Good morning, Springfield.

A local group of veterans is asking for a moment of silence at 11:55 a.m. Sunday to honor the 2,403 U.S. service members killed in the Pearl Harbor attack, organized by Ozark Empire Branch 316.

KY3 partnered with the Salvation Army last Friday to ring the bells outside Bass Pro Shops as part of the Red Kettle season (which now accepts digital donations).

Incredible Pizza Company donated $19,028 to Make-A-Wish + Arvest Foundation gifted $10,000 to upgrade the Republic library, while local journeyman Chase Blackburn earned a national Apprentice of the Year award and White River Connect made fast internet available in Kimberling City.

Farmers and gardeners are preparing fields for winter ahead of Dec.

21 as the growing season ends; Dan Bigbee at Fassnight Creek Farm is cleaning up and breaking wood for firewood plus MU Extension advises soil testing and mulching to protect the soil.

Springfield resident Matt Paasch must remove his four front yard toilets by Dec.

13 because they violate city code (the toilets serve as creative planters around a fire pit), leaving him torn about his artistic display.

Springfield Police said it is illegal to drive with Christmas lights on your vehicle unless participating in a parade or parked on private property — the law strictly controls the number, colors and height of the lights.

Amazon-sold INIU brand power banks with black or blue cases and a paw-print LED light are being recalled after 15 reports of overheating and 11 fires burned three people and caused $380,000 in property damage, so customers should stop using them and contact the manufacturer for refund details.

Landon Harper, a Republic offensive lineman, committed to bowl-bound Central Michigan after an official visit to Mount Pleasant on Wednesday night at Bair’s Sports Grill; he said the coach’s message — delivered with a 'Run the Ball' hat — made him feel at home before leaving behind a run-heavy legacy.

Missouri State will face Arkansas State in its first FBS bowl game on Dec.

18 at 8 p.m. CST at the Ford Center in Frisco, Texas; the Bears earned the bid after the bowl season fell short of eligible teams.

Local high school boys basketball teams from Greene County, Nixa and Ozark will begin the 2025-2026 season this month as top talents lead teams into major tournaments at Mizzou Arena (standouts include Chase Branham from Logan-Rogersville and Reese Kimrey from Kickapoo).

The Nixa Eagles play for their first-ever state championship in the Class 6 final today — Carthage and Seneca also compete for titles in a high-stakes football weekend.

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.