Bruce Johnson+FollowChampaign’s sports stars tie the knot!Luke Goode and Kayla Burbage, two standout athletes from Champaign, just got engaged! Goode, who lit up the court for the Illini and now plays for the South Bay Lakers, proposed to Burbage, a powerhouse on Illinois’ volleyball team. Both have overcome major injuries and made big comebacks in their college careers, making this news even sweeter. Their story is a real celebration of resilience and love in the local sports community. How do you think their shared experiences as student-athletes will shape their future together? #Sports #Champaign #Illini10Share
Valerie Hall+FollowChampaign loses a sweet spot: Hunny Bunny Bakes closesHunny Bunny Bakes, a beloved bakery in Champaign-Urbana, is closing its doors after years of serving up treats for our celebrations and everyday cravings. While the storefront won’t be open, the owner is still taking select orders and hosting a farewell cookie decorating class on Jan. 24 at The CU Flower House. Plus, a recipe book is in the works for 2026! It’s bittersweet news for anyone who’s ever picked up a birthday cake or cookies from them. How do you feel about losing this local favorite? What’s your favorite Hunny Bunny memory? #Food #Champaign #LocalBusiness00Share
Dr. Robert Barnes+FollowKwanzaa brings new energy to ChampaignBethel AME Church just made history by celebrating Kwanzaa for the first time, and it’s adding a fresh spark to Champaign’s holiday season. Instead of replacing Christmas, Kwanzaa is giving families a chance to blend traditions and focus on values like unity, faith, and creativity. Pastor Thomas and Dr. Renae both see these principles as life skills that can strengthen our community. It’s inspiring to see a local church open its doors to new ways of celebrating and connecting. How do you feel about mixing holiday traditions? Would you join in next year? #Religion #Kwanzaa #Champaign00Share
davenportmeghan+FollowReal estate just got easier in ChampaignFinding a home in Champaign and beyond just got a whole lot simpler. Hayley Siefert and her new full-service real estate team are now covering central Illinois and parts of Indiana, making the process smoother for everyone—from first-time buyers to those with more complicated needs. Each team member brings something special to the table, whether it’s deep market knowledge, family experience, or a knack for solving tricky problems. Plus, they’re all about helping people plan realistically and connect with trusted pros for every step. How do you think a team approach changes the home-buying experience? #RealEstate #Champaign #HomeBuying00Share
andersonkaren+FollowChampaign families hit the ice for winter funThe University of Illinois ice arena was buzzing this weekend as families and students filled the rink for a lively open-skate session. There’s something special about seeing kids laughing as they glide across the ice, while adults and college students—some trying skating for the first time—join in the fun. It’s a throwback to childhood for many, including longtime instructor Katie Powers, who loves watching everyone enjoy themselves. With public skate times happening at least twice a week, it’s become a favorite winter hangout. Who else has memories or tips for first-time skaters at the Champaign rink? #Sports #Champaign #IceSkating00Share
Joel Johnson+FollowChampaign parents get creative for baby’s first ChristmasThere’s something magical about a baby’s first Christmas in Champaign. Local parents are turning simple moments—like the first visit with Santa or cozy nights in festive pajamas—into keepsakes that will last a lifetime. Instead of stressing over perfect photos, families are saving tiny treasures: a hospital wristband, a sprig from the tree, or even a gift tag. Scrapbooks are filling up with handwritten notes and little details that capture what made this season special. It’s all about preserving the memories that make the holidays truly unforgettable. How are you capturing your family’s holiday moments this year? #Relationships #Champaign #FirstChristmas10Share
Renee Hodges+FollowChampaign parents get creative for baby’s first ChristmasThere’s something magical about a baby’s first Christmas in Champaign—families are turning everyday moments into lifelong treasures. Instead of just snapping a few photos, parents are making scrapbooks filled with keepsakes like hospital wristbands, Santa visit receipts, and even a sprig from the tree. It’s not about perfection; it’s about capturing those tiny details that will mean so much years from now. Some are writing letters to their babies, sharing stories about favorite sounds or first reactions to holiday lights. What’s your favorite way to remember special moments like these? #Relationships #Champaign #FirstChristmas00Share
kerryrivera+FollowOperation Santa brings holiday magic to Champaign kidsEvery year, Eastern Prairie firefighters and Santa team up to deliver gifts and cheer to children spending the holidays at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. This tradition has been going strong for 33 years, all thanks to the generosity of neighbors who donate toys at Blaine’s Farm and Fleet. It’s more than just presents—it’s about making sure no child or family feels alone during the season. If you’ve ever wondered how much small acts of kindness matter, this is proof. How do you like to give back during the holidays? #Safety #Champaign #OperationSanta00Share
Cassandra Snyder+FollowMeet Jax: Champaign’s sweetest rescue catJax went from shivering outside in the cold to soaking up love and treats at CATsNAP. He’s about a year old, super chill, and already neutered—basically, the perfect addition if you’ve got other cats at home. CATsNAP’s team is always working to give cats like Jax a second chance at a cozy life. If you’ve been thinking about adopting, check out Jax’s video and see if he’s the one for your family. Would you consider bringing home a rescue cat? Let’s talk about what makes a house feel like home for our furry friends! #Pets #Champaign #AdoptDontShop30Share
marklowe+FollowChampaign’s Restoration Urban Ministries makes a comebackRestoration Urban Ministries is bouncing back in Champaign, reopening its transitional housing program just months after closing—and even a recent fire can’t stop them. The fire damaged an old building slated for demolition, but the team is still aiming for a January relaunch. What’s really moving is how community support, from small donations to big fundraisers, made this comeback possible. They’ll start small, gradually expanding to help up to 100 people, focusing on life skills and real change. With affordable housing still scarce, this is a big win for those in need. How can we keep this momentum going for our neighbors? #News #Champaign #CommunitySupport00Share
