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In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: nuEra Champaign Now Serving Medical Patients! and 10 more events.
Today's riddle: Why was the scarecrow given an award? 🤔 (Answer below!)
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1. I-57/74 ramp from eastbound I-74 to southbound I-57 closing Oct. 6 (jg-tc.com) — A key ramp at the I-57/74 interchange in Champaign will close the evening of Oct. 6 for about two weeks, forcing drivers onto a signed detour and likely causing delays. IDOT urges motorists to allow extra time, watch for changing work-zone conditions, and obey posted speed limits while permanent erosion-control work is completed.
2. For the 55-and-over crowd, Oct. 3-10, 2026 (news-gazette.com) — Older adults in Champaign can connect with the Helen Mary Stevick Center and CRIS Healthy Aging for activities, volunteer opportunities, and daily Peace Meal lunches at local sites. The article provides phone numbers, addresses, and reservation details so residents can join programs, get meals, or volunteer with nonprofits serving Champaign and nearby communities.
3. UIUC's Morrow Plots celebrate 150th anniversary (wandtv.com) — UIUC's historic Morrow Plots in Champaign are marking 150 years with a special exhibit at the Main Library, open throughout October. Locals can explore archival photos, scientific records, and stories showing how this tiny field became a nationally recognized landmark in agricultural research and campus life.
4. Purdue holds off Illinois, snaps 19-game Big Ten losing streak (statenews.net) — Illinois football fell 24-17 to Purdue in Champaign on Saturday, as the Boilermakers snapped a long Big Ten losing streak. Despite solid passing numbers from Katin Houser and a late touchdown, the Illini missed key chances, including a short field goal and a called-back long score, frustrating home fans.
5. SFS hosts forum on data centers, AI use (dailyillini.com) — Students for Socialism at the University hosted a forum criticizing data centers and AI expansion, tying national concerns to Champaign County's one-year moratorium and new task force on data center development. Speakers questioned corporate power, rising energy costs, and AI's role in classrooms, while calling for stronger public regulation and community involvement in future local decisions.
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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: "Why was the scarecrow given an award?" — Because he was outstanding in his field! (Thank you Teresa M. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!
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