Community
Community coverage from O’Fallon and across the region.
Recent coverage
Missouri Residents Face Renewed Measles Concerns
Recent data indicate a significant increase in measles cases across the United States, reaching levels not seen in 35 years. Missouri health officials are monitoring the national trend, urging residents to ensure their vaccinations are current to prevent local outbreaks.
Missouri's Amish Population Sees Significant Growth, Influencing Rural Areas
Missouri holds the seventh-largest Amish population nationwide, experiencing substantial growth. This expansion is partly due to the availability of affordable agricultural land.
Editorial Cartoonist John Darkow Comments on Political Advertising
Editorial cartoonist John Darkow recently released new artwork. The cartoon visually interprets a common sentiment regarding current political campaign advertisements.
Ashland FFA Members Attend Floral Design Event
Ashland Future Farmers of America (FFA) students participated in a floral design symposium in Orlando, Florida. The event featured educational sessions and networking opportunities for those in the floriculture field.
Ashland Residents Recognized for July Home Landscaping
Destry and William Moffat's Ashland property received the July Yard of the Month award. The couple significantly improved their home's landscaping since moving to the area in October 2025.
Editorial Cartoon Published
The Missouri Dispatch features an editorial cartoon by John Darkow. This visual commentary offers a perspective on current events.
Young Entrepreneur Plans Future on Family Ranch Amid Industry Shifts
A 12-year-old in Boone County prepares to continue his family's ranching operation. This generational commitment occurs as family-owned agricultural businesses face increasing challenges statewide.
Columbia Resident Nancy Little Dies at 70
Nancy Little, a Columbia resident, passed away at age 70 on July 9 while receiving hospice care. She was at the home of her daughter and son-in-law.
Editorial Cartoon by John Darkow
This editorial cartoon was created by John Darkow. It offers a visual commentary on current events.
East Ash Street Closure Begins as U.S. 54 Ramp to I-70 Westbound Reopens in Columbia
East Ash Street in Columbia has closed for ongoing roadwork. Simultaneously, the U.S. 54 on-ramp providing access to Interstate 70 westbound is now open to traffic.
July New Moon Offers Prime Star-Gazing Conditions
The new moon phase begins on July 14, providing an optimal opportunity for observing the Milky Way. Minimal lunar light will enhance the visibility of celestial objects.
Kansas Community Prepares to Host Algerian Delegation
A Kansas town developed specialized cultural and linguistic skills, including Halal food preparation, Arabic, and French, to welcome an Algerian delegation. This initiative highlights efforts to ensure visitors' comfort and respect cultural norms.
Habitat for Humanity, CraftCycle Mark Partnership Milestone
Habitat for Humanity of Central Missouri and CoMo CraftCycle commemorated a year of collaboration with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Attendees celebrated the successful partnership between the two organizations.
Editorial Cartoonist John Darkow Publishes New Work
Editorial cartoonist John Darkow recently released a new cartoon. The artwork reflects current events through a visual commentary.
Missouri communities participate in Declaration of Independence readings
Eleven Missouri locations joined 796 sites nationwide to read the Declaration of Independence simultaneously. This event occurred on Wednesday.
Missouri Residents Face Increased Tick Activity Amidst National Surge
Recent data indicates a significant increase in tick encounters across the United States. Missouri public health officials advise residents to take precautions when outdoors due to the rising numbers.
Editorial Cartoon Addresses Political Commentary
Artist John Darkow created a new editorial cartoon. The drawing offers visual commentary on current political topics.
Columbia Educators Operate Mobile Flower Business
Two educators from Columbia Public Schools operate a floral business from a refurbished Volkswagen van. The mobile flower shop offers handcrafted bouquets to customers.
Safety Guidelines Issued for July Fourth Festivities
State officials released recommendations for safe Independence Day celebrations this year. The advice aims to prevent common injuries and incidents associated with holiday activities.
Editorial cartoon published
The Missouri Dispatch published an editorial cartoon. Staff artist John Darkow created the piece.
The Missouri Dispatch Daily Brief
The morning briefing from the Missouri Dispatch newsroom — delivered to your inbox before 7 a.m.