The Leader • 1-18-24

LEADER CLINTON COUNT Y

Thurs., January 18, 2024 |

$1.00 | “Covers Clinton County Like Dew ”

Plattsburg, Lathrop and Gower, Mo.

LEAVING EAST BUCHANAN

Barker to lead North Andrew R-VI by brett adkison leader editor

For more than a decade, Josh Barker has led students and teachers at East Buchanan Elementary to tremendous suc-

PLATTSBURG

Residents Sound-Off on City

cess. But beginning next school year, he’ll trade his principal’s office in Gower for a superintendent’s desk in Andrew County. Barker will be resigning his position after this

school year to become the superintendent of North Andrew R-VI, located in Rosendale, Mo., about 20 miles north of St. Joseph. He said that North Andrew reminds

him of East Buchanan—a solid school district with great facilities, opportunities for students outside of the classroom and a commitment to student ||Continued on A2

ROYALTY

EBHS COURTWARMING

leader editor

||Continued on A2

On Monday, January 8, the Gower City Council held a public hearing to discuss the East Buchanan School District’s request to annex part of the district’s farm into the Gower city limits in anticipation of building the new middle school on S. Fourth Street. The middle school will be built on what is currently the prac-

A look at the Trimble/ Smithville area and the rise of storage space around the lake. || PAGE A6

Sam Martin Invitational

See what calls for service the Clinton County Sheriff ’s Department recently fielded through dispatch. || PAGE A3

Community........A5 Opinion..............A4 Legals..............A10 Sports................A7

THE LEADER Est. 1895

East Buchanan High School began 2024 by crowning new royalty on Friday, Jan. 5. Senior Zora Whitt was crowned the 2024 EBHS Courtwarming Queen, while fellow senior Gage Busby was crowned King. For more from the night, see page A12. photo courtesy of east buchanan c-i schools

Council gives first approval for annexation leader reporter

How many storage units?

Sheriff ’s Calls for Service

CITY OF GOWER

by jim bonebrake

One Section | 12 pages

Plattsburg, Lathrop wrestlers compete at Plattsburg’s annual meeting on the mat. || PAGE A7

by brett adkison

The Plattsburg City Council had an eventful meeting last Monday, January 8, as they heard more than an hour of public comments to open the evening. Linda Brooks spoke to the council. She said Plattsburg has a great downtown, but the city does things to trash it up. She was told at the last meeting that the dumpsters would be moved off Broadway at the first of the year, and they weren’t. Among her concerns was the privately-owned fence on city property in the alleyway behind the west side of Main Street, the duties of the city inspector and the number of cops in the police department. She feels there are too many officers and suggested one of the positions be made a full-time city inspector. She said she will be back each month until the dumpster and alley situation is resolved. Mayor James Kennedy told her the Chamber of Commerce has brought up the need for more parking and public restrooms downtown. He said he previously suggested the city offer a fair-market price for

INSIDE

tice football field, with the practice field being moved to the south. There were no members of the community present to ask questions, and after a short presentation from Superintendent Dr. John Newell, the council voted 3-0 to approve the request. There will be a 14-day waiting period for any opposition to be heard, and if none is submitted, the council will then be able to vote to

formalize the request for the annexation at its next council meeting in February. During the regular city council meeting, the council received an update on the SS4A Grant, as well as the MoDOT TAP request. Mayor Kenny Pike informed the council that MoDOT had received the estimate for the new sidewalk to be built along Railroad St., and that federal funds have been autho-

rized for the project. Mayor Pike also said that the first estimates in November of 2022 came in at $248,000 for the project, and the current estimate for this project was now about $195,246, which is good news for the city. The next steps will be for MoDOT to advertise this for two weeks on their website and for the city to run notices in the St. Joseph News-Press.

||Continued on A3

Winner of 100+ awards from the Missouri press assoc.

Honeycutt Media 102 e. Maple St. Plattsburg, Mo., 64477 (UPS 435580000) 816.539.2111 email: leader@clintoncountyleader.com

VOL. 129, NO. 13

Community

Page A2 • Thursday, January 18, 2024

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

Plattsburg City Council, Continued from Page A1 certain land on the alleyway, pave it, add restrooms and move the dumpsters there. He feels this move would have solved the issue a year ago, but it wasn’t given due consideration because the suggestion came from him. Larry Schussler, a previous council member who is once again running for office, spoke to the council next. He gave the city credit for the positive audit review they received the previous month. In regards to its solid waste collection through Redgate Disposal, he said residents have essentially voted against the need for curbside recycle collection, as few residents use it despite paying for it. He also feels that the city needs to find grants to help offset project costs in the water department instead of raising rates, as those rates never come back down and some residents (especially the elderly) have to decide between putting food on the table or paying higher water bills. He asked that the city keep that in mind. Frankie Lewis spoke to the council next. He said that a couple years back he had a break-in at one of his properties and he contacted the police department. He said the department didn’t come out to look into it and he never heard another word

about it. In a separate issue, he said he previously received a code ordinance letter about his property being overgrown. He laid some blame at the feet of the city, as the property drains to what he believes is a city-owned park, but the drainage under the road was plugged on both ends. He said that inspector and code enforcement officer Jim Bonebrake and City Administrator Chase Waggoner told him if he didn’t mow down the property, the city would need to obtain bids and contract a service to do it at Lewis’s expense. Lewis was fine with this until the bill came for $700. Lewis said he was mad about the bill, so he drove around town and logged a book of code infractions that he saw. He gave copies to both Bonebrake and Waggoner, but nothing was ever done. Waggoner later said that he did receive the book, but was unsure what to do with the information because it lacked context. Lewis questioned why Waggoner wouldn’t call him for context and remarked that he was being given a runaround. Lewis also told the council he wants to put a subdivision in town. He said it’s a great town but there are things the city needs to

improve if the community wants to move forward. Darrell Morgan spoke next, specifically to Waggoner, stating that every time someone from the public has a question during these meetings, Waggoner never has a direct answer. He used the fence in the alleyway as an example, stating if there is no record of its approval, then it shouldn’t be there. Waggoner noted that the fence was built before he was hired to the city. Mayor Kennedy said that the fence was likely given a verbal okay, leading to the lack of a record of it. He opined that it wasn’t right and agreed with Morgan on the need for proper record-keeping. On the alleyway issues, Councilman Ken Tongue said that he has a possible deal formatted for the Streets and Alley Committee but they were unable to finalize it before the meeting as they had hoped. He said it would result in the dumpsters being moved back into the alleyway and off Broadway, and would allow access for service and emergency vehicles. But Tongue also noted frustrations with the situation. “That’s what happens every time we go to solve this problem,” he said. “We have somebody throwing

a monkey wrench in it that want’s to delay it.” The discussion once again broke down into an argument between Tongue, Mayor Kennedy and the crowd, as the different sides argued over various aspects of the proposed deal, including trash pick-up dates. David Jett, a candidate for mayor, spoke and said the city has weak processes in place when it comes to city codes and enforcement and they need better record-keeping. He said he’s submitted possible infractions to the city and certain people get favoritism when it comes to the codes. Mayor Kennedy claimed that Jett had threatened to sue the city on multiple instances, and that Jett had lied during a previous meeting when he said that he hadn’t threatened to sue. Jett denied the allegation. Chris Finley also spoke to the council and Waggoner about the upcoming major sidewalk project, for which the town has earned a sizable MoDOT Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant of nearly $400,000. Finley and Waggoner spoke about timelines, the process for obtaining a project engineer. Waggoner said the city has submitted their work to MoDOT and are awaiting word back from the depart-

ment. Alderman Richard Stanley urged Waggoner to move with haste, as the city could lose the grant if certain benchmarks aren’t met in time. The council moved on to business, during which they approved the lease-purchase agreement to fund the construction of the new elevated water storage tank on the north side of town. The price tag is not to exceed $2.5 million. Waggoner reminded those in attendance that the city took out bonds in 2019 for tower and water system improvements, but because of increased costs and inflation, the city separated the tower from the overall project so they could fund it through a lease-purchase structure. Before approving it, Alderman Stanley commented first on the sheer size of the agreement, noting that he was unable to read the entire thing. He said they were voting essentially on the word of Waggoner and McLiney that it was a good deal. McLiney said it’s a cut-and-dry agreement and Waggoner said that McLiney and Company serve as the city’s advisor because of the company’s expertise in the subject matter. The council went on to

vote to allow Waggoner to enter into an amended rightof-way use agreement with Charter Communications, which aims to install fiber optic, high-speed internet for Spectrum. Both Waggoner and the council have been weary of Charter crews, including their quality of work and willingness to work with the city. But as Waggoner explained that evening, the state legislature and Missouri Public Service Commission have allowed these companies to use city rightof-way in an effort to expand high-speed internet in rural areas. Waggoner said there isn’t much the city can do other than strike an agreement that will regulate how construction crews operate in town, such as the times during which they can work, returning the right-of-way to its previous condition, etc., giving the city some degree of protection. The council okayed a utility services agreement with Sustainability Partners which will help the city structure how it finances certain projects, but those projects will need to first be approved by the council. The council also voted to waive certain planning and zoning fees for additional signage placed by the Plattsburg Chamber of Commerce.

out and support it. That sup- ing success at high levels together. We were not able portCCL for Advertising kids is so copy.qxp_CCL important for many years. He added to do that for a few years - The Paper ads 12/28/23 10:46 AM Page 44 and something I will always that, as learning standards and the teachers did a great love about East Buchanan.” changed, he and his staff ad- job of adjusting and makHe added that he’ll justed their plans, tried new ing the most of a tough sitcontinue to be a part of the things and did what they felt uation. The teachers at East Gower community, as his was best for the students. Buchanan continue to come children will remain in the “I was so proud of the in, day-in and day-out, and East Buchanan School Dis- staff for how they handled pour their souls into these trict. the COVID years,” he said. students. I am just proud of Barker said he’s most “So much of elementary is how hard our staff and stuproud of the students achiev- small groups and working dents work. They want stu-

dent success and want the students to enjoy their time at East Buchanan. “I am very thankful, as well, for the parents. They want what is best for their children. They worked with us in a partnership and trusted us to give their children what they need to be successful.”

Barker Leaving East Buchanan, Continued from Page A1 growth. Barker has spent a total of 15 years at East Buchanan, including four years as an elementary teacher interlacesd with a pair of stints with the North Kansas City School District. He said when he first came to East Buchanan, he expected he would like the district, but he had no idea the hold it

would have on him. “It is a special place with special people,” Barker said. “I think what I love the most about this community is the support they give the kids. If we have an event, we bring a lot of people out. That includes athletics, music concerts, Reading Adventures; it doesn’t matter what it is, the parents come

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United Cooperatives Inc.’s Annual Membership Meeting* will be held at the Community Courtyard at 117 W. Maple Street in Plattsburg MO on Thursday February 23, 2024. A catered dinner will be served starting at 6 pm and the meeting will follow. Members may vote by absentee ballot. Ballots will be available at our Plattsburg or Osborn office locations and must be returned to either office by Tuesday February 13th at 12 noon. Nominations may be made at the meeting. Please RSVP by Tuesday February 13th via email or by calling one of the numbers listed below:

816-930-2000 • www.woodwardre.com

unitedcoopgm@gmail.com 816-930-2171 • 816-675-2297

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3x5

Community

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

Thursday, January 18, 2024 • Page A3

Clinton County Sheriff ’s Department Calls for Service

Friday, January 5 4:08 a.m.: Medical call on K Highway in Stewartsville. 7:42 a.m.: Medical call on 36 Highway in Hamilton. 8:38 a.m.: Medical call on Cannonball in Holt. 10:24 a.m.: Medical call on 116 Highway in Plattsburg. 2:06 p.m.: Medical call on SE Troxler in Lawson. 3:32 p.m.: Pursuit on I-35 in Clinton County. 3:34 p.m.: Medical call on N. Short Ridge Drive in Easton. 3:42 p.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on 116 Highway in Lathrop. 3:50 p.m.: Medical call on I-35 in Holt. 5:23 p.m.: Medical call on South Street in Lathrop. 5:57 p.m.: Medical call on PP Highway in Holt. 6:18 p.m.: Medical call on Center Street in Lathrop. 6:41 p.m.: Gas odor on 33 Highway in Plattsburg. 9:48 p.m.: Vehicle crash on W. 116 Highway in Clinton County. 9:49 p.m.: Medical call on W. 116 Highway in Clinton County. 10:24 p.m.: Disturbance in progress on SE Comanche Drive in Clinton County.

2:40 p.m.: Medical call on 116 Highway in Plattsburg. 3:40 p.m.: Medical call on Aller Avenue in Edgerton. 4:29 p.m.: Domestic in progress on N. Main in Plattsburg. 5:32 p.m.: Domestic in progress on Center Street in Lathrop. 9:24 p.m.: Medical call on N. Main in Plattsburg. 11:49 p.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on 69 Highway in Clinton County.

Saturday, January 6 9:34 a.m.: Medical call on Clinton Drive in Gower. 10:13 a.m.: Medical call on E. Osage in Plattsburg. 10:16 a.m.: Careless and imprudent driver on I-35 in Lathrop.

Monday, January 8 8:22 a.m.: Suspicious vehicle in progress on Main Street in Plattsburg. 8:40 a.m.: Medical call on Matthews Lane in Gower. 10:51 a.m.: Medical call on Fourth Street in Plattsburg.

Sunday, January 7 1:57 a.m.: Medical call on E. Concord Drive in Plattsburg. 6:42 a.m.: Medical call on E. Concord in Plattsburg. 9:34 a.m.: Medical call on Center Street in Lathrop. 11:03 a.m.: Vehicle crash on 297th Street in Clinton County. 3:36 p.m.: Disturbance in progress on Neth Road in Trimble. 3:59 p.m.: Medical call on Santa Fe in Gower. 5:28 p.m.: Structure fire on C Highway in Holt. 7:43 p.m.: Medical call on SW Holiday Harbor in Plattsburg. 9:24 p.m.: Medical call on Santa Fe in Gower.

1:50 p.m.: Vehicle crash on County. I-35 in Lathrop. 116 Highway in Edgerton. 116 Highway in Lathrop. 6:14 a.m.: Vehicle crash on 9:31 p.m.: Vehicle crash on 2:51 p.m.: Medical call on 2:33 p.m.: Suspicious person 116 Highway in Lathrop. 116 Highway in Lathrop. Center Street in Lathrop. on N. Main in Plattsburg. 7:05 a.m.: Medical call on 3:12 p.m.: Medical call on 3:02 p.m.: Vehicle crash on NE 352nd Street in Osborn. Wednesday, January 10 SE Cannonball in Holt. 116 Highway in Lathrop. 8:37 a.m.: Vehicle crash on 8:56 a.m.: Medical call on E. 4:29 p.m.: Animal call on SE 3:04 p.m.: Vehicle crash on I-35 in Clinton County. Clay Avenue in Plattsburg. Haynesville Road in Holt. 116 Highway in Lathrop. 8:50 a.m.: Medical call on 9:49 a.m.: Vehicle crash on 4:36 p.m.: Domestic in prog4:22 p.m.: Vehicle crash on VV Highway in Gower. N. Main Street in Plattsburg. ress on SE Cheyenne in Lath33 Highway. 10:11 a.m.: Medical call on 1:31 p.m.: Medical call on rop. 4:36 p.m.: Vehicle crash on K Rosebriar Court in Gower. SE Cree in Lathrop. 4:46 p.m.: Domestic in progHighway in Plattsburg. 12:32 p.m.: Vehicle crash on 1:33 p.m.: Medical call on ress on SE Cheyenne in Lath4:54 p.m.: Vehicle crash on I-35 in Clinton County. Maple Street in Holt. rop. I-35. 12:42 p.m.: Vehicle crash 1:47 p.m.: Domestic (not in 5:55 p.m.: Suspicious vehicle 5:07 p.m.: Vehicle crash on Z on 116 Highway in Clinton progress) on NE Woodridge in progress on SE Hamby in Highway in Trimble. County. in Cameron. Plattsburg. 5:08 p.m.: Vehicle crash on 1:17 p.m.: Suicidal subject at 3:40 p.m.: Domestic (not in 6:48 p.m.: Animal call on 69 Highway in Cameron. Trex Mart in Lathrop. progress) on NE 256th Street 169 Highway in Trimble. 5:42 p.m.: Vehicle crash on 2:15 p.m.: Medical call on in Lathrop. 7:03 p.m.: Animal call on I-35 in Clinton County. Howard Road in Trimble. 5:34 p.m.: Medical call on Sellers Place in Lathrop. 6:28 p.m.: Vehicle crash on 2:51 p.m.: Suicidal subject Cannonball in Holt. 7:08 p.m.: Medical call on I-35 in Clinton County. on N. Sixth Street in PlattsSE PP Highway in Holt. 6:31 p.m.: Medical call on burg. Thursday, January 11 9:03 p.m.: Vehicle crash on Santa Fe in Gower. 4:55 p.m.: Vehicle crash on 2:51 a.m.: Medical call on SE Ridgeview Drive in Clin7:24 p.m.: Medical call on N. SE Haynesville in Clinton Briar Lane in Holt. ton County. Tina Livestock Market.qxp_Tina Livestock 1/11/24 4:319:03 PM p.m.: Page Medical 3 East Street in Plattsburg. County. 10:16Auction a.m.: Medical call on call on 7:57 p.m.: Medical call on 6:26 p.m.: Careless and im- 169 Highway in Gower. SE Ridgeview Drive in ClinNE Rangeline in Osborn. prudent driver on I-35 in 1:48 p.m.: Animal call on N. ton County. 8:33 p.m.: Medical call on Z Cameron. Main in Plattsburg. Highway in Edgerton. 9:18 p.m.: Vehicle crash on 1:52 p.m.: Structure fire on 8:37 p.m.: Domestic in progress on SE Perren in Holt. 8:47 p.m.: Domestic in progress on SE Meadow in Lathrop. 9:15 p.m.: Stealing in prog435 W. 2nd St., Tina, MO 64682 ress on SE Shawnee Drive in Casey & Amelia Flinn, Owners Lathrop. Tuesday, January 9 2:25 a.m.: Vehicle crash on Z Highway in Trimble. 6:10 a.m.: Vehicle crash on PP Highway in Holt. 6:12 a.m.: Vehicle crash on 69 Highway in Clinton

Gower Council, Continued from Page A1 There will be another hearing at Gower City Hall on January 23 at 10 a.m., and Mayor Pike said the action plan should be in place by June of 2024. An update on Gregory Drive was also provided. The first phase of the project is nearly completed, with some finish work needing to be done when the area dries up enough to do so. The second phase of the project will be the placement of drain tiles. This part of the project will not start until the first phase is completed. Mayor Pike is hoping for this phase to begin sometime in late spring or early summer. Under new business, the council heard a request for an increase on trash service fees from Redgate Disposal owner Terry Peterson. Mr. Peterson told the council that he knew his current contract did not expire until September of 2025, but he was coming to the council to ask for the increase due to his costs escalating for all aspects of his business, as well as recycling costs increasing. He asked for an increase in fees for customers

of $2 a month, plus another $1 for some of the allowed three-percent increase in the contract. “There is only one location in the Kansas City area now willing to take commingled recycling, and when in the recent past we were being paid $35 a ton, we are now being charged $95 a ton for them to take our recycling. I spoke with Clinco about taking the recycling, but their capacity to do so is at their capacity and they require we sort out the different items and put them in separate containers. It’s not financially feasible for us to do that,” Peterson stated. He continued by telling the council that he understood if they did not wish to increase the fees for trash service by this amount, but that the contract allowed for a three-percent increase annually, and he had not requested any increases until now. He said he is not trying to make additional monies, but simply trying to put his company in a break-even mode due to current cost increases.

Peterson went on to say he was, and still is, a supporter of recycling because he believes that the cost currently for recycling is still far cheaper that the potential cost for a new landfill in the future, and the number of landfills in the state of Missouri has been reduced significantly, with only about half still open. Pederson told the council that the current rate for Savannah is $22, Smithville is paying $20.16, and Plattsburg pays $18; this increase will put Gower residents at $15.38 a month. After much discussion among council members, the council voted to increase trash fees for its residents to $15.38 monthly, by a vote of 4-0. City Administrator Carroll Fisher and Police Chief Adam Hill both gave department reports to the council. With no additional business before the council, they adjourned at 8:01 p.m. The next scheduled council meeting is Monday, February, 12, at 7 p.m.

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OPINIONS

Page A4 • Thursday, January 18, 2024

A QUICK WORD

Pickin’ Presidents by brett adkison leader editor

ri.

It’s almost time to go caucusing in Missou-

For the first time in a long time, the state Republican party will forgo the traditional ballot box for the presidential primaries. A couple years back, Missouri lawmakers nixed the public primaries, leaving each party to decide its own vehicle to select a candidate, beginning this spring. Republicans will caucus on March 2, while Democrats will hold a hybrid mix of mail-in and in-person votes later in the month. It’s a win for taxpayers, as parties will be on the hook for much of the costs. Also, it removes a facade from the political machine; despite voters casting ballots in Missouri’s past primaries, the parties would caucus afterward, anyway, and the results from the ballot box had no legal bearing on the actual winner. A caucus also sounds like good ol’ fashioned fun. I’ve grown tired of technology in my middle age, and each “advancement” seems to be more of a headache than a help. We’re so detached from each other, thanks in part to shallow social media and a pandemic that kept us split apart. So the thought of a community coming together, working through their collective thoughts, and putting forward a candidate who serves their wishes—well, that suits me just fine. Maybe the voting booth has been a hindrance in some respects. We don’t talk about politics or religion at our dinner tables, and with good reason. But in a primary setting, this could be a tremendous exercise. We should be able to look another man in the eye when we put our candidate forward, and we should exercise understanding when we disagree. That could be wishful thinking. The political climate has been horrible for a while, and we, the electorate, like to blame the politicians when really we should look inward. We should be a reflection of the government we truly want, and our government should be a reflection of us at our best. In six short weeks, we’ll find out whether the caucus causes a fracas, or it better serves our purpose. On a different note, East Buchanan Elementary Principal Josh Barker has announced he’ll be the next superintendent at North Andrew. It’s a tough loss for the district, but given the stability in their administrative and teaching staff, they should have plenty of suitors for the vacancy. Barker has been a foundational presence at East Buchanan for a decade, helping prepare the district’s youngest students for future success. He’s also been a great friend to the newspaper, and though we’ll miss interacting with him so often, he’s earned this opportunity, and obviously the school board at North Andrew has found themselves a good leader.

WHAT’S THE SHAPE OF THE WORLD

Remembering the Dream of Dr. King by steve tinnen

leader publisher emeritus

You know you’re growin’ older when... You realize that nothing good is happening on your phone past 8 p.m. **** On Aug. 28, 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke to an estimated 250,000 people who came to Washington, D.C. The speech was delivered from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. King’s impassioned voice was crucial to the U.S. Civil Rights Movement—equal rights for all citizens, regardless of the color of their skin. In 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed a bill creating a federal holiday to honor King for his commitment to equal rights and justice for all. It was observed for the first time on January 20, 1986, and named Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. In January 2000, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was officially observed in all 50 U.S. states. Since that day, much has been done, but obviously there is more to be accomplished. It’s up to us to make sure the ‘dream’ becomes a reality. Below, just like every year in The

Leader, you can find that moving speech.

**** “I am happy to join you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation. Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity. But one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later, the Negro is still languished in the corners of American society and finds himself an exile in his own land. And so, we’ve come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.

Jamey & D’Anna Honeycutt

Becca Balliet................. General Manager Brett Adkison...................................Editor Becca Giesken............... Advertising Rep. Jim Bonebrake............................Reporter Clint Dye....................................Reporter Connie Collins...........................Proofreader

In a sense, we’ve come to our nation’s capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men—yes, black men as well as white men—would be guaranteed the “unalienable rights” of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note, insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check; a check which has come back marked “insufficient funds.” But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. And so, we’ve come to cash this check, a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice. We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of Now. This is no time to engage in the

luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quicksands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God’s children. It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. This sweltering summer of the Negro’s legitimate discontent will not pass until there is an invigorating autumn of freedom and equality. Nineteen sixty-three is not an end, but a beginning. And those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual. And there will be neither rest nor tranquility in America until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights. The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges. But there is something that I must say to my people, who stand on the warm threshold ||Continued on A9

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Asking Rep. Hurlbert about school funding Representative Hurlbert, I’m concerned about state policies that divert taxpayer money to private religious schools. Note, I’m not opposed to religious schools. My lower-middle-class parents sacrificed so that my four siblings and I could attend Catholic schools from first grade through high school. It was a sizable investment. When my two kids were of school age in Plattsburg, parochial school was not a viable option. So they went through the Clinton County R-III district. I’m glad they did, because they received an excellent education. My son earned a doctorate from Yale University. He teaches religion and ethics at a Catholic

school outside Boston. Three of his daughters attend Catholic school, for which he pays a hefty amount of tuition. My daughter earned a Master’s degree from the University of Missouri and is a counselor at a Kansas hospital. Her two daughters also attend an expensive Catholic school. I’m sure my son and daughter would like to ease their tuition burdens. But they made the choice to educate their children in private schools and know it is their responsibility—not taxpayers’—to pay the price for that choice. I feel all parents should accept responsibility for their personal decisions on education. My greater concern is that “school choice” is really a Tro-

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER Publishers

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

Publisher Emeritus Steve Tinnen

MEMBER OF

Missouri Press Association

Northwest Missouri Press Association Plattsburg Chamber of Commerce Lathrop Chamber of Commerce Gower Chamber of Commerce

Advertising Representative for Missouri Press Service, Columbia, Mo.

jan horse for the destruction of the public school system in America. Some conservatives (I hope you are not one of them) openly admit that they believe that public schools are a failure, and worse, that they are liberal tools to indoctrinate children. Both of these views are ludicrous. But they have led to chronic underfunding of Missouri schools. Missouri already ranks near the bottom in nationwide rankings for teacher salaries. How much more do you want to cut? Public schools are the foundation on which our nation’s success rests. Chip away at that foundation and you will create a society of “haves” and “have nots” based on parents’ ability to pay for their

children’s private education. In rural areas such as Clinton County, the loss of even a few students to government-supported private or alternative schools would undercut the school district’s finances. Finally, Representative Hurlbert, you have a conflict of interest in this matter. As an employee of the Herzog Tomorrow Foundation, an organization that traffics in state money for private school scholarships, you should recuse yourself from legislative efforts to funnel taxpayer dollars to private schools. Respectfully, Jim Patrico Plattsburg

CONTINUING THE PLATTSBURG LEADER, LATHROP OPTIMIST AND RURAL REPORTER

Yearly Subscription Rates Clinton County.................................$52 Missouri.............................................$65 Out-of-State......................................$69 Change Of Address: postmaster, send address changes to: the clinton county leader, 102 e. maple, plattsburg, mo, 64477 What’s Your View? “Letters to the Editor” with a 400-word limit can be sent to the following: Email: leader@clintoncountyleader.com Mail: P.O. Box 333, Plattsburg, Mo, 64477

816-539-2111

DAVID RICE ATCHISON • “President for a Day”

Community

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

Thursday, January 18, 2024 • Page A5

Zane Myers named Foundation Chairman

Butch Mullenax

ard, and Autumn (Anthony) Garrett. His true joy in life was his nine grandchildren: Rebecka, Rylan, Dax, Asher, Sutton, Cambria, Camille, Colton, and Rowan. Butch was preceded in death by his father and four of his eight siblings. Butch was a master RV technician at multiple RV shops, including his own business, Campfire RV, for 40-plus years. He cherished his time playing with his doberman, Sky. He loved music and playing the guitar, and was always there to lend a helping hand.

er, Ray Everett Mick, and his son, Korey Ray Mick. Survivors include his wife, Rita Mick, of the home; sons, Barry Mick of Liberty, and Kirby Mick of Kearney, Missouri, among other family and friends. Services: 2 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 10, at the Bailey & Cox Family Funeral Service, Plattsburg.

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Send your headlines to leader@clintoncountyleader.com

Extension Offers Business Help

If you think you’re ready to pull the trigger on that business you’ve always wanted to start, the University of Missouri Extension can help. It’s presenting a free informational program from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 27, at its Clinton County offices at 100 S. Highway Y in Plattsburg. The program is both live and virtual, so if you can’t attend the meeting in person, you can get the information live via Zoom. You’ll learn step-bystep how to gauge if now is the best time to start. You’ll get information about the mechanics of making your

business legit. You’ll find out if your side gig could become a full-time job. Presenter Rebecca Lobina is Continuing Professional Education & Missouri SBDC Director at Northwest Missouri State University. She’ll discuss paperwork you’ll need, regulations and tax law that apply to your new business, and data that will help you make that big decision whether to go live with your dream. She’ll even give marketing information. Registration for the free program is required. For more information, call 816-649-8579.

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Saunders Ready to Celebrate 60

John and Jeannie Saunders will celebrate sixty years of marriage on January 26, 2024. The couple were married January 26, 1964, while on semester break of their senior year at the University of Missouri. Upon graduation, they moved to the family farm in Osborn, where they currently reside. They were blessed with two sons, Lyle, who reside in San Fransisco,

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vehicle for charitable giving, helping donors give to the causes they care about, while improving the quality of life for people in Northwest Missouri through philanthropy. Their mission is to promote and encourage charitable giving, help donors create a legacy, maintain donor intent, benefit charitable organizations in Northwest Missouri, ensure money earned here can remain here, and to provide efficient & effective financial management. Their Maximize NWMO effort helps communities make decisions to improve their quality of life now and into the future. The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri happily welcomes these accomplished individuals to board leadership and looks forward to what the upcoming years hold.

COMMUNITY

Wayne Mick

Wayne R. Mick, 85, of Kearney, Mo., died Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024. He was born on Sept. 25, 1938, in Kearney, Mo. ank youto1/16/24 1:01and PMEvelyn Page 37DaRay Mick vis Mick McGuire. Wayne was a graduate of Plattsburg High School, Class of 1955. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force. He was preceded in death by his parents, broth-

for two years. Mr. Myers and his wife Taylor currently live in Smithville with their daughter Elsie. The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri, Inc. is a 501 (c) (3) public charity serving 18 counties in Northwest Missouri. It serves as a

J

Butch Mullenax, 63, of Lawson, Mo., passed on January 12, 2024, from cancer. Visitation will be held 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 20, followed by a funeral service at Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, 214 N. Pennsylvania, Lawson, Mo. Butch was born to Robert Mullenax and Peggy Jeffries on December 16, 1960, in Jefferson City, Missouri. He is survived by his beloved wife of 21 years, Sherry Mullenax (Sharon). Butch took great pride in his three children: Amber (Ryan) England, Ryan How-

The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri is excited to announce the 2024 – 2026 Board Officers. Zane Myers, Chairman; Rachel Kagay, Vice-Chairman; Mitchell Bailey, 2nd Vice-Chairman. These officers serve a term of two years. Zane Myers is a lifelong Missouri resident and is a Northwest Missouri State University alumnus. He is originally from Princeton. Mr. Myers has served as President of the Plattsburg Rotary Club and is also a member of the Clinton County University of Missouri Extension Council. He is an Agency Sales Manager for the Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance with offices in Plattsburg and Smithville. Mr. Myers has served on The Community Foundation board since 2016. Before becoming Chairman of the Board this year Mr. Myers served as Vice-Chair

66

CLINTON COUNTY PUBLIC NOTICE PERSONAL PROPERTY ASSESSMENT The Clinton County Assessor’s Office has mailed out the 2024 personal property assessment notices. If you did not receive a notice and you lived in Clinton County January 1, 2024, you will need to call the office to get placed on the Tax Rolls. It is in your best interest to return as soon as possible to avoid any late filing penalties that are mandated by state law. Assessment forms are due back on March 1, 2024. Any questions, please call the office.

0-684-6931

California, and Mark, who is deceased, but leaves his wife, Stacie, and two sons, Calvin and Porter, who reside with their mother in Golden Valley, Minnesota. John and Jeannie will be hosting an open house at the American Legion Hall on Main Street in Stewartsville on Saturday, January 27, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Cards are welcome, but no gifts, please.

JAMESPORT BUILDERS

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Cindy Carter, County Assessor 816-539-3716 2x3 GHWP 1-9, 1-16-24 CCL 1-11, 1-18-24

2x5 RT & CCL starting 2-9-23

Page A6 • Thursday, January 18, 2024

Community

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

REGION

Storage Units Flourish in Southwest Clinton County by jim bonebrake leader reporter

Some time back, I spoke with Mr. Doug Lowe of Trimble regarding his concern about his town becoming the unofficial storage unit capital of the area. I contacted Mr. Lowe via telephone and had a long conversation with him regarding his concern about the number of storage units in and around Trimble. Mr. Lowe informed me that, at one time in the mid-2000s, he built some storage units outside of the Trimble city limits west of 169 Highway. He tried to get the City of Trimble to annex his property so it would be in the city limits. However,

he said the city did not want to spend the money necessary to do an annex petition to allow this to happen. As I understood it, the cost would have been roughly about $750. Mr. Lowe has since sold the storage units, and as I understand, the current owner is looking to expand the number of units there. This might have been a significant tax revenue loss for the City of Trimble. I spoke with city officials of both Trimble and Lathrop. Lathrop’s city administrator, Bob Burns, told me the city council was concerned about the number of storage units in the area and did not wish to see Lathrop become the storage unit cap-

ital of the area, so in 2017, they passed an ordinance prohibiting those types of business along the main thoroughfares of Lathrop (along Oak Street, which is the main street of the business district, and along 33 Highway from 116 Highway to the southern city limits. Trimble Mayor Mark Graham told me that Trimble had a fair amount of land in the city limits of town, along Highway 169, and city officials wanted to encourage businesses in town. Thus, at least two additional storage unit businesses have developed on the north edge of the city along Highway 169. Those two businesses

are Platinum—located at 801 N. 169 Highway with 371 total units—and Highway 169 Storage, with 100 units located at 701 N 169 Highway. There is also a storage unit business in the City of Paradise called Paradise Storage. It should also be noted that West Smithville Storage, located at 120 N. 169 Highway, currently has 67 units for rent. I would imagine, and it is logical, that the number of storage units in the area is possibly due to the two towns’ (Smithville and Trimble’s) location and proximity to Smithville Lake. Between the three businesses, there are 600 total storage

units in the area. It is unknown if additional storage unit businesses plan to build in or around the town of Trimble. I would guess that will depend on the number of people using Smithville Lake. With some of the recreational lakes in the middle and southern parts of the state being rather congested, Lake of the Ozarks is a perfect example, people in this area of the state may be looking for less-congested bodies of recreational waters to take advantage of and use. This story does not categorically prove or disprove the contention that Trimble has become the storage unit capital of the area. It does, however, prove that the City

of Trimble is willing to allow these units, or any other legitimate business, to build in their town. New businesses equate to additional tax revenues, which equates to additional services and amenities the town can offer. Even with economically difficult times, people still seek recreational locations to spend time and money, and Trimble is no exception to wanting to be a recipient of that additional revenue. The area north of Smithville along 169 Highway is growing and the traffic traveling on 169 has increased dramatically in the last two decades.

MoDOT Roadwork Planned in Northwest Missouri

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 Jan. 15-21. 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.

Buchanan County Route Y – CLOSED for a bridge replacement project at the south Bee Creek Bridge, through January 2024. A signed detour is in place. (Contractor: Phil-

lips Hardy, Inc.) More info: https://www.modot.org/buchanan-county-route-y-beecreek-bridge-replacements.

Gentry County Route YY – CLOSED for a bridge replacement project at the Bear Creek Bridge through April 2024. (Contractor: Gene Haile Excavating, Inc.) https:// w w w. m o d o t . o r g / a t c h i son-and-gentry-counties-bridge-replacements. Grundy County Route C – CLOSED at the Union Pacific Railroad crossing just west of Spickard for track repairs Jan. 19, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Holt County Route T – Permit/Utility work from Route 111 to

Route O through January 2024. Route U – Permit/Utility work from Route T to U.S. Route 59 through January 2024. Livingston County Route D – CLOSED until further notice at the Rattlesnake Creek Bridge due to deterioration. This bridge is included in the Northwest Bridge Bundle which may begin in Summer 2024. https://www.modot. org/northwest-missouri-design-build-bridge-bundle. Mercer County Route D – CLOSED at the Union Pacific Railroad crossing just west of Mill Grove for track repairs Jan. 18, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Locals make Dean’s List at University of Missouri COLUMBIA, MISSOURI — At the University of Missouri, we know that true leadership doesn’t just mean setting the standard. It means inspiring every member of our community to be at their best. During the fall 2023 semester, 11,617 undergraduate students made the dean’s list — an achievement earned through determination, drive and resiliency. Congratulations to the following students from Clinton County who made the list.

Plattsburg: Kaylie Dow, senior; Grace Liles, senior; Sean Moser, senior; Sylvia Schroeder, senior; Torrence Wade, junior. Lathrop: Grant Berg, senior; David Farr, freshman. Trimble: Nathaniel Kershaw, senior; Benjamin Kershaw, junior; Amelia Schneider, senior. Cameron: Carson Eshenroder, senior; Brianna Filley, junior; George McCollister, junior; Jada Rowe, senior; Claire Wenck.

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

Sports

Thursday, January 18, 2024 • Page A7

Plattsburg Hosts Annual Sam Martin Invitational by brett adkison leader editor

Despite the bitter cold and snow in recent days, wrestlers throughout the area braved the elements to compete at the two-day Sam Martin Invitational hosted by Plattsburg High School. A familiar rival even made the short trip for the event. Lathrop—originally slated to compete in Republic, Mo., on Saturday—sent both their boys and girls teams over, with the Mules finishing sixth in the boys tournament on Saturday with 127 team points. Odessa won the title with 319 points. Plattsburg was seventh at 111.5 points. The girls teams competed on Monday, January 15. KCI Conference foe Mid-Buchanan won the team championship with 204 points. Lathrop was fourth at 147 points and Plattsburg was ninth at 87 points. Garrett Beane continued to lead the Lathrop boys team with a first-place finish at 120 lbs., going 2-0 on the day. Four different Mules—Donovan Walters (106 lbs.), Jesse James (165 lbs.), Ryder Dalinghaus (175 lbs.) and Keaton Coots (144 lbs.)—each finished third in Plattsburg. Beau McAdams took fourth at 157 lbs., Gage DeShon was sixth at 138 lbs., Jacob Clark was seventh at 132 lbs. and Kyler Simon was 10th at 150 lbs.

(Above Left) Plattsburg Lady Tigers wrestler Kenlee Fish finished second at the Sam Martin Invitational. (Right) Dakota Rankin took first place at 285 lbs. in the boys tournament on Saturday. natalie huke | plattsburg high school

For Plattsburg, Dakota Rankin took first place at 285 lbs. on Saturday, going a perfect 4-0 with three pins. Corbin Allen (215 lbs.) and Logan Reynolds (165 lbs.) were both fourth. Brody McCartney (106 lbs.) and Hudson Jones (113 lbs.) held down the lower weights with a pair of fifth-place finishes. Rivers Jones (175 lbs.) and Caden McLallen (150 lbs.) both finished sixth, while Reece Dixon (144 lbs.) and Finley Fisher (157 lbs.) were seventh in their weight divisions. The girls took the mat on Monday, as Lathrop was led by a trio of grapplers ||Continued on A8

(Above Left) Plattsburg Lady Tigers wrestler Charleigh Mooney. (Right) Plattsburg Tigers wrestler Caden McLallen. natalie huke | plattsburg high school

EB boys on cusp of title, Lady Mules remain perfect by brett adkison leader editor

Between the holiday break and vicious winter weather, area basketball teams have had a stop-andgo start to the new year. That especially rings true for the East Buchanan boys basketball team, which

punched its ticket to the championship of the Benton Cardinal Classic last week with a pair of huge victories, just to see the title game postponed due to weather. The Bulldogs defeated Class 5 Van Horn in the opening round, 60-51, and followed it up with a 58-52

victory over Class 6 Central (St. Joseph) in the semifinals on Thursday, January 11. East Buchanan was originally slated to face Benton for the championship on Saturday, but the game was postponed to a later date. Against Van Horn, Isaiah Watkins poured in 25

points with five rebounds, while Gage Busby and Clark Scott each scored nine points with five rebounds. Ben Rhoad added six points and Aidan Smith dished out six assists. In East Buchanan’s win

against Lawson the previous week, Watkins put up 21 points with six assists, while Busby added 14 points. Scott scored 10 points with 10 rebounds and Rhoad scored eight points. During the holiday

break, the East Buchanan girls downed Maysville 5733 in the Shootout at Civic Arena in St. Joseph on December 22. Hilarry Elifrits led the team with 19 points while Piper Jacobs added ||Continued on A8

Page A8 • Thursday, January 18, 2024

Community

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

Wrestling,

Basketball, Continued from Page A7 11 points with seven steals. Freshman Kourtney Keling had a team-high six rebounds to go with four steals. Kaylynn Engnes added four assists. The Lady Bulldogs also started the new year off right with a 65-22 win against Stewartsville-Osborn on Thursday, January 4. Jacobs had a stellar night, scoring 25 points with nine rebounds, four assists and six steals. Laney Wilmes added 14 points. Keling had seven rebounds, while senior Zora Whitt had three assists and three steals. The next night, East Buchanan fell to Lawson in KCI Conference action, 57-41. Jacobs had 19

points with five rebounds and four steals. Elifrits had six rebounds and three steals. The weather also wreaked havoc on Lathrop’s Bill Burns Classic, but with its shootout format, the school was able to get in some of the event’s games last Thursday. The undefeated Lady Mules, ranked fourth in Class 3 in the latest state rankings, handed fellow state-ranked University Academy just their second loss of the season, 70-66. Senior Kaitlyn Morgan poured in 23 points with nine rebounds and six steals. Autum Nichols scored 19 points with seven rebounds. Ja-

cie Kassanavoid put up 16 points with nine rebounds, and senior Keylie Beane scored 10 points with four assists and six steals. The previous week, the Lady Mules earned a 58-32 win against rival Plattsburg. Kassanavoid scored 22 points with 12 rebounds, while Morgan scored 13 points and Beane scored 11 points with five steals. The Lathrop boys also notched a 61-41 win over University Academy last Thursday in the Bill Burns at LHS. Stats weren’t available as of press time. In the previous week’s loss to Plattsburg, 61-34, Brayden Pritchett led the

Mules with 13 points and nine rebounds, while Eli McKinley added eight points. During the holiday break, Lathrop fell to Higbee 66-57 during the 12 Courts of Christmas at the former Kemper Arena. Senior Kyle Morgan scored 27 points, while Pritchett scored 10 points and Lucas Quinn scored six points. Brody Spear added 13 rebounds. The Plattsburg boys fell in the Bill Burns Shootout to St. Pius, 78-67, in Lathrop last week. That was despite a career-high 53 points from senior Isaia Howard, who also had 14 rebounds with five steals and three blocks. Jaive-

on Grayson scored seven points with six rebounds. The previous week against Lathrop, Howard scored 33 points with 13 rebounds, while Rylan Langton scored 11 points and Tryston Miller scored 10 points. Grayson had 11 rebounds. The winter weather has been especially hard on the Plattsburg Lady Tigers, who haven’t played a game since their loss to Lathrop on January 5. They’ll look to get back on the court this week with scheduled road trips to Lexington and Lawson.

Continued from Page A7 who finished second in their respective weight classes—Gracie Rindom (145 lbs.), Jordan Diercks (120 lbs.) and Isabel Kidwell (125 lbs.). Ali Gonzalez was third at 115 lbs., Aubrey Schrunk was fourth at 100 lbs. and McKayla Knight took fourth at 135 lbs. Kala Piatt added an eight-place finish at 110 lbs. The Plattsburg Lady Tigers were led by Kenlee Fish (190 lbs.) and Allyson Dunivan (140 lbs.), who both went 4-1 on Monday to finish second in their respective classes. Tesha Traub took fifth at 145 lbs., Lillian Watchinski finished sixth at 105 lbs. and Aynjewel Jones placed ninth at 100 lbs.

Clinton County Middle East Buchanan High School Honor Roll - Second Quarter School Honor Roll Principal’s Honor Roll Sixth Grade Gabriella Alas, Cealy Bedwell, Addison Campbell, Philong Cloven, Ethan Corbett, Lauren Fish, Karlie Florence , Levi Harris, Quincey Howard , Easton Kellett , Ivan Li, Dawson Parra, Jay Chris Quijote, Jackson Reagan, Maci Reed, Brileigh Reeves, Madilyn Reilly , Gage Ryun, Angelene Sohm, Melody Strudgeon, Lilah Wade,Helena Welch, Lilly Wilkinson, Alyssa Williams, Isabella Wolfgeher. Seventh Grade Paisley Biggerstaff, Raylee Burns, Laila Capps , Mollie Gudde, Claire Kubicki, Cailyn McLallen, Brogan Noll, Shelbea Weller , Kiersten Westhoven, Brody Womack. Eighth Grade Mira Armstrong, Zander Carter, Tate Clifton, Chase Florence, Lillian Fuhr, Jace Gorham, Jayce Graybill, Audriana Grayson, Judson Harris, Isabella Hofmeister, Owen Hofmeister, Alivia Lloyd, Katelinn Murdock, Kasen Robertson, Colton Wilkinson. Honor Roll Sixth Grade Serenity Armstrong, Kaylee Bruns, Zoey Carter, Beckham Frank, Jackson

Freking, Kasen Good, Willow Gunn, Cameron Hayes, Ava Lane, Elyzza Lawrence, Caysen Martin, Erik May II, Elizabeth Middlebrook, Roxsi Mitchell, Riley Snook, Natalie Summy, Jenna Todd, Jayden Tyes, Braelan Walterscheidt, Drake Wilkinson Seventh Grade Evelynn Biston, Spencer Curtis, Kaydence Curtis, Eva Hartman, Valentino Hernandez, Jazmyn Jones, Parker Kellett, Keagan Kennedy, Bryson Matsukevich, Kourtneigh Miller, Saber Moran, John Murdock, Drayven Roberts, Daniela Sanchez Apodaca, JJ Talbott, Lexi Thomas. Eighth Grade Harmony Barr, Madyson Bentz, Markus Bilberry, Keaton Brown, Avery Burnett, Rylan Burnett, Nathan Curtis, Bailey Fuhr, Braydon Graham, Evelyn Harrell, Benjamin Harris, Zachary James, Aiden Jones, Isaiah Jones, Ellie Love, Brycen McClelland, Katherine Middlebrook, Coraline Moody, Halynn Moran, Wyatt Morris, Zane Morsbach, William O’Connor, Jessiah Odum-Berry, Brylee Pettipiece, Tallon Smidt, Hunter Smith, Naomie Smith, Kasen Waldron, Kael Watts.

HONOR ROLL The following students qualified for the second quarter honor roll. All students had to receive grades of B- or higher. Weighted classes were taken into consideration. Seniors – Beau Blanton, Mason Brown, Caroline Claycomb-Young, Alisyn Dittmar, Grace Grier, Aden Mortimore, Addisyn Musser, Tucker Musser, Gavin Rhode, Milla-Marie Smith, and Emery Taylor Juniors – Eli Brown, Andrew Collard, Landon DeLong, Robert Gross, Will Mathews, Karlee Maudlin, Lake McCray, Gus Mink, Alec Ottinger, Wyatt Palmer, Nathan Schilling, Aidan Smith, JoJo Smith, Maddux Thomas, Rachel Tillock, Isaiah Watkins, Braden Whiteley, and Laney Wilmes Sophomores – Phoenix Baugh, Ella Bilton, Beck Bodenhausen, Darcy Davis, Ann-Marie Edwards, Kylie Elliott, Kaylynn Engnes, Griffin Helsel, Alexis Kennedy, Hunter McIntire, Benjamin Rhoad, Nolan Rust, Clark Scott, Sierra Simmons, Carson Stephens, Layla

Watkins, and Liam Wilson Freshmen – Seneca Carr, Ava Hall, Piper Jacobs, Taten Lenz, Kemper Meyer, Paitin Parton, Chase Pickett, Aiden Pitts, Justin Routon, Landon Smith, Kamryn Werle, Cooper Whiteley, Peyton Wilmes, and Ashlyn Zwick

HIGH HONOR ROLL The following students qualified for the second quarter high honor roll. All students had to receive grades of A- or higher. Weighted classes were taken into consideration. Seniors – Gage Busby, Holly Caylor, Kylie Clark, Teddi Dixon, Hillary Elifrits, Angelina Engnes, Maddox Erich, Riley Everett, Wyatt Fisher, Nathaniel Fortney, Chloe Friess, Alexis Golden, Kelsey Herpel, Lola Hofmann, Ty Humbard, Aynjewel Jones, Anna Kenagy, Trevor Klein, Madison Mongeau, Rayven Moore, Emma Mujica, Ashton Roe, and Jenna Sonderegger Juniors – Abagail Barton, Emelia Boatwright, Ella Brown, Tibet Brown, Zamuel Brushwood, Heidi Church,

Parker Conroy, Dylan Davidson, Trey Johnson, Jacob King, Madisyn Miller, Reagan Mongeau, Elizabeth Newell, Coleson Orstad, Gavin Peak, Trey Pendleton, Emery Perry, Cayden Ray, Conner Raymond, Andrew Rhoad, Rilyn Sherwod, Jaden Torres, Tesha Traub, Gavin Utz, and Chloe Wheeler Sophomores – Myles Adams, Hayden Allen, Lewis Atha, Haleigh Croney, Kelsey Curp, Lana Curp, Franklin Duke, Finley Fisher, Sydney Gilliland, Caroline Houghton, Brooklynn Johnson, Allie Kelsey, Chase Klein, Brayden Lewis, Kaden Mujica, Ava Pflugradt, Natalya Sprague, and Chase Wilson Freshmen – Ethan Boatwright, Ostin Bullimore, Ellyonna Conard, Delaney Crump, Ryan Dicks, Kendyl Edwards, Ellie Jackson, Logan Jessen, Kourtney Keling, Kimmi Kohrs, Isabelle McComas, Madelyn McCoy, Clara Mink, Madeline Newell, Taylor Orstad, Wyatt Smith, and Kolten Woodside

FROM THE CAPITOL

Improving Children’s Mental Health by Protecting Them Online by rep. josh hurlbert eighth district state rep.

As Gen Z began to mature, sociologists began to notice some startling trends that they didn’t see among the Millennials, Gen X, or the Boomers before them. The teenage experience had been altered, and not in a good way. As NYU-Stern’s Jonathan Haidt notes: “Around 2013, rates of depression, anxiety, and self-harm began rising rapidly for American adolescents. Those born in and after 1996––Gen Z––have

the worst mental health of any generation for which we have data (going back to the “Greatest Generation,” born 1900 to 1925).” The data doesn’t stop with the hockey-stick curve uptick in anxiety and depression. CDC data shows that the majority of teen girls have persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness and almost a third have seriously contemplated suicide. Nonfatal self harm rates among preteen girls have tripled since 2010. It’s not just girls either - tragically, the number of preteen boys and girls

who have committed suicide has more than doubled since 2010. So what happened from 2010-2012 that so fundamentally altered the teenage experience? A New York University-led collaborative review of over a hundred studies done on the subject points to social media as the causal force. Beyond the behavioral harms the CDC is documenting, we’ve also seen studies that show the negative effects in opportunity costs (teens spend 7-9 hours of non-educational screen

time a day - not much time for anything else), in social deprivation (65% collapse in time spent with friends among kids 15-24), in sleep deprivation (frequent social media use linked to less and poorer sleep), and in attention fragmentation when kids are more concerned about what that notification was instead of what the teacher is saying. Perhaps not coincidentally, Missouri’s NAEP test scores peaked in 2009 and have been falling since. Recently, we’ve seen the effects of this constant

inundation and control of social media in the sudden surge of pro-Hamas rhetoric from Gen Z. When you only get your news from the Chinese-controlled algorithm on TikTok and no longer have the critical thinking skills necessary to sort through the propaganda to find the facts, it’s no wonder they’re demanding safe spaces, disrupting city council meetings, smashing and defacing Jewish businesses, and marching around holding signs with inconceivably vile rhetoric. As parents, we’re being

hemmed in and pressured from all sides by this societal tidal wave. If you ask almost any parent, they’ll agree that kids need less screen time - but the pressure from kids and their cool friends and media has worn parents down. As policymakers, we need to focus on empowering parents to take back control and start addressing the causal factors of social media-created anxiety and depression instead of just continuing to spend more tax dollars on the consequences. ||Continued on A12

Community

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

Remembering the Dream of Dr. King, Continued from Page A4 which leads into the palace of justice: In the process of gaining our rightful place, we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again, we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force. The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. And they have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom. We cannot walk alone. And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back. There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, “When will you be

satisfied?” We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities. We cannot be satisfied as long as the negro’s basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their self-hood and robbed of their dignity by signs stating: “For Whites Only.” We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until “justice rolls down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream.” I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. And some of you have come from areas where your quest, quest for freedom, left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered

by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering. Continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive. Go back to Mississippi, go back to Alabama, go back to South Carolina, go back to Georgia, go back to Louisiana, go back to the slums and ghettos of our northern cities, knowing that somehow this situation can and will be changed. Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends. And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” I have a dream that one day, on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood. I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with

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the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice. I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. I have a dream today! I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor—having his lips dripping with the words of “interposition” and “nullification”—one day right there in Alabama, little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers. I have a dream today! I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, and every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, “and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together.” This is our hope, and this is the faith that I go back to the South with. With this faith, we will be

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Thursday, January 18, 2024 • Page A9

able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith, we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith, we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day. And this will be the day— this will be the day when all of God’s children will be able to sing with new meaning: My country ‘tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the Pilgrim’s pride, From every mountainside, let freedom ring! And if America is to be a great nation, this must become true. And so let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire. Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York. Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania. Let freedom ring from the snow-capped Rockies of Colorado. Let freedom ring from the

curvaceous slopes of California. But not only that: Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia. Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee. Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi. From every mountainside, let freedom ring. And when this happens, and when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God’s children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual: Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!” **** Thank you and I’ll talk to you next week! Steve Tinnen stevetinnen@yahoo.com

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LEGALS

Page A10 • Thursday, January 18, 2024

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! CALL 816-539-2111 Classified Ad Rates $10 for up to 25 word or less (advance payment required) $.60 per word afer 25

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 --------------------------PAYING $75/ACRE FOR RENTAL PASTURE. Will consider any size and location. 816-288-9060 --------------------------WANTED FARM GROUND - I am looking for row crop ground to cash rent. Call Brad 816-2843689. --------------------------Kingsville Livestock Auction. Located 45 miles SE of Kansas City, MO. On 58 Hwy. East of Modern. 816.597.3331. www.kingsvillelivestock.com fwda --------------------------Summers Crop Services, LLC in Lathrop. Fertilizer & lime applications. Call Curtis Summers for a free quote. 816564-7116, 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. --------------------------Commercial and Office Space Available at 203 E. 9th St. in Trenton. Water and sewer provided. Call 660-359-3800. --------------------------For Rent - 2 Bedroom duplex with 1 car garage. All appliances, mowing and snow removal included. Renter pays all utilities. No pets or smokers allowed. References and background check required. No HUD. 1st month and deposit due. Call 660359-1442. --------------------------PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: “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 Attention customers! Trenton Hardware has all your home building & repair

PUBLIC HEARING James L Harding & Donna L Harding (Deceased) of Gower, MO have applied to the Clinton County Planning and Zoning Commission for a Minor Subdivide of a 20.63 acres parcel into 6.00 acre, and 14.63 acre lots. Rezone of both lots to AgB. Property is located on the South side of NW Harley Ln., East side of 169 Hwy., North of 116 Hwy., Gower, MO. Section 13; Township 55N; Range 33W. The Public Hearing will be held Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 7:00 pm in the Community Room in the basement of the Clinton County Courthouse. All interested parties should attend. Clinton County Planning and Zoning Tricia “P.J.” Knight - Administrator (1/11, 1/18/24)

supplies. If we ain't got it...you don't need it! Trenton Hardware, 901 Main, 660-359-3660. --------------------------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 --------------------------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 660635-0537 "Our Quality Of Service Is What Makes Us Different" --------------------------FREE TO GOOD HOME 14 week old Jack Russel/Poodle mix puppies. Contact Glen Miller 9614 NW Lakeview Rd. Hamilton, MO 64644 --------------------------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. --------------------------Replacement Parts; Accessories; Chemicals; Tool & equipment. www.tlauto supply.com ---------------------------

LOST/FOUND FOUND - 2 month old kitten. Orange and white coat. In Trimble. Call Tyler at 816-4080260. --------------------------Lost Truck Spare Tire evening of Friday, January 5 on A Highway between 272nd Street and 116 Highway (north of Lathrop). Please call Denny at 816-2841899. ---------------------------

EMPLOYMENT Sunnyview Nursing Home has job openings available for the following positions: RN, LPN, CNA, Dietary and Level I Med-

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

ication Aide. Please fill out a job application at 1311 East 28th Street, Trenton, MO 64683. E.O.E --------------------------Trenton Coca-Cola Bottling Co. is seeking to hire a full-time relief driver. Tuesday through Saturday schedule, with competitive pay and benefits. Chauffeur's license, good driving record and excellent customer service skills required. Please apply in person at 821 Industrial Dr., Trenton, MO, M-F 8am to 2pm. No phone calls please. --------------------------Help Wanted: Trenton Head Start Teacher, Full-time with the following benefits: Dental/ Health insurance/Life flight, Retirement, life insurance, sick leave, paid tuition to North Central Missouri College. Visit www.greenhillsheadstart.org for job description and application or call 660-359-2214. ---------------------------

SERVICES 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 ---------------------------

Carquest Auto Parts T & L Auto Supply, Inc., 1823 East 9th, Trenton, 359-2268, tlautosupply.com. Monday-Friday, 7-5, Saturday, 7:30-12. --------------------------Call MIDWEST MECHANICAL & rely on comfort. 800425-0976 or 485-

6611, Brian S. Israel, owner. For your heating & cooling needs. All Tax Credits & Rebates available! Geostar Geothermal Heat Pumps. Over 25 years experience. --------------------------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, 660-684-6404 --------------------------Call 816-539-2111 to place a classified

PUBLIC NOTICES Because The People Must Know

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF CLINTON COUNTY, MISSOURI AT PLATTSBURG PROBATE DIVISION Matter of Hazel May Johnson

No. 23CN-PR00092

NOTICE OF HEARING To all persons known or unknown who claim any interest as an heir or through an heir in the property of Hazel May Johnson, who died on the 27th day of July, 2017, residing at 6872 S.E. Horseshoe Drive, Holt, Missouri 64048: You are hereby notified than an Application has been filed in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Clinton County, Missouri by Jacqueline Jamie Meisner for the heirs of Hazel May Johnson and of their respective interests as such heirs in and with respect to all of the property owned by said deceased at the time of death including the following, to wit: All of Lot 4 Shugart Acres, Clinton County, Missouri. Parcel ID 1506.124003002010.000 known and numbered as 6872 S.E. Horseshoe Drive, Holt, Missouri 64048. Applicant's attorney is Thomas E. Hankins, whose business address is 6812 N. Oak, Suite 5, Gladstone, Missouri 64118. You are further notified that a hearing on said Application will be held in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Clinton County at the Courthouse, 207 North Main Street Plattsburg, MO 64477, on the 21st day of February, 2024, at 9 a.m. at which time evidence will be presented to the Court and at which time and place you are entitled to be present and to be heard. Should you fail therein, judgment may be entered in due course upon said Application. Date: January 4, 2024

/s/ Deana Morton Deputy Court Clerk (1/4, 1/11, 1/18, 1/25/24)

IN THE 43RD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT, CLINTON COUNTY, MISSOURI PROBATE DIVISION Case Number: 23CN-PR00090 In the Estate of LUETTA MAY CROWLEY, Deceased. Notice of Letters Testamentary Granted (Independent Administration) To All Persons Interested in the Estate of LUETTA MAY CROWLEY, Decedent:

(1/18/24) Dear Editor, Please be advised that a legal suit has been filed against James Todd Pyles in the Lancaster County, Nebraska Court under case number CI 23-12239. The plaintiff, Cesar Hernandez, alleges breach of contract. The suit pertains to breach of contract in re: the sale of a used 2004 Bobcat T250 skid loader on or about May 25,2023, in Lancaster County, Nebraska. Venue is proper in the County of Lancaster County, Nebraska, as the sale was consummated in Lincoln, Lancaster County, Nebraska. The Plaintiff seeks damages in the amount of Twenty-Three Thousand Dollars ($23,000). James Todd Pyles is hereby notified of the legal proceedings initiated against him, and he is expected to respond within the prescribed period as per the rules of the County Court Judge of Lancaster County, Nebraska. Failure to respond may result in a default judgment being entered against the defendant. For further details or to obtain a copy of the filed complaint, interested parties may contact Pirsch Legal Services, 24804 Country Club Rd., Ashland, NE 68003, 402-521-0930 or Reception@NebraskaBusiness.Legal. This notice is published in accordance with the legal requirements for public notification. We appreciate your prompt attention to this matter. Sincerely, Julie Brezenski secretary Pirsch Legal Services, PC, LLO Pyles's last known address 12608 SE Hwy 169, Gower, MO, 64454. (1/18, 1/25, 2/1/24)

On December 19, 2023, the last will of the decedent having been admitted to probate, THOMAS SHIRK was appointed the personal representative of the estate of Luetta May Crowley, 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: 5050 NW Manson Rd Kidder, MO 64649 The personal representative’s attorney’s name, business address and phone number is: Herman Joseph Ray Esry, Parman & Easterday 10740 Nall Ave STE 160 Overland Park, KS 66211 (913)385-9400 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: July 16, 2023 Date of first publication: December 28, 2023 /s/ Deana Morton 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. (12/28/23, 1/4, 1/11, 1/18/24)

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LEGALS

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

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

Sylvia Conner Sandra Wiedmaier All lands leased by Brandon Stevens Sloan Farms Hales Farms Redburns’ Lucky Star Ranch King Farm

TURNEY GOWER

Emmett O. Auxier Farm

3-24 3-24 3-24 10-24 10-24 11-25 10-24 10-24

LATHROP

David Adam 3-24 Kenneth Turner 5-24 Additional Areas Available: TRIMBLE

CALL (816) 539-2111 To be added to the No Hunting Directory

BUY - SELL TRADE -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 --------------------------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 h t t p : / / w w w. m i d states.net. 4100 Oklahoma Ave., Trenton, MO 64683. --------------------------WANTED!! Used & Abused Cars & Trucks. Highest prices paid! You Call - We Come Get It! FRONTIER AUTO & TRUCK PARTS

Thursday, January 18, 2024 • Page A11

(formerly Jim’s Auto Salvage) 145 Hwy. W., Trenton, 3593888. --------------------------*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. --------------------------PAGE TREE SERVICE 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! --------------------------JAMESPORT BUILDERS, 660684-6931, 32137 State Hwy 6, James-

port. POLE BARNS – GARAGES, Spray foam insulation. --------------------------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 --------------------------Eric Hauck Painting for all your painting needs. (660) 6541411. --------------------------Country Discount Store 19939 State Highway D Hamilton, MO. Dog food. Fresh Brown Eggs. Much, much more! Come check out our Specials!! CASH OR CHECK ONLY. ---------------------------

LOST/FOUND FOUND - 2 month old kitten. Orange and white coat. In Trimble. Call Tyler at 816-4080260. --------------------------Lost Truck Spare Tire evening of Friday, January 5 on A Highway between 272nd Street and 116 Highway (north of Lathrop). Please call Denny at 816-2841899. ---------------------------

AGRICULTURE Buying standing walnut, oak & cottonwood timber. Cash or on shares. Call Mike at 816-248-3091 --------------------------WANTED FARM GROUND - I am looking for row crop ground to cash rent. Call Brad 816-2843689. --------------------------Call816-539-2111 to place your classified ad today!

INVITATION TO BID Sealed proposals, addressed to: City of Gower 97 N 4th Street Gower, MO 64454 and endorsed “Proposal” for constructing Project TAP-9900(140), Gower Sidewalk Replacement, Gower, Missouri, will be received by the Gower City Hall until February 6, 2024 at 10:00 A.M. at the office of Gower City Hall, 97 N 4th Street, Gower, MO, 64454 and at that time will be publicly opened and read. The proposed work includes: Reconstruction of 1 block of sidewalk in Gower, Missouri. Proposed improvements include removal and replacement of existing sidewalks and associated features. Plans (half-size) and specifications may be inspected at the office of the City Clerk and complete instructions of bidders and proposal blanks may be obtained from Snyder & Associates, 802 Francis, St. Joseph, MO 64501 (816-364-5222) upon the receipt of Forty dollars ($40). Payment is non-refundable. Only contractors who have paid for plans and specifications and are listed on the plan holders list will be eligible to bid. A Pre-Bid conference will be held at the office of Gower City Hall, 97 N 4th Street, Gower, MO 64454 on January 23, 2024 at 10 A.M. Pre-Bid is not mandatory but is highly encouraged. Special Needs: If you have special needs addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act, please notify the Gower City Clerk, at (816) 424-6617 or through Missouri Relay System, TDD 7-1-1, at least five (5) working days prior to the bid opening you plan to attend. The wage rates applicable to this project have been predetermined as required by the law and are set forth in the bid proposal. When Federal wage rates are applicable and included, this contract is subject to the “Work Hours Act of 1962”, (P.L. 87-581;76 Stat. 357) and implementing regulations. On all federal-aid projects, the contractor’s attention is directed to Title 23, CFR, titled Buy America Requirements. Where steel or iron products are to be permanently incorporated into the contract work, steel and iron material shall be manufactured in the USA except for “minor usage” as described in the Missouri Standard Specifications for Highway Construction-2020., Section 106.9. The City of Gower hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, ancestry, or national origin in consideration for an award. Missouri Law, 292.675 RSMO, requires the awarded Contractor and its subcontractor(s) to provide a ten-hour occupational safety and health administration (OSHA) construction safety program (or a similar program approved by the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations as a qualified substitute) for their on-site employees (laborers, workmen, drivers, equipment operator, and craftsmen) who have not previously completed such a program and are directly engaged in actual construction of the improvement (or working at a nearby or adjacent facility used for construction of the improvement). The awarded Contractor and its subcontractor(s) shall require all such employees to complete this ten-hour program, pursuant to 292.675 RSMO, unless they hold documentation on their prior completion of said program. Penalties for non-compliance include Contractor forfeiture to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission in the amount of $2,500, plus $100 per Contractor and sub-contractor employee for each calendar day such employee is employed beyond the elapsed time period for required program completion under 292.675 RSMO. The project will be awarded to the lowest, responsive, responsible bidder. Section 102.2 of the Missouri Standard Specifications for Highway Construction 2023 will be waived for this project. Proposals must be on forms provided in the Specifications and Contract Documents. The right is reserved to reject any or all bids. A DBE goal of 5% has been established for this project.

CITY OF GOWER Date: 01/10/2024

(1/18/24)

Community

Page A12 • Thursday, January 18, 2024

THE CLINTON COUNTY LEADER

East Buchanan Courtwarming

Congratulations to this year’s candidates! (Above Left) Kylie Clark and Blake Pryor. (Center) Hilarry Elifrits and Aiden Rhoad. (Right) Jenna Sonderegger and Cransten Baugh. (Left) Holly Caylor and Isaiah Watkins. The royalty were Gage Busby and Zora Whitt (front page).

Rep. Josh Hurlbert, Continued from Page A8

This is why I took some consequences. Let’s follow take the next step alongof the best practices we’re Utah’s lead and at least re- side Arkansas, Louisiana, seeing pass in other states quire parental consent for Mississippi, Montana, Texand introduced HB 2157. Missouri minor social media as, Utah, and Virginia and This bill tackles the mental accounts. You, the parent, require age verification health crisis our kids are fac- should be in charge of where through a third-party upload photo courtesy of east buchanan c-i schools ing in four distinct pieces of your kid spends their screen of an ID. action: time. Technology is always Require K-12 schools Hold social media com- a disruptor but generally a to ban cell phone use during panies liable for addictive positive force. Social media instructional time. This is a applications. A Wall Street can do so much good when no-brainer and something Journal review of whis- you get above the seedy unmany school districts are tleblower documents shows derbelly. However, the unalready putting into policy. that Facebook knew of the intended consequences of But the policies are uneven- harm Instagram is creating minors on social media are ly enforced and pit teachers in teenage mental health. destroying children’s futures against each other as some Let’s empower the attorney by wrecking their mental choose to enforce policies general and parents to take health, perhaps irreversibly. and others do not. I’m will- action against social media I believe it is time we protect ing to make the State play companies that are not re- Missouri children’s mental the role of bad guy and re- sponsive to the more addic- health by taking these comquire school districts create tive features of their applica- mon sense steps and re-emand enforce no-phone poli- tions. powering parents by passing cies. The early results across Require age verifica- HB 2157. the nation have been posi- tion before accessing porIt is an honor and a tive. nographic websites. Por- privilege to serve Northwest Require parental con- nography has been shown Missouri in the Missouri sent on social media ac- to cause “various long-term House of Representatives. counts. According to the deleterious effects on sexual Please do not hesitate to Federal Trade Commission, maturation, sexual behav- contact me at 573-751-0246 no one under the age of 13 ior, Internet addiction, and or at Josh.Hurlbert@house. CCL Advertising copy.qxp_CCL - The Paper ads 1/15/24 5:05 PM Page 46 is allowed to have a social overall personality devel- mo.gov if there is anything media account. However, opment.” The average age I can do for you, or stop by this measure is not enforced of initial pornographic con- my office in Room 406-B if and if the social media com- sumption is 12 and 73% of you are ever in the Capitol. pany doesn’t know you’re teenagers report watching under 13, then there are no online pornography. Let’s

Happiness works here. You deserve a career you love, where your talents improve people’s lives while advancing your own. A place where the mission provides a strong sense of purpose and unity – and your team makes you feel inspired, engaged and valued. At Liberty Hospital and Clinics, providing a premier patient experience starts with giving you a premier career experience. What we have here is something special, and you’ve found where you belong. Learn more at libertyhospital.org/careers.

Restoring America the Beautiful!

Thursday, Jan. 25th at 6 p.m. (Doors open at 5:30) Plattsburg 4H Building 251 E. 116 Highway Discussions of current Local, State, Federal issues

Come join us to start out the year with a chili/soup dinner Learn more about the U.S. Constitution

3x5 CCL 1-18-24 GHWP 1-23-24