Good morning, Springfield.

The Library Center will host the Hatch Auditorium grand opening weekend Jan.

16-18 with a teen silent disco Friday, a STEMusic Concert Saturday, and Bob Holden’s Community Jazz Ensemble Sunday, while a new sculpture (Vistalation) adds charm. The Winter Reading Challenge for adults runs through Feb. 28.

SRC Technologies Group in Springfield was awarded a $1 million grant from Missouri State University’s Jordan Valley Innovation Center to build a new low-volume, high-mix electronics assembly line.

Work will begin early this year and finish early next year to boost local production and cut reliance on external partners.

Financial experts advise residents to tackle post-holiday debt by listing income, debts and bills and choosing between the snowball or avalanche method.

They recommend negotiating rates and starting an emergency fund with $200 before paying down credit card balances.

Mercy Hospital will close its adult optometry clinic on Cherokee Street on April 3, and patients will need to visit local private doctors for routine eye exams while pediatric and eye surgery services continue (a shift to manage costs).

Mental health experts encourage pairing physical fitness with emotional wellness for New Year’s resolutions.

They advise staying connected + setting small goals, and local agencies offer suicide prevention training to help boost well-being.

Springfield Central football will return this season after Springfield Public Schools hired a new head coach following the cancellation of the 2024 season; a formal introduction is planned soon (name not yet released).

Former Kickapoo guard Shane Laurie, a Springfield distribution manager, recalled his 2005 championship run as Kickapoo prepares to face Principia in the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions from Thursday, Jan.

15 to Saturday at Great Southern Bank Arena.

Steven Ho Live Stand-Up Comedy

6:30 PM – 10:15 PM — Springfield Comedy Club — Reserved seating required — Join former ER Technician Steven Ho for a night of comedic chaos inspired by real-life healthcare stories.

2000 Point Warhammer 40K Tournament

9 AM – 6 PM — Meta Games Unlimited Inc — $10 Entry — Engage in a competitive 2000 point Warhammer 40K battle using the latest Chapter approved rules.

Couple Shuffle - Springfield

9 AM – 12 PM — Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park — Check website for entry fees — An annual running event featuring a 2-mile, 5k, and 10k race.