44 Years of Heat: Springfield’s Favorite Chili Tradition
Every year in the Ozarks, there’s one event that brings the heat 🌶️🔥 literally and figuratively, and the 44th Annual Sertoma Chili Cook-Off proved once again why it’s one of the most beloved traditions in Springfield.
When you think of the Sertoma Chili Cook-Off, you think of friends, family, community… and all the chili you can eat. Rows of teams serving up their best secret recipes. Booths decked out with wild decorations. Friendly competition. Live music filling the air. And yes, even a Sasquatch sighting wandering through the crowd. But while it’s easily one of Springfield’s most fun (and tastiest) events of the year, it’s also one of the most meaningful.
The annual cook-off benefits the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield, helping provide after-school programs, mentorship, and opportunities for local kids right here in our community. Every cup of chili served helps support something bigger than just bragging rights, it helps build futures.
All of us at Midwest Family Broadcasting had an absolute blast being part of the day, enjoying the music, hanging with listeners, and helping bring the party atmosphere to the Expo Center. From the creative team themes to the endless samples of chili (seriously, how do they all taste so different?), the energy was unmatched!
Events like this are what make Springfield special. It’s not just about great food, it’s about showing up for each other. Already counting down to year 45. 🌶️🔥
https://youtube.com/shorts/YbtuEP3pAmk?si=xf6zPIm29sSfuz-j
Why It’s Time to Dive Into Bad Omens
If you haven’t yet dived into Bad Omens, now’s the time. This band doesn’t just play music... they craft experiences. Dark, cinematic, and emotionally raw, their sound blends melodic metalcore with touches of alternative rock, industrial textures, and even hints of R&B. Ethereal, ghostly atmospheres hit you one second, then heavy, bone-rattling breakdowns the next. They push the boundaries of genre while staying brutally honest with their emotional expression, no filters, no compromise.
Formed in 2015 in Richmond, Virginia, Bad Omens is led by vocalist Noah Sebastian, guitarist Nicholas Ruffilo, and bassist Vincent Riquier., with a lineup that’s been delivering their signature sound ever since. Fun fact: Noah’s birthday is October 31st, making him a late-fall Scorpio- so yes, some of that intensity and moodiness is totally built in. Plus that also means we’re birthday buddies.. So Extra cool points!!
Fans and critics alike describe them as part of the “new wave” of nu-metal, a modern, moodier evolution that’s as much about feeling as it is about headbanging. Whether you’re in it for the cathartic intensity or the haunting melodies, Bad Omens makes it impossible to hit pause.
Bad Omens will also be making their way through Missouri on their "Do You Feel Love" North American Tour. Heading to the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, MO, on February 26th. For more info on that show and ticket links, CLICK HERE. And of course, we’ll hit on some songs you GOTTA check out. All the tracks and videos will be linked for you below, so you can experience the full spectrum of Bad Omens’ cinematic world. Honestly, I think you’ll find yourself on repeat before you know it.
- “Dethrone” – blew up on TikTok and Instagram last year. Take me to the pearly gates…. Always brings out my girly pop dance moves.
- “Dying to Love” – raw emotion and heavy feels
- “V.A.N.” – great song with Poppy. You know I love my collabs!
Whether you’re new to Bad Omens or a longtime fan, these songs are a perfect snapshot of why this band is impossible to ignore. Crank it up, watch the videos, and let yourself get lost in their world of haunting melodies, heavy breakdowns, and cinematic vibes. Trust me, once you hit play, you’re officially on repeat. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!!
Missouri’s Super Bowl LX Betting Guide
Missouri, the Super Bowl is finally here - and now betting is legal!
Who’s the hot pick: Seahawks or Patriots? We’ve got the expert guide, top prop bets, and the trends you need to know before you lay down a dime. Thanks in BIG part to the VSiN Network, and our sister station, 102.1 The Won.
Seattle might be the crowd favorite, but New England isn’t backing down. Zach Cohen breaks down what makes each team a threat, from powerhouse defenses to playoff stars lighting it up in big moments. Who has the edge? Which bets are worth your attention? And is the total really going Over or Under? All the insights, trends, and expert takes are waiting for you, click through before you place your picks.
Then learn more about Prop Bets. Adam Burke shares four betting strategies that could help you cash your tickets this Super Bowl. Prop bets and parlays are exploding in popularity, and Super Bowl LX is no exception, millions of wagers are being placed every day. From quirky player props to big-ticket parlays, the options are endless. Adam explains how to approach them smartly, what to watch for, and why a little strategy can make a big difference. Don’t place your bets blindly, get the inside scoop before you play.
Finally, see how the numbers break down with Steve Makinen, VSiN Director of Analytics. Makinen takes a deep dive into his Super Bowl LX game simulation, projecting scores, yardage, time of possession, and even individual player output, and he highlights the Top 10 historical Super Bowl betting trends that bettors rely on year after year.
Ready to get the edge before you place your bets? Don’t miss this complete betting guide - Click through now to get expert insight before kickoff!
Valentine’s Day in Springfield
The season of love is here, and let’s be real, if you don’t have a plan, you’re setting yourself up for the dog house. Luckily, Q92.9 did the hard work for you, rounding up the best local Valentine’s events so you can sip, dance, eat, and maybe even flirt your way through Valentine's Day. Whether you’re wooing your sweetie, rolling with your crew, or just here for chaos, we’ve got a little something for everyone.
Bloody Valentine 2026 🩸💃
Friday, February 13th | Doors 8PM | Show 9PM | 18+
From the masterminds behind the Halloween Monster Ball comes a Valentine’s Day experience like no other. Bloody Valentine takes over The Regency Live, and yes, it’s as twisted, dark, and deliciously unhinged as it sounds. Think pulsing lights, seductive shadows, dripping décor, and a crowd ready to dance like they just met Cupid’s evil twin.
Bring your lover, your situationship, your heartbreak, or your wildest friends. Chaos is cute, and love leaves a mark. With special guest NIN3 and drinks flowing, this is Valentine’s Day corrupted. Dress sharp, dive deep, and let your dark side bloom.
Vantage Rooftop Igloos 🌹🥂
February 13–14
Looking for romance with a side of “Wow, this is fancy”? Vantage Rooftop has you. Snag a private igloo, sip sparkling wine, nibble chef’s choice noshes, and build your own bouquet thanks to Flora and Forge. Each reservation is 1 hour and 45 minutes of pure magic, complete with bubbly and house-made truffles. Whether it’s a girls’ night or a couple’s date, this is one Valentine’s experience your Instagram followers will envy.
Big Shots Valentine’s Package ❤️⛳
February 13–15, 2026
For those who like a little friendly competition with their romance, Big Shots delivers. Enjoy a three-course meal (appetizer, entrée or heart-shaped pizza, and dessert) plus 90 minutes of golf in a heated bay. It’s love, laughs, and a little playful rivalry, perfect for couples who swing hard both on and off the course.
Houlihan’s Valentine’s Indulgence ❤️🍴
February 12–15
Who says Valentine’s is just one day? Houlihan’s is serving up three days of indulgence with a 3-course meal for $60 per couple. Start with a bubbly toast, share an appetizer, pick two entrees, and finish with a dessert made for sharing. From char-crusted ahi to heart-shaped delights, this is love you can taste. So grab your sweetie, or just your appetite, either way, it’s going to be delicious.
Masquerade at Metro Grill ✨❤️🔥
Valentine’s Day Night
For those who like their romance shrouded in mystery, Metro Grill’s Masquerade has you. DJ spinning, dimmed lights, cocktails flowing, masks on, intrigue in the air. Single, taken, or just here for the chaos, everyone’s invited to sip, dance, and let the night surprise you. No cover, just unforgettable vibes.
Springfield, there’s no excuse this Valentine’s weekend to be stuck at home scrolling Instagram while everyone else is living their best love lives. Pick your vibe - sweet, spicy, or downright twisted, and go make some memories.
Aggressively Positive & Heavy as Hell
Motionless In White is back with a brand-new release, and it’s already living rent-free in my head. Their latest track, “Afraid of the Dark,” dropped this week and it’s been all over my social feeds. It hits hard, but not just musically. This one feels different in the best way: heavy, hopeful, and unapologetically honest.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jolaO2Z6xCM&list=RDjolaO2Z6xCM&start_radio=1
Scrolling through the YouTube comments, one phrase kept popping up that nailed it perfectly: aggressively positive. It’s very much a “give your dreams 100% or don’t do it at all” kind of message, even if that means stepping straight into the unknown. Deep. Lines like “If the answer is in the unknown / Would you question the path you take?” feel introspective without losing intensity, making it wildly relatable for anyone pushing through uncertainty. What really got longtime fans buzzing is how the band weaves their own history into the song. Listeners have already mapped out lyrical callbacks spanning their entire career, from “A creature that found a home” off Creatures (2010) to “We can’t see the end from the start” from Scoring the End of the World (2022). It’s a subtle but powerful reminder of how far they’ve come, and how intentional this track really is.
And yes, this one’s for the BLEGHS. We’re always on the hunt for the next great one, and I’m calling it now!!!! This might be my favorite of 2026 so far. If you’re watching the video, jump to 3:00… actually, rewind a few seconds back to 2:36 for a breakdown that sets it up perfectly. Then comes the BLEGH that absolutely melts your brain. Fair warning: you’re gonna replay it. A lot. Another Motionless In White song that immediately came to mind is “Voices.” It dives deep into facing your demons, capturing that trapped feeling of a never-ending echo chamber filled with negativity and insecurity. It’s painfully relatable, but also validating, reminding listeners they’re not alone in those struggles. And if you’re in the mood to loud, scream-sing in your car? “Another Life” still hits every single time.
Get ready for the Pineapple Whip Solstice
Lovers of Pineapple Whip rejoice!
The Springfield favorite, Pineapple Whip is back with their 12th Annual Whip Solstice! It was actually supposed to begin today (January 28th), but due to all the snow and potential hazardous road conditions, it's been postponed to Wednesday, February 4th through Sunday February 8th from 12 to 10 every day!
You'll be able to celebrate the solstice at 3850 S. Campbell next to Krispy Kreme. All flavors will be available in pre-frozen pints ON SPECIFIED DAYS ONLY while supplies last (except chocolate).
Get all the latest info on the Pineapple Whip website by CLICKING HERE
On Repeat: Catch Your Breath
This week’s On Repeat pick is coming in HOT, like brand-new music dropped two days ago hot. If you haven’t spent time with Catch Your Breath yet, now is the moment.
Catch Your Breath is an American rock band based in Austin, Texas, formed in 2017. The band features Josh Mowery on vocals, Teddy Herrera on guitar, Cianan Madigan on bass, and Onell Hernandez on drums. They hit the ground running early, releasing their debut single “Burn” the same year they formed. Their real breakthrough came in 2022 with “Dial Tone,” which climbed to #7 on the Billboard Hot Hard Rock chart, and honestly, that was the same year I found them and completely fell in love with their sound.
The Song That Hooked Me: “Dial Tone”
Dial Tone was my entry point. Dark, emotional, heavy in all the right ways, it felt like one of those songs that understands exactly where your head is at without needing to overexplain it. It was raw, it was honest, and it stuck with me immediately.
If you’re new to the band, start here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ATJkdBQL6k
Watching the Growth (and the Airplay)
It’s been incredible watching their growth over the past few years, especially seeing them gain more traction on social media and now hearing them get more airplay since I joined the station. Two other great songs that you should hear from the guys is "Savages” and “21 gun Salute” Right now, they’re currently on tour with Nothing More, Archers, and Doobie on the Carnal Nature World Tour, and they’re showing no signs of slowing down.They’re also slated to hit some massive stages later this year, including Welcome to Rockville in Daytona Beach, Florida, and Sonic Temple , huge milestones that feel incredibly earned.
The First Time I Met Them (and a Night I’ll Never Forget)
My very first interaction with Catch Your Breath actually happened before I ever worked in radio. They were on tour with Falling in Reverse and Slaughter to Prevail, and I was fully prepared to spend the day at the show. I’d even taken the whole day off work. Then the worst news dropped… The show was canceled due to illness in the headlining band.
I reached out to Teddy from Catch Your Breath just to say how bummed I was about the cancellation and how excited I had been for the show. On a whim, I asked if there was any chance they had a replacement venue lined up. To my absolute surprise… THEY DID!
First of all, getting a response directly from the band? That alone says a lot. So I immediately started spreading the word that there was still going to be a show that night. And if you’ve never experienced a show at The Outland in Springfield… let me paint the picture. A long, tight flight of stairs leads you into one of the most intimate, chaotic, and unforgettable venues around. Was I slightly scared for my life once the floor started bouncing and the mosh pit fully formed? Yes. Was it 100% worth it? Also yes!
Getting the chance to thank a band in person for still showing up and delivering an incredible set made that night even more special, and it cemented my respect for them long before they started blowing up.
New Music + What’s Next
Catch Your Breath just dropped new music on Friday, January 23, and if you’ve been following their evolution, this release feels like the next big step. Catch Your Breath have released their new single “Lost” through Thriller Records, along with a music video. The track focuses on the emotional fallout of a relationship that ends without closure. Vocalist Josh Mowery explains: “This one is for the ones who lost a piece of them without being able to try to fix it.”
You can check out the new track “ LOST” here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hT3HzCpkbJY
They’re currently on the road, and if you’re anywhere near their upcoming stop, I can’t recommend catching them live enough!
You can catch them in St. Louis, March 16th at the Pageant. For more show information and ticket links, CLICK HERE.
On Repeat: No Resolve
One of my favorite things to spotlight is the journey, how someone can go from working a regular 9–5 to standing on a stage in front of thousands of fans. That’s exactly why my newest On Repeat pick is No Resolve.
Formed in Detroit, Michigan, in 2005, No Resolve’s story hits a little harder because it’s rooted in real life. These guys didn’t come from overnight hype or industry shortcuts, they built this band while still holding down everyday jobs. Lead singer Oscar works as a UPS driver, and guitarist Matty previously worked in construction. That grounded, blue-collar reality shows up in their music, their work ethic, and the way they connect with fans. I first discovered No Resolve back in 2021 through social media when they dropped their rock cover of Adele’s “Set Fire to the Rain,” followed by their powerful collaboration and rendition of “The Thunder Rolls” with State of Mind. Both of those stopped me in my tracks, heavy, emotional, and done with real respect for the originals, and I immediately wanted more.
It’s been incredible to watch this band grow over the years, and I was honestly so stoked to see a tour stop scheduled last year. Unfortunately, Oscar needed surgery, which forced a reschedule, but huge shoutout to The Riff for bringing them back and making sure this show still happens. (More details in just a few sentences, promise.) But first… the stuff you came here for. From there, they kept pulling me in with their high-energy covers, especially during my household’s full-on Moana and Encanto era. In 2022, their Disney covers basically took over my house... and I regret NOTHING.
But make no mistake, No Resolve is far more than a cover band. They’ve been releasing original music for years, steadily building their catalog with hard-hitting tracks like “Never Back Down” (2020) and their newest must-hear single, “Chemical.” Their originals hit with the same intensity and emotion as their covers, proving they can stand on their own while still having fun reimagining songs we all know.
Never Back Down
Chemical
Catch No Resolve Live in Springfield!!!
No Resolve is bringing their Unleashed Tour to Springfield next month, and if you love discovering bands before they completely blow up, this is one of those shows you don’t want to miss.
No Resolve
📍 The Riff – Springfield, MO - February 19th
🎸 With Special Guests: Shallow Side & Above Snakes 👉 Show details and ticket links HERE.
On Repeat: Let Me Put You On to Set It Off
So if you’ve been hearing Set It Off on the air lately and thinking, “Okay, I like this,” let me be that friend who immediately goes, “Cool, now let me show you why this band has been on repeat in our house for years.” Honestly, with how versatile Set It Off has been over time, it makes total sense. They’re one of those bands that somehow fits whatever mood you’re in… and that’s dangerous in the best way. They just wrapped up their Self-Titled Tour last month, and the energy around this era feels loud, confident, and really fun. The band shared on social:
“It’s been such an honor to begin the new era of Set It Off with tens of thousands of y’all over the past couple months. We can’t wait to party with so many more of you in 2026. We’re just getting started.”
And yeah, just getting started feels right… even though they’ve been in the scene for a long time. Set It Off formed in Tampa, Florida, back in 2008, with lead vocalist Cody Carson, guitarist/bassist Zach DeWall, and drummer Maxx Danziger. They built a big part of their following on YouTube, which totally tracks once you fall down the rabbit hole of their catalog.
Two Sides of the Same Album (and the Same Mood)
If I had to explain Set It Off to someone quickly, I’d probably just point to two songs from the same album and say, “This is it. This is the band.”
“Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing” → “Why Worry”
Both live on the album Duality, and once you realize that, everything clicks. “Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing” was one of the first tracks that hooked me. It’s sharp, sarcastic, a little unhinged in the best way. It leans fully into the darker, more aggressive side, calling things out, biting back, letting the frustration be loud. Then you flip the record and land on “Why Worry,” which feels like the exhale. Brighter, lighter, almost sarcastically optimistic, but still honest. Same band. Same album. Completely different energy.
https://youtu.be/sesKiKYQn84?si=j_KdOZlGlpzcopv_
That contrast wasn’t accidental. Duality was built around exactly that idea: two sides, two moods. I didn’t fully appreciate how intentional it was at first, but looking back now, it makes perfect sense. You can even hear how that idea has evolved over time. The REBORN version of “Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing,” we’ll talk about in a second. And honestly? That balance is why Set It Off works so well for us. Whether you need to scream it out or shake it off, they’ve got both sides covered.
Quick Collab Shoutouts (Because These Matter)
I also have to give a quick shoutout to some of their collaborations, because they’re just fun. Cody teaming up with Scene Queen on “Barbie & Ken” is one of those collabs that immediately makes sense. It blew up on TikTok and Instagram and definitely found its way onto my algorithm more than once. It came out a few years ago, but it’s such a great example of how social media helps bands grow and reach totally new audiences. Fun, loud, unapologetic, very on brand for both artists. Another standout is “Below the Belt” with Point North. I’ve been loving Point North for years now, and this felt like a sweet spot where both bands’ sounds meet perfectly. And seriously, if Point North isn’t already on your radar, go add them to the list of bands you need to deep dive.
The Latest from Set It Off
And bringing it back to their current self-titled album, Set It Off delivers the REBORN version of “Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing” a full-circle moment that hits even harder knowing where the band started. But don’t stop there. Make sure you check out “Punching Bag,” and of course the NEW music video for “Rotten.” If you’re looking for where Set It Off is right now, the growth, the confidence, the edge, this album is it. Basically… if you press play on one song, you’re probably not stopping at just one.
https://youtu.be/wiKWOAKMI88?si=Hbc3mryX9BED3vl1
From Chance Encounters to Rocking the Road
During literally one of the busiest weeks of last year, I somehow managed to sneak in an impromptu interview with the band Sleep Theory.
Unfortunately, Cullen wasn’t able to join us for the full interview, he was resting his voice at the time, but we did get to chat briefly in the hallway. I had just caught the very last song of their set about a week earlier in St. Louis, so the timing still felt full-circle in a weird, very on-brand way.
🎧 If you’re already a fan, this feels like a little extra layer of connection.
👇 If you’re new here, WELCOME. You’re gonna want to turn this one up!
https://omny.fm/shows/q92-9/sleep-theory-from-chance-encounters-to-rocking-the-road
If you already know and love Sleep Theory, this interview feels less like a formal sit-down and more like one of those post-show conversations where everyone’s a little tired, a little wired, and just being awkwardly real. And honestly? That’s my favorite kind.
Sleep Theory stopped by before their Springfield, Missouri show on the Afterglow Tour, bringing not just their powerful sound, but a genuine appreciation for the connection they’ve built with fans along the way. We talked about what it means to be back in the area, the community they’ve grown through VIP experiences, and the strange emotional balance of touring, loving the chaos of the road while still missing home in very real ways.
One of my favorite parts of the conversation was hearing how Sleep Theory actually came together, because it’s one of those stories that feels too random to be scripted.
A Blue Yeti microphone found on Facebook Marketplace.
A drummer juggling eight different projects.
A brotherly connection that sealed the deal.
Their formation wasn’t polished or planned, it was built through chance encounters, big sacrifices, and a shared belief in what they were creating together. Every member gave something up to make this work, and that commitment shows every time they step on stage.
On Repeat: The Songs That Stick With You
For this On Repeat feature, I’m pairing the interview with two Sleep Theory music videos, one from earlier in their journey and one newer release, because watching that growth side by side just hits differently after hearing their story straight from them.
We’re taking it back to one of the first Sleep Theory songs we ever heard. And yes, it was stuck in everyone’s head for a while. This one lives rent-free, so I’m sharing it with you… you’re welcome.
Stuck In My Head:
https://youtu.be/Nyuim0lH_Go?si=4FFGTSznP36lvnMS
The next track is a collaboration from the road with another one of my favorites, Nevertel, a band that brings equally powerful lyrics and energy. If you love emotional punch + big sound, this one delivers.
Break the Silence:
https://youtu.be/Qcp17QPN72Q?si=eWlSUZ_8div7sAX4
Every performance, every tour stop, every late-night hallway conversation is proof that Sleep Theory doesn’t take any of this for granted, and honestly, that’s what keeps them on repeat for me.