Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield is gearing up for a tourism boost in 2026 as the Route 66 centennial and the opening of Scheels Sports Park will draw international visitors; Scott Dahl of the Convention and Visitors Bureau said the city spent eight years improving attractions like the Illinois State Fairgrounds Route 66 Experience + Bob Waldmire exhibit.

Stacy Davis Gates was elected as the new leader of the Illinois Federation of Teachers and called on lawmakers to tax billionaires and corporations to boost school funding; union members will meet at the Statehouse on Oct 29 to lobby for a fair tax code.

Her team includes Cyndi Oberle-Dahm, Pankaj Sharma, and John Miller—each set to improve education funding across the state.

A federal judge is expected to rule in the coming weeks on Illinois’ law that bans banks from charging fees on the tax and tip portions of debit and credit card transactions — the law was included in the state’s FY2025 budget last May and its start date was delayed to allow legal challenges. Lawmakers and financial institutions have clashed over the measure, which could become the first of its kind if upheld.

State Rep. Mike Coffey met with Express Employment Professionals leaders in the 95th District during his Mike on Main Street tours to learn how state policies have challenged business growth — he said that red tape could slow job creation in Springfield.

Illinois State Police have warned local drivers to watch for deer during fall when deer are most active.

The Department of Natural Resources noted that most deer accidents occur between 5-8 a.m. and 5-10 p.m.—so drivers should use caution near woodlots and fields.

The University of Illinois Springfield will unveil a bright yellow bench designed to raise suicide prevention awareness at noon on October 27 on the southeast corner of University Hall’s sidewalk—donated by Josh’s Benches, a nonprofit that spreads mental health information.

A mental health check-in event will follow on the Student Union north patio where attendees can enjoy coloring, journaling and snacks.

In September, Sangamon County's median home list price dropped to $201,111—a 4.7% decrease from August as new listings numbered 224.

Homes averaged 1,809 square feet at $112 per square foot, reflecting slow changes in the local market.

The UIS men’s cross country team will race in the GLVC Championship today at Lewis Cross Country Course in Romeoville with the 8K starting at 10:30 a.m. CT under cool, cloudy conditions.

The team is ranked third in the preseason poll—mixing experienced runners and newcomers who helped post a strong finish in a recent meet.

The UIS Athletics Department announced that tickets are on sale for the 2025-26 men's and women's basketball seasons at TRAC.

The men's team will open on Nov. 18 at 7:00 p.m. against Judson University and the women's team will start on Nov. 22 at 1:00 p.m., while single tickets cost from $5 for youth to $15 for reserved seating — season passes offer discounted rates.

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.

Flight Instructor Refresher Course

10:00 AM – 7:30 PM — Northfield Inn Suites and Conference Center — $65 — Enhance your aviation skills with this comprehensive refresher course for flight instructors.

Ansar Shrine Circus

7-8:30 p.m. — Bank of Springfield Center — Tickets required — Prepare to be amazed by death-defying acrobats, amazing animal performances, and hilarious clowns.

Springfield Marathon, Harvest Wind Half Marathon & 10K

8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. — Danenberger Family Vineyards — Check website for registration — Experience a thrilling day of running with a Boston Marathon qualifying course amidst beautiful vineyards.

Firefighters' Lake Club Trivia Night

7-10 p.m. — Firefighters Lake Club — $10 entry — Challenge your knowledge with general trivia and compete for cash prizes.

Live Music at BuzzBomb with Ryne Thorson

8-9 p.m. — Buzz Bomb Brewing Co — Cost info not provided — Enjoy live music performances while savoring craft brews.