Good morning, Springfield.

The Illinois State Fair Grandstand in Springfield has updated its rules with walk through metal detectors, bag checks and banned bags larger than 14 x 8 inches plus all concessions will be cashless with drinks served in plastic cups only.

Parking costs $5 per vehicle per day at select gates and party attendees must show both a concert ticket and a party ticket at the designated tent in Parking Lot 18A.

A pedestrian was struck by a train along the 10th Street railroad tracks near the 2000 block of E Converse Street on Friday — first responders hurried to the scene and closed traffic near 19th Street and north to E Cummins Avenue — while investigators work to determine the victim’s condition.

Judge John Blakey denied former House Speaker Michael Madigan’s request to remain free during his appeal of corruption charges—he is set to report to prison on Oct.

13 as his legal team prepares to contest the bribery definition.

The 2025 Illinois State Fair is underway in Springfield with the Adventure Awaits theme and drew large crowds since its opening on August 7 — fairgoers enjoy live music, rodeo events, and creative competitions.

Local visitors can catch today's Craft Beer Competition at The Shed and look forward to arena events like monster truck shows — the fair will run until August 17.

A tentative deal between District 186 and the Springfield Education Association emerged after mediation sessions, and union members will vote on it in a ratification meeting Tuesday at Southeast High School — but the school board must still give its approval before classes begin next week.

Governor JB Pritzker has appointed Michele Pankow as Illinois State Fire Marshal, making her the first woman to hold this role.

Pankow—who began her fire service career in 1992 and served as Rockford's first female fire chief in 2021—said she will focus on building strong ties with her team as she steps into the new position.

Mortgage rates dropped to 6.57% on August 4th in Springfield — the lowest level in 10 months — giving house hunters a chance to save about $55 monthly on a median-priced home of $190,167.

The dip follows a weak July jobs report that has improved buying power as the market shifts.

Mortgage rates in Springfield dropped to 6.57% on August 4 (the lowest in 10 months) and cut monthly payments by about $55 on a median-priced home (around $190,167).

Redfin economists say the rate drop followed a weak July jobs report and may prompt a Fed rate cut soon.

UIS athletic department announced that Laura Ulrich, a native of Morton with over a decade of NCAA Division II experience, is named head coach of the Prairie Stars volleyball team.

She will officially join UIS in August — following a successful four-season run at St. Mary's — and is set to build a competitive program in the GLVC.

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.

Illinois Prairie Pastel Society 'Pastel Play' Member Show

10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Athens Municipal Library — Free entry — Explore vibrant pastel artworks during this engaging member exhibition.

Tour de Heartland

8 AM – 1 PM — Historic Marbold Farmstead — Registration fee applies — Enjoy a bike ride fundraiser supporting the Historic Marbold Farmstead Association.