Good morning, Springfield.

Hannah Harper, a 25-year-old native of Willow Springs, won American Idol on May 11 — the first female country artist to win since Carrie Underwood — sparking pride in southern Missouri.

Child safety experts urge parents to talk with kids about online safety as summer break begins.

They advise reviewing app settings & offering screen-free activities to help children stay safe.

Meteorologists say a developing El Niño may bring a cooler, wetter summer for Springfield despite near-normal temperatures, & City Utilities has already raised residential electricity rates by about $14 per month due to higher fuel costs.

Whitney Morrow, executive vice president at Guaranty Bank, retired May 13 after over 40 years in financial services.

The bank praised her lasting impact on treasury management and client service.

On April 25, the Springfield Police Department held its annual Gold Badge Ball to honor citizens and officers for exceptional bravery and service.

Awards were given in six categories (including the Medal of Valor Silver and the Lifetime Achievement Award), recognizing acts that positively impacted the community.

Mercy's pediatric center reached a milestone on May 12 when the final beam was raised at the O'Reilly Pediatric Center.

The 40,000 sqft building at 6375 S. Innovation Ave. in Ozark is scheduled to open in December to provide pediatric care from Mercy and Children's Mercy.

High school baseball standout Cole Milliken, credited by Lebanon’s new head coach for his role last summer with a 1.000 OPS, saw a slow start this season and is now working to boost his performance heading into his senior year.

Mike Webb, a Bass Pro Shops sponsored angler, provided fishing tips for Bull Shoals, Table Rock, Stockton, and Lake of the Ozarks on May 12.

He advised using a Zara Spook early and switching baits later & Kevin Williams was named Ozarks Angler of the Month.

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.

Henry Cho Live

8-11 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of clean comedy from acclaimed comedian Henry Cho.

Ian Bagg Live Comedy Show

6-10 p.m. — Springfield Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience hilariously interactive comedy from a world-touring performer noted for his energetic style.

Ian Bagg Live Show

6-10 p.m. — Springfield Comedy Club — Tickets start at $133 — Experience an unforgettable evening of comedy with Ian Bagg in Springfield.

The Mystery Hour – Mother Road Edition

8 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Free entry — Experience an Emmy Award-winning talk show featuring comedy, music, and unexpected interviews.

Kam Patterson Live Comedy Show

6-10 p.m. — Springfield Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience energetic comedy from a rising star and newest SNL cast member.