Lincoln's Monarch Center setting the example for trauma-informed juvenile corrections

A state prison in Lincoln is setting a new standard for juvenile corrections. Monarch Youth Center uses a trauma-informed approach that incarcerated youths say is changing their lives for the better. WCBU's Lauren Warnecke reports.

Overcoming news deserts in rural America takes community involvement

A journalism professor who has roots in Pekin and Peoria says journalists must do more than cover the news; they must actively build community for local news outlets to survive in a challenging world.

Illini Bluffs High School team among 10 finalists in NPR's Student Podcast Challenge

A group of high school students from Illini Bluffs High School in Glasford in Peoria County was among 10 finalists in this year’s NPR Student Podcast Challenge. In its 8th year, the contest had more than 1,500 entries from 42 states across both the high school and middle school categories for 2026.

East Peoria council staunchly defends use of Flock cameras, approves 10-camera expansion

East Peoria City Council members were unmoved by a protest and public comments urging them to rethink Flock police cameras. In an interview with WCBU after the meeting, East Peoria Police Chief David Catton said the technology is a critical tool for his department.

Congressional candidates discuss expanding executive power and need for political will

Since the time of the first President of the United States to today, executive power has steadily grown to address crises, a changing electorate and evolving interpretations of the U.S. Constitution. Generally speaking, the Central Illinois congressional candidates this year agree the House and Sen…

Congressional candidates debate critical, cautious views on Iran war

Foreign policy may not be the top issue for voters in Central Illinois this election cycle, but the war in Iran — or conflict, depending on who is talking — undeniably takes up some of the oxygen in Central Illinois congressional races. Plus, the issue relates closely to what else is top of mind fo…

Congressional candidates address inflation and the rising cost of living

In Illinois’ 16th Congressional District, incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood and the Democratic challenger Paul Nolley, and in the 17th District, incumbent Democrat U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen and challenger Republican Dillan Vancil, hear it every day: high gasoline prices, high diesel prices,…

Congressional candidates offer positions on budget deficit and Social Security fixes

The major party candidates for Congress in Central Illinois have significantly different views of how to deal with looming financial crises over the federal budget deficit, national debt, and Social Security. Charlie Schlenker reports.

Why Bradley University is taking a new approach to homecoming

Bradley University celebrates homecoming this weekend, placing a greater emphasis on the three-day event to welcome alumni and supporters back to campus. Highlighting this year's festivities is an inaugural "yard party" Saturday, along with a ribbon-cutting for the new Zaleski Outdoor Recreation Co…

Retired meteorologist Chuck Collins to teach broadcasting class at Bradley

After 50 years in broadcasting on radio and television, Chuck Collins retired in late 2025. But the former WMBD and WEEK meteorologist is still busy, including teaching this October at Bradley University's Osher Life Long Learning Institute.