Monthly Archive

As we begin a new decade, 11-month old Braden Jensen rings in the new year with his parents, Derek and Chara Jensen of Marshfield, MO. Braden is the grandson of Steve and Linda Oldfield of Adrian, MO and Murray and Karen Jensen of Marshfield, MO.

The past year has been history making nationally, with the election of the first black president and locally, as we sloshed through the tenth wettest summer in Missouri, since records were kept. This summer may have been relatively calm as far as tornadoes in this area, but in June, heavy winds burst through, causing heavy damage to buildings in Drexel and scattered damage from there, eastward to Archie and Adrian and beyond. This year has brought us moments of tears, moments of joy and everything in between as the time has swiftly flown into memory.

The Adrian Chamber of Commerce announced three winners of its annual residential Christmas lighting contest last week. Out-of-town judges toured Adrian to determine the top three decorated houses. Winners are: Tina Moore, 35 E. 6th Street (top photo); Don and Jeanette Cushard, 317 S. Kentucky (middle photo); and Vickie Xanders, 109 E. Lexington (bottom photo). Each winner received Chamber Bucks. Thank you to everyone who participated in the contest!

By ANNA LEE JAMES

The American Red Cross Bloodmobile will be in Adrian Tuesday, January 5 from 1 pm. -6 p.m. at the Adrian Optimist Building. Cantatas and carols have been sung. The New Year’s bells are ringing. New resolutions are being made, so on with 2010! A new beginning? A new start? A new commitment? What about starting the new year off by regular donations of blood. The Need Is Constant.

Local American Paint Horse amateur competitor Trent James of Adrian, Missouri, captured a world championship title recently at the 2009 Fall World Championship Paint Horse Show. The show, which was held November 5 - 14 in Fort Worth, Texas, is one of the American Paint Horse Association’s (APHA’s) premier events.

James claimed the championship in Novice Amateur Barrel Racing showing LRR Jetty Bars, an 11-year-old gelding owned by the rider. In the class, competitors are timed as they complete a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels.

Jaxon Dean Dizney was born November 28, 2009. He was 6 pounds and 18 inches long. Jaxon is the son of Brian and Starla Dizney, Adrian. Maternal grandparents are Cyndi Hill, Adrian, MO and Jack Hill of Augusta, KS. Paternal grandparents are Gary and Fay Dizney of Adrian.

By Douglas G. Fredrickson, LNHA
Adrian Manor Administrator

Adrian Manor Health & Rehabilitation Center appreciates everyone for their ongoing support this past year as we look forward to a very exciting New Year in 2010. Interested parties may want to periodically check out our website for updates (coming in January) on our virtual tour page and various news items such as the recent acquisition of the 12-bed Residential Care Facility Crystal Manor. Our website address is www.adrianmanor.com.

Sarah Jacobs, a freshman at Adrian High School with 48 winter coats/jackets and scarves and gloves for Children’s Center at Butler.

Rear Adm. Frank Caldwell (left), Commander, Submarine Group 9, recently presented Information System Technician Petty Officer 1st Class (SW/AW) Derrick Frazier (right) with the Defense Meritorious Service Medal during an awards ceremony November 5 at Naval Base Kitsap Bangor. The award was given after Frazier served with distinction while deployed to Afghanistan on an individual augmentee (IA) assignment from September 2008 to August 2009.

Allison Oates offers private voice and piano lessons for Adrian youth. Above are seven of her students who presented a wonderful Christmas program last Tuesday. Left to right: Kerigan Wimsatt, Ashlee Burris, Taylor Edmiston, Ashley Riley, Sheldon Tallman, Allison Oates, Payton Ritter, Bailey McMillan.

Students of Little Hawks Preschool were out and about on Main Street December 17 singing Christmas carols. The Adrian Journal was one of the businesses they visited.

Kidz Zone Learning Center celebrated the season with a Christmas program Tuesday, December 15. Over 225 friends and family members were on hand to enjoy the performance. A visit from Santa topped off the evening of fun.

submitted photo

Mary Louise Judy, age 68 of Hume, Missouri died Sunday, December 27, 2009 at St. John¹s Regional Medical Center in Joplin, Missouri. She was born May 12, 1941 to George Lewis and Nell Evelyn Garrison Swarens in Rich Hill, Missouri.

Funeral services were 11 a.m. Tuesday, December 29, 2009 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Pastor Fred Bisby officiating. Burial was in the Woodfin Cemetery, Foster, Missouri. Contributions may be made to the Walnut Community Church Kids Camp Fund.

Sarah Genevieve Amos, age 90 of Adrian, Missouri died Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at her home in Adrian. She was born February 26, 1919 to James Edgar and Mary Cole Branton in Blue Springs, Missouri.

Funeral services were 11 a.m. Monday, December 28, 2009 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Brother Alan Black officiating. Burial was in Scott Cemetery near Amsterdam, Missouri. Contributions may be made to the Heartland Hospice or Merwin Christian Church.

The Adrian VFW presented the National Citizenship Education Teacher Post Recognition Award to Adrian teacher Julie Carr (right) and Ballard teacher Jim Kershner (far right).
To be considered for this award, teachers are nominated by a school administrator or fellow teacher for their patriotism in teaching. The local VFW Post selects a winner from each school. As of the time the Adrian Journal goes to press, Julie and Jim could be the district winners for this prestigious award. District winners will then go to state and maybe even nationals.

The Board of Directors of Adrian Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Cary Six to Executive Vice President of the bank. Mr. Six was previously Vice President, serving the bank as Branch Manager of the Archie Office. He will continue in this capacity, and will remain a Loan Officer, with focus on credit analysis. Cary will also continue in business development and will take a more active roll in management of the bank with Chairman/CEO Gene Irvin and President Jack Wagner.

By ANNA LEE JAMES

The American Red Cross Bloodmobile will be in Adrian Tuesday, January 5, 2010 from 1-6 p.m. The Need Is Constant. The Gratification Is Instant. DONATE BLOOD.

Hope I have been helpful in this article. Look for more suggestions in my article next week. Mark the calendar now for Tuesday, January 5, 1-6 p.m. at the Adrian Optimist Building.

Under the instruction of Mrs. Pat Arnold, Adrian Elementary students sang the night away last Monday in celebration of the Christmas holidays. The fifth and sixth grade bands were directed by Mrs. Allison Oates.

Right: The first grade reindeer showed their Christmas spirit while singing about Rudolph. Far Right: The Blackhawk Singers gave a stunning performance.

By Doug Fredrickson, Adrian Manor Administrator

Christian and Elyse Evans help Julie Stevens stock canned food at the Adrian Food Pantry. As 2009 winds down and we all reflect on the year, the Adrian Food Pantry appreciates the community for all their support of food, money and volunteer time donated. May God continue to bless all of you during this Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Season.

The Adrian, Archie and Butler branches of the Adrian Bank provided lunch for customers on December 18 in appreciation for their business. Drawings for a wide-variety of prizes were also held.

Pictured: Rebecca Scott won the Emerson 32” LCD HDTV.

The VFW Patriots Pen is a youth essay competition that gives students an opportunity to express their views on democracy with the prospect of winning U.S. savings bonds.

The local VFW awarded three Adrian students cash prizes for their essays. First place: Spencer Kimberlin, $100; second place: Alex Tindle, $50; third place: Christian Graham. Their essays will be entered into the national contest. At the national level, the top 43 winners will receive at least a $1,000 U.S. Savings Bond.

The Adrian Blackhawks hosted the Sherwood Marksmen for the final game before Christmas break. Adrian goes into the break with a 6 and 0 record. The Blackhawks defeated the Marksmen 73 to 51.

Coach Wheeler said, “I was very pleased with our team after this game. Our bench stepped up and provided some good production. We are still looking to shoot better.”

Right: Skyler Kariker goes up for two over the Sherwood Marksmen last Monday night at home.

Far right: Keenan Morrow drives past Sherwood’s #22 to score a layup.

The Adrian Lady Blackhawks hosted the Sherwood Lady Marksmen on Monday, December 14. The Lady Blackhawks defeated Sherwood 63 to 52 to move their overall record to 5-1.

Coach Dingman commented, “I had a big game from my bench. Courtney Miller worked hard. Defensively, it was the best game we have played.”

Right: Kaleigh Lock dribbles past Sherwood’s #4 during action last Monday night at home.

Far right: Chelsea Urie fights for the ball against Sherwood.

Photos by Mike Burris

Norman E. McCleary, 80, of Adrian, MO passed away Friday, December 18, 2009 at his home. He was born Friday, September 13, 1929 in Glendale, Arizona, the son of Edgar and Goldie (Foster) McCleary. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at the Atkinson Chapel, Adrian, MO with Mike Harenza officiating and Masonic services by Crescent Hill Masonic Lodge #368. Burial was in the Hazel Green Cemetery, Boulder City, MO. Memorial contributions may be made to the Adrian Community Library, 116 E. Main, Adrian, MO.

Flossie Fritts Lankford-McDonald, 92, of St. Peters, Missouri, died December 12, 2009. She was born February 25, 1917 to John W. and Edna LaFollette-Fritts at Amsterdam, Missouri, where she attended the Liberty grade school and graduated from Amsterdam High School.

Madge Evelyn Cox, age 91 of Butler, Missouri died Sunday, December 13, 2009 at Willow Lane Nursing Center in Butler. She was born August 6, 1918 to William Russell and Macie Belle Hughes Focht in Henry County, Missouri.

Funeral services were 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Rev. Art Ellsworth officiating. Burial was in the Walnut Grove Cemetery, Ballard, Missouri. Contributions may be made to the Ohio Street United Methodist Church, Butler Senior Center or Walnut Grove Presbyterian Church.

Once again the Adrian Bank elves did their magic. For the third year in a row, the Adrian Bank Elf Fund is making Christmas special for several families in Adrian, Archie and Butler. The fund is used to purchase warm clothing and other necessities as well as toys and games for each child. In addition, each family will also receive a full Christmas dinner with all the trimmings.

By MEG MAFFITT

By SHARON KIESEL

Many years ago, Adrian, as did many other communities, had a Community Chest. The purpose of the community chest was to provide funding for local civic groups and organizations in various community betterment and charitable endeavors. Adrian’s Community Chest went dormant for several years, primarily because the main source of funding came from the United Way foundation and when they revamped their program, they no longer funded in name only entities.

by ANNA LEE JAMES

The annual volunteer taxi driver’s dinner was held December 11 at Wimfield’s and we were served a delicious meal.  The Optimists and Lions Clubs provided the meal as part of their community service. The Adrian Taxi Service helps our senior citizens be independent and therefore supports our local businesses.  The service started in 1991. 

Jenny Welcher, owner and instructor of the Dance Craze, is fully committed to providing as many opportunities as possible for her dancers. Last weekend reaffirmed that commitment as she organized a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for dancers to participate in the Kansas City Chiefs Dance Studio Day halftime show with the Chiefs cheerleaders. Eleven girls from Adrian, Drexel and Archie joined Jenny on this two-day adventure. Jenny said, “What an amazing opportunity for these kids. It’s an experience none of us will ever forget. It was a blast.”

The Adrian Blackhawks hosted the Butler Bears on Friday, December 11 in non-conference action. Adrian took the victory 54 to 42 to move their overall record to 5-0.

The Adrian Lady Blackhawks hosted the Butler Lady Bears on Friday, December 11. Adrian moved their overall record to 4-1 with a 68 to 54 victory. In the first half of play the Lady Bears outscored Adrian to take a 27 to 25 lead into halftime. During the second half the Lady Blackhawks poured it on as they outscored Butler 43 to 26. Coach Dingman said, “We had a good game from Emily and Brenna scoring, but I also had some girls step up and rebound. It came down to free throws in the end. We made them when we needed to.”

Matthew Ortiz presents Julie Stephens with a check for the Adrian food pantry.  This Halloween, $385 was raised by the Quill and Scroll Haunted House. Matthew was the primary organizer of the haunted house which was held in the old high school basement. Members of TSA and FCCLA also helped with the project. Community response was positive, and the organization hopes to put it on again next year.

The honor of your presence is requested at the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Jim and Lois McCanles on December 20, 2009 at the Frontier Village Community Building in Adrian, MO from 1:00-4:00 p.m. No gifts please. Your presence is gift enough.

By DOUG FREDERICKSON

The traditional Resident Christmas Party was held at Adrian Manor on Saturday December 12, 2009 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.. About one hour of live bluegrass style Christmas music featuring “The Cooper Family” was performed followed by some special Christmas visitors, Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, who visited residents, children and others as well. A wide variety of refreshments were served throughout. All staff did an outstanding job as usual.

The Adrian Ministerial Alliance presented Comfort and Joy, a Christmas Cantata, performed by the Adrian Community Choir on Sunday, December 13. It was held at the Adrian High School gymasium. Those attending donated canned food items for the Adrian Food Pantry.

photo by Melvin Smith

Carol Shaffer, age 65 of Butler, Missouri died Friday, December 4, 2009 at Bates County Memorial Hospital in Butler. She was born December 28, 1943 to Herbert Calvin Jr. and Helen Louise Murphy Forrey in Kansas City, Missouri.

Funeral services were 2 p.m. Tuesday, December 8, 2009 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Don Rice officiating. Interment, Myers Cemetery, Appleton City, Missouri. Contributions, Family.

Brad Alan Bybee, Cameron, MO, formerly of Independence and Raymore, MO, passed away peacefully early Saturday morning, December 12, 2009 at the Cameron Regional Medical Center following a lengthy struggle with a number of service related problems.

Memorial service will be held Saturday, December 19, 12:00 p.m. at the Brown Funeral Home, Cameron. Visitation will be held Saturday morning from 10:30 a.m., until service time. Memorial contributions may be given to the Diabetes Foundation or to the Fristoe and Bethel Cemetery funds for a lighted flag pole.

Arlo W. “Shorty” Hinds, 86, Adrian, MO, died Tuesday, December 8, 2009 at Adrian Manor in Adrian. Funeral services were held Saturday, December 12 at the Atkinson Chapel in Adrian, officiated by Rev. Paul Burhart, First Christian Church, Adrian.

Ruby Nell (O’Dell) Greer, 71, of Urich, MO died Thursday, December 10, 2009 at her home. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at the Atkinson Chapel in Adrian, MO, officiated by Pastor Len Redding, Fairview Baptist Church of Ballard, Missouri. Music by Jack Greer. Burial was in the Austin Cemetery, Archie, MO. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, Kansas City Metro Office, 6700 Antioch Road, Suite 100, Merriam, KS 66204 or to Heartland Hospice, 612 West Fort Scott Street, Butler, MO 64730.

Ann Alexander, age 81 of Butler, Missouri died Saturday, December 5, 2009 at Silver Oaks of Butler. She was born May 13, 1928 to Hiram Earl and Effie Elsie Close Smith in Butler.

Funeral services were 11 a.m. Thursday, December 10, 2009 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Rev. Art Ellsworth officiating. Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, Missouri. Contributions may be made to the Community Food Pantry of Butler.

The Adrian Blackhawks boys and girls varsity teams traveled to Liberal on Monday night, December 7 for non-conference action. Both teams brought home victories.

The Lady Blackhawks had four players in double figures and Emily Hughes recorded a double-double as they won the contest 72 to 62. Coach Dingman said, “We played pretty well. We hit 11 three’s in the game. Emily Hughes had a double-double. Our defense stepped up in the fourth quarter and that is what won the game for us. We where down by 4 going into the fourth and won by 10 so it was a good game.”

By MIKE BURRIS

The Blackhawks kicked off WEMO Tournament action with a 72-24 slaughtering of the Osceola Indians on November 30, 2009. “We had balanced scoring. We were able to force a lot of turnovers and convert those to points,” said Coach Wheeler.

By MIKE BURRIS

The Adrian Lady Blackhawks started the 2009-2010 basketball season Tuesday, December 1 in the WEMO Conference Tournament in Osceola. Adrian was seeded 1st in the tournament and were up against the No. 8 seed Miami Lady Eagles. The girls started off strong and never looked back as they easily defeated Miami 70 to 13.

Four Adrian Blackhawks were named to the Coaches All-State Team (left to right): Tylor McDonald, 3rd team linebacker; Skyler Kariker, 2nd team wide receiver; Erik White, 3rd team running back; Kendall Schellman, 3rd team offensive line.

For the second time this year, Santa visited the kids of Adrian and area towns. The Dance Craze Power Starz competition dance team welcomed Santa (pictured right) to a pancake breakfast on December 5 at the Adrian United Methodist Church. Kids were thrilled to tell Santa their wishes for Christmas this year! To add to the camaraderie, the entire Dance Craze company performed their “Christmas Spectacular” during breakfast.

It was one year ago, November 19th, that David Cook was last seen. There is still no explanation as to what happened to him, but one thing the family is certain about is that David had cattle stolen from his property near Virginia, MO between June and November 2008 when he went missing. They believe he had cattle stolen from other locations as well.

More than 30 vendors greeted the community at the 2nd Annual Holiday Open House at the Adrian Optimist Building last Sunday. Shoppers found something for everyone on their Christmas lists. Massages, face painting and balloon animals were available. For mid-day entertainment, the Dance Craze dancers (far right) performed their “Christmas Spectacular” for the crowd. Right, Mary Kay Consultant Jackie McCammon sells merchandise to Amy Kostuke and her daughter Katie.

The Adrian R-3, Ballard R-2, and Miami R-1 School Districts have been working in conjunction with the Adrian Optimist Club to honor a Student of the Month from each school.

Students are selected by staff members on the following criteria: Character, Attendance, Attitude towards others and school, Behavior, Leadership, and Improvement in, or good grades.

William K. and Earlene (Robinson) Jenkins were married December 10, 1944 in Bartlesville, Oklahoma and have lived in the same location near Adrian, MO over 61 years.

William Ellsworth “Bill” Steiner of Harrisonville, Missouri was born June 5, 1914 in Germantown, Maryland the son of Anton and Elmer (Williams) Steiner. He departed this life on Thursday, November 26, 2009 at Golden Years Care Services, Harrisonville, Missouri at the age of 95 years, 5 months and 21 days.

A Memorial Graveside service will be Tuesday, December 8, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the Manasota Memorial Park, Bradenton, Florida.

Russell Eugene (Gene) Campbell was born on June 13, 1929, at home in Foster, MO near New Home and died in Nevada, MO on December 2, 2009. His parents, Emery and Clara Mae (Wolfenbarger) Campbell; grandparents, James and Alice Wolfenbarger (who raised him); brother, James Emery (Buddy) Campbell; and two infant sons: Russell Dale and Stephen Ray all preceded him in death.

“Hot Chocolate Night,” a 24-year WMAT&MA tradition, continued in Adrian last Saturday at Frontier Village. Families enjoyed warm hot chocolate and tasty cookies, candy and apples. They took train, tram and buggy rides, and visited with Santa.

Pictured right, Mikey Brynes shares his Christmas wishes with Santa as Mrs. Claus listens in. Far right, families were all smiles on the train ride.

By SHARON KIESEL

Three Adrian students presented the highlights of their FCCLA project during a high school assembly on Tuesday, November 24. Guest speaker for the event was Bates County Memorial Hospital medic, Kelly Phillips.

The project, “Every Fifteen Minutes”, focused on the effects of drunk driving and the statistics that every 15 minutes someone dies in an alcohol-related incident. The girls, Katarina Welch, Heather Greer and Whitney Bagby spent the past three weeks putting everything together.

A retirement party was held Monday, November 30 at the Adrian Post Office for Howard Martin. He is retiring after serving the postal service for 25 years and one month.

The family of Jennie Mae Lynn Umstattd will hold an open house in honor of her 80th birthday December 20, 2009 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Ballard School. Your presence will be her gift. If you are unable to attend, please send a card to Rt. 1 Box 529, Butler, MO 64730.

Members of the Adrian First Baptist Church hosted a farewell dinner for Dean and Connie Moore on Sunday, November 29 at the church. The Moores came to Adrian in 1959 and are moving to Mississippi to be close to their family. Friends roasted Dean but said only good things about Connie. The Moores were also presented a scrapbook.

photo by Melvin Smith

Residents of Adrian Manor Health and Rehabilitation Center who celebrated November Birthdays were (left to right): Robert Lafferty, Robert Xanders, Una Mayfield, Ann Roach, and Alberta Saylor.

submitted photo

On November 20 - 23, Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) members Tayler Diehl, Mackenzie Deal, Haley Bass, and Natasha Lowrie and their advisor Mrs. Julie Carr attended the National FCCLA Cluster Meeting in Louisville, KY. They attended general sessions with motivational speakers such as Heather Schults and William “Woody” Held. They also participated in workshops about STAR Event contest opportunities and Culinary Arts programs.

The Adrian Optimist Club presented Adrian 6th grade students with dictionaries in memory of Floyd Buhr. This special presentation was one of Floyd Buhr’s favorite projects of the Adrian Optimists.

Right: Mrs. Debbie Slattery’s sixth graders are pictured. Front row, left to right: Alyssa Gray, John Collins, Tanner Tullock, Colton Kimminau. Middle row: Gage Steen, Adam Cochran, Ethan Stewart, Trevor Sanders, Ryan Baker, Zac Dabney. Back row: Matthew Hill, Tracy Helms, Bethany Burton, Malory Moles, Brooke Wilson, Hailey Keel, Jessica Blomquist.

The Adrian Blackhawks began the WEMO Conference Tournament Monday night at Osceola. They are the number 1 seed and played the Osceola Indians. Adrian defeated Osceola 72-54 and will play Thursday night at 6:30. Right: Alex Wilson drives by the Osceola defenders to lay in two for the Blackhawks. Far right: Cody Hannah goes up for the basket during Monday night action.

Photos by Mike Burris

The Fall athletic reception honoring cheerleaders, volleyball and football players for the 2009 season was held last Tuesday night, November 24. Athletes receiving special recognition were: Volleyball - Co-Captains, Olivia Case and Caressa Wainwright; Most Kills, Caressa Wainwright; Most Aces, Natasha Lowrie; Most Assists, Natasha Lowrie; Best Serve Percentage, Nichole Cogbill; Most Improved, Ashley Najera; Hustle, Natasha Lowrie; Most Valuable Player, Olivia Case.

Last weekend art students from Adrian participated in the 37th annual art show of Bates Co.  The show is sponsored by the Fine Arts League of Bates County and was host to many fine works of art from local schools, as well as resident artists and craftsman.  The three day show located at the Bates County Museum Banquet room provides an encouraging environment for the fine arts including sales, monetary donations from local sponsors and judges, and a pleasant variety of homemade soups, sandwiches and pies to enjoy while viewing the work.  Works from Adrian R-III students will be on display a

The Adrian Chamber of Commerce’s featured business for November is Double D Designs, located east of Archie. The business, owned by Tracy and Scott Dalton (the Double D) specialize in screen printing and embroidery.

The Dance Craze competition tumbling team participated in their first ever tumbling meet last weekend at Basehor-Linwood High School in Kansas. There were over 500 competitors. The tumblers worked hard to memorize and nail their routines. In February, they will compete to qualify for the championship meet in March. Front row, left to right: Lexie Ward, Payton Ritter, Bailey McMillan, Morgan Reid. Back row, left to right: Taylor Edmiston, Marissa Markel, Jaylee Welcher, Brianna Greene, Ashlee Burris.

submitted photo

Diana Adell shot her first deer ever and it was a 9 pointer. She bagged it on Monday, November 16 in eastern Cass County.

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The children of Pat and Mary Lee Oates invite you to a celebration of their parents’ 60th wedding anniversary to be held Sunday, December 6, 2009 2-4 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, Main and Houston, Adrian, Missouri, or you can send cards to: Rt. 1, Box 540, Adrian, Missouri 64720.

Miss Mary Lee Stark, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Willie Stark of Adrian, became the bride of Patrick Oates, the son of Mrs. Stella Oates of Adrian, in a ceremony held at the parsonage of the First Baptist Church in Independence, Missouri on December 3, 1949.

Jacob and Sonia (Dilks) Richardson are proud to announce the birth of their son. Alexander Lee Richardson was born October 27, 2009 in Kansas City, Missouri, weighing 7 lbs. 12 ozs., 21 1/2 inches long.

Ina Lee Varns, age 92 of Butler, Missouri died November 21, 2009 at Kansas City Hospice House in Kansas City, Missouri. She was born February 22, 1917 to Blueford and Nellie Theresa Koon Howard in Bates County, Missouri.

Funeral services were 10 a.m. Wednesday, November 25, 2009 at the Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Rev. Art Ellsworth officiating. Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, Missouri. Contributions may be made to the Ohio Street United Methodist Church.

Jacqueline “Jackie”  Kay Kenney, 69, Adrian, MO, died Wednesday, November 25, 2009 at K.U. Medical Center, Kansas City, KS.  Funeral services were held Monday, November 30 at the Atkinson Chapel in Adrian, MO, officiated by Rev. Paul Burhart, Adrian Christian Church.  Burial was in Newton Burial Park in Nevada, MO.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Pulmonary Hypertension Association, 801 Roeder Road, Suite 400, Silver Springs, MD 20910.

Ruth Orvine West, age 85 of Butler, Missouri died November 20, 2009 at her home in Butler. She was born June 22, 1924 to Arthur Charles and Jetta Burle Morehouse Long in Foster, Missouri.

Graveside services were 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at Salem Cemetery in Foster, Missouri with Brother Bill Perkey officiating.

Birdie Frances Ailshire, age 92 of Blue Springs, Missouri, formerly of Butler, Missouri died November 20, 2009 at Shangri-La living Center in Blue Springs. She was born November 1, 1917 to Dave and Minnie Bell Shaddox Butler in LaRue, Arkansas.

Graveside services were 2 p.m. Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Pleasant Hill, Missouri with Chaplain Tim Allison officiating.

Elizabeth Ann “Betty” Dudley, age 80 of Montrose, Missouri died Saturday, November 14, 2009 at Ellett Memorial Hospital in Appleton City, Missouri. She was born June 15, 1929 to George Albert and Lenora Clara Arens Swaters in Montrose.

Mass of Christian Burial was held 10 a.m. Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Montrose, Missouri with Father John Bolderson officiating. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Montrose. Contributions may be made to the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

James Lee Ridgway, of Harrisonville, Missouri was born September 6, 1922 in Appleton City, Missouri the son of Elva Worth and Flora Emmaline (Paul) Ridgway. He departed this life Saturday, November 21, 2009 at the Cass Regional Medical Center, Harrisonville at the age of 87 years, 2 months and 15 days.

JB Gregory, age 82 of Amsterdam, Missouri died Monday, November 16, 2009 at Bates County Memorial Hospital in Butler, Missouri.  He was born June 15, 1927 to Jesse Thomas and Ruby Fern Summers Gregory in Amsterdam.

Funeral services were 10 a.m. Thursday, November 19, 2009 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Linda Case officiating. Burial was in the Scott Cemetery, Amsterdam. Contributions may be made to the Amsterdam Methodist Church or Scott Cemetery.