Jason Sears
Jason Sears is the founder, editor and lead reporter of The Chariton Beacon, a news site created to provide much-needed local coverage for Chariton County, Missouri. Recognizing the lack of accessible, reliable news in the area, Jason launched the site with the goal of keeping his community informed about the events and issues that matter most. With a deep understanding of small-town life, he is dedicated to ensuring that Chariton County has a trustworthy and comprehensive source for local news, strengthening connections within the community.
Mid-Missouri Arrests: High-Speed Chases, Felony Warrants, and DWIs Mark a Busy Week
Over the past several days, Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers and county deputies across mid-Missouri reported a busy stretch of arrests, ranging from high-speed pursuits and felony warrants to numerous cases of impaired driving. The following is a roundup of arrests from area counties, with…
When Most Churches Fear Man More Than God
Across America today, something tragic has happened: the Gospel has been reduced to a message of self-fulfillment rather than self-denial. In countless pulpits, what is preached is not the Word of God in its fullness, but a false gospel. It is a gospel of “God’s love without justice”,…
Chariton County Schools Kick Off 2025-26 Year with Sports, Academics, and Community Events
The 2025-26 school year is underway across Chariton County, and students, staff, and families have enjoyed a vibrant start. Brunswick, Keytesville, Northwestern, and Salisbury schools hosted a variety of back-to-school events, athletic team introductions, and academic celebrations, while emphasizing safety, leadership, and community engagement. Thunder…
Central Missouri Law Enforcement: Weekly Arrest and Booking Report
Central Missouri law enforcement agencies were active throughout the past week, responding to a wide range of incidents spanning routine traffic violations, driving under the influence, drug offenses, and serious felony charges. Across the region, officers conducted traffic stops, served warrants, and executed arrests, reflecting…
Exposed: Catherine Hanaway’s Corporate Ties and Liberal Leanings Fuel Grassroots Distrust in Missouri’s New Attorney General
Jefferson City, MO – On August 19, 2025, Governor Mike Kehoe appointed Catherine Hanaway as Missouri’s Attorney General, replacing Andrew Bailey, who resigned to join the FBI as co-deputy director. Hanaway, a seasoned attorney and former Missouri House Speaker, brings a robust resume, but her…
Local Schools Share Updates as Fall Semester Approaches
Districts across Chariton County have been sharing news with families as students prepare to return to the classroom. Northwestern R-I At Northwestern R-I, the district celebrated graduate Taylor Fry, a member of the Class of 2024, who completed basic training in San Antonio, Texas. Fry…
Missouri Lawmakers Are Choosing Politics Over Protecting the Unborn
Missouri’s abortion debate has entered a dangerous new chapter. With Amendment 3 looming on the November ballot, the legislature had an opportunity this year to secure equal protection for unborn children once and for all. Instead, they chose political compromise — and in doing so,…
Hometown Business Spotlight: Grand River Marketplace
Welcome to the very first edition of our new Hometown Business Spotlight series — where each month we’ll introduce you to a different small business that makes our communities unique. From family-run shops to local service providers, we’ll share the stories, the people, and the…
Opinion: It’s Time for Missouri to End Corporate Tax Breaks — And Let Small Businesses Thrive in Chariton County
Small businesses are the heart of Chariton County’s economy and community life. From R&R Apple Market in Salisbury to Sam Johnson’s Appliances & Furniture in Brunswick, these local entrepreneurs create jobs, provide essential services, and keep our economy vibrant. Yet despite their vital role, Missouri’s…
Missouri State Highway Patrol Arrests: August 2 through August 8
From high-speed chases to sobering drug busts, the Missouri State Highway Patrol has been hard at work keeping our roads and communities safe. This report, covering August 2 to August 8, 2025, shines a spotlight on arrests across area counties near Chariton County. From driving…
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Upcoming Activities
- Feb 14Feb 14 @ 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
CCMH Foundation Chocolate Brunch Fundraiser
- Feb 14Feb 14 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
2026 Linn County Cattlemen’s Annual Banquet
- Feb 14Feb 14 @ 8:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Karaoke at Beckett’s Winery
- Feb 20Feb 20 @ 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Carroll County Fair Board’s Trivia Night
- Feb 21Feb 21 @ 4:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Chili & Soup Dinner, and Raffle