Illinois Public Media News

Just inside the main gate of the Illinois State Fair sits a cluster of white booths around a gazebo. At the entrances, signs read “Ethnic Village.” For nearly 40 years, fair-goers have found food from around the world as well as music and other performances. But this is the last year it will have that name.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently awarded grants totalling $2.1 million to address the opioid crisis in central Illinois and improve the quality behavioral health services. One of those recipients if Promise Healthcare in Champaign, which received nearly $167,000.

One southern Illinois community gathers forces together to prepare for the count.

The Illinois Republican Party’s top brass says it’s optimistic about its chances in 2020. Officials rallied the base Thursday at the Illinois State Fair.

Earlier this year, hundreds of books were removed from the college in prison program’s library inside the educational wing of the Danville prison. Documents obtained by Illinois Newsroom shine a light on why the books were removed, and who was responsible for their removal.

Cattle are a big source of greenhouse gas emissions. But if you graze them differently, it’s possible that all these cows could actually help the environment. Plus, when you think about Midwest food, there’s cheese, corn, soy... but what about shrimp? Scientists and farmers have been exploring raising saltwater fish in states like Illinois. And, recipes can be a way to remember our family, our friends and even our roots. We talk to food writer Niki Davis about sweets that may not be trendy, but taste like classics.

U.S. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi rallied with Illinois Democrats Wednesday in Springfield.

Children’s mental health is a big concern as the risk of suicide and opioid addiction rates rise among teens. But in rural areas, where mental health providers are scarce, spotting potential  problems can often fall to teachers. Now, a new national research center is looking to help rural schools.

State Treasurer Mike Frerichs is among the first Illinois officials to endorse a candidate in the 2020 Democratic presidential primary, and he's backing Elizabeth Warren.

Illinois’ medical marijuana program is getting a second wind. Governor J.B. Pritzker signed a pair of bills on Monday expanding who can get a medical card, and when they can use it.