Frequencies of Freedom: The New Sound of Black Musical Expression
This year two groups not only graced the stage with their presence but also sat down with Dialogue to use their voices and amplify the message of their music.
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217 Today: ‘Predictor’ brings the story of Meg Crane, inventor of the home pregnancy test, to Station Theatre in Urbana
Friday, September 19, 2025 Today’s headlines: Police have arrested a 17-year-old student who threatened to “shoot up” Urbana High School. Portions of streets near Urbana High School will be briefly closed this afternoon for the school’s Homecoming Parade. Illinois has joined a growing list of states that are issuing their own vaccination guidelines. Illinois football…
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217 Today: WILL Call: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Sep. 18 – Sep. 21
In today’s deep dive, we’ll learn about what is coming to the Central Illinois area in the world of arts, culture and entertainment.
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217 Today: International student enrollment increases at University of Illinois despite Trump policies
In today’s deep dive, enrollment is up a bit this fall at Northern Illinois University.
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217 Today: Politicians across party lines pay tribute to former Governor Jim Edgar, who died Sunday
In today’s deep dive, we’re remembering former Illinois Gov. Jim Edgar, who died Sunday at age 79. A lifelong Republican from Charleston who later disagreed with his party over Donald Trump.
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217 Today: Dean Clarence Shelley memorialized in new honorary street sign
the late Clarence Shelley was known for building community between faculty and students at the University of Illinois.
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Rantoul Mayor Samuel Hall talks first 100 days, engaging with youth, supporting economic development
Rantoul Mayor Samuel Hall took office more than 100 days ago. He defeated the former incumbent, Chuck Smith, by a margin of 34 votes during the April 1 election.
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The Power and Complexity of African American Vernacular English
We explore African American Vernacular English (AAVE), featuring linguistics expert Dr. Sharese King from the University of Chicago.
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217 Today: Thinking of biking to work? These Champaign County residents shared why they did.
In today’s deep dive, Bike to Work Day was this week in Champaign County. We’ll bring you an audio postcard from three cyclists sharing why they ride their bikes and what would make it easier to go for a bike ride in the area.
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217 Today: WILL Call: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Sep. 11 – Sep. 14
In today’s deep dive, we’ll learn about what is coming to the Central Illinois area in the world of arts, culture and entertainment.
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217 Today: When will beef prices drop? We asked a rancher, a butcher and an economist
In today’s deep dive, beef is as expensive as it’s ever been, thanks to the high cost of cattle. Retailers of all sizes have upped their prices on steak and hamburger.
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217 Today: Surfing in America’s heartland? You can catch waves even if you’re far from the ocean
In today’s deep dive, surfing isn’t just an ocean sport anymore. Landlocked residents from Wisconsin to central Texas are also catching waves.
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217 Today: What to know about algal blooms after Mattoon’s recent water crisis
In today’s deep dive, an algal bloom in Mattoon’s water reservoirs forced the city to place a do-not-drink order in place this earlier this summer.
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Creating Community: BIPOC Artists Share Their Stories Around the Block
In this episode of Dialogue, we explore the vibrant local art scene through the lens of Parkland College’s Giertz Gallery exhibition “Around the Block: Artists from Our Neighborhood.” Now in its fifth year, this juried community exhibition showcases 84 regional artists and celebrates the diverse creative voices that call Champaign-Urbana home. Through intimate conversations at…
