Good morning, Springfield.

At Stadium Smokehouse BBQ, local businesses and volunteers filled hundreds of backpacks with school supplies to help students prepare for the new school year; Beth Rees said even a few supplies can ease family costs.

The Illinois State Fair will host free concerts with Sweet performing at Reisch Pavilion on Aug.

15 and 38 Special and Warrant at Grandstand on Aug. 17. More shows by Sinead Angele, Vertical Horizon, and Jordan Feliz will follow through Aug. 23, though the lineup does not include fair admission.

Governor Pritzker unveiled this year's state fair butter cow on Thursday, Aug.

13 in Springfield — the unique display is part of the annual fair attraction that is expected to charm local visitors.

Preservation Inc. volunteers stabilize three historic buildings on the former Benedictine University campus by adding new roofs and plumbing to the 1908 music Conservatory, the original Ursuline Academy and a late 1800s chapel.

Tony Libri said long-term plans include artist studios, a coffee shop (and museum spaces).

Retired Springfield anesthesiologist Babu Prasad donated $1 million to HSHS St. John’s Children's Hospital NICU for new equipment and technology, officials said.

Country Living - Minutes From Springfield

3 bed - 2.5 bath - walk-out basement - 2.5 car attached garage PLUS 3 car detached garage PLUS additional 3 car garage with loft and 3 horse stalls - 5.1 acres - fenced pasture