Bates County Assessor mailing notices this week

 Change notices were mailed out this week by the Assessor notifying citizens that their assessed value raised and if their taxes are going to raise. We have received several phone calls today asking why their values raised. You will need to contact the Assessor 660-679-3157 to ask questions regarding your valuation and to have an informal hearing with him. If the Assessor did not resolve your problem you can then contact our office at 660-679-3371 to make an appointment to go in front of the Board of Equalization that will be held on July 21st. You must make your appointment by July 14th.

Obituary - Robert Lyle (Bob) Bauer

Robert Lyle (Bob) Bauer, eldest son of Walter Bauer and Ruth Evelyn Propeck, was born April 27, 1949, and passed away June 16, 2025.

Bob grew up in Montrose, Missouri, and attended St. Mary’s Elementary School and Montrose High School. After high school, he attended Central Missouri State University and was a walk-on with the track team. After college, he married Ann Tindall on May 23, 1970, at Immaculate Conception Church in Montrose, Missouri. From this union, two daughters were born, Amy and Rebecca. Bob’s employment included the Katy Railroad in Montrose, Missouri, the drilling crew traveling for Peabody Coal Mine, and Peabody Power Mine in Montrose, Missouri. In 1981, the family relocated to Platte City, Missouri, where Bob began working at Kansas City Power & Light at the Iatan Generating Station in Weston, Missouri. In 1989, Bob’s loving wife, Ann, passed due to a long battle with cancer. Eighteen years later, Bob married his friend and co-worker, Cathy Green. Bob finished his career of 27 years at Kansas City Power & Light in 2007.

Bob’s special interests included spending time with family, classic cars, racing, the Kansas City Royals, the Kansas City Chiefs, traveling, fishing, boating, and camping. Bob never met a stranger, only a friend he’d never met before. He showed kindness to all people.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Evelyn; and his wife, Ann.

He is survived by his wife, Cathy, of the home; his daughters: Amy Dymond (Neil) and grandchildren Colin and Cooper of Kansas City, Missouri, and Rebecca Bauer of New Market, Missouri; sister Mary Harris (Bill) of Montrose, Missouri; brother Rick Bauer (Joanne) of Montrose, Missouri; brother Wally Bauer (Nancy) of Urich, Missouri; and many nephews, nieces, and cousins.

The family suggests memorial donations be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Montrose, Missouri. Memorials may also be left at Hill & Son Funeral Home in Appleton City, Missouri.

Obituary - Dorothy Dean Burke

Dorothy Dean Burke age 92 of Harrisonville, Missouri departed this life Thursday, June 19, 2025 at her home in Harrisonville, Missouri. 

Cremation with a Celebration of Life Visitation will be held 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 27, 2025 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri. 

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Croix Hospice and send in care to Dickey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, Missouri 64701. 

A complete obituary will be posted once that information becomes available. 

Obituary - Tammy Sue Foster

Tammy Sue Foster was born September 25, 1964 and departed this life Monday, June 16, 2025 at her home in Garden City, Missouri at the age of 60.

Tammy graduated from Archie High School and soon after married Blaine Foster on June 14, 1987, celebrating 38 years of marriage together. Tammy was a stay at home mom for their two children, Jordan and Megan Foster. She loved to spend time at the lake with her family and friends, and especially enjoyed watching her children and grandchildren grow.

She is preceded in death by her parents-in-law Marvin and Kay Foster and her nephew JJ. She is survived by her husband Blaine Foster, parents Ronnie and Libbie Longacre, daughter Megan Foster, son Jordan Foster (Kesha Peek), brother Kevin Longacre, sister Kelly (Daniel) Meissen, brother-in-law Troy Foster, Jerry (Georgann) Foster, Grandchildren Liberty, Justice, and Jordan Foster, granddog Dolly Foster, four nephews, four nieces, and several great nieces and nephews.

Recognition given to unseen heroes

 

Adrian Fire Chief Gary Dizney made a special presentation this week to the crew at the Bates County Sheriff's Office 911 Dispatch Center in recognition of their ongoing dedication and professional service.

"We couldn't do what we do without you" said Dizney who went on to say that group has an added level of understanding when it comes to prompt attention to matters, especially in dire situations, and when multiple agencies are involved.

"Despite the worst of circumstances, everything goes as smoothly as possible, every time. Thank you so much."

As many could imagine, when the phone rings in a 911 call center, someone needs help right now and time is of the essence. First responders will often request coordination with neighboring agencies, utility companies, and sometimes dispatch has to deal with unusual situations. To which, according to Dizney, BCSO 911 dispatch comes shining through every time.

"I hope this plaque shows how much the Adrian community appreciates you and we can't say enough about what good you do. Thanks again."

In the few minutes Dizney was making the presentation,  yes, some 911 calls came into the center. They were handled promptly and the group was able to take a moment to pose for the photo above.

Toasty warm weekend ahead

Butler sidewalk project getting closer to reality

From the Butler city council meeting June17

A representative of economics advisor Marks-Nelson was present for the work session held just before that council meeting and discussed incentives for the Hertzog Meat Company regarding their new retail store to be located in Butler (former Walmart building). The package  may include Chapter 100 bonds as well as a sales tax rebate program; a meeting will be set up with the Hertzog's to discuss further.

Scott Mallatt reported that the planning commission has continued discussions regarding container homes in Butler and how the ordinance will be written regarding them. Their recommendation will likely be presented to the council very soon.

It was revealed that the lighting project is complete at the airport and the FAA has officially approved the lighting as well. A problem that urgently needs to be addressed is getting a fuel tank back into service so that locals and visitors can fill up on 100 low lead as needed. Another future goal will to be to install a credit card machine to simplify purchases as well. Soon, the airport commission will be touring the Clinton, Mo airport terminal to get ideas for a terminal that will be built here hopefully with construction to begin by next Fall.

Once again, the old Butler high school is in the spotlight as "decisions need to be made soon" regarding where to go from here. The most immediate need would be a new roof which will likely require the replacement of some of the support structure and costs are expected to be quite high. Where to pull money to do so is in question as well as is it worth repairing. Some painful decisions lie ahead for the council on this matter.

The council passed a resolution to move ahead with TAP grant requirements for the sidewalk project which will run about $570,000.00, leaving the city to kick in $114,00.00 to satisfy their portion of the 80/20 grant. Additional support for the project has come from MoDot as well as the Bates County Commissioners, Rep. Dane Diehl and the Bates County Sheriff's Office. "We're moving in the right direction" said City Administrator Corey Snead who added that getting the railroad on board is part of the next step as the current rail overpass will need to be reworked to insure safe passage for foot traffic.

Notice to Butler residents, fireworks may be shot off 10 am to 10 pm on July 3rd and all day on the 4th. 

 Permission was granted for the Butler Homecoming parade set for October 3rd.

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

P.E.O Sisterhood promotes education for women

 

The Missouri State Chapter of the P.E.O Sisterhood held its 131st convention June 6-8, 2025. More than 300 representatives of P.E.O chapters across Missouri attended including delegate Gina Richardson, President of the HV Butler chapter. 

United by the theme Interlaced Lives of P.E.O., the convention attendees met and discussed several education and philanthropic topics and projects, Karen Kurtz, Chapter EZ, Bolivar, Mo, presided over the meeting and Selynn Barbour, Chapter LO in Camdenton served as general chair of the convention. Convention was held at the Wyndham Executive Center in Columbia, Mo.

Claudia Jervey of Chapter A in Unionville, Mo, was installed as the new president of the Missouri State Chapter during the convention. The theme for the 2025-2026 year will be P.E.O Leads the Way in Women's Education.

The P.E.O Sisterhood is a philanthropic  educational organization were women celebrate the advancement of women; educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans and the stewardship of Cottey College in Nevada, Mo; and motivate each other to achieve their highest aspirations.. There are just over 5,500 chapters in the United States and Canada with over 190,000 members.

The purposes of P.E.O are educational and philanthropic, accomplished through projects on the local, state and international levels. The six international projects include:

-P.E.O Educational Loan Fund, a revolving loan fund program
-P.E.O International Peace Scholarship that funds graduate study for foreign women
-Cottey College in Nevada, Mo, a four-year liberal arts college for women
-P.E.O Program for Continuing Education, grant assistance for women to resume educational studies after a break
-P.E.O. Scholar awards, grants for women of the U.S. and Canada pursuing advanced degrees or are engaged in advanced study and research
-P.E.O. STAR Scholarship, a scholarship for high school seniors to attend college

In addition, Missouri chapters provide scholarships for women to attend Cottey College and fund the Missouri P.E.O. Outreach Fund, a state project to assist those either aged and infirm or needy and infirm.

Bates County Memorial Hospital: Understanding hernias

 Pain or pressure in your groin or abdomen? Here’s what to do if you think it’s a hernia.

When you think of a hernia, you might picture a visible bulge in your belly or groin. But not all hernias are easy to spot. Some people have one but may not see a lump or feel pain right away. In fact, some hernias only show up during certain movements or when a doctor checks for one. That’s why it’s important to know the signs of hernias, as well as what to do if you suspect you have one.

Signs You May Have a Hernia

A hernia happens when part of your body, like your intestines, pushes through a weak spot in your muscles. This can happen in different areas, such as in your groin or near your belly button or a scar from surgery. While many hernias do cause a visible lump, not all of them do. Some people only feel a strange pressure or discomfort.

Here are some signs to watch for:

• A feeling of heaviness or pressure in your belly or groin.
• Pain that gets worse when you lift something, cough or bend over.
• A burning or aching feeling near the area.
• A lump or bulge that comes and goes (although it may never be noticeable)
• Nausea, vomiting or stomach pain.

Sometimes, hernias don’t cause pain at all. A small one may not bother you much at first. But over time, it can grow and become more serious. In rare cases, a hernia can cut off blood flow to nearby tissue, which is a medical emergency. If you ever have sudden pain, fever or a lump that feels firm and won’t go away, get medical help right away.

What to Do If You Think You Have a Hernia

If you notice anything unusual, even if you're not sure if it’s due to a hernia, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor. Hernias won’t heal on their own, and ignoring them can lead to bigger problems later.

To check for a hernia, your doctor will perform a physical exam. They might ask you to stand, cough or strain so they can feel for a hernia. If it’s not clear, they may order an ultrasound, CT scan or another type of imaging so they can see things more clearly.

Treatment for Hernias

If it is determined that you have a hernia, treatment depends on the type and size of the hernia and how much it’s bothering you. The different types of hernias include:

• Inguinal hernias – these are the most common, especially in men, and occur in the groin
•   Umbilical    hernias – as the name implies, these happen around the belly button
• Hiatal hernias – these occur higher in the abdomen, allowing part of the stomach to move into the chest
• Incisional hernias – these can occur after surgery, near where an incision was made

If the hernia is small and not causing pain, your doctor may suggest just watching it for now. You’ll be told to avoid heavy lifting or straining, which can make it worse. But if it’s painful or getting larger, surgery, which is the only treatment option, is usually recommended. Most hernia surgeries are quick and safe. You may go home the same day and will usually feel better within a few days. Surgeons can often do the repair using tiny tools and a camera (laparoscopic surgery), although in some cases, a small incision may be a better option.

Content courtesy of Bates County Memorial Hospital. If you’re dealing with a hernia or wondering whether surgery is right for you, talk with General Surgeon at BCMH. Call 660-200-7134  to schedule a consultation.

Copyright 2025 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® Heart Healthy Recipes® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Clear, hot and dry for now

 

It stays in charge (even though it slides east late weekend) long enough to stave off precipitation - and severe weather chances through most if not all of next week.

A cold front tries to approach from the NW early next week, seen here with some showers & small t-storms off to our northwest.

But as of now, they don't win the battle with surface ridging - the forecast ahead looks predominantly dry.

-Greg@660weather

Bear Necessities June edition

 Click images to enlarge, save or print

Meetings regarding solar projects in Bates County ongoing

June 16, 2025 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner John Gray and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

Mark Grimm with GilmoreBell called in for the scheduled meeting on Solar Taxation and Chapter 100. They have worked with several counties and solar companies. The 2 solar companies, Clearway (650 MW) and NextEra (510 MW) are ready to work on the abatement agreement with the County. Mark states working with both companies at the same time is equitable and transparent to everyone involved. The solar companies will be paying all fees associated with the attorneys. The taxation process uses the wattage the plant will be producing at the start up for the multiplier on payment with a multiplier for COLA yearly. Though the wattage decreases over time the payments will be multiplied by the startup wattage throughout the life of the plant. The biggest concern is to make sure the County is covered in revenue if the plant is sold to a utility company. Decommissioning agreements ensure proper reclamation, typically bonded or insured. In Chapter 100 process the company gives the title over to the county for a period which makes the plant tax free. Then it is leased back to the company for payments in lieu of taxes (PILT or PILOT). The county has no financial liability or responsibility in the process of the plant.
Ann Evans and Rick Laning with the New Home Township Board came in at a late scheduled meeting to discuss the shortage of funds they are experiencing. They had recently purchased a use road grader out right. They were hoping to find a way to either receive more funds or possibly find a grant for more funds. The Commission explained the CART funds and how they have been using an old formula for distribution which no one has ever figured out what it was. They are working on using a new method which will combine the original and additional amounts plus a bit more to each township in one payment. Jim will check with Kaysinger Basin to see if there are any grants they know of that the Townships can apply.

Appleton City HS trap team "shoots well' in competition

 

The Appleton City High School Trap Shooting Team competed Saturday at the Missouri High School Trap Shooting Tournament at Linn Creek. The team shot well. They ended their season placing third in the conference as the only 1A school among 5A schools. Congratulations to Kallie Gilkey for receiving a medal for the third high female in the conference. Pictured left to right; Coach Alex Hardin, Kallie Gilkey, Hunter Hearting, Eli Hearting, Drake Brownsberger, Katie Gilkey, Kie Hellwig, and Coach Matt Stephan. Special thank you to the Osage Bottoms Delta Water Fowl Chapter for sponsoring our team. Thank you as well to the Brownsberger Family and Tyler Piepmeier for all of their contributions and support this season.

Appleton City former student takes teaching position

 

We are so excited to bring yet another announcement of a former graduate coming to work with us full-time! Please take a moment to welcome our new Physical Education Teacher for the 2025-2026 school year, Coleton Smith! Coleton will also be coaching with us next year. We are excited for the knowledge he brings to us and the experiences it will create for our students!

Archie Police Department seeks public input

 Share your thoughts on Archie's Safety Action Plan (SAP)!

The SAP will focus on traffic safety strategies to reduce crashes and protect all those who use Archie roadways. Your input is critical!

Tell us about your experiences and ideas by taking this brief survey:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/C5CNMDB

Read more about the SAP at: https://cityofarchie.org/archie-safety-action-plan

Obituary - Shirley Irene Winter

Shirley Irene (Goddard) Winter, 84, Nevada, MO, passed away on June 19, 2025 at Medicalodges of Fort Scott.  She was born on September 17, 1940, near Eve, MO to Leslie and Maud (Brouhard) Goddard.  She married her childhood sweetheart, Joe Winter, in 1960 and he preceded her in death on July 4, 2023.

        As a young girl, her family moved a lot due to her dad working for farmers.  They moved to where the work was.  Her family finally settled in Richards, MO where she attended school and played on the basketball team.  She graduated from Richards High School Class of 1958.

        As a teen, Shirley stayed with her grandmother, Amanda, and worked at Galvin’s Drug Store in Ft. Scott at the soda/ice cream counter.   Shirley told of being one of the telephone switchboard operators in Richards.  She later worked at Key’s Work Clothes in Nevada in the pressing department.  Then when Walmart first came to town, Shirley was hired and worked there until her retirement.  She loved to travel,  attending many Gas Engine and Antique Tractor Shows all over the United States with Joe.

      Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Joe; her parents; a son, Jack; her siblings; and a son-in-law, Ron Wolf.  Survivors include her son,  Joe Lee,  of the home; her daughter, Glenda Wolf,  Deerfield, MO; grandchildren, Casey Fogle (John), Amanda Ast (Kerry), and Natalie Kitsmiller (J.T.); great-grandchildren, Michael Fogle, Keeton Ast, Annabelle Ast, Lucas Kitsmiller, and Colt Kitsmiller.

       The family will receive friends from 10-11:00 a.m. on Monday June 23, 2025, at Ferry Funereal Home in Nevada.  Graveside services will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Stevens Cemetery, west of  Bronaugh, MO.

    Those who wish may contribute to the family in care of Ferry Funeral Home.

Henry County Sheriff’s Office Investigates Fatal Shooting – Suspect in Custody

The Henry County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate a fatal shooting that occurred on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, in the Finey area, resulting in the death of a local resident.

At approximately 11:33 a.m., deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 700 block of SE 1251 Private Road after receiving a report that Jody James, age 54, of Deepwater, had been fatally shot by her significant other, Harold D. James, age 75, also of Deepwater. James fled the scene in a silver Ford pickup. Immediate coordination was made with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office.

Thanks to excellent interagency cooperation, Benton County Deputies located and safely apprehended James in the Berry Bend area at approximately 11:57 a.m. A firearm, believed to have been used in the shooting, was later recovered from an associate of James.

Upon arrival at the Finey residence, Henry County deputies secured the scene and located Jody James deceased inside the home. A comprehensive investigation followed, including the execution of search warrants, detailed forensic documentation, and interviews with multiple witnesses.

“This was a tragic situation, but our deputies responded swiftly, worked calmly under pressure, and ensured that a suspect was taken into custody without further harm,” said Sheriff Aaron Brown. “The teamwork between Henry and Benton County deputies was outstanding. I am proud of everyone involved and grateful for their professionalism. We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Harold D. James was initially held on a 24-hour investigative hold. Today, the Henry County Prosecutor’s Office, led by Prosecutor Gray, formally charged James with Murder in the First Degree and Armed Criminal Action. He is currently being held with no bond.

Couple pleads guilty in child sex abuse case

The most heinous case of child sex abuse ever investigated by the Bates County Sheriff’s Office has come to an end.  The trial for Melodie Thexton 41 and 38 year-old Kenneth Thexton was set to begin next week here in Bates County, but yesterday, the Thexton’s shackled and dressed in orange appeared before Circuit Judge Brandon Baker and agreed to plead guilty as their now 20 year old victim looked on, effectively ending an odyssey of child sexual abuse and neglect.  Bates County Sheriff Chad Anderson and Detective Amy Fishbaugh also attended the plea hearing. 

In 2019, reports were received at the Bates County Sheriff’s Office regarding the crime from the Camden County Children’s Center in Osage Beach, Missouri.   A 14 year old girl had disclosed she had been abused at a mobile home in rural Drexel, Missouri.  The investigation led by Detective Amy Fishbaugh,  revealed that Kenneth and Melodie Thexton had been abusing Melodie Thexton’s 3 children for years.   Upon completion of the investigation, Bates County Prosecutor Hugh C. Jenkins charged the pair with 25 counts of child sexual abuse and child endangerment.  The Thexton’s have been in custody since the charges were filed in August of 2019.  The State was represented by Bates County Prosecutor Hugh C. Jenkins and Cody Johnson, Bates County Assistant Prosecutor.

Initial reports of abuse were investigated by the Kansas City Police Department and the Jackson County Children’s Division in November of 2018.  The Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office has said they were holding their charges in abeyance until the Bates County Case is disposed of.

Just how long Kenneth and Melodie Thexton will be imprisoned will be decided by Circuit Judge Brandon Baker.  Date for sentencing has been set for 2:00 pm,  August 15, 2025 at the Bates County Courthouse.  

See original Mid America Live story here https://batescountynewswire.blogspot.com/2025/05/couple-set-to-face-trial-on-48-counts.html

BCSO nabs suspect following high speed chase

Adrian, MO – June 18, 2025 – The Bates County Sheriff's Office successfully apprehended a suspect on June 16, 2025, following a high-speed pursuit and an act of vandalism at a local business.

At approximately 1700hrs, A Detective with the Bates County Sheriff's Office was approached by a witness at Casey’s General Store in Adrian, Missouri. The witness reported observing an individual, later identified as Bradley Jones, operating a motorcycle at excessive speeds and in a dangerous manner on I-49, including passing vehicles on the shoulder and between lanes.

The Detective then observed Mr. Jones strike a gas pump screen at the store with his fist. When verbally ordered to stop and approach, Mr. Jones refused to comply and instead fled the scene on his motorcycle.

A pursuit ensued, during which Mr. Jones displayed extreme disregard for public safety. He failed to stop at multiple stop signs, reached speeds of approximately 85 to 100 miles per hour, weaved dangerously through traffic, and exited and re-entered I-49 multiple times. He continued to operate his motorcycle at speeds well over 100 miles per hour and passed vehicles unsafely.

Deputies later located Mr. Jones on County Road 2763. Despite deputies activating emergency lights and sirens, Mr. Jones again failed to yield, instead turning around, driving through a residential driveway, and continuing westbound on E Highway at approximately 100 miles per hour, once again passing dangerously between vehicles.

The pursuit concluded when Mr. Jones's motorcycle either ran out of fuel or became inoperable, at which point he was taken into custody.

Upon returning to Casey’s General Store, the Detective confirmed that the gas pump screen had been broken, rendering the pump inoperable. The store manager estimated the replacement cost for the screen alone to be between $1,000.00 and $1,200.00, not including labor or other expenses.

Sheriff Anderson commends the vigilance of the witness and the swift, professional actions of all deputies involved in apprehending the suspect and ensuring public safety. The Sheriff's Office was assisted by the Adrian Police Department.

Jones was Charged with Felony Aggravated Fleeing and Eluding and Felony Property Damage. Bond was set at $14,500 Cash Only. Jones remains in custody of the Bates County Jail.

Felony assault on Father's Day results in arrest

BUTLER, MO – June 18, 2025 – On Fathers Day, Sunday, June 15, 2025, at approximately 1920hrs, Deputies with the Bates County Sheriff's Office was dispatched to a residence on North East County Road 10003 in Butler, Missouri, following a report of a physical domestic disturbance involving a barricaded subject with firearms. Additional command staff and tactical teams member were notified from home and began to respond to the residence.

Upon arrival, deputies were advised by the reporting party that her husband had allegedly choked her and threatened her with a firearm. She managed to escape the residence and sought help from a neighbor. The suspect, identified as Jeremy D. Borland, was reported to be intoxicated and had initially barricaded himself inside a detached shop on the property, where multiple firearms were present.

Deputies located Mr. Borland in the driveway with his father, who had successfully de-escalated the situation and encouraged him to exit the shop. Upon contact, Mr. Borland was detained for officer safety.

Further investigation revealed that during an argument, Mr. Borland allegedly assaulted the victim, including choking her, and threatened her life and the lives of the four juvenile children (ages 5, 8, 14, and 16) who were present in the home at the time. The victim was able to disarm Mr. Borland of a loaded 9mm pistol and flee the scene with the children. A visible injury was observed on the victim's neck. The firearm was secured and taken into evidence by deputies.

Jeremy D. Borland was arrested and transported to the Bates County Detention Center. Borland was charged with;

Felony Domestic Assault

Felony Unlawful Use of a Weapon

Additional charges of Child Endangerment are expected to be charged by the Bates County Prosecutor’s Office. Bond on his curent charges was set at $25,000 Cash Only. Borland remains in custody of the Bates County Jail.

The Bates County Sheriff's Office is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents. We remind the public that domestic violence is a serious crime, and resources are available for victims and families. If you or someone you knows needs assistance with finding help or support for domestic violance or addition please contact our Commuity Resourse Office at 660-464-4523. Our Community Resource Liaison Sarah Eager is available to help.