Friday, April 24, 2026

Reminder: Cruise Night tonight at Butler Sonic

Get your classic car, truck or motorcycle out of the garage and plan on heading to Butler Sonic for the Butler Chamber of Commerce Cruise Night beginning at 5 pm. See you there!
.


#MidAmericaLive

Celebrating Juanita White’s 10 Years of Volunteer Service


Bates County Memorial Hospital is proud to recognize Juanita White as she retires after more than 10 years of dedicated volunteer service through the BCMH Auxiliary. Juanita dedicated 2,600 hours to serving BCMH as a volunteer. She will be recognized for her service at the Auxiliary Recognition Banquet on April 30.

In recent years, you could find Juanita in the gift shop, cheerfully ready to help, and at times wearing one of her many lovely hats. She was dependable and often volunteered for extra shifts, generously helping whenever needed.

Juanita kept clippings and certificates from her volunteer years spanning back to 2013, reflecting how much her service meant to her. She is proud of what she was able to contribute, and she was pleased to be part of the world of healthcare in her volunteer role. She said earlier experiences helped shape her interest, starting as a "Pink Girl" at the age of 15 at her local hospital near Winfield, Kansas, where Juanita grew up, and for a short time, as a certified nurse at the hospital in Warrensburg while her husband was stationed there.

She and her husband, Joe, raised four children and made their home in Butler beginning in 1972. Some time after her husband passed in 2005, Juanita was invited to volunteer at Bates County Memorial Hospital, and she was happy to accept. Her generosity of spirit extended to other community efforts, including volunteering for the local thrift store.

Asking Juanita how she felt about her time volunteering, she said, "Beautiful. It feels good when you know you're wanted. I loved it."

Last year, Juanita stepped back from volunteer service. She liked the work, and she did not want to retire, but health issues kept her from being able to drive.

Though we miss seeing Juanita’s cheerful smile and signature hats in our halls, we are deeply grateful for the kindness and dedication she shared with our patients, staff, and visitors. We wish her all the best.



#MidAmericaLive

Thursday, April 23, 2026

Butler man facing charges of sexual abuse and misconduct

According to information on file with the Bates County Circuit Court, Corey Snead, 48, of Butler is facing charges related to two cases regarding events that allegedly occurred in December of 2025 and in March of 2026. 

Case 26BS-CR00146:
1. Sexual Abuse - 2nd Degree { Misdemeanor A RSMo: 566.101 }
2. Assault- 4th Degree - Pursuant To Subdivision (6) { Misdemeanor C RSMo: 565.056 }
3. Sexual Misconduct - 1st Degree - 1st Offense { Misdemeanor B RSMo: 566.093 }

Case 26BS-CR00147:
1. Sexual Abuse - 2nd Degree { Misdemeanor A RSMo: 566.101 }
2. Assault- 4th Degree - Pursuant To Subdivision (6) { Misdemeanor C RSMo: 565.056 }
3. Sexual Misconduct - 1st Degree - 1st Offense { Misdemeanor B RSMo: 566.093 }

Case 25BS-CR00338 (probation violation):
1. Assault- 4th Degree - Pursuant To Subdivision (6) { Misdemeanor C RSMo: 565.056 } 

Snead voluntarily surrendered to authorities on April 23, 2026 and posted a $3,000.00 cash bond at the Bates County Sheriff's Office. 

At present, the defendant is awaiting further instruction of the court.


 

Butler city council welcomes Jon Dudley

During the regular meeting of the Butler city council on April 21st, election results were confirmed which was followed by swearing in incumbent council members as well as newcomer Jon Dudley representing Ward 3. Mayor Jim Henry presented a plaque to outgoing Ward 3 councilwoman Fawn Alkire for her dedication and service to the city of Butler.

Getting down to business, guest and local businessman Lee McClain had previously discussed zoning for his property at 102 West street as it was previously zoned as residential and it needed to be updated accordingly, according to the planning and zoning commission. He was advised it should be updated to industrial, however Councilman Denny Rich stated that a commercial rating would suffice. He went on to say that he had concerns that an industrial rating could cause issues in the future and wanted to keep it at commercial (C3). 

The debate continued and during which, it was discovered there may be a conflict regarding maps and information regarding the property; Mayor Henry suggested tabling the discussion until verification can be made.

It was reported that the council is continuing its advocacy of the Student Advisory Committee and plans are in the works including a pickleball tournament, basketball tournament and more. Details to be revealed in coming weeks.

The Airport Commission will soon be looking for someone to mow, and the search continues for an airport manager. It looks as though hangar rent may go up $25, which is still a great deal as other nearby airports are charging more. 

Councilman Tim Young commented that based on recent storms it is becoming increasingly obvious that stormwater management needs to be a priority. Mayor Henry stated that a stormwater study is incoming and it may hold the key to solving some of the issues.

Work will begin on replacing the culvert on Fort Scott street by the scout park. Since Fort Scott will be closed for awhile, it was decided earlier to postpone the work until school is out to avoid hampering bus traffic. Barring weather or other delays, the replacement should easily be done before school starts up this Fall. Low bid on the project was $223,207.54 which was budgeted.

A discuss was held regarding the Trail of Memories which runs through South Park and the hospital property in Butler. The project was originally maintained by a private group however, now is the responsibility of the city. Parks and Rec director Scott Bitner was given permission to order 10 trees to be placed along the trail that may be purchased for $300 by citizens to honor their loved ones. The purchase includes a plaque in their honor and benches with plaques will be available in the future as well. More details coming soon.

Permission was given to Trey Douty for the annual Show of Wheels car show to be held in the parking lot of the sheriff's facility at Orange and Lee streets. The show will extend south to including the RJ's property and permission to close Lee street for the day was given as no homes or driveways will be affected.

The city is in need of a new bucket truck and permission was granted to purchase a new one as prices aren't going down anytime soon. The old truck will get a rehab and serve as a service unit to pull the tree limb chipper. The new truck will either be purchased or most likely leased; details on pricing/plan to be revealed soon.

The Green Space on the southeast corner of the Butler square is nearing completion. Work to be done includes installation of a water hydrant and application of a special coating on the murals to help preserve them. Also, some cleanup work needs to be done behind and around the murals to conceal the framework.

It was also noted that an announcement regarding the hiring of a new city administrator is "coming soon" and Mid America Live will provide details as soon as they become available.

Remember, the Butler city council meets on the first and third Tuesdays, 7 pm at city hall and the public is highly encouraged to attend.






#MidAmericaLive

Weather clearing by tomorrow night


So for the first time in. . . a while. . . FRIDAY NIGHT LOOKS CLEAR!! In eastern KS and western MO.
So how much rain might be on ground Friday morning?
Widespread +/- one inch.
Here's what we're looking for rain-wise in tonight's storms.
-Greg@660weather


#MidAmericaLive

Obituary - David T. Staniec

David T. Staniec was born December 23, 1952 passed away April 15th, 2026 at Prairie Wind Senior Living in Berryton, KS at the age of 73.

He is survived by his 3 children, David (Cande) Staniec, Michael Staniec, Stephanie (Tony) Boyden, 8 Grandchildren and 4 Great-Grandchildren. Per David's request he has been cremated.  No services are planned at this time.  Arrangements:  Schneider Funeral Home and Crematory, Mound City Chapel.  


#MidAmericaLive

Obituary - Bruce Jeffries

Bruce Wayne Jeffries, 71, passed away on Monday, April 20, 2026, at his home in Sheldon, MO, following a lengthy illness. Bruce was born July 24, 1954, in Nevada, MO, to John Martin and Florence “Irene” (Richards) Jeffries. On June 6, 1992, he was united in marriage to Karen L. Nordyke in Sheldon, and she survives of the home.

Bruce was raised in Nevada and attended Nevada High School. He served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War from 1971-1972. Following his return to Nevada he worked in landscaping, at May’s Flowers, Ramey’s Deli, on an oil rig in Oklahoma, modeling in Hawaii, and he drove a truck for more than 50 years retiring from Johnson Baker in 2021. His memberships included Eagles Aerie #3770, and the American Legion in Stockton.

In addition to his wife Karen, he is survived by a son, David Dickson, Nevada, MO; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Billy Jeffries (Nancy), Nevada, and Steve Jeffries, Nevada; two sisters, Sheila Griffin, Nevada, and Cindy Vandenburg (Mike), Richards; mother-in-law, Mary Buckner, Sheldon; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Amanda Eldridge; father-in-law, Raymond Buckner; and a nephew, Justin Byram.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada with Dr. Jerod Lamb officiating. Interment will follow with Military Funeral Honors in Olive Branch Cemetery in Milo, MO. The family will receive friends from 5-7:00 p.m. on Thursday evening at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.

Memorials are suggested to the Family c/o Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada.



#MidAmericaLive

Obituary - Maxon Scott Senkevech

Maxon Scott Senkevech, 52, Deerfield, MO, passed away on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Nevada Regional Medical Center. Scott was born May 22, 1973, in Nevada to Maxon Ray and Judith (Shields) Senkevech. He married Angela Dawn Senkevech in June of 2017, and she survives.

     Scott was raised in Deerfield and graduated from Nevada High School Class of 1991. Throughout his life, Scott farmed and raised cattle with his dad and brother.  In addition, he was a heavy equipment operator and ran an excavator for T.J. Farrell. Scott enjoyed hunting deer, turkey, and mushrooms.

     In addition to Angie, he is survived by his children, Jordawn Leer (Payton), Bronaugh, and Kori Davis (Lauren), Nevada; four grandchildren, Greyson, Kyler, Tayten, and Scottie; one brother, Justin Senkevech (Bridgett), Bronaugh; and two nieces, Icysis, and Laken. Also surviving is Tom and Connie Leatherman, Deerfield, and J.R. Cooper, Richards. He is preceded in death by his parents; uncle, Tom Senkevech; and a sister, Raeann Cannifax.

     Visitation will be held from 1-2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada. Graveside services will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Shiloh Cemetery in Barton County with Pastor Roger Beach officiating.

     Memorials are suggested in his name to Vernon County Cancer Relief c/o Ferry Funeral Home.



#MidAmericaLive

Search news