Deron Molen

Nov 1, 2024 | wandtv.com | Deron Molen

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — If the neon orange jack-o-lantern suit doesn't say it, Gordon Levine will tell anyone who will listen. "I like to dress up and be a part of my displays," he said. "It's fun. Halloween is the best time of the year — other than Christmas."His massive display draws onlookers from around Springfield. The only thing is: it's not in his yard — it's in Dinah Maria's. She loves Halloween almost as much as Gordon does.

Oct 16, 2024 | wandtv.com | Deron Molen

LINCOLN, Ill. (WAND) — The sights and sounds of summer have faded into a fall glow in Lincoln. The softball fields are quiet — but the sounds of a late July tournament continue to echo off the nearby corn fields. The organizers, AFSCME Council 31, threw the tournament together to draw attention to the pending closure of Logan Correctional Center.

May 14, 2024 | wandtv.com | Deron Molen

MACON COUNTY, Ill. (WAND) — David Brown's central Illinois roots run deep. "It's all I've ever know," he said. "We've tilled some of the same soil since 1867."But his crops are still waiting to take root as he waits for better weather. "We need a good hard week to get things done in ideal conditions," Brown said.

Apr 25, 2024 | wandtv.com | Deron Molen

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — April may be Sexual Assault Awareness Month, but advocates know the work doesn't truly end when the calendar flips to May. Education is one of the focal points for Growing Strong Sexual Assault Center in Decatur. The group believes conversations about consent and boundaries need to start at an early age. Parents can then tailor those talks to their children's age and maturity.

Apr 17, 2024 | wandtv.com | Deron Molen

CHARLESTON, Ill. (WAND) — Out on the football field at Eastern Illinois University, Ben Butler gets his kicks in. "I'm kind of enjoying it right now," he said. "I've been practicing kicking field goals and throwing footballs to the football players."The sophomore from Sullivan High School is taking the field as part of the Beautiful Lives Project, a program that brings sports and fine arts experiences to people with a variety of disabilities.