U.S. Rep. LaHood beats Democratic challenger Paul Nolley in Illinois' 16th District

U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood won re-election for a seventh term in Washington, fending off a challenge from a political newcomer who benefitted from Republican unrest but could not overcome a political map that heavily favors the incumbent.

Peoria County holds special burial service for unclaimed deceased

The Peoria County Coroner's Office, OSF Saint Francis, and others collaborated on a special mass burial for deceased individuals unclaimed by family or friends.

White House photographer Pete Souza brings 'Eyewitness to History' to Bradley

Bradley University’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute will bring former Reagan and Obama presidential photographer Pete Souza to campus as part of its Voices and Visionaries program. For WCBU Reports, Souza shared how his career went from small town newspapers in Kansas, to the Chicago Sun Times, …

Peoria food allergy advocacy group touts Teal Pumpkin Halloween

Halloween is a fun time for kids to get creative with costumes and go door to door collecting candy from friends and neighbors. But it becomes more "trick" than treat when the kids have food allergies. One wrong piece of candy with the wrong ingredients can have dire consequences. Red Sneakers for…

Midwest Food Bank expanding Morton location to improve disaster relief

Midwest Food Bank is expanding its Morton facility as part of boosting its capacity for disaster relief. Earlier this month, the Central Illinois-based nonprofit broke ground on a year-long expansion and renovation of the site.

GOP State Rep. Ryan Spain faces Democratic challenger Nicole Dopler on Nov. 3

Republican incumbent state Rep. Ryan Spain of Peoria faces a challenge from a first-time candidate Democratic challenger Nicole Dopler in the bid to represent a largely rural district that includes parts of Peoria and Woodford counties. WCBU's Joe Deacon reports.  

Mayor Ali's priorities as Peoria city leaders work on next budget

We've reached the time of year for the City of Peoria's annual budget process. City council members this week began discussions on the recommended $348 million spending plan. It includes using around $10 million in fund-balance to bridge the gap with anticipated revenue. In her latest regular inter…

Peoria's Birth to Five Illinois branch fills gaps in childcare and helps parents

Birth to Five Illinois helps families with children ages birth to 5 get equal treatment. Its Peoria County council manager spoke to WCBU about the group and how social media helps.

Tazewell County Veterans Assistance Commission expanding its services and scope

The Tazewell County Veterans Assistance Commission is hiring more staff and offering help with employment. They've expanded the staff from one full-time employee and one part-time employee to six full-time veteran service officers.

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.