Stories from Thursday, September 3, 2020

While taking your next drive down I-49, something may catch your eye — rows of hemp plants situated just off the highway, a few miles north of Sheldon. The roughly 11 acres of industrialized hemp crop is the creation of 2007 Sheldon High School alum Cody Claflin and his business partner, Washington, Missouri native Chris Beerman. Also playing an integral role in the business-operation, branded "Farmhouse Extracts," are Claflin and Beerman's wives, Taylor and Stephanie respectively...

Walter Joe (W.J.) Steward, 82, of Nevada, Mo., passed away on Sept. 2, 2020, at his home. W. J. was born in southeast Vernon County, Mo., on April 23, 1938, to Walter Lavere and Mary Josephine (Bradin) Steward. W. J. and Avril Ann Levi were united in marriage on Aug. 7, 1965, in Stockton, Mo...

William Edward Wehmeyer, 67, Sheldon, Mo., died on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2020, at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin. Bill was born Feb. 7, 1953, in Nevada, Mo., to Samuel and Betty E. (Garfield) Wehmeyer. No services are planned. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may contribute to the family in care of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada, Mo...