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Articles by Felicity Abbott
Quantum research lab teeters on bleeding edge of new technology
For some, quantum is just one of those words thrown around because it sounds smart — and no one actually knows what it means, right? Wrong. Quantum research is advancing not only at the University but also at the state level through partnerships with other universities and research labs.
Driver dead after crash in Hillside, Illinois
Two cars were involved in a deadly crash in Hillside, Illinois, early Thursday morning. The crash happened at the intersection of Manheim Road and Washington, which officials say will be closed for several hours. Hillside police said a car rolled over as it hit another car that was turning. Police said the driver died. They have not been identified by officials. The cause of the crash is under investigation by the Hillside Police Department.
How Chicago Health Department is protecting against West Nile virus
The Chicago Department of Public Health is taking steps to prevent West Nile virus in the area. Health officials said they are spraying a chemical used to control mosquitoes in outdoor residential and recreational areas, specifically in the Pullman and South Deering neighborhoods and near O'Hare Airport. Spraying will take place from dusk on Wednesday and Thursday until around 1 a.m. This is just one of the ways CDPH aims to control West Nile virus in the city.
Cradles to Crayons "Backpack-A-Thon" supporting children across Chicago area
The annual Cradles to Crayons Backpack-A-Thon is back and looking to support Chicago area children from head-to-toe. On Wednesday morning, over 700 volunteers lined up to pack over 36,000 backpacks in the Wintrust Arena. Backpacks were filled with school supplies, clothes, shoes and other essentials for children experiencing clothing insecurity. After the event, Amazon trucks will distribute the backpacks across Chicagoland with Chicago Public Schools as the primary recipient.
Precautionary boil water advisory issued for East Chicago, Indiana, starting Monday
East Chicago, Indiana is being placed on a precautionary boil water advisory starting Monday morning for planned installations that could affect water safety. Starting Monday, July 27 at 9 a.m. residents in the area of 4700-4800 Olcott Avenue are being advised to boil their water for at least five minutes before cooking, food preparation, drinking or making ice.
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry decks the halls for Christmas in July
Christmas came early this year for Chicago's Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. From Thursday to Sunday, the museum will deck its halls and host a variety of holiday activities. Visitors can take holiday photos, watch a liquid nitrogen live science show, buy holiday cookies or browse Christmas ornaments in the gift shop. The museum's rotunda will also give a sneak peek at what this year's Christmas exhibit ahead of its Nov. 7 opening.
"Seinfeld" actor Jason Alexander taking over Chicago Shakespeare Theater to tell all
"Seinfeld" actor Jason Alexander takes the stage at Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Thursday and Friday. "As Long As You're Asking: A Conversation with Jason Alexander" will feature comedy, a musical performance, and a discussion with Alexander himself. The beloved actor comes to Chicago after a decorated career as an actor, writer, composer, director and producer.
"Seinfeld" actor Jason Alexander taking over Chicago Shakespeare Theater to tell all
4 hours ago The “Seinfeld” star didn’t mention the president by name, but defended Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel in a scorching monologue about art and free speech. “Seinfeld” star Julia Louis-Dreyfus warns President Donald Trump could take his crackdown on critics even further, arguing during the latest …
"Jack and Jill of America" inspiring youth advocacy
A local organization is working to support Black mothers and children, and its work dates back decades. "Jack and Jill of America" started back in 1938 and has been offering services ever since. The organization works to provide educational opportunities for children with the hopes of inspiring interest in self-advocacy. Programs are designed for kids aged from 2 to 19 years old to develop their leadership skills, philanthropic giving and civic duty.
"The Simple Good" empowers Chicago youth through art program
Priya Shah was born without a left hand, but what she first described as an "oppression" towards her aspirations, quickly transformed into inspiration. As she traveled the world, she witnessed resilient communities that were able to still find good in the world even after their hardships. She wanted to provide this same connection for others, and "The Simple Good" was created. "The Simple Good" is a Chicago nonprofit that supports young people and their mental health through art programming.
Bruce Willis' wife Emma launches into women's wellness advocacy
After Bruce Willis was diagnosed with dementia, his wife Emma Heming Willis found a new purpose as a health advocate. In 2023, Bruce Willis was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, and since then, Heming Willis has taken on the role of his caregiver. In this position, she realized how difficult it was to cope with having very little time for herself. That same year, she launched "Make Time Wellness," a brand focused on women's wellness.
Juneteenth 2026 events in Chicago area: Where to celebrate the federal holiday this year
If you want to celebrate Juneteenth 2026 in the Chicago area, you've got plenty of choices. Events to mark the federal holiday are being held Thursday and through the weekend. Millennium Park, Chicago The Millennium Park Summer Music Series features a free Juneteenth celebration with performances from D-Composed and Kahil El'Zabar's Ethnic Heritage Ensemble.
Childhood dream transforms into theatre education program in Chicago suburbs
While most childhood passions don't make it out of the backyard, one has blossomed for 25 years into a nationally recognized company. was founded in 2001 by three middle schoolers and offers theatre education programs year-round. Melanie Lamoureux, BAM founder and artistic director, said the company started by gathering neighborhood kids one summer. "It was kind of a spontaneous endeavor," Lamoureux told CBS News Chicago.
James Beard Awards to honor best in America's food industry at Lyric Opera
The James Beard Awards will be taking over the Lyric Opera of Chicago on Monday evening The awards recognize excellence in America's food and restaurant industry. The James Beard Foundation Award was established in 1990, and first awarded the following year. The award ceremony was first held in Chicago in 2015, and the city will host the awards through 2028, according to the city's tourism marketing organization. Three Chicago chefs have been nominated for awards this year.
People of Play pushes children to be creative as they invent toys and games
Every year, People of Play, a division of The Toy Association, puts on an international competition that pushes children to utilize their creativity for innovation. Participants get to pitch game ideas to industry experts while also receiving mentorship.
2027 Pokémon North America International Championships to be held in Chicago
The 2027 Pokémon North America International Championships are set to take place in Chicago, organizers announced over the weekend. Organizers say the event will be held at McCormick Place. The competition has been held in New Orleans for the last three years, but is making the move because of how big the event has grown. While this is the first time Chicago will host this championship, it is not the first Pokémon event to take over the streets of Chicago.
Best of CU ’26 | Best Bakery: BakeLab Pâtisserie and Café
Baking up Champaign-Urbana’s favorite flaky fantasies is BakeLab Pâtisserie and Café. Located just on the outskirts of campus, BakeLab draws in students and community members alike. In addition to their extensive drink menu, BakeLab offers a wide variety of unique baked goods sure to please everyone. BakeLab takes the concept of a traditional croissant and absolutely runs with it. Their menu features a wide variety of croissants, including traditional, almond, ham and cheese and caprese.
Best of CU ’26 | Best Indian Food: The Himalayan Chimney
Who said you have to leave Champaign-Urbana to travel the world? The Himalayan Chimney transports international flavors right to our small part of Illinois. Sitting unassumingly in downtown Champaign, The Himalayan Chimney is one of the Best Indian Food options C-U has to offer. With an extensive menu, experienced Indian cuisine connoisseurs and newbies alike are guaranteed to find something to enjoy. When analyzing the menu at a glance, the first item a diner should select is from the naan list.
Skateboarding Illini skates to the beat of its own drum
Categories: For many people, skateboarding is simply a pastime. For the Skateboarding Illini, it’s so much more. “It was probably the one, the first social space that I was in that I felt comfortable enough just being myself,” said Jake Simon, junior in LAS and president and co-founder of the RSO.
A nutty narrative: UI alum behind the NUTmobile
When thinking about a post-graduate job, most people don’t envision driving around a 26-foot peanut. While for some this might sound like fantasy, this is Hudson Ritchie’s reality. As one of this year’s three Planters Peanutters, Ritchie has spent the last eight months driving coast to coast in the company’s signature NUTmobile. “I had no idea that I’d be driving the giant peanut or working for Planters,” Ritchie said. “I didn’t really know what I wanted to do.
For some University students, summer break means getting out of Champaign-Urbana as fast as possible. However, other students find themselves suffering through the corn-sweat-ridden months of June and July in C-U. To make this transition time easier for students, the University offers summer break housing in Daniels Hall.
Carmen Giménez’s poetry jump-starts PYGMALION
Chatter filled the lobby of Krannert Center for the Performing Arts as New York-born poet Carmen Giménez took the stage Thursday, starting a weekend of arts for PYGMALION 2025. Giménez’s performance featured readings from many of her published works, as well as some newer pieces she is still writing.
Memorial Stadium boosts concession offerings
Just ahead of the Illini’s football season, Illini Athletics announced its plans to improve and enhance concession options on gameday. The organization points out that for attendees, these upgrades will “enhance the quality, variety, and convenience of concessions available within steps of their seats.” Additions include new Illini Markets, a grab-and-go convenience concept, in both the northwest part of the Great West Hall and the southeast corner of the Great East Hall.
Champaign Police increasing traffic patrol before Labor Day
As Labor Day quickly approaches, the Champaign Police Department is joining forces with the Illinois Department of Transportation, state police and other local law enforcement organizations to increase driving enforcement. From Aug. 15 to Sept. 2, law enforcement plans to increase patrols that will specifically focus on impaired driving and traffic violations. CPD will also be looking for distracted driving, lack of seatbelts and other road violations.
FINNEAS dazzles as an independent act
Returning to Lollapalooza for the third time was FINNEAS — however, this was his first time under his own name, a moment that signals how far he has come in his career. FINNEAS got his start in the music industry by helping his sister, Billie Eilish, produce her debut album and hit “Ocean Eyes.” Since then, he has established himself as an artist independent of Eilish, and his appearance at the festival exemplifies this. “Thanks so much for being here, thanks so much for showing up,” FINNEAS said.
Review | Dominic Fike delivers frazzled, confusing Lollapalooza performance
Many artists experience stage fright, but Dominic Fike confessed he was particularly nervous ahead of his Lollapalooza appearance, having not in about three years. By listening to his songs alone, festivalgoers would be none the wiser to Fike’s fretting. Fike opened strongly with “Westcoast Collective,” a song off his 2018 album “Don’t Forget About Me, Demos.” “It’s been a while since I’ve performed any music,” Fike said.
Sabrina Carpenter delivers exhilarating performance to close Lollapalooza
Pop icon Sabrina Carpenter was the last, but certainly not least, artist to headline the T-Mobile stage at Lollapalooza 2025. She put on quite a performance with an elaborate set, an outfit change, a clear theme, and, of course, her exemplary vocal styling. The first view festivalgoers had of Carpenter was a prerecorded video that played as if she were a retro nightly news anchor. “We’re back reporting live from Chicago,” Carpenter said in the video.
Nimino injects house music into Lollapalooza lineup
A video of an anime-style cartoon bike riding took over the screens of Perry’s stage on the final day of Lollapalooza — an unusually peaceful atmosphere for the typically intensely EDM venue. As artist Nimino’s name appeared on the screen, the small but mighty crowd let out whoops and hollers, demonstrating excitement for the upcoming set.
RÜFÜS DU SOL delivers an EDM experience like no other
No, that’s not a spaceship getting ready for takeoff, that’s RÜFÜS DU SOL’s Lollapalooza performance. RÜFÜS DU SOL is made up of Tyrone Lindqvist, Jon George and James Hunt, who combine talents to put out high-quality electronic dance music for a wide audience. Before a single lyric was sung, the group built anticipation by gradually increasing the intensity of an electronic background track and adding in more and more strobing lasers until the audience’s energy was piqued.
Naomi Scott establishes music career at Lollapalooza
Singer and actor Naomi Scott took the Grove stage, delivering mellow and grooving tunes for the third day of Lollapalooza. Scott’s set was highly anticipated on social media, fueled when she posted a sneak peek of her set list. “Bloody hell, Lollapalooza!” Scott shouted. “I thought I was gonna have like five people.” The U.K.-born performer drew in quite the crowd, especially for her limited discography.
‘Princess of Power,’ MARINA, dominates Lollapalooza performance
MARINA, formerly known as Marina and the Diamonds, strutted onto T-Mobile stage to a cacophony of cheers. The Welsh singer opened with “Venus Fly Trap,” establishing her command of the stage and the audience early on in her performance. Following up with “Froot,” MARINA successfully grabbed the attention of festivalgoers who had gathered around the base of the stage.
Clairo demonstrates the beauty in performance simplicity
As audiences watch a black and white screen of a group of friends sitting and sipping on wine, they may forget for a moment that they are currently in attendance of Chicago’s most famous music festival. However, as soon as the floating vocals and swinging drum beat start up, they are transported back to the Bud Light stage watching Clairo perform “Second Nature.” “You have no idea how much it took for us to get here today,” Clairo said.
Djo’s Lollapalooza set exudes Chicago nostalgia
Djo, an indie band fronted by Joe Keery — most famous for his role as Steve in “Stranger Things” — had a vice-like grip on the T-Mobile crowd on the second day of Lollapalooza. Before Keery even sang a word, the audience’s anticipation was palpable as the band’s intro trailed on. As Djo began his performance, his passion for the city and the audience was evident. “What’s up, Chicago?” Keery said.
Lollapalooza Day 2 Recap
As the sun rose on the second day of Chicago’s most popular music festival, so did anticipation for the day’s acts. Large crowds flocked to Bud Light and T-Mobile stages to see Korn and Olivia Rodrigo, respectively. Other artists drawing in listeners were Gigi Perez, Del Water Gap, The Dare and Bleachers. Murda Beatz pumped up festivalgoers with his familiar, yet exciting set at 2:20 p.m. on Perry’s stage. He blended well-known rap songs with popular rock to leave the crowd feeling satisfied.
Olivia Rodrigo solidifies rebrand with headlining set
As one of Friday’s Lollapalooza headliners, Olivia Rodrigo’s set was much anticipated, but as the minutes ticked past her original start time, the crowd became more and more antsy. An hour before her start, festivalgoers were instructed to take several steps back to give those at the barricade space to breathe. Even with this instruction, the audience was tightly packed and humming with the chance to see Rodrigo with their own eyes.
T-Pain forges candid audience connection at Lollapalooza
Walking by the Bud Light stage at 4:30 p.m., one might have thought Chicago was experiencing an earthquake — but instead it was T-Pain delivering a heart-thumping performance. He opened his set with “Think It’s A Game,” establishing his performance’s theme of video games. He carried out this motif with video games on the screens, an elaborate set design and even more intricate neon outfits.
Murda Beatz invigorates crowd on Lollapalooza day 2
Murda Beatz demonstrated his finesse as a DJ and producer on Perry’s stage on the second day of Lollapalooza. Beatz opened his set by screaming, “I need to see some f— hands in the air right now.” From then on, he maintained high energy throughout his performance through balanced utilization of the technology available to him. The stage’s lights were incorporated at all of the right moments, adding emphasis to well-timed beat drops.
Lollapalooza 2025 Day 1 Recap
Starting off on a strong note, Lollapalooza 2025 opened with clear skies, 70 degree weather and a sense of anticipation in the air. Tyler, The Creator and Luke Combs took to T-Mobile and Bud Light stages, respectively, as the day’s headliners, leaving it all on the table with highly engaging sets. Other performances included Dom Dolla, Gracie Abrams, Xdinary Heroes, Cage the Elephant and Role Model.
Luke Combs sets expectations high as Lollapalooza’s first country headliner
Last seen at Lollapalooza in 2018, Luke Combs has made great strides as an artist, evident by his engaging performance as the festival’s very first country headliner. “Six years ago I played at 1 o’clock in the afternoon on that stage right over there (Tito’s),” Combs said. “I remember looking over here and thinking ‘Man, no way.’ S— here we are, baby.
Review | Gracie Abrams’ falls flat with Lollapalooza set
Indie-pop singer/songwriter Gracie Abrams made her way to Chicago as an interlude from her “The Secret of Us Deluxe Tour,” and as the clock ticked closer to 7:00 p.m. at the T-Mobile stage, the crowd’s anticipation became palpable. Audience members started to chant her name and jumped up and down, trying to catch a glimpse of the star. Abrams flaunted on stage in her trademark “cool girl” style — a rouse that quickly grew old.
Silly Goose lead vocalist chronologizes establishment in niche genre
Not many bands can claim to combine rap, rock, nu-metal and hip hop successfully, but Silly Goose does just that. Lead vocalist Jackson Foster shared that its niche was developed based on his interest in rapping over a heavy metal band. Silly Goose is a culmination of Foster chasing his dreams and creating his ideal performance atmosphere. Performing at Lollapalooza was a pinnacle of his journey with the band, but it is by no means a stopping point.
The Daily Illini
Lollapalooza festivalgoers may have stumbled upon the Bud Light stage at 4:45 p.m.; however, their actual journey spanned many years and miles. Sierra Ferrell brought more than a taste — more like a five-course meal — of historically rooted Appalachian folk to Chicago. Ferrell brought a unique sound to the Bud Light stage, incorporating banjos, electric guitars and fiddles with her clear voice.
‘I rock my own style,’ Jade LeMac shares her individuality
Hailing from Canada, singer/songwriter Jade LeMac has been singing and writing music since she was 12. Her career launched in 2020 with the rise of TikTok, and LeMac hasn’t looked back since. Now 21, she performed at Lollapalooza — a music festival known around the globe. The Daily Illini sat down with LeMac to learn more about her musical journey and what challenges she’s overcome to get to where she stands today. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Bielema sparks new military appreciation campaign
Categories: Illinois football head coach Bret Bielema hopes to fill Memorial Stadium with military personnel this fall. On Nov. 15, Illinois will recognize veterans, active-duty military and their families with a Military Appreciation Day initiative. For this specific game, fans are encouraged to purchase special $20 tickets. For each special ticket purchased, Bielema will donate a ticket to military heroes and their families.
Uni High selects new principal, director
Categories: University Laboratory High School has chosen Robert Fitzgerald as its next director and principal. He is currently pending approval from the University of Illinois Board of Trustees and will serve as interim director for education from July 1 to 25. Before coming to the University, Fitzgerald served as the assistant principal at Thomas Metcalf Laboratory School in Normal, Illinois, for two years. Prior to this role, he held various positions over 20 years at Thomas Metcalf.
UI’s No Comment discovers success outside of the box
No Comment, a University student a capella group, took the cake at Reser’s Fine Food’s 75th anniversary jingle competition. Of the four winning college a cappella groups, No Comment placed second and won $15,000 for their success.
Memorial Stadium stepping up its game with upgrades
Categories: After celebrating its 100th anniversary, Memorial Stadium is getting a facelift. The University recently announced that, over the next two years, the well-loved stadium will receive several improvements. “The upcoming Memorial Stadium projects are a key step in our commitment to providing one of the best college football experiences in the nation,” said Director of Athletics Josh Whitman in a statement. The first of these changes is wireless internet.
Events across CU spark Fourth of July spirit
In the next week, cities across America will be gearing up for the celebration of the nation’s birthday and Champaign-Urbana is no exception. Festivities begin on July 2, when the Urbana Free Library will host a “Gussy Up Your Bike!” event for children. Participants can bring their bike, stroller, wagon or scooter to the library’s Cherry Alley walkway from 6 to 6:45 p.m. and decorate them for the upcoming holiday.
Behind the market: Leeyah-Symone’s Lemonade Stand fuses flavor, community
Categories: A hidden gem sits between rows of vendors at Urbana’s Market at the Square. Leeyah-Symone’s Lemonade Stand is a family-owned business offering a sweet sanctuary for all marketgoers. The stand offers various lemonade flavors, including classic lemonade, pink, cucumber, apple-pineapple and banana. Jeshona and Bennie Drake started this business in 2022 as a way to bounce back after the pandemic.
CU organization encourages reflection over Fourth of July weekend
The Summer of Solidarity coalition offers an alternative way for community members to spend their Fourth of July weekend. Three panels will take place over the holiday weekend, each aiming to highlight the history of organizing in Champaign-Urbana. Local artists kick off the weekend with a “‘Art is the great democrat’: Local artists visioning community” panel.
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