3 weeks ago in Religion, World

Vatican cracks down on a traditionalist group by excommunicating its bishops

The Vatican responded aggressively Thursday to a traditionalist group that consecrated bishops without the pope's consent, declaring the Society of St. Pius X had formally broken with the Catholic Church.

3 weeks ago in IL State News, Local

Pritzker: FEMA is limited in how much it can help IL

Governor says cuts have changed agency's focus.

3 weeks ago in Business, IL State News, Local

How outdoor workers have dealt with the recent high temperatures

"If you feel like you're doing too much, then get in the truck with the air on, get some water, take breaks," Patterson said.

3 weeks ago in Entertainment, Trending

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce to host their wedding Friday at Madison Square Garden, AP source says

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce will have their wedding at Madison Square Garden on Friday night, according to a law enforcement official briefed on the security plans.

3 weeks ago in Crime, Food Scene, Local

Crime of the Week: Help needed solving restaurant burglary in Springfield

June 14 break-in at Gabatoni's.

3 weeks ago in Education, Entertainment, History, IL State News, Local

July 4th celebration at the ALPLM

Joe Crain, representing the ALPLM stopped by the WTAX Morning Newswatch to discuss anything and everything that they are doing this Saturday!

3 weeks ago in Education, IL State News, Local

INTERVIEW: New Department of Early Childhood launches full operations

New Department of Early Childhood launches full operations.

3 weeks ago in IL State News, Local, National

Bailey campaign embraces artificial intelligence in new era of politics

State lawmakers consider requiring campaigns to disclose AI-generated ads.

3 weeks ago in Crime, IL State News, National

Supreme Court will consider whether laws known as assault weapons bans violate the Second Amendment

The ban in Cook County, Illinois, was first passed in 1993.

3 weeks ago in IL State News, National, Sports

Spieth returns to John Deere with an eye on Royal Birkdale practice and FedEx Cup standings

For only the second time in the 11 years since he last won the John Deere Classic, Spieth is returning to the Deere and will skip the Scottish Open the following week.

3 weeks ago in IL State News, National, Sports

NBA free agency: Norman Powell to Chicago in another All-Star move as teams continue shaping rosters

Powell spent this past season in Miami, where he became an All-Star for the first time and averaged 21.7 points in 58 games with the Heat.

3 weeks ago in IL State News, National, Sports

Blackhawks defenseman Bowen Byram agrees to a $75 million, 6-year extension

The 25-year-old Byram was acquired in a trade with Buffalo on June 23.

3 weeks ago in Agriculture, Education, Farm, Food Scene, Health & Wellness, IL State News, Lifestyle, Local

Bloom where you’re planted; Celebrating a bumper crop of community gardens in Illinois

"It reminds us where our food comes from, encourages healthy lifestyles, and creates opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together."

3 weeks ago in National, Trending

Americans step out for their nation’s 250th in a proud moment sown with division and doubt

One of the stars of the American firmament once advised citizens of all stripes how to express their love of country. Mark Twain's long-ago words capture how Americans are stepping out this week to wish their nation a happy milestone birthday.

3 weeks ago in Entertainment

Los Angeles medical examiner says former child actor Daveigh Chase died of AIDS

Former child actor Daveigh Chase's death on June 16 was due to AIDS, the office of the County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner reported. The cause of death for Chase, 35, was acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, according to online medical examiner records from this week that listed her last name as Schwallier.

3 weeks ago in Education, IL State News, Local, National

IL Department of Early Childhood officially launches Wednesday

State officials have worked with teachers, parents, providers and stakeholders to design the best framework for the agency.

3 weeks ago in Crime, Local

Springfield City Council may extend contract for license plate readers

"It's a very impactful tool," said Behl. "One of the most impactful tools that we have."

3 weeks ago in Health & Wellness, IL State News, Lifestyle, Local, Pet of the Week

Local Veterinarian urges pet owners to take precautions during holiday heat wave

Pet owners may underestimate how quickly animals can overheat, particularly during periods of high heat and humidity, Peterson said.

3 weeks ago in Agriculture, Entertainment, Food Scene, IL State News, Lifestyle, Local, Route 66 100th Anniversary Guide

‘Miles of Smiles’ this year’s Illinois State Fair theme

"Miles of Smiles" celebrates the 100th anniversary of Route 66.

3 weeks ago in IL State News, Local

Governor Pritzker declares 11 Illinois counties disaster areas

The disaster proclamation takes effect immediately.