In-depth reporting from WILL, NPR, the Associated Press, and other sources
Contact WILL News at willnewsroom@illinois.edu
Imprisoned former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich is seeking a presidential commutation of the 14-year sentence he's serving for his corruption conviction. U.S. Department of Justice spokeswoman Dena W. Iverson said Friday the department has received a petition for commutation from Blagojevich.
Roberta Morris has been collecting 'little village' pieces for more than 20 years. It's paid off, with three years of displays at Urbana's Lincoln Square Mall, and at other charitable events in the area before that. Her glimpse of life in the 1950's now contains over 500 pieces. It's on display through New Year's Day.
On this encore edition of The 21st: We talked with Illinois musicians Sir the Baptist and Poster Children. Plus, we met Florida duo Black Violin and learned how they're using classical music and hip-hop to defy stereotypes.
One of the main arguments Great Lakes Basin Transportation Inc. has made in favor of its rail project is that it would act as an economic driver for the region. Company lawyer Mike Blaszak says construction would create a significant number of jobs.
What could the GLBR project mean for local economies? In the final installment of the Down the Line series, Guy Stephens talked with an enthusiastic Rochelle official and Chase Cavanaugh found more ambivalence from economic planners in Rockford about the potential value of the railroad.
