Good morning, Springfield.

The Land of Lincoln Honor Flight seeks veterans and guardians to join flights on May 5 + Sept.

1 + Oct. 20 that will take Illinois veterans to the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. Signing up is easy and requires only basic personal details.

Lincoln Library marked its 140th birthday Monday, Feb.2 with cake served from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and a time capsule from 1976 was opened at the library on S 7th; its Civil Civics program will meet next on Tuesday, Feb.10 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.

Mayor Misty Buscher announced today that Springfield Green will begin its litter pickup initiative as the city prepares for a record tourism year + the effort marks its first major environmental step.

The Springfield school board approved a contract for a new superintendent Monday night — Dr. Terrance Jordan, who earns $230,000 annually and will begin on July 1 — and district leaders plan to outline proposed cuts in March to address a $10 million deficit.

Illinois borrowers may owe federal and state taxes on some student loan forgiveness in 2026 if lawmakers do not change the tax law - researchers warn that those on income-based repayment plans could face up to $10,000 in taxes.

Illinois Department of Agriculture has announced $3.6 million in grants (aimed at improving food processing, storage and distribution for farmers and food nonprofits) that will boost local food supply chains; applications open Feb.

18 and close Mar. 27.

In yesterday’s game at Sangamo, PORTA overcame a 12-0 lead to win 53-47 as Aubrey Vogel scored 14 and Allison Vogel added 13 in the second half — ending the Bullets’ early surge.

PORTA will play in Carlinville on Wednesday while the Bullets visit Olympia on Thursday.

UIS athletics is set for a busy week as the season opens with a flag football coach welcome event today at 1:00 p.m.; upcoming games include matchups at Maryville, McKendree, Tennessee, Savannah State, and Thomas More (each event is a key part of the new schedule).

Bath Bombs and Body Scrub Workshop

3:00-4:30 p.m. — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Create a thoughtful Valentine gift with handmade bath bombs and coffee body scrub in a fun, messy setting.

Super Bowl LX Celebration

5-10 p.m. — 5th Street GEM — In person — Enjoy an evening of football, snacks, and good vibes at the Super Bowl LX Party.

Foster Parent Information Session

6-7:30 p.m. — Monical's Pizza — Free entry — Discover how you can make a difference in a child's life by exploring foster parenting in a supportive environment.

Snow Tulips Paint Night with Ashley Blake

2-4 p.m. — Harvest Market — No cost mentioned — Enjoy a relaxed afternoon painting a winter scene of snow-covered tulips with guided instruction.

Stay & Play

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Lincoln Library — Free — Enjoy engaging activities and themed stations for toddlers and children every Thursday morning in February.

Stained Glass Hearts Crafting

3-4 p.m. — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Create beautiful stained glass hearts and other shapes in this fun craft program for children.