Good morning, Springfield.

Today, first responders in Willard are hosting the sixth annual Boots, Badges and Bandages Community Challenge Blood Drive at the Recreation Center from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. — donors can vote for their favorite agency in a friendly competition while earning prizes.

A 25-year-old Springfield man riding his motorcycle died after a car failed to yield and turned in front of him near the West Bypass at the intersection of West Republic Road and South Hemlock Drive on Wednesday afternoon—he passed away at Cox South Hospital while the car driver sustained minor injuries.

Drury University will use a $225,000 grant from NetVUE—supported by a matching gift from alumni—to launch three new programs that let students explore local nonprofit work, join leadership workshops and connect with community leaders over the next two years.

The university says the grant will expand opportunities for hands-on civic engagement.

Missourians who saved receipts for fuel bought between July 1 and June 30 may be eligible for a refund of the 2.5–cent gas tax if they complete form 4923-H online by Sept.

30; eligibility applies only to highway use for vehicles under 26,000 pounds.

Missouri Senate Bill 262 raised the fuel tax to 29.5 cents per gallon on July 1 and offered drivers a refund if they saved gas receipts from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 with claims due by September 30.

Receipts collected from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 will be the final eligible batch—drivers must fill out a 4923-H Form online or by mail to claim the refund.

Medical professionals report pneumonia cases in adults ages 30-60 are increasing in parts of the Ozarks this summer—doctors advise residents to seek care promptly if symptoms like fever, cough, and shortness of breath persist.

Twelve local spots in Springfield and the Ozarks offer happy hour deals with low prices on drinks and food available on different days—specials include ladies' nights, all-day weekend deals, and rotating discounts at bars and restaurants.

The report details pricing and times to help residents plan their outings.

The Springfield Cardinals announced a partnership with Solera Energy to install a 99-kilowatt solar panel system at Hammons Field, which is expected to save about $280,000 over the next 20 years.

Construction will finish this month + the installation includes Power Alley with a cell phone charging station + a battery backup.

JAWS Anniversary Night

6:30-9 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Ticket purchase required — Celebrate Shark Week early with a screening of JAWS and ocean education activities.

Hades Climb Challenge

7-11 a.m. — Ozark Mountain Sports Complex — Registration fee required — Conquer the stairs and test your endurance at this electrifying climbing challenge.

Movie Matinee: Rocky

2 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Ticket & Concession Voucher combo available — Experience the iconic 1976 film 'Rocky' featuring Sylvester Stallone as a small-time boxer chasing the heavyweight title.

Robin Trower Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the legendary guitarist Robin Trower perform classics from his iconic albums.

Ultimate Tribute to the Bee Gees

7:30-10 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — $38 to $78 — Experience the stunning harmonies and disco hits of the Bee Gees performed live by an acclaimed tribute band.

The Cleverlys Live Performance

6-7:30 p.m. — Blue Room Comedy Club — Check venue for ticket prices — Enjoy a unique blend of comedy and bluegrass music from the renowned Cleverlys.

Soccer Summer Camp in Springfield

8 a.m. - 2 p.m. — Allison Sports Town — Registration required — Experience a unique soccer camp led by Real Madrid coaches for ages 6-17.

1 Million Cups-Springfield

9-11 a.m. — Bambinos Cafe on Battlefield — Free coffee — Network with local entrepreneurs and grow your business in a friendly setting.

Berlin Concert at Ozark Empire Fair

7:30-8:00 p.m. — Ozark Empire Fairgrounds — Tickets from $18.00 — Enjoy a live performance by the iconic band Berlin under the stars.

Anime Adventures (Ages 9-11)

9 AM – 4 PM — Discovery Center of Springfield — Cost info not provided — Dive into the creative world of anime with drawing, storytelling, and STEM challenges.