Overnight fire destroys vacant farmhouse

Shortly after dusk on Thursday evening, dispatch received a call of a structure fire on county road 5001 just south of F highway in Bates county prompting the response of Butler, Adrian and Amsterdam fire departments. As the structure was mostly on the ground upon arrival, the landowner was contacted who stated "let it burn" and fire personnel were released from the scene.

The cause at this time is undetermined. -Staff photo


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Cooler weekend ahead

The cold front bringing the strong storms tonight will chill us out overnight.

Pay attention to those Saturday night -> Sunday lows approaching freezing.

We stay cool to start off next week.

Sponsored by Renee Welliver LeRosen, Realtor, Homeland Realty

-Greg@660weather


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Multi-Agency Effort Leads to Arrest of Two Wanted Subjects

Recently, the Nevada Police Department requested assistance from the United States Marshals Service in locating and apprehending a wanted subject believed to be hiding in Nevada. Over the last week, Nevada Police coordinated closely with the U.S. Marshals Service in an effort to locate the subject. Information obtained during the investigation indicated the subject was potentially armed and unlikely to surrender peacefully to law enforcement.

Several investigative leads were developed that led law enforcement to a residence in the 800 block of North Tucker Street this afternoon. It was determined that two subjects with outstanding felony warrants were inside the residence, one of whom was the primary subject Nevada Police and the U.S. Marshals Service had been attempting to locate.

Multiple commands were issued to the subjects advising them to exit the residence; however, both subjects failed to comply with lawful commands. Nevada Police coordinated with the Vernon County Prosecutor’s Office to obtain a search warrant for the residence. Nevada Police also requested assistance from the Bates County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Team.

During the approximately four-hour standoff, law enforcement deployed less-lethal munitions inside the residence. Eventually, one of the subjects surrendered to law enforcement. After the primary target of the investigation continued to refuse to exit the residence, the Bates County Tactical Team made entry into the home and successfully located and apprehended the subject.

Nevada Police took both wanted subjects into custody, and they were transported to the Vernon County Jail.

The two subjects have been identified as Isaiah Davis and Trevor Hull, both of Nevada. Davis had a failure-to-appear warrant for his arrest for felony burglary, stealing, and unlawful use of a weapon. Hull had a warrant for felony burglary and stealing, along with an additional felony warrant out of Kansas.

The Nevada Police Department would like to thank the United States Marshals Service, Vernon County Sheriff’s Office, Vernon County Prosecutor, and Bates County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance during this investigation.

Law enforcement agencies throughout this region remain dedicated to working together to keep our communities safe.

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Obituary - James Shannon

James W. Shannon, 89, of Nevada, MO, passed away on Monday, March 30, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield. Jim was born October 29, 1936, in Springfield, MO to W. W. Shannon and V. Azalea (Hilsabeck) Shannon. He married the love of his life, Mary Alice Hensley, on June 6, 1958, in Mansfield, MO.

      Jim was a 1954 graduate of Central High School in Springfield. While a high school and college student, Jim played for the Springfield Symphony. He attended Southwest Missouri State (SMS) graduating with a B.S. in Music Education and a minor in Business. In addition, during the early years Jim served in the U.S. Naval Reserve for eight years. Jim served as vocal & instrumental director for one year at Stockton, MO before going to Dallas where he received his Masters in Music Education from Southern Methodist University. Jim returned to southwest Missouri where he served as vocal and instrumental director for Monett and band director for Nevada R-5 school districts from 1960 - 1989. Jim was a longtime and active member of the United Methodist Church of Nevada where he both sang and served as director of their Chancel Choir and served 15 years as director of the Bell Choir. After retirement he enjoyed playing what he called “Geezer Golf”, taking care of his dogs, following NHS sports, and celebrating the accomplishments of his grandchildren with his wife of 68 years.

      In addition to his wife, Mary Alice, he is survived by three children; Jim Shannon (Brenda) Springfield, MO, Shari Halvorson (Rev. Dr. Alf) Houston, TX, and Mike Shannon (Jennie) Strafford, MO; seven grandchildren, Sarah Weston (Cameron), Nick Shannon (Morgan), Matt Halvorson (Ellie), Kristen Johnson (Brett), Libby Collier (Brett), Molly Shannon and Sophie Shannon; and two great-grandchildren, Graham Collier and Amos Halvorson.

     Memorial services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026, at United Methodist Church in Nevada with Pastor Alf Halvorson and Rev. Michelle Whitlock officiating. Interment will follow on Saturday, May 16, at the Mansfield Cemetery in Mansfield, MO.   Those wishing to honor him are invited to make donations in his memory to the United Methodist Youth program, the Nevada High School music program, or any reputable dog rescue organization.

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Unfounded animal abuse call results in theft recovery

On 04/02/2026 at approximately 1140 hours, Vernon County Deputy Hackleman and Sgt. Goodwin responded to a residence in the Compton Junction area following a report of suspected animal abuse.

During the course of the investigation, deputies determined that the allegations of neglect and abuse were unfounded, and the animal in question was found to be properly cared for.

However, while on scene, deputies observed multiple county street signs in plain view in the backyard of the residence. Further investigation revealed the signs were believed to be stolen property. The items were recovered and returned to the appropriate township.

Sheriff Buehler stated, "This incident reflects the professionalism, diligence, and commitment his deputies demonstrate daily while serving the citizens of Vernon County. Their attention to detail and willingness to thoroughly investigate each call for service ensures that additional offenses are identified and addressed, even when they are not part of the original complaint."

Sheriff Buehler would also like to remind the public that theft of any kind will not be tolerated in Vernon County—no matter how big or small.

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Whirlwinds show their artistic side

Archie Whirlwind art students went to Rich Hill this week to compete in this year's WEMO art show and competition

A special congratulations to Harmony Hundtoft for placing 1st in figure drawing, Eleanor Leslie for placing 1st in painting still life, and Ella Reinhardt for placing 2nd in painting still life. In the visual show, a special congratulations to Kathleen Bryant for placing 1st in the 3-D sculpture category and Eleanor Leslie for placing 3rd in 3-D sculpture.

Courtesy Archie Schools


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Hume High School Celebrates Decision Day 2026

Hume High School proudly recognized 11 graduating seniors during our annual Decision Day, celebrating the Class of 2026 and the exciting paths they’ve chosen for their futures!

This special event gives students the chance to share their next steps and thank the people who helped them get there. Surrounded by family, staff, and community supporters, it was a powerful reminder that no one reaches this milestone alone.

We were honored to hear from alumni Michael Brooks, retired Air Force veteran and business owner, who encouraged students to pursue excellence and reminded supporters to always be their biggest cheerleaders.

Our seniors have expressed confidence in their future plans and are headed in incredible directions:

3 students → Ozark Technical Community College (radiologic tech, nursing, respiratory therapy)

1 student → Fort Scott Rodeo Team + Agriculture degree

1 student → Registered Youth Apprenticeship through Dirks Heavy Contractors → full-time heavy equipment operator

1 student → Missouri S&T (Aerospace Engineering)

2 students → Cottey College (Education/Early Childhood and student who has signed with on with Competitive Cheer)

1 student → Z Hair Academy (Cosmetology)

1 student → Missouri Southern (55 college credits, Social Work + Political Science)

1 student → On-the-job training through Missouri Job Center

Every senior has created a path that fits their goals—proving success looks different for everyone.

As part of our Step into Your Future initiative, 8 seniors received career-connected shoes, symbolizing their next steps with confidence and purpose.

Huge thank you to the Missouri Department of Higher Education & Workforce Development and rootEd Alliance for investing in our students and expanding opportunities in rural communities.

Through rootEd, Hume students experienced:

- 1:1 advising

- FAFSA Frenzy & Apply Missouri

- Hornet Tank

- Reality Day (200 students!)

- Job shadows, college visits, and industry tours

- Guest speakers and hands-on career exploration

Class of 2026, we are so proud of you! Your future is bright, and we can’t wait to see the difference you make.

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City of Archie Officially Receives Missouri Blue Shield Designation

Archie, MO – Today, the City of Archie received official word from the Missouri Department of Public Safety that we have earned the Missouri Blue Shield designation for 2026. This honor recognizes Missouri communities that demonstrate their commitment to enhancing public safety, investing in and supporting law enforcement, and building partnerships between law enforcement and our community. The City of Archie was also recognized with a Blue Shield designation in 2025.

The Missouri Blue Shield Program was created by Governor Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25-03. In 2025, 201 Missouri communities earned the Blue Shield designation, recognizing local governments’ significant efforts to reduce crime and foster law enforcement–community partnerships to strengthen public safety. The opportunity to earn the Blue Shield designation for 2026 opened on February 4, 2026. Communities that earned the Blue Shield designation in 2025 had to reapply this year to be approved once again.

“The Blue Shield program has shown what’s possible when communities commit to prioritizing law enforcement and public safety,” Governor Kehoe said. “After awarding $50,000 grants to more than 200 communities last year, we’re continuing that work by welcoming new communities and renewing Blue Shield designations for counties, towns, and cities that remain committed to the program.”

“Strengthening public safety and committing to joint law enforcement community – citizen safety efforts is what the Blue Shield Program is all about, and the Department of Public Safety is honored to work with communities like The City of Archie, that have answered the Blue Shield challenge,” said Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS). “Last year, the essential equipment provided by Blue Shield grants included 388 mobile data terminals, 351 body cameras, 151 license plate readers (LPR), 102 ballistic vests, 91 interoperable radios, and 56 vehicles. We look forward to getting additional important equipment and training to our partners in local law enforcement.”

“This designation is a significant honor.” Said Mayor Anthony Sallee.

“Being part of the Missouri Blue Shield program is a reflection of the City’s continued commitment to strong public safety initiatives, proactive policing, and meaningful partnerships with the community.”

“The Archie Police Department is grateful to be selected once again for the Missouri Blue Shield Grant Funding,” said Police Chief Trevor Zaharsky. “We are honored to receive this designation from Governor Kehoe. We will utilize the opportunities provided by Blue Shield to build on our existing foundations for public safety, which include training, equipment, and community relationships.”

Eligibility and Program Details

Communities are eligible for a Missouri Blue Shield designation based on their dedication to reducing crime, making substantial investments in public safety, and developing strong collaboration with law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders. Each participating community’s commitment is reviewed annually to ensure continued alignment with the program’s goals.

Participation Incentives

Communities that earn a Missouri Blue Shield designation will receive grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment as part of Governor Kehoe’s Recommended Budget for the State Fiscal Year 2027, provided the General Assembly approves the funding. The Governor’s FY 2027 budget appropriated $10 million to the program for equipment and training grants. Communities will also be featured on Governor Kehoe’s social media pages as well as the DPS website to highlight their participation in the program. A map of 2025 Blue Shield communities is available here.

About the City of Archie

The City of Archie earned a Missouri Blue Shield designation because of its exceptional commitment to public safety. through officer recruitment efforts, major law enforcement funding, partnerships with community stakeholders, law enforcement partners, and community policing initiatives, all to reduce crime. The community has demonstrated a strong and ongoing commitment to protecting its residents. This designation affirms the City of Archie’s effort to create a safer, more secure environment for all who live and work here.

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