Morning Springfield! We've got the scoop on the latest happenings in town. Read on to get looped in. ☕️️
In today's newsletter:
Also on today's calendar: Robby Robinson Set to Rock Out LIVE @ The Litchfield Museum & Route 66 Welcome Center 10-05-2026 and 9 more events.
Today's riddle: Why did the girl pig break up with the boy pig? 🤔 (Answer below!)
From our Partner
Today's Springfield Patch AM is brought to you in part by T-Mobile - America's Best Mobile Network, 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.
1. New owner has big plans for historic Springfield building (bnd.com) — A Florida-based investor with Springfield roots is moving to buy and restore the fire-damaged Virgil Hickox Building downtown, aiming to reopen the Norb Andy's space and possibly add apartments, offices, or a bed-and-breakfast. He hopes to open the first-floor tavern by year's end, bringing new life and tourism potential just blocks from key Lincoln sites.
2. Springfield's APL hosts Blessing of the Animals (nprillinois.org) — Springfield pet owners can bring their animals to the Animal Protective League's Blessing of the Animals ceremony this Sunday, Oct. 4, at 3 p.m. at the Taintor Road shelter. All leashed or crated pets are welcome, and those who can't attend in person can watch a livestream on APL's Facebook page while also learning how to support the shelter's adoption and spay/neuter programs.
3. Dutch Bros coming to Springfield (springfieldbusinessjournal.com) — A new Dutch Bros coffee shop is planned for 2343 N. Dirksen Parkway in Springfield, replacing the former Hickory River Smokehouse with a drive-through and walk-up-only design by early spring 2027. The project reflects rapid coffee-chain growth along North Dirksen, while Hickory River searches for a new Springfield location and auctions off its kitchen equipment this month.
4. Prevention Announce Debut Album 'And Nothing's Mine' (stereogum.com) — Springfield straight-edge hardcore band Prevention is releasing its debut full-length album, "And Nothing's Mine," on October 30 through Triple B/Delayed Gratification. After several EPs and splits, the group is showcasing its fast, old-school style with new tracks like the furious 73-second single "Tell Yourself," giving local heavy-music fans something fresh to anticipate this month.
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
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: "Why did the girl pig break up with the boy pig?" — Because he was such a boar! (Thank you Theresa H. 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.