Good morning, Springfield.

In Springfield, the Committee of the Whole proposed new rules that require block party organizers to get 75% support from neighbors—this helps keep streets safe for residents and emergency crews.

The city council will vote on the ordinance next Tuesday before it goes to the mayor.

Schlee's Gourmet Bakery has opened in downtown Springfield — the upscale bakery and wine bar offers baked treats and wine to local food lovers.

American Airlines will resume a 6:00 a.m. flight to Chicago from Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport on October 7 — adding afternoon and evening departures with larger 65-seat jets that include a premium cabin.

The Sangamon County Board approved a resolution on September 9 to support these enhancements and boost local travel.

On Sunday, the Sangamon County Historical Society will host its 20th annual cemetery walk at Oak Ridge Cemetery from noon to 3:30 p.m. The event will feature actors dressed as historical figures and highlight immigrants — a theme honoring those who helped shape local history.

Springfield is set to host five events this weekend — the free Hispanic Heritage Festival will honor 21 Latin American nations with cultural activities and food samples on Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. at 502 S.

Spring St. — organized by Hispanic Women of Springfield and the Illinois State Museum.

The University of Illinois Springfield Alumni SAGE Society & Illinois State Historical Society will host a Fall Lunch & Learn Series with events on Oct.

16, Nov. 7 and Dec. 3 at Illini Country Club. Speakers A.J. Simmons, Deborah Brothers and Taryn Grant will present talks on political polarization, book bans and a new arts space while each event will cost $50 and start at noon.

UIS Chancellor Janet L.

Gooch was named to a four-year term on the NCAA Committee on Access, Opportunity and Impact — a committee that works to broaden student-athlete opportunities and promote inclusion. She said she is honored to represent UIS and looks forward to shaping fair policies in college sports.

Springfield City Council passed a plan Tuesday night to accept a $1.1 million grant for the City Water Light and Power grid—federal funds through the Illinois Finance Authority will cover most of the $1.67 million project so citizens pay no cost.

Chief Utility Engineer Doug Brown said the grant will modernize the grid by replacing circuit breakers, reclosers, and underground vault-mounted switches to improve real-time monitoring and restoration time.

On Monday evening, a panel of city officials and activists answered questions on police brutality and racial violence, and Springfield Police Commander Brandon Golden assured residents that SPD acted with the community's best interests in mind.

Panelists offered divided views on adopting Massey Commission recommendations—community leaders urged more transparency with police disciplinary records for accountability.

Memorial Health is offering free mammograms for women age 40 and older who are uninsured or underinsured throughout October at all five hospitals, including Springfield Memorial, with screenings by appointment only—educational materials on breast health and self-exams will also be provided.

Morgan Wiezorek and Alexis Neumann helped the Titans win 2 sets to 0 over Rochester with scores of 25-17 and 25-8—after a 9-0 run in the second set.

Glenwood now is 16-3 overall and 6-0 in CS8 play as the win boosted their season record.

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.