IT Picks

What do you call someone who hangs around with musicians? A drummer. How many drummers does it take to screw in a light bulb? None. They have machines to do that now. What’s the difference between a drummer and a drum machine? You only have to punch the information into a drum machine once. How […]

The St. Andrew’s Society of Central Illinois Pipes and Drums will play at the Springfield Highland Games competing against almost 20 other bands from around the country. Held in Chatham for the first time, the Games and Festival also offers competitions in ancient athletic events and highland dance, and has public participation events such as […]

If you haven’t seen the new clock tower above the renovated Union Station, a station that now houses a visitor’s center among other organizations, this is the weekend to visit both. Area tourist attractions and tourism agencies will have exhibits set up with gift drawings that you can enter, including prizes such as Amtrak or […]

The race is full, but the party needs you. This annual run and walk, to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and other charities, has gotten so popular that this year’s race roster is at capacity. But that doesn’t mean you can’t check out the action and join the street party and pig roast. Entertainment […]

Forty-nine million Americans are at risk of hunger according to the USDA. Mark your calendar for May 8, because helping those in need just got easier. All you have to do is place non-perishable food items in a bag, set it by your mailbox and your letter carrier will collect the bag. Mail carriers will […]

Do you know what Cinco de Mayo is really about? Learn about the Mexican heritage of many Illinois residents through activities, music and more at this museum’s children’s program. Recommended for children 4-8 years of age, registration is not required. Activities take 30-40 minutes to complete and feature take-home crafts. Super Saturdays at the Museum: […]

While you’re out biking and hiking at Washington Park, or strolling the trails, playing tennis or having a picnic at the children’s playground, take time to stop by the Botanical Garden and sneak a peak at this year’s photography contest winners. Entries each contain some aspect of Washington Park in their composition. First place winners […]

Joining the Springfield Ballet Company on stage and dancing in tights for a humorous evening dubbed Men in Tights are local business leaders and personalities: Ed Cully of Michel & Cully Claims Service; Kirk Farah, WMAY; Randy Martin, M.D., Springfield cardiologist; Pat Phillips, Springfield High School; Paul LaMantia, LaMantia Creative; Joshua Ratz and Jake Smith, […]

Silly Joel is a five-member Billy Joel cover band from Illinois that not only performs rockin’ music but sometimes pops out into Weird Al-style high jinks. They perform May 1 at the Hoogland to celebrate the famous singer/songwriter who was born May 9, 1949. Organizers promise costumes, merriment, silliness and special guests. The band includes: […]

Steve Stark, Seibushi, of Kansas and Bill Gossett, Koubushi, of Missouri will teach advanced concepts and principals of the ancient life protection arts of Okinawa karate. Masters with more than 30 years of training, both have traveled the world with Taika Oyata teaching. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Following the seminar, Stark and Gossett will […]

May 1 arrives with the second Haymarket Festival at Douglas Park. This annual music festival and celebration of the working man includes performances by: Sarah Schneider Band, Kerwin & Lang, Joe Frew & the 2 Live Crew and Gypsy Collabo. Speakers include radio personality Greg Bishop, retired union organizer Al Pieper, and UIS Professor Dr. […]

Rain or shine, the city of Springfield celebrates Earth and Arbor Day on April 24 with a downtown Earth Awareness Fair. Information on eco-friendly choices such as recycling, alternative transportation, energy efficiency, native plants/ habitat and water conservation will be available through exhibits, speakers, games and activities. At noon residents gather for a bike rally, […]