Obituary -- Joe Everhart 1942-2019

Joseph Raymond Everhart was born April 21, 1942 to William Ezra and Mary Iva (Weatherman) Everhart at a farmhouse in Bedison, Missouri.  He attended Udora Country School from first grade to eighth grade.  He then attended high school at Quitman for ninth and tenth grade and later attended Clearmont for eleventh and twelfth grade and graduated in 1960.  He was baptized in the Methodist Church.  He was the youngest of 9 children.

Joe met his wife, Linda Johnson, at a barn dance in rural Bedford and they were married June 1, 1963 at the Blockton Methodist Church.  To this union, two daughters were born: Valerie Dee and Carla Jo.
Joe worked as a cook at a hotel in Clarinda after high school.  He later worked various jobs such as construction, building bridges and roads, running heavy equipment, worked on the railroad as a machine operator for the Chicago Northwestern, became an MFA fertilizer plant manager, farmed at home, and finally worked as a correctional officer in Clarinda and Maryville.

Joe never met a stranger and would always greet you with a smile, a fun-loving personality, and a peppermint.  He was known for his wonderful bear hugs and “whisker rubs”.  He loved his friends, family and his special pet, Sissy, dearly.  He was a 54-year member of the Masonic Lodge.  He enjoyed his music, where he loved to sing, dance, and play his guitar, especially at family gatherings.  Joe would enjoy the outdoors where he would go golfing, fishing and hunting.  He could be found reading a western book or playing card games with his friends and family.  Farming was not only an occupation for Joe but a passion.

Joe was a hard-working, outgoing man.  He will be missed by his family and his many friends.  We will miss his laughter, his love, his hugs, and his relentless teasing. 

Joe passed away at his home in Athelstan, Iowa with family by his side. He was preceded in death by his parents; William and Mary Everhart; parents-in-law Carl and Helen Johnson; brothers William Everhart, Jr., Jesse Everhart and Robert Everhart; sisters Anna Mae Banks, Ermil Vance, and Irene Nelson; brothers-in-law Jim Lawrence, Doyle Lawrence, and Ivan Groff; nieces and nephews Brian Lawrence, David Everhart, and Jeannie Vorhies.

Joe is survived by his wife Linda of the home; daughters Valerie (J.D.) Hensley of Lenox and Carla (Ken) Boenish of Winter Park, Colorado; grandchildren Callin (Nika) Cummings, Autumn (Chris) Carparelli, Eric (Kylie) Hensley, Lauren Hensley, and Jared Hensley; great-grandchildren Rayne Cummings and Nelli Carparelli; brother Eldon (Barb) Everhart; sister Phyllis Morrison; sisters-in-law Marvel Melvin and Sharon Groff; brother-in-law Rick (Alice) Johnson and numerous nieces and nephews.

Obituary -- Michael McElfresh 1954-2019

Michael William McElfresh, 65, of Hopkins, Missouri passed away May 30th 2019, at home surrounded by his family. Michael was born April 15, 1954 in Norfolk Virginia to John Allen McElfresh and Margaret Mary James McElfresh. Michael was raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Rosendale, Missouri.

Michael married Joyce Ilene Oberhauser on June 30th, 1979. They had 2 daughters, Kelly Marie and Katherine Colleen. Michael was a boiler operator in Philadelphia until his move to Missouri in 1996. He then worked as a boiler operator for Northwest Missouri State University and eventually working for Maryville Corrections Center. Mike loved the Philadelphia Eagles along with the Philadelphia Flyers and his dogs Tyson, Max, and Bear.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents John and Margaret McElfresh, brother John McElfresh, Nephew Scott Oliver and in laws Billy and Pauline Oberhauser.

He leaves behind his wife, Joyce of Hopkins, Daughters Kelly Dailey, Hopkins, and Katie McElfresh (Dallas), Bedford, 4 grandchildren Makayla, Shai, Damian and Adyson Dailey; Sisters, Diane (Steve) Oliver, Springfield (MO) and Linda Murphy, Saint Joseph, and Many nieces, nephews and friends.

Mr. McElfresh has been cremated under the care of Price Funeral Home, Maryville, Missouri. There will be no visitation or services held per his request.

Jacy Gabriel Receives Degree from Culver-Stockton

Culver-Stockton College celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2019 during its 163rd annual commencement ceremony on the quad on May 11. Degrees were conferred by Kelly M. Thompson, president of Culver-Stockton College, to 223 undergraduate and graduate students who have successfully or will successfully complete graduation requirements.

Jacy Gabriel of Grant City, MO, earned a bachelor of arts degree in Music.

Obituary -- Neal "Bear" Groom 1950-2019

Neal Wayne “Bear” Groom, 68, Denver, Missouri died Thursday, May 30, 2019 at the Maryville Living Center, Maryville, Missouri.

Bear was born December 7, 1950 the son of Wade W. “Dub” and Evelyn Faye (Richards) Groom at the family home in Worth, Missouri. They preceded him in death.

Bear attended the Worth Elementary School and was a 1970 graduate of Worth County R-I, Grant City, Missouri.  He received certification as a Peace Officer in 2002.

He was united in marriage to Susan Knight, March 30, 1971 in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico.  To this union one son was born Neal Travis Groom.

Bear was a friend to all who knew him.  He had owned and operated Groom Plumbing and Wiring for many years in the community.  Later he served as Worth County Sheriff from 2001-2008.

His memberships included, Lion’s Club, Worth Church of Christ, Missouri Sheriff’s Association and he was a member of the former Denver Volunteer Fire Department.

His survivors include:  his wife, Susan of the home, Denver, one son N. Travis Groom, Kansas City, Kansas, one granddaughter Brighid Groom, Higginsville, Missouri, sister Billie (Don) Carpenter, Grant City, brother Gene (Lori) Groom, Sheridan, Missouri, sister Teresa (Wade) Jensen, Panora, Iowa, nieces, nephews, and a host of other friends and loved ones.

Per his wishes, Mr. Groom has been cremated under the direction of the Andrews-Hann Funeral Home, Grant City.  A celebration of Neal’s Life will be held 10:30 AM Tuesday, June 4, 2019 at the Allendale Community Room, Allendale, Missouri.  Please plan on sharing any memories of Bear at the service. Memorial may be given to the Worth Church of Christ, Worth, Missouri.

Private family inurnment will be at a later date.

Governor Parson Signs Bill to Overturn Worth County Health Ordinance

On Friday, Governor Mike Parson signed Senate Bill 391 into law. The bill, championed by Sen. Mike Bernskoetter, Rep. Mike Haffner, and many agriculture organizations, creates  what Governor Parson says is a consistent regulatory framework for producers and encourages investment in our rural communities.

“Senate Bill 391 is a big win for Missouri farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses,” Governor Parson said. “I applaud Senator Bernskoetter, Representative Haffner, and House and Senate leaders for sending a strong signal that we support the next generation of Missouri agriculture. We’ve now opened the doors that will allow Missouri to lead the way in meeting a growing world food demand and ensure we keep more agriculture production in our state, strengthening Missouri’s number one industry.”

State Representatives Allen Andrews and J. Eggleston and State Senator Dan Hegeman voted for the measure.

The bill overturns the health ordinance of Worth County and 19 other counties. Opponents of the bill said that the measure would reduce local control, allow concentrated animal feeding operations to build facilities, and that the Missouri DNR did not have adequate jurisdiction to regulate such operations.

Courthouse News for May 29th, 2019

On May 20th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Mathew Flowers (31) of Albany alleging Speeding (26+ mph), No Plates, and DWI.

On May 20th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Bradley Sheeley (28) of Stanberry alleging Driving While Revoked.

On May 20th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Debra LeBow (61) of Parnell alleging No Insurance.

On May 21st, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Catherine Temple (22) of Excelsior Springs alleging Stealing.

On May 21st, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Caitlin Evans (21) of Columbia (MO) alleging Stealing.

On May 21st, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Joel Kollitz (21) of Maryville alleging Stealing.

On May 21st, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Darrell Charles (52) of Skidmore alleging DWI and Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway.

On May 21st, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Dana Edwards (56) of Mound City alleging Property Damage.

On May 21st, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against John McCrary (69) of Albany alleging Prior Offender Illegally Residing Within 1,000 feet of School or Child Care Facility (Felony).

On May 21st, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against William Madison (34) of Bethany alleging Making a False Report.

On May 22nd, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Jay Rasmussen (30) of Bethany alleging Assault (Felony).

On May 23rd, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Kari Miller (36) of Conception Junction alleging Driving While Revoked and Failure to Register.

On May 23rd, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Kaleb Clipson (17) of Ravenwood alleging Minor in Possession of Alcohol, Minor in Possession of Tobacco, Violation of Intermediate Driver’s License Permit, and No Head Lamp.

The Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office issued the following news release on its Facebook Page:
On May 23rd, a Nodaway County Jury returned guilty verdicts on multiple counts of child molestation involving three different female victims. Jerry Lee VanPelt, of Hopkins, Missouri, was found guilty of the following charges;
One count of Child molestation in the first degree, having sexual contact with a child less than fourteen years old, a class A felony.
One count of Child molestation in the first degree, knowingly having sexual contact with a child less than fourteen years old. A class B felony.
Two counts of Child molestation in the fourth degree, knowingly having sexual contact with a child less than seventeen years of age. A class E felony.
The maximum sentence for these charges is 53 years.
Sentencing will be at a later date. VanPelt remains in the custody of the Nodaway County Sheriff.
This investigation was conducted by Nodaway County Sheriff Randy Strong, who would like to recognize others that brought this case to light and who provided assistance and support to law enforcement and to the victims: School Councilor Kit Meiners, School Resource Officer Sgt. Rick Smail, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, The Women’s and Children’s Shelter Victim’s Advocates, Missouri Children's Division and Voices of Courage.
Thank you!
Sheriff Randy Strong

On May 23rd, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Daegan Jones (20) of Elmo alleging Minor in Possession and Possession of Fake ID.

On May 23rd, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Robert Robertson (68) of Maryville alleging No Valid License (2nd Offense).

On May 24th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Josiah Brown (19) of Bethany in Harrison County on a charge of Failure to Appear (Failure to Register).

On May 24th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Sara Service (26) of Blythedale in Worth County on charges of Speeding (16-19 mph), No Insurance, and No Valid License.

On May 24th, a power outage in Taylor County knocked out phone service to the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office. 911 calls were routed to other counties. The power remained on in Worth County. The outage lasted two hours before power was restored.

On May 24th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Dawson White (18) of Sheridan alleging DWI and Failure to Display Tab.

On May 25th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Ronald Bain (48) of Maryville in Nodaway County on a Johnson County Warrant for Failure to Appear on a Bad Check Charge, a Cole County Warrant for Failure to Appear on a Bad Check Charge, and Failure to Stop.

On May 25th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Sandra Sonderegger (43) of Union Star in Gentry County on charges of DWI, Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway, and Failure to Register.

John Walker, 22, of Goldendale, WA, was arrested on May 25th, 2019, in the 200 block of Pearl Street in Bedford on a active warrant that was placed by Washington State Department of Corrections for Escape from Custody on an original charge of Possession of a Controlled Substance. He is currently being held at the Taylor County Sheriff's Office until he is extradited to the state of Washington.

Kai Knoke, 22, of Corning was arrested on May 25, 2019 in the 600 block of Lafayette Street in New Market. He was charged with Domestic Abuse Assault and is being held at the Taylor County Jail on no bond pending an appearance with the magistrate.

Charges listed are mere allegations. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty it is to determine guilt or innocence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Decoration Day Drew Many in 1900’s in Grant City

This Decoration Day picture, taken between 1905 and 1910, was taken in the Worth County Courtyard on the south end. It was posted on the Worth County Progress Organization’s Facebook Page. A crowd would listen to an orator, then they would go and decorate the graves. Back in those days, there was a sidewalk that ran all the way from Grant City to the cemetery. There was a swinging bridge that crossed the creek west of town. Bill Mozingo recalled that there was a swinging bridge across Middle Fork, south of Gentry. The first such event was organized in 1879, when the citizens met in the Courtyard, then marched to the cemetery to decorate the Civil War Veterans’ graves.

Four Receive All-District 16 Honors for Baseball

The following local athletes made All District 16 Baseball Honors – Chet Spire (NEN), Ethan Adwell (NEN), Spencer Weir (NEN), and Arron Coleman (North Nodaway). Out of those players, all but Adwell graduate. Platte Valley had two underclassmen, Trevor McQueen and Dalton Luke, named; they will be solid again next year. North Nodaway, with only two seniors this year, will seek to improve, while NEN will seek to defend its district title and its six-time conference title.

Alicia Sobotka Promoted to Master Sergeant

Recently, Northeast Nodaway grad Alicia (Welch) Sobotka was promoted to Senior Master Sergeant, the May 26th edition of the St. Joseph News-Press reported. She serves in the 139th Airlift Wing in St. Joseph. They did a feature and multimedia video about her. She has served there since 2001, and is one of three people to supervise the mechanics for the division. They are responsible for maintaining the wings’ C-130 Hercules crafts, which are responsible for troop transports, air refueling, and can operate as gunships. She is the first woman to hold that rank for the wing’s maintenance group.

Water Outage for Some Worth County Rural Water Customers

Heavy rains washed out water service to parts of the Worth County Rural Water District service area, KQ2 reported Sunday. The outage affected people who live east and south of 170th Road and Route C. Once the water is back on, there will be a boil advisory in place. Further rain fell overnight Sunday night and Monday morning, with a Severe Thunderstorm Warning issued at one point. Service was restored between 3 and 4 pm Monday afternoon.

1945 Sheridan High School Problems: Girls in Jeans/Overalls, Boys Behavior, Trashing the Library, Speaking Too Long

Sheridan High School back in 1945 had a ton of problems – girls wearing jeans or overalls, boys’ behavior, trashing the library, and kids loving the sound of their own voices – at least if one peruses the pages of the Kats Meow, the Sheridan High School student paper.

The February 28th Kats Meow, the Sheridan student paper, had a whole discussion about the dress girls were wearing. Some girls were wearing dresses still, while other girls were taking to dressing in jeans or overalls. During the World War II years, the material to make clothes was in short supply, meaning more and more women were taking to wearing pants or overalls as the price of clothing skyrocketed. Many people were dirt poor. “We grew up poor, but that was OK,” said Lola (Hibbs) Haley, who was at the Sheridan Alumni Reunion. But the dress battles led to one situation where one boy, interviewed by the Kats Meow, who said that his sister kept borrowing his clothes until they wore out.

Before political opinion polling became popular, the Kats Meow was already conducting its own polling. Their surveys showed that the boys liked it better when girls wore dresses. Some girls wore slacks to show support for the troops; World War II was still going on. Others did so out of rebellion – they felt like they didn’t have to seek boys approval for what they wore. Others found that pants or overalls were comfortable.

The same issue of the Kats Meow surveyed girls about the behavior of boys. Overwhelmingly, the girls rated the boys behavior as either “average” or “below average.” Naturally, the student paper did a writeup with dating etiquette tips for boys picking girls up on a date.

The January 26th issue of the Kats Meow talked about how the library was constantly being trashed. The library itself was a good one for a tiny high school like Sheridan’s – a good variety of books and magazines. The problem was that kids would constantly put books out of order, tear up magazines, interrupt someone who was ahead of them in line (especially if they were procrastinating and frantically trying to get homework done at the last minute), and not returning property, which necessitated searches of the school grounds. Study halls were another problem area that year, especially kids who allegedly loved the sound of their own voice; they would ask for permission to speak about something, and then take the entire period to speak, never considering the fact that there might be others who might have something to say.

The biggest strength that Sheridan Alumni President Janet Gladstone took from the school was its pride. Many student pep clubs back then would cheer when their teams were winning, but Sheridan’s was loud and boisterous win or lose. The year of 1945 was a perfect example; despite a long year for both the boys and girls teams, the student section would be loud and noisy regardless. One night, the school put on a fundraiser against Polio for its game against Guilford; admission was 15 cents for students and 25 cents for adults. There were two basketball games, one volleyball game, and a band concert; Guilford won handily.

The Bearcats came heartbreakingly close against Barnard, then known as the Bombers – they lost 9-6. That game was scoreless in the final quarter. The girls lost 17-14 after being down 10-4 at the half. Other games were lopsided – Sheridan was always one of the smallest schools that competed. They lost to Skidmore 29-8, to Martinsville 42-12, and to Parnell 35-18. Parnell was also known as the Bombers.

Before Wayne Winstead came along in 1960 and led the Bearcats to a district title, Sheridan had a coaching carousel. But for Larry Dowis, it was a blessing in disguise, as he was able to learn something from each of them and teach his son Rob, along with other kids, the fundamentals of sports, as he recounted at the Alumni Reunion this year.

For all the problems and gripes in the Kats Meow, there were a lot of students whose academic achievements were recognized in the pages of the paper. On the Honor Roll listed in the paper for Sheridan were Donna Caldwell, Jack Ray, Elbert Grimit, Joyce Dowis, Lloyd Grimit, Deloris Lynch, Norna Howes, Kathleen Wells, Charles Pratt, Wanda Maudlin, Elnora Hennegin, and Anna McAlister. People making the Honor Roll had to have no grade below an S-.

Honorable Mention students as listed in the January 28th, 1945 Kats Meow were Dean Auten, Carl Swart, Earl Graham, Orren Lester, Carl Parsons, Eleanor Stoner, Russell Findley, Bud Allee, and Madonna Runyon.

Top students were Deloris Lynch, Anna McAlister, and Charles Pratt.

The war was still going on, but the school and community were preparing for victory day. The Christian Church was having a revival, and the speaker gave a talk to the school, telling the students that Christianity was not for sissies. Recent grads, Private Jimmy Aldrich and Patty Straight came back to give talks to a student assembly. Aldrich talked about life in the military, while Straight talked about life as a freshman in college.

Sophomores were studying “Rising of the Moon” by Lady Augusta Gregory. It was a book about the Irish struggles of the early 1900’s against British rule. She believed in a unified Ireland and used mythology, folklore, and other cultural devices to bring people together. The characters openly wrestled with their duty towards the British state and their desire for a national Ireland. The junior class was engaging in typing contests against each other. Jack Ray won the speed tying contest, with Ruth Stevenson coming second and Bill McGuiness coming third. Doris Stone came in first in the accuracy portion, with only seven errors. McGinness was second and Stevenson was third.

The 2016 elections brought Fake News to the forefront of the political conversation, but in 1945, we are sure there was some fake news floating around the halls of Sheridan High School. The Snooper was an anonymous gossip columnist who dished out the scoop on all the high school students in Sheridan. One such entry in the January 28th, 1945 issue read, “Eldon Hart thinks it’s too bad when Wanda Maudlin doesn’t get on the bus of a morning. And see, wasn’t that bad when we went to the Grant City Tournament Thursday night? You’d better watch Lloyd Grimit, Eldon!” Hart, who didn’t remember the episode at the Alumni Reunion, said, “We always looked forward to the paper coming out.”

Even as the country was on the verge of triumph over the Germans and Japanese, the clouds were hanging over Sheridan High School. Numbers at the elementary levels were so low that the elementary grades went together. Honor rolls were kept for the elementary grades as well as the high school grades. On the 3rd & 4th grade honor rolls were Frances Allee, Sonny Beezley, Martha Deardorff, Kathleen Goff, Jackie Houk, Jackie Fisher, Beulah Allee, Lavona Black, Norma Boyd, and Nadine Houk. On the 5th and 6th grade honor rolls were Eugene Houk, Larry Boyd, Johnny Leedom, Cherrie Churchill, Gary Cook, Marilyn Rinehart, Frankie Hooker, and Barbara Caldwell. In the Primary Grade, consisting of 1st and 2nd graders, Gary Graham, Dickie Stalling, Ruth Minor, Norman Runyon, Mary Etta Boyd, Robert Finch, and Billy Showalter all made the honor roll.

First and second graders were dancing to songs from “Little Black Sambo,” a children’s book that was popular at the time, and was a real hit at the school. It was a story about a young boy in India whose parents give him some fancy clothes – a red coat, blue trousers, a green umbrella, and purple and crimson shoes. He goes for a walk in the jungle and meets tigers who wish to eat him. But the boy is up to the challenge; he gives each of them a piece of his clothing. The tigers get into a fight over who is the grandest and melt into a pool of clarified butter. The boy reclaims his clothes and takes the butter home to his mother, and the butter is enough to make 169 pancakes. It tied in perfectly with a column Ernest Stalling, the Superintendent at Sheridan in 1945, wrote about confidence. “Through confidence has been built the world of business and finance. Upon confidence rests the welfare of government, the fate of armies, and the destiny of mankind. Confidence is the foundation of civilization, for without it, man’s world would fall about his head,” he wrote in the January 28th, 1945 Kats Meow.

There were several elementary schools that fed into the main school that were still open. The Kats Meow would feature one each month. The January 28th issue featured Luteston; on the honor rolls were Vonita Porter, Glenn Dukes, Gayland Howes, Franklin Dowis, Garvin Porter, and Byron Stoner. Each of these schools was a community gathering center, and there would be community dinners and other activities each month. But these schools were swallowed up in a few years, and much was lost. We asked the late Myrtle Risser about life in rural schools, and she said that the biggest thing was “the love we had for each other.” Teachers were able to work with students as individuals, and the kids would help each other to succeed in assignments.

Will Runde Becomes ASE Certified Car Mechanic

On Thursday, Worth County grad Will Runde successfully completed a two year course in Automotive Technology at Northwest Technical School. In the process, he became an ASE Certified Mechanic. The ASE is a national non-profit organization which has certified 300,000 people in the US and parts of Canada.

Birth Announcement – Theodore Allen Andrews

Theodore Allen Andrews was born to Lauren (Null) Andrews and Mitch Andrews on Wednesday, May 22nd weighing 6 pounds 15 ounces and was 20.5 inches tall. Both Lauren and Mitchell are graduates from Worth County. Grandparents are Allen and Robin Andrews of Grant City and Theran and Cindy Null of Denver. Great-Grandparents are John C. and Jo Andrews and Don and Lois Null. Mitchell and Lauren live out in Colorado, where Mitchell is a firefighter and Lauren is a nurse.

For Many Years, Pleasant Hill Baptist Church was Thriving Rural Church

For many years, the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church was a thriving rural church located between Allendale and Mount Ayr on the Missouri/Iowa State Line. The church was built in 1890 on the Jim Hunt Farm. Early day ministers were Rev. Glenn and Rev. George Hensley.

The congregation nearly folded during the World War I years; at one point, there were no services for several years. It was then sold to the Assembly of God and moved to the location between Allendale and Mount Ayr, where Route T is. The first minister of the Assembly of God congregation was Kelly Campbell.

As late as 1950, Pleasant Hill was a thriving congregation. Sunday School attendance was as high as 75, and the pastor was Rev. Cecil Hardy. Judy Claypool, on the Worth County Progress Organization’s Facebook page, recalled that the Buck family ministered there, and that she loved the VBS program that they put on every year. Lorna Carter remembered giving her heart to Jesus in that congregation. She recalled that they had night services as well.

Claypool recalled she and her friends piling into Allie Wilkinson’s car and riding to church. “I don’t care how many of us there were, we all made it to church, piled on each other’s lap.” “It is doubtful if any church in this section can equal this record,” wrote the Times-Tribune reporter at the time.

Mike Duley Retires from Postal Service

Mike Duley has retired from the US Postal Service, effective April 17th. He served as the Grant City Postmaster for the last several years. He served in the USPS for 23 years and received a service award from the Postal Service. “I never thought I would be retired at this age, but my health has changed that,” said Duley on his Facebook page. “I met a lot of good people, made a lot of good friends. I miss my employees; we have a good bunch of people who care about your mail.”

Kaylee McElvain Accepted to UMKC Summer Scholar Program

On Friday, Kaylee McElvain, now a senior at Worth County, was accepted into the University of Missouri-Kansas City Summer Scholar’s Program. She is interested in pursuing medicine or pharmacy on graduation. She will be shadowing physicians and observing the ER at Truman Medical Center. She will also get time in medical simulation labs and listen to physician lectures. She has maintained a 3.98 Grade Point Average at Worth County, including college credit courses. Her aunt, Sherri James, runs Sherri’s Pharmacy in Grant City.

Haley Craig 16th at Nationals

Shamrock and Bearcat thrower Haley Craig ended her career in Texas Friday in Kingsville at the NCAA Track & Field Championships. She came into the Shot Put seeded 21st, but placed 16th, throwing 151.3 feet into the wind. She showed continuous improvement throughout the season, qualifying for nationals.

NEN Hope Foundation Raises $1,120 for Teachers

Mrs. Katie Jenkins was awarded an NEN HOPE Foundation grant in the amount of $60 to purchase three light pads for the Art Department. 

Mrs. Barb Bredlow, 6th grade and science teacher, received an award in the amount of $60 for the purchase of two digital balances.

Mr. Philip Doty, NEN Ag teacher, has been awarded an NEN HOPE Foundation grant in the amount of $300 to purchase a commercial food dehydrator for the Agricultural Department. 

Ms. Amanda Sutton, music instructor, was awarded $700 to purchase a Yamaha Music Synthesizer to be used in all of the music classes.

In addition to these awards, the Foundation also sent over $185 to Heifer International in compliance with the by-laws of the foundation. 

King City Woman Seriously Injured, Life Flighted After Pickup Strikes Lawn Mower

A King City woman was seriously injured and lifeflighted Thursday afternoon after a pickup struck a lawn mower in King City at around 3:20 pm. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2002 Dodge Ram 3500 driven by Douglas Delaney (60) of King City was westbound on Route Z and a John Deere Lawn Mower driven by Cindy Anders (69) of King City was northbound. The Patrol says the lawn mower entered the roadway and traveled into the path of the Dodge Ram. The front side of the Ram struck the lawn mower, and Anders was ejected from the lawn mower. She received serious injuries and was life flighted to Mosaic Life Care. Delaney was not injured in the wreck.

NEN School Board Accepts Resignation, Rehires Secretary

The Northeast Nodaway School Board accepted a resignation and rehired a secretary at their regular meeting last Thursday, May 16th. The board accepted the resignation of Linda Mattson. The board also voted to rehire Kristin Sybert for Principal Secretary. The board also voted to name Brenda Dougan the Special Education Director. The votes were 6-0, with Board Member Victor West absent from the meeting.

Principal and Interim Superintendent Jason McDowell presented the pricing recommendations from Lunchtime Solutions, which handles the school lunch program at Northeast. The board raised adult lunch prices by 60 cents, elementary lunch prices by 15 cents, and elementary breakfast prices by 10 cents.

Enrollment at the high school was at 108 and 100 at the elementary for a total of 208 students. Attendance was 96.21% for high school and 97.92% for elementary.

The CTA held an End of Year Celebration on May 22nd, and faculty and staff were recognized for retiring and for years of service. The CTA will have a Taco John’s fundraiser on June 6th from 5 pm to 7 pm. The PTO recognized the teachers for Teacher Recognition Week.

Interim Superintendent Jason McDowell reported that the roof was leaking and that he was in the process of obtaining quotes. The school is also in the process of obtaining quotes for carpet for the Kindergarten and first grade rooms.

Obituary -- Eleonore Euritt 1926-2019

Eleonore Warden Euritt was born July 5, 1926 in Heidelberg, Germany, population 140,000, the only child to Alois and Luise (Mack) Schonet.

She grew up during World War II. Eleonore received her education in Heidelberg and attended the University in Heidelberg.

On April 17, 1948, Eleonore married 1st Lieutenant Glenn A Warden U.S. Army in Heidelburg. Together they left from Bremerhafen, Germany on an Army transport ship with 1,650 enlisted men and officers. Three days before they arrived in New York, out in the Atlantic Ocean, they got in a hurricane. This was Eleonore’s first experience of a storm. On September 6, 1948, after 11 days at sea, they arrived in New York City. They established their home in Blockton, Iowa. Both Eleonore & Glenn were in real estate and insurance. In 1955, Eleonore was offered a job with the Blockton Oil Company as a bookkeeper. She was in charge of the propane department. In 1960 the business was sold to Northern Natural Gas Company out of Omaha, Nebraska. Eleonore continued to work for them for 21 years. To this union one son was born Edward G Warden.  Glenn passed away in 1975.

In 1977 she married Marion E Euritt. Marion and Eleonore loved to travel. They went to Heidelberg and Eleonore showed Marion the house she lived in. For 13 winters they enjoyed Winterhaven, Florida. In her retirement years, Eleonore’s hobbies included needle point and stain glass crafting. She loved caring for her beautiful roses, lilies, and irises that grew abundantly in her backyard. Marion passed away in 1996.

Eleonore passed away on May 23, 2019. Preceding Eleonore in death are her parents; her husbands; and grandson Matthew Warden in 2010.

Left to honor her memory are her son Edward G Warden and wife Sandra and grandson Ryan Warden; stepdaughters Marie (Phil) Burmeister and Marla Kay (Dan) Roe; step grandchildren and their families, Jeff (Sonya) Burmeister and their daughter Dylan Burmeister, Jeremy (Lyndsey) Burmeister and their son Owen Burmeister, Michael (Danica) Roe and their children Kaidaen, Keagan, Kolten Roe.

Funeral Services will be Saturday, June 1st at United Baptist Presbyterian Church in Mount Ayr at 11 am. Pastors Mike Maddy and Bill Armstrong will officiate. Burial will be in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Blockton. Memorials may be made to the Ringgold County Hospital in Mount Ayr. Arrangements are under the direction of Armstrong Funeral Home in Mount Ayr.

Obituary -- Ocie Hughes 1930-2019

Ocie Lenora (Blake) Hughes of Creston, Iowa, formerly of Grant City, Missouri, passed away May 23, 2019 at the Greater Regional Hospice House in Creston, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to Asaracare Hospice in Grant City, Missouri or EveryStep Hospice in Creston, Iowa.

Ocie was born February 2, 1930 at home in Grant City, Missouri, to Ocie Nile (Long) and Wade Raymond Blake..  Her brother, Marion, was older and the two of them were very close. She graduated from Worth County RI and Gard Business School in St. Joseph, Missouri.  Ocie worked at Citizens’ Bank until two of her daughters were born and then returned to the bank when they were teenagers.  She retired in 1994 from the same establishment.

In 1952, Ocie and Robert Eugene Hughes were married and raised their family in Grant City.  Ocie was an active member of the Grant City Baptist Church until she moved to Creston, Iowa, in 2005, to be closer to family. In 2015, she moved to Crest Haven Nursing & Rehab.

Surviving Ocie are her two daughters, Judy Hopkins and Karen (John) Dibel, grandchildren Sherri (Mike) Hinrichs, Josh (Beth) Hopkins and Sara (Matthew) Konen; five great-grandsons and one great-granddaughter, brother-in-law James (Annie) Hughes, sisters-in-law Marjorie Dennis and Bertha Hughes, a host of nieces and nephews and friends.

Preceding Ocie in death were her husband, Bob, in 1975; an infant daughter, Connie, in 1966; her parents; her brother; and four sisters-in-law and four brothers-in-law and son-in-law, G.R. (Bob) Hopkins.

Graveside Services and interment will be 11:00 A.M. Thursday, May 30, 2019 at the Grant City Cemetery in Grant City, Missouri. Arrangements are under direction of Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City.

Shamrocks Fall to LaPlata, End Best Season Ever

North Harrison ended its best season ever Thursday, when they made the long five hour bus ride to LaPlata, and then proceeded to give the powerhouse team everything they could handle before falling 4-2. LaPlata had come into the game with a 17-1 record, their only loss being to Class 2 powerhouse Northeast (Cairo). They had swept everyone out of their path. Two years ago, Northeast Nodaway’s Cinderella run ended there as well. North Harrison held LaPlata to their lowest run total since April 23rd, when they lost 12-3 to Northeast (Cairo).

The Shamrocks ended the regular season with a record of 13-4. They had lived a charmed life after finally getting past NEN in sectionals 3-1 in a game that was suspended Monday and had to be finished Wednesday. Pitted against heavily favored Pattonsburg in districts, they went up against a team that had their number the last two years, but they built up a 10-3 lead before weathering a frantic rally in the seventh.

North Harrison will still be a favorite next year, along with NEN and Pattonsburg. The Shamrocks lose Logan Craig, Lane Huitt, and Logan Huitt. But they return their battery, Grant Claycomb and Brett Emig along with three promising freshman infielders in Brandon Hamilton, Matthew Heintz, and Wade Briggs. They will have to find a way to replace their outfield and find another arm. They will also need to find a first baseman as Logan Craig was an anchor for them at that position, saving the Shamrocks a ton of errors by scooping throws out of the first and coming up with anything thrown in his general direction. Steven Willhite and Cruz Ury both showed promise with their bats.

North Harrison set a school record with the most wins, at 13. After only having been outdoors once, their season got off to an inauspicious start as Pattonsburg successfully invaded and won 8-4. They were faced with Cameron next; the Class 3 Dragons had North Harrison’s number in the past, but the Shamrocks won a 15-11 track meet. They went on a roll as they beat Mercer/Princeton 9-1 and shut out East Harrison despite being shorthanded 13-0. They took down another Class 3 power in Trenton, winning 18-1. They trailed early against Southwest Livingston, but Brett Emig’s home run sparked them and they won 12-2.

That led up to the North Harrison Tournament, which pitted them against Green City. It looked like another easy win at first, as North Harrison jumped out to a 5-0 lead. But then the Gophers started pounding the ball and coming back, even getting the lead at one point. But the Shamrocks regained the lead and Lane Huitt robbed one of the Gophers of a home run to preserve the 9-8 win.
Locked against South Harrison, their third Class 3 opponent of the year, the Shamrocks looked to be locked in another dogfight. The Bulldogs had gotten a walkoff win the year before, the kids all knew each other, and it looked to be a battle. But North Harrison broke the game wide open and won 17-2 for their first tournament win ever.

They beat Mercer/Princeton again 16-5 and Grundy County 14-4, but could not bring down their fourth Class 3 opponent, as Savannah, with a 25-1 record, destroyed the Shamrocks in a game scheduled at the last moment 16-1. That seemed to shake their confidence as they fell to a red hot Platte Valley team 5-4. But they got back on track with a 10-3 win over an improving Tri-County team, claimed a forfeit over East Harrison, and then beat Braymer in districts to get to the finals.

Obituary -- Helen Rogers 1929-2019

Celebration of Life Funeral Services for Helen Louise Rogers, age 90, of Bedford, will be held Saturday, May 25, 2019 at the Cummings Family Funeral Home, at 10:30 AM. Visitation will be Friday, May 24, 2019 at the funeral home from 3-7 PM with the family greeting friends from 5-7 PM. Interment will be held at Fairview Cemetery in Bedford. Memorials may be directed to the Bedford United Christian Presbyterian Church or Tinker Tots. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.cummingsfamilyfuneralhome.com under Obituaries.

Helen Louise (Buzzard) Rogers, was born June 23, 1928, and entered into rest May 21, 2019. Helen was born in Hopkins, Missouri to Loren Johnson Buzzard and Garland (Bird) Buzzard. She grew up attending various country schools as a child, and graduated Bedford High School in 1946. After graduation she completed her Normal Training and then taught country school in Taylor County for the next four years. On May 8, 1949 Helen married Delbert Richard (Dick) Rogers. To this blessed union two daughters, Mary Lou and Jeanne, were born.

As Helen and Dick raised their family on the farm Helen wore many hats. She was an excellent quilter, seamstress, cook, and gardener but was equally adept at driving a tractor and chasing unruly livestock. Together they enjoyed the farm life and all that it had to offer. Helen was very involved with her children's activities through the years including teaching Sunday School and being a 4-H leader. In her later years Helen enjoyed working at various businesses in town including The Style Shop, Shehan's Shoe Store, The Flower Shop and Lucas Dad and Lad.

Helen enjoyed quilting in several different local clubs, tending to her flower gardens, making thousands of pieces of Christmas candy through the years and discussing "politics." However, her greatest love was her family.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, Dick; parents, Loren and Garland; father and mother in-laws, Reid and Garland Rogers; son-in law, Jack Bowman; son-in law Gary Klassen and great-grandson, TJ Castillo. Helen is survived by her children, Mary Lou Klassen, Jeanne (Dennis) Crawford; two grandchildren, Nathan (Alicia) Crawford, Keri (Josh) Castillo; five great-grandchildren, Tyson Crawford, Betsy Crawford, Crosby Crawford, Hallie Castillo, Brynn Castillo; sister, Lois (Glenn) Clark; nephew Marty (Stephanie) Ohm; great-niece, Allie Ohm; great nephew, Max Ohm along with many other family and friends.

Tevin Cameron Named Fall Sport Athlete of the Year

On Wednesday, Tevin Cameron was named Graceland University’s Fall Male Sport Athlete of the Year. Student athletes are nominated by their coaches and voted on by all coaches in Graceland’s athletic’s department. Tevin started as a freshman last year and was the leading tackler on the team. In 2017, Tevin led Worth County to a state title and led Missouri Eight Man football in rushing that year.

In 1981, Hopkins Had 29 Volunteers for Rescue Unit

Today, most rescue units have trouble recruiting five people to volunteer for squads. But in 1981, places like Hopkins had little trouble coming up with 29 volunteers for its rescue squad. More subsequently signed up for the unit. Today, people are working longer, harder hours and the population has declined.

The December 23rd, 1981 Hopkins Journal listed the 29 volunteers for the squad – Marcia John, Lyle Fries, Larry Saxton, Hazel Hansen, Kathy Cross, Linda Cross, Larisa Lowrance, Don Crane, Charlotte Knorr, Melodee Lawrence, Carole Oberhauser, Joyce James, Donna Spalding, Joel Rybolt, Sherry Rybolt, Richard Brand, Lois Brand, Eldon Young, Margaret Young, Dan King, Donis Davis, Benetta Davis, Dick Wallace, Denise Wallace, Maurice Riley, Jim Thompson, Marcia Thompson, Garland O’Riley, and Pat O’Riley.

The Doctors and Pharmacists of Pickering

The pages of the Hopkins Journal in 1981 talked about the doctors and pharmacists of Pickering who practiced there at one point. One person, Dr. Josiah Coleman, didn’t even have a medical degree, but was reputed to be a good physician there.

One of the first was Dr. Amos Sargent, who moved west of Pickering from Xenia and practiced west of town starting in 1867. The next was Dr. William Wallis, who came to Pickering from Xenia in 1872 and practiced until 1890. Dr. Wallis was then joined by Dr. J.R. Heryford, who practiced with him until 1892, when he moved to Wilcox. Dr. Heryford returned in 1912 and purchased the practice of Dr. Wallis and continued until 1915, when he moved to Sabetha (KS).

Dr. W.H. Wiley practiced from 1917 to 1919; there was also Dr. E.L. Crowson, who practiced medicine and ran the pharmacy on the northwest corner of the main block of Pickering. Other proprietors of the pharmacy in Pickering were Henry Lincoln, Elmer McMichael, Joe Shuff, Alva Lett, Lloyd Hanna, Roy Highfield, Jay Berkshire, Ross Lincoln, Emery Airy, and William Parker. The pharmacy stayed in business until 1956, when the building was destroyed by fire. Later, Mr. & Mrs. Walter Runnels rebuilt it and turned it into a second hand store.

North Harrison Advances in Sectionals, Drops NEN

North Harrison’s baseball team, riding its best season ever, stayed alive in a game stretched out over three days, beating NEN 3-1 in a game that started last Monday and that was not finished until Wednesday thanks to torrential rains. Previously, the Shamrocks had led NEN 10-6 in Ravenwood during the regular season in a game that was suspended during the fourth inning and didn’t get played. In sectionals, they showed that it was no accident as they held off the Bluejays despite being in hot water the whole game.

Matthew Heintz started off for North Harrison and missed just outside to Ben Boswell to start the game. He came back to get Levi Boulting on two big breaking balls, but then Boswell stole second and Chet Spires’ line drive to right dropped in just before Tyler Lundy could get to it for a double and Boswell scored. But then Heintz came back to get Ethan Adwell called out on strikes and Reed McIntyre swinging to get out of the inning with his team down 1-0.

Ethan Adwell started for the Bluejays and Brett Emig, after fouling off a couple of pitches 2-2, hit a pop fly behind Ben Boswell at short for a base hit. But Logan Craig flied out to Chace Atkins in left and Maverick Price ran down Brandon Hamilton’s pop fly to short right to quash the threat.

The Bluejays had a golden opportunity to break open the game in the third. With one out, Levi Boulting beat out a scratch hit down the third base line and took second on a balk and third on a wild pitch. Chet Spire popped out to Logan Craig, but Heintz began fighting the strike zone, missing two close pitches to Ethan Adwell and walking him, and walking Reed McIntyre to load the bases. But then Tyler Lundy came in to pitch and struck out Spencer Gray to end the inning.

Adwell got to two outs easily in the third inning, but Grant Claycomb kept the inning alive with a double to right center. Brett Emig was hit by a pitch, and Logan Craig doubled to left center to put North Harrison on top 2-1.

Lundy got in hot water during each of the next three innings, only to get out of them. With one out in the fourth, Auston Pride gave one a long ride to dead center. Centerfielder Logan Huitt knocked it down to keep it in the yard, but couldn’t secure it as Pride reached first safely. Chace Atkins struck out on a pitch in the third, but Ben Boswell reached when Logan Craig dropped a throw in the dirt at first. Levi Boulting shot one into the hole at short that Grant Claycomb at short knocked down, but had no play on to load the bases. But Chet Spire grounded into a force at third to end the inning.

In the fifth, Lundy plunked Ethan Adwell. Reed McIntyre grounded out to first, but then he plunked Spencer Gray. Maverick Price popped out, but a balk moved Adwell and Gray to second and third. But he reach back and brought the heat to Auston Pride and struck him out.

Logan Huitt reached on an error when third baseman Levi Boulting bobbled a grounder as the rain was turning into a steady downpour. Grant Claycomb was hit by a pitch, and with Northeast’s back to the wall, Chet Spire came on to pitch. He got Brett Emig out on strikes, but moved the runners to second and third during the at bat on a wild pitch. Logan Craig beat out a scratch hit as Ben Boswell knocked down a hard-hit ball as Huitt crossed the plate to make it 3-1 and Claycomb took third. The Bluejays looked like they were in real danger at that point after Logan Craig stole second, but then Spire clipped the inside corner on a 3-2 pitch to Brandon Hamilton and got him out on strikes. Wade Briggs walked, but Cruz Ury was called out on strikes as well to end the threat.

Once again, NEN mounted a threat against Lundy, and one again, they could not cross the plate against him in the sixth. With one out, Ben Boswell beat out a slow roller down the third base line. Levi Boulting reached on an error when his grounder caromed in the air when third baseman Brandon Hamilton tried to field it in the slick conditions. Chet Spire popped into an infield fly for the second out, but Ethan Adwell reached on a fielder’s choice when he was jammed but hit a grounder to Brandon Hamilton, but Boswell beat out the force play at third to load the bases. But Reed McIntyre hit it hard, but right at Logan Craig at first to end the threat and leave the bases loaded.

At that point, it started raining harder, and Chet Spire was slipping and sliding over the mound and the game was suspended at the start of the North Harrison sixth. The torrential rains continued throughout Tuesday, but it cleared up Wednesday, allowing the game to be finished.

Chet Spire held the fort against North Harrison as he walked Lane Huitt, but struck out Matthew Heintz and Logan Huitt and got Grant Claycomb to ground out.

Tyler Lundy had thrown 47 pitches Monday, which meant he was out of pitches, forcing North Harrison to bring in Grant Claycomb to finish out the game. Spencer Gray shot one just past Wade Briggs at short, and Colton Swalley ran for him. But then Maverick Price hit a slow roller back to the mound that North Harrison turned into a 1-6-3 double play.

But just like the Platte Valley and Pattonsburg games, the final out proved elusive for North Harrison as Matthew Heintz couldn’t handle Auston Pride’s high chopper at second. Chace Atkins hit a cue shot off the end of his bat that dropped just before Wade Briggs could get to it. Atkins showed some newfound wheels and beat it out, bringing the lead run to the plate. Ben Boswell and the heart of the order was up, and anything could happen, but Boswell went after the first pitch and hit a pop fly right at Wade Briggs at short for the final out.

Rev. Paul Barton, The Porch Preacher for Hopkins

At the Hopkins Historical Society, there is a display featuring Rev. Paul Barton, who was a preacher for the United Methodist Church in Hopkins. His father and both his grandfathers were Methodist preachers, and he was 25 years into preaching when he accepted the calling to preach at the church in 1938. Figuring out that church attendance needed to rise, he decided to try preaching his sermons from the front of his porch for a change. His first such sermon was delivered on July 3rd, 1938.

At the time, church competed against amusements such as horseshoe pitching and croquet in Hopkins. But word got out pretty quickly, and Rev. Barton was featured in the Omaha World-Herald on July 24th, 1938. Water and iced tea were served. “I’ll talk until the iced tea gets cold,” he told parishioners.

The World-Herald featured a lot of the congregants in the article. Among those pictured were Mrs. Eunice Otis, whose son, Merrill Otis, was a Federal Judge down in Kansas City. Everett Ulmer, a neighbor to Barton, listened to the sermon lying down on his couch. Eldon Bridgewater, a neighborhood boy, was pictured, along with Mrs. Ida New, Cina Johnston, Leola Williams, Mayor R.W. Sirles, Mrs. William Jeffers, and W.S. Nicholson.

Back in 1981, Route 71 North of Maryville was Dangerous to Travel

This week (Page 10), columnist Marc Trump discusses road and bridge safety. Back in 1981, it was a major issue as well. On Route 71, there was a bridge on a curve north of Clearmont just south of the Iowa Border. The December 9th Hopkins Journal reported that there were five accidents, nine injuries, and three deaths in the previous 2½ years on the bridge. All of the dead and injured were under 25 years old.

The final straw happened on October 14th, 1981 when two Northwest students were killed when they struck the side of the bridge. Clarinda had a disco that was popular with Northwest students, and there was a lot of car traffic between Maryville and Clarinda. All of the accidents happened at night, and all of them involved vehicles driving south from Clarinda. Back in those days, the legal drinking age was 21 in Missouri, but was only 18 in Iowa.

The accidents were occurring despite the DOT putting curve signs, white paint, and white strips to warn drivers to slow down, along with the Student Senate doing an education campaign to warn drivers about the dangerous road in question.

The Northwest Student Senate at the time organized a massive letter writing campaign to then-Senator Tom Eagleton and then-State Representative Everett Brown. The cost to fix the bridge was an estimated $72,000 at the time to widen it out.

The bridge in question was not the only dangerous spot on Route 71. South of Burlington Junction, there was a dangerous curve, nicknamed “Dead Man’s Curve,” that also claimed a lot of lives over the years.

Since then, the road is straight from Clearmont to the Iowa border, and the bridge is now much wider. The original bridge had been built in 1929. But sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you can’t please anybody. In 1984, the DOT proposed replacing the Middlefork and the East Fork Bridge on Route 46 between Grant City and Allendale. Led in part by then-Presiding Commissioner George Young and then-Superintendent Robert Bruner, there was another massive outcry against the proposal, citing the difficulty of getting from Allendale to Grant City and the difficulty of busing kids. The DOT then built low-water crossings that could be used when the water was not too high.

50 Years Ago, Max Calhoon was Awarded Bronze Star

50 years ago last week, Max Calhoon received a Bronze Star. The Bronze Star is a decoration given to members of the US Armed Forces for either heroic achievement, heroic service, or meritorious service, including service in a combat zone. He is from Albany, but is active in the Allendale community.

The Calhoons are a military family with many other members who are either serving or have served. Max’s brother, Wendell, was an Air Force Captain. Max’s son, Ben, joined the Air Force after the 9/11 attacks and is currently serving. Bill Calhoon, Max’s brother, also served in the military; he currently lives in Allendale and is active in the community as well as Grant City and Missouri Lions.

The Sheridan Express invites recognition of all Veterans and current service members, including anniversaries of service medals. Send stories and pictures to PO Box 136, Sheridan, MO 64486 or email express@grm.net.

Courthouse News for May 22nd, 2019

On May 14th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Jesse Reed (37) of Maryville alleging Driving While Revoked.

On May 14th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Donte Glover (22) of Maryville alleging Driving While Revoked.

On May 14th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against David Owens (36) of St. Joseph alleging No Valid License and No License Lamps.

On May 14th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Nick Schuetz (34) of Skidmore alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On May 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Chris Ferrare (42) of Maryville alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony).

On May 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Sudeana Reno (29) of Maryville alleging Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On May 15th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Chris Shiflett (30) of Worth in Worth County on charges of DWI, Careless & Imprudent Driving, No Insurance, and No Seat Belt.

On May 15th, the Maryville Department of Public Safety reported that an individual impersonating Father Albert of St. Gregory’s Catholic Church in Maryville was asking parishioners for Google Play Gift Cards.

On May 15th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Michael Reneau (46) of Plainfield (WI) alleging No Valid Interstate Fuel License.

On May 15th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Sharmarke Muhumed Shakul (35) of Minneapolis (MN) alleging No Valid Interstate Fuel License. He pleaded guilty and was fined $57.50 plus court costs by Judge Jay Hemenway.

On May 15th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Robert Staton (47) of Grant City alleging Forgery (Felony) and Stealing (Felony).

On May 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Dakota Bomar (30) of Grant City alleging Possession of Marijuana (Prior), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Prior), and No Insurance.

On May 15th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Becky Fine (61) of Albany alleging Speeding (20-25 mph over).

Steven Marsh, 25, of Bedford, Iowa, was arrested on May 16th, 2019, in the 600 block of Madison Street in Bedford on a active warrant that was placed by Appanoose County. He is currently being held at the Taylor County Sheriff's Office until he is transferred to Appanoose County.

On May 16th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Andrii Matirko (26) of Madison (WI) alleging No Valid Commercial Driver’s License in Possession.

On May 16th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Tyler Johnson (25) of Princeton alleging DWI and No Motorcycle Helmet.

On May 16th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Timothy Stultz (57) of Clifton Heights (PA) alleging Receiving Stolen Property (Felony). Bond was set at $4,950.

On May 16th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Sarah Myers (36) of Swan (IA) alleging No Seat Belt.

On May 17th, Special Prosecutor Barbara Klima filed charges against Matthew Lebow (34) of Guilford in Nodaway County alleging Non-Support (Felony).

On May 17th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Ryan Wiley (37) of Ridgeway alleging two counts Passing a Bad Check.

On May 20th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Blaine Peery (36) of Ridgeway in Harrison County on charges of Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer (Felony), Resisting Arrest (Felony), Property Damage (Felony), Making a False Report, Speeding, Failure to Drive on Right Half, and Failure to Signal. On May 21st, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges.

On May 20th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Brandon Welton (36) of Eagleville alleging Failure to Register as a Sex Offender (Felony).

On May 20th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Justin Beier (40) of Swan (IA) alleging No Valid License, Failure to Signal, and No Seat Belt.

On May 20th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Courtney Kemel (29) of Maryville alleging No Seat Belt.

On May 20th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Randi Rogers (28) of Maryville alleging Speeding and No Seat Belt.

On May 20th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Logan Evans (28) of Guilford alleging Speeding (26+ mph over) and DWI.

On May 20th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Jeffrey Cole (53) of McFall alleging Fishing Without a Permit.

On May 20th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Jeffrey Farrell (30) of Sheridan alleging Driving While Revoked and No Plates.

On May 21st, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Jaimee Arnold (38) of Bethany alleging Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On May 21st, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against August Pittsenbarger (24) of Bethany alleging Possession  of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Charges listed are mere allegations. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty it is to determine guilt or innocence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Mardee Sadowsky Valedictorian, Olivia Babinski Salutatorian at North Harrison

17 seniors graduated from North Harrison High School Sunday as Mardee Sadowsky was named Valedictorian and Olivia Babinski Salutatorian. Graduating were Addie Slaughter, Cheyenne Peterson, Liz Parkhurst, Ethan Valenti, Sally Briggs, Morgan Wallace, Gavin Garrett, Isabelle Rucker, Mason Cracraft, Sioux Flowers, Mardee Sadowsky, Lane Huitt, Olivia Babinski, Logan Craig, Logan Huitt, Joey Welling, and Tyler Lundy.

The Class Motto was, “We may not have it all together, but together, we have it all.” The Class Flower was the Sunflower. Class Officers were Mardee Sadowsky (President), Gavin Garrett (Vice-President), Olivia Babinski (Secretary), and Cheyenne Peterson. Class Sponsors were Julie Rivera and Dan DeClue.

Student Council Representatives were Logan Craig (Council President), Addie Slaughter, and Ethan Valenti. National Honor Society Members were Mardee Sadowsky (President), Olivia Babinski (Vice-President), Cheyenne Peterson (Secretary), Gavin Garrett (Treasurer), and Logan Craig.
North Harrison students who successfully completed the A+ Program were Addie Slaughter, Cheyenne Peterson, Liz Parkhurst, Sally Briggs, Gavin Garrett, Mardee Sadowsky, Olivia Babinski, Logan Craig, and Tyler Lundy.

Chase Roberts, Pastor of Pattonsburg Baptist Church and the Pattonsburg (with North Harrison & Gilman City) Football Coach opened and closed with prayers. Salutatorian Olivia Babinski encouraged her classmates to not take anything for granted. “It’s been an amazing 14 years,” she said. “I love you guys with my whole heart.” Mardee Sadowsky told stories about each of her classmates. “Each of us have our own unique talents,” she said. “You are all equipped to succeed in life, and you’ll always find your way.”

Rick Johnson, who served as a superintendent at North Harrison, spoke and asked them, “Are you ready for what comes next?” He told them that their best years were still ahead of them. “Previously, you had someone to take care of you, but now, your life is what you make of it,” he said. “The only ones who fail don’t try anything.” He said that the worst people were the ones who blamed failure on someone else. “Decide what is important to you,” he said. “Find something that makes you happy. Have something you do outside of your career.” Johnson told them to always remember where they came from. “Listen to your grandparents, because you’ll never regret any time you spend with them,” he said.

Tiger Girls Runner-Up at State; Anna Gladstone, Merrideth Spiers Set School Records; Boys 12th

Worth County’s girls were state runner-up at the State Track Meet Friday and Saturday. They actually improved on the previous year’s performance and even beat out this year’s nemesis, St. Joseph Christian. But they ran into Blue Eye, a school south of Branson on the border with Arkansas and were edged out by one point for the state title. The boys were 12th with 19 points.

For the girls, Blue Eye had 68 points and Worth County 67. Christian, which had frequently beaten Worth County this year, was far back in third at 45. Marion County had 38, Greenwood 31, Salisbury 28, Glasgow 28, Russellville 22, Appleton City 19, and Platte Valley 19. Last year, Worth County had scored 50 points, which was enough to tie for first with West Platte.

Anna Gladstone set a school record in the Long Jump with a jump of 17’10¼, which broke her own school record and came close to the 18 foot barrier. She improved on last year’s mark at the same facility by a foot, and was four inches short of the Class 1 record set by Ashlee Miller (Osborn) set in 2006; Miller holds the class mark at 18’2¼”.

In the Shot Put, Merrideth Spiers did everything she was asked and more, getting a school record with a throw of 40’1” and breaking the 40 foot barrier as she broke the 40 foot barrier. She was second behind Hannah Whitlock (Schuyler County), who had 40’4”.

In the High Jump, Anna Gladstone matched a personal best and got third in the even with a jump of 5’2”. Liz Lyle got a season best of 4’11” with her final jump to get seventh.

The girls were 1-2 in the Pole Vault. Regan Allee won with a vault of 9’9”, while Keelin Engel was second with a vault of 9 feet, getting there on her final vault and getting past Maycie Mayfield (Drexel) and Jade Morris (Hermitage), who both had 8’9”.

Merrideth Spiers successfully defended her title in the Discus, getting a throw of 132’5”, beating out Camie Vaughn (East Harrison), who had 121’10”. Spiers holds the Class Record with a throw of 135’9” set in 2018.

Anna Gladstone was fourth in the 100 Hurdles, getting a time of 16.23. In the 300 Hurdles, Anna Gladstone knocked over a second off her time and finished second with a time of 46.89, a personal best.

For the boys, Bryant McCord was fourth in the 110 Hurdles with a time of 15.75. Andrew Alarcon was fifth in the 100, with a time of 11.55. The 4x200 Relay Team of Bryant McCord, Caleb Parman, Jaxon Anderson, and Andrew Alarcon was fourth with a time of 1:34.91. The 4x100 team of Jaxon Anderson, Caleb Parman, Andrew Alarcon, and Bryant McCord was fourth with a time of 45.23.

Two New Board Members Named to WCCC Board

Two new board members were sworn into the Worth County Care & Rehab Board at their regular meeting last Wednesday. They are Dylan Miller and Mark Cadle. Miller will serve the Smith and North Allen townships, while Mark Cadle will serve the East Fletchall township. The positions became vacant when nobody filed for them for the previous municipal election, held in April. With the appointments, the board is back up to its full compliment of six members. Other board members are Susan Tucker, Scott Houk, Kim Sanders, and Jim Larson.

Worth County School Board Hires New Junior High Cheer Coach

The Worth County School Board hired Tera Coleman as the Junior High Cheer Coach for the 2019-2020 school year following their regular board meeting Thursday. The vote was unanimous.

Elementary Principal Chuck Borey reported that the elementary celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week last week and that they did special activities honoring the teachers, including bringing them treats and covering their lunch duty. Grandparents Day and Elementary Track Day were held, and both events went well. The Spring Music Concert was held Monday, May 13th. The school expects there to be 18 Kindergarteners next fall.

The fourth through sixth grades went on a field trip to Maryville, where they watched a movie, had lunch in a park, and went bowling. The Kindergarten through third grade went to Arrowhead Stadium May 21st. Students were rewarded for effort during MAP testing this year with movies and snacks. Students with less than two days missed were given another field trip to Maryville, where they watched a movie and were rewarded with snacks. Seven students have signed up for summer school at Albany this year.

Character Superstars for April were named. For Kindergarten, Jace Mullock and Mason Gray were named for always being willing to help in the classroom. For first grade, Lane Pickering was named for being kind and considerate. Nathan Fitzgerald was named for being one of the most improved students this year. For second grade, Gracie Thurman was named for always being respectful, while Owyn Wuillay was named for being compassionate to his classmates.

For third grade, Audrey Runde was named for being respectful, while Brynn Chapman was named for being respectful and doing the right thing even when nobody was watching. Both were chosen by their peers. For fourth grade, Caleb New was named for his positive attitude, while Keira Hardy was named for being compassionate and nice to everyone. They were chosen by their peers.
For fifth grade. Bailey Steele and Jace Cameron were named for turning in all assignments and for being kind. They were chosen by their peers. For sixth grade, Emma Spencer was named for being quiet, respectful, and working hard. MacKenzie Walter was named for showing extra effort. They were chosen by their peers.

Borey said that next year, there would be no more individual character superstars and that classes would be named instead. He said that it would encourage the kids to work as a group; he said there would be a traveling trophy for the grades to compete for.

High School Principal Jon Adwell was not present, because he was at the State Track Meet; however, he turned in a report. Junior High testing was completed, and students who put forth effort will be rewarded with a trip to the movies on May 22nd. The Greenhouse class finished landscaping and planting flowers for graduation.

Student Council Representatives were named for the 2019-2020 school year. They were Kristin New & Regan Allee (Seniors), Anna Spainhower &  Danyelle Jackson (Juniors), Josh Freed & Jace Cousatte (Sophomores), Tanner Ridge and Alison Anderson (Freshmen), Autumn Cousatte & Kara Staton (8th Grade), and Camden Frisch and Abbi Brown (7th Grade).

Athletic Director Chris Healy was not present due to the State Track Meet, but turned in a report. He reported that the music program had done well at state. Keelin Engel received a Gold rating at state and was chosen to participate in the FFA Choir for this year’s state FFA convention. Merrideth Spiers received a Silver for a horn solo and Bronze for a vocal solo. The vocal quartet of Keelin Engel, Lauren Moore, Merrideth Spiers, and Jeremy Wimer got a Silver rating. The band received all Gold ratings at the State Large Ensemble Contest.

Healy also reported that the Athletic Development Program would start at 6:30 am on June 3rd and would be held every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday during summer. Camps will be held for all high school sports this year.

The board voted to waive the tuition fee for Cody and Tonya Mullock for the 2019-2020 school year.

The revised budget was approved. Higher than expected state revenues will help the current year’s budget. The Operating Fund is forecast to show a $50,000 surplus. However, the other three funds – the Teacher Fund, the Debt Service Fund, and the Capital Improvements Fund – will all show a deficit for this year. The deficit for the Teacher Fund is forecast to be $11,042. The deficit for the Debt Service Fund is forecast to be $2,638. The deficit for the Capital Improvements Fund is forecast to be $220,007.

The board voted to hire Roth Environmental Consultants to perform an asbestos inspection for the school. This is an inspection that is required every three years. The total cost will be $1,850. Previously, custodian Joe Burbach had done it for the school, but he has retired.

The board voted to accept a proposal from Midwest Mobile Services to replace 11 bus radios, 2 desk sets, and one for the bus barn. The total cost will be $11,324.97. Half will be paid out of the current budget and half will be paid out of next year’s budget. The current system is aging, and the school is having trouble communicating with buses in the distant corners of the school district.

The board awarded the fuel contract to MFA Oil at a cost of $2.52 per gallon at an estimated cost of $18,396.00 from the 2019 budget and $12,220.00 from the 2020 budget.

The board rejected a proposal from Apptegy to revamp the school website and allow staff to post items to multiple social media outlets, subject to administrative approval. The current website is not mobile-friendly and it is time-intensive to post updates. The cost would have been $6,000 up-front and $5,400 a year to maintain the site. Board members cited the high cost, the lack of an exit plan, and the possibility of cheaper alternatives that would accomplish the same objective.

The board voted to purchase an Internet content filter from MOREnet for a cost of $2,497.02 annually for three years. The school received another bid from Midwest Data Center for $5,400 annually for three years. The current filter is no longer available through MOREnet.

The board voted to hire A2Z Industries to do an insulation project throughout the school. The total cost would be $6,984.00; the money will be paid for in part from savings from the Facilities and Site Improvement Budget. The rest will come from the Capital Improvements Fund. Currently, there are gaps between the roof and building envelope; some are as wide as 2-4 inches. This means that during winter, cold air comes in, driving up heating costs. The project would also help seal the building from hot air and vermin. The cost does not include the labor for the preparation work or the cleanup work; it will be done by the summer work crew.

The board approved the shed design for the new softball shed. The board has already approved spending the money for the shed. It will be 20 feet by 20 feet and be located where the current shed is. There will be designated areas for the school and the ball board, as well as a commons area for equipment that either could use.

Bill to Overturn Worth County Health Ordinance Passes Missouri House

On Tuesday, May 14th, the Missouri House passed Senate Bill 391 by a 103-44 vote. This bill would overturn the health ordinances of Worth County and 19 other counties related to CAFO’s and other large agricultural operations. The bill goes to Governor Mike Parson for his signature. State Representatives Allen Andrews and J. Eggleston both voted for the measure. All 103 “Yes” votes were from Republicans. 39 Democrats and 5 Republicans voted against the measure. The following are opinion pieces for and against the measure.

PRO – By the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association
The Missouri House of Representatives passed Senate Bill 391 Tuesday, May 14, 2019, with a 103-44 vote. The vote was the final hurdle for the legislation in the 2019 legislative session, which concludes Friday, May 17. The legislation now moves to Governor Mike Parson for his signature. The Missouri Cattlemen's Association was a driving force in moving the legislation forward and its president, Bobby Simpson, wasted no time in calling the passage a "historic victory" for farm and ranch families. 

 "This victory was the product of leaders and staff of nearly 30 groups standing together, dedicated House and Senate leadership, unwavering bill sponsors, and elected leaders willing to sort fact from fiction," said Simpson. "Above all else, dedicated farmers and ranchers made this happen. This is their win." 

The legislation, sponsored by Sen. Mike Bernskoetter (R-6) and led in the House by Rep. Mike Haffner (R-55), prevents county governments from passing rules and regulations on farm and ranch families that are more stringent than scientifically founded rules and regulations promulgated by the Department of Natural Resources and other agencies. Proponents argue that a patchwork of county-by-county regulations creates regulatory uncertainty for farm and ranch families and prevents them from expanding and stops new operations from starting. The list of proponents include nearly 30 organizations. 

Opponents of the legislation include the Humane Society of the United States, Missouri Rural Crisis Center and Sierra Club. They argue that the legislation only benefits corporate farmers. Simpson said the wild accusations are false and a direct assault on farm and ranch families in the state. He said he is thankful legislators were willing to think independently and sort fact from fiction.
  
"One real story from the next generation wanting a future in Missouri agriculture is more powerful than 1,000 emails with activist talking points," said Simpson. "One real story from a farmer wanting to expand and create more economic activity does more than fear mongering. The opposition didn't have farmers and ranchers at the Capitol every single week of legislative session. Our association's Cowboys at the Capitol program worked. No bogus talking points, just real people with real stories."
Simpson is optimistic Governor Parson will sign the legislation. 

CON – By the Missouri Sierra Club
Senate Bill 391 would negate all agricultural related existing health ordinances in 20 rural counties (that have been passed by local, elected representatives) and would stop any county from passing a new ordinance in order to protect the health and welfare of their citizens from the negative effects of corporate- controlled Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOS). House Bill 951 would effectively block county commissions and health boards from enforcing these health ordinances.

Existing DNR Oversight Insufficient
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) does not have authority to provide oversight of the land application of the millions of gallons of waste that comes from "export only" CAFOs like Pipestone Systems, LLC. So without local ordinances they can spread waste right up to property lines, homes, and water sources.

CAFOs that aren't designated as "export only" can spread waste 50 feet from property lines and homes and 300 feet from water sources.

The DNR does not set any air quality standards for CAFOs with less than 17,500 hogs, 7,000 cattle, or 875,000 chickens.

There are no state setback requirements between CAFOs and populated areas.

CAFOs are not required to obtain construction permits from the State of Missouri.

Clearmont Couple Injured in Wreck Near Hamilton

A Clearmont couple was injured in a wreck near Hamilton Tuesday, May 14th at around 6:08 pm. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2014 Ford Escape driven by Keagan O’Riley (18) of Clearmont was westbound on Route 36 one half mile west of Hamilton and a 2010 Chevy Silverado driven by Robert Jewell (83) of Kidder (MO) was northbound on Route P. The Patrol says the Silverado failed to yield the right of way and traveled into the path of the Escape. The Escape struck the passenger side of the Silverado. A passenger in the Escape, Tony O’Riley (50) of Clearmont, received minor injuries. Another passenger, Dee O’Riley (46) of Clearmont, received moderate injuries. Keagan O’Riley was not injured. They were all wearing seat belts at the time of the accident. Jewell received minor injuries. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.

Teen Injured in Wreck North of Hopkins

A New Market teen was injured in a wreck north of Hopkins Tuesday, May 14th at around 4:21 pm. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2012 Ford Fusion driven by Allison DeVoe (19) of New Market was southbound on 149 one mile north of Hopkins and a 2009 Ford F-250 driven by Jacob Nastasio (27) of Maitland (MO) was westbound on 105th Street. The Patrol says the F-250 failed to stop at a stop sign and traveled into the path of the Fusion. The Fusion struck the F-250 in the passenger side. DeVoe received moderate injuries and was taken to Mosaic in Maryville. Nastasio was not injured in the wreck. Both were wearing seat belts at the time of the accident.

Pattonsburg Teen Seriously Injured in ATV Wreck

A Pattonsburg teen was seriously injured near McFall Tuesday afternoon May 14th after an ATV wreck at around 4 pm. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2019 Polaris Ranger driven by Ellie Sperry (15) of Pattonsburg traveled down a steep embankment on private property two miles northeast of McFall and overturned, ejecting Sperry. She was not wearing a safety device at the time of the accident. She was taken to Harrison County Hospital, and subsequently transported to Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City.

Shamrocks Win First Baseball District Title Ever

North Harrison built up a 10-3 lead over favored Pattonsburg, then had to weather a frantic rally in the last inning to hold on for their first ever district title, 10-7 Wednesday.

The Shamrocks had lost to Pattonsburg earlier in the year, and had lost a jamboree game and a regular season game to them the year before. The Panthers had their number over the last two years, but it was North Harrison who jumped out on top. Grant Claycomb hit a sinking line drive to right field that dropped in for a hit, then Brett Emig doubled into the left field corner to put runners at second and third. Logan Craig’s pop fly single to center brought in North Harrison’s first run and put runners on first and third, then he stole second. Brandon Hamilton’s pop fly to center dropped in and scored another as Logan Craig, who had to hold up to make sure the ball wasn’t caught, took third. Wade Briggs walked; Cruz Ury struck out, but Lane Huitt singled to right center to score two. He was out trying to stretch it into a double, but North Harrison was up 4-0.

North Harrison sent Grant Claycomb to the mound, and he got Dylan McCrary and Connor Ireland out, but Cameron Jones, Logan Pankau, and Cooper Teel hit back to back to back doubles to score two and cut North Harrison’s lead in half at 4-2.

It looked like a nailbiter would develop as both Grant Claycomb for the Shamrocks and Connor Ireland for the Panthers settled down and the game turned into a pitching duel. Pattonsburg got closer in the third as Cameron Jones hit a home run to left to make it 4-3. North Harrison loaded the bases in the top of the fourth with one out, but Cameron Jones came into pitch against Brett Emig. Emig missed a grand slam as the ball landed foul in left before chasing a pitch in the dirt and striking out; Logan Huitt swung under a pitch and struck out as well.

In the Pattonsburg fourth with one out, Zane Reed walked on a 3-2 pitch as Claycomb missed outside and Patrick Cowley chased a high pitch and singled to center to put runners on first and second. The top of the order came up, and Dylan McCrary was jammed, but crushed it to center, but Logan Huitt made a leaping catch. With the dangerous Cameron Jones on the on deck circle, Connor Ireland hit one that looked headed into the gap in right center, only for Logan Huitt to run it down again for the third out to preserve the lead.

Both teams went down quietly in the fifth, but then Lane Huitt’s home run to left center field opened the floodgates for North Harrison in the sixth as the Shamrocks finally started to catch up to Cameron Jones’ heater. That made it 5-3. Matthew Heintz took two called strikes, but then singled to right. Logan Huitt got to 3-2, fouled off two pitches, and then took a pitch on the inside corner. Grant Claycomb chased a pitch out of the strike zone and got to 0-2, only for Cameron Jones to plunk him to load the bases and bring up Brett Emig. Jones’ first pitch to Emig was a hung breaking ball, and Brett made the most of his second chance, hitting a grand slam over the left field fence to make it 9-3.

Pattonsburg could not score in their half of the sixth as Dillon Turner singled to start the inning. But then Kaden DeJong struck out looking on a big breaking ball, and he knew it as he started walking away even before the umpire rang him up. Turner tried to steal second, but was thrown out by Brett Emig and Zane Reed was called out on strikes on a perfect pitch on the outside corner.

Cameron Jones continued to fight the strike zone as North Harrison got an insurance run in the seventh inning. He walked the bases full with one out, and Connor Ireland came back to pitch. He got Grant Claycomb swinging on a breaking ball, but then didn’t give Brett Emig anything good to hit, walking him with the bases loaded to force in a run to make it 10-3.

But Grant Claycomb was out of pitches, and gave way to Logan Huitt in the seventh. Huitt plunked Patrick Cowley, but then got Dylan McCrary on a strikeout and Connor Ireland on a popup to Wade Briggs. But then Cameron Jones came up, and he narrowly missed a home run twice. His popup then squirted out of second baseman Wade Briggs’ glove to open the floodgates. Logan Pankau then caught a high pitch and shot it to left for a single to score one, and then Cooper Teel hit a screamer off Matthew Heintz’ glove in center for a double to score two more to make it 10-6. Dillon Turner doubled to right center to score Teel to make it 10-7, and it looked like a repeat of the Green City game, where North Harrison couldn’t buy an out. Caleb Sutton pinch hit and hit it hard, but right at shortstop Grant Claycomb, who knocked it down and threw to first to beat Sutton by half a step.

North Harrison beat Braymer 8-3 in the semifinal game after getting a bye in the first round. Grant Claycomb was 4 for 4 in the game, while Cruz Ury and Wade Briggs had key RBI’s in the game.

Courthouse News for May 15th, 2019

In February 2019, a multi-jurisdiction group of law enforcement agencies worked across the state lines of Missouri and Iowa to investigate an alleged significant dealer of methamphetamine. The accused was living in Maryville, Nodaway County, Missouri. On Saturday, February 2, 2019, at approximately 2333 hours, Deputy Mather with the Mills County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in Glenwood, Iowa for a traffic violation. During the traffic stop K9 Zehn was deployed and indicated at the odor of narcotics coming from the vehicle. Upon searching the vehicle, nearly 1 pound of methamphetamine and approximately $7,800 in US currency was located. The female driver, 34-year-old Chanel Traci Huff was arrested on numerous drug related charges and she was transported to the Mills County Jail.

After further investigation, the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Cochenour and Deputy Riley, along with the Maryville Police Department, conducted a narcotics search warrant at an apartment belonging to Huff, in Maryville, Missouri. During a search of the apartment approximately $15,000 in US Currency, methamphetamine, psilocybin mushrooms, LSD, drug paraphernalia and a loaded handgun was located. Huff is currently awaiting a federal court hearing.

The following agencies were involved in this investigation: The Mills County (Iowa) Sheriff’s Office, the Glenwood Police (Iowa), Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office, Maryville Police, Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement.

On Sunday, May 5th, KSHB TV of Kansas City reported that Steve and Lisa Tharp of Bethany found their 4 year old miniature horse, Quigley, shot and killed. He was shot through the neck and the bullet exited the horse’s nose. He was shot through the ear, and one of his eyes was taken out. His lower abdomen was skinned and his genitals were removed. The Bethany Police Department is investigating. If you have any tips, please contact them.

On May 7th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Mariah Smart (21) of Kansas City alleging Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On May 7th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Jordan Bennett (19) of Bethany alleging Littering.

On May 7th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Michael Guy (23) of Bethany alleging Littering.

On May 7th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Hailey Comer (32) of Bethany alleging Careless & Imprudent Driving (accident).

On May 7th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Dai’Shaun Perry (19) of Maryville alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony).

On May 7th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Heather Pearson (31) of Clearmont alleging Failure to Yield and Driving While Revoked.

On May 7th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Leann Walker (23) of Barnard alleging Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On May 7th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Jason Larabee (40) of New Market alleging Passing a Bad Check.

On May 7th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Alexis Johnson (21) of Kansas City alleging Possession of Marijuana.

On May 7th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Jhana Traylor (21) of Kansas City alleging Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On May 7th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Charles Turner (34) of Maryville alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony).

On May 8th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Craig Wood (34) of St. Joseph alleging Tampering with a Motor Vehicle (Felony) and No Valid License. Bond was set at $15,000, cash or surety.

On May 9th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Russell Troutwine (60) of Sheridan alleging Driving While Revoked and Failure to Register.

On  May 9th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Autumn Burleson (22) of Independence alleging Stealing.

On May 9th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Lexie Fitch (21) of Kansas City alleging Stealing.

On May 9th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Israel Benavidez (19) of Des Moines alleging No Valid License.

On May 9th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against John Worland (46) of Cameron alleging DWI.

On May 9th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Dakota Michalak (32) of Ridgeway alleging Careless & Imprudent Driving (accident).

On May 9th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Dayton Chaney (46) of Grant City alleging Violation of a Protection Order.

On May 9th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Dale Saville (30) of Grant City alleging No Muffler. That same day, he pleaded guilty and was assessed $189.50 in fines and court costs by Judge Joel Miller.

On April 24, 2019, and following a narcotic and firearm related investigation, a search warrant was served at the residence of Nathan J Blane, age 43, at 28349 State Highway B, Hopkins, MO by Investigator Cochenour and Deputy Riley. Based on items located inside the residence and firearm related complaints, the Nodaway County Prosecutor charged Blane with seven felony counts including Delivery of a controlled substance, Unlawful use of a weapon when possessing a controlled substance, Unlawful use of a weapon (exhibiting) and possession of drug paraphernalia. On May 9, 2019, an arrest warrant was served on Blane during a traffic stop by Sgt. Hann and K9 Bolt. Blane was in possession of a Glock 9 mm pistol and pills that will be sent to the lab. This information will be forwarded to the Prosecutor for consideration of additional charges. Blane is being held in the Nodaway County Jail. Bond is $30,000.00.

On May 10th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Timothy Gaigals (47) of Leawood (KS) alleging DWI and Speeding.

On May 10th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Erick Manning (28) of Bethany alleging Possession of Marijuana.

On May 10th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Bradley Sheeley (27) of Stanberry in Nodaway County on a charge of Driving While Suspended.

On May 10th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Cody Swinney (29) of Skidmore alleging DWI and Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway (Accident).

On May 10th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Michelle LaTour (29) of Conception Junction alleging Involuntary Manslaughter (Felony), Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Felony) and Possession of Marijuana.

On May 10th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Conrad McMahon (23) of Kansas City alleging Speeding.

On May 11th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Kaleb Clipson (17) of Maryville alleging Minor in Possession of Alcohol, Minor in Possession of Tobacco, Driving Without Headlights, and Violations of Intermediate Driver’s License.

On May 12th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Darrell Charles (52) of Skidmore in Nodaway County on charges of DWI and Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway.

On May 12th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Winter Clayton (38) of Bethany on charges of Distribution of Controlled Substance in Protected Location (Felony), Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (Felony), Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony), three counts Endangering the Welfare of a Child, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Charges were subsequently filed by Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer.

On May 12th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Justin Beier (39) of Swan (IA) in Worth County on charges of No Valid License, Failure to Signal, and No Seat Belt.

Brad Larson, 31, of Bedford, Iowa, was arrested on May 12th, 2019, in the 400 block of 4th Street in New Market for Public intoxication and Disorderly conduct. Larson is being held at the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office on $300 bond pending an appearance with the magistrate.

On May 13th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Brayden VanDivert (17) of Bethany alleging No Insurance.

On May 13th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Stephen Barber (59) of Des Moines alleging No Valid Interstate Fuel License.

On May 13th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Omarr Lindsey (41) of Salina (KS) alleging DWI, Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway, and No Valid License.

On May 13th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Dena Barber (63) of Grant City alleging No Insurance.

On May 13th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Kali Cameron (24) of Allendale alleging No Seat Belt and No Insurance.

On May 13th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Amber Anthony (32) of Albany alleging Speeding and No Seat Belt.

On May 14th, Harrison County Prosecutor Jonathan Meyer filed charges against Kenneth Manwarren (45) of Wallingford (IA) alleging No Valid Interstate Fuel License.

On May 14th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Zachary Brannen (33) of Albany alleging Failure to Register, Careless & Imprudent Driving (accident), No Seat Belt, and DWI.

Charges listed are mere allegations. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty it is to determine guilt or innocence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Bluejays Win For First Time in 25 Days; Down King City

Northeast Nodaway had not won a game in 25 days. Their only complete game was a 10-6 loss to East Atchison, and the only other time they took the field was an aborted game with North Harrison, in which they were trailing 10-6 in the fourth inning when rain struck. In the meantime, torrential rains washed everything else out. Northeast lost standout Spencer Weir to the flu against East Atchison and for good later on due to an arm injury, which meant they had to learn to play together all over again for Monday’s game.

King City came into Monday’s game with seven wins after having won seven the year before. They are in the second year in existence. They have shown the capability of scoring runs in bunches and of beating anyone on a given night; they beat Platte Valley 23-17 earlier in the year and lost a 13-10 track meet to North Andrew. At times, Monday’s game threatened to turn into another track meet. But the Bluejays suddenly scored three in the fourth and six in the fifth to put the game away by the ten run rule.

Trying to steal a game in districts, King City brought out Hunter Abney, one of the better pitchers NEN has faced this year. He shut down Ben Boswell and Levi Boulting to start the first, but then Chet Spire’s line drive sliced away from Brody Tunks in left and dropped in for a double. Ethan Adwell’s slow roller up the middle somehow got through for a base hit. Reed McIntyre reached on an error when the shortstop dropped an inning-ending force, and Spencer Gray’s pop fly dropped in for a base hit as McIntyre scored all the way from first on the play as he was off on the crack of the bat with two outs.

NEN pitcher Ethan Adwell shut down the Wildkats 1-2-3 in the first inning, but then started fighting the strike zone with one out in the second. He walked Zach Poling on four pitches, and then Hawkins Townsend reached on second baseman Colton Swalley’s bobble. Holden Farmer walked, as did Kystin Aborn to force in a run to make it 3-1.

Chet Spire’s sac fly in the second scored Ben Boswell to make it 4-1. King City answered in the third when Abney was hit by a pitch and stole second. Brody Tunks reached on Colton Swalley’s error at second when he bobbled a grounder to put runners on first and third with nobody out. It could have been a big inning for King City, but then Sawyer McCallon grounded into a 6-4-3 double play as Abney scored to make it 4-2.

Reed McIntyre singled to start the NEN third and stole second and took third on a wild pitch. Spencer Gray had an apparent strikeout when he swung at a pitch in the dirt, but the ball got away and he safely reached first as McIntyre scored. Maverick Price took a close 3-2 pitch to walk. Auston Pride struck out, but Chase Atkins and Ben Boswell were plunked to force in a run to make it 6-2.

But then the Bluejays nearly had a collapse similar to last year’s game with Green City, in which they had a 7-1 lead at one point, only to implode in the District Finals in Pattonsburg. With runners on second and third and two outs in the fourth, left fielder Chace Atkins lost Landon Wells’ fly ball in the sun as it dropped in for a double and two runs scored to make it 6-4. Hunter Abney singled in Wells to make it 6-5 and stole second and third and Brody Tunks walked. Sawyer McCallon hit an apparent game-tying single up the middle as the ball caromed off the mound high in the air. But shortstop Ben Boswell snagged it and stepped on second just in time to keep the Bluejays ahead 6-5 in the fourth.

Northeast’s bats went right back to work as Chet Spire singled to left center and Ethan Adwell also singled. For some reason, pitcher Hunter Abney went into the windup position instead of the stretch, and they both took second and third uncontested. Reed McIntyre struck out, but Spencer Gray worked the count to 3-2 and singled them both home. Maverick Price singled to advance him to second and Auston Pride kept the inning going by hitting a shot off the second baseman’s glove to put runners on first and third. Chace Atkins then singled past third to score Gray and put the Bluejays in front 9-5.

Levi Boulting came on in relief of Adwell in the fifth, but got into trouble at first, walking Zach Poling on four pitches. Poling then beat out a force play at second with nobody out as Hawkins Townsend got a scratch hit. But then Poling misjudged a pitch in the dirt and was an easy out at third. Holden Farmer was called out on strikes, but Kystin Aborn’s tricky grounder to Ben Boswell kept King City going as Boswell’s attempted force throw pulled Colton Swalley off the bag and Derrick Taylor walked to load the bases, putting the tying run on in Landon Wells. But Wells hit a high chopper to Colton Swalley that he fielded cleanly for the third out to keep King City off the board.

Abney ran out of pitches as he was up to 97, and Sawyer McCallon came on to relieve in the fifth. Levi Boulting walked and took second on a wild pitch and third on a balk. Chet Spire walked and stole second, and Ethan Adwell hit a slow roller up the middle which somehow got through to score both runs to make it 11-5. Adwell took second on a balk. Reed McIntyre popped out to first, but Adwell took third on a wild pitch and Spencer Gray’s pop fly down the third base line kept carrying, dropping out of everybody’s reach in fair territory as Adwell scored. Colton Swalley ran for Gray and Maverick Price was hit by a pitch for the second time and Rory Bredlow ran for him. Bredlow and Swalley took second and third on a wild pitch and McCallon was finished.

Kystin Aborn pitched, but he walked Auston Pride and Chace Atkins got his second hit, a base hit that scored two runs and put Pride on second. Ben Boswell’s drive to right center field dropped in for a base hit to end the game on the ten run rule.