HAVE EMPATHY Thank you to Illinois Times for reporting on the 50501 protests (“Protests continue in Springfield,” May 8). Reading the online comments was appalling – so much hate and vitriol right here in Mr. Lincoln’s hometown. Trump’s efforts to turn us against each other are clearly working. Those of us that support due process […]
Illinois Times Staff
Posted inWatch Public Meetings
Springfield’s next police chief and downtown plans
Meet Springfield’s likely new police chief: hear about his background, his focus on officer wellness, and plans for supporting both new and veteran officers—including ideas for in-house mental health support and better fitness programs. Council members pressed for more minority leadership, stronger community policing, and action on speeding complaints. Downtown revitalization is picking up steam, […]
Posted inWatch Public Meetings
Lift assist fees approved, Growth Alliance funding debated
The council took a big step by approving new fees for lift assists at care facilities, but not before a heated debate. Some members pushed for targeting only the worst offenders, while others worried about costs being passed to residents. The new rule gives each facility two free calls a year and bans charging individual […]
Posted inArts & Culture
APL Upscale Collectible Sale
This event is the Animal Protective League’s largest and longest-running fundraiser and offers a chance to find some upscale goods for a good price and also help animals in APL’s care at the same time. For sale will be donated items collected through April 26. The event includes a bake sale, silent auction and prizes […]
Posted inOpinion
Letters to the editor 05-01-25
FUELING STIGMA U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s recent claim that autism “destroys families” is not only offensive, it’s profoundly harmful. This rhetoric reflects a damaging, outdated view that stigmatizes neurodivergent individuals and adds unnecessary pain to families already navigating a complex world. Autism doesn’t destroy families. What causes harm […]
Posted inWatch Public Meetings
25-year solar contract, assisted living fees and Wyndham fallout
Springfield council paused to honor the lives lost in Chatham, then got right to work on some big decisions. A $13 million-a-year solar contract sparked debate about the city’s clean energy future, how it fits into long-term plans, and whether residents are being heard before major spending. Council members pushed for more public engagement and […]
Posted inSpecial Issues
2025 Home and Garden
This year’s Spring Home & Garden issue looks at remodeling trends, DIY household cleaners, upcoming plant sales and seed swaps, and more. Make your list now for the projects you plan to tackle this spring. Related Stories
Posted inArts & Culture
The Cher Show at the UIS Performing Arts Center
Three women bring icon’s story, songs to the stage Some say superstars come and go but Cher is forever. So it certainly appears. In this Tony Award-winning musical, three women portray different phases of the iconic singer’s life: “the kid starting out, the glam pop star and the icon.” They’ll bring 35 hit songs from […]
Posted inSpecial Issues
Home and Garden Calendar
Ongoing Spring Migration Bird Hikes Thursdays, 8-9:30am. Through May 15. Matt Hayes of the Illinois Audubon Society will lead hikes looking for migratory species as well as resident species. Free. Adams Wildlife Sanctuary, 2315 Clear Lake Ave., 217-544-2473. April April Wildflower Walks Saturdays in April, 10am and 2pm. Guided walks on Elkhart Hill presented by […]
Posted inWatch Public Meetings
Council dedicates funds to east side growth
The Springfield City Council meeting was packed with big decisions and some heated moments: – Emotional farewells for the police and fire chiefs after nearly three decades of service each. – A zoning request for a longer dock on Lake Springfield drew strong warnings about changing the rules — yet the council approved the extension […]
Posted inWatch Public Meetings
Council debates public comment rules and a bus bench contract
Public comment rules are under scrutiny. Corporation Counsel Greg Moredock explained the Open Meetings Act and answered questions about what changes might be allowed. – Ward 3 Ald. Roy Williams raised questions about political signage on bus benches. Could new regulations be on the horizon? – Ward 2 Ald. Shawn Gregory emphasized the need for […]
Posted inSpecial Issues
The capital city
Illinois State Capitol 401 S. Second St. 217-782-2099 Illinois boasts a stunning State Capitol, and in recent years the legislative chambers and multifloor west wing were magnificently restored. It is well worth visiting this National Historic Landmark. Construction began on the sixth and current Illinois Capitol in 1868 after officials determined that more space was […]
