Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield police are investigating a shooting on East Ash Street that occurred Thursday when someone was shot and a car drove into a house front—authorities are now searching for suspects, witnesses, and evidence.

Federal prosecutors on Thursday asked a judge to give ex-Springfield lobbyist Mike McClain 70 months in prison for his role in an illegal bribery scheme — tied to former House Speaker Michael Madigan and ComEd — as part of the ongoing ComEd Four case.

Springfield City Council is considering an ordinance that would require certain secondhand dealers—specifically unlicensed pawn shops—to register so they can be held to the same rules as licensed ones to help prevent copper thefts.

The proposal will be discussed at next week's council meeting.

Governor Pritzker said State Farm’s new rate hikes and extra costs will charge homeowners hundreds more a year—he explained that the increases do not match Illinois insurance data.

He directed the Department of Insurance to review the changes and urged legislators to pass a bill to stop companies from shifting out-of-state losses—ensuring fair rates for Illinois homeowners.

The Illinois State Police graduated 95 new troopers at Westside Christian Church in Springfield—Cadet Class 150 is the largest in 25 years and includes both traditional and lateral entry cadets who will report to their assigned ISP troops on Sunday, July 13.

New troopers now join 692 since 2019 under Governor JB Pritzker and ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly.

Lincoln Library will host a Mobile DMV unit on Friday, July 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. exclusively for City of Springfield employees at 326 S.

7th Street. Employees will access services such as driver's license and state ID card issuance, renewals, duplicates, corrections, REAL ID processing, and vehicle registration with license plate stickers and must register by calling (217-753-4900) as written and road tests will not be available.

Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport in Springfield is set to receive $950,000 from the federal Department of Transportation’s Federal Airport Authority for runway repairs, according to Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth.

The funding will help improve airport connectivity + boost local economic growth.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Monster Truck Destruction Tour

7:30-9 p.m. — Illinois State Fairgrounds — $64-$88 — Experience the thrill of the Monsters of Destruction live and feel the adrenaline rush.

The Black Crowes Live Performance

8 PM — Illinois State Fairground — Ticket prices vary — Experience the raw energy of The Black Crowes in an electrifying rock & roll show.

Megan Moroney Concert

8 p.m. — Illinois State Fair Grandstand — $47-$122 — Critically acclaimed country artist Megan Moroney performs hits from her latest album Am I Okay?.