Thursday, July 17th, 2025

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Good morning, Champaign. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 17th of July.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Dozens of people still live at the condemned Champaign Park apartments, closed in June after years of neglect by an out-of-town landlord; township and Neighborhood Services officials are in litigation with the owner and worry about an upcoming heat wave leaving residents without power, water, or air conditioning — shelters are full and a safe relocation plan has not been found. WCIA
- ➤ A January Point-in-Time count in Champaign County found 355 homeless individuals—a rise of 76 from January last year—with counts showing 56 unsheltered people, 169 in emergency shelters, and 130 in transitional housing, along with more minors and households affected. CSPH said rising housing costs and a lack of affordable options contributed to the increase and that the data will help guide federal funding and local housing efforts. WCIA
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Champaign police arrested two teenagers — a 15-year-old and a 16-year-old — on Tuesday after a 14-year-old boy received gunshot wounds in the outdoor area of an apartment complex on the 1100 block of N. Third Street; officers gave him first aid before transporting him to a local hospital where he remains in stable condition. WICS
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Families in Champaign can visit Curtis Orchard for a fall outing with free entry, apple and pumpkin picking, and playful kittens. The orchard will open on July 20 and runs through Dec. 23, featuring a newly expanded Land of Oz Activity Area + kid-friendly mazes and dining options. ChambanaMoms
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Tyler Schmitt was drafted in the 17th round by the San Diego Padres after one season with the Illini—he is the first Illini chosen in the 2025 MLB Draft and led the team with 58 strikeouts in 15 starts following two years at Wisconsin-La Crosse. This milestone marks a significant step in his baseball career. WCIA
TRAVEL NEWS
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Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Good Day Champaign.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Patio Paradise: Tiki Event 2025
1-6 p.m. — Pour Bros. Craft Taproom — Event-only Tiki drinks await — Celebrate summer with a tropical drinks lineup at Pour Bros.' favorite patio party.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

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Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Good Day Champaign.
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