The latest local news, weather and high school sports in and around Columbia and Jefferson City

The Winter/Spring 2013 spotter training season is underway. Classes will be held throughout mid-Missouri counties until about the first of April.

Classes are open to everyone whether you want to actually be a volunteer storm spotter or not. If you just want to learn more about severe weather or how to prepare and protect yourself, then a spotter training class is the place to be.

You can attend any class that is convenient for you. They're free and open to the public. If there's a number provided, it's suggested to call ahead to reserve a space.

If your county is not listed, it's possible that it may be added later. Just in case one isn't, I suggest attending the meeting closest to you.  These dates are subject to change.

Montgomery County - January 31, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.
Montgomery County R-II High School, 394 Highway 19, Montgomery City, MO
Contact Montgomery County EMA: Bob Bishop - 573-564-2283

Audrain County - February 5, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.
Jensen Auditorium, Audrain Medical Center, 620 E Monroe St., Mexico, MO
Contact Audrain County EMA: Steve Shaw - 573-473-5892

Gasconade County - February 11, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.
Owensville High School, 3336 Highway 19 North, Owensville, MO
Contact Owensville EMA:  Dan Dyer- 573-437-2196

Randolph County - February 13, 2013 at 7:00 p.m.
"The Lodge", 111 Rothwell Park Road, Moberly, MO

Postponed (make up date not available)
Cooper County - February 21, 2013 at 7:00 p.m.
200 Main St., Suite 911, Boonville, MO

Postponed (make up date:Thursday, March 28)
Laclede County - February 21, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.
Contact: Randy Rowe - 417-532-6992

Postponed (make up date:Thursday, March 28)
Phelps County - February 21, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.
Contact: Sandy North - 573-201-9741

Postponed (make up date:Thursday, March 28)
Pulaski County - February 21, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.
Basement Community Room, Pulaski County Courthouse, Waynesville, MO
Contact: Smitty Smith - 573-774-7393

Postponed (make up date March 20)
Osage County - February 26, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.
County Emergency Operations Center, 205 E Main St., Linn, MO
Contact Osage County EMA: Andrea Rice - 573-897-3561 ext 220

Recently Added
Cole County - February 28, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.
Jefferson City Police Training Room, 401 Monroe Street, Jefferson City, MO
Contact Cole County EMA: Bill Farr - 573-634-9146

Saline County - March 11, 2013 at 7:00 p.m.
Saline County Ambulance Building, 354 W Arrow, Marshall, MO

Callaway County - April 2, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.
Civic Center, 282 South Greenway, Holts Summit, MO
Contact Callaway County EMA: Michelle Kidwell - 573-592-2480

Morgan County - April 8, 2013 at 6:30 p.m.
Justice Center, Versailles, MO
Contact: Rick Bias -number not available