Good morning, Springfield.

Corn lovers in Springfield celebrated their annual maize festival on August 3rd as families gathered for corn-themed events—an occasion that highlights a cherished local tradition.

Attorney General Kwame Raoul responded today after the U.S. Department of Education released funding that had been frozen by the previous administration, a step that eased budget gaps for local school districts and students.

He joined a coalition that filed a lawsuit on July 14 to challenge the funding freeze that left Illinois with a $219 million gap — and he said he will keep fighting to protect education funding.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has closed the hunting and trapping seasons for gray fox because surveys show their numbers dropped a lot over the past ten years — scientists say diseases and competition from coyotes caused the decline.

The agency will keep studying the fox population to help guide future action.

Two high-profile city employees left the Municipal Building – communications director Haley Williams resigned on Friday and city planner Sean Pritchard, hired eight months ago, also departed to take state government roles.

Two high-profile city employees left the Municipal Building after accepting jobs with Illinois state government—Haley Williams resigned Friday as communications director while city planner Sean Pritchard, who joined eight months ago, also departed—City officials have not commented on the changes.

Leeta is a 4-year-old pit mix who loves to cuddle and chase squeaky toys while following her people from room to room.

The friendly dog gets along well with other dogs—though her feelings about cats are still being learned.

UIS Athletics partnered with Jimmy John's at 219 S.

6th St. to honor eight student-athletes and one team for the 2024-25 season—recognizing achievements in volleyball, golf, basketball, track, softball, tennis and baseball. The program celebrated record-breaking performances and high academic scores at the annual Night of Stars banquet.

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.

Springfield Virtual Job Fair

4-6 p.m. — Crowne Plaza Springfield – Convention Ctr by IHG — Free registration — Connect with employers and get AI matched for interviews in a virtual setting.

Healing Arts Festival

2-10 p.m. — Buzz Bomb Brewing Co — Free entry — Experience a vibrant community gathering featuring live music, healthy food, and local art.