Good morning, Springfield.

Toys for Tots collected donations from Northwoods Mall shoppers on Dec.

5 + the drive helped support local families as organizers work to bring holiday cheer to children.

Randy Hultgren, CEO of the Illinois Bankers Association, will retire after the spring legislative session in 2026.

Board chair T.J. Burge said Hultgren (a former state legislator and US House member) led the association through success and will help with the transition to new leadership as it continues advocacy in Springfield, Chicago, and Washington, D.C.

State education officials began drafting a statewide numeracy plan to boost math scores after an April needs assessment and November listening sessions.

A second draft will be shown in February + a final version is expected in June.

Students at Lincoln Magnet School talked via amateur radio with an astronaut on the International Space Station Friday morning after 14 attempts to connect — a live lesson in science and communication that highlighted their determination.

A social media post wrongly reported that nine firefighters were injured — an AI error combined separate emergencies.

Assistant Fire Chief Julie Plunk clarified no firefighter was hurt and urged residents to rely on verified updates.

After a year of public hearings and expert input, the Massey Commission released its final report detailing calls to improve safety, mental health services, and transparency in the community.

The report will be presented to the Sangamon County Board on Tuesday, Dec. 9 as local leaders plan a county-wide Mental Health Board (a blueprint for change).

Springfield Airport Authority announced that SPI won the American Airlines 2nd Quarter 2025 Customer Cup Award, marking its first win.

The cup recognizes the airport team for outstanding performance, safety and customer service.

After missing last season, Jordan Rice returns by averaging 21.0 points in six games and leading UIS to a 4-2 record; he earned November Jimmy John's Athlete of the Month honors in Springfield & will be recognized at the year-end banquet.

SCHEELS Sports Park at Legacy Pointe will hold a soft opening Friday, Dec.

12 for the Midwest Open Indoor Archery Tournament with free admission and over 50 local vendors. Doors open at 10 a.m. on Friday and the event runs through the weekend — a family-friendly offering.

Illinois Springfield men's basketball won 63-58 over McKendree at TRAC on Thursday night with a strong defensive effort that included 13 three-pointers, and the team will face Maryville at 3:00 p.m. Saturday as fans are encouraged to wear blue.

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.