Community
Community coverage from Statewide and across the region.
Recent coverage
Columbia roadwork prompts I-70, U.S. 63 lane reductions and roundabout construction
Motorists in Columbia will experience traffic changes due to ongoing road construction projects. Work includes lane reductions on I-70 and U.S. 63, alongside new roundabout construction at Fairview and Chapel Hill roads.
Medical professionals observe health impacts on children involved in immigration cases
Physicians are noting health challenges affecting children who experience immigration-related activities. These healthcare professionals report increased physical and mental stress among this demographic.
Columbia Cyclists Participate in Evening Illuminated Ride
Cyclists journeyed from Flat Branch Park to Twin Lakes Recreation Area on lit trails in Columbia. The event, called Kaleidospoke, highlighted the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail.
Editorial cartoon published
Political cartoonist John Darkow presented his latest work for statewide readers. The editorial cartoon offers visual commentary on current events.
Missouri observes national decline in veteran homelessness amid rising numbers in some states
Data from 2023 shows a significant national reduction in homelessness among U.S. veterans, reaching its lowest point on record. However, half of states, including Missouri, reported an increase in their veteran homeless populations.
Hartsburg Resident Virgil Jeffery Dies at 61
Virgil Kent Jeffery, a 61-year-old resident of Hartsburg, died on August 8, 2026. He passed away in Westphalia, Missouri.
Editorial cartoon reflects on local development
Political cartoonist John Darkow created an editorial cartoon this week. The artwork comments on a community's reaction to a new development project, expressing relief about its nature.
Columbia modelers complete projects in tribute to late member
Central Missouri Scale Modelers are finishing projects initiated by Jack Andrewson, a deceased club member. The organization will honor Andrewson and display these works at the upcoming TigerCon event in November.
Former Columbia City Manager Details City History in New Memoir
Ray Beck, a former city manager, released a new book chronicling Columbia's development from his perspective. The publication offers insights into various city initiatives and events during his tenure.
Road closures planned for South Sinclair Road, Clark Lane in Columbia
Drivers in Columbia should anticipate upcoming road closures. South Sinclair Road will close for repairs, and the Clark Lane roundabout will also be temporarily inaccessible.
South Columbia sunflower fields open to public viewing
Sunflowers at the University of Missouri's South Farm in Columbia are currently blooming. The public can view the fields in phases through September.
Editorial Cartoon Features Local Artist's Work
This editorial cartoon showcases the work of local artist John Darkow. The piece acknowledges Simon Rose, suggesting a tribute or recognition.
Editorial Cartoon Addresses Community Risk Factors
John Darkow's latest editorial cartoon highlights public health and safety concerns. The visual commentary prompts reflection on shared societal responsibilities.
Columbia cinema hosts craft event during film screening
Ragtag Cinema organized a crafting activity during a recent movie showing. This event aligns with a national trend of combining crafting with cinema, sometimes known as "Knit-Flix" or "Reel Crafts."
Missouri sees rise in drug-resistant fungal infections
Healthcare facilities across Missouri report a growing number of patients contracting a drug-resistant fungal infection. This disease poses a significant risk to individuals with weakened immune systems.
Cartoon explores debate on public safety and individual privacy
A recent editorial cartoon by John Darkow visually represents the ongoing discussion between public safety measures and individual privacy rights. The piece offers a visual commentary on the complex balance between these societal interests.
Columbia resident Hazel Janell Woods passes away at 99
Hazel Janell Woods, a longtime Columbia resident, died on August 7 at the age of 99. Her life spanned nearly a century.
HIV Funding Cuts Strain Kansas City Health Services
Reduced federal funding for HIV services is impacting Kansas City's safety net providers. These budget decreases challenge local organizations offering critical support for individuals living with HIV.
Columbia explores reducing utility aid, reviews initial 2027 budget proposal
The Columbia City Council recently examined a potential decrease in residential utility assistance. Council members also began their review of the city's proposed budget for the 2027 fiscal year.
Columbia Doctor Crafts Glass Art
A Columbia obstetrician-gynecologist and interim pastor creates glass marbles by hand. He dedicates his personal time to this artistic pursuit.
Columbia Traffic Delays Expected for I-70 Exit and Providence Road
Motorists in Columbia will encounter temporary disruptions as the I-70/St. Charles Road exit ramps close for maintenance. Additionally, North Providence Road will experience lane closures, impacting local traffic flow.
Study Links Wildfire Smoke Exposure to Pregnancy Complications
Research indicates wildfire smoke has become a significant environmental pollutant impacting pregnant individuals. Exposure to these pollutants is associated with adverse maternal and fetal health outcomes.
Hinkson Creek Restoration Efforts Fall Short
Environmental records indicate Hinkson Creek remains unsafe for public recreation, despite a cleanup initiative launched in 2012. Over a decade of restoration work has produced limited improvements in water quality.
Editorial cartoon published
The Missouri Dispatch features an editorial cartoon by John Darkow. The artwork offers a visual commentary on current events.
Report examines experiences of young people in mid-Missouri
Reporters investigated what daily life is like for young individuals across mid-Missouri. The study focused on various topics relevant to this demographic.
Columbia gym offers obstacle course training for all ages
A Columbia facility provides American Ninja Warrior-style training equipment and classes. The gym serves a wide range of ages, from children seeking recreational activities to adults pursuing fitness objectives.
Road Closures and Lane Reductions Impact Columbia Traffic
Officials will close Old 63 and reduce Interstate 70 to one lane at Providence Road. These changes will affect Columbia roadways and surrounding Boone County traffic.
Missouri Residents Face Renewed Measles Concerns
Recent data indicate a significant increase in measles cases across the United States, reaching levels not seen in 35 years. Missouri health officials are monitoring the national trend, urging residents to ensure their vaccinations are current to prevent local outbreaks.
Missouri's Amish Population Sees Significant Growth, Influencing Rural Areas
Missouri holds the seventh-largest Amish population nationwide, experiencing substantial growth. This expansion is partly due to the availability of affordable agricultural land.
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 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.
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.
Editorial Cartoon Published
The Missouri Dispatch features an editorial cartoon by John Darkow. This visual commentary offers a perspective on current events.
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.
July New Moon Offers Prime Star-Gazing Conditions
The new moon phase begins on July 14, providing an optimal opportunity for observing the Milky Way. Minimal lunar light will enhance the visibility of celestial objects.
Kansas Community Prepares to Host Algerian Delegation
A Kansas town developed specialized cultural and linguistic skills, including Halal food preparation, Arabic, and French, to welcome an Algerian delegation. This initiative highlights efforts to ensure visitors' comfort and respect cultural norms.
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.
Featured reporting
Downtown Springfield’s historic square enters a new chapter
Three new restaurants and a boutique hotel are slated to open by summer, the latest phase of a long revitalization push.
St. Charles moves to expand historic district along Main Street
Preservationists called the vote a milestone, while some property owners pushed back over new design rules.
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