Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield will host the NHPA World Championships from July 17-29 in 2028 at the new air-dome facility at SCHEELS Sports Park at Legacy Pointe, marking nearly 20 years since the event was last held.

More than 1,000+ athletes will compete and the championships are expected to add $2.8 million in economic impact to the local area.

Anastasia is a 2-year-old white and buff shorthair who arrived at the Animal Protective League (APL) feeling nervous but is now learning that the world is friendlier with patient care.

She remains shy and appreciates gentle treatment, so people are invited to visit her at 1001 Taintor Road from noon to 5 p.m.

Former District 186 superintendent Diane Rutledge was named First Citizen on Wednesday at Erin’s Pavilion for her lifetime of community service.

She was honored for her work in education—health care, youth development and civic engagement that has improved Springfield.

Local tree farms are getting ready for the holiday season as visitors plan to buy cut-your-own and pre-cut trees in Sangamon County.

Bomke’s Patch in Springfield and Krone Christmas Tree Farm near Riverton have spent years growing trees that support local jobs and add environmental benefits.

At an IBHE meeting on Wednesday at Elgin Community College, union members, students, and faculty urged state officials to tell Gov. Pritzker to release more than $29 million in approved college funding, noting that underfunding has forced tuition hikes and staff cuts.

The governor’s office said it will hold the funds until federal education policy stabilizes — a move that critics say worsens challenges at public universities.

County officials held a public signing event for a structural steel beam on display at the County Building as part of a new hub that will serve Springfield and Sangamon County; U.S. Senator Durbin was the first to sign the beam during Thursday morning's event.

The hub—that will consolidate Amtrak, Greyhound and local transit services and include historical exhibits on the 1908 Springfield Race Riot—will begin installing its superstructure in two to three months.

The University of Illinois Springfield will host the Send Silence Packing exhibit at the Student Union Student Leadership Center on Nov 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.—the display uses donated backpacks with personal stories to honor those lost to suicide and offer hope to visitors.

Local organizers previewed a weekend prep rally—community members will soon learn details about the event’s schedule and activities as teams get ready for competitions.

The rally will boost school spirit and support before upcoming games.

Thirteen IHSA all-state football players have been named from Springfield, and Sacred Heart-Griffin's Drew Ward — a versatile senior with 37 catches for 624 yards and six touchdowns — is among those selected.

The honors recognize top high school athletes in the area, with players from several schools earning the nod.

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.

Holiday Cheer Paint Night with Ashley Blake

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Library - Pizza and Sports Bar — Free entry — Unleash your inner artist and get festive with a fun paint night experience.