Bears have another great meet at Hermitage Invitational

Multiple PRs, lots of strong finishes, and our Junior High boys were first as a team!

Below are the results

High school girls

Erica Wilbers- 21:04.7 3rd

Dravyn Scrogham- 25:42.3 42nd

High School Boys

Hayden Dickens-19:27.4 25th

Brennden Ball- 19:44.3 28th

Josh Roberts- 22:22.3 72nd

Junior High Girls

Mia Sanchez- 17:06.09 21st

Airyka Carter- 17:43.3 29th

Skylar Hudgens- 20:58.3 50th PR

Alana Hush- 21:26.7 54th PR

Junior High Boys

1st as a team

Blaine Morrill- 12:47.4 8th PR

Levi Wiese-13:02.6 11th PR

Isaiah Driver- 13:46.6 27th PR

Tyson Phillips- 14:06.7 31st PR

Evan Thomas- 14:09.5 33rd PR

Eli Morris- 14:33 42nd PR

Brandon Algiere- 15:11.7 54th

Starson Cunningham- 15:44.4 67th PR

Lucas Jarred- 16:39.5 84th PR

Aidan Bettels- 16:46.7 87th

Nate Owens- 16:59.5 88th PR

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Miami Homecoming royalty

Miami Homecoming Game and Coronation

The princess candidates and their escorts consisted of:

Freshmen- Enzie Schaller and Tyler Hragyil

Sophomores- Raine Board and Cash Johnston

Juniors- Khloe West and Mikey Kenagy

Seniors- Myra Pitts and Colby Kimbrough

Paige Fairbairn and Gavin Schmidt

Dejah Roundy and Trebor Good

Kindergarten Crown Bearers- Sidney Sizemore and Aspen Dunsmore-Walker

Princess was awarded to Enzie Schaller and Queen was awarded to Paige Fairbarn. Congratulations!

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Lady Blackhawks take first at the Hy-Vee Volleyball Tournament

Out of 41 teams, the Lady Blackhawks took first in the gold (highest) bracket

To achieve first place, they beat Academie Lafayette, Lincoln Prep, Crossroad Prep, Christ Prep, Maryville and St. Pius!

What an exciting win! Congratulations, Blackhawks!

Photo by Jaime Davidson

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Butler High School Competitor of the Week Alden Hedrick

Congratulations to ALDEN HEDRICK, this week’s Player of the Week!

Alden stood out as a COMPETITOR through his effort and determination to step into the QB role as a freshman after one of our upperclassmen went down with an injury. Alden has stepped in, stepped up, and helped keep the Bears rolling!

As one nominator stated:

“The kid has stepped into a role that requires a lot and has shown up every day ready to work and prepare.”

Alden is a freshman this year, and we are excited to see what he will continue to contribute to the Bears over the next four years!

Keep up the great work, Alden!

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Butler Homecoming parade details

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Obituary - Estil "Eldon" Gilkey,

Estil "Eldon" Gilkey, 73, of Deepwater, Missouri passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on September 24, 2026, at his home. The family will receive friends on Monday, September 28, 2026, from 5:00-7:00PM at the Vansant-Mills Chapel, Clinton, Missouri. Funeral services for Eldon will be held at 1:00PM on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at the Vansant-Mills Chapel, Clinton, Missouri. Interment will follow in Westfield Cemetery, Appleton City, Missouri. Family suggests memorial contributions be made to Pleasant Gap Christian Church or Hospice Compassus and may be left in care of funeral home. Family has asked to leave stories or fun memories of Eldon online at www.vansant-millsfuneralhome.com.

He was born on June 5, 1953, in Clinton, Missouri, to Bessie Loree (Stephan) and Estil Edward Gilkey.

Eldon was united in marriage to the love of his life, Nellie (Shouse), on December 17, 1979. Together, they were blessed with their only son, George Gilkey, their precious “miracle baby,” who was born on January 4, 1983. From the time George could walk, he went to work alongside his dad. Together, they could conquer anything, and the bond they shared was truly extraordinary.

Eldon spent his early years on the family farm with his brothers, Wayne and Roy. He shared a special bond with his baby brother, Wayne, whom he loved to spoil. At just six years old, Eldon purchased Wayne his first BB gun—a treasured memory that reflected Eldon’s generous heart and lifelong devotion to his family. He loved farm life and had a deep appreciation for all of the Lord’s creations.

Eldon worked for several years at Peabody Coal Company as a heavy equipment operator and mechanic, where he made many lifelong friends. Around 1972, he began working for himself and spent many years building a business alongside George. Together, they installed miles of water lines, primary electrical service, and countless cattle waters. Eldon took great pride in teaching George everything he knew. In later years, he found immense joy in teaching his granddaughters how to operate construction machinery, and he smiled with pride each time they climbed onto a machine.

There was very little Eldon could not fix. Whenever someone faced a problem, they could not solve, Eldon was only a phone call away. His knowledge, patience, and willingness to help touched countless lives. He never hesitated to lend a hand, share his advice, or find a way to make things right. His wisdom and guidance will be deeply missed.

Eldon had a wonderful sense of humor and was often lovingly described as a “real cut-up.” He especially enjoyed cooking with his girls and helping Memaw prepare all the things she dreamed of canning or freezing. He also loved spoiling his girls with “Cheeto parties,” which began when they were old enough to lick the cheese from the chips. These simple moments became treasured memories that his family will carry in their hearts forever.

Eldon loved spending time with his neighbors, grandchildren, and family. His family was his entire world. Whether he was working on a project with George, visiting with a neighbor, helping someone in need, or enjoying time with his grandchildren, Eldon was happiest when he was surrounded by the people he loved.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Nellie; his son, George, and daughter-in-law, Emily; his brothers, Wayne and Roy; and his five beloved granddaughters, Kallie Hart and her husband, Howie; Katie and her fiancé, Brody Smith; Kinley; Karlie; and Korie. His granddaughters were the light of his life, and each one held a special place in his heart.

Eldon was preceded in death by his parents.

Eldon leaves behind a legacy built not only with his strong hands, but also with his generous heart. He will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather, beloved brother, loyal neighbor, trusted friend, and a man who could always be counted on. His laughter, wisdom, kindness, and unwavering love will live on in the many lives he touched.

Though his hands are now still, the countless things he built, repaired, taught, and made better will remain as a lasting reflection of the remarkable man he was. Eldon will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered until the day his family sees him again.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Vansant-Mills Funeral Home, in Clinton, Missouri.





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News from City of Adrian: October 2026 Adrian Newsy Neighbor

Adrian Newsy Neighbor

October 2026 | City of Adrian

Hello Adrian Neighbors,

October is here, bringing cooler weather, fall activities, and plenty of opportunities to gather as a community. From Blackhawk football and little league playoffs to Halloween festivities on Main Street, there is a lot happening around Adrian this month.

Here is a look at what is coming up:

City Announcements & Meetings

Park Board Meeting — Thursday, October 1
The Adrian Park Board will meet at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.

Public Hearing & Board of Aldermen Meeting — Tuesday, October 13

The City of Adrian will hold a public hearing at the beginning of the Board of Aldermen meeting on Tuesday, October 13 at 7:00 p.m.

The public hearing will address the Planning & Zoning Commission’s recommendations for updating the City’s zoning ordinance and replacing Ordinance No. 813. Residents are encouraged to attend, learn more about the proposed updates, and share comments. The regular Board of Aldermen meeting will follow the public hearing.

Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting — Tuesday, October 20
The Planning & Zoning Commission will meet at 6:15 p.m.

School & Blackhawk News

October brings an exciting close to the first quarter for Adrian R-III students.

• Friday, October 16: First quarter ends.
• Wednesday, October 21: Parent-teacher conferences, 4:00–7:30 p.m.
• Thursday, October 22: Early release at 1:10 p.m.; parent-teacher conferences, 1:30–7:30 p.m.
• Friday, October 23: No school.

Friday Night Lights: Come cheer on the Adrian Blackhawks this October!

• Friday, October 2: Home game vs. Versailles, 7:00 p.m.
• Friday, October 9: Away game at Sherwood, 7:00 p.m.
• Friday, October 16: Away game at El Dorado Springs, 7:00 p.m.
• Friday, October 23: Home game vs. Cole Camp, 7:00 p.m.

PLEASE DRIVE CAREFULLY AROUND SCHOOL GROUNDS AND STAY ALERT AT CROSSINGS.

Little League Football

• Saturday, October 3: Evening Games at Adrian
• Saturday, October 10: : Away Little League Football Playoffs
• Saturday, October 17: Away Little League Football Playoffs
• Saturday, October 31: Little League Super Bowl at Adrian

Community Events

Halloween Sight & Safety — Saturday, October 31
Bring the family downtown for Halloween Sight & Safety on Main Street from 5:00–7:00 p.m. Enjoy a safe and festive evening of Halloween fun with our community.

As you enjoy fall activities, please watch for children and families walking throughout neighborhoods and around Main Street during Halloween events.

August Board of Aldermen Meeting Highlights

At the August 10 Board of Aldermen meeting, the City took action on several important items:

• Updated City fees and policies: The Board approved updates to plan review fees and basement fee structures, adopted the City’s Plan Review Policy, and approved the annual Ad Valorem Property Tax levy for 2026.
• Employee benefits and ethics: The Board approved an updated LAGERS benefit level for City employees and adopted an updated Conflict-of-Interest ordinance.
• West Side Road Improvement Project: The Board accepted Vance Brothers’ proposal for the West Side Road chip-and-seal project.
• Antique Tractor Club lease: Discussion of the proposed lease agreement with the Western Missouri Antique Tractor and Machinery Association was postponed while additional details are addressed.
• Park Board appointment: Katie Baker was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Adrian Park Board.
• Public safety and infrastructure updates: The City is exploring body-camera options and grant funding in response to new insurance requirements. Repairs to the storm siren near the Glass Tomato are in progress, and planning continues for the Fire Department addition.
• Water system update: Staff reported that repairs, replacement parts, and additional training have been completed following recent boil advisories. The Water Plant Superintendent advised that there was no public danger.
• Technology improvements: Comcast has begun installation on the west side of town. Service to City Hall and the park will support security cameras at the golf range, with public park Wi-Fi also being explored.

Thank you for continuing to make Adrian a warm, supportive place to live. We hope you and your family enjoy a safe, fun-filled October!

Visit us anytime at cityofadrianmo.org or call City Hall at 816-297-2659.

Connecting our community, one page at a time—by Amanda Rowland, Adrian City Clerk

For details, visit: [ October 2026 Adrian Newsy Neighbor ]

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What’s Up by LeRoy Cook

The VOR Approach Is Gone

Free airplane washes were offered last weekend, as scattered showers moved through. For the most part, aviation went on as usual, plunging through the light precip. A total of three Fliars turned out for the Saturday morning excursion to Miami County, despite the rain.

Traffic seen moving through last week included a Piper Cherokee 180, a Cirrus SR22, a Cessna Skylane and a Piper PA-18. Local airplanes taking wing were Jay McClintock’s Piper Tomahawk, Les Gorden’s Beech Bonanza, my 80-year-old Aeronca and the Koehn Cessna 172. Randy Miller and I flew sorties in the club Skyhawk.

After almost 90 years of offering guidance through the clouds to aircraft arriving at Butler airport, the VOR-Alpha instrument approach is no more. The latest data base updates no longer show the VOR option, only the two RNAV approaches. Now only airplanes with fancy IFR-approved GPS systems can find their way here. Evidently no public comments were sought; the FAA didn’t figure it was worth flight checking and publishing what had become largely a training procedure.

I remember when Air Force C-130 Hercules transports would circle over the airport on the approach, and there was the time a C-135 four-engine jet shook up the town with multiple VOR-A low approaches. It was always comforting to know we could get Center to clear us for a let-down from the Butler VORTAC, not just to Butler but Harrisonville and Nevada as well. Farewell, old friend.

The FAA has removed approvals for single-pilot operations for Cessna Citation light jets that were certified under Part 25 Transport-category regulations. Those model 500 airplanes were required to have two pilots, but because they were so similar to under-12,500-pound Citations that were approved under Part 23, requiring only one pilot, special waivers have been available for single-pilot operation for 40 years. But, a combination of high-profile accidents last year showing poor training and evidence of cheating by designated examiners giving bogus signoffs has led the FAA to rescind single-pilot waivers. The Citations originally certified for SP crew are not affected.

On Monday of last week, a contractor working for Amtrak dug into a fiber-optic communications line at the Philadelphia approach control facility, breaking both primary and back-up cables and grounding flights for most of the day at airports from Philly to New York. Some 1100 flights had to be canceled. When controllers can’t talk to each other, the system stops. Relocating the radar facilities for Newark and Teterboro out to Philadelphia was a bad idea.

Aviation gasoline has reached an average price of $7.69 per gallon for full-service pumping, with a peak of $11 a gallon in Alaska. Butler’s $7.01 price is higher than surrounding airports, but given the speciality status of 100-octane, we’re lucky to have it available 24-seven. 

The FAA is proposing to ease the rules for wearing oxygen masks in non-commercial jet cockpits, currently required for one pilot when flying above 35,000 feet. Business jets routinely operate at 45,000 feet, and few pilots actually comply with the O2 requirement. It is true that a sudden decompression would leave only a few seconds of consciousness at 45,000, but there have been few if any documented cases of blow-outs, and the hypoxia accidents recorded have been due to slow leaks, giving plenty of time to don a mask.

In last week’s quiz, we asked about the WW-II biplanes built by the Naval Aircraft Factory. Knowledgeable Navy vet Rodney Rom actually saw one of the old N3N trainer planes during his service, so he knew the answer. For next time, our question is “Do airliners fly above the tops of thunderstorms to stay clear of bad weather?” You can send your answers to kochhaus1@gmail.com.

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