Community
8 months ago
Champaign Public Works launches Brightly Citizen Portal for infrastructure requests

As of July 1, the City of Champaign Public Works Department is officially switching to the Brightly Citizen Portal, a streamlined platform for residents to request or report infrastructure-related services. The new system replaces SeeClickFix, which will only be monitored through July 8.

News
8 months ago
Governor Pritzker signs landmark bills targeting prescription drug pricing and expanding health coverage

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed two major health care bills Tuesday aimed at lowering prescription drug costs and expanding access to insurance coverage for mental health and travel-related medical expenses.

Ask The Pros
8 months ago
Mini splits, maximum comfort: Michael Savage of Lanz Heating & Cooling explains the benefits of ductless systems

With energy costs rising and home comfort top of mind, more homeowners are turning to ductless mini split systems. Michael Savage, a comfort consultant at Lanz Heating & Cooling, says the popularity is no surprise. 

Community
8 months ago
Champaign County workers file five-day strike notice amid contract dispute

A strike by Champaign County employees is now imminent after members of AFSCME Local 900 filed a formal five-day strike notice on Monday, June 30, moving one step closer to a walkout that could shut down critical public services.

Community
8 months ago
Immigration solidarity group to hold annual meeting July 10 in Champaign

With immigration issues remaining a national flashpoint, the Immigration Services of Champaign-Urbana (ISCU) is inviting the public to its Annual Meeting on Wednesday, July 10 to reaffirm community solidarity and support for immigrant neighbors.

Education
8 months ago
Urbana native Megan Kirby named principal of Thomas Paine Elementary

The Urbana Board of Education has officially appointed Megan Kirby as the next Principal of Thomas Paine Elementary School, with her new role beginning on July 23.

Community
8 months ago
Illinois expands childhood lead testing to 180 new zip codes, several in Champaign County

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has announced a major step toward universal childhood lead testing, adding 180 new ZIP codes—across 47 counties—to its list of high-risk areas where children are required to be tested for lead exposure.

Entertainment
8 months ago
AVERAGE JOE: It’s a tough call. Thoughts on officiating in sports and how some of us need a “time out”

As with any major sporting event, the post NBA Finals online banter brought out some conspiracy theorists. The 2025 NBA Finals sparked major controversy over officiating, with fans and analysts criticizing inconsistent foul calls and perceived bias in crucial moments. Despite the use of replay review and challenge systems, it has been argued that the current tools are either underused or applied inconsistently. Players, coaches, and, of course, fans have voiced frustration, calling for greater transparency and accountability.

Crime
8 months ago
Illinois State Police release results from Nighttime Enforcement Patrols in Champaign County

The Illinois State Police (ISP) have released results from Nighttime Enforcement (NITE) patrols conducted in Champaign County throughout June, focusing on cracking down on impaired driving and occupant restraint violations during late-night hours.

Crime
8 months ago
Illinois State Police report 35 seat belt violations in June Safety Crackdown in Macon County

The Illinois State Police (ISP) announced the results of their Occupant Restraint Enforcement Patrols (OREP) conducted in Macon County during June, with a strong focus on promoting seat belt use and saving lives.