Good morning, Springfield.

Storm, a gentle 5-year-old brown-and-white tabby with an independent streak, is available for foster or adoption at Animal Protective League (1001 Taintor Road) in Springfield, open every day from noon to 5 p.m.

Legendary rock band Starship featuring Mickey Thomas will headline the Route 66 Centennial Celebration on November 11 at Route 66 Motorheads Bar and Grill in Springfield.

The event also includes a statewide conference that gathers community and tourism leaders.

Gas prices have reached $4.99 a gallon in Springfield, causing drivers to pay nearly $700 monthly for rides; local dealership Green Hyundai said customers are opting for hybrids to save up to $254 each month & many are switching from large SUVs to more fuel-efficient models.

Families and early childhood advocates gathered yesterday outside the State Capitol to urge lawmakers for increased funding for Early Intervention programs.

The group argued that more support is needed as providers struggle with long waitlists and low wages.

City officials began removing downtown parking meters today at 3:31 a.m. as part of the Downtown and Medical District Master Plan; free, timed parking remains and enforcement continues to ensure vehicles follow posted time limits.

APL Dog of the Week Birdie is a 2-year-old black Lab mix looking for a forever home.

She is available for foster or adoption at the Animal Protective League at 1001 Taintor Road + is open every day from noon to 5 p.m.

UIS baseball hosts NCAA Division II tournament games today at 11 a.m. at UIS Baseball Fields where the Prairie Stars—earning the No. 2 seed—face Indianapolis in a double-elimination round that runs through Saturday.

Girls track athletes from the Springfield area qualify for the state meet in Charleston from May 21 to May 23.

Chatham Glenwood runners led Class 3A qualifiers, and several sectionals—including in 2A, 1A, Shelbyville, Maroa-Forsyth, and Tremont—are scheduled for today.

Kreston Shultz threw a complete game shutout for Pleasant Plains in a 5 to 0 win + Andrew Potthoff drove in three runs in the sixth inning.

Lincoln plays North Mac on Friday while Pleasant Plains will host Limestone and Routt in a Friday evening doubleheader.

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.