[SPRINGFIELD CITY EMPLOYEE NEWS EXTRA ]

August 2021 City reinstates masking requirement for unvaccinated employees, reactivates vaccine incentive program By Jason Gage, City Manager, for the SCENE determined to be eligible Float and Hike In late May, we were hoping to see the COVID-19 upon reviewing each Fridays Aug. 13 & 27: specific circumstance. 5:30-7:30 p.m. virus fade away and not come back in our lifetime; Lake Springfield Boathouse however, the new more contagious delta variant We do anticipate the need for this option for A guided float and hike combined with the community vaccination rate along the James River below 50% has caused a major surge in local virus those that must care for a Water Trail. Launch at Lake cases. Our county is averaging nearly 200 new cases minor child if their child Springfield and paddle to per day, and the hospitals are at overflow capacity has been quarantined the Springfield Conservation with over 260 active patients. 92% of our new cases by their childcare Nature Center for a hike. are individuals that have not been vaccinated. Those provider or school. The Paddle back downstream to detailed protocols and Lake Springfield Boathouse, that have been vaccinated generally have much guidelines are available where we have snacks. Ages milder symptoms. 8-12 yrs. must be in a boat Our organization has lost two employees to this on CityShare. Please take with an adult; ages 13-17 yrs. virus and seen many employees hospitalized. time to review this information. must have parent/guardian The current rise in cases is making more employees You will continue to see an ongoing effort to on the water. Register by sick and starting to affect our ability to deliver encourage vaccination within our organization. the day before – Fee: $30/ I certainly understand the variety of reasons some person, or FREE for all City services. We truly hope never to go back to our employees, courtesy of prior COVID-19 mitigating efforts; however, we are hesitant to get vaccinated; however, medical InBalance. Call 417-833- have a responsibility to keep our organization and science tells us the odds of the COVID-19 vaccines 8647 to register through community safe. As a result, to mitigate the impacts either having a harmful effect or not providing a InBalance. Space is limited. of this new virus surge, the following COVID-19 high level of protection is minuscule compared to the ParkBoard.org/Outdoor. measures went into effect July 26. odds of avoiding serious illness, hospitalization, and First, all employees are again required to wear possibly death if not vaccinated. approved face coverings during work hours and As long as the COVID-19 virus is alive it can under the same guidance that was previously create a more harmful variant. We cannot allow that applied with one exception. Those employees to happen. Please know that I am quite proud of Watercolor USA that can demonstrate to their supervisor they are the ongoing dedication of our Health Department Closes Aug. 29 fully vaccinated will not be required to wear a employees and the effort all of us have made to Springfield Art Museum face covering, though they can do so if they wish. continue to provide quality services to our citizens. The 60th exhibition of Medical science clearly indicates that vaccinated As a public service provider, our mission is to protect Watercolor USA, a national, individuals have a much lower chance of contracting and to serve. It is not to spread disease to each other annual juried exhibition and spreading the disease. or the community. Please always remember this and recognizing aqueous media be safe. painting, closes at the end Second, we will once again offer the City’s of the month. The event vaccination incentive of a $20 gift card and a paid aims to attract the best in day off for any employee that becomes vaccinated by contemporary American the end of September. Those employees vaccinated watermedia and strives to after the termination of the original incentive period exhibit work by artists who are also eligible to receive this incentive. are pushing the boundaries of the medium. sgfmuseum. We will also continue to review requests for org/246/Watercolor-USA. temporary remote work for those employees

Katie Towns named Springfield driver yielding Springfield-Greene rate at crosswalks reaches to play 26th season Act with Compassion: Treat others with kindness County Health Director 55% in November and honesty. 3 5 12 2021 Birthplace of Route 66 Festival canceled due to COVID-19 concerns As a partner in the [SPRINGFIELD CITY Birthplace of Route 66 EMPLOYEE NEWS EXTRA Festival, the City of ] Springfield canceled the EDITOR 2021 Birthplace of Route 66 Cora Scott Festival due to COVID-19 MANAGING EDITOR concerns. The 2021 festival Melissa Haase was planned for Aug. 13-14. DESIGNER A surprise kick-off concert Rebecca Pfitzner that would have been announced for Aug. 12 is also PHOTOGRAPHER Christopher Akins canceled. The festival steering committee COPY EDITORS unanimously decided to host socially Julie Greer Sharon Smith distanced, safe vaccination opportunities in Sharon Spain the festival space Aug. 13-14, 2021 with the hope that we can hold the festival in 2022. The SCENE is published monthly by the City of Springfield, “Obviously, we are very disappointed. 840 Boonville, P.O. Box 8368, After having to cancel the 2020 festival, we Springfield, MO 65801 were so looking forward to 2021,” said Cora [email protected] to Comments and articles which appear in The SCENE do not necessarily reflect the Scott, director of Public Information & Civic request the refund. views or opinions of City administration Engagement for the City of Springfield and Festival vendors should contact Tom Mast or any employee thereof, but are for festival steering committee member. “With information only. Permission to reprint at [email protected] or 417- material may be obtained from the our region’s low vaccination rate against 402-9876. Exhibitors should contact Shirley Department of Public Information, COVID-19, the resulting surge of infections Robbins at 417-773-7714. Musical acts and (417) 864-1010. is overwhelming our hospitals and making motorcycle show vendors and exhibitors our community sick. We feel it is just not safe should contact Laura Dannegger at laurad@ to bring tens of thousands of people from autoinjury.com or 417-889-1400. all over the world to this community for any HOW TO CELEBRATE ROUTE 66 BETWEEN reason.” NOW AND NEXT SUMMER "We think this is the right thing • Explore local sections of Route 66 MISSION to do to protect participants, and support the local restaurants and We are committed to retailers. working with the community to staff, spectators (who come • Experience the Route 66 Food Truck provide ethical and responsible local government so that everyone from all around the world) and Park on St. Louis Street, just west of the can enjoy the benefits of living our community." – Cora Scott Rail Haven Motel on Glenstone. and working in Springfield. • Visit the History Museum on the Square “The 2019 festival’s attendance was 65,000 with its outstanding exhibits, one of Additional City info over two days, and we were projecting to top which is all about Route 66. is available on our Web site at 75,000 this year. We think this is the right www.springfieldmo.gov. • Pay a visit to the Route 66 Car Museum Videos may be viewed on CityView thing to do to protect participants, staff, at College Street and Kansas Expressway. on the Web or on Mediacom spectators (who come from all around the Owner Guy Mace has assembled an channels 15.1 and 80 and AT&T world) and our community. We will again incredible collection and it’s available U-verse channel 99. offer full refunds to those who have already throughout the year in your own registered and paid. We will start fresh with backyard. SCENE Deadline 2022 registrations in the spring of 2022,” she • Check out the public art along Route August 20, 2021 added. 66. Visit sculpturewalkspringfield.org Car and motorcycle show participants, to check out the current Scuplture Walk Please direct your submissions to the Department of Public musical acts, vendors and exhibitors should Springfield collection and print out a map Information. Submissions and of the sculpture locations. have been notified about the cancellation. ads via e-mail are preferred: Car show participants who registered • Take a virtual trip down the Mother [email protected] online with a credit card should log in to Road with the story map created by City the festival’s EventBrite page and request of Springfield Geographic Information a refund. Participants who registered Systems staff. printed on recycled paper with cash or a check should email The annual National Night Out event at Meador Park, scheduled for Aug. 3, has also been canceled for the second year in a row. 2 SCENE Katie Towns named Springfield-Greene Department of Workforce Development launches County Health Director new podcast City Manager Jason mental health and her Gage has formally role in coordinating a The Department of Workforce selected Katie Towns regionwide mental health Development in conjunction with the City as director of health needs assessment for of Springfield launched a new podcast for Springfield-Greene the community resulted series exploring topics related to Workforce County effective in additional resources Development, economic vitality and quality July 18. Towns has and improved care for of place. The first episodes were released served as acting individuals with mental July 27 and will be available on most major director the past five health concerns. podcast platforms. months, following “I fell in love with this Workforce the departure of Clay work because the basis of Vibe is hosted Goddard. She has public health is to make life by Sally Payne, served as operational the best it can be,” Towns interim director lead in responding said. “We do that by creating of Workforce to the COVID-19 a community that is healthy Development pandemic locally, and has provided regional and full of people who have the best quality for the City of consultation and coordination. of life possible. This past year and a half Springfield. "Over the years, Katie has been a highly have been full of strife, but overcoming In addition, skilled leader for the health department. these challenges is how we will learn, grow, community She has also done a terrific job in the and ultimately get better. I moved to this leaders will join Sally each episode to acting director role and carries with her community when I began college, and I’ve discuss what factors play into recruiting the highest level of confidence from our loved it ever since. I am honored to serve and retaining talent in Springfield area community healthcare providers. I am very in this role alongside the greatest team of and beyond. The first two episodes feature excited to name Katie Towns as the next public health professionals you will ever guests Cora Scott and Tim Rosenbury from Springfield-Greene County Director of know. Eventually, we will emerge from this the City of Springfield and Francine Pratt Health,” Gage said. pandemic, and I am sure that we will be from Prosper Springfield. Towns has been with Springfield- stronger than we ever have been before.” “I am thrilled to be hosting the first Greene County Health Department in the Towns’ education includes a master’s podcast produced by the City of Springfield role of assistant director since 2015 and degree in public health and a bachelor’s to engage employers and job seekers on previously served as public information degree in sport medicine/athletic training solutions to the current employment administrator, chronic disease administrator from Missouri State University. She is climate,” said Sally Payne. “By sharing and in a variety of other roles in the a graduate of the Missouri Foundation information and ideas I hope to offer community promoting health and safety. for Health – Health Leadership Fellow suggestions to employers on how to attract She helped lead Springfield’s efforts to program and Leadership Springfield. talent and keep them around once they are hired,” she said. restrict indoor smoking and later to get a Towns is currently a member of the local Tobacco 21 bill passed, which made Missouri Women’s Health Council and has “Each podcast will feature guests it illegal for a retailer to sell any tobacco served on the Missouri State University who bring a unique perspective and can product—including cigarettes, cigars, Master’s of Public Health Advisory Council offer valuable insight into how to make and e-cigarettes—to anyone under 21. and Master’s of Public Health Accreditation Springfield a great place to live and work,” Towns also has a passion for improving Self Study Committee since 2009. Payne added. Connect with the City #MyCitySGF

SCENE 3 City celebrates 35th Construction begins for improvements to anniversary of sister Fire Station 10 in southeast Springfield city relationship Construction began July 12 for improvements to Springfield’s Fire with Isesaki, Japan Station 10 at 2245 E. Galloway St., The City of Springfield marked 35 years which was built in 1979. The newly as a sister city of Isesaki, Japan with a renovated station will be operational virtual ceremony on July 18. by January 2022. Citizens were invited to witness The $644,000 project will include Springfield Mayor Ken McClure and Isesaki renovation of the station’s kitchen, Mayor Yasuo Hiji exchange remarks and dining and living room spaces, acknowledge the cities’ history together. physical fitness areas and sleeping The celebration was broadcast live via quarters. The station’s laundry facebook and is available to watch at areas will also be updated to allow facebook.com/cityofsgf. for the proper inspection, cleaning, drying and storage of turnout gear (firefighter protective clothing). Pennington noted these additional projects in the pipeline for the department: Station 10’s firefighters and apparatus • Work continues to replace Fire Station were relocated to Fire Station 11 at 4940 S. 4 at 2423 N. Delaware, which was Fremont until the renovation is complete. demolished in March. The new, nearly Modifications have been made to adjoining $3 million station will be operational fire station response districts to minimize in spring/early summer 2022. The old Mayor Ken McClure (left) and the impact to response times due to the station, which was built in 1968, had Isesaki Mayor Yasuo Hiji (right) construction, Fire Chief David Pennington long exceeded its usefulness. said. • Demolition and construction to replace “We are so fortunate to have such a Fire Station 7, which was built in supportive community that recognizes 1958 at 2129 E. Sunshine, will begin the ongoing needs of a fire service such in spring 2022 and be operational by as ours,” Pennington said. “These much- 2023. The total budget for the project needed renovations to Station 10 will is just over $3 million. provide this fire station the ability to serve • Construction for the brand-new our community for decades to come.” Fire Station 13 in the 1900 block of The Fire Department continues working West College in the West Central as promised to improve its facilities using neighborhood will begin soon and will funding provided by the continuation of the be complete by summer 2022 at an The sister city relationship between Level Property Tax approved by Springfield estimated construction cost of $2.34 Springfield and Isesaki was established July voters in 2017. million. 18, 1986 when Springfield’s then mayor, The tax generates about $8.5 million a • Construction for the brand-new Fire George Scruggs, traveled to Isesaki to meet year, which is allowing the department to Station 14 at the northeast corner of with Mayor Shimojo to sign the sister city replace and renovate outdated fire stations West Chestnut Expressway and North agreement. and equipment for the first time in decades, Duke Avenue is planned as part of a Since the connection was established, as well as build two brand-new stations 2026 bond package made possible by both cities have participated in over 100 – Fire Stations 13 and 14 – over the next the Level Property Tax. The estimated cultural exchanges including: several years. cost for the project is not yet known. • Home-stay programs, which have included more than 100 Springfield Health Department partners with Fire families. • Children’s art and photography Department to expand COVID-19 testing exchanges between schools and the two The Springfield-Greene County Health office of the Health Department and allow cities’ art museums. Department is partnering with the Springfield for more hours. • Numerous visits involving private Fire Department to expand COVID-19 With the spread of COVID-19 reaching citizens as well as city officials from testing opportunities. As of July 26, Health record levels in Greene County, it is both municipalities. Department staff began testing at Fire Station important to seek testing if you have any • Annual exchanges of performance 8 at 1405 S. Scenic Ave. Free PCR testing, symptoms of COVID-19. Symptoms of groups for city-wide festivals in both by appointment only, is available 7:30-11:30 COVID-19 include: Isesaki and Springfield. a.m. and 1:30-3:30 p.m. Appointments can be • Fever or chills made by calling the COVID-19 Call Center at • Cough 4See SISTER CITIES ANNIVERSARY on page 5 417-874-1211. • Shortness of breath or difficulty This new testing location will replace breathing 4 SCENE testing previously available at the main 4See COVID-19 TESTING AT STATION 8 on page 5 Springfield driver yielding rate at crosswalks 4COVID-19 TESTING AT STATION 8 from page 4 reaches 55% in latest assessments More Springfield drivers are yielding SGF Yields to pedestrians at crosswalks than not, uses a three- according to second quarter crosswalk pronged approach assessments conducted through the City’s involving education, SGF Yields pedestrian safety program. The engineering and recent assessments show driver compliance enforcement in an has risen to an average of 55% across effort to encourage • Fatigue Springfield, an increase of 15 percentage a cultural change in the community and • Muscle or body aches points compared to second quarter 2020. make Springfield more pedestrian friendly. • Headache “Surpassing 50% driver compliance is a The local crosswalk yielding average began • New loss of taste or smell milestone achievement for our community at 25% of drivers yielding when crosswalk • Sore throat because it means that a majority of drivers assessments started in 2017. • Congestion or runny nose • Nausea or vomiting are doing the right thing,”explains Traffic “Surpassing 50% driver Safety Professional Mandy Buettgen- • Diarrhea Quinn. “When more drivers follow the rules compliance is a milestone If you test positive for COVID-19 and obey crosswalk laws, we can expect achievement for our you must begin isolating from others more pedestrians to trust crosswalks and community because it means immediately and notify any close contacts seek them out as a safe and efficient way to of the result. More information on what cross. It’s up to both groups to change their that a majority of drivers are to do if you test positive can be found habits, and we’re seeing it happen.” doing the right thing.” at health.springfieldmo.gov/5251/ The quarterly assessment, performed – Mandy Buettgen-Quinn Quarantine-and-Isolation. by Springfield Public Works Traffic Operations division since 2017, evaluates “The progress is encouraging and shows driver compliance at six crosswalk sites with that our combination of efforts including similar traffic speeds and characteristics. education at schools, modifications to Two locations are studied every quarter crosswalk design, and recent “Yield Check” as a control group. The remaining sites enforcement activities are getting through to people,” says Buettgen-Quinn. “Of are selected from each of the four City 4SISTER CITIES ANNIVERSARY from page 4 course, the goal is for 100% of Council zones. Results from each location • Annual middle and high school drivers to stop each and every time, but we are averaged to produce a snapshot of driver student exchanges with Missouri State realize that this requires a cultural change compliance across the city. University. that will be a much longer-term challenge Study sites for the second quarter of • Springfield has sponsored a program for our community.” 2021 included crosswalks at Campbell that supplies Isesaki with Assistant Avenue at Pershing Street, Bennett Street For more information on crosswalk Language Teachers. at Delaware Avenue, Jefferson Avenue near compliance studies and the City’s efforts • Replacement of Mizumoto Japanese Sunset Street, and Bennett Street at Prince to increase pedestrian safety, follow SGF Stroll Garden trees following Lane along with control group crosswalks Yields on facebook at facebook.com/ Springfield's 2007 ice storm. at Grant Avenue near Talmage Street and sgfyields or visit the program webpage at • Earthquake and tsunami relief efforts Grant Avenue at Calhoun Street. springfieldmo.gov/sgfyields. following storms in 2011. • Other exchanges including teams and study tours. Reminders of the cities’ relationship can be found throughout Springfield. Isesaki assisted in the development of the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden at Nathanael Greene Park which displays the work and guidance of Isesaki gardeners. The Azumaya, located in Friendship Park within City Government Plaza, was also a gift of the City of Isesaki and constructed by their architects. Learn more about the Springfield Sister Cities Association and Springfield’s relationship with Isesaki, Japan and Tlaquepaque, Mexico by visiting peacethroughpeople.org. SCENE 5 Local health departments City begins Phase II of Central Street Corridor expand interactive map Improvements in July of COVID-19 vaccine Construction to continue opportunities to the region “complete street” improvements along the Central Street Corridor To help began in July with the goal to individuals in our provide a system for all modes of community find a transportation in a pedestrian- COVID-19 vaccine heavy area of the City. Official near them, the notice to proceed was issued to Springfield-Greene general contractor D&E Plumbing County Health & Heating and work began July 12. Department and other local public A complete street network is health agencies one that is planned, designed, have expanded the Find a Vaccine map to constructed, operated and cover all southwest Missouri. maintained to service pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and transit The map allows individuals to input their along Central Street from Clay Avenue to riders of all ages to safely and efficiently home or work address to locate the nearest National Avenue, redirecting traffic around travel. The City formally adopted its vaccination site. Users may also filter by Ozarks Technical Community College Complete Streets Policy in 2014. Public vaccine type and clinic setting – whether Campus via Pythian Avenue. The project Works has since worked to include elements it’s a community event, healthcare clinic or installed a roundabout at Central and to accommodate all users in improvement pharmacy. Sherman and included various pedestrian projects including the recent Battlefield facilities. “COVID-19 doesn’t honor the imaginary and Fremont Intersection and Roadway lines we’ve drawn to separate our counties, Widening project and Primrose Street Considering the Phase II portion of so our approach to fighting this pandemic Widening project. Central Street bisects Drury University has to go beyond those lines as well,” said Campus, the City worked closely with the The complete streets effort aligns with Springfield-Greene County Health Director university throughout the project design a consistent call from citizens for a more Katie Towns. “We are pleased to continue process to plan around on-going facility walkable community, heard in citizen our partnership with health departments construction and to ensure it aligns with surveys and throughout the Forward SGF around southwest Missouri to get more Drury’s established master plan. The comprehensive planning process. people vaccinated.” project will incorporate on-street parking, With Phase II of the Central Street Scott Allen, Administrator for the decorative street lighting and a grass- Corridor project, complete streets Webster County Health Unit in Marshfield covered median throughout the extent of improvements will continue along Central added “Since the start of this pandemic, the project. Street between Benton Avenue and Clay the collaboration that we’ve had with our No traffic impacts are expected in the Avenue, including a multi-use path on neighbors has been invaluable.” He went early weeks of construction, as work will the north side of Central and a sidewalk on to say, “Making vaccine opportunities focus mostly on utility replacements. As the on the south side. Intersection and signal available across the region for anyone, project progresses, the public can expect improvements will be made at Central regardless of where they live, is one Central Street to close to through traffic Street and Drury Lane. Underground important piece of the puzzle in ultimately in several segments for multiple months stormwater infrastructure will also be gaining control of this pandemic.” beginning in August/September. The public included as well as the installation of a will be notified as road closure details The map can be found at vaccine417. small rain garden at Central and Clay to become available. com. A video tutorial of the map can help improve water quality. Gas, water, be found at vimeo.com/562909232. A electrical and fiber utilities will be updated “We are coordinating closely with calendar of vaccine opportunities in the within the project boundaries. Drury, OTC and Central High School to region can also be found at vaccine417. try to alleviate major impacts to school “Central Street functions as a vital com. Anyone with questions about how to operations and make sure students, parents east-west connector street in our roadway use the interactive map or a vaccine event and teachers are aware of changes to traffic network and links the community to can contact the COVID-19 Call Center flow,” explains Edelman. “This may cause government services, the Midtown Library at (417) 874-1211 or email coronavirus@ a bit of a headache right at the start of the Branch, City Utilities, Central High School, springfieldmo.gov. school year, but with a little patience, the Drury and OTC,” explains Public Works end product will mean better usability and project manager Nick Edelman. “As we safety for all who travel this corridor.” continue complete streets improvements along this corridor, we’ll be providing safe Phase II is expected to cost $2.1 and equitable transportation to all who need million and will be funded through the 1 to access these services.” /8-cent Transportation Sales Tax with reimbursements from City Utilities for the Phase I of Central Street improvements, utility upgrades. Completion is anticipated the Central-Pythian Corridor Project, by the end of the year. 6 SCENE made complete street improvements Know the signs of heat-related illness City applying for $2M in The Springfield Fire Department CARES Act CDBG funding wants to remind everyone to be prepared for periods of extreme heat as we are to expand homeless and in the midst of the hottest part of the housing services summer season. According to the Federal The City of Springfield plans to apply Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), sip cool fluids. If cramps last more than for up to $2 million of Coronavirus Aid, extreme heat is responsible for more deaths one hour, contact your physician or Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) than any other weather-related hazard. seek medical attention. Act Community Development Block Grant TIPS FOR BEATING THE EXTREME HEAT: HEAT EXHAUSTION (CDBG-CV) funds from the Missouri • Avoid strenuous activities during the • Signs: Heavy sweating, muscle cramps, Department of Economic Development. hottest part of the day (between 10 a.m. dizziness, headache, fatigue, pale CDBG-CV funding must be used for and 4 p.m.) complexion, nausea and vomiting. eligible activities that clearly tie back to the • Wear light-colored clothing. Dark • Actions: Move to a cooler location, prevention, preparation and/or response to clothing will absorb the sun’s rays. remove excess layers of clothing, the COVID-19 pandemic, including priority • Drink plenty of fluids and stay and sip cool fluids. Sports drinks will unmet needs related to community facilities hydrated. replace the needed electrolytes lost and public services. • Never leave people or pets alone through heavy sweating. If signs or In a 2020 survey, Springfield citizens in a closed car. symptoms last more than one hour, identified homeless services, transitional • Check on family members and seek medical attention. housing and homeless shelters as top neighbors. HEAT STROKE priorities among the public service • Know where your local cooling centers • Signs: Hot, red skin with no sweating. categories as part of the public input are located. Body temperature greater than 106 process for the City’s five-year Consolidated Everyone is susceptible to the effects of degrees when taken. Dizziness, Plan to submit to the U.S. Department of heat, but older adults, children and those confusion and unresponsiveness. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) who have chronic medical conditions are • Actions: Call 9-1-1! Heat stroke is a to continue to receive entitlement funding at greater risk of experiencing a heat- life-threatening emergency and needs from the agency. related illness. Below are some signs of to be treated immediately. Use whatever If granted, these funds would enable the heat-related illness, along with some of the means available to cool the person until City to direct up to $2 million to provide recommended actions to prevent further help arrives. essential support to local homeless agencies problems. “Knowing the signs of heat-related illness to address unmet needs. HEAT CRAMPS and how to respond can mean the difference • Signs: Painful muscle pains or cramps between life and death. If you or someone SFD releases Quarterly in the arms, legs or abdomen. you know is experiencing a heat-related • Actions: Move to a cooler location, emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately,” said Fire Safety Report for the remove excess layers of clothing and Battalion Chief Brian Athen. second quarter of 2021 The Springfield Two saved by working smoke alarm in Fire Department responded to northeast Springfield nearly 2,800 A man and his daughter alarms play a vital role in calls for service were saved by a working reducing injuries and deaths (including 36 smoke alarm July 18 when from a house fire. Smoke structure fires), a fire occurred in their alarms should be installed installed 167 residence near Belview on every level of the home, smoke alarms, Avenue and Rockhurst in each bedroom and outside promoted nine Street. The male occupant each sleeping area. staff members, assisted with COVID-19 vaccine clinics, was awakened by the Only high-quality, listed participated in rare and valuable training alarm and saw fire along extension cords should be opportunities and saw progress on a project one wall of his bedroom. used in the home. Extension cords should to rebuild Fire Station 4 on East Kearney – He and his daughter were both able to not be covered with household goods all during the second quarter of 2021. evacuate safely. He was treated for minor that can hold heat and eventually cause smoke inhalation. combustion. Read about all of this and more in the Quarterly Fire Safety Report available at Fire companies from nearby Fire Station 3 The Fire Department offers free smoke springfieldmo.gov/DocumentCenter/ responded within three minutes and quickly alarms and batteries to anyone in need. View/54925/Second-Quarter-2021- contained the fire to the bedroom and If you have questions or need smoke alarms Quarterly-Fire-Safety-Report. extinguished it. The fire investigation or batteries, call the Fire Department at determined the cause of the fire to be misuse 417-874-2300 for assistance or to schedule of an extension cord. an appointment for a free smoke alarm Properly installed and maintained smoke check or installation. SCENE 7 Battlefield Mall hosts Springfield Art Museum announces Cookies with Rookies summer 2021 focus exhibitions July 16 The Springfield Art Museum is pleased Bonniebrook, her homestead located in The community was invited to Battlefield to present three focus exhibitions during Walnut Shade and passed away Mall on July 16 to meet the recruits of the summer of 2021, all opened July 17. in Springfield in 1944. the 74th Springfield Police Academy for These focus exhibitions feature a range of Cookies with Rookies. themes and artists with local, regional, and JACQUES CALLOT: VARIE FIGURE The goal of Cookies with Rookies is international interest. This special exhibition features work to bring police officers and community in the series Varie Figure, or Various members together and give citizens an Figures (1621-1628) by the pre-eminent opportunity to get to know the future French printmaker Jacques Callot. Callot Springfield Police Officers. is considered one of the most accomplished printmakers in the Western tradition. The event featured complimentary He was a keen observer of life and was one cookies from Chick-fil-A and dessert pizza of the first artists to introduce the average from Pizza Ranch. Goodie bags were given person, or non-nobility, into his work. to the first 25 children under the age of 10. The series contains 16 works pulled from the museum's permanent collection. It has been suggested that this series served as a ROSE O’NEILL AND THE KEWPIE drawing book or model for learning rapid, COMICS freehand drawing. The Kewpie doll was a much beloved elf-child created by illustrator Rose O'Neill. SHAPE, FORM, AND COLOR The Kewpie was introduced to the world in This special exhibition explores three December 1909, in a cartoon published in of the seven “elements of art” which outline the Ladies' Home Journal. From December the fundamental components of an artwork: 1917 to July 1918, O'Neill produced a Shape, Form, and Color, with a collection of Kewpie comic strip for Sunday newspapers, 19 works including a painting by Deborah distributed by the McClure Syndicate. Weisel, the founder of the Springfield Art These comics reprised stories already Museum. This exhibition is the seventh featured in Woman’s Home Companion. in a series, focusing on various artists, Through the syndicate, the comic was styles, and trends pulled exclusively from published in newspapers across the country. the museum's outstanding collection of This exhibition features 15 hand-colored contemporary American watermedia. proofs from the Sunday comic series, as This exhibit was guest curated by well as an additional three proofs from Exhibitions Manager Cindy Quayle. the more modern format Kewpie comic See all three focus exhibitions in our strip, published in the 1930s. These Eldredge, Spratlen, and Armstrong works are pulled from the museum’s Galleries through Oct. 31. Financial permanent collection and were gifted to assistance for these projects has been the museum in 2018 by the O’Neill Family provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a Foundation. Twelve of these works were state agency. The Springfield Art Museum conserved with funds raised by a museum is located at 1111 E. Brookside Dr. signature fundraising event, The 99 Times Admission is always free. Donations are (99x) Party in 2019. O’Neill retired to gratefully accepted. Local artist paints mural at Springfield-Branson National Airport Local artist Andrea Ehrhardt brightened up the space at the Springfield-Branson National Airport known as the "meeter- greeter area" in June and July with a Springfield-themed mural. The meeter-greeter area is the part of the airport where people meet passengers coming off the planes. Ehrhardt has done work all over businesses and community centers. Be sure Springfield including in downtown, on to check out her work next time you're at 8 SCENE Commercial Street and for several local the airport. and a campfire. Bring the whole family and food to cook over the open fire! Bring your own bait and gear, limited fishing pole rentals available. Space is limited and registration is required. ParkBoard.org/ FarmPark. Fee: $5/participant, Current and Upcoming Upcoming Events $5/equipment rental. GARDEN STORY TIME: Exhibitions FUN FREE HIKE: NATURE NIGHT HIKE Thurs., Aug. 19 and Sat., Aug. 21: 10-11 a.m. WATERCOLOR USA: WITH BAT FLIGHT Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center CLOSES AUG. 29 Fri., Aug. 6: 7:30-9 p.m., Sequiota Park Pre-schoolers and family are invited to This is the 60th exhibition of Watercolor Hike the trail at Sequiota Park and learn listen to a garden-themed story followed by USA, a national, annual juried exhibition about the park, the cave and the bats that a fun environmental-based craft or activity. recognizing aqueous media painting. live inside, with the opportunity to view All ages, free admission, no registration The event is open to artists from all 50 a twilight bat flight. You don't have to be required. ParkBoard.org/Botanical. outdoorsy to enjoy this hike, just show up states and U.S. territories and judged for a ready to have fun. Meet in the main parking TIMMONS HALL BROWN BAG LUNCH variety of prizes and possible purchase by SERIES: Sat., Aug. 21 and Sat., Oct. 16: lot. Ages 4 yrs. and up. No registration the museum. Learn more at sgfmuseum. 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m., Timmons Hall org/246/Watercolor-USA. required. Free. ParkBoard.org/Outdoor. The Brown Bag Lunch Series honors 17TH ANNUAL KID'ATHLON: local, regional and national history makers JACQUES CALLOT: VARIE FIGURE: Sat., Aug. 7: 8 a.m.-Noon, through the topics of education, agency, THROUGH OCT. 31 (SPRATIEN GALLERY) Chesterfield Park and Family Center entrepreneurship and reconciliation. Each Jacques Callot is considered one of the Kids swim, bike, and run their way to series features a brief spotlight on a history most accomplished printmakers in the victory, taking home medals, t-shirts, maker, opening up a wider conversation. Western tradition. He was a keen observer goodies and the pride of finishing a Registration required by two days before, of life and was one of the first artists to triathlon! Event distances are customized and don't forgot to bring your lunch! introduce the average person, or non- per age group. Registration required by Aug. 21 topic: Entrepreneurs, Mrs. Alberta nobility, into his work. This exhibition Wed., Aug. 4. Ages 5-12 yrs. Fee: $35/child, Ellis. Fee: $5. ParkBoard.org/Timmons. features work in the series Varie Figure, or $25/additional child from same household. Various Figures pulled from the museum's ParkBoard.org/Kidathlon. permanent collection. Learn more about GIBONEY CAVE TOURS: this exhibition at sgfmuseum.org/255/ Sat., Aug. 7: 1 p.m., 2 p.m., & 3 p.m., Jacques-Callot-Varie-Figure. Giboney Cave at Doling Park Explore the myths, facts, and history of SHAPE, FORM, AND COLOR: Giboney Cave at Doling Park. Shoes will get THROUGH OCT. 31 (ARMSTRONG GALLERY) muddy on Walking Tours. Dates are subject This exhibit will explore three of the to weather and bat activity. Pre-register or seven essential elements of art which outline sign up in person at Giboney Cave on tour the fundamental components of an artwork. day. Ages 5 yrs. and up. Fee: $5/Person, CURRENT RIVER OVERNIGHT These include color, line, shape, form, $16/Family of 4. ParkBoard.org/Outdoor. PADDLE TRIP PART 2 value, texture, and space. We often judge Sat. & Sun., Aug. 28-29: Sat., 9 a.m.-Sun., 6 p.m. an artwork by how effectively the artist STORYWALK: A FROG IN THE BOG Paddle the scenic Current River, Pulltite uses these elements. This is the seventh in Aug. 10-28: Sunrise-Sunset, Nathanael Access to Jerk Tail Access. Enjoy 22 miles of a series of exhibitions focusing on various Greene/Close Memorial Park some of the most pristine spring-fed national artists, styles, and trends, pulled exclusively Discover pages of an illustrated riverway in the Midwest. Transportation from the Springfield Art Museum's book, as you walk along a path in the and boat included. Major camping gear outstanding collection of contemporary park. Presented in partnership with available for rent. Suggested gear and meal American watermedia. Learn more about the Springfield-Greene County Library planning available. Register by Aug. 26. this exhibition at sgfmuseum.org/259/ District. Free. Ages 12 yrs. and up (12-17 yrs. with an Shape-Form-and-Color. FAMILY FISHING NIGHT: adult). Fee: $65/Person or FREE for all Fri., Aug. 13: 6-9 p.m., City employees, courtesy of InBalance. ROSE O'NEILL AND Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park Call 417-833-8647 to register through THE KEWPIE COMICS: A relaxing evening of catch-and-release InBalance. Space is limited. ParkBoard. THROUGH OCT. 31 (ELDREDGE GALLERY) fishing, plus the Cow Train, bounce house org/Outdoor. This exhibition features 15 hand-colored proofs from the Sunday comic series, as well as an additional three proofs from the more modern format Kewpie comic strip, published in the 1930s. These works are pulled from the museum's permanent collection. Learn more at sgfmuseum. org/257/Rose-ONeill-and-the-Kewpie- Comics.

Family Fishing Night at Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park July 16 SCENE 9 Vaccine opportunities To view a complete calendar of public Follow the GOLDEN GOOSE events in Springfield/Greene County, visit vaccine417.com. If you need help making To: Kristen Milam, PIO an appointment, call the Springfield-Greene I presented the Golden Goose Award to County Health Department’s call center at Kristen Milam in PIO. Anytime I’ve had 417-874-1211. The City has reinstated the incentive to prepare a presentation to City Council program for getting vaccinated through or speak with the media, Kristen is there Sept. 30. Please email a photo of to lend a helping hand. Numerous times your vaccination card to compliance@ springfieldmo.gov to receive a $20 gift card she’s edited my presentations to make and a day off. Employees who receive the them more professional looking, and she two-shot series will receive the gift card will sit in on dry runs and offer valuable after they receive their first shot and the day off after they receive their second. constructive feedback. It’s a pleasure MO VIP INCENTIVE PROGRAM working with her. Another incentive for getting vaccinated – Chris Dunnaway, PW is the new MO VIP state vaccination incentive program, which will award 900 Missouri residents with either $10,000 Ozark Greenways issues Trailblazer Challenge cash or $10,000 toward an education The Trailblazer at [email protected]. savings account. Learn more and enter at Trail Challenge And of course, leave the sign to be found covidvaccine.mo.gov/win. is designed to by the next trail challenge participant. get you outside Participants who find all 13 signs during Free COVID-19 testing solo, or with the event can win fun OG swag and the available for City employees your friends and Trailblazer Award. family, to explore City of Springfield employees and WHEN CAN WE TAKE THE TRAIL CHALLENGE? our wonderful families are eligible for free COVID-19 The Trailblazer Trail Challenge is from local trails. Ozark testing through the Springfield-Greene May 15 - Sept. 15. Make sure to share your Greenways staff County Health Department. Those eligible photos by Wednesday, Sept. 15. temporarily installed special signs along for testing must be identified as close thirteen local trails. While the signs are up, WHICH TRAILS ARE INCLUDED IN THE TRAIL contacts of a positive individual OR be we invite everyone to visit the trails and CHALLENGE? experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. try and find the signs. Along the way we • Wilson's Creek Greenway Trail For questions or scheduling, call 417- hope you have a chance to see new places • Fassnight Creek Greenway Trail 874-1211 and press Option 2. Please and make positive memories. The signs • Frisco Highline Trail identify yourself as a City employee and stay in place for the specified dates then are • Fulbright Spring Greenway Trail be prepared to share the dates of birth removed to be placed in new and different • Galloway Creek Greenway Trail for the individuals you would like tested. locations for the next challenge. • James River Greenway Trail The Springfield-Greene County Health • Jordan Creek Greenway Trail Department utilizes PCR testing collected HOW DO YOU TAKE THE TRAIL CHALLENGE? • South Creek Greenway Trail via throat swab. Results are generally Anyone is allowed to participate in the • Trail of Tears Greenway Trail available within 24-48 hours. search. When you find a sign, prove you • Ward Branch Greenway Trail made it by taking a “selfie” photo with the • Sac River Mtn. Bike Trails Health Department sign and posting it on social media with the • TrailSpring's Dirt 66 Trails offering shingles vaccine hashtag "#ozarkgreenways" or email your at Fellows Lake photos to the OG Office Manager, Susan, • Fellows Lake Nature Trail. to those 60+ in Greene County The Shingrix shingles vaccine is available for anyone in Greene County over the age of 60. Shingrix is a series of two vaccines. The second vaccine is administered two to six months after the first one. Please call the Health Department at 417-864- 1683 to schedule yours. If you have had the Zostavax vaccine for shingles, you are encouraged to get this new vaccine. 10 SCENE Do You Know...? A Q&A of City of Springfield employees. To suggest a colleague for “Do You Know...?” e-mail [email protected].

Employees helping employees. Donations are not tax deductible. Matt Coats City employees are often the first to step Payroll Deductions: Superintendent of Special Facilities, forward to help their fellow co-workers in A voluntary donation can be set up times of crisis. The Employee Crisis Fund directly from your paycheck. Parks provides an avenue for employees to Visit the Employee Crisis Fund tab on Matt has worked for the City for 20 years. give to other employees in need, and for CityShare to complete the payroll those in need to seek assistance. deduction form. HOW TO APPLY APPLY Donate Directly: Donations may be sent An eligible employee or his/her designee to the Finance Department, must complete an Employee Crisis Fund Attn: Nikki Crisp. Program Application and submit it to the The Finance Department is located in Crisis Fund Administrator. the lower level of the Busch Municipal For more information or to obtain an Building, 840 Boonville. application, email: employeecrisis@ Make checks payable to: springfieldmo.gov City of Springfield Employee Crisis Fund.

What have you learned since working at the City? I have learned a lot over the last 20 years working for the City, so it is hard to choose just one. The one that comes to mind is just how much goes on behind the scenes to make a city run smoothly. Every City employee is helping make the City run no matter what department you work for. How does your position impact the community? My position impacts the community in many ways. A few examples would be working with staff at Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park where children learn about how a farm operates, the Equestrian Center where patrons learn how to ride a horse or helping with increasing the native habitat at Lake Thanks for the Spirit Day selfies! Springfield for patrons to enjoy many different species of wildlife. Employees are encouraged to wear their spirit shirts on the first Friday of each month If you could switch your job with anyone else, whose would you want? I would not want to and to send their Spirit Day selfies to switch my job with anyone in the City! I get to [email protected]! work every day in a park enjoying the outdoors, and I have ocean-front property with my office at There will no longer be a prize drawing each Lake Springfield. Not to mention I get to work month, but we will continue to include the selfies with an amazing Special Facility staff, and I have you send us in each issue of the Scene. an amazing boss! The only other job I would like would be a professional player. Send your selfies our way Fridays, Aug. 6 & Sept. 3 SCENE 11 MILESTONES Springfield Lasers to play 26th season in November Promotions The two-time World Champion Springfield Lasers are gearing up for their Morgan Blankenship 26th season of World TeamTennis – but Buyer I not in July, and not in Springfield. – Finance Earlier this year, World TeamTennis (WTT) announced that in order to safely Andrew Flippin host as many spectators as possible, the 2021 season will take place Nov. 13-28 on appeared in quarterfinals at Cincinnati in Principal Engineer location in Indian Wells, California. 2020, and Doha, Dubai and Rome this year. – Public Works After 24 seasons of calling Cooper American Mackenzie “Mackie” McDonald Complex their home court, the Lasers joins the Lasers roster, making his first Amanda Jones – along with WTT’s other eight teams – WTT appearance since 2018. McDonald, Office Administrator played the entire WTT 2020 season on 26, reached the fourth round at Wimbledon – Fire location at The Greenbrier Resort in West in 2018 and in the 2021 Australian Open, in Virginia. Through frequent COVID-19 addition to being a semifinalist in the 2018 testing and limited contact with visitors, Delray Beach Open. He reached his career- J.B. Lilley WTT was one of the first professional high rank of No. 57 in 2019. The Piedmont, Battalion Chief sports to establish “the bubble” and return California, native was a three-time Singles – Fire to play during the pandemic summer. Lasers All-American at UCLA, earning the 2016 fans were among more than a million ITA National Men’s College Player of the Jubal Nash viewers who enjoyed live matches on TV Year and collected both the singles and Fire Lieutenant and streaming from the comfort of home. doubles NCAA National Championships in This year, Lasers fans may once again that same year. – Fire watch from home, or travel to see the Coach John-Laffnie “JL” de Jager returns Lasers play in person at the Indian Wells for his 15th season coaching the Lasers, James Nixdorf Tennis Garden, home of one of the largest having served with the team since 2007. Maintenance Worker tennis tournaments in the world, the BNP Elsewhere in the league: – Public Works Paribas Open. Due to requirements set by • Coco Vandeweghe, , Mike the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, all fans Bryan and Taylor Fritz will play with in attendance will need valid proof of full the . vaccination to enter. A complete schedule • , Jennifer Brady Retirements of matches is available at wtt.com/ and John Isner have signed with the schedule/. . Kenneth Browning “With the uncertainty of player travel and • Francie Tiafoe and safety due to COVID-19, combined with the will appear with the Smash. Police Sergeant Summer Olympics starting a few days earlier • Kim Clijsters and Jack Sock will play – Police, 19 years than usual, it made sense to us to postpone with the . the season to later in the year,” said Paul Due to the revised format and the Sheri Davis Nahon, General Manager of the Springfield inability to host home matches this year, Community Recreation Lasers. “But the international tennis tour the , , calendar doesn’t really open up until Orlando Storm and Coordinator November. And by that time of year, most will not participate in the 2021 WTT – Parks, 22 years outdoor stadiums aren’t ideal — including season. These franchises remain in good Springfield. So we’ll play another season on standing with the league and WTT John Langley location, and we’ll do everything we can to anticipates these teams to be back on the Equipment Technician bring the Lasers back home for 2022.” schedule in 2022. – Public Works, 19 years This year’s Lasers roster includes The Springfield Lasers were established American Jessica Pegula, age 27, returning in 1996 by the late Harry Cooper. The for her second season of WTT, previously team is managed by the Springfield-Greene with the Orlando Storm. Currently ranked County Park Board, and is now one of No. 27 in women’s singles and No. 52 in the oldest teams in the WTT league. women’s doubles, Pegula made it to the The Lasers won back-to-back WTT Round of 16 at Wimbledon this summer, Championships in 2018 and 2019, after five and the quarterfinals at the French Open previous trips to the WTT finals. and the Olympics, all in doubles. She For more information follow @SGFLasers reached the quarterfinals in singles at the on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, or 12 SCENE Australian Open in February. She has also visit SpringfieldLasers.com. Mandatory Changes in New CityGear travel mugs 10-digit dialing on the now available way plus new 988 The new CityGear Travel Mugs are now Starting in October, anyone available for purchase in the Department with the area code 314, 417, of Public Information (Room 428) or by 660, or 816 will soon need contacting Sharon Spain at 417-864-1105. to dial all 10 digits when • 20 oz. Stainless Steel making any calls. This • Double Wall Vacuum change is happening in a • Copper Lined Insulation phased approach. The phases • Sweat Free Design apply to all phones in area codes 314, 417, • Screw-on Lid 660, and 816. Color choices are: Phase One began in April. Everyone is • Black with silver imprint able to dial both 10 digits and 7 digits for • Blue with silver imprint all calls. During this time, it is suggested The new travel mugs are $12 each. to get in the habit of dialing with 10 digits. For example, if you were to call Kristine Duncan's office during this time, you can dial 864-1566 or 417-864-1566. If you are calling her from a City Mitel phone, you can call her extension 41566. During phase one, departments that If you would like to submit an ad please have any equipment that are programmed email [email protected]. If you to dial 7 digits will need to update the would like an ad to run for a certain length of time please let us know; otherwise ads will programming to 10 digits. If you have speed run for three months before being removed. dials programmed on your phone or dialer, Ads must be received by Aug. 20 to appear in you will need to update those numbers to the September issue. use 10 digits. FOR SALE If you were to dial a long distance number, you would dial that number the Margaritaville Outdoor same as you do now, for example 1-313-123- Wall Art Retail ​Value 1234 or 1-800-123-1234 (800 numbers). $79.99. New, never opened Nothing is changing for long distance or used. Can be used calling. for indoor or outdoor decoration. 100% Pine. Precious Moments Dolls. Stored in trunk Phase Two begins Oct. 24, at which time Durable Sherwin Williams and in mint condition. Patti (in original box you will only be able to make calls dialing painted finish. Stainless w/o goose) - Issued 1988 (Pink dress w/ with 10 digits. After this date, if you want to white pinafore), 16" tall; Tiffany - Issued steel hanging hardware. 28" w x 25" h. call Kristine Duncan you would need to dial $40 OBO. Call or text Marcia 417-379-8459 1990 (Pink Dress w/green ribbon & straw bonnet), 16" tall; Amy - Rare Vintage 417-864-1566. If you are calling her from a City Mitel phone, you can call her extension Z-VOX Z-Base 555 Home Theater Limited Edition, Issued 1991 (Lavender 41566. If you were to dial 864-1566 your Soundbar. Great deal! Excellent condition print dress, pink flower bouquet & cloth and awesome sound. Home theater made bonnet), 15" tall; Royal Blue Plaid Rags, call would fail to be connected. simple. Includes Z-VOX sound system, 8" tall; Never Have to Pretend w/stand Phase Three begins July 16, 2022. You & clown mask, 12" tall. All 5 sold as set remote control, owner's guide, AC cord, will be able to dial 988 (similar to 911 Analog signal cable (RCA to RCA plugs & for $185 OBO or sold separately, Tiffany $50 OBO, Amy $100 OBO, Patti $50 OBO, dialing). This is a new 3 digit number that optical connection cord). $75 OBO. Call or you can dial to reach the National Suicide text Marcia 417-379-8459 Royal Blue Paid Rags $5 OBO, and Never have to Pretend $10 OBO. Call or text Prevention Lifeline. This new number will Marcia 417-379-8459. work from any City phone as well. From our Mitel Phone System – you will Bradley's still need to dial a 9 to get an outside line. Collectible Clown Doll. Purple clown Also as a reminder, if you accidentally china doll. Stored dial 911 (it’s possible with these new dialing in trunk and still changes) – don’t worry – just remain on in original plastic the line and let the operator know that you and box. Mint accidentally dialed 911 and that there is condition. no emergency. Doing this is a huge time $10 OBO. Call or saver for those text Marcia 417- that work in that 379-8459 department. SCENE 13 Working with the Community ( Awards & Recognition

To: Lucinda Hodges, 9-1-1 Lead Chief Paul Williams, Police, has been Telecommunicator appointed to the Task Force on Criminal On June 27, a call was put in regarding Justice by the Supreme Court of Missouri. an alarm going off at a residential location. The alarm company later called in to thank Major Tad Peters, Police, has been 9-1-1 Telecommunicator Lucinda Hodges appointed to the Commission on Racial for the quick, professional and personal Ethnic Fairness-Municipal/Traffic Justice attention to the situation. Excellent job, System Subcommittee by the Supreme Lucinda! Fire Captain Rescue Specialist Court of Missouri. Darin Miller Drew Rues Dawne Gardner, Transportation To: Lucinda Hodges, Tracy Whipple, Planner, Public Works, has been asked by Jill Evert, Logan Voss, Josh Bone, the Federal Highway Administration to Mariah Grant, Stephen Murkerson, give a presentation for their webinar series Brad Geiger, Emily Drake, Courtney explaining how Springfield is implementing Jauregui, Mary Hafar and Brieannia its ADA Transition Plan. The FHWA has Alexander-Springfield-Greene County heard Springfield’s plan is successful and 9-1-1 Emergency Communications contacted Dawne with this presentation Telecommunicators and Lead opportunity. Telecommunicators Fire Captain Rescue Specialist On June 27, Strafford Officer 1307 was Thomas Shaw Geoff Hammer struck by a passing vehicle while waiting Fire Captain Darin Miller was named on a tow truck to remove a disabled vehicle. SFD 2020 Fire Officer of the Year in June. Once the Officer returned to work, he called in to thank all who were working that call. Rescue Specialist Drew Rues was named He said, “I respect and value everything you SFD 2020 Firefighter of the Year in June. all do for us. Thank you again.” Excellent job everyone! Fire Captain Thomas Shaw was named SFD 2020 Fire Instructor of the Year and CONGRATULATIONS: received the 2020 Fire Chiefs Award for Excellence in June. Deputy City Manager Collin Quigley was awarded the Missouri City Rescue Specialist Geoff Hammer was Management Association Richard R. Noll named the SFD 2020 Fire Educator of the Outstanding Assistant Award. This award Year in June. was presented at the June 28 City Council meeting by Roger Haynes, President of Gray Windbigler, Computer Technician, the Missouri City/County Management and Keith Thomas, Computer Support Association. Assistant, Information Systems, passed their A+ certification. These are Mike Wurst, Systems Administrator, significant certifications for our IS staff. Emergency Communications, has been A+ certification is earned by passing a set selected by APCO International to serve on of two exams – created by IT industry both the Cybersecurity and Spectrum and professionals. A+ is not just about PC Technology national committees. repair. A+ candidates are better prepared to troubleshoot, and problem solve a wider Fire Chief David Pennington, Fire, variety of issues, ranging from networking has been reappointed to the International and operating systems to mobile devices Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and security. Constitution, Bylaws, and Resolution (CBR) Committee. Sgt. Matt Farmer, Police, has been selected as one of Springfield Business Journal’s Men of the Year for 2021. The recognition event is scheduled for Aug. 19 and will be held at the White River 14 SCENE Conference Center.