Category Archives: Local News
State Farm to hike rates again to offset higher claims costs
State Farm Insurance, based in Bloomington, confirms it will raise auto insurance rates 2.2 percent effective Sept. 4. (WJBC file photo) By Howard PackowitzBLOOMINGTON – Bloomington’s...
Jul 07, 2017
Two suspects, including victim’s daughter, charged with Funks Grove killing
Matthew Isbell of Marquette Heights is one of two people charged with murdering Teresa Poehlman of East Peoria. Her body was discovered last Sunday in Funks Grove. (McLean County Sheriff’s...
Jul 07, 2017
Illinois schools still face uncertainty even after budget passed
Illinois State University President Larry Dietz says ISU will see a near $9 million funding cut from the state even with a new budget in place. (WJBC file photo)By Eric StockNORMAL – Illinois fi...
Jul 07, 2017
Childress seeking re-election as Livingston County Sheriff
Tony Childress was appointed Livingston County Sheriff in 2013, then won election in 2014. (Photo by Cynthia Grau/WJEZ)By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ NewsPONTIAC – Livingston County Sheriff Tony Childress...
Jul 07, 2017
Charges dropped in ISU drug rape case
McLean County prosecutors dropped sexual assault charges against Shawn Childs Jr. (Photo courtesy McLean County Jail)By Eric StockBLOOMINGTON – Prosecutors have dropped sexual assault charges st...
Jul 07, 2017
Christmas in July hopes to help high demand at Bloomington food pantry
The Salvation Army will have red kettles at four Bloomington-Normal locations on Friday. (WJBC file photo)(WJBC file photo)By WJBC StaffBLOOMINGTON – The Salvation Army of Bloomington is gearing...
Jul 06, 2017
‘Giant’ parks and rec chief mourned in Normal
Ron Blemler directed Normal’s Parks and Recreation Department for 33 years until his retirement in 2002. Blemler died Tuesday. He was 74. (Photo courtesy East Lawn Funeral Home)By Howard P...
Jul 06, 2017
U of I abduction suspect ordered held without bond before trial
Yingying Zhang allegedly fought her attacker, according to statements allegedly made by suspected kidnapper Brendt Christensen. A magistrate ordered Christensen held without bond.(Photo courtesy...
Jul 05, 2017
Portillo’s set for Aug. 15 opening in Normal
Portillo’s plans to open a location on Landmark Dr. in Normal on Aug. 15. (Photo by Sam Howzit) By Howard PackowitzNORMAL – Portillo’s Restaurant in Normal will be open for busi...
Jul 05, 2017
McLean County Coroner identifies body found in Funks Grove
By Patrick BaronBLOOMINGTON – McLean County Coroner Kathy Davis has identified the woman who was found dead in Funks Grove on Sunday.The woman, 47-year-old Teresa Poehlman of East Peoria, was fo...
Jul 05, 2017
