Mid America Live

Obituary - Dennis McCoy

2026-11-05T09:34:31.427-06:00

Dennis LeRoy McCoy, 82 of Nevada, passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Medicalodges of Nevada. Dennis was born on December 14, 1943, in Nevada to Logan Ray and Betty (Plummer) McCoy. He married the love of his life, Connie Grace, on July 4, 1964, and she survives of the home in Nevada.

Dennis attended Nevada High School and then graduated from Metz High School in 1961. Dennis served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1966-1968 attaining the rank of Sergeant. Following his time in the service he returned home to Nevada and owned and operated McCoy Service Station from 1974 until his retirement in 2008 when he suffered a stroke. Dennis was an outdoorsman and an avid mushroom hunter.

He also coached his daughter’s teams in softball and supported his children in all of their activities.

In addition to his wife Connie, Dennis is survived by his two children, Denise McCoy of Tucson, AZ and Logan McCoy and his wife Kimberly of Chicago, IL and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Larry McCoy and his beloved dog and best friend, Maggie his Yellow Lab.

A graveside Committal Service with Military Funeral Honors will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday November 19, 2026, in the National Cemetery, Ft. Scott, Kansas, officiated by Ray Dean Scism.

Those who wish may contribute to Wounded Warriors in care of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada, MO.

#MidAmericaLive

Obituary - Marie Elizabeth Cramer

2026-11-05T09:26:28.621-06:00

Marie Elizabeth Cramer, 87, departed this life on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Crown Care Rehabilitation Center in Harrisonville, Missouri.

Marie was born on February 18, 1939, to John and Catherine Mohan in Malden, Massachusetts.

Marie was a strong, independent woman who lived life to the fullest. Throughout her life, she held a variety of jobs, showcasing her many talents and strong work ethic. Her career took her to Dallas, Texas, before she eventually made her way to Missouri.

Marie was known for her outgoing personality and was truly a social butterfly. She loved meeting new people, making friends, and enjoying good conversation. She had a passion for traveling and never hesitated to take a trip on her own. Some of her favorite destinations included the beach, warm-weather getaways, and Branson, Missouri. She also enjoyed shopping, cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals, and watching her favorite television show, The Golden Girls.

Marie loved spending time in the kitchen, especially preparing Italian dishes and baking. She had a lifelong love for dogs, who always held a special place in her heart. Her beloved dog, Daisy, was her most recent companion.

Marie was a devoted Catholic whose faith played an important role in her life. She served as a Eucharistic Minister and remained strong in her faith throughout the years. Her independent spirit, friendly personality, and love for others will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Marie was preceded in death by her son, William Joseph McIntyre.

She is survived by her daughter, Pamela Dicey, and her husband, Danny Dicey, of New Hampshire.

Cremation has been planned, with no services scheduled at this time.

#MidAmericaLive

Obituary - Randall Eugene Smith

2026-11-05T09:23:25.606-06:00

A celebration of life will be announced in the springtime during Randall's favorite season. Care is entrusted to the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Obituary lovingly written by the family.

Randall Eugene Smith - Uncle Rudy, Rudy Tudy Punch-n-Judy, but NEVER Randy - was born on November 1, 1956, very past due, to Janis and Cecil Smith. Our mother has told us that as a child, he had thought Halloween was a party for his birthday, so - it all kind of worked out.

He would enter school as a sweet little, glasses wearing boy. And even though he loved Nellie Nicholas, he did not love school. But by the Grace of God and probably boxes and boxes of tissues and canned food for extra credit, he would graduate Butler HIgh School with the class of 1975.

In these years he enjoyed Boy Scouts with his mother as a Den Mother. But probably his greatest joys from this time of his life came from time spent at our grandparents’, Olin and Marie Borland’s, for Sunday dinners, afternoon fishing, and trekking through the timber. Summers there were spent learning about hard work with working small bales for 5 cents a bale. Hard work and hard luck were both lessons learned on Grandma and Grandpa’s farm. Don’t make a bet with an eight year old. Even when Randall did jump in the pond on Thanksgiving, Scott did not pay up. Turns out eight year olds in 1968 don’t have a lot of extra 20 dollar bills lying around.

Randall was an avid concert attendee. He saw some of the greatest bands of his time, seeing his favorite band The Rolling Stones several times. And if in the right “frame of mind”, he did, indeed, have the moves like Jagger. Always thrifty, when attending a Stones concert in the early 80’s, he bought his junior high sister an XL concert t-shirt stating, “They were all the same price, so I felt like I was getting more for my money.” He loved to talk about these concerts and some of the shenanigans that he managed to get into. It was the 70’s. We’ll move on.

Randall was a lover of animals, especially dogs…maybe more than people. He had a very mild-mannered disposition, (Some Lodge gals might disagree here - don’t mess with his socks!) but when he witnessed a vehicle stop and drop a litter of puppies, he was waiting for them in the road after they had turned around to head back to town. Guess also, don’t mess with dogs.

Fireworks, amusement parks, the Kansas City Chiefs- he loved it all. Although he did learn not to light firecrackers with a cigarette over a gallon can full of firecrackers. If that cherry falls off in that can, it will sound like a Civil War reenactment, and they will blow right up the bell bottoms. More recently he had enjoyed rides to the City Lake, always hoping to spot one of the two Blue Herons we had named Lenny and Squiggy. Games and activities, especially Dominos and Poker, at the Lodge were a favorite, but not those crafts that “only the ladies do”.

The job that he was proudest to hold was at the City of Archie Water Utilities. He beamed when his responsibilities were described by one of his nieces as “one big science experiment”.

But mostly he loved his family. His nieces were all the things to him. Always game for the summer outdoor fight toys (because THAT seems like a great idea) and walks to the bridge. If he were in charge, it was pajamas til noon…okay 4:00. He shared with them his love of fine TV such as MTV’s Scared, Austin Powers, and more recently, Dr. Pimple Popper. (You know which one you are.) And his momma - quick to call attention to, well, anything that he thought she needed as they became hall mates at the Lodge. Kept pretty good tabs on her anytime she left her room.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Thomas and Mamie (Hart) Smith of Appleton City, MO;

maternal grandparents Olin and Marie (Chitwood) Borland of Butler, MO;

his father Cecil Smith of Butler, MO.

He leaves behind his sweet momma, Janis Darlene;

His brother Scott Smith (Nancy) of Emporia, KS; his nieces Amy Delgado (Mason), Emporia, KS; Juanita Rodriguez, Kansas City, KS; and Brandi Smith, Emporia, KS;

Also his sister, Sheryl Hannah (Kirk), his nieces Kassidy Gerke (Kyle) and Makenna Page (Devon) all of Butler, MO.

We believe that his final years at The Lodge were truly some of his best. He was met with care, respect, love, and grace which fostered an interest in being involved, and his community was created. He was actually kinda spoiled with his chair always reserved and waiting at the games and activities.

With this being said - if you would like to send any kind of a memorial gift in Randall’s honor, please send it to The Medicalodge of Butler, Attn: Activities, 103 E. Nursery St., Butler, MO 64730. And also, the dogs…pet all the dogs.

With love, the Family of Randall Smith (11/01/1956-10/31/2026)

#MidAmericaLive

BHS All-Conference volleyball honors

2026-11-05T03:02:00.000-06:00

.

#MidAmericaLive

Nevada police to implement new drone program this month

2026-11-05T02:43:00.000-06:00

This month, the Nevada Police Department will begin implementing a new drone program to enhance our capabilities and provide additional resources to our officers and first responders.

Today, officers participated in hands on training with certified instructors, learning the operation and deployment of our department’s new drone equipment.

As we get the program started, our department will have two FAA certified and licensed drone pilots who will be trained and ready to deploy in a variety of situations. This technology will provide valuable assistance during emergency responses, searches for missing persons, critical incidents, crash investigations, and numerous other situations where an aerial perspective can make a difference.

Our drone pilots will also be available to assist neighboring law enforcement agencies and other first responders when mutual aid is requested.

We are continually looking for ways to improve our equipment, training, and resources to better serve our community. Adding this technology is another step toward ensuring our officers and first responders have the tools they need when responding to calls for service. 

#MidAmericaLive

It's never too late to quit...

2026-11-05T02:08:00.000-06:00

When most people think about lung cancer, they connect it to smoking. But while smoking is the biggest risk factor, there’s much more to know about this disease. In fact, some common beliefs about who gets lung cancer, what causes it and who should be screened simply aren’t true. Clearing up these myths can help you make better decisions about your health.

Myth #1: Only smokers get lung cancer

Fact: Anyone can get lung cancer. Smoking is the leading cause, but about 10% to 20% of lung cancers in the U.S. occur in people who have never smoked or have smoked fewer than 100 cigarettes in their lifetime. Other risk factors include exposure to radon, secondhand smoke, air pollution, asbestos and certain chemicals in the workplace. Family history may also play a role.

Myth #2: If you smoked for years, quitting won’t make a difference

Fact: It’s never too late to quit. Lung cancer risk goes down after you stop smoking, even if you smoked for many years. Quitting also lowers your risk of other cancers, heart disease and lung disease. The sooner you quit, the more you benefit, but stopping at any age is good for your health.

Myth #3: Secondhand smoke isn’t enough to cause lung cancer

Fact: You don’t have to smoke a cigarette yourself to be exposed to harmful tobacco smoke. Secondhand smoke contains cancer-causing substances and can cause lung cancer in people who don’t smoke. Avoiding cigarette, cigar and pipe smoke in your home, car and other places can help lower your exposure.

Myth #4: Radon isn’t something most people need to worry about

Fact: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that you can’t see, smell or taste. It can enter homes through cracks and other openings in the foundation. Long-term exposure can cause lung cancer, even in people who have never smoked. The only way to know the radon level in your home is to test it.

Myth #5: You don’t need lung cancer screening if you feel healthy

Fact: Screening is meant to find cancer before symptoms appear. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends yearly low-dose CT scans for adults ages 50 to 80 who have at least a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years. A pack-year equates to smoking an average of one pack of cigarettes a day for one year or a half pack of cigarettes a day for two years.

Myth #6: Everyone should be screened for lung cancer

Fact: Lung cancer screening isn’t recommended for everyone. For people at lower risk, the potential harm of screening may outweigh the benefits. Your age and smoking history help determine whether screening makes sense for you.

Knowing the facts about lung cancer is important, especially if you smoke, used to smoke or have other risk factors. Talk to your doctor about your personal risk and whether there are steps you should take to protect your lung health, as well as whether screening is right for you.

Looking for more health and wellness information? Visit the Health Library on the Bates County Memorial Hospital website to explore additional articles and resources.
-----
Copyright Baldwin Publishing/HealthEcooks.com

#MidAmericaLive

KBRPC awarded $25k Rural Development Grant

2026-11-05T01:37:00.000-06:00

CLINTON, MO – The Kaysinger Basin Regional Planning Commission (KBRPC) has been awarded a $25,314 Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development to advance its Regional Community Development Plan serving Bates, Benton, Cedar, Henry, Hickory, St. Clair, and Vernon counties.

The project builds upon the initial planning phase funded by the Truman Regional Community Development Corporation (TRCDC). Recognizing the importance of continued regional planning, TRCDC has committed an additional $20,000 in cash matching funds to support the project. Combined with the USDA award and other matching contributions, the total project investment is $46,596.

The Regional Community Development Plan will identify local needs and establish strategies for infrastructure improvements, community facilities, economic development, and community engagement. KBRPC will seek input from residents, local officials, businesses, and community stakeholders to develop county-specific priorities and actionable recommendations.

“Many of our rural communities have important projects they want to pursue, but limited staff, resources, and funding often make it difficult to move those projects forward,” said Ashley Swartz, KBRPC Executive Director. “This grant gives us an opportunity to work directly with our communities to identify priorities and develop practical strategies for addressing those needs. Our goal is to provide communities with a resource they can use to plan for the future, pursue funding opportunities, and turn their priorities into meaningful projects.”

Once complete, the plan will give local governments and community partners a resource to support grant applications, capital improvement planning, and future investment decisions. The project is expected to be completed by September 30, 2027.

USDA Rural Development’s Rural Business Development Grant program supports projects that promote economic development and strengthen small and emerging businesses in rural communities.

KBRPC serves seven counties in west-central Missouri, providing regional planning, economic and community development assistance, and grant administration services to local governments and community partners.

For more information, contact Ashley Swartz at (660) 885-3393 or ashley@kaysinger.com

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

#MidAmericaLive

Rich Hill Senior Spotlight- Leeanna Bell

2026-11-05T01:32:00.000-06:00

.

#MidAmericaLive

Baptist Homes of Adrian Employee of the Month, Katie Cox

2026-11-05T01:02:00.000-06:00

Baptist Homes of Adrian November employee of the month is Katie Cox

She does housekeeping, but this last month she has done a lot more than that. She is always trying to do anything to help the nursing staff, kitchen, laundry and even activities! Your laugh is contagious as well as your smile! We love having you on our team! Well deserved Katie!

Courtesy Baptist Homes of Adrian

#MidAmericaLive

BCMH salutes Medical Surgical Nurses Week

2026-11-04T12:06:42.878-06:00

Recognizing Bates County Memorial Medical-Surgical Nurses

Much of what keeps patients safe during a hospital stay happens behind the scenes. Medical-surgical nurses are continually assessing patients for changes in condition, coordinating care with other health professionals, reviewing medications, helping prevent falls and infections, and monitoring progress toward recovery goals.

Their work involves countless clinical decisions and safety checks throughout every shift. Often, they're the ones who recognize potential complications early and help ensure patients receive the care they need.

During Medical-Surgical Nurses Week, we recognize our Med-Surg nursing team for the knowledge, attention to detail and dedication they bring to patient care every day. Thank you for all you do!

Recognizing our team:
Abi Harris, CNA
Bob Dickinson, CNA
Megan Margrave, CNA
Emma Burnett, CNA
Jessica Nieder, CNA
Diane Meyer, CNA
Kyleigh Warner, CNA
Brenda Burkholder, RN
Teri Cashell, RN
Glennda DeRousse, RN
Kalinda Dulier, RN
David Galvan, RN
Kristl Gearhart, RN
Annie Ghere, RN
Kelsey Grimsley, RN
Kylie McLay, RN
Carissa Margrave, RN
Rhiannon Mizell, RN
Kzenia Norbury, RN
Kelly Otter, RN
Allen Robinson, RN
Kerri Snyder, RN
Karalee Terry, RN
Tiffany Vernon, RN
Jamie Wislon-Krohn, RN

#MidAmericaLive

Vernon county MO election results

2026-11-04T12:04:18.145-06:00

Click images to enlarge, save or print

.

#MidAmericaLive

Cass county MO election results

2026-11-04T11:59:20.677-06:00

Click images to enlarge, save or print

.

#MidAmericaLive

Local Business Spotlight: Adrian Bank

2026-11-04T11:47:01.657-06:00

For today's Business Spotlight, we are thrilled to feature one of our incredible community pillars: Adrian Bank

When we talk about the strength of a rural community, we talk about partners who invest right back into the places we call home. Adrian Bank is a true hometown bank, dedicated to providing the financial tools you need with the personal, friendly service you can only get from neighbors.

Whether you are running a local business, planning for the future, or purchasing a home, their team is there to help you unlock your financial dreams. From local checking and savings to competitive loans and convenient mobile banking, they blend modern convenience with deep-rooted community confidence.

Wherever your goals take you, Adrian Bank is with you every step of the way!

Thank you, Adrian Bank, for your continued support of our local economy, our small businesses, and our community's growth. We are proud to have you as a valued member of our Chamber family!

 Learn more about their services or find a branch near you at https://adrianbank.com or give them a call at 1-800-982-1334.

Courtesy Butler Area Chamber of Commerce

#MidAmericaLive

Notice to Appleton City residents

2026-11-04T11:41:40.513-06:00

Public Notice: Water Meter Replacement

H2O Solutions will be working throughout town over the next month to replace residents’ water meters. Residents can recognize the two-person crew by their high-visibility shirts and black Dodge Ram truck.

The new meters will use cellular technology to provide more accurate daily readings, helping identify leaks sooner. Readings for monthly billing will be taken on approximately the same day each month, which should make the billing periods more consistent.

If you have any questions, please contact Appleton City city hall.

#MidAmericaLive

Notice from the Adrian Community Theater

2026-11-04T11:24:10.052-06:00

Due to an unfortunate event, the Adrian Community Theater November 2026 performances of Death’s Desire are postponed. We understand this may be disappointing and appreciate your patience and understanding.

Thank you for your continued support of Adrian Community Theater

#MidAmericaLive

Land for sale

2026-11-04T11:20:52.414-06:00

FOR SALE 138 acres on TT highway near I-49 in Vernon county. Call for info 660-200-5762 or 660-464-0077

#MidAmericaLive

Cass Career Center fire update

2026-11-04T10:58:21.707-06:00

On Friday evening, Oct. 30, a fire occurred at Cass Career Center. Thankfully, no students or staff were inside the building at the time. Since then, our district has been working diligently to coordinate temporary classroom arrangements, adjust transportation, and ensure CCC students can continue their education.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. While the fire damage was primarily in the agriculture area, the entire building was affected by smoke. Extensive cleaning and remediation will be needed, and we do not yet have a timeline for when students and staff can return.

In the meantime, CCC students are continuing their education at temporary locations. Our priority remains providing students with the instruction and opportunities needed to complete their programs and earn their certifications.

A huge thank-you to Harrisonville United Methodist Church, the Harrisonville Community Center, Country Creek Golf Course, and the many other local businesses and organizations helping provide learning spaces and support. We are also grateful to our staff across the district who have stepped up to help! As we continue to identify additional needs for our CCC students and staff, we may reach out to our community for further support.

 Thank you to our entire #WildcatFamily for your patience, flexibility, and support as we work to keep our students learning and move forward together. 

#MidAmericaLive

Bates County Memorial Hospital Names Nick Head as November Employee of the Month

2026-11-04T07:52:10.747-06:00

Bates County Memorial Hospital is pleased to recognize Nick Head as its November Employee of the Month. Nick has been part of the BCMH Information Systems team since 2018, providing technical assistance to employees across the organization.

While many hospital employees work directly with patients, others provide essential support behind the scenes to help keep daily operations running smoothly. Information Systems is one of those departments, helping employees navigate the technology and systems they depend on throughout the workday.

Nick was nominated by a coworker who highlighted his kindness, patience and willingness to help with everything from minor technology issues to coordinating support with outside vendors.

“Nick’s commitment to excellence and building positive relationships within our health system is top tier,” the nomination stated.

The coworker also expressed appreciation for Nick's ability to explain things clearly and his consistent willingness to provide assistance whenever needed.

BCMH congratulates Nick on being named November Employee of the Month and thanks him for the positive difference he makes for his coworkers and the hospital.

Stay connected with your local hospital! Visit https://bcmhospital.com/news/

#MidAmericaLive

Little Apple news

2026-11-04T07:51:05.180-06:00

November 4, 2026

Unofficial St Clair Co election results: State Auditor: Fitzpatrick 2464 Wilson 732 Coffell 87 State Rep #126: Kalberloh 2512 Perry 777

US Rep #4: Alford 2429 Herrera 769 Holbrook 100 State Senator #28: Alexander 2412 McCaffree 869

MO SC Judges: Wilson – yes 1795 no 1555 MO Appeals Judge: Hammer – yes 2132 no 912

Amendment 3: yes 2117 no 1205 Amendment 6: yes 1427 no 1869 Amendment 7: yes 1433 no 1831 Amendment 8: yes 2098 no 1176

Prop A: yes 1553 no 1717 *****No other results were available at the time of publication*****

The GFWC-Achievers 46th Auction will be held 6:00 p.m. Monday November 9 in the ACHS West Building Commons Area in Appleton City. You will find gift baskets, baked goods, great gift ideas, door prizes and a chance to win the jackpot in the 50/50. Col. Jack Fennewald will be the auctioneer/entertainer. Come join them for an evening of fun. Homemade pie will be served. Everyone is WELCOME, including guys! As in the past, this group of Federated Women will again be raising monies for another local project.

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

St. Mary’s School (Montrose) Endowment Board are sponsoring a Chili Summer November 7 from 5:00-8:30 in the school basement. Chili, hot dogs, desserts and drinks will be available for a free will donation.

Ellett Memorial Hospital is hosting a Veteran's Day breakfast to those who have served in the military and their spouses in the dining room from 7:30 to 9:00a.m Wednesday, November 11. They wish to honor those who sacrificed to give us all our blessings we have today.

December 5, 2026 is Appleton City’s 30th annual Christmas in the Country. The Depot Craft Show is scheduled 9:00-2:00 and it features handmade items made by area crafts people. Please call Kenna Bartz at 660-200-6370 for craft show information. This event is sponsored by the Appleton City Museum. All groups and organizations are encouraged to plan activities for this fun filled day.

Amy Raybourn is Parent Educator for the Appleton City PAT program. She has been a teacher for 29 years. This is her second year as a Parent Educator for Parents as Teachers. Parents as Teachers is a program for families with children ages birth to kindergarten. They also serve families who are expecting. Whether you have participated in the PAT program in the past or would like to start, PLEASE contact her at 660-476-2108 or araybourn@appletoncity.k12.mo.us.

Growing in Grace Community Center will be delivering Thanksgiving meals, November 22 at 2:00 p.m. Message 660-492-3425 for a meal of turkey, mashed pot and gravy, stuffing, green bean casserole, roll, and pie

University of Missouri Extension of St. Clair County will host an informational course in estate planning 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 17 at the Forest Park Building, 206 E. 5th Street in ACMO. Participants may register in advance by visiting https://pears.io/events/mu/11210/ or by calling (417) 646-2419. Walk-in attendees are also welcomed. The cost is $15/person or $25/couple. In this course, participants will see a fictional family who has done no estate planning. As life circumstances occur, participants will see the unintended consequences of having done no estate planning. After learning what all goes wrong, we’ll examine the tools available in an estate plan, and then apply those tools to our fictional family to see how it might have changed their outcome. The purpose of the course is to demonstrate the importance of estate planning in general, but also to give participants more knowledge about estate planning tools and how they might apply so that they are better prepared when they meet with their own estate planning attorneys. This course will be taught by a licensed attorney with 20 years of experience in probate and estate planning.

AC Rural Health Clinic has flu vaccines available. Call 660-476-2121 to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome from 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Nominations are being accepted for the January 17-23 public election of St. Clair County’s University of Missouri Extension Council. Candidate recommendations may be made by contacting the county extension center, (417) 646-2419. Nominees will then be contacted to secure their permission before being placed on the ballot. Nominations for the 5 open positions must be made prior to December 11, 2026. 3 Candidates are needed from the North District (Appleton, Monegaw, Chalk Level, Butler, Jackson, Center Osage and Taber Townships). 2 Candidates are needed from the South District (Osceola, Polk, Dallas, Doyal, Roscoe, Speedwell, Washington and Collins Townships). In St. Clair County, they are seeking people from all walks of life who are interested in education and the progress of our communities, to serve on the extension council. Council candidates must be at least 18 years old and reside in the district they represent. The St. Clair County Extension Council meets on the first Tuesday of February, April, June, August, October and December. Missouri state statues create county extension councils to work with University of Missouri Extension. Council members assist in planning and carrying out extension programs in their county, providing local extension governance and representing the diversity of the county’s changing population.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Nov 7 St. Mary’s School (Montrose) Endowment Board Chili Summer 5:00-8:30 in the school basement

Nov 8 Knights of Columbus pancake and sausage breakfast 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. at the Knights Hall in Montrose

Nov 9 GFWC-Achievers 46th Auction 6:00 p.m. in the ACHS West Building Commons Area

Nov 11 Veterans Day Holiday

#MidAmericaLive

Clearway Energy makes monetary donation to Amsterdam, Amoret

2026-11-04T07:49:21.927-06:00

Barry Matchett, Head of External Affairs for Clearway Energy Group (on far left) presented a check to the city of Amoret for $125,000 and another $25,000 will soon be presented to the city on behalf of the Blattner Company, who is overseeing construction of the solar farm project in western Bates county. In the photo below, the same presentation was made to the city of Amsterdam on Monday as Matchett presented a check to Mayor Shane Gerleman and likewise, Amsterdam will receive $25,000 from the Blattner Company as well.

Monday evening Barry Matchett, representing Clearway Energy on behalf of the Swan Solar project which will be located in western Bates county, made a monetary donation to the cities of Amsterdam and Amoret to use for infrastructure and/or upgrades as needed.

As part of the presentation, Matchett noted that the donations have been made to demonstrate that Clearway and Blattner are "Good corporate citizens" and both companies wish to maintain a positive working relationship with the community.

Matchett went on to say that both towns are to expect additional yearly stipends with amounts to be announced.

In the presentations, it was also noted that Bates County is also to receive five new storm sirens with an approximate value of $40,000 each, which Amsterdam and Amoret each will receive one.

Barry Matchett (left) presents a check for $125,000 to the city of Amsterdam, received by Mayor Shane Gerleman.

#MidAmericaLive

A strong finish for the Jr. High Lady Hornets

2026-11-04T07:45:49.684-06:00

Congratulations to the Junior High Lady Hornets as they finished 3rd Place in the Hume Tournament last week.

Courtesy Hume Schools

#MidAmericaLive

Briley Steuck named to WEMO All-Conference team

2026-11-04T07:43:15.205-06:00

.

#MidAmericaLive

Local Class 2 District 13 Honorees

2026-11-04T07:35:22.836-06:00

Congratulations to the Lady Bear All-District Honorees

Class 2 District 13 Honorees

1st Team All-District 
-Tandee Hiser: Butler 
-Kylee Dubray: Butler
-Kendall Roscher: Lone Jack 
-Taylor Nichol: Lone Jack 
-Grace Engeman: Adrian
-Daisey Fenton: Adrian
-Alexa Rodgers: Adrian

2nd Team All-District 
-Brielle Boswell: Lone Jack 
-Sydney Gach: Adrian
-Aubrey Rodgers: Adrian
-Kiersten Dubray: Butler
-Allie Thompson: El Do
-Adele Muir: Barstow
-Nyla Ballew: University Academy

Honorable Mention
-Cami Ridenour: Lone Jack
-Mykiah Felton: Sherwood
-Kadyn Cook: Butler 
-Maddix Robison: El Do
-Maci Walter: El Do
-Ialynn Howard: University Academy 
-Lilly Simpson: Barstow
-Lia Levin: Barstow

#MidAmericaLive

Obituary - Michael Wayne Barber

2026-11-04T07:31:43.022-06:00

Michael Wayne Barber was born on January 18, 1947, in Kansas City, Kansas. He made his home in Appleton City, Missouri, where he had lived since 1985. He passed away peacefully on November 2, 2026.

Michael proudly served in the United States Army from 1965 to 1970, completing two tours in Vietnam. During his service, he was a Specialist with the 1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry and also served as a helicopter gunner with the 229th Aviation.

Following his time in the military, Michael spent many years on the road as an over-the-road truck driver before becoming an owner/operator. He continued working until he was forced into medical retirement.

On June 10, 1978, Michael married the love of his life, Debbie Barber. Together they built a life and family filled with love and memories. They were blessed with two children, daughter Michele, born May 30, 1980, and son Eric, born July 3, 1983. His family continued to grow with the arrival of his beloved grandchildren: granddaughters Avery and Rylan, born July 1, 2009, and grandson Tyler, born November 15, 2009.

Outside of work, Michael enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved hunting, fishing, golfing, camping with his family, and making trips to the casino. He was a devoted Oklahoma football fan and enjoyed watching NASCAR. He treasured spending time with family and friends, making memories and enjoying every opportunity to be together.

While Michael enjoyed many things throughout his life, nothing meant more to him than his children and grandchildren. They were his greatest pride and joy, and the love he had for them was immeasurable.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Debbie Barber; daughter, Michele Burnett (Phil); son, Eric Barber; granddaughters, Avery and Rylan Burnett; grandson, Tyler Barber; several brothers and sisters; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald E. Barber; his mother, Virginia Foster; and his stepfather, James Foster.

The family has requested memorials be made to the Disabled American Veterans Association.

#MidAmericaLive

Obituary - Rebecca (Becky) Faye Holmes

2026-11-04T07:29:31.665-06:00

Rebecca (Becky) Faye Holmes, 67, of Nevada, MO passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, following a brief illness. She was born on November 29, 1958 in Neosho, MO to Clarence and Mary Joyce (Summers) Adams. She married Tim Holmes on July 11, 1988 and he survives of the home.

Becky graduated from Nevada High School in 1976. Together she and Tim built a life centered around family. Becky had a heart for children. She owned and operated Becky’s Daycare from 1986 to 2007 and spent 25 years as a foster parent, opening her home and heart to countless children. She also shared a love for animals, operating Silver Moon Cockers for more than 20 years.

Beyond her devotion to family, Becky treasured her friendships, shared laughter, and the adventures and memories made along the way. She leaves behind a lifetime of love and countless lives made better simply by knowing her.

She is survived by her husband, Tim; children, Dustin Thomas (Mandy), Tyler Holmes (Shelby), Stephanie Holmes (Ricky), Jacob Holmes, and Ethan Holmes (Katie); grandchildren, Colton, Landon, Preston, Tabitha, and River; and brother, Steve Craker. She was preceded in death by her mother, Joyce Adams.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada, with Pastor Bill Platt officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Vernon County Cancer Relief in care of Ferry Funeral Home.

Becky will be remembered for the love she gave, the laughter she shared, and the lasting place she holds in the hearts of those who knew her.

#MidAmericaLive