Good morning, Springfield.

A Springfield gun shop owner noted an increase in first-time buyers seeking firearms and training for self-protection.

Jason Radney of Cherokee Firearms told reporters that many customers (including those new to guns) are asking for guidance on selecting and safely storing their purchases.

Four States Bank opened a new full-service branch at 2045 S.

Glenstone and will host a ribbon-cutting event at 11 a.m. Feb. 24 & invite the community to tour the facility and meet its team.

The Springfield-Greene County African-American Heritage Trail Committee will dedicate the 11th marker at Kentwood Hall downtown on Feb.

26 at 4 p.m. The ceremony starts inside the hotel’s Crystal Room before attendees walk along St. Louis Street to the marker.

MSHSAA celebrates 100 years today as it faces challenges with lawmakers while planning its future changes.

KY3's Chris Neyenhouse interviewed Dr. Jennifer Rukstad about the organization's next steps in the state.

Missouri lawmakers are debating proposals to assign public school grades from A to F as Gov. Mike Kehoe seeks clearer accountability.

The Senate plan uses percentage scores while the House proposal drops penalties for low testing rates, and both include incentive funding for high-performing schools with changes expected soon.

Local farmers and homeowners are taking steps to reduce fire risks amid dry weather by cleaning yards and trimming bushes, while fire officials advise moving wood piles 10 feet from homes and avoiding outdoor burning (these measures help lower wildfire emergencies).

MoDOT crews will repair potholes on state-maintained roads this spring to keep roadways safe as weather warms.

Motorists can report issues via the hotline to help crews work quickly in the Springfield area.

Missouri joined a federal initiative to strengthen child welfare and support foster families caring for high need children, with Governor Mike Kehoe announcing the state's role as the second to participate.

The program, A Home for Every Child, aims to boost stable placements and reduce moves for children in foster care.

The Springfield Fire Department warned residents about lithium-ion battery dangers after crews responded to a challenging battery fire Thursday in Springfield (using new equipment funded by a community grant) and advised keeping extinguishers current and calling 911 if batteries continue to burn.

Animal rescue groups in Springfield promote Spay and Neuter Awareness Month this February by urging pet owners to have cats and dogs spayed or neutered within their first five months of life (fix by 5) to control the local pet population.

Steve Boyce wraps up his final high school swimming season after 26 years as he coaches Glendale, Republic, and Ozark high schools at the state meet this weekend & his career includes nine team state champions, 27 individual state champions, and 245 all-state athletes.

Stockton boys basketball senior Jax Baxter was honored on senior night at his gym as his achievements were celebrated with a display of his top moments (including a photo where he dribbled while riding a bike) over four years on the varsity team.

Kristin Key Live Performance

8:45 PM — Springfield Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of laughs with musical comedian Kristin Key, star of NBC's 'Bring the Funny'.

Running From Yeti

7:45 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. — Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park — Entry fee varies — Join a winter-themed race with fun and community spirit in Springfield, MO.

Open Mic Night

7-10 p.m. — Springfield Comedy Club — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughs with both seasoned and first-time comedians showcasing their talent.

Dev Night: Linux Installation Workshop

6-8 p.m. — efactory — Free entry — Learn to install Linux on your Windows 10 computer and enjoy free pizza.

GRUPO LOS REHENES Live Concert

8 p.m. — OXO Bar and Grill — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling live music event filled with regional rhythms and vibrant energy.

Brad Williams: The Tall Tales Tour

7-11 p.m. — Juanita K. Hammons Hall — Tickets from $69 — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comedian Brad Williams.

Shamrock Shuffle

8 AM – 12 PM — Park Central Square — Registration fees apply — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with the annual sprint through Downtown Springfield.

Missouri USA Wrestling - Sunday

7 a.m. – 8 p.m. — Ozark Empire Fairgrounds — $39 Adult, $28 Child — Experience an action-packed day of wrestling with weekend tickets available.