Statewide: Recent Episodes
Sean Crawford
Reporting from in and around Illinois.Listen to Statewide across Illinois in:Bloomington/Normal – WGLT 89.1 (Fridays 11 a.m. - Noon)Carbondale – WSIU 91.9 (Fridays 2-3 p.m. and Sundays 6-7 a.m.)Mount Vernon - WVSI 88.9 (Fridays 2-3 p.m. and Sundays 6-7 a.m.)Olney - WUSI 90.3 (Fridays 2-3 p.m. and Sundays 6-7 a.m.)Quad Cities - WVIK 105.7 HD-2 (Fridays 11 a.m. - noon)Rockford/DeKalb – WNIJ 89.5 (Saturdays 6-7 a.m., Sundays 2-3 p.m.)Springfield/Decatur - WUIS 91.9 (Fridays 11 a.m. - Noon, 11 p.m. - Midnight, Saturdays 9-10 a.m.)Peoria – WCBU 89.9 (Fridays 11-12 p.m.)Pittsfield - WIPA 89.3 (Fridays 11 a.m. - Noon, 11 p.m. - Midnight, Saturdays 9-10 a.m.)Urbana/Champaign – WILL 580 (Fridays 11 a.m. - Noon, 7-8 p.m.)
We visit a couple of schools that have enacted such policies to see if they are working.
Amid a growing climate of abuse aimed at sports officials, the Illinois High School Association has found it more difficult to attract and keep them. Some schools have had problems getting enough referees for contests.
On this episode, we discuss how to take care of yourself while dealing with sociopolitical stress.
Several reports of a mysterious creature in Chicago led some to seek answers. So far, there are none.
Heather Simpson said the debate has pitted neighbors and relatives against one another.
The former Illinois House Speaker was once a powerful force in politics and government. Now, his legacy is at stake.
Research shows that college students are going hungry at a higher rate than the U.S. population as a whole.
Sexually inappropriate calls, texts and chats are infrequent, but not uncommon on the 988 line, as are other types of abuse, including pranks, insults and personal attacks on the crisis counselors.
Illinois became the first state to eliminate cash bail a year ago this week. On this episode, we look at how the change has worked so far.
Stateville has led the way in prison education, primarily due to its proximity to Chicago's colleges and universities. On this episode, we talk with some instructors about what the programs bring to inmates and society, along with concerns about their future.
“Horrific is my reaction,” U.S. District Judge Virginia Kendall, the newly seated chief judge of the Northern District of Illinois, said when told about the information still online.
Before Oprah, there was another talk show host in Chicago. Phil Donahue changed television. He recently died at the age of 88.
Car accidents are the leading cause of death for children in the U.S. Driving under the influence is a big reason
Chicago hosts another Democratic National Convention starting Monday, but it has yet to shake the chaotic images from 1968.
A co-author of Illinois Politics: A Citizens' Guide to Power, Politics and Government joins us.
The governor appeared on the Illinois Lawmakers program to discuss the new state budget and his vision for the state.
The post-WWII homes were produced to address a housing shortage. They continue to stand out.
A closer look at the American League, which had its first Black player soon after Jackie Robinson debuted with the Dodgers. But it took some teams many years to follow suit.
On this episode, we hear from an Illinois couple who saw the bills rise to a level they no longer plan to have additional children.
Anne King was just 20 when her younger sister Erin killed herself. Today, the 48-year-old Kankakee woman works as a crisis counselor. She is also certified to teach classes for youth, which are aimed at combatting suicide.
The Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation recently became the first federally recognized tribal nation in the state. The government illegally sold the land from under Chief Shab-eh-nay around 1850.
Delays and other problems with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form and what it means for students looking to pay for college.
Colleges and universities have recognized the need, but say more resources are needed to meet demand.
A man named Victor migrated to Chicago. He hopes to stay and build a better life for his family.
After 26 years in prison, we learn how one man is using his firsthand experience to educate others.
A Chicago Tribune investigation found numerous cases where staff facing abuse allegations were allowed to continue working with patients.
Four additives, found in thousands of food items, are targeted in a measure under consideration.
Under a law signed over a year ago, Illinois prohibited counties from moratoriums on wind and solar projects. That's angered some who call it "state government overreach."
Young people will inherit the world's problems, including ways to create sustainable energy for communities. Some of them are getting a head start.
The Biden administration unveiled a controversial proposal that would create a staffing requirement, which has faced significant pushback from the nursing home industry.
Not long ago, the print versions of newspapers were the dominant source for local news. Now, many turn to online sources and social media. The change has forced newspapers to adapt.
Loneliness and social isolation is a health concern, contributing to many problems from anxiety and depression to diabetes and heart conditions.
For many of the migrants now in Chicago, fleeing their homes and often making harrowing journeys to the U.S., has been traumatic. A shortage of mental health care providers has led others to get involved.
In late 2021, a coalition of some of the country’s top pediatricians declared the youth mental health crisis a national emergency — and it isn't going away any time soon.
While some improvements have allowed for faster travel, a state panel is now working on a plan to guide high speed rail in coming years. But those changes will take time — and money.
Learn about Elizabeth Packard, who was wrongly placed in an Illinois asylum in the 19th century, but later advocated for those in her position and the mentally ill.
Advocates point to cases, like one in Waukegan, where a teen gave a false confession to a shooting.
Chicago's new mayor fired Dr. Alison Arwady, who had served as Chicago's Public Health Commissioner, during the pandemic.
On this episode, we learn about a new law that will require taching of Native American history in K-12 schools, starting in the 2024-25 academic year. We examine what it means for Native American students. Also, a report on the legacy of Federal Indian Boarding Schools. Those stories and more on Statewide.
With the movie Oppenheimer putting focus on the Manhattan Project and development of the first nuclear weapons, we revisit the work done here in Illinois.
It has been nearly a year since Republican governors began busing migrants to Chicago. Since then, about 11,000 have arrived and the city is struggling to find places for them to stay and keep them safe. Volunteers are helping.
Levees and other man-made flood control efforts have been somewhat successful. But as development continues in these areas, some are calling for wetland restoration to better manage the water.
A national survey finds issues in both nurses' education and the workplace. It's having an impact.
Chicago's Ebenezer Baptist Church has a long history, but the older building needs preservation help. That story and more on this episode of Statewide.
In the six months after the fall of Roe v. Wade, it’s been up to each state to set its own abortion laws.
About 10-thousand asylum seekers have arrived in Chicago since last summer. It's causing stress on support services, including housing and medical care.
It can be awkward conversation when talking to those who are grieving. But an author tells us it's an important one.
A researcher with the Union of Concerned Scientists says a dust storm that resulted in deadly accidents along an Illinois interstate this month could become more common with climate change. She's urging better conservation measures.
Gun violence is more than just a big city problem. New research confirms smaller cities are seeing a rise in gun crimes, at rates that are often higher than larger, urban areas.
At least 22 Chicago police officers have committed suicide in the past five years. We hear what the police union is doing about it. That story and more on Statewide.
While some families say it has helped their children's education, there are critics who argue it hurts public schools.
This week on Statewide, we listen to a series from Side Effects Public Media on substance use and recovery.
There has been a lot of focus on urban food deserts, forcing people in cities to travel farther to access fresh food items. But that problem also exists in rural areas. At least two Illinois counties lack a grocery store.
While the city's signature pie looks similar to many others, it is unique. The main reason: the cheese.
The longtime home of the Chicago White Sox, Comiskey Park, met the wrecking ball more than three decades ago. But a documentary recalls the final season and what made the site so unique.
A new investigation from member station WBEZ finds Illinois' lifeline program for kids is buckling under the weight of demand, along with a lack of funding and capacity.
Last year, nine children 17 years old or younger were killed on a weekday between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. in Chicago.
While Democrats have been able to claim victory at the state level and pass more progressive laws, there is growing dissatisfaction in areas Republicans represent. Several counties have even gone on record supporting secession from Illinois.
Gun violence has become the leading cause of death among young people. Those whose job it is to bury the victims know that too well.
On this episode, we learn more about challenges facing cannabis craft growers. These are often in disadvantaged areas. Dozens of licenses have been issued in Illinois, but many are having trouble with financing needed to get up and running.
A 30 year experiment found the animals can help insect and plant populations and, possibly, make the prairie more resilient to climate change.
The average winter temperature in Illinois has risen about five degrees since 1970. We learn about the effects on farmers.
Enrollment fell hard at most community colleges during the pandemic. At schools like Waubonsee Community College, it’s starting to come back up. But adult education roared back — enrollment more than doubled this fall. That story and more on this episode of Statewide.
Many rural hospitals are on track to experience their worst financial year in decades. Lawmakers say a new federal designation could be a lifeline. But others aren't so sure.
Grocery store closures happen everywhere. But in some lower income and minority neighborhoods, the impact can be devastating. Activists argue companies are purposely disinvesting in these communities.
The bobcat was hunted to near extinction. But protections allowed the population to rise. Now, hunting and trapping is allowed. But some conservationists think that goes too far.
Online learning became more common during the pandemic. It's also given an opportunity to some former offenders a chance to stay enrolled in prison classes upon release.
Brenda Protz lost her daughter, Jenna, three years ago this month. The 14 year old from Vandalia was riding in a car with her grandparents and her best friend when another driver struck them head-on, killing all four.
This week marks another anniversary of the famous speech. We talk with an expert about what Lincoln wrote and how it came to be.
Election Day proved an overwhelming success for Illinois Democrats. Along with maintaining all statewide offices, the party has a supermajority in the state's General Assembly and pulled out wins in targeted congressional races.
After a period that saw limits on indoor dining, restaurants are now dealing with a different set of problems. Inflation has led to a rise in food and labor costs.
Jon Meacham's new book is titled "And There Was Light: Abraham Lincoln and the American Struggle."
It was October 11, 1983. A small commuter plane went down in a southern Illinois farm field. All ten people aboard died. After the crash, details began emerging that changed the air industry.
The number of challenges being filed against certain books has grown in the past few years. Schools and libraries are becoming a battleground in these cultural and political battles. That story and more on this episode of Statewide.
As war continues in their homeland, some Ukrainians, including women with small children, have arrived in Illinois. They are trying to live as normal. But concerns about those left behind make that difficult.
It’s not unusual for murder investigations to last weeks or months. In the meantime grieving families are left desperate for justice, and often, desperate for safety from people who have already shown they’re willing to murder. We hear one family's concerns while they wait.
A new study shows Illinois schools are unable to fill one out of every 100 teaching positions. While there are concerns about turnover and fewer people entering the field, some of the biggest challenges with filling teacher jobs are in specific subjects and locations.
Farmland in the Midwest is in demand the cost has gone up. The record prices can make it harder for young people starting out to farm their own land.
It's that time of the year when students return to the classroom. On this episode, we hear about the impact the pandemic has had on learning and the mental health of young people. We also find out how a school district in one community, still reeling from a tragedy, plans to assist the healing.
There is a growing effort to boost the number of electric vehicles on the road. We also visit the Redneck Fishing Tournament, an annual event where an invasive species is the catch of the day. Those stories and more on Statewide.
Before Roe v. Wade was overturned, abortion providers in Illinois often went to other states where their help was needed. But after the Supreme Court decision, some states have banned abortion. The result is more patients coming to Illinois, along with those who perform the procedure.
The Davenport native is one of the early greats in jazz. But he's not well known. His early death is a major reason.
The Davenport native is one of the early greats in jazz. But he's not well known. His early death is a major reason.
It's not just those wounded or their families who are traumatized after a shooting. Entire communities are impacted. That can lead to a long road to recovery. We look closer at how those who survived the Highland Park shooting this month are coping. And, we remember the Eastland Disaster.
A national suicide prevention and mental health crisis number will be active starting July 16. Advocates hope the launch of 9-8-8 will make it easier for those in need to get in touch with people who can help, similar to people have learned to call 9-1-1 for emergency situations. But there are concerns not all states are ready. Resources, such as adequate staff, are needed to make sure the system functions as intended. Otherwise, people may be left waiting on hold or their calls shifted out of their area or state.
Abortion remains legal in Illinois, but in some other states, the procedure is now banned. There are exceptions, such as in Missouri, which allows for "medical emergencies."But for doctors, there are concerns the law lacks nuance. They could be forced to decide on saving a patient's life while risking their medical license or even jail time. That story and more on this episode of Statewide.
The Supreme Court's decision overturning Roe v. Wade has led more people to raise their voices in the abortion debate. This week, we hear differing views on abortion, including from those who have undergone the procedure.
An investigation found some Illinois Department of Corrections staff kept their jobs after wrongdoing.
This month marks the 100th anniversary of one of the deadliest labor disputes in the country. Striking coal miners in the town of Herrin clashed with men brought in to operate a local mine. The situation escalated and soon turned violent. In the end, nearly two dozen people were killed, most of them strikebreakers. We look back on a dark chapter in the history of organized labor and southern Illinois.
In June 1919, Illinois was the first state that voted on ratification of the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote. While a paperwork typo forced a separate vote several days later, it doesn't take away from the state's importance in women's suffrage. That story and more reports and conversations on Statewide.
There are allegations that staff purposefully housed prisoners with people they knew would be violent, and subjected them to painful restraints for hours or sometimes days.
After the deadly elementary school shooting in Texas, a fifth grade teacher in Illinois said a student asked her "Would that happen here?” “You are in a building of adults who will do whatever it takes to keep you safe,” she told them. We talk with teacher Rebecca Gamboa about the discussion in the aftermath of the tragedy. That story and more on this episode of Statewide.
Illinois and other states got a windfall with federal pandemic aid. But new research looks at how the money is being spent and raises the possibility of problems down the road.
On this episode, a leaked U.S. Supreme Court draft opinion may signal the conservative majority of justices plan to overturn Roe v. Wade. It's a move that could restrict abortion access in many states. That would make Illinois a destination for those seeking the procedure. Lawmakers in favor of abortion rights say even though the state will protect the right to an abortion, additional legislation and other action is needed to prepare for what's to come. We'll also hear about another critical audit of a state agency, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. Those stories and more on Statewide.
It was the fall of 2020 and COVID was surging again. An outbreak at the LaSalle Veterans' Home resulted in the deaths of 36 residents. Gov. J.B. Pritzker made changes in leadership at the home and the Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs. But a new state audit questions the Illinois Department of Public Health's response when the problem became apparent. We'll discuss the audit and reaction on this episode.
Gun violence is a crisis in Illinois. The federal government provided money for the state to use on anti-violence efforts. But Illinois has only spent about one tenth of one percent of that amount so far. What's causing the delay? We have a report.And we learn about the challenging attracting — and keeping — home health aides. Those stories and more on this episode of Statewide.
On this week's episode, we speak with a person conducting seminars to help understand the way racism is built into our society. We also hear about a Ukrainian couple who fled their country and now live in the Midwest. And, the early history of legendary lawman Wyatt Earp, who was born in Illinois and spent time in Peoria. Those stories and more on Statewide.
The country was shocked when news came of President Lincoln's assassination, 157 years ago this week. But how did people react? An author went through personal letters of the time to get a glimpse into the mood of the public. And a Black Springfield High School graduate says she was denied her rightful spot as class valedictorian in the 1980s. A new documentary tells her story.
Many in the U.S. feel helpless as they watch the war in Ukraine. But we'll take you to a small gift shop in Illinois, which has become a place to show support and find a sense of belonging. Also, Russian immigrants in the state explain their thoughts watching the war unfold. Those stories and more on this episode of Statewide.
The first U.S. town founded by a Black person was in Illinois. Free Frank McWorter was formerly enslaved. He settled New Philadelphia in Pike County in the 1830s and both whites and Blacks lived there. It is now being considered for National Park status. McWorter's great-great grandson and his wife have written a book about the community and we hear from them.And we learn about how contracts for deed are used to help some individuals obtain home ownership. But things don't always work out. Those stories and more on this week's Statewide.
On this week's episode, homelessness brings its own health risks. But those in need often have more pressing concerns, like find a place to sleep or their next meal. We talk with the leader of a medical team that brings healthcare to the streets. And the lack of continued federal funding means most COVID testing programs will begin to charge the uninsured. We discuss the end of "free testing for all." Those stories and more on Statewide.
For some teachers, the return to the classroom has been rocky. Experts are saying there is a mental health crisis among young people and many are acting out. All of this comes as districts consider changes to discipline policies. We have a report.Also, why are some nursing home resident leaving their jobs only to return to the exact same work? Listen to this week's Statewide.
Chester Weger was paroled after nearly six decades in prison for the killing of three women at the state park. He has maintained his innocence. We talk with his attorney. That story and more on this episode of Statewide.
Marcus Belin is the first Black principal at a suburban high school, where the student body is primarily white. He's using his experiences to help students connect history with recent events. Also, we discuss the indictment of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and a Ukrainian college student in Illinois tells us how she's feeling about what's happening in her home country.
A new book examines how former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan rose to power and how he used it to remain in control for decades. The author, an investigative reporter for the Chicago Tribune, delves into major moments in Madigan's career and the scandals that led to his exit. And a western Illinois sailor killed in 1941 is finally coming home. Those stories and more on Statewide.
Residents of one Illinois community filed a class action lawsuit against their city over the quality of the water supply. A bad odor, discoloration and even high levels of lead made the tap water nearly unusable, according to the residents. We take a closer look at the issue.
As Lincoln's birthday approaches, we hear from the author of a new book examining the relationships and acquaintances that eventually led to emancipation. Some of those occurred here in Illinois, before Lincoln ever stepped foot in the White House.We also bring you a conversation with the new U.S. Attorney for the Central District of Illinois. He's the first Black individual to hold that office. Those stories and more on this week's Statewide.
It has been one of the most troubling mysteries of the pandemic. Why do some people wind up with lingering symptoms, months after their infections, and others don't?A doctor joins us to discuss his work that might provide some answers and relief for patients.We also talk with Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike as we mark two years of the pandemic.
The pandemic has placed a strain on the health care system. Nurses have felt the brunt. We hear from an ICU nurse about working during an unprecedented time.Also, coyotes have proven resilient. That's led to more of them, both in urban and rural areas. We find out what some states are doing about it. Those stories and more on this episode of Statewide.
A Department of Children and Family Services caseworker was attacked and killed while on a welfare check this month. It's happened before and that's making state lawmakers take notice of the dangers with the job. We talk with a former investigator who now trains those entering a career in child protection.And a pastor who lost his wife to COVID-19 tells his story. He had decided against being vaccinated, but has since teamed up with the state to spread the message that the shots save lives.Those stories and more on Statewide.
On this week's episode, we speak with Toi Hutchinson, a former state senator who also oversaw the start of recreational marijuana legalization in Illinois. She has now taken a job as CEO of the national Marijuana Policy Project. She talks about what she sees ahead for cannabis laws at the federal level. January is a time when many struggled with seasonal depression and anxiety. A psychologist tells us it's worse during the pandemic. Those stories and more on Statewide.
The City of Chicago has pumped millions of dollars into what's known as street outreach, an effort focused on reducing gun violence. But with gun crimes skyrocketing, has it worked? We also look at the health conditions inside meatpacking plants, where COVID outbreaks have been deadly. Those stories and more on this week's Statewide.
This week, we ride along with a school bus driver to find out how a difficult job is even harder to do amid a shortage of those willing to transport kids.
Experts are seeing a spike in young people threatening to harm themselves and others. Some struggle with severe developmental disabilities. The problem has worsened during the pandemic with treatment facilities at capacity and short on staff. We have a report.And we examine the history of religious exemptions to vaccines. Those stores and more on this episode of Statewide.
As AIDS cases first began showing up in Illinois, the disease was a mystery. As part of our series AIDS At 40, we look back to the beginning, the fear and the stigma. Several communities in the Midwest are trying to pump up their economies by offering incentives to get people to move there. We'll find out how that's working. And with the eviction moratorium expired, many are at risk of being displaced. We get an update from one county. Those stories and more on Statewide.
The disruption in the global supply chain means a lot of businesses and entrepreneurs are unable to fully restock their supplies, creating limited inventories. The cost of items is also going up. We'll hear how some businesspeople are coping right here in Illinois. That story and more on this episode of Statewide.
An investigation by Harvest Public Media and Investigate Midwest delves into the influence of corporations on public universities across the Midwest. We'll hear more reporting on the subject.
A doctor, who is gay, was on the front lines of the AIDS crisis in the 80's and 90's. He tells about a feeling of helplessness as patients battled a disease without hope. It's part of our AIDS at 40 series.We also hear from parents as they consider COVID vaccinations for their younger children. Those stories and more on this episode of Statewide.
The arrival of a meatpacking plant in one Midwest community brought jobs and development. But it has also strained the social safety net. The local food pantry says half of its clients are plant employees. We take a closer look at the town's growing pains.
On this week's Statewide, a man tells about the death of his partner and close friends It's part of our look at the AIDS epidemic, 40 years after the first case was diagnosed in Illinois.
While larger cities have seen newspaper staffs decimated, some smaller communities have far less coverage, if any at all. The rise of the internet and how people access information have changed the traditional news model. We'll examine the problem and some possible solutions.
Illinois is considered one of the most progressive states in the nation when it comes to abortion laws. But it still requires a parent or guardian to be informed before a minor can can have the procedure. That could soon change. The issue is expected to be debated this month. And it was 150 years ago this month the Great Chicago Fire erupted in the city. But not everything was destroyed. We'll learn more about what survived, at least for a while. Those stories and more on this episode of Statewide.
Economic investment, and the jobs that follow, tends to happen in predominantly white communities. The opposite is true in Black neighborhoods. On this episode of Statewide, we examine what's behind the disparity. And we look back three decades at a protest in the Shawnee National Forest.
Supporters of school dress codes say they help promote discipline and can actually improve safety of students. But many find them discriminatory and sexist. We'll hear how some students have pushed back on the policy. And Sears is closing its final store in Illinois. We recap the rise and fall of what was once the nation's largest retailer. These stories and more on Statewide.
COVID-19 vaccine mandates have been implemented as a way to increase the number of people getting the shots. However, both the federal and state orders allow those with religious objections to skip the vaccinations. Governments have protected that choice for years. But during a pandemic, there are concerns some are exploiting a loophole. We examine the history of religious exemptions and efforts to tighten the rules. We also hear how the return to the classroom hasn't been easy for some young learners. Those stories and more on this week's Statewide.
The NFL's Chicago Bears have called Soldier Field home since 1971. But the team is apparently eyeing a suburban site. Can Chicago keep the Bears in the city? And what would the club gain by moving?That story and more on this week's Statewide.