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Reflections on local government

In 1987, a U.S. District Court determined that Springfield’s city government was not representative of its citizens. Judge Harold Baker ruled that the city’s at-large system of electing council members diluted the voting power of blacks, which directly violated the Voting Rights Act. This decision resulted in the institution of Springfield’s aldermanic system of governance […]

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The quirks of community theater

Exercise your creative side by auditioning for Historical Fiction, a production that showcases the quirks of community theater. Set backstage during a local production about the life of Abraham Lincoln, director Mitch is determined to keep the performance on track despite costume malfunctions and questions regarding attention to detail and method acting. This comedy is […]

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Heal from food struggles

If your new year’s resolution is to take charge of your nutrition, this “Winter Nutrition Retreat” hosted by AnnaNutrition might be the resource you need. Split into three sessions, the retreat is geared towards women healing from food struggles. The morning session runs from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. It is titled “Mindful Eating” and […]

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Illinois’ funniest mayor

Jeremy Nunes is a 15-year comedy veteran best known for his clever observations, unique storytelling style, and ability to improvise with audience members. Initially from Dawson, Jeremy formally launched his comedy career in Chicago when he became involved with The Second City and iO Comedy Theaters, perfecting what would come to be known as his […]

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A luminous stroll

You still have two chances to view the Henson Robinson Zoo decked out as a winter wonderland, as the zoo’s annual “Holiday Lights” event continues through Friday, Dec. 23, from 5-8 p.m. nightly. See hundreds of twinkling lights on display, visit with Santa Claus, create a holiday craft, finish up seasonal shopping at the zoo’s […]

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Telemann, Hindemith, Beethoven

Escape the chilly outdoors and enjoy a heartwarming concert by the Illinois Symphony Chamber Orchestra on Friday, Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m., at Springfield’s First Presbyterian Church. The concert will feature German composer George Philipp Telemann’s operatic take on the tale of Don Quixote, Hindemith’s “Concerto for Woodwinds and Harp,” and closes with Beethoven’s illustrious “Second […]

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Bluegrass band of brothers

Who says you can’t have it all? Enjoy a little bit of everything this Christmas by taking in a holiday concert highlighting a variety of genres by the DePue Brothers Band, also known as the “Musical Family of America” according to a 1989 presidential decree. The four DePue Brothers (Alex, Jason, Wallace and Zachary) are […]

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Remember, honor, teach

The public is encouraged to remember fallen U.S. veterans, honor those who serve, and teach children the value of freedom by participating in one of three Wreaths Across America ceremonies to be held in the Springfield area on Saturday, Dec. 17, from 11 a.m. through 12 p.m. Each program is part of the national Wreaths […]

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A grand holiday tradition

Join the Springfield Ballet Company for three performances of The Nutcracker on Saturday, Dec. 10, and Sunday, Dec. 11. The SBC’s 42nd annual rendition of the timeless ballet classic features a cast of 119 company dancers, talented local actors, youth dancers from the community and professional guest artists. The two-act ballet, which debuted on Dec. […]

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A small-town Christmas

This weekend, travel to the zany town of Tuna, Texas, for an unforgettable Christmas play about the antics surrounding the citizens of small-town Texas. The play, which originally premiered as part of a three-part series by Joe Sears and Jaston Williams in 1989, offers both affectionate commentary and sizzling satire on small-town Southern life and […]

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Historic holidays

Take a step back in time this holiday season and learn how American soldiers celebrated the holidays during four major conflicts (Revolutionary War, Civil War, World War I and World War II) at the Illinois State Military Museum’s “Christmas at the Front” event on Saturday, Dec. 10, from 4-8 p.m. The family-friendly celebration features holiday […]

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Christmas characters come to life

See scenes and characters from beloved holiday stories come to life during “A Storybook Christmas” in downtown Hillsboro. The two-day holiday celebration hosted by Imagine Hillsboro runs 5-9 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. through 2 p.m. on Saturday. Meet beloved characters such as Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, the conductor of the Polar Express, Rudolph, […]

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