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Thursday, June 25, 2026
Donation will help outfitting BCSO rescue watercraft
We would like to thank American Dreams Spray Foam (Blake Talley: Owner) for his generous donation of a large capacity fuel cell and boat fenders to the Bates County Sheriff’s Office Water Search and Rescue.
We are thankful for community members and businesses supporting our agency, so we are prepared to help those in need!
Courtesy Bates County Sheriff's Office
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La Cygne police department striving to make improvements
To the La Cygne Community,
Over the past two years, your police department has worked diligently to strengthen and modernize public safety services while remaining committed to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and professional policing.
One of our first goals was creating a professional identity that is uniquely La Cygne. Today, our officers wear uniforms that are readily recognizable within our community, featuring our distinctive gray and black color scheme and La Cygne patches. Our patrol vehicles follow that same philosophy, proudly displaying our Swan insignia and providing a professional, highly visible presence throughout the city.
We understand that every dollar we spend comes from our taxpayers. With property taxes and municipal budgets often being topics of discussion, we have made it a priority to be responsible stewards of public funds. Between 2024 and 2026, we purchased three pre-owned patrol vehicles to replace aging equipment and improve reliability. By carefully selecting vehicles that were already largely equipped for police service, we were able to obtain all three for less than the cost of a single new patrol vehicle.
We also updated our duty sidearms through the purchase of quality pre-owned firearms while securing excellent trade-in values for our previous weapons. The total cost to the department was only $52, which was fully absorbed within our existing budget and required no additional taxpayer funding. Likewise, our holsters were replaced at no cost thanks to a donation from a neighboring law enforcement agency.
Technology is another area where we sought improvements without unnecessary spending. Much of the in-car technology had not been updated since its original implementation in 2018. Rather than purchasing all new equipment, we acquired refurbished laptops, vehicle mounts, and smart docking stations. These upgrades provide officers with improved access to information during traffic stops, calls for service, and criminal investigations while significantly reducing costs.
In addition to careful budgeting, we have successfully secured more than $60,000 in grant funding to purchase equipment and resources that may otherwise have required substantial budgeting. Every grant dollar received is a dollar that does not have to come from taxpayers.
Fiscal responsibility extends beyond equipment purchases. We have continuously evaluated call volumes, response times, and service demands to ensure officer staffing levels appropriately match community needs. This approach helps reduce unnecessary overtime and callbacks while also recognizing that officer wellness and family life are critical to long-term retention and sustainability. In addition to, lowering general spending amounts budgeted and fully maintaining control and responsibility over the budget entirely.
Operationally, we have continued our High Visibility Patrol efforts, which have proven effective in reducing opportunities for theft and property crimes. Through proactive policing and diligent investigative work, the department has consistently maintained clearance rates in the upper 80 to 90 percent range.
Our proactive efforts have also contributed to increased enforcement of what are often classified as "society crimes," including traffic violations, city code violations, alcohol offenses, and drug-related offenses. Not every enforcement action results in criminal charges or punitive measures; whenever possible, we strive to educate, correct behavior, and prevent future violations before they become larger issues.
Everything we have accomplished has been guided by our department motto: Transparency. Ethics. Professionalism.
These are not simply words on a letterhead. They are principles that guide our decisions, shape our interactions, and define how we serve the citizens of La Cygne.
From the Chief: As I reflect on my two-year anniversary with the La Cygne Police Department, and my first stint as a Chief of Police, I want to personally thank the community for your support, patience, and trust. We have experienced our share of growing pains, learned from one another, and adapted our services to better meet the needs of our community. Additionally, thank you to the officers who have bought in, invested in this department and community, and make it all possible.
While there is always more work to do, I am proud of how far we have come together.
Thank you for allowing us the privilege of serving La Cygne.
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MU extension programs proven to help when dealing with life changing events
Through MU Extension programs like Missouri AgrAbility and Pearls of Production, Carey found ways to adapt her work, stay safe and continue doing what she loves. What began as a search for help became a turning point, providing the tools and support she needed to move forward.
Today, Carey’s story has come full circle. She now shares her experience not only as a farmer with disabilities but as a woman farmer, speaking to the physical and mental demands of the role. Her message resonates with others balancing family, farm operations and their own well-being.
Her journey shows how support, adaptation and self-care can make it possible to keep doing the work that matters.
Read Carey’s full story and watch her in action on the farm: https://brnw.ch/21x3C0Z
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Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Bates County Northern Commissioner accused of harassment by Amsterdam resident
Minutes from the Bates County Commission meeting June 17, 2026
The Bates County Commission met with Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson. Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley was absent, attending the Data Center Seminar in Jefferson City.
Gayle Beachner presented a letter she personally wrote to the Commission that demanded John immediately cease and desist from engaging in any harassing behavior towards her. She stated that Johns actions have been causing her significant emotional stress and interfering with her ability to live her life and conduct her business. She claimed that his behavior constitutes harassment, intimidation and coercion and is a violation of the law. She claimed that John had made statements to others about her and informed the Commission that on June 6th, 2026, John had sent her a message that was meant for intimidation and harassment due to the comments that Gayle had made on social media regarding his actions dealing with the Solar Farm development. She stated that John sent her a bold comment with a link to an article published in the Chicago Tribune about Gayle, thirty-three years ago, and asked, “Would this make a good share?”
Gayle then paused and explained the article. She stated that this article was written about her approximately thirty-five years ago. She went on to explain that her family and herself were being stalked for months but that had all ended on a Friday night in April when the person came into her bedroom door with a knife. “I attempted to shoot him, it misfired. He stopped and laughed and said, ‘What are you going to do? Shoot me?’” She said that she backed up into the corner and had only shot this gun once, as it was her dad’s double barreled shot gun, and wasn’t even sure it worked. “I’m thinking maybe its loose, and I broke it open, closed it, and luckily I pulled the other trigger” explained Gayle. She then went on to explain, “The highway patrol commander came to my house that night and sat down and said, ‘We’re going to take this over because the guy you shot was a nephew of the county sheriff and he can’t handle this’, but he did handle it because he called his brother from the state of California, a cop out there who was the father of the guy I shot, and they did the investigation. My own attorney, who had just handled my divorce, prosecuted me. I got ran through her system, went to prison, and Governor Carnahan released me in February of 98. That’s the article. I’m not ashamed of it. Lots of national media picked up on it, TV shows and magazines and stuff, so you know that doesn’t concern me. It concerns me that he’s using it against me.” She stated that the unnamed individual died the Saturday or Sunday after he was shot.
As she went on with her letter, she addressed messages that were exchanged that mentioned other individuals that had been vocal about their feelings and how John sent this article to Ron Brown of Amsterdam this morning, June 17th, 2026. Gayle stated that she feels this is an act of retaliation and it has created a fear within her that other retaliation may be orchestrated by John that could lead to physical harm being done through speech to her and her family. She stated if John doesn’t immediately cease and desists from these activities, she will take legal action that may include seeking an injunction to prohibit further harassment, as well as damage for any harm caused by his actions.
Once she was done reading her letter, she pointed out that none of this had to happen, followed by a long pause in the room. She followed up by mentioning, “a big part of me wants to request his immediate removal, but I think the County may need him. That’s all up for debate, still. He’s done a lot of good for the County, but in his elected position, he cannot retaliate against anybody speaking out against him. It’s illegal, straight up illegal, unconstitutional. I wish Jim had been here.”
Gayle asked Trent what he thought but Trent was unsure of what to say or how to handle it, stating that he had never dealt with something like this before. He asked Gayle if the comments that had been made were to stop, she’d be okay and all would be done, but she felt as if there needed to be an apology made since she received a call stating that they had just received the article from John. She felt that was retaliation and stated that he can’t retaliate against the whole county because they’re pissed off at him.
She explained that John and herself had a lengthy Facebook conversation a few nights ago and he had spoken against Brent Bettels leaving her feeling like he had it out for Brent. Gayle stated, “I’ve sent that over to Brent, he’s got something up his sleeve because apparently John’s got other things going to try and cause him problems.”
Gayle feels as if this never had to happen.
Trent was trying to find a middle ground to work this out but was unsure of the legal way to deal with this. Gayle then went on to say, “The legal part is, as an elected official, you cannot retaliate against what anybody says about you or your actions. He retaliated when he first messaged me, but I’m like okay he’s mad, but now that he’s sending it to people, he’s crossed a whole different line here and he’s not decent enough to sit here and acknowledge it. He’s sitting there playing on his phone, probably sending it out to a bunch of other people. I am leaving this office and I’m filing charges. I have been by several news outlets on the way here, giving copies. This isn’t just going to fade away unless he’ll make it fade away.” Trent asked her if an apology from John would make it better, but she stated that she wants it to be a public apology, as she felt one behind closed doors would mean nothing. Trent then told her that her best move might be to seek legal advice, but he was not sure about what to do. She asked Trent if he could ask John to speak so Trent asked if John had any comments he wanted to make. John’s comment was, “I have no response to lies.” Gayle then stated, “I have all the messages, John!” to which he reminded her that he does, too.
Gayle wants something from the Commission “shutting him up” or “throwing him off, then he can talk. I guess.” Trent felt that Jim would know more about what to do. Gayle asked if Trent could call him. Trent explained that he was in a meeting in Jefferson City and would not be available to answer his phone, at this time. Trent asked John what he wanted to do and John stated there is nothing to do and Gayle chimed in saying, “but to sit over there and smile.” Followed by a long stretch of silence.
Gayle then states, “Well, I’ve informed the Commission, so I will make a call, but anything done by him moving forward will fall on the Commission because everyone is aware.” Trent assured her that he would make sure Jim gets the letter she wrote to the Commission.
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2 injured in crash on I-49 overpass near Butler
According to the Missouri Highway Patrol, two people received moderate injuries this afternoon just after 3 pm at the intersection of the southbound I-49 ramp to west 52 highway.
The report indicates that a 2024 Chevrolet Blazer driven by a 68 year old Butler man collided with a 2013 Nissan Maxima driven by a 71 year old Urich, MO man as the driver attempted a left turn onto 52 highway. The drivers were taken to Bates County Memorial Hospital for treatment.
Both vehicles were totaled and towed from the scene.
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Officer involved shooting near Archie, 1 person dead
Upon arrival, deputies encountered an armed male in the driveway.
An exchange of gunfire occurred between the suspect and the deputies.
The suspect sustained a gunshot wound, and deputies administered life-saving measures until the arrival of EMS. The suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene.
No law enforcement officers were injured during this incident. The Western Missouri Sheriff’s Critical Incident Investigation Team (W.M.S.C.I.I.T.) has been activated to conduct an investigation.
As this is an active investigation, no further information is available at this time.
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Little Apple news
June 24, 2026
The Appleton City Rural Health Clinic is offering free Sports Physicals on Wednesdays throughout the month of June. An appointment is required to be seen. To schedule an appointment, please call the clinic at 660-476-2121.
Trinity Lutheran Church, 301 E, 1st St. in AC will sponsor a vacation bible school entitled “Wake, Awake Watching for Jesus” 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. July 6-10. There will be 5 full nights of music, crafts, games, Bible narratives and food. Dinner will be served each evening. The week will end with a water balloon extravaganza.
AC First Christian Church VBS is going to be held 6:30-8:00 p.m. July 8-10. The theme is Noah’s Ark Adventure
There will be a community VBS July 13-17, named JOY STORY! All kids ages PK through 5th grade are invited to come learn about how we have a friend in Jesus. VBS will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m., with each night hosted by a different church: Monday, July 13 at Holy Trinity Church (AC), Tuesday, July 14 at Rockville UMC (Rockville), Wednesday, July 15 at Church of God (AC), Thursday, July 16 at Growing in Grace (AC), and Friday, July 17 at AC Pool for a POOL PARTY. There will be games, food, crafts, and LOTS of fun! Pre-register online at https://forms.gle/3zqv2K1xgsLTvy3Q6 to receive a free t-shirt.
The 22nd Annual Appleton City Car Show will be July 11 in the City Park, on 52 Hwy across from Zink Motor Co. Check in 8:00 a.m.-noon. Car Show noon-3:00 p.m. This is a judged event. There is a $10 entry fee, with proceeds going to two scholarships for local high school students. Top 85 cars and trucks combined, top 3 motorcycles, and top 3 rat rods. There will be food concessions, music, goody bags, live auction, door prizes, 50-50 drawing and dash plaques for all entries. Along with the AC Car Show, Zink Motor Co (across from the Car Show) is hosting the KC Antique Car Club at their dealership. Model A’s and T’s will be on display. The Zink Motor Museum will be open and ready for tours that day. This event is free.
There will be a benefit chicken dinner Friday, June 26 from 4:00-7:30 p.m. at the Fair Haven Park (on HWY C, 8 miles north of Walker, MO) to benefit Stoney Creek, Shady Lawn and Walnut Creek Schools. The menu is all you can eat fried or BBQ grilled chicken, chicken & noodles, beans cole slaw, homemade bread and butter with freshly cranked ice cream and homemade pies for dessert. A freewill donation will be appreciated.
Appleton City Carousel is open weekends through Labor Day, Friday-Sunday 4:00-7:00 p.m. It will close if inclement weather is happening. There have been people from 37 states and 7 countries that have visited.
There is a Quilt Show at the Appleton City Museum through August. The Museum is open Fridays 1:30-4:30 and the same hours on second Saturdays, July 11 and August 8. Appleton City Landmarks Restoration is celebrating 40 years this year. Forty two quilts have been pulled out of storage for showing. They range in age from 1876-2016. The oldest traveled on a covered wagon from Indiana to Missouri. There are friendship quilts from surrounding communities, scrap quilts, quilted wall hangings and more. You are invited to visit the Museum and Clark House to see the collection and vote for your favorite quilt. The Museum is located at 503 N. Maple, one block north of the caution light.
Rural food and farm businesses in St. Clair, Henry, and Bates Counties may be eligible for grants of up to $25,000 through the Harvest to Market grant program. Funding can support projects that expand access to markets and strengthen local food systems. The program is through the Heartland Food Business Coalition and New Growth. Learn more at HeartlandFoodBusiness.org. Applications are due August 31. Learn more at Heartlandfoodbusiness.org
Make a difference in your community by helping neighbors get where they need to go. New Growth Transit is seeking local volunteer drivers to provide transportation for medical appointments, employment, and other essential trips. As a volunteer driver, you’ll receive IRS-approved mileage reimbursement to help offset the cost of using your personal vehicle. Plus, you choose when and where you want to drive flexibility that fits your schedule. Give back, stay connected, and make a real impact one ride at a time. For info, call: 417-283-7991 or email: transporation@wcmcaa.org
Ellett Memorial Hospital Foundation is sponsoring 2 raffles to support local healthcare. You can buy tickets to enter for the chance to win 1/2 a hog. There will be two chances to win. The hog was donated by Ethan Bracher family and processing by Murray’s Butcher Block. The second raffle is for a chance to win a Stihl air inflator or Blackstone Griddle. All winners will be drawn at the AC Car Show July 11. All tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. All money raised will support local healthcare through Ellett Memorial Hospital.
Ellett Memorial Hospital Appleton City offers outpatient specialist services for June and July. Call 660-476-2111 for appointments. Dr. Soni, Thursday, June 25 - Neurology- Dr. Shoaib, Friday, June 26 – Orthopedics- Laura Noble, FNP, Tuesday, June 30 – Dermatology- Dylan Timmerman, PA, Wednesday, July 1 – Upper GI, Colonoscopy-Dr. Namin. Thursday, July 2 - OB/Gyn- Dr. Kallberg, Thursday, July 9 – Dermatology- Dylan Timmerman, PA, Friday, July 10 –Orthopedic-Dr. Gray, Tuesday, July 14 - Rheumatology- Dr. John, Wednesday, July 15– Upper GI, Colonoscopy-Dr. Namin, Thursday, July 16 –Podiatry: Dr. Pace, Friday, July 17 – Orthopedics- Laura Noble, FNP, Wednesday, July 22 - Orthopedic-Dr. Gray, Wednesday, July 22 – Ophthalmology, Dr. Soni, Thursday, July 23- Dermatology- Dylan Timmerman, PA, Friday, July 24 - Dermatology- Dylan Timmerman, PA, Tuesday, July 28 - Rheumatology- Dr. John, Thursday, July 30 - Neurology- Dr.- Shoaib, Friday, July 31– Dermatology- Dylan Timmerman, PA
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
June 24 St. Clair County Health Center Public class on Obesity 10:15 a.m. at Ellett Memorial Hospital Conference Room
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