Under county ordinances, people cannot park their vehicles along county right of way for more than 48 hours. The man was asked to leave by Sheriff Sheddrick last Tuesday. He had been parked in the substation driveway and had periodically gone to Casey’s in Bedford to fill up his truck and get donuts as he was awaiting a call for the last four days.
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Suspicious Truck North of Sheridan was Jobseeker
The suspicious black pickup last week which triggered multiple calls to Sheriff Terry Sheddrick was seeking a job at the Michel Foods Plant in Lenox. He was located at the substation on the Iowa State Line near Route H.
Under county ordinances, people cannot park their vehicles along county right of way for more than 48 hours. The man was asked to leave by Sheriff Sheddrick last Tuesday. He had been parked in the substation driveway and had periodically gone to Casey’s in Bedford to fill up his truck and get donuts as he was awaiting a call for the last four days.
Under county ordinances, people cannot park their vehicles along county right of way for more than 48 hours. The man was asked to leave by Sheriff Sheddrick last Tuesday. He had been parked in the substation driveway and had periodically gone to Casey’s in Bedford to fill up his truck and get donuts as he was awaiting a call for the last four days.
Worth County Sheriff's Report
6-20 – 911 hangup call; no location.
6-20 – Officer investigating report of mail theft.
6-20 – 911 open line call; callback; was dialed by mistake.
6-21 – Person calls about possible IRS phone scam.
6-21 – Officer transports to hospital, mental health division.
6-22 – Officer working court duty.
6-22 – Person needs ID/OD on vehicle.
6-23 – Person calls about suspicious car at a residence in Worth County; officer investigating; person visiting.
6-23 – Resident needs ID/OD on homemade trailer.
6-23 – Residents in to turn in a found debit card.
6-24 – Person calls about shooting fireworks in Grant City; referred to City Hall.
6-24 – Officer investigating domestic disturbance call.
6-24 – Officer transports one male to Ringgold County Jail; charges pending.
6-20 – Officer investigating report of mail theft.
6-20 – 911 open line call; callback; was dialed by mistake.
6-21 – Person calls about possible IRS phone scam.
6-21 – Officer transports to hospital, mental health division.
6-22 – Officer working court duty.
6-22 – Person needs ID/OD on vehicle.
6-23 – Person calls about suspicious car at a residence in Worth County; officer investigating; person visiting.
6-23 – Resident needs ID/OD on homemade trailer.
6-23 – Residents in to turn in a found debit card.
6-24 – Person calls about shooting fireworks in Grant City; referred to City Hall.
6-24 – Officer investigating domestic disturbance call.
6-24 – Officer transports one male to Ringgold County Jail; charges pending.
Monday, June 27, 2016
Obituary -- Delbert Jackson 1925-2016
John Delbert Jackson, second son of Clifford and Sarah Ethel Hunt Jackson, was born at Jackson Corner in RInggold County, Iowa on October 21, 1925. He died in Clearview Home, Mt. Ayr, Iowa on June 26, 2016 after a struggle with cancer.
Delbert attended grade school at Rose Hill and graduated from Mt. Ayr High School in 1944. He volunteered to enter the U.S. Army and was attached to the 3rd Army, 94th Infantry Division, Company A, arriving in Europe in time to participate in the Battle of the Bulge and the liberation of Europe. Delbert was wounded while serving in Germany and among other citations he received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his courage, determination and devotion to duty.
When he returned to the U.S. he married Hazel Ruckman December 15, 1949. Until Delbert’s declining health necessitated their move to town he and Hazel spent their lives on their farm north of Allendale, Missouri and lived in the house built by his great grandfather, James Jackson. They raised their four children in this home: William Delbert, Susan Lynn, Michael Alan, and John Jay.
Delbert was preceded in death by his parents; son, Bill; sisters Evelyn James, Opal Barnett, Dorothy Jensen, and Mary Faith who died in infancy; and his brothers James Jackson and Joe Jackson.
In addition to his wife and children Delbert is survived by eight grandchildren: Levi and Dari Trujillo, Brooke, Karin and Drew Jackson, and Amy, Adam, and Alex (Valentina) Jackson; and his sister Sally (Chuck) Sedgewick.
In addition to his family and farming activities Delbert was very active in community projects including Allendale Community Betterment activities. He was a regular volunteer in the Allendale 4th of July activities and the Allendale Rodeo. Delbert organized the construction of the Veteran’s Memorial on the court house lawn in Grant City, Missouri. He was a member of the Grant City Lions Club and the Grant City VFW #3123. He was a Hospice volunteer and delivered Meals on Wheels. Over his lifetime he donated gallons of blood in local blood drives. Delbert was always on the go. He enjoyed being with friends, family gatherings, auctions and traveling. He never met a stranger. Delbert was an avid reader, loved playing dominoes, especially the game 42, croquet and cards. He will be greatly missed by all.
Visitation will be Friday, July 1 from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. and funeral services will be held on July 2, 2016 at 10:00 A.M. all at the Watson-Armstrong Funeral Home in Mount Ayr, Iowa. Burial will be at Hickory Grove Cemetery. Memorials are to the Allendale Community Betterment and HCI Care Services in Mount Ayr.
Delbert attended grade school at Rose Hill and graduated from Mt. Ayr High School in 1944. He volunteered to enter the U.S. Army and was attached to the 3rd Army, 94th Infantry Division, Company A, arriving in Europe in time to participate in the Battle of the Bulge and the liberation of Europe. Delbert was wounded while serving in Germany and among other citations he received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his courage, determination and devotion to duty.
When he returned to the U.S. he married Hazel Ruckman December 15, 1949. Until Delbert’s declining health necessitated their move to town he and Hazel spent their lives on their farm north of Allendale, Missouri and lived in the house built by his great grandfather, James Jackson. They raised their four children in this home: William Delbert, Susan Lynn, Michael Alan, and John Jay.
Delbert was preceded in death by his parents; son, Bill; sisters Evelyn James, Opal Barnett, Dorothy Jensen, and Mary Faith who died in infancy; and his brothers James Jackson and Joe Jackson.
In addition to his wife and children Delbert is survived by eight grandchildren: Levi and Dari Trujillo, Brooke, Karin and Drew Jackson, and Amy, Adam, and Alex (Valentina) Jackson; and his sister Sally (Chuck) Sedgewick.
In addition to his family and farming activities Delbert was very active in community projects including Allendale Community Betterment activities. He was a regular volunteer in the Allendale 4th of July activities and the Allendale Rodeo. Delbert organized the construction of the Veteran’s Memorial on the court house lawn in Grant City, Missouri. He was a member of the Grant City Lions Club and the Grant City VFW #3123. He was a Hospice volunteer and delivered Meals on Wheels. Over his lifetime he donated gallons of blood in local blood drives. Delbert was always on the go. He enjoyed being with friends, family gatherings, auctions and traveling. He never met a stranger. Delbert was an avid reader, loved playing dominoes, especially the game 42, croquet and cards. He will be greatly missed by all.
Visitation will be Friday, July 1 from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. and funeral services will be held on July 2, 2016 at 10:00 A.M. all at the Watson-Armstrong Funeral Home in Mount Ayr, Iowa. Burial will be at Hickory Grove Cemetery. Memorials are to the Allendale Community Betterment and HCI Care Services in Mount Ayr.
Delbert Jackson Dies
Delbert Jackson passed away Sunday, June 26th in Mount Ayr. Funeral services will be at 10 am on July 2nd at the Watson-Armstrong Funeral Home in Mount Ayr. Rev. Len Green will officiate. Military rites and burial will be at the Hickory Grove Cemetery in Mount Ayr. There will be open visitation from 12-8 pm on July 1st and the family will be present from 6-8 pm that evening. Memorials may be given to the Allendale CBC or the HCI Care Services in Mount Ayr.
Sunday, June 26, 2016
Hopkins Picnic to Include Antique Tractor Show
The 128th Hopkins Picnic will again include an Antique Tractor Show on Saturday, July 9 at the Hopkins Park north of town where all its activities will be held.
Registration will be open at 10:30; participant judging with trophies and prizes will be awarded at 1 p.m.
Lunch will be available on the grounds, in the shade of the shelter house.
This is an event when admirers of "Old Iron" can showcase their favorites, share their stories of acquisition and/or restoration challenges, and enjoy visiting with others who share their interests.
The public is invited to view tractors at any time at the park and take advantage of lunch on the grounds. Exhibitors and spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, and plan to stay for the time of awards.
For more information contact: Richard Brand, 660-778-3476, or Bill Brand, 660-778-3281 or 816-390-7898.
Registration will be open at 10:30; participant judging with trophies and prizes will be awarded at 1 p.m.
Lunch will be available on the grounds, in the shade of the shelter house.
This is an event when admirers of "Old Iron" can showcase their favorites, share their stories of acquisition and/or restoration challenges, and enjoy visiting with others who share their interests.
The public is invited to view tractors at any time at the park and take advantage of lunch on the grounds. Exhibitors and spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, and plan to stay for the time of awards.
For more information contact: Richard Brand, 660-778-3476, or Bill Brand, 660-778-3281 or 816-390-7898.
Saturday, June 25, 2016
Conservation Commission Prohibits Hunting of Feral Hogs on MDC Property
At its meeting on June 24, the Missouri Conservation Commission approved changes to the Wildlife Code of Missouri that would prohibit the hunting of feral hogs on conservation areas and other lands owned, leased, or managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). The new regulation prohibiting hog hunting on MDC areas does not apply to private property.
The Commission's decision followed consideration of feedback received during a public comment period on the topic that ended in May. The effective date of the regulation change will be Sept. 30. Potential penalties for illegal hog hunting could include fines and the loss of hunting privileges.
MDC discourages feral hog hunting in Missouri. Research from other states shows that hog hunting increases feral hog numbers and locations because it provides incentives for illegal releases of hogs for future hunting. Releasing hogs to non-enclosed areas or to the wild is illegal in Missouri. MDC encourages the public to report these types of illegal activities to local conservation agents.
Instead of hunting hogs to help reduce their numbers, MDC encourages hunters and others to report feral-hog sightings to their local conservation agents or MDC offices. Staff can then confirm local numbers and locations, and determine how best to capture and eliminate the entire group of feral hogs.
MDC owns or manages about 1,000 conservation areas around the state with about 30 known to have feral hogs, mostly in southern Missouri. According to MDC Wildlife Division Chief Jason Sumners, hog hunting on conservation areas interferes with efforts by MDC staff to trap and eliminate entire groups of feral hogs, called sounders.
"The regulation change prohibiting hog hunting on conservation lands is a direct result of some misguided individuals disrupting trapping efforts by MDC staff," Sumners explained. "MDC staff set large, corral-type traps on areas where there are known feral hogs. They then bait the area with corn for several days or weeks to attract the targeted group of hogs, get them used to the surroundings, and get them concentrated in the trap before triggering it. This work takes weeks, with the goal being to trap the entire group of hogs. After weeks of work to catch the sounder of hogs, we then get an individual who finds out about the site, shows up at some point, and shoots a hog or two. The rest of the group then scatters and moves to a new location. As a result, weeks of work have been wasted and new areas now have feral hogs."
Feral hogs are an invasive, nuisance species in Missouri and are not wildlife. ?They cause significant damage to wildlife habitats, compete with native wildlife such as deer and turkey for food, prey upon native wildlife such as turkey and quail, destroy natural areas along with agricultural lands, pollute ponds and streams, and spread diseases to domestic livestock and people. For more information on feral hogs, visit the MDC website at mdc.mo.gov/feralhog
The Commission's decision followed consideration of feedback received during a public comment period on the topic that ended in May. The effective date of the regulation change will be Sept. 30. Potential penalties for illegal hog hunting could include fines and the loss of hunting privileges.
MDC discourages feral hog hunting in Missouri. Research from other states shows that hog hunting increases feral hog numbers and locations because it provides incentives for illegal releases of hogs for future hunting. Releasing hogs to non-enclosed areas or to the wild is illegal in Missouri. MDC encourages the public to report these types of illegal activities to local conservation agents.
Instead of hunting hogs to help reduce their numbers, MDC encourages hunters and others to report feral-hog sightings to their local conservation agents or MDC offices. Staff can then confirm local numbers and locations, and determine how best to capture and eliminate the entire group of feral hogs.
MDC owns or manages about 1,000 conservation areas around the state with about 30 known to have feral hogs, mostly in southern Missouri. According to MDC Wildlife Division Chief Jason Sumners, hog hunting on conservation areas interferes with efforts by MDC staff to trap and eliminate entire groups of feral hogs, called sounders.
"The regulation change prohibiting hog hunting on conservation lands is a direct result of some misguided individuals disrupting trapping efforts by MDC staff," Sumners explained. "MDC staff set large, corral-type traps on areas where there are known feral hogs. They then bait the area with corn for several days or weeks to attract the targeted group of hogs, get them used to the surroundings, and get them concentrated in the trap before triggering it. This work takes weeks, with the goal being to trap the entire group of hogs. After weeks of work to catch the sounder of hogs, we then get an individual who finds out about the site, shows up at some point, and shoots a hog or two. The rest of the group then scatters and moves to a new location. As a result, weeks of work have been wasted and new areas now have feral hogs."
Feral hogs are an invasive, nuisance species in Missouri and are not wildlife. ?They cause significant damage to wildlife habitats, compete with native wildlife such as deer and turkey for food, prey upon native wildlife such as turkey and quail, destroy natural areas along with agricultural lands, pollute ponds and streams, and spread diseases to domestic livestock and people. For more information on feral hogs, visit the MDC website at mdc.mo.gov/feralhog
Obituary -- Janie Parman 1956-2016
Janie Parman was
born February 15, 1956 in Mt Ayr, Iowa to Dale and Verla Brown. She passed away
June 23, 2016 at Creighton University Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska at the
age of 60.
Janie lived in
Allendale, Missouri until she was 2 years old when her family moved to Augusta,
Kansas. They lived there until her father passed away in 1966. She spent the
rest of her life in Worth County.
She married Pete
Parman in 1973. To this union two daughters were born, Sally and Cynthia. They
later divorced. She spent the last 10 years of her life with her companion
Kenny Hughes in Grant City.
Janie loved
fishing, boating, playing cards, dominoes and spending time with family and
friends. She was a skilled seamstress. She made all of her girls clothing until
they were in 2nd grade. She also made her younger sister’s high
school formals. She was an amazing cook and everyone had a favorite dish or
dessert that she made.
Janie was a
loving, caring, generous person who always put others ahead of herself. Her
greatest treasure in life was her family, especially her daughters and
grandkids.
Janie was
preceded in death by her father and brother John.
She is survived by daughters: Sally Parman and Cynthia
(Steven) Duncan, mother: Verla (Ronald) Damman, grandchildren: Audrey Parman,
Max Alvarez, Doyle and Sydney Duncan, great-granddaughter: Alaina Landeros, siblings:
Jim (Vickie) Brown, JoAnn (Donnie) Pollock, and Jerry McClure, her companion
Kenny Hughes and their dog-child Duke Wayne Hughes.
Funeral Services will be 10:00 A.M. Monday, June 27, 2016 at
the Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City, Missouri. Pastor Len Green will officiate. Interment was in the Miller Cemetery, Denver, Missouri.
Thursday, June 23, 2016
Worth County FSA Acreage Reporting Dates for 2016
Worth County USDA Farm
Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director Eric Redden announced that producers who file accurate and timely reports for all crops
and land uses, including failed acreage can prevent the potential loss of FSA
program benefits. Please pay close attention to the acreage reporting dates
below for 2016.
“In order to comply with FSA program
eligibility requirements, all producers are encouraged to visit the Worth
County FSA office to file an accurate crop certification report by the
applicable deadline," said Redden.
The following acreage reporting date is applicable
for Worth County:
July
15, 2016: CRP, burley tobacco, corn, cotton, grain sorghum, hybrid
corn seed, popcorn, rice, soybeans & all other crops.
The following exceptions apply to the above acreage
reporting dates:
·
If the crop has not been planted
by the above acreage reporting date, then the acreage must be reported no later
than 15 calendar days after planting is completed.
·
If a producer acquires additional
acreage after the above acreage reporting date, then the acreage must be
reported no later than 30 calendars days after purchase or acquiring the lease.
Appropriate documentation must be provided to the county office.
·
If a perennial forage crop is
reported with the intended use of “cover only,” “green manure,” “left
standing,” or “seed” then the acreage must be reported by July 15th.
According to Redden,
Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) policy holders should note
that the acreage reporting date for NAP covered crops is the earlier of the
dates listed above or 15 calendar days before grazing or harvesting of the crop
begins.
For questions regarding crop
certification and crop loss reports, please contact the Worth County FSA office
at (660) 564-3341.
Monday, June 20, 2016
Suspicious Black Pickup Spotted North of Sheridan
A suspicious black pickup was spotted near Sheridan Sunday afternoon. Tyler Paxson reported that a man was sitting in the vehicle all day near the Iowa line. Call in tips to the Sheriff’s office at 564-2222.
Strange School Buses Spotted in Worth County, Ravenwood
Two weeks ago, people called the Worth County Sheriff's Department about strange school buses spotted in Worth County. Last Wednesday, around six of these strange school buses were headed northbound from Ravenwood to Maryville at around 10 pm when three of them were stopped by Missouri Highway Patrol vehicles. Two were stopped just north of Ravenwood on 136, while one more was stopped in Ravenwood on 46. All six were towing smaller school busses. Three of them continued towards Maryville. Another Highway Patrol car was stationed that night on the gravel road across from the one leading to Mozingo Lake.
Sunday, June 19, 2016
Hundreds Attend Cam White Benefit
Hundreds of people attended the Cam White Benefit held at Denric Hall between Pickering and Hopkins Saturday. Mr. White was seriously injured in an accident east of Hopkins recently, and has been receiving medical treatment ever since. The fundraiser was to cover his medical expenses. Frank Hoepker was the auctioneer, assisted by John Turner.
Among people and businesses from around the area who donated goods to the silent auction and the live auction were Willis Spire and family, Frankie and Brylie Chesnut and kids, Adam and Vivian Riley, Kristi Stricker, Tonya Rutherford, Northwest Athletic Department, Maryville Florists, Fuzzy's Harvesting, State Savings Bank, Crown Limo, Adam and Sherra (Baldwin) Weldon and family, Ashley Turner, Big Bird's Bait & Bows, Maryville Tools, Diana Fisher, Jeremy and Becky Ferris, Paula Johnston, Nodaway News-Leader, Bedford Flower Shop, Amy Wolf, Larry and Melody Bix, Student Body, Jocks Nitch, Jennifer Adwell, Ashley Guthrie, Mary Townsend, Justin and Jessi Baldwin, Vicker for Sheriff, Black Bee Honey Farm (Keith Dougan), Tara Dukes, Sarah King, Emily Tobin, A.J.'s Restaurant & Lounge, Classic Cuts, Curves, Annette Swaney, Jackie Schmitz, Brandon and Kaci Flippo, Becki Tompkins, Louis Null, Alan and Carolyn Coy, Northwest Cell, O'Hair Salon, the Kansas City Royals, Perfection Plus Auto Body, Junction Cafe, Jane Calfee, Carson's Bar & Grill, Ali Ramsey, Adam & Sarah Emery, Theresa Ewart and family, Zeb's Smokehouse, Casey's, Natasha Blackford, Billy Kreale, Godfather's, Consumers Oil Company, Brian Hunt, John Turner, Tim Jackson, Busy B Carpet Cleaning, Dennis and Renee White, Mike Chesnut, Mary Ellen White, Todd and Janice Gray, Northwest Heating and Cooling, Sutherlands, Jerry Roush, Jack and Beccy Baldwin, Nancy McCrary, and Donna Hansen.
Please send all corrections and omissions to this list to Sheridan Express, PO Box 136, Sheridan, MO 64486, or email us at express@grm.net.
Among people and businesses from around the area who donated goods to the silent auction and the live auction were Willis Spire and family, Frankie and Brylie Chesnut and kids, Adam and Vivian Riley, Kristi Stricker, Tonya Rutherford, Northwest Athletic Department, Maryville Florists, Fuzzy's Harvesting, State Savings Bank, Crown Limo, Adam and Sherra (Baldwin) Weldon and family, Ashley Turner, Big Bird's Bait & Bows, Maryville Tools, Diana Fisher, Jeremy and Becky Ferris, Paula Johnston, Nodaway News-Leader, Bedford Flower Shop, Amy Wolf, Larry and Melody Bix, Student Body, Jocks Nitch, Jennifer Adwell, Ashley Guthrie, Mary Townsend, Justin and Jessi Baldwin, Vicker for Sheriff, Black Bee Honey Farm (Keith Dougan), Tara Dukes, Sarah King, Emily Tobin, A.J.'s Restaurant & Lounge, Classic Cuts, Curves, Annette Swaney, Jackie Schmitz, Brandon and Kaci Flippo, Becki Tompkins, Louis Null, Alan and Carolyn Coy, Northwest Cell, O'Hair Salon, the Kansas City Royals, Perfection Plus Auto Body, Junction Cafe, Jane Calfee, Carson's Bar & Grill, Ali Ramsey, Adam & Sarah Emery, Theresa Ewart and family, Zeb's Smokehouse, Casey's, Natasha Blackford, Billy Kreale, Godfather's, Consumers Oil Company, Brian Hunt, John Turner, Tim Jackson, Busy B Carpet Cleaning, Dennis and Renee White, Mike Chesnut, Mary Ellen White, Todd and Janice Gray, Northwest Heating and Cooling, Sutherlands, Jerry Roush, Jack and Beccy Baldwin, Nancy McCrary, and Donna Hansen.
Please send all corrections and omissions to this list to Sheridan Express, PO Box 136, Sheridan, MO 64486, or email us at express@grm.net.
30 People Meet New Music Teacher Julie Capps
Around 30 Worth County students, family members, and community members came to meet new music teacher Julie Capps Saturday afternoon at the Partnership Library. She said she was not looking forward to moving her house, but that she was looking forward to being home again. "Hopefully, this is the last time I will have to move," she said. She was originally from Atlanthus Grove, and went Stanberry High School. She was originally Julie Osborn and is also related to the Mercers in Stanberry. She has found a place west of Grant City to live; she plans to be moved in by July 1st and have band camp on August 8th.
Ms. Capps has directed bands in Texas and southern Missouri; she once directed Permian High School of Odessa (TX) of Friday Night Lights fame; she said that everything that was written about the school and its extensive football tradition is true. Winning is expected, and losing is a major bad deal, with irate fans putting "For Sale" signs on the coach's property. She has taught everything musically related; her band once played for George W. and Laura Bush. She has three grown sons, a granddaughter, and a grown lab.
"I'm really excited to be here, and I can't wait to get started," said Ms. Capps. "I want the kids to have fun and play well." She said she wanted to see the band get back to where they were routinely getting awards under Mrs. Joanna Healy and Mr. Kenneth Thompson. "My kids are all grown up, so my time is yours," she promised.
She said that she plans to have the 6th grade start in band; that way, she can focus more on recorder work. By the end of the 5th grade, her goal is to have students ready for band if they are interested. One change she is making is that she's not forcing parents to sign off that their kids have practiced at home. "One of my sons played random notes in the bathroom once and tried to get me to sign off on it," she said. Ms. Capps follows in some big footsteps, but she has already got the support of Jim Spiers, long-time vocal music teacher. "It's a blessing to have you here," he said.
Ms. Capps has directed bands in Texas and southern Missouri; she once directed Permian High School of Odessa (TX) of Friday Night Lights fame; she said that everything that was written about the school and its extensive football tradition is true. Winning is expected, and losing is a major bad deal, with irate fans putting "For Sale" signs on the coach's property. She has taught everything musically related; her band once played for George W. and Laura Bush. She has three grown sons, a granddaughter, and a grown lab.
"I'm really excited to be here, and I can't wait to get started," said Ms. Capps. "I want the kids to have fun and play well." She said she wanted to see the band get back to where they were routinely getting awards under Mrs. Joanna Healy and Mr. Kenneth Thompson. "My kids are all grown up, so my time is yours," she promised.
She said that she plans to have the 6th grade start in band; that way, she can focus more on recorder work. By the end of the 5th grade, her goal is to have students ready for band if they are interested. One change she is making is that she's not forcing parents to sign off that their kids have practiced at home. "One of my sons played random notes in the bathroom once and tried to get me to sign off on it," she said. Ms. Capps follows in some big footsteps, but she has already got the support of Jim Spiers, long-time vocal music teacher. "It's a blessing to have you here," he said.
Undefeated NEN Senior League Team Beats North Andrew Behind Koch
Korbin Koch, who is playing with Northeast Nodaway's senior league team, shut down North Andrew's fledgling baseball team and his new teammates gave him plenty of run support as Northeast shut down the Cardinals 18-3. North Andrew will offer baseball at the high school level for the first time and will be coached by long-time Worth County coach Todd Simmons. Mr. Simmons will also coach girls softball as well. The first challenge will be to field a competitive team; the next will be to find a conference to play in. North Andrew left the Platte Valley Conference for the Grand River Conference effective this year.
North Andrew took a 3-0 lead in the top of the first thanks to a three-run double which took a bad hop and got away from Spencer Gray and rolled all the way to the wall. But Northeast came back to tie it as Ethan Adwell reached safely when the second baseman missed a tag on Brayden Welch and threw away the throw to first. Two runs scored before the Cardinals could corral the ball. Colton Wilmes grounded out to tie the game up at 1.
NEN starting pitcher Ethan Adwell struggled to find the strike zone, walking four batters in 1+ innings of work before running out of pitches. But then Koch came on in relief and overmatched the Cardinal batters. He picked a runner off first; catcher Rowdy West threw another runner out stealing after a walk, and Koch recovered to strike out the next batter on three pitches. Sporting a fastball, breaking ball, and knuckleball, Koch proceeded to tie up the Cardinal batters the rest of the way, fooling them many times and having them back out on breaking stuff and knuckle balls that were in the strike zone.
Rowdy West put Northeast up for good in the second as he doubled off the wall to score Chet Spire and Rory Bredlow. West then turned around and threw another runner out stealing third to stop any damage in the top half of the third. With two outs and the bases loaded, Northeast finally broke the game open as Spencer Weir walked to force in a run. Two run singles from Rowdy West and Brayden Welch followed to put Northeast up 10-3. Colton Wilmes caught a towering fly ball in left in the fourth that took forever to come down, and West threw his third batter out stealing later in the inning. Koch froze another batter with a knuckleball after the batter had just missed extra bases with a line drive that was just foul past third.
The floodgates opened up in the fourth as North Andrew made seven errors; six walks of Bluejay batters didn't help either. Spencer Weir came on in relief in the top of the fifth to strike out the side.
North Andrew took a 3-0 lead in the top of the first thanks to a three-run double which took a bad hop and got away from Spencer Gray and rolled all the way to the wall. But Northeast came back to tie it as Ethan Adwell reached safely when the second baseman missed a tag on Brayden Welch and threw away the throw to first. Two runs scored before the Cardinals could corral the ball. Colton Wilmes grounded out to tie the game up at 1.
NEN starting pitcher Ethan Adwell struggled to find the strike zone, walking four batters in 1+ innings of work before running out of pitches. But then Koch came on in relief and overmatched the Cardinal batters. He picked a runner off first; catcher Rowdy West threw another runner out stealing after a walk, and Koch recovered to strike out the next batter on three pitches. Sporting a fastball, breaking ball, and knuckleball, Koch proceeded to tie up the Cardinal batters the rest of the way, fooling them many times and having them back out on breaking stuff and knuckle balls that were in the strike zone.
Rowdy West put Northeast up for good in the second as he doubled off the wall to score Chet Spire and Rory Bredlow. West then turned around and threw another runner out stealing third to stop any damage in the top half of the third. With two outs and the bases loaded, Northeast finally broke the game open as Spencer Weir walked to force in a run. Two run singles from Rowdy West and Brayden Welch followed to put Northeast up 10-3. Colton Wilmes caught a towering fly ball in left in the fourth that took forever to come down, and West threw his third batter out stealing later in the inning. Koch froze another batter with a knuckleball after the batter had just missed extra bases with a line drive that was just foul past third.
The floodgates opened up in the fourth as North Andrew made seven errors; six walks of Bluejay batters didn't help either. Spencer Weir came on in relief in the top of the fifth to strike out the side.
Payton Adwell Thrown Out at Plate as Bluejay Softball Beats Tigers for Tourney Title
Payton Adwell was thrown out at home plate in the bottom of the fifth as Northeast Nodaway held on to preserve a 3-2 win to take a round robin softball tournament title. The tournament consisted of five teams -- Maryville, King City Purple, North Nodaway, Worth County, and Northeast Nodaway; all games were played at Northeast Nodaway. Teams flipped coins for home and visitors.
Pitcher Maggie Schmitz got Emily Thomas and Mattie Downing out on groundouts, but Payton Adwell hit a sharp grounder that a diving Makayla Adwell could not get to. The ball continued to roll into left; outfielder Gerry Runde could not cut it off and it rolled all the way to the wall. As Adwell was flying around the bases, Adwell recovered herself and hustled into the grass to take the cutoff throw; she whirled around and threw a high throw to catcher Taylor Coffelt. But Coffelt pulled down the throw and got the tag on Adwell for the final out of the game.
Worth County had taken an early 1-0 lead, but freshman Jana Walker's baserunning sparked Northeast in the third. She reached on a single past short; the cutoff throw rolled a few feet away from shortstop Anna Gladstone, but that was enough for Walker to take off for second despite the coach's yelling, "No, no, no!" She was safe anyway and took third when Taylor Coffelt reached on a dropped third strike. Coffelt stole second and Walker came home to tie it up when the throw plunked her and rolled away.
Coffelt then reached third on a wild pitch and then Makayla Adwell walked and stole second. Tiger catcher Haley Hunt tried to pick off Coffelt on the play, but she plunked Taylor instead; somehow, Coffelt was able to crawl back and touch the bag before Worth County could recover the ball to tag her out before Coffelt lay motionless for the next few minutes. Somehow, she picked herself up and stayed in the game, going on to catch Maggie Schmitz for the last two innings.
Worth County got a run back in the fourth when Anna Gladstone grounded out to score Haley Hunt. Payton Adwell was robbed twice in the game; in the third, she hit a screamer that was snagged on the fly by Makayla Adwell at short for a backhanded shoestring catch.
Northeast won the tournament by running the table, while Worth County was second on tiebreaks. A win would have given Worth County the head to head tiebreak and the tournament title. The standings were:
Northeast Nodaway 4-0
Worth County 2-2
North Nodaway 2-2
King City Purple 1-3
Maryville 1-3
The scores were:
Northeast Nodaway 5, North Nodaway 2
North Nodaway 12, King City Purple 5
Maryville 9, Worth County 2
North Nodaway 12, Maryville 5
Worth County 7, North Nodaway 4
Northeast Nodaway 16, King City Purple 1
Northeast Nodaway 19, Maryville 4
King City Purple 3, Maryville 2
Worth County 15, King City Purple 0
Pitcher Maggie Schmitz got Emily Thomas and Mattie Downing out on groundouts, but Payton Adwell hit a sharp grounder that a diving Makayla Adwell could not get to. The ball continued to roll into left; outfielder Gerry Runde could not cut it off and it rolled all the way to the wall. As Adwell was flying around the bases, Adwell recovered herself and hustled into the grass to take the cutoff throw; she whirled around and threw a high throw to catcher Taylor Coffelt. But Coffelt pulled down the throw and got the tag on Adwell for the final out of the game.
Worth County had taken an early 1-0 lead, but freshman Jana Walker's baserunning sparked Northeast in the third. She reached on a single past short; the cutoff throw rolled a few feet away from shortstop Anna Gladstone, but that was enough for Walker to take off for second despite the coach's yelling, "No, no, no!" She was safe anyway and took third when Taylor Coffelt reached on a dropped third strike. Coffelt stole second and Walker came home to tie it up when the throw plunked her and rolled away.
Coffelt then reached third on a wild pitch and then Makayla Adwell walked and stole second. Tiger catcher Haley Hunt tried to pick off Coffelt on the play, but she plunked Taylor instead; somehow, Coffelt was able to crawl back and touch the bag before Worth County could recover the ball to tag her out before Coffelt lay motionless for the next few minutes. Somehow, she picked herself up and stayed in the game, going on to catch Maggie Schmitz for the last two innings.
Worth County got a run back in the fourth when Anna Gladstone grounded out to score Haley Hunt. Payton Adwell was robbed twice in the game; in the third, she hit a screamer that was snagged on the fly by Makayla Adwell at short for a backhanded shoestring catch.
Northeast won the tournament by running the table, while Worth County was second on tiebreaks. A win would have given Worth County the head to head tiebreak and the tournament title. The standings were:
Northeast Nodaway 4-0
Worth County 2-2
North Nodaway 2-2
King City Purple 1-3
Maryville 1-3
The scores were:
Northeast Nodaway 5, North Nodaway 2
North Nodaway 12, King City Purple 5
Maryville 9, Worth County 2
North Nodaway 12, Maryville 5
Worth County 7, North Nodaway 4
Northeast Nodaway 16, King City Purple 1
Northeast Nodaway 19, Maryville 4
King City Purple 3, Maryville 2
Worth County 15, King City Purple 0
MSHSAA Rejects Cameron, Chillicothe for 8-Man Championship
The June 17th edition of the St. Joseph News-Press reported that MSHSAA has rejected Cameron and Chillicothe as sites for the 8-man title game after hearing presentations from both schools. Tentatively, the game will be played in Springfield the Friday before Thanksgiving. MSHSAA officials cited input from coaches concerning the location of the title game. As quoted by the News-Press back in April, both Stanberry Coach Shane Hilton and North Andrew Coach Jonathan Schoonover lobbied for the 8-man athletes to have an experience equal to the larger schools.
Last decade, then-Worth County football coach Chuck Borey had repeatedly lobbied the MSHSAA board to hold the title game in St. Louis along with the other 11-man schools, attending their meetings in person to do so. The MSHSAA board finally agreed to do so, with the first title game being held in St. Louis in 2008. However, with the St. Louis Rams moving out of town back to Los Angeles and with expenses going up, the MSHSAA was forced to seek another home for both the 8-man and 11-man title games.
Worth County had played conference games with Cameron until 1972, when the Dragons outgrew the conference and moved to the Midland Empire Conference. Last year, the Tigers played Greenfield in Cameron so that Greenfield would not have to travel as far.
Last decade, then-Worth County football coach Chuck Borey had repeatedly lobbied the MSHSAA board to hold the title game in St. Louis along with the other 11-man schools, attending their meetings in person to do so. The MSHSAA board finally agreed to do so, with the first title game being held in St. Louis in 2008. However, with the St. Louis Rams moving out of town back to Los Angeles and with expenses going up, the MSHSAA was forced to seek another home for both the 8-man and 11-man title games.
Worth County had played conference games with Cameron until 1972, when the Dragons outgrew the conference and moved to the Midland Empire Conference. Last year, the Tigers played Greenfield in Cameron so that Greenfield would not have to travel as far.
Van Crashes Into Pole West of Sheridan
A lady driving a van crashed into a fence post on David Evans' farm west of Sheridan Friday at around 10:45 am. Gary Hawk witnessed the accident; he was stopped on a side road in front of Mr. Evans' house said that the van was westbound on 246 and lost control, going off the north side of the road and slamming into the fencepost. He said that if she hadn't have hit the fencepost, she would have broadsided his pickup. The lady was not injured in the accident; she was wearing her seatbelt at the time. The Missouri State Highway Patrol investigated. The Sheridan Ambulance responded to the call and the Sheridan Fire Department came to direct traffic.
Another Fatal Accident Near Mound City as Man Lifeflighted to St. Joseph
Mound City experienced its second fatal accident in two weeks Friday at 11:19 am. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2006 Chevy Silverado driven by Robert Brandon (64) of Mound City was northbound on Route N and a 1987 Chevy Nova driven by Russ Neiderhouse (75) of Oregon was southbound. The Silverado attempted to make a left hand turn on Route HH and struck the Nova. The Silverado came to rest on the roadway on its wheels facing west. The Nova came to rest off the west side of the roadway on its wheels facing north.
Niederhouse was life-flighted to Mosaic Life Care, but was pronounced dead at 12:43 pm that afternoon. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident. Brandon received minor injuries and was treated at the scene and transported to the Holt County Sheriff's Office. He was wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.
Niederhouse was life-flighted to Mosaic Life Care, but was pronounced dead at 12:43 pm that afternoon. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident. Brandon received minor injuries and was treated at the scene and transported to the Holt County Sheriff's Office. He was wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.
Grant City Woman Charged with Driving While Suspended
A Grant City woman, Brandy Harrington (32) was charged with driving while suspended on June 10th in Worth County Circuit Court. Patrol Officer Brad Maudlin filed a probable cause statement alleging that he had stopped her on highway 169 and 190th Street for driving 72 miles per hour. When running the license check, he found out that she had been suspended in Florida for non-support on May 26th, 2010. Drivers licenses are automatically suspended in Missouri and other states for not paying child support. Based on these allegations, Prosecuting Attorney David Baird filed charges in Worth County Circuit Court. All charges listed are merely allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Dr. Dylan Miller Opens Practice Near Allendale
Dr. Dylan Miller has opened a chiropractic office three miles north of Allendale. He is the son of Marshall and Joy Miller of Allendale and is a graduate of Worth County. He received his doctorate at Logan University in Chesterfield (MO), near St. Louis. His hours are by appointment; he will treat musculoskeletal, cranial, laser, acupuncture, nutrition, and applied kinesiology. He is located on Route T on the south side; there is a sign at his house.
Allendale Baptist Church to Build New Building
The Allendale Baptist Church will build a new church building at some point in the future. The current structure was built in 1890. The current structure has experienced extensive basement leaks. Estimates to repair the leaks came to an estimated $100,000 from two separate contractors. The new building will be located north of the Allendale Park. The church has not yet figured out how to pay for the new structure or what to do with the old one.
Worth County Care & Rehab Still Exploring Options
The Worth County Care & Rehab Center is still looking at options for its facility. While the facility finished $60,000 in the black, counting tax revenues, cash flow is a major issue. The facility has had to dip into savings in order to make payroll as Medicare payments take two weeks to get there, assuming no errors. If there are errors, payments can take weeks or even months to come in. The facility has $270,000 in receivables, a number which will go down as they have made headway against aging accounts over the past year. The board authorized President Scott Houk to make inquiries into taking out a tax revenue anticipation loan in the event that savings are exhausted. It would be used to cover required expenses like payroll and then repaid when tax revenues come in on January. Back in the 1990's, the county took a similar step in order to avoid closing the courthouse doors. For longer-term loans, the facility would have to pass a bond issue.
There are currently 16 residents at the facility with one in the hospital; there were four inquiries, one Medicare Part A, and one adult daycare patient who comes in 3-5 times a week. One option looked at was using the north wing for independent living. If they did that, there would be a lot of startup costs; they would have to upgrade the restrooms and put up a concrete wall clear across the north wing. Employees could not access the independent living section of the facility. Another option was passing a tax levy; however, the facility found out that they are at their 35 cent ceiling and cannot go over that, unless there is precedent elsewhere.
There have been a lot of activities at the facility, including tap dancing, Memorial Day activities, Hungry Hippos, and gardening in the gazebo. Residents went on a fishing trip one day.
The facility is currently a three star facility. A few years ago, the Worth County Care & Rehab Center was a five-star facility; however, the people in charge of the rating changed how they evaluate facilities. Two other facilities in the area are two-star facilities.
The facility signed an agreement with Sterling Dental, who will come and perform dental services for residents.
Tiles were replaced in the shower area of the facility. There were more outpatient customers for the month.
The next meeting will be July 20th. The facility is looking for a new board member from the Smith or North Allen township area. The facility is taxpayer supported. Prospective board members who are interested can contact Administrator Bev Miller for details.
There are currently 16 residents at the facility with one in the hospital; there were four inquiries, one Medicare Part A, and one adult daycare patient who comes in 3-5 times a week. One option looked at was using the north wing for independent living. If they did that, there would be a lot of startup costs; they would have to upgrade the restrooms and put up a concrete wall clear across the north wing. Employees could not access the independent living section of the facility. Another option was passing a tax levy; however, the facility found out that they are at their 35 cent ceiling and cannot go over that, unless there is precedent elsewhere.
There have been a lot of activities at the facility, including tap dancing, Memorial Day activities, Hungry Hippos, and gardening in the gazebo. Residents went on a fishing trip one day.
The facility is currently a three star facility. A few years ago, the Worth County Care & Rehab Center was a five-star facility; however, the people in charge of the rating changed how they evaluate facilities. Two other facilities in the area are two-star facilities.
The facility signed an agreement with Sterling Dental, who will come and perform dental services for residents.
Tiles were replaced in the shower area of the facility. There were more outpatient customers for the month.
The next meeting will be July 20th. The facility is looking for a new board member from the Smith or North Allen township area. The facility is taxpayer supported. Prospective board members who are interested can contact Administrator Bev Miller for details.
Coleman Reunion Held at A&G Restaurant
The grandchildren of Lew and Lola Coleman, deceased, met on May 9th, 2016 at A&G Restaurant in Maryville for lunch. The honored guests were Bill and Carol Morrison of Loudon (TN), who were observing their 50th wedding anniversary and aunt Vivian Coleman.
Others joining in the celebration were Judy & Jim Gamel of Bedford, Alan and Elizabeth Coleman, Karl and Virginia Coleman, Corky DeMott, Kelly Morrison & Jordan Morrison all of Hopkins, Mary Coleman of Savannah, and Kay Coleman, Erma Lou and Glenn Owens, Jim and Linda Morrison, Leroy and Helen Morrison, and Kirby, Angela, and Jackson Morrison, all of Maryville, and the honored guest, Billy and Carol from Loudon (TN). It was a very special day for all.
Others joining in the celebration were Judy & Jim Gamel of Bedford, Alan and Elizabeth Coleman, Karl and Virginia Coleman, Corky DeMott, Kelly Morrison & Jordan Morrison all of Hopkins, Mary Coleman of Savannah, and Kay Coleman, Erma Lou and Glenn Owens, Jim and Linda Morrison, Leroy and Helen Morrison, and Kirby, Angela, and Jackson Morrison, all of Maryville, and the honored guest, Billy and Carol from Loudon (TN). It was a very special day for all.
Saturday, June 18, 2016
Too Much Heat, Too Little Rain Can Change Crop Picture Quickly
Crops need rain and lower temperatures soon for relief. Most crops are “just a few days away from difficult times,” says University of Missouri Extension agronomy specialist Bill Wiebold.
“We can go from ‘not so bad’ to ‘pretty bad’ quickly,” Wiebold says.
Crops need up to 1-2.2 inches of rain weekly to grow well. In June, most areas of the state fell far behind.
Wiebold points to June rainfall amounts in different areas of the state. Atchison and Boone counties reported only 0.04 inch and only 0.12 inch fell in Knox County in northeastern Missouri in the first week of June. Carroll County received 0.58 inch of rain; Pemiscot got 1.4 inches and Barton had 1.66 inches. In the second week of June, only Barton County received rain, and it was a meager 0.32 inches.
Lack of rainfall and temperatures above 90 degrees in the second week of June raise concerns of possible drought.
MU agronomists in much of the state report that corn plants are “rolling” with dwindling soil moisture and rising temperatures.
Corn leaves roll as a defense mechanism to protect against excessive moisture loss through transpiration. Rolling exposes less leaf surface to the sun’s heat. Lack of water during the time when ear size is developing can spell trouble. Smaller ears with fewer kernels mean lower yields.
Soybean, too, face stress due to lack of rain. Late-planted soybean lack time to develop strong root systems. Early rooting problems—whether due to cool weather, nutrient deficiencies or soil compaction—spell trouble for soybean if drought occurs, Wiebold says.
MU Extension climatologist Pat Guinan said the northeastern quadrant of Missouri faces “very dry” conditions. That area’s high-clay-content soil tends to be more vulnerable to water stress when a dry period emerges. “The forecast is not encouraging,” he says.
Guinan says May precipitation was below normal in the area and the recent hot spell hastened evaporative demand. Vegetation quickly went into stress mode. Also, a large part of the state, extending from northeastern through southwestern Missouri, reports precipitation deficits of 4-8 inches since Jan. 1.
Guinan encourages Missouri residents to submit drought impact reports to the National Drought Mitigation Center. Use the Drought Impact Reporter, http://droughtreporter.unl.edu, to submit reports. These reports provide local expertise to authors of the Drought Monitor map. Drought impact statements are seen by the Drought Monitor author and the general public.
“More participation and input from local Missourians will establish a consensus among folks and hopefully provide a more accurate portrayal of drought in the Show-Me State,” Guinan says.
“We can go from ‘not so bad’ to ‘pretty bad’ quickly,” Wiebold says.
Crops need up to 1-2.2 inches of rain weekly to grow well. In June, most areas of the state fell far behind.
Wiebold points to June rainfall amounts in different areas of the state. Atchison and Boone counties reported only 0.04 inch and only 0.12 inch fell in Knox County in northeastern Missouri in the first week of June. Carroll County received 0.58 inch of rain; Pemiscot got 1.4 inches and Barton had 1.66 inches. In the second week of June, only Barton County received rain, and it was a meager 0.32 inches.
Lack of rainfall and temperatures above 90 degrees in the second week of June raise concerns of possible drought.
MU agronomists in much of the state report that corn plants are “rolling” with dwindling soil moisture and rising temperatures.
Corn leaves roll as a defense mechanism to protect against excessive moisture loss through transpiration. Rolling exposes less leaf surface to the sun’s heat. Lack of water during the time when ear size is developing can spell trouble. Smaller ears with fewer kernels mean lower yields.
Soybean, too, face stress due to lack of rain. Late-planted soybean lack time to develop strong root systems. Early rooting problems—whether due to cool weather, nutrient deficiencies or soil compaction—spell trouble for soybean if drought occurs, Wiebold says.
MU Extension climatologist Pat Guinan said the northeastern quadrant of Missouri faces “very dry” conditions. That area’s high-clay-content soil tends to be more vulnerable to water stress when a dry period emerges. “The forecast is not encouraging,” he says.
Guinan says May precipitation was below normal in the area and the recent hot spell hastened evaporative demand. Vegetation quickly went into stress mode. Also, a large part of the state, extending from northeastern through southwestern Missouri, reports precipitation deficits of 4-8 inches since Jan. 1.
Guinan encourages Missouri residents to submit drought impact reports to the National Drought Mitigation Center. Use the Drought Impact Reporter, http://droughtreporter.unl.edu, to submit reports. These reports provide local expertise to authors of the Drought Monitor map. Drought impact statements are seen by the Drought Monitor author and the general public.
“More participation and input from local Missourians will establish a consensus among folks and hopefully provide a more accurate portrayal of drought in the Show-Me State,” Guinan says.
FSA Nomination Period Ends August 1st
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that the
nomination period for farmers and ranchers to serve on local Farm Service
Agency (FSA) county committees begins Wednesday, June 15, 2016.
“Through the county committees, farmers and ranchers have a voice.
Their opinions and ideas get to be heard on federal farm programs,” said FSA
Administrator Val Dolcini. “I encourage all eligible farmers and ranchers
across the spectrum of American agriculture, to get involved in this year's
elections. We have seen an increase in the number of qualified nominees,
especially among women and minorities, and I hope that trend continues.”
To be eligible to serve on a FSA county committee, a person must
participate or cooperate in an FSA administered program, be eligible to vote in
a county committee election and reside in the local administrative area where they
are nominated.
Farmers and ranchers may nominate themselves or others. Organizations
representing minorities and women also may nominate candidates. To become a
candidate, an eligible individual must sign an FSA-669A nomination form. The
form and other information about FSA county committee elections are available
at www.fsa.usda.gov/elections. 2016 nomination forms must
be postmarked or received in the local USDA Service Center by close of business
on Aug. 1, 2016.
FSA will mail election ballots to eligible voters beginning Nov. 7,
2016. Ballots must be returned to the local county office via mail or in person
by Dec. 5, 2016. Newly-elected committee members and alternates will take
office on Jan. 1, 2017.
Nationwide, there are approximately 7,800 farmers and ranchers
serving on FSA county committees. These individuals make decisions on disaster
and conservation programs, emergency programs, commodity price support loan
programs, and other agricultural issues. Committees consist of three to 11
members that are elected by eligible producers, and members serve three-year terms.
To
learn more about county committees, contact your local FSA county office
or visit http://offices.usda.gov to find a
county office near you.
Since
2009, USDA has worked to strengthen and support American agriculture, an
industry that supports one in 11 American jobs, provides American consumers
with more than 80 percent of the food we consume, ensures that Americans spend
less of their paychecks at the grocery store than most people in other
countries, and supports markets for homegrown renewable energy and materials.
USDA has also provided $5.6 billion in disaster relief to farmers and ranchers;
expanded risk management tools with products like Whole Farm Revenue
Protection; and helped farm businesses grow with $36 billion in farm credit.
The Department has engaged its resources to support a strong next generation of
farmers and ranchers by improving access to land and capital; building new
markets and market opportunities; and extending new conservation opportunities.
USDA has developed new markets for rural-made products, including more than
2,500 biobased products through USDA's BioPreferred program; and invested $64
billion in infrastructure and community facilities to help improve the quality
of life in rural America. For more information, visit www.usda.gov/results.
Voting Absentee in Worth County
I, Roberta Owens, County Clerk, wish to inform all
registered voters that absentee ballots are available in the County Clerk’s office
for the 2016 August 2nd Primary Election.
Anyone needing to vote absentee because of illness or absence from the
polls on Election Day may do one of the following:
1)
Submit a request in writing by mail or fax and
include: name, address, mailing address if different, signature, date of birth, and the last four digits of their
social security number, party ballot.
2)
Call the office for an absentee application.
3)
Vote in person in the County Clerk’s office
Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. along with identification ie:
voter registration card, drivers license, utility bill, etc.
4)
Go to County website at worthcounty.us and print
the absentee form, fill it out, then mail it in.
The final day to mail an absentee ballot to a voter is
Wednesday, July 27th , 2016. The final day to vote absentee in
person is 5:00 p.m. on Monday, August 1st , in the County Clerk’s office.
The County Clerk’s
office will be open Saturday July 31st, 2016, from 8:30a.m.-12:00p.m. for absentee
voters.
If you have any questions, contact Roberta Owens at 660-564-2219
or submit a written request for an absentee ballot to: PO Box 450, MO 64456-0450 or fax a request to
660-564-2432.
Potential Impact of Dry Weather on Corn
High temperatures and lack of rain have caused many corn fields to roll in afternoon. Water is transpiring through leaves and the roots are not able to take up enough moisture. Leaf rolling only in the afternoon hours is probably not significant enough to reduce ear size. However, leaf rolling that occurs from shortly after sunup to after dusk will signal severe drought and impact yield.
As far as growth stages, corn is entering critical stages of growth where dry weather and heat can impact yield. The potential ear size is from V-5 through V-16. Early season, the number of rows of ear are being determined and later, potential number of ovules that can be fertilized are determined within the kernel row.
Drought stress two weeks before and after tassel can significantly impact corn yield. During pollination, the potential number of ovules fertilized will impact yield. Heat and drought can reduce fertilized kernels. If stress continues, drought stress may cause the ears to abort kernel tips. The actual number of kernels surviving can be determined following kernel set, which is a couple of weeks after pollination.
The next few weeks will be very important in determining the impact that dry weather will have on corn yield. Hope we receive a nice gentle rain soon.
For more information, contact Wayne Flanary at 660-446-3724 or Kurt Nagel at 816-776-6961, Extension Agronomists, University of Missouri Extension.
As far as growth stages, corn is entering critical stages of growth where dry weather and heat can impact yield. The potential ear size is from V-5 through V-16. Early season, the number of rows of ear are being determined and later, potential number of ovules that can be fertilized are determined within the kernel row.
Drought stress two weeks before and after tassel can significantly impact corn yield. During pollination, the potential number of ovules fertilized will impact yield. Heat and drought can reduce fertilized kernels. If stress continues, drought stress may cause the ears to abort kernel tips. The actual number of kernels surviving can be determined following kernel set, which is a couple of weeks after pollination.
The next few weeks will be very important in determining the impact that dry weather will have on corn yield. Hope we receive a nice gentle rain soon.
For more information, contact Wayne Flanary at 660-446-3724 or Kurt Nagel at 816-776-6961, Extension Agronomists, University of Missouri Extension.
Monday, June 13, 2016
Worth County Sheriff's Report
6-6 -- Person calls about possible IRS phone scam. Call this number if you believe a call is a scam -- (800) 392-8222, Attorney General's Officer.
6-6 -- Call of cattle out north of Grant City.
6-6 -- Sheriff's office investigating an unattended death.
6-6 -- Officer investigating a hit and run accident, 4th & Pleasant, Grant City.
6-6 -- Report of domestic disturbance at 6th & West, Grant City.
6-7 -- Officer arrests subject on Buchanan County warrant.
6-8 -- Person wanting a meeting with officers.
6-9 -- Private company asking about speed limits in Worth County.
6-9 -- Officer transports one male and one female from Ringgold County Jail to Worth County for court; female bonds out, male returned to Ringgold County.
6-10 -- Officers investigate report of C&I on 169 from Carmack Junction.
6-10 -- Report of rollover accident on Route Z.
6-11 -- Highway Patrol in with person for driving while suspended.
6-11 -- Officers investigate suspicious buses on 169.
6-6 -- Call of cattle out north of Grant City.
6-6 -- Sheriff's office investigating an unattended death.
6-6 -- Officer investigating a hit and run accident, 4th & Pleasant, Grant City.
6-6 -- Report of domestic disturbance at 6th & West, Grant City.
6-7 -- Officer arrests subject on Buchanan County warrant.
6-8 -- Person wanting a meeting with officers.
6-9 -- Private company asking about speed limits in Worth County.
6-9 -- Officer transports one male and one female from Ringgold County Jail to Worth County for court; female bonds out, male returned to Ringgold County.
6-10 -- Officers investigate report of C&I on 169 from Carmack Junction.
6-10 -- Report of rollover accident on Route Z.
6-11 -- Highway Patrol in with person for driving while suspended.
6-11 -- Officers investigate suspicious buses on 169.
Lettuce Dream Appoints New Director
The Board of Directors
of Lettuce Dream is proud to announce the appointment of Jackie Allenbrand as
Director of the new social enterprise. Lettuce Dream is a hydroponic operation
that will provide training opportunities for area individuals with cognitive
and/or developmental disabilities.
Jackie comes to
Lettuce Dream with a wealth of knowledge and extensive background working with
persons with disabilities and has additional experience in the field of
agriculture through her previous work experiences. Jackie received her B.S.
Degree in Education/Special Education from Northwest Missouri State University
in Maryville, MO. Jackie and her husband Chris live on a farm near Stanberry,
MO.
“I am excited about
the opportunity to work with this innovative organization here in NW Missouri,”
says, Allenbrand. “I’ve been with Lettuce Dream since the first meeting 3 years
ago and I’m looking forward to seeing the success of this unique operation.”
“Vocational choices for persons with disabilities is limited in rural areas.
Lettuce Dream will be an opportunity for them to learn and grow within their
own communities.”
Growing Degree Tool Forecasts Corn Development
Spring corn planting across Northwest Missouri varied considerably with the ability of growers to plant into wet soils. So what is the impact of delayed planting and different planting dates across the region?
A tool called U2U Decision Support Tool for Corn GDD has been designed on the web so growers can compare current conditions to long term historical records so one can project trends through the end of the growing season.
You select the geographical area, planting date, maturity of corn and then project the current year’s development with that of historical weather information. Using this tool, one can run any number of scenarios to answer questions that are specific to the growers needs.
This tool was developed by nine Midwest universities and funded by USDA.
Obituary -- Kathleen Drake 1922-2016
Kathleen Drake, 93, of Blockton, Iowa, passed away June 8, 2016 at the Mount Ayr Health Care Center. Kathleen, the daughter of Jesse and Roxie (Roudebush) Faubion, was born at her grandparents' home near Blockton on November 28, 1922.
Kathleen was united in marriage to Lester Paul Henson on November 28, 1947 in Blockton. To this marriage were born two sons, Robert and Terry. Lester passed away on July 5, 1976. Kathleen married Burt Elmer Drake on August 28, 1978 in Princeton, Missouri. Burt passed away in January 1998.
Kathleen graduated from Blockton High School and Northwest Missouri State College in Maryville, Missouri. She thought it was important to give children a good start by focusing especially on teaching reading skills. She taught at area rural grade schools, including Timberlake School and Brush College, and at Blockton and Bedford Elementary Schools. She was so respected by students that one high school graduating class dedicated their yearbook to her as being their most influential teacher. She retired from teaching in 1976.
In addition to being a patient and caring teacher, she was known in the community as a gifted storyteller whose colorful stories contained smart and witty comments. In retirement, she enjoyed new hobbies, including painting ceramics and quilt making. She made over 70 quilts and continued this hobby up to the last two weeks of her life.
Those left to cherish her memory include her son Bob Henson and wife Linda of Clive, Iowa. Terry Henson and wife Donna of Blockton; and step-son Earl Drake and wife Connie of Blockton; grandchildren, Jason Henson, Carolyn Gunkel, Anne Henson, Laura Roberts, Tyler Henson, Levi Henson, Marshall Henson; step-grandchildren, Todd Drake, Brenda Ferris, Clint Drake, Nate Drake, Bradley Melvin, Brent Melvin, Craig Melvin and 31 great-grandchildren.
Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands; brother Robert Faubion who was killed in World War II; sister Maurine Shearer; and step-son Don Drake.
A memorial fund has been established to benefit the Blockton community.
Kathleen was united in marriage to Lester Paul Henson on November 28, 1947 in Blockton. To this marriage were born two sons, Robert and Terry. Lester passed away on July 5, 1976. Kathleen married Burt Elmer Drake on August 28, 1978 in Princeton, Missouri. Burt passed away in January 1998.
Kathleen graduated from Blockton High School and Northwest Missouri State College in Maryville, Missouri. She thought it was important to give children a good start by focusing especially on teaching reading skills. She taught at area rural grade schools, including Timberlake School and Brush College, and at Blockton and Bedford Elementary Schools. She was so respected by students that one high school graduating class dedicated their yearbook to her as being their most influential teacher. She retired from teaching in 1976.
In addition to being a patient and caring teacher, she was known in the community as a gifted storyteller whose colorful stories contained smart and witty comments. In retirement, she enjoyed new hobbies, including painting ceramics and quilt making. She made over 70 quilts and continued this hobby up to the last two weeks of her life.
Those left to cherish her memory include her son Bob Henson and wife Linda of Clive, Iowa. Terry Henson and wife Donna of Blockton; and step-son Earl Drake and wife Connie of Blockton; grandchildren, Jason Henson, Carolyn Gunkel, Anne Henson, Laura Roberts, Tyler Henson, Levi Henson, Marshall Henson; step-grandchildren, Todd Drake, Brenda Ferris, Clint Drake, Nate Drake, Bradley Melvin, Brent Melvin, Craig Melvin and 31 great-grandchildren.
Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands; brother Robert Faubion who was killed in World War II; sister Maurine Shearer; and step-son Don Drake.
A memorial fund has been established to benefit the Blockton community.
Obituary -- Dr. James Lucas 1939-2016
All of God’s Creatures Great and Small welcomed into Heaven one of its most revered friends and veterinarians on Friday, June 3, 2016, when Dr. James Franklin Lucas, known as “Jim” or “Doc,” passed away peacefully after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease
Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mildred Kay Lucas, and their four children, Jamie, Matt, Shelly, and Joe, their spouses and friend, along with nine grandchildren. Jim and Kay’s first born, Baby Daniel, passed away at three days old.
The son of Max and Dorothy Lucas, Jim was born April 14, 1939, in a farmhouse near the family farm, three years after older brother, Donovan. Jim and Don grew up driving tractors, plowing fields, raking hay, and choring for cattle and pigs (in addition to fishing, hunting, and getting into a lot of mischief).
Following graduation from Bedford High School in 1957, Jim’s love for farm life and animals landed him in vet school at Iowa State University. Kay joined Jim at ISU in 1958, and they were married on December 18, 1960. Upon earning their degrees from ISU, Jim and Kay returned to Bedford in 1964 to start a family and begin a long-time career in doctoring animals across southwest Iowa and northwest Missouri. But, caring for animals wasn’t enough for Jim. The country boy at heart continued to farm the family land, growing his Angus herd and harvesting crops. Everyone who knew Jim knows that he would still be practicing veterinary medicine, farming the land, and befriending everyone he came into contact with if the slight tremor in his left hand had never started in 1986. Parkinson’s symptoms took many things away from Jim, but it could never rob him of his smiles, laughs, jokes and passions he shared with everyone.
Family and friends celebrated Jim’s life at a Visitation on Tuesday, June 7, 2016 and at a Celebration of Life Funeral Service on June 8, 2016, at the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Bedford, Iowa. Dr. Jim Cummings led services. Doc was laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery in Bedford, Iowa. Memories may be shared at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.
The Lucas Family asks that gifts and donations be made in Dr. Lucas’ name, with a memorial to be determined at a later time.
Doc was one of those rare gems who shared his love for animals
and his love for life with all those he met.
He will be missed as a husband, father, grandfather,
and friend by his human friends, and as the
“Gentle Doctor” to his animal friends.
Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mildred Kay Lucas, and their four children, Jamie, Matt, Shelly, and Joe, their spouses and friend, along with nine grandchildren. Jim and Kay’s first born, Baby Daniel, passed away at three days old.
The son of Max and Dorothy Lucas, Jim was born April 14, 1939, in a farmhouse near the family farm, three years after older brother, Donovan. Jim and Don grew up driving tractors, plowing fields, raking hay, and choring for cattle and pigs (in addition to fishing, hunting, and getting into a lot of mischief).
Following graduation from Bedford High School in 1957, Jim’s love for farm life and animals landed him in vet school at Iowa State University. Kay joined Jim at ISU in 1958, and they were married on December 18, 1960. Upon earning their degrees from ISU, Jim and Kay returned to Bedford in 1964 to start a family and begin a long-time career in doctoring animals across southwest Iowa and northwest Missouri. But, caring for animals wasn’t enough for Jim. The country boy at heart continued to farm the family land, growing his Angus herd and harvesting crops. Everyone who knew Jim knows that he would still be practicing veterinary medicine, farming the land, and befriending everyone he came into contact with if the slight tremor in his left hand had never started in 1986. Parkinson’s symptoms took many things away from Jim, but it could never rob him of his smiles, laughs, jokes and passions he shared with everyone.
Family and friends celebrated Jim’s life at a Visitation on Tuesday, June 7, 2016 and at a Celebration of Life Funeral Service on June 8, 2016, at the United Christian Presbyterian Church in Bedford, Iowa. Dr. Jim Cummings led services. Doc was laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery in Bedford, Iowa. Memories may be shared at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford.
The Lucas Family asks that gifts and donations be made in Dr. Lucas’ name, with a memorial to be determined at a later time.
Doc was one of those rare gems who shared his love for animals
and his love for life with all those he met.
He will be missed as a husband, father, grandfather,
and friend by his human friends, and as the
“Gentle Doctor” to his animal friends.
Obituary -- Buck Farrens 1940-2016
Dale C. "Buck" Farrens Jr., 76, Maryville, Missouri, died Thursday, May 26, 2016, at Golden Living Center, Maryville.
Buck was born April 10, 1940, in Pickering, Missouri to Dale Charles "Pat" and Dorothy Kleber Farrens. He married Donna Adkisson December 9, 1967, in Des Moines, Iowa.
He retired in the year 2000, as a Campus Safety Officer for Northwest Missouri State University.
Preceding him in death were his parents, son Patrick Farrens Sr and brother James Farrens.
Buck is survived by his wife Donna Farrens, daughters: Stephanie (Stuart) Collins, Maryville, Candy Bosler, East Canton, OH, Lisa (Paul) Oshanski, Dearborn Heights, MI and Jennifer (Dave) Schlemmer, Stuart, FL; 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
Visitation is 10:00-11:00 AM, Tuesday, May 31, 2016, at Price Funeral Home, Maryville, with Funeral Services to follow at 11:00 AM, also at Price Funeral Home.
Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery, Clearmont, Missouri.
Memorials may be made to the Dale Farrens Memorial Fund.
Buck was born April 10, 1940, in Pickering, Missouri to Dale Charles "Pat" and Dorothy Kleber Farrens. He married Donna Adkisson December 9, 1967, in Des Moines, Iowa.
He retired in the year 2000, as a Campus Safety Officer for Northwest Missouri State University.
Preceding him in death were his parents, son Patrick Farrens Sr and brother James Farrens.
Buck is survived by his wife Donna Farrens, daughters: Stephanie (Stuart) Collins, Maryville, Candy Bosler, East Canton, OH, Lisa (Paul) Oshanski, Dearborn Heights, MI and Jennifer (Dave) Schlemmer, Stuart, FL; 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
Visitation is 10:00-11:00 AM, Tuesday, May 31, 2016, at Price Funeral Home, Maryville, with Funeral Services to follow at 11:00 AM, also at Price Funeral Home.
Burial will be at Oak Hill Cemetery, Clearmont, Missouri.
Memorials may be made to the Dale Farrens Memorial Fund.
Obituary -- Margaret Ditamore 1914-2016
Margaret Neal Ditamore, 102, Raytown, MO, formerly of Maryville, died Thursday, June 9, 2016, at Westridge Gardens in Raytown.
Margaret was born April 14, 1914, in Ravenwood, MO to Everett and Katherine (Farley) Lawson.
A graduate of Ravenwood High School, Margaret was a housewife and sales clerk at Place's Store, Maryville.
She married Edgar Ditamore January 27, 1934, in St. Joseph, MO.
Margaret was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Maryville, Herron Homemaking Club and an American Red Cross Volunteer.
Preceding her in death were her parents, husband Edgar Ditamore (July 29, 1995) and sister Verna Mae Coker.
She is survived by her son Marlyn (Carol) Ditamore, Raytown, MO; three grandchildren: Chris (Amy) Roberts and Mike (Amy) Ditamore, all of Lee's Summit and Stephen (Mary Beth) Ditamore, Norfolk, VA; eight great-grandchildren: Tristyn, Skylar and Brendan Roberts, Ryan and Carter Moore, Addison Ditamore, Chloee Riley and Jackson Ditamore and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be 10:00 AM Monday, June 13, 2016, at Price Funeral Home, Maryville.
Funeral Services are 11:00 AM, following the visitation, also at Price Funeral Home. Burial follows at Nodaway Memorial Gardens, Maryville.
Memorials may be made to the Nodaway County Senior Center.
www.pricefuneralhomemaryville.com
Margaret was born April 14, 1914, in Ravenwood, MO to Everett and Katherine (Farley) Lawson.
A graduate of Ravenwood High School, Margaret was a housewife and sales clerk at Place's Store, Maryville.
She married Edgar Ditamore January 27, 1934, in St. Joseph, MO.
Margaret was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Maryville, Herron Homemaking Club and an American Red Cross Volunteer.
Preceding her in death were her parents, husband Edgar Ditamore (July 29, 1995) and sister Verna Mae Coker.
She is survived by her son Marlyn (Carol) Ditamore, Raytown, MO; three grandchildren: Chris (Amy) Roberts and Mike (Amy) Ditamore, all of Lee's Summit and Stephen (Mary Beth) Ditamore, Norfolk, VA; eight great-grandchildren: Tristyn, Skylar and Brendan Roberts, Ryan and Carter Moore, Addison Ditamore, Chloee Riley and Jackson Ditamore and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be 10:00 AM Monday, June 13, 2016, at Price Funeral Home, Maryville.
Funeral Services are 11:00 AM, following the visitation, also at Price Funeral Home. Burial follows at Nodaway Memorial Gardens, Maryville.
Memorials may be made to the Nodaway County Senior Center.
www.pricefuneralhomemaryville.com
Fatal Accident Claims Life of Craig Man
There was a fatal accident Saturday afternoon in Mound City at around 3:53 pm. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 1995 Ford F-350 driven by Dayton Lawson (57) of Craig was southbound on 59 in Mound City when it crossed the center line and went off the east side of 59. The Ford went up an embankment and Lawson was ejected through the front passenger window. The Ford came to rest on its wheels facing south off of the east side of the roadway. Lawson was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident. The vehicle received no damage and was driven from the scene.
Five Injured in Crash Near Eagleville
Five people received minor injuries in a wreck near Eagleville Thursday evening. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2004 Toyota Avalon driven by Daniel Score (29) of Eagleville was southbound on Route W five miles southwest of Eagleville when it failed to negotiate a curve, crossed the center line, overcorrected, and overturned. The vehicle came to rest on its top facing northeast off the west side of the roadway. Also receiving minor injuries were Kaylee Hilburn (14) of Eagleville, Marcus Lopez (13) of Polo, Zane Moad (9) of Eagleville, and Autumn Score (6) of Eagleville. All were wearing seatbelts at the time of the accident. The Avalon was totaled and was towed from the scene.
Two Receive Injuries on Route 148
Two people received injuries in a wreck four miles north of Maryville on 148 Friday evening. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2004 Pontiac Vibe drived by Kelsey Gehlhaar (20) of Humeston (IA) and a 2015 Dodge Durango driven by Kathy Brown (33) of Maryville were southbound on 148 at around 6:17 pm.They were approaching the intersection of 220th street. The Durango was slowing for a vehicle turning east on 220th street and was struck in the rear by the Vibe. The Vibe traveled off the west side of the roadway and came to rest facing south on its wheels. The Durango came to rest facing south on its wheels. Brown received minor injuries in the accident. A passenger, Jillian Brown (8) received moderate injuries and was transported to St. Francis Hospital in Maryville. All were wearing seatbelts at the time of the accident. The Vibe received extensive damage and was towed from the scene. The Durango received moderate damage and was driven from the scene.
Grant City Teen Receives Minor Injuries
A Grant City teen received minor injuries in an accident near Grant City late Friday night/early Saturday morning. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 1996 Dodge driven by Tristan Miller (18) of Grant City was southbound on Route Z five miles southwest of Grant City at around 12:30 am. The vehicle went off the west side of the roadway, struck an embankment, and overturned coming to rest on its top. Miller received minor injuries and was taken by Worth County EMS to St. Francis Hospital in Maryville. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.
Sunday, June 12, 2016
Preparations Continue for Sheridan Rodeo
Preparations are underway for the 2nd Annual Sheridan Rodeo and more changes were made to the arena. A work day was held Sunday morning. A new fence has been put in on the east end. Justin Rush did some mowing on the west end and Doug Brown brought a forklift to move stuff. The bucking chutes will be on the east end instead of the west end; the rodeo company suggested the change, as contestants would not have to deal as much with the sun. The rail in front of the new grandstand was painted, and plastic was put under the grandstand to kill off the weeds.
The Rodeo will be held Friday and Saturday night, June 24th and 25th at the Rodeo Grounds in front of the Sheridan Schoolhouse. Time both nights is 7:30.
The Rodeo will be held Friday and Saturday night, June 24th and 25th at the Rodeo Grounds in front of the Sheridan Schoolhouse. Time both nights is 7:30.
Jim Hanks Memorial Held at Worth County School
The Jim Hanks Memorial was held at the Worth County School Saturday. It was moved to the Elementary Building due to the renovations of the gym. All proceeds from the show went to the Missouri EMS Honor Guard. The EMS Honor Guard is an organization which conducts funerals for EMS members who have passed. They have performed 10 this year, including one for Darrell Cox of Sheridan. They did another in Cameron. They did 19 last year, and 107 overall since 2009.
Members from across the state pay their own way; donations help cover their travel expenses. Donations also cover uniform expenses as uniforms cost around $1,000 for a military-style uniform. If an EMS member is killed in the line of duty, all EMS personnel who can possibly make it are asked to attend the funeral. There was one such funeral in St. Louis this year; donations help cover those expenses as well.
The Rockin' Country Variety Show performed at Saturday's concert. They are a group out of King City run by Rick and Mandy Hontz. They had three generations of members performing Country Western and oldies. If you were unable to make it Saturday, you can still make a donation by contacting Phillip Hanks at (660) 254-3714 or by going to the Missouri EMS Honor Guard website at http://moemsfuneralteam.org/.
Members from across the state pay their own way; donations help cover their travel expenses. Donations also cover uniform expenses as uniforms cost around $1,000 for a military-style uniform. If an EMS member is killed in the line of duty, all EMS personnel who can possibly make it are asked to attend the funeral. There was one such funeral in St. Louis this year; donations help cover those expenses as well.
The Rockin' Country Variety Show performed at Saturday's concert. They are a group out of King City run by Rick and Mandy Hontz. They had three generations of members performing Country Western and oldies. If you were unable to make it Saturday, you can still make a donation by contacting Phillip Hanks at (660) 254-3714 or by going to the Missouri EMS Honor Guard website at http://moemsfuneralteam.org/.
Grant City Woman Charged with DWI
A Grant City woman was charged in Worth County Circuit Court with DWI last Wednesday. Highway Patrol Officer Brad Maudlin alleged in a probable cause statement that Beverly Marci (64) of Grant City was driving north on High Street on March 25th at 11:51 pm over the posted speed limit of 25 miles per hour. Marci allegedly turned on fourth street and then on Thomas before being stopped. Maudlin stated in his affidavit that he detected an odor of intoxicants and that she was in an intoxicated state. He stated that he subsequently performed various field sobriety tests on her. Based on these allegations, Prosecutor David Baird filed charges on June 8th. She was also ticked for failure to drive on the right half of the roadway.
Also, a ticket from Patrol Officer Sigmon alleged that on May 28th at 10:28 pm on 169 and 128th, Trevor Wallace (35) of Gentry operated a vehicle without a valid license. Based on this allegation, Prosecuting Attorney David Baird filed charges on June 7th.
All charges listed are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Also, a ticket from Patrol Officer Sigmon alleged that on May 28th at 10:28 pm on 169 and 128th, Trevor Wallace (35) of Gentry operated a vehicle without a valid license. Based on this allegation, Prosecuting Attorney David Baird filed charges on June 7th.
All charges listed are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Old Defiance Days to Hold Super Farmer Contest
Sheridan Old Defiance Days will have a Super Farmer Contest Saturday, June 25th at 4 pm. Registration will be at 3:45 at the community hall. Teams will consist of two people over 16, one man and one woman. Entry is free; there will be cash prizes to winners. For more information, contact Stefanie Rush at (660) 254-1994.
Mark Wilmes Closing Down
Mark Wilmes is closing down his welding business located north of Ravenwood on Highway E. On Friday morning, nobody was at the shop, the door was locked, and the sign had been taken down. On Monday, the Express received a note from Mr. Wilmes stating that he had closed down. On June 25th, there will be a closeout auction at which he will sell off all his welding equipment, trailers, and some farm machinery starting at 10 am. Lunch will be provided by the Northeast Nodaway Class of 2019. The auction is being run by the Younger Auction Company.
Missouri Annual Methodist Conference Held
The 2016 Missouri Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church was held in Springfield from June 3-6. The theme of the four-day event was "Radical Hospitality: Rooted in Christ." With major controversial issues either having been dealt with at previous annual conferences (such as the sale of camps owned by the Missouri Annual Conference to private entities) or at the United Methodist Church's General Conference (such as the church's stance on homosexuality), this particular annual conference proved to be heavy on reflection and learning, while mostly light on business, save the necessities of keeping the conference going for another year. The 2016 Missouri Annual Conference marked the final conference for Missouri's current resident bishop, Robert Schnase. Because of term limitations, Schnase will be on the move in July, and Missouri will receive a new bishop at that time.
The conference was divided into business meetings, worship times, and times of learning. Those who attended worship heard sermons from a veritable "who's who" of Missouri Methodists, including several pastors of churches recognized as "up and coming," members of the bishop's cabinet, and from Bishop Schnase himself. Interspersed throughout each worship time and workshop was the idea of radical hospitality, and how that idea could be better applied to the current situation of the United Methodist Church, and to the world in general. Approximately 1,500 delegates attended the conference from all across Missouri, and the conference was also livestreamed via the Internet.
If anyone has a specific question on Missouri Annual Conference 2016, please contact Travis Dimmitt. He is the director of the Northwest Wesley Foundation, the United Methodist Campus Ministry at Northwest Missouri State. He can be reached at wesley@nwmissouri.edu.
The conference was divided into business meetings, worship times, and times of learning. Those who attended worship heard sermons from a veritable "who's who" of Missouri Methodists, including several pastors of churches recognized as "up and coming," members of the bishop's cabinet, and from Bishop Schnase himself. Interspersed throughout each worship time and workshop was the idea of radical hospitality, and how that idea could be better applied to the current situation of the United Methodist Church, and to the world in general. Approximately 1,500 delegates attended the conference from all across Missouri, and the conference was also livestreamed via the Internet.
If anyone has a specific question on Missouri Annual Conference 2016, please contact Travis Dimmitt. He is the director of the Northwest Wesley Foundation, the United Methodist Campus Ministry at Northwest Missouri State. He can be reached at wesley@nwmissouri.edu.
Denver CBC Looks for New Faceboard for Schoolhouse
The Denver CBC sought to put new guttering on the Schoolhouse, but couldn't do it after Sean Cameron, the person they had sought to hire for the front portion for $500, advised them that the faceboard was rotting. The challenge will be to find a way to access the 40 foot height. The belfry tower needs work as well. Twelve years ago, Elmer Davidson had worked on the roof.
The CBC is planning to sell postcards with the schoolhouse on it. They also plan to have Tyler Miller put a sign in front of the schoolhouse.
Worth County students Will Engel and Nate Adwell did community service work for the schoolhouse for three hours, helping to sort through stuff.
The next meeting for the Denver CBC will be on July 13th at 3 pm at the schoolhouse.
The CBC is planning to sell postcards with the schoolhouse on it. They also plan to have Tyler Miller put a sign in front of the schoolhouse.
Worth County students Will Engel and Nate Adwell did community service work for the schoolhouse for three hours, helping to sort through stuff.
The next meeting for the Denver CBC will be on July 13th at 3 pm at the schoolhouse.
No Applications for Worth County Economic Developer
The Worth County Progress Organization received no applications for Economic Developer last month. They are advertising for the position again. The county has had high turnover at the position, going through four in the span of a few years. Recently, Tyler Steele resigned to take a construction job at Northwest Missouri State.
The Progress Organization has spearheaded millions of dollars of economic development projects for the last 15 years including the Dollar Store, helping local communities with forming strategic plans, the streetscaping project for Grant City, technical assistance with writing grants, and turning the county into an Enhanced Enterprise Zone. The Progress Organization is also seeking board members. If interested in the Economic Developer's position or in serving as a board member, contact Amber Monticue, Chevy Davidson, Tyler Steele, Bob Hull, Roberta Owens, or Mary Seat.
The Progress Organization has spearheaded millions of dollars of economic development projects for the last 15 years including the Dollar Store, helping local communities with forming strategic plans, the streetscaping project for Grant City, technical assistance with writing grants, and turning the county into an Enhanced Enterprise Zone. The Progress Organization is also seeking board members. If interested in the Economic Developer's position or in serving as a board member, contact Amber Monticue, Chevy Davidson, Tyler Steele, Bob Hull, Roberta Owens, or Mary Seat.
Why Tomatoes Don't Set Fruit
by Tim Baker, University Extension
Occasionally,
I will receive a call from a home gardener who has beautiful tomato plants, but
little if any fruit. They have spent a
lot of time and money and have gorgeous, lush plants. But no fruit.
What went wrong?
There are
several possibilities that can lead to this problem. One of the more common problems is excess
nitrogen. When you see a large,
beautiful tomato plant, with little fruit, this is the likely cause. The tomato is putting all its energy into
vine, and little into fruit. I remember visiting a gardener once that had put
lots of compost into his garden site, and then fertilizer on top of that. He had no tomatoes. In this case, it was too much of a good
thing. Compost is great, but don’t
overdo it.
Temperature
affects tomato fruit set as well. If
it’s too hot or too cold, tomatoes will not set fruit. If night time temperatures are below 55
degrees, tomatoes may not set fruit.
They are, after all, a warm season plant.
But too much
heat can be just as bad, even though tomatoes like warm weather. When daytime highs reach 95 degrees or above,
many tomatoes will not set fruit.
Flowers will still form, but no fruit will set. Just as critical is the night time
temperature. If the temperatures remain
above 70 degrees at night, this can create problems for many tomato varieties.
So
generally, tomatoes like to see night time temperatures between 59 and 68
degrees, and daytime temperatures less than 95 degrees. “But wait a minute,” you say, “I live in
Missouri and want to grow tomatoes.” If
you are having problems with tomato fruit set due to high temperatures, there
is hope. Plant breeders have bred tomato
plants which are more tolerant of high heat, and will set fruit better under
those conditions. Just pick one of those
varieties.
A couple of
other weather-related factors can inhibit tomato fruit set. One is low humidity. In some instances, low humidity, especially
during periods of high temperatures, will cause poor fruit set. I would hazard a guess that low humidity
won’t be a problem for most of Missouri.
But low moisture can certainly be a problem and contribute to low fruit
set. During periods of drought, stressed
tomato plants will not set fruit well.
So be sure to water your tomatoes regularly, but not excessively.
It has also
been found that tomatoes under continuous light do not set fruit well. The key here is to avoid garden sites that
are under lights that remain on all night, such as security lights or street
lights.
Finally, are
your tomatoes getting enough light?
Tomatoes like full sunlight, and while they can tolerate some shade, if
there is too much shade, they many not set fruit well.
Ok, so
you’ve done everything right, and your tomatoes are still not setting
fruit. What can you do? There are sprays based on plant hormones that
will encourage fruit set. Just go to
your local garden center and ask for them.
Capitol Perspectives: Road Funding Haunts State Whose Native Son Built America's Interstate Highways
By Mark D. Hughes
Jefferson City -- the Capital of Missouri -- was sited roughly in the center of the state high on the bluffs along the Missouri River, which served as a transportation avenue for those who would come there for business or government matters. Just over the hill from the great Missouri River and the state Capitol is a highway system that stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and from Canada to Mexico. Visitors to Jefferson City traveling along U.S. Highway 50 may notice a few small signs telling them they are on the "Rex Whitton Expressway." Rex Marion Whitton was a modest, slow-talking Missouri farm boy whose leadership built America's interstate highway system. And he did it by successfully addressing the kind of funding challenges that daunt Missouri's transportation system to this day. Whitton was born on a farm in Jackson County in the late 1890s. He worked his way through the University of Missouri, earning an engineering degree in April 1920. He went to work for the state's highway department after graduation as a levelman, at a salary of just over $100 a month. In 1951 -- after 31 years of steadily working his way up -- he became chief engineer, the top official in Missouri's highway department. In this role he became involved in, and in 1955 president of, the American Association of State Highway Officials. As AASHO president, Whitton represented this key group in debates in Congress that led to the passage of the Interstate Highway program. President Eisenhower signed it into law in sixty years ago this month, on June 29, 1956. The first concrete in the interstate system was poured in Laclede County, Missouri, under a contract let in August 1956 to pave a stretch of Interstate 44.
The federal highway bill of 1958 set aside the interstate pay-as-you go system. Increases were authorized, but not funded. A recession diminished revenues bringing construction to a virtual halt. In 1961, President Kennedy made Whitton head of the Federal Highway Administration. In his first months in office, Whitton headed to Capitol Hill to tackle the funding crisis facing interstate highway construction. After much debate, Congress passed the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1961, which increased revenue and re-established the pay-as-you go system. President Kennedy signed the bill into law on June 29, 1961. The President presented the signature pen to Whitton, who kept it as a treasured possession. Whitton retired from the federal position in 1966 and returned to Missouri where he worked as a civil engineer until retiring in 1975.
In 1981, he died in Kansas City, at age 82. Ten years after Whitton's death, the Interstate Highway System he had persuaded one Congress to enact, and another Congress to successfully fund, was completed. It was 46,000 miles long and involved construction costs estimated at $516 billion. The Interstate Highway System now carries 25 percent of the traffic in the nation and stands as the largest and most ambitious public works project in the history of the United States. This year, the Missouri Senate passed a scaled-down version of a proposal to let voters consider a tax increase to help maintain Missouri highways and bridges. The plan died in the House. Lawmakers approved a transportation budget that was $29 million more than last year -- including $18 million more in General Revenue than the governor requested. MoDot estimates that it will have to let $485 million in new construction contracts each year to maintain the state's highway system at its current level.
It is appropriate that the "Rex Whitton Expressway" honors the man from Missouri whose leadership built our nation's interstate highway system. If a farm boy from Missouri can figure out how to build and finance an interstate highway system across our nation, surely the rest of us in Missouri can figure out how to fund maintaining one across our state.
[After a career in journalism, Mark Hughes became a top, non-partisan policy analyst for Missouri government including the state Senate, state Treasurer's Office and the utility-regulating PSC. He has been an observer and analyst of state government since the administration of Gov. Kit Bond.]
Jefferson City -- the Capital of Missouri -- was sited roughly in the center of the state high on the bluffs along the Missouri River, which served as a transportation avenue for those who would come there for business or government matters. Just over the hill from the great Missouri River and the state Capitol is a highway system that stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and from Canada to Mexico. Visitors to Jefferson City traveling along U.S. Highway 50 may notice a few small signs telling them they are on the "Rex Whitton Expressway." Rex Marion Whitton was a modest, slow-talking Missouri farm boy whose leadership built America's interstate highway system. And he did it by successfully addressing the kind of funding challenges that daunt Missouri's transportation system to this day. Whitton was born on a farm in Jackson County in the late 1890s. He worked his way through the University of Missouri, earning an engineering degree in April 1920. He went to work for the state's highway department after graduation as a levelman, at a salary of just over $100 a month. In 1951 -- after 31 years of steadily working his way up -- he became chief engineer, the top official in Missouri's highway department. In this role he became involved in, and in 1955 president of, the American Association of State Highway Officials. As AASHO president, Whitton represented this key group in debates in Congress that led to the passage of the Interstate Highway program. President Eisenhower signed it into law in sixty years ago this month, on June 29, 1956. The first concrete in the interstate system was poured in Laclede County, Missouri, under a contract let in August 1956 to pave a stretch of Interstate 44.
The federal highway bill of 1958 set aside the interstate pay-as-you go system. Increases were authorized, but not funded. A recession diminished revenues bringing construction to a virtual halt. In 1961, President Kennedy made Whitton head of the Federal Highway Administration. In his first months in office, Whitton headed to Capitol Hill to tackle the funding crisis facing interstate highway construction. After much debate, Congress passed the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1961, which increased revenue and re-established the pay-as-you go system. President Kennedy signed the bill into law on June 29, 1961. The President presented the signature pen to Whitton, who kept it as a treasured possession. Whitton retired from the federal position in 1966 and returned to Missouri where he worked as a civil engineer until retiring in 1975.
In 1981, he died in Kansas City, at age 82. Ten years after Whitton's death, the Interstate Highway System he had persuaded one Congress to enact, and another Congress to successfully fund, was completed. It was 46,000 miles long and involved construction costs estimated at $516 billion. The Interstate Highway System now carries 25 percent of the traffic in the nation and stands as the largest and most ambitious public works project in the history of the United States. This year, the Missouri Senate passed a scaled-down version of a proposal to let voters consider a tax increase to help maintain Missouri highways and bridges. The plan died in the House. Lawmakers approved a transportation budget that was $29 million more than last year -- including $18 million more in General Revenue than the governor requested. MoDot estimates that it will have to let $485 million in new construction contracts each year to maintain the state's highway system at its current level.
It is appropriate that the "Rex Whitton Expressway" honors the man from Missouri whose leadership built our nation's interstate highway system. If a farm boy from Missouri can figure out how to build and finance an interstate highway system across our nation, surely the rest of us in Missouri can figure out how to fund maintaining one across our state.
[After a career in journalism, Mark Hughes became a top, non-partisan policy analyst for Missouri government including the state Senate, state Treasurer's Office and the utility-regulating PSC. He has been an observer and analyst of state government since the administration of Gov. Kit Bond.]
Governor Nixon Signs Missouri Fantasy Sports Consumer Protection Act
Keeping a commitment made in his State of the State address this past January,Gov. Jay Nixon today signed House Bill 1941, the Missouri Fantasy Sports Consumer Protection Act, into law. The Act establishes a number of consumer protection measures and creates a regulatory framework for fantasy sports contests in Missouri.
“When a new frontier of online betting is available at the touch of a screen, we have a responsibility to protect consumers and young people,” Gov. Nixon said. “I appreciate the General Assembly for answering my call to bring forward common-sense consumer protection to make sure fantasy sports gaming in Missouri is operated responsibly and with accountability.”
Under the Missouri Fantasy Sports Consumer Protection Act, the Missouri Gaming Commission will exercise broad regulatory authority over the operators of fantasy sports sites. This authority will include the ability for the Commission to investigate and license operators, as well as take action against operators who violate the Act.
To pay for the investigation and licensing of operators, the Commission will collect an application fee of $10,000 or 10 percent of the fantasy sports operator’s net revenue from Missouri participants for the previous year, whichever is less. In addition to the application fee, licensed operators will be required to pay an annual operation fee of 11.5 percent of its net revenue from Missouri participants for the previous year. The revenue collected from the operation fee will be deposited into the Gaming Proceeds for Education Fund.
The Missouri Fantasy Sports Consumer Protection Act provides numerous consumer protections, including prohibiting employees of fantasy sport companies from playing in contests offered to the public. Other consumer protections include:
§ Prohibiting contests based on college, high school and youth sports;
§ Mandating participant funds be segregated from operating funds and preventing unauthorized withdrawals;
§ Prohibiting participants under the age of 18 and requiring operators to have age-verification procedures;
§ Ensuring that prizes are deposited into a participant’s account within 48 hours;
§ Establishing complaint procedures;
§ Requiring licensed operators to develop and maintain online self-exclusion forms and processes;
§ Imposing advertising restrictions on licensed operators, including restrictions on advertisements targeting those less than 18 years of age, those who have self-excluded themselves, and those on the Commission’s voluntary exclusion list and disassociated persons list;
§ Prohibiting licensed operators from issuing credit to participant s and prohibiting an individual participant from opening multiple accounts;
§ Regulating the use of scripts; and
§ Requiring licensed operators to conduct and pay for annual independent financial audits to ensure compliance with the act.
“When a new frontier of online betting is available at the touch of a screen, we have a responsibility to protect consumers and young people,” Gov. Nixon said. “I appreciate the General Assembly for answering my call to bring forward common-sense consumer protection to make sure fantasy sports gaming in Missouri is operated responsibly and with accountability.”
Under the Missouri Fantasy Sports Consumer Protection Act, the Missouri Gaming Commission will exercise broad regulatory authority over the operators of fantasy sports sites. This authority will include the ability for the Commission to investigate and license operators, as well as take action against operators who violate the Act.
To pay for the investigation and licensing of operators, the Commission will collect an application fee of $10,000 or 10 percent of the fantasy sports operator’s net revenue from Missouri participants for the previous year, whichever is less. In addition to the application fee, licensed operators will be required to pay an annual operation fee of 11.5 percent of its net revenue from Missouri participants for the previous year. The revenue collected from the operation fee will be deposited into the Gaming Proceeds for Education Fund.
The Missouri Fantasy Sports Consumer Protection Act provides numerous consumer protections, including prohibiting employees of fantasy sport companies from playing in contests offered to the public. Other consumer protections include:
§ Prohibiting contests based on college, high school and youth sports;
§ Mandating participant funds be segregated from operating funds and preventing unauthorized withdrawals;
§ Prohibiting participants under the age of 18 and requiring operators to have age-verification procedures;
§ Ensuring that prizes are deposited into a participant’s account within 48 hours;
§ Establishing complaint procedures;
§ Requiring licensed operators to develop and maintain online self-exclusion forms and processes;
§ Imposing advertising restrictions on licensed operators, including restrictions on advertisements targeting those less than 18 years of age, those who have self-excluded themselves, and those on the Commission’s voluntary exclusion list and disassociated persons list;
§ Prohibiting licensed operators from issuing credit to participant s and prohibiting an individual participant from opening multiple accounts;
§ Regulating the use of scripts; and
§ Requiring licensed operators to conduct and pay for annual independent financial audits to ensure compliance with the act.
Opinion -- Hiroshima: Obama vs. Truman
by Dr. L. John Van Til
President Obama’s address at Hiroshima, Japan on May 27 provides us with a good opportunity to examine his foreign policy attitude and contrast it with the views of one of America’s most courageous war-time presidents—Harry S. Truman. This exercise has three steps: a look at Obama’s thought, a briefer summary of Truman’s views, and then a comparison of the two.
First, Obama’s view. Before Obama embarked on his trip to Japan, many Americans had an uneasy feeling that he might apologize to the Japanese people for America’s dropping the atomic bomb on Hiroshima 71 years ago. And what was the basis of this unease?
Many citizens think a first principle of Obama’s foreign policy agenda—since the day he took office—has been to change its direction. It began with his notorious Cairo University speech on June 4, 2009. He inferred that he had a mission to bring peace to the world which could only be accomplished if America apologized for its former foreign policy sins, beginning with Muslims. Thus, with confidence he said early in that talk, “I have come to Cairo to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world.” To emphasize the obvious, he here implies that relationships had been poor before.
In the Cairo talk he also implied that he was especially qualified to speak to Muslims because his father was Kenyan born and for generations his family had been Muslims.
What evidence is there that Obama apologized at Hiroshima? Though the talk rambled, he called the invention of the atomic bomb “a great scientific achievement.” Yet, “the splitting of the atom requires a moral revolution.” Further, “We must change our mindset about war itself.” And, we can also see Hiroshima and Nagasaki as “the start of our own moral awakening.” It’s difficult to avoid the conclusion that Obama here condemns the use of the atomic bomb, his oblique way of apologizing for its use. And, more. If America needs a moral awakening now, apparently it had not been moral during the Truman presidency.
Within hours of being sworn in as president on April 12, 1945 Harry Truman was informed for the first time that an atomic bomb existed and that a test of it would be ready soon. Its destructive power was virtually uncertain. A few days later Truman learned that the Germans were about to surrender. They did on May 7. In the wake of this, Allied leaders met at Potsdam, Germany on July 17 to discuss post-war Europe. There Truman received word that the atomic bomb test was successful. The conference issued an ultimatum to Japan that they agree to an unconditional surrender or face more destruction than had ever been visited upon any nation. Japan ignored this ultimatum.
Returning home, Truman pondered estimates of death and destruction that America was prepared for by conventional war methods—new fire bombs had already killed hundreds of thousands of Japanese. Several million more people would likely die and material destruction would push Japan back towards the Stone Age. Truman, therefore, decided that use of the atomic bomb was the better moral choice: It would actually cause much less death and destruction. The bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. After no reply from Japan to his request for surrender, Truman ordered the bombing of Nagasaki three days later. Unconditional surrender soon followed.
No other American president has ever faced such grave challenges in so short a time. Man of principle that he was, Truman never had any regrets about the moral correctness of this decision.
What happens when we compare the attitudes of Obama and Truman on matters of foreign policy, specifically on the use of the atomic bomb?
Historians of foreign policy use two main categories in their analysis—Idealists and Realists. Idealists as children of the Enlightenment believe that men are essentially good, not hopelessly corrupt, that they can be led to ideal goals by diplomacy and good will by visionary leaders. Realists, on the other hand, have a traditional view of human nature; that is, that men are naturally prone to evil and that government exists to check this tendency. Realists accept present imperfect conditions as unlikely to change easily. Thus, the better part of wisdom is to prepare for what may happen rather than to base action on, and have faith in, what should happen.
What occurs when we examine the views of Obama and Truman in terms of Idealism and Realism?
Clearly, Obama falls into the camp of Idealists. This is evident in the Cairo talk when he said that he was there to bring peace. Implicitly, other American presidents had, of course, failed, or so he thought. His idealism was also evident in his Hiroshima remarks when he said that the splitting of the atom “requires a moral revolution” and at the end of which he called for “a moral awakening.” As noted above, this kind of statement implies that the use of the bomb was immoral. This attitude can only be characterized as “unrealistic,” as idealistic.
To make the difference between these two presidents clear, ask yourself: If Obama had been President in 1945, would he have used the atomic bomb?
-- Dr. L. John Van Til is a fellow for humanities, faith, and culture with The Center for Vision & Values at Grove City College. His latest books are Thinking Cal Coolidge and The Soul of Grove City College: A Personal View.
President Obama’s address at Hiroshima, Japan on May 27 provides us with a good opportunity to examine his foreign policy attitude and contrast it with the views of one of America’s most courageous war-time presidents—Harry S. Truman. This exercise has three steps: a look at Obama’s thought, a briefer summary of Truman’s views, and then a comparison of the two.
First, Obama’s view. Before Obama embarked on his trip to Japan, many Americans had an uneasy feeling that he might apologize to the Japanese people for America’s dropping the atomic bomb on Hiroshima 71 years ago. And what was the basis of this unease?
Many citizens think a first principle of Obama’s foreign policy agenda—since the day he took office—has been to change its direction. It began with his notorious Cairo University speech on June 4, 2009. He inferred that he had a mission to bring peace to the world which could only be accomplished if America apologized for its former foreign policy sins, beginning with Muslims. Thus, with confidence he said early in that talk, “I have come to Cairo to seek a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world.” To emphasize the obvious, he here implies that relationships had been poor before.
In the Cairo talk he also implied that he was especially qualified to speak to Muslims because his father was Kenyan born and for generations his family had been Muslims.
What evidence is there that Obama apologized at Hiroshima? Though the talk rambled, he called the invention of the atomic bomb “a great scientific achievement.” Yet, “the splitting of the atom requires a moral revolution.” Further, “We must change our mindset about war itself.” And, we can also see Hiroshima and Nagasaki as “the start of our own moral awakening.” It’s difficult to avoid the conclusion that Obama here condemns the use of the atomic bomb, his oblique way of apologizing for its use. And, more. If America needs a moral awakening now, apparently it had not been moral during the Truman presidency.
Within hours of being sworn in as president on April 12, 1945 Harry Truman was informed for the first time that an atomic bomb existed and that a test of it would be ready soon. Its destructive power was virtually uncertain. A few days later Truman learned that the Germans were about to surrender. They did on May 7. In the wake of this, Allied leaders met at Potsdam, Germany on July 17 to discuss post-war Europe. There Truman received word that the atomic bomb test was successful. The conference issued an ultimatum to Japan that they agree to an unconditional surrender or face more destruction than had ever been visited upon any nation. Japan ignored this ultimatum.
Returning home, Truman pondered estimates of death and destruction that America was prepared for by conventional war methods—new fire bombs had already killed hundreds of thousands of Japanese. Several million more people would likely die and material destruction would push Japan back towards the Stone Age. Truman, therefore, decided that use of the atomic bomb was the better moral choice: It would actually cause much less death and destruction. The bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. After no reply from Japan to his request for surrender, Truman ordered the bombing of Nagasaki three days later. Unconditional surrender soon followed.
No other American president has ever faced such grave challenges in so short a time. Man of principle that he was, Truman never had any regrets about the moral correctness of this decision.
What happens when we compare the attitudes of Obama and Truman on matters of foreign policy, specifically on the use of the atomic bomb?
Historians of foreign policy use two main categories in their analysis—Idealists and Realists. Idealists as children of the Enlightenment believe that men are essentially good, not hopelessly corrupt, that they can be led to ideal goals by diplomacy and good will by visionary leaders. Realists, on the other hand, have a traditional view of human nature; that is, that men are naturally prone to evil and that government exists to check this tendency. Realists accept present imperfect conditions as unlikely to change easily. Thus, the better part of wisdom is to prepare for what may happen rather than to base action on, and have faith in, what should happen.
What occurs when we examine the views of Obama and Truman in terms of Idealism and Realism?
Clearly, Obama falls into the camp of Idealists. This is evident in the Cairo talk when he said that he was there to bring peace. Implicitly, other American presidents had, of course, failed, or so he thought. His idealism was also evident in his Hiroshima remarks when he said that the splitting of the atom “requires a moral revolution” and at the end of which he called for “a moral awakening.” As noted above, this kind of statement implies that the use of the bomb was immoral. This attitude can only be characterized as “unrealistic,” as idealistic.
To make the difference between these two presidents clear, ask yourself: If Obama had been President in 1945, would he have used the atomic bomb?
-- Dr. L. John Van Til is a fellow for humanities, faith, and culture with The Center for Vision & Values at Grove City College. His latest books are Thinking Cal Coolidge and The Soul of Grove City College: A Personal View.
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