First Butler council session with new City Administrator, Mark Mathies

Due to evening events at the Bates County Fair, the Butler city council meeting was moved from the usual 7 pm to 3 pm on Tuesday. Councilmen Rich, Hall and Young were absent.

New City Administrator Mark Mathies officially took a seat for his first Butler city council meeting. While his first day of employment was officially July 1st, Mathies has been busy getting acclimated and putting together strategies, which begins with insuring professionalism and quality control, he said while addressing the council. He also spoke of audits, which are not only needed, but are quite necessary in making decisions-  the city "simply can't function" without them and audits will before performed on a regular basis.

He also discussed reviewing city operations, insuring that updates are done, making sure job descriptions are up to date, to name a few. Mathies also made it clear that if any areas need "tightening up", it will be done.

Mathies also addressed the situation with the I-49/52 highway overpass at Butler, which has been at the center of much controversy following at least two fatal accidents. He has already been in contact with MoDOT and is coordinating with highway engineers to find the best solutions to increase visibility on the overpass. Installing a stoplight hasn't been ruled out, but other measures likely will be taken first, such as painting lines on the road so drivers know how far to pull up for best visibility when turning onto the overpass.

Some more good news came from Mathies as he said that coordination is underway to rehab the west 52/Fort Scott rail overpass possibly as soon as 2029. He reiterated that the city and MoDOT are on board with what ever changes are needed, but time and patience will be required regarding the railroad doing their part.  The overpass has been a long ongoing issue due to flooding and most of all, dangers to pedestrian/bicycle traffic and the push is on to get the situation rectified as soon as possible.

Recent storms have downed trees at Oak Hill Cemetery and city crews have made great strides in getting it all cleaned up. Currently, there are a few 'root balls' and stumps that need to be removed. The plan is to use city equipment to finish the cleanup, thus avoiding paying an outside contractor.

Police Chief Jarret Wheatley announced that as of July 1st, Butler was approved for the Blue Shield Program and a grant of $29,000 is available thanks to the program. Wheatley said the money will go a long way towards much needed equipment.

Mayor Henry said an airport manager has been hired, more details coming soon. The city has been without the manager for quite some time and having someone to fill the position will greatly help with day to day operations at the airport.

A new generator at the wastewater plant has been installed but needs to be connected to the facility and steps have been taken to get it done soon. At the city owned power plant, rainwater found its way into one of the Caterpillar generators and work is needed to get it back on line as soon as possible as the city is contractually obligated to provide power to the grid when needed.

Remember, the Butler city council meets on the first and third Tuesdays, 7 pm, at city hall. The public is highly encouraged to attend. 


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From Bates County Clerk, Jami Page

Tomorrow, July 8th, is the last day to register to vote for the August Primary Election. We will be open until 5 p.m.

Bates County Clerk, Jami Page


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Poultry and rabbit show results from the Bates County Fair

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Voting info for Little Miss & Mr. Bates County

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Obituary - Ella Mae Rich

Ella Mae Rich, a lifelong resident of Rich Hill, Missouri, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026 at the age of 98. She devoted her life to her family, her community, and serving others with kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. On January 27, 1951, Ella Mae married the love of her life, Marvin Rich. Together they built a loving home and raised three children: Warren Rich of Rich Hill, Missouri; Vickie Sue Rich of Rich Hill, Missouri; and Greg Rich who preceded her in death. Ella Mae was a proud grandmother to Scottie Rich, Jason (Brenna) and Merida Rich, Jeremy (Katrina) Rich, Tony (Elizabeth) Rich, Keith (Tracy) and Ayden Rich, Becky (Justin) Moreland and Melissa Eaton. Great Grand Children Justin, Riley, Jozelynn, Cheyanne, Jacey, Brooke, Jordan, and Cody. Loved by her Sister Dorothy Mitchell and Daughter-In-Law Nancy Rich.

For many years, Ella Mae dedicated herself to being a homemaker. In 1968, she began a new chapter by joining the Rich Hill School District as a cook at the elementary school. Her talent for preparing delicious home-cooked meals and her strong work ethic earned her a promotion to Head Cook, a position she proudly held for 31 years. She touched the lives of generations of students with both her cooking and caring. Ella Mae’s greatest joy was caring for others. She devoted her life to her family and was always willing to lend a helping hand, providing in-home care to many neighbors during times of need. Her compassion and generosity left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.

She found great happiness in decorating for the holidays, especially the Fourth of July and Christmas. Her beautiful Christmas displays became well known throughout Rich Hill, earning her several city awards and bringing joy to her community. An avid gardener, Ella Mae filled her yard with colorful flowers, particularly her beloved red geraniums and vibrant tulips. Her passion for gardening led her to become an active member of the Rich Hill Garden Club. Ella Mae was also an exceptionally talented quilter. Every new baby in the family received a handmade quilt lovingly crafted by her hands, and many couples treasured the beautiful quilts she created as wedding gifts. Each stitch reflected her love, generosity, and remarkable talent.

She took immense pride in her hometown. Following the Rich Hill Tigers’ 2000 State Championship, Ella Mae created a beautiful quilt that was auctioned to help fund a monument at the Rich Hill Tigers football stadium, leaving a lasting tribute to her community. Ella Mae lived a life defined by love, faith, hard work, and service. She will be remembered for her warm heart, generous spirit, delicious meals, beautiful gardens, treasured quilts, and the countless lives she touched throughout her 98 years.

Funeral Services

Tuesday July 7, 2026

Heuser Funeral Home

Rich Hill, Missouri

Service at 2:00 p.m.

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Obituary - Kent E. Hall

Funeral services for Kent E. Hall of Amsterdam. Missouri will be 10 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 2026 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. No visitation prior to services. Burial in Sharon Cemetery, Drexel, Missouri. Contributions to Adrian VFW Post 1935. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Kent Earl Hall, age 92 of Amsterdam, Missouri died Monday, July 6, 2026 at his home, surrounded by family. He was born November 23, 1933 to Chester Earl and Edna Lizzie Belle Ray Hall in Amoret, Missouri.

Kent is survived by his wife, Hazel Hall of the home; two sons, Todd Hall of Amsterdam, Missouri and Jeff Hall and wife Kelly of Butler, Missouri; two granddaughters, Brandi Hill and husband Jeff and Becki Newkirk and husband Daniel, all of Adrian, Missouri; and four great-grandchildren, Kenton and Libby Hill and Tucker and Garrett Newkirk. Kent was preceded in death by his parents, Chester and Edna Hall; one infant son, David John Hall; and three sisters, Maxine Hall, Nancy Gwin and Shirley Sage.

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Obituary - Jerry Wayne Vogel

Jerry Wayne Vogel, 70, of Deepwater, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, July 4, 2026. He was born on February 19, 1956, in Montrose, Missouri, the youngest of six children born to Erwin and Beatrice (Greufe) Vogel.

Jerry attended St. Mary's Catholic Grade School and graduated from Montrose High School in 1974. Following graduation, he worked alongside his brother, Bill, laying carpet before beginning a career in construction as a heavy equipment operator. He later joined MoDOT, where he worked for many years until his retirement in 2018. Construction was more than a career to Jerry-it was a skill he mastered and a trade he continued to enjoy throughout his life.

Jerry was known for his mild manner, wonderful sense of humor, and his willingness to help others, especially family with any project. He had a kind heart and was always the first to lend a helping hand. His generosity, quiet strength, and caring nature touched everyone who knew him.

His greatest pride and joy were his granddaughters, Jaelyn and Kinnzie, who brought endless happiness to his life. Some of their favorite traditions were going thrift shopping together and sharing meals at Applebee's. One of the girls' favorite memories of their Papa was climbing into his car and discovering the random treasures left behind from their last adventure together, small reminders of the special moments they shared that will always bring a smile to their faces.

Jerry treasured every moment spent with his son, Jerad. Whether they were tackling home projects, spending time with the girls, or enjoying one of Jerad's home-cooked meals, those moments meant everything to him. Together they built an unforgettable wooden swing set for the girls-a project that challenged them both but became one of the family's favorite memories.

Jerry enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved fishing, riding his four-wheeler around the yard, volunteering with Harvesters, and spoiling his beloved dog, Daisy, with the best treats he could find. He found happiness in being outdoors, spending time with those he loved, and creating memories with his family.

He was a faithful member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Don Vogel.

Jerry is survived by his son, Jerad Jurgensmeyer; granddaughters, Jaelyn and Kinnzie Jurgensmeyer; siblings Barbara (Ed) Steinbach, Carolyn (Mike) Pope, Bill (Deb) Vogel, and Judy (Dennis) Daugherty; sister-in-law Cathy Vogel; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Jerry's life was defined not by the things he owned, but by the love he freely gave. His family will forever remember his kind heart, gentle spirit, helping hands, and the countless memories they were blessed to share with him.

Though he will be deeply missed, his love and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Forever loved, always remembered.

The family suggests memorial donations be made to Harvesters and may be left at Hill & Son Funeral Home.

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Obituary - Brandy Elaine Little

Brandy Elaine Little, age 44, of Harrisonville, MO, passed away on July 5, 2026, at Kansas City Hospice House in Kansas City, MO surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born December 6, 1981, Brandy was known for her unwavering loyalty, faith, honesty and fierce protective spirit. She stood firmly beside the people she cared about and faced life’s hardships with determination and grace.

Brandy’s greatest joy was being a mother. Her children were the center of her world. The love she had for them was constant and undeniable. She poured herself into her family and leaves behind a legacy of courage and devotion that will continue through those who loved her most.

Brandy is survived by her children, Ayden, Ava, Jaxsyn, Jaden, and Joshlynn; her partner, Josh Lavelock; her mother, Susan Berryman; her siblings, Joshua Lawson and Nicolette Hollingsworth; nieces and nephews; many other family members and friends who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her father, Richard Lawson.

Brandy was deeply loved and will be dearly missed. Her memory will remain with her family always.

Cremation with a Celebration of Life Service will be held 4:00 p.m. Friday, July 10, 2026 at Heart of Life Church, Garden City, Missouri with inurnment at Orient Cemetery, Harrisonville, Missouri at a later date.

Visitation will be held 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Friday, July 10, 2026 at Heart of Life Church, Garden City, Missouri.

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