Good morning, Columbia.

Eight local homeless people were commemorated at the annual Salvation Army event today where community leaders (from shelters and churches) highlighted continued support for those in need.

Powerhouse Community Development provided holiday boxes with age-specific toys and essentials to more than 400 families on Monday in Columbia.

The organization partnered with local schools, Toys for Tots, and Spread your Wings to ease holiday stress for parents and kids.

7th grader Vyla Hamler from Thomas Jefferson Middle School won JC Parks’ Guaranteed White Christmas contest after entering at Washington Park Ice Arena — a dump truck delivered snow to her driveway in time for Christmas.

Her family will enjoy the snow before it melts, adding cheer to their holiday break.

Columbia College named Toby Arquette as its 19th president effective March 1 after being chosen from over 100 candidates.

Arquette, currently at St. Ambrose University (Davenport), succeeds retiring president David Russell.

Missouri joined 49 states Monday in announcing a $149.7 million settlement with Mercedes-Benz after regulators found the company used illegal software to bypass emissions controls & will receive about $3.15 million while affected vehicle owners may get $2,000 as the automaker installs approved fixes.

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.

Intro to Longarm Quilting Class

6-8 p.m. — MACCLab | A Community Makerspace — All materials provided — Learn the basics of longarm quilting and create a small tapestry in this engaging two-hour workshop.

Auburn Tigers at Missouri Tigers Basketball

6-8 p.m. — Mizzou Arena — Cost info not provided — Watch the Auburn Tigers take on the Missouri Tigers in an exciting college basketball matchup.

Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Missouri Tigers Women's Basketball

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Mizzou Arena — Ticket prices vary — Witness a thrilling clash between the Arkansas Razorbacks and Missouri Tigers on the basketball court.

University of Missouri Hockey vs. University of Nebraska

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Washington Park Ice Arena — Ticket information varies — Catch an exciting hockey game as the University of Missouri faces off against the University of Nebraska.

Celebration of Missouri Food and Wine

6-9 p.m. — COMO Marketing — Tickets required — Experience a four-course tasting menu by renowned Columbia chefs highlighting local cuisine and wine.