Good morning, Springfield.

A pickup truck struck the front of Star 66 Cafe on Camp Butler Road Sunday morning before 8 a.m.—minor injuries were reported and the cafe reopened Sunday afternoon.

Illinois State Police finished a six-day traffic check in Sangamon County that led to 31 arrests, 385 tickets, the seizure of 44 pounds of cocaine, 1,453 pounds of cannabis, six guns, and one stolen car—supported by the Springfield Police and Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office.

The Illinois State Fair has updated its security measures for the upcoming event running from August 7 until 17.

Metal detectors will screen all grandstand entrances — bags and purses larger than 14 by 8 inches will not be allowed.

Illinois State Fair officials announced new Grandstand security measures at the fairgrounds in Springfield that include metal detectors and bag checks and ban items like glass containers, large bags, and professional camera gear—these rules will apply for fairgoers attending the event from August 7 to 17.

A survey by the University of Illinois Springfield shows that high schools in Illinois teach the state-required media literacy unit very differently, with some schools offering a single lesson over the year while others spread the content over several weeks + local teachers and librarians are calling for better oversight and funding to help all students learn these skills.

Springfield Police and local community groups are unveiling a community action plan to improve interactions between police and residents.

An open house will be held today from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Southeast High School Commons — the plan addresses police hiring and training, mental health support, and efforts to provide greater transparency.

Springfield attorney Sierra Senor-Moore — a former prosecutor in Sangamon County and federal court — was chosen by circuit judges as associate judge of the Seventh Judicial Circuit.

She will be sworn in on September 4th and she also served on the Springfield Park District Board.

Dairy Queen locations in Springfield will join Miracle Treat Day (July 31) to support HSHS St. John’s (the only children’s hospital in Springfield) by donating $1 or more per Blizzard treat sold, with the hospital aiming to raise over $8,900.

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.

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.

Balloons Over 66 5K

8 AM – 12 PM — Lincoln Community High School — Registration required — Enjoy a morning 5K run with friends and family in a vibrant community setting.