Good morning, Springfield.

Agatucci’s was honored yesterday with a street dedication celebrating its 100-year milestone—community leaders and residents gathered at the ceremony.

The event recognized a century of local tradition and heritage.

The UIS Visual Arts Gallery is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a silent auction and benefit that will take place online on Nov.

10 and at the gallery from Dec. 1 through Dec. 4. The final bidding reception is set on Dec. 4 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.—all proceeds will support gallery programs and a move to a new space.

A handwritten letter from President Lincoln in 1861 recommending his Black friend William Johnson for a job is now on display at the presidential museum—donated by collector Peter Tuite.

It shows that even as he took office during a time of deep division, Lincoln worked to help his friend despite people treating him unfairly because of his skin color.

The University of Illinois Springfield will expand its Prairie Promise program to cover tuition and fees for eligible transfer students starting Fall, 2026—Illinois residents must apply by May 1 and meet FAFSA and MAP Grant requirements.

Chancellor Janet Gooch said the move will help remove financial barriers for students seeking higher education.

University of Illinois Springfield is expanding its Prairie Promise program to offer full tuition and fees to qualified transfer students.

Enrollment for the expanded program will begin Fall 2026—students must apply for admission and financial aid by May 1, 2026.

UIS senior Abigail Hemmer was named the 2025 Lincoln Academy Student Laureate Award recipient while keeping a 4.0 GPA and working at HSHS St. John’s Hospital—she plans to pursue a master’s degree to become a certified pathologists’ assistant after graduation.

The United States Marine Corps will mark its 250th birthday on Monday, November 10 at 1:00 p.m. in Springfield at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum with a ceremonial cake cutting—where the oldest Marine passes a piece to the youngest to symbolize a transfer of knowledge.

The local column 'Prep Rally: Why I Love High School Sports' shares a personal account of high school pregame events and explains the excitement behind game day traditions.

The author details how these rallies energize players and fans—offering a heartfelt look at local school athletics.

The UIS volleyball team ends its home schedule at TRAC by facing Upper Iowa today at 6:00 p.m.—and playing Truman State tomorrow at 3:00 p.m. with Senior Day for four players as they aim for a playoff spot.

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.

Elmo and Friends Say Hello

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Bank of Springfield Center — Family-friendly event — Sing, dance, and play alongside Elmo and friends in a fun celebration on Sesame Street.

Frostbite Festival

9 a.m. — AMF Springfield Lanes — Check event page for registration costs — Participate in the 62nd annual Frostbite Festival with 2 mile and 10 mile races.