December Birthdays
2 -- Karen Swaney; 3 -- Kody Pritchett; 4 -- Charles Force; 5 -- Kathy Cottrell, Melanie New; 6 -- Sarah Finch; 7 -- Brianna Lynn Riley, Ralph Kobbe; 8 -- Bob Young; 10 -- Riggin Layne Smyser, Doy Allee; 11 -- Beverly Ruckman, Brad Hill; 12 -- Joshua Miller; 13 -- Mary McConnell, Icle Young; 14 -- Chris Owens, Chelsie Hinshaw; 15 -- Leah Petersen, Caleb Hinshaw; 16 -- Adam Austin; 17 -- Brian Monticue; 18 -- Brandi Force; 19 -- Allison Larison, Kay Rowen, Paula Hansen, Dean Thomas, Shawn Dignan; 21 -- Nicholas Allee; 22 -- Darwin Force, Mitchell Andrews, Charlea Lewis; 23 -- Tanya Belokonny; 24 -- Joe Stark; 25 -- Marcia Rush, Jesse Stark; 26 -- Wonda Shimer, Mike Rowe, Jason Meredith; 27 -- Cody Staton, Charlotte Belokonny; 28 -- Nathan Fitzgerald, Christie Owens; 29 -- Loretta Hart, Larry Hibbs; 30 -- Sherry Evans; 31 -- P.J. Sanders, Braden Rowe.
December Anniversaries
26 -- David & Karla Parman; 28 -- Scott & Judy Houk; 29 -- Bob & Peggy Young.
Monday, November 24, 2014
Doin' God's Work -- All Parish Worship
by Glenda Wyer
All Parish congregated at Sheridan UMC. It was good to see so many familiar faces with hearts joined together to worship! The Lord was smiling with so many there for this special celebration. When everyone works together to bring God glory, one had to feel the blessings! A special thanks to all of God's helpers. Jackie Wardrobe and Kathy Brand gave us a good lesson on judging people. Mary Chapman's Worship for Children and singing with Jim Spiers and Judy Trullinger was a special treat too!
Several attended the feast at the community hall afterwards. A good potluck and special thanks to all the kitchen helpers! It felt like Thanksgiving dinner to me! I was thankful the weather mist wasn't too cold to become ice. I pray that everyone learned from the lesson and enjoyed the chance to meet with others.
November, Turkey Week! There seemed to be a lot of opportunities Sunday! A month of gratitude could be changed to a year full of His blessings. Praise God for an awesome worship and communion together!
Due to Thanksgiving preparations, there will be no Wednesday 3:30 gathering this week for Sheridan Praise and Prayer. We will be doing it, but not together.
We will begin the Season of Advent by Hanging of the Greens next Sunday. Back to the regular church schedules until the next "5th Sunday."
December is just around the corner! If we thought the week was busy, buckle up; God has many more opportunities for us to serve Him. We may never know what task the Lord needs us to perform to be effective. Church does not happen only on Sundays; it is a daily process to become ALL He created us to be.
Originally in 1621, with about the same attendance as Sunday, they met, prepared a feast, and prayed for three days as they shared the opportunities God was leading them, that would change the world. I'm sure they had no idea that would continue hundreds of years later. See you in church.
All Parish congregated at Sheridan UMC. It was good to see so many familiar faces with hearts joined together to worship! The Lord was smiling with so many there for this special celebration. When everyone works together to bring God glory, one had to feel the blessings! A special thanks to all of God's helpers. Jackie Wardrobe and Kathy Brand gave us a good lesson on judging people. Mary Chapman's Worship for Children and singing with Jim Spiers and Judy Trullinger was a special treat too!
Several attended the feast at the community hall afterwards. A good potluck and special thanks to all the kitchen helpers! It felt like Thanksgiving dinner to me! I was thankful the weather mist wasn't too cold to become ice. I pray that everyone learned from the lesson and enjoyed the chance to meet with others.
November, Turkey Week! There seemed to be a lot of opportunities Sunday! A month of gratitude could be changed to a year full of His blessings. Praise God for an awesome worship and communion together!
Due to Thanksgiving preparations, there will be no Wednesday 3:30 gathering this week for Sheridan Praise and Prayer. We will be doing it, but not together.
We will begin the Season of Advent by Hanging of the Greens next Sunday. Back to the regular church schedules until the next "5th Sunday."
December is just around the corner! If we thought the week was busy, buckle up; God has many more opportunities for us to serve Him. We may never know what task the Lord needs us to perform to be effective. Church does not happen only on Sundays; it is a daily process to become ALL He created us to be.
Originally in 1621, with about the same attendance as Sunday, they met, prepared a feast, and prayed for three days as they shared the opportunities God was leading them, that would change the world. I'm sure they had no idea that would continue hundreds of years later. See you in church.
Saturday, November 22, 2014
Tiger Sports Teams Receive Three Complimentary Reports
The Worth County School received three complimentary reports this fall for their sports teams. While the school has received complimentary reports before, this is the most they have ever received in a year.
The first was from Umpire Alex Daniel Peterson, who umpired the softball team's game with Braymer. He wrote, "My umpiring partner's father passed away last night. When we couldn't find a replacement on short notice, Jerry came anyway. Between the varsity and JV games, the Worth County coach [Dave Gilland] thanked us for doing a good job even after a tough and emotional loss for his girls. I commented that I was amazed at what Jerry was willing and able to do while grieving his loss and informed the coach of the circumstances. After the JV game, my partner and I were leaving the field when the Worth County team ran over to tell us thank you. Then, one player asked if Jerry was the official who needed the group hug. I told her that he needed one indeed, and the entire team did exactly that. After a long tough night of softball, 100 miles away from home, those young ladies took the time and had the class to show appreciation and loving kindness to a man who worked through a lot of real pain while officiating their game. That is certainly a great testament to the quality of character-focused coaches, parents, teachers, and administrators of that school district."
The second came from Referee Dennis Dornhoffer, who officiated the football game between Worth County and Nodaway-Holt. He wrote, "These young men all night long displayed what sportsmanship should be like, and it all starts at the top. From the superintendent, Dr. Martz, the principal, Mr. Adwell, their AD, Mr. Borey, their head coach, Mr. Healy and his assistants, these young men did an outstanding job of showing what it's like to play football the right way. If this game was for the state championship, the MSHSAA would have really enjoyed it. My crew and myself were really excited on how both teams played this game."
The third report came from Referee Terry Hopkins, who worked the Worth County Junior High Boys game with South Nodaway. "This was the best coached junior high basketball game I have worked this season," he wrote. "The players respected the game on and off the court. The coaches spent their time teaching the game along with trying to win. Thanks to both schools."
The first was from Umpire Alex Daniel Peterson, who umpired the softball team's game with Braymer. He wrote, "My umpiring partner's father passed away last night. When we couldn't find a replacement on short notice, Jerry came anyway. Between the varsity and JV games, the Worth County coach [Dave Gilland] thanked us for doing a good job even after a tough and emotional loss for his girls. I commented that I was amazed at what Jerry was willing and able to do while grieving his loss and informed the coach of the circumstances. After the JV game, my partner and I were leaving the field when the Worth County team ran over to tell us thank you. Then, one player asked if Jerry was the official who needed the group hug. I told her that he needed one indeed, and the entire team did exactly that. After a long tough night of softball, 100 miles away from home, those young ladies took the time and had the class to show appreciation and loving kindness to a man who worked through a lot of real pain while officiating their game. That is certainly a great testament to the quality of character-focused coaches, parents, teachers, and administrators of that school district."
The second came from Referee Dennis Dornhoffer, who officiated the football game between Worth County and Nodaway-Holt. He wrote, "These young men all night long displayed what sportsmanship should be like, and it all starts at the top. From the superintendent, Dr. Martz, the principal, Mr. Adwell, their AD, Mr. Borey, their head coach, Mr. Healy and his assistants, these young men did an outstanding job of showing what it's like to play football the right way. If this game was for the state championship, the MSHSAA would have really enjoyed it. My crew and myself were really excited on how both teams played this game."
The third report came from Referee Terry Hopkins, who worked the Worth County Junior High Boys game with South Nodaway. "This was the best coached junior high basketball game I have worked this season," he wrote. "The players respected the game on and off the court. The coaches spent their time teaching the game along with trying to win. Thanks to both schools."
Worth County School Announces One Retirement, One Resignation
The Worth County School Board accepted two resignations during their closed session following their regular meeting Thursday. The first was Janell Dignan, resource teacher for grades 7-12. She will be leaving effective June 30th, 2015. She has taught for 37 years. She wrote, in part, "I am very glad that 34 of my 37 years in education have been spent here. I appreciate the opportunities and trust you have given me personally, as well as professionally. I have enjoyed working with and learning from my colleagues for the past 34 years, but I am ready to move on to the next phase of my life."
Mary Chapman wrote a letter of resignation effective May 20th, 2015. She said in her letter that one of her daughters and her husband, in Clarksville (TN), gave birth to a daughter who needed open heart surgery at 4 days old. She will be leaving to be with her daughter and son-in-law, who is currently serving with the 101st Airborne Division in Fort Campbell (KY). "I have truly been blessed to be a part of the Worth County School family for 11 years," Ms. Chapman wrote in her resignation letter. "I have made lifelong friendships at this wonderful school. Those friendships and relationships I have here at school are what make this decision so difficult."
Mary Chapman wrote a letter of resignation effective May 20th, 2015. She said in her letter that one of her daughters and her husband, in Clarksville (TN), gave birth to a daughter who needed open heart surgery at 4 days old. She will be leaving to be with her daughter and son-in-law, who is currently serving with the 101st Airborne Division in Fort Campbell (KY). "I have truly been blessed to be a part of the Worth County School family for 11 years," Ms. Chapman wrote in her resignation letter. "I have made lifelong friendships at this wonderful school. Those friendships and relationships I have here at school are what make this decision so difficult."
Worth County School Budget Shows $275,424 Surplus
The Worth County School showed a $275,424 surplus according to figures released during the annual audit report presented at the Worth County School Board meeting Thursday. Diane Klostermann said that the reserve ratio is 30% of annual expenditures, which is over the recommended 24%. This means that the school does not have to worry about borrowing money during the critical period from September through November, when money dries up before the new tax revenues come in. The school had more expenses; however, they also had more local revenues thanks in part to increased collections as the economy improves. Total assets are now at $1,354,341, which is one of the highest levels that the school has ever had according to secretary Kandy Sorensen.
Among other findings shown in the report, average daily attendance is down to 303 students this year, down 15 from last year. This is down 103 students from 2007, when average daily attendance was 406.
Among recommendations, transportation information reported on the Application for State Transportation Aid did not agree with detail ridership information provided by the district. Non-disabled riders were overstated by 10 and riders less than one mile were over stated by 7. Eligible non-disabled route miles were overstated by 27,528 miles. The audit recommended the district implement procedures to ensure that accurate information is reported on the application.
Another recommendation focused on hours in session for the school. An early release weather day had not been entered on the Screen 10 Calendar. That entry was corrected.
Two recommendations were made concerning budget documentation regarding anticipated revenues and expenditures.
The actual cash balance in the Debt Service bank account did not agree with the general ledger cash balance from the Debt Service Fund at year end. The audit recommended a physical cash transfer of $2,356.79 from the operating bank account to the Debt Service bank account to balance bank cash to general ledger cash and implement procedures to verify that cash balances in the Debt Service account agree with the general ledger balance on a monthly basis.
The audit noted the district does not have procedures in place to track and report food supplies costs associated with the food service program. As a result of this year's audit, the district was able to identify the food supplies costs associated with the summer food service program and a journal entry was made to reclassify the supplies costs and personnel costs from the regular food service function. The audit recommended the district implement procedures to track food service costs related to this program at the time the expenditures are incurred.
The audit recommended that the school develop a consistent policy for use of the facilities by outside community groups, including fees and fee waiver policies.
Superintendent Dr. Matt Martz evaluated the vocational education program as above average. Strengths listed include the fact that vocational classes are preparing students for ag, business, and FACS. The budget is only 5.5% of the district's budget, while experienced staff was listed as another strength. Concerns regarding the program include scheduling conflicts which force students to take independent study courses, a need for more variety, and a need for more parental and community data. Recommendations include establishing a district level committee with patrons, students, and staff to come up with recommendations.
Brenda Miller of the Library Board came to the board meeting and said that the library board would pledge up to $100,000 for a 20' by 40' expansion of the library. Previously, the project had been tabled in 2012 after bids came in over estimated funds. On the library's wish list based on input from patrons include a children's wing as well as an expanded genealogy wing. The public library and school library received money that was willed to them for the purpose of expanding the library. The current library was built with the possibility of expansion in mind at some future date.
Assistant Principal Chuck Borey reported that there was 94% attendance for the elementary parent teacher conferences. The fourth through sixth grades went to the Duckworth Farm for lessons about soil and water conservation. Kindergarten through third grades went to the WCCC to show off Halloween costumes. Most classes put on special programs for Veterans Day.
Borey and three teachers attended a Student Learning Objectives (SLO) workshop recently. The goal is to assess teacher impact by how they were helping students improve.
Currently, the school has received $740,873 in revenues and has spent $910,432. The figures do not include new tax revenue money that will be received in December.
Superintendent Dr. Matt Martz reported that the school had been conducting a number of committee meetings over the past two months. The Technology Committee held a meeting on October 29th; the school is seeking to add more bandwidth to its present system. The Parent and Community Engagement Committee met on October 9th and discussed whether or not there is a bullying issue at Worth County. Two FCCLA members are doing a project on this topic and will give a report to this committee. The Facilities Committee will have a presentation from Chris Salzman of ConEdison Solutions about energy needs for the school.
Dr. Martz also reported that Worth County teachers attended training with teachers from North Nodaway and West Nodaway on November 10th. The focus of the training was on the development of critical thinking skills in students. The school is seeking a grant for hands-on problem-based science lessons for its students.
The board adopted changes to the financial handbook. The first is in regards to the check policy. The school will now accept out of state checks; previously, the school did not do that. Checks must have the name, address, and phone number as well as the driver's license number. If a check is returned, the school will use a check recovery service to collect on the debt and no further checks will be accepted until the balance is cleared.
In response to the annual audit, the board voted to set a fee schedule for the use of school facilities. Fees must be paid if the organization is not affiliated with the school and the organization will be charging admission or other fees, or if the use is outside of regular custodial hours. Fees may be waived by the superintendent if the activity is free and the majority of the activity is geared towards the PK-12 age group. Fees were set as follows: Classroom -- $10/room; Gym -- $10; Multipurpose -- $5; Kitchen -- $10; Cafeteria -- $10; Stage -- $5.
The board voted to declare 13 tables which were formerly cafeteria tables to be surplus property.
Among other findings shown in the report, average daily attendance is down to 303 students this year, down 15 from last year. This is down 103 students from 2007, when average daily attendance was 406.
Among recommendations, transportation information reported on the Application for State Transportation Aid did not agree with detail ridership information provided by the district. Non-disabled riders were overstated by 10 and riders less than one mile were over stated by 7. Eligible non-disabled route miles were overstated by 27,528 miles. The audit recommended the district implement procedures to ensure that accurate information is reported on the application.
Another recommendation focused on hours in session for the school. An early release weather day had not been entered on the Screen 10 Calendar. That entry was corrected.
Two recommendations were made concerning budget documentation regarding anticipated revenues and expenditures.
The actual cash balance in the Debt Service bank account did not agree with the general ledger cash balance from the Debt Service Fund at year end. The audit recommended a physical cash transfer of $2,356.79 from the operating bank account to the Debt Service bank account to balance bank cash to general ledger cash and implement procedures to verify that cash balances in the Debt Service account agree with the general ledger balance on a monthly basis.
The audit noted the district does not have procedures in place to track and report food supplies costs associated with the food service program. As a result of this year's audit, the district was able to identify the food supplies costs associated with the summer food service program and a journal entry was made to reclassify the supplies costs and personnel costs from the regular food service function. The audit recommended the district implement procedures to track food service costs related to this program at the time the expenditures are incurred.
The audit recommended that the school develop a consistent policy for use of the facilities by outside community groups, including fees and fee waiver policies.
Superintendent Dr. Matt Martz evaluated the vocational education program as above average. Strengths listed include the fact that vocational classes are preparing students for ag, business, and FACS. The budget is only 5.5% of the district's budget, while experienced staff was listed as another strength. Concerns regarding the program include scheduling conflicts which force students to take independent study courses, a need for more variety, and a need for more parental and community data. Recommendations include establishing a district level committee with patrons, students, and staff to come up with recommendations.
Brenda Miller of the Library Board came to the board meeting and said that the library board would pledge up to $100,000 for a 20' by 40' expansion of the library. Previously, the project had been tabled in 2012 after bids came in over estimated funds. On the library's wish list based on input from patrons include a children's wing as well as an expanded genealogy wing. The public library and school library received money that was willed to them for the purpose of expanding the library. The current library was built with the possibility of expansion in mind at some future date.
Assistant Principal Chuck Borey reported that there was 94% attendance for the elementary parent teacher conferences. The fourth through sixth grades went to the Duckworth Farm for lessons about soil and water conservation. Kindergarten through third grades went to the WCCC to show off Halloween costumes. Most classes put on special programs for Veterans Day.
Borey and three teachers attended a Student Learning Objectives (SLO) workshop recently. The goal is to assess teacher impact by how they were helping students improve.
Currently, the school has received $740,873 in revenues and has spent $910,432. The figures do not include new tax revenue money that will be received in December.
Superintendent Dr. Matt Martz reported that the school had been conducting a number of committee meetings over the past two months. The Technology Committee held a meeting on October 29th; the school is seeking to add more bandwidth to its present system. The Parent and Community Engagement Committee met on October 9th and discussed whether or not there is a bullying issue at Worth County. Two FCCLA members are doing a project on this topic and will give a report to this committee. The Facilities Committee will have a presentation from Chris Salzman of ConEdison Solutions about energy needs for the school.
Dr. Martz also reported that Worth County teachers attended training with teachers from North Nodaway and West Nodaway on November 10th. The focus of the training was on the development of critical thinking skills in students. The school is seeking a grant for hands-on problem-based science lessons for its students.
The board adopted changes to the financial handbook. The first is in regards to the check policy. The school will now accept out of state checks; previously, the school did not do that. Checks must have the name, address, and phone number as well as the driver's license number. If a check is returned, the school will use a check recovery service to collect on the debt and no further checks will be accepted until the balance is cleared.
In response to the annual audit, the board voted to set a fee schedule for the use of school facilities. Fees must be paid if the organization is not affiliated with the school and the organization will be charging admission or other fees, or if the use is outside of regular custodial hours. Fees may be waived by the superintendent if the activity is free and the majority of the activity is geared towards the PK-12 age group. Fees were set as follows: Classroom -- $10/room; Gym -- $10; Multipurpose -- $5; Kitchen -- $10; Cafeteria -- $10; Stage -- $5.
The board voted to declare 13 tables which were formerly cafeteria tables to be surplus property.
Friday, November 21, 2014
Obituary -- Shirley Spaah 1940-2014
Shirley Annette (Kemery) Spaah,
daughter of Roland and Merle Kemery was born in Worth, Missouri on
March 19 , 1940 and passed away November 20, 2014 in Albany,
Missouri.
On January 10 , 1960 Shirley
married Jr. Spaah in Worth, Missouri. Jr. passed away in 2008.
Shirley was also preceded in death by her parents, an infant niece
and an infant nephew and brother-in-law John Craven.
Shirley graduated from Grant City
High School and was employed by, the then, Citizens Bank for many
years.
Shirley is survived by her sister,
Veronica “Teddy” Craven, sister Mary Carroll and brother-in-law,
George, her brother, Ronnie Kemery and sister-in-law Lora, one niece
Veronica Jordan, two nephews, Eric Price and Galen Kemery,
great-nephews Quinn, Lane and Lee and one great-niece Eva.
Shirley was a dear and loving
sister and aunt, and a great friend to everyone she met. She will be
greatly missed.
Graveside Services and Interment will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, November 22, 2014 at the Grant City
Cemetery in Grant City. Pastor Janis Roarda officiated. Arrangements
were under the direction of the Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant
City.
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Tiger Boys Win South Nodaway Rematch, Advance to Finals
Worth County's boys won a rematch with South Nodaway 45-30 and advanced to the finals of the Northeast Nodaway Junior High Tournament Wednesday night. The focus of the game was to limit the output of Longhorn standout Taylar Freemyer and force someone else to beat them. They finally shut him down and pulled away late in the first half. After beating Jefferson in another rematch game, 48-16, the win gave the Tigers a ticket to the championship round against likely opponent Maryville.
There were five ties and two lead changes in the first first nine minutes of the game before Bryant McCord hit a shot in the high post following a pass from Caleb Parman to spark an 8-0 run for Worth County to end the half after South Nodaway had tied it at 18. Caleb only had 2 points for the game, but facilitated the Tiger offense by passing the ball around to everyone else; he had a game-high 7 assists. "Assists are more important than points," he said. Bryant, who had been hovering just below double digits for the Tigers, got a career high with 10 for the game.
Issac Alarcon followed by jumping a pass and getting a layup and then Caleb hit him with a backdoor layup; Issac closed with a putback with 16 seconds left. Issac had his usual output, getting 19 points; the focus of the Longhorn defense was to help out and shut him down, but it didn't matter since Caleb and everyone else was getting him the ball down low.
South Nodaway made an adjustment and moved Freemyer from the post position to the wing, where he would have more chances to get open. It worked for a while as he was able to stop the bleeding during much of the second half. But then South Nodaway went to their half court trap with under four minutes left as they needed the ball back down eight. Worth County, however, was able to get loose thanks to the passing of Caleb Parman, who had three of his assists in the fourth quarter as the Tigers scored nine straight points to pull away. The object of a trapping defense is to speed the other team up; however, Worth County responded perfectly and slowed the ball down and found plenty of good transition looks as a result.
There were five ties and two lead changes in the first first nine minutes of the game before Bryant McCord hit a shot in the high post following a pass from Caleb Parman to spark an 8-0 run for Worth County to end the half after South Nodaway had tied it at 18. Caleb only had 2 points for the game, but facilitated the Tiger offense by passing the ball around to everyone else; he had a game-high 7 assists. "Assists are more important than points," he said. Bryant, who had been hovering just below double digits for the Tigers, got a career high with 10 for the game.
Issac Alarcon followed by jumping a pass and getting a layup and then Caleb hit him with a backdoor layup; Issac closed with a putback with 16 seconds left. Issac had his usual output, getting 19 points; the focus of the Longhorn defense was to help out and shut him down, but it didn't matter since Caleb and everyone else was getting him the ball down low.
South Nodaway made an adjustment and moved Freemyer from the post position to the wing, where he would have more chances to get open. It worked for a while as he was able to stop the bleeding during much of the second half. But then South Nodaway went to their half court trap with under four minutes left as they needed the ball back down eight. Worth County, however, was able to get loose thanks to the passing of Caleb Parman, who had three of his assists in the fourth quarter as the Tigers scored nine straight points to pull away. The object of a trapping defense is to speed the other team up; however, Worth County responded perfectly and slowed the ball down and found plenty of good transition looks as a result.
Junior High Tiger Girls Win All Out War; Advance to Finals
After winning handily, 31-13 over Jefferson in the first round, Worth County's junior high girls won an all-out war with Northeast Nodaway 18-16 to get to the championship round of the tournament. Both teams went into the game shorthanded with Northeast playing without Brea Coulter (knee), while Worth County was playing without Regan Allee (hand). Both teams laid it all on the line, with physical play, frequent tieups, and hard fouls the name of the game. Northeast lead for most of the game, but Anna Gladstone would not let Worth County lose, leading the Tigers back to victory in the last few minutes.
Worth County had some chances in the early going, but they missed some easy shots and settled for a 4-2 lead. Haley Hunt had a putback for Worth County and Jessi Badell hit a shot from the wing with 5 seconds left. Northeast countered with a shot from Jaysie Dougan.
Early in the second quarter, Brittany Burns took a shot to the face and left the floor; however, Worth County could not take advantage and Brittany came back with the score still 4-2. When she came back, Brittany hit two baseline shots to put Northeast in the lead and Jaysie Dougan added a pair of free throws to put Northeast on top 8-5. Anna Gladstone finally got on the board with a free throw for Worth County. For Northeast, Brittany Burns and Jaysie Dougan, not normally their main scorers, did all the scoring for the Bluejays.
Anna got a pair of steals for Worth County in the third, but Northeast raised their lead to 16-10 after three. Gerry Runde had two putbacks for Northeast, Brittany Burns hit a shot from the high post after a pass from Adwell, and Makayla Adwell hit from the left wing for Northeast. Brittany got a career high with 6 for the night.
But Worth County picked it up defensively in the final quarter and held Northeast scoreless. Kristen New hit a free throw and Anna Gladstone followed with a steal to make it 16-13. Then, Jessi Badell was there for the putback after Anna ran over Makayla Adwell in an effort to get to the basket; Kristen New found Anna on the right baseline with 1:45 left to put Worth County up 17-16 for one of the few outside shots Worth County would have all night.
Neither side could hand onto the ball for the next 1:31, but Kristen New, battling stomach problems, made the play of the game when she forced a tieup with 14 seconds left to give Worth County the ball back. Northeast tried to press to get the ball back, but Worth County passed it right down the floor and got it to Haley Hunt; she was fouled before she could score and she hit one of two to make it 18-16. Northeast pushed it up the floor for one last shot, but Haley Hunt was there for a steal to preserve the win.
Worth County had some chances in the early going, but they missed some easy shots and settled for a 4-2 lead. Haley Hunt had a putback for Worth County and Jessi Badell hit a shot from the wing with 5 seconds left. Northeast countered with a shot from Jaysie Dougan.
Early in the second quarter, Brittany Burns took a shot to the face and left the floor; however, Worth County could not take advantage and Brittany came back with the score still 4-2. When she came back, Brittany hit two baseline shots to put Northeast in the lead and Jaysie Dougan added a pair of free throws to put Northeast on top 8-5. Anna Gladstone finally got on the board with a free throw for Worth County. For Northeast, Brittany Burns and Jaysie Dougan, not normally their main scorers, did all the scoring for the Bluejays.
Anna got a pair of steals for Worth County in the third, but Northeast raised their lead to 16-10 after three. Gerry Runde had two putbacks for Northeast, Brittany Burns hit a shot from the high post after a pass from Adwell, and Makayla Adwell hit from the left wing for Northeast. Brittany got a career high with 6 for the night.
But Worth County picked it up defensively in the final quarter and held Northeast scoreless. Kristen New hit a free throw and Anna Gladstone followed with a steal to make it 16-13. Then, Jessi Badell was there for the putback after Anna ran over Makayla Adwell in an effort to get to the basket; Kristen New found Anna on the right baseline with 1:45 left to put Worth County up 17-16 for one of the few outside shots Worth County would have all night.
Neither side could hand onto the ball for the next 1:31, but Kristen New, battling stomach problems, made the play of the game when she forced a tieup with 14 seconds left to give Worth County the ball back. Northeast tried to press to get the ball back, but Worth County passed it right down the floor and got it to Haley Hunt; she was fouled before she could score and she hit one of two to make it 18-16. Northeast pushed it up the floor for one last shot, but Haley Hunt was there for a steal to preserve the win.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Semi-Truck Strikes Cow in Accident
Hubert Grinstead (70) of Cameron received minor injuries last Tuesday night after his semi-truck collided with a cow. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2009 International Semi Tractor/Trailer driven by Grinstead was southbound on 169 three miles south of Grant City at around 7:30 pm when he struck the cow. Grinstead lost control, traveled off the east side of the roadway down an embankment, and came to rest on its wheels in a field facing south. He received minor injuries and was taken by ambulance to the Northwest Medical Center in Albany.
Monday, November 17, 2014
Worth County Library to Hold Book Fair
In the library, as part of our Accelerated Reader Program, we had a Read to Feed food drive during the month of October. While the kids were reading, they collected donations from sponsors who pledged a certain number of food items for each book read. Those who participated collected approximately 200 food items, and as a whole, our elementary students read 8,620,142 words during the month of October.
The first week of December (Dec. 1st through 5th), we will be holding our annual book fair. All through the week, we will have special dress-up days and collect loose change. On Medieval Monday, we will collect pennies and students get to wear their favorite "crown." Troubadour Tuesday, we will collect nickels and students will decorate a paper bag inspired by their favorite song or poem. Once Upon a Time Wednesday, students may bring their favorite bedtime story and favorite stuffed animal and dimes to add to our collection. Royal Read Ye Thursday, we are collecting quarters, and students may bring their favorite book and wait for the announcement, "Drop everything and read." On Fairy Tale Friday, students may bring any coins and dress as their favorite fairy tale character.
All of the money collected throughout the week will be used to help build classroom libraries in our school, but for every book we purchase for our classrooms, Scholastic will donate a book to children in need. They have two non-profit groups that will receive donated books, either children who have been affected by natural disaster or children who don't have any books of their own.
The first week of December (Dec. 1st through 5th), we will be holding our annual book fair. All through the week, we will have special dress-up days and collect loose change. On Medieval Monday, we will collect pennies and students get to wear their favorite "crown." Troubadour Tuesday, we will collect nickels and students will decorate a paper bag inspired by their favorite song or poem. Once Upon a Time Wednesday, students may bring their favorite bedtime story and favorite stuffed animal and dimes to add to our collection. Royal Read Ye Thursday, we are collecting quarters, and students may bring their favorite book and wait for the announcement, "Drop everything and read." On Fairy Tale Friday, students may bring any coins and dress as their favorite fairy tale character.
All of the money collected throughout the week will be used to help build classroom libraries in our school, but for every book we purchase for our classrooms, Scholastic will donate a book to children in need. They have two non-profit groups that will receive donated books, either children who have been affected by natural disaster or children who don't have any books of their own.
Worth County Sheriff's Report
11-10 -- Person calls about possible trespass; officer investigates, person had permission to be on property.
11-10 -- Person calls about suspicious item found on property.
11-11 -- Person in with statement about car damage.
11-12 -- Person in to register as sex offender (new).
11-12 -- Person calls about arrest warrant.
11-12 -- Person reports possible breaking at rural building.
11-12 -- Person in for CCP permit.
11-13 -- Resident reports possible domestic problem.
11-13 -- Horse out on Route K; officer investigates.
11-14 -- Person calls about attempted entry to property.
11-14 -- Officer arrests person on Worth County warrant and transports subject to jail.
11-14 -- Calf out on person's property; owner notified.
11-14 -- Resident in to be fingerprinted.
11-14 -- Officer transports person to jail on DUI charges.
11-15 -- Report of several slide-offs in Worth County.
11-15 -- Car vs. deer report by officer; deer was donated.
11-10 -- Person calls about suspicious item found on property.
11-11 -- Person in with statement about car damage.
11-12 -- Person in to register as sex offender (new).
11-12 -- Person calls about arrest warrant.
11-12 -- Person reports possible breaking at rural building.
11-12 -- Person in for CCP permit.
11-13 -- Resident reports possible domestic problem.
11-13 -- Horse out on Route K; officer investigates.
11-14 -- Person calls about attempted entry to property.
11-14 -- Officer arrests person on Worth County warrant and transports subject to jail.
11-14 -- Calf out on person's property; owner notified.
11-14 -- Resident in to be fingerprinted.
11-14 -- Officer transports person to jail on DUI charges.
11-15 -- Report of several slide-offs in Worth County.
11-15 -- Car vs. deer report by officer; deer was donated.
Doin' God's Work -- One Week from Thanksgiving
by Glenda Wyer
Just a week away from Thanksgiving. I can smell the pumpkin pies already! Several have already been preparing feasts as we celebrate the month of gratitude. We really do have so much to thank God for!
The 1st snowfall of this season caught some off guard. I knew it was coming, and yet -- forgot to get snow gear together. Allow extra time to put on more garmets and clear off vehicles. Drive safely.
Next Sunday, November 23rd, will be the All Parish Worship. Sheridan will be hosting it. The new community building will be open to drop off food before coming to church. Worship services will be at 10:30. After worship, we will meet at the Community Building to join in a feast of gratitude. Hopkins and Pickering Council of Churches will be hosting Union services 7 pm November 23rd at Pickering UMC.
At 6:30, November 23rd, Assembly of God will be hosting a Thanksgiving Service in Worth County.
There you have three great opportunities to be spiritually and physically fed. No wonder I smell pumpkin pie; the community is bonding together to give thanks for the many blessings God has given to us. We praise Him for a bountiful harvest!
November 30th will be Hanging of the Greens in Nodaway-Worth Parish to begin the Advent Season. We will learn some of the different traditions and meanings.
Ending November singing songs of praise and gratitude. We will enter a busy Advent season. "Joyful Noise" will have a concert and soup supper December 14th at 3:30.
What makes serving God joyful? When all his servants work together to bring Him all the glory. I am thankful for those who encourage and enable me to serve God and my community. Jesus did not come to be served, but to serve God's people. We are to follow His teachings. Who can you serve today? Give thanks to those who serve you. See you in Sheridan UMC next Sunday, 10:30!
Just a week away from Thanksgiving. I can smell the pumpkin pies already! Several have already been preparing feasts as we celebrate the month of gratitude. We really do have so much to thank God for!
The 1st snowfall of this season caught some off guard. I knew it was coming, and yet -- forgot to get snow gear together. Allow extra time to put on more garmets and clear off vehicles. Drive safely.
Next Sunday, November 23rd, will be the All Parish Worship. Sheridan will be hosting it. The new community building will be open to drop off food before coming to church. Worship services will be at 10:30. After worship, we will meet at the Community Building to join in a feast of gratitude. Hopkins and Pickering Council of Churches will be hosting Union services 7 pm November 23rd at Pickering UMC.
At 6:30, November 23rd, Assembly of God will be hosting a Thanksgiving Service in Worth County.
There you have three great opportunities to be spiritually and physically fed. No wonder I smell pumpkin pie; the community is bonding together to give thanks for the many blessings God has given to us. We praise Him for a bountiful harvest!
November 30th will be Hanging of the Greens in Nodaway-Worth Parish to begin the Advent Season. We will learn some of the different traditions and meanings.
Ending November singing songs of praise and gratitude. We will enter a busy Advent season. "Joyful Noise" will have a concert and soup supper December 14th at 3:30.
What makes serving God joyful? When all his servants work together to bring Him all the glory. I am thankful for those who encourage and enable me to serve God and my community. Jesus did not come to be served, but to serve God's people. We are to follow His teachings. Who can you serve today? Give thanks to those who serve you. See you in Sheridan UMC next Sunday, 10:30!
Friday, November 14, 2014
Jessi Badell Gets 12; Junior High Girls Survive Longhorns
Jessi Badell got a career high with 12 points and Worth County's girls survived a late South Nodaway rally, holding them off 31-25 Thursday night. They also beat Jefferson by 4, and remain with only one loss on the year. Anna Gladstone also had 12 for the Tigers.
The team learned last week that they would be without Regan Allee for the rest of the year (arm). They had to find some outside shooting, and they got it with Jessi's shooting. South Nodaway, a team with nearly all 7th graders, had gone down without a fight against Northeast Nodaway. But Eryn Kemper had the hot hand for South Nodaway to keep them in the game down only 8-6 after one; she had all of their six points. Point guard Kaylin LaMaster was relentlessly pushing it up the floor and creating scoring chances.
Worth County finally started to pull away in the second quarter as Abbi Caddenhead, starting in place of Allee, got a putback and Anna Gladstone scored off a pair of backdoor layups off passes from Jessi Badell and Kristen New. Haley Hunt added a putback and Worth County was up 16-10 at the break.
Both Jessi Badell and Anna Gladstone got going early in the third; Anna's shot from the left wing off a pass from New made it 23-10. But then Hannah Wilmes launched a 3-pointer from the corner and South Nodaway was right back in it, down 23-15 with 1:22 left in the third.
Anna Gladstone scored off a pair of steals to keep Worth County in front 29-17 with 4:52 left, but South Nodaway, with some fouls to give, could afford to be very aggressive down the stretch, cutting Worth County's lead to 29-23 and keeping Worth County scoreless for four minutes. But then they finally had to foul and Jessi Badell hit a free throw with 24.8 seconds left to make it a three possession game at 30-23. Kristen New added another free throw before Wilmes scored a meaningless basket at the buzzer.
The team learned last week that they would be without Regan Allee for the rest of the year (arm). They had to find some outside shooting, and they got it with Jessi's shooting. South Nodaway, a team with nearly all 7th graders, had gone down without a fight against Northeast Nodaway. But Eryn Kemper had the hot hand for South Nodaway to keep them in the game down only 8-6 after one; she had all of their six points. Point guard Kaylin LaMaster was relentlessly pushing it up the floor and creating scoring chances.
Worth County finally started to pull away in the second quarter as Abbi Caddenhead, starting in place of Allee, got a putback and Anna Gladstone scored off a pair of backdoor layups off passes from Jessi Badell and Kristen New. Haley Hunt added a putback and Worth County was up 16-10 at the break.
Both Jessi Badell and Anna Gladstone got going early in the third; Anna's shot from the left wing off a pass from New made it 23-10. But then Hannah Wilmes launched a 3-pointer from the corner and South Nodaway was right back in it, down 23-15 with 1:22 left in the third.
Anna Gladstone scored off a pair of steals to keep Worth County in front 29-17 with 4:52 left, but South Nodaway, with some fouls to give, could afford to be very aggressive down the stretch, cutting Worth County's lead to 29-23 and keeping Worth County scoreless for four minutes. But then they finally had to foul and Jessi Badell hit a free throw with 24.8 seconds left to make it a three possession game at 30-23. Kristen New added another free throw before Wilmes scored a meaningless basket at the buzzer.
JH Tiger Boys Survive First Stiff Challenges of Season
Worth County's junior high boys survived their first stiff challenge of the year, turning back South Nodaway 46-33 Thursday night. The Tigers had trouble in the early going controlling the mobile, athletic Longhorn squad as Taylar Freemyer was able to get to the rim with both his right and left hand, while Tanner Davis also did serious damage for South Nodaway. Worth County fell behind 6-2 in the early going before rallying back; Drake Simmons' guarded 3-pointer late in the first quarter put Worth County back in front 12-8.
From there, South Nodaway never caught Worth County in the second period, but they always kept it close. Freemyer's free throw made it 18-17 with 48.5 seconds left and they got the ball back with a chance to take the lead. But Worth County stole the ball and Bryant McCord, attempting his first 3-pointer all year, got nothing but net. The momentum-swinging play put the Tigers up 21-17.
Leading scorer Issac Alarcon was bottled up in the first half with only six points as Worth County had been trying unsuccessfully to shoot South Nodaway out of their zone, which they had done successfully all year. But Worth County adjusted in the second half, going to Issac in the post first; that adjustment paid off as he got a 3-point play right off the bat off a pass from McCord and a putback. On the other end, Worth County switched from their normal trapping zone to a man to man and held South Nodaway scoreless for the first four minutes of the third quarter. Worth County built up the lead to double digits at 31-19 on Caleb Parman's 3-pointer, but then consecutive 3-pointers from Tanner Davis brought it back to within 31-25 after three.
That opened up Taylar Freemyer to slice to the basket at will twice to make it 31-29 with 4:42 left. The question was how well Worth County would respond to finally having to play a full game, but they responded well. Issac Alarcon would not let the Tigers lose as he answered with a pair of free throws after grabbing an offensive board against the taller Longhorn players. He then added a three-point play after a pass from Caleb Parman and Drake Simmons, diversifying his game, added a layup off a steal and another off a drive to make it 40-29.
For some reason, South Nodaway had not went to their trapping zone all game against Worth County, but they went to it with immediate results, closing to within 40-33 off a Kole Kramer steal. But once again, Issac would not let the Tigers lose as he scored off a drive and Caleb Parman followed with a steal with 51 seconds left to make it 44-33. Issac then got a drive and highlight film reverse 360 and fell to the floor as the ball went in before South Nodaway made a meaningless bucket at the buzzer.
Issac, after being held to 6 in the first half, finished with 20. Drake Simmons had 10 and Caleb Parman 9. The Tigers also beat Jefferson at the Eagles Nest. Worth County fell behind 8-4 after one quarter and 12-6 early in the second before going on a 23-4 run to regain control, leading 29-16. They continued to pull away, outscoring Jefferson 20-2 in the third quarter.
From there, South Nodaway never caught Worth County in the second period, but they always kept it close. Freemyer's free throw made it 18-17 with 48.5 seconds left and they got the ball back with a chance to take the lead. But Worth County stole the ball and Bryant McCord, attempting his first 3-pointer all year, got nothing but net. The momentum-swinging play put the Tigers up 21-17.
Leading scorer Issac Alarcon was bottled up in the first half with only six points as Worth County had been trying unsuccessfully to shoot South Nodaway out of their zone, which they had done successfully all year. But Worth County adjusted in the second half, going to Issac in the post first; that adjustment paid off as he got a 3-point play right off the bat off a pass from McCord and a putback. On the other end, Worth County switched from their normal trapping zone to a man to man and held South Nodaway scoreless for the first four minutes of the third quarter. Worth County built up the lead to double digits at 31-19 on Caleb Parman's 3-pointer, but then consecutive 3-pointers from Tanner Davis brought it back to within 31-25 after three.
That opened up Taylar Freemyer to slice to the basket at will twice to make it 31-29 with 4:42 left. The question was how well Worth County would respond to finally having to play a full game, but they responded well. Issac Alarcon would not let the Tigers lose as he answered with a pair of free throws after grabbing an offensive board against the taller Longhorn players. He then added a three-point play after a pass from Caleb Parman and Drake Simmons, diversifying his game, added a layup off a steal and another off a drive to make it 40-29.
For some reason, South Nodaway had not went to their trapping zone all game against Worth County, but they went to it with immediate results, closing to within 40-33 off a Kole Kramer steal. But once again, Issac would not let the Tigers lose as he scored off a drive and Caleb Parman followed with a steal with 51 seconds left to make it 44-33. Issac then got a drive and highlight film reverse 360 and fell to the floor as the ball went in before South Nodaway made a meaningless bucket at the buzzer.
Issac, after being held to 6 in the first half, finished with 20. Drake Simmons had 10 and Caleb Parman 9. The Tigers also beat Jefferson at the Eagles Nest. Worth County fell behind 8-4 after one quarter and 12-6 early in the second before going on a 23-4 run to regain control, leading 29-16. They continued to pull away, outscoring Jefferson 20-2 in the third quarter.
Monday, November 10, 2014
Late Funeral Notice -- Patricia Ann Son
Patricia Ann Son, 61, of San Jose, CA passed away Wednesday, November 5th at Santa Clara Medical Center. She is a former resident of Grant City and Mount Ayr, daughter of Virginia Stephenson of Grant City. Memorial Services are pending in San Jose and pending later in Grant City. Arrangements are under the direction of Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home.
Second Sheridan Home Destroyed by Fire
A second home in Sheridan has been destroyed by fire in a week. At Saturday night/Sunday morning at around 3 am, Bob Belcher "California Bob" and Gladys Rowe were awakened by their dog barking. Belcher said that he initially thought that his dog simply wanted out, but that he discovered the blaze. He then woke Gladys up and they got out of the house. The Sheridan Fire Department responded within 20 minutes, but by then, it was already too late. The Fire Department elected to put the blaze out instead of letting it burn the house down to the ground so that it would not catch the trees on fire and spread to other houses. The house was the former Betty Dokken residence, where she had lived for many years. It was on the southeast corner of town.
Bob and Gladys credited their dog, Dudley, with saving their lives. "We never would have been alive without him," they said. Bob said that Dudley had been savagely kicked by someone just the week before and that and he had just had surgery at the vet. "The vet didn't think he was going to make it," he said. "I'm not a religious person, but he was kept alive for a reason." Bob said that he believes that the fire was caused by a space heater in the bathroom.
The blaze was so hot that it melted metal and the fire department had a difficult time opening the attic so that they could put it out. The Grant City Fire Department came to assist the Sheridan Fire Department. After the fire crews left, the blaze was so hot that it reignited twice; however, Brad Pickering came by both times to put it out again. As late as Sunday night, the smoke from the blaze could be smelled from across town. It could still be smelled as late as Monday morning.
Bob and Gladys received help from the area Red Cross and are staying at a hotel in Maryville for two nights. They were also given cash so that they could buy clothes and other supplies. They plan to buy a camper and stay in it for the winter where the house was, and then rebuild. They said that people were really good to them after the blaze. Bob said that Victoria Rush, who herself had lost a house to a fire, went out of her way to help show them what they needed to do. Kim Welch came by their hotel room in Maryville with some food; Bob said that she was very helpful as well. The Sheridan CBC will put together a fundraiser at a later date to help Bob and Gladys get back on their feet again.
Bob and Gladys credited their dog, Dudley, with saving their lives. "We never would have been alive without him," they said. Bob said that Dudley had been savagely kicked by someone just the week before and that and he had just had surgery at the vet. "The vet didn't think he was going to make it," he said. "I'm not a religious person, but he was kept alive for a reason." Bob said that he believes that the fire was caused by a space heater in the bathroom.
The blaze was so hot that it melted metal and the fire department had a difficult time opening the attic so that they could put it out. The Grant City Fire Department came to assist the Sheridan Fire Department. After the fire crews left, the blaze was so hot that it reignited twice; however, Brad Pickering came by both times to put it out again. As late as Sunday night, the smoke from the blaze could be smelled from across town. It could still be smelled as late as Monday morning.
Bob and Gladys received help from the area Red Cross and are staying at a hotel in Maryville for two nights. They were also given cash so that they could buy clothes and other supplies. They plan to buy a camper and stay in it for the winter where the house was, and then rebuild. They said that people were really good to them after the blaze. Bob said that Victoria Rush, who herself had lost a house to a fire, went out of her way to help show them what they needed to do. Kim Welch came by their hotel room in Maryville with some food; Bob said that she was very helpful as well. The Sheridan CBC will put together a fundraiser at a later date to help Bob and Gladys get back on their feet again.
Worth County Sheriff's Report
11-3 -- Person from Minnesota wanting a police report.
11-3 -- Report of door open on hunting cabin north of Grant City; officer investigates, all secure.
11-3 -- Insurance company calls for police report.
11-4 -- Worth County resident calls about breakin and dog abuse.
11-5 -- Person in about car damage.
11-5 -- Officer dispatched to 911 call of two women fighting on highway Y.
11-6 -- Franklin County deputy in with inmate for court.
11-6 -- Worth County officer transporting two male inmates to Ringgold County Jail.
11-7 -- Worth County officer transporting prisoner to Department of Corrections in St. Joseph.
11-8 -- Worth County officer investigates trespassing call.
11-8 -- Report of cow out on Route YY.
11-3 -- Report of door open on hunting cabin north of Grant City; officer investigates, all secure.
11-3 -- Insurance company calls for police report.
11-4 -- Worth County resident calls about breakin and dog abuse.
11-5 -- Person in about car damage.
11-5 -- Officer dispatched to 911 call of two women fighting on highway Y.
11-6 -- Franklin County deputy in with inmate for court.
11-6 -- Worth County officer transporting two male inmates to Ringgold County Jail.
11-7 -- Worth County officer transporting prisoner to Department of Corrections in St. Joseph.
11-8 -- Worth County officer investigates trespassing call.
11-8 -- Report of cow out on Route YY.
Sunday, November 9, 2014
NEN Junior High Boys Climb Out of Hole, Beat Falcons
Northeast Nodaway's junior high boys overcame a scoring funk and recovered to beat St. Gregory's 28-13 Friday night. They had lost 72-23 to Worth County the night before; sometimes, when losing like that, it takes some time to get your confidence back. Northeast went scoreless in the first quarter, trailing 3-0 to the Falcons before Chance Barber came off the bench to put them on the board with consecutive shots. Northeast and St. Gregory's played evenly the rest of the half and fought to a 9-9 tie. Barber had 4, Spencer Weir and Reed McIntyre had 2, and Dakota Gross had 1.
For Northeast, the focus in the second half was to get shots to fall and to stop Sean Ottman, who had seven of St. Gregory's nine points in the first half. They succeeded in both counts as Ottman was scoreless in the second half. In the meantime, Northeast finally started to find the range from the field; Spencer Weir's 3-pointer early in the period knocked the lid off the basket and set the tone for the rest of the game. Colton Wilmes, Dakota Auffert, and Chance Barber each had 2 as Northeast led 18-10 after three.
Northeast finally pulled away in the fourth after Mason Walk tried to rally the Falcons, cutting their deficit to 20-13 with a free throw with 4:40 left. With Northeast leading 22-13, Nathan Schieber came off the bench to supply the dagger, going coast to coast for a layup. Spencer Weir added a steal off the press and Schieber hit Maverick Price to make it 28-13.
Northeast had a balanced attack for the game. Spencer Weir led the scoring with 9 for Northeast. Chance Barber had 8, Dakota Gross had 3, and Maverick Price, Spencer Weir, Reed McIntyre, and Colton Wilmes all had 2 each as coach Jared Freemyer's troops had seven in the scoring column.
For Northeast, the focus in the second half was to get shots to fall and to stop Sean Ottman, who had seven of St. Gregory's nine points in the first half. They succeeded in both counts as Ottman was scoreless in the second half. In the meantime, Northeast finally started to find the range from the field; Spencer Weir's 3-pointer early in the period knocked the lid off the basket and set the tone for the rest of the game. Colton Wilmes, Dakota Auffert, and Chance Barber each had 2 as Northeast led 18-10 after three.
Northeast finally pulled away in the fourth after Mason Walk tried to rally the Falcons, cutting their deficit to 20-13 with a free throw with 4:40 left. With Northeast leading 22-13, Nathan Schieber came off the bench to supply the dagger, going coast to coast for a layup. Spencer Weir added a steal off the press and Schieber hit Maverick Price to make it 28-13.
Northeast had a balanced attack for the game. Spencer Weir led the scoring with 9 for Northeast. Chance Barber had 8, Dakota Gross had 3, and Maverick Price, Spencer Weir, Reed McIntyre, and Colton Wilmes all had 2 each as coach Jared Freemyer's troops had seven in the scoring column.
Makayla Adwell Gets 11 as NEN Junior High Girls Down Falcons
Makayla Adwell knocked down 11 points as Northeast Nodaway's junior high girls got back on the winning track with a 23-8 win over St. Gregory's. They had to contain a dangerous left-hander, Addison Hall; however, they never led her get going for the Falcons and held her scoreless. They were playing the second of back to back meetings; after losing 28-24 to Worth County the night before, they successfully put it behind them and picked up their game defensively to get the win.
Adwell started it off by getting to the rim early, getting a 3-point play and picking up 5 in the first quarter as Northeast led 9-2 after one. Gerry Runde added four as she rebounded well on the offensive end. Makayla, who had been battling foul trouble all year, stayed on the floor all game this time, only picking up one foul.
Gerry Runde, Makayla Adwell, and Maggie Schmitz all picked up two each in the second quarter as Northeast continued to pull away and led 15-4 at the break. Adwell had two assists in the period and Brea Coulter had one.
Jaysie Dougan came off the bench and had three assists for Northeast in the second half, constantly finding the open person to stifle any Falcon comeback attempts. She was increasingly aggressive on defense as well; if she gets more confidence in her shot, she will become a force for Northeast in future years. Makayla Adwell had 4 and Gerry Runde and Maggie Schmitz had 2 each.
For Northeast, Makayla Adwell had 11, more than the entire Falcon squad. Gerry Runde added 8 and Maggie Schmitz had 4.
Adwell started it off by getting to the rim early, getting a 3-point play and picking up 5 in the first quarter as Northeast led 9-2 after one. Gerry Runde added four as she rebounded well on the offensive end. Makayla, who had been battling foul trouble all year, stayed on the floor all game this time, only picking up one foul.
Gerry Runde, Makayla Adwell, and Maggie Schmitz all picked up two each in the second quarter as Northeast continued to pull away and led 15-4 at the break. Adwell had two assists in the period and Brea Coulter had one.
Jaysie Dougan came off the bench and had three assists for Northeast in the second half, constantly finding the open person to stifle any Falcon comeback attempts. She was increasingly aggressive on defense as well; if she gets more confidence in her shot, she will become a force for Northeast in future years. Makayla Adwell had 4 and Gerry Runde and Maggie Schmitz had 2 each.
For Northeast, Makayla Adwell had 11, more than the entire Falcon squad. Gerry Runde added 8 and Maggie Schmitz had 4.
Dewey Carr Building Showcases Allendale History at Open House
The Dewey Carr building showcased all sorts of history from the City of Allendale during the recent Allendale Open House Saturday. The building was restored by Brad and Mark Carr and has now been turned into a museum. On display Saturday were all sorts of family pictures, advertising signs, and other memorabilia. One piece of history was an 1881 copy of the Mineral Springs Gazette, which was Allendale's newspaper at the time. It was named that because there was a mineral spring a quarter of a mile north of Allendale which is still there today. There were four such springs in the area; the one in Siloam Springs was the best-known. However, there were two others in Denver and the one just north of Allendale which advertised in the Mineral Springs paper.
The Mineral Springs bath house was reputed to have medical properties. It was run by a board which included President T.J. Smith, Secretary Calvin Tilton, Secretary O.C. Dawson, Treasurer William McElvain, and board members J.A. Hunt, R.P. Wilkinson, and Lewis Campbell. The ones in Denver were the Shadora Mineral Spring along with the Denver Mineral Well. Dawson also ran the dry goods store, where he sold muslins, wool jeans, tweeds, cashmeres, cottonades, denims, ducks, chevoits, and flannels as advertised in the Gazette.
Back then, news was two weeks old and subscriptions cost $1.50 per year. The editor was W.H. Conn; the paper held forth on the assassination of James Garfield; he had just died of his wounds. Other favorite topics were advice on marriage as well as the evils of liquor and the futility of trying to marry someone in the hopes that they would change their drinking habits.
One of the most common advertisements in the paper were those for drugs which would supposedly cure just about anything. One such advertisement was for Perry Davis' painkiller, which could supposedly treat rheumatism, neuralgia, cramps, chlorea, diarreha, sprains, bruises, burns, scalds, toothache, and headache. There were plenty of other ads as well. Lindsay Addington's Livery and Feed Stable from Grant City advertised. L.F. Hammer advertised groceries, tobaccos, and cigars. W.C. Jones had a drug store.
Among other memorabilia were signs for various products such as Hines Root Beer and Fire Chief Gasoline. One sign advertised Pepsi for 5 cents, saying that it had more bounce to the ounce. Even back in those days, Pepsi was trying to target people with the younger view of things. There was an old cookbook from the J.R. Weddle family, model train sets, and a set of David Melville Pewter which was a cookware set made in Rhode Island sometime between 1776 and 1793.
Numerous other businesses and organizations participated in the Allendale Open House. The Pool Hall did a raffle for a t-shirt and a tenderloin dinner. Mike's Garage served homemade cider from a machine; you just pushed a button and it would dispense hot homemade apple cider a few minutes later. Also on display was a jeep with a corvette engine. Oldtowne served free cinnamon rolls, a cookie, and coffee. Hannahbear gave 10% off on all purchases that day. Mary Kay's Quilting raffled off a Christmas Throw. The Allendale Baptist church served cookies. Civili-Tea had standing room only for much of the day and all the tables were completely full. A group of ladies came up from Albany and had a previously planned tea party as scheduled; they did not mind the huge crowds who showed up.
The Mineral Springs bath house was reputed to have medical properties. It was run by a board which included President T.J. Smith, Secretary Calvin Tilton, Secretary O.C. Dawson, Treasurer William McElvain, and board members J.A. Hunt, R.P. Wilkinson, and Lewis Campbell. The ones in Denver were the Shadora Mineral Spring along with the Denver Mineral Well. Dawson also ran the dry goods store, where he sold muslins, wool jeans, tweeds, cashmeres, cottonades, denims, ducks, chevoits, and flannels as advertised in the Gazette.
Back then, news was two weeks old and subscriptions cost $1.50 per year. The editor was W.H. Conn; the paper held forth on the assassination of James Garfield; he had just died of his wounds. Other favorite topics were advice on marriage as well as the evils of liquor and the futility of trying to marry someone in the hopes that they would change their drinking habits.
One of the most common advertisements in the paper were those for drugs which would supposedly cure just about anything. One such advertisement was for Perry Davis' painkiller, which could supposedly treat rheumatism, neuralgia, cramps, chlorea, diarreha, sprains, bruises, burns, scalds, toothache, and headache. There were plenty of other ads as well. Lindsay Addington's Livery and Feed Stable from Grant City advertised. L.F. Hammer advertised groceries, tobaccos, and cigars. W.C. Jones had a drug store.
Among other memorabilia were signs for various products such as Hines Root Beer and Fire Chief Gasoline. One sign advertised Pepsi for 5 cents, saying that it had more bounce to the ounce. Even back in those days, Pepsi was trying to target people with the younger view of things. There was an old cookbook from the J.R. Weddle family, model train sets, and a set of David Melville Pewter which was a cookware set made in Rhode Island sometime between 1776 and 1793.
Numerous other businesses and organizations participated in the Allendale Open House. The Pool Hall did a raffle for a t-shirt and a tenderloin dinner. Mike's Garage served homemade cider from a machine; you just pushed a button and it would dispense hot homemade apple cider a few minutes later. Also on display was a jeep with a corvette engine. Oldtowne served free cinnamon rolls, a cookie, and coffee. Hannahbear gave 10% off on all purchases that day. Mary Kay's Quilting raffled off a Christmas Throw. The Allendale Baptist church served cookies. Civili-Tea had standing room only for much of the day and all the tables were completely full. A group of ladies came up from Albany and had a previously planned tea party as scheduled; they did not mind the huge crowds who showed up.
Doin' God's Work -- Bountiful Harvest
by Glenda Wyer
The Lord surely has blessed the corn crops. Everywhere there seems to be a pile waiting to go out in shipment to feed the nation. Praise God! I know many were concerned due to the weather at the time of planting. May our faith continue to grow through the miracles God does.
November is the one month we tend to show the most gratitude. Family traditions of a feast is one way many show their thankfulness.
I've heard some mention they were thankful election commercials ended. My job is to be thankful they had the courage to campaign and pray they can make a difference for God's glory. I believe in the power of prayer and it can change the direction our leaders take to transform us as one nation under God.
We gather at church at 3:30 Wednesday afternoons to pray and sing some praises; it makes a difference in our lives as well as those around us. Due to cold weather last winter, we had to take a break. I pray we will be blessed and able to serve him in every season, joyfully.
At Conference, each church was partnered with another congregation with the purpose of prayer and to encourage them. Grant City was partnered with Burlington Junction, Hopkins with Clearmont, Ravenwood with Burr Oak, Pickering with Skidmore and Wilcox, and Sheridan with Parnell. May teaming with them help us learn how to pray for their ministries.
Travis was at the pulpit this Sunday. Next week in the gratitude series, we will study about our community and public servants. Let us be thankful for their services. I am very thankful the water department was able to repair a broken main to restore what we come to take for granted. How many people do we take for granted on a daily basis? Take time to let them know they are appreciated for their sacrifices they make to serve God, country, and community. May God bless those who serve, to stay safe and healthy.
I wouldn't know where to begin counting my blessings. Join us at church and we can count them together. See you in church!
The Lord surely has blessed the corn crops. Everywhere there seems to be a pile waiting to go out in shipment to feed the nation. Praise God! I know many were concerned due to the weather at the time of planting. May our faith continue to grow through the miracles God does.
November is the one month we tend to show the most gratitude. Family traditions of a feast is one way many show their thankfulness.
I've heard some mention they were thankful election commercials ended. My job is to be thankful they had the courage to campaign and pray they can make a difference for God's glory. I believe in the power of prayer and it can change the direction our leaders take to transform us as one nation under God.
We gather at church at 3:30 Wednesday afternoons to pray and sing some praises; it makes a difference in our lives as well as those around us. Due to cold weather last winter, we had to take a break. I pray we will be blessed and able to serve him in every season, joyfully.
At Conference, each church was partnered with another congregation with the purpose of prayer and to encourage them. Grant City was partnered with Burlington Junction, Hopkins with Clearmont, Ravenwood with Burr Oak, Pickering with Skidmore and Wilcox, and Sheridan with Parnell. May teaming with them help us learn how to pray for their ministries.
Travis was at the pulpit this Sunday. Next week in the gratitude series, we will study about our community and public servants. Let us be thankful for their services. I am very thankful the water department was able to repair a broken main to restore what we come to take for granted. How many people do we take for granted on a daily basis? Take time to let them know they are appreciated for their sacrifices they make to serve God, country, and community. May God bless those who serve, to stay safe and healthy.
I wouldn't know where to begin counting my blessings. Join us at church and we can count them together. See you in church!
Allendale Baptist Church Building to Mark 125th Year
The Allendale Baptist Church building, long a landmark in Allendale, will mark its 125th anniversary next year. It was built in 1890 and 2015 will mark its 125th year. The congregation itself was formed in 1870 and worshiped in a log cabin where the Allendale Cemetery is now. After that building was destroyed by fire, the present church building was built. A pamphlet supplied by the church recounts some of the history of the church and building.
Charter members were Rev. & Mrs. P.W. Jones, Mrs. Calvin Tilton, Mrs. Teena Calhoon, Mr. & Mrs. R.H. Miner, Mr. & Mrs. H.W. Conn, and George Gray. The church grew to 25 members by 1880 and 56 by 1885. The present building was constructed on land given in deed of trust from Joseph and Minerva Hammer to William Calhoon for the church. The building was designed and built by a Rev. Campbell and a Rev. Miller, two evangelists who traveled and held revivals.
For a time during the early 1900's, the congregation did not meet; however, the church was reorganized on February 29, 1928. Rev. W.A. Hyde was moderator; charter members were Myrtle Hammer, Mr. & Mrs. George Monk, Mable Fletchall, Mrs. Orral Campbell, Mrs. Della Hobbs, Harry R. Long, John Tilton, Mr. & Mrs. Marvin Findley, and Lola Murray. Starting in 1944, the church expanded over the next several decades, adding classrooms, a baptistery, stained glass windows, a kitchen, dining, and rec area, a library, and an auditorium.
Among interesting facts about the church supplied in the church pamphlet, P.W. Jones, the first pastor, was the great-grandfather of Mrs. Garland Roach. The pastor's salary in 1903 was $174.74 annually. The church once shared the north side with a blacksmith shop, a scale house, and a meat market. The first funeral held at the church was in August 1893 for Charles Calhoun, father of Ruth McFadden and brother of Sarah Sims. The first musical instrument was from a reed organ gifted by the A.L. Conn family. There was a Ladies Aid society; women would do quilting to raise money for the church. During the first nice spring day, people would ride on hay wagons to a place north of what is now the Allendale Cemetery for a picnic. The church was heated by a stove; W.D. Combs would come for years carrying a sack of corn cobs to light the fire so that people would be warm when they arrived. Later, Marvin Findley did it.
New converts were baptized in the Grand River "near the old red bridge towards the Ed Glenn Farm." For many years, from 1941 to 1977, the organist was Ruth McFadden. The church has been big on youth activities for many years; they had a VBS last summer which was well attended.
Charter members were Rev. & Mrs. P.W. Jones, Mrs. Calvin Tilton, Mrs. Teena Calhoon, Mr. & Mrs. R.H. Miner, Mr. & Mrs. H.W. Conn, and George Gray. The church grew to 25 members by 1880 and 56 by 1885. The present building was constructed on land given in deed of trust from Joseph and Minerva Hammer to William Calhoon for the church. The building was designed and built by a Rev. Campbell and a Rev. Miller, two evangelists who traveled and held revivals.
For a time during the early 1900's, the congregation did not meet; however, the church was reorganized on February 29, 1928. Rev. W.A. Hyde was moderator; charter members were Myrtle Hammer, Mr. & Mrs. George Monk, Mable Fletchall, Mrs. Orral Campbell, Mrs. Della Hobbs, Harry R. Long, John Tilton, Mr. & Mrs. Marvin Findley, and Lola Murray. Starting in 1944, the church expanded over the next several decades, adding classrooms, a baptistery, stained glass windows, a kitchen, dining, and rec area, a library, and an auditorium.
Among interesting facts about the church supplied in the church pamphlet, P.W. Jones, the first pastor, was the great-grandfather of Mrs. Garland Roach. The pastor's salary in 1903 was $174.74 annually. The church once shared the north side with a blacksmith shop, a scale house, and a meat market. The first funeral held at the church was in August 1893 for Charles Calhoun, father of Ruth McFadden and brother of Sarah Sims. The first musical instrument was from a reed organ gifted by the A.L. Conn family. There was a Ladies Aid society; women would do quilting to raise money for the church. During the first nice spring day, people would ride on hay wagons to a place north of what is now the Allendale Cemetery for a picnic. The church was heated by a stove; W.D. Combs would come for years carrying a sack of corn cobs to light the fire so that people would be warm when they arrived. Later, Marvin Findley did it.
New converts were baptized in the Grand River "near the old red bridge towards the Ed Glenn Farm." For many years, from 1941 to 1977, the organist was Ruth McFadden. The church has been big on youth activities for many years; they had a VBS last summer which was well attended.
Friday, November 7, 2014
Junior High Tiger Girls Beat Win Total from Last Year
Worth County's junior high girls beat their win total from last year after holding off Northeast Nodaway 28-24 Thursday night. The Tigers also beat King City as they raised their record to 4-1 for the year. They did so despite playing without Kennedy Galanakis (ankle) and Regan Allee (arm). Abbi Caddenhead saw extended playing time for the Tigers, starting and playing much of the game. And Haley Hunt and Merrideth Spiers combined to shut down Gerry Runde, holding her to 2 points for the night. That offset a season high 13 points from Makayla Adwell.
Jessi Badell hit a shot just before the first quarter buzzer to put Worth County up 5-3; they built it up to 8-3 early in the second before leading scorer Anna Gladstone went out with three fouls. Northeast came back behind consecutive steals from Adwell to tie it at 8; she picked up her 3rd foul at the 2:43 mark, but Northeast elected to leave her in. The gamble paid off as Northeast was able to take the lead at halftime. Jaysie Dougan came off the bench to hit her first junior high points at the buzzer to put them up 15-12.
But Worth County started the second half off strongly as Jessi Badell got behind the Northeast defense after a steal from Anna Gladstone. Anna then outmuscled Gerry Runde for a loose ball and Kristen New got behind the defense to put Worth County back in front 16-15. And then Badell connected again off a pass from Kristen New to make it 18-15. It was a lead that Worth County would not relinquish.
The teams traded buckets for the rest of the way. Brittany Burns hit from the baseline for Northeast to make it 26-24, but Kristen New came up big as she went coast to coast with 3:26 to put Worth County up two possessions at 28-24. After Worth County got the ball back, they held the ball for two minutes, all the way down to 25 seconds to preserve the win. Jessi Badell and Kristen New had 10 each to lead the Tigers. Anna Gladstone had 6, while Haley Hunt had 2. For Northeast, Makayla Adwell had 13 points. Brittany Burns had 3 while Brea Coulter, Jaysie Dougan, Gerry Runde, and Maggie Schmitz had 2 each.
Jessi Badell hit a shot just before the first quarter buzzer to put Worth County up 5-3; they built it up to 8-3 early in the second before leading scorer Anna Gladstone went out with three fouls. Northeast came back behind consecutive steals from Adwell to tie it at 8; she picked up her 3rd foul at the 2:43 mark, but Northeast elected to leave her in. The gamble paid off as Northeast was able to take the lead at halftime. Jaysie Dougan came off the bench to hit her first junior high points at the buzzer to put them up 15-12.
But Worth County started the second half off strongly as Jessi Badell got behind the Northeast defense after a steal from Anna Gladstone. Anna then outmuscled Gerry Runde for a loose ball and Kristen New got behind the defense to put Worth County back in front 16-15. And then Badell connected again off a pass from Kristen New to make it 18-15. It was a lead that Worth County would not relinquish.
The teams traded buckets for the rest of the way. Brittany Burns hit from the baseline for Northeast to make it 26-24, but Kristen New came up big as she went coast to coast with 3:26 to put Worth County up two possessions at 28-24. After Worth County got the ball back, they held the ball for two minutes, all the way down to 25 seconds to preserve the win. Jessi Badell and Kristen New had 10 each to lead the Tigers. Anna Gladstone had 6, while Haley Hunt had 2. For Northeast, Makayla Adwell had 13 points. Brittany Burns had 3 while Brea Coulter, Jaysie Dougan, Gerry Runde, and Maggie Schmitz had 2 each.
Worth County Junior High Boys Now 5-0
Worth County's Junior High boys are now 5-0 following wins over King City and Northeast Nodaway this week. Issac Alarcon scored 17 points for the Tigers as they beat Northeast Nodaway 72-23 Thursday night; he added 5 assists as he continues to maintain an average of around 20 points per game. Worth County continues to progress towards a potential showdown with Maryville in the Northeast Nodaway Tournament in a couple of weeks; last year, Maryville spoiled Worth County's bid for an unbeaten season in junior high in the first round. This year, if it happens, the potential showdown would take place in the championship round Saturday, November 22nd at 7:00.
What looked like an interesting matchup early in the season went by the wayside; Northeast has now dropped four games after a promising start. Worth County stole the ball at will in the first quarter; Issac Alarcon had 7 points, Caleb Parman had 5, and Drake Simmons and Bryant McCord had 4 each as Worth County was jumping passes at will. Northeast tried to press Worth County, but the Tigers sliced through it at will, treating it like it was not there. Worth County led 20-2 after one, prompting some folks from Northeast to hit the exits and go home.
Issac Alarcon added six more in the second quarter and Jacob New came alive in the period, leading the Tigers with 8 points. Bryant McCord and Drake Simmons added two each as Worth County went ahead 38-7 at the break. For Northeast at the half, Spencer Weir had 3 and Colton Wilmes and Dakota Gross had 2 each.
Worth County went on to pour on 27 points in the third period. Issac Alarcon had four in the period and added four assists as he was airing it out at will for the Tigers. Jacob New had 7 for the Tigers and finished with a career high 15 points for the night, continuing to show his new-found scoring punch. Caleb Parman added 6 and ended with 11 for the night, although he wound up one point short of his girlfriend's (NEN guard Makayla Adwell's) total. Bryant McCord had 2 to finish with 8 for the Tigers; Drake Simmons had 8 in the period to finish with 14. Worth County had four people in double figures for the night.
The fourth quarter was dominated by the reserves as Tanner Parman did most of the scoring for Worth County while Chance Barber did most of the scoring for Northeast.
What looked like an interesting matchup early in the season went by the wayside; Northeast has now dropped four games after a promising start. Worth County stole the ball at will in the first quarter; Issac Alarcon had 7 points, Caleb Parman had 5, and Drake Simmons and Bryant McCord had 4 each as Worth County was jumping passes at will. Northeast tried to press Worth County, but the Tigers sliced through it at will, treating it like it was not there. Worth County led 20-2 after one, prompting some folks from Northeast to hit the exits and go home.
Issac Alarcon added six more in the second quarter and Jacob New came alive in the period, leading the Tigers with 8 points. Bryant McCord and Drake Simmons added two each as Worth County went ahead 38-7 at the break. For Northeast at the half, Spencer Weir had 3 and Colton Wilmes and Dakota Gross had 2 each.
Worth County went on to pour on 27 points in the third period. Issac Alarcon had four in the period and added four assists as he was airing it out at will for the Tigers. Jacob New had 7 for the Tigers and finished with a career high 15 points for the night, continuing to show his new-found scoring punch. Caleb Parman added 6 and ended with 11 for the night, although he wound up one point short of his girlfriend's (NEN guard Makayla Adwell's) total. Bryant McCord had 2 to finish with 8 for the Tigers; Drake Simmons had 8 in the period to finish with 14. Worth County had four people in double figures for the night.
The fourth quarter was dominated by the reserves as Tanner Parman did most of the scoring for Worth County while Chance Barber did most of the scoring for Northeast.
Fire Destroys Home North of Sheridan
A fire destroyed a home north of Sheridan Thursday evening. Fire Chief Butch Thomas reported that Sheridan fire units were called to the former Dean Owens residence, near Bob Finch's old Christmas tree farm between 6:30 and 7 that evening. The home was a new structure that had been built 30 years ago. Grant City units also assisted with the blaze, but by the time they got there, it was too late to save the structure. Thomas said that the cause was a chimney fire that got out of control. There were no injuries in the blaze.
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Grant City Strategic Plan Seeks More Activities for Community
The rough draft of the Strategic Planning document for Grant City came together at Wednesday night's meeting. Emphasis was on more things for the community to do. Facilitator Arnie Kreek of the Northwest Missouri Regional Council of Governments will put together another draft based on comments and input at Wednesday night's meeting to present to the Grant City Council at their regular meeting on November 19th.
All five teams turned in suggested areas of focus at the meeting. One area of focus was municipal services. Wastewater upgrades were identified as a need for the community, possibly in conjunction with USDA and other funding sources. The second area of focus was the streets. The plan includes researching grants to include curbing and drainage and generating more revenues for street improvements. Currently, part of the city sales tax goes towards street improvements, but that is not enough. Law enforcement was another area of focus. The goal is to get more law enforcement coverage for the city and possibly neighborhood watch groups as well.
For physical appearance and aesthetic value, the goal for the city is to codify city ordinances so that they will pass muster in court and so that they are enforceable and in compliance with state law. The second goal will be to continue to work with the regional improvement board, which will meet again in the first part of December. The third was to keep and expand the "Worth More" initiative, possibly by assisting elderly people with cleanup and putting up lights. Finally, the fourth goal was to pursue demolition grants to tear down abandoned buildings. Also on the agenda were recognizing people who do clean up their homes, focusing on junk cars, and promoting general cleanup.
For education and cultural arts, one goal was to give people access to more educational and learning opportunities, advertise them, and identify potential funding sources. The second goal is more access to cultural arts by maintaining the cultural arts committee, doing more promotions, and identifying funding sources. The third was to find more venue space for cultural events, get cost estimates, and identify funding sources.
For community and business development, goals were to update the business directory regularly, do more business promotions such as Small Business Saturday, and expand the current city cleanup initiatives. A third goal is to assist new businesses in getting started, while the fourth is to find a new location for Mission Possible.
For parks and youth recreation, goals were putting together events for the recently-completed nature trail, putting together more activities such as an Easter Egg Hunt, a scavenger hunt, coed softball, volleyball tournaments, and golf tournaments. The ultimate goal is to build a youth recreation center at some point.
All five teams turned in suggested areas of focus at the meeting. One area of focus was municipal services. Wastewater upgrades were identified as a need for the community, possibly in conjunction with USDA and other funding sources. The second area of focus was the streets. The plan includes researching grants to include curbing and drainage and generating more revenues for street improvements. Currently, part of the city sales tax goes towards street improvements, but that is not enough. Law enforcement was another area of focus. The goal is to get more law enforcement coverage for the city and possibly neighborhood watch groups as well.
For physical appearance and aesthetic value, the goal for the city is to codify city ordinances so that they will pass muster in court and so that they are enforceable and in compliance with state law. The second goal will be to continue to work with the regional improvement board, which will meet again in the first part of December. The third was to keep and expand the "Worth More" initiative, possibly by assisting elderly people with cleanup and putting up lights. Finally, the fourth goal was to pursue demolition grants to tear down abandoned buildings. Also on the agenda were recognizing people who do clean up their homes, focusing on junk cars, and promoting general cleanup.
For education and cultural arts, one goal was to give people access to more educational and learning opportunities, advertise them, and identify potential funding sources. The second goal is more access to cultural arts by maintaining the cultural arts committee, doing more promotions, and identifying funding sources. The third was to find more venue space for cultural events, get cost estimates, and identify funding sources.
For community and business development, goals were to update the business directory regularly, do more business promotions such as Small Business Saturday, and expand the current city cleanup initiatives. A third goal is to assist new businesses in getting started, while the fourth is to find a new location for Mission Possible.
For parks and youth recreation, goals were putting together events for the recently-completed nature trail, putting together more activities such as an Easter Egg Hunt, a scavenger hunt, coed softball, volleyball tournaments, and golf tournaments. The ultimate goal is to build a youth recreation center at some point.
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Four New Members Inducted Into Grant City Lions
Four new members were inducted into the Grant City Lions Club by 1st Vice District Governor Therran Gaines at the regular meeting Tuesday. They were Dagwood Gentleman, J.W. Harding, Josh Hager, and Jesse Stark. The Lions Club has gained members this year even as membership has declined in the district. Bill Calhoon was recognized for sponsoring new members into the club.
All members are asked to bring two cans of food to their next meeting to help with the national organization's food drive for the centennial in 2017. Also, there will be a centennial service challenge, which will involve club members doing numerous acts of service during their centennial week. Grant City's club is marking its 35th anniversary; it was founded in 1979.
The Grant City club recently made a donation to the Leader Dog program, which gives guide dogs to blind people. Gaines gave a talk about his recent visit to their headquarters in Rochester, MN, where they are in the process of building new kennells. He said that he was led blindfolded by a dog and that it felt like he was going really fast. One lady's dog has gotten to the point where she can tell it what room to go to and the dog will take here there. On one occassion, the dog remembered a room from a hotel from one year ago perfectly.
A leadership training forum will be held in Branson in February. The district meeting has been set for March 13th to 14th.
All members are asked to bring two cans of food to their next meeting to help with the national organization's food drive for the centennial in 2017. Also, there will be a centennial service challenge, which will involve club members doing numerous acts of service during their centennial week. Grant City's club is marking its 35th anniversary; it was founded in 1979.
The Grant City club recently made a donation to the Leader Dog program, which gives guide dogs to blind people. Gaines gave a talk about his recent visit to their headquarters in Rochester, MN, where they are in the process of building new kennells. He said that he was led blindfolded by a dog and that it felt like he was going really fast. One lady's dog has gotten to the point where she can tell it what room to go to and the dog will take here there. On one occassion, the dog remembered a room from a hotel from one year ago perfectly.
A leadership training forum will be held in Branson in February. The district meeting has been set for March 13th to 14th.
Junior High Tiger Boys Post 3rd Running Clock Win in Three Tries
Worth County's Junior High basketball team posted its third running clock win in three tries as they beat North Harrison 50-8 Monday night. Issac Alarcon scored the first 10 points of the game on his way to 22 points for the night, keeping up his 20 points per game average. He scored off three steals, an inside shot off a pass from Bryant McCord, and a drive. Drake Simmons scored off a Caleb Parman steal and Jacob New hit a 3-pointer off another pass from Caleb as Worth County led 15-0 after one.
The Tigers got sloppy in the second, doing too much hacking and fouling, but still managed to outscore North Harrison to lead 26-7 at the half. Issac Alarcon added five more off a putback, a drive against three defenders, and a free throw. Jacob New and Drake Simmons added 3-pointers for Worth County.
Bryant McCord got on a scoring burst in the third quarter, cutting twice to the basket for easy layups and getting behind the defense on another play. Issac Alarcon scored seven in the period as Caleb Parman was stealing the ball at will and getting him the ball. Drake Simmons added four and Caleb Parman and Jacob New three each as Worth County led 49-7 after three before the reserves played out the final quarter. Tanner Parman scored a free throw to lead the reserves.
The Tigers got sloppy in the second, doing too much hacking and fouling, but still managed to outscore North Harrison to lead 26-7 at the half. Issac Alarcon added five more off a putback, a drive against three defenders, and a free throw. Jacob New and Drake Simmons added 3-pointers for Worth County.
Bryant McCord got on a scoring burst in the third quarter, cutting twice to the basket for easy layups and getting behind the defense on another play. Issac Alarcon scored seven in the period as Caleb Parman was stealing the ball at will and getting him the ball. Drake Simmons added four and Caleb Parman and Jacob New three each as Worth County led 49-7 after three before the reserves played out the final quarter. Tanner Parman scored a free throw to lead the reserves.
Merrideth Spiers Sparks Junior High Tigers to 2nd Win
Worth County's girls were locked in a tight defensive struggle with North Harrison and leading 7-2 midway through the second quarter when Merrideth Spiers came off the bench to spark the Tigers on both ends of the floor. She got behind the defense and got a pass from Kristen New and added a putback to make it 11-2. She then found Liz Lyle on the wing; Liz, who didn't realize how wide open she was, hesitated for a second and then knocked down the wide open shot. Regan Allee scored a shot from the left wing after shaking off her defender to put Worth County up 15-2.
A swarming Tiger defense took over from there as North Harrison burned two timeouts early in the third quarter as they could not get the ball up the floor against Worth County's pressure. Anna Gladstone, who led the Tigers with 9, knocked down two shots; Liz Lyle hit Navada Hoff on the left wing and then found a cutting Jessi Badell; Jessi then added a running 3-pointer right before the third quarter buzzer to put Worth County up 26-5. Ashlyn Barnett added a 3-pointer, Anna Gladstone scored off a pass from Kaylee McElvain, and Anna hit Kristen New as Worth County pulled away to a 33-9 win.
A swarming Tiger defense took over from there as North Harrison burned two timeouts early in the third quarter as they could not get the ball up the floor against Worth County's pressure. Anna Gladstone, who led the Tigers with 9, knocked down two shots; Liz Lyle hit Navada Hoff on the left wing and then found a cutting Jessi Badell; Jessi then added a running 3-pointer right before the third quarter buzzer to put Worth County up 26-5. Ashlyn Barnett added a 3-pointer, Anna Gladstone scored off a pass from Kaylee McElvain, and Anna hit Kristen New as Worth County pulled away to a 33-9 win.
Monday, November 3, 2014
Birth -- Lennox Joseph Wagers
Rusanna and Benjamin Joseph Wagers of Savannah announce the birth of their son, Lennox Joseph, Friday October 31st at Heartland Hospital. He weighted 8 pounds 9 ounces and 19" tall. He joins his big sister, Aubrey Nicole.
Paternal grandparents are Marsha and Randall Wagers. Maternal grandparents are Ed Morrow and Cindy and Daryl Owens. Maternal great-grandmother is Virginia Robinson of Grant City and the late Z. Ruth Dugdale. Aunt Stephanie Parman of Hatfield and a host of cousins, aunts, and uncles are excited to spoil the little man.
Paternal grandparents are Marsha and Randall Wagers. Maternal grandparents are Ed Morrow and Cindy and Daryl Owens. Maternal great-grandmother is Virginia Robinson of Grant City and the late Z. Ruth Dugdale. Aunt Stephanie Parman of Hatfield and a host of cousins, aunts, and uncles are excited to spoil the little man.
Doin' God's Work -- Gratitude
I hope everyone found good use of the extra hour when we lost Daylight Savings Time. We may change all the clocks in the house but our mental clock.
As we begin a new series of gratitude and giving, we are reminded of so many who have helped, encouraged, and trusted to be good stewards of God. Some are blessed to have strong Christian family values to pass His light to. With the season of Thanksgiving, if you have someone who made a special impact on your life, remember; time is short, be sure to let them know. We are "just a vapor," so don't hesitate; it can make a difference in their lives too. I have been blessed by so many!
I attended Dorrilla Hawk's birthday party. There were many who wished her a happy, healthy long life. I am sure she has been a blessing to many! May God continue to bless her to enjoy the fruits of her labor.
A busy week, thanking God and those who ventured out to support church events. The ladies worked hard to have a good Lord's Acre Day and Election Dinner. Thanks for all who attended and may their vote make a difference for the betterment of all mankind.
Making a difference has been the purpose for "Ben's Stockings of Hope." If you'd like to help them, they will be meeting 12-4 November 9th at Hopkins.
Grant City SWAG youth activity will be November 9th at 4. One never knows who you may encourage with the youth. Other opportunities with "Joyful Noise" and "Hopkins Sparks" can change a child's life. Keep them in prayer.
Next Sunday, we will be honoring our veterans, military, and leaders still serving our nation. Freedom is not free. If you encounter a veteran, give them thanks. November 11th is one day set aside to honor and remember their sacrifices. As with my feelings for Thanksgiving, it should not just be a one day a year event. We need to thank God every day for the blessings He has given us. Some are not happy with the way things are in the USA, but I believe they are better than a lot of other countries. I'm thankful to be here.
November 23rd, 10:30, All Parish Worship at Sheridan UMC. We will gather together for worship, then travel to the New Community Building for the pot luck feast and give thanks. Mark your calendars!
As we congregate in large or small crowds, give God thanks. See you in church!
As we begin a new series of gratitude and giving, we are reminded of so many who have helped, encouraged, and trusted to be good stewards of God. Some are blessed to have strong Christian family values to pass His light to. With the season of Thanksgiving, if you have someone who made a special impact on your life, remember; time is short, be sure to let them know. We are "just a vapor," so don't hesitate; it can make a difference in their lives too. I have been blessed by so many!
I attended Dorrilla Hawk's birthday party. There were many who wished her a happy, healthy long life. I am sure she has been a blessing to many! May God continue to bless her to enjoy the fruits of her labor.
A busy week, thanking God and those who ventured out to support church events. The ladies worked hard to have a good Lord's Acre Day and Election Dinner. Thanks for all who attended and may their vote make a difference for the betterment of all mankind.
Making a difference has been the purpose for "Ben's Stockings of Hope." If you'd like to help them, they will be meeting 12-4 November 9th at Hopkins.
Grant City SWAG youth activity will be November 9th at 4. One never knows who you may encourage with the youth. Other opportunities with "Joyful Noise" and "Hopkins Sparks" can change a child's life. Keep them in prayer.
Next Sunday, we will be honoring our veterans, military, and leaders still serving our nation. Freedom is not free. If you encounter a veteran, give them thanks. November 11th is one day set aside to honor and remember their sacrifices. As with my feelings for Thanksgiving, it should not just be a one day a year event. We need to thank God every day for the blessings He has given us. Some are not happy with the way things are in the USA, but I believe they are better than a lot of other countries. I'm thankful to be here.
November 23rd, 10:30, All Parish Worship at Sheridan UMC. We will gather together for worship, then travel to the New Community Building for the pot luck feast and give thanks. Mark your calendars!
As we congregate in large or small crowds, give God thanks. See you in church!
Worth County Sheriff's Report
10-27 -- Person in for sex offender registration.
10-27 -- Officer transports inmate from jail for court.
10-27 -- Adult protective worker in office.
10-28 -- Officer and DFS worker out on investigation.
10-29 -- Officer and DFS out on investigation.
10-30 -- Person calls about items taken in breakin.
10-31 -- Officer investigating car vandalism.
10-31 -- Officer working funeral traffic.
10-31 -- Person in to pickup break-in items that were recovered.
10-31 -- Report of cattle out on 46 east; owner notified.
10-27 -- Officer transports inmate from jail for court.
10-27 -- Adult protective worker in office.
10-28 -- Officer and DFS worker out on investigation.
10-29 -- Officer and DFS out on investigation.
10-30 -- Person calls about items taken in breakin.
10-31 -- Officer investigating car vandalism.
10-31 -- Officer working funeral traffic.
10-31 -- Person in to pickup break-in items that were recovered.
10-31 -- Report of cattle out on 46 east; owner notified.
Gerry Runde Gets 20; NEN Junior High Girls Win 2nd
Gerry Runde got 20 points for the Northeast Nodaway Junior High girls as they picked up their second win of the year, a 40-20 win over South Nodaway. Northeast, with only seven players, had struggled to finish off games; however, they finally got on the winning track with a 40-4 win over Union Star followed by Thursday night's win over the Longhorns.
The Bluejay post player was able to seal at will on the South Nodaway defenders and got going early, getting six points in the first quarter. Makayla Adwell added five more as Northeast led 11-1 after one quarter. South Nodaway tried to make a run at Northeast, getting back to within 15-7 early in the second. But Makayla's putback killed the rally and Gerry got going again, scoring off an Adwell steal and a backdoor layup off a pass from Makayla to make it 21-7. Gerry had 10 in the period; Maggie Schmitz got on the board with two, and Makayla had 2 as Northeast led 25-11 at the break.
South Nodaway opened the third by scoring the first four points, making it 25-15. But Maggie Schmitz got going, scoring the next five points; Gerry Runde added a putback and Makayla Adwell got a backdoor layup off a pass from Gerry and a free throw to put Northeast back in control at 35-15. Maggie Schmitz and Gerry Runde had 2 each and Makayla Adwell added 1 as Northeast was able to preserve their lead. For Northeast, Makayla Adwell added 11 and Maggie Schmitz 9 in the winning effort.
The boys, after winning their first four, dropped their next two games, to North Andrew and South Nodaway. Against the Longhorns, they struggled to break their half-court trap. They led most of the way, but they never seemed in control of the game. Finally, they lost the lead and the game, falling to the Longhorns 32-28. Colton Wilmes had his best game of the year, getting 15 in the losing effort.
The Bluejay post player was able to seal at will on the South Nodaway defenders and got going early, getting six points in the first quarter. Makayla Adwell added five more as Northeast led 11-1 after one quarter. South Nodaway tried to make a run at Northeast, getting back to within 15-7 early in the second. But Makayla's putback killed the rally and Gerry got going again, scoring off an Adwell steal and a backdoor layup off a pass from Makayla to make it 21-7. Gerry had 10 in the period; Maggie Schmitz got on the board with two, and Makayla had 2 as Northeast led 25-11 at the break.
South Nodaway opened the third by scoring the first four points, making it 25-15. But Maggie Schmitz got going, scoring the next five points; Gerry Runde added a putback and Makayla Adwell got a backdoor layup off a pass from Gerry and a free throw to put Northeast back in control at 35-15. Maggie Schmitz and Gerry Runde had 2 each and Makayla Adwell added 1 as Northeast was able to preserve their lead. For Northeast, Makayla Adwell added 11 and Maggie Schmitz 9 in the winning effort.
The boys, after winning their first four, dropped their next two games, to North Andrew and South Nodaway. Against the Longhorns, they struggled to break their half-court trap. They led most of the way, but they never seemed in control of the game. Finally, they lost the lead and the game, falling to the Longhorns 32-28. Colton Wilmes had his best game of the year, getting 15 in the losing effort.
Anna Gladstone Leads Junior High Girls to Victory
Anna Gladstone, playing in her first ever junior high game, led Worth County's girls to a 25-22 victory over North Nodaway last week. Anna had 11, Jessi Badell and Kristen New had 4, and Haley Hunt, Kennedy Galanakis, and Regan Allee had 2 each in the win over a good Mustang squad. Worth County built up a 12-4 lead in the first half. From there on out, they had trouble keeping standout post Ashley Thompson off the boards. However, they held her off just well enough to win. North Nodaway got the game as close as one point, but they could never catch Worth County.
North Nodaway spent the whole half chipping away at the Tiger lead and finally got it to within 21-20 on Keagan O'Riley's shot from the baseline with a defender all over her. Haley Hunt beat the press for her only two points of the game to make it 23-20 with 56 seconds left, but North Nodaway rushed right back down the floor and got a basket from MaKayla Cross to make it 23-22. The Mustangs had to foul, and they put Jessi Badell on the line, but she made both her free throws with 17.2 seconds left to make it 25-22.
The Mustangs brought the ball up the floor in an effort to tie with a 3-pointer, but Regan Allee got a steal and Worth County was able to run out the clock for the victory. The girls subsequently dropped a game against Stanberry by the running clock against one of the top teams in the area to fall to 1-1 on the year.
North Nodaway spent the whole half chipping away at the Tiger lead and finally got it to within 21-20 on Keagan O'Riley's shot from the baseline with a defender all over her. Haley Hunt beat the press for her only two points of the game to make it 23-20 with 56 seconds left, but North Nodaway rushed right back down the floor and got a basket from MaKayla Cross to make it 23-22. The Mustangs had to foul, and they put Jessi Badell on the line, but she made both her free throws with 17.2 seconds left to make it 25-22.
The Mustangs brought the ball up the floor in an effort to tie with a 3-pointer, but Regan Allee got a steal and Worth County was able to run out the clock for the victory. The girls subsequently dropped a game against Stanberry by the running clock against one of the top teams in the area to fall to 1-1 on the year.
Issac Alarcon Gets 18; Junior High Tigers Down Mustangs 55-2
Issac Alarcon scored 18 points and the Worth County Junior High basketball team won their first game 55-2 last week over North Nodaway. The Tigers went on to pick up another running clock victory over Stanberry; Issac added 22 and is running an average of 20 points per game through two games. Drake Simmons added a scoring burst to get the Tigers going early. In the first quarter, Issac had 9 points, Drake Simmons 8, and Jacob New, showing some newfound offensive punch added 5. Bryant McCord added 2 as the Tigers led 22-0 after one quarter against the overmatched Mustangs. The Tigers had been working against tough teams all summer and the hard work is paying off. Issac added three assists in the period; he had 7 for the game.
Issac added two more in the second period, Bryant McCord and Tanner Parman added two each as Worth County preserved the shutout, leading 30-0 at halftime.
Tyler Bix's putback early in the third quarter broke the shutout for North Nodaway, but Worth County's momentum continued as Caleb Parman, who had been scoreless in the first half, had 8 in the third quarter. Drake Simmons added 5 points in the period to finish with 13 for the night. Issac Alarcon had 4, and Jacob New had 2. Worth County led 49-2 after three. Jacob New, Issac Alarcon, and Tanner Parman had 2 each in the fourth quarter.
Issac added two more in the second period, Bryant McCord and Tanner Parman added two each as Worth County preserved the shutout, leading 30-0 at halftime.
Tyler Bix's putback early in the third quarter broke the shutout for North Nodaway, but Worth County's momentum continued as Caleb Parman, who had been scoreless in the first half, had 8 in the third quarter. Drake Simmons added 5 points in the period to finish with 13 for the night. Issac Alarcon had 4, and Jacob New had 2. Worth County led 49-2 after three. Jacob New, Issac Alarcon, and Tanner Parman had 2 each in the fourth quarter.
Sunday, November 2, 2014
Editorial -- Discipline Problems for Football Team
Normally, we write about the teams and the players. But unfortunately, the story in Worth County's season-ending 84-66 loss to North-West Nodaway is not about the teams and the players. The Tigers set a dubious school record to end their season when they gave up a school record in points allowed. The previous record was 75, in a 75-6 debacle against Cameron back in 1971. They set another dubious mark as well, posting their first losing season since 1993, a span of 21 years. They ended their season at 3-6.
The Tigers had seven players sit out the first half for disciplinary reasons. A combination of starters who weren't involved in the disciplinary incident and reserves battled gamely against North-West, even managing to take a lead at one point, driving down the field early to take an 8-6 lead. But North-West's passing game asserted itself as they took a 44-24 lead at halftime. The seven suspended players returned for the second half, but the damage was done; Worth County never got closer than two possessions and North-West's offensive juggernaut kept right on clicking. Worth County did better than they did the first time against the Muskets, but they could not buy a stop when they needed to and lost.
We're not blaming anybody for what happened this year. And we're not singling anyone out, because what happened is a team thing and a community thing. But there are serious discipline problems that need to be addressed by the school, the community (including ourselves), the parents, and the players. We have been following Worth County sports for over 30 years, and we have never seen so many players miss playing time due to disciplinary action.
Somehow, we as a community have failed our players. We had a very informative class with Mike Thomson, now our State Representative. He taught our Education Psychology class at Northwest Missouri State. One of the things he taught was that sometimes, we inadvertently send the wrong message out to our students. For instance, if a well-meaning teacher seeks to reward students with treats from Ms. Grinch and Ms. Grinch is well-known to the students as an awful cook, that is actually punishment, not a reward. The students might act up just to avoid having to scarf down the awful slop.
Somehow, we are communicating to our students that it is OK to disregard team and school rules. It all starts with the person in the mirror -- we may think nobody is watching, but it might turn out that we have numerous eyes on us whom we didn't know were there. We have to take personal responsibility and look at our actions and see how they might be affecting our young players.
The school has an obligation to prevent these sorts of situations before they happen. From personal experience, we student taught one time at Worth County. What we found is that when we set boundaries and were consistent about them, the kids got better at following them as time progressed. If the school and coaching staff feels something is important, then the kids will pick up on that. If the school and coaching staff feels something is not important, then the kids will pick up on that as well.
A few years ago, a group of Worth County students did a study on teen drinking. The results were startling -- most teens they interviewed admitted that teen drinking is a problem in Worth County. There were numerous attitudes that led to that -- like the belief that my daddy drank and my granddaddy drank when they were little and it didn't hurt them, so why should it hurt me? That is a common attitude that they found.
The students involved said that the best way to change attitudes was not preaching -- but showing why it inappropriate for teens to be drinking alcohol. There have been scientific studies done which show that the human brain does not develop fully until it is 25. For someone to drink alcohol at an early age inhibits brain development. And one of the last parts of the brain to develop is the part which establishes the relationship between actions and consequences. That is why, for instance, we see teens make strange decisions sometimes that we would never understand as adults. There is also a reason why teens should not be in the presence of alcohol -- because they are vulnerable to peer pressure which could induce them to drink even if that was not their original intent. And given that alcohol inhibits brain development in teens, it therefore follows that it will inhibit athletic performance as well, particularly decision-making on the field.
Being a minor in possession of alcohol has legal consequences -- the first offense can be a $300 fine in the State of Missouri. A second or subsequent offense can be 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Prospective employers will ask on employment application forms if you have been convicted of a crime and they will be much less likely to hire you as a result. In their eyes, someone who has alcohol-related offenses on their record might be more likely to be drunk on the job, which can lead to termination. Insurance companies will raise rates for minors in possession of alcohol.
In light of this, the school needs to do alcohol prevention activities for all students -- not just the athletes -- on a regular and ongoing basis, along with other safety lessons such as seat belt usage, drug avoidance, and driving safety. Students need to know the reasons behind the rules when the reasons behind the rules are not self-evident -- like come to practice every day. Many of us are mistrustful of authority -- that is why we declared independence from King George. But when we understand why rules are in place, then we are more likely to follow them. The community, towns, and churches need to engage in an ongoing effort to provide safe places for our kids to hang out. The current Grant City Strategic Planning sessions have seen some good conversations on what more the city can do to provide activities for our youth. We went to Hopkins twice to watch their team play this year; in both cases, the community held a 5th quarter for their kids after the game where they could relax and unwind.
Each of us needs to look at the example we are setting for kids. Are we saying one thing and doing another? Kids can see hypocrisy in adults from a mile away. If we lecture kids about avoiding tobacco while we happily puff away, how does that convince kids not to smoke? Parents have an obligation to supervise their kids and know where they are at all times. When he was Presiding Commissioner, the late Kevin Austin encountered something that was deeply disturbing while campaigning against teen drinking -- he encountered parents who thought that the Hy-Vee parking lot in Grant City was a perfect babysitter for their kids because they knew where they were at.
When we student taught at Worth County, one of the things that long-time principal Dale Healy was very strict about with his teachers, ourselves included, was that we had to supervise our students at all times, even when it was not comfortable or convenient for us. If we didn't, that was when trouble started. And if people are aware of a teen party going on, they have a responsibility to call law enforcement -- it is against the law for anyone under 21 to purchase or consume alcohol. Sheriff Terry Sheddrick cannot be everywhere; he needs phone tips from the public in order to act. If it takes several calls, then it would be worth it.
And our students need to be able to police each other. Coach Chris Healy can't be expected to patrol all over the county and all over Ravenwood and Parnell looking for potential teen parties with football players. The players need to be able to step up and tell each other, "We don't do that sort of thing on this team," whenever someone is about to step out of line. Peer pressure is just as effective of a weapon as adult supervision.
And finally, our athletes need to understand that certain teams are good year in and year out for a reason -- their players understand that being an athlete means that you represent the team 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. That is why Jefferson's girls just won another state softball title. That is why Stanberry has had only one losing season in football since 1996. That is why Claude Samson's teams won over 1,200 games and six state titles during his tenure at Northeast Nodaway. That means constantly working at your craft and watching others play and staying in shape. It means setting priorities -- valuing family, school, and your craft over such things as girls (or boys), cell phones, Facebook, or some other newfangled gadget that Bill Gates can invent to keep people enthralled.
In previous years, Worth County might have been able to get away with this lack of discipline from its football team. There were usually only a few games in which they had to bring their best game; the rest were usually halftime blowouts. But now, the playing field has ramped up considerably. Newcomers Albany and Rock Port are powerhouses, finishing second and third in the 275 respectively. North-West Nodaway rewrote the recordbook in the passing department. The playing field was so tough this year that even Nodaway-Holt, which only won two games this year, came up with a surprise haymaker over Mound City during the regular season and threw a scare into Rock Port after falling behind 28-0, only losing 28-22. And Tarkio, whom Worth County beat in a halftime game, proceeded to throw a scare into Rock Port, leading them 12-0 at halftime before falling 16-12 in districts. The playing field has gotten significantly stronger in the 275 and in Eight Man football in general -- South Nodaway beat Mound City 34-0 in the regular season and managed to last the whole game against Albany in districts, losing 84-42. If Worth County is to regain its spot at the top of the field, their players will have to ramp up their game and make a year-round commitment. Coach Chris Healy can make them a better team during the course of the season -- the team got better during the season even with all the adversity they dealt with. But the players have to decide that they want to make this program work regardless of who the coach is.
The Tigers had seven players sit out the first half for disciplinary reasons. A combination of starters who weren't involved in the disciplinary incident and reserves battled gamely against North-West, even managing to take a lead at one point, driving down the field early to take an 8-6 lead. But North-West's passing game asserted itself as they took a 44-24 lead at halftime. The seven suspended players returned for the second half, but the damage was done; Worth County never got closer than two possessions and North-West's offensive juggernaut kept right on clicking. Worth County did better than they did the first time against the Muskets, but they could not buy a stop when they needed to and lost.
We're not blaming anybody for what happened this year. And we're not singling anyone out, because what happened is a team thing and a community thing. But there are serious discipline problems that need to be addressed by the school, the community (including ourselves), the parents, and the players. We have been following Worth County sports for over 30 years, and we have never seen so many players miss playing time due to disciplinary action.
Somehow, we as a community have failed our players. We had a very informative class with Mike Thomson, now our State Representative. He taught our Education Psychology class at Northwest Missouri State. One of the things he taught was that sometimes, we inadvertently send the wrong message out to our students. For instance, if a well-meaning teacher seeks to reward students with treats from Ms. Grinch and Ms. Grinch is well-known to the students as an awful cook, that is actually punishment, not a reward. The students might act up just to avoid having to scarf down the awful slop.
Somehow, we are communicating to our students that it is OK to disregard team and school rules. It all starts with the person in the mirror -- we may think nobody is watching, but it might turn out that we have numerous eyes on us whom we didn't know were there. We have to take personal responsibility and look at our actions and see how they might be affecting our young players.
The school has an obligation to prevent these sorts of situations before they happen. From personal experience, we student taught one time at Worth County. What we found is that when we set boundaries and were consistent about them, the kids got better at following them as time progressed. If the school and coaching staff feels something is important, then the kids will pick up on that. If the school and coaching staff feels something is not important, then the kids will pick up on that as well.
A few years ago, a group of Worth County students did a study on teen drinking. The results were startling -- most teens they interviewed admitted that teen drinking is a problem in Worth County. There were numerous attitudes that led to that -- like the belief that my daddy drank and my granddaddy drank when they were little and it didn't hurt them, so why should it hurt me? That is a common attitude that they found.
The students involved said that the best way to change attitudes was not preaching -- but showing why it inappropriate for teens to be drinking alcohol. There have been scientific studies done which show that the human brain does not develop fully until it is 25. For someone to drink alcohol at an early age inhibits brain development. And one of the last parts of the brain to develop is the part which establishes the relationship between actions and consequences. That is why, for instance, we see teens make strange decisions sometimes that we would never understand as adults. There is also a reason why teens should not be in the presence of alcohol -- because they are vulnerable to peer pressure which could induce them to drink even if that was not their original intent. And given that alcohol inhibits brain development in teens, it therefore follows that it will inhibit athletic performance as well, particularly decision-making on the field.
Being a minor in possession of alcohol has legal consequences -- the first offense can be a $300 fine in the State of Missouri. A second or subsequent offense can be 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Prospective employers will ask on employment application forms if you have been convicted of a crime and they will be much less likely to hire you as a result. In their eyes, someone who has alcohol-related offenses on their record might be more likely to be drunk on the job, which can lead to termination. Insurance companies will raise rates for minors in possession of alcohol.
In light of this, the school needs to do alcohol prevention activities for all students -- not just the athletes -- on a regular and ongoing basis, along with other safety lessons such as seat belt usage, drug avoidance, and driving safety. Students need to know the reasons behind the rules when the reasons behind the rules are not self-evident -- like come to practice every day. Many of us are mistrustful of authority -- that is why we declared independence from King George. But when we understand why rules are in place, then we are more likely to follow them. The community, towns, and churches need to engage in an ongoing effort to provide safe places for our kids to hang out. The current Grant City Strategic Planning sessions have seen some good conversations on what more the city can do to provide activities for our youth. We went to Hopkins twice to watch their team play this year; in both cases, the community held a 5th quarter for their kids after the game where they could relax and unwind.
Each of us needs to look at the example we are setting for kids. Are we saying one thing and doing another? Kids can see hypocrisy in adults from a mile away. If we lecture kids about avoiding tobacco while we happily puff away, how does that convince kids not to smoke? Parents have an obligation to supervise their kids and know where they are at all times. When he was Presiding Commissioner, the late Kevin Austin encountered something that was deeply disturbing while campaigning against teen drinking -- he encountered parents who thought that the Hy-Vee parking lot in Grant City was a perfect babysitter for their kids because they knew where they were at.
When we student taught at Worth County, one of the things that long-time principal Dale Healy was very strict about with his teachers, ourselves included, was that we had to supervise our students at all times, even when it was not comfortable or convenient for us. If we didn't, that was when trouble started. And if people are aware of a teen party going on, they have a responsibility to call law enforcement -- it is against the law for anyone under 21 to purchase or consume alcohol. Sheriff Terry Sheddrick cannot be everywhere; he needs phone tips from the public in order to act. If it takes several calls, then it would be worth it.
And our students need to be able to police each other. Coach Chris Healy can't be expected to patrol all over the county and all over Ravenwood and Parnell looking for potential teen parties with football players. The players need to be able to step up and tell each other, "We don't do that sort of thing on this team," whenever someone is about to step out of line. Peer pressure is just as effective of a weapon as adult supervision.
And finally, our athletes need to understand that certain teams are good year in and year out for a reason -- their players understand that being an athlete means that you represent the team 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. That is why Jefferson's girls just won another state softball title. That is why Stanberry has had only one losing season in football since 1996. That is why Claude Samson's teams won over 1,200 games and six state titles during his tenure at Northeast Nodaway. That means constantly working at your craft and watching others play and staying in shape. It means setting priorities -- valuing family, school, and your craft over such things as girls (or boys), cell phones, Facebook, or some other newfangled gadget that Bill Gates can invent to keep people enthralled.
In previous years, Worth County might have been able to get away with this lack of discipline from its football team. There were usually only a few games in which they had to bring their best game; the rest were usually halftime blowouts. But now, the playing field has ramped up considerably. Newcomers Albany and Rock Port are powerhouses, finishing second and third in the 275 respectively. North-West Nodaway rewrote the recordbook in the passing department. The playing field was so tough this year that even Nodaway-Holt, which only won two games this year, came up with a surprise haymaker over Mound City during the regular season and threw a scare into Rock Port after falling behind 28-0, only losing 28-22. And Tarkio, whom Worth County beat in a halftime game, proceeded to throw a scare into Rock Port, leading them 12-0 at halftime before falling 16-12 in districts. The playing field has gotten significantly stronger in the 275 and in Eight Man football in general -- South Nodaway beat Mound City 34-0 in the regular season and managed to last the whole game against Albany in districts, losing 84-42. If Worth County is to regain its spot at the top of the field, their players will have to ramp up their game and make a year-round commitment. Coach Chris Healy can make them a better team during the course of the season -- the team got better during the season even with all the adversity they dealt with. But the players have to decide that they want to make this program work regardless of who the coach is.
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