Double K Country

Mike Harbit is joined by Nevada (MO) High School head football coach Wes Beachler to discuss the 32-26 win over Monett .  They'll also talk about the adjustments that had to made after the Aurora forfeit and take an early look at Seneca who they'll host on September 25th.  Also on the program is Cross Country coach Ryan Watts.  He'll discuss the season and preview the Southern Stampede that's hosted by Missouri Southern State University in Joplin, MO.The program originally aired on Wednesday, September 16th on Sunny 99.9 FM/AM 1240 in Nevada, MO.

Thomas English sits down with a guest from Nevada Animal Control to discuss the stray cat issue in the community and a proposed ordinance to regulate the problem. The guest is Animal Control Officer Ben Douglas. He explains the factors leading to the problem of overpopulation of stray cats. He details how the ordinance would regulate the feeding and care management of the cats in the city. Lastly, he shares the process for the Trap-Neuter-Return program and how the city could take advantage of its benefits. 

Thomas English speaks with a guest from the Walker Community Betterment Association about the upcoming Walker Fun Days celebration. The guest is Walker Community Betterment Association Fun Days Committee member Crystal Burch. She explains the growth of the celebration throughout the years. She also details the schedule of events for the two days of activities. Lastly, she provides information on parking and things attendees should know ahead of arriving at the event. 

Thomas English visits with a guest from the Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce about the upcoming Oktoberfest Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 10. The guest is Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jessica Sloniker. She explains how the events joined last year to create one annual tradition. She also details sponsorship information as well as business opportunities through food vendors, craft booths and activity booths. Lastly, she highlights the featured events including the chili cook-off, cornhole tournament, live entertainment and more. 

Nevada (MO) Tiger head football coach Wes Beachler stops in for his weekly visit with Mike Harbit talking about their 2-0 start and previewing the home opener Friday night against the Monett Cubs.Also on the program as boys swimming coach Clay Wheeler to detail the start of their season and to preview the Nevada Invitational they're hosting on Thursday, September 10th.This program originally aired on Wednesday, September 9th on Sunny 99.9 FM

Nevada Regional Medical Center Interim CEO Jason McCormick is on the program to give an update on recent news at the Nevada, MO city hospital.  McCormick and Mike Harbit discuss what he learned after the failed vote for the proposed "hospital district" and what could be done going forward.  They also talk about new doctors, finances and other topics.The "Pride Report" airs live every other Wednesday morning at 8:05 a.m. CT on 97.5 FM, Double K Country in Nevada, MO.

Thomas English speaks with a guest from Schell City about the upcoming 155th Annual Fall Festival. The guest is Schell City Community Betterment President Heather Haddix. She details the importance of the event and the traditions that bring the community together. She then highlights various events on both days of the festival. Lastly, she provides information on how to get involved throughout the celebration. 

This week's Nevada "Tiger Talk" program that aired originally on Wednesday, September 2nd on Sunny 99.9 FM, features the weekly conversation between Mike Harbit and Nevada (MO) Tiger head football coach, Wes Beachler.  They review the 24-20 win over Mt. Vernon and preview the upcoming contest at Carl Junction.Also on the program is the post-match interview conducted by Thomas English with Lady Tiger volleyball coach Morgan Sanderson conducted on Tuesday, September 1st following their season opening match against Pleasant Hill.

Thomas English speaks with a guest from the City of Nevada government about the budgeting process for the Fiscal Year 2027. The guest is Nevada City Treasurer Bill Denman. he explains how the process works and the timeline for its completion. He also details the work session that was held in August and how that provides an opportunity for department heads to voice their needs. Lastly, he provides an update on the current status of the city's financials. 

Thomas English speaks with a guest from Uniontown, KS about the upcoming 121st Annual Old Settlers Picnic. The guest is organizer Mike Ramsey. He details the history of the event and the personal tie he has to it. He also highlights the various events on the schedule for the four-day celebration. He explains where to find more information for the event and who to contact. Lastly, he discusses the theme of the celebration and what attendees can expect for parking. 

Thomas English speaks with a guest from the Nevada R-5 District about the new school year getting underway. The guest is Nevada R-5 Superintendent Dr. Tyson Beshore. He discusses students returning to the classrooms and the priorities the Central Office has while the year ramps up. He also highlights various summer projects that have been completed or are nearing completion, including the new track surface. Laslty, he details the latest updates surrounding district funding, the second year of the cell phone ban and the kick off of the fall sports season. 

In the first program of the new sports season, the "Voice of the Tigers" Mike Harbit is joined by Nevada head football coach Wes Beachler for the first of his weekly visits.  The talk about preseason preparation and preview the season opener at Mt. Vernon.Also on the program is NHS Athletic Director, David Hawks, to discuss the upcoming athletics season.

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Lamar Free Fair about the upcoming 83rd annual event. The guest is Lamar Free Fair Secretary Becky Costley. She details the history of the event and its growth over time. She also runs through the schedule of events for the week-long event. She highlights various parking areas for attendees and explains the fair's popularity due to its no-cost initiative. Lastly, she shares who will be headlining the live entertainment for Saturday evening. 

Thomas English talks with a pair of guests about the upcoming 5th Annual Cottey Comet Day of Service on Tuesday, Aug. 24. The guests are Cottey student-athletes Sydney Stumpf and Karol Key. They discuss the servant leadership class that put them in charge of organizing the event. They also highlight the various projects that are planned and examples of past projects that were completed. Lastly, they share the importance of the event and expanding it to not just student-athletes, but the whole campus this year. 

Thomas English talks with Nevada Mayor Carol Branham about various issues in the City of Nevada. She explains the reasoning behind increasing the water and sewer rates in the city. She also highlights the levying of general and special taxes for the Fiscal Year 2026. Applications can now be submitted for the new City Manager and she provides an update on how the process works. She also details the upcoming strategic planning meeting for the Fiscal Year 2027 budget as well as topics that will be discussed at the upcoming Nevada City Council work session. 

Thomas English speaks with the new Superintendent of the El Dorado Springs District ahead of the start of classes. After the past 17 years in the Sheldon School District, Jason Irwin is set for his first year as Superintendent of El Dorado Springs. He discusses his transition to a new district and how he has approached the upcoming year. He also highlights various goals he has both for the first year and the future. Lastly, he shares a message with the families of the Sheldon and El Dorado Springs districts. 

Thomas English talks with two guests from the West Central Missouri Community Action Agency about the Housing Assistance Program. They are Amy Anderson, Chief Housing Assistance Program Officer, and Mendy Neider, Housing Assistance Program Director. They discuss the Housing Choice Voucher Program and the eligibility requirements. They explain how the waitlist works for the program and the materials needed to apply. They also detail two incentive programs available for residents, the Family Self-Sufficiency Program and Homeownership Program. Lastly, they highlight an upcoming community casino and fundraising event. 

Thomas English is joined by Jennifer Eaton and Interim CEO, Jason McCormick, from Nevada Regional Medical Center. They discuss the good that has come from conversations surrounding the Hospital District. They also detail the setbacks that have occurred since the end of the campaign. They provide an update on things to look forward to throughout the fall. 

Thomas English speaks with a guest from Cottey College about welcoming students back to campus and the upcoming fall semester. The guest is Cottey College President Dr. Stefanie Niles. She highlights the traditional ceremonies held for the incoming Class of 2030 and what they represent. She also details the new two-week term that begins Tuesday and its benefits. Lastly, she provides an update on the various construction projects occurring on campus. 

Thomas English speaks with a guest about the upcoming 122nd Annual Old Settlers' Picnic Aug. 13-15. The guest is Old Settlers' Picnic President Perry Fowler. he details the background of the event and how it has grown over time. He also highlights several events on each day of the three-day celebration. Lastly, he provides some helpful information on parking and what to expect when arriving to the events. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Nevada R-5 District about the upcoming 3rd Annual Back To School Supply and Hygiene Drive. The guest is Nevada R-5 School Resource Officer Ashley Fast. She discusses what items can be donated and how to order items online. She also highlights a new partnership with Vern's Bar & Grill to provide free haircuts for students. Lastly, she explains the importance of the drive and how it impacts the community. 

Thomas English speaks with a pair of guests from Bridge 2 Bed about their nonprofit organization that aims to assist individuals seeking recovery resources. The guests are Bridge 2 Bed Founders Cody Hendrix and Thomas Short. They discuss the reason behind creating the organization and the importance in the area. They also detail how the website works and what individuals can expect during the process. Lastly, they highlight future goals of the nonprofit and how they aim to improve recovery resources in the area. 

Thomas English speaks with a guest from the Vernon County Courthouse about the upcoming Primary Election on Tuesday, August 4th. the guest is Vernon County Clerk Adrienne Lee. She discusses the types of ballots that can be obtained and the four Missouri amendments that will be on every ballot. She also details what voters are required to bring to vote and what they can expect at their polling locations. Lastly, she explains the importance of voting in elections and how it impacts the future at multiple levels. 

Mike Harbit is joined by Jennifer Eaton and Family Nurse Practitioner, Chelsay Langford, from Nevada Regional Medical Center.  They discuss the advances in Orthopedic Services.  Those services are being expanded in the near future with the addition of additional doctors.  They discuss those additions and what that means for patients. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce about their upcoming annual golf tournament. The guest is Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jessica Sloniker. She details the format of the tournament and how teams can register. She also highlights some additional options golfers will have for purchase during the even. Lastly, she explains how local businesses can sponsor the tournament at different levels. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Hume Fair and Rodeo about their 83rd annual event. The guest is Hume Fair and Rodeo Secretary Karen Irwin. She details the background history of the event and how it has grown over time. She then highlights events on each day of the six-day fair. Lastly, she provides information on how to get involved or find more information for the fair. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Nevada Police Department about their upcoming National Night Out event. The guest is Nevada Police Department Lieutenant Amber Williamson. She discusses the background and goals for the nationally recognized event. She also highlights several features of the night including free food, games and water activities. Lastly, she details the importance of the event both for the community and for public safety personnel. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the El Dorado Springs Picnic Committee about their upcoming 145th annual event. The guest is Picnic Committee Member Kamber Cain. She provides some background information on what the picnic does for the community. She also details each day of the three-day event and highlights the live entertainment. Lastly, she details parking information and explains how to find more information on each event as well as the full schedule. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the West Central Missouri Community Action Agency about their upcoming Advocacy Day event. The guest is WCMCAA Chief Development and Brand Officer Jana Witt. She discusses the goals of the event and how it aims to support the services of both WCMCAA and New Growth. She also highlights some of the speakers and departments in attendance. lastly, she explains how to RSVP and find more information ahead of the event. 

Mike Harbit visits with Nevada Regional Medical Center Sleep Technician, Dawn Mitchell.  She discusses EEG (Electroencephalogram) tests with a description as to what they are used for and what common neurological symptoms warrant one.  Mitchell talks about the procedure and what patients should expect.  

Thomas English talks with a guest from Build Vernon County about the recent meetings for economic development. The guest is Vernon County Economic Development Director Tina Cochran. She discusses the recent happenings with the economic development including a presentation at the City Council meeting. She details how the Center on Rural Innovation is assisting with the county's growth and knowledge. She also provides an outlook on what has been completed in the past year and what can be expected in the future. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from On My Own about their upcoming ADA Festival Community Challenge. The guest is On My Own Marketing and Community Relations Director Kalli Gober. She discusses the reason behind the event and the celebration of the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. She highlights the various activities and education opportunities available during the event. Lastly, she details the tasks associated with the relay race. 

Thomas English talks with two guests about the upcoming Summer Nights on the Square event on Saturday, July 18th. The guests are Nevada Parks and Recreation Director Richard Brockman and Event Coordinator Molly Lewis. They discuss how the idea came to fruition and the process of planning the evening. They also detail the special guest that will make an appearance and how the "Grease" community supported the event. Lastly, they highlight the features of the event including a cruise-in, "Grease" outdoor movie showing and giveaway opportunities. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from Vernon County Government about the recent FEMA visit and ongoing projects. The guest is Vernon County Presiding Commissioner Joe Wilson. He discusses the recent FEMA assessment survey and how it could lead to funding for the county. he also highlights the process of working with FEMA and receiving potential funding. Lastly, he details the Vernon County Youth Fair and encourages residents to attend the week-long event. 

Thomas English talks with two guests from the Compass Health Network about the importance of mental health and the 988 helpline. The guests are Director of Outpatient Services Dr. John Dandurand and Director of CPRC Janice Hendrix. They explain what the 988 line is and how it can be used. They also discuss ways to identify if an individual may need additional assistance and how to approach those situations. Lastly, they highlight the importance of this service and creating awareness about mental health and 988. 

Discussion centered on Sleep Apnea and the services offered by Nevada Regional Medical Center for diagnosis and remedies with Andrea Miller, RRT, NRMC's Respiratory Therapy and Sleep Lab Manager.

Thomas English talks with two guests from the Vernon County Youth Fair about the upcoming 81st Annual Youth Fair at the Vernon County Fairgrounds. The guests are Youth Fair Board President Nathan Forkner and Member Jenny Gayman. They discuss the history of the event and how it impacts the local youth. They then break down each day of the week-long event and what to expect. lastly, they provide some rules and recommendations to follow before arriving at the Fairgrounds. 

Thomas English speaks with a guest from the Nevada/Vernon County Fireworks and Freedom Committee about the upcoming "Ignite the Night" Celebration. The guest is Nevada/Vernon County Fireworks and Freedom Committee Coordinator Traci Cliffman. She discusses how the idea came to fruition after a long period of planning. She also highlights various features of the event including the hot dog eating contest and live music. Lastly, she explains the need for an event in Vernon County and how it aims to become an annual tradition. 

Thomas English talks with a pair of guests from the City of Nevada about the recent City Council work session. The guests are Nevada Mayor Carol Branham and Finance Director Michael Fields. They discuss the new financing of the Walton Aquatic Center project. They also detail the increase in water and sewer rates that residents can expect. Lastly, they highlight other agenda items such as stray cats, radio financing and live streaming of the meetings.

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Rich Hill 4th of July Committee about their upcoming 145th Rich Hill 4th of July celebration. The guest is 4th of July Committee President Natalea Platt. She explains the history of the celebration and how the City of Rich Hill became famous for the holiday. She then details various events occurring throughout the week leading up to the 4th of July on Saturday. Lastly, she highlights some important reminders for those attending and encourages everyone to come out. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the City of Fort Scott about their upcoming Independence Day celebration on June 27th. The guest is Director of Human Resources and Community Development Rachel Carpenter. She details the background of the event and the planning process. She then highlights various events occurring throughout the day including free concerts and fireworks. Lastly, she shares how the community comes together for the event and how to sign up for each event.

Thomas English talks with a guest from the NRTC Construction Technology Program about the upcoming open house. The guest is NRTC Construction Technology Instructor Andy Williams. He discusses the skills that the program teaches the students. He also details features of the house and the process in which it is built. Lastly, he highlights the open house and how it serves as an opportunity to see the residence and also talk with students who assisted in building the home. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the West Central Missouri Community Action Agency about their Housing Enrichment Programs. The guest is Home Enrichment Director Laurie Kedigh. She discusses the Home Repair Opportunity Program (HeRO) and the Weatherization Assistance Program. She explains the eligibility requirements and the application process. Lastly, she highlights the biggest benefits of each program and how residents can find more information.

Thomas English talks with Nevada Fire Chief Taylor McKlintic about the recent happenings in the city of Nevada. We discuss the purchase of a new engine and tanker for the department's fleet and the timing of it. We also detail some summer events the fire department is involved in as well as previewing an open house in the near future. Lastly, we discuss how to handle the high temperatures as well as Bushwhacker Days this weekend.  

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Osage Prairie YMCA about their new Early Learning Center and summer programs. The guest is YMCA  Associate Executive Director Sammie McCullough. She discusses the opening of the Early Learning Center in the near future and what services it will provide. She explains how community members can donate and support the new addition. Lastly, she highlights various summer programs for the YMCA including, summer camps, volleyball instruction, grocery grabs and new MLB Pitch, Hit and Run. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce about the upcoming 62nd Annual Bushwhacker Days Festival. The guest is Executive Director Jessica Sloniker. She details the history of Bushwhacker Days and its growth to a longstanding traditions. She discusses the opening ceremonies and events happening on Thursday. She also highlights various contests and shows happening throughout the weekend and reveals the musical performances on the Square. Lastly, she provides information on parking, how to register for events and the Bushwhacker Days Parade. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from The Fort Scott Good Ol' Days Festival about the upcoming 45th Annual event. The guest is Festival co-chairman Shawn O'Brien. He details the origins of the festival and how it has grown over time. He also highlights the jam-packed schedule for both Friday, June 5th and Saturday, June 6th. Lastly, he explains specific events such as the parade and street dances, how to get involved, and find more information including the full schedule of events. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Missouri State Legislature about the conclusion of the legislative session. The guest is Missouri State Representative for District 125 Dane Diehl. He discusses the key bills that were passed and directly affect the surrounding area. He also highlights a few bills that failed to reach the Governor's desk. Lastly, he details the topics that had the most discussion and how they will build on those conversations in future sessions. 

Thomas English talks with two guests from the City of Nevada about an upcoming public hearing. The guests are Nevada Mayor Carol Branham and Interim City Manager Mary Wilson. They discuss a public hearing scheduled for June 16th about the use of shipping containers within city limits. They explain how to participate and submit written comments. The two also discuss the seamless transition between city managers and the hiring process. Lastly, they highlight how Wilson has impacted the current projects and allowing them to move forward. 

Thomas English speaks with a guest from the Nevada R-5 School District about their busy upcoming summer break. The guest is Nevada R-5 Superintendent Dr. Tyson Beshore. he highlights several projects the district already has planned including the renovation of the track. He also discusses potential state funding cuts and how the district is preparing the budget for the upcoming year. Lastly, he details issues with school staffing and needing to hire additional teachers and coaches. 

Thomas English talks with two guests from the Bushwhacker Days Royalty Contest about the upcoming pageant for 2026 and how to get involved. The guests are Royalty Contest Coordinator Jenise Burch and Reigning Queen Taylor Charles. They discuss the history of the pageant and how it has grown in the past few years. They also highlight the age divisions, prizes and deadlines. Finally, they detail the events involved in the process and how the judging will be completed.