Good morning, Springfield.

Black Friday sales have begun today with most deals running through the weekend—shoppers need to rise early only for rare door-buster items.

Consumer Reports said TVs sold today may have fewer features to lower costs and advised checking return policies and asking for price matches if needed.

Yesterday, The History Museum on the Square aired its 'Sharing Stories of the Crossroads' radio program on 92.3 FM where host John Sellars interviewed Ron and Richard Ollis of Ollis Akers Arney Insurance and Business Advisors, a family business that has served Springfield for 140 years — dating back to 1885 — and shared insights on its beginnings and future plans.

Running in the cold burns extra calories but can cause lung irritation when cold air triggers bronchospasm; doctors advise wearing a scarf (to warm the air) and warming up before exercising.

The Dallas Cowboys hosted the Kansas City Chiefs on Thanksgiving after defeating the Super Bowl champion Eagles four days earlier—star quarterbacks Dak Prescott and Patrick Mahomes led their teams in a storied rivalry game as both sides pursued a playoff push.

Missouri State’s Lady Bears begin a challenging 21 day nonconference stretch today when they face Florida State at 3 p.m. in Fort Myers during the GEICO Coconut Hoops Thanksgiving week tournament.

A win may lead them to play Oklahoma on Saturday—if they lose, they could face Coppin State—while home games against Kansas, Arkansas and Gonzaga follow before Conference USA play starts on Jan. 4.

Missouri State hosts Louisiana Tech today at 1 p.m. at Plaster Stadium for the Conference USA regular-season finale—Louisiana Tech’s top defense led by Mekhi Mason is expected to challenge the Bears’ passing game as graduate senior quarterback Jacob Clark may play his final game.

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.

The Arc of the Ozarks: Christmas Extravaganza

5:30-9:30 p.m. — White River Conference Center — Cost not specified — Celebrate the season with a festive fundraising event for Children’s Autism Services.

Taj Farrant's Final Show of 2025

6-8:30 p.m. — The Riff — $5 cover for minors — Experience electrifying guitar work as Taj Farrant returns to his home stage for an unforgettable performance.

Toys for Tots 2025

2-5 p.m. — Corwin Ford of Springfield — Free entry — A community event supporting local children in need through toy donations.

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings

8:45 p.m. — Stone Chapel — Up to 12% Off — Experience the enchanting sounds of Christmas carols played by the Listeso String Quartet under candlelight in a stunning chapel setting.

It's A Wonderful Life Film Screening

2-4 p.m. — Gillioz Theatre — Free admission — Celebrate the holiday spirit with a classic film showcasing heartfelt moments.

Springfield Ballet - The Nutcracker

7-8:30 p.m. — Springfield Little Theatre — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the timeless holiday story brought to life with beautiful choreography and music.

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Stone Chapel, Drury University — Ticketed event — Experience a magical candlelight concert featuring a string quartet performing beloved Christmas carols.

Festival of Lights Free Ice Skating

2:00 PM - 4:45 PM — Brightspeed Ice Park — Free entry, $3 skate rental — Enjoy free ice skating and holiday lights at the park.

OMRR's Run for the Ranch

9:15 a.m. — MSU Parking Lot #22 — Registration fees apply — Participate in a variety of races from a 5K to an endurance run on a scenic route.