Good morning, Springfield.

A small business skill-sharing workshop will be held Tuesday, Sept.

22 at the Innovate Springfield space at Horace Mann downtown to cover storytelling, customer service, and artificial intelligence. Innovate Springfield plus the local Small Business Development Center will host free sessions with speakers like Stacy Skrysak and Gemma Long.

The Gold Star Mission will host its 10th annual Gold Star 500 bicycle event this month + the 500-mile ride starts in Chester on Sept.

16 and ends in Streamwood to honor fallen service members and support their families.

AAA reported diesel in Illinois has hit a record high at $6.26 a gallon, more than 60 percent above last year's prices.

Local business owners feel the impact as fuel costs force Ezell Excavating to spend up to $30,000 more in recent months.

America Ambulance Service acquired Dispatch Medical Transport (a New Berlin business offering non-emergency services) earlier this month and will relocate the base to Springfield while keeping the Dispatch name for its non-emergency operations.

The Springfield Art Association will host the Edwards Place Fine Arts Fair at 700 North 4th Street on Saturday from 10 to 5 and Sunday from 10 to 4.

The free event features original artwork, historical tours, and kids games and crafts along with a used book sale.

Springfield’s hotel occupancy increased by 12,000 room nights last year, reaching 57% from 54% in 2024 as visitors from 75 countries came for tourism.

Officials expect occupancy to reach 60% this year + further growth from sports tourism, conventions, and local attractions.

A heat advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. today in Christian, Sangamon, Shelby, Cumberland, Morgan and Scott counties as heat index values may reach 105; residents are advised to drink fluids, remain indoors (in air-conditioned rooms) and check on neighbors to prevent heat illness.

WAND’s annual blood drive with the American Red Cross is set for Oct.

13 at the Decatur Blood Donation Center from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. plus at the Lincoln Library in Springfield from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.; the first 25 donors at each site receive a free gift.

Link is a playful pit bull mix available for adoption at the Animal Protective League at 1001 Taintor Road in Springfield.

The shelter is open every day from noon to 5 p.m.

Nehemiah Expansion Inc. broke ground on 45 affordable homes on Springfield’s east side and construction will soon begin on houses with 2–4 bedrooms, at least 1.5 baths, and 2-car garages for families on a 350-person waiting list.

The project is the fifth phase of its affordable housing effort.