Springfield
Sunrise
Saturday, June 28th, 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 Saturday, the 28th of June.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The 3rd Annual Springfield's Finest Corvette Show was held Friday at the Crowne Plaza Hotel where custom rides were showcased to raise funds for cancer research. Today the event continues as judges evaluate the cars based on paint, engine, and interior details—ensuring a focus on overall presentation. ABC 20
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Great Lakes Valley Conference announced that 48 Prairie Stars from UIS earned the Council of Presidents' Academic Excellence Award for keeping a 3.50 GPA or higher, completing 96 credit hours, and competing for at least two seasons. Women's soccer led with 10 honorees—four of whom achieved a perfect 4.0, including Anna Schurz, Tom Bumann, Sara Prieto, and Connor McFadden. University of Illinois Springfield
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Gov. JB Pritzker signed the fiscal year 2026 budget that gives 97 Soil and Water Conservation Districts $7.5 million—each district will receive about $40,000 for staff and operations. Eliot Clay from the Illinois association said these funds are not enough for each district to hire the two full-time employees they need. Capitol City Now
- ➤ The Springfield Department of Public Works reminded residents that branch pickup for 2025 will begin on July 7 in the Northwest quadrant and continue with scheduled collections on July 14, 21, and 28—branches must be curbside by 7:00 a.m. during each designated week and proof of residency is needed for year-round drop-offs at Evans Recycling. Capitol City Now
- ➤ Gov. JB Pritzker launched his re-election campaign for a third term at an Arlington event on Thursday—supporters cheered 'Four more years!' He said re-election will let him work each day for the people of Illinois and get more done for the state. WYMG
- ➤ The city of Springfield announced a nine-week program to help minority business owners learn the steps needed to meet city requirements & overcome common obstacles. Community relations director Ethan Posey explained the program is designed to reduce the challenges many new business owners face. WYMG
- ➤ The Springfield Police Department is testing its new 'Lights On!' program that gives vouchers instead of citations for drivers with broken or burned-out vehicle lights. The vouchers cover up to $250 in repairs and allow 14 days for fixing the issues — a move designed to build better community trust. WAND-TV
- ➤ The Springfield Fire Department warned residents to use licensed professionals for fireworks and not to try DIY displays without a permit — only specific items like party poppers are allowed. The department also advised outdoor grilling with a 3-foot safe zone from structures and children — guidelines meant to reduce fire risks and keep celebrations safe. ABC 20
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Recent studies show that extreme summer heat puts children at risk of heatstroke in cars, and nearly 40 kids die each year from hot car incidents. Illinois parents are urged to use reminders like placing a toy next to a child’s seat before leaving a vehicle + to always check the back seat to help prevent these tragedies. The State Journal-Register
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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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.
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Rock the Dock
6-11 p.m. — Lake Springfield Marina — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with Central Illinois' largest fireworks display alongside live music and food.
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Women's Distance Festival
8 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Washington Park — $5 and up — Celebrate women’s athleticism with races including a 2 Mile and Kids Fun Run.
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Scheels/Capital City Classic Pickleball Tournament
Thu, Jul 17 – Sun, Jul 20 — Iles Park — Entry Fee Required — Compete in one of Springfield's exciting pickleball tournaments and showcase your skills.
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Washington Park Trail Trek
7-10 a.m. — Washington Park — Registration fee applies — Embark on a historical 5K journey through Washington Park's scenic trails.
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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
What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
About Springfield Sunrise
Welcome to the Springfield Sunrise, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Springfield, Illinois community. If you like the Springfield Sunrise, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Springfield.
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