URBANA — This is the only full weekend of early voting in Champaign County, when registered voters are able to cast ballots on both Saturday and Sundays.

Eight early voting stations, most of which serve only particular precincts, will be open Saturday.

CHAMPAIGN — A progressive income tax in Illinois would have "dire economic consequences" for the state, said John Bambenek, the Republican candidate for the 52nd Illinois Senate District.

Bambenek is challenging state Sen. Mike Frerichs, D-Champaign, who has endorsed a move away from Illinois' 42-year-old flat rate income tax.

CHAMPAIGN — The current Champaign County clerk claimed he has "the best county clerk's office in the state of Illinois," while his opponent said "it's time to end the 70-year stranglehold that the local Republican Party has had on" the office.

The two, Republican Gordy Hulten and Democrat Charlie Smyth, tangled at a candidate forum Wednesday night at the Champaign City Building.

CHAMPAIGN — Although the Democratic candidate for county auditor said he has the academic credentials and professional background to hold the office, the Republican contender, citing a recent financial scandal involving the city treasurer in Dixon, said that being a watchdog is just as important.