Good morning, Springfield.

Chris Baird, a retired B-52 pilot with 20 years in the Air Force, now works with The Warrior’s Journey to help veterans heal—offering free services that have reached over 1,200 cases.

An Ozark High graduate who flew support missions after 9/11, he uses his experience to build stronger support for local veterans.

A 19-year-old Springfield woman died in a fatal crash at the Highway 13 intersection near Pinewood Drive over the weekend—local residents said the expansion to four lanes brought more traffic and speeding while highway patrol noted that driver choices were to blame.

Local auto body shops in Springfield report a surge in deer collisions during mating season—Hammer’s Autoworks VP Aaron Bruton said drivers have struck deer in several incidents and warned that repairs can cost up to $20,000 as peak season lasts until January.

Today, Shurita Thomas-Tate, the longest-serving school board member, announced she will run for a third term to fill one of two open seats on the board in the April 7 election.

The professor at Missouri State University (who has led reading programs and pushed for fair access) paid a fine for late financial reports (a charge she called unfair) and plans to keep working for good schools.

Springfield school board president Judy Brunner announced she will run for a second term in the April 2026 election to fill one of two three-year seats on the seven-member board—she is the first candidate to announce her bid.

Missouri's minimum wage will increase to $15.00 an hour on Jan.

1, 2026. Governor Kehoe signed HB 567 on July 10, which requires that tipped workers earn at least $7.50 per hour plus the additional amount needed to reach the minimum wage.

The City of Springfield is working on a new funding plan for a regional events and convention center after voters turned down a 3% hotel-motel guest license tax increase.

City officials will soon begin design and pre-construction work to secure $30 million in state funds and reduce local costs — a plan that could bring jobs and events to the community.

Greene County commissioners designated this week as Operation Green Light week to honor veterans—county buildings like the historic courthouse and sheriff’s office will be lit in green until Veterans Day, and residents and businesses can support veterans by replacing one regular light with a green one.

Missouri State beat Missouri Southern State 88-70 Tuesday night in their season opener.

Michael Osei-Bonsu scored 22 points — along with 14 rebounds, five assists, and three blocks — and helped his team overcome a close first half to take a strong lead in the second half.

KY3 Sports Director Sully Engels said the Bears will face a tough road test at Liberty on Saturday—he also previewed upcoming basketball matchups.

KDK Concert Series

5:30-11:30 p.m. — The Riff — $20 cash at the door — Enjoy headlining bands Sound The Alarm & Outlaws Reloaded alongside local artists.

Speed Dating for Adults

2-5 p.m. — Arris Pizza Springfield — Entry fee optional — Meet new people and spark connections while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere on the patio.

Haley Mae Campbell Live Performance

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Riff — Ticketed event — Experience the soulful sounds of Nashville country artist Haley Mae Campbell on her 'Next Chapter' tour.

Candlelight Concert: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons

8:45-9:45 p.m. — Stone Chapel — Tickets required — Experience the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons in a stunning candlelit setting.

The Band Feel

7-8:30 p.m. — The Regency Live — Cost not specified — Experience a musical journey with a band reviving the sounds and passion of the past.

Movie Matinee: Swingtime Screening

2-7 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Ticket & Concession Voucher combo available — Enjoy a classic 1936 film featuring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers in a delightful dance and romance tale.

BFF, Dates or Single Winter Splendor

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $44-$52 per person — Unleash your creativity and take home your own masterpiece in a fun, guided blacklight painting experience.

Cards at Cards Show

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Hammons Field — Tickets available at event — Discover, trade, and enhance your collection at SWMO's ultimate sports cards and collectibles show.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation Screening

8-9:30 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — $75 VIP tickets available — Celebrate the holidays with a classic film and a fun costume contest.

Missouri State Bears vs. Louisiana Tech Bulldogs

1-3 p.m. — Robert W. Plaster Stadium — Cost information not provided — Catch an exciting college football matchup between the Bears and the Bulldogs.