Good morning, Springfield.

Illinois Manufacturers’ Association is launching the 2026 Makers Madness contest that lets residents vote for the coolest product made in the state; nominations run through March 8, voting for the Top 16 begins March 10, and the winner will be named April 15 at the Governor’s Mansion in Springfield.

Local comedian Cassandra Simpson is converting a camper into Rolling Laughs, a mobile stage for open mic nights, comedy shows, and karaoke that will park at local business lots.

The stage will roll out in late spring.

Springfield Public School District is considering starting the school year earlier than mid-August to avoid safety issues and funding losses from fair parking.

A committee is reviewing a balanced semester plan (which may affect teacher–parent conferences) and could vote on the change at the next meeting.

The University of Illinois Springfield will host popular Star Parties at 8-10 p.m. on Feb.

27 and March 27 at the UIS Campus Observatory on the roof of Brookens Library—guests can view the moon, Jupiter, and star clusters if weather permits.

UIS Associate Professor John Martin will host free star parties at the UIS Campus Observatory on Feb.

27 and March 27, featuring telescopes to view the moon, Jupiter, the Orion Nebula and star clusters. Attendees can call 217-206-8342 at 7 p.m. on event nights to confirm weather conditions.

District 186's summer SCOPE program nearly closed because of lost funding but a 10-dollar weekly fee increase and a 10,000-dollar grant from the school board kept it running.

The board approved the change at a recent meeting, ensuring the program continues to serve local youth.

OSF HealthCare announced a new pancreatic cancer treatment — still in development — that could lead to clinical trials.

The statement was released recently to offer fresh hope for patient care.

Zumper data from Feb.

18 shows that median asking rents for Springfield apartments increased 5% from last January's $1,000 to about $1,050 in January, while one bedroom & two bedroom listings stayed near December levels.

UIS relief pitcher Isaac Graf earned GLVC Pitcher of the Week after pitching scoreless innings and saving a 3-2 win against Florida Southern this weekend — he will pitch again Friday at the UIS Baseball Field as the Prairie Stars face UMSL.

Calvary celebrated Anisley Johnson signing to play volleyball at Purdue Northwest after her graduation on Wednesday, Feb.

18. Her achievement marks a key step in her journey toward college athletics.

Trent Quarton, a Springfield High teacher who coached at New Berlin last season, was approved as the new head football coach by District 186 on Tuesday.

He replaces Jon Hebb and plans to foster a disciplined team culture in a competitive conference.

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.

Candlebox in Concert

7-11 p.m. — Boondocks — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary Seattle rockers Candlebox live during their Can't Quit You Tour.

Chunky Blanket Making Class with Jayme

2:30-5:30 p.m. — B's Creative Studio — $75.00 — Learn the art of hand knitting as you create your own cozy chunky blanket while making new friends.