Tag: Douglass Park

Central Illinois prepares to honor Juneteenth days before the official observance

Juneteenth commemorates the ending of slavery in the US on June 19, 1865.

After violence at a pop-up party on Sunday left 9 injured, Champaign considers how to prevent future violence

CHAMPAIGN — Neighbors and social workers gathered at the Douglass Annex Thursday to discuss violence at parties that pop up after bars close. Some wanted curfews and security cameras. Middle school teacher Rhonda Harris suggested the city host its own safe version with police and chaperones. “We can have a controlled area, like a parking

Champaign to host annual Juneteenth festival at Douglass Park on Saturday

CHAMPAIGN — On Saturday, Chambanites can celebrate the end of slavery at Douglass Park with a bouncy house, photo booth, small business fair and more. Champaign Park District coordinator Robert White helped organize the Juneteenth event. He remembers the first time he learned about Juneteenth from his fraternity brother in college. “It was shocking because

First String Little League offers mentorship, technology lessons through baseball

CHAMPAIGN – Instead of practicing their swings, the baseball players were designing a remote-control car. The First String Little League coaches had decided to give the players a break that rainy afternoon. A handful still showed up to the Don Moyer Boys and Girls Club in Champaign to build a small, Jackie Robinson-themed car. “They’re