Every weekday morning, KFRU delivers a comprehensive look at the issues that are impacting Columbia.
Vera Elwood is one of the candidates vying for the open City Council seat for Ward 2 (CoMo.gov). Housing, Infrastructure, and Affordability in the Job Market are among the main issues she’s campaigning on. The #Ward2 special election is August 5th.
The 190th Boone County Fair is underway. Events take place at Northwest Regional Park through Saturday. Event Manager Jessica Kempf says bring the whole family out for a variety of events, including 4-H competitions, the demo derby, and games for the kiddos.
The rivalry between two long-standing neighbors comes to a head when both fall for the same woman. “Grumpy Old Men” is a hilarious and heartwarming take on the classic 90’s film. Lyceum’s Interim Artistic Director Alan Knoll says the musical’s humor, songs, and small Midwestern town setting will charm audiences. Tickets on sale!
Ken Rice is one of two candidates vying for the open City Council seat for Ward 2. His campaign is centered on taking action, being accessible to his ward and transparency. The Ward 2 special election is August 5th.
We’ve already seen several days in the 90’s this summer. How hot is it going to get in Mid Missouri? What is the Show Me State’s drought conditions? How much rain are we getting in the summer months? An informative visit with State Climatologist Dr. Zack Leasor
Maplewood Barn Theatre’s production of “The Shark Is Broken” starts this evening. A comedic take on the behind-the-scenes drama during the filming of “Jaws”. Director Jim Yelton says he’s proud to bring the universally praised show to Columbia. Enjoy a crowd pleasing tale under the stars. Tickets on sale!
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15th. Jessica McCowan with Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services discusses the purpose of the event, and the ways someone can observe it. She also covers the different types of elder abuse, and what actions we should take if we suspect its happening.
MOSY's Firefly Music Festival starts this weekend! Music Director Wilbur Lin says with selections spanning four centuries, the concerts feature both classical favorites and new works from pops to film. For tickets, go to themosy.org
The CPS Board met last night. Approval of the budget for the next school year, bids for new Security Cameras, and recognition of Interim Superintendent Chris Belcher. Details from Belcher and Board member Jeanne Snodgrass.
The 2025 season at Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre launches tonight with an audience fave... Disney's Frozen! The tale of two sisters fighting to save a kingdom, and finding the meaning of family along the way. Interim Artistic Director Alan Knoll says all ages will be enchanted by the production. Tickets on sale!
Tickets are available for Columbia Entertainment Company's production of Disney's "Freaky Friday". The beloved body swapping comedy, involving a single mom and teen daughter, begins a run of shows tonight. A fun visit with Co-Director Drew McCoy and actress Elizabeth Dorman.
Talking Horse Productions brings a unique theater experience to the stage with it's production of "White Rabbit Red Rabbit". No rehearsals. No set. No director. A different actor reads the script cold at each show. Randall Kenneth Jones and Jennifer Black Cone give us the details.
The community has voted to read “North Woods” by Daniel Mason for the 2025 One Read program. Lauren Williams says copies are available to check out at @dbrl. Plans are in the works for related book discussions, film screenings and other events.
A bittersweet day at KFRU. Listen to A Columbia Morning's David Gaines say goodbye to Luke Swezy, who announced today that he's leaving after 3 and a half years of fine work as the Station's Program Director and News Director. Simon Rose joined the talk to share his thoughts as well. We all wish Luke the best.
A bill to fund pensions for Missouri sheriffs is heading to the Governor's desk. Boone County Sheriff Dwayne Carey spent time in Jefferson City pushing for it during the recent session, and shares his feelings now that it's reached the finish line.
Legal protections for city employees involved in signing paperwork for federal grants could be addressed under a proposal the City Council will consider tonight. Mayor Barbara Buffaloe says the proposal to remove “DEI" language from the city’s strategic plan is tabled until June 16th. Tonight's meeting begins at 7 p.m. at City Hall.
A fired up David Tyson Smith talks about the actions of the State Senate as the legislative session comes to an end. The Democratic State Representative from Columbia says the will of Missouri voters is being overturned on abortion and paid sick leave. What's the potential political fallout moving forward?
After a six-year hiatus, the tradition of a Memorial Day parade in Columbia returns with a new name. Gold Star Mom Sherry Wyatt explains how she took action to see the event come back. Megan McConachie highlights the upcoming graduation events and impact to the city.
The 80th anniversary celebration of VE Day takes place Thursday on the Westminster College campus in Fulton. Including the peal of St. Mary's bells, music and games, and the museum's new mascot, Victor the Bulldog. Details from Tim Riley, Director of the National Churchill Museum.
The Columbia City Council could change DEI language in the strategic plan tonight. Mayor Barbara Buffaloe says the move is being considered in order to comply with the Trump administration’s effort to remove DEI programs.
We wrap up our spotlights on the 4 nominees for the Chamber's Small Business of the Year with a visit with Nick Allen, President with Manor Roofing & Restoration Services. Their experienced crew offers roofing, siding, windows, and decks on projects big and small. This year's winner is announced Thursday!
Our spotlight on the nominees for the Chamber's 2025 Small Business of the Year continues with a visit with Eclipse Catering and Events. Co-owner Leanne Geiss highlights what they offer for your special event, with an emphasis on presentation, service, and high quality food.
Get your tickets! Talking Horse Productions kicks off it's run of the musical "Working" this evening, with performances through the 4th, and from the 8th - 11th. A fun visit with Director Randy Jones and Actor Bob Bohon.
We continue our spotlight on the nominees for the Chamber's Small Business of the Year. Show-Me Bar-B-Q Sauce celebrates it's 50th anniversary in 2025. Co-owners Enrique and Blake Fuhlage highlight the local history of the business, which has expanded it's selection of tasty sauces and rubs.
The Columbia Chamber of Commerce will celebrate Small Business Week in May, and we begin spotlighting the four nominees up for Small Business of the Year. Taylor’s Commercial Grounds Maintenance offers grounds management services, and we get the story behind their growing business from co-owner David Geurts.
Tickets are now sold out for "MOSY in Bloom: An Afternoon Tea", which is coming up on Sunday. Ed Hanson dropped by the studio to highlight the details for what is hoped to become an annual Spring fundraiser for the Missouri Symphony.
The 3rd annual "That’s What She Said Columbia", showcasing personal stories from nine women shaping the community, is this Saturday at the Missouri Theatre. Part of the proceeds supporting Love Columbia. Producer Allie Teagarden and one of the speakers, Erica Pefferman, came by the studio to visit with David.
This Friday, Mizzou Law's Veterans Clinic is hosting a symposium on collaborative efforts to reduce veteran homelessness. Staff Attorney Carter Templeton joined Luke Swezy in-studio to talk about the clinic and what to expect at Friday's event.
Mayor Barbara Buffaloe won re-election to a second term on Tuesday with 55% of the vote. She joined us live on KFRU to talk about the campaign and how the city moves forward from here.
Finalist announcement day! Lauren Williams with @dbrl came by the studio to reveal the two books up the library's 24th annual One Read selection. Vote for either "The Measure" by Nikki Erlick or "North Woods" by Daniel Mason here: https://www.dbrl.org/one-read/vote. The winner will be announced May 22.
KFRU is a proud sponsor of the 16th annual Head for the Cure 5k, benefitting MU Health Care's Ellis Fischel Cancer Center. This Saturday at Stephens Lake Park. A preview of the event, and discussion on brain tumor research, with Dr. Michael Chicoine, chair of the MU School of Medicine’s Department of Neurosurgery.
Dr. Audrey Evans co-found the first Ronald McDonald House, and there's a special screening of a new film on her life coming to the RagTag. "Audrey’s Children" stars Natalie Dormer. RMHC Mid-Missouri's Terri Gray says seating is limited for the April 6th event.
State Representative David Tyson Smith dropped by the studios to preview the 2nd half of the legislative session in Jefferson City. He's introduced a bill that would exempt food sales from state sales tax, and addresses the issues he has with a certain congressman that's made recent headlines.
Tanya Heath is running for mayor in the April election, with a focus on crime reduction, economic development, and financial transparency. The Hickman and MU grad touts her 30 years of experience in advertising and marketing.
David Lile moderated the League of Women Voters Forum featuring the candidates for the Columbia School Board. Suzette Waters, Erica Dickson and Ken Rice shared their views on issues including DEI initiatives, community engagement, and vouchers.
David Lile moderated the League of Women Voters Forum featuring the candidates for the Columbia City Council's 4th Ward. Nick Foster and Ron Graves discussed their views on improving public safety, the Opportunity Campus, and zoning issues.
David Lile moderated the League of Women Voters Forum featuring the candidates for Mayor of Columbia: Barbara Buffaloe, Blair "Murph" Murphy, and Tanya Heath. The candidates shared their thoughts on many pressing issues including public safety, affordable housing, and public transportation.
Columbia’s incumbent mayor, Barbara Buffaloe, is running for reelection on the April 8th ballot. If she were to continue in the role, she plans to continue to invest in city staffing, focus on infrastructure, and continue projects like the Office of Violence Prevention.
Blair Murphy joins us in studio to discuss his bid to be the next Mayor of Columbia. This is his first time running for public office. In this conversation, Murph shares about his focus on including improving public safety. The municipal election is being held on April 8th.
Columbia's Convention and Visitors Bureau is mulling over the details of building a potential new Convention Center, following a feasibility study by CSI International. Megan McConachie says the study is just for informational purposes, but the need is there.
During tonight's pre-council meeting, members will review a feasibility study on a potential new Convention Center for Columbia. Mayor Barbara Buffaloe says it recommends different location options, including near the Mall or downtown.
Each year, the True Life Fund raises money for the subjects of a documentary playing at the True/False Film Fest. This year the film is "The Track". David Wilson says donations from fest goers make up the fund, and shares one of his favorite examples of it's impact.
CPS denying the sale of land for a proposed water tower in southwest Columbia. City Manager De'Carlon Seewood says passing an ordinance on irrigation for the Thornbrook Subdivision is a short term consideration until another site can be determined.
Congressman Bob Onder of Missouri discusses the details behind the Midnight Rule Act. We also cover his first official piece of legislation, the Timely Departure Act. Plus, Onder will be in our neck of the woods for a special event next week in Jefferson City.
The Missouri Restaurant Association is pushing for a partial repeal of Proposition A. CEO Buddy Lahl lays out the reasons why. He also talks about the potential impact of the President's Tariffs, and concerns among the industry when it comes to Ice Raids in Missouri.
Ramping up to the Super Bowl with a wide ranging conversation with Matt Lane of the KC Sports Network. Can the Chiefs make history with a three-peat? Is Saquon Barkley the Chief's biggest challenge? Is this a better Eagles team than the 2023 unit? Plus, Matt's score projection!
Nominated for Best Documentary at the 2025 Academy Awards, "No Other Land" comes to the Ragtag starting today. Produced by a collective of Palestinian-Israeli filmmakers, the film is a powerful experience that critics are calling "a jolt of moral clarity." Emily says it's one not to miss.
Strong reaction after President Trump suggested the US could take control of the Gaza Strip. Third District Missouri Congressman Bob Onder says while it's an interesting concept, and one he would need to take a closer look at it before forming an opinion, he believes in an America First Foreign Policy...
The Columbia City Council votes tonight on "Love Your Block" grants, aimed at revitalizing neighborhoods. If approved, residents could soon apply for them, as much as $2,500 per project in central and northeast Columbia. Applications would open in mid February.
A nationwide study of pregnant women with heart disease has been launched by MU Health Care. Dr. Karen Florio shares why the HOPE study is needed. Missouri ranks as one of the worst states in the country in maternal mortality.
