The Leader • 4-27-23

LEADER CLINTON COUNTY

Elementary principal Chauncey Rardon resigns

For the first time in two decades, the Lathrop R-II School District will be hiring a new elementary principal.

Lathrop Elementary School

Principal Chauncey Rardon sub-

Town hall draws a big crowd

Sewer system, city codes and more headline open meeting

Upwards of 50 residents turned out Monday, April 24, for a town hall meeting hosted by the City of Plattsburg at the Tinnen Event Center. Over the course of the night, residents and members of the city’s leadership discussed numerous topics, ranging from city codes to utility services, and everything in between.

“It’s always good to get people involved and let them feel their voice is being heard, and I think we got a lot of that today,” said Plattsburg Mayor James Kennedy.

The night started with a short city council meeting, during which Mayor Kennedy presented a proclamation celebrating the 2022 Plattsburg Tigers baseball team, which finished third in the Missouri Class 2 State Championships in June. The accomplishment came while the city was going through an administrative ||Continued on A2

mitted his letter of resignation last week, announcing his intention to become the next principal at Hawthorne Elementary in Kearney.

“Over the course of 20 years, Mr. Rardon has been a calm but driving force at Lathrop Elementary School,” said Lathrop R-II

Superintendent Chris Fine. “From Professional Learning Communities and High Reliability Schools, to positive behavioral interventions and supports and response to intervention, Lathrop Elementary has always set the example for how to put student learning above

all else. One thing is certain – his leadership and experience will be difficult to replace.”

Rardon is the third Lathrop administrator to leave the district ahead of the 2023-2024 school year; Superintendent Chris Fine

||Continued on A2

D EALING H EAT

Future of Open Enrollment

Board sets levy request for new middle school

During the monthly East Buchanan C-1 Board of Education meeting, the board recognized outgoing member Rodney Kenagy with a plaque and thanked him for his service over the past nine years.

Superintendent Dr. John Newell said that Rodney, who previously served as the board president,

had been an instrumental part of the board and assisted the district during Dr. Newell’s transition to superintendent, as well as helped guide the board through the current long-range plan for the district.

After the vote to dissolve the previous board and the oath of office was sworn by newly-elected member Ryan Harper, the board elected Dean Walkup again as

president, Jessie Fisher as vice president, Beth Carr as secretary, and Ronetta Walkup as treasurer. Beth Gregory was elected as MSBA delegate and Andrea Wilson will serve as alternate.

The CTA report expressed opposition to Senate Bill 4, currently being considered in Jefferson City.

This bill would create a statewide database that would require a re-

Sheriff’s Report

view of curriculum to be taught in school districts. CTA believes this would eliminate local school districts from being able to determine the curriculum themselves.

The board discussed the ballot language for the proposed levy increase to be voted on in August for the new middle school. There were three issues they had to set-

||Continued on A2

The Plattsburg Tigers baseball team was at home at Perkins Park last Thursday, falling in a valiant effort against North Platte, 3-1. (Above) Despite the loss, Plattsburg pitcher Hunter Risch threw a gem Thursday, striking out five batters in a complete-game effort. More on page A7. brett adkison | the leader

SPRING SPORTS

Plattsburg Town Hall, Continued from Page A1

transition last year. Thursday, May 4, will be Plattsburg Tigers Baseball Day in the city.

Two representatives from the engineering firm Lamp-Rynearson were in attendance Monday to give a presentation on the city’s proposed sewer inflow and infiltration report. The plan calls for smoke testing the town’s sewer system to see where storm water might be entering, along with testing the pump stations and surveying the community to find any problem areas. By limiting the inflow of drainage water, the city can save money on treatment costs while reducing the load on the treatment plant. Crews will need to wait until the ground is dry to test properly, so it could be July before efforts begin.

The council went on to approve an engineering agreement with Lamp-Rynearson for $82,700. The agreement is contingent on a $50,000 grant from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Before closing the meeting, the council ap-

proved the destruction of old city records that are no longer needed. City Administrator Chase Waggoner said the city follows strict regulations when it comes to the destruction of old records to ensure they are unneeded.

The meeting moved on to the town hall portion, which began with city code enforcement officer Jim Bonebrake, who spoke about some of the more prevalent codes – keeping grass and weeds below seven inches, disposing of trash and yard waste in a timely fashion, parking vehicles on improved surfaces (gravel, concrete, etc.). He said the latter has been a big issue, with some residents parking their vehicles in the grass of their property. He asked that anyone planning improvements to their home or building to contact his office with any questions, especially permitting.

Both Bonebrake and Police Chief Dave Couzens said they prefer working with property owners to address code issues, rather than issuing copious citations.

Touching on an on-

going topic, one resident asked about keeping roosters inside the city limits. Waggoner said that most on the city council and in the town’s populace prefer not to allow roosters, but added that the city is considering allowing hens. Councilman John Mirosh questioned the difference made by roosters and the city’s numerous barking dogs.

“The chicken situation is a sticky situation because there’s pro and con,” said Mayor Kennedy after the meeting. “There are so many people for it, so many people against it – we’re just kind of stuck in the middle. It’s easy to make a decision when everybody is in favor. It’s hard when you have to choose which one you think is better for the community.”

The city’s existing codes can be found online on the city’s website.

On the topic of loose dogs in the city, Chief Couzens said they are doing what they can to keep up, adding that the local dog pound is currently full. He said posts on Facebook often find the original owners, and that all

East Buchanan School Board,

tle. First was a name for the proposition, second was whether to put a sunset clause on the proposition, and last was the amount.

The board chose to name this issue Proposition 1, with a sunset clause of 20 years, and the levy amount determined by the board will be set at 65 cents per $100 assessed value.

The salary committee sent out 33 surveys and received 12 back. Currently, East Buchanan is ranked third in the KCI Conference. The committee is looking at a base increase in the certified salary schedule while

maintaining the current insurance with the district paying 100 percent, continued dental and life insurance, and maintaining the sick and personal days currently provided. The board voted to add $1,000 to the base with appropriate increases to the steps, as well as approving the para-professional, coaches and extra duty pay schedules. A full-time social worker position was also approved.

The board also approved a new phone service contract to eliminate the current system, which is 15-years old. The up-front cost of this

dogs are supposed to be on a leash.

Cody Streeter, director of the city water plant at Smithville Lake, said the city performed a free chlorine conversion to the water lines last fall, which has increased the quality of water in Plattsburg. One resident asked what could be done to increase water pressure on the north side of town, to which Waggoner said the town’s proposed new water tower will help. That project is expected to go out for bid late this spring or early this summer.

Public Works Supervisor Justin Hartzell explained the many facets of his department’s work, including city streets, park maintenance, the water and gas systems, and more. He said they’re aiming to do some chip and seal work to some roads this fall. One resident asked about the easement and maintenance duties along 116 Highway (Clay Avenue) in Plattsburg. Hartzell believes these responsibilities fall on the Missouri Department of Transportation, while the

Continued from Page A1

system will be $5,200 with a monthly cost of $168 for 44 months. A new copier contract was also approved, reducing the monthly cost for machines and service as well as a reduced cost for copies made.

The only contract tabled for the time being was regarding the resource officer with Clinton County Sheriff’s Department. It was tabled due to some language in the contract the district lawyers wish to review.

Dr. Newell provided the board with his update. He said IDS will be coming to the district in May to meet

resident said he had contacted MoDOT, which said it’s the city’s easement. Alderman Ken Tongue suggested that the parties work to get the proper answer in writing to avoid confusion. A couple residents also passed along possible problem areas in town when it comes to storm run-off and drainage.

Chief Couzens said the police department staff is short by one officer, but with eight others at their service, the department has been able to maintain 24/7 service. He also said he’s working on a pair of ordinances that will address concerns with the use of golf carts and UTVs and city streets, as the department has received complaints of some drivers being too young, among other concerns.

One resident asked about the location of a commercial dumpster on Broadway near downtown. Waggoner said the dumpster had been in the nearby alley, but the trash truck previously would need to cross on private property to get to it. Waggoner said it was placed on Broadway over two other

spots (including Main Street and Locust) because Broadway offered more space and was the least impactful.

The meeting was testy at times. Downtown merchant Jorge Fuentes spoke and reiterated his claim that he was harassed by Mayor Kennedy (also a downtown business owner) last summer, stating that Kennedy had said he would run Fuentes and Lisa Crawford out of town. Kennedy again denied the claims. One attendee on Monday claimed to have witnessed the incident. Councilman Tongue said that complaints of Kennedy’s alleged actions as a private citizen do not fall within the municipality’s jurisdiction, but similar actions in his official capacity of mayor would, and he asked that everyone keep that in mind.

City officials and attendees went on to discuss several more items, including the city codes, more drainage issues, parking regulations, and more.

with the public and staff regarding the proposed levy to build a new middle school. He also reported on the Teachers Leadership Group, and the possibility of discussion at the May monthly meeting for girls’ soccer, a mowing contract for Easton, and a middle school sports proposal.

Special Services Director Heidi Shoemaker report-

ed to the board that there were 48 screenings coming up. She also reported the kindergarten roundup results and an overview of the Job Olympics held at the high school gym in March.

East Buchanan Middle School Principal Dr. Schilling reported to the board the building attendance was currently at 96 percent, with four students currently hav-

ing perfect attendance for this school year.

Elementary principal Josh Barker reported to the board that the sunshade provided by the PTO had been installed.

The next scheduled meeting of the East Buchanan school board is scheduled for May 22 at 7 p.m.

Rardon Resigns, Continued from Page A1

will retire from the district at the end of June, while Lathrop Middle School Principal John Goodin is also leaving Lathrop for a principal’s position at Kearney.

The district has hired Dr. Adam Willard to replace Fine next school year, while former Lathrop Middle School Principal Andy McNeely (who this year served as the high school assistant principal and athletic director) will return to that post. Lathrop High School Principal Robert Bowers is the lone member of the district’s administrative leadership expected to return to his post in 2023-2024.

“In February of 2003, this district took a chance on an eager young educator from Brookfield to lead Lathrop Elementary,” wrote Rardon in his resignation letter. “After twenty years as principal, this opportunity has been the most impactful decision of my life. My wife, Crystal, and I were able to raise our three boys, Chauncey, Caden, and

Corby, in this school all 13 years of their education. This school and community welcomed us with open arms, and my wife was able to establish her in-home preschool daycare, which has served several of our families for many years. Despite my plans to work at another school district, we have no intention of leaving Lathrop, and hope to continue to be a part of the community.”

Rardon wrote that he’s grateful to the teachers with whom he’s worked at Lathrop, noting the major changes they navigated together over the years, including the pandemic and the historic switch to the four-day school week. He said he will miss greeting students in front of the building each morning and seeing former students who are now parents.

“I will miss the administrative teams I have worked with,” Rardon said, “the amazing teachers I had the pleasure of leading, the hard-working secretaries, cooks, custodians, paras,

and bus drivers who have provided the under-appreciated services we need, and I’ll miss all of the eager-tolearn students who fill our classrooms with excitement, and their parents that have trusted me with their child’s education.”

Fine said that the district will take applications for the principal’s position through May 5 and conduct interviews May 6 through May 9 in hopes of having a candidate for the board meeting on May 10. Though the vacancy comes later in the optimal hiring period, Fine said they should be fine, adding that several staff members are likely to apply for the position.

The Lathrop R-II Board of Education met and approved Rardon’s resignation on Thursday, April 20. The board also approved the resignation of elementary teacher Cody Wilkerson and received the resignation of elementary computer lab teacher Susie Lantz.

Clinton County Sheriff’s Department’s Weekly Activity Report

Friday, April 14

4:06 a.m.: Medical on O Highway in Grayson.

9 a.m.: Commercial alarm on East Street in Plattsburg.

11:57 a.m.: Medical on W. Maple in Plattsburg.

12:57 p.m.: Controlled burn on Somerset in Gower.

1:18 p.m.: Medical on Evergreen Street in Cameron.

3:14 p.m.: Trespassing in progress on Snow Drive in Holt.

3:50 p.m.: Careless and imprudent driving on 116 Highway in Plattsburg.

3:54 p.m.: Domestic in progress on Park Street in Lathrop.

3:58 p.m.: Natural cover fire in Holt.

4:04 p.m.: Motorist assist at Lathrop park.

5:18 p.m.: Medical on Lakeview in Gower.

5:25 p.m.: Domestic in progress on F Highway in Trimble.

6:26 p.m.: Motorist assist on 116 Highway in Clinton County.

6:40 p.m.: Careless and imprudent driving in Gower.

6:43 p.m.: Controlled burn on SE Barnesville in Lawson.

6:55 p.m.: Structure fire in Faucett.

8:10 p.m.: Stealing on NE 288th Street in Turney.

8:30 p.m.: Controlled burn on 308th Street in Turney.

8:41 p.m.: Natural cover fire on NE 188th Street in Holt.

9:01 p.m.: Medical call on 288th Street in Turney.

10:16 p.m.: Juvenile problem on Grimes Road in Clinton County.

11:32 p.m.: Medical call on W. Osage in Plattsburg.

11:33 p.m.: Medical call on Gregory Drive in Gower.

Saturday, April 15

1:18 a.m.: Medical call on E.

Clay Avenue in Plattsburg.

2:06 a.m.: Suicidal subject on Springtown Road in Clinton County.

6:30 a.m.: Motorist assist in Lathrop.

8:31 a.m.: Animal call on SW Middle Road in Plattsburg.

8:40 a.m.: Fire on I-35 in Holt.

11:15 a.m.: Controlled burn on NW Freeman in Plattsburg.

11:19 a.m.: Structure fire on 358th Street in Cameron.

11:36 a.m.: Careless and imprudent driving on I-35 in Clinton County.

11:57 a.m.: Fire on Dewey in Plattsburg.

12:48 p.m.: Medical call on E. Clay Avenue in Plattsburg.

1:11 p.m.: Animal call on Fairway Drive in Plattsburg.

1:36 p.m.: Medical call on Hoovers Place in Lathrop.

1:59 p.m.: Commercial alarm on Center Street in Lathrop.

2:50 p.m.: Careless and imprudent driving on I-35 in Clinton County.

3:23 p.m.: Trespassing on W. Concord in Plattsburg.

4:04 p.m.: Residence check on Wohlford in Trimble.

4:25 p.m.: Motorist assist on I-35 in Clinton County.

4:51 p.m.: Fire alarm on N. East Street in Plattsburg.

5:02 p.m.: Domestic on South Street in Lathrop.

5:31 p.m.: Medical call on N. Main in Trimble.

8:07 p.m.: Animal call on Faith Street in Plattsburg.

8:38 p.m.: Fire alarm on 116 Highway in Plattsburg.

9:41 p.m.: Residence check on N. Faith Street in Plattsburg.

10:29 p.m.: Careless and imprudent driving on I-35 in Clinton County.

Sunday, April 16

12:54 a.m.: Medical call on N.

Main in Plattsburg.

2:44 a.m.: Vehicle crash on NE A Highway in Cameron.

4:56 a.m.: Smoke investigation on Center Street in Lathrop.

9:59 a.m.: Medical call on 169 Highway in Gower.

11:19 a.m.: Medical call on Frank Street in Edgerton.

12:29 p.m.: Animal call on K Highway in Plattsburg.

12:49 p.m.: Animal call on SE 222nd Street in Plattsburg.

1:19 p.m.: Animal call on PP Highway in Holt.

1:43 p.m.: Trespassing on 121 Highway in Cameron.

1:44 p.m.: Fire alarm on N. East Street in Plattsburg.

2:45 p.m.: Animal call on U Highway in Clinton County.

3:46 p.m.: Vehicle crash on 169 Highway in Trimble.

8:34 p.m.: Medical call on C Highway in Holt.

8:54 p.m.: Suspicious activity on Center Street in Lathrop.

Monday, April 17

2:57 a.m.: Medical call on W. Clay in Plattsburg.

7:13 a.m.: Medical call on 116 Highway in Clinton County.

7:34 a.m.: Commercial alarm on Center Street in Lathrop.

7:43 a.m.: Medical call on 33 Highway in Osborn.

10:04 a.m.: Commercial alarm on Center Street in Lathrop.

10:05 a.m.: Controlled burn on C Highway in Plattsburg.

11:51 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle on Dawn Lane in Gower.

2:14 p.m.: Medical call on Frank Street in Edgerton.

5:51 p.m.: Motorist assist on Railroad in Gower.

9:44 p.m.: Medical call on N. Main in Plattsburg.

Tuesday, April 18

2:23 a.m.: Structure fire on

DISPATCHES FROM THE FIELD

Working together to keep crime out of Clinton County

Well, spring has sprung, or at least that is what the meteorological calendar says. We still see some cold days here and there but, overall, I’m excited for the warm weather and ready to plant our garden!

I was online with a friend one night, discussing the misinformation that quickly gets spread on incidents and happenings. She said, “Larry, you need to grab a cup of coffee, run out somewhere since you like to be out working, pull over to the side of the road, and type a letter about things that are happening.”

So, I’m going to start doing a monthly “Letter from My Mobile Desk,” because my desk is wherever I am.

Since this is my first one and I have six years to get caught up on, let me cov-

er a lot of it by saying thank you. Thank you to the best citizens any sheriff or his staff can ask for. Thank you for your support and for the trust you’ve placed in me to help keep you and your family safe.

To summarize the past six years is nothing short of saying it is a blessing. It may have been rocky here and there, but then again, we would never learn anything if we always had a smooth road in life. We’ve come a long way and will continue to move forward while putting our citizens and staff first, and striving to put this office in the forefront of law enforcement.

Now, before I go down this road, I want to make sure everyone knows that I have a good relationship with all our surrounding sheriffs. We regularly have meetings where we discuss crime trends and a multitude

Nation in Holt.

7:56 a.m.: Medical call on Minuteman in Plattsburg.

9:45 a.m.: Residence check on Railroad in Plattsburg.

9:45 a.m.: Trespassing on County Road 352 in Osborn.

10:15 a.m.: Animal call on Kennedy in Gower.

10:40 a.m.: Medical call on SW Arnold in Plattsburg.

12:51 p.m.: Medical call on Main Street in Plattsburg.

12:52 p.m.: Medical call on Clay Avenue in Plattsburg.

1:09 p.m.: Medical call on Lincoln in Gower.

4:23 p.m.: Officer assists on 33 Highway in Lathrop.

5:39 p.m.: Animal call on South Street in Plattsburg.

6:30 p.m.: Noise complaint on East Street in Lathrop.

9:35 p.m.: Assist another agency in Holt.

10:40 p.m.: Medical call on Maple Street in Plattsburg.

10:48 p.m.: Motorist assist on VV Highway in Gower.

11:09 p.m.: Animal call on 69 Highway in Clinton County.

Wednesday, April 19

12:58 a.m.: Commercial alarm on Center Street in Lathrop.

4:02 a.m.: Medical call on Aller Avenue in Edgerton.

8:26 a.m.: Animal call on NW 356th in Stewartsville.

10:52 a.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on I-35 in Lathrop.

12:32 p.m.: Medical call on NE 178th Street in Holt.

1:44 p.m.: Medical call on NE 178th Street in Holt.

6:33 p.m.: Harassment on Hallar Avenue in Gower.

7:10 p.m.: Medical call on 33 Highway in Holt.

11:33 p.m.: Motorist assist on I-35 in Clinton County.

Thursday, April 20

1:59 a.m.: Medical call on Dolinger Court in Trimble.

7:57 a.m.: Vehicle crash on 116 Highway in Lathrop.

9:44 a.m.: Child abuse call in Gower.

9:48 a.m.: Medical call on Main Street in Plattsburg.

9:51 a.m.: Medical call on

Hubbard in Lathrop.

12 p.m.: Careless and imprudent driving on I-35 in Clinton County.

12:03 p.m.: Animal call on 169 Highway in Gower.

1:57 p.m.: Medical call on 169 Highway in Gower.

2:05 p.m.: Trespassing on

Street in Clinton County. 4:01 p.m.: Medical call on Hilltop in Lathrop. 4:27 p.m.: Medical call on

Street in Holt.

p.m.: Vehicle crash on E Highway in Edgerton.

6:16 p.m.: Residence Check on Harrington Lane in Gower. 6:24 p.m.: Residence check on Country Lane in Plattsburg.

6:35 p.m.: Alarm on Easy Street in Lathrop.

7:14

of issues facing the office of the sheriff. But, since taking office, I’ve made it a personal goal to “hold the line” to the best of our abilities. By “holding the line,” I mean stopping crime at our county lines and keeping away those who want to treat this county and its citizens as their playground of victims. This can be accomplished through visual deterrence, previous swift and hard justice for others of the criminal element, and swiftly moving in and removing the criminal element with the cooperation of our community partners, commission, prosecutor and associate judge.

“Fighting crime” and “getting tough on crime” can be easily said, and can be a political promise for some, but in reality, it takes a team effort to achieve this, and the funds to get things

Open enrollment could change the entire game locally

You know you’re growin’ older when... You realize just how much you have to be thankful for until you have to pay taxes on it.

* * * *

The debate about open enrollment in public schools is not a new thing. Open enrollment, along with consolidation, have been kicked around for a long time. That kicking around has become more prevalent in Jefferson City these days with HB 253, sponsored by Rep. Brad Pollitt, R-Sedalia. He testified before the House Elementary and Secondary Education Committee earlier this session.

In essence, Missouri students could apply to transfer to another public school district if the bill passes the legislative hurdles and makes it to the governor’s desk for signing.

So far, none have made it to the governor’s desk, but the wind might be behind the back of those who seek to have that freedom. There are significant hurdles that must be addressed before it would arrive at Governor Parson’s desk, but just that chance should have the local school districts working to stop the legislation.

And here’s why... competition!

“You’re going to hear things like ‘forcing districts to compete against each other,’” Pollitt said, addressing potential pushback to his bill during his testimony.

“This country was built on competition. Why shouldn’t a school district that wants to participate in sports be willing to participate under taxpayer dollars. Why would they be afraid to compete in academic programs? We don’t seem to have an issue with competing in other places,” Pollitt said.

I don’t think the local school districts would like to compete with the neighboring school districts of Kearney and Smithville. Already, teachers and administrators are heading south for better paying jobs. At a recent Smithville Chamber meeting, the school district was ballyhooing about their tests scores, 89-95 percentiles were professed in certain areas. The test scores reported by the Clinton County R-III School District in The Leader were nothing to be bragging about. Student population is dwindling in both Lathrop R-II and CCR-III with East Buchanan holding steady. The potential for CCR-III School District is more dramatic, with an enrollment reported to be less than 150 students from sophomores to seniors next year.

During Mr. Pollit’s tes-

timony, he said thirty-four states have a policy allowing students to attend districts outside their residential areas, with an average participation range from three to eight percent.

While parents of students could choose to apply to leave a district without needing permission, it is the receiving district’s choice whether to opt into the program to receive new students, and to set limits on how many students it will take, at what grade level, and in what building. The bill also sets a cap of four percent to the number of students that can transfer out of a district for the first three years and creates a public-school choice fund of $80 million. The parent is responsible for transportation, but families may be entitled to transportation if the student is eligible for free and reduced lunch. The fund can supplement the costs of transportation incurred by a district or parents.

Not all testimony was in favor of the bill. Kyle Kruse, superintendent of St. Clair R-13 School District, agreed

with the chairman about competition, but questioned what happens if the rules aren’t fair and the playing field isn’t level. He described the St. Clair school district as a “have-not” district, with a low tax rate and assessed valuation.

“The chairman said that competition is a good thing, and he and I agree on that, but it’s not competition if the rules aren’t fair and the playing field isn’t level,” Supt. Kruse said.

“If this bill goes through, we expect to lose a hundred or more students,” he said. “Some will go play softball at Sullivan because they have a state-contending team. Some to Union because they have a beautiful gymnasium. Some to Pacific because of their weight room facilities.”

That surely hits home with the football fans at good ol’ PHS. They have already determined the playing field isn’t level, so they have gone to eight-man football until they can resurrect the 11-man program.

The Missouri Retired Teachers put out a memo also highlighting their objections: lack of data that open enrollment does anything to improve student achievement, potential reduction in school funding, transportation for students could place economic burden on the families, and in some instances, other

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

school districts, academics could suffer if standards and curricula are different, consolidation of school districts (citing the Iowa comparison where their form of open enrollment has resulted in 100 school districts closing).

I don’t know if open enrollment will become a law. There are too many hills to climb between now and the close of the legislative session. What I do know is that location is the key for the local school districts. The CCR-III School District’s location is not as attractive as East Buchanan’s on 169 Highway and Lathrop on I-35. Trimble is part of the CCR-III School District – the Smithville School District is just across the county line.

Some say the grass is greener on the other side of the fence. Open enrollment will provide the water for that grass on the other side.

* * * *

Trivia question: What tax led to the famous Boston Tea Party? A. Tea Tax; B. Real Estate Tax; C. Stamp Act Tax; D. Import trade Tax (find answer nearby).

* * * *

More smiles from Honolulu, courtesy of Jim Nicholson, Island of Oahu.

What happens if you get scared to death twice?

This is my step ladder. I

never knew my real ladder. My wife said I never listen to her... or something like that.

I checked into the Hokey Pokey Clinic and I turned myself around (Trivia answer: The Stamp Act on American Colonists. It was a tax on every single piece of paper they used, however small. Instead of levying a duty on trade goods, the Stamp Act imposed a direct tax on the colonists. Specifically, the act required that, starting in the fall of 1765, legal documents and printed materials must bear a tax stamp provided by commissioned distributors who would collect the tax in exchange for the stamp. The law applied to wills, deeds, newspapers, pamphlets and even playing cards and dice).

* * * *

Food for thought: “I’m proud to pay taxes in the United States. The only thing is, I could be just as proud for half the money.”

Arthur Morton Godfrey (August 31, 1903 – March 16, 1983) was an American radio and television broadcaster and entertainer who was sometimes introduced by his nickname The Old Redhead.

Talk to you next week!

Steve Tinnen stevetinnen@yahoo.com

The Antithesis of American Ideals, Trust and Spirituality

We have forces conjuring opposition to the above guiding principles. Their cause is to degrade the sanctity of our nation and institutions. Leadership of our federal government and some states want to restructure and change the fabric of a people and country – a stabilizing nation now for 246 years.

Their number one agenda is to displace God and promote a secular and materialistic society. All of our agencies – the Justice De-

partment, CIA, FBI, FDA, Homeland Security, our military and others – have adopted very sinister ideas.

The dignity of life is under attack. The unborn, our youth, the working class, the family, the infirmed and the elderly are ostracized. Our culture permits abortion and selling baby parts. Our education system brainwashes our youth, saying our nation’s history is fraudulent, our free enterprise doesn’t work, girls should imitate TikTok and Instagram im-

Jamey & D’Anna Honeycutt

ages, and beyond that, sixyear-olds don’t know their gender and 12 year-old adolescents should transition as some degree of bisexual. California’s proposed law says if a counselor agrees with a 12-year-old wanting a sex change and its against parents’ wishes, the state will take over. Sick!

No wonder the high use of drugs and suicides. Even the AMA wants gender off birth certificates. This dysphoria of gender has exploded with LGBTQ movements.

Publisher Emeritus Steve Tinnen

Tricouple arrangements have become normal. Unscrupulous women may soon just wear a leaf with man’s approval. Somebody has now “flown over the cuckoo’s nest.”

Our government, PA Bragg and Attorney General Garland and radicals are weaponizing political opponents (Trump), conservatives, Christians and Catholics. Churches and pregnancy centers are vandalized.

Congress has initiated the

Restrict Act. One objective is to eliminate Chinese TikTok. But its reach has gone too far. Devious lawyers and politicians will use the bill to restrict speech, communication and certain actions.

Hurrah for Osage County, Mo. Linda Rantz and compatriots designed Tuesday mid-election with same-day paper ballots only. There were no errors and the county was completed at 8:30.

Well, AI extrapolations continue. The firm Open AI produced ChatGPT-3-4. The

platform can produce 310 million words a minute, or if added to your brain, millions of neurons for its functioning. The system is helpful in many applications, such as teaching, coding, music production, job applications, and thousands more. Jobs will be replaced.

AI can overreach. Ethics, mortality and even God’s creation can be manipulated. Why not change artificial to beneficial intelligence?

LeRoy Schwery Lathrop, Mo.

The Big Pink Huddle is this weekend

Rhonda Alexandria

Rhonda Jean Alexandria, 67, of Plattsburg, Mo., passed away April 3, 2023.

She was born on April 4, 1955, to Richard and Mary Frances (Clark) Graham in Plattsburg, Mo., where she grew up and graduated from Plattsburg High School.

Rhonda was united in marriage to Ronald W. Alexandria. They lived in several areas in Missouri, Iowa and Nebraska until settling in Plattsburg, where they made their home and Rhonda cared for her mother.

Rhonda was a member of the Second Baptist Church in Plattsburg. Rhonda’s passion in life was her nieces and nephews. She was a very giving person; to know her was to love her. Most of all, Rhonda loved being with her friends and family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rich-

ard and Mary Graham, and brother, Gary Graham.

Rhonda is survived by her husband, Ron Alexandria; brother, Larry Graham, and wife, Anna; sister-in-law, Lucia Graham; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Services were held April 8, 2023. Donations may be made to Mt. Washington Cemetery. Arrangements: Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Gower.

Rheta McDowell

Rheta Pearl McDowell, 83, of Trimble, Mo., passed away April 18, 2023.

She was born to Kenneth and Hazel (Bratcher) Clements in Walnut Ridge, Ark., December 15, 1939. She moved to Plattsburg, Mo., in 1953, graduated from PHS in 1956 and from Southwest Baptist College in Bolivar, Mo., in 1958. In 1960, she married Wesley McDowell and moved to Trimble soon after. Following Wesley’s death in 2008, she moved to Edgerton, Mo.

Rheta was an active member of Trimble Baptist Church. She loved music, family, people (especially kids), and her Savior, Jesus.

Rheta is preceded in death by her husband, parents, her sister, Lorna Clements, and grandson, Tyler McDowell.

She is survived by her brother, Keith (Sharon) Clements of Plattsburg; sister, Nyla Clements; children,

Curtis of Kansas City, Carl (Christine) of Independence, and Colleen (Doug) Magee of Kansas City; grandchildren, Alex (Courtney), Jessica (Matt), Katelyn (Jimmy), Aaron and Alise; step grandson, Ben; great-grandchildren, Hannah, Lainey, Curtis, Wesley, Gracelynn, Joseph, Jericho, Micah, and Jocelynn (due in August); step great grandkids, JJ and Tristen; nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

Arrangements by HixsonKlein Funeral Home, Gower. Funeral services were earlier this month.

The Community Betterment in Arts Council will present The Big Pink Huddle, taking place at the Plattsburg Community Courtyard (117 W. Maple St.) on Sunday, April 30, from 11:30 AM to 4 p.m.

The Community Betterment in Arts Council is proud to bring the Big Pink Huddle for the first year.

The Big Pink Huddle for

girls and women is a vendor event showcasing many talented artisans, a luncheon with three keynote speakers, four engaging and empowering breakout sessions, and a fashion show featuring fashions from local boutiques and designers.

“What an exciting opportunity for KC Fashion Week to be involved in an

CCHS to present Buffalo Soldiers

The Clinton County Historical Society is excited to present a program for the public by the Kansas City Area Chapter of the Buffalo Soldiers. Their expert storytellers will come in full, authentic costume

event that supports a local community and allows us to share the message of the importance of the tenth-largest fashion week in the nation to the region,” stated Santos Arellono II of KC Fashion Week.

Tickets will be available at the door. More information can be found on the Big Pink Huddle’s Facebook page. The first 100

guests will receive a gift bag from local businesses. The Community Betterment in Arts Council was formed to improve the aesthetics of historic Plattsburg and surrounding communities. With one building mural completed, it is determined to obtain resources for many further projects.

Martha White Turning 90

to the Plattsburg High School Performing Arts Center on Thursday, April 27, at 7 p.m. The program is free but donations are accepted. Don’t miss this “historic” opportunity!

Legion Breakfast

The Gower American Legion is hosting a breakfast on Saturday, April 29, at the Gower Legion Hall from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. It’s a free will donation benefit.

Following breakfast, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Tony Gardner will host a suicide prevention workshop with training.

The Lathrop Garden Club will be hosting its annual plant and bake sale, Saturday, April 29, 2023, beginning at 9:00 am until sold out. The sale will be held at the Lathrop Antique Showgrounds, 2488 SW Hwy. 33, Lathrop, MO.

Lathrop Plant Sale Benefit Taco Bar

Martha White, RN, who worked more than three decades as a nurse at the Plattsburg Clinic under Dr. P.T. Luckenbill and Dr. Larry Ozenberger, is turning 90 years old on Thursday, May 4. Well-wishers can send cards and letters to Martha at P.O. Box 33, Plattsburg, Mo., 64477.

On Sunday, April 30, there will be a community meal taco bar benefiting the Plattsburg Ministerial Alliance at the Plattsburg High School cafeteria from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Ministerial Alliance provides emergency assistance for housing and utilities to residents in the Clinton County R-III School District.

Track teams compete at Cameron, West Platte meets

With the postseason inching closer and closer, local track teams competed in both Cameron and Weston last week.

At the Danneman Relays at West Platte on Friday, the East Buchanan boys finished second while the girls were seventh. The Lathrop boys were fifth and the Lady Mules were sixth. The Plattsburg girls were fifth in their division, while the Tigers boys were ninth.

North Platte won the girls championship, while Christ Prep won the boys championship.

Aidan Hensley won the 1600M for the East Buchanan boys on Friday with a time of 4:45. He was also a member of both the firstplace 4x800M relay (Conroy, White, Paxton, Hensley – 8:42) and 4x400M relay (Conroy, White, Paxton, Hensley – 3:40). Parker Conroy was second in the 800M run (2:08), Chase Meers was second in the discus (38.68 meters) and third in the shot put (38.68 meters). Trey Johnson was second in the long jump (6.08 meters) and third in the jav-

elin (46 meters), while Trevor Klein was second in triple jump (12.02 meters).

For the East Buchanan girls, freshman Brooklyn Johnson continued to impress, winning the shot put with a throw of 11.69 meters. Laney Wilmes was second in the javelin (33.6 meters). Rilyn Sherwood was second in the triple jump (10.29 meters) and third in the long jump (4.78 meters). Adrian Allen took third in the pole vault at 2.3 meters.

For the Lathrop boys, Scott Abbott was second in the high jump (1.75M) and Lucas Quinn was third in the 110M hurdles (17.64 seconds). For the Lady Mules, Autum Nichols was first in the discus with a distance of 33.61 meters. Kinsley Patton was second in both the discus (31.42 meters) and shot put (11.46 meters). The 4x200M relay (Brassfield, Beane, Clapp, Patton) was third at 1:54.

Freshman Letecia Howard had a strong day for the Lady Tigers, placing second in both the high jump (1.65 meters) and 400M run (1:00), while also running in the second-place 4x400M

||Continued on A8

Lathrop upsets East Buchanan, Tigers fall short in battle with North Platte

After knocking off Lawson earlier this month, the East Buchanan Bulldogs baseball team had the inside edge in the 2023 KCI Conference title race. But Lathrop threw a wrench in the path last week.

The Mules (7-9) put together an 8-2 upset over East Buchanan (12-3) on Wednesday, April 19, at LHS. Lathrop’s Grady Miller earned the win on the mound, allowing five hits while striking out eight batters in the complete-game effort.

The Mules did what

few before them managed – finding a way to score against the East Buchanan pitching duo of Gage Busby and Bronco Whitt.

The Mules had six hits in the game, drew three walks and capitalized on a pair of East Buchanan errors. Keaton Coots went two-for-four for Latrhop with a pair of RBIs and a run scored. Cole Chapman was two-for-three with a run and an RBI. Max Gagnon knocked in two runs and scored one of his own. Miller also knocked in a pair of RBIs.

Despite suffering the loss, Busby and Whitt were still strong on the mound.

Busby struck out nine batters while allowing three hits in three and two-thirds innings, and Whitt allowed three hits while striking out a pair in two and a third innings. Of the eight runs Lathrop scored, only four were earned.

At the plate, Mason Brown scored both runs for the Bulldogs, while Busby and Whitt each accounted for an RBI.

The loss came just a day after the Bulldogs earned a 7-5 victory over St. Joseph big school Lafayette. This past Monday, East Buchanan was unable to get back on the winning track, falling to

a strong Savannah team, 100.

The Mules also put up a strong effort against Lawson on Tuesday, April 18, but fell 7-4. Coots was twofor-four with an RBI. Mason Mudd was two-for-two with an RBI, while Ethan Noll, Griffin Schrunk, Grady Miller and Shane Dodd each scored a run. Dylan Smith had a strong outing on the bump, allowing just two hits in five innings while striking out four batters and issuing two walks.

The Plattsburg Tigers fell just short in a KCI Conference bout on Thursday,

(Left) Plattsburg senior Luke Schroeder throws the ball back into the infield after making a diving play against North Platte on Thursday, April 20, at Perkins Park in Plattsburg. (Right) Plattsburg senior Wyatt Moran dives back into first base on a pick-off attempt against North Platte. brett adkison | the clinton county leader

(Left) Plattsburg’s Reece Biggerstaff and Lathrop’s Milana Baber. (Right) East Buchanan thrower Rilyn Sherwood. (Below Left) East Buchanan’s Nolan Rust. (Below Right) Lathrop thrower Jacob Gaskins. brett adkison | the leader

Track and Field, Continued from Page A7

relay (Schmitten, Howard, Parra, Nelson – 4:18). Carson Stockdale was second for the Plattsburg boys in the 400M with a time of 52.71 seconds, while Donte Bingham was third in the 100M dash (11.87 seconds).

In Cameron last Tuesday, the East Buchanan boys finished third in a tough division won by MEC member Chillicothe. The Lathrop boys were fifth and the Plattsburg boys were sixth.

East Buchanan was led by Trey Johnson, who was first in both the javelin (48.8 meters) and triple jump (12 meters). Aidan Hensley was first in the 1600M (4:58) while Parker Conroy was a close second (5:00). Clark Scott was second in the high jump (1.7 meters), Chase Meers was second in the discus (38.4 meters) and Kyler Paxton was third in the 800M run (2:14).

For Lathrop, Scott Ab

bott won the high jump at a height of 1.75 meters.

Lucas Quinn was second in the 110M hurdles (16.65 seconds), Brody Spear was third in the 300M hurdles (46.04 seconds) and the 4x400M relay team (Quinn, Davis, Spear, Chance) was second at 3:54.

Senior Carson Stockdale won both the 400M (54.85 seconds) and 3200M (11:22) for Plattsburg, while the 4x100M relay (Dow, Bingham, Trevino, Braddy) was first on the day at 46.07 seconds.

On the girls side, Lawson won the team title, while Lathrop was fourth, East Buchanan was sixth and Plattsburg was seventh.

For the Lady Mules, the 4x400M relay team (Brassfield, Seeley, Clapp, Beane) was first at 4:27. Avery Patton was first in the high jump at 1.55 meters and Autum Nichols was first in the

435 W. 2nd St., Tina, MO 64682

Casey & Amelia Flinn, Owners

discus (32.96 meters). Kinsley Patton was second in the javelin (34.6 meters) and third in the shot put (11.12 meters). Alayna Williams was second in the triple jump (10.9 meters) and the 4x800M relay (Brassfield,

Market Report from Monday, April 17 • 1925 head sold

SPECIAL COW SALE - FRIDAY, APRIL 28 • 6 PM EXPECTING

600 HEAD!

Eckmann Farms-Complete dispersal - 35 angus cows 3-6yrs old. Start calving September 1. Bred to sydgen angus bulls.

Chris Woodward-Complete dispersal - 50 purebred Charolais cow/calf pairs. 2-7yrs old. Spring calves.

Myron Alexander - 20 black angus heifer pairs. Fancy set. Also selling 2-18 month angus and sim angus bulls.

Michael Liemkuler - 25 angus cows. 5-8yrs old. Start calving October 5th.

Tate Farms - 15 angus heifer pairs. Fancy set tagged to match.

Ryan and Vicky Grant-Complete dispersal - 38 angus cows. 3-6yrs old. Start calving September 1st . Bred to angus and sim angus bulls. Fancy set weaned off big calves.

Jeff Ward - 3-18 month angus bulls.

Stevenson farms - 20 angus cow/calf pairs. 4-6 yrs old. Spring calves by side. Tagged to match.

Dave Henke - 1-3 yr old angus bull.

Kenny Hoard - 15 running age cow/calf pairs.

Todd Eitel - 2-18 month old angus bulls.

4P farms - 65 angus cows. 4-8 yrs old. Bred angus bulls. Start calving September 1st.

Brad Eschenbaugh - 18 month old Deer creek run angus bull.

Michael and Sarah York - 28 angus cows 3-5 yrs old. Start calving August 28th. Bred angus bulls. Fancy set.

Vossler farms - 30 angus cows 4-8 yrs old. 10 first calf heifers. Bred angus bulls. Start calving September 1st.

Todd Kanoy - 2 yr old Hereford bull. Out of domino 1109.

Flanery farms - 2 Shaver angus bulls. 4 yr olds.

Jennings farms - 40 blk and red angus cows. 4-6 yrs old. Bred angus bulls. Fall calvers.

Blake Peters - 9 cow/calf pairs

** NO SHEEP, GOAT & HOG SALE SATURDAY, MAY 20 **

Cattle Sales: Mondays @ 11 am

Sheep, Goat & Hog Sales: 1st & 3rd Saturdays of the month @ 10 am

Special Cow Sales: 4th Friday of the month @ 6 pm

5 weigh cow buyers at every sale!

Very active weigh cow and bull market!

Open all day on Sundays to receive livestock!

Barn: 660-622-4214

• Casey Flinn, Owner: 816-769-7532

Field Reps: Dwayne Penny: 816-506-2776

Bobby Morrison: 816-345-0518

Travis Gibson: 660-646-8337

• Utah Stulz: 660-334-0400

• Ben Peterson: 660-247-2759

• Rick Tate: 660-734-1307

Sheep/Goats/Hog: Clark Allen: 660-973-6826

Find us on Facebook at Tina Livestock Market

• Check out our market report on Cattle Market Mobile!

Check us out on our new website: www.tinalivestockmarket.com

Seeley, Schrunk, Beane) was second at 11:16.

Brooklyn Johnson won the shot put for East Buchanan at 11.47 meters. Aynjewel Jones was third in the 1600M run (6:30) and second in the 3200M (11:16). Layla Watkins was third in

the 300M hurdles (52 seconds).

The Plattsburg Lady Tigers were powered by their relays that day. Both the 4x100M (Bingham, Howard, Parra, Schmitten –51:86) and 4x200M (Howard, Schmitten,

Baseball, Continued from Page A7

April 20, losing to North Platte 3-1. Pitcher Hunter Risch spread out eight hits over seven innings while striking out five batters and giving up just one walk. Luke Schroeder had the Tigers’ lone RBI, which was scored by Keegan Gudde. The Tigers blew past Gilman City on Tuesday, April 18, by a 10-4 score. Senior Luke Schroeder scored three runs while fellow senior Wyatt Moran scored a pair of runs and collected three RBIs. Senior Jackson Lewis scored twice and knocked in a run. Moran threw five innings, striking out seven batters while allowing just three walks and a pair of hits. Risch struck out three batters in two innings.

Plattsburg also pounced on Wellington this past Friday, winning 12-1. Moran cleaned up, going three-forfour with a double, home run, two runs scored and four RBIs. Gavin Carter had

meyer

1:51)

a double and a triple while knocking in three runs. Schroeder and Lewis each scored a pair of runs with an RBI, each.

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION

Butterfly survey training in Blue Springs next month

Kansas City, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will offer a hybrid course on surveying butterfly populations that is both virtual and in-person. The course is on butterflies, their ecology, and how to survey for them. The program is being hosted by the Burr Oak Woods Nature Center staff from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, May 3.

Participants may choose to put their knowledge into action by becoming a Missouri Butterfly Monitoring Network volunteer. After attending the program, volunteers need to choose a sur-

vey course to monitor. Some courses already mapped are available. They will schedule a time to complete one practice survey and data entry with Burr Oak Woods staff. During June and August, a minimum of six surveys must be completed and recorded in an online database.

This is the fifth annual training in the Kansas City area for the Missouri Butterfly Monitoring Network. The network is hosted by Georgetown University with grants from the National Science Foundation.

Some butterfly species such as the venerable mon-

arch have been in decline due to habitat loss and environmental problems. Science-based conservation is working to boost pollinators such as butterflies. People simply interested in learning more about butterflies are also invited to take the course.

This class is open to participants ages 18 and older. Registration is required. To register, visit https:// short.mdc.mo.gov/4QF.

For more information about butterflies in Missouri, https://short.mdc.mo.gov /4Qt.

Parra, Weh-

–

were first on the day, while the 4x400M relay (Wehmeyer, Novich, McClelland, Wade – 4:44) was third. Sophie Schmitten was third in the 100M dash with a time of 13.37 seconds.

(Left) Plattsburg athlete Teagan Sowers in the 100M hurdles last week in Cameron. (Right) Plattsburg’s Donte Bingham in the 100M dash. brett adkison | the clinton county leader

Plattsburg third baseman Jayden Houser chases down a North Platte runner Thursday. brett adkison | the leader

From Sheriff Larry Fish, Continued from Page A3

done. It starts at home, with the values we instill in our kids and what we allow them to get away with. It comes from you saying something about what you are seeing in your neighborhood. It takes law enforcement working together and sharing information, prosecutors working side-by-side with law enforcement and taking cases to trial, and judges handing out tougher sentences and holding criminals accountable. It takes the commissioners and other commu-

nity leaders supporting the efforts of everyone. I can say that, in Clinton County, we proudly stand strong and united on this stance, and will continue to do so.

This late winter to early spring saw a promotion of our Patrol Corporal Joey Pierce to the newly re-opened narcotics investigator with the Drug Strike Force, and a turnover of our patrol sergeant from Joshua Smith, who went to work for the Cameron Police Department, to our new ser-

geant, Matthew Gardner. Gardner is a 20-plus-year KCPD veteran who retired as a sergeant. My staff and I are looking forward to seeing the results of what Det. Pierce and Sgt. Gardner bring to the table for our citizens and this office.

In our ongoing effort to improve our operations, we recently turned our attention toward the manner in which investigations are managed. After our initial assessment, we determined that an additional detective was needed

to assist in completing our internal audit. While remaining within our operating budget, we hired a parttime detective, identified and addressed gaps in our investigative process, and implemented a more streamlined process to ensure we are as efficient in our investigations as possible. Our commitment is to represent every victim as wholly as possible and ensure their offender is held accountable for their actions.

Planned events coming

up in May or June: I will be personally hosting “I Shot with the Sheriff” CCW and defense class. The proceeds from this will go to the investigative squad, the women’s shelter in Cameron and the senior center in Plattsburg. I am in the process of finalizing legal paperwork with our attorney and getting my training course finalized, so keep an eye out for that as it will be a limited class size.

Major Trevor Ballard is putting the finishing touches on our second Citizens

Academy. Watch for him to make an announcement soon on that class. That was a lot to cover in just two pages, but I look forward to the next letter. In the meantime, if there is anything I can help you with or which you would like to visit more on, feel free to reach out to me via an office visit, phone call or email. Thank you and God bless.

Carlson visits DAR, Hartzells earn honor

District director speaks to Missouris Shoal Chapter

The Missouris Shoal Chapter of DAR met on Saturday, April 15. The meeting was called to order at 10 a.m. Cindy Weers was the hostess for the month. Guests and visitors for the meeting included Midwest District Director Christi Carlson, the Hartzell family, Carol Freeman, Steve Tinnen and Janette Lile.

The program for the day was by Melissa Vazzano, with the subject being Missouri as a contested border state during the Civil War. District Director Carlson spoke on upcoming events and online platforms for information, including the Daughters Online Community.

The National Defense Report and several chapter committee reports were given before the group moved into the day’s business meeting. Volunteers were needed for the raffle basket for the state conference in May and the chapter was still collecting new or gently used clothing items (business and evening attire) for the Brass Collar Boutique (profits go to state regent project). Kay Peca said that volunteers are still needed for the Tee

A

pair

Up for Veterans Golf Tournament on April 28 at Tiffany Greens. The chapter voted to provide hamburger buns for the event.

The Missouris Shoal chapter will have a booth at the Big Pink Huddle at the Plattsburg Community Center on April 30.

Under new business, it was announced that there will be a Salute to Women Veterans on June 10 in Raytown. The chapter voted to pay $15 to help fund 120 flowers and 120 cupcakes for the event. Lana Wright said she would like to see if

there is any interest at Oakridge in Plattsburg in playing flag Bingo.

Justin and Kami Hartzell were recognized by the chapter with the Excellence in Community Service Award for all of their volunteer work throughout the county.

There will be a National Day

of aces land at PCC

of Prayer on May 4, the Missouri State Conference will be from May 4 through May 7 in St. Louis, and the midwest district meeting is set for September 15 in Raytown.

The next meeting of the chapter will be Tuesday, May 9, for the field trip to the Truman Library.

Work at St. Ann

Extensive renovations at St. Ann Catholic Church in Plattsburg are underway.

The “Legacy of Eternity Campaign” is nearing $1 million dollars in pledges for the renovation of the church, which will require shutting down the sanctuary and all mass services beginning this month and lasting through September or October. According to Rev. Eric Schneider, all mass services will be held in the Parrish Hall located on their Plattsburg campus.

“Our worship services will be held in the Parrish Hall until the renovations can be completed,” Fr. Schneider said in a statement to the congregation.

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“We can accommodate a funeral mass in the hall. It would, however, be preferable to use a church building

if the occasion arises. St. Joseph in Easton has agreed to allow us to use the building if needed.”

The ‘Legacy of Eternity Campaign’ would not be happening without significant growth in bringing new people to experience masses at St. Ann. Before Father Schneider arrived, they had 90 to 95 attendees at weekend masses. They now have around 200 attendees, with expanded services – two masses on Sunday (7:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday).

The renovation from the campaign includes the following: complete removal of tin ceiling and wooden lathe through the original plaster, photography and measurement of original stenciling and murals, and much more.

(Left) Missouri DAR Midwest District Director Christi Carlson. (Right) Regent Carmen Stoneking presents the Hartzell family with an award for Excellence in Community Service.

It’s not yet May, but the Plattsburg Country Club has already witnessed not one, but two, aces in 2023. (Left) Josh Hendrix sank the first hole-in-one on February 21, using a nine iron on the 131-yard ninth hole. (Right) Brandon Liberty sank his ace on April 12, draining a hole-in-one on the 160-yard seventh hole with a pitching wedge.

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY!

CALL 816-539-2111

AGRICULTURE

See Consumer Oil & Supply for your One Stop Shop for Muck and Lacrosse boots and gloves. Consumer Oil & Supply, 614 Harris Ave., 359-2258

Buying standing walnut, oak & cottonwood timber. Cash or on shares. Call Mike at 816-248-3091

*WANTED* FARM GROUND TO LEASE! Competitive Rates AARON LANDES 660-3582682

Gravel, sand, top soil, mulch, river rock, boulders-Turney Mini Quarry 816248-2523.

Summers Crop Services, LLC in Lathrop. Fertilizer & lime applications. Call Curtis Summers for a free quote. 816564-7116, fwda

Kingsville Livestock

Auction. Located 45 miles SE of Kansas City, MO. On 58 Hwy. East of Modern. 816.597.3331. www.kingsvillelivestock.com fwda

Tina Livestock Market. 435 W 2nd St., Tina, MO 64682. Call 660-622-4214. www.tinalivestockmarket.com fwda

Osborn Livestock

Auction located 7 miles West of Cameron on Hwy 36, Osborn, MO. Sale every Wednesday at 10AM. 816-6752424 fwda

FOR RENT

Sunnyview Apartments is taking applications for single & double apartments. Sunnyview is a residential care facility for the elderly. We provide qualified staff to administer medications, provide three meals a day and offer minimal assistance with the activities of daily living. Now accepting Medicaid. For more information contact Cassandra Brewer at 660-359-5647.

PUBLISHER’S NO-

TICE: “All rental property advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which make it illegal to advertise any prefer-

ence, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” "We will not knowingly accept any advertising for rental property which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis."

FOR SALE

Garden Headquarters! Garden seeds and assorted garden tools. Best prices in town! Trenton Hardware, 901 Main in Trenton, 660359-3660.

Toro, 22 inch Selfpropelled lawnmower with bagger. One year old like new $300. 660-3221115

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell, to satisfy lien of the owner, at public sale by competitive bidding on Saturday, May 6th ending at 11:00 am. The auction will be held online at www.Storageauctions.com. Enter the 64454 address to find the auction items. The personal goods stored may include general household, hunting equipment, ladders, construction materials, clothes washer, clothes dryer, tools, snow blower, battery powered kids riding toys, trading cards and automotive items. The following units will be subject to auction: Ricky Roach unit 13-211 Purchases must be made with authorized credit card and paid at the time of sale with additional fees and refundable deposit. All goods are sold as is and must be removed within the allotted time after purchase.

E & M reserves the right to bid. Sale is subject to adjournment. Published in the Clinton County Leader on April 20th

and 27th, 2023.

HELTON INSURANCE SOLUTIONS

Williams Shopping Center, Trenton, MO. New To Medicare or Want To Compare

Pricing ... Call Brian McDaniel 816-2891935 or Leah Helton 660-359-3806 or 660-635-0537 "Our Quality Of Service Is What Makes Us Different"

Shelter Insurance –Cale Gondringer 1601 E 9th St., Suite D. 660-3594100. LIFE * HOME

* AUTO * FARM * BUSINESS. We’re your shield. We’re your shelter.ShelterInsurance.com Tdtf

Shelly's Pet Care, 660-684-6864, 103 S. Locust St., Jamesport, MO 64648. Professional, Personalized Grooming. Appointments available Monday - Saturday. 35 Years of Experience! Serving the Green Hills Area since 1996!

APRI Registered Keeshond puppies for sale. $800.00.

Shots and wormed. Call Joyce at 816465-1034

NOTICES

THE PEOPLE’S CO-OP 1736 East 9th St. 359-3313.

Premium Diesel, Gas, 10% Ethanol –CENEX. 83 years of service & experience. MR. TIRE –Mastercraft and Yokohama tires. Tdtf

Replacement Parts; Accessories; Chemicals; Tool & equipment. www.tlauto supply.com

NOTICE

Grundy County Nursing Home District will be accepting sealed bids for propane. Bids will be accepted through 1:00 o'clock p.m. May 12, 2023. Grundy County Nursing Home District reserves the right to reject any or all bids or waive irregularities that are in the best interest of the District. Contact Trish Smith, Administrator at Sunnyview Nursing Home, 1311 East 28th Street, Trenton, MO 64683.

NOTICE

Grundy County Nursing Home District will be accepting sealed bids for commercial trash service. Bids shall be for 5 days per week

pickup for 3 six yard containers each day. Bids will be accepted through 1:00 o'clock p.m. May 12, 2023.

Grundy County Nursing Home District reserves the right to reject any or all bids or waive irregularities that are in the best interest of the District. Contact Trish Smith, Administrator at Sunnyview Nursing Home, 1311 East 28th Street, Trenton, MO 64683.

EMPLOYMENT

Secretary position open - Need to know Excel and Word. 16 hours/week, Friday and Saturday, $12.25 to start, 3month and 1-year reviews. Will be bonded. Please submit resume to office@leisurelake.net or mail to 71660 NW 25th, Trenton, MO 64683. Call Leisure Lake office at 660789-2793 if questions.

JOIN THE CURNOW AUTOMOTIVE TEAM!! If you are looking to change your life for the better, stop in and fill out an application! If

you have experience in the Customer Service Industry or have Automotive Technical knowledge WE WANT YOU! We are currently looking for the following positions: Sales Professionals, Parts Manager, Parts Counterman, Detailers, Technicians. 800 E Baldwin St., Cameron, MO 64429 816-649-5291

North Central Missouri College is seeking an Assistant Softball Coach/Residence Life Coordinator Instructor. This is a full-time position with benefits included. Interested applicants should visit www.ncmissouri.edu/jobs for more information and how to apply or call 660-357-6203. NCMC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer

Sunnyview Nursing Home has job openings available for the following positions: RN, LPN, CNA, Dietary and Level I Medication Aide. Please fill out a job application at 1311 East 28th Street, Trenton, MO 64683. E.O.E

The City of Trenton, Missouri is accepting

The East Buchanan School District is accepting proposals for providing mowing service at our school located at 301 County Park Rd North, Easton, MO for the months of June, July, August, and September. Anticipated frequency of mowing is every 2 weeks, may be more or less depending on growth rate. The site consists of approximately 6-7 acres of mowing. The District is looking for "per time" quotes for mowing the site. For more information, please contact Dillon Pasley at pasley@ebs.k12.mo.us or at (816) 424-6466. To submit a quote for the cost per time to mow the Easton site, please submit in writing to newell@ebs.k12.mo.us or drop off at central office at 100 Smith St., Gower, MO. Submissions must be received by 4pm on May 17, 2023.

(4/27, 5/4/23)

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

In re: Bryon A. Cobb and Alexa M. Cobb TRUSTEE'S SALE: For default in the payment of debt and performance of obligation secured by Deed of Trust executed by Bryon A. Cobb and Alexa M. Cobb, husband and wife, dated March 15, 2007, recorded as reference #2007-1379, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds for the County of Clinton, Missouri, the Undersigned Successor Trustee will on Friday, May 5, 2023, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. (1:00 pm), at West front door of the Court House, in the City of Plattsburg, State of Missouri, sell at public vendue to the highest bidder for cash:

All of Lot Fifteen (15), TIMBER CREEK ESTATES PHASE 2, a subdivision in Clinton County, State of Missouri to satisfy said debt and costs.

DAVIS, KAHN & TRAVAGLINl INC Successor Trustee

St. Louis City, Missouri April 13, 20, 27, May 4, 2023 (4/13, 4/20, 4/27, 5/4/23)

applications for Communications Officer / 911 Dispatcher. Applications and job description are available on the City of Trenton web-

site, Trentonmo.com or may be picked up and dropped off at the Trenton Police Department, 610 Main St, Trenton, MO 64683. For more

information contact

Chief Rex Ross at (660) 359-2121. The City of Trenton is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Because The People Must Know

IN THE 43RD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT, CLINTON COUNTY, MISSOURI PROBATE DIVISION

Case Number: 23CN-PR00017

In the Estate of NIKI JOANN ZOLOTAS, Deceased.

Notice of Letters of Administration Granted (Independent Administration)

To All Persons Interested in the Estate of NIKI JOANN ZOLOTAS, Decedent:

On April 4, 2023, Crissa Ducharme was appointed the personal representative of the estate of Niki Joann Zolotas, decedent, by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Clinton County, Missouri. The personal representative 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 business address is respectively:

Crissa Ducharme, 128 E. Evergreen St., Cameron, MO 64429

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

Joseph Gagnon, 119 N Main, Plattsburg, MO 64477

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 the decedent's death, as provided in Section 473.444, RSMo, or any other applicable limitation periods.

Date of the decedent's death: August 10, 2022

Date of first publication: April 6, 2023

/s/ J .Schulz Clerk

Receipt of this notice by mail should not be construed by the recipient to indicate that the recipient necessarily has a beneficial interest in the estate. The nature and extent of any person's interest, if any, can be determined from the files and records of this estate in the Probate Division of the above referenced Circuit Court. (4/6, 4/13, 4/20, 4,27/23)

IN THE 43RD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT, CLINTON COUNTY, MISSOURI PROBATE DIVISION

Case Number: 23CN-PR00028

In the Estate of DUANE F WILEY, Deceased.

Notice of Letters Testamentary Granted (Independent Administration)

To All Persons Interested in the Estate of DUANE F WILEY, Decedent:

On April 24th 2023, the last will of the decedent having been admitted to probate, Sally L Wiley was appointed the personal representative(s) of the estate of Duane F Wiley, decedent, by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Clinton County, Missouri. The personal representative 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 business address is respectively:

SALLY L WILEY, 513 ANDREW CT, GOWER MO 64454

The personal representative’s attorney’s name, business address is respectively:

MEGAN ALGANO, 28 WESTWOODS DR, SUITE 110, LIBERTY, MO 64068

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 the 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: December 28, 2022

Date of first publication: April 27, 2023 /s/ J .Schulz Clerk

Receipt of this notice by mail should not be construed by the recipient to indicate that the recipient necessarily has a beneficial interest in the estate. The nature and extent of any person's interest, if any, can be determined from the files and records of this estate in the Probate Division of the above referenced Circuit Court.

(4/27,

Burnside TruckingDriver Needed. Hauling from elevator to elevator, CDL & Medical Card Required, Local Work, 816-294-3403, 816592-8384

North Central Missouri College is seeking a Personal Computer Specialist I. This is a full-time position with benefits included. Interested applicants should visit www.ncmissouri.edu/jobs for more information and how to apply or

call 660-357-6203. NCMC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer

Will pay $150 for someone to pick up 1 chair, 1 couch, & 1 bed to take to St. Joe dump. Will pay dump fee in advance, will need 1 strong helper, couch is heavy. 816424-1310 John Nelson

Be your own boss! Looking for a selfmotivated individual to manage an agri-

cultural chemical warehouse in Trenton. Ag background would be helpful.

Please contact 785741-4019

Local agriculture supply company seeks motivated individual to fill mid management position.

You will oversee production, inventory and order fulfillment for products supporting small farms. 660973-4040

Help WantedCounterperson, De-

NO HUNTING DIRECTORY

All hunting, fishing, swimming, and trespassing on land owned or controlled by the undersigned is hereby forbidden, except with the permission of the owner.

(Names added to this list for $25 per year. ADVANCE payment only.)

PLATTSBURG

All lands leased by Brandon Stevens 3-24

Farms 6-23

Farm 10-23 GOWER Emmett O. Auxier Farm 10-23

LATHROP David Adam 3-24

Additional Areas Available: TRIMBLE CALL

(816) 539-2111

To be added to the No Hunting Directory

livery Driver, Monday thru Friday, 8-5, every other Saturday, 7:30-12:00. Paid vacation and holidays. Must have clean driving record. Apply in person at Carquest Auto Parts, Trenton, MO.

SERVICES

H & S CONTRACTING Remodeling, room additions, garages & decks and pole barns * New homes & basements w/ICF forms * Wall replacement under homes, repair cracks & bowed walls * Leveling, waterproofing * Backhoe & Bobcat work * New water & sewer lines. Kale Hoerrmann -

Owner, 30 years experience – 660-9530724.

PAGE TREE SERV-

ICE Jeff Page 660359-3699-shop, 660-359-2202home. Serving the entire Green Hills Area! Specializing in tree trimming, stump grinding & complete removal. 75’ bucket truck, chipper & stump grinder. Licensed & insured. Free Estimates!

WANTED!! Used & Abused Cars & Trucks. Highest

prices paid! You Call - We Come Get It!

FRONTIER AUTO & TRUCK PARTS

(formerly Jim’s Auto Salvage) 145 Hwy. W., Trenton, 3593888.

*SEAMLESS GUT-

TERING* We are ready to replace your old gutters with new seamless aluminum gutters! MOORE’S CONSTRUCTION & WOODWORK, INC. 359-5477. 52 Years Experience.

BUY - SELLTRADE -BIG

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE

A default has accrued on a certain note secured by a deed of trust executed by, Diana Boyle dated 5/25/2018 and recorded on 5/31/2018 in Instrument Number 201801496, in the Recorder’s office for Clinton County, Missouri. The successor trustee will on May 2, 2023 between the hours of 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, more particularly at 12:30 PM, at the West Front Door of the Clinton County Courthouse, 207 North Main, Plattsburg, Missouri sell at public venue to the highest bidder for cash (certified funds only), the following real estate:

BEGINNING 25 FEET NORTH OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION TWENTY-ONE (21), TOWNSHIP FIFTY-SEVEN (57), RANGE THIRTY (30), CLINTON COUNTY, MISSOURI, RUNNING THENCE NORTH 278 FEET, WEST 108 FEET, SOUTH 278 FEET, EAST 108 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING

Commonly known as: 7996 NE Redwood Lane, Cameron, Missouri 64429 for the purpose of satisfying said indebtedness and the costs of executing this trust.

CSM Foreclosure Trustee Corp.

Successor Trustee

(800) 652-4080

4x 04/06/2023, 04/13/2023, 04/20/2023, 04/27/2023

CSM File 26-23-00234

NOTE: This office is a debt collector. (4/6, 4/13, 4/20, 4,27/23)

IN THE 43RD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT, CLINTON COUNTY, MISSOURI PROBATE DIVISION

Case Number: 23CN-PR00027

In the Estate of JOAN SILL SKIPTON, Deceased. Notice of Letters Testamentary Granted (Independent Administration)

To All Persons Interested in the Estate of JOAN SILL SKIPTON, Decedent:

On March 23, 2023, the last will of the decedent having been admitted to probate, Jill Gessell was appointed the personal representative(s) of the estate of Joan Sill Skipton, decedent, by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Clinton County, Missouri. The personal representative 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 business address is:

Jill Gessell, 5760 NW NN HIGHWAY, STEWARTSVILLE, MO 64490

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

Joe Gagnon, 119 N MAIN, PLATTSBURG, MO 64477

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 the 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: November 11, 2022

Date of first publication: April 6, 2023

NASTY'S GUNS & AMMO - Stop in and see us at our New Location - 1515 E. 9th Street, Trenton, MO. Nathan Rorebeck, 660-6350469, www.bignastys.com

JAMESPORT

LUMBER - Full Service Lumberyard. We also sell Trusses/metal/ rebar/concrete blocks. New Hardware Department • Gift Certificates and Delivery Available • Free Estimates. 32089 St. Hwy 6, Jamesport, 660-6846404

Call MIDWEST MECHANICAL & rely on comfort. 800425-0976 or 4856611, Brian S. Israel, owner. For your heating & cooling needs. All Tax Credits & Rebates available! Geostar Geothermal Heat Pumps. Over 25 years experience.

RED BARN MINI STORAGE, across from the new hospital on Iowa Blvd in Trenton. 5 Unit sizes available. Call Mike or Jane Cooksey 660-359-7683.

Willing Workers

LLP - Do you need your siding or roof replaced? Give Willing Workers a call today for a FREE estimate... 660-9735694, John Kramer, 17594 St. Hwy. 190, Jamesport, MO 64648

Mid-States Services is now offering: Fiber Optic installs in rural Trenton! MidStates will STILL WAIVE the $150 installation free for those who sign up NOW! Sign up TODAY by calling 660-359-2045 or at http://www.midstates.net. 4100 Oklahoma Ave., Trenton, MO 64683.

JAMESPORT BUILDERS, 660684-6931, 32137 State Hwy 6, Jamesport. POLE BARNS – GARAGES, Spray foam insulation.

www.lauhoffjewelry. com

Carquest Auto Parts

T & L Auto Supply, Inc., 1823 East 9th, Trenton, 359-2268, tlautosupply.com

Monday-Friday, 7-5, Saturday, 7:30-12.

New Discount Memorials crematory cemetery markers, headstone straightening and repair, grave opening and general cemetery construction work. RW Monument Company 520-273-9933

RUMMAGE SALE

Garage Sale, Friday, April 28, 7am-4pm, Saturday, April 29, 7am-2pm, 2004 Haddox Street, Trenton. Primitive and seasonal decor, wedding items, teacher items, HP printer, vacuum, furniture, kitchenware, jewelry, men's/women's name brand apparel and accessories.

WANTED

Looking to purchase a 24 ft. pull-type camper in good shape. Call 660-9731583.

IN SEARCH OF LAND TO LEASE:

HAY GROUND, 51,000 Acres, CATTLE/SHEEP GROUND, 40-1,000 Acres, Weed Spray Included. Please Contact: Brady Sims 816-547-4991.

FOR SALE

Toro, 22 inch Selfpropelled lawnmower with bagger. One year old like new $300. 660-3221115

APRI Registered Keeshond puppies for sale. $800.00. Shots and wormed. Call Joyce at 816465-1034

EMPLOYMENT

/s/ J .Schulz Clerk

Receipt of this notice by mail should not be construed by the recipient to indicate that the recipient necessarily has a beneficial interest in the estate. The nature and extent of any person's interest, if any, can be determined from the files and records of this estate in the Probate Division of the above referenced Circuit Court.

(4/6, 4/13, 4/20, 4,27/23)

LAUHOFF JEWELRY Downtown Chillicothe620 Washington St. Open Monday-Friday 9:00-5:30, Saturday 9:00-1:00. 660-646-3504

Email

Secretary position open - Need to know Excel and Word. 16 hours/week, Friday and Saturday, $12.25 to start, 3-month and 1-year reviews. Will be bonded. Please submit resume to office@leisurelake.net or mail to 71660 NW 25th, Trenton, MO 64683. Call Leisure Lake office at 660789-2793 if questions.

Tigers of Character for March

Stretch your legs at Weston Bend

Spring brings wildflowers and birds to Weston Bend State Park. Join park team members as they lead wildflower walks and bird hikes through the park’s different trails.

10 a.m.

Saturday, April

29 – Harpst Trail has some of the best examples of native wildflowers in the area. Meet at the overlook parking lot and walk this loop trail to learn more about these plants. Although less than a mile in length, the trail does

have two steep hills and consists of natural, uneven surfaces. There may be rocks, roots and mud along the way.

9:30 a.m. Sunday, May 7

– Meet at the North Ridge Trail parking lot for an ap-

proximately 2-mile walk.

9:30 a.m. Saturday, May 27

– Meet at the overlook parking lot for a 2-mile walk on the West Ridge Trail. For more information, call the park at 816-6405443.

Congratulations to the following students at Ellis Elementary School who were named Tigers of Character for the month of March. The Tiger Habit for the month was “Sharpening the Saw.” An extra congratulations goes to the Student of the Month, Alexander Burton. Front Row (left to right): Derick DeFreece, Kellan Harris, London Dulin, Noah Johnson, Xavian Johnson. Second Row: Coleson Hunt, Charlee Harkrider, Bridger Sowers, Rylee Busch, Emme Roach, Evalyn Reagan. Third Row: Braxton Davis, William Biston, Alexander Burton, Emalee Long, Jackson Reagan, Spencer Nichols, Isabella Wolfgerher. Not pictured: Lexi Burchit.