Good morning, Springfield.

Illinois State Police confirmed that Chatham driver Marianne Akers tested negative for drugs and alcohol — officials are investigating if a medical emergency caused the fatal crash that killed four at an after-school program and injured six children.

Tanner's Orchard is busy this spring as the team finishes pruning, sprays fungicide, and plants sweet corn to prepare for a July 28 opening and apple picking in August.

Co-owner Craig Tanner said windy days make it hard to spray pesticides (the orchard cares for 11,000 trees and 17 apple varieties).

A Springfield man pleaded guilty to a string of vehicle burglaries in hotel parking lots along Dirksen Parkway and will serve 11 years in state prison—authorities suspect he was involved in over 100 burglaries in 2024 in areas including Jacksonville, Decatur and Sangamon County.

Advocates and university officials urged continued funding for a free Kaplan test prep program that since late February enrolled over 2,200 University of Illinois students and nearly 500 Southern Illinois students, saving almost $6 million (Chancellor Janet Gooch reported).

Graduate student Nick Marquez said the program gave him the tools needed to pursue law school and compete fairly.

Mayor Misty Buscher recommended that Assistant Fire Chief Nicholas Zummo become Fire Chief and Assistant Police Chief Joseph Behl become Police Chief in Springfield—both changes await City Council approval.

She also will promote Captain Julie Plunk to Assistant Fire Chief and Commander Ryan Leach to Assistant Police Chief pending further review.

The Illinois Senate passed a bill to ban the sale of Styrofoam food packaging by 2030, while companies can still make styrene products for sale out of state.

Some lawmakers warned the plan might hurt small local businesses — Senate President Don Harmon said the phased approach could drive new product development.

Starting Monday, Converse Avenue will be closed between 11th Street and Carolina Avenue for CWLP’s new six-inch water main installation.

The project is expected to last several days and may be rescheduled if inclement weather occurs—drivers should take alternate routes.

International Carillon Festival

All day — Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon — Free entry — Experience a rare musical journey at one of the world's finest carillons in the heart of Springfield.

Capital City Biathlon & 5K

6:00-10:30 a.m. — Danenberger Family Vineyards — Register online for entry fee — Test your endurance with a mini-biathlon and 5K run.

Levitt AMP Springfield 2025 Season

Ten free concerts in downtown Springfield thanks to the Levitt Foundation, PNC Bank, Springfield Area Arts Council & many local partners! Bring your friends, family, dogs, chairs, and picnics or order from the many food trucks and enjoy free, live music every Thursday, May 29 - July 31 on the lawn in front of the Governor's Mansion.

Lick Creek & Folsom Prison Five Concert

6 p.m. — The Stadium Smokehouse Bar and Grill — Enjoy great food and cold Coors Light while listening to live country and classic hits.

Dementia Caregiving 101: Nutrition and Activities

2-4 p.m. — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Learn about brain nutrition and meaningful activities for individuals with memory loss in this comprehensive caregiver support program.