Crime
6 months ago
Two convicted felons arrested in Urbana on firearm charges

Two men have been arrested in separate incidents this month after Urbana police say both were found in possession of firearms despite being convicted felons.

Entertainment
6 months ago
Miss Champaign County Fair reflects on pageant experience, confidence, and next steps

This year’s Miss Champaign County Fair, Sophia Hartkey, is celebrating more than a crown—she’s celebrating growth, confidence, and a deeper connection to her community. Hartkey, an 18-year-old from Mahomet, was named Miss Champaign County Fair 2025 after standing out among contestants through her interviews, stage presence, and personal character. A recent high school graduate, she plans to attend college in the fall and has been active in 4-H, FFA, and local community service projects.

Community
6 months ago
Champaign-Urbana officials warn of dangerous heat wave: Emergency shelters and cooling centers open

With heat index values forecasted to soar between 105 and 112 degrees throughout the week, the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) is warning residents of the serious health risks posed by extreme heat. The highest temperatures are expected Wednesday and Thursday, with little overnight relief as lows only drop to the mid-70s.

Community
6 months ago
Urbana Tango week heats up with music, dance, and celebration: Community Focus With Callie Luttman

The rhythms of Argentina are sweeping through Champaign-Urbana this week as CU Tango Music, a local nonprofit, hosts its annual Urbana Tango Week, a six-day celebration of tango performance, education, and community connection.

Community
6 months ago
To Hot for Spot: Pet owners urged to stay vigilant as temperatures rise

Every year, hundreds of pets die from heatstroke after being left behind in parked cars—often unintentionally. As summer temperatures soar, local experts are urging pet owners to double-check before walking away from their vehicles and to recognize the warning signs of heat exhaustion in animals.

Entertainment
6 months ago
Make the most of a local date night

Date nights are opportunities for couples to strengthen their relationships and have a little fun along the way. A date night also presents an opportunity for couples to experience all their town has to offer, including its restaurant and entertainment scene. A night engaging with the local scene can remind couples why their towns are such special places, and the following are some tips to ensure date night is a hit.

Community
6 months ago
Do adults need a measles booster?

Immunizations are designed to keep people healthy. Many diseases have been pushed into relative obscurity thanks to the widespread use of vaccines. Smallpox and rinderpest were eradicated worldwide due to vaccination. Polio, tetanus, Hib, and rubella are some additional diseases that most people have forgotten thanks to the vaccinations they received in childhood. But one disease that had been largely controlled has experienced a resurgence, leaving many wondering if their immunizations are still potent enough to provide protection.

Entertainment
6 months ago
Device-free activities families can enjoy at home

Family time is an umbrella term that can encompass a range of activities, but it generally involves parents and children spending quality time together away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Finding distraction-free family time has always been challenging, but it might be even more so in the modern world, where a device with internet access is seemingly always within reach.

Lifestyle
6 months ago
How to establish a peaceful backyard retreat

Backyards have undergone quite a transformation over the last decade-plus. The days when patios and decks were all a backyard living space had to offer are largely a thing of the past, as homeowners have realized just how valuable it can be to commit to a stunning backyard.

Agriculture
6 months ago
NAFB names Janet Adkison and Gale Cunningham as 2025 Hall of Fame inductees

The National Association of Farm Broadcasting (NAFB) has announced Janet Adkison and Gale Cunningham as the 2025 inductees into its prestigious Hall of Fame. The two veteran agricultural communicators will be honored during the Night of Honors banquet on November 20, as part of the 82nd annual NAFB Convention in Kansas City.