Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield will host the world’s largest Big Boy locomotive when it arrives at the Amtrak Depot on Saturday, July 18 at 10:45 a.m. Streets including Washington, Madison & Jefferson will close for about 30 minutes and reopen after the train departs at 11:15 a.m.

An insurance company report has ranked Illinois highways by fatal crash counts since 2020 and found I-10, I-35 and other roads to be the riskiest this summer.

The data shows that crashes peak during evening hours, with 9 p.m. being the deadliest time.

Researchers from the University of Illinois and Purdue found rural residents are alarmed by rising electricity costs and loss of farmland as Illinois records 139 operating and 123 planned data centers — over 1,500 are in development nationwide.

This Wild Neighbors piece explains that the Northern Cardinal is a year-round visitor in local backyards, gardens, and parks.

Its bright red feathers and clear songs mark seasonal changes plus show its role in sustaining the local ecosystem by spreading seeds and eating insects.

A total solar eclipse will occur on Aug.

12 at about 11:34 a.m. ET in select parts of the world; here, Illinois residents will see a partial eclipse that makes the sun appear as if it has a bite taken out, so safe eclipse glasses are required.

Memorial Health earned its fifth consecutive Magnet with Distinction designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center for nursing excellence — officials said the honor places its hospital among fewer than 100 worldwide.

The hospital has held Magnet recognition for 20 years and will seek redesignation in 2030.

Normal Community grad Gavin Swartz foregoes his Indiana commitment and will sign with the Colorado Rockies after being picked in the 11th round — Limestone grad Travis Lutz was selected by the Cleveland Guardians in the 17th round.

The Springfield area boasts a rich legacy of state champions in football, basketball & more, with records dating back to the early 1900s.

The State Journal-Register has compiled a complete list with photos to highlight local athletic achievements.

House in the Field

12-8 p.m. — Duncan Park — Free entry — Experience a vibrant day of soulful Chicago-style house music and community celebration.

Cub/Card Paint Night with Ashley Blake

2-4 p.m. — Harvest Market — Cost TBA — Unleash your inner artist in a relaxed paint night creating cool cub or card paintings.

Nike Basketball Camp at Lanphier High School

July 20-24 — Lanphier High School — Pack your lunch — Improve your game with professional coaching focusing on skills, conditioning, and team play.

Levitt AMP Springfield Music Festival featuring Attic Salt

6:00-9:15 p.m. — Levitt AMP Springfield Music Series — Ticketed event — Enjoy a night of alternative rock with Attic Salt under the stars.

Saving Abel Concert at The Stadium

6-10:30 p.m. — The Stadium Smokehouse Bar and Grill — All ages welcome — Experience the Multi-Platinum Southern Rockers known for their hit 'Addicted' alongside special guests Claudey Blue and Death Do Us Part.