Springfield
Sunrise
Thursday, February 5th, 2026
Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 5th of February.
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The state is accepting applications for $24 million in grants that will fund six manufacturing training academies at community colleges outside Cook and collar counties. The bidding process began earlier this month to build a skilled workforce and support high-demand manufacturing jobs + advanced training. WYMG
- ➤ Child care provider Pamela Franks in Springfield, who has run a home-based service for over 30 years, said a federal funding freeze ending Feb. 6 may force her to cut services, deepening the local shortage and risking support for families reliant on CCAP (Child Care Assistance Program). 25 News
- ➤ Lincoln Land Community College named Dr. Curt Oldfield its next president and he will begin his duties on July 1 replacing Dr. Charlotte Warren who will retire after 20 years. Oldfield led Spoon River College as president for nearly 14 years. WMAY
- ➤ Illinois is offering $24 million in grant funding for six manufacturing training academies at downstate community colleges, with applications open this month for awards ranging from $3 million to $6 million. The initiative is part of a bipartisan effort to build a skilled workforce for the manufacturing sector. WYMG
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Alderwoman Erin Conley praised the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance for easing tensions at Tuesday, Feb. 3 council meeting — the council approved a $250K contract to boost the group's outreach to east side minority business owners. WYMG
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Governor JB Pritzker announced that Illinois will join the WHO’s Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) to get alerts, research, and training for fast action during outbreaks. The state’s decision follows the federal government’s withdrawal and boosts local preparedness for public health emergencies. WYMG
- ➤ Community doulas Sarah Grigiski and Daisia Toney, funded through Healthy Families America, provide prenatal visits and hospital birth support to expecting mothers in Sangamon and Menard Counties—helping moms feel confident and informed before and after delivery. ABC 20
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Actor Thomas Ian Nicholas, known for Rookie of the Year, will pitch for the Cubs and perform with his band at Lucky Horseshoes’ Legends Classic on June 20 at Robin Roberts Stadium — joining MLB legends including former Cardinals pitcher Jason Isringhausen. Tickets are available online. WYMG
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Super Bowl LX Celebration
5-10 p.m. — 5th Street GEM — In person — Enjoy an evening of football, snacks, and good vibes at the Super Bowl LX Party.
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Foster Parent Information Session
6-7:30 p.m. — Monical's Pizza — Free entry — Discover how you can make a difference in a child's life by exploring foster parenting in a supportive environment.
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Snow Tulips Paint Night with Ashley Blake
2-4 p.m. — Harvest Market — No cost mentioned — Enjoy a relaxed afternoon painting a winter scene of snow-covered tulips with guided instruction.
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Stay & Play
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Lincoln Library — Free — Enjoy engaging activities and themed stations for toddlers and children every Thursday morning in February.
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Stained Glass Hearts Crafting
3-4 p.m. — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Create beautiful stained glass hearts and other shapes in this fun craft program for children.
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Illinois Product Expo 2026
10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Orr Building — $10 for wine tasting — Explore local flavors and indulge in wine from 14 Illinois wineries.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Springfield Sunrise
Welcome to the Springfield Sunrise, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Springfield, Illinois community. If you like the Springfield Sunrise, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Springfield.
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