Illinois has been consistently in the bottom 10 for all 18 editions of the report. Illinois now suffers the nation’s third-lowest job growth. Utah claimed the top spot in ecnonomic outlook with 18 consecutive years. Louisiana made the biggest move from 31st to 18th overall
A local foundation dedicated to fire safety is set to expand its mission thanks to a major state grant. The Christian Sheehan Smoke Alarm Foundation, named after a Champaign man who tragically died in a 2016 house fire, has been awarded up to $50,000 to continue providing free smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to the community.
The Mayoral Recognition Program is open to any UHS student who completes at least 30 hours of volunteer service during the academic year. Eligible students will receive a Certificate of Service from Mayor Marlin, Superintendent Dr. Ivory-Tatum, and UHS Principal Jesse Guzman.
“Whether they are facilitating club meetings, judging visual arts at the 4-H show, or assisting with beef weigh-in, our volunteers serve as a positive adult role model for our youth throughout their 4-H journey and beyond,” says Jones.
The mission of the Poet Laureate program is to celebrate poetry, creative writing, and the arts and enrich Urbana’s diverse community through outreach activities. Each year, the selected Urbana Poet Laureate is tasked with creating a unique artistic legacy that elevates the importance of creative writing as an art form.
The UPD stated that DORS reflects their commitment to transparency, accessibility, and service. They hope to modernize, connect with the community, and use resources more effectively. DORS helps reduce call volumes, improves report accuracy, and allows officers to focus on emergency response.
Community excitement is building as the 2025 Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend approaches, set to take place April 24–26. Thousands of runners, spectators, and volunteers will descend on Champaign, Urbana, and Savoy for one of the region’s most anticipated spring events.
The Voices of Freedom Speakers Showcase is back for its second year on Saturday, April 26, at the Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center. Hosted by Remind to Shine Motivational Media, the event highlights powerful, real-life stories from formerly incarcerated individuals who now serve as mentors, leaders, and advocates for change.
As prom season approaches, local teens and community members have something special to look forward to: the return of the C-U Prom Giveaway, a completely free event offering prom attire and accessories for all.
A unique and beloved tradition continues this month in downtown Champaign as the fourth annual #cuPromGiveaway kicks off, offering students the chance to pick out prom dresses, suits, shoes, accessories, and more — entirely free of charge.