Good morning, Springfield.

Golden Goose Cafe will soon open at The Library Center in a space vacant for over a year.

Owner Travis Whitney plans to offer custom coffee drinks, fresh pastries, and homemade treats after obtaining business permits – a change library staff and patrons eagerly await.

On April 7, Springfield voters will decide on a measure to increase the lodging tax by 3% to fund a major renovation of the Expo Center into a modern Convention and Events Center (featuring a new exhibit hall and ballrooms), expected to drive tourism and boost the local economy.

The City of Springfield launched its Know Your Pipes public campaign to educate residents on proper disposal of household waste to prevent sewer backups and costly damage.

The Wastewater Division is sharing printed materials + digital guides and hosting community events to support homeowner maintenance of private sewer laterals.

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department reported that a second skunk near Fellows Lake tested positive for rabies on Apr.

3 + the risk remains low while residents are advised to keep their distance from wildlife.

The Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks offers assistance for diagnostic testing to women under 35 (U-35 Program) when insurance leaves gaps.

The program honors founder Mary Beth O’Reilly’s legacy and promotes Buddy Check 3 Day for self-exams in our community.

Local agencies in Springfield and Greene County warned residents after traces of nitazenes — a synthetic opioid five to 10 times stronger than fentanyl — were found in wastewater from 26 of 37 schools since January, urging people to learn how to use Naloxone in case of an overdose.

Rural Missourians remain much more likely to lack health insurance than urban residents, according to KY3 reporting.

The findings underscore ongoing challenges in health access for the community.

Spring practices underway in Springfield saw Missouri State quarterbacks Skyler Locklear and Henry Belin IV battling for the starting role under new coach Casey Woods (new to the team).

Their game reps will decide who leads the offense this season.

Local high school spring sports were in focus on Friday when Ozarks Sports Zone recapped games, including MSU baseball's big win at Hammons that energized the community.

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.

Route 66 Centennial Kick-Off Celebration

April 30th — Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque — Varied pricing — Celebrate a century of Route 66 with concerts, parades, and community events in Springfield.

Becky Robinson Live

8-11 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience high-energy comedy from LA-based sensation Becky Robinson as she brings her unique characters to the stage.

Let's Drive Campaign

12-1 p.m. — The Library Center — Free entry — Attend a class to transform your business ideas into actionable plans with expert guidance.