Good morning, Springfield.

The Outlet in Springfield dedicated a wing to honor Marcus Butler Sr., a mentor who guided many young men.

The event celebrates his lasting impact on the community.

Springfield Boxing Club is celebrating its 90th anniversary on Saturday at 6 p.m. at its East Black Avenue gym with a community party, food, drinks and fireworks while supporting free boxing training (and life skills) for local youth.

Christina Shutt, the executive director of ALPLM (Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum), will step down at the end of the year after five years of leading its cultural programs.

The Board of Trustees, in consultation with the governor, will select a new director subject to Illinois State Senate confirmation.

The Kidzeum of Health and Science, a staple of downtown fun, is celebrating its 8th birthday on Saturday, July 18 with a free event including Route 66-themed activities, readings by Alderwoman Lakisha Purchase, visit from Buzz Waldmire, and movie screening of Cars at the Old State Capitol (RSVP required).

State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark and Visit Springfield’s Amy Beadle are urging locals to vote for the Illinois State Fair to be named the nation’s best — a contest that highlights its affordability and family-friendly fun while drawing nearly 800,000 visitors and boosting the local economy.

Illinois will hold a back-to-school sales tax holiday from August 7 through August 16 that will lower the state tax from 6.25% to 1.25% on eligible purchases (clothing and footwear under $125 and school supplies like backpacks and binders).

Spoon River College named its next president following a nationwide search — the new leader is expected to take charge soon to bolster academic programs and community partnerships.

The Illinois State Board of Education released new guidelines for AI use in schools today.

The 409-page document explains how AI helped draft content and was checked by humans+ it follows legislation passed in 2025 to address concerns about AI risks to student learning.

IDNR proposes to convert Y Block near the Governor’s Mansion into a public park and venue with a limestone amphitheater seating 500 and lawn seating for over 1,000; the city council will debate an ordinance to transfer the property next week.

Illinois students in Springfield have been recognized for creative radon awareness projects after winning the 2026 Radon Poster and Video Contest; winners received prizes ranging from $100 to $600 to promote radon testing and exposure reduction.

Springfield Boxing Club is celebrating its 90th anniversary today in Springfield.

The event will feature live boxing demos and community activities that show the club’s longstanding role in local sports.

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.