Illinois Public Media News

Food industry groups want to change the “sell by” and “use by” dates on products in order to cut down on food waste. Today, how to know when something is really expired, and how we can reduce food waste in our own kitchens. Plus, we’ll continue our weeklong series on summer reading. Today we’ll hear about nonfiction from librarians from across the state. And if you’re trying to learn a new language, you should do it as early as possible. That’s part of the reason more daycares and early childhood centers are teaching kids in more than one language. 

The Urbana City Council voted 6-0 Monday night to approve a redevelopment agreement to help finance a Maryland hotel developer’s plan to renovate and reopen the downtown Urbana Landmark Hotel.

The June numbers for the University of Illinois’ Flash Index show the Illinois economy’s growth rate has fallen for two months in a row. But the economist who compiles the index isn’t too concerned.

A federal mediator will begin overseeing negotiations Tuesday between the University of Illinois and the union representing 700 dining and building service workers at the Urbana campus. In a vote held Saturday, about 90% of union members voted to authorize a strike, according to a spokesperson for the SEIU Local 73 chapter at the U of I. The authorization allows the negotiating team to issue a strike notice if they feel it’s warranted.

Earlier this month, activists released video of alleged animal abuse at a farm in Indiana. So, who actually makes sure animals are treated humanely? And, all this week we’re bringing you some reading recommendations for the summer. Today, we’re starting off with fiction. Also, we'll have a preview of the Women's World Cup semi-final match between the U.S. and England. Plus, a Chicago investment firm recently bought Whataburger, one of Texas’ most beloved fast food chains.