Good morning, Champaign.

Hotel Royer celebrated its soft opening today in downtown Urbana after years of reconstruction that preserved its historic design from 1923 and an extension from 1980.

The renovated hotel now offers 131 rooms, banquet halls, a restaurant, a bar, a pool and a fitness center (according to Mayor Diane Marlin and Corporate Director Joseph Prior).

Local family-owned farms face challenges from tariffs on foreign imports that force them to cut costs and delay investments—Treasurer Michael Frerichs warned that without clear pricing, farming and related manufacturing may lose sales and put local jobs at risk.

In her podcast posted April 16th, Mayor Feinen talked with Planning and Development Director Bruce Knight and Public Works Director Terry Lusby, Jr.—she explained that IDOT plans a road diet, bike lanes, and ADA accessibility improvements on Prospect Avenue—.

Champaign-Urbana Public Health District said a squirrel in Urbana tested positive for tularemia (also called Rabbit Fever), a rare disease that can infect rodents, rabbits, pets, and people.

Several cases of illness and death among squirrels were reported, and pet owners should watch for signs of sickness in their animals.

Country Music Trivia Night

7-9 p.m. — The Venue CU — Free entry — Test your Country Music knowledge with friends at a fun trivia competition.

Jesus in the Midst of the Golden Lampstand

11 PM – 2 AM — 1304 Anthony Dr, Champaign, IL — Free entry — Experience a dynamic exploration of Jesus in the Old Testament through engaging contemporary media.

6th Annual Easter Brunch Buffet

11 AM – 4 PM — Neil St. Blues — $40 per person — Celebrate Easter Sunday with a delicious all-you-can-eat brunch featuring Southern flavors and great vibes.

April Game Night: Theme TBA

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana — Free entry — Unwind with fellow gamers while enjoying a casual game night atmosphere.

Two Tournament Tuesday – Galaga & Darts

7-11 p.m. — Pour Bros. Craft Taproom — Register for tournament play and enjoy drink specials while competing in Galaga and Darts.

2025 Roger Ebert’s Film Festival

6 PM – 11 PM — Virginia Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the legacy of Roger Ebert with films and discussions at this historic venue.

SAFe® 5.1 POPM Certification Training

9 AM - 1 AM — City of Champaign — Early Bird: $1199 | Regular: $1899 — Gain your SAFe® PO/PM certification through interactive sessions and real-world applications.

Project Management Techniques Certification

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. — HQ — Course completion certificate — Gain essential project management skills through an interactive workshop led by experienced trainers.

Hatsuyuki Hamada Seminar

9 a.m. to 11 p.m. — Kokushi Midwest Judo — Registration required — Renowned sensei Hatsuyuki Hamada shares his expertise in a two-day judo seminar.

Candlelight Yoga

6-7 p.m. — Fire Doll Studio — Suggested donation $11-$33 — Unwind and rejuvenate with a soothing yoga class for all levels in a tranquil setting.