Hey hey Springfield! Your one-stop source for local news is here. Continue reading for all the updates. ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Titus 2:12 Restoration Run/Walk.
Today's riddle: Why did the fish blush ? 🤔 (Answer below!)
From our Partner
Today's Springfield Patch AM is brought to you in part by T-Mobile. After investing billions to light up their network from big cities to small towns, T-Mobile is America's Best Mobile Network in the US according to Ookla Speedtest®. Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data 1H 2026. We thank T-Mobile for their support in helping to keep communities like ours connected and for making today's Springfield Patch AM possible.
Find a T-Mobile store near Springfield.
• A new name for banking in Springfield (capitolcitynow.com) — Springfield banking customers will soon see Hickory Point Bank's West Wabash Avenue branch rebranded as First Financial Bank as part of a $111 million merger of their parent companies. Executives say staff and management should remain the same, while the combined institution aims to gain the scale needed for technology, cybersecurity, and regulatory demands affecting local customers.
• Funding Available For Transit Agencies To Expand Service (effinghamradio.com) — Springfield-based state agencies just opened $35 million in grants to help downstate transit systems offer reduced fares and coordinated transportation for public school students, including those in and around Springfield. Local transit agencies can apply by Oct. 15, with five-year grants supporting cheaper rides and better connections to schools, activities, and career centers.
• 2026 Illinois Local Awards Nominations Now Open, Celebrating Independent Causes and Businesses Across Illinois (springfieldherald.news) — Nominations are now open for the 2026 Illinois Local Awards, giving Springfield residents a chance to spotlight favorite independent businesses and community builders across the state. Winners will be honored Nov. 28 at the Illinois Local Holiday Market in the Orr Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, bringing shoppers and local entrepreneurs together right here in Springfield.
Show off your photography skills and the sights around town! Click here to submit your Photo of the Day to Patch AM!
Add your event to our calendar and newsletter!
Want to see your event featured? Click here!
Other local events
Want to say something great about someone in town? Click here to submit your Shout Out to Patch AM! It's free!
Have we missed something on our calendar? Add an event yourself! As always, before attending confirm event details to ensure accuracy.
Want to see your business here? Click here to connect with local customers.
What your neighbors are talking about on social media
Chatham
Pleasant Plains
Petersburg
Ok Springfield! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!
-- The Patch AM Team
P.S. The answer to today's riddle: It saw the ocean's bottom! (Thank you Gary M. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!
We use a combination of real people and machines to tell you what's happening around town. Learn more about Patch AM.
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Springfield Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.