Champaign County officials say they can’t ban data centers. But residents want tighter restrictions
A ban on large data center development could expose the county to a lawsuit from a developer, according to Champaign County officials. A proposed ordinance offers guardrails for new centers, but some feel it’s not strict enough.
America @ 250: Diane Lathrop asks what went wrong, and how we keep it from happening again.
Mattoon resident Diane Lathrop was born and raised in east-central Illinois. She was valedictorian of the Mattoon Senior High School class of 1971. She attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and, in 2023, retired after more than 40 years in the financial services industry.
GOP congressional candidate Jeff Wilson on tariffs, energy production, and healthcare
Jeff Wilson, a Republican and former member of the Champaign County Board, is making a bid to flip Illinois’ 13th congressional district. He makes his case on The 21st Show.
American ranchers are irked by Trump’s efforts to bring down beef prices: ‘This is a mistake’
The Trump administration has tried to lower beef prices for months, but demand, drought and a parasite have foiled its efforts.
Champaign County Clerk candidates disagree on Trump’s SAVE Act, decline to discuss federal charges
Champaign County’s incumbent clerk, Democrat Aaron Ammons, faces a challenge from Republican Alan Anderson. During a candidate forum hosted by IPM, the two discussed election administration and local challenges. They declined to comment on allegations against Ammons in a federal indictment.
Squeezed by a tough economy, many farmers are relying on decades-old machinery
More farmers are opting to repair old tractors, combines and other machinery instead of buying new upgrades. A tough farm economy and historically-high equipment prices are at least partly to blame.
Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski discusses her record, makes case for third term
Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski sat down with the 21st Show’s Brian Mackey to discuss her accomplishments so far and her position on many current issues while seeking another tern.
Illinois attorney general joins suit against Postal Service over mail voting rules
The case follows Supreme Court ruling allowing Trump administration to proceed with restrictions.
8 taken to hospital after house explosion west of Bloomington
The house was burned to the ground in the explosion and resulting fire, according to a WGLT reporter at the scene.
Krannert Center for the Performing Arts upcoming season celebrates community
The 2026-2027 season at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts includes musical collaborations, an illusionist, circus acts and more.
Yes, there’s pesticide on your fruits and veggies. Here’s what scientists say you should do
Hundreds of pesticides are legal, but that doesn’t mean that their impacts on health are fully understood. Cleaning produce before eating it reduces your exposure.
Urbana City Council’s Ward 6 seat open after incumbent member steps down
Southeast Urbana’s incumbent council member Grace Wilken resigned earlier this week. Residents of Ward 6 can apply by September 11 to be appointed to Wilken’s former seat.
WILL Call: What’s Happening in Central Illinois August 27 – 30
Back-to-school events, a family resource fair, museum exhibitions, live music and more are coming to central Illinois this weekend.
Can the WPBL be a long-term success? Yes – if people are patient, experts say
Since Aug.1, the Women’s Pro Baseball League has been playing its inaugural season in Springfield. It’s the fifth league of its kind in U.S. history. Its players hope there is no need for a sixth.
Dolly Parton, one of country music’s most singular performers, has died at age 80
The artist’s death was confirmed in a statement from her representatives, as well as in a video posted to social media from her nephew Bryan Seaver.
University of Illinois classes begin ‘with great energy’
Classes began Monday at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
America @ 250: Callie McFarland asks what America wants to be when it grows up
Callie McFarland has lived in Monticello since 2004. She’s a mother of two, a farmer’s wife and a small business owner. Since 2008, she’s been the director of community and economic development for the city of Monticello.
Data center energy consumption raises concerns about long-term costs and reliability
Illinois is home to more than 240 data centers.
