Please avoid the area if at all possible. More details coming as soon as they become available.
#MidAmericaLive
#MidAmericaLive
Saturday, August 1, 2026
3 vehicle accident just east of Amsterdam
Obituary - Gary John Freeland
Gary John Freeland, age 76, passed away on July 3, 2026. Gary was born Feb 18, 1950, to Harry and Cathern (Porter) Freeland in Kansas City. The family lived in what they fondly refer to as "The Bottoms," a farm belonging to his grandmother near Greenwood. MO. Gary graduated from Ray-Pec school and went on to get a degree in history.
Gary loved hunting, visits with neighbors and friends, and loved running the Freeland Brother's Gun Shop in Pleasant Hill. He moved from Pleasant Hill to Quincy, MO, and ran the gun shop in Warsaw until his death.
Gary is proceeded in death by his parents, one brother-in-law, JC Tauch, and one sister-in-law, Lois Freeland.
He is survived by his sister, Cathern Ann Tauch, three brothers, Harry Freeland, Richard (Shari) Freeland, and Russell (Linda) Freeland, five nieces and nephews, Leslie Tauch, Lisa Freeland, Brandye (Chris) Riggert, Jeffery (Terri) Freeland, and Tyson Freeland, two great nieces, Lauren Freeland and Kristen Freeland.
Gary was an asset to his family and a great brother! May he rest in eternal peace with God.
#MidAmericaLive
Obituary - Norma Lee Pease
Norma Lee Pease, age 93, Linn Valley, Kansas passed away Wednesday, July 29, 2026. She was born on July 28, 1933 in Miami County, Kansas, the daughter of Paul Weisner Keith and Lottie May Hutton Keith. She graduated from La Cygne Rural High School in the Class of 1951. Norma was united in marriage to Harold Dean Pease on September 10, 1954. He preceded her in death on September 21, 2017. She was also preceded in death by a son, Rodney Dean Pease, and a sister Dorothy Nelson. She was a member of and very involved with the Calvary Baptist Church in La Cygne. Norma is survived by three children, daughter Janet Lynn Bardin and her husband Randall, sons Randall Jay Pease, and Jeffrey Scott Pease, along with eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held 11 am Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the Calvary Baptist Church. Burial will be in the Oak Lawn Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 pm Friday August 7 at the Schneider Funeral Home La Cygne Chapel. Memorial contributions are suggested to Calvary Baptist Church. Online condolences can be left at http://www.schneiderfuneals.com.
#MidAmericaLive
Friday, July 31, 2026
An Open Letter to the Citizens of Rich Hill and the Surrounding Communities
My name is Dustin Miller. As many of you know, I served as Fire Chief for the City of Rich Hill until the appointment of a new Fire Chief by the City Council on the evening of July 29, 2026.
By now, many of you have likely read or heard various accounts of the events over the past several days that resulted in the appointment of a new Fire Chief. While there has been no shortage of opinions and speculation, I would like the opportunity to share my perspective and explain why these events matter—not just to me, but to the future of our department and the community we serve.
Some of you may wonder why I am going to place such a strong emphasis on experience and leadership within the fire service. The answer is simple: experience matters because lives depend on it.
This is not a theoretical concern for me.
During my career, I have experienced the heartbreaking reality of responding to a line-of-duty death involving a fellow firefighter—a coworker and a friend. That experience forever changed my perspective on leadership, responsibility, and the weight that comes with every decision made on the fireground.
Because of that experience, leadership is deeply personal to me. Every firefighter who responds to an emergency is someone's spouse, parent, son, daughter, brother, or sister. Their families trust that the person leading them has the knowledge, experience, and judgment necessary to bring them home safely. That trust is something I have never taken lightly, and it is why I have always believed that experience and leadership must remain at the forefront when selecting those entrusted to lead a fire department.
Experience is one of the most valuable assets a Fire Chief can possess because lives depend on it. It develops sound judgment, strengthens decision-making under pressure, and transforms training into practical wisdom gained through real-world emergencies. Every incident is different, and there is no substitute for experience when making critical decisions that affect the safety of firefighters and the public.
The position of Fire Chief requires far more than a title. It demands proven leadership, operational expertise, administrative competence, and an unwavering commitment to those entrusted to the department's care. Without experienced leadership, the risks to firefighters and the community increase significantly.
Throughout my time as Fire Chief, I intentionally planned for the department's future so that, when I stepped aside, it would be led by someone fully prepared for the responsibility. I believed that recommending a successor carried an obligation to ensure that individual possessed the experience, judgment, and leadership necessary to protect both our firefighters and our community.
I do understand why many members of the Rich Hill Fire Department are upset. They have every right to feel that way. They raised legitimate safety concerns, and they feel those concerns were not heard or adequately addressed.
Below is my personal account of the events that led to the situation and uncertainty many of you have read about.
But before explaining the direct events that led to my departure as Fire Chief, I believe it is important to provide a brief overview of the background and circumstances that brought us to this point.
I have proudly been associated with the Rich Hill Fire Department for the past 25 years, serving much of that time as Fire Chief. In addition to my volunteer service, I have spent the last 19 years serving as a career Firefighter/Paramedic with a busy Kansas City metropolitan-area fire department.
A few years ago, I moved outside the city limits of Rich Hill. At that time, there was no one interested in assuming the responsibilities of Fire Chief. I did not believe it would have been responsible to simply hand the position to someone without the administrative and operational experience necessary to successfully lead a fire department.
For that reason, I approached the City Council and offered to remain in the position of Fire Chief for one to two years without compensation. The purpose of that agreement was to provide the department with stability while allowing time to identify, mentor, and prepare a qualified successor.
As part of that arrangement, I appointed an Operations Chief to oversee many of the department's day-to-day operational decisions. Because that individual would be significantly more involved in the daily activities of the department, I recommended that the monthly salary associated with the Fire Chief position be paid to the Operations Chief.
Over the past two years, I had 2-3 brief conversations with the mayor regarding potential candidates to eventually assume the role of Fire Chief. Unfortunately, while there were individuals whom I believed possessed the potential to become successful chiefs with continued mentorship and oversight, none expressed an interest in accepting the full responsibilities of the position.
About 10 months ago or so, we recruited an individual with 30 years of experience as a career firefighter and paramedic. I appointed this individual as Training Chief with the intention of strengthening and rebuilding our training program. My long-term plan was to allow sufficient time for the training program to become established before discussing a transition into the Fire Chief position.
During one of my final conversations with the mayor regarding succession planning which took place about two months ago, I identified this individual as a promising future candidate for Fire Chief. However, I also explained that, having only been with the department for a few months, it was my opinion that additional time was needed to successfully establish the training program before taking on the additional responsibilities of leading the entire department.
On Tuesday, July 28, 2026, I received an email from the mayor regarding the future leadership of the department which read:
"A couple of years ago I advised that I was willing to remain the Fire Chief with no pay for a year or two since I no longer lived in town. The Board of Aldermen and I appreciate the excellent service you have given this department and hope that you are willing to continue with the department in some capacity.
I am writing to let you know that the Board of Aldermen and I think it is time for us to have a Fire Chief who lives in town. A member of your department (John Simon) has agreed to take on that responsibility. Would you be willing to work with him for a couple of months to bring him up to date on all the reporting and other responsibilities? We are having a Special Meeting on Wednesday night and would like to make this appointment then. If you have any questions or concerns let me know."
When I read this email, my initial reaction was one of surprise. While the message expressed appreciation for my years of service, I could not help but question why my input was not sought regarding the selection of the individual who would succeed me after leading the department for so many years.
To be clear, I was not upset that the Board wished to appoint a new Fire Chief. I had previously agreed to remain in the position without compensation for only a year or two, and that timeframe had been reached. I understood that every chapter eventually comes to an end, and I remain proud of what our department accomplished during my tenure as Fire Chief.
My concerns centered on the process rather than the decision itself. I questioned why there had been no discussion with me regarding the succession plan, particularly when we had several members with substantial fire service experience, leadership ability, and administrative knowledge. I also struggled to understand why an appointment appeared to have been made without consultation and without the knowledge of the department's membership. It was the manner in which the process unfolded that concerned me most.
Rather than responding emotionally my initial email to the mayor was immediate and a very short response “Sounds good, thanks for letting me know”. I took the remainder of Tuesday and part of Wednesday to carefully consider my professional response and concerns back to the mayor. On Wednesday, July 29, I sent the mayor an email outlining my concerns. My goal was not to oppose the appointment of a new Fire Chief, but to express my concerns about the
succession process and advocate for what I believed was in the best interest of the department and the community we serve.
My response to the mayor was respectful and focused on my concerns. I wanted to ensure my thoughts were clearly communicated before the Special Meeting which took place Wednesday evening, so at approximately noon to 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, I sent the following email:
“Good day, I am writing to follow up regarding the email I received yesterday. First and foremost, I want to state that I am prepared to turn over the Fire Chief position to whomever the Council ultimately appoints. Over the past several years, I have repeatedly expressed my willingness to discuss transitioning the role to another individual. However, I never received any clear indication that anyone had a direct interest in assuming the position.
That said, I also feel it is important to be candid about my concerns. After serving this department for 25 years— most of that time as Fire Chief—I believe the manner in which this process has unfolded has been inappropriate and lacking transparency. It appears that discussions regarding a new appointment have been taking place behind closed doors for several months. From my perspective, it gives the impression that personal agendas may have influenced the process rather than an open and transparent evaluation.
Despite those concerns, I will fully respect and support whatever decision the Council ultimately makes.
I believe John will perform well in certain aspects of the position, particularly on the administrative side. However, I do not believe the overall experience and advanced training that are developed only through many years of service are present to the same extent as they are in other qualified candidates. In my opinion, those qualities are among the most important responsibilities of a Fire Chief because they directly impact operational decision-making and, ultimately, ensuring that everyone goes home safely after every emergency response.
After considerable reflection, I have come to the conclusion that my 25 years of experience with this department and my knowledge of the fire service will not play a meaningful role in the Council's decision. At no point was I asked for my professional assessment or perspective regarding potential candidates or their qualifications. Given that, I believe it is in my best interest to resign my position and step away from this process.
To assist with a smooth transition, the only outstanding issue that I believe requires immediate attention is the repair of the station roof, which both you and Alec are already aware of. I have already provided Alec with all of the information and responsibilities that I handled exclusively so they can be managed until the newly appointed Fire Chief assumes the role. Additionally, I have removed my access to the station door through the access control system. The only City-issued equipment currently in my possession is my portable radio, and I will coordinate with Alec to return it.
I sincerely wish the department continued success in the future. Should any questions arise, I will remain available by phone to assist department personnel as needed. But, I am confident Alec will be able to provide guidance during the transition.
If needed, I am providing the password for this email account so that access can be obtained and the password changed.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve this department and this community over the past 25 years. It has been an honor and a privilege, and I appreciate your time and attention to this matter.
Respectfully, Dustin Miller”
It is important to note that I did not receive a response to my email from the Mayor prior to the Special Meeting. As a result, there was no opportunity for further discussion, clarification, or collaboration regarding the concerns I had raised before the appointment was made.
After sending my email to the mayor, I felt it was equally important to communicate directly with the members of the Rich Hill Fire Department. I have always believed that open and honest communication is one of the most important responsibilities of any leader. For that reason, I sent the following message to our department group text:
“All, I want to express my gratitude to each of you for your service to the department and to the citizens of Rich Hill.
You may be wondering why this message is going out now. The City has indicated interest in having a Chief who resides inside the city limits. Personally, I don't blame them—I initially agreed to serve in my current role for only a couple of years while living outside the city.
Although I may not have always been personally present at the department, I want you to know I remained active behind the scenes. Over the last several years, I've had the opportunity to watch many of you grow—not only as firefighters, but as people. I've also had the privilege of seeing some of you advance into careers as firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and police officers.
I have truly enjoyed my 25 years of service with the Rich Hill Fire Department. The relationships I've built and the friendships I've made are something I will always cherish.
I want each of you to know that I fully support the appointment of a new Chief. However, I have decided to step down from my position. If you're wondering why, it is because of the process the Council chose to follow during this transition.
With that being said, I genuinely wish the department the very best going forward. I have spent more than half my life as a member of this department, and I remain proud of the work you do and the commitment you bring every day.
I hope each of you continues to grow, improve, and serve the community that depends on you.
Thank you again for everything. It has been an amazing 25 years. And please remember—I am only a phone call or text away if anyone needs anything.”
Following that message, several members of the Rich Hill Fire Department attended the Special Meeting on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, to voice their concerns regarding the future leadership of the department and the process used to appoint a new Fire Chief.
During the meeting, members respectfully expressed concerns about the lack of input from current department officers, the importance of operational and administrative experience, and the need for a structured succession process. Representatives from neighboring fire departments also shared concerns regarding the transition and the importance of maintaining strong, experienced leadership.
After hearing from department members and those in attendance, the City Council entered closed session and later announced plans to interview five candidates interested in serving as Fire Chief. Following those interviews, the Council voted to appoint John Simon, who has three years of service with the Rich Hill Fire Department, as the next Fire Chief.
The concerns raised by department members were not about resisting change, but rather about the qualifications, experience, and process involved in selecting the person responsible for leading the department and protecting both firefighters and the community.
Following the meeting, each member was left to make their own personal decision regarding their future with the department. Unfortunately, several members chose to resign, believing their concerns about experience and safety had not been adequately considered during the process.
In closing this letter, and this chapter of my life, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the past members of the Board of Aldermen for the support they provided throughout the years. While we did not always agree on every issue, I have always appreciated their commitment to the City of Rich Hill and their support of the Rich Hill Fire Department.
I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the citizens of Rich Hill and the surrounding communities. Your unwavering support over the past 25 years has meant more than words can adequately express. Whether it was through your encouragement, donations, attendance at fundraisers, or simply placing your trust in us during your time of need, you played a vital role in the success of our department.
Building and maintaining a successful volunteer fire department is never the work of one individual. It requires dedicated firefighters, supportive city leadership, neighboring departments willing to lend a hand, and a community that believes in and stands behind its volunteers. I have been fortunate to experience that support throughout my career, and for that I will always be grateful.
Although my time as Fire Chief has come to an end, my love for the fire service, the members of the Rich Hill Fire Department, and this community will never change. It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve as your Fire Chief, and I will forever be proud of what we accomplished together.
Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving this community for the past 25 years. I leave with countless memories, lifelong friendships, and the satisfaction of knowing I gave this department and this community everything I had.
Respectfully,
Dustin Miller
#MidAmericaLive
Show Us Bates County Photo Contest
Celebrating the Beauty of Bates County Through Photography
Bates County Memorial Hospital invites community members of all ages to help celebrate the beauty of Bates County through photography.
The Show Us Bates County Community Photo Contest will accept photo submissions from August 1 through August 31, 2026. Whether you're a student using a smartphone or a hobby photographer with a DSLR, we invite you to share your view of Bates County. Show us the landscapes, nature, and unique places that make our community special.
More than a photo contest, this project is an opportunity to celebrate the place we call home. Award-winning and selected photographs may become part of a lasting community collection displayed throughout Bates County Memorial Hospital and its clinics, helping create a welcoming environment for patients, visitors, and staff while showcasing the beauty of Bates County.
The contest is open to photographers of all ages and experience levels, and students are especially encouraged to participate. Whether you photograph with a smartphone, mirrorless camera, or DSLR, we welcome every perspective and every experience level.
Winning photographs will be announced following judging in early September. Finalists will also be displayed during the BCMH Health Fair on October 6, where community members can vote for a People's Choice Award. Selected photographs will later become part of the hospital's growing community collection as display spaces are prepared.
Every photograph tells part of our community's story. We look forward to seeing Bates County through your eyes. Share your view of the place we call home and help create a lasting community collection that will welcome patients, visitors, and staff for years to come.
Explore complete details and submission guidelines on the online submission form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5QVTKFR or scan the code to access the form.
Stay connected to what’s happening at BCMH! Visit https://bcmhospital.com/news/ or follow on Facebook.
#MidAmericaLive
Local students named to dean’s list at Washington University
Amoret, Missouri - Alisa Oates, who is enrolled in the university's College of Arts & Sciences.
Harrisonville, Missouri - Hailey Bagby, who is enrolled in the university's College of Arts & Sciences.
Harrisonville, Missouri - Hailey Bagby, who is enrolled in the university's College of Arts & Sciences.
Dean's List Qualifications - College of Arts & Sciences: students must earn a semester grade point average of 3.6 or above and be enrolled in at least 14 graded units.
Congratulations!
#MidAmericaLive
Linn County moratorium puts brakes on Swan Solar project near Amsterdam
Back in May of this year, the Linn County Commission approved a temporary moratorium on the 2-mile, 345 kilovolt transmission line needed to connect the solar farm to the grid near the La Cygne power plant. That moratorium prompted a lawsuit by Clearway Solar on behalf of the 4,000 acre Swan Energy Center project just south of Amsterdam, MO as construction to begin earlier in July.
According to the Linn County Journal newspaper, prior to filing the lawsuit, Clearway offered the county $850,000 to drop the temporary moratorium saying it is "discriminatory and that standard regulations do not require a local permit for the power lines."
Even while a permit to install the power lines in Linn County was not required, Clearway did apply for one, which was denied by the county.
As rumors persist that the county has rejected the $850k offer, Mid America Live spoke with the Linn County Clerk on Friday, who stated that during litigation not much can be revealed however said "no offer from Clearway has been accepted".
Mid America Live is currently reaching out to Clearway spokesperson Barry Matchett for comment and will provide an update in coming days.
Read more from the Linn County Journal here https://www.linncountyjournal.com/post/solar-company-offers-county-850k-to-drop-moratorium-on-overhead-power-lines
#MidAmericaLive
Weekly report from the Henry County Sheriff's Office
𝐇𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐟'𝐬 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞
𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐀𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬: 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟐𝟒, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔, 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟑𝟎, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔
Sheriff Aaron N. Brown reports the following arrests and incidents for the week:
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• 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟐𝟔, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 – 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐮𝐥𝐭 𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞, 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐮𝐥𝐭 𝟐𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞, 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐟𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐀𝐛𝐮𝐬𝐞:
Deputy Murphy and Deputy Douglas responded to a physical disturbance in the rural Montrose area. The investigation resulted in the arrest of Jerry Martin, age 45, of Deepwater, for Assault – 1st Degree. Johnathan Seedyk, age 25, of Deepwater, was also arrested for Assault – 2nd Degree, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, and Child Abuse. Both Martin and Seedyk were placed on 24-hour investigative holds. Seedyk allegedly pushed one juvenile and choked two additional juveniles during an altercation over gasoline. Martin allegedly struck a subject with the handle of a splitting maul.
• 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟐𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 – 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭:
Jacob Madson, age 36, of Lincoln, was arrested at the Henry County Jail on a Henry County felony warrant for Resisting Arrest, as well as a Clinton Police Department warrant for shoplifting.
• 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟐𝟖, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 – 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭:
Kyron Wilson, age 19, of Clinton, was arrested at the Henry County Jail on a Henry County felony warrant for Domestic Assault – 3rd Degree and Resisting Arrest.
• 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟐𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 – 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭:
Deputy Hysom conducted a pedestrian check in the Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Bruce Buller, age 49, of Clinton, on a Henry County misdemeanor warrant.
• 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟐𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 – 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭:
Captain Bilbruck conducted a traffic stop in the Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Edwin Rodriguez, age 32, of Kansas City, Missouri, on two Platte County warrants for a traffic-related offense and Weapons Trafficking.
• 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟐𝟗, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 – 𝐃𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐮𝐥𝐭 𝟐𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐟𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝟐𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞:
Deputies Harms, Evans, and Murphy responded to a disturbance in the rural Clinton area. The investigation resulted in the arrest of Jesse Frick, age 41, of Odessa, for Domestic Assault – 2nd Degree and Endangering the Welfare of a Child – 2nd Degree. Frick allegedly grabbed a juvenile victim by the arm and placed his arm around the juvenile's neck.
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All individuals arrested are presumed 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.
#MidAmericaLive
Obituary - Dorothy Louise Pierce
Dorothy Louise Pierce (Moorehead), born in 1941 in Pennsylvania to Andrew S. and Margaret E. Moorehead, lived a life marked by education, service, family, and community involvement.
A dedicated lifelong learner, she graduated from Palisade High School in Palisade, Colorado, in 1959, earned her Bachelor of Arts from Ottawa University in Ottawa, Kansas, in 1963, and later received her Master of Arts from the University of Central Missouri in 1994.
She devoted her career to elementary education, teaching in Kansas, New York, Maryland, and Missouri. She spent twenty-one years teaching at Appleton City Elementary School, where she touched the lives of many students and families.
She married Dr. Robert Phillips in 1964; the marriage later ended in divorce. In 1988, she married Joe Pierce, with whom she shared her life until his passing in 2012.
She was the beloved mother of Scott Phillips and life partner, Elizabeth Ferry of Silver Spring, Maryland, and Sarah Phillips of Appleton City, Missouri. She was also stepmother to Darryl Pierce and Sandra Greufe of Appleton City; step grandmother to Jessie Snyder, Megan Davila and her husband Jeremy of Kansas City, and Seth Greufe of Appleton City; and step-great-grandmother to Lucus, Micah and Charlotte Gifford of Clinton, Missouri and Harper, Ryle and Nora Davila of Kansas City, Missouri. She is also survived by her sisters, Marcia Finke and family of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and Mary Roberts and family of Midland, Michigan.
A faithful and active member of Appleton City Trinity United Methodist Church, she gave generously of her time and talents. She was involved with Jr. Achievers, GFWC, and the Missouri Retired Teachers Association. She also served on the Appleton City Library Board, the Appleton City Landmarks Restoration Museum Board, and as Trinity Methodist Historian.
Her life reflected a deep commitment to education, family, family, and community. She will be remembered with gratitude by those who knew and loved her.
#MidAmericaLive
Obituary - Thomas Clifton Studdard
Thomas Clifton Studdard, Jr. of Nevada, MO passed away suddenly at home on the evening of Tuesday, July 28, 2026. Known affectionately as “Tucker” to family, friends and patrons, he is survived by wife, Tanya; sisters, Liz Jennings and Dolly Patton; 4 children, Shelley, Sharon, Thomas, and Mitch; 7 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in passing by his parents; 2 brothers; and 4 sisters.
Born February 7, 1939 in Mountain Home, AR to Thomas Clifton and Mary Studdard, “Tucker” grew up hunting and fishing in the Ozark Mountains and became a fine outdoorsman, deer hunting every fall and fishing every spring on and around Norfork and Bull Shoals Lakes.
Tucker was a 3 Sport All State star athlete as a Mountain Home High School Bomber and was honored in 2019 by being inducted into their Hall of Fame as an all-time great. Graduating in 1957, Tucker was offered a full ride scholarship to the University of Arkansas but chose to sign a contract with the St. Louis Cardinals baseball organization, playing one season of AA ball.
Tucker continued to play league sports after moving to Kansas City and being hired by Hallmark Cards in 1961 where he enjoyed a successful career. He retired in 1978 and moved to western Kansas where he invested in oil drilling; made roofing materials at Tamko in Phillipsburg, KS for 18 years; was a printer for the Phillipsburg newspaper; and also owned Tucker’s Place, a popular pool hall there. Tucker moved back closer to the Ozarks in 2010 to Nevada, MO where he enjoyed retirement on the farm, watching Western shows—Gunsmoke, Lawman, and Cheyenne.
Tucker was quick to laugh, always ready to help those in need and was loved by all who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be most fondly remembered and forever missed.
Memorial services will be at 11:00a.m. on Monday, August 10, 2026, at Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada, MO. The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00a.m. prior to the service.
#MidAmericaLive
Obituary - Maritta Pearl Seaborn
Maritta Pearl Seaborn, age 86, passed away on July 28, 2026, at Nevada, Regional Medical Center.
Maritta was born February 8, 1940, in Blackwell, OK to William T. and Della N. (Long) Seaborn. She graduated from Ponca City High School in 1958 and had worked at the Nevada Missouri State Hospital.
To honor her wishes, she will be laid to rest at the Liberal City Cemetery with private services.
Courtesy Ferry Funeral Home.
#MidAmericaLive
Reduce Summertime hoof risks to cattle
Hot weather often sends cattle looking for relief in ponds and streams, but standing in wet conditions can increase the risk of foot rot. This common bacterial infection can cause lameness, reduce weight gain and milk production, increase treatment costs and impact overall herd profitability.
Producers can help reduce risk by:
• Limiting exposure to mud, manure and standing water
• Providing shade to reduce heat stress
• Offering a balanced mineral program with zinc, selenium and copper
• Monitoring hoof health and culling unsound animals when necessary
• Acting quickly if signs of lameness appear
Watch for swelling, redness and a foul odor between the claws. Early treatment is key to reducing long-term damage and performance losses. Veterinarians can help identify symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan.
Learn more about foot rot prevention and treatment: https://brnw.ch/21x4wtN
#MidAmericaLive
Thursday, July 30, 2026
Butler Area Chamber of Commerce Business of the Month: Bates County Health Center
Join us in celebrating the Butler Chamber Business of the Month: the Bates County Health Center!
Since opening its doors in April 1975, the Bates County Health Center team has been dedicated to a vital mission right here in our community: Prevent, Promote, and Protect. Whether helping a young family through WIC, providing essential immunizations, assisting with birth and death certificates, or offering affordable lab screenings, they serve our neighbors with heart, compassion, and tireless care.
Hands-On Care for Our Community Families
What makes the Health Center so special is how deeply they care about our kids and families beyond clinic walls. They work year-round to keep our community safe, equipped, and supported through fantastic local programs:
Child Passenger Safety & Car Seat Classes: Certified technicians guide expectant moms and parents through proper car seat installation—providing free convertible seats and boosters to help keep our smallest neighbors safe on every drive.
Bike Safety & Helmets: Distributing helmets through local events to keep kids active and protected. Back-to-School Support & Safe Sitter Training: Helping young students get ready for the school year and empowering youth ages 11–13 with essential babysitting, safety, and first-aid skills.
Core Services They Offer Every Day:
WIC & Family Support: Nutrition guidance, health screenings, and healthy food support for growing families.
Immunizations & Vaccines: Walk-in childhood and adult vaccinations keeping our community protected year-round.
Lab Screenings & Health Education: Accessible health monitoring and wellness guidance tailored for local groups and organizations.
Vital Records: Quick, helpful assistance securing birth and death certificates.
Visitor & Contact Information
Location: 501 N. Orange St., Butler, MO
Phone: (660) 679-6108
Website: batescountyhealthcenter.org
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
(Extended Hours: Open until 7:00 PM on the first Thursday of every month!)
Thank you to Administrator Missy Lancaster and the entire dedicated team at Bates County Health Center for over 50 years of keeping Bates County healthy, safe, and strong.
Heated exchange in Bates County Commission chambers following release of Sheriff audit
Minutes from the Bates County Commission meeting July 27, 2026
The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.
Chad Anderson, the Bates County Sheriff, came in and sat down with the Commission to discuss the Bates County Sheriff’s Audit. Chad told the Commission about the Task Force Grant that they could not apply for in time this year and said he would try again next year. He explained that the county has to maintain the SAMS website and hadn’t done that so they were not able to get that accomplished this year.
Chad then asked the Commission about the check for the Rodeo and if that was going to get approved. They informed him that the check was pulled to check minutes from last year. They found in the minutes that it had been voted on last year and now all they need to do now is write the check. He then informed them about funeral plans for one of his employees. Afterwards, two patrol cars will escort him to Ochelata, OK.
He spoke over an invoice that keeps getting kicked back dealing with Health and Wellness. He explained that they have an individual that his employees take classes from. She is a personal trainer that can do meals, body scan and set workouts and the class is done in the Bates County Sheriff's Office Gym. Any employee is welcome to join, and she also offered it to First Responders, which then made other names show up on the invoice. Chad told the Commission he doesn’t care who shows up, he just knows that his offices fee is $40.00 each session no matter how many people join. The issue is the multiple names showing up on her bill, so Chad is going to redo it and make it to where there is just a flat rate without names, so she doesn’t have to go back through her bill and take off names that aren’t employed with the Sheriff’s office. John mentioned that was what he understood of the situation, but it was brought to their attention. Chad then stated that he is not paying for everyone in the County.
Chad mentioned that he met up with Motorola, as Mark Alford's office has confirmed they are allocating money for the 911 system upgrade, and they are in high hopes that goes through with Congressional Funding. He also met with the radio consultant and could lock in prices and purchase new handheld radios for deputies. The old ones would then be donated to fire departments so they could talk on the system and have their own frequencies, but now he is second guessing this decision and has concerns since the audit. He stated he is no longer going to worry about other agencies. He also cannot lend Amsterdam their UTV’s to help with set up, but after reading the report, their job has nothing to do with Law Enforcement so he cannot loan them. He pointed out that this audit report will now be affecting more than just his agency, and the people that the Bates County Sheriff's Office would normally help because it was the right thing to do will now be affected. He then stated, with all this being said, he is immediately ceasing the 911 Addresses at the Sheriff's Office. He said for the record, “I am no longer doing someone else’s (expletive) just to be kicked in the (expletive).” He suggested the Assessor’s Office get someone trained because he will be redirecting everyone over to that office.
Surplus items will no longer be offered out to other departments. He stated he has been the Sheriff that tries to take care of everyone and that day has ended. He is taking accountability. He hopes that the whistleblowers are happy with themselves, that the people of surrounding towns will no longer get the things that could make their lives easier and for agencies that are less fortunate.
Trent asked if he would now only be able to help small town agencies, just not fire departments, and Chad said that was correct. He then stated that they will still respond to calls and assistance for help but anything they have that can be donated and would have been donated, will no longer be. He is concerned that after the audit, that could be another issue. It is surplus and there are laws that say that they must auction them off.
He mentioned that his office will be implementing 95% of the recommendations from the audit and mentioned, "If anyone talks to Greg Mullinax, I would like to have his badge and ID back. That is County property." John wondered how that even got into the audit but Chad stated he knew, but wasn't going to talk about it.
Chad then went over more of the audit and the recommendations and said they will be implementing the things that they already haven’t. He claimed that majority of the things in the audit have already been fixed. “Lesson learned” he said. He then told the Commission they should be concerned that they are trying to control the Bates County Sheriff’s Office spending and asked if the Commission had any plans for the reserve his office has built. Jim replied, telling Chad it would be up to him to decide what that money is spent on. Chad then asked Jim to say that again and said that in 2023 he received a letter from the Missouri Auditors saying there was a whistleblower complaint. He then brought up that there was a closed-door meeting with the Commissioners and the Coroner the day before he received that letter. He feels as if it’s hard for him to say that those four people aren’t involved in the complaint. He then explained that hearing Jim say that it was his money and to spend it was shocking, and Jim said he was just going off what Chad is saying, but John spoke up and said that Jim was not understanding Chad’s point.
Chad says that he is eager to work with the Commission to do things correctly but doesn’t expect a plan right now but wants to work towards one. He then stated that the only thing he really hasn’t implemented is the expenditure’s and what they are going to spend the money that Chad's Office worked so hard to build up. That money was for funds if the federal government were to ever shut down and they had to wait until the end of the year for a check. He then listed other offices within the county that has a “savings” for emergencies, but it's only an issue when Chad has one. Trent said he was all for Chad having money on hand for emergencies. John then stated he feels like Chad does a wonderful job, makes personal sacrifices, is involved in the Community, helps those in need, built up the Sheriff's office and doubled it, brought in new vehicles, gear to protect the officers and training to protect then during a mission. He sees hate and jealousy from the county and Elected Officials and feels as if the Sheriff's office is a target of that. Chad then asked John how long it has been since John asked the Auditors Office to release the Audit. John stated that he had been in touch with them multiple times and they had not followed through at all. John feels like this was a witch hunt and felt as if the auditors have told us and shown us who the whistleblowers are. John feels as if the auditors owe Chad an apology. Chad says he doesn’t expect one and thinks he will never get one, anyway. His main worry is doing what is right and fixing whatever issue is at hand.
He stated he is taking the audit seriously, even though he may joke.
Chad then mentioned that there will always be haters and pointed out that him and Jim have the same one right now.
Chad then said if the Commission is going to tell the Sheriff what he can and cannot spend then they might as well give the job to the Commission and let them deal with all the late-night calls and the things that come along with job.
John is appreciative that Chad is open and willing to change the things that need changing and assured him he was willing to work with him and does not have any intentions on taking back any money from him.
Chad then spoke to Jim specifically and asked about the rumor he was told, that Jim and the County Clerk called Ivan Schrader to ask how he could be removed based off this. He then informed Jim that even after learning that he would still never try and have Jim Wheatley removed from office and reminded him of a time when he stood up and said, “Let the voters hold people accountable.” Chad then stated that he would stand up today and say, “We are not going to spend the money to have Jim Wheatley removed, that’s up to the voters.” because that is the type of person he is. He then stated, “If I am removed from office for the good things I have done for the youth, because headlines read ‘wasteful spending’ like we were having frat parties with hookers and cocaine but in reality we are having dinners to honor men and women who put their lives on the line every day, I can go out knowing that I made a difference in my community and I will hold my head up high.” He feels as if this was fueled by a picture painted by elected officials who continue to fuel this and paint the picture. He says he is not mad at the auditor; he disagrees and knows that the voters will take care of what they want.
He also pointed out that for the 17 years that he has been Sheriff, every year his office has driven a high school student, sometimes multiple, to their prom. He explained that his children are also tax-paying Americans and just because his dad is the sheriff doesn’t mean they need to be excluded. “Will I do it again? No. Will I do it for other kids? Absolutely not.” John said he was sorry to hear that, but he understood.
He says that he wants to work together and move forward from here. He said he appreciated what the Commission does, Trent thanked Chad for what him and his employees do and John agreed and thanked Chad as well.
After the meeting with Chad, Jim asked Jami Page about the SAMS number not being renewed. Jami informed the Commission that she had renewed it in January of this year. Jami printed out the email that she had received from sam.gov and gave it to Jim, showing the SAMS number had been renewed and was active.
She then addressed Trent and John about the statement that Chad had made in his meeting with the Commission about her. Jami stated that she has never talked to Ivan Schrader about having Chad removed from Office and has never spoke to Ivan about any issues, as she has her own attorney. She stated that Jim might have contacted him, she did not. If Jim did, she was not involved in their conversation and had no knowledge of it happening. Jami then asked John if he was the one that had told Chad that because it wasn’t true and John did not think he did. John then stated that if he did then he had misspoken. (John made a revision stating "No I did not. I can honestly say I did not.")
Jim told John and Trent that he had not contacted anyone about having Chad removed. The only way an elected official can be removed is by the people voting them out of office or an investigation, charges filed and convicted.
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