Good morning, Springfield.

Celebrate Springfield launched its year-round community engagement initiative yesterday by partnering with 25 local businesses and groups to offer free cultural events and experiences.

Erin Danastasio (executive director) said the kickoff removes barriers like transportation and cost so residents can get more involved in Springfield.

Justin Beall from Omaha was arrested in Springfield after threatening to shoot a school on High Road and saying he was carrying his rifle—police took him into custody at the Victory Shelter for Men and he is now in Greene County Jail with no bond.

Nine Springfield high school seniors have been named semifinalists in the 71st annual National Merit Scholarship Program; five of the students are from Central High School—others attend different local schools and will compete for scholarships next spring.

Missouri State University researchers are planning to crowdfund an expedition to the Amazon Rainforest—using LiDAR to explore geoglyphs that could indicate an ancient civilization.

Local researcher Chris Bodine, an Ozarks native, says the project will be a new chapter in pioneering research—aiming to be the first to verify a legendary lost city.

Springfield City Council reviewed bills affecting City Utilities—one proposes a 3% rate rise in 2027 and a 3.6% rise in 2028 that would add about four dollars to bills while requesting a near $805 million 2026 budget to cover projects and weather costs.

Council members raised concerns about transit funding—voting on both measures is set for September 22.

Community Blood Center of the Ozarks is urging eligible donors to give O-negative blood as less than one day's supply is available for emergencies; hospitals depend on this universal type in critical times.

Donors can schedule an appointment or visit a donor center immediately (only about 3% of those eligible donate).

Springfield gardeners are planting fall blooms like mums, asters and pansies to brighten their yards before frost hits—frost usually comes between October 10 and 15 with a freeze about two weeks later.

Field Specialist Kelly McGowan of UMO Extension says using movable containers lets gardeners protect these hardy plants on cold nights.

Missouri State will host SMU at Plaster Stadium on Saturday, Sept.

13 after its win over Marshall as it begins a home-and-home series—with the second game scheduled in Dallas on Sept. 26. The matchup kicks off at 2:30 p.m. on CBS Sports Network with key players like quarterback Jacob Clark and running back Ramone Green preparing for the contest.

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.

BEATrio with Bela Fleck

7:30-9 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Ticketed event — Enjoy an innovative collaboration featuring banjo, harp, and drums that promises captivating melodies and rhythms.

Cindy Ausilio Benefit Concert

6-10 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Tickets support a worthy cause — Enjoy an evening of live music while benefiting a beloved local figure in need.

Route 66 Paddle Battle Pickleball Tournament

8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. — Meador Park — $320 per team — Compete in the innovative Minor League Pickleball format with teams of four in a fun and social event.

Iam Tongi Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — The Regency Live — Ticketed event — Experience the soulful sound and infectious smile of Iam Tongi in a vibrant live setting.