Good morning, Springfield.

Schnucks announced on Oct.

30 a food drive to support local food banks and pantries amid uncertainty over SNAP benefits — Springfield stores collected food donations to help residents in need.

United Way of Central Illinois launched a Food Insecurity Fund to help families facing rising food challenges as SNAP benefits end November 1 + the fund supports local pantries with emergency food assistance.

United Way donated $20,000 to ten centers + community members are encouraged to contribute funds or non-perishable items.

Illinois released its first report card under the new scoring system from spring showing 52.4% proficiency in English and 38% in math compared to lower rates in 2024—also revealing wide gaps among racial and economic groups, as white fourth graders scored 55.4% in math while Hispanic and Black students scored 28.8% and 17.4% respectively. High school graduation rates hit a 15-year high of 89% as added funding helped boost student programs statewide.

Hundreds of Illinois educators and state workers gathered outside the statehouse in Springfield to ask for more funding for schools.

The Illinois Federation of Teachers urged lawmakers to tax the rich so classrooms get more money, and Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates said teachers have long struggled with low pay.

Illinois released its new 2025 school report card using a revised scoring system that shows 52.4% proficiency in English language arts and 38% in math on spring tests (reflecting improved results) while significant gaps remain between white, Black, and Hispanic students.

The report also shows a high school graduation rate of 89% and a decline in chronic absenteeism (25.4%), although challenges in student performance still persist.

The City of Springfield has announced that Halloween trick-or-treating will run from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. today and advises parents to accompany children, wear reflective costumes, use well-lit sidewalks, and check candy carefully — homes without lit porch lights will not be visited.

Governor JB Pritzker signed an executive order on Thursday directing $20 million to seven food banks that serve over 2,600 food pantries as SNAP benefits will stop on November 1—$10 million coming from the BRIDGE Fund and $10 million from IDHS.

Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs announced a $50M commitment today to fund zero-interest and low-interest loans for unpaid federal workers affected by the ongoing shutdown—loans offered through approved banks and credit unions will help cover essential expenses while terms vary by institution.

Eric Lyons and four senior Spartans previewed their season as Olympia will host Greenville on Saturday at 2 p.m. in the IHSA 3A state playoffs (continuing a playoff tradition).

Williamsville’s senior defense — known for hard work — will start the Class 3A playoffs against Hillsboro at Paul Jenkins Field on Saturday at 1 p.m. Coach Aaron Kunz said the team works quickly together and makes strong tackles, showing a tight bond that has led eight players to record six or more tackles for loss this season.

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.

Zoo Lights at Henson Robinson Zoo

5-9 p.m. — Henson Robinson Zoo — Entry Fee Applicable — Experience a magical stroll through thousands of lights and delightful holiday treats.