Some statistics regarding Missouri's aging workforce

Missouri is experiencing the effects of the baby boomer generation entering retirement, reshaping the state’s workforce

One way to track this shift is through the labor force participation rate of prime-age workers ages 25 to 54, which measures the share of this group that is working or actively seeking work. This group typically has the highest participation and makes up about two-thirds of Missouri’s workforce.

Metropolitan counties continue to see stronger participation, averaging 86%, compared to 78% in nonmetropolitan areas.

From 2015 to 2024, Missouri’s prime-age workforce declined by more than 38,000 workers, about a 2% decrease. Some industries, like agriculture, are feeling this shift more than others, with more than one-third of workers age 55 or older.

Higher participation rates are generally found in western Missouri and along the Missouri and Mississippi river corridors. At the same time, late-career workers are making up a larger share of the workforce, accounting for 38% in 2024, up from 29% in 2015.

Read the full Missouri Economy Indicators brief: https://extension.missouri.edu/.../MissouriEconomy...


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Butler city-wide cleanup information

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Johnson County Sheriff’s Office provides update regarding shooting incident

WARRENSBURG, MO – The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office is providing an update regarding the investigation into the shooting incident that occurred in the early morning hours of May 1st, involving a juvenile victim and a subsequent deputy-involved shooting.

Status of the Victim

The Sheriff’s Office can confirm that the 17-year-old juvenile, who was discovered with a gunshot wound inside a vehicle near the intersection of Highway 131 and US Highway 50, has been released from the hospital. The individual is continuing their recovery at home. Out of respect for the minor's privacy, no further details regarding their medical status will be released.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation into the initial shooting of the juvenile remains active. Detectives are continuing to conduct interviews to establish a full timeline of the events leading up to the discovery of the victim.

Upon completion of the investigation, the case file will be submitted to the Johnson County Prosecutor’s Office for a formal review of the facts.

Background on the Incident

On the morning of the incident, Johnson County deputies requested assistance from the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office and the Odessa Police Department to locate a suspect fleeing on foot from the initial shooting scene who was reported to be armed. Upon locating the suspect, a Lafayette County deputy discharged their duty weapon. The 19-year-old suspect involved in that encounter was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

As per standard protocol, the investigation into the deputy-involved shooting is being handled by the Missouri State Highway Patrol (Division of Drug and Crime Control) as an investigation separate from the initial assault on the juvenile.

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Ellett Memorial Hospital Employee of the Month

We are pleased to announce William (Bo) Ramsey – Lab Technician as our Ellett Memorial Hospital May 2026 Employee of the Month!

Bo’s write-up is below to share some of the ways he has shown his HEART and DEDICATION:

This employee is always friendly to everyone they meet- staff, patients and visitors. They go above and beyond when asked to do something and never complains. This person is a true blessing to EMH and Appleton City!

H(onesty) – Consistently arrives to work on time and works diligently while on shift.

E(mpathy) – Is compassionate when dealing with patients and co-workers.

A(ccountability) – Consistently takes responsibility for their actions.

R(espect) – Refuses to speak negatively about others.

T(eamwork) – Willing to work extra shifts when needed.

Bo is an amazing co-worker. He is always eager to find ways to improve processes that make it easier on staff to perform their duties, but also improve patient safety. Bo is always willing to work on special projects that better the facility such as creating spreadsheets that calculate values and deviations as welll as taking Biohazard waste out to assembling cabinets. He is always willing to help out all departments regardless the task. Bo is a wonderful person and a true asset to Ellett Memorial Family!

Thank you Bo for the amazing job you do!

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Harrisonville City-wide Clean Up is this Saturday

The spring Harrisonville City-wide Clean Up is this Saturday, May 9, at the GFL facility located at 22820 MO-291 Highway. Gates will open at 8 a.m. and close at 4 p.m.

The event is open to Harrisonville residents only.

This event is open to all items EXCEPT: electronic waste, hazardous waste (oil, batteries, chemicals, paint, etc), tires and automotive parts, brush or fallen tree limbs, appliances with freon and bulk construction materials.

A $20 fee will be charged to dispose of large appliances.

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Obituary - Clyde Edward “Ed” Louvier

 Clyde Edward “Ed” Louvier, 74, Nevada, MO passed from this life on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, MO following a brief illness. Ed was born in Kansas City, MO to Bobby L. Louvier, Sr. and Louise (Black) Louvier. He married Kathy Williams on May 12, 1972 in Rich Hill, MO and she survives of the home.

     Ed grew up in Kansas City and Rich Hill. He graduated from Rich Hill High School Class of 1970.  He worked for the City of Nevada for 26 years in the Wastewater Department until his retirement. Ed attended the Assembly of God Church in Lamar. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and hunting with his son, William. Most of all he loved spending time with his family.

     In addition to his wife Kathy, survivors include two children: a son William Louvier (Dava), Nevada, and a daughter, Annie Louvier, Nevada; five grandchildren, (twins) Katie and Allie, Haley, Brett, and Kendra; great-grandchildren, Kamrie, Kenadie, Gannon, Mila, Ivy, Brynley, David, Darren and two on the way; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; as well as several; brothers and sisters-in-law.   

      ***  The Louvier family announcing to family and friends hoping you’ll join us May 16, 2026, to celebrate Clyde Edward (Ed) Louvier’s extraordinary life. He touched so many lives with his kindness, humor and spirit. Let’s gather together to remember, laugh, cry and celebrate the gift of knowing him.

     Dress comfortably and bring your favorite memories to share. For the family there will be a lunch served at the church immediately following the celebration.  Services will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Lamar First Assembly Church, 1200 Mill Street, Lamar, Missouri.

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Obituary - James Rhea

James “Coach” Craig Rhea of Appleton City, passed away peacefully, in the presence of family Sunday, May 3rd, 2026, at age 78.

Jim was born on August 29, 1947, in Bethany, to, Alice Ruth King and James Craig Rhea Sr. He grew up in Mt Moriah, MO. He excelled at basketball, and played in college at Highland, KS, before transferring to play at NCMC, in Trenton, MO. After, a year there, he put away his basketball and finished his bachelor's degree from Northwest Missouri State.

Jim married his high school sweetheart, Dianne McGinness, on October 15, 1966. To this union, two children were born: Darren and Tera. Two more sons, Jon and Jason McGinness, were welcomed into the family following the loss of Dianne's brother.

In 1972, Jim moved to Appleton City to take a women’s coaching position. The following year, the boys’ basketball coaching job became available, and he decided to stay—continuing to coach while becoming a dedicated part of the community. Throughout his career, he taught health, physical education, psychology, and driver’s education. Committed to education and leadership, Jim later returned to school to earn his master’s and specialist degrees, going on to serve as a principal and superintendent at Roscoe School.

In his spare time, Jim enjoyed fishing, cookouts, photography, and spending time with his family.

Jim was preceded in death by both of his parents, his beloved wife, Dianne Rhea, and his brother, John Rhea.

He is survived by his sisters, Jane Fordyce, of Ridgeway, MO, and Jeanne (Dwight ) Hamilton of Mt Moriah, MO.; his daughter Tera Payne (Tracy ) of Appleton City, MO; , his sons, Darren Rhea ( Shari), of Cassville, MO; Jon McGinness (Becky), of Plattsburg, MO, and Jason McGinness; his grandchildren, Kayleigh Mayo (Matt) of Appleton City, Brennan Minks (Kristie), of Warrensburg, MO and Conner Minks, of Warrensburg, MO; Kyle Rhea (Shannon) of Branson, MO, Kris Rhea, of Cassville, Jayden McGinness of Platte City, MO, and Landon McGinness of Kansas City; and his great-grandchildren, Asher, Alex and Arthur (AJ) Mayo of Appleton City, MO and Tillie and Hadley Rhea of Branson, MO.

MEMORIALS - AC Booster Club

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Obituary - Patricia Shell

Patricia Josephine Helen Shell, 85, of Butler, Missouri, passed away on Monday, May 4, 2026, at her home surrounded by family. Per her wishes, no services are scheduled at this time.

A complete obituary will be posted when it is available, courtesy Atkinson Funeral Home.

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