- Published: Friday, October 01, 2021 12:52 PM
This year, the state of Illinois was recognized by the Springfield Historic Sites Commission with the 2021 Historic Preservation Award to honor and recognize efforts to preserve historical buildings in downtown Springfield.
The state has made a strong effort to preserve many old buildings in Springfield, including the Illinois State Armory, Old State Capitol dome, former State Journal Register building and the Chase/Marine building. This recognition comes as Central Management Services continues to optimize the state’s real estate portfolio and redevelop several properties for the state to use in the upcoming Capital Complex Master Plan for 2050.
This year, at the 2021 Illinois State Fair, more than 472,000 visitors walked through the gates, marking the second highest attendance since the Illinois Department of Agriculture began tracking the numbers back in 2014. This year’s attendance was surpassed only by the historic record set in 2019. 
Southern Illinois University Carbondale has stopped their downward trend in enrollment by bringing in their largest freshman class in five years. This fall, 1,422 Salukis are starting their college career, bringing an increase of 4.5% from previous years.
Residents and tourists looking to beat the heat this summer have a great selection of city pools and waterparks across Illinois. Here are some of the state’s popular waterparks.
A beloved annual celebration in Bloomington will reach a lofty milestone in July. The David Davis Mansion State Historic Site will be celebrating the 25th year of its Glorious Garden Festival on July 16-17.
