Good morning, Springfield.

Visitors to the Ozark Empire Fair now can carry alcoholic beverages around the fairgrounds as new vendors like Jalapeños Mexican Food offer margaritas (a change introduced for convenience), while fair officials said they will monitor behavior and review the policy after the fair.

A Springfield family is seeking answers after their pet cat Halo died from injuries sustained when it was trapped in a metal animal trap just outside their backyard last week, with police referring the case to animal control.

Springfield experts from the University of Missouri Extension and GorillaGuard Pest Control say recent rain may bring moles that damage lawns by following grubs and earthworms (commonly near driveways and garden beds).

Homeowners should act quickly when fresh tunnels appear to limit further damage.

Parkview football starts a new era with head coach Derek Daniels, a former NAIA All-American basketball player who served as defensive coordinator and plans to blend his disciplined style with a competitive QB battle between senior Brock Brooks + junior Marcus Grube.

Missouri State confirmed its game with Oklahoma will be on Sept.

9 at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium; the Bears will earn $1.2 million for the trip. This game adds to their lucrative nonconference schedule ahead of upcoming seasons.

Missouri State named former Dallas Baptist pitching coach Cale Johnson as its new pitching coach after a season with high earned run averages.

Johnson plans to help keep key players like Max Knight + Curry Sutherland and blend new recruits for a stronger 2027 season.