Good morning, Springfield.

The Animal Protective League is holding its annual Giving Tree donation drive from November 28 until December 31 to support ill, injured and abandoned animals in Springfield.

Over 40 local businesses are hosting a special APL Giving Tree and items may be dropped off at the shelter—1001 Taintor Road.

A winter storm Saturday in Illinois caused more than 400 crashes, with at least 66 people injured and over 300 motorists needing roadside assistance — heavy snowfall and strong winds pushed vehicles into ditches and medians.

State Senator Doris Turner launched her annual holiday card drive to bring holiday cheer to local seniors in long-term care facilities.

Residents—including children—can deliver or mail handmade or store-bought cards to her Capitol office at 401 S. Spring St. or her Decatur office at 1210 S. Jasper St. by Dec. 17.

Pam Hulten of the Springfield Memorial Foundation said they are accepting donations and volunteer help to improve hospital facilities and patient care—after last year raising over $3 million and awarding $1.6 million in grants.

The foundation will use contributions to upgrade equipment and create a better hospital experience ahead of Giving Tuesday.

The UIS men's basketball team defeated Missouri-St. Louis 86-76 on Saturday as Alex Stell and Isaiah Davis each scored 19 points and Stell recorded a 15-rebound double-double, helping head coach Matt Brock secure his first win at UMSL.

The team improved to 4-2 overall + 1-0 in GLVC play.

The Illinois Springfield women’s basketball team lost to Missouri-St. Louis 69+46 in the GLVC opener as they struggled with turnovers and found limited scoring in key quarters.

UIS stands at 2-4+UMSL is 4-1, and the team will begin a three-game homestand tonight against William Jewell followed by matchups with McKendree and Maryville.

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.

Dual Piano Christmas

7 p.m. — Hoogland Center For The Arts — Ticketed event — Experience an evening of holiday favorites and comedic improvisation on dual pianos.

Town Snowman Paint Night With Ashley Blake

1-3 p.m. — Harvest Market — Supplies included — Unleash your creativity while painting a winter wonderland masterpiece inspired by Snowman Town.

New Year’s Eve Celebration with Lick Creek

7-8:30 p.m. — Boondocks — Ticket required — Celebrate New Year’s Eve with live country rock music from Lick Creek in Springfield.