Good morning, Springfield.

Kadie Hummel, a new high school graduate from Cabery, raised a prize-winning steer named Bruce that Gov. JB and First Lady MK Pritzker bought for $105,000 at the Illinois State Fair to donate to food banks—she will study animal science and join a livestock judging team in community college in Kansas.

Springfield is hosting a three-day event called Three Hot Days in August to remember the violent 1908 race riots—interactive sessions at the Illinois State Museum and a presentation at the Lincoln Library will honor those affected.

Local leaders including Doris Bailey, Mayor Misty Buscher, and NAACP President Austin Randolph will share accounts and keep the community's history alive.

Illinois residents are facing steep electric bill increases this summer as some see costs double or triple compared to last year due to rising capacity auction prices from the shift away from coal and gas toward wind and solar.

State lawmakers and industry leaders warn that current clean energy policies could drive further price hikes—burdening families, homeowners and small businesses.

Camp Butler National Cemetery today hosted the 'The Spirit of ’45' commemoration in partnership with the Inter-Veterans Council of Sangamon County to honor World War II veterans on the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender—featuring a wreath dedication, a moment of silence, and military honors provided by the Inter-Veterans Burial Detail. Rosemary Connolly was recognized as one of twenty-five Women Veteran Leaders for 2025.

Sheriff Paula Crouch reminded drivers to obey school bus laws by stopping when buses show red lights and extended stop arms and by slowing down in school zones where children get on and off buses.

The sheriff warned that any distraction or impatience might lead to tragic consequences — especially as the new school year begins.

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.

Illinois Senior Games

9 AM – 6 PM — Iles Park — Registration open — Compete in various sports including pickleball during this exciting senior Olympics event.

Art Spectacular

10 a.m.–5 p.m. — Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon — Free admission — Celebrate 20 years of art and music at Central Illinois' premier fine art fair featuring local and regional artists.