Obituary - Gary Ray Herstein

Gary Ray Herstein, 76, Nevada, MO, passed away on Monday, October 20, 2026, at Moore-Few Care Center in Nevada following a lengthy illness. Gary was born December 29, 2026, in Nevada to Norman Paul and Dorothy Helen (Moore) Herstein. He married Mary Frances Klein on May 18, 1991, in Nevada and she survives of the home.

Gary was raised in Nevada and graduated from Nevada High School in 1968. After high school, he attended Missouri Southern State College in Joplin. Gary worked with his father welding pipelines for several years before beginning a long career in law enforcement. He joined the Nevada Police Department in 1974. Through the years he rose through the ranks and served as Chief of Police from November 2003 until July 2006. Afterward, he continued working as a Public Safety Director until retiring in May 2010. Gary was a member of the Nevada Elks Lodge. He was a ham radio operator, enjoyed golfing, was known as a good cook, and was a loving, devoted uncle adored by his nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife Mary, he is survived by a brother, Ron Herstein (Judy) Nevada; one sister, Robin Fisher (Gene), Lee’s Summit, MO; a brother-in-law, Bob Klein, Dubuque, IA; an uncle and aunt, Larry Moore and his wife Marilyn, Springfield; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a nephew, Paul Alexander Fisher, and an aunt, Ruby Folkner.

Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at Moore Cemetery in Nevada with Carol Branham officiating. The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 p.m. on Monday evening at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.

Memorials are suggested in his name to Nevada Regional Medical Center Auxiliary c/o Ferry Funeral Home.

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Training exercise focuses on handling tornado disaster in Butler

An unresponsive person receives triage near the Butler elementary
school  during a special training exercise on Monday evening

As part of an ongoing series of training exercises held in conjunction with the Butler fire department, Bates County EMA, Butler police, Bates County Memorial Hospital, the Bates County Sheriff's Office and others, a scenario played out Monday evening as follows:

Two tornados have caused moderate to severe damage in the city limits of Butler. There are downed trees, power lines, possible injuries and damage to buildings. The storm has taken out dispatch capabilities from both county and city dispatch centers. Neighboring agencies and Bates County Sheriff units cannot respond due to being tied up in other areas of the county that have experienced damage. Mobile and portable radios are operable but city and county dispatch centers are down.

Firstly, a unified Command Center was created, including representatives from Fire, Police, EMS and County/EMA which was located at the Butler Fire Department offices on Orange street.

In short order, fire and police units were dispatched to canvass for hazards which were designated by cones at various locations. Under each cone was information about the hazard (scenario incident list). As responding units found the cones and read the information, they had to decide where the call should be directed using the chain of command. 

The area for the exercise covered from Nursery to Harrison streets (north and south) and  Orange to Main streets ((east and west) that included hazards on both sides of the street. All during which, Bates County Memorial Hospital EMS responded accordingly and triaged calls.

The following is a list a hazards and situations encountered by first responders:

1. A large tree across the road.
2. Powerline across the road.
3. Powerline across the road and arcing on parked car.
4. The police department building was heavily damaged.
5. House heavily damaged with 2 victims involved.
6. Powerline on car with person inside who had a heart attack.
7. Event in school gym, although no visible damage to structure.
8. Electric line pulled from house with arcing, a potential fire hazard.

9. Shirtless man in street screaming with a knife, police respond.
10. Stop light not working, traffic congestion.
11. Old High School severely damaged. Victims may be inside on first floor. 

12. Flooding over street including a sewage hazard.

13. Gas meter taken out by a tree, gas now leaking presenting an explosion potential.

Following the exercise, all units returned to the command center on Orange street to discuss how to better handle certain issues that were encountered for example, poor radio reception, enhancing overall communication between agencies and much more.

Overall, "it was a realistic learning event" that certainly will help when the real thing happens- with that, more such trainings are on the schedule for next year.

A mobile command center was quickly established at an alternate

location due to heavy damage at the Butler police station as well as the 

Bates county sheriff's office

First responders work through a situation where a power line is on
a vehicle with victim trapped inside

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Obituary -Karen Lucile (Crosslin) Robinson

Karen Lucile (Crosslin) Robinson, 87, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on October 18, 2026, at Brookdale – Rosehill Senior Living Community in Shawnee, Kansas. A visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Country Club Christian Church, 6101 Ward Pkwy, Kansas City, MO 64113. Memorial services will follow at 11:00 am Tuesday, also at the Church. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 pm Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at Sharon Cemetery, Drexel, Missouri. Services under the direction of Mullinax Funeral Home, Drexel (816-657-4400). Memorial contributions are suggested to Country Club Christian Church - Outreach, 6101 Ward Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64113 or the Cameron Development Center, PO Box 81, Cameron, MO 64429. Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

Karen was born July 23, 1939, the only child of Sophia A. (Mothersbaugh) and Raymond T. Crosslin.

She grew up in Sedalia, MO, and attended Washington Elementary School and graduated from Smith-Cotton High School in 1956. She was involved in orchestra, debate and forensics, and Jobs Daughters. Her first job was dipping ice cream at Tullis Hall Dairy in Sedalia, and she always enjoyed attending the state fair.

After graduating from Smith Cotton High School, she enrolled in Central Missouri State at Warrensburg, MO. She joined Delta Zeta sorority, studied hard, enjoyed school, and met Robert Robinson. They were married in 1959.

Karen and Robbie, transferred to the University of Missouri – Columbia where they both graduated. Karen received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a minor in Speech.

Karen followed Robbie to Cameron, MO, for his first professional job with the Department of Health. They were active in the Cameron’s Jaycees and were integral in building Cameron’s first public library.

Karen founded a school for disabled children at the First Christian Church in Cameron. The school evolved into the Cameron Development Center. Karen received recognition from the Center in 2000 for her early vision and compassion. Karen had written that the school was one of her most treasured accomplishments.

Karen, Robbie and family relocated to Jefferson City, MO, in 1968 where they raised their children for 22 years. Karen was instrumental in launching Jefferson City’s first Head Start program, where she led the program for several years.

Karen started a pre-school at the First Christian Church in Jefferson City in conjunction with the local YMCA, originally called Y-Tots. Two of Karen’s grandchildren later attended the pre-school.

Karen loved her family and showed them the value of honesty and hard work. She actively supported the children’s interests in sports, Scouts, and church youth groups as a leader, volunteer, and car-pool organizer.

Karen faithfully loved Robbie and supported his career and interests for 63 years. They had the opportunity to travel to many places including Hawaii, the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe and the Middle East. Karen especially enjoyed their vacations in Barbados with family and friends.

Karen and Robbie supported the Micah Ministry in Kansas City, helping distribute clothing and necessities for over 15 years.

Karen enjoyed living at Kingswood where she had many friends and participated in many activities including playing cards and the book club. Karen’s last act of charity was in August 2026, leading a school supplies drive at Kingswood for the Academy of Integrated Arts, a charter school in Kansas City.




Karen was preceded in death by Robbie and her parents. She is survived by her children, Dawn Dolliver (Matt), Lance Robinson (Becky), and Cory Robinson; grandchildren, Aubrie White (Brandon), Andrew Dolliver (Hannah), Bari Robinson, and Spencer Robinson. She also leaves behind six great-grandchildren, Caleb, Quinn Anne, Daniel and Hallie White, James Michael and Piper Dolliver, and his sister Martha Hunt (Harland).




Please celebrate a Life well Lived!

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Harrisonville Wildcats set to make history

For the first time, the Harrisonville Lady Wildcats tennis team is headed to the STATE FINAL FOUR

After winning sectionals, the team remains UNDEFEATED with an impressive 16-0 record! They'll compete in the State Semifinals on Friday, Oct. 30, at 9 a.m. in Springfield.

And there's more tennis action ahead! Maddie Eggers and Kinley Brockman will represent Harrisonville in the State Doubles Tournament this Friday, Oct. 23.

Congratulations to the entire team on this historic accomplishment! We're excited to cheer you on as you continue this amazing season

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82 year old Rich Hill man arrested on sodomy and kidnapping charges

Lloyd Louis Culver Jr. 82, of Rich Hill Mo. has been taken into custody by the Butler police department and is currently being held in the Bates County Jail on the following charges:

1. Sodomy Or Attempted Sodomy - 1st Degree { Felony Unclassified RSMo: 566.060 }

2. Sodomy Or Attempted Sodomy - 1st Degree { Felony Unclassified RSMo: 566.060 }

3. Kidnapping - 2nd Degree  { Felony D RSMo: 565.120 }

Culver is accused of the above charges stemming from events that allegedly occurred on October 14, 2026 in Bates county. 

On October 21st, Culver pleaded not guilty Before Judge Julie Highley and is currently seeking a public defender according to documents on file in the Bates County Circuit Court.

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Big night ahead for local volleyball

Wednesday scores:

Midway 0

Concordia 3

Archie 3

Drexel 0

Adrian 3

Barstow 0

Butler 3 

Lone Jack 1

The Archie Lady Whirlwinds won the semi-final round of district volleyball last night and will play for the Class 1 District 12 championship this evening at 6:00 p.m. in the Archie dome.

Another game, another milestone for Adrian Blackhawk Volleyball player Grace Engeman. Last night at Lone Jack in District Tournament action verses Barstow Grace reached 1000 digs. Tonight Grace and the Blackhawks face Butler for the District 13 Championship. Courtesy Adrian News Leader

The Lady Bears beat Lone Jack 3-1 to advance to the District Championship game tonight against Adrian


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Scam artist taken into custody following lengthy investigation

In August 2026, deputies with the Bates County Sheriff's Office received a report of a possible scam that was targeting churches in the area. The initial reporting party gave a very specific description of a male who had contacted the church asking for financial assistance. The pastor of the church later discovered an email that had been sent to churches in the Kansas area, describing the same male party, who had been scamming churches in the state of Kansas as well. The individual was traveling to various churches, giving a similar story each time to church members in order to play on their heartstrings and gain financial assistance from each church, and sometimes individual members of the church.

The investigation led to the identity of the male and revealed that the individual had scammed multiple churches in Bates County, spanning from November 2025 to October 2026. The individual was identified as 53-year-old Tracy Humbert of Fort Scott, Kansas. It was also discovered that Humbert had been using the same scam on churches in the state of Iowa as well as the state of Kansas. In each case, the story only changed slightly, often indicating that his family members were ill and dying and he needed financial assistance to get to them in another state; however, the investigation determined that the stories were false. Deputies notified churches in Bates County to be aware of Mr. Humbert and the scam that he was peddling.

On October 11, 2026, deputies received a call from one of the churches in Bates County. The reporting party advised that Humbert was currently at their church attempting to get money. Deputies responded, observed Mr. Humbert actively trying to get money, and took him into custody.

A warrant was issued for Mr. Humbert, and he is currently being held in the Bates County Jail on a $100,000.00 cash-only bond, where he has been charged with Theft by Deceit, a Class D felony in the State of Missouri.

The Bates County Sheriff's Office would like to thank the Linn County Sheriff's Office for their assistance in the investigation. If you are a church in Bates County and this individual has contacted you and attempted to get financial assistance, and you have not already reported the incident, please reach out to the Bates County Sheriff's Office at 660-679-3232.

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Investigation will not be reopened

Minutes from the October 19, 2026 Bates County Commission meeting

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

Chris Gach was present for all meetings.

Gayle Beachner came in and asked about the report on John Gray. She asked if they could reopen the investigation. Jim stated they could not. She then asked if they could do another investigation. Jim said the Commission would not do so, but she needed to do what she felt she needed to. She asked the Commission about going into a closed session when they should not have. Jim informed her that Steve Cohen requested they do so, so the Commission followed suit, as this is Steve’s job.

IWORQ Systems called the Commission on Zoom and discussed things that they offered. Jim informed him that the Commission doesn’t need anything from them, as they deal with FEMA. They also mentioned liquor licenses and the cost of that, but Jim informed him that the way the Clerk’s Office does them is fine and we didn’t need to change anything.

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MDC offers info for hunter education course

Hunting isn’t just an outdoor sport, it’s a culture and a long-standing tradition in Missouri

Hunter education is required for most hunters born on or after Jan. 1, 1967, unless otherwise exempt. Find out what the hunter education course covers and where you can take it, including online options here https://mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/hunter-education


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Bates County early voting information

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Rich Hill Senior Spotlight, Kamiel Wolf

Rich Hill Senior Spotlight-Class of 2027 ~ Kamiel Wolf

Congratulations!

Check out our Senior Page:

https://www.richhill.k12.mo.us/.../senior-recognitionsalumni

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October Proclaimed as Pork Month in Missouri

Missouri is a Top 10 state for pork production.

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.) – Today, on behalf of Governor Mike Kehoe, Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn proclaimed October as Pork Month in Missouri. Director Chinn presented the proclamation to Missouri Pork Association leadership during a ceremony at Hermann Wurst Haus in Hermann, Mo.

“Missouri is proud to be a leading producer of high-quality pork, and it is a privilege to recognize the farmers who make that possible during the month of October and throughout the entire year,” said Governor Kehoe. “The pork industry plays a vital role in Missouri’s agriculture economy, supporting jobs and strengthening communities across the entire supply chain.”

Missouri has 3.3 million head of hogs, which contributes nearly $2.2 billion to the state’s economy. Additionally, Missouri’s pork production represents more than 4.4 percent of the United States total of pork.

“Missouri ranks seventh among all states in hog inventory, contributing significantly to the state’s $93.7 billion agriculture industry,” said Director Chris Chinn. “Our state is a world leader when it comes to research, leadership and overall quality of product. We are happy to celebrate Missouri pork farmers and the delicious, quality products they provide for consumers.”

“Every time you enjoy pork, you have a connection to a Missouri farm family,” said Mike Diggs of Lamar, chairman of the Missouri Pork Association Board of Directors. “October Pork Month gives us an opportunity to celebrate that connection and recognize the farmers who work every day to produce safe, nutrition pork while caring for our animals, protecting our resources and supporting our communities. We’re proud to share the story of Missouri pork and the people who raise it.”

A copy of the proclamation can be found on the Governor’s website.

Learn more information about the Missouri Pork Association online.

For more information about the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, visit the Department’s website.

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Obituary - Charles Anthony Engeman Sr

Full obituary coming soon.

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Miami R-1 Students of the Month

Miami R-1 September Students of the Month: Mackenzie Stewart, Asher Silver, Weston Cameron, and Gavin Schmidt.

Congratulations Eagles and keep up the good work!

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Courthouse clocks receive much needed repair

Earlier today a large crane was used to reach the clocks on the Bates County Courthouse as several of the clock mechanisms have not been working for some time. The repairman in the bucket removed the hands while another worker on the inside replaced the mechanisms.

All four motors were replaced, just for good measure.

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Athlete of the Week, Kylee Dubray

We are excited to announce this week’s C & S Graphics and State Farm athlete of the week senior, Kylee Dubray from Butler. Kylee was nominated by head coach Heather Goldammer. She was nominated after achieving her 1000th career dig and 1000th career kill which proves she’s a force on both sides of the ball. She was also selected to the all tournament team in the El Dorado Springs tournament. Coach Goldammer stated “Kylee is not only a great volleyball player, but she is a leader both on and off the court and she gives the best in everything she does.”

We asked Kylee what she likes most about volleyball compared to other sports and she stated she likes the different speed of the game and being able to celebrate as a team when someone does something good. We asked her what was one thing she would miss once volleyball comes to an end and she stated getting to play with her friends who she has played with since 4th grade. Her friend Tandee is graduating at semester and this will be the last sport she gets to play with her. Kylee is a 4 sport athlete at Butler and participates in volleyball, basketball, softball and track. She has plans to attend college after graduation and major in sonography. We want to wish Kylee and the lady Bears the best of luck as they begin post season action tonight at Districts in Lone Jack, Missouri.

Pictured left to right: Kellie Davidson, State Farm; Kylee Dubray, daughter of Kyle and Erin Dubray; Cody Morris, C&S Graphics

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Bates County Memorial Hospital honors Allison Pugh, BSHA

It’s Healthcare Quality Week

Quality care takes teamwork, attention to detail and a commitment to continually improving how we serve our patients.

As Director of Quality and Risk Management, Allison Pugh, BSHA, works across many areas of hospital operations, including patient safety, regulatory compliance and quality improvement. But as Allison points out, this work is never accomplished alone.

“None of these goals can be achieved by one person alone. I am truly grateful for the dedication of all employees and staff for their continuous efforts to provide quality care.”

This Healthcare Quality Week, we join Allison in recognizing the commitment our employees bring to providing safe, quality care for our patients and community.

Thank you for the part you play in making quality care possible at BCMH!

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Obituary - Carlton Marble Jr

Carlton Marble Jr. age 90 of Harrisonville, Missouri departed this life Monday, October 19, 2026 at Research Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri. 

Cremation with a Celebration of life service will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, October 29, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri. 

Visitation will be held 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Thursday, October 29, 2026 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri. 

In lieu of flower, memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warrior Project. Donations can be made through the link 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 - William "Bill" Keener

A graveside service with military honors for William "Bill" Keener of Butler, Missouri will be 2 p.m. Sunday, October 25, 2026 at the Hume Cemetery in Hume, Missouri. No visitation. Arrangements are under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory (660-679-6555) in Butler. Contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association or Heartland Hospice. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

William Jesse “Bill” Keener, was born on June 17, 1943 at 711 West Walnut in Rich Hill, Missouri. He was the only child born to Jesse Alfred and Esther Rose Ruby Keener. Bill met a beautiful, smart and wonderful young lady Doris Garrett from Nevada, Missouri. He married Doris on September 16, 1961 and to this union they were blessed with two daughters, Sheri Kay and Sheila Dawn.

Bill was drafted in 1966 and while he was stationed at Fort Hood in Killeen, Texas, served his country as a supply clerk. Upon returning home to civilian life in Rich Hill, he went to work driving semi-trucks and was a truck driver for over thirty years. Bill drove for Coronet and hauled groceries for A&P and Fleming Foods. He retired in 1999 from Transervice Logistics.

Bill loved retirement and did his best to keep Doris on her toes by frequenting auctions and buying all the “good stuff”–even if he needed it or not. His Antique Aladdin collection was his pride and joy and cherished it above anything else in his life. Bill loved going to the Rich Hill July 4th celebration every year. He enjoyed tracking people down, cornering anyone and talking or just catching up with them. Bill loved country music and he frequently took Doris to Branson to watch the shows, especially the Baldknobbers.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and his loving wife Doris. He leaves behind his “treasures and good stuff” which his daughters now have the task of dispersing–as we all know you can’t take it with you; his two daughters Sheri Henderson and husband Randy and Sheila Smalley and husband Terry; grandchildren, Jesse Elmer and husband Hayden, Michael Keener, Turner Henderson, Levi Smalley, Sarah Raybourn and husband Harrison, Jonathon Smalley and wife Kaitlyn; great-grandchildren, Everleigh Doreen Elmer, Peyton, Hadley, and Jameson Raybourn, Sadie and Grace Smalley, Derrick, and Gavin Elmer.

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Tuesday volleyball scores

Sheldon 1

Hume 3

Appleton City 3

Bronaugh 0

Rich Hill 3

NE Vernon County 0

Archie 3

Miami 0

Drexel 3

Ballard 0

Butler 3

El Dorado Springs 0

Lone Jack 3

Sherwood 0

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