Good morning, Springfield.

Downtown Prom ran from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday at the Dana-Thomas House (a historic venue), giving local residents a chance to dress up, enjoy dinner, drinks, dancing, and free prom photos while supporting nearby businesses.

The America250 Celebrations kick off today in Springfield with several community events planned for the weekend.

Locals can enjoy clear skies, a low of 74F and light winds (5-10 mph) during the festivities.

Capital One announced plans to lay off at least 276 workers from its Riverwoods site as part of financial restructuring — the layoffs will affect on-site and remote employees and are scheduled to begin Aug.

6 and continue until Sept. 4.

Illinois lawmakers are urging Gov. Pritzker to opt the state into a federal scholarship tax credit program that will start Jan.

1, 2027, to help families pay for school costs. If Illinois joins, students in public and private schools may receive tax credits for expenses like tutoring and books.

Health officials say a parasite outbreak linked to Taylor Farms lettuce served at Taco Bell is causing illness in 34 states — Springfield diners should monitor any symptoms and follow doctor advice on proper hygiene and using a bidet for comfort if diarrhea causes skin irritation.

A local cardiologist urged Springfield residents to get regular heart checkups to detect artery-weakening plaque that can lead to severe pain (such as chest or back pain), emphasizing the importance of checking blood pressure, cholesterol, and kidney function for early prevention.

The Williamsville Bullets hosted a football scrimmage with Rochester Rockets & Byron Tigers on Thursday morning.

Aaron Kunz allowed filming of over nine minutes of offense and defense highlights.

Hot Dog Eating Champion Joey Chestnut will join Springfield Lucky Horseshoes Fan Appreciation night on Sunday, July 26, with a first pitch scheduled at 5:00 p.m. + gates open at 4:00 p.m.

On July 16, 2026, Glenwood volleyball won a summer league match against Dee Mack at Illini Elite volleyball — the game showcased strong teamwork and pivotal rallies.

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.