Good morning, Columbia.

On Friday, March 15, mid-Missouri firefighters from Boone County Fire Protection District responded to 43 emergency calls caused by strong winds and dry weather, including 21 cover fires, one structure fire, one car accident, one vehicle fire, seven medical emergencies, eight downed power lines and four fire alarms.

A Columbia man, Richard McDonald (62), was charged with felonies after allegedly pulling a gun during two road rage incidents, one on Feb.

1 near Interstate 70 and another on Sunday near Smiley Lane, and he is held at Boone County Jail with a $30,000 bond (per court documents).

Stephens College received a $600,000 grant (to boost its nursing program).

The college plans to add virtual reality technology and upgrade its hospital facility (as part of its program expansion).

At Monday night's meeting, the city council approved a $96,540 contract with George L.

Crawford and Associates, Inc to study pedestrian safety near medians. The firm will collect and analyze data and offer recommendations in two to three months—this study will use Capital Improvement Sales Tax funds to guide possible changes to traffic rules.

Missouri Tiger men’s basketball will play Drake in the NCAA Tournament on Thursday as the team travels to Wichita — four and a half hours from Columbia — with a tipoff scheduled at 6:35 p.m. Tickets for the 200 level will cost just under $100, and the Mizzou Alumni Association will host special events with merch giveaways during the game.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Wild And Scenic Film Festival

1:30-5:30 p.m. | The Blue Note | Tickets starting at $29 | Experience the energy and excitement of the Wild and Scenic Film Festival live in Columbia.