Good morning, Jefferson City.

On March 5, the Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri announced it received a $100,000 grant from Veterans United Foundation in Columbia.

The funds will be used to improve food acquisition and distribution in rural areas of its 32-county service area.

Marilee Dirkes, one of only five female firefighters among 69, has served Jefferson City for eight years.

She said that while working with her male colleagues she sometimes feels extra pressure — children often admire her role as a community trailblazer.

Jefferson City's 200-year-old Missouri State Penitentiary draws visitors as America's 250th birthday nears, offering a look at a site built in 1836 by inmate labor and scarred by three tornadoes.

Local advocates plan to preserve its legacy so the lessons of its past continue to be shared.

Lincoln University is accepting applications for its AAS Nursing Program at the Fort Leonard Wood campus; classes will begin in August for students who apply by April 1 (requirements include exam scores and letters of reference).

MoDOT will permanently close the paved parking lot and playground at North Jefferson City Recreation Area on Friday, March 13—tree removal and new ramp construction on U.S. 54 will lead to the equipment’s relocation to Green Berry Acres Park while nearby fields and parking areas remain open.

Sen. Kurtis Gregory presented Senate Bill 1079 during a Missouri Senate committee hearing on Wednesday.

The bill highlighted how a film tax incentive has attracted big-budget productions like Ted Lasso and DTF St. Louis to boost local economies, with experts suggesting further improvements to keep momentum.

The Lady Jays scored a record 88 points on Wednesday night in the Class 5 District 5 Tournament semifinal at Fleming Fieldhouse, beating the Union Lady Wildcats 88-29 and setting a new program high.

This win marks their 10th appearance in a district championship game in 11 seasons.

March Community Hike

1:30-2:30 p.m. — Washington Park — Free entry — Family-friendly hike exploring the scenic greenway segments of Washington Park.

St. Martin's Fish Fry

4:30-7:00 p.m. — St. Martin Catholic School Gym — $14 Adults, $7 Children ages 6-12, 5 & under Free — Enjoy a delicious meal of fish and fries while supporting the community.

Jefferson City Community Band Spring Concert

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Calvary Lutheran High School — Free entry — Celebrate the arrival of spring with a delightful evening of music from the community band.

Concert by Convictions

5-8:30 p.m. — Capital Music Company & Record Safari — Ticket prices vary — Experience the poignant music of Convictions featuring emotionally charged lyrics and captivating performances.

Runge in Your Backyard – Slither into Spring!

10 AM - 12 PM — McClung Park Indoor Pavilion — Free entry — Experience hands-on encounters with local Missouri wildlife and crafts while enjoying complimentary snacks.

Jaycee’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt

11 a.m. — Binder Park — Proceeds benefit local community projects — Enjoy a fun-filled day of egg hunting for children up to 9 years old.