Good morning, Springfield.

Today, demolition began at the former Pillsbury factory site in Springfield as crews and onlookers gathered early to dismantle the smokestack+signaling the start of neighborhood renewal.

The process will take several months and is expected to clear the way for new developments in the area.

UIS students, faculty and staff assembled 1,000 care kits for active-duty military personnel in support of Operation — Care and Comfort — on September 11 to mark 9/11 Day of Service, with over 130 volunteers joining the event.

The Springfield Public Schools District 186 Board of Education — which oversees local schools — has begun its search for a new permanent superintendent set to start on July 1 and invites staff, parents and community members to share input via an anonymous online survey open until September 27 at 11:45 p.m. The Illinois Association of School Boards will compile the survey results to form a candidate profile.

Today the Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced nearly $1 million in grants for 15 land stewardship programs on natural areas managed by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission—funds that will help buy equipment and hire staff for prescribed fire, invasive species control, and fire breaks. The grant program aims to improve conservation efforts across protected lands.

Sangamon County Sheriff Paula Crouch signed 10 Shared Principles with the NAACP to promote fairness and trust between law enforcement and the community.

The guidelines call for anti-discrimination, proper training, and strengthened partnerships to build public confidence.

Gov. Pritzker issued an executive order that directed the Illinois Department of Public Health to work with state agencies to create vaccine guidelines for COVID‑19, flu, RSV and routine vaccines for all age groups.

The standing orders—based on scientific recommendations—aim to help providers and families as federal vaccination protocols change.

Springfield’s Jefferson and Madison underpasses are finalists for America’s Transportation Awards for making travel safer and easier.

Online voting for the People’s Choice Award began September 12 and ends November 17—city leaders say the project has cut noise and reduced delays.

Meet Key, a one-year-old grey short-haired male cat who loves cuddles and attention—APL is open daily from 12 to 5 p.m. at 1001 Taintor Rd for adoption viewings.

Today, the Illinois Springfield women's soccer team will host Quincy at 5:00 p.m.—after a 3-3 draw against William Jewell—while they prepare to travel for a road contest against Truman State on Sunday at 2:30 p.m. This doubleheader is a highlight of Homecoming week, which also features alumni gatherings at the soccer facility.

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.

2025 GSDCA National Specialty Show

Event duration: Oct 17-25 — Illinois State Fairground — Entry fees vary — Celebrate the love of German Shepherds with competitions and exhibitions.