Community
4 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
4 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
4 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
4 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.

Community
4 months ago
Fireworks are everywhere: Champaign-Urbana and beyond set for a weeklong Independence Day spectacle

Champaign-Urbana and the surrounding community is going big this July, with fireworks lighting up the skies nearly every night leading up to — and even after — Independence Day 2025. With the Fourth falling on a Friday this year, families across Central Illinois have the unique chance to celebrate all week long with fireworks. 

Illinois women's basketball coach Shauna Green talks about Oregon State.
News
4 months ago
Illinois women’s basketball season tickets on sale for 2025–26 as program momentum builds under Shauna Green

The excitement continues to build around Illinois women’s basketball, as season tickets for the 2025–26 campaign are now on sale. Under fourth-year head coach Shauna Green, the Fighting Illini are riding a wave of a historic postseason run, record-setting wins, and national recognition.

Elections
4 months ago
Pritzker picks administration insider as third term running mate

Five days after announcing his re-election bid, Governor JB Pritzker has chosen Christian Mitchell to be his running mate.

Community
4 months ago
Champaign County Freedom Celebration adjusts parade time, cancels Youth Run and 5k Run/Walk

The Champaign County Freedom Celebration returns this July 4th with the theme “America Celebrates Pride of the Heartland,” honoring the resilience, heritage, and unity of Midwestern communities. Despite some unexpected schedule changes, organizers are determined to deliver a heartfelt celebration of American independence.

Community
4 months ago
Illinois Arts Council launches FY26 Creative Projects Grant to support artists

The Illinois Arts Council (IAC) has officially released guidelines and opened applications for the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Creative Projects Grant (CPG), an initiative aimed at supporting the state’s thriving creative sector. The grant offers up to $12,000 in funding for art projects led by Illinois artists, not-for-profit organizations, municipal entities, and institutions of higher education.

Ask The Pros
4 months ago
Rising star in real estate: Heather Baker joins the Siefert Team and hits the ground running

The Siefert Team of Keller Williams TREC has welcomed a dynamic new addition this year, and she’s already getting noticed. Heather Baker, a Central Illinois native and proud alumna of Salt Fork Schools, has joined the team with a strong start, surpassing her first-year goal by selling over 12 homes.

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