Good morning, Columbia.

The Central Missouri Humane Society is waiving adoption fees for adult dogs and cats from Sunday through Aug.

29 as part of the nationwide Clear The Shelters campaign, and it is competing for a People’s Choice Award ($10,000) while offering additional adoption specials throughout August.

A LendingTree report finds Missouri ranks ninth for back-to-school shopping costs, with average spending of $826 as families in Columbia face rising prices for supplies and clothing while electronics cost less (resulting in mixed budgeting challenges).

Columbia Public Schools opened the newly expanded Columbia Area Career Center for the 2026-27 school year, offering 26,000 sqft of new labs and upgraded classrooms.

The district announced the Worlds of Work job fair on Sept. 24 at Northeast Regional Park to connect freshmen with local businesses.

Eagle Bluffs Elementary School, Columbia Public Schools’ newest addition, opens its doors Tuesday next to John Warner Middle School.

The innovative facility features three playgrounds, flexible classrooms with 3-D printers and mobile desks, and is designed for 400 students in its first year — embracing modern teaching and learning.

MoDOT announced roadwork from today through next Sunday across mid-Missouri, including roundabout construction on Clark Lane in Columbia and preventive maintenance on nearby roads.

Drivers should expect lane closures plus slow-moving equipment on major routes.

A new state law designates June 28 as Eliot and Muriel Battle Day, honoring two local educators who broke barriers in public schools.

The governor’s signing of Senate Bill 1544 follows their lasting impact on racial equality and is reflected in local school names such as Battle Elementary.

Following a fatal head on crash near Wilsons Fitness Center, Forum Boulevard will undergo a $12.3M safety upgrade that expands the road to four lanes, adds a new Hinksons Creek bridge, roundabouts, medians, sidewalks and bike lanes when construction begins summer 2027.

The city of Columbia seeks proposals for the former retail incubator at 500 E.

Walnut St. A public discussion will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 27 at the REDI Hub to shape its future use.

Missouri health officials reported over 2,000 cyclosporiasis cases as of Sunday, prompting a warning to thoroughly wash produce to reduce risk (CDC notes delays in nationwide data).