Thursday, May 30, 2013

George Brett Becomes New Hitting Coach for Royals

The Royals have brought in George Brett as the new hitting coach for the team along with Pedro Grifol. They replace Jack Maloof and Andre David, who were reassigned to minor league duties within the organization.

Brett brings instant credibility given that he is in the Hall of Fame. He knew when to light a fire under people and when to lighten the mood. When Brett tells the players something, they will be much more likely to listen because he carries with him credibility of having played successfully for almost 20 years for one team.

The move will likely serve as a wake-up call for the players. They now know that they are being evaluated and that it is now time for them to become more focused and perform on the field. Anytime there is a mid-season shakeup of this nature, that is the goal.

There is the possibility that the Royals are grooming Brett to succeed Ned Yost. Yost himself came on as a "consultant" before he was hired as the full time manager. This is the last year of Yost's contract. Let Brett get to know the team for a year since they are not going anywhere and then turn the reigns over to him is a possible plan if the team continues to flounder.

The fact of the matter is that some sort of change had to be made. Yost himself set the standard for the season when he said on the record that his hitters were capable of hitting for more power. However, the team actually is hitting for less power this year and hitting fewer home runs. The firing of Maloof and David was a foregone conclusion after the former publicly predicted that the team would finish last in home runs this year in the league. That was a public admission that he was out of answers.

We have to give credit where it is due. Owner David Glass has opened his purse strings to resign Butler and Gordon this year and has put a lot more into the development of his minor league players after years of having a reputation of being a tight-fisted owner. General Manager Dayton Moore has his weaknesses as well -- none of his top draft picks has met the team's expectations. But the fact of the matter is that this season cannot be pinned on him either. Moore went out and got quality starting pitching this year. He stepped in and acted when things were not working out as expected; the replacement of the hitting coaches was a good move. Something had to be done.

The hope is that not only will George Brett help out with the hitting, he will help out with the clubhouse chemistry as well. He was the ultimate clubhouse chemistry person as well as a great player, creating an environment where everyone could succeed. But while the owner is the one who sets the budget, the general manager gets the players, and the coaches work with the players on the mechanics of the game, it is the manager's responsibility to do four things -- write the lineup cards, change pitchers, make substitutions, and maintain a positive environment for the players to perform in. The ultimate responsibility for that still lies with Yost. We don't want him to scream and yell like he seemed to imply the other night; we want him to bring discipline. If someone celebrates when it is not appropriate or there are personality conflicts within the clubhouse, then the manager is responsible for getting it stopped. There is a big difference.

Ned Yost is Toast

For the first time since the 1980's, people were actually feeling better about the Royals than they were the Chiefs. The Royals had totally revamped their pitching staff and were supposed to finally start to make strides towards respectability and have a .500 season this year. But in recent weeks, after a promising start, it has all broken down. There have been recent seasons in which the Royals have teased fans with a fast start, only to go down the toilet once other teams adjusted. But this was supposed to be different -- the pitching was finally there, the hitting was supposed to come around, and the team was supposed to be able to hit for more power.

But now, it has all turned into a fundamental breakdown of discipline. For all his shortcomings, this one cannot be blamed on GM Dayton Moore. He did his part this year, bringing in the pitching needed to turn the Royals into a contender. The responsibility lies with the manager, Ned Yost. The hitting has been a liability all year. The pages of Lee Judge's "Judging the Royals" have become a broken record -- not enough hitting, fundamental lack of plate discipline, and the inability to get the big hit when it matters. But the breakdown of team discipline cumulated last night in pitcher Luis Mendoza's celebration after he got a hit to the wall against the Cardinals. What could have turned into extra bases and a big inning instead turned into a single and one run.

Excuse me, but what does a team that has lost seven straight and 19 out of their last 23 have to celebrate about? This is similar to the times the Chiefs were showboating and celebrating their way to a 2-14 season last year, one of the worst in franchise history. If it had been a World Series win, or a Division Title, or even a winning season, that would have been something appropriate to celebrate about. It would even be appropriate to celebrate a walkoff win. Yet we see Mendoza showboating and celebrating over a single hit.

It's like the immortal Len Dawson says -- let the scoreboard do the talking for you. The long-time color commentator for the Chiefs knows a thing or two about winning; he was part of their winning Super Bowl team. What Mendoza did is not appropriate in Little League or T Ball, let alone the big leagues. Yet it is a perfect symbol of the kind of breakdown in team discipline that Ned Yost has allowed to fester this year.

It's not always a matter of wins or losses; it's how you win or lose that matters. Two nights ago, Yost got testy and defensive when asked questions about his team's performance. He sounds for all the world like a man who is out of answers for this team. He can say all he wants that he doesn't listen to speculation about his future in Kansas City. But the fact of the matter is that management listens to fan discontent much more than they would care to admit. That is why managers and coaches frequently do not last very long in professional sports. That is why the Yost Watch is officially in high gear.

Last night, he said:
“Once we start to swing the bat,” he said, “that’s where you’ll start to see everybody start to relax. Now, you start to put a win streak together. It all comes back to where it should be.” 

But the problem is bigger than a matter of a team being in a slump. The team is showing a lack of plate discipline, swinging at pitches they should be taking and taking pitches they should be swinging at. The hitting is so bad that the Royals were only able to win one game out of three at tailender Houston, one of the few teams having a worse year than the Royals.

And the lack of discipline is not limited to the players. The coaches are sending different messages to the public. On the one hand, Ned Yost said that his team was capable of hitting for more power when he fired Kevin Seitzer as hitting coach last year. Now, his own hitting coach, Jack Maloof, predicted that the team would finish last in home runs this year.

The heat on Yost has been building over the last year, given that he has fired three of his coaches. This is a clear sign that management has been leaning on him to make changes. But now that Yost has his own people in charge, he is running short of options. This year, he set his own standards for the team by saying that his players were capable of hitting for more power. However, his coaches and his players have not lived up to his own standards that he set. It's not just a matter of coming out of a slump. It is a matter of the manager bringing discipline to an organization that has too long lacked it.

Read more here: http://www.kansascity.com/2013/05/29/4262986/royals-yost-says-he-doesnt-listen.html#storylink=cpy

Schulte Sisters Make Highest Honor Roll

Jacqueline and Michelle Schulte of Ravenwood made the Trustees List at Southwest Baptist. This is the highest honor roll at the university. Honor roll students must carry at least 12 hours of college work and earn at least a 3.00 GPA with no grade below a C. To make the Trustees List, students must make at least a 3.85 GPA. Jacqueline and Michelle are the daughters of Ben and Tina Schulte of Ravenwood.

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Sunsmart Technologies Seeks to Bring Solar to NW Missouri

Sunsmart Technologies, a startup solar company based in Phoenix, recently expanded its operations into Kansas City, where they have put some solar panels on some roofs there. Now, they are seeking to expand into Northwest Missouri. The business moves make perfect sense seeking that Missouri is seeking to be 15% renewable by 2021. That was one of the reasons that they chose Missouri over Hawaii when deciding where to open a second office. Another consideration was the fact that KCP&L pays up to a 50% rebate to customers who put solar panels on their homes under their Custom Rebate Program. All projects by KCP&L customers must be pre-approved before work begins; customers with projects that have already started or completed are not eligible for these benefits. Approval is not guaranteed; all such projects must have a societal benefit that exceeds the cost as judged by KCP&L according to KCP&L’s website. Energy Saving measures that are part of the Standard Rebate Program are ineligible for the Custom Rebate Program.

Sunsmart was recently featured in Northland, a magazine that does features on Kansas City area businesses. They employ around 20 people and are headquartered in Gladstone, MO. They provide full service installations of photovoltaic systems to commercial and residential customers. They are located at 701 NE 76th Street in Gladstone, MO; their phone number is (816) 298-7619.

There are other benefits available as well. The USDA pays up to 25% of installation costs for solar for farms and ranches in rural areas. The federal government currently provides a 30% tax credit for solar installation costs. And utility companies are required by law in Missouri to pay $2 per watt for solar electricity installed by customers.

With both federal and state incentives for solar energy, it has created a highly competitive business environment for solar and other alternative energy companies as it provides a major growth industry. And with gas prices rising back to $4 per gallon recently, it will create even more incentive as existing firms may look to get into solar and wind.

Sunsmart is just one of many firms seeking a share of the emerging market of solar. The site Angie’s List, a site where customers can review businesses, lists 59 solar panel installers in the Kansas City area alone. The ones that establish themselves will be the ones who prove themselves knowledgeable about government programs, are able to provide quality service, and who are able to stand behind their work after the job is completed.

The Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit allows people to take up to 30% of their tax credit for solar water heaters, photovoltaics, and other solar electric technologies placed in service after 2008 with no maximum. Solar water heating property must be certified by SRCC (a solar rating corporation) or a comparable entity endorsed by Missouri. At least half the energy used to heat the dwelling’s water must be from solar. The credit expires on December 31st, 2016.

The USDA provides grants and loans for rural agricultural producers. The following is information from the USDA website. The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) provides financial assistance to agricultural producers and rural small businesses in rural America to purchase, install, and construct renewable energy systems; make energy efficiency improvements to non-residential buildings and facilities; use renewable technologies that reduce energy consumption; and participate in energy audits, renewable energy development assistance, and feasibility studies.

The REAP Renewable Energy System Grant and Loan Guarantee provides financial assistance to agriculture producers and rural small business for the specific purpose of purchasing, installing and constructing renewable energy systems.  This type of assistance may require that a business level feasibility study be completed by an independent qualified consultant as part of the application.

USDA grants can cover up to 25% of the cost of the project. USDA loans and grants combined can cover up to 75% of the cost of projects. This program is competitive, meaning that not everyone will be approved.
The Better Business Bureau advises prospective customers to do their homework before choosing a solar installer like they would any other major contractor. The BBB advises customers to determine if solar energy is right for you, consider all the costs associated with solar energy, stay informed about state and federal incentive programs, be cautious of installers that promise no out of pocket costs prior to reviewing your specific situation, be leery if an installer suggests obtaining credit for the full amount of the system, make sure your roof is in good condition to sustain a solar panel system, and understand how solar energy works. The BBB says that if one’s electric bill is less than $100 per month, there are usually other ways of saving energy that cost less.

United Electric customers can get a low-cost energy audit to help them determine how to meet their energy needs. According to their website, United Electric Cooperative will perform home energy audits for members and recommend weatherization improvements. The Cooperative will charge $100 for the audit, with the full amount refundable if the member makes recommended improvements within 6 months of the audit. United Electric Cooperative will also match up to 50% of the cost for improvements, up to a maximum of $500. Each member who schedules an audit will receive a free energy efficiency kit that includes a water heater wrap, hot water pipe wrap, CFLs, insulation kits for electrical outlets and switches, low flow shower head, caulk and weather stripping. Members can contact their Member Services Department for more information on the home energy audits.

Sunday, May 26, 2013

Obituary -- Junetta Barrett 1919-2013

Junetta Barrett, age 93 years and 6 months, passed away May 18, 2013 in Roswell, Georgia at the home of her daughter. Junetta was born November 20, 1919 near Hatfield, the daughter of Raymond and Florence Barnhouse. She attended Northwest Missouri State College and graduated in 1941, receiving a BS degree. Upon graduation, she taught high school in Van Wert, Leroy, and College Springs. She later worked at Trinity Lutheran Hospital in Kansas City. She married Elmer Mumford of Maryville. A daughter, Alicia, was born to the couple in 1944. He was killed in the Burma theater as a pilot in the Army Air Corp flying "the Hump."

In 1947, Junetta moved to Yuma, AZ where she was employed as nutrition director in the Yuma City Schools. She met and married Howard Barrett of Yuma and a daughter, Julie Ann, was born to this marriage. She continued her position in the Yuma City Schools until she moved to Phoenix to become the State Director of School Nutrition. She retired from that position in 1981.

She lived in Grant City for a number of years after her retirement from Arizona and was active in the community and the Grant City Christian Church.

Junetta was a resident in Clearview Assisted Living in Mount Ayr for 10 years before moving to Georgia. She treasured her time there and all the residents and staff.

She is survived by her daughter Alicia Fish and son-in-law Tim Fish of Roswell, GA; brother Hugh (Evaleen) Barnhouse of Hatfield; grandchildren Brian (Bernadette) Fish and Julie (Robert) Percy of Roswell, Aimee (David) Briglio of Ponte Verda, FL, and great-grandchildren Carter Percy, Melanie Percy, Jane Briglio, Mary Katherine Briglio, Celia Briglio, Ian Fish, and Sarah Fish.

Junetta was preceded in death by daughter Julie Barrett, second husband Howard Barrett, parents Raymond and Florence Barnhouse, brothers Verdo Barnhouse and Francis (Hank) Barnhouse, and sisters Marjorie Barnhouse, Bonnie George, and Alice Boyd.

Graveside Service and Interment was Saturday, May 25, 2013 in the Grant City Cemetery alongside members of her family whom she loved dearly. Arrangements were under the direction of the Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home of Grant City.

Community Services Faces Possible Drastic Expenses under Obamacare

Community Services faces possible drastic new expenses under Obamacare and may possibly require them to cover more employees under the plan, Executive Director Bonnie Patterson told the Community Services Board in a written report at their regular meeting last Wednesday. Community Services could face a double hit from sequestration cuts and Obamacare and may be forced to make even more cuts down the road. Patterson said that she would contact the insurance agent and discuss her concerns with him.In California and Oregon, two of the early states to implement Obamacare, rates will be much lower than expected at least initially. However, the concern is that these are simply teaser rates and that they will go sharply higher once everyone is locked in.

Community Services received their funding cut amount from Head Start due to the sequester cuts; it ended up being 5.27%, an amount which is likely to be permanent even if no more sequester cuts are forthcoming. She said that they anticipated a 6% cut in Section 8 Housing funding as well.

The State Association is applying for federal money to become navigators for clients to become enrolled in the federal healthcare system or to purchase affordable healthcare. If their application is successful, Community Services would be able to help clients navigate the system and pick the plan that is best for them.

Community Services Block Grant funding around the country will be cut by $635,283,911, a reduction of approximately 6.3%, from Fiscal Year 2012. This is according to a letter from the US Department of Health and Human Services. This funding level reflects both the final enacted appropriation and sequestration. These figures reflect both the sequestration and the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2013 signed into law by President Obama on March 26th.

Community Services was able to weatherize two homes during April. They currently have 126 on the HUD rolls and 10 vouchers out. They have received two new contracts for the insulation of homes, one being a new construction and two additional estimates out. They received a grant from Home Depot for the Energy Savings for Veterans Program, which is specifically for materials. Community Services has acquired control of their domain name, website, and everything else related. They plan to start a new website by the first of June.

Saturday, May 25, 2013

Proposed Missouri Ballot Initiative would Restrict Eminent Domain

A proposed Missouri ballot initiative would restrict eminent domain by government entitles. It would amend the Missouri Constitution to allow only government entities to use eminent domain, prohibit its use for private purposes with certain exceptions for utilities, require that eny taking of property be necessary for a public use while continuing to provide "just compensation," require that the intended public use be declared at the time of the taking, and permit the original owners to repurchase the property if it is not so used within five years or if the property is offered to a private entity within 20 years. According to the cost estimate provided by the Secretary of State's office, the total cost or savings to state or local governmental entities is unknown. the estimated costs, if any, could be significant.

The group Citizens for Property Rights is pushing the petition. It says on its website that private use of eminent domain is "one of many types of corporate welfare" that they say is being practiced by the state. On their website, they say that eminent domain, as practiced by certain governmental entities, amounts to nothing more than the theft of small businesses for the benefit of gigantic corporations. For instance, they cite the case of Homer Tourkakis, a dentist who was sued by the City of Arnold, who wanted to take away his dental building so that they could build a huge department store that they said would bring in more revenues.

As quoted by Citizens for Property Rights, Tourkakis said:
I have no objection to development, but I feel it’s wrong to take my property for the benefit of another private party. Over the last three years, I have spent a vast part of my life and a whole lot of money fighting for my constitutional right to keep my property. I would not wish this on anyone. This process is a travesty of justice and needs to be stopped. I don’t take kindly to the idea of having my hard work and property taken away. I could not reproduce what I have here anywhere else. I have a prime location and it has been excellent for my business. But city officials don’t care—they’re too fixated on the increased sales tax revenues the new retail establishments will bring in.

In March 2008, the Missouri Supreme Court ruled that smaller and larger cities have the authority to condemn properties and turn them over to private developers. Eminent domain battles of this nature have been fought throughout the state.

According to a fact sheet from the Missouri Ombudsman of Property Rights summarizing RSMo 523.350, the Landowner Bill of Rights in Missouri, at least 60 days before the filing of a condemnation action seeking to acquire an interest in real property, the condemning authority shall provide the owner of record with a notice. Among other things, the notice is required to state the legal description, the purpose or purposes for which the property is to be acquired, and advising the owner of their rights.

Property owners have the right to seek legal counsel, make a counteroffer and engage in further negotiations, obtain one's own appraisal, have just compensation determined by court-appointed condemnation commissioners and by a jury, seek assistance from the office of Ombudsman of Property Rights created to help owners help understand the process, contest the right to condemn, and exercise the right to request vacation of an easement.

The Missouri Municipal League opposes efforts to prohibit the use of eminent domain to rehabilitate blighted areas according to their most recent policy statement available online. They have litigated in the past against previous attempts to restrict eminent domain. "Eminent domain is indispensable and is most often used as a last resort for revitalizing local economies, creating much-needed jobs, and generating revenue that enables cities to provide essential services. Eminent domain is a powerful tool; its prudent use, when exercised in the sunshine of public scrutiny, helps achieve a great public good that benefits the entire community. Economic policies and incentives supported by the Governor and adopted by the General Assembly will have little effect in encouraging business to expand or relocate in Missouri to support the economic vitality of the state if land cannot be assembled through the power of eminent domain if necessary," said the statement.

In another section relating to municipal acquisition of land, the Municipal League stated in the same policy paper that they opposed any requirement to pay property damages to nearby property owners when a municipality purchases or condemns land for public purposes. They also oppose attempts that would encourage property owners to challenge, risk-free, condemnation settlements "offered in good faith."

One of the main problems is that "blight" is a very subjective definition; the Municipal League maintains that most cases of eminent domain are exercised to combat "blight." However, the Ombudsman for Property Rights posted a whole section of well-kept houses that were targeted for condemnation because they were deemed to be "blighted."


Friday, May 24, 2013

12 Students Make Northwest Honor Rolls

The following area Northwest Missouri State University students made the honor rolls for the Spring 2013 Trimester:
Todd Harding (Academic), Will Buffington (President), Brooke Gilland (Academic), Cody Green (Academic), Micah Green (Academic), Erik Groven (Academic), Danette McBrien (President), Zach Ragan (President), Kevin Runde (Academic), Nichole Cooper (President), Matthew Seipel (President), and Kristin Sherry (Academic).

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Worth County School Board Hires Six New Personnel, Accepts One Resignation

The Worth County School Board accepted one resignation and filled six open positions following a brief closed session after their regular Board of Education Meeting Wednesday. The board accepted the resignation of Kevin Kobbe at the end of the 2012-2013 school year.

The board hired two probationary teachers, one teacher's aide, and three extra duty personnel following the closed session. Hired as new teachers contingent on approved background checks were Alysa Krammer and Amanda Pottorff. Extra duty personnel hired were Abby Sweet and Abbey Morin to coach the Worth County Dance Team and Bryce Shafar to assist Coach Dave Gilland for softball in addition to his basketball coaching duties. The board granted the request by the dance sponsors to sponsor the dance team. The board also hired Nanci Drury as a teacher's aide for the 2013-2014 school year.

The board also rehired the non-certified staff as presented and hired the staff for summer school as presented.


Dave Fairchild Named Interim Superintendent for Worth County

Dave Fairchild of Hamilton was named interim superintendent for Worth County and will serve out the remainder of the school year. Matt Martz, who the board hired in March as a full-time superintendent, will then take over at the beginning of July. Fairchild attended his first Board of Education meeting Wednesday night. He will be at the school on Mondays and Wednesdays. He said at the meeting that he was impressed with the students and staff of the school since taking over and that everyone had been really helpful in getting him started. Last Wednesday's Board of Education meeting was moved back to the Superintendent's office.

Vonda Runde, 3rd grade teacher, reported that her class wrote a poetry book and put it together. She said they were working on words of the week and they also wrote a book about the sea, with each student being assigned a different aquatic animal. Jackie Findley and Patti Lischer also presented to the board.

Abbey Morin and Abby Sweet came to the meeting to request that the school renew sponsorship of the dance team. Morin said that they had been working a lot of concession stands to raise money so that they will not have to use school funds. She said that they were planning to buy new uniforms with their own funds. She said that they were having a choreographer from St. Joseph come up to teach them routines and that they were going to have a bounce house at Old Defiance Days this year in Sheridan. She said there had been a lot of interest in joining the squad for its second year.

Assistant Principal Chuck Borey reported that the boys track team was 7th and the girls 19th at state this year. He said there were some good results on both sides. He said that the Elementary Track Meet went well and that several records fell.

Principal Jon Adwell reported that around 200 grandparents showed up for Grandparents' Day at the school. They served lunch at the multipurpose room that day. Summer School will run from June 3rd through 14th. 48 students from the elementary were asked to attend and 13 students from 7th to 12th grade were asked to attend to make up course work. Elementary attendance was 95.99% while high school attendance was 94.88%. It was slightly higher than last year.

Fairchild reported that he was working on the budget for next year and that he was getting files back in proper order. The ACES program is no longer in existence; the school sent one student there for last year and three for the year before.


Monday, May 20, 2013

Worth County Sheriff's Report

5-13 -- Officer assists on traffic control; rollover accident west of Sheridan just into Nodaway County.
5-13 -- Report of cattle out north of Grant City; owner notified.
5-13 -- Report of damaged mailbox near Sheridan.
5-13 -- Report of stolen expiration sticker.
5-13 -- Officer assists traffic control on Route Y; farmer moving cattle.
5-13 -- Officer transports prisoner from Ringgold County to court in Worth County.
5-14 -- Report of cattle out; owner notified.
5-15 -- New Jersey resident calls regarding hunting lease in Worth County.
5-16 -- Report of cattle out north of Grant City; owner notified.
5-17 -- Report of shots fired near residence west of Grant City.
5-18 -- 911 call; tornado watch alert.

May is Community Action Awareness Month

May is Community Action Awareness Month. Community Services of Northwest Missouri put on a display at the Courthouse Monday showing some of the programs that Community Services offers to area residents. The following are some of the programs offered:

We teach and educate people to become self-sufficient.
--Step Up to Leadership
--Individual Development Accounts
--Back to School Fair
--Budget Counseling and Tax Preparation
--Nutrition Counseling
--Poverty Simulations

We feed people.
--Commodities --  2nd Harvest Food Program
--Senior Box Program
--Backpack Buddies
--Summer Feeding Program
--Community Gardens
--Community Meals

We keep people warm.
--Energy Assistance Program
--Emergency Crisis Intervention Program
--Weatherization of Homes

We keep people in their homes.
--Rent Assisstance 
--HUD Section 8

We repair homes.
--Home Sealers LLC
--HeRO Program

We teach preschoolers and their families.
--Head Start 
--Parent meetings

We play Santa Claus.
--Christmas in July
--Holiday Gift Programs at Christmas

We administer funds to help those in need in our communities during hard times and disasters.
--Salvation Army
--Emergency funds for each county.

We partner with other agencies to provide our programs and meet the needs of clients.
For more information about any of these programs, contact Mary Jo Fletchall at (660) 564-2182 or visit the office in the basement of the Grant City United Methodist Church during posted business hours.

Storm Causes Damage in South Part of Worth County

A Saturday night storm caused wind damage in the southern portion of Worth County. The weather radio went off that evening reporting winds of as high as 70 miles per hour near Rosendale. Ted Findley reported that the winds blew down trees on his property that night. Tank Parman reported that a shingle blew off his roof and a lot of branches blew off of his trees. Sunday night, a tornado watch was issued, but nothing major happened in the county. Rain gauge reports ranged from a quarter to a half inch of rain. Most of the storms missed the area to the south and northwest.

Julia Wideman reported that Mike Wideman had property damage as well. She said that they thought a small tornado took the roof off of his hay shed. Debris was scattered for 1/4 mile north of the shed and splintered 2X6 boards were driven into two different ponds.

Missouri House Passes Guernsey Bill, Three Others Combating Outside Encroachment

The Missouri House passed four bills combating what they see as outside encroachment, including one written and passed by State Representative Casey Guernsey of Bethany. Jerry Drake sent a letter to local legislators Guernsey, Mike Thomson, and Senator Brad Lager asking if they had voted for three bills that were attacked by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch Editorial Board. They were House Bill 436, Senate Bill 267, and Senate Bill 265. Drake's letter reads as follows:

Gentlemen:
Enclosed is an editorial from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch dated May 10, 2013. I am a member of the Sheridan Express newspaper cooperative and intend to submit it to the editor of the newspaper with the suggestion that it be published in the edition of May 22, 2013. He will be interested in knowing if you voted for any of the three bills cited in the article (HB 436, SB 267, SB 265). 

Yours Truly,
Jerry Drake.

As of Monday, May 20th, Casey Guernsey wrote back a handwritten note as follows:
Yes, I voted for all three and will do so every time. In addition, I sponsored, wrote, introduced, and passed HB 170. I'll stand by the Constitution every day.

Guernsey attached a copy of a summary of HB 170.

Information about the following three bills was taken from the House and Senate websites.

House Bill 436 is known as the Second Amendment Preservation Act. It rejects all federal acts which infringe on Missouri citizens' rights under the Second Amendment of the Constitution.

Senate Bill 265 prohibits the state and any political subdivision from implementing any policy recommendations that infringe on private property rights without due process and are traceable to Agenda 21 adopted in 1992 by the United Nations or any other international law or ancillary plan of action that contravenes the federal or state constitutions. In addition, this act prohibits the state and any political subdivision from entering into an agreement with, expending any money for, receiving funds from, contracting services from, or giving financial aid to any organization accredited and enlisted by the United Nations to assist in the implementation of Agenda 21.

Agenda 21 is a voluntary UN action plan relating to combating poverty, conservation and management of resources for development, and strengthening the role of children, youth, women, indigenous peoples, and farmers. The US is a signatory; the action plan has been in existence since 1992. But since it is a voluntary action plan and not a treaty, the US Senate never voted on ratification and it is not legally binding.

Senate Bill 267 is the Civil Liberties Defense Act. It mandates that any court, arbitration, tribunal, or administrative agency ruling is unenforceable if based on a foreign law which is repugnant or inconsistent with the Missouri or US Constitution. It makes contract provisions that choose to apply a foreign law to contractual disputes void and unenforceable in Missouri if it is repugnant or inconsistent with the Missouri or US Constitutions.

House Bill 170 by Guernsey, according to the summary sheet provided by Guernsey, relates to firearms laws and enforcement. It changes the age that a person can be issued a concealed carry endorsement from 21 years to 19 years. It also specifies that it shall be unlawful for any officer or employee of the state, any political subdivision, or any licensed federal firearms dealer to enforce or attempt to enforce any federal act, law, statute, rule, or regulation relating to a personal firearm, firearm accessory, or ammunition that is owned or manufactured commercially or privately in the state that remains exclusively within the boundaries of the state. It makes it a felony for any federal official, agent, or employee to attempt to enforce any federal act, order, law, statute, rule, or regulation created on or effective on or after January 1, 2013. It also declares any federal law, rule or regulation created on or effective on after January 1, 2013 unenforceable if it attempts to ban or restrict ownership of a semi-automatic firearm or any magazine of a firearm accessory or requires any such item to be registered in any manner.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch editorial board said in the headline of their May 10th editorial that the House had won the "triple crown" of "right-wing porn;" below it, they ran a picture of Republican legislator Brian Nieves (R-Washington) brandishing a gun. The Post-Dispatch argued that House Bill 436 would be ruled unconstitutional on multiple grounds and would seek to nullify even the 1938 Federal Firearms Act, which makes it illegal for criminals to transport weapons across state lines. The Dispatch editorial said that Senate Bill 267, while never specifically mentioning it, notes that it was directed against the possible application of Sharia law.

The Post-Dispatch accused the House of focusing on stuff like Agenda 21 which does not have the power of law in the US while ignoring stuff like education reform. "But speaker Tim Jones didn't bother to start the education discussion until after taking meaningless votes on fantasy bills that will never have any effect on a single job or constitutional right for any Missourian, ever," said the editorial.

The laws in question are aimed at curbing what Missouri legislators see as increasing federal and foreign encroachment on Missouri sovereignty. Nullification as a political weapon died out following the Civil War. However, state legislatures have revived it as a weapon to combat what they see as excessive federal and foreign encroachment on state sovereignty. A bill similar to the one passed by Guernsey passed the state of Kansas as well. It is now the target of a major court battle between the Justice Department and the State of Kansas.

1st Floor Courthouse Bathroom Floor Rots Out; Repairs Being Made

The 1st floor bathroom floor on the Worth County Courthouse has rotted out, forcing the county to make repairs and completely redo the bathroom. Some of the old tiles of the bathroom will be put on display. However, the floor had rotted out to the point where the only thing supporting the toilet was the pipe running directly below it. The cause was an accumulation of moisture buildup over the years, which eventually rotted out the entire floor.

The surplus auction brought in $9724.78, including around $2600 for an old jeep that the county sold.

Emergency Management Director Pat Kobbe reported that she was going into Cameron for training.

Economic Developer Tammy Ueligger reported that she was working on getting the former Casey's building as well as other old buildings sold. She reported that Leadership Northwest is seeking nominations for citizenship awards for around the area. The commission will make recommendations to Tammy, who will make the nominations.

County Market Days requested permission to set up on the Courthouse Lawn; commissioners gave their approval. Displays were in the sun even with the canopies sheltering the goods from sunlight. The County Market Days could not be held on the Fairground because of insurance issues; however, since the Courthouse lawn is public property and not privately owned, there was no issue with it being moved to the lawn. Ueligger reported that moving it to the square brought benefits to the existing businesses; for instance, there was cross traffic between Flowers N Things and County Market Days. The onions, radishes, and rhubarb were all sold out by 9 that morning.

At some point in time, County Market Days will have a chef come in from St. Joseph to do a cooking demonstration and vendors will pool resources to pay her way up here. Two girls are planning to sell caramel apples and lemonade; the lemonade stand was a hit last year and commissioners gave their approval to use the Gazebo. Ueligger reported that there were 2-3 vendors who were planning to set up this weekend to take advantage of the citywide garage sale traffic for Grant City and Allendale.

Road & Bridge Foreman Jim Fletchall reported that the county was putting in tubes for roads #232 and #233. One tube had washed clear out. They are also putting in three tubes west of Sheridan. Fletchall also reported that there were problems with the big dozer; one valve was stuck, causing it to overheat. The dozer blew out a radiator before the problem was found. Fletchall reported that the patron gravel hauling for the spring was done and that Wieland Hauling was planning to haul tax rock starting next week and finish by June. The loader was not steering properly and is in the repair shop. Fletchall said that he wanted to get caught up with the tube work and then turn his attention to the Claypool Bridge, which washed out in recent flooding.

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Dalton Henggeler Receives Multiple Science Awards

Northeast Nodaway student Dalton Henggeler received multiple academic awards for science this year.

The school handed out academic awards to the student in each class who attained the highest overall grade for the year. The following students were recognized: Biology – Garet Jackson; Environmental Science – Justin Parker; Chemistry I – Steve Schulte; Chemistry II – Dalton Henggeler; Physics – Dalton Henggeler.

Chemathon participants this year were Kerrigan Adwell, Sarah Bliley, Shayna Dougan, Taryn Farnan, Holly Redden, Steve Schulte, and Jenny Seipel. Each received a t-shirt. Kerrigan got 8th place overall and Schulte was 6th overall.

This year, Dalton Henggeler chose to participate in the National Chemistry Olympiad Local Competition. He competed in the Kansas City Region sponsored by the American Chemical Society. He received a Certificate of Participation for representing Northeast Nodaway in this competition.

Henggeler also received the highest possible honor from Beta Chi Pi, the Science Honor Society for high school students in the state sponsored by the Science Teachers of Missouri. It is based on a point system and students receive points for grades in science classes, participating in area contests, and how they finish in area competitions. There are three honor levels in Beta Chi Pi; Beta is for 300 points; Chi is 400 points, and Pi is 500 points. Dalton Henggeler set a school record by attaining a total of 610 points in four years.

Sydney Thummel, Josh Warner Win Bill Gladstone Jr. Track Trophy

Sydney Thummel won the Bill Gladstone Jr. traveling track trophy for the Worth County girls while Josh Warner won it for the boys at the Worth County Athletic Banquet last week. The trophy on the boys side was still up in the air as of the banquet between Brevyn Ross and Josh Warner. However, Warner went on to win the state title in the Discus and placed second in the Shot Put in state. For Sydney, she was also tabbed the most improved as she qualified to state in four different events and placed in two of them; she also got a time of 12.97 in the 100 in sectionals.

Pastor Dirk Buffington opened the banquet with a prayer. Girls basketball coach Bryce Shafar said that the girls had got off to a tough start, but that they worked hard throughout the year and that he was looking forward to good things from them next year. Managers were Maddison Cassavaugh, Malori Moellenberndt, and Haley Pointer. Provisional letterwinners were Dylanie Abplanalp, Danielle Funk, Rikky Hunt, and Tess Andrews. Letterwinners were Kacey Smyser, Haven Schottel, Rebecca Moore, Claire Andrews, Kristen Andrews, Kaitlyn Davidson, and Sydney Thummel. On the GRC Academic squad were Kacey Smyser, Rebecca Moore, Kristen Andrews, Sydney Thummel, Danielle Funk, Maddison Cassavaugh, and Malori Moellenberndt. Kaitlyn Davidson was named the most improved; the defensive player of the year was Kristen Andrews, the 6th player award went to Sydney Thummel, and the Most Valuable Player was Kacey Smyser.

For the boys basketball team, provisional letterwinners were Will Rennells and Nathan Pointer. Letterwinners were Jared Simmons, Lane Craven, Josh Warner, Chris Alarcon, Truman Moore, Brevyn Ross, Grant Parman, Bryce Ross, Andrew Mullock, and Cole Parman. Bryce Ross was recognized for being named to the all conference, all district, all northwest district, and making the Lions All Star Games coming next month. On the Academic All Conference squad were Grant Parman, Cole Parman, and Josh Warner. Captains for the team were Grant Parman and Bryce Ross. The Most Valuable Player was Bryce Ross, who passed his own coach, Chris Healy, on the all time scoring list with 1419 career points and 549 career rebounds. Bryce finished his career 3rd on the all time scoring list behind only P.J. Sanders and Kent Thompson while he finished 5th on the all time rebounding list. Defensive Player of the Year was Andrew Mullock. The Most Improved was Truman Moore while Rookie of the Year went to Brevyn Ross. Statisticians were Jeannie Fletcher and Jacob Wimer.

For the girls track team, 1st year letterwinners were Rikky Hunt, Dylanie Abplanalp, and Tess Andrews, Returning letterwinners were Rebecca Moore, Haven Schottel, Kristen Andrews, Katie Mullock, Claire Andrews, Kaitlyn Davidson, Sydney Thummel, Malori Moellenberndt, Ally Buffington, and Taylor Causey. Senior awards went to Rebecca Moore and Haven Schottel. Sydney Thummel was awarded for having the most points while Kaitlyn Davidson was recognized for being the runnerup. Newcomer of the Year went to Rikky Hunt. Sydney Thummel was recognized for being the most improved. On the Academic All Conference Team were Rebecca Moore, Kristen Andrews, Ally Buffington, Sydney Thummel, and Malori Moellenberndt.

For the boys golf team, Luke Andrews and Dallas Monticue were returning letterwinners while Devin Allen and Chris Alarcon were 1st year letterwinners.

For the boys track team, 1st year letterwinners were Chris Alarcon, Ben Badell, Truman Moore, Nate Pointer, and Brevyn Ross. Returning letterwinners were Dallas Greenland, Grant Parman, Lane Craven, Cole Parman, Jared Simmons, Josh Warner, and Andrew Mullock. Andrew Mullock was the Most Improved, raising his Pole Vault from 9 feet to 11'6" throughout the year. Seniors were Grant Parman and Dallas Greenland. On the Academic All Conference squad were Grant Parman, Cole Parman, and Josh Warner.

Josh Warner Wins State Title in Discus

Josh Warner won the State Title in Discus and was runner-up in the Shot Put while Claire Andrews was the runner-up in the Pole Vault on the girls side for Worth County in the State Track Meet held last week. For Northeast Nodaway, Sage DeLong was 5th in the 100 while Steve Schulte got over 38 feet in the Triple Jump.

In the throwing events, each competitor has six tries. Josh Warner did not even break 130 feet in his first four tries; however, he finally broke 136 feet on his fifth try, which placed him in second place. He had to break 139 feet to get the state title, which he did, getting a throw of 142'6", a personal best by almost 10 feet.

For Claire Andrews, she battled back from a shoulder injury suffered in sectionals to place second in the Pole Vault with a vault of 9'6". A whole host of vaulters cleared 9'6", and Claire placed second on tiebreaks.

Josh Warner also threw a personal best in the Shot Put, where he also saved his best for last. He threw for 45'8 1/4", breaking his previous personal best by over two feet, to place second on his final throw, beating out teammate Lane Craven. Lane also came close to a personal best in finishing third with a throw of 44'11 3/4".

Grant Parman was 5th in the Long Jump. He also saved his best for last, getting a personal best of 20'6".

The 4x100 team of Grant Parman, Brevyn Ross, Dallas Greenland, and Andrew Mullock finished 8th with a time of 46.66.

Sydney Thummel got a personal best of 27.10 in qualifying for the 200 Finals and then came close with a 6th place finish in the Finals with a time of 27.27.

The girls 4x100 Relay team of Ally Buffington, Katie Mullock, Rikky Hunt, and Sydney Thummel was 6th, beating out long-time nemesis Mound City to qualify and then getting a time of 53.56 in the finals.

Overall, the boys were 7th with 29 team points. The girls finished with 14.

Saturday, May 18, 2013

1st County Market Days Held

The first County Market Days of the year was held Saturday morning on the Grant City Square. Vendors sold knives, hats, Mexican Cactus, wind dancers, fresh eggs, Jersey cream, salsa, pecan tassies, homemade dog treats,cinnamon hard candy, goat milk soap with cornmeal, felt wrapped soap that doubles as a tuffy pad, begonias, geraniums, and snapdragons. The next County Market Day will be held on Saturday, June 1st.

Nesting Place Offers Unique Antiques, Home Decor

The Nesting Place in Maryville offers unique antique gifts and home decor. It is located just east of Taco Johns and Schreck Car Care and across the street from the Hy-Vee parking lot. Owner Teresa Hayes said that she had run a wedding decor business for 15 years, but that she had sold it because she saw a need for an antique and home decor store in Maryville.

The Nesting place offers things for the home as well as all-occasion gifts for Father's Day, Mother's Day, baby showers, and other such occasions.

Hayes said that her goal down the road was to expand to the whole building. She redecorates the store every week so that customers never get the same experience twice when going to the Nesting Place. She only orders one or two of any item that she wants to sell so that customers can get unique items that other people in the area don't have. The Nesting Place attracts customers who want to really decorate their homes and gardens; they were selling items to a customer wanting to create a fairy garden in their yard.

The Nesting Place is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 10-6, Wednesdays from 10-5, and Saturdays from 10-2. They are closed Sundays and Mondays although Hayes said she planned to be open on Mondays during the summer.

Friday, May 17, 2013

Grant City Awards Bid for 11 Mile Water Line Project

M&M Utilities of Chillicothe was awarded the bid for the 11 Mile Water Line Project for Grant City. Before accepting the bid, the city discussed contingency fees, to be paid out in case something goes wrong with the project. The city voted to commit up to $15,000 maximum in contingency fees towards the project. The approval was contingent on approval from the City Attorney.

The council met with Tye Parsons over the Great Northwest Wholesale Water Commission. The commission is seeking to find out who is on board with their project so that they can get their system engineered; they are wanting to know by August. Signing up would not cost the city money immediately; costs would be incurred after the financing was in place. The Missouri legislature unsuccessfully sought to increase the bonding capacity of the commission this year. Several entities who had originally signed up dropped out; some were already part of the Missouri American system and would have to charge higher rates. The City of Grant City replied that they wanted to know a ballpark figure for costs before they committed to the project.

Clerk Ayvonne Morin provided a report showing the city's debit card usage and matching it to the vendors.

Lindsey Jackson gave the city ideas to use for the sesquicentennial logo. "A great place to call home" was chosen as the theme for this year's Sesquicentennial.

Economic Developer Tammy Ueligger reported that there would be a meeting at the Grant City Eatery on June 3rd at noon between the Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri and interested stakeholders from the various political divisions of the county. They are a foundation which connects charitable entities within the Northwest Missouri Area with prospective donors. The council gave approval for a possible flea market on the first Saturday of the month during County Market Days.

The city paid $1169 for a new pump for the water system.

Water Superintendent Greg Miller reported that the pool was ready and was filling up for Opening Day on Memorial Day Weekend (tentative). The chlorine and acid pumps need redoing and Miller requested backup pumps. He said that he had enough spare parts to get the pumps going for this year. He reported that the baby pool needed patching because the concrete was rotting underneath. The stepladders and rope have been put in and the diving board will be ready when the cover is taken off. The city is waiting for the weather to straighten up for work on the tower.

Public Works Director Carl Staton reported that the mowers and trucks were ready for the summer and that the city was putting in driveway tubes. The city also seeded the area where the Yetter Building used to be. The city got quotes for cold mix and hot mix; the council voted to order a load of cold mix for the streets. The city also voted to spend $19,000 for a lot of oil to do 13 blocks of streets this year. Staton said that this would help fix the worst places around the city.

Staton also reported that the city would need to hire help for the Nature Trail. The city has three applications on file. Staton said he would meet with Randy Mehendall of Snyder and Associates to ensure everything was OK.

The city learned that borrowing more money to oil all the streets would require a vote of the people. The city had previously passed a one cent sales tax to pave all the streets.

The city voted to donate $1,000 for the upcoming Sesquicentennial Celebration. The Sesquicentennial Committee is in the process of organizing fundraisers this summer to raise more funds. They are also lining up entertainment as well.

Barb Landrum Recognized for 25 Years of Service at WCCC

Barb Landrum was recognized for 25 years of service at the WCCC Employee Recognition Banquet Thursday afternoon. All of the employees received certificates showing how many years they have worked at the facility. Landrum is the longest serving employee at the facility. The next longest serving employee at the facility is Charlotta Pickering, who has served the facility for 24 years.

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Karen Fletchall Resigns as WCCC Administrator

Karen Fletchall resigned as the WCCC administrator, Board President Mike Hall told the Sheridan Express Thursday morning (May 16th). Former Director of Nursing Bev Miller will serve as interim administrator and will appoint an interim Director of Nursing from the staff; the board left it to her discretion. Miller began her duties last Friday (May 10th). If she takes and passes a test, then she can become a full-time administrator. The WCCC is required to have an administrator and a director of nursing, but one person cannot serve as both simultaneously. The director of nursing must work a full time 40 hours a week, even for a small facility like the WCCC. Board members declined to discuss specifics related to Fletchall's departure.

For the last two years, board members Kathy Miller and Becky Baker had grilled Fletchall at regular WCCC Board meetings on issues related to accounting and finances extensively; meetings would frequently last as late as 10 or 11 at night.

Bev Miller attended her first meeting as interim administrator at a special meeting held Wednesday night (May 15th). One of Miller's first duties will be to create a chain of command for the staff. She said this would allow employees to know who their immediate supervisor was and allow residents and family members to know who to contact when they needed something.

Work is being done on the sidewalk in the back around the gazebo. The new concrete is now ready to pour. These are remedies that were required by the state. The facility rented a skid loader from Worth County Lumber and Bill Calhoon came and moved out all the old concrete.

Immediate problems were discussed relating to the facility's services. The facility has had to turn away four prospective outpatient customers due to there not being a physical therapist available. They are looking for a physical therapist assistant as the current one is leaving.

Administrator Miller said that it was not about her, but that it was all about the employees and the staff at the facility. As one of her first acts, she organized an employee appreciation luncheon Thursday afternoon and honored all of the employees for their service to the facility. She said that she would be making gradual changes to the operation.

One change will be to train employees on how to meet the budget. Miller said that the employees had not had training on how to adjust their budgets when the census was not what was budgeted for. Now, employees will be expected to adjust their spending depending on the census and justify any expenses that are over budget. She did not promise any quick fixes, but she said that things could be turned around with the help and cooperation of the staff. Miller said that she had gotten total cooperation from the staff and board member Becky Baker promised the support of the board.

Plans for developing a set of written policies were discussed, such as how much could be spent without board approval. "It's about some fundamental stuff," said Baker. "It's a statement of how we as a facility do business."

Miller said that while she was promising no quick fixes, she felt that things were already getting better. Challenges for the facility include balancing the budget (currently spending $170 per resident per day according to figures presented at the meeting), maintaining their five star rating as recognized by US News and World Report, meeting the medical needs of the community such as physical therapy and other services offered, and reversing a long-term decline of residents.

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Obituary -- Lucille Wall Carnes Cook 1924-2013

Lucille Wall Carnes Cook, born March 22, 1924, woke on Mother's Day, May 12, 2013 in heaven; welcomed by beloved 1st husband Dale Carnes and baby Stephen, parents Chester Wall and Lena Nichols and siblings. Lucille leaves children Patsy Downey (Chuck), Pamela Winfrey (Dennie), Bradley Carnes (Christie), and Sidney Carnes as well as nine dearly loved grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Lucille and Dale were "parents" to many friends and family thru the years and we'll miss her greatly.

2nd husband, Willie Cook, was a friend and companion in her later years. Lucille will be missed by special friends Alma Watson and JoAnn Hadley. Arrangements: Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home, Grant City; graveside memorial service at Honey Grove Cemetery, Sunday, May 19th at 3 p.m.

Rennells Charged with Fraud, Theft

(Worth County Prosecutor’s Office) – Michael S. Rennells, 34, Grant City, was charged Monday with two counts of class C felony forgery and one count of class C felony stealing in the Worth County Associate Circuit Court.  The charges allege that the incidents occurred over a period from September, 2012 through April, 2013, and involve fraud and theft from the Worth County R-III School District using the District credit card.

According to Worth County Prosecuting Attorney David Baird, the charges follow an investigation by the Missouri State Highway Patrol Division of Drug and Crime and Control upon request for assistance by Worth County Sheriff Terry Sheddrick.

Baird stated that the charges were filed Monday afternoon and Associate Circuit Judge Joel Miller set bond at $10,000. According to Baird, additional charges could be filed once the complete investigation reports are received from the Highway Patrol.

Under Missouri law the maximum punishment for a class C felony is 7 years in prison and a fine of $5,000.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


Monday, May 13, 2013

Facebook Security Update Hoax

A new hoax is making the rounds of Facebook purporting to provide security updates for the popular social networking site.

Hoax Slayer, the site debunking such hoaxes, reports that one such hoax contains a message with a “final security warning” from Facebook demanding that users click a link to update their account information. However, this is a phishing scam that allows scammers access to your account. The letter reads as follows:
This is due to the number of Facebook users who use fake profiles, which violates the provisions of our services. If you are the original owner of this account please confirm your account to avoid blocking the account.
Please re-confirm your account here:
{Link Removed]
If within 24 hours you do not confirm, then your account will be deleted and the user will not be able to use it again.
Facebook Team Security 2013.
Victims are taken to a site that looks like Facebook, but is not. If the victim gives their username and password, it will take them to another page asking them to provide their e-mail and password.
To protect yourself, do not click on any links to applications purporting to be from Facebook Security. Identity thieves and spammers collect this information for criminal purposes.

In another one, the website Inside Facebook reports that a message purporting to be from Facebook Security tells Facebook page admins that their page is in violation of Facebook’s Terms of Service and that their page is about to be deleted. Users are told that if they think that this is a mistake, they should click on a link and then confirm their account details. They are directed to a third party application. All websites which have “apps.facebook.com” on them are not from Facebook, but from third-party applications. While most Facebook applications are safe, there are many which only aim to separate you from your money.

The website Naked Security reports on chain letters supposedly allowing users to alter the Terms of Service by reposting the chain letter. However, that is not possible because Facebook is still the owner of the site.

Kerrigan Adwell, Ethan Schmitz get MSHSAA Sportsmanship Awards

Kerrigan Adwell and Ethan Schmitz received the MSHSAA Sportsmanship Awards at the Northeast Nodaway Athletic Banquet last Tuesday night. Adwell, Taryn Farnan, and Steve Schulte received the Platte Valley Student Athlete honors for excelling in the classroom as well as on the basketball court.

Softball Coach Hilary Loe recognized both the Junior High and Varsity softball teams. The varsity team won their first game in two years last fall. Jill Spire was recognized for being honorable mention PVC. Claudia Wiederholt was the Offensive MVP while Jill Spire was recognized as the Defensive MVP for the team. Dallis Coffelt was recognized as the most improved.

The Junior High Boys Basketball team, recognized by Coach Chaim Jenkins, brought back some good experience from last year and most of their games were within a few points. "It was a fun group to coach and they never quit," said Jenkins. Next, Coach Hilary Loe recognized the junior high girls basketball team.

Coach Vance Proffitt recognized the Varsity Girls Basketball Team; he said that next year would be a great opportunity to build for next year with the many players that they will have back. He said that it was a fun group of girls to coach. Dallis Coffelt was the Defensive MVP while Taryn Farnan was the Offensive MVP. Kaysie Wiederholt was named the Most Improved player while Jill Spire received the Black and Blue Award.

Coach Chaim Jenkins recognized the Boys team next. He said that the team had a lot of close games against tough teams and that they were a team that other teams didn't want to face. He said their best game was their double overtime win over the unbeaten 275 champs Mound City. Northeast also threw a scare into eventual state runnerup Stanberry in the opening round of districts before losing by 5.

He recognized all the players one by one, starting with Max Giesken. He said that Max was not afraid to step up despite only being a freshman. Garet Jackson was a player who loved the game of basketball and was always watching it when he was not playing it. Austin Jones was always going 100% and always flying around the gym. Andrew Faustlin got better as the season progressed and earned more minutes during the course of the season. Joel Scroggie came on strong and established himself as a force on the boards this year. Steve Schulte had a high basketball IQ and was always doing the little things right. Shaun Burns provided instant offense for the team and was a spark off the bench. Jason Henggeler battled a season-ending hip injury, but he always showed up every day and knew what he was doing. Sage DeLong was a super athlete and a great player to have on any team. Tyler Schmitz did the dirty work on the team, had a good jump shot, and usually guarded the other team's biggest player. Kevin Stoll could play any position on the floor and was very unselfish, always sharing the ball. Jenkins said that Aaron Patton was a special player who kept the team focused, always stayed well after practice to work on his game, and always worked on his shot.

Sage DeLong won the award for highest field goal percentage. Steve Schulte got the award for the most 3-point shots. Jason Henggeler got an award for the highest free throw percentage. Kevin Stoll got the awards for rebounding and blocked shots. Aaron Patton got the award for the most points, steals, and assists. Joel Scroggie got an award for Breakthrough Player of the Year. Tyler Schmitz got the Black and Blue Award.

The track teams were recognized next. The Junior High showed a promising foundation for future success as they got to where they were placing consistently at events. For the boys, Korey Adwell got to where he was consistently improving in the discus. Max Giesken improved 8" over the course of the year in the High Jump and placed second at the PVC. Jill Spire improved all year in the 100, qualifying and placing 4th in districts. Talina Nelson threw the discus for the girls while MaKayla McCoy was a strong relay runner, getting the team off to fast starts in that event. Haley Howard got better every single time in the hurdles while Andrew Faustlin showed some promise in the speed events.

Kristan and Bailey Judd did the throwing events for the girls while Brianna Riley did some of the speed events, running the 100, 200, and the 4x200. Steve Schulte went to state and broke the 40 foot barrier in the Triple Jump after making an adjustment. Sage DeLong got to where he was placing 1st and 2nd every single time in the 100 and 200 for the boys before pulling his hamstring; he still qualified for state this year in the 100. Katrina Freemyer placed half the time in the hurdling events while Taryn Farnan, despite having to learn to jump from the other side due to a shoulder injury, got to where she could jump 4'8" and won districts in the High Jump; she also did the jumping events for the girls.

Sage DeLong was named male track athlete of the year while Taryn Farnan was named female track athlete of the year.

The baseball team, in its third year, matched a school record with three wins this year pending the outcome of districts. Coach Vance Proffitt said that they did everything he asked them to despite playing some tough teams and a tough schedule. Andrew Faustlin threw the first no-hitter in school history for one of the wins. Aaron Patton was the team's offensive MVP while Faustlin was the defensive MVP. Max Giesken was the most improved.

Grant Parman, Rebecca Moore Receive Graduation Honors at Worth County

Grant Parman was named Valedictorian and Rebecca Moore Salutatorian at the Worth County graduation ceremonies Sunday afternoon. 22 Worth County students graduated this year. The class motto was "As long as we have memories, yesterday remains. As long as we have hope, tomorrow awaits." Class colors were teal and glittery silver; the class flower was the white rose. The class song was "The Time of Our Life."

Graduating with highest honors were Moore, Parman, and Kacey Smyser. Graduating with honors were Brandon Allee, Ashley Behrens, Sidney Davenport, Starla Farnsworth, Kiley Reynolds, Chase Thummel, and Shannon Paige White. Other graduates were Kali Cameron, Shelby Goacher, Dallas Greenland, Dakota Hill, Dakota Owsley, Bryce Ross, Haven Schottel, Cameron Staton, Cody Straight, Clayton Troutwine, and Kyle Welch.

Clayton Troutwine was the Class President. Dallas Greenland was Vice President. Sidney Davenport was Secretary, Rebecca Moore was Treasurer, and Bryce Ross and Chase Thummel were Student Council Representatives. Janice Borey and Clella Goodwin were the class sponsors.

Student Council President Clayton Troutwine and Principal Jon Adwell gave brief opening remarks. Assistant Principal Chuck Borey gave the speech. He told the graduates that all of them had success in one way or another and that they were coming of age and moving on to a new stage in life.

Borey said that back in 1988 when he graduated, MASH and Cheers were the top TV shows, "Welcome to the Jungle" was one of the top songs, postage stamps were only 22 cents, the US had just shot down an Iranian commercial airliner, George Bush Sr. was running for President, and he had big plans for himself. He said his plan in life was to live in a big house, play for the Minnesota Vikings, be a millionaire in five years, and run for office. "But my life didn't quite go that way," he said. Instead, he said he drives a pickup, he's far from being a millionaire, he spends his vacations in a hayfield, and he hasn't regretted a bit of it. "Life doesn't usually follow your plans," he told the students. "True success is how well you handle things."

"Chances are, you won't be a millionaire," said Borey. "The important thing is how well you persevere because nothing will be handed to you." Borey talked about his older brother, who dropped out of college, joined the military, and learned the value of discipline. The military paid his way through college, and Borey said his brother made the most of his second chance and that now he is a dean of students at a school up in Minnesota. "He was an inspiration for me for how to work hard," he said. He concluded by telling the graduates that the future was in their hands and encouraged them to go where no path had gone before and to leave a trail.

Valedictorian Grant Parman told the graduates that with new freedoms come new responsibilities and that he owed a huge amount of gratitude towards the teachers, administrators, parents, ministers, custodians, coaches, and advisors for pushing him and the other students to do their best. Salutatorian Rebecca Moore said that the Class of 2013 will forever remain in their hearts because of all the memories that were created.

Sunday, May 12, 2013

Tiger Boys Qualify 11 in Districts

The Worth County boys qualified 11 athletes in districts at Albany last week, racking up over 90 team points in the process.

Brevyn Ross qualified in the 110 Hurdles with a time of 17.62. That was two seconds behind the time of Dustin Ellis of Stanberry. Also qualifying for sectionals was Cole Parman with a time of 18.07, good enough for 4th.

Brevyn Ross also qualified in the 300 Hurdles with a time of 43.78.

The 4x100 team of Grant Parman, Cole Parman, Dallas Greenland, and Andrew Mullock qualified with a time of 47.17. That was .22 of a second behind Mound City and .55 of a second behind Albany’s winning time of 46.62.

The 4x200 relay team of Grant Parman, Cole Parman, Brevyn Ross, and Andrew Mullock also qualified with a time of 1:37.79, good enough for fourth place.

Qualifying in the Pole Vault was Andrew Mullock with a leap of 11’6. Jared Simmons did not qualify, but got a personal best and finished 5th with a vault of 9 feet.

Grant Parman qualified in the Long Jump and broke the 20 foot barrier, finishing second with a leap of 20’1”. That was 3” behind Eric Duncan of Rock Port.

The Tigers qualified two in the Shot Put. Lane Craven threw a personal best of 46’5½” to win the event. Josh Warner was 3rd with a throw of 42’11”.

Two athletes qualified in the Discus; Dallas Greenland won with a throw of 140’8” while Josh Warner was 2nd with a throw of 132’8½”.

Sydney Thummel Qualifies in All Four Events for Tigers

Sydney Thummel qualified in all four of her events for the Worth County girls track team in sectionals Saturday.

Claire Andrews injured her shoulder as she landed wrong on it Saturday, but she still qualified for state with a 4th place finish of 8'6".

Sydney Thummel placed second in the 100 as she got a time of 12.97, .43 of a second behind Maria Rains of KC Lutheran. Sydney also finished second to Rains in the 200, getting a time of 27.1. Sydney then got a personal best in the 110 hurdles as she finished fourth with a time of 17.13.

The 4x100 team of Ally Buffington, Sydney Thummel, Katie Mullock, and Rikky Hunt finished 4th and qualified with a time of 55.69.

On the boys side, Josh Warner qualified in the Discus with a throw of 133'9", second to Max Carrillo of St. Joseph Christian. The boys qualified two in the Shot Put as Lane Craven won the event with a throw of 45'5" and Josh Warner was right behind him with a throw of 43'6 1/4". Andrew Mullock matched a personal best in the Pole Vault and qualified with a vault of 11'6". Grant Parman qualified in the Long Jump with a jump of 19'5 1/2".

Brevyn Ross qualified in both hurdle events. In the 110 Hurdles, Brevyn qualified with a time of 16.91, good enough for fourth place. In the 300 Hurdles, Brevyn also placed fourth, qualifying with a time of 43.75.

The 4x100 team of Grant Parman, Cole Parman, Dallas Greenland, and Andrew Mullock came as close as they had all year to beating Mound City and qualified with a time of 46.98, second to Mound City's time of 46.93.

Saturday, May 11, 2013

Luetta Lorraine King 1927-2013

Luetta Lorraine King, 85, formerly of Blockton, departed this life on May 7, 2013 at the Mount Ayr Health Care Center in Mount Ayr, where she had resided the past two years.

Lorraine was born July 17, 1927 in Savannah to Lonnie Gilbert and Mary (Brumfield) Cavin. She graduated from the Blockton High School. On October 12, 1946, she was united in marriage to Edwin Wendell King. To this union two sons were born, Phillip and Daniel. Edwin and Lorraine had over 66 years together.

Lorraine was very active in the Blockton community as long as her health permitted. She was a member of the Methodist Church, Eastern Star, American Legion Auxiliary, Garden Club, and Sunshine Club.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Wesley Eugene Cavin, and sister Lillian May Cavin.

Lorraine is survived by husband Edwin of Mount Ayr Health Care, sons Phillip (Myrna) of Bedford, and Dan (Esther) of Redding; six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and two step-grandchildren.

Lorraine has been cremated. There will be a Memorial Service at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of the Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City.

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Sydney Thummel, Kaitlyn Davidson, Claire Andrews All Win in Districts; Girls Team 2nd

Sydney Thummel, Kaitlyn Davidson, and Claire Andrews all got wins in districts at Albany and the Tiger girls finished second to Mound City as Worth County found themselves in good shape going into sectionals. They had a host of qualifiers move on. Mound City finished with 136 team points to 100 for Worth County.

Sydney Thummel won the 100 over Madison Taylor of Rock Port, getting a time of 13.62 as she has established herself as one of the consistent threats in the event. She then came within two hundredths of a second to Nodaway-Holt's Megan Rosenbohm, finishing second in the 200 with a time of 27.59 to Rosenbohm's 27.57. Kaitlyn Davidson and Claire Andrews were also near their peak form going into sectionals. Claire Andrews once again broke the 10 foot barrier, beating out three competitors who topped nine feet. She got a new pole and it appeared to be helping out. Sister Tess matched a season best and finished 6th with a vault of 7 feet. Kaitlyn Davidson won the Shot Put with a throw of over 36 feet and Taylor Causey nearly qualified as well, getting a personal best, breaking the 30 foot barrier, and finishing 5th.

Haven Schottel qualified in the 400, where she finished fourth with a time of 1:11.59.

Sydney Thummel picked up one of her best times in the 100 Hurdles and picked up her second 2nd place finish of the day, getting a time of 17.35 to move on to sectionals in that event.

The 4x100 gave Mound City a run for their money and finished second; Ally Buffington, Sydney Thummel, Katie Mullock, and Rikky Hunt finished second with a time of 54.70 to Mound City's 54.45.

The 4x200 team of Malori Moellenberndt, Ally Buffington, Rikky Hunt, and Haven Schottel also qualified, finishing second to Mound City with a time of 1:56.08.

The 4x400 was the third relay team to qualify as Kristen Andrews, Malori Moellenberndt, Rikky Hunt, and Haven Schottel finished 3rd with a time of 4:37.27.

Katie Mullock did not qualify in the Long Jump; she was 6th with a jump of 14'8 1/2". Rikky Hunt was 7th in the Triple Jump with a jump of 28'11 3/4".

Kaitlyn Davidson qualified in the discus with a throw of 91'8 1/2". She beat out teammate Rebecca Moore, who was right behind her with a throw of 87'5 1/4".




Taryn Farnan Wins High Jump; Bluejay Teams Qualify Four in Districts

Taryn Farnan won the High Jump at Albany, matching her best jump at 4'8" this year. She won even though she was jumping from the other side than what she was used to because of her shoulder injury. Jill Spire got her highest showing in the 100 at just the right time, finishing fourth and qualifying with a time of 14.42. The 4x200 Relay Team of Katrina Freemyer, Brianna Riley, Mikeala McCoy, and Jill Spire did not qualify, but got their best time of the year at 2:02 to finish 7th. Taryn Farnan did not qualify in the Triple Jump, but got her best time of the year and finished 6th with a leap of 29'8".

For the boys, Sage DeLong came back from an injury and finished second in the 100 behind only Eric Duncan, getting a time of 11.59 to Duncan's 11.41. Max Giesken did not qualify in the High Jump, but he placed, getting 7th with a leap of 5'4". Steve Schulte, who has been steadily improving his distance in the triple jump, nearly broke the 40 foot barrier, getting third place with a jump of 39'11, a personal best.

Junior High Tiger Girls Win GRC Title

The Worth County Junior High girls track team won the GRC title Wednesday, beating out Gallatin for the win. They finished with 94.33 points to 82 for Gallatin. They were well ahead of the competition. The girls had their best showing of the year in both the 100 and the Long Jump in order to get critical points to beat out Gallatin.

Aubrey Staton was second in the Discus with a throw of 61'3". Grace Schottel once again showed her versatility as an athlete; she tried her hand at the High Jump and finished tied for fourth with a height of 4'2". Gallatin was 1-2 in the Pole Vault, but Worth County was right behind at 3rd and 4th as Sidney Troutwine and Dominique Findley both got vaults of 6 feet.

The girls had their best finish of the year in the Long Jump right when they needed it. They were 1-2 in the event with Kristen Ross winning with a jump of 13'4 1/2" and Payton Adwell finishing right behind with a jump of 13'2". Grace Schottel then came through with a performance way over her head in the 100. She had been coming close all year in that event and she finally won it right when it was needed the most, getting a time of 14.41 and beating out Kelsey Stone of Braymer by .13 of a second. Kristen Ross was 5th with a time of 14.97.

Ross then finished 4th in the 200 with a time of 30.99 and then proceeded to get her second win in her specialty event, the 75 hurdles. That race developed into the closest race in the afternoon between Ross and Tatum Griffin of Gallatin, but Ross got a personal best time of 13.71, around a quarter of a second better than her previous best, to beat out Griffin by .06 of a second and win the event. Aubrey Ragan battled it out with Marissa Smithson of Stanberry and got third with a time of 15.01; Darbi Weddle placed for the first time in the event all year with a time of 15.71, good enough for 6th.

Worth County was fourth in the 4x200 and then Grace Schottel picked up some points in the 1600, finishing second to nemesis Kalie Peterson and getting a personal best time of 6:14.36.

The 4x100 was 6th and then the 4x400 won the final event of the afternoon, beating out Polo by .67 of a second in a close race to claim the title.

The boys finished 7th with 32 team points. The 4x400 was second to Stanberry with a time of 4:17.68. Cade Allee was 6th in the 400 with a time of 1:03.67. The 4x100 was 6th with a time of 55.11. The 4x200 was fourth with a time of 1:54.36. The boys placed three in the Pole Vault as Lucas Caddenhead was second with a vault of 7'6". Ryan McClellan and Will Engel tied for third with vaults of 6 feet.






Monday, May 6, 2013

Worth County Sheriff's Report

4-29 -- Report of deer tangled in fence; Conservation agent handles.
4-30 -- Resident reports suspicious car on his property; deputy investigates.
5-1 -- Tornado siren test; all OK except for Worth.
5-1 -- 911 fire call; Grant City and Sheridan Fire Departments respond; officers helping with traffic control.
5-2 -- Two Worth County residents in to renew CCW permit.
5-3 -- Worth County female prisoner has been released to rehab.
5-3 -- Person in to get fingerprinted.
5-3 -- Officer assisting Sheridan ambulance call.
5-3 -- Persons in to ask for well-being check on family member; person located and is OK.
5-3 -- 911 hangup call; officer investigates; ambulance notified and transports subject to Maryville.
5-3 -- 3 calls of cattle out on 169.
5-4 -- Person calls about persons stuck on road and tearing up his yard.

Saturday, May 4, 2013

Obituary -- Allyn Duane Young 1940-2013

Allyn Duane Young, of Raymore, Missouri was born October 5, 1940 in Sheridan, Missouri the son of Caryl Isaac and Pauline Ruth (Allison) Young. He departed this life on Thursday, May 2, 2013 at Research Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri at the age of 72 years, 6 months and 27 days. 

On August 8, 1958, Allyn was united in marriage to Carol Jo Wilson in Sheridan, Missouri.
Allyn was employed as a warehouse supervisor for GSA, Kansas City, Missouri for 35 years until his retirement in 2006. He loved to hunt, fish, spend time outdoors, travel and to garden. Allyn had lived in Kansas City and Harrisonville, Missouri before moving to Raymore in 1986.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Donald Duane Young on April 5, 1996.
Allyn is survived by his wife, Carol J. Young of the home; a son, Drexyl Young and wife Sharon, Edwardsville, Illinois; 5 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; a brother, Robert Young, Sheridan, Missouri; a sister, Carlene Netteburg, Whitefish, Montana; other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 4, 2013 at the Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri with burial in the Orient Cemetery, Harrisonville.

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Fire Destroys Former Carol Chicken Residence Between Sheridan and Grant City

High winds led to a trash fire burning out of control and destroying the former Carol Chicken residence between Sheridan and Grant City early Wednesday afternoon. At 11:51 Wednesday, the Grant City Fire Department was dispatched to the structure fire 4 miles west of Grant City. First units were enroute at 11:57 and on the scene at 12:03 p.m. The fire was controlled at 1:15 and all units were back in service at 2:29 p.m. They were assisted by the Sheridan Fire Department, the Worth County Ambulance District, and the Worth County Sheriff's Department. The Worth County Fire Auxiliary provided water and food for the firefighters.

Fire Chief Ben Fletcher said that the fire spread from a trash fire to a tree to a shed to the structure. Nobody was living at the house and there were no injuries.