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Voters will determine the future of Strides — Champaign County’s only low-barrier shelter
Champaign County’s only low-barrier shelter, Strides, is at risk of closing at the end of the year. Voters in this year’s election on April 1 will weigh in on a property tax increase that would allow Strides to continue to provide shelter and social services.
CUDO Plays sparks creativity with unique board games in annual design competition
The Champaign Urbana Design Organization (CUDO) cultivates a wealth of creativity in its annual board competition, CUDO Plays, from tabletop games about corgis having parties to color-coded Jenga to Globetrotting, a recently published game where you plan three vacations around the world.
Champaign County has been affected by bird flu, even without any farm outbreaks
The disease has infected several wild animals in the county, some of which have been brought to the University of Illinois Wildlife Medical Clinic. Public health officials advise against handling wild birds showing signs of illness.
‘Mission Accomplished’ for Rantoul air force base, yet $76 million of environmental clean-up remains
Most of the Chanute Air Force base transferred to the village of Rantoul in 2023. At the time, the Air Force declared “Mission Accomplished” in a press release — but it acknowledged there’s still at least $76 million more toxic clean-up to do. Today, it is unclear what the plan is for the many abandoned and deteriorating buildings.
Lunar eclipse draws late-night crowds to University of Illinois Observatory
Around 100 people turned up to enjoy a clear view of the lunar eclipse, which reached totality minutes before 2 a.m., as the moon passed through Earth’s shadow. During totality, the moon appears reddish in color, giving it the nickname “blood moon.”
U of I students call for better housing and meal options over breaks
The International Student Advisory Board wants the U of I to give students the option to stay in University Housing for no additional cost during breaks and provide meals at dining halls or nearby locations. The group has a change.org petition circulating.
Community embraces Urbana’s new Health and Wellness Center as a welcoming space for fitness
The Urbana Health and Wellness Center has become a community hub, drawing in people of all ages to enjoy its recreational spaces, fitness classes and social atmosphere.
‘Danville’s Got Talent’ shines a spotlight on the city’s vibrant performing arts community
The city of Danville hosted its annual “Danville’s Got Talent” show at the Fischer Theater Friday night, showcasing a variety of talents and genres. Fifteen local performers competed in youth and adult divisions for cash prizes.
Rallying for research: C-U community members express concern over recent federal orders
Hundreds of people gathered at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Friday to rally against President Donald Trump’s attempts to freeze federal funding. They held picket signs and chanted, “Stand up, fight back,” and “Elon Musk has got to go.”
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