BHS Sideline Cheerleaders take top honors

By Cody Morris, Tailgate TV

The Butler High School 2025–2026 Sideline Cheerleaders recently attended UCA Cheer Camp, where they demonstrated the roaring Bear spirit, skill, and dedication—earning a ‘Superior’ rating in the Spirit Showcase, which is the highest team honor possible.

In addition to the team’s success, three Bears were named UCA All-Americans: Kalie Korkmaz, Jena Tourtillott, and Kadyn Cook. These young ladies were selected for showcasing exceptional cheerleading and dance ability and are now recognized among the top cheerleaders in the country! Several other Butler cheerleaders also received individual awards throughout the camp for their performance and leadership.

Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) was founded in 1974 by Jeff Webb, with a mission to combine advanced cheerleading techniques with traditional crowd leadership. Over the past 50 years, UCA has grown into the largest cheerleading camp company in the world, training over 180,000 athletes annually at more than 3,200 sessions nationwide.The Lady Bears feel privileged to have grown and studied at this event and they are ready to bring back to Butler what they have learned!

UCA is also widely known for hosting over 50 regional competitions and its national championship events at Walt Disney World Resort—many of which are televised on ESPN networks and CBS Sports, reaching over 100 million homes in 32 countries each year.

With a Superior rating under their belts and All-American athletes among their ranks, the Butler Sideline Cheerleaders are eager to bring their energy to the sidelines this fall. The team looks forward to leading the crowd and showing off the spirit of Butler High School throughout the 2025–2026 season.

Some thank you's and now let's Rodeo Up!

To our America-loving President, Kenny Gabriel: Thank you for all of your passion, dedication & hard work over the years to guide our saddle club into one that is blessed and active- allowing us put on an amazing rodeo & then pay it forward within our own community! Your vision is truly inspiring!

To the Bullfighter you see in that arena & BSC Member, Michael Coy! Thank you for all of your continuous hard work- both behind the scenes & out in that arena!

Last, but certainly not least:

The Butler Saddle Club is proud to be "Partners in Education". During the Saturday night performance, we presented our local Butler Elementary Teachers with a $750 donation. Representing BES is kindergarten teachers Amanda Lawson and Ashley Fennewald. Presenting the donation is Butler Saddle Club President Kenny Gabriel and BSC Secretary and Butler Schools Speech-Language Pathologist Pam Craft. This August elementary students will return with the donated school supplies ready for use. Thank you teachers for your determination and dedication to our students!

BES teachers will be set up for the last performance by the food vendors collecting donations for their school supply drive! Your support is greatly appreciated!

Join us TONIGHT for the final night of our 72nd Annual Butler Saddle Club Rodeo!

Mutton Busting: 7pm

Rodeo: 8 pm

See you at the Rodeo!

Amsterdam Jubilee announces Grand Marshal

 

Jubilee never takes the duty of picking a Grand Marshal lightly.

It's a mixture of duty, history, loyalty, community and family.

The pick for the 49th Amsterdam Jubilee embodies all of the above.

Her parents set a great example of community and family. Through their example. This year's Grand Marshal was raised and continues to leave her mark.

She has touched and shaped generations of our community.

We are proud that she is ours.

The following tribute was written by her oldest daughter and we could not of said it better ourselves.

Please help us welcome and honor our 2025 Amsterdam Jubilee Grand Marshal

Cathy Slattery

We couldn't be more happy that she is ours.

Cathy Slattery, formerly Cathy Lewis, was born and raised in Amsterdam. Her parents, Bill and Marjorie Lewis, were strong supporters of the Amsterdam community. Cathy attended Miami R-1 school, graduating as valedictorian in 1976. She was active in basketball, choir, and was regional vice president and then president of FHA. Cathy was the editor of the yearbook her senior year and had a hand in restoring items from the Bates County Museum.

After graduating from Miami, she attended CMSU in Warrensburg and earned her associates degree. She came back and worked at Miami as an aide in Kindergarten for two years before returning to CMSU to earn her Bachelor’s and then her Master’s. She was hired at Miami as a second grade teacher which she taught for two years before moving to her true calling as a Kindergarten teacher. She touched so many lives in her 29 years teaching Kindergarten. From yearly Zoo Trips, cooking every Friday, decorating the bank windows for Jubilee each year, to planning and hosting the best Kindergarten graduations, she devoted so much time and love to the youth in the Amsterdam community. Being a Kindergarten teacher was apart of her identity and her love of kids and doing what was best for them was always evident. Cathy was also the junior class sponsor many years planning prom and helping with project prom and was also apart of the PDC. She was moved to fifth grade and taught there for a year before retiring in 2015 leaving behind a legacy of true Eagle Pride. She worked as a sub at the Archie school district from her retirement until the premature birth of her grandson where she took on the role of Gigi full time.

Aside from devoting her life to educating generations, she was a constant supporter of the community. Cathy and her husband Dennis served on the Jubilee Committee for a few years before starting their family. She was the Amsterdam 4-H leader for 15 years. She was also a cooking leader and Clover kids leader. She worked for Barb and Nason Corwine at the Amsterdam Cafe and was an aide at Lake Mary’s School for Exceptional Children just over the state line.

Cathy married her husband Dennis June 1st, 1985. Together they have five children. Sons Jared, living on this earth an hour, Clay, and Ryan, and daughters Jenna and Caitlin. They raised their family in Amsterdam and instilled a sense of community pride in each of them. They loved living in this small town and continued to support the school and community with three of their children attending Miami from Kindergarten with their Mom as their teacher to graduation.

Growing up in Amsterdam gives you a different perspective than many have. Many people see Amsterdam as a tiny town with not a lot going on, but Cathy never even considered raising her family anywhere else. Her parents were staples of the community and raised her to know that family is what matters most, and that family doesn’t always mean those who share your blood or last name, but those who love and care for you. Bill and Marjorie served the Amsterdam community well over the years and are missed greatly.

Today, their children still live nearby. They have been blessed with 11 grandchildren: Zoe, Charlotte, Olivia, Bexon, Evelyn, Annalise, Ellasyn, Gibson, Anderson, Amelia and Langston.

Today, Cathy enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, trips to the lake, and attending all their activities. She still lives in and supports the Amsterdam community. She has been apart of many Jubilee parades from the time she was a teenager into adulthood with her own children participating and is honored to be apart of the parade again this year with her family by her side.

Mark your calendar, the Amsterdam Jubilee happens on September 27th.

Heat Advisory continues through tomorrow

 

THE HEAT ADVISORY continues through our Monday, and could conceivably be extended to Tuesday.

Some uncertainty toward Tuesday's forecast centers on a weak front arriving Monday afternoon and its associated showers & storms, although those look to stay primarily north and east of KC.

Upper-level ridging could dominate the forecast -- and keep things hot -- well into midweek.

-Greg@660weather

Horseback rider receives urgent medical attention

Yesterday afternoon, Rich Hill Fire, the Bates County Sheriff's Office, and Bates County EMS responded to a call southeast of Rich Hill. A horseback rider was dehydrated and disoriented.

Bates County Sheriff's dispatchers quickly pinpointed the area, enabling first responders to locate the individual.

Upon arrival, the individual expressed concern about the horse's ability to return. Rich Hill Fire then contacted the Sheriff's Office, who promptly arranged a truck and trailer for the horse's transport.

Below, Bates County Sheriff Chad Anderson personally got involved and according to his Facebook post, both horse and rider should fully recover.

Don't miss the final night of the Butler Saddle Club Rodeo!

 

COME ON OUT, the weather will be nice and there's a full schedule of events this evening. If you don't have tickets, they will be available at the gate, adults $12, kids 6-12 $8. See you there!

Obituary - Charles Edwin Sutterby

Charles Edwin Sutterby, age 73, of Blue Mound, Kansas passed away at his home on Thursday, June 19, 2025.

Funeral Service will be held at 11 am, Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at the Blue Mound Bible Church. Visitation will be from 10 am until service time at the church. Burial will be in the Mapleton Cemetery. Contributions are suggested to the Blue Moon Youth Center or Gideon's International.

Obituary - Mary Ann Thornton

Mary Ann Thornton, of Archie, Missouri, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on June 20, 2025, at her daughter’s home in Overland Park, Kansas. Born on June 11, 1948, in Miami, Oklahoma, to William and Helen (Arbs) Koontz, Mary Ann faced her final days with grace, strength, and unwavering faith.

Mary Ann lived a life rooted in devotion—to her faith and to the simple joys that brought her peace. She had a passion for traveling and cherished the countless memories made on each journey. She found purpose and joy in cooking and baking for others, always taking care to prepare meals that brought comfort to those she loved. A talented gardener, Mary Ann had a gift for nurturing herbs and flowers, creating beauty wherever she planted. Above all, she was a faithful servant of God, living each day guided by scripture, prayer, and a deep love for her Savior.

She is survived by her caregiver and daughter, Dianna (Thornton) Butler; her granddaughter, Brianna Thornton-Roland; her daughter, Jayne Ann (Thornton) Conklin, and son-in-law, Jack Conklin II. She also leaves behind her grandchildren Jessica Mathia (and husband Derek), Jack Conklin III (and wife Jhesica), and three cherished great-grandchildren: Jack IV, Avery, and Amelia.

A private graveside service will be held at 10:00AM on Monday, June 23rd, 2025, at Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, honoring Mary Ann’s legacy.

Highlights from the Butler Saddle Club Rodeo Friday evening

Reigning 2024 Queen, Bree Baney carrying our American Flag

Funny man act, Cops vs teachers. Teachers WON!

Pictured is Sheriff Chad Anderson and Captain Justin Shaffer with Butler Elementary Teachers Vickie Spencer and Keegan Lawrence.

Thank you Max Motors for supplying another beautiful truck for the rodeo

Tonight will be a big show at the Bates County Fairgrounds for the 72nd annual Butler Saddle Club Rodeo. Below is a sneak peek at the schedule, we'll see you there!

Appleton City Fair Royalty

Little Prince, Josh Haddock & Little Princess, Emery Poole

Senior King, Leroy Swopes & Senior Queen, Dorotha Swopes

Between the five little prince/princess candidates, they raised almost $4000! Thank you to all our Royalty contestants as seen here.

Appleton City Fair Bake Off Blue Ribbon Winners

Pies: Scarlet Watson- Cherry Pie| Cakes: Mona McDaniel- German Chocolate Cake Breads: Nancy Snodgrass- Zucchini Bread Cinnamon Rolls: Harper Stoddard Cookies: Kim Meszaros- Italian Nut Balls with Apricot Jam

Thank you to all for participating in our first Bake Off. All items will be auctioned tonight at 6:00pm.

Butler man injured in early morning accident

According to a report filed by the Missouri Highway Patrol, a  pickup driven by 37 year old Sean Thompson of Butler left the roadway and overturned just east of Amoret on 52 highway around 1 a.m. this morning.

The victim received serious injuries and was transported by air ambulance to Research Hospital in Kansas City.

A busy day in Appleton City

 

TAKING DOWN THE 'BAD GUY' As part of the festivities during the Appleton City Fair, the St. Clair County Sheriff's Office held a demonstration seen here, K-9 'Babs' shows the finer points of immobilizing the perpetrator. Below, Perrie, age 6, finds a much nicer side of Babs, along with Deputy Samuel Clenin.

More highlights:

Accident on I-49 near Butler

A car has found itself on top of the guard rail in the southbound lanes of I 49 near the Butler exit. Traffic is moving very slowly through the area, you might want to find an alternate route. 

No additional details are available at this time.

Keep your cool today

 

Happening now: Appleton City Fair

 

Bates County Fair: Meet your candidates

 Bates County Fair Princess Candidate

Laney Sue Lynn Kohler is a 5th grader from Merwin, Missouri. She is the daughter of Matt and Amber Kohler and attends Adrian Elementary School, where her favorite subject is math. Laney is an active member of the Next Generation 4-H Club and participates in soccer, basketball, and her school's math contest team. She enjoys showing cattle, swimming, reading, and running the grain cart during harvest. She's no stranger to hard work—she often helps her family on the farm, including operating the skid steer.

Laney’s favorite thing about the Bates County Fair is showing her cattle and watching others show their animals. Her favorite fair memory is dancing and staying up late with friends. She admires her parents for all they’ve taught her, especially about farming and raising animals, and looks up to her mom who is a teacher—just like Laney hopes to be one day. Her favorite motto is "The Best Memories are Made on a Farm."

Laney ran for Princess because she loves the Bates County Fair and wants to help it continue for future generations. A fun fact about Laney is that last year she broke her arm but still showed her cattle—one-handed!

Bates County Fair Queen Candidate

Alexis Bridges is 18 years old and the daughter of Jessica Bridges. She will be entering the 12th grade at Adrian High School this fall. Her favorite subject is history, and she is actively involved in FFA, 4-H, and basketball.

After high school, Alexis plans to pursue a career as a physical therapist. She is looking forward to showing her animal at the Bates County Fair. Her role model is her mother, whom she looks up to because she has always been there for her.

In her spare time, Alexis enjoys being outdoors, spending time with her family, and caring for her rabbit.

Bates County Fair Queen Candidate

Miranda Jo Foster is 18 years old and proudly calls Butler, Missouri, her hometown. She is the daughter of Dustin and Misty Foster and a 2024 graduate of Butler High School. While in school, Miranda was an active member of the Butler FFA Chapter, Interact Club, and played softball. She is currently working toward her goal of becoming a preschool teacher.

Miranda’s favorite hobbies include showing livestock—especially her goats and sheep—spending time with family, and hanging out with friends. She loves being part of the Bates County Fair, especially seeing the community come together each year to support local youth through shows and events. She also enjoys volunteering with the Fair Board to help with various activities throughout the week.

Her favorite fair memories include being recognized by many people for her hard work with her livestock, attending the fair dance, and participating in the livestock shows. Miranda looks up to her dad, mom and sister, who have taught her to be strong, kind, and resilient in the face of life’s challenges.

Miranda is running for Fair Queen because she wants to inspire others by stepping outside her comfort zone, trying something new, and speaking in public. She hopes to be a positive role model and share her love for the fair with the community, encouraging others to join in and create their own fair memories.

Obituary - Robert "Bob" Schowengerdt

 Funeral services for Joseph Robert "Bob" Schowengerdt of Independence, Missouri, formerly of Butler, Missouri will be 12 noon Friday, June 27, 2025 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri.  Visitation prior to services 11 a.m. - 12 noon at Schowengerdt Chapel. Burial in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler.  Contributions to Children’s Mercy Hospital or St. Luke’s Hospice House.  Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Joseph Robert “Bob” Schowengerdt, age 81 of Independence, Missouri died Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at St. Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City, Missouri.  He was born April 29, 1944 to A.B. and Dorothy Inez Cox Schowengerdt in Ft. Scott, Kansas.

Bob is survived by his wife, Sherry Schowengerdt of Independence, Missouri; two daughters, Michelle Pehriz and husband Cagatay of Oak Grove, Missouri and Nicole Schowengerdt of Independence, Missouri; two brothers, Gary Schowengerdt and wife Trevalyn of Butler, Missouri and Dr. Ronald D. Schowengerdt, DDS and wife Linda of Nevada, Missouri; stepbrother, Claude Burch and wife Carol of Parkville, Missouri; stepsister, Diana Crawford and husband Bill of Kansas City, Missouri; three grandchildren, ASLI Pehriz and fiancé Andrew Wilkins, Burak Pehriz and Devon Highley; several nephews and nieces; and a host of friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, AB and Dorothy Schowengerdt; stepmother, Aleta Burch Schowengerdt; and a nephew, Bryan Scot Schowengerdt.

Let's Rodeo!

 

Obituary - Robert Franklin Goens

Robert Franklin Goens, “Frank” age 82 of Louisburg Kansas, passed away on June 18, 2025 at his home in Louisburg. Graveside services will be held 10:30 am Tuesday, June 24, 2025 in Rockville Cemetery, Louisburg, KS. Services under the direction of Mullinax Funeral Home, Drexel Chapel (816-657-4400). Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans. Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

Frank was born on October 25, 1942, in Bargetown, Kentucky, the son of Reldie Mae Gilpin and William Edward Goens. He grew up Kentucky and moved around until he ended up in Kansas. Frank was drafted to the Army in 1965 and spent 2 years in the service in Alaska. He was honorably discharged with the Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Service Medal. He worked for Fordyce hauling concrete until he retired and spent the rest of his years working on the farm.

Frank met and married Sue A. Goens 57 years ago, when they moved to Louisburg and established their family farm. They raised cattle, pigs, chickens, and he enjoyed planting a garden. He was known for the best watermelon and cantaloupes in town. When he wasn’t hard at work on the farm, he enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Frank was proud of his family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He had many friends and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was the true definition of a neighbor always checking in, helping with what he could. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, wife Sue Goens, and brothers, Randy and Billy Goens. He is survived by his son Greg Goens and wife Airene, grandson, Alan Goens and wife Lindsay, granddaughter, Kelli Goens and fiancé Steve Smith, step-granddaughter Allen Pepito and Julio Alvarez, along with great-grandchildren, Wesley Goens and Hudson Flores.