Good morning, Columbia.

Anonymous donors pledged a challenge gift of $500,000 on Dec.

3 that will match each donation to Love Columbia in December and fund volunteer training, staff payroll, and the planned Love Forward Homes transitional apartment complex for 10 families. The support aims to address growing housing needs in the community.

Veterans United will host its final drive-through Holiday Bright Lights/Holiday Nights from Dec.

10 to Dec. 21 at 550 Veterans United Drive in south Columbia, showcasing over one million LED lights along a mile long route. Police will assist with traffic flow to ease congestion.

An 1860s barn near Business Loop 70 burned to the ground on Saturday on the 1600 block of Mores Boulevard, with firefighters using five trucks and 19 firefighters to control the blaze in about 20 minutes (cause yet undetermined) as community members call for answers.

Retired Columbia firefighter Kale Brucks (a former career firefighter) founded Engine Company Leather in Jefferson City after a four-year medical retirement.

He now produces custom, durable leather gear for firefighters and employs local part-time workers while shipping nationwide.

Root Cellar will close on Dec.

14 at 1203 Rogers St. for renovations that will create an allergy-inclusive farm-to-store shopping experience and add culinary workshops for families and Alpha-Gal-safe shoppers — subscriptions and holiday turkey orders remain unchanged through Dec. 13.

A local author has published a new children’s book titled Edwin’s Perfect Gift.

The story, completed in six weeks and inspired by childhood moments near Rock Quarry Road, is on sale at Skylark (also available in Spanish as Edwin y El Regalo Perfecto) and online.

Central Bank of Boone County today announces its 2025 limited-edition ornament honoring Boone Hospital Center, originally built in 1921 at 1600 E.

Broadway, designed by artist Steven Bixby as part of a tradition since 1988 celebrating Columbia landmarks.

COMO Magazine released its 2025 ‘Celebration’ issue, featuring memories sparked by a nostalgic Kool and The Gang track (a nod to childhood and local culture).

The piece is tied to the Missouri Women Who Write Retreat and encourages readers to enjoy small moments during the holiday season.

At its meeting Monday night, the Columbia School Board reviewed the annual climate survey results from parents, staff and students to gauge school performance.

The survey showed most students have opportunities to succeed and teachers are well regarded, while some responses call for improved discipline policies (including clearer cellphone rules).

Bird watchers in Columbia can see Bald Eagles during their winter migration from December to February.

Local guides recommend specific viewing spots — residents should check local listings for the best places to watch.

North 10th Street will be closed on Dec.10 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. for HVAC work on The Walnut Building (affecting bus routes) while roundabout construction on Route K is extended to Dec.26 with new phase starting Dec.29.

Downtown parking rates will rise to $1 per hour on Jan.5.

Missouri coach Eli Drinkwitz received a six-year contract extension Monday that boosts his salary annually with a $16 million pool for assistant staff (and includes performance incentives and a one-year rolling extension when the team secures at least eight wins).

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet

7-8:30 p.m. — Jesse Hall Auditorium — Tickets start at $138 — Experience the enchanting performance of the classic holiday ballet filled with magic and joy.

Elf The Musical

2-4 p.m. — Macklanburg Playhouse — Refunds available — Enjoy a whimsical story of Buddy the Elf discovering his true identity in this festive musical.

Elf The Musical

2-4 p.m. — Macklanburg Playhouse — Refunds available up to a week prior — Delight in the holiday spirit with a musical adaptation of a beloved Christmas tale.

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings

6:30-7:30 p.m. — The Historic Grand Ballroom, Tiger Hotel — Tickets Selling Fast — Experience a magical evening of Christmas carols performed by the Lisetso String Quartet under candlelight.

Cassie Twehus' Holiday Favorites

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Runge Nature Center — Free entry — Celebrate the season with festive activities hosted by the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Kansas City Roos vs Missouri Tigers Women's Basketball

2-9:59 p.m. — Mizzou Arena — Ticket prices vary — Witness an exciting matchup between local collegiate teams on the basketball court.

Wildlife: Fireside Stories

10-11 a.m. — Runge Nature Center — Free entry — Enjoy captivating winter tales around a cozy outdoor fire.

New Year’s Eve Pawty

10 AM – 2 PM — Premium Pets — Free entry — Celebrate the New Year with sparkling beverages for both humans and pups at a festive backdrop.