Good morning, Springfield.

On May 9 just after 6 p.m., Indiana State Police stopped a speeding 2011 Buick near mile marker eight in Fountain County after detecting a marijuana odor, and a search uncovered substances believed to be fentanyl — drug paraphernalia, leading to the arrest of Springfield resident 41-year-old Shanna McCrary on charges of narcotic, marijuana and drug paraphernalia possession while the investigation remains ongoing.

Last week, federal officials stopped work on the next National Climate Assessment and let go of 400 volunteer scientists—including Illinois State Climatologist Trent Ford—as part of a reevaluation under the Global Change Research Act.

Local researchers worry the report, meant to cover challenges like heavy flooding and extreme heat, is now in jeopardy while lawmakers prepare new climate measures.

City Water, Light & Power issued a boil order today for 64 residents near Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport after a water main repair led to a failed water quality test—residents on Star, Mars and Neptune Avenues received door-to-door notice and must boil tap water for cooking and drinking until the order lifts on Monday, May 12.

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias unveiled the new Springfield Flagship Center to improve DMV services by moving operations from three older facilities.

The 42,000-square-foot center, located (2701 S. Dirksen Parkway), now has 32 full-service counters and a Fast Lane kiosk that will operate (7:30 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday) to reduce wait times.

The Illinois Senate voted to approve a bill that will force businesses to reveal hidden junk fees—reviving last year’s effort after an $11 million lawsuit settlement by the Attorney General.

The full Senate is set to vote on the measure today.

The State Journal-Register has announced more than a dozen nominees for athlete of the week in CS8, Sangamo and South Central spring ball—voters can cast their ballots until noon Friday.

Pleasant Plains’ Aspen Kitowski won last week's poll with 1,315 votes.

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.

Sangamon County Fair

7 p.m. — Sangamon County Fairgrounds — Family-friendly fun — Experience a Midwestern tradition with concerts, rides, and animals as you kick off the summer.