Good morning, Champaign.

On September 28th, Champaign’s Equity & Engagement Department joined Police Chief Timothy Tyler, Council Member Shauna Clayborn, Senator Paul Faraci, Urbana officials and Blueprint partner First Followers at the Sons and Daughters in Heaven Gala to support families who have lost loved ones to gun violence. The gala—hosted by A Cry for You—honored community leaders who help turn loss into hope.

Champaign Police hosted Parkland College Criminal Justice students on Oct 2 to tour the facility and learn about police work—this event is part of the Early College and Career Academy that serves high school juniors and seniors from 15 local schools.

University researchers published a study last month showing that 72% of Illinois wetlands are unprotected and that about 700,000 acres, including areas near Champaign such as Busey Woods and Meadowbrook Park, risk development+ an estimated 100,000 acres remain safeguarded by local measures while wetlands help control flooding.

The City of Champaign is accepting bids—from contractors—for the demolition of the property at 1306 Winding Lane by its Neighborhood Services Department.

Central and Southern Illinois lawmakers questioned a massive clean energy plan and urged adding coal and gas plants to help lower power bills—warning that the current proposal does not guarantee cheaper rates.

State energy officials noted that without proper planning, rising costs may further strain consumers.

The Illinois State Fairgrounds will host nine all-breed dog shows at the Expo Center this October with each show starting at 8:30 a.m. on Oct.

10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, and 19—two of which are scheduled on Oct. 10 and 11—and kennel clubs from Champaign and other cities will sponsor the events to support preservation breeders.

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.

Halloween Fun Fest

5-7 p.m. — Market Place Shopping Center — Free entry — Enjoy a spooky evening with family-friendly activities and trick-or-treating.

The Golden Girls Live

7-8:30 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Tickets required — Laugh along as the Golden Girls return with an all-new show featuring Sophia's wild adventures.

Friday Night Music Sessions

8-11 p.m. — Pour Bros. Craft Taproom — Free entry — Enjoy live music from SASS while sipping craft beer in a lively atmosphere.

MANIA: The ABBA Tribute

7:30-9 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Tickets available — Celebrate the iconic music of ABBA in this lively tribute concert.

Rainy Day Miracle Book Signing

3-5 p.m. — Champaign Public Library — Free entry — Meet authors Matt and Jill Cheatham and hear their inspiring story of healing and faith.

October Game Night: Marketability — CUDO Plays

6:30-9 p.m. — Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana — Free entry — Connect with fellow gamers and explore the marketability of your favorite games.

Richard Thomas - Champaign

7:30-9 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Check venue for pricing — Emmy-winning actor Richard Thomas brings Mark Twain to life in this celebrated performance.