Good morning, Springfield.

The annual Small Business Awards luncheon highlighted local businesses working together and providing jobs, according to chamber president Mike Murphy.

The Chamber will co-sponsor a fireworks show on Saturday — an event to celebrate America 250.

Illinois farmers have faced rising bankruptcies over the past three years — driven by high land rent, low crop prices, and tighter crop insurance.

A recent budget session ended without new relief measures, leaving operators with little support amid continued market challenges.

A heat advisory is in effect from 11:00 a.m. today until midnight Thursday for central and southeast Illinois—officials warn high humidity and heat index values up to 110 may cause illness.

Residents should stay hydrated and remain indoors if possible.

Maisy, a specially trained therapy dog at the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District, has eased stress for victims and witnesses since arriving in August 2025.

The black Labrador helps calm nerves during interviews and court sessions — boosting comfort in tough legal settings.

Local fish markets were named the best places to buy fish in Springfield by community readers through the 2025 Official Community’s Choice Awards + the result reflects strong local support for quality seafood.

PCAPS is offering free microchipping for pets ahead of the holiday when many pets get lost.

The service will be available soon at local PCAPS spots (please check local bulletins for details).

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.

House in the Field

12-8 p.m. — Duncan Park — Free entry — Experience a vibrant day of soulful Chicago-style house music and community celebration.

Cub/Card Paint Night with Ashley Blake

2-4 p.m. — Harvest Market — Cost TBA — Unleash your inner artist in a relaxed paint night creating cool cub or card paintings.

Nike Basketball Camp at Lanphier High School

July 20-24 — Lanphier High School — Pack your lunch — Improve your game with professional coaching focusing on skills, conditioning, and team play.

Levitt AMP Springfield Music Festival featuring Attic Salt

6:00-9:15 p.m. — Levitt AMP Springfield Music Series — Ticketed event — Enjoy a night of alternative rock with Attic Salt under the stars.

Saving Abel Concert at The Stadium

6-10:30 p.m. — The Stadium Smokehouse Bar and Grill — All ages welcome — Experience the Multi-Platinum Southern Rockers known for their hit 'Addicted' alongside special guests Claudey Blue and Death Do Us Part.