Video Headlines
First Responders Perform Ice Rescue Training
Firefighters from around the area are spending time in the classroom and out on an icy pond. It's not everyday someone falls through the ice, but when they do, firefighters say time is of the essence. News Watch's Matt Williamson and videography assistant Alex Sitman report. ... FULL STORY TEXT >>
Local School Attendance Push
When it's cold outside, it can be hard to get motivated to do just about anything, especially WORK or SCHOOL. But educators will tell you making it to class ON TIME is important, not just for college students, but high school and elementary kids too. News Watch's Matt Williamson and videographer Alex Sitman sat down with the Regional Schools Superintendent to talk about a renewed push for attendan ... FULL STORY TEXT >>
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 >>