Friday, June 6th, 2025

Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Springfield Sunrise.
Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 6th of June.
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Sangamon County Mental Health Commission met June 4 to review proposals that would fund a new seven-oh-eight mental health board with a sales tax increase—similar to the strategy used by Winnebago County to secure about $20 million for over 40 initiatives. The commission noted these efforts helped reduce emergency room visits and offered a model that could improve local mental health services. WYMG
- ➤ The Illinois Department of Transportation announced a $5.5 million improvement project on North Dirksen Parkway by resurfacing the road, upgrading traffic signals and making ADA improvements. Today, southbound traffic will use the reopened segment from North Peoria Road to Terminal Road—while northbound drivers detour via Sangamon Avenue and North Peoria Road—with the work expected to finish in early August. WYMG
- ➤ State lawmakers approved a $55.2 million FY2026 balanced budget that increased spending nearly 4% and raised an extra $500 million from new taxes on sports betting and nicotine products, and it now sits on Gov. Pritzker’s desk awaiting his signature after being passed on Saturday. Leaders differ on its impact—Lt. Gov. Stratton says it supports working families while Rep. Hammond criticizes cuts to property tax relief and capital projects. 25 News
- ➤ Illinois helped borrowers like Josue Villalpando lower student loan debt and buy homes through the SmartBuy program—state officials now face uncertainty over renewed funding as the growing debt crisis challenges many residents. Experts say changes in federal policy and the high cost of education add to worries about long-term relief options. Capitol News Illinois
- ➤ The Illinois Department on Aging announced that June 15 will be Elder Abuse Awareness Day and urged residents to learn the warning signs and report any suspected abuse. Officials noted that reports have increased since 2022 and stressed the need for vigilance to protect older adults. WMAY
- ➤ New Illinois laws set to take effect July 1st include an increase in motor fuel taxes, a ban on small plastic bottles in hotels with 50 or more rooms, a change in sales tax rules for leases and rentals, and mandatory training on opioid overdose reversal medication for state employees—updates signed by Gov. Pritzker during recent legislative sessions aim to address inflation, waste reduction, and emergency response. WCIA
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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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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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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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.
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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.
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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.
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Virtual Tour of Springfield Supportive Living
9 a.m.-7 p.m. — Springfield Supportive Living — Free entry — Explore award-winning amenities and activities at one of the highest-rated senior living communities.
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Camp Invention: Discover at Lincoln Magnet School
8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. — Lincoln Magnet School — $175 — A STEM summer program that fosters creativity and problem-solving skills for kids entering grades 1-6.
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Grease Musical
7 p.m. — Legacy Theatre — Check venue site for pricing — Experience the beloved musical journey of Danny and Sandy with classic tunes and lively performances.
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Midnineties performing Bleed American
7 p.m. — Anvil & Forge Brewing and Distilling Company — Tickets vary — Experience Midnineties performing Jimmy Eat World's iconic album 'Bleed American' in full.
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Zen Paint Night with Ashley Blake
2-4 p.m. — Kentucky Burn — All materials provided — Relax and tap into your creative spirit while painting in a calming atmosphere.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
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
The role of a writer is not to say what we all can say, but what we are unable to say.
~ Anais Nin
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