Good morning, Springfield.

A Springfield news station was drawn into a free speech controversy when former Marketplace anchor Beni Harmony resigned on Sept.

15 after airing a tribute to conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, even though the station said it had not fired anyone in 90 days. Tyler Robinson turned himself in on Sept. 11 and faced seven felony charges including aggravated murder—local officials said they will seek the death penalty.

October in Springfield will offer many fall events—ranging from horse shows and garish haunted houses to historical tours and local festivals—for families seeking seasonal fun.

The month-long lineup includes a Halloween Parade and community gatherings at local venues.

Driver Engineer Jake Perkins of the Springfield Fire Department and Officer Jared Spaid of the Springfield Police Department were honored with the Life Saving Award after quickly responding to a medical emergency call— their decisive actions made a critical difference.

The Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance will launch a free monthly workshop series to help local entrepreneurs and small business owners improve business skills and network—registration is required for attendance.

The program covers topics such as site selection, data tools, and local incentives with the first session scheduled for Thursday, September 25.

Springfield Public School District 186 is asking for public input to help choose a new superintendent after Jennifer Gill retires at the end of the school year—an online survey is available until September 27.

University of Illinois Springfield has begun construction on a new Library Commons—a $42.5 million, 52,000-square-foot building—that will open in fall, and the building is located between the Student Union and the Health Sciences building.

This project aims to prepare students for future careers, following current employer expectations.

Better Newspapers Inc sold eight papers from central and southern regions to Paxton Media Group without giving the 120 days’ notice required by the new Strengthening Community Media Act, and local clerks and journalists said they only learned of the sale when it was announced.

Sen. Steve Stadelman said the lack of enforcement means lawmakers may review the law soon — local stakeholders now wonder how future sales will be handled.

Crews began demolishing the 160-foot tall Smokestack at the former Pillsbury Mills site on Sept.

18th—crowds watched along Phillips Avenue as the work started.

On Friday, Sacred Heart-Griffin beat Quincy Notre Dame 42—26 as junior quarterback Cam Brinkman and wide receiver Andrew Wolters led the game with key scores.

Brinkman finished with 183 yards and two touchdowns while Wolters caught six passes for 123 yards and two scores, helping secure the win.

The Illinois Springfield men’s cross country team participated in the Bradley Intercollegiate on Sept.

19 at Detweiller Park in Peoria, where the men’s 8K race began at 5:15 p.m.—a partial squad of underclassmen gained valuable experience among over 20 competing teams. Fans parked at the venue and checked Shazam Racing for race results.

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.