Monthly Archive

After a long educational journey, the Adrian High School Class of 2010 graduated last Sunday, May 23, 2010. Congratulations, seniors! Best of luck in your future endeavors.

Each year the Adrian Optimist Club honors an elementary and junior high/high school teacher with a prestigious Teacher of the Year award. This year, the deserving recipients are Mrs. Amy Shipley, first grade, and Mrs. Dorothy Powell, High School Language Arts.

Pictured right: Optimist Member Curtis Reynolds presents a plaque to Amy Shipley. Pictured far right: Optimist Member and AHS Principal Chris Shanks presents the award to Dorothy Powell.

Adrian Junior High honors the top two top scholars every year. This year, Maykna Six (left) and Josie Lovejoy (right) have earned those honors.

The Adrian Chamber of Commerce’s featured business for the month of May is Mike Brawley Hauling. The business is located in Amoret, Missouri and is owned by Mike and Lori Brawley. It has been in operation for five years.

Brawley Hauling covers an area of approximately 50 miles, in Missouri only. The small business is family owned with Mike and Lori the sole employees. “We were both raised in this area,” Lori said. “I’ve been here all my life. Mike and his family came when he was about 13.”

The Adrian Community Chest was reactivated last year to provide funding for local civic groups and organizations in various community betterment and charitable endeavors. Community Chest board members are pleased to announce that their first benefactor is the Adrian Senior Center’s 15th Annual Miles for Meals “Pick It Up” Walkathon that is coming up on Sunday, June 6. Pictured: Alan Marr, President of the Adrian Community Chest, presents a check to Joanne Buhr.

Optimist Club Students of the Month are selected by the staff of the Ballard, Miami and Adrian Schools based on the following criteria:  Character, Attendance, Attitude towards others and school, Behavior, Leadership, and Improvement in or good grades. Each student receives a certificate of recognition and $20.00 in Adrian Chamber of Commerce “Chamber Bucks” from the Adrian Optimists. This month's recipients are:

Right: Katrina Moore, Adrian

Middle: Kyle Cumpton, Miami

Far right: Samantha Wickman, Ballard

Mark Tenholder of Adrian applied for a grant to benefit the Adrian FFA Chapter. The grant is entitled “America’s Farmer Grow Communities Award”, which is sponsored by the Monsanto Company. A $2,500 check was awarded to the chapter, in the name of Tenholder Farms.

Front row: Jim Tenholder and Wade Tenholder. Back row: Ken Tenholder, Monsanto Representative Jon White, Adrian FFA Member Colt Cumpton, Adrian FFA Advisor Brice Fischer, Mark Tenholder and Darrel Tenholder.

It takes a special person to commit his or her life to teaching children. In Adrian, the youth are fortunate to have a strong team of teachers, faculty and administrators. As this school year ends, five long-term members of the dedicated R-III team are retiring. Their commitment through the years has made a tremendous impact in the lives of many.

Pictured right to left: Kathy Hendrick, Leslie McBee, Kathy Whitehead, Barta Milligan and Tim Hudnall.

Two area graduating seniors have been awarded a $2,000.00 MFA Foundation scholarship. The scholarship is sponsored by West-Central AGRI Services, Adrian, MO.

Katrina Moore (right), Adrian R-III High School, plans to attend Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS.

Hannah Bartholomew (far right), Archie R-V High School, plans to attend the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO.

Five Adrian 6th graders traveled to Appleton City on March 9, 2010 for the annual 6th grade quiz bowl competition. The team members, pictured above, were: Ryan Baker, Sara Geringer, Tanner Tullock, Brohde Bennett and Hunter Chamberlain. They were chosen based upon the try-out results and other characteristics such as citizenship, flexibility and cooperation.

The Adrian team demonstrated both sportsmanship and teamwork throughout the entire evening. They were true examples of Blackhawk Pride and are to be commended for their efforts.

Five Blackhawks competed at the State Track Meet last weekend.

Keenan Morrow cleared the bar at 5’8”. Cody Hannah had a throw of 115’7” in the Class 2 discus.

Pictured right: Skyler Wooldridge stands on the podium (third from right) to receive her medal in the Class 2 pole vault at state track held last weekend in Jefferson City. Skyler vaulted 9’6” for a 5th place state finish and a new Adrian school record.

Middle: Erik White went 18’8” in the Class 2 long jump.

Far right: Olivia Case jumped 15’7” in the Class 2 long jump.

Right: Olivia Case accepts the Girls All Sport Award from Athletic Director Don Lile.

Far right: Erik White was presented the Jimmy Sexson Award from Athletic Director Don Lile.

The Adrian Blackhawks baseball team competed in district baseball on Tuesday, May 18. They played University Academy and defeated them 15 to 5. Adrian has a 15-2 record. Coach Dingman said, “This is the first time for Adrian to make it to the semi finals of districts. Had a great pitching outing by Luke Hough. We got runs when we needed and did a good job of keeping the pressure on University Academy.”

Stanton Lee Garr, of Rothville, MO and Rickie Garr, of Sheldon, MO announce the engagement of their daughter, Stanetta J. Garr, to Steven K. Hoover. The couple will be married on June 26, 2010, at Sheldon Christian Church in Sheldon.

The Adrian Community Library is now open in the former NAPA building at the corner of Main and Lexington Streets. Computers are available for community use and books for all ages can be checked out.  The variety of books range from large print, adult, teen and children’s favorites.

Residents celebrating May birthdays were honored Thursday, May 20, at Adrian Manor Health & Rehabilitation Center.   Birthday cake, ice cream, and beverage were enjoyed during the afternoon Birthday Party.  Pictured (left to right) are Rose Reynolds, Lucille Gebhardt, Marjorie North, and Rudy Wickman. 

Adrian High School Class of 1985 held their 15 year reunion on Saturday, May 9. The reunion was held at the Marty and Alice Hunholz residence with meat being served by Butthead Bar-B-Q. Those attending were, front row: Shelli Diehl White, Mary Beth Hunholz Stevens, Susan Bruce Farr, Mary Lucas Ziegler, Donna Nichols Underwood, Jimmy Jacks (in front), Alice McCulley Hunholz, Kari Yoss Scott, Lori Irvin Haskins, Brandy Bloomfield Morris, Regina Metcalf Ford, Michelle Finklang.

The installation of the 2010 - 2011 Adrian FFA Officers was conducted by Phil Gregg (front, middle) and the 2009 - 2010 officers during the annual FFA awards banquet last Tuesday, May 18. New officers are pictured, left to right: Megan Miller, outgoing Vice President; Colt Cumpton, Secretary; Wyatt Cumpton, Treasurer; Myiah Winn, outgoing Secretary; Travis Dawn, Chaplain; Amber Chamberlain, Reporter; Gus Arndt, Sentinel; Paul McCulley, Vice President; Rebecca Keating, President.

Joe Wix Ghere, 86, was born March 3, 1924 the son of Ralph and Lena Wix Ghere. He passed away Friday, May 21, 2010 at the Mt. Vernon Veterans Home in Mt. Vernon, MO.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, May 25, 10:30 a.m. at the First Christian Church, Butler. Burial with military honors will be in the Fairview Cemetery, Butler. Contributions may be made to the First Christian Church, Butler or the Butler DAV.

Carl Wayne “Jake” Knowles, age 75 of Rich Hill, Missouri died Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at Bates County Memorial Hospital in Butler, Missouri. He was born June 25, 1934 to Guy and Loretta Nichols Knowles in Taney County, Missouri.

Funeral services were Saturday, May 22, 2010 at Myrtle Tree Fellowship Assembly of God Church in Rich Hill with Pastor John Beckett officiating. Burial was in Greenlawn Cemetery, Rich Hill, Missouri. Contributions to Myrtle Tree Fellowship Assembly of God Church.

Forrest Edwin Virgin, 95, of Pleasanton, Kansas, died Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at Mercy Health Center, Fort Scott, Kansas. He was born April 20, 1915 at Boicourt, Kansas, the son of George R. and Lela E. Wier Virgin. 

  Memorial services were held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, May 24, 2010 at the Coffel-Schneider Chapel, Pleasanton, Kansas. Private family interment will be held at a later date. Contributions are suggested to the VFW Building Fund, Drexel, Missouri.

Parents, grandparents, family and friends enjoyed the talent of Adrian musicians in grades 4-12 on Thursday, May 6 at the Adrian Spring Music Concert. Right: Under the direction of Allison Oates, the high school band plays “Freefall”. Far right: The Blackhawk Singers, led by Pat Arnold, sang “Children of the World”.

Tuff Wimberly (left) is the 2010 Adrian High School Valedictorian. Tuff is the son of Shane and Amy Wimberly. He will be attending Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville this fall and plans to major in Wildlife and Ecology and Conservation.

The 2010 Adrian High School Salutatorian is Tyler Smith (right). Tyler is the son of Gary and Treva Smith. This fall, Tyler will be working toward a major in Computer-Aided Drafting Design at the University of Central Missouri.

Adrian’s 2010 Commencement is Sunday, May 23, 2010 at 2:30pm in the East Gym.

By MICHELE BURRIS

The Archie R-V Class of 2010 Valedictorian is Hannah Bartholomew (left). The Salutatorian is Kate Sanders (right).

By ANNA LEE JAMES

We in the Adrian Community fell way short of our goal of 45 at the American Red Cross Bloodmobile on Tuesday, May 11. Thirty-four donors showed up and 29 good units of blood were collected. Five donors were deferred for minor medical reasons. Thanks goes out to all donors that showed up to donate blood. They managed to take an hour of their day to help those in need.

I always look forward to the bloodmobiles and would like for donors to mark July 13 as our next time and I will see you then.

The sectional track meet was held Saturday, May 15 at Richmond High School. Twelve members of the Adrian boys track team participated and nine members of the girls team. The top four in each event qualified for state. Adrian has three boys, Keenan Morrow, high jump; Erik White, long jump; and Cody Hannah, discus and two girls, Olivia Case, long jump and Skyler Wooldridge, pole vault, who qualified for state.

10-year old Chase Dillon-Newport shot his first turkey on Mother’s Day while hunting with his dad. Chase is the son of Travis and Brenda Newport of Adrian and Jim and Crystal Reeves of Adrian.

Vicki Grove, a well-published author from Lincoln, MO, spoke with four groups of Adrian students, grades K-8, and met with a dozen teachers after school last Wednesday.  She shared very interesting and touching stories with the students about how her books have come to life.  They enjoyed her stories. Pictured are students in grades K-2 with Ms. Grove.

By KRIS SAATHOFF

Kip Yoss of Yoss Thriftway, Adrian, presents a check for $420 to the Ballard R-II PTO representing a one percent payback from sales receipts of merchandise purchased at the store. The school collects the receipts from students, which in turn are exchanged by the store for funds to further various school programs. Classes with the highest number of receipts turned in are also treated to a pizza party courtesy of Yoss Thriftway. Accepting the check are Cindy Wainscott (center), PTO President and Mary Borland, Secretary.

Rollo Wesley Winter, age 93 of Butler, Missouri died Saturday, May 15, 2010 at Bates County Memorial Hospital. He was born December 25, 1916 to Henry and Ollie Turpin Winter in Bates County, Missouri.

Funeral services were Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Rev. Bret Pritchard officiating and Rev. Art Ellsworth assisting. Interment, Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, Missouri. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or American Lung Association.

John Melvin “Mel” Stephens, age 90 of Butler, Missouri died Sunday, May 9, 2010 at Willow Lane Nursing Center in Butler. He was born January 22, 1920 to John Gordon and Leola Rae Haynie Stephens in Olean, Missouri.

Funeral services were Wednesday, May 12, 2010 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Brother Bill Perkey officiating. Interment was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, Missouri. Contributions may be made to Willow Lane, Grace Hospice or St. Francis Indian Mission.

Juanita Mae Randall, age 88 of Butler, Missouri died Wednesday, May 5, 2010 at St. Joseph Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. She was born January 30, 1922, the second daughter of three children, to Jim and Eva Bingaman Askren in Lucas County, Iowa.

Graveside services were 1 p.m. Monday, May 10 at Coal Hill Cemetery, ElDorado Springs, Missouri with Pastor Bill McLaughlin officiating. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Virginia L. (Cope) Jackson was born September 7, 1923 in Rich Hill, MO, the daughter of Roy and Myrtle (Hough) Cope. She passed away May 11, 2010 in Kansas City, MO at the age of 86.

Virginia’s wishes were to be cremated and buried beside her husband in the Greenlawn Cemetery, Rich Hill.

By CAROL SAUBERS GREGG

The 64th annual Adrian High School Alumni meeting was held Saturday, May 8, 2010 in the east gym at Adrian High School. President Matt Kendrick (pictured right), Class of 1993, called the meeting to order. Paul Burhart, Class of 1977, opened with the invocation.

This year we had our first annual volleyball tournament which was reported by Hannah Stephens Newkirk, Class of 2002 and the 11th annual alumni golf tournament reported by Gerold Stephens, Class of 2004. Everyone had a great time and everyone was looking forward to again next year.

Right: The Class of 1947 holds a reunion every year. This year they met at Old 71 Cafe. There were nine class members present. Front row - Erma Stark Atkinson, Wilma Long Graham. Back row - Evelyn Smith Scott, Rosalee Osborn Holland, Clarence Muiller, Dave Haggard, Kenneth Hooper, Ralph Epley, Neva Eneff McDougal.

Right: The Class of 1955 met at the WMAT&MA Ladies Auxiliary building in Frontier Village for their 55th reunion. They had ten classmates attending. Front row - Lena Dunham Cross, Louanne Paxton Elefson, Peggy Stark Shipley, Joan Robards Taylor, Donna Neil Shelton. Back row - Lynn Saathoff, Gene Lockard, Larry Greenwood, Joanne Greer Osborn, Mary Ann Mouse McConnico.

Right: The Class of 1975 held their 30 year reunion Saturday, May 8. They met at the home of Carl and Susan Ferguson. There were 19 classmates attending. Front row - Richelle Smith Garr, Ann Schallert Fly, Cynthia Heckadon Chastain, Allen Sollars, Jim Tenholder, Andy Enos, Kenny Moles, Steve Lovelace, Steve Lincoln. Back row - Jeannie VanBlack Murff, Donna Webb, Deborah Stark Cooper, Susan Ray Ferguson, Debbie Wolfe Frazier, Teresa Clifton Smith, Debbie Dickerson Umstattd, Debby Healey Ross, Debbie Reed Hill, Robert Imler.

Last Tuesday through the collaborated efforts of the Adrian Garden Club, the Lions Club and the Chamber of Commerce the planters uptown, or Pete’s Pots as they are known, are now ready for their summer blooming. They are planted in honor of Pete Hill, who started the uptown planting years ago. Those planting include, front row: June Ray, Rosemary Fritts, Liz Ray and Kellie Case. Back row: Barbara Lincoln and Betty Arney. Not pictured: Kay DePriest.

The 2010 Adrian High School Prom King and Queen are seniors Nick Highley and Olivia Case.

The WEMO Conference track meet was held last Tuesday, May 4 at the Archie High School track. The Adrian Blackhawks boys team took first place with 129 points. The girls team took second with 117 points.

The Class 2 District 7 track meet was held Saturday, May 8, at Knob Noster High School. The boys took third place with 66 points and qualified 12 to move on to sectionals. Hogan Prep won the meet with 95 points followed by Knob Noster in second with 86 points. The girls also took third place, qualifying nine for sectionals.

Tuesday, May 4 the Adrian Blackhawks baseball team played the Sherwood Marksmen and defeated the 12 to 2 behind the pitching of Austin Erickson. He pitched 5 innings, striking out 8 and walking 3. Adrian recorded 14 hits while allowing only 3 for Sherwood.

On Wednesday, May 5 the Blackhawks played the Butler Bears. Adrian defeated Butler 2 to 2 behind the pitching of Luke Hough. Luke pitched 5 innings, striking out 6.

The Adrian Lady Blackhawks softball team had a busy week last week. They played on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday and then a tournament on Saturday.

In the first game on Tuesday, May 4, the Lady Blackhawks fell to Sherwood 9 to 7. Coach Hubbard said, “The girls played well, but not well enough to beat a good Sherwood team. Any time you have nine errors it is hard to win. We left 14 people in scoring position but didn’t score them. We ran the bases well and did a good job of getting in position to score. Our team played hard and never gave up.”

Optimist Club Students of the Month are selected by the staff of the Ballard, Miami and Adrian Schools based on the following criteria:  Character, Attendance, Attitude towards others and school, Behavior, Leadership, and Improvement in or good grades. Each student receives a certificate of recognition and $20.00 in Adrian Chamber of Commerce “Chamber Bucks” from the Adrian Optimists.

The Ballard student selected for April is Michael Reeves. The Miami Student of the Month is Megan Sterling.  Erik White has been named as the Adrian Student of the Month.

Hailie Renee Lynn Lezer, 6 weeks old of Adrian, MO died Tuesday, May 4, 2010 at her home. Hailie was born March 24, 2010 in Kansas City, MO, the daughter of Valerie Wright Lezer of Adrian.

Graveside services were held Saturday, May 8, 2010 at the Crescent Hill Cemetery, Adrian, Missouri. Pastor Lance Loughridge of the Victory Assembly of God, Adrian, officiated.

Floyd James Laycock, 86 of Adrian, MO, passed away Sunday, May 9, 2010 at Golden Valley Hospital in Clinton, MO. Floyd was born November 10, 1923 near Spruce, MO, the son of Alfred James and Bertha Ann (Renick) Laycock.

Funeral services were held Thursday, May 13, 2010, 10:00 a.m. at the Atkinson Chapel, Adrian, Missouri. Elder Dan Brown of the Adrian Restoration Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ, officiated. Interment was in the Crescent Hill Cemetery, Adrian.

Reanna Marie McGhee and Robert Michael Krogsdale wish to announce their upcoming marriage. They will be united in marriage on Saturday, May 22, 2010 at the Adrian First Baptist Church. A reception will follow in the church gym. The couple will make their home in Adrian, Missouri.

Patricia Arnold, Patrick Estep and her grandmother Joyce Arnold would like to announce the engagement of Lois Arnold and Mitch Shiffer. The wedding date is set for June 5th at 2:00 p.m. in the Calvary Baptist Church, Adrian.

Saturday, May 8, 2010 ] 8:00pm Adrian High School East Gym

Roll Call of Classes * Golf & Volleyball Reports * Entertainment (ACC Band) * Special Recognitions * Introduction of Senior Class * Memorial Tribute and more

**Sponsored by the Adrian Alumni Association

Twenty-two Adrian R-III high school students were inducted into the National Honor Society (NHS) on Friday, April 30. Inductees are pictured. Front row, left to right: Ethan Weeks, Emily Hughes, Natasha Lowrie, Christa Hill, Alyssa Smotherman, Molly Still, Ambyr Goergen, Tarissa Keating, Wyatt Cumpton and Rachel McKenzie. Back row, left to right: J.R. Lawrence, Drew Cochran, Toni Perrymann, Mackenzie Deal, Nichole Cogbill, Jonathon Loughridge, Kortney Eidson, Rebecca Keating, Gus Arndt, Brandt McMillan and John Cameron. Not pictured: Colt Cumpton.

photo by Angela Lewis

Makyna Six, an 8th grade student at Adrian R-III, was one of four students to qualify for the Western Missouri Optimist District Oratorical Contest Finals. Last weekend, Makyna gave a speech in the finals held in Branson, MO on “Cyber Communication: Progress or Problem?”

Last Saturday, a crowd gathered at Adrian High School’s promenade. Juniors and seniors and their dates were escorted by Mayor Larry Ritter, Fire Chief Gary Dizney and Police Officer Hershel Cole. This year’s prom, themed “At the Carnival,” was held at Lee Andrews Hall and Garden in Blue Springs.

Bates County Memorial Hospital has determined that the Adrian Family Care Clinic building is structurally unsound and the entire clinic will have to be demolished.

The Board of Directors of the hospital has decided to re-build the medical clinic. The location is yet to be determined. The goal of the hospital is to have the clinic construction completed before cold weather. The re-building of the medical clinic demonstrates the hospital’s commitment to meeting the healthcare needs of our community.

Last Sunday was a (Dance) Craze-y night at the Adrian Optimist Building. The Dance Craze Power Starz Competition Team hosted a “Spaghetti for the Starz” fundraiser that included dinner, entertainment and a silent auction. Jenny Welcher and the Dance Craze Power Starz are looking forward to representing Adrian, Drexel and surrounding communities at the Stage One National Championships in June.

By ANNA LEE JAMES

The American Red Cross Bloodmobile will be in Adrian, Tuesday, May 11, from 1:00 - 6:00pm at the Adrian Optimist Building.

Adrian R-III senior Stephanie Newsome competed at State Music contest in Columbia, MO April 29, 2010. This is the third year in a row that she has first competed at District Music Contest in Pleasant Hill and received a Superior I Rating for her trumpet solos. The District level Superior I Rating qualified her to go on to compete at the State Music contest held yearly in Columbia. For three years in a row she has received an Excellent II Rating on her trumpet solos at the State Music contest.

Lions Club President Ken Newsome presents Adrian High School student Tarissa Keating with a donation to help with enrollment expenses to the Fine Arts Academy at Missouri State University in June.

Tuesday, April 27 the Blackhawks baseball team defeated Hume 8 to 2 for a 9-2 overall record on the season. As a team Adrian collected 9 hits with only 1 error. Shaylon Moreland was the winning pitcher as he went the full 7 innings. He struck out 11 batters, walking 5. Coach Dingman said, “Another decent hitting game. We got runs when we needed them. Shaylon pitched a great game. He had a no hitter going in 4 innings. First win at home and it is always good to get started that way.”

The Adrian junior varsity and varsity softball teams played Jayhawk Linn on Wednesday, April 28. The JV fell 9 to 8 and the fell 4 to 1. Coach Hubbard said, “I was pleased with the way our JV played. They played the same team our varsity played and were tied 8-8 in the seventh inning. They played with emotion and pride. This was our first full game as a JV team. This not only was a good learning experience for our JV, but our varsity too. I believe our JV gained a lot of respect from their teammates.”

The Adrian Blackhawks track teams participated in the Knob Noster Invitational Tuesday, April 27. The boys placed 10th overall. Coach Cochran said, “Very good competition today. Several Class 3 and Class 4 teams. We ran some good times, but team wise we just couldn’t compete. Overall I was fairly happy with our performance. It’s good that the kids see this kind of competition sometimes. We also saw some district teams we haven’t seen all year. This was a real good meet for the kids.”

Alan Eugene Booth, age 69 of Amoret, Missouri died Friday, April 30, 2010 at Medicalodge Nursing Center in Butler, Missouri. He was born March 4, 1941 to Ralph Bailey and Sylvia Avanell Miller Booth in Bates County near Rich Hill, Missouri.

Cremation memorial services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, May 15, 2010 at the Amoret Christian Church in Amoret, Missouri with Jack Smalley officiating and Kevin Smalley assisting. Contributions to Heartland Hospice. Inurnment, Benjamin Cemetery, Amoret, Missouri.

Floyd Ray Reynolds, 93, of Adrian, MO died Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at the Missouri Veterans Home in Warrensburg, MO. Floyd was born January 2, 1917 in Louisburg, MO, the son of Cecil Coleman and Nellie Frances (Prosch) Reynolds.

Funeral services were held Monday, May 3, 2010 at the Atkinson Chapel, Adrian, Missouri. Pastor Larry Hess of the Everett Community Church, Archie, MO, officiated. “In The Garden” and “Amazing Grace”, Darla Six, Soloist and Carolyn Yoss, Organist. Interment was in the Crescent Hill Cemetery, Adrian, Missouri.

By MICHELE BURRIS

Adrian PTO brought back a long-standing school and community tradition: Fun Night. Last Saturday, hundreds of kids and adults traveled the halls of the school to play a wide-variety of games, get their faces painted, dance to the music throughout the night, eat a good meal and bid on cool prizes. Rain hindered the use of the ever-popular inflatables, but that did not stop the fun inside!

By ANNA LEE JAMES

The American Red Cross Bloodmobile will be in Adrian Tuesday, May 11, from 1:00 -6:00 p.m. at the Adrian Optimist Building. Blood is in low supply at the present and every eligible donor should take an hour of their precious day and donate blood. “Life Is Rich. Share The Wealth. Be A Blood Donor”. You will feel better for doing so.

Adrian Elementary School encouraged daily attendance during MAP testing for three weeks in April. As an added incentive, classrooms that achieved an attendance rate of 98% or higher during those three weeks would watch their teachers throw a pie in Principal Brian Borgmeyer’s face. Grades 3 - 5 took three weeks of MAP testing. Grades K - 2 stepped up to the attendance challenge as a show of support for the intermediate grades.

Bates County Memorial Hospital has evaluated the structural damage to the Adrian Family Care Clinic. It has been determined that the building is structurally unsound and the entire clinic will have to be demolished. The Board of Directors of the hospital will evaluate whether or not to build a replacement medical clinic and its location. Further information will be forthcoming. The hospital expresses its commitment to the safety of our community, and extends appreciation to the community for understanding this unforeseeable situation.

By SHARON KIESEL

The Adrian Chamber of Commerce’s featured business for April is the Heartland Hospice Care, located at 612 West Fort Scott Street in Butler. The branch office, part of a national corporation, has been located in Butler for five years, this past January. They were formerly located on the Butler square but have been at the present location for about a year. The Butler office provides care for patients in five counties that include, Bates, Cass, Henry, St. Clair and Vernon.

Steve Hubbard, Donald Hubbard and Steven Jacobs recently donated their time and effort building a new flower box at the entrance to the Adrian City Park.

By MELVIN SMITH

The Adrian Blackhawks boys and girls high school track teams participated in the Archie Invitational Meet on Tuesday, April 20. The boys placed second with 92.5 points, behind Holden with 119.5. The girls placed third with a total of 79.5 points.

The Dance Out Regionals Competition took place in Excelsior Springs, MO last weekend.  Eighteen Dance Craze dancers (the Power Starz) from Adrian, Archie and Drexel competed in the petite, junior and senior divisions. 

The Adrian Blackhawks baseball team traveled to Ballard Tuesday, April 20 to take on the Ballard Bulldogs. Adrian moved their record to 8-2 with an 11 to 0 victory. Coach Dingman said, “It was the best fielding game of the year. Got the bats and base running going later in the game to go up big. Pitching was good.”

Pictured: Shaylon Moreland took his turn at bat against Ballard last Tuesday night.

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The Lady Blackhawks softball team traveled to Ballard Tuesday, April 20 and defeated the Lady Bulldogs 12 to 1. The girls’ record stands at 4 and 2. Coach Hubbard said, “This was a good game for our team. Everyone played in the game. I was impressed with the fact that 18 people played and we only had 1 error on the night. Our pitchers did well as did our catcher who threw one out at second. We used three pitchers and three catchers and everyone played well.”

The Adrian high school freshmen girls and boys track teams participated in the Cass Midway Co-ed meet on Monday, April 19. Adrian took first with 92 points. Coach Cochran said, “The kids ran great today. This is a fun meet because it is all freshmen and co-ed. The kids really enjoy it. They ran well. They were the class of the meet. Teamwise we won by 22 points, which speaks well for them. I’m proud of all the freshmen today.”

Cameron Tallman, age 9, shot his first turkey hunting with his dad on Saturday, April 24. The turkey weighed 23 lbs. and had a 9 1/2 inch long beard. He was hunting on some land owned by a family friend. Cameron is the son of DJ and Vanessa Tallman.

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Two district qualifying FFA contest teams from Adrian High School attended the Missouri State FFA Convention April 15-16. The convention was held at the University of Missouri in Columbia and around 6,000 other Missouri FFA members were present. The students in the teams that went were Colt Cumpton, Megan Miller, Alyssa Smotherman, and Destiny Kirk who formed the Horse Judging team, as well as Wyatt Cumpton, Paul McCulley and Rebecca Keating who formed the Agriculture Mechanics team.

The Adrian FFA Chapter received a $2,500-grant from Monsanto America’s Farmers Grow Communities Project during the 82nd Missouri FFA Convention, April 15-16, Columbia, Mo. From left: Doug Mertens, Monsanto; Adrian FFA Chapter members Rebecca Keating and Paul McCulley; and Brenda Cockrell, Monsanto. Monsanto gave farmers in 57 Missouri counties the opportunity to win a $2,500-grant to support their local communities. Eighteen producers chose FFA chapters to receive their grants. The program resulted in $45,000 going to FFA chapters in Missouri.

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“Beauty of Mathematics” was the theme of the 25th Annual Missouri Elementary Student Mathematics Contest sponsored by the Missouri Council of Teachers of Mathematics. The contest, conducted at 21 regional sites across Missouri during March and April, had over 2500 student participants in grades four, five and six. Winners placing first, second and third in each of two events (Concepts and Problem Solving) will be eligible to compete in the State Finals Contest held at Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri on May 1, 2010.

Janice Irene Ray, age 66 of Independence, Missouri died Thursday, April 22, 2010 at North Kansas City Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. She was born November 5, 1943 to Leroy and Lena Alberta Kerr Walker in Fort Scott, Kansas.

Funeral services were 11 a.m. Monday, April 26, 2010 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Pastor Yolanda Browne officiating. Burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, contributions to funeral expenses c/o Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel.

Brandon Peel, 25, of Adrian, Missouri, died unexpectedly, Monday, April 19, 2010, while working near his home. He was born June 6, 1984, in Kansas City, Kansas, the son of Daniel William Peel and Renée Lynn (Uptegrove) Peel.

Funeral services were held Thursday, April 22, 11:00 a.m., at the Adrian Christian Church, Adrian, MO. Burial was in the Crescent Hill Cemetery, Adrian. Contributions may be made to help with funeral expenses and may be made to Hadley Funeral Home, 0405 E. Benton, Windsor, MO 65360.

Roy Grant Cook, age 93 of Butler, Missouri died Sunday, April 18, 2010 at Medicalodge of Butler. He was born February 22, 1917 to Elmer Roy and Iona Florence Thomas Cook in Bates County, Missouri.

Funeral services were 2 p.m. Thursday, April 22, 2010 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Dr. Terry Davis officiating. Burial was in the Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, Missouri. Contributions may be made to the Ballard School Athletic Fund.

Area citizens, businesses and civic organizations step up to the plate time and time again to help children. Last Saturday, the 3rd Annual Casino Night was held at the Adrian Optimist Building. Proceeds benefit the Children’s Center in Butler. Countless people donated their time, money and resources to help raise nearly $19,000 for the Center.

By MICHELE BURRIS

Last weekend, Adrian students and staff presented the musical production “The Lion King.” A large crowd gathered on both Friday night and Sunday afternoon to watch the play.

By ANNA LEE JAMES

The American Red Cross Bloodmobile will be in Adrian on Tuesday, May 11, from 1-6 p.m. at the Adrian Optimist Building.

Adrian Bit & Spur Club’s first horse show of the year went off without a hitch.  There was a great turnout with over 150 entries.  Announcer Charles Tye, Ring Steward Colt Cumpton and Judge Tom Williams had their work cut out for them with 42 classes and outstanding participants. Judge Colt Cumpton had such a difficult time with the Lead Line class, that after conferring with Judge Williams, they jointly decided the class was too close to call and that there was nothing they could do but give each contestant a blue ribbon.

Ethan, Scott and Jimmy Ray had a good day of snagging on April 10th. Of the two biggest spoonbills, Jimmy Ray’s weighed in at 70 lbs. and Ethan Rowe’s weighed in at 60 lbs.

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Adrian Manor Health and Rehabilitation Center honored residents celebrating April birthdays. Pictured are  “Buster” Hillix, Marjorie Guss, and Wilfred Brown.  Birthday cake, ice cream and 7-Up were served during the birthday party Thursday afternoon, April 15.   

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Mrs. Jacque Underwood attended her last board meeting as a Director in the Adrian R-III School District on April 15, 2010. Mrs. Underwood has served on the Board of Education the past ? years. Mr. Steve Lewis, Board President, presented Mrs. Underwood with a plaque recognizing her years of service to the Adrian R-III School District.

The Adrian Blackhawks hosted their first ever Adrian Invitational last Tuesday, April 13. The boys took first with 151 points. Appleton City came in second with 132. The girls placed 1st with 127 points.

The Adrian Blackhawks baseball team, with a record of 5 and 1, traveled to Barstow and defeated the Knights 6 to 3. Coach Dingman said, “This was a big win for us. Barstow is a district opponent and we hit the ball well. We had to overcome some errors early on in the game but turned the game around in our favor in the middle innings. Both of our pitchers pitched well.”

The Adrian Lady Blackhawks softball team traveled to Sherwood April 15. Adrian fell to the Lady Marksmen 9 to 13. Coach Hubbard commented, “The girls played hard and never gave up. We had a bad inning where errors cost us on defense but overall we played well. Sherwood has a very good team both on offense and defense. We scored 9 runs but our defense couldn’t hold off their bat strength. We have improved in several areas and are understanding more what it takes to compete during school ball.”

Chad and Kristi Reynolds of Archie are proud to announce the birth of a son, Rylan Cooper Reynolds, born at 6:08 a.m. on March 24, 2010 at St. Luke’s East Hospital in Lee’s Summit, MO. He weighed 7 lbs. 2 ozs. and was 20 1/2 inches long. Rylan was welcomed home by his big brother Talan.

Norma June Schapeler, age 89 of Houston, Texas, formerly of Butler, Missouri died Sunday, April 11, 2010 at Houston Hospice in Houston, Texas. She was born March 21, 1921 to Walter William and Flossie Belle Bankson Clutter in Rich Hill, Missouri.

Funeral services were 2 p.m. Saturday, April 17, 2010 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Rev. Mark Kailbourn officiating. Burial in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, Missouri.

Beneta Christine Pipes, age 101 of Butler, Missouri died Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at Bates County Memorial Hospital in Butler. She was born May 26, 1908 to George and Josephine Jenkins Largent in Bates County, Missouri.

Funeral services were 2 p.m. Sunday, April 18, 2010 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel in Butler, Missouri with Brother Bill Perkey officiating. Burial, Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler, Missouri. Contributions may be made to the Nevada Habilitation Center.

Timothy “Tim” Albert Jones, age 65 of Hume, Missouri died Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. He was born July 29, 1944 to Ira Albert and Mary Elizabeth Ryals Jones in Kansas City.

Celebration of Tim’s life was held from 1-5 p.m. Saturday, April 17, 2010 at Hume Legion Hall in Hume, Missouri.

The Adrian high school boys and girls track teams participated in the Midway Invitational Tuesday, April 6th. There were 15 teams participating. The Adrian boys took 1st with 91.5 points.

The Adrian Blackhawks baseball team traveled to Drexel on April 6 and defeated the Bobcats 17 to 4 in five innings. Adrian had an explosive first inning as they scored 12 runs. They scored 2 in the second 3 in the fourth. Luke Hough was the winning pitcher. He pitched 4 innings, striking out 2. Coach Dingman said, “A good start by the boys. We came out hot and ready to hit.”

The Adrian Lady Blackhawks softball team traveled to Drexel Tuesday, April 6. They defeated the Lady Bobcats 15 to 0 in four innings. Kaley Keating recorded a shut out in four innings, striking out 7. Megan Lewis came in and pitched one inning, striking out 2.