Good morning, Springfield.

Former fire chief Matt Bramel retired from the Doolittle Rural Fire Protection District after being diagnosed with terminal stage five renal cell cancer in December 2024—he began his firefighting career at age 14.

Local supporters are hosting a softball tournament on June 14th—proceeds will help his family as they honor his 36 years of service.

Firefighters in the Ozarks have battled wildfires that burned thousands of acres, and families have faced extra hardship managing home duties and constant worry.

Volunteer firefighter Gary Fehr from Southern Webster County spent ten hours fighting flames—while his wife Ingrid kept their nonprofit and household running amid uncertainty.

One person died when a black SUV and a black Mustang crashed Saturday afternoon on the 4400 block of S.

Fremont near E. Buena Vista Street in south Springfield — the other driver was taken to a hospital, and police said speed might have been a factor while City Utilities crews fixed a hit power pole and closed Fremont for hours.

A 44-year-old Summersville man died Friday evening after failing to negotiate a curve and crashing his Spyder motorcycle on Missouri Highway 17 five miles north of Mountain View in Texas County — he was taken by helicopter to a hospital in Springfield.

A driver was arrested for driving while intoxicated after crashing a car into Rogue Barber Co's building in downtown Springfield Friday night around 10:40 p.m.—police said they are still investigating the incident and the shop will reopen Monday.

Springfield School Board candidate David Myers discussed his campaign and priorities in a one-on-one interview with Parker Padgett on March 22 — he outlined his stance on key issues.

Ozarks First will post additional interviews online as Election Day approaches — offering more insight for local voters.

Springfield will hold its mayoral election on April 8 as local business owner Jeff Schrag and former council member Mary Collette run for a new mayor.

Both candidates say early talks—especially between developers and neighborhoods—will improve planning and ease tensions over future growth.

Jersey Mike’s Day of Giving

10 AM - 9 PM | Jersey Mike's Subs | 100% of sales go to support the Child Advocacy Center | Enjoy a meal while helping vulnerable children in the community.

Learn to Play Monkey Palace at Bricks & Minifigs

6-7:30 p.m. — Village Meeple Board Game Cafe — Free entry — Celebrate the return of Monkey Palace with a fun strategy game and snacks for all ages.

Tipps and Obermiller Concert

Experience live music from Tipps and Obermiller at a communal wine house in Springfield, featuring a cozy atmosphere.

Jeremy Piven Live

1 PM — Blue Room Comedy Club — Ticket discounts available — Catch comedian Jeremy Piven in a lively performance at Springfield's local venue.

On-Site Tour at The Waterford at Ironbridge

Experience a guided tour of The Waterford at Ironbridge, showcasing top-notch amenities and highly rated senior living services including exceptional meals and activities.

Movie Matinee: Moonstruck

2-4 p.m. | Gillioz Theatre | Combo ticket available | Enjoy the classic film Moonstruck featuring Cher and Nicolas Cage as love intertwines in an Italian-American family.

SEArenity Yoga

7:30-8:30 p.m. — Bass Pro Shops — $16 — Experience an hour of relaxation with restorative yoga amidst an open ocean exhibit.

Gillioz Jazz Festival

6-9 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Free entry — Experience jazz imagery and live performances as part of the Gillioz April Artwalk.

Ozarks Beerfest

2-5 p.m. — Springfield Expo Center — All proceeds benefit local charities — Experience the largest beer festival in the region with unlimited samples of over 150 craft brews and more.

The Wizard of Oz Screening

2-4 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Free entry — Experience the timeless classic on the big screen with a heartwarming journey down the yellow brick road.