Good morning, Springfield.

A 62-year-old driver from Texas died when his 2024 Kia Soul hit a utility pole while traveling west on Grand Street near Laurel Avenue on Tuesday, Sept.

2—Springfield recorded its 15th fatal motor vehicle crash with 16 deaths this year.

A man escaped a house fire in Springfield when firefighters responded at 4 a.m. on Wednesday at the 200 block of North Airwood Avenue—investigators said the blaze started in the dryer in the laundry room and caused smoke and water damage to the rest of the home.

Prosecutors charged Harland King after he stabbed two women near the 700 block of North Jonathan on Tuesday, September 2 — police said one victim suffered critical injuries and King admitted he attacked them because he blamed them for putting him in jail.

The Greene County Sheriff’s Office and two Springfield police officers were recognized by the U.S. Attorney’s Office with the Guardian of Justice award for reducing gun violence by arresting gang members, and they continue working with community partners and a gang task force to keep shootings low.

Missouri State will dedicate its new 77,000-square-foot addition to Blunt Hall at 10:15 a.m. Sept.

12 in front of the north entrance, offering updated labs and lecture halls for the College of Natural and Applied Sciences. The project began in December 2022 and will complete its final phase in summer 2026 — expanding space for science and research.

Two roads in Springfield are closed this week from Sept.

3 to Sept. 10 for the Chestnut Expressway Safety and Operational Improvements project—Hilton Avenue is closed south of Chestnut and Nettleton Avenue is closed north of Chestnut. Contractor crews will reconstruct and pave the approaches while Chestnut remains open for traffic.

2025 Japanese Fall Festival

5-10 p.m. — Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden — Free entry — Experience the art of traditional Japanese sword fighting mixed with contemporary performances by Samurai Sword Soul.

Kid'Athlon

1:30-5 p.m. — Chesterfield Park — $35/Child; $25/Additional child — A mini-triathlon for kids ages 5-12 featuring swimming, biking, and running fun.

Blind Melon Concert

7 PM - 1 AM — The Regency Live — All ages — Blind Melon returns for a night of alternative rock after six years away.

Shining A Light: Youth Suicide Awareness and Prevention Webinar

This webinar will provide insight into warning signs, prevention strategies, and resources regarding youth suicide awareness and prevention, available here in Missouri. We encourage registration and attend as groups, as space is limited.

Springfield Native Plant Sale

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Bass Pro Shops — Cash, checks, and credit cards accepted — Discover a variety of native plants while supporting local conservation efforts.

Movie Matinee: Harvey Screening

2 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Combo ticket available — Enjoy a classic film about a man and his imaginary giant rabbit friend.

Fall Classics: The Princess Bride 2025

8-10 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — $12 to $25 — Celebrate the timeless classic with a costume contest and VIP perks at this annual showing.

Pound the Pavement for Parkinson's 5K Walk/Run

8:30 AM – 8:30 PM — Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park — Check event page for registration fees — Lace up and hit the ground running for a cause supporting Parkinson's awareness.

Cinema Sundays: Encanto

2-4 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Free entry — Enjoy a magical free showing of Encanto with popcorn, drinks, and dance performances.

VIP Fall Classics Package

8 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — $75 — Enjoy exclusive VIP experiences for classic films with early entry and raffle opportunities.