Good morning, Springfield.

Central Illinois shoppers paid more for Halloween candy as prices rose 78% since 2020, with bags of 20 candies costing between $3.49 and $9.99 and larger bags reaching up to $22.99.

Many residents said the high prices made them reuse old clothes for costumes — a budget-friendly choice for the holiday.

Gov. Pritzker signed an order that gave $20 million to food banks to help cover lost SNAP benefits after a federal shutdown left many families struggling.

Food assistance advocates say the state aid is a drop in the bucket—many local grocers and households still fear a severe shortage of healthy food.

Governor Pritzker signed an order releasing $20 million from the state emergency fund to help food banks as federal SNAP benefits may be cut next month—food assistance advocates say this funding offers limited relief for nearly 1.9 million Illinois residents who rely on the program. They warn that rising costs and new eligibility rules could worsen challenges for families across the state.

The Illinois Senate passed a bill late Thursday to allow a new horse racing track and casino in Macon County—this privately funded project aims to bring a $220M investment with a potential of $27M in annual revenue and 300 full-time jobs.

House leaders adjourned early Friday without a vote, so the measure will stall until January unless lawmakers call a special session.

The Senate passed a bill late Thursday to allow a horse racing track and casino project in Macon County—an investment estimated at $220 million that could generate $27 million each year and create 300 full-time jobs.

However, House leaders adjourned early Friday without a vote, stalling the measure until lawmakers reconvene or hold a special session.

Starting November 3, parts of 11th Street and North Grand Avenue will close for six weeks for a water main relocation project that is the final phase of the Springfield Rail Improvements—motorists should follow detour signs and plan alternative routes.

The project will replace 2,000 feet of a 24-inch water main at an estimated cost of $4.8 million funded by the CWLP Water Fund.

Governor Pritzker announced on Tuesday that $30 million from the Regional Site Readiness Plan is aiding demolition at the former Pillsbury plant—paving the way for a five-year renewal plan.

State officials said the funds may help revive thousands of neglected sites across Illinois.

More than 400 educators and state workers gathered at the Capitol on Wednesday to urge Governor JB Pritzker and lawmakers to tax the rich to fully fund public schools—IFT leaders said they would continue meetings with legislators during the fall veto session to secure stable education funding.

Springfield High won the Class 3A regional volleyball title after beating Jacksonville 25-16, 19-25, 25-22 on Oct.

30 at the JHS Bowl—sophomore Lucy Ambrose made the key plays to secure the win. Coach Bill Sturm said the team will rest on Halloween—then face No. 1 Normal U-High in the Southeast Sectional semifinals on Tuesday.

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.