Illinois Public Media News

A report from the National Center for Farmworker Health found that more than 3,000 seasonal workers have tested positive for COVID-19. The 21st speaks to a health reporter for WILL’s Illinois Newsroom and Side Effects Public Media who's been following the story and two individuals from the Community Health Partnerships of Illinois organization.

Chicago-based astronomer Lucianne Walkowicz has filed a trademark lawsuit against toy-maker Mattel and American Girl, alleging that the company stole Walkowicz's likeness for their 2018 girl of the year doll, Luciana Vega.

Illinois had to face the coronavirus pandemic early, and months of restrictions curbed the spread of the disease. But now that businesses have largely reopened, cases are creeping back up.

Many industries are taking a hit due to the coronavirus, this is especially true for the airline companies. The 21st speaks to the President and Directing General Chair of IAM District 141, the union representing machinists and aerospace workers at nearly a dozen airlines.

Big Hat Rodeo, a company based in the northern Illinois town of Harvard, would have been celebrating its 100-year-anniversary putting on rodeos in and around the midwest this year. The 21st speaks to members of the rodeo community to talk about the atmosphere of a rodeo and why it is so compelling and meaningful to many parts of Illinois.

You know that saying, “This entire meeting could have been an email”? Many of us lucky enough to do our jobs from home during the pandemic have learned most of our offices could have been an email, and some of us are not excited about going back.
 

The 21st explores rural mental health in Illinois, particularly as it relates to farmers and how the pandemic has put additional strain on farming communities.

Acclaimed singer-songwriter John Prine was actually from Maywood, Illinois and worked as a mailman, which inspired his songwriting. The 21st speaks to the author of the biography, “John Prine: In Spite of Himself.” to talk more about how Prine's Illinois roots inspired his music. 

It can be hard to make an informed decision and navigate the questions that living in the COVID-19 era brings up. The 21st speaks to Borwn University economics professor Emily Oster on developing a framework for evaluating risk, and making the best decision for you and your loved ones.