Butler parent and staff members,

Butler parent and staff members,

With the recent media coverage regarding a District staff member, I wanted to reach out to provide you with the limited information we can disclose at this time:

Mr. Reece is on administrative leave and will not be on campus or at District events or functions. Any time there are allegations of inappropriate conduct by a staff member, the District not only performs its own investigation pursuant to our policies, but also works closely and cooperatively with law enforcement in their investigation.

Because this matter does involve personnel and student information, I cannot disclose specific details or information. If you have specific questions or concerns, contact me directly.

Please know that the District is fully committed to ensuring that every staff member is appropriate background checked prior to employment, and that student safety is the first priority each and every day.

Darin Carter
Superintendent

https://www.midamericalive.com/2022/03/butler-teacher-arrested-for-3-counts-of.html

Butler teacher arrested for 3 counts of sexual contact with a student

On 3/30/2022, the Bates County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a teacher who potentially had an inappropriate relationship with a past student.

On 3/31/2022, the Bates County Sheriff’s Office along with Butler Police Department made contact with the teacher at the school. The teacher was taken into custody and transported to the Bates County Sheriff’s Office.

Preliminary charges were sent to a special prosecutor and the following charges have been filed on


Charles Odell Reece (9/16/1983).
3 counts of sexual contact with a student.

The Butler School is cooperating with the Sheriff’s Office in this investigation. The investigation is an ongoing investigation with the anticipation of additional charges connected to this victim. Detectives are asking potential other victims to contact their office at 660-679-3232.

Bond was set at $50,000.00 cash only by Judge Highley, With bond conditions of no contact with the victim or other potential witnesses.

No other information will be provide as this is an ongoing investigation.

Obituary - Christina Sue Thurman

Christina Sue Thurman, age 50, of Clinton, Missouri passed away on Monday, March 28, 2022 at Boone Hospital in Columbia, Missouri. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, April 1, 2022 at the Vansant-Mills Chapel in Clinton with a visitation from 2:00-3:00 PM prior to the service. Inurnment will be in Parks Chapel Cemetery, Clinton, Missouri. Memorial contributions can be made to the Christina Thurman Memorial Fund and can be left in care of the funeral home.

Christina Sue Thurman was born on November 1, 1971 in Clinton, Missouri to Earl and Dolores Thurman.

Christina was loving and compassionate. She loved the sound of birds chirping in the morning as well as spending time with loved ones and laughing. You could very seldom sneak up on her but when you did it was sure to be funny. She had the best and brightest smile and laugh! She will be truly missed by so many, but one day we will all be reunited together, again. Until then, Fly High Mother and I’ll see you on the other side.

Survivors include her son, Sam Parks of Clinton, Missouri, her grand puppy, "Batman", three brothers, Eric Thurman of Clinton, Missouri, Danny Thurman of Leeton, Missouri, Joe Thurman of Clinton, Missouri, her companion, David Beason of Ionia, Missouri, three nieces, Carley Thurman of Warrensburg, Missouri, Alexis Thurman of Warrensburg, Missouri, Emily Thurman of Leeton, Missouri, her nephew Cole Thurman of Warrensburg, Missouri and many more step nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and many friends.

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

From the Butler R-5 School District

The Butler R-V School District is aware of this matter, and takes concerns regarding personnel conduct and student safety seriously.

This staff member is currently on leave and the District is cooperating with law enforcement regarding their investigation. We cannot comment further on matters involving individual personnel and students, as those are confidential as required by law.

However, any time the District becomes aware of an allegation impacting student safety, we promptly investigate the matter and address it in accordance with Board Policy and the law.

The safety and well-being of our students is of utmost importance, and we are committed to providing a safe and successful learning environment in the District.

- Courtesy of Darin Carter

This Story Has Been Updated:
https://www.midamericalive.com/2022/03/butler-teacher-arrested-for-3-counts-of.html

Obituary - Dale Eugene Henson

Dale Eugene Henson, age 81 of Nevada, Missouri, died Wednesday, March 30, 2022 at Medicalodges in Nevada, MO.

Dale was born February 13, 1941 in Cliquot, MO to Oren “Stanley” Henson and Cordia “Cordie” Virginia (Hensley) Henson. He graduated with Nevada High School class of 1959.

He married Kathryn “June” LaDue on September 23, 1961 and they were blessed with three children: James Dale, Suzan Dalette, and John Steven.

After graduating, Dale moved to Kansas City, MO and worked for several months at Hallmark Card. He then took his ‘favorite’ job with (Roy) Phillips Standard Service in Kansas City, MO which later moved to Overland Park, KS. He held this job until returning to Nevada, MO 1969. He then began working for TheVolkswagen Co. in Nevada, MO before purchasing service station; Dale’s Standard. After operating it for a few years he sold the station and went to work at 3M, retiring in 2000.

Soon after retiring he then spent several years working for, helping out, and really enjoying the Mennonite folks in the Rich Hill, MO area.

After June retired December 2006 they became ‘Arizona Snowbirds’ and spent 5 months each winter in Las Colinas RV Park in Casa Grande, AZ area. For several years they also had several booths in flea markets selling Blackberry Farms jams and jellies, pickles and apple butter and everything else the Mennonites made.

Dale is survived by his wife, June, and their three children; James Dale Henson, of the home; Suzan (Greg) York, Alamo, TX; and John Steven (Maryann Koehn) Henson; Three grandchildren: Kyrsti Breckenridge (Justin Wright), Kyler Henson & Kayte Henson; Three Great-Grandchildren: Korben & Killian Breckenridge and Madelynn Rose Wright; all of Nevada. Dale is also survived by four sisters, Mary Virginia (Darrell) O’Hair, Margie (Kenny) Phillips, Fort Scott, KS); Barbara (Monty) Gordon, Moundville, MO and Debbie (Terry) Carlson, Milo, MO. One sister-in-law, Helen (LaDue) Armstrong of Nevada, one brother-in-law, Samuel LaDue (Sheron) of Parker, CO. Dale has more than 25 nieces and nephews, and LOADS of good friends all over the country.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley & Cordie Henson, and five brothers-in-laws: Jerry LaDue, Dan LaDue, Harry LaDue, Thom LaDue & Keith Armstrong.

The family will receive friends on Monday, April 4th from 5:00-6:00pm. Funeral services are scheduled for Tuesday, April 5th at 1:30 p.m. with Pastors Greg York and Adam Gordon officiating. Both will be held at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada, MO.

Burial will follow in Salem Cemetery in Cliquot, MO.

Obituary - Dorothy F. Kenney

Dorothy F. Kenney, 88, of Marshall, Missouri, formerly of Clinton, Mo., passed away Wednesday evening, March 23, 2022 at the Legendary Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Marshall. She was born October 31, 1933 in Coal, Mo., the daughter of Edward “Fritz” Kimzey and Jewell Adah (Clark) Kimzey.

She married Robert Gene “Bob” Kenney on December 26, 1951, eloping to Harrison, Arkansas while he was home on leave from the Army. He preceded her in death on June 9, 2018. Dorothy worked several years as a clerk for the Ben Franklin Dime Store. She was a member of the First Christian Church in Clinton. She and Bob were regulars at the Blue Ribbon Bakery coffee club. Bob and Dorothy rarely, if ever, missed a ballgame or track meet of their children and grandchildren’s events. They were there even if their children and grandchildren weren’t involved. Surviving are one daughter, Debra J. Johnson (Keith), Marshall, Mo.; six grandchildren, Kaleena Ross (Darin), Marshall, Mo., Molly Johnson (William), Kansas City, Mo., Evan Johnson (Crystal), Republic, Mo., Shawna Giannerini (A.J.), Grain Valley, Mo., Amber Bellinghausen (Andrew), Belton, Mo., and Kendra Lagoski (Jordan), Olathe, Kansas; six great-grandchildren, Konner Ross, Kora Ross, Benjamin Johnson, Abigail Johnson, Mason Parlette, Declan Bellinghausen, and one great-grandson due in July; two sisters, Betty Jo Lawler Wallo, Clinton, Mo., and Connie L. Green, Joplin, Mo.; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Dorothy was preceded in death by her son, Steven Kenney on June 29, 2002, and her brother, James E. Kimzey on June 9, 2016. Graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 2, 2022 at the Englewood Cemetery. Friends may call from noon to 8:00 p.m. Friday at the Bradley & Hadley Funeral Home, Clinton. The family suggests memorial contributions to the Henry County Memory Fund, and these donations may be left in care of the funeral home. Condolences may be left online at www.bradleyhadley.com.

From the desk of Butler Fire Chief Jason Bennett

Tornado warning 03/29/2022:

Regarding the recent storm warning on 03/29/2022: at 11:39 pm I was notified that the county of Bates was under a thunderstorm warning from 11:39 Tuesday to 12:15 am Wednesday morning.

At 11:44 pm Tuesday I was informed that the warning went from a thunderstorm warning to a tornado warning from 11:44 to 12:00 am. I then went out to monitor the storm myself and looking at our radar it showed the storm cell was around the Passaic area.

I went to the TT overpass to watch the storm for myself and in doing so I did not see any immediate threat to the citizens of Butler. I was in direct contact with the Pleasant Hill weather radar, and they could not confirm a tornado in our area just some radar indicated rotation.

The city of Adrian also was out watching and decided to not set their sirens off either. As per our operating procedures, It takes a radar indicated rotation and a confirmed sighting of a cloud lowering to sound the sirens in the city of Butler in order to not start a city-wide panic .

If visibility is limited to the point that cloud lowering is unable to be determined, yet there is radar indicated rotation sirens will be sounded. If ever in doubt we will err on the side of caution and sound the sirens.

Chief/EMD Jason Bennett

Obituary - Jackson Brock

Alva Jackson (Jack) Brock, passed away on Sunday, March 27, 2022 after a long illness. He was born January 28, 1940 at home in Deerfield, MO to Clarence G. Brock and Gladys Ripley Brock. He had two older sisters, Betty Beasley, and Anna Frances Jeans.

Jack was a lifelong resident of Vernon County where he spent his final days watching his beloved cows and sitting with his little dog, Bebe.

Jack graduated high school from Nevada and completed his Master’s Degree at Pittsburg State University in 1966. After teaching for a short time, he joined the Missouri Department of Vocational Rehabilitation where he spent his career, retiring in 1996. Later, he helped found On My Own, Inc. where he served as executive Director until he retired again in 2006. In 1960, he married Sarah Drury and they celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary.

Jack was a hardworking, cheerful, and kind man with an infectious grin and a mischievous sense of humor. He loved his family, his cattle, and his many dogs. He was an avid quail hunter in his younger days.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah and three children: his daughter, Jackie Leapheart, and two sons, Jeffrey Brock, and John Brock. Also surviving are seven grandchildren, Jacob Shouse, Tyler, Shouse, Lawrence Shouse, Caitlin Crock, Annelies Brock, Cole Brock, and Evan Brock; and nine great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends at a visitation to be held on Monday, April 4, 2022 from 7-8:00 p.m. at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.

Memorials are suggested in his name to the Parkinson’s Foundation c/o Ferry Funeral Home.

Regarding the decision not to activate storm sirens last night...

Mid America Live spoke with Adrian Fire Chief Gary Dizney regarding the decision not to activate storm sirens in Adrian last night and found the reason to be that the possible tornado was in fact 7 miles outside of town, moving away from the area.

The timeline:
11:37 P.M. Adrian Fire and Emergency Management Departments were dispatched and made aware of a severe thunderstorm warning
11:42 P.M. Bates County Dispatch advised of an updated duration time for the severe thunderstorm warning
11:44 P.M. Adrian Fire and Emergency Management Departments were dispatched for a tornado warning for the northwestern part of Bates County. The storm was reported by the National Weather Service and the storm cell that prompted the tornado warning was reported to be located seven miles south of Adrian and was moving east at 45 MPH. The possibility of rotation in this cell was radar indicated and prompted the warning.

A recap from Chief Dizney:
The Adrian Fire and Emergency Management Departments along with multiple other agencies, including the Bates County Sheriff’s Department, Butler Fire Department, trained firefighter storm spotters who were in the field monitoring the storm, and multiple firefighters who were in station keeping a watchful eye on radar- all of which were taking measures to ensure public safety as this was a fast moving, fast developing storm. There were just two minutes between the warning of a severe thunderstorm which was upgraded to a tornado warning, so we acted upon the information we were given and took the appropriate actions based on the information we had.
The tornado warning sirens were not activated for the City of Adrian because the radar indicated storm cell that prompted the tornado warning was reported to be seven miles south of Adrian and moving “east” at 45 MPH. The warning indicated possible rotation aloft but there were no reports of any actual tornado sightings.


Editor's note: As Spring storm season is upon us, the public can rest assured that our local fire departments and first responders make themselves readily available and keep 'an eye to the sky' as they are trained in keeping public safety at the forefront in every case.

From the Bates County Sheriff's Office

If you are signed up to receive the Textcaster weather alerts from the Bates County Sheriff's Office and did not receive a text last night regarding the tornado warning please email Jami Page with your name and phone number.

Her email is jpage@batescountysheriff.com. We need this information to send to Textcaster so they can find out why everyone did not receive the warning text last night.

Obituary - Charles Ernest Wells

Charles Ernest Wells, age 83, went to be with his heavenly father on Sunday, March 27, 2022. Charles was born on November 23, 1938 in Sioux City, Iowa. He was the son of Leland and Lauretta Wells.

He married Gwendolyn Wells in Lake Mills, Iowa on September 12, 1959. He graduated from the University of Iowa. He worked for AT&T and later worked for Sprint.

He loved his children and grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them. He is survived by his wife, Gwen and his three children: Tony Wells (Beth), Diane Adelsperger (Bob) and David Wells (Marcia), six grandsons: Andrew Adelsperger (Amelia), Daniel Wells, Seth Adelsperger (Arielle), Reagan Wells, Jonathan Wells and Brian Wells, two sisters: Marilee Adams and Jacqui Smith (Larry). He also had many loving nieces and nephews.

Chuck was an avid reader and loved learning about God’s creation. He enjoyed fishing, rock hunting, genealogy, walking, picking up pecans, and spending time with his family.

Charles was a life-long Christian, baptized as a teenager. His Christian faith was very important in his life and he instilled it in his family. He taught Sunday school for over 25 years. He was a member of several churches, most recently First Baptist Church in Clinton, MO.

The family is planning a service at Vansant-Mills Funeral Home at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the First Baptist Church (Clinton, MO) in support of the missions fund: “Acts one 8” and can be left in care of the funeral home.

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

Miami County Kansas Sheriff's Office Wanted Wednesday

Happy Retirement Paul

Harrisonville School District Superintendent Paul Mensching has announced his intention to retire at the end of the 2022-23 school year. He has served as the district’s superintendent since 2018.

“I am extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to serve as the Superintendent of the Harrisonville School District and as an educator for 29 years in the state of Missouri. As I reflect on my career, one of my proudest moments was the community coming together to pass the levy to increase salaries for our exceptional staff and a bond issue to improve the safety and maintenance of our facilities,” said Mr. Mensching. “Throughout my career, the greatest memories that I have involve students. From the simple joy of high school students enjoying a pep assembly after a two-year hiatus, to the chance to hear about the exciting kindergarten field trips, or the celebrated success of a national proficiency award winner, I am constantly amazed at what our students can and will do. The best that we are, or hope to be, are found in our children. Thank you for the opportunity to serve them.”

During his past four years as Superintendent of the Harrisonville School District, Mr. Mensching spearheaded efforts which led to the following:

*Development and implementation of the district’s strategic plan (Blueprint)
*Passage of Props I+N, a 50 cent levy increase to provide staff salary increases, and a $22.7 million bond issue
*Bond construction including major renovations and additions at Cass Career Center, improved safety and security at multiple buildings, much-needed updates to HVAC and roofs across the district, and new elementary playgrounds
*Improved collaboration and communication with our community partners including the City of Harrisonville and the Harrisonville Chamber of Commerce
*Strong financial stewardship through declining enrollment, uncertain economic conditions, and state budget cuts
*Ensuring educational stability and student and staff safety throughout a pandemic

He was recognized by the Harrisonville Chamber of Commerce as the Individual of the Year in 2020 and by the Missouri School Public Relations Association as the Administrator of the Year in 2021.
He has served as a member of the Harrisonville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors; President of the Harrisonville Kiwanis Club; a member of the city’s Economic Development Board, Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee, Mayor’s Advisory Council, and Enhanced Enterprise Zone Committee, a member of the Cass County Superintendents’ Association; a member of the Greater Kansas City Superintendents’ Association, the Missouri Association of School Administrators, and the American Association of School Administrators; and a member of the Missouri School Business Officials.

 
Board President Tina Graef said, “Paul Mensching is a man of integrity and honesty, and the Harrisonville School District was lucky to have a person of his caliber leading our district for the last four years. He has provided much needed consistency and transparency and was able to bring our district together in a way we hadn’t experienced in many years as a direct result of his exemplary leadership. His vision from the very beginning was to improve the culture in our buildings, increase pay to attract and retain quality, dedicated educators, and most importantly, to ensure our children receive the best education possible in an environment that is safe and allows all of them to grow and flourish. Paul has accomplished these things and so many more, effectively getting buy-in and support of the staff and the community and truly setting this district and our kids up for success. To say these have been challenging times is an understatement, yet through it all, he never lost sight of the fact that our kids come first. Always. I am privileged and honored to have worked beside him and am proud of everything he has accomplished. From his first day to his last, he is the example of making it a great day to be a Wildcat.”

Mr. Mensching has had 29 years in education. Prior to Harrisonville, he served as the superintendent in the East Buchanan C-1 School District for 10 years. He also served as the high school principal at Ralls County R-2, a social studies teacher, basketball coach, and athletic director at Monroe City R-2, and a social studies teacher and assistant football and basketball coach at Mexico.

At the Board of Education meeting last night, the Board approved a transition plan which includes hiring EGL Association to lead the search for a new superintendent which will begin in the fall.

Graef said, “The Board of Education will be using the services of EGL Association to conduct the search for superintendent over the course of several months. Dr. Todd White, a former superintendent for the Harrisonville School District, will lead the search process for EGL Association, beginning in September of 2022. He will conduct surveys in the community and with staff to determine what the expectations are for the superintendent along with direction from the board. After this information is gathered, he will advertise for the position locally and nationally. After a period of open advertisement, he will bring all qualified applications to the board and assist in the process of selection. The board will then interview the chosen candidates. Once the new superintendent has been hired, Dr. White will work with the board and Mr. Mensching to ensure the comprehensive entry plan of the new superintendent, the staff, and the community is successful.”

Mensching said, “The backbone of a great educational system are our teachers and support staff working in conjunction with supportive parents and community members. While this harmony is sometimes difficult to achieve in today’s climate, we have been able to capture that experience in Harrisonville. In order to keep that collective spirit strong, we have to strategically move forward together. I believe the succession plan approved by the Board of Education will pave the way for continued growth and improvement of our district.”

Miami High School Track News March 30th

Archie Track results:

Boys 4x800 relay 2nd place pictured

Kaleb Nelson, Nick Dusenberry , Kollin Tidman, Micah Link (not pictured)

Girls hurdles 6th place Sam Cook

Boys hurdles 8th place Kollin Tidman

Obituary - Amelia Sue Cain

Amelia Sue Cain, 80, of Jefferson City, passed away Monday, March 28, 2022 at Capital Region Medical Center. Sue was born on a small farm near Rich Hill, MO on October 31, 1941, the daughter of the late Floyd LaVern Littlefield and Mary Evelyn (Tinsley) Littlefield. She graduated from Rich Hill High School, Rich Hill, MO in 1959.

Sue went on to complete her Bachelors’ and Master of Economics degrees from the University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg MO where she taught economics for a few years. Warrensburg is also where she met her husband, James Edward Cain. They were united in marriage on December 29th, 1965. Together they moved to Norman, Oklahoma where they were accepted into the Doctorate program at Oklahoma University. There she earned a Doctorate in Economics, as well as becoming a life-long fan of Sooners football.

Sue loved Economics and teaching. In 1979 she moved to Richmond Kentucky where she taught Economics at Eastern Kentucky University. In 1995, she retired from teaching and worked in Marketing Research. Following the death of her husband, Sue moved back to the Littlefield family farm in Rich Hill, MO where she cared for her elderly mother until she passed. She enjoyed the tranquility of country living, but would eventually move to Jefferson City, MO.

Sue loved traveling and took summer trips with her sisters-in-law to many interesting destinations. Over the years she visited all fifty states. While on these trips, she would find interesting looking rocks which she generously collected and brought back to decorate her lawn and garden areas. She enjoyed reading interesting materials of all kinds and discussing her political views with those that would engage with her in the discussion. Sue had an engaging smile and witty sense of humor which was on display in most conversations. She enjoyed being with family and friends

Sue is survived by two children, Brenda Anne Cain of Nevada, MO and James Edward Cain, III of Jefferson City, MO and two granddaughters, Christina and Aubrey. She is also survived by one brother, Kenneth Warren Littlefield of Jefferson City, MO

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Edward Cain, her parents, Floyd and Mary (Tinsley) Littlefield, and one brother, Stephen Harry Littlefield.

Graveside funeral service will be held 12 noon Saturday, April 2, 2022 at the Green Lawn Cemetery, Rich Hill. Visitation will be held from 11 am to service time at the Heuser Funeral Home, Rich Hill. Online condolences can be left at www.heuserfunerals.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Rich Hill High School Future Business Leaders of America or the Nevada Animal Shelter.

Obituary - Carla Sue Gifford

Carla Sue Gifford passed away on March 25, 2022, at her home in Lowry City, Missouri, at the age of 65 after a courageous battle with cancer. Her loving mother Mary Atchison was at her side.

Born February 20, 1957 to Mary “Cleveland” and Perry “Dale” Atchison in Kansas City, Missouri. Carla graduated from Lowry City High School in 1975. Carla found the love of her life John Gifford in 1975, while working at “The Patio” Ice Cream Parlor in Lowry, City, Missouri. They joined hands in marriage on November 28, 1975. John and Carla were happily married for 40 years. Carla and John were blessed with two children, Michael Gifford in 1987, and Nathan Gifford in 1990.

Carla spent most of her career as a bookkeeper. She retired in 2022 from the county clerk’s office in the St. Clair County Courthouse.

Carla was a beloved and devoted wife, mother, daughter, and grandmother. She loved her family and especially loved spending time with her grandchildren. Carla enjoyed gardening, reading, and going to flea markets, auctions, and garage sales on the weekends.

Survivors include her mother, Mary Atchison of Lowry City, Missouri, a brother Jim Atchison, ( Kellie) of Lowry City, Missouri, two sons, Michael ( Kelsey ) Gifford of Deepwater, Missouri; Nathan (Katrina) Gifford of Lincoln, Missouri; and seven grandchildren; Wyatt, William, Whitlea, Waylon, Junior, Zachariah, and Harlie. She is also survived by her uncle Gerald (Dixie) Atchison of Clinton, Missouri; aunts Mary Jane Lightle of Springfield, Missouri, Oleta ( Charles) Atchison of Kansas City, Missouri, Pat ( Mark ) Cleveland of Osceola, Missouri. Sister-in-law Ginnie (Ralph) Schuck of Auburn, Washington; Linda (Charles W.) Gifford of Sumner, Washington; and nieces, nephews, and many cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 40 years John Gifford and her loving father Perry “Dale” Atchison; father and mother in-law Major and Viola Gifford of Washington State; grandparents Perry and Mary Atchison of Lowry City, Missouri, Vernon and Amy Cleveland of Osceola, Missouri; brother in-law Charles W. Gifford of Sumner, Washington; sister-in-law Alice Gifford Wellieder of New Mexico, Juanita Gifford Fouke of Auburn, Washington; uncle and aunt Bill and Penny Atchison; uncles Charles Atchison of Kansas City, Missouri, Mark Cleveland of Osceola, Missouri; special great-aunt Carrie Lacy of Lowry City, Missouri. Carla will be greatly missed by her family & friends.

Visitation:
Monday, March 28, 2022
10:00 - 11:00 AM
Sheldon-Goodrich Chapel

Service:
Monday, March 28, 2022
11:00 AM
Sheldon-Goodrich Chapel

Interment:
Lowry City Cemetery

Drexel Prom Information

Drexel Prom Information

Date: Saturday, April 2nd

Promenade in North Gym starting at 6 pm (Students, please arrive by 5:45pm)

Prom in Paola at Town Square Event Center: 7-11 pm: After Prom at Drexel School: 11:30 pm - 5 am

*Reminder to students- You must sign up in the office. Also, there is a $25 admission fee for underclassmen and out-of-district guests that must be paid by Friday

Obituary - Betty Ann Pritchard

Betty Ann Haley Pritchard, age 92, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away on March 26, 2022.

The daughter of William and Ethel Haley, Betty Ann was born on October 27, 1929, in Nevada, Missouri. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and graduated from Nevada High School. She attended Cottey College in Nevada and was a proud PEO. Betty Ann never tired of relating that she was named after a loaf of Betty Ann Bread.

On August 23, 1952, she married Harry Lewis Pritchard in Nevada. They had two sons, Daniel and Kevin. For many years, Betty Ann worked with Harry at his insurance and real estate business in Nevada-Pritchard Real Estate and Insurance. Harry predeceased Betty Ann on January 14, 1991. Betty Ann moved to Columbia, Missouri in January 2017.

Betty Ann was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Nevada, and St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Columbia.

Survivors include: two sons, Dan (Jan) of Columbia, and Kevin (Gail) of Tucson, Arizona; five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; her sister, Mary Muenchinger (Bill); and many nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her parents, her brothers Bill and Jim, and her grandson, Patrick.

Burial will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Nevada. Services will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 2, 2022, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Nevada. Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 1, 2022, at the Ferry Funeral Home Chapel in Nevada; the rosary will be prayed at 7:00 p.m. Donations, in lieu of flowers, may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 330 N Main, Nevada, MO, 64772, or to the choice of the donor.

Obituary - Jared Christopher Vinzant

Jared Christopher Vinzant, 32, Olathe, Kansas departed this life on Friday, March 25, 2022 at his home.

He is survived by his mother and step-father, Jessica and Michael McCartney of the home; 4 sisters, Eryn K. Vinzant, Overland Park, Kansas, Twila L Travis (Brooks), Republic, Missouri, Jessie Madrid, Sedalia, Missouri, Farren Stanley, Seattle, Washington; a niece, Alexis A. Voytko, Overland Park, Kansas; other relatives and many friends.

Cremation. A Memorial Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held 1:30 p.m., Thursday, April 28, 2022 at the Leavenworth National Cemetery, Leavenworth, Kansas.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 30, 2022 at the VFW Post 7397, 9550 Pflumm Road, Lenexa, Kansas 66215.

Family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Mission 22 - Treatment for PTSD for Veterans.

A complete obituary will be posted when it becomes available.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri.

From the Bates County Sheriff's Office

At approximately 535pm today the Sheriffs Office responded to check the welfare of a 14 year old walking through pasture property south of Butler. At approximately 545 we were notified that Butler Police Department had just put out a bulletin of a missing juvenile that matched the description of the 14 year old.

Because of the large area where the 14 year old was last seen, a multi-agency ground search was activated. Members of the Bates County Sheriff’s Posse, Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, Butler Fire, Butler Police, and Bates County Sheriff’s Office were all activated along with the area property owners to search the area. As equipment such as man power, 4 wheelers, UTVs, drones and horses began to arrive the 14 year old subject was located and returned safely to his family.

This shows the capabilities of our local emergency services and their ability to work together as one team to benefit our community.

Approximately 40 people arrived initially with another 20 to 30 additional volunteers loading equipment to respond. We would like to thank the property owners and public who helped with our efforts.

Obituary - Eleanor Jane (Muir) Gebo

Eleanor Jane (Muir) Gebo, age 98, passed away peacefully March 19, 2022 following a brief illness. Eleanor was born March 13, 1924 in Princess Anne, Maryland to John Mark Muir and Lillian Frances McGrath Muir. She was the second youngest of six children. Eleanor attended Princess Anne Elementary School, then studied at Washington High School (Princess Anne, MD) and Richard Montgomery High School (Rockville, MD) before returning to graduate from Washington High School.

Eleanor's interesting life included working in a shirt factory and clerking in a shoe store before she began a 26-year career with C&P Telephone Company where she retired in 1982. On Christmas Day 1942 Eleanor married the love of her life, Donald George Gebo, at St. Peters Episcopal Church in Princess Anne, Maryland, and the couple then moved to Baltimore, MD, where they made their home for 40 years. Their only child, Patricia Ann Gebo (Carson), was born on January 31, 1945. In retirement, Eleanor and Don Gebo moved back to the suburbs of Princess Anne where they lived for eleven years. Following Don's death in 1988 Eleanor moved to Butler, Missouri, to be near her daughter and grandchildren.

Eleanor remained active in the Butler community until her mid '90s, attending weekly services at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Butler, playing cards with friends, and donating many hours of service each week to her community. Her heart's work was volunteering at the gift shop at Bates County Memorial Hospital and dispatching for the Senior Taxi Service in Butler.

Eleanor (Auntie) was very religious and spent the last twenty months with her niece, Suzzanne Bilo, her husband David, and their daughters Rachel and Kristina, reading her bible, doing word searches, corresponding with friends and family, knitting, watching boats as they sailed by, and enjoying her daily glass of wine. She lived her life according to Ephesians 4:32 — "And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ."

Eleanor was predeceased by her husband, parents and all her siblings, John Muir, Jr., Bessie Bloodsworth, Edwina Martin, Edna Hight and Robert Muir; and by her daughter Patricia (Gebo) Carson.

Eleanor is survived by her grandchildren Leslie, Jim, and John Carson; three great grandchildren John, Jr., Courtney, and Jacob and four great, great grandchildren Zane, Jade, Carson and Courtney; nieces Suzzanne Bilo, Stacey Muir, Kerry Daniel and nephews Gary and John Muir, Hugh Martin, numerous other nieces and nephews, and her devoted friend and neighbor, Jim Lewis, who she frequently said was the "son I never had."

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, April 1, 2022 at Hinman Funeral Home in Princess Anne, MD where friends may call one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at All Saints Monie Cemetery in Venton, MD.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Butler Senior Citizens' Center at 611 West Mill Street, Butler, MO 64730. To express condolences to the family, visit www.hinmanfuneralhome.com

Four hurt in Barton County crash

On March 29th around 2:25 p.m. the Missouri State Highway Patrol in Barton County along with Barton County Sheriff's Office responded to a one vehicle accident on NW 1st Lane around 3 miles north of Lamar, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the accident occurred when the 2003 Lexus driven by 20 year old Hannah M. Garren of Sheldon, Missouri lost control on a gravel road, traveled off the left side of the roadway and overturned.

Hannah M. Garren along with three other people in the vehicle 25 year old William R. Howard of Nevada, Missouri, A 2 year old female and a  year old male all sustained minor injuries in this accident and all were transported to Cox Barton County Hospital for treatment.

View crash report below: 

https://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/HP68/AccidentDetailsAction?ACC_RPT_NUM=220156093

Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued

National Weather Service has just issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for our area till Midnight tonight.

A severe thunderstorm watch means that conditions are favorable for a severe thunderstorm to develop. Those in or near the watch area should: Be alert for changes in weather conditions. 

Monitor local radio, television networks, or your weather alert radio for further potential developments.

We need your help!

D&Z storage It's offering a $1000 Reward for recovery of the stolen camper It is a 27' 2000 Trail light 

We believe the truck pulling it is a 150 Ford 4 door with a camper shell. 

Please Message us or call the Harrisonville Police Department The number is 816-380-8940.

Pleasant Hill Railroad Days Car Show

Obituary - Paula Marie Still

Paula Marie Still, 71, of Peculiar, MO passed away on Monday, March 28, 2022 at Research Medical Center in Kansas City, MO.

Funeral service will be on Friday, April 1, 2022 at 11:00am at First Baptist Church in Peculiar, Missouri with visitation from 10:00-11:00am at the church.

Full obituary will be posted when available.

 

Obituary - William Harrison Wisnosky

Bill Wisnosky's wishes were to be cremated. Memorial services will be at a later date. Arrangements under direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

William “Bill” Harrison Wisnosky, age 93 of Appleton City, Missouri died Sunday, March 27, 2022 at Medicalodge of Butler in Butler, Missouri. He was born August 22, 1928 to Andrew and Agnes De Lamater Wisnosky in Cleveland, Ohio.

Bill is survived by his wife, Margaret Wisnosky of Appleton City, Missouri; two daughters, Veronica “Vicki” Roberts and husband Robert of Kansas City, Missouri and Beth Ann Ridney and husband Matt of Prosper, Texas; four sons, Bill Wisnosky and wife Betty of North Little Rock, Arkansas, Albert Gatavasky and wife Mary of San Diego, California, Steven Wisnosky and wife Lori of Santee, California and David Wisnosky and wife Joyce of Mesa, Arizona; two local grandchildren, 1) Tawnya Greenwood and husband Andrew and their children Parker, Savanna, and Desirae of Kansas City, Missouri and 2) Danny Roberts and wife Shannon and their children AJ and Reagan of Kansas City, Kansas. Bill was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Karl Wisnosky; and one daughter, Norma Jean Stoker.

Reminder: Bridge closed in rural Butler

The bridge over Root Branch on NE CR 4003 approximately 1.5 miles South of “H” highway will be taken out started yesterday March 28th.

The bridge should take somewhere around 90 days or so to replace. We will keep you updated on the progress of this project. 

Obituary - Margaret Taylor Scott

Margaret Taylor Scott, long time Nevada resident, passed away Monday, March 28, 2022, at Moore Few Care Center. She was born to Roy E. and Bertha M. (Wilson) Taylor December 29, 1929.

Margaret, often known as Doty, was the fourth of five children born on the family farm. Her parents, sisters; Helen Gast, Marjory Gast, Dorothy Tyer, and brother Roy Taylor preceded her in death. Married to Glenn O. Scott they had a daughter Rosemary Larsen who survives. Margaret was beloved by her Gast, Taylor, Scott and Tyer nephews and nieces.

She proudly graduated second in her class from Nevada High School and began a long career in various secretarial positions at Western Insurance, Missouri Welfare, MO State Hospital and NRMC Clinics until retirement. Introduced to Episcopal Church services through high school glee club, she joined All Saints Episcopal Church in later years and was active in the alter guild sewing cushions still used today at the communion rail.

Margaret was passionate about gardening and surrounded herself with colorful daylilies and irises. She had a tender heart for animals and until recently always had a dog or two or more.

Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced later.

In leu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Episcopal Relief & Development care of Ferry Funeral

The Museum Minute: Don’t vote for the wrong guy

Courtesy of the Bates County Museum 802 Elks Drive, Butler Mo 64730
(660) 679-0134 Herrman’s Historical Happenings week of March 30

1888 The full extent of last night’s blast and fire at Keith & Perry’s coal mine #6, near Rich Hill is being assessed. 20 are dead, 15 missing and several unaccounted for. Most died of suffocation in the mine 6 miles from Rich Hill.

1889 Adrian is abuzz over the prospect of a college coming to their town.

1911 Today’s issue of the Butler Weekly Times is dated March 33, 1911.

1945 Tonight and tomorrow at Fisk Theater, in Butler Roy Rogers in “Lights of Old Santa Fe”.

1955 Ada O’Rear, Home Economist for the Osage Valley Electric Cooperative, is seen on the Bea Johnson Show, KMBC-TV channel 9 in Kansas City.

1960 3,503,600 bushels of corn were harvested last fall, in Bates county compared to 1,731,170 bushels picked in 1940.

1972 The Bates Co Democrat runs a paid political advertisement for Leslie White, candidate for fourth ward councilman, however, the picture in the ad is Eddie Herrman, candidate for city tax collector, Butler.

1978 See or call Ron Gardner, he’s got the gasoline with the additives that makes a difference in your engines. MFA Oil Company, Butler.

1999 The Bates County Memorial Hospital honors its active staff of physicians: Dr Curtis Long, 35 years; Dr William Hayne, 35 years; Dr Robert Strobach, 35 years; Dr Jeffery VanBiber, 12 years; and Dr Jim Miller, 1 year.

Bates County Real Estate Transfers and Marriage Licenses

Transactions week of March 21-25

Bolton, Nina to Armstrong, Jennifer Lynn Lt 1 Bl 4 Atkison Park Addn P3/10+

Fischer, Kyle to John 3:30 Farms Llc Str 23-39-31+

Umstattd, Kevin to Urbanowitz, Joshua Str 22-40-31 //Ne+

Fox, Jerry to Brown, Andrew Lt 2 Bl 3 Cogswells Addn+

Beyer, Emil A. to Beyer Farms. Llc Str 20-41-32 //Ne+

Bates County Disposal, Inc. to Cleveland Affordable Storage, Llc Str 3-39-33 //Ne+

Cleveland Affordable Storage, Llc to Cleveland Affordable Storage, Llc Str 3-39-33 //Ne+

Cleveland Affordable Storage, Llc to Ward, Jeffrey Str 3-39-33 //Ne+

Standard Properties, Llc to Stutts, Tyler J Lt 9 Bl 18 West Side Addn

Marquardt, Marcelle L Trust 04-30-1996 to Stewart, John D Jr Str 16-38-30 //Sw

Jlp Land Developers, Llc to Parks Builders, Llc Lt 15 Whispering Oaks

Stines-Stoneman, Memori D. to Coffey, John Str 6-41-29 //Nw

Lapour, Steven to 113 S. Orange, Llc Str 22-40-31

Bowden, Stephen to Holmes, Leann Lt 16 Bl 1 Atkison Park Addn P3/10

Kisner, Danny to Rhyno Tire, Llc Lt 1 Bl 16 West Side Addn+

Taylor, Scott L to Freedom Hawk Home Buyers Inc Lt 9 Bl 35 Rich Hill, Original Town Of+

Kagarice, Luke to Hawkins, Robert Str 19-42-29 //Se

White, Christopher D. to White, Christopher D. Lt 19 Glenbrook Farms

Burch, Leland O. to Burch, Leland O. Trust 03-08-2005 Str 25-41-32 //Sw

Burch, Leland O. to Burch, Leland O. Trust 03-08-2005 Str 30-41-31 //Sw

Klumb, Henry Otto Trust 08-16-2007 to Haynie, David Wade Lt 1 Bl 11 West Side Addn+

Mardon Trust 08-16-2005 to Mardon Trust 08-16-2005 Str 19-39-33 //Ne

Grant, W.E. Trust 07-06-2007 to Davis Designs Construction Company, Llc Lt 1 Bl 1 Thompsons Addn

Marriage license: 

Allison, Dylan Ryan and Cumpton, Eva Mae

What's Up by LeRoy Cook

Non Culpa For Boeing Test Pilot

There was considerable traffic in and out of the Butler airport last week, with a wide assortment of aircraft types and missions. March came in cool and seems to be going out at about the same way, but there were some decent flying conditions for the travelers.

Among the visitors on Friday was one of the FAA’s Beech King Air 300 Flight Check turboprops, flying the instrument approach profiles precisely to do their periodic inspections, making sure there were no new obstructions or signal errors. A Piper Pawnee sprayplane was in from Miller, Missouri, applying nutrients to the local fields. David Bradley was over from Bonneville in a Cessna Skyhawk on business and a nice 1958 Piper Comanche 180 was also here.

The Fliars club breakfast flyout netted a total of six Fliars on Saturday morning, enjoying a nice post-cold front sky with 40-mile visibility. Other local pilots out were Kenion Nance in the Cessna Skyhawk, Eric Eastland making a shop run in a Cessna 150, and Jeremie Platt, flying his Grumman Tiger to Warrensburg and Paola. Chris Hall was busy checking out a new pilot in the Beech King Air E90 jump plane.

In other news of the week, a jury found Robert Forkner, a former Boeing test pilot on the 737 MAX project, not guilty of intentionally misleading FAA certification personnel about the aircraft. As we pointed out before, the FAA has neither the time or resources to check every detail of a complex transport airplane, so it has to rely on manufacturers’ data for much of the process. Forkner testified that he was simply a scapegoat for the company and the FAA, and the jury agreed.

 

Another aviation pioneer passed away on March 13th, when Bob Cardenas died at 102. He was the pilot of the “mother ship” Boeing B-29 that carried Chuck Yeager and the Bell X-1 rocket plane aloft over Muroc dry lake in 1948, dropping them to break the sound barrier for the first time. Cardenas was an experienced bomber in WW-II, evading capture after being shot down on his 20th mission.

Our weekly question wanted to know what other aviation products were created by inventor Bill Lear, mostly known for developing the Lear Jet business jet. 

Rodney Rom told us Lear also created an automatic direction finder, numerous avionics and the first lightplane automatic pilot. For next week, tell us the name of a cowboy movie star who also flew his own airplane. Send your replies to kochhaus1@gmail.com

Three Generations of Firefighters

IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY Doug Wix, grandson Brayton Wix and son Jason Wix, all members of the Butler Fire Department, assembled for this photo recently as Brayton was officially hired March 23rd and now is going through basic firefighter training. Doug and Jason are both firefighters and EMT Captains and have been with the department 35 and 22 years respectively.

Annual Butler Chamber Banquet: A Night of Food, Fun and Fundraising

The annual Butler Chamber of Commerce banquet was held Thursday evening featuring a delicious dinner, auction and guest speaker Melody Thornton, owner of KMAM/KMOE-FM radio station. Thornton provided an upbeat history of the station which

Melody Thornton, KMAM/
KMOE-FM Radio

almost didn’t land in Butler, but could have been in Colorado Springs CO as her father and founder Bill Thornton considered setting up shop there when searching for a home. No regrets, said Melody as she shared not only the roots of Butler radio, but some interesting tidbits about on-air gaffs and fun behind the scenes. Throughout the evening, attendees placed silent bids on a wide variety of donated items ranging from all kinds of gift baskets and more, while a ‘mystery basket’ was auctioned off by Chamber President Greg Weaver. Likewise, new board members Doug Lawrence and Chamber Executive Secretary Karen Rayborn were recognized along with member business owners as follows: 5 years- Carpenter’s Cup; Burch & Liles; Precast KCMW; The Tilted Tulip; 10 years- Mid America Live and Farmer’s Insurance; 15 years- Family Center; 20 years- Ready Concrete and Friedrich Law; 25 years- Edward Jones; 35 years- DSWA; 60 years- Bates County Broadcasting and Bates County Memorial Hospital. 

The Butler Chamber of Commerce has a full schedule of events this year, there's a lot to look forward to in 2022!

Obituary - Jerry Leon Eagles

Jerry Leon Eagles, age 72, of Clinton, Missouri passed away on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at Clinton Healthcare and Rehab. Center in Clinton, Missouri. 

Memorial service will be held at 11:30 AM on Friday April 1, 2022 at Vansant-Mills Chapel in Clinton with visitation from 10:30-11:30 prior to the service. Memorial contributions can be made to The Arbor Day Foundation and can be left in care of the funeral home.

Jerry Leon Eagles was born in Kansas City, Kansas on November 21, 1949 to Floyd and Melba Eagles.

Jerry went to Turner High School. He met Cynthia Willard at Bethany Medical Center and they were married on December 24th, 1976. To this union, one child was born, Tara Renae.

Jerry worked as an electrician at Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare from 1979-2015. Jerry was a Christian. He attended and was a member of the Golden Valley Christian Church in Clinton, Missouri. He loved watching Chiefs football, enjoyed fishing, gardening, working in the yard and mowing, and the fourth of July holiday.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Melba Eagles and his two brothers, Mike and Robert.

Survivors include his wife Cindy of the home, daughter Tara (Dave), 3 siblings; Dale Eagles, Chuck Eagles, and Linda Farnham, and a host of co-workers and friends.

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

Do you have any books you no longer want?

Strong to severe storm possible tonight

Severe weather is possible tonight across eastern KS and western MO.
Damaging winds and hail are the main concerns, but can't rule out a brief tornado or two.

Make sure you stay updated on the forecast and have multiple ways to receive warnings. #KCwx #mowx #kswx