Closed session minutes, insurance concerns top subjects of Bates county commission meetings

August 10, 2026 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

Gayle Beachner and her daughter came in and sat down with the Commission, along with Chris Gach and Jami Page, County Clerk. Gayle asked about the report on John and asked about receiving a copy. The Commission told her that she cannot have a copy, as it was discussed and presented in a closed session. Gayle then informed them that Jim had told her that he would give her a copy. Jami left briefly to gather the Sunshine Law Statutes on Closed Meetings and read it to Gayle, informing her that anything in Closed Session is not public information. Gayle then stated that she felt it was wrong that John attended the meeting since he was the person they were discussing. She also told the Commission that she had spoken to Steve  Cohen with HR Solutions, and he told her she could have it as well.

Trent asked aloud if they needed to contact Ivan, the Commissions Attorney, and see what they need to do regarding this situation. They took Gayle's information and said they will contact her when they have heard from Ivan about how they should move forward.

August 12, 2026 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

The meeting with EMA regarding 911 Addressing was cancelled.

Chris Gach came to observe and attend any meetings that may take place.

Gary Ratliff spoke to the Commission about the HVAC unit at the Courthouse and the upcoming clock repair. He also updated them on Dewey’s Tree Service coming and removing trees from the courtyard.

Jim stated he was waiting to hear back from SHPO.

Jami Page, County Clerk, discussed NonStop Insurance with Jim. Trent and John joined in and discussed the different plans they could pick through NonStop Insurance. The Commission is supposed to have a decision made by September 1st. They discussed having the meeting with Elected Officials on Monday the 17th but decided that Wednesday the 19th would work better. Trent informed Chris that Sheriff Chad Andersons opinion on Insurance is important to the Commission since his office employs most of the county.

They explained they were choosing NonStop to pair with United Healthcare due to Blue Cross Blue Sheild not buying the County back and quoted a 40% increase.

Jami asked if the Commission was given a list that had everything that was in network, but they did not receive anything of the sort, so she called Charles Rush with Cooks Insurance. While Jami was on the phone with him, she asked him about proof of liability insurance due to them needing to have it to rent a lift for when they do the clock repair on the courthouse. Charles told her that he would prepare both for her.

The Commission then spoke about the Sunshine Request they received from Gayle Beachner. The Commission is looking into how to handle this properly. Jim has sent an email to their attorney, Ivan Schrader, and John stated he reached out to an attorney as well.

They discussed the Budget and what it would look like for all offices if they followed through and accepted NonStop Insurance.

John made a motion to pay CART Funds to the Townships that have their Contracts turned in. Trent seconded the motion. All were in favor. Motion passed. No opposition.

Gabe Gillette presented letters to the Commission regarding Mt. Pleasant Township.

John made a motion to accept Cierra’s resignation letter and to appoint Nancy Sutton as the new Mt. Pleasant Clerk. Trent seconded the motion. All were in favor. Motion carried. No opposition.

Gabe and the Commission then spoke over an Audit that Gabe heard was possibly happening. John explained to Gabe how the payment process works.

Gabe stated that he is hopeful that this will put the Township back on good standings.

Gabe informed John that he was unsure of where the rock tickets were and the affidavit and was still trying to figure out where they were so he could get them submitted to the Clerk’s Office.

Jami then reminded him about the Tax Levy papers she sent out. Gabe stated that he was under the impression that they had already been filled out and sent back, but Jami had yet to receive anything. Jami told him she would print another copy if he needed one, Gabe thought that was a great idea and when Jami presented him with another copy, he chose to fill it out right then and finish it before he left.

Gabe then continued speaking to the Commission and mentioned that he feels as if all the townships need a training course on how they should be running things, just to make sure they are doing everything correctly. He explained that when he first started and the Commission named some people he should talk to so he can get some pointers and guidance, he said that it was helpful, but he also realized that the way things were “passed down” were not the correct way they should be doing certain things.

Charles Rush, Cooks Insurance, met with the Commission and presented a list of providers and labs for the United Healthcare and NonStop Insurance.

Chris asked Charles if the employees could use the app to find what was in network. Charles thought that they could do so.

John asked Charles if he would be interested in joining the Elected Official meeting about the Insurance. Charles stated that he would be more than happy to come and answer questions.

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Obituary - Carl Black

Carl Leon Black, 90, of Prescott, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, August 18, 2026. He was born September 5, 1935, in Prescott, Kansas, to Clovie Lloyd and Edith Holmes Black. He graduated from Prescott High School with the Class of 1953. Carl worked as, and truly was, a cowboy. He ran cattle and raised horses the cowboy way. His interests included rodeo, Catahoula hounds, wolf hunting, and spending time with family. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Kay Black. Carl is survived by two daughters, Carla Black, and Cathy Hoover and husband Steve, his special friend Beverly Chandler, a “brother” Kyle Cummings, five grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren.

Graveside funeral service will be held 11 am Saturday, August 22, 2026 at the Prescott, Kansas Cemetery. Carl will lie in state from 10 am to 5 pm Friday, August 21, 2025 at the Schneider Funeral Home, Pleasanton Chapel. Memorial contributions are suggested to Fostering Connections, Lacy Nickelson, Founder, serving Linn County and Southeast Kansas. Contributions can be sent to Schneider Funeral Home, P.O. Box 525, Pleasanton, Kansas 66075. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.

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Obituary - Ronnie Johnson

Ronnie Johnson’s wishes were to be cremated and remembered with fond memories. There are no public services at this time. Arrangements are under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Contributions to the Esophageal Cancer Action Network in his honor. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Ronald “Ronnie” Dean Johnson died August 18, 2026 at his home in Butler, Missouri surrounded by his family. Ronnie was born September 5, 1964 in Clinton, Missouri to David Howard and Dolly Faye Allen Johnson.

Ronnie married Lisa Marie Erhart on January 28, 1984 in Clinton, Missouri. Together they raised two daughters, Samantha Joann and Amanda Sue. He loved fishing, hunting and playing pitch. His greatest joys were his grandchildren, Emma, Michaela, Riley and Sawyer.

Ronnie is preceded in death by his father, David; brother, Daniel; two sisters, Francis and Nancy; and in-laws, Bill and Joan Erhart. He is survived by his wife, Lisa of the home; daughters, Samantha Westmorland and Amanda Fleischer and husband Keith, all of Butler, Missouri; grandchildren, Emma Grace and Micaela LeeAnn Miller and Riley Edward and Sawyer Merle Fleischer; two sisters, Tina Howe (Wendel) and Rosie Butler; three brothers, David, Walter and Billy; mother, Dolly Butler; and aunts, nieces, nephews and friends.

To honor Ronnie’s memory the family asks that you take yourself fishin’.
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Obituary - Alvin Lee Yokley

Alvin Lee Yokley, 77, of Nevada, Missouri, passed away on August 18, 2026, following a short illness. Alvin was born November 15, 1948, to Fred and Wanda Yokley and grew up on the family farm outside of Sheldon, Missouri. His early years on the farm helped shape a life that would always be closely tied to hard work, agriculture, and the communities of southwest Missouri.

On January 16, 1976, Alvin married Vicki Yokley. Together, they made their home in Nevada, Missouri, where they built a life that spanned nearly five decades. Through all of life's seasons, Alvin and Vicki remained by one another's side until her passing in 2025.

Alvin's working life took him down several roads—quite literally at first. He spent his early career as an over-the-road truck driver, hauling commodities and other freight across the country. Later, he traded the highway for entrepreneurship, opening and operating a lube center in Nevada that served the local community.

In the years that followed, Alvin returned to work closely connected to the agricultural roots of his childhood, becoming a custom fertilizer applicator. He spent many years traveling the back roads and farm fields of southwest Missouri and southeast Kansas, working with farmers throughout the region. The work was demanding, but it suited a man accustomed to long days and proud of getting the job done.

Away from work, Alvin enjoyed playing cards and dominoes with family and friends, hunting and fishing, and going out for meals with the people he cared about. Around the card table, he could often be counted on to keep score, and over the years those simple gatherings became some of the moments everyone came to treasure.

More than anything, Alvin and Vicki cherished being grandparents. Being Nana and Papa to Cale and Ava was one of the greatest joys they shared together. Alvin was one of their biggest supporters and was a familiar presence at their games, activities, and milestones throughout the years. He was especially proud of Ava and loved watching her pitch and play softball. He treasured the everyday memories he made with both of them, whether fishing, playing cards, shooting off fireworks on the Fourth of July, taking trips together, or simply spending time with them. Cale and Ava always knew Papa was in their corner.

Alvin was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Wanda Yokley, and his loving wife, Vicki Yokley. He is survived by his son, Brian Yokley and wife Christy of Gardner, Kansas; his daughters, Amy and Carrie; his grandchildren, Cale and Ava; and his brothers, Dan Yokley of Neosho, Missouri, and Steve Yokley.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 27 at Ferry Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 28, at Ferry Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Brewer officiating. Interment will follow in Antioch Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the University of Kansas Medical Center in care of Ferry Funeral Home.

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Obituary - John Meredith Atwell

John Meredith Atwell, 83, of Pleasant Hill, MO, departed this life, Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Belton Regional Medical Center in Belton, MO. He was born December 12, 1942, in Independence, MO, to Guinn and Pauline Atwell. John grew up alongside his sister, Ginny Atwell, and graduated from school in El Dorado Springs, MO.

John married Shirley Walls on June 11, 1971, and together they raised three children: Debbie Callahan and her husband, Miller, of Harrisonville, MO; John Atwell Jr. and his wife, Miko, of Archie, MO; and Danny Atwell and his wife, Shelly, of Peculiar, MO. John later married Tammy Frock on October 15, 2011, and welcomed another daughter, Niki, into his family.

John was a proud grandfather of 12 grandchildren. They include Kyrie, Julianna, Bobby Jo, Ian, Kodee, Kole, Kaylee, Benjamin, Emma, Blayne, Connor and Abel.

John spent most of his working life as a truck driver. In his later years, he especially enjoyed working with adults with disabilities at Grand River Residential Services, LLC.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Guinn and Pauline Atwell; his sister, Ginny Atwell; his 1st wife of 35 years, Shirley Atwell; and his daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Miller Callahan.

John will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Tammy; his children, grandchildren, extended family, friends and all who knew him. His dedication, hard work, and love for his family will live on in the lives of those he loved.

Cremation with a Celebration of Life Service scheduled for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital.

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Attention Appleton City parents

IMPORTANT: NEW ELEMENTARY CAR RIDER PICK-UP ROUTE

Beginning this school year, Appleton City Elementary will have a NEW parent pick-up route for our car rider line.

- Cars will NO LONGER line up on 3rd Street by the Feed Store. We are making this change to provide a safer pick-up process for our students, staff, and parents and to improve traffic flow around the school.

- Please follow the NEW route shown on the map. Cars should enter the route from 5th Street and travel south on Garden Street. Cars will wait at the end of Garden Street and staff members will direct cars into the Elementary circle drive.

- Once you enter the circle drive, please pull ALL THE WAY FORWARD to the end of the circle drive or directly behind the vehicle in front of you. This will allow us to maximize the number of vehicles in the circle drive at one time and help keep the line moving efficiently.

- Staff members will be stationed along the route to direct traffic and assist families. Please remain in your vehicle and staff will send cars as space allows.

- IMPORTANT PARKING LOT CHANGE:

The back parking lot behind the school will be inaccessible to through traffic during the school day from 8:00 a.m.–2:45 p.m. Please plan accordingly and use an alternate route during these hours. Parking for the Elementary will still be available on the East side of the building.

We know a new traffic pattern may take a little time to get used to, and we greatly appreciate everyone's patience, cooperation, and attention to safety, especially during the first few days of school.

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Common Causes of Hair Thinning and What to Do About Them

Depending on the reason for your hair loss, there may be solutions that help.

Hair loss is something many people experience as they get older, but it can happen at almost any age. Both men and women may notice their hair becoming less full, their part widening or their hairline changing over time.

Finding hair in your brush, shower drain or on your pillow can be unsettling, but the good news is that hair thinning isn’t always permanent. In some cases, it can be slowed down or even reversed, depending on the cause. Understanding why it’s happening is the first step toward finding the right solution.

Here are some reasons that people may start losing hair.

Family History and Aging

One of the most common causes of hair thinning is genetics. This condition, often called pattern hair loss, affects both men and women. Men may notice a receding hairline or thinning at the crown of the head. Women often see overall thinning, especially along the part.

As people age, hair also naturally becomes finer and grows more slowly. While genetics can’t be changed, treatments may help slow hair loss and encourage new growth. Over-the-counter products containing minoxidil are commonly used. Prescription medications may also be an option for some people.

Stress and Illness

Major physical or emotional stress can sometimes trigger temporary hair shedding. This might happen after surgery, a serious illness, a high fever, significant weight loss or a stressful life event.

This type of hair loss often appears a few months after the stressful event. Although it can be alarming, the hair usually begins growing back once the body recovers and stress levels improve. Getting enough sleep, managing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support hair regrowth.

Poor Nutrition

Your hair needs nutrients to grow. Crash diets and rapid weight loss plans can sometimes lead to noticeable hair loss due to not getting enough protein, iron, zinc or certain vitamins.

Eating a balanced diet that includes lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats supports healthy hair growth. Talk to a healthcare provider before taking supplements.

Hormone Changes

Hormonal shifts can play a major role in hair thinning, especially in women. Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause and some medical conditions may affect hormone levels and hair growth. Men can also experience hormone-related hair loss.

A healthcare provider can help identify whether hormone changes are contributing to hair loss and discuss possible treatment options.

Medical Conditions and Medications

Some health conditions can cause hair thinning, including thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases and scalp conditions. Some medications may also contribute to hair loss, including some drugs used for blood pressure, depression, arthritis and other conditions.

If you notice hair thinning after starting a new medication, don’t stop taking it before talking with your healthcare provider about your concerns.

Hair Care Habits

Some styling practices can damage hair and lead to thinning over time. Tight ponytails, braids, extensions and frequent use of harsh chemicals or heat styling tools can put stress on the hair and scalp.

Treating hair gently may help reduce further damage. Consider limiting heat styling, avoiding overly tight hairstyles and using products designed for your hair type.

When to Seek Help

If hair thinning is sudden, severe or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare provider or dermatologist. They can identify the cause and recommend treatments that may improve hair growth or prevent further loss. The sooner the cause is identified, the more options may be available. While not every type of hair loss can be reversed, many people can improve the health and appearance of their hair.

Copyright 2026 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® Heart Healthy Recipes® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

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Urban Agriculture Cost-Share Grant Funds Available

Applications must be received by Sept. 15, 2026

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.) – The Missouri Department of Agriculture has announced the availability of Urban Agriculture Cost-Share Grant funds. A competitive grant program, the Urban Agriculture Cost-Share Grant will fund projects that demonstrate economic benefit and potential for sustainable revenue generation and job creation.

Examples of projects include developing small agribusinesses, implementing production infrastructure, creating direct distribution venues, developing agricultural workforce, or providing training and development skills for agricultural business sustainability. It may also include introducing a new crop or product to an area, expanding the use of an agricultural product or adding value to agricultural products.

The Department will award grants of up to $10,000 for reimbursement of eligible project expenses. Applicants will be reimbursed for up to 75% of the total project expenses made during the grant period. Applications are due by Sep. 15, 2026 and awarded projects must be complete or near completion by May 15, 2027.

Projects must be in an area that is designated as an urban area by the 2020 United States Census Bureau. If you have questions about your location qualifying, please reach out to the Agriculture Business Development Division at abd@mda.mo.gov or call (573) 751-4762.

The application, grant guidelines and more information can be found on the grant website.

To learn more about the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, please visit the Department’s website.

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