Sheridan Express

Soybean & Corn Growers Meeting January 23rd

2012-01-14T20:02:00.000-08:00

The Missouri Corn Growers Association and Missouri Soybean Association will be holding an information meeting for local growers. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 23, beginning with registration at 8:15AM. The meeting will be held at the Ramada Inn in St. Joseph and the meeting will begin at 9AM. The meeting is open to all growers and growers of surrounding states.
The keynote speaker of the meeting will be Dan Basse, president of Ag Resource, from Chicago. This is a great opportunity to hear what is happening in the markets and what to look for the coming year. His company is recognized as one of the worlds leading market services.
The program starts with a legislative update by Congressman Graves. This is a great opportunity to obtain an update of what is happening in Washington and what issues the Congress will be dealing with.
Next will be Dr. Tamara Jackson, University of Nebraska Plant Pathologists, will discuss Goss’s wilt and provide a corn fungicide update. Goss’s wilt is a devastating corn disease that is moving eastward.
Estate law changes are important with land ownership. Steven Briggs, Attorney of Law will discuss changes and provide an update.
Recovery and management of flooded soils will be next on the program. The topic will be handled by Wayne Flanary, Regional Agronomist, University of Missouri Extension.
Gary Marshall and Gary Wheeler with the Missouri Corn Growers will provide an update on work that is being conducted by the organization for its members.
After lunch provided by area agricultural business sponsors, Alan Dutcher, University of Nebraska Climatologist will provide insight into the 2012 weather and its impact on growing season. Our keynote speaker, Dan Basse, will be last on the program providing opportunity now only for informative presentation but also an opportunity of growers to ask questions.
For more information, contact Morris Heitman at 660-442-3726, Missouri Corn Growers Association Board member or Kevin Hurst at 660-736-4894, Missouri Corn Merchandising Council Board Member.

Jack Remembers -- Don't Give a Fig

2012-01-08T16:34:00.000-08:00

Recently I did an article copying a critical letter sent to me by a person who would not sign his name. I had several responses to the column and published one letter written by a nice woman by the name of Judi Hale. I also published comments from the former Mayor of Oak Grove, John Humphrey.

Since then, I have received two more anonymous letters from this same person who is now also criticizing these two people.

“What’s that with your old buddy the Mayor. Wasn’t that a bit strong? You don’t know me, he doesn’t know me. I don’t give a fig if you know the President, my opinion still stands.” About Judi he says, “I’m not spineless or am I bitter and whatever the good sister called me, and shame on her. I say, she needs to go say a few ‘Hail Mary’s’. Oh, by the way sister, Jesus does see every spot because we are to be spotless.” One thing about it, his last statement in the letter is, “See you in Friday’s paper.”

In response to the following letter, I have written “Jack Remembers” since 1997, and am approaching 750 articles. They have never been compiled and I am not even sure we could find them all. We also now have a website, www.jackremembers.com.

Hello Jack

My husband and I both enjoy your weekly articles in The Concordian as we lived those same years (he is 75 and I am 72). It’s one of the first things we look for in the paper and when it’s missing we are disappointed. I’ve been saving a stack of papers with the intention of clipping all these articles out one day and putting them in a scrapbook, but I would rather buy a book if you would put all these in a book. Then I could buy your book, get you to autograph it and pitch the newspapers in the recycle bin.

Have you written any books with your life stories that you publish in newspapers? We’d like very much to have one.

Thanks, Wanita and Archie Wayne Blumhorst, Slater

Jack can be reached at PO Box 40, Oak Grove, MO 64075, or jackremembers@aol.com, or visit www.jackremembers.com

Great Northwest Days Sets Legislative Agenda

2012-01-08T16:27:00.000-08:00

As legislators are gearing up for a new season in Jefferson City, so too are the citizens of Northwest Missouri. Over the past few months, the Great Northwest Day at the Capitol Steering Committee gathered and prioritized legislative issues for the region’s annual visit to the state capitol city on January 31-February 1, 2012.

At this event, approximately 350 people from the 18-county region will visit Jefferson City to make their regional voice heard in a single, cohesive message. Great Northwest Day’s legislative platform for the upcoming event includes the following priorities:

· Transportation and Infrastructure Funding: Maintain adequate funding to service and maintain our highways and lettered routes as well as support efforts to reconstruct levees in the areas affected by recent Missouri River flooding.

Consider tools to enhance the efforts of the Missouri Department of Transportation and continue support of county transportation efforts such as Bridge Replacement Off-System (BRO) and County Aid Road Trust (CART) programs. Additionally, support resolutions to encourage the Federal Government, United States Corps of Engineers to dedicate additional resources to rebuilding flood protection levees along the Missouri River.

· Statewide 9-1-1 Wireless Emergency Services: Design a complete, detailed, and integrated plan that includes a user fee on wireless devices for upgrading statewide 9-1-1 emergency services.

· Unfunded or underfunded mandates on local entities: Local governments and educational institutions are a mainstay of our society. As such we encourage State leadership to resist efforts to erode fiscal support of local city and county governments as well as our institutions of primary and higher education.

The criteria for reviewing regional issues included legislative impact, overarching regional impact, non-partisan perspective and timeliness of concern. Local issues were collected by County Coordinators and then compiled by a volunteer committee. Those issues were then regionally defined and sent back to County Coordinators and the steering committee for additional input before being established as Legislative Priorities for the event. The three priorities will be monitored as Great Northwest Day nears, and the message to legislators will be further refined during that time.

Great Northwest Day at the Capitol is an annual legislative event that includes introduction on the Missouri House and Senate floors, time with legislators, an educational luncheon, and an evening event inviting all of Missouri’s legislators and department heads to meet with citizens from the Northwest Missouri region.

Worth County Elementary Awards, 2nd Quarter

2012-01-08T15:03:00.000-08:00

A HONOR ROLL
4th Grade: Natalie Carlson, Merrideth Spiers, Kristin New, Liz Young.
6th Grade: Ryan McClellan, Grace Schottel, Keegan Warner, Shelby Steele.
B HONOR ROLL
4th Grade: Gabe Latham, Kaylee McElvain, Lauren Moore, Tanner Parman, Regan Allee, Evan Funk, Anna Gladstone, Johnny Mancuso, Hannah McElvain, Zoey Morin.
5th Grade: Grace McElvain, Bryant McCord, Caleb Parman, Jessi Badell, Ashlyn Barnett, Abbi Caddenhead, Wyatt Frese, Kennedy Galanakis, Haley Hunt, Wyatt Latham, Issac Alarcon, Jeremy Wimer, Jacob New, Drake Simmons.
6th Grade: Cade Allee, Chase LaFollette, Drew Martell, Aubrey Ragan, Jimmy Raymond, Dallas Steele, Darbi Weddle, Will Engel, Mason Hawk, Jayden Mancuso, Drake Kinsella, Kayla Luschen, Bobby Lynch, Wayde Parman.
BUG AWARDS
4th Grade: Natalie Carlson, Merridth Spiers, Evan Funk, Anna Gladstone, Hannah McElvain, Ethan Thomas.
5th Grade: Jessi Badell, Haley Hunt, Drake Simmons, Jeremy Wimer.
6th Grade: Chase LaFollette
PERFECT ATTENDANCE
Kindergarten: Robby Findley, Kolton Smith.
First Grade: Hailey Adwell, Elizabeth Brown, John Galanakis, Asher Morin.
Second Grade: Cooper Chapman, Aydan Gladstone, James Gladstone, Molly Miller, Lincoln Moore, Rebecca Parman, Chandler Rennells, Cooper Simmons, Jackson Smith
Third Grade: Keelin Engel, Reid Gabriel, Allison Larison
Fourth Grade: Avery Gabriel, Gabe Latham, Lauren Moore, Daniel Craven, Anna Gladstone, Jenna Smith, Ethan Thomas, Liz Young
Fifth Grade: Issac Alarcon, Kennedy Galanakis, Bryant McCord, Rilee Rush
Sixth Grade: Aubrey Ragan, Keegan Warner

Clerk to Move Fletchall Precinct Line

2012-01-08T15:01:00.000-08:00

Presiding Commissioner Findley called the meeting to order at 9:03 am.

1. Commissioner Rob Ruckman made a motion to approve the amended minute. Clerk Owens changed the word dozer to the word grader in Jim Fletchall report. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
2. Commissioner Rob Ruckman reported the gas prices from MFA as gas $2.999 and diesel $3.629
3. Treasurer Linda Brown presented the Weekly Balance Sheet.
4. Lee Dumke came to discuss his brush letter. Commissioners agreed to let him do one area now; from the barn to the existing clean area, then do the next area in October.
5. Rick Ridge, James Ridge, and Max Garrett came to discuss CR 35/Elk Avenue. The commissioners explained the emergency rock program to them.
6. Road and Bridge Supervisor Jim Fletchall report:
· The road crew got the bridge out and tube in on CR 249/150th road.
· Fletchall called about getting an appraisal on the grader, he was told that the best way is to take the highest price and the lowest price on Machine Trader and average them together to get a price.
· Fletchall called Tom Weller from Great Bend Kansas about loader buckets. They have some in the $300.-$500. price range.
7. Rip, from Metal Culverts stopped by to discus tube needs for the county.
8. Commissioner Rob Ruckman made a motion to adjourn at 11:35 pm. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert seconded. All in favor, motion carried.

Presiding Commissioner Ted Findley opened the afternoon session of the meeting at 1:45.
9. The commissioners looked over the budget and discussed a new county barn with Jim Fletchall.
10. Clerk Roberta Owens presented a proposal to move the precinct line between East and West Fletchall to remove the jog that was put in place back when the Firehouse was used as a polling place. The line now runs down Main Street to 3rd street, and then goes west two blocks, south one block, and then east two blocks to reconnect to Main Street. There are no voters in the area that it will affect. The State no longer requires the polling place be on a line between the two areas. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to move the district line so that it comes straight down Main Street. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried. Clerk Owens will check with the County Attorney to see what else needs to be done to complete the project.
11. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to adjourn at 5:00 pm. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.

State tax revenues drop below projections

2012-01-08T14:50:00.000-08:00

State revenue collections dropped more than two percent last month compared to December 2010 according to the General Revenue report released Thursday.

The 2.1 percent drop is unwelcome news to a General Assembly already faced with a budget shortfall of nearly $455 million from the last fiscal year. State Budget Director Linda Luebbering described the revenue report with one word -- "bad."

Overall, year-to-date General Revenue collections saw a 1.2 percent gain compared to the last fiscal year. The gain, however, is still small compared to the estimated 3.6 percent revenue growth for fiscal year 2012 projected by top budget officials a year ago.

The hardest hit revenue area in 2011 was in corporate income tax receipts, which dipped 10.5 percent for the month of December. Sales tax receipts dipped 4 percent last month despite the Christmas holiday shopping season.

The fiscal year 2013 budget was already facing a decrease of $650 million from last year due to the use of one-time federal money that has now run out. The state budget took another hit when matching federal funds for Medicaid reimbursement decreased, leaving a $90 million hole.

The 3.9 percent projected revenue growth would bring $285 million to help offset the projected shortfall. Luebbering expressed confidence in the government's ability to handle the crisis.

"I don't really talk about it in terms of a shortfall because when the governor presents his budget it will be balanced," Luebbering said.

In order to combat the budget hole, Luebbering said that Medicaid cuts would be on the table despite some restrictions imposed by the federal government.

When states accepted money to help balanced their budgets in 2009, the federal government prevented them from cutting many Medicaid benefits, including cuts in eligibility. One state--Maine--is defying the federal government by cutting eligibility, a cut Luebbering said will not happen in Missouri.

"We would not want to jeopardize our federal money we get for the Medicaid program," Luebbering said.

Missourians will get their first glimpse into solving the budget shortfall when the Governor presents his budget plan Jan. 17. The General Assembly then has until May 11 to pass the 2013 state operating budget.

Education is cited as the top issue for Missouri's 2012 session

2012-01-08T14:47:00.000-08:00

The top leaders of Missouri's legislature cited education funding as the "must-pass" issue for the 2012 session in interviews before the start of the legislative session.

"I've been here eight years and every year that we try to fix the broken schools with a different idea and all you hear is 'no.' And what ends up happening is that we get the status quo and we shuffle thousands of kids through failing schools," House Speaker Steve Tilley said in an interview the day before the start of the legislative session.

Senate President Pro Tem Rob Mayer was just as forceful. "We must also address the revolving door of dropouts and failed policies in our state's two largest school districts: St. Louis and Kansas City. Both have a decades-old cycle of failing their students," Mayer said in an address to the Senate on the legislature's opening day.

Under state law, children in those unaccredited districts have the right to attend schools in any other district -- an issue that has raised concerns from St. Louis County school districts.

One alternative idea proposed in the Senate would to split up one or both of the urban districts among the outlying, accredited suburban districts.

Other lawmakers have proposed alternatives to public schools for students in the unaccredited districts.

On the first day of the session, Tilley added some school-choice proponents to the House Education Committee.

But the "school choice" or "voucher" idea was rejected decisively by the House in the past.

In 2007, the House defeated a proposal pushed by then-Gov. Matt Blunt to provide tax credits for parents in St. Louis and Kansas City to send their children to private schools.

The House Education Committee Chair, Maynard Wallace, R-Thornfield, a former school superintendent and principal, was among the opponents. More than one-third of the House Republicans along with an overwhelming majority of Democrats voted against the Republican governor's plan.

Also facing the state lawmakers is a problem funding the School Foundation Formula, which allocates funds among local school districts.

The goal of the formula, to equalize per-student spending among school districts, has failed because the state has been unable to sustain the level of funding increases required to achieve that goal.

Past efforts to fix the formula have run into opposition from legislators representing richer districts that would suffer state funding reductions in order to shift money to poorer districts.

A group of lawmakers has been working on crafting a new approach. However Mayer conceded that some opposition remains in his chamber's GOP caucus.

Missouri's General Assembly begins, legislative leaders cite the budget, education and business as the top agenda.

2012-01-08T13:01:00.000-08:00

In opening-day addresses on Wednesday [Jan. 4], the top leaders of Missouri's House and Senate cited similar issues as top priorities for lawmakers to resolve -- education funding, the budget and pro-business legislation.

The legislature's regular session begins just a few months after lawmakers failed in the summer special session to pass the governor's package of business tax breaks for economic development.

Senate President Pro Tem Rob Mayer said that failure has created an incentive for the regular session. "A lot of legislators, including myself, were disappointed that we didn't get done what we wanted to during special session and that gives us the incentive to get some things done in this new session," Mayer said.

Both Mayer and House Speaker Steve Tilley stressed bi-partisan cooperation in their opening-day remarks.

"In seven years, I've done my best to foster bi-partisanship," Tilley told his colleagues. "When I go back to private life, my fondest memories will not be the bills I help pass or even the fights we won on the floor. Instead, it will be the moments of friendship I shared with both Republicans and Democrats, both House members and Senate members."

On the Senate side, Republican Mayer had the Senate's Democratic leader, Victor Callahan, join Republican leaders in the pre-session news conference.

Both Mayer and Tilley are serving their final year in their chambers -- blocked by term limits from seeking re-election.

The one note of partisan disagreement came on the Republican leaders' push for swift passage of a pro-business agenda.

"You're not going to bring back prosperity by lowering the middle class's wages and taking away their rights," Callahan said.

Among the biggest challenges facing lawmakers will be to balance the budget with what budget officials estimate will be a $500 million or larger shortfall in revenue.

For the last few years, the state has been balancing its budget with federal economic recovery money that has been used up. In addition, the federal government is lowering the share of funding it picks up for Medicaid that covers health care costs for the lower income. The federal government also has restricted states from making cuts in the program.

Legislative budget leaders have warned that higher education likely will suffer the brunt of the resulting budget cuts. In December, Gov. Jay Nixon's administration floated the idea of borrowing money from the state's larger universities to help cover the budget shortfall. The idea quickly was rejected by legislative budget leaders and ultimately was dropped by Nixon.

Nixon is scheduled to present his budget plan to lawmakers on Jan. 17. The legislative session adjourns in mid-May.

Republican legislative leaders vowed that tax increases were off the table for dealing with the budget shortfall.

Missouri Master Naturalist class offered in St. Joseph

2012-01-08T12:55:00.000-08:00

The Loess Hills Chapter for the Missouri Master Naturalist program will offer training sessions for those interested in volunteer service to conservation.

Master Naturalists assist with wildlife and fisheries habitat improvements, guided hikes, special events and educational presentations. The program is a partnership between participants, the Missouri Department of Conservation and the University of Missouri Extension Service.

An informational meeting about becoming a Master Naturalist will be held at 6 p.m. on Jan. 31 at the MDC Northwest Regional Office, 701 James McCarthy Drive on the Missouri Western State University campus in St. Joseph.

To become a certified Master Naturalist, a participant must attend classes, donate 40 hours of approved volunteer service and take eight hours of advanced training within one year. Initial training includes classes in subjects such as ecology, native plants and wildlife.

The Loess Hills Chapter training will be held from 5:30 to 9 p.m. each Tuesday evening starting on Feb. 28 and ending on May 22. The training also includes field trips as well as classroom sessions. There is an initial $100 fee for chapter membership to cover the costs of books and activities.

For more information or to request an application, contact T.J. Peacher at 816-271-3100 or Thomas.peacher@mdc.mo.gov.

Make 2012 Your Year to Save Money

2012-01-08T12:54:00.001-08:00

It’s hard to believe another holiday season has come and gone; and a new year begun. According to Dr. Rebecca J. Travnichek, Family Financial Education Specialist with University of Missouri Extension, a new year often brings new resolutions to improve your health and your wealth. The new year also tends to highlight diminished bank accounts and larger than anticipated credit card statements. Are you determined to take care of your finances and save money in 2012? Not sure how to go about changing your financial situation? The website, Publications.USA.gov, has numerous publications to help you KEEP your hard-earned money and become more financially stable is 2012.
Here are four such resources to get you started:
Whether you’re just starting out, or considering retirement, “Money Tips for all Ages” provides great guidance. It is designed to meet you where you currently are in life, be it a teenager learning about income; running your own household in your 30s, 40s, and 50s; or wondering how to best manage your golden years.
Regardless of your age or how much money you have, it’s important to know about your credit report–how to access it, and what it means. “Credit Reporting 101” will guide you through obtaining your free credit report, and making changes, should you find any errors.
Normally, you choose a bank to help keep your money safe and to build savings faster. But make sure you’re alert for hidden fees and penalties, as “Bank Accounts are Changing.” A good place to start looking for costs you can avoid is to find out if there is a limit on the number of checks you may write each month or on debit card transactions.
There are lots of ways to save when using your credit card or getting a bank loan. “51 Ways to Save Hundreds on Loans and Credit Cards” encourages you to set up automatic payments from your checking account to help avoid accidental late fees on a credit card, or to consolidate multiple student loans into one with a lower interest rate.
University of Missouri Extension also has numerous resources and workshops to help you manage your money, save for retirement, recognize scams, identify predatory lending practices, protect your identity, and much more. For more information, contact your local University of Missouri Extension office or email me at TravnichekR@missouri.edu.

Fundraiser Raffle for Lauren Buholt

2011-12-30T12:55:00.000-08:00

Quest to Walk, also known as Project Walk, is doing a fundraiser raffle to cover expenses for Lauren Buholt in her quest to walk. First prize is an 8 day 7 night condominium stay in your choice of Florida, Colorado, Las Vegas, Myrtle Beach (SC), Gatlinburn (TN), or Branson (MO). 2nd prize is a Nikon Digital Camera while 3rd prize is a $50 Visa Gift Card. Cost to enter is $10 per ticket with the drawing to be held January 14th, 2012. You need not be present to win. For more information, call Rick Buholt at (660) 937-4135.

Project Walk is a Kansas City-based program which specializes in spinal cord injury recovery. For the past 50 years, everything related to SCI's were based on the principals of coping and living with injuries. However, today, recovery is an option for those wishing to improve the quality of their lives. They guide patients from the time they are released from hospital care until the patient has achieved their goals.

For more information about Project Walk, please visit Project Walk online at http://www.projectwalk-kansascity.org/contact.

Blockton Birthdays & Anniversaries

2011-12-04T19:36:00.000-08:00

Birthdays
1 Zachary Hanson
1 Hunter Walters
3 Nina Poore
4 Donald Weaver
7 Kevin Cavin
8 Jimmy Lawrence
8 Ken Smith
9 Maynard Walsh
10 Kenneth Bentley
10 Clancy Brown
12 Mary Schuster
13 Colton Hibbs
14 Marietta Cobb
14 Tyler Henson
16 Anna Laura Brashear Bradfield
16 Yvonne Hilton Hickenlooper
16 Alice Ridge
16 Beth Simmons
18 Troy Dukes
18 Brett Henson
18 Mary Kay Loutzenhiser
18 Lee Pearce
19 David Qualls
22 Callie Cavin
22 Dan King
23 Paulette Clem
23 Jina Jackson
24 Doyle Saville
24 Rick Smith
25 Sandra Loutzenhiser
27 Edgar Meek
29 Donna Melvin
29 April Reid
30 Rhonda Quick

Anniversaries
20 Paul & Francis Smith
24 Donald & Janet Brown
26 David & Judy Henry

Brad Lager's Capitol Report -- Making Missouri Business Friendly

2011-12-04T19:25:00.000-08:00

Since the summer of 2008, Missouri has lost more than 80,000 jobs. One of the main reasons many employers have given for cutting Missouri based jobs is the inequities found in Missouri's business climate. The impacts from these erroneous rules, regulations and laws are driving up the cost of doing business in Missouri, and as a result, businesses are closing their Missouri doors and moving to other states.

Unfortunately, our state is not competitive when it comes to job creation. Over the past decade, Missouri’s economy has grown at the third slowest rate in our nation. In 2010, Missouri ranked 48^th out of 50 in job creation. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Missouri’s net growth in employment (month to month) currently ranks 49^th out of the 50 states. This is unacceptable and this trend must change.

The agenda for the upcoming session is comprehensive but clear. We will work to grow our economy and foster good paying jobs in our state. We will work to reduce the excessive regulatory burdens placed upon our small business owners, and we will address the unfair rules and laws that are driving employers out of our state. By reducing the regulatory burdens, increasing the entrepreneurial opportunities, and demanding a fiscally responsible government, we will create an environment that fosters job creation and job expansion.

If Missouri is going to recover from these difficult times, we must stop driving jobs out of our state. We must have a business climate that embraces innovators and entrepreneurs. By growing jobs, we will grow our economy. By growing our economy, we will generate more tax revenue. By generating more revenue we will be able to support our state government’s fundamental responsibilities of educating Missouri’s children, building roads, providing public safety and taking care of our most vulnerable. As elected officials, we must find solutions to these problems, so we can expand Missouri’s business community, create more jobs, and put the Missouri economy on the road to recovery.

As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns. The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is brad.lager@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 422, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.

General's 15 First Half Points Lead Bluejay Boys Past Stewartsville

2011-12-01T20:43:00.000-08:00

Aaron Patton, aka The General, scored 15 points in the first half to lead Northeast Nodaway's boys past Stewartsville 50-42 to claim the consolation of the boys side of the Platte Valley Conference tournament Thursday. Steve Schulte had a career night with 7 points and there were strong performances from several different people as Northeast held off several Stewartsville charges to win the consolation prize.

Snakebit in the first round, the Bluejay boys shook off the rust enough to hold off Union Star in the consolation semifinals to face Stewartsville in the consolation round. In the first quarter, Patton was the one player on either team to get untracked as he got a 3-pointer, a coast to coast drive, and a free throw; Steve Schulte added a baseline shot as Northeast led 8-4 after one quarter.

Northeast had a problem with hacking and fouling in the first half and it came to roost by the start of the second quarter as some of their people sat on the bench with foul trouble and Stewartsville fought back to tie in the first minute of the second quarter and had a chance to take the lead. But then Aaron Patton got a steal and drive and Northeast went ahead for good, although Stewartsville was never far behind. Patton hit another 3-pointer as Northeast led 14-8 at the 4:46 mark of the second quarter. Patton continued to score as he scored off a fast break and then slipped in for another score and Steve Schulte added a steal as Northeast went back up 20-11.

But the hacking and fouling on defense continued and Tyler Schmitz went to the bench with his third foul as Stewartsville used the line to stay within four at 20-16 at the break. The Bluejays were much more effective with him on the floor even though he was not one of the main scorers; he got several rebounds and made a lot of hustle plays while he was in there.

A bizarre play put Northeast up 27-20 as Stewartsville scored in their own basket instead of Northeast's; it was the second straight night that a Northeast opponent scored in the wrong basket. But then Stewartsville banked consecutive 3-pointers to get back to within two at 30-28 before Jason Henggeler hit from the high post to make it 36-30 at the third quarter buzzer.

Northeast played much smarter basketball in the third quarter as Schmitz avoided his fourth foul and they kept Stewartsville off the line for the most part until late in the game. Schmitz was a big factor at the start of the fourth quarter as he hit from the high post and Henggeler added a free throw to make it 41-33 with 4:35 left. But then Stewartsville went to the half court trap, which succeeded in speeding up Northeast into making some bad decisions on offense and they threw the ball away; on the other end, Stewartsville began lobbing the ball into Justin Burris as they cut the lead to 41-37 with 2:36 left. The Cardinals had a chance to cut it to one possession, but Northeast got the stop and Steve Schulte, left open from the left wing, had nothing but net with 1:30 left to put Northeast back up by seven. Coach Chaim Jenkins said that Steve was a very smart basketball player and that he had the green light to take those shots in that situation.

Justin Saunders converted a 3-point play to make it 44-40 and Tyler Schmitz missed from the right wing for Northeast. There was a heartstopping moment that followed as Northeast got the stop on defense, only to have Kevin Stoll tip the ball into the wrong basket as he was trying to grab the ensuing board to make it 44-42. But then he atoned for his miscue on the other end as he hit two free throws with 33 seconds left to make it a two possession game again. Tyler Schmitz then jumped a pass at the half court line perfectly and got a steal and then Steve Schulte came up big on the other end as he knocked the ball out of the hands of a Stewartsville player into the hands of Stoll following a pair of missed free throws by Northeast and Stoll hit two free throws with 16.7 seconds left to make it 48-42. Stewartsville missed on the other end and then Aaron Patton hit two free throws with 3 seconds left to ice it.

"We cut down on our fouls and we kept the guys out on the floor that we needed to keep," said Coach Jenkins after the game. "We're pretty rusty right now, but we have guys who are smart enough that they can beat everything the other teams throw at us."

Bluejay Girls Use Balanced Attack to Claim Consolation

2011-12-01T20:27:00.000-08:00

Northeast Nodaway's girls used a balanced attack to beat Stewartsville 36-23 and claim the consolation trophy of the Platte Valley Conference Tournament Thursday night. Rachel Runde led the scoring with 12 points, followed by Michelle Schulte with 11 and Claudia Wiederholt with 8. Coach Vance Proffitt said that he was pleased with the effort except for the start of the third quarter, when he said that they lowered themselves to the other team's level. However, Northeast recovered from that bad stretch and raised their lead into double digits once again as they pulled away for the win in the fourth quarter.

Northeast shut out an opponent for the second straight game as they led Stewartsville 9-0 after one quarter. Rachel Runde connected from the right baseline to start out with, followed by a 3-pointer from Michelle Schulte. Michelle followed with a putback as the tiny but deadly Schulte girl rebounded well for the night -- six offensive rebounds as she used her tiny frame to her advantage as Stewartsville routinely lost track of her on the boards. Claudia Wiederholt followed with a shot to make it 9-0 after one.

There was a scare at the start of the second quarter as Michelle hurt her knee as she got tangled up with a Stewartsville player and came out of the game. Claudia hit another shot, but then Stewartsville began to came back as they started to lob the ball at will into Ashley Schultz, their big post player. She scored consecutive shots to make it 11-4, but then Michelle came back in and scored off a Claudia steal. Kerrigan Adwell followed with a shot from the right wing off a pass from Michelle and then Claudia Wiederholt got a putback following a steal to make it 17-4 before Schultz scored again to make it 17-6 at the break.

But the difference between Thursday night's game and the DeKalb loss was the fact that Rachel Runde was on the floor for most of the game Thursday night as she avoided the foul trouble that forced her to sit down for long stretches in Monday's loss. Stewartsville rebounded at will and lobbed the ball into the paint at will for the first six minutes of the third quarter as they got to within 21-15. But then Rachel sparked Northeast as she hit a shot from the right wing and then followed with a pair of free throws and a score off a steal and Northeast was never ahead by less than double digits for the rest of the game. Michelle Schulte followed with a steal as Northeast led 29-15 after three quarters. Northeast led by as much as 36-17 in the fourth as Michelle scored off another steal for Northeast.

"We're not going to score 70 points every night, but our defense stepped up and played real well," said Proffitt. "It was fun to watch and we made some great plays when we had to."

Worth County OATS Schedule for December, 2011

2011-11-27T20:04:00.000-08:00

December 5th -- Board meeting, Grant City.
December 6th -- Stanberry.
December 7th -- Maryville.
December 9th -- Pot Luck, Grant City.
December 13th -- Stanberry.
December 21st -- Maryville.
December 26th -- Holiday
December 27th -- Stanberry.

Brad Lager's Capitol Report -- Threatening America's Future

2011-11-27T19:45:00.000-08:00

Responsible stewardship of the taxpayer’s money should be the primary responsibility of every elected official. From city halls to county courthouses to our state Capitol in Jefferson City, we are seeing increased accountability and many difficult decisions being made as every level of government deals with the current economic realities. Unfortunately, this message has not been fully received in our nation’s capitol.

In 1917, the United States Congress first established a debt limit. However, they allowed for an increase in this limit by a vote of Congress. Over the last decade, this limit has been increased on a seemingly annual basis. As a result, earlier this month, our national debt surpassed $15 trillion amounting to more than $48,000 for every American citizen. The interest payments on this level of debt now exceed what the federal government contributes to education funding and many other essential programs. If left unchecked, by 2020, the amount spent to simply pay interest could exceed funding for our armed services. To make it worse, the same week that our debt level eclipsed the $15 trillion mark, Congress voted to defeat a proposed balanced budget amendment that would prohibit the federal government from spending more money than it collects.

A mandated balanced budget is common in state constitutions and has been instrumental in helping keep Missouri’s fiscal health from falling to the depths of states with fewer spending restrictions. While our budget process has been difficult in recent years, it has forced the Legislature to maintain a real world approach in our appropriations process.

Both in public and private settings, we have seen how excessive debt can limit an organizations ability to carry out even its most fundamental responsibilities. Vigilant stewardship of our fiscal matters is fundamental to our duties in public office, so I am disappointed that the so-called debt reduction “super committee” failed to produce any results for American taxpayers. Regardless, I remain hopeful that they will end the partisan bickering and do what is right for our nation. By adhering to simple, common sense principles that have been proven to work in kitchen table budget negotiations of everyday households, I believe they can overcome their differences and move forward in a direction consistent with Missouri’s hard working families.

Sheridan Birthdays & Anniversaries

2011-11-27T18:21:00.000-08:00

December Birthdays
2 -- Karen Swaney
2 -- Guy (Bud) Allee
4 -- Charles Force
5 -- Kathy Cottrell
5 -- Melanie New
6 -- Sarah Finch
7 -- Ralph Kobbe
8 -- Bob Young
10 -- Doy Allee
11 -- Brad Hill
12 -- Josh Miller
13 -- Icle Young
14 -- Chris Owens
14 -- Chelsie Hinshaw
15 -- Caleb Hinshaw
16 -- Adam Austin
17 -- Brian Monticue
18 -- Brandi Force
19 -- Allison Larison
19 -- Kay Rowen
19 -- Paula Hansen
19 -- Dean Thomas
19 -- Shaun Dignan
21 -- Nicholas Allee
22 -- Darwin Force
22 -- Mitchell Andrews
22 -- Charlea Lewis
23 -- Tanya Belokonny
24 -- Joe Stark
25 -- Martha Rush
25 -- Jesse Stark
26 -- Mike Rowe
26 -- Jason Meredith
27 -- Cody Staten
27 -- Charlotte Belokonny
27 -- Ed Meek
28 -- Christie Owens
28 -- Bill Asher
29 -- Loretta Hart
29 -- Larry Hibbs
30 -- Sherry Evans
31 -- P.J. Sanders
31 -- Braden Rowe

December Anniversaries
26 -- David & Karla Parman
28 -- Scott & Judy Houk
29 -- Peggy & Bob Young

Rep. Mike Thomson Honored for His Support of Higher Education

2011-11-26T19:32:00.000-08:00

The University of Missouri Alliance of Alumni Associations and Extension recently honored state Rep. Mike Thomson, R-Maryville, for his commitment to higher education and his outstanding service to the university system. Thomson was presented with an award by University of Missouri System Interim President Steve Owens at the alliance's annual awards dinner held on Friday, Nov. 18.

In presenting Thomson with the award, the alliance recognized his support of the university system through his work as chairman of the House Higher Education Committee. Thomson also was recognized for his support of higher education through his work as a member of the House Budget Committee and with several bills he sponsored to benefit the university system.

"As someone who entered into legislative service with a lifetime of experience as an educator, I have made a commitment to doing all I can to improve our system of higher education," said Thomson. "I'm honored to be recognized by the university for the part I've played in trying to help our institutions of higher learning. My hope is that we can continue to work together to provide even more support to all of our public universities."

Clara Harding Celebrates Birthday

2011-11-20T21:51:00.001-08:00

Clara Harding celebrated her birthday on 11-11-11 with dinner at the home of her daughter, Becky Baker. Attending were Becky, Randy, and Barrett Baker; Robin, Scott, Kaitlyn, and Olivia Davidson; Brenda, Randy, Shayna, Jaysie, and Taylor Dougan; Colby Wiederholt, Reagan and Trenton Hartley; Mark, Laurie, Todd, and Kim Harding; Matthew Herzberg, Kevin Harding, and J.W. & Clara Harding. After dinner, several attended the semi-final game between Worth County and Stanberry.

Grant City Approved for Water Line Project

2011-11-15T18:58:00.000-08:00

Mayor Debbie Roach announced last Tuesday evening that Grant City had been approved by the USDA for a grant/loan for its 11 mile water line project that city officials say will improve quality and reduce breakdowns. The line will pipe water from the Middlefork Water Company lake to Grant City and replace the old line. Voters passed a bond issue that will be used to help finance the project. The present system has been subject to numerous boil orders and has occasionally resulted in the closure of school.

Grant City CBC Honored for Accomplishments

2011-11-15T14:54:00.000-08:00

Grant City’s CBC was honored for its statewide accomplishments last Tuesday night as plaques honoring the CBC and the youth group for winning the awards competitions for their divisions were presented to Debbie Roach, President of the Grant City CBC. Roach said that the CBC was not resting on their laurels as they were planning to bring back a circus every two years, planning to make improvements on the nature trail once it is completed next spring, and other plans. The Holiday Bazaar is expanding greatly this year with events planned all day.
Jan Simon of the Missouri CBC presented Grant City with its awards at the ceremony. Grant City was recognized due to their exemplary volunteer work as well as the large network of groups, organizations, and individuals of all ages. They receive funding from a variety of resources; one judge described Grant City’s work as “an outstanding example of community betterment.” Grant City also won the award in 2009.

Also winning 1st place was the youth group of the Grant City CBC. They were recognized for writing a grant that paid for rest stops along the Nature Trail made of recycled materials. They wrote and received a grant, recruited appropriate adult assistance, utilized volunteers from all age groups, and worked hard to complete the project. The youth performed many other activities throughout the year as well including visiting the WCCC residents, doing cultural cooking and dance, and making a large Christmas card.

The Grant City CBC is half-done on the Nature Trail; they plan to finish the project next year with concrete. They were also recognized for the Streetscape Project, their work on the Pool and Bathhouse, and the Holiday Bazaar, now in its third year. Roach credited a lot of different people for the award, crediting former Economic Developer Charity Austin, Janice Borey, and others for helping write the grants and Ayvonne Morin for doing a lot of the background research for the projects.

Matt Berry of Congressman Sam Graves’ office was also present at the ceremony and spoke briefly. He congratulated the city for its hard work and said that it was a good example of pulling together to make a community a better place to live.

Worth County Becomes Enhanced Enterprise Zone

2011-11-15T14:42:00.000-08:00

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) has announced approval of Enhanced Enterprise Zone (EEZ) designation to Worth County. This designation will allow county officials to continue to move forward with economic development efforts. The designation will create tax advantages for businesses seeking to locate within the county and create jobs.

The Enhanced Enterprise Zone program was implemented in 2004. Enhanced enterprise zones are specified geographic areas designated by local governments and certified by the Department of Economic Development. Zone designation is based on certain demographic criteria, the potential to create sustainable jobs in a targeted industry and a demonstrated impact on local cluster development.

State Supreme Court Upholds Missouri Adult Business Law

2011-11-15T14:39:00.000-08:00

Missouri families won a major victory today in our state courts. The Missouri Supreme Court, in a unanimous ruling, upheld the state's new law regulating sexually oriented businesses. That law was adopted by the Missouri Legislature last year to limit the negative secondary effects from businesses such as strip clubs, "adult" video stores and video arcades, and so-called "gentlemen's clubs."

The law prohibits totally nude dancing and any contact between dancers and patrons. It prohibits the sale of alcohol at such businesses and requires that they close at midnight. It restricts enclosed booths to discourage promiscuous sexual activity. It requires that any such businesses be located at least 1000 feet from any school, church, day care center, public park, any residence, or any other sexually oriented business.

The law was challenged by operators of sexually oriented businesses around the state, who claimed that it violated their First Amendment rights to freedom of expression. They also alleged that the law has resulted in economic harm to their establishments and had forced many of them to close.

The State Supreme Court ruled, consistent with numerous federal court decisions, that the provisions in Missouri's sexually oriented business law were constitutional. The Court found that the Missouri Legislature "relied on evidence reasonably believed to be relevant to establishing a connection between the act and the reduction of negative secondary effects associated with sexually oriented businesses."

"The voluminous evidentiary record on which the Legislature relied to establish a connection between sexually oriented businesses and negative secondary effects--consisting of judicial opinions, studies, crime and health reports, expert testimony and anecdotal evidence--was more than sufficient to meet the government's burden."

Countless studies from across the country have demonstrated that sexually oriented businesses are a breeding ground for sex crimes, prostitution, drug trafficking and drug use, property damage and loss of property values, and urban blight.

The justices also ruled that the law was not unconstitutional "simply because it may make some sexually oriented businesses economically less viable." The court stated: "To the extent the businesses claim that the act led to reduced revenue at sexually oriented businesses, forcing many to close, this does not make the act unconstitutional. The Constitution protects speech, not the economic viability of adult businesses."

The state's High Court affirmed a previous decision upholding the law by Circuit Judge Jon Beetem. Judge Laura Denver Stith authored the opinion. Her opinion was joined by Judges Richard Teitelman, Mary Russell, Patricia Breckenridge, Zel Fischer, William Ray Price, and special judge William Francis.

We are grateful to former State Senator Matt Bartle, the sponsor of the legislation, and former Representative Ed Emery, who handled the bill in the Missouri House. We commend the many members of the General Assembly who fought for and voted for the bill. We appreciate the action of Governor Jay Nixon in signing the bill into law next year.

We appreciate the excellent work done by Attorney General Chris Koster and his staff in defending the work of the General Assembly. The Attorney General allowed attorney Scott Bergthold, who drafted most of the statute and is an expert in this area of the law, to argue the case before the Supreme Court. General Counsel Ron Holliger and attorneys Mark Long and Emily Dodge also provided valuable assistance in preparing the state's defense.

As a result of the Supreme Court's action today, Missouri now retaiins one of the toughest and most comprehensive laws regulating sex shops and strip clubs of any state in the nation. Missouri cities and towns will now have the tools to limit the damage done by such businesses to the health and safety of their communities.

McCaskill seeks answers on whether contractors are hiring military veterans

2011-11-15T14:36:00.000-08:00

U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill today continued her effort to strengthen employment among the nation’s military veterans, asking the U.S. Department of Labor for information on how government contractors are fulfilling their legal requirement to employ and promote veterans.

Under federal law, companies with government contracts must submit reports, known as VETS-100 or VETS-100A, which detail the number of new hires and current employees who are veterans. Contractors are also required to list certain job openings with employment service delivery systems and to create and maintain affirmative action plans for specified groups of veterans. The Secretary of Labor is then required to submit an annual report to Congress regarding contractors’ compliance with those requirements, and their impact on the employment of veterans

In a letter to Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis, McCaskill requested detailed information on contractor hiring practices for the past ten years in order to determine whether contractors have been complying with the law.

McCaskill, Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Contractor Oversight, expressed concern that contractors may not be accurately reporting their employment numbers. McCaskill said that requiring contractors to give preference to veterans seeking employment, particularly those who have recently returned from service in Iraq and Afghanistan, is a critical and timely issue.

Since joining the U.S. Senate, McCaskill has been an outspoken advocate for the nation’s troops and veterans. Last week, McCaskill helped pass the VOW to Hire Heroes Act, which was approved by the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support. The legislation incentivizes the hiring of unemployed veterans by providing businesses tax credits.

McCaskill’s letter to the Secretary of Labor is available on her website, HERE.

WCCC Continuing Work on Financial Reports

2011-11-10T15:10:00.000-08:00

The Worth County Convalescent Center, along with Danny Marsh, is continuing to work on the financial reports so that they can get a better picture of the financial shape of the facility. Also, work on the new boiler system has been done and the new system is nearly operational, the WCCC board learned at their regular meeting Wednesday night.

Marsh recommended some tightening of controls for the facility. For instance, someone else needed to sign off on bank reconciliation statements as well as journal entries for the facility. Tighter internal controls as well as tighter recordkeeping for the physical and occupational therapist were recommended. Another suggestion that was made was for later meetings so that staff and administration would have more time to put together records from last month. Currently, the way that things are set up now, the board is looking at the financial picture from two months ago. With a later meeting time, it was hoped that the board would be able to look at last month's finances as well in order to have a more accurate picture of the financial state of the facility.

The board appointed member Kathy Miller to sign off on the reconciliation and journal statements with Anthony Steinhauser as backup if for some reason she was unable to do so during a particular month.

Unpaid accounts were another issue that were brought up. In previous years, the facility did not have a policy on collecting unpaid bills, meaning that there were tens of thousands of dollars owed the facility that never got paid. Now, the facility seeks to collect such unpaid balances. Some are paying what they can afford and others are waiting to hear back from their insurance company. Some debts have been successfully collected after the new policy was implemented. Regarding finances, the Nursing Home evaluates each case individually and helps residents to qualify for Medicaid if they do not have it. A lot of different criteria are used to determine qualifications for Medicaid.

Another area in need of improvement was recordkeeping for credit card purchases. Bills that are paid for by the credit card are listed by the card issuer. However, that does not specify what the charges are for.

The facility had their annual state inspection and there were only two deficiencies noted by the state as opposed to 24 last year.

Administrator Karen Fletchall reported that there was flooring work to do in order to improve the appearance of the facility.

The facility is seeking to take residents on outings as long as possible until the winter weather kicks in. Residents went to the Worth Treatin' event for Halloween and a lot of people stopped by for Halloween on October 31st. The Learning Academy students came by and they referred to the place as "our nursing home." The facility is also planning a shopping experience for its residents as well as a Thanksgiving Day dinner.

Ideas were floated around for improving the therapy area so that the experience for patients would be improved. There were also plans to improve the nurses' area.

Gas usage was up 7.8% from last year while water usage was also up. However, electricity usage by the facility was down from last year.

FCCLA, FFA Host Blood Drive

2011-11-08T10:33:00.000-08:00

On October 10, 2011 the Worth County FCCLA and the Worth County FFA combined efforts to host a blood drive. The FCCLA and FFA wanted to help their community and partnering with the Red Cross would be a great way to do this. FFA students signed up high school students who wanted to give blood. The FACS I class was also able to participate and get involved through phoning past donors and scheduling appointments, and baking refreshments for the donors. The 33 units that were given during the blood drive surpassed the amount given last year. We would like to thank the first time high school students as well as the community for participating and making this event so successful.

Jack Remembers -- Memorable Election

2011-11-08T09:27:00.000-08:00

In 1966, Jackson County was debt free, had a AAA credit rating, and the lowest tax rate of any county its size in the United States. The powers to be in Kansas City headed by Charles Curry, the Presiding Judge and a millionaire himself, gathered up a million dollars for the purpose of taking control of Jackson County and its bonding capacity. Charlie hired President Kennedy’s campaign manager and a local political consultant by the name of Jerry Jett to run the campaign. He put together a full slate of candidates which was a problem since no one thought he had a chance of beating the incumbents and all the factions in Jackson County. Curry pulled in to a filling station one day to fill up with gas and talked the proprietor into being his State Representative candidate in that district even though the proprietor had never even been to Jefferson City.
He called his organization the CCP (Committee for County Progress) and ran the perfect campaign. The White Hats (his organization) against the Black Hats (the factions and incumbents). In that primary election, the CCP won every office except the Public Administrator, William S. (Bill) Morris, who would later be Lt. Governor.
Curry’s Prosecuting Attorney candidate Joe Teasdale’s opponent in the primary accused him of having never been in court or trying a case. But after winning, Joe started receiving checks in the mail from lawyers who had backed the wrong candidate. Joe contacted Jerry Jett and told him his secretary was signing the checks and putting them in the bank. He then asked Jerry “Is that legal?” Jerry responded “How the h#*#* should I know. You are the future Prosecuting Attorney.”
Within two years after this memorable election, Jackson County would break ground on two new sports stadiums have over a dozen new parks, and be in debt over a hundred million dollars.
Jack can be reached at PO Box 40, Oak Grove, MO 64075 or jackremembers@aol.com. www.jackremembers.com

53 Attend FCCLA Meeting

2011-11-08T09:03:00.000-08:00

On October 12th, 2011, fifty three members of the Worth County FCCLA attended the regional meeting in Maryville, Missouri. The event was held by Northwest Missouri State University, and the Region 1 Officers in the Ron Houston Performing Arts Center. The theme of the meeting was “Share Our Strength – Max Out With FCCLA.” The 53 attending members were able to raise $106 to donate to Region 1 Disaster Support, to help flood victims in our area and to Share Our Strength to help end hunger in the U.S. The keynote speaker for the event was Dr. Tim Crowley, a professor at Northwest who talked about your emotions and how they affect other people.
Two members of the Worth County chapter of FCCLA, Taylor Butcher and Alaina Freeman, were a part of the Region 1 officers who helped plan the meeting. Taylor Butcher made a slideshow for the event that included pictures of what several Region 1 chapters had been doing in the past year. Alaina Freeman selected and read the devotional for the meeting. The meeting benefitted all FCCLA members, and was a great experience for Taylor and Alaina. Worth County students are very proud of their Region 1 officers!

Causes of Arthritis and Options for Relief

2011-11-08T08:44:00.000-08:00

Causes of Arthritis and Options for Relief
By Janet Hackert, Regional Nutrition and Health Education Specialist
Arthritis affects close to 30 million Americans and can cause serious pain and discomfort. Fortunately, there are things a person can do to alleviate some of the symptoms. Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain and stiffness. This discomfort tends to be greater in the morning or after a period of inactivity.
In a normal joint, there is cartilage between the bones to serve as a sort of shock absorber and allows the bones to move freely past each other as the joint is bent and straightened. There is also a synovial membrane that secretes a fluid that lubricates the joint and keeps the cartilage healthy. With arthritis, one or the other of these is not functioning properly.
The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is when the cartilage between bones in a joint wears away leaving bone to rub against bone. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the synovial membrane becomes inflamed. This inflammation can cause pain and swelling.
Certain factors increase the risk of developing arthritis. Some types are hereditary so family history increases risk. The older a person is, the higher the risk. Women are more likely to get rheumatoid arthritis than men. Previous joint injury can lead to arthritis in the effected joint. Obese people who carry a large amount of extra weight put added stress on joints, increasing their risk for arthritis.
Although there are medications that may help reduce symptoms, there are also lifestyle changes. Applying hot or cold packs may help sometimes. Losing excess weight in someone who is obese relieves the joints of the extra burden those pounds cause. And exercise can help keep joints flexible and lower discomfort.
Different types of exercise work best for different kinds of arthritis. For osteoarthritis, water aerobics, swimming, and muscle-strengthening exercises keep joints flexible and muscles properly helping out the body’s structure. For rheumatoid arthritis, it helps to carefully move each joint through its full range of motion each day. Move arthritic joints periodically throughout the day and change positions from time to time when resting to avoid stiffness. And be sure to consult your health care team before starting any new exercise routine.

Eight Tigers Named to All Conference Squad

2011-11-08T08:42:00.000-08:00

Eight Tigers were named to the all-275 squad this year; seven were named to the first team and one was named to the second team. Named to the offensive squad were Eli Mullock (runningback), Kevin Stoll (offensive line), and Dallas Greenland (all purpose back). Stoll became the first Northeast Nodaway student in school history to be so named.
On the other side of the ball Lane Craven was named to the defensive squad; he was the only sophomore named to the first team squad. Also named were Jordan Harding (defensive line/linebacker), Dallas Greenland (linebacker), and Eli Mullock (defensive back). Eli was a unanimous selection for both offense and defense.
Bryce Ross was named to the second team as quarterback.

$990,000 Estimated Price Tag for Sheridan Water Project

2011-11-07T22:02:00.000-08:00

The Sheridan City Council learned that it would cost around $990,000 total, including all of the administrative costs, to overhaul its water system. The old water system was put in around 1950 at a cost of around $50,000 and has lasted 60 years. However, the alternative for the city is to keep on as it is with the recurring mechanical problems that the aging water facility is facing.
The council paid its $2,350 share of the preliminary Engineering Report conducted by Snyder, which included a map of the waterways and an overview of the project. Work is nearly complete on the report subject to council approval. The estimated $1.225 million includes the $101,000 that the city would have to pay in order to complete the emergency hookup with the Rural Water District west of town. Also, the city would need to raise its water rates to $33.93 per 5000 gallons and would have to raise its 2000 gallon rate as well; in what amounts to a backdoor tax increase, the city must raise the rates in order to meet obligations incurred in the water line project. The price tag also includes basic equipment such as needed fire hydrants and water meters.
The price tag also included a demolition of the present water plant; however, it was the consensus of the Sheridan City Council that the city keep the plant operational for as long as possible. The $990,000 figure does not include administrative costs such as audits, contingencies, and other such things. One possibility would be a bond issue; the city would then take out a bridge loan until the USDA sold the city’s bonds if the city were to pass one.
Instead of the present water mains, the city would have 6” mains for the most part to accommodate the fire hydrants. The city would need to build a savings fund in order to meet any unexpected expenses. The report includes a map of the new water lines as well as possible sewer lines if the city decides to upgrade its sewer system after the water project is finished.
The tower would not be raised or lowered and the USDA would likely not pay for water meters unless it is for existing customers. Pressure would be much better than before, which would lead to fewer breaks; main breaks and boil orders have been a recurring problem over the last few years.
Under the plan, there would be more fire hydrants placed around town. That would lower homeowners insurance rates since more people would be living next to one. If there were a break, the plan would allow Sheridan to fix it without shutting down the whole water system, which is a recurring problem with the present system.
Problems continued to plague the present system. Water Superintendent David Parman reported that a valve near MFA would not shut off and that he had to put in a new one. A fire hydrant near Charlie Haun’s was removed; if it hadn’t, Parman said it would have wreaked havoc on the system during winter by spraying water all over the place. Another time, the pumps to the wells would not kick on; Parman reported that he and John Stephenson fixed it. However, it broke down again; luckily, Parman was able to find Charles Warner, who was able to find the problem and create a temporary fix until he could order new parts. The breaker had broken and had worn clear out. Stanley Hensley’s cold water was plugging up; the city will call Tracy Constant.
The city has been filling potholes in the streets.
The council voted to take a step towards meeting requirements for the water project by raising water rates by $1 per gallon effective January 1st, 2012.
Mayor Leland Wake said that the city was in no hurry to get the project completed and that it could take as long as 2-3 years for the project to be completed.

Tigers Advance Past NW/Hughesville in Playoffs

2011-11-06T17:49:00.001-08:00

Worth County's Tigers advanced past Northwest of Hughesville in the first round of the playoffs 72-20, setting up a rematch with Stanberry. The Bulldogs fell behind early against Hardin-Central, but came back to win 32-20 to set up the rematch. The game will be played at Worth County Friday at 7:00. The winner will go on to St. Louis to play either Mound City or St. Joseph Christian. Mound City had a surprisingly hard time putting away Southwest Livingston before they won 62-38 while Christian, coming off their first regular unbeaten season in school history, easily took care of South Holt 55-0 at halftime.

Hughesville featured a conventional defensive front, but they had multiple offensive formations, including the swinging gate. That forced Worth County to use new players and play others out of position; for instance, freshman Cole Parman and sophomore Andrew Mullock both saw their first extended varsity playing time of the year. Kevin Stoll, normally on the line, had to play pass coverage at times. They had to drop back so many in pass coverage that the challenge was to find enough people to generate pressure on standout quarterback Cortlen Austin. Austin, who is only a sophomore, will undoubtedly be back for the Mustangs, which made the playoffs for the first time in school history. But they had nobody who could match up with Eli Mullock and they struggled in the red zone like many other teams playing the Tigers this year. Worth County has bent all year, even against the tailenders; however, they have not broken.

The Mustangs kicked off and Eli Mullock ran through three defenders down the left side and outran everyone for a 79 yard score as Worth County struck first. Dallas Greenland caught a pass in the back of the end zone for the extra points. Jordan Harding picked up an interception on Hughesville's first play of the game, but fumbled it right back. Northwest, which stymied itself by penalties all night, got in a hole thanks to a holding penalty and was forced to punt as Worth County went three and out. The ensuing kick was shanked out of bounds and Worth County had a short field to work with at the Mustang 30. Bryce Ross took a draw and belted a defender on his way to 10 yards to the 20. On the next play, a Hughesville defender shot through and apparently stopped Eli for a loss, but he broke the tackle and ran in untouched for the score. Dallas Greenland ran through a big hole opened by the left side of the line to make it 16-0 with 9:37 left.

Northwest went to their short passing game out of the gate as Worth County was still figuring out how to cover it and marched to the Tiger 29 on the next series. But then Quincy Wicker slipped and fell on first down for a loss. Hughesville tried to air it out, but misfired and Jordan Harding broke up the next pass to set up fourth down. Bryson Scott rung Austin's bell and Worth County took over on downs at their own 27.

The middle was solid for Hughesville, but the edges were a liability as Worth County was able to go outside on them all night long. Worth County was faced with third and seven, but then Aaron Patton caught a bubble screen and outran some defenders for 19 yards to the Mustang 31. Eli then broke several tackles as he made his way to the 24 and then an offsides penalty gave Worth County a first down on the 19. Eli picked up seven more to the 12 and then Dallas Greenland took a trap play to the house from 12 yards out with 5:51 left to make it 22-0.

Hughesville buried themselves at their own 10 on the ensuing kickoff and were backed up to their own 2 by a pair of false starts, but then they aired it out to Tristen Reece for 59 yards to the Tiger 19 to set up their lone score against the varsity. A pair of scrambles by Austin got them another first down at the 10 and then Jordan Harding slipped and fell as Zach Miller caught a pass in the end zone from 8 yards out to make it 22-6 with 3:22 left.

Worth County was faced with third and five on their next series and a three and out would have given Northwest a chance to change the character of the game and make it a one possession game with a score. But then Eli outran everyone on a sweep and scored from 46 yards out with 2:03 left to make it 28-6 to kill their momentum.

Austin scrambled for a first down at the Tiger 38 to rescue a third and 10, but four straight incompletions followed. Dalton Welch knocked him down on the first play and Lane Craven, Eli Mullock, and Jordan Harding all had pass breakups on the next three plays as they gave up the ball on downs.

Aaron Patton got blocks from Kevin Stoll and Jordan Harding on a bubble screen for 14 yards to the Hughesville 28 and then Eli Mullock ran right through some would-be tacklers for a touchdown on the final play of the first quarter. Eli picked up blocks from Logan Ridge and Dallas Greenland for the extra points to make it 36-6.

The game snowballed from there as Hughesville buried themselves on their own 10 on the ensuing kickoff and then a mixup on the handoff resulted in a fumble recovered by Kevin Stoll at the Northwest 11. Worth County backed themselves up with a false start and a 3-yard loss, but then Aaron Patton's catch and run for 19 yards put Worth County on the board again with 10:20 left in the half. Dallas Greenland ran in the extra points to make it 44-6.

Hughesville got a long pass to Zach Miller to the Tiger 37, but on the very next play, Dalton Welch hit Austin, who threw a strike to Dallas Greenland for a pick. Bryce Ross ran through a big hole for 31 yards to the 14 and then Dallas Greenland picked up a fumble and ran it for positive yardage down to the 10. Eli Mullock caught a short pass for seven yards to the three and then scored with 8 minutes left. Eli then spun his way into the end zone for the extra points to make it 52-6.

Northwest wanted to score one more time before halftime and kill the running clock and got a 44-yard run from Wally Nicholson to get into Tiger territory at the 26. But the Tigers would make a goal line stand. A pass interference penalty placed the ball on the 12 and Austin scrambled for two to the 10 and Andrew Underwood caught a 9-yard pass to the 1. But then Dalton Welch stopped Underwood short of the goal line and then Bryson Scott broke up a pass to set up third and goal. Dallas Greenland, Tyler Schmitz, and Lane Craven gang-tackled Austin and knocked him out of the game briefly and Tyler Schmitz stopped a shovel pass to Underwood for no gain to give the Tigers the ball on downs at their own three. They only needed one play to score as Eli juked two defenders and was gone for a 77-yard run to make it 60-6.

The Mustangs drove against Worth County's JV right before the half and scored with 13 yards left on a 10-yard pass to Underwood to make it 60-12. Hughesville, obviously trying to score a bunch of points against the Tiger JV, elected to play on in the second half and left their starters in; however, the JV was up to the task, outplaying them in the frame and picking up a couple of scores of their own. The first was set up when Andrew Mullock scooped up a short punt in traffic and returned it all the way to the Hughesville 31. Cole Parman aired it out to Aaron Patton for 22 yards and the Tigers were on the board. The Mustangs drove to the Tiger 9 on the next series, but they stalled and long runs from Cole Parman of 17 yards and Andrew Faustlin for 24 set up Worth County's final score as Faustlin got blocks from Dakota Owsley and Andrew Mullock to score from 7 yards out with 9:01 left in the game.

Emergency Loans for Summer Droughts

2011-11-05T17:18:00.000-07:00

Mr. Edward Hamill, State Executive Director, Farm Service Agency, announced effective October 17, 2011, 111 counties including Worth as well as the Independent City of St. Louis will have FSA disaster loans available due to drought and excessive heat which occurred July 1, 2011 and August 30, 2011. Applications for assistance will be accepted at the county office of the Worth County Farm Service Agency on the north side of the square for physical and production losses caused by this disaster. Applications will be accepted through June 18, 2012.

Loans for physical losses must be used to replace or repair damage to buildings, fences, or to compensate the farmer for losses of basic livestock, stored crops, or supplies on hand, equipment, etc., that was lost due to the disaster. Loans for production losses may also be used to buy feed, seed, fertilizer, and livestock or to make payments on real estate or chattel debts. Generally, loans for production losses cannot be approved until crops have completed their production cycle or have been harvested.

In order to qualify, a farmer must have suffered a 30% loss in production or an actual physical loss that was essential to the successful operation of the farm.

Loans for actual losses are made at an interest rate of 3.75% for emergency loans to those eligible applicants who are unable to obtain the credit needed from another source. All loan programs of the Farm Service Agency are conducted on a non-discriminatory basis.

County Commission Minutes -- Wireless Internet Not Available at Courthouse

2011-11-01T10:45:00.000-07:00

Presiding Commissioner Findley called the meeting to order at 9:02 am.

1. Commissioner Rob Ruckman made a motion to approve the agenda and minutes. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
2. Treasurer Linda Brown presented the weekly balance sheet.
3. Commissioner Rob Ruckman reported the gas prices from MFA as gas $3.259 and diesel $3.659
4. Bridget Gibson from the Times Tribune asked why people could no longer hook up to the Courthouse wireless internet. She said people had been coming into her office complaining that they could no longer get access. County Clerk Roberta Owens explained that due to security reasons she had Midwest Data install a wireless inscription key. Owens explained to Gibson and the Commissioners that the Courthouse needs to be secure, therefore the Courthouses internet service will no longer be assessable by the general public. No action was taken.
5. Jerri Dearmont from the Northwest Regional Council of Governments came to take care of the paperwork for the State final review and closeout of Grant # 139388 of the 3 bridges is Allen Township (195,172,185). Commissioner Findley signed the Certification of Completion, the Applicant Disclosure Report, and the Amendment Request paperwork. The Grant Total was $134,991.75 with a county in kind match of $77,000.
6. Terry and Janet Larison came to discuss the closing of CR 16E. They will continue with the road vacation process.
7. Road and Bridge Foreman Jim Fletchall Report:
· Discussed the FEMA project on Larison’s road. The scope was work was defined for that area, so they must proceed with the project, even though the money could be used more productively in other areas.
· Fletchall had a request from Kevin Harding on CR 173/200th rd. to have the county shape up the road then seed and mulch the area. Commissioners agreed.
· Discussed CR 227/105th rd. and the brush issue, it is not satisfactory yet.
· Discussed who should replace Russell as record keeper at the county barn.
· Fletchall asked about calling CAT to check a buzzer in the grader. We should be able to share the trip charge with Stanberry. Commissioners agreed.
8. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to adjourn at 12:25 for lunch. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
Presiding Commissioner Ted Findley opened the afternoon session at 2:05.
9. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to go into closed session pursuant to RSMo 610.022 at 2:46 to discuss roof and brush issues with David Baird. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. Findley aye, Ruckman aye, Gabbert aye.
10. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to come out of closed session at 3:15. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. Findley aye, Ruckman aye, Gabbert aye.
11. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to adjourn at 4:25. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.

Obituary -- Edna Thompson 1914-2011

2011-11-01T10:38:00.000-07:00

Edna E. Thompson, daughter of Willard and Faye Lambert Cain, was born May 20, 1914 in Grant City. She graduated from the Grant City High School and attended Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville.
She later moved to Kansas City where she met her husband, Doyle Thompson. They were married October 21, 1951 at the Community Christian Church in Kansas City. They moved back to Grant City in 1955, where they remained until their death.
Edna was a member of the Grant City United Methodist Church and the PEO Sisterhood. She was preceded in death by her husband Doyle in 1996 and by her parents. She is survived by numerous cousins and friends.
Funeral services were held at the Andrews Funeral Home, Grant City, on October 28, 2011 at 10:30. Pastor Sue Noakes officiated. Interment was in the Grant City Cemetery.

Soil Testing of Flooded Fields

2011-11-01T10:18:00.000-07:00

The Missouri River was out of its banks for several months and this has an impact on the availability of crop nutrients. First of all, when soils are saturated, they are in reduced state, so chemically, the phosphorus levels if tested immediately after draining will be miss-leading. One should test soils after soils dry and return to normal moisture levels. Readings of comparison samples of the Graves Chapple before and after indicate a higher phosphorus soil test value.

Fallow Syndrome is another issue that may be found in flooded soils. Often the syndrome shows as a classic phosphorus deficiency symptom when the corn crop planted. It would be advisable to add phosphorus fertilizer even on high testing soils to help crop growth. One reason for this symptom is the loss of vescular arbuscular mycorrhizae (VAM), a fungi that forms an addition to the crop root system, that takes up nutrients for use by crop plants. An example of the fungi is the yellow fine roots of a corn plant that quickly fade after being exposed to sunlight. The yellow color is colonized by the mycorrhizae.

Also, there have been several questions regarding the white material that was deposited on some fields. I ran a couple of tests, one at a standard depth of six inches and another of the surface one-inch depth.

The white surface contains calcium which would be typical of where the water came from. Soils to west of Missouri are generally alkaline and soils in Missouri and eastward are acidic. Also, there is sodium, which was measured by electrical conductivity. The data would indicate that mixing this into the soil to dilute this layer would be ideal.

For more information, contact Wayne Flanary at 660-425-6434 or Heather Benedict at 660-425-6434, Regional Agronomists, University of Missouri Extension.

Emery's Marks One Year

2011-11-01T09:48:00.000-07:00

Adam Emery found his calling early in life. At age fourteen he got his first job, working in a tire shop, and there the spark was lit. Today Mr. Emery owns his own service station and offers customers much more than just fuel. “I also do basic mechanic work, brakes, oil changes, tire repair and rotation,” Emery says of his shop, Emery Convenience & Service located in Parnell, Missouri.
In addition to all the services Emery offers, his station also carries new tires along with convenience and grocery items. Along with fulfilling his own dream of being his own boss Emery feels his business is an important way for him to help his rural community.
“This way people do not have to drive twenty miles to the next town to get a gallon of milk or a loaf of bread,” Emery says.
In the town of Parnell, which has a population of approximately 200 people, Emery’s Convenience & Service and K&T Bar and Grill are the only two stores.
Emery has advice for anyone passionate about owning their own business, “Go for it,” he says, “it is possible to make businesses work in small towns.”
Through contacts at USDA, Emery learned about Northwest Missouri Enterprise Facilitation (NWMEF). He credits NWMEF and facilitator Annette Weeks with helping him in planning out the financial aspects of his business and helping his business succeed.
Emery Convenience & Service, 204 S. Main Street, Parnell, Missouri is celebrating a one year anniversary hosted by NWMEF Saturday, November 5th with an awards presentation at 12:00 p.m. and barbecue 12:00 p.m.- 2:00 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
If you are interested in starting or retaining your own business, Northwest Missouri Enterprise Facilitation (NWMEF) is here to help. NWMEF is an economic development project trained by the Sirolli Institute which serves six counties including Andrew, Atchison, Gentry, Holt, Nodaway and Worth. Services are offered free and are strictly confidential. NWMEF is a not-for-profit organization. For more information, contact Annette Weeks, facilitator, at (816) 262-5158 or facilitator@nwmef.com. The Resource Board is comprised of more than 70 volunteer board members from each county as well as regional representation.

A Moment with Mike -- Back in Missouri

2011-11-01T09:39:00.000-07:00

After a couple of weeks traveling out of state for both business and pleasure, it is nice to be back in Missouri. The wooded hills of the Northeast are beautiful this time of year. The leaves come alive in an array of bright colors and the picturesque view of the small fishing villages on the coast of Maine bring images of a time past. We saw beautiful scenery and different livelihoods as we visited another part of our diverse country but I am always glad to be home where Northwest Missouri offers a beauty of its own. Some of the brightest tree colors that I have seen are a couple of blocks from my home and the rolling hills with recently harvested crops have a serenity of their own. Most of you have heard me say that there is nowhere in the world that I would rather live than right here in Northwest Missouri and even though traveling is exciting there are no more comforting words than “Welcome to Kansas City” when your airplane touches down and you are almost home.
The “Special Session” that was called by the Governor to pass some economic development initiatives is officially over and even though the legislative body did not come to agreement on some of the proposed topics, the session was not a complete loss. Two bills were passed and signed by the Governor. One is a powerful economic development tool that will help Missouri attract high-tech and life sciences businesses to our state. The Missouri Science and Innovation Reinvestment Act (MOSIRA) will create a funding source to fuel new growth in the fields of science and technology. MOSIRA was meant to supplement the primary jobs package but it does offer a significant economic development tool on its own.
The other bill passed during the session is what has commonly been referred to as the “Facebook Fix.” The fix will protect the ability of teachers to have appropriate online communications with students. This fixes the unintended consequences that resulted from a previous bill that was meant to prohibit improper communications but put all communications into question.
The lack of agreements did, however, stop some initiatives, leaving them unaddressed until our next regular session. The House had passed bills to move Missouri’s presidential primary, create a period of tax amnesty for Missourians who have fallen behind on their taxes, provide an avenue for disaster relief funding to areas of the state devastated by severe weather and flooding and return control of the St. Louis Police Department to the City of St. Louis. These are issues that impact our state and need serious consideration.
There will be continued speculation on the success and necessity of this “Special Session.” I was sometimes frustrated and disappointed, however, the process is difficult and disagreement often times means that further scrutiny and negotiation is needed to come up with the best solution. Maybe it is better to pass less legislation than to pass legislation that is not the “best” thing for our state.
If you have questions, you may reach me at my Capitol number 573-751-9465, at the local district number, 660-582-4014, by email at mike.thomson@house.mo.gov or by mail at Room 401B State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.

Spell of Gold

2011-11-01T09:29:00.000-07:00

What magic has now touched
The branches of the trees
And changed green foliage
To golden treasuries?

It’s autumn’s alchemy,
In gardens bonfires blaze;
And see, the leaping flames
Turn golden in the haze!

Perhaps you, too, may find
Gold magic of your own
You planted pumpkin seeds?
See how they’ve grown and grown.

At Halloween, they’ll glow
As lanterns by and by,
Or else be baked golden,
At Thanksgiving for a pie!

--Submitted by Vivian Coleman

Blockton Birthdays & Anniversaries

2011-11-01T09:08:00.000-07:00

November Birthdays
1 Marylyn Van Patten
2 Paul Beemer
2 David Nally
2 Dorothy Sleep
2 Robert Clark
3 Judy Wilt
4 Eldon Stroburg
5 Sue Hull
5 John Van Patten, Jr.
6 Helen Lawrence
6 Mary Bentley Sheeks
9 Colton Johnson
10 Brent Melvin
10 Lora Wall
11 LuAnn Kettle
12 Doris Risser
12 L.D. Wood
13 Dennis Jackson
14 Jeff Quick
15 Jeanne Cavin
15 Julie Wall
15 Karissa Wiederholt
15 LaVeta Wyllie
16 Barbara McCully
16 Larry Winemiller
16 Donna Walters
17 Amber Farrens
17 Jared Gray
18 Danyelle Jackson
18 Judy King
18 Jim Meek
18 Tammy Schoenmann
18 Rebecca Wall
19 Delbert Molt
19 Brandon Owens
20 Marvel Melvin
20 Lisa Dillon Botzler
21 Corina Lawrence
21 Donald Brown
21 Dorothy Newkirk
21 Jaxson Hull
22 Ethan Coleman
24 Willie Skinner
25 Derek Naill
25 Bub O’Connor
25 Dianne Koehler
25 Joyce Ridge
26 Leena O’Connor Hightshoe
26 Roger Peters
27 Damien Henry
28 Kathleen Drake
28 Gary Loutzenhiser
29 John Cavin
29 Dan Freeman
29 Andrea Owens
29 Kenneth Goff
30 Glen Hull
30 Michelle Saville Riley
30 Ardna Walsh

November Anniversaries
6 Richard & Betty Lamborn
7 Paul & Sue Beemer
11 Chuck & Donna Walters
20 Carey & Joy Stroburg
23 Jerry & Corina Lawrence
24 David & Dee Qualls
24 Jim & Shirley Winemiller
30 Dan & Cindy Nally

Jack Remembers -- Saturday Nights

2011-11-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

It saddens me to think our young rural kids will never experience the thrill of going to town on Saturday night. If you have memories like Dennis Dierking, let me know.

Dear Jack, It was fun to read in the Concordian about the Saturday night ritual from Jack Remembers. Let me tell you what it was like in the late 50’s and early 60’s in good ole Sweet Springs.

On Friday night if you had completed all your chores for the week, your homework was complete, and you hadn’t back-talked your Mother, then you went out to Dad’s workshop and asked for your allowance. It was 50 cents. Once it was in your hands you would call your cousin Phil and arrange to meet at Whitsitt’s Drug Store in 15 minutes. Once we got there we would buy a cherry coke for a dime and then go across the street to the Uptown Theater. Admission was 25 cents for 2 movies and a cartoon. We’d then buy a 10 cent bag of popcorn and for the next 3 ½ hours be totally amused. If you’ve followed my math so far you will know that we each had a nickel left so when the last movie was over we would go across the street to the Sweet Shop, a classic American 60’s malt shop and blow our last nickel on the pinball machine that was in the front window.

Saturday was a different story. Having blown my allowance on Friday night, Saturday consisted of this. My Dad was a mechanic for Turner Chevrolet in downtown Sweet Springs. He worked til noon on Saturdays. We lived about 6 blocks from downtown but Dad would always walk home on Saturday afternoon after he had parked the car in a good spot to visit with people on Saturday night. Saturday nights were incredible. People bringing eggs and produce to Wiley’s grocery. Jack, at one time you could buy a Ford, Mercury, Chevrolet, GM, Chrysler, Dodge product in my home town and now there’s not even a used car dealership that I know of. It’s really sad. Dennis Dierking, Raytown, MO Keep writing, Jack

Jack can be reached at PO Box 40, Oak Grove, MO 64075 or jackremembers @aol.com, www.jackremembers.com

Brad Lager's Capitol Report -- Rebuilding Missouri's Economy

2011-11-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

Rebuilding Missouri’s Economy
As the 2011 special session comes to a close, Missouri’s economic outlook is not much different than when the special session began nearly two months ago. While the major push was an attempt to increase government spending under the umbrella of “economic development,” the reality is that there are a number of public policy changes that should be considered instead of creating more special perks for special interest. With the next regular session just two months away, we cannot lose our focus on protecting the interests of taxpayers, reducing government spending, and growing our economy through private sector job creation.
In recent years, every level of government has worked to spur economic growth. Unfortunately, the majority of these attempts have been politicians throwing the taxpayer’s money at specific industries, particular companies and campaign contributors. These government handouts have compounded the already strained budgets thereby forcing dramatic reductions to essential public programs such as education, transportation and public safety.
Although these financial giveaways may create short-term economic activity, they do very little to create long term sustainable economic growth. If we are serious about creating public policy that supports economic growth, then we must pursue comprehensive measures aimed at long-term prosperity. For example, by improving Missouri’s tax structure and reducing the financial burdens on businesses in our state, we will benefit every company operating within our borders. By having a fair legal system that is not hostile towards businesses and a reasonable regulatory environment that is not forcing jobs out of our country, we can create a business climate that encourages innovators and entrepreneurs to invest in their businesses, hire new workers, and grow their companies.
While government incentives are easy to tout as economic development efforts, they too often become special treatment for a handful of companies who lobby effectively. The winners and losers in the free market place should be chosen by consumer’s purchasing practices and not by politicians or government bureaucrats. I believe that the legislature has a greater responsibility to Missouri’s citizens to fight for every Missouri business that supports our communities and keeps our economy growing. While there is no silver bullet for the problems we currently face, I am committed to working hard and continuing to fight for comprehensive solutions that provide widespread support and long-term growth opportunities.

As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns. The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is brad.lager@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 422, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.

To the Older Christian

2011-11-01T08:31:00.000-07:00

You may be growing older
And your step a mite bit slow
You may not move as fast as once,
But oh, God loves you so.
You may think that you're not needed
That your work down here is through!
But my beloved oldster,
God has a plan for you.
Your white hair shows the wisdom
You've gathered through the years;
Your patience stands for victories,
Proves you've conquered many fears.
Your sweetness shows that Christ prevails
His love for you inbides;
As these virtues flow out from you,
You're blessing other lives.
Oh, don't ever be discouraged,
If others must wait for you;
You've done your share of services;
Just let His light shine through.
So rejoice and live with Jesus
And to others his kindness show;
You're still wanted and still needed;
You're God's messenger, you know.

--Submitted by Vivian Coleman

Dust if you Must

2011-10-31T17:20:00.000-07:00

Remember -- A layer of dust protects the wood beneath it. A house becomes a home when you can write, "I love you" on the furniture.

I used to spend at least 8 hours every weekend making sure that things were just perfect in case someone came over to visit. One day I realized that no one came over; they were all having fun.

Now, when people do visit, I don't have to explain the "condition" of my home. They are more interested in hearing about the things I have been doing while I was away living and having fun. If you haven't figured it out yet, please consider my advice. Life is short, so please try to enjoy the blessings God has given us.

Dust if you must, but wouldn't it be better to paint a picture or write a letter? Perhaps bake cookies or a cake, and plant a good seed for God. Ponder the difference between want and need.

Dust if you must, but there's not much time, with river to swim or mountains to climb, music to hear, and books to read, friends to cherish, and a life for God to lead.

Dust if you must, but the world's out there with the sun in your eyes, the wind in your hair, a flutter of snow, or a shower of rain. This day will not come around again.

Dust if you must, but bear in mind, old age will come and it's not kind. When you go, and go you must, will the Lord have you spending time in heaven chasing dust?

It is not what you gather, but what you scatter that tells what kind of life you have lived.
--Submitted by Glenda Wyer

Icle Young Visitors

2011-10-31T16:06:00.000-07:00

Visitors of Icle Young during the past week have been Cathy Cottrell and sons John and Nathan of Fort Madison, IA; Paul and Sally Beezley of Washington, IA; Huey and Kay Rowen, Glenda Wyer, and Geneveive Walker, all of Sheridan.

Three Killed in Hopkins Wreck

2011-10-31T14:46:00.000-07:00

Three people were killed and four others injured in a one car accident 1/2 mile east of Hopkins on 246. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2003 Chevy pickup driven by Scott Woods of Hopkins was eastbound and ran off the south side of the road. Woods overcorrected and then vehicle then went off the north side of the road. As the vehicle came back onto the road, it overturned, coming to rest on the south side of the roadway on its wheels and caught fire. All occupants of the vehicle were ejected. Chrystal Olerich, 18, of Lake View, IA was pronounced dead at the scene at 3:34 in the morning. Benjamin McIntyre, 22, of Hopkins, was also pronounced dead at the scene. Josh Bix, 21, of Hopkins, was pronounced dead at St. Francis Hospital in Maryville.

Sustaining serious injuries were Jordan Breeding, 19, of Hopkins and Samantha Weed, 18, of Bedford. Breeding was life-flighted to Heartland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph. Weed was taken to St. Francis Hospital and then life flighted to Omaha. Kaley Folkerts, 19, of Bedford and Scott Woods, 22, of Hopkins received minor injuries. Folkerts was transported to the St. Francis Hospital while Woods refused treatment at the scene.

Eight FFA Members Travel to Nationals

2011-10-26T16:38:00.000-07:00

Worth County FFA members recently attended the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, IN from October 18-21. Members attending included Austin Carlson, Chase Thummel, Jared Simmons, Shannon White, Caleb Mace, Grant Parman, Jennifer Runde, and Sydney Thummel. Local FFA members traveled with FFA members from other schools, including Stanberry, Lathrop, North Harrison, and Princeton. During this event, students were able to partake in educational tours, as well as leadership development and FFA business meetings. Tour sites included the Cameron Caves, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and Hunter’s Honey Farm. In addition to convention sessions and the FFA career show, students attended activities sponsored by the National FFA Organization, including a hypnotist show and Blake Shelton concert. This activity provided an excellent opportunity for local FFA members to develop leadership skills and gain insight into the future of the agriculture industry and agriculture education in general. The purpose of the National FFA Organization is to develop premier leadership, personal growth, and career success for students through agriculture education.

Worth County Sheriff's Report for October 26th, 2011

2011-10-25T00:42:00.000-07:00

Report of possible theft of walnut log.
Report of lost billfold.
Followup on vandalism in Denver at Methodist Church and Post Office.
Bond posted.
Report of cattle out on Missouri 46 west of Hatfield; Harrison County advised.
Cattle out on Route M west of Denver; officer dispatched.
Cattle out north of Denver; officer dispatched.
Cattle out on Route B north of Oxford; officer dispatched.
Funeral assist.
Report of animal neglect; officer checks location.
Report of runaway child.
Report of stolen big screen TV.
Highway Patrol in with an arrest warrant to process.
Officer checks suspicious vehicle report south of Sheridan.
Individual in the office with questions about obtaining an ex-parte order.

To report a problem, contact the secure phone line at (660) 564-2222. For emergencies, dial 911.

Farm Service Agency Increases Guaranteed Loan Limit

2011-10-19T18:52:00.000-07:00

Harrison County USDA Farm Loan Manager Charles Meissen announced that the loan limit for the Guaranteed Loan Program will increase to $1,214,000. The limit is adjusted annually based on the "Prices Paid to Farmers Index," compiled by the National Agricultural Statistics Service.

"Raising the guaranteed loan limit will allow FSA to better meet the financial needs of producers across the state," said Meissen.

Another change will affect the one-time loan guarantee fee charged on all FSA loans obligated after October 1st, 2011. The one-time loan guarantee fee will increase from 1.0% to 1.5% of the guaranteed portion of the loan.

FSA guaranteed loans allow lenders to provide agricultural credit to farmers who do not meet the lender's normal underwriting criteria. Farmers and ranchers apply for a guaranteed loan through a commercial lender and the lender arranges for the guarantee. FSA can guarantee up to 95% of the loss of principal and interest on a loan. Guaranteed loans can be used for both farm ownership and operating purposes.

Producers who are unable to obtain financing through a commercial lender, including a guaranteed loan, could be eligible for a FSA Direct Loan. These loans are made by FSA with government funds and the limit is $300,000 (except for Emergency Loans which have a limit of $500,000). The maximum combined guaranteed and direct farm loan indebtedness is now $1,514,000.

For more information on FSA's farm loan programs, please contact Charles Meissen at the Harrison County USDA Service Center at (660) 425-7635.

Commission Passes Disability Resolution

2011-10-17T11:32:00.000-07:00

The Worth County Commission passed a disability resolution at their regular meeting Monday, adopting a policy of non-discrimination on the basis of disability. The commission says that the resolution is necessary in order to comply with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 in order to get future Community Development Block Grants that they elect to pursue. Passage is also needed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act as well.

It will be the policy of the county that all programs and activities be accessible and usable by qualified persons with disabilities in accordance with Section 504 and the ADA. The county will conduct a self-evaluation with the assistance of a citizen review committee and make necessary modifications in order to comply. Where building modifications are required, the county will take these requirements into account.

The resolution creates a grievance procedure for complaints of discrimination under the ADA; all persons who believe that they have been discriminated against will have the right to file a written complaint. The claimant shall deliver to the clerk's office a written complaint stating the name and identification, the department name and location, a description of the incidents involved, the nature of the claimant's disability, and other necessary information. The County Clerk will investigate the factual basis for the grievance and hold a meeting with the claimant; within 10 days, the Clerk will notify the claimant of their decision and what corrective action will be taken by the county.

If the claimant is not satisfied by the decision, they may appeal to the County Commission within 45 days of the date of the meeting with the clerk whether notification from the clerk is received or not. The hearing will be conducted in an informal manner and commissioners will make every effort to avoid the appearance of conducting a trial in a court of law. The appeal will be in writing and shall state why the claimant believes the County Clerk's decision was incorrect.

No later than 10 working days after the written appeal, the clerk shall fix a time and place for convening a hearing before the commission. Following the hearing, the commission will rule within 48 hours and provide their written findings and recommendations to the claimant. Failure to attend by the claimant or to notify the commission of their inability to attend will constitute just cause of dismissal of the complaint. The purpose of this process is not to award monetary damages, but to correct a situation that is occurring within a county building.

The resolution also adopts a statement of nondiscrimination regarding hiring, promotion, disciplining, or removal of any county employee on the basis of handicapped status.

A complete copy of this resolution can be obtained at the Worth County Clerk's office.

In other action, the commissioners stated the county policy towards gated roads. Such roads are dealt with on a case by case basis, but will not be maintained if they are gated off.

With the colder weather, the county is getting ready for winter. There are no more heaters that are running on 110 power; they are all running on 220. The county, however, is wired for 110 current.

The commission recently was left with the problem of how to house Community Services and the Economic Development office. The Economic Developer's office is moving out of the basement of City Hall because the city says it needs the area for storage. Community Services is moving due to massive budget cuts at the federal level. Community Services will move to the Grant City Methodist Church while the Economic Developer is moving in with the Extension Office in the basement of the Courthouse. Outgoing director Charity Austin said that she will begin moving stuff this week. The Worth County Progress Organization is still taking applications for the Economic Developer's position and will try and fill the position at their November meeting.

Treasurer Linda Brown reported that the county had made a $25,000 transfer from the CART fund to cover the Special Rock Fund. The Patron gravel is mostly hauled for this year. The county might still haul some bypass rock for Route C. The 100% match for county roads that bypass the Route C construction between Denver and Allendale is still in effect. Route PP is now open while construction for Route T north of Allendale has been postponed until next year.

Lenny Roush reported that the county has around 160 pounds of ice melt and two bags of liquid melt left, which he said would last through the first severe snowstorm. He will look at prices for more.

Commissioners spent much of the day looking at the Rinehart road as well as other roads that are being targeted by the new Brush Ordinance.

It was reported that Grand River had run a fiber optic cable over a county tube, which Commissioner Dennis Gabbert said the county had not been notified of. The county is in the process of drafting a letter to GRM.

The commission renewed their dues with the Northwest Missouri Regional Council of Governments.

It was reported that the rural population for the county was down to 944 people based on 2010 census data.

Road & Bridge Foreman Jim Fletchall reported rock had been placed on #116. In going back over the old maps, County Clerk Roberta Owens reported that the numbering had been done sometime between 1903 and 1925. A map of the county did not show the roads numbered; however, a 1925 map showed the roads numbered much as they are today.

Regarding brush enforcement, Fletchall said that there were a lot of roads that had a dent made in them, but that there was still too much overhanging brush on a lot of them. He said he feared that the county would have to repeat the brush process all over again if the landowners did not cut it enough. He said that while present efforts had helped, it was not a cure and it was not what was called for under the brush policy. The county is getting more and more specific in its brush letters explaining what needed to be cut. Commissioners were touring roads Monday to see how well landowners with brush letters had followed up and removed brush from the roads.

Fuel storage came up as an issue again. Fletchall said that quotes he got regarding state-mandated containment ranged from $1,000 to $2,500. Shipping costs from a supplier out of the area would more than offset any price savings. The county will try and negotiate a better price to meet their containment needs.

Fletchall also said that a tube by Gordie Sorenson's was still a recurring problem. He said that he would be looking for buckets at auctions that would fit the present county vehicles. A 14 foot bridge near Oxford near Dennis Gabbert's was not holding up very well and it needs beams and more.

The commission said that they were still onboard with the city in pursuing a recycling program for the county. Previously, the county was unable to implement one because they could not find anyone willing to haul; however, there is a lot more money in the industry now and there are at least two businesses in Maryville that are willing to haul for recycling. King City has such a program and they have open container hours; people leave their trash and someone is there to sort it and put it in the bins. When the bins are full the hauler comes and leaves another one in its place. There would be no cost to the county if they were to get the grant; if they don't, the county said they would need to look over their situation first before proceeding.

Location would be a problem as Fletchall said that the county was still dealing with space issues at the county barn and the city's is not fenced off.

Austin reported that she was also pursing a program which would raise Deputy Tony Steele's salary to at least $28,000. It would not cost the county any more money; the goal of the program is to raise the salary level of the deputy to over $28,000 without any extra local costs. It would be renewable annually; Austin said she was not sure if there was a sunset clause like there is with the COPS grant.

Eli Rushes for 207 vs. Longhorns; Tigers Roll 56-6.

2011-10-17T10:53:00.000-07:00

Worth County rolled 56-6 over South Nodaway as Eli Mullock ran for over 200 yards in just nine carries and the Tigers did nothing to hurt their district standings. The 1st string offense has begun a streak started after the first series against South Holt. After fumbling the ball away on their opening possession of that game, the Tigers have scored on every single possession when the first string has been in there. The line play continued to be strong after a slow start as Wyatt Rush continued to block well and center Logan Ridge played his best game of the year so far.

Before the game, the officials donated a portion of their paycheck to the Grant City Lions Club. Bill Calhoon of the Lions Club was present to accept the check on behalf of the club in a ceremony before the game.

South Nodaway could not get untracked on their first series as Lane Craven and Dalton Welch were there to drop Tom Fletchall for a loss of two. Jordan Harding and Dallas Greenland stopped Jake Amos for no gain on their next play and then an incomplete pass forced them to punt. The short kick gave Worth County a short field to work with at the Longhorn 30 and they took advantage. The game was a test of Worth County's speed against South Nodaway's size as the Longhorns are the biggest team that the Tigers have to face with 6'9" Zach Hilsabeck back to anchor the South Nodaway line. But the Longhorns had nobody who could match up with Eli Mullock's speed, which meant that he was usually gone if he got into the secondary.

Eli took a 28-yard hook and ladder play down to the 2. Bryce Ross rolled out and found nobody open and was sacked, and Eli only got one on the next play. But then the Tigers warmed up and Wyatt Rush sprung Eli for five yards for a touchdown to make it 6-0 with 9:11 left.

South Nodaway got a good return to their own 31, but then Lane Craven, Dallas Greenland, and Dalton Welch dropped Jake Amos for a loss of six back to the 25. A quarterback keeper only got two back and then a botched screen pass was fumbled and South Nodaway was forced to punt. Eli Mullock returned the ensuing punt for the score as he outran the first two defenders and bounced to the outside and ran past everyone else to make it 12-0 with 7:04 left in the first quarter.

South Nodaway finally got untracked on their next drive as they showed that they were one of the best teams at carrying out fakes that the Tigers have seen this year. Worth County bit several times on the fake handoffs and didn't seem to know who had the ball sometimes, which resulted in some good gains. But they would always stiffen up and stop the Longhorns when it mattered. Tom Fletchall did all he could to help his team, bouncing outside to convert fourth and two at the Tiger 35 and then converting third and 6 at the Tiger 33 with a 14-yard scramble to the 19. The Longhorns got all the way down to the 12 aided by an offsides penalty, but then Kevin Stoll forced a quarterback hurry as Fletchall threw the ball away on third down and then Wyatt Rush dropped Fletchall for a loss on fourth down as the Tigers took over on downs.

The long field only made things more interesting for the Tigers as Eli Mullock donned his Batman cap and the action looked more like a playground game instead of a football game on the next play. Eli took a jet sweep down the right side and got a crackback block from Jordan Harding. He met two defenders at the line of scrimmage and juked them. Then, he got a block from Logan Ridge, who had hustled clear over to the sideline to get his man and cut back towards the middle of the field to score. Eli got a block from Logan Ridge and cut back to make it 20-0.

South Nodaway gambled and it backfired on them, resulting in Worth County's next score. Lane Craven dropped Fletchall for a loss of four, but South Nodaway nearly rescued the situation as a Fletchall to Cody Burden flat pass set up fourth and one at the 27. But South Nodaway elected to go for it and Cody Burden was stopped inches short and the Tigers had a short field to work with. A hard count by Bryce Ross drew South Nodaway offsides, and then Eli picked up two to the 20. Dallas shot up the middle for 13 down to the seven as Wyatt Rush's block sprung him free. Eli then shot up the middle to make it 26-0 with 10:42 left in the first half.

The snapping woes that plagued West Nodaway last week hurt the Longhorns this week; with South Nodaway on their own 27, Fletchall was nowhere to be found and the center snapped the ball, which rolled clear to the 11. Kevin Stoll outhustled everyone to the ball and recovered it for the Tigers, who had another short field to work with. Three plays later, Eli Mullock was in behind a Dallas Greenland block. Worth County used some trickery for the extra points as they faked an extra point try and then scooped the ball high in the air to Eli, who ran in the extra points to make it 34-0.

South Nodaway returned it to the 37, but then got nowhere on the next series and gave the ball up on downs. Tyler Schmitz and Dallas Greenland led a host of Tigers to drop Amos. Burden picked up four more, but then Dallas Greenland blitzed and dropped Amos for a loss of two to set up fourth and seven. South Nodaway gave up the ball on downs thanks to a dropped screen pass and then Worth County only needed one play to get in. The Tigers carried out a perfect play action fake and everyone bit on the fake to Eli, leaving Aaron Patton wide open for a pass from Bryce as The General got behind the defense and took it to the house. Jordan Harding caught a short pass and broke the plane for the extra points to make it 42-0 with 6:29 left.

The Longhorns picked up a first down on their next series as Burden picked up seven, but then a botched handoff killed that drive and then Jordan Harding blew up a jailbreak screen as the Longhorns were forced to punt. They got off a good kick to the Tiger 12, but then Eli Mullock got a block from Wyatt Rush and bounced outside for a 58-yard score with 3:25 left to make it 50-0.

South Nodaway drove down the field and scored against the JV with 1:16 left to make it 50-6, but then Worth County put back in their first string and only needed two plays to put the nail on the coffin. Eli picked up five yards on his first play and then donned his Batman cape for his 6th score of the evening as he swept down the left side of the field after getting a block from Dallas Greenland on the much taller 6'9" Hilsabeck. Cody Burden got a perfect angle to stop Eli, but then Eli reversed back to the middle of the field as Burden got turned backwards by Eli's juke and the Tigers went back up 56-6 in time for the mercy rule.

Worth County Sheriff's Report for October 19th, 2011

2011-10-17T10:43:00.000-07:00

10-10 -- Two citizens in to get fingerprints for concealed carry permits.
10-11 -- Received report of person driving off and not paying for gas at a local business.
10-11 --Worth County Sheriff's Department (WCSD) helps with traffic for fire department giving rides to kids.
10-12 -- Gentry County 911 calls about accident.
10-12 -- Person in to report hitting deer on Route Y.
10-12 -- Person in to apply for concealed carry permit.
10-13 -- WCSD investigates report of car in ditch north of Allendale.
10-13 -- WCSD serves papers on local resident.
10-13 -- Person in to report car may have been keyed.
10-14 -- WCSD investigates a possible domestic issue at local apartments.
10-14 -- WCSD investigates a possible car break-in.
10-14 -- WCSD helps with lift assist on ambulance call.
10-14 -- Denver resident reports theft of chain saw.
10-15 -- Report of cows out on Jaguar Avenue.
10-15 -- Report of dogs attacking some goats; 1 goat killed and dogs destroyed by owner of goats.
10-15 -- Report of vandalism at Denver Methodist Church.

To report a problem, contact the secure phone line at (660) 564-2222. For emergencies, dial 911.

Grant City Approves Building Permit for Danny Campbell

2011-10-05T16:44:00.000-07:00

October 19th, 2011
A Special Meeting was held October 4th, 2011 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.

Present: Mayor Debbie Roach, Aldermen: Dennis Downing, Bruce Downing, Catherine Runde, and Cathy James. Clerk: Ayvonne Morin, Greg Miller, PWD: Carl Staton, Danny & Dena Campbell.

Mayor called meeting to order.

Building Permit Process/Permit: Mayor, Board and clerk had received several complaints concerning the building permit that Danny Campbell had submitted. The Mayor suggested waiting till the 19th meeting, but considering the permit is in compliance, and not violating any laws, and Mr. Campbell would like to get started on his project before inclement weather, the Board approved the permit.
Permit was approved for a 30 x 48 building, one car garage with living quarters.

Cathy James made motion to adjourn meeting and go into closed session pursuant to 610-021 (3) employees, Dennis Downing, seconded, motion carried, meeting adjourned. 7:00 p.m.

Closed Session: Catherine Runde made motion to adjourn closed session and meeting, Bruce Downing, seconded, motion carried, meeting adjourned. 7: 30 p.m.

Community Services, Economic Developer Seeking Office Space at Courthouse

2011-10-02T08:36:00.000-07:00

(Minutes from the County Commission Meeting of September 26th)
There was a third meeting held about the CAFO issue. Chevy Davidson presented some facts and figures to the commission. Several people were in attendance to voice their opinions.
1. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion approve the agenda and minutes. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
2. Treasurer Linda Brown presented the weekly balance sheet, bills, and payroll.
3. Commissioner Rob Ruckman made a motion to approve the bills. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
4. Commissioner Rob Ruckman reported the gas prices from MFA as gas $3.399 and diesel $3.759
5. Charity Austin, Economic Developer reported on EEZ progress. The Enhanced Enterprise Zone documents have been mailed off. It should be completed in about 3 weeks. She also told the commissioners that they City will no longer house the Economic Developer so they will need to provide an office space.
6. Bridget Gibson voiced concerns about old 169. She wants to know how to make it compliant for the tax rock. The commissioners told her that it would need to be narrowed, ditched, and crowned, and then base rock added to make it compliant.
7. Road and Bridge Foreman Jim Fletchall Report:
· Russell found 2 buckets to look at for the loader. Fletchall will find out more information.
· While working on CR 194 county crew found where Grand River Mutual Phone co had sliced through a tube. Fletchall will call Windstream.
· Fletchall explained a mistake that was made on CR 60. It had been designated as a bi-pass road earlier this spring so Roger Robertson the County rock hauler assumed it was all supposed to be covered with the tax rock, so he started at the wrong end and went all the way through.
· Robertson called to ask the commissioners if he was supposed to put tax rock on CR 164 since it was in the city limits of Denver. Commissioner Ruckman told him to put rock on it as it connected with the county road.
8. As set from Tax Hearing held on September 19th the levies are as follows:
Library tax levy at 0.0999.
The General Revenue Tax Levy at $.4996
General Revenue Temporary Tax Levy at $.35,
Road and Bridge Fund Tax Levy at $.4996
Special Road and Bridge Fund Tax Levy at $.3297
Senior Citizens Fund Tax Levy at $.05
9. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to adjourn for lunch at 12:00 pm. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.

Presiding Commissioner Ted Findley brought the afternoon session to order at 1:45 pm.
10. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to go into closed session with David Baird, County Attorney to discuss litigation at 1:48. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. Findley aye, Ruckman aye, Gabbert aye.
11. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to come out of closed session at 3:15 pm commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. Roll vote: Findley aye, Ruckman aye, Gabbert aye.
12. There was more discussion on available space in the courthouse, due to the budget cuts from Community Services, the Community Services office will no longer be housed in the Apblanalp building. Mary Jo Fletchall is seeking free space for her office. Ted Findley is on the Community Services board and mentioned moving the office somewhere in the courthouse also.
13. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to adjourn at 4:56 pm. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.

Blockton Birthdays & Anniversaries

2011-10-02T08:33:00.000-07:00

October Birthdays
1 Dan Nally
2 Mary Cavin
2 Don Shearer
2 Carol Streebin
3 Nolan Drake
3 Baker Peters
3 Jerry King
3 Alvira Stock Morris
3 Jeremy Nally
5 Debbie Kemery Lynch
5 Crystal Drake
6 Barb Miller
6 Ashley Norris
7 Hunter Castillo
7 Courtney King
7 Patsy Stroburg
8 Tammy Faubion
9 Virginia Powell
9 Ryker Henson
9 Cody Tyler Dyer
11 Sarah Carlson
11 Kristie King Searl
12 Charlene Ballantyne
12 Judy Henry
14 Becky Hanson Devine
14 Patricia Brown Clark
14 Chuck Walters
15 Mike Kemery
17 David Henry
17 John Weaver
17 Jeff Guthrie
17 Dakota Johnson
18 Jackie Norris
18 Logan Ridge
19 Connie Drake
19 Lynn King
19 Amber Mahers
20 James Ridge
22 Leslie Miller Drake
22 Ann Poor
23 Larry Headley
23 Susan Walters
23 Weston Drake
24 Anne Meek
25 Brody King
25 Ronnel Schlapia
25 Jim Pearce
25 Bea Scroggie
25 Jerry Kemery
27 Quentin King
27 Callyn Bonde
28 Bill Hunt
29 Greg Loutzenhiser
29 Pauline Dudley
30 Mabel Smith
30 Savannah Farrens

October Anniversaries
2 Bobby & Carolyn Hull
4 Joe & JoEllen Guinn
8 Keith & Velma Walters
10 Richard & Elaine Schornhorst
12 Edwin & Lorraine King
16 Robert & Linda Henson
17 Joe & Doris Butlers
17 Kent & Karla Wiederholt
29 Bill & Irene Freeman
29 Dick & Cindy Snethen
31 Clint & Nicci Johnson

Football Homecoming Plans Underway

2011-09-26T17:35:00.000-07:00

October 7, 2011, marks the day for Worth County Tiger Football Homecoming celebration. “Classic Football Movies” has been chosen by the Student Council as this year’s theme. Scheduled activities on October 7 include a pep rally at 8:15, a parade which will originate in front of the school at 2:15 and arrive on the square for coronation activities at approximately 2:30. In an attempt to expand the day’s activities, the Student Council is extending an invitation to Worth County organizations or groups encouraging them to sponsor an entry in the parade. The student council asks that NO CANDY be DISPENSED DURING THE PARADE. Information regarding entry requirements, parade order and entry judging may be obtained by contacting Dale Healy, 564-2218. A short pep assembly as well as announcements regarding class and float competitions will precede the coronation activities.

The Student Council is sponsoring a Homecoming Window Decoration contest for Worth County businesses and organizations. Any Worth County business or organization may enter the contest by contacting Mr. Healy at school prior to 3:00, Thursday, October 6. The judging will be done between 5:00 and 10:00 Thursday evening. The winning entry will receive $25 from the student council.

The pre-game show on Friday is slated to begin at 6:35 p.m. on the Frank B. Matteson Memorial Field, with the introduction of the queen and her court escorted by their fathers at 6:35. At 6:50 will be the introduction of teams followed by the playing of the National Anthem by the Worth County Marching Tigers. Opening kickoff between the Worth County Fighting Tigers and the West Nodaway Rockets is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Halftime activities will be conducted.

A dance, sponsored by the student council, will conclude the day’s activities at 11:30. All students, grades 7-12, as well as Worth County alumni are invited to attend. Charge to the dance will be $3.00 per person; $5.00 per couple.

Questions in regard to homecoming activities may be addressed to Jessica Garrett, Student Council President.

2011 Homecoming Royalty are: Queen Candidates – Jessica Garrett, Alexis Hawk, Paige McPike; King Candidates – Jordan Harding, Eli Mullock, Bryson Scott; Junior Attendants – Haven Schottel, Bryce Ross
Sophomore Attendants – Katie Mullock, Andrew Mullock; Freshmen Attendants – Madison Cassavaugh, Gavin Hawk

A special recognition this year goes to the 1981 football team. They will have a float in the parade and be recognized at the game.

We, here at the school, encourage our patrons to take an active role in this year’s Homecoming celebration, whether it is supporting the “Tigers” at the game, sponsoring an entry in the parade, decorating business windows or simply attending the dance. All positive means of support for our school’s celebration will be appreciated.

WCCC News -- Homemade Apple Cider

2011-09-26T17:31:00.000-07:00

Shirley Pierce led Sunday School on Sunday morning and Scott Marcum from the Blockton Christian Church provided Church Services Sunday afternoon. The Residents always look forward to these Sunday activities.

Exercise started off our week on Monday September 19th. We played Bingo later in the day and had a very good crowd. Bingo is a favorite of our residents. Becky Supinger and Rachel Downey stopped by later in the afternoon; the residents always enjoy the different stories.

Tuesday morning we had a grab bag game with many Residents participating. In the afternoon we played several games of Dominoes, Howard Burns was the winner.

Homemade butter making was the Wednesday morning activity. We used heavy whipping cream and a stand mixer. We were all a little skeptical about it working but, it did and the butter turned out very well. Bingo was the afternoon activity; Jerry Dignan was the blackout winner. Thank you to Shirley Calhoun for helping with Bingo.

I would like to thank Len Green for leading Bible Study, Thursday morning. Thursday afternoon several residents went for a ride to Allendale and over to the Nation. Residents enjoyed visiting about all of the great music and good times they had at the Nation.

Friday was the first day of autumn we celebrated with homemade apple cider and homemade bread in the afternoon. Shirley Pierce and Karen Fletchall loaned their bred machines to us. This was the first time many of our Residents had seen a bread machine operate. They discussed many of the ways they made bread from scratch. Thank you to Vivian Coleman and Marilyn Shafer for helping Friday afternoon.

We will be having a pumpkin decorating contest later in October for the community. Please watch the paper for details.

Brad Lager's Capitol Report -- Missouri's Challenges & Opportunities

2011-09-26T16:35:00.000-07:00

Missouri’s Challenges and Opportunities

Missouri has a strong and proud history of overcoming its challenges and advancing its opportunities. This has led to economic growth and a better quality of life for future generations. However, we once again find ourselves at a crossroad as pivotal decisions need addressed. In order to ensure a bright future for our state, we must be willing to confront the unique and varying challenges faced by our communities.

In many areas of our state, declining population continues to create tremendous challenges as we work to fuel and grow regional economic opportunities. Because of these declines, many of our towns struggle to find the financial resources necessary to upgrade their antiquated public infrastructure while other communities are growing so fast that they cannot expand quick enough to meet the demands for services from their new residents. As a result, they find themselves struggling to maintain the “small town feel” and quality of life that draw people to their communities.

Fortunately, the qualities that make Missouri a great place to live are the same qualities necessary to overcome these challenges. When a problem arises within a community, we come together and work to improve the lives of those around us. Increasingly, we have come to view our challenges as regional issues which often produces a collaborative solution.

Job creation and economic growth continue to be the most pressing concerns throughout our state. If we are going to grow our economy, we must empower entrepreneurs, encourage innovation and invite risk takers into our communities. These new businesses will develop, emerge and fuel our economies. The world around us is changing, and we will need to change in order to be competitive in the economic opportunities of the future. We have a tremendous task in front of us to ensure future generations have the same chance to succeed and the same great quality of life we enjoy today. I believe Missouri’s greatest asset is its people, and by working together towards common goals, we can improve each of our communities and ensure a bright future for all Missouri’s citizens.

Missouri community colleges to invest $20 million to train Missourians for health care careers, Gov. Nixon announces

2011-09-26T16:19:00.000-07:00

Gov. Jay Nixon announced today that Missouri community colleges will invest $20 million through MoHealthWINS, a statewide effort to educate 4,600 more Missourians for health care jobs and careers. Under Gov. Nixon’s leadership, Missouri’s 12 community colleges and Linn State Technical College collaborated with the Missouri Department of Economic Development and the state’s Workforce Investment Boards to apply for these federal funds to retrain unemployed Missourians for jobs and careers in growing health care fields.

The colleges estimate that MoHealthWINS will provide educational opportunities for approximately 4,600 additional Missourians. The grant specifically targets unemployed adult learners who are seeking new career opportunities.

“From the moment I became Governor, we have worked closely with Missouri’s outstanding community colleges to train more Missourians for the jobs and careers of tomorrow and to get folks back to work,” Gov. Nixon said. “Missouri’s health care industry is growing quickly, and hospitals, clinics and other employers need more nurses, lab techs and other workers with the right education and skills today. By expanding educational opportunities for Missourians in these fields, we’ll open the door for employment for more folks and keep our economy growing. This is a strategic investment in the growth of our economy and the future of our state.”

Individual colleges will use these funds to develop or expand training programs in the health services and health sciences industry, which is a targeted industry under the Missouri Strategic Initiative for Economic Growth. The application focused on this industry because it offers immediate and long-term employment opportunities and relatively high-wage jobs. Training will target specific occupations within this industry, including:

n Health information technologist

n Information systems

n Certified nursing aide

n Certified medical technician

n Licensed practical nurse

n Associate nursing degree

n Pharmacy technician

n Hearing instrument technician

n Medical lab technician

n Phlebotomist

n Radiologic technician

n Maintenance technician

n Mechanical technician

These competitive funds were made available under the U.S. Department of Labor’s Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training Grant Program. When the grant process was announced, Gov. Nixon brought Missouri’s community colleges together to submit a joint, comprehensive application. In the application, the colleges looked for ways to develop collaborative and targeted programs that would capitalize on the unique resources of each college, avoid duplication, and save money. Colleges will share equipment and faculty, emphasize online and distance learning and take other steps to expand access, improve efficiency and reduce redundancy.

Throughout the application process, senior leaders within Gov. Nixon’s administration worked closely with community college and Workforce Investment Board leaders to develop and craft the grant application. In April 2011, Gov. Nixon submitted a strong letter in support of the application, noting that this investment supplemented his “Big Goal” for higher education: Increasing the percentage of Missourians who hold a postsecondary credential from 37 percent to 60 percent by 2020. Gov. Nixon also discussed the importance of this application directly with federal leaders, including Education Secretary Arne Duncan.

“This grant is a major step forward for our community colleges in our efforts to expand opportunities for adult students across this state,” said Zora Mulligan, executive director of the Missouri Community College Association. “Throughout this process, Gov. Nixon has been a steadfast partner, and his leadership was instrumental in making our application so successful. We look forward to continuing to work closely with Gov. Nixon and with the state’s Workforce Investment Boards to turn this grant into real learning opportunities for folks in every corner of Missouri.”

Gov. Nixon will visit several community colleges in the coming days to detail specific programs that will be developed or expanded as a result of this grant.

A copy of Gov. Nixon’s letter in support of the application is available here

A copy of the application summary with information about specific programs is available here

Obituary -- James Ivan Nally 1921-2011

2011-09-25T16:41:00.001-07:00

James Ivan Nally, 90, passed away Wednesday, September 14, 2011 at St. Francis Hospital, Maryville, MO.
He was born January 23, 1921 in Hopkins, MO, the son of Willa Frances (Knowles) and Moses Earl Nally. Ivan married Virginia Lee Magill on August 30, 1946 and she preceded him in death in 2001. Ivan was a graduate of Northwest Missouri State University, Maryville. He served in World War II from 1942-1946 in the Coast Guard in Alaska and was stationed in Fort Collins, CO until his discharge. After his discharge from the Coast Guard, he retired from the Scottsdale, Arizona school system as a purchasing agent.
Also preceding him in death were brothers, Norvel Nally and Knowles Nally and sister, Ethel Evans.
Survivors are son, Jim (Christine) and three granddaughters, Richardson, TX, grandaughter, Dawn, State of Nebraska, brother and sister-in-law, Raymond and Helen Nally, Delaware, OH and many nieces, nephews and special friend, Margery Lemon, Lenox, IA.
Ivan loved country music, dancing and playing cards.
He has been cremated under the direction of Bram-Danfeldt Funeral Home and a Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

National Head Lice Prevention Month

2011-09-25T14:01:00.000-07:00

The non-profit National Pediculosis Association (NPA) has been the annual sponsor of National Head Lice Prevention Month since 1985. NPA initiated Comb First! to help communities safely manage head lice by teaching parents how to screen regularly, detect infestations early, remove all the lice and nits (lice eggs) with an effective combing tool, and most importantly protect children.

A part of its mission, the NPA developed the LiceMeister® comb

in 1997, setting a new standard in nit removal combs and a non-chemical approach to manage pediculosis. NPA’s philosophy? “If you don’t get the lice and nits out of your hair, then you’ve still got them!”

Pediculosis is a communicable disease affecting children and families across the nation and around the world

and the most widely used treatments are pesticides (pediculicides). No pesticide treatment is completely safe or effective and lice resistance to them is common. Screening for head lice and nits is a healthy hygiene measure and not just something to do when you hear of another infested child.

1. Know how to identify lice and nits in advance of outbreaks.

2. Know how to check heads at home so kids can arrive to the group setting lice and nit free.

3. Know your child's school policy

on head lice. Policies vary greatly from school to school. Some parents are given advice to use a lice treatment without any warning that the treatment is a pesticide, with unfair expectations of its effectiveness and without any mention of the benefits of combing. Treatment failure, whatever the reason, leads to repeated pesticide exposures and children are especially vulnerable to the risks

Parents who check their children regularly are first to know when their child is infested.

So Comb First!

NPA's website offers free educational resources and a public service announcement formatted for sharing, including videos with step-by-step instructions for combing and screening, available in English and Spanish.

Founded in 1983, the National Pediculosis Association®, Inc. (NPA) is a non-profit volunteer organization including scientific advisors dedicated to protecting children from the misuse and abuse of readily available over-the-counter and prescription pediculicides. Proceeds from the LiceMeister® comb allow the NPA to be self-sustaining and accomplish its mission to protect children.

NPA's President Deborah Altschuler points to the organization’s long-time commitment to promoting children's health: "Combing is the safest and most cost effective approach that accomplishes what chemicals cannot. It allows regular screening and early detection which makes the combing approach practical and realistic. While chemical treatments, pediculicides, and broad spectrum antibiotics develop resistance and potentially adverse health effects, nothing compares to the kindness of a comb."

General Health Clinic encourages you to speak with your healthcare professional with questions or concerns regarding head lice. The Clinic welcomes most major insurances along with Medicare and Medicaid. Payments by cash, credit cards, and debit cards are accepted. The clinic is located at the junction of highways 148 and JJ in Hopkins, Missouri and offers Botox® and Juvaderm®. Appointments can be made by calling 660-778-3209.

Source:http://www.prweb.com/releases/head_lice_prevention/nits_without_pesticides/prweb8694275.htm

Hog Farm Controversy Rages On

2011-09-19T11:19:00.000-07:00

The debate over the proposed CAFO hog farm south of Grant City raged into its second week as supporters and opponents of the proposal debated before the County Commission meeting Monday. The crowd this week was even larger than the last time as over 40 people were present at the meeting. Brian and Kathy Sherer are proposing to put in a CAFO with 2500-7500 Cargill hogs that would be raised and shipped off to processing facilities. As of Friday, the Missouri DNR had not received a permit application for the facility; they must wait a minimum of 30 days to turn a spade as the DNR reviews their application.

In response, a large group of people have proposed that the county pass a health ordinance regulating CAFO's. David B. Parman said that the goal was not to ban all CAFO's; the goal was for the county to set standards that people should follow. Specifically, he said that it was a matter of determining what the setbacks should be and what the number of hogs should be. The problem, as Chevy Davidson saw, was that it would not be possible to pass such an ordinance without regulating all other farming operations, such as cattle operations.

Both sides came armed with studies; Cargill sent three different representatives to the meeting to address the commission. Davidson quoted a University of Missouri study in which Premium Standard had contributed $1.9 million just to local schools. Worth County only got $2,500 of the pie since there are only six barns on the southern edge of the county. Distribution was spread over much of north Missouri, with Mercer County, where Premium Standard is headquartered, getting almost half of the revenue increase. Davidson said that the economic impact for Premium Standard was around $1.1 billion for the area.

Davidson said that health risks were confined to direct contact and that there were no public health risks regardless of production method. He said that this was a matter of making it possible for farmers to put food on the table for future generations.

The problem for a lot of the opponents of the Sherer facility was the fear that their property values would go down because of the belief that nobody would want to live near such a place. In fact, Josh Nana said that there was a study showing that property values went down by as much as 40% if a CAFO were to move into the area. The facility would be in the new proposed Enhanced Enterprise Zone for the county; however, Commissioner Rob Ruckman said he was not sure if the Sherer farm would qualify.

Mike Sherer, who runs a facility by Bethany, said that this was a matter of bringing grandson Scott back to the area and that it was "terrible the way you were treating him." Sam Martell responded that it was not a personal vendetta that he had but the concern that property values would go down. Mike Sherer responded that he had run 1000 head of hogs all the time when he was younger and that his personal health had actually improved in the last few years since he built his facility.

The Sherer farm would be 3/4 of a mile from the main road and they would inject waste into the ground deep enough so that it would not create an odor problem; they have been in the process of getting easements so that they could do so. Josh Nana said that this was not personal for him and that the Sherers had been good neighbors to both him and his mother, who owns land next to where the facility would be built. But he said that it was a major health issue for the area; for instance, he said that in Iowa, there were 10% higher asthma rates for schoolchildren who live near to such places.

Jerry Foster of Cargill said that the study in question was not peer reviewed and characterized a lot of studies done by opponents as "circular logic." "All they do is quote each other," he said. "You can't go off one study when you do these things." For instance, he said that the study in question didn't control for different situations at the two schools studied that might have affected the data.

Mike Sherer said that odor was not a problem for him and that perfume odor was much more of a problem. "There are places I quit going to because people have too much perfume on," he said. "That's a good point," responded Sam Martell. "You have the option of leaving. People who have to live near one of these places don't have that option."

Brenda Parman said that what the Sherers were doing amounted to taking away property values from other people for their own well-being. "This is not about you," she said. Randall Baker said that if the commission were to do nothing, it would set a dangerous precedent because more and more CAFO's would come in. "We're not willing to gamble our property values in the hopes that this would work," added Martell.

Mike Sherer said that putting up his barn was what kept him in the area. He said that only one of his neighbors ever gave him trouble over the place and that he was not even from the area. "Everyone else knew that it was about farming. This is a farming community," he said.

"But these people are not farmers," said Jerry Roach, referring to Cargill, who would be stocking the facility with their hogs. "They are in it for the money." Mike Sherer said that the alternative was to try to get bigger so that he could compete with giants like Cargill, which he said he could not do.

Herb Petty said that corporate farming was illegal in the state of Missouri. Addressing Brian and Kathy Sherer, he said, "But you're on their contract and doing whatever they are telling you to. This is part of an industrialized takeover of farming." He pointed out that if problems arose with the facility that people would sue them instead of Cargill. Petty said that what they were doing affected everyone. "These people have a whole record of screwing up the environment," he said. Addressing a rejoinder that they dealt with combine odor all the time, Petty noted that combines were not a constant like CAFO's are.

Addressing the studies from the University of Missouri, Petty said that there were just as many other professors who did studies showing that CAFO's were a liability to the state.

Tim Steinkamp of Cargill said that farming hogs could still be done; it was a matter of finding a niche and responding to consumer demand. He said that it was a misconception that Cargill shipped all their food overseas and that the company kept 75% of its food in the US and exported the other 25%.

Steinkamp acknowledged that odor was an ongoing problem and that the company was doing ongoing work to address the problem. While he did not have an exact figure as to how much the company spent, he said that they were involved in several different programs which address odor problems. He said that in places where they were at, there were compliments from neighbors and that with 1/2 mile setbacks from any homes, they did not have a big problem with odors. He said that they would work with local setback requirements. The three barns in Harrison County are around 10 miles apart from each other. He said that there was a big difference between their facilities and the Premium Standard facilities which have been the target of an ongoing lawsuit by the state for the last 15 years. The Sherer facility would have 2400 to 4800 hogs as opposed to the 48000 that Premium Standard houses.

Addressing the danger of gases from such facilities killing people, Jerry Foster said that sort of thing had happened back in the 1970's before CAFO's and that it was an ongoing risk from working in such places. He said that there were studies that cat odor was more toxic that a CAFO one mile away. He said that there were places like Lancaster, PA in which huge chicken barns coexisted side by side with $300,000 homes. In fact, he said that land values went up. However Rhonda Richards said that there was a big difference from Worth County's situation since people were moving from there out of the suburbs of Washington, DC and that land was consequently in high demand. In other words, she said that they were comparing apples to oranges.

Parman said that many health ordinances like the one proposed for the county would require a fee and a cleanup bond in case the project went under. The state has an indemnity fee that they charge in case of abandonment, but Parman said that they had not used it in the last 15 years, meaning that the DNR was very lax when it came to enforcement.

The discussion got heated as Kathy Sherer said that opponents were simply trying to shut them down. "Cargill doesn't care what this community thinks; they don't fit in with us," responded Martell. "You keep using the cattle operations as a defense; that's not a defense," said Brenda Parman. "So you're discriminating against hog operations," responded Brian Sherer. David Parman said that in any health ordinance, existing operations would be grandfathered in and that Linn County and other places were able to work around cattle operations.

Another issue discussed was groundwater contamination. Ann Roach said that when she got up at 5 in the morning, her coffee tasted like hog manure and that they didn't even live that close to the Premium Standard operation. Responding to Kathy Sherer's rejoinder that their operation was different, she asked, "Where does it all end? I have to stand up before one comes on my own doorstep."

The argument continued after the commissioners returned to the meeting room as 15 different people filled the room. Kathy Sherer said that there were adequate safeguards put in place so that groundwater contamination would not be an issue. For instance, both they and the people who they have easements with have to have a manure testing plan filed with the state and that the people applying the waste, out of Mount Ayr, had liability insurance so that would not be a problem. "That's fine that you're going to do the responsible thing, but what about the next people to come in here?" asked Josh Nana.

Dan Yonker of the Missouri Pork Producers Association and a Cargill employee said that farming was different today than it was 30-50 years ago and that the market was becoming more and more specialized. He said that more and more people were wanting lean beef, meaning that these CAFO's were necessary to respond to consumer demand. Yonker said that it was a matter of creating opportunities for people to come back and manage farms and that when they went into Atchison County, it created a huge economic benefit for people that caused a lot of initial opponents to change their minds about the project. However, Nana pointed out that these farms were done on a much bigger scale than the Sherers were proposing and that the benefit would be much less since these facilities have 26000 hogs.

Although Josh Nana said that the DNR was getting 1600 complaints a month about CAFO's, Jerry Foster, who worked for the DNR before going to work for Cargill, said that most complaints that the DNR got were from a small group of people from a small area of the state, whereas these facilities were located all over the state. He said that the DNR's hands were tied to the guidelines given them by the legislature. "It's easy to complain about something, but it's a lot more difficult to substantiate these allegations," he said. Nana said that there had already been objections registered with DNR regarding the Sherer facility, which Foster said was not unusual.

Steinkamp said that there were many counties who had chosen not to go down the path of health ordinances. He said that in that case, they would still be regulated by the state. Josh Nana said that meant that it came down to a question of whether the commission wanted local control or whether they wanted to give up control of the state. "You're the ones in control, not these corporate guys," he said. He said that a better alternative would be for the county to work with the Sherers to find a way that didn't involve CAFO's.

Obituary -- Donna Bland 1945-2011

2011-08-29T21:03:00.000-07:00

Donna M. Bland, 65, passed away at her home on Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011.
A Memorial Service was held August 8th, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at Christian Chapel, 3300 S. Providence Road, Columbia, MO.
Donna was born November 2, 1945 in Maryville, MO to William Donald and Bessie Pauline (Wiley) Masters. They preceded her in death. She married Thomas Bland on May 21, 1977 in North Carolina. He preceded her in death in October 2008.
Survivors include one sister, Martha (Gene) Imbler of Moberly, MO; brother Sam Masters (Phyllis); one niece, Stacy McCrary (Michael), and one nephew, Chad Masters (Joan), all of Columbia. She is also survived by great-nephews Jack Masters, Harrison and Sam McCrary, and great-niece Anna McCrary.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Christian Chapel Academy, 3300 S. Providence Road, Columbia, MO 65203 or Happy Tails, 5900 S. Rangeline Road, Columbia, MO 65201. Online condolences may be left at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com.

Brad Lager's Capitol Report -- Ensuring A Vibrant Agricultural Industry

2011-08-29T15:07:00.000-07:00

Missouri has been blessed with approximately 29 million acres of productive farmland. This means that nearly two-thirds of our state is utilized for some type of agricultural production. As a result, our state and its citizens have benefited from this natural environment and our state’s economy has prospered from the hard work of Missouri’s farmers. From our heritage as ranchers and row crop farmers to our emerging work in plant science and biomass initiatives, Missouri’s farmers have a proud history of embracing new technology and innovation.

Research and development is more important that ever to the future of agricultural production. Missouri is fortunate to have an infrastructure in place, through many of our institutions of higher education, to fuel agricultural innovation. These programs are committed to developing the future of agriculture by equipping the leaders of tomorrow with new knowledge, new innovation, and new operational methods which greatly increase production while protecting and preserving our natural resources. These advancements have led to higher crop yields, healthier livestock, and new markets for our agricultural products.

Missouri’s agricultural leaders of today continue to instill a strong work ethic and a commitment to community in future farmers. This commitment has fertilized local organizations such as Future Farmers of America, 4-H, and other youth in agriculture programs that allow young farmers the opportunity to showcase their skills and hard work. As a result, these future farmers understand the vital role of farming in our society which inspires them to positively advance their industry.

Missouri has historically been a leader in agricultural production, and the continued success of this industry is crucial to the financial health of our state. There will be many opportunities as the next generation of Missouri farmer competes in the global marketplace. Through the cultivation of innovation and the development of future farming generations, Missouri agriculture will continue to be a strong pillar of our state’s economic foundation.

As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns. The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is brad.lager@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 422, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.

New Law Allows Military Spouses who Relocate to File for Unemployment

2011-08-29T15:05:00.000-07:00

A new law passed by the legislature and signed by the Governor went into effect yesterday, allowing the spouse of an active member of the military to be eligible for unemployment benefits if accompanying the spouse in the event of a military transfer.

“Missouri is the proud home of Fort Leonard Wood and Whiteman Air Force base. Each year, our military families face moves from base to base for the good of our national defense and these transfers cause unique financial pressures. In many cases, the non-military spouses may have to leave their employment due to a military transfer. Generally, individuals in Missouri that voluntarily quit their employment to move with a spouse are ineligible for unemployment benefits. This new law recognizes that spouses of military service personnel who must quit their jobs due to a military transfer are not quitting voluntarily but for the good of our nation. With this new law, the state is recognizing the sacrifices of military families who are relocating,” says Department Director Larry Rebman.

Robyn McCullem, mother of two small children, is relocating from Missouri to join her husband Private First Class Ryan McCullem in Fort Huachuca, Arizona. She has worked as a Distributor Sales Consultant for the past three years. Her last day was Friday and she filed her unemployment claim yesterday. “Being a military spouse presents its own unique challenges when it comes to having a full-time career. Leaving behind a job you love and uprooting your family isn’t voluntary when you are a military spouse,” says McCullem. “It’s nice to know our state supports those who have to make big career sacrifices and transitions to be with their soldier as they continue serving our country.”

House Bill 136 was sponsored by House Representative David Day, of Dixon. Rep. Day serves as Chairman of the House Veterans Committee. Prior to this new law, military spouses were not able to collect unemployment in Missouri if they left their job to travel with their spouse to a new duty station. Missouri is the 39th state to allow military spouses to file for unemployment benefits until they find full-time work.

Based on 2010 figures, this new law will provide benefits to more than 200 military families a year. For more information or to file for unemployment benefits, visit www.moclaim.mo.gov

New state law allows consumers to learn more about their physicians

2011-08-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

Under a new state law, Missouri consumers can now learn more about the educational history of their doctors. House Bill 265, signed by Gov. Jay Nixon, took effect yesterday and allows the State Board of Registration for the Healing Arts to release extensive information about licensed doctors for the first time. The board's website now allows consumers to learn about medical and professional schools attended by physicians, as well as any specialties or board certifications.

In addition, more information will soon be available to the public: Under the law, any future information submitted to the board may be released if it pertains to discipline by another government agency or court-ordered limitations on a doctor's practice.

"This law is a significant step toward better transparency for patients in Missouri," said John M. Huff, director of the Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration. "We always encourage consumers to learn as much as they can about the professionals they're doing business with, and that's especially important in a doctor-patient relationship."

House Bill 265

also gives more authority to the board to discipline doctors who violate the law. The board can now:

· More effectively seek an immediate suspension of a physician's license when the board believes the doctor is a danger to patients;

· Streamline the process for discipline of doctors;

· Move cases more quickly through the state Administrative Hearing Commission, which conducts hearings related to the discipline of doctors; and

· Discipline doctors for alcohol dependency, being on a sex offender registry or failing to cooperate with board investigations.

Consumers who would like to learn more about their physicians can use the licensee search

feature on the board's website at pr.mo.gov

, or they can contact the board by phone at 573-751-0098.

About the Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions & Professional Registration
The Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Institutions and Professional Registration (DIFP) is responsible for consumer protection through the regulation of financial industries and professionals. The department's seven divisions work to enforce state regulations both efficiently and effectively while encouraging a competitive environment for industries and professions to ensure consumers have access to quality products.

Worth County Sheriff's Report for August 31, 2011

2011-08-29T13:17:00.000-07:00

8-22 -- Person in with incident report.
8-23 -- Called Gentry County for two criminal history reports.
8-24 -- Person in for meeting with Sheriff.
8-25 -- 911 call for domestic disturbance in Grant City; Sheriff and deputy investigate; one person transported to join.
8-25 -- Worth County resident reports car/animal accident.
8-26 -- KCP&L lineman reports vandalism to light pole at 4th & High Street, Grant City.
8-26 -- Worth County Sheriff’s Department (WCSD) checks on a med alert call; “all OK.”
8-26 -- Person calls to report a house breakin in Grant City.
8-26 -- Missouri State Highway Patrol in office with a possible intoxicated driver.
8-26 -- WCSD investigates C&I driving in Grant City.

Northwest Cellular Changes Name

2011-08-29T12:25:00.000-07:00

As part of celebrating their 20 Year Anniversary, Northwest Missouri Cellular is making significant changes to the company’s image. Going forward, Northwest Missouri Cellular will be marketed simply as “NorthwestCell”. Roger Bundridge, NorthwestCell General Manager explained, “We’ve been contemplating the idea of changing our name for some time. Many of our customers already refer to us as NorthwestCell, which encouraged us to move forward.”

Bundridge pointed out the name change was done primarily for branding and marketing reasons in order to eliminate confusion regarding coverage. “When we first started, the name was descriptive of our service area. We have long since offered nationwide plans with no charge for roaming, but the name has at times resulted in the perception that we only offer local coverage,” Bundridge said. He continued, “In reality, a simple comparison of NorthwestCell coverage maps with those of our competitors reveal we actually offer the best nationwide service available to consumers in this area.”

For those who may misinterpret the name change, Bundridge clarified, “We have not been sold. Legally we retain the Northwest Missouri Cellular, LLP name. We remain the same locally owned and operated company that has served this area for over twenty years.”

NorthwestCell is also unveiling plans that include bundled voice, text and data, with an unlimited prepaid option to follow. Bundridge described these, along with continually expanding phone lineup as well, “We offer the latest Android and BlackBerry devices, along with basic and military grade tough phones. The wide selection of phones plus our new value bundles are definitely a reason to consider NorthwestCell.” Bundridge adds, “I invite everyone to stop by any of our locations to find out how much you can save with NorthwestCell. It’s not uncommon to see new customers who are willing to pay early termination charges with their old carrier simply because they’ll save that and more by switching to us. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.”

Jack Remembers -- Strangest Sale

2011-08-28T17:15:00.000-07:00

I’ve been a real estate broker since 1963. I started out specializing in farms and to this day have never sold a house in town. Back in the 1970’s the Trust Department of United Missouri Bank gave me two farms to sell, both were located in Jackson County, and both were 250 acres. The sale price was $1,000 per acre, or $500,000. I advertised the farms and received a call from a man who asked how much would have to be put down initially to purchase the farm. I told him 10% which would be $50,000. He asked me to meet him at a restaurant on Noland Road in Independence the next morning.

When I met the mystery man, he informed me he was representing the buyer, who wished to remain anonymous, and wanted me to buy the two farms in my name. I was to close the property at Chicago Title in Kansas City and at that time, to call him and he would give me the name of the buyer. Chicago Title was to do a flow-through from my name in to the anonymous purchaser’s name. He handed me a $50,000 Cashier’s Check made out to me, and told me to call him when I was ready to close and he would give me an additional check for the balance.

The original owner had left these two farms in his estate to the School of the Ozarks, Park College, and Children’s Mercy Hospital. It took me quite a while to get these three entities to sign off in order to close the property. I called the number I had been given and the man said to meet him the next morning at the same restaurant, same time. He handed me another Cashier’s Check made out to me in the amount of $450,000. I now had $500,000 cash, no contract, no signatures. I then went to Chicago Title, closed the property, made the phone call, and transferred the property to a Corporate name I was given. I found out later, the purchasers wanted the farms quite badly, but had a conflict of interest.

I made a $30,000 commission and can say it was the strangest sale of my career. If you are a real estate broker or agent and have an interesting transaction you would like to share, contact me.

Jack can be reached at PO Box 40, Oak Grove, MO 64075 or jackremembers@aol.com

110 Worth County Children are Food Insecure

2011-08-28T17:14:00.000-07:00

Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger relief organization released their study that reveals children in every county and congressional district are in the fight against hunger.

The study “Map the Meal Gap: Child Food Insecurity 2011” shows that in our service area figures range from 20-31 percent of children who are food insecure. The lowest county is Leavenworth coming in at 20.4 percent of children with food insecurity while Livingston comes in at 31.2 percent insecure rate.

One out of every four children in Second Harvest Community Food Bank service area is considered food insecure.

There are approximately 80,200 members of the population that fall under 18 years old and 19,700 or 25 percent are considered food insecure. In Worth County, MO, 428 members of the population fall under 18 years old and 24.5 percent or 110 children are considered to be food insecure.
In the “There can be no greater cause than to ensure children have enough food to be healthy, grow and learn. Second Harvest stands ready to strategically address this complex issue.” David Davenport, executive director, Second Harvest Community Food Bank. “We ask only that our community embrace the belief that hunger in the life of a child is unacceptable and act on that belief as an advocate, donor or volunteer.”

Being food insecure is defined as the lack of access at times to enough food for an active and healthy life; limited or uncertain unavailability of nutritionally adequate food. The term hunger means the uneasy or painful sensation caused by a lack of food. According to this study, millions of people in the United States are going without food.

Second Harvest is helping to end hunger in children via our Backpack Buddies program. Children who are eligible will receive a backpack on the weekends that contain nutritious food to help get through the weekend. This school year, over 2,000 children will receive assistance in 14 counties.

More information about the study can be found at http://feedingamerica.org/hunger-in-america/hunger-studies/map-the-meal-gap.aspx

Affordable Care Act funds will create jobs and target health improvement, local capacity building

2011-08-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius today awarded up to $137 million, partly supported by the Affordable Care Act, to states to strengthen the public health infrastructure and provide jobs in core areas of public health. Awarded in nearly every state, the grants enhance state, tribal, local and territorial efforts to provide tobacco cessation services, strengthen public health laboratory and immunization services, prevent healthcare-associated infections, and provide comprehensive substance abuse prevention and treatment.

“More than ever, it is important to help states fight disease and protect public health,” said Secretary Sebelius. “These awards are an important investment and will enable states and communities to help Americans quit smoking, get immunized and prevent disease and illness before they start.”

The grants will fund key state and local public health programs supported through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Most of these grant dollars come from the Prevention and Public Health Fund created by the Affordable Care Act. Additional SAMHSA dollars supplement this investment.

“CDC supports state and local public health departments which are key to keeping America safe from threats to health, safety, and security from this country or anywhere in the world,” said Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Thomas Frieden. “With these funds, CDC is strengthening our ability to prevent and combat diseases and keep Americans safe against expensive and dangerous health threats.”

“These funds will allow us to bolster public health services to communities and build on successful programs that have helped people lead healthier lives. Today’s investments will help us prevent future health care costs from problems such as tobacco-related illness and substance abuse,” said Pamela Hyde, administrator of SAMHSA.

The awards include:

$1 million to further enhance the nations’ public health laboratories by hiring and preparing scientists for careers in public health laboratories, providing training for scientists, and supporting public health initiatives related to infectious disease research.
Nearly $5 million to help states and territories enhance and expand the national network of tobacco cessation quitlines to increase the number of tobacco users who quit. Quitlines are the toll-free numbers people can call to obtain smoking cessation treatments and services.
More than $42 million to support: improvements to the Immunization Information Systems (registries) and other immunization information technologies; development of systems to improve billing for immunization services; planning and implementation of adult immunization programs; enhancement of vaccination capacity located in schools; and evaluations of the impact on disease of recent vaccine recommendations for children and adolescents.
$2.6 million to the Emerging Infections Programs around the country to continue improvement in disease monitoring, professional development and training, information technology development, and laboratory capacity.
$9.2 million to eight national non-profit professional public health organizations to assist state, tribal, local, and territorial health departments in adopting effective practices that strengthen their core public health systems and service delivery. They will also enhance the workforce by providing jobs in critical disciplines of epidemiology and informatics, thus attracting new talent to public health.
$1.5 million to evaluate and prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia to reduce cases of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections and protect Americans from healthcare-associated infectious diseases.
Up to $75 million to fund nine Screening, Brief Intervention, Referral and Treatment programs over the next five years. These programs will allow communities throughout the nation to provide more comprehensive substance abuse screening, secondary prevention, early intervention and referrals to treatment for people at higher risk for substance abuse. The actual award amounts may vary, depending on the availability of funds and the performance of the grantees.

Today’s announcement is another part of the Obama Administration’s broader effort to improve the health and well-being of our communities through initiatives such as the President’s Childhood Obesity Task Force, the First Lady’s Let’s Move! campaign, the National Quality Strategy, and the National Prevention Strategy. Similar to the Obama Administration’s Partnership for Patients which aims to make hospitals safer, more reliable and less costly, today’s announcement is also an important step in improving the quality of health care for all Americans.

A full list of grantees is available at: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2011pres/08/state_prevention_grants.html

Wind and Hail Damage Area Crops

2011-08-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

The injury from wind and hail damage hit many parts of northwest Missouri. Wind damage occurred about a month ago that affected northern Atchison, parts of Nodaway and Gentry counties. "Then we had two days of storms that combined straight wind and hail causing some of the worse crop injury that I have seen in my career in the Maryville area," explained Wayne Flanary, Agronomist with University of Missouri Extension.

Hail damage around the area varies in intensity. Crops around Maryville and Nodaway County were heavily damaged along with reports of damage in other counties. The worse hail damage looks as if the corn crop was harvested as the field is brown. Corn stalks are cut and lying on ground along with ears. Soybean stems also cut and lodged. This damage will be a complete loss.

Lighter damaged corn fields have shredded leaves, bruising and lodged corn. Most corn fields were in the dent stage. The starch is hardening causing a milk line. This line moves from the top of the kernel toward the cob. Kernels at this stage will not abort. Kernels may be lighter as the kernel continues to dry down. This is good news where corn fields have standing stalks with ears that can be harvested.

The wind damage from straight line winds broke and bent corn stalks over. In places, it's the whole field whereas others, there are areas within the field. This will be a slow harvest as growers try to pick-up as much lodged corn as possible.

As far as soybeans, the damage occurred during seed fill. The soybean plant takes energy from leaves and other plant parts and places this energy into the seed. Defoliation, broken stems, lodged soybeans all can be found.

Soybean plants will adjust growth for the condition of the individual plant. Four days after the injury, we are seeing brown pods which the soybean plant will abort and they will drop to the ground.

Soybeans will be affected greatly when leaves are lost and stems are bruised and cut. This damaged occurred during the critical seed fill. You can inspect your crops now and check for pod drop. With injury occurring this late in the season, plants will not compensate. They will set as much seed as each individual plant can with the stress placed on it.

The straight wind laid soybeans over in many fields. The shading affect of plants lying on top of each other will reduce yield.

For more information, contact Wayne Flanary at 660-446-3724 or Heather Benedict at 660-425-6434, Regional Agronomists, University of Missouri Extension.

Governor calls special session of the Missouri General Assembly

2011-08-28T14:38:00.000-07:00

Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon put a job-creation package and reforms to the state's tax credits on the schedule Monday for a Sept. 6 special session of the Missouri General Assembly.

"I appreciate the work the General Assembly has already done to achieve broad consensus on these priorities, and I look forward to continuing to work with legislators on both sides of the aisle during an efficient, focused and productive session," Nixon stated in a press release calling the session.

Missing from the agenda is the roughly $150 million that the governor has pulled from the budget and reallocated for disaster relief in areas such as Joplin — an item Nixon promised in July he would put on the agenda. However, Republican State Auditor Tom Schweich released an audit last week contesting Nixon's action.

"We are aware of no constitutional or statutory authority to withhold from appropriated expenditures based on state obligations that were unanticipated at the time the budget was passed by the General Assembly," the auditor wrote in a letter to Nixon.

The governor's office said Monday that the state is already spending out of that pool of funds. In a the statement on the special session, Nixon said the topic wouldn't be formally addressed because the damage assessments are still in progress.

"Before we can determine the best method to finance our recovery obligations, we must determine the full extent of the damage," Nixon said.

Other items that made the agenda for the special session include:

Creating tax incentives for an air cargo hub for China at St. Louis Lambert Airport;
Giving St. Louis control of its local police force;
Adding tax breaks for business, technology and amateur sports;
Moving the state's presidential primary to March.

Republican Calls on Kinder to Step Down over Adult Club Allegations

2011-08-28T14:34:00.001-07:00

The call came from Nixa Republican House member Kevin Elmer.

The southwest Missouri legislator said that Kinder's behavior in which he admitted to attending a club with scantily clad women was not in keeping with Republican values.

"It is the type of behavior that does not speak well for what it is that we stand for," Elmer said.

"It does not bode well for what it is our party stands for and the integrity of the people that we want to represent our state and community.

Elmer is the second Republican from southwest Missouri to abandon Kinder's campaign. Earlier a major contributor was reported to have asked for return of his contributions to Kinder.

Elmer said he had talked with other Republicans before announcing his position. He said none sought to discourage him and that he expected other Republicans to join his call for Kinder to step aside.

There was no immediate response from Kinder's spokespersons.

House Budget chair blisters the governor's budget director over disaster funds

2011-08-28T14:27:00.000-07:00

The House Budget Committee grilled State Budget Director Linda Luebbering about the $150 million being withheld by the governor for disaster relief. The governor has set aside the money in anticipation of payments to Joplin and other areas affected by natural disasters without knowing exactly how much money is needed.

Committee chairman Ryan Silvey, R-Kansas City, charged Gov. Jay Nixon's action was unconstitutional because the state's constitution does not give him power to withhold funds from the budget to use the money for other purposes.

Article 4, Section 27 of the Missouri Constitution empowers the governor to withhold funds if revenue collections are running below the estimate upon which the budget was based. Silvey charges that provision does not empower the governor to cut agency allotments to reserve funds for other purposes the governor wants to finance.

Luebbering said money is needed to cover the expected costs for disaster relief in Joplin and the flooding in southeast Missouri. State obligations could include debris removal or rebuilding schools but as of now there is no breakdown of the specific costs, she said.

"We think setting aside $150 million for all these efforts is a perfectly reasonable amount of money," Luebbering said.

Silvey and other members of the committee questioned why the governor was withholding money from the 2012 fiscal year instead of using the money available in the state's Rainy Day Fund. Created in 2000 as the Budget Reserve Fund, the Rainy Day Fund contains roughly $500 million, half of which can be used for disaster relief payments.

"The Rainy Day Fund is an option," Luebbering said. "I don't know if we will use the Rainy Day Fund."

The constitution requires a two-thirds vote by the General Assembly to use the Rainy Day Fund for emergency relief. In July, Nixon said he would include disaster relief funding as part of the legislature's special session that begins Sept. 6, but in the official call issued Aug. 22, Nixon left out the issue. A special session can take up only the specific issues included in the governor's call.

Silvey questioned why the governor decided to exclude the legislature from discussing the disaster funding in the special session.

Directly facing Nixon's top budget official, Silvey repeatedly voiced frustration about the administration's approach, saying, "The governor does not want to deal with the legislature."

Luebbering said the governor made the decision to restrict expenditures to allow for more flexibility later in the year. She said the governor's office was looking at the broader constitutionality of the issue and previous court cases that established precedence for the decision to withhold funds. She could not name the cases she was referring to.

"The executive branch has the authority to balance the budget," Luebbering said.

Silvey said he did not feel a solution was reached at the meeting but was glad the committee served its purpose in questioning the decision.

"It's clear that the governor does not like dealing with the legislature," said Silvey. "It's clear that he'd rather have flexibility than go along with the constitution."

Rep. Chris Kelly, D-Columbia, told the committee the issues with the governor's budget is due to the legislature's own action in crafting a budget that left the door open for the governor to use funds for disaster relief without clear legislative authorization. He called on the Budget Committee to close the administrative flexibility in executive spending.

"It is easy to drive a truck through that little flexibility hole without seeing the damage," Kelly said.

Silvey said these issues will likely affect bills in the next legislative session.

"Our problem isn't where's the money's going but the process that it's getting there," Silvey said. "We want to see the money going where we appropriated it."

Earlier this month, State Auditor Tom Schweich sent the governor a letter questioning the constitutionality of the governor's budget withholding actions. Schweich charged that Luebbering's budget official failed to provide any information substantiating that revenue collections were falling below the original estimates upon which the budget was based.

Nixon adds social media communication by teachers to the legislature's special session.

2011-08-28T14:24:00.000-07:00

Gov. Jay Nixon issued a news release Friday (Aug. 26) adding another item to the agenda of the legislature's special session that begins Sept. 6.

Nixon added repeal of a provision that critics have charged would block teachers from using social media like Facebook from communicating with their students.

The provision was part of a broader bill dealing with requirements for public schools in dealing with allegations of sexual misconduct by school employees.

"In a digital world, we must recognize that social media can be an important tool for teaching and learning," Nixon was quoted as saying in his office announcement.

Nixon's announcement was issued shortly after a Cole County judge issued an order barring enforcement of the new law.

The bill's sponsor, Sen. Jane Cunningham, R-St. Louis County, said restricting use of social media for legitimate communications with students was not the intention of her measure. She was reported to be meeting with education leaders to draft a bill clarifying the issue.

McCaskill Statement on Cuts to Missouri Disaster Relief Funds

2011-08-28T14:08:00.000-07:00

U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill released the following statement following a decision by the Federal Emergency Management Administration to redirect funding from Joplin and other Missouri areas that have received federal disaster declarations, to communities impacted by Hurricane Irene.

"Days ago I walked the streets of Joplin. I saw construction projects where rubble had been, I saw parks where trees had toppled, and I saw a community trying to heal and rebuild -- I didn't see any camera trucks. I warned FEMA and assured victims in Joplin that they would not be forgotten after the camera trucks lowered their antennas and rolled out of town, I will fight to make sure that promise is kept. FEMA should be prepared for all types of disasters and have the resources to respond rapidly and stay until the work is done, and until the community is made whole again."

Missouri's auditor sues the governor.

2011-08-28T13:55:00.000-07:00

The lawsuit by Republican Tom Schweich charges the Democratic governor has violated the state constitution by withholding appropriations to state agencies, including education, to provide funds for natural disaster relief.

At issue is a constitutional provision giving the governor power to withhold appropriations from state agencies if revenues fall below the original estimates upon which the budget was based.

Jay Nixon has based his withholding on the basis of needing the money in order to provide additional money for natural disaster relief involving damages from the Joplin tornado and flooding along the Missouri and Mississippi rivers.

On August 19, Schweich had sent the governor a letter questioning Nixon's constitutional authority to withhold funds. In the letter, Schweich charged the governor's budget director failed to provide any data demonstrating there was an actual shortage in revenue collections.

Article IV, Section 27 provides that "The governor may...reduce expenditures of the state or any of its agencies below their appropriations whenever the the actual revenues are less than the revenue estimates upon which the appropriations were based."

Earlier this summer, Nixon had announced he would include the disaster relief funding in the legislature's special session that begins Sept. 6.

But in his official call, issued after Schweich's letter, Nixon dropped the natural disaster issue from his formal call. In a written statement, Nixon was quoted as saying they did not yet have a full estimate of the costs.

“Starting a Business: The First Steps”

2011-08-28T10:33:00.000-07:00

Many individuals have the dream and desire to someday own a business. Unfortunately, many of these same people don’t know where to start. Moreover, they are afraid to make that leap into entrepreneurship because they do not know enough about taxes, licenses, financing, and marketing. If this sounds like you, make plans to attend “Starting a Business: the First Steps,” a University of Missouri Extension seminar. The seminar will be 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, September 15, 2011, at the Buchanan County Extension Office, 4125 Mitchell Ave., St. Joseph, MO

The instructor for the seminar is Tom Kelso, MU Extension Northwest Region Business Development Specialist. He will review the basics involved in starting your own business, explain the importance of planning, discuss the legal and regulatory requirements; and identify sources of funding, and steps which should be taken to market your product or service.

Registration for the seminar is required by Monday the 12th either by calling or e-mailing Tom Kelso, MU Extension Business Development Specialist at 660-446-3724 or kelsot@missouri.edu,. The registration fee is $35 and payable when you attend the class.

At the conclusion of the seminar, if you need additional assistance, you may arrange to meet with a business consultant through MU Extension.

Let us help you make your dream a reality. The MU extension seminar on “Starting a Business: The first Steps” will be 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon September 15, 2011, at the Buchanan County Extension Office, 4125 Mitchell Ave., St. Joseph, MO

If you need special accommodations because of a disability, or if you need materials in an alternative format, please inform Tom Kelso, MU extension business development specialist at least two weeks prior to the seminar to make arrangements.

Learn about other business development offerings and resources at: http://www.missouribusiness.net/

Cut to the Chase -- Labor Day and Agriculture

2011-08-25T19:44:00.000-07:00

Labor Day and Agriculture
Monday, September 5th, is the 117th observance of Labor Day in the United States. We can thank America’s labor unions, the real creators of Labor Day, for this national holiday. The industrial revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries resulted in vast numbers of people leaving the farm to live in cities and to work in factories.

Working conditions then were awful compared to current standards. To improve their lot in life, workers became involved in the infancy of the labor union movement, participating in parades to draw attention to the union effort to improve working conditions for the American worker.

President Grover Cleveland signed the Labor Day Act into law in 1894, declaring it a legal public holiday. We still observe Labor Day 117 years later, but few Americans will attach the importance of the labor movement to the holiday. This is not to belittle the significance of Labor Day, but when Congress created the concept of observing many holidays on Mondays rather than on their actual dates, it significantly reduced the meaning of the events beyond the fact they provide us three-day weekends.

Consider, however, the importance of Labor Day to our country when it was established and declared a legal holiday. Americans were given a paid day off work to allow them to attend and participate in parades and special ceremonies recognizing the labor movement. We still have parades, ceremonies and speeches to recognize the American worker on Labor Day, but most of us will not attend; after all, it is a three-day weekend near summer’s end, perfect for swimming, water skiing and barbecue.

Even if we do think of Labor Day, few will consider the American farmer since few farmers would embrace the labor movement as a practical method for filing grievances. Farmers going on strike in spring prior to planting would result in no crop to harvest in the fall. The consequences would be disastrous.

As an industry, however, agriculture deserves special recognition on Labor Day. While most of us are far removed from farming, it is important to note approximately 20 percent of us have jobs thanks to farming. So, happy Labor Day from the nation's biggest employer – American farmers.

Denny Banister, of Jefferson City, Mo., is the Assistant Director of Public Affairs for the Missouri Farm Bureau, the state’s largest farm organization.

Worth County Sheriff's Report for August 24th

2011-08-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

8-15 -- Local business owner reports pop machine broken into.
8-15 -- Repo company calls about a car in Worth County.
8-15 -- Local citizen in about a mail scam.
8-17 -- Worth County Sheriff’s Department (WCSD) investigates 911 hangup call.
8-18 -- WCSD investigates car/deer accident, North 169.
8-18 -- Daviess/DeKalb jail transports prisoner to Worth County court.
8-19 -- Missouri State Highway Patrol needs information on Worth County population.
8-19 -- Person in for CCW renewal.
8-21 -- WCSD investigating a domestic disturbance.
8-21 -- WCSD investigating a C&I report.

To report a problem, contact the secure phone line at (660) 564-2222. For emergencies, dial 911.

$2.9 Million in Stolen Property Returned by Task Force

2011-08-20T19:02:00.001-07:00

Standing with Missouri law enforcement and agriculture leaders at the State Fair, Gov. Jay Nixon today announced that the Missouri Livestock and Farm Protection Task Force has recovered more than $2.8 million in property stolen in rural areas since 2009.

The task force works with the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Rural Crimes Investigative Unit (RCIU), local sheriffs, farmers, cattlemen and pork producers to target the theft of livestock and farm equipment, as well as other property and drug crimes that affect Missouri’s rural communities. The federal government designates 97 of Missouri’s 114 counties as rural.

“The cooperation between state and local law enforcement, along with farmers and ranchers is making a real difference in recovering property, preventing livestock and equipment thefts, and making Missouri’s rural communities safer and more secure,” Gov. Nixon said. “Two years ago, I reconstituted the Livestock and Farm Protection Task Force to track and respond to crime trends in rural communities. This partnership, information sharing and plain hard work have exceeded my very high expectations.”

Gov. Nixon said that as of Aug. 15, the Livestock and Farm Protection Task Force and Rural Crimes Investigative Unit have:

investigated 891 incidents, including 799 working in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies;
been involved in the arrest of 182 suspects; and
recovered $2,871,738 in stolen property

Property recoveries have included livestock, tractors, trailers, farm equipment, ATVs and large quantities of fertilizer. An undercover investigation into the theft of John Deere tractors led to the recovery of equipment valued at about $350,000 and arrests across several counties in southwest Missouri. In conjunction with the Livestock and Farm Protection Task Force, the RCIU has held regional rural crime summits around the state, meeting with law enforcement, farmers and business owners to discuss information sharing and protective measures.

“Criminals often don’t operate in a single county or region of our state, so it’s important that we in law enforcement network, share information and collaborate,” said Col. Ron Replogle, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. “The task force and RCIU are perfect for intelligence sharing and for directing additional investigative resources into an area that might be experiencing a rise in criminal activity.”

“Missouri farmers and ranchers have to deal with tough weather conditions, global competition and other challenges, so reducing crime and the fear of the theft of valuable equipment and livestock helps the bottom line,” said Missouri Department of Agriculture Director Dr. Jon Hagler. “The Livestock and Farm Protection Task Force has a proven record of recovering equipment, reducing crime and educating rural communities about crime prevention.”

Livestock and Farm Protection Task Force members include the Missouri Department of Agriculture, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Missouri Sheriffs’ Association, the Missouri Office of Prosecution Services, the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, the Missouri Pork Association, the Missouri Farm Bureau, the Missouri Livestock Market Association, the Missouri Bankers’ Association, the University of Missouri Extension, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The Livestock and Farm Protection Task Force and RCIU encourage tips from the public to the Rural Crime Tip Line (888-484-8477). Tips about rural crime may be made anonymously. Calls are taken 24 hours a day.

Obituary -- Dr. Jack Parker 1928-2011

2011-08-20T17:54:00.001-07:00

Dr. Jack O. Parker, 82, was born August 23, 1928 and passed away August 18, 2011 at Heartland Hospital in St. Joseph, Missouri, five days prior to his 83rd Birthday.
“Doc” was born to Wilma and Wilzie Parker in Isadora, Missouri. He graduated from Parnell High School in 1947. He studied Veterinary Medicine at the University of Missouri Veterinary College in Columbia, MO, class of 1954. He served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. “Doc” practiced Veterinary Medicine in Grant City for 28 years, also served as Grant City Mayor. Later he became a Federal Meat Inspector for the USDA in Waldron Arkansas and New Mexico. He retired in 1989.
Jack was a member of the Christian Church in Ravenwood, MO, and the American Legion Tri.C Memorial Post # 464, Conception Junction, MO.
On June 12, 1948, Jack married Marjorie Lucille Young of Bedison, MO. They had 63 years together. They were blessed with two daughters, Deborah and husband Mike Fletchall, Stanberry, MO, and Diane and husband Randy Osborn of Grant City, five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Also surviving are three half sisters: Lettie and husband Sonny Kneedler, Sue and husband Leroy Benge, Patty and husband Willie Benge, all of Winterset, Iowa; sisters Fern Burns, Arlene Carroll and Betty Smith:
“Doc” was preceded in death by mother Wilma, step-father Ralph McClure, father Wilzie, brother Joe Parker, and sister Venetta Robertson.
Funeral Services will be 2;00 p.m. Monday, August 22, 2011 at Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City, MO, with visitation one hour prior to service. Interment will be in the Nodaway Memorial Gardens, Maryville, MO. Military Rites will be presented by American Legion Tri-C Memorial Post # 464 of Conception Junction, MO. Memorial contributions may be given to the Christian Church, Ravenwood, MO.

Nick Adcock Represents US at Thorpe Cup

2011-08-20T16:45:00.000-07:00

Nick Adcock, former MU track and field decathlete/heptathlete, traveled to California to represent the USA, August 13, 14, 2011 at The Thorpe Cup, which was held at the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista, CA.
The Thorpe Cup is an annual International Track & Field (decathlon/heptathlon) Meet between the USA and Germany men and women, each having 7 men & women athletes to compete for their country; the meet is named after USA Olympian Jim Thorpe who won the first Olympic gold medals for the 1912 pentathlon and decathlon.
This was Adcock's 3rd consecutive year to represent the USA at The Thorpe Cup; the last two years were held in Marburg, Germany.
Adcock's first day of competition consisted of the 100 meter dash at 11.23, long jump 23' 10&3/4", shot put 44' 4&1/4", high jump 6' 6", and ending day one with the 400 meter run at 48.85 with a score of 4,043. He was in third place and top American behind Germans Hechler and Fricke.
On day two Adcock started with 110 meter hurdles at 14.41, then discus 125' 9", pole vault 15' 1&1/2", javelin 168' 4" and ending the day with the 1500 meter run at 4:39.58 with a total score of the two days of 7,679 and taking 5th place overall and the second highest scoring American.
The German men won 38,870 to the USA men 38,006, but the USA Men leads over the German Men in the 18 years of competition 13 to 5.
The USA women won 17,611 over the German Women 17,115 in the heptathlon competition.
In 2012, the Thorpe Cup will be back in Marburg, Germany.
Adcock is the son of Gary & Sue Adcock of Kansas City, MO, grandson of Galen & Betty Ruckman of Grant City, MO and Carl & Virginia Adcock of Bethany, MO.

Groom Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges

2011-08-17T21:29:00.000-07:00

The Associated Press and KCTV 5 report that former Worth County Sheriff Bear Groom has pleaded guilty Wednesday to federal charges of depriving eight women of their civil rights by forcing them to expose parts of their bodies to him. In addition, prosecutors alleged that he took pictures of them as well. Groom served as Sheriff until he was ousted by Independent Candidate Terry Sheddrick in a three way race in 2008. He served for eight years.

Editorial: Sorry, Governor, studies do not reflect reality

2011-08-17T15:17:00.000-07:00

The governor's office recently released a study purporting to show that Missouri had grown from 40th to 28th in a study by the University of Nebraska Bureau of Business Research. The problem with that study is that it does not reflect the whole picture of the area. The fact of the matter is that the whole state is not sharing in this growth that Governor Nixon is touting in advance of the 2012 races, when the political races heat up. And supposedly, Missouri's jump was the greatest improvement of any Midwestern state.

But the fact of the matter is that the bleeding here in Worth County and the rest of this region is continuing unabated. Population is still declining. The Gunstock Factory, which was one of the main lynchpins of economic revival efforts here 10 years ago, shut down and the building is up for sale. Northeast Nodaway had to close down the Parnell school and consolidate with Ravenwood. Over 25 businesses employing over 50 people have closed just in Worth County alone in the last few years. The fact of the matter is that we are not sharing in this prosperity that the governor is talking about in advance of the 2012 election.

The news release goes on to tout all of the governor's accomplishments over the last few years since he has been in office. But the fact of the matter is that we're getting left behind. With the fall sports season on us again, we are reminded that teams are only as good as their weakest link. Even Michael Jordan could not produce a winning season when he played for the Washington Wizards his last two years -- he simply did not have a strong enough supporting cast. As long as Worth County and other such parts of the state are not sharing in this growth, Governor Nixon has not done enough. Numbers are fun to look at and programs are fun to look back on, but they do not reflect the whole picture.

Gov. Nixon commits to rebuilding Missouri River levees

2011-08-17T15:10:00.001-07:00

During a visit to St. Joseph this afternoon, Gov. Jay Nixon said his administration is committed to helping rebuild levees along the Missouri River that have been damaged by record flooding this year. The Governor also announced that he will attend a meeting with upstream governors on flood-control issues scheduled to take place this Friday in Omaha.

“Over the past several months, historic releases of water from upstream reservoirs have placed unprecedented pressure and stress on levees across Missouri,” Gov. Nixon said. “These levees protect communities, vital infrastructure and some of the most productive farmland in the world. As the water falls over the coming weeks and months, we must complete an accurate assessment of the damage and move quickly to repair, rebuild and strengthen our levees.”

Gov. Nixon has announced his intention to call a special session of the Missouri General Assembly in September to take up a number of vital measures to create jobs, grow the economy and move Missouri forward. One of the session’s key priorities will be to develop a plan to pay for necessary repairs and rebuilding along hundreds of miles of damaged levees across Missouri and to support disaster recovery in other parts of the state.

Also today, Gov. Nixon announced that on Friday, he will join the governors of upstream Missouri River states for the meeting on flood control.

“The state of Missouri’s position on river management is clear: Flood control must be the top priority,” Gov. Nixon said. “I’m looking forward to this opportunity to emphasize that priority with my fellow governors from the upstream states.”

Gov. Nixon and the other governors also will have the opportunity to question Brigadier Gen. John R. McMahon, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers northwest district, about the decisions and factors that led to this historic flood.

Gov. Nixon made his announcement today at the Remington Nature Center in St. Joseph, where on June 2, he advised Missourians to prepare for imminent flooding. At that time, the Governor reported that all six major reservoirs along the upper Missouri River were at capacity, and that additional rainfall and snowmelt within the watershed would worsen the situation.

On June 8, Gov. Nixon ordered the Missouri National Guard to serve as the state’s lead agency on flood preparedness and fighting. In response to this order, the Guard deployed hundreds of Citizen-Soldiers to fill and place sandbags, inspect levees and support local efforts. Citizen-Soldiers continue to perform security and traffic patrols in northwest Missouri.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is now releasing 150,000 cubic feet per second from the Gavins Point Dam, and will continue to release this rate through Aug. 18. Beginning Aug. 18, flows will decrease by 5,000 cubic feet per second per day until they reach the rate of 90,000 cubic feet per second. Today’s release rate is still more than twice the previous record.

Obituary -- Leatrice Rinehart 1926-2011

2011-08-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

Leatrice M. Rinehart was born July 15, 1926 in Mt. Ayr, Iowa to John Thomas and Mary Maude (Smith) Golliday. She died August 14, 2011 in Mt. Ayr, Iowa at the age of 85.
Leatrice graduated from the Mt. Ayr High School. She married Calvin Rinehart on July 12, 1946. He preceded her in death July 14, 2011. Leatrice was a very religious person, accepting the Lord as her Savior at a young age. She enjoyed reading the Bible and going to church as long as her health permitted. She was a member of the First United Church of Diagonal, Iowa. She was homemaker who took great pride at her hard work at home as well as helping others.
Also preceding her in death were son: Steve Rinehart; daughter: Diane Hartley; her parents; and her only brother: Harold Golliday.
Leatrice is survived by 2 sons: Danny Rinehart of Davis City, Iowa and Jerry Rinehart of Des Moines, Iowa; 1 daughter: Debbie Burton of Maloy, Iowa; 7 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren who were the pride and joy of her life.
Leatrice will be sadly missed by family and friends.
Funeral Services were 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, August 17, 2011 at the Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City, Missouri. Pastor Brent Baxley officiated. Interment was in the Allendale Cemetery in Allendale, Missouri.

Brad Lager's Capitol Report -- Missouri State Fair

2011-08-16T10:37:00.001-07:00

The 2011 Missouri State Fair

The 2011 Missouri State Fair is now underway. For more than 100 years, the Fair has been a celebration of Missouri’s rich agricultural history and a showcase for the hard work of so many young talented Missourians. The Fair serves as the opportunity to honor the accomplishments of Missouri’s farm families and to get a glimpse at the future of Missouri agriculture.

While the State Fair serves as the platform to celebrate our history and traditions, it also plays a vital role in shaping those who will carry on this heritage thereby ensuring that Missouri continues to be a leader in agricultural production. Many organizations, such as Future Farmers of America and 4-H, do a tremendous job of supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders. Through their work and encouragement, thousands of agricultural entries are submitted at the Fair each year. The preparation of these entries teaches Missouri’s future leaders the work and commitment necessary to be successful in this ever evolving industry.

Our current and future farmers have access to markets that go beyond the produce aisle of the local grocery store. They now compete in a global economy which has fueled many farmers to diversify their production by participating in value added agriculture processes. Whether it is participating in a renewable fuels process or taking part in the quality meats initiative, the opportunities within these growing markets are tremendous.

The Missouri State Fair has something in store for each of the 300,000 visitors who pass through the gates each year. The dedication and support from parents, teachers, neighbors, and other local leaders who volunteer to support our young farming programs is encouraging. The State Fair serves as the showcase of the endless opportunities in our agricultural industry and I look forward to this bright and exciting future.

As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns. The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is brad.lager@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 422, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.

Worth County Sheriff's Report for August 17, 2011

2011-08-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

8-8 -- Worth County Sheriff’s Department (WCSD) responds to a disturbance at Casey’s.
8-9 -- Report of a possible break-in at Grant City residence.
8-10 -- WCSD responds to suspicious car north of Denver on Rim Rock Trail.
8-10 -- WCSD investigates report of possible break-in at Grant City business.
8-10 -- WCSD investigates report of vandalism at another Grant City business.
8-11 -- Grant City resident reports a stolen car; recovered.
8-11 -- WCSD responds to 911 call near Oxford; “pocket call.”
8-12 -- Person in to report lost license plate.
8-12 -- Person in to get Concealed Carry Permit.
8-13 -- WCSD responds to call of out of control juvenile.
8-13 -- WCSD investigates a car-cow accident.

To report a problem, please contact the Worth County Sheriff’s Department at (660) 564-2222. For emergencies, dial 911.

WCCC News -- Residents Attend Rodeo

2011-08-16T09:58:00.001-07:00

Shirley Pierce led Sunday School on Sunday morning. There was a good attendance. Shirley has led Sunday School for us for several years; the residents always look forward to it.

Exercise started off our week on Monday August 8th. We played Bingo later in the day and had a very good crowd. Bingo is a favorite of our residents. Becky Supinger and Rachel Downey stopped by later in the afternoon, the residents always enjoys the different stories.

Tuesday morning several of the ladies had manicures. That is always a good time for a cup of coffee and some visiting, Resident Council met in the afternoon. Howard Burns was the big winner of the Tuesday Domino tournament.

Wednesday the WCCC Auxiliary met. We are looking forward to the Labor Day Cookout. It will be held the evening of Thursday September 1st. Bingo was the game of choice Wednesday afternoon; Alice Nash was the blackout winner.

Alice Nash, Zeke Wake, Merle Foley, Maxine Roberts, Lois Constant and Alice Miller went for a ride on Thursday. We drove down to Gentry; that prompted a lot of memories and discussion about the stores that used to be there and the people who used to live there.

Maxine Roberts, Lois Constant and Verna Coker attended the Senior Center meal on Friday. The Allendale Rodeo was Friday evening and everyone had a great time. Etha Pearl Ray, Merle Foley, Alvin Marsh, Ina Jones and Maxine Roberts attended. I would like to thank Vickie Miller and the Allendale CBC for being so accommodating.

Jack Remembers -- Saturday Nights, Part II

2011-08-16T09:27:00.001-07:00

Dale Ensor, Lafayette County Treasurer, grew up on a farm near Butler. His family went to town every Saturday afternoon and sold their eggs for enough money to buy groceries for the upcoming week. Dale said after selling the eggs his mother went to the grocery store, his dad went to the feed store, and he went to the movie. The movie cost a dime, popcorn was a nickel, which out of his quarter allowance left him ten cents for a comic book. When he was old enough to buy a car, he continued to come to town every Saturday night where the young people had a square dance on the square. The band for the square dance consisted two guitars, a fiddle, banjo, and a caller on a flatbed wagon. Later in life, Dale said his mother got tired of looking at that big stack of comic books he had purchased every Saturday afternoon and threw them away. He figures if he had them today, they would be worth at least a new car.

I’ve had several people tell me Emma and Grain Valley had a free outdoor movie shown on the side of a building. The farmers at Emma went to Concordia to buy their groceries and the farmers near Grain Valley went to Oak Grove.

In Oak Grove on Saturday night, there were two barber shops which were so full it would take two to three hours to get a hair cut. Every once in a while, a town resident would be in the shop so he could hear all the gossip. My dad would be beside himself, saying “So and so could get a hair cut anytime during the week, why did he do it on Saturday night?” Looking back he was probably mad because by the time he got out of the barber shop, my mom would be ready to go home and he never had a chance to drink a beer a Vic’s Café.

Please let me know the Saturday night tradition in your home town.

Jack can be reached at PO Box 40, Oak Grove, MO 64075 or jackremembers@aol.com

Cut to the Chase -- A New Kind of Tourism

2011-08-14T18:26:00.000-07:00

A New Type of Vacation
By Samantha Warner

With the price of gas and current state of the economy, many Missourifamilies find it more difficult to take big, extravagant vacations. More people are taking advantage of the thriving agritourism industry across the state.
People who do not come from an agriculture background see agritourism as a way to experience farm and ranch life and educate their children while vacationing as a family. A driving force behind this is the increasing "local food" movement and an interest in where food comes from and how it is produced.
Some popular attractions in Missouri include: corn mazes, pumpkin patches, you-pick produce farms, trail rides, farmstead bed and breakfasts, Christmas tree farms, and educational activities geared towards elementary students.
Even though there are many great rewards for farmers and ranchers involved in agritourism, there are challenges to overcome. How to handle the liability of guests and how to best market a destination are among them.
Missouri Farm Bureau understands the importance of agritourism to its members and has an Agritourism Advisory Committee to help address challenges faced by the industry. Missouri Farm Bureau is committed to helping farmers succeed in pursuing agritourism opportunities, while also connecting the consumer to the product. To assist in this process the MFB website has a page dedicated to agritourism.
To access the page go to www.mofb.org, and click on the "Marketing & Commodities" tab. When the marketing page loads, click on the "Missouri Agritourism" tab - this will lead you to a listing of over 400 agritourism sites around the state just waiting for you and your family to come explore.
Whether you are a farmer looking to supplement your income by sharing the lifestyle you love with others from a non agriculture background, or you are looking for a local and unique vacation experience, give Missouri agritourism a try.
(Samantha Warner, of Archie, Mo., attends Missouri State University, and is a summer intern for Missouri Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization.)

Western Corn Rootworm Update

2011-08-14T18:16:00.000-07:00

Western Corn Rootworm Update

Western corn rootworm field populations in eastern Iowa have developed resistance to the Cry3Bb1 rootworm trait according to Iowa State Entomologists. This is first confirmation of this type of resistance.

Researchers collected western corn rootworm adults from grower fields which had injury. They then grew the off-spring from these insects and conducted greenhouse research where the insects were exposed to the trait. The off-spring was less susceptible to this trait.

Growers were contacted and four problem fields had been planted to hybrids with this trait for at least three consecutive years. The control fields utilized a diversity of crops in a rotation and different management practices to prevent rootworm development and the insects did not develop resistance.

This is a reminder that we should continue planting the appropriate refuge and continuing to use integrated pest management practices such as pest scouting, use of economic thresholds, pest identification, crop rotation and other methods of pest control.

For more information, contact Wayne Flanary at 660-446-3724 or Heather Benedict at 660-425-6434, Regional Agronomists, University of Missouri Extension.

State Treasurer Clint Zweifel says Missouri's $4 billion investment portfolio is secure

2011-08-14T18:13:00.000-07:00

State Treasurer Clint Zweifel (ZWY-ful) issued a statement today about the continued strong fiscal health of the state's $4 billion investment portfolio in light of recent market fluctuation.

"Missourians should be confident in the health of their tax dollars I manage because those dollars are invested with prudence, using fiscally sound financial principles," Treasurer Zweifel said. "I want Missourians to know our bills will continue to be paid, and the $4 billion investment portfolio continues to be monitored with the utmost care, as it has been since the day I took office. The principles guiding our investments have not changed because they have been sound from day one - I focus on safety through conservative investments and manage liquidity so that our bills are always paid on time. The state's investment portfolio has not suffered any losses, and I am confident we will not be impacted because of the broad diversity and institutional safety put in place."

The investment portfolio is made up of funds not currently used to meet the state's cash flow needs. The investment portfolio consists of the following as of July 31:
U.S. Treasury Debt - 8 percent
U.S. Agency Debt - 51 percent
Repurchase Agreements - 18 percent
Bank Time Deposits - 17 percent
Highly-rated Commercial Paper - 6 percent

Big Catfish Swim in Small Streams

2011-08-14T18:10:00.000-07:00

Sometimes big fish swim in seemingly small waters, such as the streams flowing through the rolling hills of northwest Missouri. It's not always obvious looking down on brownish rivers such as the Platte, Nodaway, Grand and One Hundred and Two - but huge flathead, blue and channel catfish lurk in their riverbed's deep holes.

Those anglers willing to do some paddling can enjoy a solitary experience and the chance to catch a trophy catfish, said Tory Mason, an MDC fisheries biologist who also fishes as a hobby.

"I've almost always caught fish just using rod and reel on canoe trips," Mason said. "I've never run into any other people when I'm out floating on these rivers."

As a biologist conducting catfish population surveys on rivers, he's also encountered some behemoths such as a blue catfish in the lower Nodaway River that he estimates topped 80 pounds. Catfish often enter streams in the state's northwest region from the Missouri River and swim upstream into the current, and perhaps that fish was one.

But sometimes very large catfish are caught far from the Missouri River in the upper reaches of streams that once drained prairies and now flow through farm land.

Josh Hendrix of Bolckow, Mo., in June caught a mammoth flathead catfish on a trotline baited with chub minnows in the One Hundred and Two River in Andrew County. It was far too big for his scale's top weight of 50 pounds, and he estimated the weight at 75 pounds.

"I could barely lift it," Hendrix said.

But catching big catfish in prairie rivers usually requires some angler effort to reach the more remote segments of streams, said Conservation Agent Michele Holland, who is based in Andrew County. The fish congregate in deep holes scoured by currents, and float fishing from johnboats or canoes is the best way to reach those spots. Getting boats up and down steep banks, even where public access is available, can be tricky.

"It can be a workout," Holland said.

MDC offers public access to rivers at conservation areas but boat ramps for launching large craft may not be available at generally shallow, upland streams. For instance, the Happy Holler Conservation Area north of Savannah offers bank access to the One Hundred and Two River but no boat ramps. Some rivers that are deeper in their lower reaches, such as the Platte River, do have boat ramps. But anglers should be aware that flooding can sometimes temporarily cover those ramps with mud and silt.

Anglers can look for accesses at the http://www.mdc.mo.gov/ website. Scroll down and on the right is a "Regs and Areas" box with options, select "Conservation Areas." Select the county where you plan to fish and click on "Find," and a list of conservation areas and river accesses will appear. Select the area to see what type of access is available.

Once on the river, finding fish can be pretty simple, Mason said.

"Your paddle will hit bottom for half the float," he said. "Then you'll come to a spot where you can't hit bottom. That's where the fish are. You can eliminate a lot of fishless water that way."

June and July are prime month for catching catfish in prairie streams. But August into autumn can be productive, too, because cooler weather and rains that cause a rise in water flow trigger fish to feed more actively. Mason likes to fish with dip or stink baits in late summer.

Autumn also brings on fall color and smaller streams often wind through scenic areas, Holland said, including the segment of the One Hundred and Two River that passes through the Happy Holler Conservation Area.

"It can be a pretty float," she said. "We usually don't run into anyone else on the water, even on a Saturday. _ Bill Graham

Bill Graham - Media Specialist
Missouri Department of Conservation
Gorman Discovery Center
4750 Troost Ave.
Kansas City, Mo. 64110
816-759-7305 ext. 1131
Fax: 816-759-7333

Haleys Bring In Record Fishing Haul

2011-08-14T18:08:00.001-07:00

--Submitted by Jeff Haley. Jeff Haley and his Haley cousins Jim Haley and his 3 boys - Matt, Paul and Patrick all 4 of Maryland - descendents of Jesse Haley - once Mayor of Sheridan MO - were on a recent "fishing trip" - thought it would be nice to share with residents of Sheridan.

Started up north thinking marlin & tuna, but after a few days of limited tuna action, the damm things were biting south of me about 20 miles, and after an hour of no bites and little sign of life I couldn't take it any more, so we started running....marked 2 places of tuna on the way and stopped but could not get a bite so we picked up and started running again.... in my mind I knew I was going to be late for the party.... this time of year usually the tuna bite is short and sweet, if at all .....got down to the pack of boats and set out and in 10 minutes hooked a single 40 lb yellowfin....happy days.....at least we weren't skunked....got going again and hooked a double header, than an single 50 lb fish, and then hooked a bigeye which Jeffrey Haley, from Missouri, boated after a half hour.....101 lbs to earn a citation on the first offshore fishing trip he has ever been on... then we boated several more tunas and a wahoo to end one of the Obsessions best late inning comebacks!