Good morning, Columbia.

Legendary country singer Dolly Parton died Tuesday after battling cancer, leaving a legacy that benefited nearly 170,000 Missouri children through her Imagination Library and inspiring local artist Meredith Shaw to plan a tribute at The Blue Note.

Boone County country musician Meredith Shaw recalled Dolly Parton's legacy after news of her passing brought many messages from fans — she explained how the icon's focus on perseverance and storytelling continues to shape local performances.

Mizzou's 21st annual Tomato Festival will offer over 240 varieties of tomatoes for tasting and other activities on campus this year.

The event returns bigger and better to celebrate a longstanding community tradition.

Columbia is accepting applications for its Fall 2026 Civic Academy, a free eight-session program held on Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. between Oct.

1 and Nov. 19 that teaches local government through tours, talks, and activities for residents 18 and older on a first come first served basis with dinner provided.

The University of Missouri and Stephens College began fall classes on Monday in Columbia with high enrollment and a bustling campus (reports show a vibrant start to the semester).

University officials Mun Choi and Provost Martens advised students to avoid parts of downtown (sections of Walnut between 8th and 10th) after recent incidents and increased patrols were announced, and a former student is in critical condition after falling from a popular rooftop bar Sunday.

Yesterday, thousands of students returned to Columbia Public Schools as crews finished a roundabout at Sinclair Road and Southampton Dr.—leading to local schools—while MoDOT continued work at Clark Lane and Hanover Blvd. Drivers should plan ahead amid traffic changes and a new school bus law starting Aug. 28.

On Sept. 26 to 29, Missouri River Relief will hold its fourth Big Muddy Clean Sweep along the river near Cooper's Landing, as volunteers remove trash with boats; the group will celebrate 25 years with a social hour (and virtual Q&A) at Stephens Lake Park on Nov.

10.

Missouri residents can order native tree and shrub seedlings from MDC’s State Forest Nursery starting Sept.

1, with orders open through April 15 and discounts for Conservation ID holders. Early orders are encouraged since popular species sell out fast & some seedlings may be lost to harsh weather or hungry animals.

Columbia Public Works has announced West Ash Street between Bernadette Drive and Clinkscales Road will close for emergency water line repairs on Wednesday — work begins at 4 a.m. and local drivers are directed to use alternative routes via West Worley Street and West Broadway.