Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 17th of March.
Good morning, Springfield.
🏘️ Community
Spring break travelers fill the Springfield+Branson National Airport amid a continuing federal shutdown, leading to longer security lines than usual.
Officials advise arriving two hours early and having a Real ID ready to avoid a $45 fee for extra screening.
🌲 Environment
Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield plans prescribed burns from March 13 to March 31 to reduce invasive species and improve safety by restoring the historic landscape.
Some trails, parking areas, and the tour road will be closed (weather permitting), though the visitor center and museum remain open.
🏛️ Government
The City of Springfield has used its Clean Green Waste Impact Initiative (which funded a dedicated Clean Team) to clear 550 trash bags and plant 10,000 tulip bulbs along Kansas Expressway, Highway 13 and at the Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park ahead of Route 66 celebrations later this spring.
Springfield's Drew Lewis Foundation says its state funding was removed from Missouri's proposed budget, which may force layoffs and cut community programs.
Lawmakers are still debating the budget while the nonprofit seeks other support options.
🏥 Health
Missouri lawmakers are considering expanding Medicaid doula services by raising covered visits from six to 16 to improve maternal care and lower preventable deaths.
Bipartisan sponsors support the measure as part of ongoing efforts to address high maternal mortality among women on Medicaid.
CoxHealth has announced Dr. Matthew Alder as pediatrician-in-chief at the new St. Louis Children’s at CoxHealth — he will lead NICU and PICU services to expand pediatric care across southwest Missouri.
His extensive critical care experience strengthens a key collaboration with Washington University pediatric physicians.
🏈 Sports
The 34th annual National Christian Homeschool Basketball Championships is happening in Springfield this week with 414 teams and over 1,100 games held on 23 gym floors across the Ozarks.
The tournament will include a slam dunk and three-point contest at 7 p.m. today and crown a champion on Friday.
The Missouri State Lady Bears secured an NCAA Tournament berth after winning the Conference USA Tournament & rebounding with four wins in five games; they will play Stephen F.
Austin on March 18 in Austin, Texas.
🎉 Springfield Events
Submit an event →
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.
Zach Rushing: The Redneck Logic Tour
7 PM — Springfield Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of uncensored humor with comedian Zach Rushing as he shares his Southern tales.
Josh Blue Stand-Up Show
7-10:15 p.m. — Springfield Comedy Club — Minimum 2-item purchase required — Experience the comedic genius of Josh Blue, renowned for his improvisational skills and unique humor.
Josh Blue Live Comedy Show
6-10 p.m. — Springfield Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience Josh Blue's unique humor and engaging performance that breaks down stereotypes.
Todd Barry Live at Springfield Comedy Club
7-11 p.m. — Springfield Comedy Club — Two-item minimum — Enjoy a night of smart, unpretentious humor from the master of deadpan comedy.
Sounds Pretty Good Combo
7-9 p.m. — The Stardust Ballroom — $12 per seat — Enjoy a delightful evening of music at this cocktail table seating event.
🏠 Springfield Real Estate
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💼 Springfield Job Board
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📣 Springfield Announcements
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