Good morning, Champaign.

The Champaign Unit 4 board shared a report with over 1,300 community responses that showed parents, staff, and students want a visible and accountable leader as the next superintendent.

The board opened the search process today and will review applications until Jan 2—interviews will follow soon.

Under The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, SNAP rules will change as the eligible age for ABAWDs rises from 54 to 64 and the dependent age drops from 14 to 18—new work requirements will take effect on Feb.

1 with impacts seen from May 1, 2026 while local agencies help residents fill out paperwork. Local health workers in Champaign are already aiding those who need guidance on the new rules.

Urbana cut the ribbon on its newest fire station on Monday; residents toured Station 2 on East Mumford Drive and met firefighters—Deputy Chief Steve Doggett welcomed the community at the ceremony.

Researchers from the University of Illinois received a $1 million grant from the FDA to test meat, poultry, and seafood from retail stores twice a month; the project, part of the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System, will work with the USDA+CDC to protect public health.

Breathwork Healing Session

6-7 p.m. — Plant Mode — All sales are final — Release stress and discover breath management techniques in a beautiful setting.

It's a Wonderful Life Screening

1-3 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — $10 — Celebrate the holiday season with a classic film about hope and redemption.

Derailed Fest Day 5

4-10 p.m. — Exile on Main St. — General Admission (Tickets available) — Experience a lively day of music with great bands and a DJ after-party.

CUDO Plays Open Playtest Event

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana — Free entry — Test out games and provide feedback in an engaging community setting.

3rd Annual Holiday Candle Party

6-8 p.m. — Alto Vineyards Champaign — Ticket required — Create your own custom-scented candles in a festive atmosphere with wine available for purchase.

Comedy Open Mic Night

8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughs and possibly take the stage at this weekly open mic event.

Sinfonia da Camera: Winter Fantasia

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a winter-themed concert led by the renowned Maestro Ian Hobson and a professional chamber orchestra.

Lindy Hoppers Swing Dance Night

7-9 p.m. — Hamilton Walker's — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening of swing dancing with great music and no partner needed.

Game Night - Visual Communication

6:30-9 p.m. — Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana — Free entry — Unwind with fellow game lovers while exploring games that excel in visual communication.

It's In Your Head Breathwork Class

6-7 p.m. — Plant Mode — All sales final — Experience a calming breathwork session to reduce stress and enhance mental clarity.