Good morning, Springfield.

Illinois lawmakers tried to pass bills that would require food vendors to share their sourcing details and improve labor, environmental, and animal welfare standards, but the proposals failed before the key deadline due to state agency concerns — officials said the changes would add red tape to food procurement. A resolution was filed to extend a task force that would encourage agencies to voluntarily share food purchase details — and lawmakers continue to debate ways to support local producers.

The Department of Veterans Affairs Camp Butler National Cemetery and the Inter-Veterans Council of Sangamon County will hold a Memorial Day wreath-laying ceremony on May 26 at 2 p.m. Congresswomen Nikki Budzinski and Mary Miller will speak as local groups and police assist on site — seating is provided near the Rostrum.

On Tuesday, advocates, lawmakers, and survivors of gun violence gathered at the state capitol to push for SB8— a safe gun storage measure to reduce firearm deaths.

They also supported a homicide report bill— which would give unsolved cases a fresh review and may be voted on by lawmakers before the session ends on May 31.

The General Assembly passed Senate Bill 1723 banning carbon sequestration in the Mahomet Aquifer to protect the drinking water of hundreds of thousands in McLean, Tazewell, Woodford & Mason counties.

The bill now awaits Governor Pritzker’s signature & he has 60 days to act.

Sangamon County lost about 1,000 residents in the past decade, mostly among young people, even though its overall count grew since 1990, Chairman Andy Van Meter said.

City leaders are planning new programs and projects—like the Transportation Hub and Downtown Master Plan—to find out what will help young residents stay in Springfield.

The City of Springfield and its partners—Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance, Downtown Springfield, Inc., Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln, and Mid-Illinois Medical District—announced a new master plan with a $150,000 grant to boost downtown and the medical district.

Ryan McCrady and Abby Powell outlined that the plan will improve land use, transportation, parking, and pedestrian spaces while inviting local residents to shape the city's future.

The Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police, and over 200 law enforcement agencies have joined the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Click It or Ticket campaign to remind drivers to buckle up and avoid impaired driving as Memorial Day weekend nears. Officials warn that the safety push comes after last year's holiday weekend saw several fatal crashes — urging everyone to take seat belt laws seriously.

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.

R and B Live Summer Party

7-10 p.m. — Curve Inn — Free entry — Get ready to groove at a night of soulful music and good vibes.

Little Miracles 5K

A fun 3K/5K run/walk for all ages and abilities! The race will support the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to continue funding a variety of items/programs to support our tiniest patients at HSHS St. John's Children's Hospital.