Daily
Springfield
Friday, February 20th, 2026
Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 20th of February.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Centerstone named Bryan Baucom its chief information officer to lead tech and data strategy after merging with Brightli in November — making it the nation’s largest nonprofit behavioral health provider. Baucom brings experience from local health care and retail roles. Springfield News-Leader
- ➤ Two Sunshine Street stores have rebranded as Vape n’ Smoke after a wrongful death suit linked to a fatal kratom overdose in 2022. An employee said the store no longer sells 7-OH products (a chemical tied to overdose risks) and now offers other tobacco and vape items. Springfield Daily Citizen
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Drury University is renovating the historic Benton Avenue AME Church at Benton and Central to reopen it in late-Spring (2026) as a community space that preserves its legacy, including restored pews and an office honoring Rev. Brown and the building’s role in local heritage since its 1922 construction. KY3
- ➤ 93-year-old Tom Parker is showing 18 new acrylic paintings in his exhibition A BRUSH WITH THE TRUTH by Thomas Parker through Feb. 28 at Obelisk Gallery (214 W. Phelps St.). KSMU
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Missouri’s film industry spent over $40.7 million in 2025 as 54 productions qualified for the state incentive program (with nearly $15.7 million in tax credits) and helped hundreds of local vendors while employing more than 2,100 residents. This spending reflects a strong boost to the local economy. KY3
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Missouri State University discussed renovating McDonald Arena at a Finance and Facilities meeting — planning a multi-phase project to relocate football operations with an 8,500 sqft locker room and weight room. The Board of Governors meets today to decide on hiring design services with private donations funding the project. KY3
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Springfield-Branson Airport Director Brian Weiler announced he will retire in summer 2026 after 15 years serving, and the board began planning his replacement on Feb. 19 & he pledged to support a smooth transition. KY3
- ➤ Springfield Police Department’s street outreach team (launched last fall) helped homeless individuals access driver’s licenses, medication, and job resources during its first three months of operation. The team partners with nonprofits, healthcare providers, and hospitals to build trust and connect people with vital services. KY3
- ➤ Residents filled the Historic Courthouse on Feb. 17 to oppose rezoning 40 acres north of Springfield for a planned battery energy storage system. Testimony focused on concerns over fire risk & the fire district’s readiness to respond. Springfield News-Leader
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Health officials warn that wildfire smoke and allergens are causing brief exposure to trigger symptoms (such as watery eyes and coughing) in sensitive individuals. Controlled burns planned over the weekend will have only local impact, and residents with respiratory issues are advised to check air quality reports. KY3
- ➤ Two well-known Springfield leaders, Logan Aguirre and Joselyn Baldner, have joined CoxHealth's board to support its regional growth. They began their service immediately (boosting the health system’s involvement in southwest Missouri). Springfield News-Leader
- ➤ A new free quarterly educational series on heart health kicked off Feb. 19 at 7 p.m. at Homewood Suites on S. National, offering lessons on blood pressure — including guidance on healthy habits. KY3
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Missouri Tigers had a strong February and hope to keep their bubble intact as they head into March games. Analysts Danielle Davis (Ozarks Sports Zone) and Aaron Ladd from KOMU-TV offer insight into the team’s outlook. KY3
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Shamrock Shuffle
8 AM – 12 PM — Park Central Square — Registration fees apply — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with the annual sprint through Downtown Springfield.
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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.
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Springfield Carnival of Ink 2026
12-8 p.m. — Springfield Expo Center — $22.75-$66.00 — Explore the vibrant world of ink and art at this all-ages carnival.
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