Good morning, Springfield.

The Springfield-Greene County Library District will host a legislative discussion on Dec 2 at the Library Center Hatch Auditorium and the Blind Community Thrift Store will launch a radio reading service on Dec 1 to support those who are blind or visually impaired.

Meanwhile, JVIC Advanced Manufacturing Node invested nearly $4M in four tech projects, police chief Paul Williams was reappointed to key law enforcement boards and honored with the Liberty Bell Award, and several local businesses announced new hires, promotions, and community grant distributions—helping meet local needs.

Victory Mission provided free Thanksgiving meals on November 28 at Hope and Anchor Church as part of its 49-year tradition of supporting people experiencing homelessness—offering shelter, clothing, and recovery programs to help individuals rebuild their lives.

The nonprofit partnered with local churches to expand its reach and foster lasting community relationships.

Levi Grant said work is fast on a new Republic pizzeria in Town Center Plaza that will open on Christmas Eve—targeting customers from the closed Rocco’s Italian Kitchen.

The small 1,500-square-foot shop seats 40 and will also offer delivery services—bringing pizzas quickly to Republic.

Small business owners in Springfield are preparing for the 14th annual event this weekend & many stores are set to offer unique promotions like sticker rewards and prize spins to help shoppers find special gifts.

Owners say the event gives customers extra value during the holiday season and highlights the charm of our local shops.

The list shows many Christmas light displays in the Ozarks, with options at Silver Dollar City and Lights of Joy Drive-Thru in Branson, Gardens Aglow at Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden in Springfield, and others in nearby towns — visitors can use these details to plan festive outings.

Health insurance subsidies that helped lower costs during the COVID-19 pandemic will expire on Jan.

1, and many Missourians could see their monthly premiums jump over 300% if the Senate does not extend them in December—small businesses may have to raise deductibles or drop coverage for employees. More than 417,000 people currently use ACA plans, and the rising costs may force some to reconsider their health care options.

Yesterday, an estimated 81 million people shopped in stores as consumers were urged to check return policies because restocking fees could lower refunds.

Experts said buyers needed to review electronics' return windows carefully — and Cyber Monday will offer another chance for deals.

Cold weather across the Ozarks is causing tire pressure lights to turn on, and car expert Tim Fess from Rick’s Automotive explained that every 10-degree drop lowers tire PSI plus can freeze door handles and windshield wipers.

He advised drivers to park in covered areas, warm up vehicles, and consider using nitrogen to keep tire pressure more stable.

Local plumbers in Springfield warned that the day after Thanksgiving was busy with clogged drains from holiday feasts and advised residents to throw grease in the trash and run the garbage disposal on cold water—spacing out shower use and limiting toilet paper in toilets also helps avoid costly repairs.

Mark Hutchinson, an offensive guard for Missouri State, will be honored on Senior Day today at Plaster Stadium before the game against Louisiana Tech.

He spent 5 1/2 years with the team and said he is ready to give his all in what may be his last college game—hoping the team gets a bowl invite.

Nixa offensive tackle Jackson Cantwell, who committed to Miami and is one of Missouri’s top high school athletes, said he is ready to finish his season strong.

His undefeated team faces Pattonville today for a ticket to the title round—Cantwell hopes a deeper roster and strong play will bring a state championship to his community.

On Thanksgiving Day, more than 6,468 people ran in Springfield’s 31st Annual Turkey Trot 5K with nearly 600 dog owners joining the pace—making it the highest turnout since 2019.

The race raised funds for local charities including the Developmental Center of the Ozarks and the Springfield-Greene County Park Board Youth Recreation Scholarship Fund.

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.