Illinois Public Media News

Today on The 21st: we check in with reporters from around the state, preview the state legislative session that starts this week, and talk to an infectious disease expert about how to stay safe when stay-at-home restrictions are lifted.

For those with a little extra time on their hands, writer Elizabeth Segran says a new hobby is a great way to add structure to the day, find a bit of distraction, and even explore aspects of our identity. 

For music students, end-of-year recitals and concerts are not only celebratory milestones, but often are also mandatory requirements to earn degrees. 

How to have those tough but necessary conversations about staying home to stop the spread of the coronavirus. 

On today's encore broadcast of The 21st, talking social distancing with family, virtual recitals, and the importance of hobbies — and why the pandemic might be time to pick one up.

The new ESPN miniseries The Last Dance puts the Chicago Bulls dynasty and Michael Jordan back in the spotlight. 

High school seniors missed out on a lot this spring. Graduations are virtual for now, prom was cancelled, and in-person end-of-year celebrations will have to be put on hold or happen at a distance. There’s the additional worry and uncertainty many are facing about their fall semester at college. 

As the Illinois General Assembly plans its return to Springfield next week — the first meeting of the legislature since early March — we talk to Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford about what's on the agenda.

Today on The 21st: a conversation with Illinois Senate Majority Leader and Black Caucus Chair Kimberly Lightford, college students considering a "gap year," and a former Chicago Tribune sportswriter and central Illinois basketball player on the ESPN miniseries The Last Dance.