The Leader • 10-3-24

CLINTON COUNTY

Fall Festival ready to hit Main Street

Residents in Plattsburg will soon be “Harvest-

ing the Good Times” with the 2024 Plattsburg Fall Festival, which takes over the town starting Wednesday, October 9.

That evening at 7 p.m. will be the Plattsburg Queen and Junior Miss Pageant at the Plattsburg High School Performing Arts Center. Also that night, the winners of the Senior Gray Tiger Contest. There’s still time to vote using your pennies by visiting participating businesses, which have donation canisters for each candidate. Proceeds will benefit the Plattsburg Senior Center.

The pageant winners will be announced Thursday during the Fall Festival Opening Ceremonies at 7 p.m. at the Community Courtyard. Also during the opening ceremonies, the DAR will lead the Pledge of Allegiance and the national anthem will be performed by the Plattsburg High School Choir. Mayor David Jett will give opening remarks and the Fall Festival Committee will announce this year’s Grand Marshal.

The PHS Film Club—which recently qualified for a prestigious national film festival coming up in New York City—will have a fiesta fries fundraiser for dinner Thursday night at the courtyard (free will donation).

The Jones Carnival will start thrilling crowds on Thursday, October 10, running from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. They’ll run from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, October 11, and from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday.

The Cameron Historic Preservation Society announced this week that it intends to sell all interest in the condemned buildings along the 200 block of Third Street in Cameron.

SCHOOL THREATS

Hoax call aimed at CCR-III

by brett adkison leader editor

Authorities were able to clear the Clinton County R-III School District campus in Plattsburg on Thursday, September 26, after a report of an active shooter situation spurred a quick response from law enforcement and district leaders.

Sgt. Ryan Jensen with the

Plattsburg Police Department said that the initial report came in at 11:02 a.m. on Thursday through the National Suicide Hotline. Five other schools in the U.S. (no others in the immediate region) received the same threat.

Because the report came through reliable channels, authorities responded to the call as an ac-

tive shooter situation. Agencies on the scene Thursday included the Plattsburg Police Department, Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, Lathrop Police Department, Buchanan County Sheriff’s Department, DeKalb County Sheriff’s Department, the Kearney Police Department, Missouri State High-

It was a festive Friday in Plattsburg last week, as Tigers young and old celebrated Homecoming. That included the Tigers football team’s 7428 victory over KC East Christian. At halftime, the district crowned seniors Rylan Langton and Brayden LaramoreYanez as the 2024 Homecoming King and Queen (left). This year’s king candidates were Langton, Gavin Boyle, Michael Hull and Caden McLallen, while the queen candidates were Laramore-Yanez, Ada Gollnick, Alexis Grayson and Jacey Coldren. The annual Homecoming parade through downtown was earlier that day. For photo coverage from the parade, the game and the coronation, turn to page A6 of this edition. brett adkison | the leader

Gina Reed Hibler to buy 3rd St. buildings

The Cameron Historical Preservation Society announced Tuesday night its intent to sell all interests in the condemned buildings along the 200 block of Third Street.

The new owner was identified as Cameron City Council member Gina Reed Hibler. Hibler has been very involved in downtown Cameron, with the Main Street Organization and various civic groups, including the municipal band.

Hibler plans to stabilize and restore the buildings with loft apartments over retail space below. “I had been keeping mental tabs on these locations for years, wondering when someone was going

PLATTSBURG

y jamey honeycutt leader publisher

New Plattsburg Mural Dedicated

way Patrol and more.

“There were primary and secondary searches done inside both the high school and middle school,” Sgt. Jensen said. “The report was that a person was locked inside of a bathroom with an AR-15. With the coordination of the principal at the high school and the superintendent, we conducted searches. We didn’t find anyone in those areas.”

The district was placed into lockdown and all of the students were accounted for and marked safe. Shortly after noon, authorities were released from the scene and students were allowed back to class or checked out with parents who had gathered at the district. Officers remained at each of the three buildings after the incident in case of additional calls.

Active-shooter train-

ing was being conducted in Lathrop on Thursday, which put some additional resources just a short distance from Plattsburg when the call came in.

Sgt. Jensen said that an investigation will be conducted into who placed the call through the National Suicide Hotline, but added that information from the hotline could be limited given the nature of its purpose.

In a later press release, Clinton County Sheriff Larry Fish said that initial investigations suggested that the call was a swatting hoax—a false report made to authorities in order to elicit a large response to a particular position. All relevant information was sent to the FBI and local charges will be explored, the release read.

the Clinton County Historical Society, the Tinnen Family and many more throughout the community.

Friday will feature the Clinton County 4-H Scholarship Dinner at the courtyard starting at 4:30 p.m. The snack walk is at 6 p.m. and the American Legion presents a Family Comedy Night at 8 p.m.

The Plattsburg Masonic Lodge will start off Saturday morning with a free appreci-

ation pancake breakfast beginning at 6 a.m. They will accept free will donations, but the breakfast is free in appreciation for the community’s previous donations to support Plattsburg students.

Lakeside Inflatables will be running from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Second and Maple (free will donation).

will be leaving from Perkins Park at 11 a.m. (line-up starts at 10:15 a.m.). After the parade, Artistry in Motion dancers will perform on Broadway.

Ax throwing and laser tag (both free) will start at noon. Creatures by Teresa will be featured in the Community Courtyard parking lot at 2:30 p.m.

American Legion Post 97 will be serving hot dogs, chips and drinks starting at 10 a.m.

The marquee parade

Community Church Service starts at 11 a.m. on Sunday at the Community Courtyard.

For more information, be sure to visit the festival on Facebook.

There will be a beer garden in the Community Courtyard parking lot from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. (ID required) along with live music. The Fall Festival BBQ Dinner will start at 5 p.m. inside the courtyard and run until the food is gone (free will donation).

Blades Earns Designation

Congratulations to Cameron City Clerk Shellie Blades, who recently earned the prestigious designation of Advanced Certified Municipal Official from the Missouri Municipal League’s Municipal Governance Institute (MGI). The Municipal Governance Institute was created under the direction of the Missouri Municipal League’s board of directors, to provide a training program focused on the important areas municipal officials and professional staff need for success. The Advanced Municipal Governance Institute (AMGI) program builds on the foundation laid out in the primary MGI program. In addition to the 16 credit hours needed for certifications in the MGI program, AMGI participants complete an additional set of 14 core hours, as well as three capstone components. The capstone components focus on Community Service, Advocacy and Leadership. submitted

The community of Plattsburg was out in full force on Saturday, September 28, for the dedication of its newest mural on the west side of Tinnen Town Hall on the corner of Main Street and Maple. The scene--painted by Daniel Bartle-

the former Jefferson Highway that spanned the country north to south and ran through Plattsburg, with the former Tinnen Motor Company in the background. The mural was made possible by the Plattsburg Community Betterment and Arts Council,

Plattsburg Police Sgt. Ryan Jensen relays information to worried parents Thursday outside of the Clinton County R-III district. brett adkison | the leader

OPINIONS

A Mural-Perfect Day

by steve tinnen leader publisher

You know you’re growin’ older when... Having plans sounds like a good idea until you must put on clothes and leave the house.

* * * * *

There is a multitude of bricks that make up the west wall of Tinnen Town Hall (formerly Tinnen Motor Company). The expanse was huge, and each one needed to be accounted for when artist Daniel Bartle began the process of painting his idea of what a Jefferson Highway mural should look like.

Vincent Van Gogh said, “I dream my painting, and then I paint my dream.”

If Daniel used the dream method professed by Van Gogh, he did it to perfection on each of the bricks. As a result, the dedication ceremony was conducted on Saturday, September 28, with a large crowd joining in the celebration.

The KC Chuggers Model T Club brought eight Model T’s thanks to club member Bob Pressly. Northwest Missouri Model A Ford Club from Smithville brought 11 of their restored Fords. They provided the backdrop for the real star, the Jefferson Highway Mural.

The story about Plattsburg’s Jefferson Highway Mural is one with more than

ample supply of twists and turns (old timers would say more than a Texaco Road Map).

The map used for this mural was more localized; it was a community road map that paved the way for success.

It started with the Plattsburg Community Betterment and Arts Council’s desire to paint murals on the walls of local businesses. The idea of the Jefferson Highway grew from the urging of local Jefferson Highway aficionado Terry Wood, a member of the Clinton County Historical Society. His enthusiasm, combined with his wife, Lynn, convinced both groups to use that theme. It made perfect sense when they chose Tinnen Town Hall as the location, because the Jefferson Highway, established in 1915, traveled past the west wall.

The arts council’s chair, Charnette Norton, was especially pleased with the support of the community.

“This was truly a community project”, said Norton. “There were pennies dropped in jars, people handing out money when our paths crossed, plus the checks and some larger donations that made this mural a reality. In the purist sense, it was a community project.”

She also said that the artist, Daniel, had to battle

all kinds of weather (along with wasps) as he completed the lengthy process. In addition, the CCR-III School District’s CAPS program, Jadon Mitchell and Chevy Bramble used their computer skills to create a QR Code and Jefferson Highway website.

“These young men, as a result of their involvement, will feel like part of our program and the community at large,” she said.

Lesli Shaver, president of the historical society, was pleased they could play a role in the success.

“Terry convinced our group that we should get involved with the Jefferson Highway Association and he worked to get signs purchased and get Plattsburg honored by the Association,” Shaver said. “We enjoyed a great weekend, with great weather, cars, food and great music provided by John Enderle. I know we had several people come back home to Plattsburg to enjoy it. Everyone had a great time.”

The program that afternoon included the Pledge of Allegiance by the Daughters of American Revolution, which was followed by Carmen Bennett singing the national anthem. Larry Graham, deacon of Second Baptist Church, offered a prayer before the speakers began. Plattsburg Mayor

||Continued on A10

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Unintended Consequences of School Book Banning

While it’s understandable to want to protect children, labeling certain books as “pornographic” and banning them from school libraries can lead to unintended consequences. Here’s why:

• School libraries serve an important role in fostering intellectual freedom, which includes exposing students to diverse perspectives. What one parent or group finds objectionable may be seen by others as essential for a child’s understanding of complex social issues. Banning books can limit students’ ability to think critically and engage with challenging material in a guided, educational setting.

• Books that include mature themes aren’t necessarily pornographic. Many works of literature that deal with difficult topics (such as sexuality, abuse, or violence) are meant to provide valuable insight into human experience. For example, classics like To Kill a Mockingbird or The Diary of Anne Frank contain heavy

themes, but they are important for fostering empathy and understanding history. Removing books due to specific passages can rob students of broader lessons.

• Instead of banning books outright, schools and parents can work together to ensure ageappropriate materials are accessible. Schools can provide guidance on which books are suitable for which age groups and include content warnings or offer parental consent forms if necessary. The key is to manage content responsibly, not ban it outright.

• Parents have every right to monitor what their own children read, but that responsibility shouldn’t extend to controlling what’s available to others. Families have different values, and the role of a public-school library is to serve the whole student body. If a parent is uncomfortable with certain books, they can have conversations with their children about those specific titles rather than advocating for a one-size-fits-

all ban.

• Shielding children from all challenging or uncomfortable material can prevent them from developing critical thinking skills. Rather than hiding difficult topics, schools should teach students how to navigate and understand them in context. Exposure to a variety of ideas, including those some may find uncomfortable, is essential for preparing young people for the complexities of the world.

In conclusion, while concerns about protecting children from harmful content are valid, banning books based on subjective definitions of “pornography” can lead to overreach. Instead, schools should aim to balance providing diverse literature with clear communication between parents, educators, and students. This approach protects children while still encouraging intellectual growth and personal responsibility.

Mike Shryock Trimble, Mo.

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

A Needed Restoration

by jamey honeycutt leader publisher

Whether it is reality or wishful thinking, I think I see a speck on the horizon that resembles hope. And the hope is that there is a restoration coming.

If you want to make this about our country or our state, feel free, but I am more focused on the county level and where we go from here.

I saw two different things this week that gave me great hope. First was the celebration of the unveiling of the Jefferson Highway mural on Tinnen Town Hall in historic Plattsburg. I am repeatedly amazed at the civic pride in our county seat.

The second happening was Cameron City Council member Gina Reed Hibler stepping up and striking a deal to purchase the crumbling buildings on Third Street. When talking about the buildings and her plans, Hibler beamed at the prospect of not just rebuilding the structures, but of restoring them to their original purpose, and I hope she succeeds.

That’s when I realized, maybe Cameron needs restoration in more ways than one. Or maybe it’s even bigger, as in Clinton County. Things seem to be a bit unsteady right now but we just need good steady hands to step up and take the lead. To join those already in the

fight and help back a revival of better times. Insert whichever “good ol’ days” version you recall and lets go for that.

I want to be optimistic about the future and those who are leading. We need to support them rather than complain. Anonymous experts on social media have the complaining market cornered. They don’t need our help. As General George Patton famously said, “Lead me, follow me or get the hell out of my way!”

For the moment, Gina gets the first Clinton County Leader ‘Patton’ Award. Congratulations, Mrs. Hibler, your subscription to The Clinton County Leader is in your Friday mail. But seriously, thank you for taking action to better Cameron and Clinton/DeKalb Counties.

Now, I am not saying Mrs. Hibler has it all figured out by any means, but at least she is putting her money where her mouth is

and getting her hands dirty. When we spoke about her plans, she said she would probably spend the night after closing the deal starting her renovations on the property.

If that kind of excitement doesn’t at least get your blood pumping a bit, you need to check your pulse.

We all need a restoration every now and again; sometimes getting rebuilt just doesn’t cut it. Rebuilt is the physical act, but restoring involves the soul. It appears to me that Cameron (Clinton County) has been adrift for a while, and it is high time we begin a much needed restoration project. I can relate. I even let myself go a bit there but now I an ready to get back in the fight. Are you?

There are many challenges in the way of infrastructure, education and economics, but if good people step up with a focus on restoration rather than rebuilding or sustaining, we will have a fighting chance. As General Patton would say, lead, follow or get the hell out of our way!

Publisher’s Note: Thank you for the voicemail and emails I have received in the past few weeks encouraging me and supporting our coverage. Thank you for those words, they mean a lot.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

A Message of Fear

Americans are tired of hearing nonsense about Haitians with an unhealthy appetite for their neighbors’ pets. The Republican mayor of Springfield, Ohio, has said the story is totally bogus. So has Ohio’s Republican governor. Yet Donald Trump and JD Vance continue to spread the lie. Why? The answer is apparent when you look at Trump’s political record. He wants you to be afraid. Ever since his 2015 trip down the escalator, Trump has consistently slandered immigrants, calling them vermin, a poison to our nation’s blood, murderers, rapists and nonhumans. He does this because his only viable political message is that Americans should be afraid and that only he, a genius outsider, can save them. That’s why he scuttled Congress’s recent attempt to pass a tough immigration law. It would have interfered with his strategy. His message of fear is why he won in 2016 and why he almost won in 2020. In 2024, he’s using the same playbook.

We are a nation in decline and the economy is in ruins, he says. When, in fact, the Biden administration helped the economy escape the near recession that Trump left behind. When Trump’s term ended, the unemployment rate was 6.3 percent. Today it is 4.2 percent. During Trump’s term, the nation lost a record 2.9 million jobs. In the last three-plus years, it has gained more than 15 million jobs. Sure, the inflation rate was high for a while, and prices have not come down. But the pandemic had a lot to do with that, just as it had to do with Trump’s awful economic numbers. But since 2022, inflation has slowed. Today’s inflation annual rate is only 2.5 percent. Even the fiscally-conservative

Federal Reserve says that all indications are that the economy is in good shape. Yet Trump wants us to be afraid. He tells you over and over again that only he can slow an inflation rate that is already under control.

Fear is his strategy.

After his defeat in 2020, Trump stoked America’s political fears with the lie that the election had been rigged. Believing his lie, thousands descended on the Capitol on January 6, 2021. They beat police officers and threatened to hang the vice president to stop the constitutional transfer of power. To no one’s surprise, Trump now is claiming that the 2024 election will be rigged.

He’s spreading fear again.

Americans are tired of being afraid. It’s time to vote against Trump’s message of fear.

Jim Patrico Plattsburg, Mo.

DAVID RICE

JAMEY

Oak St. Market Awards Scholarships

Congratulations to Emma Elliott (left), Connal Anderson (represented by sister Liberty Anderson, center) and Owen Frazier, who were the recipients of Young Entrepreneur Scholarships through the Oak Street Market in Lathrop. Goppert Financial Bank and Fancy Paws Grooming sponsored the scholarships, totaling $700.

Lathrop’s Sellers Selected

Carrie Sellers, an area child advocate from Lathrop, has been selected to participate in the Kids Win Missouri Early Care and Education Leader Fellowship for 2024-2025. The fellowship was launched in 2022 to give childcare providers, parents, and caretakers across the state a voice in the policymaking process and a seat at the table in advocating for policies that impact child and family well-being. “As a parent who has faced my own childcare challenges, I understand the importance of providing parents with peace of mind, knowing their children are in a safe, nurturing, and educational environment. After 29 years in early childhood education, I joined this fellowship to grow and explore new approaches to supporting the development of the whole child alongside families,” said Sellers, who is an owner and director of a child care center as well as a mother of four and grandmother of ten.

Prescription Medication Take-Back is available every weekday at our office. Secure medications in a plastic bag with no holes. Use caution when handling, and wash your hands after bagging the medications. Bring them to our office between 8 and 4 weekdays, and we’ll see that they’re properly disposed of at no cost to you.

to

2024 Plattsburg Homecoming Princess Jacey Coldren and Prince Gavin Boyle were crowned Friday at halftime. brett adkison | the leader

2024 Plattsburg Royalty Candidates Ada Gollnick and Caden McLallen.

2024 Plattsburg Royalty Candidates Michael Hull and Brayden Laramore-Yanez.

2024 Plattsburg Royalty Candidates Jacey Coldren and Rylan Langton.

2024 Plattsburg Royalty Candidates Gavin Boyle and Alexis Grayson.

to swoop in and rescue us from these buildings,” she said. “Then I realized, we are the ones we have been waiting for, and I decided it was time for me to invest in Cameron again.”

Hibler has already re-

From Page A1

stored multiple buildings in Cameron and recently became able to purchase the five actual sites in the condemned zone once occupied by Northwest Vision, Eggleston Electronics, Leibrandt Jewelry and Steak and Stuff.

Hibler is working with contractor Leif Johnson on the renovations of the buildings and is closing October 15 at Cameron Title.

Lathrop Living History Festival This Month

The calendar has turned over to October, and before Halloween strikes in Lathrop, some community members will be turning back time to yesteryear.

The Lathrop Antique Car, Tractor and Steam Engine Association will be hosting its annual Living History Festival on Friday, October 11, and Saturday, October 12, at the showgrounds south of town.

Friday is a particularly fun day, as school students from throughout the region attend the festival to see

how life was live a century ago or more. There are dozens of demonstrations and presentations throughout the event. That includes lard rendering, gold panning, corn shelling, well drilling, candle making, saw milling, a blacksmith shop, general store, print shop, wheel wright shop, steam engines, barbershop, broom shop, post office, wood working shop, tractors, sorghum making, butter churning, apple butter, apple cider, apple fritters, crafts and so much

more. The Shoal Creek Posse will be on the grounds each day to perform their historic skits, while Jim Two Crows (Early American History), the Presentation of Abraham Lincoln by Lee Williams, and Professor Farquar with Polecat Annie will each have presentations throughout the show.

Admission is a free will donation. For general information contact Jim Plowman at (816) 896-5546.

69 Highway Closing Fri.

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – A sec-

tion of U.S. Route 69 in Cameron (DeKalb County) is scheduled to close at 8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 4 for a culvert replacement. Crews from Leavenworth Excavating & Equipment Company, Inc., working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, will close the highway just south of the Route EE intersection as a part of an intersection improvement project. Crews plan to reopen the roadway

by 8 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 6.

All work is weather-permitting, and schedules are subject to change. Motorists will need to find an alternate route during the closure. This project is scheduled to be complete in November 2024.

Know before you go by visiting the MoDOT Traveler Information Map for work zone information and road conditions at http:// traveler.modot.org/map/,

or downloading from your smart phone’s app store. MoDOT asks drivers to work with us by always buckling up, keeping your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones. When visiting modot. org, sign up online for work zone updates. Information is also available 24/7 at 888-ASK-MODOT (2756636) or by connecting with us on social media.

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PAYING $75/ACRE FOR

EAST BUCHANAN COUNTY C-1 SCHOOL DISTRICT

Consideration of Project Pursuant to Section 177 .088, Revised Statutes of Missouri, as amended Notice is hereby given to those persons residing within the East Buchanan County C-1 School District (the "District") that on October 21, 2024, commencing at 7:00 p.m. in the District's High School Library the Board of Education is considering a capital facilities lease financing to provide funds for the construction, equipping, and furnishing of a new Middle School; and to complete other repairs and improvements to the existing facilities of the District, pursuant to Section 177.088, Revised Statutes of Missouri, as amended.

By order of the Board of Education of the East Buchanan County C-1 School District this 18 day of September 2024.

9/26, 10/3/2024

IN THE 43RD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, CLINTON COUNTY, MISSOURI

Judge or Division: PROBATE Case Number: 24CN-PR00056

In the Estate of WILBUR LYNN FLETCHER, Deceased. Notice of Letters of Administration Granted (lndedendent Administration)

To All Persons Interested in the Estate of WILBUR LYNN FLETCHER, Decedent:

On September 11, 2024, the following individuals was appointed the personal representative of the estate of WILBUR LYNN FLETCHER, decedent, by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of CLINTON COUNTY, Missouri.

The personal representative's business address and phone number is: MICHELLE L SCHOTTEL, 8909 N MAIN ST, KANSAS CITY, MO 64155

The personal representative(s) may administer the estate independently without adjudication, order, or direction of the Probate Division of the Circuit Court, unless a petition for supervised administration is made to and granted by the court.

The personal representative's attorney's name, business address and phone number is:

MEGAN ALFANO 200 NE MISSOURI RD., STE 200, LEE'S SUMMIT, MO 64086 (816) 774-1107

All creditors of said decedent are notified to file claims in court within six months from the date of the first publication of this notice or if a copy of this notice was mailed to, or served upon, such creditor by the personal representative, then within two months from the date it was mailed or served, whichever is later, or be forever barred to the fullest extent permissible by law. Such six-month period and such two-month period do not extend the limitation period that would bar claims one year after Decedent's death, as provided in Section 473.444, RSMo, or any other applicable limitation periods. Nothing in Section 473.033, RSMo, shall be construed to bar any action against a decedent's liability insurance carrier through a defendant ad litem pursuant to Section 537.021, RSMo.

Date of the decedent's death: 06-MA Y-2024

Date of first publication: 9/19/24

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The Clinton County Road & Bridge department is seeking a qualified individual to operate a batwing and boom mower plus other tasks as assigned. Full-time with benefits. Contact 816-539-2932 to apply.

(10.3.24)

Road Closure for Clinton County Bridge No. 35100022

BRO-R025(23)

This is a notification to notify County Residents of a road closure in Clinton County for the purpose of replacing a bridge over Jenkins Branch on NW 304th Street, near Gower, MO. The bridge is expected to be closed from Monday, September 16th, 2024 through January 16th, 2025 (9/26, 10/3, 10/10/2024)

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CLINTON COUNTY PLANNING & ZONING HAS A PART-TIME DEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR POSITION OPEN. 14-21 HOURS PER WEEK. SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES MUST HAVE: CLERICAL SKILLS, STRONG ATTENTION TO DETAIL AND A VALID DRIVER’S LICENSE. APPLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE IN THE PLANNING & ZONING OFFICE OR BY EMAIL TO: CCZON-

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Column: Danger, decline spur southern border crossings

Why would people leave the only home they have ever known and travel miles by foot to get to the United States? If I had been asked this question six weeks ago, my answer would have been, ‘to find a better life.’ My experience at the border flipped that preconceived notion on its

ear. People from Central America must travel through southern Mexico, one of the most dangerous places on earth. Kidnapping, physical violence, death, and sexual violence are frequently reported. Many are victims of human trafficking. Some migrants hop trains, and surprisingly, it is not illegal to do so, but it is dangerous,

GUNS

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and the elements are deadly. It is extremely hot during the day and a very cold and windy trip at night. One man reported that he was so cold he urinated on himself to stay warm.

The largest group of migrants at the southern border come from Venezuela. In 2023, 85 percent of those attempting to cross the border were former residents of a country under extreme decline. Since 2006, Venezuela’s population has declined by 30 percent. People leaving Venezuela tell us that the grocery store and pharmacy

shelves are empty. Hospitals cannot get needed supplies and medicine for patients. One woman reported that they had to get their water “from the street.” When asked to clarify, she said the government shut the water off to their home, so they went into the street to dig down into the pipes to break them to get water.

Columbians and Venezuelans who travel by foot must cross the Darien Gap land bridge, a 60+ mile land mass through the jungle. There are no roads, no medical facilities, and no

law enforcement. People encounter dangerous wildlife, treacherous water crossings and steep mountains. Colombia’s most powerful drug gang controls the gap. If they make it through the gap they still must travel through five countries before they face the dangers of Southern Mexico. Let us get back to our original question. Why do people leave their home countries to travel through dangerous conditions to get to the United States? They leave because they cannot stay. They leave to survive.

From Guatemala, indigenous women migrate due to physical abuse. In Nicaragua, families are leaving due to economic decline and government repression. In Columbia, people leave due to targeted violence, community confinement, extortion, and forced recruitment.

One woman told of walking her two sons, nine and 13, to the border and watched

them cross the bridge to the US by themselves. Unaccompanied minors are allowed immediate entry into the US. She did it to protect them from being kidnapped by guerilla armies or being harmed by violent gangs. I cannot imagine watching my own children cross into another country without knowing when I will see them again, if ever. I walked over that bridge myself returning from our day trip to Juarez with dozens of other folks; some were visiting friends or family on the other side. Some may have been crossing to complete an errand, or attend a class, return from work, or for any number of reasons. Residents of both cities can obtain a global entry card that allows them to cross temporarily. None of them were crossing to declare asylum, of that, I am sure. Police officers were there to turn them away.

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David Jett welcomed the crowd and offered congratulations for the community’s involvement. Mural artist Daniel Bartle spoke of his work and the warm wishes and encouragement from the people of Plattsburg. He said the praise inspired him as the mural progressed. Charnette Norton spoke to the effort and work that it took to accomplish such a large task. Terry Wood offered a lengthy history of the building and the original owners, C.R. Young and his wife. He also pointed out the depth of history steeped in the community, especially noting Stuart Jenkins. Jen-

kins’ relatives were instrumental in the building where the mural was painted. He, along with his family’s legacy, is part of Plattsburg and Clinton County lore. Lesli Shaver voiced her enthusiasm of the completion and noted that their next project would be the purchase and renovation of the train depot in Plattsburg.

I spoke about the individuals highlighted in the mural. My grandfather, H.O. Tinnen and his wife, Aggie, bundled up their son, Jerald Winston (Skip) and traveled from the community of Ravanna, Missouri, to Plattsburg in 1935. H.O. purchased the building in 1936. They are in the forefront of the mural driving a historic Model T Ford car. Also pictured is Jim Rakestraw and his dog, Shep. Mr. Rakestraw grew up on their small family farm in Illinois. At a young age, he took over the role as head of the family after his father left. He earned many awards for his ability to raise hogs and grow corn. He came to Plattsburg to join the late Eldon Freemen’s ag fertilizer business. When he arrived in Plattsburg there were four plants; they grew to 17 before he sold.

Plattsburg Chamber of Commerce President Sherri Shatto was joined by Sandra Utz as a large crowd gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony. The event concluded with a round of fireworks under the direction of Justin and Jeremy Hartzell.

Beautiful Mural Dedication in Plattsburg

Watch outdeerfor

JEFFERSON CITY – Fall has arrived, which means deer and other wild animals are on the move as temperatures cool and nights become longer. Most deer strikes with vehicles occur during October and November and between the hours of 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Missouri Department of Transportation reminds motorists to be prepared for the sudden appearance of wild animals on Missouri roadways throughout the fall months.

“Deer increase their movements during the breeding season, which begins in October and peaks in midNovember,” said Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Deer Biologist Jason Isabelle. “Because of this, motorists should be especially cautious when driving this time of year.”

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri has consistently ranked 10th to 15th in the country for collisions involving deer each year. In 2023, Missouri drivers experienced

involving deer.

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Plattsburg couldn’t have picked a better day to dedicate the new Jefferson Highway mural on the west side of Tinnen Town Hall on Saturday, September 28. The Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony (above). brett adkison | the leader

Ford Model A’s and Model T’s lined Main Street outside of the Clinton County Courthouse on Saturday as part of the mural dedication. The artwork depicts the Jefferson Highway, which ran from New Orleans to Canada. brett adkison | the leader

(Above) Artist Daniel Bartle spoke Saturday about his work on the mural. The Plattsburg Community Betterment and Arts Council, Clinton County Historical Society and Steve Tinnen and family were instrumental in the logistics and ideas that went into the mural.

| the leader

(Above) The vibrant mural is located at the corner of Main and Maple in Plattsburg. Just across the street is the first mural in a series, which depict the area’s migratory birds.

Terry Wood with the Clinton County Historical Society has been a leader in establishing Plattsburg’s memorial efforts with the Jefferson Highway. He spoke of the highway’s history Saturday, including an old local sign that marked the roadway. brett adkison | the leader

Plattsburg beats EB, keeps up momentum

The Plattsburg Lady Tigers softball team continued to gain steam in the last week, winning three more games and running their record to 11-3.

That includes a 15-0 victory over East Buchanan this past Tuesday at Perkins Park. In that contest, Addison Ford knocked in three runs and scored three times, while Lilly Nelson scored twice and knocked in two RBIs. Sophie Schmitten scored three times while both Sophia Hadley and Madison Huke knocked in three RBIs each. Allie Roberson and Rylan Burnett each scored twice.

Penelope Irizarry

knocked in two RBIs while striking out four batters in only three innings of work in the circle.

A day earlier, Plattsburg defeated DeKalb 11-5, also at Perkins Park. Ford scored three times while Schmitten and Nelson each scored twice. Hadley scored twice while going three-forfour at the plate. Roberson and Irizarry each had a pair of RBIs.

Last week, Irizarry tossed a gem against Hamilton, allowing just five hits and two walks in seven innings while striking out four batters and helping the Lady Tigers to the 7-2 victory. She also went threefor-three at the plate with

PHS Tigers Bounce Back

Plattsburg thumps KC East on Homecoming

by

A week removed from suffering their first loss of the season, the Plattsburg Tigers bounced back in a big way last Friday, September 27, during their Homecoming game, defeating Kansas City East Christian Academy, 74-28.

The Tigers’ running game, which saw its fair share of struggles against LeBlond the week prior, was a force against the Lions. Plattsburg finished with 347 rushing yards.

Leading the way was senior Donte Bingham with six carries for 93 yards with one touchdown. Junior quarterback Jaiveon Grayson carried the ball four times for 73 yards with a touchdown. Freshman Jessiah Berry had 62 yards, meanwhile junior Wyatt Davis and freshman Brycen McClelland both ran for over 50 yards.

Grayson continued his development at quarterback, completing five of ||Continued on B8

Bulldogs on the Loose

The Lathrop Mules football team managed a few early power punches, but it was East Buchanan who rolled out of the Former Mule Capital of the World with a big victory on Friday. East Buchanan (4-1) broke out of its offensive doldrums for a 63-19 victory at Lathrop High School last week, dropping the Mules to a 1-4 record midway through the season.

The two teams appeared set for a tight battle early on, as both teams scored twice in the first quarter. But East Buchanan pulled away from there, leading 35-13 at halftime and cruising to the win.

Aidan Smith led East Buchanan with 125 yards rushing on 13 carries, including a touchdown, while Ben Rhoad ran for 85 yards for three touchdowns while adding a 19-yard touchdown pass to Clark Scott. Bode Griffin ran for 78 yards, Finley Fisher scored on a 77yard touchdown run and Reece Dixon added two rushing touchdowns.

On defense, Coleson Orstad led East Buchanan with four tackles and four assists. Dixon had three tackles and four assists, while Landon Smith and Griffin each had a sack and two tackles for a loss.

For Lathrop, Elijah Crain ran for all three of the Mules’ touchdowns on Friday. He had

(Above) Plattsburg sophomore Sophia Hadley barrels up with the ball Tuesday. (Right) East Buchanan shortstop Makenzie McDowell first to first . brett adkison | the leader

FALL SPORTS

The Plattsburg Lady Tigers volleyball team continues to build momentum under head coach and former Lady Tiger Hayley Graham.

This season, the Lady Tigers are 11-6-2, including a record 6-2-2 in tournament play. The majority of those losses have come against Class 2 opponents, and with Plattsburg dropping down into Class 1 this year, the Lady Tigers could ultimately find themselves pushing through to the state playoffs later this month.

And that push would happen in front of the home crowd, as the Lady Tigers are slated to host districts at Plattsburg High School.

Much as they did in their first two seasons, the junior class is leading the way for the Lady Tigers in 2024. That includes big contributions from Shay Steggall, Reece Biggerstaff and Izzy Parra, who form the foundation of the team. Impressively, the Lady Tigers have crafted their winning record without the services of junior Letecia Howard, one of the best athletes in the area, who has been out with injury.

Alexis Grayson and Brayden Laramore-Yanez are the two seniors on the team. Grayson has been a key piece in the varsity lineup since she was an underclassmen, and her experi-

Returns will lead younger PHS cross country runners

The Plattsburg cross country team will be without the services of long-time members Logan Fuhr and Alice Nelson, who graduated last spring, but the program will benefit from two seniors in 2024—Logan Reynolds for the boys team and Loralie Matsukavich for the girls. The duo brings a ton of running experience to the program.

“Being the only return-

ing boys runner from last year, Logan Reynolds has taken over the leadership role that was left by Logan Fuhr,” said head coach Tim Stockdale. “If Logan continues to work hard in practice, I believe he will have an opportunity to make it to state come November.”

That leadership will be key, as the team has three first-year runners on the team—junior Elijah Kittelson and freshmen Oskar Kittelson and Nathan Curtis.

Stockdale said that they’re young but they’ve gained endurance in practice and the early part of the season.

Matsukavich’s running experience comes away from the cross country course, having been a key fixture with the spring track and field program. That should translate well to the fall season, however.

“She was one of our state qualifiers in track last year, so I already knew that

With their juniors and seniors leading the way, and a former Lady Tiger—Kelsie Lewis—at the helm, the Plattsburg softball team is putting together an impressive fall.

As of Monday, the Lady Tigers are 9-3 on the year, their only losses coming against Mid-Buchanan (16-1), South Harrison (13-8) and Lawson (13-6). Plattsburg is on pace for its third-straight winning season, having finished last season 21-7 and 14-12 the year before that.

A trio of juniors has been the tip of the spear for

the Lady Tigers. While Lilly Nelson brings both athleticism and a powerful swing to the catcher’s spot, Sophie Schmitten has unparalleled speed, making her dangerous on the bast paths and in the outfield. Meanwhile, Penelope Irizarry returns to the circle, where she has become one of the most dependable pitchers in the region.

“Nelson is a big leader on the field and brings energy to everyone,” Coach Lewis said. “She has a way of lighting people up and supporting them. She is a strong infielder but after needing to fill a catcher’s spot, she stepped up

and put the team first and has done really well behind the plate. She also has succeeded at the plate with her bat, hitting in the 3 hole for us. She is able to make adjustments within an at bat which allows her to perform and excel at whatever job is needed. Schmitten is also a key role in our line-up in the lead-off spot. She gets us going and is not an easy out. Her speed also helps us in the outfield with the area she is able to cover and is able to turn a usual hit into an out. Irizarry has been a big player on the mound and has helped offensively this year as well. She is able

The 2024 Plattsburg softball team (left to right). Front Row: Sophie Schmitten, Rylan Burnett, Kaylee Wehmeyer, Sofia Perez, Avery Mumm, Allie Roberson, Madison Huke, Arianna Douglas. Back Row: Coach Sydney Stephens, Addison Ford, Alivia Lloyd, Ariana Alas, Lilly Nelson, Head Coach Kelsie Lewis, Penelope Irizarry, Charleigh Mooney, Sophia Hadley, Avery Burnett, Coach Cal Swickard. photo

The 2024 Plattsburg cross country team. Front Row (left to right): Nathan Curtis, Elijah Kittelson, Oskar Kittelson. Middle Row: Caitlyn Curtis, Hala Finley, Coraline Moddy, Katherine Middlebrook Back Row: Loralie Matsukevich, Coach Stockdale, Logan Reynolds.

photo courtesy of spillmycup photography

The 2024 Plattsburg volleyball team. Front Row (left to right): Lillian Fuhr, Tanisha Gallen, Reece Biggerstaff, Shay Steggall, Mattie Dohle,Brynnelynee Weavers, Allie Stockdale, Audrianna Grayson, Madison Risch. Back Row: Coach Kally Graham,Mira Armstrong, Falynne Weavers, Ava Norton, Ava Wendel, Brayden Laramore-Yanez, Alexis Grayson,Brylee Pettipiece, Brooklyn Crowley, Izzy Parra, Maddy Bentz, Head Coach Hayley Graham.

From Page B2

Loralie is a great athlete,” said Stockdale. “She has looked sharp these first couple of weeks of practice. She is a competitor and I am looking forward to seeing what she can do on the course.”

The Lady Tigers will also benefit from the return of junior Caitlyn Curtis, who will have a major leadership role on the team.

“Caitlyn Curtis is our only returning state qualifier from last year’s team

and is our leader of the girls team,” said Stockdale. “Caitlyn has trained hard this summer and is really looking fast in practice. She is very motivated and I am excited to see where we are at as we begin competing.”

Sophomore Hala Finley is also returning after a strong freshman campaign, while freshmen Katie Middlebrook and Coraline Moody also join the team.

PHS Softball, From Page B2

to hit her spots and is confident with all the pitches she throws. When the team has a struggle, she rises to the occasion and gets us out of tough positions. Offensively, she has done really well with being able to do her job with moving runners or getting us the big hits we need.

The Lady Tigers also benefit from an experienced group of seniors that add leadership to the lineup. Those seniors include Allie Roberson, Sophia Perez, Avery Mumm, Kaylee Wehmeyer and Madison Huke.

“The seniors have taken pride in doing what

is right and leading with how they put in the work,” Lewis said. “You come to the field on the weekend and you see Kaylee Wehmyer getting extra reps in the outfield and hitting. Mumm showed up every day to weights and open field in the summer. Roberson is always asking what she can do to improve. Then with Huke, she goes out there ready to ball wherever she is put. It’s a fun group of seniors who are willing and wanting to put in the work to better the team. I couldn’t have asked for a better senior class coming in as a

PHS Volleyball, From Pg. B2

ence will be valuable for a team that remains relatively young.

Sophomore Ava Norton, Allie Stockdale and Mattie Dohle have logged key appearances on the court and are another reason that the future looks particularly bright for the Lady Tigers.

Tigers keep up eight-man success

by brett adkison leader editor

In their second year of eight-man football, the Plattsburg Tigers have continued to find success, winning three of their first four games of the year. And that’s despite graduating many of their key players from the 2023 run to the state playoffs.

To fill the void, the Tigers have turned to a solid group of experienced seniors returning this fall, including receiver/defensive back Gavin Boyle, lineman Jaden Shoniber, receiver/ defensive back Rylan Langton, running back/defensive lineman Donte Bingham, lineman Caden McLallen, lineman Body Mathes and lineman Jackson Crouse. That group also includes five returning starters: Boyle, Davis, Shoniber, Langton and Bingham.

Coach Boswell said the team had a good summer with great participa-

tion both on the field and in the weight room. He added that they saw good growth from key returns, including sophomore Luke Parra, junior Keegan Gudde, junior Camden McLallen, junior Jaiveon Grayson and junior Tyler Ariano, among others.

“Winning always helps build confidence,” said Coach Boswell. “However, it can also create complacency. Coming into our second year of eight-man, the kids have had good energy and are excited about seeing if we can replicate and expand on the success we had last year. We obviously graduated a lot of major contributors, so we will have to do the work of figuring out which players and schemes give us the best chance to win against a very difficult schedule.”

One returnee who has helped anchor the Tigers is Donte Bingham. In an offense packed with weapons

in 2023, Bingham stood out as one of the most dangerous runners in Missouri’s eight-man division and showed he can also disrupt opponents on defense, too, where he earned All-State honors. Boswell pointed to Bingham’s uncommon combination of physical talents.

“He is very fast and naturally strong,” the coach said. “Those are the things that make him an effective runner. A lot of his successful runs involve him running through or breaking a tackle, and then out-running the rest of the defense. He will have to handle a heavier load this season, for sure.”

The biggest questions will need to be answered along the offensive line, where Plattsburg was dominant throughout most of its 2023 campaign.

Some of the contributors there have been returning second-year player Jaden Shoniber, Caden McLallen, Luke Parra,

Brodey Mathes and more. The Tigers also have a young crop of talented players who can make an immediate impact. That includes names such as Jessiah Berry, Kaden Burchit, Braydon Graham and more. Plattsburg opened the year with a pair of victories over Knox County and Schuyler County, but suffered its first loss in Week 3 to LeBlond, 60-12. The Tigers bounced back with a 74-28 win against KC East Christian, and will have a chance to avenge their loss to LeBlond when they head to St. Joseph on October 25. Another game of note, Archie--the undefeated, defending state champions-will come to Plattsburg on October 18 for a big-time tilt. With enrollment on the uptick, school officials expect this could be the final year of eight-man before the Tigers return to 11-man football.

Good luck to all of our area fall sports athletes!

b

Gollnick, Boyd lead a talented PHS golf team

y brett adkison leader editor

The Plattsburg Lady Tigers golf team took big strides in 2023, and with some key returns this fall, that progress should continue.

The team will return state-qualifying seniors Ada Gollnick and Addison Boyd for 2024. That trip into the postseason was formative for both players.

“Addison’s response was that now that she has experienced qualifying for state, she wants her teammates to experience it, too,” said head coach Amanda

Wilkinson. “So she is going to help her teammates improve so that they have a chance at advancing, too. If not this year, maybe in the future. Ada said her takeaway is that she doesn’t take her state qualification last year for granted. She knows that qualifying isn’t guaranteed and that she is going to have to put the work in this season. I think since they both got a taste for it last season, they will strive to make it again this year.”

The duo will be joined by fellow seniors Elizabeth Carnie and Kenlee Fish. Also, senior Madison Huke is joining the team for the first time (dual-sport athlete, along with softball). Coach Wilkinson said she started coaching when these seniors were freshmen, creating a special bond over the last four years.

“Every single one of these senior girls are incredible people, on and off the course,” she said. “They all display great character and leadership, as well as excelling in the classroom. They are supportive and want to see each other do their best and they help their underclass teammates do well. I am a boy mom, so these girls are like the daughters I don’t have.”

The team will be adding Arianna Douglas and Maggie Crouse for 2024.

“They are already showing potential to develop into great golfers,” said Wilkinson. “They are driven and coachable. As the season progresses, I hope to see them continue to master the foundations of golf and grow from there.”

The 2024 Plattsburg Tigers football team. photo courtesy of spillmycup photography

The 2024 Plattsburg golf team (left to right). Front Row: Arianna Douglas, Madison Huke, Maggie Crouse. Back Row: Kenlee Fish, Elizabeth Carnie, Coach Amanda Wilkinson, Addison Boyd, Ada Gollnick. photo courtesy of spillmycup photography

New EBHS runners step-up

It’s a new era for East Buchanan cross country, as the program looks to build a foundation with its young roster.

The EBHS cross country team has just one senior across both the boys and girls teams, that being Katie O’Donnell. She’ll be a vital piece to the equation, providing a road map from

which the younger runners will be able to build and grow.

“Katie brings a lot of leadership to the team this year,” said East Buchanan head coach Jodie Parkhurst. “As our only senior, Katie has embraced the role of helping our young athletes do their best at each practice and meet.”

That youth has already started to shine through.

At the St. Jospeh Christian meet, two freshmen—Alaya Simmons on the girls side and Will Fisher for the boys—logged East Buchanan’s top finishes.

On the boys side, East Buchanan will also lean on Nolan Rust, who brings a lot of varsity experience back to the course for the Blue and Gold.

EBHS softball still young

Victories have been tough to come by for the East Buchanan softball team this fall, but with a young core group of players, the Lady Bulldogs are building toward the future.

East Buchanan has just one senior out for this year’s team, but it’s an important senior, as pitcher Madisyn Miller has returned to the squad after missing her junior year with an injury.

EBHS golf maintains its strong participation

The East Buchanan girls golf program has quickly etched a place for itself among the best small school programs in Missouri, and with a new cast of characters this season, the Lady Bulldogs hope to keep up that momentum.

The Lady Bulldogs lost a trio of seniors to graduation in the spring (including a big name in catcher Abigail Arch-

“Maddie has great leadership with our young team,” said East Buchanan head coach Jami Dodge. “She is able to influence and inspire the team to give their best effort. She is a good communicator and helps when inexperience is evident.”

||Continued on B5

Orstad.

Piper

east buchanan schools

Layla

East Buchanan placed fourth as a team at state last year, but in graduating four contributing seniors—Addi Musser, Anna Kenagy, Hilarry Elifrits and Kylee Clark—there will be plenty of chances for new players to step up.

Two returning starters, seniors Abagail Barton and Laney Wilmes, will lead the way.

“I just want to see them get better as we go,” said head coach Michael Carpenter. “They have done a great job the first three years and now just keep improving, hopefully playing their best golf late in the year.”

Joining Barton and Wilmes as part of the team’s senior trio is Ella Brown, and together they’ll bring key leadership to the team.

“They are all really

great kids and have been very helpful with the younger players starting out,” said Carpenter. “They all have some varsity experience and just sharing that with the younger players has helped a lot.”

Carpenter added that Layla Guthals has done a great job as a freshman, as has Kayleen Atha. The coach also said that Ellie Jackson has done a good job improving since last season and he hopes to see the underclassmen become more comfortable with playing competitive golf.

New Lady Bulldogs keep success rolling on court

Despite losing some of their biggest names from 2023—including the likes of Kylie Clark, Zora Whitt and Anna Kenagy—the East Buchanan volleyball team has continued establishing itself as one of Northwest Missouri’s preeminent programs in 2024.

The Lady Bulldogs won the KCI Conference Tournament championship, have taken the holeshot in the race for KCI’s regular season crown, and racked up 17 wins before the calendar turned over to October. And they’ve done so while being a relatively young team.

All-State senior Rilyn Sherwood leads the team as an outside hitter. Head coach Ryan Horn said that Sherwood

knows what it takes to win, which garner’s respect from her teammates.

“She’s very competitive and hates losing, which I love, but she demands a lot out of herself,” he said. “She isn’t happy unless she is able to do what she thinks is good. I think that attitude spills onto the rest of the team.”

With just one senior, East Buchanan relies heavily on a trio of juniors—outside hitter Layla Watkins, middle hitter Brooklyn Johnson and libero Kaylynn Engnes—for both leadership and production.

“They are definitely helping with the leadership, but they have all three gotten better since last year,” Horn said.

“They got to be a part of that state team and then play full time on last year’s team that

had success. Winning is contagious and they don’t want it to stop, so they have worked hard to make sure that happens.”

The Lady Bulldogs have also sought big contributions from their underclassmen, including Piper Jacobs, Kourtney Keling and Kendyl Edwards. Edwards has become a keystone in their efforts, directing traffic as the team’s new setter. Horn said he has faith in her, having played a lot of volleyball despite being just a sophomore.

“She’s running the offense without asking what to do,” Horn said. “I’m letting her make all the offensive calls and she loves doing it. We are doing things offensively that can really help us. So I’m excited to...see what she can do.”

East Buchanan Cross Country. Front Row (left to right) Audrey Evans, Sierra Simmons, Lilian Rust, Madeline Newell, Katie O’Donnell, Alaya Simmons, Kimmi Kohrs, Clara Mink, Ainsley Stallard. Back Row: Ryan Dicks, Lewis Atha, Nolan Rust, Keith Deckman, Will Fisher, Caleb O’Donnell. photo courtesy of east buchanan schools

2024 EBHS Golf. Front Row (left to right): Molly Whitt, Rosalie Houghton, Miley Brushwood, Kaylynn Enges, Layla Guthals, Elizabeth Tellesbo. Middle Row: Evra Spicer, Ellie Jackson, Ella Brown, Laney Wilmes, Abagail Barton, Kayleen Atha, Seneca Carr. Back Row: Hadlee Shreve, Ellyona Conard, Hailey Rhoad, Lily Curran. photo courtesy of

schools

East Buchanan volleyball. Front Row (left to right): Kayleen Atha, Magnolia Whitt, Taylor

Middle Row:

Watkins, Kourtney Keling, Kaylynn Engnes,

Jacobs, Kendyl Edwards. Back Row: Kamryn Werle, Ellyonna Conard, Rilyn Sherwood, Tibet Brown, Brooklynn Johnson, Allie Kelsey.

New cast of Bulldogs ready to keep EBHS’s momentum

The next chapter of East Buchanan football is here, and it will be up to an entirely new cast of Bulldogs to write their story.

Last May, the football team graduated its most decorated senior class ever, having propelled the program to two state championships, three district titles and two KCI Conference titles in three years, during which the Bulldogs amassed a record of 39-3.

Helping make the transition, East Buchanan won’t be suffering from any lack of leadership, as nearly 20 seniors will fill out the roster for 2024. Those seniors include Jayden Stufflebean, Dylan Davidson, Jacob King, Corbin Allen, Landon Delong, Trey Johnson, Nathan Schilling, Coleson Orstad, Andrew Rhoad, Kade Webb, Kyler Paxton, Ty Ingle, Aidan Smith, Parker Conroy, Gavin Utz, Kyle Parmely, Cayden Ray, Zamual Brushwood and Emery Perry.

Many of these players have had a hand in helping elevate East Buchanan among the small school powers in Missouri, so they know what the roadmap to success looks like.

“This group of seniors is special,” said East Buchanan head coach Dan Ritter. “These seniors have waited their turn and have gotten better, and have gotten better year after year.

The problem was they just couldn’t beat out the senior in front of them last year. So what does that mean? It means I have a group of 20 seniors with no ego about their past accomplishments. These players have a desire to prove themselves! These young men have earned their time on the field and I’m excited to see how they use it.”

East Buchanan will depend heavily on key returns, beginning with Corbin Allen, who is entering his fourth-year as a starter on the line. Coach Ritter said that Allen has been a rock and a big part of both state championship teams. Coleson Orstad also returns to bolster the offensive line and head-up the linebackers. Coach Ritter said he’s a solid All-Conference player and will be a big leader.

Cayden Ray and Trey Johnson played some

games last year while fighting through injuries that limited their seasons. Coach Ritter said they’re both very talented and will have a big impact on both sides of the ball.

Aidan Smith will be a massive returning starter for East Buchanan. With Trevor Klein graduating, Smith figures to be the primary running back for the Bulldogs—a task he’s more than up for. As Coach Ritter pointed out, with Klein out with appendicitis last year for the district title game, Smith stepped up to run for 150 yards and a touchdown, helping lead the team to the title over rival Mid-Buchanan.

“He really stepped up for us last year when we needed him the most,” Ritter said. “He is a good leader and I think he has a lot of talent that people will see soon.”

Other key returnees who helped the Bulldogs to last year’s district title include Ben Rhoad, Landon Delong, Jacob King, Baker Thomas and Kyler Paxton.

Another important void to fill is at quarterback, where former Bulldog Gage Busby emerged as one of the best play-callers in the state before graduating this past spring. His understudy, Phoenix Baugh, is ready to step up and be the next quarterback for East Buchanan. Coach Ritter added that Baugh also brings the capability to run the ball.

“He throws well, he makes good reads and is a leader, he’s just raw,” said Ritter. “He has to prove himself just like the other players stepping into new roles.”

Perhaps the biggest questions aren’t on offense, but rather on the other side of the ball, where East Buchanan held teams to 14

points or less nine times in 2023.

“We need a lot of guys to step up this year on defense and we have quite a few to choose from,” said Coach Ritter. “Ten of the 11 spots need to be filled from last year but I think we have the guys to do it. We are two or three (players) deep of legitimate talent, so un-

til we get a couple games under our belt, I’d rather not speculate on who will emerge.”

So far, so good, as East Buchanan has gone 4-1 to open the year, during which the defense has held all four opponents to 20 points or less.

EBHS Softball,

dekin), so they’ll relay heavily on their returning starters—junior first baseman Lindsey Herpel, sophomore catcher Madelyn McCoy, sophomore catcher Delaney Crump and sophomore third baseman/pitcher Ava Hall.

Coach Dodge added that sophomore Makayla Roe has improved in the batter’s box and continues to make forward strides.

Continued from Page B4

They lead a group of young players looking to gain experience as they take the reins of the program.

“I hope they continue to grow and work hard,”

Dodge said of their younger players. “We work hard on instilling the belief that it is not about perfection, it is about direction.”

East Buchanan softaball. Front Row (Left to Right): Delaney Crump, Ember Sparks, Maddie Miller, Samantha Thornton, Makayla Roe. Middle Row: Rosalie Houghton, Ava Hall, Hailey Moreels, Lindsey Herpel, Miley Brushwood, Zizi Uptegrove. Back Row: Coach Heidi McCoy, Caroline Houghton, Maddie Anderson, Leah Herpel, Madelyn McCoy, Makenzie McDowell, Coach Jami Dodge. photo courtesy of east buchanan schools

Mules searching for their stride early

It’s been a tough start for the Lathrop Mules football team, which has lost four of its first five games. But even in their losses, there have been obvious signs that the Mules are hinting at a higher potential.

Whether they reach that potential will be decided in November, but it began to build this summer.

“We had great buy-in in the weight room and we worked on a lot of mental toughness,” Coach Corey Creason said of his team’s

preseason. “We have had better leadership from our older players and it has trickled down to our younger players to help grow our culture in a positive direction. The players were holding each other accountable with off-season workouts, practices, and other activities.”

Lathrop graduated seven seniors this past spring but benefit from a group of 11 seniors in 2024: Michael McFarland (lineman), Brody Spear (quarterback/ defensive back), Elijah Crain (running back/linebacker), Denton Keel (lineman),

Luke Kidwell (tight end/defensive back), Mason Mudd (offensive line/linebacker), Trevor Nelson (receiver/ defensive back), Brayden Pritchett (tight end/defensive end), Lucas Quinn (receiver/ defensive back), Griffin Schrunk (receiver/defensive back), and Thane Ziemer (lineman).

“This senior group brings a lot of leadership to this team,” said Coach Creason. “Leadership of all kinds. Some are vocal and some are the quiet, lead-by-example types. The underclassmen respect them because it’s not

just lip service; they are practicing what they preach.”

That senior group also includes seven of the team’s 11 returning starters from 2023. That begins with senior quarterback Brody Spear, who gained vital experience under center for the Mules last fall.

“Brody has made strides this summer and we have tailored things to what he does well,” said Coach Creason. “Not just him, but our other quarterbacks. We are going to rely on him to use his legs more this year and that

Lathrop has a mix of youth, experience on diamond

Lathrop’s

Alayna Williams has been a central key to Lathrop’s efforts on the diamond, bringing a combination of strong defense and a powerful bat to the Lady Mules’ line-up.

Through the first 16 games of the season, the Lathrop Lady Mules softball team is 8-8, right at a winning percentage of .500. That might be fitting for the program, which has both a wealth of senior leadership and a young-but-talented group of freshmen who’ve contributed in their very first season.

The Lady Mules have five seniors on their 2024 squad, including Audrey

Davis, Alayna Williams, Chellssie Meyers, Trinity Goodman and Madison Harris. This experienced group has been at the forefront of Lathrop’s efforts on the diamond in recent years, especially Davis, who found her way into the starting line-up as a freshman and has been a central figure in the line-up ever since.

On the flip side of the spectrum, the Lady Mules have seven freshmen on their varsity roster, many of whom have already started

contributing on the field. Those freshmen include Arlie Hawkins, Jo Ashcraft, Peyton Cobb, Rheagan Hall, Lilly Hill, Lauryn Jones and Makenzie Keith.

Lathrop has just two players in the middle grades—sophomore Isabel Kidwell and junior Hanna Pritchett.

All together, the mix of youth and experience is exciting for Lathrop, as both the future and the present are packed with potential.

In a strong sign, the

teams that are a combined 55-7 on the year. As the schedule lightens up in October, Lathrop could be on verge of playing their best ball of the season.

Strong senior class leads Lathrop Lady Mules volleyball

Packed with senior leadership and returning talent, the Lathrop Lady Mules volleyball team is building its way toward a hopeful postseason run.

The team has nine seniors who will lead the way in 2024: hitter Kyanne Seeley, libero Lily Dietrich, hitter Sidney Westbrook, defensive specialist Dannica Hope, defensive specialist Kirra Gentry, defensive specialist Kiersten Sewell, hitter Madeliene Pollard, hitter Madelynn Pike and hitter Elizabeth Carraway.

“Our seniors are very dependable,” said Lathrop head coach Casey Kelly. “We also have nine of them on the team, so they are really good at dividing their strengths and working together when it comes to the leadership aspect of our team.”

Seeley, Dietrich and Hope return as members of the starting line-up, as does sophomore hitter Jacie Kassanavoid, who as just a freshman last year established herself as one of the best young athletes in the KCI Conference. Coach Kelly said that Kas-

sanavoid’s coachable and competitive nature helps set her apart.

“Jacie plays multiple sports all year round and competes at high levels,” the coach said. “She loves to work hard and seeks every opportunity to help her team be successful in practice and at matches.”

Still, with four key players graduating last spring, there will be plenty of chances for new players to step up and contribute. Coach Kelly has looked to Kiersten Sewell and Sadie Dunivent to fill some of the gaps. The coach said that

Sewell is a leader and brings positive energy, while Dunivent will need to fill the shoes of previous setter Gabby Breuer.

“She is working hard to build her athleticism, communication skills, and leadership on the court every day,” said Kelly. “She is basically the quarterback on the volleyball court, and runs our entire offense. She has impressed me with her willingness to listen and carries the weight of her responsibilities with grace.”

Lady Mules took second place in the Polo Softball Classic last month. Their only loss came to Carrollton, which is undefeated on the season (15-0). In fact, their last four losses (as of Monday) came against

Lathrop running back Elijah Crain finds space to run against Lexington earlier this year. leader file photo

Lathrop senior Dannica Hope serves up the ball in the recent home tournament. leader file photo

first year coach.”

This is the first season under the direction of new head coach Kelsie Lewis, a 2019 graduate of Plattsburg High School. Lewis was a central figure in the softball program’s rise, as the Lady Tigers went 70-29 in her four years. Lewis then went on to play for Division I Missouri State University.

Lewis will also have a good share of underclass-

men with which to start building the future of the program. Those underclassmen include freshmen Avery Burnett, Alivia Lloyd and Rylan Barnett, and sophomores Sophia Hadley, Addison Ford and Arianna Douglas. Hadley and Ford both have varsity experience at an early age that will serve their purpose as they begin to take a leadership role on the team.

Pair of seniors lead the way for Lathrop XC team

Despite being small in numbers, the Lathrop cross country team has several big names back for the 2024 campaign with an eye toward running their best races late into the season.

Lathrop has two seniors out for the squad in Max Gagnon and Brodie Berghager. Both have a lot of experience on the cross country course, especially Gagnon, who punched his ticket to the state championship meet last year as a junior.

“He leads everything we do, from telling kids when practice is to what we do on the course,” said Lathrop head coach Rick Mudd. “He’s a natural-born leader and he’s good at it.”

Another name to watch for is junior Garrett Beane,

who continues to pick up on the sport. Mudd said that Beane recently ran his best race and the coach is pleased with his progress. Beane, of course, has made a name for himself on the wrestling mat, having won a state championship his freshman year. Mudd said he’s the kind of big-time competitor that doesn’t come around very often.

Junior Jacob Clark and sophomore Chance Brassfield are also out for the team this year. Mudd said that Clark puts in the work on the course to be successful and Brassfield is still learning, but has the build to make an impact in cross country.

Freshman Tucker Davis has joined the team and Mudd said he is coming along well and learning how to run a cross country race.

is something he has taken in stride. He does things really well outside of the pocket, on the run where he can have a two-way go. We have worked on hitting those short routes to really focus on when to take a chance with a deep ball.”

The big men in front of Spear also bring back a load of youthful experience. Lathrop returns four starting offensive linemen, including senior leader Michael McFarland, juniors Tucker Henry and Beau McAdams and sophomore Remi Wolfe.

“Toughness, toughness, toughness,” the coach said. “It has been our main theme for our guys up front. We have been young at the spot and we still are in a way. Our most experienced is McFarland and we are moving him back to center to help ‘quar-

terback’ all of our youth up front. We have some pretty athletic linemen, even some of our bigger guys. We are going to use that to our advantage the best that we can.”

Returning pass catchers Lucas Quinn and Owen Chance, as well as returning running back Elijah Crain, will be primary weapons in moving the ball down the field. Unfortunately, Lathrop lost fellow pass catcher Brayden Pritchett to injury.

The Mules will hope to see their returning starters on defense set the tone while some younger players step up and fill some key vacancies on that side of the ball.

“We graduated our toptwo tacklers from last year in Keaton Coots and Carson Clay,” said Coach Creason. “We have moved some guys

around to help with depth. Our defensive line will be an experienced group, as well as our backend. We have had quite a few juniors step in and fill some voids to where we won’t have to play kids two ways. That is going to help us as the season goes on to keep players fresh and healthy.”

He added that, just like last season, building their culture will be a big focus.

“In the end, culture will win over a longer period of time than just pure talent.,” said Creason. “We have pushed these kids harder this summer but some of it is a credit to them. They have pushed themselves in the summer with early morning workouts, holding each other accountable. By that, if someone wasn’t present for a morning workout, multiple players are getting

on the phone to call or text to find out where someone might be or they would show up to give them rides. We are almost to a point where it’s a player-led team without input. The focus is there. They are just taking it one practice or event at a time. This group, overall, wants to be the change in our program and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds soon.”

The Mules opened the season with a key victory over non-conference opponent Lexington, but have struggled since, falling to Christ Prep and Skyline, as well as KCI foes North Platte and East Buchanan. But the Mules have shown sparks of potential in each of those losses, too.

Continued from Page B1

100 yards rushing on just 11 carries. Brody Spear completed seven of his 15 pass attempts for 62 yards while adding 27 yards rushing. Lucas Quinn caught three passes for 41 yards and Owen Chance had a pair of catches for 16 yards. East Buchanan will be back in Gower this Friday for an intriguing match-up with KCI Conference foe Hamilton, while Lathrop has the unenviable task of hosting Mid-Buchanan.

Plattsburg football,

Continued from Page B1

nine passes for 143 yards with three touchdowns. His leading receiver was senior Gavin Boyle with three catches for 106 yards and two touchdowns. Wyatt Davis and Donte Bingham had Plattsburg’s two other touchdown receptions.

Leading the defense was Jaiveon Grayson with eight total tackles. Gavin Boyle and Donte Bingham both finished with

six. Plattsburg caused five turnovers in the victory. Boyle hauled in two interceptions while junior Keegan Gudde had one of his own. Bingham and Davis both recovered a fumble.

This Friday, Plattsburg hits the road to take on New Heights Christian Academy (3-2). The Cougars are coming off a 5450 loss to Appleton City.

Cameron falls to Maryville ‘Hounds

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Softball, Continued from Page B1

an RBI. Schmitten knocked in a pair of runs while going three-for-four with a run scored.

The Lathrop Lady Mules continue searching for their footing on the diamond. They dropped a non-conference match-up against GRC member Trenton on Monday, 9-4. Alayna Williams scored twice while going two-forthree for Lathrop, while Hanna Pritchett and Kenzie Keith each scored runs. Pritchett allowed six hits in two-andtwo-thirds innings at pitcher, with Hamilton earning just three of the six runs they scored off Pritchett.

Last week, Lathrop fell 11-1 against Mid-Buchanan, which moved to a record of 16-1 on the season. The lone fireworks for the Lady Mules came off the bat of Alayna Williams, who hit a solo home run. The Lady Mules were held to just three hits without a single walk.

Regional powerhouse Maryville proved to be too much for the Cameron Dragons on Friday night, earning a 44-6 win and moving to 3-2 on the year. Despite falling to 0-5 this season, Cameron showed positive signs, including rushing for 212 yards while holding Maryville to just 223 yards.

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From

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Plattsburg junior Penelope Irizarry fires off a pitch on Tuesday evening as the Lady Tigers went on to defeat in-county rival East Buchanan at Perkins Park in Plattsburg. brett adkison | the leader

Hudson Lodder led the Dragons with 135 yards on the ground. (Left) Lodder finds room to run

Friday thanks

the craftsmanship of his offensive line.

Jaiveon Grayson (6), Jaden Shoniber (44), Keegan Gudde (9) and the Plattsburg Tigers celebrate an early turnover against Kansas City East Christian on Friday