Newsletter Late Week
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.
Teamwork and Timeliness Propel Hermann Hospital to Audit Success
The Hermann Area District Hospital (HADH) received very positive results from its new auditing partners at the monthly Board meeting on Monday, June 23, 2025. The audit team from Forvis Mazars, Kansas City, MO, made only three adjustments to the 2024 Medicare Cost Report that is submitted annually to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
Timmy Palooza is celebration for Hermann High School 50 Year Reunion
Timmy Palooza was a celebration recently at the Adam Puchta Winery and also a 50 year class reunion of Hermann High School. Members of Tim Puchta's class gathered for their 50th reunion group photo with a blow-up photo of Tim to include him with his classmates.