Good morning, Columbia.

A road just outside Centralia was closed Friday when a car hit a telephone pole at 2:58 p.m.—three people were injured and responders extinguished the burning vehicle at 3:50 p.m. while transporting them to a hospital.

Michael Shields pleaded guilty in Boone County Circuit Court to two counts of first-degree sexual misconduct for incidents in a Columbia store and a dog park — he received consecutive 90-day jail terms, a $300 fine, and court orders for sex offender counseling and drug and alcohol testing.

Missouri lawmakers banned the three-cueing method from being the main reading instruction in K-12 schools—educators must now use phonics for most lessons, as signed by Gov. Mike Kehoe on Wednesday.

The law builds on state efforts to boost literacy, including teacher training programs that support effective reading practices.

Missouri Task Force 1 worked in Kerr County, Texas for three days while FEMA blocked officials from sharing mission specifics — fifty team members left on Monday with two more on Tuesday to reach a total of 53, including special search teams.

Columbia’s paratransit service is denying rides due to a shortage of drivers and vehicles — with only seven to nine vans serving 729 riders on a first-come, first-served basis.

Local advocates say the denials are hurting people with disabilities who rely on the service for essential trips.

Columbia is offering more resources to address homelessness by funding local programs like Room at the Inn and Turning Point, yet numbers have not improved with 323 people reported homeless last year.

Council member Nick Foster and officer Brad Anderson said the housing shortage and growing population make the issue complex—officials continue to seek better solutions.

Senator Cindy O'Laughlin signaled on Facebook Friday that MU Health Care and Anthem may have reached a deal, saying details will come next week.

MU Health Care said discussions are still underway and the goal is to restore in-network access for Anthem patients (statements were posted at 11:58 a.m. and 2:40 p.m.).

Indigo De Souza Live Performance

8-9:30 p.m. — The Blue Note — Ticket prices vary — Experience the profound artistry of Indigo De Souza as she showcases her latest album.

Intro to Longarm Quilting Class

6-8 p.m. — MACCLab | A Community Makerspace — $60 — Learn to use the HandiQuilter Simply Sixteen and create a small quilted project.

Essential Roles for Startup Success

4:30-5:30 p.m. — Accounting Plus — Free entry — Discover the 10 key roles every business owner must manage to succeed in today's market.

THE DEFECT Concert

7-11 p.m. — Rose Music Hall — Cashless venue — Enjoy an electrifying performance at a popular local venue.

Intro to Machine Embroidery Class

10:00 AM – 12:30 PM — MACCLab | A Community Makerspace — All materials included — Learn to use the Melco Bravo embroidery machine and create your own embroidered patch.

Compass Music Camp Showcase

5:30-7 p.m. — The Blue Note — Free entry — Witness the amazing musical talents of young performers from Compass Music Camp.

Intro to Vinyl Cutting Class

6-8 p.m. — MACCLab | A Community Makerspace — All materials included — Learn to use vinyl cutters and create your own tote and chalkboard sign while practicing safety protocols.

19th North American Agroforestry Conference

Wednesday, Jul 23rd — Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building — Registration info available — Connect with agroforestry experts to enhance research and sustainable practices.

Intro to Woodworking Class

5-8 p.m. — MACCLab | A Community Makerspace — Class fee covers materials — Learn woodshop equipment and create a small project with safety guidance.

Aina Cook Live

7-11 p.m. — Rose Music Hall — Cashless venue — Enjoy a night of music with Aina Cook at a top-rated local venue.

Murder at the Tiger Saloon

This western themed murder mystery takes place in a saloon (The Grand Ballroom at voco The Tiger Hotel) full of interesting characters. Includes: immersive acting, signature themed cocktails, 3 course dinner, and more