Good morning, Springfield.

The Illinois State Fair reaches its halfway point today with Twosday offering $2 admission and $2 carnival rides—Sheryl Crow headlines the grandstand while Stephen Wilson Jr. performs and truck and tractor pulls continue at the Arena.

Richard Wilson, 47, from Springfield was arrested in Pike County last week for an organized multi-county theft ring that stole more than $10,000 in items including side-by-side vehicles, dirt bikes, mowers, and trailers from several communities in Illinois and Missouri—authorities said a search of his home found evidence as the investigation continues.

Pike County Sheriffs arrested Richard Wilson, 47, from Springfield last week on charges of theft over $10,000 connected to an organized multi-state operation spanning Illinois and Missouri—his home search turned up utility vehicles, dirt bikes, and mowers reported stolen from local neighborhoods.

Megan Moroney's concert at the Illinois State Fair broke the grandstand attendance record on Sunday night—drawing 15,532 fans, which is about 100 more than the previous record set by Lil Wayne.

Springfield Public Schools and the Springfield Education Association approved a two-year contract Tuesday that gives teachers a 4% raise for this school year and a 3.5% raise next year; the deal sets new teacher salaries above $50,000 and includes extra pay for those with smaller classes—officials said the payroll team had time to update checks before the start of classes.

Representative Jed Davis said on August 11 that DCFS used uncertified interns to remove children from families; however, DCFS said all investigators are certified and that Davis is mistaken.

The agency explained that its guidelines allow certified roles beyond Child Protection Specialists—ensuring that legal standards are met.

Governor Pritzker signed Sonya Massey’s Bill into law to reform police hiring by requiring detailed reviews of applicants’ work records—this reform follows the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey in July last year and lowers the population needed for police merit boards.

Illinois State Police celebrated Alicia's Law today when House Bill 2586, named for Alicia Kozakiewicz, dedicated permanent resources to investigate internet crimes against children—ISP Director Brendan F.

Kelly said the law will help protect minors from online exploitation.

UIS promoted D’Angelo Hughes to full-time assistant coach for the women's basketball team.

The Springfield native and Southeast High School graduate brings championship experience—having played four seasons at Ferris State—to help grow the Prairie Stars program.

Ask a Library Techie

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Get one-on-one tech assistance with your devices from knowledgeable staff members.

Def Leppard Concert

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Illinois State Fairground — Ticket prices vary — Rock out with the legendary British heavy metal band known for their iconic anthems and powerful performances.

Vachel Lindsay Home Guided Tour

9:45-10:15 a.m. — Vachel Lindsay Home State Historic Site — Free entry — Explore the legacy of poet Vachel Lindsay with art displays and a chance to win his collected works.

Balloons Over 66 5K

8 AM – 12 PM — Lincoln Community High School — Registration required — Enjoy a morning 5K run with friends and family in a vibrant community setting.

Springfield Virtual Job Fair

4-6 p.m. — Crowne Plaza Springfield – Convention Ctr by IHG — Free registration — Connect with employers and get AI matched for interviews in a virtual setting.

Healing Arts Festival

2-10 p.m. — Buzz Bomb Brewing Co — Free entry — Experience a vibrant community gathering featuring live music, healthy food, and local art.

Illinois Prairie Pastel Society 'Pastel Play' Member Show

10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Athens Municipal Library — Free entry — Explore vibrant pastel artworks during this engaging member exhibition.

Tour de Heartland

8 AM – 1 PM — Historic Marbold Farmstead — Registration fee applies — Enjoy a bike ride fundraiser supporting the Historic Marbold Farmstead Association.

Illinois Senior Games

9 AM – 6 PM — Iles Park — Registration open — Compete in various sports including pickleball during this exciting senior Olympics event.