Video Headlines



New Safe Passage Partnership

The holiday season is often regarded as 'the most wonderful time of the year' , but for many struggling with addiction, it can be one of the toughest. A local addiction recovery program is partnering with police departments in the area to offer support. News Watch's Matt Williamson and videographer Lauryn Samuelson report on how this new partnership is reaching more people in need. ... FULL STORY TEXT >>


Squatting Increases During Winter Months in Charleston

Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a warm place to live during the cold months. News Watch's Olivia Bennett learned from locals about how squatting goes up when the temperatures go down in Charleston. ... FULL STORY TEXT >>


Emerald Acres Grand Opening

When it comes to youth sports, its value TOPS the NFL!The youth sports industry just keeps on growing, and as proof, a new 80 million dollar sports complex is opening in Mattoon. News Watch's Matt Williamson is in Mattoon with the big reveal! ... FULL STORY TEXT >>


Changes to Loxa Road and Route 316

Last month, News Watch's Matt Williamson reported on the intersection of Loxa Road and Route 316 in Coles County, the site of multiple, serious crashes. Since that report, there have been two more wrecks at that crossroads. News Watch's Matt Williamson spoke with county and state officials about what's being done. ... FULL STORY TEXT >>


Lakeland Unveils Peace Poles

Lake Land Community College partnered with the Mattoon Rotary Club to put two Peace Poles in Podesta Park. News Watch's Olivia Bennett reports. ... FULL STORY TEXT >>


News Watch Inside Look at Illinois Attorney General's Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force

Data shows arrests in internet crimes against children are increasing, but is that because the actual amount of crimes are on the rise? Or are investigators leveling up? Reporter Olivia Bennett has an inside look at the Illinois Attorney General Internet Crimes Against Children task force. Photography: Dominic Torrepalma. Online Safe Online Smart can be found at the link: https://www.onlinesafeon ... FULL STORY TEXT >>


Mattoon Lightworks Display 2024

The City of Mattoon hosts thousands of people from all around the area for the annual Mattoon Lightworks Display, a tradition spanning more than 30 years. But for some people … the event was a bit more than just a “Walk in the Park”. News Watch's Matt Williamson reports. ... FULL STORY TEXT >>


Flightless Honor Flight

Since 2005, more than 300,000 veterans have taken a trip to Washington D.C. on an "Honor Flight". But for some, making the more than 700 mile trek just isn't possible anymore. Now, local organizations have teamed up to bring a unique experience to those who can no longer make the long trip. ... FULL STORY TEXT >>


Local Politicians Discuss Voter Turnout

Olivia Bennett and Dominic Torrepalma visit the Coles County Courthouse to get a local perspective on voter turnout. ... FULL STORY TEXT >>


Eastern Illinois University's New Housing Requirement for Incoming Students

A change in housing requirements is stirring a lot of reaction at Eastern Illinois University. News Watch's Matt Williamson and photographer Lauryn Samuelson have more on a new policy that will mean "an extended stay on campus" for incoming students. ... FULL STORY TEXT >>


Loxa Road and Route 316 Intersection

Community members tell us they've been concerned about Loxa Road and Illinois Route 316 for a while, and they say it's time to take action. News Watch's Matt Williamson and videographer Lauryn Samuelson sat down with officials to see what can be done. ... FULL STORY TEXT >>


Coles County Folklore

Take a trip through the graveyard with News Watch's Olivia Bennett to learn about the lore and legends of Coles County. ... FULL STORY TEXT >>