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Donor Support Makes Early Detection Possible through Springfield Memorial Hospital’s Mammogram Mondays Program
Donor support to the Springfield Memorial Hospital Foundation enabled Springfield Memorial Hospital (SMH) to provide lifesaving breast cancer screenings for eligible women throughout the area during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. The hospital conducted a total of 1,038 mammograms with 31 free mammograms provided through the Mammogram Mondays program – fully funded by the Springfield Memorial Foundation thanks to generous donor support. These screenings provided access to essential care for
CHATHAM RD LANES TO CLOSE FOR WATER MAIN REPAIRS
North-bound lanes Chatham Road between Cherry Road and Laurel will be reduced for repairs to a 10-inch water main by the CWLP Water Department. Lanes will remain closed until road surface repairs are complete. Motorists are advised to take alternate routes to avoid delays and to drive slowly and cautiously around the work zone.
UIS researcher publishes two studies helping cities address heat, water and environmental equity
Kyle Blount, an assistant professor of ecohydrology in the Environmental Studies Program at the University of Illinois Springfield, has co-authored two collaborative research articles that offer new guidance for cities and researchers working to manage extreme heat, water challenges and the growing demands of urbanization.In May, Blount and colleagues published a study in Remote Sensing that identifies a simple and low-cost way to predict how hot neighborhoods feel at street level. The research shows that
Springfield Airport Authority Wins American Airlines 2nd Quarter 2025 Customer Cup Award
The Springfield Airport Authority is proud to announce that Springfield’s Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI) has been named the winner of the American Airlines 2nd Quarter 2025 Customer Cup Award, marking the first time the SPI team has earned this prestigious honor.The Customer Cup is an internal award program that recognizes airport teams across the American Airlines network for outstanding operational performance, exceptional safety, and superior customer service. The Springfield Airport team competes
UnitedHealthcare's Individual Marketplace Plan In-Network with Springfield Clinic for 2026
We are pleased to announce that UnitedHealthcare’s Affordable Care Act (ACA) individual marketplace plan is in-network with Springfield Clinic for 2026. Open enrollment for coverage starting Jan. 1, 2026, runs from Nov. 1 to Dec. 15, 2025. The deadline for our patients to make changes to their marketplace plan selection is approaching (learn more at getcovered.illinois.gov). By choosing UnitedHealthcare’s individual insurance plan for 2026, patients will have access to all Springfield Clinic providers at
CWLP CHIEF UTILITY ENGINEER ANNOUNCES PLANS TO RETIRE AFTER 31 YEARS OF SERVICE
City Water Light & Power (CWLP) Chief Utility Engineer Doug Brown announced today that he will retire March 31st after 31 years of service to the City of Springfield. Brown, who has nearly 11 years at the helm of the utility, will join the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency (IMEA) as President and CEO in April.Brown has led the City-owned utility through numerous projects and strategic initiatives over the years, including the addition of Dallman 4, Integrated Resource Planning and overseeing a number of
Yoho Named November Colleague of the Month for Springfield Memorial Hospital
Makayla Yoho, RN, with outpatient infusion at Springfield Memorial Hospital, is the nonprofit hospital’s Colleague of the Month for November. A charge resource nurse, Yoho earns the trust of patients with her attention to detail and dedication to providing the highest standard of patient care. Her nominator described how Yoho anticipates needs, supports her colleagues without hesitation and maintains a calm, solutions-focused approach no matter the circumstances. “Makayla’s ability to manage complex
Fraud Watch: Scammers Are Impersonating Your Bank
Bank of Springfield (BOS) urges the community to slow down and think about who could be on the other end of an unexpected email, phone call, or text message.Scammers know it’s a busy time of year and have increased their fraud tactics to take advantage of consumers and businesses. Most recently, scammers are impersonating banks and their fraud departments requesting online banking credentials (verification codes, passwords, account number) and personal information (Social Security number, passwords,
Trout Named November Colleague of the Month for System Resources at Memorial Health
Kimberly Trout, a clinical informatics consultant with Information Services, is the Memorial Health System Resources Colleague of the Month for November. According to her nominator, Trout, who previously worked as a nurse, has an ability to design systems that allow clinicians to provide essential care, and she can also envision how systems translate to patient recovery. She is a go-to person for nursing care plans, and she develops collaborations across affiliates with her leadership on the Nursing
Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
United Way of Central Illinois - Spread Holiday Cheer to Local Seniors! United Way of Central Illinois is teaming up with local senior communities and agencies to bring some joy to our community's seniors. Over 5,000 cards were delivered last year!Details: -Grab some cards from the store or get creative and make your own cards and write notes to local seniors! - Drop off your holiday cards at the United Way of Central Illinois office (1999 Wabash, Suite 107, Springfield) by 12:00pm on December 10th,
Dempsey Named November Memorial Health Ambulatory Colleague of the Month
Denise Dempsey, LPN, with Memorial Care on South Sixth, is the Memorial Health Ambulatory Group Colleague of the Month for November. Exceptional patient care is a hallmark of Dempsey’s work, according to her nominator. She always seeks the correct answer and shares that information with colleagues. She treats patients with kindness, often walking them out to make sure they are safe. She also speaks with patients who are upset and is usually able to calm them. “When I think about what a nurse should be, I
City of Springfield Welcomes Suraksha Bhandari as New Professional Planner
The City of Springfield is proud to announce Suraksha Bhandari as the new Professional Planner for the Office of Planning and Economic Development, effective December 1, 2025. This decision highlights the important role planning plays in the City’s growth and development. As the City works to guide new initiatives and support economic progress, Suraksha’s experience will be critical in providing the expertise and direction needed to move projects forward and help the community thrive. Suraksha brings a
Ambassador Committee Member Spotlight Ethan Posey
Ethan J. PoseyDirector of Community Relations City of Springfield (217) 789-2270ethan.posey@springfield.il.us What products and services does your business offer? The Office of Community Relations addresses landlord/tenant issues within the city of Springfield, coordinates efforts of the Homeless Outreach Team, is in charge of the BUILD Springfield Program, created the My First Home Initiative, and collaborates with non-profit organizations and small businesses to give city support to local events and
$55 Million Extraordinary Dividend Distributed to CEFCU Members
A $55 million Extraordinary Dividend was approved by CEFCU’s Board of Directors and distributed to the Credit Union’s member/owners, matching last year’s record as the largest Extraordinary Dividend in CEFCU’s history. The amount returned to members in good standing is divided between savers and borrowers, with a portion also being returned to Debit Card users. On December 2, funds were deposited to members’ Savings accounts. Over the last 25 years, CEFCU has returned nearly $600 million dollars in
LLCC Choir and Band to perform fall concerts
The Lincoln Land Community College Choir and Band invite the public to upcoming free concerts on Friday, Dec. 5 and Monday, Dec. 8 in A. Lincoln Commons on the main LLCC campus, 5250 Shepherd Rd, Springfield. The LLCC Choir, directed by Dr. See Tsai Chan, adjunct instructor of music, will present “Dream and Drama” on Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. Selections will feature soloists and include songs from musicals, movies and operas like “Wicked,” “The Greatest Showman,” “The Magic Flute,” “Sister Act 2,” “Sleeping
Helping Those Dealing with Loss on the Holidays
The festivities of the holidays can be an especially difficult time for those feeling loss and grief. It can bring back bittersweet memories, amplify loneliness, and stand in stark contrast to their internal feelings. To help individuals come together to share in their grief, obtain helpful resources, and honor their loved ones, the Butler Family of Organizations is hosting a holiday open house on Tuesday, December 2, 4:00 – 6:30 p.m. as a gift to the community. The program is open to the public and
UIS Chancellor’s Thinkers Series to feature Springfield community leader Mylas Copeland
WHAT: University of Illinois Springfield Chancellor Janet L. Gooch will host a conversation with Mylas Copeland as part of her Chancellor’s Thinkers Series event titled “A Call to Think: We’re All in This Together.” WHEN: 5 p.m. Dec. 3 WHERE: UIS Student Union Ballroom, 2251 Richard Wright Drive (visitor parking available in Lot J)DETAILS: The discussion will center on servant and authentic leadership, exploring what motivates Copeland to give back so consistently and generously. A
Downtown Springfield, Inc. Announces Strategic Transformation: Embracing Arts, Culture, and Entertainment to Revitalize the Heart of Springfield
Downtown Springfield, Inc. (DSI), the leading nonprofit dedicated to the vitality of Springfield’s urban core, is proud to announce a new chapter for the organization. Transitioning from a membership-based 501(c)(6) to a community-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofit, DSI is unveiling a transformative strategy centered on arts, culture, and entertainment as the cornerstone of downtown revitalization. The shift in non-profit status empowers the organization to serve the entire downtown, pursue grants and new
Osprey bird population grows in Illinois with help from UIS professor
University of Illinois Springfield Associate Professor Tih-Fen Ting, director of the School of Integrated Sciences, Sustainability and Public Health, has played a key role in helping increase the osprey bird population in Illinois. Since Ting and others began their work in 2013, the state’s osprey bird population has grown from 16 known breeding pairs to 90 pairs in 2023.Ospreys, large fish-eating birds known for their distinctive nests and hunting skills, were once uncommon in Illinois. Before 2010,
Aspen Institute names LLCC a Top 200 U.S. Community College
The Aspen Institute has named Lincoln Land Community College as one of the 200 institutions from across the United States eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s premier recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges. The top 200 colleges were selected from nearly 1,000 institutions based on student outcomes data, including retention, completion, transfer and bachelor’s attainment rates. Started in 2010, this is the ninth
SPRINGFIELD POLICE DEPARTMENT PROMOTIONS
Mayor Misty Buscher and Chief Joseph Behl proudly announced the promotion of two Springfield Police Department officers during a ceremony held Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at the Springfield City Council Chambers. Officers Bob Kuhn and Brittany Etchill were promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Sergeant Bob Kuhn has served the Springfield Police Department for 19 years, dedicating his career to the Patrol Division. His commitment to public safety and consistent professionalism have earned him the respect of his
HSHS Medical Group Welcomes Dr. Ebuka Edwin Oduche to New Psychiatry Clinic in Springfield
HSHS Medical Group is pleased to welcome Dr. Ebuka Edwin Oduche, a board-certified psychiatrist, to HSHS Medical Group Psychiatry-Springfield located at 2901 Old Jacksonville Road, Suite D, Springfield. Dr. Oduche brings extensive experience and a commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care. He completed dual residency training in internal medicine and psychiatry at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, where he served as chief resident. Dr. Oduche provides comprehensive psychiatric services,
APPLICATIONS OPEN DECEMBER 1 FOR CWLP BILL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
City Water, Light and Power customers who need help paying their bill could qualify for assistance from the utility’s Project RELIEF program. The first step in applying for assistance from Project RELIEF is to have gone through Sangamon County’s LIHEAP application process. Then to qualify for CWLP Project RELIEF, call the appointment line at 217-789-2414 on or after Monday, December 1. Customers meeting the minimum eligibility requirements will be scheduled for a meeting with Fifth Street Renaissance, the
Ambassador Committee Member Spotlight Chris Walcher
Chris WalcherBranch PresidentAmerican Bank of Freedom (217) 498-7111cwalcher@myamericanbank.netWhat products and services does your business offer? American Bank offers a full suite of items to meet our consumer and business clients needs. A sampling of our products is listed below: Checking - Free and Interest Bearing Accounts Money Markets Savings Certificate of Deposits Safe Deposit Box Small and Large Commercial Loans Agriculture Financing What is one thing you'd like for people to know
Springfield Park District's Nelson Center to Host Ribbon Cutting Celebration for Newly Renovated Nelson Center Ice Rink
Springfield, IL – The Springfield Park District is pleased to announce the official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the newly renovated Nelson Center Ice Rink, taking place on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Nelson Center Ice Rink, located within Lincoln Park.The renovation project enhances the experience for skaters, athletes, families, and visitors by improving facility amenities, increasing comfort, and elevating overall guest experience. These updates support the District’s mission to enrich
Holiday Open House — Butler Family of Organizations
Helping Those Dealing with Loss on the Holidays The festivities of the holidays can be an especially difficult time for those feeling loss and grief. It can bring back bittersweet memories, amplify loneliness, and stand in stark contrast to their internal feelings. To help individuals come together to share in their grief, obtain helpful resources, and honor their loved ones, the Butler Family of Organizations is hosting a holiday open house on Tuesday, December 2, 4:00 – 6:30 p.m. as a gift to the
Springfield Announces Warming Center Locations 2025-2026
For anyone who needs relief from the cold and inclement weather, the following locations have been designated as warming centers in Springfield. These locations will serve as warming stations during their regular business hours. Municipal Center East 800 E. Monroe Springfield, IL 62701 Mon.-Fri. 8:00a.m.-5:00p.m. Municipal Center West 300 S. Seventh Street Springfield, IL 62701 Mon.-Fri.
Kisekini joins Hanson’s headquarters as structural designer
Joel Kisekini, structural designer, recently joined Hanson Professional Services Inc.’s Springfield headquarters. He will perform complex engineering calculations and use structural design software for analysis and design. Kisekini previously provided bridge engineering services for a multidisciplined engineering firm in Springfield. He received an associate degree from John A. Logan College and bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Hanson is
NORTH MACARTHUR TO REDUCE FOR WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT PROJECT
Beginning on Monday, November 17th, the northbound lanes on N. MacArthur Boulevard, between W. Reynolds Street and Calhoun Avenue, will be reduced for a water main replacement project by the CWLP Water Department. This work is expected to last several weeks, and traffic lanes will remain closed until road surface repairs are complete. Work will be rescheduled in the event of inclement weather. Motorists are advised to take alternate routes to avoid delays and to drive slowly and cautiously around the
Walnut Street Closure Between Edwards St and Williams Blvd
Walnut Street is scheduled to be closed between Edwards St and Williams Blvd on Tuesday, November 18th and continuing through Wednesday November 19th. In addition to the Walnut Street closure, the two center lanes of Lawrence will be closed at the intersection with Walnut Street. This closure is for sewer main repairs. The dates and duration are weather dependent and may be extended if delays are encountered. Detour signs will be posted. Motorists are advised to use alternate routes and proceed
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Sertoma Club Presented 2025 Service to Mankind Award
Springfield, Illinois, 11/17/25, The Sertoma Club of Springfield presented its 2025 Service to Mankind Award on November 17th at noon during an awards ceremony held at MCL Restaurant. The recipient Don Ecklund, of Springfield, was instrumental in the development of Sangamon County's Habitat for Humanity in 1989. Since then, Mr. Ecklund has coordinated 21 different "Habitat Builds" of new houses for low-income families seeking homes in the county. Currently, Mr. Ecklund is a "Family Advocate" for a new
Smart Execution: How Small Teams Accelerate Growth Through Better Planning
The Spark Behind Small Business Innovation Every small business begins with an idea — but not every idea turns into innovation.What separates thriving local enterprises from those that stall isn’t just creativity; it’s how well they turn ideas into action. Effective planning, collaborative energy, and streamlined execution turn good concepts into real-world growth.TL;DR Innovation isn’t luck — it’s logistics.Small businesses can accelerate progress by: Building structured yet flexible plans Creating
Damon Priddy State Farm recognized as both Best Agency & Best Agent in Springfield!
SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS - November 2024 The Damon Priddy State Farm Team, a leader in providing quality insurance & financial service solutions, is proud to announce it's recent awards for Best Insurance Agency and Best Insurance Agent in Springfield by the Community Choice Awards. These prestigious honors reflect the agency's dedication to clients, community engagement and exceptional service. This is the third consecutive year that the agency has taken home both awards! The awards were presented at the
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Damon Priddy State Farm Team Rebrands ''What is Service''
This week the agency has taken part in multiple events and recognized their service team for National Customer Service Week! Nearly four years into the launch of the Damon Priddy State Farm Agency, our team is "rebranding" the customer service team and the way we "do service". "I came from a background in hospitality, managing multiple hotels and major brands along the way. Taking care of people is engrained in who I am. That hospitality training and care for detail doesn't go away. Launching the agency in
