The coronavirus story is developing quickly in Illinois. Here are updates from WGLT's newsroom and our partners at Illinois Public Radio, NPR, and The Associated Press.
You can also see (or add to) our list of cancellations, closures, and rescheduled events. Find all of our coverage at WGLT.org/Coronavirus.
11th CIRCUIT COURT EXTENDS RESTRICTED OPERATIONS
8:30 p.m. Monday, April 27
Courthouses in the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, including McLean County's Law & Justice Center, will continue operating on a limited capacity through May 31.
Criminal and civil bench trials are delayed until after May 31, as are most traffic cases.
In addition to emergency and essential matters, judges are hearing some cases by remote means, including by telephone and videoconferencing where appropriate.
"The goal is to keep cases moving forward during the pandemic as best we can in addition to handling emergency and essential matters," said Circuit Chief Judge Mark Fellheimer. "Remote hearings are typically conducted in two scenarios. The first is for emergency hearings and for individuals who are in custody. The second is when all sides to a case agree to participate remotely and the type of case is conducive to being heard remotely.”
The public is reminded to check to see if their case is still scheduled before coming to the courthouse for a proceeding. Those inside the courthouse must wear a face-covering.
Information related to all other civil and criminal proceedings is available on the website.
— Jolie Sherman and Ryan Denham | WGLT
COUNTRY FINANCIAL DONATES $3 MILLION TO FIRST RESPONDERS
4:15 p.m. Monday, April 27
Country Financial is donating $3 million through its Operation Helping Heroes Program to support active duty service members, veterans, and their families.
Earlier this year, Conutry Financial was planning on giving $1 million to the program, but in light of the pandemic, the company tripled its investment.
“Health care workers and first responders are on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, risking their lives every day to take care of those in our communities," said executive vice president Tim Harris. "We believe it’s our responsibility to take care of them.”
The $3 million donation will go to the company’s more than 2,000 representatives and agents who will each be able to provide funds to support their local first responders.
- Jolie Sherman | WGLT
BLOOMINGTON'S IRON SKILLET FEEDS STRUGGLING RESIDENTS
3 p.m. Monday, April 27
A 30-year-old Bloomington restaurant is helping those in need.
Starting May 1 for those in need, Keller's Iron Skillet will provide breakfast and lunch choices for curbside pickup during regular business hours, from 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. This effort was made possible through Democrats in Action.
“Many are unemployed, many have small children and there are first-line personnel like health care workers, police or firefighters who are working intensive schedules and don’t have time to prepare a meal," said restaurant owner Tim Keller. "They are all welcome.”
This effort will continue as long as there are funds to support it. Keller's will post on its Facebook page so that the community knows the fund's status or can add donations. Donations can also be made to Keller’s Iron Skillet and sent to 609 Hannah St., Bloomington, IL 61701, or dropped off in person.
Anyone in need should call Keller’s at (309) 828-3533.
- Jolie Sherman | WGLT
HOME SWEET HOME ACCEPTING DONATIONS FOR CHALLENGE
2:45 p.m. Monday, April 27
After a collaborative $60,000 donation, Home Sweet Home Ministries (HSHM) is encouraging community members to give back during its May Community Challenge.
Donations will help HSHM provide services to individuals and families experiencing poverty, homelessness, and food insecurity.
“At Home Sweet Home Ministries, we join with our local community in efforts to alleviate the heartache and hardships that COVID-19 has inflicted on all of us,” said Chief Executive Officer Mary Ann Pullin.
To make a donation, visit Home Sweet Home's website.
- Jolie Sherman | WGLT
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