Good morning, Columbia.

KRCG covers news from the Columbia and Jefferson City area, reporting on Marine Corps birthday traditions, flight delays due to the government shutdown, local court cases, and community celebrations in nearby towns—each story reflecting the region’s recent events and ongoing issues.

The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri is offering creative Thanksgiving meal solutions and food safety tips to help neighbors enjoy a healthy holiday—providing alternatives for traditional turkey dinners and new ways to use everyday ingredients.

Richard Mahoney in Mexico is collecting bikes for children across mid-Missouri to spread holiday joy—he will hand them out on December 20 and reviews his list many times a day as requests increase.

His project began as a simple idea and has quickly grown into a community effort.

On November 10th, the U.S. Exercise Tiger Foundation hosted a 24-hour vigil in Columbia to honor fallen soldiers and preserve a 40-year tradition.

Veteran’s United will host the final lights display for Bright Lights Holiday Nights this December—officials said traffic concerns in the neighborhood prompted ending the event after this year.

Candidate filing for the Columbia Public Schools board begins Dec.

9 and will run each weekday until Dec. 30 at the Neil C. Aslin District Administration building at 1818 W. Worley St with filing hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Board Administrator Noël McDonald said walk-ins are allowed on the first and last days while filings from Dec. 10 to 29 must be scheduled in advance — inclement weather or illness may delay the process ahead of the April 7 election.

On Tuesday night, residents in Columbia and mid-Missouri towns—like Fulton, Moberly, and Huntsville—saw the northern lights with the naked eye, and experts recommend using long-exposure photography for a better view.

A section of Business Loop 70 between Hathman Place and Eastland Circle is closed today through Nov.

26 for a roundabout construction as part of the Improve I-70 project—local businesses remain open with detour signs directing drivers along Trimble Road and East Broadway.

A University of Missouri researcher developed an ultrasound method to test blood thickness in real time — the new process tracks changes in blood viscosity continuously rather than just a single droplet at a time.

He said the breakthrough could guide transfusions and improve care for patients with blood conditions like sickle cell anemia as it moves to human trials.

Recent data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid showed that Boone Health tied with Mosaic Medical Center in Maryville for Missouri's lowest readmission rate, recording a three-year average of 13.3 percent compared to a 15 percent national average—underscoring effective care transitions.

Missouri Farmers Union Annual Meeting

4-8 p.m. — Bradford Research Farm — $30 for MOFU Members, $70 for non-members — Connect with farmers and enjoy a locally sourced meal while learning from industry leaders.

Noah Bowman Concert

8 PM – 12 AM — The Blue Note — Cost not listed — Experience the sounds of Southern Oklahoma with a blend of Red Dirt, Southern Rock, and Country music.

American Ballet Theatre Performance

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Jesse Hall Auditorium — Tickets available — Experience the dazzling performances of the ABT Studio Company showcasing a variety of ballet styles.

Prairie A&M Panthers vs. Missouri Tigers Basketball

7-8:30 p.m. — Mizzou Arena — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an exciting college basketball showdown between the Prairie A&M Panthers and the Missouri Tigers.

Hypoxia Training by the FAA

8 a.m. — Columbia Regional Airport — Free entry — Participate in an informative hypoxia training session designed for pilots.

Fall Choral Union Concert

7-9 p.m. — Jesse Hall Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience a spectacular performance conducted by Dr. Andre Thomas with 250 singers and a full orchestra.

Priscilla Block Concert

6:00-9:30 p.m. — The Blue Note — Ticket info available — Experience an evening of captivating music with Priscilla Block.

JUMP - America's Van Halen Experience

8-9:30 p.m. — The Blue Note — Ticket prices vary — Experience an electrifying tribute to Van Halen with one of the top up-and-coming tribute bands.

Holiday Curated Crafted Created Market

10 AM – 3 PM — Columbia Mall — Free entry — Explore a unique marketplace featuring local makers and artisans showcasing handcrafted goods.

NCAA Cross Country Championships

3:30-7:30 a.m. — Gans Creek Cross Country Course — Ticket prices vary — Experience thrilling races at one of the premier collegiate cross country events in the nation.