Good morning, Springfield.

On Monday morning, Springfield Park District unveiled $1.3 million improvements to Washington Park Botanical Garden’s conservatory — including a new 50-foot dome, entryway windows and upgraded heating and cooling.

The renovations, funded by the William Ed Quarry Trust and a state tourism grant, support the 55-year-old landmark.

A three-year-old girl was severely injured when a neighborhood dog attacked her on Aug.

30 in Decatur; the dog was later euthanized after its owners surrendered it, and she is now receiving treatment by specialists in Springfield.

The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce is tracking the state budget and preparing for its State of Greater Springfield event today and Small Business Awards on June 23 at Crown Plaza.

CEO Mike Murphy said a rail relocation near the medical district in 2027 could boost local growth.

HoneyBaked Ham is considering Springfield for a new franchise due to its business friendly climate and strong family community.

Company leader Eric Edwards said a nationwide market review (completed recently) ranked Springfield among the top choices for expansion.

At a conference hosted by the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and Illinois Retail Merchants Association on Tuesday, May 12, University of Illinois System President Tim Killeen told business leaders in Springfield that university research has spurred inventions that boost companies and strengthen the community’s economy.

Melodi Hankins joined WRSP as the new FOX evening anchor and viewers can watch her at 5:30 on FOX Illinois News today; she will appear at 9 next week + she aims to bring authentic local news to Springfield.

Gas prices in Springfield remain steady as today's average for a gallon of regular gasoline is $4.86 — a slight drop of three cents from last week and 70 cents higher than a month ago.

Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs invites students ages 8 to 18 to enter the 14th Cream of the Crop Photography Contest by June 12 to capture local agriculture and win Bright Start scholarships (first prize $1,000, second $500, third $250).

District 186 approved an amended fiscal year 2026 budget after spending $18 million over its income, and it will file a deficit reduction plan with the State Board of Education as it faces lower federal funding; the shortfall (1.2 times its ending fund balance) must be balanced within three years.

On April 15, Eric Whitfield, director of economic development at Ameren IL, testified to an IL House committee at the State Capitol about how growing data centers affect regional power resources & Citizens Utility Board’s Sarah Moskowitz warned that continued demand could raise local bills by up to $70 per month.

Glenwood won its second straight CS8 boys tennis title on Monday at the indoor Springfield Racquet & Fitness Center after rain delayed play at Illinois College.

The Titans scored 28 points to capture both the singles & doubles draws, while Springfield High finished second.

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.

Getting Started With Wills & Trusts

3:30 p.m. — Edwards Group LLC — Free entry — Learn the essentials of estate planning in this informative workshop for families.