Wednesday, August 31, 2022

Adrian Blackhawk FFA News

Adrian FFA Chapter President Maggie Stark spoke at the annual Bates County Farm Bureau meeting tonight. 

Maggie recapped the amazing year the Adrian FFA had in 2021-22. She also spoke on all the opportunities we are looking for in the coming year. 

Thank you Bates County Farm Bureau for allowing her to speak and for the continued support of the FFA.

Cass County Sheriff's Rodeo coming up soon

 

Obituary - John Gregory Gray

John Gregory Gray, age 60, a former resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas and more recently of Stockton, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, August 30, 2022, in Stockton. 

He was born August 21, 1962, in Jonesboro, Arkansas, the son of Thirle Gray and Luella Green Gray. John graduated from high school in Jonesboro and went to college at Ft. Scott Community College on a baseball scholarship.

While in Ft. Scott, he met his future wife, Jill Reinecker. John and Jill were married on August 6, 1983, and together they had three daughters, Bailey, Afton and Delane. 

John worked as a territory manager for Lifetouch National School Studios for many years. Among a number of recognitions during his career in the school photo industry, John was awarded territory manager of the year in 2002 and again in 2005, a distinguished honor that he was proud of.

John was good hearted, engaging, and charismatic. He will be remembered for his outgoing and likeable personality and his ability to make friends with anyone - he didn’t know a stranger. John was an avid sportsman, both as a competitor and a spectator, and he loved the outdoors. He enjoyed golfing, shooting pool, hunting, boating, and camping. 

He was an enthusiastic fan of the KU Jayhawks, the Kansas City Chiefs, and any team his daughters or grandkids were playing on. John had recently retired to Stockton, Missouri to enjoy life on the lake. He treasured his relationships with his Lifetouch friends and golfing buddies, and above all, he loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include his daughters, Bailey Lyons (Nate), Afton Hyer (Coy) and Delane Godden (Brady) and six grandchildren, Addison, Jhett, Jaxon, Blaise, Lute and True all of Ft. Scott. Also surviving are his former wife, Jill Ruby of Ft. Scott; a sister, Karletta Burrows (Steve) of Jonesboro, Arkansas and numerous, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thirle and Luella Gray.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, September 8th at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Private burial will take place at a later date in the Swifton Cemetery in Swifton, Arkansas.

Memorials are suggested to St. Mary’s Catholic School, where all of his girls went to school, and his grandchildren currently attend. They may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to then online guestbook at cheneywitt.com. 

From the Bates County Assessor’s Office

From the Bates County Assessor’s Office. We are accepting applications for a part time position in our office. Come by office for application. Will be 3 days a week 8:30-4:30.


Obituary - Devin Charles Darby

Devin Charles Darby, 24, of Peculiar, Missouri, died Wednesday, August 24, 2022, in Kansas City, Missouri, due to a tragic accident. He was born October 10, 1997, in Independence, Missouri. 

Devin was a 2016 graduate of Adrian High School and a proud member of Local 533 Pipefitters Union. Devin worked alongside his dad, Tim, and many friends at US Engineering. 

He was in his fourth year of his apprenticeship. Devin was united in marriage to the love of his life, Brittany (DeCavele), just a short year and three months ago, on May 1, 2021. They found their happy place and made their home in Peculiar with their two dogs Juliet and Willow Jane.

To be in Devin’s presence, you were smiling and laughing. His contagious smile and hilarious sense of humor lit up every room he entered. Anytime Devin held a baby his eyes lit up. He loved his nieces, nephews and cousins with a passion. He was a big kid himself, always cracking jokes and “picking” at almost everyone he came in contact with. He had the biggest heart and could relate to anyone and whatever situation they found themselves in.

Devin had a zest for life and he and Brittany wasted no time. You could find them at Chiefs games, Royals games, bbq events, traveling, just chilling with friends in the backyard. Devin loved to smoke bbq and cook, much like his mom. He had a full lineup on his back patio: a grill, a Blackstone, and a Traeger. He even had aspirations at opening his own bbq shack, so he had been experimenting with creating his own sauces and spices. Devin was also an avid outdoorsman. He loved his hunting trips with his dad and best friend, Jake, and his dad’s best friend, Mark. Two dads and two sons, all lifelong friends. He loved fishing, hiking, relaxing on the beach, just being with nature. To know Devin was to love Devin.

Devin was preceded in death by his grandfather, Lynn Scoles; his grandmother, Linda Hightower; his grandfather, Larry Hightower; grandfather Richard Eugene Cowan; cousin Samuel Scoles; niece Kinsley Cowan; Godson Malcolm West.

Devin is survived by his wife Brittany, and their two dogs Juliet and Willow Jane. Despite Devin’s wishes, they will probably sleep in our bed for years to come. Devin is also survived by his father Tim (Shelby) Darby; mother Kelly (Larry) Cowan; mother-in-law Cynthia Creek; father-in-law Brian (Kimberly) DeCavele; siblings: Brittany Darby (Travis); Shealey Mead (Jarome); Cooper Mead (Katie); Dustin (Lindsey) Cowan; Elizabeth (Joseph) Ortiz; brothers-in-law Tyler and Trey DeCavele; sisters-in-law Tori and Trista DeCavele; nieces and nephews: Easton, Gracie, Marlee, Westen, Laiklyn, Kade Mossy, Sophia and Joseph; goddaughter Olivia West; Grandparents: Coleman (Trudy) Darby, Joyce Darby, Evart and Becky Cage, Connie Scoles, Francis Cowan; grandmother-in-law Vicki (Burly) Fennel; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and countless friends.

A celebration of Devin’s life will be held on Friday, September 2nd, 2022.

Service: 1-2pm
Celebration of life (visitation): 2-4pm

The City House (Church of the Four Corners) 14300 E. US Hwy 40, Kansas City, MO 64136.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Missouri Disabled Sportsmen www.missouridisabledsportsmen.org or checks may be mailed to Randy Walker: 47701 Maverick Pl. Leonard, MO 63451

Subject flees from police on foot in Warsaw

At approximately 11:30 am Warsaw Police Officers attempted to apprehend a subject with an outstanding felony warrant for Burglary. The subject exited a vehicle and fled on foot.

A search was conducted and the School Resource Officer was contacted due to the proximity to Warsaw North School.

The driver of the vehicle was arrested and charges are pending for Hindering Prosecution. The vehicle was towed by Law Enforcement. The subject is not believed to pose a threat to society at this time.

The subject who fled from Officers earlier today is Gary Shafton. He has a no bond felony warrant for Burglary. 

If you see him, please contact Benton County Central Dispatch at (660)438-9555.

Defending 8-man football champions the Drexel Bobcats home opener this week against Lockwood

The defending Missouri 8-Man High School State Football Champions the Drexel Bobcats will host the Lockwood Tigers this Thursday night at the home opener for the cats.

The champs traveled to Liberal last week and beat the bulldogs by a final score of 62-8 in a pretty one sided game. 

Drexel Senior Quarterback Jacob Coffey was dominate on the ground and Ethan Dayringer added 3 touchdowns (2 receiving, 1 rushing and a pick 6 on Defense). 

Lockwood will be looking to get into the win column and knock the champs off at home as the Tigers from Lockwood lost last week to Archie with a 68-24.

If you can't make it to Drexel and you still wanna watch this game you can catch it using the link below:

Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1207763306456250?ref=newsfeed











Story wrote by Curtis Vail II 

Two Bates County Route B Bridges CLOSED East of Rich Hill for Replacement Beginning Week of Sept. 12th

 Bates County – Two Bates County Route B bridges, one over the Marais des Cygnes River and the other over the Bates County Drainage Ditch east of Rich Hill will be CLOSED for up to 360 days beginning the week of September 12, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

Contractor crews will replace the old bridges with new structures as well as installing new barrier wall and guardrail at the ends of the bridges. Both new bridges will be four feet wider than the current structures. In addition, the new Drainage Ditch bridge will be 40 feet longer than the current one.

 

Work will be done on only one bridge at a time beginning with the bridge over the Drainage Ditch.

 

Traffic impacts:

  • All lanes of Route B CLOSED where crews are working
  • Drivers will be able to access entrances on either end of the bridge, but will not be able to travel through the work zone
  • Drivers will be directed along a signed detour using Bates County Route N, Missouri Route 52, I-49 and Route B
  • Drivers urged to find alternate routes around work zone
  • Signs and message boards will alert drivers approaching the work zone
  • Check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map for road closings/traffic impacts

 

Weather and/or scheduling delays will alter the work schedule.

 

The bridge over the Marais des Cygnes River was built in 1937 and the bridge over the Bates County Drainage Ditch was built in 1952. Both bridges carry nearly 580 vehicles per day.

 

This contract also includes rehabilitation of the Bates County Route BB bridge over the South Deepwater Branch east of Butler. That work began in early August and is currently underway.

 

Project background:

·         Prime Contractor: Phillips Hardy Inc., Columbia

·         Completion Date: December 1, 2023

·         Total project cost: $6.4 million


I-49 Connector Project Among Regional Winners in National Competition

August 31, 2022—For immediate release

I-49 Connector Project Among Regional Winners in National Competition

WASHINGTON—Seven state department of transportation projects in Arkansas (along with Missouri), Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia won regional awards in the 2022 America's Transportation Awards competition. The contest honored projects that benefit their communities in several ways, such as providing new pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure to connect to a widely used trail in Northern Virginia and improving safety and efficiency for drivers in Arkansas and Missouri along a busy interstate corridor, among many others.

Missouri Department of Transportation’s project in McDonald County was among the winners: the I-49 Missouri-Arkansas Connector completed the final five miles of Interstate 49 from Pineville to the Arkansas border on the Missouri side of the project. This included building two conventional bridges, one along northbound I-49 over southbound U.S. 71, and the second at Missouri Route 90 over I-49. In addition, a diamond interchange was built at Route 90 crossing I-49. The completed portion in Arkansas consists of 14.3 miles of 4 lane divided highway built to interstate standards that includes 4 new interchanges. The completion of this link finished a 290-mile section of I-49 and eliminated six stoplights.

"State DOTs are overwhelmingly focused on innovative solutions to address the transportation issues of today and tomorrow, meeting challenges involving climate change, equity, resiliency, and safety," said Jim Tymon, executive director of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. "The America's Transportation Awards program shows just how they're doing that. Whether on foot, in a vehicle, on two wheels, or by rail or transit, state DOTs are continuing to advance a safe, multimodal transportation system."

Sponsored by AASHTO, AAA, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the competition recognizes state DOTs and the projects they deliver to make communities better places to live, work, and play. Project nominations fall into one of three categories: Operations Excellence, Best Use of Technology & Innovation, and Quality of Life/Community Development.

All nominated projects will first compete on a regional level against projects of their own size: "Small" (projects costing up to $25 million), "Medium" (projects costing between $25 million and $200 million), and "Large" (projects costing more than $200 million).

In the Southern Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (SASHTO) region, nine states nominated 22 projects in the 2022 America's Transportation Awards contest. The following seven projects took home top regional honors:

· Virginia Department of Transportation — Chatham Bridge Rehabilitation and Shared Use Path Project (Quality of Life/Community Development, Small category)

· Virginia Department of Transportation — I-66 Inside the Beltway Eastbound Widening Project (Quality of Life/Community Development, Medium category)

· Arkansas Department of Transportation and Missouri Department of Transportation — Interstate 49 Missouri-Arkansas Connector (Quality of Life/Community Development, Large category)

· West Virginia Department of Transportation — Oakwood Drive RCUT Project (Operations Excellence, Small category)

· Georgia Department of Transportation — Talbotton Road Project: Capacity, Pedestrian and Transit Improvements (Operations Excellence, Medium category)

· Tennessee Department of Transportation — Hernando de Soto Bridge Emergency Repairs (Best Use of Technology & Innovation, Small category)

· South Carolina Department of Transportation — U.S. 21 over Harbor River Bridge Replacement Project (Best Use of Technology & Innovation, Medium category)

Now that all regional winners in the competition have been announced, the three highest scoring projects from each region will be named the "Top 12" on September 7 and will go on to compete for the top two national prizes in the 2022 America's Transportation Awards competition.

An independent panel of industry judges selects the Grand Prize winner, while the project receiving the highest number of online votes from the public earns the People's Choice Award.

AASHTO will reveal the winners of those top two prizes – each receiving $10,000 to donate to a charity or scholarship of their choice – at its 2022 annual meeting this October in Orlando.

MoDOT has won 12 regional ATA awards since 2010 and won the 2010 Grand Prize for The New I-64 project and the 2013 People’s Choice Award for the Safe & Sound Bridge Improvement Program. The Southwest District was a 2021 Operations Excellence Regional Winner for the I-44 Project Bridge Rebuild project, and nominee for the 2018 Grand Prize for the Route 65: The Rebuild project.

AASHTO Transportation TV highlighted the 2022 SASHTO nominees and winners in a video available at this link: youtu.be/_NHPR3RJThw. Visit americastransportationawards.org to learn more about this year's SASHTO nominees.

Miami County Kansas Sheriff's Office Wanted Wednesday

 


Home Opener for the Butler Bears this Friday

The roar will be back in Butler Friday Night as the 1-0 undefeated Butler Bears host the Sherwood Marksmen's in high school football action.

The Bears got off to a excellent start with a 55-25 win over the Clinton Cardinals last Friday in Clinton. 

Butler will look to lean on Senior running back Brendin Patrick who had 291 yards rushing and 5 touchdowns in the victory over Clinton.

The Sherwood Marksmen are coming off a close loss 26-20 to the Holden Eagles Friday night in a very tough and good football game. 

Sherwood will be looking to take the bears down as Butler has had the Marksmen's number for a few seasons now. 

If you can't make it to the game be sure to watch it from home the Prepcast link that we provide below:



Story wrote by Curtis Vail II 

Obituary - Kent Dale Troester

In God's perfect timing, Kent Dale Troester, 58, of Lee's Summit, Missouri passed away peacefully on Friday, August 26, 2022 while at The University of Kansas Health Center in Kansas City, KS. Visitation will be September 1, 2022 beginning at 5:30 PM, with the Celebration of Life service following at 7:00 PM at Journey Church International (JCI), 1601 MO-150 Hwy, Lee's Summit, MO.

Kent was born to Jerry and Bev Troester in Tucson, Arizona on October 17, 1963. He was baptized at Faith Lutheran Church in Tucson. He grew up in St Joseph, Missouri, where he excelled not only in academics but also in numerous athletics, including track, cross country, basketball and diving. His determination, eagerness and perseverance vested him well as he graduated with high academic honors and was awarded the Spartan Award for Outstanding Male Athlete from Central High School.

Kent graduated magna cum laude from the University of Missouri in1986 with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. His determination in academics was rewarded with many honors, such as the collegiate National Honors Society and Dean's list. He also received a degree in Information Technology from Missouri Western State University in 1987. He spent his professional career in computer science specializing in programing and software development.

Kent enjoyed walking, running, reading, movies, going out to dinner, doing puzzles with his wife, taking trips and cruises and vacationing numerous times in Santa Barbara, California, where he enjoyed sailing, kayaking, riding bikes and segways. The most important thing in Kent's adult life, besides his love for his wife and family, was his commitment to the Lord. He led many bible studies, memorized numerous verses and was a prayer warrior, especially for those in need. Because of his commitment to the Lord, we are comforted in knowing that Kent still lives because he lives lovingly with Jesus.

Kent is preceded in death by his father, Jerry. He is survived by his wife, Shelly; step-son, Austin White; his mother, Bev; his siblings: Dave (Tracie) Troester, Mark Troester, and Crista Troester; as well as, his brother-in-law, Bruce Smith and sister-in-law, Sherri (Mark) Blahnik. In addition, he has 2 nieces, 4 nephews and his extended family. Kent will be deeply missed by the many people who loved him!

Donations may be made to Journey Church International where Kent volunteered as an usher, participated in the Next Step Program and helped as a leader of the Celebrate Recovery Program (CR). Celebrate Recovery, a program aimed at all hurts, habits and hang-ups, was very dear to Kent's heart. After participating in the program at another church, Kent was thrilled to see the program start at JCI. Kent was a person of compassion who lived his life serving others. God welcomed him into Heaven saying, "Well done, my good and faithful servant".

Adrian Blackhawks Football team looking to stay undefeated this week at Slater

The Adrian Blackhawks will make the little over 2 hour trip to play the Slater Wildcats this Friday night in high school football action.

The Blackhawks are coming off a very dominating win 55-8 over the Windsor Greyhounds. Adrian will need to be on their game as Slater defeated Cass Midway last Friday 38-14.

This should be a good game if you and the family wanna make the trip to Slater on a Friday night. IF you would rather stay home you can watch the game on Prepcast by using the link we provided for you below.

Link: https://team1sports.com/prepcasts/

Story wrote by Curtis Vail II 

NEED A JOB? Love the outdoors?

 

KMT Services of Adrian Mo needs help and the quicker the better! If you enjoy being outdoors and desire to work for a great company KMT is for you. Call Steve 816-803-7863 or Tyler 660-679-7117 to get the ball rolling!

Rich Hill hosting Jasper this week in High School Football action

The Rich Hill Tigers will look to get on the winning track as they host the Jasper Eagles this Friday night in 8-man football action.

The Tigers made a long bus ride north to Albany, Missouri last week to take on the Warriors, which didn't exactly turn out how the tigers had hoped with Albany winning 62-8.

The early schedule for the tigers doesn't get any easier starting this week with the Jasper Eagles who beat the Osceola Indians 40-8 last week and will look to improve to 2-0 Friday night in Rich Hill. 

This will be a tough test for the young tigers team! 

If you can't make it to Rich Hill for the game be sure you watch the it on the Prepcast link we provide for you below:

Go Tigers!!!!


Story wrote by Curtis Vail II 

Liberal man seriously injured in Barton County motorcycle crash

On August 30th around 6:55 p.m. the Missouri State Highway Patrol in Barton County along with Barton County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a motorcycle accident involving a deer on Route K around 4 miles north of Liberal.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the accident occurred when the 1983 Honda Shadow driven by 30 year old Marcus D. Wolf of Liberal, Missouri struck and deer in the roadway and overturned.

Mr. Wolf was seriously injuries in this accident and he was transported to Freeman West Hospital in Joplin for treatment.

View crash report below:
https://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/HP68/AccidentDetailsAction?ACC_RPT_NUM=220464084

Wildcats looking for a win on the road against the Spoofhounds


Friday night the Harrisonville Wildcats take on the Maryville Spoofhounds in High school football action in Maryville. This will be the 8th meeting on the gridiron between the two school's. Harrisonville leads the series 4-3.

Harrisonville won the first three meetings, then dropping the next three contests.

Harrisonville won last year's game at home 28-20. Let's see if the Cats can keep their winning streak over Maryville going as they head to the "Hound Pound."


Sheldon woman injured after striking deer in the roadway

On August 31st around 6:40 a.m. the Missouri State Highway Patrol in Vernon County along with Vernon County Sheriff Office responded to a motor vehicle accident on Route BB around 10 miles south of Nevada.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the accident occurred when the westbound 2019 Buick Envision driven by 60 year old Malinda K. Starbuck of Sheldon, Missouri struck a deer that was in the roadway.

Malinda K. Starbuck sustained minor injuries and she was transported by ambulance to Nevada Regional Medical Center for treatment.

View accident report below:
https://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/HP68/AccidentDetailsAction?ACC_RPT_NUM=220464531



Road work in Archie

Vance Brothers is in Archie today beginning the chip and seal process on W. Pine Street from Butcher Road to Missouri Street, Washington Street, E. Chestnut and E. Elm Street.

They may also get to W. Elm Street and Hi-View Ridge if time allows. Please keep vehicles off of these roadways during construction.

Tuesday, August 30, 2022

One arrested on Felony Vernon County warrant

A Missouri man faces involuntary manslaughter charges stemming from a 2021 vehicle crash that killed a Nevada woman.

According to probable cause statements from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Bobby W. West, Jr. was injured in a one-vehicle crash south of Hume in October of 2021 that resulted in the death of 23 year old Angela Pooler of Nevada.

West said on scene that Pooler had been driving at the time of the crash. Officials say they then received information in December about a witness who had seen Bobby West, Jr. driving prior to the crash. 

In June of this year, a written statement was obtained stating West was in the driver's seat when he went north towards Stotebury prior to the crash and the witness stated he thought it was a short time from when he saw West leave his house to when the crash occurred.

The witness also stated West had told him when they were driving up to the crash scene that day after the crash that he had been driving when the crash happened.

A check of West's driving record through the Missouri Department of Revenue indicates West has nine convictions for Driving While Revoked since June 18th, 2012.

West faces a first degree count of involuntary manslaughter and is being held in Vernon County Jail on $100,000 cash only bond.

An arraignment is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Thursday, September 1st in Vernon County Circuit Court.

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.

Obituary - Kevin Haddix

After a valiant battle with Covid-19 related pneumonia Kevin, 54, quietly passed away with his wife and children near at North Kansas City Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri.

Kevin was born in Charleston, South Carolina to Dottie (Pryor) Haddix and Dale Haddix on January 11, 1968. Kevin would become the middle of three brothers having older brother Bob and after the birth of his younger brother Tom. They would become Navy brats until their father retired!

When his father retired from the U.S. Navy his family settled in Schell City, MO in rural Vernon County. Kevin graduated from Schell City High School with the class of 1986. Kevin enlisted in the United States Navy and reported for basic training in August of 1986. His specialty would be Aviation Electronics. 

Kevin served for 22 years in duty stations from Key West, FL to Barber’s Point, HI. From Brunswick, ME to San Diego, CA and other places in between. Among some of his citations and decorations were Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal -2. Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal 2. Meritorious Unit Commendation-2. Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation; Good Conduct Medal-6 and National Defense Service Medal -2. 

He earned many other ribbons and medals too numerous to mention. While enlisted Kevin earned his B.S. in Management/Human Resources from Park University. After retirement he earned his Master of Business Administration from Baker University. Kevin would retire as an ATCS(AW) Senior Chief Petty Officer.

Kevin was united in marriage to Kimberly Jo (Proffitt) Harms on January 3, 1991. Kevin would adopt Kim’s daughter Bryn Noelle in 1994 making her his own. His son, Hunter Charles was born on October 13, 1994 in Key West, FL. His birth would complete their family.

Kevin began his second career in June of 2008 with BNSF Railway. At the time of his death, he was working on the MMSE (Manager Mechanical Service Excellence) Team. As part of the Best Way Team, he helped to facilitate improvements in locomotive repair facilities. Kevin, throughout his careers had mentors that helped him along the way. In turn, Kevin would become a mentor and a good boss. He was respected by his peers and employees. Kevin was a good people person who cared about his employees on and off of the clock.

Kevin was wicked smart, quietly funny and most of the time a man of few words. Kevin had many hobbies and interests. He liked working on projects around the house except plumbing. His last project was a privacy fence around the back yard so their Labrador Retriever would never find out he could clear the chain link fence while jumping. He liked to grill and smoke meat and was getting better at it. He told awful dad jokes and tried to be “punny.” Whenever he would pass a piano, he would stop and play. He played “The Entertainer,” the only song he knew. It would become a family joke. Kevin spent many volunteer hours for the Special Olympics in more than one location.

Kevin enjoyed spending time with family the best. He grew up in the country and was always glad to visit. Fourth of July celebrations were a family favorite. Pot luck dinner, fireworks and kids having fun. His parents and later on just his mom and brothers enjoyed spending time with him. Somehow the conversations would include the things they did in their youth. Their shenanigans made for some funny stories and great memories. His parent’s place was the perfect location for target shooting and fishing. Both of which he did with Bryn and Hunter.

Kevin was preceded in death by his father, Dale Haddix and his Haddix and Pryor Grandparents. Kevin is survived by his wife, Kimberly Jo Haddix, Kansas City, MO his daughter Bryn N. Haddix, Omaha, NE his son Hunter C. Haddix, Kansas City, MO his mother Dottie E. Haddix, Schell City, MO brothers Bob (Kimberly A.) Haddix, Schell City, MO and Tom (Monica) Haddix. Nephews and niece and great nephews.

A memorial service will be held on September 24, 2022; at the Schell City Christian Church, 243 W. 3rd St., Schell City, MO 64783. Visitation from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. with the service at 1:00 p.m. It will be followed with military honors at the church.

Honorary pallbearers: Bryn N. Haddix, Hunter C. Haddix, Kirk D. Haddix, Nathan L. Haddix, Morgan A. Dean and Ethan J. Haddix

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to: VFW Post 7356, 10125 MO-45, Parkville, MO 64152 or the American Legion Post 318, 11 Main Street, Parkville, MO 64152 in Kevin’s memory. Kevin was a member of both.

Fort Scott Kansas man drowns in Stockton Lake

On August 30th around 2:51 p.m. the Missouri State Highway Patrol in Cedar County along with Cedar County Deputies responded to a drowning at Orleans Trail Cove on Stockton Lake in Cedar County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says 60 year old John G. Gray of Fort Scott Kansas was pronounced dead at the scene of this incident. The cause of the drowning is unknown at this time. 

The subject was spoken to a 8:00 a.m. on August 29th. The Investigation continues into this. This is Troop D of the Missouri State Highway Patrol's 16th drowning fatality of the year 2022.

View report below:

Obituary - Mary Kathryn Rutherford Murray

Mary Kathryn Rutherford Murray passed away Saturday, August 27, 2022. She was 95 years old.

Kathryn was born May 8, 1927, to Hugh L. and Mary (Goodwin) Rutherford in Stotesbury, Missouri. She graduated from Stotesbury High School. She married Tom Murray on December 18, 1943. To this union they had three sons Thomas Jay, James, and Michael.

Kathryn was a housewife and enjoyed raising chickens and calves. She loved gardening and fishing. She worked at Western Insurance in Fort Scott, Kansas for six years. She was active in her sons’ lives helping with school activities and going to all their basketball games.

She was preceded in death by her parents Hugh Rutherford and Mary Rutherford Fletcher, her husband Tom Murray, two brothers Jay Rutherford and Wilbur Rutherford, one sister Barbara (Fletcher) Fitzgerald, two stepsisters Freda Henderson and Lois Kraus, and stepfather E.A. Fletcher.

She is survived by her sons Thomas Jay (Carol), Lamar, Missouri; James (Esther), Hume, Missouri, Michael, Liberal, Kansas. Eight Grandchildren Sherry St. John (Royce) Golden City, Missouri, Jody Weaver (Barry), Liberal, Missouri, Cindy Gammon (Brad) Lamar, Missouri; Jim Murray (Erin) St. Charles, Missouri; Brian (Ashley) Millersville, Maryland; Lisa Quiroz, (Raul) Wright, Wyoming; Chad Murray, Joplin, Missouri; and Tara Neuman (Jeremiah), Liberal, Kansas; eleven great-grandchildren; three sisters Betty Sheehy, Independence, Missouri; Beverly Fletcher, Raymore, Missouri and Hattie Shaw, Ft. Scott, Kansas; and many nieces and nephews.

Graveside funeral service service will be 11 am Saturday, September 3, 2022 at the Greenlawn Cemetery, Rich Hill, Missouri. Visitation will be held from 10 am to departure for cemetery at the Heuser Funeral Home, Rich Hill. Memorial Contributions are suggested to Hume Alliance Ministry. Online condolences can be left at www.heuserfunerals.com.

Huge clean up at the Butler Youth Center

Yesterday we had a huge clean up day at the Butler Youth Center and the place looks and smells much better!! 

Special shout out to Terri Bettles who made sure all of the utilities were turned on and in providing cleaning essentials.

I would like to name all of the volunteers but know I would leave someone out!! We had a crew in the craft room, in the hygiene closet as well as the tutoring room, and kitchen. 

We had donated a lot of our hygiene products, to the Carpenters Cup, so we appear to need deodorant, shampoo, body wash, etc. 

We also threw all of the food products, both frozen an non frozen away due that it had all been setting there for 2 and 1/2 years. The building continues to be in pretty poor shape, but it is all we have at the moment. 

We are continually thankful for the support we receive from the school for allowing us to use it. Anyway, once again I am asking for help.

Any donations of hygiene items would be greatly appreciated. We provide lots of families in the Butler area with lots of things they need. I continue to be humbled by the support we get from the Butler community, in helping support "our" kids!!

From the Butler Youth Center director Kelly Stark..

Obituary - Jerry Marcotte

Jerome Thomas “Jerry” Marcotte, age 55, of Warsaw, Missouri passed away suddenly on Thursday, August 25, 2022. He was born on November 30, 1966 in Chicago, Illinois the son of Jerome Joseph Marcotte and Kathryn Marie (Rogers) Marcotte. Jerry moved to Warsaw at the age of 16 and was a graduate of Warsaw High School in 1985.

He was employed for Ozark Disposal for more than twenty years and currently was employed as an over the road truck driver. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and enjoyed riding motorcycles, golfing, truck driving and spending time with his family and friends when he was home.

He is survived by two children, Derrick Marcotte, and wife Stormy, of Sedalia, Missouri and Ashley Cowherd, and husband Kyle, of Sedalia, his fiancé, Lisa Stone, of the home, six grandchildren; Zadin, James, Xavier, Winter, Cannon and Bryson, three brothers; Pete Marcotte, and wife Melissa, of Evans, Georgia, Tom Marcotte, and wife Jennifer, of Wellington, Florida and Chris Austin, of Banner Elk, Georgia, a sister, Anne Kelligan, of Augusta, Georgia, numerous nieces and nephews other relatives and many friends from all parts of the country.

A Celebration of Life will be held by the family at a later date. Arrangements for his cremation are under the direction of the Reser Funeral Home, Warsaw, Missouri.

Verbal threats made at Osceola School


On Tuesday, August 30, 2022, at 0745 hours, the St Clair County Sheriff’s Office was advised by Osceola School of a verbal threat.
 
Deputies were on-site at the time of notification and remained on site throughout the course of the day. 

At 0833 hours an eighteen year old suspect was in custody for the verbal threats. The suspect, who was not a student, was questioned and arrested on a 24 hour hold.

The case was submitted to St Clair County Prosecutor, Daniel Dysart, for consideration of charges.

Approximately 1430 hours the Sheriff’s Office received a warrant from the St Clair Associate Court for 2nd Degree Terroristic Threats with a bond set at $10,000 cash or surety.

Sheriff Hilty commends the work of all parties involved and the speed at which this situation was addressed. As a result of the school officials quick actions, the situation caused only minor disruption in daily activities.

Miami R-1 Elementary Grandparents Day

The Miami R-1 Elementary would like to invite grandparents to come to school for BREAKFAST with their grandchildren in honor of Grandparents Day. 

We will be celebrating on Friday, September 16 and we will be serving breakfast starting 7:30 a.m. Reservation needs to be returned by Friday, September 9, 2022. 

There will be no charge for breakfast. To download the letter/reservation form.

please visit www.miamir1.net

Obituary - Larry Edward Wilhelmson

Graveside services for Larry Wilhelmson of Butler, Missouri will be 11 a.m. Thursday, September 1, 2022 at Newton Burial Park in Nevada, Missouri under direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. 

Visitation 5 - 7 p.m. Wednesday, August 31 at the Schowengerdt Chapel in Butler. Contributions to Nevada Animal Shelter. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Larry Edward Wilhelmson, age 84 of Butler, Missouri died Tuesday, August 30, 2022 at his home. He was born December 5, 1937 to John Robert and Virginia Annis McGinley Wilhelmson in Nevada, Missouri.

Larry is survived by his wife, Nancy Wilhelmson of Butler, Missouri; one son, Matt Wilhelmson and wife Kim of Archie, Missouri; one daughter, Kim Berwald of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Full obituary to follow.

Dirty Bingo at the Butler Senior Center

The baked potato fixings for the Dirty Bingo for Tuesday September 13th is sour cream, cheese, chili, or broccoli & cheese. Come join in the fun Tuesday September 13th at 6pm for $5.00!

Help the Friends of the Butler Senior Center continue their mission to provide services for the seniors 60+ with services, socialization, & volunteer opportunities!


Arrest made in Rockville

On August 26, 2022 a Deputy responded to a residence in Rockville, MO in regards to a domestic in progress and property being set on fire.

When the Deputy arrived he observed that the front door was open and there was property on fire outside of the house.

The fire department was dispatched to put out the fire. Two females then arrived on scene and one of them stated that it was her property that was on fire.

The Deputy asked the females which one of them had been assaulted. They stated that neither one of them had. They just made those statements to get law enforcement there quicker.

The Deputy attempted to locate the suspect, Jayme Sluder (DOB 3/22/86). He was not located on the property. The Deputy took a statement from the victim and photographs of the damaged property.

An hour after the Deputy left the scene, Dispatch advised him that Sluder had returned to the property and was attempting to restart the fire. Sluder also stated that he had a firearm and he would shoot law enforcement if they tried to make contact with him.

Deputies returned to the residence but Sluder had already left. After conducting an area canvass they located him at another residence. Sluder was taken into custody without incident.

Mr. Sluder had multiple warrants out of Bates and Vernon Counties for theft, property damage, burglary, domestic assault, trespassing, peace disturbance and assault.

Charges are pending for property damage at the residence in Rockville, MO. Sluder is currently being held in the Bates County Jail.


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.

Clinton Man Charged with Murdering Wife

The Henry County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office announces that charges have been filed against Ryan W. Alexander, 27, of Clinton for the death of his wife.

Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, LaChrisha Gray, filed the case on behalf of the State of Missouri charging the defendant with murder in the first degree and armed criminal action.

According to the probable cause statement, Clinton Police Officers responded to the residence of Ashton and Ryan Alexander after Ryan Alexander placed a call to the Henry County 911 Center indicating he had shot his wife. Upon arrival, officers found Ashton Alexander deceased with multiple gunshot wounds.

The Henry County Associate Court issued a no bond warrant at the request of the prosecutor.

The defendant has been arraigned and a bond hearing has been set for September 6, 2022 at 11 am at which time the Henry County Associate Court will consider whether to set a bond in the matter.

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.

Obituary - Steven Shane Cowan

Steven Shane Cowan was born July 4 1973, to Steve and Linda Cowan of Appanoose County, Iowa. Steve was joined in marriage to Nikki April 18, 2019. They resided in Appleton City, Missouri. Together with their children they created their own family.

They shared a love of fishing, mushroom hunting , he loved his animals and riding motorcycles. Loved to listen to music and tinkered with cars as a handyman. Steve departed this life on August 21, 2022

He is survived by , Nikki his loving wife. Daughters Passion, and Brylynn. Sons Steven, Brently , and Brecken. Special parents Momma and Papa Lafee. Brother Johnnie Cowan. Sisters Sherry (Eddie) Conn, Mary(Bob) Wells, and Kat Shrake. Lots of nieces, nephews and friendships.

He is proceeded in death by his parents Steve and Linda, brother Jason. Grandparents Leonidas and Anna Cowan. Clyde and Mary Holbrooke. Paul and Pearl Sales. Bernie and Zelda Fenton and aunt and uncle Judith Strickler and Bill Cowan.

Celebration of life will follow on a later date to be announced. His final resting place will be in Iowa with his parents and brother at Sunset View Cemetery

Obituary - Vernie Beatrice "Bea" Hunt

Graveside services for Vernie Beatrice "Bea" Hunt of Butler, Missouri will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, August 31, 2022 at Mt. Washington Cemetery (614 S Brookside Ave.) in Kansas City, Missouri under direction of Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. No visitation. Contributions to American Diabetes Association. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Vernie Beatrice “Bea” Hunt, age 96 of Butler, Missouri passed away Saturday, August 27, 2022 at Medicalodge in Butler, Missouri surrounded by her loving family. She was born November 19, 1925 on a farm near Stockton, Missouri to Willie Albert and Erma Thula Spencer Hunt.

Bea is survived by one sister, Stella Nieder and husband Bill of Butler, Missouri; and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins. Bea was preceded in death by her parents, Willie and Erma Thula Hunt; four brothers, Hollie, Raymond, and two infant brothers Denzil and Vernon who passed away at birth; and two sisters, Hellen Vernon and Fern Claphan.

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