Good morning, Springfield.

Rocki welcomed back Ryan McCrady — President and CEO of the Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance—who spoke about positive workforce trends and local business growth in Springfield.

He highlighted expanding opportunities and strong momentum for the community.

Intricate Minds founder Tiara Standage said race relations in Springfield have hardly improved since Sonya Massey was fatally shot in her home on July 6 after an encounter with deputy Sean Grayson, who claimed self-defense.

She urged aldermen to change policies that allowed the tragedy to occur—Grayson is in jail on murder charges and will be tried this fall.

The Abraham Lincoln Council, Scouting America announced that the Ace Sign Co. family will be honored with the 2025 Trailblazer Award during the Trailblazer Dinner on September 11 at Erin’s Pavilion in Southwind Park—an honor that recognizes their long history of community leadership and support for youth development.

Springfield’s City Council discussed blighted properties during Tuesday’s meeting and noted nearly three thousand registered complaints from Ward Two while urging changes to improve code enforcement.

The Illinois Department of Labor released the 2025 prevailing wage rates for construction trades that took effect July 15 to ensure fair pay on public works projects.

Anyone who objects must file a written notice by August 14+ objections will be reviewed by an Administrative Law Judge.

The Springfield City Council met to discuss copper theft, building demolition work and the one-year anniversary of Sonya Massey’s death.

Ward 9 Alderman Jim Donelan explained these issues on WTAX Morning Newswatch—addressing matters that affect local residents—while the council considers next steps.

Illinois lawmakers did not pass new rules to regulate intoxicating hemp products (House Bill 1 stalled), leaving hemp and cannabis groups at odds over safety and sales.

Industry leaders at Stoney Branch Farms expect more talks with lawmakers (more negotiations ahead) to set clear standards soon.

Springfield Lucky Horseshoes are asking the Park District to transfer Robin Roberts Stadium to a nonprofit called Friends of Robin Roberts Stadium—made up of local business and sports leaders—because the district lacks funds to fix issues like the collapsed concession stand and diamond flooding. The district said state law limits its ability to sell property and it is open to other options that protect taxpayers.

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.

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.

Def Leppard Concert

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Illinois State Fairground — Ticket prices vary — Rock out with the legendary British heavy metal band known for their iconic anthems and powerful performances.