Good morning, Springfield.

The Black Lives Matter Solidarity Day procession on Sunday in Springfield brought the community together as members decorated cars and marched to support fairness + Alderman Shawn Gregory and co-founder Sunshine Clemons noted the six-year tradition honored Black excellence with scholarships awarded at Cox Park.

A fire damaged the Washington assisted living facility on May 31, and all residents were safely evacuated as fire departments contained the blaze with no reported injuries.

Springfield shoppers can get a Funsicle 14-foot above-ground pool for under $200 at Walmart — it comes with a filter pump, cartridge and repair patch for easy setup.

Families can save on this deal as they plan for summer fun at home.

A new Mexican restaurant opened in Springfield offering a menu that goes beyond tacos and burritos plus inventive dishes that showcase fresh twists on classic flavors.

Springfield is set for a busy June featuring music at The Hoogland Center on June 3, a Route 66 5K at the Fairgrounds on June 6, and a vintage car rally on June 20 downtown.

The month also offers art and history events at various venues.

Illinois lawmakers approved a budget Monday morning that will provide a full $350 million increase in Evidence-Based Funding for public schools and restore $47 million in property tax relief grants, along with targeted increases for transportation and free meal programs (education advocates contend the boost still falls short).

The Illinois Senate passed a bipartisan bill banning cell phone use during class in schools Sunday with exceptions for emergencies, special needs, and translation services.

The legislation, which bars fines or law enforcement from enforcing the ban, now heads to Gov. Pritzker’s desk for final approval.

A bill boosting economic development in Downtown Springfield passed the Senate late Sunday night by a 38 — 19 vote.

The measure would create a Capital Area Tourism Authority for a new hotel linked to the Bank of Springfield Center and expand the medical district, and it now moves to the House.

Orangetheory Fitness in Springfield is offering new members a summer deal of unlimited classes for $99 during June, with the offer ending Tuesday, June 30.

Springfield will launch the 2026 Great Race, a Route 66 centennial rally that begins with a June 17 cruise-in for registered racers and a public welcome party on June 18, before the official start on June 20 along Sixth Street.

Paint with Ashley Blake

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Library - Pizza and Sports Bar — Cost covers materials — Enjoy a creative night painting a whimsical library gnome with guidance from Ashley Blake.

Getting Started With Wills & Trusts

3:30 p.m. — Edwards Group LLC — Free entry — Learn the essentials of estate planning in this informative workshop for families.

Foodees Fest

1-9 p.m. — White Oaks Mall — Free entry — Experience a weekend of gourmet food, artisan crafts, and family fun in Springfield.

Little Miracles 5K 2026

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Washington Park — Registration fee applies — Lace up for a fun run to support NICU warriors at St. John’s Children’s Hospital.

Teen Art Collage

2-3 p.m. — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Create a summer-inspired junk journal collage on canvas and embrace the messiness of art.