217 Today: Maysa brings her dulcet voice to Champaign-Urbana to help Illinois Soul celebrate its anniversary
Friday, January 30, 2026
Today’s headlines:
- A former sheriff’s deputy in Sangamon County has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for fatally shooting Sonya Massey.
- As the 2026 session of the Illinois General Assembly takes shape, State Senator Paul Faraci says HIS focus is on shielding students and educators from budget cuts.
- A Republican running for Governor in Illinois’ primary election says he wants to bring “fiscal reality” to the state’s finances.
In today’s deep dive, Maysa brings her dulcet voice to Champaign-Urbana to help Illinois Soul celebrate its anniversary.
217 Today is produced by Giuliana Means. Reporting today contributed by The Associated Press, Abisola Dahunsi, Arjun Thakkar, and Kimberly Schofield.
217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Jan. 29 – Feb. 1
Thursday, January 29, 2026
Today’s headlines:
- Multiple Champaign school board members want windows at Booker T. Washington STEM Academy to get a bulletproof covering.
- United Airlines is returning to Willard Airport … with the promise of expanded service.
- The state of Illinois is teaming up with a Chicago-based charity to operate the first statewide abortion fund.
- Classes and lunches were back to normal at Rantoul’s JW Eater Junior High School on Wednesday after a slow gas leak occurred on Tuesday.
In today’s deep dive, What’s Happening in Central Illinois Jan. 29 – Feb. 1.
217 Today is produced by Giuliana Means. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Kulsoom Khan, Kimberly Schofield, Adelyn Miu, Mawa Iqbal, and Reginald Hardwick.
217 Today: A look at the first debate between the three Illinois Democrats vying to become the state’s next U.S. senator
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
Today’s headlines:
- A Democrat running for Illinois’ open U.S. Senate seat says he wants to invest in rural communities.
- New bipartisan legislation would modernize how the U.S. Department of Agriculture doles out loans to farmers.
- Champaign County is looking for election judges ahead of Illinois’ primary election on March 17.
- The Illinois-based American Academy of Pediatrics released its 2026 childhood and adolescent vaccine schedule on Monday, and it advises kids to get all routine vaccines.
In today’s deep dive, a look at the first face-to-face debate between the three Illinois Democrats vying to become the state’s next U.S. senator that happened earlier this week.
217 Today is produced by Giuliana Means. Reporting today contributed by Christine Herman, Arjun Thakkar, Will Bauer, Mawa Iqbal and Minju Park.
217 Today: Cow cuddles and farm-churned ice cream are helping Midwest dairies thrive despite low milk prices
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Today’s headlines:
- The Cold Weather Advisory remains in place until noon today.
- Federal immigration officers shot and killed a 37-year-old man in Minneapolis Saturday, drawing hundreds of protesters in a city already shaken by another fatal shooting weeks earlier.
- Firefighters are looking for the cause of a fire at a 3-story apartment building in West Champaign.
- Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton came out swinging at last night’s debate in the Democratic race for the U.S. Senate.
In today’s deep dive, dairy farms are opening new side businesses, such as cow cuddling and ice cream churning. But those opportunities of joy come amid a volatile milk market.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Tadeo Ruiz Sandoval, Katie O’Connell and Mariah Woelfe.
217 Today: The nation’s wheat belt has been wavering, but hybrid science may help bring it back
Monday, January 26, 2026
Today’s headlines:
- Illinoisans are digging out after a nationwide winter storm dumped several inches of snow throughout the state.
- Due to the snow and bitterly cold temperatures, some school districts are closed or switching to e-learning days.
- Three Democratic front runners in Illinois’ U.S. Senate races are for the first time, facing off in a debate tonight.
- A group of women in Champaign want to develop African American parent leadership in the Unit 4 school district.
In today’s deep dive, wheat isn’t grown as much as it used to be across the Great Plains. We’ll hear about an effort to hybridize wheat.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Mawa Iqbal, Emily Hays and Calen Moore.
217 Today: Illinois Public Media is helping launch a new teen video podcast. Here’s how to sign up.
Friday, January 23, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- A cold weather advisory is in effect today, and a winter storm warning goes into effect Saturday and Sunday for Champaign County and surrounding portions of East Central Illinois.
- The Urbana fire department helped rescue six people from a house fire early this morning.
- A Republican running for Illinois’ open U.S. Senate seat this year, thinks the United States should have control of Greenland, but without using its military.
- A portion of John Street in Champaign is designated honorary Dean Clarence Shelley way.
In today’s deep dive, Illinois Public Media is launching a new video podcast with local teens talking about issues that matter to them, and we want your child to be involved.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Andrew Pritchard, Arjun Thakkar and Adrian Reetz.
217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Jan. 22 – Jan. 25
Thursday, January 22, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- As lawmakers return to Springfield for their 2026 session, they could consider giving ride share drivers the ability to form a union.
- The number 11-ranked Fighting Illini Men’s Basketball team beat Maryland 89-to-70 last night at home at State Farm Center.
- A bachelor’s degree is the most promising path for low-income students to a good job, according to new research from the University of Chicago and University of Illinois.
- A portion of Clark Street between Prairie and Elm Streets in Champaign is designated Honorary Harry Breen Way.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Capitol News Illinois, Jonathan Mathew, Elissa Eaton, Lisa Kurian, Kimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: Here are the books Illinois students loved the most in 2025
Wednesday, January 21, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Last night, over 100 people gathered to protest against ICE in downtown Champaign as part of a nationwide walkout on the anniversary of Trump’s inauguration.
- Police are investigating a shooting that damaged a school building in Champaign.
- The Illinois House of Representatives came back to Springfield yesterday to start off this year’s legislative session.
- Between Market and Walnut Streets in Champaign, Taylor Street is named Honorary Mark Rubel Way.
In today’s deep dive, every year, Illinois students vote on the Readers’ Choice Awards for the books they loved the most.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Peter Medlin, Diana Zhang, Elissa Eaton, Reginald Hardwick and Arjun Thakkar.
217 Today: One man’s journey from living in poverty in Southern Illinois to prison to a PhD
Tuesday, January 20, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- On Armory Avenue in Champaign – between Second and Third Street – a sign designates the road as Honorary Chabad Way.
- A Democratic state senator has filed a measure to prohibit ICE agents from becoming police officers in Illinois.
- It’s hard for people to get into the University of Illinois with a prior conviction.
- Danville’s NAACP Branch #3009 led a march in honor of Martin Luther King Jr., despite a morning wind chill of negative ten degrees.
In today’s deep dive, one man is the first to make the leap from a University of Illinois college-in-prison program to a U of I degree.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Sam Rink and Alex Degman.
217 Today: New exhibit showcases Illinois’ role in Underground Railroad
Friday, January 16, 2026
Today’s Headlines:
- Bitter cold is coming to central Illinois this weekend.
- The Urbana Police Department is investigating a fatal shooting that occurred early this morning.
- The University of Illinois Board of Trustees voted to raise tuition at all three of its universities.
- A street in Champaign honors a man who devoted his life to helping young people in Champaign-Urbana.
- The Trump administration reversed the decision to terminate hundreds of federal grants to support mental health and substance use programs.
In today’s deep dive, a new exhibit at the Urbana Free Library highlights Illinois’ involvement in the Underground Railroad.
217 Today is produced by Kimberly Schofield. Reporting today contributed by Andrew Pritchard, Emily Hays, Peter Medlin, Anna Koh, and Kimberly Schofield.
217 Today: WILL CALL: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Jan. 15 – Jan. 18
Thursday, January 15, 2026
Today’s headlines:
- Republican lawmakers in Illinois respond to a new bill that will reform the state’s power grid.
- IPM Meteorologist Andrew Pritchard explains what a snow squall is and why drivers should pay attention to these new warnings.
- A stretch of Fourth Street in Champaign recognizes central Illinois’ first Black-owned radio station.
In today’s deep dive, a look at the arts, culture and entertainment coming to the central Illinois area this weekend.
217 Today is produced by Kimberly Schofield. Reporting today contributed by Arjun Thakker, Andrew Pritchard, Adelyn Mui, and Kimberly Schofield.
217 Today: Local film competition challenges participants to make a movie in 48 hours
Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Today’s Headlines:
- The state Supreme Court heard arguments on whether Illinois employees should be paid for work-related activities off the clock.
- A Democrat running for US Senate in Illinois wants to abolish Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
- A street on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus is named after one of the most influential figures in Jewish higher education.
In today’s deep dive, Champaign Movie Makers is hosting their annual 48 Hour Film Competition this weekend, where participants have just two days to make a movie.
217 Today is produced by Kimberly Schofield. Reporting today contributed by Mawa Iqbal, Reginald Hardwick, Layli Nazarova, and Kimberly Schofield.
217 Today: Judge grants temporary restraining order to block the Trump Administration’s freeze on federal funding
Tuesday, January 13, 2026
Today’s headlines:
- Supreme Court Justice Mary Jane Theis will retire at the end of January.
- Thousands of high schools across the country continue to support Native American mascots.
- Honorary Alison Krauss Way recognizes the Grammy Award-winning artist’s ties to Champaign.
In today’s deep dive, Illinois and four other Democratic-led states have filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration to block a freeze on federal funding for childcare and family services. A judge has granted a temporary restraining order blocking immediate implementation of the freeze.
217 Today is produced by Kimberly Schofield. Reporting today contributed by Capitol News Illinois, Arjun Thakker, A. Oishii Basu, and Charlie Schlenker.
217 Today: A conversation with the president of the University of Illinois System about why he is stepping down next year
Monday, January 12, 2026
Today’s headlines:
- The Illinois Attorney General is pushing back against the latest funding freeze.
- Champaign-Urbana residents gathered to protest the recent shootings by federal immigration officers.
- Memories of the man behind Honorary Brandon Hardway Drive.
In today’s deep dive, the president of the University of Illinois System is stepping down once his contract expires next year. We’ll bring you a conversation with Tim Killeen about why he’s leaving and his plans for the future.
217 Today is produced by Kimberly Schofield. Reporting today contributed by Mawa Iqbal, Emily Hays, and Giuliana Means.
217 Today: What made 2025 a hard time to be a farmer and what’s ahead for some farmers in the central US
Friday, January 9, 2026
Today’s headlines:
- Cleanup is under way in central Illinois after severe storms.
- The president of the University of Illinois System is stepping down next year.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker comments on the fatal shooting in Minnesota by ICE agents.
- A new Illinois law aims to tackle rising utility costs.
In today’s deep dive, some farmers ended 2025 unsure how they’ll pay their bills. We’ll hear from farmers around the central US about what made 2025 such a tough year and what’s ahead.
217 Today is produced by Kimberly Schofield. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Emily Hays, Mawa Iqbal, and Hope Kirwan.
217 Today: WILL Call: What’s Happening in Champaign – Urbana Jan. 8 – Jan. 11
Thursday, January 8, 2026
Today’s headlines:
- An Illinois congresswoman reacts to the killing of a Minneapolis driver by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer.
- The City of Champaign Township Board has appointed a new township supervisor.
- An Urbana City Council member is resigning next month due to moving to a different ward.
- Champaign County is seeing an uptick in flu cases amid a national outbreak.
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.
217 Today is produced by Kimberly Schofield. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Arjun Thakker, Kulsoom Khan, and Kimberly Schofield.
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 today’s deep dive, five candidates are seeking to represent central Illinois in Congress, including incumbent Nikki Budzinski.
217 Today is produced by Kimberly Schofield. Reporting today contributed by Ed Donahue, Will Bauer, Mawa Iqbal, and David Pierce.
217 Today: How a preservation project is saving wetlands in the Midwest
Tuesday, January 6, 2026
Today’s headlines:
- Some Illinois lawmakers are calling for accountability after the Trump administration’s arrest of deposed Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed new legislation that would create sales tax and revenue bonds.
- Illinois’ economy continued to expand in 2025.
- Illinois State lost to Montana State in the FCS championship in overtime.
In today’s deep dive, a wetland preservation project continues, despite the shrinking number of wetlands in the Midwest.
217 Today is produced by Kimberly Schofield. Reporting today contributed by Marie Mendoza, Will Bauer, Arjun Thakker, Eric Stock, and Rich Egger.
217 Today: How a new law threatens the hemp industry
Monday, January 5, 2026
Today’s headlines:
- Illinois political leaders react to US military operations in Venezuela.
- Urbana-based Carle Health has placed temporary visitor restrictions to limit the spread of respiratory illness.
- A new Illinois law will force police to start looking for missing people sooner.
- A look at Fighting Illini sports.
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.
217 Today is produced by Kimberly Schofield. Reporting today contributed by Eric Stock, Katie O’Connell, the Associated Press, and Molly Ashford.
217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Dec. 25 – Dec. 28
Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- The U.S. Supreme Court has refused to allow the Trump administration to deploy National Guard troops in the Chicago area for now.
- Tens of millions of Christmas trees are cut and sold in the U.S. each year.
- A state lawmaker says he’s looking out for people with so-called lifetime gym memberships.
- Midwestern farmers are rounding out a very tough year. Many have been growing corn, wheat and soybeans at a loss.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Lisa Dwyer, Hope Kirwan, Frank Morris, Kimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: From ‘Grinchmas’ to chestnut roasts, these rural towns make the holidays central to their economy
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- The biggest education bill taking effect this January is about immigrant students.
- A group of students at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign are hoping the school’s new chancellor will sign off on a new mascot.
- A new Illinois law aims to better inform high school students about possible careers and internships.
- Fighting Illini nation is talking about the blowout in St. Louis last night.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Arjun Thakkar, Reginald Hardwick and Tadeo Ruiz Sandoval.
217 Today: Ag sector alarm bells are going off
Friday, December 22, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Police are looking for the person who caused a wrong-way collision in Urbana over the weekend that killed a pedestrian and injured a police officer.
- A new Illinois law will help families see how affordable each state college is and whether the cost is worth it.
- Local bus service could expand in Champaign-Urbana after state lawmakers passed a bill recently to invest millions of dollars in public transit across the state.
- Scientists at Kansas State University say bison could play a role in controlling aggressive evergreens that are spreading on the Great Plains.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Emily Hays, Arjun Thakkar, Celia Llopis-Jepsen and Charlie Schlenker.
217 Today: More than a holiday tradition, reindeer are a way of life at the Hardy ranch in Rantoul
Friday, December 19, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- It’s been six months since the Danville school board hired a new district leader and Superintendent John Hart doesn’t have a contract yet.
- The Trump administration is taking the state of Illinois to court and the issue this time is voter data.
- Illinois Education Superintendent Tony Sanders is cautioning school officials not to expect big funding increases next year.
- Hundreds of thousands of Illinoisans are getting ready for what’s next as Congress announces it will not vote to extend health care subsidies by December 31st.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Mawa Iqbal, Capitol News Illinois, Alex Degman and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Dec. 18 – Dec. 21
Thursday, December 18, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- State data shows one in three Urbana students was chronically absent last year. That means they missed 10 percent of school with or without an excuse.
- A state task force is investigating why violence against women and girls in Chicago is disproportionately high.
- Downtown Urbana’s Courier Cafe remains closed due to structural issues.
- Illinois’ new vaccine advisory committee voted Tuesday to continue giving the hepatitis B vaccine to most newborns.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Mawa Iqbal, Reginald Hardwick, Katie O’Connell, Kimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: New Illinois Farm Bureau president wants to restore communication and credibility for the venerable organization
Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Governor JB Pritzker is warning of new quote “harassment” as federal border patrol chief Gregory Bovino returns to Chicago for more immigration enforcement.
- The new president of the Illinois Farm Bureau says one of the reasons he won election was a pledge to improve communication with other industry groups.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has enacted a 1.5 billion dollar mass transit bailout.
- The percentage of people killed in motor vehicle crashes involving alcohol has increased statewide since 2019.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Charlie Schlenker, Mawa Iqbal and Noah Jennings.
217 Today: With a federal tax credit ending early, installing home solar is about to get more expensive
Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Some businesses in Champaign were under a boil water order yesterday afternoon.
- New Illinois Farm Bureau President Philip Nelson says agriculture producers are getting prices for crops and animals that are the same as 1974 after adjusting for inflation.
- Electric vehicle maker Rivian is making the case it is ready to catch up with and surpass Tesla in self-driving vehicle software.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is mourning the lives lost in Australia this weekend, when two gunmen opened fire on a Hanukkah festival.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Charlie Schlenker, Mawa Iqbal and Rachel Cramer.
217 Today: Declining attendance & rising maintenance costs bring an end to a historic church building in Champaign
Monday, December 16, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Meteorologists say you may face dangerous conditions on the roads today.
- The blustery weather is causing schedule changes at local school districts.
- Winter weather brought snow, dangerous cold and deadly wrecks to central Illinois over the weekend.
- Hours after terrorists killed 16 people at a Hanukkah season ceremony in Australia. A Menorah lighting went on as planned in Champaign last night.
In today’s deep dive, as church attendance declines in the U.S., some congregations are finding it difficult to maintain their historic buildings.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Anna Koh, Charles Letford and Andrew Pritchard.
217 Today: Advocates for Aging Care pushes for solutions as Champaign County faces skilled nursing bed shortage
Friday, December 12, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Central Illinois saw snow fall yesterday and earlier this morning and we could see some temperatures below zero starting tomorrow.
- According to the Illinois State Board of Education, 25-percent of Illinois public school students are chronically absent. But one program is making a difference.
- The Western Illinois University board has authorized the administration to borrow up to two-million dollars from the institution’s foundation.
- Congressman Eric Sorensen may end up having no primary opponent in the March 2026 election.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Andrew Pritchard, Elissa Eaton, Emily Hays, Rich Egger and Erick Stock.
217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Dec. 11 – Dec. 14
Thursday, December 11, 2025
Today’s headlines
- Central Illinois could see some snow today.
- According to CU Public Health, Champaign County is projected to be short over 300 beds for skilled nursing care by next year.
- A commission formed in honor of an unarmed black woman murdered in her Springfield area home last year has unveiled their 26 calls to action.
- A new study shows a closing gap between what men and women are paid at Illinois companies.
In today’s deep dive, we’ll hear what’s coming to the central Illinois area in the world of arts, culture, and entertainment.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Andrew Pritchard, Elissa Eaton, Mawa Iqbal, Alex Degman, Kimberly Schofield, and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: Improved natural gas storage fields will save customers money, Ameren Illinois says
Wednesday, December 10, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Central Illinois could see some high winds today.
- Student officials at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign are concerned that the administration is limiting their power.
- President Donald Trump announced a $12 billion bailout for farmers on Monday.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has enacted legislation aimed at giving residents more legal protections against federal immigration agents.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Andrew Pritchard, Emily Hays, Frank Morris, Mawa Iqbal, Will Bauer.
217 Today: Cottonseeds are loaded with protein. Could these seeds become a new food source?
Wednesday, December 9, 2025
Today’s headlines:
-
An Urbana native is now the interim leader of his hometown fire department.
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A fire destroyed a storage facility at an agricultural company in Wapella, about 42 miles northeast of Champaign-Urbana yesterday morning.
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The Illinois Department of Public Health says it will continue to recommend the hepatitis B vaccine for all newborns.
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Illinois Pork Producers are donating over 100-thousand pounds of ground pork to food banks across the state.
In today’s deep dive, cottonseeds could help reduce hunger and add new revenue for farmers. One researcher has been working for decades to make edible seeds a reality.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Michael Marks, Reginald Hardwick, Haley Blomquist and Todd Gleason.
217 Today: Champaign’s only low-barrier shelter is at risk of closing. Some guests are worried
Monday, December 8, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- The Illinois State Board of Education is working on a plan to improve math skills among K-12 students.
- The Trump administration is demanding that Illinois hand over data on nearly 2 million SNAP recipients or risk losing federal funds.
- Within a few months, a homeless shelter in Champaign may close – if it doesn’t secure additional funding.
- The Fighting Illini women’s Basketball team hosted the University of Indiana at State Farm Center on Saturday afternoon.
In today’s deep dive, the only low-barrier shelter in Champaign-Urbana is at risk of closing. Some guests worry they’ll end up on the streets.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Giuliana Means, Capitol News Illinois, Mawa Iqbal and Jonathan Matthew.
217 Today: Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch celebrates 30 years and represents Illinois on Good Morning America
Friday, December 5, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- An interstellar object passing through our solar system has become the subject of alien speculation.
- Scientists are keeping an eye on a new plant species found in northwest Illinois.
- Illinois lawmakers decide in a few weeks whether people in prison will get physical mail again.
- A group of students and community members at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is pushing for the school to adopt a new official mascot: the belted kingfisher.
In today’s deep dive, Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch opened 30 years ago in Rantoul and today, 20 reindeer live at Hardy’s, which recently represented Illinois on Good Morning America’s “America the Beautiful: 50 States in 50 Weeks.”
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Adrien Reets, Todd Gleason, Kimberly Schofield and Emily Hays.
217 Today: Transgender people are looking for safer places to live. Some have found a home in central Illinois
Thursday, December 4, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- The Champaign City Council unanimously rejected an ordinance to prohibit people without housing from camping out in public spaces.
- Among U.S. adults almost half of those who are transgender, nonbinary and gender-diverse say they’ve considered moving or have already moved to a more trans-affirming place.
- The state of Illinois has a full slate of events planned to commemorate the United States’ 250th birthday celebration.
- The Illinois Secretary of State has issued warnings to national rental car companies.
In today’s deep dive, the political climate in some states has encouraged hostility towards trans people. It’s causing some to leave in search of more affirming communities.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Sam Rink, Arjun Thakkar, Alex Degman and Mawa Iqbal.
217 Today: Crisis Nursery offers holiday shopping for kids
Wednesday, December 3, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Tonight, temperatures will drop to dangerously low levels.
- Applications are now open for those interested in being Champaign Unit 4’s next superintendent.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker says Northwestern University should not be “capitulating to the extortion that’s being brought upon them.”
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has signed a measure allowing the state to develop its own vaccine guidelines independent of the federal government.
In today’s deep dive, the Crisis Nursery in Urbana is hosting its annual holiday shop this weekend. We’ll hear about how the children can shop for their loved ones.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Kimberly Schofield, Emily Hays and Alex Degman.
217 Today: A native prairie bird lost federal protection. People are still trying to save it on private land
Tuesday, December 2, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- You may want to keep hand sanitizer, a mask and Vitamin-C on your list of essentials this winter as flu season is expected to be worse than usual.
- The Trump administration’s spending cuts could reduce economic activity in Illinois by 10 billion dollars each year by 2029, according to a new report.
- Several state agencies say President Trump’s tariff policies are costing Illinoisans thousands of dollars more this year.
- The average Ameren Illinois customer will have to pay almost four dollars more per month for natural gas come January.
In today’s deep dive, lesser prairie chickens used to roam across the Great Plains by the millions. Now there’s only a few thousand. And they recently lost federal protection.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mariah Woelfel, Capitol News Illinois, Mawa Iqbal, Will Bauer and Anna Pope.
217 Today: Ebertfest and beyond, how the C-U film sphere moves forward after the loss of a giant
Monday, December 1, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Any new snow we receive today will fall on top of what the National Weather Service is calling one of the most prolific late November snowfalls on record.
- If you look out over Lake Decatur, you’ll see two platforms that look like floating gardens. These structures are man-made wetlands, a project of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
- For 26 years EbertFest brought in world-renowned filmmakers, directors, actors and musicians for a weekend of live music and film at the Virginia Theatre in Champaign.
- The Fighting Illini football team ended their regular season with a snow fight in Champaign winning 20-to-13 Northwestern.
In today’s deep dive, EbertFest organizers announced this fall they won’t be coming back but there’s some discussion of a possible encore.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by A. Oishii Basu, Reginald Hardwick, Elissa Eaton and Jonathan Mathew.
217 Today: Illinois prisons are confining the incarcerated to their cells more often than during the pandemic. Can peer education help?
Friday, November 21, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Newly released documents by Congress show deeper ties between convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and prominent civic figure Thomas Pritzker.
- Prisons in Illinois are going into lockdowns twice as often as they were in 2020.
- A Sudanese American comedian from the Quad Cities wants to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
- The Number 21 ranked Fighting Illini football team is heading into their final road game of the season as the team gears up to take on Wisconsin this Saturday.
In today’s deep dive, prison lockdowns cut incarcerated people off from educational opportunities, and they often occur due to staff shortages. Experts say peer mentorship could help fill the gap.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mariah Woelfel, Emily Hays, Kulsoom Khan and Jonathan Mathew.
217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Nov. 20 – Nov. 23
Thursday, November 20, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- President Donald Trump has signed a bill to compel the Justice Department to make public its case files on convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
- Just in time for Thanksgiving travel week, another section of Champaign County’s busiest interstate interchange is now open!
- Some staff with Arrow Ambulance are concerned they won’t be prepared to handle more 911 calls for emergency medical service in Champaign.
- Investigators are looking for the cause of a church fire in north Champaign.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Associated Press, Reginald Hardwick, Kulsoom Khan, Arjun Thakkar, Kimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: Junior League of Champaign-Urbana celebrates final Festival of Trees
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Starting today, Illinois residents can store their driver’s license or state ID on their iPhones’ Wallet.
- The U.S. House has voted to admonish Congressman Chuy Garcia for the way he announced his retirement.
- U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth has fired a Belleville-based staffer that the Department of Homeland Security accused of misrepresenting himself as an attorney.
- Senate President Don Harmon will not have to pay a 10-million-dollar fine for violating state campaign finance laws.
In today’s deep dive, Junior League of Champaign-Urbana celebrates the final Festival of Trees after 30 years.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mawa Iqbal, Alex Degman, Will Bauer, Brian Sapp and Kimberly Schofield.
217 Today: ‘There’s a softness that starts to settle in’, peer educators incarcerated at Danville Correctional Center describe their teaching journey
Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Police are looking for a suspect who shot and killed a 24-year old man in west Champaign on Sunday.
- If you’re planning to drive through University Avenue in downtown Champaign during the day this week you may want to consider an alternate route.
- When defendants facing criminal charges are found unfit for trial due to mental health concerns, Illinois law requires them to be transferred to receive treatment at a state hospital.
- More than 50 youth football teams will converge on Rantoul this weekend for the regional football championships.
In today’s deep dive, Danville Correctional Center has led the state in experimenting with a different kind of education — led by peers.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Arjun Thakkar and Emily Hays.
217 Today: Illinois Public Media’s new leaders describe their vision, hope to allay staff concerns
Monday, November 17, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Thousands of students at the University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign rent apartments off campus, and some report leasing companies take advantage of them by not returning their deposits after they move out.
- New data from the Agriculture Department casts doubt that China will really buy millions of bushels of American soybeans, like the Trump administration said last month.
- Starved Rock State Park will undergo an $18 million improvement project over the next year.
- The Fighting Illini football team stood tall against Maryland, 24-6 in a windy battle in Champaign.
In today’s deep dive, an interview with the new leaders of Illinois Public Media.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Sam Rink, The Associated Press, Jenna Dooley, Jonathan Matthew and Emily Hays.
217 Today: Curious about astrophotography in C-U? Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the craft
Friday, November 14, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is not giving up hope on legislation to crack down on homeowners insurance price hikes.
- Central Illinois Congressman Darren LaHood voted with the majority of House Republicans in passing the bill that ended the longest government shutdown in history.
- Air travel leading up to Thanksgiving might look a little bit different this year.
- Students and faculty at several university campuses in Illinois are calling on Governor JB Pritzker to release more than $29 million in higher education funding.
In today’s deep dive, astrophotographers in Champaign, Urbana share what’s so awe inspiring about their work.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mawa Iqbal, Eric Stock, Arjun Thakkar, Capital News Illinois, and Adrien Reetz.
217 Today: U of I College of Media removes Illinois Public Media executive director, promotes from within to fill
Thursday, November 13, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- An Illinois congressman is a member of the U.S. House committee that released emails yesterday from convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
- A new type of fencing is gaining traction with ranchers and conservationists.
- Thanksgiving is near and wholesale turkey prices are projected to be higher than last year.
- The No. 14 ranked Fighting Illini Men’s basketball hosted No. 11 ranked Texas Tech Tuesday night at State Farm Center.
In today’s deep dive, the College of Media at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is installing new leadership at Illinois Public Media.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mawa Iqbal, Emily Hays, Rachel Cramer, Jonathan Mathew and Tadeo Ruiz Sandoval.
217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Nov. 13 – Nov. 16
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- The University of Illinois College of Media has installed new leadership at Illinois Public Media.
- The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is getting involved with a local housing initiative to support those experiencing chronic homelessness.
- Darren Bailey says he’s moving forward with his campaign for governor.
- After taking last week off, the Fighting Illini football team is looking to get back on the field.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Arjun Thakkar, Capitol News Illinois, Jonathan Mathew andKimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: Veterans showcase their artwork surrounding Veterans Day
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs yesterday returned a long-lost Purple Heart Medal to the family of a World War II veteran.
- States have taken different approaches to messaging about SNAP delays as the government shutdown continues.
- Today is Veterans Day in the U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth, a veteran from Illinois, will soon mark 21 years since she was injured in the line of duty.
- Several top Illinois Democrats oppose a plan to reopen the federal government, but not Senator Dick Durbin.
In today’s deep dive, a group of veterans is coming together this month to showcase their artwork.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mawa Iqbal, Molly Ashford, Capitol News Illinois, Arjun Thakkar and Kimberly Schofield.
217 Today: Farmers are desperate for workers. They want Trump to make it easier to hire foreign labor
Monday, November 10, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- You may need a little extra time for the drive into work this morning.
- The following school closings and delays are being reported this morning.
- Local retailers are concerned as the Trump administration has said they can’t give discounts to SNAP recipients while food aid is in limbo due to the government shutdown.
- It was a busy weekend at State Farm Center as the Fighting Illini Men’s and Women’s Basketball team hosted their second games of the season.
In today’s deep dive, American agriculture depends on foreign workers. President Trump’s immigration clampdown is shrinking a farm workforce that was already too small, and farm groups are sounding the alarm.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Emily Hays, Jonathan Matthew and Frank Morris.
217 Today: Robert Moore, first Black U.S. Marshal from central Illinois, discusses his journey in law enforcement
Friday, November 7, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to pay full SNAP benefits by today.
- Chicago-area commuters may soon see the impacts of a massive transit-deal that is awaiting Governor JB Pritzker’s signature.
- The book “If All the Sky Were Paper” will be brought to life on stage in Urbana starting tonight.
- The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is making several administrative changes. That includes renaming its Office for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
In today’s deep dive, we’ll bring you a conversation with Robert Moore Central Illinois’ first Black U.S. Marshal. Moore shares details on his journey through the Illinois State Police and how he fought for civil rights within the realm of law enforcement.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Kennedy Vincent, Anna Koh, Mawa Iqbal and Arjun Thakkar.
217 Today: Remembering Latrelle Bright, a pillar in the Champaign-Urbana theater community
Thursday, November 6, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- A federal judge yesterday ordered authorities to improve a Chicago-area immigration facility after a group of detainees sued, alleging they were being kept in “inhumane” conditions.
- The Illinois Department of Corrections is working to make an emergency rule for scanning prisoners’ mail permanent.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker says he’s proud to see Democratic candidates winning elections around the country on Tuesday.
- Governor JB Pritzker has ordered all state and U.S. flags in Illinois to be flown at half-staff to honor the death of former Vice President Dick Cheney.
In today’s deep dive, a University of Illinois theater professor touched the lives of nearly everyone she worked with.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Jennifer King, Capitol News Illinois, Mawa Iqbal, Arjun Thakkar and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: A look into the Illinois legislature’s veto session in Springfield
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- While some Head Start early childhood centers across the country may have to close during the government shutdown, the program’s locations in central Illinois are safe, for now.
- China has reversed course and committed to buy 12 million tons of U.S. soybeans this year about half of what the Asian giant would normally import.
- A Republican running for Illinois’ U.S. Senate seat says America’s support for Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has been quote “measured and appropriate.”
- The Fighting Illini Women’s Basketball team tipped off the regular season with a win against Southeast Missouri State University.
In today’s deep dive, it’s been over a week since state lawmakers in Springfield wrapped a busy fall veto session.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Will Bauer, Arjun Thakkar, Jonathan Matthew, Alex Degman and Melba Lara.
217 Today: Tasks on a treadmill, live show pushes the limits, explores human abilities in unique way
Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker says he’s still deciding whether he will sign a controversial piece of legislation that would allow doctors to assist terminally ill patients with ending their lives.
- Danville School District 118 dismissed all of its schools on Monday because of an anonymous threat.
- Educators say they worry teenagers aren’t getting enough sleep.
- Logan County officials say scammers are stealing personal information by claiming residents have missed jury duty.
In today’s deep dive, four artists perform everyday tasks while running on a treadmill. Burnout Paradise is coming to Krannert Center for the Performing Arts in Urbana this weekend.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Kennedy Vincent, Emily Hays, Christine Herman and Kimberly Schofield.
217 Today: Veterans showcase their artwork surrounding Veterans Day
Monday, November 3, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Police in Urbana are investigating a stabbing that injured at least 4 people.
- Today marks the third day SNAP benefits were suspended due to the federal government shutdown.
- The Champaign Unit Four School District will continue providing free breakfast and lunch to students regardless of whether federal food aid continues during the government shutdown.
- President Trump and his allies have sought to significantly curb the independence of colleges and universities. So how is the University of Illinois responding?
In today’s deep dive, a group of veterans is coming together this month to showcase their artwork.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by A. Oishii Basu, Reginald Hardwick, Emily Hays and Kimberly Schofield.
217 Today: How Foley artists transform watermelons into a chorus of feasting zombies in horror films
Friday, October 31, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is making a plea to federal immigration agents: leave the kids alone this Halloween.
- President Trump announced last month that all new H-1B visa applications for employers looking to hire foreign workers will require a $100,000 fee.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker says there’s only so much the state can do to mitigate harm when SNAP benefits are cut off this Saturday.
- The Illinois State Board of Education released data on Thursday to assess how students are performing in their schools.
In today’s deep dive, a majority of the spooky sounds in scary movies aren’t as scary as they seem. Most of the time they’re created with everyday objects.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Alex Degman, Layli Nazarova, Emily Hays and Marissanne Lewis-Thompson.
217 Today: Downstate jury finds ex-cop guilty of second-degree murder for fatally shooting Sonya Massey
Thursday, October 30, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- A jury in Peoria has found a white, ex-cop guilty of second degree murder for killing 36-year-old Sonya Massey last year.
- Governor JB Pritzker doesn’t like the latest proposal to fund mass transit.
- State Representatives passed a major energy bill Wednesday night that aims to lower electric bills over the next few years and make the grid more reliable.
- Governor JB Pritzker has declared what he’s calling an “agricultural trade crisis” in Illinois and he’s signed an executive order he says will mitigate it.
In today’s deep dive, the conviction against former deputy sheriff Sean Grayson, who is white, carries a potential sentence of between four and 20 years.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mawa Iqbal, Alex Degman and Capitol News Illinois.
217 Today: ‘National Math Stars’ wants to identify and support Illinois’ youngest math minds
Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Illinois and 24 other states are suing the U.S. Department of Agriculture over plans to stop funding food benefits on November first.
- The murder case of a white ex-cop accused of killing Springfield-area resident Sonya Massey is now before a jury.
- An interstellar comet is currently traveling through our solar system at 200 times the speed of sound.
- President Trump’s tariff policies have prompted China to stop purchasing from America and rely instead on Argentina and Brazil.
In today’s deep dive, a group of Illinois students has joined a program to foster the nation’s top math minds.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Adrien Reetz, Capitol News Illinois, Mawa Iqbal, Christine Herman and Peter Medlin.
217 Today: Good gourd! These Midwesterners are raising giant pumpkins that weigh as much as a car
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Illinois families will lose access to food assistance benefits this Saturday if Congress doesn’t reach a deal to end the government shutdown.
- Hundreds of Illinois political candidates lined up early Monday morning to get their names on next year’s primary ballot.
- A former downstate cop charged with murdering Springfield-area resident Sonya Massey last year took the witness stand today.
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture released a plan last week aimed at increasing cattle herd sizes by expanding grazing on government lands and reducing red tape.
In today’s deep dive, raising giant pumpkins is a labor of love for some Midwest growers. And the pumpkins keep getting bigger and bigger.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Alex Degman, Mawa Iqbal, Molly Ashford and Peter Medlin.
217 Today: Jury could decide the fate of Sean Grayson in his murder trial this week
Monday, October 27, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino has been ordered to testify in Chicago federal court.
- Later today in Peoria, defense attorneys are expected to take over the trial of Sean Grayson.
- The future of ranching and conservation may be fenceless with high-tech cattle collars.
- New leaders at the Illinois Federation of Teachers say Illinois needs to increase its spending on K–12 education, even if that means raising taxes on wealthy individuals and corporations.
In today’s deep dive, the murder trial of Sean Grayson resumes today. He is the former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy who shot and killed Sonya Massey last year.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Capitol News Illinois and Rachel Cramer.
217 Today: U of I satellite was delivered to space. It will study space weather and how it affects us on Earth
Friday, October 24, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- A forensic scientist testified yesterday in the murder trial of Sean Grayson.
- Danville’s school board voted unanimously earlier this week to fire its finance director.
- Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey is mourning the loss of one of his sons and multiple family members.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker says abuse is continuing in and around Chicago at the hands of federal immigration agents.
In today’s deep dive, a University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign designed satellite was delivered to Earth’s outer atmosphere. We’ll learn more about how it will make a difference for technology on Earth.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mawa Iqbal, Emily Hays, Alex Degman and Reginald Hardwick.
217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Oct. 23 – Oct. 26
Thursday, October 23, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Local officials found no evidence of immigration officials in the area.
- Most Illinois teachers feel parents support them teaching about race and gender despite opposition from the Trump administration.
- Illinois State University in Normal launched a new College of Engineering program this semester.
- This Saturday the Virginia Theatre in Champaign will feature The Rocky Horror Picture Show celebrating the film’s 50th anniversary.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Adelyn Mui, Emily Hays, Christine Herman, A. Oishii Basu and Kimberly Schofield.
217 Today: A year after statewide picket, Galesburg prison still plagued by drugs, violence, understaffing
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Opening statements take place this morning in the murder trial of a former sheriff’s deputy charged with shooting Sonya Massey last year.
- University of Illinois Chicago is ending the consideration of race, gender and other factors in financial aid and faculty hiring and tenure decisions, campus leaders say.
- The Trump administration has agreed to an extension of a judge’s temporary block on deploying the National Guard to Chicago while the U.S. Supreme Court weighs the case.
- Construction began this week on a new walking and biking path in Urbana to connect East Washington and Main Streets.
In today’s deep dive, Illinois prisons are scanning mail to keep drugs out but staff say violence and drugs are still a problem at Hill Correctional Center in Galesburg.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Arjun Thakkar, Lisa Kurian Phillip, Capitol News Illinois, Mawa Iqbal and Jane Carlson.
217 Today: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Huff Hall celebrates 100th anniversary
Tuesday, October 21, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Police have arrested a suspect in the shooting that occurred in Campustown this past weekend.
- This weekend the head of the Chicago Teachers Union was elected president of the Illinois Federation of Teachers.
- The state has a new $300 million dollar veterans’ home in downstate Quincy after Legionnaires’ outbreaks killed more than a dozen residents.
- Nearly 2 million people in Illinois could lose federal food benefits in November.
In today’s deep dive, Huff Hall at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Sarah Karp, Mawa Iqbal, Capitol News Illinois and Prairie Fire.
217 Today: Drought is shrinking Mississippi River levels — again. That’s a big problem for farmers
Monday, October 20, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Police say a person was shot during an altercation in Campustown this past weekend.
- Thousands gathered in front of the Champaign County Courthouse Saturday for the second “No Kings” protest this year.
- It’s harvest season. And, Governor J-B Pritzker worries about Illinois soybean farmers because of President Trump’s tariff-driven trade war with China.
- Open enrollment is right around the corner. This year Illinoisans getting their health insurance through the Affordable Care Act will use a new system.
In today’s deep dive, the Mississippi River is running low south of Illinois. And that means shipping products like fertilizer will cost more.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Sam Rink, Mawa Iqbal, Capitol News Illinois and Tadeo Ruiz Sandoval.
217 Today: Drought across the county is taking a toll on trees across Illinois. What can you do?
Friday, October 17, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker made more than $10 million last year.
- Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker is commending actions by a federal judge in Chicago.
- The Strides low-barrier shelter could close by February of next year if officials don’t find new sources of funding.
- The Champaign City Council has denied a request to name the University Place Christian Church a local landmark as demolition of the building is already underway.
In today’s deep dive, more than half of Champaign County is currently in extreme drought.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mawa Iqbal, Arjun Thakkar, Maddie Stover and Trent Ford.
217 Today: WILL Call: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Oct. 16 – Oct. 19
Thursday, October 16, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- President Trump’s signature tax and spending bill ended tax credits for wind and solar projects that aren’t in service by the end of next year.
- It’s been 50 years since third graders in Decatur convinced Illinois to adopt monarch butterflies as the state insect.
- The Democratic National Committee is launching an offensive in farm country across the Midwest focused on the impact of tariffs on agriculture.
- Illinois lawmakers hope to tackle soaring utility bills in the remaining four days of the fall, veto session.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Mawa Iqbal, Todd Gleason, Kimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: Drought is shrinking Mississippi River levels — again. That’s a big problem for farmers
Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- The Trump administration is asking colleges to make policy changes in exchange for special federal funding opportunities.
- Immigrant rights advocates are in Springfield pushing for legislation to protect Chicagoans from federal agents.
- Many Illinois shoppers will still be paying a 1 percent grocery tax in 2026.
- Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is suing State Farm Insurance.
In today’s deep dive, the Mississippi River is running low south of Illinois. And that means shipping products like fertilizer will cost more.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Charles Ledford, Mawa Iqbal, Capitol News Illinois, Alex Degman and Tadeo Ruiz Sandoval.
217 Today: University of Illinois wheelchair athlete wins Chicago Marathon
Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Democratic Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch is signaling possible state legislation to curb abuses by federal immigration enforcement agents.
- Public transportation systems in Illinois face significant funding gaps – and say they need state lawmakers to step in.
- A University of Illinois alumna took first place in the Chicago Marathon women’s wheelchair race on Sunday.
- A shared kitchen space – known as Chef Lab – aims to promote community among culinary artists in the Champaign-Urbana area.
In today’s deep dive, University of Illinois wheelchair athlete Susannah Scaroni won the Chicago Marathon on Sunday.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Dave McKinney, Giuliana Means, Arjun Thakkar and Anna Koh.
217 Today: How does the weather affect autumn leaf colors?
Monday, October 13, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Investigators are looking for the cause of a fire that prompted the rescue of 9 people and a dog.
- The Illinois Governor’s Budget Office is predicting a 2 billion dollar deficit next fiscal year.
- Illinois lawmakers are back in Springfield this week for – what they are saying – will be a jam packed, 6-day veto session.
- The Krannert Center for Performing Arts in Urbana was immersed in Arab culture Saturday evening.
In today’s deep dive, we’re getting closer to peak fall leaf color season. Find out specifically why the leaves turn yellow and how weather can affect the colors.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Mawa Iqbal, Layli Nazarova and Trent Ford.
217 Today: Farmers caught in Trump’s trade war wait for bailout. But many call it a temporary fix
Friday, October 10, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- A judge blocked the deployment of National Guard troops in the Chicago area for two weeks, finding no substantial evidence that a “danger of rebellion” is brewing
- Homeless students in the Urbana School District are facing new challenges when their families look for a place to stay.
- A new financial literacy program in Urbana aims to help residents with basic financial skills.
- U.S. Senator Dick Durbin says millions of Americans will soon see much higher health insurance premiums unless Congress extends subsidies for the Affordable Care Act.
In today’s deep dive, the Trump administration is promising billions in a bailout for farmers affected by tariffs and facing a tough economy this year.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Haya Panjwani, Emily Hays, Diana Zhang, Erick Stock and Joe Schulz.
217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Oct. 9 – Oct. 12
Thursday, October 9, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Illinois Governor J-B Pritzker is vowing not to back down to President Trump after he said the governor and Mayor Brandon Johnson deserve to be jailed.
- An alumnus of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is one of three recipients of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
- A Republican congressman who represents a portion of Illinois’ Metro East region is trying to strike down a law that counts mail in ballots that arrive after Election Day.
- State lawmakers will return to Springfield next week for veto session.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by the Associated Press, Dave McKinney, Jason Rosenbaum, Capitol News Illinois, Kimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: Americans are drinking less. What does that mean for winemakers in the Heartland?
Wednesday, October 8, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters blocked the intersection of Green Street and Goodwin Avenue in Urbana yesterday on the two-year anniversary of Israel’s war in Gaza.
- U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth says the Trump administration’s plan to send hundreds of National Guard members to Chicago is unconstitutional.
- The University of Illinois’ Soybean Innovation Lab nearly shut down earlier this year after the Trump administration cut USAID funding. Additional funding could be on the way.
- The Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board has approved a request from OSF HealthCare to restructure operations at the Heart of Mary Medical Center in Urbana.
In today’s deep dive, the grape harvest for wine is in full swing. But in some regions, the last few years have been tough.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Mawa Iqbal, Stephanie Orellana, Arjun Thakkar and Rachel Cramer.
217 Today: What happens if new data centers come to C-U? A look at the environmental costs
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker says the Trump administration is sowing chaos in the state as a pretext to deploy the National Guard.
- With the rise of AI, downstate Illinois could be a prime location for new facilities.
- Protestors and journalists say their first amendment rights are being trampled by tear gas and rubber bullets.
- Illinois’ attorney general says the state is on firm legal footing in its newly-filed lawsuit against the Trump administration over National Guard deployments.
In today’s deep dive, still to come data centers use a lot of energy and water. And with the rise in AI some worry about the possibility of more facilities coming to downstate Illinois.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Layli Nazarova, Arjun Thakkar, Alex Degman and Mawa Iqbal.
217 Today: When will beef prices drop? We asked a rancher, a butcher and an economist
Monday, October 6, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- A public hearing held in Urbana Saturday explored the ongoing hurt of Black Americans in Illinois with a call-to-action for reparations.
- President Donald Trump is making plans for a significant aid package for U.S. soybean farmers.
- The city of Urbana will explore alternatives to mental health crisis intervention — aimed at minimizing police involvement.
- The battle for the cannon trophy ended with the Fighting Illini football team beating Purdue in Indiana 43-27.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Giuliana Means, Reginald Hardwick, Jenny Lin, Jonathan Mathew and Michael Marks.
217 Today: Rural America still needs fast internet. Some worry new federal plans will fall short
Friday, October 3, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- A woman from central Illinois is among those detained after the Israeli military intercepted a flotilla of boats attempting to deliver food and medicine to Gaza.
- A group of progressive veterans is demanding that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents stop engaging in what they call “mob tactics” against protesters and immigrants.
- As the federal government shutdown enters its third day, Chicago area workers at the Transportation Security Administration – or TSA – are worried about how they’ll get by.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker joined experts at the University of Illinois – Chicago’s medical school for a roundtable to dispel misinformation.
In today’s deep dive, federal dollars will help bring internet connection to rural communities across the U.S. But new guidance from the Trump administration is asking states to consider the lowest cost options.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Esther Yoon-Ji Kang, Mawa Iqbal, Alex Degman and Anna Pope.
217 Today: CU Cyclists come together for a 22-mile moonlight ride
Thursday, October 2, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- President Trump has said he’ll take action during the government shutdown to eliminate federal programs and fire workers.
- The Champaign Unit 4 School District has approved its budget for the next year as it’s anticipating a drop in federal funding.
- A new report on the state of education in Illinois was released yesterday.
- U.S. News and World Report has ranked Central High School in Champaign the third best out of 16 area high schools and Centennial High School was ranked fifth.
In today’s deep dive, in the warmer months, on the evening of a full moon, a group of cyclists in Champaign-Urbana head out into the countryside.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Christine Herman, Emily Hays, Peter Medlin, Charles Ledford, and Arjun Thakkar.
217 Today: Standing up to ICE in the suburbs, the People’s Patrol puts its faith in resistance
Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- The Illinois Department of Public Health has issued separate recommendations on COVID-19 vaccines that run counter to new federal guidelines.
- Soybean producers across the country are getting ready to export their crop.
- U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins says the agency will restart international food aid, but under new branding, and an “America First” focus.
- The Trump administration is ending a survey that tracks food access across the country.
In today’s deep dive, a west suburban effort called the People’s Patrol organizes scores of volunteers to confront immigration agents carrying out President Trump’s deportation blitz.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Christine Herman, Tadeo Ruiz Sandoval, Frank Morris Anna Pope and Chip Mitchell.
217 Today: Rep. LaHood on the government shutdown, Tylenol guidance, and foreign aid after USAID
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Dry weather and low rainfall continue to affect Central Illinois.
- Congress is fast approaching a government shutdown due to a disagreement over healthcare costs.
- A nearly century-old church building in Champaign is set to be demolished under a deal worth more than four point one million dollars.
- Infectious disease experts want the C-D-C to label Chagas disease as endemic — to improve surveillance and research.
In today’s deep dive, Central Illinois Republican congressman Darin LaHood weighs in on Charlie Kirk’s debates and the looming government shutdown.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Diana Zhang, Emily Hays, Anna Koh, Stephanie Orellana and Lauren Warnecke.
217 Today: A student vandalized a University of Illinois building. U of I prohibited him from coming back onto campus.
Monday, September 29, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- A former student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is now prohibited from coming onto campus after he vandalized Foellinger Auditorium last semester.
- The Fighting Illini capped off Homecoming with a nail-biter of a win against USC yesterday afternoon. Illinois beat the Trojans 34-to-32.
- A celebration of African American music history took place Sunday at Skelton Park in Champaign.
- A new tool from the federal government will bring together data on drought and flooding in the Mississippi River Basin.
In today’s deep dive, a University of Illinois student was suspended after spray painting the word “divest” onto a campus building last semester.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mae Antar, Jonathan Matthew, Giuliana Means and Kate Grumke.
217 Today: Rise in tick-borne illnesses prompts Illinois TICK Act to increase surveillance
Friday, September 26, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- U.S. Senator Dick Durbin visited the University of Illinois yesterday to see the impact federal funding has had on research into the genetics of bees.
- Tick bites can lead to illnesses, such as Lyme Disease and Alpha Gal Syndrome, a condition that’s on the rise in Illinois.
- The Illinois Department of Public Health announced Tuesday it would recommend COVID-19 vaccinations for most people in the state.
- Former Republican state senator Darren Bailey officially kicked off his second campaign for Illinois governor today.
In today’s deep dive, tick-borne diseases have been on the rise in Illinois for many years. And ticks appear to be migrating across the state.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Elissa Eaton, Katie O’ Connell and Capitol News Illinois.
217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Sep. 25 – Sep. 28
Thursday, September 25, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- NASA launched three space weather satellites yesterday morning including the first NASA mission led by a University of Illinois researcher.
- A jury recently awarded the family of a central Illinois farmer nine-million-dollars in the nation’s first ever liability trial over asbestos in shotgun shells.
- The Illinois Supreme Court has ordered former GOP attorney general nominee Tom DeVore’s law license suspended for 60 days.
- Illinois football is taking the field Saturday against USC to cap off Homecoming at the U of I.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Adrien Reetz, Charlie Schlenker, Capitol News Illinois, Jonathan Mathew, Kimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: Bob and Bill Odenkirk discuss Illinois roots and their passion for comedy on Prairie Fire
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- The late conservative activist Charlie Kirk included four University of Illinois researchers on a watchlist of college professors.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is glad ABC’s late-night host Jimmy Kimmel is returning to the air.
- Illinois Democrats in Congress have signed a letter asking the federal government to end what it’s calling “dangerous and reckless immigration operations” in the state.
- A survey of more than five-thousand workers in Illinois finds higher pay and good benefits are linked to greater job satisfaction.
In today’s deep dive, the main actor of the popular television series Better Call Saul has roots in Illinois.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Dave McKinney, Katie O’Connel, Christine Herman and Sarah Edwards.
217 Today: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign launches space mission to make electronics and air travel safer
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- The fate of Illinois’ assault weapons ban is now before a federal appeals court.
- Tomorrow morning, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is launching its first-ever NASA mission into space.
- Hundreds of steelworkers rallied in Granite City this weekend. Their hope: Secure a long-term commitment to keep the mill open beyond 2027.
- Mayors along the Mississippi River are pushing for changes in how the federal government prevents disasters.
In today’s deep dive, a first for the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign tomorrow. Learn about the space mission launch that could help make our electronics and air travel safer, coming up.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Dave Mckinney, Will Bauer, Kate Grumke and Madie Stover.
217 Today: Illinois professors face threats after landing on Charlie Kirk group watch list
Monday, September 22, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Political leaders from Illinois’ past and present sat in the pews of Central Baptist Church in Springfield on Saturday to attend the funeral services of former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar.
- Monday marks 40 years since the first Farm Aid event. The historic live music benefit has featured players like The Beach Boys, Bob Dylan and Tom Petty.
- A joint town hall Thursday night in Champaign focused on rising energy cost and recent cuts to social services.
- Students marched down the Quad at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign today to urge the school to divest from fossil fuels.
In today’s deep dive, dozens of professors at Illinois colleges and universities are on a watch list ran by slain activist Charlie Kirk’s organization.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mawa Iqbal, A. Oishii Basu, Anna Koh and Emily Hays.
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 is taking the field tomorrow against its first Big 10 opponent this season.
In today’s deep dive, “Predictor” is a play based on the real life story of Margaret Crane, who hasn’t always received credit for inventing the home pregnancy test.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Capitol News Illinois, Jonathan Matthew and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: WILL Call: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Sep. 18 – Sep. 21
Thursday, September 18, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Many kids who were part of Urbana’s first integrated elementary school class are still friends today.
- Illinois has successfully sued the Trump administration for the release of electric vehicle charger funding previously allocated by the Biden Administration.
- Illinois’ House Speaker says state lawmakers are prioritizing plans to give Illinoisans relief from rising energy prices.
- Sacred Harp singing is one of the oldest traditions in America.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Capitol News Illinois, Eric Stock, Stephanie Orellana, Kimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: International student enrollment increases at University of Illinois despite Trump policies
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- The Trump administration wants to limit how long visas can last for international students.
- Thanks to donations to the Robin Hall Fund for Public Art the Urbana Park District has purchased more sculptures for its permanent collection in recent years.
- Illinois based McDonald’s is making an investment to help accelerate regenerative grazing and water on ranches in up to 38 states.
- Rivian has begun construction on a long-delayed electric vehicle plant in Georgia. The automaker currently has one sole manufacturing facility in Normal, Illinois.
In today’s deep dive, enrollment is up a bit this fall at Northern Illinois University.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Oishii Basu, Lisa Dwyer, Ben Thomas and Peter Medlin.
217 Today: Politicians across party lines pay tribute to former Governor Jim Edgar, who died Sunday
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Childhood games created connections at last week’s Coffee Across Cultures Hour at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
- McLean County officials say they have swiftly and severely addressed a social media post from an employee approving of the killing of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk.
- Champaign-Urbana’s Mexican community gathered downtown Sunday night to celebrate Mexican independence with musical performances, dancing and food.
- Governor JB Pritzker says he and his family feel safe, in light of escalating political threats.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Sam Rink, Eric Stock, Adelyn Mui, Mawa Iqbal and Brian Mackey.
217 Today: Dean Clarence Shelley memorialized in new honorary street sign
Monday, September 15, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar has died. The Republican led the state from 19-91 through ’99.
- Former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar has died. He was moderate on social issues. But his fiscal restraint prompted critics to call him “Governor No.”
- A ceremony was held in Champaign Sunday for the unveiling of a street honoring the late Dean Clarence Shelley.
- Firefighters in Champaign County say residents should avoid open burning due to drought conditions in the area.
In today’s deep dive, the late Clarence Shelley was known for building community between faculty and students at the University of Illinois.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Brian Mackey, Arjun Thakkar, Mawa Iqbal and Adrien Reetz.
217 Today: Thinking of biking to work? These Champaign County residents shared why they did.
Friday, September 12, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Students on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus held an emotional tribute to Charlie Kirk last night
- On Thursday, dozens of local residents joined first responders for a ceremony at Champaign’s West Side Park to remember the events that took place at 9/11.
- A veteran from Central Illinois is one of around 50 people on boats off the coast of Tunisia hoping to bring humanitarian aid into Gaza.
- About 80 people gathered at the Champaign County Community Coalition meeting Wednesday to hear a panel of young men share their experiences with gun violence.
In today’s deep dive, Bike to Work Day was this week in Champaign County. Three cyclists share why they ride their bikes and what would make it easier to go for a bike ride in the area.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Layli Nazarova, Elissa Eaton, Mae Antar, Piotr Fedczuk and Arjun Thakkar.
217 Today: WILL Call: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Sep. 11 – Sep. 14
Thursday, September 11, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Enrollment is up for international students at the University of Illinois despite federal immigration policies.
- Illinois Public Media’s Executive Director Moss Bresnahan announced two people will be laid off due to federal funding cuts.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker says the Supreme Court is reversing years of progress.
- The Trump administration has targeted international students, revoking visas and reviewing visa holders.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Emily Hays, Arjun Thakkar, Mawa Iqbal, Kimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: When will beef prices drop? We asked a rancher, a butcher and an economist
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- A vehicle crash in Urbana that occurred earlier this year is part of the premise behind the Immigration and Customs Enforcement operation in Chicago and Illinois.
- University of Illinois alum and billionaire Larry Gies is making a 100 million dollar gift to the school’s athletics department.
- A republican candidate looking to unseat central Illinois congressman Darin LaHood says he has helped to create trillions of dollars of debt.
- Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is urging vigilance as the Supreme Court upholds immigration patrols in Los Angeles.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Kulsoom Khan, Jonathan Mathew, Eric Stock, Alex Degman and Michael Marks.
217 Today: Surfing in America’s heartland? You can catch waves even if you’re far from the ocean
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Teachers in Champaign are set to get a nearly 15 percent raise over the next three years in their new contract.
- It’s bike month in Champaign County. Local groups are hosting events throughout September to promote cycling in the area.
- The ELLNORA guitar festival kicked off the Krannert Center’s new season last weekend.
- The Trump administration is citing a hit-and-run incident involving a person without legal status that occurred in Urbana this year as part of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement operation in Chicago and Illinois.
In today’s deep dive, surfing isn’t just an ocean sport anymore. Landlocked residents from Wisconsin to central Texas are also catching waves.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Arjun Thakkar, Sam Rink, and Joe Schulz.
217 Today: What to know about algal blooms after Mattoon’s recent water crisis
Monday, September 8, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Over the weekend, the Krannert Art Museum in Champaign hosted families for an afternoon of storytelling, gallery exploration and hands-on activities.
- Today is 988 Day. This day is meant to raise awareness about the National Alliance on Mental Illness support hotline.
- A west suburban police department is sharing details about the inadvertent release of license plate data with federal immigration officials.
- Immigration officials will be limited in how they can use a suburban naval base as a staging ground this month.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Diana Zhang, Yvonne Boose, Mawa Iqbal, Alex Degman and Jim Meadows.
217 Today: Rantoul Mayor Samuel Hall talks first 100 days, engaging with youth, supporting economic development
Friday, September 5, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Students from all over Illinois are meeting in Chicago later this month to read their award-winning poetry.
- The Prairieland Punishers roller derby team is back in action this weekend in Bloomington with a first-of-its-kind event that skaters hope will help grow the sport.
- Urbana Mayor DeShawn Williams says there are no plans for the National Guard to be deployed to the city.
- Former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot is backing the Fair Maps ballot initiative to have Illinois’ state legislative districts drawn by an independent commission.
In today’s deep dive, Rantoul’s mayor says he’s been listening to the community for his first 100 days in office. Now, Samuel Hall says he’s focused on supporting local businesses and building an inclusive vision for the village.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Emily Hays, Ryan Denham, Arjun Thakkar, Mae Antar and Patricia Bradford.
217 Today: U of I will offer students on-campus abortion access starting this fall, following new Illinois law
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Organizers in East Central Illinois are taking part in a national movement to boycott products with ties to Israel and it’s war in Gaza.
- Illinois’ top attorney is ready to take the Trump administration to court over possibly deploying the National Guard and immigration agents to Chicago.
- Most of Illinois’ congressional Democrats have signed a strongly worded letter telling President Trump to keep troops out of Chicago.
In today’s deep dive, the University of Illinois will soon offer abortion services through a partnership with Planned Parenthood.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mae Antar, Mawa Iqbal, Alex Degman, Arjun Thakkar and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: “KPop Demon Hunters” lead actress Arden Cho talks about her days at the University of Illinois
Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Community members gathered in downtown Champaign yesterday for the annual Labor Day parade.
- The number one original movie on Netflix has a connection to the University of Illinois.
- Farmers from at least eight states recently gathered in Iowa for the Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day.
- Next year, “rewilding” will officially be a part of the conservation approach in Illinois.
In today’s deep dive, “KPop Demon Hunters” is the number one, original movie on Netflix. And the film’s lead actress, Arden Cho, is a University of Illinois graduate.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Guiliana Means, Emily Hays, Rachel Cramer and Jess Savage.
217 Today: Jim Meadows signs off for the final time
Friday, August 29, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- A quarter-billion dollar makeover for Champaign’s busiest interchange is one step closer to completion.
- Illinois Senator Dick Durbin is pushing back against President Trump’s reported plans to stage National Guard troops at the Great Lakes Naval Station north of Chicago.
- Carle Health says it’s preparing to see a lot more patients at its Urbana hospital as OSF HealthCare plans to shift some specialty services to other cities.
- Democratic Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski is pushing back against critics who say she hasn’t done enough to support an end to the war in Gaza.
In today’s deep dive, a final conversation with Illinois Public Media’s Jim Meadows after 25 years of reporting and hosting, he’s stepping into retirement.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Arjun Thakkar, Mae Antar and Kimberly Schofield.
217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Aug. 28 – Aug. 31
Thursday, August 28, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Driving just got easier for the nearly 40-thousand motorists who pass through Champaign’s busiest highway interchange every day.
- People who have survived shootings in Chicago say President Trump’s threats to send in troops will make the city less safe.
- A company that operates license plate reader cameras broke state law, according to the secretary of state Alexi Giannoulias.
- President Donald Trump has threatened to deploy the National Guard in Chicago, saying it’s needed to address crime.
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.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Reginald Hardwick, Capitol News Illinois, Katie O’Connell, Somer Van Benton, Kimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui.
217 Today: In court, hallucinations can overshadow A.I.’s promise in closing ‘access to justice’ gap
Wednesday, August 27, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- The Urbana Free Library’s new executive director says the library is working to preserve and promote local history.
- Illinois is renewing an effort to bring a new fertilizer production facility to East Central Illinois.
- President Donald Trump’s Monday executive order aims to take federal funding away from Illinois and other states that don’t use cash bail.
- Democratic Congressman Eric Sorensen says the Trump administration’s efforts to cut staff and close offices at the Social Security administration are part of an effort to privatize the program.
In today’s deep dive, a Central Illinois attorney was sanctioned for using A.I. in a brief with hallucinated cases.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Mae Antar, Arjun Thakkar, Capitol News Illinois, Erick Stock and Ryan Denham.
217 Today: Looking back on a century of broadcasting, Jim Meadows retires after years of reporting
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- With U of I classes back in session, the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District has returned to full bus service.
- Head Start centers in east-central Illinois celebrated their 60th anniversary this past weekend. The American Civil Liberties Union is trying to protect its future.
- Mayor Brandon Johnson has a message for President Trump and the National Guard: Stay out of Chicago.
- A central Illinois man will be detained awaiting trial for allegedly killing his unborn child.
In today’s deep dive, after 25 years covering city council meetings, storms and state fairs, Jim Meadows is about to retire from reporting here on Illinois Public Media.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Arjun Thakkar, Emily Hays, Mawa Iqbal, Erick Stock and Reginald Hardwick.
217 Today: Champaign-Urbana chancellor talks about federal funding cuts and his new office decor
Monday, August 25, 2025
Today’s headlines:
- Governor JB Pritzker is accusing President Trump of trying “to manufacture a crisis” in Chicago.
- The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s new chancellor, Charles Isbell, says he’s thrilled about the state’s investment in building a quantum computing research park in Chicago.
- 12 states will soon be able to exclude certain junk foods from purchases using the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program including Indiana.
- News media are now explicitly protected by a 2007 law aimed at stopping frivolous lawsuits that curtail participation in government.
In today’s deep dive, class is back in session at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a new chancellor is on campus.
217 Today is produced by Stephanie Orellana. Reporting today contributed by Anna Pope, Emily Hays, the Associated Press and Capitol News Illinois.