Good morning, Columbia.

Joe Forsee, a 100-year-old WWII veteran, recalled his 1943 days at Hickman where patriotic assemblies—paired with football games and friendships—shaped his school life during wartime, and noted a date that blossomed into lasting friendship as well as his service in Europe.

Amtrak is adding extra railcars to its Missouri River Runner service during the World Cup matches beginning June 15, boosting daily roundtrip capacity by 25% between St. Louis and Kansas City (including stops at Kirkwood, Washington, and Jefferson City) with service continuing until July 12.

Graduation ceremonies for Columbia College, Stephens College, and the University of Missouri will take place throughout May across Columbia — marking a key milestone for local students and families.

Senate Education Committee Chairman Rick Brattin is proposing that public schools post easy-to-read financial reports on their websites before the May 15 deadline — a move that has drawn bipartisan support and opposition as part of a group of education bills in the final weeks of session.

A study released Tuesday by the University of Missouri and University of Toledo found that goldfish disrupt water quality by stirring bottom sediments and increasing competition for native species, which may lower property values in Columbia.

Officials encourage pet owners to rehome unwanted goldfish or return them to stores.

Columbia Utilities has proposed an irrigation ordinance that sets designated watering days and times to ease water peak demand and support local growth.

The department will hold two public input meetings before the City Council reviews the plan.

Columbia and MoDOT are adjusting signal timing on detour routes such as Keene St to ease congestion from ongoing road construction.

Traffic officials said changes will help drivers find better routes as additional improvements are planned (Jacob Ray and Jon Nelson are leading these efforts).

City officials will proclaim next week as Children's Mental Health Week to raise awareness about kids' mental health in Columbia and encourage families to access local support resources.

Tiger Athletic Director Laird Veatch & coaches previewed big changes for the 2026-27 season during a 'Zou to You' tour in St. Charles Wednesday, noting the $250 million North End Zone renovation set for MU's Sept.

3 opener and key player additions on the rosters.

Spongebob: Search for Squarepants

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Lakeside Ashland — No outside food or drink — Enjoy a family-friendly movie night featuring Spongebob in search of Squarepants.

Defying Gravity

7-8:30 p.m. — Missouri Theatre — Not to be missed — A musical theatre extravaganza featuring Broadway veterans recreating cherished roles and beloved tunes.

Intro to Vinyl Cutting Workshop

6-8 p.m. — MACCLab | A Community Makerspace — Class fee applies — Explore vinyl cutting techniques while creating custom tote bags and signs.

All Your Friends

9:06 PM – 12:30 AM — The Blue Note — Cashless venue — Enjoy a lively evening with friends at this late-night event.

Intro to Machine Embroidery Workshop

6-8:30 p.m. — MACCLab | A Community Makerspace — Class fee includes all materials — Learn to use the Melco Bravo embroidery machine and create your own embroidered item.

The Lorax Movie Screening

8-10 a.m. — Lakeside Ashland — No outside food or drink — Enjoy a family-friendly movie under the stars with The Lorax.

Big (1988) Movie Screening

8-10 p.m. — Lakeside Ashland — No entry fee — Enjoy a classic film under the stars with family and friends.

Kris Lager Band Performance

10:30 a.m. — Katy Trail - Rocheport Trailhead — Free entry — Experience the vibrant sounds of Kris Lager as he brings a spirited performance outdoors.

Atomic Returns to Dive Bar

8 PM – 12 AM — Dive Bar — Cost details not provided — Experience the gritty blend of Midwest rock, country, and blues from Atomic Junction.

Apollo 13 Movie Night

8-10 p.m. — Lakeside Ashland — No outside food or drink — Celebrate cinematic history with the thrilling Apollo 13 on a Saturday night under the stars.