Community
Community coverage from Columbia and across the region.
Recent coverage
Editorial Cartoonist John Darkow Comments on Political Advertising
Editorial cartoonist John Darkow recently released new artwork. The cartoon visually interprets a common sentiment regarding current political campaign advertisements.
Ashland Residents Recognized for July Home Landscaping
Destry and William Moffat's Ashland property received the July Yard of the Month award. The couple significantly improved their home's landscaping since moving to the area in October 2025.
Ashland FFA Members Attend Floral Design Event
Ashland Future Farmers of America (FFA) students participated in a floral design symposium in Orlando, Florida. The event featured educational sessions and networking opportunities for those in the floriculture field.
Young Entrepreneur Plans Future on Family Ranch Amid Industry Shifts
A 12-year-old in Boone County prepares to continue his family's ranching operation. This generational commitment occurs as family-owned agricultural businesses face increasing challenges statewide.
Columbia Resident Nancy Little Dies at 70
Nancy Little, a Columbia resident, passed away at age 70 on July 9 while receiving hospice care. She was at the home of her daughter and son-in-law.
Editorial Cartoon by John Darkow
This editorial cartoon was created by John Darkow. It offers a visual commentary on current events.
East Ash Street Closure Begins as U.S. 54 Ramp to I-70 Westbound Reopens in Columbia
East Ash Street in Columbia has closed for ongoing roadwork. Simultaneously, the U.S. 54 on-ramp providing access to Interstate 70 westbound is now open to traffic.
Habitat for Humanity, CraftCycle Mark Partnership Milestone
Habitat for Humanity of Central Missouri and CoMo CraftCycle commemorated a year of collaboration with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Attendees celebrated the successful partnership between the two organizations.
Editorial Cartoonist John Darkow Publishes New Work
Editorial cartoonist John Darkow recently released a new cartoon. The artwork reflects current events through a visual commentary.
Columbia Educators Operate Mobile Flower Business
Two educators from Columbia Public Schools operate a floral business from a refurbished Volkswagen van. The mobile flower shop offers handcrafted bouquets to customers.
Editorial Cartoon Addresses Political Commentary
Artist John Darkow created a new editorial cartoon. The drawing offers visual commentary on current political topics.
VAC Opportunity Campus Initiates Services for Columbia's Homeless Population
The Voluntary Action Center (VAC) opened its Opportunity Campus day center in Columbia. This new facility, previously known as Turning Point, serves as a central resource hub for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Editorial cartoon published
The Missouri Dispatch published an editorial cartoon. Staff artist John Darkow created the piece.
Road Closures Expected on I-70, Sinclair and Oakland Gravel Roads in Columbia
Motorists can anticipate overnight detours as crews perform roadwork on Interstate 70 in Columbia. Sinclair Road and Oakland Gravel Road also have planned closures.
Columbia Methodist Church ends over 100 years of operation
Wilkes Boulevard United Methodist Church concluded its services on Sunday, ceasing operations after more than a century. The church observed a final celebration event.
Columbia Prepares for Independence Day Celebration
Columbia will host its annual Fourth of July event at Stephens Lake Park, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Attendees can expect family activities, music performances, and food vendors, culminating in a 9:15 p.m. fireworks display over the lake.
Editorial Cartoon Features Norm Ruebling
Political cartoonist John Darkow created an editorial cartoon. The illustration depicts Norm Ruebling in the Columbia Daily Tribune.
Columbia Residents Commemorate 9/11 Through Stair Climb Event
Approximately 300 participants ascended 2,200 steps at the Hearnes Center in Columbia. This annual event honors the 25th anniversary of the September 11th attacks.
Editorial Cartoonist John Darkow Publishes Work
Missouri-based cartoonist John Darkow recently released a new editorial cartoon. The submission is available for viewer interpretation without further comment.
Columbia Groups Decorate Downtown in Anticipation of Independence Day
Local organizations, families, and businesses in Columbia are painting windows throughout the downtown area. This collaborative effort commemorates the upcoming 250th anniversary of America's independence.
State Historical Society Preserves Missouri Military Uniforms
The State Historical Society of Missouri in Columbia houses a collection of military uniforms. These artifacts represent the service of Missouri veterans across multiple conflicts, from World War I through more recent engagements.
Ashland Resident Shirley Calvin Passed Away at 92
Shirley Ann Calvin, an Ashland resident, died at Boone Hospital on June 19 at the age of 92. Her family was present at the time of her passing.
Editorial Cartoonist John Darkow Comments in New Work
Editorial cartoonist John Darkow recently released a new piece. His work offers a visual commentary on current events.
Columbia Resident Celebrates 102nd Birthday
A Columbia native recently marked his 102nd birthday, maintaining an independent lifestyle. He has a long history of philanthropic work.
Dr. Jiří Tomáš Beranek, Columbia Resident, Dies at 91
Dr. Jiří Tomáš Beranek, a Columbia resident and physician, passed away on December 31 at the age of 91. He lived in both Columbia, Missouri, and Prague, Czech Republic.
Editorial Cartoonist John Darkow Shares New Work
Political cartoonist John Darkow recently released a new editorial cartoon. He is known for his satirical commentary on current events.
Safety Ambassadors Begin Downtown Columbia Patrols
Downtown Columbia now has safety ambassadors patrolling streets Wednesday through Saturday evenings. A seven-person team will operate from 4:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. to enhance public safety.
Columbia-area official discusses community needs as storms impact region
Ashland's interim city administrator addressed the community's priorities during recent heavy rainfall. He also provided details about his background.
Columbia Restores Historic Statue of Liberty Replica
A replica of the Statue of Liberty in Columbia recently underwent restoration. This statue is one of more than 200 such monuments, known as "Liberty Sisters," situated across the nation.
Columbia: Detour Alert – Grindstone and U.S. 63 Fully Open, Aldeah Avenue Closure
Officials announce the full opening of the Grindstone and U.S. 63 interchange in Columbia. This comes as Aldeah Avenue closes at Broadway for upcoming construction.
Annual Soap Box Derby Event Held in Columbia
Youth drivers recently competed in gravity-powered cars during the annual Mid Missouri Soap Box Derby. The event took place on Broadway, drawing community members to watch the races.
Columbia Event Highlights Children's Activities
A local event in Columbia focused on engaging children in various activities. The program provided local youth with recreational opportunities.
Columbia Businesses Prepare for World Cup Viewers
Local establishments in Columbia are organizing events and screenings for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Residents will have multiple options to watch the international soccer tournament.
General Store at Cooper's Landing will open in May
A new general store will open this month at Cooper's Landing, providing retail services and facilities to the public. It will offer food, beverages, and amenities including showers, restrooms, and an event space.
Local actor finds fulfillment on stage
Amanda Swaim, a Columbia Entertainment Company actor, recently brought life to the role of LaVonda DuPree in the March production of "Sordid Lives." Swaim expresses that theatrical performances contribute significantly to her personal happiness.
Editorial Cartoon Highlights Vote on City Services
Political cartoonist John Darkow created an editorial cartoon, titled 'Only Voting for Essential City Services.' The cartoon presents a visual commentary on citizen priorities regarding municipal funding.
Ashland starts curbside recycling program
Ashland residents now have access to curbside recycling services. This initiative aims to address a long-standing need for more accessible recycling options in the community.
Columbia High Schools Celebrate 2024 Graduations
Four Columbia Public Schools high schools, including Douglass, Hickman, Battle, and Rock Bridge, recently held commencement ceremonies for their graduating classes. Speakers at the events acknowledged students' dedication and anticipated their future endeavors.
Editorial Cartoonist John Darkow Comments on Cost of Living
Missouri's John Darkow provided an editorial cartoon this week. His latest work addresses the current affordability of goods and services.
Portion of South Robbie Forbis Road to Close for Culvert Installation
South Robbie Forbis Road will close to traffic between Route Y and Hunters Bend Road. The closure will occur from 7 a.m. on June 1 to 4:30 p.m. on June 3 for culvert replacement.
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