Good morning, Columbia.

Mid-Missouri McDonald's owners celebrated 7 years of supporting Columbia’s Ronald McDonald House with their Penny for a Pound of Fries fundraiser, which sends a monthly check based on French fry sales.

The program raised more than $200,000—helping provide free lunches for families and a Family Room at MU Health Care’s Children’s Hospital—since it began in 2018.

Maxon Castle, 23, who allegedly sprayed two women with a caustic liquid near the Bear Creek Trail parking lot on March 12, has been deemed competent to stand trial and is held at Boone County Jail without bond — he faces two counts of second-degree assault and additional charges for unlawful use of a weapon, with a preliminary hearing set for 9 a.m. on Sept. 11.

Columbia teenager Cordero Riley pleaded guilty to reduced charges for unlawful use of a weapon and second-degree assault for firing a gun on Rice Road near Boyd Lane on May 26, 2024 that killed Trevon Ashcraft and he is scheduled for sentencing on Sept.

15.

The City of Columbia announced on Thursday that it will fund a Small Business Grant program in partnership with Regional Economic Development, Inc. The program will offer eight grants (two for $10,000 and six for $5,000) to small businesses that meet eligibility requirements like being based in Boone County and having fewer than 10 employees.

Vera Elwood raised $13,428.79 while Ken Rice raised $4,690 for the open Second Ward seat on Columbia City Council—campaign finance reports filed on July 14 and July 10 show her committee held $10,200.72.

A special election for the seat will be held Aug. 5.

University of Missouri officials hosted a Missouri Nuclear Summit in Downtown Columbia on Thursday at the Missouri Theatre where energy experts and Governor Mike Kehoe discussed adding nuclear power to Missouri’s energy mix to reduce reliance on imports.

The summit outlined technical support from the National Governor’s Association and U.S. Department of Energy—efforts that may spur new nuclear projects in the state.

An internal review of last year’s flash flood rescue calls found that the fire department needs more powerful boats and better training to keep firefighters safe after the drowning of Assistant Boone County Fire Chief Matt Tobben in July 2024.

Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer said the report also noted communication issues and that the city manager’s office has approved the purchase of new equipment to improve safety in future rescues.

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.

Intro to Longarm Quilting Class

10 AM – 12 PM — MACCLab | A Community Makerspace — $60 — Master the HandiQuilter Simply Sixteen in this fun introductory class.

Summer Camp #4: School of Rock

9 AM – 3 PM — TRYPS Children's Theater — Registration Required — Engage in a musical adventure with acting, crafts, dance, and more at this enriching summer camp.

Inside Out 2 Screening

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Lakeside Ashland — No entry fee listed — Enjoy a delightful animated film night under the stars.

Basics of Industrial Sewing Class

10 AM – 1 PM — MACCLab | A Community Makerspace — All materials provided — Master the basics of industrial sewing and create your own tote bag.

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