Adrian’s Allyson Spurgeon Crowned World Champion in Western Pleasure

By Cody Morris, Tailgate TV

ADRIAN, Mo. – Adrian High School junior Allyson Spurgeon is riding high after an unforgettable summer on the national stage. In her first full year of competition, Spurgeon captured the title of World Champion in the 18 & Under Walk/Trot Western Pleasure division at the American Buckskin World Championship Show.

Representing the Tom Williams Show Horses team, Spurgeon didn’t just win big — she showed remarkable consistency across the board. She earned a total of three Top 5 finishes and three Top 10 finishes, including a Reserve World Champion title in 18 & Under Halter Geldings.

Her performance in the Walk/Trot Western Pleasure class set her apart from a highly competitive field. Western Pleasure is a discipline judged on the horse’s smooth, collected movement and the rider’s control and presentation. In the walk/trot division, every detail matters — and Spurgeon delivered under pressure.

What makes her success even more impressive is the fact that she’s still early in her showing career. With only one full season under her belt, Spurgeon is already standing at the top of her age group on a national level.

As she looks ahead to her future in the show world, one thing is certain — Allyson Spurgeon is a rising force in Western Pleasure competition, and the American Buckskin Horse Association just witnessed the beginning of what could be a decorated career.

From Adrian to the world stage, she’s proving she’s exactly where she belongs — in the winner’s circle.

Rich Hill’s Zane Becker Signs with Pitt State

By Cody Morris, Tailgate TV

RICH HILL, Mo. – A standout on the court, on the track, and now soon on the collegiate stage — Rich Hill senior Zane Becker has officially signed his letter of intent to join the Pittsburg State University track and field program this fall.

Becker, a 2025 graduate, will begin training with the Gorillas as a multi-event athlete, bringing with him an impressive combination of athleticism, drive, and discipline. Rich Hill High School announced the news this week, celebrating Becker’s accomplishment with a public statement congratulating him on the next chapter of his career.

Throughout his senior year, Becker has turned heads across Missouri. In the spring, he shattered a 52-year-old school record in the 110-meter hurdles, clocking a time of 15.64 seconds in just his second-ever race at that distance. He also posted top-tier performances in events like the high jump, long jump, sprints, and relays — showcasing the kind of all-around athletic ability that makes him a perfect fit for collegiate multi-event training.

Becker also made his presence felt on the basketball court, becoming one of several talented athletes who contributed to a strong campaign for the Tigers this season. He reached the 1,000-point milestone during a home win over Osceola and delivered several clutch performances throughout tournament play, helping lead Rich Hill to a district championship appearance.

Now, he turns his focus to the NCAA Division II stage, joining a Pittsburg State program known nationally for its excellence in track and field. With a strong foundation built in Rich Hill, Becker’s next chapter promises to be just as impactful — and even more exciting.

Weekly report from the Henry County Sheriff's Office

July 18, 2025 – July 24, 2025

Sheriff Aaron N. Brown reports the following arrests and incidents for the week:

• July 19, 2025 – Warrant:

Deputy Chaney conducted an agency assist in the Windsor area and arrested John Paxton, age 42, of Windsor for domestic assault at the request of the Clinton Police Department. Custody of Paxton was transferred to Clinton Police Department without incident.

• July 23, 2025 – Driving While Suspended or Revoked:

Deputy Hinkle and Deputy Douglas conducted a traffic stop in the Windsor area that resulted in the arrest of James Pickard, age 54, of Leeton for driving while suspended or revoked.

• July 23, 2025 – Driving Under the Influence:

Deputy Douglas and Deputy Landes conducted a traffic stop in the rural Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Hannah Shaw, age 26, of Clinton for driving under the influence.

• July 23, 2025 – Warrant:

Sheriff Brown conducted a traffic stop in the rural Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Michael Ward II, age 29, of Windsor on two Henry County warrants for trespassing.

• July 23, 2025 – Warrant:

Captain Hills conducted a traffic stop in the rural Clinton area that resulted in the arrest of Matthew Medrano, age 28, of Sedalia on two Pettis County warrants for traffic offenses.

• July 24, 2025 – Warrant:

Deputy Evans conducted a follow-up in the Windsor area and arrested Jonathan Tessmer, age 47, of Windsor on a Henry County felony warrant for tampering with electronic monitoring equipment.

All individuals arrested are considered 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.

Obituary - Jerry Brasher

 Jerry Richard Brasher, 82, Nevada, MO, passed away on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the University of Kansas Medical Center, in Kansas City, KS.  Jerry was born on May 15, 1943, in Jerico Springs, MO, to Richard and Rosa Grace (Beydler) Brasher.

    Jerry grew up in Vernon and Cedar Counties and graduated from Sheldon High School, Class of 1961.  He served in the United States Navy for a time aboard the U.S.S. Missouri.  Jerry worked at the Nevada State Hospital for 32 years until his retirement.  

    Jerry enjoyed many trips to Branson with his companion, Linda Owens.  He also enjoyed raising horses and cattle, as well as his coffee group at McDonald’s.  He attended Life Walk Church in Nevada.

     In addition to his companion of 44 years, Linda, Jerry is survived by a son, Jerry Lynn Brasher, Nevada, MO;  daughter, Terry Smith, Grandview, MO; six grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; brother, J.C. Brasher, El Dorado Springs, MO; sister, Beverly Cunningham (Dwayne), Greenfield, MO; several nieces and nephews; brothers-in-law, Willie Niehoff, Stockton, MO, Jim Jones, St. Louis, MO, and Rusty Baker, Nevada, MO; step-grandchildren, Amanda Bearden, A.J. Owens, and Doug Baker; and several step-great-grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by a daughter, Vicki Brown; grandson, Joshua Brasher; 2 sisters, Meribel Jones and Ruth Ann Niehoff; brother, Larry Brasher; step-daughter, Lisa Wittwer; step-son, Don Owens; step-great-grandson, Grady Owens; son-in-law, Richard Smith; and brothers-in-law, Don Baker and Jim Baker.

     Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Ferry Funeral Home with Pastor Dewayne Cunningham officiating.  The family will receive friends from 9:00-10:00 a.m. prior to the service.  Interment will follow in Brasher Cemetery, Jerico Springs, MO.  In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family in care of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada.

Easterseals Midwest Brings Home Visiting and Autism Services to Families in Bates County

July 2025 (Bates County, MO) – Families in Bates County can now access Home Visiting and Autism Services through Easterseals Midwest.

The Early Childhood - Home Visiting program, an affiliate of Parents as Teachers, connects families with trained parent educators who provide personalized in-home support to help build caregiver confidence and promote healthy child development. Available to families with children up to age three both with and without disabilities, the program provides practical tools to help children thrive. No diagnosis is needed to begin, and families who qualify for WIC automatically qualify for free services.

Home visits typically occur twice per month, though frequency can be adjusted based on a family’s needs, and include:
● Developmental guidance and learning activities
● Diapers or wipes at every visit
● Monthly books and quarterly age-appropriate toys
● Developmental screenings
● Stress-reduction strategies and parenting support

“Whether you’re curious about milestones, need fresh ideas for learning activities, or just want reassurance that your child is on track, home visits are an excellent resource,” said Amy 
Sawyer, Program Manager at Easterseals Midwest.

Parent Educator Tracy Rich has already seen local success: “I’ve been working with a family whose two-year-old was nonverbal when we started home visits,” said Rich. “Within just two months, that child was saying 10 words.”

Autism Services are also available through Easterseals’ Kansas City office, offering individualized support for children and families. Services include professional assessments, therapy (such as Applied Behavior Analysis and occupational therapy), and caregiver training to help improve communication, social skills, and daily routines. Families can also access caregiver coaching, participate in support groups, and receive advocacy support during school IEP meetings. Consultation services and educational presentations are available to help parents and professionals better understand and support individuals with autism.

To request Early Childhood - Home Visiting services, visit: https://www.easterseals.com/midwest/programs-and-services/earlychildhood-services/home-visiting.html

For more information about Autism Services, contact Casey Melancon at casey.melancon@esmw.org or 816-891-2930.

About Easterseals Midwest

Easterseals Midwest is a nonprofit organization leading the way to 100% equity, inclusion, and access through life-changing disability and community services. Easterseals provides essential services and on-the-ground support to nearly 7,500 people each year across Illinois, Kansas, and Missouri through six divisions: Autism, Community Living, Early Childhood - Home Visiting, Health Home, Employment , and Hearing and Speech Programs. Together, we’re empowering people with disabilities, families, and communities to be full and equal participants in society. To learn more, visit www.easterseals.com/midwest.

Attention 4-H'ers: Register now for State speaking contest

Register now for the State 4-H Public Speaking Contest on October 4th! Registration in 4-H Online is open through August 31st and costs only $12. Click the link below to register today!

https://statepublicspeaking.4honline.com

Great day for Archie FFA

 

Members of the Archie FFA competed in the Area 7 FFA Sand Volleyball Tournament today and walked away undefeated. Congratulations!

Student Advisory Committee makes special donation

We met with members of the Butler Student Advisory Committee today to thank them for their donation to the BCMH Cares Mammogram Fund - proceeds from their Glow Run fundraiser this June.

Pictured, Chris Pope (Imaging Services Director) and Linda Jennings (BCCHF member and BCMH Board member) gathered for a chat with the group and with the City of Butler's administrator Corey Snead.
Please help us thank this group of young people for being proactive in making their own community a great place to live! The Butler Student Advisory Committee has been active for two years as part of a community improvement initiative by the City of Butler Missouri. We are thankful for all of the "helpers" in our community, young and old(er), and for those who are investing in our next generation.
The BCMH Cares Mammogram Fund benefits local women who need screening mammograms but are uninsured. Learn more about BCMH Cares: https://bcmhospital.com/bcmh-cares/
Bates County Community Health Foundation

ACT seeking a Few Good Men (and boys!)

We Need a Few Good Men (and Boys)!

 
The Adrian Community Theater fall production of A Candle in the Window is casting NOW!
We’re looking for 5 men/older teen boys and 3 boys ages 10–15 to help bring this heartwarming story to life.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something special—auditions are coming up soon!
Details and sign-up: https://us.cast98.com/.../a-candle-in-the-window-2025...
Tag a friend, share the news, and join the ACT family!

Another round of storms today

Prepare cattle for second heat wave

Missouri farmers, the second heat wave of the summer is here and it could be even more dangerous than the first. Cattle are especially vulnerable now due to cumulative heat stress and reduced resilience.

Extreme heat can cause serious stress and lower production in your herd.

Five things you can do to protect your cattle:

Add shade near watering tanks and feed bunks

Ensure fresh, clean water is always available

Avoid handling and transportation during peak heat

Wet animals with large droplets instead of a fine mist

Practice good fly control

Get more information and tips: https://brnw.ch/21wUiOc

Courtesy MU Extension office, Bates County

You could have a hauntingly good time!

 

Do you love acting and love supporting your community? We have the perfect volunteer opportunity for you!! The 2025 Spirit Stroll will be held Saturday Oct. 4th from 5-7PM. Actors will pick a Bates Countian to portray with a 3-5min dramatic interpretation. Contact director@batescountymuseum.org to get involved!

Obituary - Lance Leslie Sears

Lance Leslie Sears, age 87, Hume, Missouri passed away on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. He was born on July 3, 1938 in Pleasanton, Kansas the son of Leslie and Sybil Simmons Sears. He graduated from Hume High School in the class of 1956. Lance was united in marriage to SharonGordon on November 19, 1960. He was a member of the Missouri National Guard for 8 years and was a lifelong farmer. He was very active in the Hume Christian Church, serving as the Sunday school superintendent for 10 years, as well as a deacon and an elder for many years. He went on 22 mission trips to Haiti with Northwest Haiti Christian Missions. He enjoyed camping with Sharon in Branson and Cassville and watching the Chiefs and the Royals. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Shirley Lawrence. Lance is survived by his wife, Sharon, a son, Kent Sears and wife Margaret, a daughter, Angie McChesney and husband Thomas, a brother, Gary Sears, a sister, Connie Wehar, and four grandchildren, Kristopher and Victoria Sears, and Michaela and Josey McChesney.

Funeral service will be 1 pm Tuesday, July 29, 2025. Burial will be in the Hume Cemetery. Online condolences can be left at www.schneiderfunerals.com.

Stink erupts following store renovation in Butler

 

This is the scene outside the Butler Walmart on West Fort Scott street as indoor plumbing (below) remains out of service due to an issue related to what may be a collapsed sewer line.

"It's a shame that the store looks so nice now but the odor has been unbearable" said an employee (name withheld) "As far as I can tell we've had at least two plumbing companies here and the last one said it appears we have a severely blocked or crushed sewer pipe."

Mid America Live made a visit to the store prior to closing of the restrooms and spoke with a very frustrated maintenance person who said "I've done all I can do. We need the pro's to figure this one out" as the problems appeared shortly after storewide renovation was completed a few weeks back.

We've been unable to reach the store manager for comment however, several employees stated that steps are being taken to correct the issue as soon as possible.

Get your tickets now for the Linn County Fair & Rodeo!

 

Grocery Grab set for this evening in Butler

 

Grocery Grab pick up tonight in Butler!

4:30-6:30 PM Lyon's Soccer Complex just south of the Aquatic Center.

5 Blackhawks earn FFA degrees

 Congratulations to the 2025 American FFA Degree recipients. These students have achieved the one of the highest accomplishment an FFA member can obtain. The American Degrees are awarded in Indianapolis this October.

Why, exactly?

 

Recently vandals struck at Butler's north Sensory park, tagging this marker as well as playground equipment, restrooms and more. City crews spent the better part of a day cleaning up the mess- if anyone has information or sees similar activity, please contact the Butler police department at 660-679-6131.

Mix of Summer weather later today

 

This graphic best describes the forecast today:

GREEN is a flood advisory. Showers & storms kick off this late afternoon / evening, and could put down a widespread 1-2" of rainfall, but there will be some pockets and swaths that could see 4"+ easily.

ORANGE is a heat advisory, because the cold front will stall and not chill the whole area today. Expect warmer temps to the south & east.

-Greg@660weather

Little Apple news

 

July 23, 2025

The Community Blood Center (CBC) is the primary provider of blood and blood components to 70 plus hospitals and medical centers in the Greater Kansas City Region.  CBC will conduct a life-saving blood drive on Friday, July 25 from 2:00-6:00 p.m. at Ellett Memorial Hospital, 610 N. Ohio St, Appleton City. Donors are encouraged to make an appointment by visiting savealifenow.org/group and using Group Code: EG2B but walk in donors are welcome.  For additional details, contact Julie Grubb at 660-476-5242 or Kayla Orear at 660-476-5214.

AC Christian Church will have their Vacation Bible School 6:00-8:30 p.m. July 28-30.  This year’s theme is “God’s Backyard Bible Camp”. All ages are welcome.

The Depot Taco Salad Lunch will be Wednesday, August 6, 2025 serving 11:00-1:00. The salad with toppings, drinks and a variety of homemade cakes all for $10, will be served at the historic MKT Railroad Depot. You may dine in or carry out.  All proceeds are used by the Appleton City Museum for the maintenance of the Depot, Historic WH Appleton Library, Moore School and Museum.

The AC Fall City Wide Garage Sale dates have been set for October 3 and 4. Information regarding permits will be posted at a later date. 

Growing In Grace Community Center, 117 W 4th St, ACMO is sponsoring a community dinner featuring food and music August 2.  Fried chicken, mashed potatoes & gravy, green beans, corn, homemade bread, salad bar and dessert will be served 3:00-6:00 p.m. Music will be provided by Freedom Tabernacle Church from Osceola and James Damon from 4:00-6:00 p.m. They will also have a kids’ fun day August 16 with food, games, cotton, candy, slushies and more, including balloon twister at 4:00 p.m. Both events are donation only.

The 2025 EMH Community Block Party will be Saturday, September 27, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.  If you are interested in vendor space, please contact Kim Raybourn at 660-476-5236.  

The Appleton City Ministerial Alliance meets throughout the year providing community services and opportunities for the area churches to gather together for worship.  Additionally, the ACMA helps people through the region in a variety of ways.  In 2023 the ACMA founded the Tony Reynolds Memorial Scholarship, which is a $1000 scholarship awarded locally to an area student pursuing continuing education post-high school.  Some in the community have asked about the ability to make donations directly towards the scholarship fund that are not used in other ACMA endeavors.  At any time, you may make donations towards the ACMA and we encourage you to do so.  You may make donations at any of our community meetings, or feel free to contact one of the ministers serving in the ACMA for more information.  

The Appleton City Carousel is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday 4:00-7:00 p.m. until Labor Days weekend. The Carousel added the 35th state of Connecticut to their Visitors Map. States left to visit the Carousel are AK, AL, AZ, DE, HI, ID, IN, LA, ND, NJ, MT, PA, RI, SC, WY and Washington DC.  Six Countries have visited Belize, Denmark, Haiti, Italy, S. Korea and Spain. If anyone in the area has visitors from an unvisited state or country, Linda Lampkin is willing to meet them in off hours. Leave a message at 660-492-0131.

The Appleton City Museum is open Friday afternoons 1:30-4:30 through September 26, with other times by chance or appointment.  Contact Susan at 660-464-0288.  New exhibits have been added including stained glass window from the original First Baptist Church and a beautiful framed mirror from Motts Food Locker in Rockville.  Bring your family to learn about Appleton City’s history

MU Extension is committed to serving the needs of Missouri’s communities through relevant, research-based education and resources. They are conducting a statewide needs assessment to ensure our programs continue to address the most important issues facing individuals, families, businesses, and communities across the state. They invite you to participate in a brief survey to share your insights, experiences and priorities. Your input will help guide MU Extension’s strategic planning and program development for the coming years. Help make sure your county is well represented! Take the survey at http://muext.us/statesurvey The survey should take approximately 10 minutes to complete, and your responses will be kept confidential. They appreciate your time and valuable perspective while working together to strengthen Missouri’s future.

“The Little Apple” was started by the A. C. Economic Development as way of informing residents of news and events sponsored by area businesses and organizations.  Items of a clearly personal nature, such as birthdays, anniversaries, awards (not group sponsored), personal sales and the like are not accepted for publication. Items may be edited for accuracy, grammar or space restrictions. Please email articles for “The Little Apple” to dcp81@embarqmail.com by Tuesday evenings or bring them to Dr. Payton’s office to be included in that week’s edition. To receive "The Little Apple" free by e-mail, or to be removed from the email list, send your e-mail address to dcp81@embarqmail.com If you have changed your email address, please send the current address, so the list can be updated.

Ellett Memorial Hospital Appleton City offers outpatient specialist services for July and August, 2025. Call 660-476-2111 for appointments. July 23 - Ortho-Dr. Gray,  July 25 – Dermatology – Dylan Timmerman, PA,   July 29– Rheumatology-Dr. John,  July 31-Neurology- Dr.- Shoaib,  Aug 1 – Ortho-Noble, FNP,  Aug 6 – Upper GI, Colonoscopy- Dr. Namin, Aug 7– OB/GYN, Dr. Kallberg, Aug 8 - Ortho-Dr. Gray, Aug 12– Rheumatology-Dr. John,  Aug 20 – Upper GI, Colonoscopy-Dr. Namin, Aug 21– Podiatry- Dr. Pace, Aug 22 – Dermatology-Timmerman, PA, Aug 26 - Rheumatology-Dr. John,  Aug 27 - Ortho-Dr. Gray, Aug 27 – Ophthalmology, Dr. Soni,  Aug 28 - Neurology- Dr. Shoaib

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

July 25     Blood Drive at Ellett Memorial Hospital 2:00-6:00 p.m.

July 28-30     AC Christian Church Vacation Bible School 6:00-8:30 p.m.