Robert (Bob) Hromadnik, 85 of Osawatomie, KS

Robert (Bob) Hromadnik, 85, of Osawatomie, KS passed away June 16, 2015 at Louisburg Healthcare and Rehabilitation in Louisburg, KS. A private graveside service will be held with military honors in Wilson, KS. Services are under the direction of the Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler (660-679-0009) Messages of condolence may be left at http://www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com

He is survived by his beloved sister, Mary F. Walker (McMullen) of Paola, KS. Several nephews, James J. Roswurm, Franklin J. McMullen, Anthony E. McMullen, Martin E. McMullen, Cody (Robert) McMullen, nieces Mada L. McMullen and Mida S. McMullen and many other loving family and friends.

Robert (Bob) Hromadnik, 85 of Osawatomie, KS

Burn Outs for Brice

BATES COUNTY, Mo – The 2nd annual “burn outs” for Brice car show will be held on Saturday, June 20th from 10am – 3pm at RJays Speed Shop, 202 S. Old Highway 71 in Adrian (south of Casey’s).

A full day of competition, food, music and fun will be enjoyed by all with all proceeds going to help defray the medical expenses of Brice Eidson, who has been battling a rare form of leukemia.


Register the day of the competition and the registration fee is the donation of your choice. A cash prize of $300 will be awarded to the winner of the completion.

Stop by and enjoy a full, fun day of burn outs and celebration of Brice Eidson’s attitude of “losing is not an option”. For more information call 816-291-4575.

Burn Outs for Brice

MLB cancels more than 60 million votes for the All-Star Game

by Chad Hunsaker, fm92 Sports

Between 60 and 65 million All-Star ballots have been canceled because of concerns about voting. Biggest concern some of the votes have been a non-human voting. MLB has said all along that they have safeguards in place to keep fraudulent voting from happening. Bob Bowman, CEO of MLB said the votes were voided due to the possibility of fraudulent voting.

Controversy over All-Star voting has been blowing up for weeks after eight Kansas City Royals players took the lead to make the starting lineup for the American League. Eight Royals have been tabbed for starting spots in recent days and many Kansas City position players were leading from the start of the MLB All-Star vote. More than 300 million ballots had been cast, according to MLB.

Toby Cook with the Kansas City Royals Vice-President Community Affairs & Publicity said, “My guess is that we’re going to have several different Royals in the All-Star Game when it is all said and done.”

You can still vote until Thursday, July 2nd.

MLB cancels more than 60 million votes for the All-Star Game

Butler Public Library Searching for Director

BUTLER, Mo – The Butler Public Library in Butler, Missouri is currently searching for a Library Director. The successful candidate must share our passion for library services in a rural setting.

Job responsibilities include working with the public, promoting the Butler Public Library through community interaction, planning monthly library activities for children and adults, and keeping accurate financial and circulation records. The successful candidate must have knowledge of budget preparation, administration, technology, employee supervision, and payroll management. Adaptability, diplomacy, and professional grace are desirable character traits. In general, the Director is responsible for managing the library in all areas.

The Director is directly responsible to the Butler Public Library Board. The successful candidate must meet educational standards relating to Library Science.

Submit a resume emphasizing library experience with 1 personal reference and 2 professional references before June 22, 2015 to:

The Butler Public Library Board

Butler Public Library

100 W. Atkison Ave.

Butler, Mo 64730

Butler Public Library Searching for Director

Echoes of the Trail

Echoes of the Trail will be Friday and Saturday, June 19th and 20th. Attend 2015 Echoes of the Trail for only $20 for both Friday and Saturday or $12 for either day per person. Echoes tickets may be purchased at the door.

Friday evening, June 19th at 7 p.m. on the FSCC Round Room Stage in Bailey Hall will feature Del Shields and Johnny Kendrick with his sons, The Branchy Boys. After the show, enjoy chuck wagon cobbler by the campfire as cowboys sing and tell tales on the open microphone. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets.

Saturday June 20th from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the FSCC Round Room in Bailey Hall hear various artists all day long.

There will be a home baked fruit pie contest, and the three winning pies will be auctioned Saturday evening. During the day, the other pies will be sliced and sold, with the proceeds going to local 4-H, along with the pie auction monies.

At noon, enjoy a chuck wagon lunch outdoors on the south side of Bailey Hall. The free will offering will help pay the chuck wagon expenses.

All day Saturday there will be leather work, western art, deer hide braiding, bead work, and much more in the halls leading to the Round Room. Also, there will be an array of western items on display, waiting for your bid in the Silent Auction.

The evening show will start at 7 p.m. Johnny Kendrick and Arnold Schofield will open the show. A variety of our cowboy singers and poets will put be performing.

Echoes of the Trail

Boot Scootin’ for Breast Cancer

BATES COUNTY, Mo – The Butler Saddle Club will host a Tough Enough to Wear Pink “boot scooting” for breast cancer event, a 5k where participants can walk, peddle a bicycle or ride a horse on Saturday, June 20th.

Open registration for all events begins at 8am in the Bates County Fair Grounds Arena. Line up till be at 8:30 and the event will begin at 9am.

All the proceeds will go to the Bates County Memorial Hospital Cares which is a free mammogram program.

Registration fee is $25 for adults (18 and older; $20 for teen and youth (17 and younger). Each participant will receive a tee-shirt and if you would like to purchase a t-shirt only, the cost is just $15.

Starting point will be the Bates County Fair Grounds Arena and walkers and bikers will follow their trail while horseback riders will follow their own route.

For information contact Myrtle Patrick – 816-738-9614 or Susan Anderson – 816-217-5938. Waivers must be signed on or before June 20th at the registration table.

Everyone is invited to join in the Butler Saddle Club’s “boot scooting” for breast cancer on Saturday, June 20th.

Boot Scootin’ for Breast Cancer

Advance Rodeo Tickets Now on Sale

BATES COUNTY, Mo – The 63rd Butler Saddle Club Rodeo will be June 19th, 20th and 21st in the arena on the Bates County Fairgrounds.

Advance tickets can be purchased from Queen Candidate Jessica Willerton by calling 816-719-6946. The cost is $8 in advance and $10 at the gate. Advanced children’s tickets are $5 and $8 at the gate. Call now and save some money, the cost is the same regardless of what night you attend.

Don’t miss all the excitement of the 63rd Butler Saddle Club Rodeo June 19th, 20th and 21st.

Advance Rodeo Tickets Now on Sale

Harrisonville Man Arrested For Possession Of Child Pornography

Captain Eric T. Olson, director of the Division of Drug and Crime Control, announces the arrest of Dwight A. Davis, 46, of Harrisonville, Missouri, on three counts of possession of child pornography, on June 17, 2015. The arrest was the result of a lengthy investigation conducted by members of the Division of Drug and Crime Control’s Digital Forensics Unit and the Missouri Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force. Davis is being held in the Cass County Jail. The Patrol was assisted by officers of the Cass County Sheriff’s Office.

The Cass County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office formally charged Davis with the three counts of possession of child pornography and bond was set at $50,000 cash or surety.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is part of the Missouri Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The task force is supported through funding made available by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency and administered by Missouri’s Department of Public Safety.

The above charges are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of these charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Harrisonville Man Arrested For Possession Of Child Pornography

Farner-Bocken Distribution Center to open in late August

Construction is underway on the east side of the former Wilson Tire Shop located on Fort Scott Street in Butler. The New Owner, Farner-Bocken Company, was founded in 1939 and is based out of Carroll, Iowa.

The Company is a family owned distributor of convenience store and food service products. The Company services 14 states while supplying over 12,000 items in categories of cigarettes, candy, snacks, tobacco, groceries, automotive, beverages, health and beauty, paper, ice cream, chemicals, supplies and convenience foods. The Farner-Bocken Company, scheduled to open in late summer, will employ a staff of 10 – 15 team members.

Fm-92 Spoke with Dean Onken, President of the Company, regarding job applications . Dean stated that the employees would be a combination of new hires and employees that will be transferred from other locations. Farner-Bocken Distribution Center will use Radio Advertising and Newspaper Advertising to announce when applications will be accepted at the Butler Distribution Center. The Center plans to be open Monday through Friday with hours yet to be announced.

Construction is now underway on the east side of the former Wilson Tire facility. Docks will allow products to move from larger trucks to smaller trucks. The interior will house full case and split case picking areas . The company will deliver the majority of their customers’ orders within 36 hours of receiving them.

We welcome this family owned and operated Distribution Center to our area. For more information see the Farner-Bocken Company on the web at www.farner-bocken.com.

Farner-Bocken Distribution Center to open in late August

Tough Enough to Wear Pink

BATES COUNTY, Mo – Breast Cancer awareness will be front and center at the Butler Saddle Club Rodeo on Saturday, June 20th.

If you are “tough enough to wear pink” that evening then the Butler Saddle Club will donate 50 cents for cancer awareness, and Max Motors will match every ticket donation.

Wear “pink” to the Butler Saddle Club Rodeo on Saturday, June 20th and donations will be made to help breast cancer awareness.

Tough Enough to Wear Pink

Donald William Nisely, 79

Services will be at 2pm on Friday, June 19th at the First Presbyterian Church in Clinton, visitation will be from 6:30 – 8pm at the Vansant-Mills Funeral Home in Clinton.

Inurnment will be at the Englewood Cemetery in Clinton. Memorial contribution may be made to the First Presbyterian Church and left in care of te funeral home.

Survivors include wife Ernadine and two daughters. Condolences may be left at www.vansant-millsfuneralhome.com.

Donald William Nisely, 79

James Miller, 78 of Virginia Community

A memorial celebration of his life will be from 2 – 4pm at the Virginia United Methodist Church under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel.

Jim is survived by sister Mert Sherman of Butler, brother Frankie Miller and 2 grandchildren. Contributions may be made in his memory to the Veteran’s Association. Online Condolences may be sent to www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

James Miller, 78 of Virginia Community

Wild Horse Races at Butler Rodeo

BUTLER, Mo – The Butler Saddle Club’s Rodeo will be hitting the arena on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, June 19th, 20th and 21st.

Each evening opens with the wild horse race beginning 8pm. There will only be 4 teams each night and contestants must compete 2 separate nights to be eligible to win a buckle.

The wild horse races are on a first come, first serve basis each night.

Wild Horse Races at Butler Rodeo

Bates County Community Health Foundation Golf Tournament

BATES COUNTY, Mo – This year marks the 11th annual Bates County Community Health Foundation Golf Tournament.

This is a two-person, 27 holes golf tournament which will be held at the Butler Country Club on Sunday, June 28th and the clubhouse will be open for breakfast – lunch (provided). Check in will be at 8am and a shot gun start will be at 8:30am.

Prizes and awards will be given for 3 flights – 3 places as well as a $10,000 hole in one contest, closest to the pin, longest drive and a raffle.

The entry fee is $75 per person which includes lunch with no refunds. You must have a rental cart, and carts will be available to rent. For any questions or for more information call 660-200-7072 or 816-914-0901.

Paid entries must be received by June 26th send them to:

Shannon Bjerke – Administration Office

Bates County Memorial Hospital

PO Box 370

Butler, MO 64730

Bates County Community Health Foundation Golf Tournament

Time for Safety Village

BATES COUNTY, Mo – Sign-ups for Safety Village will be held on Sunday, June 21st at the Old Butler High School from 5 – 7pm and is for children that are 4 and 5 years of age. Parents are encouraged to bring their participating child so they may meet their teen leaders and take a tour of Safety Village as well as filling out the appropriate paper work.

Safety Village will begin on Monday, June 22nd and will run through Friday, June 26th. Two sessions will be held this year, morning sessions will be from 9am until noon and the afternoon sessions will be held from 1 – 4pm.

Safety Village is a program that focuses on teaching safety to 4 and 5 year olds. It’s a week long program that is filled with activities to make learning safety objectives fun while they are learning.

Children participating are put in small groups of two or three and then assigned to a responsible teen helper. Each day offers stations of snacks, coloring and crafts, videos, role playing, and “driving” around Safety Village.

Safety Village is sponsored by the Bates County Elks Lodge. If further information is needed call 660-679-4025.

Time for Safety Village

The Community Cafe Serves Its First Meals

BUTLER, Mo – From five, to ten, to thirty! The Community Cafe guest numbers are growing as more and more people learn of this opportunity to share in a good meal and visit with others in a cool, comfortable atmosphere.

Beginning June 2, the Community Cafe opened its doors to the people of Butler to share a meal and a smile. On Tuesday evenings, the meals begin at 5:30 p.m. sharp, and the serving ends at 6:00 p.m. The location of the meals rotates between the following churches in this order each month: First Tuesday: First Baptist Church; Second Tuesday: Immanuel Baptist Church; Third Tuesday: Christian Church; Fourth Tuesday: the Church of the Nazarene. Fifth Tuesday: The Community of Christ. The free dinner is provided by local groups, churches, and businesses in Butler.

If you, your organization or workplace would like to donate meals, either on a single-time basis or regularly (such as once a month, once every three-six months, etc.), please contact Becky Clift at 660-227-9477.The meal should consist of a main dish, a side dish or fruit and dessert. Paper goods and iced tea will be provided by the hosting churches. Four to six helpers will be needed to serve the food and wait tables.

It is recommended to plan a meal to serve 50 initially. It may be necessary to adjust the amount prepared as the popularity of the cafe grows. It is recommended that food be prepared in 9×13” pans to assure they will fit in the church’s ovens. The food will need to be at the church by 4:30 p.m.

Donations of food from markets, shops and restaurants will be welcome. Monetary contributions will also be accepted.

Come and enjoy the fellowship at the Community Cafe!

The Community Cafe Serves Its First Meals

Appleton City Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show

Everyone is invited to the 11th Annual Appleton City Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show on Saturday, July 11 at the Appleton City Park. Check-in will be from 9:00 a.m. to noon and the Car Show will be from noon to 3:00 p.m. There will be a $10 entry fee per vehicle.

There will be judging for all classes with the top 50 for cars and trucks, top 3 for motorcycles and top 3 for rat rods. There will also be 6 special pick awards. The first 150 entries will be given dash plaques.

There will also be a 50-50 drawing, door prizes, goodie bags and a live auction. Food concessions will be available. Proceeds from the Show will go toward a pair of $500 scholarships for local high school students.

For car show information, call Bob Roos 660-492-2822, Ted McDaniel 660-492-3779, Ed Hardesty 660-464-0360 or Doug Snodgrass 660-492-2814, or email to appletoncitycarshow@yahoo.com.

Appleton City Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show

Swap Meet at Butler Music on Saturday

BATES COUNTY, Mo – Butler Music will have a swap meet and trunk sale this Saturday, June 20th in their parking lot at 103 West Dakota Street on the Butler Square.

All the fun begins at 9:30am with free soda and water. There will be no entry fees with free entertainments, instrument appraisal and giveaways.

Have an old musical instrument is the closet, bring it to Butler Music on Saturday and sell it.

Swap Meet at Butler Music on Saturday

Free Sports Physicals in Appleton City

The Appleton City Rural Health Clinic will be providing free high school sports physicals during the month of June.

Clinic hours are 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. Physical forms will be available at the clinic. Call 660-476-2121 for an appointment or for more information.

The clinic is located at 408 E 7th Street in Appleton City.

Free Sports Physicals in Appleton City

“C.A. Moore Square” One Step Closer

BUTLER, Mo – The renaming of the Butler Square to the “C.A. Moore Square” moved forward at the Butler City Council meeting on Tuesday evening. City Administrator Casey Koehn brought examples of the signage for the Council members to review. Koehn also told council that Trent Diehl, Director of Public Works has been checking on the prices for the four signs that will be placed on each of the four corners of the square. There was also a discussion on the bronze sign that will be placed on the City Hall, and those details will be discussed at a later council meeting.

The residence at 404 North Delaware was also discussed at the meeting as neighbors came before council to state some of their concerns regarding the condition of the property. These concerns included an overflowing dumpster, parking in the alley way and blocking traffic and just trash in general on the property. Code Enforcement Officer Jim Wheatley stated he will verify who the dumpster belongs to and will contact them to make sure it is dumped. He also stated later in the meeting when Brad Vermass brought up regarding the dumping of the dumpster, there are currently no codes regarding when a dumpster needed to be emptied, but Council felt this was something that needed to be addressed in the future.

Council voted to take 10% of the sale of Maple Leaf (or $30,000) to be used for clean up around town. Casey will find out the legalities of using this money for this purpose and report back to the council.

Council voted to purchase a new police car from the Kansas Highway Patrol. The cost for the Black Dodge Charger would be $16,800 providing the 2012 car is still available. The car would be fully equipped except for a radio. This was already a budgeted item.

Casey Koehn also received approval for starting the process of putting a ½ cent sales tax ordinance on the November ballot. This money will be used for community development and be used to help bring more businesses to town as well as housing demolition, marketing and legal fees for applying for loans and grants.

Jeff Sefton from Butler Music came before council to let everyone know of his upcoming swap meet on Saturday, June 20th in his parking lot from 9:30am to 5pm. He told council he hoped to attract some people to the Butler square.

City Clerk Corey Snead told council the auditors have finished their onsite audit and the final report should be available within the next two weeks.

Carolyn Jett brought to council she had the question asked as to why life jackets aren’t allowed at the Butler Aquatic Center. Trent Diehl stated this was the policy as long as he could remember because of the safety issue as to whether or not a life jacket was a red cross certified jacket and also parents sometimes don’t watch children as closely when they had on a life jacket. He further stated it was a question for the Parks and Recreation Board to address.

“C.A. Moore Square” One Step Closer

Harrisonville High School Hires New Principal

CASS COUNTY, Mo – The Harrisonville Cass R-IX School District is pleased to announce that Jason Eggers has been hired as the Principal at Harrisonville High School, pending release from his current district.

Mr. Eggers comes to Harrisonville from the Jefferson City Public Schools where he has served as assistant principal for one year. Prior to that, he was the Principal at Maryville High School for seven years and Principal at Mound City High School for seven years. He began his teaching career in Mound City as a vocal music teacher in 1997.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Vocal Music Education, a master’s degree in Secondary Administration, and an educational specialist’s degree in Superintendency all from Northwest Missouri State University.

His honors and awards include 2002 Region 1 FCCLA Administrator of the Year, 2003 Commissioners Award for Excellence in Professional Development, 2004 & 2012 Missouri Gold Star School, 2005 NCLB Blue Ribbon School, 2010 MASSP/Walsworth Consummate Professional Award, 2012 PLC Missouri Exemplary School, and 2012 NCBL Blue Ribbon School State Nomination.

Mr. Eggers is a member of both the Missouri and National Associations of Secondary School Principals. He is past president of NWMASSP, past Northwest District representative for MASSP, and current president of MASSP.

Mr. Eggers and his wife have three daughters. Mr. Eggers will begin his employment with the district on July 1.

Harrisonville High School Hires New Principal

Circuit Court Of Bates County, Court News

James K Journey, Judge

Diana L Rich, Clerk

Emily B Ryser v Alex D Ryser, Dissolution of Marriage is granted.

St v Martin M Feliscian, Felony assault, guilty plea, sentenced to 7 years MDOC, jurisdiction retained, II: dismissed—armed criminal action.

St v Kori L Foster, Misd assault-guilty plea to amended charge, sentenced to 6 mos. Bates Co Jail, given SES, one year supervised probation, pay court costs.

St v Eric Hall, guilty plea to ct I: Felony stealing, ct II: Felony burglary, given SIS, placed on 5 yrs probation, pay restitution.

St v. Eric Hall, guilty plea to Misd. Unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, $200 fine.

St v. Eric Hall, guilty plea to Misd. Possession of controlled substance, marijuana, $100 fine.

St v. Eric Hall, guilty plea to two counts of Felony burglary, given SIS, placed on 5 years’ probation, one count Misd. Given SIS, placed on 2 years’ probation, pay restitution.

St v. Eric Hall, Felony resisting arrest, dismissed by State.

St v. Ashley R Mays, probation violation admission, probation extended to 3-17-18 to pay restitution.

St v. James McDonald, Motion to Revoke probation dismissed by State.

St v. Coleen G Smith, guilty plea to amended charge of Misd. Stealing, sentenced to 6 mos in Bates Co Jail, 2 years’ probation, pay court costs by 8-17-15 of be back in court.

St v. Justin Williamson, guilty plea to Felony possession of controlled substance, sentenced to 3 years in MDOC, to run concurrently with any other sentences currently serving.

St v. Samuel J Hughes, guilty plea to amended information of Felony possession of controlled substance, sentence to 4 years in MDOC, concurrently with any other sentence dft is currently serving.

St v. Casey W. Morris, State dismisses motion to revoke on all cases.

St v. Jamie L Zempel, guilty plea to Misd. Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to use, sentenced to 30 days in Bates Co Jail with credit for time served.

St v. Mathew Scott Heavener, guilty plea to 3 counts forgery, given SIS, placed on 5 yrs probation, to obey ten standard conditions, perform 200 hours of community service work, pay court costs.

Circuit Court Of Bates County, Court News

Wanted: Little Miss and Mr. Bates County Contestants

BATES COUNTY, Mo – Bates County candidates are needed for the upcoming Little Miss and Mr. Bates County contest during the Bates County Fair. The contest is for boys and girls between the ages of 4 and 6 by July 1, 2015.

Pre-registration is required and the deadline to pre-register is June 19th. Register your child at the Butler Chamber of Commerce office at 15 N Main Street in Butler, and there is a $5 entry fee for each child.

Little Miss and Mr. Bates County finalists will ride in the Fair Parade on Tuesday, July 7th and the winner will be announced during the Bash on Tuesday, July 7th. Duties include of being the crown bearer for the Queen and Princess and ribbon presentation to the Pee Wee kids with assistance.

Winners will receive a $50 savings bond and a maximum of 10 finalists will be selected.

Now is the time to register your child for Little Miss and Mr. Bates County, the deadline is quickly approaching.

Wanted: Little Miss and Mr. Bates County Contestants

Orlan Francis Schultz, 92 of Frisco, TX

Orlan Francis Schultz, age 92 of Frisco, Texas passed away on March 8, 2015 in Plano, Texas. A graveside service, with military honors, will be held 11:00 am Saturday June 20, 2015 in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, MO. Services under the direction of Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler (660)679-0009. Contributions are suggested to the American Legion Post #46, Butler, MO. Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

Orlan is survived by his son, Francis (Frank) K. Schultz and daughter-in-law, Janelle (Clark) Schultz of Frisco, Texas; grandson, Neal R. Schultz and wife, Johanne of Frisco, Texas; great-grandson, Austin R. Schultz of Frisco, Texas; nieces Ruth Ann Thiel of Prairie Village, Kansas, Mary Lee Hall Wilson and husband, Larry of Jacksonville, Florida and close family friend, Anthony Bennett of Plano, Texas. He also leaves behind other nieces, nephews, family members and dear friends.

Orlan Francis Schultz, 92 of Frisco, TX

1,200 Harley Riders Expected in Springfield June 18-20

Springfield, Missouri – About 1,200 people will be in HOG heaven June 18-20 during the 32nd Annual Missouri Harley-Davidson Owners Group Rally in Springfield.

Not only will they be riding their motorcycles around the city, the people who participate in the rally will enjoy the camaraderie of others who ride Harley-Davidson motorcycles, said James Roe, marketing coordinator for the Missouri HOG Rally.

The event begins at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Ramada Plaza Hotel & Oasis Convention Center, 2546 N. Glenstone Ave. The vendor area is free and open to the public but the rally is for HOG members and their guests.

People wishing to participate may sign up on site, and activities for registered attendees include the following:

Scheduled and self-guided rides, such as a poker run, observation ride and a Route 66 ride

An early bird Meet-N-Greet dinner with live music

The Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Boogie Lights Contest

On/off bike games

A Harley-Davidson bike show

The Whiskey, Guitars & Handlebars Rock & Roll Comedy Show

Closing ceremonies with live entertainment by the John Minor Band

For more information, visit www.mostatehogrally.com.

1,200 Harley Riders Expected in Springfield June 18-20

Food Preservation Class

VERNON COUNTY, Mo – Food preservation classes will be held from 8:30 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 20, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 15156 E. Pony Hill Road, in Nevada.

Topics that will be covered include:

Pressure Canning Low Acid Foods – Be ready to start with fresh green beans or carrots and participate in the canning process from washing the vegetables to removing the jars from the canner.

How to Pickle- Participants will prepare and process dilled green beans. There will be information on how to prepare and process fermented pickles and sauerkraut.

Salsa From Your Garden- We will prepare and process a fruit salsa. Participatns will receive information and recipes for tomato salsa.

Jams and Jellies- In this class you will make blueberry spice jam as well as freezer jam. Receive lots of tips on how to make sure your jams and jellies turn out perfectly.

Pre-registration is required. Cost is $80 for the day which includes lunch. For more information or to register, call Vernon County University of Missouri Extension at 417-448-2560.

Food Preservation Class

leave Without Pay at Conoco in Butler

BATES COUNTY : On 06/15/2015 at approx. 1153pm Butler Police were contacted about a leave without pay from Conoco.

Officers picked up the vehicle as it was traveling East on Dakota St. then South on Broadway. The license plate came back to Teresa Woods of Mount Vernon as a stolen vehicle. Officers reported that the vehicle had entered the Fair grounds and had struck 2 poles during the pursuit and came to rest on the North side of the arena.

There were three subjects were in the vehicle one female Hayley Pace and 2 males Cooper Hawkins and Shaye Woods. It is believed that Shaye Woods stole the vehicle. All three were charged with stealing and Hayley Pace was also charged with C and I driving and several other traffic violations. All three were transported to the Bates Co Jail and were being held for the Lawrence Co Sheriffs office.

The Butler Police would like to think the Missouri Highway Patrol and the Bates Co Sheriffs office for their assistance

.

leave Without Pay at Conoco in Butler

Butler man arrested after striking residence with vehicle and fleeing on foot

BATES COUNTY : On June 12, 2015, Deputies from the Bates County Sheriff’s Office took a report of a vehicle that had just struck a residence. The suspect, identified as Andrew Diehl, drove into the victim’s driveway at a high rate of speed. Diehl was unable to stop the vehicle and ran into the side of the residence. Mr. Diehl then fled the scene on foot. Deputies did an area canvass and tried to apprehend Diehl but were unsuccessful.

On June 13, 2015, Andrew Diehl turned himself in to the Bates County Sheriff’s Office. Diehl had two outstanding warrants out of Bates County and the City of Butler. The Bates County warrant was for driving while revoked. The bond was $2500.00 cash or surety. The City of Butler warrant was for failure to appear. The bond amount of the City of Butler warrant was $500.00 cash or surety.

Courtesy of the Bates County Sheriffs Office

Butler man arrested after striking residence with vehicle and fleeing on foot

Drexel and Cass County News

Cass County News : On Saturday June 13th at 9:00 p.m. The Drexel Police and Cass County Sheriff Deputies were dispatched to the 300 block of East Maple regarding a subject threatening family members with an ax.

Upon their arrival officers believed that the suspect was still inside the house. Officers on the scene requested the Cass County Tactical Response Team to conduct a search of the residence. The subject was not located inside the residence.

Cass County Deputies found the suspect at a nearby church where he was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Cass County Jail. The suspect, David W. Cook, 30, was charged with Second Degree Domestic Assault and issued a bond of $7500.00.

Mr. Cook is currently in custody and being held on Bates County and Vernon County warrants.

Courtesy of the Cass County Sheriffs Office

Drexel and Cass County News

Police Chase ends at Bates County Fairgrounds

Tuesday, June 16, 2015 Short police chase in Butler ends at fairgrounds.

Shortly after midnight Tuesday Morning, the Butler Police Department was involved with a short chase of a stolen car out of Mt. Vernon, Missouri.

The vehicle fled from Butler officers and lead them on a brief police chase down Broadway Street before the vehicle wrecked into a light pole at the Bates County Fairgrounds.

We do know that 3 people are in custody and the Butler Electric Department was sent to the location to repair the light pole that was hit.

The Butler Fire Department responded to the smell of natural gas in the area of the Butler Fairgrounds. The Butler Police Department was assisted by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and Bates County Sheriffs Office.

Police Chase ends at Bates County Fairgrounds

Butler Rodeo Dance

BATES COUNTY, Mo – There will be a rodeo dance after the Butler Rodeo on Saturday night, June 20th. Wasteland will be entertaining everyone from 9pm – 1am in the youth building.

Come out after the rodeo and enjoy the great music from Wasteland on Saturday, June 20th the admission is only $5.

Butler Rodeo Dance

Enrollment for ARC and PLC Opens

WASHINGTON, June 15, 2015 – U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that eligible producers may now formally enroll in the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs for 2014 and 2015. The enrollment period begins June 17, 2015, and will end Sept. 30, 2015.

The new programs, established by the 2014 Farm Bill, trigger financial protections for agricultural producers when market forces cause substantial drops in crop prices or revenues. More than 1.76 million farmers have elected ARC or PLC. Previously, 1.7 million producers had enrolled to receive direct payments (the program replaced with ARC and PLC by the 2014 Farm Bill). This means more farms have elected ARC or PLC than previously enrolled under previously administered programs.

Nationwide, 96 percent of soybean farms, 91 percent of corn farms, and 66 percent of wheat farms elected ARC. 99 percent of long grain rice farms, 99 percent of peanut farms, and 94 percent of medium grain rice farms elected PLC. For data about other crops and state-by-state program election results go towww.fsa.usda.gov/arc-plc.

Covered commodities under ARC and PLC include barley, canola, large and small chickpeas, corn, crambe, flaxseed, grain sorghum, lentils, mustard seed, oats, peanuts, dry peas, rapeseed, long grain rice, medium grain rice (which includes short grain and sweet rice), safflower seed, sesame, soybeans, sunflower seed and wheat. Upland cotton is no longer a covered commodity.

For more information, visit www.usda.gov/farmbill.

Enrollment for ARC and PLC Opens

It’s Free for 6 Months

BATES COUNTY, Mo – The Butler Chamber of Commerce, the City of Butler and the Bates County Economic Developer have joined together to create a central go-to location for “new” prospective customers and residents for our town.

They are inviting customers to advertise on the City of Butler’s website (butlermo.com) at no charge for a six month trial basis. Whether you want a simple display or a linked advertisement to your website, Facebook, Twitter or other social media venues, they can help set it up.

They are offering this free for six months to give everyone a chance to see how it boosts traffic and sends new customers to your business. If you choose to continue advertising after the first six months, there will be a $15-25 per month fee which will be charged to keep your page on the website. The cost is determined by the upkeep or changes that will be made to page each month.

Payments will go back to the Butler Chamber and will be used to help promote local business and tourism. The City will also use part of the funds to put “visit Butler” type billboards 25 – 30 miles north and south of Butler on I-49.

For more details contact City Administrator Casey Koehn at the Butler City Hall at 660-679-4182.

It’s Free for 6 Months

Baseball Games Cancelled

The baseball games in Butler for Tuesday evening have been cancelled due to the weather.

Baseball Games Cancelled

Echoes of the Trail

Echoes of the Trail will be Friday and Saturday, June 19th and 20th. Attend 2015 Echoes of the Trail for only $20 for both Friday and Saturday or $12 for either day per person. Echoes tickets may be purchased at the door.

Friday evening, June 19th at 7 p.m. on the FSCC Round Room Stage in Bailey Hall will feature Del Shields and Johnny Kendrick with his sons, The Branchy Boys. After the show, enjoy chuck wagon cobbler by the campfire as cowboys sing and tell tales on the open microphone. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets.

Saturday June 20th from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the FSCC Round Room in Bailey Hall hear various artists all day long.

There will be a home baked fruit pie contest, and the three winning pies will be auctioned Saturday evening. During the day, the other pies will be sliced and sold, with the proceeds going to local 4-H, along with the pie auction monies.

At noon, enjoy a chuck wagon lunch outdoors on the south side of Bailey Hall. The free will offering will help pay the chuck wagon expenses.

All day Saturday there will be leather work, western art, deer hide braiding, bead work, and much more in the halls leading to the Round Room. Also, there will be an array of western items on display, waiting for your bid in the Silent Auction.

The evening show will start at 7 p.m. Johnny Kendrick and Arnold Schofield will open the show. A variety of our cowboy singers and poets will put be performing.

Echoes of the Trail

Annual D.A.R.E.

On June 13, 2015 the Bates County Sheriff’s Office hosted their first annual D.A.R.E. Family Fun Day. Kids from Bates County were treated with free hot dogs, popcorn, sno-cones and cotton candy.

They were able to take a chance at dunking a Deputy in the dunk tank and play on inflatables that were provided by Andy’s Inflatable Rentals. The kids also got to take their picture with Daren the Lion. Deputies interacted one on one with the kids to show them that Police Officers are their friends and are just normal people too. Sheriff Anderson estimated that we served around 500 hot dogs and over 400 sno-cones. The first 100 kids were given a free t-shirt. The t-shirts were all handed out within 15 minutes of starting the event. Sheriff Anderson would also like to thank Brent Welston from On the Go Johns for providing the portable toilet and also to Tyler Green from Citizen’s Bank for donating the use of their cotton candy machine and all of the supplies for the machine. He would also like to thank Butler Fire Department for filling up the dunk tank, Sheriff’s Posse member Keith Cramer for donating his time and also to the spouses and children of our Deputies who also donated their time to help make this event successful. Sheriff Anderson said the event was such a huge success he plans on doing it again next year. This was just another way that the Bates County Sheriff’s Office gave back to the community. A day of free and safe fun was provided to our youth. We hope everyone in the community enjoyed the event just as much as Sheriff Anderson and his staff did!

Annual D.A.R.E.

Vehicle into Residence

BATES COUNTY, Mo – On June 12, 2015, Deputies from the Bates County Sheriff’s Office took a report of a vehicle that had just struck a residence. The suspect, identified as Andrew Diehl, drove into the victim’s driveway at a high rate of speed. Diehl was unable to stop the vehicle and ran into the side of the residence. Mr. Diehl then fled the scene on foot. Deputies did an area canvass and tried to apprehend Diehl but were unsuccessful.

On June 13, 2015, Andrew Diehl turned himself in to the Bates County Sheriff’s Office. Diehl had two outstanding warrants out of Bates County and the City of Butler. The Bates County warrant was for driving while revoked. The bond was $2500.00 cash or surety. The City of Butler warrant was for failure to appear. The bond amount of the City of Butler warrant was $500.00 cash or surety.

Vehicle into Residence

Cancelled: Endangered Person Advisory

Gypsy R. Blancharde has been found and is well.

Update: A search warrant was obtained for the residence of the missing individuals. Upon service of the warrant, Greene County Sheriff’s Office Deputies discovered the body of a deceased 48 year old female who was confirmed to be Clauddinnea “Dee Dee” Blancharde inside the home. Gypsy Blancharde is still missing, and the Greene County Sheriff’s Office’s investigation continues.

Anyone seeing the missing person, suspect, associate, or vehicle, or anyone having any information related to the endangered missing person should immediately dial 911 to contact the nearest law enforcement agency or call the Greene County Sheriff’s Office at 417-829-6230.

The Greene County Sheriff’s Office has issued an Endangered Person Advisory for a missing person incident that occurred at 2103 West Volunteer Way at 5:41 PM on June 14, 2015.

Missing Is:

Gypsy R. Blancharde a white female, age 19

Brief circumstances regarding the Endangered Missing Person incident: Clauddinnea Blancharde also goes by Dee Dee. Mother and daughter have severe medical issues and Gypsy may require a wheelchair. Neighbors reported they have not seen either subject since June 10th. It is unknown when or under what circumstances they left their house.

Cancelled: Endangered Person Advisory

Team Tanner Event

BATES COUNTY, Mo – Team Tanner is about a local born Bates County child that sustained life-long injuries at 10 months old as a victim of Shaken Baby Syndrome (mobility impairment, visual impairment, epilepsy and many other special needs). Team Tanner has been able to purchase a used handicapped van that has a hydraulic lift as well as safety device for wheel chairs to be secured.

Tanner’s mother Melinda dedicates her time to taking care of Tanner and is unable to work outside their home. They do have insurance, but it only pays certain needed treatment and for certain equipment. Since the injury Tanner and his mother have relocated to Kansas City so that Tanner can attend the Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired and also be closer to Children’s Mercy Hospital.

Team Tanner is co-hosting a fundraiser with The Fishing Dock on June 20, 2015 for Tanner. Raffle tickets for various items are $1 or 6 for $5 and can be purchased from Barb Robinson (660-200-5561), Myra Boyer (417-684-7002 or anyone at The Fishing Dock. You need not be present on June 20th to win. The Fishing Dock has offered a percentage of their food sales on June 20th also.

The live band “Eisel and Hoover” will will be playing at the Fishing Dock at approximately 9:00 p.m. until closing time.

“Team Tanner” donations may be made directly to Citizen’s Bank in Butler, MO, or by contacting Barbara Robinson (660) 200-5561 or Myra Boyer (417) 684-7002 or by going to the “Team-Tanner” GoFundMe page. Please make sure you have a dash in the middle, there are 3 “Team Tanners”. You can also find information on “Team Tanner” on FaceBook.

Team Tanner Event

Burn Outs for Brice

BATES COUNTY, Mo – The 2nd annual “burn outs” for Brice car show will be held on Saturday, June 20th from 10am – 3pm at RJays Speed Shop, 202 S. Old Highway 71 in Adrian (south of Casey’s).

A full day of competition, food, music and fun will be enjoyed by all with all proceeds going to help defray the medical expenses of Brice Eidson, who has been battling a rare form of leukemia.


Register the day of the competition and the registration fee is the donation of your choice. A cash prize of $300 will be awarded to the winner of the completion.

Stop by and enjoy a full, fun day of burn outs and celebration of Brice Eidson’s attitude of “losing is not an option”. For more information call 816-291-4575.

Burn Outs for Brice

Steam and Gas Engine Show in Adrian

BATES COUNTY, Mo – The 37th Annual Steam and Gas Engine Show will roll onto the Show Grounds of Frontier Village in Adrian June 26th, 27th and 28th. The Western Missouri Antique Tractor and Machinery Association invite everyone to take a step back in time and enjoy tractor pulls, visit an ice cream parlor, blacksmith show and museum.

Breakfast will be served all three days from 6 – 10am in the Frontier Village Center. The Ferguson Tractors and Implements and Ford/Ferguson 39 – 47 tractors will be featured during this 3 day event.

There will be lots of food vendors ranging from sandwiches to kettle corn and homemade ice cream.

Admission is just $8 for adults and children 15 and under accompanying an adult will be admitted free. Your paid admission is good for all 3 day.

Enjoy old fashioned fun for 3 days, 26th, 27th and 28th at the 36th Western Missouri Antique Tractor and Machinery Association’s Annual Steam and Gas Engine Show at Frontier Village in Adrian.

Steam and Gas Engine Show in Adrian

Road Closed

ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Mo – Missouri Route D bridge three miles west of Route 13 near Lowry City in St. Clair County will be CLOSED for up to 46 calendar days beginning the week of June 22 (this bridge was originally scheduled to close the following week).

Contractor crews will replace the bridge deck or driving surface.

Signs and message boards will alert drivers to these bridge closings. Drivers will need to find alternate routes around the work zones. Weather and/or construction delays will alter the work schedule.

Road Closed

Update: Endangered Person Advisory - Gypsy and Clauddinnea Blancharde - Greene County‏

Update: A search warrant was obtained for the residence of the missing individuals. Upon service of the warrant, Greene County Sheriff’s Office Deputies discovered the body of a deceased 48 year old female who was confirmed to be Clauddinnea “Dee Dee” Blancharde inside the home. Gypsy Blancharde is still missing, and the Greene County Sheriff’s Office’s investigation continues.

Anyone seeing the missing person, suspect, associate, or vehicle, or anyone having any information related to the endangered missing person should immediately dial 911 to contact the nearest law enforcement agency or call the Greene County Sheriff’s Office at 417-829-6230.

The Greene County Sheriff’s Office has issued an Endangered Person Advisory for a missing person incident that occurred at 2103 West Volunteer Way at 5:41 PM on June 14, 2015.

Missing Is:

Gypsy R. Blancharde a white female, age 19

Brief circumstances regarding the Endangered Missing Person incident: Clauddinnea Blancharde also goes by Dee Dee. Mother and daughter have severe medical issues and Gypsy may require a wheelchair. Neighbors reported they have not seen either subject since June 10th. It is unknown when or under what circumstances they left their house.

Update: Endangered Person Advisory - Gypsy and Clauddinnea Blancharde - Greene County‏

Ruth Elizabeth Engels, 87 of Rich Hill, MO

Services will be held at 2pm on Wednesday, June 17th at the Rich Hill Christian Church under the direction of the Heuser Funeral Home of Rich Hill. Burial will be in the Green Lawn Cemetery. Contributions may be made to the Rich Hill Christian Church in care of the funeral home.

Ruth Elizabeth Engels, 87 of Rich Hill, MO

Bill G. Long, 70 of Appleton City, MO

Services will be held at 10am on Tuesday, June 16th at the Hill and Son Funeral Home in Appleton City, MO. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 15th from 6 – 8pm at the funeral home.

He is survived by Mother Leta Long; Wife Sandra Long; Sons Jeff and Mark Long all of Appleton City and 5 grandchildren.

Contributions may be made to the Bill Long Youth Baseball Fund or the Trinity Unity Methodist Church.

Bill G. Long, 70 of Appleton City, MO

Bill G. Lon, 70 of Appleton City, MO

Services will be held at 10am on Tuesday, June 16th at the Hill and Son Funeral Home in Appleton City, MO. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 15th from 6 – 8pm at the funeral home.

He is survived by Mother Leta Long; Wife Sandra Long; Sons Jeff and Mark Long all of Appleton City and 5 grandchildren.

Contributions may be made to the Bill Long Youth Baseball Fund or the Trinity Unity Methodist Church.

Bill G. Lon, 70 of Appleton City, MO

Butler Police Department Activity Report

06/08/2015

Animal complaint S Main

Disturbance 800 block of S High

Theft report Wal-Mart

Animal complaint S Mechanic

Well being check

06/09/2015

Disturbance N Fulton

Theft report Wal-Mart

Walk in theft report

Animal complaint Hillcrest

Accident Ft Scott and Prospect

Medical assist 100 Block of S Water

Well being check S Birch

Alarm Sears

06/10/2015

Accident Fran Ave

Animal complaint S Austin

Accident Main and Ft Scott

911 hang up 700 block of N Havanna

Accident Ft Scott and Orange

Disturbance 200 block of W Park

Animal complaint Butler Plaza

Disturbance call Park St

Well being check

06/11/2015

Alarm 700 block of W Dakota

Possible prowler 200 block of S High

Well being check 400 block of N Water

Medical assist 100 block of E Pleasant

Theft report

Noise complaint 600 block of W Nursery

Fight call 400 block of S Main

06/12/2015

Noise complaint S Park

Animal complaint orange and Mill

Accident S Olive

Keep the peace 300 block of S Mechanic

Assist DFS 100 block of E Pleasant

Keep the peace 400 block of S Main

Keep the peace 800 block of S Birch

Well being check 400 block of S Main

Walk in theft report

06/13/2015

Disturbance 800 block of Wix Lane

Animal complaint 200 block of S Main

Harassment call 500 block of N Fulton

Animal complaint 400 block of n high

Well being check 800 block of Hilcrest

Alarm Butler Auto Credit

Walk in theft report

06/14/2015

Report of fireworks being shot Wix Lane area

Assist BCMH

Noise complaint S Park

Alarm 900 block of W Ft Scott

Animal complaint 200 block of S Main

Medical assist 100 block of N Austin

Disturbance McDonalds

Report of small child in street 300 block of S Broadway

Butler Police Department Activity Report

Bates County Sheriff's Activity Report

JUNE 8, 2015

Suspicious Activity – Amsterdam

Alarm – Amsterdam

Agency Assist – St. Clair Co

Theft – Butler

Agency Assist – Butler

Fail To Return Property – Rich Hill

Theft – Adrian

Domestic – Amoret

Debris In Roadway – Adrian

Animal Call – Rich Hill

MVA- Adrian

Assault – Drexel

Agency Assist – Drexel

JUNE 9, 2015

Alarm – Amsterdam

Check Well Being – Rich Hill

MVA- Rich Hill

C&I – Adrian

Debris On Roadway – Adrian

JUNE 10, 2015

Suspicious Activity – Butler

911 Hang up – Adrian

Stranded Motorist – Butler

Burglary – Amoret

Disturbance – Adrian

Ambulance Request – Butler

MVA – Rich Hill

Agency Assistance – Butler

Wanted Subject – Adrian

JUNE 11, 2015

Disturbance – Merwin

Check Well Being – Rockville

Prowler – Butler

Alarm – Hume

Agency Assist – Butler

Agency Assist – Amoret

Check Well Being – Amoret

Suspicious Activity – Hume

Theft – Butler

JUNE 12, 2015

Wanted Subject – Adrian

Agency Assist – Butler

Theft – Adrian

Check Well Being – Butler

Ambulance Request – Adrian

Domestic – Rich Hill

Civil Standby – Adrian

Suspicious Activity – Hume

Check Well Being – Urich

Abandon Vehicle – Amsterdam

Fraud/Identity Theft – Drexel

Stranded Motorist – Adrian

JUNE 13, 2015

Check Well Being – Adrian

Suspicious Activity – Urich

Check Well Being – Adrian

Suspicious Activity – Drexel

Burglary – Rockville

Check Well Being – Rich Hill

Agency Assist – Drexel

JUNE 14, 2015

Wanted Subject – Butler

Gun Shots Heard – Adrian

Agency Assist – Appleton City

Check Well Being – Adrian

Suspicious Activity – Drexel

Check Well Being – Ballard

911 Hang up – Butler

Check Well Being – Adrian

Check Well Being – Rich Hill

MVA – Adrian

Wanted Subject – Spruce

Suicidal Subject – Butler

MVA – Butler

Stranded Motorist – Butler

Agency Assist – Butler

Stranded Motorist – Rich Hill

Animal Call – Amoret

Debris On Roadway – Butler

Suspicious Activity – Rockville

Wrong Way Driver – Butler

Stranded Motorist – Butler

Agency Assist – Butler

Rich Hill Activity Report

JUNE 9, 2015

Check Well Being

JUNE 10, 2015

Ambulance Request

Harassment

JUNE 11, 2015

Ambulance Request

JUNE 12, 2015

Suspicious Activity

Animal Call

JUNE 13, 2015

Drunk Driver

Careless & Imprudent Driver

JUNE 14, 2015

Careless & Imprudent Driver

Animal Call

Animal Call

Burglary

Controlled Burn

Civil Standby

Alarm

Disturbance

Bates County Sheriff's Activity Report

Tough Enough to Wear Pink

BATES COUNTY, Mo – Breast Cancer awareness will be front and center at the Butler Saddle Club Rodeo on Saturday, June 20th.

If you are “tough enough to wear pink” that evening then the Butler Saddle Club will donate 50 cents for cancer awareness, and Max Motors will match every ticket donation.

Wear “pink” to the Butler Saddle Club Rodeo on Saturday, June 20th and donations will be made to help breast cancer awareness.

Tough Enough to Wear Pink

Enroll for Tai Chi for Health Class

BATES COUNTY, Mo – Enrollment is now open for an upcoming Tai Chi for health class. The classes will begin on Tuesday, June 23rd and classes will be held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Bates County Memorial Hospital Education Center beginning at 2:00 p.m.

The cost is just $3 per class or $15 per month.

All proceeds will benefit the Butler Senior Center. For more information or to enroll in the class, call Miranda Parks at Medicalodge 660-679-3179.

The class is open to everyone.

Enroll for Tai Chi for Health Class

McGennis Youth Center Now Open Weekends for Swimming

The McGennis Youth Center is now open for swimming on Saturdays and Sundays from 1-6 p.m.

Swimming is also open the rest of the week, by appointment, for groups of ten or more. To make a reservation, call the Youth Center at 417-484-3216. You can also check on the McGennis Youth Center’s Facebook page for more information about swimming and other activities.

The opening of swim season at the Center was delayed this summer due to a lack of lifeguards. The Center is still seeking additional certified lifeguards. If interested, give the Center a call.

McGennis Youth Center Now Open Weekends for Swimming

Bates County Community Health Foundation Golf Tournament

BATES COUNTY, Mo – This year marks the 11th annual Bates County Community Health Foundation Golf Tournament.

This is a two-person, 27 holes golf tournament which will be held at the Butler Country Club on Sunday, June 28th and the clubhouse will be open for breakfast – lunch (provided). Check in will be at 8am and a shot gun start will be at 8:30am.

Prizes and awards will be given for 3 flights – 3 places as well as a $10,000 hole in one contest, closest to the pin, longest drive and a raffle.

The entry fee is $75 per person which includes lunch with no refunds. You must have a rental cart, and carts will be available to rent. For any questions or for more information call 660-200-7072 or 816-914-0901.

Paid entries must be received by June 26th send them to:

Shannon Bjerke – Administration Office

Bates County Memorial Hospital

PO Box 370

Butler, MO 64730

Bates County Community Health Foundation Golf Tournament

Pulling Against Cancer

BATES COUNTY, Mo – Adrian will be hosting a MSTPA Truck and Tractor Pull on Saturday, June 13th at the Ferguson Arena (City Lake).

All of the festivities begin at 7pm and proceeds will go to Relay For Life – American Cancer Society.

A truck show and benefit auction will take place before the pull beginning at 5pm. Admission for adults is $12 and $5 for kids. Children 5 and under will get in free.

Come out for a good cause and enjoy an evening watching a truck and tractor pull on Saturday, June 13th.

Pulling Against Cancer

Flag Day Ceremony

BATES COUNTY, Mo – The Bates County Elks invite everyone to a Flag Day Ceremony at the Veterans Tribute on the Bates County Lawn on Saturday, June 13th beginning at 2pm.

Flag Day Ceremony

2015 Relay For Life a Success

BATES COUNTY, Mo – While the day celebrating Relay for Life 2015 has come to an end, the fight against cancer still continues.

The committee and teams are pleased to announce the total amount raised was $40,214.00 with money still coming in. The amount each team raised was: Cure Crusaders – Medicalodge – $270; Mash Team – $2,828.50; Memories of Mom -$8,428; Team Educate – $10,541.43; Tiger Pride – $1,471; Christians Conquering Cancer – $630; Heartland Angels – $280; Butler Rotary – $437; Lifesavers – $349; Pulling Against Cancer – $3,226; Walking Hope – Willow Lane – $606.17; Liberty Utilities – $187 and Corporate Sponsorships brought in – $10,930. The silent auction brought in $468 and $3,290 for the regular auction.

There were 31 registered survivors that were recognized and honored. They made the first lap to start the walk for the fight against cancer. The day’s announcers were Greg Mullinax, Diane Bartels with Mark Goebel also helping out.

Scholarship winners were – Bates County Community Health Foundation – Lacie Gooch of Hume; Gehm Family Scholarship Aware – Kylie Johnson of Butler and the Trail of Memories Debbie Bledsoe Scholarship recipient was Julie Lancaster of Amsterdam.

Grand prize raffle winners $500 donated by Heartland Hospice – Roberta Sage; Sharon Cumpton’s handmade quilt – Connie Schaller and Beulah Conner won the $100 gift card donated by Massey’s County Mart. 396 luminaries were read by Gary Schowengerdt, Carol Ann Winburn, Alan Mundey and Holly Rabourn.

The Bates County Relay for Life Committee Pam Nieder, Miranda Parks, Karen Berry, Carol Ann Winburn, Roberta Sage, Sharon Cumpton, Shannon Barth, Vicki Kershner, Robin Fleischer, Herman Strauch and Missy McCoy would like to thank everyone for their support and helping to make this year’s Relay for Life such a success.

2015 Relay For Life a Success

Civil War Weekend at Poplar Heights Living History Farm

BATES COUNTY, Mo – Join the men of Jackman’s famous 16th Missouri Infantry who will be bivouacking at Poplar Heights Living History Farm the weekend of June 13 & 14 in remembrance of the men and women of those terrible Civil War times.

This year marks the 150th Anniversary of the end of the Civil War and this special weekend event will feature camps of Union and Confederate soldiers. You can walk the Civil War trail to read stories of life on the western front of Missouri. Be there for the firing of the cannons and a huge display of black powder guns.

As you step back in time at Poplar Heights Living History Farm, you can take in a Wild West show, learn heritage crafts, try your hand a candle making, stone cutting, 2 man sawing and basket weaving. Watch demonstrations of inkle looms, bobbin lace, blacksmithing, viking weaving and broom making and more. Take a horse drawn wagon ride and watch black powder log splitting. There will also be panning for gems at the Bartlett Mine.

The 1870’s house & barns are open for tours along with the heirloom vegetable gardens. Period music will enliven the weekend while you enjoy the food tents and sip lemonade in the shade. A special event will be the dedication and opening of the historic Atkeson Log Cabin on Saturday, June 13 at 1:00 pm.

There will be plenty of free children’s activities to keep them busy. Visit with the heirloom cattle, prize winning hair sheep, draft horses and chickens. It’s a weekend event you won’t want to miss.

This great family event is free to children under 12 and adults are just $5.00. Times are Saturday, June 13, 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday, June 14, 11 am to 4 pm. For more information visit their website at www. poplarheightsfarm.org or visit them on Facebook, or call 660-200-5620. There’s plenty of free parking and buses are welcome.

Poplar Heights Living History Farm is a 640 acre educational site and nature conservancy located 7 miles northeast of Butler, Missouri. This charitable foundation highlights Missouri life at the end of the 1800’s. Proceeds from this event help fund the children’s programs.

From Butler, Missouri go east on H Highway to the cemetery and follow the signs. From the north on I-49, turn east on D Highway at Passaic, go 6.72 miles, turn right on County Road 7003 and follow the signs. From the east, take H highway to UU Highway and follow the signs.

Civil War Weekend at Poplar Heights Living History Farm

Highways, Hogs and Hillbillies Poker Run

BATES COUNTY, Mo – It’s time for the 6th Annual Highways, Hogs and Hillbillies Poker Run. It all takes place on June 13th with registration beginning at 9am on the Butler Square.

There will be 2 separate classes this year, cars and bikes. The cost will be $25 per vehicle and $10 for each additional rider. Cash prizes will be giving for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. A raffle will be held for pairs of upper level and lower level Royals tickets as well as a Dean guitar valued at $400. You need not be present for the raffle drawing.

The ride begins at 10am and for route information see their Facebook page or call 816-872-5659 or 816-225-1362.

The Highway Hogs and Hillbillies Poker run is just one of the many fund raising events that keep the Adult Recovery Court active and available to those that qualify and are accepted into the program.

If you would like to donate to the program or specifically to the promotion of the annual Highway Hogs and Hillbillies Poker Run contact Judge Debra Hopkins or send your donations to The Bates County Courthouse, 1 North Delaware Street, Butler, MO 64730 in care of the Adult Recovery Court.

The money will be used for the needs of the program. The Judicial Circuit Adult Recovery Court is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and all donations and contributions are fully tax deductible. A receipt of your donation with a certificate and letter will be mailed to you.

Mark your calendar for June 13th for the 6th Highway, Hogs and Hillbillies Poker Run.

Highways, Hogs and Hillbillies Poker Run

D.A.R.E Family Fun Day June 13th

BATES COUNTY, Mo – Sheriff Anderson would like to invite Bates County children and their families to attend the D.A.R.E. Family Fun Day at the Bates County Sheriff’s Office on June 13th. Sheriff Anderson and his Administrative Staff organized this event so kids can interact with Sheriff’s Deputies.

With everything that has been going on lately in the media, Sheriff Anderson does not want our youth to be scared of Law Enforcement. If kids are scared, hurt or needs help in any way he wants them to know they can run to Law Enforcement, not run away from them. Sheriff Anderson wants kids to know that Law Enforcement Officers are their friends and are here to help them if the need arises.

The event will be held June 13th from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the west parking lot at the Bates County Sheriff’s Office. There will be bounce houses kids can play in. They will have a chance to Dunk-A-Deputy in the dunk tank or win a prize at one of the carnival games. Deputies will be cooking hot dogs, popcorn and snow-cones to give away. Kids will be able to look at police vehicles and see our K-9’s at work. Bring your camera so you can take your child’s picture with DAREN the Lion. The first 100 kids will get a free D.A.R.E. t-shirt.

We hope you mark your calendars and plan on attending this FREE event with your family.

D.A.R.E Family Fun Day June 13th

Giving Fore Living Banquet

BATES COUNTY, Mo – The Giving Fore Living banquet will be held on Friday, June 12th at the Adrian Optimist building in Adrian, MO. Doors will open at 6pm, and dinner will be served at 7pm.

Banquet tickets are $20 per person, children 12 & under are free. The menu includes: pork chops, cheesy potatoes, baked beans, slaw, and roll. Hamburgers are also offered for kids.

This year’s banquet will be featuring the band Breakaway and a special guest speaker, Larry Lefferts. Tickets can be purchased at the door.

Don’t miss the 3rd annual Giving Fore Living banquet, Friday, June 12th.

Giving Fore Living Banquet

Butler Co-Ed Softball Sign ups June 15th

The Butler Parks and Recreation Department is looking for Co-Ed Softball Leagues. The deadline to sign up is 3 pm, June 15th. Register on the web or call P and R Office 660-200-2062 . www.mo-butler.civiccities,com . look for the link for 2015 sign-ups .

Butler Co-Ed Softball Sign ups June 15th

May Rain Totals

Rain-swelled creeks and rivers were overflowing across parts of Missouri in the month of May. Rains have been heavy this spring.

May was the sixth wettest on record. Some of the contiguous United States must have felt as if it was biblical times with amount of rainfall.

For area residents it was not quite that much as we saw 10 days with no precipitation for May in Butler. Butler did see 2.27” fall on the 7th, which was the most in one day during the record totals. State of Missouri May average for precipitation is 5.91”, areas in West Central Missouri saw average totals climb to 9.97” , just throwing another curve for area farmers during spring planting. Official total at the Butler Water Plant was 9.21”, compared to totals of 10.78” in Appleton City and 11.01” in Nevada, while El Dorado Springs 8.76” and Monett 9.97”. 1993 was the wettest year on record for the state of Missouri with 56.90”, Maryville, Missouri that year in July received 25.71”.

The World record Rainfall intensity was 12” in 42 minutes in Holt, Missouri. Perhaps it was not quite that much in May but rain did fall in dramatic totals in 20 states. In 121 years of record keeping never had an average of 4.36” of precipitation fallen on the contiguous United States as it did in May.

May Rain Totals

Help Wanted

A Shirt Alert/Signed by Charlie is looking for someone with some screen printing knowledge/experience to work 2-3 days per week. Printing work only. Will not need to deal with the public. Pay based on experience. If you know anyone who might be a good fit, contact information or call at 816-332-0779.

Help Wanted

Hume Fair Royalty Sought

BATES COUNTY, Mo – The excitement is building for the annual Hume Fair and Rodeo which will be held this year July 28th through August 1st.

This year’s theme is “Join the Country Stampede at the Hume Fair and Rodeo and Prince and Princess Candidates are needed between the ages of 5 and 12 years of age.

Rodeo Queen Candidates are needed between 13 and 18 years of age. If you are interested in becoming a candidate contact any fair board member or call 660-643-7637 or 7121. The deadline to enter is June 13th.

Hume Fair Royalty Sought

Butler Saddle Club Royalty Candidates

BATES COUNTY, Mo – The 63rd Annual Butler Saddle Club Rodeo is set for June 19th, 20th, and 21st at the Bates County Fairgrounds in Butler, Missouri. Butler Saddle Club Rodeo Queen and Princess candidates are out and about selling tickets. Princess candidates will be selling chances for a Western Saddle or choice of $300 cash for $1 per chance.

Queen candidate is selling chances for a Savage Rifle and Scope or $500 cash for $1 per chance. The queen candidate will also be selling ADULT ADMISSION for $8.00 each and CHILD ADMISSION for $5.00 each; admission price increases $2.00 per ticket at the gate.

2015 Queen Candidate:

Jessica Willerton:

Jessica Nicole Willerton is the 18 year old daughter of Jesse Willerton and Renee Welliver of Adrian, Missouri. She is a recent graduate of Adrian High School where she was active as the 14-15 FFA Vice President and succeeded in receiving her State FFA Degree. During the Bates County Fair she secured title as the 2014 Round Robin Grand Champion. Jessica enjoys showing sheep, trail riding, and showing horses at the fair. Three words that best describe Jessica are fun, happy, and fast! When asked which country song best describes her, Jessica said “Queen of my Double Wide Trailer” by Sammy Kershaw because she lives in a trailer house! Jessica’s role model is Miranda Lambert because she doesn’t let being a girl stop her from doing what she wants! For admission or raffle tickets please call: 816-719-6946.


2015 Princess Candidates:

Madison Klinksick:

Madison Christine Klinksick is the 12 year old daughter of Rhett and Kelly Klinksick of Rockville, Missouri. Madison is actively involved in junior high cheerleading and volleyball. Her interests outside of school include riding her horse, Babe, hanging with her BFF, Whitney, and attending rodeos. Three words that best describe Madison are fun, bold, and happy! When asked which country song best describes her, Madison said “Cowgirls Don’t Cry” by Brooks & Dunn because it encourages her to keep going! Madison’s role model is Brhett Mumma, because when she first saw Brhett ride it inspired her to start riding as well. For raffle tickets please call: 660-424-3019.


Maggie Stark:

Maggie Jayden Stark is the 10 year old daughter of Jared Stark and Karen Thomas of Adrian, Missouri. Maggie is actively involved in soccer and cheerleading. Her interests outside of school include riding horses, swimming, jumping on the trampoline, and playing with animals. Three words that best describe Maggie are kind, playful and generous. When asked which country song best describes her, Maggie said “Angel Eyes” because she can be kind of ornery! Maggie’s role model is her dad because he rides horses and shows her how to ride as well! For raffle tickets please call: 816-718-8851.

Butler Saddle Club Royalty Candidates

New Pharmacists Have Local Connections

BATES COUNTY, Mo – Butler and Bates County will welcome a new pharmacy in the near future. Summers Pharmacy is currently remodeling the building at 11 W. Dakota Street on the south side of the Butler Square and hopes to have their doors open by the first of July.

Summers Pharmacy is owned by Ryan and Julie Summers, who currently operate Summers Pharmacy in Clinton, and are excited to continue the same great service in the Butler area.

Ryan has a local connection. He is the son of Kent and Nancy Highley Summers of Clinton. Nancy is the daughter of the late LeRoy and Bonnie Highley of Adrian as well as the nephew of Owen and Sandy Highley, formerly of Adrian. Sandy was in the banking business in Butler for over 30 years, and Owen was the former manager of West Central Agriculture.

Summers Pharmacy is a welcome addition to our area, they will offer free delivery as one of their may extra services. Hours will be Monday through Friday 8:30am to 6:00pm Monday through Friday and on Saturday from 8:30 to noon.

New Pharmacists Have Local Connections

Butler Public Library Searching for Director

BUTLER, Mo – The Butler Public Library in Butler, Missouri is currently searching for a Library Director. The successful candidate must share our passion for library services in a rural setting.

Job responsibilities include working with the public, promoting the Butler Public Library through community interaction, planning monthly library activities for children and adults, and keeping accurate financial and circulation records. The successful candidate must have knowledge of budget preparation, administration, technology, employee supervision, and payroll management. Adaptability, diplomacy, and professional grace are desirable character traits. In general, the Director is responsible for managing the library in all areas.

The Director is directly responsible to the Butler Public Library Board. The successful candidate must meet educational standards relating to Library Science.

Submit a resume emphasizing library experience with 1 personal reference and 2 professional references before June 22, 2015 to:

The Butler Public Library Board

Butler Public Library

100 W. Atkison Ave.

Butler, Mo 64730

Butler Public Library Searching for Director

Hubert A. "Harvey" Taylor, Jr., 76 of Pleasanton, KS

Hubert A. “Harvey” Taylor Jr., age 76, of Pleasanton, Kansas passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2015. Funeral services will be held at 11 AM, Thursday May 28 at the Pleasanton First Christian Church. Burial will be in the Fisher Cemetery.

Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 27 at the Schneider Funeral Home and Crematory, Pleasanton Chapel. The family suggests contributions to the Harvey Taylor Memorial Fund.

Online condolences may be left at www.schneiderfuneral.com. Arrangements: Schneider Funeral Home and Crematory, Pleasanton.

Hubert A. "Harvey" Taylor, Jr., 76 of Pleasanton, KS

Charles William (C.W.) Mohr, 27 of Adrian, MO

Charles William Mohr, III “C.W.”, 27, of Adrian, MO passed away May 21, 2015. A visitation will be held Tuesday May 26, 2015 from 6pm to 8 pm at Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler (660-679-0009).

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 am Wednesday, May 27th at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Butler, MO. Burial will be in Crescent Hill Cemetery, Adrian, MO. Contributions are suggested in lieu of flowers to the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.

Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

Charles William (C.W.) Mohr, 27 of Adrian, MO

Butler High School Honor Roll

Grade Cards are ready to be picked up in the High School Office Monday-Friday 7:30-3:30.

Honor Roll 4th Q 2nd Semester

Butler High School Honor Roll

Bates County Sheriff's Activity Report

MAY 18, 2015

Agency Assist – Adrian

Suspicious Activity – Butler

C&I – Butler

Fail To Yield – Butler

Property Damage – Rockville

Theft – Butler

Animal Call – Butler

MAY 19, 2015

Agency Assist – Butler

MVA- Butler

Ambulance Request – Butler

CWB – Hume

Lost & Found – Butler

CWB – Archie

MVA – Passaic

Agency Assist – Butler

CWB – Hume

Agency Assist – Adrian

CWB – Foster

MAY 20, 2015

Animal Call – Adrian

Fraud – Archie

MVA- Butler

Animal Call – Butler

Animal Call – Drexel

Wanted Subject – Butler

Domestic – Adrian

Domestic – Adrian

Animal Call – Drexel

Theft – Adrian

Suicidal Subject – Butler

C&I – Butler

MAY 21, 2015

Stranded Motorist – Butler

Wanted Subject – Butler

Theft – Archie

Check Well Being – Rich Hill

Stranded Motorist – Hume

Stranded Motorist – Rich Hill

Controlled Burn – Butler

Suicidal Subject – Butler

MAY 22, 2015

Civil Standby – Appleton City

Animal Call – Butler

Death Investigation – Butler

Debris In Roadway – Butler

Traffic Hazard – Rockville

Burglary – Archie

Burglary – Adrian

Child Abuse – Drexel

MAY 23, 2015

911 Hang Up – Butler

Harassment – Butler

Alarm – Butler

Alarm – Adrian

Ambulance Request – Appleton City

Traffic Stop – Adrian

Animal Call – Rich Hill

Ambulance Request – Amsterdam

Vehicle Fire – Adrian

Animal Call – Rich Hill

Suspicious Vehicle – Amoret

Open Door – Amoret

MAY 24, 2015

Animal Call – Butler

Ambulance Request – Rich Hill

Agency Assist – Butler

Check Well Being – Butler

Disturbance – Rich Hill

Agency Assist – Butler

Suicidal Subject – Rich Hill

Suspicious Activity – Hume

Theft – Amsterdam

Check Well Being – Adrian

Rich Hill Activity Report

MAY 18, 2015

Controlled Burn

Speak To Officer

Wanted Subject

MAY 20, 2015

Noise Complaint

Suicidal Subject

MAY 21, 2015

Ambulance Request

Gun Shots Heard/Observed

Wanted Subject

Locked Vehicle (Child Inside)

Animal Call

Juvenile Problem

MAY 23, 2015

Animal Call

Animal Call

MAY 24, 2015

Ambulance Request

Disturbance

Suicidal Subject

Bates County Sheriff's Activity Report

Butler Police Department Police Activities

05/18/2015

Keep the peace Up Town Laundry

Assist MSHP

Theft 300 block of W Ohio

Well being check 100 block of S Main

Disturbance 200 block of E Nursery

Noise complaint 600 block of W Nursery

C and I driver 200 block of S Austin

Disturbance Flaming Lantern

Walk in Theft report

Medical assist 300 block of Bennett

05/19/2015

Medical assist 800 block of W Ohio

Animal complaint 400 block of S Main

Accident 200 block of S Birch

Well being check 600 block of W Pine

Alarm 400 block of S Fulton

Shop lifting call Casey’s Orange St.

Traffic assist Schowengert

Attempted break in 800 block of W Ohio

Traffic assist Schowengert

Animal complaint Fulton and Clark

Medical assist 500 block of W Vine

C and I driver report Mill St

05/20/2015

Well being check S Main

Leave without pay Conoco

Disturbance 800 block of W pine

Noise complaint S Park

05/21/2015

C and I driver W-52

911 mis dial

Theft report

Open door High School

Keep the peace 300 block of W Ohio

Animal complaint Longsinger

Medical assist 800 block of S Birch

Walk in theft report

Traffic assist Mullinax

Well being check Wal-Mart

Alarm 200 block of N Orange

05/22/2015

Medical assist 200 block of S Austin

Noise complaint 300 block of W Ft Scott

Disturbance 300 block of W Ohio

Medical assist S Fulton

Accident W-52 and Fran

Animal complaint 600 block of W Adams

Disturbance W-52 Rice Rd

Medical assist 400 block of S Delaware

05/23/2015

Disturbance Boy Scout Park

Animal complaint 200 block of W Atkinson

Alarm 1000 block of W Ft Scott

Animal complaint 600 block of W Harrison

C and I driver complaint S Main

05/24/2015

Animal complaint 300 block of S Mechanic

C and I driver W-52

Disturbance E Nursery by the Fair Grounds

Alarm High School

Accident 400 block of S Orange

Shop Lifter Wal-Mart

Disturbance Wal-Mart parking lot

Animal complaint N Fulton

Butler Police Department Police Activities

Man Charged with Assault and Armed Criminal Action

VERNON COUNTY, Mo – Charges have been issued for a rural Nevada man after Deputies responded to a call of “shots fired” in the Milo area Saturday afternoon.

According to the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office, Joshua L Schnedler, 34, has been charged with Assault in the Second Degree and Armed Criminal Action. Vernon County Sheriff Jason Mosher said Schnedler allegedly fired a weapon during a verbal dispute at a residence in Milo Saturday, and he confirmed that a weapon was seized at the scene of the incident. The charges include second degree assault, but the Sheriff said he could not release any other details about the assault at this time. “An assault did take place, but investigators are still following up on leads so we cannot release any details this time.”

The Sheriff said no one was hurt and Schnedler was taken into custody without incident. Schnedler is being held in the Vernon County Jail on a $25,000 cash only bond.

Man Charged with Assault and Armed Criminal Action

Robbery And Assault Being Investigated

HENRY COUNTY, Mo – On Saturday, May 23, 2015 at approximately 8:18 p.m. Deputy Charles Wilcox and Deputy Brady Graham responded to the 800 block of SE 523 Private Road on a possible assault.

At the scene, deputies discovered that the property owner had been assaulted, tied up and several items were missing from the home. The victim was transported from the scene by Golden Valley Ambulance.

Detective Sgt. Mike Nelson along with Sheriff Oberkrom and Major Hills also responded to the scene to investigate the incident. The investigation is continuing at this time.

Robbery And Assault Being Investigated

Driver Charged with Assault After Vehicle Pursuit

VERNON COUNTY, – According to court records, arrest warrants were issued Sunday for a driver who fled from the Nevada Police and the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office Saturday afternoon.

According to the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office, Cody J Boyd, 29 of Nevada has been charged with: Resisting Arrest/Stop by Fleeing, Assault, Operating a Motor Vehicle Without a Valid License, Operating a Motor Vehicle in a Careless and Imprudent Manner, and Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign.

According to Vernon County Sheriff Jason Mosher, Boyd was taken into custody by Deputies after a vehicle pursuit followed by a short foot pursuit when Boyd fled from her car at Talley Bend and Union Track Rd just South of Nevada. The Sheriff said Boyd attempted to go into a nearby house and when she could not get in, ran into the homeowner’s garage where she was apprehended. “Both agencies worked very well together during the incident and the violator was taken into custody without anyone getting hurt” Said Mosher.

Boyd was being held in the Vernon County Jail as of Monday and could be facing additional charges from the Nevada Police Department.

Driver Charged with Assault After Vehicle Pursuit

Rich Hill Memorial Library Receives Grant to Promote Early Literacy

Jefferson City, Mo. — Secretary of State Jason Kander announced that Rich Hill Memorial Library received a grant in the amount of $2,000 to establish or expand existing early literacy programming.

“This grant will help Rich Hill Memorial Library bolster early literacy programming that makes sure children are ready to read by the time they begin school,” Kander said. “I’m proud my office is again able to increase learning opportunities and resources that help make Missouri’s libraries some of the best in the nation.”

The secretary of state’s literacy and educational enrichment grants are funded by the Library Services and Technology Act through the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, which is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s 122,000 libraries and 17,500 museums. The Institute’s mission is to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas.

In the 2015 fiscal year, the Missouri State Library, a division of Kander’s office, has approved a total of 178 grant applications, distributing $1,111,720 in federal awards to libraries throughout Missouri.

Rich Hill Memorial Library Receives Grant to Promote Early Literacy

Celebrating Memorial Day

BUTLER, Mo – Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the people who died while serving in the country’s armed forces.

The holiday, which is observed every year on the last Monday of May, was formerly known as Decoration Day and originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the war. By the 20th century, Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who died while in the military service. It typically marks the start of the summer vacation season, while Labor Day marks its end.

Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, particularly to honor those who have died in military service. Many volunteers place an American flag on each grave in national cemeteries.

Memorial Day is not to be confused with Veterans Day; Memorial Day is a day of remembering the men and women who died while serving, while Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans.

Celebrating Memorial Day

American Legion Memorial Day Observance

BUTLER, Mo – The American Legion will hold a Memorial Day observance on Monday, May 25th at the Butler Cemetery on the east side near the Veteran’s Plot beginning at 11am. The observance is open to the public and Father Tom Hermes will be speaking.

American Legion Memorial Day Observance

James Barton Horn Fatally Shot by Major Case Squad

Police say a Rural Missouri Major Case Squad team fatally shot James Barton Horn, who was accused of holding his girlfriend captive for four months and then killing her and her teenage son after she escaped.

Clinton, MO, police said Horn was found in an abandoned home in the Kearn Memorial Conservation Area located off of Hope Dale Road about 11:15 a.m Saturday morning. The conservation area is very large and covers both Pettis and Johnson County, MO. The house’s locations was about a half mile from the Pettis County line in Johnson County.

Lt. Sonny Lynch with the Clinton Police Department said, based on some leads that came in Friday night, a search team for the Rural Missouri Major Case Squad entered the home and found Horn in a closet.

He was armed, refused to surrender and threatened the search team with his weapon. They responded by shooting him. He died on scene.

Authorities believed Horn was armed and dangerous and had previously said they thought a friend or family member was helping him stay hidden.

Horn was accused of holding Sandra Sutton captive for four months, including forcing her to live in a wooden box and sexually assaulting her. Sandra Sutton, who had declined police protection, was living with her brother and sister-in-law in Clinton. Her son was a junior at Clinton High School, and his sister said he stayed with his mother in an effort to protect her.

The Sutton family was notified of Horn’s death.

The Kearn Memorial Conservation Area is owned by the Missouri Department of Conservation. It’s a fairly large public land that people use for outdoor recreation like hunting, fishing and hiking.

James Barton Horn Fatally Shot by Major Case Squad

Howard Hellwig at Pleasant Gap Christian Church

BATES COUNTY, Mo – Howard Hellwig, a Butler graduate will be speaking at the Pleasant Gap Christian Church on Sunday, May 24th, beginning at 6pm.

Howard served 3 years as a Vista Volunteer in southern Appalachia and 14 years as a missionary in Paraguay, Micronesia, Cambodia and Indonesia. He is currently the stateside coordinator for the Fe India Children’s Mission in Andhra Pradesh state, India.

You are invited to an enlightening evening to see how God is working in the remotest regions of the world.

Pleasant Gap Christian Church is located 9 miles east of Butler or 9 miles west of Appleton City on Highway 52, then 3 miles south on O Highway.

Howard Hellwig at Pleasant Gap Christian Church

Driver Charged with Assault - Causing Accident

VERNON COUNTY, Mo – The driver of a vehicle that was involved in a collision with a semi on West 54 Hwy has been taken into custody. According to court records, an arrest warrant was issued Thursday afternoon for 34 year old BillyW Willett, of Fort Scott, KS for Assault – 2nd Degree, and Resisting/Interfering With Arrest.

According to the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office, the vehicle driven by Willett turned off of 54 Hwy when the deputy activated his lights, but instead of stopping, took off, drove through a stop sign and pulled back onto 54 Hwy in front of an oncoming Semi causing the semi to hit Willetts car.

According to Vernon County Sheriff Jason Mosher, a passenger was transported by ambulance and Willett was taken into custody. “The vehicle took off when the deputy turned on his lights and ran a stop sign and caused an accident that resulted in injuries to the passenger in the vehicle with him. When someone acts recklessly and causes someone to get hurt you can be responsible for that” said Mosher.

The Sheriff also said additional charges may be filed in the future when the investigation is complete but could not give any more details at this time. Willett is being held in the Vernon County Jail on a $10,000 bond.

Driver Charged with Assault - Causing Accident