Good morning, Springfield.

Hy-Vee announced it will offer $3 hot meals at all stores with hot food service until November 14—kids 12 and under receive their meals for free.

Customers may choose to dine in or take food to go as the program continues through the week.

Springfield is launching its 2025 Holiday Planter Contest that invites residents, businesses, nonprofits and community groups to register online and receive a planter in order of registration for decorating with holiday themes from Nov.

15 through Dec. 5. Decorations must meet safety rules and judges will award first, second and third prizes from Dec. 6 to Dec. 12—contest rules are posted online.

Yesterday, the Ansar Shrine Circus performed at the BOS Center while other shows are set for Saturday and Sunday, and the Girls on the Run 5K is taking place today at Lincolnland Community College with kid friendly activities starting at 9 a.m. and the race at 10 a.m.; the Hobnob Holiday Market ran Friday and is open today at the State Fairgrounds—the Local Author Showcase is at Kidzeum with readings and signings, and the Abe for All Veterans Day will offer free admission Monday at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum received a letter written by Lincoln on March 16, 1861 that asks Navy Secretary Gideon Welles to find work for a Black man who worked for his family in Springfield and Washington—donated by a private collector the letter is now on display in the museum’s Treasures Gallery.

The Ansar Shrine Circus is celebrating 78 years with a show at Bank of Springfield Center where families enjoy funnel cakes and rides.

Rusty Petty, Jason Cutright, and Tony Moore told WTAX Morning News the event is meant to bring smiles to kids + honor a cherished tradition.

The Gettysburg Address is on view at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum until Dec.

1 — the new smart‑glass display case protects Lincoln’s fragile handwriting — and it will be replaced by a signed copy of the Emancipation Proclamation after that date.

University of Illinois Springfield is expanding its Prairie Promise program to include qualifying transfer students along with first-year undergrads to cover tuition and fees — funding is limited and awarded on a first-come basis.

UIS senior Abigail Hemmer from Springfield has received the Lincoln Academy of Illinois 2025 Student Laureate Award for academic excellence.

She maintains a 4.0 GPA and works part time at HSHS St. John’s Hospital — gaining lab experience while leading student clubs and planning to pursue a master’s degree.

Illinois health officials said 11 people got sick after drinking raw milk from a common source — the producer is notifying customers and working with investigators.

Officials urge anyone with symptoms to see a doctor.

A local group is working to reduce the stigma of mental health for black men by planning outreach events and support initiatives (it aims to raise awareness and improve access to resources).

The second round of IHSA high school football playoffs started on November 7 and continue today with matchups across Class 6A, 4A, 3A, 2A, 1A, and 8-Man—scores and top performers are updated online throughout the weekend.

Today the Illinois Springfield men’s cross country team heads to Kenosha, Wisconsin for the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional Championship at 11:15 a.m. at the Wayne E.

Dannehl National Cross Country Course, where the Prairie Stars will run a longer 10K (10-kilometer) course and aim to earn one of the top three team bids (a chance to advance to nationals).

The Illinois Springfield women's cross country team heads to Kenosha today at 10:00 a.m. to race in the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional Championship at the Wayne E.

Dannehl National Cross Country Course—automatic bids and additional qualifiers will be decided based on team and individual results.

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.