By HANNAH MEISEL Capitol News Illinois hmeisel@capitolnewsillinois.com As another of Illinois’ border states is set to enact a near-total abortion ban this week, Gov. JB Pritzker on Monday announced several new programs to help address the influx of out-of-state abortion seekers the state has seen in the 13 months since […]
Author: dani
Registration for CCFPD’s Pedal the Preserves now open
Get ready for an exciting two-day cycling adventure amidst the picturesque landscapes of Champaign County Forest Preserve! The much-awaited Pedal the Preserves event is set to take place on August 19th and 20th, 2023, offering participants the opportunity to explore the beautiful Kickapoo Rail Trail, Homer Lake Forest Preserve, and […]
State driver services facilities to require appointments in more than 40 locations
By ANDREW ADAMS Capitol News Illinois aadams@capitolnewsillinois.com Drivers who need to renew their license at a secretary of state facility will likely have to make an appointment starting this fall. Starting Sept. 1, 44 driver services facilities in medium- to large-sized cities around the state will require appointments for driver […]
A look at student-data issues as the 2023-24 school year approaches
By Dani Tietz Prospects for the 2023–24 school year are on the horizon. With just a month of summer vacation remaining, parents throughout Champaign and Vermilion counties are registering their children for school. In a tradition that used to take place with paper, pencil, and a checkbook at each school, […]
Turning Stones to entertain at St. Joseph Block Party and Ogden Fest
Turning Stones will bring their unique sound to the St. Joseph Block Party on July 29 and Ogden Fest on August 26. This marks the first time the band has played either event, and lead singer Russell Hance is excited to make some new fans. “We are very honored and […]
Perseids Meteor Shower Viewing Event at Forest Glen
The Vermilion County Conservation District is offering an opportunity to see the Perseids Meteor Shower at Forest Glen Preserve, August 12, 9 p.m. This shower offers one of the best chances to see meteors shooting across the sky. Join Naturalist Brenna Karcher at Meadowlark Shelter for stories of constellations. A […]
Celebrating 75 Years of CCPFD: Sangamon River Forest Preserve
How many people does it take to hug a 200-year-old tree? This question (and so many more) can be answered at the Champaign County Forest Preserve’s Sangamon River Forest Preserve. Located north of Mahomet on County Rd 600 E adjacent to a pasture with roaming cows, the 106-acre park has […]
Commentary: Gratitude is The Way!
By Zainab Susi It’s hard to believe that we’re halfway through 2023 already. We still have half of the year to go. If you had made goals or new year resolutions early on that you didn’t keep – you can start anytime you want! Don’t be discouraged, you still have […]
Cash bail will end in Illinois as justices rule SAFE-T Act provisions constitutional
By JERRY NOWICKI Capitol News Illinois jnowicki@capitolnewsillinois.com SPRINGFIELD – A landmark criminal justice reform that eliminates cash bail in Illinois is constitutional, the state’s Supreme Court ruled Tuesday, paving the way for the change to take effect Sept. 18. The 5-2 decision – handed down on partisan lines – means […]
Celebrating 75 Years of CCPFD: Riverbend Forest Preserve
Although East Central Illinois is covered with acres upon acres of crops, the forests have hidden magic, especially those wooded areas owned and managed by the Champaign County Forest Preserve. The Riverbend Forest Preserve south of Mahomet is no exception. Land once mined for sand and gravel has left two […]