Rivian ups its game on hands-free driving and AI
Electric automaker Rivian has unveiled new technology it says will put it at the forefront of autonomous vehicles.
217 Today: With a federal tax credit ending early, installing home solar is about to get more expensive
In today’s deep dive, a federal incentive for homeowner solar is rapidly expiring. Congress voted this summer to eliminate the tax credit at the end of this year. But people in the solar industry remain optimistic.
With a federal tax credit ending early, installing home solar is about to get more expensive
The massive tax and spending law signed in July halts a federal incentive for residential solar, and homeowners and installers are hurrying to complete projects before the end of the year. Industry experts say there are other ways to cut costs like “group buys.”
Mike White, former Cal, Illinois and Raiders coach, dies at 89
White had a successful career coaching the Illini to the Rose Bowl following the 1983 season.
Declining attendance & rising maintenance costs bring an end to a historic church building in Champaign
With churches no longer playing as central a role in many people’s lives, more congregations are faced with hard decisions regarding their historic buildings.
Hollywood pays tribute to Rob Reiner; son Nick Reiner arrested
Beyond entertainment, Reiner was also active in politics, frequently supporting liberal causes and speaking out on social issues. President Donald Trump disparaged Reiner in a post on Truth Social on Monday morning.
Gunman remains at large two days after deadly shooting at Brown University
The outbreak of violence at the Ivy League school shocked the community, just days before students and faculty were preparing to leave for winter break.
217 Today: Declining attendance & rising maintenance costs bring an end to a historic church building in Champaign
In today’s deep dive, as church attendance declines in the U.S., some congregations are finding it difficult to maintain their historic buildings.
Weather related closings, delays and e-learning days for Monday, December 15
Dangerous cold persists through Sunday night across central IL, with wind chills as cold as 12 to 22 degrees below zero at times north of I-70.
Dangerous cold continues in east central Illinois, Blowing snow is expected on Monday
Areas of blowing and drifting snow are possible late tonight into early Monday afternoon.
Affable comedy acting legend Dick Van Dyke turns 100 years old
Van Dyke was born in West Plains, Missouri, in 1925, and grew up “the class clown” in Danville, Illinois, while admiring and imitating the silent film comedians.
Jamarques Lawrence’s buzzer-beater gives No. 23 Nebraska an 83-80 win over No. 13 Illinois
CHAMPAIGN — Jamarques Lawrence hit a 3-point shot with less than a second remaining Saturday to give No. 23 Nebraska
At least 2 killed and 8 hurt in shooting at Brown University in Rhode Island
The Ivy League school in Providence, Rhode Island, issued an active shooter alert and urged students and staff to take shelter Saturday, the second day of final exams.
Weather related closings for Saturday, December 13
The National Weather Service forecasted 2 to 6 inches of snow north of I-70 in central Illinois.
217 Today: Advocates for Aging Care pushes for solutions as Champaign County faces skilled nursing bed shortage
In today’s deep dive, Champaign County has one of the worst skilled nursing care shortages in the state. It means sometimes, people have to drive hours to see their loved ones.
New laws: Gun storage, police background check changes take effect in 2026
Gun owners in Illinois must take new steps in 2026 to secure their firearms in their homes, particularly when children are present.
Advocates for Aging Care pushes for solutions as Champaign County faces skilled nursing bed shortage
Champaign County has one of the worst skilled nursing care shortages in the state. It means people often have to drive hours to see their loved ones. A local advocacy group is working to address the shortage.
Competing health care plans fail in the Senate as ACA premium hikes loom
Both bills needed 60 votes to advance, but neither succeeded.
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