Good morning, Columbia.

Boone County officials said the Upward Mobility Initiative, which focuses on boosting literacy, inclusive housing, and workforce development, gained national attention after being featured on the Urban Institute website (May 19) as local leaders have worked together since 2021 to bring measurable progress.

Downtown’s new North Village Park will break ground in a few weeks on 2.3 acres and include accessible parking, ADA compliant sidewalks, a sensory-based playground, and art displays — improvements include relocating utility wires to enhance access.

The project aims to boost local events and business.

Moberly officials announced that starting July 1 water and sewer rates will rise 3% to add about $3.67 to the monthly bill and extra fees for card and paper billing.

In Columbia the utility assistance program has exhausted its $800,000 in funds, with new aid coming in October.

Two Hickman High School students (from the Columbia Area Career Center Culinary Arts Program) medaled at a national culinary competition, marking a proud achievement for local culinary education.

Two Columbia Area Career Center Digital Media students earned national recognition at the 2026 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta from June 1st to 5th when they took third place in Digital Cinema Production by earning bronze medals and the Best Breakthrough Filmmaker Award.

Columbia will host a recycling drop-off event on June 13 at the Grissum Building — residents can drop off glass, cardboard, paper, and other recyclables from 8 a.m. to noon.

Boone Electric Cooperative restored power to nearly all customers in Boone County after strong storms hit late Sunday & outages dropped from over 1,300 to nine as of 4:50 a.m. today.

The Missouri Department of Conservation will host a free guided hike at Capen Park on Thursday at 6 p.m. Participants of all ages will explore grassland, woodland, and riparian areas while learning about native and invasive plants (registration is required on its website).

Local Mid-Missouri agencies are training for the FIFA World Cup match on Thursday.

Boone County Emergency Management has planned for extra traffic, medical calls, and weather challenges while state agencies assign support, leaving local teams focused on community safety (including KC2026 coordination).

Breakthrough Basketball Skills Camp

Youth Basketball Camp — Jun 9-11 — Columbia Sports Fieldhouse — $97 observed coach fee — Improve your scoring and ball handling at this high-intensity camp for kids in grades 3-8.

Callaway Chamber Monthly Roundtable Tour

8:30-10:00 a.m. — Callaway Chamber of Commerce — Free entry — Engage with community members and industry leaders to explore local workforce opportunities.

2026 Show-Me State Games / Missouri State Senior Games

All day — Albert-Oakland Park — Various entry fees — Compete or enjoy playing pickleball at one of Columbia's premier venues.

Next Stop Comedy

8-10 p.m. — Bur Oak Brewing Company LLC — Entry details not provided — Enjoy live stand-up comedy in a vibrant local venue.

Family Story Time for Young Children

10-11 a.m. — Legends Rec-Plex — Free entry — Experience stories and rhymes designed for children five years and under.

Intro to Vinyl Cutting Class

6-8 p.m. — MACCLab | A Community Makerspace — Class fee applies — Learn to use vinyl cutters and create projects like a tote and chalkboard sign.

Friday Night Movie: Hoppers

8:30-10:30 p.m. — Lakeside Ashland — No outside food or drink — Enjoy a family-friendly movie night under the stars.

Iron Man Movie Screening

8:30 – 10:30 PM — Lakeside Ashland — No outside food or drink — Enjoy a classic superhero film under the stars with family and friends.

Family Story Time

10-11 a.m. — Legends Rec-Plex — Free entry — Experience a delightful morning of stories, rhymes, and fun for families with young children.

Women Doing Good Recognition Breakfast

8:00 – 9:30 AM — Hampton Inn & Suites Columbia — Cost not specified — Celebrate inspiring women making a difference in the Columbia community.