Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield offers five weekend events, including a free Dana-Thomas House tour at 10 a.m. Saturday, an Easter egg drive-thru at 9 a.m. Saturday, wine tasting at 4 p.m. Saturday, a $7 concert Friday, and a beginner crochet class at 9 a.m. Saturday.

Illinois stores have updated hours for Easter Sunday, April 5; many retailers like Ace Hardware and Home Depot will be open while Macy's and Target will be closed, so shoppers should call ahead for local details.

Illinois House is considering a bill that would require districts to add Latin American history to social studies classes next school year.

Lawmakers plan to provide materials and training (to support a broader understanding of Latino contributions) while some worry there is not enough time for teacher preparation.

Illinois DCFS will begin Child Abuse Prevention Month tomorrow with a pinwheel planting ceremony and press conference at HSHS St. John’s Hospital Pavilion — elected officials and child welfare advocates will stress safe, nurturing homes through statewide events.

CWLP won first place at the Illinois Section of the American Water Works Association District 3 taste test on Mar.

31, qualifying the utility for a statewide competition in April — judges praised the water’s clarity, taste, and odor.

State Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield) proposed a bipartisan measure to create the Capital Area Tourism Authority, which could expand the BOS Center and build a downtown hotel using hotel revenue—with no new taxes for Springfield residents—and a subject matter hearing is scheduled for Thursday.

State Sen. Doris Turner filed Senate Bill 3499 to form a Capital Area Tourism Authority that will manage a new downtown hotel linked to the Bank of Springfield Center and expand its event space — the bill goes to the Senate Revenue Committee on Thursday while officials plan further actions.

Dietitian Erin Zepp is hosting a class at Memorial Wellness Center to show how side dishes can be made healthier by adding proteins and colorful vegetables (an easy way to boost nutrition) for upcoming meals.

Toddler Time Storytime

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