Good morning, Springfield.

Yesterday, Springfield hosted a busy weekend with the Route 66 Mother Road Festival downtown, a Halloween Park scavenger hunt in four parks, a farm night at Bomke’s Patch, and high school football games; today, Motorheads hosts Lick Creek Live at 8:30 p.m.—Sunday will feature a 5k foot race and Grand Market downtown.

A gas leak at the north hangar of the Springfield capitol airport on September 26th led to an evacuation and drew a fire department response.

Local business owner Bree Mendenhall of Brezie’s Roasted Beans just outside Springfield saw higher supply costs after tariffs raised prices on imported items — cups, straws, and lids — and caused delays in delivery.

University of Illinois professor Ridley said consumers now face higher prices as tariffs impact these goods.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum opens a new exhibit today that uses special technologies—designed for delicate items—to display rare artifacts.

The exhibit Lincoln: A Life and Legacy that Defined a Nation shows items such as Lincoln’s handwritten inaugural address and a Medal of Honor before rotating out early next year.

Officials and local business leaders met Friday as The Citizen's Club panel discussed plans to help downtown Springfield recover after a fire forced several shops to close—residents stressed that clear parking signs and a new government agency are needed to improve communication.

City officials and Downtown Springfield Inc are working on a master plan to boost the area, though business owners are waiting for firm steps to protect their livelihoods.

The Springfield Flagship Center launched the first 24/7 drive-through DMV kiosks today—customers can renew licenses, register vehicles, and print temporary documents from their cars at 2701 S.

Dirksen Parkway while new applicants still need to visit in person.

The Illinois Birth Equity Blueprint was released Thursday to improve maternal health— it aims to expand investments, promote access to birthing care, standardize risk assessment and develop accountability measures.

Governor Pritzker and Lieutenant Governor Stratton said the plan is part of a long-term initiative to create safe and affordable conditions for mothers.

The Illinois Springfield volleyball team opened GLVC play by hosting Lewis on Friday at 6:00 p.m.—fans wore purple for Hazing Prevention Night—and will face Indianapolis at TRAC later today at 3:00 p.m. The Stars, coming off a close homecoming match against Maryville, look to build momentum as key players led strong efforts during the weekend.

Williamsville won 50-36 over Stanford Olympia on Sept.

26 using an offensive clinic that built a 28-8 halftime lead—senior Matthew Miller ran a 38-yard touchdown to seal the win while senior quarterback Jackson Sanders threw for two scores. Stanford Olympia gained over 400 rushing yards and recovered three onside kicks but could not close the gap.

The UIS men's cross country team returned to the national rankings at No. 28 after receiving votes last week and will race at the Lucian Rosa Invitational at Parkside this weekend—aiming to climb higher in regional and national standings.

The team remains No. 6 in the Midwest rankings as other schools shifted positions.

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.

Dads to Doulas Workshop

3-8 p.m. — 3000 S Dirksen Pkwy, Springfield, IL — Free entry — Empower fathers with vital knowledge for maternal health and infant advocacy.

Wicked Which? Paint Night with Ashley Blake

1-3 p.m. — Harvest Market — All ages welcome — Unleash your creativity at a Halloween-themed paint night with Ashley Blake.