Good morning, Springfield.

Local organizers are hosting a duck race and other community events in Springfield this weekend—details on times and locations will be announced soon.

A Sangamon County jury found Jahsen Thomas guilty of First-Degree Murder and Aggravated Battery with a Firearm for killing Courtney Smith on April 23rd, 2021 in Springfield — a sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 18th.

The Du Quoin State Fair in Perry County is underway until September 1 and offers Springfield residents a free alternative to the Illinois State Fair with agriculture exhibits, concerts, carnival rides and local foods—visitors can choose daily parking for $10 to $15 or a $30 season pass.

A new law was signed last week and will take effect on January 1 to provide free veterinary care for retired police dogs in Springfield, plus it will reimburse handlers up to $1,500 using funds from specialty K9 license plates.

Four retired K9 dogs in Sangamon County will benefit from this program that supports their ongoing care after service.

Coming off a 1A state title last season and losing only two seniors, the Williamsville Bullets girls cross country team will try to return to state under new head coach Hayley Chladney who replaced Tyler Casson.

The boys team is also aiming for state + players say last season's win has set high expectations for the upcoming season.

The Athens Warriors will begin a new season with a young core after a regional championship win last year — returning players Arabelle Cunningham and Lydia Hart join head coach Britani Morrison to build the team for the future.

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.

Art Spectacular

10 a.m.–5 p.m. — Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon — Free admission — Celebrate 20 years of art and music at Central Illinois' premier fine art fair featuring local and regional artists.

Book Discussion: Thinking Fast and Slow

10 AM – 12 PM — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Engage in a thought-provoking discussion on behavioral finance inspired by Daniel Kahneman's insights.

Pumpkin Spice Gnome Paint Night with Ashley Blake

1-3 p.m. — Harvest Market — Cost includes materials — Paint a cozy Pumpkin Spice Gnome and enjoy fall vibes with fellow art lovers.