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Monday, June 22, 2026
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As 2026 brings record tick season, here's what can help
In the United States, ticks are responsible for more human disease than any other insect. Tickborne diseases are also known as zoonotic diseases. A zoonotic disease is an infectious disease that can be transmitted between animals and humans. Ticks are very effective transmitters of disease because most ticks take blood from a large variety of small and large mammals, reptiles and even birds. In general, ticks must ingest a blood meal before they can molt and move to the next stage in their life cycle. Ticks become infected with a disease-causing agent by feeding on infected mammals or birds. For example, a tick can pick up Lyme disease from a field mouse, and later in its life transmit bacteria to a deer, dog or human.
Many tickborne diseases have been reported in Missouri: Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, tularemia, Heartland virus, Bourbon virus, Lyme or a lyme-like disease and the southern tick-associated rash illness.
Tickborne diseases are a type of emerging disease, many of them first recognized in the last 30 years. Human case numbers per year for tickborne diseases are generally on the rise. This upward trend is due to better recognition and disease reporting, but is also a reflection of changes in the environment that fosters increased exposure and transmission to humans. Fortunately, not all ticks are infected, so a tick bite does not necessarily mean you will get a disease. More importantly, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) wants people to know that when they take precautions, they can reduce their chance of being bitten.
Tick bites can also lead to an allergic condition called Alpha-Gal Syndrome. When a tick bites you, it can put a tiny molecule called alpha-gal into your body. Some people’s immune systems react to this molecule and make antibodies. This can cause allergic reactions when they eat red meat or other foods from mammals like cows or pigs.
Tickborne Disease Prevention
Understanding a little about tick behavior can give some clues on how to avoid being bitten. For example, one tried-and-true prevention measure is to walk in the center of trails to avoid overhanging brush and tall grass. This is effective because of the way some ticks seek a host, which is called "questing." A questing tick will perch itself, front legs extended, on the stems of grass, low brush or on the edges of leaves on the ground. Using this ambush strategy, the tick waits until a suitable host brushes against the vegetation. Ticks do not jump, fall or fly and are generally found within three feet of the ground.
Carbon dioxide, which is exhaled while breathing, as well as heat and movement serve as stimuli for tick questing behavior. Using an insect repellent that contains DEET on your skin protects you because it interferes with ticks' ability to locate you. Another repellant called permethrin, which is used on clothing, actually kills ticks (as well as mosquitoes and chiggers). Permethrin products are designed to bind with fabric and persist through launderings when used according to label directions.
Once on a host, the tick seeks a place to attach and take a blood meal. Ticks attach on people in many places, but are most frequently found around the head, neck, underarms, and groin. Light-colored clothing helps you spot ticks more easily and tucking or even taping your pant legs into your socks helps slow them down in their quest for your skin. Prompt, careful inspection and removal of ticks is an important method of preventing disease.
If you find an attached tick, it should be removed promptly. The longer it is attached the greater the risk of infection. There are many "old wives tales" about how to remove a tick. However, to reduce the chance of disease transmission correctly using tweezers or commercial tick removal tools is preferred. The key to using tweezers correctly is to position the tips of tweezers around the area where the tick's mouthparts enter the skin. Then use a slow, steady motion when pulling the tick a way from the skin. After removing the tick, disinfect the skin with soap and water, or other available disinfectants.
DHSS has prepared a fact sheet for each of the most common tickborne diseases in Missouri:Rocky Mountain spotted fever
Ehrlichiosis
Tularemia
Heartland and Bourbon viruses
Lyme/Lyme-like disease
If you want information on how to be careful and still enjoy the outdoors, check out the DHSS checklist of tick-bite prevention techniques and download or order a copy of the DHSS Check, Check, Check for Ticks information card.
Signs and Symptoms of Tickborne Disease
The signs and symptoms of tickborne disease vary among individuals and differ according to the infecting agent. In general, a person should consider consulting a health care provider whenever he or she experiences a sudden high fever, severe headache, muscle or joint aches, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. If these symptoms occur following a tick bite, or even after exposure to a tick habitat, the health care provider should be informed of this fact. Another possible sign of tickborne disease is a rash or pus-filled wound that appears at the site of a tick bite, or a spreading rash that follows a tick bite or exposure to tick habitat.
Reporting Tickborne Disease
Most tickborne diseases, such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, tularemia, and Lyme or a lyme-like disease are reportable in Missouri. Reporting helps DHSS monitor disease trends, track unusual occurrences or clusters of diseases and identify possible risk factors associated with diseases. If you want to know more about reporting diseases and conditions in Missouri, the DHSS Reportable Disease List and the Communicable Disease Investigation Reference Manual are available on the DHSS website.
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Update regarding injuries during last night's Butler Saddle Club rodeo
We are incredibly grateful for the quick response of our emergency personnel, BCMH Ambulance Service, and everyone who assisted during the situation. Our thoughts and prayers have been with the young man, his family, and friends since the incident occurred.
Thank you to everyone who has reached out with concern and support. We ask that you continue to keep him and his family in your thoughts as he recovers.
-Butler Saddle Club
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Two arrests made following burglary investigation in Vernon county
All subjects are innocent until proven guilty.
Burlingame, David:
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
Burglary 2nd Degree
Possession of a Controlled Substance
Unlawful Use of Weapon
$25,000 cash only bond
Byram, Dakota:
Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
Burglary 2nd Degree
Possession of a Controlled Substance
Unlawful Use of Weapon
$25,000 cash only bond
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Don’t Wait on Joint Replacement: Hip Surgery Recovery at BCMH
“I Could Hardly Walk”: Jerl Leonard’s Hip Replacement Story
Jerl Leonard, 87, spent months struggling with hip pain that radiated into his back and made walking increasingly difficult. After trying other options without relief, his daughter suggested he see Dr. Jon Blake, orthopedic surgeon at Bates County Memorial Hospital.
The photos shown here were taken just a few weeks after Jerl’s hip replacement surgery at BCMH.
For Jerl, recovery has progressed steadily.
“Before surgery, I could hardly walk. Now, I have very little pain, and I’m getting around really well. I hope anyone else who needs it will get it done,” Jerl said.
After surgery, he experienced only a few days of soreness before the pain began to ease. Once his staples were removed and healing was confirmed, he continued building strength through home health visits and physical therapy.
“I still use a walker for now, but I’m working on stairs with my therapist,” he says. “Within a few weeks, I may be able to move around without it.”
Dr. Blake notes that Jerl’s experience reflects what many patients hope for.
“Most patients experience significant arthritic pain relief soon after surgery,” he says. “With home health and physical therapy, they gradually regain strength and independence.”
At the same time, Dr. Blake emphasizes that healing continues even after pain improves.
“Sometimes patients feel so much better right away that they assume they’re fully healed,” he explains. “Even when pain is gone, the body is still repairing tissue and adapting to the new joint. Following post operative guidelines closely is critical to protect that progress and ensure long term success.”
Jerl’s recommendation, after surgery?
“It’s a really good idea. Go ahead and get it done.”
When to Seek Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgery is usually considered after conservative treatments such as medication, injections, or physical therapy are no longer enough.
Key Signs
Persistent hip or groin pain that affects walking or sleep
Difficulty climbing stairs or completing everyday tasks
Pain radiating to the back or other joints
Risks of Delaying Surgery
“Waiting too long can make recovery more difficult,” Dr. Blake explains. “Muscle weakness, decreased mobility, and additional joint stress can prolong rehabilitation.”
Hip Replacement Surgery: Approximate Recovery Timeline
Week 1–3: Walking with assistance
Week 4–6: Increasing mobility
Week 6+: Return to normal activities
Ready to Talk About Joint Replacement Surgery?
If hip or joint pain is limiting your independence or keeping you from daily activities, it may be time to explore treatment options. Schedule a consultation with the orthopedic specialty clinic at Bates County Memorial Hospital.
Contact BCMH at 660-200-7006. No referral is required.
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Recipe of the Week
Chopped Chimichurri Steak Salad
1 pound flank steak, trimmed
2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons neutral oil, such as vegetable oil
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, grated
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup chopped Persian cucumbers
1/2 cup drained and chopped roasted red bell peppers
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/2 medium avocado, cubed
Preheat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Season steak with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Add oil to the preheated skillet and carefully add the steak; cook, flipping occasionally, until deeply browned and an instant-read thermometer registers 120 degrees F (48.8 degrees C), 6 to 8 minutes per side. Transfer steak to a cutting board and cover with aluminum foil to rest for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, parsley, cilantro, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, honey, oregano, crushed red pepper, remaining 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a small bowl.
Toss tomatoes, cucumbers, roasted red bell pepper, and red onion with 1/2 cup of the dressing in a large serving bowl.
Slice rested steak against the grain and cut into 1-inch pieces; toss with salad and avocado. Drizzle with remaining 1/4 cup dressing before serving.
Per serving: 458 calories; 37g fat; 11g carbs; 23g protein
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A silent honor
On June 17th Gary Ratliff , John Gray and Jami Page hung a wreath at the tragic crash site on the Butler Memorial airport property. The wreath was made by Alicia Lindsey for the Welcome Home Ceremony at The Wall That Heals and it seemed fitting to leave the wreath at the site since Alicia and Travis were such good friends with the pilot.
May God give peace and comfort to the family and friends of those lost.
Jami Page
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Bates County real estate transfers and marriage licenses
Leonard, Judy to Kelce Investments, LLC Bl 34 Butler, Original Town Of
Park West Estates II, L.P.Sargent, Ericka R. Lt 5 Bl A Park West Re-Plat #1 P4/61
Evans, Bobby to Mcelwain, Dalton Str 15-40-31 //Se
Nitsche Family Trust 6-10-2009 to Christopher, Linda Lt 16 Country South+
Gilmore, Walter D to Gilmore, Curtis Str 22-40-29 //Se
Berry, Maigen N. to Settles, Jasmin N. Lt 7 Bl 2 Mccoy's Addn, Resurvey & Resubdiv
Herrell, Jacob to Heiman, Scott Str 15-40-32
Herrell, Jacob to Herrell, Jacob Str 14-40-32 //Ne
Means, Sarah to Norris, Ralph Str 14-38-29 //Ne
Hamersley, Tracy to French, Paul B Bl 2 Wyatt's First Addn
Ridgway, Beverly A to Mckinzie, Ethan Lt 1 Bl 21 Amoret, Original Town Of+
Christopher, Stephen K to Collett, Sean D Lt 1 Bl 6 Warner's, J. A. Addn+
Berry, Kellie to Mathies, Rhonda Str 5-39-31 //Se
CTC Rentals to Simons, Patrick A Lt 7 Bl 1 Scott's Addn
Hough, James D to Hough, W Ryan Str 35-39-29 //Ne
Blevins, Evelyn Renae to Arney, Mark L Str 34-42-31 //Ne
Thompson, Gary L to Cumpton, Justin Lt 25 Town Company's First Addn+
Marriage license
McCoy, Aaron Thomas and Cahill, Samantha Blake
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Bates County Court News
Judge Julie Highley-Keutzer presiding
Fines do not include added court costs
St v Samari Washington- speeding, fine $80.50
St v Ethan Thomas- speeding, fine $120.50
St v Andrew Miller- no working horn, fine $144.00
St v Dara Knight- no working horn, fine $144.00
City of Rich Hill v Kaylynn Allen- defective equipment, fine $188.50
St v Timothy Murphy- speeding, fine$80.50
St v Brielle Teh- speeding, fine $200.50
St v Bridger Collins- speeding, fine $120.50
St v Marwin Novacarreno- no working horn, fine $200.00
City of Rich Hill v John Williamson- expired plates, fine $50.50
St v Addilyn Hargis- speeding, fine $80.50
City of Butler v Mellenie Estes- no proof of insurance, fine $150.00
City of Butler v Kyle Thompson- no proof of insurance, fine $100.00
City of Adrian v Grant Stacey- expired plates, fine $100.00
City of Butler v Kyle Thompson- equipment violation, fine $100.00
City of Butler v Mellenie Estes- expired plates, fine $125.00
City of Butler v Kendra Dunn- fail to register vehicle, fine $50.50
City of Butler v Jennifer Phelan- expired plates, fine $75.00
City of Butler v Jennifer Phelan- no proof of insurance, fine $100.00
St v Luke Mouton- speeding, fine $50.50
St v Connor Black- speeding, fine $80.50
City of Rich Hill v Kimberly Brashear- animal at large, fine $100.00
City of Butler v Patricia McGuire- zoning code violation, fine $125.00
City of Rich Hill v Bonnie Miller- no animal license, fine $75.00
St v Henry Hubbard- fail to display plates, fine $64.50
City of Rich Hill v Jason Courter- expired plates, fine $50.50
St v Angelque Yelloweyes- speeding, fine $200.50
St v Steven Ifamilik- speeding, fine $80.50
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What’s Up by LeRoy Cook
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Bearing Up and Carrying On
It was a somber, subdued week at the Butler airport, after the terrible tragedy of the previous weekend. There was a three-day FAA-imposed closing of airspace up to 3000 feet that expired Wednesday evening, after which normal operations resumed. NTSB investigations concluded after Tuesday so road access could resume. Any findings will be announced only after the agency finishes its work, which can take a year or more. Meanwhile, the twelve families of the deceased and everyone affected deserve continued prayers and support.
As far as transient traffic was concerned, the mostly open flying weather saw quite a few visitors coming and going, including a Cirrus SR-22 from St. Louis, a Cessna Skylane from Ft. Collins, Colorado and a nice homebuilt Van’s RV-7 from Mt. Vernon. A Piper Archer and a Cessna 172 were also in. Locally, the BCS AirTractor sprayplane was back hard at work, Jeremie Platt had his Grumman Tiger out and Gerald Bauer was up in the Cessna Skyhawk.
World-wide, there was news last week out of Nigeria, where a 1988 Challenger 601 business jet landed on a newly-built unopened concrete roadway, rather than the nearby airport, for undisclosed reasons. Then it was turned around after a three-hour stay and took off for repositioning; Nigerian officials are not happy over the stunt. The pilot was 70 years old, overage by Nigerian rules. The airplane is registered to a Salt Lake City ownership.
Stateside, the Air Force is not happy over the latest round of TFR busts in New Jersey, where our President frequents one of his golf courses. Pilots are supposed to keep track of his comings and goings and avoid the intermittent no-fly zone, but as can happen, some people don’t get the word and F-16s and Black Hawks have to be scrambled to identify the intruder. It happened 15 times in the first half of June.
Also, the FAA is getting serious about drone incursions over World Cup locations, which are supposed to be covered by no-drone notices. Homeland Security has logged 145 violations in the first week of the games. Confiscation and interdiction measures are being taken, and as soon as the perpetrators can be located, heavy fines and license revocations are levied. The cheap and easily-flown Chinese drones are often in the hands of operators who don’t care about rules and security, just grabbing videos and gaining notoriety.
The F-35 fighter jet program is in trouble. The Government Accountability Office found that of the 800 F-35’s that have been delivered, only 25-percent are fully flyable at any given time. The highly complex Lightning II is fragile and parts are in short supply, as are people to work on the planes. This aircraft was supposed to serve all branches of our military and allies air forces as well, but it hasn’t worked out so well. The USAF’s eventual solution may be the General Atomics’ FQ-42A unmanned fighter/bomber and Anduril’s FQ-44A, of which they plan to buy 1000 units.
From last week’s column, we wanted to know if there any instrument approach procedures for seaplane bases. Yes, there’s one at Ridgely Lake in Minnesota. For next week, do you know why there’s a aviation-related monument out in the Kansas Flint Hills with the date March 31, 1931 on it? You can send your answers to kochhaus1@gmail.com.
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That's a wrap: 2026 Butler Saddle Club Rodeo ends on high note
Butler Saddle Club Princess Reid Davis and Queen Allyson Spurgeon were crowned Sunday evening as part of the annual Butler Saddle Club Rodeo festivities
Threatening skies and muddy conditions didn't hamper the 73rd Annual Butler Saddle Club Rodeo over the weekend as the turnout was great despite it all with reports that some folks traveled a considerable distance to the Bates County Fairgrounds.
Weekend winners included:
Mutton bustin - Tinlee Liles, 6, daughter of Jack and Charlie Liles of Adrian MO
Queen - Allyson Spurgeon, 17 year old daughter of Anthony and Amber Spurgeon of Adrian
Princess - Reid Davis, 13 year old daughter of Shelley Davis of Rockville, MO
Wild Horse Race - Osage Outlaw Colten Haman of Dayton, IA; Dalton Bogan of Pawhuska, OK and Hoss Henry of Skatook, OK.
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Code 1 Wellness Continues Support Following Tragic Butler Plane Crash
Code 1 Wellness was on scene Sunday evening assisting families, the Bates County Sheriff’s Posse, first responders, and others involved during the response to the incident. The organization provided emotional support during what was described as an extremely difficult and traumatic time for families and responders.Code 1 Wellness is a rural Missouri behavioral health organization that provides mental health services, substance use support, peer support, crisis response, trauma-informed care, telehealth services, and community-based wellness resources. The organization serves first responders, veterans, families, court-involved individuals, and community members facing trauma, grief, stress, substance use, or mental health challenges.
Organization leaders said traumatic incidents can have a lasting impact not only on the families directly affected, but also on first responders, witnesses, friends, neighbors, and the broader community. Emotional responses to tragedy may happen immediately or may surface days, weeks, or months later.
Code 1 Wellness stated that there is no specific timeline for grief, shock, or emotional processing, and the organization wants residents to know help remains available.
“When tragedy strikes, people need to know they are not alone,” said Vanessa Kennedy, CEO and Founder of Code 1 Wellness. “Whether someone needs support right away or weeks from now, we want our community to know we are still here. We will continue to be here for the families, first responders, and anyone affected for as long as we are needed.”
Code 1 Wellness extends its condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the tragedy. The organization also recognized the work of first responders, sheriff’s posse members, emergency personnel, volunteers, faith leaders, and community partners who came together to assist during the incident.
Community members who need support or would like more information about available services are encouraged to contact Code 1 Wellness. Services may be available in person (peer-supported) or through telehealth, depending on individual needs and availability.
Code 1 Wellness
Adrian, Missouri
(816) 372-2948
info@code1wellness.org
www.code1wellness.org
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Sunday, June 21, 2026
Obituary - Jack Cherry
Graveside services will be at 3:00p.m., Friday, June 26, 2026, at Newton Burial Park, Nevada, MO.
Additional family information will be announced by Ferry Funeral Home.
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Obituary - Carolyn Jean (Claxton) Snyder
No services are planned at this time, courtesy Ferry Funeral Home
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Obituary - Craig Alan Wood
Funeral service will be 10 am Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at the Schneider Funeral Home, Pleasanton Chapel. Burial in Littell Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 pm Monday, June 22 at the Pleasanton Chapel. Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Diabetes Association. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.
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Obituary - Sharion Uvonne Gillespie
Funeral service will be 11 am Monday, June 22, 2026 at the Pleasanton Presbyterian Church. Burial will be in the Pleasanton Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 pm Sunday, June 21 at the Schneider Funeral Home Pleasanton Chapel. Memorial contributions are suggested to Concern Inc. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.
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Obituary - Jesse Conner
Visitation will be held 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri.
Funeral Service will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri with interment at Garden City Cemetery, Garden City, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the family to pay for funeral expenses. Donations can be sent through Cash App with the ID $JesseConnerMemorial or mailed to Dickey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, Missouri 64701.
A complete obituary will be posted once that information becomes available.
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Obituary - Johnnie Rice
A complete obituary is pending at this time.
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