Good morning, Jefferson City.

Bentley, a 3-year-old plott hound trained for over 20 weeks by inmate Nathan Hendricks at the Jefferson City Correctional Center, was released on a sunny Friday afternoon and will soon join an elderly farming couple’s home—he showed clear excitement for his new life outside the facility.

Fireworks tents popped up Friday as Missouri’s fireworks sale period began on June 20 with sales legal until July 10.

Experts advised residents to buy only from permitted stands and follow safety instructions — using fireworks on a hard, level surface and keeping a bucket of water nearby.

The Jefferson City Parks Department hosted Art Around Town, a self-guided gallery crawl with drinks, music — and art that supports local artists and businesses.

The Missouri Department of Conservation warned residents that summer brings more snake sightings and advised everyone to keep a safe distance from snakes.

The department noted there are 47 species including six venomous ones and said people should get medical help if bitten (this caution applies during outdoor activities).

Jefferson City had perfect weather Friday during the Mayor’s Cup golf tournament—an event that raised thousands for local parks.

Officials including Jefferson City School District Superintendent Bryan McGraw, former Mayor John Landwehr, Mayor Ron Fitzwater and City Administrator Brian Crane played at Oak Hills Golf Center.

Jefferson City officials may add a use tax—an extra charge on out-of-city purchases—to help close a revenue gap after the city's sales tax report came in nearly $400,000 below projections.

Supporters say the tax, set at 4.225%, could eventually generate almost $70 million to help address a budget shortfall exceeding $120 million.

Jefferson City council will vote on a $50,000 contract extension with Columbia airport — the agreement renews a minimum revenue guarantee aimed at attracting an airline company.

The Missouri Department of Transportation will upgrade traffic signals on Highway 50/63 and Rex M.

Whitton Expressway in Jefferson City with new detection systems scheduled for June 24-26 and July 1-2 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Some lanes will be closed during the work.

CETP 1 – Basic Principles & Practices

7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — Missouri Propane Gas Association — Cost unspecified — Introductory course for new industry workers covering propane properties, standards, and safety codes.