Good morning, Springfield.

Downtown businesses are teaming for the new My Heart's Downtown Campaign launching in February to offer events including Kidzeum Love Day, Family Date Night with carriage rides, and the unveiling of a seven-foot heart sculpture at the Old State Capitol Plaza — all to help neighbors rediscover local charm.

Mayor Misty Buscher relaunched Springfield Green today to boost city pride and beautify key gateways for the upcoming Route 66 celebrations and SCHEELS Sports Park events.

The initiative invites volunteer groups to join the Adopt-a-Street program and help reduce litter — fostering active local involvement.

Fawn, a 1½-year-old stray now at Sangamon County Animal Control, is the Dog of the Week and is looking for a loving home — she enjoys playful walks and chasing squirrels.

The shelter welcomes visitors Monday — Friday 10:30 a.m. — 4:15 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. — 1:00 p.m.

District 186 Superintendent Jennifer Gill said no teacher will lose a job but roles will shift due to an $18 million deficit — affected staff can choose new positions starting March 23 after proposed $10 million cuts are presented to the board on March 9 in Springfield.

District 186 is adjusting teacher roles following an $18 million budget shortfall.

Superintendent Gill said nearly 20 displaced teachers will select new positions starting March 23 while proposed $10 million cuts will be presented to the board on March 9.

District 186 educators urged the Board on Monday to speed up protocols for law enforcement & immigration interactions required by the Safe Schools For All Act, which took effect in January, to ease student anxiety ahead of the July deadline.

Terrance Jordan was unanimously voted as Springfield's next superintendent and will take over on July 1 — the school board confirmed his appointment.

Pamela Franks of Playful Steps Child Care warned that a funding freeze on childcare subsidies may force her to reduce services in Springfield—risking closure of her 30-year home-based program.

Concerns rise as a restraining order on the freeze ends on Friday, Feb. 6.

Coach Colin Wood was named the first UIS women’s flag football head coach a few weeks ago and was welcomed Tuesday at TRAC.

He shared his journey to lead the Prairie Stars team.

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.