Good morning, Springfield.

Catholic Charities of Springfield Diocese received over 4,200 pounds of food delivered by Sysco today, including seven pallets of fruits, vegetables, milk and staple items such as rice, beans, pasta and soup.

The donation will help replace supplies used when SNAP benefits were temporarily suspended.

Christopher Hampsey, the assistant principal at Lanphier High School charged with battery after a September incident involving two students, resigned—he had been on paid leave, pleaded not guilty on October 20, and his next court appearance is set for January 12.

Two exhibits at the Sangamon County building show local history and art and are on display on the second floor until January 2026.

One exhibit details the region’s manufacturing roots while the other features local artwork—organized by the Springfield Art Association.

Doctors reported the first death from a meat allergy caused by a tick bite when a man in New Jersey died hours after eating a hamburger in 2024.

Governor Pritzker signed an alpha-gal awareness bill so the Illinois Department of Public Health will share facts and launch a campaign on red meat allergy risks—this measure requires that confirmed cases are reported to local health departments.

Springfield apartment listings reached a median of $1,034 in October (a 5% rise from last year's $985) according to Zumper data covering all apartment sizes.

One-bedroom rents held steady from last year though they dropped 3% from September, while two-bedroom listings fell 4% from September.

Normal U-High beat Prairie Ridge 25-20, 25-18 in the 3A State semifinals after rallying in the second set to tie at 17 and score seven of the final eight points.

They will play Nazareth Academy tomorrow at 5:30 p.m. in the title match.

UIS Softball signed six top high school seniors for its Class of 2026—Addie Stehlik, Avery Miller, Emily Webb, Haley Maretti, Malea Helmink, and Mylee Tracy—who are praised for both their strong play and good grades; head coach Shannon Guthrie said they are ready to boost the team.

On National Signing Day, the UIS Men's Basketball program signed two high school seniors — Luke Blackford from Springfield Calvary and Tre Watkins from Metea Valley — to join the Prairie Stars next season.

Head Coach Matt Brock said the new players will boost the team’s performance.

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.