Good morning, Springfield.

The New Life Veterans Coming Home center hosted a Christmas celebration Tuesday to serve hot meals, gifts, and hygiene items to homeless individuals.

Local partners provided essential donations, including sleeping bags and backpacks, to support those in need.

Animal advocates held a candlelight vigil to raise awareness about animal cruelty and honor abused pets (dogs and cats) on Tuesday night.

Rescue One organized the event after rescuing three puppies from a yard where six dead dogs were found, urging residents to report signs of neglect.

A Rogersville animal rescue founder said overcrowding at Ozarks pet shelters is a major challenge as rising dog and cat numbers strain local resources.

KY3’s Leigh Moody (on the show) discussed proposals to slow pet population growth and ease pressure on rescue organizations.

Reader Gary Whitaker wondered why only Avenue B exists in northeast Springfield—Public Works records show no Avenue A or C and local business owners confirm that the layout remains unchanged; his Answer Man column highlights how the street splits among neighborhoods.

The Springfield Business Journal will acquire The Daily Events, with the sale becoming final on Jan.

1. Mayor Jeff Schrag, who has owned the paper for 30 years, said the move will allow him to focus on his mayoral duties.

Piccolo restaurant in Nixa reopened Tuesday night after a car crash forced a six-month shutdown that damaged part of its kitchen and office space.

Owner Steve D’Arpino said to-go orders are available now with a full reopening set for New Year’s Eve — a fresh start that shows community support.

The Sunshine Street Bridge replacement, which began in August, is now set to complete in the second week of January instead of reopening around Christmas, blocking the key route from Scenic Avenue to Kansas Expressway as crews replace the 60-year-old bridge (improving pedestrian access).

The City of Springfield is gathering neighborhood improvement ideas for its expanded Neighborhood Works+ program with $5 million from a Spring Forward SGF sales tax allocation.

Residents can submit ideas online or at Busch Municipal Building by Jan. 31, and selected projects will begin construction in fall 2026.

Local counselor Wanda Quintana from Burrell Behavioral Health said gambling addiction can be hard to spot and may slowly impact work, home life, and relationships.

She urges anyone noticing changes to seek help through options like setting weekly limits or calling available resources (1-888-BETSOFF).

Flu cases in Springfield increased by 3.1 percent last week as families and students gather during the holiday season.

Health officials advise using good hygiene and getting a flu shot to protect high-risk populations.

Chris Neyenhouse interviewed Kickapoo High School girls’ basketball head coach Leslie Hanchey about the team's rich legacy and plans for the new season in Springfield; the conversation was published yesterday.

Family members of Missouri State football players traveled to Frisco, Texas, with many arriving today to support their loved ones in the Xbox Bowl.

Some players warmed up by tossing the football with local kids (boosting team spirit) as anticipation grows for the game.

Keith Palek III scored a game-winning tip-in that lifted Missouri State to a 63 to 62 win over Oral Roberts on Dec.

16 at Great Southern Bank Arena, breaking a two-game losing streak. He finished with 27 points and strong rebounds to boost the team.

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.