jharvey+FollowColumbia’s outdoor ice rink brings winter magicColumbia’s only outdoor ice-skating rink is back for its second season, and it’s quickly becoming a local favorite. After more than four decades without a public rink, families and friends are lacing up their skates and making new winter memories. The team at Kitchen Grill and Games has worked around the clock to keep the ice just right—even pulling all-nighters to make sure it’s perfect. This Sunday, you can even skate with Santa himself! With cold temps in the forecast, it’s the perfect time to bundle up, grab some hot chocolate, and enjoy a true winter experience right here in town. Who’s planning to check it out? #Sports #ColumbiaMO #IceSkating00Share
Emily Delgado+FollowHow Columbia neighbors are helping the homelessEvery week in Columbia, volunteers with the CoMo Mobile Aid Collective are making a real difference for people facing homelessness. From prepping hearty Thanksgiving meals to handing out camping gear for winter, these folks go beyond just providing food—they’re building community and dignity. One volunteer, Bill, says it’s all about empathy and giving back, while Richard, who’s been homeless himself, reminds us that anyone can end up in tough times. The collective even offers showers and a wardrobe area. It’s inspiring to see neighbors stepping up. What more could our community do to support each other? #Safety #ColumbiaMO #CommunitySupport00Share
aguilarallison+FollowColumbia restaurants act fast on health fixesRestaurant inspections in Columbia are showing a real commitment to food safety—most places are fixing issues the same day they’re found. From tossing out single-use items that got reused, to adding hand-drying stations and date labels, local spots aren’t waiting around to make things right. Some places still have a few things to tackle, like cleaning up coolers or fixing ceiling tiles, but the quick action on critical problems is reassuring. How do you feel about the transparency of these reports? Does seeing fast fixes make you more likely to support local restaurants? #Health #BodyHealth #ColumbiaMO00Share
Ryan Horne+FollowColumbia’s Restaurant Week brings food and hopeColumbia’s winter Restaurant Week isn’t just about discovering new favorite dishes—it’s a chance to make a real difference for neighbors facing hunger. From Jan. 30 to Feb. 8, when you dine out at one of 30+ local spots, you’re also supporting the Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri. With one in seven Missourians food insecure, this event goes beyond great meals; it’s about coming together as a community. Plus, you can easily donate right at your table. Which restaurants are you excited to try, and how do you think food brings people together in Columbia? #Food #ColumbiaMO #RestaurantWeek00Share
kerryrivera+FollowColumbia schools get big boost for studentsColumbia’s public schools just got a major shot in the arm—over $194,000 in grants are heading to 37 schools, all aimed at making a real difference for more than 15,700 students. This isn’t just about new supplies or tech; it’s about listening to what each school actually needs to help kids thrive, from preschool to high school. It’s exciting to see the community investing directly in classrooms. What changes or improvements would you love to see in your local school if you had a say in how this funding is used? #Safety #ColumbiaMO #PublicSchools00Share
Benjamin Contreras+FollowMeet the heart of Gentry Middle SchoolEvery morning at Gentry Middle School, students are greeted with the warmth and encouragement of Tranikia Thompson—better known as “Mama Gentry.” She’s not just the principal’s secretary; she’s the school’s biggest cheerleader, always showing up for kids whether it’s in the hallways or at their games. Her energy and compassion have made a real difference, with students and staff saying she makes Gentry feel like home. Now, as she celebrates earning two bachelor’s degrees, her commitment to lifting others up is inspiring the whole community. How has someone like Mama Gentry made a difference in your life? #Education #ColumbiaMO #GentryMiddle00Share
Marcia Hamilton+FollowColumbia families team up with local heroesSeeing kids and first responders shopping side by side at Columbia’s Walmarts this week really brings home what community is all about. Thirty Boone County families got to pick out gifts and essentials with police officers and firefighters, turning a simple shopping trip into a chance to build real connections. It’s not just about the presents—it’s about breaking down barriers and showing kids that first responders are neighbors, too. Events like this remind us how small acts of kindness can spark big changes in how we see each other. What do you think—could more events like this help strengthen our community? #Safety #ColumbiaMO #CommunityMatters00Share
Timothy Bird+FollowColumbia’s airport bets big on new flightsColumbia Regional Airport is rolling the dice on new flight routes, hoping to turn around last year’s $3.2 million operating loss. More flight options could mean more travelers, more revenue, and maybe even lower fares for locals. It’s a bold move that could reshape how we travel in and out of mid-Missouri. Will these new flights finally put COU in the black? Or is it just another gamble? Curious to hear how folks feel about the airport’s future and if these changes will actually make a difference for our community. #Business #ColumbiaMO #AirportNews00Share
kellydesiree+FollowColumbia’s rescued dogs finally homeSeeing the rescued dogs from that Boone County breeder finally back with their families is a huge relief for so many in Columbia. The Central Missouri Humane Society worked tirelessly to care for these pups after one of the county’s worst animal abuse cases. Staff say it was bittersweet to say goodbye, but watching those reunions made it all worth it. There are still a few puppies waiting to find their original owners, but the hope is none will go unclaimed. It’s a powerful reminder of how resilient animals can be—and how much our community cares. What do you think should happen next for animal welfare here? #Pets #ColumbiaMO #AnimalRescue20Share
Allen Rios+FollowColumbia’s EquipmentShare aims for Nasdaq debutEquipmentShare, started by two local brothers frustrated with the lack of rental equipment in construction, just filed to go public—right from Columbia. With nearly 8,000 employees and $3.76 billion in revenue this year, their IPO could put our city on the map as a serious business hub. This move isn’t just about raising money; it’s a huge signal that Columbia can grow companies with national impact. What do you think—will this change how people see Columbia as a place for big business? #Business #Market #ColumbiaMO00Share
