Daily
Springfield
Wednesday, October 1st, 2025
Good morning, Springfield. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 1st of October.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Discovery Center in downtown Springfield hosted its grand opening of an interactive exhibit for fire safety in partnership with Springfield Fire Department and Fire Master Fire Equipment, with a ribbon cutting on Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. Kids enjoyed exploring a fire truck cab, trying on firefighter suits, and using a 911 simulator—gaining real-life lessons about fire safety measures. OzarksFirst.com
- ➤ The Community Partnership of the Ozarks has taken over the Safe & Sober program after founder Kurt Larson stepped away on Sept. 30. The program, launched in 2004 and now active in 459 Missouri schools, will continue under CPO's Prevention & Youth Support Division to help young people make safe choices. Springfield News-Leader
- ➤ Rutledge Wilson Farm Park in Springfield begins its Pick Your Pumpkin season as Harvest Fest starts this weekend—activities include a corn maze, hayrides and more. The Harvest Fest Pumpkin Patch will open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. beginning tomorrow—pumpkins are sold by weight. OzarksFirst.com
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Hawaiian Bros filed a permit to change the old Wendy’s at 1272 E. Battlefield Rd into its first fast-food restaurant in Springfield— the permit is still pending. The chain has over 60 restaurants in 10 states and plans more local openings through 2027. Springfield Daily Citizen
- ➤ Upside Down Mercantile expanded and moved one door down on Commercial Street, opening its new location at 209 W. Commercial St. The grand opening is today and the store—run by the Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks—features a full coffee shop by Brew 21 that will offer local work opportunities. Springfield Daily Citizen
- ➤ Tim and Robyn McKee are opening a new hockey-themed ice cream shop called What the Puck?! in Nixa in mid-October — the shop will have 12 homemade flavors, a photo area, and a bubble hockey table. They will use a 1,600-square-foot space at 270 W. Mt. Vernon St. and hire five staff to offer local kids a fun place to hang out. Springfield Daily Citizen
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Auto repair shops in Springfield report that tariffs are raising prices on quality auto parts like engines, transmissions and chips—this change has also led to more knock-off parts that could damage vehicles. KY3
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ City Utilities of Springfield is breaking ground on three new natural gas turbines at McCartney Generating Station to add 150 MW of local power and 36 MW of battery storage for growing electricity needs. The turbines can run on natural gas, fuel oil, or hydrogen and are supported by approved rate adjustments taking effect in April 2027—completion is expected later in 2027. OzarksFirst.com
- ➤ Governor Kehoe has authorized the Missouri National Guard to support ICE processing facilities by handling data entry, case management, and logistical tasks starting today+ the support will continue under Title 32 duty status until September 30, 2026. KY3
- ➤ The Planning and Zoning Commission postponed a vote on the East Division rezoning until Oct. 9 — officials want to know if the developer will install a traffic signal at Division and LeCompte Road. Neighbors and city staff remain concerned about the 510-unit housing plan at 3820 E. Division St. Springfield Daily Citizen
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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.
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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.
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Speed Dating for Single Parents
2-5:30 p.m. — Arris Pizza Springfield — Limited seating — Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with fun speed dating rounds designed for single parents to connect.
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Movie Matinee: To Catch A Thief
2-4 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — $0 to $10 — Watch Cary Grant in the classic 1955 film about a retired cat burglar accused of a series of robberies.
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