A summerlong guide to fun in the capital city! - FREE May 26-June 1, 2022 Vol. 47, No. 45 - Illinois Times
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FREE May 26-June 1, 2022 • Vol. 47, No. 45
A summerlong guide to
fun in the capital city!
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Su
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May 26-June 1, 2022 | Illinois Times | 1
2 | www.illinoistimes.com | May 26-June 1, 2022
NEWS
$48 million in new construction for Springfield Clinic
New pediatric center, lab and main campus addition in the works
MEDICAL | Dean Olsen
About $48 million in construction work is Clinic’s continued commitment to the central
underway to expand, improve and update Illinois region,” Cal Thomas, chief development
services for Springfield Clinic patients needing officer, said in the release. “Facility upgrades like
pediatric, laboratory and imaging services, clinic this are an investment into our community of
officials say. caring.”
“At the end of the day, this is all driven by the In addition, a new one-story medical
patients,” Tom Fitch, vice president of facilities, laboratory will be built on the site of the former
real estate and construction, told Illinois Times. Family Service Center at 730 E. Vine St. The site
“It all comes back to listening to the patient.” is one block north of South Grand Avenue and
The clinic’s pace of construction – which between South Seventh and South Eighth streets.
includes a new $20 million pediatric center, a The clinic bought the property from the
new $17 million medical laboratory and an $11 longtime Springfield social-service agency for
million, four-story addition to the main campus $750,000 in April, according to Sangamon
on South Sixth Street – hasn’t slowed during the County property records. Family Service Center
COVID-19 pandemic, he said. has since moved to 919 S. Spring St.
The scope of the work involving the clinic is Springfield Clinic plans to demolish the former Family Service Center building at Eighth and Vine streets and The existing building will be torn down
in line with other major projects that have taken construct a 25,000-square-foot medical laboratory. RENDERING COURTESY OF FARNSWORTH GROUP before construction begins this summer, Fitch
place over the past two decades, Fitch said. He said. Completion of the new lab building is
cited the clinic’s partnerships with hospitals in expected in the late summer or early fall of
Springfield, Jacksonville, Taylorville, Lincoln and and “child-focused” environment for pediatric and equipment, will allow the clinic to reduce 2023.
Macomb to expand physician office space and patients and their families, Fitch said. wait times for services, Fitch said. The 25,000-square-foot lab will replace the
outpatient services since 2000. The design of the building – which will A growing demand for certain services is medical lab currently in the basement of the
Springfield Clinic is a physician-led, include 60 new exam rooms, an on-site lab and related to both medical technology that helps clinic’s Main Campus East complex at 1025 S.
multispecialty medical group based in Springfield pediatric urgent care area – will reduce fear and people live longer and to the aging of the “baby Sixth St. The new facility will allow the clinic to
with more than 650 doctors and advanced stress for the increasing number of children being boom” generation of people in their late 50s accommodate the growing number of lab tests
practitioners that serves more than 20 counties treated for certain illnesses such as childhood through mid-70s, he said. needed by patients and get those tests processed
in central Illinois. The clinic is a privately held diabetes, Fitch said. “There’s not excess capacity in this market,” quicker, Fitch said.
business that doesn’t disclose its annual revenues, The building will consolidate pediatrician he said. “I think it’s going to be a great addition to
and it is one of the few major health care offices currently on the second floor of Newer facilities also help Springfield Clinic that area of Springfield,” he said. “It will be a
providers in the Springfield area that isn’t tax- Springfield Clinic Wabash, 2200 W. Wabash recruit and retain doctors and other health care state-of-the-art clinical lab.”
exempt. Ave., and the Springfield Clinic Pediatric and professionals to central Illinois, Fitch said. The new one-story building will also
The clinic will pay $2.8 million in real- Adolescent Center, 2532 Farragut Drive. The Springfield Clinic’s statements about the accommodate drive-through lab testing that
estate taxes in 2022, $2.3 million of which offices that are vacated at the Wabash location importance of preserving and improving health became popular during the COVID-19
represents properties in Sangamon County, clinic will provide more space for other clinic doctors, care in the region have been in the news in pandemic. Once completed, the site will replace
spokesman Zach Kerker said. Fitch said. The clinic hasn’t decided what will recent months during the clinic’s ongoing a drive-through testing site now at 701 S. Sixth,
The most recently announced project is a happen to the Farragut Drive location. contract dispute with Blue Cross and Blue Shield Fitch said.
new two-story, 40,000-square-foot, pediatrics The need for additional space is a trend of Illinois. The dispute resulted in the clinic’s On the north side of Main Campus East, the
building that will be built on a former farm fueling other construction work as the clinic adds doctors and other health care providers no longer four-story addition is expected to open by the
field at 3500 Conifer Drive on Springfield’s west doctors and associated providers such as nurse remaining in Blue Cross’ preferred-provider end of 2022 and will cover 36,000 square feet.
side. The $20 million project, to be completed practitioners and physician assistants, Fitch said. network after November 2021. Only half of the building will be fully built out
in fall 2023, will create a more “family friendly” The additional space, paired with personnel Kerker has said Blue Cross is “undervaluing and furnished so the rest can be served for future
our market to increase its own profits” in needs, Fitch said.
contract negotiations, while Blue Cross officials The “driving force” behind the additional
say reimbursement rates charged by the clinic are space will be to reduce waits for patients to
Editor’s note too high. receive scans ranging from magnetic resonance
Fitch said the clinic’s construction projects imaging to computerized tomography and
A shiny new fire station at 11th and Ash in Springfield will lift the economy and spirit of the in central Illinois benefit patients and add to ultrasound, he said.
Harvard Park neighborhood. Thank you Mayor Jim Langfelder, Fire Chief Brandon Blough and the the property tax base, lessening the tax burden Design work for the main campus addition
Springfield City Council for sticking with the plan to build there, despite the need for mitigation of on homeowners in the long run. Additionally, and lab is being handled by the Springfield office
hazardous materials left from the demolished Honeywell-Hobbs manufacturing plant. If the city the purchase of materials for the $48 million in of Farnsworth Group, while the Farnsworth
doesn’t take on environmental remediation of the site, nobody else will, leaving that full city block projects will generate more than $2.3 million in Group and St. Louis-based Lawrence Group are
a desert. Harvard Park is home to one of Springfield’s most active neighborhood associations, local and state sales taxes, Kerker said. designing the pediatrics building. The general
demonstrating that residents care. Harvard Park Elementary, down the street from the site, is The construction also fuels the economy contractor for all of the projects is O’Shea
one of Springfield’s largest and neediest schools, with some of its smartest kids. First Church through local jobs for construction workers, he Builders in Springfield.
of the Brethren, across the street, just celebrated its centennial and is looking forward to many said. For example, a news release from the clinic
more years of compassionate service. Springfield needs to revitalize its old neighborhoods, and says the pediatrics building will create about 200 Dean Olsen is a senior staff writer for Illinois
Harvard Park is a great place to invest. –Fletcher Farrar, editor construction jobs during the project. Times. He can be reached at dolsen@illinoistimes.
“This new pediatric facility shows Springfield com or 217-679-7810.
May 26-June 1, 2022 | Illinois Times | 3
4 | www.illinoistimes.com | May 26-June 1, 2022
NEWS
Black Lives Matter Springfield
awards scholarships
Annual solidarity car procession through downtown is May 29
COMMUNITY Karen Ackerman Witter
Three local high school seniors are each
receiving $1,500 scholarships to further
their education, thanks to Black Lives After a century, Joe Miller with his wife, Valerie
Matter Springfield. The initial goal was
to provide $500 scholarships; however,
the organization tripled that amount as Springfield runner
a result of community participation in
“dine to donate” fundraisers and direct wins 100-mile race
donations to the scholarship fund.
CAP CITY | Karen Ackerman Witter
Locally-owned AzTca and Boone’s were
the participating restaurants.
The scholarship winners are Mikaela Springfield may have the Fat Ass 5K, but
Lindsay, Springfield High School, who Georgia has Dumbass events, sponsored by
will be going to the University of Illinois the Dahlonega Ultra Marathon Association
Chicago to study computer science in northern Georgia. Springfield’s Joe Miller,
and design; Tori Taylor, Rochester an ultramarathoner, competed in the Cruel
High School, going to Washington Jewel 100 Dumbass event May 13-15 in the
University in St. Louis to major in Chattahoochee National Forest. He finished
biology/pre-med; and Leah Newman, in first place with a time of 23 hours, 40
Lanphier High School, headed to Illinois minutes and 42 seconds. He was an hour
Leah Newman, Lanphier High School Mikaela Lindsay, Springfield High School
State University majoring in business and 10 minutes ahead of the second-place
administration. finisher. Only four people have finished in
BLM Springfield will recognize the under 24 hours in the history of the race.
three scholarship winners Sunday, May Starting in Vogel State Park in Blairsville,
29, at the third annual Black Lives Georgia, the out-and-back course is over
Matter Solidarity Procession beginning trails and mountain roads, with a 33,000-
at 1 p.m. The procession starts at the foot elevation climb and descent. “Cruel”
BOS Center/Sangamon County Building is a fitting name since the 100-mile race
parking lot, with a procession through is actually closer to 106-108 miles. There
downtown. were 129 finishers, and the last finished in
Sunshine Clemons, cofounder of just under 48 hours. Fifty more started but
BLM Springfield, organized the first didn’t finish.
procession in June 2020. A thousand Miller estimates he burned 10,000
peaceful protesters joined the vehicle calories during the race. He consumed lots
procession in the early days of the of specially formulated energy foods, gels
pandemic to rally against the killing and an electrolyte drink, as well as pickles
of George Floyd and police brutality. (they are salty), maple syrup and boiled
This third annual event is in honor of potatoes. A headlamp and trekking poles
Breonna Taylor, Dreasjon Reed and were part of his gear. The race started
George Floyd, along with the other men at noon, which is not very typical and a
and women killed at the hands of law welcome change from getting up before
enforcement. sunrise to start a race. The experience
Community members are encouraged included single-track trails, lush green
to decorate their vehicles and create signs forests, mountain roads, steep ascents and
to show love, support and hope for the steeper descents, 20 aid stations and running
cause. Black Lives Matter Springfield in the dark with the light of a headlamp. “I
works to nurture, protect and empower don’t recall much flat terrain in the last 30
the Black community. More information miles,” said Miller. “When the sun came up,
is on the BLM Springfield FaceBook it provided a nice boost of natural energy.”
page: https://www.facebook.com/ A day after winning, Miller was quick
BLMSPI. to say, “I had so much fun out there! The
Tori Taylor, Rochester High School course is so brutally beautiful.”
May 26-June 1, 2022 | Illinois Times | 5
6 | www.illinoistimes.com | May 26-June 1, 2022
NEWS
Dream Center moves closer to reality
Destiny Church plans to purchase two additional buildings on former Benedictine campus
NONPROFITS | Dean Olsen
The pastor of Destiny Church hopes to
raise “several hundred thousand dollars” so a
nonprofit founded by the church can open
a “Dream Center” this fall to provide free or
low-cost vocational classes to young people in
Springfield.
“It’s something that needs to happen in our
community,” Rev. Eric Hansen told Illinois
Times.
The Dream Center would operate out
of Dawson and Weaver halls on the former
Springfield campus of Benedictine University
that once housed Ursuline Academy.
Destiny Church, 1425 N. Sixth St., is
holding services on the campus and plans to
purchase its space. Through Dream Center
Springfield, Destiny Church plans to also buy
Dawson Hall, a three-story building at 1500 N.
Fifth St., as well as the connected Weaver Hall,
The Dream Center would operate out of Dawson and Weaver halls on the former Springfield campus of
from a nonprofit founded by former Sangamon Benedictine University PHOTO BY DEAN OLSEN
County Circuit Clerk Tony Libri.
Libri and his wife, Ann, are buying
most buildings on the 25-acre campus from Hansen said he had been talking with affiliated with a church, the people served won’t
Benedictine, a Catholic university based people at Destiny Church about his idea for be required to take part in religious services,
in Lisle, for the couple’s nonprofit, called Dream Center Springfield for the past two and people of all faiths and backgrounds would
Preservation Inc. years. They have supported the concept, as be welcome, Hansen said.
Libri wouldn’t disclose the total amount of has the neighborhood’s representative on the Dream Center would start out small,
money that will be paid for the buildings and Springfield City Council, Ward 5 Alderwoman purchasing Dawson and Weaver halls and
properties. Lakeisha Purchase, he said. renovating a handful of classrooms among
Libri said two of the buildings already have “I like to build things,” said Hansen, 59, a the total 44,000 square feet of space in both
been sold to other developers. The structures Bloomington native who grew up in Pekin and buildings, he said.
include the George M. Brinkerhoff House, has lived in Springfield with his family the past Dream Center would provide after-school
which has been developed into office space, 30 years. instruction on various trades to high-school-
and King’s Daughters Home, which may be Hansen is chief executive officer of Dream age students to get them interested in jobs and
renovated into an assisted-living site, Libri said. Center Springfield, which he said will be prepare them for trade schools, Hansen said.
Libri, who is retired from government work, modeled somewhat on Dream Center Peoria. He said he plans to reach out to Springfield
including a stint as Sangamon County auditor, That organization is based in a former YMCA School District 186 and Midwest Technical
said he supports Dream Center’s goals. building in downtown Peoria and offers a Institute to discuss ways Dream Center could
“Our youth is the most important gift we variety of programs for low-income people and work with them.
can give to the future,” he said. youth. Plans also call for Dawson Hall, originally
Hansen’s nondenominational Christian At Dream Center Springfield, however, built in 1929, and Weaver Hall, built in
church moved to the site on Springfield’s north Hansen said: “Our primary purpose will be 1961, to be used for Bible school classes for
end and held its first service there in March education. It will be an educational center.” adults interested in Christian vocations and
after spending about $100,000 on painting, The Peoria nonprofit organization’s annual ministry, and for elementary and secondary
carpeting and new signage. revenue was $2.6 million in the fiscal year school students interested in careers in science,
Hansen started Destiny Church in 2017 ending in December 2020, according to the technology, engineering and mathematics.
after leaving iWorship Center, previously group’s IRS Form 990 report. Hansen said he hopes within a week or
known as the First Assemblies of God Church. Peoria’s Dream Center is associated with two to hire an executive director for Dream
IWorship Center, 3200 Shaler Road, continues Riverside Community Church in Peoria, said Center. That person will focus on startup
to operate under different pastoral leadership John King, retired pastor and a founder of the details, including securing potential funding
and under a different name – Radiant Church. Peoria Dream Center. from government and private grants and
Destiny Church previously held services King, who is on the board of Dream Center foundations, he said.
at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 2200 Springfield, said Hansen’s goals are “excellent.”
Meadowbrook Road, before renting space in There never are enough services to assist low- Dean Olsen is a senior staff writer for Illinois
Town & Country Shopping Center the past income residents and youth, King said. Times. He can be reached at dolsen@illinoistimes.
three years. Although Dream Center Springfield will be com or 217-679-7810.
May 26-June 1, 2022 | Illinois Times | 7
NEWS
Supporters of a $250 million allocation of federal funds to help Illinois hotels recover from the COVID-19 pandemic explain legislation to carry out the proposal at
a March 8 Capitol news conference. They included, from left, state Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago; Sen. Sara Feigenholtz, D-Chicago; Michael Jacobson, CEO of the
Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association; Darin Dame, general manager of Springhill Suites by Marriott in Springfield; and Anwar Martin, general manager of DoubleTree
by Hilton Hotel in Bloomington. PHOTO BY LEE MILNER.
Illinois hotels get $75 million in federal assistance
Industry still struggling to recover
NEWS | Dean Olsen
Illinois’ hotel industry received less than the industry will receive more than $125 The busy summer season is imminent,
it requested from the General Assembly million, mostly from federal funds filtering and it’s uncertain whether rising gasoline
this year to recover from the COVID-19 through the state, he said. prices, ongoing staffing shortages, inflation
pandemic. But an industry leader said the “That’s more than most states in the and rising COVID-19 cases will interfere
final $75 million infusion definitely will help. country,” Jacobson said. with the hotel industry’s recovery, he said.
“We’re very pleased with where we ended The three previous programs didn’t Central Illinois hotels are trying to recruit
up,” said Michael Jacobson, president and include enough funding to reach the majority more workers and counter the incorrect
chief executive officer of the Illinois Hotel & of the state’s 1,500 hotels, he said. notion that hotel jobs are low-paying and
Lodging Association. The new program, funds for which haven’t lack opportunities for advancement, Dame
The industry asked the General Assembly yet started to be distributed, will ensure that said.
to appropriate $250 million from the state’s all hotels get something, he said. The industry statewide isn’t expected to
share of the federal American Rescue Plan Hotels that already received financial experience a full recovery until late 2024 or
Act to assist hotels devastated by reduced support will have that total subtracted from sometime in 2025, Jacobson said.
occupancy and convention business related to any future grants, Jacobson said. Industry officials hope state and local
the pandemic. Among those to benefit from the $75 leaders take a “reasonable approach to
The $250 million would have resulted in million will be the largest convention hotels future increases” in COVID-19 cases and
one-time grants to hotels of about $1,500 per in the Chicago area – with 1,500 to 2,000 not overreact, he said. Measures such as
room. rooms apiece. Those hotels didn’t qualify for indoor mask mandates and requiring proof
The final state budget for the fiscal year assistance in previous rounds because their of vaccination status can kill convention
that begins July 1 included the lesser amount. 2019 revenue totals were too high, Jacobson business and consumer spending and
The $75 million appropriation, which likely said. tourism, Jacobson said.
will average $400 to $500 per hotel room, Springfield hotels are looking forward to Surveys so far have indicated rising gas
still will help with cash flow and other the new grant program, said Darin Dame, prices haven’t yet caused people to change
expenses to allow hotels to return to full president of the Springfield Hotel and plans for road trips in Illinois this year, he
staffing and capacity, Jacobson said. Lodging Association. He is general manager said.
Jacobson said hotel industry officials and a co-owner of the 80-room Springfield However, concerns about public safety –
realize state lawmakers had to balance a Suites by Marriott at 3921 S. MacArthur especially when it comes to crime in Chicago
variety of interests vying for assistance in Blvd. – could put a damper on tourism, he said.
coping with financial struggles connected The hotel industry in Springfield, which
with the pandemic. When added to three includes about 4,000 hotel rooms, continues Dean Olsen is a senior staff writer for Illinois
previous financial assistance programs for to recover along with the industry statewide, Times. He can be reached at dolsen@
Illinois hotels, the latest appropriation means Dame said. illinoistimes.com or 217-679-7810.
8 | www.illinoistimes.com | May 26-June 1, 2022
OPINION
Remembering the butterflies WEEKLY REEDER | Scott Reeder
Memorial Day has me thinking about, of all
things, butterflies.
I remember when I was in grade school, I
took an elective science class over the summer.
It was pretty cool for an 11-year-old boy.
We got to dissect mice, capture snakes and
taxidermy fish.
But the best part of the class involved
bugs.
We captured all kinds of creepy, crawly
things, stuck them in a jar with a cotton ball
soaked in alcohol and then mounted them on
Styrofoam with a straight pin.
When it came time to capture butterflies, I
was at a disadvantage. I didn’t have a net.
Back in 1975, Osco sold nets for $5 apiece.
My father was a successful farmer and a
veterinarian. But he was also a child of the
Great Depression. Frugality defined him,
and when he learned the price of the net, he
balked.
I was ordered to get a stretch of No. 9 wire
from the farm’s shop and bring it to him. He
fashioned it into a giant hoop with a handle
on it.
“Go get a pair of your mother’s pantyhose
from her dresser,” he said as he finished legs flapped like an air sock near a landing “Put it away, now.” Before the day was out, I was catching
shaping the last part of the wire with a pair of strip. And the crotch? It looked like the flag of “But Mom, I’ve got to catch butterflies for butterflies with a store-bought net. And not
pliers. Japan, red rising sun and all. my school project.” only had I added monarchs and swallowtails
When I fished through the pantyhose As butterflies glided by, I swung with much “Now!” to my assortment of bugs on Styrofoam, but
drawer, I looked for the pair with the biggest enthusiasm, but not much coordination. Soon Soon she marched into the kitchen and I had yet another tale to add to a collection of
stain. After all, why ruin a new pair? (I may I was drawing an audience of hired men and said to my father, “Don, what have you family stories.
have been taking a summer science class, but other passersby. done?” When I stand over my parents’ grave this
there still was a lot my 11–year-old mind had And then my mother arrived home from “I made Scott a butterfly net,” my Memorial Day, I won’t be thinking about
yet to comprehend.) running errands and spotted me, pantyhose perplexed father replied. deathbeds or final words. I’ll be remembering
Dad slid the elastic waistband over the and all, in the front yard. That was Dad, practical to the core. He pantyhose and butterflies.
hoop and, presto, I had my own net. She rolled down the car window and was always looking for ways to get things done I love and miss you, Mom and Dad.
I was then dispatched into the yard to gasped, “What are you doing?” for the least amount possible. And Mom, the
catch moths and butterflies at my leisure. “Catching butterflies with this net Dad other half of the business, was busy reigning Scott Reeder, a staff writer for Illinois Times,
The hose caught a stout wind and both made me.” in his more “creative” impulses. can be reached at sreeder@illinoistimes.com.
May 26-June 1, 2022 | Illinois Times | 9
OPINION
On May 19 a judge found Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Director Marc Smith in contempt of court for the 11th time for violating court orders to
move children to proper placements. PHOTO BY E. JASON WAMBSGANS
LETTERS up a solution. When there “undecided” leads GOP
Jay poem #1 We welcome letters. Please include
your full name, address and telephone
aren’t enough foster homes
and/or the child has burned
governor field,” May 19).
Seems like there’s currently a
number. We edit all letters. Send them
This poem is by my grandson, Jay Ryan, through all of their placements choice between fear and hate
to editor@illinoistimes.com.
from a booklet he’s compiled of his and is basically unadoptable, or hate and fear. None of these
work. where else do you suggest they candidates is offering anything
put them? positive.
In the Northern Hemisphere,
FIX DCFS Come on pro-lifers, let’s Carol Jenkins Shafer
conifers are tall.
And in the negative latitudes, Watching our politicians play see you offer to take care of Via Facebook.com/illinoistimes
they are small political football and the blame these kids. Come on, you anti-
described with adjectives like game with DCFS is disgusting government people, open up ALSO GLOBAL
“prostrate” and “creeping.” (“DCFS keeps teenager locked your doors and give these kids I read with great interest the
in psych ward,” May 19). a place to live. Bet you all will article “Global Headquarters”
Opposite is the set of stars in the sky, The ones hurt by this are our be screaming to get them out of by David Blanchette (May
as are the man-in-the-moon’s eyes.
most vulnerable children. Will your house in short order. 19). Thank you for printing
Things are upside down on this side there come a day when our Jason Gross information about global
of the earth leaders forget politics and work Via Facebook.com/illinoistimes business and organizations
…and sometimes so am I
together to solve the problems working globally. I wanted to
with the agency? I can only LONGER SENTENCE let you know about Mission
2022 Jacqueline Jackson hope. Prayers to Bobbi Brittany Outreach, too.
Sarah Thomas Graves’ mother, Roberta Hahn We are a medical surplus
Springfield (“A fatal encounter,” May 12). recovery organization here
I don’t blame her for trying in Springfield and have been
BIGGER PROBLEM to push for Loren Letz to be around since 2002. In the
Firing Marc Smith, the director sentenced longer. last 20 years, we’ve sent more
of DCFS, will not cure the Desiree Leepper than $91 million of medical
problem. It’s beyond him. Via Facebook.com/illinoistimes supplies and equipment to 97
Katie Pritch countries around the world. We
Via Facebook.com/illinoistimes NOT TO BLAME have a specialty in biomedical
I can understand wanting to equipment, which means we
NO EASY SOLUTION point blame, but sometimes it’s not only ship equipment, we
As a former foster parent and just not there. ensure our recipients have the
paramedic and having adopted Via Facebook.com/illinoistimes supplies, training and technical
a bipolar son who is now Christina Reynolds support to install, use and
homeless and living on the dispose of it responsibly.
streets, and having a daughter NEED BETTER CHOICES Erica Smith, executive director
who is a DCFS caseworker, I Perhaps people would like Hospital Sisters Mission
have yet to hear anyone offer another option (“Poll shows Outreach
10 | www.illinoistimes.com | May 26-June 1, 2022OPINION
Illinois’ population has grown, not declined
US Census Bureau admits population count was inaccurate
POLITICS | Rich Miller
Illinois peaked at 27 US House seats after the its blunder. “It confirms what most of us already of the state’s news outlets.
1910 Census and subsequent reapportionment. know: Illinois is a great place to live and work. You don’t have to cheerlead for Illinois.
That lasted until the 1940 Census, when Illinois We need more people cheering for Illinois and Nobody would buy that, anyway. But the
dropped to 26 seats in Congress. We’ve been fewer spelunking for misery.” almost perverse pleasure some get at running
steadily losing ground ever since. It’s not that we I cannot imagine anyone actually cheering down this state’s already bad reputation needs to
lost population, it’s that other states in the West for Illinois. We’re just not that way here. be called out.
and the South grew much faster. California had Pessimism is in our collective bones, partly And what about those annual population
just 11 congressional districts as a result of the because it has been beaten into our beings for estimates, which turned out to be almost
1910 Census. It now has 53. so many years by opinion leaders, and partly 500,000 Illinoisans below the final number
Our downward trajectory has often been because, well, we do indeed suck at so many released last week?
demoralizing, but even more so during the past things. US Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi sits on the
decade as professional naysayers and outlets like In reality, more people leave Illinois in search House Oversight and Reform Committee,
the Chicago Tribune editorial board trumpeted of greater economic opportunities, lower costs which has jurisdiction over the Census Bureau.
annual Census estimates which showed huge, of living or even better winter weather than Back in January, Krishnamoorthi asked the
six-figure population losses. move here. It’s still a problem that must be dealt Census Bureau for a methodological review of
By December 2020, those annual census with. its annual state population estimates.
estimates showed Illinois had lost about 240,000 But this eager acceptance of Illinois’ decline Last week, Rep. Krishnamoorthi again
people, or 2% of its population. as an overwhelming cold, hard scientific fact pressed the Census Bureau for answers, this time
“Illinois is a deepening population sinkhole needs to be reexamined by the news media, about why Illinois was so grossly undercounted
flanked by states that are adding people, which has repeatedly perpetuated what has in the decennial census. The agency owes him,
businesses, jobs,” the Tribune editorial board apparently turned out to be a widely believed and the rest of us, some answers. Now.
opined. “The estimated Illinois population is myth. The Tribune has almost seemed to revel
12,587,530, down more than 240,000 since the in the stories of Illinois’ population loss. And Rich Miller also publishes Capitol Fax, a daily
2010 census. That’s more than Waukegan and where the Tribune goes, so goes most of the rest political newsletter, and CapitolFax.com.
Naperville, combined.”
The paper went on: “So tell us again,
Democratic power brokers who rule Illinois. Tell
us what great jobs you’re doing. Tell us that these
worsening annual population losses aren’t an
indictment of anti-jobs, high-spending policies.
Tell us it’s just snowbirds fleeing the weather
here. Tell us you need to keep raising taxes.”
When the official 2020 Census count
showed those previous estimates were wildly
wrong and Illinois’ net population loss was
“only” 18,000 people, those same folks either
changed the subject or harumphed that,
whatever the case, Illinois was still a net loser
and had fallen to the rank of sixth largest state
behind Pennsylvania.
To this day, political candidates and pundits
still regularly trumpet our losses as evidence that
we are a state in horrific decline while offering
simplistic policy prescriptions based on numbers
that have, as of last week, turned out to be more
inaccurate than we ever knew.
As you probably know by now, the US
Census Bureau admitted last week that it had
screwed up Illinois’ decennial headcount and the
state actually grew by about 250,000 people –
that’s almost a 500,000-person swing from the
December 2020 estimate. We’re back to being
the fifth largest state and our population has
surpassed 13 million people for the first time
ever.
“This is excellent news,” Illinois Senate
President Don Harmon said in a statement
issued hours after the Census Bureau admitted
May 26-June 1, 2022 | Illinois Times | 11OPINION
These honored dead
A Memorial Day tribute to the unknown soldiers of the Civil War
GUESTWORK Mark Flotow
May 30 is Memorial Day. For covering the battle-field gazing,
many decades it was better known (As the last gun ceased, but
as Decoration Day, a day to honor the scent of the powder-smoke
fallen Civil War soldiers – South linger’d,)
and North – by “decorating the As she call’d to her earth with
graves of comrades who died in mournful voice while she stalk’d,
defense of their country during Absorb them well O my earth, she
the late rebellion.” That’s how cried, I charge you lose not my
the Grand Army of the Republic sons, lose not an atom,
– a Union postwar fraternal And you streams absorb them
organization – put it in 1868. well, taking their dear blood,
Where are all those Civil War And you local spots, and you
graves now, for strewing with airs that swim above lightly
flowers and planting flags? Some impalpable,
are in active and well-cared-for And all you essences of soil and
cemeteries, of course, but many growth, and you my rivers’ depths,
are not. The dead from the Civil And you mountain sides, and the
War’s many battlefields were often woods, where my dear children’s
quickly and carelessly handled, blood trickling redden’d,
during a time when there were And you trees down in your roots
no dog tags or other required to bequeath to all future trees,
identification. It was common My dead absorb or South or
for the victors to tend to the North – my young men’s bodies
battlefield’s wounded and dead. absorb, and their precious precious
Usually, the enemy’s dead were blood,
buried in trenches or other mass Which holding in trust for me
graves, without identification, to faithfully back again give me
expedite the grim task as much as many a year hence,
possible. In unseen essence and odor of
An Illinois soldier distinctly surface and grass, centuries hence,
remembered the post-battle mass- In blowing airs from the fields
interment process, well over a year back again give me my darlings,
after its occurrence. give my immortal heroes,
Exhale me them centuries hence,
Corinth, Mississippi, Aug. 7, 1863, breathe me their breath, let not an
Mark Flotow of Springfield is author of In Their Letters, In Their Words: Illinois
to sister Civil War Soldiers Write Home. Southern Illinois University Press, 2019. atom be lost,
At the battle field of Shiloah O years and graves! O air and soil!
[Tennessee] they took big O my dead, an aroma sweet!
government waggons, and hauled battlefields, albeit unevenly regarding those Exhale them perennial sweet
the dead men together, the same as you would from the South versus those from the North. death, years, centuries hence.
haul hay up north, the wagons would hold In all cases, individual identification was spotty
about 25 or 30 men, and they would put from if not impossible. Currently, there also are the The many battlegrounds where soldiers’
6 to 8 loads in a place It took a week to get numerous markers and monuments to the “precious precious blood” was lost are thus
them all burried. —Private Almon Hallock, 15th “unknown soldier(s)” from the Civil War, which consecrated earth, streams, trees, airs and
Cavalry, LaSalle County are fitting reminders in their own way. mountainsides, whether they be with or
Given all of the above, how can we, today, without marked graves. While I truly respect
It is no wonder there are likely many tens of honor the Civil War dead, especially those who and honor all American soldiers in their graves
thousands of unmarked graves from the Civil remain unknown or unlocated? My simple on Memorial Day, I think the reading of
War era. In addition, there were instances, like suggestion is to read Walt Whitman’s 1865 Whitman’s poem – written before there was a
after the Battle of the Wilderness, Virginia, poem, “Pensive on Her Dead Gazing,” as a recognized Decoration Day – is an appropriate
where many dead soldiers were not buried at all. fitting Civil War soldier tribute on Memorial way to remember and cherish all those Civil
And not all soldiers who died in combat were Day. War soldiers who lie without graves or without
upon large-scale battlefields. recognition, wherever they might rest across our
In some locations, where soldiers had been Pensive on Her Dead Gazing, by Walt nation. I plan to make it a personal habit to do
buried in farmers’ fields, their mortal remains Whitman so this Memorial Day and on each one hence.
were plowed and scattered in subsequent years. Pensive on her dead gazing I heard the Mother
Shortly after the war, the U.S. government of All, Mark Flotow dedicates his book: “To Illinois’
started reburying the dead from the larger Desperate on the torn bodies, on the forms soldiers and sailors, past and present.”
12 | www.illinoistimes.com | May 26-June 1, 2022OPINION
Why good investigative journalism matters
GUESTWORK | Lee H. Hamilton
Recently, a couple of reporters at The
New York Times published an intriguing
story about conversations between House
Republican leader Kevin McCarthy and
other members of his leadership team. It
was shortly after the events of Jan. 6 at the
Capitol, and they were talking about what to
do about then-President Trump.
His conduct, McCarthy said, had been
“atrocious and totally wrong.” Moreover,
wrote Alexander Burns and Jonathan Martin
in their article, McCarthy “faulted the
president for ‘inciting people’ to attack the
Capitol, saying that Mr. Trump’s remarks at a
rally on the National Mall that day were ‘not
right by any shape or any form.’” He added,
“I’ve had it with this guy.”
Burns and Martin have since published
a series of articles on the subject, including
McCarthy’s fears that some of his more
extreme colleagues could themselves incite
more violence. Not surprisingly, there have
been plenty of denials, but the two reporters
have countered with one key point: They
have the audio recordings.
I happen to believe these stories are
important for the insight they provide into
key politicians’ thinking at a dark moment Supporters of former President Donald Trump clash with the U.S. Capitol police during a riot at the Capitol on
in our history – and on those politicians’ Jan. 6, 2021. PHOTO BY ALEX EDELMAN/AFP/GETTY IMAGES/TNS.
willingness to backtrack in the year since.
But whether you agree or not, the willingness
of two reporters to dig deep into what
actually happened and set the record straight U.S. officials’ misleading statements about of them have their faults, obsessing over
has sent shockwaves through Washington the war in Afghanistan. And Ronan Farrow’s feuds and conflict and giving them more
and cast the behavior of powerful officials in groundbreaking investigation of the sexual attention than they deserve. But overall, I’ve
a new light. predation of Harvey Weinstein. There’s been found journalists as a whole and investigative
This is what good investigative ongoing coverage of the dark corners of journalists in particular to be intelligent,
journalism does. It is an essential part of America’s war on terror, from Abu Ghraib to compassionate, and people of integrity.
our representative democracy, offering all Guantanamo. The work by the Seattle Times And I’ll say it again: They’re vital to
of us – the people who have the most at on how failures of government oversight our representative democracy. We need the
stake in who represents us in Washington helped lead to the crashes of the Boeing 737 work journalists do to remain a free and
and how they and other officials behave on MAX. The Boston Globe’s earth-shattering independent nation, with power residing
our behalf – the chance to understand more investigations of abusive behavior by priests ultimately in the hands of its citizens.
fully what’s going on. I often think to myself and the Catholic Church hierarchy’s efforts There’s a reason that one of the first things
how dull our lives would be without the to cover it up. authoritarians do is try to bring the press to
difficult, important work that enterprising It’s possible that just by reciting that tiny heel. They understand, perhaps better than
journalists do. They get for us the facts and – fraction of important work, I’ve spurred we who get to take these things for granted,
mostly – put them in context so that we can you to think of other examples, from how a thriving free press lets people form
understand what we need to know. Watergate to the exposure of corruption or their own opinions.
I’m not going to recite a list of all the malfeasance or toxic pollution or some other
important stories that journalists have community harm where you live. And that’s Lee Hamilton is a senior adviser for the
uncovered or helped to explain; it would my point: Journalists are constantly finding Indiana University Center on Representative
take us hours. But a quick look back at some and exposing the truth in ways that, ideally, Government; a Distinguished Scholar at the
relatively recent investigative work gives spur us to improve our lives, communities, IU Hamilton Lugar School of Global and
you a sense of the key importance they play. government and democratic system as a International Studies; and a Professor of
There was the 2019 Washington Post story whole. They have a lot of power – they can Practice at the IU O’Neill School of Public and
on a confidential “trove” of government destroy the career of public officials and Environmental Affairs. He was a member of
papers documenting nearly two decades of private-sector leaders – and certainly some the U.S. House of Representatives for 34 years.
May 26-June 1, 2022 | Illinois Times | 1314 | www.illinoistimes.com | May 26-June 1, 2022
summerguide
Knights Action Park
2022 Summerlong
Summerguide
Summer fun ONGOING Grand Ave. W., 217-546-3970. 1:30-2pm. Hear excerpts from
historic love letters from the
Springfield Municipal Band 19th and early 20th centuries,
Up at bat...................p41 Spring seedling sale
Mon.-Sat., 9am-2pm. Vegetable,
Tuesdays, June 7-August 9,
7:30pm. Free. Duncan Park, 400
read lines from love poems
written by Springfield poets, find
herb and flower seedlings N. MacArthur Blvd. out which couples lived happily
Go see the grown from organic seeds
and without chemicals. Sale The Illinois Freedom Project
ever after and which stories
ended in tragedy. Part of History
sunflowers................p42 continues while seedlings
last. Jubilee Farm, 6760 Old
Tuesday-Saturday weekly,
10am-4pm. This exhibit tells
Comes Alive. Free (donations
accepted). Old State Capitol, 1
Jacksonville Road, 217-787- the story of Illinois’ long fight Old State Capitol Plaza, 217-
6927. for freedom from slavery. It is 789-2360.
Summer fun that’s on loan from the National Park
Litchfield Pickers Market Service. Springfield and Central Military History Hike
absolutely free..........p45 June 12, 9am-3pm and Illinois African American History Wednesdays, June 8-August 3,
the second Sunday of each Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 1:30-2pm. Visit the graves of
month through October. 217-391-6323. both significant historical figures
Family road trip fun...p47 Vintage items, antiques and
collectibles. Live music and food Bike tours
and individuals whose stories
have been forgotten over time.
vendors. Downtown Litchfield, Wednesdays, June 8-August Expect to walk on hills, stairs
Summer reading 400 N. State St., 866-733-5833. 3. Five-mile tours at 10am.
Eight-mile tours at 1pm. Ride
and on uneven and unpaved
surfaces. Appropriate footwear
and much more........p49 Jungle Explorer
Mondays June 6-July 18.
your own bicycle on a guided,
neighborhood-style ride going
and bottled water suggested.
Reservations strongly
Ages 3-5. Explore the jungle, by the Dana-Thomas House, recommended. Free. Lincoln
desert and rainforest through first Black firehouse, Lincoln’s Tomb State Historic Site, 1500
Learn something stories, art and songs. $60- Home, Old State Capitol, Lincoln Monument Ave., 217-785-7960.
$70. Washington Park, 1501 S. Tomb and others. Information
this summer..............p51 Grand Ave. W., 217-544-1751. provided at each site. Helmets A Personal Side of the
required. A water bottle is Civil War
Preschool Summer Fun Camp recommended. Dana-Thomas Wednesdays, June 8-August
Music........................p52 Tuesdays and Thursdays,
June 7-July 19. Ages 3-5. Art
House, 301 E. Lawrence Ave.,
217-782-6776.
3, 11-11:30am. Learn what
pre-Civil War and Civil War-era
projects, music and movement, correspondence reveals about
Theater.....................p54 snacks and outdoor play. $93-
$113. Washington Park, 1501 S.
Happily Ever After?
Wednesdays, June 8-August 3,
the correspondents and how
the war affected their personal
May 26-June 1, 2022 | Illinois Times | 1516 | www.illinoistimes.com | May 26-June 1, 2022
summerguide
Old Capitol Farmers Market May 28, 8am-1pm, every Saturday and Wednesday
relationships. Part of the History and on uneven and unpaved Race Riot Walking Tour
Comes Alive program. Free surfaces. Appropriate footwear Thursdays and Saturdays, June
(donations accepted). Lincoln- and bottled water suggested. 9 August 6, 10-11am. The lives
Herndon Law Office, 112 N. Reservations strongly of many African Americans
Sixth St. recommended. Free. Lincoln were turned upside down by
Tomb State Historic Site, 1500 the 1908 Race Riot. This hour-
Underground Railroad Monument Ave., 217-785-7960. long walking tour will discuss
Walking Tour a portion of the devastating
Wednesdays, June 8-August Civil War medicine riot. Meet on the Adams Street
3, 1-1:45pm Explores several Thursdays, June 9-August side of the Old State Capitol.
locations in Springfield that 4, 11-11:30am. A look at Hosted by the Dept. of Natural
have significance to the the ever-changing world of Resources. Visit the website
Underground Railroad, such as medicine and how the Civil War for reservation information.
the Old State Capitol and the became a backdrop of leading- Free. Old State Capitol, 1 Old
Lincoln Home neighborhood, edge techniques and theory. State Capitol Plaza, 217-785-
plus other lesser-known Ambulances, triage, amputations 9363.
locations. Part of History Comes and more. Hosted by the Dept.
Alive. Free. Lincoln Home of Natural Resources. Visit Sangamon Watercolor
National Historic Site, 413 S. the website for reservation Society Exhibition
Eighth St., 217-524-3971. information. Free. Old State First Friday of each month,
Capitol, 1 Old State Capitol 5-8pm. Enjoy artist
Healing Crystal Bowls Plaza, 217-785-9363. demonstrations and
Meditation refreshments. Hoogland Center
First Thursday of each month, Design like Frank Lloyd for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St.,
6-8pm. Soothing, healing Wright 217-523-2787.
vibrations, sending harmony, Thursdays, June 9-August 4,
peace and balance into 2-3:30pm. A drawing/walking Preschool “Super Hero to the
our community and world. tour. Develop an understanding Rescue”
Bring a mat to relax on the of the basic principles of organic Fridays, June 10-July 15.
floor, if you choose. $15 love architecture and learn to design Ages 3-5. Learn to fly and
offering is suggested, but not like Frank Lloyd Wright. Drawing get a superhero name. $60-
required. Unity of Springfield, supplies available. Tour includes $70. Washington Park, 1501 S.
417 Cordelia, 523-5897. only site exteriors. Donations Grand Ave. W., 217-544-1751.
welcome. Free. Dana-Thomas
Drumming Circle House, 301 E. Lawrence Ave., Getting a tour in “Edgewise”
Third Thursday of each month, 217-782-6776. Fridays, June 3-June 24,
6-8pm. Bring your instruments 11am-12pm. An interactive
and zeal and join in. Love Meet a boy in blue art and history experience.
offering. Unity of Springfield, Thursdays, June 9-August 4, How have Illinoisans from
417 Cordelia, 217-523-5897. 3-3:30pm. The life of a Union marginalized groups gotten
soldier during the Civil War. a word in edgewise? Learn
Black History Hike Uniform, campfires and day-to- the stories of everyday
Thursdays, June 9-August 4, day life. Part of History Comes people doing extraordinary
1-2:30pm. Highlights Block Alive. Hosted by the Dept. of things. Part of the History
5, a section of the cemetery Natural Resources. Visit the Comes Alive summer series.
originally set aside for website for more information. illinoisstatemuseum.org.
Springfield’s African American Free. Old State Capitol, 1 Old Free. Illinois State Museum,
residents. Involves walking State Capitol Plaza, 217-785- 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-
up and down hills, stairs 9363. 6044.
May 26-June 1, 2022 | Illinois Times | 1718 | www.illinoistimes.com | May 26-June 1, 2022
summerguide
Ice cream social with the Old Capitol Farmers Market Doris Turner and Sen. Steve
Lincolns Saturdays and Wednesdays McClure and moderator
Fridays, June 3-Aug. 5, 2:30- May 28-October, 8am-1pm. Dr. Beverly Bunch. Coffee
3:30pm. Enjoy ice cream Shop for fresh local produce, reception at 7:30 a.m. before
with the Lincolns as they baked goods and products. the program. Hoogland Center
visit Mrs. Helen Edwards Please note health guidelines for the Arts Club Room, 420 S.
at her Italianate home. The will be followed. Old Capitol Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
Springfield Municipal Band Farmers Market, Fourth and
will provide the afternoon’s Adams streets, 217-544-1723. The Spongebob Musical
entertainment. Part of History May 27-29 and June 1-5,
Comes Alive. Edwards Place, 8:30pm. SpongeBob, Patrick,
MAY
Springfield Art Association, 700 Sandy, Squidward and all
N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631. of Bikini Bottom face total
annihilation, until a most
Family story time on Sigma Gamma Rho Exhibit unexpected hero rises to
Lincoln’s Lawn Through May 31. Celebrating take center stage. Reserved
Fridays, June 3-July 28, 10:30- the 100-year anniversary of seating $20. Lawn seating
11am. Sun-soaked stories, the sorority. Highlights notable $13. Children 5 and under are
songs and movement. Read, members of the local chapter, free on the lawn. For tickets,
write, talk, sing and play. and includes unique keepsakes call 314-534-1111 or visit
Children must be accompanied and memorabilia. spiaahm. metrotix.com. The Muni, 815 E.
by an adult. In case of rain, the org. Springfield and Central Lake Dr., 217-793-MUNI.
event will take place in Lincoln Illinois African American History
Library. Free. Lincoln Home Museum, 1440 Monument Capital City Biathlon and 5K
National Historic Site, 413 S. Ave., 217-391-6323. May 28, 8am. Danenberger
Eighth St., 217-753-4900. Family Vineyards, New Berlin,
Disney’s Descendants: The 12341 Irish Road, 217-488-
Lincoln’s Friends Hike Musical 6321.
Fridays, June 3-Aug. 7, May 27-29. The Hoogland
1-2:30pm. Walking tour visiting Teens and Kids are back. Based Local First Spring Fling
the graves of Mary Lincoln’s on the popular Disney Channel May 28, 5-7pm. Fun, prizes,
sisters and Abraham Lincoln’s Original Movies, featuring the vendors and networking.
law partners. Involves walking beloved characters and hit Catered by Cured Catering.
up and down hills, stairs songs from the films. hcfta. Local beer and wine. MASCO
and on uneven and unpaved org. $16. Hoogland Center for Packaging & Industrial Supply,
surfaces. Appropriate footwear the Arts LRS Theatre 1, 420 S. 290 W. North St., 217-744-
and bottled water suggested. Sixth St., 217-523-2787. 0339.
Reservations strongly
recommended. Free. Lincoln The Laramie Project Burger Bash
Tomb State Historic Site, 1500 May 27-29. This play is based May 29, 4-10pm. Music by
Monument Ave., 217-785- on a true story about Matthew Broken Stone. Prop Club, 264
7960. Shepard and includes strong Maple Grove Lane, 529-4901.
language and mature content
Women’s History Walking that some may find upsetting, A Most Memorable
Tour including descriptions of Memorial Day
Fridays, June 3-Aug. 5, 2-3pm. homophobia, violence and May 29-30. Dr. Mark DePue
“Building a Better World.” death. hcfta.org. $20. Hoogland will give a presentation
Follow the path of Illinois Center for the Arts, Theatre III, Sunday at the Elks Club at
suffragists who paved the 420 S. 6th St., 523-2787. 2pm, followed by a memorial
way for a better future. This ceremony at Legacy Plaza
1.5-mile walking tour begins Memorial Day Celebration at Illinois College. Hamilton’s
at the Dana-Thomas House May 27, 11:30am. Patriotic will host an Interfaith Prayer
and concludes at the Illinois performance by the Tip Top Breakfast at 8am Monday,
State Capitol, including only Tappers. Senior Services of followed by the “Rededication
site exteriors. Reservations Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason of the Morgan,” County Vietnam
required. Free (donations St., 217-528-4035. Memorial, accompanied by the
accepted). Dana-Thomas Jacksonville Community Band,
House, 301 E. Lawrence Ave., “NOIR: The Migration” at Nichols Park at 2pm. Call
217-782-6776. May 27-Sep. 3. A showcase 904-314-0169 for more info
of art depicting the migration and breakfast reservations.
History Comes Alive of Black Americans. Co- Jacksonville.
Saturdays, June 4-August, curated by national artists
1:30pm. A weekly presentation Michelle Smith and Kas King. Memorial Day Ceremony
series that delves into our past. illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois May 30, 2pm. A holiday
Visit the website for up-to-date State Museum, 502 S. Spring observance ceremony and a
schedule information. spiaahm. St., 217-782-7386. performance by the Springfield
org. Springfield and Central Municipal Band. Camp Butler
Illinois African American History Policy Breakfast National Cemetery, 5063 Camp
Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., May 27, 8am. “State of the Butler Road, 217-492-4070.
217-391-6323. State,” with speakers Sen.
May 26-June 1, 2022 | Illinois Times | 1920 | www.illinoistimes.com | May 26-June 1, 2022
summerguide
SAA Open House and Make Truck Reveal June 4, Edwards Place
JUNE Music Series. Y Block, Fourth “ENERGY” exhibition
and Jackson streets, 217-753- opening
3519. June 3-4, 6:30-9:30pm.
Region XI Arabian and Half Music by Mark Russillo
Arabian Championship Show 42 and Ocean State Quartet.
June 1-5. A showcase for the June 3. The inspirational true Refreshments. The Pharmacy
horse breed preferred by so story of Jackie Robinson Gallery and Art Space, 623 E.
many distance riders. Region and how he became the first Adams St., 801-810-9278.
XI is comprised of 16 clubs African American baseball
in Illinois, Iowa and Missouri. player allowed to play in the Heritage Days Summerfest
aha11.com. Free. Coliseum, major leagues. Bring lawn June 3-6. Food, beer, activities
Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 E. chairs or blankets. Part of the for kids and live music. Little
Sangamon Ave. Movies in the Park series. Flower School, 900 Stevenson
Begins at sunset. Free. Robin Dr., 217-529-4511.
Holocaust History and Roberts Stadium, 1415 N.
Survivor Testimony Grand Ave. E., 217-753-0700. Celebration and home tours
June 2, 7pm. Presented by June 3-5. The Be Lovely
Christopher Browning as part Antique show and sale Home provides housing and
of the “For the People” speaker June 3-5. Quality antiques, employment for women
series. Abraham Lincoln art and fine collectibles such recovering from lives of
Presidential Museum, 212 N. as furniture, jewelry, silver addiction and poverty. It has
Sixth St., 217-558-8844. and rare antiques. Silent been uniquely and beautifully
auction and on-site repair for painted and decorated by
International Carillon Festival crystal, costume jewelry and women in the program. Tours
June 2-5. One of the world’s furniture. Ages 13 and older $7. $10 or $33 with a celebration
most important and prestigious Admission is good for all three shirt. woodenitbelovely.love. Be
carillon events, the festival days. Orr Building, Illinois State Lovely Home, 801 South Grand
has an unsurpassed tradition Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-606-5307.
of presenting the finest Ave., 217-725-8047.
carillonneurs from around the The Houses They Built
world. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Artist on the Plaza June 3, 10-10:45am. With stops
Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 June 3, 12-1pm. Singer- at the Dana-Thomas Home,
W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-3853. songwriter Tom Irwin. the Executive Mansion and the
Sponsored by the Springfield Lincoln Home neighborhood,
An Officer and a Gentleman Area Arts Council. Free. Old you will learn about the
June 2, 7:30pm. A sweeping State Capitol Plaza, between architects and builders who
romance that lifts you up where Sixth and Fifth streets at created the famous homes,
you belong. $24-$89. UIS Adams. the people who lived in them
Performing Arts Center, One and their significance to the
University Plaza, 217-206-6160. “Dissonant Harmony: A Life city. Visit the Dept. of Natural
in Art” opening reception Resources website for more
Soul Message Band June 3, 5:30-7:30pm. A information. Free. Dana-Thomas
June 2, 6pm. Band members retrospective exhibition by Sally House, 301 E. Lawrence Ave.,
Chris Foreman, a Chicago- Elliott, a Boulder, Colorado, 217-524-3971.
based and nationally celebrated painter with an illustrious
Hammond B3 jazz organist, career spanning over 40 years. Jungle Cruise
drummer Greg Rockingham, Refreshments provided. Exhibit June 3, 7-9pm. A doctor
aka “The Rock,” and Chicago runs through July 9. Free. M.G. and a skipper search for an
veteran guitarist, Lee Nelson Family Gallery, 700 N. ancient tree that holds the
Rothenberg, will kick off this Fourth St., 217-523-2631. power to heal – a discovery
year’s Levitt AMP Springfield that will change the future of
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