Springfield
Sunrise
Friday, July 4th, 2025
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Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 4th of July.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ On Wednesday, a ribbon-cutting ceremony opened a quarter-mile section of the original Route 66 pavement at Carpenter Park Trail for public use + the stretch had been unused for nearly 90 years. The preserved pavement retains its original two-lane design and is now one of over 60 Route 66 attractions in Springfield + offering visitors a chance to experience a piece of local history. ABC 20
- ➤ The Massey Commission for Sangamon County will host several public events starting July 6 in Springfield to honor Sonya Massey one year after her death — events include a balloon release at 10 a.m. at 2868 S Hoover Street, a memorial bridge dedication at 3:30 p.m. at 1415 E Jefferson Street, healing circles on July 7 and 17, and a concert on July 10 that offers an in-person and a virtual option. WCIA
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ The former Baskin-Robbins on MacArthur Boulevard was demolished after a van crashed into its front on June 17th—causing the roof to collapse and minor injuries to a woman and a child while Sterling Tax Service now works from a temporary location. WMAY
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ United Community Bank announced leadership changes as Steve Otten will mentor new executives after stepping back from the Springfield market, and Todd Wood and Matt Seman are promoted to lead newly realigned regions effective August 1. David Drennan was named chief lending officer—moves that show the bank’s commitment to growth and service for our community. WYMG
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ GasBuddy reports fuel prices in Illinois are 36 cents lower than last year while AAA expects record highway travel this Fourth of July holiday. Triple-A states the average for regular gas is $3.43 — 27 cents above the national rate, with Springfield prices averaging about $3.26. WMAY
- ➤ The University of Illinois Springfield Innovation Center announced it will lease a larger space at downtown Horace Mann to expand its economic development programs—Innovate Springfield will relocate from the Old State Capitol Plaza to the third floor to offer more co-working, incubation, workforce training and event space. This move will improve the center's ability to host pitch competitions and other business events. WMAY
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The UIS women's tennis team earned the Jimmy John's Academic Team of the Year award after posting a 3.89 GPA on a 4.0 scale during the 2024-25 season—making them the top academic performers among UIS programs. Three standout seniors led the team while six athletes received Academic All-GLVC honors as part of the partnership between UIS Athletics and Jimmy John's in Springfield. University of Illinois Springfield
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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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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Springfield Watch & Clock Show and Sale
11 AM – 2 PM — Casey's Pub — Free entry — Explore a variety of timepieces at this local watch and clock exhibition and sale.
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National Button Society Convention 2025
11 a.m. — Crowne Plaza Springfield - Convention Ctr by IHG — Cost varies — Explore a unique collection of vintage buttons at this year's National Button Society Convention.
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Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Springfield Sunrise.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway.
~ John Wayne
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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