News
9 months ago
Champaign to host Community Development Week kickoff celebration April 21

The City of Champaign will launch Community Development Week with a Kickoff Celebration on Monday, April 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will take place in the parking lot of the Neighborhood Services Department, located at 205 W Park Ave.

News
9 months ago
AVERAGE JOE: Wait a minute! Why am I just now learning about the NBA Play-In Tournament and why is it awesome?!!

As an “Average Joe” sports fan, I will not be performing a deep dive research effort into past NBA Play-In Tournament participants and results, but I’ll guess that the Bulls and Pacers have not been a part of prior play-in tournaments.

News
9 months ago
Brush fire spread to abandoned house in Rantoul, no injuries reported

An abandoned home on County Road 1900 E was destroyed in a fire Friday night after a brush fire got out of control, according to the Rantoul Fire Department.

IL State News
9 months ago
Illinois hits record-high employment in March as payrolls climb by 14,800 jobs

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced Thursday that nonfarm payrolls in the state reached a new record high in March, with 6,172,300 jobs — an increase of 14,800 (+0.2%) from the previous month. This surpasses the state’s prior record set in December 2024.

IL State News
9 months ago
Illinois wheat producers approve check-off program to boost industry growth

Illinois wheat producers have voted overwhelmingly in favor of a voluntary wheat check-off program aimed at boosting research, market development, and production. The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) announced Thursday that the referendum passed by a margin of 207 to 69.

Community
9 months ago
Illinois Marathon just days away — 100 volunteers still needed

The Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend, Champaign-Urbana’s biggest annual event, is fast approaching—set for April 24 through 26. But with just days to go, organizers say they still need about 100 volunteers to help make the weekend a success.

Elections
9 months ago
Election results in Champaign County considered “final”

In one of Central Illinois’ closest mayoral races, Sam Hall unseated three-term incumbent Chuck Smith by just 34 votes — 684 to 650 — becoming Rantoul’s first African American mayor. Hall now joins Terrence Stuber in Tolono and DeShawn Williams in Urbana as part of a historic wave of new leadership breaking barriers across the region.

Community
9 months ago
PET OF THE WEEK: Meet Tony, the beautiful tabby who wants to sit in the sun

Tony is a handsome and curious young tabby who is getting used to the good life indoors. He loves playing with his siblings, chasing after toys, and finding the perfect sunny spot for a nap. While he’s still learning to fully trust people, he’s already showing his sweet and affectionate side. With a little patience and plenty of playtime, Tony will make a wonderful companion who will bring joy to his forever home.

Crime
9 months ago
Champaign County deputy charged with felony theft in nonprofit misuse case

Illinois State Police have charged a Champaign County Sheriff’s deputy with felony theft following an investigation into financial misconduct involving a police support nonprofit.

News
9 months ago
Improperly discarded smoking materials spark fire at Urbana apartment complex

A fire broke out late Thursday afternoon at Pointe Apartments on East Florida Avenue, prompting a swift and extensive emergency response but resulting in no injuries or displacements.