Baird Bridge raised at YMCA Camp Wakonda
YMCA’s Camp Wakonda celebrated a milestone Dec. 2 with the erection of the new Baird Bridge across Goose Creek. The 104-foot truss bridge is a crucial addition to the camp, which saw eight bridges washed away by the raging waters of Goose Creek.
The Baird Bridge is designed to withstand the elements and provide a safe crossing for the youth of Camp Wakonda. The bridge was erected by volunteers working alongside Carson-Mitchell, with support from Miller Engineering and Conco. A group of alumni campers dating back to the 1950s, the Ybee’s, contributed by painting and preparing the bridge.
“We are thrilled to see this project come to life,” said Camp Director Myra Cassady in a release.“The Baird Bridge will not only enhance safety for our campers but also serve as a lasting reminder of the commitment our community has to ensuring that future generations can enjoy Camp Wakonda.”
Custer promoted at Guaranty Bank
Guaranty Bank announced that Devin Custer has been promoted to commercial banking officer.
Custer, who has been with Guaranty Bank for more than four years, previously served as an associate relationship manager II. Custer has demonstrated exceptional expertise and commitment to his role, the bank said in a release. Custer is a Drury University alumnus, where he studied business administration and management. He also is an active member of the Springfield Rotaract and has contributed his time in various local nonprofit fundraisers.
Prelude Capital acquires The Crossings at East Cherry
Prelude Capital Management, LLC of St. Louis, a global asset manager with current allocations in excess of $5 billion, announced it has purchased a recently-completed residential complex in Springfield.
The St. Louis company purchased The Crossings at East Cherry, a deluxe 216-home building completed in 2023 that offers high-end touches such as a residents’ pool and gym, as well as pet-friendly amenities like dedicated dog-runs and access to an adjacent pet-centric green space.
CU, iHeart Radio and OACAC partner for SHARE the Light
City Utilities, iHeart Radio, and Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation (OACAC) are again partnering for SHARE the Light, a one-day event to raise awareness and funding for families in need of utility assistance during the winter months.
This year marks the 9th year for SHARE the Light and the 41st year for Project SHARE, which has provided winter utility bill assistance to an estimated 20,000 households since it began, according to Tommie Trammell, LIHEAP director at OACAC. “We’re thankful to live in such a caring community with neighbors who want to provide help for those less fortunate.”
This year’s event is being held Dec. 14, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Battlefield Mall parking lot just north of Macys, where for a $10 donation to “SHARE the Light” you’ll receive a red and green LED light bulb. Donations can also be made online at cityutilities.net or by sending a check payable to Project SHARE, to City Utilities, PO Box 551, Springfield, MO 65801. For more information visit the Share the Light or Project SHARE websites, or to discuss a donation to Project SHARE, visit with customer representatives by calling 417-831-8900.
SPD sergeant graduates from command course
The Springfield Police Department’s Sgt. Brandon Keene graduated Nov. 22 from the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command (SPSC), a 10-week course hosted at the Missouri State Highway Patrol Academy.
The course is an intensive leadership and management education program that helps prepare experienced law enforcement professionals for success in senior command positions. Through an innovative combination of academic principles with practical applications, curriculum focuses on critical command-level content including planning and policies, media relations, organizational behavior, budgeting, resource allocation, and more.
“Continuing education for department staff, officers, and commanders is a cornerstone of effectively serving our community,” Police Chief Paul Williams said in a release. “Sgt. Keene’s dedication to leadership and excellence in law enforcement will make a lasting impact in Springfield.”