Ralph Davidson Killed in Accident

Ralph Davidson, 72, of Sheridan, was killed in an accident Thursday morning. The Missouri Highway Patrol reports the accident occurred around 8:20 in the morning on Route NN 9 miles east of Pickering. A 1982 Peterbilt Dump Truck driven by Stephen Mick of Bedford was westbound and a 2000 Chevy Silverado Pickup driven by Davidson and pulling a trailer was stationary in the westbound lane. Davidson was outside his vehicle when the dump truck struck the trailer, causing it to strike Davidson. The dump truck traveled into the eastbound lane, overcorrected, and overturned, coming to rest on its side facing west on the north side of Route NN. The Silverado came to rest on its wheels on the north side of Route NN. Davidson was pronounced dead at the scene at 9:09 a.m. by Nodaway County Coroner Vince Shelby. A summons against Mick is pending.

Mary Welch Seriously Injured in Car Wreck

A one-car accident last Wednesday morning around 10:19 a.m. seriously injured Mary Welch, a Parnell resident, on Route E about six miles west of Parnell. The Missouri Highway Patrol reports that a 2004 Chevrolet driven by Welch was northbound when she lost control, went off the west side of the road, struck a ditch, went airborne, and came to rest on its wheels after overturning. Welch was taken by the Nodaway County Ambulance to St. Francis Hospital of Maryville and then later lifeflighted to Heartland Hospital of St. Joseph. The car was totaled.

Walk 1440 for August 20th, 2008

by Jeff Blaine
A single tear rolled down her cheek…
What’s in a tear? Water? Salt? Have you considered: a lifetime?
She is 91 & life was recently dealt a difficult blow to her body…a stroke.
Having just learned she can no longer drive…the painful tears of change flow freely…the fear filled tears of a future unknown stream down her cheeks…what is it about tears?
Those tears I have cried too…my 38 years have seen my share of change & uncertainty resulting in tear swelled eyes.
Yet, the tears each of us cry are different from others because our tears are born of the pain, change, joy, or suffering unique to our own life…we are the sole owners of our tears.
Oh, that someone could understand the saltiness of our tears…someone so familiar with us that they know those tears flow from the very center of our being.
Oh, that someone could have the ability to wipe away our tears, wanting to care for us, as they listen to the depths of our heart pouring out the joy, the pain, the fear, & the suffering.
Someone who knows why we cry in the night…our sobs echoing in the silence.
Someone who knows the sorrow from my loss, my hurt, my pain…my trouble.
Someone who can tell me through the mind numbing grief I feel…they truly understand.
If only someone could know & take into account the "why" of our tears…might it stop the flow?
You have taken account of my wanderings; Put my tears in Your bottle
Are they not in Your book? Psalm 56:8
That someone is our God…
Who can possibly know the very depth of each tear but our God?
Who can possibly know our very soul but our God?
Why does our God take an "account of my wanderings"?
Why does our God keep the tears so bitterly spent in His bottle?
Why does our God write in His book the painful days of my life marked with my tears?
Might it be love?
Why would someone care to consider the lifetime in a tear if they didn’t love the one crying?
Why would someone care to track the memories of that lifetime in those tears if they didn’t want to comfort the one crying?
Isn’t it a comfort to know…you don’t cry alone?
There are 1440 minutes in a day…WALK1440 knowing your tears are known

Sheridan News for August 20th, 2008

by Barb Rowe
I was sorry to hear that Margaret Findley was in the hospital last weekend. She is home and doing a little better. Her daughters took turns helping her out while she wasn't feeling well.
Beth West and Kathleen Carroll were visitors of the John Stephenson family. They are from Kansas City and sisters to John. They took J.C. out school clothes shopping for his birthday.

Sheridan Holds Initial Strategic Plan Meeting

Arnie Kreek of the Northwest Missouri Regional Council of Governments led the initial Strategic Plan Meeting for Sheridan with over ten community leaders and guided them through a brainstorming session about the town’s strengths and weaknesses Monday. His main point was that when communities plan, they would be in a better position to deal with changes rather than simply reacting to random events. He said that when towns do a strategic plan, they would be able to filter out unnecessary work that did not fit into the plan.
The first exercise he led the participants in was to develop a mission statement, which he said give an ongoing guide to the city without the limitations of a time frame. "In other words, how do we define our community?" asked Economic Developer Charity Austin, present at the meeting. Tim Brogan said that it was a matter of what the town can be, and Dave Thomas said that a good mission statement would also teach youth lessons, such as about citizenship, for instance.
The group agreed to meet for each of the next four weeks to discuss each of the areas of focus. Participants agreed to focus on physical appearance, parks and recreation, public services, and community development. The first two meetings were set for August 25th and September 8th at Sheridan City Hall at 6:00 p.m.; all Strategic Plan meetings are open to the public. Participants encouraged people who were not present to attend one of the upcoming meetings. Each of the participants will work on a possible mission statement for the town. After each of the four meetings are over, Kreek will meet again with the participants to work on the mission statement for the community and discuss the results of the brainstorming sessions.
Thomas said that it was important for towns to give the youth some structure; he has led hunter educations classes in the area and is starting an Archery in Schools program for the Worth County School this year. Candy Martin pointed to the Roxy Theater as an example of something that can be accomplished when communities work together. "Just because we don’t have thing doesn’t mean we can’t have them," added Austin.
Among some of the cultural aspects of the community, Jeff Blaine said that the town had a cowboy culture, pointing to the success of the annual Mud Run. Austin said that there was interest in restarting the Little Dinner Theater. Brogan said that he was worried that the history of the town was being lost, and Thomas added that most people didn’t even know about the significance of the Grist Mill in the park.
Turning to public services, Butch Thomas, who serves on the Emergency Services Board, said that the target date for starting the Enhanced 911 service for the county was April. Kreek said that another issue to consider was the Hazardous Mitigation Plan that the Regional Council was developing for the area. In local terms, for instance, how does the City of Sheridan react to reduce the threat of disaster, such as a tornado, another ice storm, or a chemical truck turning over? Or, how does the city react to special needs people who are on oxygen in the event of an extended outage?
The next topic was community development; Thomas noted that when he was young, there was a store, a gas station, and a restaurant in Denver; now, "you can’t even buy a can of pop there." In other exercise, Kreek had participants lay out strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to the community. Kreek will then categorize them and they will be brought up at the upcoming meetings. Some aspects are already being addressed; for instance, Thomas and Austin are part of the Sheridan Park Restoration Fund, which is seeking to purchase a Noah’s Ark for the park.
Blaine said that it was important for the mayor and council to back the plans; "or this will all be for nought." Mayor Bud Allee said that it was a matter of figuring out where the money was going to come from. Austin said that previous plans have been effective for the community; for instance, 85% of the goals set forth in the 1999 Strategic Plan for Grant City were accomplished, including the Dollar Store and the Gunstock Factory.

Nursing Home Breaks Even Last Month

The Worth County Nursing Home broke even last month as the number of residents fluctuated from 33 to 37 residents; they are currently at 36 residents. The cost per resident was $112.82, which was $17 over June’s figures. Administrator Charlie Green said that more money would come in from Medicare billing after he got the necessary paperwork. He said that it would take time to iron out the bugs in the budget, but that it gave a good general idea of what should be spent. A lightning strike that knocked out a panel to the generator will cost the facility a $1,000 deductible; the other $2,500 of the replacement cost was insured.
The board approved a resident-council adopted dog policy for the facility; Board President Scott Houk said that it struck a good balance between allowing residents who derived therapeutic benefits from animals to continue to enjoy them and consideration for residents and employees who were allergic to animals.
There was only one bid for the roof; the board, after waiting another month to see if other bids would come in, voted to accept the $4,951 bid from Campbell Construction of Grant City; costs for plywood and sheets are additional.
The tax rate was set for 35 cents.
The board adopted a new mission statement for the facility which states that the center will provide quality care with compassion and understanding the individualities of each of their residents. The statement emphasizes that the center is a home and a place to live and a place where the rights and privileges of the residents would be protected.
Paul Pouliter of the Missouri Healthcare Association and the president of the region addressed the board about the benefits of joining the association; the board had previously begun a trial membership for two months which started in August. He said that some of the main benefits of belonging to the association include having a strong voice in the legislative process, regular trainings for administrators, employees, and board members, a membership in the national association, professional recognition for employees, networking, and regional activities for residents. For instance, the association puts on the Golden Age Games in St. Joseph at Missouri Western State University. Houk said that one of the most important aspects of belonging to the association was the networking aspect; "We’re sitting between 33 and 36 residents, and we’ve got to find ways of generating more income," he said. Green said that he found that another benefit was the ability to put beds up for sale so that the facility could get down to a 50-bed license instead of 60.
Secretary Jozy Moyer reported that she had gotten inquiries for daycare for residents who were being cared for by family members and asked for guidelines for what to charge. She said that one advantage to providing daycare was that it would reduce the shock value to residents when they get sent to the Nursing Home; board member Kaye Havner said that it would provide a good community service. Green said that he had inquired at various homes and that they had ranged from anywhere from $20 per day to $92 for 8-10 hours. Board member Bill Calhoon said that one potential problem was if 8-10 people dropped people off for daycare, meaning that the facility would have to hire extra help to manage the workload. And Havner noted that some people would require watching more than others. The board delegated board member Martha Rush to work with Green and Moyer on a possible policy for elderly daycare.
The board voted to purchase blood testing equipment so that the facility could do blood draws on site rather than have to drive down to Albany to do it. Green said that it would reduce liability for employees who had to transport the samples, allow for more time on work, allow the facility to know results on the spot and take quicker action, and eliminate charges from the hospital for doing the work. Green said that hospitals might charge more than what Part A allows and that in 12 to 18 months, the purchase would pay for itself.
Board President Scott Houk gave a state of the facility address to the board and administrators. He said that while the facility was out of immediate danger, they still had to change in order to generate more revenues. "We can sit on our hands and hope we get 40-45 people, or we can figure out what we can do differently to get more revenues," he said. He said that the board should look into offering assisted care. Although the board had previously considered and rejected such an option, Houk said that they should look at it again. "We’re assuming that we can’t do it," said Houk. "It’s not like we were 30-40 years ago when we could just sit on our hands and take in residents. Now, we are fighting for survival."
Other people present pointed out other variables. Calhoon said that the fact that baby boomers were retiring would provide more residents and more income. Rush said that assisted living was a blanket statement, while visitor Jerry Dignan pointed out that it takes a lot more room to offer assisted living. Houk acknowledged that there were a lot of unknowns but that "until we generate more income, we can’t retain our employees."
Houk and other board members also addressed the question of earmarks. The problem with earmarking money, as noted by Calhoon, is that it means that the facility would have a lack of flexibility on how to spend money. For instance, the facility recently had to spend $1,000 to replace four beds in order to become compliant with the state; "if you need a new bed, you need a new bed," he said. Another example, as noted by board member Wilbur Osborne, was the entryway, which he said needed fixing up.
Board member Boyd Pickering asked about the current freeze on the employee pay raises. "Everything has gone up," he said. Calhoon said that at the time the board made the decision to freeze raises, they promised that they would lift the freeze "if the funds were available." The board went into closed session to discuss personnel issues that were related to the freeze.

New Agronomist for Area

New Extension Agronomist Hired For Area
University of Missouri Extension has hired a new agronomist named Heather Benedict to work the east side of the Extension region. Heather officially started August 4th and is located at the Harrison County office in Bethany.
Heather has a strong background in forages which is well suited to the amount of forage production that occurs in the area. She is a graduate of the University of Missouri with a Masters degree in Agronomy.
The assigned counties for Heather are Mercer, Daviess, Grundy, Livingston, Caldwell, Gentry, Worth and Harrison. Wayne Flanary, other Extension agronomist, is assigned to Nodaway, Atchison, Holt, Andrew, Clinton, Buchanan and DeKalb.
To contact the Harrison County Extension office, please call Heather Benedict, Agronomy Specialist, University of Missouri Extension at 660-425-6434.

Time to Check for Aphids

Soybean Aphids Are At Economic Thresholds in Some Area Fields
It is time to be scouting for soybean aphids in area fields. The populations have reached economic thresholds in area fields in northern Nodaway and Atchison Counties last Friday August 15th. The numbers of soybean aphids varied. Not all fields were at economic thresholds so it is important to scout fields carefully.
Early planted soybeans are in the seed fill stage of growth. This is when the seeds are filling the pod cavity. When soybeans completely fill the pod cavity, then the next step then is for soybeans leaves to yellow to turn to maturity. These stages are progressing quickly so please check your soybean stage of growth when making a decision to treat for aphids.
The economic threshold for soybean aphids is 250 aphids per plant which gives you a 5 to 7 day window to control these insects once you reach this threshold.
Soybean aphids are generally found on the underside of leaves and can also be found on the stem of the soybean. The aphids are tiny insects which are hard to see. You may need a hand lens. The insect prefers the cool conditions we have been experiencing and populations are increasing.
For more information, contact Regional Agronomists with the University of Missouri Extension, Wayne Flanary located in Holt County at 660-446-3724 and Heather Benedict located in Harrison County at 660-425-6434.

Capitol Report for August 20th, 2008

Advancing Agriculture in Missouri
Last week, I spent time at the Missouri State Fair. As I toured the fair grounds and visited the numerous activities, I was reminded of the many advancements in the agricultural industry. While farming has been a way of life for many of us in Missouri, the processes and operations of farming have continued to evolve. Today’s farmers benefit greatly from scientific advancements, agricultural research and the developing plant sciences arena. As a result, we are seeing the markets for agriculture products grow as the developments in the agricultural industry have created greater opportunities and product demand.
In Missouri, we are blessed to have a higher education infrastructure that supports our agricultural industry. Using university research facilities across our great state, Missouri has been a leader in utilizing experimental farming methods. This aggressive research and study of agriculture has resulted in greater integration of scientifically based practices and methods. As a result, our farmers have been able to utilize methods that help increase both the product yield and quality.
Today, our farmers have access to markets that go beyond the produce aisle of the local grocery store. Our farmers now compete in the global economy, and as a result, we are now seeing many farmers begin to diversify their products 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 and growing markets within agriculture diversity are tremendous.
There is no doubt that our agriculture industry has gone through great change and development over the years. I find it exciting to see the innovation and creativity of today’s farmers as they continue to navigate an ever changing and evolving industry. As we look towards the future and the next generation of farmers, it is critical that we continue to support the research and development necessary to ensure Missouri continues to be a leader in agriculture. Through innovation, diversification, and proper planning, I believe our agricultural industry will remain strong and productive well into the 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 429, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.

Letter to the Editor -- Cheap Oil will not return.

Sam Graves and the Republican Party continue to hammer away on their demands to drill for oil off shore and in the Alaskan National Wildlife Reserve, ANWR. The issue is being used to convince Americans that plentiful oil supplies are available, and we can continue our complacency regarding the need to conserve energy, and to find new sources of fuel. Sam speaks with determination on the subject, hoping to dupe American voters into believing that if we vote Republican, our energy worries will soon be over. Nothing is further from the truth!
We have learned that Sam Graves has accepted $61,583 from the oil industry, and supported the oil industry in 91% of selected votes. Sam suggests that gas prices will return to previous levels as soon as drilling in the ANWR and off shore is approved. It is general knowledge that any oil obtained by that route would not be available to consumers for up to 10 years!
Scientists tell us the total world-wide supply of oil was 2 trillion barrels before humans started using it. Since mid-nineteenth century the world has consumed nearly 1 trillion barrels of oil. The half that remains is the hardest to get, lowest quality oil. The United States passed its peak oil production, about 11 million barrels a day, in 1970, and has dropped steadily since then. In 2004 it ran just above 5 million barrels a day. Yet we consume roughly 20 million barrels of oil a day. Cheap oil prices will not return!

Shirley Yurkonis
Savannah, MO

Golf League Results for August 20th, 2008

Golf League, week 4 results
Stak it n’Wak it- Guy Fletchall, BJ Stephenson, Jon Claypool
Parless- Catherine Runde, Alan Supinger, Sharon Supinger
Fubar- Gary Owens, Bert Owens, Megan Stephenson
DMD- Dennis Downing, Dave Brown, and Meggan Brown

Fubar (1 pt) vs Parless (3 pts)
Stak It (3 pts ) vs DMD (1pt)

Team standings
1st. Parless 11 pts.
2nd DMD 7.5 pts
3rd Stak it & Wak it 7 pts
Fubar 6.5 pts

Men’s low score scratch Dennis Downing 36
Men’s low score with handicap BJ Stephenson 28
Women’s low score scratch Bert Owens 40
Women’s low score with handicap Bert Owens 34
Team low score scratch Stack It & Wak It –Guy-37, BJ 38, Jon 39=114. With handicap 95

Golf League, week 4 results
Stak it n’Wak it- Guy Fletchall, BJ Stephenson, Jon Claypool
Parless- Catherine Runde, Alan Supinger, Sharon Supinger
Fubar- Gary Owens, Bert Owens, Megan Stephenson
DMD- Dennis Downing, Dave Brown, and Meggan Brown

DMD (2 pts )vs FUBAR (2pts )
Parless vs Stak It and Wak It (4pts)

1st. Parless 11
2nd Stak It & Wak It 11
3rd DMD 9.5
4th FUBAR 8.5

Men’s low score Scratch Guy Fletchall 37
Men’s low score Handicap BJ Stephenson 30
Women’s low score Scratch Bert 39
Women’s low score Handicap Sharon Supinger 33
Team Low score scratch Stak it & Wak it –Guy 37, BJ 38, Jon 42 = 117. With handicap 98

Obituary: Andrew Ettleman 1918-2008

Andrew Ettleman, age 89 years, of Jefferson City, died Saturday, July 19th, 2008 at the Autumn Meadows Nursing Center in Linn, MO.
Andrew was born November 19th, 1918 in Downs, IA, the son of John A. & Lucy E. Briley Ettleman, both deceased. He was married on August 14th, 1943 to Mildred Snow, who survives of the home.
Andrew lived in Northwest Missouri and Southwest Iowa most of his life, retiring to Ivy Bend at the Lake of the Ozarks in 1986. Andrew was a member of the 128th Field Artillery Unit stationed in Albany, which was one of the first units mobilized for active duty in November, 1940.
Andrew and Robert L. (Bud) Bentley, his lifelong friend, went into partnership together in 1954 and called themselves "The Country Boys." They owned and operated several lumber companies, concrete plants, and a grain elevator, specializing in the manufacturing of portable farm buildings and also constructing over 200 custom residential houses in Southwest Iowa and Northwest Missouri.
Andrew donated countless hours and resources to better each community he lived in. Notable was a teen center he built in Bedford called "The Purple Palace." He was a member of the Disabled American Veterans and numerous civic organizations throughout his lifetime.
Andrew loved to read, watch TV, go to movies, and, along with his wife Mildred, collected antique firearms and Indian relics. When asked what the most important thing in life was, he said, "That’s simple -- love." Andrew showed his love for country, family, friends, and community on a daily basis throughout his life.
He will be sadly missed but greatly loved and remembered by his wife, Mildred; one son, R. Kelly Ettleman of Palm Springs, CA; two daughters, Mary Gentry of Shreveport, LA, and Donna Jones and her husband Mick of Jefferson City; three grandchildren, Shane Jones of Jefferson City and Hollie and Andrew Gentry of Shreveport, LA; three great-grandchildren, Austin, Zachary, and Cooper Jones of Jefferson City. Andrew was preceded in death by two sons, Rogers Lynn Ettleman and Rodney Lewis Ettleman and one grandson, Andrew Joshua Jones.
Funeral services were conducted at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 23rd, 2008 in the Freeman Chapel, the Reverend David Avery officiating. Graveside services with military honors were conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 24th, 2008 at the Grandview Cemetery in Albany. Visitation was from 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Wednesday. Those desiring can make memorial contributions to the Rivercity Habitat for Humanity in Jefferson City.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Freeman Mortuary. Anyone wishing to send a card may write to Mildred Ettleman, Autumn Meadows #413, Linn, MO, 65051.

Show-Me State of Mind for August 20th, 2008

Why Does Graves Oppose Wind Energy?
Consumers are suffering under high gas and diesel prices, and the other cost increases that they cause. We need to provide relief for consumers now by creating a balanced energy policy.
First, we must create more of our own energy domestically. That's why I have called for immediately increasing drilling in Alaska and in our coastal waters, where oil companies already have millions of acres of leased land which they refuse to explore.
But, we can't forget about another form of renewable energy that is growing right here in Northwest Missouri: wind power. The wind turbines in Rock Port and King City are already producing electricity that will power thousands of homes and decrease our dependence on foreign fuels.
Wind farms are great for our country, as well as our communities. They create jobs and spur economic development in smaller cities and towns while generating local revenue. For example, King City's school district expects to receive more than $200,000 per year in additional funding as a direct result of the wind turbines.
Even though they can do so much for Missouri, our wind farms are at risk. In 135 days, the Production Tax Credit for renewable energy will expire. Experts say this will put the renewable energy industry into a tailspin, costing the U.S. 112,000 jobs and $19 billion in investment.
The partisan stalemate in Congress over renewing the tax credits is already making it more difficult for wind project developers to line up financing. Farmers and small business owners in the District tell me at least one major wind farm developer has now placed its entire project on hold awaiting the renewal of the credits. Of course, this is exactly what Exxon and Big Oil want to see. They don't want anyone to cut into their record profits or billions in tax giveaways.
Although he claims to support wind energy, Congressman Sam Graves has voted against the Production Tax Credit five times! Why? Well, maybe it has something to do with the fact that he has received more than $63,000 from the oil and gas industry since 2000. We need a member of Congress who will stand with our rural communities who are producing energy here at home, instead of with Exxon and Big Oil.
Kay Barnes is a candidate for U.S. representative for Missouri's 6th Congressional District

129th to be Honored August 24th

The Missouri Army National Guardsmen of Battery A and Headquarters Battalion, 1-129th Field Artillery, will be honored at a Freedom Salute ceremony honoring their contributions to Operation Enduring Freedom.
About 20 Citizen-Soldiers from units in Albany and Maryville will take part in the ceremony at Albany High School at 9 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 24. The public is encouraged to attend and show their support.
These troops were mobilized to support Operation Enduring Freedom from Oct. 12, 2006 through March 15, 2008. While stationed in Kabul, Afghanistan, the Soldiers conducted security force missions including personnel security detail and force protection. The unit provided multiple mobile convoys for each shift and performed a variety of strategic missions outside the compound.
The Soldiers served alongside over 160 Missouri Guardsmen from across the battalion. Capt. Timothy Strohman, of Greenwood, and 1st Sgt. Charles Gardener, of Brookfield, commanded the company during the deployment.
For more information about this event, please contact Staff Sgt. Jonathan Clark at 660-726-5815.

Capitol Report for August 13th, 2008

The Missouri State Fair
Last week marked the beginning of the 106th Missouri State Fair. For the past century, the Missouri State Fair has served as a gathering point to showcase the hard work and efforts of Missouri’s farmers and their children. This grand event is where Missouri’s agricultural leaders come together to see the best of the "Show-Me State."
Our great state has prospered from the hard work and economic successes created by our agricultural industry. From traditional ranchers and row crop farmers to the emerging plant sciences and value added farming producers, Missouri farmers have consistently embraced innovation and fueled our economy. This commitment to innovation, hard work and being a leader in technological adoptions has ensured a strong foundation for the economic health of our communities.
The State Fair also plays a critical role of encouraging and rewarding young farmers who are just beginning to experience the challenges and rewards of the agricultural industry. Thousands of young farmers compete every year as they showcase their skills and love for farming. Hopefully, these young farmers who have grown giant pumpkins or who are showing livestock will follow their passion to farm on a farm of their own.
Organizations such as Farm Bureau, Future Farmers of America, and 4-H have taken on essential roles in promoting the agricultural industry, its opportunities, and the quality of life afforded to those growing up in rural Missouri. As parents and mentors, we need to work to instill in young people the importance of the agricultural industry and the many benefits that we as society are provided by it. And as a legislature, we need to continue cultivating, promoting, and fostering agricultural opportunities in Missouri while working to reduce excessive government intrusion.
Being an active and productive member of the agricultural industry is more than just making a living; it is a way of life. Events such as the State Fair and our local county fairs are critical in rewarding the hard efforts of our young farmers and inspiring them to continue working the farm into the next generation. I hope everyone has an opportunity to visit the Missouri State Fair and see tomorrow’s agricultural leaders in action as they showcase the best Missouri has to offer.
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 429, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.

Graves: Release of CRP Land Critical

U.S. Congressman Sam Graves called the release of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) land for haying in Presidential Disaster areas critical to farmers and ranchers. Andrew, Atchison, Buchanan, DeKalb, Gentry, Harrison, Holt, Nodaway, Schuyler, and Worth counties are now eligible to release certain CRP lands.
CRP participants must write their county Farm Service Agency (FSA) office, obtain a modified conservation plan and receive county office approval before beginning to hay.
"The release of CRP lands is critical to our farmers and ranchers who have been affected by the flooding," Graves said. "While I am disappointed with the court's decision to disregard federal agriculture policy and change the Critical Feed Use Program, I am happy to see that those in areas affected by flooding will get relief."
On July 8th, 2008 the National Wildlife Refuge sued the USDA to stop the Critical Feed Use program. As a result of the lawsuit, applicants for the Critical Feed Use initiative (CFU) who had applied and been approved for participation on or before entry of the initial temporary restraining order (TRO) on July 8, 2008, are grandfathered and may participate in the CFU as the program was announced. Those who have applied but have not been approved before July 8, 2008 but have been or will be approved for participation will be permitted to participate but must end haying activity by September 30 and grazing activity by October 15.
Graves is a co-sponsor of H.R. 6533 which reinstates the CFU program to its original intent and makes more than 24 million acres of CRP land eligible to be released for haying and grazing.
"Elected officials, not the courts should be making our agricultural policy," Graves said. "These lands were made eligible, in a responsible way, to help farmers deal with the rising price of feed. I will continue to fight for policies that help our farmers and ranchers."
H.R. 6533 has been referred to the House Committee on Agriculture.

Straight Talk with Sam Graves for August 13th, 2008

Standing up for Veterans
This country is great and we enjoy the freedoms that we have today because of the sacrifices of our veterans. All of our veterans have given completely to the cause of freedom, and I am committed to standing up for our veterans in Congress.
Since I came to Congress in 2001, funding for veterans programs has increased by over 95%. I have voted to enhance health care benefits for reservists deployed to active duty and increase funding for military family housing. Last year, Congress passed and I voted for nearly $3 billion for mental health care. I strongly believe that we have a commitment to our veterans and I intend to keep it.
Keeping our promises to our veterans means making sure they have the best available care. I co-sponsored a bi-partisan bill with Ike Skelton, called the Wounded Warriors Act that addressed the care received by our veterans. The legislation also makes comprehensive improvements to medical care, and the administrative processes associated with American troops wounded or injured in combat.
One of the most important things we can do is to help our veterans transition from protecting our freedoms to contributing to our economy. This year I voted for a 21st Century GI Bill to give veterans access to a four year college education. The GI Bill of the World War II era sparked economic growth and expansion, and by giving our veterans the education and support they need, we increase their opportunities as well as build our economy.
I will continue to stand up for our veterans.

Show-Me State of Mind for August 13th, 2008

Our Congressman Needs to Take Gas Prices Seriously
Americans are suffering under high gas prices. But instead of developing a realistic and commonsense energy policy, Washington has spent the last eight years lining the pockets of oil company executives.
Our country needs a real energy policy - a balanced policy that will wean us from our addiction to foreign oil and create jobs right here in Missouri. I believe we should increase domestic exploration of oil, including domestic drilling. I think we should start with the 68 million acres of federal lands that have been leased to oil companies but not used. Between 1999 and 2007, the number of drilling permits issued for development of public lands increased by more than 361 percent. The oil companies need to explore these lands, and they need to do it now.
The real problem is that Washington has relied on oil companies like Exxon to develop its energy strategy, and oil companies profit when prices are high. Less than two weeks ago, Exxon announced the highest quarterly profit of any U.S. company...ever! Just before breaking the news, Exxon cut another check - this one for $1,000 - to Congressman Sam Graves' campaign war chest. Let's not forget that Graves has received more than $63,000 from oil and gas companies since 2000.
You think that might be why he has consistently voted for more tax breaks for oil companies? And against incentives for renewable energy, such as the Production Tax Credit, that would create jobs here in Northwest Missouri?Big Oil has made big bucks with the help of buddies like Sam Graves. And you're paying for it at the pump.
Sam Graves' energy policy is to take orders from Exxon and the oil companies. And it's a policy that's worked great - for them. But what about us?
Kay Barnes is a candidate for U.S. representative for Missouri's 6th Congressional District

WCCC News for August 13th, 2008

We started the week off with our August birthday party. The ladies from the Grant City Methodist Church hosted
the party and brought us all some delicious melons to eat. Happy August Birthdays to Verna Coker, Coyla Jackson, Marian Tieman, Sharon Parman, Lavetta(Pete)Lassen and Cheryl Allee.
Becky and friends led Bible stories Monday evening. Tuesday the David Peterson's family from the Sheridan Christian Church had church. Marynell Richards and Sandra Sparks from Grant City Methodist Church visited Thursday morning. We enjoyed singing along with Alan Jackson. In the afternoon we sat outside and visited for awhile, then enjoyed ice cream cones. Friday was a busy and exciting day. Etha Pearl, Verna, Orel, Alvin, Noah, Virginia and Ruth went up to the Senior Center for lunch. The Laplanders were here in the afternoon.
Friday evening, Alvin, Merle, Orel, Verna, Donna, Etha Pearl, Jerry, Pete, Lois and Dorothy went to the rodeo in Allendale. Thanks to Lisa, Brenda, Kim, Buddy and Ruth for the extra help. It was a beautiful evening to be out. We had good food and a great time. Shirley Pierce was here for Sunday school and the Sheridan Christian Church brought us church Sunday afternoon.
All of us are looking forward to our Annual Labor Day Picnic on Thursday, August 28th. If our families and friends are planning on attending we would sure like to know, please RSVP by August 22nd.

Soybean Aphids in Area Fields

Soybean Aphids in Area Fields
Most all soybean fields in Northwest Missouri have soybean aphid populations. The economic threshold is 250 aphids per plant and this includes a window for treatment. This means that one should not treat when there are less than 250 aphids per plant. The threshold has a treatment time window included which allows you plenty of time to control the pest before they reach the economic injury level.
Check soybean fields now as the cooler temperatures are ideal for rapid increase aphid populations. Aphids have many generations per year and prefer the cooler temperatures we are receiving. Aphid populations can double in less than a week when temperatures are ideal.
My colleague to the north, Kyle Jensen, ISU Extension Field Agronomist located in Southwest Iowa, reported a border effect and advises growers to walk in at least 100 feet from the edge.
When we scout for this insect, carefully look under leaves and on stems of the soybean plants. I like to pull a plant so I can see the aphids easily and get my eyes acclimated to looking at this pest. This in turn will help you as you examine other plants.
As far as insecticide control, many products work equally. If you sprayed early season, you may have knocked out the beneficial insects and some products have repellency characteristics which keep the beneficial insects from moving back into the field. In these situations, be sure to watch these fields as beneficial insects generally keep aphid populations in check in our area. You may find populations increase dramatically in these early treated fields.
For more information contact Wayne Flanary, University of Missouri Extension Agronomy Specialist at 660-446-3724 or Heather Benedict, Agronomy Specialist at 660-425-6434 located in the Harrison County Extension office at Bethany.

FSA Disaster Loans for Worth County

Mr. Tim Kelly, State Executive Director, Farm Service Agency, announced effective July 18th, 2008 that 29 counties including Worth, Nodaway, and Gentry Counties will have FSA Disaster Loans available due to severe storms and flooding which occurred from June 1st through July 18th, 2008.
Applications for assistance will be accepted at the county offices of the Farm Service Agency for physical and production losses caused by this disaster. Applications will be accepted through March 18th, 2009.
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, livestock, or make payments on real estate or chattel debts. Generally, loans for production losses cannot be approved until crops 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 actual credit needed from another source. All loan programs of the Farm Service Agency are conducted on a non-discriminatory basis.

Recollections of a Farm Woman for August 13th, 2008

Horse high and bull tight, that used to be a saying for an extra good fence. We had some bulls once, they were normally gentile, but could they ever write a fence down. They might have stood taller than a horse, but we didn’t have a horse at the time to compare them to.
Our fencing skills have been put to the test since the goats have come to live here. The first fence was a barbed wire, then a woven wire on top of than, then followed by a couple more strands of barbed wire. An electric fence was also added so they wouldn’t poke their heads through the woven wire and get their heads caught.
Recently, I have been greeted on several occasions by a yard-full of goats when I arrived home. A check of the fence over the hill from the pond and out of sight from view, was trees over the fence from the ice and wind. They had been venturing through and eating the underbrush on the other side.
They didn’t appreciate our efforts to fix the fence. We had to keep shooing them away. Six barbs wouldn’t hold them when we thought we were finished, an electric fence had to be added because they thought they belonged to the other side. But I guess what keeps them in will also, with Lenny’s help, keep the varmints out.

Lois Constant has Special Day

By Mickey Floyd
Lois Constant had a bad fall at her home last month. The first responders evaluated her injuries and had her transported via ambulance to St. Francis Hospital in Maryville. Doctors in the ER had X-Rays taken and determined, among other bruises and scrapes, a fractured hip. Surgery was needed to repair the damage and a hospital stay with daily physical therapy to follow. An army of well-trained dedicated professionals have teamed together to get Lois back to her original self. And although the hip is mending nicely, something seemed to be missing from her recovery treatment. It was decided it was time to bring out the big runs. When all else fails, get a lady who is down at the beauty shop. Every woman knows that a beautician can fix her up better and faster than a doctor. But getting Lois to the beauty shop would not be an easy thing.
Lori Jo Groom, owner of Main Street Cuts in Sheridan paid a surprise visit to Room 17 last Saturday afternoon, and armed with only her experience, comb, brush, hair dryer, and a small bag of magic potions, prepared to battle the humdrum and boredom that had beset Lois. A short time later, the transformation was complete, and behold, a new and improved model Lois. A nurse was overheard to say, "if Lois looked any better, they would have to send her home, and if she looked any younger, they would have to move her to pediatrics."
Lois wishes to convey thanks to Lori Jo and the staff at St. Francis Hospital for making Saturday afternoon a very special time.

Obituary: Mary Marie McCollum

Mary Marie was born to Charley and Anna Maye on a farm north and east of Sheridan. She had a brother, Johnny Jr., who died in infancy. They moved to a farm north and west of Parnell, where she started school (Bunker Hill). Denzil was born in Parnell, where he started first grade. They then moved in with Grandmother in Sheridan. Mary Marie attended school until her sophomore year and then quit due to medical problems. She was diagnosed with epilepsy. She stayed at home and like to do embroidery, and did a beautiful job. She also made bead jewelry and worked in the garden. In 1961, Mother and Father could no longer take care of her and she was placed in the State Hospital in St. Joseph. She was then placed in group homes and finally was placed in the Northview Manor in the 1980’s, where she finally came to rest in peace. She is survived by her brother Denzil, his wife Delores, nieces and nephews Cindy, Sandy, Michele, Charles (Denise), Larry, Lewis, Steven (Kari), and numerous great-nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were 2:30 p.m. Saturday, August 2nd, 2008 at the Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City. Pastor Vallory Williams officiated. Interment was in the Isadora Cemetery near Grant City.

Rural Water District Working on Disaster Documentation

Ed Ackley reported that the Rural Water District was working on disaster documentation for FEMA in the event that the county is declared a disaster area for the flooding that occurred late last month. Currently, the situation is under review by Governor Blunt, who typically takes two weeks to decide on disaster declarations. Ackley said that there were about 4-5 locations damaged from the recent flooding and that he had taken pictures of the washouts.
New Dominion Farms had unusually high usage for their water; Ackley said that he would check and see if there was a leak at their place. There was also a leak reported on one of Kevin Harding’s farms.
The board voted to advertise for part-time help for the water district. The position will pay $10 per hour for 20 hours minimum; the job would involve maintenance of the rural water system.
The district has $6,878 left over from last year’s disaster declaration, and $2,113 from the ice storm. Ackley said that all of the major work from the flooding last year was done.
The board voted to send Shannon Burns and Ackley down to the Lake of the Ozarks for training. The board also voted to raise Ackley’s mileage compensation to 52 cents per mile from 40 cents, effective immediately.
Ackley will be working on a project to GPS the 520 Rural Water customers at a cost of around $8,000 to the district. The project will take between 4-6 weeks. Peggy Drake said she was doing a map of the customers and that her next task was to locate dead lines so that they could be mapped. One of the expenses for the district will be a new computer system that will handle the new GPS data, which will allow the district to find leaks better than they did before. The district will use the left-over grant money to buy the new computer system.

Stutesman Family Reunion

On Sunday, July 27th, the annual Stutesman family reunion was held in Sheridan, Missouri. Those attending were Donna Kay (Stutesman) Auffert, Brandon Auffert, & Norbert & Joan (Stutesman) Schmitz, all of Parnell; Mary Auffert & Tabitha, Pat & Mary Frances Schmitz, and grandsons, Wiley & Brody Conley, all of Maryville; Matt & Melissa Strueby of Guthrie Center, Iowa; Susan Bagby & Molly of Corning, Iowa; Steve & Nancy Archer & Catherine & Brad, all of Conception Jct.; Mike & Paulette Schmitz & Colin of Sparta, Illinois; Richard & Julie Hunter & Joe of Harrisonville; & Don & Peggy Lantz of Harlan, Iowa.

Worth County R-III School Registration

HIGH SCHOOL
August 11th – Senior Registration 9am- 3pm
August 12th – Junior Registration 9am- 3pm
August 13th – Sophomore Registration 9am- 3pm
August 14th – Freshman Registration 9am-3pm

Any new students to the high school are encouraged to register on registration day for their respective class. Seventh grade students will receive schedules at orientation.

During the registration for grades 9-12, students will need to pick schedules, complete and update personal information, check classes, make corrections, and receive lockers.

Families with children in more than one grade may choose the best time for their convenience.

If you are out of town during this period, please stop by the counselor’s or high school office the following Monday or Tuesday.

ELEMENTARY

Only those elementary students that are new to the district will need to register. This can be done anytime after August 11th between the hours of 9am and 3pm.

Other Important Dates

August 18th - Elementary Open House 6pm -7pm
August 18th - 7th Grade Orientation 7pm
August 20th - First Day of School for all Students 8:15am-1:30pm
August 25th - Picture Day

In-Field Alfalfa Meetings Planned for Nodaway County

In-field Alfalfa Meetings Planned for
Nodaway County
Two Extension in-field alfalfa meetings will be held Tuesday, August 12 with alfalfa grower, Ronnie Stoll west of Stanberry 2 miles on Highway 136 and the second meeting will be held Friday, August 15 with alfalfa grower Kevin Stiens, 3 ½ miles north of Hwy. 136 on WW northeast of Maryville. Both meetings will start at 8:30 AM.
The Tuesday meeting will focus on the custom rates for alfalfa operations, budgets and markets. These topics will be handled by Randa Doty, Ag Business Specialists, located in the Maryville office. Wayne Flanary, Extension Agronomist, will discuss establishment and maintaining alfalfa productivity.
The Friday meeting will change focus to the livestock use and feeding of alfalfa during high grain prices. Amie Schleicher, Extension Livestock Specialist located at Rock Port will handle this topic. Also, alfalfa pests, reasons for alfalfa stand failure will be handled by Wayne Flanary, Extension Agronomist.
Both meetings will be held in alfalfa fields for hands-on learning. There will be plenty of time for questions and answers.
For more information, contact Wayne Flanary, Regional Agronomist, University of Missouri Extension at 660-446-3724.