Keep up with news in Central Illinois every weekday with 217 Today. Hear the day’s headlines, along with one deeper dive, in just ten minutes. Learn about the people and places that make Central Illinois unique with 217 Today.
First elected in 2016, Susana Mendoza has been Illinois’ comptroller for nearly a decade. Now, she’s stepping aside. And four Democrats are vying for the seat.

217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Mar. 12 – Mar. 15
The Jupiter String Quartet, a pet supply sale, the Lucky Dog 5K, and of course, live music.

217 Today: Knox College professor turns prairie, loss into poems in “Broken Hallelujah”
In western Illinois, there are gravel roads cut through open prairie, writer and Knox College professor Cyn Kitchen has been paying attention to seasons, to loss, and to faith.

217 Today: Protein is everywhere right now. We asked experts: Do we really need more?
Protein is everywhere. From Starbucks lattes to new dietary guidelines, which ask Americans to prioritize protein. But nutrition experts are wondering whether or not the protein craze is warranted.

217 Today: Mosses are the underdogs of the plant world. These scientists are trying to protect them
Mosses are the underdogs of the plant world. Now a group of scientists is coming together to protect them.

217 Today: After one of the driest years on record, we’re finally seeing rain in Central Illinois
Since Monday, we’ve seen a LOT of rain in central Illinois … but is it enough to end the drought? The state climatologist tells us why we have a long way to go.

217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Mar. 5 – Mar. 8
A screening of an Oscar-nominated film, opening nights of two plays, a tournament for a Quidditch-inspired sport, a cat show, and, of course, live music.

217 Today: Illinois schools counted on federal grants to ease a shortage of school psychologists. After cancelation and a year of court battles, the future’s uncertain
Illinois schools counted on federal grants to ease a shortage of school psychologists. After cancelation and a year of court battles, the future’s uncertain.

217 Today: State Farm reports strong growth — and shares some of it with policyholders
State Farm is sharing some of its profits with policyholders after having success last year.

217 Today: Flyover Film Studios in Rantoul brings new growth to central Illinois’ film industry
The story behind the new Flyover movie studios in Rantoul. The studio launched only a few years ago – but it’s already being recognized by state leaders for bringing notable economic growth to Illinois.
