Henry County Sheriff's Office ends long running investigation

On June 30, 2025, Steven Michael Cope Jr. was taken into custody in the Raytown area, bringing a long-running investigation one step closer to justice.

For several months, deputies and detectives from the Henry County Sheriff’s Office have worked diligently to locate and safely apprehend Cope Jr., who has posed a flight risk. With the help of our law enforcement counterparts in the region, we were able to close in and bring him in without incident.

Cope Jr. was wanted on the following outstanding warrants:

Class D Felony – Tampering with Electronic Monitoring Equipment ($75,000 cash-only bond)

Class D Felony – Endangering the Welfare of a Child Creating a Substantial Risk – 1st Degree – 1st Offense (No bond)

We’re thankful for the teamwork that led to the arrest of Cope Jr. This outcome reflects steady police work and strong partnerships. Our focus remains on doing the job right and holding individuals accountable—no matter where they try to run.

Family Care Clinics holiday hours

Holiday Hours – Family Care Clinics

All Family Care Clinic locations (Adrian, Butler and Rich Hill) will close early at 3 PM on Wednesday, July 3, and remain closed July 4–5 in observance of Independence Day.

If you need to reach us, call 660-200-3627

Learn more about care for your whole family:

https://bcmhospital.com/family-care-clinics/

Wanna have some fun?

Adrian Community Theater's fall production of A Candle in the Window is calling YOU!

We’re seeking a large cast and crew to bring this heartwarming holiday tale to life. Whether you love the spotlight or prefer working behind the scenes, there’s a role for everyone!

All casting and audition info:

https://us.cast98.com/.../a-candle-in-the-window-2025...

Obituary - Vicki Louise Yokley

 Vicki Louise Yokley, age 71, passed away peacefully in her home on July 1, 2025, in Nevada, Missouri.

Born on August 18, 1953, in Arthur, Nebraska, Vicki spent most of her life in Nevada, Missouri, where she built a loving home and lasting friendships. On January 17, 1976, she married the love of her life, Alvin Yokley, and together they shared nearly five decades of love, laughter, and family.

Vicki was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud Nana, and cherished sister whose presence brought comfort and joy to all who knew her. She is survived by her husband, Alvin; her son, Brian Yokley and his wife Christy of Gardner, Kansas; and her beloved grandchildren, Cale and Ava, who knew and adored her as their Nana. She is also survived by her siblings: Dale Rasmussen, Rod (Cindy) Rasmussen, Jack (Jane) Rasmussen, Jay (Dee) Rasmussen, and Connie (Doug) Montague; her two stepdaughters, Amy and Carrie; and numerous nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, August and Avis Rasmussen; her brother, Jim Rasmussen; her sister, Regina Rasmussen; and her sister-in-law, Kathy (Dale) Rasmussen.

Vicki had a lifelong love of reading, a passion for travel, and a special talent for baking—her homemade pies brought smiles to many. She also enjoyed playing cards and dominoes, always welcoming a bit of friendly competition and laughter around the table. But above all, her greatest joy came from being “Nana” to Cale and Ava. Her warmth, gentle humor, and loving spirit will be remembered always and deeply missed.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 7, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada, Missouri. Funeral services will follow on Tuesday, July 8, at 10:00 a.m., also at Ferry Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you spend time with those you love—just as Vicki would have wanted.

Obituary - Vicky Kay Gray

Vicky Kay Gray age 80 of Raymore, Missouri departed this life Monday, June 30, 2025 at Foxwood Springs Healthcare, Raymore, Missouri. 

Cremation with no services scheduled. 

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or Wounded Warrior Project. Donations can be made through the link or send in care to Dickey Funeral Home P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, Missouri 64701.

Obituary - Vera Faye Schacher

Vera Faye Schacher, 81, of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away on Monday, June 30, 2025 at her son's home. Graveside services will be held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville, MO. Memorial contributions are suggested to Harrisonville Christian School - Kinder Castle.

A complete obituary will be posted when it is available. Courtesy Atkinson Funeral Home

Heat and humidity to return by weekend

 Heat and humidity build back in through the end of the week.

Heat index values mid to upper 90's by Friday. Courtesy 660 Weather

Monthly report from the Rich Hill police department

Calls for Service: 181

Animal Calls: 10

Suspicious Activity: 4

Traffic Stops: 29

Pursuits: 1

Disturbances: 2

Building Checks: 11

Code Enforcement: 29

Speak to Officer: 32

Agency Assists: 3

Arrests: 5

Reports taken: 9

Citations wrote: 17

Minutes from June 25 Bates County Commission meeting

June 25, 2025 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

John made the motion to pay the Quad Lakes Solid Waste Management District Dues of $1,240.00. Trent seconded the motion. All vote yes. Motion carried. No opposition.

Sheriff Chad Anderson came in for his scheduled meeting. In attendance were Chief Corbin, Detective Stockdale, Detective Fishbaugh, Deputy Jackson, Deputy Covington, Adrian City Administrator Ryan WestCoat, County Clerk Jami Page and Mid-America Live News Review Doug Mager. In question is an invoice Chad has submitted 4 weeks ago for $10,500.00 for the Rodeo Company to put on The Sheriff's Office /Sheriff's Posse Rodeo in the fall. It has not been approved and suspects it has been denied. He would like to find out why? This is the 5th year and the last 4 have been funded the same way. Why is it inappropriate now? Jim states “one thing I want you to understand, I have nothing against the rodeo. My issue is the way it’s being funded.” Jim further explains that his problem is that there are other funds that Chad has available to use for the Rodeo instead of the what the US Marshalls are paying him to use it on. Jim stated that the Auditors have said over and over that those funds cannot be used for these types of operations. The attorneys that they have talked to have said you can’t be paying for it now. Jim questioned why the county should pay for it out of taxpayer’s dollars when The Sheriff’s Office has the Posse group that is a 501C3 that gets the proceeds from the Rodeo. Chad went on to explain that this falls under a Community Policing program. Which provides a good and positive interaction between law enforcement and the community. Instead of at their worst and most emergent times. Chad stated by not funding the Rodeo he feels that the Commission is not honoring their agreement to “The Blue Shield Program” where they clearly stated they would support community policing initiatives. Chad explains that the statutes are vague on expenditures for public functions. To find an answer he talked to several attorneys. They have stated to him that this falls under the public purpose doctrine. Check the State Constitution, State Statutes and court case rulings. Chad feels this would end up decided by court case precedence. He listed several cases where public purpose doctrines had been applied. Chad stated the Commission donates to the Children’s Center and Mercy Hospital. As well as distributed the Federal ARPA funds following guidelines to public entities. Chad explained that the ARPA money was given out the way it was because of Public purpose Doctrine otherwise it went against the State Constitution and the State Statutes as well. It became county money and the county must abide by those articles regardless of being a Federal grant. Chad also stated that his budget was approved in the fall, and it should have been understood he would be funding the Rodeo. As he has in the past 4 years, therefore the Commission has already approved the funding of the Rodeo. He stated that as an elected official he is the decider on how his approved money is spent. The Commission does not have line-item veto capability. It was asked later for clarification if his Budget has a specific line item on the budget for the Rodeo and he stated no but it should be assumed. The Commission has spent several hours looking into how other counties and cities fund their public functions. The result was many ways are used. From outright funding with taxpayer's money to donations and selling tickets. Ryan spoke on what the Rodeo means for the City of Adrian and how they have put money into improving the arena used. He also stated they donate the electricity used for the Rodeo. John also stated that this benefits more than the Sheriff's office. This is a huge community event and he is all for it. Chad asked what the rift was with the Rodeo. Jami stated that the rift was the Sheriff’s Posse being funded by the proceeds from the rodeo when the county is paying for the rodeo with taxpayer's money. The Sheriff’s Posse sells advertisements space during the Rodeo. They also offer their membership and sell T-shirts for the Rodeo. There are other vendors, and the Optimist Club does concessions. Chad states he has stopped all other funding of the Posse that he has done in the past. Chad feels that the auditor’s opinion has been skewed by people who hate everything the Sheriff does. He further states that the Sheriff's Office Audit has not been released. The county was Audited by the state in 2024. During the County’s Audit the Sheriff’s Office was moved to its own Audit. The findings are still pending. One deposition was made. Chad went on to state continual issues with invoices being either held and or questioned since 2023. He also asked Jami about the Family Fun Day the Sheriff’s office held years ago as she had organized it. He stated the kids that go to these events are those kids that can’t afford to go to things like worlds of fun. She stated yes, she remembers, and she knows it was paid for by the taxpayer’s money. However, she has learned a lot as the County Clerk and how things need to be accountable to the taxpayers for the use of their money. Ryan spoke on how the City of Adrian matches what is donated to the city for the firework display they do every year. He would really like to see the Rodeo continue for the people and his city. Chad asked Jami if she had talked to her attorney and she stated that in his opinion generally things like the rodeo are funded by donations from the community. Chad feels that the Sheriff's office has the money and should be able to pay for it and not ask for civic donations. Chad feels that this is a control issue by the Commission. He feels as an elected official he should be able to spend his approved budget as he sees fit. He stated from the per diem issue to the rodeo what next? He states he has bent over backwards and kept it peaceful. He states if they don’t approve the invoice, he wants the word that it is canceled to come from the Commission. Chad stated, “The Commission needs to be responsible for notifying the public that the rodeo is cancelled.” Ryan states that if the Commission does not approve the invoice and cancel the Rodeo that they let him know 2 months ahead of time so he can look at other avenues to fund it. John stated he doesn’t want to control the Sheriff's Office. John stated he has learned a lot and did talk to a few auditors and feels the audit is “just a witch hunt” John stated the county spent $35,000.00 for the audit. Jim stated we haven’t had an audit in 8 years Note this correction, there have been 2 audits over the last 3 years, one independent audit, required for federal money received and disbursed, and one state. A financial audit is required every 2 years and possibly more under certain circumstances. The state audits generally every 4 years. The independent audit was the only one paid for by the county $25540.00. This was paid out of ARPA money. Financial audits are paid for by the county. Jim states we really appreciate everything the Sheriff's Office does regardless of what he thinks or hears. We will work over this afternoon, and we’ll let you know Monday afternoon.

Work in progress

Policy Regarding Indigent Cremations given 8/25/2023 nothing since April

Rattlesnake Hill Roads 11/06/2023 evening meeting 6/11/25 still gaining signatures

Policy Regarding Computer, E-Mail, Devices and Social Media given nothing since 2/14/2024

Telephone Contracts 3/11/2024 bids out 6/25 opening 6/30/25

Opioid Settlement Resolution 10/2/2024 (Judge Highley)

EEZ Board 3/26/2025 Proposal Fee with scope of work received $12,000.00 fixed fee 6/11/25

Fashion Review showcases local talent

 

The 2025 Bates County Fair festivities began on Monday, June 30, when 12 young ladies from around the county gathered for judging in three categories: Crochet, Construction/Sewing, and Shopping in Style.  During their time together, youth had the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned about clothing construction, purchasing selections, and personal appearance.  Judging for Fashion Revue is done by category and age division.  Winners will receive awards at the completion of the Fashion Show.  The Fashion Show will be held at the Bates County Fair Bash on Tuesday, July 8 at 6:30pm. 

L to R Back Row: Isabel Branson, Hannah Williams, Emma Williams, Olivia Williams, Annabelle Patrick

Middle Row: Susan Branson, Micah Luther, Paisley Black, Emmy Lacy

Front Row: Myka Morrill, Madeline Martin, Mae Bettels

Photo Credit: Amy Lacy

Flip through this week's news-Review and Shopper!

 Follow this link to flip through the pages https://online.fliphtml5.com/xgttb/zuha/

Obituary - Ruth Marcela Miller

Ruth Marcela Miller, 77, Nevada, MO passed away on Monday, June 30, 2025 at her home in Nevada.

  Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada. Interment will follow in Newton Burial park. The family will receive friends from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home.

Obituary - Phyllis Ann Chaney

Phyllis Ann Chaney, 93, of Harrisonville, Missouri, peacefully passed away on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at Crown Care in Harrisonville. A memorial service will be held at Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 2:00 PM, with visitation beginning at 1:00 PM. Memorial contributions are recommended to MARC in Harrisonville to support Senior Citizens in-home care.

Born on March 22, 1932, in Toledo, Ohio, the daughter of Lester and Charlotte (Martin) Metzgar, Phyllis spent her early years in Mound City, Missouri, where she graduated from Bellevue High School. Phyllis dedicated 14 years of her life as a school bus driver, where her warm smile and caring nature touched the lives of countless children. She later worked for Skelly Oil Company as a keypuncher for 15 years, alongside numerous odd jobs that showcased her keen work ethic and versatility.

Phyllis had a zest for life, embracing her passions for dancing and playing cards with family and friends. She cherished the joy of connecting with others, as her laughter and spirit brought light to every gathering. On May 10, 1955, Phyllis married the love of her life, Forrest Chaney. Their bond was a beautiful testament to love and companionship until Forrest's passing on January 8, 2007. As we gather to remember Phyllis, let us celebrate her remarkable spirit, her unwavering love for her family, and the joyful moments she shared with us all. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband, Forrest Chaney; her parents; her sister, Jerry Heck; and her good friend, Jerry Barnes. Phyllis leaves behind a legacy of love within her family. She is survived by her daughter, Terry (Jim) Corless; her brother, Tom (Connie) Metzgar; her grandchildren, Cali (Neal) Casey and Seth (Julie) Corless; and her great-grandchildren: Lilli, Killian, Natalie, and Parr.

40 participate in Glow Run/Walk

The Butler Student Advisory Committee did an excellent job putting together the Activity Day and Glow Run/Walk on Saturday. They had 40 participants in the Glow Run/Walk and raised $400.00 for the BCMH Mammogram Fund.

They also had people out playing Pickleball and other games in the park. We would like to thank Sonic, Elite Perks, BCMH, Gail's Graphics, Butler Fire Department, Custom Creations and C&S Graphics for all your help and support.

We would also like to thank Ganga Fernando from coming up and teaching about Pickleball. It was a wonderful evening and we look forward to doing it again.

Appleton City fireworks ordinance

 Click image to enlarge

Rich Hill reminder regarding fireworks

With the holiday approaching, now is the time to refresh on the city ordinance for fireworks. Please reference ordinance number 1397 Fireworks for use of fireworks and what is prohibited within city limits. This can be found on the city's website under the ordinance tab. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us.

Section 4: Use of fireworks with aerial trajectory prohibited.

It shall be unlawful for any person to possess with intent to discharge, throw, use, explode, detonate or shoot, within the city limits, bottle rockets, rockets of all types and sizes and any and all fireworks with an aerial trajectory having a cylinder or cartridge that is not intended to be completely consumed before landing.

Section 5: Use of other fireworks limited.

It shall be unlawful for any person to throw or place any fireworks, including pyrotechnic devices, in such manner that the explosion of same will likely endanger or cause injury or damage to any person or property; provided further that it shall be unlawful for any person to shoot or detonate fireworks of any nature within the city limits except on June 20th to July 3rd until 10:00 p.m., through the event until 10:00 p.m., and July 4th to midnight of each year.

Meth and paraphernalia seized in Vernon county

Today, the Vernon County Sheriff's Office and the Nevada Police Department executed a narcotics search warrant in northwest Vernon County as part of an ongoing investigation into the distribution of methamphetamine.

During the operation, law enforcement took three subjects into custody. Law enforcement seized methamphetamine and related paraphernalia from the residence.

All three individuals were transported to the Vernon County Jail for holding. A request for the filing of formal charges will be submitted to the Vernon County Prosecutor’s Office for review.

We remain committed to keeping our communities safe and holding those involved in the distribution of illegal drugs accountable

Obituary - Maynard Dean Browning

Maynard Dean Browning, 88, Nevada, MO passed away on Monday, June 30, 2025 at Nevada Regional Medical Center.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 7, 2025 at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada. The family will receive friends from 10-11:00 a.m. prior to the service.

Memorials are suggested in his name to the American Heart Association c/o Ferry Funeral Home.

Obituary - Kelly Kehl

Kelly Kehl, age 87, of Mound City, Kansas passed away Saturday, June 28, 2025 at his rural Mound City home. Kelly was born March 25, 1938 south of Parker, Kansas to Keith (Tom) Emerson Kehl and Helen Edith (Giffin) Kehl. Kelly attended elementary school in Lawrence, Kansas before the family moved to Blue Mound, Kansas in 1946. He worked in his teen years mowing at the Pleasant View Cemetery and a variety of other jobs. In high school he played football and basketball, graduating in 1956. October 18, 1959 Kelly and Maribeth Maxine West were married in Mound City, Kansas, followed by the birth of their two children, daughter Melissa, and son, Kris. In 1966, the family made Mound City, Kansas their home. Kelly worked for a surveying company, an elevator company, as a bulldozer operator for his father-in-law, Bernard West, and in 1968 returned to the elevator industry where he worked for several elevator companies and was a member of the International Union of Elevator Constructors Local #12, until he retired in 1996. Kelly liked hunting (quail, deer, elk), trout fishing, and camping in the mountains of Colorado and Wyoming. He spent many hours caring for his Missouri Fox Trotter mares and their mule offspring and registered horse colts. In later years he enjoyed having coffee with "the guys" at Everybody's in Mound City. Survivors include his partner in life, Maribeth Kehl of Mound City, daughter, Melissa (Marshall) Toburen of Kansas City, Kansas, son, Kris (Dina) Kehl of Odessa, Missouri, granddaughters, Katelynn Kehl of Great Bend, Kansas, Kelsey Kehl of Kansas City, Missouri, and sister, Kay Kehl Roberts, Columbia, Missouri. In addition to his parents, Kelly was preceded in death by a grandson, Kade Kehl, and infant sister, Beverly Ann Kehl.

A graveside funeral service will be held 11 am Thursday, July 3, 2025 at the Pleasant View Cemetery, Blue Mound, Kansas. Friends and family will gather 10 am prior to the funeral home at the Schneider Funeral Home, Mound City Chapel. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 pm Wednesday, July 2 at the Schneider Mound City Chapel. Memorial contributions are suggested to Blue Mound Alumni Association or the Mound City Historical Society. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.

Obituary - Elmo "Buck" Grable

 

Elmo "Buck" Grable age 77 of Creighton, Missouri departed this life Thursday, June 26, 2025 at Lee's Summit Medical Center, Lee's Summit, Missouri. 

Cremation with graveside service will be held at a later date. 

A complete obituary and service details will be posted once that information becomes available, courtesy Dickey Funeral Home.