Good morning, Springfield.

Homeowners in Island Green are facing months-long delays for roof repairs after the April hail storm, as contractors work slowly in oppressive summer heat to manage a historic backlog.

Contractor Jared Swift says crews are taking extra time to keep workers safe.

On Monday, the Salvation Army of Springfield reached a milestone as community leaders and staff signed and placed the final beam (leaving a record of involvement) for a new Harbor House food pantry.

The Lives Transformed Campaign has raised $15 million of its $20 million goal to expand services.

Veteran restaurateur Angel Kim will open Melting Borders on Tuesday, Aug.

18 at 3371 E. Montclair St. in Springfield — his final venture serving a diverse fusion menu of Korean, Argentine, and American dishes in a spacious setting.

Udderly Divine Creamery now delivers farm-to-table dairy, eggs and baked goods to local spots and doorstep orders, as the Matthews family uses ethical care + quality methods to support nearby agriculture.

The Springfield Regional Arts Council released a 10-year plan called 'This Place We Make' in July to boost local art and culture based on input from over 1,000 community members.

The council is now working on an implementation schedule to further public participation.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services proposed rule changes to the local Head Start program — shifting staffing and parental committee requirements and opening a public comment period until Tuesday, Oct.

6. Staff worry that reducing supports may affect quality and child development.

On Wednesday, Aug. 12, Ozarks Tech held a grand opening for its $48M Michael L.

Parson Student Union in Springfield—featuring study rooms, a court, and dining options. Former Gov. Mike Parson and community leaders marked the milestone that will boost student engagement on campus.

Missouri State University announced that Susan Blow, Dr. Ken Rutherford and the Dunn Family Foundation will be inducted into the Public Affairs Hall of Fame next month.

The induction ceremony is scheduled for Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. at The Old Glass Place in Springfield.

Drury University welcomed 459 first-year students on Monday (382 freshmen and 67 transfers, including 51 international from 29 countries) as it began its 154th academic year, and classes will start Tuesday, Aug.

18 with 170 enrolled through the Springfield Promise program.

Springfield is applying for a $300,000 grant to fund its FoodWise Initiative (an outreach program on food storage and meal planning) after a study found 20% of landfill waste is food.

Staff will apply by Sept. 1, and the program is expected to start in January.

Mortgage rates dipped slightly this week, snapping a six‐week streak of gains, but high rates and home prices continue to challenge first‐time buyers.

Local groups like the Springfield Community Land Trust offer programs that let buyers purchase homes while the trust retains the land — an alternative path to ownership.

As triple-digit temperatures hit Springfield, Mercy Emergency Medical Services has shortened shifts and supplied extra hydration drinks for first responders.

Bob Patterson (EMS executive director) said the measure helps protect crews including police and firefighters during extreme heat.

Missouri high school football will kick off on Aug.

28, and Springfield talents like Keiran Govan of Republic and Adam McKnight of Nixa are among the top players to watch this season, with dual-sport skills (such as track and field) boosting their impact on local play.

The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame reopened on Thursday, Aug.

13 in downtown at (431 W. Walnut St.) after five years of closure, displaying exhibits honoring local athletes and teams. It is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.