Shirley Mae McGinness Morgan
January 31, 1926— April 4, 2018

Shirley Mae McGinness Morgan, 92, of Excelsior Springs, Mo., lost her struggle with cancer on Wednesday, April 4, 2018. Her fight and passing were accompanied by her usual humor, grace and dignity.

Shirley Mae McGinness Morgan

Shirley was born January 31, 1926 in Detroit, Michigan. She received her Associate of Arts degree from Stephens College in Columbia, Mo., and continued her studies at the University of Missouri. Her life was one of style, both personally and professionally. She worked in multiple positions for several retail companies in the fashion world, including serving as a personal shopper at Stix, Baer & Fuller. In May 1986, she married Joseph Morgan — and his entire family — and enjoyed 25 years of entertaining and enjoying music, wonderful food and great company at their homes in Liberty and Excelsior Springs. Following Joe’s death in 2011, Shirley continued her life at the Oaks Apartments in Excelsior Springs, ever the gracious hostess ready to entertain. Even in her last weeks, she kept her style and humor; after she had moved into her room at the Convalescent Center and the family had decorated (to her precise instructions), she mused, “Well, do you think they’ll put it on the homes tour?”

Shirley was preceded in death by her mother and father: Clara and Alton Alford; and her husband Joseph Morgan.

Survivors include her loving son: Brian C. McGinness and his husband J. Kent Barnhart; son Stephen L. McGinness; and her ex-husband E. Logan McGinness. She is also survived by her stepchildren: Patrick J. Morgan (Verna), Kevin Morgan (Sonya), Shannon Morgan, Jill Clark (John), and Molly Roberts; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family is especially thankful to “Shirley’s Angels” — those who went above and beyond to care for Shirley: Janice Lewis, Shannon Morgan, Molly Roberts, Kristy Thatcher, Courtney Cole, and her ever-present and loving son, Brian McGinnesss.

A visitation will be held at 10 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 14, at Bross and Spidle Chapel, 217 West Broadway St., Excelsior Springs, Missouri. A private family interment will follow.

In lieu of flowers, tax deductible donations may be made to the Convalescent Care Center — Excelsior Springs Hospital, 1700 Rainbow Blvd., Excelsior Springs, MO 62024 or Quality Hill Playhouse, 303 W 10th St., Kansas City, MO 64105.

Goodnight Mom.

Arrangements provided by Bross and Spidle Funeral Home of Excelsior Springs.

The Excelsior Springs Hospital will offer the community a free car seat safety check at the upcoming Tiger Fest, on Friday, April 13 from 5  to 7 p.m.

Motor vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of injury-related death in children ages four and under. Child safety seats, when installed correctly, can prevent injuries and save lives. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, buckling children into age-and-size appropriate car seats, booster seats, and seat belts significantly reduces the risk of serious and fatal injuries.

Car seat use reduces the risk for death to infants (aged <1 year) by 71 percent; and to toddlers (aged 1–4 years) by 54 percent in passenger vehicles.

Booster seat use reduces the risk for serious injury by 45 percent for children aged 4–8 years when compared with seat belt use alone.

For older children and adults, seat belt use reduces the risk for death and serious injury by approximately half.

“I would love to draw everything in Excelsior Springs.”

If Holly Spencer’s work looks familiar, it’s because you’ve probably seen it — and if you haven’t seen her art, then you’ve seen her subject.

Spencer paints Excelsior Springs and manages to capture more than just its likeness. Instead, she also manages to recreate the joy and charm of the town, through her use of color and perspective. Spencer grew up in Carrollton, and teaches art in Lawson, but she has called Excelsior Springs home since 2004.

As a child, Spencer kept sketchbooks. She received a Bachelor of Arts from William Jewell College, and has continued her education through graduate classes from the Kansas City Art Institute. But she never prioritized her sketching until 2015. As teacher, with lots of after-school activities, as well as a marathon running, Spencer’s time fills up quickly. But she knew she simply needed to make it a focus, if she hoped to succeed.

“I realized if I was ever going to make my own art, I would just have to find the time,” Spencer explained.

To that end, Spencer began to log the hours she spent sketching in her planner, just so she could keep track. Doing so helped her make her own art a focus in her already very busy life.

As evident in her art, Spencer draws her inspiration from her surroundings.

“I draw my inspiration from the things around me,” Spencer explained. “I mostly sketch from observation and on location.”

She is a member of the Urban Sketcher Kansas City. They meet as a group and go on “sketchcrawls” to local attractions.

She saves much of her artistic admiration for illustrators.

“Most of the artists I admire are illustrators,” said Spencer. “I love the illustration work of Tommy Kane. He has the most fabulous sketches from his travels all around the world. His work is so detailed and humorous. It is always uplifting to view.”

Spencer also enjoys the work of pop artists such as Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Wayne Thiebaud.

Spencer is always on the lookout for her next art project.

“I am always looking for subjects to sketch. Sometimes I pick things because I know I have the time top finish them quickly. Other times, it’s because the trees or the holiday decorations make it a perfect subject.”

She also refers to herself as a “collector of interesting things, so her home studio also provides her with plenty of inspiration on the days she can’t make it out to paint.

As far as mediums go, Spencer works in watercolor after sketching in ink.

“I prefer sketching in ink first, before I add washes of watercolor,” Spencer explained.

She prefers to work in watercolor sketchbooks. She has learned to bind her own books, but her favorite sketchbooks are handmade by an artist by the name of Soleh Hadiyana in India.

But her inspiration is all downhome.

“I would love to draw everything in Excelsior Springs,” Spencer said. “I love this town. I love the history.”

Because of that, she tries to add a bit of the history of her subject when she posts something. She believes there is a link between art and history, especially since on several occasions, buildings that she has sketched have later been destroyed.

“I’m really happy that I have my sketches to remember them,” she said.

“I sketched an old Parker Carousel when the carnival came to town a couple of years ago,” she explained. “I later called the owner to find out the history of the carousel and he told me that the Excelsior Springs Carnival was its last.”

After the carnival in town closed, the 100-year-old carousel was packed up on a trailer and was later in a wreck. The carousel was unsalvageable and sold off for parts.

“I am glad I am able to preserve a bit of history through my sketches,” Spencer said.

This year, one of Spencer’s sketches was chosen to be the T-shirt for the 2018 Tortoise and Hare race for the Good Samaritan Center. Spencer has a special connection.

“It’s a race that’s very special to me,” Spencer explained. “I have participated in it for several years, and my grandma, Norma Gorsett, was very active on the board at the Good Samaritan Center for years.”

“She has always had a great heart for charity, and I have been inspired by her selfless nature,” Spencer added.

To see more of Spencer’s art, check out her Instagram account, millfeatherstudio.

Children with autism grow up into adults with autism.

They are often overlooked, underemployed, and don’t always receive the same push for inclusion, awareness and acceptance that children with autism get.

Shawn Roney was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in his early 40s. He originally received a diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome—Asperger’s is placed under the larger umbrella of an ASD diagnosis.

“I was aware that people thought I was different,” Roney said. “I heard comments about being an oddball. ‘Weird’ or ‘strange’ were terms that popped up at times — and I hated them. They’re not descriptions of endearment the way, say, the term ‘quirky’ is.”

Roney explained that his diagnosis of autism wasn’t something that he actively sought; instead, he said, it found him.

“I was in grad school at the University of Kansas, pursuing a Ph.D. in film studies…periodically, I’d visit therapists to discuss problems that I didn’t feel comfortable discussing with the folks in my daily life. It started when I was an undergraduate, and then as a grad student at Warrensburg. I also saw some therapists for a while at UMKC,” he explained.

It had been about eight years since he had talked to a therapist, and he thought he would seek some help with stress management.

“I had wondered if maybe I had a mild case of obsessive compulsive disorder, given my habit of sometimes agonizing over a philosophical question or personal issue for days at a time, sometimes longer — or to use a milder example, checking front doors or car doors several times to make sure they’re locked,” Roney said, but it wasn’t OCD. “The student therapist at KU who was being supervised by Dr. Sarah Kirk, one of my two current therapists, told me I didn’t have obsessive compulsive disorder. He told me I had Asperger’s Syndrome.”

He was, at first, puzzled — he had never heard of Asperger’s. When it was explained that it fell under the diagnosis of autism, Roney said he then felt “devastated.”

“Until recently, there’s been a stigma about autism,” Roney said. “It felt as if someone had given me a scarlet letter A (for autism) to pin on my chest and wear in public. I felt like people would think of me as Rain Man if they knew of the diagnosis. I was in denial about it for a while. I’ve grudgingly come to accept it.”

Adults often lack the support children on the spectrum get. Adults don’t have access to the same resources children do through public school, for example. Many kids with autism receive IEPs (Individual education plans) that include different therapies, including help with social skills, or they qualify for what is called a 504 plan, which gives them accommodations that allow them to access the general education curriculum. Places of employment do not offer access to therapies, and accommodations, if covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act, aren’t always sufficient.

As a freelance journalist, photographer and editor, Roney doesn’t necessarily require accommodations, simply because he is able to work from home and telecommute. He’s a regular contributor to The Richmond News, The Examiner and Dos Mundos.

He’s also a semiprofessional musician and says that the venues he plays in do offer some accommodations in relation to volume.

“I play small venues in the music career and the music isn’t cranked to 11 — forgive the Spinal Tap reference. So, yes, I guess they offer accommodations,” Roney said.

Roney faces challenges as an adult on the spectrum. Like many individuals with an autism diagnosis, personal relationships can be a struggle.

“Relationships have been difficult, especially romantic ones. My dating life has been erratic, and the longest ‘relationship’ I’ve had was a platonic one that existed primarily through written correspondence,” Roney explained. “Trying to chit chat and mingle in social settings is another one — ironic perhaps, given I could be talkative to the point I irritated people as a boy.”

“[Autism] affects my face-to-face interaction with people. I tend to limit that part of my life because I’m more comfortable expressing myself in writing than I am speaking — unless it’s a lecture or speech, but that’s different. It probably causes me to limit what I share about my life with people, too. That, in turn, makes it difficult to know me,” Roney added.

Roney has also faced periods of depression and anxiety. A study from 2017 on autism points out that a larger-than-normal percentage of adults with ASD have also been diagnosed with depression, anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Managing multiple conditions can present even greater challenges.

“Bouts of anxiety and depression have been problems,” Roney said. “Driving has been a challenge, especially in heavy traffic. I probably rant about other drivers more than most people. Or at least I do when no one’s in the vehicle with me.”

Roney would like to see more services for adults with autism.

“Too much of what I’ve found online is for kiddos only,” he explained. “Organizations and institutions act like autism magically ends when you’re 10. It’s damned insulting.”

He would like to see more social groups for adults with ASD. In addition, another service that would be helpful is more transit options.

“At least around Kansas City, where commuter rail is almost non-existent and the bus lines stop at the larger suburbs,” he explained. “That said, mass transportation has its drawbacks. A crowded bus or train — or other place that feels crowded — isn’t where you want to be when you have ASD.”

When asked if there are any misconceptions about adults with ASD, Roney said there are.

“That people with ASD don’t understand or use sarcasm,” he said. “It’s a gross generalization.”

April 11, 2018 – Officers from Excelsior Springs Police Department arrested Jordan W. Seller, 21, at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 29 on a Caldwell County felony warrant.

Seller, who was at his residence in Excelsior Springs, is facing a Class D felony charge of rape in the second degree that was filed against him in Caldwell County. His bond was set at $250,000, cash-only.

Seller was transported to Clay County Detention Center and then extradited to Caldwell County.

On Thursday, April 5, Seller appeared in court and was appointed a public defender. His case was continued, and he is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday, April 12 for a preliminary hearing with counsel.

The case will be heard in the courtroom of Judge Jason A. Kanoy at Caldwell County Courthouse in Kingston, Mo.

The Excelsior Springs Standard will bring you updates as they occur.

The Excelsior Springs Lady Tiger soccer hosted Grain Valley Eagles on April 3. Tigers defense started off sluggish against the Eagles offense. Lady Tiger’s sophomore goalkeeper Caitlin Carder had a handful of saves before the first goal was scored, but after that the Eagles offense got confident and started scoring back to back goals.

Lady Tigers had a difficult time controlling the ball past midfield, and their passes were not connecting. Grain Valley had already scored five back-to-back goals before Lady Tigers made a defensive stop by kicking out of bound, which resulted in a Grain Valley corner kick. On the corner kick, Grain Valley successfully made a ground pass to the top of the box, where an open Eagle shot on goal and scored with only 50 seconds left on the clock heading into the half.

Lady Tigers came out of the half still unable to control the ball on offense and struggled to progress down the sideline against a strong Eagle defense. Lady Tigers did make more hustle plays on defense, slowing down the Grain Valley’s passes, and only allowed them to score two more goals in the second half.

Lady Tigers finished the game losing 8-0 against the Eagles and now look forward to hosting a varsity tournament at their own Tiger Stadium. The varsity tournament starts at 9:45 a.m. on April 7.

Excelsior Springs boys’ junior varsity tennis hosted a tournament on April 4. Overall, the Tigers took 4th out of eight teams and had two medalists.

“I thought on Wednesday we did well with our forehand ground strokes and our movement on the court, even though it was super cold,” said coach Richie Marsh.

Sophomore Noah Dotson went 3-1 for the tournament and took 3rd place in singles. Dotson beat Fort Osage, Winnetonka, and William Chrisman. Dotson played Kearney in the second round and started off 2-0 on Kearney. Kearney quickly came back and took two sets of their own to make it 2-2. Dotson took three sets and Kearney took one more before making it a 5-3 match. Dotson dropped the next two sets, which resulted in a tied match at 5-5. The next sets were higher intensity since the two teams had to win the match by two sets now, Dotson had lost the first set on deuce and also dropped the second set which gave Kearney the 7-5 win.

“The cold made it difficult to move and my first round was hard to play through. Last year my net game was pretty good and organized with the ball. This year, I think I’m over estimating where I’m going to hit it and I believe it’s just a technique I need to go back and work on. I need to focus a bit more on my net game at practice and before each match, we get time to warm up so that might be something I need to start warming up on,” said Dotson.

Sophomore Liam Greim and freshman Caleb Hatfield also went 3-1 for the tournament, and took 3rd place in doubles. Both defeated Winnetonka, Fort Osage, and Kearney but lost to William Chrisman.

“Moving forward we need to look to improve on getting our second serves in more consistently and also taking advantage of when our opponents have a weak second serve. Before we play three times next week, one thing we have to improve on is our preparedness when our opponent has a big first serve. That’s something we are going to address at practice as a team,” said Marsh.

Senior Landon Seely signed with Benedictine College on Wednesday, April 4. Seely, who has played a number of different sports at Excelsior Springs High School, will continue his football career and plans to study in their pre-dentistry program.

“I received a scholarship and look to have my major in pre-dentistry. It’s a great campus and environment,” commented Seely

Seely received a football letter award all four years. Seely also received All-State Defensive Back, All-District defensive back, All-Conference defensive back, and athlete. Excelsior Springs honored Seely with team MVP and special team MVP for football.

In addition to his success in football, Seely excelled in basketball, track, and baseball. He received a letter all four years from basketball. He received defensive MVP twice, and basketball All-Conference. Seely also received a letter from freshman year to junior year in track, along with one letter from baseball. Seely looks to letter in track again this year, as well as in golf.

Benedictine College football is coached by Larry Wilcox, who has been head coach since the fall of 1979. Wilcox is Benedictine College very own and has coached the Ravens to an overall record of 268-143. Wilcox earned his 250th career win at Benedictine in 2014, making him one of only four coaches in NAIA history to reach the 250-win career milestone. Wilcox last season led his team to 3-2 home record and a 6-1 away record for a 9-3 overall record.

Excelsior Springs boys golf team hosted Grain Valley and Kearney in a triangular match on April 5. The match started at 4:30 p.m. The weather was 65 degrees, with a five mile-per-hour wind coming from the northwest. The fairways and greens were still damp from previous rains.

Excelsior Springs finished second overall, after finishing with a 180 score. Kearney took first with a score of 175, and Grain Valley took third with a score of 208. Tiger seniors Noah Birkeness finished with 42, Shawn Vogler finished with 46, Wade Hyatt finished with a 45, Bryce Edwards finished with a 47, and junior Dylan McIntosh finished with a 52.

Excelsior Springs boys’ golf remains undefeated in conference in search for a conference title.

Senior Kim Snelling signed with Blue River (MCC) on Wednesday, April 4 and will play soccer for the Trail Blazers. Snelling had many successful seasons with the Excelsior Springs varsity girls soccer team, and continues to show greatness this season.

Snelling achieved Academic All-Conference her freshman through her junior year of soccer, softball her freshman and sophomore year, and volleyball her junior year. She also achieved Second Team All-Conference her junior year in soccer, and First Team District her junior year for soccer. Snelling is also involved with National Honor Society.

Snelling signed at Blue River to continue her soccer career. She plans to study in their nursing program. Snelling also mentioned how Blue River is close to home.

Blue River soccer is coached by David Owens. The Blue River Trail Blazers faced St. Louis Community College (STLCC) in the Region 16 semifinal. Their previous match-up with STLCC resulted in a 3-0 loss during region play. But two sophomores, Allie Welch and Samantha Berg, scored and assisted each other for goals in a Trail Blazers 2-0 win over STLCC for a return trip to the NJCAAA Region 16 final.

April 12, 2018 – The Clay County Sheriff’s Office releases a list of the “most wanted” criminals of the week.

Of those fugitives listed, Clay County also releases information on a “fugitive of the week.” This week it’s Joshua M. Neff, who is wanted for possession of a controlled substance.

If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Joshua M. Neff of Clay County, or any of the other local fugitives at large listed below, please contact the Clay County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Apprehension Unit at 816-407-3748, or the Clay County Communications Center at 816-407-3700.

The following are listed as additional “most wanted” in Clay County. Further information can be found at the Clay County Sheriff’s website, or by clicking on the picture below.

April 13, 2018 – Missouri State Highway Patrol reported two crashes and one arrest last week.

On Sunday, April 1, two Excelsior Springs residents were injured in a single-vehicle crash that occurred on eastbound 10 Hwy., east of Linda Lane.

According to the crash report investigated by Cpl. Kline, Cyril S. Mize, 50, was traveling westbound in his 2004 Mercury when he lost control and the vehicle traveled off the left side of the roadway. The Mercury struck a ditch and overturned, coming to rest on its top.

Mize sustained serious injuries in the crash. A minor occupant in the vehicle sustained minor injuries. Both parties were wearing seatbelts.

Excelsior Springs Police Department assisted in the crash and also transported the minor occupant to Excelsior Springs Hospital for treatment. Mize was transported by EMS to Excelsior Springs Hospital.

MSHP responded to a second crash on Thursday, April 5 involving a Kearney man.

At approximately 11:29 p.m., Christopher M. House, 28, was driving a 2002 Harley Davidson in Jackson County on westbound I-70, east of Woods Chapel Rd., when he lost control the vehicle.

Tpr. Montgomery investigated the crash, noting that the crash occurred as the Harley Davidson travelled off the left side of the roadway, struck the road and a concrete wall.

House sustained moderate injuries in the crash and was transported by Central Jackson County Fire Protection District to Centerpoint Medical Center. House was wearing a safety device. The vehicle sustained extensive damage.

Blue Springs Police Department assisted in the crash, in addition to Cpl. Kutzner and Tpr. Rodenberg of MSHP.

House was released for medical treatment but faces three charges relating to the crash. Charges include driving while intoxicated, careless and imprudent driving involving an accident and no insurance.

April 13, 2018 – Even though early morning temperatures hovered in the 20s, hundreds of participants gathered in the cold, morning sun on Saturday to participate in the Good Samaritan Center’s annual Tortoise and the Hare 5K. Over 350 people registered for the event, and despite frigid temperatures, most of them showed up. The race is to help address hunger in the local community.

“This is definitely the coldest one, I think,” said Good Samaritan Center Caseworker Jen Chappell, who was appropriately bundled into a bulky winter suit. “We have had some pretty wet, rainy ones, though.”

Kristen DeHart, Martha Buckman, and Jen Chappell all bundled up for the race.

“It’s definitely the coldest it’s ever been,” Good Samaritan Center Executive Director Martha Buckman said. “But it’s a clear, bright morning.” She added that the turnout was “terrific.”

This year’s race was dedicated to Norma Gorsett, who passed away on March 22, 2018. Gorsett was a pillar of the community and known for her devotion to the hungry and the homeless. In a poignant coincidence, her granddaughter Holly Spencer designed the shirts for the race.

Before the runners started, Buckman addressed the crowd and spoke in loving memory of the type of friend and supporter of the impoverished Norma Gorsett had been during her life.

“I’ve never know a person who was more compassionate to the poor, and who dedicated her life to serving the poor,” Buckman said, “so it’s only fitting that the walk be in memory of her this year.”

Scott Wilmes of Liberty took first. He completed the race with a pace of 6:13, with Ben Bowers of Gladstone close behind with a pace of 6:27. However, it was a 12-year-old from Excelsior Springs who took third overall, and although his youth and speed may have surprised some participants, it didn’t surprise his grandfather.

“He does the running for soccer,” his grandpa said. “His dad and brother are back there somewhere, so it’s a family thing.

“He always beats his dad,” he finished.

Mason Wartner, Excelsior Springs, age 12, 6:34

In total, there were 163 runners registered for the 5K, and 199 participants registered for the 2-mile walk and the Kids’ Fun Run, for a total of over 360 participants. In total, 98 runners braved the cold, with around 175 walkers.

Overall male and female runners each won a $100 gift card to The Running Well Store, and first-place finishers in each age group, in both men’s and women’s divisions, won a $15 gift card to Rock & Run Brewery.

April 13, 2018 – A warrant was issued on Tuesday, April 3 for Shanay L. Gehlert, 36, of Excelsior Springs.

Gehlert and her attorney were present in Clay County Circuit Court on Tuesday, March 20 where Gehlert’s bond was reduced to $5,000. As part of the bond reduction, Gehlert was required to report to NDS (Northland Dependency Services), complete a weekly urinalysis and inpatient drug treatment.

Three days later, on March 23, a probation violation was filed with the court and a new hearing was scheduled for April 3. When Gehlert failed to appear in court, her bond was revoked and a warrant for her arrest was issued. A new bond is set to $20,000, with personal recognizance and/or 10 percent cash bond denied.

Gehlert was arrested by Excelsior Springs Police Department on May 13, 2015, on a Class A misdemeanor charge of endangering the welfare of a child in the second degree.

According to the probable cause statement filed by ESPD, Gehlert was acting suspicious and fell asleep inside Brown’s Pharmacy, now KexRx, on Crown Hill Rd.

It appeared to authorities that Gehlert was under the influence of some kind, and left her child sitting in a rear-facing car seat unattended, in a non-running vehicle. Gehlert failed two field sobriety tests.

Officers observed the child in the vehicle, screaming, crying and sweaty with a bottle of milk next to them in the car seat. Once removed from the car, the child was responsive, breathing and soon stopped crying, even smiling at officers. The outside temperature was approximately 70-degrees, and officers indicated the inside temperature of the vehicle was estimated to be 10 to 15-degrees warmer.

Witnesses told police Gehlert was inside the business for an hour-and-a-half, maybe longer.

Gehlert pled guilty to the misdemeanor charge of child endangerment in March 2016, and she received a suspended execution of sentence in favor of two years of supervised probation. Gehlert has had multiple probation violations since pleading guilty, the most recent occurred in January 2018, and in October and June 2017.

April 13, 2018 – The turkey vulture population continues to be a matter of contention between some Excelsior Springs residents and the Parks and Recreation Board. The recent disappearance of at least two of the effigies hanging in a local park has caused even more controversy.

As previously reported by The Standard, Parks and Rec made the decision to hang the bodies of dead turkey vultures, referred to as effigies, throughout East Valley Park, to deter the roosting of the large birds. Parks and Recs stated that there had been an influx of complaints about the smell. A group of citizens pushed back against the decision for several reasons, believing that, as a designated natural area, the birds have a right to roost. Commentary on social media grew heated.

In response, the turkey vultures were brought up at the most recent Parks and Rec board meeting, which was unattended by anyone who had initially voiced dissent against the decision.

“We were surprised,” Williams said, in regard to the lack of attendance.

Kerry Jones is one of those who have been vocal in their opposition to the attempts to move the turkey vultures out of the park. When asked why, after speaking so openly against the hanging of effigies and the philosophy behind it, he said that, while only speaking for himself, there was nothing to “oppose” on the agenda put forth by Park and Rec.

“There was no action to be taken, what has been done was done legally,” he explained.

Jones has kept a blog detailing the actions taken by Parks and Rec, and his own beliefs. To that end, he submitted a letter to the editor at The Standard, which is printed in full on page 8 in the hard copy of the newspaper.

Of particular surprise to Jones, as well as to Excelsior Springs resident Cathy Johnson, was that both he and Johnson were mentioned by name at the last meeting, as evidenced in the minutes published online by Parks and Rec. In part, the minutes read:

“The turkey vultures seem to have relocated at this point. They do circle the trees, but do not land. It looks like three out of the five turkey vultures that were hung in the trees are now missing. Sherri Branson-Hurt reported she saw a post on Facebook between Cathy Johnson and Kerry Jones that were discussing locating the birds along the ridge in the woods. As permits are required to handle these birds, this is a federal offense and the Department will be working with Police to file a report.”

“I was rather shocked at the wording, though I think even the suspicion is rather laughable,” Johnson said. She says she simply asked Jones, in a Facebook post, how close to the paved trail the dead birds had been hung.

“And no, I didn’t tamper with the dead birds, nor did Joseph,” Johnson said, referring to her husband. “I can’t even walk that far, let alone climb trees.” She added that she is aware that the actions the Parks and Rec board took were legal, and to mess with the dead birds would have been “stupid.” She also said she wasn’t even aware of how many birds were hung in the park, either. Johnson mentioned that she once served on the board of Parks and Rec in Excelsior Springs herself.

Jones also denies having touched the birds, and said he was “appalled” by the meeting minutes.

“I was appalled, not so much that someone said it – people say petty things all the time, unfortunately –  but that they actually put it in writing. While they didn’t actually say that Cathy and I took the birds, I felt they came so close to doing so that they were bordering on the limits of the libel and slander laws,” Jones said.

In response, Parks and Rec Director Nate Williams believes that since the discussion in question took place on the very public platform of Facebook, there was no need to not mention names.

“The discussion of the Board was about the missing effigies, and a Board member mentioned she saw a conversation on Facebook about locating the effigies,” Williams stated. “That thread was removed, but the Board member was just stating she saw it. If it is on social media, it is public, which is why they didn’t feel a need to leave names out of the discussion.”

Johnson agreed that Facebook is a public forum, although she found it strange to see her name in the minutes of a meeting she didn’t attend.

“I did think it was weird to see my name in the minutes, but social media is public, and there’s nothing wrong with expressing a concern,” she said.

For their part, Parks and Rec have not  yet filed an official report with the police department.

“We have contacted the police, but have not filed an official report with them,” Williams said. “If they were cut down, that is vandalism to park property, which would be the reason for the police to be involved.  Also, a person is not supposed to handle the effigies without the proper permits that I have.”

Johnson said at this point, she wouldn’t see any reason to remove the dead birds.

In the end, Parks and Rec stands behind their decision to hang the dead birds in order to deter the live ones.

“Other options discussed with the USDA were not a good fit for our situation,” Williams stated. “Lethal removal, invasive sounds (that would) scare every animal…effigies are the least invasive of all strategies, and studies show it works the best to only relocate the turkey vulture species needed.”

Furthermore, Williams said the public’s response, for the most part, has been overwhelmingly positive. And he states there is no reason for East Valley Park to be in danger of losing its designation as a natural area, which was put into place, he explained, to prevent development.

As for Johnson, she is resigned to the idea – she believes what is done, is done, and at this point, keeping more effigies out of the park, or removing the ones that still hang, would have no impact on the turkey vultures, which have, by all accounts, already moved on.

“Really, I don’t see the point if someone did remove them. The deed was done,” she said. “On the other hand, I don’t believe they should be there, for many reasons. They’re disturbing, and far too close to where children play.”

As far as the missing effigies, Johnson believes that nature took care of it.

“I imagine a raccoon or an opossum took them down, in search of a free meal,” she said.

Featured image by Kerry Jones

April 13, 2018 – The Kansas City area, including Excelsior Springs, had 18 consecutive days of at or below normal temperatures. Of those 18 days, only April 5 was at normal temperature. The area averaged 17 degrees below normal for the first ten days of April, with an average temperature of a cool 34.5 degrees. The area has set a record for the coldest first ten days of April since 1926, according to the US National Weather Service. Excelsior Springs expressed a mixture of dismay and delight on Sunday, when snow covered the ground at a time of year when green grass and blooming flowers are much more typical than actual snow accumulation.

The cold streak came to an end on Wednesday, April 11 as local residents finally caught a glimpse of spring – but it’s predicted to be only a fleeting taste of warmth, with potentially severe thunderstorms predicted for Friday, and colder temperatures this weekend, with Sunday’s lows dipping below freezing.

Featured image by Courtney Cole

My daughter was in the hospital for a few days this last week. It was a blur of tests and deep scares and high reliefs and bad coffee and an endless march of doctors and medical professionals.

One woman, small and unassuming, with a sweet smile and a singsong lilt to her voice, came in often. She was the nurse’s aide, a tech of some sort. She took my daughter’s temperature, and reminded me to eat, and then took away the trays and brought in clean linen.

We chatted, in between vital checks and uneasy naps and IVs. I learned she worked three jobs. She cleans houses in the early morning hours. Then, Monday through Friday, she works for a school. On weekends, she picks up two 12-hour shifts at Children’s Mercy Hospital.

“I pay my bills,” she told me. “I want to buy a house.” She explained how she considers those two hours in the mornings between cleaning houses and working at the school her “break.”

She was from Cambodia, I learned. Her two older brothers had been taken from their home in the middle of the night. “Murdered,” she told me. “But we never know for sure. We never got their bodies.” They had been in the Cambodian Army. Her father, too, had been murdered – for being educated. Educated people were a threat, she explained, and exterminated.

It took me a minute before I realized she was speaking of the Cambodian Genocide, and how she managed to survive it.

“They didn’t allow us to eat the food we grew,” she said, and explained how, as a child, she had learned to cut bananas a certain way, so the theft would go undetected, and how she would bury the peels deep.

Eventually, she and her mother made it to a refugee camp. While waiting for placement, her mother died, and so she was alone, a teenager, and given the choice that other refugees were given: Australia. France. America.

She chose America.

When the Embassy asked why America, she said, in her innocence, “I want to see the snow. It doesn’t snow in Cambodia.”

She came to America in 1977, without knowing a lick of English, alone, father and brothers murdered, mother dead in a refugee camp. She started to clean houses, and at night, she took English classes…when she could afford them. She found love. She had three boys. She raised them and now, in the two hours she has between cleaning houses and working at the school, she goes out into her backyard, which connects to the backyard of one of her sons, and yells for her grandson to come out so she can see him.

“I never can believe I am here, still, in America,” she told me, with nothing but wonder in her voice.

I was stunned with the enormity of her story. I was astonished that this tiny woman who took my daughter’s blood pressure and brought me ice water when I couldn’t leave the room, dressed in scrubs, carried within her such a story of loss, of tragedy, of bravery and perseverance.

I was humbled. Perspective often does that.

I found her story to be uniquely American. She came here to escape persecution. Her spirit remains resilient. Her vision is forward. Her work ethic is impeccable. She is the immigrant that our country relies upon, in so many ways, and her dedication to this country is deep. Her appreciation is even deeper.

And she still loves the snow.

Tuesday, April 3

2:35 a.m., 900 block of Dorothy St.: Officer responded in reference to the resident’s dog barking more than normal and she wanted the area checked. Officer checked the area and made contact with the resident and everything was alright.

6:06 a.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Officer stood by with the ambulance while a prisoner had his blood sugar tested at the station. Everything was in order.

8:20 a.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Joshua Phillips, WM, 37, was arrested on a newly issued Probation and Parole warrant for a parole violation. There was no bond set. He was booked and transported to Clay County Detention.

8:28 a.m., 500 block of St. Louis Ave.: An officer assisted a party whose dog had locked her out of her car.

8:32 a.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Jeffery Coleman, WM, 47, was arrested on three Ray County warrants for possession of marijuana possession of amphetamine and driving while revoked. His bond was set at $10,000. He was booked and incarcerated pending extradition by Ray County.

8:51 a.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: An escort was conducted for the Finance Department.

9:53 a.m., 600 block of N. Kimball Ave.: Tyler Schneiter, WM, 23, reported that his vehicle had been struck and damaged while-parked on the street.

9:59 a.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Christopher Helton, WM, 35, was arrested on a local warrant for failure to appear for DWI with a $500 cash bond. He was booked and incarcerated.

10:12 a.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Zachary Hodge, WM, 23, was arrested on a local warrant for failure to appear for possession of controlled substance. His bond was set at $500 cash only. He was booked and incarcerated.

11:06 a.m., 2200 block of Patsy Ln.: An officer is investigating a shoplifting from Walmart.

11:33 a.m., Thompson Ave.: An officer provided a party with an escort.

12:14 p.m., 2200 block of Patsy Ln.: Officers contacted parties in reference to a leaving the scene accident which occurred in Clay County. There was no damage to either vehicle and parties involved did not wish to file a report. One party was given a ride to his residence.

12:36 p.m., 1100 block of St. Louis Ave.: An officer spoke with a party about a crime that had occurred in St. Joseph. The party was referred to St. Joseph PD.

1:32 p.m., 500 block of Garland Ave.: Animal Control responded on a report of a canine running at large. The property owner was contacted and he advised his canine had not been running loose.

3:31 p.m., 2200 block of Patsy Ln.: An officer assisted a party who was locked out of her car.

3:50 p.m., 2200 block of Patsy Ln.: Angela C. Ford, WF, 46, was arrested for shoplifting. She was booked and given a court date.

4:14 p.m., 800 block of Dogwood: An officer conducted a residence check. No problems were found.

4:38 p.m., 2000 block of Wornall Rd.: Officer responded to a report of a juvenile causing problems in the neighborhood and threatening to beat up other children. There was no one home at the juvenile’s residence. The officer will attempt to contact at a later date.

4:43 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Officer spoke with a party regarding a violation of an order of protection. It was determined the violation had occurred in the county and the party was advised to contact the Sheriff’s Department.

5:05 p.m., 2200 block of Patsy Ln.: Officers responded with EMS on a medical call. The officers stood by until they were no longer needed.

5:45 p.m., 1000 block of Italian Way: Officer responded to a report of a party in the business who had previously been told not to return. A WM, 62, was issued a trespass warning from the property at the owner’s request.

6:10 p.m., 1000 Italian Way: An officer responded to another report of an unwanted party. A WM, 62, was warned not to return or a trespass warning would be issued.

6:42 p.m., 2200 block of Patsy Ln.: A WF, 41, was placed on a 24-hour investigative hold for shoplifting.

7:25 p.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Ethan M. James WM, 27, was arrested on a local warrant for failure to appear for stop sign, by Sugar Creek Police Department. He was release after posting $100 cash only bond.

8:10 p.m., 100 block of Southview Dr.: An officer responded to a loud music complaint. The officer made contact with a party and advised them to keep it down.

11:26 p.m., 700 block of Salem Rd.: Officers responded on a request for a welfare check of a possible suicidal party. The subject was located in Kearney. Information was passed to Clay County.

Wednesday, April 4

4:46 a.m., 200 block of Veterans Memorial Dr.: Officer responded in reference to someone not paying his taxi fare at the location. Officer contacted the driver and a WM, 57, who agreed to pay the driver, which was taken care of. The WM then left the area for the rest of the evening.

4:49 a.m., 2000 block of W. Jesse James Rd.: Officer responded in reference to a vehicle sitting in the parking lot and someone inside it. Officer advised the subject was parked using his cell phone and not causing any problems.

5:16 a.m., 400 block of Regent Ave.: Officer contacted a WM, 57, who was issued a trespass warning for the business and agreed to leave the area.

6:53 a.m., 400 block of Isley Blvd.: An officer responded on a dog bite. Information was taken for a report.

7:33 a.m., 2200 block of Patsy Ln.: Officers responded on a party acting suspicious in the area. Contact was made with a WM and he was given a courtesy ride back to his residence. Nothing further was requested.

7:46 a.m., 1900 block of W. Jesse James Rd.: A wallet was recovered which was found in the area.

9:09 a.m., 700 block of St. Louis Ave.: Officers responded on an assault which occurred at Job Corps. Information was taken for a report.

9:43 a.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: An escort was conducted for the finance department.

9:45 a.m., 100 block of Kevin St.: An officer placed a tow sticker on a vehicle in the area.

9:53 a.m., 2200 block of Patsy Ln.: Officers responded on a report a customer was being followed by an unknown party. It was determined to be a misunderstanding. Nothing further was requested.

11:02 a.m., 400 block of Benton Ave.: Maurico Harris, BM, 29, was arrested on three Clay County warrants for failure to appear with a total bond of $4,626.46.

11:16 a.m., 400 block of S. Kansas City Ave.: Officers responded on a report of a WM acting suspicious. The area was checked and the party was gone prior to the officers’ arrival.

11:22 a.m., 1700 block of W. Jesse James Rd.: Officers responded on a report of a WM walking in the middle of the roadway and acting suspicious. The area was checked and the party was gone prior to the officers’ arrival.

12:45 p.m., 100 block of Sunset Ln.: Officers responded to speak with a party regarding his son having mental issues. A WM, 24, was transported to the hospital for evaluation.

1:02 p.m., 200 block of Veterans Memorial Dr.: An officer responded to speak with management and a party regarding property. An agreement was reached and nothing further was requested.

1:04 p.m., Corum Rd. and Coronado Dr.: Officers responded to check for a party who was seen talking to himself and acting suspiciously. Contact was made and he was given a courtesy ride to a residence in Mosby. Nothing further was requested.

1:59 p.m., 1400 block of Orrick Rd.: Animal Control Officer responded on a stray feline. The feline was captured and impounded at the animal shelter.

2:22 p.m., 400 block of Bluff Ave.: Officer responded to the lobby to speak with a party regarding a civil issue. The party was advised of her options.

2:24 p.m., 1900 block of W. Jesse James Rd.: Officer took a report for a counterfeit $20 bill.

2:43 p.m., Easy St. and Kearney Rd.: Officer responded to the area on a report of a party soliciting. The party was not soliciting but conducting a political survey.

3:10 p.m., 200 block of Veterans Memorial Dr.: Officer attempted to serve a subpoena with negative contact.

3:24 p.m., 300 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Officer attempted to serve a subpoena with negative contact.

3:32 p.m., 400 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Henry F. Samborski Jr., WM, 59, was trespassed from the property.

3:46 p.m., 700 block of Park Ave.: Officer served a subpoena.

3:51 p.m., 2200 block of Patsy Ln.: Officer took a report for stealing.

4:55 p.m., 69 Hwy. and Kearney Rd.: Destiny J. Goff, WF, 23, was arrested for driving while revoked. She was booked and released on her own recognizance with a court date.

7:44 p.m., 1300 block of Lake Maurer Rd.: Jenilee R. Berndt, WF, 33, was arrested for possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and headlamps. She was booked and released on her own recognizance with a court date.

10:08 p.m., 2200 block of Patsy Ln.: Officers responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle parked at the business. The vehicle was gone prior to officers’ arrival.

11:07 p.m., Isley Blvd. and Saratoga Ave.: A WM, 20, was arrested and placed on a 24-hour investigative hold for driving while suspended, headlight required, possession of controlled substance, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. A WM, 23, was arrested and placed on a 24-hour investigative hold for possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and open liquor. Diamond J. Ortiz, WM, 23, was arrested on a local fail to appear warrant for domestic assault. His bond was set at $300 cash only.

Thursday, April 5

1:24 a.m., 500 block of S. McCleary Rd.: Officer contacted Isaac Luttrell, WM, 19, who was arrested for driving while suspended and he was released after the booking process.

3:26 a.m., Main St. and Excelsior St.: Officer contacted Jessica Dome, WF, 37, who was arrested for driving while suspended and she was later released after the booking process.

6:02 a.m., 1400 block of Kearney Rd.: Officer responded to the business in reference to unlocking a vehicle with a child locked inside. The vehicle was unlocked by officer.

7:21 a.m., 1100 block of St. Louis Ave.: Officers responded on a motor vehicle theft that just occurred. Information was obtained for a report and the vehicle was recovered shortly thereafter in Ray County. Investigation continues.

8:02 a.m., Old Time Dr. and Golf Hill Dr.: Officer responded to Police Headquarters for an iPad which was found near the area.

9:21 a.m., 1700 block of Johnson Industrial Dr.: The Animal Control Officer responded to check on a raccoon which appeared sick. The raccoon was captured and relocated.

10:26 a.m., 100 block of S. McCleary Rd.: Officers responded on a disturbance at the clinic. Upon arrival, the issue had resolved and officers stood by until no longer needed.

1:25 p.m., S. Thompson and Broadway Ave.: Nancy Pineda, WF, 38, was arrested for driving while revoked. She was booked in and released on her own recognizance with a court date.

1:36 p.m., 200 block of S. McCleary Rd.: Gary Wrisinger, WM, 31, was arrested for driving while suspended. He was booked in and released on his own recognizance with a court date.

1:54 p.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: An officer provided an escort for the finance department.

2:25 p.m., 100 block of Crown Hill Rd.: Officer responded to check the area for a party going around businesses and requesting signatures for a petition. The area was checked and the party was not located.

2:36 p.m., Wornall Rd. and N. Jesse James Rd.: Christy Weaver, WF, 62, and James Barney, WM, 85, were involved in a minor non-injury accident.

2:57 p.m., 400 block of St. Louis Ave.: Officer responded to the lobby to speak with a party regarding a civil issue. The party was advised of his options.

3:02 p.m., Old Time Dr. and Golf Hill Dr.: An officer requested a report for an iPad which was found earlier in the day.

3:18 p.m., 500 block of Leavenworth Ave.: Officer responded to the area on a report of a suspicious vehicle. The vehicle was checked and everything was fine.

4:00 p.m., 300 block of Sherri Ln.: Officer responded to the area on a report of a suspicious vehicle. The vehicle was gone prior to officer’s arrival.

4:13 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Derek T. Nason, WM, 20, was arrested on a Platte County warrant for speeding with bond of $130 cash only.

4:19 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Diamond J. Ortiz, WM, 23 was arrested on a Clay County warrant for moving motor vehicle unsafely, no drivers license, and no insurance with total bond of $850 cash only.

4:35 p.m., 1100 block of Cordell St.: Officer responded to the area on a report of parties riding dirt bikes in the roadway at a high rate of speed. The parties were contacted and advised to stay off the roadway.

5:20 p.m., 200 block of Dunbar Ave.: Rebecca J. Kiehl, WF, 38, reported vandalism to her vehicle

7:05 p.m., S. Thompson Ave. and W. River St.: Jeffrey S. Stephan, WM, 57, was arrested for driving while revoked. He was booked and released on his own recognizance with a court date.

7:21 p.m., 300 block of S. Mai St.: Jeffrey S. Stephan, WM, 57, was arrested on a Clay County warrant for passing bad checks with bond of $400 cash only.

8:07 p.m., Isley Blvd. and Temple Ave.: Shylo D. Metcalf, WM, 28, was arrested for no headlamps, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana. He was booked and released on his own recognizance with a court date.

8:39 p.m., 2200 block of Patsy Ln.: Officer unlocked a vehicle for a party.

8:47 p.m., Isley Blvd. and Temple Ave.: Gregory W. Moerschel, WM, 39, was arrested for driving while suspended and fail to register a motor vehicle. He was booked and released on his own recognizance with a court date

10:14 p.m., 100 block of Ash St.: Officers located an open door. The building was secured and nobody was found inside.

10:17 p.m., 300 block of E. Excelsior St.: Officer responded to the area on a report of loud music. The vehicle playing the music had left the area prior to the officer’s arrival.

10:50 p.m., Commuter Lot: Jackson D. Minter, WM, 17, was arrested for failure to keep right and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was booked and released on his own recognizance with a court date.

11:33 p.m., Larkspur and McCleary Rd.: Dakota Zelinski, WM, 22, was arrested for speeding, possession of controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.

Friday, April 6

3:40 a.m., Patsy Ln. and McCleary Rd.: Christian Williams BM, 22, was arrested for possession of marijuana and open liquor and released after the booking process. Christian Denickson, WM, 22, was arrested for license plate light violation with possible additional charges later. Rashaad Elliott, BM, 22, was arrested on an Excelsior Springs warrant for fail to appear with a bond of $500 cash only

5:23 a.m., 400 block Hyder St.: Officer responded in reference to a neighbor bothering him at the location. Officer provided information to the caller and nothing else was requested.

5:46 a.m., 400 block of E. Excelsior St.: Officer responded in reference to the resident hearing someone screaming or yelling coming from the wooded area or another residence near his. Officer checked the area and did not locate any noise’s or any problems in the area.

8:26 a.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: A party brought in a syringe for disposal.

9:16 a.m., 200 block of S. Kimball Ave.: Animal Control picked up a stray canine.

9:18 a.m., 700 block of Crown Hill Rd.: Animal Control picked up a stray canine.

9:49 a.m., 100 block of Corum Rd.: An officer responded with the ambulance on a medical call.

10:10 a.m., 600 block of Tiger Dr.: An escort was provided.

10:22 a.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: An officer conducted an escort.

10:29 a.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: A party was fingerprinted for employment.

1:24 p.m., 500 block of Tiger Dr.: Officer responded on a child who had been left unattended at the Community Center. The mother arrived to pick up the child and was counseled.

1:28 p.m., 1600 block of Meadowlark Ln.: Officer responded in reference to a party in the parking lot of Casey’s bothering customers. The party was gone prior to the officer’s arrival and could not be found in the area.

2:07 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Animal Control picked up an injured bird.

2:10 p.m., 400 block of Isley Blvd.: Sharon Baker, WF, 71, was involved in an accident when she struck a parked car.

2:18 p.m., 400 block of Old Orchard Ave.: David Bates, WM, 42, was arrested on Johnson County Missouri warrants for failure to appear for driving while revoked, wrong plates, no headlights and DWI. His bond was set at $1400 cash only. He was transported to the Clay County Sheriffs Detention Center and was released to them.

2:43 p.m., 100 block of Sunset Ln.: Animal Control picked up a stray canine.

2:52 p.m., 200 block of N. Maple Ave.: Animal Control responded to check the welfare of a canine. There were no problems observed.

3:22 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Destruction of evidence.

4:39 p.m., 100 block of N. Thompson Ave.: Francis J. Wesley, JR., WM, 60, reported a bicycle stolen from the location. The investigation continues.

6:00 p.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Makayla Sharp, WF, 21, was arrested on an Excelsior Springs Warrant for fail to appear with a bond of $300 cash. She was incarcerated pending payment of bond.

6:14 p.m., 1700 block of W. Jesse James Rd.: Heather R. Moore, WF, 34, reported vandalism to her vehicle. The investigation continues.

6:55 p.m., 100 block of Ash St.: An officer located an open door at the location. The building was cleared and secured.

8:43 p.m., 1100 block of Cordell St.: Officers responded to a report of a party banging on the door and refusing to leave. The parties were contacted and advised it was verbal only. Nothing further was requested.

Saturday, April 7

2:33 a.m., 2200 block of Kearney Rd.: Officer responded in reference to a WF having questions about her neighbors bothering her and making threats. She was provided the information requested and nothing else was needed.

10:24 a.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Nathan M. Emery, WM, 20, was arrested on a local warrant to show cause why fines have not been paid and to answer citations for possession paraphernalia, FTA X2, and possession of an illegal weapon with bond of $1,793.

11:13 a.m., 1700 block of Wornall Rd.: Animal Control Officer responded to a report of a barking dog. The dog was put back inside the residence.

11:52 a.m., 200 block of Veterans Memorial Dr.: An officer responded to a report of an unwanted party on their property. The subject will be given a trespass warning the next time he is contacted.

1:15 p.m., 400 block of Isley Blvd.: An officer attempted to catch two stray dogs. The officer was unable to locate the dogs and passed the information along to Animal Control.

1:37 p.m., Kearney Rd. and Woods Ave.: Lonnelle L. Crowder, BM, 37, was arrested for driving while suspended and no turn signal. He was booked and released with a court date.

1:46 p.m., Fine St. and Lynn Rd.: An officer responded to a report of vandalism to a vehicle. It was discovered that no illegal activity had taken place.

2:03 p.m., Meservey Ave. and N. Maple Ave.: An officer responded to a report of found drug paraphernalia. The officer was unable to locate anything.

2:04 p.m., 200 block of N. Jesse James Rd.: An officer responded to a report of a stalled vehicle. The vehicle was removed from the roadway.

3:24 p.m., 2200 block of Happy Ln.: Officers responded to a report of a minor traffic accident. The vehicles involved left prior to the officer’s arrival.

5:18 p.m., 500 block of Elms Blvd.: Officers responded with the Fire Department to a residential fire. The officers provided traffic control until no longer needed.

5:51 p.m., 2200 block of Patsy Ln.: Tara J. Duncan, WF, 38, was arrested for stealing. She was booked and released on her own recognizance with a court date.

6:54 p.m., block of Valley St.: Christopher M. Frost, WM, 26, reported a package stolen from his residence. The investigation continues.

7:00 p.m., 1000 block of Isley Blvd.: Officers responded to the area on a report of a group of teenagers in a vehicle trying to purchase contraband. The vehicle was not located.

9:48 p.m., 69 Hwy. and McCleary Rd.: David R. Charlton, WM, 25, was arrested for DWI and speeding. He was booked and released on his own recognizance with a court date.

10:00 p.m., 69 Hwy. and Wornall Rd.: Ashley R. New, WF, 22, was arrested for lane violation and driving while suspended. She was booked and released on her own recognizance with a court date.

11:01 p.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Justin A. Stone, WM, 31, was arrested on an Excelsior Springs warrant for failure to appear for DWI, no proof of insurance and expired temporary vehicle tag. He was later released after posting $500 cash only bond.

Sunday, April 8

12:03 a.m., 400 block of Benton Ave.: Alexis M. Thompson, WF, 21, was arrested on a Kansas City PD warrant for stealing with a bond of $1000. She was transported to Shoal Creek and released to KC PD.

12:43 a.m., 1400 block of Kearney Rd.: Officers responded to a disturbance that the parties had separated. They advised it was verbal only and went their separate ways for the evening.

12:44 a.m., 1200 block of S. Marietta St.: An officer found an open door. The door was secured.

1:06 a.m., 2000 block of W. Jesse James Rd.: Dalton C. Rimmer, WM, 22, was arrested for driving while intoxicated and license plate light. Branden W. Stapleton, WM, 17, was arrested for minor in possession of alcohol. Both parties were booked and released on their own recognizance with a court date.

8:15 a.m., 200 block of E. Excelsior St.: An officer responded to check the area for a party that was going through the dumpster. The area was checked and the party was not located.

8:49 a.m., 25000 block of N. 69 Hwy.: An officer responded to the lobby to take a report for a stolen license plate.

10:38 a.m., 100 block of South St.: Officers responded to check the elevators for an emergency due to a call from the alarm company, stating someone had pressed the emergency elevator button. The elevators were checked and nothing was located.

12:49 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Officers responded to the parking lot of Police HQ on a civil standby while a party removed his son from his vehicle.

1:17 p.m., 300 block of W. Excelsior St.: Officers responded with the fire department on an automatic fire alarm. It was determined to be food cooking on a stove. Officers stood by until no longer needed.

3:31 p.m., 1000 block of Martin Ave.: An officer responded to the lobby to speak with a party regarding a possible Ex Parte violation. She was advised of her options.

3:56 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: An officer spoke with a party over the phone regarding a family member that had not been heard from since the previous evening. She was advised of her options.

4:10 p.m., 600 block of S. Kimball Ave.: Officers responded to an open line 911 call. It was determined to be an accidental dial and there were no problems found.

5:54 p.m., Corum Rd. and Coronado Dr.: An officer responded to the area on a report of a roll of barbed wire in the roadway. The object was not located.

6:00 p.m., 600 block of Tiger Dr.: An officer unlocked a vehicle for a party.

6:54 p.m., 300 block of W. Excelsior St.: An officer spoke with a party concerned about the welfare of her relatives due to threats that had been made and an ongoing family dispute. The party was advised of her options.

7:43 p.m., 500 block of Adams St.: Officers responded with EMS to a report of an unresponsive patty having a seizure. The officers stood by until the party was transported by ambulance.

8:12 p.m., 100 block of Persimmon Dr.: An officer unlocked a vehicle for a party.

8:26 p.m., Corum Rd. and St. Louis Ave.: Officers contacted parties at Police HQ that had found a child outside alone. A WF, 33, was arrested and placed on a 24-hour hold for endangering the welfare of a child. The child was transported by ambulance for a medical evaluation.

9:20 p.m., 1000 block of Rose Ave.: Officers responded to a report of a domestic assault in progress. One party was evaluated on scene by EMS. Neither party wished to assist with prosecution. Information was obtained for a report.

10:32 p.m., Thompson Ave. and South St.: Brendon L. Heathman, WM, 20, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving wrong way on a one-way. He was booked and released on his own recognizance with a court date.

10:33 p.m., 1700 block of W. Jesse James Rd.: Information was obtained for a report regarding a counterfeit $20 bill received at the business. The investigation continues.

10:55 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Officer stood by while a prisoner was evaluated for a medical need.

Monday, April 9

2:50 a.m., 600 block of Lodwick Ln.: Officer responded to the residence on a report of a stolen vehicle. It was determined the vehicle had been repossessed.

8:10 a.m., 200 block of Industrial Park Rd.: An officer responded to take a report for vandalism to a vehicle.

9:35 a.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: An officer provided an escort for the finance department.

12:36 p.m., Miller Ave. and Milwaukee St.: Larry Gray, WM, 36, was arrested on a Lafayette County warrant for DWI, with a bond of $500.

2:14 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: A report was requested for evidence destruction.

2:45 p.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Nicholas Hendricks, WM, 23, was arrested on a local failure to appear warrant with a cash only bond of $500.

2:36 p.m., 25000 block of N. 69 Hwy.: Officers responded on a request for a civil standby. Prior to the officer’s arrival an assault occurred. A report was taken.

4:10 p.m., 900 block of N. Jesse James Rd.: Officers responded to a report of a domestic disturbance. Information was taken for a domestic assault report. No one wished to assist in prosecution.

4:47 p.m., 2300 block of Vintage Dr.: Officers responded to a report of shoplifting. A WF, 41, was placed on a 24-Hour investigative hold. Shannon G. Rogers, WF, 41, was arrested on a local warrant for fail to appear for stealing. Her bond was set at $500 cash only.

5:41 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Makayla R. Sharp, WF, 21, was arrested on a Gladstone warrant for fail to appear for possession of drug paraphernalia with a bond of $250. She was booked in to await extradition by Gladstone PD.

5:41 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Nathan M. Emery, WM, 20, was arrested on a 3-day court confinement.

6:16 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Jerry W. Yochim, WM, 53, was arrested on an Independence PD warrant for two failures to appear for trespassing and shoplifting with a total bond of $2,400. He was booked in to await extradition.

6:37 p.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Trevor E. Demboski, BM, 18, was arrested on a local warrant for failure to appear for possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, and possession of tobacco x2. His bond was set at $250 cash only.

6:39 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Nichalaus T. Jordan, WM, 27, was arrested on a Liberty PD warrant for failure to appear for expired plates with a bond of $220. Custody was exchanged to Liberty PD.

7:00 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: Gage T. Beaman, WM, 21, was arrested on a 5-day confinement.

7:10 p.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Melvin R. Collins, BM, 58, was arrested on a local fail to appear warrant for DV assault. His bond was set at $500 cash only.

7:11 p.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Donnie R. Green, WM, 50, was arrested on a local fail to appear warrant for driving while suspended, expired plates and fail to appear. His bond was set at $500 cash only.

7:11 p.m., 200 block of E. Broadway Ave.: Roger Eiserer, WM, 44, was arrested for a local failure to appear warrant for Non-MTV. His bond is set at $290.

7:34 p.m., 300 block of S. Main St.: An officer stood by while a prisoner was evaluated for a medical need.

8:26 p.m., 700 block of Crown Hill Rd.: Officer spoke with a party regarding an incident at the middle school. It was determined the School Resource Officer had already been notified and school officials had addressed the situation.

9:05 p.m., 400 block of Isley Blvd.: Officers responded to a report of a disturbance involving two parties in a vehicle. The parties had separated prior to officers’ arrival and the party contacted advised it was verbal only. Nothing further was requested.

9:15 p.m., McKee Rd. and St. Louis Ave.: Officers responded to the area on a report of a suspicious female walking in the roadway. No one was located in the roadway.

9:22 p.m., S. McCleary Rd. and W. Springsway: Officer responded to the area on a report of a juvenile in the roadway. The juvenile was not located.

9:55 p.m., 500 block of N. Jesse James Rd.: Officers responded to a report of a party lying beside the roadway. A WM was contacted and given a courtesy ride to his residence.

10:02 p.m., block of N. Jesse James Rd. and Pierson St.: Officers responded to the area on a report of a suspicious vehicle believe to be connected to drug activity. The vehicle was not located.

10:18 p.m., 1000 block of Meadowlark Ln.: A WM, 29, was arrested and placed on a 24-hour investigative hold for driving while revoked, no brake light, no insurance, distribution of controlled substance, possession of stolen firearm, and possession of drug paraphernalia. A WF, 23, was arrested and placed on a 24-hour investigative hold for distribution of controlled substance, possession of stolen firearm, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

11:09 p.m., 1500 block of Kearney Rd.: Officer responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle at the business. It was determined the party was with the cleaning company and there were no problems.

11:43 p.m., W. Broadway Ave. and Mill St.: A WM, 53, was arrested for open container and placed on a 12-hour detox.

11:48 p.m., 200 block of Lodwick Ln.: Officers responded with EMS to a report of a suicide attempt. Information was taken for a report. The party was transported by ambulance.

Nina Mae Kincaid
March 14, 1934— April 14, 2018

Nina Mae Kincaid, 84, of Richmond and formerly of Excelsior Springs, Mo., died Saturday, April 14, 2018, at Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Richmond.

Nina was born on March 14, 1934, in Carmine, Ill., to William Henry and Mary Belle (Briggs) Hinkle.

Nina worked for Gates Rubber Company in Excelsior Springs for many years and retired from there. She lived most of her life in Excelsior Springs before moving to Richmond in 2009.

Nina’s greatest love was for horses. She had belonged to the quarter horse club’s and was a barrel racer. Nina was of the Christian faith.

In addition to her parents, Nina was preceded in death by one son, Stacey E. Storm; and one brother, William Henry Hinkle, II.

Survivors include: one son, Leonard S. Storm; one sister, Connie Jo Covert and her husband, Richard of Holt, Mo.; nephews: Jason and Amy Kincaid, William H. Hinkle, III and Michael Douglas Hinkle; nieces: Amanda Kincaid and Jennifer Lynn Jones; and several great-nephews and great-nieces also survive.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Nina Mae Kincaid Memorial Fund.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 18 from 1 to 2 p.m. at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. Funeral services will follow at 2 p.m. Burial will be at Polley Cemetery in Wood Heights.

Arrangements provided by Thurman Funeral Home.

Vaping is becoming a youth epidemic nationwide, and it has a foothold in Excelsior Springs, impacting kids from middle school through high school.

Vaping combines the addictive qualities of nicotine with sleek electronic devices whose purposes are not always apparent. Furthermore, the delivery system of the nicotine doesn’t result in the telltale odor of tobacco — or of marijuana, as some users add THC oil to the mix.

A vaping device consists of several components: a mouthpiece; battery; cartridge that contains the e-liquid or e-juice; and a heating component that is powered by the battery. When in use, the heating component is activated by the battery, which turns the contents of the e-liquid in the cartridge into an aerosol that users can then inhale and exhale.

The heating coil burns off residue as the user inhales, and so users are also sometimes inhaling lead along with their chosen e-juice. This in itself is dangerous and has long-term health implications. And while the long-term health effects of the actual “vape” are not yet conclusive, the general consensus is that the chemicals involved in the making of the e-juice or e-liquid aren’t good, so that even the ones that don’t contain nicotine are potentially dangerous.

The ones that do contain nicotine contain as much as an entire pack of cigarettes. They are also much more expensive than cigarettes, which leads to many younger, addicted users making the switch to cigarettes in order to satisfy their addiction.

In addition, the newer vaping devices often go undetected by parents who may not know what they are seeing, Julia Mees, Director for ES SAFE explained. If a parent saw some of the newer devices, such as the JUUL or the Suorin, many would never guess they were nicotine delivery devices. Instead, the Suorin Airlooks like an MP3 player, and doesn’t even have a mouthpiece. The JUUL looks just like a USB and can even be charged on a laptop.

The JUUL resembles a USB device.

“We want parents and kids to understand the risks involved in vaping. The e-liquid in e-cigarettes contains nicotine and other chemicals, which are addictive and harmful.  When developing teen brains are exposed to nicotine, they are much more likely to become addicted to nicotine as well as other substances in the future, due to changes in the reward centers of the brain with nicotine exposure,” Mees explained. “Also, kids who vape are twice as likely to become cigarette smokers.”

She explained that it is common for kids to be vaping marijuana, and that it’s harder for caring adults to detect, because vaping does not create the typical smell of smoking marijuana.

The Suorin Air is another popular vaping device.

“Parents need to be aware that vaping is easy to hide and very harmful to the developing teen brain. The later in life the initiation of substance use, the more developed the brain becomes and the less likely addiction will occur,” Mees explained. “We encourage parents to keep positive lines of communication open with their teen so that they can discuss vaping and other similar issues with their teen. Research consistently shows that parents are the most powerful influence when it comes to kids choosing to use substances, including nicotine. Parents need to model healthy behavior, and set a clear expectation for their child that they expect their child to be substance free, including nicotine.”