From the Editor’s Desk

This Thursday’s edition looks at the people and decisions shaping Jefferson County, from neighbors working to meet urgent needs to local boards considering how public dollars should be used. It is a reminder that community service and public accountability often unfold side by side.

We also recognize the educators preparing students for a new school year, share the government meetings residents can attend, and introduce you to Crooked Tail, a dog who has waited far too long for a family of her own. Thank you for continuing to read, share, and stay engaged with the community we call home.

County Dispatch

Bowling for a Cause to Support The James II Project’s Growing Work Across Jefferson County

The James II Project serves 150 to 175 community members each week through meals in Arnold, Festus, and High Ridge, but its work extends far beyond the dinner table. See how the upcoming Bowling for a Cause fundraiser will help support meals, transportation, housing resources, treatment opportunities, and other direct care for neighbors throughout the community.

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New Board Members Join Arnold TDDs as Districts Prepare Another Change in Legal Counsel

Arnold’s transportation development districts have new faces at the table. Dr. Dena McCaffrey and Justin Price stepped into leadership roles as the boards reviewed budgets, unfinished projects, property purchases, and plans to once again change legal counsel.

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Jefferson County Council Approves Five-Year Capital Plan as Advocates Call for More Local Services

Jefferson County leaders approved a five-year capital plan, but public comments revealed a more immediate concern: residents struggling to find local treatment, recovery, housing, and meal assistance when they need it most. Read what advocates told the County Council and why so many people must leave Jefferson County to receive help.

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Education Desk

De Soto school leaders recognized educators and staff for their work preparing classrooms for students while also looking ahead to safety efforts, facility improvements, student achievement, and a new approach that will take future board meetings directly into schools across the district.

Weather

Forecast conditions may change. Check local weather alerts and updated forecasts before making outdoor plans.

Government Meetings

Adoptable Pet of the Week

Two years.

That’s how long Crooked Tail has been sitting at the shelter, watching other dogs find their families while she waits for someone to see what we see in her.

And honestly… why does no one want her?

She is sweet. She is playful. She loves going for walks in the woods, where she can sniff, explore, and simply enjoy being a dog.

She gets the zoomies and loves to play tag with her person—running, turning around to make sure you’re chasing her, and having the absolute best time.

She may not be the kind of dog who runs up and immediately trusts every stranger. She needs a little time to get to know you. But once she does?

She loves you with her whole heart.

Two years is far too long for a dog who has so much love and life left to give.

And there’s even more good news: her adoption fee has already been generously covered by a donor. Someone has already invested in giving her a chance. Now she just needs you to give her a home.

Please don’t let her spend another year waiting.

If you’ve ever believed that the overlooked dogs can be the most special ones, please consider meeting her. Give her a little time. Let her get to know you. And you might just find your best friend waiting behind that first shy hello.

Two years in a shelter. A lifetime of love still waiting.

Please share her story. Her person is out there. We just need to help them find each other.