Nevada police successfully remove more narcotics from the streets

The Nevada Police Department Investigations Division has concluded another successful operation targeting the distribution of illegal narcotics within our community.

Following an extensive investigation, detectives developed information indicating that methamphetamine was being distributed from a residence located near a public school. Based on the evidence gathered during the investigation, detectives obtained and executed a search warrant at the residence yesterday.

During the search, officers seized suspected methamphetamine, additional suspected controlled substances, and items commonly associated with the distribution and use of illegal narcotics.

Two individuals were taken into custody during the execution of the search warrant. Once the investigation is complete and laboratory testing has been finalized, the case will be submitted to the Vernon County Prosecuting Attorney's Office for review and consideration of formal criminal charges.

The Nevada Police Department remains committed to taking a proactive approach to identifying those involved in the distribution of illegal narcotics. We will continue working every day to hold offenders accountable and keep our community a safe place to live

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Harrisonville's Daniel Barnett receives special honor

Daniel Barnett was honored with the Harrisonville Rotary Club's Service Above Self Award for 2026

The Service Above Self Award is presented annually to a community member who exemplifies Rotary's commitment to service in the community. Barnett was recognized during the club's July 1 meeting.

Past Harrisonville Rotary Club President Grant Purkey presented the award, recognizing Barnett for his unwavering commitment to serving the Harrisonville community through his professional role and extensive volunteer service.

Barnett is employed by the City of Harrisonville, MO, as the City Clerk and Public Information Officer. Beyond his professional responsibilities, Barnett dedicates countless hours to volunteer service. He serves on the Harrisonville Bright Futures Advisory Board, is a past president of the Harrisonville Kiwanis Club, and remains an active member of the organization. He also volunteers as a coach with the Harrisonville Soccer Club, serves in several capacities within Cornerstone Community Church, and regularly lends his time and talents to community events and service projects throughout Harrisonville.

The Harrisonville Rotary Club is proud to recognize Barnett for exemplifying Rotary's ideal of Service Above Self through his leadership and dedication to the community.

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Community support sought following officer's medical emergency

BATES COUNTY, MO – The Bates County Sheriff’s Office is requesting prayers and financial support for one of our own following a severe medical emergency.

On July 8th, a Bates County Transportation Officer suffered a hemorrhagic stroke while on duty at the U.S. Marshals Office in Kansas City. The officer, Colt Brown, was immediately rushed to a Kansas City area hospital, where he remains in critical condition.

The officer, who joined the Bates County Sheriff’s Office approximately five months ago, faces a very long road to recovery. Medical professionals estimate that he will require at least one year of intensive rehabilitation and recovery.

Because of his short tenure with the agency, the officer has not yet accrued sick leave or paid time off. Compounding the situation, he serves as the primary caretaker for his disabled mother, who resides in his home.

To support the officer and his family during this incredibly challenging time, the Bates County Sheriff’s Office and community members are planning a fundraiser. All proceeds will go directly toward:

Covering daily living expenses.

Assisting with fuel costs for his elderly mother to travel back and forth to the Kansas City hospital.

Funding future medical expenses and specialized recovery devices.

"Our hearts are heavy as we support our colleague and his family through this crisis," said Sheriff Chad Anderson. "In law enforcement, we are a family, and right now, our family needs the community's help. Any contribution, prayer, or well-wish will make a profound difference as he fights to recover. I want to sincerely Thank the US Deputy Marshals and Officer Stewart who recognized the medical situation and got Officer Brown medical care. Because of thier fast action, Officer Brown recieved quick medical care improving his chances of survival"

Details regarding the upcoming fundraiser, including dates, location, and a donation account, will be released in the coming days.

In the meantime, those wishing to offer immediate support or inquiries on how to assist can contact the Bates County Sheriff’s Office at 660-679-3232 or follow our official social media pages for updates.

*update. Donations can be made at the Adrian bank to the Bates County Sheriff’s Community Benefit Fund

Venmo donation can be made via the image below.

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Quiet week for the Bates County Commission

July 1, 2026 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

No meetings were held.

July 6, 2026 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

No meetings were held.

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Obituary - Charles Lee White Sr

Charles Lee White Sr., age 86, passed away on July 6th, 2026, after a short battle with lung cancer. He was born in Oklahoma on February 15th, 1940, to Santford and Lucille White, and was one of two children; Sister: Louise (White) Hatfield Baker. Charles lived part of his youth in Harrisonville, MO. Charles would later graduate from North Kansas City High School in 1958.

Charles married Judy Lorraine Ainsworth on July 19, 1958, and they had six children; Son: Greg White, Son: David White, Daughter: Katherine Jean White (passed at birth). Son: Scott White, Daughter: Julie (White) Racy, and Son: Charles Lee White Jr.

Charles loved to work with his hands. He and Judy bought a 2-room house and later built this into one of the biggest homes in Birmingham, MO. Woodworking was always a great passion. After Charles retired, he would make many crafted wood items in his workshop.

Charles worked at Corn Products for a great number of years. And later worked as a foreman for the Concrete Union until he retired. Charles retired to Nemo, MO where his mother lived next door and sister lived on the other side.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents Santford and Lucille and sister Louise, grandsons Christopher Lee White and Thomas Ryan Crowley. He is survived by Greg White (Cindy) of Wimberley, Texas, David White of Independence, MO, Scott White (Christopher) of Denver, CO, Julie White Racy of Harrisonville, MO, and Charles White Jr. of Independence, MO. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren Matthew White (Amber), Benjamin White, Bethany White, Angie White, Amanda Crowley (Blake), Shawna Selzer (Ryan), Marissa Dillon (Joshua), Samantha Racy, David C. White, Autumn White, Sarah (White) Hayes (Eric), and Nicole White. 17 great-grandchildren: Charlotte, Judith, Kiara, Keegan, Raven, Alex, Bennett, August, Sophia, Brennen, Ethan, Cayden, Hendrix, Maysen, Alayna, Kayne, Kylar, Neves, and Lennon.

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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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Asian needle ant confirmed in Missouri

The Asian needle ant has now been confirmed in Missouri.

While small and easy to miss, this invasive species can deliver a painful sting and threaten local ecosystems by displacing native ant populations.

Knowing what to look for is the first step in helping slow its spread. Watch the video to learn why the Asian needle ant matters and how to identify it.

Learn more. Do more with MU Extension: https://brnw.ch/21x3Yxh

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Harrisonville to hold special meeting

The Harrisonville community is invited to attend a special meeting to discuss the results of Phase 2 of the Harrisonville Historic Architectural Survey and discuss the next steps for the program.

The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on Monday, July 13, in the Council Chambers at City Hall.

Individuals are invited to attend and ask questions, as we prepare to kick off Phase 3.

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