Good morning, Columbia.

Mid-Missouri homeless services are preparing for more people to need shelter as frigid weather is expected over the weekend.

The Salvation Army Harbor House and Room at the Inn are offering shelter and urging donations of winter coats and accessories (boots, hats, gloves, scarves) to help those at risk.

KOMU 8 News has compiled a list of holiday hours for mid-Missouri stores and restaurants on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

In Columbia, selected locations such as Walgreens and Starbucks operate with adjusted schedules (details available before planning your visit).

Columbia’s only outdoor ice-skating rink starts its second season and will host Santa Claus for a skating event from noon until 4 p.m. on Sunday (located near Father Tolton High School on Discovery Parkway).

Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. Utility Solutions will build a 60,000 sqft distribution center on 8 acres in Boonville, investing $7 million to support utilities in five states and create six local jobs.

Local contractor Coil will lead the project.

At its second STEM Goes Red event, the American Heart Association introduced Columbia's eighth grade girls to STEM careers through hands-on activities in science, technology & math.

At Gentry Middle School, secretary Tranikia Thompson, known as Mama Gentry, cheers on over 700 students while graduating today with a double bachelor’s degree from Columbia College.

She plans to pursue a master’s degree in business administration to further support the school community.

Columbia's Utility Assistance Program asked for $200,000 extra funding on Nov.

24 after nearly all of its $600,000 budget for fiscal year 2026 was spent amid rising winter utility use and more applicants (including seniors, people with disabilities and families) as it aims to support Boone County residents facing costs.

After the Kroenke Group’s letter on Sept.

19, the City removed a bus shelter and trash container from the bus stop at 21 Conley Road to address concerns about excessive trash and noise. The stop remains active for about 600 riders monthly — local commuters have expressed worry about protection during bad weather.

The CDC identified a new severe flu variant (subclade K) in Boone County and urged residents to get vaccinated even though flu cases are low statewide.

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.

MO Rock Fest

7-8:30 p.m. — The Blue Note — Cashless venue — Enjoy an evening of live rock music in Columbia's popular venue.