Friday, May 9th, 2025

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Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 9th of May.
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ On May 7, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that Operation Restore Justice rescued child victims and led to 205 arrests nationwide while in Central Illinois—Mark Peterson of Pekin was charged with attempted enticement after trying to meet a minor in Peoria, Dalton Trader of Williamsville was charged with possession of child pornography after officers found videos on his computer, and Springfield’s James Yeager was charged with possession of child pornography after agents found images on a micro SD drive, with all three held in custody pending further hearings. WMAY
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Dr. Deborah Brothers, a professor at Lincoln Land Community College, was named the 2025 Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty Award winner by the American Association of Community Colleges at their annual conference in Nashville—she has taught literature, composition and humanities for over 30 years in Springfield. WMAY
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Legislative leaders in Springfield warned that the budget talks will be tough as lawmakers work on a plan to prioritize public safety—education and help for vulnerable groups—while facing slower revenues. Senate President Don Harmon and House Minority Leader Tony McCombie said the legislature may reconvene after May 31 if needed to adjust the plan further. WYMG
- ➤ Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias unveiled Springfield’s new DMV Flagship Center on Wednesday, replacing the old facility and adding 32 full-service counters to reduce wait times — the 42,000-square-foot center at 2701 S. Dirksen Parkway now offers a hybrid of walk-in and appointment services Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. — it also provides REAL ID services through May 31. FOX Illinois
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Illinois Springfield women's golf team ended its season on Wednesday at the NCAA Division II East Regional, finishing 17th out of 18 teams as Elaine Grant tied for 11th overall—seniors Prieto and Segal ended their college careers after steady performances. University of Illinois Springfield
TRAVEL NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR Compression packing cubes are a travel game-changer — fit twice as much, stay organized, and avoid suitcase chaos. Perfect for any trip, they keep clothes tidy, save space, and make packing and unpacking a breeze. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Springfield Sunrise.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Springfield Watch & Clock Show and Sale
11 AM – 2 PM — Casey's Pub — Admission details not provided — Explore a variety of watches and clocks at this community-sponsored event.
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Friends of the Farmers Market Brunch
1:30-3:30 p.m. — Union Square Park — Celebrate local agriculture with delicious farm-to-table dishes and community vibes.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

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Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Springfield Sunrise.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Have no fear of perfection - you'll never reach it.
~ Salvador Dali
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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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