Good morning, Champaign.

On August 8, representatives from the Equity and Engagement Department and the Champaign Police Department attended a community event to support New Beginnings for families in Country Brook.

The event provided clothing, school supplies, and meals—directly assisting residents in need.

A 24-year-old Champaign woman riding a kick scooter was hit and killed by a vehicle Monday night at the intersection of Neil St. and Marketview Dr.—she crossed on a red light and police are asking nearby businesses for camera footage while the driver stayed at the scene.

Families in Champaign can find childcare options on school’s out days through local school programs like Champaign Unit 4 and community centers (Adventure Acres, YMCA, Champaign Park District centers, and I-Power School of Gymnastics) that offer supervision and enrichment activities. It is best to plan ahead and register day by day to secure a spot, since all programs have a cost and strict pickup policies.

The Urbana City Council unanimously approved Zachery Mikalik as the new Deputy Police Chief of the Urbana Police Department.

Mikalik served 18 years with the department and led programs in officer training and community outreach—he will attend the FBI National Academy to further his leadership skills.

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.

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.

National Black Business Month Social

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Neil St. Blues — Wing Wednesday Specials available — Celebrate Black-Owned Businesses with community, food, and live entertainment.

2025 Half Century of Progress Show

7 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Rantoul Half Century of Progress Farm Show — Adults $20 per day, $40 for a 4-day Pass — Experience working vintage farm demonstrations and local agricultural history at this premier event.

Full Band Performance at Pour Bros Taproom

9 PM — Pour Bros. Craft Taproom — Enjoy drinks while rocking out to live music performances in a vibrant atmosphere.

An Evening with Andrew Duncanson and Friends

8-10 p.m. — Fire Doll Studio — Cost not specified — Experience an intimate night of music with Andrew Duncanson and a talented lineup of friends in a cozy setting.

Teen Summer Program Concert

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Orpheum Champaign — Free entry — Experience the creative talents of local teens at this exciting showcase of music, dance, and arts.

PMP Certification 4-Day Classroom Training

9 AM – 5 PM — HQ — Training fee applies — Gain essential project management skills with hands-on learning and expert guidance.

Bollywood Party - Welcome Week!

9 PM – 2 AM — The Axe Bar — $10 Pre-Sale, $15 General Admission, $20 at the door — Experience the biggest Bollywood party with nonstop hits and high-energy dancing!

Western Illinois Leathernecks at Illinois Fighting Illini Football

6:30-8 p.m. — University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — Ticket prices vary — Watch a riveting college football matchup featuring the Leathernecks and Fighting Illini.