LLCC offering free Media Makers Camps
Lincoln Land Community College is offering free Media Makers Camps July 13-16 for rising high school sophomores, juniors and seniors to get an introductory, inside-look at the field of 21st-century graphic design, also known as integrated media design. The camps will be held at LLCC-Medical District, 130 W. Mason St., Springfield. Each camp is four days with morning (9 a.m. to noon) and afternoon (1-4 p.m.) options. The morning camp will focus on digital photography and video. The afternoon camp will
Lake Springfield Host to State Bass Fishing Tournament
Lake Springfield is host to the Illinois High School Coaches and Student State Tournament for bass fishing on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday May 31. The Lindsay Boat Launches will be reserved for the tournament beginning Friday, May 29th at 10 p.m. through Sunday, May 31st around 3 p.m. The Harbor Point and Sailboat Launches in Center Park, the Spaulding Dam Launch and Marine Point Launch will remain open to the public.The public is invited to attend and view from the Lindsay Boat Launch but the launches will
Ambassador Committee Member Spotlight Robert Patterson
Robert PattersonFinancial Advisor - Asst. Vice President PNC Wealth Management (217) 753-7162r.patterson@pnc.com What products and services does your business offer? Comprehensive Financial Planning, Retirement Planning, Investment Solutions, Tax-Efficient Investments, Life and LTC Insurance Planning What is one thing you'd like for people to know about your business? The names, faces, and circumstances may change and vary, but if there's one inescapable pattern to the markets and investing it's
LLCC to host Campus Visit Day June 16
Prospective students interested in starting or restarting college, training for a hands-on career or building new skills are invited to visit Lincoln Land Community College for Campus Visit Day on Tuesday, June 16, 5-7:30 p.m. The free event will be held at LLCC’s Springfield campus, 5250 Shepherd Rd. “Campus Visit Day is a great opportunity for students to explore what’s possible at LLCC,” said LLCC President Charlotte Warren, Ph.D. “Whether they’re pursuing a transfer degree, preparing for a workforce
CWLP EV Charger Installations Underway
City Water, Light and Power’s first sets of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations have been installed and are now in operation at multiple sites across Springfield. When complete, the project will provide 40 charging ports across nine locations citywide. In an effort to advance Springfield's infrastructure to support clean transportation options, these ports are being deployed to sites where driving patterns match sites with potential for high usage.The first chargers are operational at University of
Johnson celebrates 25 years with Hanson
Bob Johnson, a senior technician at Hanson Professional Services Inc.’s Springfield headquarters, recently celebrated 25 years of service with the firm. Johnson, who joined the company in 2001, has provided computer-aided design and drafting services for transportation projects, including the Springfield Rail Improvements Project; replacement of the eastbound span of the McClugage Bridge in Peoria and Tazewell counties; widening and reconstruction of a 22-mile section of Interstate 90 (Jane Addams
Springfield Fire Department Launches Residential Knox HomeBox® Loaner Program as Part of Community Risk Reduction Efforts
The City of Springfield and the Springfield Fire Department are proud to announce the relaunch of the Residential Knox HomeBox® Loaner Program. This loaner program is a proactive initiative focused on reducing risk, improving emergency response times, and enhancing community safety. As part of the department’s Community Risk Reduction (CRR) strategy, the program addresses a common challenge during emergencies: delayed access into homes. During fires, medical emergencies, or alarm activations, firefighters
The Lorene Montgomery Miley Estate Makes Sizable Donation to Springfield Memorial Foundation
The estate of Lorene Montgomery Miley donated $434,000 to the Springfield Memorial Foundation in December 2025, a gift that will help fund the purchase of state-of-the-art medical equipment for Springfield Memorial Hospital (SMH) over the next several years. “Lorene was a 1935 graduate of the Memorial School of Nursing here in Springfield, which ran from 1899 to 1975,” said SMH president and CEO Jay Roszhart. “That is where her career and lifelong interest in helping others was realized and nurtured. We
UIS adds four electric vehicle charging ports in partnership with City Water, Light and Power
The University of Illinois Springfield, in partnership with Springfield’s City Water, Light and Power (CWLP), has installed four electric vehicle charging ports on campus.UIS’ first charging stations are in Lot I North near The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) with four reserved parking spots. Each has a 240-volt Level 2 charger that delivers 25–35 miles of range per hour. Charging costs will be set by CWLP.“This partnership reflects UIS’ commitment to providing sustainable options that support our
SPRINGFIELD PARK DISTRICT’S GIETL PARK REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT
The Springfield Park District is pleased to announce the official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the redevelopment of Gietl Park. The ribbon cutting for Gietl Park, taking place on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Noon at the splash pad, located in Gietl Park. The Springfield Park District received a $600,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to support this redevelopment project, which included a splash pad, family-friendly park shelter for gatherings and events, concrete plazas and
CEFCU PRESENTS GAMEDAY AT THE MEMORIAL HEALTH CHAMPIONSHIP PRESENTED BY LRS EVENT FOR JUNIORS AGES 8–18
Tournament officials announced the launch of registrations for its annual junior initiative, a fan-favorite youth event: GAMEDAY, presented by CEFCU. This special event will take place on Tuesday, June 23rd, during tournament week. Aimed at juniors ages 8–18, GAMEDAY returns for the eighth year, made possible by the continued support of local sponsor CEFCU. The program is free of charge, but participants must register in advance and is limited to fifty kids. GAMEDAY is a program of the Fellowship of
LLCC honors 2026 Pearson/Gordon Master Teacher and Distinguished Service Awards
Lincoln Land Community College honored recipients of the 2026 Pearson/Gordon Master Teacher and Distinguished Service Awards at the 32nd annual Employee Recognition and Appreciation Ceremony on May 13. Special service anniversaries and retirees were also recognized. Diana Coffman, Ph.D. of Auburn, professor of biology, was named 2026 Drs. Raymond and Ann Pearson and Dr. Claire Gordon Master Teacher. The award is presented to an outstanding full-time LLCC faculty member who practices his or her profession
LLCC offering free Career Quest Camps
Lincoln Land Community College is offering free Career Quest camps this summer to introduce students to a variety of professions. Camps will be held in June and July at the Springfield campus. High school students and recent graduates can explore career pathways in greater depth. The Build & Wire Skills Camp introduces construction and electrical careers, giving participants the opportunity to use professional tools, learn basic wiring and complete a woodworking project. The Hospitality Leadership Launch
Hanson elects Swango, Comerio, Merrihew to boards of directors
Shelby Swango, P.E., a senior vice president and the infrastructure market principal at Hanson Professional Services Inc. who works at the Indianapolis office, has been elected to the board of directors for Hanson Group Inc., the firm’s holding company. Tony Comerio, P.E., CFM, a vice president, the environmental practice lead and chief water resources engineer at Hanson who works at the Springfield, Illinois, headquarters, and Todd Merrihew, a senior vice president and the aviation market principal at
Sports physicals available at select HSHS Medical Group clinics in Springfield
Two HSHS Medical Group clinics in Springfield are offering sports physicals for children 18 years old or younger for a $20 flat rate now through Sept. 30. Now is the time to get the physical completed well before the sports season starts. No appointment is necessary; walk into one of these convenient locations: HSHS Medical Group Multispecialty Care (Pediatrics Only) – Springfield2901 Old Jacksonville Road, Springfield217-698-9722 HSHS Medical Group Priority Care – South MacArthur1836 S. MacArthur
2025 Police Meritorious Awards
The Springfield Police Department held its annual awards ceremony on May 14, 2026. Chief of Police Joseph Behl and PB & PA Unit #5 President Tamara Russell presented the following awards recognizing outstanding work during the 2025 calendar year.Civilian of the Year Awarded to the civilian employee who exhibits a strong work ethic and goes above and beyond their job duties. The 2025 award was presented to Kalvin Gaskill. Kalvin has served the Springfield Police Department for nearly three years as its
Women for Women Awards Record $70,000 to Central Illinois Nonprofits Supporting Women and Children
Women for Women Awards Record $70,000 to Central Illinois Nonprofits Supporting Women and Children SPRINGFIELD, IL – Women for Women awarded a record-breaking $70,000 in grants to three local nonprofits during its 18th Annual Grant Reception on Wednesday, May 13, recognizing organizations addressing some of central Illinois’ most pressing challenges facing women and children.This year’s grants will support programs focused on childhood food insecurity, family support services, and care for children facing
Ambassador Committee Member Spotlight Emmanuel (Manny) Mikaelson
Emmanuel (Manny) MikaelsonPresidentTPH Strategies (217) 241-4597mdavis@tphstrategies.com What products and services does your business offer? Tax Preparation - Individuals, businesses, trust Accounting - Monthly bookkeeping and payroll Tax Advisory What is one thing you'd like for people to know about your business? What I want people to know is that we don’t just file tax returns—we help clients understand the “why” behind their numbers. Too many people operate without clarity around their
Springfield Memorial Hospital Nationally Recognized for Expert Stroke Care
Springfield Memorial Hospital has been awarded the nation’s highest designation for stroke care for a sixth time. The Comprehensive Stroke Center designation, which SMH first earned in 2015, is the highest designation for stroke care given by The Joint Commission, the nonprofit organization that accredits healthcare organizations in the United States. This designation is awarded to hospitals that demonstrate the ability to provide expert, round-the-clock care for the most complex cases of stroke. SMH is
LLCC students win state geography awards
Lincoln Land Community College students, Conrad Charpentier, from Jacksonville; Julia Longstaff, from Springfield; and Ben Armbruster, from Springfield, were honored at the Illinois Geographical Society’s annual awards banquet held in Oglesby on April 24. Charpentier and Longstaff received Illinois Geographical Society’s Outstanding Community College Student Award. This award goes to students who excelled in one or more geography classes. Charpentier, an LLCC baseball player, will be attending the
CWLP ASKING CUSTOMERS TO COMPLETE WATER CONNECTIONS SURVEY
City Water, Light and Power is conducting its tri-annual State-mandated cross-connection (backflow) survey to help identify where non-potable water could enter the public system. Information on the surveys is included in the May CWLP bill statements.This survey, even for those without a lawn irrigation system or a pool, asks for confirmation of certain types of water connections.“Protecting Springfield’s water supply is one of our most important responsibilities, and this survey helps us identify potential
Roberts becomes licensed professional engineer
Evan Roberts, P.E., a structural engineer at Hanson Professional Services Inc.’s Springfield headquarters, recently earned his professional engineer license in Wisconsin. Roberts joined Hanson in 2019 as an intern before joining the company full time in 2021. He assists power generation and other clients, designing wastewater treatment facilities and electrical substation equipment foundations. He received a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Hanson is
LLCC students win gold at Illinois SkillsUSA Competition
Lincoln Land Community College students Daniel Welchel, of Lincoln, and Tamara Rahman, of Rochester, took home gold medals in their respective categories at the 2026 Illinois SkillsUSA Championship held April 24-26 in Peoria. The wins qualify the students to compete at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference to be held in Atlanta, Ga., June 1-5, 2026. Welchel won gold in the heavy equipment operator category. Competitors rotated between six different stations and were evaluated on
Illinois Symphony Guilds Honor Region's Brightest Young Musicians with Annual Scholarship Awards
Springfield and Bloomington–Normal guilds recognize outstanding young talent; combined scholarships total more than $9,000SPRINGFIELD and BLOOMINGTON–NORMAL, Ill. — The Illinois Symphony Orchestra's two regional guilds recently concluded their 2026 Scholarship Auditions, recognizing exceptional young musicians across the region with awards totaling more than $9,000 in combined scholarship support. From a pianist's near-perfect score in Springfield to a violinist's commanding performance of Mozart in
Students at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign raise over $100,000 for HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital
A year of student-led fundraising recently culminated in a high-energy, 10-hour “no-sitting” dance marathon, where the largest student-run philanthropic organization at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign announced it had raised $102,010.13 for HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital. Founded in 2007, IlliniThon sponsors events throughout the year – such as a 5K race, auctions, trivia nights and more – to increase community engagement and raise funds for St. John’s Children’s Hospital, the local
City of Springfield to Remove Downtown Parking Meters
The City of Springfield will begin removing parking meters from the downtown area as part of an ongoing effort to beautify downtown and create a more welcoming experience for residents and visitors alike. Parking downtown is free and will continue to be free. Parking signs will continue to designate the amount of time motorists have in a parking space. Parking enforcement officers will continue to patrol the downtown area and enforce the timed parking zones. Motorists are encouraged to look for signage
CWLP’S WATER DIVISION LEADER LAFOUNTAIN AWARDED FOR WATER INDUSTRY SERVICE
City Water, Light and Power’s Water Division Director Todd LaFountain was presented the Illinois Section of the American Water Works Association’s (ISAWWA’s) Distinguished Service Award at the group’s annual conference last month. The “Clifford H. Fore” award is presented to a member of the ISAWWA whom reflects a commitment to public service above and beyond required duties and has made advancements for the water industry. Heather Schmidt, Interim Executive Director of the ISAWWA, said LaFountain was well
Media Advisory: UIS to hold 55th annual commencement ceremonies May 9
WHAT: The University of Illinois Springfield will hold its 55th annual commencement with two ceremonies in downtown Springfield, organized by academic college. A total of 1,020 students are expected to participate out of the 1,561 students eligible to graduate. WHEN: Saturday, May 912:30 p.m. - Graduates from the College of Health, Science and Technology and the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences5:30 p.m. - Graduates from the College of Business and Management and the College of
UIS study shows Illinois residents split on Chicago Bears relocation
A new analysis from the University of Illinois Springfield Center for State Policy and Leadership, originally published by NPR Illinois, explores Illinois residents’ opinions on the potential relocation of the Chicago Bears and the use of public funding for a new stadium.The analysis is based on a survey of 1,000 Illinois residents conducted in March 2026 after details of a proposed stadium offer from Indiana became public. Respondents were drawn from across the state and selected to be representative of
UIS Performing Arts Center Director Bryan Rives to Retire; Sarah Brewer Named Interim Director
The University of Illinois Springfield announces that Bryan Rives, Director of the UIS Performing Arts Center, will retire effective June 30, 2026, concluding nine years of impactful leadership and service to the performing arts center, the campus and central Illinois community. During his tenure, Rives has played a vital role in elevating the UIS Performing Arts Center as a premier destination for arts and entertainment, while strengthening relationships with patrons, donors, and community partners. His
Springfield Community Connection in Ward 4 with Mayor Buscher and Alderman Larry Rockford
As part of the City of Springfield’s ongoing commitment to community engagement, Mayor Misty Buscher is continuing the Springfield Community Connections ward events with a new session scheduled for Thursday, May 21st, 2026. These events are designed to create more accessible and personal opportunities for residents to engage directly with City leadership. Residents are invited to meet with Mayor Buscher, their Alderperson, and senior staff from key City departments. The sessions offer one-on-one
Andrew Squires Named April Colleague of the Month for Memorial Health System Resources
Memorial Health has named electrician Andrew Squires as the April Colleague of the Month for System Resources.Squires joined Memorial Health in April 2021 and is a key member of the engineering team, where he supports critical electrical systems that keep facilities operating safely and reliably. Colleagues say his blend of technical expertise, calm under pressure and pride in his workmanship sets the standard.“Andrew is the heart and soul of the electric shop in engineering,” wrote the nominator. “He draws
SMART OUTDOOR WATERING TIPS-DRINKING WATER WEEK
City Water, Light and Power (CWLP) strives to help customers get the greatest value for every dollar they spend on water service. Toward this end, the utility works to educate customers on the value of water efficiency and sponsors programs aimed at helping them improve their own water efficiency without requiring them to sacrifice comfort and convenience. In recognition of Drinking Water Week, CWLP is sharing smart outdoor water use tips and is inviting customers to pick up a free rain gauge from its
THE LEVITT AMP SPRINGFIELD MUSIC SERIES ROCKS ITS SEVENTH SEASON IN DOWNTOWN SPRINGFIELD
The Springfield Area Arts Council is excited to announce the return of the Levitt AMP Springfield Music Series to downtown Springfield for a seventh season on Thursday nights starting May 28 through July 30, 2026. Presented by PNC, the 10-week live concert series will feature a diverse lineup of performers from across the world. Entertainment begins at 6:15 p.m. every Thursday in the vacant block north of the Illinois Governor’s Mansion at Fifth St. and Capitol Ave. The newly announced full band lineup is
Westside Market Brings 100+ Vendors and Community Vibes to Springfield This Summer
Fed Kitchen, Papo’s Café and Shayna Gibbons Keeley Boutique are excited to launch the second season of the Westside Market, happening the 2nd Sunday of each month from June through November from 2PM-5PM. This outdoor market will feature 100+ vendors all season long, offering fresh produce, handmade goods, boutique items, local food, and more. Guests can enjoy: - Live music - Beer garden - Kids crafts - Local meat, eggs & produce - Professional micro mini photo sessions - Food & local made
Run, walk for tiniest patients: Little Miracles 5K supports premature, critically ill newborns
Area residents are invited to lace up their running or walking shoes for the smallest lives by participating in the Little Miracles 5K set for 9 a.m. Saturday, June 20 at Springfield’s Washington Park. The yearly event raises funds to enhance care, technology and family support services in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital. The NICU annually serves 850 premature or critically ill infants across an 80-mile radius and 45 counties as the only Level III NICU in the
Amanda Drain Named April Colleague of the Month at Springfield Memorial Hospital
Springfield Memorial Hospital has named Amanda Drain, RN, as the April Colleague of the Month. Drain joined Springfield Memorial Hospital in March 2021 and is appreciated as a dependable, hands-on nurse who supports her team and patients throughout each shift.Colleagues say Drain is the kind of nurse who never hesitates to step in wherever she is needed, whether that means assisting with a patient’s mobility and personal care or taking on extra tasks when staffing is tight.“When I see her on the schedule as
LLCC highlights role in $27.2 billion statewide economic impact, supporting more than 324,000 jobs
Illinois Community College Board data shows that Illinois’ community colleges are a powerful driver of the state’s economy, generating $27.2 billion in total economic impact and supporting 324,273 jobs statewide, according to a recently released economic impact study. The report, “The Economic Value of the Community Colleges of Illinois,” reflects fiscal year 2023-24 data and underscores the critical role community colleges — including Lincoln Land Community College — play in workforce development,
Springfield Police Department to host Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Boys & Girls Club for Outdoor Basketball Court
The Springfield Police Department will host a ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at the Boys & Girls Club of Springfield, Illinois, celebrating the completion of a new outdoor basketball court sponsored by the Springfield Police Department and funded by the Senator Doris Turner Community Connections Grant. This court is one of two community basketball courts funded by the grant, with the second court located at 2108 E. Laurel Street in partnership with The Outlet. These projects
April Price named April Colleague of the Month for Memorial Health Ambulatory Group
April Price, a patient service specialist with Memorial Care in Chatham, has been named April Colleague of the Month for the Memorial Health Ambulatory Group.Multiple colleagues nominated Price for the honor, noting her kindness with patients and her willingness to step in wherever she is needed, including support for the urgent care team in the clinic.“April goes above and beyond for every patient she encounters and even those who aren't technically her patients,” wrote one nominator.Price has worked for
CWLP’S ANNUAL WATER QUALITY REPORT RELEASED
City Water, Light and Power’s newest water quality report is now online for viewing and available to customers, 2025 Water Quality Report In 2025, CWLP-produced drinking water met all USEPA and State of Illinois drinking water health standards and no violations of a contaminant level or any other water quality standard occurred. The information in the report also outlines the multiple levels of monitoring undertaken to evaluate the production of drinking water.CWLP’s Water Division operates a 24-hour
LLCC Commencement planned for May 15
Lincoln Land Community College will conduct commencement exercises on Friday, May 15 at 7:30 p.m. at the Bank of Springfield Center in Springfield. Alexis Bowman of Palmyra has been selected as this year’s commencement speaker. She is earning an associate of applied science degree with an emphasis in construction management. Alexis has served an internship at O’Shea Builders, where she will continue to grow her career upon graduation. Addison Patrick of Chatham and Elle Walker of Springfield are
MEMORIAL HEALTH CHAMPIONSHIP LAUNCHES 2026 TICKET PROMOTION
MEMORIAL HEALTH CHAMPIONSHIP LAUNCHES 2026 TICKET PROMOTIONVISIT SPRINGFIELD TO PROVIDE FREE ADMISSION Springfield, IL — The Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS announces the continuation of its partnership with Visit Springfield to provide free access to all four rounds of this year’s Korn Ferry Tour competition. The tournament will take place June 25 – June 28 at Panther Creek Country Club. “We are excited to welcome fans back for another incredible week of golf,” said Kate Peters,
How Springfield Businesses Use Media Kits to Shape Their Coverage
A media kit — also called a press kit — is a curated package of materials that gives journalists, investors, and partners what they need to write about or evaluate your business without having to track you down. Here's the number that matters: the Public Relations Society of America found that 75% of journalists use media kits when researching stories. For businesses in Springfield — a state capital where policy developments, chamber events, and community milestones create real local coverage
Damon Priddy State Farm Launches ''Red Nets Program'' to Revitalize Community Basketball Courts
Springfield, IL — Damon Priddy State Farm is proud to announce the launch of its Red Nets Program, a community-driven initiative focused on replacing worn and missing basketball nets on courts throughout the Springfield area and surrounding communities. The Red Nets Program is designed to bring new life to local courts, creating a more welcoming and engaging environment for families, kids, and athletes of all ages. By identifying courts in need and installing fresh, vibrant red nets, the initiative aims
Damon Priddy State Farm Sponsors Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library for the Month of March in Partnership with United Way of Central Illinois
Damon Priddy Insurance & Financial Services - a State Farm Agency is proud to partner with the United Way of Central Illinois and its sponsorship of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library for the month of March, reinforcing the agency’s continued commitment to education, literacy, and community investment. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a globally recognized literacy initiative founded by Dolly Parton that provides free, high-quality, age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five. Each
