Newsletter Late Week

Aged to Perfection: Adam Puchta Winery's Dry Vignoles Wins Governor's Cup in 170th Anniversary Comeback
The Missouri wine industry is tipsy with excitement as Adam Puchta Winery, a cornerstone of Hermann's rich winemaking heritage, claimed the coveted 2025 Governor's Cup. Their 2024 Dry Vignoles was crowned the "best wine in Missouri," marking a triumphant return to the top for the venerable winery after a 25-year hiatus.

Recap of Freedomfest and New Employees join the City
The Hermann Board of Aldermen meeting commenced with Mayor Bruce Cox’s reflections on a successful Fourth of July and complemented the Chamber of Commerce for their organization of the event. The meeting began with a mention of the dedication ceremony to honor Officer Adam Sullentrup by naming the street in front of City Hall, Sullentrup Way.

Rock Island Trail Development Pushes Forward Amidst Funding Hurdles and Local Enthusiasm
Rosebud, MO: The transformation of the former Rock Island rail line into a public recreational trail is moving forward, fueled by a mix of state-level budget allocations, local initiatives, and the promise of a significant economic boon for the region. Despite initial funding setbacks, progress is being made on the trail, which was gifted to the state by Ameren UE in December 2021.

River Stories From The MR340
The MR340 is an annual endurance race down the Missouri River, starting in Kansas City and ending in St. Charles.

Hermann Community Dedicates Pavilion to Fallen Officer
In a heartfelt ceremony on Saturday, the Hermann community gathered to dedicate the riverfont pavilion in honor of Detective Sergeant Mason Griffith, who was killed in the line of duty on March 12, 2023. The event served as a tribute to Griffith's service and sacrifice, which Chief Marlon Walker described as a legacy of bravery that will be "forever etched in our hearts and our minds." The dedication for the 34-year-old officer included the unveiling of a bronze plaque bearing his image and the raising of a Blue Line police flag.

Hermann Economic Group Discusses Housing, Healthcare, and Future Funding
The Hermann Regional Economic Development (HRED) group convened for its monthly meeting, delving into a packed agenda that included the recent success of FreedomFest, the fiscal health of the local hospital, major city funding news, and a critical look at the organization's own future. The discussion highlighted a community actively pursuing growth while navigating the persistent challenges of limited resources and housing shortages.

From Hermann High to the High Seas: A Hermann Veteran's Naval Journey
Robert (Bob) Shelker, a local Hermann High graduate, who received his diploma around 1945, recently shared the story of a naval career that spanned the closing days of one war and the front lines of another. Shelker is the oldest surviving WW II veteran from the Hermann area and stopped in for a visit with his family at Veteran’s Memorial Park on Market St.

Hermann Ramps Up For 249th Independence Day
Freedomfest 2025 is a year short of the Semiquincentennial or better known as the 250th year of independence from the British Monarchy. The Hermann Chamber of Commerce is the organizer for Freedomfest and has put together an action-packed event this year and has also been putting together a list of ideas to expand on next year’s party.

Hermann Hospital Is Interviewed by NBC Concerning Possible Medicaid Cuts
An NBC news segment from the Hermann Hospital by reporter Julie Tsirkin spotlighted the potential consequences of proposed Medicaid cuts by Republican lawmakers aimed at funding President Trump's agenda. The proposed changes include new work requirements and limitations on a provider tax that states use to fund Medicaid, which could be particularly damaging to rural hospitals like the Hermann Area District Hospital.
Rhineland News
This heat is out of control! Our air has been running nonstop for days; I am so sure Ameren is happy about that. Children will be out and about now that summer school is over, please watch out for children on their bicycles and walking.