Saturday, May 25, 2019

Severe Thunder Storm Watch in effect until 3am Sunday

The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunder Storm Watch in effect till 3am Sunday for our area. 

Please stay weather aware tonight, we'll update this page as needed if any more watches or warnings are issued.


Boaters: Know Before You Go!

Captain Matt Walz, director of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Water Patrol Division, is emphasizing the importance of boaters being informed about river and lake conditions before they put their vessels into the water. Recreational boaters are being discouraged from operating their vessels on flooded waterways where property will be negatively impacted by boat wakes, especially over the upcoming holiday weekend. Memorial Day weekend is generally one of the busiest of the boating season: Use caution in selecting your destination. The high-water levels on many of the waterways around our state will impact property, including structures in some areas, and boat wakes will only increase the damage. By state law, boat operators are required to operate in a careful and prudent manner and exercise the highest degree of care. 

Boaters are encouraged to use the old boating adage of know before you go and to research the river and lake conditions before operating a vessel in a flood-affected area. Many waterways, regardless of current water levels, will contain a significant amount of floating debris due to the recent heavy rains and high-water levels. Thus, boaters must maintain a proper lookout for potential hazards in the water and exercise caution. In addition, many of the boat access areas on waterways may be affected.

Wearing a life jacket is always a great idea. But, if you choose not to wear your life jacket, it must be readily accessible.

Watercraft operators must consider the effect their actions have on others: Share the waterway and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Life jackets save lives. Wear It!!


Flooding and Thunderstorms Late Tonight


Good afternoon, we're expecting another line of storms, later tonight. Heavy rainfall will be the biggest hazard, with flash flooding concerns persisting. Be safe everyone!

Also, we continue to have Facebook access issues. We apologize for the inconvenience, but we cannot answer questions or post questions until the issues are resolved.



Missing Juvenile from Linn County Kansas


Missing Juvenile: Hannah Walter (16 yrs. old)
Missing from: Prescott, Kansas
Last Seen: 05/24/2019 at 6 PM

Linn County Sheriff’s Office has received information that Hannah Walters maybe with a Kenneth Jones (white male approximately 44 yrs. old) and traveling in a 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Hannah Walters or Kenneth Jones please contact the Linn County Sheriff's Office.

Obituary - William Ashton DeMay

William Ashton DeMay, age 77, Linn Valley, Kansas passed away on Thursday May 23, 2019. He was born in McCook, Nebraska on December 2, 1941 the son of Hal and Martha Jones DeMay. 

He graduated from Decatur County High School, McCook Junior College and received a Bachelor''s Degree from the University of Kansas where he was a member of the Delta Chi Fraternity. Bill married Robyn Urban on January 27, 1963 at the Oberlin United Methodist Church. He worked as a personnel manager for Southwest Grease and Oil. 

Bill also sold real estate and along with Robyn had an Amway distributorship. He enjoyed watching the game show network and playing bingo. He always seemed to have a smile on his face. He was preceded in death by in laws, Diane DeMay and Dan Grubb. Bill is survived by his wife Robyn, two daughters, Risa Doty and husband Keith, and Stephanie DeMay and husband Moffat Mathews; a brother, Bob DeMay; four sisters, Janet Bamesberger and Dale, Jodi Grubb, Kathy Felix and Frank, and Carolyn Richards and Steve; five grandchildren: Brandon, Rachelle, Joshua, Allison and Peyton; many great grandchildren; nieces, nephews extended family and friends.

Service will be 11 am Saturday, June 1, 2019 at the Schneider Funeral Home and Crematory, La Cygne Chapel. Visitation will be held from 10 am to service time at the Chapel. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.


Friday, May 24, 2019

Appleton City woman seriously injured in Bates County rollover accident

On 5/24/19 around 2:55pm the Missouri State Highway Patrol in Bates County along with Bates County EMS and the Butler Fire Department responded to a one vehicle rollover accident on Missouri 52 East Highway just west of CR8305 in rural Bates County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the accident occurred when the 2009 Buick Lacrosse driven 31 year old Kalen R. Meredith of Appleton City, Missouri was traveling eastbound when she traveled off the north side of the roadway and overturned.

Kalen R. Meredith sustained serious injuries in this accident and she was transported by Life Flight Eagle to Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri for treatment.

The vehicle was totaled and towed from the scene by Douty's Tow of Butler, Missouri.


Copyright Mid America Live News 



Obituary - Steven Frey

Steven Frey, age 59, passed away Friday, May 24, 2019 at his home in Brownington, MO Condolences and fond memories may be left online at www.vansant-millsfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Vansant-Mills Funeral Home, Clinton, MO. Services are pending.

Flash Flood Warning until 1:30am

Weather for Bates Co.... 

The National Weather Service in Pleasant Hill has issued a * Flash Flood Warning for... Miami County in east central Kansas... Linn County in east central Kansas... Cass County in west central Missouri... Bates County in west central Missouri... 

* Until 130 AM CDT Saturday. * At 723 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain moving into the warned area. Flash flooding is expected to begin shortly. Heavy rains will continue through a good portion of the evening and overnight hours. 

This combined with saturated soils from recent rainfall, will lead to flash flooding across the warned area. * Some locations that will experience flooding include... Lee`s Summit, Grandview, Belton, Raymore, Harrisonville, Pleasant Hill, Paola, Spring Hill, Greenwood, Peculiar, Osawatomie, Louisburg, Butler, Adrian, Garden City, Rich Hill, Pleasanton, La Cygne, Mound City and Archie. This includes Interstate 35 in Kansas between mile markers 200 and 201.

Tornado Watch until midnight

The National Weather Service in Pleasant Hill has issued a Tornado Watch in affect for Bates and surrounding until 12am.

Mid America Live News will monitor the weather and provide updates when they are available!

Flooding and Thunderstorms very possible this evening





Thunderstorms with heavy rainfall will result in dangerous flash flooding across portions of the region. 

Additionally, strong to severe thunderstorms are possible with hail and wind the primary concerns, but a few tornadoes cannot be ruled out at this time.

At present, we are unable to answer questions or messages on Facebook due to access issues. 

Please use our web page,weather.gov/kc and check our Twitter page (@NWSKansasCity) for more forecast information. Thanks!

Happy Retirement Colleen Gillis

Today we say “Happy Retirement” to Colleen Gillis. Colleen has been with the Wal-Mart family a total of 32.5 years.

Colleen has worked in many areas of the store and is one of the original associates that opened up the first Walmart in Butler, Mo.

We will miss you Colleen and Congratulations on your retirement.



Obituary - Patricia Ann (Ginn) Goolsby

Patricia Ann Goolsby, 77, Nevada, MO passed from this life on Thursday, May 23, 2019 at her home in Nevada. Patricia was born February 13, 1942 in White Springs, FL to Melvin and Mellie Dixon (Johns) Ginn. She was united in marriage to Jerald R. Goolsby in December of 1970 and he survives of the home.

Patricia was a homemaker and a longtime member of the Church of the Nazarene in Nevada.

In addition to her husband Jerald she is survived by two sons, Richard Larry Goolsby and his wife Dana (Carlson) Goolsby, Nevada, MO, and Donald Goolsby, St. Cloud, FL; three grandchildren, Ashley Goolsby, Derek Goolsby, and Justin Goolsby, all of Nevada; one sister, Sybil Donaldson, Roselle, IL; two brothers, Melvin Ginn and his wife Elaine, Dothan, Alabama, Robert Ginn, Jacksonville, FL; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2019 at Church of the Nazarene in Nevada. Interment will follow in Newton Burial Park in Nevada.The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday evening at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada. Friends may call after 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday.

Those who wish may plant a tree in her memory.

Complete destruction near Golden City MO

Forecasters put Bates County in the center of the bullseye for storms this week, unfortunately our neighbors to the south saw the brunt of it.

This was the home of 86-year-old Gene Harris and his 83-year-old wife, Opal. They were killed by the tornado that hit near Golden City, MO Wednesday night.

Devastation was not only limited to their farm, but spread from just northwest of Joplin into Jefferson City, where heavy damage was reported. Storms and more rain are forecast for the next 4-5 days as well.


V Highway south of Virginia closed at this time

Road Closure in rural Bates County: V Highway south of Virginia is closed at Marvel Bridge due to high water at this time. 

Mid America Live News will update when more information is made available to us.

Severe Storms Friday Afternoon & Evening

Active weather is in no mood to quit anytime soon.

Watch for strong to severe storms this afternoon and evening. If out tonight, avoid any potential flooded roadways.


Memorial Day Ceremony in Adrian

VFW Post 1935 will conduct our annual Memorial Day Ceremony on Saturday, May 25, 2019 at 10:00 AM at Lt. Charles Garrison Veterans Memorial, Adrian, MO. 

The public is invited and encouraged to come. Rain date Monday, May 27, 10:00AM.

Thursday, May 23, 2019

1st Annual Blue River Bluegrass Festival in Harrisonville


Everyday dollar of each ticket benefits Restoration House KC as they combat human trafficking in our community and provide much needed to services to its victims. 

The best bluegrass in the world with Grammy nominee Kenny and Amanda Smith - all for an amazing cause. blueriverfestival.com


Obituary - Rex Keith Smith

Rex Smith, 61, Clinton, Missouri passed to his heavenly home on Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at his home in Clinton. Graveside Cremation Inurnment will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2019 at Englewood Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association and may be left in care of Vansant-Mills Funeral Home, Clinton. Fond memories and condolences may be left online at www.vansant-millsfuneralhome.com.

Rex was born in Clinton, Missouri the son of Glen Smith Jr. and Lennie Ann (Plumlee) Smith He was an automotive mechanic owning his own business, A&J Motors in Parker, Kansas where he also was a volunteer fireman and EMT. He loved to spend time with his grandkids camping and fishing. He coached baseball. He served on the Clinton School Board 2000-2003. He enjoyed taking care of his chickens and goats.

He is survived by his wife Doris (Goth) Smith; daughter Linsey Ashlock of Shawnee, KS.; sons, Andrew and Jarred; grandchildren, Alexis, Aaron, Bryndle; brother, Tony (Diana) Smith of Clinton; sisters, Brenda (Lowell) Church of Fountain, CO. and Joyce (Mike) Eager of Belton.

Family would like to thank Twin Lakes Hospice for their kind and loving care.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Vansant-Mills Funeral Home, Clinton, MO.


Who will stop the rain?



"Who will stop the rain?" - CCR

No... seriously... who will stop the rain?

Isolated severe thunderstorms are possible later tonight, with another round of moderate to heavy rain overnight from northeastern Kansas into portions of northwestern Missouri.

Driver Charged in Pursuit of Stolen Vehicle in Cass County

Cass Co – On Wednesday May 22, 2019 around 7:35 am deputies with the Cass County Sheriff's Office assisted the Peculiar Police Department to catch a suspect fleeing in a stolen vehicle.

Officers with the Peculiar Police Department attempted to stop a 2006 Dodge truck reported stolen from rural Pleasant Hill on May 7. Peculiar Police chased the vehicle south on C Highway from Peculiar.

When the pursuit approached the area of C Highway and 2 Highway, a Cass County Deputy successfully deployed a tire deflation device. The suspect continued to drive the vehicle with several flat tires west on 2 Highway through Freeman Missouri.

The driver led deputies north on State Route D south of Cleveland where a deputy performed a tactical vehicle intervention maneuver and forced the vehicle off the highway.

The driver, Daniel T. Moore, 44, Independence then ran on foot before deputies caught him. Moore was arrested on the following warrants:

Failure to Appear- Possession Controlled Substance out of Mercer County, bond $10,000.00 ,Obstruction – Independence Police, bond $225.00

Today Cass County Prosecutors charged Daniel Moore with Tampering with Motor Vehicle - D Felony, Possession Controlled Substance – D Felony, Resisting Arrest – E Felony. Bond is $25,000 cash only.

The Cass County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Disclaimer: Arrest records are public information. Any indication of an arrest does not mean the individual identified has been convicted of a crime. All persons arrested are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.



Chris Hasselman Benefit this Saturday in Butler

This Saturday May 25th I'm gonna need everyone to stop by the old O'Reilly's parking lot in Butler!! 

We will be having all donation bake sale! Lots of goodies!! We will also be selling pulled pork sandwiches and a drink!! 

All proceeds will go to Chris Hasselman s wife Hannah Hasselman and their beautiful children!! Our community always comes together in time of crisis... now is the time please help this family!

THIS IS A RAIN OR SHINE EVENT AND WILL START AROUND 10AM

Obituary - Loyd LeRoy McGraw

Loyd LeRoy McGraw, Sr., 83, Walker, MO passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at his home in Walker following a lengthy illness. Loyd was born August 18, 1935 in El Dorado Springs, MO to Russell and Georgie (Hargrove) McGraw. Loyd was then married to his loving wife Lois Toepfer McGraw on January 4, 1959 in Fort Scott, KS and she survives of the home.

Loyd was baptized into Christ at the age of 22 and has been a longtime member of the Church of Christ in Nevada where he served as a deacon for a number of years. Loyd was the father of eight children, Glenda, Russell, Lela, Vanita, Shela, Vernon, Loyd, Jr., and John. He was an over the road truck driver for 33 years.

In addition to his wife Lois he is survived by seven children, Glenda (McGraw) Gresham and her husband Darryl of Coyle, OK, Lela McGraw of Edmond, OK, Vanita McGraw of Edmond, OK, Shela (McGraw) Cameron of Nixa, MO, Vernon McGraw and his wife Misty (Adams) McGraw of Nevada, MO, Loyd LeRoy McGraw, Jr. and his wife Janet (Kelley) McGraw of Piedmont, OK, John McGraw and his wife Julie (Green) McGraw of Nevada, MO; one daughter-in-law, Teressa (Huckaby) McGraw of El Dorado Springs, MO; nine grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; two sisters, Juanita Press, Florida and Elsie Sitton, Bolivar, MO; numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, one son, Russell McGraw, and four brothers.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 25, 2019 at Marvin Chapel Cemetery in Nevada, MO with Bro. Dennis Sitton officiating. The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 p.m. on Friday evening at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.

Memorials are suggested to the family in c/o Ferry Funeral Home.


Here to help life go right... State Farm

With all of these storms in the area, now is the time you remember why you pay for your insurance, and also how good is the policy you bought. Call us to discuss any damage you may have from the storms.

Please make sure you have a severe weather plan in place to keep your family safe. Call 660-679-6101 or email agent@kellieismyagent.com.

Obituary - John Ruckel Koch

John Ruckel Koch was the son of John C. and Mary (Ruckel) Koch. He was born November 28, 1933, and passed away May 21, 2019. He graduated from Creighton school, then went on to attend Central Missouri State College in Warrensburg before enlisting in the Missouri National Guard.

He was a hard-working farmer, as well as a real estate and insurance salesman. He enjoyed fishing and antiquing with his wife, Lela.

JR married Lela Parris in June of 1958, and the two enjoyed nearly 61 years of marriage; to this union three children were born. He was a dedicated husband and father, and provided well for his family. He loved to watch his children and grandchildren take part in sports and other activities, and was proud of each and every one of them growing into good, upstanding citizens.

JR passed away the morning of May 21, 2019 at his home in Creighton surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Mary Carol (Koch) Thornburg. He is survived by his wife Lela of the home, two sons, Mark and wife Laura Koch of Peculiar, Rocky and wife Brenda Koch of Harrisonville, and a daughter Clara and husband Stan Taber of Creighton, as well as five grandchildren, Jessica (Taber) Miller, Jon Koch, Mackenzie Koch, Wes Taber, and Kristen Koch.

Celebration of Life and Masonic Service, Saturday, May 25, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at the Dickey Funeral Home, Garden City, MO 816-862-6345; with visitation from 12:30-2:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Inurnment in Parker Cemetery near Creighton, MO.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Parker Cemetery Association.



Butler Chamber of Commerce 1st Annual Membership Program Meeting

Join us for the 1st membership meeting of the year. Being held June 18th @ 5:30 p.m. at Poplar Heights Living History Farm. We also would like to invite anyone who would also be interested in joining Chamber.




Sex offender registered in Adrian

A sex offender moved from Jackson County and registered in Bates County today. 

Garamee Cooper (DOB 6/30/1989) is registered at 134 W 3rd in Adrian, MO. 

Cooper was convicted of Sexual Misconduct in Marshall, MO on 11/26/2007. He is classified as a Tier 2 Sex Offender.

Bates County Sheriff’s Office Activity Report May 13th, 2019 - May 19th, 2019

MAY 13th, 2019 
ANIMAL CALL - BUTLER
SPEAK TO OFFICER - DREXEL
ANIMAL CALL - AMSTERDAM
AMBULANCE REQUEST - BUTLER
RUN AWAY - ADRIAN
PAPER SERVICE - BUTLER
PAPER SERVICE - BUTLER
PAPER SERVICE - BUTLER
PAPER SERVICE - BUTLER
FOLLOW UP - ADRIAN
ANIMAL CALL - PASSAIC
SPEAK TO OFFICER - GARDEN CITY
PAPER SERVICE - MERWIN
SPEAK TO OFFICER - MERWIN
ANIMAL CALL - BUTLER
SPEAK TO OFFICER - AMSTERDAM
SPEAK TO OFFICER - BUTLER
FAILURE TO YIELD - ADRIAN
SPEAK TO OFFICER - BUTLER
SPEAK TO OFFICER - ADRIAN
THEFT/STEALING - ADRIAN
BARRICADED SUBJECT - RICH HILL
C&I DRIVING - DREXEL
PAPER SERVICE - BUTLER
FOLLOW UP - BUTLER
AMBULANCE REQUEST - RICH HILL

Power Outages in Barton County

At this time the Barton County Electric Cooperative has approximately 600 members without power. We have experienced downed poles and power lines throughout our system. 

Crews worked through the night and will continue to work through the day until all power is restored.

Please contact our office at 800-286-5636 or 417-682-5636 to report any outages.

Please remember to stay away from any downed power lines. We appreciate your patience as our linemen continue to work through the evening.


Have you seen this missing teen?

The Pleasant Hill Police Department would like the public's help in locating a possible missing/endangered person. 

We are looking for a 17 year old white female last seen on today's date (5/23) around midnight wearing grey converse shoes and possibly blue jeans. 

She has medium length straight black hair and she is approximately 5’1” 115 pounds. 

She is believed to be on foot. If you see this girl please contact the Pleasant Hill PD at 816-540-9109

Wednesday, May 22, 2019

Major flooding possible ahead of holiday weekend

JEFFERSON CITY – The National Weather Service is warning of the potential for major flooding throughout the state, particularly along the Missouri River, which will affect the cities of Boonville, Jefferson City, Hermann and Washington.

With the Memorial Day weekend approaching, the Missouri Department of Transportation is urging travelers to plan their routes ahead of time and to pay attention to all road closure signs. During flooding, the road may no longer exist under the running or stationary water. Floodwaters can be deeper than they appear and can hide such hazards as sharp objects, electrical wires, sewage and chemicals.

In addition, MoDOT reminds motorists never to move or attempt to drive around barricades that block flooded roads. Barricades are put in place for motorists’ safety, yet MoDOT and law enforcement officials report they continue to see drivers either maneuver around the road blocks or move them to get through.

“Moving a barricade is dangerous for the person doing it and also puts others at risk by removing the warning sign,” said Natalie Roark, state maintenance director. “Whether driving or walking, any time you come to a flooded area or barricade, remember the saying: turn around, don’t drown.”

Here are some important safety reminders:

•Don't drive through any flooded areas. A few extra minutes for a detour could lead to a life saved.

•MoDOT reminds motorists it only takes six inches of water (or less!) to lose control of your vehicle and possibly be swept into rising floodwaters.

•Any time there is water over the roadway, there may be unseen damage to the road surface below.

• Stay alert and do not drive through water over a roadway or around construction barricades. MoDOT encourages all motorists to Turn Around! Don’t Drown!

Motorists can stay informed about Missouri road conditions by using MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map, available online at modot.org, or through MoDOT’s smartphone app, available for iPhone and Android mobile devices.

From the Henry County Sheriff's Office

HAZARDOUS ROAD CONDITIONS / RUNNING WATER OVER ROADWAY -- MO-

Highway 7 & MO-Route C. Citizen's report received of section of roadway underwater. 

Travel in this area not advisable....alternate routing highly recommended.

Courtesy of the Henry County Missouri Sheriff's Office.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning in Bates and Henry County until 9:00pm



Flash Flood Warning for Bates and Henry County


The national weather service has issued a flash flood watch till 2:15 a.m. in Bates County and Henry County 

Tornado Warning for SE Bates County Until 8:15pm




Storm Shelters in Butler

In case of severe weather or tornado the following locations are storm shelters in the City of Butler.

  • First Baptist Church - 300 N Delaware
  • First Christian Church - 11 W. Pine
  • Heartland Hospice - 612 W Ft Scott
  • Immanuel Baptist Church - 801 W Dakota

Information courtesy of the City of Butler 

Anything will help!


These will be set up all around town!@! Please help this family!?

Tornado Watch until 11pm


A #Tornado Watch has been issued for the following counties below until 11 p.m. Wednesday night.

Multiple strong, possibly tornadic storms are possible, along with very large hail.

The National Weather Service has declared this a Particularly Dangerous Situation and all are urged to take precautions during these storms.

Photo credit: US National Weather Service Kansas City Missouri



FLASHBACK: Early days of radio in Bates County

On the air in 1963 Edwin Blocher and Bob
Spurrier
on location
 
It's often called the Golden Days of Radio and yes, Bates County was in the mix. Over the years, the station has grown in many ways- here is a brief history:

Established in 1962 by two brothers, Bill and Jerry Thornton. Bill Thornton began his career as a DJ, continued his career in the United States Navy as an engineer, then graduated from Arkansas State with a degree in Journalism and a dream to build his own radio station.

On May 11, 1962, the first broadcast from KMAM AM 1530 began at 6 AM. The Bates County Broadcasting Company, located at 800 East Nursery Street in Butler, may be the last radio station in the country of its age, still under its original ownership.

The FM frequency was added on January 15, 1975 and KMAM/KMOE became two stations, simulcasting in FM and AM. In the beginning, the radio station could only broadcast during daylight hours. The station has gone from reel-to-reel tape, to cartridge tapes, then cassettes, and now there is full automation and no tapes required. Local broadcasters had to come to the radio station in person to perform and be on air. Music was on vinyl. Now programs can be recorded anywhere at any time and brought to the station to be aired at a scheduled time. From noisy teletype in a soundproof room, to satellites receiving programs from 24,000 miles in the sky, KMAM/KMOE-FM 92.1 brings the Kansas City Royals, ABC World News, Farm Market Reports and a variety of other shows to listeners. Bill and Louise Thornton still own the station, but they have retired from working there, and the General Manager is their daughter, Melody Thornton. Melody has been announcing since 1980 and she has made positive changes to the format and programs at the station. The station continues to move forward into a competitive and up-to-date venue of music, news, and entertainment for the ever expanding broadcasting area.

Bill Thornton – Owner

Bill is the Founder of KMAM-KMOE, the first radio station in Butler, Established in 1962 by two brothers, Bill and Jerry Thornton. Bill began his career as a DJ, continued his career in the United States Navy as an engineer, and then graduated from Arkansas State with a degree in Journalism and a dream to build his own radio station. On May 11, 1962, the first broadcast from KMAM AM 1530 began at 6 AM. The Bates County Broadcasting Company, located at 800 East Nursery Street in Butler, may be the last radio station in the country of its age, still under its original ownership. The FM frequency was added on January 15, 1975 and KMAM/KMOE became two stations, simulcasting in AM and FM. In the beginning, the radio station could only broadcast during daylight hours. The station has gone from reel-to-reel tape, to cartridge tapes, then cassettes, and now there is full automation and no tapes required. Local broadcasters had to come to the radio station in person to perform and be on air. Music was on vinyl. Now programs can be recorded anywhere at any time and brought to the station to be aired at a scheduled time. From noisy teletype in a soundproof room, to satellites sending programs from 24,000 miles in the sky, KMAM-KMOE now brings the Kansas City Royals, Kansas City Chiefs, ABC World News, Farm Market Reports and a variety of other shows to listeners. Bill and Louise Thornton still own the station, but they have since retired, their daughter, Melody Thornton now acts as General Manager. Melody has been announcing since 1980 and she has made positive changes to the format and programs at the station. The station continues to move forward into a competitive and up-to-date venue of music, news, and entertainment for the ever expanding broadcasting area.


Melody Thornton – General Manager

Melody has been announcing since 1980 and she has made positive changes to the format and programs at the station. The station continues to move forward into a competitive and up-to-date venue of music, news, and entertainment for the ever expanding broadcasting area.


Editor's note- Many thanks to Bill Thornton for hiring me in 1982. KMAM/KMOE FM nicely launched my career in broadcasting which included on-the-air work at KNEM/KNMO in Nevada, KOMB in Fort Scott and later 61 Country, WHB, KUDL and Oldies 95 in Kansas City. All of which could not have been done without a start right here in Bates County. -Doug Mager

-courtesy 921news.com

2019 Rich Hill 4th of July T-Shirts now available


T-Shirts are now available at Citizens Bank in Rich Hill.
There are two options this year, 50/50 light weight shirt (tagless) and 100% cotton shirt (heavier).
Both shirts have the same design.
$15 for sizes S-XL $16 sizes 2XL-3XL



Sonic Corn Dog Deal This Thursday!

We know what you’re eating for lunch on Thursday, May 23! Pregame your weekend with some crunchy, crispy, yummy 50¢ Corn Dogs. ☀️ Skip the line, and order aheadin the SONIC app.

Each Corn Dog is 50¢. Tax not included. Offer valid only on May 23rd, 2019 at participating SONIC® Drive-In locations while supplies last. Not good in conjunction with combos or any other offers.


From the Bates County Sheriff's Office

Severe thunderstorms will be possible late this afternoon into the evening (between 4-10 PM), mainly along and south of the Interstate 70 corridor. Large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes are all possible in the strongest activity. 

Additionally, rapid rates of heavy rainfall over already saturated grounds will result in the potential for flash flooding. 

River flooding continues in many locations across the area. As a heads up, strong to severe thunderstorms, and the potential for heavy rainfall, will remain possible Thursday into the weekend.

Obituary - Cenobio "John" Lozano Jr.

Cenobio "John" Lozano Jr., 78, Peculiar, Missouri departed this life on Monday, May 20, 2019 at the Cass Regional Medical Center, Harrisonville, Missouri.

He is survived by his son, John Alexander Lozano and wife Sherri, Lee's Summit, Missouri; a daughter, Laurie Stinson and husband Lloyd, Eddington, Maine; two granddaughters, Alyssa Marie Lozano and Grace Stinson; two brothers, Salvador Lozano and Rafael Lozano both of Kansas City, Missouri; three sisters, Joaquina Vallejo, Kansas City, Kansas, Dolores Lozano, Kansas City, Missouri, Stephanie Rhodes; numerous nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

Cremation. A Celebrating of Life Gathering will be held Thursday, May 30, 2019 from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri.

Family suggests memorial contributions may be made to the St. Luke's Foundation.

Theft Reported In Nevada




Heavy Rainfall and Thunderstorms



Increasing concerns for a narrow line of dangerous thunderstorms developing later this afternoon from southeastern Kansas into west central and central Missouri into the evening. 

Damaging hail, up to Tennis ball size possible is our greatest concern with a few tornadoes possible with the strongest storms. Please stay weather aware this afternoon!


B Highway closed east of Rich Hill

Rain isn't giving up any time soon...in fact, we'll see another round of storms this evening and Bates county is in the bullseye.

Flooding has already prompted closures, including B highway east of Rich Hill and rain tonight could again cause problems in other areas that were closed yesterday as well.

Forecasters are saying we are to expect severe thunderstorms between 4 and 10 pm this evening which could include large hail, damaging winds and possibly tornado activity in the area. This includes the potential for flash flooding.

Mid America Live will keep an eye on the situation and will update as weather moves through this evening.


Unusual visitor at the courthouse this morning...


We're not sure if this deer was disappointed the license bureau wasn't open yet or maybe just came to dine on the dew covered grass. Either way, it was a welcomed sight on the Butler square this morning.


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