Traffic Alert: Accident In Butler

The Butler Police Department along with Butler Fire and the city of Butler Electric Crews are on scene of a one vehicle accident on High and Pine Streets in Butler.

The female driver doesn't have injuries and crews are working to restore power in the area as the vehicle struck a power pole.

Please use caution if you must travel in this area! Pine Street is closed from Orange to High Streets for a undisclosed amount of time.

Marais Des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge National Walking Day

Press Release:

March 28, 2023

Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge is celebrating National Walking Day on Wednesday, April 5th by inviting the public to come out and walk with a ranger for a preview of our new trail.

The Visitor Center and new exhibits will be open form 4-6 PM and the Ranger will be leading walks along the trail at 4:30 and 5:30. We invite everyone to come out and see the new exhibits and learn more about the Refuge and what we have to offer. This includes are almost completed paved mile-long Discovery Nature Trail that starts from the Visitor Center parking lot. 

We also welcome the public to come and see the exhibits and hike the other trails on the Refuge at any other point as well. The Visitor Center is open M-F 8-4 and all of the other trails on the Refuge are open sunrise to sunset.

When: Wednesday, April 5, 4-6 PM
Where: Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters, 24141 KS Hwy 52, Pleasanton.

For more information contact:
Nova Clarke, Refuge Ranger Nova_Clarke@fws.gov
913-352-8956

April is National Gardening Month

COLUMBIA, Mo. – April is National Gardening Month and a good time plant a garden, said University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein. For those who lacked the motivation in the past to garden, consider the following benefits of this popular pastime.

Economic. Vegetable gardening is an excellent way to save on the family food bill. The National Gardening Association (NGA) estimates that a well-maintained vegetable garden yields an average return of $500 per year. Multiplied by the number of vegetable gardens in the country (36 million), the NGA estimates that American food gardeners produce more than $21.6 billion of vegetables annually.

Trinklein adds that you don’t have to spend hundreds on a raised bed filled with an artificial growing medium to benefit economically from gardening. A recent study by Burpee Seed Co. revealed that $50 spent on gardening supplies can be converted into $1,250 worth of produce annually. This twentyfold return on investment also was documented by a national survey conducted a number of years ago. Simply put, if vegetable gardening does not reduce your food bill, you are doing something wrong, Trinklein said.

Health. Digging, hoeing, raking and other gardening activities are a great way to exercise while doing something productive. The average gardener burns between 300 and 400 calories per hour while gardening. One would have to walk about 4 miles at a fairly brisk pace to use up the same number of calories. Also, research has shown that gardening reduces stress that can lead to health problems of various types, Trinklein said.

Gardening is good for one’s health by offering nutritional benefits as well. “The availability of fresh, inexpensive produce from the family garden is conducive to maintaining good dietary habits and, at times, forces greater vegetable consumption,” Trinklein said. “It has been documented that children are much more likely to consume vegetables they grew themselves than those purchased from a supermarket.”

Psychological. By allowing people to connect with nature, gardening tends to restore our spirits and make us feel good about ourselves, Trinklein said. Simply being surrounded by growing plants and blooming flowers is a way to become immersed in another world and a diversion from the stresses and demands of life. Working with plants tends to draw one’s attention from other problems in life and gives people the opportunity to achieve a level of serenity and enjoyment that often escapes us in our technology-based society, he said.

Planting and caring for a flower or vegetable garden also imparts a sense of accomplishment without unreasonable expectations often placed upon us by society. This is one reason many hospitals and health care facilities now offer plant (horticultural) therapy, which recognizes the healing power of plants, especially for those suffering from physical, psychological or emotional problems.

Environmental. Gardens benefit our planet in many ways. Growing food locally instead of having it shipped in from distant locations reduces our carbon footprint. “Plants take in carbon dioxide as they manufacture food, thus helping to reduce the concentration of greenhouse gasses,” said Trinklein. Gardens help to reduce soil erosion by slowing rainfall runoff and allowing it to infiltrate more slowly into the ground. Additionally, gardens tend to serve as a food source and gathering place for many types of wildlife such as butterflies and birds.

Social. Working together strengthens the bonds between people. Gardening represents a universal language that can strengthen family relationships and is a wonderful way for generations of family members to interact, Trinklein said. The most valuable product from a garden just might be the joy derived from working with family and friends.

Gardening also can help bring communities closer together, negating differences that might exist between different groups. Trinklein notes that research has shown that community gardens and urban forests lead to lower levels of crime and domestic violence in cities. Even corporate America is considering the advantages of surrounding people with plants as it emphasizes the importance of landscaping places of business.

Educational. Gardening is a learning experience, since every year provides different challenges to solve. Gardening can encourage children and adults alike to be more curious about their surroundings and nature. “It is a great way to teach youngsters the joy that can come from work and that positive results are not always instantaneous in life,” Trinklein said. Gardens make us more aware of our senses through stimulation of sight, smell and touch. They have the ability to motivate people in many different ways and serve as a creative inspiration.

According to Trinklein, gardens and gardening remind us of everything that is good about life – the beauty of nature, the feeling of pride and sense of accomplishment for having done something productive and the realization that our efforts are helping to improve ourselves, our society and our environment. “For those of you who are gardeners, best wishes for the upcoming growing season – relish it while it lasts,” Trinklein said. “For those of you who are not, there is no time like the present to start.”

https://extension.missouri.edu/media/wysiwyg/Extensiondata/NewsAdmin/Photos/2023/20230323-ngm-1.jpg
April is National Gardening Month. One of the many benefits of gardening is time spent strengthening bonds between people and sharing joy, said David Trinklein, University of Missouri Extension horticulturist. Photo courtesy of MU Extension horticulturist Donna Aufdenberg.

Writer: Linda Geist

Obituary - Mickey Dean Mason

Mickey Dean Mason, 82, of Nevada, passed away Monday, March 27th, 2023, in his home following a lengthy illness surrounded by his children.

Mickey was born June 15, 1940 to Roy and Ruth Mason of Anderson, MO. He was raised in McDonald County and was very active in the local farm and agriculture community which became a constant thread of his passions throughout his lifetime.

He graduated from Southwest City High School in May 1958 and then studied for one year at the School of the Ozarks. On August 12, 1961, Mickey married his childhood sweetheart, Laurel Nichols and they remained married until her death in 2010. In 1962, Mickey and Laurel moved to Nevada, MO. Over their nearly 50 years of marriage, Mickey and Laurel built a full legacy of family together. They had seven children which evolved into countless grand children and great grandchildren.

Mickey applied and was accepted to the Missouri State Highway Patrol Academy on June 15, 1961, his 21st birthday. At that time, he was the youngest patrolman in the state. He proceeded to serve as a Troop D Missouri State Highway Patrolman from April 1, 1962 until his retirement on August 28, 1994. After his retirement, he served part time as a Vernon County Deputy Sheriff. He then was elected and served in the office of Vernon County Sheriff from 1997-2000. After leaving the position of Vernon County Sheriff, Mickey then served as Deputy Sheriff of Barton County, served the 28th Circuit Court, Juvenile Division, Division of Family Services, and Division of Youth Services covering the counties of Vernon, Cedar, Barton and Dade. Throughout the years of his law enforcement career, Mickey never swayed from his core beliefs and traditions of the mission and impact his service brought to not only his family, but to the community and to the man, himself, that he always proved to be.

Salus populi suprema lex esto: “Let the good of the people be the supreme law.”

Over the years, Mickey wore many hats and stayed involved in his community with his family. He was a member of the United Methodist Church, a Boy Scout Leader, Lions Club member, Masonic Lodge member, along with countless other roles. If nothing else, he could be described as a family man who loved his community.

Mickey was preceded in death by his wife, Laurel; both of his parents; and two granddaughters Lindsay Mason and Dru Hancock. Survivors include his sister Diana Virden and husband Ed (Springfield, Mo); son Chris Mason (Nevada); daughter Cheryl Shultz and husband Scott (Springfield, Mo); daughter Cindy Dye and husband Jimmie (Nevada); son Cary Mason (Springfield, Mo); daughter Candace Dunback and husband Chris (Eudora, Ks); daughter Celeste Grothusen and husband Dallas (Wichita, Ks); daughter Crystal Hancock and husband Jesse (Lee’s Summit, Mo); and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 30, 2023 at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada with Pastor George Knox officiating. Interment will follow in Newton Burial Park, Nevada. The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday evening at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mickey’s memory to the Vernon County Cancer Relief Fund in care of Ferry Funeral Home.

Tonight's Butler Lions Club Radio Auction item list

 The annual Butler Lions Club Radio Auction will be on the air 5-7 pm tonight on FM 92.1 and the following list of items will be up for grabs. Call in number to bid is 660-679-3135. Join the fun and help the Lions Club who puts money raised back into the community! Please to not call to bid until it is announced on the air that bidding is open for that item, thank you.

Click images to enlarge, save or print:

Butler Community Café tonight at the Church of the Nazarene

Be sure to join the Butler Community Café tonight at the Butler Church of the Nazarene located at1 10 W Nursery Street.

The meal tonight will be ham, beans and cornbread! Serving will start at 5:30 p.m.! Everyone is welcome!

Water main break in Nevada

Regarding the water main break on Surrey Ln.

The Boil Advisory Notice only affects Surrey Ln, Trotter Ln and the 200 Block of E Grand. 

We will notify everyone affected once the water has been cleared for regular use. Usually 24 hours. If you have any questions please call Marcy @ 417-448-5113

-Courtesy of the city of Nevada

Its that time of the season!

 

Easter Egg Hunt In Rich Hill

The Annual Easter Egg hunt in Rich Hill's West park at 1 pm is on April 8th. Ages 0-through 5th grade.

https://www.facebook.com/events/1769360040185960/?ref=newsfeed

Obituary - Larry Leo Teer

A golden heart stopped beating on Friday, March 17th, 2023, when Larry Leo Teer, 54, of Humansville, Missouri went to be with our Savior Jesus Christ in Heaven.

Larry was born November 26th, 1968, in Kansas City, Missouri to Leo and Shirley Teer. He started working for the city right out of high school, shortly after that he became an Iron Worker. Larry loved to cook; he was a cook in many different restaurants from Kansas City to Springfield. He was a mover for North American Moving Company as well. He worked hard and played harder.

Whether watching Star Trek and other movies or playing cards, pool, chess, cribbage, D&D, and video games-especially “oreo brudders” with his great-nieces. Whatever he was doing, he did it with love and joy in his heart.

Larry was a notable example of kindness, caring, and patience. He never met a stranger, his compassion towards others left a mark on everyone he encountered. He was a happy-go-lucky guy with a unique laugh and a smile that would light up a room. He was a great advice giver and particularly good at putting up a good debate. His heart was HUGE, he was never judgmental and always accepted everyone for who they were.

Larry was a man of faith and loved learning about our Lord. He often sent his loved ones daily Bible verses to encourage their relationships with our Savior. His family and friends meant the world to him, especially his wife Leona, they had just celebrated their anniversary on March 5th. Larry will be remembered for all the love he put out in this world, and even though his earthly work is complete, his legacy will live on in those that knew and loved him.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents Leo and Shirley Teer, his sisters Joni Bartlett & Debbie Gray, Nephew Timothy Hughes.

He is survived by his wife Leona Teer of (Humansville, Mo), 3 Daughters Toni Jo Teer (Kansas City, MO), Jessica Case (Florida), Janet Kirby (Colorado), 8 Grandchildren-Kaylee, Braylen, Dawson, Madison, Mackenzie, Kianna, Chris, and Austyn. His twin brother Terry (Sherry) Teer of Kansas City, Sister Gina (Charles) Sheppeck of Rondo, Mo, and his brother from another Mother Brian (Freddie) Herron of Bolivar, Mo. 4 Nieces, 1 Nephew, 5 Great Nieces and 2 Great Nephews.

Services for Larry will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, April 1, 2023, at Butler Funeral Home in Humansville, Missouri. Visitation will be held one hour prior, starting at 12:00 PM. Interment will take place at Alder Cemetery near Stockton, Missouri.

In Larry’s memory and honor, as Ephesians 4:32 says; "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you".

Take time to study: Bates county ballot April 4, 2023

Bates County Sales Tax

Shall Bates County, Missouri Impose A Countywide Sales Tax of Three Percent (3%) On All Tangible Personal Property Retail Sales Of Adult Use Marijuana Sold In Bates County, Missouri For The Purpose Of Funding General Revenue?

Yes

No

Bates County Memorial Hospital

To Choose By Ballot One

Director Who Shall Serve As A Member Of The Board Of Directors Of Said Hospital For A Term Of Five Years. Vote For One

Jerry Jones

Write In

County Hospital Tax

Shall Bates County, Missouri Impose A Countywide Property Tax Of One-Half Dollar Per One Hundred Dollars Assessed Valuation For The Purpose Of Maintenance, Improvement, And Operation Of The Hospital And For Constructing And Furnishing Necessary Additions Thereto, Including Funding The Hospital’s Ambulance Service?

Yes

No

Archie R-V School District

To Choose By Ballot Three

Directors Who Shall Serve As Members Of The Board Of Education Of Said School

District For A Term Of Three Years Each. Vote For Three

Julie K. Smith

Chad Reynolds

Mark Houchen

Ryan R. Grimes

William C. Stevenson

Write In

To Choose By Ballot One

Director Who Shall Serve As A Member Of The Board Of Education Of Said School District For A Term Of One Year. Vote For One

Jeremy R. Pettet

Write In

Ballard R-II School District

To Choose By Ballot Three Directors Who Shall Serve As Members Of The Board Of Education Of Said School

District For A Term Of Three

Years Each. Vote For Three

Boyd Engelhardt

Preston Wainscott

Write In

Appleton City R-2 School District

To Choose By Ballot Three

Directors Who Shall Serve As Members Of The Board Of Education Of Said School

District For A Term Of Three

Years. Vote For Three

Stephanie Preston

Janet Payton

Nick Oehring

Marcus Parsons

Write In

Hudson R-IX School District

To Choose By Ballot Three

Directors Who Shall Serve As Members Of The Board Of Education Of Said School

District For A Term Of Three

Years Each. Vote For Three

Matthew Green

Bridget Merryfield

Kathy Knox

Write In

Question:

Shall The Board Of Education Of Hudson R-Ix School District Of Bates County, Missouri, Be Authorized To Increase Its Operating Tax Levy By $0.71 Per One Hundred Dollars Of Assessed Valuation For Operating Expenses Of The District? If This Question Is Approved, The District’s Operating Tax Levy Is Estimated To Increase From The Current Operating Tax Of $3.78 To $4.49 Per One Hundred Dollars Of Assessed Valuation Of Real And Personal Property

Yes

No

Drexel Community Fire Protection District Expansion Of Service

Shall The Board Of Directors

Of The Drexel Community Fire Protection District Be Authorized To Levy An Additional Tax Not More Than Forty Cents ($0.40) Per One

Hundred Dollars Assessed Valuation To Provide Funds For The Support Of An Ambulance Service Or Partial Or Complete Support Of An Emergency Medical Technician Defibrillator Program Or

Partial Or Complete Support

Of An Emergency Medical Technician/Paramedic First Responder Program?

Yes

No

City of Adrian

For North Ward Alderman. Vote For One

David E. Hummel, Jr.

Write In

For South Ward Alderman. Vote For One

Matthew Sears

Write In

Proposition A:

Shall The City Of Adrian, Missouri Impose A City Sales Tax Of Three Percent (3%) On The Sales Of Adult Use Marijuana Sold At Retail?

Yes

No

City of Butler

For Ward 1 Councilman Two Year Term. Vote For One.

Nick Alkire

Write In

For Ward 2 Councilman Two Year Term. Vote For One.

Jeff Hall

Write In

For Ward 3 Councilman Two Year Term. Vote For One.

Tray Douty

Marlene Wainscott

Write In

For Ward 4 Councilman Two Year Term. Vote For One.

Scott Mallatt

Jacob T. Shipley

Write In

Proposition A:

Shall The City Of Butler, Missouri Impose A City Sales Tax Of Three Percent (3%) On The Sales Of Adult Use Marijuana Sold At Retail?

Yes

No

City of Amsterdam

For Mayor

Shane Gerleman

Write In

For Board of Alderman Two Year Term. Vote For Two.

Vicky Vail

Trina Brkhart

Write In

Question:

Shall The City Of Amsterdam, Missouri, Impose An Additional City Sales Tax Of One Percent?

Yes

No

City Of Drexel

For Mayor

Nick McKelvey

Write In

For Alderman At Large. Vote For Two.

Timothy J. Eastwood

Terry Baker

Write In

City Of Hume

For Board Of Alderman Two Year Term. Vote For Two.

Adam Swarens

VickiGwinn

Write In

City Of Rich Hill

For Mayor Two Year Term

Nathan Kassner

Write In

For North Ward Alderman. Two Year Term. Vote For One.

Write In

For North Ward Alderman.One Year Term. Vote For One.

Write In

For South Ward Alderman. Two Year Term. Vote For One

Terry D. Bonham

Write In

For South Ward Alderman. One Year Term. Vote For One.

Write In

Proposition A:

Shall The City Of Rich Hill, Missouri Impose A City Sales Tax Of Three Percent (3%) On The Sales Of Adult Use Marijuana Sold At Retail?

Yes

No

City Of Rockville

For Mayor. Two Year Term. Vote For One.

James Williamson

Write In

For Alderman. Vote for Two. 

James Damon

Write In

Village Of Foster

For Board Of Trustees. Two Year Term. Vote For Two.

Ricky Fischer

William Shane Jacobs

Write In

Village Of Passaic

For Board Of Trustees. Two Year Term. Vote For Three.

Angelia Cumpton

Linda M. Cole

Write In

Mingo Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

Eric Fuerst

Write In

For Board Members. Vote For Two.

Kent Page

Larry Bergschneider

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

Write In

East Boone Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

Dave Arnold

Write In

For Board Members. Vote For Two. 

Derek Aurand

Brad Ferguson

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

Erin Aurand

Write In

Question:

Shall East Boone Township Levy An Additional Tax Rate Of $0.3494 On Each $100.00 Assessed Valuation For A Period Of Four Years?

For 

Against

West Boone Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

Dave Lemke

Write In

For Board Members. Vote For Two.

Mike Sanders

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

John Dean

Write In

Question:

Shall West Boone Township Levy An Additional Tax Rate Of $0.35 On Each $100.00 Assessed Valuation for a period of four years?

For

Against

Shawnee Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

Wesley Merritt

Write In

For Board Members. Vote For Two.

Lonny Duckworth

Dillion Franklin

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

Abby Salazar

Write In

Question:

Shall Shawnee Township Levy An Additional Tax Rate Of $0.3609 On Each $100.00 Assessed Valuation For A Period Of Four Years?

For

Against

Spruce Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

Paul Wainscott

Write In

For Board Members. Vote For Two.

Frank Inglis

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

Susan Doty

Write In

Question:

Shall Spruce Township Levy An Additional Tax Rate Of $0.35 On Each $100.00 Assessed Valuation For A Period Of Four Years?

For

Against

Deepwater Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

Dave Koch

Write In

For Board Members. Vote For Two.

George Callahan

Chris Rotert

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

Kathy Knox

Write In

Question:

Shall Deepwater Township Levy An Additional Tax Rate Of $0.3520 On Each $100.00 Assessed Valuation For A Period Of Four Years?

For

Against

Summit Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

Steve Lewis

Write In

For Board Members. Vote For Two.

Bryon Cook

Dirk Diehl

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

Damon Noe

Write In

Question:

Shall Summit Township Levy An Additional $0.3537 On Each $100.00 Assessed Valuation For A Period Of Four Years?

For

Against

Walnut Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

Jonathan Laughlin

Taylar Hough

Write In

For Board Members. Vote For Two.

Joshua Rushing

Steven Spencer

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

Donald Trelease

Write In

New Home Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

Tim Champlin

Write In

For Board Members. Vote For Two.

Jim Heathman

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

Lacy Laning

Write In

Lone Oak Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

Hunter Watson

Write in

For Board Members. Vote For Two.

Elliott Smalley

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

Jalyn Watson

Write In

Pleasant Gap Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

August Dean Fischer

Write In

For Board Members. Vote For Two.

Kellen Fischer

Belinda Schapeler

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

Kathie D. Fischer

Write In

Question:

Shall Pleasant Gap Township Levy An Additional Tax Rate Of $0.3522 On Each $100.00 Assessed Valuation For A Period Of Four Years?

For 

Against

Osage Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

Leonard Tourtillott

Write In

For Board Members. Vote For Two.

Mark Yohe

Kenneth Kassner

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

Write In

Howard Township

For Trustee. Vote For One.

Cole Campell

Write In

For Board Members. Vote For Two.

Gary E. Franklin

Thomas H. Sutcliffe

Write In

For Clerk. Vote For One.

Write In

From the desk of Vernon County Sheriff Jason Mosher

Sheriff Mosher has ordered the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office flag to be flown at half staff in honor of former Sheriff Mickey Mason. RIP Mr. Mason. 

Thank you for your service to Missouri and the Vernon County citizens. When the flag is removed, it will be given to the family of Sheriff Mason.

Update: Police still searching for Morris

Mid America Live News spoke with Bates County Sheriff Chad Anderson this morning and he advised that the Sheriff's Office was still searching for Michael Morris.

On 3/27/23 at approximately 1:30pm Bates County courthouse staff attempted to take a subject in custody during court (he was not in custody at the time). The subject fled from the court personnel out the west side of the courthouse.

His name is Michael Morris, age 28 from Butler. Morris is 6’ 170lhs blue eyes and blonde to light brown hair.

Mr. Morris was wearing a dark shirt and blue jeans at the time. Morris has an active warrant for burglary and domestic assault.

If you see Morris please contact the Bates County Sheriffs office at 660-679-3232. Or the Butler Police Department at 660-679-6131.

Obituary - Jeffrey Brent Greer

Jeffrey Brent Greer, age 58, of Clinton, Missouri, passed away Sunday, March 26, 2023 at the St. Luke’s Hospital on the Plaza in Kansas City, Missouri. He was born on July 12, 1964 in Clinton, Missouri to Patricia Ann and Bertie Emmett Greer.

He grew up in Warsaw, Missouri and graduated from Warsaw High School, Class of 1982. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Army where he served for 4 years before reenlisting in the United States Army for another 4 years, completing his military service in 1991.

On May 7, 1994, he was united in marriage to Kim Smith. They would make their home in Kansas City, Missouri prior to moving to Clinton, Missouri in 2001.

He was a member of Freedom Missionary Baptist Church, where he was saved on April 20, 2004 and baptized into the church.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his father-in-law, Eddie Smith, a brother-in-law, Eddie Smith Jr. and a sister-in-law, Laveta Smith.

He is survived by his wife, Kim Greer (Sissie), of the home, two sons, Mitchell Greer of Springfield, Missouri and Riley Greer of Scott Air Force Base in Illinois, a bonus daughter, Christina Ortiz, of the home, a bonus granddaughter, Catalina, 4 siblings, Malea Miller, Gayla Beach, Lanny Greer (Diane) and Brett Greer (Kristy), his mother-in-law, Janie Smith, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Memorial services will be held on Sunday, May 7, 2023 at the Freedom Missionary Baptist Church in Quincy with Time TBA. Interment with Military Honors will follow at the Freedom Cemetery.

Anyone missing a dog in rural Butler?

This dog showed up NE County Road 1993 cross street NE County Road 664, in rural Butler!! He is friendly, no collar been in the area for couple days now.

If this is your dog please message us here at Mid America Live and we will get you hopefully back your dog!

Obituary - Brandon Michael Blom

Brandon Michael Blom, 34 of Olathe, KS, passed away Thursday, March 23, 2023. Visitation will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 28th at Abundant Life Church, 304 SW Persels Rd, Lee's Summit, MO 64081, with funeral to follow at 11 a.m., interment at Raymore Cemetery, Raymore, Missouri.

Brandon was born April 21, 1988, to Jeffrey Blom and Kaye Hopper Blom (Carter) in Kansas City, Missouri. After graduating from Butler High School he honorably served in the United States Marine Corps for five years, with multiple tours of duty, including Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan. 

He married Rebecka Lynn Braaksma in 2015, settled back into the Kansas City area, and began a law enforcement career with the Olathe, Kansas, Police Department. Over the last eight years, Brandon enjoyed serving the community and receiving the blessing of three precious daughters, whom he dearly loved. 

He enjoyed taking his girls fishing, working with his hands, grilling, and making pepper- sauce, so spicy that no one else could eat it! Brandon confessed his need for a Savior, and gave his life to Jesus Christ as an adolescent. 

Those who knew him well were privileged to know him as a man of deep thought with keen observations, wrestling with the intersecting realities of his faith and the broken world he experienced.

He is preceded in death by a sister, Megan Blom, grandparents Arthur and Margaret Blom, and Van and Judith Hopper. Brandon is survived by his wife, Rebecka Blom of the home, their 3 daughters Elayne, LeAnn, and Alena, his parents Kaye and Greg Carter, and Jeff and Katia Blom, his sister, Rebecca Zarse her husband Kyle, nieces Emma, Addison, Avery, Lydia, and nephew Landon, along with aunts, uncles, cousins, and in-laws.

Attention High School Seniors apply for the True Patriot Scholarship

It’s an honor to partner with high schools in Cass, Bates and Johnson County to award these scholarships. 

If you have a senior in one of these districts, please have them reach out to their school counselor for more info or send me a message for an application.

- Courtesy of Senator Rick Brattin 

Butler Youth Wrestling season comes to an end..

Well that's a wrap for a great season!

Congratulations to all the medalists: Melanie Varns, Hunter Long, Catherine Cook, and Errabella Castro. Here's some highlights from individual matches:

 
Melanie Varns- lost first round, wrestled back, and beat a boy out before losing her third match, and going 1-2 in the boys. She finished runner up in the girls division.

 
Illiana Rodriguez-wrestled tough, but lost her first two matches. She will continue to grow. Her little lights always going to shine to me no matter what, keep improving and we will get there.

 
Brock Erisman- won first round, beating a very good kid in a close match, lost the quarterfinal, and bounced back to win his next one in the wrestlebacks, but fell short in the blood round to a "Parn," a very good wrestler, to end his season.

 
Levi Wiese- lost first round in a close match, he should have won IMO, won his second round, but came up short in the 3rd round. Ending a very good season!

Julius Varns- won his first match by fall, but lost in overtime in the quarterfinals, couldnt get the near fall, only a "one-count", in the final seconds. Thats how close the winning and losing margin is in this sport. Tough loss, won his next match, but suffered another heartbreaking loss, 4-3, in the blood round.

Covy Riley- lost in the first round, wrestled back determined to beat a kid in the second round, but came up short in the third round against another good wrestler. A tough bracket for a second year wrestler. Outstanding performance!

 
Lucas Dixon- lost his first two rounds, but gained a ton of experience.

 
Brayden McGuire- lost to state champ in the first round. In the second round, wrestled back by fall. In the third round, was up 7-0, but got caught and pinned.

 
Elizabeth Bedwell- lost her first round and then won her second, before losing the third match. Ending a great season of growth for this first year wrestler.

 
Chris Castro- lost in the opening match, and ended up having to medical forfeit the tournament, due to a broken foot suffered the day before. Taking out a contender to the title with an almost perfect season, only one loss. Very disheartening for the young wrestler.

 
Needless to say, some of these wrestlers would like to have one or two of these matches back, but that's how it goes in this sport. 

Wrestling will humble you, especially at the state tournament! You never fully lose, you continue to grow and improve. 

I'm proud of all the kids and their accomplishments, and with the results. We have unfinished business for 2024!!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!

- Coach Varns 

Catherine Cook 4th place 12U/95lbs.

Melanie Varns 2nd place in8 U/45lbs

Hunter Long, 3rd Place, 12U/175lbs.

Errabella Castro 6th place 10U/ 110lbs.

One arrested in Butler for stealing

On Monday March 27th around 4:34 p.m. the Bates County Sheriff's Office along with the Butler Police Department arrested 48 year old Ronald S. Narron Jr. of Butler, Missouri.

Mr. Narron was arrest for 1 count of stealing and he was booked into the Bates County Jail in Butler. 

The bond for Ronald S. Narron Jr. was set at $1,000 cash only.

Disclaimer: Arrest records are public information. Any indication of an arrest does not mean the individual identified has been convicted of a crime. All persons arrested are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Bates County Commissioners issue statement regarding Cornland Special Road District audit

 

From Bates County Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson and Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney

The Bates County Commissioners want to again, clarify information that has been released from the former State Auditor's office, Nicole Galloway.

People are told that the Commissioners had been paid by Cornland Special Road District to maintain their roads. The term "Commissioner" refers to the Board Members, not the County Commissioners. If you read the findings of the Auditor's office, you will see the names of the persons who received money. The Bates County Commissioners did not receive any money for maintaining the roads, nor did any of us do any work to maintain the roads.

The Auditor's office looks at Bates County like the County they are in. The County Commissioners in the county oversee the maintenance and repairs of those roads. Bates County has a "Township" form of government. You the residents of the township elect a township or special road board. They are responsible for overseeing the maintenance of the roads. The County Commissioners have no authority over these boards. When you call the Commissioners with a road problem, we in turn call the township or special board members and ASK them to check on the roads and repair the roads as needed. Again, all we can do is the same as you can do. ASK board members to repair the roads.

For the County Commissioners to be able to correct road issues, Bates County would have to abolish the township from of government. A note on this issue, if Bates County were to abolish the township form of government, ZONING would not be any part of that. Zoning can become effective at any time and ONLY by a vote of the public. There is one township in Bates County that has implemented zoning and it only applies to that township.

The person who initiated the request for an audit only had to pay for the price of a stamp. Since the audit has been conducted, Cornland Special Road District now must pay the Auditor's Office  $28,000.00+ in 5 years. Cornland only receives approximately $8,500 per year in tax revenue and CART funds. This amount is to be used for maintenance and gravel for the roads.

Again, your Bates County Commissioners have NO control over the township or special road district boards.

Jim Wheatley
Trent Nelson
Ken Mooney

Obituary - Debra Dale Wolf

Debra Dale Wolf, age 68, Linn Valley, Kansas passed away Wednesday, March 22, 2023. She was born in Baltimore, Maryland on April 3, 1954 the daughter of Calvin and Doris Marshall Holmes. She was united in marriage to Ted Wolf on September 15, 1973. As a team, they worked in several areas of retail sales.

She loved to travel. Her favorite excursions were trips to the beach. She was a dog lover. She liked old rock and roll, and fashionable clothing and shoes.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and a sister, Donna Otto. Debra is survived by her husband, Ted and a daughter, Jamie Wolf and husband John Bratka.

Graveside funeral service will be held 2 pm Wednesday, March 29, 2023 at the Trading Post Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to a pet rescue of your choice. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.

Butler Bears Varsity Baseball Falls Short in Warsaw tonight 5-2

Butler Bears Varsity Baseball Falls Short to Warsaw, 5-2

In the bottom of the third inning, Warsaw tied things up at one. Nick Bagley singled on the first pitch of the at bat, scoring one run.

Warsaw pulled away for good with two runs in the fourth inning. In the forth Gage Whitaker doubled on the first pitch of the at the bat, scoring two runs.

Josh Bunch toed the rubber for Warsaw. The pitcher went five innings, allowing two runs on four hits and striking out three. 

Maddox Fennewald was on the mound for Butler Bears.The pitcher allowed eight hits and five runs over five inning, striking out nine.

Zayn Carson threw one inning in relief out the bullpen. Carson went 2-for-3 at the plate to lead the bears in hits.

Warsaw racked up eight hits on the day. Kendall Bagley and Whitaker all managed multiple hits for Warsaw.

El Dorado Springs man arrested on several warrants

On Tuesday March 21st the El Dorado Springs Police Department arrested Terry G. Coleman, 56, of El Dorado Springs, Missouri.

Mr. Coleman was arrested for 1.) Cedar County Warrants charging him with Failure to Appear on the original charges of Possession of a Weapon 2.) Forgery of Checks 3.) Larceny 4.) Obstructing Police with no bond 5.) Polk County Warrant charging him with Failure to Appear on the original charge of Possess Amphetamine with no bond.

Coleman also had several El Dorado Springs Municipal Court Warrants, charging him with Dangerous Drugs and Property Damage (2 Counts)with a $327.50 bond.

He was transfer to the Cedar County Jail pending bond and a court appearance.

Disclaimer: Arrest records are public information. Any indication of an arrest does not mean the individual identified has been convicted of a crime. All persons arrested are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Obituary - Taylor Jean Huffstutler

Taylor Jean Huffstutler, age 32, of Warsaw, Missouri passed away Saturday, March 18, 2023 at her home. She was born on December 3, 1990 in Eldorado Springs, Missouri the daughter of Brian Williams and Linda Philpot

She grew up in Kansas City and graduated from Van Horn High School in 2008. Taylor married her high school sweetheart, John Huffstutler on May 22, 2009. They made their home in Raytown before moving to Warsaw in 2021.

She is survived by her husband, John Huffstutler, a daughter, Anna Huffstutler, four sisters; Misty Barrios, Ashley Meyer, Meegan Van and Lauren Stobbe and a brother Bobby Pearce.

Arrangements for her cremation are under the direction of the Reser Funeral Home, Warsaw.

Obituary - Diana Lee Lovelady

Memorial graveside service and inurnment for Diana Lovelady of Belton, Missouri formerly of Amoret, Missouri will be 1 p.m. Monday, April 3, 2023 at the Benjamin Cemetery, Amoret, Missouri under direction of Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. 

Contributions to the Amoret Christian Church or American Diabetes Association. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Diana Lee Lovelady, age 64 of Belton, Missouri formerly of Amoret, Missouri died Sunday, March 26, 2023 at her home. She was born May 20, 1958 to Paul Francis and Bertha Maxine Warren Castle in Fort Scott, Kansas.

Diana is survived by three sisters, Vickie Wackerman and husband Jim of Butler, Missouri, Paula Reed and husband Mike of Adrian, Missouri, and Amy Schulz of Belton, Missouri; a nephew, Brandon Wackerman and wife Jenny of Blue Springs, Missouri; and a niece, Brooke Asbury and husband Seth of San Antonio, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Wayne Lovelady.