Aug 01 Thursday
Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics for a free, family-friendly outdoor concert on the lawn in the block adjacent to the Illinois Governor's Mansion.Come join us for the FINAL concert of the Levitt AMP SPI Music Series with Radio Free Honduras on August 1 with 🎆FIREWORKS🎆sponsored by the City of Springfield for the grand finale! The band is a diverse collective of Chicago musicians, all united under one goal – supporting the artistry of Charlie Baran and bringing this tremendous talent into the spotlight where it belongs. Before moving to the United States, Charlie was a founding member of the legendary Honduran musical group Banda Blanca, who’s song “Sopa de Caracol” became the #1 Billboard Top Latin Songs hit in 1992.The Jose Gobbo Trio, a central Illinois band, will be the opening act.
Sep 12 Thursday
The University of Illinois Springfield Center for Lincoln Studies in partnership with NPR Illinois invites you to attend the Mary and James Beaumont Endowed Lincoln Legacy Lecture Series featuring Steve Inskeep and Dr. Sarah E. Anderson speaking on the topic of Lincoln and Political Conflict.
Steve Inskeep is a cohost of NPR's Morning Edition. His search for the full story behind the news has led him to history. In his new book, "Differ We Must: How Lincoln Succeeded in a Divided America," Inskeep explores how Lincoln navigated political conflict and repeatedly engaged with those who disagreed with him.
Dr. Sarah E. Anderson is a Professor and Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management at the University of California, Santa Barbara. She studies how the public and politics influences policy. Her recent book, "Rejecting Compromise: Legislators’ Fear of Primary Voters," focuses on why legislators reject compromise.
Sep 17 Tuesday
The Springfield 'Un-Debate' and 'Ask a Voter' event will explore reproductive health.
Candidate debates rarely enlighten the electorate. Instead, NPR Illinois, the University of Illinois System Institute of Government and Public Affairs, and the League of Women Voters will explore critical issues likely to motivate voting in the 2024 presidential election.
The main event will be a panel discussion open to the public about the issue of reproductive health. Experts on the issue will lay out the facts and policies with opportunity for civil discourse with attendees with the goal of minimizing misinformation.
A select group of registrants will be selected to participate in the 'Ask a Voter' pre-event. Selected to diversely represent our regional population, invitees on all sides of the issue will civilly engage each other to explore why their vote may be determined by reproductive health. When registering, indicate your willingness to participate in 'Ask a Voter' and complete the questionnaire. A group for 8-12 from each side will be invited then asked to share their experience with during the panel session.
Additional Un-Debates include:Foreign Policy - Urbana - early September 2024Immigration - Chicago - October 3, 2024
Sep 25 Wednesday
Join the UIS Center for State Policy and Leadership for its annual showcase of how it interacts with and affects policies. This year's event is moderated by NPR Illinois' Sean Crawford and will include a live version of State Week looking at the year in Illinois policy and how Illinois may be affected by the 2024 national elections. The Government Public Service Internship (GPSI) awards will also be featured.
Nov 07 Thursday
2024 marks the 19th class of high school seniors NPR Illinois will ask to share what they believe. This I Believe was started by radio journalist Edward R. Murrow in 1951 to allow anyone able to distil the guiding principles by which they lived.
This year, another culminating event will occur, details and location to be announced soon.
NPR Illinois will air the essays in their authors’ voices the last two weeks of October (at approximately 7:45 am and 4:45 pm). The audio will also be streamed at nprillinois.org. Previous essays are available on the website at nprillinois.org under the “Community Voices” tab.
The Rotary Club of Springfield Sunrise has partnered with NPR Illinois since the program began and provides a monetary award to the selected authors. The Illinois Times also provides support to the program by printing the essays in the weekly paper.
Nov 26 Tuesday
Save the date for our annual celebration of you!
Venue, registration, and more posted soon!.
Jul 25 Thursday
Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics for a free, family-friendly outdoor concert on the lawn in the block adjacent to the Illinois Governor's Mansion.The Cactus Blossoms bring their alternative country jams to the Levitt Amp SPI stage on July 25! Be sure to invite your family, friends and neighbors to join you at this event!Dogs at Large, an indie country band, will be the opening act.
Jul 26 Friday
Join the Citizens Club of Springfield as we hear from community members who were directly impacted by the Adams Street fire. The speakers will address issues such as what initially attracted them to downtown? What was the sense of community in this area prior to the fire? What would they like to see happen in this area going forward? Speakers include the property owner of the site of the fire; founder of The Cat Pyjamas Cat Cafe, which was located in the building; the President of Moving Pillsbury Forward, which stored artifacts at the site, and a nearby business entrepreneur.
Jul 27 Saturday
Only 1 hour from most suburbsCOME ALONG ON OUR KAYAK TOURS AT THE #1 STATE PARK IN THE MIDWEST REGION WITH 18 CANYONS AND TOWERING ST PETERS SANDSTONE BLUFFSEvery Saturday/Sunday and Holidays 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm,1pm,2pmCOME WITH US & SEE WHAT HIKERS CAN’T SEE!Looking for an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of kayaking with the stunning natural beauty of Starved Rock? Look no further than our guided kayak tour! With expert guides to lead the way, you’ll paddle through pristine waters and marvel at breathtaking rock formations as you soak up the sights and sounds of one of Illinois’ most beloved state parks. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-time paddler, this tour is an experience you won’t soon forget. So why wait? Book your spot now and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Starved Rock from a whole new perspective!This starved rock tour is not to be missed! Come see Towering St. Peter’s Sandstone Bluffs, soaring Bald Eagles, Pelicans and beautiful Lotus flowers. Our Tour guides will dazzle you with educational points about the area and entertaining tips. If you have been to this wonderful state park you know how beautiful it is. With its majestic St. Peters sandstone bluffs towering over the Illinois river to the canyons carved out deep along the shore line this state park has been consistently rated #1 in Illinois with over 3million visitors a year. For this kayak tour we will be kayaking for approx. 2 hours. The views from your kayak are amazing!Exploring Kayaking and Camping Adventures near ChicagoDiscover Premier Kayaking ExperiencesEmbark on an unforgettable kayaking adventure near Chicago with our high-quality single Perception Carolina 12ft & 14ft touring kayaks.Guided Kayak Tours for Enhanced ExplorationEnhance your kayaking experience with our guided kayak tours, available every Saturday, Sunday, and holidays. These tours offer comprehensive instruction and safety lessons before setting out on the water. Our knowledgeable guides lead small groups to explore the scenic beauty of Chicago’s sandy shores, ensuring a memorable adventure for all participants.Flexible Kayak RentalsFor those seeking independent exploration, kayak rentals are available seven days a week from May 1st to Labor Day. Weekends April, Sept and Oct. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, our fleet of kayaks caters to all skill levels, providing the perfect opportunity to discover the wonders of Chicago from a unique perspective.Immerse Yourself in Nature with CampingUnwind and recharge after your kayaking adventures with our waterfront camping options along the Illinois River, directly across from Starved Rock State Park. Choose from tent camping, pop-up camping, or tear-drop camping at our Starved Rock location, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural landscape.Seamless Integration of Kayaking and CampingExperience the perfect blend of outdoor activities by bringing your own kayak for use on the river. Our kayak-friendly campground ensures that campers can seamlessly transition from exploring the waterways to relaxing under the stars. Please note that all individuals launching from our locations must wear a PFD (life jacket).Accessible Day Trips for Non-CampersFor those interested in a day of kayaking without camping or renting equipment, our location offers convenient access with a $10 launch fee. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to kayaking, our facilities provide everything you need for a memorable outdoor adventure near Chicago.
Jul 28 Sunday
Jul 30 Tuesday
Two hundred years ago, on August 2, 1824, Illinois conducted the most consequential election in its history. The election would determine if Illinois became an unrestricted 'slave state'. The election came about when the legislature passed a joint resolution calling for the people, at the next general election, to approve holding a constitutional convention to modify the 1818 Constitution. The six-year-old constitution contained nebulose language regarding slavery, that was inserted to avoid congressional debate when reviewing Illinois petition for statehood. The proslavery elements were strong, contained the majority in the legislature, and felt confident the citizens would approve holding a convention. The opposition was organized, well-funded, and led by the new governor Edward Coles, a newly arrived easterner who have served both Presidents Madison and Monroe. The campaign lasted 18 months and was controversial and violent. The campaign also presented a challenge for the new self-rule democracy - the people deciding the direction of government.
You're invited to "brown bag it" and join Bernard Sieracki for his special lunch hour presentation on Tuesday, July 30, from Noon-1pm in the ALPLM library's multi-purpose room as he reviews the 1824 campaign, the colorful characters involved, and the future consequences for Illinois regarding slavery.
This is a free program. Advance registration is not required.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Bernard Sieracki was an Illinois lobbyist for forty years. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois-Chicago. Upon retirement he taught as an adjunct professor at UIC. He is the author of "A Just Cause: The Impeachment and Removal of Governor Rod Blagojevich," and is currently finishing "Attempting Democracy" about the Illinois Legislature in the 19th Century.
GriefShare 13 Week Support/Recovery ProgramNo matter what the circumstances, grief is a painful process. GriefShare is a grief support group for people dealing with the death of a family member or friend. GriefShare is a safe, welcoming place where people understand the difficult emotions of grief. Over 13 weeks, you’ll find relief and comfort as you learn what to expect in the days ahead and how to navigate your personal grief process. Since there are no neat, orderly stages of grief, you’ll learn helpful ways of coping with grief, in all its unpredictability and gain solid support each step of the way. GriefShare is composed of 3 parts: video, workbook & sharing. There is no cost for this program. Classes will be held Tuesday evenings 6-8pm in the Parish Hall at 515 S MacArthur, starting June 4, 2024. Preregistration is requested. Please contact Joleen Hoff at #217-899-9418 or via email at trinitygriefshare@yahoo.com.
Join ALPLM Manuscripts Curator Christopher Schnell for Tales from the Vault and a look the intimate side of the American Civil War by exploring the letters, reminiscences, and battlefield relics of Illinois soldiers who fought at the Battle of Brices Cross Roads (a.k.a. Battle of Guntown).
On June 10, 1864, a small Union army, suffering in the Southern heat and bogged down in the Mississippi mud, clashed with Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest’s cavalry at the remote crossroads near Guntown, Mississippi. Even though the major actions of the war were unfolding in other states, this relatively small battle in northern Mississippi played an important role in the eventual success of the Union’s invasion of Georgia and capture of Atlanta. Nine regiments from Illinois, over one-third of the Union soldiers at Brices Cross Roads, hailed from the Prairie State and by opening the vault and exploring their personal stories we can better understand the cost of their sacrifice.
This will be a “hybrid” event with the opportunity to attend in-person or virtually. The program will take place in our library’s multi-purpose room on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 12pm. The event is free; reservations are not required.
To watch virtually via Facebook Live, please go to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Facebook page. Open the page at the appointed time and scroll to the post highlighting the live event. Once you’re there, simply click on the image and watch the live video stream.Tales from the Vault is a collaboration between the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and the Illinois State Museum.
Aug 03 Saturday
Anyone who thinks learning is boring clearly hasn’t been to the ALPLM’s Back to School Bash! Join our education team and community partners in Union Square Park for a fun filled, hands-on day of games and learning as we get pumped to start the upcoming school year.
Free haircuts for students • Story time and hands-on activities • Face Painting * Conservation and recycling activities • Special visits from first responders • Safety education for youth and adult * Explore a fire truck, police car, and EMT Ambulance!
The event will be offered, rain or shine; in case of inclement weather, all activities will be moved into the Library.
Aug 04 Sunday