Senior Kareem Sayegh and sophomore Claire Liu were among six students who competed Saturday morning in the Poetry Out Loud regional contest at the Champaign Public Library. However, two students could not attend the competition and have been allowed to give their recitations on Thursday.

After losing to the Crusaders at Kenney Gym earlier this year, the Illineks were determined not to repeat that result. After a thrilling four quarters, Uni outshined Normal Calvary in overtime, winning 61-48. The Illineks now control their destiny, and they will clinch at least a share of the conference if they win their final three regular-season games.

In recent years, Uni has celebrated Black History Month with a luncheon and other special events. So far, however, nothing has been scheduled to mark this year's commemoration of African-American history. Check inside to learn more.

Have a poem or other creative work you want to share with an audience, but paper (or computer screen) just isn't enough? Come out to the North Attic from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday and take part in Open Mic Night, hosted by ADL Youth and PAC. Local poet Aaron Ammons from the SPEAK Café will also be there.