Good morning, Springfield.

Two friendly orange cats, Present and Yesterday, are ready for adoption together at Sangamon County Animal Control (2100 Shale Street) in Springfield.

Both cats are neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and healthy, and residents can visit Monday to Friday or Saturday.

Enzo, a high-energy dog, is looking for a permanent home at the local shelter after spending four stressful months in a kennel.

Shelter visitors can meet him Monday-Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Illinois native Bailey Zimmerman will headline the Illinois State Fair grandstand on Friday, Aug.

14. Tickets will go on sale this Friday at 10 a.m. (via Ticketmaster).

Ameren Illinois saved customers $78.2 million during Winter Storm Fern by using its underground gas storage (which holds up to 50% of its winter supply) to shield families and businesses from steep price spikes and extreme weather.

A new report warns Illinois taxpayers could face over $1 billion in cleanup costs from thousands of inactive oil and gas wells if operators do not plug them properly.

The state agency said federal dollars are helping speed up plugging, though experts urge tougher regulations (and better data) to keep the costs in check.

UIS men's basketball, top-ranked in the GLVC Point Rating System, will travel to Rolla, Mo. for a rescheduled game against No. 24 Missouri S&T after winter weather forced a January postponement — the Prairie Stars look to bounce back following a split last weekend.

Glenwood head coach Alyssa Riley said the Titans won over U-High on Tuesday and earned the CS8 conference title, setting a strong tone for the season ahead.

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.

Illinois Product Expo 2026

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Orr Building — $10 for wine tasting — Explore local flavors and indulge in wine from 14 Illinois wineries.

Toddler Time at Lincoln Library

10:30-11:00 a.m. — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Move, learn, and play with stories, songs, and activities tailored for toddlers and their caregivers.