efforts in high demand for Eastern Kentucky, many are searching for places to donate locally.
Former WKU basketball player Justin Johnson is collecting items behind Crossland Community Church. For items they are looking for, he says, ”Baby items, which is diapers, formula, wipes. Anything that a baby can use. Canned foods that have a snap lid on them because they don’t have can openers. They want anything easy access for food items. Toiletry items. Clorox for cleaning and cleaning items.”
So far, the following locations are accepting donations (by county).
Warren:
Behind Crossland Community Church on Fairview, Tuesday, August 2nd from 8 to 10 a.m. and 4 to 8 p.m.
Warren County Public schools (gift cards)
OneSong Church through Friday, August 5th at noon.
VFW on Highway 185 through August, 12th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Hillvue Heights Church
Barren:
Cave City Fire Department through Friday, August 5th at 4 p.m.
Barren County Family YMCA
South Green Street church of Christ
Lucky Duck Discount
Edmonson:
A Plus Family Healthcare
Metcalfe:
Grace Union Baptist Church
North Metcalfe Volunteer Fire and Rescue
City Hall through Thursday, August 4th. | 2022-08-02T01:54:07Z | www.wbko.com | Where to donate locally towards Eastern Kentucky relief efforts | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/02/where-donate-locally-towards-eastern-kentucky-relief-efforts/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/02/where-donate-locally-towards-eastern-kentucky-relief-efforts/ |
KY Law Enforcement Golf Scramble Tournament
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - The Kentucky Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation (FLEMF) is hosting a golf scramble tournament Aug. 22.
The tournament will be at the Crosswinds Golf Course on 1031 Wilkinson Trace.
The mission of KLEMF is to support Kentucky law enforcement families through emergency assistance funds, educational scholarships for dependents and the hosting of an annual Memorial service to honor loved ones that have been lost.
KLEMF has been a big supporter of the Bowling Green Police Department and is hosting the tournament to raise funds and support BGPD in their endeavors.
The golf scramble will include breakfast, snacks, beverages, a catered lunch, door prizes, gift bags, awards and other fun surprises for participants and volunteers.
Donations can be physical items or a monetary donation toward the purchase of items.
For more information, you can call 270-792-9077 or visit KLEMF’s website. | 2022-08-02T12:43:52Z | www.wbko.com | VIDEO: Local Golf Scramble Tournament to support law enforcement | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/02/local-golf-scramble-tournament-is-being-hosted-support-law-enforcement/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/02/local-golf-scramble-tournament-is-being-hosted-support-law-enforcement/ |
Animal Control officer Janes and Officer Nichols walking streets in Knott County to check on residents(Lauren McCally)
GLASGOW, Ky. (WBKO) - As recovery and aid efforts continue in Eastern Kentucky, many communities outside of the devastated areas are sending what they can in supplies and volunteers to help those in need.
“Pretty much all the town is completely flooded, besides Main Street,” Recruit Officer Jacob Kersey, with the Glasgow Police Department “Of course, everybody lives, on little backroads over in Eastern Kentucky, and all their houses are washed-up vehicles everywhere”.
On Sunday, several officers from the Glasgow Police Department took a trip to two different parts of Eastern Kentucky to assist. The officers also took several supplies with them, including baby wipes, paper towels, diapers, and water.
All of which were donated to them by the ECTC Nursing Program.
Recruit Officer Kersey, Animal Control Officer Janes, and Recruit Officer Nichols went to Knott County to assist with policing and recovery efforts there.
On Tuesday, we spoke with Recruit Officer Kersey, who said they went so they could help other Kentuckians.
“Two of us lived in Hart County and we faced tornadoes A while back, and we knew what it was like to have the help from surrounding communities, and we wanted to do the same,” Kersey said.
Kersey also added that he and the others will be in Knott County as long as they are needed.
“We enjoy helping the community and doing what we can”, he said.
According to GPDs Facebook Page, Lt. McGuire, Officer Hardin, Lt. Barton, and Lt. Fields went to Whitesburg Kentucky to assist with policing efforts. | 2022-08-02T18:48:13Z | www.wbko.com | Members of Glasgow PD hand out supplies, help with policing in Eastern Kentucky | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/02/members-glasgow-pd-hand-out-supplies-help-with-policing-eastern-kentucky/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/02/members-glasgow-pd-hand-out-supplies-help-with-policing-eastern-kentucky/ |
Bowling Green Humane Society hopes to clear shelters by getting dogs adopted
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - August is “Clear the Shelter” month, an event presented by Hill’s pet food.
The goal? Just that, to have all pets adopted and completely clear the shelter.
On top of participating in the event, the Bowling Green Warren County Humane Society is giving away coupons and discounts for pet supplies with each adoption.
“Clear the Shelter really helped to kind of emphasize some of the pets that may have been overlooked through some of the other events that we’ve been doing,’ said Leah Lawrence, Adoption Manager with the society. “This is just a time when everybody can focus on every single individual animal, ones that may have been here for a little while to the ones that just walked in the door.”
For more information on the event, or to see what animals are available for adoption, visit the Bowling Green Warren County Humane Society website. | 2022-08-03T00:51:37Z | www.wbko.com | Bowling Green Warren County Humane Society works to “Clear the Shelter” | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/02/bowling-green-warren-county-humane-society-works-clear-shelter/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/02/bowling-green-warren-county-humane-society-works-clear-shelter/ |
Starting the Countdown to Highschool Football with the Allen County Patriots
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - Last year’s 4A football district title wasn’t enough for Allen County-Scottsville last season.
“Man, we really wanna win a state title this season,” senior quarterback Payton Cope said with excitement.
The Patriots went 8-5 last season after a paltry 1-3 start last year en route to the district crown. But, falling one loss short of the state semifinals has lit a fire underneath the team.
“We’re going to take last year’s loss against Franklin County and we’re going to build that up. We’re gonna build that urge, build that fight in our team. We’re gonna work on the fundamentals and get back to the basic stuff,” Cope said.
Brad Hood’s team returns six starters on each side of the ball, including Cope at quarterback. He returns over 400 rushing yards from last season. His fellow senior, Jake Jackson, brings back nearly 500 rushing yards as well for a double-gut punch.
Hood says that his players are molding into shape, despite an uphill climb entering 2022.
“We have a really tough season schedule and our district is tough. We feel like once we run through that, we’re usually a seasoned football team,” Hood said. “This group’s just been working and pushing guys and growing up into leaders that you know, last year, you worried about. Now, they’ve already taken those steps this year.”
ACS opens its season against Logan County in the J. Allen Builders Bowl at Warren East on August 19 at 7:00 p.m. | 2022-08-03T00:51:37Z | www.wbko.com | Countdown to Kickoff: Allen County-Scottsville | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/03/countdown-kickoff-allen-county-scottsville/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/03/countdown-kickoff-allen-county-scottsville/ |
Whitney Creech, former lady top, assists Eastern KY flood victims
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - A former Lady Topper superstar is helping give back to her roots.
Former WKU point guard-turned graduate assistant Whitney Creech helped organize a donation drive for Eastern Kentucky flood victims at Crossland Community Church on Tuesday afternoon. Creech was joined by current Lady Toppers, such as Alexis Mead and Gabby McBride, along with Lady Topper head coach Greg Collins and assistant coach Ivy Woodcock.
Creech and the Lady Toppers collected non-perishable items such as peanut butter, canned food, watch, bleach, and even clothes for people affected by last week’s deadly floods in Eastern Kentucky. Creech, a Jenkins native, says her family is safe, but that some of her friends “weren’t as fortunate.”
That still isn’t stopping her from giving back.
“Look back at all this stuff,” Creech said, pointing at the donations. “Everybody’s donating it. We can’t thank them enough. And it just means a lot that I have the support from our community so I can go back home and support that community as well.”
Creech and Woodcock played together at WKU from 2016 to 2018 during Woodcock’s last two seasons on The Hill. Now coaching with Creech, she says that she’s “not shocked” to see her friend and cohort giving back as much as she can.
“If anybody knows Whitney Creech, they know how big of a heart she has. I know that if the roles were reversed, Whitney Creech would be one of the first people to help me as well,” Woodcock said.
Creech says that the supplies should reach Hazard by Wednesday afternoon. The truck carrying the supplies will also stop in Whitesburg and other areas near Hazard. | 2022-08-03T00:51:45Z | www.wbko.com | Whitney Creech, Lady Tops collect donations for flood victims | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/03/whitney-creech-lady-tops-collect-donations-flood-victims/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/03/whitney-creech-lady-tops-collect-donations-flood-victims/ |
Scotty's Pound the Pavement Event to be held at Keriakes Park
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - Kentucky Kids On The Block is presenting Scotty’s Pound The Pavement an annual kids run kicking off the start of the new school year.
Pound The Pavement will feature 3 races for children including a 1K, 2K, and 3K.
Kids can be registered to race up to age 14.
The event will be held at Kerieakes Park in the heart of Bowling Green, where over 400 children each receive a finishers medal and compete for awards at the end.
Pound The Pavement is free and parents can register their kids here, or for more information parents can visit kids on the block’s website. | 2022-08-03T12:59:12Z | www.wbko.com | Scotty’s Pound the Pavement Annual Kids run Returns to Keriakes Park | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/03/scottys-pound-pavement-annual-kids-run-returns-keriakes-park/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/03/scottys-pound-pavement-annual-kids-run-returns-keriakes-park/ |
Scottsville PD and "Family Resource Youth Service Centers" of Allen County collect school supplies for the district
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - At the Dollar General Market, Family Resource Coordinators from Allen County Schools were collecting school supplies and donations with Scottsville PD.
The annual event owes its success to “tremendous community support,” says Melissa Biggerstaff, Chief Academic Officer and Family Resource Youth Service Center (FRYSC) District Contact for the state. She expressed how grateful the staff and students are with the generosity of Allen County residents.
Family Resource Youth Service Centers can be found in each school, serving students and families in need. They work directly with those families to make sure that donations and resources get to where they make the most impact.
Hannah Marsh, a FRYSC representative from Allen County Primary Center explained that all the supplies donated during the event would be divided and distributed to all the schools in the district immediately following the event. Cash donations that were received would be used to purchase additional supplies before they left the area.
Earbuds, notebooks, binders, loose leaf paper, and even hairbrushes were listed as items that students need for school. Family Resource Coordinator Rhonda Kircher stated that “by the community pitching in and getting those supplies for the students, then all children are able to excel in their education.”
If you missed the Stuff the Cruiser event, you could still donate supplies to any Allen County school by contacting the Family Resource Center or the Scottsville Police Department.
Mammoth Cave Back to School Bash | 2022-08-04T01:16:40Z | www.wbko.com | Allen County Schools and Scottsville Police take donations in annual “Stuff the Cruiser” event | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/04/allen-county-schools-scottsville-police-take-donations-annual-stuff-cruiser-event/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/04/allen-county-schools-scottsville-police-take-donations-annual-stuff-cruiser-event/ |
Med Center Health(WBKO)
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - The Medical Center at Bowling Green is now the first in Southcentral Kentucky to offer a new lung valve treatment for patients with severe COPD and emphysema.
Recently approved by the FDA under their “Breakthrough Devices” status, the Zephyr Endobronchial Valve treatment represents a major advancement because it is the first minimally-invasive procedure to help emphysema sufferers breathe easier without major surgery.
Done through a simple bronchoscopy, the valve treatment improves patients’ quality of life by allowing them to breathe easier, be less short of breath, and be more active and energetic.
“The opportunity to provide a new treatment option to patients with advanced emphysema is very exciting for us. These patients are often in poor physical condition, as shortness of breath limits their quality of life despite rehabilitation and medication therapy,” said Brian Deweese, Director of Respiratory Care for Med Center Health. “The Zephyr Valve procedure offers a viable treatment option to those who are unable to undergo traditional highly invasive lung surgeries. This minimally invasive procedure has the potential to improve the quality of life for many people in this region and beyond who suffer with severe emphysema.”
“COPD is a systemic disease and for some patients, their shortness of breath significantly impacts their quality of life,” said Dr. Karan Singh, associate director for pulmonary critical care for Western Kentucky Heart, Lung and Gastroenterology. “We have patients in this area, who are doing everything right – they have quit smoking, they are taking the right medications and doing the right things, and yet their quality of life is suffering. When you are so winded that you cannot walk from your home to outside, asking you to travel for treatment is just not feasible.”
The one-time Zephyr Valve procedure is done during a simple bronchoscopy that requires no cutting or incisions.
During the procedure, valves are placed in the airways to block off the diseased parts of the lungs where air gets trapped. Keeping air from getting trapped in the diseased parts of the lung allows the healthier parts of the lung to expand and take in more air.
This results in patients being able to breathe easier and have less shortness of breath.
KY Monkeypox FOLO
Barren River District reports first probable case of monkeypox | 2022-08-04T18:12:23Z | www.wbko.com | The Medical Center at Bowling Green to offer new treatment for COPD, Emphysema patients | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/04/medical-center-bowling-green-offer-new-treatment-copd-emphysema-patients/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/04/medical-center-bowling-green-offer-new-treatment-copd-emphysema-patients/ |
FEMA has approved Individual Assistance for Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Letcher, Owsley, Perry and Pike counties.
In Knott County, volunteers are answering the call by Kentucky Sports Radio to head to the tiny community of Emmalena to help.
Emmalena, like so many others over the past week, has been devastated by flooding, many people losing everything they own.
Volunteer Brandon Kessenger drove three houses from Louisville to help.
“I just showed up to do whatever I can do. So far, have been loading up trucks with water and MREs, cleaning supplies. Doing whatever I can with my two hands,” Kessenger said.
Some people we spoke with say they have not had any communication with the outside world in a week because they have no electricity, phone service or cell service.
People have to bring them the information they need. | 2022-08-05T17:16:32Z | www.wbko.com | TEAM COVERAGE: Beshear gives another update on EKY flooding | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/05/watch-live-beshear-give-another-update-eky-flooding/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/05/watch-live-beshear-give-another-update-eky-flooding/ |
Warren RECC and several community partners loaded up numerous trucks with supplies to help Eastern Kentucky recover from the devastating floods.(Warren RECC)
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - Warren RECC, along with several of its partners, loaded up several trucks and vehicles with supplies to help those affected by the floods in Eastern Kentucky.
The trucks rolled out around 7 a.m. Saturday.
This morning, we left BG 2 semis, a box truck, a trailer, and several vehicles loaded down with supplies for Eastern Kentucky flood relief. Thank you to all of our generous members, staff, and local businesses who donated time, talent, and treasure. Your hearts are big! pic.twitter.com/wozDyExBGX
Warren RECC said they were motivated to help our neighbors in Eastern Kentucky following the outpouring of support our area received after the devastating and deadly tornadoes in December 2021.
The company partnered with Houchens Industries, Fruit of the Loom, Ball Corporation, Champion Pet Foods, Essity, Southern Foods, and Cape Electrical Supply. United Utility Service out of Louisville also helped.
The group loaded two full semi-trucks, Warren RECC’s Storm Response Trailer, and a large box truck full of supplies. | 2022-08-06T23:52:00Z | www.wbko.com | Warren RECC sends supplies to Eastern KY | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/06/warren-recc-sends-supplies-eastern-ky/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/06/warren-recc-sends-supplies-eastern-ky/ |
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - A BGMU contractor will be replacing aged infrastructure on Hwy US 31W the week of Aug. 15.
All lanes of the Bypass will be closed from Broadway Avenue to East 13th Avenue starting Monday, August 15 at 6 a.m.
This closure will last through the afternoon of Friday, Aug. 19.
Detours will be set up in this area. | 2022-08-08T14:17:01Z | www.wbko.com | Portion of Bypass to close for infrastructure repairs | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/08/portion-bypass-close-infrastructure-repairs/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/08/portion-bypass-close-infrastructure-repairs/ |
Sammie Mitchell(Barren County Detention Center)
CAVE CITY, Ky. (WBKO) - A man was arrested Saturday after a road rage incident on Happy Valley Road.
Sammie Mitchell, 21, was charged with three counts of first-degree wanton endangerment after Cave City Police Department was dispatched to a road rage incident involving a handgun.
Officers responded to the vehicles at Ace Hardware in Cave City.
Mitchell was arrested without incident.
Mitchell was lodged in Barren County Jail and was released on Sunday. | 2022-08-08T17:21:21Z | www.wbko.com | Cave City Police arrest 1 after road rage incident | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/08/cave-city-police-arrest-1-after-road-rage-incident/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/08/cave-city-police-arrest-1-after-road-rage-incident/ |
Countdown to Kickoff: Previewing the upcoming Glasgow Scotties season
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - We continue the 2022 Countdown to Kickoff series with a look at the Glasgow Scotties led by head coach Jeff Garmon Sr.
2021 the Scotties saw one of their most successful seasons in years past. They opened the year with a 56-0 blowout loss to Woodford County and came back winning 12 straight games making it all the way to the state semifinals in Class 4A before losing to Paducah Tilghman 39-20 one game short of the state championship at Kroger Field.
Glasgow lost 15 seniors from last year’s team leaving Coach Garmon adjusting to a new roster, but every year to him this is no different than any other year.
“You just put the next bunch in there and you go on,” Garmon said. “You bring back the core pieces which we did bring back some kids that are pretty good. Now we just want to make sure that we got our guys getting them up to speed the guys that didn’t get enough experience last year trying to get them ready to go.”
The Scotties have brought back some of the main core from 2021, leading rusher Keiran Stockton and quarterback Easton Jessie are returning this season. Stockton led the team in yards and touchdowns with 1,335 yards rushing and 25 touchdowns, while Jessie will now be full-time under center after splitting reps with John Carter Myers last year.
Both players experienced the semifinal loss last November, leaving them with a bit of motivation in 2022.
“To come that close and not be able to make it hurts a little more, and I think we’ll have a little more juice this year,” Stockton said.
“The Paducah Tilghman game definitely fuels me, it kills everybody on the team I think if we can just get to region, I think we’ll make it (to the championship),” Jessie said.
Here’s a look at the Scotties’ schedule this season:
August 19th: Vs John Hardin
August 26: Vs Russellville
September 2: At Monroe County
September 9: Vs Allen County-Scottsville
September 16: At Hart County
September 23: Vs Greenwood
September 30: Vs Adair County
October 14: At Taylor County
October 21: Vs Vs Casey County
October 28: At Franklin-Simpson | 2022-08-09T01:00:40Z | www.wbko.com | Countdown to Kickoff: Glasgow Scotties | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/08/countdown-kickoff-glasgow-scotties/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/08/countdown-kickoff-glasgow-scotties/ |
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - WKU Softball had 10 members named 2021-22 Easton/National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-America Scholar-Athletes and the team was recognized for its 3.55 overall team GPA for the 2021-22 academic year.
Maddie Bowlds, Jessica Bush, Bailey Curry, Randi Drinnon, Savannah Fierke, Katie Gardner, Shelby Nunn, Maddie Poschke, Jordan Ridge and Taylor Sanders were honored as Scholar-Athletes.
As a team, the Hilltopper squad posted a 3.55 cumulative GPA for the academic year. That mark ranked in the top-50 across all Division I programs.
To be recognized, an individual must own a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 or better. | 2022-08-09T01:00:53Z | www.wbko.com | Ten Hilltoppers Named Easton/NFC All-America Scholar-Athletes | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/08/ten-hilltoppers-named-eastonnfc-all-america-scholar-athletes/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/08/ten-hilltoppers-named-eastonnfc-all-america-scholar-athletes/ |
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) - The Warren County Youth Football League is having mobile registrations across Bowling Green.
In person registrations will be held at Warren Central, Bowling Jr. High, Parker Bennet-Curry, and Bristow Elementary throughout the month.
WCYFL seeks to provide an opportunity for all the youth of Warren County to play football in a safe, structured, fun, and community-based environment.
The goal is to work to enhance opportunities for these individuals to grow, learn, mature, and succeed while learning and playing the game of football.
To see further registration dates and to get information on how to register, you can visit their website. | 2022-08-09T13:16:25Z | www.wbko.com | Warren County Youth Football League Registration Is Open | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/09/warren-county-youth-football-league-registration-is-open/ | https://www.wbko.com/2022/08/09/warren-county-youth-football-league-registration-is-open/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Gun violence may be going down in Champaign, but some community members say their fear has gone up.
It’s why the Equity and Engagement department has been hosting community violence response meetings. They hope to reach victory over violence.
A lot of people showed up on Monday night.
Not only was the group racially diverse, but it was also diverse in age and socioeconomic status which gave people across all walks of life the ability to understand how gun violence in the community has impacted them.
And what they think needs to be done to fix it.
“A young man was shot in the back,” said Michael Hill. “I really just felt like it’s right at my door.”
“They heard like a bullet wiz by them, and they actually dove on the ground,” said Joseph Wilson.
These are the stories two Champaign men shared at a community violence response meeting.
Michael Hill says a shooting happened 30 feet from his house.
Joseph Wilson says there were cars driving past his home shooting at each other.
“It’s very scary,” said Hill.
“It’s very frightening,” said Wilson.
But what’s scarier for them is doing nothing about it, which is why they attended the community meeting.
“When you involve community and people understand then people come together and I think it could be a solution people might come forward and be able to help out to find a solution,” said Hill.
Dozens of people showed up to do just that: Find a solution.
They shared ideas and talked about what they would like to see in their neighborhood. Some said more street lighting, and other wanted more police presence.
Champaign’s Chief Timothy Tyler attended and says he shares the same goals.
“Well because I care, it’s the main reason why I am here, not as a police officer but as a citizen,” said Chief Tyler.
Police statistics show shootings in Champaign have gone down 56% from Oct. 2021 to Oct. 2022, but that doesn’t mean the work is done to prevent gun violence.
“We have trauma we have counseling we have grief counseling we do wrap around services,” said Jorge Elvir.
When there is a heavy presence of gun violence in a neighborhood, the Equity and Engagement office make a point to be there for that neighborhood. They canvass the area to see how they can best support people and then bring them together to have round table discussion.
Both Wilson and Hill say they learned a lot from hearing from their neighbors.
“I’m just glad I’m here,” said Hill. “I hope I can attend other meetings like this.”
The Equity and Engagement office has a lot of resources such as counseling and youth development programs. | 2022-11-22T04:42:46Z | www.wcia.com | Community members respond to gun violence in Champaign | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/community-members-respond-to-gun-violence-in-champaign/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/community-members-respond-to-gun-violence-in-champaign/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – Some people say the heat in their apartments hasn’t worked for weeks. When the problem wasn’t fixed, the city of Champaign took the property owners to court.
Tyler Sigler got the keys to his unit about three weeks ago.
“I actually moved in and the heat wouldn’t turn off. Maintenance came out and hit the heater until it stopped working and told me it was broken,” he said.
The property owners of Champaign Park Apartments still haven’t fixed the heat.
“They haven’t been returning my calls, my emails, anything,” Sigler said.
As temperatures dropped, he and other concerned tenants began calling the city’s Neighborhood Services Department.
“My main concern was – I’m going to work, my cat’s there. But I know there are families out there – people with children, single mothers – who have limited options on relocating,” Sigler said.
It led to at least six buildings in the complex getting condemned.
“Because of the danger, because of the drop in temperatures, and the safety hazards posed by the alternative methods that they were using – we felt that the public safety as well as the residents’ safety was an issue so we sought an emergency injunction,” Assistant City Attorney Nancy Rabel said.
The first report came in last month. Rabel said people in affected units have been using space heaters and even leaving their ovens on to stay warm.
“These have absolutely no heat. The boilers aren’t working in them at all,” Rabel said.
A court order was issued that requires the property owner to provide tenants alternate housing for up to ten days.
“To our knowledge, they have not done so,” Rabel said Sunday.
To keep people warm, the city started relocating people over the weekend. They also posted flyers on doors including the phone number listed on the Champaign Park Apartments website. The problem is, if you try to call, it won’t go through.
“In fact, we’ve attempted to call that number and it was disconnected,” Rabel said.
The flyer said to contact the city if the complex doesn’t respond. Rabel said while the property has changed owners recently, the code violations go back years. Code Compliance Manager Tim Spear can’t say exactly what those violations were, but he said this one is serious.
“While it’s going to be warmer this week, it’s still at night cold enough that you really need heat. Even during the day, it’s not warm enough to not have any source of heat at all,” Spear said.
They’ll be back in court on Monday. Until then, if you don’t have heat, you can call the city and request a tenant inspection. Spear said the property owners have since distributed their own flyers with a working phone number for residents. | 2022-11-22T06:18:56Z | www.wcia.com | Tenants go weeks without heat; city & court step in | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/tenants-go-weeks-without-heat-city-court-step-in/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/tenants-go-weeks-without-heat-city-court-step-in/ |
DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — The City of Decatur is asking residents for patience as they may experience longer-than-normal wait times to pay bills and receive related customer service.
The city implemented a computer software upgrade on Nov. 14. Despite successful tests of the new system beforehand, they said they are currently experiencing certain processing issues that are complicating their ability to provide the normal level of customer experience they strive for.
They said they apologize to residents for any inconvenience and ask for patience with their customer service representatives during delays.
The city said they continue to work diligently on a solution and will keep working until issues are resolved.
In the meantime, they advise that telephone call wait times, in-person transaction times, and other customer service functions “may unfortunately take more time than normal.”
They thank the community for its understanding and patience during work to resolve the system issues. | 2022-11-23T04:54:39Z | www.wcia.com | Decatur battles bill payment issues, asks for patience | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/decatur-battles-bill-payment-issues-asks-for-patience/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/decatur-battles-bill-payment-issues-asks-for-patience/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – The countdown to Thanksgiving is upon us.
Families across the country will be gathering, but this year most are paying more for turkeys and everything else.
They’re preparing with caution because the U.S. government reports food prices are up 9.5% to 10.5%. Despite the high costs, families are still excited to celebrate.
“Yes, the turkey and the ham, the prices have increased for sure in the past few years,” Clinique Carmon said.
Richard Oliver, who works in the meat department at Harvest Market in Champaign, says the key to success this year was buying early.
“Buying things prior when the markets are down, you just really got stay tuned to what the markets are,” Oliver said.
He says they’ve seen a lot of special orders and requests as the holiday draws closer. But it’s more than just the food that brings families together.
“Getting to see everyone, we all kind of huddled in to our little Covid caves, if you want to call it that, the last few years and it will be really nice to see both families on the same year,” Darcie Reckers said.
Drew Adamek was at the store shopping with his son.
“I happen to like Thanksgiving, but for us it’s a nice way to take a break, a family break,” Adamek said.
CBS News reports Walmart and Kroger have cut prices on turkeys and other holiday essentials.
“A lot of beef tenderloins, of course you’ve got your turkeys, we do a very good deal on the fresh local turkeys so that’s a number one for us right there,” Oliver said.
Darcie Reckers had one final message before the big feast.
“I hope everybody can get out and see their families, be safe with their travels and enjoy the day,” Reckers said.
Oliver also said his staff keeps a close eye on their daily cuts to help control shrink and loss of certain meats. | 2022-11-24T06:46:20Z | www.wcia.com | Grocery shopping ahead of Thanksgiving | https://www.wcia.com/news/grocery-shopping-ahead-of-thanksgiving/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/grocery-shopping-ahead-of-thanksgiving/ |
Champaign Police said the incident on Krebs Drive does not have any impact on public safety.
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — People in a Champaign neighborhood were left shocked Thursday evening by a large police response outside their homes, interrupting their Thanksgiving evenings.
Personnel from the Champaign Police and Fire Departments responded to the corner of Krebs Drive and Sharp Drive just before 4 p.m. Reporters on the scene saw police officers going in and out of one home and one person being loaded into an ambulance.
Champaign Police have not released any details about what prompted this response. Neighbors who got up from their Thanksgiving dinners to see what was happening don’t know much either.
Those who spoke with our reporters said the neighborhood is a quiet and friendly place, with one person saying she always said hello to the people who live in the house where emergency personnel were gathered.
Sunita Babbar said she had never seen anything like this before.
“I closed the door. I was scared,” Babbar said. “Then I opened the kitchen window and I said, ‘There are too many policemen there.’ I’m just watching them.”
Emergency personnel have since left the scene.
This is a developing story and WCIA is working to learn more details about what happened. | 2022-11-25T01:13:49Z | www.wcia.com | Neighbors shocked by police presence in Champaign | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/neighbors-shocked-by-police-presence-in-champaign-neighborhood/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/neighbors-shocked-by-police-presence-in-champaign-neighborhood/ |
HOOPESTON, Ill. (WCIA) — Part of Hoopeston is under a boil order due to a water main break.
The City of Hoopeston Water Department said the area under the boil order includes W. Main St. to W. Thompson St. and N. Sixth Ave. to N. Dixie Hwy. This order does not include the west side of N. Dixie Hwy.
Hoopeston will be under the boil order until further notice. | 2022-11-27T22:27:52Z | www.wcia.com | Hoopeston under boil order | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/hoopeston-under-boil-order/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/hoopeston-under-boil-order/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — According to Illinois State Police, there is a high volume of holiday traffic on I-57 southbound and the Market Street Exit near Champaign.
Police said crashes and numerous near misses are reported on the interstate. Officers encourage drivers to use a different exit or pay extra attention when driving through this area. | 2022-11-28T01:17:57Z | www.wcia.com | Heavy holiday traffic observed near Champaign I-57 Exit | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/heavy-holiday-traffic-observed-near-champaign-i-57-exit/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/heavy-holiday-traffic-observed-near-champaign-i-57-exit/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Champaign County Crime Stoppers is asking for the public’s help in solving an attempted retail theft that happened earlier this month.
Officials said that on Nov. 18, a man tried to steal more than $1,400 worth of tools and other items from Champaign’s Home Depot. He was confronted at the door by loss prevention and subsequently left the store on foot.
The suspect appeared to be a Black male wearing black clothing, including a stocking cap, jacket and pants, and tan shoes.
Photo courtesy of Champaign County Crime Stoppers
Anyone who has information about this crime is asked to contact Crime Stoppers by calling 217-373-8477, visiting their website or using the P3 Tips app. All tips are submitted anonymously and can be rewarded with cash if an arrest is made using said tips. | 2022-11-28T21:52:09Z | www.wcia.com | Crime Stoppers looking for theft suspect | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/crime-stoppers-looking-for-theft-suspect/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/crime-stoppers-looking-for-theft-suspect/ |
HOOPESTON, Ill. (WCIA) — The Hoopeston Fire Department said some equipment was damaged by drivers while they were responding to a fire on Sunday morning.
Hoopeston remains under boil order
The fire occurred at the 1000 block of W. Main St. Crews extinguished the fire and no injuries were reported.
The fire department said that while they were extinguishing the fire, drivers ran over a fire hose and hazard cones, causing damage to both. They said the damage was easily preventable and they are thankful no one was hurt.
They shared on Facebook that the vehicles and owners have been identified and the drivers were ticketed.
In recent months, Illinois State Police have been encouraging safe driving around emergency vehicles after an officer was hit in Effingham. Gov. J.B. Pritzker issued a proclamation making Oct. 15 “Slow Down, Move Over Day” to raise awareness about safe driving, specifically around emergency vehicles and construction areas.
Illinois Trooper hurt, workers killed in Scott’s Law crashes
Urbana Police have also been encouraging drivers to be more cautious after an Urbana man ran into a construction site and hit a worker four weeks ago. He was later issued two citations in connection with the incident. | 2022-11-28T21:52:15Z | www.wcia.com | Drivers damage equipment while crews respond to Hoopeston fire | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/drivers-damage-equipment-while-crews-respond-to-hoopeston-fire/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/drivers-damage-equipment-while-crews-respond-to-hoopeston-fire/ |
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — One state-wide organization is planning to go “ham” for Giving Tuesday this holiday season.
In a release, the Illinois Pork Producers Association announced they will be taking part in the #GiveaHam challenge by participating in “Hams for Heroes”, an original campaign created by the IPPA to supply military families in need with holiday hams.
The IPPA will be challenging the Illinois Department of Agriculture to help them donate hams.
They will be holding a press conference Tuesday in Springfield. | 2022-11-28T21:52:21Z | www.wcia.com | ‘Hams for Heroes’, Illinois Pork Producers Association to donate holiday hams | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/illinois-pork-producers-association-to-donate-holiday-hams/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/illinois-pork-producers-association-to-donate-holiday-hams/ |
JACKSONVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — One town in Morgan County has prepared for a record-breaking holiday downtown attraction.
The Farmers State Bank and Trust Company in downtown Jacksonville has converted its building into an Advent calendar this year. Starting December 1st, the 24 windows on the 110 ft tall building will reveal a different design each day.
Courtesy: Steven Varble
The idea came about this summer when retired teacher Patrick Kennedy realized the newly installed windows were perfect for a calendar counting down the days in December.
“It was obvious almost instantly,” says Kennedy. “It was the perfect location.”
Kennedy contacted Jo Ann Nelson, a former teacher familiar with similar advent displays in Germany, and designer Steven Varble. They then approached the bank with the proposal.
“We were cautiously skeptical at first,” Elizabeth Becker, current bank Executive Vice President, said. “But the more we explored the idea, the more excited we became. Then, we began to look online and found that while there had been slightly larger displays in the past in Europe, we believe this to be tallest today. My own children are very excited to see the building transform each day until Christmas!”
Like personal advent calendars filled with chocolate, the bank will hand out sweet treats to members of the public in their lobby or drive-up as well as enter them into their holiday giveaways.
While the windows will be lit during the day, the bank recommends viewing the lights from dusk to 2am. The advent calendar will be viewable daily until Jan. 6. | 2022-11-28T21:52:33Z | www.wcia.com | Jacksonville hosts world’s tallest advent calendar | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/jacksonville-hosts-worlds-tallest-advent-calendar/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/jacksonville-hosts-worlds-tallest-advent-calendar/ |
Rochester, Ill. (WCIA)
Here at Walnut Street Winery, we provide our customers with a relaxing, pleasant place to unwind with friends and are a source for great wines that are locally made. We are often asked if we make all the wine we offer, and we do. Our best-selling wines are Blackjack, a Raspberry Pinot Noir, and our Cabernet Sauvignon. We are open Sunday through Friday from 2:00-9:00 pm and Saturday from 12:00-9:00 pm. We offer food, with an expanded menu on the weekends. Since we are a small business, we can work with customers to host events at the winery, and we can provide collaborations on fundraising events. We have a bocce ball court where we have spring and fall leagues, and even play a game if there is time.
We are a microwinery that sources processed grapes from some of the highest quality growers around the world. We make small batches of our wines to produce and bottle them right here on site. We offer have a full bar with bourbon flights featuring bourbons from around the world and 17 wines that we make here at the winery. In the fall and spring, we have bocce ball leagues three nights a week that are very popular. Throughout the year, we have live music on the weekends and host other events, such as a chili cookoff, paint parties, and fundraisers.
We are about to bottle our Crantastic, a Cranberry Shiraz that is perfect for the holiday season. We have gift baskets for the holidays and can host your next holiday party. Every week, we have happy hours specials Monday through Friday from 5-7 pm and live music on Saturdays. In April, our spring bocce leagues will start again.
My formal training is in art and design and agriculture, but I have made wine at home for years. At Walnut Street Winery, I do a bit of everything. I make the wine, from fermentation to bottling, design all the labels and logos, fix anything that needs repairs, and do the promotional work with our live music and events. I am also the main contact person for wholesale and private events at the winery. People are surprised at how many roles I take on, but that’s the nature of being a small business.
Rochester IL 62563 | 2022-11-28T23:54:13Z | www.wcia.com | Walnut Street Winery | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/ciliving-tv/ciliving-stories/ciliving/walnut-street-winery/ | https://www.wcia.com/ciliving-tv/ciliving-stories/ciliving/walnut-street-winery/ |
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — Governor J.B. Pritzker announced Monday he has appointed a new replacement Cannabis Regulation Oversight Officer.
The new appointee is Erin Johnson, who currently works at the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice and previously worked for former governor Bruce Rauner.
“Erin Johnson’s commitment to equity will serve Illinois well as she takes the reins as the state’s Cannabis Regulation Oversight Officer,” Pritzker said. “From serving as the Chief of Staff at the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice to working as Associate General Counsel and Chief Diversity Officer, Erin has the experience, education, and expertise to thrive in this role while advancing cannabis equity throughout Illinois.”
The position works in the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to direct state agencies on regulating and taxing Illinois’ cannabis industry, as well as make sure the state is reaching its social equity goals.
“I am incredibly thankful to Governor Pritzker for trusting me to lead the administration’s cannabis regulation efforts,” Johnson said. “Together we will move Illinois forward and continue to build a cannabis industry that is driven by social equity, providing opportunities and righting generations of wrongs.”
Johnson is just the second CROO in state history, after the state created the position when Pritzker signed a law legalizing marijuana in 2019. Johnson replaces Danielle Perry, who left the role in May.
The appointment awaits confirmation from the Illinois Senate. The Senate Appointments Committee is set to meet this week. | 2022-11-28T23:54:44Z | www.wcia.com | Pritzker appoints new cannabis officer for Illinois | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/pritzker-appoints-new-cannabis-officer-for-illinois/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/pritzker-appoints-new-cannabis-officer-for-illinois/ |
WCIA — After a phenomenal second season on the Illini sidelines, defensive coordinator Ryan Walters continues to get national attention for leading the Illinois defensive unit as he was named a finalist for the Broyles Award.
Every year it is given to the best assistant coach in the nation. Illinois leads the nation in interceptions, and is second in scoring defense and touchdowns allowed. The finalists are:
Ryan Walters, Illinois DC
Garrett Riley, TCU OC | 2022-11-29T05:33:53Z | www.wcia.com | Walters named finalist for Broyles Award | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/sports/your-illini-nation/walters-named-finalist-for-broyles-award-2/ | https://www.wcia.com/sports/your-illini-nation/walters-named-finalist-for-broyles-award-2/ |
WCIA — Chase Brown and Devon Witherspoon are both finalists for national awards. Brown is one of only three players remaining to win the Doak Walker Award, given to the country’s top running back. Witherspoon is one of three players left to win the Jim Thorpe Award, recognizing the nation’s top defensive back.
Brown is currently second in college football with 1,643 yards this season, leading the Power-5 in rushing start to finish in the regular season. He’s third in the country in all-purpose yards (1,883), second in rushes of 10+ yards (48) and is tied for third in 100-yard games with 10. Brown is Illinois’ first ever Doak Walker Award finalist since the award began in 1990. The Doak Walker Award presentation will take place on the SMU campus at the annual banquet scheduled for Feb. 17, 2023.
Meanwhile, Witherspoon is the Illini’s first Jim Thorpe Award finalist, he’s competing with Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson (TCU) and Clark Phillips III (Utah) for the prestigious honor.
Witherspoon leads the nation in reception percentage against at 33.8%, forced incompletions at 16, is sixth in the country in passes defended with 17 and did not allow a touchdown all season, according to PFF.
The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award commemorative banquet is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023 in Oklahoma City.
Illinois Finalists – National College Football Awards Association
2022 Thorpe – Devon Witherspoon, CB
2022 Doak – Chase Brown, RB
2013 Wuerrfel – Nathan Scheelhaase, QB
2011 Nagurski – Whitney Mercilus, DE
2007 Wuerrfel – J Leman, LB
2007 Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year – Ron Zook, HC
2001 Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year – Ron Turner, HC
1995 Butkus – Kevin Hardy, LB (winner)
1995 Nagurski – Kevin Brown, LB
1995 Bednarik – Simeon Rice, LB
1995 Bednarik – Kevin Hardy, LB
1994 Butkus – Dana Howard, LB (winner)
1994 FWAA Defensive Player of the Year – Dana Howard, LB
1990 Butkus – Darrick Brownlow, LB
1989 Outland – Moe Gardner, DT
1989 O’Brien – Jeff George, QB
1985 O’Brien – Jack Trudeau, QB
1982 O’Brien – Tony Eason, QB
1965 Heisman – Jim Grabowski, RB
1964 Heisman – Dick Butkus, LB | 2022-11-29T17:55:17Z | www.wcia.com | Brown, Witherspoon named national award finalists | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/sports/your-illini-nation/witherspoon-brown-named-national-award-finalists/ | https://www.wcia.com/sports/your-illini-nation/witherspoon-brown-named-national-award-finalists/ |
Witherspoon named B1G Defensive Back of the Year, Newton and Brown named All-Big Ten first team
WCIA — Devon Witherspoon is the Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year. The Illinois cornerback is the first Illini positional player (non-special teams) to win a conference individual award since 2007.
For the first time since 1994, the Illini landed three players on the All-Big Ten first team defense. Kevin Hardy, Simeon Rice and Dana Howard were the last to do it 28 years ago, now Witherspoon joins defensive tackle Johnny Newton as first team selections by both the coaches and media. Sydney Brown is a first team selection by the coaches, second team by media.
Fellow defensive back Quan Martin was tabbed a second team selection, with defensive tackle Keith Randolph Jr. landing on the third team. Ten Illini in all are listed as All-Big Ten, with linebacker Isaac Darkangelo, outside linebacker Seth Coleman, defensive back Kendall Smith and outside linebacker Gabe Jacas receiving honorable mention recognition. On special teams, kicker Caleb Griffin, a Danville native, is also honorable mention. | 2022-11-29T17:55:23Z | www.wcia.com | Witherspoon named B1G Defensive Back of the Year, Newton and Brown named All-Big Ten first team | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/sports/your-illini-nation/witherspoon-newton-brown-named-all-big-ten-first-team-defense/ | https://www.wcia.com/sports/your-illini-nation/witherspoon-newton-brown-named-all-big-ten-first-team-defense/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — On this Day of Giving, WCIA is taking donations from the community and giving them to area organizations dedicated to achieving Victory Over Violence.
Carle Hospital is one of those organizations. Dr. Napolean Knight stopped by the WCIA backlot to speak about Carle’s involvement with Karina Rubio. | 2022-11-29T21:37:29Z | www.wcia.com | Day of Giving 2022: Dr. Napolean Knight | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/day-of-giving-2022-dr-napolean-knight/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/day-of-giving-2022-dr-napolean-knight/ |
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — One father from Chatham has been recognized for being a model of fatherhood in the state capitol.
Dave Dahl, the news director of Springfield radio station WTAX, was awarded Father of the Year from the Illinois Council on Responsible Fatherhood back in early October. On Tuesday, representatives from the Illinois House of Representatives recognized Dahl with a proclamation.
“We also watched him, sort of [emblematically] of how so many families struggled during COVID with the obligations of fatherhood of caring for two sons, one of whom had medical struggles before COVID came along and then going through it during COVID.” Majority Leader Greg Harris (D-Chicago) said. “You know, he’s really a role model for what good fathers in our state looks like. We’re just very pleased today in the house we can recognize you and honor you.”
The full video can be viewed here:
Dahl has two sons, Clifford and Isaac. Clifford has a rare neurological disease called Batten Disease. | 2022-11-29T21:37:35Z | www.wcia.com | Sangamon County Father of the Year receives statehouse proclamation | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/sangamon-county-father-of-the-year-receives-statehouse-proclamation/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/sangamon-county-father-of-the-year-receives-statehouse-proclamation/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Morning show anchor Matthew White was live in the WCIA-3 backlot on Tuesday morning promoting the 2022 Day of Giving and WCIA-3’s Victory Over Violence campaign.
White was joined by Santa Claus and Rantoul Police Officer Christina Reifsteck.
“We love being a part of this program,” said Reifsteck. “The United Way has been so generous. The Victory Over Violence program has been so generous with their Shop with a Cop program, and one of the things that we get to do is as a police department is really connect with our community and it’s a community event.”
“We take the students. We call the families. We find out how many siblings they have and then our officers and families will show up and we go shopping with the kids for the kids and their families,” said Reifsteck. “It’s a real great piece of engagement and we really love taking it to the next level, letting those kids see what we do when we go shopping and so it’s very personal for us.”
White then turned to Santa Claus because as White explained, there are kids out there who make bad decisions and we’re here to help support them and give them alternatives to those decisions.
“Be good because I’m coming,” said Santa.
WCIA-3 will be accepting donations in their backlot until 7 p.m. | 2022-11-29T23:21:59Z | www.wcia.com | Day of Giving 2022: Rantoul Police and Santa Claus | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/day-of-giving-2022-rantoul-police-and-santa-claus/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/day-of-giving-2022-rantoul-police-and-santa-claus/ |
Editor’s note: This article was edited to reflect an update from Champaign Police regarding the charges Deshawn Brown is facing. Champaign Police initially reported that Brown was charged with aggravated battery with a firearm, but have since said he was not charged with that crime.
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — A 17-year-old from Champaign is facing adult murder charges in connection to a shooting that left another teenager dead earlier this month.
Keshawn Brown is charged with four counts of first-degree murder. Champaign Police officials said Brown was arrested Monday night in Normal on unrelated charges and was transported back to Champaign County.
The charges accuse Brown of shooting 18-year-old Nizeri Carter multiple times the evening of Nov. 4 in the area of Elm Street and Bradley Avenue. Carter arrived at an area hospital by personal vehicle shortly after officers arrived at the shooting location. She later died from her injuries at the hospital.
The initial investigation indicated that two people were involved in Carter’s murder. There is no update on the second suspect.
Although an arrest has been made and charges have been filed, Champaign Police are still investigating the murder. Officials said that any eyewitness accounts and video footage could assist.
Anyone who has additional information is asked to contact Champaign Police at 217-351-4545. Arrangements can be made to share information in private. Anyone wishing to remain annonymous can submit information to Champaign County Crime Stoppers by calling 217-373-8477, visiting their website or using the P3 Tips app. Crime Stoppers will reward tips that result in an arrest with up to $5,000 for homicides. | 2022-11-29T23:22:27Z | www.wcia.com | Police: Teen charged as adult in Champaign murder investigation | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/police-teen-charged-as-adult-in-murder-investigation/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/police-teen-charged-as-adult-in-murder-investigation/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill., (WCIA) — Groups, organizers and donors visited the WCIA back parking lot throughout the day on Giving Tuesday, all working to make the community safer, part of the Victory Over Violence campaign.
Two of the groups, like Rantoul Police Department’s Shop with a Cop program, and the YMCA’s Y on the Fly program spent their mornings in the lot gathering donations and sharing their stories.
Capricia Whittaker, the Y on the Fly director, said they go into underserved communities and provide kids with programming.
She helps bring activities ranging from math, science, art and sports out of the Y and into Champaign neighborhoods.
“The trauma could be at home, the trauma could be at school, and sometimes it’s just nice to have that unbiased place where you can let go and feel like you can be yourself,” Whittaker said.
She said it’s important for kids to be in a new, safe environment with no judgment. They also have a program with law enforcement, Cocoa with a Cop.
“We want to make sure that our communities feel safe but we also want to make sure that the community feels safe by the people that should be making them feel safe,” Whittaker said.
Christina Reifsteck and the Rantoul Police Department have the same goal, creating a bridge through their “Shop with a Cop” program.
“We shop for the kids, the kids get to come shop for their family,” Reifsteck said.
She said teachers nominate the kids, and officers spend one-on-one time with them.
“It gives children an opportunity to see what officers are really like as people, and not just what we do as a job,” she added.
The money raised through the Victory Over Violence campaign will help the department shop for more gifts, and help Whittaker grow the YMCA program.
She hopes that includes expanding the age group they get to work with. Right now, they focus on grades K-5. In the future, she wants to also work with 6th-8th grade, maybe even high schoolers. | 2022-11-30T01:43:26Z | www.wcia.com | Day of Giving 2022: Champaign County groups expanding programming with donations | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/day-of-giving-2022-champaign-county-groups-expanding-programming-with-donations/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/day-of-giving-2022-champaign-county-groups-expanding-programming-with-donations/ |
Day of Giving 2022: Champaign Police thankful for community anti-violence group
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Groups, organizers and donors visited the WCIA-3 back parking lot throughout the day on Giving Tuesday, all working to make the community safer, part of the Victory Over Violence campaign.
The Champaign Police Department say progress can’t be made without groups working to make big strides. Some of those groups are helping people finish their education, introduce kids to new activities and really increase involvement in so many different ways.
“One of the things that the Champaign police do themselves is Coffee with a Cop,” said Joe Lamberson with the police department. “They invite community members to various restaurants throughout the year to talk and create relationships.”
Lamberson says it’s important to get down to the root problems that lead to gun violence.
“Really it’s about a holistic approach to a problem that no one has a singular answer to be able to solve,” said Lamberson. “Police are only one aspect of addressing the violence we’ve seen in our community. What I can say is, the efforts are working. Gun violence is down by 49% in the City of Champaign year over year from the same time in 2021.”
Day of Giving: Midnight Basketball
Lamberson says community members are a big part of that decrease.
“Whenever they can bring police information about a situation, it leads them even closer to making an arrest,” said Lamberson. | 2022-11-30T04:22:25Z | www.wcia.com | Day of Giving 2022: Champaign Police thankful for community anti-violence group | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/day-of-giving-2022-champaign-police-thankful-for-community-anti-violence-group/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/day-of-giving-2022-champaign-police-thankful-for-community-anti-violence-group/ |
Day of Giving 2022: First String group introducing kids to more than teamwork
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — First String is a group has been in the Champaign area for over 30 years.
Kids meet at Douglass Park in the winter months to play basketball inside but transition to baseball outside when it gets warmer.
One of the organizers, Joe Stovall, says there is so much to learn from sports like how to work with a team and collaborate with others, but it doesn’t stop there.
“Baseball is a game of failure,” said Stovall. “One guy up to bat, you got 9 people in the field and even if you get on first base, the job isn’t done. You have to depend on teammates to get you to move around so they learn about teamwork and sacrifice and working well with others.”
Stovall says this group really helps kids learn how to be responsible people in the community while also learning about sportsmanship and fair play. | 2022-11-30T04:22:31Z | www.wcia.com | Day of Giving 2022: First String group introducing kids to more than teamwork | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/day-of-giving-2022-first-string-group-introducing-kids-to-more-than-teamwork/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/day-of-giving-2022-first-string-group-introducing-kids-to-more-than-teamwork/ |
CHAMPAIGN (WCIA) — In episode 161 of the WCIA 3-in-1 Pod: Bret Beherns and Andy Olson recap No. 16 Illinois basketball’s 73-44 win over Syracuse in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge. Coleman Hawkins became just the fourth Illini in program history to record a triple-double, scoring 15 points, while grabbing 10 rebounds and dishing 10 assists.
Listen: https://anchor.fm/wcia-3-sports/episodes/Hawking-the-Triple-Double-e1rh8rb | 2022-11-30T07:34:14Z | www.wcia.com | WCIA 3-in-1 Pod: Hawking the Triple-Double | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/sports/your-illini-nation/wcia-3-in-1-pod-hawking-the-triple-double/ | https://www.wcia.com/sports/your-illini-nation/wcia-3-in-1-pod-hawking-the-triple-double/ |
Monticello schools outdoor facilities upgrade project breaks ground
MONTICELLO, Ill. (WCIA) — The Monticello Community Unit School District #25 athletic facility upgrades are set to break ground in the coming weeks.
ATG Sports plans to start construction on the new soccer field in December, with a planned April 2023 completion. The new football field is expected to be complete in summer 2023 followed by new softball and baseball fields with a late summer or fall 2023 completion.
“I am excited for this project,” said Adam Clapp, superintendent of Monticello CUSD #25. “These facilities will be a focal point for Monticello schools and the Monticello community for years to come.”
The superintendent shared on Facebook that this project will utilize Corporate Personal Property Replacement Tax and Piatt County sales tax revenue, and that Monticello tax rates will continue to be one of the lowest in Central Illinois. He added that these new facilities will open the door to continued partnerships between the school district and the City of Monticello.
Clapp also said that aside from high school athletics, the new facilities will benefit many other clubs and organizations. These include Monticello Recreation soccer and junior football leagues, Pirates Soccer Club, travel baseball and softball teams, the MHS Marching Sages, MHS and Washington Elementary PE students and youth travel teams.
“The number of students and youth of Monticello impacted by these upgrades is incredible to me,” said Clapp. “Hundreds of students and kids will be able to utilize these turf fields year-round.”
Teschke leading Monticello football as ‘Swiss Army Knife’
The new soccer field will be located inside the MHS track. With the existing lights and the installation of new bleachers and press box, Clapp said the soccer teams now have a stadium-type venue which will allow for potential night games. Other additions in the project include a turf football field and upgraded dugouts for baseball and softball teams.
Clapp said the Board of Education is also considering a facility building located in the Dwight B. Wilkes complex which would house a weight room, concession stand for soccer and track and restrooms for the Wilkes complex. | 2022-11-30T19:29:45Z | www.wcia.com | Monticello schools outdoor facilities upgrade project breaks ground | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/monticello-high-school-outdoor-facility-projects-break-ground/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/monticello-high-school-outdoor-facility-projects-break-ground/ |
Photo courtesy of Alderman Brandon Barragree’s Facebook page
WATSEKA, Ill. (WCIA) — The entire city of Watseka is under a boil order after a water main break early Wednesday morning.
The break happened near the CVS at 300 Walnut Street. City officials said the pipe had a large spiral crack in it that ran for 10 feet, necessitating a “large repair” that required all public works and water personnel in the city to be on the scene. With so much water leaking out of the pipe, water pressure in the city was greatly reduced.
Alderman Brandon Barragree shared on his Facebook page that the damaged section of the pipe was replaced and water service was restored around 9:30 a.m. As pressure continues to build, city officials enacted a boil order effective immediately.
An official with the Watseka Public Works Department said staff are taking samples from the water and testing them to ensure they are safe to consume. He said the boil order is expected to be lifted on Thursday as long as the samples pass the required tests. | 2022-11-30T19:29:51Z | www.wcia.com | Watseka under boil order after water main break | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/watseka-under-boil-order-after-water-main-break/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/watseka-under-boil-order-after-water-main-break/ |
DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — Drivers in Danville will find new traffic conditions at one intersection in the city starting Wednesday.
The intersection of Logan Avenue, Winter Avenue and Denmark Road became a three-way stop as part of a construction project to improve Denmark. People driving from Winter to Logan will continue to see a stop sign at that part of the intersection, but drivers on Denmark and Logan will see a pair of new pavement stop bars.
The Denmark Road construction project involves the addition of sidewalks and crosswalks at the intersection. Drivers are encouraged to pay special attention and proceed with caution to the new three-stop intersection. | 2022-11-30T21:19:27Z | www.wcia.com | Danville intersection switches to three-way-stop | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/traffic/danville-intersection-switches-to-three-way-stop/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/traffic/danville-intersection-switches-to-three-way-stop/ |
Eight Illini named on offensive B1G All Conference teams
(WCIA) — With Big Ten college football wrapping up regular season play, the offensive All Conference lists have come out and eight Illini are getting recognized.
The nation’s leading rusher, Chase Brown, was named second team all conference, which was a surprise to see Brown not on first team. Minnesota’s Mo Ibrahim and Michigan’s Blake Corum were put on first team over Brown.
The Illini offensive line got some recognition. Alex Pihlstrom and Alex Palczewski each earned second team honors and Isaiah Adams landed on third team. Palczewski says while the season ended a game sooner than the Illini wanted, the program is moving in the right direction.
“I feel like we’re supposed to be playing next Saturday, but that’s just something we have to eat and something you know, I have to be appreciative of,” Palczewski said. “I came here as a freshman in 2017, we’re 2-10. If you would’ve told me I was 8-4 at the time, I would’ve been pretty happy, but it’s just being appreciative of what we have knowing and enjoying our time this last month, hopefully get a nice Bowl game and be able to go play a good game there.”
Four Illini were honorable mention: wide receiver Isaiah Williams, offensive lineman and Danville native Julian Pearl, offensive lineman Zy Crisler, and quarterback Tommy Devito. | 2022-11-30T23:04:45Z | www.wcia.com | Eight Illini named on offensive B1G All Conference teams | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/sports/eight-illini-named-on-offensive-b1g-all-conference-teams/ | https://www.wcia.com/sports/eight-illini-named-on-offensive-b1g-all-conference-teams/ |
Photo courtesy of OSF
URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — OSF is honoring a longtime nurse this holiday season with the annual return of what they said was her “pride and joy.”
Every year, OSF sets up its Caring Mitten Tree in the lobby of OSF Heart of Mary Medical Center to act as a donation site for gloves, mittens, hats, scarves and blankets. For nearly 20 years, the tradition was led by OSF nurse JoAnne Cabutti, whom the tree was later named after.
Cabutti recently passed away and the hospital is honoring her not only with the return of the Mitten Tree, but with a fund to keep the community initiative alive. Each $5 donation will add a mitten with a personalized message to tree and will represent a gift of a hat, scarf or pair of mittens to people in need.
Donations for the Mitten Tree can be made in three ways:
Online through a donation form
List the gift in honor of JoAnne Cabutti
Mail to OSF HealthCare Heart of Mary, Attn: Foundation
Send to 1400 West Park Street
Drop off donations at the OSF Heart of Mary gift shop
Make checks payable to OSF HealthCare Heart of Mary Medical Center with JoAnne Cabutti Mitten Tree on the memo line.
Include a message in the envelope to have a personalized message on the mitten | 2022-12-01T00:44:30Z | www.wcia.com | OSF honoring late nurse with mitten tree | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/osf-honoring-late-nurse-with-mitten-tree/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/osf-honoring-late-nurse-with-mitten-tree/ |
Shelbyville family turns a loss into a community treasure
SHELBYVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — One central Illinois family is using their Christmas tree farm to honor their son. Each November the Schwengels turn their No Bad Days’ farm into a Christmas tree hotspot for the Shelbyville area. And nearly every year, every tree is sold.
“We’re not set on selling a thousand Christmas Trees or something. We just want to do something kind of small and do it for the community and try to do it well,” said Kenneth Schwengel.
And for the past four years that’s what the Schwengel family has been doing. Every November the No Bad Days’ farm turns into thee place to pick up a real Christmas tree.
“It’s hard to beat. Everybody comes out and always in a good mood. And it’s good time of year. Nice to be outside and it’s just a great experience,” Schwengel continued.
An experience that the farm expands with free hot chocolate and cider to its customers. They can take a stroll through the tree garden and place a red tag on the tree they choose.
“I try to pick the most expensive one that will fit in the house and that’s how I make my choice,” said customer Kendra Rogers.
The Schwengels then cut, prepare, and pack the tree for the customer. And the reason behind it all– their son. In 20-16 Tucker Schwengel passed away in a car accident. The family works his memory into almost every aspect of their farm. His truck is used for their logo, ornaments, and it’s even parked in front of the farm.
“We’ve always had great memories in the past with our kids going out and cutting down Christmas trees. It’s just something that we felt like we wanted to do at this time and it’s a way that we honor our son,” said Schwengel.
No bad days’ farm will host Santa night on December second. The event will feature Santa and Mrs. Clause, carolers, and local vendors. It will run from 5PM-8PM. | 2022-12-01T09:22:33Z | www.wcia.com | Shelbyville family turns a loss into a community treasure | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/shelbyville-family-turns-a-loss-into-a-community-treasure/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/shelbyville-family-turns-a-loss-into-a-community-treasure/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – Ever wanted to know what it’s like to be Santa Claus? How about one that fights crime? Well, “Stranger Things” star David Harbour had to figure out the answer to that question in his latest film, “Violent Night”.
The role proved to be a little difficult for the actor.
“When you are fighting as just a dude, it’s different than when you are fighting as Santa Claus,” Harbour told our film critics Chuck Koplinski and Pam Powell. “He has entirely a different set of skills, and you know, he’s thousands of years old, and who was he back then? What has he been up to?”
These were the type of questions Harbour asked himself as he donned the red suit and white beard. The answer: just beat up bad guys as Santa Claus.
“When you are actually watching the movie, it’s plenty to have Santa just beat somebody up as opposed to have him say anything afterwards. The fact that you’ve done it is insane and hilarious.”
Harbour never pictured himself playing and an action Santa. But when the opportunity presented itself to him, he just could not turn it down.
“When it came along, I was like ‘this is so wonderful, this role is so wonderful, there is so much to dig into.'”
“Violent Night” is now out in local theaters. | 2022-12-01T18:54:08Z | www.wcia.com | EXCLUSIVE: David Harbour on his latest role as a crime-fighting Santa, ‘he has an entirely different set of skills’ | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/exclusive-david-harbour-on-his-latest-role-as-a-crime-fighting-santa-he-has-an-entirely-different-set-of-skills/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/exclusive-david-harbour-on-his-latest-role-as-a-crime-fighting-santa-he-has-an-entirely-different-set-of-skills/ |
NEOGA, Ill. (WCIA) — Authorities in Cumberland County are investigating after two people were found dead north of Neoga on Wednesday.
County Coroner Steve Sherwood confirmed the deaths, but would not comment on the circumstances nor provide any information about the victims. The Illinois State Police is leading the investigation.
This is a developing story and this article will be updated when more information becomes available. | 2022-12-01T18:55:14Z | www.wcia.com | Two found dead near Neoga | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/two-found-dead-near-neoga/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/two-found-dead-near-neoga/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — The Champaign Fire Department responded to a single-family house fire on Thursday.
At approximately 10:24 a.m., crews reported the fire on the 600 block of E. Eureka St. had begun to extend to the siding of the home. They quickly extinguished the small fire with a single hose line.
They said the cause of the fire is accidental and was attributed to improperly disposed smoking material. No firefighter or occupant injuries were reported.
The fire department reminds residents that smoke to not discard cigarettes in mulch, landscaping, dried grasses, leaves or other things that could easily ignite. They advise to use only a deep, sturdy ashtray and place it away from anything that can burn. | 2022-12-01T21:28:01Z | www.wcia.com | No one hurt in Champaign house fire caused by smoking material | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/no-one-hurt-in-champaign-house-fire-caused-by-smoking-material/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/no-one-hurt-in-champaign-house-fire-caused-by-smoking-material/ |
ILLINOIS (WCIA) — Illinois State Board of Education is requiring all Illinois student identification cards to include suicide prevention hotline contact information beginning Jan. 1.
ISBE Dr. Carmen Ayala shared new education-related laws that go into effect at the start of 2023, including the new student ID card requirement.
Public Act 102-0416 in the Illinois General Assembly said: “Each school district that serves pupils in any of grades 6-12 and that issues an identification card to pupils in any grades 6-12 shall provide contact information for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988), the Crisis Text Line, and either the Safe2Help Illinois helpline or a local suicide prevention hotline or both on the identification card.”
Also beginning on Jan. 1, middle and high school students will receive one excused absence per year to attend a civic event sponsored by a governmental entity or a nonprofit organization that is open to the public.
ISBE will also require districts to develop a plan to expand access to accelerated placement programs. They said beginning next school year, districts must automatically enroll high school students who meet or exceed standards into the next level course, unless parents opt their students out. | 2022-12-01T22:51:34Z | www.wcia.com | ISBE to require suicide prevention hotlines on student ID cards | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/isbe-to-require-suicide-prevention-hotlines-on-student-id-cards/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/isbe-to-require-suicide-prevention-hotlines-on-student-id-cards/ |
Illini men’s hoops head east for first Big Ten game of season
CHAMPAIGN (WCIA) — Illinois men’s basketball is heading east for their next two road games. First up, the Illini will have their first Big Ten test at undefeated Maryland.
Head coach Brad Underwood has been preparing his freshman for what that atmosphere will be like, having only played on the road in Las Vegas, where majority of fans were Illini fans. Underwood has been getting the freshman ready for a road game, but has confidence in his team and says they’re mature with how they play.
“We’ll pump a lot of crowd noise in here, we’ll pump a lot of music in here,” Underwood said. “We got to get them excited. We’ve got to get them dealing with some adversity. We tried that a lot. We got to play better. We got to play harder. We got to play tougher. It’s huge momentum swings happen in true road games and we got to withstand those and try to prevent those.”
Illinois will then head to the Big Apple to play Texas at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday. | 2022-12-01T23:46:32Z | www.wcia.com | Illini men’s hoops head east for first Big Ten game of season | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/sports/illini-mens-hoops-head-east-for-first-big-ten-game-of-season/ | https://www.wcia.com/sports/illini-mens-hoops-head-east-for-first-big-ten-game-of-season/ |
URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The grinch came early to one Urbana neighborhood. Homeowners woke up this morning to find some of their Christmas decorations missing. It happened near Ridge Park Road and Myra Ridge Drive.
Christmas decoration thefts
One man caught the theft on camera. First you see the thief’s car pull up and stop. A minute later one person is running off with an inflatable Christmas tree. While the other is trying to get an inflatable yeti.
The homeowner said luckily the yeti was more secure. But this wasn’t the only theft of the night.
Just a couple doors down, one neighbor said two of her decorations were stolen. Chris Urich said she dedicated a week to putting up the inflatables. And this morning all she was met with was cut wires.
“It’s just really, really sad that people have to go to that extent. You know, we were hard. There’s just– I’m a giver and I love doing for people and I just don’t understand,” said Urich.
Best Grinch outdoor Christmas decoration
For Urich her Christmas decorations held a deeper meaning. Since losing her son, she uses her Christmas decor as a way to honor to him.
Urich said she is going to add more surveillance to her home. After catching the thieves on video, the other homeowner said he’s going to chain together all the decorations on his lawn. | 2022-12-02T01:57:27Z | www.wcia.com | Christmas thieves hit Urbana overnight | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/christmas-thieves-hit-urbana-overnight/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/christmas-thieves-hit-urbana-overnight/ |
ILLINOIS (WCIA) — The Illinois State Board of Education is requiring all Illinois student identification cards to include suicide prevention hotline contact information starting Jan. 1.
ISBE Superintendent Dr. Carmen Ayala said several new education-related laws will go into effect at the start of 2023, including the new student ID card requirement.
Public Act 102-0416 in the Illinois General Assembly says “Each school district that serves pupils in any of grades 6-12 and that issues an identification card to pupils in any grades 6-12 shall provide contact information for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988), the Crisis Text Line, and either the Safe2Help Illinois helpline or a local suicide prevention hotline or both on the identification card.”
Also starting Jan. 1, middle and high school students will receive one excused absence per year to attend a civic event sponsored by a governmental entity or a nonprofit organization that is open to the public.
ISBE will also require districts to develop a plan to expand access to accelerated placement programs. Officials said that starting next school year, districts must automatically enroll high school students who meet or exceed standards into the next level course unless parents opt their students out. | 2022-12-02T01:57:33Z | www.wcia.com | ISBE to require suicide prevention hotlines on student ID cards | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/education/isbe-to-require-suicide-prevention-hotlines-on-student-id-cards/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/education/isbe-to-require-suicide-prevention-hotlines-on-student-id-cards/ |
Maryland survives late Illinois comeback, wins Top 25 showdown, Big Ten opener
COLLEGE PARK, Md. (WCIA) — Jahmir Young called game.
The Maryland guard hit a dagger 3 with 14 seconds left to give the 22nd-ranked Terrapins a four-point lead and an upset 71-66 win over No. 16 Illinois on Friday night in the Big Ten opener for both teams at Xfinity Center.
The Charlotte transfer scored a game high 24 points to keep the Terps (8-0) unbeaten, while handing the Illini (6-2, 0-1 B1G) their second loss. Hakim Hart added 17 points for Maryland, with Donta Scott adding 12.
Terrence Shannon Jr. went down in the second half after getting into a collision with Julian Reese. He laid on the floor and eventually got up on his own but had a large gash above his eye. Illinois head coach Brad Underwood said he needed stitches after the game, but the Texas Tech transfer still scored a team high 10 points to go along with seven rebounds. Coleman Hawkins added 16 points and seven boards, with RJ Melendez the other Illini in double-figures with 13.
Illinois returns to Champaign but will be flying back to the East Coast on Monday afternoon to get ready for Tuesday night’s game against No. 2 Texas at Madison Square Garden in the Jimmy V Classic. The Longhorns are unbeaten this season. | 2022-12-03T05:52:29Z | www.wcia.com | Maryland survives late Illinois comeback, wins Top 25 showdown, Big Ten opener | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/sports/your-illini-nation/maryland-survives-late-illinois-comeback-wins-top-25-showdown-big-ten-opener/ | https://www.wcia.com/sports/your-illini-nation/maryland-survives-late-illinois-comeback-wins-top-25-showdown-big-ten-opener/ |
FARMER CITY, Ill. (WCIA) — To seek more lifeguards for its public pool this year, the City of Farmer City offers a group training class to local candidates.
The city will hold the class at the Clinton YMCA over Christmas break. City officials said they will also distribute it at Blue Ridge High School. The city-funded certification will take 28 to 36 hours and doesn’t require upfront costs.
Candidates must be strong swimmers aged 15 and above. Class opens Dec. 21-23 and Dec. 27-30.
City officials said they need at least six participants to hold the class. Candidates have to contact the city hall to register. | 2022-12-04T00:33:24Z | www.wcia.com | Farmer City offers lifeguard training for public pool | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/farmer-city-offers-lifeguard-training-for-public-pool/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/farmer-city-offers-lifeguard-training-for-public-pool/ |
DECATUR, Ill., (WCIA) — On Saturday afternoon, many kids in Central Illinois had their Christmas wish granted, a new bike.
James Bond of Decatur started spreading his generosity this summer after decorating a bus stop on Maryland Street near the Walmart in Decatur. After connecting with many people there, he knew he had to do more.
Bond is on a mission. His bike drive has been in the works since September and all of his hard work paid off on Saturday. 70 kids got bikes, all because of the kindness of people not just in Central Illinois, but across the nation.
“Hopefully they’ll have one of the best Christmases they’ve ever had,” he said.
He aimed to collect new bikes from all 50 states over three months. By Saturday, he said 32 states had responded.
“They’re wanting their bikes for Christmas. That was the whole purpose, get this set up where we can hold the bikes, we can get them for them,” Bond added.
Over 150 kids and parents lined up in the Walmart parking lot waiting to see if they would win a bike; they’ve been signing up for a raffle ticket to win since September.
Decatur man starts bike drive, reaching all 50 states
Myah Riggen, an 8-year-old in town, and two of her siblings each got a bike.
“When I saw it in line I was like, that’s my bike?! That’s so cute,” Riggen said.
She said her favorite color is hot pink, just like the bike.
Bond said he wanted it to be more than just getting a bike and leaving. So, he and his family set up a red carpet and a stage.
“I was nervous when I went up on the stage. When I was taking a picture with my bike, I was like, okay I’m ready to ride it now,” Riggen said.
Bond knows it’s more than just a Christmas present and hopes it serves as an example of bringing people together.
“Just remember there’s a lot of nice people out there,” the organizer said.
This mission led him to cross paths with people he might not have if it weren’t for his generosity.
Magical holiday shopping at Brass Horn Too & Brass Horn Kids
He said he met a lady from New Mexico through the process.
“I talked to her, we went in the store, she picked her own bike out, she brought it out, she colored in her own state. I will remember it,” Bond said.
He hopes children don’t forget their gifts either.
Riggen said she’s excited to ride her bike around the block.
The bus stop he started decorating over the summer is still decked out — now for the holidays. Bond added candy canes and Christmas lights all around it. A nativity scene lights up as well.
For the kids who didn’t get a bike, Bond is making sure they aren’t left out. He’s planning a Christmas party in Decatur for them sometime over winter break. | 2022-12-04T02:17:41Z | www.wcia.com | ‘There’s a lot of nice people out there:’ Decatur man hosts holiday bike drive | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/theres-a-lot-of-nice-people-out-there-decatur-man-hosts-holiday-bike-drive/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/theres-a-lot-of-nice-people-out-there-decatur-man-hosts-holiday-bike-drive/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – A large fire broke out Saturday evening in Champaign just before 9p.
The fire was reported near the intersection of North Second Street and East Washington Street.
That’s just northeast of downtown Champaign.
Multiple fire crews from Champaign and Urbana rushed to the scene .
Heavy smoke was reported by a WCIA viewer drifting along University Avenue from the fire in Champaign, several blocks from the scene.
We have a crew on scene. They report smoke billowing from the back of a home close to Second and Hill Street.
We’ll have a live report on WCIA 3 News at 10p. | 2022-12-04T05:33:49Z | www.wcia.com | Large fire breaks out in Champaign | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/large-fire-breaks-out-in-champaign/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/large-fire-breaks-out-in-champaign/ |
In-town emergency service to come to the Saint Joseph area
SAINT JOSEPH, Ill. (WCIA) — Fully staffed ambulance services are coming to the Saint Joseph area. Starting on November 6th the Saint Joseph Stanton Fire Protection District will be partnering with Carle-Arrow Ambulance.
The new emergency service will respond to calls in Saint Joseph, Sidney, Homer, Ogden, and Royal.
The fire district said the new arrangement could save at least 15 minutes when transporting to the hospital. | 2022-12-05T19:56:06Z | www.wcia.com | In-town emergency service to come to the Saint Joseph area | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/in-town-emergency-service-to-come-to-the-saint-joseph-area/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/in-town-emergency-service-to-come-to-the-saint-joseph-area/ |
Paxton, Ill. (WCIA)
We know about popcorn!
Marcia is a Special Education Teacher at GCMS and Alan is a retired Champaign Firefighter. The Kettle Korn Stop started as a fundraiser for youth wrestling in Paxton. Started just doing fairs and festivals and had people knocking at our house during the winter asking for kettle corn so we decided to open a store. They are really amazed that our premium flavors were designed, and handcrafted by Marcia
We are a speciality shop. Our name says it all Mom & Pop’s. We give the small, hometown service that you would expect with that name. We have catered birthday parties, baby and bridal showers, many weddings, office parties and even celebrations of life. We can create flavors that no one expects such as lemon or mint popcorn mixes.
Our specialty flavors are different. Our store is old time themed and the local one is modern.
It is our holiday season so we will have extended hours and open seven days a week from Black Friday to Christmas. Then, we will go back to being open Tuesday-Friday and Saturday. Santa Claus will be in the store Saturday, December 17th from 1:00 to 3:00pm.
Alan & Marcia Meyer
Mom & Pop’s Kettle Korn Stop
119 S. Market St.
Paxton, Il 60957 | 2022-12-05T23:08:04Z | www.wcia.com | Mom and Pop’s Kettle Korn Stop | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/ciliving-tv/ciliving-stories/ciliving/mom-and-pops-kettle-korn-stop/ | https://www.wcia.com/ciliving-tv/ciliving-stories/ciliving/mom-and-pops-kettle-korn-stop/ |
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — The State Board of Elections certified the midterm election results Monday, finalizing tabulations from November.
Overall, midterm turnout was down, being the fourth lowest turnout since 1982.
But State Board of Election spokesperson Matt Dietrich said if you remove outliers like 2018 and 1982, it’s close to several other years.
“Turnout is really about in line with what the average has been for midterm elections in Illinois,” Dietrich said. “You go year by year, and you’re going to see 49, 50, 51% in there, with a few notable exceptions.”
Courtesy: Illinois State Board of Elections
Illinois did see an increase in early and mail-in voting from previous years. While the 2020 election was a banner year for Vote by Mail and Early Voting because of the pandemic, there was nearly double the amount of people who voted by mail in 2022 compared to 2018.
“We think that most of the people who voted by mail this time around probably signed up to be on the permanent vote by mail list,” Dietrich said. “We don’t have official numbers on that yet, because we haven’t pulled all of the election authorities around the state. But early indications in early fall after the notifications for the availability of the vote by mail list were sent to voters.
More than 53% of voters also voted yes on Amendment 1, an amendment designed to protect organized labor rights in the state, letting it pass. The amendment is now in effect.
Voter information by county
November 8 2022 Midterm Election Results Pages
All Race Results
National Race Results and MAps
State Race Results and Maps
Midterm Election Quick Links
Illinois U.S. House Races
State Congress Races
Local County Races | 2022-12-06T00:58:07Z | www.wcia.com | State Board of Elections certifies 2022 results | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/your-local-election-hq/state-board-of-elections-certifies-2022-results/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/your-local-election-hq/state-board-of-elections-certifies-2022-results/ |
URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — There’s been a huge jump in people using solar energy in central Illinois. Officials say more people have signed up because of increasing energy costs.
This year, 70 property owners in Urbana signed up for the “Solar Urbana-Champaign” program. That’s compared to just 16 last year.
“Our purpose here is to make getting solar energy systems for homes or businesses faster, easier, and cheaper,” said Sustainability Officer Scott Tess.
And for homeowners in Urbana, the need for cheaper energy has become even more important. The end of year results for solar group buying program, Solar Urbana Champaign, has shown a huge jump for installs in the area. Urbana’s Sustainability Director said this new participation record is a reflection of a different record.
“We’ve had the lowest prices we’ve ever seen. At the same time, the grid prices, the electricity prices from the grid are rising as high as we’ve seen in a really long time,” said Tess.
Energy rates tripled for Urbana homeowners this month. The city’s locked in four cent rates went up to 12 cents. While solar energy could be a cheaper option in the long run, many people may not understand it; but that’s where Solar C-U comes in.
“We talk about everything solar, and we make people savvy consumers– savvy purchasers of a solar energy system, so they feel confident walking out the door,” said Tess.
Tess said costs with this year’s program ranged from $8,000 to $80,000. But people shouldn’t expect to see those savings up front. When compared to traditional energy costs, it may take a couple years to match initial costs for solar, the true savings comes after.
“At the end of that, the systems are guaranteed for 25 years. So, you have a backend benefit of a zero-cost energy,” said CRNE Solar Branch Manager, Doug Scatterday.
The program has closed for the year, but the next solar bulk purchase is expected to open next spring.
People are encouraged to sign up for email alerts for the next group buy opportunity. | 2022-12-06T02:41:49Z | www.wcia.com | Urbana solar program ends on record-breaking note | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/urbana-solar-program-ends-on-record-breaking-note/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/urbana-solar-program-ends-on-record-breaking-note/ |
Transfer portal officially opens for college football, Bielema doesn’t expect many Illini to enter: “The grass isn’t always going to be greener”
CHAMPAIGN (WCIA) — Let the portal madness begin. The college football transfer portal officially opened on Monday with thousands of players expected to enter their name into the open market, looking for a new team. New NCAA rules this year created a transfer portal window from Dec. 5 to Jan. 18, with a separate window for players to officially go into the portal in May. Instead of being able to freely enter their name into the portal at anytime, now players are limited to those two windows to officially be recruited by other schools.
Illinois has only had two scholarship players announce their intent to transfer, with DD Snyder and Daniel Edwards both posting on social media they are reopening their recruitment. Neither player suited up in a game for the Illini in their two years with the program, so the moves are not a huge surprise.
Illinois head coach Bret Bielema says he feels good about where his program is at, taking an honest and open approach with his players about their decision to stay or go, adding he doesn’t expect a lot of players to depart this offseason for another school.
“I think we do a good enough opportunity or do enough good things in our building that kids don’t want to leave,” Bielema said on Sunday during the team’s ReliaQuest Bowl bid press conference. “We had a couple kids leave last year in our conference and their numbers weren’t near as productive as when they were here so I think there’s good examples of the grass isn’t always going to be greener.”
Bielema was referring to Donny Navarro and Daniel Barker, who transferred to Northwestern and Michigan State respectively, following last season. Neither the Wildcats or Spartans qualified for a bowl this season and both players saw dips in their on-field production.
Players leaving the program for another school likely won’t be as big of a concern in roster management terms for the Illini compared to guys who are making choices about whether to turn pro or return to school. Bielema said Sunday he expects 7-8 players from this year’s team to have decisions about their future.
Last year more than 3,000 players entered the transfer portal, according to an article from CBS Sports. Of those players who went looking for a new home, several hundred did not find a new place to play. | 2022-12-06T03:39:01Z | www.wcia.com | Transfer portal officially opens for college football, Bielema doesn’t expect many Illini to enter: “The grass isn’t always going to be greener” | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/sports/your-illini-nation/transfer-portal-officially-opens-for-college-football-bielema-doesnt-expect-many-illini-to-enter-the-grass-isnt-always-going-to-be-greener/ | https://www.wcia.com/sports/your-illini-nation/transfer-portal-officially-opens-for-college-football-bielema-doesnt-expect-many-illini-to-enter-the-grass-isnt-always-going-to-be-greener/ |
DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — There’s another staffing shake-up for the Vermilion Regional Airport in Danville.
The office manager resigned on Friday.
In October, we reported about the airport manager who quit during a board meeting after being accused of drinking and driving on the runway.
Airport manager quits after accusations of drinking and driving on runway
In that same meeting, the maintenance manager resigned.
Rob Hightower, the interim airport manager who took over, says the airport just went through a special audit that revealed what he called some “accounting irregularities.”
That’s when office manager Sheryl Tingley resigned.
It’s not clear what role she played with the finances, but Hightower says it was her choice to resign.
This makes her the third employee in two months to leave the airport. | 2022-12-06T04:21:55Z | www.wcia.com | Another staffing shake-up for Vermilion Regional Airport | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/another-staffing-shake-up-for-vermilion-regional-airport/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/another-staffing-shake-up-for-vermilion-regional-airport/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – The numbers are in. The Champaign School District released survey results about two proposals that could uproot elementary students from their current schools.
The district announced it wanted to change the “schools of choice” model in September, and has since faced months of backlash. After many parents spoke out with concerns, people overwhelmingly responded negatively to both options on the table.
“I wasn’t surprised whatsoever by what those results were,” parent Jeff Hoover said. “There’s no widespread support whatsoever for moving kids around among the schools.”
That’s exactly what consulting firm Cooperative Strategies found when they surveyed 2,646 people. One of their proposed scenarios would create “sister schools,” and one would give families “clusters” of schools to choose from, but either idea could send many kids to new schools next year.
“The biggest concern far and away was the disruption,” Hoover said.
Parents have been raising that concern since the firm first brought its proposals to the school board. They’ve said moving kids around could cause social and emotional distress, especially after the pandemic. Superintendent Dr. Shelia Boozer addressed that when the ideas were introduced, saying: “the funny thing is, our kids are probably going to be a bit more resilient about it than we are.”
Results show the majority of people do not support both scenarios, with more than 70% feeling strongly against the sister schools model, and more than half strongly opposing the cluster model. Hoover said sharing the data was a “step in the right direction” for transparency.
“To their credit, Cooperative Strategies released all of the very detailed and lengthy comments that people made as they were submitting their online surveys with their concerns about these two scenarios,” Hoover said.
He also wishes Cooperative Strategies would have started collecting feedback before making their suggestions.
“We’ve spent from September until now in a debate about all of this that we probably wouldn’t have to have been,” he said.
Now, the district is open to a new set of proposals. Unit 4 updated its timeline to make a final decision and is allowing the firm to present alternate scenarios. But, some parents still feel rushed.
“They’re going to give us about a month over the holidays to provide feedback on new scenarios and then maybe vote in January on something?” Hoover said.
Hoover said if the new scenarios are still disruptive, parents will feel just as strongly against them.
Cooperative Strategies also suggested removing the balanced calendar for Barkstall and Kenwood. More than 40% of people do not support that change, but roughly 35% responded with no opinion.
Next Monday, the board will hear a presentation from Cooperative Strategies about the results and new scenarios. Families will have another opportunity to give feedback. The firm will give its final recommendation on January 9, and the board is set to vote on a new model January 23.
District officials were not available to give comment. | 2022-12-06T05:58:15Z | www.wcia.com | Majority oppose proposed changes to Champaign ‘schools of choice,’ survey finds | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/majority-oppose-proposed-changes-to-champaign-schools-of-choice-survey-finds/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/local-news/majority-oppose-proposed-changes-to-champaign-schools-of-choice-survey-finds/ |
Big changes coming to Champaign’s homeless shelters
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — A new shelter deal will give more help to homeless of Champaign County. CU at Home and City of Champaign Township’s agreement will create two 24-hour shelters.
The Township will operate CU at Home’s previous East Washington location as a low barrier shelter, called Strides. A home at an undisclosed location will operate as CU at Home’s mid-barrier shelter. It will serve as a more private living location to help assist those who are ready for the next step of independence.
“So, everybody’s story is different, but whatever their needs are– whatever their goals are, both of these will be in position to help support people who enter their doors on that journey. Whatever that may look like,” said United Way Chief Impact Officer Beverley Baker.
The purchase acquisition will happen on December 1st. Strides will begin its operations on December 12th. | 2022-12-06T12:30:29Z | www.wcia.com | Big changes coming to Champaign’s homeless shelters | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/big-changes-coming-to-champaigns-homeless-shelters/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/big-changes-coming-to-champaigns-homeless-shelters/ |
CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The University of Illinois Police Department is reporting that catalytic converters remain a target for thieves on campus, with several theft reports in recent weeks.
Thieves targeting certain cars for catalytic converters
After a lull in theft on-campus theft reports throughout the summer and fall, U of I Police began to regularly report catalytic convert thefts again starting in November. Twelve catalytic converters were reported as being stolen in that month alone. Nine of these thefts happened on the Urbana side of campus and of those nine, five happened in the Orchard Downs neighborhood. A further three catalytic converts have been reported stolen so far in December.
It can cost anywhere from $300 to over $3,600 to repair the damage done by these thefts.
The catalytic converter thefts on campus are part of a larger, nationwide trend that has been on the rise since 2019. State Farm Insurance reported earlier this year that the amount of catalytic converter theft claims in Illinois more than quadrupled since 2019, and that Illinois ranked third in the nation for catalytic converter theft.
Officials said the converters are targeted because of the precious metals inside of them. While University Police did not specify the makes and models of the cars targeted in recent weeks, car mechanics said Toyota Priuses are a popular target due to their catalytic converters having more precious metals in them.
Police advised that people park their cars in a well-lit or high-traffic spot to deter thieves. People can also buy a device that can protect a catalytic converter from being stolen.
People can tell that their catalytic converter is missing if the car makes a loud noise and if the check engine light comes on. | 2022-12-06T22:11:23Z | www.wcia.com | Catalytic converter thefts continue on U of I campus | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/catalytic-converter-thefts-continue-on-u-of-i-campus/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/catalytic-converter-thefts-continue-on-u-of-i-campus/ |
Bloomington, IN (WCIA)
For those looking for a magical Midwest getaway this holiday season, Bloomington, Indiana is a small Midwestern city serving up all the cozy small town feels with big holiday magic: think charming hometown events, traditional décor, warm comfort food and wine, winter wildlife, beautiful outdoor landscapes, and more.
Here’s why this college-town destination feels like the setting of a Hallmark holiday movie:
Festive Fare and Cozy Cuisine: With over 350+ restaurants, Bloomington is a small city serving up some big, bold flavors with its international dining scene. Fresh, seasonal dining is available year-round, and winter is no exception. Visitors can expect festive fare at restaurants across the city. With artisanal coffee shops, bakeries, and restaurants, there is something delicious to discover. Popular winter bites include a Ginger Molasses Sandwich Cookie or Sweet Potato, Zucchini & Goat Cheese Hand Pie from Two Sticks Bakery, or a Santa-shaped Sugar Cookie or Sugarplum Donut from Rainbow Bakery. For something savory, Big Woods Bloomington’s Holiday Feast Burger, Cranberry Brown Sugar Meatballs is a must try. There’s also the Cajun Meatloaf, Seafood Gumbo, or Pot Roast from Uptown Cafe. Taste of India is another fantastic spot to warm up with cozy flavors — their authentic curry, tikka masala, and vindaloo dishes are some of the best international plates in town.
Making spirits bright: Cardinal Spirits, Bloomington’s only distillery, rolls out a few holiday-themed cocktails each year, this year’s being their Spiked Eggnog, Cider House Yules, and Miss Mint cocktails. Made with craft-distilled liquors, their cocktails are just as beautiful as they are delicious Switchyard Brewing Co. offers a Chocolate Cherry Stout and Winter Wheat, in addition to a few other seasonal releases. Function Brewing offers an Oatmeal Stout, and Lennie’s brings back their Java Porter during the winter months. Don’t miss Upland Brewing Co.’s line of Teddy Bear Kisses brews, featuring Bourbon Barrel, Orange Zest, and Toasted Coconut flavors. The Tap makes their coffee-flavored Midnight Fuel Stout available to the masses each winter as well.
A hidden home away from home for the holidays: For those who need more room than a traditional hotel, and with many still opting for private accommodations like Airbnb and VRBO, Bloomington is home to several unique and under-the-radar vacation rentals like the hidden Red Rabbit Inn, an architecturally designed secluded cabin; the luxe Scholars Inn Keep; The Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center Yurts which offer three fully equipped retreat yurts and several retreat rooms on the second level of the Cultural Center Building. A perfect fit for spiritual retreats or anyone seeking solitude and reflection; plus others.
Winter hikes: The beauty of fallen snow on Southern Indiana’s landscape cannot be understated. If you’re looking to explore Bloomington’s natural wonders firsthand, take a look at some of the area’s best winter hikes at spots like Lower Cascades Park, Griffy Lake Nature Preserve, and the Bloomington Rail Trail. The Bloomington Rail Trail and Clear Creek Trail in Bloomington offer a combined 4.4 miles of cross-country skiing possibilities, but for real adventure strap on your skis and hit the trails at Charles C. Deam Wilderness Area or Morgan-Monroe State Forest. Check out the top 5 winter hikes here.
Here to stay is the new bird. Your chances of seeing wildlife increase significantly in winter since trees have shed their leaves and opened sightlines even in the densest forest. When it comes to bald eagles, there’s no better place than Monroe Lake south of Bloomington, where the majestic birds have staked out a winter home. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources launched its bald eagle restoration efforts at Monroe in 1985 and the species has become the poster child of the DNR’s Nongame & Endangered Wildlife Program.
Seventy-three eaglets were released at Monroe over a five-year period in the late 1980s with a goal of 50 nesting pairs. That threshold was crossed in 2008, prompting the removal of bald eagles from the state’s endangered species list. Today, more than 300 nesting sites are scattered across Indiana, with Monroe as their main hub. Golden eagles, rare in Indiana, are occasional visitors. Read more here.
The best time to snag tickets to the game: Bloomington is well known as being home to one of the top college campuses in the U.S.: Indiana University. IU is also known for its college sports. An insider tip: The winter and holiday season is one of the best times to snag tickets to its popular basketball games. It’s also a great time to pick up souvenirs and holiday gifts for the IU fans in your family. | 2022-12-07T00:30:10Z | www.wcia.com | Visit Bloomington Indiana this holiday season | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/ciliving-tv/ciliving-stories/ciliving/visit-bloomington-indiana-this-holiday-season/ | https://www.wcia.com/ciliving-tv/ciliving-stories/ciliving/visit-bloomington-indiana-this-holiday-season/ |
URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The Urbana School District announced on Tuesday that a 7th grade student at Urbana Middle School passed away earlier in the day while at school.
In an email to parents, Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Ivory-Tatum said the student died from “unknown medical reasons.” She added that the school was placed on a soft lockdown in order to allow first responders to have full access to the school and assess the situation.
Ivory-Tatum said that, in order to give students and staff time to grieve, instruction for Wednesday will be switched to online. | 2022-12-07T00:31:03Z | www.wcia.com | Urbana Middle School student dies | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/urbana-middle-school-student-dies/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/urbana-middle-school-student-dies/ |
Did you know what you wear matters on election day?
DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — We’re less than 24-hours away from the midterms and there are some rules you may have forgotten about. If you’re planning on voting tomorrow, remember to leave your candidate-wear at home.
“They can’t wear anything that advertises who they are voting for. Sometimes we had some people come in and they may have ‘elect somebody’ shirt or ‘elect somebody’ hat or something like that and that is really called electioneering. So actually, have to ask them to turn their shirts inside out or take their hats off,” said Vermilion County Clerk Cathy Jenkins.
She says while violations aren’t common, she stresses that all rules need to be followed by everyone.
Voting starts at 6 AM tomorrow. People can register tomorrow as well. | 2022-12-07T00:51:54Z | www.wcia.com | Did you know what you wear matters on election day? | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/did-you-know-what-you-wear-matters-on-election-day/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/did-you-know-what-you-wear-matters-on-election-day/ |
Mattoon organization bring Christmas cheer to foster kids
MATTOON, Ill. (WCIA) — One woman in central Illinois is answering Christmas wishes for foster kids. Hannah’s Hope Foster Closet in Mattoon is wrapping up its Angel Tree campaign, but donations are still needed.
“So, if we could give them a little bit of extra happiness and comfort then that’s what we want to do,” said Hannah’s Hope Foster Closet founder Jessica Stone.
Every Christmas Hannah’s Hope Foster closet tries to make at least one child feel special. This year, they’re helping 90. Throughout the year, the “starter kit” organization provides items for families with newly placed children
“Usually, a foster child is coming with little to nothing, and we try to help that– help the foster family because they don’t have an hours’ notice or whatever,” said Stone.
Stone said it’s a situation she knows all too well. As a foster parent to four kids, she knows how important this help is for the adults. But during the holiday season, she knows it’s something else that’s important to the children.
“There’s babies to older kids. Every one of them needs love. Everyone needs something to open at Christmas time or a little comfort throughout the year,” added Stone.
And with the angel trees, they get to say exactly what that need is. Tags are hung on each tree instead of ornaments. Every tag is a small wish list for a child in foster care.
“Most of them just want like t-shirts, nail polish, toys or something like that so it’s an easy way to give back to the community,” said store employee Courtney Wilson.
The trees were placed in two businesses and within a week, all tags were collected. The donated Angel tree items will be collected on December tenth. They will be given out as secret Santa gifts during the week of Christmas.
“So, if I could provide comfort to even juts one child, it makes my heart feel good,” said Stone.
Those interested in donating are encouraged to reach out to Hannah’s Hope Foster Closet on Facebook. | 2022-12-07T02:41:20Z | www.wcia.com | Mattoon organization bring Christmas cheer to foster kids | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/mattoon-organization-bring-christmas-cheer-to-foster-kids/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/mattoon-organization-bring-christmas-cheer-to-foster-kids/ |
DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA)– Danville Mayor Rickey Jr. has filed a challenge against one of his opponents in the race for mayor.
Voters will head to the polls in the spring and as that day gets closer, Williams and Jacob Lane are battling it out.
Local election candidates start campaigns
Williams has filed a challenge against Lane, claiming 22 of his petition signatures are invalid.
“No one from the election commission has contacted me to date, to tell me there has been a challenge,” said Jacob Lane.
“If you cannot file simple paperwork, how can you expect to manage a city well,” said Mayor Rickey Williams Jr.
Lane is one of two trying to take Williams’s seat.
“Mayor Williams has no record to run on so he has resorted to an underhanded Chicago tactic like this, it might work in Chicago but it’s not right for Danville politics,”
“He is a political consultant and writer I would certainly believe he otta understands the process better than most people,” said Williams.
Williams claims lane has invalid signatures on his petition to run and has filed a challenge with the election commission.
“The law requires you to have a certain number of valid signatures and unfortunately Mr. Lane did not,” said Williams.
That number is 225. Lane turned in 231. Williams claims out of those signatures, seven people live outside of Danville city limits and 15 were not registered to vote in Danville.
“How would he have that information?” Said Lane.
New mayoral candidate vows to “make Danville great again”
Williams says he used a list of registered voters and looked each person up by name, and if he couldn’t find the person, he verified them with the election commission.
“A former longtime county recorder Barb Young taught me when I first started running for office that it’s important to make sure your paperwork is in order and that also you should always check that of your opponents to make sure that they’ve done everything properly, so that’s just a standard practice that I’ve engaged in ever since I began running for office,” said Williams.
When we asked him if he also used the same practice as his opponent Jackie Vinson, he said yes, and that she had the correct number of valid signatures.
Lane believes all his signatures are also valid.
New mayoral candidate for Danville
“It’s my first go around, I don’t know if all the signatures on the sheet are correct, I thought they were, I thought I asked all the voters the same questions, are you registered to vote in Danville,” said Lane.
He says until he gets confirmation from the election commission that something is wrong with his signatures, he is considering this a small bump in the road and will only continue his campaign.
“It just shows you if you can’t win through the normal process, so he is going to use every underhanded tactic possible to try to get another term,” said Lane.
We reached out to Jackie Vinson, the second candidate vying for the mayor’s seat, about the situation.
“This is a political strategy being utilized by my opponents,” said Vinson.
We called the Danville Election Commission Director Sandy Delhaye. She confirmed she got the objection from Williams. She has called the State Board of Elections. They are investigating Williams’s claims. It could be a few days until we have an answer.
If Williams’s claims that the 22 signatures are not valid is true, that would mean Lane would not have enough signatures to be on the ballot. | 2022-12-07T06:40:57Z | www.wcia.com | Danville mayor files challenge against opponent | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/danville-mayor-files-challenge-against-opponent/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/danville-mayor-files-challenge-against-opponent/ |
TUSCOLA, Ill. (WCIA) – You might come across some elaborate holiday light displays this time of year. But in Tuscola, there’s one house that stands out from the rest. Its 3,000 lights are synchronized to music you can hear from your car, but that’s not the only reason it’s so special.
If you drive past the “Lights on Prairieview,” creator Derek Holmes wants you to think about two families and consider helping them out this holiday season.
Colton Rahn is an Illini fan, a middle schooler, and he’s fighting cancer.
“I think it’s 40 chemo treatments and 28 radiation treatments that he’s having to go through,” Holmes said.
Holmes heard Rahn’s story and found a creative way to help out.
“We’re raising money for them by raising awareness here at our light show,” Holmes said.
“Lights on Prairieview” is a 20-minute holiday show you can experience from your car – with 3,000 synchronized lights. Holmes is asking anyone who enjoys his work to donate to Rahn’s family, and 13-year-old Dilynn Wilson.
“On and off through life, she struggled,” Dilynn’s father, Josh Wilson, said.
Dilynn Wilson has cerebral palsy and recently underwent a life-changing surgery.
“She’ll be able to walk just like you and I once she’s done with therapy,” Josh Wilson said.
But traveling and medical bills aren’t cheap. So, as expenses piled up for the Wilson and Rahn families, their Tuscola neighbors pitched in.
“We’re just very, extremely blessed to live in such a giving community,” Josh Wilson said.
Josh Wilson said all the support from the past few months has lightened the financial burden tremendously. And now, Holmes’ festive fundraiser is already halfway to its goal.
“It was quite the honor, it was a pretty neat light display,” Josh Wilson said.
Holmes plans to expand his light collection every year, and continue sharing it for a good cause.
“It was worth every penny so far, just seeing the kids dance and the outreach and support for Colton and Dilynn,” Holmes said.
And in the spirit of giving, Josh Wilson has one request.
“When you see someone with special needs, just make it a point to go say hi,” he said. “Special needs people are some of the most amazing people that you’ll ever meet.”
Holmes said he’ll probably increase his online fundraiser goal after this one is met. He’ll split the money evenly between both families. If you’d like to pitch in, you can visit “Lights on Prairieview” on Facebook, or the fundraiser page.
You can find these lights on Prairieview Avenue in Tuscola between Ponder Drive and North Prairie Street. The shows start every evening between 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., and they run until about 9-9:30 p.m. When you get there, tune your car radio to 97.1 FM and enjoy the music. | 2022-12-07T06:41:06Z | www.wcia.com | ‘Lights on Prairieview’ share more than holiday cheer | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/lights-on-prairieview-share-more-than-holiday-cheer/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/lights-on-prairieview-share-more-than-holiday-cheer/ |
CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA) — People in the rural areas of Champaign County recently got a glimpse of something unusual flying in the sky.
That something is a helicopter with a large apparatus hanging beneath it. As previously reported, the helicopter’s flights are part of an underground mapping project by the Illinois State Geological Survey to map the Mahomet Aquifer.
After a few weeks of delay, the project and flights started over the weekend. Several viewers sent in video of the helicopter in flight as it traversed the county.
The helicopter will fly over the rural areas of the county only, as the steel buildings of urban areas interfere with the magnetic charge the equipment emits. | 2022-12-07T18:25:58Z | www.wcia.com | Geological project takes flight in Champaign County | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/geological-project-takes-flight-in-champaign-co/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/geological-project-takes-flight-in-champaign-co/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Customers arrived at Everyday Kitchen in Champaign on Wednesday to discover that it had abruptly closed its doors permanently.
The restaurant shared an announcement on Facebook, saying: “Thank you for allowing Everyday Kitchen to serve the Champaign community for the last four years. We regret to inform you that we have permanently closed. We are exceedingly grateful to our team members who embodied our values in pursuit to Do a Little Good Every Day.”
We reached out to Everyday Kitchen and they have no comment on the cause of the closure at this time, but they did note that the closure includes the restaurant, bar, and Miracle Bar experience. They did say, however, that the workspace and kids camp will continue normal activities.
In recent weeks, Everyday Kitchen featured a holiday-themed pop-up cocktail lounge that was part of the Miracle Bar experience. It was the only Miracle Bar location in Illinois.
The restaurant also stated on Facebook that anyone with reservations for the restaurant or Miracle Bar should have received a notification that they have been canceled. | 2022-12-07T20:21:54Z | www.wcia.com | Champaign restaurant abruptly announces closing | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/champaign-restaurant-abruptly-announces-closing/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/champaign-restaurant-abruptly-announces-closing/ |
Charlston shark makes waves. Photo courtesy of Pat Goodwin.
CHARLESTON, Ill. (WCIA) — Charleston is nowhere near an ocean, but that hasn’t stopped one shark from making big waves.
One day in 2011, Pat Goodwin wanted to create something unique, so he built a 16-foot-tall shark out of paper mache and other materials near his home on N. County Road 1200 East. The shark is named Grace, after his neighbor.
“When she passed one day, I asked her daughter if I could name the shark after her mom and she loved the idea,” said Goodwin. “That’s how the name came about.”
Grace spends her days in the pasture for everyone to see and enjoy. People visit and snap photos with the shark, whether Grace is dressed up for the occasion or not.
“It’s different and the only 16-foot shark I know of in Illinois,” said Goodwin. “Folks look forward to the next theme, and if it’s been a few months, they will ask, ‘when are you going to dress Grace?'”
Grace is one photogenic fish, often used for photos with wedding parties, senior pictures, and the Mattoon High School cross-country team. She is popular on Facebook too with over 1,400 followers.
“You can always tell when Grace is in a scavenger hunt when a steady line of cars come by, get a quick picture with her and drive off,” said Goodwin. “I have always built some crazy stuff, but Grace has been a landmark for several years now. She is even on Google maps.”
Goodwin has given everyone who stops by to see Grace a special name: Sharker.
“My favorite moment with Grace is seeing the public having fun with her,” said Goodwin. “I enjoy them stopping by for the pictures and I often offer to take the photo so everyone can get in the picture too.” | 2022-12-07T20:22:19Z | www.wcia.com | Shark makes holiday waves in Charleston | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/shark-makes-holiday-waves-in-charleston/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/shark-makes-holiday-waves-in-charleston/ |
It’s about living.
Transitions philosophy is to empower patients and families by providing the tools and support necessary to embrace.
Transitions offers the highest quality of end of life care, symptom management, and primary care services. We specialize in supporting individuals and families who are facing the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual challenges confronted when dealing with terminal and chronic illnesses. Paramount to our philosophy is to ensure that our patient is experiencing their final transition on their own specified terms — in comfort and with dignity. In our care, our main objective is always to maximize patients’ comfort and quality of life.
For us, whether it is end of life, symptom management or primary care – it is always about living. That is why we provide patients with a comprehensive care plan led by a dedicated interdisciplinary team.
The Circle of Friends Adult Day Center is for adults over the age of 18 who need:
Socialization opportunities with peers
Assistance with daily living tasks
Supervision for safety
Medical Monitoring
Therapy services/exercise
Memory Treatment
Circle of Friends Adult Day Center is for caregivers who need:
Personal time for themselves
Support groups (First and Third Wednesday of the Month from 12-1 pm)
Personal counseling by a geriatric social worker
Community geriatric resource referrals
An alternative to delay institutionalization of a loved one
Flexible scheduling, creating your own full or 1/2 day schedule
Affordable care as the cost for families is less when compared to senior residential facilities | 2022-12-08T00:04:00Z | www.wcia.com | Transitions Care & Circle of Friends Adult Day Center | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/ciliving-tv/transitions-care-circle-of-friends-adult-day-center/ | https://www.wcia.com/ciliving-tv/transitions-care-circle-of-friends-adult-day-center/ |
Champaign, Urbana Fire Departments respond to fire at Abbot Power Plant
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — The Champaign and Urbana Fire Departments responded to a tank fire inside a Abbot Power Plant on Wednesday.
Fire crews reported a small, smoldering fire inside a tank undergoing removal at the 1100 block of S. Oak St. at around 9:30 a.m. They quickly extinguished the fire with a single hose.
The fire departments said the cause of the fire is accidental and was the result of hot work to dismantle the tank.
There were no reported injuries among staff or crew. | 2022-12-08T00:04:29Z | www.wcia.com | Champaign, Urbana Fire Departments respond to fire at Abbot Power Plant | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/champaign-urbana-fire-departments-respond-to-fire-at-abbot-power-plant/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/champaign-urbana-fire-departments-respond-to-fire-at-abbot-power-plant/ |
NEW YORK CITY, Ny. (WCIA) — Illinois men’s basketball are coming off a huge win off the east coast against No. 2 Texas. The Illini came back from being 10 points down in the second half to tie up the game to go to overtime.
With crucial buckets by freshman Jayden Epps, graduate student and Baylor transfer Matthew Mayer led the Illini with 21 points. Mayer hadn’t been making many shots so far this season and he says he was confident they’d start falling soon.
“I said this earlier, but I came in today with the mindset, it wasn’t like I chose to have this mindset, I just stopped caring. I just didn’t care anymore,” Mayer said. “When I made that shot, if I missed it I would’ve kept shooting. I was just really calm today and it felt really good.” | 2022-12-08T00:51:48Z | www.wcia.com | Matthew Mayer helps Illini take down Texas | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/sports/illini/matthew-mayer-helps-illini-take-down-texas/ | https://www.wcia.com/sports/illini/matthew-mayer-helps-illini-take-down-texas/ |
FILE – In this Nov. 19, 2020, file photo, a server carries food for a customer at Ye Olde King’s Head in Santa Monica, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose…
FILE – In this Nov. 19, 2020, file photo, a server carries food for a customer at Ye Olde King’s Head in Santa Monica, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez, File)
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — Small businesses in Illinois will soon get access to more loans thanks to the American Rescue Plan Act.
The federal government announced Wednesday it is giving seven states, including Illinois, an additional $6.3 billion of federal ARPA dollars to support businesses. The Illinois is getting $354.6 million in new funds for small businesses.
“This expanded program offering from the state through SSBCI will enable Illinois to support small businesses across the state, helping them attract more capital investment, expand or launch business operations and support the state’s transition to zero emissions.” Jacob Leibenluft, U.S. Treasury Chief Recovery Officer, said.
Illinois leaders are excited for the investment in its businesses.
“As we emerge from the worst of the pandemic and work to rebuild and grow our economy, the American Rescue Plan is making programs like the State Small Business Credit Initiative possible,” said U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL). “The SSBCI is a proven model to catalyze private investment and help support minority-led small businesses and small businesses in underserved communities that we know often face greater challenges in securing capital through traditional channels.”
The grants will fund three programs and one existing program for Illinois small businesses. These include:
the existing Advantage Illinois Loan Participation Program, which partners with local lending organization to gives low interest loans to businesses
the new Advantage Illinois Loan Guarantee Program to help by guaranteeing a percentage of the loan to business applicants who have past difficulty getting loans
the INVENT Venture Capital Program to invest in business in industries such as agriculture, ag tech, manufacturing, and more
Climate Bank Finance Loan Participation Program, for small businesses in clean energy
Officials from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity believe leveling the playing field is necessary for small businesses to thrive.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our Illinois economy, and we look forward to offering new programs that increase access to capital for Illinois entrepreneurs as they launch and grow their businesses,” DCEO Director Sylvia Garcia said. “With a focus on equity, these programs will help hundreds of Illinois businesses in communities across the state – especially those who have historically encountered barriers to accessing capital.”
Any interested business should apply to the state with this survey for updates on relevant SSBCI programs. | 2022-12-08T01:48:28Z | www.wcia.com | Illinois receives more than $350 million in federal support for small businesses | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/state-news/illinois-receives-more-than-350-million-in-federal-support-for-small-businesses/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/state-news/illinois-receives-more-than-350-million-in-federal-support-for-small-businesses/ |
Decatur couple out on bond while facing child pornography charges
DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) – Decatur police have made two arrests in a case they say was the focus of “dangerous” rumors last year.
The Macon County Sheriff’s Office confirmed a warrant was signed November 30 for Douglas Nichols, 54, and Kelly Nichols, 52. Sergeant Scott Flannery said the couple turned themselves in around 8 a.m. Wednesday, but he could not provide many details outside of what’s included in the jail booking sheet, given it’s Decatur’s investigation.
Decatur Police Chief Shane Brandel said a grand jury issued indictments on the following charges: aggravated criminal sexual assault of a victim under 13, child pornography and criminal sexual abuse involving force for Douglas Nichols, and possession of child pornography film/video/photos for Kelly Nichols.
However, the pair is already out of jail. Within an hour of getting booked, Kelly Nichols posted a $10,000 bond, and Douglas Nichols posted a $15,000 bond.
“A rumor circulating social media regarding police finding children locked in a storage shed is completely false,” then-Deputy Chief Brandel said in a July 2021 news release. He went on to debunk gossip spread about the nature of a sexual assault investigation and the people involved.
It started with a complaint the department received that May “from an individual alleging sexual assault that had occurred over 10 years ago by a subject known to them,” according to the release. That complaint led to what Brandel called a “complex” case involving “significant man-hours” and “serving multiple search warrants at different locations seeking evidence of the allegations.”
More than a year since the initial release, Brandel now confirms the arrests of Douglas and Kelly Nichols are related to this investigation. He referred WCIA to Macon County State’s Attorney Scott Rueter for further details on the charges. Rueter has not yet responded to WCIA’s request for comment.
Decatur Criminal Investigations Lieutenant Scott Rosenbery said the department will not be releasing additional information on the Nichols arrests at this time. | 2022-12-08T05:09:04Z | www.wcia.com | Decatur couple out on bond while facing child pornography charges | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/decatur-couple-out-on-bond-while-facing-child-pornography-charges/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/decatur-couple-out-on-bond-while-facing-child-pornography-charges/ |
Champaign couple performs CPR on their dog to save its life
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — On Sunday morning, Emily Ramey and her boyfriend, Alex Huber, were put in a tough situation when one of their dogs fell down their stairs.
“All we heard was a yelp and him hit the floor and immediately his body seized up a little bit,” Ramey said.
The dog, Oati is only four pounds. They knew they needed to act fast. As they raced to U of I Vet Med, Oati’s heart stopped and so did his breathing. Huber, who’s CPR certified took it upon himself to help the dog.
“Took two little fingers and like pushed on his chest a little bit and then blew into his nose really lightly since he’s so little, he just did a couple little, quick little blows in his nose and he just did that a couple times and he responded pretty quickly,” Ramey said.
She says Oati’s eyes opened and he started breathing again. Oati was admitted overnight and observed for about a day.
As he continues to recover at home, Ramey wants to make sure other pet owners know they can perform CPR on their animals.
She says she’s talked to a lot of people who didn’t know it was an option. We talked with a veterinarian who has performed CPR on animals a few times. Doctor Sally Foote says if you have an emergency with your pet.
“It’s good to always think of the three initials, ABC, airway, breathing, and circulation,” Dr. Foote said.
Foote says one of the first things you can do if you’re concerned about your pet’s breathing is roll their lips over their teeth to check their reaction. Another step would be to elevate their back legs and tap them in between their shoulder blades to dislodge anything that might be blocking their breathing.
She says if you’re not sure where to start you could try this option.
“Take the old fashioned mirror trick which is like you take a compact mirror, stick it right in front of his nose and see if it’s fogging up,” Dr. Foote said.
In the case of small dogs like Oati, Foote says it’s important to not panic and not waste time.
“Because one minute of time of not having air is not really that damaging, it’s the 10 minutes, the 20 minutes, it’s the 30 minutes that really does damage,” Dr. Foote said.
Ramey says if it wasn’t for Huber’s immediate response.
“My boyfriend wouldn’t have performed CPR then Oati wouldn’t probably be with us today,” Ramey said. | 2022-12-08T17:32:07Z | www.wcia.com | Champaign couple performs CPR on their dog to save its life | https://www.wcia.com/news/champaign-couple-performs-cpr-on-their-dog-to-save-its-life/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/champaign-couple-performs-cpr-on-their-dog-to-save-its-life/ |
Photo courtesy of the Illinois Department of Human Services Facebook page
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — As winter rolls into Illinois, the state is increasing its funding for emergency shelters.
The Illinois Department of Human Services announced in a news release Thursday they are funding an extra $5 million in state funds to expand emergency housing ahead of colder weather.
“Shelter is not a privilege—it’s a right,” Governor JB Pritzker said. “With the winter season well underway and snowy days on our horizon, we are investing $5 million to ensure that no Illinoisan goes without the shelter they need to stay warm, safe, and healthy.”
According to IDHS officials, most of the fund will expand existing Emergency and Transitional Housing Programs contracts.
“Addressing this crisis requires a combination of short-term and long-term initiatives, and today’s announcement is an immediate and necessary step to help those experiencing homelessness,” Grace B. Hou, Secretary of the Illinois Department of Human Services, said. “The goal of today’s increase in funding is to expand capacity to serve more households this winter and meet the anticipated demand.”
Several emergency shelters close to the Chicago-area are already full, according to the news release. One advocate said there’s a long-term shortage of 4,000 emergency shelter beds across the state.
“The additional state funding that IDHS is providing will help emergency shelter providers serve additional people at a time when most all of the federal government resources that housed people during the COVID-19 pandemic have been exhausted, but the need for agencies serving people without a home has not lessened,” Bob Palmer, the Policy Director for Housing Action Illinois, said.
IDHS has help for people needing emergency housing on their website. They also advise people looking for emergency shelter to call 1-833-2-FIND-HELP or to text SHELTER to 55-2020. | 2022-12-08T22:54:55Z | www.wcia.com | IDHS announces funding for emergency shelters | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/idhs-announces-funding-for-emergency-shelters/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/idhs-announces-funding-for-emergency-shelters/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — Senator Scott Bennett (D-Chicago) has been hospitalized.
A spokesperson with his office confirmed the Champaign senator is at Carle Hospital Thursday but did not provide any details on why he is in the hospital or his condition.
The former Assistant State’s Attorney for Champaign County has represented Champaign and Vermillion counties in the General Assembly since January 2015. He made state headlines earlier this year for filing an amendment to the SAFE-T Act on behalf of several state’s attorneys.
Bennett’s spokesperson said his wife Stacy is thanking everyone for their signs of support.
Governor J.B. Pritzker sent out a statement wishing the best for his recovery.
“Scott Bennett is genuine, kind and dedicated to serving his constituents. MK and I are keeping Scott, Stacy and his entire family and community in our prayers.” | 2022-12-08T22:55:28Z | www.wcia.com | Sen. Scott Bennett receiving hospital care | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/sen-scott-bennett-receiving-hospital-care/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/sen-scott-bennett-receiving-hospital-care/ |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — The Champaign Police Department is reminding people to be vigilant this holiday season when it comes to the mail.
Champaign Police said that with a growing number of items being delivered by the U.S. Postal Service and other shipping companies, postal officials shared several tips and measures that people can take to reduce the risk of mail theft and identity projection. Champaign Police shared said tips on Thursday:
Immediately remove mail from the mailbox after delivery, especially when expecting checks, credit cards or other negotiable items
Be home to receive tracked packages or make arrangements for oversized packages to be delivered out of sight to reduce their visibility
Contact the issuing party as soon as possible if a check or other valuable fails to arrive
Sign up for USPS Informed Delivery to have a better idea of what mail to expect to be delivered each day
Drop outgoing mail into a USPS collection box prior to the last daily pickup time listed on the box. Otherwise, mail it inside the Post Office.
Monitor financial accounts and credit profiles for fraudulent activity, even if one is not a victim of mail theft.
Place credit holds or freezes with the three major credit bureaus – Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax – to avoid identity theft through stolen mail
People who believe they are the victim of mail theft this holiday season should file a report through Champaign Police online or by calling 217-3338911. They are also encouraged to file a report with the Postal Inspection Service at 877-867-2455 and to closely monitor financial accounts and credit profiles for any fraudulent activity. | 2022-12-09T03:24:42Z | www.wcia.com | Champaign Police: Beware of mail theft | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/champaign-police-beware-of-mail-theft/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/champaign-police-beware-of-mail-theft/ |
CENTRAL ILLINOIS (WCIA) — Over $22,000 and a truckload of toys were donated during the annual Toys for Tots drive on Thursday.
Many guests joined our team today for the toy drive, including “Star Wars” stormtroopers, Miss Woolly Worm Festival 2022 Queen Andrea Patton, Navy ROTC, Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, and Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority.
“The day was absolutely fantastic,” said Caesar Perez, director of Toys for Tots for more than 20 years. “I’m grateful for everything that happened today, and for everyone who helped make this happen.” | 2022-12-09T03:25:00Z | www.wcia.com | Over $22,000, truckload of toys donated to Toys for Tots | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/over-22000-truckload-of-toys-donated-to-toys-for-tots/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/over-22000-truckload-of-toys-donated-to-toys-for-tots/ |
CWLP said power has been restored to the affected area. Any home or business owner still experiencing trouble should call CWLP Dispatch at 217-789-2121 to report the issue.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — A power outage in Springfield has left approximately 1,200 people without power, City Water Light and Power said.
The outage is happening on the city’s northwest side and is affecting customers served by the Amos substation. The affected area is bordered by Camp Lincoln Road to the north, First Street to the west, Miller Street to the south and Bruns Lane to the west.
A CWLP spokesperson said the outage was due to faulty switches at the substation. Crews will be working to repair those switches with power estimated to be restored around 1:30 p.m.
Until that time, drivers are advised to consider avoiding the area as traffic lights could be affected. CWLP reminded that flashing traffic lights should be treated as a stop sign. | 2022-12-09T21:00:15Z | www.wcia.com | CWLP: Power restored after brief outage | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/cwlp-1200-springfield-customers-without-power/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/cwlp-1200-springfield-customers-without-power/ |
Digital generated image of Covid-19 cell surrounded by plexus structured shell on black background. (File: Getty)
CENTRAL ILLINOIS (WCIA) — Health experts are saying that COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses are on the rise throughout Central Illinois this holiday season, leading to changes in mask recommendations for Champaign County.
The CDC and IDPH listed 74 of Illinois’ 102 counties as having an elevated level of COVID-19 as of Thursday, 29 of which are listed as having a high level; this number is up from 12 a week ago. The IDPH said there are 21,400 new confirmed and probable cases of COVID in the state since Dec. 2, with 56 new deaths attributed to the disease.
The IDPH said the surge correlates with the Thanksgiving holiday and that it was anticipated.
Vohra said those steps include testing, especially if visiting someone at risk for severe illness, good hand hygiene, staying home and seeking treatment if sick and getting up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations.
“A high-quality mask or respirator is also recommended and will protect you from COVID-19, the flu and other respiratory viruses,” Vohra added. “Our hope is for Illinoisians across our state to have a happy and healthy holiday season.”
Champaign County is among the counties listed as having a high community level and a high level of transmission. CUPHD officials repeated several of Vohra’s suggestions on Facebook, recommending that masks be worn in public indoors (including in K-12 schools and other indoor community settings) regardless of vaccination status. Vermilion, Edgar, Christian, Logan and Sangamon Counties are also listed as having a high level.
Coles, DeWitt, Douglas, Ford, Iroquois, Macon, McLean, Piatt and Shelby counties are listed as having a medium level of COVID while Livingston, Moultrie and Effingham County are still listed as having a low level of COVID. | 2022-12-09T22:09:37Z | www.wcia.com | Champaign County rated ‘high’ COVID risk as respiratory viruses rise | WCIA.com | https://www.wcia.com/news/health-news/champaign-county-rated-high-covid-risk-as-respiratory-viruses-rise/ | https://www.wcia.com/news/health-news/champaign-county-rated-high-covid-risk-as-respiratory-viruses-rise/ |
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