Bootheel Beacon
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Where local news shines brightest!
The original beacon in the Bootheel played a crucial role during World War II, assisting pilots in locating Malden Army Airfield.
Positioned alongside State Highway 25, this landmark guided countless flights. Today, the frame of the light still stands in its original location, a testament to its historical significance.
Welcome
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the Bootheel Beacon - your new online source for news, culture, events, and everything that shapes the heart and soul of Missouri's Southeastern region.
Rooted in the values of fairness, accuracy, and community service, The Bootheel Beacon is proud to shine a light on the stories that matter most to our readers. As a digital publication led by seasoned professionals with deep ties to the region, we are committed to keeping you informed, inspired, and connected.
Our mission is simple: to serve. From timely news updates to local arts and culture, civic events to hometown highlights, we aim to reflect the vibrant spirit of the Bootheel. The Bootheel Beacon is proud to serve the Malden Historical Museum as its fundraising arm - helping preserve and promote the history that shapes our future.
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Warm regards,
The Editorial Team
The Bootheel Beacon
"Where local news shines brightest!"
Thomas Surbaugh LOCATED
Missing U.S. Marine veteran found in Arkansas
Stephen Hankins - Staff Writer
PARAGOULD, Ark. — Missing U.S. Marine Corps veteran Thomas Surbaugh has been located in Paragould, and his family is now with him. Surbaugh, of Memphis, Tennessee, had been the focus of an intensive search after disappearing Monday and was later traced to the Kennett, Missouri, area, where relatives and volunteers searched for him for several days. His family has confirmed he has been found, and they are asking for privacy as they focus on his well-being. We will continue to follow this story and provide additional information as it becomes available. Thank you to everyone who shared information, kept watch, and offered prayers during the search. Your interest and attention are a testament to the helpful nature of our readers.
Community Effort Pays Off as Malden Opens New Splash Pad
Mayor Kooyman: New Splash Pad Built ‘For All of Us’
by David Black - Staff Writer
MALDEN, Mo. — After years sof planning and anticipation, Malden's splash pad at Frisco Park opened at 10 today. Mayor Denton Kooyman credited the playground’s completion to the efforts of numerous individuals, city departments and community partners. “This project has involved many people and organizations, including the Missouri Department of Parks, the National Resources program, the Park Board, the Board of Public Works, the city’s electric and water departments, Public Works, Yvonne Smith, Harold Jones, David Blalock, Robin, Chris Owens, Street Mike Construction, Lopez Construction, Lanco Building, and many others,” Kooyman said. “It’s truly been a community effort.” Kooyman acknowledged that the project generated differing opinions within the community but said he hopes the finished playground will bring residents together. “I know there have been some who didn’t want this project and some who did,” he said. “My hope is that everyone will come out and enjoy the park. I’d especially like to see those who had doubts about the splash pad come out and use it, too, because this is for all of us.” The mayor compared the reaction to the new playground to that of the city’s walking trail, another project that initially faced skepticism. “When we first started talking about the walking trail, there were doubters,” Kooyman said. “Now I’ve seen many of those doubters out there walking on it. I hope the same thing happens with this playground.”
Malden Council Rejects Bid to Sell Cotton Belt Park and Hears Proposal for Malden Scout Hut Renovations
by David Black - Staff Writer
MALDEN, Mo. — The Malden City Council unanimously rejected a $100 offer Monday to purchase Cotton Belt Park, choosing instead to preserve one of downtown's remaining public spaces while continuing broader discussions about future redevelopment. Municipal Judge, attorney, businessman, and developer John Welch offered to purchase the property, excluding the nearby Narvel Felts Bandstand and access, with plans to build two or more duplexes similar to other developments he has completed in Malden. The proposal prompted one of the meeting's lengthiest discussions as council members weighed economic development against preserving a longtime community landmark. "I don't really think that, honestly, buildings like what he's talking about putting there belong in that area," one council member said, describing the location as better suited for commercial uses. Another added, "For $100, that's some nice property there." Councilman Phil Santie urged caution, saying the park remains an important part of the city's identity. "I agree 100% that you would keep that ground," Santie said. "It's part of old Malden. It's always been there." Mayor Denton Kooyman disagreed. “I hate downtown,” Kooyman said. “Downtown is dead. “ I hear all the time about fixing up downtown,” he continued. “But downtown is up there …” he concluded, referring to businesses located on Business Highway 25 north of Malden downtown. "My argument is the people who constantly complain to us that we're not doing anything downtown," Kooyman continued. “The first time I've ever seen anybody want to do something downtown, we're saying no." Councilman Charles Dierks questioned the Mayor’s enthusiasm. “If you don’t have a dog in this fight, why are you enthusiastic about selling the property?” he asked. Santie said the discussion highlighted the challenge of balancing redevelopment with the preservation of community assets. Council members agreed that the proposal lacked sufficient detail and that the property's value far exceeded the $100 offer, and unanimously voted to reject the request. Earlier in the meeting, Malden Park Board president Anita Mathies asked the council to help preserve the aging Scout Hut in Frisco Park rather than demolish it. "We want to fix it up, not tear it down," Park Board Chair Anita Mathies said. "We still want to use it." Mathies said the board plans to identify priority repairs and develop cost estimates before seeking financial assistance. She also said the board hopes the city can help pursue grant opportunities to restore the building, which council members described as having historical and community value, particularly with the new splash pad expected to attract more families to the park. Malden Scout Hut’s history dates back to 1954, and another Scout Hut was built in 1933 on the lot of Malden’s Catholic Church on Douglass Street. The present Scout Hut building was originally located at Malden Army Airfield and is believed to have been a barracks used by cadets training there, and was moved to Malden after the airfield closed. The council approved Ordinance No. 3312, removing attendance requirements tied to council compensation after the city resumed holding two regular meetings each month. Officials said the change does not increase council salaries but eliminates the requirement that members attend every meeting to receive monthly compensation. Council members also approved donating an animal control van to Headed Home to the Heartland after verifying the organization's nonprofit status, appointed Fire Chief John Johnson to the Housing Authority Board, appointed Randy Sims to the Park Board, and approved changing a city office job title of “City & BPW Accounts Receivable/Deputy City Collector/Human Resources “ to “Bookkeeper" to better reflect the position's duties. The council also authorized the Board of Public Works to replace its aging electrical SCADA monitoring system. The integration of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) with fiber optic communication networks creates an extremely reliable electrical grid by ensuring near-instantaneous, interference-free data transmission and advanced grid automation. During reports, City Administrator Jeff Mitchell thanked employees, volunteers and first responders for helping make the city's Independence Day fireworks celebration a success and said the Frisco Park splash pad could open within days if final work is completed as scheduled. A grand opening celebration is scheduled for 10 AM Friday July 10. City Councilman Phil Santie voiced his appreciation for the fireworks celebration. Mitchell also told the council he is reviewing whether the city can afford to add two full-time Street Department employees, saying the current staff of two employees is responsible for maintaining streets, parks and other city-owned properties and is stretched thin. The Malden City Council meets at 6 p.m. on the first and third Mondays of each month at Malden City Hall inside the Malden Community Center, 607 Douglas St. The public is encouraged to attend.
Green Wave Tradition Lives On Through Scholarships, Service and Homecoming Spirit
by David Black - Staff Writer
MALDEN, Mo. — For nearly three decades, the Malden High School Alumni Association has worked to preserve memories, strengthen friendships and invest in the future of Green Wave graduates through scholarships, volunteerism and its annual Homecoming celebration. Since its founding in 1997, the organization has become a cornerstone of community pride, connecting alumni from across the country while raising funds to support graduating seniors as they pursue higher education and career opportunities. Each year, the association recognizes outstanding students through its scholarship program, helping open doors to a brighter future for the next generation of Green Wave graduates. “Since 1997, the MHSAA has empowered MHS graduates to ride the wave of success, opening doors to a brighter future,” association leaders said. Homecoming Weekend, traditionally held over Labor Day weekend, remains one of the association’s signature events. More graduating classes continue to choose the celebration as an opportunity to hold reunions, participate in the annual Homecoming Parade and reconnect with classmates and lifelong friends. Association members meet monthly throughout the year to plan activities, coordinate reunions, support scholarship fundraising efforts and improve the annual celebration. Organizers say Homecoming requires weeks of preparation and countless volunteer hours, but the rewards are immeasurable. “It is a time to reunite with old friends, celebrate our shared past and invest in the future of our community,” members said. The association encourages residents of Malden and the surrounding area to become involved by attending meetings and volunteering their time and talents. Leaders note that every contribution helps strengthen the organization and creates lasting opportunities for Malden students. The Malden High School Alumni Association’s annual banquet has also become an important tradition, bringing together alumni of all ages to celebrate shared experiences and honor those who have helped sustain the organization through the years. During the 29th Annual Alumni Banquet, special recognition was given to the volunteers who dedicate countless hours to preserving the Green Wave legacy. Chairperson Barbara Grubbs was commended for her leadership and faithful attendance at monthly planning meetings. Other committee members recognized for their service included Connie Coleman, secretary; Jackie Bennett, treasurer; Gail Demaree, alumni contact and mailing coordinator; Dennis Demaree; Jeannie and Gary Selby, who provide decorative touches for the banquet; Lynnette Jenkins; Patty Moore; and David Black, webmaster and newsletter editor. Black, creator and longtime webmaster of MaldenAlumni.com, continues to preserve the history of the association through photography, website development and archival projects that allow alumni to revisit cherished memories and maintain connections with classmates throughout the nation. The association also expressed appreciation to Tasteful Creations for once again preparing the annual banquet meal, noting that a portion of the proceeds helps sustain alumni programs and scholarships. Organizers say the continued success of the Malden High School Alumni Association is rooted in a simple idea: preserving the bonds created during school years while ensuring future generations have opportunities to succeed. “No matter where life takes us,” members said, “we will always share the memories, traditions, friendships and Green Wave spirit that began in the halls of Malden High School.” As preparations continue for Homecoming 2026, alumni leaders hope graduates from every era will return home to celebrate the traditions that continue to unite the Green Wave family.
