Yingying Zhang's family to speak on August 22
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - The family of a University of Illinois scholar who was kidnapped in June 2017 is scheduled to speak to the public on August 22.
Lawmakers pushing to prohibit "penny-per-ounce" sugary drink tax
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - One local lawmaker is pushing for a new state law that would prohibit additional taxes on sodas, fruit juices, and flavored waters.
Illinois communities celebrate total solar eclipse
ILLINOIS (WAND) - Several central and southern Illinois communities celebrated Monday's total solar eclipse.
Champaign Man Charged with Murder for Weekend Shooting
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND): David Denson, a 28 year old champaign man, is being charged with 5 counts of first degree murder.
Shelbyville students watch eclipse
"I hope they remember it forever," said one teacher.
Mosquito control operations to begin in Macon County
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The Macon Mosquito Abatement District has announced it will take action against West Nile Virus-infected mosquitoes after increased numbers of infected mosquitoes found in traps placed in Macon County.
Ameren Illinois offering tips on avoiding utility scams
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Ameren Illinois officials say they will offer seniors tips on avoiding scams and improving their energy efficiency during a workshop on August 22.
Local Navy sailor among the missing
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - A local Navy sailor is among the missing when a US Navy guided-missile destroyer collided early Monday with an oil tanker east of Singapore.
New law exempts military personnel from CDL written test
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Current and former military personnel who wish to enter the trucking industry may be able to do so without taking the CDL written test, due to a new state law.
Decatur Police Department taking stand against impaired drivers
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The Decatur Police Department is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation and law enforcement agencies across the state to take a stand against impaired driving this Labor Day.
WIS hosts final workshop before August 23 job fair
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - If you're planning on attending State Representative Sue Scherer's job fair at Workforce Investment Solutions on Wednesday, you have one more opportunity to fine-tune your resume and interviewing skills.
Springfield man arrested for hate crime, aggravated battery
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Springfield police say one person was arrested on multiple charges after an incident at a bar on Friday.
Police looking for suspects who threw rock at 4-year-old
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – Decatur Police Department officials say they need help from public to find a group of people responsible for throwing rocks at a 4-year-old girl.
Millikin opens new University Commons
DECAUTR, Ill. (WAND) – Millikin University students are back on campus and this year they were welcomed with a new student center.
Man arrested for Champaign shooting, one dead
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Early Sunday morning, Champaign Police responded to a parking lot in the 300 block of North Walnut Street for reports of a shooting.
The final day for the Illinois State Fair
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The final day for the Illinois State Fair on Sunday.
Cunningham Children's Home gets new addition
URBANA, Ill. (WAND) - Cunningham Children's Home in Urbana broke ground Sunday afternoon on a new Education and Recreation Center.
Fire destroys semi-trailer off Greenswitch Road
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Decatur Fire responded to a fire off of Greenswitch Road around one on Sunday.
Running never tasted so good
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Running is one way to work up an appetite.
-
4-year-old hospitalized after getting hit in the head with a rock
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - A 4-year-old is in the hospital after getting hit in the head with a rock. Phylicia Cooper and her daughter Dalya Copper were driving down Jasper Street when a group of kids started throwing rocks into her car. Phylicia was going to turn around to hell at the kids, but when she looked back at Dalya she noticed her was bleeding. They drove straight to the hospital. Dalya suffered from a skull fracture. The kids who threw the rocks are still on the loose anyone... 
1 dead in Friday afternoon shooting in Springfield
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The Springfield Police Department is investigating a Friday afternoon shooting that left one man injured.
Run honors those who gave ultimate sacrifice
CHARLESTON, Ill. (WAND) - The 8th annual Run for the Fallen run/walk happened Saturday and honored men and women who sacrificed their lives for our country.
Touch a truck event lets kids explore different vehicles
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The Lutheran School Association's Parent, Teacher League hosted 'Touch a Truck' Saturday morning to give kids the chance to do something they usually would not be allowed.
-
Fatal crash claims one near Matrinsville
CLARK COUNTY, Ill. (WAND) - A fatal crash claims one near Martinsville on Friday evening. Illinois State Police are investigation the crash that happened on 1-70E at Milepost 140. Officials say a vehicle was traveling eastbound on 1-70, and come upon stopped traffic. The vehicle failed to stop and crashed into the back of the car in front of it, causing a chain of reaction pile-up with seven other vehicles. Police say one driver was pronounced... 
Comptroller urging override of Senate Bill 1 Amendatory Veto
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza is urging state lawmakers to come together and override Governor Rauner's Amendatory Veto of Senate Bill 1.
‘It only takes one, we ask you to be that one’
SHELBYVILLE, Ill. (WAND) – H.E.R.O is a Shelbyville group that encourages kids to put a stop to bullying.
First responders honored in fair ceremony
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois State Fair officials are honoring all police officers, firefighters, and EMTs by providing free admission on First Responders Day this Friday.
Man and his dogs clean town as a game
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Danielray Pickrel and his dogs, Ernest and Repeat, are often seen skating around downtown Decatur with a trash can.
ISP Trooper finds 4 pounds of heroin during traffic stop
EFFINGHAM, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois State Police say a large quantity of heroin was found during a routine traffic stop on Interstate 70 Thursday morning.
April EIU cold case still unsolved
CHARLESTON, Ill (WAND)- 23 year old Byron Edingburg was shot and killed on April 22 of this year at an off campus house party near Eastern Illinois University. Since, police are still unable to locate and arrest the shooter responsible. Edingburg was supposed to graduate in May of 2017 before he was killed. Hundreds of witnesses were in attendance at this party but police have yet to get a breakthrough. Detective with Charleston Police Dept. Tony West says, "we want ... 
Police: Fight leads to arm injury in shooting
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – Police say someone shot a man early Friday morning in Decatur.
Sixth man involved in woman's dismemberment sentenced
URBANA, Ill. (WAND) – A sixth man is headed to prison for his role in a woman’s dismemberment.
Millikin football player dies after near-drowning
ROLLA, Mo. (WAND) – A Millikin University football player has died after a swimming accident.
Local festivals kick off on August 18
ILLINOIS (WAND) - As the Illinois State Fair draws to a close, several other local festivals are just starting.
Kids enjoy healthy pasta creation
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – Kids at the Illinois State Fair wolfed down some healthy food on Friday.
University YMCA collecting items for Dump & Run Sale
CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (WAND) - The University YMCA is encouraging Champaign County residents to drop off gently-used, unwanted items on August 19 to help benefit the 16th Annual Dump & Run Sale.
Illinois domestic violence funding payments begin
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – Domestic violence shelters in Illinois could soon receive payments from Illinois.
Group wants Pana to Springfield four lane
Crews recently finished a four-lane highway between Taylorville and Springfield.
Organizations, state officials urging motorists to drive sober
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois Department of Transportation officials joined representatives from the Illinois State Police, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists to remind motorists of the importance of driving sober.
EIU leaders project positive enrollment trends
CHARLESTON, Ill. (WAND) – College students are moving into their dorms this week.
Man charged with punching, kicking pregnant girlfriend
PAXTON, Ill. (WAND) – A Paxton man is accused of kicking his pregnant girlfriend.
Treasurer Frerichs previewing items ahead of unclaimed property auction
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - State Treasurer Michael Frerichs is giving the public one more opportunity to check out unclaimed property that will be up for auction at the Illinois State Fair on August 19.
Lead Found in Urbana Grade Schools
URBANA, Ill. (WAND): A routine test returning unsavory results.
Decatur police investigating death of 2-year-old
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Decatur Police Department investigators say a 2-year-old girl is dead.
Governor may sign immigrant protection bill
ILLINOIS (WAND) – Gov. Bruce Rauner is considering signing a bill to protect Illinois immigrants.
Stomping out suicide
LINCOLN, Ill (WAND)- Depression and mental health issues plague so many people in today's society.
FEMA assessments on Illinois flooding damage to begin
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The Federal Emergency Management Agency is expected to begin flood damage assessments for four Illinois counties on Friday.
How to View Eclipse Without Glasses
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND): Solar eclipse glasses are deemed necessary for viewing but are increasingly harder to come by.
Chris Kennedy talks ties to Central Illinois
SPRINGFIELD, Ill (WAND)- Democratic Governor candidate Chris Kennedy was in Springfield for the annual Democrat Day at the state fair.
ISP arrests 2 in connection with death of missing woman
WILMINGTON, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois State Police say two men have been arrested on multiple charges in connection with the death of a 24-year-old Chicago woman.
Challenger for governor finds endorsement
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – A challenger for Illinois governor gained a follower Thursday.
Group rallies in support of House Bill 40
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Advocates of legislation that removes provisions that deny insurance coverage of abortions for women enrolled in Medicaid and State Employee Health Insurance gathered in Springfield to urge Governor Rauner to sign the bill into law.
Infant Swimming Resource classes expanding in central Illinois
Decatur, Ill. (WAND) – Kids love water, they’re drawn to it. If you have a pool or a pond in your yard, neighborhood, or daycare you may want your kid to be water ready.
Railroad reports Elkhart derailment cause
Report: a broken weld let a switch move while the train traveled across it.
Organizations honoring Decatur first responders
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Cruise 11 to Remember 9-11 officials are teaming up with Fleet Feet to honor first responders during the Community Memorial Service on September 10.
More than 100 pounds of marijuana found in McLean County
MCLEAN COUNTY, Ill. (WAND) - The McLean County Sheriff's Office has announced deputies recently found a large amount of marijuana within the county's limits.
No charges filed in Champaign officer-involved shooting
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Police have also released squad car video associated with the incident.
Illinois' unemployment rate slightly increases in July
CHICAGO (WAND) - The Illinois Department of Employment Security has announced that the state's unemployment rate slightly increased in July.
Student-run shop nears opening date
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – A new coffee shop is coming to the Decatur area.
Illinois leader announces sixth term push
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – Illinois’ Secretary of State says he will run for office again.
Millikin named in 'Best of the Midwest' college list
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – Millikin University was honored as a top institution in a recent survey.
Reduced adoption fee for black cats through September 16
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The Decatur & Macon County Animal Shelter is helping some of its more overlooked animals find forever homes during "Black Cat Appreciation Day."
Urbana School District #116 announces lead testing results
URBANA, Ill. (WAND) - Urbana School District #116 has announced that required lead testing of water fountains and sinks has been performed, with 11 sampled sites falling outside acceptable levels of lead content.
Gov. Rauner signs bill naming corn state grain
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Legislation that names corn the state grain of Illinois was signed into law by Governor Bruce Rauner.
Water main break causes clinic closure
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – A water main break forced a clinic building to shut down.
Police: Broom used in armed robbery
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – Police say a man robbed someone while using a broom as a weapon.
Organizers bring back Mary's Garden for third year
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - A community benefit garden tended to by the Good Samaritan Inn is returning for a third year.
International Overdose Awareness Day 5K kicks off August 29
MT. ZION, Ill. (WAND) - One local organization is raising awareness of drug overdoses through its Fifth Annual International Overdose Awareness Day 5K Run/Walk on August 29.
Senate passes resolution denouncing white nationalist, neo-Nazi groups
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - In response to the violence in Charlottesville, Virginia over the weekend, the Illinois Senate adopted a resolution urging law enforcement to recognize white nationalist and neo-Nazi groups as terrorist organizations.
Understanding your child's vaccination requirements
DECATUR, Ill (WAND)- By law, children attending public schools are required to get several vaccinations at certain ages.
Decatur police make arrest in 2016 sexual assault
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The Decatur Police Department has made an arrest in connection with a October 2016 criminal sexual assault.
Danville Girl Raises $900 from Lemonade Stand
DANVILLE, Ill. (WAND): Allie Cooper and her lemonade stand are a force to be reckoned with.
Gov. Rauner speaks out against President Trump's Charlottesville comments
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Governor Bruce Rauner is speaking out against President Donald Trump's comments on the violence in Charlottesville.
Effingham adds entertainment tax
Events like concerts and movies are subject to a 5 percent entertainment tax under a new ordinance.
Champaign school bus crash under investigation
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Champaign authorities are investigating a school bus crash that happened on the city's southeast side.
Shredding, recycling event coming to Champaign-Urbana
URBANA, Ill. (WAND) – Chances for the public to shred and recycle are coming up in Champaign-Urbana.
Missouri commission denies Grain Belt Express plan
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (WAND) - A project to build a multi-state electricity transmission line through several states, including Illinois, is facing a legal hurdle in Missouri.
Children plant, harvest food in fair experience
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – Children had a chance to help farmers at the Illinois State Fair.
Illinois House back next week to vote on education funding reform
SPRINGFIELD, Ill (WAND)- The Illinois House was in session on Wednesday but they did not take up an override vote of Governor Rauner's amendatory veto of SB1, instead they will do so next week.
Monticello brewery opens with help of community
MONTICELLO, Ill. (WAND) - A former church that has stood for more than 100 years in Monticello now houses a new brewing company that opened with the community's help.
Enjoy the Illinois State Fair from a different perspective
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Since 1969 people from all over who come to the fair have been able to enjoy it from a completely different perspective.
VA employees rally near Vermilion County Courthouse
DANVILLE, Ill. (WAND) - Veterans Affairs employees in Danville are rallying near the Vermilion County Courthouse to urge the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to fill more than 49,000 job vacancies throughout the country.
Crime Stoppers offering $5,000 for information on deadly shooting
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Springfield police continue to investigate an August 12 shooting that left one man dead. Detectives say Eric Robertson, 29, was shot by one of two unknown individuals in the 1700 block of East Edwards Street at 11 a.m.
Filled school bus involved in accident
CHARLESTON, Ill. (WAND) – Charleston school district leaders say carrying students was involved in an accident Wednesday.
Decatur students, new leader return to school
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – Decatur students returned to the classroom on Wednesday morning.
U.S. Representative makes stop in Lovington
LOVINGTON, Ill. (WAND) - U.S. Representative John Shimkus (R-IL) visited Lovington on Wednesday to check out two projects; one that aims to better connect rural residents to the internet, and another that works to stop algae blooms from polluting water.
Decatur Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home goes on the market
Decatur, Ill. (WAND) -- From the 100 art glass windows to the geometric woodwork, much of the home at 2 Millikin Place remains as it was in 1910.
Butter cow display continues drawing attention
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois State Fair officials gathered Wednesday in the Dairy Building at the fairgrounds to unveil the butter cow, or cows in this case.
Police escort son of fallen officer to school
JACKSONVILLE, Ill. (WAND) – Police took extra steps to help the son of a fallen officer.
'Priceless' state fair ticket now on display
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – A piece of Illinois State Fair history is now on display in Springfield.
Library recalls unsafe eclipse eyewear
MARSHALL, Ill. (WAND) – An Illinois library is asking for unsafe solar eclipse glasses to be returned.
Governor's Sale of Champions a success
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The 2017 Governor's Sale of Champions and 2017 Commodity Auctions were successful once again, with more than $133,000 in commodities and livestock auctioned off during the events.
Pillsbury Mills EPA Superfund cleanup in jeopardy
Springfield, Ill (WAND) – An EPA Superfund cleanup at the old Pillsbury Mills plant could run out of money stopping the removal of hazardous contaminants around Labor Day.
Fairgoers invited to check out adorable animals at FFA tent
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Fairgoers can learn more about how agriculture benefits the state while checking out adorable baby animals at the Illinois State Fair's FFA tent.
Steer showcased, sold at 'Sale of Champions'
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – Steers went up for sale at the Illinois State Fair Tuesday.
Retail loss costs cities
As retail chains close stores around the country, Central Illinois communities are dealing with the results.
Teacher, students named 'Illinoisans of the Day'
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – A teacher and his students earned an honor from the governor for helping a farmer.
Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County celebrating 100th build
URBANA, Ill. (WAND) - Habitat for Humanity of Champaign County is marking 25 years of serving the community with the celebration of its 100th home build on August 22.
Dog Haus opening in Decatur
Decatur, Ill (WAND) – A new restaurant is going into the old Ruby Tuesday building in Decatur. The Dog Haus will be located in the facility located at 4405 Route 36 East.
Decatur Public Schools get some color on sidewalks
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The day before Decatur Public Schools start back, school and community members gathered to brighten up the sidewalks.
ISP urging safety when traveling near school zones
EFFINGHAM, Ill. (WAND) - With the start of the 2017-2018 school year drawing near, Illinois State Police are urging motorists to be aware of children going to and coming home from school.
Danville police make arrest in theft of more than $100,000
DANVILLE, Ill. (WAND) - Danville police say an investigation into forgery and theft at an assisted living facility has resulted in one arrest.
Governor Rauner signs bill helping injured police dogs
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Legislation that would allow emergency medical services to transport injured police dogs to veterinary clinics has been signed into state law by Governor Bruce Rauner.
IEMA making safety preparations for total solar eclipse
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The Illinois Emergency Management Agency say state and local agencies are making preparations to ensure the public's safety before, during, and after the total solar eclipse on August 21.
Committee looks to raise Coliseum repair money
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – Help could be coming for a building at the Illinois fairgrounds that’s fallen into disrepair.
Man facing upgraded charge in Ramsey shooting
RAMSEY, Ill. (WAND) - A Fayette County man is now facing an upgraded charge in connection with an August 11 shooting in Ramsey.
First-year Millikin Students take first step toward new school year
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - First-year Millikin University students took the first step toward starting the school year by participating in Move-In Day on August 15.
Vehicle crashes in Springfield Schnucks, 1 arrested
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Springfield police say one person was arrested after crashing a vehicle into the front of a Schnucks store on the city's southwest side early Tuesday morning.
Coroner: Woman died from train collision injuries
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – Sangamon County leaders have identified a woman killed in a train collision.
-
Person injured by shattered glass in shooting
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) – Police say someone a shooting left someone injured Monday night.
University of Illinois to Consolidate Logo
URBANA, Ill. (WAND): The University of Illinois is officially finalizing their new logo.
Bringing together more than just runners
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – The Shoreline Classic brings in runners from all over, but it also brings a community together. The Shoreline Classic helps put money back into the Decatur community. One of the ways is during the registration process, it asks you to pick a near by school. From that, organizers will tally how many votes a school gets then with the profit made from registration fees a certain percentage will be given to the top schools voted by runners. ... 
Kayak flip claims Urbana man's life
HEBER CITY, Utah (WAND) – A central Illinois man died while kayaking in Utah.
Urbana nonprofit groups may earn city money
URBANA, Ill. (WAND) – Urbana’s city council is considering giving money to three different nonprofit groups.
Porch fire leaves smoke damage, broken window
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) – Firefighters say they quickly put out a house fire Tuesday morning.
Buffett Foundation donates $1 million to Dove, Inc.
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Dove, Inc. received a large donation from the Howard G. Buffett Foundation to help stabilize the finances of the Dove Domestic Violence Program.
-
Discounted admission during Illinois State Fair's Agriculture Day
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The Governor's Sale of Champions, truck and tractor pulls, and live music are just some of the featured attractions during Agriculture Day at the Illinois State Fair.
1 dead, 1 injured in ATV vs. semi crash
JERSEY COUNTY, Ill. (WAND) - Investigators say one girl is dead and another severely injured after two-vehicle crash involving an ATV and a truck-tractor semi-trailer in southeastern Illinois Friday afternoon.
Decatur 9/11 Memorial I-Beam makes final journey
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - An I-Beam from the World Trade Center is making its final journey before being encased in the Decatur 9/11 Memorial.
Decatur witness talks deadly Virginia protests
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WAND) – A Decatur man says he was in Virginia when protests turned deadly.
Illinois State Police searching for missing Du Quoin man
DU QUOIN, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois State Police are seeking the public's help in find a missing southern Illinois man.
-
Total solar eclipse set to arrive in Illinois
ILLINOIS (WAND) – Illinoisans only have to wait one more week for the total solar eclipse.
Unemployment tax system upgrades take effect next month
ILLINOIS (WAND) - Illinois Department of Employment Security officials say businesses will be able to file reports and pay unemployment insurance taxes online starting next month.
Olney man injured in motorcycle crash
CLAY COUNTY, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois State Police say one person was seriously injured in a motorcycle crash in Clay County early Monday morning.
Retired Astronaut to Speak at Champaign Library
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND): A retired astronaut will be talking about space flight in champaign this evening.
Cats Saved from Hoarding Situation Finding Homes
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND): 60 cats saved from a hoarding situation last week are finding their "fur"ever homes.
Free, reduced price school lunch guidelines released
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Eligibility guidelines for free and reduced-price lunch, breakfast, and after-school snacks through the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program for the 2017-2018 school year have been released.
Workforce Investment Solutions offering workshop before job fair
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Workforce Investment Solutions is hosting one more job seeker preparation course before State Representative Sue Scherer's Job Fair on August 23.
Produce judged in state fair contest
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – Illinoisans are putting their vegetable-growing skills to the test at the Illinois State Fair.
Gov. Rauner signs local government streamlining bills
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Two bills that would allow local officials and residents to consolidate units of local government has been signed into law by Governor Bruce Rauner.
-
1 injured in Saturday morning shooting in Danville
DANVILLE, Ill. (WAND) - The Danville Police Department is investigating a shooting on the city's east side early Saturday morning.
U of I announces campus logo overhaul
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) – The University of Illinois has made its logo upgrade official.
Thunderbirds refuel in Savoy on trip to base
SAVOY, Ill. (WAND) – A military plane group made a stop in central Illinois Monday.
Wolf pups arrive at Scovill Zoo
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – Two new furry friends can now be seen at the Scovill Zoo. The brothers, Niko and Koda, arrived at the zoo over the weekend.
Rauner speaks out on Virginia rally death
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WAND) – Governor Bruce Rauner is speaking out after an Ohio man plowed his car into counter-protesters at a white nationalist rally over the weekend.
Law prevents programs from expelling preschool students
ILLINOIS (WAND) – A new Illinois law is meant to protect preschool-aged children from expulsion.
Signed law removes sexual assault report deadlines
ILLINOIS (WAND) – A law signed by Gov. Bruce Rauner will look to help sexual assault victims find closure.
Winning Powerball ticket sold in Raymond
RAYMOND, Ill. (WAND) – A Raymond store has sold a million-dollar Powerball ticket.
Old WAND van makes appearance at Rip Roarin' Redneck Extravaganza
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Greg's Towing and Recovery company hosts Rip Roarin' Redneck Extravaganza where junk cars fly through the air and land sometimes on another vehicle.
A vigil in Springfield pays respects to victims from Charlottesville protests
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - A peaceful vigil in downtown Springfield on Sunday paid respects to the victims from the Charlottesville, Virginia protests.
Senate votes to over-ride the Governors amendatory veto on school funding
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Lawmakers met in Springfield on Sunday to vote on school funding.
Pedestrian killed, train incident
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The Sangamon County Coroner's Office says a woman is dead after an apparent train versus pedestrian incident.
Springfield morning homicide victim identified
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Springfield Police are investigation a homicide on Saturday morning.
Dance Centre hosts Fairy Tale Festival
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Fairy Tale Festival was the theme of the Dance Centre's open house Saturday.
Springfield armed robbery investigation
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Springfield Police are investigation an armed robbery that happened Friday morning.
Decatur church gets kids back-to-school ready
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - First Christian Church hosted their annual Jumpstart Back-to-School event Saturday morning.
Strides for Down Syndrome in Fairview
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Dozens gathered in Fairview Park on Saturday for the Strides for Down Syndrome.
Crossing Healthcare hosting "Jump Start Back-To-School" clinics
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Crossing Healthcare is teaming up with First Christian Church of Decatur to provide free medical screenings on August 12 for Decatur students returning to school.
Buy the Block: The Dream Center
DECATUR, Ill (WAND)- Taking an old vacant building and revitalizing it into a 'Dream Center' for the youth in Decatur. That is the dream of Jacob Jenkins.
Staying safe during the total solar eclipse
ILLINOIS, Ill. (WAND) - With the total solar eclipse drawing nearer, it's important that you have the right eye wear for the occasion.
Haircut makes a big difference
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - A Blue Mound boy has grown his hair out for nearly four years, but not just because he likes long hair.
-
School funding showdown looming
Springfield, Ill (WAND) – A big showdown Sunday as the legislature tries to figure out a way to put a new school funding formula into place.
Carnival, concerts available in Blue Mound festival
BLUE MOUND, Ill. (WAND) – A fall festival is bringing families out to play this weekend.
APL cashes in on State Fair
SPRINGFIELD, Ill (WAND)- Restaurants, bars, hotels all see a boost in business during the Illinois State Fair, but one local non-profit cashes in as well.
Local museum seeking community's support in replacing roof
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The African-American Cultural & Genealogical Society of Illinois Museum is seeking the community's help in replacing a recently damaged roof.
Nonprofit begins interior work for family home
SANGAMON COUNTY, Ill. (WAND) – A nonprofit business is renovating yet another house.
H.E.R.O. raises money for Shelbyville Moulton Middle School
SHELBYVILLE, Ill. (WAND) - A community organization that aims to educate people about the effects of bullying has raised $1,500 for a middle school in Shelbyville.
Cats up for adoption after 'hoarding' rescue
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) – Cats are up for adoption in central Illinois.
Man found guilty of 2016 armed robbery, vehicular invasion
DANVILLE, Ill. (WAND) - A Vermilion County man is facing a minimum of two decades in prison after being convicted of armed robbery and vehicular invasion.
-
Fayette County man facing charges in Ramsey shooting
RAMSEY, Ill. (WAND) - A Fayette County man is in custody after an early morning shooting in Ramsey.
Police: Connection possible in shots fired reports
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) – Champaign police are investigating several reports of shots fired between Thursday and Friday.
The Kaskaskia dragon continues to bring magic to the Vandalia community
VANDALIA, Ill. (WAND)- Road side attractions aren't as common as they use to be, but one road side attraction Vandalia is keeping more than old traditions alive. "The first time I met it, it was in a parade. Walt had brought it to a parade and I thought wow what a neat idea,” says Ricky J. Gottman the mayor of Vandalia. “I didn't realize it would ever bring the amount of tourism to our community that it has." When we think of dragons we usually don't thi... 
Google awards 4-H computer science grant
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – Google has announced a nationwide computer science partnership.
-
Police: Armed man demanded money at Dotty's
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – Police say a man tried to steal from a business Friday morning.
Sangamon County authorities seize 34 dogs from home
SANGAMON COUNTY, Ill. (WAND) - The Sangamon County Sheriff's Office says 34 dogs were seized from a home near Sherman this week.
Illinois State Fair rides pass inspection
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - All rides at the Illinois State Fair have passed their initial inspections.
Twilight Parade Highlights
SPRINGFIELD, Ill (WAND)- With an introduction by the Governor himself, the beginning of the Illinois State Fair kicked off Thursday at 3:00 p.m.
Opioid epidemic declared a national emergency
ILLINOIS (WAND) - While federal officials decide whether to utilize more federal money to combat the opioid epidemic, the battle against overdoses continues across the country, including here in central Illinois.
Illinois Made, Illinois Proud: Fuyao Glass
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Several years ago, one Macon County glass plant nearly shut its doors for good. One company, however, stepped in, saving the plant and many local jobs.
Pana breaks ground on hospital makeover
PANA, Ill. (WAND) – A central Illinois hospital hopes to improve patient comfort with a renovation.
Illinois American Water decommissioning water treatment plant
URBANA, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois American Water has announced it begin to decommission a water treatment plant in Urbana, starting next week.
GE turning off the lights at Mattoon plant
Mattoon, Ill (WAND) – As the lighting industry moves to LED and other technologies older manufacturing plants are being shuttered. The GE plant in Mattoon is one of them.
2017 Illinois State Fair opens with ribbon cutting
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Governor Bruce Rauner was joined by Lieutenant Governor Evelyn Sanguinetti and State Fair directors, managers, and others to celebrate the official start to the 2017 Illinois State Fair.
Pritzker picks Representative Juliana Stratton as running mate
CHICAGO, Ill (WAND)- JB Pritzker, Democratic candidate for governor announced Thursday, Representative Juliana Stratton, D-Chicago, would be his running mate.
Police: Convicted felon stole cigarettes
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – Police say a convicted felon tried to steal from a Wal-Mart.
Dive team finds drowned man in Hillery private pond
HILLERY, Ill. (WAND) - The Vermilion County Sheriff's Office says a 71-year-old man is dead after his boat capsized in a private pond in Hillery Wednesday morning.
Parents, lawmakers urge support of education funding reform
SPRINGFIELD, Ill (WAND)- Days before the Illinois Senate is due back in session for a likely override vote of Governor Rauner's amedatory veto of Senate Bill One, supporters of the education funding reform bill gathered to show their support.
IDOA hosting Senior Day activities at the Illinois State Fair
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The Illinois Department on Aging says it is hosting a wide variety of activities at the Illinois State Fair during Senior Day on August 14.
Employers preview tax filing system
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – Illinois employers will soon have access to a new tax filing system.
Decatur police honor 14 with Exemplary Citizen Awards
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The Decatur Police Department honored 14 people for their help in going above and beyond in helping police fight crime.
Illinois misses school payments, sends grant money
ILLINOIS (WAND) – Illinois leaders say the state missed payments to public K-12 schools for the first time.
1 dead in four-vehicle Cumberland County crash
CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois State Police say one person is dead after a four-vehicle crash in Cumberland County Wednesday afternoon.
Macon Resources seeking employees for open positions
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Macon Resources, Inc. is inviting the public to attend a hiring event in Decatur Thursday afternoon.
Illinois State Fair passes available for purchase online
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - If you're planning on attending the Illinois State Fair this year, you can now purchase gate admission, parking passes, and carnival mega passes online.
Sheriff to step down, spend time with family
SANGAMON COUNTY, Ill. (WAND) – Sangamon County’s sheriff says he plans to step down.
'Respect' earns Clinton man fire chief job
CLINTON, Ill. (WAND) – The city of Clinton has named a new fire chief.
Burglar uses circular saw in theft attempt
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) – Investigators are looking for a man they say tried to steal from a restaurant.
'Heavy' Decatur fire damages garage
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – A garage fire forced someone to move out Wednesday.
Balloon bucket list
DECATUR, Ill (WAND)- Michael Dawson is battling terminal brain cancer. But however, difficult the journey has been he continues to keep a smile through the pain.
Vermilion County authorities searching for drowning victim
HILLERY, Ill. (WAND) - Vermilion County authorities are searching for a drowning victim in unincorporated Hillery.
Governor: Signed bill to streamline spending, save money
CHICAGO (WAND) – A newly signed bill will look to streamline spending in Illinois.
Classic Car shop goes up in flames
STAUNTON, Ill (WAND)- An iconic car shop along Interstate 55 is cleaning up the ashes after a fire tore through a storage shed containing more than 100 cars.
Company hosts free community carnival
DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) – A carnival looked to bring the Decatur community together this week.
Current Events
Agribusiness Today
Get your agribusiness report here!
Web Exclusives
Here at WAND we strive to bring you the latest coverage on news happening across central Illinois, and this page is a continuation of that effort.