Reliable, High-Speed Internet Expansion in Missouri Comcast is set to expand its high-speed internet services to three additional Missouri cities—Adrian, Archie, and Butler—bringing reliable, multi-gigabit connectivity to more than 4,200 homes and businesses. This initiative marks the first time these communities will have access to Xfinity’s converged network, which integrates internet, mobile, entertainment, and smart home services into a single platform. The project is expected to be completed by 2027, further solidifying Comcast’s presence in Missouri as part of its broader strategy to enhance digital infrastructure across the state. The expansion includes the introduction of Xfinity’s full suite of residential services, such as high-speed internet, streaming, mobile, voice, and home security. Xfinity Mobile will offer reliable, lightning-fast speeds up to 1 gigabit, with new customers receiving one free line for a full year when signing up for a qualifying internet plan. Xfinity TV will combine live TV, streaming, sports, and on-demand content into one platform, featuring an intuitive voice remote for easy navigation. Xfinity Home will provide smart security and automation solutions, offering flexible monitoring options for homeowners. State officials have praised the project for its potential to boost economic growth and digital access. State Senator Rick Brattin emphasized that broadband is now a necessity for economic development, workforce training, and community opportunity. State Representative Sherri Gallick highlighted how affordable, fast internet strengthens education, healthcare access, and long-term city vitality. State Representative Dane Diehl noted that improved connectivity supports local businesses and ensures communities like Butler remain competitive in a digital economy.#comcast #missouri #butler #adrian #archie
Powerball Jackpot Remains Unclaimed After April 20 Drawing The Powerball lottery drawing held on Monday, April 20, 2026, did not result in a jackpot winner, leaving the $87 million prize unclaimed. The winning numbers for the drawing were 9, 17, 36, 47, and 64, with the red Powerball number 26 and a Power Play multiplier of 3X. Despite the absence of a jackpot winner, there was one $1 million prize awarded to a ticket holder in Missouri who matched all five white balls but did not include the Powerball number. No Match 5 plus Power Play winner was reported, which would have secured a $2 million prize. The next Powerball drawing is scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, with the estimated jackpot rising to $100 million. The cash value of the jackpot for this upcoming drawing is $45.6 million. Powerball drawings occur at 11 p.m. ET every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday. The odds of winning the jackpot remain at 1 in 292.2 million, while other prize tiers range from $4 for matching only the Powerball number to $1 million for matching all five white balls. Powerball tickets cost $2 per play, with an additional $1 available for the Power Play option, which multiplies non-jackpot winnings. In Kentucky, Indiana, and some other states, players can also add the Double Play feature for an extra $1, offering a second chance at winning $10 million. Tickets are sold in 45 states, including Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, as well as Washington, D.C., and the Virgin Islands. Non-U.S. residents and citizens can also participate. Online ticket purchases are available in Kentucky through the state’s official lottery website and in Ohio and Indiana via Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Sales typically close one to two hours before the drawing time, which varies by jurisdiction.#indiana #powerball #jackpocket #kentucky #missouri
Mizzou Lands Kansas Transfer Forward Bryson Tiller Missouri head coach Dennis Gates has added a significant piece to his 2026 recruiting class with the commitment of forward Bryson Tiller, a highly touted transfer from Kansas. The 6-foot-10 prospect, ranked No. 34 in the transfer portal, has signed with the Tigers after a standout freshman season at Kansas, where he averaged 7.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. Tiller’s decision to join Missouri was influenced by his desire to contribute immediately and the strong rapport he developed with Gates, who has emphasized building a competitive program. Tiller, who graduated early from the Atlanta-based Overtime Elite program, faced challenges during his high school career due to injuries and a lengthy layoff. However, he rebounded with strong performances in his first season at Kansas, including a 21-point, seven-rebound outing against BYU and an 18-point, eight-rebound game against Arizona, a team that reached the Final Four. His ability to face the basket, stretch defenses with jump shooting, and serve as a versatile passer has positioned him as a potential replacement for departed All-SEC forward Mark Mitchell. In a statement to 247Sports, Tiller expressed his excitement about joining Missouri, stating, “I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity to play for Coach Gates and make an immediate, meaningful impact at Missouri. We’ve built a strong relationship over time, and that trust matters—especially knowing he’s intentionally building something serious and sees me as a central piece of it.” He added, “I’ve already proven that I can step into high-pressure moments and impact the game in multiple ways, and Coach Gates has made it clear he expects me to do exactly that.#kansas #missouri #bryson_tiller #dennis_gates #overtime_elite
Malone Adds Former Providence Head Coach Kim English to UNC's Staff Michael Malone has added former George Mason and Providence head coach Kim English to his staff at North Carolina, according to sources confirmed by TarHeel247. English, who will turn 38 in September, was recently let go by Providence after serving as its head coach for three seasons. With 11 years of coaching experience since his playing career ended in 2015, English brings a mix of collegiate and professional basketball expertise to the Tar Heels. A former two-time All-Big 12 player at Missouri, English transitioned to coaching in 2015 after his playing days concluded. He began his coaching career as an assistant at Tulsa, Colorado, and Tennessee, working under notable mentors such as Frank Haith, Tad Boyle, and Rick Barnes. His playing career included 41 games with the Detroit Pistons and several seasons overseas before retiring as a professional. English’s collegiate coaching journey began at Missouri, where he played for four seasons and became a key contributor. During his time with the Tigers, Missouri reached the NCAA Tournament in each of his four seasons, including a run to the Elite Eight in his freshman year. The team compiled a 107-34 record during his tenure, with English ranking 13th in program history in scoring. His career averages at Missouri were 11.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game, with a total of 1,570 points. In 2021, English was named head coach at George Mason, where he led the Patriots to a 34-29 record in two seasons. His first season as head coach included a notable victory, as the team secured its first true road win over a ranked team by defeating Maryland. The Patriots also participated in the NIT during his first year.#george_mason #providence #kim_english #missouri #michael_malone
Missouri, Kansas face Medicaid cuts affecting thousands Missouri and Kansas are preparing for significant Medicaid budget adjustments as new federal rules threaten to reduce coverage for hundreds of thousands of residents. The changes, set to take effect in 2027, include stricter work requirements and more frequent eligibility checks, which are expected to lead to a nationwide loss of Medicaid coverage for approximately 5.3 million people, according to estimates from the Kaiser Family Foundation. The federal policy shift is already placing financial strain on state budgets. Over the next decade, Medicaid budgets across the U.S. are projected to shrink by $664 billion due to cuts mandated by last year’s Republican-led budget law. This reduction comes amid rising medical costs and slower-than-expected tax collections, which have forced state lawmakers to confront difficult decisions about how to manage Medicaid spending. Medicaid typically accounts for about 30% of a state’s budget, creating pressure to either cut expenses or find new revenue sources. In Missouri, the impact is expected to be substantial. According to an analysis by the Missouri Budget Project, around 170,000 residents could lose Medicaid coverage after the new rules take effect. In Kansas, the number is smaller but still significant, with approximately 13,000 people projected to be affected, based on research from the REACH Healthcare Foundation. State lawmakers have already taken steps to address these challenges. In February, Missouri legislators approved $76.7 million in general revenue to fund Medicaid expansion, marking the first time state funds have been used to support the voter-approved program.#kansas #missouri #kaiser_family_foundation #missouri_budget_project #reach_healthcare_foundation
Missouri Hemp Restriction Bill Blocked (for Now) by Filibustering State Senator A state senator’s prolonged filibuster has temporarily halted the passage of Senate Bill 904, the Intoxicating Cannabinoid Control Act, which would reclassify hemp-derived intoxicating cannabinoid products as marijuana. The bill, sponsored by Sen. David Gregory (R-St. Louis), mirrors federal legislation set to take effect in November, which redefines hemp as cannabis containing less than 0.3 percent total THC rather than just delta-9 THC. This change would move most intoxicating hemp products into the marijuana category, requiring them to be sold exclusively at licensed marijuana retailers. Sen. Karla May (D-St. Louis) filibustered the bill on Tuesday, preventing a vote. She argued the measure would harm Missouri’s hemp industry by eliminating sales through CBD stores, health and wellness retailers, convenience stores, and other non-licensed outlets. May claimed the bill was a “stalking horse” for the state’s legal marijuana industry, which she alleged sought to monopolize the market for cannabis products. “I’m all for regulation,” May said, “but I’m not for eliminating an industry for the benefit of another industry, creating an unfair business advantage in law that they can capitalize off of.” Gregory defended the bill as a public safety measure, citing concerns about unregulated hemp products. “These products, we don’t know what’s in them,” he stated. “There’s been tests already begun where we’re finding things like paint thinner. We have no idea where they’re coming from.” He emphasized the need to prevent cannabis products from reaching minors and to align state law with federal standards.#missouri #senator_david_gregory #senator_karla_may #hemp_industry #intoxicating_cannabinoid_control_act
10 vs. 7 Upset Rankings: Saint Mary's Least Likely NCAA Tournament No. 7 Seed to Lose A No. 10 seed has defeated a No. 7 seed in every NCAA Tournament since 2005, but only two teams have advanced past the first round in the past eight years. This year’s No. 10 seeds—Missouri, Santa Clara, Texas A&M, and UCF—face the challenge of overcoming the odds to beat their higher-seeded opponents. The matchups between these teams and the No. 7 seeds will determine which upsets are most likely to occur. The rankings of potential upsets are based on statistical analysis and team performance. Saint Mary’s, the No. 7 seed, is considered the least likely to lose to a No. 10 seed, according to the rankings. The Gaels, ranked fourth in rebounding margin and 12th in height, have a strong defensive presence. Their slower tempo and efficient offense, which averages 120.4 points per 100 possessions, could neutralize the faster-paced attacks of teams like Texas A&M. Saint Mary’s also benefits from a favorable matchup against the Aggies, who rank 325th in fouls per game and struggle to contain opponents with strong free-throw shooting. Texas A&M, the No. 10 seed, faces a tough test against Saint Mary’s. The Aggies, despite a strong start to the season, have struggled in recent games, losing seven of their last 11. Their high-tempo style, which averages 87.7 points per game, may not be enough to overcome Saint Mary’s rebounding dominance and defensive efficiency. However, the Aggies’ depth and experience could provide a challenge, especially if they can force turnovers and capitalize on Saint Mary’s slower pace. Santa Clara, another No. 10 seed, is ranked second in the upset likelihood rankings against Kentucky. The Broncos, led by Christian Hammond, have a strong ability to force turnovers, which could disrupt Kentucky’s offensive rhythm.#kentucky #missouri #texas_am #saint_marys #santa_clara
Severe Storms and Tornado Threat Loom Across Midwest A severe weather warning has been issued for the region, with a high likelihood of damaging wind gusts and potential tornado activity. A Tornado Watch remains in effect for parts of Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee until 11 p.m. local time. Additionally, a Wind Advisory is active for the entire Heartland region, extending through midnight tonight and into Monday morning. The primary threat involves strong wind gusts, which could lead to widespread damage. Secondary concerns include the possibility of quick spin-up tornadoes forming along the storm's path. Meteorologists note that the available wind energy could allow for the development of powerful tornadoes, though these are expected to be brief in duration. The storm system is projected to move through the Ozark Counties between 3 and 5 p.m., then progress along the Mississippi River between 6 and 8 p.m. The system is anticipated to exit the area by 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. High temperatures are expected to reach the upper 60s and lower 70s during the day. After the storm passes, temperatures will drop significantly. Winter-like conditions are expected to return, with isolated showers potentially turning to light snow. Highs on Monday are forecast to settle in the mid-30s, while overnight lows could fall to the upper teens on Tuesday. Cloudy skies and moderate winds will persist through Tuesday. Residents are advised to stay updated with the First Alert Weather Team and the First Alert Weather app for real-time updates. The National Weather Service recommends preparing for severe weather by securing outdoor items, keeping emergency supplies accessible, and remaining indoors during the storm's peak activity.#illinois #tennessee #kentucky #missouri #midwest
A Bald Eagle with Leucism Captured in Missouri A bald eagle with leucism, a genetic condition that reduces pigmentation, was spotted in Missouri by wildlife photographer Nunn. The bird, which has pale brown and white feathers, was the subject of Nunn’s recent search. He shared his experience on Wednesday, February 17, detailing his efforts to capture images of the rare bird. Nunn described driving back to southwest Missouri specifically to locate the leucistic eagle, emphasizing the challenges of photographing it from a distance. “No guarantees. No shortcuts. Just patience,” he wrote, highlighting the difficulty of securing a clear shot. The bird’s unique appearance, unlike the complete lack of pigmentation seen in albinism, made it a rare sight. After spending eight hours observing the eagle as it flew between trees, Nunn finally captured a close-up image when the bird came within a couple hundred yards. “Finally, late in the day, she came within a couple hundred yards, which is the best opportunity I had gotten in my trips over there,” he noted. The successful encounter marked the culmination of his efforts to document the unusual bird. The post also included a credit line for the image, acknowledging the eagle’s striking appearance against the clear blue sky. While the focus was on the leucistic eagle, the text also listed other unrelated animal-related stories, such as the Chicago Aquarium’s achievement in raising a warty frogfish and updates on bald eagle nests in Florida and Wisconsin. However, these were likely part of the website’s content rather than the main article. Nunn’s account provided a detailed glimpse into the challenges of wildlife photography, particularly when dealing with rare and elusive species. His experience underscored the patience required to document such unique natural phenomena.#bald_eagle #nunn #missouri #leucism #wildlife_photography
Americans from Texas to Iowa face tornado threat Friday as spring storm season begins A growing concern is emerging as the first major storm system approaches the U.S. heartland, potentially bringing strong tornadoes to millions of people across Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and neighboring states. The National Weather Service warned that scattered severe thunderstorms are expected to develop late Thursday in the Texas Panhandle, western Oklahoma, and parts of Kansas. These storms could produce large hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes, according to forecasters. The most intense storms are anticipated to form on Friday, targeting Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, and nearby regions. Melissa Mayes, deputy director of the Washington County Emergency Management Agency in Oklahoma, noted that this event marks the beginning of the spring storm season, with people starting to take the threat more seriously. Over 6 million Americans are at the highest risk of severe weather on Friday, including major metropolitan areas like Kansas City, Tulsa, and Oklahoma City. An additional 22 million people in areas such as St. Louis, Omaha, and Milwaukee are at a slightly lower risk. Meteorologists explained that the storm system is driven by a clash between warm air moving north from the Gulf Coast and colder air from Canada, which is carried by cold fronts. This setup is also expected to bring unusually warm temperatures to parts of the eastern U.S. by the weekend. Federal forecasters predicted temperatures could be 20-30 degrees above average, with 80s Fahrenheit reaching as far north as the Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic regions. For example, Louisville, Kentucky, is forecast to hit 81 degrees Fahrenheit by Friday, while Atlanta could reach 82 degrees by Saturday. Washington, D.C.#oklahoma #texas #kansas #missouri #washington_county_emergency_management_agency
College Hoops: Bubble Teams in Panic Mode, Todd Golden vs. John Calipari and More With Selection Sunday fast approaching, teams on the NCAA Tournament bubble are scrambling to secure their spots. The final Saturday in February became a pivotal day for teams teetering on the edge of qualification, as every game carried significant weight. The margins for error have narrowed dramatically, and results from this weekend could determine whether some teams make it to the tournament while others are left out. Auburn stands out as the most vulnerable team in the bubble. The Tigers, who entered the season with one of the toughest schedules in the country, have struggled to translate their difficult slate into wins. A 85-79 loss to 12-17 Ole Miss at home dropped them to 15-14 overall, putting them in serious danger of missing the tournament after a Final Four appearance last year. Despite strong metrics like KenPom suggesting they should be in, their record has not been good enough to guarantee a bid. Auburn still has a chance to salvage their season with games against LSU and Alabama in the final week, but the window is closing rapidly. The weekend’s action saw several teams solidify their tournament chances. Missouri, after defeating Mississippi State 88-64 on the road, is now above .500 against the top two quadrants. Their strong performances against Kentucky, Florida, and Tennessee, combined with a lack of bad losses, have positioned them as a lock for the tournament. Similarly, Texas secured a crucial road win over Texas A&M, though they face a challenging final week. In the Mountain West, San Diego State and New Mexico delivered a thrilling showdown in Albuquerque. The Lobos edged the Aztecs 81-76 in a game marked by high intensity, with Luke Haupt’s clutch 3-pointer sealing the victory.#texas #ole_miss #missouri #auburn #san_diego_state
