Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield police and an off-duty firefighter worked together today during an emergency call to save a life, officials confirmed.

A new Filipino restaurant specializing in grilled chicken opened today in Springfield, offering a small menu with bold flavor to local diners.

The eatery aims to bring authentic Filipino tastes to the community.

A new family entertainment center will open today in Springfield to offer families a fresh venue for leisure & games.

The facility is expected to add to local options for enjoyable outings.

LA Fitness at 2510 Wabash Ave will permanently close tomorrow, July 31, with memberships transferring to FitClub at 3631 South Sixth Street starting Aug.

1, and monthly dues will remain unchanged + prepaid sessions will be honored.

In August, Springfield will host a range of events — music, theater, and history—with Everclear scheduled for Aug.

7 at Danenberger Family Vineyards and concerts by Bailey Zimmerman, Lainey Wilson, and Matchbox Twenty later, along with a historic fashion show and the Powerlight Festival.

Caterpillar announced a $10M workforce commitment to invest in talent and training programs in Springfield — a move expected to boost local job opportunities pending regulatory approval.

PPS school board will hold a special meeting Friday to discuss the future of its Elite program.

The board will review possible changes that may affect local students.

On Tuesday, the U of I Board of Trustees released guidelines for selecting a new president to succeed Tim Killeen (who plans to retire next June 30) and expects to conclude the search by the end of the year, emphasizing strong leadership and community engagement.

Experts say August is a key time for Springfield gardeners to plant cool-weather vegetables (such as leafy greens, root veggies, and herbs) to prepare for a fall harvest.

They advise gardeners to use proper tools and check forecasted frost dates to ensure success.

Health experts warned that cyclosporiasis cases have increased nationwide, urging Springfield families to thoroughly wash produce and hands to lower infection risk.

The CDC recommends rinsing fruits and vegetables under cool running water and scrubbing firmer items with a brush (which may help remove contaminants).

In June, a Springfield home sold for over $1 million while several county properties sold for more than $700,000 + showing a rise in upscale sales+.

IHSA released its complete schedule for the 2026 high school football season on July 22, with team practices starting Aug.

5 and games beginning Aug. 21. Litchfield canceled its varsity season due to low upperclassmen participation (its games will be forfeited unless replaced).

The Women's Pro Baseball League has named managers for its inaugural season starting Friday at Robin Roberts Stadium in Springfield.

Former MLB players Keith Foulke, Matt Williams, and Eric Young lead three teams (with Rachelle Henley as the league's first female manager) as the debut weekend unfolds.