WCBU Reports

In today's episode, you'll hear how the federal legislative package for the 2023 Farm Bill is shaping up. And the Jon Buckley Memorial Garden is commemorating its 10th anniversary this weekend with a summer vendor fair and fundraiser. Plus, hear from Acme Comics owner Bob Gordon on how his comic book store has changed and adapted over the past three decades.

In today's episode, you'll hear about the status of the student debt freeze and what an extension would mean to some Peoria area borrowers. And Peoria raised Brandon Alexander Williams shares the power of rap and live poetry. Plus, hear about a new Welcoming Center in Peoria focused on providing resources to immigrants and non-native English speakers.

ATP Episode description: In today's episode, you'll hear from Peoria Public Schools director of school safety about what kind of approach is needed to address community violence in the city. And PeoriaCorps is now accepting applications for its six-month workforce development pre apprenticeship program. Hear what the program entails. Plus, a retired Caterpillar Inc. employee shares some of his favorite memories from his time working at Big Yellow.

In a conversation with WCBU reporter Joe Deacon, Peoria Police Chief Eric Echevarria talks about the department’s progress in his first year as chief and his expectations for the years ahead.

In today's episode, you'll hear about a Peoria native who is returning home with his band The Hard Bop Messengers to perform an album based on people watching. And Peoria Police Chief Eric Echevarria assess his first year as the police chief. Plus, on this weeks episode of Out and About Chip Joyce joins host Jenn Gordon to talk about the ‘practically perfect’ musical “Mary Poppins”.

In today's episode, you'll hear conversations with both candidates running to represent the new 46th district state senate seat. Peoria Democrat Dave Koehler has represented the 46th district in the Illinois state senate since 2006. He faces a challenge from his Republican opponent Desi Anderson.

In today's episode, you'll hear about a daycare partnering with Peoria teen moms to provide them with childcare while the mom attends high school. And more on the organization Make Your Marq which equips students at Peoria Public Schools with the tools needed to make good choices. Plus, East Bluff community activist Jessie McGowan provides his thoughts on youth intervention and violence prevention in the city of Peoria.

In today's episode, WCBU news director Tim Shelley talks Democratic candidate Eric Sorensen about his campaign for Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Sorensen came out on top of a crowded Democratic primary to succeed retiring Congresswoman Cheri Bustos. He will face Republican Esther Joy King in what's expected to be an expensive and closely-watched campaign to represent the district spanning from the Wisconsin and Iowa borders to Peoria and Bloomington.

In today's episode, this weekend is the last of a state tax holiday to help families buy school supplies. You'll hear what resources are available. And a Peoria native is returning home to the River City to direct a play near and dear to his heart. Plus, this week's episode of Out and About highlights the Penguin Players upcoming production of 'Back to the 80's'.

In today's episode, a former White House expert on climate science weighs in on the Inflation Reduction Act and our climate. Plus, a deep dive into the community gardens located around the River City including what makes each one unique and what common goals they share.