Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 28th of August.
Good morning, Champaign.
🚨 Crime
Champaign police were dispatched at 6:12 a.m. and found a 45-year-old man fatally shot near Maple and Prairie Streets along the railroad tracks — they ask anyone with tips or camera footage to contact them immediately.
🎭 Culture
Champaign Urbana Theatre Company's Penguin Project will present Shrek Jr. this weekend at Urbana High School theater with shows on Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m. The inclusive musical lets young artists perform—fostering creativity—and promises a heartfelt, fun experience for local audiences.
🏛️ Government
The I-74 Westbound—I-57 Southbound interchange is officially ready after major construction improved safety for drivers in Champaign County.
The $250 million project received 90% federal funding to fix truck stability issues and enhance traffic flow.
William Charles Construction and IDOT are keeping Anthony Drive closed between Dobbins Drive and Campbell Drive from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Friday, September 26—traffic is detoured in both directions while access to local properties remains available; the project started on July 22.
Illinois lawmakers passed two laws to boost school safety during shooting threats and chemical spills.
Senate Bill 2057 set threat-assessment standards for schools this month—while Senate Bill 71 will start on Jan. 1, 2026 to require evacuation plans and training for hazmat incidents.
🏥 Health
Viva Raw LLC recalled two lots of raw pet food sold in Illinois due to potential Salmonella and Listeria contamination, and the products were sold between July 2 and August 21.
Customers who have the products should contact the company for a refund—routine testing by a state lab identified the risk.
🎉 Champaign Events
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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.
BEAUTI BASH 2025
7-9 p.m. — Orpheum Champaign — Food and drinks included — Celebrate glamour and beauty at this fabulous event featuring talented local stylists.
Champaign Labor Day Parade and Celebration
11 a.m. — Downtown Champaign — Free entry — Celebrate Labor Day with a parade, picnic, food, and family-friendly activities.
Live Music Showcase: Rory Book and the Volumes, Blossomin Bome, The Swamp Rats
8-11:59 p.m. — The Space — Tip bucket for the bands — Enjoy a vibrant night of live music right after open mic night.
Comedy Open Mic Night at The Space
8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Enjoy a lively night of laughs as aspiring comedians take the stage during Comedy Open Mic Night.
Daughters Arise Conference 2025
12-3 a.m. — 1304 Anthony Dr, Champaign, IL — $35+ — A two-day faith-filled gathering to empower women to rise into purpose.
Sparta Live Music Event
6-11 p.m. — The Space — Refunds available up to 7 days before — Enjoy an evening of live performances featuring Sparta, Belles-Lettres, and Sunwise.
Comedy Open Mic Night
8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Explore your comedic talents or enjoy local humor at a welcoming venue in downtown Champaign.
Live Performance by The Boat Drunks
8-11 p.m. — Rose Bowl Tavern — $15 ADV | $20 Day-of — Enjoy a night of tropical tunes and top hits from The Boat Drunks on the patio.
Comedy Open Mic Night
8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Experience laughter and showcase your comedy skills every Thursday night.
🏠 Champaign Real Estate
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💼 Champaign Job Board
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📣 Champaign Announcements
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