by PJ Rooks
Landmark reporter
After a cold, rainy and hard day's work getting set up, severe storms in the forecast put a halt to the Culpepper and Merriweather Circus on Monday.
The circus was scheduled to put on two shows Monday evening in an open lot near the Northland Career Center in Platte City.
About an hour before their first scheduled performance, the crew was busy tearing down and packing away equipment. Lot manager Scott Moss said that with the threat of tornadoes, it just wasn't a situation that they felt would be safe for their staff, audience and animals.
“We can't play with Mother Nature in these kinds of storms,” said Moss. “It's tornado alley for a reason.”
Proceeds from the event, sponsored by the Platte City Lions Club, were expected to help local residents in need. The club helps fund eyeglasses and field trips for underprivileged children in the Platte County schools, as well as some of the activities of Hillcrest Ministries.
“After several weeks of hard work and getting it lined out, it goes down in four hours,” said Lion's Club president, Jerry West. “That's kind of sad. There will be several disappointed kids.”
West said that anyone who'd like a refund should watch The Landmark for further information.
