Illini Embrace Final Four Moment, But 'Know the Job is Far From Done'
Illinois basketball team celebrates historic tournament run, but remains focused on winning national championship.
Meet Melvin, the One-Eyed Rescue Dog Looking for a Home
Champaign Liquor Stores Near U. of I. Campus Hit Hard by Emergency Order
Crime
Champaign Crime Stoppers Seeks Tips in TJ Maxx Theft
Two women stole over $1,000 worth of clothing from the store in December 2025.

Champaign County Ramps Up Distracted Driving Enforcement in April
Increased patrols aim to curb phone use behind the wheel during awareness campaign.
Rash of Crimes Reported Across Champaign-Urbana
Weekly crime bulletin details incidents from March 12-19, 2026
Lifestyle
Portion of Second Street to be closed for construction
Champaign road closure to last one month

Study: HBCUs Boost Mobility for Nearby Black Youth
New research estimates social mobility effects of public HBCUs on Black children in the same county.
Parkland College Celebrates 60 Years of Education and Community Impact
The college will mark six decades of academic achievement and community engagement with a year-long celebration.
Politics
Champaign Faces Pension Debt Threat from Tier 2 Enhancements
Proposed state-mandated pension benefit increases could balloon Champaign's police and firefighter pension debt to nearly $200 million.

Two GOP Candidates Vie for Illinois' 13th District Seat
Joshua Loyd and Jeff Wilson compete in Republican primary for congressional race.
Champaign County Exec Candidates Discuss Climate Change, Data Centers
Jett and Hess outline plans to address local impacts of climate change and protect the Mahomet Aquifer
Sports
Illini Men's Basketball Win Sparks Celebrations with Few Incidents
University of Illinois police manage crowds and enforce temporary alcohol restrictions after big victory over Iowa.

Illinois Reaches First Final Four Under Brad Underwood
Illini coach credits versatility, size, and renewed defensive focus for long-awaited breakthrough
National Wheelchair Basketball Tournament Returns to McKale
The annual intercollegiate competition will take place April 1-4 in Tucson.
Science
Balcony Solar Gains Momentum Across State Legislatures
Bipartisan bills aim to boost adoption of DIY solar systems in over half of U.S. states

Researchers Use Solar Energy to Reduce Chemical Manufacturing Emissions
New method can significantly lower energy needs and carbon footprint of key industrial chemical process
Midwest Agrivoltaics Costs and Benefits Evaluated in New Study
Research team finds 'win-win' opportunities for soybean farmers and solar developers in semi-arid regions.