Good morning, Springfield.

Officials hosted a free 100 Days Out lunch celebration Tuesday at the Reisch Pavilion on the state fairgrounds to preview the Illinois State Fair; the event featured fair food and revealed new vendors while passes remain on sale until Aug.

1 (the fair opens on Aug. 13).

The Abe Lincoln Chapter of Bikers Against Child Abuse connects children with trusted biker mentors through a confidential hotline and in-person support in Springfield, helping kids face challenges.

The group urges community members to join & alert authorities if they see warning signs.

The Illinois State Museum will host 'Miles of Memories'—an exhibit featuring oral history interviews from over 100 locals and memorabilia celebrating Route 66's centennial—from May 23 to next April 4.

Visitors will see souvenirs, neon signs, and classic advertising that bring the Mother Road to life.

May brings several local events — a charity run starts at 10 a.m. Sat.

May 9 at downtown's 117 S. Seventh St., the International Carillon Festival runs 6 to 9 p.m. May 21 to 24 at Washington Park’s Carillon, and Pridefest and markets add local flair —.

The U.S. Postal Service released eight new stamps on Tuesday, May 5, that honor Route 66’s centennial using photos by David J.

Schwartz from his 42 trips. His images capture historic roadside landmarks including a 1929 Model A Ford near Springfield (a nod to the highway’s heritage).

ISU and striking workers reached a tentative contract agreement after 12 hours of negotiations on May 5.

They planned to meet again (to finalize details) in the coming days.

District 186 shifted its alternative education programs from Douglas School to Lawrence Education Center after Springfield Learning Academy moved to White Oaks Mall.

The board approved the change Monday, and Douglas will get a new roof — its future use remains undecided.

Families of officers killed in the line of duty gather today for the First Annual Memorial Park Ceremony at 2 p.m. at Illinois State Police Memorial Park (615 E.

Lawrence St) as the Illinois State Police and its Heritage Foundation honor their sacrifice.

Springfield Police Chief Joe Behl has launched a new wellness initiative that updates the gym and offers Yoga for First Responders, healthy cooking classes, and chiropractic care — additional plans include a peer support program and a comfort dog to support officers and victims at the end of June.

Illinois shoppers should check their freezers for a recalled Aldi dessert due to possible glass contamination.

The FDA reported that some Specially Selected créme brûlée desserts sold at Aldi (identified by a use-by date of 5/9 and product number) may contain glass fragments so customers should return or discard the product.

Springfield High won the Central State Eight conference championship on Tuesday, May 5 with a 2-0 shutout over Glenwood as Addi Maddox scored two goals in the second half and Lydia Auble secured the win.

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.

Paint with Ashley Blake

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Library - Pizza and Sports Bar — Cost covers materials — Enjoy a creative night painting a whimsical library gnome with guidance from Ashley Blake.