Local

The Columbia Fire Department and the Boone County Fire Protection District responded to three car accidents Monday night.

On Monday, Columbia Second Chance began moving from its location on Ash Street to its new headquarters, which sits on 38 acres off Highway 179 in Cooper County, about 13 miles west of Columbia.

Columbia city offices began moving Monday into the $22 million new addition to existing Daniel Boone City Building. All moves into the new building should be complete by the end of March, Assistant City Manager Tony St. Romaine said.

Erickson says Ryan Ferguson "had no idea that I would act in such an aggressive manner. …  He could not stop me, though he tried at the end.”

Ferguson has been in prison for four years serving a sentence of 40 years for murder.

Erickson's statement became public Monday as part of a motion filed by Ferguson's lawyer.

Chuck Erickson's recanted testimony in the Ryan Ferguson murder case has prompted more questions than answers.

Monday night's School Board meeting calls for some budget cuts.

Several students from MU's English and Professional Immersion program visit the fire department and learn about different equipment.

Boone County Treasurer Kay Murray announced her retirement Monday after 33 years in the position. Murray is one year into her eighth consecutive term. Murray's retirement is effective Feb. 28. Boone County statutes require that either the Boone County Commission or the governor appoint someone to serve in the interim.

Interviews will be a two-day process and will involve a variety of meetings and activities.

On Feb. 23, planning officials will present preliminary findings for the East Columbia Area Plan. The study is intended to guide future growth in a roughly 21-square-mile area east of Columbia. A planned extension of Stadium Boulevard is likely to bring large-scale development to the area, most of which is outside city limits.

Ryan Ferguson's father contacted attorney Kathleen Zellner, who will have a movie made about her, to be his son's lawyer in November 2009. Now, the key witness against Ferguson has recanted his testimony.

Supporters of the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act are holding a "puppy love" meeting open to the public Thursday. The meeting will include speakers, live music and information about the proposed legislation.

Randy Judkins instructs juggling, miming and other types of physical humor as Stephens College's world dance visiting artist.

Beet juice, which is more expensive but more environmentally friendly than calcium chloride and salt, is emerging as a sound alternative for fighting snow and ice on streets.

CJ's in Tiger Country and Buffalo Wild Wings are two local restaurants featuring chicken wings expecting big business on Super Bowl Sunday.

AmerenUE's proposed electric rate change could decrease industrial customer rates and increase residential rates. 

MU Children's Hospital will be given a check for $50,000 as a result of radio station Y107 winning a contest sponsored by Children's Miracle Network

The NAACP also endorsed several legislative efforts to alter death penalty law in Missouri.

The Mid Missouri Lacrosse League builds a base for youth lacrosse to grow in Columbia by starting a youth children's youth league.