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In today's newsletter:
Today's riddle: What did one strawberry say to the other strawberry? 🤔 (Answer below!)
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1. Champaign reports 1 scam for week ending Aug. 15, 2026 (chambanasun.com) — Champaign logged just one scam report for the week ending Aug. 15, with a resident losing $215 after paying upfront for work that was never done. The Better Business Bureau says its Scam Tracker lets locals search similar reports and submit their own experiences. Nationally, fraud losses remain high, topping $12.5 billion in 2024.
2. Champaign County homelessness rose slightly in 2026 count (wandtv.com) — Homelessness in Champaign County ticked up slightly in January's official count, but fewer people are living unsheltered and fewer youth are homeless, according to local providers. Advocates credit expanded shelter options and are drafting a countywide strategic plan to end homelessness, expected in October, which will guide future funding and services for Champaign-area residents.
3. Lowest price for E85 gas in Champaign County at $3.24 in week ending Aug. 15 (chambanasun.com) — Drivers around Champaign County saw E85 fuel dip as low as $3.24 per gallon at one station during the week ending Aug. 15, with an average of $3.72 across reporting locations. Only seven of 66 county stations offered E85, roughly matching the statewide low. Analysts say broader oil markets, refinery output, and seasonal demand continue to drive 2026 fuel costs.
4. From Harvard to Gies: Inside Nate Cichy's Whirlwind Summer That Landed Him in Champaign (illiniguys.com) — A highly touted freshman receiver, Nate Cichy, chose to come to Champaign and the University of Illinois' Gies College of Business instead of honoring his commitment to Harvard. The Illinois native's last-minute flip followed a standout track season and has quickly made him one of Bret Bielema's most talked-about newcomers, energizing local Illini football buzz.
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Ok Champaign! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: If you weren't so sweet, we wouldn't be in this jam! (Thank you Patti F. for sending it in!)
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