The Leadoff: Recent Episodes
WGLT
WGLT's The Leadoff is a daily dose of Bloomington-Normal news, arts and culture, and music. Every day on WGLT's daily podcast, we'll deep-dive into one local story. Then we'll get you ready for the day (or the weekend) with a look ahead with WGLT reporters and guests from the community. Available by 7 a.m. every weekday.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, June 2, 2023. You'll hear about Reps. Darin LaHood and Eric Sorensen's votes on the debt limit bill. Plus, a preview of Heartland Theatre's 10-Play Festival with WGLT's Lauren Warnecke.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, June 1, 2023. You'll hear about The Salvation Army looking for help cooling people off during this heat wave. Plus, WGLT's Statehouse reporter recaps the busy spring legislative session.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, May 31, 2023. You'll hear about a mentoring program for women to work alongside state lawmakers. Plus, an interview with McLean County History Makers Charles and Willie Halbert.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, May 30, 2023. You'll hear about the potential for prevailing wages being required for construction of a Bloomington housing project. Plus, an interview with the McLean County Fatherhood Coalition.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, May 26, 2023. You'll hear about a big name change for Children's Home & Aid, a nonprofit that works in Bloomington. Plus, an interview with two District 87 leaders.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, May 25, 2023. You'll hear about gender imbalances in higher education enrollment, including in central Illinois. Plus, McLean County's Social Justice Walking Tour goes virtual.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, May 24, 2023. You'll hear about Sen. Dick Durbin's visit to Bloomington. Plus, an interview with one of the developers working on an $18.5 million housing project near downtown Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, May 23, 2023. You'll hear about the results of a survey of internet service in rural McLean County. Plus, how the post-pandemic era may be an opportunity for community health workers in Illinois.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, May 22, 2023. You'll hear about the bill changing Central Illinois Regional Airport's tax base which has now won final approval in Springfield. Plus, an interview with YWCA McLean County about expansion plans for its rape crisis center.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to start your day for Friday, May 19, 2023. You'll hear about asbestos removal planning at the Normal Public Library. Plus, a preview of this weekend's "History of Beer in Bloomington" event at Keg Grove Brewing.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, May 18, 2023. You'll hear about the late Parker Lawlis, a former Normal Town Council who recently died at age 88. Plus, part two of our series about maternal care deserts in rural Illinois.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, May 17, 2023. You'll hear about a concerning spike in gun violence in Bloomington, as seen in the police department's latest annual report. Plus, why rural hospitals are closing their baby units.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, May 16, 2023. You'll hear about the rebranding of a community garden on Bloomington's west side. Plus, you'll learn about a long COVID study focused on Central Illinois.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, March 15, 2023. You'll hear about Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' visit to central Illinois. Plus, meet the 93-year-old crossing guard who's become something of a celebrity in the neighborhood around Glenn Elementary in Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, May 12, 2023. You'll hear about how the end of the COVID emergency impacts access to vaccines and testing locally. Plus, an interview with a new appointee to a state clean energy board.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, May 11, 2023. You'll hear about a long-lost painting turning up at Bloomington Public Library. Plus, the Ecology Action Center shares some pointers on how to recycle in Bloomington-Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, May 10, 2023. You'll hear the latest on the investigation into the death of an Illinois State University alum who was a Chicago cop. Plus, meet one of Bloomington-Normal's best cake makers.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, May 9, 2023. You'll hear about the return to school in Olympia, where a fire damaged a building. Plus, an interview with Democratic U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen during a recent Twin City visit.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, May 8, 2023. You'll hear about high-speed passenger rail's impact on Bloomington-Normal. Plus, Lyndsay Jones looks at the homeschooling community in McLean County.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, May 5, 2023. You'll hear about Easterseals Central Illinois being desperate to hire more camp counselors at Timber Pointe. Plus, an Illinois Wesleyan University alum's writing career takes flight.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, May 4, 2023. You'll hear about another Bloomington nonprofit making changes and reevaluating after a recent fire code inspection. Plus, Alan Sender from the Bloomington-Normal Airport Authority board talks about a proposal to expand the airport's tax base countywide.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, May 3, 2023. You'll hear about JOLT Harm Reduction's expansion into McLean County. Plus, an interview with Normal Mayor Chris Koos about the council's decision to allow more cannabis dispensaries.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, May 2, 2023. You'll hear about the interim athletics director at ISU on her first day on the job. Plus, Charlie Schlenker talks to the incoming CEO of Bloomington-based Heartland Bank and Trust.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, May 1, 2023. You'll hear about a recent audit of ISU's Athletics department, in the wake of that costly donor trip. Plus, a new edition of Beyond Sports takes a local look at the transfer portal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, April 28, 2023. You'll hear about Sunday's Fair Housing Affair at the YWCA McLean County. Plus, a preview of a Mayan show at the ISU Planetarium, running weekends through May 6.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, April 27, 2023. You'll hear about Illinois Wesleyan University's efforts to get its nursing program off probation. Plus, a Cornell philosopher speaks to an ISU audience about mansplaining and misogyny.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, April 26, 2023. You'll hear about the importance of organ donation. Plus, how the end of expanded SNAP benefits is impacting a Normal food bank.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, April 25, 2023. You'll hear about efforts to bring a grocery store closer to the ISU campus. Plus, an interview with the curator of a show in Uptown Normal for Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, April 24, 2023. You'll hear about additional impacts of staff shortages at the McLean County jail. Also, get some tips for navigating the Ewing Cultural Center in Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, April 21, 2023. You'll hear about asbestos removal planning at Normal Public Library. Plus, an interview with ISU's interim president about the way forward for ISU Athletics.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, April 20, 2023. You'll hear about Bloomington Mayor Mboka Mwilambwe's testimony in Springfield on a key source of tax revenue. Plus, a 1960s fashion show comes to Illinois State University.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, April 19, 2023. You'll hear about ISU alum Jane Lynch's return to campus for a 3-week Visiting Artist residency. Plus, a look at the shortage of firefighters in Bloomington-Normal and beyond.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, April 18, 2023. You'll hear about what it will take to reopen Olympia's high school and middle school after last week's fire. Plus, an interview with McLean County Sheriff Matt Lane.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, April 17, 2023. You'll hear about climate change's impact on a maple sirup producer just southwest of Bloomington-Normal. Plus, a new book chronicles life in the punk rock band Poster Children.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, April 14, 2023. You'll hear about the resignation of Illinois State University's athletics director. Plus, Bloomington hosts citywide Slow Art Day festivities.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, April 13, 2023. You'll hear about NPR's decision to quit Twitter, and how WGLT is doing it too. And you'll hear more about ISU women's basketball player Paige Robinson being drafted into the WNBA.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, April 12, 2023. You'll hear about McLean County government's reaction to an airport plan to expand its tax base. Plus, an interview with NAACP Youth Council leader Bradley Ross Jackson.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, April 11, 2023. You'll hear about what's next for State Farm's IT outsourcing plan. And an interview with Normal Mayor Chris Koos about last week's election turnout.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, April 10, 2023. You'll hear about a Bloomington church that needs to find a new home. Plus, a look at ag productivity trends in McLean County.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, April 7, 2023. You'll hear about Trail East and Trail West plans in Uptown Normal. Plus, how the expanded access to Narcan could impact McLean County.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, April 6, 2023. You'll hear about a walkout over gun safety at Normal Community High School. Plus, a closer look at the Unit 5 school board race.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, April 5, 2023. You'll hear the results of the local election. Plus, an interview with McLean County Board member Lea Cline about carbon capture regulation.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, April 4, 2023. On this Election Day, you'll hear about state lawmakers passing a new fertility fraud bill inspired by a Bloomington man's story. Plus, an interview with Bloomington City Manager Tim Gleason.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, April 3, 2023. You'll hear from three Bloomington-Normal high school students about their plans to vote for the first time this week. Also, an interview with Carlock's mayor about the potential closure of her community's elementary school.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, March 31, 2023. You'll hear about the severe weather expected today in central Illinois. Plus, a preview of a new play on stage at the Heartland Theatre Company in Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, March 30, 2023. You'll hear about the displacement of a homeless encampment in Bloomington. Plus, a new website will help people choose where to eat out in Bloomington-Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, March 29, 2023. You'll hear about the Democratic Party of Illinois' move into the Unit 5 school board race. Plus, a preview of Holi Moli, an event happening downtown on April 8.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, March 28, 2023. You'll hear about early voting trends in McLean County ahead of the April 4 election. Plus, a preview of ISU's Science and Technology Week keynote speaker.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, March 27, 2023. You'll hear about relocation plans for a large youth soccer program. Plus, counting down the final days of Bloomington's Skate N Place.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, March 24, 2023. You'll hear about a carbon dioxide pipeline that developers want to run through central Illinois. Plus, an interview with a Unit 5 parent who wants to vote on the referendum, but can't.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, March 23, 2023. You'll hear from WGLT's partners at last night's Local Candidates Open House. Plus, you'll learn about a new partnership between ISU and OSF HealthCare.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, March 22, 2023. You'll hear about allegations of meddling in a police investigation related to the Unit 5 referendum. Plus, a new episode of WGLT's series Sound Health looks at Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, March 21, 2023. You'll hear about a plan that's resurfaced to expand the Bloomington-Normal airport's tax base to more of McLean County. Plus, a look at what's at stake for Unit 5's sports families in the April 4 referendum.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, March 20, 2023. You'll hear about U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood's interest in reforming the FISA law. Plus, how the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank impacts the startups affiliated with OSF HealthCare.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, March 17, 2023. You'll hear about efforts to expand broadband access in rural McLean County. Plus, you'll meet a blues drummer who's found a new path as a historian.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, March 16, 2023. You'll hear about a Bloomington-based health care company that's laying off staff and selling some of its facilities. Plus, Lauren Warnecke visits the WELL Summit in Uptown Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, March 15, 2023. You'll hear about Gov. JB Pritzker's visit to Heartland Community College in Normal. Plus, a report on former Reditus CEO Aaron Rossi's $3 million donation pledge to ISU Athletics.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, March 14, 2023. You'll hear about how PATH in Bloomington is growing to meet the needs of the expanded 988 suicide and crisis hotline. Plus, you'll learn how the Illinois Arts Council Agency is looking at grant-making through an equity lens.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, March 13, 2023. You'll hear about District 87 needing a little legislative help to expand its early childhood education programs. Plus, a preview of the last "American Passion Play" in Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, March 10, 2023. You'll hear about changes to the state's "cottage food operator" law could open up new doors for home chefs. Plus, a closer look at living conditions inside Phoenix Towers in Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, March 9, 2023. You'll hear from Normal Mayor Chris Koos about the town's new budget and prospects for a second (or third) cannabis dispensary. Plus, an interview with an award-winning Normal Community High School teacher.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, March 8, 2023. You'll hear about lawmakers who want to change how insurance is regulated in Illinois. Plus, a Peoria nonprofit finds a new client in electric automaker Rivian.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, March 7, 2023. You'll hear about the latest on the investigation at Eastview Christian Church. Plus, a look at the Bloomington City Council race for Ward 4.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, March 6, 2023. You'll hear about how inflation and the hot housing market are impacting Habitat for Humanity of McLean County. Plus, why diverse hiring is important to the renewable energy industry.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, March 1, 2023. You'll hear about Rivian's production targets for 2023, and what they mean for Normal's plant. Plus, a closer look at an e-learning proposal from a group of Unit 5 school board candidates.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, March 2, 2023. You'll hear about an expanding Route 66 event that's coming to Bloomington-Normal. Plus, a closer look at the fallout of the situation at Eastview Christian Church in Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, March 1, 2023. You'll hear about Rivian's production targets for 2023, and what they mean for Normal's plant. Plus, a closer look at an e-learning proposal from a group of Unit 5 school board candidates.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023. You'll hear the latest on the unfolding situation at Eastview Christian Church in Normal. Plus, an interview with James Gaston from Jazz UpFront about his family's legacy of formidable Black business ownership in Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Feb. 27, 2023. You'll hear about where the hot Bloomington-Normal housing market is headed next. Plus, an interview with the up-and-coming restaurant owner Aaron Francis.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Feb. 24, 2023. You'll hear about plans for Uptown South from City Manager Pam Reece. Plus, a look at this weekend's screenings at the Normal Theater, featuring nature run amok.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023. You'll hear about a closer look at pedestrian and bike safety happening at ISU. Plus, what Bloomington-Normal's newest residents are looking for in a new home.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023. You'll hear about the governor's stop in central Illinois to tout his early childhood education plans. Plus, a look at the new influencers hoping to shape debate over the Unit 5 tax referendum the second time again.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023. You'll hear from U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen about ag policy in the new Congress. Plus, an interview with the new chair of the Yes for Unit 5 pro-referendum campaign.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Feb. 20, 2023. You'll hear about a new appointment for Normal Town Council member Chemberly Harris. Plus, meet the leaders of ISU's new cannabis club.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Feb. 17, 2023. You'll hear the latest on the change in leadership at Illinois State University. Plus, a preview of "Men on Boats," a play opening Friday at ISU's School of Theatre and Dance.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Feb. 16, 2023. You'll hear about ISU President Terri Goss Kinzy's abrupt resignation. Plus, a recap of the governor's State of the State and budget address from Springfield.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023. You'll hear about the changing climate in Illinois. Plus, an interview with an Illinois Wesleyan University alum who is now the lieutenant governor of Wisconsin.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023. You'll hear about the proliferation of online romance scams from the FBI's field office in Springfield. Plus, a new episode of Sound Health looks at childhood obesity.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Feb. 13, 2023. You'll hear about a review of cannabis policies in the Town of Normal. Plus, a look at speeding ticket trends in Bloomington and Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Feb. 10, 2023. You'll hear about hiring trends in the insurance industry. Plus, what we can learn about who's moving to Bloomington-Normal from the STAR Adult Literacy program.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Feb. 9, 2023. You'll hear about changes at the Sugar Grove Nature Center in Funks Grove. Plus, a look at the marketing campaign to attract workers to Bloomington-Normal
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023. You'll hear about what's next for hiring in ISU's new College of Engineering, now the dean is in place. Plus, an interview with Illinois agriculture director Jerry Costello.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023. You'll hear about District 87 expanding its social-emotional learning curriculum to younger students. Plus, an interview with Larry Carius from the Bloomington-Normal Restaurant Scene.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Feb. 6, 2023. You'll hear about U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood's thoughts on the mishandling of confidential documents. Plus, an interview with the lead developer of a new subdivision in west Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Feb. 3, 2023. You'll hear about Bloomington Police's response to rising gun violence in the city. Plus, Lauren Warnecke visits the Bloomington High School dance team as it heads to nationals in Orlando.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023. You'll hear from Sen. Tammy Duckworth about federal police reform. Plus, an exit interview with retiring Bloomington-Normal union leader John Penn.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023. You'll hear about Rivian's plans for 2023. Plus, a closer look at the flag between two Republicans trying to quash the state's new assault weapons ban.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023. You'll hear about today's special Unit 5 school board meeting, when budget cuts will be discussed. Plus, a new installment of Sound Health focuses on your hearing.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Jan. 30, 2023. You'll hear about how Bloomington wants to significantly boost the city's spending on roadwork next year. Plus, a look at back at the 1978 Normal firefighters strike. And it's the debut of our new Guest Co-Host feature, with students from Bent Elementary and Prairieland Elementary schools.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Jan. 27, 2023. You'll hear about the housing shortage in Bloomington-Normal, and where progress is being made. Plus, what Illinoisans need to know about the flap over gas stoves.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023. You'll hear about a judge's ruling in an election case involving the Town of Normal. Plus, a new Bloomington resident wants to learn how to drive in the snow and ice.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023. You'll hear about the Town of Normal's budget forecast for next year -- and where increased spending will go. Plus, an ISU researcher looking into workplace safety.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023. You'll hear a checkup on the Bloomington-Normal homebuilding market. Plus, an interview with ISU's business college dean about how deep the recession will go.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Jan. 23, 2023. You'll hear about a new approach to wind and solar farm installations in Illinois. Plus, a preview of a new show at Heartland Theatre.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Jan. 20, 2023. You'll hear about an unsolved Bloomington homicide, for which police are trying to generate new leads. Plus, you'll learn about a Bloomington-Normal nonprofit that focuses on healthy body image and recovery from disordered eating.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Jan. 19, 2023. You'll hear about the attack on the Planned Parenthood clinic in Peoria. Plus, an interview with U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2023. You'll hear about how the unexpected discovery of a lost ring-tailed lemur in Bloomington is shining a light on the illegal trafficking of exotic animals. Plus, an interview with State Sen. Sally Turner, a Republican who represents parts of McLean County.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023. You'll hear about the Normal mayor conditionally endorsing a fare-free plan for Connect Transit buses. Plus, an interview with Republican U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood, who represents parts of Bloomington-Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Jan. 13, 2023. You'll hear about how Illinois sheriffs are reacting to the new ban on assault-style weapons. Plus, unpacking the context behind State Farm's IT outsourcing moves.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023. You'll hear about the Unit 5 referendum returning to the ballot April 4. Plus, an interview with musician Edward David Anderson about his new concert series at Destihl Brewery in Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023. You'll hear about the upcoming launch of microtransit in Bloomington-Normal. Plus, how cell phone location data is leading to new insight into who's working where in Bloomington-Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023. You'll hear from newly appointed state senator Tom Bennett. Plus, a recap of inauguration day in Springfield.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Jan. 9, 2023. You'll hear about the expansion of a giant warehouse space in north Normal. Plus, an interview with the new president of the revived McLean County India Association.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Jan. 6, 2023. You'll hear about a legal memo about Normal Town Council member Stan Nord's recent email to city staff. Plus, Lauren Warnecke previews a new production at the Community Players Theatre.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023. You'll hear about millions in federal earmarks coming back to McLean County communities. Plus, executives at OSF HealthCare talk about a new remote monitoring program for RSV patients.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023. You'll hear about an electoral board weighing in on the race for Unit 5's school board. Plus, an interview with Normal City Manager Pam Reece about the town's plans for 2023.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023. You'll hear about efforts to bring a grocery store to the Uptown Normal area. Plus, an interview with the administrator of the government-owned McLean County Nursing Home.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Dec. 23, 2022. You'll hear about how the "tripledemic" is impacting Bloomington-Normal's hospitals. And you'll learn about a 104-year-old fruitcake that just found a new home in Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022. You'll hear about Bloomington-Normal road crews getting ready for the winter storm. Plus, a look at the human element of online shopping.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022. You'll hear an exit interview with U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis, whose final term ends in January. Plus, a new group looks to mobilize candidacies for school boards in Tazewell County.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022. You'll hear the latest on a winter storm watch impacting much of central Illinois heading into the holiday weekend. Plus, tips for entertaining your out-of-town visitors during the holidays — especially if you're new to town yourself.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Dec. 19, 2022. You'll hear about the chances for a white Christmas in Bloomington-Normal. Plus, a look at workplace culture and safety inside the Rivian plant — and how that could impact prospects for unionizing.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Dec. 16, 2022. You'll hear from Bloomington's city manager about cuts to Connect Transit service. Plus, a visit to the almost-finished natural playground opening at Colene Hoose Elementary School in Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Dec. 15, 2022. You'll hear from the new chair of the McLean County Republican Party. Plus, Congress is poised to vote on a new piece of conservation legislation that experts say would, if passed, mark the largest dedicated investment in wildlife conservation — ever.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022. You'll hear about changes to charitable giving at State Farm and what it means for local nonprofits. Plus, an interview with new-ish Bloomington state Rep. Dan Caulkins.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022. You'll hear about traffic trends at the Central Illinois Regional Airport. Plus, an interview with McLean County's newly elected sheriff, Matt Lane.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Dec. 12, 2022. You'll hear about state Rep. Keith Sommer's resignation and why it was timed as it was. Plus, you'll meet Bloomington wildlife rescue volunteer Chase Cavalera, aka the Local Tarzan.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Dec. 9, 2022. You'll hear more about what brought the IHSA state football finals back to Normal. Plus, Verneice Prince talks about her nonprofit, Cruisin' Outta Poverty Services, based in west Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022. You'll hear about a new housing development proposed for north Normal. Plus, interviews with a Pontiac prison officer and a union official about security concerns about the facility.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for December 7, 2022. You'll hear about Republican candidates expressing interest in replacing Jason Barickman in the Illinois Senate, and now Eureka College built men's and women's wrestling programs from scratch.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, December 6, 2022. You'll hear from two McLean County Board officials on the board's new power-sharing agreement. Plus, state Sen. Jason Barickkman's explains his decision to retire from politics, weeks after winning a new term.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Dec. 5, 2022. You'll hear the latest in the civil and criminal cases involving Reditus Labs, the COVID-19 testing giant. Plus, an interview with a founder of the Bloomington Revivalists group.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Dec. 2, 2022. You'll hear about efforts to bring the IHSA state football title games back to ISU's Hancock Stadium. Plus, you'll learn about two health agencies in McLean County that are working on ways to address gaps in mental health care.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022. You'll hear about Dan Brady joining the transition team of the Democrat who defeated him in the race for Secretary of State. Plus, McLean County prosecutors and defense attorneys talk about implementation of the SAFE-T Act's end of cash bail.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022. You'll hear about Bloomington's city manager saying the heating and cooling units at Grossinger Motors Arena should have lasted four to nine years longer than they have. Plus, a deeper look at how bond court will change in McLean County come Jan. 1.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022. You'll hear about the latest homebuying trends in Bloomington-Normal. Plus, cutting through the noise on the SAFE-T Act as the Jan. 1 implementation date approaches.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Nov. 28, 2022. You'll hear what Bloomington's mayor thinks Unit 5 should do next, following the rejection of the referendum. Plus, a look at what issues Bloomington-Normal's newest residents are interested in ... and how they can get involved.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022. You'll hear about ISU alum and former UN Ambassador Donald McHenry's visit to Normal. Plus, the students at Washington Elementary School in Bloomington share what they're thankful for this Thanksgiving.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2022. You'll hear tips from an ISU professor about cost-effective ways to incorporate healthy food into your Thanksgiving meal. Plus, an interview with state Sen. Jason Barickman about Republicans' performance in the midterm election.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Nov. 21, 2022. You'll hear about Rivian trying to force arbitration with a former employee who's sued over allegations of sexual harassment. Plus, a former radio and TV program at Lincoln College finds a new life.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Nov. 18, 2022. You'll hear an update on ISU's response to recent anti-LGBTQ incidents on campus. Plus, a new installment of Datebook previews a Sondheim show now on stage at Illinois Wesleyan University.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022. You'll hear about the final design concept for Uptown South. Plus, an interview with an ISU professor about how to integrate pets into your disaster planning.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2022. You'll hear from McLean County's top prosecutor and Republican lawmakers who want to go harder after those who sell fentanyl. Plus, correspondent Edith Brady-Lunny talks about her reporting on a lawsuit targeting the state's child welfare agency.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022. You'll hear about the latest vote tallies on the Workers Rights Amendment. Plus, a new episode of Sound Health takes a look at RSV in McLean County.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Nov. 14, 2022. You'll hear about a planned study for expanded household hazardous waste collection in McLean County. Plus, the Baby's Fold's largest annual fundraiser, the Festival of Trees returns this week.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, November. 11, 2022. You'll hear about Rivian's efforts to ramp up production. Plus Illinois state Sen. Dave Koehler reflects on his reelection victory in a newly shaped district that includes Bloomington-Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022. You'll hear about the fallout from the Unit 5 tax referendum being rejected by voters. Plus, an interview with Congressman Darin LaHood about the election.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2022. You'll hear a recap of election night results. Plus, an interview with Normal Mayor Chris Koos.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022, aka Election Day. You'll hear about the real story behind high absenteeism numbers in District 87. Plus, a preview of "The Revolutionists" now on stage at Heartland Theatre Company.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Nov. 7, 2022. You'll hear about Republican candidate for governor Darren Bailey's stop in Bloomington over the weekend, as the election nears. And students at Normal Community High School talk about their views on the Unit 5 referendum, also on the ballot this week.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Nov. 4, 2022. You'll hear about Sen. Dick Durbin's comments on the war in Ukraine, during a stop in Bloomington-Normal. Plus, a look at partisan "zombie" newspapers like the McLean County Times.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Nov. 3, 2022. You'll hear about Democrats campaigning at ISU with less than a week to go before the election. Plus, WGLT courts reporter Edith Brady-Lunny talks about mental health in Illinois prisons.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022. You'll hear an update on early voting in McLean County. Plus, the new Hispanic outreach coordinator at Western Avenue Community Center talks to WGLT correspondent Michele Steinbacher.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022. You'll hear about Reditus Labs going out of business. Plus, a Mexican journalist who now lives in Bloomington is helping Spanish-speakers here learn about community events.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Oct. 31, 2022. You'll hear a warning to families with young children to stay extra vigilant this virus season. Plus, an interview with state Sen. Jason Barickman of Bloomington about revisiting cannabis tax policy.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Oct. 28, 2022. You'll hear about a sales tax proposal facing voters in Lexington, just north of Bloomington-Normal. Plus, marking 100 years of the Community Players Theatre in Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022. You'll hear about how local governments are using technology to serve their citizens. Plus, a preview of the race for Illinois secretary of state.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022. You'll hear about Gov. JB Pritzker campaigning for Democratic congressional candidate Eric Sorensen. Plus, a look at the race for Illinois attorney general.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2022. You'll hear about the challenges of running an environmentally sustainable restaurant during a time on high inflation. Plus a central Illinois political historian draws parallels between today's nuclear threat from Russia and the Cuban missile crisis 60 years ago this week.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Oct. 24, 2022. You'll hear about campus reaction to recent anti-LGTBQ incidents near Illinois State University. Plus, an Iranian artist living in central Illinois weighs in on the women's protests in her home country.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Oct. 21, 2022. You'll hear about OSF HealthCare's plans for a new behavioral health hospital. Plus, a look at the race for McLean County Board playing out in south Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Oct. 20, 2022. You'll hear about the Town of Normal's decision to buy two Rivian electric vehicles. Plus, a preview of a new exhibition at Illinois Wesleyan focusing on the international ties in the soccer community.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022. You'll hear from Bloomington's new arts and entertainment director ... and what challenges await him. Plus, voters sound off on what they want to hear from political candidates this fall.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2022. You'll hear about McLean County Clerk Kathy Michael hosting a public education session over the weekend. Plus, an interview with ISU's athletics director about the renamed CEFCU Arena.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Oct. 17, 2022. You'll hear about the Illinois State University's Board of Trustees considering a renaming plan for Redbird Arena. Plus, a look at a dispute over Extension funding playing out in McLean County.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Oct. 14, 2022. You'll hear about the latest groups weighing in on the Unit 5 tax referendum. Plus, a look at the race for the Senate seat currently held by Democrat Tammy Duckworth.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022. You'll hear about the McLean County lawsuit against the criminal justice reform law known as the SAFE-T Act. Plus, why Illinois' manufacturing industry has an image problem.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022. You'll hear about Illinois State University homecoming week. Plus, an interview with a central Illinois farmer on his last harvest run after 55 years.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022. You'll hear about a recall involving most of the EVs that Rivian has produced thus far in Normal. Plus, a new episode of Sound Health focused on reducing risk of diabetes.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Oct. 10, 2022. You'll hear some context on this dry weather we've been having. Plus, an interview with the Illinois State Museum's first director of tribal relations, to mark Indigenous People's Day.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Oct. 7, 2022. You'll hear a recap of the debate at ISU between Gov. JB Pritzker and his challenger, Darren Bailey. You'll also hear Charlie Schlenker's report on the counterintuitive number of property-assessment appeals in Normal Township.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022 You'll hear about the race for McLean County clerk, a position which oversees elections in much of the area. Plus, an interview with Normal Mayor Chris Koos about economic indicators.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2022. You'll hear about some anti-LGTBQ vandalism that's surfaced near the ISU campus. Plus, a look at Gov. JB Pritzker's record, and that of his Republican opponent, Darren Bailey.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022. You'll hear a recap of last night's 17th Congressional District debate in Peoria, co-sponsored by WGLT. And a Ukrainian woman shares her story anew amid a turning point in the war.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Oct. 3, 2022. You'll hear about a Bloomington teenager, Avani Rai, who is making her voice heard on a national stage. And Ariele Jones previews a new theatrical production at Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Sept. 30, 2022. You'll hear about another groundbreaking at Heartland Community College in Normal. Plus, Gov. JB Pritzker swings through downtown Bloomington for an early voting pep rally.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022. You'll hear about how Bloomington plans to spend pandemic relief money. And an interview with Chestnut Health Systems' CEO about a new dental clinic planned for west Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022. You'll hear a recap of last night's 91st House District debate in Normal. And a new installment of Sound Health looks at a new peer support recovery certification program.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2022. You'll hear about the new group that's formed to campaign for the Unit 5 referendum. Plus, a preview of a show now open at the University Galleries in Uptown Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Sept. 26, 2022. You'll hear a checkup on the Bloomington-Normal commercial real estate market. Plus, meet a Heyworth man who turned his pandemic hobby into a trendy fashion must-have.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Sept. 23, 2022. You'll hear about a costlier-than-expected water main project in Normal. And Lauren Warnecke reports on a panel discussion about the pressures facing women families coming out of the pandemic.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Sept. 22, 2022. You'll hear about a rare endorsement in a statewide race. And an appellate judge from Bloomington-Normal weighs in on the state of the justice system.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2022. You'll hear about ISU President Terri Goss Kinzy's State of the University address. Plus, the Scouts honor two members of the legal community for their service work.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022. You'll hear about Bloomington and Normal's response to calls to help bussed migrants coming from the southern U.S. border, a fundraiser to help two ISU students who were critically injured in a crash and a Unit Five teacher claims she's being held hostage by the district after it rejected her resignation.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Sept. 19, 2022. You'll hear about plans for a new restaurant in a high-profile space in Uptown Normal. Plus, the third and final story in WGLT's series about Bloomington-Normal's housing shortage.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Sept. 16, 2022. You'll hear about McLean County's newly chosen state's attorney. And an interview with Bloomington Mayor Mboka Mwilambwe.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022. You'll hear about McLean County's triage center possibly coming under new management. And Bloomington-Normal artists weigh in on a debate about AI-created artwork.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2022. You'll hear from a Bloomington City Council member about the Welcoming Week festivities in her city. And an interview with the head of the USDA's Future Scientists program.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022. You'll hear about the candidates to become McLean County's next state's attorney. And an interview with an ISU grad student who spent his summer working with Ukrainian refugees.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Sept. 12, 2022. You'll learn about why Bloomington's water has tasted a little funny recently. Plus, an interview with the Anti-Defamation League about Illinoisans in the far-right group the Oath Keepers.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Sept. 9, 2022. You'll hear about Normal Mayor Chris Koos appearing on Capitol Hill as part of his bid to join Amtrak's board. Also, an interview with Normal Town Council member Kevin McCarthy about the Wintergreen subdivision's growth.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Sept. 8, 2022. You'll hear about U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood's remarks at a McLean County Chamber of Commerce event. Plus, a new installment of Beyond Sports introduces you to an extraordinary swimmer from Illinois Wesleyan University.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2022. You'll hear about the latest on the Unit 5 referendum on November's ballot. Plus, Charlie Schlenker reports on changing library use trends in Bloomington-Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2022. You'll hear about a call for volunteers for McLean County's ground search and rescue team. Plus, previewing a new production at the Community Players Theatre in Bloomington-Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Sept. 2, 2022. You'll hear about the Illinois Symphony Orchestra's move to ISU, from arts correspondent Lauren Warnecke. And Charlie Schlenker looks back on Mikhail Gorbachev's visit to central Illinois.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022. You'll hear about an archeological dig in Woodford County (just northwest of Bloomington-Normal) that may change history's understanding of the Native American culture which thrived here a millennium ago. Plus, an interview with state Sen. Jason Barickman from Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, August 31. A group of health experts has identified three health priorities in McLean County - access to care, behavioral health and healthy eating and active living. Plus, State Senator Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) weighs-in on the race for Illinois governor.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, August 30. You'll hear the latest developments in the effort of some people to change how Normal elects its town council members. Plus, ISU's winningest coach reflects on 54 years in college athletics.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Aug. 29, 2022. You'll hear about McLean County's new community health needs assessment. Plus, an assessing the hot housing market with McLean County's new supervisor of assessments.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, Aug. 26, 2022. You'll hear about where Tammy Duckworth and Republican challenger Kathy Salvi stand on student loan debt forgiveness. Plus, a preview of the gospel music "Crowns" on stage in Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022. You'll hear about Gov. JB Pritzker and Republican challenger Darren Bailey's campaign stop in Lexington. And an interview with Illinois' legislative watchdog (also an ISU alum).
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2022. You'll hear about U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack's trip to LeRoy alongside U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth. And you'll hear about a settlement in lost wages related to contractors at the Rivian plant.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022. You'll hear about the sale of ISU's former Shelbourne Apartment complex in Normal. And step inside an art exhibition that all ties back to local artist Harold Gregor.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Aug. 22, 2022. You'll hear about the power of the farm community in central Illinois. And an interview with Normal's city manager about the Wintergreen subdivision's growth.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Aug. 19, 2022. You'll hear about more construction at Heartland Community College in Normal. Plus, an interview with Normal's Citizen of the Year.
Hi, this is Ryan Denham, content director at WGLT. Wanted to give you a heads up that there won’t be a new episode of THE LEADOFF today. That’s because the entire WGLT news team is spending the day at a professional-development training. That will lead to better journalism for you, our listeners. But don’t worry: Our colleagues at NPR will keep you company today, and THE LEADOFF and all the local news you rely on will be back on the air on Friday.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, August 17. Connect Transit's general manager is calling a $13 million federal grant a game-changer for the mass transit system. Plus, a new agency is aiming to streamline funding for pre-K services in Illinois.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, August 16. Ryan Denham recaps highlights from Illinois State University's board of trustees meeting and Tim Shelly interviews IL-17th Democratic Candidate Eric Sorensen.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, August 15. A Central Illinois group is educating people on how to help preserve the monarch butterfly population. Plus, a recent graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University plans to spend her time as a Fulbright scholar in Vienna the music of composers who were silenced by the Nazis.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, August 12. The new head of Bloomington's District 87 schools says he's excited for the school year. Plus, in the wake of more race discrimination lawsuits filed against State Farm, a discrimination law expert says retaliation is common in discrimination cases -- and there's a high legal bar to prove someone liable.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, August 11. McLean County is receiving national attention for its mental health initiatives. Plus, a look at how McLean County courts hope to reduce recidivism among young adults.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, August 10. A Bloomington High School senior has been appointed to the city's citizen-led police review board. Plus, a look back at the life of longtime Normal town council member and public servant Garrett Scott.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, August 9. Bloomington was host to a recent summit aimed at getting more girls interested in the STEM field. Plus, an agricultural behemoth has launched a pilot program that pays farmers to use "carbon smart" practices — and that includes farmers in McLean County.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, August 8. There's a new scam targeting central Illinois businesses. Plus, there have been trace amounts of the so-called "forever chemicals" in the water supply of three McLean County communities.
WGLTs The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, August 5. The state's gas tax holiday might not do much for your wallet, according a Northern Illinois University economics professor. Plus, a preview of the new $24 million YMCA facility set to open later this month.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022. You'll hear about another change in leadership at the Bloomington Election Commission. Plus, an update on efforts to bring a grocery store to west Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022. You'll hear about a lawsuit filed against a central Illinois strip club over alleged wage issues. And an interview with Normal Mayor Chris Koos about economic development.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022. You'll hear why an economic development leader thinks Bloomington-Normal needs a new light industrial park. Plus, a clinical psychologist helps parents navigate difficult conversations about violence with their children.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, August 1. The state's newly hired electric vehicle coordinator, who says equity and access are among her top priorities in the new job. Plus, there's a relatively new disease threat that this time could impact our food supply.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, July 29. Farmland in McLean County has never been cheap — and that's even more true during a period of inflation. Plus, the end is near for the Illinois Shakespeare Festival, but there are plenty of chances left to catch “King Lear” and “Much Ado About Nothing” at Ewing Manor.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, July 28, 2022. State Sen. Jason Barickman of Bloomington weighs in on inflation. Plus, you've heard of food deserts — but what about legal deserts, where attorneys are scarce?
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, July 27, 2022. Rising costs are affecting everyone -- even the care of pets, in some cases. Plus, parking policy in downtown Bloomington will come to the fore next month along with discussion of the shape of the downtown. City Manager Tim Gleason says it's time for the council to take up a streetscape plan.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, July 26. WGLT correspondent Colleen Reynolds interviews 18-year-old Gavin Devore about his decision to get a real estate license right after high school. Plus, Democratic US Senator Tammy Duckworth says she wants to see a revival of the assault weapons ban that expired in 1994.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, July 25. U-S Senator Tammy Duckworth speaks to Tim Shelley about gun control and inflation. Plus, McLean County has returned to a high rate of COVID spread in the community, and there have been 4 more COVID-related deaths.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, July 22. The McLean County circuit court and other courts in the state are scrambling to meet the end-of-the-year deadline to implement the requirements of the SAFE-T Act signed into law earlier this year. Plus, a look into increased traffic deaths and DUI citations after a lull during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, July 21. A recent stop in Florida by Illinois' governor has renewed speculation that the first-time Democratic governor might have his eye on the presidency. Plus, a study by State Farm shows millennials are willing to spend big on certain things, but they also want a good deal, too.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, July 20. A staycation in Illinois this summer might sound boring, but but Karla Flannery, the deputy director of the Illinois Office of Tourism, said she couldn't disagree more. Plus, a deeper look into the policy of one of the region's largest healthcare providers that bars LGBTQ+ employees from having fertility treatments covered by insurance.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, July 19. As Illinois hands out nearly 200 new, recreational cannabis licenses, the state has the chance to uphold its promise to diversify the industry. Plus, an Illinois State baseball player who dreamed of making the Major Leagues is now much closer to making that his reality.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, July 18. Eclecticism and imagination have come together “In Living Color” at University Galleries. Plus, inflation is hurting social service agencies.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, July 15. Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington is saying goodbye to its longtime superintendent today. Plus, police say there's no guaranteed way to prevent your car from getting its converter stolen, but you can take some precautions.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, July 14. WGLT correspondent Tim Alexander recently attended a Field Day at the ISU Farm near Lexington where agronomists, farmers, and researchers met to discuss that the Lake Bloomington and Evergreen Lake watershed. Plus, newly disclosed data show that auto insurers made excessive profits during the pandemic.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, July 13. Sabrina Cavanaugh discusses the founding of the Facebook group McLean County Pro-Choice Warriors. Plus, a NASA Solar System Ambassador's analysis of stunning new images from space.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, July 12.The president of the Friends of Constitution Trail group is cheering plans from the Illinois Department of Transportation that will add new accommodations along Illinois Route 9 in Bloomington. Plus, the owner of a copi processing plant in east Peoria makes a case for the copi fish. That's the new name for the fish formerly known as Asian carp.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, July 11. Bloomington could soon offer amnesty to parking violators who have long overdue fines. Plus, Normal Township trustees appointed the now-former ARC operations director as the new Normal Township supervisor. And Illinois State University men's basketball coach Ryan Pedon has big goals for the program.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, July 8. A surge in out-of-state visitors might strain access to abortion in central Illinois. Plus, the reversal of the precedent Roe vs. Wade set regarding privacy could have an impact on LTGBTQ+ plus rights.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, July 7, 2022. You'll hear Mayor Chris Koos' thoughts on possibly buying license plate reading cameras for his police department. And an interview with State Sen. Dave Koehler, a Peoria Democrat whose running for re-election in a district that now includes parts of Bloomington-Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, July 6. Charges have been filed against the perpetrator of the July 4 mass shooting in Highland Park. Plus, the Bloomington-Normal Sports Commission has honored some of the top student-athletes in McLean County.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, July 5. Should the Town of Normal be divided into districts for better council representation? A petition is asking residents to give voters the final say. Plus, a new exhibition at the McLean County Arts Center looks back on the life and work of a prominent local artist.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, July 1. Charlie Schlenker talks to Bloomington city manager Tim Gleason about the new cannabis dispensary coming to the city's west side. Plus, local environmental policy leaders talk about the recent Supreme Court ruling that limits the EPA's regulatory powers.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, June 30. A political scientist and former mayor of Bloomington says big money will likely be poured into the 91st House District Race. Plus, WBEZ politics reporter Dave McKinney sat down with Mary Dixon for a breakdown of the governor's race and a preview for the general election.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, June 29, 2022. You'll hear the latest primary election results. And an interview with a true-crime expert from Illinois Wesleyan University.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, June 28. Once again there are mixed reactions to a recent Supreme Court ruling, this time to one accommodating a public school's coach decision to pray on the football field. And Donald Trump was just the second Republican presidential candidate in the last 50 years to lose McLean County, but the ex-president still has sway over some G-O-P candidates seeking office in McLean County.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, June 27. Erick Stock reports from a protest in Bloomington, hours after the Supreme Court reversed the right to access an abortion. Plus, the ACLU of Illinois' spokesperson Ed Yonka details what implications this has for the state.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, June 24. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources "rebranded" the invasive Asian carp. Will it lead to more people eating the fish? Plus, a recovery project coordinator with Illinois Recovery Corps put out a survey of to gauge McLean County's interest in creating a recovery community center for those struggling with poor mental health and/or substance abuse.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, June 23. Charlie Schlenker checks in with Bloomington Mayor Mboka Mwilambwe. Plus, the ACLU of Illinois was involved with the Town of Normal's plan to purchase and use license-plate reading cameras, but a spokesperson says that doesn't mean they endorsed it outright.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, June 22. Former Vice President Former Vice President Mike Pence was the keynote speaker at the Peoria and Tazewell County Republican Lincoln Day Dinner at the Peoria Civic Center Monday. Plus, a look at the response of lawmakers to consumer angst about rising electricity rates in Central Illinois.
WGLT'S the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, June 21. Most of the 51 firearms stolen last year were from a store, according to the Bloomington Police Department. But they say gun owners should still take steps to responsibly store firearms when not in use. Plus, the avian flu impacted birds at Miller Park Zoo, backyard poultry operations and more. Correspondent Tim Alexander talks to the state's top animal doc about the respiratory disease's impact on Illinois.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, June 16. Normal City Manager Pam Reece says the Town needs extra money from the federal government to offset the impact of inflation on the Uptown Underpass project. Ariele Jones talks to Heartland Theater Company managing director Gail Dobbins about its 10-minute play festival, running each weekend in June.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, June 14. Caterpillar is moving its headquarters to Texas, but the CEO of the Greater Peoria Area Economic Development Council says that won't have much of an impact on Central Illinois. Plus, the decurrent false aster might look like a run-of-the-mill daisy flower, but it's actually a flower that can only grow along the banks of the Illinois River. WCBU's Tim Shelly spoke with Emily Hodapp of the U-S Fish and Wildlife Service about the efforts to preserve and expand its delicate habitat in the Illinois River floodplain.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, June 14. Eric Stock reports from a press conference announcing a major expansion to the Ferrero chocolate factor in Bloomington. Plus, WBEZ's Patrick Smith looks in DCFS housing children in jail, sometimes for weeks or months at a time. The agency says that's because it can't find anywhere else to place them.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, June 13. Hear more about a new bill signed on Friday that expanded access to HIV medication. Plus, hear more about how a Bloomington-Normal foundation is helping minority students figure out where they'll fit best -- and what to expect -- when choosing a college or university.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, June 10. A half-century after Bloomington-Normal hosted its first corvette show, the super-car's signature event has returned to the Twin Cities to mark its 50th anniversary. Plus, the keynote speaker for an American Red Cross event locally may not be a household name, but it's someone who will share a story of overcoming adversity to reach the top - with two of his passions.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, June 9. In the wake of a shortage of such workers, the Illinois Manufacturing Association held a summit on ways public schools can promote technical education. Plus, Charlie Schlenker checks in with Normal Town Council member Kevin McCarthy.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, June 8. Sarah Nardi interviews two Republicans running for the 91st House District. Plus, a look at how MarcFirst plans to use pandemic relief money from the Town of Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, June 7. Congressman Darin LaHood shares his thoughts on gun control. Plus, a look at a 4,000-year old Mayan farming technique that's being used at a rural Woodford County farm.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, June 6. A recent project at Normal West Community High School gave a local boy with cerebral palsy a new set of wheels. Plus, on Pentecost and the first Sunday of Pride Month, Miss Penny Cost returned to the pulpit at Hope United Methodist Church in Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, June 3. Eric Stock reports Juneteenth is one of two celebrations planned in Lincoln that got a cool reception when organizers the city asked for money. Plus, details on a new community center near downtown Bloomington.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, June 2. WGLT correspondent Tim Alexander checks in with Peoria County Farm Bureau manager Patrick Kirchhofer. Plus, organizers of two Bloomington-Normal music events that had hoped to host American Idol finalist Leah Marlene this summer are changing their plans.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, June 1. Ecology Action Center assistant director Larissa Armstrong discusses the upcoming electricity rate increase for certain customers in Central Illinois. Plus, Sarah Nardi speaks to an Illinois State University student about the potential for the U.S. Supreme Court to issue an opinion that may jeopardize Roe v. Wade.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, May 31. WGLT arts correspondent Lauren Warnecke previews the Cogs and Corsets festival coming to downtown Bloomington on June 3 and 4. Plus, it's been seven days since a student displayed a Confederate flag at University High School -- one student says that action wasn't an outlier, either.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, May 27. Ahead of Memorial Day, the parents of Bloomington's Sgt. Anthony Maddox, who died nearly a decade ago in Afghanistan while in the Army, say they believe they've finally found a way to honor his legacy. Plus, U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) shares her thoughts on gun control laws during an appearance on The 21st Show Thursday.
WGLT's The Leadoff for Thursday, May 26 features an extended conversation on gun violence with Illinois State University professor Julie Webber. Webber is also the author of the book Beyond Columbine: School Violence and the Virtual. Plus, Normal Police Chief Steve Petrelli says a shots fired incident on Wednesday was an isolated event.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, May 25. After targeted backlash, State Farm quickly moved to drop its support for a nonprofit that provides LGBTQ+-themed books to teachers and libraries — but the Chicago-based GenderCool says it's actually helped them fundraise eve more. Plus, the U-S Census Bureau recently updated its population count for Illinois, reflecting more recent data than the 2020 official census count. The Illinois undercount of nearly two-percent means that instead of losing roughly 18,000 people over 10 years, the state actually gained about 250,000 residents.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, May 24. Eric Stock takes a look at Dan Brady's bid for the highly coveted Secretary of State position. Plus, Sarah Nardi talks to two Illinois State University professors and bona fide punk rockers about what losing American Idol means for Leah Marlene's career.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, May 23. The chair of Illinois Wesleyan's accounting department says there's plenty of reason for the whole community to appreciate a new and recently-unveiled Bloomberg Finance Lab at the university. Plus, Eric Stock previews the only Republican primary race on the County Board.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, May 20. Eric Stock reports on how two candidates running for a judgeship that includes McLean County view the end of cash bail, which is set to take effect in Illinois next year. Plus, one of the owners of The Garlic Press in Uptown talks about getting a shout-out from American Idol host Ryan Seacrest.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, May 19, 2022. The town of Normal is negotiating a development agreement with Cedar Falls-Iowa based Eagle View Partners. Mayor Chris Koos says a critical part of the development of Uptown Circle is the emphasis on house -- in particular, apartments for more affluent residents. Plus, a look at the implications of a cyberattack on Lincoln College and what it could mean for other institutions.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, May 18, 2022. You'll hear a recap of Leah Marlene Day in Uptown Normal. And a look at the Republican primary for the 105th House District seat, which includes parts of McLean County.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, May 17, 2022. At a time when democracy feels very much at risk, an Illinois political scientist says youth civic engagement is a bright spot. Former Chicago alderman and political science professor at the University of Illinois Chicago Dick Simpson says as the January 6th insurrection demonstrated, democracy isn't in great shape. But he says there's hope to restore it... if we're willing to put in the work. Plus, there's a new graduation requirement for Illinois State University students: at least one course focused on inclusion, diversity and equity in the U.S.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, May 16, 2022. Enrollment deposits for incoming first year students are so robust that Illinois State University is in danger of running out of space. Plus, a look at the primary race for a seat on the McLean County Board where three Democrats are vying for two spots on the November ballot.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, May 13, 2022. Luck — good or bad — will be the theme of the tonight's Next to Normal Story Slam, the first since the storytelling event went on hiatus two years ago. Plus, Unit 5 is gearing up for another phase of public input on its financial future.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, May 12, 2022. Pontiac residents and leaders are worried after the state corrections department moved 171 medium security inmates from the Pontiac Correctional Center to other prisons early this year — the fear is the rest of the prison build in the 1870s will shut down too. Plus, a study of people sent to the McLean County Juvenile Detention Center over a decade finds the more times they were booked into the juvie jail the more likely it was they would be booked into the adult jail later. But its complicated.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, May 11, 2022. In the wake of two shots-fired reports in two days, Sarah Nardi reports on a Bloomington Police Department annual report on gun violence. Plus, former Congressman Tim Johnson has died at the age of 75. Charlie Schlenker has more about the life of a quirky, sometimes caustic, and always energetic public servant.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, May 10, 2022. New analysis from the Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council shows not only that the housing shortage is significant, but it's also grown since the last study done five years ago. Plus, American Red Cross workers speaking in Peoria say the conditions under which they're working are contributing to a nationwide blood shortage.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, May 9, 2022. The Bloomington City Council meets tonight at 6. The council will vote on a potential replacement for former council member Jamie Mathy. Grant Walch is the proposed replacement. Illinois State University plans to open its new College of Engineering in the fall of 20-25. The university has agreed to spend 3 million dollars to redesign two buildings to house the college in the short term. Plus, ISU students will be paying more in tuition and room and board.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, May 6. Charlie Schlenkerreports on the local impact that overturning Roe v. Wade could have for Illinois. Plus, the athletics director at Illinois State says changes to name image and likeness rules for student athletes are overdue.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, May 5. A judge decided Wednesday to strike down a ruling from the McLean County Electoral Board and remove 5 Republican County Board Candidates from the June primary ballot. Plus, Colene Hoose Elementary School broke ground Wednesday morning on the new “world class” playground designed by Danish architect. The new playground will teach kids to care about the environment in the long-term.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, May 5. Last night, six Democrats vying for a shot at the open 17th Congressional District seat talked everything from infrastructure to climate change to abortion access. Plus, a rally in Bloomington yesterday for support of access to abortion followed the leak of a Supreme Court draft opinion that suggests Roe v. Wade could be overturned.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, May 3rd. College commencement speakers who are trying to find messages of optimism to share with students who've spent more than half their college time in the midst of a pandemic. Plus, the Connect Transit abandonment of a proposal to renovate the old Pantagraph Newspaper building into a transfer center raises the question what will happen to that building now.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, May 2. Ameren customers in Central and Southern Illinois should prepare for sticker shock on their electric bills come June. Plus, Bloomington-Normal hospitals are no longer overrun with coronavirus patients, but new cases have been rising for five weeks in a row.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, April 29, 2022. Eric Stock reports on a need of improvement despite McLean County ranking among the healthiest counties in the state. Plus, Ariel Jones talks to Chicago singer-songwriter Mara Love, who will be performing at the Midwest Madness Festival at Nightshop.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, April 28. Jon Norton takes a look back at conversations with Normal West graduate and American Idol top 10 contestant Leah Marlene. Plus, the latest on an effort to get court records unsealed in the Aaron Rossi case.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, April 27. Carle BroMenn Medical Center recognized organ donors yesterday, especially a donor whose brother is a beloved employee. Plus, Eric Stock speaks with the co-founder of a local lacrosse co-op, who's parlayed her talents on the field into a spot on a Division 1 roster.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to now for Tuesday, April 26. Former Congressman Ray LaHood talks civility and bipartisanship ahead of an appearance with the League of Women Voters tonight. Plus, the state's budget, recently signed by Gov. JB Pritzker, includes more money for Illinois college students.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, April 25. Ryan Denham speaks with a Bloomington-Normal who's trying to help those in Ukraine, two months after the Russian invasion began. Plus, after a recent appearance in town, National Education Association president Becky Pringle said many teachers need more support helping students who have struggled with two years of pandemic life.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, April 21. A Unit 5 teacher says cuts at Chiddix Junior High School will create inequities for some students. Plus, a look at an ISU grad's first ever music book by and/or for trans and non-binary people.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, April 21. The president of the AFSCME Local 1110 talks about the decision of its members to ratify a new contract with Illinois State University. Plus, a Town of Normal council member talks about the focus a new developer has for the Trail East and Trail West project in Uptown Normal.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, April 20, 2022. Connect Transit is eyeing a different site for its proposed $18 million bus transfer center in downtown Bloomington. Plus, on 4/20, Eric Stock asks just how much Illinois is benefitting financially from recreational marijuana sales after two years of legalization.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, April 19. Reditus Labs CEO Aaron Rossi has a public statement delivered on his behalf, the first since he was indicted on tax fraud charges and stripped of financial control of the company. Plus, a conversation with WBEZ's Shannon Heffernan, who's been looking into big prisons in small towns — like the Pontiac Correctional Center.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, April 18, 2022. A drag show and a pet fashion show will be among the Humane Society of Central Illinois' fundraising events. The Normal Town Council will decide tonight on whether to partner with a Cedar Falls, Iowa-based developer on a Trail East and Trail West project. Plus, Rivian has already hired over 5,000 people in Normal, quickly becoming McLean County’s second-largest employer. But now comes the hard part: keeping them.
WGLT's the leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, April 15. State Senator Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) tells Charlie Schlenker he doesn't feel the legislature got as much done as it could have during the spring session. Plus, representatives from the United Way of McLean County Housing Coalition tell Eric Stock there's still more work to do, despite having already distributed more than $5 million in COVID housing relief.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, April 14, 2022. On today's episode, you'll get a COVID update from the McLean County Health Department. And meet the new executive director of the Multicultural Leadership Institute.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday April 13. An ISU hall of fame basketball coach reflects on the legacy of Title IX. Plus, Charlie Schlenker speaks to the upcoming police chief of the Town of Normal, Steve Petrelli.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, April 12. A conservationist who'll be speaking at Illinois State University this week says we're living in unprecedented times, climate-wise. Plus, the CEO of Bloomington-based Heritage Enterprises says there's some positive changes heading toward the long-term care facility profession's way.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, April 11. IWU president Georgia Nugent says all colleges are experiencing challenges right now. Plus, an ISU professor weighs-in on the Ketanji Brown Jackson nomination to the Supreme Court.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, April 8. The Bloomington-Normal NAACP reacts to the history-making nomination of Ketanji Brown Jackson as the first Black woman to the U.S. Supreme Court. Plus, more filings against Reditus Labs CEO Aaron Rossi and an interview with the Illinois Soybean Association, which is headquartered in Bloomington.
WGLT’s The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday April 7. The YWCA McLean County is helping formerly incarcerated women readjust to the community. Plus, WBEZ’s Dave McKinney takes a look inside the hedge fund empire of Ken Griffin.
WGLT’s the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, April 6. Hear an interview with Lincoln College president David Gerlach. Plus, more developments in the case against Reditus Labs and it’s CEO Aaron Rossi.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, April 5. A Bloomington woman is using her experience immigrating from El Salvador to the U.S. to help other immigrants in the area. Plus, the McLean County Sheriff's office may start having its deputies wear body cameras.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, April 4. Eric Stock talks about how alopecia has become a household name after the Oscars. Plus, an international athlete rights expert and two-time world track cycling champion talks about what it means for sport to be a human right.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, April 1. Charlie Schlenker talks to a the deputy executive director of the Illinois Higher Education Board about the options Lincoln College students have in the wake of its pending closure. Sarah Nardi speaks with three students who describe how it's affected them. Plus, a look at a new contract for McLean County sheriff's deputies and good news on the Bloomington-Normal jobs data front.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, March 31. Hear from Ryan Denham about encouraging new data from the Census about the economic health of McLean County. Plus, a decade of starting-and-stopping is coming to an end for the Bloomington Public Library as they finally reach the construction phase.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, March 30. Charlie Schlenker speaks with the first Black Chief Medical Officer for Carle Health in Central Illinois, Dr. Napolean Knight. Plus, Bloomington city manager Tim Gleason says rising interest rates could affect how much the city pays for bonds.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, March 28. The Bloomington City Council will hold a hearing on its proposed $269 million budget tonight, plus vote on providing $14 million for a library expansion. Plus, the Bloomington-Normal NAACP is promoting a series of events aimed at increasing voter participation, as well as participation in other, local government matters.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, March 25. You'll hear about a new bill that makes discrimination against natural hairstyles illegal in the workplace. Plus, a Bloomington-Normal pediatrician tells parents what they can do if Daylight Saving Time becomes permanent in 2023.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, March 24, 2022. You'll hear about the latest in the legal troubles facing Reditus Labs and its CEO, Aaron Rossi. Plus, you'll hear an interview with Bloomington Mayor Mboka Mwilambwe.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, March 17. A former Redbird weighs-in ahead of the ISU Women's basketball team heading to the NCAA tournament in Iowa tomorrow. Plus, a look at a women's concert group performing on Saturday.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, March 16. Normal Fire investigators are puzzled over what caused an explosion early Tuesday morning. Plus, Charlie Schlenker talks to former Afghan soldiers who fought the Taliban.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, March 15. Ryan Denham checks in with a GROWMARK agronomist in Bloomington. Plus, the W-D Boyce Council of the Boy Scouts of America has a new Scout Executive. WCBU's Tim Shelly interviews Ben Blumenberg about plans to grow membership in the 14-county area that includes McLean.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, March 14. Two Democratic senators from Illinois say they're confident President Joe Biden's pick for Supreme Court will receive a bipartisan welcome. Plus, WBEZ statehouse reporter Alex Degman takes a look back at the tenure of Dr. Ngozi Ezike as the state's top public health official.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, March 11. Eric Stock speaks with McLean County Health Department administrator Jessica McKnight. Plus, Ryan Denham listened in to Rivian's earnings call on Thursday.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, March 10, 2022. You'll hear about Gov. JB Pritzker's visit to Bloomington. And Eric Stock talks to the McLean County Health Department on the two-year anniversary of the COVID emergency.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, March 9, 2022. Correspondent Edith Brady-Lunny tells Ryan Denham about new context that's important to consider in the case of 29-year-old Kimberlee Burton. Burton has been charged with the concealment of a death and her daughter, seven-month-old Zaraz Walker has not been found. Plus, the Mayor of Normal says the stressed financial situation in Unit 5 could have wide-ranging affects on the community. Chris Koos also says a recent lobbying trip to Washington, D.C., was productive.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, March 8. Charlie Schlenker reports from a press conference at Illinois State University where a new men's basketball coach was announced. Plus, Sarah Nardi revisits an ISU doctoral student who said her family initial planned to wait out the situation in Ukraine. With Russia's continued assault on the country and conditions deteriorating rapidly, Maryna Teplova says that's no longer the case.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, March 7. Erick Stock finds out that Illinois State University and Vladimir State University students are finding more in common with each other than they previously knew. Sarah Nardi explores the gray area that many juvenile cases fall into when it comes to prosecutors and judges filing charges in the criminal justice system. Plus, a look at the Town of Normal's council agenda and more details on political filing season, which kicks off at 8 a.m. this morning.
On today's episode, you'll hear about how the crisis in Ukraine is impacting a Bloomington-Normal Sister Cities program. Plus, a closer look at the financial impact of COVID-19 on the arts scene.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, March 3. Former Illinois House Speaker and Democratic party boss Michael Madigan was indicted on racketeering charges on Wednesday. And the state's junior Democratic Senatory said she's pleased by the stance President Joe Biden took against Russia during his first state of the union address. Plus, State Farm sues electric vehicle company Tesla and Rivian faces a slew of canceled orders after announcing price increases this week.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, March 2, 2022. Bloomington City Manager Tim Gleason says the city is changing the way it's managing Grossinger Motors Arena going forward. Plus, Republican State Senator Jason Barickman tells WGLT's Charlie Schlenker he has problems with the way the state went about transferring some medium security inmates out of the Pontiac Correctional Center.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, March 1. You'll hear from EMMY award-winning journalist Jemele Hill, who was the keynote speaker at ISU's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Cultural dinner on Friday. Plus, Normal's city manager tells Charlie Schlenker she's receptive to local realtor's association calling on local governments to incentivize homeownership.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Feb. 28. You'll hear from Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe about challenges facing production at the plant in Normal. Plus, ahead of her speaking engagement at 3:30 today, Boston College sociology professor Zine Magubane talks to WGLT student reporter Jordan Mead about the role of social class and race in American society. Plus, the Town of Normal may adopt the same license plate reading cameras that are set to be voted on by Bloomington's city council tonight.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, February 25. Sarah Nardi talks to Marina Teplova, a Ukranian doctoral student at Illinois State University, about the Russian attacks yesterday. Plus, Scott Wilson speaks with Eric Stock about how the unrest in Ukraine affects energy and crop markets worldwide.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, February 24. Illinois Wesleyan University president Georgia Nugent says she's taking a more cautious approach regarding when the school will lift mask mandates. Plus, Bloomington Police provide a small update into their search for a seven-month old baby who's been missing for weeks.
WGLT’s The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, February 23. Normal’s Chief of Police talks about the de-escalation tactics officers used when dealing with a standoff situation Monday evening. Plus, a preview of two speakers who will be at Normal Public Library to talk about bipartisan support to designate the first city in the U.S. that was founded by a Black man as a National Park site.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, February 22. Bloomington mayor Mboka Mwilambwe weighs-in on a proposed commission that would study gun violence in the city, plus a University High School student wants your pandemic-era memories for a 20-year time capsule that's going into storage on Wednesday. Also, electric vehicle automaker Rivian isn't exactly feeling a warm reception for its planned second manufacturing plant south of Atlanta and the state's new inspector general is a Peoria native who says he's interested in learning the scope of his authority to "root out corruption."
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, February 21. You'll hear what both the Normal and City of Bloomington councils are planning for their meetings tonight. Plus, WGLT's Ariele Jones speaks with Tahira Clayton, a co-leader of the Women in Jazz Organization who will be playing Billie Holliday in Bessie, Billie, & Nina - Pioneering Women in Jazz," which will be coming to the Bloomington Center for Performing Arts on Wednesday night.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, February 18. You'll hear from a trucker involved in the 100-vehicle pile up near El Paso yesterday afternoon, plus Charlie Schlenker talks to Bloomington City Council member Mollie Ward about a her proposal for a commission dedicated to studying gun violence.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, February 8. You'll hear from two candidates aiming for a spot on the McLean County board, plus the latest in COVID-19 news. The Image of Research Competition at Illinois State University is on Thursday -- WGLT student reporter Jordan Mead talks to Office of student research director Gina Hunter about what the competition celebrates.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, February 7. You'll hear how local school districts spent their weekends after a Sangamon County judge issued a temporary restraining order against masks in schools. Plus, a preview of a conversation between student reporter Jack Graue and ISU marketing expert Hulda Black on State Farm's pivot-to-tik-tok strategy for this year's Super Bowl ad.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, February 4. You'll hear about how many driving incidents Bloomington-Normal police responded to in the first day of the winter snow storm, plus a look at what emergency room managers said their patient load has been like.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, February 3. McLean County didn't meet the highest recorded snowfall in a day yesterday -- we'll tell you when that record was set and how much snow fell at the time. And just because most people had a snow Wednesday doesn't mean everyone does: A social service provider tells us they don't have the day off. Plus, WBEZ statehouse reporter Alex Degman breaks down Gov. JB Pritkzer's budget address.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, February 2. You'll hear directly from an Illinois Department of Transportation regional director. Plus, Bloomington-Normal school leaders weigh-in on how they decide to go with a snow day versus an e-learning day.
WGLT's the Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, February 1. WCBU's Tim Shelly talks with a National Weather Service meteorologist about what to know ahead of this week's snow storm and COVID cases continue to fall in McLean County. Plus, if you thought the pandemic would steer people away from the restaurant business, you might be surprised to learn that hasn't been the case locally. Charlie Schlenker speaks with Larry Carius about how twice the number of new restaurants opened as existing ones closed.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Jan. 31. An ISU professor weighs-in on why the Bloomington-Normal area was the only metro area in the state to see a new jobs loss in the past year and the Missouri Valley Conference Commissioner says the conference that ISU plays in might not done growing any time soon. Plus, ahead of a documentary screening on Tuesday, Charlie Schlenker speaks with Dane Myers, the Assistant Director of the Stevenson Center for Community and Economic Development at ISU about why the Peace Corps is still more relevant than ever, 60 years after its founding.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, January 28. You'll hear about a new and unwelcome technology advancement in firearms and learn about the only metro area in the state that lost jobs over the past year. Plus, student reporter Jordan Mead talks in-depth with Autism McLean president Jacquie Mace about a new guidebook aimed at helping families navigate local resources.
WGLT'S The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, January 27. You'll hear the latest about plans for a new Samsung battery plant in Normal and learn about another place COVID test shortages may have an impact. Plus, Jon Norton interviews Noah Renken-Kapatos of the pysch-rock trio, Great Value Jesus.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Jan. 26. You'll hear the latest on a homicide in Bloomington and new McLean County COVID data. Plus, Bloomington's Planning Commission chair talks about a new plan to reduce urban sprawl within the city.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know Tuesday, Jan. 24. You'll hear one professor's suggestions on how employers can tap into Illinois' so-called labor reserve. Plus, Normal City Manager Pam Reece talks about a new emphasis the town is placing on public art.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Monday, Jan. 24. You'll hear from Unit 5's superintendent Kristen Wiekle on why that district won't be implementing test-to-stay COVID protocols. Plus, a look at the demand for COVID testing with Reditus Laboratories CEO Dr. Aaron Rossi.
WGLT’s The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, January 19. You’ll hear about new vaccination-only movie showings at a local theater and how an ongoing teacher shortage may change Unit 5's school schedule. Plus, what to expect when the Illinois Symphony returns to the Bloomington Center for Performing Arts next week.
WGLT’s The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, January 19. You’ll hear good news on the COVID-19 front, as well as take a look at a new public safety department at Heartland Community College. Plus, at least two Normal Town Council members have raised concerns about information they were presented before a recent vote on a new fitness center.
WGLT’s The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, January 19. You’ll hear the latest COVID news plus take a look at how many employees State Farm is trying to hire. Plus, an Illinois State University professor talks about her newest book, and how student reflections on the pandemic in 2020 are still relevant today.
WGLT’s The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, January 18. You’ll hear about challenges facing rural hospitals and an ongoing investigation by Bloomington Police. Plus, holding large events amidst a surge in COVID cases is risky. Charlie Schlenker talks to people about how they're weighing those decisions.
WGLT’s The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Friday, January 14. You’ll hear about how candidates for county and state offices and judicial seats in Illinois can start collecting signatures for the June primary. Plus, COVID hospitalizations have doubled across the country in the last two weeks as the omicron variant leads to record surges in new COVID cases.
WGLT’s The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Thursday, January 13. You’ll hear about a Normal town council member who’s eyeing a seat in Springfield and the latest in COVID news for McLean County. Plus, a disposal company argues the area could use more competition — in the waste business.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2022. You'll hear from McLean County Sherriff Jon Sandage. Plus, an interview with William Murphy, a biomedical engineer and graduate of Illinois Wesleyan University.
WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know for Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022. You'll hear about an organization raising concerns about a proposal to add license plate cameras around Bloomington. Plus, an interview with Mayor Chris Koos.