Topic: Champaign

Roger Ebert dies, leaves legacy as groundbreaking movie critic (+video)

Roger Ebert dies: He started as the film critic for the Chicago Sun-Times in 1967. Roger Ebert won a Pulitzer Prize for criticism, the first movie reviewer to do so.

Ang Lee's 'Life of Pi' Oscar win thrills Taiwanese

Ang Lee's victory at Hollywood's annual Oscar extravaganza on Sunday for the fantasy epic "Life of Pi" followed his 2005 win for "Brokeback Mountain."

Focus Dorner case legacy: rekindled distrust, resentment of police

When ex-cop Christopher Dorner pursued his fatal vendetta against Los Angeles Police Department, his cause resonated with some in the black community. Why has the old rift between police and minorities been so hard to heal?

Can India sweep up its 'soot' pollution challenge?

India is among the biggest emitters of black carbon, from the use of coal and wood for cooking and heating and from a rising number of cars on the road.

Experts: Trained police needed for school security

The National Rifle Association wants armed volunteers in all US schools. But school safety experts and school board members say there's a huge difference between a trained law enforcement officer who becomes part of the school family — and a guard with a gun.

Federal court strikes down Illinois concealed carry ban

The 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said state lawmakers have 180 days to write a new law that legalizesconcealed carry.

Why recall target Gov. Scott Walker is taking his message to Illinois

Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker is facing a recall, but he still found time to visit Springfield, Ill., Tuesday to take on one of his favorite targets: Illinois' $8 billion budget deficit.  

Illinois train explosion: How safe are ethanol tankers?

A freight train that derailed and exploded Friday in Illinois was carrying ethanol. Though rail transport of ethanol has increased dramatically, accidents involving hazardous materials are down.

Project Gutenberg founder Michael Stern Hart: an e-book visionary

Hart was a college student in 1971 when he first glimpsed the potential of the e-book.

NFL in 'chaos' after lockout ruling. What happens now?

A federal judge's ruling to lift the lockout prompted a flurry of legal action and lots of confusion as players reported to empty practice facilities Tuesday. What it means for NFL football could become clearer in the days ahead, but for now, the league is in 'uncharted territory.'

Small is big: a cellphone chip that allows monthly battery charge

When small is big: Tinier chips demand less energy and could produce a cellphone that needs a battery charge only once a month.

Wisconsin labor unrest spills across Lake Michigan

The AFL-CIO is planning a protest Tuesday in Lansing, Michigan. This follows ongoing labor unrest in Wisconsin and Ohio over plans to reform public sector collective bargaining rules.

Wisconsin protests: why 'week of rage' matters to rest of America

Wisconsin protests at the state Capitol pit a new wave of tea party-inspired Republicans against Democrats defending their most cherished ideals. It's a political drama that echoes across the country and could play out again across the newly 'red' Midwest.

Tough year ahead for charities

While many firms are emerging from recession, nonprofits say 2011 could be worse than 2010.

Off the Grid

Off-the-grid expert Nick Rosen offers a portrait of some of the Americans who have opted for freedom from the utility grid.

Difference Maker Helping young people champion religious tolerance

Eboo Patel founded the Interfaith Youth Core as a way for young people to better understand and defend religious diversity.

The Power of Half

A well-to-do American family downsizes and gives almost a million dollars to charity.

Admissions scandal brings down University of Illinois president

B. Joseph White set to resign over system of preferences for politically connected applicants.

Friends Like These

Not content with Facebook, a writer travels the globe to catch up with 12 childhood pals.

For more hard-pressed Americans, a campsite is home

Camp grounds and tent cities become permanent addresses.

Job hunting? This week's unusual openings.

Eureka! Real science breaks into TV shows

Once ignored or abused to spice up plots, bona fide study now fills prime-time lineups.

Senate rejects Burris, but law may be on his side

The would-be senator from Illinois, named by a tainted governor, vows to fight on.

Long-forgotten old-time music finds new audience

Roots music from the early 20th century is experiencing a mini-revival with a series of new CD releases.