Mid-Missouri

ROBERT BERGLAND
For the Hub

The UNK volleyball team came into the MIAA championship game Saturday night 20-0 in games on their home and neutral courts. Central Missouri came in to the Civic Arena in St. Joseph, Missouri, winners of 11 straight, including a sweep of the Lopers in the last match of the season in Warrensburg.

ROBERT BERGLAND, FOR THE HUB

It was the Jennies who kept their streak alive, sweeping UNK to claim the tournament crown to go along with their regular season championship. The Lopers (28-5), who swept Central Missouri in October, are hoping to have the chance to even the score in the NCAA tournament.

The match hinged on the pivotal second set. After losing the first set 25-16, UNK battled in the second set, coming back from an early 7-4 deficit to take the lead at 10-9 and then extending the lead to 19-16. Central Missouri (24-7) then tied it up at 24. A kill by Asha Regier, who led the team with 13, had the Lopers poised to win the set. However, Central scored the last three points to take the set 27-25. The Jennies made short work of the Lopers in the final set, jumping out to a 12-5 lead and cruising to a 25-11 win to end the tournament.

ROBERT BERGLAND, FOR THE HUB

Coach Rick Squiers said that losing that second set was hard for the team to recover from.

“We had to have that one,” Squiers said. “We knew that. We couldn’t get a stop, and then they did championship things that we weren’t able to do. By that point, you’re not in a good spot, and you’ve expended all of your psychological and most of your physical energy. We would have needed to them to help us out in that third set, which they apparently were in no mood to do.”

Asha Regier (17) goes up for a spike against Central Missouri in the MIAA Tournament Championship match. UCM defeated UNK in three sets.

ROBERT BERGLAND, FOR THE HUB

Jaden Ferguson, who had eight kills and 12 digs, was also disappointed to let the second set slip away.

“You’re close, and you can feel it,” said Ferguson, who joined Regier and setter Peyton Neff on the all-tournament team. “That’s definitely the tide change, them taking that set. We played hard, but we didn’t just didn’t play hard enough times to beat them. They’re a solid team.”

For Squiers, a key part of UCM being a solid team is the strength of their middle to complement their strong outside hitting. Middle blocker Rachel Ziesman had 15 kills and her blocking helped hold a UNK squad that was seventh in the nation in hitting percentage to only .164. Meanwhile, Central hit .351, well above their season average.

“They can come at you from anywhere,” Squiers said. “They are physically good enough to take away some of the things that we like to run, and we were not able to take away some of the things they like to run, and that’s a recipe for disaster.”

Next up for the Lopers will likely be the NCAA tournament. Ferguson, who played in her last MIAA tournament, is hoping to extend her career at least a few more games. The brackets will be announced Monday at 6:30 p.m.

“We’re hopefully going to end up in regionals and have another chance to be better,” Ferguson said.

The Central Region is the toughest region in the country, with eight teams ranked in the top 18 in Monday’s AVCA national poll. That poll is topped by Wayne State (27-1), a likely host for the regional tournament. Three other teams are also ranked in the top 10: St. Cloud State (8th), Southwest Minnesota State (5th) and the 2022 national runner-up, Concordia-St. Paul, the team that knocked UNK out of the NCAA tournament last year. Other teams in the region include MIAA foes Central Missouri (18th) and Central Oklahoma (15th), along with Minnesota Duluth (16th).

Squiers and his team will try to make a few minor adjustments heading into the tournament, in addition to trying not to dwell on what went wrong in this match.

“I think you try to pull a few positives from the match. Had you won the second, we’d still be out there battling and feeling better about things,” Squiers said. “It’s not some sort of drastic overhaul at this point in the season. It will force us as coaches to look at whatever we can do line-up wise or with our offense.”

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COLUMBIA — Columbia recently discovered PFAS or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in its water systems.

They are also known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down naturally in the environment.

This marks the first time the substances have been found in Columbia’s water supply.

Eric Medlock, environmental program manager of the public drinking water branch, said PFAS have been used in many products, most notably for making Teflon and nonstick coating cookware, for water repellent stain resistant fabrics, like upholstery or clothing. 

According to the Columbia Missourian, chemical analysis of water samples was taken in early December from the city’s wellfield.

The city gets its water supply from these wells before transferring it to McBaine Water Treatment Plant for processing and distribution to residents.

No chemicals were found in drinking water samples.

Matt Nestor, spokesperson for Columbia Utilities, said the tests occurred in light of a recent rule from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agenciy (EPA). 

It states that utilities would need to conduct tests for PFAS and initiate water treatment if the chemicals are detected at a level of 4 parts per trillion (ppt).

In a health advisory, the EPA said communities might face potential health risks if exposed to 0.004 ppt levels of certain types of PFAS.

Robert Bowcock, a water engineer who has studied Columbia’s water for around a decade said forever chemicals are exactly what they’re called, forever.

“They bioaccumulate in the body. So very, very low doses are important to be recognized because they will accumulate in your tissue for over 10 years before they start being released by the body.”

Nestor said the tests help give the city a baseline of information.

“If regulations come down the line, we have a good starting point in knowing what we need to do,” Nestor said.

He said the city has been monitoring this since 2018.

“We have a close eye on what EPA is suggesting,” Nestor said. “That’ll just give us some information on different things we need to do at the water treatment plant down the line, where we can combat this if it comes to that.”

Despite an upcoming $25 million dollar investment in upgrading Columbia’s water treatment plant, there are no plans to add filters to remove PFAS from the water.

“We’ve done a cost analysis,” Nestor said. “We have an idea of what it would take to include the carbon filters in the water treatment plant. But there’s a lot of things between then and now that will dictate how we move forward.”

He said the city will continue to monitor this issue.

“We’re staying on top of everything as best we can,” Nestor said. 

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PFAS have been on EPA’s radar since 2009.

Medlock said the EPA initially set the safety levels at 204 ppt in 2013, but due to more research and concerns, they lowered it to 70 parts per trillion in 2016.

Then, in June 2022, they lowered it even further, below detectable levels.

There are currently no federal requirements for PFAS testing or treatment.

Bowcock said there are many reasons the EPA is advancing the maximum contaminant level issue so rapidly.

“The big fear factor is this issue associated with immune response,” Bowcock said, “immune response, endocrine disruption and cancer.”

Medlock said they are in the process of getting Missouri’s data. 

“We started that sampling last year. So all that analysis that we’re getting is going into our database. It’s going into a map viewer that is available to the public,” Medlock said. “To show where some of these concentrations are being found in Missouri.”

Julie Ryan, co-founder of the COMO Safe Water Coalition, said she’s unsure she believes this is really the first time the city has found the chemicals in the water supply.

“It’s the first time that we’re detecting them at levels that are so tiny, that it is part of why we’re saying now we found them,” Ryan said. ” The thing that has bothered me the most, is that we have been talking about this chemical and others since 2016. Trying to explain this to the city that what they’re pursuing to repair the water treatment plant is not going to take care of this.”

She said the best way to stay healthy is to make sure that the primary source of drinking water is safe.

“The city unfortunately focuses on doing just enough, instead of doing what’s best for the community,” Ryan said. “I think people really need to look at that. They need to understand what is in their water, they need to if they can filter it, that’s great.”

She said the city used to have a source water protection task force, but it was disbanded.

“For the city to eliminate something like a Source Water Protection Task Force, which is inherently there, to protect the interests of our citizens, I think speaks to the lack of knowledge and the lack of leadership they have when it comes to something that is such an important part of our public infrastructure,” Ryan said.

Originally Appeared Here

Larry Rhea’s car is old as him. His 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air, painted a bright turquoise with white accents, holds more character than something more recent, he said.

“I like the history of it, you can see the body-style change throughout the years with these cars,” Rhea said.

Inside of Rhea’s Bel Air is the original leather, bench seats and Nomad steering wheel. Rhea also added a pair of black and white fuzzy dice from the rearview mirror.

Rhea was at Leonard Rutledge’s house for the Mid-Mo Old Car Club’s New Year’s Day garage tour. Rhea is also treasurer of the MMOCC.

The group traveled to view Steve Meyer’s collection on Missouri Boulevard, Donnie Weber’s collection on State Route D in Lohman and, after viewing Rutledge’s collection, stopped by the Rusty Baldwin Shop on Highway E.

Rutledge had a classic Volkswagen car in his main garage as well as several vintage pieces of tractor equipment in his second garage and his father’s John Deere antique tractor.

Rutledge said he has an affinity for Volkswagen vehicles. His pale-yellow 1970 Volkswagen Deluxe Bus sits outside his front door and is the 14th VW bus he and his wife have owned.

“I’m a Volkswagen guy,” he said.

Tim Petty, president of MMOCC, said the club has been hosting New Years Day garage tours for longer than he’s been a member. Petty joined the club in 1995; he owns several cars, all older than at least 1980.

Petty said he likes being involved with the MMOCC because it’s a way to make friends with similar interests to him.

“I’ve loved cars since I was a little kid. I liked playing with (toy) cars, then driving them, now I can find people who like them, be friends with them. Sometimes you can trade stuff, too and it’s easier than trying to buy everything,” he said.

Petty still owns his first ever car, a 1953 Chevrolet pickup truck he bought back from a junkyard several years ago.

Mick Rhyme also stopped by Rutledge’s home with his 1985 Chevrolet pickup truck he’s owned since only seven years after the truck came out.

“I’m the fourth owner, I think. (The original owner) bought it with 34,000 miles on it and it’s got under 150,000 on it now. Unbelievable,” he said.

Rhyne is using spare parts from a 1937 Chevrolet truck as decor for the front of his house. The frame to the front-end of the truck hangs above Rhyne’s driveway, in the spot a basketball hoop might be.

“When I get done, I’m going to back the truck in there,” Rhyne said, pointing to a printed photo of his garage.

Rhyne’s friend in Independence that owns the shop Rhyne purchases most of his parts from, Jim Carter Truck Parts, is going to make a calendar for 2024 and one month will display a photo of Rhyne’s decoration.

“I’ll hope for either January or October. The reason I say that is so it’s either the first or because October is my birthday,” he said.

Rhyne said he’s rebuilding this vehicle “from the ground up.” He bought the vehicle from a friend, who had taken the vehicle apart and left it that way for more than 40 years.

His favorite part has been the parts.

“I’ve had so much fun gathering up all the parts for it,”

Rhyne has fixed and sold other classic cars as well, including ones from 1948 and 1950. He said his current truck, from 1937, will be his last project.

“It’s just so time demanding. The money is the easy part. It’s just the time,” Rhyne said.

    Mick Rhyne shows a picture of his an outdoor decoration he’s working on that incorporates a spare frame for his 1937 Chevrolet truck. (Stephi Smith/News Tribune photo)
      Stephi Smith/News Tribune photo: Mick Rhyne smiles while talking about his new outdoor house decoration: the frame for a 1937 Chevrolet truck hanging above his garage door.
      Mick Rhyne shows another printed photo, this one depicting him, Uncle Sam and his grandsons driving a
      Larry Rhea
      Larry Rhea
  

Originally Appeared Here

The North Central Missouri College Board of Trustees approved purchasing property/casualty/liability insurance November 28th.

The insurance through the Missouri United School Insurance Council for the 2024 calendar year will cost $246,369. Vice President of Business and Finance Tyson Otto reported that was an increase from $177,181 on last year’s premium.

He said the increase was due to multiple factors that the college was expecting. One factor was the addition of the Savannah Campus. MUSIC increased its insurance line rates for the first time in 20 years because of a nationwide trend in an increase in claims and increasing costs to replace and repair. NCMC also added some positions, gave higher salary increases, and added facilities and contents.

Otto noted that, in the time he has been at NCMC, property/casualty/liability insurance was bid out twice, and MUSIC was the best option.

The board approved two resignations. They were for Talent Search Advisor Zachary Dudley and Academic Affairs Assistant Dana Lockwood. Dudley and Lockwood’s last day was November 3rd.

Employments were approved. They included Belinda Egbuta of Savannah as Savannah Campus Assistant with a start date of December 1st. Abigail Bilby of Saint Joseph was hired as nursing faculty at the Savannah Campus with a start date of January 3rd. Adjunct instructors hired to start in the spring were Tabatha Hatfield of Litchfield Park, Arizona and Devon Matthias of Eielson Air Force Base of Alaska for sonography courses and Bridgett Hubbartt-Bass of Leonard for chemistry/science courses.

The board approved emeritus status for Beth Crawford. She has served NCMC since 1999. She has taught nursing classes and coordinated the Bethany evening/weekend program. She has also been active in committee work. The board previously approved Crawford’s retirement, effective December 29th.

Approval was given to an update to the Non-discrimination Policy to comply with efforts from the Biden administration and the U. S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. The policy now says “Discrimination Based on Actual or Perceived Religion, Shared Ancestry, or Ethnic Characteristics are Prohibited Forms of Discrimination in the Workforce Development System.”

Approval was also given to filing dates for the April election for two members of the NCMC Board of Trustees. Positions held by Don Dalrymple and Rob Maloney will expire.

The candidate filing period set by the state is December 5th through 25th. Candidates can file during regular business hours, except for December 22nd and 26th.

The board approved a date change for its December meeting due to the college being closed on the next regular meeting date. Next month’s meeting will be in the Frey Administrative Center Board of Trustees Meeting Room December 19th at 5:30.

An in-kind hourly rate increase was approved for Green Hills Head Start, retroactive to September. The in-kind volunteer hourly rate was increased to $13.80 an hour in conjunction with the new cost-of-living minimum wage. The amount was figured by using the $12 an hour minimum wage and adding 15% fringe cost.

North Central Missouri College had three Missouri Community College Award winners. Chris Hoffman received the Trustee Leadership Award, Sophia Swink received the Excellence in Teaching Award, and John and Delores Kuttler received the Award of Distinction.

NCMC President Doctor Lenny Klaver reported at the November 28 NCMC Board of Trustees meeting that the awards were presented at a dinner at the MCCA Annual Convention.

Hoffman has been a trustee since 1992. NCMC Klaver congratulated Hoffman in person on November 28. Klaver said Hoffman was a good advocate for NCMC.

Sophia Swink is the Practical Nursing to Associate Degree in Nursing director. The Kuttlers have supported NCMC and the Barton Farm Campus.

NCMC had other finalists for MCCA awards. Vice President of Business and Finance Tyson Otto was a finalist for the Administrative Professional Leadership Award. Resource Center Coordinator Shellee Castanada was a finalist for the Classified Staff Achievement Award.

Klaver reported NCMC has submitted the first part of the 2025 Aspen Prize application, which included a National Student Clearinghouse authorization form and student progress data. The college will submit the application narrative by December 12 to be considered for the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence.

Klaver commented that it was an honor to be nominated.

Chief of Staff Kristi Harris said the board might be asked to help with the nomination process.

Klaver reported that, from August 1 through November 10, Student Support Services had 1,311 individual appointments for advising and 162 advising hours. There were 94.3 formal tutoring hours and 103 formal tutoring contacts. There were 1,075 student hours in the lab. Klaver noted the lab is always busy, and it is an asset for students.

He reported 21% more students enrolled on the first day of registration for the spring than the previous year.

Later in the meeting, Vice President of Student Affairs Doctor Kristen Alley reported 836 students had registered for 10,000 hours for the spring, as of Monday morning, November 27 at 10 a.m.

Klaver reported that, in the last month, NCMC’s email protection services processed more than 486,000 inbound messages. Identified email threats included 57.1% phishing, 19.2% telephone-oriented attack delivery, 18.6% malware, and 5.1% business email compromise.

For the 2022-2023 year, NCMC retained 87% of its full-time workforce. Of the 18 employees who left, two retired, and 16 were non-retained.

Klaver noted 79% of the college’s full-time employees are women.

Vice President of Academic Affairs Doctor Tristan Londre reported more than 120 students, advisors, and guests attended the State Professional Agriculture Student Organization contest on the NCMC Main and Barton Farm campuses from November 7 through 9.

The college hosted 90 students from 13 high schools for Nursing and Health Science Day at the Savannah Campus the morning of November 3. In the afternoon, there was an employer panel and a career fair for NCMC’s current nursing and health science students.

Political Science Instructor Doctor Sterling Recker recently received the Mid-American Alliance for African Studies Servant Leadership Award for his work with the organization.

Londre reported Industrial Technology Instructor Rick Sharp attended a seminar on Drone Applications in Public Safety and Agriculture at Kansas State University on November 2 and 3.

Childhood Development Instructor Noel Staddie attended the National Association for the Education of Young Children Conference in Nashville, Tennessee, from November 15 through 18. Londre said the conference focused on two-year colleges, and Staddie learned about what programs are doing throughout the country.

Dean of Instruction Doctor Mitch Holder reported on his participation with the American Association of Community Colleges Commission on Student Success in Washington, D.C. He said it was a good opportunity to participate.

Holder shared that a Senate committee asked the commission questions because a bill is being considered that deals with mental health at colleges. He believes there should be legislation to provide funding for mental health at rural institutions that have budgetary restraints.

Holder said the AACC Commission on Student Success also helped reinforce legislative priorities and discussed Pell Grant funding.

Alley reported NCMC’s Registrar’s Office had 58 December graduation applications for 56 students.

She gave a report on Residence Life. She said resident assistants are important, and they are student leaders. They manage their time and help other students. She commented they also work well together as a team.

Alley noted that Residence Life Director Donnie Hillerman has said Residence Life Coordinators Kenlee Frank and Demetrius Houston are two of the best residence life coordinators NCMC has had.

Alley reported the Anchor buildings are the most popular for students residing on campus.

She mentioned that Great Western Dining accommodates students who have allergies.

She said living on campus creates a collegiate environment. Student involvement is popular with college freshmen. Students learn about different cultures and life skills.

Alley added that she is looking forward to the new student center.

Chief Information Officer Jennifer Triplett reported most students had completed monitoring security cyber training. Students are not required to do the training.

She said the Power Campus upgrade was successfully completed. NCMC created new servers to host.

Green Hills Head Start Director Janet Gott reported she participated in the recent Grundy County emergency tabletop exercise, and it was good. The Head Start centers are now talking about evacuation locations.

Gott said the Second Harvest Community Food Bank delivered 160 bags of food, and more bags are to be delivered in December. Homework bags were also distributed.

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Originally Appeared Here

JEFFERSON CITY − The following is a list of general highway maintenance and construction work planned by the Missouri Department of Transportation in the mid-Missouri area Jan. 1–7. Weather conditions may postpone the scheduled work. Many projects will include lane closures that could cause delays.    

MoDOT reminds drivers to buckle up, slow down, follow posted signs, and drive safely through work areas. 

All counties      

Moving operations such as mowing, brush cutting, and pavement repair continue in various locations. Motorists should travel with care and be alert for slow-moving equipment.     

Boone County     

Route K – Roadside work planned Jan. 2-5 from Route KK to where state maintenance ends. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.   

Route N – Roadside work planned Jan. 2-5. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.   

Interstate 70 – Bridge construction continues for the new Rocheport Bridge near mile marker 115. The project is scheduled for completion in December 2024.     

Callaway County     

Route EE – Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 3. All lanes will be closed between County Roads 1024 and 1006, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Route B – Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 4. All lanes will be closed between Route N and Kelsch Lane, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Camden County   

U.S. Route 54 – Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 3 at Bumper Hill Road. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zones. 

Route N – Roadside work planned Jan. 2-5. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.  

Cole County

Route B – Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 2-4 from Osage Riverview Drive to Upper Bottom Road. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zones.    

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Cooper County

I-70 – Bridge construction continues for the new Rocheport Bridge near mile marker 115. The project is scheduled for completion in December 2024.   main open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zones.   

Maries County

Route 133 – Culvert pipe replacement planned Jan. 2-5 in the city limits of Belle. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.   

Route P – Culvert pipe replacement planned Jan. 2-5 at County Road 440. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.  

Route 28 – Bridge replacement continues at the Dry Fork Creek Bridge. The road is closed to all traffic and a signed detour is in place. The project is scheduled for completion in April 2024.        

Phelps County

Route 63 – Culvert pipe replacement planned Jan. 2 – 4, 1.5 miles north of Yancy Mills. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.     

I-44 – Road resurfacing and reconstruction continues from Exit 186 in Rolla to Exit 195 in St. James. Expect around-the-clock lane closures from U.S. Route 63 to Missouri Route 68. An 11-foot width restriction is in place. The project is scheduled for completion in late September 2024.        

Pulaski County

Missouri Route 133 – Culvert pipe replacement planned Jan. 2-5 south of Route C. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.     

Route 17 – Roadside work replacement planned Jan. 2-5, from Route K to the city of Crocker. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone. 

Route DD – Roadside planned Jan. 2-5, 1 mile east of Bagnor Road. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone. 

Route DD – Culvert pipe replacement planned Jan. 3, 1 mile east of Buttercup Road. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone. 

I-44 – Bridge rehabilitation continues at the Roubidoux River Bridge. The project is scheduled for completion in April 2024.   

I-44 – Bridge rehabilitation continues at the Big Piney River Bridge. One lane will remain closed for the duration of the project between Exits 163 and 169. The project is scheduled for completion in April 2024.  

Originally Appeared Here

The following is a list of general highway maintenance and construction work planned in the mid-Missouri area Jan. 1 – 7. Weather conditions may postpone the scheduled work. Many projects will include lane closures that could cause delays.    

All Counties      

• · Moving operations such as mowing, brush cutting, and pavement repair continue in various locations. Motorists should travel with care and be alert for slow-moving equipment.   

Phelps County       

• · Route 63 – Culvert pipe replacement planned Jan. 2 – 4, 1.5 miles north of Yancy Mills. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.     
• · I-44 – Road resurfacing and reconstruction continues from Exit 186 in Rolla to Exit 195 in St. James. Expect around-the-clock lane closures from U.S. Route 63 to Missouri Route 68. An 11-foot width restriction is in place. The project is scheduled for completion in late September 2024.        

Pulaski County 

• · Missouri Route 133 – Culvert pipe replacement planned Jan. 2 – 5 south of Route C. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.     
• · Route 17 – Roadside work replacement planned Jan. 2 – 5, from Route K to the city of Crocker. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone. 
• · Route DD – Roadside planned Jan. 2 – 5, 1 mile east of Bagnor Road. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone. 
• · Route DD – Culvert pipe replacement planned Jan. 3, 1 mile east of Buttercup Road. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone. 
• · I-44 – Bridge rehabilitation continues at the Roubidoux River Bridge. The project is scheduled for completion in April 2024.   
• · I-44 – Bridge rehabilitation continues at the Big Piney River Bridge. One lane will remain closed for the duration of the project between Exits 163 and 169. The project is scheduled for completion in April 2024.  

Boone County     

• · Route K – Roadside work planned Jan. 2 – 5 from Route KK to where state maintenance ends.  One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.   
• · Route N – Roadside work planned Jan. 2 – 5. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.   
• · I-70 – Bridge construction continues for the new Rocheport Bridge near mile marker 115. The project is scheduled for completion in December 2024.     

Callaway County     

• · Route EE – Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 3. All lanes will be closed between County Roads 1024 and 1006, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. 
• · Route B – Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 4. All lanes will be closed between Route N and Kelsch Lane, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Camden County   

• · U.S. Route 54 – Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 3 at Bumper Hill Road. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zones.    
• · Route N – Roadside work planned Jan. 2 – 5. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.  

Cole County      

• · Route B – Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 2 – 4 from Osage Riverview Drive to Upper Bottom Road. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zones.    

Cooper County       

• · I-70 – Bridge construction continues for the new Rocheport Bridge near mile marker 115. The project is scheduled for completion in December 2024.   

Crawford County      

• · Missouri Route 19 – Pavement marking planned Jan. 2 – 5 from Route DD to Eldon Ave. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zones.    
• · Routes E and T– Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 2 – 5. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zones.      
• · Missouri Route 8 – Roadside work planned Jan. 2 – 5 from the city of Steelville to the city of Berryman. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zones.   
• · Missouri Route 49 – Roadside work planned Jan. 2 – 5 from Route 19 to the city of Viburnum. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zones.  
• · Route VV – Roadside work planned Jan. 2 – 5 from Route M to Beers Road. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zones.    

Laclede County   

• · Route J – Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 2. All lanes will be closed between Palm Drive and Plum Drive, 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. 
• · Route J – Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 3. All lanes will be closed between Navaho Drive and Mercury Drive, 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. 
• · Route BB – Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 4. All lanes will be closed between Route 5 and Peach Blossom Lane, 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. 
• · Route BB – Culvert pipe replacements planned Jan. 5. All lanes will be closed between Peach Blossom Lane and Route F, 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. 

Maries County  

• · Route 133 – Culvert pipe replacement planned Jan. 2 – 5 in the city limits of Belle. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.   
• · Route P – Culvert pipe replacement planned Jan. 2 – 5 at County Road 440. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.  
• · Route 28 – Bridge replacement continues at the Dry Fork Creek Bridge. The road is closed to all traffic and a signed detour is in place. The project is scheduled for completion in April 2024.        

Washington County 

• · Routes BB and JJ – Roadside planned Jan. 2 – 5. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.     
• · Route C – Culvert pipe replacement planned Jan. 3 – 4 between Route JJ and Route P. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone.   

MoDOT reminds motorists to buckle up, slow down, follow posted signs and drive safely through work areas. For more information about a project, please contact MoDOT at 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map. You can also follow MoDOT’s Central Missouri District on Twitter and Facebook at https://twitter.com/MoDOT_Central and MoDOT Central Missouri District.   

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Are you or your family looking for a new tradition and a way to be more active in the new year? Well, Central Missouri State Park staff and volunteers will host First Day Hikes on Jan. 1 in the region, with many happening at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park.

First Day Hikes provide a means for individuals and family to welcome the new year in the outdoors, exercise and connect with nature, the National Association of State Park Directors said. If hiking is not your forte, the association also recommends boating, fishing, horseback riding or any other number of outdoor activities to celebrate a First Day Hike.

“America’s State Park programs are committed to promoting outdoor recreation for everyone to help address obesity and nature deficit disorder, especially in children,” the association said on its website. “Furthermore, outdoor activities rejuvenate the mind and body, promoting overall mental and physical health and wellness.”

While all guided hikes are taking place Jan. 1, they start at different times. Registration is required in most cases through icampmo.com, using the “Choose Date” option on the “Activities” page to find the specific First Day Hikes. If visiting elsewhere in Missouri over the holiday season, The Missouri State Parks website has a full list of upcoming events, including First Day Hikes. Event listings also have information on event registration.

Here’s when and where First Day Hikes will take place in Central Missouri:

Jefferson Landing State Historic Site

This 1 1/2-mile hike starts 1 p.m. from the Lohman Building at 100 Jefferson St. in Jefferson City. This hike includes urban exploration around the historic site, the Capitol Complex and Jefferson City’s Deborah Cooper Park on Adrian Island.

The tour which will include views of the Missouri River and historic buildings. The hike is on sidewalks with slight to moderate inclines, including the Bicentennial Bridge. Guides will use a bluetooth-enabled microphone, so it is recommended to bring headphones to hear all the information.

More information is available by calling 573-751-2584.

Katy Trail State Park

The 2-mile hike starting 1 p.m. from the Katy Trail trailhead in Windsor will be in the section of the Katy Trail that connects with the Rock Island Trail. Hikers will learn about Rock Island Trail creation and operation. Some wildlife could be seen.

This is considered an easy hike on a packed gravel surface. This hike requires registration. Use the “Choose Date” option to find the “First Day Hike on the Rock” listing through icampmo.com. More information is available by calling 660-563-2463.

Rock Bridge Memorial State Park

Multiple hikes are planned throughout the day from three separate locations in Rock Bridge Memorial State Park at 5901 S. Highway 163.

There is a morning and afternoon 1 3/4-mile hike starting from the Devil’s Icebox parking lot. The morning hike starts 9:30 a.m., while the afternoon hike starts 12:30 p.m. The hike will include a number of stops to learn about the history and geology of the area. Hike difficulty is moderate due to the long, gradual hill on a dirt-and-gravel terrain of the Sinkhole Trail and pathways through the woods, along a boardwalk for the last 1/4-mile. The route includes stairs, is not stroller accessible and not recommended for children under four unless they are carried by a parent or guardian. Features of the hike include the 19th century town of Rockbridge Mills and its whiskey distillery and former homes, Ingrum Springs, entrances to two sinkhole pit caves, the opening of Devil’s Icebox Cave and the Rock Bridge. Space is limited, so registration is required.

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For those up for a longer challenge a 3 3/4-mile hike starts noon from the park’s playground. It passes through an oak-hickory woodland and along Little Bonne Femme Creek for about 1/2-mile. It will take a vigorous pace, traversing several hills. The guide will share information on streams and wildlife. This Deer Run Trail is not stroller friendly and again is not recommended for those under four years old unless carried. Registration is required.

The 2-mile hike starting 2:30 p.m. from the Grassland Trail trailhead is more youth friendly. This hike is intended to focus on flying wildlife like sparrows, hawks, along with other flora and fauna. Guests can stick around for an extra 30 minutes at dusk after the hike’s conclusion to listen to the remaining daytime activity, watch the sunset and listen to the start of the nighttime activity. This hike is intended for those ages eight and up and space is limited, so registration is required.

More information on all the Rock Bridge hikes is available by calling 573-449-7402.

Charles Dunlap covers local government, community stories and other general subjects for the Tribune. You can reach him at cdunlap@columbiatribune.com or @CD_CDT on Twitter. Subscribe to support vital local journalism.

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Missouri, also known as the Show-Me State, is a great travel destination when it comes to small-town vibrant culture and welcoming vibes. Travelers looking for a new reason to step outside their comfort zone may find the state a viable option for exploration and fun. With many wondrous locales to learn about, the ones found in the midwestern US are no exception. Here are ten of the coziest small towns in Missouri worth touring or settling down in.

Boonville

Main Street in Boonville, Missouri. Image credit: Paul Sableman via Wikimedia Commons.

A small town with 7,894 residents, Boonville is full of genial charm and unexpected cultural thrills. A testament to welcoming ecosystems, the Rivers, Rails & Trails Museum hosts many historical exhibits and train memorabilia, ideal for family-friendly and cozy travelers seeking solace among souvenir shops and Katy Trail walkways. Tourists can expect friendly neighborhood observers greeting newcomers into town at the Friends of Historic Boonville, which caters to cultural activities and encourages everyone to play mini-games and feel festive during seasonal holidays. For outdoor locales, one may want to consider Warm Springs Ranch for animal pastures and stallion riding, as well as Harley Park Overlook for natural panoramic beauty on the Santa Fe Trail. With various ways to feel included, tourists should not miss out on this town.

Fulton

Bronze statue by Don Weigand stands in front of church at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri. Editorial credit: RozenskiP / Shutterstock.com

With 12,864 inhabitants, Fulton is a definitive cozy destination for history and museum lovers. At America’s National Churchill Museum, for instance, tourists may discover the illustrious timeline of Winston Churchill and associated antiques related to the older days, all provided as a guided tour by friendly staff members. Auto World Museum also delivers on its promise of historical vibrance by alluding to vintage automobiles and mid-1990s transportation phenomena. Travelers who want to feel right at home may prefer Killabrews Pub, where courteous workers support newcomers with a relaxing time full of collegiate fun and in-house pool table events. For a historical place to shop away from crowds, Rock Garden Antique Barn is a comfortable locale offering interesting merchandise that attracts visitors from all wakes of life. Cozy experiences are equally enticing over at Smockingbird’s Unique Gifts, a mainstay for gift-giving and underrated kitchenware. While out in the town, travelers can even visit Serenity Valley Winery, a mid-Missouri landscape with pristine wine-tasting events and wonderful communities that make for the perfect evening.

Parkville

Mackay Hall of Park University, Parkville, Missouri. 

The 9,061 inhabitants in Parkville know too well that this small town is quiet and cozy, yet it remains quite lively for tourism. Natural landmarks like English Landing Park and Sullivan Nature Sanctuary are home to some of the cutest animals travelers may want to see alongside the winding Missouri River trail. For commercial venues, those visiting may want to pay a visit to Parkville Mini Golf, a locale hosting friendly staff and old-fashioned golfing fun for guests of all ages. Anyone with a hungry appetite may also be in the mood for hot Philly cheesesteaks or delightful whiskey creations at My Brother’s Place or Whiskey River Pizza & Pub, both of which feature amazing hospitality for newcomers. If tourists are still feeling the itch for exploration, the Farm House Collection is right around the corner of town with its welcoming atmosphere and hand-poured candle merchandise. This town is great for anyone wanting to feel more active and involved in a peaceful setting.

Kimmswick

Kimmswick, Missouri. Image credit: Paul Sableman via Wikimedia Commons.

Kimmswick is a very small town of 129 residents but still maintains its presence as a hotbed for tourism because of its vast history and fascinating museum art. Travelers in town may enjoy Anheuser Estate for its wholesome group tours, beautiful gazebo rides, and observation decks that overlook the Mississippi River. Visitors will often be stopped by kind locals to test their fresh spices over at The Spicery, a laidback and historic storefront that is always stocked with the finest gourmet recipes and tea varieties. The Port of Kimmswick is also an option for tourists wanting to absorb riverfront serenity while learning about the maritime legacy of the town. An 1840s loghouse landmark, the Historical Society Museum is home to multiple restorative monuments and artifacts that are reminiscent of Missouri’s past. Another museum worth checking out is the Mastodon State Historic Site, which captivates guests with its prehistoric findings and skeleton replicas. Artistic talent can be eyed at the Elm Street Art Gallery, where travelers can indulge in local beer while conversing and networking with compassionate painters and other professionals.

Hannibal

Downtown Hannibal, Missouri. Editorial credit: Sabrina Janelle Gordon / Shutterstock.com

A noteworthy cozy destination that is often distinguished as the boyhood home of Mark Twain, Hannibal is a spectacular place to visit or stay in. With 16,989 residents, this town is famous for locales like the Molly Brown Birthplace & Museum, where demonstrations and exhibits about Titanic survivors are always displayed for recognition. A truly welcoming experience is findable at Hickory Stick Quilt Shop, a downtown staple where shoppers are likely to see smooth fabrics, hand-dyed wool, and impressive stitcheries up for sale. For anyone seeking natural splendor, Lover’s Leap is bound to bring memories with its gorgeous flagpost views and scenic high-rise cliffs. At Julian Steyermark Woods Conservation Area, visitors can have up-close interactions with greenery while taking in city-limit sights. For animal history, Sodalis Nature Preserve provides an extensive look at endangered bats while also being the town’s second-largest park. For a superior, cozy excursion, tourists will have a warm welcome at Rockcliffe Mansion, where Georgian Revivalism and Gilded Age architecture are commonplace as the backdrop for a boutique bed and breakfast.

Cuba

Bob’s Gasoline Alley on historic Route 66 in Cuba, Missouri.

A small town with 3,143 residents, Cuba prides itself on friendly locals and mural creations. Osage Trail Legacy is a museum locale that establishes itself as the only monument in the entire state that emphasizes the importance of the Osage Nation, while further exploration can be taken nearby at Murals of Cuba, denoting an artistic rendition of the 1850s history of Route 66 canvassed across its walls. For more travel importance, Fanning 66 Outpost is a cozy hotspot for tourists thanks to its pioneering spirit and rich automobile history. The Crawford County Historical Society is yet another comfortable locale that will appeal to outsiders with its monthly rotating exhibits and handmade vintage apparel. Family-friendly fun can be had at the Crawford County Fair, a favorable locale that creates lively environments with its agricultural events and unforgettable carnival rides. Anyone hungry for an award-winning barbecue can take a detour to Missouri Hick or Audrey’s Eatery, surrounded by cordial waiters and local town flavor.

Reeds Spring

Waterfalls at Reeds Spring, Missouri.

A small town home to 1,145 residents, Reeds Spring, is a historic town with mesmerizing countryside attractions. The popular Silver Dollar City amusement park is a pivotal stop for tourists in this town because of its 1880s cultural ties and bluegrass concerts. Adrenaline junkies may choose to zipline across the highest and longest elevations in the Midwest while touring Zip Line USA, while elegant golfing is noticeable at Ledgestone Country Club. Those who like casual shopping exposure and wholesome pleasures may enjoy AJ’s Wood Door Flea Market. In this comfortable locale, shoppers and visitors participate in yard sales and quality furniture auctions. If anyone desires something out of the ordinary, Hess Pottery is a modern locale with friendly faces that hosts workshops on red clay pottery and pine needle basket creations.

Kirksville

Adair County Courthouse in Kirksville, Missouri. Image credit: Kbh3rd via Wikimedia Commons.

An excellent historic town with relaxing ecosystems and adorable locales, Kirksville is home to 17,488 residents. It is frequented for its famous DuKum Inn, a 1930s-styled tavern that hones in on its scrumptious burger meals and tacos with a welcoming microbrew section. Nearby, the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine at AT Still University is a major tourist attraction that traces the history of osteopathic work through various artifacts, photographs, documents, and literature, resulting in a cozy knowledge base for visitors new to town. Entertainment lovers may revel at the Curtain Call Theatre, which is known for its troupe of local actors and theatricality that spans years of history. For a crowded and lively adventure, the Red Barn Arts & Crafts Festival appeals to just about anyone with a penchant for downtown amusement. Nature enthusiasts may be better accustomed to Thousand Hills State Park, a 3,215-acre landmark with a splendid marina, beach resort, and Native American petroglyphs.

Arrow Rock

Main Street in Arrow Rock, Missouri. Image credit: Frank Thompson via Flickr.com

A distinctively small town of only 62 residents, Arrow Rock, is an easygoing destination because of its roots in historic legacy and antiquated design. The Lyceum Theatre is a prominent tourist locale that brings to life the importance of musicals, dramas, and comedies with its breathtaking performances and friendly Broadway caliber. Arrow Rock State Historic Site is another locale that establishes community spirits by granting tourists a unique 1830s dining experience that resonates with the historic furnishings all around the landmark, as well as quaint shops and graceful audio-visual presentations. Missouri Folk Art Shop and Gallery is an unordinary housing locale that has restored works of art, leather, and jewelry in a way that intrigues artisans and travelers from all over town. Boone’s Lick State Historic Site is a getaway motivator with its natural salt springs and indigenous hiking routes for anyone seeking nature not far from the town’s outskirts.

New Haven

A beautiful house in New Haven, Missouri. 

A glorified small town with 2,356 residents, New Haven, is known for commercialized enjoyment and ambient stops. While tourists travel downtown, Paddle Stop Brewery is a discoverable locale that fancies wine-tasting and cultural variety. There is also the Robller Vineyard & Winery, with its cozy hillside glamors and world-class picnic pavilions. Travelers who are keen on seeing some art may be happy at the Astral Glass Studio, which features delicate glassblowing demonstrations for audiences to marvel at. While outdoors, visitors in this town can find hot air balloon riding, magnificent skyline views, and shade canopies at Lions Field Park. For tourists who prefer heartwarming bonfires and social wagon rides, Pin Oak Farms creates a vibrant and welcoming community with its fancy tree-cutting events and generous wreath decoration workshops. There are plenty of reasons to visit this outgoing small town with almost no downsides.

All of these small towns in Missouri share the importance of welcoming vibes and vibrant pleasures. Whether one is traveling through the Ozarks on a family vacation to witness history and nature or the wine backcountry pastures for shopping and fine dining, there are many opportunities to feel involved in the state. With so many locales to visit, this list should come in handy on one’s next trip to the Midwest.

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