Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield has launched the Help Starts Here initiative by placing signs at busy intersections to urge donations to nonprofits instead of giving cash directly to panhandlers.

Led by Councilwoman Callie Carrol and partnered with local groups, the program aims to support services that offer lasting help.

The YouthConnect Center, a shelter for homeless youth (ages 13-21), has partnered with the GLO Center to expand its overnight service from three to five nights a week, replacing GLO’s Crisis Cold Weather Shelter; the new schedule will support local teens facing housing instability.

Missouri State University named three inductees to the Missouri Public Affairs Hall of Fame (early education pioneer Susan Blow, humanitarian Ken Rutherford, and the Dunn Family Foundation) and will honor them at 6 p.m. Sept.

10 at The Old Glass Place in Springfield.

Journalist Jacob Brower will debut his novel September 10 on Sept.

10 at One More Page (306 E. Commercial St.) in Springfield. The public launch is sponsored by the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce and marks the 25th anniversary of the day the story is set.

Missouri State University’s fall semester begins Aug.

17 as nearly 3,400 students start moving in from Aug. 13-16, kicking off a Week-of-Welcome with Bear Bash 7-10 p.m. at North Mall, New Student Convocation at Great Southern Bank Arena, and more events through Aug. 21.

A new report from Environment America shows that 85% of 202 tested Missouri swimming sites had days with unsafe bacteria levels, prompting officials to advise locals to review water quality reports (especially after heavy rain) before swimming.

Chef Dyllan Dale of Wild Foods by Dyllan has shared his sweet corn relish recipe using fresh ingredients.

The recipe mixes corn, red bell pepper, jalapeño, red onion, vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, then simmers until tender — served warm, room temperature, or chilled.

Missouri Sports Hall of Fame reopened its interactive museum in downtown Springfield off West Walnut Street Thursday after a long renovation, showcasing rotating exhibits on legendary athletes + teams and welcoming visitors weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.