Michael Gene Davis, 68 of Butler

 Michael Gene Davis

July 17, 1956 - June 15, 2025

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MIchael Gene Davis's wishes were to be cremated and remembered with fond memories.  There are no public services at this time.  Arrangements under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) Butler, Missouri.  Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.

Michael Gene Davis, age 68 of Butler, Missouri, died Sunday, June 15, 2025 at the Butler Rehab Center after a lengthy illness.  He was born July 17, 1956 to Dale Davis and Neva Gunn in Kansas City, Missouri.

Michael is survived by three sons, Jason Davis of Blue Springs, Missouri, Brandon Davis of Grain Valley, Missouri and Patrick Davis Cruz of Independence, Missouri; daughter, Summer Davis of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; four brothers, Kenny Davis of Urbana, Missouri, Greg Davis of Chicago, Illinois, Dennis Davis and wife Nancy of Blue Springs, Missouri and Jeff Davis of Butler, Missouri; sister, Sandi and husband Johnny Leister of Amsterdam, Missouri; seven grandchildren; and seven nephews and nieces.  Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Neva Thompson of Butler, Missouri; father, Dale Davis; paternal grandmother, Gertrude Green of Overland Park, Kansas and grandfather, Ivan Davis of Springfield, Missouri; and maternal grandparents, Herman and Rose Gunn of Chicago, Illinois. 

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Robert Franklin Goens, “Frank” age 82 of Louisburg Kansas

 

Robert Franklin Goens, “Frank” age 82 of Louisburg Kansas, passed away on June 18, 2025 at his home in Louisburg.  Graveside services will be held 10:30 am Tuesday, June 24, 2025 in Rockville Cemetery, Louisburg, KS.  Services under the direction of Mullinax Funeral Home, Drexel Chapel (816-657-4400).  Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans.  Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

 

Frank was born on October 25, 1942, in Bargetown, Kentucky, the son of Reldie Mae Gilpin and William Edward Goens. He grew up Kentucky and moved around until he ended up in Kansas. Frank was drafted to the Army in 1965 and spent 2 years in the service in Alaska.  He was honorably discharged with the Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Service Medal. He worked for Fordyce hauling concrete until he retired and spent the rest of his years working on the farm.

 

Frank met and married Sue A. Goens 57 years ago, when they moved to Louisburg and established their family farm. They raised cattle, pigs, chickens, and he enjoyed planting a garden. He was known for the best watermelon and cantaloupes in town. When he wasn’t hard at work on the farm, he enjoyed hunting and fishing.

 

Frank was proud of his family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He had many friends and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was the true definition of a neighbor always checking in, helping with what he could.  He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

 

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, wife Sue Goens, and brothers, Randy and Billy Goens.  He is survived by his son Greg Goens and wife Airene, grandson, Alan Goens and wife Lindsay, granddaughter, Kelli Goens and fiancé Steve Smith, step-granddaughter Allen Pepito and Julio Alvarez, along with great-grandchildren, Wesley Goens and Hudson Flores.

 

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Southside Lumber Hiring Fork Lift Driver

 South Side Lumber of Butler is hiring a Fork Lift Truck Driver. References are required. The person they hire must have a work ethic  of arriving on time, dedication to show up each day, and willing to put in a full days work . Pay will be based on experience. They need a few good men to apply in person at 805 Rice Road in Butler. That’s a Fork Lift Truck Driver to join a team that will get the job done! Apply in person. Now hiring South Side Lumber of Butler.

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Michael S. Cole, age 55, of Passaic

 Michael S Cole, age 55 of Passaic, MO passed away Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at his residence.

A Celebration of Life service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, June 28, 2025 at the Passaic Community Church. No visitation. Inurnment at a later date. Contributions suggested to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. Online condolences may be sent to www.schowengerdtchapel.com

Michael is survived by two daughters, Cori Cole and companion Dusty Miller of Tulsa, OK, and Jami Cole and companion Mitch Seward of Butler, MO; 15 grandchildren; mother, Linda Cole of Passaic; siblings, Ashley Cole and companion Nellie, and Angelia Cumpton, all of Passaic; girlfriend Beth Chandler; three stepsons, Aaron Rich, Jeremy Kennedy and companion Nataushua, and Wyatt Chandler; one stepdaughter, Skylar Mann and companion Dylan; and numerous nephews and nieces.

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Bates County Elks Fireworks Display

 

Bates County Elks celebrate the 4th of July with one of the best assortments of fireworks in this area. Fireworks that cater to the children and the adults……there is something for everyone at the Bates County Elks Fireworks Stand! Check out “ The Gangster Series” finale cakes” offering jaw- dropping nighttime Ariel displays, from 15 to 30 shots. This finale sells for $35.99 each …. Buy 4 and get 1 free!  Light it… sit back …. and enjoy! Hundreds of styles of Fireworks to select from … from Snappers to Roman candles and fountains to spectacular aerial displays . Bates County Elks Fireworks Tent in the Family Center Parking Lot open June 26th through July 5th.

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Final Cast Call for Renaissance Festival Season

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 17, 2025

Final Cast Call for the 2025 Kansas City Renaissance Festival Season!

BONNER SPRINGS, KS — Missed the first round of casting? You’re in luck—the Kansas City Renaissance Festival is still filling roles for its 2025 Village Cast! Final casting is open through Saturday, July 12, and there’s still time to join the fun.

Whether you reached out earlier, started an application but didn’t finish, or are just now hearing about it—this is your chance to become part of the Festival magic.

We’re currently seeking Villagers and Specialty Performers, including:

·        Stilt walkers

·        Poi/hoop artists

·        Living statues

·        Sleight-of-hand magicians

·        And more!

No formal audition is required—just bring your energy, creativity, and commitment. This is a character-driven performance experience, and we’ll train you on everything you need to know.

If you previously contacted us but didn’t hear back—or if life got in the way—consider this your invitation to rejoin the process. We’ll do our best to honor your original character request if it’s still available.

To learn more and sign up, visit: https://kcrenfest.com/join-the-cast/

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 Douty’s Fireworks Stand, across from the Butler racetrack… Your local black cat dealer…Douty’s open now thru July 5^th… 10am to 11pm daily and 9am to midnight on July 4^th…Huge inventory… Family owned since 2014…Good Fireworks, Good Prices, and Good People…Douty’s Fireworks located across from the Butler Race track…Douty’s Fireworks wishing everyone a happy and safe 4^th of July…God Bless!

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ADRIAN LIONS CLUB FIREWORK STAND LOCATED AT 11 EAST MAIN IN ADRIAN OPEN JUNE 27TH THRU JULY 5TH. OFFERING A LARGE SELECTION OF FIREWORKS, FROM THE OLD RELIABLES TO THE ONES YOU’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE.  SIGN-UP TO WIN THE “GODFATHER” WITH NO PURCHASE NECESSARY.  ADRIAN LIONS CLUB FIREWORK STAND, NO GIMMICKS JUST GREAT PRICES. OPEN DAILY NOON-9 AND SATURDAY, SUNDAY AND THE 4TH & 5th 9-9.

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Bob Schowengerdt, age 81 of Independence (formerly of Butler)

Bob Schowengerdt, age 81 of Independence, MO, formerly of Butler, MO passed away Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at the St. Luke's Hospice House. Funeral services are pending with the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel.

Local survivors include a brother, Gary Schowengerdt and wife Trevalyn. A complete obituary will be provided when available.

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Henry County Sheriff’s Office Investigates Fatal Shooting in Finey Area

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

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

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

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

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

Harold D. James was initially held on a 24-hour investigative hold. On Thursday, June 18, 2025, the Henry County Prosecutor’s Office, led by Prosecutor Gray, formally charged James with Murder in the First Degree and Armed Criminal Action. He is currently being held with no bond.

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Bates County Sheriff's Office Apprehends Suspect After High-Speed Pursuit and Vandalism Incident

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

At approximately 5 p.m., a Detective with the Bates County Sheriff's Office was approached by a witness at Casey’s General Store in Adrian, Missouri, who observed an individual, later identified as Bradley Jones, operating a motorcycle at excessive speeds and in a dangerous manner on I-49, including passing vehicles on the shoulder and between lanes.

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

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

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

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

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

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Bates County Sheriff's Office Responds to Barricaded Subject in Domestic Incident

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

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

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

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

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

Felony Domestic Assault

Felony Unlawful Use of a Weapon

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

The Bates County Sheriff's Office reminds the public that domestic violence is a serious crime, and resources are available for victims and families.  If you or someone you knows needs assistance with finding help or support for domestic violence, contact the Community Resource Office at 660-464-4523.

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Day of Gratitude in Amsterdam July 19th

 Day of Gratitude – July 19th, 9AM–2PM

 Join the city of Amsterdam  at Rustic Rebel and Flyover State Coffee & Creamery on Main Street in Amsterdam,  for a special Day of Gratitude honoring their veterans. Enjoy food, coffee, live music, a silent auction, and more! All proceeds benefit the Battle Buddies Response Team and the  local Amsterdam VFW.

 T-shirts are available for purchase now and on the day of the event—wear yours to show your support! The Amsterdam Café and local shops will be open, so come out and help say thank you to those who served!

13138 North West Main Street in  Amsterdam.

 It all happens on July 19^th from 9 am until 2 pm in Amsterdam.

 

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 Amsterdam Hometown Café, on Main street, open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 6am to 2pm…Saturday and Sunday 8am to 2pm… Open for Dinner with special menu on Friday and Saturday 4pm to 8pm…Saturdays and Sundays all you can eat Breakfast Buffet from 8am to 10:30am…Sundays Lunch Buffet from 11am to 2pm. Amsterdam Hometown Café, on Main Street in Amsterdam.

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Corner Hardware Weekend Hours

 Corner Hardware of Butler will close on
Thursday, June 19^th at 1:00 pm. Corner Hardware

will remain closed on Friday, June 20^th and Saturday
June 21^st. Corner Hardware will be back to business as usual

On Monday. 

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