Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 2nd of May.
Good morning, Springfield.
💼 Business
Michelle Pender and Tucker Franks spent $1.2 million to transform HootenTown campground into Finley & James River Co., a family friendly outdoor destination with a new general store, RV sites and plans for a pavilion, dog park and outdoor screening.
It will open in May 22 miles south in Crane.
Local auto body shops have seen growing business after Tuesday's hail as more cars are brought in for repair estimates.
Experts caution that DIY fixes (using heat or suction methods) risk further damage, so car owners should rely on professionals and file claims for proper repairs.
🎭 Culture
Country stars Little Big Town + Gretchen Wilson and other performers headlined the National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff Concert at Great Southern Bank Arena on Thursday, April 30.
The event took place on the Missouri State University campus with additional acts including Ozark Mountain Daredevils, Chris Janson, and Gary LeVox.
Springfield dedicated Queen's Gate 66—an Instagrammable sculpture marking the start of Route 66 near St. Louis Street and Glenstone Avenue—on May 1; the event featured ribbon-cutting remarks, a Pipkin Middle School choir, and a musical road playing America the Beautiful when driven over.
On Friday night, May 1, Springfield hosted the National Celebrate America on Route 66 Parade as part of the centennial kickoff celebration, featuring bands, floats (showcasing classic cars) and festive displays that honored local tradition.
Seventeen-year-old artist Mabel Smallwood turned a storage overflow at her parents’ home into a thriving art business and will showcase her polymer clay creations (booth No. 65) at Artsfest on Historic Walnut Street today, with an appearance at Pickwick Street Fair on June 6.
🎓 Education
Amy Crandall, a first-grade teacher at Fair Grove Elementary, was named KY3’s April Teacher of the Month and recognized for 24 years of service in a nurturing classroom.
The award includes a $500 Visa gift card plus a $100 gift card, honoring her longstanding commitment to her students.
🏈 Sports
Local trucking magnates Robert and Lawana Low will try again with their Kentucky Derby favorite, Renegade, raised on their Primatara Farm.
The race runs today at 5:57 p.m. with coverage starting at 1:30 p.m. as the horse is a 5-1 favorite trained by Todd Pletcher.
Missouri State's 2026 football schedule is set with challenging matchups including Texas A&M on Labor Day and a home game against Lindenwood; the Bears, led by first-year coach Casey Woods, continue their FBS transition as they face top teams and new conference rivals this season.
🎉 Springfield Events
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Comedian Shelly Belly
6-10 p.m. — Springfield Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of relatable laughs with the renowned comedian Shelly Belly in an intimate setting.
Springfield Indian Artifact Show
May 8-9 — Ozark Empire Fairgrounds — Entry fee may apply — Explore prehistoric artifacts and connect with local history enthusiasts.
William Montgomery Live Comedy Show
6:00 PM - 12:45 AM — Springfield Comedy Club — Ticket price varies — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian William Montgomery, known for his appearances on the hit podcast 'Kill Tony'.
Hometown Half Marathon & 5k/10k - Springfield
7-10 a.m. — Truman Elementary School — Registration required — Run through Springfield in a fun-filled family event with races for all ages.
43rd Mid America Street Rod Nationals
May 22 - 24 — Ozark Empire Fairgrounds — Varies by activity — Celebrate classic cars and street rod culture with a weekend full of fun for car enthusiasts and families alike.
Honor Flight 5K for Flights
8-11 a.m. — Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park — Entry starting at $25 — Participate to honor veterans and support their journey to memorials in Washington, D.C.
Ginger Billy Live Comedy Show
6 PM – 12 AM — Springfield, MO — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique humor of Ginger Billy, a viral sensation from rural South Carolina.
Overnight Ghost Hunt at Pythian Castle
7 PM-3 AM — Pythian Castle — Entry fee applies — Explore the historic Pythian Castle through guided investigations and storytelling.
🏠 Springfield Real Estate
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💼 Springfield Job Board
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📣 Springfield Announcements
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