Good morning, Champaign.

The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District asked local businesses to offer an air-conditioned space for 50 cots as triple-digit heat indices are forecast next week — officials also seek sponsors for meals and urge the community to help homeless individuals until a cooling center is secured. Cunningham Township officials stressed the need for everyone to act quickly to keep people safe during the heat.

A shooting occurred Tuesday in Champaign when police responded around 5:01 p.m. to the 1100 block of N.

Third Street and a victim with life-threatening gunshot wounds was taken to a local hospital.

The state announced on Monday that EnterpriseWorks 2.0 will receive $3M from a $7M Tech Incubator Enhancement Grant to build a new facility in Research Park—designed to expand laboratory and manufacturing spaces for startups.

The project will boost the capacity of the existing incubator and support local innovation.

The Mahomet-Seymour school district added a third portable classroom at the junior high to ease overcrowding for a slightly larger enrollment this fall — the building holds two classrooms and entrance upgrades will be completed before the school year starts.

Champaign Unit 4 School District released its 2024-2025 AP Exam scores showing record growth in participation and strong performance—79.3% of exams earned a 3 or above, up from 76.8% last year, with 658 students taking at least one exam and 1,152 exams taken overall.

The report also noted increases in AP participation among Black and Hispanic students compared to previous years.

Crop researchers and students at University of Illinois will gather on Aug.

7 at the farm on South First Street for the fourth annual Crop Physiology Field Day. Crop scientist Fred Below said the event will showcase research on soybeans and corn — visitors may register ahead though it is not required.

University Laboratory High School has selected Robert Fitzgerald as its new director and principal pending approval from the University Board of Trustees and he is serving as interim director for education from July 1 to 25 — he will replace former principal Elizabeth Majerus and brings over 20 years of educational experience including two years as assistant principal at Thomas Metcalf Laboratory School.

Urbana city council approved a special use permit Monday for business owner Halton Bagley to buy and renovate the old fraternity house at South Lincoln and West Indiana Avenue into a hostel for adults 18 and older.

Bagley said the hostel will offer more than 20 rooms with shared rooms costing about $35 and private rooms about $65—pending building inspections and necessary renovations to meet safety codes.

The City’s Municipal Electric Aggregation program, suspended since July 2024, remains on hold until a spring 2026 review—city staff tried four times in summer 2025—and residents can either stay with Ameren, choose a new supplier, or join community solar.

Bollywood Party - Bonalu Celebration

9 PM-2 AM — The Axe Bar — $20 cover at the door — Dance and celebrate the vibrant Bonalu festival with the biggest Bollywood party in Central IL.

CUDO Plays Game Night

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana — Free entry — Unwind with fellow gamers and enjoy a night of friendly competition and socializing.

Free Pool Party at Crystal Lake Park

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Crystal Lake Park Family Aquatic Center — Free entry — Enjoy a fun-filled evening at a community pool party with activities for swimmers and non-swimmers alike.

Summer Splash

Join us for an exciting and family-friendly event at Lake of the Woods, brought to you by the Forest Preserves in partnership with the Upper Sangamon River Conservancy. Summer Splash features a variety of activities including fishing, canoeing, kayaking, pedal boats, educational exhibits, live fish with Illinois Department of Natural Resources, live music, and more!

Summer Splash

Join us for an exciting and family-friendly event at Lake of the Woods, brought to you by the Forest Preserves in partnership with the Upper Sangamon River Conservancy. Summer Splash features a variety of activities including fishing, canoeing, kayaking, pedal boats, educational exhibits, live fish with Illinois Department of Natural Resources, live music, and more!

Beautiful - The Carole King Musical

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the life and music of Carole King in a vibrant musical celebration.

Flower Arranging Workshop

6:30-9 p.m. — Graceful Acres Flower Farm — Cost information not provided — Create stunning floral displays while connecting with other women in the community.

Beautiful - The Carole King Musical

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Virginia Theatre — Cost varies — Celebrate the life and music of Carole King through her unforgettable songs and inspiring story.

Senior Luncheon and Bingo

12 – 2 PM — Douglass Community Center — Free meal — Seniors can enjoy a delicious lunch and participate in exciting rounds of BINGO with prizes.

Lindy Hoppers Swing Dance

7-9 p.m. — Hamilton Walker's — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of lively swing dancing and great music with no experience needed.

Mindful Expressionism Workshop

6:30-9:00 p.m. — RootDown Meditations — All materials provided — Engage in a therapeutic painting experience that promotes healing and joy through expressionism.