Good morning, Springfield.

Federal prosecutors on Thursday asked a judge to sentence ex-Springfield lobbyist Mike McClain—convicted in 2023 for his role in Commonwealth Edison’s bribery attempts involving former House Speaker Michael Madigan—to 70 months in prison ahead of separate sentencing hearings for the ComEd case next week.

A Springfield man shot 51-year-old Jerald Fahey at a McDonald’s parking lot in April after a traffic accident escalated, and the State’s Attorney ruled his action was self-defense—he now faces misdemeanor DUI and intoxicated concealed carry charges with a pretrial conference set for Aug. 18.

Gas prices in Illinois increased 6.8 cents this past week as the average rose to $3.45 per gallon according to Gasbuddy.com — the price is 2.7 cents higher than last month but 37.5 cents lower than it was a year ago.

The Illinois Lottery is celebrating Lottery Week from July 14 to 18 by partnering with more than 40 radio stations to offer prizes including Instant Tickets with a chance to win up to $2 million—nearly 99% of its proceeds support K-12 education through the Common School Fund.

Today, the Illinois Department of Transportation is launching seven major projects in Springfield with an $82 million investment to make roads safer and create jobs—five projects will finish this year and two will complete in 2026.

Gov. JB Pritzker and Mayor Misty Buscher said the work will ease travel and boost local opportunities.

A bipartisan plan now on Gov. JB Pritzker's desk will let sexual assault survivors use vouchers for taxi and rideshare services to go to and from hospitals or treatment centers starting Jan.

1 if signed into law. The bill (SB 1274) passed both legislative chambers unanimously and is backed by the Illinois Hospital Association (IHA).

Hartford Bakery Inc. is recalling six lots of its Lewis Bake Shop Artisan Style 1/2 Loaf bread sold at Kroger and Walmart in Illinois because the products contain undeclared hazelnuts that could trigger serious allergic reactions — customers are urged to return the bread for a full refund.

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?.

Snoop Dogg Concert

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Illinois State Fairground — Requires Pre-Show Party and Concert ticket — Enjoy an exclusive pre-show party before Snoop Dogg takes the stage.

Ask a Library Techie

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Get one-on-one tech assistance with your devices from knowledgeable staff members.