Building a new life after prison

RaeLynn Costa is making a comeback, with the support of Project Return

Erin’s Pavilion at Southwind set to open this fall

Developers rely on “team approach” for park’s plans

Before developers installed the children’s playground at Edwin Watts Southwind Park, they spent an entire day discussing their options with representatives from United Cerebral Palsy

Boys and Girls Clubs shut down, other groups step up

Even though Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Illinois announced this week that state funding cuts would temporarily shutter its central unit, leaders hope community support and federal dollars can

New nonprofit plans fitness center for the disabled

Leaders launch capital campaign, seek private funds

As Illinois prepares to slash funding for, and effectively shut down, social service and nonprofit organizations, Kerry Jennings is working to launch Chrysalis Independence Foundation, In

Singing with the stars

Springfield sisters to perform with CSI’s Gary Sinise in July

In just the past year, Cassy and Alyssa Gaddis, teenage sisters from Springfield, have become the bright-eyed faces of the National Guard music campaign. Since Alyssa, now 13, penn

Sri Lanka’s struggle for peace comes to Springfield

Government declares war’s end, but 300,000 remain captive

More than 50 people assembled on the steps of the Capitol Friday, wearing tan, gray and blue T-shirts that carried their message: Break the Silence in Sri Lanka. The crowd —

Plains to purchase Clayville

Donations and state grant provide “vote of confidence”%u2008

After less than two months of fundraising, the Pleasant Plains Historical Society is ready to purchase and restore Clayville. Jim Verkuilen, the historical society president and vil

‘Local Flavors’ meals make connections

Durbin: Everybody needs a medical home

SIU physicians shape reform for low-income patients

Restoring Adams Wildlife Sanctuary

A plan to attract birds and people to this 40-acre refuge on Springfields east side