Community
Community coverage from Statewide and across the region.
Recent coverage

General Store at Cooper's Landing will open in May
A new general store will open this month at Cooper's Landing, providing retail services and facilities to the public. It will offer food, beverages, and amenities including showers, restrooms, and an event space.
Missourians' Public and Private Actions May Not Align
Observations indicate a potential discrepancy between individuals' declared public stances and their private behaviors. This phenomenon highlights a complex aspect of human conduct within the state.

Editorial Cartoonist John Darkow Publishes New Work
Opinion cartoonist John Darkow recently released new material. His latest work is now available for review and commentary.

Local actor finds fulfillment on stage
Amanda Swaim, a Columbia Entertainment Company actor, recently brought life to the role of LaVonda DuPree in the March production of "Sordid Lives." Swaim expresses that theatrical performances contribute significantly to her personal happiness.

Editorial Cartoon Highlights Vote on City Services
Political cartoonist John Darkow created an editorial cartoon, titled 'Only Voting for Essential City Services.' The cartoon presents a visual commentary on citizen priorities regarding municipal funding.
Ashland starts curbside recycling program
Ashland residents now have access to curbside recycling services. This initiative aims to address a long-standing need for more accessible recycling options in the community.

Missouri Considers Future of Nuclear Power Plant Funding
The method of financing new nuclear power plants is a recurring debate in Missouri. High development costs contribute to ongoing discussions regarding funding models.
Kansas City School Closure Highlights State Housing Challenges
A former school building in Kansas City now sits vacant, symbolizing broader housing access issues across Missouri. Its current state reflects a statewide struggle with housing availability and affordability.
Missourians Commemorate Memorial Day
Statewide observances across Missouri honored military personnel who died serving the United States. Communities reflected on the sacrifices made for the nation's defense.

Columbia High Schools Celebrate 2024 Graduations
Four Columbia Public Schools high schools, including Douglass, Hickman, Battle, and Rock Bridge, recently held commencement ceremonies for their graduating classes. Speakers at the events acknowledged students' dedication and anticipated their future endeavors.

Editorial Cartoonist John Darkow Comments on Cost of Living
Missouri's John Darkow provided an editorial cartoon this week. His latest work addresses the current affordability of goods and services.
Joplin Marks 15 Years Since Devastating Tornado
This month marks 15 years since an EF-5 tornado struck Joplin, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The community has made significant recovery efforts since the 2011 disaster.
St. Louis Water Division Addresses Water Main Leak in Southern Area
Crews from the St. Louis Water Division recently completed repairs on a water main break in the southern part of the city. The necessary repairs impacted local water service.
Missourians mark Congressman Jerry Litton's legacy at memorial event
Officials will host a remembrance event for former U.S. Representative Jerry Litton on August 3 in Chillicothe. The public gathering honors the congressman who died in a 1976 plane crash while campaigning for U.S. Senate.
St. Louis Police Department Honors Fallen Officers at Annual Memorial Breakfast
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department hosted its 40th annual Memorial Breakfast today, commemorating officers who died in the line of duty. Family members and colleagues gathered to remember the 169 officers lost since 1863.
Pike County Expands Broadband Access for Residents and Businesses
Spectrum has broadened its internet services to include additional homes and businesses in Pike County. This expansion directly addresses the need for enhanced connectivity across the region.
Labor Group Proposes Pension Fund Investment for Kansas City Affordable Housing
A coalition of labor unions in Kansas City suggests investing workers' pension funds to increase the availability of affordable housing. This initiative aims to address a critical need for accessible housing options within the city.

Religious Celebration Planned for Columbia Streets
Local residents will hold a public procession and vocal celebration in Columbia. Participants aim to share their religious beliefs about the resurrection.
Portion of South Robbie Forbis Road to Close for Culvert Installation
South Robbie Forbis Road will close to traffic between Route Y and Hunters Bend Road. The closure will occur from 7 a.m. on June 1 to 4:30 p.m. on June 3 for culvert replacement.

Ashland Garden Club Selects May 'Yard of the Month' Award Recipients
The Ashland Garden Club recognized Greg and Tami Foutch for their landscaping efforts. Their property at 600 Caspian Circle received the May 'Yard of the Month' honor.
Missourians weigh diverse perspectives on Fourth of July celebrations
Some Missouri residents opt out of Independence Day festivities due to concerns about social inclusivity. These individuals believe the holiday's celebrations should encompass all citizens.
Missouri Lottery Releases Winning Numbers for May 19 Drawing
The Missouri Lottery announced the winning numbers for the Mega Millions and Pick 3 games held on May 19. Players can check their tickets against the officially drawn figures.
Missouri Department of Conservation Works to Reestablish Elk Population
State conservation efforts are focusing on the reintroduction and management of elk across Missouri. The initiative aims to restore a sustainable wild elk herd within suitable habitats.
Missouri Lottery Announces Powerball, Pick 3 Results
The Missouri Lottery released the winning numbers for the Powerball and Pick 3 drawings held on May 16, 2026. Players can check their tickets against the official results.
Hickman baseball defeats Tolton in regular season closer
Hickman High School's baseball team secured a 6-3 victory over Tolton Catholic in their final regular-season game. The Columbia intracity matchup concluded before both teams advance to postseason play.
Missouri Autism Center Plans Expansion
The Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders is undertaking a significant expansion. This initiative aims to improve and broaden autism care services across Missouri.

Editorial Cartoon Features Local News
Political cartoonist John Darkow created an editorial cartoon. The artwork comments on current events.

Latino student group at MU asserts continued campus presence
University of Missouri's student association for Latino Americans (ALAS) states that a recent defunding decision will not diminish their presence or activities on campus. The organization affirmed its intention to maintain its role despite the funding cut.

Rock Bridge Boys Volleyball Defeats Battle High School in Four Sets
Rock Bridge High School's boys volleyball team secured a victory over Battle High School on the road. The Bruins won the opening two sets and ultimately claimed the match in four sets.
Storms Cause Widespread Power Outages in Mid-Missouri
Severe weather on Sunday left hundreds of residents in central Missouri without electricity. Utility crews are working to restore service to all affected areas.
Artificial Intelligence Error Generates False School Shooting Alert Statewide
An AI system recently issued an erroneous alert regarding a school shooting incident, causing widespread concern. This technical malfunction affected multiple locations across Missouri.
Des Peres Mayor Recognizes Local Eagle Scouts
The Des Peres mayor recently commended several young men for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. This recognition highlights their extensive community service and leadership efforts.
Missouri Lottery Announces Pick 3 and Pick 4 Winning Numbers
The Missouri Lottery released the winning numbers for its Pick 3 and Pick 4 games on April 26, 2026. Players can check their tickets to determine if they won a prize.
Southeast Missouri Group Plans April Autism Awareness Event
Autism Awareness of Southeast Missouri will host a Color Walk & Roll on April 26. The event aims to promote understanding and acceptance for individuals with autism.
St. Louis apartment residents experience extended water outages
Tenants in several St. Louis apartment complexes report experiencing multiple days without water service. These intermittent outages have impacted daily routines for numerous residents.

Columbia Journalists Recount White House Correspondents' Dinner Incident
Three University of Missouri student reporters attended a formal Washington D.C. event that concluded with nearby gunfire. The Columbia-based journalists detailed their experience at the White House Correspondents' Dinner.
Columbia Hosts Annual Earth Day Event Downtown
Hundreds of people gathered in downtown Columbia for the city's yearly Earth Day celebration. The event featured numerous vendors and educational opportunities focused on environmental sustainability.
Missouri City Offers Southern Charm with Historic Downtown and Local Attractions
Cape Girardeau, Missouri, located between St. Louis and Memphis, features a historic downtown district. The city also provides visitors with diverse culinary options and rodeo events.
Kansas City Neighborhood Recognized for Walkability
Pendleton Heights, a historic Kansas City neighborhood, earns distinction for its pedestrian-friendly environment. The area's design facilitates easy access to local amenities by foot.
Stanberry Residents Mobilize After EF-1 Tornado Strikes
The community of Stanberry is organizing recovery efforts following an EF-1 tornado that caused significant damage. Volunteers and local officials are clearing debris and providing assistance to affected areas in the northwest Missouri town.
Featured reporting

Downtown Springfield’s historic square enters a new chapter
Three new restaurants and a boutique hotel are slated to open by summer, the latest phase of a long revitalization push.

St. Charles moves to expand historic district along Main Street
Preservationists called the vote a milestone, while some property owners pushed back over new design rules.
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