Community
Community coverage from Statewide and across the region.
Recent coverage
Historic 1881 Sturgeon church relocated to Columbia's Nifong Park
Crews transported a 145-year-old church from Sturgeon to south Columbia, establishing its permanent home in Nifong Park. The 19th-century structure will join other preserved local landmarks at the Boone County Historical Center's village.
Longtime Columbia Restaurateur Barbara Cheek Dies at 86
Longtime Columbia restaurant owner Barbara Cheek died Oct. 8 at the age of 86. She spent decades operating dining establishments across the local community.
Columbia resident and native of France Francoise Bien dies
Francoise Bien, a Columbia resident who was born in France, died on Sunday, Sept. 20. She was born on Sept. 15, 1938, before later relocating to mid-Missouri.
Columbia Resident Raymond E. Perkins Dies at 79
Raymond E. Perkins died at his residence on Oct. 13, 2026. He was 79 years old.
Columbia resident Matthew Parman Wood dies at 54
Columbia resident Matthew Parman Wood died on Thursday following a battle with cancer. He was 54 years old.
Today marks deadline for Progress and Kindness Award submissions
Today is the final opportunity to submit nominations for the Progress and Kindness Awards. Community members recognize individuals and organizations demonstrating dedication to social well-being.
Editorial Cartoonist Shares Political Commentary
Political cartoonist John Darkow presents a new editorial cartoon. The illustration offers commentary on a current event or issue.
Victim shares decades-long impact of sexual assault, Cornell case prompts reflection
A survivor recounts the lasting effects of sexual assault, prompted by recent attention on the Cornell University case. The individual’s experience highlights the challenges of processing such trauma years later.
Missouri Independent Earns Investigative Award for Foster Care Reporting
Reporters at the Missouri Independent received the prestigious John Jay-Harry Frank Guggenheim Award for Excellence in Criminal Justice Reporting. Their in-depth series examined challenges within the state's foster care system.
CDC report provides focused view of youth behavior
A recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report offers a more specific analysis of health trends among young people. The updated approach aims to gather more pertinent data on teen well-being.
Independence residents review candidates for police chief position
The city of Independence hosted public forums to introduce the final candidates for its next police chief. Community members met with the contenders to provide feedback on their selection.
New traffic signal, school zone approved near Thornton Elementary
State officials authorized a new traffic signal installation and designated school zone near Thornton Elementary School. The measures aim to enhance student safety during school hours.
Rural Missourians face reduced access to maternity care
Maternity care services are decreasing in rural Missouri, forcing expectant parents to travel farther for obstetric services. This trend may increase health risks for mothers and babies in these areas.
Statewide 9/11 Observance Focuses on Unity, Remembering Victims
Missourians gathered across the state today to commemorate the 22nd anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks. Events honored those who died and reflected on the nation's resilience in the aftermath of tragedy.
Cartoonist critiques economic impact of $5,000 dividend checks
A recent editorial cartoon by John Darkow offers a visual commentary on the perceived value of a $5,000 dividend payment. The artwork suggests the sum may be insufficient to cover everyday expenses like fuel costs.
Missourians Reflect on 25 Years Since September 11 Attacks
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, prompting nationwide reflection. Missouri residents and officials commemorate the somber event and its lasting impact.
Columbia roadwork prompts I-70, U.S. 63 lane reductions and roundabout construction
Motorists in Columbia will experience traffic changes due to ongoing road construction projects. Work includes lane reductions on I-70 and U.S. 63, alongside new roundabout construction at Fairview and Chapel Hill roads.
Medical professionals observe health impacts on children involved in immigration cases
Physicians are noting health challenges affecting children who experience immigration-related activities. These healthcare professionals report increased physical and mental stress among this demographic.
Columbia Cyclists Participate in Evening Illuminated Ride
Cyclists journeyed from Flat Branch Park to Twin Lakes Recreation Area on lit trails in Columbia. The event, called Kaleidospoke, highlighted the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail.
Editorial cartoon published
Political cartoonist John Darkow presented his latest work for statewide readers. The editorial cartoon offers visual commentary on current events.
Missouri observes national decline in veteran homelessness amid rising numbers in some states
Data from 2023 shows a significant national reduction in homelessness among U.S. veterans, reaching its lowest point on record. However, half of states, including Missouri, reported an increase in their veteran homeless populations.
Hartsburg Resident Virgil Jeffery Dies at 61
Virgil Kent Jeffery, a 61-year-old resident of Hartsburg, died on August 8, 2026. He passed away in Westphalia, Missouri.
Editorial cartoon reflects on local development
Political cartoonist John Darkow created an editorial cartoon this week. The artwork comments on a community's reaction to a new development project, expressing relief about its nature.
Columbia modelers complete projects in tribute to late member
Central Missouri Scale Modelers are finishing projects initiated by Jack Andrewson, a deceased club member. The organization will honor Andrewson and display these works at the upcoming TigerCon event in November.
Former Columbia City Manager Details City History in New Memoir
Ray Beck, a former city manager, released a new book chronicling Columbia's development from his perspective. The publication offers insights into various city initiatives and events during his tenure.
Road closures planned for South Sinclair Road, Clark Lane in Columbia
Drivers in Columbia should anticipate upcoming road closures. South Sinclair Road will close for repairs, and the Clark Lane roundabout will also be temporarily inaccessible.
South Columbia sunflower fields open to public viewing
Sunflowers at the University of Missouri's South Farm in Columbia are currently blooming. The public can view the fields in phases through September.
Editorial Cartoon Features Local Artist's Work
This editorial cartoon showcases the work of local artist John Darkow. The piece acknowledges Simon Rose, suggesting a tribute or recognition.
Editorial Cartoon Addresses Community Risk Factors
John Darkow's latest editorial cartoon highlights public health and safety concerns. The visual commentary prompts reflection on shared societal responsibilities.
Columbia cinema hosts craft event during film screening
Ragtag Cinema organized a crafting activity during a recent movie showing. This event aligns with a national trend of combining crafting with cinema, sometimes known as "Knit-Flix" or "Reel Crafts."
Missouri sees rise in drug-resistant fungal infections
Healthcare facilities across Missouri report a growing number of patients contracting a drug-resistant fungal infection. This disease poses a significant risk to individuals with weakened immune systems.
Cartoon explores debate on public safety and individual privacy
A recent editorial cartoon by John Darkow visually represents the ongoing discussion between public safety measures and individual privacy rights. The piece offers a visual commentary on the complex balance between these societal interests.
Columbia resident Hazel Janell Woods passes away at 99
Hazel Janell Woods, a longtime Columbia resident, died on August 7 at the age of 99. Her life spanned nearly a century.
HIV Funding Cuts Strain Kansas City Health Services
Reduced federal funding for HIV services is impacting Kansas City's safety net providers. These budget decreases challenge local organizations offering critical support for individuals living with HIV.
Columbia explores reducing utility aid, reviews initial 2027 budget proposal
The Columbia City Council recently examined a potential decrease in residential utility assistance. Council members also began their review of the city's proposed budget for the 2027 fiscal year.
Columbia Doctor Crafts Glass Art
A Columbia obstetrician-gynecologist and interim pastor creates glass marbles by hand. He dedicates his personal time to this artistic pursuit.
Columbia Traffic Delays Expected for I-70 Exit and Providence Road
Motorists in Columbia will encounter temporary disruptions as the I-70/St. Charles Road exit ramps close for maintenance. Additionally, North Providence Road will experience lane closures, impacting local traffic flow.
Study Links Wildfire Smoke Exposure to Pregnancy Complications
Research indicates wildfire smoke has become a significant environmental pollutant impacting pregnant individuals. Exposure to these pollutants is associated with adverse maternal and fetal health outcomes.
Hinkson Creek Restoration Efforts Fall Short
Environmental records indicate Hinkson Creek remains unsafe for public recreation, despite a cleanup initiative launched in 2012. Over a decade of restoration work has produced limited improvements in water quality.
Editorial cartoon published
The Missouri Dispatch features an editorial cartoon by John Darkow. The artwork offers a visual commentary on current events.
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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