WCBU Reports

OSF Healthcare has launched an equity initiative to address disparities in care.

Kevin Harlan may have left his beat as general manager of Peoria’s WMBD-TV Channel 31 but he’s still keeping the beat.

In today's episode, you'll hear highlighted excerpts of a conversation with Peoria Mayor Rita Ali after her first State of the City Address. Then, we'll revisit a conversation WCBU's Tim Shelley had with Pekin Public Library's Jared Olar about the five Black Union soldiers from Tazewell County that were present on Juneteenth in 1865. Plus, Jenn Gordon returns with Out and About highlighting Art Inc.'s first theatrical production. Nikki Romain and Vivian Standifird talk about what audiences can expect from "Smart People".

In today's special episode, you'll hear about equity within the Greater Peoria area. First, Sarah Nardi will talk with OSF CEO Roxanna Crosser about inequity within the healthcare system, and their new Health Equity Action Council. Then, WCBU's student reporter Jordan Mead covers the inequities within the public transportation system in Peoria, and what's being done about it. Finally, on a new episode of WCBU's FOOD TREK, Tory Dahlhoff examines racial disparities within farming.

Caterpillar is moving the company's world headquarters to Texas beginning this year.

In today's episode, you'll hear how Caterpillar is moving its world headquarters to Texas. WCBUs Tim Shelley updates us on the company's decision to leave Illinois. Plus, a banking institution is hoping to use a new space to boost economic opportunity on Peoria's south side. You'll also heart about Art Inc Peoria's programming that impacts children on a deeper level then just providing after school and summer enrichment. And get an inside look on what its like to work in the television news business in the Peoria-Bloomington market from WMBD and WYZZ-TV's retired general manager Kevin Harlan.

A grand opening ceremony Wednesday afternoon touted the Busey Bank Bridge, a community space intended to improve the area’s financial literacy and access to economic opportunities.

The banks of the Illinois River are just about the only place in the world you can spot a decurrent false aster growing in its natural habitat.

On today's episode, you'll hear from the three candidates running for positions on the Peoria Public Schools Board of Education. You'll also get a glimpse into life of a unique flower that is found only along the banks of the Illinois River. And we'll take a deep dive into the food insecurity issue that has plaguing Peoria for years, and three community members who are coming up with innovative solutions to help.

Illinois’ primary voting season is underway, and the newly drawn 91st house district has four candidates vying for the open seat. In this episode, we'll take a closer look at the candidates looking to get their name on the ballot. Scott Preston and James Fisher are the Republican candidates, with Sharon Chung and Karla Bailey Smith representing the Democrats. You’ll hear perspectives from all of them.