Good morning, Springfield.

Hundreds of volunteers braved Saturday's snowstorm to place over 890 wreaths at Camp Butler National Cemetery in honor of fallen veterans + despite a cancelled formal ceremony, event coordinator Beth Kuntzman, a Gold Star Family recipient, honored her father who fought in Vietnam.

Local organizers are set to host a Poinsettia Show and other community events later this week in Springfield, offering families festive displays and interactive activities.

Illinois agriculture director Jerry Costello II warned that the new $12-billion Farmer Bridge Assistance Program announced today is only half the size of the previous aid package amid trade tariff losses.

He noted the program bases payments on reported acreage from the 2025 crop season.

Today, SIU Medicine has launched a national search for its next dean, provost and CEO in partnership with Isaacson, Miller (a national search firm) and a committee (led by Rikeesha Phelon and Nick Wortman) will review nominations and applications submitted via the firm's website; community updates will follow.

On Dec. 13, 2025, several Seventh Circuit judges (and family) volunteered at St. John's Breadline in Springfield and served lunch as they sought to build an annual tradition.

OSF Healthcare held its annual NICU memorial service for grieving families yesterday, offering a quiet space to honor lost infants (a long-standing community tradition).

Local health professionals advise residents to set boundaries and manage expectations during the busy season.

The Department of Public Health and community organizations in Springfield offer resources and relaxing activities, including quiet reading at the library, to reduce stress this December.

The State Journal-Register has revealed 13 nominees for its football player of the year + fans may cast votes in the poll every 12 hours until Friday at noon.

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.