As lawmakers consider raising taxes on the video gambling industry, ProPublica Illinois and WBEZ report on several powerful lawmakers from both parties who have direct financial ties to the industry. Plus, last week, activists and workers’ rights groups organized walkouts and filed lawsuits against McDonald’s, for everything from higher wages, union rights, and reports of violence in the workplace. And, if you’re planning to hit the road for the perfect summer day trip, we’ll speak with some of the artisans and restaurateurs featured as Illinois makers.

On The 21st: We talk about the politics of McLean County in Central Illinois. How are party leaders struggling with defining party labels and values? Also, we hear about a wellness study and the University of Illinois. But first, mega fast-food chain McDonald's is making some big changes to their brand, including partnering with Disney to provide toys for happy meals, 10 years after the companies parted ways. 

Activists in Champaign Wednesday took part in the nationwide 200-city protest for higher wages for McDonald’s workers.