Carle Foundation Hospital is introducing a new Guest Assistance service aimed at improving access and comfort for patients and visitors. Beginning July 21, the hospital will offer free, ADA-accessible wheelchair transport from two main parking garages to the hospital entrance and back.
When most growers plant corn, they expect neat rows and full, golden ears. But at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, a team of USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists does the opposite — they plant the misfits. Twisted, speckled, and tassel-covered corn varieties thrive at the Maize Genetics Cooperation Stock Center, where more than 100,000 genetically unique corn lines are grown and preserved. Each carries mutations that offer clues to some of the most valuable traits in modern corn — from disease resistance to enhanced sweetness.
The Illinois Lottery is joining lotteries across North America in celebrating Lottery Week, running from July 14–18, 2025. This annual celebration highlights the far-reaching benefits of lottery proceeds in local communities—from funding public education to supporting charitable causes and stimulating economic growth.
Champaign County is grappling with a historic spike in traffic fatalities, and local planners are turning to the public for help. With 13 lives lost in traffic crashes during the first half of 2025 — the worst six-month period in over 20 years — the Champaign County Regional Planning Commission (RPC) is asking residents to share their concerns and ideas for making area roads safer.
Champaign County workers represented by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 900 voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new union contract agreement that was reached late Tuesday, just ahead of their Wednesday morning strike deadline.
Old drain cleaners under the sink? Mysterious chemicals in your garage? You’re not alone—and now there’s a safe way to get rid of them.
Many drivers opt for the cheapest insurance policy available, often purchasing state minimum coverage online without fully understanding the risks involved. Rachel Smithenry, an insurance agent with over 20 years of experience at InsureChampaign-Hilb Group, cautions consumers about the potential dangers of skimping on coverage.
Contaminated washing and packing areas are among the leading causes of foodborne illness in fresh produce, according to the University of Illinois Extension. In an effort to reduce this risk and help community members protect themselves and others from getting sick, U of I Extension will host a free educational webinar.
Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze brought energy and inspiration to St. Thomas More High School on Saturday, where he hosted a youth football camp in partnership with Flex Work Sports. The camp welcomed more than 400 young athletes eager to learn, play, and meet an NFL player in person.
The City of Champaign has unveiled a new website to keep residents informed about events and programs happening at the newly opened Downtown Plaza. This move is part of the city’s broader effort to activate the space with regular entertainment and family-friendly activities throughout the summer.
