Good morning, Springfield.

While some first responders held a remembrance Friday for the 343 fallen firefighters of 9/11, Springfield firefighters will climb in the 14th annual Memorial Stair Climb today at 8:30 a.m. at Route 66 stadium.

Springfield native Joshua Sekunda, born on 9/11 and turning 25 this year, is working to enlist in the Army to become a firefighter.

He has dropped 60 pounds to meet physical standards and says his birthday has inspired his path to service.

Officer Frank Donohue, now with Nixa PD, recalled his 9/11 service as an NYPD officer and said the tragic day changed his life, urging us to remember as friends and neighbors still feel its lasting effects — his words highlight an enduring impact on the community.

Volunteers delivered meals to over 2,000 first responders in Greene, Christian and Webster counties on Sept.

11. The Women’s Council of Realtors loaded lunches on Friday morning (with off-duty responders receiving gift cards) through donations from Hy-Vee, Price Cutter and 65 Self Storage.

Art returns to Springfield-Branson National Airport as flooring renovations nearly finish.

Randy Bacon’s installation 'The Life I Choose' launches in the Sky Gallery with a special event Wednesday, Sept. 16 from 4 to 4:30 p.m. and remains on display through December.

The College of the Ozarks held a 9/11 memorial ceremony on Friday, Sept.

11, featuring a piece of the Twin Towers and remarks from Navy Rear Adm. Hank Molinego. The event took place at the *Lest We Forget* Memorial on James Forsythe Dr, next to the Point Lookout Fire Department.

Twenty-five years ago, a Springfield road crew stopped work on 9/11 when the government halted blasting, and when the dust cleared they discovered Riverbluff Cave, the oldest fossil cave site in North America.

Geologist Matt Forir said small fossils found in the cave show clues of ancient mammals and past climates.

Mercy EMS director Bob Patterson recalled how 9/11 led his team to adopt stricter safety protocols and consistent protective gear in Springfield, noting that first responders now remain alert for unusual events.

Missouri State head coach Casey Woods detailed his outlook for the home opener against Lindenwood, which is set for later today in Springfield (local game insight).

High school football week 3 presents early tests as Republic meets Nixa in a key game — a matchup that will set the tone for the season.