Good morning, Jefferson City.

Two unidentified Jefferson City residents died early Saturday morning in a fiery crash in Cole County when a 37-year-old woman driving a Ford Focus left Route C near Zion Road at 2:20 a.m.—hitting a tree and igniting a fire that claimed her life and that of a 38-year-old passenger as the Missouri State Highway Patrol investigates the incident.

First Watch, a new restaurant focused on health-minded breakfast, brunch and lunch, will open its doors Monday at 1709 Missouri Blvd in the plaza with Schnucks.

The eatery will serve fresh and nutritious options to attract daytime diners.

The Green Button, a local alteration shop, is moving from Jefferson Street to 621 W.

McCarty St. and will open on Wednesday. The shop offers clothing alterations, tailoring, and repair services (operating 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Wednesday to Friday).

Diocese schools are expanding mental health programs and hiring new counselors to help students deal with anxiety and conflict.

Several schools, including St. Stanislaus, St. Francis Xavier, and St. Martin, have added counselors and new lessons—designed to nurture both emotional well-being and faith start the new school year.

City staff and Mayor Ron Fitzwater are working with the Finance Department and City Administrator Brian Crane to prepare a draft of the 2026 city budget, which will be available for public viewing in less than a month—10 council members meet twice a week starting this month to balance the proposal.

County officials said Cole County's penal system is overwhelmed by a heavy state caseload — a cramped courthouse, a small jail and a strict pre-trial release program — which contribute to the backlog.

County auditor Mark Ruether retired Friday after 42 years as a financial officer in state and county governments and now faces the challenge of retirement (a new phase in his life).

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.

Catch Me If You Can Obstacle Race

9:30 a.m. — Ellis-Porter Riverside Pool — $35 — Participants aged 6-17 tackle fun obstacles, including slides and mud pits, while adults can join in for a small fee.

Lincoln Blue Tigers vs. Lincoln University Lions Football Game

6:30-8 p.m. — Dwight T. Reed Stadium — Free entry — Cheer for local teams in this exciting college football matchup.