DOT Grant Gives MTD $17 Million For Terminal Expansion
CHAMPAIGN – The largest piece of the funding pie is now in place for the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District’s Illinois Terminal expansion. That’s after the US Department of Transportation awarded the MTD a grant of more than $17-million for the project. The Illinois Terminal expansion is part of the larger proposed Yards development, which would include a new downtown hotel and conference center along with a new arena for a yet-to-be-announced University of Illinois varsity hockey team. – Brian Moline, Illinois Newsroom
Men Of Color Experience Racism While Using Online Platforms
URBANA – Gay and bisexual men of color who use online platforms to find romantic partner experience racial discrimination in various forms. That’s according to a recent study led by University of Illinois social work professor Ryan Wade. Speaking on The 21st show, Wade said sexual racism includes anything from a person being told they’re not desirable because of their race to erotic objectification of entire racial groups. Wade said the anonymity offered on many digital platforms may embolden people to express their racist views. – Christine Herman, Illinois Newsroom
Fewer Hunters In Illinois Means Fewer Conservation Efforts
SPRINGFIELD – Conservation officials in Illinois are trying to overcome a near half-century of declining participation in hunting. Jared Duquette with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources said as state revenue declines from hunting licenses and the sale of firearms, ammunition and archery equipment, the state has had to cut back on conversation efforts. Duquette said the IDNR is looking for new revenue streams from outdoor activities that are becoming more popular such as hiking. The state is also promoting its online ‘Learn to Hunt’ program. – Eric Stock, WGLT Radio
State Board of Education Wants Info On Seclusion Rooms
SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Board of Education is encouraging anyone with information about abusive time out rooms or restraints in any school setting to share that information directly with the agency. The request follows a report by the Chicago Tribune and ProPublica documenting thousands of instances of children, usually with special needs, placed in seclusion in their schools. The board has already implemented emergency rules banning isolated seclusion as well as restraints that could make it hard for a child to breathe or speak normally. Anyone with relevant information can email statecomplaints@isbe.net – Dusty Rhodes, NPR Illinois