Smoky skies & cooler temps

Stolen tractor recovered near Vernon county line

Earlier,  the Bates County Sheriff’s Office took a report of a stolen John Deere Tractor northeast of Rich Hill and today the victim reported that the tractor may be in Vernon County on Albert Road just south of the Vernon County/Bates County line. Deputies from Bates County and Vernon County responded to the area and found the tractor on the side of the road.

Other responding Bates County Deputies coming into the area from the north observed a male walking away from the road where the tractor was located. The Deputy made contact with the subject and subsequently connected the male to the stolen tractor.

Since the tractor was recovered in Vernon County and the subject was taken into custody inside Vernon County the male was taken to the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office for the investigation.

Both Sheriff Anderson and Sheriff Buehler agree that cases like this are the reason that great relationships with each other is a must. “We both serve our citizens and career criminals don’t pay attention to county lines” says Sheriff Anderson. “I agree and we are proud to work together for the common goal of serving our communities” says Sheriff Buelher.

Kip Matthew presented with Award of Excellence in Springfield

 

Congratulations to Harrisonville High School choir director Kip Matthew

At the Missouri Choral Directors Association Conference on July 24th in Springfield, MO Kip Matthew of Harrisonville schools was honored with the Jeff Sandquist Presidential Award of Excellence.

MCDA President Kevin McBeth selected Kip as this year’s recipient in recognition of his outstanding leadership, dedication, and musical excellence.

Once again, congrats!

Obituary - Karen Ensor

Karen Ruth (Easter) Ensor, 86, of Lexington, Missouri passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2025, at Meyer Care Center in Higginsville, Missouri.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Thursday, August 7, 2025, at Lexington United Methodist Church, 1211 S. Business Hwy 13, Lexington, Missouri 64067. A memorial service will follow immediately. A private family burial will take place at a later date at Memory Gardens Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the C.A.R-Cancer Assistant Relief. Memories of Karen and condolences may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Walker-Nadler-Fuller Funeral Home, 1720 South Street, Lexington, MO 64067, 660-259-2245.

Karen was born on July 30, 1939, in Kansas to Clarence “Frank” and Margaret (Dexter) Easter. In 1957, she graduated from Butler High School. Karen worked for over 27 years as a secretary for Lexington High School and Middle School. Karen was united in marriage on December 6, 1957, to Everette Dale Ensor in Butler, Missouri. He preceded her in death on May 16, 2013. Karen was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan. She was an active member of the Presbyterian Church. Along with spending time with family and friends, Karen had a green thumb for gardening and tendering to her flowers.

Karen is survived by one son, Marty (Cheryl) Ensor of Lexington, MO five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, one daughter-in-law, Julie Ensor of Blue Springs, MO and many relatives and friends.

Along with both her parents and husband, Karen was preceded in death by Wade Ensor.

A needed boost: Hume schools awarded $176k grant

Just as rural schools in Missouri could certainly use a much needed economic boost, Hume R-VIII schools proudly announced this week that they will be receiving just over $176,000 in funding from the Patterson Family Foundation, who extends the legacy of Neal and Jeanne Patterson in “Working together to help rural communities thrive,” serving several rural counties across Kansas and western Missouri. 

"We're thrilled" said school officials in the announcement who went on to say that the money will bring exciting upgrades to classrooms including over 20 new technologies, hands-on learning tools, and more real-world educational experiences for all grade levels.

"These investments will help equip our students with essential 21st-century skills and set them up for long-term success. Upgrades and improvements will begin before the new school year starts" and added special thanks to Hume School Counseling and all others who helped make this possible.

More updates forthcoming, in the meantime find more information about the program here https://pattersonfamilyfoundation.org/

Obituary - Gene Dale Chewning

 Gene Dale Chewning, age 71, Rich Hill, Missouri passed away Monday July 28, 2025. 

A gathering to celebrate Gene's life will be held from 6 to 7 pm Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at the Heuser Funeral Home in Rich Hill.  A memorial service will begin at 7 pm.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association.  Online condolences can be left at www.heuserfunerals.com.  

Autumn like temps for awhile

Check out this week's news-Review/Shopper classifieds!

 Hearing Aid Sale!! Please let us know you heard about Advantage Hearing Aid Center, Inc, from Mid America Shopper and you will receive a  4th year warranty on all new prescription, hearing aids purchased in July /August!!! (self pay only) Call us to set an appointment at 816-925-4575, or stop by and make an appointment at 803 A S Commercial Street, Harrisonville, MO "Are you hearing the best you can?" 4b30

FOR SELL - old stamp collection, also have several Victrola's, records, and old radios. 816-405-4201 2b30

HOUSE FOR SALE -  south Joplin area 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage 816-405-4201 2b30

Hot! Cooling ties help, booth 41 at Mini Menage, 11 west Dakota, Butler. Also refurbished mini-laptops, desktop computers, Windows 10, SSD, memory upgrade. Service 660-200-5026 leave message z

Extra income. No nonsense. Just local folks doing good business — 660-492-8758. z

Side hustle made simple — call 660-492-8758. Local, flexible, and worth it! z

ATTENTION BATES COUNTY CHURCHES!!!- We are compiling a Church Directory for Bates County Missouri . If your church would like to be included, please contact us to ensure your church is included .

Contact Jennifer @ 660-227-3852 or email us at midshopper@gmail.com z

2022  Ford Escape Titanium Hybrid white exterior ebony interior 33,440 miles. Call Zink Motors at 660-476-2626 or visit zinkmotors.com 1b23

2018 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD LT $14,995, Summit White Call Zink Motors today at 660-476-2626 or visit zinkmotors.com  1b6

2022 Ford Bronco outer bans exterior interior ebony 39,383 Call Zink Motors 660-476-2626 or visit zink Motors.com 1b6

2019 FORD FUSION SEL $16,995 6-Speed Automatic with Paddle Shifters, Front Wheel Drive Visit zinkmotors.com to view their entire inventory or call 660-476-2626 1b6

2003 THUNDERBIRD PREMIUM $25,995 Convertible, 5-Speed, Rear Wheel Drive Torch Red this car is a must see, Call today and schedule your test drive 660-476-2626  1b6

2018 FORD FUSION SPORT $21,995 All Wheel Drive, V6 Cylinder Call Zink Motors today 660-476-2626 or see their full inventory at zinkmotors.com  1b6

ZINK MOTORS YOUR #1 FORD DEALER FOR OVER 100 YEARS. FOR SALES AND SERVICE CALL 660-476-2626 OR VISIT ZINKMOTORS.COM  1b6

2024 MUSTANG ECOBOOST PREMIUM $31,495. 10-Speed Select Shift Automatic, Rear Wheel Drive. See this vehicle and more at ZINKMOTORS.COM or call 660-476-2626  1b6

2001 FORD SUPER DUTY F-350 SRW LARIAT,  Oxford White, $10,495. Check it out at Zink Motor Company of Appleton City or call 660-476-2626  1b6

2012 FORD F-150 XLT, Oxford White, $14,895. Call Zink Motor Company 660-476-2626 for more details. 1b6

Zink Motor Company one of the nation's oldest operating dealers Zink Motors, Your authorized Ford Service Center in Appleton City for Sales or Service call 660-476-2626 1b6

NEED SERVICE FOR YOUR FORD BUT NEED A PICK UP AND DROP OFF SERVICE?? ZINK MOTORS OFFERS OPTIONS THAT WORK FOR YOU CALL FOR DETAILS 660-476-2626  1b6

Zink Motor Company makes it easy to secure affordable financing or lease terms with your purchase call today for more information 660-476-2626 or visit zinkmotors.com 1b6

LOOKING FOR A PARTICULAR MAKE YEAR OR FORD MODEL VISIT ZINKMOTORS.COM THEY’VE DONE THE RESEARCH FOR YOU CALL TODAY 660-476-2626 1b6

Shopping for your first car?? Zink Motor Company has helped Generations of drivers for over 100 years call Zink Motor Company 660-476-2626 or visit zinkmotors.com view their entire inventory 1b6

Find your way into a ditch? I can help you find a way out! Call Sam 816-738-4635 Mid America Tow  z

NEED A TOW? Let me know! Call Sam 816-738-4635 Mid America Tow. z

FOR RENT - 1 BEDROOM APARTMENT in Nevada. Pool, rec room, nicely furnished or unfurnished. Free Dish Network $250 security deposit. No pets! Starting at $380. www.lakepointenevada.com 417-667-2633. z

ZINK MOTOR COMPANY OF APPLETON CITY YOUR #1 FORD DEALER FOR OVER 100 YEARS VISIT TODAY 200 E 4thSt. Appleton City call 660-476-2626 or see them online at Zinkmotor.com Z

JAM Land Management - Skid steer work, Dirt and gravel work, clean pastures, brush cutting, food plots and campsites. Insured! For more information call 816-267-0069. z

WILLIE WIREDHAND is a wee little guy! Find him hiding somewhere in the News-Shopper and the first person who tells us where he’s hiding wins a prize courtesy of Osage Valley Electric Cooperative. Email midshopper@gmail.com, or come by our office at 5 W. Dakota in Butler with your answer. Last week’s winner was Laura Fisher, Willie was on page 12 in the Don’s Tire Ad. z

LOOKING FOR FARMLAND - to rent in southern Bates County and north Vernon County.  We have heavy equipment to do any projects you need done. For more information call Dustin Dirks at 660-200-5367 z

ATTENTION - Have a secret family recipe you want to share?  Submit it along with $10 to Mid America Live, P.O. Box 426, Butler, MO 64730 or call 913-219-4900 and it will be published in the News-Review. z

BUY, SELL, TRADE: FARM TRACTORS AND MACHINERY, PARTS FOR SALE.  AUSTIN FARMS SALVAGE, BUTLER, MO 660-679-4080, MON - FRI 8:30AM - 5PM SAT 9-12. CLOSED SUNDAY. z 

Christ Centered Recovery - Mondays: 6 pm, 1st Baptist Church, 300 Delaware St. Butler, Mo  John Manning: 816-654-2567. z (Wants title and days in bold)

ON THE GO JOHNS -  Portable Toilet Rentals.  Brent Welston 660-200-5420.  129 SE County Road 775, Butler, MO 2-4Z

NEW WASHERS $599 with full factory warranty.  LeNeve’s, west side of the Butler square 660-679-4881 z

NEW STOVES $799 with full factory warranty.  LeNeve’s, west side of the Butler square 660-679-4881 z

NEW DISHWASHERS $499 with full factory warranty.  LeNeve’s, west side of the Butler square 660-679-4881 z

NEW DRYERS $499 with full factory warranty.  LeNeve’s, west side of the Butler square 660-679-4881 z

NO KIDDING your ad with the News-Review and Mid America Live can reach 150,000 pairs of eyes each week! Call 660-492-8758 or email midshopper@gmail.com 5 W. Dakota St., Butler MO z

NEW REFRIGERATORS starting at $799 with full factory warranty.  LeNeve’s, west side of the Butler square 660-679-4881 z

Is your doctor booked up? WE DO X-RAYS.  Come see us! Butler Urgent Medicine east side of the Butler square 660-386-7008  z

YOU READ THIS! Classified ads work and won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Call 660-492-8758 or come by 5 W. Dakota St., Butler MO 64730 z

WANTING -  cars, pick-ups, vans, trucks, wrecked running or not. Will pick up 660-643-7320 z

WE’VE GOT WHAT YOU NEED from farm supplies to feed. Appleton City Feed Service 420 Poplar St, Appleton City, MO (660) 476-0144 z

People read the classifieds like they read the news… your ad WILL be seen! Call 913-219-4900 or come by 5 W. Dakota St in Butler to place yours today! z

NATURE’S SUNSHINE vitamins and more at Sandy’s Herb Shop in Butler. Forget all the rest, we have the best! Come check our selection. 507 S. Orange, Butler Mo 660-679-5060 z

YOUR CLASSIFIED AD HERE will also be seen online by thousands of eyes each week. Classifieds work! Call to place yours today 660-492-8758  z

B-I-N-G-O! Come and play Monday nights @ 7 pm, Optimist building, Adrian Mo. z

NEW STOVES starting at $799 at LeNeve’s, west side of the Butler square 660-679-4881 z

SOME THINK that you only get a good deal if you go to the city. Stop by LeNeve’s, west side of the Butler square 660-679-4881 and you’ll see that shopping local will save you big! z

WE HAVE some used appliances in stock which means big savings! LeNeves, west side of the Butler square 660-679-4881 z

Bush Hog Rotary Mowers sales and service. Schell City T&T Schell City Mo. 417-432-3101 Store hours M-F 8am-5pm z

PATTERSON’S HOME IMPROVEMENT - Family owned, serving Bates County for over 25 years. Call 816-769-7229 for all of your home improvement needs, Siding, Windows, Roofing, Doors, Room Additions and more. z 

DEEMS STUMP REMOVAL serving Bates County and surrounding areas since 1962. Free estimates and reasonable rates, quality work. Tom Deems 660-679-5322 or Daniel Deems 816-807-5141 z

Wedding venue on 25 acres in Drexel, MO. Rock Wall Ranch venue/cabins/camping find us on Facebook or call 214-403-0155 z

Affordable car insurance call 660-679-6178 z

Affordable life insurance 660-679-6178 z

SCHUMAN’S SIDING - WINDOWS  REMODEL - REPAIR  SERVING BUTLER AND SURROUNDING AREAS SINCE 1985 CALL CLINT 660-200-5484 OR 660-679-3364 z

EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING also deck staining and power washing. Experienced, reasonable and respectful. Call or text anytime 660-679-1308 Brent z

YOU READ THIS! Classified advertising works. Call 913-219-4900 or come by 5 W Dakota St. in Butler to put YOUR ad here! z

Got a leak? We’ll take a peek. Melton Plumbing Services 660-679-0762 z

We’ve got you covered. Simon’s Steel Roofs 660-424-9205 z

NO ONE outbrats us. McBee’s General Store in Butler and Amsterdam z

In the deer world, it’s car season. Patriot Auto Body 660-679-0110 z

IF you like it clean, we’ll leave it clean! Cliff’s Carpet Cleaning 660-679-5657 z

Smith’s Automotive Repair 660-679-0800 z

Family Care Clinics of Bates County Memorial Hospital, See our Display Ad for more details. 660-200-3627 z

Patriot Auto Body & Collision. 660-679-0110 z

Local wines from Luna Umbra on the Butler Square 1 W. Dakota z

Got Junk???  Gator Gone Junk Removal, 816-609-7165 z

Countywide Disposal 660-679-0717 z

Butler Urgent Medicine - Care on the Square, 660-386-7008 z

THE MID AMERICA NEWS REVIEW IS A WEEKLY PUBLICATION AND OUR DEADLINE IS NOON ON MONDAYS. ncz

DO YOU WANT THE WEEKLY NEWS-REVIEW IN YOUR EMAIL?  JUST SEND  US YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS TO midshopper@gmail.com. ncz

Don’t run to the city! We have new washers, dryers, refrigerators, stoves and freezer VERY competitively priced. LeNeve’s TV & Appliance 4 N. Delaware Butler Mo 660-679-4881 z

Butler Rotary treated to special guests today

 

Two Butler high school students, Breanna Werner and Kalie Kerkmaz attended the Cooperative Youth Conference & Leadership Experience this summer in Jefferson City and shared their experiences today at the regular weekly Rotary meeting.

The Rotary expresses thanks for sharing their insights to this wonderful program.

Obituary - Charlotte Becker

Charlotte Becker, 73 of Butler, Missouri passed away Monday, July 28, 2025 at home surrounded by the love of her husband and her daughter. A visitation will be held Saturday, August 2, 2025 from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm at Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler (660-679-0009). Funeral services will follow at 1:00 pm Saturday, also at the funeral home. Burial will take place in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association. Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

Charlotte Sue Becker was born on June 29th, 1952 in Norwood, Missouri, the daughter of Leon and Angie Smith Dennis.


Charlotte was full of strength, a giving heart, thoughtfulness, love for God and love for others. She was the true glue of her family, they meant so much to her. She was very knowledgeable in genealogy and family history, and also helped in hosting family reunions. Her favorite times were with her loved ones.

Charlotte took college courses in life with hopes of a degree in psychology, during the time her IQ was noticed to be very high and she was accepted by MENSA, the world's oldest and most famous high IQ society. She believed in keeping herself busy, what she loved to do most is crafting. Everything from cake decorating, scrapbooking, painting, sewing and embroidery. Even more than doing crafts, she loved to teach them. She has taught so many. Right up until she got sick, she was teaching painting classes to elderly women. She loved to sing, and she had a beautiful voice. If it wasn't singing, she was humming a favorite tune. Charlotte also gave many years of service working in the church, she had a strong faith.

Charlotte was the best planner, hostess, the true heart of everything and the one to come to for anything. She always had an embrace, advice, and most always the answers. She will be deeply missed by all who love her and kept forever in our hearts.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents Leon and Angie Dennis, her younger brothers Edwin Dennis and Terry Dennis. She is survived by her loving husband John C. Becker of Butler, Missouri, son Tracy Parks of Coleman, Florida, son Roger Parks of Newport, Tennessee, daughter Janet Wason and husband James of Butler, Missouri, Andrew Becker of Kansas City, Kansas, Chris Becker of Kansas City, Kansas. She is also survived by fourteen grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren that she adored.

Added to that is three great-grandchildren on the way that she was so excited to meet.

Lunch program donors make special visit to Butler

Recently the Butler Christian Ministerial Alliance received a generous $2000.00 donation from the Catholic Charities, Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph and then 'paid it forward' to the Carpenters Cup to help defray the cost of the local summer lunch program.  

Shown here are Sam Womack (left) Director of Children and Family Services and Kara Kirk (back) Senior Program Manager, both of Catholic Charities Kansas City/St. Joseph; In front is Megan Rostollan and son Ethan, both who which make the daily trek to the Butler gazebo to hand out lunches with Ethan usually in costume as seen here.

Over 100 sack lunches are handed out daily and this donation has given the program a much needed boost as costs soar ever higher. According to  Becky Clift of the Carpenter's Cup "We pack each lunch as a complete meal that includes a dessert and condiments, and it all adds up real quick."

She said it's not unusual to spend $700 per shopping trip while being as thrifty as possible. "Even though, we are blessed by this and all donations we receive. No one should miss a good, free meal and that's our goal." 

Clift went on to express thanks to the Butler Christian Ministerial Alliance, Sonic, McDonalds, Burger King, Pizza Hut, Walmart, U.S. Solutions car dealership, cash donors and volunteers- as without it being a group/community effort, the program could not exist in the first place.

While the boost from Catholic Charities greatly helps, it won't last long, according to Clift and anyone who would like to make any type of tax deductible donation should stop by the Carpenter's Cup in Butler or give them a call at 660-679-3333.

Little Apple News

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.

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.

Missouri’s back-to-school sales tax holiday is August 1-3. Items exempt from sales tax include: clothing with a taxable value of $100 or less per item, up to $50 per purchase of school supplies, up to $350 of computer software, personal computers or related devices up to $1,500 and graphing calculators up to $150.

The Knights of Columbus will have their monthly pancake and sausage breakfast at the Knight’s Hall in Montrose on Sunday, August 10 from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. Treat your family to a hot breakfast you don’t have to cook or clean up. A free will donation will be greatly appreciated.

The next Second Wednesday, Meet Me On Main Shop and Stroll will be 4:00-7:00 p.m., August 13. You can congratulate Jina’s Junque on its 2nd anniversary. Participating businesses include Jina’s Junque, 3 Wishes, 4th Street Fika, AC Library, Cork & Keg, A.C. T.N.R. and other vendors.

There will be an Appleton City Kids Day in Forest Park, 12:00-8:00 p.m. August 23. Activities include water slides, bounce house, carnival games, pony rides and K-9 demonstration. Delicious food and treats will be available for purchase. Kids of all ages are welcome.

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 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.

Visit the Missouri Electric Coop building at the Missouri and see the Appleton City businesses that were featured in their Rural Missouri magazine articles; Zink Motor Ford Museum and the Appleton City Carousel.

The Appleton City Carousel is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday 4:00-7:00 p.m. until Labor Days weekend. 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 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

Aug 1-3 Missouri tax free weekend
Aug 2 Growing In Grace Community Center community dinner 3:00-6:00 p.m.
Aug 6 Depot Taco Salad Lunch 11:00-1:00

Kudos for a job well done

 

BIG SMILES Myla Nieder received special recognition at the Ozark Empire Fair as Top Exhibitor for keeping her stall clean and organized while attending the fair in Springfield Mo. over the weekend. Myla is the daughter of Brandon and Carli Nieder of Amoret, Mo.

T-storms possible again this afternoon

A knack for getting the right shot

 

Congratulations to Vera Phillips

We’re proud to announce that Vera was awarded Third Premium at the Miami County Fair for her stunning photography entry in the Highlight category. Her winning photo captured a Sheriff’s Office patrol car parked at the 8th Street Bridge, showcasing a unique blend of local scenery and community presence.

Great job, Vera — your eye for detail and storytelling through photography truly shines!

Courtesy Miami County Sheriff's Office

An honor indeed

 

The Cass County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard presented our nation’s colors on July 28th at the Royals game. The CCSO is grateful to have honored our country twice this year at The K!

Henry County Sheriff’s Office to Host Community Awareness Event on Opioid Crisis

Another text scam going around

 If you receive a text claiming to be from the Department of Motor Vehicles, Department of Transportation, or Department of Revenue, requesting payment for fines or penalties related to traffic tickets or toll charges, THIS IS A SCAM. These departments will not send requests for payment via text.

Courtesy Bates County Sheriff's Office

Obituary - Roy Dunlap

Roy Rogers Dunlap, who was born on August 31, 1961, in Plainview, Texas, passed away peacefully at home in Ottawa, Kansas, surrounded by his loving family on June 13, 2025. He had been a resident of Ottawa since 1969, where he contributed significantly to both his community and family.

Roy dedicated twenty-two years of his life as a final assembly operator at Ottawa Truck, showcasing his exceptional skills and work ethic. After his extensive career there, he continued to serve his community by working as a clerk at Price Chopper grocery store, where he was known for his kind demeanor and commitment to customer service.

A proud Navy veteran, Roy served his country for six years, an experience that shaped much of his character and instilled in him values of dedication and integrity. He was a graduate of Ottawa High School, Class of 1981, which marked the beginning of his journey in this vibrant community.

Outside of his professional life, Roy found joy in pursuing hobbies that brought him fulfillment. He was passionate about lifting weights and cherished riding his Harley motorcycle, activities that not only kept him active but also allowed him to connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Roy is survived by his son, Dakota Dunlap; his sister, Ethel Brady; his brother, Kenny Dunlap; and his two grandchildren, who will carry forth his legacy of love and strength. He is preceded in death by his parents, Hubbard and Dorothy (Wyatt) Dunlap; brother Tommy Dunlap; and sister Helen Sheler, whose memories he honored throughout his life.

Roy's inurnment service will take place on August 1, 2025, at Highland Cemetery in Ottawa, Kansas, with the ceremony starting at 10:00 AM.

His many contributions to his family and the community will remain etched in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be greatly missed, but his spirit will live on in the lives he touched.

July 23 report from the Bates County Commission

July 23, 2025 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. Northern Commissioner John Gray was absent.

Jim spent some time on the phone talking individually with Representative Sherri Gallick, Presiding Commissioner Bob Huston in Cass County and Presiding Commissioner Steve Daleske in Benton County on Senate Bill 3.
Work in progress
1. Policy Regarding Indigent Cremations given 8/25/2023 nothing since April.
2. Rattlesnake Hill Roads 11/06/2023 evening meeting 6/11/25 still gaining signatures. As of 7/3/25, ten people have signed and one resident is declaring he will not sign. All need to sign to move the drives to roads.
3. Policy Regarding Computer, E-Mail, Devices and Social Media given nothing since 2/14/2024.
4. Opioid Settlement Resolution 10/2/2024 (Judge Highley).
5. EEZ Board 3/26/2025 Proposal Fee with scope of work received $12,000.00 fixed fee 6/11/25.