JEFFERSON REVIEW

SUNDAY EDITION

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From the Editor’s Desk

This week’s edition of The Jefferson Review is packed with the kind of local stories that show Jefferson County in motion, from hometown festivals and government decisions to neighbors serving others, small businesses building something lasting, and local families looking for something meaningful to do close to home.

We are also preparing to launch our Jefferson Review Voter’s Guide. Next week, we will begin sending questionnaires to candidates so readers can hear directly from the people asking to represent them. Our goal is simple: give Jefferson County voters a clear, useful, and local resource before they head to the ballot box.

In This Edition
Kimmswick Strawberry Festival Returns
One of Jefferson County’s favorite small-town traditions is back with food, music, vendors, family attractions, and the charm that makes Kimmswick a destination weekend after weekend.
Jefferson County Runner Cody Poskin Takes Third in 250-Mile Ultramarathon
A Northwest High School graduate and Cedar Hill native has earned a major finish in one of the toughest endurance races in the country.
Festus Council Faces Continued Pressure Over Data Center Debate
Residents continue pressing city leaders as the debate over transparency, outside counsel, recall efforts, and the proposed data center remains front and center.
Those Who Serve: Tara Lang on Creative Housing Solutions
Tara Lang of Chestnut Health Systems shares why Jefferson County needs practical, creative approaches to help residents move from crisis toward stability, support, and recovery.
Local Life, Local Business, and Local Events
This edition also features Garage Renovators, upcoming government meetings, community events across Jefferson County, the weekly weather forecast, and Cosmo, our Adoptable Pet of the Week.
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County Dispatch

the latest stories from across Jefferson County
Kimmswick Strawberry Festival Invites Families Back for a Weekend of Food, Music and Small-Town Charm
Kimmswick Strawberry Festival graphic with strawberries

Kimmswick’s beloved Strawberry Festival returns with more than 125 vendors, live music, family attractions, artisan foods, and the small-town hospitality that makes one of Jefferson County’s historic jewels feel like home.

Jefferson County Runner Cody Poskin Claims Third Overall in 250-Mile Ultramarathon
[COUNTY DISPATCH STORY 2 ALT TEXT]

A Jefferson County runner just placed himself among the best in one of America’s toughest endurance races. Cody Poskin, a Cedar Hill native and Northwest High School graduate, finished third overall in the 250-mile Cocodona ultramarathon, cutting 13 hours off his previous time and proving that a local running journey can lead to the front of the pack.

Festus Council Tables Outside Counsel Vote as Residents Keep Pressure on Data Center Debate
[COUNTY DISPATCH STORY 3 ALT TEXT

The night began with a heartfelt recognition of Festus Special Olympics athletes, but soon turned back to the city’s biggest political fight: the proposed data center, recall efforts, outside legal counsel, and growing questions over transparency.

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Those Who Serve

short profiles of Jefferson County neighbors who answer the call
Tara Lang Says Jefferson County Needs Creative Housing Solutions
Tara Lang | Chestnut Health Systems | Jefferson County
Tara Lang

Tara Lang has spent years working with people in crisis, and she says Jefferson County will need practical, creative housing solutions to help more residents move from instability toward recovery, safety, and long-term support.

Those Who Serve highlights the Jefferson County neighbors who work in public safety, social work, community care, and other service professions that help hold our communities together.
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Opinions

voices from across Jefferson County
Know When, Where, Why, and How to Vote
By: Colby Smith-Hynes
Colby Smith-Hynes
Photo courtesy of electjudgecolbysmith-hynes.com

In this opinion piece, Colby Smith-Hynes encourages Jefferson County residents to know when, where, why, and how to vote ahead of the August Primary, emphasizing voter registration, absentee voting, and the importance of civic participation.

The views expressed in this opinion are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Jefferson Review. Opinion submissions are open to members of the community and are published to provide a platform for local perspectives, public discussion, and civic dialogue.
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Business Spotlight

Local Businesses • Local Stories • Jefferson County
Garage Renovators: Transforming the Ordinary Into Extraordinary
Garage Renovators logo
Garage Renovators helps homeowners turn garages, basements, and other concrete spaces into finished, durable, and practical extensions of the home.

From epoxy flooring to full garage transformations, Garage Renovators is helping Jefferson County homeowners see new possibilities in ordinary spaces, combining craftsmanship, durability, and a finished look built for everyday use.

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Weather

forecast for Jefferson County Missouri
Sunday, May 17
High: 88°F / Low: 73°F
Breezy in the morning; otherwise, partly sunny and very warm.
Monday, May 18
High: 83°F / Low: 74°F
Windy with times of sun and clouds, with an afternoon thunderstorm possible.
Tuesday, May 19
High: 79°F / Low: 56°F
Cloudy and humid with a couple of showers and a thunderstorm. Storms may bring localized damaging wind gusts.
Wednesday, May 20
High: 71°F / Low: 49°F
Pleasant and less humid with a blend of sun and clouds.
Thursday, May 21
High: 74°F / Low: 49°F
Mostly sunny and nice.

Forecasts are subject to change. Readers should check local weather alerts and official forecasts for the latest conditions before making plans.

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Government Meetings

Monday, May 18, 2026
De Soto City Council Meeting
De Soto City Hall, 17 Boyd Street, De Soto, MO 63020
6:00 PM
Crystal City City Council Meeting
Crystal City Hall, 130 Mississippi Avenue, Crystal City, MO 63019
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Herculaneum Board of Aldermen Meeting
Herculaneum City Hall, 1 Parkwood Court, Herculaneum, MO 63048
7:00 PM
Pevely Board of Aldermen Meeting
Pevely City Hall, 401 Main Street, Pevely, MO 63070
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Byrnes Mill Board of Alderpersons Meeting
Byrnes Mill City Hall, 141 Osage Executive Circle, Byrnes Mill, MO 63051
6:30 PM
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Arnold City Council Meeting
City of Arnold Council Chambers, 2101 Jeffco Boulevard, Arnold, MO 63010
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
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Community Events

happenings across Jefferson County
Monday, May 18
Book & Cook: Fruit Whip
Time: 4:30 PM – 5:15 PM
Location: Arnold Branch
Jefferson County Library
1701 Missouri State Rd
Arnold, MO 63010
Cost: Free
Game Of Thrones Trivia
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Arnold Meeting Room, Arnold Branch
Jefferson County Library
1701 Missouri State Rd
Arnold, MO 63010
Cost: Free
Vinyl Record Painting
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Northwest Community Room, Northwest Branch
Jefferson County Library
5680 State Road PP
High Ridge, MO 63049
Cost: Free
Tuesday, May 19
The Morning Brew Book Club
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Northwest Meeting Room, Northwest Branch
Jefferson County Library — Northwest Branch
5680 State Road PP
High Ridge, MO 63049
Cost: Free
NEW Mystery/Suspense Book Club - Evening Edition
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Cedar Hill Children's Room, Cedar Hill
Jefferson County Library — Cedar Hill Satellite
6780 Mall Drive
Cedar Hill, MO 63016
Cost: Free
Wednesday, May 20
Fire Breathing Dragon Craft | Fantasy, Fairy Tales, and Fables
Time: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Cedar Hill Children's Room, Cedar Hill
Jefferson County Library — Cedar Hill Satellite
6780 Mall Drive
Cedar Hill, MO 63016
Cost: Free
Hillsboro Farmers Market
Time: 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Bridle Ridge Acres
10875 Hwy 21
Hillsboro, MO 63050
Cost: Free entry
Friday, May 22 through Sunday, May 24
Tanglefoot Dance Hall Soft Opening
Time: Friday and Saturday, 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM; Sunday, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Tanglefoot Dance Hall
201 E. Main St.
Festus, MO 63028
Cost: Not listed
Upcoming Events
Youth Fire Camp
Date: Monday, June 8 through Friday, June 12, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Rock Community Fire Protection District
3749 Telegraph Road
Arnold, MO 63010
Cost: Not listed
Phone: 636-296-2211 ext. 7111
Bowling for a Cause: One Meal Can Change a Life!
Date: Sunday, August 30, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Concord Bowl
11801 Tesson Ferry Road
St. Louis, MO 63128
Cost: $30 per person or $160 per lane, 6 bowlers
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Adoptable Pet of the Week

Cosmo
Animal ID: 826602
Cosmo, an adoptable German Shepherd

Poof! Your wish for the perfect pup has been granted!

Hiya! The name’s Cosmo—yes, that Cosmo energy—and I’m a goofy, lovable German Shepherd on a mission to find my very own Wanda!

I’m basically happiness with paws. I don’t know a stranger, I love everyone I meet, and I’m always ready to tag along wherever you go. Whether it’s an adventure or just hanging out, I’m your guy. Think of me as your personal bundle of chaos and cuddles—with a heart of gold.

Now… I’ll be honest… I might not always be the sharpest crayon in the box and sometimes I get a little distracted (okay, very distracted). My “selective hearing” isn’t on purpose—I just get SO excited about the world around me! That’s why I’m searching for my perfect Wanda—someone experienced with German Shepherds who can guide me, keep me on track, and help me be the best boy I can be.

The magical details:

· Adoption Fee: $135

· Vaccinated

· Dewormed

· Flea & Tick Treated

· Microchipped

· Neutered

So, if you’ve been wishing for a loyal, goofy, big-hearted companion to bring a little extra magic (and maybe a little chaos ) into your life…

Your Cosmo is right here, waiting for you.

Jefferson Review Eagle on Missouri

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