Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 24th of September.
Good morning, Champaign.
🏛️ Government
The USDA announced a $1 million loan to the Wabash Telephone Cooperative that will be passed to ECOF to expand disability services and renovate its facility in Teutopolis—creating 12 new jobs and new training spaces for skill development and health support.
The project will enhance daily educational instruction and workforce training for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
NASA has unveiled its 2025 astronaut candidate class with 10 individuals, including Illinois native Cameron Jones—an experienced test pilot with more than 1,600 flight hours and a degree in aerospace engineering from UIUC.
The candidates will undergo nearly two years of rigorous training at the Johnson Space Center to prepare for future missions to low Earth orbit, the Moon and Mars.
🏥 Health
Health experts say there is no proof that taking Tylenol while pregnant causes autism — current research shows it remains safe for treating fever.
They advise mothers to talk with their doctors and not let a new federal warning cause extra worry.
Scientists from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign analyzed three harmful tick species in Illinois and found that lone star ticks are most common in the south, deer ticks are frequent in the north and central parts, and dog ticks dominate in several counties.
The team used data from state records and local collections—identifying hotspots in areas like Hamilton, Pope, and Macon that face higher risks for tick-borne diseases.
🎉 Champaign Events
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ACES + LAS Career Fair
9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. — Illinois Conference Center — Free entry — Explore diverse career paths and network with industry leaders at this essential career fair.
Keep With Lunar Moth Concert
7-10 p.m. — The Space — $10 cover — Experience an exciting indie music performance by Lunar Moth and guests.
TWILIGHT (2008) Movie Screening with Blood Drive
2-9:45 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Free entry — Donate blood and enjoy a screening of the popular vampire movie 'TWILIGHT' while supporting a community cause.
Sunday Wine Down with Jadie & Doc Shredd
2-4 p.m. — Alto Vineyards Champaign — Enjoy great music while tasting fine wines — Unwind to the sounds of pop, classic rock, blues, and country hits.
Comedy Open Mic Night
8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Perfect opportunity for comedy enthusiasts to showcase their talent or enjoy a night of laughs.
Tom Grassman Band Live at Pour Bros
8-11 p.m. — Pour Bros. Craft Taproom — Free entry — Enjoy a night of live music with the Tom Grassman Band during the Friday Night Live Music series.
Run to Remember 5K
8 a.m. — Crystal Lake Park — Registration fee required — Honor memories and cherish today during this community-focused run.
Comedy Open Mic Night
8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Showcase your comedic talent or enjoy laughs at this weekly open mic night in downtown Champaign.
Chili Cook-off at Dandy Hound
6-8 p.m. — Dandy Hound — Ticket purchase required — Savor delicious chili samples while voting for your favorite recipe at this community cook-off.
MasterChef All Stars Live
7-8:30 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience culinary magic with your favorite MasterChef stars and thrilling live competitions.
🏠 Champaign Real Estate
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💼 Champaign Job Board
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📣 Champaign Announcements
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