39. Weather records in Champaign - Urbana

If you are depressed by the rainy, foggy, winter weather of Champaign Urbana Savoy, you might pass the time reading the weather records of the area. Following are some bits and pieces of info on weather in this area. Just for the record, Today's high of 61°F (17° C) was the highest for this day (December 27) in the last 100 years!! It tied the all time high record for this day ... the only so hot December 27 in recorded history was in 1907.

• Average warmest month: July
  

• The record high is 109° F (43°C) on July 14, 1954.

• Coolest month: January.

• The record low is -25° F (-32°C) on four(!) occasions: 9 Feb 1899, 13 Feb 1905, 19 Jan 1994, and 5 Jan 1999.

• The most precipitation on average occurs in May.
  
  
• The maximum seasonal snowfall was 67.2 inches in the winter of 1977-78.
  
  
• The minimum seasonal snowfall was 6.7 inches in the winter of 1953-54.

• The greatest depth of snow on the ground was 19 inches on February 8-10, 1982.

• The greatest 24-hour snowfall was 15 inches on January 1-2, 1999.

• The average date of the first measurable snow (one-tenth of an inch or more) is November 23.

• The average date of the first 1-inch snow (1 inch or more) is December 2.

• The average date of the last spring frost is April 15.

• The average date of the first fall frost is October 17.

[Source: UofI]

38. Candlestick lane in Champaign-Urbana

Looking for nice Christmas lights and displays? Then you must visit Candlestick Lane in Urbana.




(image from gct13.com )

Candlestick Lane is located along Grant Place and parts of Eastern Drive and Fairlawn Drive, between Cottage Grove and Philo Road, Urbana. Each year, residents in this neighborhood decorate their homes and yards with many holiday lights and decorations. It is estimated that about 50 homes in this neighborhood display approximately 50,000 lights each year. (Source: Champaign Public Library)

News-gazette reported in 2006 that the tradition started in around 1960.




(another great image from gct13.com)



Unfortunately, the sad state of the economy took its toll this year (2008). On November 12, News-Gazette reported that the people living on Candlestick lane decided to cut back the lighting, at least for this year.


I am still hopeful that they will put on at least some display. So, do pay a visit to the famous street of Urbana, and bask in the light of Christmas.

Happy Holidays!!

37. Churches, Synagogue, and Mosques in Champaign Urbana

Feeling the need to pray / worship?

Champaign-Urbana area has a large number of Churches and other religious centers, providing services to people of many denominations and religions.

Besides Christian churches, there are also several Jewish and Islamic religious centers.

Following is a list of the religious centers and houses of worship in Champaign-Urbana area and the nearby region.

[Christianity] [Judaism] [Islam] [Buddhism]

Christianity

ASSEMBLY OF GOD

Crossroads Campus Church
912 W. Springfield Avenue
Urbana 61801
(217) 337-1681

Meadowbrook Community Church
1902 S. Duncan Road
Champaign 61822
(217) 351-3019

Urbana Assembly of God
2502 S. Race Street
Urbana
(217) 344-5455

Rantoul First Assembly of God
1934 County Road 3000N
Urbana
(217) 892-8485

BAPTIST

Bible Baptist Church
201 N. Century
Rantoul 61866
(217) 893-3888

Calvary Baptist Church
W. Bridge at Foothill Road
Monticello 61856
(217) 762-2988

Calvary Baptist Church
2106 E. Windsor Road
Urbana 61802
(217) 367-2262

Crossroads Church
Services at: Best Western Hotel
Office at: 101 N. Market
Monticello 61856
(217) 762-5700

Faith Baptist Church
215 E. Pembroke
Tuscola 61953
(217) 253-2084

First Baptist Church of Arthur
120 E. Park Street
Arthur 61911
(217) 543-2592

First Baptist Church
of Champaign/Savoy
1602 Prospect Avenue at Burwash
Savoy 61874
(217) 352-2240

First Baptist Church
of Rantoul
401 Glenwood Drive
Rantoul
(217) 892-2667

First Baptist Church of Tuscola
300 E. Daggy Street
Tuscola 61953
(217) 253-4231

Garden Hills Baptist Church
1601 W. Bloomington Road
Champaign 61820
(217) 356-0891

Grace Church
800 W. Oak
Mahomet 61853
(217) 586-4331

Temple Baptist Church
1100 Broadmoor Drive
Champaign 61821
(217) 356-5685

University Baptist Church
314 E. Daniel Street
Champaign 61820
(217) 344-0484

BIBLE

Gibson City Bible Church
301 S. Melvin Street
Gibson City 60936
(217) 784-5702

Twin City Bible Church
806 W. Michigan Avenue
Urbana 61801
(217) 344-0641

CATHOLIC

St. Mary's Church
110 E. Edgar Street
Paris 61944
(217) 466-3355

St. Patrick's Catholic Church
708 W. Main Street
Urbana 61801
(217) 367-2665

CHARISMATIC

Curtis Road Church of God
2604 W. Curtis Road
Champaign 61822
(217) 359-8285

CHRISTIAN

Christian Life Community Church
300 N. Maplewood
Rantoul 61866
(217) 892-8620

Church of Christ
at St. Joseph
226 E. Sherman
St. Joseph 61873
(217) 469-2207

First Christian Church
3601 S. Staley Road
Champaign 61822
(217) 356-1649


CHRISTIAN REFORMED

Hessel Park Church
700 W. Kirby Avenue
Champaign 61820
(217) 356-3177

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Church of Christ at Kemp
132 W. Kemp Street
Arcola 61910

Philo Road Church of Christ
2601 S. Philo Road
Urbana 61802
(217) 344-1659

River Valley Church of Christ
17 Owl Creek Lane
Fisher 61843
(217) 897-1260

CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE

New Day Community Church
2611 W. Springfield Avenue
Champaign 61821
(217) 356-4747

Tuscola Church of the Nazarene
1001 Egyptian Trail
Tuscola 61953
(217) 253-3541

EPISCOPAL

St. John the Divine
1011 S. Wright Street
Champaign 61820
(217) 344-1924

GREEK ORTHODOX

Three Hierarchs
Greek Orthodox Church
2010 Three Hierarchs Court
Champaign
(217) 352-3452

INTERDENOMINATIONAL

Calvary Temple
700 E. Main Street
Arcola 61910
(217) 268-4605

Covenant Fellowship Church
1203 W. Green Street
Urbana 61801

Grace Community Church
2901 Watterson Court
Champaign 61822
(217) 373-1271

The Masters House
214 W. Flessner
Rantoul 61822
(217) 892-1900

LUTHERAN

Friendship Lutheran Church
3601 S. Duncan Road
Champaign
(217) 355-0454

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
2101 S. Prospect Avenue
Champaign 61820
(217) 352-1732

Grace Lutheran Church
313 S. Prospect Avenue
Champaign 61820
(217) 356-6232

St. Andrew's Church
909 S. Wright Street
Champaign 61820
(217) 344-1593

St. John Lutheran Church
509 S. Mattis Avenue
Champaign 61820
(217) 359-1714

St. Matthew Lutheran Church
2200 S. Philo Road
Urbana
(217) 367-1189

Trinity Lutheran Church
701 E. Florida Avenue
Urbana 61801
(217) 367-8923

MENNONITE

East Bend Mennonite Church
702 CR 3300 N
Fisher 61843
(888) 269-5963 or (217) 897-6386

First Mennonite Church
902 W. Springfield Avenue
Urbana 61801
(217) 367-5353

PRESBYTERIAN

First Presbyterian Church, Champaign
302 W. Church Street
Champaign 61820
(217) 356-7238

First Presbyterian Church, Gibson City
401 N. Church Street
Gibson City 60936
(217) 784-5422

QUAKER

Urbana-Champaign Friends Meeting
PO Box 34
Urbana 61803
(217) 328-5853

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST

Unitarian Universalist Church
309 W. Green Street
Urbana 61801
(217) 384-8862

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

Community United Church of Christ
805 S. Sixth Street
Champaign 61821
(217) 344-5091

St. Peter's United Church of Christ
905 S. Russell
Champaign 61821
(217) 356-3635

UNITED METHODIST

Faith United Methodist Church
1719 S. Prospect Avenue
Champaign 61820
(217) 359-3631

First United Methodist Church of Champaign
210 W. Church Street
Champaign 61820
(217) 356-9078

First United Methodist Church of Rantoul
200 N. Century Boulevard
Rantoul 61866
(217) 892-2130

First United Methodist Church of Urbana
304 S. Race Street
Urbana

Gibson City United Methodist Church
206 E. Tenth Street
Gibson City
(217) 784-5452

Grace United Methodist
2004 Philo Road
Urbana 61802
(217) 328-1414

Loda United Methodist Church
200 S. Locust Street
Loda 60948
(217) 386-2626

New Horizon
United Methodist Church
3002 Bloomington Road
Champaign 61822
(217) 359-8909

Rossville
United Methodist Church
116 Maple
Rossville 60963
(217) 748-6760

Savoy United Methodist Church
402 Graham Drive
Savoy 61874
(217) 352-3993

Shiloh United Methodist Church
352 County Road & 2700N
Mahomet
(217) 897-1325

Tuscola United Methodist Church
901 N. Prairie Avenue
Tuscola
(217) 253-4232

Wesley United Methodist Church
1203 W. Green Street
Urbana 61801
(217) 344-1120

UNITED PENTECOSTAL

Apostolic Life, UPC
2107 High Cross Road
Urbana 61801
(217) 367-5433

VINEYARD

The Vineyard
1500 N. Lincoln Avenue
Urbana
(217) 384-3070

WESLEYAN

First Wesleyan Church
408 E. Illinois Street
Urbana 61801
(217) 367-4566

WORD/FAITH

Harvest Church
2118 N. Cindy Lynn
Urbana 61802
(217) 328-7711




Judaism

JEWISH

Hillel Foundation of the
University of Illinois
503 E. John Street
Champaign 61820
(217) 344-1328

Sinai Temple
3104 W. Windsor Road
Champaign 61821
(217) 352-8140


Islam


ISLAMIC

Central Illinois Mosque &
Islamic Center
106 S. Lincoln
Urbana 61801
(217) 344-1555


Buddhism

BUDDHIST

Clear Sky Zen Group
(217) 355-0070

Prairie Zen Center
515 S. Prospect
Champaign 61821
(217) 355-3835

36. Fast Food Restaurants in Champaign Urbana

Are you craving for a burger or a sub?

If you are an aficionado of greasy burgers and fries, Champaign Urbana has a ton of offerings for you. While I don't recommend fast food for their obvious health repercussions, I have found a fast food place in Champaign-Urbana / UIUC at almost every block in campustown!!

So here is the list. Note that the list may miss some chains ... I can remember only so many fast food chains right now :(

McDonalds

• 501 N Mattis Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 359-0588
  
  
• 2909 W Kirby Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 359-3856
  
• 1812 N Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 359-5251
  
  
• 1605 S Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 356-6679
  
  
• 4910 N Market St, Champaign, IL - (217) 643-7918
  
  
• 601 N Cunningham Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 367-3722
  
  
• 1705 Philo Rd, Urbana, IL - (217) 337-6599
  

Burger King

• 211 W Clark St, Champaign, IL - (217) 356-5464
  
  
• 2005 W Springfield Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 398-8906
  
  
• 2110 N Prospect Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 398-7801

Arby's Roast Beef Restaurant

• 1913 W Springfield Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 356-0622
  
  
• 1502 N Prospect Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 353-0744
  
  
• 2310 S Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 398-5677
  
  
• 509 N Cunningham Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 367-5624

Hardee's

• 1703 S Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 355-0946

Dairy Queen

• 3602 N Mattis Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 373-2412
  
  
• 911 W University Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 344-4108
  
  
• 1501 Lyndhurst Aly, Savoy, IL - (217) 356-3065

Wendy's Old Fashioned Hamburgers

(Note: All 3 Wendy's have been reported to be closed now!!! )

• 1905 S Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 352-3289
  
  
• 2033 N Prospect Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 355-9484
  
  
• 410 N Race St, Urbana, IL - (217) 367-9581

Culver's

• 2302 S Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 352-1699
  
  
• 903 W Marketview Dr, Champaign, IL - (217) 356-8132

Taco Bell

• 1707 S Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 403-9803
  
  
• 10 E Anthony Dr, Champaign, IL - (217) 398-2159
  
  
• 2000 N Neil St # 706, Champaign, IL - (217) 378-5054
  
  
• 1910 W Springfield Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 356-7526
  
  
• 3303 Kimberly Dr, Champaign, IL - (217) 403-9803
  
  
• 1003 W University Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 367-2871

Subway Sandwiches & Salads

• 616 E Green St # A, Champaign, IL - (217) 239-0108
  
  
• 45 E University Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 239-3030
  
  
• SPC 714, 2000 N Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 355-9437
  
  
• 1401 S Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 359-8565
  
  
• 610 E Daniel St, Champaign, IL - (217) 383-1033
  
  
• 1713 W Kirby Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 351-8565
  
  
• 706 W Marketview Dr, Champaign, IL - (217) 352-3600
  
  
• 1814 Glen Park Dr, Champaign, IL - (217) 356-4565
  
  
• 2610 N Prospect Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 352-9437
  
  
• 100 S High Cross Rd, Urbana, IL - (217) 328-2215
  
  
• 205 E Main St, Urbana, IL - (217) 328-4100
  
  
• 701 S Gregory St, Urbana, IL - (217) 239-7329
  
  
• 802 W University Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 367-1400
  
  
• 407 N Dunlap Ave, Savoy, IL - (217) 373-1000
  
  
• 1319 N Dunlap Ave, Savoy, IL - (217) 373-1000
  
  
• 505 S Dunlap Ave, Savoy, IL - (217) 398-4115
  
  

Quiznos sub

• 703 S Neil St Ste A, Champaign IL 61820 - 217-355-5750
  
  
• 1501 N Lincoln Ave, Urbana Illinois 61801 - 217-344-0289
  
  
• 114 N Vine St Urbana Illinois 61802 - 217-337-1916
  
  
• 407B N Dunlap Ave Savoy Illinois 61874 - 217-403-9880

Niros Gyros

• 905 S Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 352-6476
  
  
• 301 E Green St, Champaign, IL - (217) 365-9271
  
• 2001 W Springfield Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 355-6760
  
• 1007 W University Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 328-6476
  
• 1505 E Washington St, Urbana, IL - (217) 344-1100

And finally, Our local chain!!

Jimmy John's
Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwich

• 43 E Green St, Champaign, IL - (217) 344-6200
  
  
• 1811 W Kirby Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 359-9100
  
  
• 1511 N Prospect Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 359-6700
  
  
• 2212 Fox Dr, Champaign, IL - (847) 888-7206
  
• 601 E Green St # B, Champaign, IL - (217) 344-4443
  
  
• 807 S Lincoln Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 328-3100

So, Enjoy!!!

35. Drugstores in Champaign Urbana

There are several Walgreens and CVS drug stores in Champaign Urbana area.

Walgreens

• 407 E Green St, Champaign, IL - (217) 344-0121
  
  
• (24 Hour Location) 1713 W Springfield Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 356-2529
  
  
• 1509 S Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 351-1516
  
  
• 841 Bloomington Rd, Champaign, IL - (217) 356-8209
  
  
• 2402 Village Green Pl, Champaign, IL - (217) 398-2764
  
  
• 302 E University Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 344-7201
  
  
• Ste A, 1809 Philo Rd, Urbana, IL - (217) 367-5486

CVS/pharmacy -

• 107 West Green Street, Champaign, IL - (217) 355-8123
  
  
• 243 South Mattis Avenue, Champaign, IL - (217) 352-9665
  
  
• 1818 South Philo Road, Urbana, IL - (217) 337-1192

Besides these, you can get prescriptions filled up at Meijer, Schnucks, Walmart and Sams Club locations.

34. Hospitals and Clinics in Champaign - Urbana

Need to see a doctor? Have to visit the emergency room, or just have to get a prescription?

In Champaign-Urbana, you are in good hands. The area has some very good hospitals with great reputation in the East Central Illinois region. Following is the list of medical centers, hospitals, clinics in Champaign Urbana area. Note that, today, I'll just write about the Big 3 hospitals / Clinics in the area.

Carle Foundation Hospital and Clinics
Carle Foundation Clinic and Hospital [website] is the biggest one in the area. It has numerous clinics and out patient services, cancer institute, and pediatric facilities. The main facility is located at
611 W. Park Street, Urbana, Illinois 61801. Phone (217) 383-3311. They recently expanded a lot, and have buildings on either side of University Avenue.

Here is how you can get to the main facility from various directions / Interstates.

Here are their clinic locations:

Carle Clinic – Urbana on Windsor
1818 E. Windsor Road, Urbana
(217) 255-9500

Carle Clinic – Champaign on Curtis
1701 W. Curtis Road, Champaign
(217) 365-6200

Carle Clinic Association
602 W. University Avenue, Urbana
Breezeway at Carle Foundation Hospital
(217) 383-3077

[The Mattis and Kirby locations are now closed for renovations, so check out the above addresses for the particular service you are looking for]

And here are some useful Carle Phone numbers

• Patient Rooms (217) 383-6000
• Patient Advisory Nurse (217) 383-3233
• Emergency Department (217) 383-3313
• Patient Accounting (217) 326-2900
• OB Services (217) 383-3140

Provena Covenant Hospital / Clinic

This is a Catholic hospital system with facilities in many cities [Website]. In Urbana, they have a big hospital, located right next to the University (esp. the Computer Science department at Siebel center).

"Provena Covenant Medical Center in Urbana, Illinois, is where a tradition of clinical excellence and service to others come together to create powerful healing. A 254-bed regional hospital serving 13 east central Illinois and western Indiana counties, Provena Covenant continues to be honored for its achievements in advancing patient care. "

Address: 1400 W. Park St, Urbana, Illinois 61801

Phone numbers

• General Information (217) 337-2000
• PRO Ambulance (217) 337-2911
• PRO Medivan (217) 337-2911
• Emergency Department (217) 337-2131
• Family Maternity Center (217) 337-2122
• Home Health Care (217) 337-2433
• Hospice Care Center (217) 337-CARE
• Pharmacy (217) 337-4545
• Rehabilitation Center (217) 337-2109
• Volunteer Services (217) 337-2378

Christie Clinic
In Champaign Urbana, Christie Clinic has several locations. [web]

Christie Clinic on University
101 West University Avenue
Champaign IL 61820
217.366.1200

Christie Clinic on Windsor
1801 West Windsor Road
Champaign IL 61821
217.366.8000

Christie Clinic at Provena Covenant
1400 West Park Street
Urbana IL 61801
217.366.1200

Christie Clinic in Urbana
1710 East Windsor Road
Urbana IL 61802
217.344.9440

Christie Clinic at County Market - Corner of Kirby & Duncan
2901 West Kirby Avenue
Champaign IL 61821
217.366.8130

Christie Clinic at County Market - Glenn Park Drive
1914 Glenn Park Drive
Champaign IL 61821
217.366.8130

Christie Clinic Cancer Center
109 West University Avenue
Champaign IL 61820
217.366.5180

Christie Clinic at C U Sleep
1207 South Mattis Avenue, Suite #3
Champaign IL 61821
217.355.1684

And of course we do have the good ol' ...

McKinley Health Center

Well, this is actually a clinic for U of I students. [web]
Location 1109 S. Lincoln Ave. Urbana, IL 61801
Phone: 217-333-2701

For difficult cases, they will invariably refer you to the other locations. Still, for students, it's quite convenient to go to ... it's located on Lincoln, and on or near several bus routes.


------------

That's all for today, may be I'll write about smaller clinics and convenient care facilities in Champaign Urbana area.

33. Car Towing services in Champaign - Urbana

Towing? You either hate it (when your car gets towed), or love it (when your broken down car needs towing), but either way, it's good to know how you can get access to towing services in Champaign-Urbana. Nobody knows when they might need towing ... or to find out where their car has been towed!!

So, let's take a look at the towing companies in Champaign-Urbana area:

• Reynolds Towing Service Inc -
  210 E University Ave # B, Champaign, IL , (217) 352-3063
  304 E Anthony Dr, Urbana, IL - (217) 337-0913
  http://www.reynoldstowing.biz
  
  
  
• Andy's Towing - 515 N Market St, Champaign, IL
  http://www.andystowingandlimos.com - (217) 352-6969
  
  
  
• Tatman's Towing - 727 S Mattis Ave, Champaign, IL -
  http://www.tatmanstowing.com - (217) 355-2368
  
  
  
• Road Ready Truck & Tire - 51 E Leverett Rd, Champaign, IL - http://www.roadreadytruckandtire.com - (217) 643-2800
  
  
  
• Acme M & K Towing - 1207 Hagan St, Champaign, IL - (217) 398-1199
  
  
  
• R & S Towing & Auto Repair - 215 S Locust St, Champaign, IL - (217) 352-9584
  
  
  
• Don's 24 Hour Towing Recovery and Repair Inc - 2810 N Lincoln Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 344-2676
  
  
• Feldkamp's 24 Hour Towing - 304 S Anderson St, Urbana, IL - (217) 367-7888
  
  
  
• CU West Auto Repair & 24 Hour Towing - 209 N Prairie View Rd, Mahomet, IL - (217) 586-2729
  
  
• Joe's Body Shop & Towing? - 403 N 4th St, St Joseph, IL - (217) 202-9997
  
  
• Mike's Garage & Towing 703 N 4th St, St Joseph, IL - (217) 469-2018
  
  
• Joe's Body Shop Towing & Recovery - 200 E Grove Ave, Rantoul, IL - (217) 892-8200

Note that: I don't have any experience with any of them, so don't know about their rates. Please call their numbers to ask about their rates, locations etc.

32. Skating in Champaign - Urbana

Are you interested in Skating? Looking for a place to do so in bone-dry Chambana area? Though we don't have any good sized lakes here, there are some places where you can go to enjoy skating.


1. University of Illinois Ice Arena

This is perhaps the best venue for skating in Champaign-Urbana area. The Arena is located at 406 East Armory, Champaign (between Fourth and Fifth Streets).
Phone: (217) 333-2081

Public Skate General Admission

(Does not including skate rental_

• UI Student or Campus Rec Member (with valid i-card): FREE
• Children (under 3): Free
• Youth (4-12): $4.00
• Adult (13 and older): $5.00
• Family Pass: $20 (good for 5 family members and skate rental)

Group Passes

For groups of 8 or more skaters.

• $4/person when payment is made at least one day in advance*
• $5/person for groups paying at the door

* Prices include admission and skates.

Credit cards are accepted over the phone, (217) 333-2212, or stop by to purchase passes in person.

Discount Public Admission Cards

For individuals.

• $30/youth (10 session pass without skates)
• $40/youth (10 session pass with skates)
• $40/adult (10 session pass without skates)
• $50/adult (10 session pass with skates)

Skate Rental

• UI Student or Campus Rec Member: $1.00
• Public: $2.00

Skate Sharpening

• $5/pair of skates
• $8/new or custom skates

UI Ice Arena Fall 2008 Hours

• Monday-Friday: 11:15 am-12:45 pm (Noon Skates)
• Wednesday: 7-9 pm
• Friday: 7:30-10 pm (when no Illini Hockey games)
• Saturday/Sunday: 1:30-4 pm

2. Skateland

This is a facilty located at 208 W Curtis Rd, Savoy
Phone: (217)359-3335

Here is the rate info+schedule


Wednesday

Family night: 6:30 - 8:30 PM $5.00
FAMILY PRICE $15.00
(SKATE RENTAL EXTRA, UP TO 6 IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBERS
WITH A PARENT SKATING)

FAMILY SPECIAL $25.00
(SAME AS ABOVE PLUS
A 16" - 1 TOPPING PIZZA & 2 LITER OF POP)

THURSDAYS
AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE PARTIES

FRIDAYS
7:00 - 11:00 PM $8.00

SATURDAYS
1:00 - 4:00 PM $5.50
7:00 - 11:00 PM $8.00

SUNDAYS
1:00 - 4:00 PM $5.50
EVENINGS AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE PARTIES

SKATE RENTAL
REGULAR SKATE RENTAL $2.00
SPEED/ INLINE SKATE RENTAL $4.00

Enjoy!!!!

31. Indian Restaurants in Champaign Urbana

If you are looking for spicy Indian curry and other food, there is, sadly, only One option now in Champaign-Urbana area. And that option is: Bombay Grill on 403 E Green St, Champaign, IL 61801.

There used to be the Basmati Restaurant and Buffet, but they closed down recently. But on the bright side, Bombay Grill owners bought the site, and are going to open a spacious second location for Bombay Grill there.

There was the East West Fast food on Green Street, it was a vegetarian dining place, but it too closed down last year.

So, now, the only option is the bombay Grill. Their owner is, interstingly, a nepalese guy who has been in India for long time. The food is great, you can get vegetarian dishes as well as spicy lamb/chicken dishes. Being an Indian place, I don't think they serve any beef, but they do serve Goat dishes. I recommend their Biriyani (rice) dish. You can either have the mutton or the chicken one, or a vegi one. Their vegetable pakora is also a nice starter. The only problem with their current green street locaton is lack of space ... but I hope once they open their other site, it will be much better/spacious there.

Links:

Bombay Indian Grill,
403 E Green St, Champaign, IL 61801
Phone: (217) 344-3380

Website: http://www.bombayindiangrillcu.com

Menu: http://bombayindiangrillcu.com/fullmenu.php

30. Weather forcasts / links for Champaign Urbana

Well, given the fickle weather of Chambana, it always helps to find out the current weather condition. So, here are some assorted links that will take you right away to the current weather condition of Champaign-Urbana, as listed in various websites.

Bookmark this post ... you never know when you've got to check out the weather!!

Enjoy!!

UIUC Weather

Detailed weather info from UofI CropSci dept.

Weather.com

• Champaign
• Urbana

IlliniWeather.com

• Champaign
• Urbana

National Weather Service

FindLocalweather

• Champaign
• Urbana

Weather Underground

• Champaign
• Urbana

29. Emergency phone numbers in Champaign - Urbana

If you have an emergency, and need help from Police, Fire or Medical personnel, call 911
From a campus phone, dial 9-911

If you need help, but it's not an emergency, use the following numbers for police

• Champaign Police - 217-351-4545
  
  
• Urbana Police - 217-384-2320
  
  
• University of Illinois Police - 217-333-1216
  
  
• Champaign County Sheriff - 217-333-8911
  
  
• Danville Police - 217-431-2250
  
  
• Vermilion County Sheriff - 217-442-4080
  

28. Newspapers in Champaign - Urbana

If you are looking for a local newspaper in Champaign Urbana, you have two options :

• The Daily Illini
• The News-Gazette

The Daily Illini: The Daily Illini is the student newspaper of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The newspaper was founded in 1871. Twenty-thousand copies are produced each weekday during the university's fall and spring semesters and distributed free at more than 250 locations throughout Chambana.

Where can you get it? Most campus buildings have a newsstand where you can pick one up. Also, there are boxes around the campus, for example, near the bus stop at the Illini Union, where you can get a copy. Besides campus news, it has national and International coverage, as well as a good classified ads section.

• Website: http://www.dailyillini.com/

The News-Gazette: This is the regular newspaper of Champaign-Urbana-Danville area. This is a pretty old one ... tracing its origins to the 1850 "Urbana Union". After a series of mergers, the current incarnation of the paper started under its current name in 1919.

If you are looking for a regular print news paper, this might be the best option for you. Weekday issues cost 50 cents, while the sunday edition is $1.50. But, you get a lot of store coupons with the sunday edition. Besides the regular subscription, you can get a weekend subscription only too.

• Website: http://www.news-gazette.com/

27. Asian / Chinese/ Korean ethnic groceries in Champaign Urbana

Besides the Indian ethnic grocery I mentioned in #20, there are several other Asian grocery stores in Champaign - Urbana. These are mainly Chinese groceries, but also carry other Asian cuisines such as Korean, Vietnamese, Filipino etc.

Following is a list of Asian Grocery stores in Chambana.

• AM-KO Oriental Food : Located at the corner of 1st and Springfield in Champaign, this Korean Grocery store carries a huge collection of Asian grocery items. They have seafood, Kimchi, noodles, Indian spices/groceries, rice, herbs,tea, fresh vegetables etc.
  
  
• Chang's Oriental Mart : This is located between Neil and Randolph, and on Green. Right next to Annapoorna ... and the Champaign Public Library. This family run store has a lot of chinese grocery items. Even better, they have the best Butter fish (my favorite). You also get milk powder, vegetable, and different kinds of fish.
  
  
• Euro Mart : Located at the corner of 1st and Springfield in Champaign (diagonally opposite to Am-Ko), this is more of a Mediterranean grocery, and carries mostly middle eastern items. They do have Halaal/kosher meat, lamb, beef, chicken etc. A huge collection of Cheese, Olives and other such, items.
  
  
• Far East Market : The store doesn't give a good impression from the outside, but the moment you step inside, you'll be surprised. This store has perhaps the largest collection of Asian food items. The aisles are narrow, as they have a lot of different types of spices, canned food, fresh fish, vegetables, pickles, and what not! I especially like their seafood collection, but you've got to go there and see it for yourself.
  
  
• Green Onion : I haven't been there, but they are supposed to have organic and asian food/veggies.
  
  
• Lee's Oriental Foods : This is at the corner of Neil and Kirby (right next to the Walgreens). They carry Korean groceries.
  
  
• Maligaya's Store : I have not been to this store, but it is listed as a Filipino grocery.
  
  
• World Harvest International & Gourmet Foods : Like Euro-Mart, this is a Mediterranean grocery store. They have middle-eastern, arab, European stuff. Lamb/beef/chicken, kosher/halaal. Also a lot of cheese, olives etc. Good collection of exclusive items, chockolates etc. But the prices are a bit high.
  

26. Monsters and the law in Urbana

While reading about funny laws throughout the world, in particular the "funny Illinois law" section, I suddenly came across this interesting entry:

It is against the law for a monster to enter the corporate limits of Urbana, Illinois.

I felt intrigued and safe ... wow, the city is off limits to monsters!! So if the day comes when Godzilla or Freddy or Chucky or other monsters wander around the cornfields (so typical hang-out place for monsters), all I need to do is to cross Wright street to the East side and enter Urbana. The monsters should obey the law, and stop dead on their tracks ... honest law abiding monsters won't have the "courage" to come after the citizens of Urbana. (How lucky that I've moved from monster friendly Champaign to Urbana a few years ago!!)

But seriously, is it really a law?

After some googling, I came across this page, which gives the following explanation, an act from 1872,

Third. Circuses, menageries, caravans, hippodromes,side-shows and concerts, minstrel or musical entertainments given under a canvas, exhibitions of freaks of nature or monsters, and all exhibitions that may be given in the open air or under a canvas, not herein specifically mentioned, shall be known as entertainments of the third class.

Sec. 2. No person or persons shall give any entertainment mentioned in this chapter, within the corporate limits of the city, for gain, without a license therefor, first had and obtained from the City Clerk, under the corporate seal, under a penalty of not less than ten dollars nor more than
two hundred dollars for each offense.

So, there you go ... its TRUE!!! Monsters can't just walk into Urbana doing their usual Monster stuff ... they need to get a License!! Otherwise, they have to pay a fine between $10 and $200!!

So, next time the Chidlren of the Corn or Godzilla start heading towards Urbana, you can just whip out this statute, and tell them it's illegal for monsters to enter Urbana sans a license ...

[Image: Domo kun , from Commons]

25. Movies and movie theaters in Champaign Urbana

Champaign Urbana has several movie theaters.

My personal favorite is Boardman's Art Theatre in Downtown Champaign (126 W Church Street, Champaign, IL [Map] [Phone: (217) 355-0068] ). While this is a very small movie theater, it brings many indie films and foreign movies (such as Indian Hindi cinemas) from time to time. You can buy tickets online, or at the movie theater. There is meter parking available on the streers nearby, and also several restaurants.


Next comes Goodrich Savoy 16 . They have $1 movies for kids all summer, and also discount tickets during the afternoons. This is a big movie theater, and regularly brings the latest Hollywood Blockbusters. The theater is located at 232 W. Burwash Savoy, IL 61874 [Map] [Phone: (217) 355-3456 ]

The other big movie theater is Carmike Beverly Cinema 18 in North Prospect, Champaign. It is also a multiplex, and located right next to Meijer. Address: 910 Meijers Drive, Champaign, IL 61821 [Map]. [Phone: (217) 359-5687 ]

There is another small theater catering to the Indie movie circuit. Virginia Theater - Champaign
((217) 356-9053) 203 W Park Ave, Champaign, IL 61820

And there are occasional film screenings in the University too.


Note

If you are a student, be sure to present your student ID when purchasing a ticket. Most movie theaters will give you a discount on ticket prices.

24. Busey Bank locations and hours in Champaign Urbana

Busey Bank is one of the many banks of Champaign Urbana, but the main distinction is that this is a local bank, and one of the oldest in the area. It was established in 1868 by Dr. W. R. Earhart and the Busey brothers - Simeon Busey and Colonel Samuel T. Busey of Urbana.

Through various mergers and acquisitions, the bank has grown a lot. Most recently, in 2007, it merged with Main Street Bank and Trust.

This was my first bank in Champaign-Urbana area. The advantages are clear: the locations are quite convenient ... there is a branch right at the center of U of I campus (6th and Green), and also many other locations around the area. They also have a lot of ATMs, and so you don't have to pay any ATM fees when you use their ATMs. You get a Mastercard check/debit card which doubles as the ATM card.

The bank also has a nice rewards program, and you get points for referring new customers as well as making purchases on debit cards. I received an Ipod Shuffle recently after cashing in my 800 points.

Following are the locations of the bank branches, and the hours. A more updated list can be found at the Bank's site.

---

Champaign

• Busey Bank, Champaign 217-384-3400
  909 W Kirby, Champaign, IL 61820 24-Hour ATM Available
  Lobby: Mon - Fri - 8:30am to 5pm | Sat - 9am to 12pm
  Drive Up: Mon - Fri - 7am to 7pm | Sat - 7am to 4pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, Champaign - Campus 217-365-4552
  614 S Sixth St, Champaign, IL 61820 24-Hour ATM Available
  Lobby: Mon - Fri� 9am to 5pm | Sat - 9am to 12pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, Champaign - North 217-355-1580
  907 N Marketview, Champaign, IL 61822 24-Hour ATM Available
  Lobby: Mon - Thur - 9am to 5:30pm | Fri - 9am to 6pm | Sat - 9am to 1pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, Springfield & Country Fair 217-351-2854
  2011 W Springfield Ave, Champaign, IL 61821 24-Hour ATM Available
  Lobby: Mon - Fri - 9am to 5pm | Sat - 9am to 12pm
  Drive Up: Mon - Fri - 7am to 7pm | Sat - 7am to 7pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, Springfield & Randolph 217-351-2700
  314 S Randolph, Champaign, IL 61820 24-Hour ATM Available
  Lobby: Mon - Fri - 9am to 5pm | Sat - 9am to 12pm
  Drive Up: Mon - Fri - 7am to 7pm | Sat - 7am to 7pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, University & Randolph 217-351-6500
  100 W University, Champaign, IL 61820
  Lobby: Mon - Fri - 9am to 4pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, Windsor & Duncan 217-351-2820
  3002 W Windsor, Champaign, IL 61821 24-Hour ATM Available
  Lobby: Mon - Fri - 9am to 5pm | Sat - 9am to 12pm
  Drive Up: Mon - Fri - 7am to 7pm | Sat - 8am to 12pm
  

Urbana

• Busey Bank, Urbana 217-365-4500
  201 W Main, Urbana, IL 61801 24-Hour ATM Available
  Lobby: Mon - Fri - 9am to 4pm
  Drive Up: Mon - Fri - 7:30am to 6pm
  Mini Bank: Mon - Fri - 7:30am to 6pm | Sat - 8am to 1pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, Urbana - Sunnycrest 217-367-6633
  1717 Philo Rd, Urbana, IL 61801 24-Hour ATM Available
  Drive Up: Mon - Fri - 8am to 4pm | Sat - 8am to 1pm
  Walk Up: Mon - Fri - 8am to 4pm | Sat - 8am to 1pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, Urbana - The Pines 217-365-4930
  2710 S Philo Rd, Urbana, IL 61802 24-Hour ATM Available
  Lobby: Mon - Fri - 9am to 5pm | Sat - 9am to 12pm
  Drive Up: Mon - Fri - 7:30am to 6:30pm | Sat - 7:30am to 1pm\
  
  

Other cities

• Busey Bank, Mahomet 217-586-4981
  312 E Main, Mahomet, IL 61853
  Lobby: Mon - Thur - 9am to 4pm | Fri - 9am to 5pm | Sat - 9am to 12pm
  Drive Up: Mon - Fri - 7am to 6pm | Sat - 7am to 1pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, Rantoul 217-892-2181
  200 E Sangamon, Rantoul, IL 61866
  Lobby: Mon - Fri - 9am to 4pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, Rantoul 217-892-4121
  1231 E Grove, Rantoul, IL 61866 24-Hour ATM Available
  Lobby: Mon - Fri - 9am to 5:30pm | Sat - 9am to 12pm
  Drive Up: Mon - Fri - 7:30am to 6pm | Sat - 7:30am to 12pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, Savoy 217-384-3424
  108 Arbours, Savoy, IL 61874 24-Hour ATM Available
  Lobby: Mon - Thur �8am to 5pm | Fri �8am to 5:30pm | Sat �8am to 12pm
  Drive Up: Mon - Thur �7:30am to 6pm | Fri �7:30am to 7pm | Sat �7:30am to 1pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, St. Joseph 217-469-7631
  104 N Main, St. Joseph, IL 61873 24-Hour ATM Available
  Lobby: Mon - Fri - 9am to 4pm | Sat - 9am to 12pm
  Drive Up: Mon - Fri - 7:30am to 6pm | Sat - 7:30am to 12pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, Thomasboro 217-643-7836
  101 Main St, Thomasboro, IL 61878
  Drive Up: Mon - Fri - 7:30am to 6pm | Sat - 7:30am to 12pm
  
  
• Busey Bank, Tolono 217-485-6021
  128 E Holden, Tolono, IL 61880
  Lobby: Mon - Thur - 9am to 4pm | Fri - 9am to 5pm | Sat - 9am to 12pm
  Drive Up: Mon - Thur - 9am to 5:30pm | Fri - 9am to 6pm | Sat - 9am to 12pm
  Walk Up: Mon - Thur - 4pm to 5:30pm | Fri - 5pm to 6pm
  

23. Dollar Stores in Champaign-Urbana

These days, the economy is not doing so good, and gas prices are rising sky high. To beat all these economy blues, many folks are re-discovering Dollar Stores.

Good old Dollar Stores are discount stores which sell many items for a dollar or a few dollars. Some of them are "pure" dollar stores, where everything is only a dollar. In good times, many people kept away from dollar stores as they associated it with shame, poverty, etc. But when you have to pay $4 for a gallon of gas, you can't be so choosy. And many items in Dollar stores are just as good as regular chains. Do note that, you shouldn't buy cosmetics, food, or toothpaste from Dollar stores, as often they carry cheap imported makeup, food, toothpaste that are not safe. But for things like paper plates, mugs, and many other small items, dollar store provides the best price.

There used to be a large number of Dollar stores in Champaign-Urbana, but unfortunately, in the recent years, many of them closed. Right now, only a few are left. Below is a list of the names and locations of the dollar stores of Champaign- Urbana, Savoy and other nearby places.

Dollar Tree
2009 N Prospect Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 351-3143

Dollar Tree
1333 Savoy Plaza Ln, Savoy, IL - (217) 352-4390

Dollar Tree Stores Inc
503 S Dunlap Ave, Savoy, IL - (217) 351-1852

Dollar General
2004 W Springfield Ave # B, Champaign, IL - (217) 351-3013

Dollar General
817 Bloomington Rd, Champaign, IL - (217) 355-6726

Family Dollar Store
1506 N Cunningham Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 367-4042


Dollar General Store
1506 N Cunningham Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 384-2269

Dollar General Store
2012 Philo Rd, Urbana, IL - (217) 337-0127


Dollar General
507 N Long St, Tolono, IL - (217) 485-5484


Deals-Nothing Over A Dollar
245 S Mattis Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 356-4036

Circle Of Deals - Everything $5 & Under
45 E. University Ave., Champaign, IL - (217) 359-1624

22. Ordering Pizza in Champaign Urbana

Do you have a sudden craving for a slice of Pizza? Here are some info that might help you. There are many places where you can get a pizza in Champaign Urbana area. Most of them have delivery services available for

Champaign

• Papa Del's Pizza E Green St, Champaign, IL -(217) 359-7700 206
  
  
• Papa John's Pizza 106 E Green St, Champaign, IL - (217) 355-5858
  
  
• Second Story Pizza 901 S 4th St, Champaign, IL (217) 239-2001
  
  
• Monical's Pizza W Kirby Ave, Champaign, IL . (217) 356-4243 103
  
  
• Domino's Pizza 102 E Green St, Champaign, IL - (217) 355-0717
  
  
• Gumby's Pizza 1409 S Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 355-3278
  
  
• Prime Time Pizza 505 E University Ave # B, Champaign, IL - (217) 355-9100
  
  
• Papa John's Pizza 2104 W Springfield Ave # A, Champaign, IL - (217) 351-7272
  
  
• Pizza Hut 411 E Green St, Champaign, IL - (217) 344-2218
  
  
• Garcia's Pizza In A Pan 108 E Green St, Champaign, IL - (217) 359-1212
  
  
• Heartland Pizza 1803 W Kirby Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 398-6800
  
  
• One World Pizza 508 E Green St, Champaign, IL - (217) 344-4000
  
  
• Village Inn Pizza Parlor 1801 W Springfield Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 359-1736
  
  
• Antonio's Pizza, 619 E Green St, Champaign, IL - (217) 365-9500
  
  
• Papa Murphy's Pizza: Champaign, 1753 W Kirby Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 356-8000
  
  
• Boston's Gourmet Pizza, 2501 N Prospect Ave, Champaign, IL - (217) 355-0005
  
  
• Pizzeria Uno 2000 N Neil St, Champaign, IL - (217) 398-4242
  
  
• Pizza Planet and Beyond 508 E Green St, Champaign, IL - (217) 344-0632

Urbana

• Rosati's Pizza 701 S Gregory St # H, Urbana, IL - (217) 328-2334
  
  
• Domino's Pizza 1108 N. Cunningham Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 328-6800
  
  
• Domino's Pizza 1106 S Vine St, Urbana, IL - (217) 384-6400
  
  
• Papa Murphy's Pizza 114 N Vine St # C, Urbana, IL - (217) 344-7700
  
  
• Papa John's Pizza 1307 E Florida Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 384-7272
  
  
• Monical's Pizza, 2720 South Philo Road, Urbana, IL 61802 (217) 367-5781
  
  
• Little Caesars Pizza 1901 Philo Rd # B, Urbana, IL - (217) 328-9360
  
  
• Manolo's Pizza & Empanadas 1115 W Oregon St, Urbana, IL - (217) 365-0110
  
  
• Sbarro 1401 W Green St, Urbana, IL - (217) 337-0100
  
  
• Casey's Carry Out Pizza 2108 E University Ave, Urbana, IL - (217) 328-0505
  
  
• Kraft Pizza 1502 Airport Rd, Urbana, IL - (217) 337-0328
  
  

21. (AM/FM) Radio Stations in Champaign Urbana

There are a number of Radio stations in Champaign Urbana. Most of them are FM, but there are also some AM radio stations. Among them WILL also offers Digital HD radio broadcast.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign operates WILL via the college of communications. Parkland College also has its own radio station.


Following is a list of AM and FM radio stations in and around Champaign Urbana.


AM Radio stations in Champaign Urbana

WILL 580 AM
300 N. Goodwin Avenue, Urbana
(217) 333-0850


WBCP 1580 AM
904 N. 4th Street, Urbana
(217) 359-1580

WDWS 1400 AM
2301 S Neil St., Champaign
(217) 351-5300


WKJR 1460 AM
Rantoul, IL
Spanish



FM Radio stations in Champaign-Urbana

WPCD 88.7 FM
Parkland College radio
2400 W.Bradley Avenue, Champaign
(217) 351-2450, alternate: (217) 373-3790


WGNJ 89.3 FM
Religious

WGNJ or WGNN P.O. Box 12345, Champaign
(217) 367-7777

WEFT 90.1 FM
Variety / World music

113 N. Market Street, Champaign
(217) 359-9338


WILL 90.9 FM
Classical

Campbell Hall for Public Telecommunication 300 N. Goodwin Ave., Urbana
(217) 333-0850, alternate: (217) 333-0853
WIXY 100.3 FM
603 West Bradley Avenue, Champaign
(217) 352-4141, alternate: (217) 355-3333

WBGL 91.7 FM
Christian Contemporary

2108 West Springfield Avenue, Champaign
(217) 359-8232, alternate: (217) 351-9245


WCFF 92.5 FM
Adult Hits
2603 West Bradley, Champaign
(217) 352-1256, alternate: (217) 355-9250

WEBX 93.5 FM
Alternative
4108 Fieldstone Road, Suite C, Champaign
(217) 367-1195, alternate: (217) 239-9350


WLRW 94.5 FM
Hot AC
2603 West Bradley Avenue, Champaign
(217) 352-4141, alternate: (217) 351-9494

WQQB 96.1 FM
Top-40
4108 Fieldstone Road, Suite C, Champaign
(217) 328-9600

WHMS 97.5 FM
Adult Contemporary
2301 South Neil Street, Champaign
(217) 351-5300


WWHP 98.3 FM
(309) 928-9876

WXTT 99.1 FM
80's Rock
2603 West Bradley, Champaign
(217) 352-4141

WHPO 100.9 FM
Hoopeston, IL
Country, Radio


WDNL 102.1 FM
Danville, IL
Hot AC,

WGNN 102.5 FM
Fisher, IL
Religious

WPXN 104.9 FM
Paxton, IL
Adult Contemporary

WGKC 105.9 FM
Classic Rock
4108 Fieldstone Road, Champaign
(217) 367-1195


WCZQ 105.5 FM
Monticello, IL
Hip Hop, Radio

WGKC 105.9 FM
Mahomet, IL
Classic Rock

WGCY 106.3 FM
Gibson City, IL
Easy Listening


WPGU 107.1 FM
Alternative
24 E Green St. Suite 107, Champaign
(217) 337-3100, alternate: (217) 337-1071

20. Ethnic Indian grocery in Champaign-Urbana : Annapoorna Stores

Image: courtesy of Annapoorna stores website

Besides the regular groceries, there are many ethnic grocery stores in Champaign - Urbana. But there is only one Indian grocery store in Chambana.

The Annapoorna stores is located in Champaign, 505 South Neil Street, Suite 11, Champaign, IL 61820 . It is right opposite to the Champaign Public Library, between Randolph and Neil, Healy and Green. (You can take the 5 Green bus or 25 loop to reach near it).

Store items/collection
The store contains a rich collection of Indian and South Asian groceries, spices, and many other food items. For example:

Frozen food: Both north and south Indian specialities, such as Paratha, Roti, Nan, Idli, Dosa, Uttappam. The ready to eat food section has specialities such as Dal, Bhendi Masala, Chole Chatpate, Pongal Rice, etc.

Frozen snacks: Khaman Dhokla, chili paneer, punjabi samosa, veg. spring roll, chicken samosas, chinese appetizers/meals.

Spices: Chili, cumin, garam masala, coriander, turmeric, spices, pickles, cinnamon, cardamom.

Food grain: Basmati rice, boiled rice, Sona masoori rice, dal / lentil, flour,

Fresh vegetables: The store brings fresh vegetables from Chicago every Friday. You can get fresh okra, green peppers, singa, radish (muli), mangoes, guavas etc.

Fresh sweets/snacks : The store brings fresh sweets like ladoos, jalebis, rasmalai, samosa, kachori, and mirchi pakora.

Meat - The store will take orders for poultry, and other kind of meat. It will bring those meat items from Chicago. Pick up can be made on Thursday evenings when their delivery van arrives from Chicago. (the store is closed at that time though, so you can only pick up the meat order at that time).

Video rentals: The store carries a rich collection of Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu, and other Indian language films/cinemas. VHS tapes/cassettes cost $1 to rent, and DVDs are $2. The store brings new releases almost every week.


The store takes Cash, Debit and Credit cards.

Store Hours

Mon - Wed : 11:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Fri - Sat : 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Sun : 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Closed on Thursday

19. Traditional Grocery shopping in Champaign - Urbana

When it comes to grocery shopping, Champaign - Urbana offers a lot of choices. Following is a list of places to do traditional grocery shopping in Champaign Urbana. (I'll write about ethnic grocery stores in a future post).


1. Walmart

Walmart: There are 3 Walmart Supercenter and 1 Sam's Club here. All supercenters are open 24 hours.

Walmart Supercenter

100 South High Cross Road

Urbana, IL 61802

(217) 344-6148

Wal-Mart Supercenter

2610 No Prospect Ave

Champaign, IL 61821

(217) 352-0700

Wal-Mart Supercenter

505 So. Dunlap Avenue

Savoy, IL 61874

(217) 355-5845

(there is also another supercenter in Rantoul, about 15 minutes away

Wal-Mart Supercenter

845 Broadmeadow Rd

Rantoul, IL 61866

(217) 892-9151)

Sam's Club
915 W Marketview Dr.
Champaign, IL 61821

(217)355-2223

--------

2. Meijer

There are 2 Meijer stores. One in Champaign, the other in Urbana will open in October 2008. Both open 24 hours.

Champaign/Urbana
2401 N Prospect Ave
Champaign, Illinois 61821
(217) 353-4000

The Urbana store is at the corner of Philo st and Windsor Avenue in SouthEast Urbana. This Urbana Meijer store will open in October 2008. The gas station has opened in August 2008.

UPDATE: The Meijer store has Opened as of October 1!!!

3. Aldi

ALDI Urbana, IL
3102 East University
Urbana, IL 61802

ALDI Champaign, IL
701 North Mattis
Champaign, IL 61821


(Hours:
Monday-Friday 9am - 8pm
Saturday 9am - 8pm
Sunday 11am - 6pm)

4. County Market - their food is very fresh. Especially, the produce and fruits are much better than other stores. All are open for 24 hours.


Champaign- Kirby Ave
2901 W. Kirby Ave
Champaign, IL 61821
217-351-8600

Champaign-Glenn Park Dr
1914 Glenn Park Dr
Champaign, IL 61821
217-356-8242


Urbana
1819 S. Philo Rd
Urbana, IL 61802
217-337-0210


Monticello
422 S. Market
Monticello, IL 61856
217-762-3161



5. Schnucks

306 E Main St 61802 217-328-5900 6am-11pm
200 N Vine St 61801 217-337-6016 24 Hours
1335 Woodfield Drive 61874 217-373-0706 6am-11pm
1301 Savoy Plaza Center 61874 217-373-0700 24 Hours
109 N. Mattis Rd 61821 217-351-2600 24 Hours
101 N Mattis Ave 61821 217-378-5901 6am-11pm

6. Save-A-Lot

220 N Broadway
Urbana, IL 61801
Phone:(217) 384-6885

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18. Important Phone Numbers in Champaign - Urbana

Here are some important phone numbers in Champaign Urbana.

• Ameren/IP (Electricity & Gas) 1-800-755-5000
• Assembly Hall Ticket Information 217-333-5000
• Campus Parking and Transportation 217-333-3530
• Campus Recreation 217-333-3513
• Champaign Public Library 217-403-2000
• Childcare Resource Service 217-333-3252
• Daniels Hall 217-333-0464
• Local Directory Assistance 411
• Domestic Violence Hotline 217-384-4390
• Family & Graduate Housing 217-333-5656
• Frances Nelson Health Center 217-356-1558
• Goodwin-Green Computer Center 217-332-3344
• Goodwin-Green Lounge 217-244-1725
• Goodwin-Green Office 217-333-8213
• Housing Facilities Maintenance 217-333-2779
• Illini Union 217-333-0170
• Information on Campus Activities 217-333-4666
• Insight Communications (Internet) 1-877-972-4100
• Int’l Student & Scholars Services 217-333-1303
• Learning Resource Center 217-265-0428
• Mass Transit District (MTD) 217-384-8188
• McKinley Health Center 217-333-2701
• McKinley Health Center Dial- A- Nurse 217-333-2700
• Mental Health Crisis Line 217-359-4141
• MultiCultural Health Center 217-265-6267
• Orchard Downs Community Center 217-333-6176
• Orchard Downs Computer Center 217-265-5607
• Orchard Downs Pre- School 217-333-3497
• Poison Control Center 1-800-942-5969
• Public Health District 352-7961
• Rape Crisis Hotline 217-355-5203
• Time, Weather, Temperature 217-351-2900
• UI Counseling Center 217-333-3704
• UI Faculty Staff Assistance 217-244-5312
• UI Student Legal Services 217-333-9053
• University Directory Assistance 217-333-1000
• University Police (Non-Emergency) 217-333-1216
• University SafePlace 217-840-2232
• Urbana Free Library 217-367-4057
• Urbana School District 217-384-3600
  

17. How to get Power/ Electricity in Champaign - Urbana

Electricity and Gas supply in Champaign Urbana area is served by AmerenIP.

How do I turn on service?

To get power in your apartment, you need to call them directly. Use This Link to find the contact information. The phone numbers are:

• Residential: 1-800.755.5000
• Business: 800.363.6805

Do I need to pay a deposit?

If you are a first time customer, or don't have a satisfactory credit history (or even, for International students, a credit history at all), you might need to provide a security deposit at first. But that's refundable. Read more about required deposits and refunds.

How do I pay my bill?

You can pay your bills in person by going to a pay station. These are located around Chambana area. You can find a list here.

Even better, you can pay the bill online for FREE, either via MyCheckfree, or via Ameren's site itself. See details here.

There are rarely any outages, except during tornado season :), and if you get unlucky, a fallen tree might cut down your power line, but that rarely happens. And these guys are pretty fast in restoring service, so nothing to worry.

When you leave, you can choose to turn off your service right from the AmerenIP website.


Useful links

• AmerenIP.com website.

16. Gone Fishing? How and where to go for fishing / hunting in Champaign Urbana

Do you enjoy fishing or hunting?

If you do, and want to pursue these hobbies/past-times in Champaign-Urbana, here are some tips/information that you might find useful.

License

If you are above the age of 16, then you will require a license to hunt or fish.

Prices are:

• Fishing license: $13
• Hunting licenses $7.50
• A combined license is $19.25

Senior citizens (aged above 65) can get a discount.

For hunting, you will also need to get a $5.50 habitat stamp. If you want to hunt deer and/or turkey during the hunting season, then you need to apply for that too, and pay a $15 fee.

Where do you get a license?

Licenses are available for purchase at Sporting goods stores ... I think you can buy them from even Walmart.

Or, you can go to the regional Department of Natural Resources office at 1556 State Route 54, Clinton, IL 61727. (8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday), call 217-935-6860.

Best areas to fish?

There are many lakes around Chambana. In town, we have Crystal Lake on Race and University. There is also the Homer lake near Homer, IL, about 15-20 minutes drive on I-74 East. Lake of the Woods is at Mahomet. Clinton lake is also nearby.

Anything else?

For boating, hunting, snowmobiling, and trapping, you will need to go to safety classes. More info can be found at the State DNR office website.

15. Sending Postal mail - finding a post office at Champaign - Urbana

Even though most people would now use email to send a message, from time to time, you'd have to find a snail mail post office to send or to receive things. So, let's find out the post offices at Champaign - Urbana / University of Illinois (UIUC).

The zip codes for most parts of the city of Champaign are either 61820, or 61821, or 61822.

For Urbana, the zip codes are 61801 or 61802.

Main Post Offices

Champaign:

2001 N. Mattis Ave., Champaign, IL

Last pickup: 8 pm

Mail leaves town at 10 pm daily.

So, if you want to have something sent out today, the latest time you can do at the main post office of Champaign is at 8 pm. The office closes at 6.30pm, so if you need to buy stamps, hurry before that time.

Mon-Fri: 07:30-06:30PM
Sat 08:00-03:00PM
Closed Sunday.

Phone: (800) ASK-USPS
Fax: (217) 373-6004

Urbana

The main post office used to be in downtown Urbana, but now it has moved to 3104 E. Tatman Court (off High cross road / route 130), right opposite to the Walmart Super Center.

Phone: (800) ASK-USPS
Fax: (217) 337-6435

Business Hours
Mon-Fri 08:00-06:30PM
Sat 09:00-03:00PM
Closed Sunday


Other Post office locations

Urbana

Downtown
202 S Broadway Ave
Urbana, IL 61801-3313

University
1409 W Green ST
Urbana, IL 61801-2900


Champaign

600 N Neil ST
Champaign, IL 61820-3607


Green Street:
302 E Green ST
Champaign, IL 61820-8199

Meijer
2401 N Prospect AVE
Champaign, IL 61822-123


Savoy
415 N Dunlap AVE
Savoy, IL 61874-9998

14. Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in Champaign - Urbana

The Department of Motor Vehicles in Champaign-Urbana is located at 2401 W Bradley Avenue, Champaign. If you need to get a drivers license, learner's permit, car registration etc. done, you can visit it during office hours.

It's pretty easy to find ... the DMV facility is right opposite to the Parkland College. Take Bradley towards the west. Once you cross Mattis, the DMV will be within a minutes drive, to your left.


Hours

• CLOSED on Sunday and Monday
• Tuesday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
  Wednesday to Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Road tests are available until sunset or 30 minutes prior to closing.

Payment

Cash, Check, and in some cases, Discover/AmEx/MasterCard Debit and Credit cards allowed. For a credit card, they will charge a $2 fee.

Tips

If you are there for a road test, consider arriving early. The queue gets quite long pretty early, and if you don't want a long wait, arrive early and sign up for the test.


Phone/Map:

Telephone: (217) 278-3344

Map

13. Thai Restaurants in Champaign Urbana

If you are craving for spicy Thai food, look no further. Champaign-Urbana has several good Thai restaurants. (not to mention other Asian places that have a Thai menu).


Siam Terrace

The best place is perhaps Siam Terrace in Race and Main in downtown Urbana. The place is nice, and seems to be crowded even during weekdays. The entrees are reasonably priced. We've been to Thai restaurants at NYC, DC and California, but somehow we felt that Siam Terrace is as good as, if not better than all fancy Thai restaurants in big cities.

There is ample parking available next to the restaurant, and also at a city parking lot 2 buildings to the west on Main. And if you are going there in the evening, then you can probably park at Busey Bank's parking lot across the street.

They also have a very cheap lunch menu during weekdays, so if you have time, visit them during lunch hours to get the delicious entrees for almost half the price.



View Larger Map

[Read ChampaignTaste's review]

Nitaya Thai

This is in Downtown Champaign, at the corner of Church and Neil. I think that, in terms of food quality, it is almost at the same league as Siam Terrace. The prices are similar. The only problem might be parking ... they have limited street parking available in front of them, though you might park at the corner. The service wasn't as good as Siam Terrace the time I went there, but may be you'll get a different experience there.

[Champaign-Taste's review]


View Larger Map


Thara Thai

This family-run thai restaurant is on Bloomington Road, right off Prospect (beside Econolodge). I am not sure if they have changed owners recently ... but the original owner was very nice. The food is also great. They do have a lot of free parking.

[Champaign-Taste's review]


View Larger Map


Others

Other Thai restaurants include

• Basil Thai Cafe (one on 5th and Green, Champaign, the other in 701 S Gregory St Urbana)
• Y Eatery, on 1001 Wright street (next to the main library of UofI)
• Home of Gourmet Chinese and Thai Restaurant, 604 E Daniel St, Champaign

Enjoy!!

12. Bikes, Bike repair shops, and Bike stores

Do you love riding bikes? Or, should I say, are you thinking about riding bikes now that gas has hit more than $4/gallon?

Chambana is a small enough to do everything riding your bike. The cities are hardly 10 miles in diameter, so one can easily commute to work on bike, or have a nice afternoon ride.


Where to get a bike?

The cheapest option to get a new bike is to go visit one of the mega stores such as Meijer on North Prospect, Champaign, (and coming up in South Philo, Urbana), Walmart on North Prospect, Champaign OR High Cross Road, Urbana, OR in Savoy. I think the local Target might also have bikes.

However, if you are looking for quality, go for one of the speciality bike stores in town. There is Durst Cycles on Goodwin and University Avenue in Urbana ([MAP]), (they also have a smaller branch on South Mattis, Champaign). The prices are higher, but you get better quality. There is Champaign Cycles on South Country Fair Dr. Champaign. Wild Thang Cycle is on Vine St, Urbana, and on Locust St, Champaign.

And if you are a do-it-yourself person, read below for an even cheaper and better way to get a bike.


How do I fix it?

Once you've bought a bike, eventually you will get a flat or need some other type of repairs. Durst Cycles and other bike stores will do repair and maintenance. Then there is BikeWorks on Main and Goodwin in Urbana (right next to Siebel Center). Though it seems to be open only in the afternoons, and run by a single guy (the owner), you can get a better tuneup, and occasionally get some advice on maintenance. (see below for a photo of BikeWorks store). There are also some home-based bike repair shops ... I did see one near the west side of the corner of Main and Lincoln on Urbana, and they also seemed pretty busy these days.


And then, there is the Champaign-Urbana Bike Project. This is a cooperative of bike enthusiasts, and they also sell old, refurbished and repaired bikes. But even better, you can get free bike fixing lessons from them, or borrow tools to do the repairs yourself on their workshop. They have a build a bike project, where you can pick an old bike and get spare parts, and then build your own bike -- all by yourself, while learning bike repair , at their workshop. Isn't that great??


Some links:

• Champaign Urbana Bicycle commute: a blog by a bike enthusiast from Chambana
• Bike sales are increasing in Chambana ... read this news report from the News-Gazette.
• Info on Bike routes.
  

11. U of I Alma Mater sculpture

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At the heart of University of Illinois stands the Alma Mater sculpture, giving a warm welcome to the students, and alumni. This statue is often used as a symbol of the University. Well, after the departure of the Chief Illiniwek symbol, I guess this will become more widely used to represent the school.

The statue is located at the corner of Wright and Green, right at the border of Champaign and Urbana. Almost every other day, a news van would be there, and some reporter talking about a UofI story will give a live report from there.

The statue shows three women, standing on a Granite pedestal. There are two inscriptions in the base of the statue, that read "To thy happy children of the future, those of the past send greetings" and "Her children arise up and call her Blessed" Proverbs 31-28.

The designer of the statue was Lorado Taft. The original idea of the statue was conceived in 1922. Those ideas and designs were materialized in 1929. At that time, the the American Art Bronze Foundry was commissioned to caste the bronze statue. The alumni fund and the classes of 1923-1929 paid for it.

The original location of the statue was behind Foelinger Auditorium. However, to move it to a more prominent location, the Alumni Association moved it to the current location on August 22, 1962.

The statue is featured in the new I-card of UofI.

[Info and image source: Wikipedia, used under CC/GFDL]

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