Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield Police and the Sangamon County Coroner’s Office identified 36-year-old Rekeea Jackson-Mason from Chatham as the victim of a shooting on Holly Drive early July 19, with EMS transporting her to HSHS St. John’s Hospital where she was pronounced dead at 4:08 a.m.—detectives continue to investigate the case.

Jesse Bates, 38, from Springfield was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison for selling 50 grams of meth to an undercover agent and speeding away when police tried to arrest him—he was free on bond for a firearm charge and later arrested in Georgia in January 2024—his guilty plea in March marked him as a career offender.

Federal officials visited the former Pillsbury site as crews carefully removed a silver paint coating containing five-percent asbestos from the silos and headhouse—cleanup that is vital before the planned demolition of these structures.

Grant funds of $3 million support the work, which will soon allow for recycling an estimated 70,000 tons of concrete.

Armadillos are slowly moving into Central and Northern Illinois and the IDNR now asks residents to report any sightings (reports of feral swine, fishers, nutria and large carnivores are also requested) to help track the animals’ range expansion.

Gov. JB Pritzker signed a law Monday that lets police remove squatters for criminal trespassing without a court-ordered eviction—this change takes effect Jan.

1 and supports property owners' rights.

Gov. JB Pritzker called on lawmakers to give the state more power over the homeowners insurance market after State Farm raised premiums by 27% and increased average costs to about $2,175 a year — He urged legislators to pass measures during the fall veto session starting Oct.

14 to help protect consumers.

Monday night, the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes hosted their fourth annual Battle of the Sexes fast pitch softball game and beat an area fast pitch women’s team, the Sallies, 8—7.

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.