Peoria Journal Star

1 day ago | pjstar.com | Hannah Hudnall |Saleen Martin

The USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert on June 3 about a ground beef product that tested positive for E. coli. The product was distributed to Whole Foods Markets and other distributor locations in Illinois, among other states. A public health alert was issued instead of a recall because the products are no longer available for purchase. Here's what we know. Which products are affected?

1 day ago | pjstar.com | Hannah Hudnall

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency declared an Air Pollution Action Day today in the Chicago Metropolitan area due to elevated particle pollution caused by Canadian wildfire smoke. Here's what you should know about best practices and who's likely to be most affected. What is an Action Day? Action Days are typically called when the air quality index, also known as the AQI, gets into unhealthy ranges, according to the U.S. AQI website.

2 days ago | pjstar.com | Hannah Hudnall

Residents in northern Illinois will likely experience poor air quality today as rain brings Canadian wildfire smoke south behind a cold front, according to the National Weather Service. Information gathered by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency shows that the AQI in the Chicagoland area is expected to degrade throughout the day. Here's what to know.

2 days ago | pjstar.com | Hannah Hudnall |Saleen Martin

Wisconsin-based fast food chain Culver's announced plans to open new locations across 12 states, including Illinois, according to a company spokesperson. The chain, known for its burgers, cheese curds and custard ice cream, has established a recent pattern of opening 50 to 60 new restaurants per year. If this recent announcement is anything to go by, this year is bound to be similar. Here's where the chain is setting up its new spots. Where did new Culver's already open in Illinois?

2 days ago | pjstar.com | Mike Kramer

A new bust of a young, clean-shaven Abraham Lincoln was unveiled at the East Peoria City Council meeting. Local artist Morgan Elser created the bust, depicting Lincoln before he grew his iconic beard. The artwork aims to represent Lincoln's time as a circuit lawyer in central Illinois. The East Peoria City Council meeting on Tuesday unveiled a new bust of Abraham Lincoln that will grace East Peoria City Hall. “We so graciously accept this,” said East Peoria Mayor John Kahl.