Good morning, Columbia.

Columbia/Boone County Animal Control paused stray dog intakes on Thursday because its shelter and the Central Missouri Humane Society reached capacity+ residents are urged to post photos and locations of found dogs on the local Lost and Found Pets Facebook group.

The Boone County Fair is open today and tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 5212 Oakland Gravel Road, featuring fried foods, rides, face painting, livestock, and a petting zoo.

Admission is $15 today and tomorrow and $20 on Saturday (kids under nine and veterans with ID enter free).

A new breakfast and lunch restaurant called The Big Biscuit will open soon in south Columbia & is located near a Hy-Vee supermarket.

Wine judges in Columbia awarded top honors at the Missouri Governor’s Cup Wine Competition held July 14-16; Adam Puchta Winery earned the Governor’s Cup for 2025 Dry Vignoles and Les Bourgeois Vineyards won the Norton award for 2024 Norton.

Winners will be on display at the State Fair Aug. 13-23.

The White House Rose Garden now displays an identical Thomas Jefferson statue as the longstanding one at Francis Quadrangle on Mizzou campus.

The bronze sculpture by Colorado artist George Lundeen was added last week (mirroring at least 20 replicas placed in public spaces nationwide).

The University of Missouri released a review of nearly 700 faculty members that shows increased support for President Mun Choi’s leadership in 2026 compared to previous years, and 66 percent support his retention as chancellor.

Missouri Department of Natural Resources announced that all state park beaches are open for swimming this week — including spots at Cuivre River, Finger Lakes, and Lake of the Ozarks State Parks.

MoDOT moved up a traffic shift on westbound I-70 to Thursday night due to forecasted weather.

The change also reduced the speed limit to 35 mph and imposed detours as crews work on the bridge at Boone County Route J (Exit 117), with access closed until the end of November.

Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway warned the Columbia Public Library on Thursday to keep Saturday's Rainbow Story Time age-appropriate — a library spokeswoman said the event’s books are suitable for children.

Columbia City Council approved a new plan on Monday to boost renewable electricity to 40% by 2035 after the city fell short of its 2026 goal; City Utilities generated under 285,000 megawatts from renewables last year & the city is seeking more affordable renewable options with wind and solar projects.

All ramps on and off I-70 at Providence Road will be closed for several months as work on a new bridge continues; on July 27, remaining ramps will shut and overnight work (7 p.m. to 6 a.m. July 27–29) will reduce lanes while MoDOT urges drivers to slow down.

Boone County cyclosporiasis cases have risen to 56 (up from 13 one week ago) as doctors say the infection lasts longer than a typical stomach bug.

Health officials advise families to cook food to 158°F and follow safe practices to reduce risk.

Valley Hope has opened an outpatient addiction treatment center in Columbia to offer group therapy, education and individual counseling for people with substance-use disorders who can continue living at home.

The center also provides telehealth options to help patients balance recovery with work, school or family responsibilities.

Twister Movie Night

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

Brad Upton Live Performance

7 p.m. — The Blue Note — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comedian Brad Upton in Columbia's iconic venue.

Basics of Industrial Sewing Class

10 AM – 1 PM — MACCLab | A Community Makerspace — All materials included — Learn to use home sewing machines and industrial equipment while creating a tote bag.