Good morning, Springfield.

Sangamon County Circuit Clerk Joe Roesch's office will host a passport registration day this Saturday, September 20 at VFW Post 755 — 2211 Old Jacksonville Rd from 9 a.m. to noon, where residents can apply for passports with the usual fees.

On Sunday, Springfield residents gathered for the Ride to Remember Parade to honor lives lost on 9/11 and the heroes who served—riding past the capitol and waving the American flag, a tradition that has united the community since 2001.

Parade Chair Diane Hughes stressed the need to educate the young about the tragic events while Firefighter Luke Fraker encouraged neighbors to help one another in tribute to those who sacrificed their lives.

Today, a crane is being set up in Springfield to demolish the former Pillsbury Plant with the 160 feet tall smokestack scheduled to fall either today or tomorrow and the five-floor Grocery Mix building set to follow soon.

Onlookers can watch the demolition from a designated area in the Pillsbury front yard—where seating and ice water will be provided—and visitors are directed to use off-street parking at 15th St. and Phillips Ave.

Governor Pritzker proclaimed Rail Safety Week from September 15-21 to remind residents to stay alert and follow safety rules at train tracks—helping reduce accidents and injuries.

The Illinois Commerce Commission and Operation Lifesaver will share life-saving tips during the week.

Local agencies supporting individuals with disabilities received $1.6 million in grant funds to enhance job placements—helping to expand local support for employment opportunities.

The funds were approved on September 15.

Mayor Misty Buscher announced that James Sullivan was replaced as director of the Office of Information Systems, and Jay Underfanger will take over the role.

The change follows a controversial social media post by the mayor about a city director celebrating a death—officials have not confirmed if the posts are connected.

Governor JB Pritzker ordered flags to be flown at half‑staff across Illinois to honor former Governor Jim Edgar — a friend and mentor who worked to make the state better.

The Massey Commission holds a community feedback meeting tonight at Memorial Learning Center—at 6 p.m.—to review workgroup recommendations on neighborhood safety before its final report is sent to the Sangamon County Board and submitted by Dec 1.

Dr. Kelly Hurst said those who cannot attend may send their comments online using the password—Sonya.

The UIS volleyball team extended its win streak to six matches after sweeping Slippery Rock 3-0 and defeating Bluefield State 3-1 on Saturday at the Hall of Fame City Challenge—coach Laura Ulrich highlighted that senior setter Erica Sledge passed 2000 career assists.

The team will host Maryville Saturday at 4:00 p.m. at TRAC for the Prairie Star Classic.

UIS Prairie Stars are hosting a busy homecoming week featuring women's golf today and planned volleyball, soccer and softball games through Sept.

21—fans will enjoy giveaways and a bonfire celebration as the team prepares to showcase its skills at Piper Glen and local venues.

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.

Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show

10 AM – 6 PM — Illinois State Fair Campground — Free Parking — Explore a dazzling array of gems, minerals, and fossils with activities for all ages.

Carve for the Carillon

11 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon — Free admission — Celebrate fall by carving pumpkins in a community tradition with laughter and creativity.