Good morning, Champaign.

University of Illinois police reported 10 attempted car thefts dating back to April 16 — four reports came from UIUC students at 302 E.

John St. between April 16 and May 1 and six occurred on May 2 on South Orchard Street and Hazelwood Court in Urbana with vehicles showing damaged back windows and tampered steering systems, mostly affecting Kia and Hyundai models; anyone with information is urged to contact police.

After the Soybean Innovation Lab was set to close on April 15 because US aid funding was cut, an anonymous donation of over $1 million from the UK has kept it open for another year—its director Peter Goldsmith said the gift will help the lab build markets for US soybeans in Africa.

Champaign Central High School held a student art show on Thursday night with 610 pieces from K-12 students in styles like photography and painting; the show will run until May 12 with a weekend viewing on May 10.

Art teacher Shane Rodems said the event — which recognized 17 seniors — celebrates local talent.

In the latest episode of The Mayor Feinen Podcast, Mayor Feinen speaks with Bloomberg Harvard City Hall Fellow Evan Teplensky, who is working with the City of Champaign to boost community outreach and guide data-based decisions—especially regarding the Downtown Plan.

The episode is available to watch and listen now.

On May 1, City Manager Joan Walls and Equity and Engagement Director Rachel Joy attended the 11th Annual Power of the Purse fundraiser at Pear Tree Estates — the event raised over $100,000 to support programs that offer safe shelter, scholarships, and literacy help in the community.

Star Wars Trivia at Pour Bros

2-4 p.m. — Pour Bros. Craft Taproom — Free to play — Test your knowledge of the galaxy far, far away with exciting trivia and great prizes.

Cinco De Mayo Celebration

11 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. — Esquire Lounge — Order a Modelo pint and keep the souvenir glass while enjoying food and drink specials.

Touch-A-Truck Day

9 AM – 1 PM — Centennial Park — Free entry — Experience the thrill of climbing and honking real trucks and vehicles.

2025 Springtime Showdown #2

5 PM - 5 PM — Rantoul Family Sports Complex — $30 Adult Weekend Pass — Compete for a chance to enter the USSSA Great Lakes National Championships with exciting fastpitch action.

Illinois PTA SPOTLIGHT 2025

11 AM – 5 PM — Centennial High School — Registration required — Celebrate young artists' achievements with engaging workshops and an inspiring showcase of creativity.

The Space CU x Morning Jay’s Brunch Pop Up

10 AM – 3 PM — The Space — RSVP required — Experience a creatively delicious scratch-made brunch during UIUC Graduation weekend.

May Game Night: Theme TBA — CUDO Plays

6:30-9 p.m. — Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana — Free entry — Connect with fellow game lovers and enjoy an evening of fun games and camaraderie.

Wiz Khalifa Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Canopy Club — $85/ealistmap — Get ready for a night of live music with Wiz Khalifa at the Canopy Club in Urbana.

May Social at Research Park

5:00 – 6:30 p.m. — Research Park at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — Free entry — Network over drinks and snacks with local professionals in a relaxed atmosphere.

Beetlejuice Jr Musical

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Virginia Theatre — Cost TBA — Experience the whimsical chaos of Beetlejuice in this youth theatre production.