Bad news seems to dominate, but fortunately, there is good news worth celebrating here in the capital city.
The Springfield Business Journal, sister publication to Illinois Times, recently named the 2022 Forty under 40 – outstanding men and women with highly diverse careers who are giving back to the community and helping Springfield reach its full potential.
In a spirt of ecumenical cooperation, Grace Lutheran Church has been worshiping in the First Presbyterian Church sanctuary after the steeple at Grace Lutheran at Seventh and Capitol was struck by lightning and the threat of falling stones caused the church to be shuttered.
The Outlet celebrated graduations of four mentees at the end of the school year and a yearlong partnership with District 186. Outlet mentors worked with teachers at Douglas school to identify how mentorship could support students and build positive relationships. Mentors worked with students in the classroom and in teacher-led social/emotional learning sessions, and engaged with students outside the classroom. Outlet mentors participated in 204 one-on-one sessions and 531 social/emotional learning sessions with Douglas students.
Springfield Art Association summer camp students built a second giant wooden troll at Lincoln Memorial Garden. Aco, meaning one who helps or defends mankind, resides in the Cawley Meadow across from the garden's main entrance.
When the Illinois State Fair canceled its annual professional art competition, Betsy Dollar offered to host the exhibit at the Springfield Art Association, where she is executive director. The exhibit, No Place to Show, with more than 60 pieces from artists across the state, is on display in the M.G. Nelson Family Gallery through Aug. 6.
