Double K Country

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. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the American Legion Auxiliary about the upcoming National Poppy Day fundraiser. The guest is the Auxiliary's Lisa Miller. She details the background history of the poppy and its significance for Memorial Day. She then explains the fundraiser that will sell poppy flowers and wristbands in exchange for donations. Lastly, she highlights the use for the funding and additional projects the American Legion will be completing. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Nevada Police Department about the recognition of Police Week and the replacement of multiple police vehicles. The guest is Nevada Police Captain Josh Westerhold. He discusses what Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day recognizes. He also details the five new police vehicles the department will purchase and how they will be outfitted. Lastly, he explains the 2026 year so far including call volume, common problems and how citizens can assist with law enforcement. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from Cottey College about the upcoming Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 16th at 10 a.m. The guest is Dr. Stephanie Niles, President of Cottey College in Nevada. She discusses the 142nd Commencement and the events that lead up to the big day, including the Blue and Yellow Dinner and Capping Ceremony. She also highlights some of the awards and honors given out prior to the graduation day. Lastly, she talks about the graduating class and how Cottey will continue to support them in their next phase of life. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Hunter L. Mason Foundation about the upcoming 5th Annual Mason's Masters on June 6th. The guest is Golf Tournament Chair Erin Ketterman. She discusses how to register for the tournament and the pricing for the event. She also highlights some of the games and prizes that can be won throughout the day. Lastly, she talks about how individuals can donate and support the cause. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Nevada Scholar Bowl program about the conclusion of their season. The guest is NHS Scholar Bowl coach Bryan Townsend. He recaps the regular season and the improvements from last year. He also details the postseason results, including a Big 8 title, District title and State Quarterfinal appearance. Lastly, he highlights the success of Asher Mosher and his results from the Individual Players National Championship Tournament in Chicago. 

Thomas English speaks with a pair of guests with Weber Elementary School about enrollment for kindergarten and their upcoming summer school sessions. The guests are Weber Elementary School Principal Ashley Wolfe and Assistant Principal Jeni Hearting. They discuss how to enroll for kindergarten and the link to use. They also highlight the various aspects of the summer school session. Lastly, they explain how to apply for summer school, the deadline and the biggest benefits of the summer session. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Nevada Parks and Recreation Department about two major projects occurring soon in the City of Nevada. The guest is Parks and Rec director Richard Brockman. He discusses the passing of special ordinance for the Walton Aquatic Center and construction beginning soon. He also details the approval of a new playground at Marmaduke Park arriving this summer. Lastly, he highlights some of the recent improvements made at Marmaduke Park, including a new slide and larger grills. 

Thomas English talks with two guests from the Barton County Chamber of Commerce about the upcoming Truman Day event. The guests are Barton County Chamber of Commerce Director Kim O'Sullivan and Tourism Director Kristy Robertson. They discuss a meet-and-greet event with Harry Truman's grandson Clifton Daniel with fireworks to follow. They also highlight the various events occurring on Truman Day, including the Little Miss and Mr. Truman show and the Patriotic Parade. lastly, they talk about some of the food and craft vendors that attendees will have access to. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the City of Fort Scott about the recent designation they received as a Certified Local Government. The guest is Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator Lisa Dillon. She discusses what a CLG is and how it can be used by the City of Fort Scott. She addresses how businesses and owners are affected by the CLG and how they can apply for a Certificate of Appropriateness if needed. Lastly, she talks about the effects of the CLG and how it will positively impact the future of the city. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from New Growth Missouri about the child care services they provide and are looking to expand. The guest is New Growth outreach and development director Patty Cantrell. She explains two of their programs, Child Care Works and the Family Child Care Champions program. She highlights the different ways New Growth supports child care families as well as child care providers. Lastly, she discusses a pair of events that raised awareness and showed support for child care improvements. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from Nevada Main Street about the Façade Grant Program in the Main Street District. The guest is Main Street economic vitality chair Mark Hedges. He explains the reasoning for providing the grant and what it intends to accomplish. He then highlights the specific types of projects that are able to be completed with this grant. Lastly, he explains where to find the application and what information is needed to apply. 

Thomas English talks with Nevada Mayor Carol Branham about the recent happenings in the City of Nevada. She discusses the reorganization of the City Council including being named mayor for a second term. She details what new Council members Amber Barker and Sim Miller can provide for the decision-making of the city. She also explains the resignation of City Manager Gary Edwards, the appointment of interim city manager Mary Wilson and emphasizes how this doesn't alter the timeline of major projects. Lastly, she shares the goals and priorities of the new City Council. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Cottey College Athletics Department about the upcoming 4th Annual Swing for the Green Golf Tournament. The guest is Cottey College athletic director Dr. Maryann Mitts. She highlights the format of the tournament and how to register. She also talks about the side games and special events happening throughout the day. Lastly, she discusses how the funds are used to support the athletics programs. 

Thomas English visits with Vernon County presiding commissioner Joe Wilson about the upcoming Vernon County spring clean-up day scheduled for Saturday, April 18th. They discuss what can and cannot be brought to the event for disposal. Also, they talk about the FEMA funding discussions ongoing and how much the townships and county are expecting. lastly, they highlight the work being done by the Vernon County Commission in 2026. 

Thomas English talks with a pair of guests about the upcoming Art on Main Street event, powered by the Main Street Alliance. The guests are owner of the 4G Boutique and Consignment Kelsey Greer and owner of Belle's Design and Graphics Beth Stewart. They discuss how the idea of the event formed and how the preparation is going. They also highlight the various features of the event including the Art Passport. Lastly, they emphasizing wanting to grow the event and detail the main goals for student benefits.

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Vernon County Courthouse about the upcoming April 7th General Municipal Election. The guest is Vernon County Clerk Adrienne Lee. She discusses what voters can expect on Election Day and how to best be prepared. She also details the various issues and choices on the ballot for each municipality. Lastly, she emphasizes the importance of exercising the right to vote, especially at the local level. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Nevada City Council about the recent happenings and issues in the city of Nevada. The guest is Nevada mayor Carol Branham. She discusses the recent City Council work session that addressed the sewer rates. She also details the takeaways from the first reports of the Comprehensive Plan. Lastly, she reflects on the previous year with the Council with Election Day right around the corner. 

The NRMC Hospital District proposal on the April 7th, 2026 ballot has drawn a lot of response both in favor and those opposed.  Nevada resident Mike Jones, who's been out front on his opinions and ideas, was on the program to talk about his reasons for opposing the plan in its current form.  The program originally aired on Wednesday, April 1st, 2026 on 97.5 FM, KNMO.

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce about the upcoming Annual Community Awards Banquet. The guest is Chamber executive director Jessica Sloniker. She discusses the nominations for the awards and the voting process. She also highlights the different features of the event and theme. Lastly, she highlights new businesses that have opened and the preparation for Bushwhacker Days in June. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from Curtis and Sons about their upcoming Easter egg hunt in April. The guest is Curtis and Sons agent Christy Garrett. She explains how the idea of the egg hunt came about and how they prepared. She also details the structure of the event and the amount of eggs involved. Lastly, she highlights the other activities going on during and after the egg hunt. 

Thomas English talks with two guests from the Vernon County Youth Fair Board about the upcoming Fish Fry fundraiser. The guests are VCYF Board member Jenny Gayman and Board president Nathan Forkner. They discuss the upcoming fish fry and how the funds are used. They also highlight some of the recent improvements made to the Fairgrounds. Lastly, the detail the preparation for the Youth Fair in July and what changes attendees can expect. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Cedar County Memorial Hospital about the future priorities and goals of the hospital. The guest is newly appointed CEO Don Carpenter. He discusses why he took the role of CEO at CCMH and his leadership approach. He also highlights his three main priorities for the next 12 months as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the hospital. Lastly, he explains the importance of the relationship with the community and how he hopes to strengthen that bond. 

Thomas English talks with Nevada Fire Chief Taylor McKlintic about the recent happenings in the city of Nevada. We discuss the importance of checking your smoke detector and changing its batteries. Chief McKlintic also reflects on the one-year anniversary of the April tornado coming up soon. He then explains how open burning regulations will be enforced once passed through City Council. Lastly, he details the fire department looking to hire new firefighters and how to apply. 

Thomas English talks with three guests from the Nevada High School Renaissance Program about the upcoming 2026 Male Handsome Pageant. The guests are sponsor Michelle Branham, member and contestant Ethan Copsey and member Justin Whitlock. They discuss the background of the pageant and how it fundraises for the renaissance program. They also explain the format of the competition including the rounds, attire and number of contestants. Lastly, they detail the community support they have received. 

Thomas English sits down with a guest from the Osage Prairie YMCA to discuss the annual flag football program, Easter egg hunt and summer camp. The guest is Associate Executive Director Sammie McCullough. She talks about the flag football program, its benefits and how to register. She also discusses the Easter egg hunt and the new addition of the breakfast with the Easter Bunny. Lastly, she highlights the registration for the summer camp and spring break camps at the YMCA. 

Nevada (MO) Tiger boys basketball coach Shaun Gray joins Mike Harbit to talk about their Class 4 District 12 Championship and play in the MSHSAA State Tournament that includes a Sectional win over Forsyth and an upcoming Quarterfinal game against Logan-Rogersville.

Nevada (MO) Lady Tiger head basketball coach Blake Howarth joins Mike Harbit to discuss the Class 4 District 12 Championship and play in the MSHSAA State Tournament that includes an upcoming Quarterfinal contest against Strafford.

Nevada (MO) High School wrestling coaches Spenser Daniels (Boys) and Jerrod Alexander (Girls) visit with Thomas English about their recently completed seasons that included action at the Missouri State Wrestling High School Wrestling Championships that included an individual state champion.

Thomas English talks with two guests involved with the Hospital District issue on the April ballot. The guests are Vernon County Cares Volunteer Greg Hoffman and NRMC Board of Directors Aimee Meyer. They discuss factual information that voters need to know for the Hospital District. They highlight topics such as how it affects taxes, the timeline of putting a hypothetical Hospital District in place and how it affects the community. Other discussion includes where informational resources can be found. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from On My Own about the upcoming Vernon County Resource Share and Easter events. The guest is OMO Marketing and Community Relations director Kalli Gober. She discusses the networking event and what to expect. She also highlights the benefits of attending and how you can use the resources for growth. Lastly, she talks about the upcoming Easter Extravaganza that will be in March.  

Thomas English talks with a guest from the City of Nevada to discuss the recent happenings and issues in the area. The guest is Nevada City Manager Gary Edwards. He discusses updates to the aquatic center and animal shelter as well as the project of new housing arriving in Nevada. He discusses the City's and county's trip to meet with area legislators in recent weeks. Lastly, he highlights the upcoming economic development town hall and how important the feedback is. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the American Red Cross Southern Missouri Chapter about the upcoming community meet-and-greet and Red Cross Month. The guest is executive director Lee Eastburn. She discusses how the Red Cross provided support during the April tornadoes. She also highlights some of the partnerships critical to the work of the Red Cross. Lastly, she details the two events for Tuesday evening as well as the recognition of March as Red Cross Month. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from Build Vernon County about the upcoming town hall meeting being held in March. The guest is Economic Development Director Tina Joy Cochran. She discusses what Build Vernon County is and how the town hall meeting will be formatted. She also highlights the questions they want answered and the voices they would like to hear from. Lastly, she details the importance of getting the feedback and how it will shape the future of economic development in Vernon County. 

Nevada (MO) Lady Tiger basketball coach Blake Howarth sits down with Mike Harbit.  Topics include a matchup on Thursday, February 26th with McDonald County that will decide the Big 8 championship.  They also preview the Class 4 District 12 Tournament with the Lady Tigers being the #1 seed.

Nevada (MO) Tiger basketball coach Shaun Gray talks with Mike Harbit about the conclusion of the regular season that included the winning of an undefeated Big 8 Conference championship.  They will also preview the Class 4 District 12 Tournament with Nevada holding the #1 seed.

Nevada (MO) High School Athletic Director David Hawks joins Mike Harbit.  They discuss the success of the winter sports season.  They also talk about the upcoming Class 4 District 12 girls and boys basketball tournaments that will be hosted by Nevada.

Thomas English talks with a guest from the Vernon County offices about the upcoming Primary Election filing periods. The guest is Vernon County Clerk Adrienne Lee. She discusses the process for candidate filing as well as the offices available. She also highlights some of the recent topics that will be on the ballot for the upcoming general municipal elections in April. Lastly, she emphasizes the need for voters to get registered and to vote in their local elections. 

Thomas English talks with a guest from the National Federation of the Blind about the ABLE Act and financial accounts that can be used. The guest is Vernon County resident and member of the National Federation of the Blind Dan Keller. He explains what the ABLE Act is and how the ABLE accounts were created. He details different expenses the account funds can be used for. He also highlights the importance of the accounts and how they benefit the disabled community. 

Mike Harbit talks with Nevada (MO) Tiger basketball coach Shaun Gray about recent action as well as upcoming Big 8 games at Cassville and at home against McDonald County.

Nevada Lady Tiger basketball coach Blake Howarth sits down with Mike Harbit to talk about recent action and their upcoming contest at Cassville that has Big 8 Conference and Class 4 District 12 implications.

Nevada Tiger boys wrestling coach, Spenser Daniels, visits with Thomas English about the end of the regular season and previews the upcoming Class 2 District Tournament at Buffalo.