Good morning, Springfield.

The inaugural Stars of Lincoln Ceremony honored EMS professionals from across Illinois, recognizing their service + boosting local pride.

The event brought together officials + community leaders to celebrate emergency care excellence.

Chemring Energetic Devices won the 2026 Makers Madness contest on Wednesday when it was named the Coolest Thing Made in Illinois for its NASA Standard Initiator — a device engineered in Downers Grove that powered Artemis II’s historic lunar mission.

It is also used on Mars landers and Atlas launchers.

Trader Joe’s agreed to pay $7.4M in a settlement for 2019 credit and debit card transactions that showed extra card digits at 22 stores, so eligible shoppers must file a claim by June 9 + check the settlement website for details.

Financial institutions urge lawmakers to repeal an Illinois law that blocks fees on tax and tips, warning that confusion in card processing may reduce revenue if banks adjust fees.

Lawmakers and retailers continue to debate the rule’s impact ahead of its effect on July 1.

Lifestar Ambulance Service will stop operating in Springfield and Sangamon County on May 26 after Memorial Health System removed it from its network following a performance improvement plan — officials say America Ambulance and Medics First will handle emergency calls.

Clover is a one-year-old, three-legged black cat waiting for adoption at Animal Protective League.

Interested adopters can call (217-544-7387) or visit the shelter website.

Sam Antonacci made his major league debut for the White Sox on Wednesday, getting a hit and key plays after being called up from Triple-A following strong numbers in Charlotte.

The 23-year-old, who grew up near Springfield, said his major league call-up is a dream come true.

The Pleasant Plains bats scored nine runs in the third inning for a 12-2 win over PORTA in Thursday's Sangamo conference baseball game + the Cardinals improved to 4-0; they will host Springfield High for a 6:30 p.m. first pitch today.

Highland Cow Paint Night with Ashley Blake

2-4 p.m. — Harvest Market — No cost info provided — Unleash creativity as you paint a quirky Highland Cow masterpiece under expert guidance.