Good morning, Springfield.

Springfield-based Convoy of Hope is sending hot meals, groceries, cleaning supplies, and tools overseas to help flood victims in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Malaysia after historic rainfall displaced over 3 million people in late November.

The relief agency is coordinating with local partners to support ongoing recovery efforts.

Share Your Christmas is asking Springfield residents to donate toys, clothing, and funds to help local families and care center residents, including a grandmother raising her two granddaughters.

Gifts can be delivered to the Administration entrance at Crosslines Community Outreach (3055 E. Division St.) by Dec. 17.

Several small business owners in Willard face steep rent hikes at East Center shopping complex, with new rates set to raise monthly payments from about $3,000 to nearly $12,000, risking closures and impacting up to 100 (local jobs).

One owner announced her shop will close before Christmas.

Springfield CU has identified over 52,000 water service lines while roughly 38,000 remain unknown.

In January, staff will visit homes that haven’t self-reported their pipe material to meet new federal lead regulations + protect drinking water.

Missouri Senate Bill 81 requires churches, small towns, and civic groups to use licensed fireworks operators for their shows before the upcoming 250th anniversary celebration for safety reasons.

The new regulation clarifies requirements for displays using consumer-grade products, officials say.

Willard officials propose an underpass at the busy junction (Highways 160 and AB) to ease congestion caused by 8,000 daily vehicles.

The $1.5 million project details will be discussed at a meeting next Thursday, Dec. 11 at 5 p.m. at Willard City Hall.

CoxHealth is partnering with Children's Miracle Network for Miracle Week to support local kids with critical care.

Donations are accepted through Sunday, Dec. 7 (match up to $100,000) and include monetary and non-monetary gifts to help ease health costs.

Local safety experts warn that thick winter coats may leave a dangerous gap between car seat straps and a child's body — reducing the seat's proper hold.

They advise buckling children in a car seat with thin clothing and adding the coat after securing them in Springfield.

Rachel Albin, a business owner and mother, discovered in September 2024 she had triple negative breast cancer after missing her May mammogram — a delay that led to chemotherapy and surgery.

The local Breast Cancer Foundation helped cover expenses, and she is scheduled for another surgery in January.

Missouri State Bears are exploring bowl options and ramping up their basketball schedule, according to KY3 Sports Director Sully Engels — the team will face tougher matchups as games approach.

Nixa football players Randy Flint and Jayden McCaster were named Athletes of the Week.

Flint (a senior WR/DB) recalled practicing for the Class 6 state championship last year and said he is excited to team up with McCaster this season.

Jay Osborne, a leading coach at Greenwood High, previewed one major change for the upcoming Blue & Gold holiday hoops tourney in Springfield & noted his decades of wins during an interview with local sports reporter Chris Neyenhouse.

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.