Butler city council seat election filings for the April 2026 election

Doncella Liggins- Ward 2, Jim Henry- Mayor, Carmin Behringer- Ward 4 and Denny Rich- Ward 1 have filed to re-run uncontested on the Butler city council in the upcoming April 7, 2026 election.

Jon Dudley will be campaigning for the Ward 3 seat to be vacated by Fawn Alkire.

Remember it's your right and duty to vote!

The Butler City Council meets regularly on the first and third Tuesdays, 7 pm at city hall. The public is highly encouraged to attend.

Raises and budget concerns a hot topic for Bates County Commisioners

December 17, 2025 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

Zachary Olivas, with Great River Engineering, came by and gifted the Commission some lovely treats and discussed upcoming upgrades to bridge work.

John made sure to have Zachary add Bill, with Road and Bridge, to the email chain. Bill was unaware of the inspection meeting and could not make it when he found out just right before. Zachary was more than happy to add him so he would not miss any further information.

Kaylee Smith, also with Great River Engineering, came in shortly after Mr. Olivas and discussed the Southwest corner of the Court House by the HVAC system. There is an opening that was suggested to have a ramp installed but Kaylee and Jim thought that one singular step would suffice. Jim did not want to block it off completely due to chances of Emergency Services needing to get into the building during an emergency and not being able to enter that area for a quick entrance.

Josh Framel, with Clearway Energy Group, called and had an over-the-phone meeting to touch base with the Commission over their Chapter 100 Bond Agreement. John brought up the Mini Nuclear Plant that has broken ground in Kansas, wondering if this was going to be any sort of issue with the Agreement. Josh reassured John that everything was still in the clear.

John Gray got the bid from Kyle Osborn, with Fountain City Tinting, and shared the information with his fellow Commissioners. Kyle mentioned that there is existing tint on the windows that will need to be removed. His total included removal and installation of tint.

Jami Page met with the Commission to review the budget. The Commission approved a COLA of 4% and left it up to the Elected Official to increase their salary by the Performance Evaluation without a cap. Prosecuting Attorney’s Office is requesting a 10% increase for employees. There were slight concern about such matters since other offices are requesting 6% or lower increases.

Jami also reviewed the BCSO Budget. The Sheriff's Office will be getting 100% of the Use Tax Revenue so the Commission had Jami add a line item to his expense budget to track what the Sheriff will be spending the use tax money on. The Sheriff had put $0 in that line item when he turned his budget worksheets in. When general revenue received a portion of the Use Tax Money, there was an expense line item in the budget that said Use Tax Expense. This is in place so every dollar that was spent from the Use Tax Money could be tracked. Jami said the Commission will need to decide if they want the Sheriff to put an amount other than zero in The Use Tax line item. Lastly, Jami discussed the Assessors budget, and the Assessor estimated his revenues for 2026 to be $361,062.00 and his expenses to be $476,375.00. His expenses include the new software support. As of January 1, 2026, the Assessor must have $115,313.00 cash on hand for his budget to balance. If he does not have this amount in the bank on January 1st, he will need to cut his expenses. He will also need to receive every dollar that he projected to cover his expenses. If that does not happen, his budget will not be balanced, and Jami can't submit a budget to the State Auditor that does not balance.

December 22, 2025 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

Bill Stephan, from Road and Bridge, met with the Commissioners and let them know there are no new culverts until 2026. He went over bridge improvement details dealing with the MODOT inspection and reviewed the budget.

Kacie Robey sat down with Commission and discussed a mistake that was found on a certain party’s property. There was acreage that was listed wrongly and fees that had been sent out but since the acreage was listed incorrectly, it’s possible that the landowner did not receive the bill. The landowner is asking that these fees be waved due to this being an issue on the County’s end and not his. Trent made the motion to wave the late fees. John seconded the motion. All were in favor. Motion carried. No opposition.

The Commissioners sat down once they found out that Judge Baker will be closed for the full day on December 24th, 2025. That then led them to find out that the Governor, two weeks ago, authorized the closure of State Offices. Therefore, the Commission followed suit and will be closed the full day instead of a half day on December 24th, 2025.

Kacie’s office will remain open for a half day.

Missouri at high risk as flu season arrives

 

Missouri is glowing red-hot and sweating. . .

This is a CDC influenza map ending December 20, and the data for this week won't be out until Jan. 5. I would think we could be in the purple by then.

Flu this year is BAD - and it's going around like crazy. Take care of yourselves, my friends.

-Greg@660weather

Freeman man placed on probation in child porn case

On November 25, 2024 Samuel L. Sutcliffe 32, of Freeman Mo was taken into custody and was charged with Possession Of Child Pornography - 2nd Subsequent Offense of Possessing more than 20 Pics/One Film/Videotape {Felony B RSMo: 573.037}

Earlier this month Sutcliffe, represented by attorney Patrick O'Connor of Kansas City, MO plead guilty in Cass County court and was sentenced as follows:

Count 1 - 10 years in the MO DOC, SES, 5 years supervised probation by MO Probation and Parole. Special Conditions: Follow all recommendations including receiving sex offender specific treatment program with a clinical member of Associate for the Treatment of Sexual Abuse (ATSA), Treatments to be on a weekly basis and then modified by Provider thereafter accordingly; remain medication compliant with all medications as prescribed; do not consume any alcohol and do not enter any establishment where alcohol is the primary item for sale; obtain Mental Health Treatment; do not reside with anyone under that age of 18; abide by the Sex Offender Supervision Agreement and comply with all registration directives.

Obituary - Michael Moore

Michael Moore, age 73, of Urich, Missouri, passed away, peacefully with his family by his side, on Monday, December 29th, 2025. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 17, 2025 at the Urich Lion's Club in Urich, Missouri followed by military honors. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Croix Hospice or C.A.R.E. and may be left in care of the funeral home.

Michael Stephen Moore was born on April 18, 1952 in Jonesboro, Arkansas to Bill and Flo Moore. Michael was in the United States Marine Corps. He lived in Urich, Missouri for over 40 years.

Michael is preceded in death by his grandparents; William and Mollie Moore and Otto and Margaret Cannon, his parents Bill and Flo Moore, and brother Jimmy Whistle.

Survivors include his children; Brent Mosley of Harrisonville, Missouri, William Moore of Clinton, Missouri, Amy Elliot and husband Justin of Garden City, Missouri, Mollie (Moore) Wolfe and husband Rodney of Windsor, Missouri, Jimmy Powell and wife Courtney of Garden City, Missouri, and David Powell and wife Taisha of Creighton, Missouri, his sisters; Kim Bramell and husband Leroy of Urich, Missouri, and Cheryl Wantland of Festus, Missouri, as well as lots of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, cousins and numerous friends Mike considered to be family. He expressed to family how incredibly loved he felt by everyone around him.

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

Obituary - Linda Swink

 Linda Faye Swink, 75, Nevada, Mo passed away on Wednesday, December 24, 2025 at Overland Park Regional Medical Center in Overland Park, KS.

  Additional family and service times will be announced at a later date by Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.   

Obituary - Patricia Meyer

Patricia Ann Meyer, 95, of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025, at her home. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO, with a visitation beginning at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow in Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville, MO.

A complete obituary will be posted when it is available.

Obituary - Barbara Fenton

Barbara Jean Fenton, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Monday, December 29, 2025, at the age of 77. Barbara had an affinity for purple and butterflies, symbols of her vibrant spirit and love of life. In honoring her wishes, the family invites all who loved her to wear purple to her Celebration of Life, which will be held at Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville on Friday, January 2, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Memorial donations are suggested to American Liver Foundation or the National Kidney Foundation.

Born on December 13, 1948, in Salina, Kansas, she was the daughter of Wallace Warren Benson and Rosann Marie (Gustafson) Richter. Barbara's journey through life was marked by her unwavering love for her family and her warm, nurturing spirit. On July 21, 1968, Barbara married the love of her life, Don Fenton, at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church in Harrisonville, Missouri. Throughout her life, she embraced her roles with grace and joy, showing her dedication to her family and community. Barbara graduated from Harrisonville High School with the Class of 1966 and later pursued a career in cosmetology, earning her certification from Fashion Beauty School in 1974. Although she began her career as a cosmetologist, she ventured into running an in-home daycare and later working as a bank teller, ultimately finding her passion as a pharmacy technician, where she dedicated many years before retiring.

Barbara's heart was wide open for others. She was an active member of Women's Aglow and took great pride in her role as a Girl Scout leader, imparting her love and knowledge to future generations. Her adventurous spirit led her to embrace the great outdoors, cherishing moments spent camping and traveling, especially to Alaska and Germany. However, nothing brought her more joy than the gatherings with family and friends at her favorite restaurants, Cracker Barrel and Red Lobster.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Don Fenton; her sister, Paula Kohler; and her grandson, Derek Reynolds. She leaves behind a legacy of love, leaving behind her three children: Doug Fenton; Deana (Gabe) Dalton; and Diana (Zachary) Harding; her brother, Stan Benson; 14 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and one great-grandchild on the way. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Warmer than average NYE ahead...

 

Happy New Year! No hazardous weather to keep you from your plans.

Plenty of sunshine today with 50's and 60's. At midnight tonight expect the mid 30's to right around freezing in some places.

New Year's Day will cool down a few degrees with a bit more cloud cover around. Mid to upper 40's for most of us. Negligible winds and no precipitation in sight.

I'm looking around the 9th or 10th of January for our next shot at meaningful precipitation. It was a VERY dry December.

Have a great day. Wishing you the very best for 2026!

-Greg@660weather

Board Meeting Spotlights: Harrisonville Middle School

At the December Board of Education meeting, HMS principal Chad Culpepper highlighted the ways staff & students recognize local veterans, including the annual HMS Veterans Day Assembly, Coin Drive to benefit VFW, and the Patriot's Pen Essay Contest. 6th grader Kayden Bowers and 8th grader Cooper Schlechter presented information and read their Patriot's Pen essays to the board, along with videos of other top placing essays

Hit the New Year Running with This Healthy Meal Prep Plan

Take some time now to prepare for healthier eating when January rolls around.

As the holidays wind down and a new year approaches, many people start thinking about ways to get healthier, eat better and feel more energized. But instead of waiting until January to make a change, the smartest thing you can do is to start preparing now. Taking time to set up a simple meal prep system and plan a few meals means you’ll head into the new year already organized and ready to succeed.

Meal prepping is one of the most effective ways to build healthy habits that stick. When your meals are ready ahead of time, it’s easier to make nutritious choices, save money and avoid the stress of last-minute decisions. You don’t have to be a chef or spend hours in the kitchen to do it either. A little planning, a few simple ingredients and some reusable containers can go a long way in helping you eat better all week long.

How to Start a Healthy Meal Prep Routine

Here are some easy tips to get started with meal prepping.

• Make it a routine. Plan to set aside one or two days each week for prepping so it becomes part of your schedule. Many people find Sunday is the ideal day to get ready for the week.
• Start small. If you’re new to meal prepping, focus on just one meal, like lunches for the week, until you find a routine that works for you. Once that feels easy, expand to other meals.
• Do some research. Find healthy breakfast, lunch or dinner recipes that meet your dietary goals, suit your tastes and use similar ingredients. When you can prep ingredients once to be used in multiple recipes, it makes things easier.
• Plan before you shop. Once you decide on your menu for the week, make a grocery list to make sure you have everything you need before you start prepping. This saves time and also cuts down on impulse buys.
• Get creative. Even if you don’t follow specific recipes, get in the habit of mixing and matching ingredients to create different meals so you don’t get bored. For example, grilled or roasted chicken can be added to a grain bowl one day, a salad the next and a wrap or taco later in the week. A pot of brown rice or quinoa can serve as the base for a stir-fry, a burrito bowl or a veggie-packed lunch. Roasted vegetables can be added to eggs for breakfast, tossed into salads or served alongside fish or tofu for dinner.
• Make easy-to-freeze foods. Soups, stews, chilis and casseroles can easily be stored in individual containers in the freezer to be eaten at a later time, so you have ready-to-go meals even when you don’t have time to meal prep. Breakfast burritos and muffins also freeze well.
• Add variety with seasonings and sauces. A change in flavor can make the same ingredients feel completely new. Use herbs, spices and healthy sauces to keep things interesting.
• Portion and store smartly. Use airtight, microwave-safe containers to keep food fresh. Store dressings, sauces and toppings separately so meals stay crisp and flavorful. If you plan to freeze meals for later enjoyment, label with the date.

When it comes to healthy eating, preparation goes a long way. By thinking about your meal prep plan now, you’ll head into January with the confidence and momentum to reach your goals in the new year.

Copyright 2025 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® Heart Healthy Recipes® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Learn more about protecting yourself with farm lease agreements

As the year wraps up, it’s the perfect time for Missouri landowners and tenants to take a close look at their farm leases.

Anyone using a verbal farm lease should review the newly updated guide “Verbal Farm Rental Agreements Under Missouri Law,” now available as a free download. Verbal leases are legal in Missouri and offer flexibility, but they can also cause confusion, especially when it’s time to renew or terminate an agreement.

Because misunderstandings can arise when terms are only discussed verbally, MU Extension recommends having all farm leases in writing. A written agreement protects both parties, reduces disputes and clearly documents expectations, responsibilities and timelines.

Start 2026 on solid ground and review your lease, understand your rights and set the stage for a successful year.

https://brnw.ch/21wYJfK

Stolen truck recovered in Vernon county

The Vernon county sheriff's office recovered a stolen F-350 this morning 12/29/2025 after receiving an anonymous tip out by the Walker area. The stolen vehicle recovered was reported stolen from liberal Police department out of Barton county. This is an ongoing investigation and we are looking at all leads as far as possible suspects. Courtesy Vernon County Sheriff's Office

Appleton City Senior Spotlight- Katie Gilkey

 

Notice regarding temporary changes at Adrian schools

 Dear Parents and Guardians,

Due to the construction of the new gym, we are implementing temporary changes to student drop-off procedures on the north side of the Adrian R-III School District.

Please note: There will be NO parent drop-off allowed in the north parking lot or the north gravel parking lot.

The north parking lot and north gravel parking lot will be used for student parking only and will not be accessible for parent vehicles during arrival and dismissal times.

As shown on the attached map, all parent drop-off and parent pick-ups must take place on Hazel Street. Parents should remain in their vehicles, pull along the designated curb area, and allow students to exit safely. Please follow all posted signage and directions from school staff to help keep traffic moving efficiently.

These changes are necessary to ensure the safety of students, staff, and construction crews while work on the new gym is underway. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we adjust to these temporary procedures.

Additional updates will be shared as construction progresses. If you have any questions, please contact the school office.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Don Lile

Superintendent

Adrian R-III School District

Relocation of Metz depot still under consideration

Co- Chairman Ronnie Fritts and President Kelly Seilman has announced there will be another trip to the Metz, Mo. depot on January 10th. The group will meet at 9 am at the showgrounds. This will be a " fact finding" trip to get a better assessment of the buildings foundation. Everyone who would like to attend is welcome to do so. Once we have this information we will be able to host a board meeting and decide what actions need to be taken for its possible relocation to Frontier Village in Adrian, Mo.

Rich Hill Senior Spotlight- Madelyn Byrd

 

Community Cafe schedule

 

10 die on Missouri roads over Christmas holiday

Patrol Reports 10 Fatalities; No Drownings, Boating Crashes Over 2025 Christmas Holiday

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports 10 people died in traffic crashes during this year’s Christmas holiday counting period–from 6 p.m. Wednesday, December 24, 2025, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, December 28, 2025. There were no boating crashes or drownings.

During the Christmas holiday counting period, troopers report the following traffic statistics for 2025 (preliminary):

Crashes ─ 258
Injuries ─ 94
Fatalities ─ 10
DWI Arrests ─ 93

During the 2024 Christmas holiday counting period, troopers investigated 81 traffic crashes, which included four fatalities and 44 injuries. Statewide, five people died and 133 people were injured in 295 traffic crashes over last year’s Christmas holiday. Troopers arrested 18 people for driving while intoxicated during the 2024 Christmas holiday counting period.

There were zero boating crashes, zero boating fatalities, zero drowning, and zero boating while intoxicated arrests during the 2025 Christmas holiday counting period.

Further details related to the traffic crashes and arrests can be found on the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s website.

NOTE: The Christmas Day holiday counting period varies from 1.25 to 4.25 days in length, depending on which day of the week the holiday falls. In 2025, Christmas Day fell on a Thursday, making the holiday period 4.25 days. In 2024, Christmas Day fell on a Wednesday, making the holiday period 1.25 days.

Slightly warmer, no hazardous weather for awhile

 

No hazardous weather expected the next 7 days! Overnight lows are in the upper 20's and low 30's.

-Greg@660weather

Additional charges filed in death of Pleasanton youth

Detectives with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department have announced that additional charges have been filed against Damon Leonard, 47, of Pleasanton, Kan., in connection with the death of his 13-year-old neighbor, Airen Andula.

Leonard was originally charged in Bates County, Mo. with abandonment of a corpse related to the boy's death. KCKPD detectives have now filed further charges in Linn County, Kan. including interference with law enforcement, criminal desecration, and having a vicious dog at large. Multiple dogs were also seized from his property. The investigation remains ongoing, with the potential for additional charges being filed.

This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Anyone with information on this case is urged to call the Crime Stoppers TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477) or online at KCcrimestoppers.com All tips remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward. All tips remain anonymous and may qualify for a cash reward. There is nothing further to report at this time.

Obituary - Mary Wills

Mary Elizabeth Wills, 87, of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2025. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville, MO, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, followed by a brief service at 11:00. Interment will be at Wills Cemetery in Peculiar, MO.

Mary was born in Worland, MO, on December 5, 1938, the daughter of Jacob McMillen Sr. and Charlotte (Jenkins) McMillen. She graduated from Harrisonville High School. She married Wayne Smith and together they had four sons.

On December 11, 1969, Mary married the love of her life, Don Wills. They enjoyed playing, singing, and listening to country music with friends, and spending time with family. They lived most of their lives in the Cass County area, except for a few years spent in Southwest City, MO. After Don’s passing in 2010, Mary reconnected with an old friend, Morris Schmoll, and they were married on June 22, 2014. Morris also preceded Mary in death.

Mary was an escort driver for Don when he worked delivering prefabricated homes. She also worked at the GM Leeds Assembly Plant. She earned a degree from Longview Community College in her later years and worked for the National Association of Parliamentarians until she retired from the workforce in 2001.

Mary had a strong Christian faith and was baptized at the Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church in Harrisonville, MO. She was a member of the Antioch Baptist Church in Harrisonville, MO. She enjoyed watching her sons and grandsons compete at local race tracks, and even participated in, and won, a few women’s powder puff events.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jacob and Charlotte McMillen; husband, Don Wills; four brothers; and three sisters. She is survived by her sons: Terry Smith (Lesa), Gene Smith (Leanne), Shawn Smith, and Don Smith; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Obituary - Janet Burch

A celebration of life service for Janet Burch of Adrian, Missouri will be 1 p.m. Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri.  Visitation will be 6 - 8 p.m. Friday, January 2 at the Schowengerdt Chapel.  Burial in Crescent Hill Cemetery, Adrian.  Contributions to the Adrian United Methodist Church building fund or Lily’s House.  Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Janet Rose Burch, age 86 of Adrian, Missouri died Sunday, December 28, 2025 at her home.  She was born September 23, 1939 to Harvey Morton and Elenora Lorraine Jundy Crawford in Amsterdam, Missouri.

Janet had a wonderful childhood, growing up in the Amsterdam area with her sisters Donna and Karen.  She attended Miami High School where she loved to play basketball.  At age 17 she married Robert Dean Burch.  Over the next 60 plus years they raised three children–Wayne, Ella Mae and Linda on their farm near Adrian.  Farm work was hard but they always found time to attend the kid’s sporting events, ride their motorcycle and create many wonderful memories with family and friends.  They loved to go dancing on Saturday night–it seemed to be medicine for their souls.  Together they taught their kids to work hard, love life and cherish family and friends.

They took many trips including Australia, Ireland and Hawaii.  Whether with Barb and Ivan, their kids, grandkids, or friends, they made it a point to make memories.  Janet also managed to take a lot of trips on her own, including Red Hatter trips, a trip to Europe, numerous Branson trips and more.  After Robert passed away eight years ago, Janet continued traveling.  She took cruises and went to Colorado, Kansas City, Springfield and Tulsa on a regular basis.  She was always ready for a road trip!  If you were up for a shopping spree, just call Janet!  She was a pro at it and always willing to be the chauffeur.  If you are in need of shoes, size 6 ½ - 7 just stop by the house to shop!

Janet loved her family, friends, flowers and life in general.  She had the ability to make everyone feel welcome and important.  Her life reflected the life, light and love of God.  Her greatest desire was that her family and friends learn to trust God and walk with Him.  One of her favorite sayings was a quote from her Grandpa Jundy, “Don’t trouble trouble until trouble troubles you.”  Janet will be greatly missed by her family, her church and her community.  As mom always said…”It is what it is!”

Janet is survived by one son, Wayne Burch and fiancé Katherine Ann King of Overland Park, Kansas; two daughters, Ella Mae Mitchell and husband Larry of Butler, Missouri and Linda Neil and husband Brett of Bixby, Oklahoma; six grandchildren, Ian and wife Kate, Claire, Lance, Lindsey and husband Chris, Josh and wife Brie and Caleb and wife Jamie; six great-grandchildren, Henry, Blair, Jude, Rowan, Sloan and Jack; two sisters, Karen Grimsley of Amoret, Missouri and Donna Booth and husband Wendell of Wheatland, Missouri; and one brother-in-law, Leland Burch of Butler, Missouri.  Janet was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert Burch (2-18-2017); one grandson, Blane Mitchell; and one great-granddaughter, Adalynn Neil.

Obituary - Margaret Hess

Funeral services for Margaret Hess of Hume, Missouri will be 10 a.m. Monday, January 5, 2026 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri.  Visitation will be 4 - 6 p.m. Sunday, January 4 at the Schowengerdt Chapel.  Burial in Underwood Cemetery, Hume.  Contributions to Underwood Cemetery or charity of choice.  Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Margaret Edith Hess, age 97 of Hume, Missouri died Saturday, December 27, 2025 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.  She was born April 21, 1928 to Irvie Maxie and Maude Elizabeth Ewan Wilson south of  Hume, Missouri.

Margaret attended grade school at Wolf and graduated from Metz High School in 1946.  Following high school, Margaret attended secretarial school in Kansas City, Missouri–all the while, being a nanny for a family and spending a summer in New York with them.  Following secretarial school, Margaret was employed by Western Insurance in Fort Scott, Kansas.

Margaret was united in marriage to Marvin Hess on September 9, 1953 at the Underwood Church.  She was a homemaker and active farm wife, working with cattle and in the fields alongside her husband.  Margaret enjoyed family, events that her grandchildren and great-grandchildren participated in, reading and fishing.  She also served on the Underwood Cemetery Board.

Margaret is survived by two daughters, Marlene Clark and husband Gary of Monett, Missouri and Marthena Spainhoward and husband Scott of Uniontown, Kansas; five grandchildren, Ash Clark and wife Melanie, Garrett Clark and wife Cara, Mitchel Spainhoward and wife Brandi, Luke Spainhoward and wife Jayme and Kaitlin Spainhoward; seven great-grandchildren; and one brother, Marvin Wilson of Prairie Village, Kansas.  Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Marvin (12-21-2013); and one sister, Maxine Henty.

Weekly report from the Henry County Sheriff's Office

𝑯𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒚 𝑪𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒚 𝑺𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒇𝒇’𝒔 𝑶𝒇𝒇𝒊𝒄𝒆

𝑾𝒆𝒆𝒌𝒍𝒚 𝑨𝒓𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰𝒏𝒄𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑹𝒆𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕

𝑫𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒔: December 19, 2025 – December 25, 2025

Sheriff Aaron N. Brown reports the following arrests and incidents for the week:

________________________________________

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝/𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝:

Sergeant Richardson conducted a traffic stop in the rural Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Juan Mireles-Segundo, age 48, of Kansas City for driving while suspended/revoked 1st offense.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭:

Deputy Saulter arrested Justyn Barrett, age 31, of Clinton at the courthouse on a Henry County no bond warrant for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful use of a weapon.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝/𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝:

Deputy England conducted a traffic stop in the Windsor area that resulted in the arrest of Sabrina Metcalf, age 29, of Windsor for driving while suspended/revoked.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞:

Sergeant Brandt conducted a follow-up investigation in the rural Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Royce Singleton, age 48, of Clinton for Harassment 1st degree.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭:

Deputy Hysom and Deputy Stevens conducted a warrant service in the Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Chad Beebe, age 59, of Clinton on a Henry County traffic warrant.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭:

Deputy Hysom and Deputy Stevens conducted a warrant service in the rural Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Cheyenne Woolery, age 28, of Leeton on a Cass County warrant.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟐, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝/𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝:

Deputy Murphy and Deputy Caldwell conducted a traffic stop in the Windsor that resulted in the arrest of Jeffery Dunn, age 70, of Warsaw for driving while suspended/revoked 2nd or subsequent offense.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟐, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭:

Sergeant Richardson conducted a traffic stop in the rural Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Randy Cox, age 23, of Lincoln for driving while suspended/revoked 1st offense and on a Cass County warrant for traffic offenses.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟐, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 / 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭:

Deputy Saulters located a vehicle that left the scene of an accident and contacted Billy Curlee, age 46, of Warrensburg who was with the vehicle. Curlee was arrested on a Johnson County warrant for driving while suspended/revoked and a Cass County felony warrant for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of a weapon. Sergeant Logan, Corporal Douglas arrived on scene to assist Deputy Saulters and they located a controlled substance and firearms in Curlee’s possession. Curlee was arrested and placed on a 24 hour hold for possession of a weapon and controlled substance, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance. On the same day Henry County Prosecuting Attorney filed formal charges, and a felony warrant was issued for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Unlawful use of a weapon.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟑, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭:

Deputy Stevens conducted a warrant service in the Calhoun area that resulted in the arrest of Ryan White, age 30, of Calhoun on a Henry County failure to appear warrant.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟑, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭:

Sergeant Logan, Corporal Douglas, Detective Stutzman, Deputy Harms and Deputy Stevens conducted a warrant service in the Windsor area that resulted in the arrest of Cheryl Knecht, age 49, of Windsor on a Henry County no bond probation violation warrants x3 and a Henry County fail to appear warrant.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟑, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭: Deputy Hysom conducted a warrant service in the rural Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Joshua Mullen, age 44, of Clinton on Henry County felony warrants for endangering the welfare of a child 1st degree and possession of a controlled substance X2.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟑, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝/𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝: Deputy Chaney conducted a traffic stop in the Windsor area that resulted in the arrest of Andrew Pickens, age 35, of Windsor for driving while suspended/revoked.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟓, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: Sgt. Brandt responded to the Montrose area regarding a physical disturbance that resulted in the arrest of Dorthy Canada, age 22, of Windsor. Canada was arrested for two counts of assault.

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟓, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 – 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭: Deputy Hysom conducted a warrant service in the rural Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Gary Bellinger, age 23, of Clinton on a Henry County warrant for sexual misconduct

• 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟓, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 - 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝/𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝: Deputy Hinkle conducted a traffic stop in the rural Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Rayne Cassin-Brown, age 27, for driving while suspended/revoked.

All individuals arrested are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The above arrests are allegations at this time.

For additional information or to provide tips, contact the Henry County Sheriff’s Office at (660) 885-5587.