Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of July.
Good morning, Springfield.
🏘️ Community
Harmony House in Springfield named Kirstyn Walker its new executive director.
Walker, a Missouri State University alum with extensive experience in victim services — she served as assistant director since July 2025 — will lead the nonprofit as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.
💼 Business
SRC reported a 7% stock gain and announced a leadership change during its shareholder meeting today in Springfield.
Company leaders (including CEO Jack Stack) outlined future expansion plans through significant capital investments.
Andy's Frozen Custard has submitted a plan requesting $4.4M in tax relief to fund its new headquarters (on a 10-acre site) in east Springfield.
The City Council will hold a public hearing on July 13 to review the proposal.
Great Southern Bank announced it will close nine branches, including three in the Springfield area—331 South Ave, 1444 W.
State Highway J in Ozark and 1391 N. Main St in Nixa—on Oct. 1 while cutting 66 jobs effective Sept. 30 as part of restructuring.
🎭 Culture
C.C. Williford was Springfield’s first radio weatherman on KWTO, known for his engaging forecasts and conservation tips.
His broadcasts, which began on Jul. 1, 1935, left a lasting mark on the community & inspired traditions such as naming an elephant at Dickerson Park Zoo.
🎓 Education
Missouri State University refutes a study that claimed its EMBA program used taxpayer funds to train Chinese defense executives and says no dollars were misused.
The university has launched a review of its Chinese partnerships (to check compliance with legal and security standards).
Missouri State University announced leadership hires: P.
Brandon Johnson as associate provost for student success to begin Aug. 1 plus Rachel Munday as assistant vice president for economic development and Matt Curry as director of Jordan Valley Innovation Center. The moves will boost graduation rates and strengthen local business ties.
🌲 Environment
The Asian needle ant was confirmed in Missouri today at 3:48 a.m. posing a risk of painful stings and disruption to native insects and termite activity (which may raise wildfire risk).
University of Missouri Extension and state agencies are tracking its spread to assess ecological impact.
🏛️ Government
A state budget veto has cut $3 million from a $6 million request to fund recovery services at Springfield Recovery Community Center + treatment partners, potentially reducing help for 1,200 people.
Local nonprofits urge community donors + volunteers to assist as lawmakers consider new funding measures.
🏥 Health
On June 30, tests found dangerous E. coli levels in Finley and James rivers, so the Health Department warns residents against swimming there today.
Residents can choose safer waters at Bull Creek, Swan Creek, Busiek State Forest, and local lakes.
Experts advise that people with dementia avoid noisy fireworks and crowded celebrations since bright flashes + loud sounds can cause anxiety.
Families should create calm areas and opt for quieter alternatives like glow sticks + crafts + TV to help maintain routine today.
🏈 Sports
The Missouri State Lady Bears have released their 2026-2027 nonconference schedule under coach Beth Cunningham, retaining key players such as guard Kaemyn Bekemeier and forward Lainie Douglas.
The schedule includes tough matchups (SEMO, Wyoming, Wichita State, Marquette) and a Cancun Challenge event for an exciting season ahead.
🎉 Springfield Events
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The Boxmasters Concert
7:30-9:00 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience the Sixties inspired sounds of The Boxmasters as they celebrate their latest album, 'In The Bay'.
Family Fishing Fun Night
6-9 p.m. — Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park — $10/person (own gear) or $15/person (rental) — Enjoy a relaxing evening of catch-and-release fishing, a Cow Train, and more at a scenic park.
Springfield Junior City Championship
Eligible for Junior Golf Scoreboard points — Bill & Payne Stewart Golf Course — Entry fee applies — Compete in a prestigious junior golf tournament.
Houndmouth Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — General admission available — Experience Houndmouth’s emotionally resonant music from their new album 'Lordy' in a historic venue.
Ozarks Lunkers 2026 Season
7:05 PM — Wilson Logistics Arena — Tickets from $55 — Catch the excitement as the Ozarks Lunkers take on Arkansas in this thrilling season match.
Dinner in a Cave with Springfield Community Gardens
5:30-8 p.m. — Crystal Cave — Proceeds benefit local non-profit — Experience a unique underground dinner with locally sourced cuisine and live music.
Nike Baseball Camp for Kids
9 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Route 66 Stadium — $299 for three days — Young athletes enhance their skills with professional coaching from the Springfield Cardinals.
Underoath Concert
7:00 – 9:30 PM — The Venue on Sunset — Tickets from $80 — Underoath delivers an unforgettable live music experience in Springfield.
🏠 Springfield Real Estate
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💼 Springfield Job Board
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📣 Springfield Announcements
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