Good morning, Springfield.

81 Vietnam veterans returned home in Springfield today after an Honor Flight (greeted with flowers, hugs, and cheers) by local residents.

Brent Dunn, the longtime head of Missouri State advancement who began his service in 1985, announced on Friday, Jul.

10 that he will retire next summer as the university prepares to launch a national search for his replacement.

Missouri State University’s fundraising foundation reported raising over $49 million for FY 2026 (from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026) to support scholarships, new programs and campus initiatives.

Officials noted that more than 20,000 donors contributed nearly 100,000 gifts.

The Discovery Center and Springfield-Greene County Office of Emergency Management will host Prepared, Not Scared Storytime to teach kids safe ways to handle emergencies.

The session includes a breathing exercise by Ronnie Bell and more sessions on Aug. 14 and Sept. 11 (10:30 a.m.).

Gov. Mike Kehoe restricted $3.5M in state funding, putting Elevate Lives’ plan for a second phase of affordable apartments on hold; construction for the first phase funded by donations and grants will soon begin at the former Robberson Elementary School.

Missouri health experts have reported 23 cyclosporiasis cases so far this year (up from 13 last year) and urge careful washing of fruits and vegetables amid national outbreaks, while local hospitals report no cases in Springfield.

Missouri State increased football coaching salaries for 2026 under new head coach Casey Woods as part of the school’s investment after losing key staff.

The Bears will play on Sept. 5 at Kyle Field & face Texas A&M.

Missouri State confirmed Friday that wide receiver James BlackStrain did not receive his sixth-year waiver and was removed from the 2026 roster + the school continued to pursue additional waiver options after his contributions in spring drills as a former Georgia Tech player.

Fair Grove football team names Joshua Evans as its new head coach.

Evans, a former NAIA All-American from Evangel and Pleasant Hope, took charge in May and will lead the Eagles in a season opener against Mountain Grove on Friday, Aug. 28—hoping to build on a strong winning tradition.

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.