Good morning, Springfield.

After a storm damaged two shelter buildings on June 10, an animal shelter (and spay/neuter clinic) in Springfield received 600 foster applications.

The surge will help find temporary homes for cats and dogs while plans for a temporary shelter are developed.

Jerome holds Village Vendor Market in Springfield today to celebrate the library's re-opening; local vendors and community members gather to mark the refreshed space.

APL thanked local neighbors (and other volunteers) for their support as cleanup efforts continue today in Springfield.

Springfield marks its 32nd Juneteenth with a week of events including a Unity Parade, concerts, and family activities organized by Juneteenth Inc. through Friday, June 19, held at Comer Cox Park & local venues to honor freedom and culture.

On Thursday night, an EF-1 tornado traveled 24.1 miles beginning near Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, damaging trees and buildings near Camp Butler National Cemetery and Mechanicsburg.

A smaller tornado near Tallula caused damage to a grain bin and nearby trees.

Eastern Box Turtles in Sangamon County use their domed, yellow-marked shells to hide in wooded areas and brushy edges; they help control insects and spread seeds while facing threats from road traffic and habitat loss, so local drivers are encouraged to help them cross roads safely.

Residents are advised to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and protective clothing when enjoying outdoor activities to help prevent sunburn and skin damage during summer events in local parks—Springfield Clinic and HSHS Medical Group also recommend routine skin checks.

Sangamon County will celebrate Eat Your Vegetables Day on June 17 by inviting residents to enjoy seasonal produce at the Old Capitol Farmers Market in downtown Springfield and join CSA programs that support local farms.

The county also offers gardening resources from the University of Illinois Extension.

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.

Sponge with Order of The Machine Concert

6:30-10:30 p.m. — The Stadium Smokehouse Bar and Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a night of 90’s alternative rock with Sponge and local favorites.

Midnight Reading Paint Night

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Library - Pizza and Sports Bar — Relaxing paint night — Unwind while creating a moody midnight scene with guidance from Ashley Blake.

Karaoke Night at Somewhere Else Lounge

8:30 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. — Somewhere Else Lounge — Free entry — Enjoy a lively karaoke night with a great crowd and an extensive music catalog.