Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 11th of August.
Good morning, Springfield.
🏘️ Community
Springfield readers voted Old Luxemburg Inn as the best steakhouse in the 2024 Official Community Choice Awards—Empire Korean Steakhouse now called Japan House and Vele also earned strong support.
Residents can cast votes for their local favorites in the 2025 awards from today until Aug. 25.
🌲 Environment
Despite heavy rain on Aug.
10, Friends of Rocky Glen held talks +focusing on improving Kickapoo Creek Watershed's health+ by discussing ways to boost water quality.
The American Goldfinch brightens local gardens this summer with its bold yellow feathers and cheerful song — a favorite among birdwatchers in Sangamon County.
The bird breeds late in the season while feeding on sunflower seeds and thistles — local conservation efforts include planting native wildflowers to support its population.
🏛️ Government
Forty local news outlets are receiving $4 million in state tax credits under a law passed in May 2024 to help retain and hire journalists—most of the funding goes to organizations outside the Chicago metro area, with nonprofit outlets receiving 30% of the funds.
Officials noted that the credits are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis.
🏈 Sports
High school sports across Central Illinois will begin official practices tomorrow in football, flag football, cross country, golf, and others — with events scheduled over the next three weeks.
Week 1 of high school football is set to start on August 29, and the 25 Sports Football Tour will showcase 35 programs with events at 5:30, 6, and 10 p.m.
PORTA wrestling coach Jeff Hill was named to the National Wrestling Hall of Fame — Illinois Chapter as part of the Class of 2025 after he received the special news last week.
His induction ceremony will be held in October and he will resume coaching the Bluejays after his team’s regional win and state placements last year — setting the stage for a new season.
🎉 Springfield Events
Submit an event →
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.
🏠 Springfield Real Estate
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💼 Springfield Job Board
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📣 Springfield Announcements
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