The Leader • 7-27-23

Rate increases, dangerous dogs draw a crowd

Residents voice frustration at Plattsburg council meeting

Nearly 70 people packed into the city hall meeting room Monday, July 24, for the monthly Plattsburg City Council meeting, as two issues – proposed utility rate increases and dogs running loose in town – spurred one of the largest turnouts in recent history.

After ample public input and discussion, the council ultimate-

EAST BUCHANAN Board talks levy issue, concrete work, gas

The East Buchanan Board of Education meeting held Monday, July 24, was short and to the point. No visitors were in attendance and the board breezed through the short agenda.

Amy Kelsey gave the board an update for CTA, stating she had attended a meeting focused on getting people involved in some manner. She stated that the curriculum camp was coming up in a couple of weeks and the staff is looking forward to the start of a new school year.

The consent agenda was approved by a vote of 4-0 with the minimum number of board members attending the meeting.

The board had a few items for discussion, with the first being the propane bids for the upcoming year. Agriland submitted the lowest per-unit bid of $1.145. Ferrel Gas submitted a bid of $1.30 and MFA’s bid was $1.45. The board approved the bid of Agriland.

Next, the board discussed the upcoming levy proposal, which will be on the August 8 election ballot. Dr. Newell informed members that an informational meeting would be held at the high school on Tuesday, July 25, at 6 p.m. to answer questions from members of the public. The district is proposing an increase of 65 cents per $100 assessed value to fund the construction of a

ly approved a series of utility rate increases Monday, including a 12-percent increase for natural gas and trash collection, and a 15-percent increase to water and sewer rates.

Those rates are more palatable than initially thought, as city leaders faced a sizable financial hurdle last month.

In late June, while presenting his budget proposal, City Adminis-

trator Chase Waggoner warned the council they had found the city’s natural gas fund was operating at a sizable deficit, as the rate formula was flawed and not charging enough for the service. Additionally, the price for natural gas in the last year has been up, and thanks to inflation, the operational costs of all city utilities has gone up. As a result, the natural gas fund was in the red by approximately

$278,000. This also came at a time when the cost of all municipal operations are on the rise (including the effects of inflation).

In order to achieve a balanced budget, Waggoner said the city would need to increase gas rates by more than 40 percent, and water and sewer rates by approximately 25 to 30 percent, unless some cost-saving measures could be

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BIG TIME DONATION

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With a growing assessed value, district could save hundreds of thousands on early debt payments.

Weekly Sheriff’s Dept. Report

See what activity the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department handled last week.

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A Dust Up in

With roadwork ongoing in Lathrop, some may find themselves remembering the dusty road failure from 2010.

The Plattsburg Masonic Lodge recently donated more than $29,000 to the Clinton County R-III School District. The lodge raised funds for the donation, then submitted them through the Masonic Home of Missouri, who matched each dollar with two more of their own. For more on the donation and last week’s school board meeting, turn to page A16. Photo: J.P. Cradic (center right) presents the donation check to Superintendent Dr. Sandy Steggall last week, joined by the lodge’s Curtis Cradic (far left) and Michael New (far right). For more, turn to page A16 of this edition.

City approves engineer on I-35 exit ramp expansion project

by brett adkison leader editor

Work is wrapping up on the major street project in Lathrop, which has seen more than half of the town’s roads receive improvements of one kind or another.

Lathrop City Administrator

Bob Burns said last week that the crews with McConnell and Associates were expected to be done with the majority of its work Friday, July 21. This week, the crews will be working on odds and ends. Burns said approximately 54 percent of the streets in Lathrop received some form of improvement through the project.

The project was made possible through a voter-approved bond from 2019 and was planned for earlier than 2023. However, most of the street project was delayed when, in 2021, the contractor for the city’s recent sewer improvements project, Blue Nile, walked off the job and shut its doors. Much of the sewer work required cutting into city streets, so the road improvements were moved back.

This round of street improvements is expected to cost between $810,000 and $820,000. Of that, approximately $671,000 is being funded through the street bond, while the remainder will be fund-

ed through American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) funds.

The City of Lathrop will have an additional option for its street improvements in the coming future. Voters approved a one-cent sales tax for street improvements this past spring. The city will start collecting the tax on October 1 and, in a full year, it’s expected to generate approximately $200,000 annually. Burns said the sales tax will allow the city to give city streets a full overlay more often, instead of the chip and seal option.

During its regular monthly

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Plattsburg City Council, Continued from Page A1

found.

Facing a July 1 deadline, the council approved the budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, but did so with the intention of researching and discussing the issues, and amending the budget in July.

That amendment, along with the rate increases, were approved Monday. Waggoner opened the meeting by explaining the details of the situation and the rate increase proposals. Mayor James Kennedy added that, in order to avoid a massive increase in the natural gas rate, the city is using $278,000 in reserves from the general fund to wipe out the existing natural gas deficit.

The new rates take effect on August 24.

Waggoner and the council were peppered with questions from the audience both during the public comments section of the meeting and the official public hearing held later in the meeting. Most of the questions centered on possible waste in the budget, details of the rate increases, and the importance of remembering that many citizens in Plattsburg are on some form of financial assistance, especially the older population.

Mayor Kennedy said during the public hearing that he would like to see more cuts to the budget in order to help offset the need for rate increases. He later added that the city is working on a plan to test gas meters to ensure that they are reading properly. Alderman Ken Tongue said the natural gas deficit was a large mistake that he and the council didn’t want to push it off on the citizens, and that’s why they opted to bring $278,000 in reserves from the general fund to address the deficit instead of passing a massive

rate increase. He added that the city could have, by law, retroactively charged natural gas customers to compensate for the mistake, but city leaders collectively agreed it wouldn’t be right to do so.

As far as the water, sewer and trash rate increases, Waggoner explained that the city’s operation costs – from vehicles to insurance to salaries – have been on the uptick, thanks in large part to inflation.

Also during the meeting, residents voiced their concern with the number of loose dogs roaming the town, which have, in some instances, maimed other dogs.

Before public comments, Plattsburg Police Chief Dave Couzens spoke to the council and those in attendance. He said the city has an issue with loose dogs and reminded the council that it isn’t their primary duty to be animal control officers, though they do their best when they can. He urged the public to keep their dogs contained or restrained to alleviate the problem. He added that the community’s dog shelter is operating at full capacity.

Marti Riddle spoke during public comments and voiced her concern with the safety of the city’s streets because of the dogs and a lack of respect she has seen from the city’s police force. She said her mother’s small dog was mauled by three loose dogs on the front porch and unfortunately succumbed to the injuries. That same day, when coming back to town to talk with her sister, Leigh Anne Tucci, at the sister’s hair salon, a cop car was parked outside and left running. She said many clients are elderly or have mobility problems. One woman was waiting to park there

but ultimately had to park somewhere else. When the police came to leave, and the woman asked where they had been for so long, the policeman allegedly said it was a public street and wasn’t designated handicap parking. Riddle said she wasn’t appreciative of the attitude. She said the woman had leg braces and walked with a crutch.

She said the police also showed a lack of empathy and respect to her mother as she tried reporting the incident, to the point her mother felt like the perpetrator and not the victim.

She also presented the council with research from other cities about how they handle loose dogs, such as permitting pets and ticketing offenders. Tucci also spoke to the council and said that she appreciates everything law enforcement does, but asked for some respect and consideration for her older clients.

Several residents spoke about the dog issue, including one who said her dog was attacked by five loose dogs on her own property, and the same five dogs are still running by each day. She said she’s afraid to be in her own yard at times, and said slyly she knows how the problem could be remedied.

“I’ve been informed I’d be in trouble,” she said of her proposed solution. “But I’ve been in trouble before.”

Lee Perkins spoke during public comments and touched on each issue. He also congratulated the crowd for showing up and participating to the extent that they did. He went on to question the city’s water tower project and money that could have been saved there, and suggested that the city could save money by finding and eliminating waste in its op-

erations. He also said both the dog problem and the disrespect shown by officers needs to be addressed.

Frank Lewis spoke and asked why the city pays Redgate Disposal for recycling collection when those items go to the dump, just like the collected trash. He said that he’s followed the truck to the dump just to confirm. He also said the city needs to address issues with the golf carts around town, as he’s seen instances where bad accidents were narrowly avoided. Though those who drive the golf carts around town are required to have a driver’s license, Lewis said many drivers are young kids.

Kelly King with the Plattsburg Senior Center spoke to the council about the city’s annual contribution of $5,000 to the center. She said the council had approved the contribution, that she had yet to receive it, and attempts to talk with Waggoner about the issue in recent months had been unsuccessful, as she had left unreturned messages with him.

Waggoner said he was unsure why but he had not received the messages. He

said he had the check ready but the city can’t make outright donations, so the two entities will need to have a service agreement in place before the contribution can be made.

Jason Smith spoke to the council and said he filed a report with the police in February about being hacked, but when he requested the document, the chief said it doesn’t exist. Smith suggested it was destroyed. Chief Couzens responded that the report was not dated in February, but rather in June.

Mayor Kennedy notified Smith that the council is limited in what they can tell him because he has threatened to sue the city. Smith said he has proof he was hacked, his medical information was tampered with, and he’s been disallowed from coaching his kid’s baseball team. Kennedy said that’s business with the park board, to which Smith said he knew, but park board representatives refuse to meet with him. He said he’s reported the issues with the state attorney general.

Also during the meeting, Joe McLiney spoke to the council about the ongoing organization of the new

water tower project. He said that the project is being financed through voter-approved bonds but the cost, like many other things, has been impacted by inflation. Waggoner said that the tower was originally expected to cost between $1 million and $1.3 million, but the recent cheapest bid came in at just under $2 million. McLiney suggested that the city could use a lease structure to pay for the remaining amount and own the tower outright once the cost is retired. The council went on that night to approve the bid of Maguire Iron, Inc., for construction of the new tower. The council also approved the establishment of a city code for disorderly conduct and reappointed Mike Shaver to the park board for three years.

* Properties that qualify for the municipal inflow and infiltration program receive $10 off their monthly minimum; CF = Cubic Feet

Five Years Ago

Thursday, July 26, 2018

• Rock legend Ozzy Osbourne, along with Jack and Kelly Osbourne, stop at Shatto Dairy in rural Clinton County as part of their show, Ozzy and Jack’s World Detour. Ozzy, himself, came away with a large box of Shatto ice cream that he ate on the road!

• Despite being just halfway through the year, the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department has had to spend nearly all of its $140,000 budget for housing prisoners.

•The Missouri Farm Bureau’s annual tractor cruise comes through Gower.

• Reserves at the Clinton County R-III School district stand at a whopping 32 percent.

• City of Lathrop to replace the storm siren in the center of town after it was struck by lightning.

10 Years Ago

Thursday, July 25, 2013

• Lathrop lawyer Joe Gagnon is appointed by Governor Jay Nixon to serve as the next Clinton County Prosecuting Attorney, replacing the outgoing Bill Burris, who resigned to work in the private sector.

• Plattsburg teacher Connie Collins retires after more than 30 years in education, creating countless memories and friendships.

• Lathrop student Brandon Maddick earns honors at the National FCCLA Conference for public speaking. Maddick won the Missouri state title in the event earlier that spring.

• Lathrop City Council makes South Street parking one-way, spurred by increase in attendance at LHS football games the previous fall.

• Both the Lathrop and Plattsburg cheerleading teams qualify for the state championship competition.

• Plattsburg eighth grader and standout track athlete Hanna Williams qualifies for the national Junior Olympics in Michigan.

20 Years Ago

Thursday, July 24, 2003

• Plattsburg City Council votes to build the new municipal pool on the donated Bodenhausen land near Ellis Elementary, choosing it over a possible location at Perkins Park.

• Community helps Dr. Hobbs celebrate 30 years of service in Plattsburg.

• Replacement of the old narrow bridge over Shoal Creek east of Lathrop on 116 Highway is coming along nicely; traffic is being routed on a new bypass constructed just north of the construction site.

30 Years Ago

Thursday, July 22, 1993

• Oakridge of Plattsburg breaks ground on an additional 20-bed residential care wing.

• Three small tornadoes cause minimal damage near Osborn.

• Clinton County R-III school board approves 12-percent salary increases for teachers, administrators, aides and other workers.

• Led by the stellar pitching of Shelly MacDonald and hard-hitting of Blaire Taylor, the 10 and under Blue Angels softball team coached by Rick Berry in Lathrop wins the ASA state championship in their division.

40 Years Ago

Thursday, July 28, 1983

• Plattsburg community leaders prepare for town’s sesquicentennial celebration.

• Plattsburgh, New York, passes proclamation praising Plattsburg, Missouri, for reaching its 150th anniversary.

• In light of recent lawsuits, Sheriff DeFreece reports that conditions at the county jail (built in 1976) are fine, as prisoners have air conditioning and heat, receive visitors twice weekly, shower three times weekly, have a commode and lavatory available at all times, laundry is done three times a week, and they receive three square meals a day. The jail population at the time is seven inmates.

• At Howard’s Market, a 25-pound bag of Purina Dog Chow is $6; a beef brisket is $1.19 a pound; two pounds of Velveeta Cheese is $2.49.

Clinton County Sheriff’s Report

Friday, July 14

12:41 a.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on 116 Highway in Clinton County.

1:26 a.m.: Medical call on E. 116 Highway in Plattsburg.

1:41 a.m.: Medical call on W. Clay Avenue in Plattsburg.

8 a.m.: Stealing (not in progress) on El Lago in Lathrop.

8:12 a.m.: Controlled fire on Shivel Avenue in Gower.

1:19 p.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on I-35 in Clinton County.

2:31 p.m.: Medical call on Hallar Avenue in Gower.

3:22 p.m.: Motorist assists on E. 116 Highway in Lathrop.

4 p.m.: Medical call on NW Plotsky in Plattsburg.

6:53 p.m.: Motorist assists on I-35 in Clinton County.

8:16 p.m.: Controlled fire on SE Cannonball in Holt.

9:19 p.m.: Noise complaint on S. Third Street in Gower.

Saturday, July 15

1:22 a.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on 116 Highway in Clinton County.

4:11 a.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on I-35 in Clinton County.

8:43 a.m.: Animal call on 69 Highway in Clinton County.

10:46 a.m.: Vehicle crash on 326th Street in Cameron.

10:58 a.m.: Medical call on SE Downing in Holt.

12:06 p.m.: Vehicle crash on 69 Highway in Clinton County.

1:27 p.m.: vehicle crash on W. Clay Avenue in Plattsburg.

3:13 p.m.: Medical call on N. Y Highway in Plattsburg.

3:52 p.m.: Vehicle fire on I-35 in Clinton County.

4:23 p.m.: Harassment (not in progress) on NW 268th Street in Gower.

5:16 p.m.: Medical call on SW County Line Rd. in Trimble.

6:53 p.m.: Medical call on W. Locust in Plattsburg.

7:06 p.m.: Domestic in progress on 69 Highway in Cameron.

Sunday, July 16

8:24 a.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on I-35 in Clinton County.

9:21 a.m.: Medical call on Depot in Plattsburg.

9:59 p.m.: Medical call on Center Street in Lathrop.

1:33 p.m.: Medical call on Cape Cod in Trimble.

4:47 p.m.: Medical call on Harrington in Gower.

7:07 p.m.: Assault (not in progress) on 116 Highway in Plattsburg.

Monday, July 17

3:49 a.m.: Medical call on NE 280th Street in Lathrop.

10:28 a.m.: Medical call on 116 Highway in Plattsburg.

11:13 a.m.: Animal call on NW Platte Road in Stewartsville.

3:11 p.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on I-35 in Clinton County.

3:20 p.m.: Vehicle crash on 116 Highway in Clinton County.

3:45 p.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on 116 Highway in Clinton County.

3:54 p.m.: Medical call on W. Clay in Clinton County.

7:46 p.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on N. Y Highway in Plattsburg.

8:53 p.m.: Suicidal subject on S. Ridge in Turney.

8:58 p.m.: Medical call on S. Ridge in Turney.

11:27 p.m.: Animal bite on S. Oak Street in Plattsburg.

11:32 p.m.: Medical call on W. 116 Highway in Plattsburg.

Tuesday, July 18

9:37 a.m.: Animal call on Smith Street in Clinton County.

1:12 p.m.: Medical call on Dykes Lane in Holt.

5:02 p.m.: Medical call on E. Clay Avenue in Plattsburg.

8:57 p.m.: Medical call on N. Hines Avenue in Edgerton.

10:07 p.m.: Medical call on SE W Highway in Lathrop.

11:11 p.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on I-35 in Clinton County.

11:17 p.m.: Medical call on SE Freeway Farms Drive in Holt.

Wednesday, July 19

5:56 a.m.: Medical call on SW Karen in Trimble.

7:37 a.m.: Medical call on SW

116 Highway in Lathrop.

8:40 a.m.: Medical call on SE

251st Street in Lathrop.

9:13 a.m.: Careless/imprudent driver on I-35 in Clinton Co.

10:22 a.m.: Medical call on S. 169 Highway in Gower.

10:44 p.m.: Controlled fire on NW Schwarz in Gower.

12:20 p.m.: Animal call on 169 Highway in Gower.

2 p.m.: Medical call on Matthews in Gower.

2:27 p.m.: Medical call on N. Cedar in Plattsburg.

3:11 p.m.: Medical call on SE Dykes in Holt.

4:33 p.m.: Shoplifter on 169 Highway in Gower.

7:57 p.m.: Domestic in progress on S. Main in Clinton County.

8:11 p.m.: Noise complaint on Seventh Street in Plattsburg.

8:19 p.m.: Animal call on NW Willow Creek in Stewartsville.

9:03 p.m.: Natural cover fire on Center Street in Lathrop

9:08 p.m.: Debris in the roadway on W. Clay in Plattsburg.

10:19 p.m.: Controlled fire on Locust Street in Lathrop.

Thursday, July 20

9:03 a.m.: Medical call on Park

Street in Lathrop.

9:22 a.m.: Animal call on 240th Street in Clinton County.

9:58 a.m.: Disturbance in progress on East St. in Lathrop.

10:13 a.m.: Fire alarm on E. Clay Avenue in Plattsburg.

11:21 a.m.: Disturbance in progress on 116 Highway in Plattsburg.

1:45 p.m.: Disturbance in progress on 116 Highway in Plattsburg.

1:51 p.m.: Medical call on 116 Highway in Plattsburg.

3:48 p.m.: Stealing (not in progress) on N. 169 Highway in Trimble.

5:24 p.m.: Vehicle crash (injury) on 169 Highway in Gower.

5:53 p.m.: Harassment (not in progress) on N. Main in Plattsburg.

6:01 p.m.: Stealing (not in progress) on NE 272nd Street in Lathrop.

7:43 p.m.: Fire on N. Main in Plattsburg.

9:58 p.m.: Harassment (not in progress) on N. Main Street in Plattsburg.

A dust up in Lathrop

by brett adkison leader editor

As construction crews in Lathrop continue to work on road improvements throughout town, some drivers are likely to experience flashbacks to the Great Dust Disaster of 2010.

Life was simple back then. School was in session five days a week. Instagram wasn’t invented yet. Chile had 33 miners stuck below ground and Plattsburg played football with 11 players on the field. We were climbing out of a recession and nobody had heard of COVID.

Lady Antebellum’s “Need You Now” ruled the radio.

It was a dire time for the Former Mule Capital of the World. Wind-swept dust darkened out the skies and blanketed homes. It was an ecological disaster on par with today’s Canadian wildfires. Battered by street conditions, the burned-out husks of ruined cars littered the shoulders of Center Street.

Okay, maybe that’s pushing it. But it sure was annoying.

See, in the summer of 2009, the City of Lathrop retained a contractor for major street improvements. Most of the roads received a chip-and-seal overlay (that’s the rock-and-oil combination). But something was amiss; the roadways stayed dusty for longer than usual. That winter was brutal, and when Spring 2010 rolled around, the surface had failed in many areas, creating even more dust.

The streets had been reduced to gravel. As it turns out, the project had used coated limestone for its chips instead of the superior Haydite, which had run out of supply the previous summer.

The Lathrop City Council sought the performance bond for the project, negotiated with the contractors, and that summer crews swept the roads clean and reapplied a suitable overlay.

I can still see the late James T. Crenshaw, the diminutive Democrat, swimming in his 10-gallon hat, “supervising” the work on Oak Street, thumbs tucked tightly into his suspenders with a cloud of dust whirling about. I’m sure the coffee-drinkers at the Hungry Mule gave him a solid chewing over the roads that year. It didn’t help matters that the plans (crafted before he was voted in) called for all existing gravel roads in town to be paved, which included a stretch of Short Street leading to his home.

One mistake and one coincidence was all it took – his gravel road was paved while everyone else’s paved roads were graveled. What a time to be the mayor. Oddly enough, disputes over the county’s gravel roads clouded his tenure as a Clinton County Commissioner, too.

Jim was as polarizing as they came, a rural Democrat in the era of the Tea Party. I always enjoyed the man, despite any faults he may have had. He was the one who made the overtures when I came to The Leader in 2008, and 15 years later it’s become my home. For that, I’m forever grateful.

God rest him, and here’s hoping he now resides where the roads are paved in gold (and don’t need any chip and seal).

WHAT’S THE SHAPE OF THE WORLD

In tough times, turn to Weenie Soup

You know you’re growin’ older when... There’s nothing left to learn the hard way.

* * * *

These days, there are plenty of theories about how to keep that tight budget in line with the current high inflation on nearly everything we touch. Prices are skyrocketing higher and more often than a North Korean missile test.

The most common theories are to cut costs at the grocery store, save money on transportation, plan for cheaper vacations, pay down credit card debt, earn money on your savings.

My favorite is that you should diversify your investment portfolio. What if you don’t have an investment portfolio?

At an early age, I’m thinking when I was about eight or nine years old, I learned about a magic, never-fail weapon against inflation. It’s called the “Weenie Soup Diet.” Now, the magic of the Weenie Soup Diet is it does two very important things – it cuts the old food budget and slims down the old waistline.

No Jack LaLanne methods needed here with this miracle program.

I learned at an early age there is more than book learning when it comes to education. The school of street smarts, hard work and good ol’ blue collar education can provide you with the basics of life. And that is precisely what I learned from Jack Mick as he went about his duties as a mechanic for the Tinnen Bus Company right here in Plattsburg, USA.

My father Skip was a very successful school bus contractor starting from 1963 until 1969. He ran his business with a short commute, walking about 50 yards right out our backdoor to his office in the bus barn. The two bays provided room for the repair work and the six acres provided room for the 80 school buses that were part of the 10-school districts that used his contract services. They were parked over the summer months for cleaning and needed repairs.

Jack was small in stature, standing about 5’6”, and slim, weighing only 140 pounds. His black hair was in constant turmoil because of working underneath the buses. His

black rimmed, thick glasses were always slipping down his nose as sweat dropped off his face, due to no air conditioning in the bus repair bays.

My brothers Dave and Greg joined me as we traveled to the bus barn. Our goals were very simple – see how things were going, get a soda pop out of the Coke machine, and listen to the banter of the mechanics. We also took the time to listen to some of the wisdom shared by Jack when he wasn’t too busy working.

At that age, we never thought about money, or lack of it. We were blessed with a great home, a dad who could provide, and a loving mother. Can’t get much better than the life we enjoyed.

I remember one day Jack was talking about how he never had enough money at the end of the week.

He said, “Well, boys, times

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

are tough, and I won’t have enough money to do much. I guess this weekend my family and I will have to eat Weenie Soup.

Of course, I had never heard of Weenie Soup, so I asked him, ‘How do you make Weenie Soup?”

“Well, you go the grocery store and buy a package of hotdog weenies, and put them in a big pot,” he said with a grin. “Then you fill up the pot with water and bring the pot to a boil. Then take the pot off the stove and pour the Weenie Soup in your bowl. And that’s your supper.”

So, I asked him, “What about the weenies?”

He let out a belly laugh.

“If we’re lucky enough with the budget, we then get to eat the weenies!”

Jack Mick taught me a lesson about fiances that I continue to remember to this day. When times are tight in our household and the finances aren’t looking too good, I let it be known, it’s Weenie Soup time.

Jack ended up leaving our employment when Skip got out of the school bus business and bought The Plattsburg Leader

Letter: Transgender Craze and Maze

This story must be told. A movement is upsetting all of our society. This transgender craze has exploded beyond rationality and morality. The adolescent and young sector are affected. Girls are exceptionally damaged.

Transgender is tossed around as if it’s normal. While a normal gender is labeled “cisgender.” We need to understand the parameters of the two genders.

In 1905, Nettie Stevens and Edmund Wilson established the sexual chromosomes of XY for males and XX for females.

There are cases (rare) where chromosome “entanglement” causes gender dysphoria. Data shows one percent for this “stigma” and 70 percent should outgrow this problem. But today the transgender communi-

ty has gone wild. Make no mistake, those who have the dysphoria are in need of support and recognition. Today the identity keeps growing – LGBTQIA+ alphabet. And the maze includes: abro, allo, asexual, cisgender, transgender, bisexual, intersex, non-binary and other orientations.

What causes these sex transitions? The small percent of kids will show dysphoria with mannerisms of the opposite sex. Puberty and adolescent problems also trigger an onset. The largest category is influenced by an iPhone, the internet with its TikTok, Instagram, Tumblr, and YouTube. Add peer pressure, and counselors, bad therapists and doctors.

Teenagers are social creatures and succumb to pressures

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

Publisher

Emeritus Steve Tinnen

and fads. Porn also enters the picture.

Girls are at 70 percent of all who transition. In 2016, transitioners were at 46 percent, one year later, 72 percent. Interconnected with the transgenders are depression, suicide, cutting, anorexia, anxiety and others.

Girls and guys become estranged from parents and family. To start, they’re given puberty blockers and hormones and, finally, testosterone. Recommended are chest blockers and breast removal. It’s traumatizing. Most become infertile.

Why is the gay community and others celebrating a physical and emotional defect? It’s the rainbow flag, Pride month, parades with nudity, drag queens and activists. Many

other entities are backing this cultural subversion. It all ties in with diversity and inclusion repertoire.

God is watching! He sees how society has disgraced His creation and chose bad choices. News from above: The guardian angel for Biden was upset and went to headquarters and said: “I’ve given him three strikes so many times I’ve lost count. I’m walking.” Suddenly, a firm and benevolent voice says, “No, not now, I’ve lost all the angels from the Democrats and rhino Republicans. There’s none left. Please stay.” Biden’s angel answers, “Well, okay, I’ll try one more time.”

LeRoy Schwery Lathrop, Mo.

D’Anna Honeycutt

Plattsburg Senior Center Menu

Thursday, July 27

Sausage veggie bake, augratin, corn, pears, wheat bread.

Friday, July 28

Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, green beans, fruit cocktail, whole grain bread.

Monday, July 31

Fish filet, creamed corn, stewed tomatoes, applesauce, wheat bread.

Tuesday, August 1

Glazed ham, broccoli, cole-

Steve Tinnen,

Continued from Page A4

slaw, banana pudding, cornbread.

Wednesday, August 2 Spaghetti with meat sauce, lettuce salad, green beans, chilled peaches, garlic bread.

Thursday, August 3 Chicken pot pie (vegetables in the pie), beets, mandarin oranges, roll.

Friday, August 4 Hamburgers on a bun, tater tots, carrots, relishes, pears.

Bodenhausen Retiring

Help us celebrate and honor Maurine Bodenhausen with a card shower as she retires after more than 20 years of faithful years of service at the Plattsburg Food Pantry.

Please send cards to Maurine in c/o Plattsburg

Food Pantry, PO Box 53, Plattsburg, Mo., 64477. If you would like to make a donation in her honor, checks may be included in the card and made out to either the Plattsburg Food Pantry or the Gathering Place.

CCHS to host program

The Clinton County Historical Society’s next meeting is a fun one! The CCHS will have a program about the “Hello Girls” from World War I by historian and storyteller Stephen Sullins of Independence, Mo. Find out how

these women became vital to the United States war effort. You might be surprised! This free program is for the public and will begin at 6 p.m. at the museum on Thursday, July 27.

on Jan. 1, 1969. He lived in Holt for most of his life, later moving to Trimble. He passed away on January 10, 2004, at the age of 77.

* * * *

Trivia question: Which US city is the sunniest major city and sees more than 320 sunny days each year?

A. Yuma; B. Miami; C. San Francisco; D. Austin (answer is close by).

* * * *

Some smiles courtesy of the Happy Hawaiian, Jim Nicholson, Honolulu, Hawaii...

Messages on casual wear for seniors:

• If you’re happy and you know it, it’s your meds.

• Sorry I’m late, I didn’t want to come.

• A little gray hair is a small price to pay for all this wisdom.

• The best thing about

the good ol’ days is that I wasn’t good, and I wasn’t old.

• Everyone was thinking it, I just said it.

• Some days the supply of curse words is insufficient to meet my demands. (Trivia answer: Yuma, Arizona. Officially the sunniest city in the world, Yuma receives over 4,000 sunlight hours per year, along with extremely low humidity. During the summer months, it averages more than 13 hours of sunlight per day, mainly due to its location in the Sonoran Desert).

* * * *

Food for thought: “It’s never paid to bet against America. We come through things, but it’s not always a smooth ride.” - Warren Edward Buffett

Talk to you next week! Steve Tinnen stevetinnen@yahoo.com

Cover crops are a hot topic among local landowners. Species planted in off-season can increase soil health, reduce erosion and even increase fertility levels for crops like corn and soybeans. Clinton County’s University of Missouri Extension Council last week held a free educational program about cover crops: what and when to plant and what benefits to expect. Among the speakers was Dean Stransky, NRCS Resource Conservationist, who discussed current government financial assistance programs. Other speakers were MU Extension Field Specialist in Agronomy Wayne Flanary and Ron Whiteley of Missouri Southern Seed.

1614 W. CONCORD

August 5 8 a.m. to

Thank You

Commander Ron Hardwick, on behalf of the Gower American Legion Members, would like to thank the community for their generous support of our monthly breakfast.

Please note - There will be NO breakfast on the last Saturday of July and August.

East Buchanan School Board, Continued from Page A1

new middle school in Gower, on land the district owns on DD Highway west of the high school and elementary.

The board also discussed the construction management process, with discussion regarding whether to use a construction management approach or go out for hard bids if the levy passes. The difference in the two approaches is that with a construction management approach, the district would

contract with a company to oversee the entire project, which would add a fee to the total cost of the project. With a hard bid, the board is obligated to accept the lowest bid submitted unless the district can show good cause to decide otherwise.

Tuition prices for the upcoming 2023-2024 school year were discussed next, with the board going with the amount local taxpayers pay, which is $6,322.22. The

board accepted this amount by a vote of 4-0.

The board also voted to rescind the proposal for Clark Concrete to do the work on the football stadium wall. According to Dr. Newell, he had tried several times to get the company to give him a start and completion date prior to the start of the football season. This has not happened and there was no signed contract agreement for the job. The board

voted to rescind the offer to Clark 4-0 and move forward with other options. They still hope to get the work done prior to the start of the football season.

As they do each year, the district lawyers made recommendations for the board to rescind several board policies and accept new wording for them. Both of these were also approved 4-0.

The board also ap-

proved the newly proposed student-parent handbook and employee manual by the same 4-0 vote.

Dr. Newell provided the board with his update, which included the interior door at the elementary building being installed. They are just waiting on door locks. The exterior doors will be installed in a couple of weeks.

He also told the board that the bleacher extension should be completed by the

start of the football season. His update on the electronic sign east of the elementary building that was damaged will be replaced by a somewhat smaller sign with updated technology and a higher resolution. The cost of this new signage will be in excess of $40,000 but insurance will cover all but the deductible of $1,000.

Plattsburg Park Board hears proposal on pickleball courts

There was more to consider than just the 2023-2024 budget for the Plattsburg Park Board during its meeting on July 6. Updates from the city about Perkins Park, Bodie’s Pool, the trail grant application, and potential camping spaces at Perkins Park were among the 10 items listed on the agenda. Plus, the board heard a presentation about transforming the tennis courts at Perkins Park into pickleball courts.

Frank Lewis and Danny Gipson suggested that the park board consider revamping the current tennis courts at Perkins Park to accommodate pickleball courts.

Mr. Lewis pointed out that Perkins Park has two tennis courts, but in their current condition, they are hazardous to play on and potentially pose a liability to the city.

He went on to describe the situation with pickleball courts in the neighboring town of Kearney.

“They have recently completed 12 pickleball courts with LED lighting. They have city leagues from beginner to expert levels that are filled,” he said. “According to the Sports and Industry Association, the number of people playing pickleball grew by 159 percent over three years to 8.9 million in 2022.”

Sketches of a potential layout of the courts, with the proposal of six courts, were presented. After the meeting, an estimate was received from SealMaster KC, which indicated that the overlay to make pickleball courts would come with an estimated cost of $12,000.

Mr. Lewis indicated that he would be meeting with an-

other person who has experience in overlaying pickleball courts over asphalt later.

Danny Gipson said he had observed players on the courts in Kearney and found them busy, if not full, most of the time. He also mentioned that the restrooms had electronic door openers and security cameras at their facility.

The board took no action but agreed with the potential transition of the tennis courts to pickleball courts.

In the city staff report, Public Works Director Justin Hartzell updated the board on several projects at Perkins Park and Ted Moore Park.

The city was made aware by Josh Walker that the Plattsburg Rotary would be donating $5,000 for trail upgrades and repairs. So far, 200 tons of rock have been applied to the trails with more work planned. The pump for the water slide at Bodie’s Pool had been installed and was operational, repairs are planned for the gazebo and a replacement slide piece for Ted Moore Park would be installed. The wooden fort built by the late Jim Hartzell in honor of the late Linda Keisling over 20 years ago was removed since it could not be repaired. The special mulch used for the playground equipment has been spread.

Administrator Chase Waggoner provided updates: Management at Bodie’s Pool has been a challenge this year. Before the season began, two of the three assistant managers left. As a result, Branden Williams was hired to manage the pool along with Sydney Stephens. Mr. Williams worked for a short time before leaving without the proper notice. As a result, Ms. Stephens has been assisted by public works,

other lifeguard staff, and former pool manager Catherine Boulware.

Regarding the budget, the capital improvement funds have enough money ($166,000) set aside to pay for the projected repairs needed at the pool. This is provided the city’s financial situation doesn’t affect it.

The potential repairs at Bodie’s Pool are to be reviewed in the fall, including inspection of the slide, which will add additional costs.

Camping spaces at Perkins Park were suggested as a possibility but did not receive positive feedback from the board. Between costs and a potential lack of manpower to administer the camping area, the proposal didn’t seem viable currently.

The fiscal budgets were presented by City Administrator Chase Waggoner.

“I have moved Justin Hartzell’s salary out of parks, and the parks budget only shows Jackson Lewis as an employee,” he said. “This change does affect the city budget, which has not yet been approved.”

Other small changes were the assignment of a vehicle to the parks department for $900 for a pickup and $1,100 for equipment repairs.

“Expenses for the pool are getting greater and greater, (growing) from $35,000 to $55,000 for expenses,” Waggoner said. “On the recreation fund, we need to address equipment purchases in the baseball program, which is something we can do before next year’s summer baseball season.”

The final payment for the pool of $71,700 will be made soon. That will help with funding the needed repairs at Bodie’s Pool.

Lathrop City Council, Continued from Page A1

meeting Tuesday, July 19, the Lathrop City Council approved Veenstra and Kim as the engineers for a proposed road project at 116 Highway and Interstate 35. The Missouri Department of Transportation has recommended that the city widen the interstate off-ramps to handle additional traffic, with the pos-

sibility of adding lights, too.

There’s no projected cost on the work as of yet.

The city is working with the Mo-Kan Regional Council on possible grant funding, including through the Economic Development Association (EDA) and MoDOT funding.

The council also ap-

“I’ve made small tweaks here and there, but there is nothing major,” he said. “There is still a final budget approval from the city council that could affect the parks budget. I just don’t see that but want to let you know.”

Of note, in the capital improvement budget, there was $7,500 in discretionary funding available, with $12,500 assigned for potential architectural work on the Rakestraw property for a total of $20,000. Also of note was a cash crop payment of $3,000 received from David Jones, who farmed the recently-purchased Rakestraw property.

Administrator Waggoner said that the road access to the water tower project on

Rakestraw property is still under consideration and they are working on a solution.

After the budget discussion was concluded, Kathy Soldanels made a motion to approve it. K.C. Lewis seconded the motions and it was approved by unanimous consent. Both Lewis and Soldanels joined with Mike Shaver and Steve Tinnen to vote in favor (Beau Brown was absent).

A dedicated property tax for pool operations was suggested for discussion. The board said the timing was not right.

Administrator Waggoner said the Department of Natural Resources contacted him with an offer to amend the current grant application.

The proposed change would include motorized ATVs as part of the trail grant. They said there was $8 million in the fund and there were just $2 million in applications for the motorized trail grant portion. Therefore, the change would almost guarantee approval.

Steve Tinnen said he thought the current trail grant application with a 60-40 match was in a strong position.

“The switch to ATV is open because no others want ATV trails,” he said. The consensus of the board was that the change to a motorized trail was a nonstarter.

proved its year-end financial statement for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. Burns said that the city ended the fiscal year well and stayed in the black for its general revenue fund, while also carrying ample reserves for its other funds, such as the streets and the sewers.

Local options for hazardous waste disposal

The Region D Recycling and Waste Management District supports two facilities for household hazardous waste.

One is the Buchanan County Household Hazardous Waste Collection and Storage Facility, located at 51 S.E. Houseman St. (old MoDOT building) in Faucett, Mo. The facility is open the first and third Saturdays now through October 21. Its hours are 8 a.m. to noon.

The second facility is the Cameron Household Hazardous Waste Collection and Storage Facility. The facility will be open from 8 a.m. to noon on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. The facility will operate through October, with the last collection day being October 28. The facility is located at 521 S. Elm Street in Cameron.

No items are to be deposited early. Region D Recycling and Waste Man-

agement District partners with Buchanan County and the City of Cameron for the support of the facility with district solid waste management funds.

Household hazard waste items accepted for recycling include: (no containers over 5 gallons), batteries, varnishes, cleaners, pesticides, garden sprays, brake fluid, antifreeze and fluorescent bulbs.Outdated agricultural chemicals will also be accepted for proper disposal (no containers over 5 gallons). Not accepted: latex paint, ammunition, or explosives. See below methods for proper disposal of latex paint. Also, please note, Motor Oil will not be accepted for recycling. Please recycle your used motor oil at WalMart Automotive Centers and O’Reilly’s Auto Parts Stores. For additional motor oil recycling centers, call the district office at (816) 3935250. Please consider safe

alternatives for non-hazard paint and batteries as listed below.

Latex paint can safely be dried at home by mixing one part paint to one part kitty litter. Mix in the can until oatmeal consistency. Allow the paint and cat litter to sit for one hour before putting in with your regular household trash. Leave the lid off. If you have more than a half a can, line a cardboard box with newspaper, add kitty litter and then slowly add paint, then add more kitty litter, carefully stir and let dry, then deposit with your household trash. Also, check your local paint, hardware stores as they may sell at a very reasonable cost (approximately $2 per gallon) waste paint additives for drying waste paint for disposal.

Alkaline batteries are composed primarily of common metals – steel, zinc, and manganese and do not pose

a health or environmental risk during normal use or disposal. Alkaline battery manufacturers have eliminated mercury in the manufacture of alkaline batteries, making them safe for disposal in household trash. It is important to not dispose of alkaline batteries in a group, as grouping used batteries together can bring these live batteries into contact with one another, creating a safety risk. The safest thing to do is to discard the used batteries in the trash when they are taken out of a device to put in new batteries. Taping the ends of batteries when disposing in groups will eliminate any risk.

Participating in the free proper disposal will insure safety to our families and protect our ground water. The collection is open to residents of Andrew, Buchanan, Clinton and DeKalb Counties. No business waste will be accepted.

Northwest Missouri MoDOT Roadwork this week

St. Joseph, Mo. – The following is a list of general highway maintenance and construction work the Missouri Department of Transportation has planned in the Northwest Missouri region for the week of July 24-30.

All road closures and planned roadwork may be viewed on the Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/.

Inclement weather may cause schedule changes in some of the planned work. There also may be moving operations throughout the region, in addition to the work mentioned below. MoDOT asks drivers to work with us by buckling up, putting your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones.

Andrew County

Interstate 29 – Pavement improvement and guardrail/ cable project from south of Business Route 71 to just south of Route O (Buchanan County) through late October 2023. Work will be completed overnight Sunday through Friday, 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. An 11.6-foot width restriction is in place. (Contractor: Herzog Contracting Corp.)

Route K – RAMP CLOSED for concrete replacement at southbound I-229, July 24-25, 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. around-the-clock.

I-229 – RAMP CLOSED for concrete replacement from northbound I-229 to southbound I-29, July 24-25, 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. aroundthe-clock.

U.S. Route 169 – Drainage work at Woodbine Road, July 24

Atchison County

U.S. Route 136 – Resurfacing project from G Avenue to the Missouri River through

November 2023. A 12-foot width restriction and 14foot height restriction are in place. (Contractor: Phillips Hardy, Inc.)

Buchanan County

I-29 – Pavement improvement and guardrail/cable project from south of Business Route 71 (Andrew County) to just south of Route O through late October 2023. Work will be completed overnight Sunday through Friday, 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. An 11-foot width restriction will be in place.

(Contractor: Herzog Contracting Corp.)

Route Y – CLOSED for a bridge replacement project at both the south and north Bee Creek bridges through December. A signed detour is in place. (Contractor: Phillips Hardy, Inc.) More info: https://www.modot.org/buchanan-county-route-y-beecreek-bridge-replacements

I-229 – CLOSED southbound for a bridge rehabilitation project from Sixth and Atchison streets to Lake Boulevard through December. A signed detour is in place. (Contractor: Comanche Construction, Inc.) More info: https://www. modot.org/buchanan-county-i-229-bridge-rehabilitation-project-6th-atchison-streets

Route 116 – Permit/utility work from Route M to Fenton Road, July 5-31

I-229 – Concrete replacement northbound from I-29 to 22nd Street, July 25-27

Route 752 (Hyde Park Ave) – Permit/sidewalk work eastbound from 3rd Street to 7th Street, July 24-Sept.

15. Road will be narrowed to one lane around-the-clock.

Caldwell County

Route 13 – CLOSED from Mill Creek Drive to Route

P for the first stage of a resurfacing project from the south city limits of Hamilton to just north of Route HH in Kingston through December 2023. The project will be broken up into three stages with a signed detour in place. (Contractor: Phillips Hardy, Inc.) https://www.modot. org/13-pavement-resurfacing-caldwell-and-daviess

Route 13 – CLOSED for a bridge replacement project at the Route 13 bridge over U.S. Route 36 in Hamilton through early August. (Contractor: Capitol Paving and Construction LLC.) https:// www.modot.org/13-pavement-resurfacing-caldwell-and-daviess

Carroll County

U.S. Route 24 – Bridge rehabilitation projects:

S. Route 24 over BNSF Railroad just east of the U.S. Route 65 interchange through August.

S. Route 24 over Little Wakenda Creek east of Carrollton through August. Chariton County

Route 129 – Pavement repair from Route T to Route 24, July 24-28

Route D – CLOSED for a bridge replacement project at the East Fork of Bee Branch

Bridge through mid-September. (Contractor: Lehman Construction and Wilson & Company)*2

Route D – CLOSED for a bridge replacement project at the Clarks Creek Bridge through mid-October. (Contractor: Lehman Construction and Wilson & Company)*2

Route 139 – CLOSED for a culvert replacement from July 25, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Route 139 – CLOSED for a culvert replacement from Route 130 (Linn County) to Route TT, July 25, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Clinton County

Route H – Pothole patching from Route 33 to Route A, July 24

Route NN – Pothole patching from Route VV to Route 33, July 25-26

Gentry County

Route YY – CLOSED until further notice at the Bear Creek Bridge due to deterioration. This bridge is included in a replacement project scheduled to be a part of the September 2023 letting for contractor bids. https://www.modot.org/ atchison-and-gentry-counties-bridge-replacements

U.S. Route 136 – Resurfacing project from U.S. Route 169 to Route J (Nodaway County) through mid-August. A 12-foot width restriction is in place. (Contractor: Herzog Contracting Corp.)

Route E – CLOSED for a bridge replacement project at the Walnut Fork Bridge through August. (Contractor: North Central Bridge, LLC.) More info: https://www.

modot.org/gentry-countyroute-e-walnut-fork-bridgereplacement-project

Route T – CLOSED for a bridge replacement project at the Brushy Creek Bridge through October. (Contractor: Lehman Construction and Wilson & Company) *2

Route T – CLOSED for a bridge replacement project at the Fitzgerald Creek Bridge through mid-November.

NOTICE OF TAX CERTIFICATE SALE

The following is a publication of lands and lots in Clinton County, Missouri upon which tax certificates are to be offered for sale at the Clinton County Courthouse beginning on the 4th Monday of August, the 28th day of 2023 at 10 o’clock a.m. and continuing from day to day indicated by the following publication by the undersigned according to the provisions of Section 140.170 R.S. of Missouri for 1978.

The lands and lots are to be sold under the description as listed and the amounts as shown due for each year represent the total amount of taxes, interest and costs, but not including the cost of this sale, which will be twenty-five cents more than the amount shown; and the certificate will be issued covering as much of said lands and lots as is necessary to discharge the total taxes, interest, and charges which are due thereon at the time of the sale.

A tax sale certificate does not mean you have a clear title and anyone purchasing must do a title search on each property before a collector’s deed is issued.

Anyone wanting to purchase a listed property must sign an affidavit in the collector’s office stating they do not owe any delinquent taxes. A non-resident of this state must have a Missouri resident as an appointed agent. Anyone who is interested in bidding may pre-register at the Collector’s office starting Monday, August 14th, 2023.

1506.113004005010.000

BRASFIELD ROD & GESHWIND

1506.113004005018.000 LOTS 41,42,43 BLK 22 LAKE

KEVIN E

1506.113004005019.000 LOTS 38 BLK 22 LAKE ARROW-

#2

SEEK JOSHUA JAMES

1506.113004006001.000

27, 28. 29 BLK 23 LAKE

DEXTER JOANNE L 225 1506.113004006007.000

LOT 20 BLK 23 LAKE ARROW-

MCCLOUD WILIAM L

1506.113004007001.000

LOT 9 & 10 BLK 29 LAKE ARROWHEAD #2

ADV. .00

458.10 2021 356.80 2022 317.87 TOTAL 1132. 77

13-54-31

CUELLAR JOSE(AKA JOSE

CUELLAR 225 1506.113004008001.000

LOT 8,9,10,11 BLK 27 LAKE

ARROWHEAD #2

ADV. .00

2019 431.38 2020 401.74

2021 303.64 2022 270.66

TOTAL 1407.42

STR 13-54-31

COOK CHARLES W

225 1506.113004008003.000

LOT 6 BLK 27 LAKE ARROW-

HEAD #2

ADV. .00

2020 157.48 2021 73.51

2022 66.28 TOTAL 297.27

13-54-31

SPEICHRINGER CYNTHIA & LENDESS

1506.113004010005.000 LOT 11&12 BLK 24 LAKE AR-

CARTEE SCOTT W & KATHRYN L

1506.113004010017.000

1604.018003009049.000

STR 13-54-31

LINDSLEY ERIC MARK 225 1604.018003013011.000

LOT 8 BLOCK 34 LAKE ARROW-

#2

.00 2019 178.31 2020 173.91 2021 88.98 2022 80.02 TOTAL 521.22

STR 18-54-30

SLOAN BONNIE

STR 18-54-30

MOSER CHARLES

225 1604.018004002040.000

LOT 11 BLOCK 73 LAKE ARROWHEAD #7

ADV. .00

2019 144.38 2020 143.39

2021 60.16 2022 54.45

TOTAL 402.38

STR 18-54-30

SHEPARD DONALD C

225 1604.018004002045.000

LOT 6 BLK 73 LAKE ARROW-

#7

ADV. .00

2020 253.77 2021 164.16

2022 146.79 TOTAL 564.72

STR 18-54-30

MCMICHAEL DAVID A

225 1604.018004004006.000

LOT 7-9 BLOCK 70 LAKE AR-

ROWHEAD #7

ADV. .00

2018 245.81 2019 230.49

2020 220.89 2021 133.23

2022 119.33 TOTAL 949.75

STR 18-54-30

NATIONAL DEV CO INC

225 1604.018004004009.000

ALL OF BLK 70 EXCEPT THAT P

ART PLATTED IN- TO LOTS PLA

TTED AS POND, COMMON AREA.

ADV. .00

2019 126.12 2020 126.95

2021 44.70 2022 40.71

TOTAL 338.48

STR 18-54-30

RENDLEN LAVERNE L

225 1604.018004005004.000

LOT 5 BLK 72 LAKE ARROW-

HEAD #7

ADV. .00

2017 158.60 2018 150.69

2019 144.38 2020 143.39

2021 60.16 2022 54.45

TOTAL 711.67 STR 18-54-30

BRAKE JOAN OLDEN

225 1604.018004006009.000

LOT 26 BLK 71 LAKE ARROW-

HEAD #7

ADV. .00

2020 173.91 2021 88.98

2022 80.02 TOTAL 342.91

STR 18-54-30

DRAPER THOMAS J &/OR

225 1604.018004006016.000

LOT 33 BLK 71 LAKE ARROW-

HEAD #7

ADV. .00

2020 143.39 2021 60.16

2022 54.45 TOTAL 258.00

STR 18-54-30

NATIONAL DEV CO INC

225 1604.018004006021.000

BEG AT THE NW COR OF LT 1 B

LK 74, THENCE N ALONG E ROW OF CANYON DRIVE TO THE SW

ADV. .00 2019 314.80 2020 296.78

2021 204.72 2022 182.81

TOTAL 999.11 STR 18-54-30

MILLER WANDA I 225 1604.018004006031.000

LOT 10 BLK 74 LAKE ARROWHEAD #7

ADV. .00

2020 458.10 2021 356.80

2022 317.87 TOTAL 1132.77

STR 18-54-30

MILLER WANDA & REID RO-

SANN & 225 1604.018004006032.000

1604.018004006033.000

SMITH STUART

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! CALL 816-539-2111

Classified Ad Rates

for up to 25 word or less (advance

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

Korneman Forestry Services, LLC For All Your Forestry Needs! Brush Mulching, CRP Mowing, UTV, Horse, Walking Trails, Tree Pulling,

Side Tree Trimming, Roadside Maintenance, Field Edge Cleanup, Discing For Food Plots. 816-7244395

PAYING $75/ACRE FOR RENTAL PASTURE. Will consider any size and location. 816-787-4006

Kingsville Livestock

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

Osborn Livestock

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

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

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

FOR RENT

For Lease. Hale, Mo.

2 studio apartments. Back ground check required. Utilities included. 1st month rent and deposit. No Pets. Available now. 660-645-2269 or 660-645-2316

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 as-

sistance 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 preference, 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

Pond building supplies. Roll plastic pipe, 100 lb. & 160

2022 69.36

TOTAL 853.62 STR 19-54-30

SHOTTS KARRIE & DWYER

MATHEW 218 1604.019002006056.000

LOT 40 BLOCK 50 LAKE ARROWHEAD #4

TOTAL 482.51

BASH SHARON S

218 1604.019002006082.000

LOT 14 BLOCK 50 LAKE AR-

ROWHEAD #4

ADV. .00

2017 174.85 2018 165.56

2019 156.55 2020 153.88

2021 67.84 2022 60.22

TOTAL 778.90

STR 19-54-30

NATIONAL DEV CO INC

218 1604.019002006089.000

BEG NE COR OF LOT 69 BLK

50, THENCE E 189.41’, THENCE

SW125.36’, THENCE SE TO RO

ADV. .00

2019 90.38 2020 94.75

2021 14.15 2022 13.53

TOTAL 212.81

STR 19-54-30

NATIONAL DEV CO INC

218 1604.019002006096.000

BEG AT THE SE COR OF LOT

66 BLK 50, THENCE SE TO NE

COR OF LOT 92 BLK 50,

THENCE

ADV. .00

2019 127.94 2020 128.32

2021 44.65 2022 40.05

TOTAL 340.96

STR 19-54-30

BUTZBACH HERB

218 1604.019002008011.000

LOT 298 BLOCK 17 LAKE AR-

ROWHEAD #1

ADV. .00

2019 156.55 2020 153.88

2021 67.84 2022 60.22

TOTAL 438.49

STR 19-54-30

NATIONAL DEV CO INC

218 1604.019003001009.000

27 BLK 83 LAKE ARROW-

#8, COMMON AREA.

I, Michele Wells, Collector of the County of Clinton, State of Missouri, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct list of the land and lots that will be offered for sale as above set forth.

Dated this is the 10th day of July 2023.

Michele Wells, Collector of Revenue Clinton County, Plattsburg MO (7/20, 7/27, 8/3/23)

lb. PSI. Pond shut-off & stock tank valves, hydrants. Trenton Hardware, 901 Main, Trenton, 660-3593660.

For Sale - Camper. Excellent condition. 2017 Hideout LHS 185. Sleeps 6. Galt. $9,500. 515-771-4020

For Sale - 32 Gallon fuel transfer tank with electric pump. Mounting hardware included. 2 years old. $550.00 Call (816)528-4534 or (816) 679-5336. No Texting.

For Sale - Washer & Dryer. Medium load units, stackable for small spaces. Great for an RV, small apartment, or condo. Hoses, dryer vent tube, and manuals all included. 7 years old, works great! $850. 816-528-4534 or 816-679-5336. NO Text.

For Sale - 28ft 2005 Rockwood by Forest river gooseneck camper, and a 17ft 2007 Surveyor pull camper. Call 816617-3372

TRUSTEE’S SALE

IN RE: Cody Hays, A Single Person Trustee’s Sale: For default in payment of debt and performance of obligation secured by Deed of Trust executed by Cody Hays, A Single Person dated May 26, 2017 and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Clinton County, Missouri as Instrument Number: 201701515 and modified by a Loan Modification Agreement recorded September 3, 2021 as Instrument Number 202103471 and further modified by a Loan Modification Agreement recorded November 22, 2022 as Instrument Number 202203732 the undersigned Successor Trustee, at the request of the legal holder of said Note will on Monday, August 14, 2023 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., (at the specific time of 12:50 PM), at the West Front Door of the Court House, City of Plattsburg, County of Clinton, State of Missouri, sell at public vendue to the highest bidder for cash the following described real estate, described in said Deed of Trust, and situated in Clinton County, State of Missouri, to wit: LOT FIFTEEN (15) AND THE SOUTH FORTY (40) FEET OF LOT SIXTEEN (16), BLOCK FOURTEEN (14), IN THE TOWN (NOW CITY) OF TRIMBLE, CLINTON COUNTY, MISSOURI.

to satisfy said debt and costs.

MILLSAP & SINGER, P.C., Successor Trustee 612 Spirit Drive St. Louis, MO 63005

(636) 537-0110

File No: 215315.081423.432440 FC

NOTICE

Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, 15 U.S.C. §1692c(b), no information concerning the collection of this debt may be given without the prior consent of the consumer given directly to the debt collector or the express permission of a court of competent jurisdiction. The debt collector is attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

PUBLISH ON: July 20, 2023 07/27/2023, 08/03/2023, 08/10/2023 (7/20, 7/27, 8/3, 8/10/23)

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!

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

EMPLOYMENT

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

North Central Missouri College is seeking part-time, temporary, summer maintenance workers. Work includes mowing, trimming, landscaping, painting, and basic repairs. 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

First Christian Church is seeking a part-time church office manager. Applicants need bookkeeping and clerical skills - experi-

ence working with the public is preferred. Interested persons should contact the church at 660-3593928. Resumes may be mailed to 1700 Princeton Road, Trenton MO 64683 or dropped off at the church entryway box. Additional information can be found at https://www.facebook.com/fcctrentondoc/

SERVICES

H & S CONTRACTING Remodeling, room additions, ga-

rages & 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 HoerrmannOwner, 30 years experience – 660-9530724.

*SEAMLESS GUTTERING* We are ready to replace your old gutters with new seamless aluminum

gutters! MOORE’S CONSTRUCTION & WOODWORK, INC. 359-5477. 52 Years

Experience.

Carquest Auto Parts

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

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

PAGE TREE SERVICE Jeff Page 660359-3699-shop, 660-359-2202home. Serving the entire Green Hills

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF CLINTON COUNTY, MISSOURI

PROBATE DIVISION

Case Number: 23CN-PR00034

In the Estate of TERRY FERN KLINE, Deceased.

Notice to Creditors (Small Estate)

To All Persons Interested in the Estate of TERRY FERN KLINE, Decedent:

On April 4, 2023, a small estate affidavit was filed by the distributees for the decedent under Section 473.097, RSMo, with the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of CLINTON County, Missouri.

All creditors of the decedent, who died on February 27, 2023, are notified that Section 473.444, RSMo, sets a limitation period that would bar claims one year after the death of the decedent. A creditor may request that this estate be opened for administration.

Receipt of this notice should not be construed by the recipient to indicate that the recipient may possibly have a beneficial interest in the estate. The nature and extent of any person’s interest, if any, may possibly be determined from the affidavit on this estate filed in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Clinton County, Missouri.

Date of first publication is July 20, 2023

Division Clerk, Jessy Schulz

By: /S/ J. Schulz (7/20, 7/27/23)

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

Case Number: 23CN-PR00048

In the Estate of PAUL DAVID HARTER, Deceased. Notice of Letters Testamentary Granted (Independent Administration)

To All Persons Interested in the Estate of PAUL DAVID HARTER, Decedent:

On 06.29.2023, the last will of Decedent having been admitted to probate, the following individual was appointed the personal representative of the estate of PAUL DAVID HARTER, 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 name, business address of the personal representative is:

John Harter – 1200 S.W. Belle Avenue, Topeka, KS 66604

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

Michael Huffman – 222 W Maple Avenue, Independence, MO 64060-2816

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: 20-FEB-2023

Date of first publication: 07.06.2023 /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.

7/13, 7/20, 7/27/23)

Area! Specializing in tree trimming, stump grinding & complete removal. 75’ bucket truck, chipper & stump grinder. Licensed & insured. Free Estimates!

JAMESPORT BUILDERS, 660-

684-6931, 32137 State Hwy 6, Jamesport. POLE BARNS – GARAGES, Spray foam insulation.

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.

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

PUBLIC NOTICES

Because The People Must Know

NOTICE OF ELECTION

Notice is hereby given that the Special August Election has been called and will be held at specific precincts of said County of Clinton. Those specific polls will be open between the hours of 6 o’clock in the morning until 7 o’clock in the evening on Tuesday, August 8, 2023. The ballot for the Election shall be in substantially the following format.

POLLING locations are as follows:

East Buchanan C-1 School District will vote at: Gower Fire Station 407 N. 169 Highway Gower, MO 64454

Stewartsville C-2 School District will vote at: Clinton County Clerk’s office 207 N. Main St. Room 103 Plattsburg, MO 64477

Kearney R-1 School District will vote at: Holt Fire Station 260 N 33 Highway Holt, MO 64048

I, David Woody, Local Election Authority and Clerk of the County Commission, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true and correct list of the issues, the polling places for each precinct and the hours during which the polling places will be open.

IN TESTIMONY Whereof, I hereunto set my hand and affix the seal of the said County Commission. Done in my office in Plattsburg, Missouri this 18th day of July, 2023.

/s/ David Woody Clinton County Clerk Local Election Authority (7/27, 8/3/23)

BUY - SELLTRADE -BIG

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

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.

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.

LAUHOFF JEWELRY Downtown Chillicothe620 Washington St.

Open Monday-Friday 9:00-5:30, Saturday

9:00-1:00. 660-6463504 www.lauhoffjewelry. com

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.

Offutt, Offutt & Associates Auction Service. Land, farm, and Home. Free Appraisals. Cameron, MO. 816-724-3214

RUMMAGE SALE

Garage Sale 801 Custer St., Trenton Fri 28th- Sat 29th

Garage Sale

Christmas in July Christmas decorations, Household goods. 7/28 & 7/29

8am to 4pm. 136 Lakeview Drive Plattsburg MO.

WANTED

Tillable land wantedClinton, Ray, Buchanan or Caldwell Counties. Serious inquiries only. Call 816-686-6979.

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

Korneman Forestry Services, LLC For All Your Forestry Needs! Brush Mulching, CRP Mowing, UTV, Horse, Walking Trails, Tree Pulling, Side Tree Trimming,

Roadside Maintenance, Field Edge Cleanup, Discing For Food Plots. 816-7244395

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

PAYING $75/ACRE FOR RENTAL PASTURE. Will consider any size and location. 816-787-4006

FOR RENT

For Lease. Hale, Mo. 2 studio apartments. Back ground check required. Utilities included. 1st month rent and deposit. No Pets. Available now. 660-645-2269 or 660-645-2316

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 ac-

tivities of daily living. Now accepting Medicaid. For more information contact Cassandra Brewer at 660-359-5647.

FOR SALE

Pond building supplies. Roll plastic pipe, 100 lb. & 160 lb. PSI. Pond shut-off & stock tank valves, hydrants. Trenton Hardware, 901 Main, Trenton, 660-3593660.

For Sale - Camper. Excellent condition. 2017 Hideout LHS 185. Sleeps 6. Galt. $9,500. 515-771-4020

For Sale - 32 Gallon fuel transfer tank with electric pump. Mounting hardware included. 2 years old. $550.00 Call (816)528-4534 or (816) 679-5336. No Texting.

For Sale - Washer & Dryer. Medium load units, stackable for small spaces. Great for an RV, small apartment, or condo. Hoses, dryer vent tube, and manuals all included. 7 years old, works great! $850. 816-528-4534 or 816-679-5336. NO Text.

For Sale - 28ft 2005 Rockwood by Forest river gooseneck camper, and a 17ft 2007 Surveyor pull camper. Call 816617-3372

EMPLOYMENT

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

North Central Missouri College is seeking part-time, temporary, summer maintenance workers. Work includes mowing, trimming, landscaping, painting, and basic repairs. 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

First Christian Church is seeking a part-time church office manager. Applicants need bookkeeping and clerical skills - experience working with the public is preferred. Interested persons should contact the church at 660-3593928. Resumes may be mailed to 1700 Princeton Road, Trenton MO 64683 or dropped off at the church entryway box. Additional information can be found at https://www.facebook.com/fcctrentondoc/

SERVICES

Offutt, Offutt & Associates Auction Service. Land, farm, and Home. Free Appraisals. Cameron, MO. 816-724-3214

RUMMAGE SALE

Garage Sale 801 Custer St., Trenton Fri 28th- Sat 29th

Garage Sale Christmas in July Christmas decorations, Household goods. 7/28 & 7/29 8am to 4pm. 136 Lakeview Drive Plattsburg MO.

Email your legal notices to Tiffany Wilson at legals@ clintoncounty leader.com

NOTICE OF HEARING

Easton Fire Protection District will hold a tax levy meeting on Tuesday, August 9th at 7 PM to set the levy for the upcoming year. This is open to the public and will be held at the Easton Fire Protection District Building.

(7/20, 7/27/23)

PUBLIC NOTICE

PURSUANT TO 42 USC §11044

The Clinton County LEPC hereby notifies the public that emergency response plan(s), material safety data sheets and inventory forms have been submitted pursuant to the EPCRA. These materials along with any follow up emergency notices may be reviewed at the Clinton County Health Department, 106 Bush St. by appointment. Contact Blair Shock at 816-539-2144 for an appointment.

(7/27/23)

(7/27/23)

With a growing assessed value, the Clinton County R-III School District finds itself in a solid position to tackle its financial needs in the coming future.

The Clinton County R-III Board of Education met Wednesday, July 19, and heard a finance update from Joe Kinder (who attended the meeting virtually). Kinder reported that the district is on great financial footing. The assessed value has grown at a substantial rate and the district could save upwards of $600,000 by retiring its debts earlier than scheduled.

He added that, mean-

while, the district’s debt cap has grown, and leaders could consider asking for a no-tax-increase bond issue of between $5 million and $7 million in 2025. Superintendent Dr. Sandy Steggall said two possible projects – a building with a cafeteria and additional learning space in the unoccupied land between the high school and middle school, and secondly, needed HVAC replacements – remain on the district’s long-term plan.

Kinder also explained that the district could go to the voters and ask for a tax balancing technique in which the debt service levy would be decreased, and the operating levy increased, so

Plattsburg Back to School Night next month

The Plattsburg Fall Festival will once again be welcoming students “back to school” ahead of their return to the classroom.

The festival committee will be hosting Back to School Night on Saturday, August 12, on Main Street in downtown Plattsburg.

There will be a “Movie on Main” for everyone to enjoy, plus a lot of free giveaways, including wristbands for the carnival

at the Plattsburg Fall Festival this coming October. Local businesses are welcome to donate or help with the event.

Be sure to visit the Fall Festival on Facebook and keep an eye on The Leader for more details on the event. Here’s wishing a great school year to all of the students in Clinton County who are returning next month!

Superb Home in Holt

Beautiful spacious home in a quiet neighborhood. Full of updates including a brand new driveway, new septic system and newer appliances! Lower level houses all three bedrooms with a large back patio and workshop. With almost 4 acres you can enjoy peaceful mornings on the huge back balcony observing the wildlife. Home includes the extra storage shed and adorable playhouse!

If you’ve been looking to get out of the hustle and bustle and settle in a serene rural area then this home is the one!

that additional funds can be focused on the classroom.

Also on Wednesday, J.P. Cradic with the Plattsburg Masonic Lodge was on hand to present the school district with a donation of $29,835 on behalf of the organization. Cradic explained the the local lodge raised funds for the donation, which were then matched two-for-one by the Missouri Masonic Home Foundation, turning each dollar into three dollars. He said that the lodge also donates to Head Start and the Care Portal. Also in attendance for the lodge were Curtis Cradic and Michael New.

The board voted that evening to increase meal

prices by a nickel for the upcoming school year. Dr. Steggall said that, based on calculations, the district could have increased the prices by 10 cents, but considering the economy at the moment, they opted to recommend a five-cent increase. She also reiterated the importance of families filling out the paperwork for free and reduced lunch, even if they believe it’s unlikely they will qualify for the program. The board approved both the student handbook and the curriculum handbook. As part of the move, the board members had expanded discussion about the punishments for improper

cell phone usage, and the structure of how students can opt out of class finals if they have great attendance.

Dr. Steggall added that, in addition to valedictorian and salutatorian, the school is going to expand the list of graduation honors to include students who obtain high honors (magna cum laude, etc.).

The board also approved two new classes at the high school at the recommendation of the administration. The first is a construction-based geometry course. Dr. Steggall said the hope is, once the students sharpen their skills, the district will provide the opportunity for them to build

CCR-III in position to save on debt, could borrow again soon Lodge donates to Head Start

sheds and homes as part of the course. The second class is an honors English course.

Dr. Steggall reported Wednesday that Mark Coulter and family donated a plaque for the new stadium that thanks the community for its efforts to get the facility built. She said a formal ceremony will be held during football season. She added that the Talley Turn has been established at the track, which recognizes a $25,000 donation from longtime community leader Don Talley to the facility.

Longhorned ticks found in Mid-Missouri

COLUMBIA, Mo. — Researchers at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine have recently discovered invasive longhorned ticks in Boone County, Missouri, for the first time. The discovery of the longhorned tick, which has already caused the loss of millions of dollars in agricultural revenue to livestock producers worldwide, indicates a potential looming problem for cattle health in mid-Missouri. This tick species can also potentially transmit a variety of pathogens to humans.

“These longhorned ticks have the potential to transmit theileriosis, a dis-

ease that kills red blood cells in cattle,” said Rosalie Ierardi, a clinical instructor at the MU Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (VMDL) and doctoral student at the MU College of Veterinary Medicine, who last year discovered these same longhorned ticks in northern Missouri. “Symptoms of this infection in cattle could include weight loss, tiredness, weakness, jaundice and pregnancy loss, which all have economic consequences for cattle ranchers looking to sell their calves.”

The discovery in Boone County was made in late April by lerardi, who is men-

tored by Ram Raghavan, an associate professor in the MU College of Veterinary Medicine and an associate professor in the MU College of Health Sciences. The recent discovery is part of Ierardi’s doctoral dissertation studies.

Originally established in eastern Russia and Australasia, the region that comprises Australia, New Zealand and neighboring islands in the Pacific Ocean, the invasive longhorned tick was first noted outside quarantine in the United States in 2017 in New Jersey. Since then, they have spread throughout the Mid-Atlantic, New England and Mid-

western regions, being officially detected in at least 19 states and counting.

“These discoveries help raise awareness for both veterinarians and Missouri livestock producers so that they can monitor the health of animals and make better informed decisions,” Raghavan said. “A combination of factors, including increasingly warming temperatures for ticks to thrive in and an increase in people engaging in outdoor activities in rural or suburban areas where ticks are more prevalent, have increased the rates of ticks transmitting pathogens to wildlife, people and their pets.”

The Plattsburg Masonic Lodge raised funds and utilized the matching-funds grant through the Missouri Masonic Home Foundation (two-to-one) in order to donate $2,400 to Plattsburg Head Start this past week. (Left to Right) J.P. Cradic with the Plattsburg Masonic Lodge, Beth Curry with Head Start, and Michael New with the lodge.