Good morning, Columbia.

A house fire broke out on McBaine Avenue Friday just before 8 a.m. in central Columbia; firefighters contained the blaze quickly while noting that combustible materials near a heat source caused the fire and a cat died, though all residents escaped safely.

Partner for Better was named Small Business of the Year for 2026 by the Chamber, recognizing its efforts to strengthen organizations that make our community thrive & spur local success.

Columbia Public Schools board will set committee roles and finalize staffing for alternative education during Monday night’s meeting on May 11.

The board will also consider creating a new student achievement group — led by Eric Dickson — to review academic results and guide improvement efforts.

University of Missouri students celebrated Reading Day at East Campus on Friday with festivities including music, games, and drinks, while police managed crowds by breaking up groups and limiting lawn access for non-residents — the fall academic calendar will no longer mark Reading Day.

On Monday, May 11, the Columbia Board of Education will review a 6% raise for Superintendent Jeff Klein that would increase his salary from $255,000 to $270,300 for the 2026-27 school year (pending board approval).

On Friday, May 8, University students celebrated Stop Day, but police enforcement (including flyer distribution around East Campus) led to several gatherings being broken up; some students said the measures helped maintain safety while others felt the extra presence reduced the day’s usual campus unity.

Pickleball players at Albert-Oakland Park have seen wait times stretch up to 15 minutes due to ongoing construction — new courts will nearly double capacity and be completed by this summer.

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.

Sporting KC Summer Soccer Camp

5-8 p.m. — Columbia Cosmopolitan Recreation Area — $130-$225 — Young soccer enthusiasts can improve their skills under professional coaching in a fun and engaging environment.

Arts Fishing Club Performance

7:00-9:30 p.m. — Rose Music Hall — Cashless venue — Enjoy an evening of captivating live music at Rose Music Hall.