Good morning, Champaign.

Former University of Illinois chancellor Michael Aiken died on Monday.

He served from 1993 to 2001 and led the campus plan Framework for the Future and Campaign Illinois—efforts that improved the school—and is survived by his wife Catherine and daughter Caroline.

Champaign County drivers now have a safer route as a new flyover ramp connecting westbound I-74 to southbound I-57 officially opens today — the nearly $300 million project funded mostly by federal dollars replaces a 60-year-old interchange that struggled with growing traffic and is expected to finish by 2027.

On August 28th, the Urbana City Council met to review a report from the Urbana Free Library showing nearly 234,218 visitors and 653,354 circulated items, and Kevin Garcia explained that the Urbana Night Market will run on Thursdays in September from 6 to 9 p.m.—the council also voted to appoint Rene Nicholson to the Civilian Police Review Board while discussing budget limits.

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.

EARTHGANG with Joel Q, Asha Omega, and Rollie

8 PM – 2 AM — The Canopy Club — Ticket prices not listed — Experience the unique sounds of Earthgang and special guests in a vibrant atmosphere.