Lathrop resident and solder with the United States Army, Sgt. Issac Jackson was recently killed while serving his country in Afghanistan.

At press time, his wife, Kristen Jackson, was on her way to Dover, Del. To accompany Issac’s remains.

She is currently employed a BankLiberty in Plattsburg. The Jacksons have a 1½ year old son and a baby girl on the way, due on December 23, 2009.

Issac was a 2001 graduate of Lathrop High School.

His mother and step-father, Christal and Ed Kariker live in Plattsburg.

Arrangements are pending with Park Lawn Funeral Home in Lathrop.

KCI Conference Standings
1, Lathrop............6-0 (8-0)
2. Mid-Buch........5-1 (7-1)
3. Lawson............5-1 (6-2)
4. Hamilton..........3-3 (4-4)
5. East Buch........2-4 (3-5)
6. N. Platte..........2-4 (2-6)
7. Plattsburg........1-5 (3-5)
8. W. Platte..........0-6 (1-7)

A. Lathrop wins the conference outright with a win against East Buchanan
B. Lathrop and Mid-Buchanan share the title if Lathrop loses and Mid-Buchanan wins against Lawson
C. Lathrop and Lawson share the title if Lathrop loses and Lawson wins against Mid-Buchanan

Class 2, District 8 Standings
1. Maryville............54.65 points (6-1)
2. Lathrop...............48.27 points (8-0)
3. Lawson...............39.38 points (6-2)
4. Richmond...........38.19 points (5-3)
5. Lexington...........37.18 points (5-3)
6. Brookfield..........23.45 points (2-6)
7. Trenton..............18.96 points (1-7)
8. Christian............13.15 points (0-6)

Important Head-to-Head Jumps
• Lathrop defeated Lawson in regular season
• Richmond and Lexington play tonight
• Lexington defeated Trenton in the regular season

Class 1, District 7 Standings
1. Mid-Buchanan........44.57 points (7-1)
2. Hamilton................33.09 points (4-4)
3. Plattsburg...............32.07 points (3-5)
4. East Buchanan.......28.94 points (3-5)
5. North Platte...........24.75 points (2-6)
6. West Platte.............20.96 points (1-7)
7. Maysville...............19.48 points (1-7)
8. Polo.......................14.14 points (0-8)

Important Head-to-Head Jumps
• Hamilton beat Plattsburg
• East Buchanan beat Plattsburg
• North Platte beat East Buchanan
• Plattsburg beat North Platte
• North Platte beat West Platte
• Maysville beat Polo

Leader Editor Brett Adkison's KCI Power Rankings
1. Lathrop, 8-0, LW: 1 – Lathrop's last KCI Conference loss came more than two years ago, on the road, against East Buchanan, 34-26.

2. Mid-Buchanan, 7-1, LW: 2 – If you throw out the Lathrop game, the Dragons have allowed just 12 points in seven games this year.

3. Lawson, 6-2, LW: 3 – Tonight's game against Mid-Buchanan will go a long way in determining whether Lawson lands on the Maryville or Lathrop side of the bracket.

4. Hamilton, 4-4, LW: 4 – A win against North Platte would solidify their spot at #2 in the district standings.

5. North Platte, 2-6, LW: 7 – Two wins in the last three weeks gives the Panthers some momentum in a midfield that feels like its stuck in neutral.

6. East Buchanan, 3-5, LW: 5 – Bouncing back this from the North Platte loss could be difficult as they welcome state-ranked Lathrop to town.

7. Plattsburg, 3-5, LW: 6 – The Tigers have lost six straight games but the next weeks will define the success of this program in the first year under Coach Rosenbaum.

8. West Platte, 1-7, LW: 8 – West Platte will have a chance to stop a seven-game skid against Plattsburg.


Leader Reporter Clint Dye's KCI Conference Power Rankings
1. Lathrop (8-0) LW1 – Another week another KCI Conference victory, this time it was over the rival Plattsburg Tigers. This week they can secure back-to-back outright KCI Conference Titles with a victory over a struggling East Buchanan team. Mules have pretty much wrapped up the number two seed in the Missouri Class 2 District 8 tournament as they trail Maryville by 6 points.

2. Mid-Buchanan (7-1) LW2 – No chance of a let down or look past game last week as the Dragons easily dispatched West Platte and picked up their second shut out in a row. Spotlight shines bright on Faucett this week as the Dragons host Lawson in the KCI Conference Game of the Week. Dragons sit comfortably at the top of the Missouri Class 1 District 7 standings.

3. Lawson (6-2) LW3 – Cardinals handled Hamilton a week ago, now turn their focus to Mid-Buchanan. Biggest game within the KCI this Friday will prove who the second-best team in the conference is behind Lathrop. Cardinals currently sit third in the Missouri Class 2 District 8 standings behind Maryville and Lathrop.

4. Hamilton (4-4) LW4 – Hornets fell to Lawson last week; their four losses were to teams with a total of 4 losses between them. This week is a big game against a North Platte team playing their best football. Hornets currently sit second in the Missouri Class 1 District 7 standings just ahead of Plattsburg, East Buchanan and North Platte.

5. North Platte (2-6) LW7 – Winners of two of their last three games the Panthers make a big jump over East Buchanan, who they defeated last week and Plattsburg who have lost five in a row. Panthers currently sit at the number five seed in the Missouri Class 1 District 7 standings, but a lot can change in that District’s middle ground after this final week.

6. East Buchanan (3-5) LW5 – Bulldogs are in unchartered territory as they suffered their third loss in a row last week. No favors in scheduling as this week they host the Lathrop Mules. Currently sitting at number four in the Missouri Class 1 District 7 standings, their fate on where they play in the first round of Districts may be out of their hands.

7. Plattsburg (3-5) LW6 – Tigers were shutout for the second week in a row last week against Lathrop. Will look to end five game skid this Friday at home against West Platte. Currently sitting at number three in the Missouri Class 1 District 7 standings, Tigers could still end up hosting a District despite the long losing streak.

8. West Platte (1-7) LW8 – Fell to Mid-Buchanan last week, will look to play spoiler when it comes to Plattsburg possibly getting a home district game as they travel to play the Tigers this week. Blue Jays currently sit at the six spot in the Missouri Class 1 District 7 standings.

Miss Betty Horn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Horn, was crowned the 1969-70 East Buchanan Homecoming Queen at the football game Friday night.

Her attendants were: Rita Walkup, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Walkup; Rita Dreyer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Dreyer; Beth Rowland, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Willard Rowland; and Regina West, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack West.

The PHS drama class will be presenting a play this Saturday, October 28 at 7:30 p.m. in the PHS gym. Pictured above is the cast, front row, left to right: Lesley Cooksey, Lady Marguret Wargrave; Lori Portell, Martha Rogers; Heather Nicholas, Emily Brent; Christa Fox, Sara Narracott. Back row: Brian Neill, William Blore; Steve Butler, Philip Lombard; Trina Landreth, Ethel Rogers; Brenda Couch, Victoria Armstrong; Nissa Bartlett, Vera Claythorne.

Not pictured, John Summers, General Mackenzie; James Kennedy, Anthony Marston; Ami Clampit, Peg Narracott

With Clinton County’s sales tax figures still lagging behind average and the continuing need to house prisoners outside the antiqued confines of the Clinton County Jail, the Clinton County Commissioners have been due for some good news for quite some time. Though small in contrast to the problems that the County currently faces, they received such news when they convened on Tuesday, October 20.

The Commissioners began the day by meeting with representatives of investment banking firm Oppenheimer, who informed the Commission that Clinton County, according to information they had received from Moody Investment Services in Chicago, would receive a General Obligation bond credit rating in the low “A” range (based on the academic grading scale). This was news well-received by the Commissioners, who are still in the process of determining the best possible avenue in to which fund a new Clinton County Jail.

“I was delighted to see that we got an ‘A’ rating,” said Clinton County Presiding Commissioner Randall Relford. “Certainly anytime you get an ‘A’ rating from Moody, when you sell your bonds you get a better interest rate and you get more people that are anxious to purchase those bonds.”

In attendance for the meeting were Michael Short and Karolyn Cline, senior directors for Oppenheimer, Janet Garms, legal representation for Oppenheimer, and Jayson Watkins, Clinton County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney. Oppenheimer had been charged with the task of examining the County’s financial statements in connection with planning for the new jail project and submitted their findings to the Commissioners on Tuesday morning.

The project model used by Oppenheimer throughout the examination process was for a $6 million detention facility, which, according to the report, would require an annual debt service of $460,000 over a 20-year period to pay off the costs. The report also states a fact well-known by those close to the issue: Clinton County cannot pay this kind of annual debt service without some new source of revenue. Additionally, the County may not be able to afford the operating costs of a new facility without a dedicated revenue source.

The report also determined the two most likely revenue sources for the project, which were, as previously anticipated by the Commission, a property tax and/or a law enforcement sales tax.

Oppenheimer’s report also listed several recommendations on what steps the County should proceed with in the near future. The first step that they recommended the Commissioners take is the solidification of a projected cost estimation by meeting again with project architects (Treanor Architects, Kansas City). The Commissioners hope to do this in the coming week.

It was also recommended that the County request voter approval for the issuance of General Obligation bonds on the April 2010 ballot and establish an estimated operational cost for the facility. If the County feels as tough a law enforcement sales tax would not generate enough revenue to cover both annual debt service and the operational costs, the report recommends that the County request both a property tax and a smaller sales tax. In this case, the property tax would cover the debt service and the sales tax would cover operation costs.

“The good news is that it is just what we had talked about all along.” said Commissioner Relford. “It’s going to take a sales tax plus a property tax would go off as soon as the bonds are retired and that’s goo news for the taxpayers. The point is we have to do something. We have to develop a program to take care of the people that have violated the laws in Clinton County and the State of Missouri that are in our borders. It’s a must that we have a facility that we can put these prisoners in instead of shipping them other places and seeing that money going out of the county. Currently, we are cutting out of the Sheriff’s budget everyday when we have to house prisoners in another prison instead here on site.”

As of Tuesday, October 20, the Commissioners had yet to schedule a meeting with Treanor Architects, but hoped to host the meeting as soon as Tuesday, October 27. From there, the Commissioners also stated their interest in developing a program and venturing out into the County with issue, in hopes of educating residents on the important aspects of the anticipated ballot issue.

“It is a popular issue?” Relford rhetorically asked about the jail issue. “More than likely it isn’t, but we have to do something for the safety and wellbeing of this County.”

On Thursday, October 15, the Commissioners heard an appeal form George and Les DeLapp, who a month earlier were denied a special use permit by the Clinton County Planning and Zoning Commission, which would have allowed them to operate a shooting range on their property at 106168 NE Burr Road in Osborn, Mo.

The DeLapps presented the same issue to the Clinton County Commissioner on Thursday, with the addition of a few changes to their originally proposed plan. Perhaps the biggest of the change in the orientation of the rang itself. Originally, the men planned to have shooters aiming to the north when they fired. But there was an issue with that direction, as house was located to the north of the proposed location. To eliminate the issue the proposed rang is now planned to face to the west.

George DeLapp state during the meeting that there would be between 20 and 25 possible for the firing of high-powered rifles, while there will a total of between 80 and 90 positions for handguns and small-body. He also stated that the range itself will not be for profit, but other sales such as ammunition, gear and concessions could potentially be used in the future to turn a profit off of the facility.

George further stated during the meeting that the facility would be open to both individuals and members of law enforcement. Hi informed the Commission that there would be no shooting at night unless requested by a law enforcement agency and that guns suck as a .50-caliber rifle would not be allowed for potential safety reasons.

At the end of the meeting the Commissioners that they would take some time to discuss and think further about the issue. As of Tuesday, October 20, they have yet to make a decision.

The East Buchanan Lady Bulldogs will continue their historic season in the state playoffs. The softball team defeated rival Mid-Buchanan to win the Class 2, District 15 championship at Mid-Buchanan High School on Friday, October 18. With the victory, East Buchanan advanced to the state sectionals, where they will host District 16 champion Marceline on Wednesday, October 23, at 5 p.m. 

Clint Dye's Power Ranking – Leader Reporter

1. Lathrop (7-0) LW1 – Tell me if you heard this before, Mules easily handled their KCI Conference foe last week. Each week they prove without a shadow doubt that they are the bench mark in the KCI. Up next the 99th meeting between them and bitter rival Plattsburg.

2. Mid-Buchanan (6-1) LW2 – Dragons blanked a struggling Plattsburg team a week ago 42-0. This week they travel to play West Platte. Regular season finale against Lawson looms large to see who the second-best team in the KCI truly is.

3. Lawson (5-2) LW3 – Took care of business in what could have been a trap game against East Buchanan last week. This week will be another tough contest at home against Hamilton before a big-time showdown with Mid-Buchanan the following week.

4. Hamilton (4-3) LW4 – After losing two in a row the Hornets have rattled off back-to-back wins to get above .500 again. This week they have a stiff test hosting Lawson.

5. East Buchanan (3-4) LW5 – Lost back-to-back games in the regular season for the first time since 2016. Will look to right the ship this Friday when they travel to North Platte.

6. Plattsburg (3-4) LW6 – After opening the season 3-0 Tigers find themselves in a four-game skid currently. Offense is struggling to find the end zone having been held under 10 points in all four of their losses. Unfortunately for the Tigers, Lathrop comes calling this week in the 99th installment of the Seven Mile Rivalry.

7. North Platte (1-6) LW7 – Panthers moral victory last week was avoiding a shutout to Lathrop. This week they host an East Buchanan team trying to get back on track. Panthers will need to play their best game to pull off the upset.

8. West Platte (1-6) LW8 – Gave a Hamilton a fight early on last week just couldn’t complete the upset. Next up a Mid-Buchanan team zeroing in on getting into post season form.



Brett Adkison's Power Rankings – Leader Editor

1. Lathrop (7-0, 5-0 KCI. Previously: 1) – A win this week gives the Mules a share of the KCI Conference championship, while two wins would give them the outright conference championship for the second year in a row.

2. Mid-Buchanan (6-1, 4-1 KCI. Previously: 3) – The Dragons now have four shutouts on the season and are allowing less than two points per game when they're not facing Lathrop. That Week 9 tilt against Lawson looms as perhaps the most interesting KCI match-up of the entire season.

3. Lawson (5-2, 4-1 KCI. Previously: 2) – The Cardinals are sitting fourth in the Missouri Class 2, District 8 standings and will look to lock up a home game with solid showings the next two weeks.

4. Hamilton (4-3, 3-2 KCI. Previously: 4) – Hamilton will need to outpace East Buchanan the last two weeks to wrap up the two spot in Class 1, District 7 standings.

5. East Buchanan (3-4, 2-3 KCI. Previously: 5) – Similarly, the Bulldogs are fourth in the C1D7 standings. By virtue of the win against Plattsburg, they'd bump to three, but a win over North Platte this week would expand the cushion.

6. Plattsburg (3-4, 1-4 KCI. Previously: 6) – The Tigers face Lathrop in their 99th rivalry game this week, putting a cap on a hellacious five-week stretch. But more importantly, Plattsburg will need a good showing against West Platte the final week to lock down a home game in the first round.

7. North Platte (1-6, 1-4 KCI. Previously: 7) – Will have a chance to make splash in the KCI Conference with games against East Buchanan and Penney coming up.

8. West Platte (1-6, 0-5 KCI. Previously: 8) – After a season-opening victory, West Platte has dropped their last six. Plattsburg in Week 9 will be an important battle in race for a home game.

Editor’s note:
Last week, Tuesday, October 14, at 7:00 p.m. the greatest sports event of the year took place, not at the Mets’ stadium in New York nor the Chiefs’ stadium in Kansas City, but on the PHS football field. It was here the Super Star Seniors (girls) and the Junior Junkies (girls) clashed in a grueling “Powder Puff” football game.

In spite of the cumbersome pads and helmets, both teams played a sensational game. The first and second quarters were dominated by the seniors. Astounding No. 21, Vicki Charles, carried the pigskin in for two TD’s, one in each quarter. But, both touchdowns were nullified by penalties.

After halftime the juniors tried to come back with a “sneaky” on side kick. However, the seniors recovered. The drive resulted in a touchdown by Alice Kirk. The extra point failed leaving the score 6-0. Yet, Wanda Edson came back a few plays later with a 41 yard TD run for the juniors. The point after failed – score 6-6. There was one more touchdown in the third quarter. This was made by speedy Linda May, a senior. Speedy Linda also ran in for the extra point boosting the Super Star’s score to 14-6.


The fourth quarter was full of hard running and great tackles. The junior’s pilot, Gloria Grayson, took the ball 50 yards on a quarterback sneak for a touchdown. The extra point attempt was in vain. On this play the juniors lost their power and strength, Juanita Kenslow, due to muscle cramps in the leg. However, the juniors showed “pro play” when they attempted two passes, one of which was completed.

The seniors strove once more to their goal. The third time was a charm for No. 21, Vicki Charles. Finally, one of her touchdowns rang up six points. The point after attempt failed.

The amazing action stopped with the Super Stars 20 – Junior junkies 12.
Everyone played a great game. Patti King handled her Super Stars well. Gloria Grayson and Wanda Edson showed great marksmanship too. However, the editor salutes No. 21 Vicki Charles, as “player of the game” for her running, determination, and blood shot eyes.

First grade students at East Buchanan Elementary school met Highway Patrol Officer Overfelt on Monday, October 9.

Officer Overfelt talked to students about his job. He told them he was there to help and keep them safe. He demonstrated how he used handcuffs and told the students the handcuffs were made for use on adults and not young children.

Students also learned several safety tips, from saying “no” to strangers to which side of the street they should walk on and ride their bikes.

Officer Overfelt ended his presentation with a trip outside to see his car. Students enjoyed sitting in the driver’s seat and seeing how all the lights were operated.

The 17th Annual Living History Festival and Small Farmers Reunion was held at the Lathrop Antique Showgrounds on Friday, October 9, through Sunday, October 11. It was a cold weekend for the event, but that didn’t stop exhibitors from showing their projects and local students from learning about living in the past.

The Clinton County Planning and Zoning Board of Adjustments spent Friday evening, October 11, listening to  request for a zoning variance from Stony and Jamie Martin, who own five lots in the Lake Arrowhead area. They want to place a manufactured home on the adjoined lots.  There were at least 25 people in attendance, all supportive of the Martins’ request. There was no opposition expressed during the meeting.

The couple, wanting to live in Lake Arrowhead upon retirement, ran into a problem because the residential zoning codes were changed earlier in 2019, requiring a minimum of five acres for a home to be built or placed.

According to Planning and Zoning Administrator Elle Stoneridge, the couple appeared before the Clinton County Commissioners in late August or early September to see about their request to place a manufactured home on the lots they had purchased, but were told the minimum amount of land required was five acres, and they would need to go before the zoning board of adjustments to plead their case and get a variance.

The Martins contend they were originally told by both Stoneridge and the previous zoning administrator Tina Adair that they needed five lots to build or place a manufactured home on. That is why they purchased two additional lots connected to their original three lots. Stoneridge confirmed that when she spoke with Mrs. Martin in early August she did indeed say five lots, but within a couple weeks realized her mistake and tried to contact the Martins. She left a message telling them of her mistake – that five acres were needed, not five lots. Mrs. Stoneridge became the administrator in August.

Lake Arrowhead was originally developed as a planned district with lots designed for recreational and weekend camping, not permanent homes. Last December, the zoning board held a public hearing at Plattsburg High School and for more than two hours listened to both proponents and opponents about possibly rezoning the lake from a planned district to residential. This public hearing was requested by the Clinton County Commission, not by landowners or residents of the lake. Residents on both sides were very passionate about their respective positions on rezoning. Ultimately, the zoning board voted to send the request back to the commission for additional consideration.

Sometime this past January, the county commission voted to rezone the lake to residential with no further hearings or meetings of which the residents were aware.

This is where the Martins’ issue appeared. Residential rezoning requires a minimum of five acres in order to build or place a home. In the lake area, the average lot size would require at least 20 lots in order to have the necessary five acres before a home could be built or placed on the property and have an acceptable septic system. The Martins’ five lots totaled just more than one acre.

Board Chairman John Kilgore opened the adjustment hearing by going over the rules, but he also added that this request would set a precedent for residential rezoning, and the job of the board is to ensure that no harm would be done to other properties in the area or the county, in general.

Many of the residents attending the meeting wished to address the board, and all voiced support of the Martins’ request for the variance. A number of those who spoke stated the Martins were good people and kept their lots in good shape and they were the type of people they wanted to see move into the area. At least two stated they lived in Lake Arrowhead full time, had approved septic systems and had encountered no issues with their systems (it should be noted that these properties were grandfathered in because they were built prior to the new zoning designation to residential earlier in the year).

Several board members expressed concerns, one being that it would set a precedent, and second there was no morphology report (required) to be considered.

Mr. Martin addressed the concern regarding the morphology reports and stated he did not want to throw good money after bad and if they were not granted a variance, he did not want to spend the $2,000 or so required to get the study done.

“If we send your request to the commissioners with our recommendation for approval, will you get a morphology test done and will you comply with that recommendation even if it requires one of the most expensive septic systems, known as a drip system which can cost as much as $20,000?” asked Kilgore.

Both Martins agreed and reiterated that they wished to establish their retirement home on these lots and retire in Lake Arrowhead. After nearly an hour and a half of public input and board discussion, the board voted to approve the Martins’ variance request with the stipulation that it would be rescinded if the Martins did not get a morphology test done and comply with the results of that finding.

More than one board member expressed the opinion that the lake’s homeowners’ association needed to consider strongly incorporating the area into a town or village so they could better control their own destinies.

After the vote to send the Martins’ request to the commissioners with the recommendation for approval, the crowd applauded and cheered loudly and the Martins both thanked all five board members personally for their decision.

October 14

• ‘Discovery Day’ at the KC Renaissance Festival; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. rain or shine.
• Sacks to Mats from 6:30-8 p.m.  at the TriCounty Ambulance, 1703 W. 116 Hwy., Plattsburg.

October 15

• Master Gardeners’ meeting, at the Clinton County Youth Building, 251 E MO-116, Plattsburg, at 6:30 p.m. The public is welcome.

October 16

• The Gathering Place (Senior Center) Fundraiser at the parking lot of Platte Valley Bank in Plattsburg. Free will donation meal and entertainment (provided by PVB). Entertainment from 6-7:30 p.m.

October 17

• Clinton County Historical Society meeting at the Museum, begins at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome to join. Guest speaker  from Lathrop to present the history of the mule industry.

October 18-19

• Wild West Haunted Hayrides from 6:30-11 p.m., first hayride at 7 p.m. at the Lathrop Antique Show Grounds. Part of the proceeds benefit: 2 Love Community Support And Equine Assisted Program and Lathrop Antique.

October 19

• Julia’s Warriors Run for Hope at Smithville High School; 5K begins at 8 a.m.; 1-mile walk begins at 8:05 a.m. Register online at juliaswarriorsrunforhope.com/register-donate.php
• Watkins Mill Public Safety Fair and Trunk-or-Treat at Watkins Woolen Mill State Park and State Historic Site, begins at 11 a.m.
• October Family Farm Day at Orrick Acres, 10605 NE Davis Rd., Easton; from 1-5 p.m. Crafts, petting zoo, hay rides,  horseback ride, bounce house and more!
• Family Day at the Farm, at Shatto Milk Company. Begins at 10 a.m. Tour the farm, pet baby calves, sample shatto products and learn the process of making cheese.
• Fall Family Fun at Perkins Park in Plattsburg, from 6-9 p.m. Hayrides, costume contest for kids, s’mores and a movie after dark! Sponsored by Broadway United Methodist Church.
  

October 20

• Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser for the Lawson Baby Grace at Lawson United Methodist Church from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
  

Mules win in Lawson for first time since ‘93
The Lathrop Mules football team traveled to Lawson on Friday, October 4, and defeated the rival Cardinals, 38-13. Not only did the win put Lathrop in the driver’s seat of the KCI Conference title race, it was also the first time Lathrop had won in Lawson since 1993. (Above) Lathrop senior Caden Rardon broke loose for a 56-yard touchdown  run late in the game Friday to put Lathrop’s win on ice.

South Oak 4-H
The South Oak 4-H Club was formed October 1950.

​The present members are Sue Enderle, president; Jerry Jones, vice president; Mike Shaver, secretary; Steve Shaver, treasurer; Nancy Shaver, reporter; Game and Song Leaders, John Ford, Beth Gipson, Sid Hanks, Harold Welsh, Ted Welsh, Jerry Burks. Club leaders are Mr. J.A. Jones and assistant Mrs. Ronald Shaver.

Some of the things the club has participated in this year are as follows: Planted evergreens around the 4-H Livestock building. Made and set a South Oak 4-H sign west of town. Made a 4-H float for the horse show parade. Had two money making projects, one selling garden seeds, and the other selling the United States flag stickers.
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Some of the projects taken by the members are: Forestry, Gardening, Photography, Foods, Crafts, Dairy, Horsemanship, Vet Science.
They showed their projects at Achievement Day, County 4-H Show, Regional at Savannah, State Fair and Interstate at St. Joseph. Even though they are a small club they are working hard to keep it going another year.

Lathrop Lucky Clover
The Lathrop Lucky Clover 4-H Club has an enrollment of 42 members. The club leaders are Mr. Clifford McElhinney and Mrs. Gene Grady.

The Lucky Clover 4-H Club is active in many activities, including Achievement Day and the Junior Livestock Show. This year we’ve also had many members who had 4-H articles go to Interstate and State.

There are many members who have had very successful demonstrations. Also this year members have started giving public speeches at our club meetings.
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This 4-H year has been an exciting, interesting year and we’re sure next year will be just as good.

Trimble Progressive
​The Trimble Progressive 4-H Club participated in the annual Arbor Day celebration in April by having a clean-up of the yard at the Community Building and the streets leading to it, and having a part in the program.
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As part of our Health program we are having a physical fitness check-up in two parts (one at the beginning of the year and one near the end) with the hope that all have improved in between. As an activity in grooming we are all giving a proper manicure to ourselves or someone in our family. We are looking forward to entertaining new members and their parents and displaying all project items at our November meeting.

Plattsburg Hustlers
1969 was the year of expansion for the Plattsburg Hustlers 4-H Club. From a membership of nine, this club, from Plattsburg and northward, increased its roster to 21 members to win recognition as the club with the greatest percentage increase in membership.

The Hustlers were proud that four of their members – Sue Orr, Carol Shoemaker, David Hoover, and Scott Killgore – were selected to attend State 4-H Club Week at Columbia last June. David Hoover will also represent Clinton County at the American Royal 4-H Conference this month. Gene Paul Gengelbach had gained much experience in the office of vice-president, serving in that capacity in his own club, the Clinton County 4-H Council and the Clinton County Junior Leaders Club.

Younger members were active, too, with several sending exhibits to the Missouri State Fair and to the St. Joseph Interstate Show. Also at the Interstate Show was Randy Zimmerman, a first year member, showing his calf.

Favorite project in the club must be Outdoorsman, with seven boys participating in camping, fishing skills, and gun safely.

​Traditionally, the July meeting is a tour of members’ homes to view their livestock projects. This year the tour ended at the Clinton County Sportsmen’s Club where all families joined the members for a picnic supper.
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Officers of the Plattsburg Hustlers for 1969 are: David Hoover, president; Gene Paul Gengelbach, vice-president; Sue Orr, secretary; Dale Orr, treasurer’ Kathleen Shoemaker, game and song leader; Scott Killgore, reporter; Carol Shoemaker and Mrs. Maurice Shoemaker, council representatives; Mrs. Gordon Gengelbach, community leader; Mrs. Wilbur Shoemaker, assistant community leader.

 This year's Plattsburg Fall Festival Grand Marshals are great examples of dedicated community members. They have been a part of our area's rich heritage and served the community of Plattsburg in many ways. Congratulations to Mrs. Evelyn Green and Mr. Joe Harris, Sr. who were recently selected as the 2009 Fall Festival Parade Grand Marshals.
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Joe and Evelyn's lives cross paths several times in their stories. First, they are cousins. Joe's grandmother and Evelyn's mother were sisters. Second, they both grew up in the once bustling area of Mecca before making Plattsburg their home. Third, in the past sixty-plus years Joe and Evelyn have made a commitment to Plattsburg having both served on the City Council and being very involved in their churches. And finally, as African-Americans growing up in a time of segregation, they made a promise to do what they could to make their corner of the world a better place for their neighbors.

Clint Dye's Power Rankings - Leader Reporter

1. Lathrop (5-0) LW1 – Mules had no problems handling West Platte in a weather shortened contest last Friday. This Friday its Armageddon as they play rival Lawson in the KCI Conference Game of the Week. Been well over a decade since Lathrop won at Lawson.

2. Lawson (4-1) LW2 - Cardinals like the Mules handled their business with ease last Friday, defeating North Platte, 41-6. They host Lathrop this Friday and will be looking to avenge two losses from 2018.

3. Mid-Buchanan (4-1) – Went to Hamilton and emphatically defeated the Hornets last Friday, 35-0. This week they host East Buchanan in a rivalry tilt that has been highly entertaining the last few years. Two teams split their two meetings in 2018 with the Dragons winning the all-important District semi-final.

4. Hamilton (2-3) LW4 – Hornets laid an egg against Mid-Buchanan for their second loss in a row. Their head-to-head victory over East Buchanan keeps them above the Bulldogs for now. This week they host Plattsburg in a contest featuring two teams who have dropped their last two games.

5. East Buchanan (3-2) LW6 – It was a different coach facing the Bulldogs for Plattsburg again last week, but the result was the same as its been the past three years, East Buchanan leaving with a rivalry victory.  This week they have a big-time showdown at Mid-Buchanan. Bulldogs won an overtime thriller in the regular season last year before falling to the Dragons in District play.

6. Plattsburg (3-2) LW5 – Penalties and turnovers plagued the Tigers last week during their loss at East Buchanan. Will look to right the ship this Friday at Hamilton. Tigers are one of two teams in the conference (North Platte) who have yet to defeat the Hornets since they joined the KCI in 2012.

7. West Platte (1-4) LW7 – Were blanked by Lathrop last week in a weather shortened contest. This week it’s make or break for the Blue Jays as the Tobacco Stick is on the line when they host rival North Platte.

8. North Platte (0-5) LW8 – Panthers fell to Lawson as expected last Friday. Their best chance for a regular season W comes this week when they hit the road to take on rival West Platte. Panthers have won three in a row in the rivalry.

Brett Adkison's Power Rankings - Leader Editor

1. Lathrop (5-0, 3-0 KCI. LW: 1) – The Mules scored seven touchdowns on seven rushes against West Platte before Mother Nature showed her mercy last week. The fate of the

2. Mid-Buchanan (4-1, 2-1 KCI. LW: 2) – The Dragons are 4-0 and outscored opponents 165-6 when they haven't played Lathrop.

3. Lawson (4-1, 3-0 KCI. LW: 3) – Lawson has rattled off four straight after that opening loss to Oak Grove.

4. Hamilton (2-3, 1-2 KCI. LW: 5) – The Hornets have three losses, but those came against opponents who are now a combined 14-1.

5. East Buchanan (3-2, 2-1 KCI. LW: 6) – Gained traction last week against Plattsburg. Mid-Buchanan used to be the little brother on the football field. Not so much any more. Friday's game will be a big rivalry battle.

6. Plattsburg (3-2, 1-2 KCI. LW: 4) – The schedule doesn't get any easier as the Tigers takes on Hamilton, Mid-Buchan and Lathrop in succession.

7. North Platte (0-5, 0-3 KCI. LW: 7) – See below

8. West Platte (1-4, 0-3 KCI. LW: 8) – This is a crazy week of KCI Conference football, but perhaps none will be crazier than the battle for the Tobacco Stick. A win here for either team will help them avoid the conference cellar. Don't be surprised if this turns our to be the best game of the week.

For the second time in three years, The Clinton County Leader won the Missouri Press Association’s top honor for excellence in the newspaper industry.
    
The Leader won the 2019 Missouri Class 1 General Excellence Award for weekly newspapers during the 153rd Missouri Press Association Convention on Saturday, September 28, at Harrah’s North Kansas City. It was one of nine honors The Leader won this year, and one of five first-place awards.
  
 “There are some businesses that are fortunate to have employees whose work reflects their success,” said publisher Steve Tinnen. “The Clinton County Leader is one of those businesses. For 52 weeks out of the year, our staff provides coverage of the towns of Plattsburg, Lathrop, Gower, Trimble and Turney. Reporting the news in these communities and beyond requires dedication, talent, and hard work. That’s why I’m especially proud of our publication receiving this award.”
    The Leader also won the Class 1 General Excellence Award in 2017, in addition to back-to-back Missouri Class 1 Gold Medals for weekly newspapers in 2013 and 2014. Since 2008, The Clinton County Leader has been one of the winningest publications in the state, winning hundreds of awards in the annual Missouri Better Newspaper Contest for writing, reporting, photography, sports coverage, graphic design and more.
    
Judging for the General Excellence award is rigorous, covering all aspects of the weekly newspaper – breadth of coverage, quality of writing and reporting, page layout, sports pages, headline writing, treatment of public notices, and more. The award goes to the staff, including publisher Steve Tinnen, editor Brett Adkison, graphic designer Autumn Barnett, manager Betty Dickinson, and advertising manager Nikki Keling. Additional staff members include ad representative Linda Langford, reporter Jim Bonebrake, social media specialist Cassidy Troyer, proofreader Connie Collins, court reporter Skip Willdermood, and delivery manager Keith Stayton.
    
“It’s an honor to receive the General Excellence award again,” said Adkison. “We’ve set and maintained the standard for great journalism here in Clinton County and beyond. It means a lot to us because this is our hometown newspaper. Our staff members were raised and live in Lathrop, Plattsburg and Gower, so there’s a lot of pride in our work.”
    
The Leader won four other first-place awards in the 2019 contest, including top honors for Best Front Page, Best Sports News Story (Lathrop defeats Lamar, Brett Adkison and Clint Dye), Best Feature Obituary (The late Jean Gassman, by Steve Tinnen) and Best Sports Feature Photo (Plattsburg Wrestling by Brett Adkison).
  
 The Leader also took second place for Best Sports Feature (Lathrop Ends Lamar’s Historic Streak, by Brett Adkison) and honorable mention Best Sports Feature Photograph (Heartbreaker, by Clint Dye).
    
“Our sports coverage is always one of our strongest qualities, and that wouldn’t be possible without the great student-athletes, coaches and educators we have in our coverage area,” Adkison said. “It’s great to see our local students set their eyes on the target and succeed.”
    
The Leader also received second place for Best Photo Illustration (New East Buchanan Swing, by Brett Adkison) and honorable mention for Best Feature Photograph (Water Fight, by Brett Adkison).