Belton officer placed on administrative leave

The Missouri State Highway Patrol recently notified the City of Belton of an alleged incident involving one of our officers that occurred prior to their employment with our agency.

Upon learning of the matter and the Highway Patrol’s investigation, the officer was immediately placed on administrative leave.

The safety of our community and upholding the integrity of the Belton Police Department and our entire organization remains our top priority.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is leading the investigation and all questions should be directed to their agency: https://bit.ly/4rj2pqb

State Farm Athlete of the Week

 

This week we are happy to be back at Butler High School to award senior, Eli Ferrell with the C&S graphics and State Farm athlete of the week. Eli was nominated by his head coach Zack Wicks. Coach Wicks stated “Eli returned to the mat this past week after a long and challenging journey following a tragic brain injury sustained this fall. Throughout his recovery Eli had worked tirelessly not only on his physical health, but also as a leader to his teammates. Even when he has been unable to compete he continues to push and encourage others, setting an example through his dedication and attitude.” We asked Eli to share a little about his journey back to the mat and he stated “it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but wrestling has taught me many things and one of those is to never give up. Don’t let anything hold you back from achieving your dreams and don’t let things get you discouraged.” We asked him what advice he would have for younger athletes. He stated “I went to a national camp this summer and heard a past Olympian state, we don’t simply rise to the occasion; we drop to the level of our training. It’s so true, and I realize it now after my injury even more than I did that day. You’re only as good as the training you put into it will allow you to be.” Eli isn’t fully decided what his next steps will be. He wants to continue to put in the work and help other athletes as well. His comeback to the mat is nothing short of a miracle, and we are so honored to celebrate this victory with him with this award. His hard work and determination will keep paying off and will continue to help him reach his goals.

Pictured left to right: Cody Morris, C&S Graphics; Eli Ferrell, son of Savannah Ferrell and Patrich Stewart; Kellie Davidson, State Farm; Head Wrestling Coach, Zack Wicks

Lady Bears Crowned Undefeated OHC Champs

By Cody Morris, Tailgate TV

Friday night was crowning night for the Butler Lady Bears.

After making waves all season long, the Lady Bears traveled to Warsaw with one goal in mind — close out conference play as undefeated champions. Four quarters later, the celebration was official.

Butler erupted for 24 points in the opening frame, setting the tone immediately. The early surge came from a balanced attack that saw all five starters record a basket in the first quarter alone. Georgia McCoun, Kadyn Cook and Gabbie Carmichael combined for four long-range shots in the opening period, stretching the floor and putting Warsaw on its heels.

While the offense was explosive, the defense was just as dominant. The Lady Wildcats were held to just eight points in the first quarter as Butler dictated tempo from the opening tip.

Holding a 24-8 advantage after one, the Bears never looked back.

Warsaw managed just one lone field goal and five total points in the second quarter. Butler’s defensive pressure limited clean looks and possessions, while the offense continued to cook, adding 18 more points to take a commanding 42-14 lead into halftime.

The third quarter brought more of the same. Butler extended the margin to 61-24 heading into the final eight minutes, and by that point the outcome was no longer in question. The buses were warming and the clock was rolling.

The Lady Bears secured the Ozark Highlands Conference title with a 65-37 rout, finishing conference play undefeated. Fifteen of Warsaw’s 37 points came in the fourth quarter as Butler eased off the pressure late.

Gabbie Carmichael led all scorers with 20 points. Kiersten Dubray added 15, and Kylee Dubray chipped in 11 as Butler once again showcased its depth and balance.

At 19-4 overall and perfect in conference play, this Butler squad has proven it can score, defend, and close. With postseason play on the horizon, the Lady Bears look every bit like a team built for a deep run.

To celebrate the BEARS WIN, C&S Graphics has agreed to give 15 PERCENT OFF SITE-WIDE when you use the code ‘BEARS15’ at checkout! Click here to shop their site now!

Photo by the talented Erin Dubray

Archie Courtwarming Royalty

 

Congratulations to Archie Courtwarming King Jackson Kash and Queen Astrid Hoegh-Larson. While the Archie boys fell to Harrisonville 52-84 on Friday, the Lady Whirlwinds were victorious over Harrisonville 34-32.

Friday basketball scores

Boys

El Dorado Springs 49
Adrian 45

Harrisonville 84
Archie 51

Pleasant Hill 57
Clinton 75

Ballard 29
Drexel 62

Montrose 45
Kingsville 75

East Newton 51
Nevada 58

Appleton City 60
Rich Hill 46

Butler 37
Warsaw 51

Girls 

Harrisonville 32
Archie 34

Climax Springs 51
Chilhowee 41

Sherwood 44
Holden 38

Osceola 58
Liberal 33

Windsor 23
Lincoln 34

Butler 65
Warsaw 37

El Dorado Springs 45
Adrian 51

MU Extension offers tips to avoid food waste

Looking to preserve garden produce, fish, or venison? Want to dehydrate fruit, cut food waste and save money?

Access the research-based, tested methods to help you safely preserve food at home. Access hands-on workshops, trusted guides, recipes and answers on canning, freezing, dehydrating and long-term storage.

Start learning today: https://brnw.ch/21wZVuw

Obituary - Patty Jo Elder

Patty Jo Elder, age 86, of Appleton City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, surrounded by love. She lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, and a deep sense of responsibility.

Patty was born on October 1, 1939, in Appleton City to Leroy and Faye Gregg. She carried with her strong pride in doing things the right way, a value that guided her throughout her life and left a lasting impression on those who knew her. She spent her entire life in Appleton City and Montrose, Missouri, building deep roots in the community she loved.
She married the love of her life, Jim Elder, in 1956. Together they built a strong and loving home grounded in faith and family, raising two daughters, Tricia Lee and Tamberla Faye.
Patty was spunky, opinionated, and expected the very best from herself and others. She owned and operated her own beauty shop for 18 years, faithfully serving her clients and forming lasting friendships. Later, she and Jim opened Elder RV Sales and Accessories, building a successful business together and continuing their shared work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.
She was a devoted Christian and longtime member of Holy Trinity Church of Appleton City. Her faith remained a steady foundation throughout her life.
Patty was a wonderful cook who found joy in preparing large meals for family gatherings and celebrations, making sure no one ever left her table hungry. She loved gardening, especially tending to her flowers, and enjoyed shopping and spending time with those she loved most.
Patty and Jim shared a love of travel and explored extensively over the years, often bringing their grandchildren along to create lasting memories. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were among her greatest joys, and she took pride in watching her family grow.
Patty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jim Elder; her parents, Leroy and Faye Gregg; her sister, Marvine; and her son-in-law, Jeff Cook.
Patty is survived by her daughters, Tricia Evans and her husband, Mark Evans; and Tamberla “Tami” Cook; her grandchildren, Tyler Evans and his wife, Katie Evans (and their son, Asher Evans), Brit Kenny and her husband, Nick Kenny (and their children, Aubrey and Bowen), and Cassidy Biship and her husband, Zech Biship; along with extended family and dear friends who will forever cherish her strength, warmth, and unwavering love.
A graveside service will be held at the Appleton City Cemetery on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Church of Appleton City. (Formerly United Methodist Church)
Her legacy of hard work, high standards, and devotion to family will continue to live on in each of them.

Obituary - Jake Lee Jacobs

Jake Lee Jacobs age 16 of Harrisonville, Missouri departed this life Thursday, February 12, 2026 at Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri surrounded by love and family. 

Cremation with a celebration of life are pending and will be posted once that information becomes available. 

A complete obituary will be posted once that information becomes available, courtesy Dickey Funeral Home.