New Law Will Force Insurers To Pay Death Benefits
Beginning in 2018, insurance companies must become more diligent in notifying beneficiaries of life insurance policies.
A regional journalism collaboration focused on expanding access to trusted, timely and relevant information across three key statewide topics: Education, Political Impact and Health/Environment
Local Human Services Group Recovers After Budget Crisis, Looks To Future
As we look back on 2017, one of the big stories was the two-year budget crisis that finally came to an end. The lack of a budget hit several human service agencies hard, including Champaign-based Courage Connection.
Champaign & Urbana Activate Sidewalk Snow Removal Requirements
In the wake of a Christmas Eve snowfall that dropped 3.2 inches of snow on the area, the cities of Urbana and Champaign have activated their sidewalk snow removal requirements for certain areas with high pedestrian traffic.
Illinois Issues: Stories Of The Year
Illinois lawmakers ended the state budget impasse and made big changes to how the state pays for public schools. The state also wrestled with the debate over abortion and a nationwide rise in hate incidents.
Thomas Fire Is Now California’s Largest Wildfire In History
Thousands of firefighters and fleets of aircraft have been battling the deadly Thomas fire since December 4.
First Christian Church In Champaign To Host Hundreds Christmas Day
Champaign-Urbana area residents who would otherwise be alone on Christmas Day have the chance for food and fellowship at First Christian Church in Champaign.
Meteorologist Says White Christmas Likely For Champaign-Urbana
The first measureable snowfall of the season in Champaign-Urbana may come just in time for a white Christmas.
How Did The Soybean Become Such A Common Crop In The U.S.?
This story was inspired by a question submitted at a Listening Post the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting held in August. Stuart Levy in Urbana, Illinois, asked us what would be needed for row crop farmers to switch from corn and soybeans to “something more sustainable.” We dug into that question, which starts with the unlikely circumstances that turned the soybean into a multi-billion dollar industry, and what this history might reveal about the future of U.S. agriculture.
Bah Humbug: High Gas Prices Greet Holiday Motorists
If you’re hitting the road for holiday travel, be ready to pay more at the gas pump.
Sweeping Changes To U.S. Tax Code A Mixed Bag For Farmers, Rural Hospitals
Many rural businesses and farms will benefit from the tax overhaul passed Wednesday by Congress. But there’s a catch: If the changes fail to spur economic growth as intended, programs that rural areas rely on could be on the chopping block.
