Monday, March 17th, 2025
Good morning, Columbia. Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 17th of March.
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ On March 14, a tornado hit Rolla, damaging homes and businesses and prompting an emergency shelter at First Baptist Church. The Columbia Fire Department answered a mutual-aid request and sent firefighters who searched neighborhoods by foot—returning to Columbia early Saturday. KRCG
- ➤ On Friday, March 14, crews from the Columbia Fire Department responded to two residential fires at Navahoe Avenue and Elleta Boulevard, quickly extinguishing heavy flames with no injuries reported—firefighters arrived within minutes and one fire was caused by an unattended grill. KRCG
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Columbia police are searching for a man linked to property damage that occurred on Saturday, March 15 at about 10:40 p.m. in the 20 block of South 10th Street, and residents with information are urged to call CPD (573.874.7652) or CrimeStoppers (573.875.8477). KRCG
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Columbia Public Schools announced that Matt Ross, a 25-year educator, will serve as principal of West Middle School for the 2025-26 school year—he replaces interim principal Courtney Lewis—after principal Melita Walker left earlier in the year. Columbia Daily Tribune
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Dave Sorrell is retiring as Columbia Utilities director after serving the city since 2001—he worked his way up and reflected on the growth he saw over the years. Columbia Missourian
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Experts say that social media does not cause eating disorders but can make teens more vulnerable to developing them. MU Health Care urges parents to watch closely for early signs and seek help with a treatment team — including a doctor, dietitian and behavioral specialist. KOMU 8
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Mizzou alumna Tiege Dooley-Panko wrote The Social Media Detox—a 14-day guide that offers daily challenges and expert tips to help break free from phone addiction. She started the project after noticing heavy phone use in her own life and among her nieces. KOMU 8
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Aaron McBee Live Performance
Experience a live music performance by Aaron McBee at The Blue Note, a well-rated venue in Columbia.
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Chess Play and Learn Session
This event offers a chance for enthusiasts of varying skill levels to play chess, seek guidance from experienced players, and try out other games.
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65th Annual Columbia Chamber Agricultural Recognition Banquet
The banquet celebrates the Boone County agricultural community with networking opportunities, award presentations, and proceeds supporting a scholarship fund for local students.
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Elton Dan & the Rocket Band
8:00 – 9:30 PM | The Blue Note | Ticket information not provided | Experience a lively tribute to Elton John's hits with superfan Elton Dan and his band.
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Community Dinner Gathering at India's House
A dinner club offering an opportunity to meet new people and enjoy a shared dining experience in Columbia, MO.
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Educational Series on the History of Jefferson City's First Bridge
Historian Wayne discusses the pivotal completion of Jefferson City's first bridge across the Missouri River in 1896 and its significance to the city.
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Little Acorns: Show-Me Symbols for Young Explorers
This interactive program invites children ages 3-6 to explore the unique wonders of Missouri at the Runge Nature Center.
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Kids Create: Wind Chimes
10 AM – 12 PM | Holts Summit Public Library | Free entry | Kids can unleash their creativity by painting and customizing their own wind chimes.
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Dr. Zhivegas Live Concert
8:00-9:30 p.m. | The Blue Note | Ticket prices vary | Experience an energetic performance by Dr. Zhivegas in the heart of Columbia.
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Gimme Gimme Disco Dance Party
7-11:30 p.m. | Rose Music Hall | Cost TBA | Dance the night away to ABBA hits and classic disco tunes from the 70s and 80s.
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