After 45 years, roof of Governor’s Mansion gets needed attention

By Haley Kosik/WJEZ News The organization raising money to renovate the Illinois governor’s mansion said the most pressing need is replacing the ailing roof on the 160-year-old building. In a news release, the Illinois Executive Mansion Association said it plans to release construction specifications to contractors interested in repairing the roof. Leaks from the roof…MORE

President shows support for trade bill

By Haley Kosik/WJEZ News U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) says his opinion hasn’t changed on the “fast track” trade bill which will be considered by the Senate next week. President Obama favors this legislation, which gives him the authority to submit trade deals to Congress for an up-or-down vote without amendments. He sees it as…MORE

Marijuana, sexuality therapy and womens’ rights bills now in the hands of the governor

By Haley Kosik/WJEZ News Throughout his gubernatorial campaign, GOV. Bruce Rauner insisted he didn’t have a social agenda and was focused solely on Illinois’ deepening financial crisis. He’ll now be forced to stake out positions on a range of social issues thanks to the majority-Democrat General Assembly passing proposals this spring that would reduce penalties…MORE

Jerry Rice: Great Wide Receiver, Even Better Man

By Mark Myre/WJEZ Sports He is the greatest wide out I have ever seen.  And I want the folks at home to know that he is a great guy on and off the field.  Jerry Rice flew in to Bo Jackson’s Annual Celebrity Golf Outing in Bolingbrook the other day and he was great.  …MORE

Help bring William Shatner to Pontiac

By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News The veterans at the Livingston County War Museum-Dal Estes Education Center are sending out a plea for people in the community to help them bring William Shatner to Pontiac. Shatner, best known for his fame on the television 1960s television series Star Trek, is joining the Legion Riders on a trip…MORE

Use of medical marijuana closer for some patients

By Haley Kosik/WJEZ News Sufferers from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may be able to legally apply for medical marijuana cards to begin use for treatment. Medical marijuana has yet to be legally prescribed, delivered, or ingested in Illinois, but the drive continues to add to the list of eligible ailments. The legislature has sent…MORE

State senators hear two sides to college affordability

By Haley Kosik/WJEZ News Illinois senators have heard the story of college affordability, or the lack of it, from a panel of experts. A University of Illinois instructor is more optimistic. Jennifer Delaney, assistant professor in the Department of Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership told senators going to college provides students a tremendous opportunity. Delaney…MORE

Update on Springfield with Rep. Tom Bennett

By Haley Kosik/WJEZ News As July 1 is right around the corner, for the fiscal year of 2016, the state budget hasn’t been decided. According to State Representative Tom Bennett (R- Gibson City), this has, and will continue to cause issues to the people of Illinois. Bennett said there are some major dates coming up…MORE

Restored Judge making its debut

By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News A fully restored mint turquoise 1970 Judge will be having a coming out party Saturday, June 27th in Pontiac. The restoration project by Tim and Penny Dye, took 25 years and they are unveiling their work at Chautauqua Park at 6 p.m. Along with a chance to view the car, attendees…MORE

16th annual Kidsnic Sunday

By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News The 16th annual Kidsnic is coming back to Pontiac this Sunday. The event, which welcomes children and adults of all ages, is full of activities for young and old. Joel Wesselhoff was one of many present for Community Forum with Todd Wineburner earlier this week. He said he’s been coming to…MORE