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Join the NPR Illinois team!

Community Voices is seeking a co-host/editor to join Jeff Williams and Randy Eccles in getting to know our neighbors and more. Apply by May 25, 5 p.m.

The news department is seeking part-time fill-in anchor/reporters who are available either weekdays from 5:30 to 9 a.m. and/or 3:30 to 6 p.m. Apply by June 5, 5 p.m.

Sam Naftzger

UIS Public Affairs Reporting Program Intern

2026 UIS Public Affairs Reporting Program intern at WBEZ.

Government & Politics

AI, water, and climate: Illinois’ policy fights explained - UIS PAR class of 2026

Abisola Dahunsi, Nikoel Hytrek, Sam Naftzger

From AI data centers to drinking water and carbon storage, Illinois faces big environmental decisions this spring - UIS PAR class of 2026.
Lincoln & History

Foundation's role a mystery as Lincoln artifacts are poised to be auctioned off

Sam Naftzger

Hair from Lincoln’s killer and other historic relics linked to the 16th president are up for sale, including pieces that appear identical to artifacts once purchased for display in the state-run Lincoln presidential museum in Springfield.
Lincoln IL

Lawmaker pushes for public access to Lincoln Developmental Center cemetery

Sam Naftzger

The large gravesite contains the remains of approximately 2,130 LDC residents who passed while in state custody over the institution’s 125-year history.
Virden IL

The Battle of Virden, a bloody chapter in Illinois labor history

Sam Naftzger

The battle amid a coal strike in Macoupin County is regarded as a pivotal moment in national labor history and the Illinois coal wars.