Friends of Miguel Valente

06/13/2026

Downstate Forward is very pleased to announce our 3rd endorsement of an incumbent City Council member for the 2027 municipal elections. Alderman Roy Williams, Jr.'s values are aligned with our PAC and we're happy to include him with our other endorsed candidates. Meet Ward 3 Alderman Roy Williams, Jr. at our Meet & Greet event Monday, June 15.

Alderman Roy William’s Jr. is running for his second full term on Springfield City Council after being appointed to replace Sen. Doris Turner in Ward 3. As a member of the Aldermanic Black Caucus, he supports the organization in promoting social, economic, and educational equity by supporting young leaders and advocating for policies that promote a thriving community. Along with his fellow Aldermanic Black Caucus members, he builds consensus and unity among the group to build successes at City Council.

Alderman Williams is a strong advocate for Ward 3 and tirelessly speaks up for his constituents, ensuring that his ward and the whole of the East side of Springfield receive the consideration and funding for programs for equitable economic development. He asks the hard questions at City Council meetings and always insists on including the public’s input on issues. He is responsive to his constituents’ needs and questions as well as the questions of local organizations requiring his help at City Council.

06/12/2026

ROAD WORK
Beginning Monday, June 15, W. White Oaks Drive will be closed to thru-traffic between Cameron and Cascade Drives for a water main extension project. This work is expected to take multiple days with all lanes remaining closed until road surface repairs are complete. Work will be rescheduled in the event of inclement weather.

Motorists should plan to take alternative routes to avoid delays and should slow down and be aware of construction and repair crews and equipment in and near roadways.

06/12/2026

The City of Springfield is closely monitoring the potential for severe weather on Saturday, June 13, during the afternoon and evening hours. The National Weather Service has placed Springfield and much of central Illinois under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather.

Potential hazards include:
• Damaging wind gusts of 60–75 mph
• Scattered hail larger than 1 inch in diameter
• Isolated tornadoes
• Localized flash flooding

Before the Storm
• Stay informed by monitoring local weather forecasts and alerts
• Charge cell phones and other electronic devices
• Review your emergency plan and identify the safest place in your home to shelter

During Severe Weather
• Move indoors immediately if a warning is issued
• Stay away from windows and exterior doors
• Seek shelter in a basement or an interior room on the lowest level of your home
• Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary

After the Storm
• Watch for downed power lines and report them to the appropriate utility provider.
• Never drive through flooded roadways
• Check on neighbors, especially older adults and those who may need assistance

The City of Springfield encourages all residents to remain weather aware and take the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their families safe. Continue to follow trusted weather sources for the latest forecasts, watches, and warnings.

Visit Springfield City Water, Light and Power (CWLP) Lincoln Library, The Public Library of Springfield, IL Springfield Illinois Fire Department Springfield Police Department - Illinois

06/12/2026

Make service reports to Electric at 217-789-2121 or check our Outage Map, https://t.co/cie53ipg67. Call 217-789-2323 ext 2 for Water trouble or questions.

06/11/2026

Attention Residents: The weather is currently being monitored; the National Weather Service has placed Springfield, IL at an Enhanced Risk level 3 of 5. All hazards are possible, including winds over 75 mph, possible tornados and large hail.

Storms are set to begin around 6:00 p.m.

Due to the weather, many outdoor events have been canceled, including the Levitt AMP series for tonight.

Helpful Tips

Before the Storm:
• Stay informed by monitoring local weather forecasts and alerts
• Charge cell phones and electronic devices
• Review your emergency plan and identify the safest place in your home to shelter

During Severe Weather:
• Move indoors immediately if a warning is issued
• Stay away from windows and exterior doors
• Seek shelter in a basement or an interior room on the lowest level of your home
• Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary

After the Storm:
• Watch for downed power lines and report them
• Avoid flooded roadways
• Check on neighbors, especially older adults and those who may need assistance

The City of Springfield encourages all residents to stay weather aware and take precautions to keep themselves and their families safe. Continue to follow trusted weather sources for the latest updates, watches and warnings.

City Water, Light and Power (CWLP) Visit Springfield Lincoln Library, The Public Library of Springfield, IL Springfield Police Department - Illinois Springfield Illinois Fire Department City of Springfield - Office of Public Works

06/11/2026

Attention residents: Below is the list of 2026 Cooling Centers. Please be aware that hours have changed for some locations. Cooling centers are available for anyone seeking relief from high temperatures. Remember to drink plenty of water and check on vulnerable neighbors and loved ones.

If you have additional questions reach out to Community Relations at 217-789-2270.

City Water, Light and Power (CWLP) Visit Springfield Lincoln Library, The Public Library of Springfield, IL Springfield Police Department - Illinois Springfield Illinois Fire Department

06/11/2026

06/11/2026

06/11/2026

🚨 CALL TO ACTION 🚨

Last night, our shelter partner, the Animal Protective League, was hit by a tornado. We are incredibly grateful to report that all animals and staff are safe, but they urgently need foster homes. We took in nine cats last night in the chaos, but they still need homes for 11 dogs and 29 cats.

To become a foster, you can:
complete a foster application at www.apl-shelter.org
Email them at [email protected]
Or call at 217-503-7444

Donations are also greatly needed to help support recovery efforts and can be made at www.apl-shelter.org/donate.

We are also accepting any donations at our café and will ensure it gets to them. Donations can be dropped off at our café Wednesday through Sunday from 10am-1pm and 2-5pm. Here is the APL wishlist: apl-shelter.org/wish-list

Please share to help spread the word and help get the APL back on their feet!