WCBU FM 89.9 News

The station provides a news-focused radio service, operating as part of the NPR Network and a joint service of Bradley University and Illinois State University. Its primary content revolves around delivering local, state, and national news alongside arts, music, and cultural programming. The broadcaster emphasizes public service and aims to inform and engage the listening audience with a variety of topics, including local government decisions, community events, and broader societal issues. Content also includes features on topics such as agriculture, environmental concerns, and historical commemorations. The station’s commitment to public service is reflected in its diverse programming and its role as a community resource. The station’s programming includes a mix of live news updates and pre-produced segments. Steve Stein hosts local news segments, reporting on topics such as the potential end of a data center project in Pekin and covering events like the Mardi Gras fundraiser. Ben Howell also contributes to local news coverage, reporting on incidents such as a tragic accident involving a teen and providing updates on severe weather forecasts. National news is provided through NPR News, featuring stories ranging from sports highlights, like Adebayo’s record-breaking performance, to political developments and human-interest stories, such as the journey of Paralympian Steve Emt. Harvest Public Media contributes segments on topics like urban farming programs and innovative approaches to water management, like “sponge cities.” The station’s history is intertwined with the institutions it serves, Bradley University and Illinois State University. While the exact founding date is not explicitly stated, the broadcaster is presented as a long-standing public service. The Peoria Public Library is celebrating 100 years of Black History Month, demonstrating a commitment to recognizing and celebrating cultural heritage. The station also highlights local events and collaborations, such as the Peoria Tribe’s exhibit commemorating American history and the Brimfield Public Library’s Local Author Fair. The broadcaster’s involvement with the NPR Network signifies a commitment to journalistic standards and a broad reach within the public radio landscape. The station streams live audio online, with separate streams available for the main NEWS channel and a classical music channel (WCBU HD2). It offers a platform for community engagement, sharing local news and events, and providing a space for diverse voices and perspectives. The website provides access to headlines and a full weather forecast. The station also provides information on topics such as biotechnology investments and fluctuations in gas prices, demonstrating its commitment to covering economic and societal trends impacting the region and beyond.