Parkland College’s Support for Workforce Training (SWFT) program is set to launch a new Telecommunicator 9-1-1 training this summer, offering local residents a pathway into high-demand emergency dispatcher careers. The two-week training, which begins June 2, will be held through Parkland’s Office of Workforce Development and is open to community […]
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Light in the Darkness’ May 1 Event in Urbana Joins Global Movement Against “Billionaire Takeover”
The grassroots movement “50501” is planning a peaceful demonstration called “Light in the Darkness,” on May 1. The event will take place from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. along Florida Avenue/Kirby Avenue in Urbana, stretching from Blair Park to Hessel Park. Organizers are encouraging participants to bring signs to display before […]
Illinois Network for Pretrial Justice to Host Listening Session on Public Defense Reform
The Illinois Network for Pretrial Justice has announced a public listening session to address the state’s ongoing public defense crisis, scheduled for May 1. The event aims to gather community input and spotlight policy solutions for improving legal representation for those awaiting trial across Illinois. Date & Time: Thursday, May […]
St. Joseph Considers TIF District to Spark Growth, Hears Concerns from Stakeholders
The Village of St. Joseph is advancing discussions to establish its first Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District—a move aimed at spurring both residential and commercial development in the face of declining population and school enrollment. The proposal, discussed at a public hearing on April 15, has drawn a mix of […]
Illinois Amish Heritage Center Breaks Ground on New Visitor & Museum Center, Ushering in a New Era for Amish Heritage and Tourism
The Illinois Amish Heritage Center (IAHC), located between Arthur and Arcola, is breaking ground this month on its much-anticipated 10,000-square-foot Visitor and Museum Center. This major development marks a significant step forward in the Center’s mission to honor and preserve the rich heritage of Illinois’s Amish community through education, celebration, […]
Champaign-Urbana Public Health District Alerts Residents to Tularemia Risk Following Squirrel Deaths
The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) has issued a health advisory after several squirrels in Urbana were found dead, with one testing positive for tularemia, a rare but serious bacterial disease that can affect both humans and animals. Tularemia is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis, commonly found in wild animals […]
International Dark Sky Celebration 2025: A Night to Preserve the Stars
On Saturday, April 26, the Middle Fork River Forest Preserve in Rankin, Illinois, will host the International Dark Sky Celebration, an event dedicated to raising awareness about light pollution and promoting the beauty of natural night skies. This special occasion coincides with International Dark Sky Week, a global initiative that highlights […]
Vermilion County Conservation District to Host Illinois RiverWatch Workshop at Forest Glen Preserve
The Vermilion County Conservation District, in collaboration with the National Great Rivers Research and Education Center (NGRREC), is set to host an Illinois RiverWatch Workshop at the Forest Glen Preserve on Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will take place at the Gannett Education Center […]
Staerkel Planetarium Unveils Exciting Summer 2025 Show Lineup
The William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College has revealed its highly anticipated Summer 2025 schedule, offering a diverse array of shows designed to captivate audiences of all ages. From explorations of the cosmos to sensory-friendly experiences, this summer promises to be an unforgettable season for astronomy enthusiasts and families […]
Gina Miles and Parmalee to Headline 2025 Mahomet Music Festival August 22–23
The 2025 Mahomet Music Festival is set for August 22 and 23, with headliners Gina Miles of Paxton and Parmalee. Miles, winner of The Voice Season 23, is known for her emotional performances and powerful vocals. As part of Niall Horan’s team, Miles won US$100,000 and a record deal with […]