Anna Swanson, 87 of Butler

 

Anna Swanson, 87 of Butler, Missouri passed away Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at Bates County Memorial Hospital in Butler.  A visitation will be held from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm Saturday, June 20, 2026 at Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler (660-679-0009).  Funeral services will follow Saturday at 2:00 pm also at the funeral home.  Burial will take place in Mt. Washington Cemetery, Kansas City, Missouri.  Memorial contributions may be made to Double Branch Christian Church or the Butler Public Library.  Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.

 

Anna LaDonne Mannering Swanson was born December 12, 1938 in Kansas City, Missouri to James and Wanita Goddard Mannering.  She grew up in the Kansas City area and graduated from high school.  On June 15, 1956 Anna was united in marriage to Harry John Swanson.  They were married until his passing in 2022.  This year would have been their 70^th wedding anniversary. 

Anna’s first love was her family, and looked forward to all gatherings for family dinners and holidays.  She also enjoyed planting flowers and reading books.

 

Anna was preceded in death by her parents, husband Harry John Swanson, one sister, Erma Duchein, son-in-law Tim Ridley, and granddaughter Amanda Ridley.  She is survived by her daughter, Mindy Ridley of Eldorado Springs, MO., son, James Swanson and wife Judith of Clinton, MO., granddaughter, Virginia Richter and Michael Gerean, along with three great-grandchildren, Ezra, Raymond, and Maylee, all of Butler, MO.

 

Anna will be dearly missed and forever loved by her children, granddaughter, great-grandchildren, friends, extended family members, and all who knew her.

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Mark Mathies named new Butler City Administrator

 During this week's Butler city council meeting, a formal introduction was made welcoming Mark Mathies as the new City Administrator. Mark hails from Edwardsville, Kansas and enthusiastically introduced himself stating he's "ready to get to work and meet the citizens of Butler." 

Seen here is Mark with wife Rhonda and the couple are making their new home on the south edge of Butler. Mid America Live will be releasing more information soon as he officially begins employment on July 1st.

In other news, Butler resident Lindsay Henderson approached the council asking for a waiver for the June mowing of 8 acres she owns between Country Club and the soccer fields. Henderson wishes to continue preserving wildlife including birds, Monarch butterflies and others that inhabit the area. She went on to say that the easement is regularly mowed and maintained per her previous agreement with the city. She was granted the waiver on the condition that if a burn ban is in place, mowing will need to be done as soon as possible.

Police Chief Jarret Wheatley announced that the Butler police department is now eligible for a Blue Shield grant that will be in the neighborhood of $50,000 to $75,000 and he is moving forward with all the necessary paperwork. He, along with code enforcement officer Brenda Cecil asked the council for permission to buy a used lawnmower to use for abatements. The price was below book value and the council approved the purchase.

It was reported that work has been done that should alleviate future problems related to sludge getting into the filter system at the water plant. It was also said that some galvanized baffling in a clarifier has rusted and fallen to the bottom. Approval was given to begin replacement procedures and something other than galvanized material will be used to help insure it will last longer.

Decorations at Oak Hill Cemetery were the topic of a long discussion as following holidays, the materials can hamper mowing and weed eating around headstones. An update regarding protocol for decorations will be coming soon. On a related note, recent storms left large trees on the ground at the cemetery and cleanup will be done as soon as the ground is solid enough to not cause further damage.

Problems at the pool in relation to children left unattended or otherwise being unruly were also discussed as there have been calls for police to respond to the Aquatic Center. Enforcement of rules will remain a top priority and further action will be taken if needed.

In closing, it was duly noted that NO Butler parks are for sale nor will they be. Your Mid America Live news reporter jumbled a headline, resulting in a correction and damage control by councilman John Dudley. All is well now and I have to admit my plate of crow really wasn't that bad.

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

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BREAKING NEWS: Butler Man Charged with 8 Felony Charges of Deviate Sex Acts with a Female Minor

 Tommy Thomas, 67, of Butler MO is currently being held in the Bates County Jail on eight charges related to alleged deviate sex acts with a minor female child under the age of 12 in September of 2025.

The charges as follows:

1. Sodomy Or Attempted Sodomy - 1st Degree - Victim Is Less Than 12 Years Old { Felony Unclassified RSMo: 566.060 }

2. Sodomy Or Attempted Sodomy - 1st Degree - Victim Is Less Than 12 Years Old { Felony Unclassified RSMo: 566.060 }

3. Sodomy Or Attempted Sodomy - 1st Degree - Victim Is Less Than 12 Years Old { Felony Unclassified RSMo: 566.060 }

4. Sodomy Or Attempted Sodomy - 1st Degree - Victim Is Less Than 12 Years Old { Felony Unclassified RSMo: 566.060 }

5. Endangering Welfare of Child Creating Substantial Risk-1st Degree - 1st Offense - Sexual Contact { Felony D RSMo: 568.045 }

6. Endangering Welfare of Child Creating Substantial Risk-1st Degree - 1st Offense - Sexual Contact { Felony D RSMo: 568.045 }

7. Endangering Welfare of Child Creating Substantial Risk-1st Degree - 1st Offense - Sexual Contact { Felony D RSMo: 568.045 }

8. Endangering Welfare of Child Creating Substantial Risk-1st Degree - 1st Offense - Sexual Contact { Felony D RSMo: 568.045 }

Thomas is currently in custody in the Bates County Jail with a no bond condition. 

A full conviction will result in lifetime imprisonment with no parole.

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Adrian ACT Public Notice

 Due to a website glitch, we may not have received all registrations for the Summer Theater Workshop.

To make sure your registration was received, please complete the new, shorter registration form again at www.actadrian.com.  Even if you already registered, please do so again in case we didn't get your first registration.  We don't want anyone to miss out!

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding. Thank you!

ACT THEATER

www.actadrian.com

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Jerry Lee Stangel, age 71

Jerry Lee Stangel, at the age of 71, peacefully passed away in his sleep at his home outside of Papinville, MO. He was born in Nevada, MO to Paul and Catharine Stangel. He was raised and worked on his family farm his entire life.

In his 71 years of life, he was blessed with three children: Mendy, Michelle, and Roy, before being united in marriage on June 12, 2000 to his wife, Angela. With this union of marriage, he became a step father to three children: Matthew, Daniel, and Alaina. In 2001, they welcomed their daughter, Montana.

He dedicated his entire life to working on the farm milking cows, raising crops, and running beef cattle. Above all, he loved and valued his family and took great pride in caring and providing for those he loved. You would always find him staying busy whether that be farming, mowing the grass, checking fences, driving to town for a POP, or out talking to his lifelong friends, Bob and Johnny.

He is survived by his soulmate and wife Angela of the home; his children, Mendy (Carl) of Rich Hill, MO, Michelle (Matthew) of Sedalia, MO, Roy (Ashley) of Prairie City, MO, Montana (Johnathan) of Chadds Ford, PA, Matthew (Jeanna) of Butler, MO, Daniel of Archie, MO, and Alaina (Derek) of Adrian, MO; his sister, Paula of Woodland Park, CO; his brother-in-law, Leon of Fort Worth, TX; his special brother, Lloyd of Kansas City, MO; his many grand children, great grand children, and nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Arleta; and brother-in-law, Cliff.

His family and friends were the center of his world, and he cherished the time he spent with each and every one of them. Those who knew Jerry will remember him for his hardworking nature and talkative personality.

A celebration of life will be held June 19, 2026 from 5-9pm at Trent’s building in Rich Hill, MO. Address: 720 E Walnut St, Rich Hill, MO 64779

Jerry will be deeply loved and missed and forever remembered.

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Missouri State Fair Hiring

 

Employment applications accepted starting today!

The Missouri State Fair is now accepting applications for employment during the Fair in August. Starting pay is $15 per hour and benefits include valuable work experience, making new friends and free Fair admission.

Positions are available in:

• Admissions
• Backstage
• Campgrounds
• Carnival
• Grandstand
• Hospitality
• Janitorial
• Parking
• Maintenance
• Revenue
• Trams
• Youth Crew

The Fair's personnel office opens today, June 17, at noon in the Historic Administration Building, located across from the State Fair Grandstand. Office hours are Wednesday-Friday, noon to 6 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Starting Aug 1, office hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

State offices (including the personnel office) are closed for the following state holdiays:

• June 19 in observation of Juneteenth
• July 3 & 4 in observation of Independence Day

Those interested in applying should visit the Fair’s website for more information.

The Missouri State Fair is Aug. 13-23, in Sedalia.

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City of Archie Hiring

 The City of Archie is seeking a Temporary, Part-Time, Seasonal Maintenance Employee to do the mowing, weed eating, and additional park maintenance at the City parks for the season.  Beginning immediately and going through October, if necessary, the hours would be around 30-40 hours per week.  An applicant wiht a driver's license is required.  An applicant 18 years of age is preferred, though not necessary.  The rate of pay will be $17.00 per hour.  We will take applications until the position is filled. Send Resume or apply at City Clerk, 204 S. Main St., P.O. Box 346, Archie, MO 64725, or email to [email protected]. EOE

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Tannor Thomas, age 28 of Butler

 From the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory . . . Tannor Thomas, age 28 of Butler died Friday, June 12 in Butler as a result of a motorcycle accident. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Thursday, June 18 at the Adrian Optimist Building with cremation to follow. Visitation prior to services from 1 - 2 p.m. Thursday at the Optimist Building. Arrangements under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory. Contributions to the Thomas Love Fund at Community First Bank. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com Tannor is survived by his wife, Brooklyn Thomas and two young children, Walker and Rosalie all of the home; mother, Deborah Shaner and husband Brandon of Butler; one brother, Zachary Thomas of Butler; parentsin-law, Patrick and Michelle Popplewell of Butler; sister-in-law, Brianne Phillips (Dalton) and their children, Braxton and Riley; brother-in-law, Peyton Popplewell (Macey Kelso); one sister, Alexandria Thomas; and father, James Thomas. That’s Tannor Thomas with funeral services 2 p.m. Thursday, June 18 at the Adrian Optimist building. Arrangements under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory in Butler.

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Harrisonville 2 day concert

 The Ag City Music Festival will be held at the Little Dixie Family Mud Run in Harrisonville. Celebrating agriculture, live music, and America’s 250^th birthday, Friday & Saturday, June 19 & 20^th. Friday night will kick off with rock bands, while Saturday highlights local country talent, featuring Headliner, Tate Stevens. Food trucks, vendors, beer garden, tractor pull, sky diving show, kid zone, and more. See the Harrisonville Chamber of Commerce for more information on their Facebook Page Tickets will be 30 dollars for a one day admission and 50 dollars for the two day admission passes.

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Former Employee of Bates County Accused of Stealing

 A former employee of Bates County Industries located in Butler, MO has been accused of stealing $200,972.42 during her time serving as director beginning in 2021.

 

Documents indicate that Donna Maciel, 57, sold back vacation and sick time which was prohibited, as well as giving herself cash advances without paying it back, charging for mileage while driving a company vehicle, as well as abuse of company credit cards among other allegations all totaling over $200,000.00 during approximately a three year period.

 

Charges filed in the Bates County Circuit Court as as follows:

 

Count 1 - Stealing - $25,000 Or More { Felony C RSMo: 570.030 }

Count 2 - Stealing - $25,000 Or More/Teller Machine Or Contents { Felony C RSMo: 570.030 }

Count 3 - Stealing - $750 Or More { Felony D RSMo: 570.030 }

 

A warrant for Maciel's arrest was issued on June 12, 2026 indicating a $100,000 cash only bond.

 

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15 year old Cowboy needs our Help

 Bates County has something to be proud of….. 15 year old Bentley Gilkey of Rich Hill will be advancing to the 2026 National High School Rodeo finals in Lincoln Nebraska. Bentley is competing in the Bull Riding event.

This 7 day rodeo competition will be held July 19^th through the 25^th. Bentley is a small town kid chasing his dream. Bentley is the son of Rashanda Gilkey and Brent Morrison of Rich Hill. His motto is to work hard, stay humble, chase your dreams and make your hometown proud. He needs our help to reach his dream.

If you would like to be one of many sponsors needed to help Bentley Gilkey reach his dream , we are asking for donations. There are 4 different sponsor levels from $500 gold level to $99 dollars, or any cash amount that you feel led to donate.  

The donation dollars will assist this Cowboy pay for travel and lodging expenses, entry fees and equipment. We are Calling on Rodeo Fans and retired Cowboys to help us, help Bentley.

There are several ways to send your donation dollars.

Venmo, Cash App, Phone or Email , or donations/ checks mailed in any amount will be appreciated. Donations may be mailed  to Rashanda Gilkey 201 East Oak Street in Rich Hill 64779. The deadline will be July 10^th, as Bentley will hit the road on July 17^th for Nebraska.

Bentley will be representing the Rich Hill Community on the national stage and our hope is for Bentley to bring this title back home to Bates County. .

This is more than a rodeo for Bentley Gilkey of Rich Hill, it’s a dream, a journey and the opportunity of a lifetime. Every dollar you spend will help this dream become a reality.

Phone number 660-227-3368  that number again 660-227-3368

Good Luck, Cowboy ! 

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Rich Hill Fire Department Responds To An Accident And Second Accident Occurs On Scene

Shortly after 11:00 a.m., Monday, June 15^th, the Rich Hill Fire Department (RHFD) was dispatched to a single-vehicle accident at mile marker 123 on I-49. While on the scene, a second accident involving two vehicles occurred, narrowly missing Rich Hill Fire Engine 2. Emergency personnel immediately notified Bates County Dispatch and requested additional resources. Fortunately, only minor injuries were reported from both incidents.

While on the scene of the highway accidents, Bates County EMS and RHFD also responded to a separate medical call within Rich Hill.

The following departments assisted at the highway scene: Rich Hill Fire, Vernon County EMS, Bates County EMS, Rich Hill Police, Bates County Sheriff's Office, and the Missouri Highway Patrol.

These incidents highlight the significant dangers emergency responders face when working on highways and interstates. They ask the public to use this as a reminder to remain vigilant and avoid distracted driving.

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Michael “Mike” Lee Crow, age 57 of Harrisonville

 From the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory . . . Michael “Mike” Lee Crow, age 57 of Harrisonville, Missouri died Friday, June 12, 2026 at Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. Celebration of life begins at 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at Steffan’s Auto Works in Harrisonville, Missouri (1406 S. Commercial Street, Harrisonville, Missouri, 64701). Arrangements are under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel and Crematory (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Contributions to Cullen Lee Crow for a college fund. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com. Mike is survived by one son, Keifer Lee Crow and wife Carmen of Louisiana; one daughter, Amanda “Amie” Breckenridge and husband Justin of Rich Hill; three stepchildren, Cassandra, Diana and Jacob; four grandchildren; mother, Shirley Louise Bearce and husband Elvin of Butler; stepmother, Rene Crow of Butler; significant other, Linda Diane Hodges of Harrisonville; sister, Christy Lockard and husband Alan of Butler; two stepsisters, Marci Anzalone and husband Tim and Michelle Christensen and husband Claus; and numerous nieces and nephews. That’s Mike Lee Crow with a celebration of life beginning at 5 p.m. Wednesday, June 17 at Steffans’s Auto Works in Harrisonville. Arrangements under the direction of the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler.

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Missouri State Highway Patrol Investigating Fatal Crash On MO-52 Overpass In Bates County

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal crash on the MO-52 highway overpass at I-49 in Butler on Friday, June 12^th. Authorities say the crash involved a motorcycle and a van pulling a trailer.

The motorcycle was traveling westbound on MO-52 when the van exited from I-49 onto MO-52 and traveled into the motorcycle’s path.

The motorcycle struck the trailer and the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene.

This story is ongoing and will be updated as more information becomes available.

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11 Skydivers, One Pilot Killed After Plane Crashes In Butler

Eleven skydivers and a pilot are dead after a plane crashed in Butler, Missouri, Sunday morning, in an incident local authorities call a “mass casualty event.”

According to a spokesperson with Bates County Emergency Management, just before 11:30 a.m., Sunday, a private plane carrying skydivers left the Butler Memorial Airport but turned around for an unknown reason before crashing near Business 49 Highway.

Eleven of the 12 victims were skydivers. The other victim was the pilot of the plane. All the people on the plane died. The victims’ names have not been released as of Monday morning.

Bates County Sheriff Chad Anderson confirmed multiple people witnessed the crash, including family members of the victims.

The FAA issued the following statement after the crash:

“This information is preliminary and subject to change. A Pacific Aerospace P750 crashed while departing from Butler Memorial Airport in Missouri around 11:35 a.m. local time on Sunday, June 14. Air traffic services were not being provided at the time. Twelve people were on board. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation.“

According to flight radar, a Pacific Aerospace 750XL took off from the airport Sunday morning, and reached an altitude of about 13,400 feet before descending for about two minutes at a rapid speed of 227 mph.

The aircraft is capable of holding up to 17 passengers and serves as a common plane for large skydiving parties.

 

The same type of plane took off earlier Sunday morning for a separate flight. Flight Aware shows the aircraft leaving the airport at 9:20 a.m. and returning about 22 minutes later. It then went back up in the air about an hour later.

At this time, emergency crews and law enforcement with the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating.

Anderson added that the investigation will take at least two days as crews work to determine what led up to the crash and clear the wreckage. Those agencies are also working to identify the 12 victims in the crash.

NTSB says that their investigators will be at the scene on Monday to document the area, examine the aircraft, and “look at the human, machine and environment as the outline of the investigation.”

NTSB says that a preliminary report will be available within 30 days. A final report with a probable cause of the crash and contributing factors will be released in 12-24 months.

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