Bridge rehabilitation project beginning March 11th in Bates County

Northbound I-49 traffic shifted head-to-head in the southbound lanes between Mile Markers 135 & 137 in Bates County over the Missouri & Northern Arkansas (MNA) Railroad north of Butler while contractor crews work to replace the bridge deck/driving surface

Monday, March 11th and remaining in this pattern until work on the northbound bridge is completed. #MoDOTSW

Obituary - Ronnie Lee Felt

Ronnie Lee Felt, age 85, resident of Fort Scott, KS, died Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at the Via Christi Medical Center, Pittsburg, KS. He was born November 4, 1938, in Fort Scott, the oldest son of Kenneth Marcellus Felt and Sylvia Mae Beerbower Felt. He graduated from Fort Scott High School in 1956. Ronnie married Laura Lea Coonrod on April 5, 1959, at Cato, KS.

Ronnie started trucking right out of high school. He was also a farmer and a rancher after purchasing his parents’ farm in 1972. Ronnie and Laura would become the owners and operators of Felt & Sons Trucking Company out of Redfield, KS in 1982. He chased that white line for over three million miles with his sons and family by his side. Through his time trucking, Ronnie, also known as Bigfoot, made many friends and built relationships that would last his lifetime. He served as a Deacon at Mt. Orum Baptist Church.

Ronnie retired at the age of 72. His pride and joy was his family, especially the grandkids and great grandkids. He could often be found in his recliner with multiple great grandchildren piled on his lap. He led his family for 85 years with knowledge and wisdom. At the end of his life, he was surrounded by the family that loved and adored him.

Survivors include his wife Laura of the home, and children Rickie Felt and wife, Cindy of San Antonio, Troy Felt and partner, Tami Shirley of Redfield, and Rhonda Kellstadt and husband Robert of Mound City. Six grandchildren, Kathy Felt, Kenny Felt (Megan), Clayton Dierksen (McKenna), Tyler Felt (Skylar), Haley Arnold (Adam), and Cade Kellstadt (Avery) and his great grandchildren: Blair, Waylon, Easton, Knox, Smith, Carver, Creek, Olivia, and Macy. Ronnie is also survived by his siblings Shirley Felt Cary, CH Felt, and Gary Felt. He was preceded in death by a grandson Scott Felt, his parents Kenneth and Sylvia Felt, and a sister Marcella Felt Butler.

Pastor Tom Bevard will conduct funeral services at 10:30 AM, Wednesday, March 13th, at the Mt. Orum Baptist Church, Redfield, KS. Burial will follow in the Mt. Orum Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 Tuesday evening at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to either Shriner’s Hospital or St. Jude’s Hospital and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Main Street Menagerie closing in Butler

It is with mixed emotions that we announce the closing of Main Street Menagerie at its current location of 105 N Main St, Butler, MO. 

While this decision has not been an easy one to make, we believe it to be necessary. Unfortunately, due to the current financial climate, the daily operations have been difficult in our recessed economy. While departing is never a cheerful occasion, we must say goodbye to customers who have been supporting us and enjoying the Menagerie. 

We are extremely proud of all that we have accomplished in the past two years of operation alongside our vendors. We could not be more thankful to those who have believed in us and invested in our endeavors. With that being said, our final day of welcoming customers through our doors will be April 30. 

It has come to where we must say "so long" for now, but hopefully not forever. At the current time, we do not have options for relocating. However, your words have encouraged us many times over, and we are hopeful for what the future may hold!!!

Obituary - Alberta Louise Crawford

Alberta Louise Crawford, age 91, of Clinton, Missouri passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at Adair Village in Clinton, Missouri. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 Am on Monday, March 11, 2024 at the Vansant-Mills Chapel in Clinton with visitation from 10:00-11:00 AM prior to the service. Burial to follow in the Englewood Cemetery in Clinton, Missouri. The family suggest all memorial contributions be made to GVMH Hospice or The American Heart Association and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Alberta Louise Funk, daughter of Albert Parker Funk and Goldie Ann McLain was born in 1932 at her rural home in Windsor, MO. She was the last surviving sibling of her large family consisting of her mother, father, four sisters, and two brothers.

As a young girl Louise helped her family by working on the family dairy farm. She milked cows before going to school each morning along with completing a host of other chores common to farm life while growing up. She proudly graduated from Calhoun High School in Calhoun, MO as a member of the class of 1950. After graduation Louise worked at the International Shoe Factory in Windsor, MO.

On December 30, 1951, she married Raymond Earl Crawford. To the union were born three children: Raymond Earl Jr., Tommy Lynn, and Shirley Louise. As a young mother of three, her main goal in life was to be a good wife, mother, and later a grandmother. She surpassed this goal in all titles and eventually added the title Great and Great-Great Grandmother to the accomplishment. She was deeply loved and known by so many friends and family simply as “Granny.”

After years spent raising her own children, she went on to helping others raise theirs by working for the Clinton School District as a school bus driver for 20 years. Later in life she also worked for Citizens Union State Bank for 7 years as a courier transferring documents between the local and southern bank branches.

She was profoundly committed in her Faith and was an active member of the Golden Valley Christian Church until her health began preventing her from attending regularly scheduled services. In addition to always being an active member in her Church, she was also active in the VFW’s Lady Auxiliary where she served as Lady Auxiliary President and Chairperson for the Bingo Association. She took great pride in all the VFW activities and always worked heavily on the annual Buddy Poppy Fundraiser. She had a joy for conversation and loved a good visit from friends and family alike. She loved to share stories new as well as old and had a remarkable memory where she could provide full name and birthday dates for every family member past and present.

Throughout her life and marriage to Raymond, Louise was a Charter Member and past President of the Golden Valley Bluegrass Club. She could always be found setting up and operating the funnel cake shack at the local Bluegrass Festival. She and Raymond loved to travel to and camp at bluegrass festivals around the state. Her love of music continues to be passed on through her children and grandchildren generation after generation.

Louise had an infectious laugh and one of the best witches cackles you have ever heard when dressed in her favorite Halloween costume. While she had a passion for baking a variety of sweets, her angel food cake, homemade noodles, and homemade Christmas candy will always be time honored and cherished family recipes and traditions of every holiday season.

Louise was preceded in death by both of her parents, all six of her siblings, her husband, both of her sons, one grandson Paul, and one great granddaughter Meghan.

Louise is survived by her daughter Shirley and favorite son in law Dennis of Clinton, Grandson Roger (Cathy) Crawford and their children Caitlyn, Rhiannon, Gabriel, Aeowyn of Colorado Springs, Grandson Jeremy (Chrissy) Wilson and their children Hayden (Bailee) and Jase, Riley (Tara) of Clinton, Grandson Denis (Christina) Crawford of Garden City and their children Tommy (Hailey) Connor and Oaklynn of Clinton, Shelby Crawford Garden City, Grandson Johnny (Melissa) Crawford and their sons Quincy and Alex of Clinton, Great grandson Logan (Chelsea) Wilson of Clinton, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Pall Bearers: Gabriel Crawford, Quincy Crawford, Alex Crawford, Tommy Crawford, Logan Wilson, Hayden Wilson, and Riley Wilson

Honorary Pall Bearers: Roger Crawford, Johnny Crawford, Denis Crawford, and Jeremy Wilson

The family would like to thank Golden Valley Hospice and all the administration and staff at Adair Village in Clinton, MO for their exceptional care and compassion that they provided to Louise and her family.

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

Upcoming new closure for improvement project at MO-7 South over I-49, March 18-21 in Cass County

 NB/SB I-49 will be closed at MO-7 South, March 18-21.

CASS COUNTY – Crews working on the bridge replacement and intersection improvement project on MO-7 South will make the following closures:  

NEW CLOSURE: Monday, March 18 through Thursday, March 21

Northbound and Southbound I-49 will be closed at MO-7 for bridge demolition. This will be a 72-hour closure.

DETOUR INFORMATION (March 18-21):

NB/SB I-49: Traffic traveling on NB and SB I-49 will use the on and off ramps to continue on NB/SB I-49.

NB I-49 to 275th Street: Traffic exiting from NB I-49 to 275th Street traffic will be detoured over the on and off ramps on NB I-49 to the Commercial Street interchange.

SB I-49 to MO-7 South: Traffic exiting from SB I-49 to MO-7 South traffic will be detoured over the on and off ramps on SB I-49 to the 307th Street interchange.

275th Street: Traffic on 275th Street will be detoured on the Outer Road to 307th Street interchange

ONGOING: In addition, the following closures will now be in place through March 31 (extended from Jan. 31 due to weather):

The ramp from MO-7 to southbound I-49 will be closed.

*Detour information: Traffic on NB MO-7 should follow the signed detour and take NB I-49 to Commercial Street, exit and cross the bridge and take the ramp to SB I-49. Traffic on 275th Street/Outer Road should follow the signed detour and take the outer road south to 307th Street.

 The ramp from NB I-49 to MO-7 will be closed.

*Detour information: Traffic on NB I-49 should follow the signed detour and take NB I-49 to Commercial Street, exit and cross the bridge and take SB I-49 back to MO-7.

 The WB lane of 275th Street (NB MO-7) will be closed across the bridge.

This work is part of a larger project to complete two bridge replacements and make intersection improvements to MO-7 South (275th street) over I-49.

Motorists are reminded to slow down and pay attention while driving in work zones. Not all work zones look alike. Work zones can be moving operations, such as striping, patching or mowing. They can also be short term, temporary lane closures to make quick repairs or remove debris from the roadway

For more information about MoDOT news, projects or events, please visit our website at www.modot.org/kansascity. For instant updates, follow MoDOT_KC on X, or share posts and comments on our Facebook at www.facebook.com/MoDOT.KansasCity/. MoDOT Kansas City maintains more than 7,000 miles of state roadway in nine counties. Sign up online for workzone updates or call 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636).

Burglary reported at Casey’s General Store in Montrose

On March 8, 2024 around 3:00 a.m. Sgt. Logan responded to an alarm at Casey’s General Store in Montrose. 

It was discovered that the front glass door had been broken out and several items including cigarettes and alcoholic beverages had been taken along with other goods. 

Security footage shows a white single cab two door truck with a long bed as the suspect vehicle. Two white male subjects with hoodies and mask broke the front glass entered the store and took several items.

If you have information about this theft, please contact the Sheriff’s Office at 660.885.5587

Jackson scores 1000th career point for Wildcats

We would like to congratulate Harrisonville High School Senior Dom Jackson for scoring his 1,000th career point in the first round of the district basketball tournament last week! Way to go Dom!

More rain for today

Rain chances continue through today. The greatest chances this morning will be across portions of northwestern Missouri and across west central Missouri and east central Kansas and locations to the South.

Anywhere from a few tenths to over an inch of rain has fallen since Thursday, with additional rainfall amounts upwards of a quarter to a half inch possible through today.

Obituary - Richard Eldon Baldwin

Richard Eldon Baldwin, age 60, of Butler, Missouri formerly of Pleasanton, Kansas passed away Monday, March 4, 2024. He was born in Fort Scott, Kansas on July 21, 1963 the son of Franklin E. and Jean F. Wood Baldwin. He graduated from Pleasanton High School in the Class of 1981.

He worked as a machine operator for Cline Tool. Rick enjoyed watching sports, hunting, fishing, and gardening. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Dale Baldwin, Bill Baldwin, and Kenny Baldwin. He is survived by a son, Cody Baldwin, a daughter, Kendra Baldwin-Hull, two brothers, Franklin Baldwin Jr., and Lloyd Baldwin, and ten grandchildren.

Memorial service will be held 2 pm Saturday, March 9, 2024 at the Schneider Funeral Home and Crematory, Pleasanton Chapel. Visitation will be held from 1 pm to service time at the Pleasanton Chapel. Memorial contributions are suggested to defray funeral costs, c/o Schneider Funeral Home, P.O. Box 525, Pleasanton, Kansas 66075. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.

Search warrant served in Clinton

On 03/07/2024, Clinton Police officers and investigators served a search warrant at a residence in the 300 Block of North Water Street after developing information and evidence that methamphetamine was being sold there.

 
The search resulted in the seizure of a quantity of methamphetamine, paraphernalia commonly associated with the sale of illicit drugs and a firearm.

 
Dustin Newell (AKA Cheeseburger), age 35 of Clinton was arrested on investigation of Delivery of a Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm as well as for an outstanding arrest warrant for absconding from parole on the original charges of Burglary in the 2nd Degree, multiple counts of drug possession, Resisting Arrest and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

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.

Bates county financial statement available now

 Copies of the 2023 Bates County financial statement are available at the county administration building as well as the Mid America Live news office at 5 W. Dakota street. Pick up a copy weekdays 8 to 4 pm.

Ellett Memorial Hospital March employee of the month

We would like to congratulate Tiffany Mitchell for being chosen as the Ellett Memorial Hospital (Appleton City) March Employee of the Month!! Tiffany is a wonderful RN and is kind to her patients as well as her co-workers. 

She is willing to lend a hand when it is needed. She is always very pleasant and always has a smile on her face. Tiffany is very knowledgeable and willing to share her expertise with fellow employees. 

She has been with EMH since August 2011 through November 2018 with a break and full time beginning again in January 2020. Tiffany is a valuable employee of EMH and a wonderful person to work with and we count our blessings to have her. Once again, Congrats Tiffany!

BCMH Celebrates National Hospitalist Day

Happy National Hospitalist Day to the doctors who provide expert, compassionate care to our patients who are admitted for a hospital stay. Dr. Benjamin Crary is a BCMH staff hospitalist physician. Recently, Dr. Crary took a leadership role as Medical Director for our Emergency Room and Ambulance/EMS departments. 

Dr. Michael Yuhas with ConnectCare Hospitalists also provides care to our inpatients. We are thankful to have such caring physicians providing excellent care to our community.

Learn more about what a Hospitalist Physician does on our website:
https://www.bcmhospital.com/find-a-provider/hospitalist/

She will be missed around BCMH

Pat Friederich will retire from volunteering with Bates County Memorial Hospital’s Auxiliary on April 1, 2024, almost 30 years to the day started on April 4, 1994. 

The 86-year-old is looking forward to having the freedom to travel, enjoy her hobbies more often, and spend more time with her family.

“I know that I’m going to miss everybody because I’ve been here so long,” Pat said. “But I want to be able to go and visit my children and go on trips. I need to do those things while I still can.” Pat is the mother of five, with seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Pat joined the Auxiliary volunteers when she was in a transition in her life. Her children were finished with school, and she was open to new opportunities, so when her friend Alvina Harrison-Wells invited her to volunteer, Pat said yes. At that time one of the main tasks for volunteers was to greet visitors, and the work was meaningful to her.

Pat said, “I enjoy people – meeting people and serving people. And I love the people that work at the hospital. They are all wonderful people.”

Pat was involved in leadership for the Auxiliary over the years, serving three terms as president. She was also voted Volunteer of the Year in the early 2000s. In addition, Pat was closely involved in efforts that led to the group being recognized by the Missouri Association of Hospital Auxiliaries as Auxiliary of the Year in 1999, 2005 and 2011. In recent years she has devoted her hospital volunteer hours to working in the Gift Shop.

Volunteering also served to fill her time when she really needed it. Pat said the year she lost her husband and son in 2016, she really appreciated having a place to go and tasks to do. Before volunteering at the hospital, Pat worked for about 10 years in the medical clinic of Dr. Haynie and Dr. Strobach.

She was taught to give shots, draw labs, process X-Rays and more in her role at the clinic. Pat said she realized too late that she should have gone to school to be a nurse, or a teacher.

“When I was growing up, your parents didn’t push you to go on to school. It was to get married and have a family. Or you could be a teacher, a nurse or a secretary. But I didn’t want to do those things at the time; I would have liked to go into drama and music, because that’s what I loved. I still do.”

Pat belonged to a local theater group for 16 years known as the Lyle Norman Players (who later changed their name to The Entertainers). She also helped children learn to read as a volunteer assistant to the first-grade teacher at Butler Elementary for 14 years.

During her time volunteering for the hospital, Pat has donated about 8,244 hours. We at BCMH feel honored that people like Pat would dedicate her time for the betterment of her community, and we thank her for her service.

Learn more about our Auxiliary Volunteer program on our website:
https://www.bcmhospital.com/auxiliary-volunteers/ To inquire in person about volunteering, please visit our information desk at the hospital.

Obituary - Lolita Dawn Mumbower

Lolita Dawn Mumbower, age 59, a resident of Devon, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, Marcy 6, 2024, at her home. She was born March 16, 1964, in Ft. Scott, the daughter of Wayne Robinson and Rosalee Burch Robinson. Lolita married Delwin Mumbower on January 24, 1986, at Ft. Scott, Kansas. In earlier years, Lolita had worked as a waitress, but the majority of her life was spent making a home for her family. 

Lolita will be remembered for her friendly personality. She loved spending time in the coffee shop making new friends. She enjoyed doing many things; however, fishing was not one of them. She will be dearly missed by her family and those who loved her.

Survivors include her husband, Delwin, of the home; three children, Cody Mumbower (Mary) of Fulton, Kansas, Kara Mumbower of Devon, Kansas and Krista Wyatt (Shawn) of Ft. Scott and sixteen grandchildren, Madalynn, Mason, Miranda, Meredith, Molly, Marshall, Montgomery, Micah, Martin, Emilee, Elijah, Bradyn, Blayce, Bricyn, Blaetyn, and Paisley with another grandchild expected to arrive in August. Also surviving are two bonus grandchildren, Marla and Glynda. Lolita was preceded in death by her parents and an infant granddaughter, Kamrynn.

Pastor Randy Smith will conduct funeral services at 10:30 A.M. Tuesday, March 12th at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the Centerville Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 P.M. Monday at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and 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 the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Drive-In for the cause

 

Obituary - Evangeline “Eve” Judie Beeman

Evangeline “Eve” Judie Beeman, 64, Nevada, MO passed away on Tuesday, March 5, 2023 at her home in Nevada.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at the Church of the Nazarene with Pastor Megan Allen officiating.

Memorials are suggested in her name to the Church of the Nazarene c/o Ferry Funeral Home.     

Lamar Police seeking public assistance on hit and run

Last night, 03/06/24 at 7:48pm Lamar Police Officers responded to the area of W 10th near Walnut St in reference to a vehicle versus pedestrian, leaving the scene accident.

The initial reports indicate that an adult female was walking westbound on the north side of 10th street when she was struck by a westbound vehicle. The vehicle did not stop.

The pedestrian was transported to a Joplin hospital for non-life threating injuries. The Lamar Police Department is asking anyone that may have any information in regard to this incident please contact the department at 417-682-3546.

Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare Announces March Employee of the Month

Clinton, MO. – (Mar. 7, 2024) – Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare (GVMH) is pleased to announce that Julie Bunch is the March Employee of the Month.

Bunch has been an employee of GVMH since 2019 and works as the Lead Pharmacy Tech in the Pharmacy department. In her role, she assists with staff training, serves as the leader for the pharmacy technicians and performs a variety of technical and clerical duties for the department across the organization.

In her nomination, it stated Bunch always has a positive attitude, exemplary work ethic and constantly looks for ways to make improvements. She is always willing to take on new responsibilities, is supportive of her team members and is committed to GVMH and providing the Golden Standard of Care.

As the Employee of the Month, Bunch received a GVMH gift and her name will be engraved on a plaque to be permanently displayed on the main campus. She is also one of 12 finalists for the 2023-2024 Employee of the Year award.

Rain and thunderstorms return today

Rain and thunderstorms are expected to move in later this morning and continue into Friday. Rainfall amounts up to 2 inches will be possible across parts of the area.

BCMH Employee Appreciation Breakfast served by our volunteers

Nothing says "spring is almost here" like the annual BCMH Employee Appreciation Breakfast served by our volunteers. 

It means so much that they help our patients and assist our employees, but when our volunteers feed us they have our heart, body and soul.

Thank you to Charlotte Guss, Phyllis McBrayer, Barb Weaver, Pat Friederich, Carol Lewis and Lora Padley.

Obituary - Glenn R. Werner Jr.

It was the wishes of Glenn R. Werner Jr. to be cremated with no public services at this time. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Glenn R. Werner Jr., age 67 of Belton, Missouri died Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at his home. He was born October 30, 1956 to Glenn R. Sr. and Barbara Ann Medley Werner.

Glenn is survived by six children, Glenn R. Werner III of Belton, Missouri, Ryan Werner of Garden City, Missouri, Brandon Werner of Springfield, Missouri, Jennifer Stockdale and husband Paul of Adrian, Missouri, Connie Cooper of Garden City, Missouri and Larry David Hawkins Jr. of Doniphan, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter, Raelynn Werner; and a brother, John Werner.

Obituary - Allen "Rufus" Hilbus

Celebration of life service for Allen "Rufus" Hilbus will be 2 p.m. March 16, 2024 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. No Visitation. Contributions to Kansas City Hospice House, Bates County Elks Lodge or Butler Masonic Lodge. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Allen Wayne “Rufus” Hilbus, age 63 of Butler, Missouri died Sunday, March 3, 2024 at the Kansas City Hospice House, Kansas City, Missouri. He was born September 24, 1960 to Norman Kenneth and Barbara Ann Kendrick Hilbus in Butler.

Rufus is survived by his wife, Dana Hilbus of the home; a son, Rion Hilbus and fiancé Jennifer Lesmeister of Butler, Missouri; a daughter, Amber Kohler and husband Matt of Amsterdam, Missouri; three grandchildren, Laney Sue Lynn, Neil Allen and Noah Matthew Kohler with one on the way tbd; two brothers, Norman Dale Hilbus of Adrian, Missouri and Greg Hilbus and wife Sis of Butler, Missouri; a sister, Patty Brown of Butler, Missouri; and a brother-in-law, Greg Linard of Kansas City, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his parents.

If you see something then say something

CONSERVATION IN ACTION:

MDC staff are well-trained to detect and suppress wildfires. While wildfires can ignite naturally or by accident, intentional arsonists can be the culprit. Prescribed fire is an effective management tool in a controlled setting, but initiating a wildfire is destructive, dangerous, and illegal. 

If you see or learn of an act of arson, please call the OGT/Arson Hotline at 1-800-392-1111 or contact your local Conservation Agent. 

Reports can be anonymous and information leading to an arrest and conviction can result in a reward up to $1,000.

We will never forget!

After the tragic death of Officer Gary Michael on August 6, 2017, Officer Christopher Ryan Morton, who had left the Clinton Police Department to pursue other endeavors, insisted that he be allowed to come back. 

He needed to be with his extended family- his brothers and sisters of the Clinton Police Department. He couldn't bear the thought of being away from us in our time of need. Of course, we welcomed him back with open arms.

The evening of March 6, 2018, Ryan was responding to a call with those brothers. The mission seemed a straightforward one and one that Ryan was built for- someone inside a house may have been hurt, may have been a victim of violence, unable to make their own way out for one reason or another, and needed to be found and rescued. It was a mission that Ryan would never refuse.

Unbeknownst to Ryan and his squad members, a very well laid and deliberate ambush had been set for them. In the aftermath, Ryan was killed and two other officers suffered serious gunshot injuries.
Our hearts were torn from our chests. 

The loss seemed insurmountable. But it was Ryan's spirit and the unwavering love and support of this community that rescued us, pulling us from the depth that was our grief.

In the days following the tragedy, we learned that we were far from alone. An entire community helped us mourn and reminded us that Ryan would never allow us to quit.

Ryan's spirit and memory drives us to be better every day. He is with us on every call for service and on every traffic stop. He is with us every time we train, urging us to put in the extra effort. 

His lightheartedness and his compassion inspire every one of us. It's a piece of him we carry with us on every mission. His courage continues to push us through doors that danger likely lurks behind because someone needing our help might be on the other side.

We refuse to let him down.

Obituary - Derek Dice

Derek Erwin Lee Dice, 28, Sheldon, MO, passed away on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at his home in Sheldon. Derek was born in Lamar, MO to Ronald Lee and Catherine M. (Cline) Dice.

Dereck lived in Lamar and later in Bronaugh where he graduated from high school in 2014. He loved being a father to his daughter, Blair, and enjoyed hunting and fishing, video gaming, taking care of the goats, and being with his family. Derek was a member of the Sheldon Baptist Church.

Survivors include his mother, Cathy and stepdad, Rocky Pickering; his daughter, Blair; siblings, Donald Pickering, Sky Soard, Diamonnd Pickering, and Roberta Pickering; his grandmother, Sharon Cline; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Dice.

A Celebration of Life will be held be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at the Sheldon Baptist Church in Sheldon, MO with Pastor Jerod Lamb officiating.

Adrian to test storm sirens this evening

 

Weather permitting, the city of Adrian will be conducting a test of the storm sirens this evening at 6 pm. 

Amended complaint against Butler School filed in Federal Court

New information obtained from Justia.com indicates that an amended complaint has been filed in the US District Court of Western Missouri by Plaintiff Kiley Foster via attorneys Jonathan M. Soper, Daniel A. Thomas and Joleene Victoria Simmons. 

The 39 page complaint (case number 4:23-cv-00947-BP filed March 5, 2024) indicates the Plaintiff alleges that all parties listed below were "indifferent and/or consciously disregarded" her safety as "Defendant Reece forced the plaintiff to have a sexual relationship with him while she was a minor, starting in 2018 and continuing until the Summer of 2021". It goes on to say that "This happened multiple times, including but not limited to, on Butler R-V High School property, on FFA trips, at Defendant Reece's residences, and at school sponsored events". 

The document closes with "Plaintiff prays for judgement against all Defendants, and for punitive damages in such an amount as will serve to punish and deter the defendant, and other similarly situated, from engaging in like conduct" and a trial by jury has been requested.

Defendants (positions listed during time of allegations) who will be served in the case are as follows:

1. Darin Carter - Superintendent Butler School District

2. Brad Stevens - Butler R-V School Board

3. Rob Clover - Butler R-V School Board

4. Jarret Wheatley - Butler R-V School Board

5. Stacy McCrary - Butler R-V School Board

6. Anissa Harris - Butler R-V School Board

7. Marty Whitworth - Butler R-V School Board

8. Dave Randalls - Butler R-V School Board

9. Doug Lawrence - Butler R-V School Board

10. Marci Beckley - High School Principal

11. Greg Webb - High School Principal

12. Charles Reece - Agriculture teacher and FFA Advisor

13. Stacey Lawson - District Title IX Coordinator

14. Future Farmers of America (FFA)

Two previous cases brought by Foster against Reece individually are now disposed and as follows:

On August 18, 2023 in Cass county Mo, Defendant Charles Reece pled guilty to four (4) counts of Statutory Rape in the Second Degree and two (2) counts Sexual Contact with at Student to which he served a 120 callback with five (5) years supervised probation. On January 4th, 2024 in Henry county Mo, Defendant Charles Reece pled guilty to one (1) count of Sexual Contact with a student 16 years of age, and two (2) counts of sexual contact with a student.

During sentencing in 2023 Reece's attorney Scott Friedrich contended "the relationship was consensual and continued well after the Plaintiff graduated from high school" and did not warrant a full sentence under any circumstances.

Mid America Live will continue to provide updates regarding this case as they become available.

Important notice from Bates County Memorial Hospital

Recent reports about a company called Change Healthcare in the national media involving a cybersecurity event does not directly impact Bates County Memorial Hospital but does involve claim submissions to all Healthcare and Pharmacies nationwide, which affects us indirectly by holding up our claim submissions. It interrupts the information flow.

All BCMH systems are secure and functional. We were not breached. It does slow down claims and slows sending some prescriptions by electronic means to pharmacies.

We apologize for any delays or inconvenience caused by the slowdown. Change Healthcare (owned by UnitedHealth Group) is working around the clock on this issue.

Amsterdam man arrested for setting grass fires

On 3/2/2024 deputies received a call about a brush fire in the Amsterdam area. Deputies were advised by a property owner of a brush fire that had been set on his property. The property owner advised that the fire was not set by him. The fire was eventually put out. 

Several hours later, deputies were advised that the fire had started back up and the subject that was believed to have started the fire was seen leaving the property. 

A witness came forward and identified a male subject starting a fire along the ditch on the roadway. Deputies were advised that the subject that was setting the fires was located at a gas station in the Amsterdam area. Deputies made contact with male subject, identified as Joshua R Gregory of Amsterdam Missouri.

After the fire was put out deputies noted that there was damage to private property. A vinyl fence located along the roadway damaged caused by the fire.

Deputies arrested and charged Joshua R Gregory with knowingly burning with property damage. Gregory is being held in the Bates County Jail on a $10,000 cash only bond.

This situation could have been much worst than it was due to the wind. Thanks to the fast action of the fire department the situation was handled quickly.

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 - Pamela Jean Groblebe

Pamela Jean Groblebe 66, of Harrisonville, MO passed away March 3rd, 2024 surrounded with love by her family after a very short battle with colon/liver cancer.

Pam was born October 1st, 1957 in Lexington, MO. Pam attended Ruskin High School and was active in drama club, school plays, graduating in 1975 . In 1976 she attended and graduated from Jones Store School of Cosmetology. Pam was a member of International Order of Rainbow for Girls and International Order of Eastern Star. Pam retired from RZ Motors in 2001.

Pam enjoyed watching the KC Chiefs, NASCAR, traveling, cooking, eating good food and spending time cheering on her grandkids during sports games and rodeos.

Pam was proceeded in death by her parents; Conrad & Marilyn Pitz, brother-in-law Jim Lewis and sister-in-law Suzanne Pitz.

Pam is survived by daughter; Connie Kudron (Corby), son; Bryan Groblebe (Abby), brothers; Conrad Pitz and Mickey Munoz, sisters; Cindy Pritchett, Lisa Lewis, Robin Ressel (Dany),
Robin Drake (Jeff), Gretchen Higdon (Kevin).

The grandkids who kept her going; Bailey Bush (McKahan), Tyler Kudron (Jillian), Hannah Kudron, Sam Kudron, Kolten Groblebe, Gage Wozencraft, London Brewer, Piper Groblebe; Great Grand-kids; Tinley Bush and a Bush baby on the way.

Pam is loved deeply by numerous friends, nieces, nephews.
Pam was honored to be an adopted Nan to Rylee Prindle, Keigan Rowe and Kyah Rowe. Memorial Donations can be made to St. Judes Childhood Cancer Fund.

Cremation with a Celebration of Life Visitation will be held 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, March 8, 2024 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri.

Body found in Barton County Landfill

Authorities in southwest Missouri have confirmed the discovery of a Springfield man’s body in a landfill.

The Barton County Sheriff’s Office, alongside the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP), announced that 47-year-old Manuel Gomez’s body was found at the Republic Services Prairie View Regional Waste Landfill in Lamar on Friday afternoon.

Officials believe Gomez’s body was transported to the landfill aboard one of the trash collection vehicles, with the initial report being made around noon. 

The MSHP has since taken the lead in the investigation, stating that the cause of death remains undetermined at this time.

Obituary - Richard "Rick" Lee Maples

Richard “Rick” Lee Maples, age 68, of Belton, Missouri passed away on March 1, 2024, at Belton Regional Medical Center.

A celebration of his life will be held 2-4 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at the First Student Bus Lot 19620 Harrelson Dr., Belton, Missouri 64012.

Rick was born in Inglewood, California on November 28, 1955, the son of William J. Maples and Dorothy D. Moore. Shortly after high school Rick served his country in the United States Air Force. He met the love of his life Jackie and later were married on December 1, 1995. Together they were blessed with two sons, Micheal and Matthew. In life he worked for the Jackson County sheriff’s dept as a dispatcher, later he drove a truck for his uncle's business, after that he went into security, where Rick and Jackie met, after they got married Rick became truck driver. From there Rick began driving a school bus for the Ray-Pec school district.

Arrangements: Cullen Funeral Home, Inc., Raymore, Missouri 64083

Obituary - Raymond Lee Green

Raymond Lee Green, age 94 years, formerly of Deepwater, Missouri passed away at his home in Macks Creek, Missouri on March 3, 2024. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at the Vansant-Mills Chapel in Clinton, Missouri. 

The family will receive friends from 1:00-2:00 PM prior to the service. Burial with military honors to follow at Englewood Cemetery in Clinton. Memorial contributions can be made to Lake Regional Hospice and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Raymond Lee Green was born on July 24, 1929, in Deepwater, Missouri to Le Oliver and Hazel (Lumus) Green. In 1951 he married Ruth Bell Sizemore and together they were blessed with three children, Brenda, Diana, and Doug. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Deepwater, Missouri since March 18, 1990. He attended Freewill Baptist in Tunas, Missouri. He worked for K.W. Dart where he retired after 30 years as a forklift operator.

Raymond loved to camp and fish in his younger days. He enjoyed eating lunch at Macks Creek Senior Center and loved breaking beans on his front porch in the summer.

He is preceded in death by his wife Ruth Bell Green, his parents, his daughter Brenda Hughes, and siblings Richard and Betty.

Survivors include his two children Diana Willis and husband Rusty of Macks Creek, MO, Doug Green and wife Melinda of Bentonville, AR., his son-in-law Ed Hughes, several grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren, along with several other family and friends.

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

Obituary - Janice Dale Huston

Jancie Dale Huston, 68, Nevada, MO passed away on Friday, March 1, 2024. Janice was born November 22, 1955 in Leavenworth, KS to Ray W. and Janine H. (Aguttes) Blanz. She was united in marriage to Mark Huston on October 15, 1982 in Olathe, KS and he survives of the home.

Janice grew up in Bonner Springs and graduated from Bonner Springs High School in 1973. She was a factory worker most of her life and for a number of years she worked in the Kansas City area as a clothing maker, making hats and jeans, then later for a company that manufactured medical supplies. Janice moved to Vernon County near Sandstone in 1998. She worked at 3M in Nevada for several years.

In addition to her husband Mark, Janice is survived by two daughters: Sandy Armstrong (Chris), Nevada, MO, and Cindy Smith (Travis), Nevada, MO; four grandchildren, Tyler Armstrong, Nevada, Logan Armstrong, Nevada, Zach Smith, Nevada, MO, Kaylee Smith, Nevada, MO; two brothers, Rory Blanz, Joplin, MO, and Jack Blanz, Bonner Springs, KS; one nephew and one niece also survive. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her father-in-law, Norman Huston.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 8, 2024 at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.

The family will receive friends from 1-2:00 prior to the service at the funeral home.

Clinton man sentenced to 10 years in MDOC

Jason Aery, 45, of Clinton, Missouri was sentenced to ten years in prison for distributing methamphetamine near an elementary school.

The Clinton Police Department executed a search warrant on July 18, 2023 of Aery’s residence near the elementary school in Clinton, wherein they found a significant amount of methamphetamine. Detectives also located two firearms. Aery later stated to investigators that methamphetamine “sells itself.”

Henry County Prosecutor LaChrisha Gray prosecuted the case and charged Aery with distribution of a controlled substance in a protected area, unlawful possession of a firearm, and possessing a stolen firearm.

On February 20, 2024, a sentencing hearing was held by Henry County Circuit Judge M. Brandon Baker following Aery’s plea of guilt to the offenses. At the sentencing hearing, Prosecutor Gray requested the Court sentence Aery to fifteen years in the Missouri Department of Corrections. The defendant requested the Court consider probation.

Mr. Aery was already on probation and supervision with Missouri Probation and Parole when this offense occurred. His probation was revoked in those other matters, which were both possession of controlled substance cases, as a result of this case.

Judge Baker sentenced Aery to ten years in the Missouri Department of Corrections on the distribution count and seven years on the two remaining charges involving the firearms.

Obituary - Eva May Schallert

Mass of Christian Burial for Eva May Schallert of Adrian, Missouri will be 10 a.m. Thursday, March 7, 2024 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Butler, Missouri. 

Visitation will be 5 - 6:30 p.m. followed by a Rosary at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. 

Burial in Crescent Hill Cemetery, Adrian, Missouri. Contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Eva May Schallert, age 97 of Adrian, Missouri died Friday, March 1, 2024 at Foxwood Springs in Raymore, Missouri. She was born October 29, 1926 to Daniel Clarence and Dorris A. Field Lamar in Weston, Missouri.

Eva May, one of three children, grew up in Weston, Missouri where she attended Swamp Elementary School and was a 1944 graduate of Weston High School. In 1950 she received her Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Missouri in Columbia. On June 8, 1952 Eva May married Francis John Schallert in Weston, Missouri and to this union, four children were born. She was a Home Economics teacher from 1950 until 1960 in Memphis, Butler and Hume, Missouri. She later taught at Drexel, Missouri from 1985 to 1988 and was a substitute for several years in Adrian, Missouri. Eva May was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Butler, Missouri and the McNeil Extension Club and worked with local and community 4-H programs for over 30 years. Eva May was known as a happy and optimistic lady. 

Her hobbies included reading historic and mystery novels, quilting and cross-stitching. She enjoyed traveling, shopping and dancing. Eva May loved spending time with her grandchildren. She wanted to be remembered as a “pie baking grandma” and one who gave unconditional love.

Eva May is survived by three children, John Schallert and wife Gloria of Freeman, Missouri, Ann Fly and husband Bud of Drexel, Missouri and Carolyn N. Sorrell of Adrian, Missouri; five grandchildren, Christa Stokes (Jason), Jeremy Fly (Jennifer), Craig Schallert, Todd Schallert and Tim Schallert (Jerrilee); and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Francis Schallert on May 30, 2019; a daughter, Mary Jane Schallert; a brother, Robert Lamar; and a sister, Martha Stanley.

I-49 Traffic Shifted in Bates County for Bridge Rehabilitation Beginning March 11th

 I-49 Traffic Shifted in Bates Co. for Bridge Rehabilitation Beginning March 11th...

What: Northbound I-49 traffic shifted head-to-head in the southbound lanes between Mile Markers 135 & 137 in Bates County over the Missouri & Northern Arkansas (MNA) Railroad north of Butler while contractor crews work to replace the bridge deck/driving surface

 

When: Monday, March 11 and remaining in this pattern until work on the northbound bridge is completed

 

Traffic Impacts:

• I-49 traffic reduced to one lane in each direction with northbound traffic shifted head-to-head in the southbound lanes over MNA Railroad between Mile Markers 135 & 137 north of Butler in Bates County
• Expect delays during high traffic volume times
• Only one lane open in each direction
• Speed limit reduced to 60 mph through the work zone
• Watch for equipment and crews entering and exiting the work zone
• No signed detours
• Signs and message boards will alert drivers approaching the work zone
• Drivers should consider alternate routes during the project
• Check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map for road closings/traffic impacts

 

Weather and/or construction delays could alter the work schedule.

 

Details: This contract also included the southbound I-49/MNA Railroad bridge, which was completed in October 2023.

 

Project information:

• Prime contractor: Capital Paving & Construction, Columbia

• Total project cost: $4 million
• Contract completion date: July 30, 2024