EXCELSIOR SPRINGS – An estimated 200 people attended the Excelsior Springs Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast. Hosted by Mayor Sharon Powell on April 19 at The Elms Hotel and Spa, the event brought together a variety of business and area government leaders, along with community members. Tim Harlan led the Spring Singers from Excelsior Springs High School in delivering several songs. Songs included “The Star-Spangled Banner” while the Veterans of Foreign Wars Honor Guard presented the colors. Former Missouri Supreme Court Chief Justice Duane Benton, Kansas City, served as the breakfast speaker. Benton serves on the U.S. Court of Appeals, 8th Circuit. Benton spoke about something lacking in modern political discourse – civility. Unlike now, when partisanship seems to greet so many federal court nominees, when appointed by George W. Bush in 2004, the Senate confirmed Benton on a voice vote. Benton’s remarks to the breakfast crowd on civility suggested that, though people have great latitude…