Your weekend planner...

Thursday
Bates County Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Open House 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday
Card Night at the Butler Senior Center starts at 6 p.m.

Saturday
Christmas in the Country- Appleton City (all day)
Bates County Elks Hoop Shoot at the Butler Elementary school gym starts at 9 a.m.

Sunday
"The Inn Keeper of Bethlehem" Ohio Street UMC in Butler with performances at 8:15 and 10:30 a.m.
Holiday Open House at the Drexel Community Building 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Butler Christmas Homes Tour starts at 1 p.m.
9th Annual Holiday Remembrance Program at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel 2 to 4 p.m.


If we've missed something, drop us an email at bateswire@hotmail.com. See our Community Calendar page for more details on these events.

Boil order issued-revised

A boil order was issued this afternoon for District #6 customers living on East Dakota Street in Butler.

An order means water is contaminated and you are asked to boil all drinking water and cooking water for at least 3 minutes. Throw away all ice cubes and empty your ice cube trays. Add one tablespoon of Clorox to all dish washing water.

The length of order is unknown at this time, we will advise when it is lifted.

Customers with Butler water are not under the boil order.

-courtesy FM 92.1 the Bullet

Fox 4 reports on Don Harman passing

Don Harman, a beloved meteorologist and personality on the FOX 4 morning show passed away Tuesday evening. To all of us, Don was like family, and the news comes as a great shock to all the folks he worked with here at FOX 4.

President and General Manager Cheryl McDonald said “We are very saddened by this tragic loss. Don wasn’t just our Meteorologist, he was a part of our family and we loved him. Words cannot express how deeply he will be missed.”

Don brightened our mornings for more than 10 years and he made his mark on Kansas City television. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, and we ask that in this time of sorrow that you respect them and their need for privacy in their moment of grief.

Courtesy of Fox 4 News

2011 Coats for Kids drive 'a huge success'

The Coats for Kids drive was a huge success... this year's goal has been met and those who have donated are being sent a very special 'Thank You'. The coats have been purchased and children in Bates County will be warmer thanks to your kindness.

Larry and Carol Ann Winburn along with the office of DSWA in Butler would like to thank everyone who donated as each person has been entered in a contest to win prizes. The drawing will be held Dec. 16th and winners will be contacted by phone.

-courtesy FM 92.1 the Bullet

Chance of freezing precip Saturday night...

Today
Sunny. Highs in the lower 50s. South winds 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight
Mostly clear. Lows around 30. South winds around 10 mph.

Saturday

Rain in the morning...then rain likely in the afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. Chance of precipitation 80 percent.

Saturday Night

Rain likely in the evening...then a chance of rain and freezing rain after midnight. Lows in the lower 30s. Chance of precipitation 60 percent.

Suspect description released in hunter stabbing near Drexel

The Cass County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's help in identifying the suspect in the assault on a Drexel man. The victim, Brent A. Scott, 41, Drexel, stated that he was deer hunting on the morning of November 25 when he was approached by a man described as white, 5'9, 250lbs, approximately 30 years old, stocky build, with shaggy brown hair.

Investigators are working with Mr. Scott to develop a composite sketch to be released later.

Anyone with information on this case should contact the Cass County Sheriff's Office at 816-380-5200.

Appleton City 'Christmas in the Country' this Saturday

The community of Appleton city will host a Christmas in the country this Saturday December 3rd. The event will feature several holiday activities , such as a home tour, handmade arts and crafts by local artisans. The Appleton City Library will be open with refreshments and a tickets will be for sale to get you in the drawing to win gift baskets, savings bonds and a handmade quilt by Wanda Alexander. The drawing will be held at 11 am.

The FFA Green house will be open in the house west of the Appleton City High School gym. There will be a bake sale starting at 9 am at 116 South Maple Street, The Kreisler’s county Pharmacy will host an open house from 9 to noon, Petals West will be open for a Holiday Open House from 9 am till 3 pm with door prizes and refreshments.

The Farm House Kitchen invites you in for a complementary cup of spiced apple cider, hot chocolate or coffee. Three Wishes in Appleton City will be open for the , “ Christmas in the Country” holiday celebration. Featuring original mosaics, original art and unique creations, the Hudson Hustlers 4-H Club, will host a potato bar lunch from 11 to 1 pm.

Santa will be in the Appleton City Park from 4 to 5 pm, a ham and bean and chili and soup supper at 5 pm until 8:30 at the Appleton city Christian Church 100 south chestnut, Live holiday music from 5:45 to 7:15.

-courtesy FM 92.1 the Bullet

Obituary - David Carrel

David R. Carrel, 55 formerly of Branson, Mo., passed away November 29, 2011 in Butler surrounded by family.

Cremation, with memorial services 5:00 PM Saturday, December 3, 2011 under the direction of the Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler (660) 679-0009 with Pastor Ron Dunlap officiating. Visitation 4-5:00 PM at the funeral home.

A complete obituary will be posted when that information becomes available.

Written messages and memories may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

Obituary - Margaret Shobe

Funeral services for Margaret Shobe will be 2 p.m. Thursday, December 1, 2011 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Visitation will be prior to services from 1-2 p.m. at Schowengerdt Chapel. Burial in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler. Contributions to Family.

Margaret Shobe, age 84 of Butler, Missouri died November 28, 2011 at Bates County Memorial Hospital in Butler. She was born July 17, 1927 to Oliver and Vernes Sweets Shobe in Lincoln, Missouri.

Margaret is survived by a son, Willard Shobe of Butler, Missouri; a daughter, Kathleen Shaw and husband Patrick of Kansas City, Kansas; one brother, Levi Shobe of Sedalia, Missouri; three grandchildren, Margaritta Ratliff, Jackqueline Mitchell and Bradley Shobe; and five great-grandchildren, Anthony, Antione, Dollar, Kurious and Adyson. She was preceded in death by her parents; twin sister, Fannie Frances Buckner; and one brother, Ervin Shobe.

Butler Police Department weekly report

Nov. 22 - Medical assist in the 600 block of W. Pine; keep the peace in the 500 block of N. Delaware; keep the peace on Cedar Lane; animal complaint in the 400 block of S. High.

Nov. 23 - Property damage at the new Walmart; suspicious vehicle at Schowengerdt's storage; theft call in the 200 block of S. High; stolen license plate report taken; prowler call in the 200 block of S. Willow.

Santa's helpers in Rich Hill...

The community of Rich Hill will be collecting gifts of toys and money for the children in Rich Hill this Christmas season.

Wanda and Ruth are spearheading the collection for Santa. The drop off location will be at the Security Bank of Rich Hill.

Thursday December 15th will be the last day to donate and submit names.

Your help with Christmas season will be appreciated by children in need in the community of Rich Hill.

-courtesy FM 92.1 the Bullet

Small house fire in Butler this evening

At 5:10 p.m. the Butler Fire Department was summoned on a report of a fire at a residence at 214 S. Mechanic street. The exact cause and extent of damages is unknown at this time, however it appears to have been a small fire and was quickly brought under control.

More information will be posted after an official report from Chief Jim Henry is made available.

American Cancer Society Day Dec. 5th at BCMH

Rich Hill PD weekly report

Rich Hill Police Department Activity Report

November 21, 2011 to November 27, 2011

11-21-2011

 

11-22-2011

AMBULANCE REQUEST

ANIMAL AT LARGE

 

11-23-2011

 

11-24-2011

ALARM BURGLAR

 

11-25-2011

CARELESS & IMPRUDENT DRIVING

 

11-26-2011

 

11-27-2011

Bates County Sheriff's Department activity report

Bates County Sheriff’s Office Activity Report

November 21, 2011 to November 27, 2011

11-21-2011

ANIMAL AT LARGE-Adrian

BURGLARY-Butler Deputies responded to Route 4 reference to a burglary.

SPEAK TO OFFICER-Butler

SPEAK TO OFFICER-Amsterdam

TRESPASSING-Amsterdam Deputies responded to a trespassing in Amsterdam.

THEFT-Butler deputies took a walk in report of checks being stolen from a vehicle.

THREATS - VERBAL, PHONE OR BY MAIL-Amsterdam

ANIMAL AT LARGE-Adrian

CHECK WELL BEING-Butler Deputies responded to a trespassing in Amsterdam.

STRANDED MOTORIST-Rich Hill

 

Butler Bears Fall Sports Summary

Front Row L to R:  Senior Brian Todd, Junior Tanner McGuire, 

Senior Cale Diehl, Junior Kolten Kauffman, Junior Trey Mareth

Back Row L to R: Senior Stacy Davenport, Senior Nick Hulse, 

Junior  Aaron  Fritts, Senior Kyle Martin, Senior Joe Strauch, 

Not Pictured Antonio Valenci

2011 Football Season Summary

The 2011 Butler Bears football team had an outstanding season, finishing with a record of 10 wins and 2 losses. The Bears won the Class 2 District 13 championship and finished 2nd in the Crossroads Conference. The only 2 losses on the season came to Class 3 Imagine Renaissance Academy, and in the Sectional playoff game to the Higginsville Huskers; the eventual state runner-up.

The Bears were led by a great group of 11 seniors, who were not only very good players, but also outstanding leaders. Those seniors include, Brian Todd, Michael Coy, Michael Keener, Nick Hulse, Austin Shatto, Cale Diehl, Stacy Davenport, Kyle Martin, Austin Fix, Joe Strauch, and Antonio Valencia.

Butler Christmas Homes Tour this Sunday

The Butler High School Junior Class will host a Christmas homes tour this Sunday, December 4th from 1 to 5 p.m.

The following homes will be open for the tour:

Home #5:
Jay, Kellie, Jesse & Justen Waters
Rt. 3 Box 138 B
52 West (approx 5 miles), first road to the right past the City Lake, rd #5001. We are the third driveway on right. You can't see the house from the road; green mailbox, green gate.

Home # 4:
Johnny and Teresa Teeman
1 Overbrook Dr.

Home #3:
Kenny and Mistie Kauffman
Directions: Go North on Business 71 and then turn left on TT. Take the 1st gravel road on the right (Divide Road). It is the 2nd house on the left.

Home #2:
Darin and Sheila Jones
Rt. 1, Box 685
Directions: Follow East Dakota Street out approximately 1.5 miles to 2533 Rd. Turn south (right) following the hill up. We are the second house on the east (left) side of the road.

Home #1:
Robert and Laura Fritts
Directions: take 52 Hwy one mile west of 71 Hwy to NW 2001 (Wright Road), turn south (left). Go South one mile and the pavement will end, our house is the second on the right (west side) after the pavement ends.

Cost for the tour is $10 per person to see all the homes. You may tour the homes in any order you choose.

-our thanks to FM 92.1 the Bullet

Toys for Tykes registration ends December 1st

Toys for Tykes sponsored by Max Motors and Community First Bank of Butler sets a goal each year of making sure that every child has a gift to open on Christmas morning. Donations are now being accepted as 300 children are currently registered with the Bates County Outreach Center, ranging in age from birth to 16 years. You may register your children to receive gifts at the Community First Bank in Butler through this Thursday, Dec. 1st. 

If you would like to donate items for the program, the deadline is Dec. 15th and items may be dropped off at the following locations:

Community First Bank, West Branch in Butler
McBee's in Amsterdam
Food Fair in Rich Hill
Pizza Hut in Butler
Security Bank of Rich Hill
Max Motors
Hume schools
Miami schools
Walmart in Butler
Adrian Bank in Butler
Dollar Stores in Adrian and Butler
Casey's on Orange st. in Butler
Casey's in Adrian
Yoss Thriftway in Adrian
Adrian ManorButler elementary school
O'Reilly's in Butler

The date for the gift distribution will be announced later.

Obituary - Mary Barnhill

Funeral services for Mary E. Barnhill will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, November 30, 2011 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 5-7 p.m. at Schowengerdt Chapel. Burial in Virginia Cemetery, Virginia, Missouri. Contributions to American Cancer Society.

Mary Eileen Barnhill, age 87 of Amoret, Missouri died Saturday, November 26, 2011 surrounded by her loving family. She was born September 27, 1924 to Marion Grover and Olive Ellen Judy Hedger in Amsterdam, Missouri.

Mary is survived by two sons, Wayne Barnhill Jr. and wife Margie of Independence, Missouri and M. Richard Barnhill; one daughter, Marilyn Lindsay and husband Carl of Amoret, Missouri; four sisters, Anna May Baker of Columbia, Missouri, Ellen Baker of Independence, Missouri, Etha Pearl Black of Butler, Missouri and Joan Luttrell and husband Lowell of Butler, Missouri; 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Wayne Barnhill Sr.; an infant brother; and one sister, Catherine Taylor.

Obituary - Ken Hill

Funeral services for Ken Hill will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri with Pastor Eldon Allen officiating. Visitation will be Monday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Schowengerdt Chapel. Burial in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, Missouri. Contributions to Children's Center or March of Dimes.

Kenneth Eugene Hill, age 60 of Butler, Missouri died Sunday, November 27, 2011 at Bates County Memorial Hospital in Butler. He was born January 23, 1951 to Kenneth Leroy and Josie Arlene Allen Hill in Butler.

Ken is survived by his wife, Janice Lynn Hill of Butler, Missouri; one son, Jeff Hill and wife Brandi of Butler, Missouri; his parents, Kenneth and Josie Hill of Amsterdam, Missouri; two brothers, Ronnie Hill and wife Anna of Linn Valley, Kansas and Lonnie Hill and wife Sandy of Independence, Missouri; one sister, Onda Armentrout and husband Phil of Amsterdam, Missouri; and one grandson, Kenton Hill.

Jill Berry pleads guilty in theft from Bates County water districts

Valerie Jill Berry, 36, of Butler has been sentenced in Federal Court from charges stemming in an embezzlement case where she allegedly stole a total of $75,813 from Bates County Public Water Supply Districts #1 and #6 over a 7 year period.

Berry plead guilty to the charges in the six count indictment which included mail fraud, in the theft that occurred between 2001 and 2008 while working as a clerk for the water districts in Butler. Berry was accused of stealing cash payments and submitting fraudulent reports to the state auditors in order to conceal the thefts.

Berry's sentencing includes 5 years Federal probation, 6 months home detention, payment of a $600 special assessment and restitution of money taken from the two water districts.

News from Adrian Lanes

Adrian Lanes

Your Local Recreation Center

BOWLING NEWS

Through November 26,  2011

Handicap Travel League

Plunkett Bowl 126.5-053.5

Westchester 124.0-056.0

Capri Bowl 088.0-092.0

Jesters House 085.5-094.5

Windsor Lanes 083.5-096.5

Strike Zone 073.0-107.0

Adrian Lanes 2 072.5-107.5

Adrian Lanes 1 067.0-113.0

    Nov 20: Butler:  1^st Set:  Joel Robbins 257, Josh Yates 243, Brian Nelson 231.  Series: Luke Feeback 646, Josh Yates 637, Keith Mayer 636.  2^nd Set: Brian Allen 278, Cody Elpers 257, Doug Vergouven 250, Nick Perkins 237, Josh Yates 230.  Series: Doug Vergouven 703, Brian Allen 642.  Next Month: Dec 15, Capri Bowl, Nevada.

Sun 1:30pm Youth-Adult

Just Us 24.0-16.0

Colby’s Team 24.0-08.0

Dustin’s Team 23.0-17.0

CEA 09.0-23.0

    Nov 20: High Game: Ray Bullock 229, Jamie Mayabb 147, Billy Wisner 147, Colby Bullock 146, Cory Bullock 136, Dustin Mayabb 104.  High Series:  Ray Bullock 637, Colby Bullock 366, Cory Bullock 366.

Rich Hill woman injured in Montgomery County

A three car accident resulted in minor injuries for two persons, including a Rich Hill woman yesterday morning on I-70 near mile marker 182 in Montgomery County. Jennifer Tourtillott, 47, of Rich Hill was a passenger in a 2009 Pontiac driven by Madison Bock, 20, of Columbia that struck the rear of another vehicle that had slowed in the roadway.

Tourtillott and a passenger in another vehicle were transported by ambulance to St. Joseph's Hospital West in St. Louis for treatment of minor injuries.

Occupants of the other vehicles involved were not injured.

News Video - Adrian Christmas Parade 2011

Attention local merchants...

Bates County Live is dedicated to providing low cost advertising to our local merchants- we have rates as low as $15 (up to $90) a month. Currently we are getting about 90,000 visits to our home page per month means that your ad will get lots of exposure. Plus it may be seen on Facebook and in our RSS and email feeds as well.

Just this week, we implemented our local coupon program where readers may download and print coupons designed just for our local merchants- a great way to promote hometown shopping for the holidays!

Ready to get started? Just drop us an email at bateswire@hotmail.com or call 913-669-5848 and we can have your ad/coupon program up and going right away!

Adrian man injured on 71 highway this morning

A 2006 Ford hydroplaned on 71 highway this morning, causing the driver to lose control and leave the roadway which resulted in minor injuries to the driver Cynthia L. Heckadon, 51 of Archie. Also injured was passenger Darrel B. Heckadon, 19 of Adrian.

After leaving the roadway, the vehicle slid down an embankment and struck a tree. The accident happened just North of the Grand River Bridge around 6:40 a.m.

Trooper Wright of the Missouri Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by the Central Cass Fire Department. The MSHP report indicates that both occupants of the vehicle were wearing seat belts at the time of the accident.

Thank you...

The Bates County Shrine Club wants to thank the following merchants and individuals who contributed to the Ararat 2011 Shrine Circus. Your contributions help insure local and surrounding area school children a chance to see a wonderful circus.

Caskey Law Firm

Osage Valley Electric

Community First Bank

Cook Insurance

Atkinson Funeral Home

Yoss brothers

Stotmeister family

Quality Home

Sutton Construction

Nordyke Law Firm

Country Mart

Adrian Bank
Umstattd Investment

Ron Phillips

Farm Risk Management

Heiman Agri Services

Medicalodge

Midwest Lumber

Ed Yoder

Hatten and Hatten

Citizen's Bank

In Home Decorating
Marlene Wainscott

Noe, Miller & Miller

Butler Saddle Club

Thinking about a career change?

Application packets are now available for the Harrisonville EMT Basic Course which will be offered starting Dec. 12. 

The course will run from Dec. 12 through April 12. Classes will be held at Emergency Services Headquarters, 903 S. Commercial, on Mondays and Thursday evenings, from 6:30-10:30 p.m. In addition, there will be someSaturday classes which will run from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.

To be considered, application materials must be returned by Dec. 5, 2011. Tuition is $900 which includes the book, workbook and state practical fee.

For additional information please contact Captain Eric Myler, 380-8927. Applications can be picked up at Harrisonville Emergency Services, 903 S. Commercial.

-courtesy FM 92.1 the Bullet

Rain today, much cooler starting tomorrow..

Today
Cloudy...breezy. Showers early in the morning...then a chance of showers late in the morning. Slight chance of showers early in the afternoon. Highs in the lower 50s. Northwest winds 15 to 25 mph. Chance of precipitation 90 percent.

Tonight

Mostly cloudy. A 20 percent chance of rain in the evening. Lows in the lower 30s. Northwest winds 15 to 20 mph with gusts to around 30 mph.

Circuit Court news

CIRCUIT COURT OF BATES COUNTY, COURT NEWS

JAMES K JOURNEY, JUDGE

Diana L Rich, Clerk

Nov 21 – 25, 2011

St v. Stephen William Snyder, Felony unlawful use of a weapon, guilty plea, sentenced to 3 years in MDOC, given SES, placed on probation for 5 years, Defe. To pay court costs, shall attend and successfully complete any counseling/treatment as directed, shall be subject to random drug testing, random home/vehicle searches, shall perform 200 hours of community service.

St v. David W McKinney, Jr., probation revoked, previous sentence of 4 years in MDOC is invoked, 120 day call back option.

Obituary - Earl Schapeler

Funeral services for Earl Schapeler will be 1 p.m. Monday, November 28, 2011 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri with Pastor Ron Dunlap officiating. Visitation will be Sunday evening from 6-7 p.m. at Schowengerdt Chapel. Burial in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, Missouri. Contributions to Happy Hill Church of God or Heartland Hospice.

Earl Marvin Schapeler, age 84 of Butler, Missouri died Thursday, November 24, 2011 at his home in rural Butler. He was born July 27, 1927 to Henry Joseph and Rosa Augusta Lee Schapeler in Prairie City, Missouri.

Earl is survived by his wife Areta Lucille Schapeler of Butler, Missouri; one son, Wayne Schapeler and wife Josephine of Butler, Missouri; one daughter, Janice Schapeler of Butler, Missouri; two granddaughters, Melinda Stahl and husband Heath of Olathe, Kansas and Melissa Mehlhaff and husband Dan of Edgerton, Kansas; five great-grandchildren, Emma, James and Kristen Stahl and Sadie and Samuel Mehlhaff. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Vernon Schapeler; one sister, Marie Higgins; and a niece, Rose Mary Higgins Fels.

Deer hunter stabbed near Drexel this morning

The Cass County Sheriff's office is investigating after a deer hunter reported he had been stabbed in a wooded area near Drexel this morning.

The sheriff's office said it received a 9-1-1 call at about 9:30 a.m. from the hunter who said he had been stabbed by an unknown person.

Deputies and the Drexel Fire Department responded to a wooded area about a mile North of town near East 341st Street and State Line Road where they found a 41-year-old victim in a field who appeared to have been stabbed, police said.

The victim was flown to a Kansas City area hospital for treatment. He is expected to recover, according to police.

The sheriff's office has not yet released any suspect information.

November deer harvest tops last year’s figure

Missouri’s robust deer herd continues to pump millions into the state’s economy annually and supports 11,000 Show-Me State jobs.

JEFFERSON CITY–Hunters checked 190,089 deer during Missouri’s 11-day November firearms deer hunt, slightly surpassing last year’s figure despite a slow start on opening weekend.

Extremely windy weather, combined with reduced deer populations in some areas, dropped the opening-weekend harvest 10,000 below the 2010 figure. Hunters persevered, however, and more than made up lost ground in the following nine days of the November hunt. In the end, they harvested 1,884 more than last year, a 1-percent increase.

Obituary - Karen Hurt

Cremation memorial services for Karen Hurt will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, November 30, 2011 at the Butler First Baptist Church under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler. There is no visitation. Inurnment in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, Missouri.

Karen Faye Hurt, age 58 of Butler, Missouri died Tuesday, November 22, 2011 at her home in Butler. She was born August 6, 1953 to Gordon and Laura Resz Mathis in Butler.

Karen is survived by her husband, Dennis Hurt of Butler, Missouri; one son, Anthony Lawrence of Butler, Missouri; one brother, Victor Mathis of Texas; and two sisters, Judy and Rhonda.

Coats still needed for Coats for Kids program...

The annual Coats for Kids Program is sponsored this year by DSWA C.P.A Firm, John Daniel, Renda Armstrong and B.C. Wolfe, who have teamed up with Larry and Carol Ann Winburn to make the Coats for Kids drive a success again this year.

Donations are being accepted now for the purchase of approximately 200 coats for grade school children in the Bates County area, which encompasses 8 different schools and 4 Head Start programs. The proceeds are kept local as all coats are purchased from local merchants.

Donations may be sent to the DSWA office at PO box 190 or sent directly to Larry and Carol Ann Winburn at 109 Ranch Drive in Butler 64730.

Thanksgiving is all about giving back...

Jeremy Short, Marissa Moore, Beth Short, David Hopkins 

and Judge Debra Hopkins

Thanks to Judge Debra Hopkins, her husband David and other members of her family, many shut ins and people not able to travel or cook and have the opportunity to not be alone at Thanksgiving had a wonderful meal served to them. 

The Hopkins family served lunch at the Senior Center on Thanksgiving Day, with 84 lunches delivered and according to Judge Hopkins, approximately 100 people were served lunch. 12 turkeys were cooked and served as well as the rest of the trimmings that go with Thanksgiving.

Thank you for providing a wonderful meal to those in need.

-courtesy FM 92.1 the Bullet

Happy Thanksgiving!

Did you know that wild turkeys nearly become extinct in the 1930's? Now, wild turkeys can be regularly seen all around the area.

Your Thanksgiving forecast:

Today
Sunny. Highs in the mid 60s. South winds 10 to 15 mph. Gusts up to 25 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight
Clear. Lows in the mid 40s. South winds 10 to 15 mph.

2nd annual Adrian Chamber of Commerce Christmas parade this Saturday

Get ready! The 2nd annual Adrian Christmas Parade and Hot Chocolate night is this Saturday with the parade starting at 4:30 p.m. on Main street. Be early- the Dance Craze Country Christmas Show is at 4 p.m.

Hot Chocolate Night will follow the festivities at Frontier Village where you can visit Santa, enjoy train rides and more sponsored by the Western Missouri Antique Tractor and Machinery Association.

Parade line up will begin at 3:30 p.m. at the VFW building and prizes for Best Float and other categories will be awarded. For more info contact Lori Haskins at 816-297-2194 or Linda Oldfield at 816-297-2100.

Sights (and sounds) of the season...

A VIEW OF THE BATES COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE from Fort Scott street
 in Butler. Tune your car radio to 88.7 FM and enjoy the beautiful
light show synchronized to your favorite holiday music

David Cook missing since November 19th 2008

It has been 3 years since David Cook of Amsterdam went missing from his residence in Amsterdam. The 55 year old man disappeared from his ranch in mid-November of 2008.

David Cook

Cook, was a 34 year employee of the nearby KCPL generating plant at LaCygne, Kansas . On the day of his disappearance, it was a day as normal, Cook had scheduled a contractor’s meeting at the ranch to go over plans for an upcoming project, but the otherwise reliable cook, didn’t show up.

A 200-person search party, included several on horseback, hikers, boats , and the Highway Patrol helicopter assisted in the search , all to no avail.

After three years, the family of David Cook is asking for any information or leads you may have to be reported to the Bates County sheriff’s Office or the Missouri Highway Patrol.

Cook has been missing since November 19th, 2008.

-courtesy FM 92.1 the Bullet

Minor injuries for Butler man in rollover accident

Around 12:20 today Roy Fleischer, 75, of Butler received minor injuries in a single car accident on 71 highway just North of the Maris Des Cygnes river bridge. Fleischer was Northbound in a 1998 Chevrolet pickup that traveled off the left side of the roadway, overcorrected, returned to the right side of the roadway, striking a guard rail causing the vehicle to overturn.

He was taken to Bates County Memorial hospital for treatment. The MSHP report indicates that Fleischer was wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident; the vehicle was totaled and towed from the scene.

Venison is a Healthy Choice but should be handled with Care

During this hunting season venison is gracing the table in many households. From a nutritional perspective, it is a good choice. It is a great source of protein that has significantly less fat than beef and pork. As with all protein-based foods, it is especially important to handle venison with care to prevent foodborne illness in the people who consume it.

Three ounces of deer meat contains 134 calories and has only three grams of fat. The same amount of beef can contain 259 calories and 18 grams of fat; pork, 214 calories and 13 grams of fat. 

From Recorder of Deeds, Lucille Mundey

Real estate transfers:

Security Bank to Tyler Gill:
LOTS 1, 2, 3 & 4, BLK 135, TOWN CO'S 1ST ADDN, RICH HILL WITH ABANDONED RR R/W ON S

Henry Otto Klumb (trustee) and Henry Otto Klumb Trust to Ronnie H. Reno and Krista A. Reno:
SE/4 OF 15‑40‑31, DESCRIBED

From the desk of Senator David Pearce

In Support of

Missouri Veterans Homes

The recent Veterans Day ceremonies gave me an opportunity to reflect on the importance of commemorating the events and the people who have protected us. Celebrating those brave men and women who have answered our nation’s call to protect our freedoms is an act I don’t carry out lightly. As a lawmaker and a member of the Missouri Veterans Commission, issues dealing with Missouri’s military and veterans continue to be among my highest priorities.

Obituary - Jim Morris

Services for Jim Morris, 67 of Springfield, will be on Saturday, November 26th at 6:00pm at the J.D. Lee and Sons Funeral Home in Rogersville, Mo. Visitation will be from 4:00 - 6:00pm prior to the service.

Burial will be in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery.

Jim is survived by his wife Lurenda Sivils Morris, three sons, his mother Thelma Wheatley of Butler and sister Sue Lockard and husband Gene. Jim worked for the American Detection Systems of Springfield.

J.D. Lee and Son's Funeral Home website www.jdleeandsons.com or call 417-753-4300.

Butler Police Department weekly report

Nov. 15th - Animal complaint in the 700 block of N. Delaware; animal complaint in the 300 block of S. Main; disturbance at the grade school; theft call in the 500 block of W. Ohio; alarm at Casey's on Fort Scott; theft at Ohio and High.

Nov. 16th - Medical assist in the 400 block of S. High; walk in theft report taken; funeral escort; medical assist in the 600 block of S. Delaware.

Obituary - Gary Fisher

Funeral services for Gary A. Fisher will be 11 a.m. Saturday, November 26, 2011 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri with Pastor Bud McClesky officiating. Visitation will be prior to services from 10-11 a.m. at Schowengerdt Chapel. Burial in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, Missouri. Contributions to charity of choice.

Gary Allen Fisher, age 72 of Butler, Missouri died Monday, November 21, 2011 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. He was born June 20, 1939 to Roy Truston and Bonnie Norine Igo Fisher in Sedalia, Missouri.

Gary is survived by four daughters, Grace Snethen and husband Mike of Butler, Missouri, Bonnie Lesmeister and husband Mark of Raymore, Missouri, Barbara Hall and husband Dusten of Bolivar, Missouri and Amy Brooke and husband Gary of Kansas City, Missouri; one son, Greg Lesser of Florissant, Missouri; two stepsons, Jim Bartley and wife Pam of Cross Timbers, Missouri and Gary Bartley of Butler, Missouri; two stepdaughters, Brenda Ash and husband Wayne of Bonner Springs, Kansas and Karen Baker and husband Dave of Butler, Missouri; 22 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Patsy Fisher; two brothers, Roy and Dale; three sisters, Rosalia Pasley, Wilma Parrish and Barbara Pittsenbarger; and one son, Gary D. Fisher.

10 years for Joann Stepp in murder for hire plot

In June of this year the Bates County Sheriff's Department received information that Rich Hill resident Joann R. Stepp was in need of a hit man to kill her husband, Jody Stepp- and thus was the beginning of an undercover operation that involved some convincing role playing for the sheriff's department agents.

Joann Stepp

An initial meeting with Joann Stepp was set up in early July,  where undercover agents learned of specific details about Jody Stepp- including how to see a photo of him on Facebook, his address, and other crucial information. During the meeting she made it clear that she wanted him killed as soon as possible, although she wouldn't be able to pay the 'hit man' $4,000 for the task until she received her income tax return next year. 

With that said, another meeting was scheduled on July 14th to finalize the deal.

During that meeting Detective Talley, Lt. Perryman, Under-Sheriff Moreland and Sheriff Anderson dressed in disguise, met with Joann Stepp in Rich Hill- this, she thought, was the motorcycle gang hired to kill her husband. She  provided a knife (belonging to her husband) to the group to be used in the homicide and requested that certain body parts be returned to her once the killing was done. 

Stepp was arrested by uniformed Deputies shortly after leaving the meeting and charged with conspiracy to commit murder. Bond was set at $300,000. 

Yesterday Joann Stepp was sentenced in the Bates County Circuit Court on a Class B Felony, Conspiracy to Commit Murder and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Additionally, she was sentenced to 5 years DOC on a Class C Felony of Endangering the Welfare of a Child in the same case.

Deer taken in Bates lags neighboring counties

While the number is up from last year, just over 1,800 deer have been harvested  in Bates County. More information is available here http://mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/reports/deer-reports/deer-harvest-map

Thanksgiving forecast- partly sunny, warmer

Tuesday

Cloudy. Showers and isolated thunderstorms in the morning...then a chance of showers in the afternoon. Highs in the upper 40s. North winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precipitation 80 percent.

Fall is a good time to plant trees...

Trees can provide your home with shade, wind protection and visual appeal. They can reduce energy costs, provide recreation for children and habitat for wildlife.

Newly planted trees need special attention, and not all trees are suitable for all conditions. MU Extension’s horticulture experts have developed a series of publications to help you choose the right tree and get it established.

G6800, Selecting Landscape Plants: Shade Trees
G6805, Selecting Landscape Plants: Flowering Trees
G6810, Selecting Landscape Plants: Uncommon Trees for Specimen Plantings
G6815, Selecting Landscape Plants: Needled Evergreens
G6820, Selecting Landscape Plants: Broad-leaved Evergreens
G6850, How to Plant a Tree

-courtesy of the Bates County Extension Center

Rich Hill Police Department activity report

Rich Hill Police Department Activity Report

November 14, 2011 to November 20, 2011

11-14-2011

 

11-15-2011

 

11-16-2011

 

11-17-2011

DISTURBANCE

 

11-18-2011

SPEAK TO OFFICER

 

11-19-2011

DOMESTIC

 

11-20-2011

Weekly report from the Bates County Sheriff's Office

Bates County Sheriff’s Office Activity Report

November 14, 2011 to November 20, 2011

11-14-2011

TRAFFIC STOP -PASSAIC Deputies issued a citation for Driving while revoked.

STRANDED MOTORIST-ADRIAN

ASSAULT-BUTLER Deputies responded to an assault that occurred earlier in rural Butler, MO.

SPEAK TO OFFICER-BUTLER

SPEAK TO OFFICER-RICH HILL

ANIMAL NEGLECT-ADRIAN

SPEAK TO OFFICER-BUTLER

STRANDED MOTORIST-BUTLER

CIVIL STANDBY-PASSAIC

EX PATROL-DREXEL

SPEAK TO OFFICER-BUTLER

SPEAK TO OFFICER-ADRIAN

SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY-BUTLER

SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY-BUTLER

ANIMAL AT LARGE-BUTLER

AUTO THEFT-RICH HILL

SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY-AMORET

TRESPASSING-RICH HILL

ANIMAL AT LARGE-ALTONA

 

Adrian Holiday open house in full swing

Chris Souza of Appleton City showing some of her
hand made crafts

Something for everyone

 Crisp temps make it a good day to be inside at the Adrian Holiday Open House going on now at the Optimist building on South business 71 highway.

Crafters from all around the area are showing their wares
at the Adrian Holiday Open House today

Hand made clothes and accents made locally

Vendors are on hand with all types of holiday gift ideas ranging from handmade crafts, bath and body products, food and much more.

The show runs through 4 p.m. this afternoon.

Accident claims life of Rich Hill teen

A rollover accident on route B highway just West of route N claimed the life of Marcus W. Cheek, 13, of Rich Hill yesterday evening. According to the MSHP report filed by Trooper Dodson, around 12:55 p.m. Cheek was a passenger in a Westbound 2000 Ford driven by Travis Dawn, 18, of Rich Hill that left the roadway, overturned, ejecting all three occupants, including Robert E. Cheek, 19, of Rich Hill.

Travis Dawn was transported to Ellett Memorial Hospital in Appleton city with moderate injuries. Robert Cheek was taken to Bates County Memorial Hospital with serious injuries and later airlifted to a Kansas City area Hospital. Marcus Cheek was pronounced deceased just before 8 p.m. last night at Children's Mercy Hospital.

Car fire on K highway

Butler Fire is on the scene of a car fire on K highway approximately 1 mile South of 52 Highway West of Butler.

The vehicle is parked close to a residence, so extra precautions are being taken. Watch for emergency vehicles if in the area.

photo courtesy of Jason Bennett

Adrian holiday open house tomorrow

The 4th Annual Holiday Open House will be held in Adrian tomorrow as over 30 local at-home businesses will have holiday merchandise for your home decorating or as holiday gifts. The Adrian Project Prom will prepare food, there will be an inspiring holiday performance by the Dance Craze Dancers. They will be on stage at 1 pm. The Holiday Open House will be held from 9 am to 4 pm at the Adrian Optimist Building in Adrian.

It’s free admission and everyone is invited to attend.

From windy and warm to cooler with rain...

Add this to your Christmas 'to do' list...

The "Spirit of Christmas" at St. Ludger Church, Germantown, Missouri will be held on Saturday, December 10th at 2 p.m. Come and enjoy the beautifully decorated church and listen to a variety of soloists and musicians. The Butler Brass Band will be playing and Andrea Hawkins of Clinton will be playing the original pipe organ. Christmas cards depicting two of the stained-glass windows will be available for purchase. Free will donation in lieu of admission. 

All monies go to the St. Ludger Fund for Historic Preservation. For more information contact 660-679-7867 or 660-693-4560 or 660-885-5966.

-our thanks to Donna Talbott

Heavy damage to home in Adrian this evening

Just before 6 p.m. this evening Adrian and Butler fire departments were dispatched to 203 North Bates street in Adrian on a report that fire had broken out in an upstairs bedroom.

Upon arrival, heavy fire had already consumed most of the East half of the upstairs portion of the home and had spread to the room directly below.

Crews were on the scene about 4 hours. The residence was occupied by the McDonald family, who escaped without injury.

News from Adrian Lanes

Adrian Lanes

Your Local Recreation Center

BOWLING NEWS

Through November 19,  2011

Handicap Travel League

Westchester 85.5-34.5

Plunkett Bowl 77.0-43.0

Jesters House 67.5-52.5

Adrian Lanes 2 58.5-61.5

Capri Bowl 57.0-63.0

Windsor Lanes 52.5-67.5

Strike Zone 47.0-73.0

Adrian Lanes 1 35.0-85.0

    Next: Butler Nov 20

Circuit Court News Nov. 14-18, 2011

CIRCUIT COURT OF BATES COUNTY, COURT NEWS

JAMES K JOURNEY, JUDGE

Debra Hopkins, Associate Circuit Judge

Diana L Rich, Clerk

 NOV 14 – 18, 2011

American Family Mutual Insurance v. Mindy M Miller, Amended Petition filed, certified to Circuit Court.

Keri Dawn Fennewald v Dana Marie Hankins, Full Order of Protection entered.

Donald W Hankins Jr. V Dana Marie Hankins, Petition for Order of Protection is dismissed by Petitioner.

Bates County Museum Receives State Historical Society Grant

Gary Kremer, Executive Director, State
Historical Society of Missouri presents a grant
check to Peggy Buhr, Bates
County  Museum Director.

The Bates County Museum was one of nineteen organizations throughout the State of Missouri to be awarded a 2011 Richard S. Brownlee Fund Grant to be used for the construction of a permanent exhibit depicting the Battle of Island Mound that occurred in October 1862. On Saturday, November 5th, Museum Director Peggy Buhr and Historical Society President Donna Gregory, traveled to Columbia, Missouri to attend the annual meeting of the State Historical Society of Missouri (SHS) at the Tiger Hotel. The grants were awarded by Gary Kremer, Executive Director of the SHS, and the presentations were followed by a luncheon program presented in the hotel ballroom. The Bates County Museum received the maximum grant amount of $500.

The new exhibit design will include three panels that will depict the “Settlers of Bates County,” the “Founding of the 1st Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry” and the actual “Battle of Island Mound and the Aftermath.” Plans also call for these panels to be reproduced into posters that will be easily transportable and available for presentations away from the Museum. Coordinating the 150th Commemoration of the Battle for next year is underway and will include a partnership with the Department of Natural Resources who will officially dedicate the Battle of Island Mound State Historic Site at that time. The last weekend in October 2012 will be filled with events dedicated to remembering and honoring the men and women who lived 150 years ago in 1862.

DAR 2011 Good Citizen recipients named

Local students and proud parents met on Nov. 14th in Butler to honor high school seniors from seven area high schools as recipients of the 2011 Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen awards. Some of the criteria to receive the honors are service, dependability, patriotism and leadership in the community.

Those awarded were:

Brooklyn Siegismund of Appleton City, daughter of Craig and Debbie Siegismund

Kortney Eidson of Adrian, daughter of Ron and Becky Eidson  (winner of DAR essay contest)

Alex Morris of Ballard high school, daughter of Gene and Brandy Morris

Zach Craft of Butler, son of Kelly and DeAnna Craft

Lynnlee Barton of Miami high school, daughter of Gary Barton

Sara Wikoff of Hume, daughter of Jeff and Melody Wikoff

Rohni Lee Carroll of Rich Hill, daughter of Richard and Amy Carroll

Kortney Eidson's winning essay titled "Our American Heritage and Our Responsibility for Preserving It" will now advance her to the next stage of competition at the state level, to be held in the near future.

All seven local students were given a Good Citizen lapel pin and wallet card card for their outstanding achievement.

New speed limit in Adrian

During Monday's Adrian city council meeting, it was approved to reduce the speed limit on Main street to 15 mph between Lexington (by railroad tracks) to Kentucky (by funeral home). During the same meeting it was also approved to set the speed limit on the outer road that connects Business 71 north to the new overpass at 45 mph.

It is unknown exactly when the four new speed limit signs will go up to indicate the changes.

Cost of Thanksgiving meal has increased but there are ways of paying less

Nationally, the cost of the Thanksgiving meal will be a little bit more expensive in 2011. Missourians will be paying more than last year but less than most Americans. Still, there are ways of spending even less if you know how to find the bargains.

Each year since 1986 the American Farm Bureau Federation has conducted the cost of Thanksgiving dinner survey. Shoppers from 35 states look for the best prices on a list of food that includes turkey, bread stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls with butter, peas, cranberries, a relish tray of carrots and celery, pumpkin pie with whipped cream, coffee and milk. The national average for the cost of the Thanksgiving meal that would feed ten people is $49.20. This is $5.73 more than in 2010 or about a 12% increase. 

Food pantry distribution this Saturday

Mass distribution will be this Saturday, November 19th from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. There will be no distribution on the 4th Saturdays of November or December due to the Holidays.

Distribution date for December will be announced shortly. The Butler Community Food Pantry is located at the corner of Prospect and Ohio streets in Butler. 

The new web site can be found here www.batescountypantry.org

-our thanks to Joyce Fitzpatrick

Old diseases, new treatments

From the desk of Senator David Pearce

It’s the Most  Wonderful Time

 of the Year

As anyone in the retail industry knows, the fourth quarter of the fiscal year is when the most money is spent. With decorations, gifts, and large family meals, average spending rises between Thanksgiving and Christmas. But with increased spending comes increased opportunity for dishonest people to attempt to part you from your hard-earned money.

Unfortunately, consumer fraud and scams occur daily. Each year, the National Consumer League (NCL) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) compile lists of the most-reported scams to make citizens aware of the dangers. This year’s list is not surprising, with the top five scams including internet sales, fake checks, prizes or sweepstakes, phishing/spoofing, and advance loans/credit schemes. Thieves who operate these scams prey on both people’s good nature and the current economy in the hopes that someone will either believe a lie or be desperate enough to want to utilize their fake services. Without thorough research of these companies through reputable sources, such as the Better Business Bureau or even the Secretary of State’s office, citizens could potentially become a victim.