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Articles by Siobhan Conners
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Shaw Media file photo Caption Like many other public farms, Dollinger Family Farm has a pumpkin patch and expansive gift shop.With much to explore in every season, visitors at Starved Rock State Park are enchanted by its natural wonders.Perfect for a getaway is the Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center, as well as its rustic cabins, at the heart of the state park.This year will be brightened by the Virtual Glass Pumpkin Patch, comprised of hand-blown artwork available for purchase through...
Celebrating St. Patrick's Day the COMO way
If you're planning on celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Columbia this year, you're in luck! There are enough activities, events and specials around town that you're guaranteed to find a fun way to be Irish for a day. Megan McConachie, Strategic Communications Manager for the Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau, says that going down into the District is always a fun way to spend the holiday."A lot of different places have stuff going on," she says. In other words, there's something for everyone.
Eryca Neville, creating a village of support for students
Eyrca Neville hated school. Although she said that teaching is “in her blood”—her mother and grandmother worked in education— she felt like she didn’t have a place at school. She was a member of the first generation in her family to attend an integrated school. She came to Columbia in 1987 to attend MU and majored in marketing and economics with a minor in black studies. It was through those disciplines that she realized there was a direct connection between education and economic prosperity.
How to get out of debt: Columbia residents share their success stories
Baylee Konen Jim Green: He teaches personal finance Jim Green has always been good at math. In 2003, he took one of Dave Ramsey’s financial classes, which helps participants figure out how to budget and pay off debt. This class made Green realize he wanted to teach others about finance.
Learning to cope: why some people self-injure and how to recover from it
An MU freshman, Lindsey Epperson has lived with anxiety and depression for years. In high school, she struggled with suicidal thoughts and self-isolation. When she was at her lowest, she turned to self-injuring. Even during the summer when shorts and sleeveless tank tops were unavoidable, she continued to self-injure, but in less visible ways. Epperson’s plight is not unique. Dr. Arpit Aggarwal, a psychiatrist at MU Health Care, says 10 to 15% of teens admit to having self-injured at least once.
NHS should ditch pen and paper for email, says Health Secretary
Hancock sees "no reason" the NHS shouldn't run on email like the rest of the world The NHS must replace traditional pen and paper communication with email in order to be more secure and efficient, Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock has touted. In a speech at an NHS England conference, Hancock said the NHS needs to incorporate modern technology in order to best serve patients.
10 things to do in mid-Missouri this weekend
Usually, death and dinner parties don’t mix well together. In Neil Simon’s dark comedy “Rumors,” the Deputy Mayor of New York shoots himself just before guests arrive at his home, and his wife and lawyer are left to deal with the aftermath. You can see what happens for yourself during its final four performances at the Maplewood Barn Community Theatre this weekend. When: 8 to 10:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. Where: Maplewood Barn Community Theatre. Cost: $10 for adults, $3 for children.
Folk icon John Prine to take main stage at Roots N Blues
In 1970, 23-year-old John Prine was a mailman who sang his original songs on open-mic night at a Chicago folk club called The Fifth Peg. The first three songs Prine sang on stage were “Sam Stone,” “Hello in There” and “Paradise.” No one in the audience applauded. They simply stared. Fifty years later, those songs have become some of Prine’s most famous, and he’s had no shortage of applause throughout his decades-spanning career.
Lime vs. Bird: The ultimate Columbia scooter showdown
If you thought Columbia was already packed to the brim with electric scooters, think again. The city somehow made room for Lime scooters, which dropped in town on Oct. 29. According to the Lime website, the rideshare company “is founded on the simple idea that all communities deserve access to smart, affordable mobility,” and the company has spread its scooters to more than 100 different international and national cities.
Lessons learned: School House B&B owners have loved their Rocheport adventure
ROCHEPORT — In 1914, when the Rocheport school was built, the bell was mounted right up top. Its toll could be heard throughout the community and well beyond, a symbol of how much the school mattered to the area.Rocheport children go to school in New Franklin now, but the historic building is still an important part of the community.
City picnic honors volunteers and their service
When Aaron Hill, 16, moved to Columbia in sixth grade, his parents pushed him to get out and make connections in his new town.
Neighbors upset with Odle firing range take case to county commission
This is an undated aerial view of a shooting range on property owned by Bruce Odle in northeastern Boone County. Neighbors say the range violates county zoning codes and that the shooting is dangerous. Odle's representatives, however, say he's in full compliance. From Boone County Assessor's parcel viewer It was November 2016, and Troy Shoop's son-in-law was sitting on his deer stand near the south end of Shoop's 130-acre agricultural property near Hallsville.
Salvage sale offers original finds and glimpses into Columbia's past
Last year, Josh Wexler came to the Columbia Historic Preservation Commission’s Architectural Salvage Sale as a customer. This year, he arrived as one of the featured artisans.Wexler owns DrinKraft, a new kombucha bar in the North Village Arts District. He used some of his haul — which included old radiators, lightbulbs and materials from the Bull Pen Cafe— to furbish it.Wexler said the pieces lend themselves to the bar’s vibe.
Hartzler seeks to extend tenure as 4th District congresswoman
Vicky Hartzler is seeking a fifth term as Missouri’s 4th District U.S. representative. She was a state representative for six years before making her first bid for Congress in 2010.
Webb makes third bid to unseat Hartzler
Above all else, John Webb values the U.S. Constitution. He’s running to represent Missouri’s 4th Congressional District because he believes incumbent Vicky Hartzler has expanded the government’s power during her four terms in Congress. John Webb Photo Courtesy of John Webb “In order for the government to grow in power,” Webb said, “it takes power away from you.”Webb is running against Hartzler for the third time.
Louis Nelson built bridges, created legacy
Louis Nelson was a professional social butterfly: He could work a room and connect with strangers as if he’d known them for years.Born Sept. 7, 1943, Mr. Nelson was a family man with a warm, welcoming personality that made people feel valued and important. He died Monday at age 74.His daughters Kimberly, Trinia and Jessica Nelson said in a written statement he had a heart of gold and loved to talk about his kids and grandkids.
New works star in Mizzou International Composers Festival
Musicians perfected passages and tweaked measures of new music at an open rehearsal Wednesday of the nationally recognized ensemble Alarm Will Sound.The rehearsal at the Missouri Theatre was part of the ninth annual Mizzou International Composers Festival, which concludes Saturday evening.Since its launch in 2010, the festival has selected eight resident composers from Missouri and around the world.
Archers shoot their way into the competition at Show-Me State Games
MOBERLY — Spencer Barron tickled his gurgling 9-month-old granddaughter, Harper, as she sat in a baby carrier on her mother's back. Her mother, Shelby Barron, was concentrating on hitting the bull's-eye on the target in front of her. Shelby Barron was one of approximately 150 participants in this year's Show-Me State Games 3D archery competition, which took place Sunday morning in Moberly.
Archers shoot their way into Show-Me Games competition
MOBERLY — Spencer Barron tickled his gurgling 9-month-old granddaughter, Harper, as she sat in a baby carrier on her mother's back. Her mother, Shelby Barron, was concentrating on hitting the bull's-eye on the target in front of her. Shelby Barron was one of approximately 150 participants in this year's Show-Me State Games 3D archery competition, which took place Sunday morning in Moberly.
Church volunteers renovate Rainbow House to better serve children
An orange dumpster sat on the Rainbow House driveway Saturday morning to collect cardboard and the last pieces of trash as volunteers moved in and out of the crisis shelter.The Fairview Road Church of Christ’s Mission Columbia ministry was putting the finishing touches on a four-day marathon renovation.
Salvage Sale, Fix-it Fair set for next week
What's old is new again at two events focused on helping Columbia residents restore and repurpose items on Saturday, July 28, according to a city news release.The city's Historic Preservation Commission will hold its annual Architectural Salvage Sale from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 28 at Rock Quarry Park, 2202 Grindstone Parkway.
City Will Collect Trash Before Recycling Starting Friday
A staff shortage is forcing the Columbia Solid Waste Utility to focus on collecting curbside trash first and curbside recycling second beginning Friday. The Household Hazardous Waste Collection scheduled for Saturday has been canceled. In wake of this shortage, collection efforts will focus on trash, then recycling. Residents should place trash and recycling on the curbside as normal. If the recycling isn't collected Friday, you should secure it and leave it to be picked up on Saturday.
City will collect trash before recycling starting Friday
A staff shortage is forcing the Columbia Solid Waste Utility to focus on collecting curbside trash first and curbside recycling second beginning Friday. The Household Hazardous Waste Collection scheduled for Saturday has been canceled. In wake of this shortage, collection efforts will focus on trash, then recycling. Residents should place trash and recycling on the curbside as normal. If the recycling isn't collected Friday, you should secure it and leave it to be picked up on Saturday.
Boone County Fair carnival rides up and running Wednesday
Some carnival attractions at the fair had been marked for “routine” and easily fixable violations during a spot inspection Tuesday, said Mike O’Connell, a Missouri Department of Public Safety spokesman.The inspector noted the following issues:Seats on the swing ride weren’t level, and some safety belts wouldn’t close.On the merry-go-round, the fencing was too close to the ride and cup hooks were facing the wrong way.One car on the kiddie car ride was missing a seat belt.Height requirement...
Carnival at Boone County Fair temporarily shuts down for repairs
Fair schedule WEDNESDAYWhere: Sturgeon Fairgrounds, 403 Jones St.Open: 4-9 p.m.Gate admission: $10, which includes parking, carnival rides, evening events; children 4 and younger freeHighlights• Daily (opens at 4 p.m.): Carnival — Marriott Amusements; craft show and vendors • 9 a.m. 4-H & FFA breeding market goats followed by breeding sheep followed by market goats• 9-11 a.m. Barnyard, hosted by the Ashland FFA and Boone County Farm Bureau• 4 p.m. Fair opens• 4-9 p.m. Kids zone• 5-9 p.m. 4-H...
Boone County Commission takes on fireworks regulation
Fireworks regulations will be discussed Tuesday at a meeting of the Boone County Commission. The meeting begins at 3:30 p.m. at the Roger B. Wilson Boone County Government Center chambers, 801 E. Walnut St. An annual "fireworks war" that has taken place in Columbia was moved this year just over the city line in Boone County. The incident has raised concerns about fireworks use and rules enforcement.During the event, residents shoot fireworks at each other, damaging property and injuring people.
Volunteers explore Columbia, experience nature as they clean the outdoors
Tom Amolsch was panting and dripping sweat, but he smiled as he pushed his newly acquired shopping cart along the gravel path. He had found the cart abandoned alongside the Bear Creek Trail and gave it something useful to do: holding the trash he had picked up earlier that morning. +2 Tom Amolsch finds part of a wooden spool and removes it from the water on Saturday in Bear Creek. Amolsch has been volunteering with a variety of organizations in Columbia for a couple years.
Santa has arrived: Christmas in July brings food and gifts to kids
As the sound of a bell rang through the room on Thursday, children at the Missouri United Methodist Church eagerly looked up from their plates and coloring books.It could only mean one thing: Santa Claus had arrived.Santa and his array of gifts were just one attraction at the Voluntary Action Center’s 27th annual Christmas in July event.
Santa has arrived: Christmas in July brings food and gifts to kids
As the sound of a bell rang through the room on Thursday, children at the Missouri United Methodist Church eagerly looked up from their plates and coloring books.It could only mean one thing: Santa Claus had arrived.Santa and his array of gifts were just one attraction at the Voluntary Action Center’s 27th annual Christmas in July event.
Santa has arrived: Christmas in July brings food and gifts to kids
As the sound of a bell rang through the room on Thursday, children at the Missouri United Methodist Church eagerly looked up from their plates and coloring books.It could only mean one thing: Santa Claus had arrived.Santa and his array of gifts were just one attraction at the Voluntary Action Center’s 27th annual Christmas in July event.
Rovon Blocker remembered as vivacious, caring
When Rovon Blocker entered a room, he brightened the mood of everyone in it.He was a remarkable athlete who also dreamed of becoming a police officer.
Columbia Residents Provide Feedback on Proposed Cross-Country Course
The public took a close look Tuesday night at a proposed cross-country course planned for the Gans Creek Recreation area. Those who came to the presentation at the Gans Creek Recreation Area Concession Building meandered around displays showing proposed masterplans and artist renditions of what the course would look like if approved. They asked questions and gave feedback to the Columbia Parks and Recreation Department.
Rovon Blocker remembered as vivacious, caring
When Rovon Blocker entered a room, he brightened the mood of everyone in it.He was a remarkable athlete who also dreamed of becoming a police officer.
Business Owners Demand More Accountability in Downtown Trash Disposal
Columbia residents and business owners encouraged the city to add more accessible recycling locations downtown during a public meeting Monday night. The purpose of the meeting, held by the Solid Waste Utility, was to brainstorm solutions for trash and recycling collection for those who live and work in an area boxed in by Broadway, Cherry, Eighth and Ninth streets. Nearby businesses include Tellers Gallery and Bar and Broadway Brewery.
Columbia residents provide feedback on proposed cross-country course
The public took a close look Tuesday night at a proposed cross-country course planned for the Gans Creek Recreation area.Those who came to the presentation at the Gans Creek Recreation Area Concession Building meandered around displays showing proposed masterplans and artist renditions of what the course would look like if approved.
Rovon Blocker remembered as vivacious, caring
When Rovon Blocker entered a room, he brightened the mood of everyone in it.He was a remarkable athlete who also dreamed of becoming a police officer.
Public invited to meeting on improving Clyde Wilson Park
Aesthetic improvements to Clyde Wilson Memorial Park will be the focus of a public meeting from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Rollins Street entrance to the park in south-central Columbia.Plans include beautifying the park's entrances on Rollins, Rockhill Road and Wilson Avenue, signs, bike racks, benches, trail improvements and invasive species removal, according to a release from Columbia Parks and Recreation Department.The project's budget is $50,000 and will come from the 2015...
'One huge experience': Columbia teams praise national Special Olympics Games
As Thomas Cleek watched fireworks sparkle above his seat at Husky Stadium in Seattle, he thought it was one the best fireworks shows he'd ever seen.Cleek, 19, was there this past week for the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games. As the Games drew to a close, he and the other two Columbia members of Team Missouri said it's been unforgettable."It's an honor to come to the Games and compete," Cleek said.
Columbia murder suspect shot by police in Overland Park
The man wanted in connection with the May 3 homicide on Greeley Drive was shot and killed by police officers Friday in Overland Park, Kansas, according an Overland Park Police Department news release.The suspect, Charles Webb, 43, was wanted for the murder of Robert Jennings, 43.
Public Invited to Meeting On Improving Clyde Wilson Park
Aesthetic improvements to Clyde Wilson Memorial Park will be the focus of a public meeting from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Rollins Street entrance to the park in south-central Columbia. Plans include beautifying the park's entrances on Rollins, Rockhill Road and Wilson Avenue, signs, bike racks, benches, trail improvements and invasive species removal, according to a release from Columbia Parks and Recreation Department.
City Approves Grants for Wheelchair-Accessible Cabs
Taxi Terry’s will receive $45,000 worth of grants to help buy three wheelchair-accessible cabs. The taxis are intended to allow Columbia residents with disabilities to travel without the time and scheduling restrictions of public transportation. The three taxis will serve all residents of Columbia, not just those with disabilities, for no extra cost. The Columbia City Council approved the grants at its Monday night meeting. The money will come from the fiscal 2018 budget.
Want to Set Off Fireworks? They're Only Allowed in Some Parts of Boone County
Fireworks are a quintessential part of the Fourth of July holiday for many Americans. However, they aren’t always legal to possess or ignite. The list below lays out the rules and regulations for Boone County’s cities. Ashland: Setting off fireworks is illegal, but special fireworks displays are allowed with a permit from the city, according to the Ashland Police Department. Centralia: Fireworks are legal from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. from Sunday through Wednesday, according to the city website.
Fourth of July celebrations move to Lucky's Market; street closures announced
Columbia fireworks enthusiasts will need to bring their blankets and lawn chairs to a new location this year.The annual Fourth of July Fire in the Sky celebration has been moved from Peace Park to Lucky's Market, at 111 S. Providence Road, according to a city news release. The move means a portion of Providence Road will close Wednesday night.The celebration was moved because of a change in guidelines that regulate the distance where fireworks can be set off, event director Karen Chandler said.
Want to set off fireworks? They're only allowed in some parts of Boone County
Fireworks are a quintessential part of the Fourth of July holiday for many Americans. However, they aren’t always legal to possess or ignite.
City approves grants for wheelchair-accessible cabs
Taxi Terry’s will receive $45,000 worth of grants to help buy three wheelchair-accessible cabs.The taxis are intended to allow Columbia residents with disabilities to travel without the time and scheduling restrictions of public transportation. The three taxis will serve all residents of Columbia, not just those with disabilities, for no extra cost.The Columbia City Council approved the grants at its Monday night meeting. The money will come from the fiscal 2018 budget.
Want to set off fireworks on the 4th? Check your town's rules
Fireworks are a quintessential part of the July Fourth holiday for many Americans, but they aren't always legal to possess or ignite.
The naked truth about sending nudes - Tech News | The Star Online
All it takes is one screenshot. Someone's life can be totally destroyed in the blink of an eye. Teens have been sending explicit pictures – sometimes called nudes – to one another practically since cellphones were invented. However, the dawn of Snapchat has made sending nudes a lot more dangerous. "Snapchat allows teens to communicate in the present and quickly with their friends and whoever else they may be talking with," Lisle, Illinois, police officer Sean McKay said.
Movie review: 'The Boss' is classic Melissa
Melissa McCarthy must use some type of matrix when she writes her movies: one outlandish wig, at least two wipeouts and as many vagina jokes as possible. "The Boss" is no exception, so if you like McCarthy's other movies, you'll like this one just as much.The movie opens with shot after shot of Michelle Darnell (McCarthy) being returned to an orphanage by her numerous adoptive families.
Movie review: 'The Boss' is classic Melissa
Melissa McCarthy must use some type of matrix when she writes her movies: one outlandish wig, at least two wipeouts and as many vagina jokes as possible. "The Boss" is no exception, so if you like McCarthy's other movies, you'll like this one just as much.The movie opens with shot after shot of Michelle Darnell (McCarthy) being returned to an orphanage by her numerous adoptive families.
Movie review: 'The Boss' is classic Melissa
Melissa McCarthy must use some type of matrix when she writes her movies: one outlandish wig, at least two wipeouts and as many vagina jokes as possible. "The Boss" is no exception, so if you like McCarthy's other movies, you'll like this one just as much.The movie opens with shot after shot of Michelle Darnell (McCarthy) being returned to an orphanage by her numerous adoptive families.
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