Illinois Public Media News

A University of Illinois analysis says the state received about $53 million less in a recent bond sale than it could have because of Illinois' poor financial shape.  Martin Luby with the University of Illinois’ Institute of Government and Public Affairs compared the recent bond sale to one in 2006, when Illinois had a much better credit rating.

The Twin City Derby Girls now has secured a downtown Champaign site for its future practices and bouts - but it will take about $20,000 and some construction work.  Last month, the roller derby team secured a 3-year lease for the former McKinley YMCA building on Church Street.

Champaign city leaders have removed a requirement that apartments in the Campustown neighborhood provide parking.  While developers are still expected to provide some space for cars, goals of the ordinance include less cars on campus, a more urban design, and giving developers the freedom to build the structures they want.

Illinois lawmakers ended 2015 with a lot of unfinished business.  Illinois Public Radio Statehouse Bureau Chief Amanda Vinicky previews what's ahead for the new legislative session ... in our latest Illinois Issues In-Depth report.

Macomb-based musician Chris Vallillo does shows featuring the music of the American civil rights movement.  Vallillo's new CD, "Oh Freedom" features some of those songs.