Good morning, Jefferson City.

Missouri Education Commissioner Karla Eslinger said on Wednesday that the state must change its approach to support struggling schools as she described the current method as cookie cutter.

She stated that DESE needs to improve its data handling, manage federal funds better and improve public communications while the board will review her progress annually.

Missouri climatologists are rethinking drought measurements as modern models and century-old records challenge old 'normal' weather standards that affect funding and crop planning.

The National Academies study will meet on July 15—while experts like climatologist Zack Leasor balance past data with today’s trends to update drought assessments.

The Department of Natural Resources released its update for the week of July 10 showing that all state park beaches were open for swimming—except the beach at Thousand Hills State Park, which remained closed for renovations.

Today, a City Council committee advanced proposals to raise pay grades for Public Works staff and to raise permit fees for construction on the city's right of way.

One councilman suggested that department heads aim even higher for both pay and permits (the proposals will be reviewed in an upcoming meeting).

Sen. Josh Hawley defended his vote for the Medicaid funding bill even as critics said he changed his stance.

He said the bill will add $1 billion for rural hospitals by the end of the decade—while one study warns Missouri could lose about 14% of its federal funding over the next ten years.

Gov. Mike Kehoe signed a bill on Thursday that repeals paid sick leave for Missouri workers who began accruing it on May 1— the repeal will take effect Aug.

28 as part of other measures signed to support small businesses.

Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe signed Senate Bill 160—Danny’s Law—which will take effect on Aug.

28 to boost student safety by granting students immunity when they call 911 or provide aid during hazing emergencies. The law, named after former University of Missouri student Danny Santulli who was injured by hazing, is promoted by the Missouri Greek Alliance.

The state has begun work on a new 150,000-square-foot consolidated warehouse complex in Jefferson City using $26.3 million—appropriated in 2022—to support the project.

Work started Thursday at 4720 Scruggs Station Road near the old Unilever and Porite warehouse sites.

Old Soul Savage Live Performance

8 PM – 2 AM — The Outpost Bar & Grill — Cover charge TBD — Enjoy a night of rock, pop, and country hits with Old Soul Savage.

Fiddler on the Roof

7:30-10:00 p.m. — Miller Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices not listed — Experience the charm and heartfelt songs of this beloved Broadway classic.