The Leadoff

The Leadoff - Friday 12/19/2025

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Dec. 19, 2025. You'll hear about how changes to a worker visa program will impact a Central Illinois health care system. Plus, an interview with Twin City singer-songwriter Dan Hubbard.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 12/18/2025

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025. You'll hear from Illinois' agriculture chief about how federal economic relief will impact farmers. Plus, an interview with Normal City Manager Pam Reece.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 12/17/2025

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025. You'll hear from ISU football coach Brock Spack ahead of their semifinal game at Villanova. Plus, a look at Country Financial's origin story on its 100th birthday.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 12/16/2025

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025. You'll hear about a leadership shakeup at the Illinois Farm Bureau. Plus, ISU basketball legend Doug Collins leaves his mark on campus in a new way.

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The Leadoff's final episode to release Friday 12/19

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 17:55:04 +0000

Thank you for being a loyal subscriber to WGLT's The Leadoff. The Leadoff will release its last episode on Friday, Dec. 19. Listener habits have changed a LOT since The Leadoff debuted six years ago. Over a thousand episodes later, we've learned that individual news stories and newscasts attract the most listeners. Podcast listeners should subscribe to the Sound Ideas podcast and the WGLT Newscasts podcast for local news feeds that will be updated several times each weekday. And THANKS for listening.

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The Leadoff - Monday 12/15/2025

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Dec. 15, 2025. You'll hear about the abrupt closure of Downtown Bloomington's post office. Plus, a visit to Santa's Village (aka the Merkles' front yard) in LeRoy.

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The Leadoff - Friday 12/12/2025

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Dec. 12, 2025. You'll hear about Rivian building its own powerful AI chips for autonomous driving. Plus, what's next for Bloomington's police accountability board.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 12/11/2025

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025. You'll hear about Bloomington's new proactive approach to property maintenance issues. Plus, Twin City women share their experiences with menopause.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 12/10/2025

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025. You'll hear about ISU football's playoff run and their next matchup in California. Plus, why some McLean County Board members are criticizing their own health department inspectors.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 12/09/2025

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025. You'll hear from VisitBN about a new survey to guide the future of tourism efforts in Bloomington-Normal. Plus, an update on the Connect Transit downtown transfer center project.

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The Leadoff - Monday 12/08/2025

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Dec. 8, 2025. You'll hear reaction from Central Illinois Scouting leaders to a potential breakup with the military. Plus, more of our interview with two Illinois Supreme Court justices.

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The Leadoff - Friday 12/05/2025

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. You'll hear about Heartland Community College showcasing its apprenticeship programs. Plus, information on how to schedule a phone call from Santa.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 12/04/2025

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025. You'll hear from two Illinois Supreme Court justices during a stop in Bloomington. Plus, an interview with Normal Town Council member Kevin McCarthy.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 12/03/2025

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025. You'll hear about Brightpoint's Bloomington Crisis Nursery facing growing need -- and need helping to meet it. Plus, an interview with McLean County's Toys for Toys leader.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 12/02/2025

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025. You'll hear about how AI is changing college-level instruction. Plus, the Bloomington-Normal Deaf Club teams up with Santa and Mrs. Claus for some community engagement.

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The Leadoff - Monday 12/01/2025

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Dec. 1, 2025. You'll hear about calls for Washington -- and Springfield -- to do more to lower healthcare costs. Plus, an interview with the manager at Often Running in Normal, which is closing soon.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 11/25/2025

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025. You'll hear about McLean County investing in eye movement and memory therapy training for counselors and social workers. Plus, an interview with a Lexington man who was just honored for his volunteer work at Starved Rock State Park.

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The Leadoff - Monday 11/24/2025

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Nov. 24, 2025. You'll hear about an effort to recruit volunteers for The Immigration Project's Rapid Response Team. Plus, an interview with musician Yea Big about a new music release.

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The Leadoff - Friday 11/21/2025

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Nov. 21, 2025. You'll hear about McLean County's new behavioral health action plan. Plus, a Bloomington-Normal group is seeking public input as it looks for ways to reduce barriers to recovery services.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 11/20/2025

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. You'll hear about Normal's firefighters union raising concerns about staffing and the closure of a station that's being replaced. Plus, Part 4 of WGLT's series about mobile home parks in Bloomington-Normal.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 11/19/2025

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025. You'll hear about large pay packages for the CEOs of Rivian and Tesla, in context. Plus, Part 3 of WGLT's series about a mobile home park owner in Bloomington-Normal.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 11/18/2025

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. You'll hear about a push for Congress to do more to protect the social safety net. Plus, Part 2 of WGLT's series about the business practices of mobile home park owner Oak Wood.

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The Leadoff - Monday 11/17/2025

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's THE LEADOFF is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, November 17th. You'll hear what the new McLean County government budget means to you. Plus, a look at the business practices of a Twin City mobile home park owner.

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The Leadoff - Friday 11/14/2025

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. You'll hear about The Salvation Army's ambitious goal for this year's bell-ringing campaign. Plus, a new study raises questions about a type of gun manufacturing license in Illinois.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 11/13/2025

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025. You'll hear from Bloomington-Normal arts and cultural leaders who recently attended a statewide conference together. Plus, an interview with Bloomington Mayor Dan Brady.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 11/12/2025

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. You'll hear about LeRoy schools' new mapping system to help emergency responders. Plus, a skate with a Central Illinois hockey team for veterans.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 11/11/2025

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. You'll hear about the Veterans Treatment Court that serves McLean County. Plus, a dog trainer in Normal who is helping veterans adjust to life after service.

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The Leadoff - Monday 11/10/2025

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Monday, November 10, 2025. Food pantries wait for clarity after court rulings on SNAP benefits. And Reckoning Home is the latest of Bloomington artist Angel Ambrose's exhibitions.

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The Leadoff - Friday 11/7/2025

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Friday, November 7, 2025. The impact or tariffs on Normal-based EV maker Rivian has slightly softened. And a licensed counselor talks about the importance of human-to-human connection following the 8th annual McLean County Behavioral Health Forum.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 11/6/2025

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Thursday, November 6, 2025. A state lawmaker from Bloomington shares efforts to limit regulation on the insurance industry. And Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe says the near-future includes autonomous vehicles.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 11/5/2025

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Wednesday, November 5, 2025. The mayor of Normal answers criticism about a swiftly passed tax hike to fund the added costs of the Uptown Underpass. And Illinois Symphony music director Taichi Fukumura returns to Bloomington-Normal for the first engagement of his second season with "Hero's Journey."

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 11/4/2025

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Tuesday, November 4, 2025. A new adaptive playground makes play more accessible for elementary school students with disabilities. And attendance at Bloomington-Normal's food pantries has surged as some SNAP benefits are paused.

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The Leadoff - Monday 11/3/2025

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Nov. 3, 2025. You'll hear about some Uptown business owners concerned about tonight's underpass tax vote. Plus, a checkup on the Twin City housing market.

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The Leadoff - Friday 10/31/2025

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Oct. 31, 2025. You'll hear about a school report card's results for Twin City schools. Plus, a closer look at the new tax proposal that would fund the Uptown Normal underpass.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 10/30/2025

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. You'll hear the latest development in the Reditus Labs saga. Plus, an interview with an AI expert who's coming to speak at Illinois State University next week.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 10/29/2025

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to start your day for Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. You'll hear about demolition starting on the Front N Center building in Downtown Bloomington. Plus, an interview with ISU women's basketball coach Kristen Gillespie.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 10/28/2025

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025. You'll hear about U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen pushing for the USDA to keep funding SNAP food benefits during the shutdown. Plus, an update on the future of the Bloomington Public Safety and Community Relations Board.

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The Leadoff - Monday 10/27/2025

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Oct. 27, 2025. You'll hear about McLean County's recycling rate hitting a new milestone. Plus, a visit to a killer Halloween decorator's home in Gridley.

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The Leadoff - Friday 10/24/2025

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Oct. 24, 2025. You'll hear about a new budget model that will be used at Illinois State University. Plus, an interview with NPR's Steve Inskeep, who will visit Normal next week for WGLT's Radio Faces.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 10/23/2025

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025. You'll hear about a utility dispute that's holding up the creation of more housing in Lexington. Plus, meet a Mackinaw teenager with his sights set on the Olympics.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 10/22/2025

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025. You'll hear about a planned roundabout near Rivian's plant that's causing concerns for some farmers. Plus, a Muslim-American scholar on education and Middle Eastern identity from Bloomington worries the long-term commitment needed to help Palestinians rebuild may never come.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 10/21/2025

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025. You'll hear about a special McLean County Board meeting today focused on a late audit -- and the problems it's causing. Plus, get your hands on some very, very big pumpkins.

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The Leadoff - Monday 10/20/2025

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Oct. 20, 2025. You'll hear from an expert on homelessness during a swing through Bloomington. Plus, a visit to Bloomington-Normal's newest movie theater.

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The Leadoff - Friday 10/17/2025

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Oct. 17, 2025. You'll hear about advocates asking the governor to release discretionary funds for higher education. Plus, a conversation with a Twin City photographer about his new book.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 10/16/25

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025. You'll hear some creative ideas for what to do with a prime piece of real estate in Downtown Bloomington. Plus, an interview with Bloomington's fire chief about changing staff schedules.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 10/15/2025

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Scams are on the rise -- and no surprise -- seniors are a top target. And Bloomington's District 87 to sell its cash bonds totaling 20-million-dollars for building improvements.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 10/14/2025

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Tuesday, October 14, 2025. One of central Illinois' most recognizable meteorologists is set to sign off after a half century on-air. And renewed hope for peace in the Middle East from the leader of Bloomington-Normal's Jewish community.

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The Leadoff - Monday 10/13/2025

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 13:19:41 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Monday, October 13, 2025. The McLean County Health Department has added a free virtual training to its suicide prevention services. And figure skating icon and cancer advocate Scott Hamilton comes to Bloomington-Normal next month.

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The Leadoff - Friday 10/10/2025

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Oct. 10, 2025. You'll hear about a half dozen ISU students in the National Guard getting called up for active duty. Plus, a visit with two food bloggers who are finding an audience in Central Illinois.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 10/9/2025

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Oct. 9, 2025. You'll hear from an ISU researcher about the impact of Trump administration moves on vaccines. Plus, an OSF Healthcare exercise physiologist designs a device that helps a Bloomington kid stay active as she fights cancer

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 10/8/25

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025. You'll hear about a plan to fill a piece of prime real estate in Uptown Normal. Plus, a visit to an ISU campus ministry embarking on a major remodeling project in their new home.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 10/7/25

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025. You'll hear about a lawsuit aimed at stopping President Trump from deploying National Guard troops to Chicago. Plus, a look at efforts to replace an aging electronic record management system that integrates information for the courts, law enforcement, and other stakeholders in McLean County.

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The Leadoff - Monday 10/6/25

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Oct. 6, 2025. You'll hear about the impact of tariffs on Illinois' manufacturing sector. Plus, an interview with an expert on sanctuary at ISU marks Latinx Heritage Month.

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The Leadoff - Friday 10/3/25

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

This is a special Fall Fund Drive edition of WGLT's The Leadoff, featuring the fifth and final story in our new weeklong series about manufacturing, called Made in Bloomington. Follow the series at WGLT.org/Made

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The Leadoff - Thursday 10/2/25

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

This is a special Fall Fund Drive edition of WGLT's The Leadoff, featuring the fourth story in our new weeklong series about manufacturing, called Made in Bloomington. Follow the series at WGLT.org/Made

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 10/1/25

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

This is a special Fall Fund Drive edition of WGLT's The Leadoff, featuring the third story in our new weeklong series about manufacturing, called Made in Bloomington. Follow the series at WGLT.org/Made

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 09/30/25

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

This is a special Fall Fund Drive edition of WGLT's The Leadoff, featuring the second story in our new weeklong series about manufacturing, called Made in Bloomington. Follow the series at WGLT.org/Made

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Monday 09/29/25

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

This is a special Fall Fund Drive edition of WGLT's The Leadoff, featuring the first story in our new weeklong series about manufacturing, called Made in Bloomington. Follow the series at WGLT.org/Made

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Friday 09/26/25

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Sept. 26, 2025. You'll hear about two Republican candidates for governor visiting Bloomington-Normal. Plus, an interview with Bloomington's city manager about the local grocery tax.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 09/25/2025

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. You'll hear about challenges facing the trucking industry, which includes several Twin City companies. Plus, a University of Illinois Extension educator talks about intergenerational communication gaps -- and how to close them.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 09/24/2025

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025. You'll hear about the impact of cashless bail on the McLean County jail population. Plus, a Bloomington nonprofit recently won a federal grant to study those who struggle with substance abuse.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 09/23/2025

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025. You'll hear about former State Farm CEO Ed Rust Jr.'s remarks at Illinois Wesleyan about liberal arts education. Plus, a look at how Home Sweet Ministries evolved over the past 108 years.

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The Leadoff - Monday 09/22/2025

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Sept. 22, 2025. You'll hear about the drought and burn ban in Central Illinois. Plus, a look at maternal health gaps in Central Illinois.

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The Leadoff - Friday 09/19/2025

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Sept. 19, 2025. You'll hear about pressures facing immigrants who identify as LGTBQ. Plus, a preview of the Nomad Theatre's last run of site-specific shows, including courtroom dramas.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 09/18/2025

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025. You'll hear about how concerns about immigration enforcement depressed turnout at a Hispanic heritage celebration at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Bloomington. Plus, an interview with a Ramón Cruz, the former president of the environmental group Sierra Club, during a stop in Normal.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 09/17/2025

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. You'll hear about Rivian breaking ground on a new manufacturing plant in Georgia. Plus, you'll hear from the first engineering students at Illinois State University.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 09/16/2025

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025. You'll hear about a social media post about Charlie Kirk's death causing issues for a McLean County Nursing Home employee. Plus, you'll visit a new grocery store in Bloomington.

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The Leadoff - Monday 09/15/2025

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Monday, September 15, 2025. Leaders of the Young Republicans chapters in McLean, Woodford and Tazewell county reflect on the life and legacy of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. And a grant planned for expansion of the Route 66 bike trail has been canceled.

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The Leadoff - Friday 09/12/2025

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Friday, September 12, 2025. A fired CDC worker gives a pep talk in Bloomington-Normal as part of a statewide convening of public health professionals. And an exhibit commemorating the 9-11 terrorist attacks is coming to Central Illinois.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 09/11/2025

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Thursday, September 11, 2025. The city of Bloomington takes steps to address the housing crisis and some worry about what it might mean for them. And progress is underway renovating the Pantagraph building, set to become a center for wrap-around youth support led by Lifelong Access.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 09/10/2025

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Wednesday, September 10, 2025. One McLean County law enforcement agency inadvertently shared license plate data with federal immigration authorities. And Rader Family Farms prepares for opening day with a new corn maze celebrating Country Financial's centennial.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 09/09/2025

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Tuesday, September 9, 2025. A wastewater modernization project aims to reduce flooding in Bloomington-Normal. And retired journalist and author Steve Vogel has written a new memoir detailing stories from his career.

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The Leadoff - Monday 09/08/2025

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Sept. 8, 2025. You'll hear an update about Downtown Bloomington's performing arts venues. Plus, a preview of a new photo exhibition in Bloomington that shares the stories and craftsmanship behind a popular Mexican doll.

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The Leadoff - Friday 09/05/2025

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Sept. 5, 2025. You'll hear about rising tension over a shared sales tax fund in McLean County. Plus, how changes to Illinois' public defense system could impact its youngest stakeholders.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 09/04/2025

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025. You'll hear about driving safety as agricultural equipment hits the road ahead of harvest. Plus, a Fitch Ratings analyst weighs in on pressures facing State Farm and other insurers.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 09/03/2025

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025. You'll hear about District 87 considering changes to its graduation requirements. Plus, a look at bird safety when fishing line litter is left near bodies of water in Central Illinois.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 09/02/2025

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025. You'll hear what the ACLU thinks of license plate reading cameras following new concerns from the secretary of state. Plus, a preview of Heartland Theatre's new production, "Venus in Fur."

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The Leadoff - Friday 08/29/2025

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Aug. 29, 2025. You'll hear from the Bloomington city manager about the decision to pull BPD out of an immigration event. Plus, McLean County election officials talk about voter rolls and mail-in voting.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 08/28/2025

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025. You'll hear from the McLean County Wheelers president about recent bicycle-vehicle collisions. Plus, an interview with a Bloomington woman who wrote a children's book.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 08/27/2025

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025. You'll hear from AFSCME members and U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen about the GOP's tax cut and spending plan. Plus, a tour of the new Bloomington Career Academy location.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 08/26/2025

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025. You'll hear the latest on a Normal man accused of sneaking his girlfriend the abortion pill without her consent. Plus, a look at how A.I. is being used in Illinois courts.

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The Leadoff - Monday 08/25/2025

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Aug. 25, 2025. You'll hear about Heartland Head Start getting a critical grant renewed. Plus, a closer look at new cell phone policies in some Bloomington-Normal schools.

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The Leadoff - Friday 08/22/2025

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Aug. 22, 2025. You'll hear about property value trends in McLean County. Plus, a preview of the Sunflower Days Festival at Rader Family Farms in Normal.

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The Leadoff - Thursday 08/21/2025

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025. You'll hear about a Promise Council welcome party for students starting school in Bloomington-Normal. Plus, an interview with the new director of ISU's Legal Studies program.

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 08/20/2025

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025. You'll hear about flyers circulating in Bloomington that have caused alarm. Plus, an interview with the new owner of the Normalite Newspaper Group.

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 08/19/2025

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025. You'll hear about a raft of new laws signed by the governor. Plus, a look at tattoo-removal programs in prison, including one in Canton, Illinois.

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The Leadoff - Monday 08/18/2025

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Aug. 18, 2025. You'll hear about the life and legacy of Bill Sulaski. Plus, a preview of an exhibition on view the rest of the year University Galleries in Uptown Normal.

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The Leadoff - Friday 08/15/2025

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Aug. 15, 2025. You'll hear about the City of Bloomington canceling a planned event about immigration issues. Plus, a look at the feasibility of mid-decade redistricting in Illinois.

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Thursday 08/14/2025

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025. You'll hear about nonprofits in Central Illinois learning how collaboration can help. Plus, a look at the start of construction on the Downtown Bloomington streetscape project.

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 08/13/2025

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Wednesday, August 13, 2025. Two political newcomers from Central Illinois are vying for seats in Congress. Plus, Illinois is set to implement the first major reforms to its public defense system in decades.

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 08/12/2025

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you know to start your day for Tuesday, August 12, 2025. The only news agency in neighboring Ford County got a lifeline with a state tax credit helping local newsrooms in Illinois. Plus, a familiar face returns to the Baby Fold, this time to serve as a principal at the Hammitt School on Willow Street.

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The Leadoff - Monday 08/11/2025

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Aug. 11, 2025. You'll hear about traffic safety measures coming to the ISU campus in Normal this fall. Plus, a preview of a new Prairie Fire Theatre production opening this week.

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Friday 08/08/2025

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Aug. 8, 2025. You'll hear the latest on the redistricting standoff that brought Texas Democrats to Illinois. Plus, how the Four Seasons Health Club is adapting to a changing marketplace.

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Thursday 08/07/2025

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. You'll hear about the impact of U.S. policy changes on Rivian's bottom line. Plus, a look at how sky-high electric bills are impacting homeowners, renters and businesses in Illinois.

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 08/06/2025

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025. You'll hear about a trail extension along Route 66. Plus, an interview with Normal Mayor Chris Koos.

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Tuesday 08/05/2025

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025. You'll hear about the Trump administration's impact on international student enrollment in Bloomington-Normal. Plus, an interview with a McLean County sheriff's candidate.

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Monday 08/04/2025

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Monday, Aug. 4, 2025. You'll hear fresh comments from OSF HealthCare leadership about the potential impacts of Medicaid cuts in the massive GOP's tax cut and spending plan. Plus, a look at a collage artist's exhibition now on view at Bloomington Public Library.

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Friday 08/01/2025

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Friday, Aug. 1, 2025. You'll hear about higher education impacts in the massive GOP tax cut and spending plan. Plus, a charity run from Bloomington-Normal to Peoria turns 40 this year.

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Thursday 07/31/2025

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Thursday, July 31, 2025. You'll hear about two projects that will have a big impact on parking in downtown Bloomington. Plus, an interview with Adam Nielsen, Normal's 2025 Citizen of the Year.

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

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The Leadoff - Wednesday 07/30/2025

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000

WGLT's The Leadoff is everything you need to know to start your day for Wednesday, July 30, 2025. You'll hear from U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood about the Epstein case and issues of transparency. Plus, Bloomington's Strong Towns chapter is hosting a screening of "Join or Die" this week at the Normal Theater.

Support the show: https://donate.nprstations.org/wglt/wglt-choose-donation

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.