Bates County Court News

St v Michael Hatley- speeding, fine $120.50

St v Adayanci Hernandez- speeding, fine $80.50

St v Nathania Rodriguez- fail to display plates, fine $50.50

St v Austen Gnad- speeding, fine $120.50

St v Caitlynn Dodson- speeding, fine $120.50

St v Victor Cancinos-Lopez- speeding, fine $80.50

City of Butler v Logan Mathews- expired plates, fine $50.50

City of Butler v Amy Thornton- expired plates, fine $50.50

City of Butler v Lex Kennedy- defective equipment, fine $50.50

City of Butler v Lex Kennedy- seatbelt violation, fine $10.00

City of Butler v John Taylor- seatbelt violation, fine $10.00

City of Butler v Kayla Grossholz- no proof of insurance, fine $65.50

City of Butler v Parker Rash- fail to register vehicle, fine $50.50

City of Butler v Kristy Villa- misc moving violation, finr $60.50

City of Butler v Sarah Thornton- expired plates, fine $50.50

City of Butler v Juana Arita- fail to stop at stop sign, fine $60.50

City of Butler v Lex Kennedy- no proof of insurance, fine $100.00

City of Butler v Parker Rash- defective equipment, fine $50.50

City of Butler v Amy Shaffer- expired plates, fine $50.50

City of Butler v Lex Kennedy- misc moving violation, fine $60.00

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Bates County real estate transfers and marriage licenses

Zellmer, Virginia Elois to Wainscott Family Trust 2-07-2013 Str 12-40-32 //Se+

Brush Creek Partners to Lubin, Kenneth A Charitable Trust 07-31-2026 Lt 3 Bl 25 Amoret, Original Town Of+

Brush Creek Partners to WPDA Lt 3 Bl 25 Amoret, Original Town Of+

Brush Creek Partners to Missouri & Minnesota Postal Holdings, LLC Lt 3 Bl 25 Amoret, Original Town Of+

Palace Office Building to Monopoly Acquisitions Lt 1 Bl 2 Butler, Original Town Of

Berry, Karen L to Duane, James Str 23-40-31 //Ne

Black, Alan D to Black, Alan D (Co-Trustee) Str 16-40-33 //Ne+

Olive, Edna I to Olive Trust 07-13-2012 Str 15-40-31 //Se

Kelce Investments to Fountain City Renewal Str 22-42-31 //Se

Corum, Richard H to Irwin, Erika Lt 52 Swaidner's Addn+

Koehn, Roland E to Koehn, Roland & Janice Trust 10-23-2026 Lt 43 Adrian, Original Town Of+

Fountain City Renewal LLC to Davidson Independent Contracting LLC Str 22-42-31 //Se

Hester, Rita to Dry Creek Construction Str 18-42-33 //Se

Dry Creek Construction to Detherage, Hayli Devonne Str 18-42-33 //Se

Eastland Farms to Dirks, Dustin Joe Str 24-38-32

Eastland Farms to Mumma, Gerald R Str 24-38-32

Moore, Donna L to Nissen, Jimmy Bl 3 Montgomery's First Addn

Smith, James M to Smith, Tamera S Str 5-39-29+

Lair-Bame, Virgil K to Lair-Bame, Virgil K Str 15-42-29 //Se

Lowe, Lena L to Lowe, Lena L. Trust 10-13-2026 Str 8-38-33 //Se

Tenholder, Mark E. to Tenholder, Susan E. Str 7-41-30 //Se

Tarver, John & Rebecca Trust 09-04-2018 to Myrtle, Aerial  Str 35-41-29 //Se

Smith, James M & Tamera S Trust 05-08-2002 to Smith, Tamera S Str 5-39-29+

Nitsche Family Trust 6-10-2009 to Smarr, Dalton Joseph Lt 8 Bl 9 Gilbert Heights+

Lowe Family Trust 07-25-2000 to Lowe, Lena L Str 8-38-33 //Se

Olive Trust 07-13-2012 to L Hardin Properties LLC Str 15-40-31 //Se

Marriage license

Fleischer, Joshua Paul and Silver, Megan Lynn

Hastie, Gage Marshall and Shaffer, Madyson Raylee

Clevenger, Christopher Scott and Host, Stacie Marie

Sparks, Tony Ray and Johnston Mckellips, Judith Elaine

Bourquin, Micah Daniel and Hendrix, Ragan Lynn

Smith, Dean Edward and Toews, Annette Joy

Thompson, Bryan Jordan and Walters, Ciara Renee'

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Big week for Drexel FFA in Osceola

This week, four Drexel FFA members traveled to Osceola for Area Fall Speaking. Rayleigh Tracy, Marissa Hoover, Claire Fink, and Kennedi Hettinger all gave a 6-8 minute speech over various agriculture topics sponsored by MO organizations that advocate for agriculture.

Congratulations to Kennedi Hettinger who placed 2nd in MO Pork Producers. She will move onto Districts! Congratulations to all participants who put in the work and dedication! It is never easy giving a speech, and these girls gave it their all plus some.


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Special representative visits Ellett Memorial Hospital

Ellett Memorial Hospital was honored to welcome Aaron Yuratovich, Counsel for U.S. Senator Josh Hawley, during his recent visit to west-central Missouri. Mr. Yuratovich toured the hospital, met with staff, and spent time learning about the unique challenges and opportunities facing rural healthcare in our region.

During the visit, hospital representatives shared how Ellett Memorial Hospital continues to serve as a vital healthcare resource for Appleton City, St. Clair County, and surrounding communities. Discussions focused on the importance of preserving local access to healthcare, supporting rural hospitals, and ensuring that patients can receive high-quality care close to home.

"We were grateful for the opportunity to showcase our hospital and the dedicated team members who serve our community every day," said Laura Smith, BSN, RN, CEO of Ellett Memorial Hospital. "Rural hospitals are often much more than healthcare facilities. We are neighbors caring for neighbors, and we play an important role in the health and well-being of our communities."

Hospital staff appreciated the opportunity to share both the successes and challenges of delivering healthcare in a rural setting. The visit provided a meaningful opportunity to discuss the needs of local patients, the importance of sustaining rural healthcare facilities and services, and the commitment of Ellett Memorial Hospital to remain a trusted healthcare provider for the region.

Ellett Memorial Hospital extends its sincere thanks to Mr. Yuratovich for taking the time to visit Appleton City, tour the facility, and learn more about the people and communities the hospital serves. His interest in rural healthcare and willingness to engage directly with local providers is greatly appreciated.

Courtesy Ellett Memorial Hospital

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Obituary - Esther Dahn

Esther Elizabeth Smolenski Dahn, 94, passed away peacefully on Wednesday November 4, 2026, in her home in Harrisonville, surrounded by her loving family. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Harrisonville, MO, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville, MO.

Esther was born on November 19, 1931, to Stanley and Albina Butrym Smolenski in McConnellsville, New York. She was a 1948 graduate of Camden Central High School and married William Edward Dahn (Bill) on June 5, 1954, in Camden, New York. Esther and Bill lovingly welcomed and raised five children who blessed them with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Although Esther worked various jobs throughout her lifetime, including beloved babysitter, school secretary at Harrisonville High School, and contract specialist at General Services Administration, her passion, her priority, and her focus was always her faith and her family. She was the ultimate nurturing caregiver and a devout parishioner of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.

Esther was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bill; her granddaughter, Tanya; her great-grandson, Joshua; her three sisters: Jennie Kimball, Albina Fox, and Thresa Bowman; and three brothers: Stanley, Zygmont and Walter Smolenski. She is survived by three sons: Peter Dahn (Lynelle), David Dahn (Dee), and Timothy Dahn (Maria); two daughters, Mary Michele Hawkins (Randy) and Julie Drew (Patrick); 12 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and countless nieces, nephews, and friends.

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Adrian girls Cross Country take the podium at State

At the State cross country meet on Friday, the Lady Blackhawks locked up sixth place with two medalists on the podium. Libby Nebocat, senior, claimed 16th place and Junior Kenzie Coones placed 21st. Libby set a new school record and she is the highest placing girl in school history. Coach Rylee Mabe said the team ran very well today.

The girls began training in the summer and worked hard this season. It showed in their personal bests and school records. Coach Mabe is proud of this team and is grateful for all the support. He said, "Thank you to the parents and community for all the support. It is truly special here."

The 2026 State Girls Cross Country Team: Leah Ford and Libby Nebocat, seniors; Avery Rodgers, Emma Smith, Mya Glass, Kenzie Coones, juniors; and Alayna Patterson, freshman. Congratulations!

Courtesy Adrian News Leader

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Obituary - Betty Ann (Hickman) Reece

Betty Ann (Hickman) Reece, 82, of Harrisonville, Missouri, a beloved mother, grandmother, wife, and friend, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease at Menorah Medical Center in Overland Park, Kansas. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Harrisonville, MO. Interment in Orient Cemetery in Harrisonville. Contributions may be made to The Parkinson's Foundation, The Parkinson's Foundation/ or sent to the Atkinson Funeral Home, 600 West Wall, Harrisonville, MO 64701.

Born on October 26, 1944, in Kansas City, KS, Betty was the beloved daughter of Charles (Bud) and Katie (Wyman) Hickman. Betty spent her formative years in Kansas City before moving to Harrisonville, MO, where she made lasting memories and lifelong friendships. In 1962, Betty graduated from high school and soon began a beautiful love story with her high school sweetheart, Richard "Dick" Reece. Engaged that summer at the Mugs-Up Root Beer at Truman Corners, they were united in marriage on December 15 of the same year at Harrisonville First Baptist Church, officiated by Brother Charles Sutton. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Cynthia, and sons, David and Stuart, expanding their family and deepening their love.

Betty embraced her role as a homemaker with enthusiasm, dedicating herself to her children's educational journeys as a volunteer. She later became a health room aide at the local elementary school before finding her calling as the administrative assistant for the high school guidance counselors, a role that brought her immense joy until her retirement from Devry, where she served as the executive administrative assistant to the dean.

In retirement, Betty's spirit of service only intensified. She volunteered with the Cass Regional Hospital auxiliary as a patient advocate and earned the position of president, further extending her caring presence. As she transitioned to Golden Years, she continued her advocacy as the resident council president, enriching the lives of those around her.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, as she was deeply involved in the Harrisonville First Baptist Church, fostering connections through nursery care, Vacation Bible School, and singing in the church choir. Betty's harmonious spirit resonated through special music alongside friends, Katrine Cummins and Kathy Purkey, particularly during the cherished Christmas Cantata. Her unwavering faith nurtured her resilience as she navigated life's challenges.

Betty's love extended to her grandchildren, who fondly remember her spoiling them and sharing heartfelt conversations. Her passion for reading transcended generations-no one could read "Fox in Socks" quite like Grandma. In her nurturing hands, she lovingly crafted scrapbooks chronicling her grandchildren's milestones, preserving memories that will be treasured for years to come.

A lover of celebrations, Betty transformed birthdays into unforgettable festivals, complete with homemade cakes and joy-filled gatherings. The magic of Christmas was particularly close to her heart-decorating, giving, and receiving gifts brought her immense joy. She often found pleasure in the little things, like hosting cookie decorating parties that filled her home with laughter and love.

Betty was a warrior in every sense. She approached life with grace and determination, surviving challenges with a positive spirit that left a lasting impact on all who knew her. Colleagues, friends, and caregivers alike described her as a "sweet, precious woman," highlighting her genuine interest in their lives.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents; her son, David Reece; her sister, Mary Lou Minich Davis; and her brothers, John Hickman and James Hickman. She is survived by her beloved husband, Richard "Dick" Reece, of the home; her daughter, Cynthia Reece, of Kansas City, MO; her son, Stuart (Rebekah) Reece, of Lee's Summit, MO; her 4 grandchildren: Michael Reece (fiancee, Moustapha), Julia Reece Leslie (Logan), Elizabeth Reece, and Katie Reece; her sister, Phyllis Davis, of Stamford, Texas; and many extended friends and family. Her legacy of sweetness, compassion, and generosity will live on in the hearts of many.

Betty Reece-sweet, caring, generous, nurturing-will be profoundly missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

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Obituary - Yuriy N. Lyashevskiy

Yuriy N. Lyashevskiy, 60, of Harrisonville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at the KC Hospice House in Kansas City, MO. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, November 7, 2026, with a visitation starting at 11:00 AM, at the Atkinson Funeral Home in Harrisonville. Interment to follow at Wills Cemetery in Peculiar, MO.

A complete obituary will be added when it becomes available.

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