Good morning, Springfield.

The Springfield metro area now has over 500,000 residents after growing from 475,000 since April 2020, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

The Chamber said the milestone could spur future major developments and new jobs in the region.

Contractors paused work on the 2026 St. Jude Dream Home — a fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital — during Thursday morning’s signing ceremony at Anthony Park in south Springfield.

Raffle tickets will go on sale in April with the grand prize drawing set for June 28.

Chief Meteorologist Ron Hearst, who has served KY3 for 38 years, announced his retirement with his last day set for late summer.

He has long been a trusted face in Springfield weather, teaching weather safety and sharing forecasts with the community.

A new mural is taking shape at the corner of Campbell Ave & Walnut Street in downtown Springfield as it replaces the long-loved Robert E.

Smith tribute that was painted over in February. Muralist Austin Sepulveda expects to finish the work by March 28 while owner David Pere donates $5,000 to support a fundraiser that has already surpassed its goal.

Three unused carpet squares from SGF's terminal flooring were donated yesterday to the History Museum on the Square, where Museum Director Sean FitzGibbons accepted them at a special ceremony + airport officials celebrated preserving a cherished local icon.

This donation preserves a unique piece of Springfield history for future generations.

Springfield Public Schools named 59 seniors as Rose Honorees (using highest GPAs) with their banquet held Thursday at Drury University, and officials announced the district will switch to a cum laude system next school year to recognize more students.

Springfield Public Schools approved contracts on March 24 to plan upgrades at Harrison Stadium using funds set aside for indoor athletic centers & may begin work after the fall season ends.

The design and surveying contracts aim to improve facilities for Central High School teams.

Warmer weather has spurred early spring mowing in Springfield as residents tend lawns amid drought and wildfire risk.

Local experts advise proper mower maintenance – including cleaning and re-greasing parts – to prevent accidental fires.

The Missouri Department of Conservation has announced Arbor Day events in April (this official day encourages tree planting and care) and urges locals to order native tree seedlings from the George O.

White State Forest Nursery by April 15. National Arbor Day falls on April 24.

MU Extension has issued five new publications to help residents manage Alpha Gal syndrome – a food allergy from tick bites – with tips on grocery shopping, safe cooking and proper nutrition as warmer weather brings more ticks.

The resources aim to reduce isolation with clear, actionable advice.

Chase Branham led the Wildcats to their first state title since 1982 by scoring a game-high 31 points last Saturday, and he will soon decide whether to return to Logan-Rogersville or transfer to a basketball academy next season.

His next step will shape his promising basketball career.

Missouri basketball stays positive after a first-round tournament loss in St. Louis while an Ozarks native leads the baseball Tigers.

Fans can watch how the teams adjust in upcoming games.

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.

Big Boogie & JaYy Wick Concert

7 PM — Springfield, MO — $50.00-$135.00 — Experience an electrifying night of music with top artists in a vibrant atmosphere.

Stone Cold and The Jackal Live Show

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Springfield Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of comedy and music with soap opera stars Steve Burton and Bradford Anderson.

Meet the Morgan Horse

1-4 p.m. — Pinegar Arena — $5 carriage rides — Experience horse demos and fun family activities at this lively event.

Spring Dance Concert: Bloom Revue

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — $0 to $30.50 — Enjoy a vibrant variety dance concert featuring local talent and choreography.