217 Today: WILL Call: What’s Happening in Champaign – Urbana Jan. 8 – Jan. 11
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: Five candidates seeking to represent central Illinois in Congress, including incumbent Nikki Budzinski
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 Today’s headlines: The Trump administration says it’s withholding social safety net money from five states, including Illinois. US Senator Tammy Duckworth of Illinois compares the US invasion of the Middle East to the recent actions taken in Venezuela. Pregnancy-related deaths in Illinois have become more prevalent over the past decade. In…
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217 Today: How a preservation project is saving wetlands in the Midwest
In today’s deep dive, a wetland preservation project continues, despite the shrinking number of wetlands in the Midwest.
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217 Today: How a new law threatens the hemp industry
In today’s deep dive, a new law threatens to place strict regulations in place for the hemp industry, which could impact hemp producers and farmers.
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217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Dec. 25 – Dec. 28
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: From ‘Grinchmas’ to chestnut roasts, these rural towns make the holidays central to their economy
In today’s deep dive, some rural towns are known for their holiday festivities. Tourist dollars are a big part of their local economy but getting people to town each year means new events.
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217 Today: Ag sector alarm bells are going off
In today’s deep dive, will a new aid package for farmers go far enough? In a year when tariffs have affected sales of Illinois soybeans, there are major warning signs.
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217 Today: More than a holiday tradition, reindeer are a way of life at the Hardy ranch in Rantoul
In today’s deep dive, what’s the best part of meeting reindeer in real life? According to 10-year-old Bear Taylor — the reindeer kisses.
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217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Dec. 18 – Dec. 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: New Illinois Farm Bureau president wants to restore communication and credibility for the venerable organization
In today’s deep dive, the Illinois Farm Bureau is ushering in a new leadership, we’ll hear more from Philip Nelson who won the election.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Dec. 11 – Dec. 14
In today’s deep dive, we’ll hear what’s coming to the central Illinois area in the world of arts, culture, and entertainment.
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217 Today: Improved natural gas storage fields will save customers money, Ameren Illinois says
In today’s deep dive, Cold temperatures have already hit the St. Louis region. With that will come increased use of natural gas to heat homes. Ameren Illinois says changes to their local gas storage fields will help save customers money.
