Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield ICON launched the 2026 Worst Alley Makeover Contest to clean up neglected alleys in our community.

Residents will submit photos by noon March 20 + vote online from March 22 to 31, with two winning alleys set for a full makeover on United Way Day of Caring and winners announced on April 6.

UIS is backing a new nine-week program for minority entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders — with a two-hour Excel workshop led by Professor Serkan Karadas.

The program includes a visit to Innovate Springfield during the week of Mar. 16 to 20.

Springfield's historic Bunn has been sold to Chicago-based Ali Group (the family ownership ended Thursday), raising questions about the local facilities and around 850 jobs.

Community members now seek clarity about the future of spin-off businesses like Bunn Gourmet.

A new exhibit at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum shows how the Pillsbury mill shaped Springfield’s economy + community with tools, photos, and shared memories, and it will display artifacts for six months.

The 76th Illinois Secretary of State Vehicle Show will be held from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sept.

12 in downtown Springfield, featuring a tribute to the iconic 1957 Chevy Bel Air and limited-edition specialty plates available until May 29 (visitors are invited to celebrate this classic automotive tradition).

Visit Springfield is accepting applications for 2026 local tourism grants until 3:00 p.m. on April 13 — $35,000 in funds will be available for use throughout the calendar year.

No. 25 Illinois Springfield baseball will open GLVC play this weekend with a four-game road series at William Jewell in Liberty, Mo.

The teams will play doubleheaders at 1:00 p.m. on Friday + Saturday with games scheduled for nine, seven, seven, and nine innings.

Illinois Springfield men's golf team finished fifth at the Las Vegas Warrior Invitational at The Legacy Golf Club on Wednesday and Thursday; they improved each round to post a total of 903 (309-298-296) and closed within nine strokes of conference rival Quincy, with head coach Josh Edison praising their progress.

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.

Toddler Time Storytime

10:30-11:00 a.m. — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Enjoy songs, stories, and activities that foster language skills for toddlers.