Manuel Pruitt+FollowColumbia pets get a holiday boost from local photographerNothing brightens a shelter pet’s chances like a great photo! In Columbia, Junebug Photography is teaming up with local rescues to capture the true personalities of adoptable animals, making it easier for them to find loving homes—even during the tough winter months. These portraits show pets as family members, not just animals behind bars, and shelters say the difference is huge. Would you be more likely to adopt after seeing a pet’s personality shine through in a photo? Let’s talk about how a simple picture can change a life! #Entertainment #Painting #ColumbiaMO00Share
Annette Jones+FollowColumbia’s wild toaster steak cookout sparks new friendshipsSteaks cooked in toasters? That’s exactly what happened at Stephens Lake Park, where a group of locals ditched the grill and fired up their toasters for a quirky community cookout. What started as a Reddit post turned into a gathering of curious strangers, all eager to test the limits of kitchen appliances and meet new people. Even a wedding couldn’t stop the fun—everyone just packed up and moved to another pavilion. The best part? Folks left with new friends, full bellies, and plans to do it all again next year. Would you try a toaster steak, or is this a step too far? #Food #ColumbiaMO #Community00Share
Richard Jones+FollowColumbia’s Harbor House shifts to recovery hubBig changes are coming for Columbia’s unhoused community—Harbor House is stepping up as more than just a shelter. With a new opportunity campus on the way, Harbor House will soon offer recovery programs, health screenings, cooking classes, and job skills training. The aim? To create a supportive space where people can focus on sobriety and build a path to independence. Residents will have real accountability and a chance to save money, all while getting the support they need. What do you think—will this new approach make a real difference for those struggling with homelessness and addiction in Columbia? #Safety #ColumbiaMO #Homelessness00Share
Tanya Jackson+FollowFree cat adoptions in Columbia after shelter illnessCentral Missouri Humane Society is waiving all cat adoption fees through Dec. 26 after a contagious upper respiratory illness spread among their cats. This move isn’t just about finding homes—it’s a crucial step to help slow the illness and keep the cats comfortable while they recover. Every cat up for adoption is already spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. If you’ve ever thought about adopting or fostering, now’s the time to make a real difference for these animals and help the shelter community bounce back. Who’s thinking about bringing home a new furry friend? #Pets #ColumbiaMO #CatAdoption00Share
Michael Alvarez+FollowColumbia pizza spot’s quick closure sparks food safety talkA fire suppression system failure shut down Little Caesar’s on W. Broadway for a day, highlighting just how fast things can change for our favorite local eats. The quick response from inspectors and the fire department meant the pizza was back in action within 24 hours, but it’s a reminder of how crucial these behind-the-scenes checks are. Other local spots faced their own issues, from soiled ice machines to food safety slip-ups. What do you think—should restaurants be more transparent about inspection results? Would you want to know before you order? #Food #ColumbiaMO #FoodSafety00Share
jenna64+FollowColumbia’s new school is built for kids, not the other way aroundEagle Bluffs Elementary is set to change the way Columbia kids experience school. This $36 million, two-story building is designed with safety and creativity in mind—think storm shelter gym, color-themed learning pods, and tons of natural light. Every piece of furniture is on wheels, so classrooms can be rearranged for any activity. The cafeteria feels more like a cool hangout, and there are three ADA-accessible playgrounds. With space for 740 students, it’s all about making learning collaborative and fun. What do you think—will this flexible, student-first design help kids thrive? #Education #ColumbiaMO #SchoolDesign00Share
Marcia Hamilton+FollowColumbia’s holiday spirit: A mom’s new startA Columbia mom’s journey just took a hopeful turn—thanks to the generosity of local businesses, Cirrie Sharp received a fully restored car right before the holidays. After a crash derailed her plans and left her without transportation, Sharp had to pause her dream of becoming a nursing assistant. Now, with a safe ride and gifts for her kids, she’s ready to get back to class and rebuild her future. It’s incredible to see how community support can truly change lives. What are your thoughts on local businesses stepping up like this? #Safety #ColumbiaMO #CommunitySupport00Share
Jennifer Rojas+FollowCharlotte flights coming to Columbia in 2026!Direct flights from Columbia to Charlotte are finally on the horizon! Starting June 4, 2026, American Airlines will launch a nonstop route connecting Columbia Regional Airport (COU) with Charlotte. This means easier getaways, quicker business trips, and more travel options right from our own backyard. No more long drives to other airports for that East Coast connection! How do you think this new route will change travel for folks in mid-Missouri? Will it make your trips easier or open up new opportunities? Let’s hear your thoughts! #News #ColumbiaMO #TravelNews00Share
QuantumQuokka+FollowColumbia College’s big leap for future nursesColumbia College is stepping up its game for nursing students with a $150,000 grant to buy a cutting-edge nursing simulator. This means students will get to practice real-life medical scenarios in a safe, hands-on way—think of it as a flight simulator, but for nurses. The college is also investing in major upgrades to Federal Hall, aiming to bring all nursing classes under one roof by 2026. These moves aren’t just about shiny new tech—they’re about giving future nurses the skills and confidence to care for our community. What do you think: Will this change how we train healthcare workers? #Education #College #ColumbiaMO00Share
Hannah Garcia+FollowColumbia’s holiday food drive powers up community impactEvery dollar and can donated today at Columbia Mall or Buchheits in Jefferson City is stretching further than you might think—just $1 can provide three meals for local families. The Food Bank’s One for One Holiday Drive is back, and it’s a real lifeline for neighbors across 32 counties. The most-needed items? Think canned meats, fruits, soups, boxed meals, and peanut butter. Last year, the drive raised over $78,000, fueling more than 145 agencies and 200 schools. If you’re able, even a small donation can make a huge difference for someone’s holiday table. How do you like to give back this season? #Safety #ColumbiaMO #HolidayGiving00Share