Welcome from Joplin. I've lived in Springfield and Mt. Vernon too. I didn't grow up here but I've called this place home for 30 years and feel lucky to be here.
A wet welcome from Oregon. One of my boys played in the Babe Ruth world series in Springfield, MO back in August of '98 or '99. Sounds like that may be your neck of the woods. Fabulous high school baseball field and stadium. The host families were incredibly hospitable. Really nice people.
We thought we'd save some money and drive there from Oregon, but got two whopping speeding tickets on the way . One of life's bad decisions. Anyway, welcome aboard.