Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield police and Greene County deputies packed 300 emergency trauma relief kits yesterday at North Kansas Walmart as part of a national partnership (First Responder Kits4Kids) to help children cope during crisis situations.

The summer heat is making it difficult for pet owners to find live crickets for reptiles in Springfield.

Local stores like Petco on Washita Street and Frog Family Reptile Shop are facing shipment delays, and supplies are expected to improve by late summer.

The 90th Ozark Empire Fair starts today at 4 p.m. with a kickoff event featuring free entry for the first 1,000 visitors — vendors and volunteers have been busy setting up rides, food, and livestock exhibits to celebrate 90 years of community tradition and America’s 250th birthday.

Missouri entrepreneurs can register for a free Early-Stage Business Boot Camp that will offer startup training, coaching, and business planning support.

The four-week series will meet 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. from Sept. 28 through Oct. 22 at Missouri State University’s efactory (405 N. Jefferson Ave.).

Local families can host an international exchange student if they apply by Saturday, Aug.

1 through Springfield Public Schools (applicants must be at least 23 and pass required checks) as coordinators recruit hosts across Southwest Missouri.

Gov. Mike Kehoe visited Springfield on Wednesday to address local business leaders at the Chamber of Commerce’s annual State of the State address.

He outlined plans for business growth, stronger education initiatives, and improved public safety to benefit the community.

Springfield City Utilities held a ribbon cutting Tuesday on U.S. 65 near the Blackman Water Treatment Plant to launch a battery storage system that stores cheaper overnight electricity and feeds the grid when demand peaks.

The utility plans a larger (31-megawatt) system for James River Power Station later this year.

Terry Webster from Bolivar took part in a clinical trial at CMH for the Alzheimer’s treatment Kisunla and his memory tests have held steady over seven years.

His steady progress helped secure FDA approval for the drug, offering hope for families facing the disease.

Former Kickapoo High star Bella Fontleroy, noted for her time with the Baylor Bears, is set to head overseas to advance her basketball career in Europe; her move marks a fresh chapter for the local hoops community.

Underoath Concert

7:00 – 9:30 PM — The Venue on Sunset — Tickets from $80 — Underoath delivers an unforgettable live music experience in Springfield.