JEFFERSON REVIEW
THURSDAY EDITION
From the Editor’s Desk
A packed week of local news leads today’s Jefferson Review.
Crystal City leaders spotlight major progress at the James Hardie site while honoring a police officer with one of the state’s rarest medals for bravery. Meanwhile in Festus, emotions ran high as residents flooded the council chambers for a heated debate over the proposed data center and the city’s future growth.
You’ll also find the latest on the 2026 election season as candidate filing begins, plus your weekend weather outlook, a full lineup of local events, and this week’s adoptable pet looking for a forever home.
If it’s happening in Jefferson County, it’s inside today’s Jefferson Review.
County Dispatch
Crystal City Council Spotlights James Hardie Progress and Honors Officer’s Rare State Medal
A massive industrial project is taking shape near Airport Drive and city leaders say the scale is hard to grasp until you see the before and after. But the most powerful moment of the night came when Crystal City police officers were recognized for confronting a deadly suspect and saving lives in a high risk incident that earned one officer the state’s highest honor.
Here is what happened inside a packed and eventful council meeting.
Packed Festus Council Meeting Erupts in Heated Data Center Debate
A routine council meeting turned into one of the most intense public comment sessions Festus has seen in months, as residents packed the chamber to weigh in on the proposed data center and the city’s future growth. Supporters touted millions in potential tax revenue and job opportunities, while opponents warned of noise, transparency concerns, and impacts on nearby neighborhoods.
But the night did not stop there. Council members also advanced major infrastructure updates, approved a new Olive Garden development agreement, and greenlit upcoming community events and protests.
With emotions running high and major decisions moving forward, this meeting offered a clear snapshot of where Festus stands and where it may be headed next.
CASA of Jefferson County gives children in foster care something every kid deserves: a consistent adult in their corner.
Trained community volunteers are appointed by a judge to advocate for a child’s best interests—working with caseworkers, schools, and families, then sharing what they learn so the court can make the most informed decision.
Want to make a real local impact? Volunteer, donate, or sponsor to help CASA reach more children right here in Jefferson County.
Elections 2026
Tuesday marked the opening of filing for the August elections, and there were several surprises as candidates officially entered the race.
The Jefferson Review will continue to publish press releases from candidates as they are received.
Once filing closes, we will distribute questionnaires to all candidates to help inform voters ahead of the election. Stay with us as Jefferson County heads into what is shaping up to be a very busy election season.
Weather
Forecast for Jefferson County Missouri
Thursday
Thursday brings a mild and mostly quiet day across Jefferson County. Expect partly cloudy skies with afternoon highs in the upper 40s to low 50s. Morning hours will start chilly in the low 30s, so early commuters should plan for a cool start before gradual warming through the afternoon.
Friday
Friday turns a bit warmer and more unsettled. Highs should reach the mid to upper 50s with increasing cloud cover. A few scattered showers are possible later in the day and into the evening, so keep an umbrella handy if you have outdoor plans.
Saturday
Saturday looks to be the most active weather day of the stretch. Periods of rain are likely, especially during the morning and midday hours. Temperatures will stay mild, generally in the mid 50s, but it will feel cooler at times due to the damp conditions.
Sunday
Sunday improves as the system moves out. Expect partly cloudy skies with cooler air returning. Highs should settle back into the mid to upper 40s with a crisp feel in the morning and evening.
Weather forecasts can change Check a trusted local weather source before making outdoor plans
Jefferson County Events
AMVet Mania Live Pro Wrestling
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Doors Open: 6:00 PM
Bell Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Herculaneum AMVETS Post 42, 555 Joachim Ave, Herculaneum, MO 63048
Presented by: MMWA Pro Wrestling
Chili Cook Off
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Community of Christ Church, 2315 Londell Rd, Arnold, MO
Admission: Free to enter and free to taste
Judging: Rock Community Fire Department and members of the church
Contact: [email protected] | 636-296-7300
5th Annual DeSoto Chocolate Walk
Date: Saturday, February 28
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Details: Free chocolate treats while supporting De Soto small businesses (no purchase necessary)
Location: Participating businesses throughout De Soto
Fish Fry Fridays at Good Shepherd
Date: Friday, February 27, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 703 3rd St, Hillsboro, MO 63050
Menu Options: Catfish, Shrimp, Baked Tilapia, Cod
Pricing: Adults $14 | Child $6 | Extra $6 | Sides Only $6
Mamma Mia!
Presented by: Windsor Musical Theatre Department
Performance Dates & Times:
• Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 7:00 PM
• Friday, February 27, 2026 at 7:00 PM
• Sensory Friendly Performance: Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM
• Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 7:00 PM
• Sunday, March 1, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Price: $5.00
Location: Windsor High School Performing Arts Auditorium, 949 Windsor Harbor Rd, Imperial, MO 63052
Website: More Information
Contact: [email protected]
Rock-N-Roll Bingo
Date: Friday, February 27, 2026
Doors Open: 6:00 PM
Bingo Starts: 7:00 PM
Location: #4 Elks Acres (Main Hall), Crystal City, MO 63019
Pricing: $175 for a table of 8 or $25 per seat
Presented by: Mastodon Art/Science Regional Fair
Theme: Rock-N-Roll Hall of Famers (prize for best table decorations/costumes)
Contact: 314-529-1329 | [email protected]
Website: More Information
Winter Party in the Park
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Walther Park, 1551 Veterans Dr, De Soto, MO 63020
Website: More Information
Mouse Races on Main
Date: Friday, March 27, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Frederick’s Banquet & Catering, 201 E Main St, Festus, MO 63028
Price: $200 for a table of 8
Details: Includes an open bar
Website: More Information
Margarita Bill — Live Music
Date: Saturday, February 28
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: LaChance Vineyards, 12237 Peter Moore Ln, De Soto, MO 63020
Website: More Information
Leslie Craig Duo — Live Music
Date: Sunday, March 1
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: LaChance Vineyards, 12237 Peter Moore Ln, De Soto, MO 63020
Website: More Information
Adoptable Pet of the Week
This beautiful 11-month-old black-and-white Domestic Long Hair cat is ready to find her forever home.
She’s an outgoing, playful sweetheart who loves to be in the middle of the action and will happily entertain you with her silly antics. She even enjoys being brushed, making bonding time extra special.
She can be just a little too playful for small children, so she’d do best in a home without young kids where she can truly shine.
She’s spayed and her $50 adoption fee includes vaccinations, deworming, flea and tick treatment, and a microchip. She’s all set to start her next adventure.
If you’re looking for a fun, fluffy companion with tons of personality, she’s your girl.
