Kearney Cross Country Teams Triumph at District Meet

Kearney High School Girls Cross Country Squad

On Saturday, November 1st, the Kearney High School cross country teams faced off in the Class 4 District meet held at Lees Summit North High School. The girls squad wasted no time shaking off the chill, launching into their race with a powerful start. Senior Daisy Burnam led the pack early, eventually finishing third overall with an impressive 5K time of 19:30.

Kearney had six runners finish in the top thirty, all earning all-district honors: Daisy Burnam (3rd), Izzy Fowler (7th), Jordin Vaughn (14th), Abbi McQuillen (27th), Drew Gustason (29th), and Lenny Watts (30th). Freshman Kadence Vanderau narrowly missed joining her teammates, finishing 33rd.

Despite having six runners in the top thirty, the girls team found themselves in a rare first-place tie with Capitol City High School at the conclusion of the race. In cross country, team scores are determined by the placement of the top five finishers. When teams are tied, the finish of each school's sixth runner becomes the deciding factor. Freshman Lenny Watts played a crucial role for Kearney, outrunning Capitol City’s sixth finisher and securing the district championship for her team.

Kearney High School Boys Cross Country Squad

Turning to the boys race, Kearney entered the competition with determination and resilience. Their season had been marked by adversity, as they lost their top runner and leader, senior Isaac Smith, to a season-ending injury four weeks earlier. Just a week before the district meet, the team suffered another blow when Atlas Owen, their fifth runner, was also sidelined with an injury.

Despite these setbacks, the boys were determined to finish among the top four teams and qualify for the State meet. Embracing a "next-man-up" mentality, several athletes delivered personal best performances, some improving by nearly a minute. Cameron Fowler led the Bulldogs, finishing second overall with a remarkable 5K time of 16:20. Alongside Fowler, Alex Gustafson (18th) and Tristin Barton (22nd) also earned all-district honors.

As live results were posted, Kearney boys anxiously watched the standings fluctuate. Ultimately, the team faced a tiebreaker with St. Michaels for fourth place, with a coveted spot at State hanging in the balance. Freshman Jackson Vasquez, running in place of the injured Atlas Owen, was Kearney’s sixth finisher, edging out St. Michael’s sixth runner by four places and clinching the team’s ticket to the State meet.

Ties are uncommon in cross country and having two occur at the same District meet made the event especially memorable for Kearney High School runners. The girls team’s feat of earning six all-district honors—more than any other school—highlighted their depth and talent. For the boys, overcoming injuries and securing a State berth showcased their perseverance and determination.

Both the Kearney High School girls and boys cross country teams will compete in the Class 4 State Meet on Friday, November 7th, at Gans Creek in Columbia, eager to build on their district success and pursue further achievements.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Swift Action Alerts Staff to Firearm on School Property

An 18-year-old student from Kearney is now behind bars and facing felony charges after bringing a loaded handgun onto the grounds of Kearney Junior High School.

The situation unfolded quickly when students spotted a male with a firearm in the school parking lot and immediately notified staff members. Acting swiftly, the staff alerted the Kearney Police School Resource Officer, setting off a rapid response from local law enforcement.

Within just two minutes, both Kearney Police Officers and Clay County Sheriff Deputies arrived at the scene near the Junior High School. Officers detained two individuals believed to be involved in the incident.

The investigation moved forward with Kearney Police Detectives submitting felony charges, and the Clay County Prosecutor’s Office filing charges of Unlawful Use of a Weapon against the 18-year-old suspect. He is currently being held at the Clay County Detention Center, with bond set at $5,000.

The second suspect, a juvenile, has not been named. Authorities say the case will be handed over to the Clay County Juvenile Authorities for further review and possible charges.

Officials are crediting students and staff for their quick thinking and decisive action, which helped prevent a potentially dangerous situation at the school. Community leaders emphasize that safety starts with awareness and teamwork, praising everyone who played a role in keeping the school safe today.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Kearney High School Drama Brings Chocolate Factory to Life

The Kearney High School Theatre Department is inviting the community to their fall musical — Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory! Join the talented Bulldog cast and crew as they sing, dance, and bring Willy Wonka’s magical world to life on stage at the KHS Auditorium.

Show dates are Tuesday through Thursday, November 4th through 6th, with both matinee and evening performances on Saturday, November 8th.

Tickets are on sale now — and they’re expected to go fast! So grab your “golden ticket” early, bring the family, and help pack the house in support of Kearney’s student performers.

Find show details and ticket links through the Kearney, MO School District Facebook page.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Bulldog Legacy Sealed with Grit, Pride, and Class

The Kearney Bulldogs showcased extraordinary heart and determination in their nail-biting matchup against the Father Tolton Trailblazers, ultimately coming just short in a dramatic 2-1 finish on Friday, October 31. With the game knotted at one run each heading into the bottom of the seventh inning, Kearney’s resilience pushed the contest to the final play, where the Trailblazers managed to edge ahead with a walk-off single from Kenadie May.

2025 Bulldog Softball Team - 2nd Place. Photo Submitted by Katelyn Birchfield.

Throughout the season, Kearney demonstrated the strength and unity of a truly exceptional team, smashing several school records along the way. Kate Landewee set a new high for strikeouts in a season, Alyssa Quick broke the single-season home run record, and Brooke Paalhar established new marks for career hits, doubles, and RBIs. The Bulldogs also made history with their record 31 wins, underscoring the talent and drive of this remarkable squad.

The game itself was a masterclass in pitching, with Father Tolton’s staff collecting 12 strikeouts and Kearney’s hurlers close behind with 11. The tension mounted until the sixth inning, when the Bulldogs struck first—Kennedi Casey doubled, sending home Ellie Switzer with Kearney’s lone run and giving the team a well-earned lead.

Even as Father Tolton responded in the bottom of the sixth, Kearney remained undaunted. Alexis Sexauer’s single tied the game, setting up an electrifying seventh inning. Kearney’s athletes rose to the occasion, battling fiercely until the very last pitch.

Both teams were anchored by standout performances in the circle. Bella Trim secured the win for the Trailblazers with a complete game, but Kearney’s Kate Landewee matched her stride for stride, pitching six and two-thirds innings and allowing only four hits and two runs (one earned) while striking out 11. The defensive effort from the Bulldogs was equally impressive, with players Brooke Paalhar and Kennedi Casey leading the offense and delivering key at-bats.

Father Tolton’s defense was sharp, but Kearney’s determination never wavered. Despite the heartbreak of a last-moment finish, the Bulldogs’ grit and accomplishments throughout the season have established them as one of the school’s most memorable teams. Their resilience, teamwork, and record-breaking performances will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Kearney Chamber of Commerce Launches 2025 Small Business Season

The Kearney Chamber of Commerce proudly announces the launch of its 2025 Small Business Season with Keep the Cheer Here, a community-wide initiative celebrating the local businesses that keep our economy thriving. Running November 1 through December 31, this year’s campaign carries the inspiring message: Every Purchase Has a Purpose.

“Every time you choose to shop or dine locally, you’re buying more than a product or service—you’re investing in dreams, jobs, and the uniqueness of our community,” said Stacie Bratcher, Executive Director of the Kearney Chamber of Commerce. “Small Business Season reminds us that local choices have a lasting impact. Together, we can help our neighbors and community thrive.”

By leveraging the Keep the Cheer Here campaign during Small Business Season residents are encouraged to explore hometown favorites, discover new local gems, and share their experiences to inspire others. From boutique shopping and dining at family-owned restaurants to attending festive community events, this initiative celebrates the people and places that make Kearney a vibrant and connected community.

“When you support local businesses, you’re helping fund our schools, youth programs, and community causes,” added Jewelee Cox, Chamber Board President and owner of Tobacco Barn Farm. “Local spending builds momentum—powering the people, places, and possibilities that define our town.”
Research shows that for every $100 spent at a local business, approximately $68 stays in the community, compared to only $43 at a national chain—creating a ripple effect that benefits everyone.

To bring the season to life, the Kearney Enrichment Council will host A Magical Night on December 13th, from 6pm-9pm, with a lighted Christmas parade, Santa's arrival, and a special fireworks display to create unforgettable memories for families in the heart of downtown Kearney.

Throughout the campaign, you can also look forward to special themed days and events, such as Black Friday and Giving Tuesday, the Favorite Things Chamber Membership Luncheon (Dec. 3), and the Jingle & Mingle After Hours (Dec. 18), all designed to make supporting local both meaningful and rewarding.

Residents are encouraged to share their favorite finds and tag local businesses using #KeeptheCheerHere, #SmallBusinessSeason and #ShopLocalKearney.

“Small businesses give our community its personality and pride,” said Nic Vasquez, Chamber Board Vice President with Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial. “They’re where memories are made. This season, let’s give back to the people who give our town so much.”

For event listings, local promotions, and Small Business Season updates, visit www.kearneychamber.org or download the Visit Kearney Mobile App on Apple, Android, to get the latest updates on local businesses and community events.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story.