217 Today: Illinois DCFS director cites progress, says more changes are needed
In today’s deep dive, we’ll listen to a conversation with the head of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services about the department’s progress and future changes.
A look back at the late Zakir Hussain’s performances in Urbana
Renowned Indian musician Zakir Hussain, who died this week, performed twice in Urbana within the last few years.
Former Madigan ally contradicts past statements after being ordered to testify
Ex-state Rep. Eddie Acevedo was forced to take the stand during the Madigan trial despite objections over his dementia.
217 Today: Women are a growing segment of hunters. But keeping them in the sport remains a challenge
In today’s deep dive, we’ll learn about the barriers women face as they try to break into the sport of hunting.
Sam Banks is third school board member to resign from Champaign Unit 4 this year
Sam Banks is the third Champaign Unit 4 school board member to resign this year. All three have cited unproductive tensions in the group.
More of the nation’s milk supply will be tested for bird flu under a new federal rule
The new strategy aims to pinpoint where bird flu exists in the U.S. and halt its spread. There have been hundreds of cases in cattle and dozens in humans.
217 Today: What to know about an effort to make college in Illinois more affordable
In today’s deep dive, we’ll learn how expensive college has become and how a group of state politicians and advocates plans to change that.
Rhythm and roots: The restorative power of Black holiday music
From the tone and tenor of Black holiday music, what brings the spirit more than sounds that bring a community together?
Illinois teachers urging lawmakers to help them use artificial intelligence safely in the classroom
A group of teachers have published a report through the nonprofit Teach Plus asking the General Assembly to provide guidance to schools “with urgency.”
217 Today: Midwest builders are using wood in a new way to construct high rises. And it’s climate-friendly
In today’s deep dive, we’ll learn about a new climate-friendly way builders are using wood.
Lobbyist testifies ‘loyalty’ to Madigan led him to make payments to ousted staffer
After nearly a dozen years working for Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, Tom Cullen went out on his own in 1999, building up a lengthy roster of diverse – and often high-paying – clients that kept him busy.
Temperatures in the single digits greet Central Illinoisans, light snowfall expected
Central Illinoisans woke up to freezing temperatures Thursday morning with light snow expected to fall starting in the afternoon.
217 Today: Amidst a biodiversity crisis, these Champaign County groups are working to restore native ecosystems
In today’s deep dive, we’ll learn more about the efforts to increase biodiversity in east-central Illinois.
Amidst a biodiversity crisis, these Champaign County groups are working to restore native ecosystems
The Midwest has seen an incredible loss of native prairies and wetlands over the past few centuries. The changes have been driven primarily by farming and urban sprawl. But in east-central Illinois, several initiatives aim to bring back native ecosystems.
WILL Call: What’s Happening in Champaign-Urbana Dec. 12 – Dec. 15
Listen to Kimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui talk about weekend events on IPM News AM 580 and FM 90.9 –
Former Madigan ally ordered to testify in ex-speaker’s corruption trial
Former state Rep. Eddie Acevedo was summoned to the Dirksen Federal Courthouse so the judge overseeing former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s corruption trial could evaluate whether he’s fit to testify.
Pro-Palestinian protester charged with Mob Action seeks to dismiss charges
Charges are moving forward against protesters involved in a pro-Palestinian demonstration in April on the University of Illinois campus.
FBI Director says he intends to resign at end of Biden’s term in January
FBI Director Christopher Wray told the bureau workforce Wednesday that he plans to resign at the end of President Joe Biden’s term in January.
Keep up with news in Central Illinois every weekday with 217 Today. Hear the day's headlines, along with one deeper dive, in just ten minutes. Learn about the people and places that make Central Illinois unique with 217 Today.
Meet the team
Reginald Hardwick
News & Public Affairs Director
Jim Meadows
All Things Considered Host & Harvest Public Media reporter
Arjun Thakkar
Senior Editor
Kimberly Schofield
Morning Edition Host & Arts reporter
Mae Antar
Weekend Edition Host & reporter
David Pierce
Reporter
Kennedy Vincent
Black & Immigrant Communities Reporter & Dialogue Host
Emily Hays
Reporter
Steve Morck
Senior Digital Media Producer
Stephanie Mosqueda
Producer
Brian Mackey
Host of The 21st
Jose Zepeda
Producer on The 21st
Christine Hatfield
Producer on The 21st
