Good morning, Jefferson City.

The Zonta Club of Jefferson City is asking for nominations for a 2026 Women of Achievement award that will honor local women for their work or service and recognize them at the Yellow Rose Luncheon on May 21.

Nominations must be submitted by Oct. 31.

SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital will hold a Heritage Festival on Oct.

18—marking 120 years since its dedication day.

About 40 middle and high school students visited Lincoln University for its first 4-H Day that offered hands-on workshops in aquaculture, cooking, and community gardening.

Lincoln officials said the event—featuring a college football game and various learning sessions—sparked greater interest in higher education among the participants.

Scouts from local troops showcased their skills in technology and design at the Invention Jamboree last weekend in Gravois Mills—organized by the Great Rivers Scouting Council at the Sinquefield Invention Campus at Lake of the Ozarks Scout Reservation.

Today, the Jefferson City School District Board of Education will finalize next year's school calendar — setting school dates for 2026-27 during its regular October board meeting.

Meteorologist Trevor Roubadeaux explained that falling leaves change color because trees produce less chlorophyll—letting carotenoids show yellow, orange, or red—and said that peak color will occur in Mid-Missouri between October 23rd and 31st.

Jefferson City Council approved an $86,836,166 budget for the next fiscal year that matches revenue but cuts nearly $10 million from last year's actual spending while police and fire departments gain about $800,000 each.

The plan lowers capital projects by over $11 million and drops contractual services by about $5.4 million—materials, supplies and school resource officer funding are increased.

Central Missouri Community Action’s Head Start program serving about 600 families secured funding until next spring—despite fears that a government shutdown might slow automated grant payments.

The nonprofit is preparing contingency plans to manage potential delays in receiving funds.

Food banks in mid-Missouri are preparing for increased demand as the government shutdown enters its second week—officials fear delayed paychecks may force more people to seek help and increase SNAP requests if the shutdown continues.

Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags to be flown at half-staff on Saturday from sunrise to sunset at state buildings to honor Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Cully—an Ozark native who died on September 17 in a training accident near Joint Base Lewis McChord.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services said three people died from West Nile virus in Missouri, with one death in St. Louis County and the other two in Grundy and St. Charles counties after contracting the virus in August.

The report noted 16 human cases and 15 hospitalizations this year - an increase from last year.

Raise Your Glass for Capital City CASA

Join us for a meaningful evening of food, fun, and fundraising—all in support of abused and neglected children who need a voice in the courtroom. The event will feature guest speaker, Josh Shipp.

Faded Youth Dance Night

7-10 p.m. — Capital Ritz Banquet & Dance Center — BYOB, snacks to share — Enjoy a fun night of dancing to live music with the Let's Dance Club.

Old Soul Savage Live Performance

9 PM – 1 AM — Twisted Pickles — Check website for cost — Enjoy a night of multi-genre rock and roll hits from the talented band Old Soul Savage.

Novel Ideas Book Group

6:45-7:45 p.m. — Missouri River Regional Library — Free entry — Dive into the captivating world of The Otherwoods with fellow 6th-8th graders and enjoy refreshments.

Wednesday Evening Yoga

5:15-6:15 p.m. — Missouri River Regional Library — Free entry — Rejuvenate your mind and body with an inclusive yoga class for all abilities.

Social Bridge Gameplay

1-3:30 p.m. — Missouri River Regional Library — Free entry — Engage in fun and friendly Bridge games suitable for all skill levels.

Magdalene Rose: The Anthems Tour

7-11 p.m. — Capital West Christian Church Event Center — Free admission — Enjoy a night of uplifting music featuring Disciple and Seventh Day Slumber.

Genealogy Help Sessions

1-4 p.m. — Missouri River Regional Library — Free entry — Get personalized assistance with your genealogy research from expert Laura Loyborg.

Thursday Morning Yoga

9:30-10:30 a.m. — Missouri River Regional Library — Free entry — Rejuvenate your mind and body in a welcoming environment for all abilities.

Trick or Treat at Heisinger Bluffs

1-2 p.m. — Heisinger Bluffs Senior Living Community — Community event — Celebrate Halloween with fun treats and activities, rain or shine.

17th Annual Trunk or Treat

2-5 p.m. — Cole County Fair — $1 per child — Enjoy a festive trunk or treat event supporting Operation TOYS.