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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 7, 2024

Contact
Bradon Meline, Director
217-531-4308 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tanya Giannotti, Public Relations
217-531-2925 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Revolutionizing Energy Efficiency: Cutting-Edge Solar Panels Installed Atop Champaign-Urbana Public Health District

Champaign-Urbana Public Health Embraces Sustainability Through Implementation of Solar Energy

CHAMPAIGN, IL – Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) is proud to announce a significant step forward in its commitment to environmental stewardship. With a steadfast focus on reducing energy costs and minimizing its carbon footprint, CUPHD has recently completed the installation of state-of-the-art photovoltaic panels atop the 99,000 square foot building. This implementation not only underscores the organization’s dedication to sustainability but also marks a substantial milestone in its efforts to embrace renewable energy solutions.

The panels, installed by StraightUp Solar in Champaign, are estimated to produce 412,800 kWh of energy in the first 12 months of operation, and produce 60% of the overall grid energy usage. Financial incentives provided to CUPHD will reduce the cost of the system by roughly 60% as well.

“C-U Public Health District recognized the financial and community health benefits of generating solar electricity more than 8 years ago,” states Vice President of Development at StraightUP Solar Shannon Fulton, “StraightUp Solar is grateful for the opportunity to partner with the District on their solar journey and commends their proactive approach to stabilizing their budget by controlling their energy costs.”

The adoption of solar panels by CUPHD represents a strategic shift towards cleaner and more sustainable energy production. Unlike traditional methods of electrical production, which often rely on fossil fuels and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, solar panels harness the power of sunlight, a renewable resource abundant in nature. “The methods we have historically used to produce electricity have great impacts to our health and environment. We are excited to see the C-U Public Health District 

adopt clean, renewable solar energy that will also save them money!” states Amanda Pankau, director of energy and community resiliency at Prairie Rivers Network.

With a clear dedication to reducing energy costs, minimizing its environmental impact, and maximizing its long-term financial viability, CUPHD exemplifies the transformative power of renewable energy solutions. Through its commitment to solar energy, CUPHD reaffirms its position as a responsible steward of both the environment and its stakeholders, embodying a vision of a brighter, greener future for all.

“This is a momentous occasion for our health department and the entire community. By embracing solar energy, we’re not only reducing our environmental impact but also setting a precedent for sustainable practices in public health institutions,” states CUPHD Administrator Julie Pryde.

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Download 2024-02-07-solar-panels-PR

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 29, 2024

Contact
Tanya Giannotti, Public Relations
(217) 531-2925 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Hannah Yasunaga, Illini District Dental Society
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Free Dental Exams and Cleanings for Children on Saturday, February 10, at Parkland College

The Illini District Dental Society, Champaign-Urbana Public Health District, and Parkland College Dental Hygiene Clinic Participate in Give Kids A Smile® Day

CHAMPAIGN, IL – The Illini District Dental Society will sponsor Give Kids A Smile® (GKAS) Day on Saturday, February 10, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Parkland College Dental Hygiene Clinic located at 2400 W. Bradley in Champaign. The event is part of the Children’s Dental Access Program through the American Dental Association® (ADA), which provides free oral healthcare services to children of low-income families.

On February 10, local dentists and hygienists are taking the opportunity to give back to the community by volunteering time and services for GKAS. Free dental exams, cleanings, and fluoride treatments will be provided as needed to any child aged one to 17. The oral health fair will also offer a wide range of educational activities including dental hygiene education, free toothbrushes, and visits and pictures with the Tooth Fairy. No appointment is necessary; however, a parent or legal guardian must accompany the child. There are no income or residency requirements to receive services at the fair.

The Give Kids a Smile® (GKAS) program, launched nationally in 2003 by the American Dental Association, provides underserved children with free oral health care. Each year approximately 6,500 dentists and 30,000 dental team members volunteer at local GKAS events to provide free oral health education, screenings, preventive and restorative treatment to over 300,000 children across the United States.

Give Kids A Smile® Day is sponsored by the Illini District Dental Society in partnership with the Parkland College Dental Hygiene program and the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District.

Individuals interested in this special event can contact the Parkland College Dental Hygiene Program Director, Laura Hettinger, at (217) 351-2386 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

For more information on Give Kids A Smile®, visit https://www.adafoundation.org/give-kids-a-smile.

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Download 2024-01-29-give-kids-a-smile-PR (English)
Download 2024-01-29-give-kids-a-smile-es-PR (Spanish)
Download 2024-01-29-give-kids-a-smile-fr-PR (French)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 22, 2024

Contact
Julie Pryde, Administrator
217-531-5369 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tanya Giannotti, Public Relations
217-531-2925 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 

Champaign-Urbana Public Health District Closed Due to Weather Conditions

Adverse Weather Forces Office Closures: Prioritizing Safety Amid Icy Road Conditions

CHAMPAIGN, IL – The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District will be closed today, January 22, due to inclement weather conditions. This includes the following locations:

  • 201 W. Kenyon Road in Champaign

  • 520 E. Wabash in Rantoul

    Services will resume Tuesday, January 23, at 8:00 a.m. For the latest updates and information, visit www.c-uphd.org.

     

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Download 2024-01-22-weather-closure-PR