Good morning, Springfield.

After a recent trip to Ukraine, the Central Illinois Humanitarian Group joined local partners to build a foster home and school in Springfield (supporting children and families with improved care).

Atlas, a playful four-month-old pitbull mix (up for adoption from the Animal Protective League), is winning hearts with his energetic charm and offers residents a chance to add a loving companion to their family.

The Illinois State Museum in Springfield will host the Route 66 Monarch Festival at the Illinois State Fairgrounds on Saturday, Sept.

12 from 4 to 6 p.m., featuring free games, activities, and a monarch butterfly release at 4 (free movie screening of Cars from 6 to 8 p.m.).

Several WPBL players from New York Heights and Boston Hunters visited HSHS St. John's Children's Hospital on Thursday to greet patients and staff.

They signed autographs and a window mural — a gesture of thanks ahead of their game at Robin Roberts Stadium.

Jennifer Gill, who retired after more than 12 years as superintendent in Springfield public schools, was appointed to the Bank of Springfield board on Aug.

12 (she has 35 years of education experience). Her background is expected to bring valuable insight to the bank.

Illinois State Museum will host the Route 66 Monarch Festival in the coming weeks, featuring exhibits and art that celebrate Route 66 heritage — details on programming are pending at the museum.

S&P Global Ratings raised Illinois’ general obligation bond rating from an A- to an A after balanced budgets + stronger operating reserves secured the state’s 12th upgrade since Pritzker took office in 2019.

Illinois will use funds from a Meta settlement to boost youth mental health programs; state officials say the funds will support new services for young people in local schools + community centers.

Officials expect plans to be announced soon.

An extreme heat warning is in effect until 7 p.m. Saturday, urging residents to stay in air-conditioned rooms, drink plenty of fluids, and check on neighbors due to risks of heat illnesses.

Officials advise keeping children and pets out of parked vehicles and wearing loose, lightweight clothing.

Illinois hospitals stand to lose over $4 billion starting in 2028 as new Medicaid rules cap state directed payments at Medicare rates — a change that may force many safety-net and critical access facilities to cut services or staff.

The policy is part of broader measures to reduce Medicaid spending.

The American Flat Track racing series returns to Springfield Mile this weekend for a season finale doubleheader — opening ceremonies begin at Illinois State Fairgrounds at 1:40 p.m. Saturday and 1:30 p.m. Sunday.