WGLT's Sound Ideas - Full Episodes

The head of the YWCA says he believes a majority of Bloomington Aldermen have no interest in a Welcoming City ordinance. Dontae Latson shares his take on Twin City immigration politics with GLT's Ryan Denham. Learn more about Allerton Park in Piatt County. This historic, sprawling park and grand buildings are planning for a future without state funding. Laura Kennedy has that interview. And Jon Norton talks with Spider Saloff. The internationally renowned cabaret performer is headed to

The Bloomington City Council has not shown a lot of appetite for a video gambling terminal license fee. Mayor Tari Renner thinks that's a mistake because terminal owners in Bloomington have a million dollars in pure profit each year. Renner thinks such a tax is progressive and useful to balance the budget. Plus, Mayor Chris Koos of Normal talks about a multi sport complex study. And Judy Valente reports on lead levels in homes in the twin cities. 25 children had elevated blood levels of the

An Illinois State University scholar says fighting over the future of the country won't go away soon -- it's built in to American cultural individualism. Judy Valente talks about threats to Democracy with ISU Professor Lane Crothers. Rivian Automotive is in the process to get re-certified for ongoing tax breaks. You'll get an update on the progress on the auto manufacturer occupying the former Mitsubishi plant from the head of the Economic Development Council. And you'll hear about new sculpture

GLT’s Judy Valente speaks with a local domestic violence expert about how abused women can prepare to exit a relationship. Mike McCurdy talks to two women who are looking to create Bloomington’s first inclusive playground for children with disabilities. And Jon Norton talks to Illinois State University’s women’s basketball coach about this weekend’s Play4Kay game at Redbird Arena.

Governor Bruce Rauner's proposed budget transfers pension costs to school districts and universities over the next four years. GLT’s Ryan Denham examines how that plays with central Illinois lawmaker Keith Sommer and his opponent for the fall election, Jill Blair. An Illinois State University professor says there's more at play in school shootings than inadequate gun control. You'll hear from Julie Webber, who's written two books on school violence. And Laura Kennedy previews a play on stage at

Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner makes his annual budget address to lawmakers and the public. Governor Rauner says a $1 billion tax cut should be the top priority for this year's legislative session. The Republican said Wednesday it could be achieved by changing the way pensions are doled out to state employees. But the pension changes are contentious and experts question whether a court would find it constitutional.

Bloomington Mayor Tari Renner discusses how and when a Welcoming City ordinance will be decided. Renner talks with GLT's Ryan Denham about the e-mail sent by five Aldermen asking that a draft ordinance be pulled from consideration and about the politics surrounding that issue. He'll also discuss a move away from privatizing solid waste services. Find out how the community of Dayton Ohio is handling a Welcoming City ordinance. It's called Welcoming America and it's broader than the one called for

Find out how the job of McLean County Republican Party Chair is almost like being a parent. State Senator Jason Barickman and other McLean County Republicans talk with GLT’s Ryan Denham about how the party is changing. The Bloomington City Council will not be considering a welcoming cities ordinance tonight . It was pulled from the agenda at the request of five aldermen, but aldermen will get an earful from a coalition of groups pushing for the law affording some protections to the immigrant

With 25 jobs cut from staff in the Town of Normal, incoming City Manager Pam Reece says she's aware of potential burnout for those remaining workers. GLT's Ryan Denham also talks with Reece about Uptown Normal and job creation. Most of us listen to music, thanks to Internet streaming providers. But Bloomington-Normal's 3 record stores are still doing fine. Hear from the three entrepreneurs who sell analog music in the digital age. And during an edition of Grow find how the central Illinois wind

Hear about the numerous attempts over the decades to make a west Bloomington grocery store a reality. GLT continues its reporting on food deserts. You’ll also hear a conversation with Bloomington Economic Development Coordinator Austin Grammer about efforts to establish a supermarket on Bloomington’s West Side. And it’s a conversation with members of the Brazilionaires. The Latin band joins with an orchestra for a special Valentine’s day concert.