Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield’s Ethan Posey launched the eight-week Minority Business Institute to help minority business owners with issues like zoning and bidding.

The program connects owners with local officials—teaching the basics for business growth as the city plans a small business symposium.

Former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore was sentenced on July 21 to two years in prison and fined $750,000 for her role in a bribery scheme targeting former House Speaker Michael Madigan—she is set to report to prison on Dec.

1 and will appeal the verdict.

Today, District 186 teachers begin a negotiating session with a federal mediator as their three-year contract nears its end at the start of the new school year + several teachers wore red at Monday’s board meeting to protest the shift.

Former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore was sentenced to two years in prison for her role in a bribery scheme targeting former House Speaker Michael Madigan—she is set to report to prison on Dec.

1 and plans to appeal her conviction.

Governor J-B Pritzker signed a bill on Monday that lets police remove squatters quickly by classifying squatting as criminal trespassing—cutting the lengthy eviction process for property owners.

State Representative Marcus Evans urged the change after squatters moved next door.

HSHS St. John's Children’s Hospital invites the community to enjoy a Dairy Queen Blizzard on July 31 in support of the Children's Miracle Network.

Participating locations at 1663 North Grand Ave. E., 1742 Wabash Ave., and 3121 E. Atlanta St. will donate at least $1 from every treat sold—helping the hospital aim to raise over $8,900 for vital services—while families join the fundraiser.

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.

Vachel Lindsay Home Guided Tour

9:45-10:15 a.m. — Vachel Lindsay Home State Historic Site — Free entry — Explore the legacy of poet Vachel Lindsay with art displays and a chance to win his collected works.