October 16, 2026
Lexington News
Missouri Court of Appeals upholds man’s child sex crime conviction
On May 26, 2026, the Missouri Court of Appeals issued a memorandum opinion affirming the conviction of Shane Smith, 56, of Mayview, Missouri.
Gregorio graduates from Graceland University
Graceland University has announced the Spring 2026 graduation list. Graduates from around the country and the world have been recognized for earning undergraduate and graduate degrees from Graceland University between December 2025 through April 2026.
Planning survey seeks input
The Lafayette County Planning & Economic Development Office has created a new webpage with information about the Land Development Code update process, planning priorities, and opportunities for community feedback.
Screenplay to be presented during Minnie Mae Day
News Editor Ever since she heard the story of Lexington’s Minnie Mae Talbott — who on June 8, 1919 was sworn in as the first elected female sheriff in U.S. history — filmmaker and screenwriter Jamie Hoyt has been inspired by her strength and courage.
Minnie lived in county jail
Living in the Lafayette County Jail with her children and the inmates was part of Minnie Talbott’s life, from 1917 to 1920, first as the sheriff’s wife, then as the first elected female sheriff in the nation.
Nap-Well Homemakers Club meets
Nap-Well Homemakers Club met April 21st, at the CCC in Wellington, hosted by Linda Geiger with fourteen members and one guest attending.
Life-casting program set
Probably not too many people are familiar with the art form of life-casting. Mid-Missouri Artists (MMA) member Reggie Ferguson will present the Thursday, May 28, program on this topic. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Warrensburg Community Center, Arts and Crafts room. All MMA programs are free and open to the public.
UCM Dean’s List
The following area students have earned a spot on the University of Central Missouri (UCM) Dean’s List for the Spring 2026 semester.
Check Your Tax Refund Status
In the 2026 tax filing season, the Missouri Department of Revenue has processed more than three million tax returns, issuing over 1.8 million refunds totaling more than one billion dollars. By statute, the department has 45 days from the date of mailing to process and issue the individual refund before interest is due. Currently, 93% of taxpayers file electronically, which significantly reduces refund turnaround time. Returns sent by mail can take up to six weeks to process, while electronically filed returns typically take about six days.