Good morning, Columbia.

Nearly 19,000 CPS students returned to class on the first day of the 2025-26 school year yesterday.

Superintendent Jeff Klein said the district also started a new bus service called DS Bus Lines with GPS tracking — a safety feature that will soon help 8,000 bus riders.

Dr. Jeff Klein—superintendent of Columbia Public Schools—introduced new policies for the start of the school year.

He said the changes will focus on improving student achievement and setting clear district goals.

Catherine Hanaway was appointed Missouri’s attorney general after Andrew Bailey resigned to join the FBI — she is the first woman in the role and plans to run for a full term while her team continues investigating Grain Belt Express after her recusal.

Governor Kehoe announced on Tuesday that Catherine Hanaway, a former U.S. Attorney, will become Missouri's 45th Attorney General and the first woman in the role.

She will replace Andrew Bailey, whose last day is on September 8 as he takes a new position with the FBI.

On August 18, the Columbia City Council approved a new water rate structure that will raise the Utility's revenue by 12%—it is expected to lower monthly bills for residential customers with steady usage.

The changes, which adjust base charges and consumption tiers, will take effect with the October billing cycle.

DraftKings and Circa Sports earned Missouri's only untethered mobile sports betting licenses from the Missouri Gaming Commission so they can run on their own and keep all revenue minus a 10% tax.

FanDuel did not receive a license—and sports betting will start on Dec. 1 with 14 sportsbooks expected once rules are set.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is asking locals to report deer with signs of hemorrhagic disease like head swelling and trouble breathing as summer reports come in.

Officials say outbreaks usually occur from July to October—but they do not expect large numbers of cases this year.

Missouri Bird Conservation Initiative Conference

5-10 p.m. — Columbia Country Club — Registration covers meals — Engage with passionate birders and partake in conservation discussions over two days.

Low Gap

8 PM — Rose Music Hall — Cashless venue — Enjoy a night of live music at this popular locale.

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

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

Bumps & Brunch 2025

1-3 p.m. — The Vineyards — $10 — Enjoy brunch while experts share invaluable insights for moms-to-be and new moms.

3 Growth Habits for Business Success

11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. — Accounting Plus — Free entry — Learn how to develop effective habits that boost cashflow and achieve business goals more efficiently.

2025 Missouri Tigers Football Season Tickets

6:30 PM — Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Secure your seats for every thrilling home game this season with the Missouri Tigers.

Central Arkansas Bears at Missouri Tigers Football Parking

6:31-10:31 p.m. — Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium — Parking available — Catch the Central Arkansas Bears face off against the Missouri Tigers in a thrilling football matchup.

Heart of America Marathon

6 AM – 12 PM — Boone County History & Culture Center — Registration required — Experience the excitement of the 66th running of the 2nd oldest continuously running marathon in the United States.

Hambo Latham Dance Night

6-9 p.m. — Callaway Senior Center — Bring a snack — Dance to music you grew up with while enjoying a fun social atmosphere.

Columbia Farmers Market

4-7 p.m. — MU Health Care Pavilion — Free entry — Explore local produce and artisan goods at Columbia's vibrant farmers market.