Recreational cannabis is a growth industry, and Springfield resident Chris Stone plans to take full advantage of the potential behind the once-banned substance. “Eight percent of the population uses cannabis regularly, so how do we get to the other 92 percent?” Stone said. “There is a large majority of people out there over 21 years […]
Cover Story
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Transgender turmoil
The two transgender women at the center of a nationwide controversy involving the Springfield YMCA say they would never act inappropriately in locker rooms. And they don’t want to be forced to use changing areas separate from other women – a practice that YMCA officials said would violate state law. “I am a woman,” Candice […]
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Repurposing MacMurray Hall
Two subjects that are as old as civilization are being taught in a building on the former MacMurray College campus in Jacksonville by neighbors who are injecting local enthusiasm into their lifelong passions. Michael Woods and Tim Smith have purchased the old MacMurray Hall building, a large 1920s-era brick-and-stone science classroom structure on East College […]
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Revitalizing Robin Roberts Stadium
The crack of a bat, the cheer of a crowd and smiles exchanged between a grandparent and child weave a tapestry of memories on Springfield’s north end. But that tapestry is getting frayed and the future of Robin Roberts Stadium is being pondered. Is it a valued amenity or white elephant? Last year, the Lucky […]
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Growing a garden for children
Springfield will soon have a new children’s nature play area unique to central Illinois. Lincoln Memorial Garden (LMG) is undertaking its largest project since opening the first nature center in 1965. A simulated stream, water log tunnel, sensory table, water pump, natural musical instrument, footbridge, observation areas, outdoor sink and log climbing structures are some […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Grillin’ and Chillin’
Our Grillin’ and Chillin’ issue has plenty of ideas to celebrate the holiday weekend. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a staycation, we have information about activities at the lake, central Illinois water parks and things to do right here in Springfield, plus a community calendar that includes holiday festivities and where to see […]
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Bringing health care to community gardens
When Kaye Barnes and her coworkers in purple T-shirts hand out free produce as they walk around a neighborhood on Springfield’s east side, residents are thankful but also taken aback that these strangers care about them. “They are sort of stunned, shocked and literally surprised,” said Barnes, a community health worker in the Access to […]
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Juneteenth
This year’s Juneteenth celebrations in Springfield include six days of events that highlight African American cultural contributions with live music events, art exhibitions, presentations, kids’ activities and more. Our annual Juneteenth issue looks at the origins of the holiday and how area organizations are expanding their outreach to share Black culture and history. Related Related […]
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Habitat helps families, one homebuyer at a time
Habitat for Humanity of Sangamon County is nearing completion of its newest project on South Glenwood Avenue in Springfield. The four-bedroom, three-bath home is being built on a vacant lot with partial sponsorship from the nearby Westminster Presbyterian Church. It is the 119th project for the nonprofit Christian ministry which opened its doors in Springfield […]
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The Pet Issue
Come downtown for the First Friday pet parade on Friday, June 2,. Plus, plenty of downtown businesses are pet-friendly year round. This year’s pet issue also includes questions to ask when considering dog boarding or day care, what to do when you find a stray kitten and how to deal with the odors pets leave […]
Posted inSpecial Issues
Summerguide 2023
Whether you’re planning an out-of-state road trip or want to find a nearby outdoor oasis, we have ideas for you. Perhaps you’re hoping to catch on your reading list – we asked several notable Springfield readers to share their suggestions for good books to tackle this summer. And when the kids start saying they’re bored […]
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Still building Athens
Forty-eight years ago, when Illinois Times had just opened for business, its very first cover story featured the Menard County community of Athens: “Rebuilding Athens: How to save a small town,” Sept. 18, 1975. There was a movement at the time to rebuild the waning small town, and optimism reigned because Athens, 16 miles northwest […]
