Good morning, Springfield.

The Riverfront Museum held the Fallen Tree of Honor ceremony yesterday to honor local heroes—organizers said the event recognized brave acts that strengthen our community.

On Saturday, special-needs families attended District 186's annual Empower All Abilities conference — a 17-year event — to learn about services and programs.

Executive director Ward Lamon and advocate Shelley Moore explained that the event — which supports inclusive education — helped open community doors.

Yesterday, Rochester beat Sacred Heart Griffin 41—35 in overtime in the 4A quarterfinal when Khornell Gregory intercepted a pass and Jorey Myren scored the game winner.

The Rockets will host the semifinals against Breese Central next Saturday at 4 p.m. — the game is set at Rocket Booster Stadium.

The Maroa Forsyth Trojans advanced to their fourth straight 2A semifinal after beating Flora 48-12 on Saturday.

They will travel to Arthur-Lovington-Atwood-Hammond next Saturday at 2 p.m. — the team expects to build on this strong win.

The UIS Athletics Sideline Store is open online year-round—offering Prairie Stars fans official gear and customizable apparel from top brands.

Customers can shop from home and have orders delivered directly to their door.

Saturday's quarterfinal contests in the 2025 IHSA high school football playoffs saw winners from all eight classes advance towards semifinals at Illinois State University — championship games will follow after Thanksgiving at Hancock Stadium.

Rochester head coach Derek Leonard and seniors Tanner Beal and Jorey Myren discussed their team’s 41-35 overtime win over Sacred Heart Griffin in the 4A quarterfinals—earning Game of the Week honors—and planning for upcoming contests.

Rochester beat Sacred Heart-Griffin 41-35 in overtime in a Class 4A quarterfinal game at Rocket Booster Stadium on Saturday, with Jorey Myren scoring a key 5-yard touchdown run.

The Rockets will host Breese Central in the semifinals later this week.

Normal U-High defeated Nazareth Academy on Saturday evening to win the 3A volleyball state title—seniors Laney Snow, Madison Funk and Morgan Petelin along with Head Coach Ratasha Thompson discussed the victory.

Local playoff teams are set to compete in high school football quarterfinal and 8-Man semifinal games on Saturday—Sacred Heart-Griffin plays Rochester at 4 p.m., Tolono Unity meets Williamsville at 2 p.m., and Polo faces Kincaid South Fork at 4 p.m.—with top performers to be updated as the games progress.

The Illinois Springfield men's basketball team opened its season on Friday night with an 88-56 win over Roosevelt at De Simone Arena in Kenosha, Wis.

Coach Matt Brock praised the team's defense and bench effort—Jordan Rice led the scoring with 21 points as the Prairie Stars turned a close start into a commanding victory.

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.