The 217 Today Podcast

217 Today: Looking back on a century of broadcasting, Jim Meadows retires after years of reporting

 

Illinois Public Media

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.

Tags