Archie man Receives Sustainable Agriculture Grant

Doug Drury of ArchGen in Archie, MO, was awarded $17,142 for the project, "Beyond the Cone: Extracting Value from Hop Leaf Waste."

 "This project evaluates whether the oil from hop leaves, normally a discarded byproduct, can serve as a useful brewing additive or a natural insect repellent for perennial berry crops. " said Drury.

Each grant was awarded as part of NCR-SARE's 2026 Farmer Rancher Grant Program, a competitive grant program for farmers and ranchers who want to explore sustainable solutions to problems through on-farm research, demonstration, and education projects. 

The focus for each of the NCR-SARE grant programs is on research and education. Funding considerations are based on how well the applicant presents the problem being addressed, the project's relevance to sustainable agriculture in the 12-state North Central region, and how well it aligns with NCR-SARE's goals, among other factors specific to each grant program.

NCR-SARE's Administrative Council (AC) members decide which projects will receive SARE funds. The AC includes a mix of agricultural stakeholders in the region. Council members hail from regional farms, ranches, the Cooperative Extension Service, universities, federal agencies, and nonprofits.

Since 1988, the SARE program has helped advance farming systems that improve profitability, stewardship and quality of life through a nationwide research and education grants program. The program, part of USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, funds projects and conducts outreach designed to bring sustainable innovations to agricultural systems.

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Crowder College adult education classes coming to Butler, deadline August 31st

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Obituary - Wilma Maxine Gier

Wilma Maxine Gier, 92, of Adrian, MO, formerly of Rich Hill, MO, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 24, 2026 in Harrisonville, MO. A visitation will be held at Heuser Funeral Home, Rich Hill, MO on Thursday, August 27, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. followed by a Celebration of Life at 5:00 p.m.. A private family graveside service will be held following the Celebration of Life. Memorial contributions can be made to the Adrian Fire Department in her honor.

Wilma Maxine (Diehl) Gier was born August 25, 1933 in Rich Hill, MO. Born to George O. & Mary Pauline (Stewart) Diehl. Wilma attended Rich Hill, MO high school. Wilma married Gilbert Jackson, and of this marriage two children were born; Linda (Jackson) Casey & G. Bruce Jackson. Later Wilma was married to the true love of her life, Bill “the Barber” Gier.

Wilma worked for Tiona Truck Line for 10 years, and later made her mark as a Real Estate Broker for A&R Real Estate. Wilma had a deep passion for the wilderness and mountains, as well as all its animals. Her fondest memories were of those she shared with Bill on their

many vacations throughout the wilderness of America. In her later years, Wilma enjoyed watching every Chiefs football game with a cold crisp Sunkist, visiting with her loved ones, being a brutally honest taste tester for whatever new recipe Jonhenry & Makenna tried for dinner, and most of all eating fried chicken with her beloved dog Trixie, every Thursday. Wilma had a passion for Jesus that she was not afraid to share with anyone. She often shared her excitement to be able to see her Lord & Savior.

One of Wilma’s greatest accomplishments and joys of life was her great grandson Jonhenry. From the moment he was born he was her best friend, and she was his. Wilma took on a new challenge when Jonhenry was 12 and he came to live with her. The two made countless memories and shared many wonderful years together. Though life was not easy, she never wavered in making sure he was cared for, supported, and deeply loved. Her pride and love for Jonhenry and Makenna were evident in everything she did, and their special bond was one she treasured. Wilma loved her law enforcement family deeply (many of whom called her “grandma”), introduced to her by her great grandson. No matter what uniform was worn, she welcomed them to her table where many dinners and visits were held, often time swapping war stories with the guys. She continued to share a home and her life with Jonhenry, and his wife Makenna, over the years, creating many cherished memories together. Wilma touched the hearts of many, and worked hard to make sure you knew she loved you. She will be missed greatly, by all who knew her, but her memory and the life lessons she shared, will be carried on forever. She leaves behind one important message to all; love hard, enjoy the little things, laugh constantly, and most importantly love Jesus.

Wilma was preceded in death by her parents; husband Bill; her two brothers Raymond and Orville; her two children Linda (Jackson) Casey & Bruce Jackson; and her beloved four legged friend Trixie. She is survived by grandchildren Jamie Bise, Mary Beth Hill, Kelly (Jill) Kiester; her great grandchildren Jonhenry (Makenna) Jackson, Karter Keister, Tanna

Keister, SamanthaMcCarty-Kiester, TearstenKeister, JacksonHill; andahostofextended familyandfriends.
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Suzanne Dudley 100th birthday coming Sept. 8

Suzanne Dudley is turning 100! There will be an open house at Medicalodges of Butler from 3 to 4:30 pm on September 8th, 2026. All are welcome!

If you would like to send her a card, you may send it to:

Suzanne Dudley

c/o Medicalodges Butler

103 E. Nursery St.

Butler, MO 64730


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Obituary - Carol Grandon

Carol Grandon (Knecht), beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026, at The University of Kansas Health Olathe Hospice House. She was born on November 1, 1943, in Louisburg, Kansas, the cherished daughter of Clarence and Lucile Knecht.

Carol grew up in her hometown of Louisburg, where she attended local schools and graduated with the Louisburg High School class of 1961. Those who knew her in her early years remember a young woman with a joyful spirit and an ever-present smile. Shortly after graduation, Carol’s life took a happy turn when she married her high school sweetheart, Bob Grandon, on August 31, 1962, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Their loving partnership was a source of deep happiness and stability that anchored her life for many years.

A lifelong resident of Louisburg, Carol was devoted not only to her family but also to her faith community, maintaining lifelong membership at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Her faith was evident in her kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for those around her.

Professionally, Carol found her passion in serving others as a hairdresser, dedicating over 30 years to her craft. She was the proud owner and operator of Carol’s Beauty Salon—a place known not just for hair care, but for the laughter, camaraderie, and friendship she offered every client who walked through her door. Excellence in her work and compassion for her clientele defined Carol’s career, leaving an indelible mark on all she served.

Carol’s joy radiated from the simple pleasures she embraced daily. She had a love for mowing her yard, tending lovingly to her flowers, and helping her husband with the farm. Carol’s kitchen was often filled with the delicious aroma of her baking—another testament to the care she poured into everything she did. However, her greatest passion was her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly the light of her life. She cherished every moment spent with them, her love for each boundless and unconditional.

To her family and friends, Carol was the embodiment of sweetness, strength, and selflessness. She was always quick with laughter and smiles, placing the happiness and wellbeing of others before her own. Her caring nature shone in her unfailing desire to ensure everyone was taken care of and had what they needed.

Carol is survived by her loving daughter, Cathy (Greg) Clayton; her devoted son, Ronnie (Lorraine) Grandon; her treasured grandchildren, Colby (Lori) Reed, Shelby Grandon, and Hayley Grandon; her adored great-grandchildren, Kensington Reed and Braelynn Reed; and her dear brother, Larry Knecht. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Grandon; her father, Clarence Knecht; and her mother, Lucile Knecht.

Carol’s legacy endures in the lives of her family, the warmth of her friendships, and the countless memories shared throughout her remarkable life. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her unwavering compassion, gentle strength, and the joyful spirit she brought to every day.

Rosary will be prayed at 5:30 pm, Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at Dengel & Son Mortuary - Louisburg Chapel, 1 Aquatic Drive, Louisburg, KS 66053. Visitation will follow from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am, Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 606 S Elm Street, Louisburg, KS 66053. Burial will follow at the St. Mary Cemetery, Louisburg, KS.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made payable to the Alzheimer's Association , P.O. Box 96011 Washington, DC 20090, or to the University of Kansas Health Olathe Hospice House, Attn: Marsha 15310 S Marion St, Olathe, KS 66061.

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Obituary - Jim Anderson

Jim Anderson’s wishes were to be cremated and remembered with fond memories. There are no public services planned at this time. Arrangements under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Contributions to the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel for expenses. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

James “Jim” Chester Anderson, age 62 of Butler, Missouri died Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at his home. He was born July 13, 1964 to William and Rosalee Agers Anderson in Washington County, Missouri.

Jim is survived by two daughters, Christina Cummings and husband Mike of Butler, Missouri and Sultana; one half-brother, Nicholas Ray Miller; one sister, Tina Anderson of Butler, Missouri; two brothers, Henry Anderson of Butler, Missouri and Floyd Anderson. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Wallace Christoper Anderson and Joe Anderson; and one sister, Irene Blair.

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Obituary - Jimmie Don Melton

Jimmie Don Melton, 78, Nevada, MO, passed from this life on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg, KS. Jim was born October 10, 1947 in Nevada, to Wiley Don and Margaret Mary (Widman) Melton. He married Suzanne Bailey on January 26, 1969 in Nevada and they celebrated 57 years of marriage before his passing.

     Jim was raised in Walker, MO and graduated from Walker High School Class of 1965. For a time, he drove fertilizer trucks for Caldwell and Sons before deciding to pursue his passion for the appliance business. Jim was in the appliance business for over 50 years and owned and operated his own store, Jim’s Appliance and Repair. Through the years, he met many people and made many friends with his easy-going ways. Jim loved being with his family. He especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and never missed a game. He was a member of the Nevada Elks, Ducks Unlimited, and an avid duck hunter.   

      In addition to his wife, Suzanne of the home, he is survived by two children: Don Melton (Jill), Webb City, MO, and Christy Ast (Kevin), Nevada; five grandchildren, Trey Melton, Osh Kosh, WI, Braxton Melton, Nixa, MO, Bailey Ast, Nevada, Riley Melton, Webb City, and Kellan Ast, Nevada; his beloved dog, Timber; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, A.E. Melton.

      Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada. The family will receive friends from 10-11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home. Private interment will follow in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Dederick, MO.

     Memorials are suggested in his name to Mt Pleasant Cemetery c/o Ferry Funeral Home.

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Obituary - Geraldine Fisher

Geraldine Fisher, 88, of Archie, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Golden Years in Harrisonville, MO. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, August 28, 2026, with a visitation starting at 1:00 pm, at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO. Burial in the Austin Cemetery, Archie, MO.

A complete obituary will be added when it becomes available.

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