Good morning, Springfield.

Race officials are setting up for the 17th annual Fat A 5k happening today from 10 a.m. — 3 p.m. in Springfield, where runners will stop for treats like beer, corn dogs, donuts, and ice cream and then join a street party, with officials having donated over $2 million to local charities since 2008.

Springfield’s new Potbelly Sandwich Works at 3061 Wabash Avenue in Southwest Plaza II Shopping Center will open Tuesday, May 13.

Owner Rob Wilbern, who runs other Potbelly locations in the region, said the shop will offer toasty sandwiches, signature salads, hand‐dipped shakes and freshly baked cookies — with daily hours from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Illinois state parks recorded more than 41 million visitors in 2024— the highest count in 15 years— after recent renovations and upgrades at parks such as Starved Rock and Illinois Beach.

The state has invested $73 million at Illinois Beach to build breakwaters and will invest more in deferred maintenance and historic site restoration in the coming months.

A study by the University of Chicago finds that state-run health care programs for noncitizens have reduced hospital bad debt by 15% since their start during the COVID era—saving hospitals about $1.5 million yearly on average.

Gov. Pritzker’s budget proposal plans to end the program for immigrant adults while keeping the program for seniors active.

Realtor.com data shows that the median home sale price in Sangamon County in February rose to $198,500 from $169,950 in January—an increase of 16.8%—while it climbed 28.1% compared to February last year.

UIS softball third baseman Ella Brinkley was named to the NFCA Division II All-Midwest Region Second Team by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association and earned her first all-region honor this season.

She posted a career-high .407 batting average with 59 hits — the best of her career — and now moves forward for 2025 All-America team consideration.

Athens High School celebrated three seniors who signed college athletic scholarships on Friday.

Karsyn Jacoby signed for Lincoln Land soccer + Izzy Link signed for Lincoln Land volleyball + Piper Reynolds signed with Southeast Missouri State cheer.

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.

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.

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.