Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Nodaway County Gets 23rd, 24th Positive Test

Nodaway County got its 23rd and 24th positive Coronavirus tests, the Maryville Forum and the Nodaway County Health Department report. The first case was a woman between the ages of 30 and 39 Monday. The second case was a woman between the ages of 20 and 29 Tuesday. Both are self-isolating in a private residence. If you do not get a phone call from a health official, you were not in close contact and are not at increased risk.

Princeton Man Killed in Blythedale Wreck

A Princeton man was killed in a wreck near Blythedale Monday at around 8:46 pm. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a Dodge Dynasty driven by Steven McReynolds (40) of Princeton was westbound on 162nd street in Harrison County one mile northeast of Blythedale when it traveled off the north side of the roadway and off a wooden bridge. It then overturned on its top, coming to rest in the creek bottom. 

Thursday, June 25, 2020

Governor, State Officials Alarmed at Rising Traffic Deaths

Despite traffic volumes dropping dramatically in 2020 because of the impacts of COVID-19, Missouri has actually experienced a 12 percent rise in roadway fatalities over last year.

 “We are alarmed by the increase in Missouri traffic fatalities, particularly since they occurred with reduced traffic due to the statewide stay at home order,” said Gov. Mike Parson. “Despite traffic volumes in the state dropping by nearly 50 percent for much of the year, traffic fatalities in Missouri are up 12 percent compared to 2019.”

Already, 2020 has seen 402 traffic fatalities, an increase of 43 more lives lost compared to the same time last year. And the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” are just beginning. This is the period covering the summer travel season between Memorial Day and Labor Day, one of the deadliest time periods on our nation’s roadways.

MoDOT Director Patrick McKenna said there are actions drivers and passengers should take to reverse this disturbing trend.

“We’re dealing with a different kind of public health crisis,” McKenna said. “During the pandemic, we see people wearing masks and social distancing, not only for their own protection, but for the health of others. We need a similar commitment from drivers to buckle their seatbelts, put their phones down and slow down.” 

Safety begins with you 
Of the vehicle occupants killed in Missouri traffic crashes in 2020, 70 percent were unbuckled. “Based on average survival rates, if everyone involved in these crashes had been buckled, more than 100 people who were killed would still be alive today,” McKenna said. “It’s the easiest, cheapest and quickest way to save lives on Missouri roadways.”

“One of the toughest jobs for a Highway Patrol trooper is contacting a victim’s next of kin to tell them their son, daughter or parent has been killed in a vehicle crash,” Missouri State Highway Patrol Colonel Eric Olson said. “For three straight years, troopers made fewer of those painful visits with loved ones. Drivers must observe the speed limit, move over when they see emergency responders or work crews on the shoulder and make safe decisions at all times.”

Every driver in the state can help by committing to four simple actions:
–Buckle up.
–Put the phone down.
–Slow down.
–Never drive while impaired.

Summer is also peak season for highway work zones. We are already seeing disturbing trends in our work zones this summer with rampant disregard for speed reductions and lane restrictions. It is imperative that motorists slow down and focus on the road while driving through work zones. It is for everyone’s safety.

Information on all MoDOT work zone activities is available on the department’s Traveler Information Map at www.modot.org. The map is available as a free app for iPhone and Android phones. Motorists can also call MoDOT’s 24/7 customer service toll free at 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636).

Missouri State Fair Set for August 13th to 23rd

The Missouri State Fair will not feature concerts at the grandstands this year, but the annual event will continue as it has since 1901. With many county fairs within the state and state fairs in surrounding states being canceled, many anticipated the same would occur in Missouri. The only time the state fair had ever been canceled was in 1943 and 1944 as a result of World War II. On Thursday, June 11, 2020, Governor Mike Parson surprised many when he publicly announced the Missouri State Fair will continue while acknowledging it will look different compared to previous years.

"The Missouri State Fair will not be canceled on my watch," said Governor Parson. "This will look different, but we will have a fair."

Shortly after the Governor's announcement, the Missouri State Fair issued a news release.

"Our hearts broke as we watched COVID-19 cancel fairs, festivals and expositions around the world. We know the countless hours our exhibitors and fair families have put into taking care of their livestock and 4-H and FFA projects. Our priority continues to be the promotion of excellence in Missouri agriculture and our future agriculture leaders," stated the release.

Missouri Cattlemen's Association Executive Vice President Mike Deering referred to the state fair as a youth leadership development event for young people in rural and urban areas alike.

"Many youth throughout the state exhibit livestock and other projects at the Missouri State Fair teaching them many valuable skills, including responsibility, work ethic and respect. We applaud the Governor, Missouri State Fair Commission, Missouri Department of Agriculture Director Chris Chinn and all involved for standing up for the youth and ensuring they have the opportunity to exhibit their projects," said Deering. "Beyond those who exhibit projects, many visitors to the state fair get a firsthand look at agriculture and learn a lot about how they are connected to agriculture even if they live in downtown St. Louis."

Bill Would Ensure Greater Accountability for Law Enforcement

 State Rep. Ron Hicks is proposing legislation that would give the state a better option to punish officers of the law who abuse their authority. Hicks’ legislation would create the offense of abuse of force if an officer uses grossly unreasonable force that causes physical injury to another person.

Hicks said it is important to support and respect the majority of law enforcement officers who serve honorably, but the state must also have an effective tool to discipline those who do not.

“In the wake of the George Floyd case and the protests that have rocked our nation, many Americans on both sides of the aisle have called for significant change to increase accountability for law enforcement. Our current criminal code isn't designed to charge police officers, which makes charging decisions complicated and time-consuming, even when there's a seemingly obvious crime that’s caught on video,” said Hicks, R-Defiance.

He added, “I am proposing a bill that creates a new charge to address the situation. By creating the crime of ‘abuse of force’ an officer would face the same penalties that a civilian would for the same conduct. With this we can protect officers who use force appropriately, and make it easier to punish those who abuse the authority entrusted to them.”

The abuse of force charge would carry penalties ranging from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class A felony, depending on the circumstances. Hicks noted that the new charge would not replace other charges. Instead it would create a new option. An officer could still be charged with murder, assault, or any other crime supported by the facts.

Hicks said his bill also would eliminate the defense of “just following orders.” Additionally it would require that any peace officer found guilty of the offense to have his or her commission automatically suspended or revoked. Hicks said the provision would ensure there is no “administrative loophole” that allows the officer to stay employed as a peace officer.

Hicks said he plans to file the legislation when bill pre-filing begins on December 1. 

2020 Worth County Junior High Softball

September 8th – at Stanberry, 5:30 pm.
September 10th – South Harrison, 4:00 pm.
September 12th – King City Tournament.
September 15th – Albany, 4:00 pm.
September 17th – Pattonsburg, 4:30 pm.
September 22nd – at King City, 5:30 pm.
September 24th – at North Harrison, 5:00 pm.
September 28th – at North Andrew, 5:00 pm.
October 1st – at Platte Valley (Jefferson), 5:00 pm.
October 5th – NEN, 4:00 pm.
October 8th – at Maysville, 5:30 pm.
October 12th – at Mid-Buchanan, 5:00 pm.

2020 Worth County Junior High & JV Football

Junior High games start at 5:00 pm, followed by JV games at 6:30 pm.
September 8th – at Pattonsburg.
September 14th – Bedford.
September 21st – at Albany.
September 28th – King City.
October 5th – North Andrew.
October 12th – at Stanberry.

2020 Worth County Softball Schedule

August 25th – Jamboree at South Harrison, 5:30 pm.
August 29th – Bill Hill Memorial Tourney, 9:00 am at Albany.
September 1st – North Andrew, 5:30 pm.
September 3rd – at Maryville, 5:00 pm.
September 8th – at Stanberry, 5:30 pm.
September 10th – South Harrison, 5:30 pm.
September 12th – King City Tournament.
September 15th – Albany, 5:30 pm.
September 17th – Pattonsburg, 6:00 pm.
September 22nd – at King City, 5:30 pm.
September 24th – at North Harrison, 5:00 pm.
September 26th – North Harrison Tournament.
September 29th – at Princeton, 5:30 pm.
October 1st – East/West Place Game at Worth County, 5:30 pm.
October 5th – NEN, 5:30 pm.
October 6th – Platte Valley, 5:00 pm.
October 8th – at Maysville, 5:30 pm.
October 12th – at Mid-Buchanan, 5:00 pm.
October 14th to 17th – Districts.
October 17th – District Championship.
October 21st – Sectionals.
October 24th – Quarterfinals.
October 30th to 31st – State Tournament.


2020 Worth County Football Schedule

All game times are at 7 pm.
August 21st – Worth County Jamboree.
August 28th – South/Nodaway-Holt.
September 4th – at Santa Fe.
September 11th – Schuyler County.
September 18th – at Albany.
September 25th – King City (Homecoming).
October 2nd – at Orrick.
October 9th – Pattonsburg.
October 16th – at North Andrew.
October 23rd – at Stanberry.
October 30th – First Round Districts.
November 6th – Second Round Districts.
November 13th – District Championships.
November 21st – Semifinals.
November 28th – State Championship.

Wednesday, June 24, 2020

Courthouse News for June 24th, 2020

On June 13th, 2020 at 3:57 am, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s office received a call reporting a suspicious blood stain and tracks leading off of the road on Co Hwy J20 just east of Tingley. Upon arriving on scene, a 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 was located belonging to a Clayton Johnson 22 of Grand River. Ringgold County Ambulance and Fire were dispatched to the scene along with Tingley First Responders. Johnson was traveling West on Co Hwy J20 striking a deer. The vehicle left the roadway entering the North ditch. The vehicle then went airborne and came to rest on its roof in a ten ft deep waterway approximately 560 feet from the initial contact with the deer. Johnson, who was wearing his seat belt, was trapped in his 05 Dodge Ram. After approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, Johnson was extracted by Ringgold County Fire with the use of the Jaws of Life. Johnson was air lifted from the scene to Des Moines with suspected serious injuries.

On June 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Johnathan Acevedo (34) of Maryville alleging DWI and Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway.

On June 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Abbie Morrow (17) of Burlington Junction alleging Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident).

On June 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Carly Rahn (20) of Clarinda alleging Failure to Drive on Right Half (Accident).

On June 16th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Jason Ridnour (35) of Clarinda alleging Possession of Marijuana (Prior), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Prior), No Valid License, Failure to Drive on Right Half, No Insurance, Failure to Register, Displaying Plates Belonging to Another, and No Seat Belt.

On June 16th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Zachary Nauverz (29) of Maryville alleging Assault.

On June 16th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Kenneth Weaver (44) of Maryville alleging No Valid License and Speeding.

On June 16th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Josie Fredricks alleging Resisting Arrest.

On June 17th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Linda McIntosh (60) of St. Joseph alleging Property Damage.

On June 17th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Matthew Goodpasture (20) of Albany alleging Stalking and Harassment.

On June 18th, the IRS reported that scammers were pretending to be IRS agents seeking personal information so that recipients could receive their stimulus checks. The IRS will never call you to ask for payment details. If you have questions about a call, contact the IRS directly.

On June 18th, the Prinsco facility caught fire, Northwest Mo Info reports; it is located on 136 south of Bethany. The Bethany Fire Department was hampered because of limited water supply. Fire departments from North Harrison, Pattonsburg, Albany, New Hampton, and Cainsville responded. The fire was controlled after two hours. The power went out in New Hampton and Martinsville for Evergy customers from 10:30 am to 1 pm that day. Damages were estimated in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

On June 18th, a Maryville woman reported that a raccoon had killed her daughter’s pet bunny rabbit.

On June 19th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested William Powell on a charge of Violation of No Contact Order.

On June 19th, Harrison County Sheriff Trevor Place announced, and Northwest Mo Info reported, that Harrison County’s Sheriff’s Department is being investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control. This follows a federal inquiry into former members of the department. The investigation involves allegations of improprieties or misconduct. All individuals involved have been removed from the office. 

On June 19th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Scott Yount (47) of Osceola (MO) alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony).

On June 19th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Miranda Bartlett (25) of Geneva (FL) alleging DWI (Person Less than 17 in Vehicle) and two counts Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Bond was set at $500 cash.

On June 20th, the Iowa Department of Public Safety reports that Taylor County Deputies were called to a home in the 100 block of Pearl Street at around 10:55 pm that night following a 911 call. Penny Godfirnon (62) of Bedford was found suffering from stab wounds. She was pronounced dead a short time later. Later, the authorities arrested Christian May (32) of Bedford on charges of First Degree Murder and Willful Injury. Godfirnon had worked for many years at the Maryville Treatment Center. KCCI reports that May was her son. 

On the night of June 20th, an Ambulance and a cop car drove through Sheridan headed west at around 11 pm.

On June 20th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Robert Weigel on a charge of Domestic Abuse Assault and Child Endangerment.

On June 21st, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Cory Farrell (21) of Grant City on a charge of DWI (2nd Offense), No Valid License, No Seat Belt, and Failure to Drive on Right Half.

On June 22nd, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against Larry Moody (55) of Bethany alleging Assault (Felony). Northwest Mo Info reports that the allegations arose after he had allegedly entered into a female victim’s home, grabbed her, put his arm around her neck, took her to the ground, and continued to choke her until she almost lost consciousness.

On June 22nd, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Joshua Graham (20) of Albany alleging Unlawful Use of a Weapon (Felony) and Assault (Felony). Northwest Mo Info reports that the charges arose after officers were called to a residence due to a man welding a knife. When officers arrived to place him under arrest, he allegedly headbutted the officer and took several swings.

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.

Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge by Governor Mike Parson. He does not begin his duties until July 3rd. Until then, he still serves as Nodaway County Prosecutor.

Tuesday, June 23, 2020

Obituary -- Beverly Staton 1946-2020

Beverly Jean Staton was born April 11, 1946. She passed away on June 22, 2020 at the age of 74. Beverly was born to Carl and Alta Owens and was raised on the family farm south of Denver, Missouri. 

Bev married Dwayne Staton on April 6, 1968. To this union 3 children were born, Wilsie Jean, Carl Lee and Robert Dewayne. Most of their married life they lived in the Allendale area. In their later years they moved to Grant City.  They had celebrated 50 years together  before his passing in 2018. 

Beverly worked for more than 30 years for Gentry County Memorial Hospital. During her years there she worked on the ambulance crew and later as the housekeeping  supervisor. Throughout the years she formed several long lasting friendships that she valued. During her evenings you would find her working at the Oldtowne Café or at the Pool Hall in Allendale. 

Bev had a love for sports. In her younger years she loved to bowl and even had a few trophies to show for it. She coached girl’s summer softball for a few summers. It was always the highlight of her summer. She liked to go fishing when she had a chance. In recent years you could always find her watching Men’s College Basketball. She was highly upset when March Madness was cancelled this year due to the Corona Virus. She also liked to watch Sunday football and cheer on the Chiefs. 

Bev’s health had been declining for several years, but she never wanted to talk about herself. She was more concerned with everyone else in the family and their well being. If you ever needed anything she would do her best to make sure it would happen… even if she had to go without. She was a selfless hard working wife, mother and grandmother. 

Beverly was preceded in death by her husband Dwayne, parents, Carl and Alta Owens, brother Morris Owens, sister Kay Smith and nephew Reaford Owens. 

Beverly is survived by her children: Wilsie Jean and Kevin  Fletchall, Carl and Jennifer Staton and Robert and Treasa Staton, all of Grant City, Grandchildren: Codie Knight, Andrew Pickering, Cory Pickering, Cameron & Aubrey Staton, Kara, Macie and Robbie Staton; great-grandchildren: Riglie and Harper Staton; Chloe, Ina and Avah Knight, Emery and Lane Pickering and Patrick Pickering,  Step-children: Teresa and Dale Winemiller and children; Sandy Meredith and children; and Bill and Frankie Staton and children and nieces: Kathy Cavanaugh and Karla Hughes. 

Funeral Services will be 11:00 A.M. Friday, June 26, 2020 at Crossroads Church in Grant City, Missouri with visitation from 10:00 A.M. to service time. Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 

Friday, June 19, 2020

Fundraiser for Brad Pickering

On June 8th, Brad Pickering of Sheridan was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. He has a wife and two boys, ages 8 and 6, at home. He will start Chemo and have surgery to remove the tumor. Donations are sought to provide meals for the family. To donate, go to the website Give In Kind and search for Meals for the Pickering’s. Tuck Point Bar & Grill and B&B BBQ have already donated meals.

9th Coronavirus Death in Gentry County

A ninth Coronavirus death in Gentry County was reported Friday by the Tri-County Health Department and Northwest Mo Info. The person was a man in his 90’s. There have been 54 positive cases in the county, and 40 of them have been at Pine View Manor.

Wednesday, June 17, 2020

Obituary -- Jeremy Culbertson 1971-2020

Jeremy Alan Culbertson, known as JC to his friends and family, passed away unexpectedly on June 9, 2020 at his farm in Redding, Iowa.  His passing followed a sharp decline in his health after an accident on a four-wheeler two years ago.  He appreciated the love, concern, and care given to him by his family and friends during this difficult time.

He was born on April 10, 1971, the son of Alan Culbertson of Redding, Iowa and Rita Twogood Akers of Perry, Iowa and grew up on a farm in Redding, Iowa. A straight A student, he received his Associates Degree from SW Community College in Iowa.  He then went on to study Information Technology, specializing in exchange servers, at Vatterott/Hamilton's in Des Moines where he met Rick Yaw, his long-time teacher, friend, and mentor.  He continued his education with numerous other certifications in his field.  Jeremy worked as an Information Technology professional at several companies over the years, including American Packaging in Story City and Bauer Built in Paton.  

His three children, Keary Rae Proctor Meth, Trenity Aaron Culbertson and Patton Chandler Culbertson, were the lights of his life and he was so proud of them. They would say that he was the most silly, kind-hearted, outgoing Dad a child could have. As well as being a computer whiz, Jeremy was musically gifted like his Grandmother Culbertson.  He could play any instrument and enjoyed the saxophone and guitar.  He passed on his musical aptitude to his sons and Patton follows in his footsteps with his technical skills, having built his first computer at age 14. He was also an excellent cook and gardener; a talented woodworker; and loved the outdoors.  He was very spontaneous and playful, loved to travel and was always anxious to try new things. During his marriage to Heather Proctor Hoffman, he and the family loved their camping and boating outings along with their RV road trips to rodeos and concerts.  He loved family reunions, the 4th of July and was a big fireworks fan.

Jeremy was an ordained minister and liked to joke that he married two of his sisters.  His sense of humor was legendary.  He also volunteered time at his sons’ school, St Patrick’s School in Perry, helping with their technology needs.  He was a generous friend and would do anything to help.  He had a special relationship with his Aunt Lyla and Uncle Max Dawson, who helped care for him.  He named Patton after Max’s favorite general and gave Patton Max’s middle name, Chandler.

Jeremy is preceded in death by his Grandparents, Edrie and Frank Culbertson and Edith and Robert Twogood; his Uncle, Max Dawson; and his Aunts, Iris Osborn and Doris McClintock along with his two good friends, Rick Yaw and Dave May.

He is survived by his children, Trenity Aaron Culbertson, Patton Chandler Culbertson and Keary Proctor Meth; his father, Alan L Culbertson and mother, Rita Twogood (Dennis) Akers; his granddaughter, Aspen Meth; his three sisters, Synona Culbertson, Desiree Culbertson and Taishna (Jason) Novak, his aunt Lyla Dawson and uncles Dennis Twogood, Wesley (Diana) Twogood and Roger (Becky) Twogood and many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Final arrangements are private and made through Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home, 200 S. Front Street, Grant City, Missouri, 64456.  The family asks that instead of flowers, contributions may be made to help with the expense of final arrangements, mailed to Prugh-Dunfee. 

Three More Coronavirus Cases in Nodaway County

On Wednesday, the Maryville Forum and the Nodaway County Health Department reported that there were three more positive Coronavirus tests in the county. That brings Nodaway County’s total to 19. The first is a male between the ages of 30-39; the other two are children between the ages of 1-10. The Nodaway County Health Department is working to contact trace people who may have been in close contact. If you do not get a call from a contact tracer, you are not at increased risk.

There are now 19 positive tests in Nodaway County. Out of those, 14 are no longer in isolation.

Courthouse News for June 17th, 2020

On June 9th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Teion Houge (23) of Garden Grove (IA) alleging Driving While Revoked and No Insurance.

On June 9th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Dustin Stone (22) of Grant City on charges of Interference with Official Acts and Reckless Driving. This is in addition to charges he is facing in Worth County.

On June 10th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Adam Riel (38) of Fort Worth (TX) alleging Unlawful Use of a Weapon (Felony). Bond was set at $500 cash. On June 10th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against William Teator (42) of Stanberry alleging Domestic Assault. Bond was set at $250 cash. Northwest Mo Info reports that the charges arose from a shots fired call on June 9th. An altercation had allegedly occurred in which Teator allegedly pushed a female who was present and Riel had allegedly fired a warning shot.

On June 10th, a Grant City resident reported that someone had failed to pull over for an ambulance.
On June 11th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Michael Manion (53) of Gentry in Gentry County on charges of DWI (Felony) and Careless & Imprudent Driving.

On June 11th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Steven Lundvall (48) of College Springs (IA) alleging DWI (Felony) and Resisting Arrest (Felony). Bond was set at $10,000 surety.

On June 12th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Joshua Strange (34) alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony). Bond was set at $5,000 surety.

On June 12th, the New Nodaway Humane Society had their email hacked. If you are getting text messages from a 757 area code asking for money, it is not them; delete it and block them. To reach them, please call (660) 562-3333, or contact them on their Facebook page.

On June 13th, a Grant City resident reported that someone had hit her van with a golf ball.

On June 14th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Brevyn Ross (22) of Grant City in Nodaway County on a charge of DWI and Failure to Drive on Right Half.

On June 14th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Austin Hiddleston (24) of Johnston (IA) in Nodaway County on a charge of DWI, Failure to drive on Right Half, and No Tail Lights.

On June 15th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Amber Wood (47) of Burlington Junction in Nodaway County on charges of DWI (Prior) and Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway.

On June 16th, a Maryville resident got their email hacked. Other people got emails purportedly stating that it was their niece’s birthday, they were out of town, and requested a PlayStation gift card for them.
 
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.

Tuesday, June 16, 2020

Nodaway County Gets New Coronavirus Case

On Monday, a 16th person tested positive for the Coronavirus. The person is a woman between the ages of 50 and 59. She is isolated in a private residence. The Nodaway County Health Department is working to notify those who have been in close contact. If you do not get a call,  you are not considered a close contact and are not at increased risk.

Bethany Teen Injured in Wreck

A Bethany teen was injured in a wreck six miles south of Bethany Tuesday morning at around 8:50 am. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 1999 Buick driven by Hannah Stewart (17) of Bethany was southbound on Route 69 south of Bethany when she ran off the west side, struck an embankment, went airborne, and overturned. Stewart received moderate injuries and was taken to Harrison County Community Hospital.

Monday, June 15, 2020

Obituary -- Dale Ray 1955-2020

Dale D. Ray, 65, of Maryville, Missouri passed away on Saturday, June 13, 2020 at Mosaic Medical Center in Maryville.

Dale was born on January 7, 1955 in Maryville, Missouri to George and Edna (Farquhar) Ray. He was a mechanic and musician.

He married Barbara Nelson on July 20, 1980 in Maryville, Missouri. She survives of the home. Additional survivors include, two sons, Cary (Angela) Ray, Perryville, Missouri, Christopher Ray, Sheridan, Missouri; daughter, Sarabeth (Joe) Makings, Maryville, Missouri; six grandchildren and two sisters, Dixie Ray and Marie Palmer both of Maryville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Daisy Mayes and brother, James Ray.

Mr. Ray has been cremated under the care of Price Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 18th at 2 pm at Price Funeral Home. There will be no visitation held.

Saturday, June 13, 2020

In 1876, Grant City Star Declared Wrong Winner of Presidential Race

On November 9th, 1876, it was the end of the world as we knew it and the people who plotted this country’s destruction were elected to power. That, at least, was according to the Grant City Star, a staunch Republican paper. 

Just like today, there were certain partisans on both sides who cheered on their politicians like it were a sporting match. For instance, if you’re a Democrat today, the world is likely coming to an end as Donald Trump is the President. Of course, before November 2016, the Republicans thought Barack Obama was our worst President ever and thought the world was coming to an end until Donald Trump won.

After the November 1876 election, the Grant City Star believed that Democratic challenger Samuel Tilden had won over GOP hopeful Rutherford Hayes, on America’s centennial year, no less. They composed the following lament in their November 9th, 1876 election:

A change has, in our opinion, been accomplished, and the hard times and Tilden’s “bar’lo’money” has inaugurated it. Taking a candid view of the election news that has been received, we are compelled to admit that they are all against us, and that Tilden is most likely the President-elect. Although we have made large gains in Congress, it is proper to believe that the next House will be Democratic, at least, and likely Rebel. For the first time in the history of the world, a government has been taken from the hands of those who saved it, and given over to those who sought its destruction.

Speaking of the defeat of the Republican Party in this election, the Chicago Inter-Ocean says, “We do not attempt to disguise our supreme regret at the result. We believe it to be a terrible misfortune, and as such we herald it. It comes with disheartening force to Republicans of the North, but it will fall with far more crushing effect on the loyal men of the South. Today, the humble and lowly of that section, lifted into the sunlight of manhood by Abraham Lincoln and the justice of a great people, will shrink back into the shadow of slavery and bow with trembling fear before a cruel and unrelenting oligarchy. Are the American people satisfied with their work? Is this to be the end and aim of that equality before the law which Lincoln proclaimed, and which the country pledged its honor to preserve? We shall see. But if the battle between freedom and slavery is to be fought again upon this continent, it will be with a mightier power and with a desperation beside which former contests will sink into insignificance.”

In the Ninth District, a perfect ignoramus has been elected over a man of learning and intelligence to represent us in Congress. Not withstanding the fact that his ignorance and duplicity was apparent to all (Democrats as well as Republicans), they elected him by a majority of 1,500.

In our own county, we have done better. The two most important officers in the county – Representative and Treasurer – have been elected by the Republicans, which constitutes a Republican victory, inasmuch as the Democrats claimed Indiana in October.

However, things were not as simple or as hopeless as the editor of the Grant City Star believed. The election results were disputed, and there was an acrimonious fight over them which dwarfed the Gore vs. Bush fracas of 2000. Finally, in the Great American Spirit of Compromise, a deal was struck – Rutherford Hayes would be seated as President, but Reconstruction would end. The Republicans had won after all. The unwritten fear was that if a deal were not struck, the Civil War would reignite, which nobody wanted. 

Subsequently, in 1878, Congress passed the Posse Comitatus Act, which codified the Compromise of 1877 which allowed Hayes to be seated as President. It limits the use of the Federal Military to enforce domestic policies within the US. The only exceptions are as provided for under the US Constitution or by act of Congress. In 1956, Congress added the US Air Force to the act, and regulations written by the Navy and the Marines prohibit those branches from being used as well. The act does not apply to the US Coast Guard or the US Space Force.

In 2006, President George Bush II sought to weaken the act and Congress passed the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act. It allowed the President to employ the Armed Forces to restore order in the event of a major disaster, epidemic, terrorist attack, or other serious public health emergency, when the President deems that violence has occurred to such an extent that the states are incapable of maintaining public order. That law was repealed in 2008.

The Posse Comitatus Act does not apply when troops are used to quell civil disorder, insurrection, and rebellion. For instance, President George Bush I used federal troops to quell the 1992 Los Angeles Riots that followed the acquittal of the police officers who beat Rodney King.

Friday, June 12, 2020

Clive Rickabaugh’s Work Still Standing at Sheridan Christian Church

Clive Rickabaugh’s artwork is still standing at the Sheridan Christian Church today. In the first grade, in 1912, he handed a drawing to his first grade teacher at Sheridan school; she saw his potential and encouraged him. He attended Sunday School at Sheridan Christian Church as a child and wanted to give back to the church that had molded him into what he was. All of his artwork was given to the church at no cost.

Rickabaugh did paintings of the Last Supper, Moses and the 10 Commandments, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, among other things.

His best work was the Nativity Scene that is still on display during every Christmas at the church. Anetha Girling, one of the congregants, suggested the idea to Rickabaugh. He asked Dale Hennegin to build a cabinet for the sculpture, and Hennegin turned out to have talent himself as an artist. He did more than what was asked, building a cabinet and a table that turned out to match the sculpture perfectly. Marion Rickabaugh, Clive’s wife, who was the Art Director at a Chicago advertising firm, did the lettering, and it took her a month to design the lettering. 

Clive went to Drake University. He originally intended to become a minister; Sheridan Christian Church has produced several ministers over the years. However, as he progressed in his studies, he was drawn more and more to art, and one of his professors encouraged him to pursue it. He went on to the University of Chicago to study art, and became a professional artist.

Rickabaugh went on to do paintings, wood, stone carvings, clay, bronze, and design. At one point, he was the designer for ABC’s “Super Circus.” He also designed scenes for the Grand Opera in Chicago, wrote a children’s play that ran for 33 nights in Chicago, and wrote a puppet play that he sold to a trope in Denver (CO). 

But Clive frequently came back to Sheridan to give back. In 1930, on his father’s farm, he saw a fence post that he liked and carved it into a bison. During World War II, he came back home and built a stone cottage south of the Sheridan Cemetery. He began to do artwork for the church after it began remodeling, starting with the Last Supper.

The first grade teacher at Sheridan who had believed in Clive saved all of his artwork that he had handed in during his first grade year in 1912. She lived to be over 90, and when she passed away, her niece found the artwork and gave it to Clive.

The story was told by Bill Findley, who wrote a lot of stories about the land and history of Worth County during the late 1960’s for Joe Stocks.

Raging Bull Goes Bezerk in Tiger Locker Room

The 1966 Tigers had an up and down season in the season that preceded their 1967 title run. Bob Prather showed flashes of potential and got some playing time that year, but every game was a grind. 

The season started off with a 12-0 loss in Albany, in which they moved the ball up and down the field, but couldn’t score. They frequently finished games strongly; they fought Gallatin to a scoreless tie through three quarters before finally breaking through for two scores in the fourth to win 13-0. They were demolished 41-0 by Cameron, trailed 20-13 late against Hamilton, but scored in the closing minutes and converted the extra point to get the 20-20 tie.

The Homecoming game with King City was one of their best games they had played in several years, as they scored early against the Wildkats, and a stingy defense held them off the rest of the game as they got the 6-0 win.

A long road trip to winless Princeton was next, but the conditions were anything but ideal. The game was played in the rain and the mud, and Princeton looked anything but a winless team; they controlled the ball for the whole first half; try as they might, Worth County could not get off the field on defense and only ran nine offensive plays during the first half. Somehow, the game was still tied 0-0 at the half.

Bull Reece was beside himself and went totally bezerk, throwing the medicine kit and anything else he could lay hold of. For him, this was a letdown game after the Tigers had played so well the week before. Finally, he turned to his players and said, “Boys, if you’re going to play like this, I’m just going to go up and watch it in the stands.”

Sure enough, the Bull followed through on his threat and went into the stands and sat with his wife. The players had to warm up on their own before the second half. But a totally different half unfolded for the Tigers; Princeton got the ball and picked up two first downs, but finally, Worth County started stopping them on defense, and Bull came back down and started coaching again. In the fourth quarter, Frank Matteson aired one out to Ron Richards for 83 years and a score, Worth County converted the extra point, and then stopped a late drive to get the 7-0 win.

The rest of the season didn’t go the way the Tigers wanted to, as they still had to play Stanberry and Maysville, two title contenders, along with Bethany, who was an up and coming team. They were only down 12-6 against Maysville in the third quarter, but the Wolverines scored twice more to get the 24-6 win. Then, they fell behind 34-0 early in the third against Stanberry. But all of a sudden, Worth County started showing the form that would propel them to a 23-3-1 run the next three years, as they completely outplayed Stanberry, got to within 34-21, and were threatening again as time expired. 

Worth County came heartbreakingly close to beating Bethany in their final game. It was one of the hardest hitting games the Tigers had been part of recently, and it looked like a pair of heavyweights playing for the GRC title. Bethany took advantage of an early turnover to go up 6-0, and then the Tigers would come close all night. They would get to the 10, 17, 12, 3, 29, 15, the 5, and the 3 again. Finally, on the latter series, Bethany fumbled the ball back to the Tigers on the 1, and they got a late score to tie it at 6-6. They finished up 3-4-2, with two of their wins and both their ties coming on scores in the final quarter.

Airplane on Grant City Square Caused Sensation

During the week of November 19th, 1969, an airplane owned by Wayne Kephart on display on the Grant City Square caused a sensation. Kephart, who was in charge of the construction crew that was building the World County Convalescent Center (now the Worth County Care & Rehab Center), bought the plane from a local person after it had been in storage. The plane had been damaged after high winds had damaged it. Kephart was repairing it in the old Coop service station on the southwest corner of the Square, across the street from where the Bear’s Lodge is currently located. 

Several people in the county owned airplanes in the 1950’s, believing that planes would replace cars like cars had previously replaced the horse and buggy.

Robert Rice Appointed as Nodaway County Associate Circuit Judge

On Friday, Governor Mike Parson appointed Robert (Bob) L. Rice as Associate Circuit Judge for the 4th Judicial Circuit. He will fill the Associate Circuit Judge vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable Doug Thomson to Appellate Judge of the Western District Court of Appeals.

Mr. Rice, of Maryville, currently serves as the Nodaway County Prosecuting Attorney. He holds a Bachelor of Science in government from Northwest Missouri State University and a Juris Doctor from Creighton University School of Law in Omaha, Nebraska.   

The move will create a vacancy for the Nodaway County Prosecutor.

Missouri Chamber Endorses Amendment 2

The state’s leading business voice on Friday announced its endorsement of Amendment 2, joining the growing coalition rallying behind the August 4 vote on Missouri Medicaid expansion in the statewide primary election.

The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry hailed the ballot initiative as a “pro-jobs measure that will help fuel economic growth throughout our state.”

The Chamber highlighted a new report by the Missouri Foundation for Health on the positive economic impact of Medicaid expansion.

The independent study concludes that Medicaid expansion will create more than 16,000 new jobs annually over its first five years while expanding the state’s economic output by $2.5 billion a year and increasing personal income by $1.1 billion annually.

Nearly 80 percent of those jobs would be from outside of the healthcare industry, with most of the new positions located outside of St. Louis and Kansas City, and 90 percent paying more than $15 an hour.

“While this data makes a clear case for passing Amendment 2, the benefits of Medicaid expansion are even more significant during this time of economic hardship,” said Daniel P. Mehan, the organization’s president and CEO. “Let’s not miss this chance to bolster our economy during this recovery while expanding access to healthcare for our fellow Missourians.”

The Regional Economic Models Inc. (REMI) study adds to an extensive body of research showing that Missouri Medicaid expansion will improve not only the state’s health but its bottom line.

A 2019 study by the Center for Health Economics and Policy at Washington University in St. Louis shows that Medicaid expansion would save the state as much as $1.3 billion by 2026, with the additional federal dollars offsetting current state health spending.

As the REMI report notes, those cost savings would additionally spur job creation and free up Missouri’s general revenue to invest in areas such as public safety and education.

The Missouri state auditor has also issued a report acknowledging that Medicaid expansion could save the state up to $1 billion dollars a year, given the 900 percent return on investment that Medicaid expansion would deliver to the state.

Route C Now Open South of Allendale

A section of Route C in Worth and Gentry counties is now open after repairs were made to a culvert washout. Crews from the Missouri Department of Transportation closed Route C from Route M in Worth County to Route DD in Gentry County on May 15 after rainfall washed away soil and material around the culvert. Crews were able to complete the necessary repairs and reopen the roadway to traffic Friday morning.

Please remember that all roads are No Phone zones. Buckle up. Phone down. Arrive Alive. For more information about this and other MoDOT projects, visit modot.org and view the online Traveler Information Map. While at modot.org, sign up online for work zone updates. Information is also available 24/7 at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or via social media.

Two More Coronavirus Deaths in Gentry County

The Tri-County Health Department reports that there were two Coronavirus deaths in Gentry County Thursday. The residents were both men, with one in their 90’s. As of Thursday, there were 54 positive tests for the county. This includes people who have recovered. Worth County has had four positive tests total.

90th Birthday Party for Evelyn Groom August 22nd in Allendale

A 90th birthday party will be held for Evelyn Groom on August 22nd from 2 pm to 5 pm at the Allendale Community Center. She taught over 40 years at Worth County, including in one room schools. She was a teacher at the Denver Schoolhouse and later taught at Worth County.

Thursday, June 11, 2020

Obituary -- Catherine Weatherd 1925-2020

Catherine B. Weatherd, 94, of Darlington, Missouri, passed away June 10, 2020. She was born December 3, 1925 in Darlington to Clarence and Evetta (Felts) Redding.

She graduated from Darlington High School in 1943, as Salutatorian of her class.

Catherine married Eugene Weatherd June 2, 1943 in the home of Reverend M.B. Wayman.

They lived on their farm for fourteen years, moving to town in 1957. Catherine and Eugene ran a feed store, gas station and grocery store for several years. She taught school for two years, 1945 and 1946 at the Gartin District Country School. Catherine also owned Hoda Ceramic shop for several years.

She was a member of the Darlington Baptist Church, and a past member of the Order of the Eastern Star for 25 years in Darlington.

Catherine was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene April 6, 2002, son, Jerry, November 13, 2010, two brothers Lawrence and Clifford Redding, sister-in-law, Betty (Green) Redding, sister and brother-in-law, Natalie and Forrest Cooper.

Survivors: son, Norman and wife Linda (Cain) Weatherd; sister-in-law, Fern (Cole) Redding; grandchildren, Janet Hollan & Brian; Ronnie Weatherd Henderson and son Jax; Tracey Coburn (Doug); Martin Weatherd (Kelly); 7 great-grandchildren; 15 great-great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Graveside Service and Burial: 1:00 PM Saturday, June 13 at the Rouse Cemetery Darlington. There is no scheduled family visitation, however friends may call anytime from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM on Saturday at the Roberson-Polley Chapel, Albany. Memorial Contributions: Rouse Cemetery in care of the Roberson-Polley Chapel, 403 N. Hundley, Albany, MO 64402. 

www.robersonpolleychapel.com.

Obituary -- James Dougan 1924-2020

James A. Dougan, 96, of Ravenwood, Missouri, passed from this life on Thursday, June 11, 2020, at the Pineview Manor Nursing Home, Stanberry, Missouri.

James was born at home in Barnard, MO, on March 15, 1924; his parents were Frank and Minnie (Dunn) Dougan.  He was a lifelong resident of the area.

James married Bonnie J. Sherry on January 20, 1945, at the First Christian Church in Maryville.  She passed away in 2014.  He was also preceded in death by his parents, his son Kenny Dougan in 2019, his daughter in law, Linda Dougan in 2019; his half-brother, Ray Purviance, his half-sister, Mildred Weir, and siblings, Farrell Dougan, Harold Dougan, Herschel Dougan, and Byrl Dougan, and Garnet Leedy.

He retired from Northwest Missouri State University from the environmental services department, and then from McDonald’s in Maryville, as a handy man. 

James was a member of the Ravenwood Christian Church, the American Hereford Association, and the Carriage and Driving Society of Kansas City.

He restored horse drawn equipment; old buggies and carts.  He liked to collect Ball mason jars.  He hated weeds and was forever pulling them on his farm.  He enjoyed his tractor and being outside.

He is survived by his 2 sons: Keith Dougan, and Kirby and wife, Deb Dougan, and daughter in law, Verlene Dougan, all of Ravenwood, Missouri: 7 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and 5 great-great grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM, on Monday, June 15, 2020, at the Bram Funeral Home, Maryville, Missouri.  The burial will follow in the Nodaway Memorial Gardens, Maryville.

The family will receive friends for one hour prior to services on Monday, at the funeral home.

Memorials are suggested to the Pineview Manor Nursing Home, 307 Pineview Dr, Stanberry, MO 64489

50+ Years Later, Mac Coverdell Elementary Still Standing

In 1969, the St. Charles School District dedicated a new school building to Worth County grad Mac Coverdell, who had died on April 26th of that year. He had risen to become an Assistant Superintendent there, and he was recognized after his death for his devotion to the school for the last eight years.

50 years later, the school is still there. Great School.com, a website which allows patrons to rate school districts, has 23 reviews, all five star reviews. It has 312 elementary students enrolled. Test scores there are above average.

Coverdell was the son of William Coverdell and Ida McPheeters of Grant City. He was born in 1915 and became a lieutenant in the US Navy Reserve during World War II.

The Allendale Broom Factory

Allendale once had a broom factory which sold brooms all over Northwest Missouri and Southwest Iowa. It was run by John Barnes, who began making brooms at the family farm northwest of Allendale in 1904 and continued almost 50 years. He moved the operation into town in 1952 and continued it until his death in 1953. After his death, Bea Ross taught himself how to make brooms with the factory’s equipment and continued the business for at least 16 more years, although he was only making a few dozen a year in 1969, at the time it was featured in the Times-Tribune.

The brooms were made from corn plants, which were harvested, cut, left to dry for two weeks, and then cured.

At its peak, the Broom Factory made between 200 and 250 brooms a week. It twice sold 2,500 brooms to Henry Field of Shenandoah. Another good customers was Place’s in Bethany, which would then turn around and resell them to their own network of stores. 

Barnes was a fixture on the roads during those years, as he would regularly hitch a wagon and travel to Grant City, Allendale, Albany, and Mount Ayr to peddle his brooms.

But by the time Bea Ross took over, conditions were not ideal. At $1.50 an hour to hire a work crew, he figured that it was not profitable to make brooms at scale. When Barnes was at his peak, wages were $1 a day plus a meal, and youth were much easier to come by.

Obituary -- Lela Maxwell 1925-2020

Lela K (Phillips) Maxwell, the daughter of Bernice (Osborn) and Colman Phillips, was born on December 07, 1925 Gentry County.

Lela passed away at Shangri La Rehab & Living Center –Blue Springs MO, on May 05, 2020 at the age of 94.

Lela was united in marriage to, William L Maxwell in 1962, they lived in Grant City, MO. He preceded her in death on Sept 8,1990.

She was also preceded in death by her parents Bernice and Colman, her brothers; Hershel, Carl, Wesley, and Sisters; Bessie (Edward) Depriest, Wanda (Robert) Pierce.

Lela was a dedicated, hardworking mom who worked tirelessly to ensure her family was provided for. The one memory they all shared is learning to play poker, May I and many other games. She also made all kinds of crocheted items for her grandchildren. Each Grandchild and Great Grandchild were Blessed to each have special memories with her. She had the unique ability to know what each child needed from her. Lela will be missed by many. We all loved her to the moon and back.

Survivors include Sister, Twila (Clarence) Miller, Bethany, MO, Children Linda Gibbany, Independence, MO, Larry (Norma) Cousin, Colleyville, TX, Wanda Troutwine, Houston, TX; grandchildren, Darrin (Sue) Howell, Independence, MO, Debi Evans, Independence, MO, Darrel (Billie) Howell, Cameron, MO, Sheri (Chad) Christy, Cedar Rapids, IA, Robin (Charlie) Martin, Houston, TX & Ginni (Eric) Bjerkhoel, Antelope, CA. 12 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildern, several nieces and nephews, and her good friends.

Maitland Woman Injured in Nodaway County Wreck

A Maitland woman was injured in a wreck near Graham Thursday morning at around 9:02 am. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2019 Ford Pickup driven by Mauriee Blount (48) of Newton (IA) was northbound on Route A and a 2014 Ford driven by Lisa Everhart (52) of Maitland was eastbound. The Patrol says Blount attempted to turn left and failed to yield to Everhart. The Everhart vehicle struck the front of the Blount vehicle. The Patrol says neither driver was insured. Everhart received moderate injuries and was taken to Mosaic in St. Joseph.

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Hopkins Ball Association Selling Trash Bags

Baseball was canceled this year due to COVID-19 but the Hopkins Ball Association is still selling trash bags. Cost is $10 a roll.

You can now order online: https://buybags.trashbagfundraiser.com/hopball/

Proceeds will be going towards new equipment for next season. These are for local delivery only. We can deliver, St Joe - Creston, IA!

Government Seeking Jobs for 2020 Census

The US Government is taking job applications for the 2020 US Census. They have a wide variety of positions requiring various levels of experience and training. This includes temporary full-time to flexible part time positions. There are positions open statewide; pay is $17 an hour with mileage reimbursement. Income from working for the census does not count towards income for SNAP benefits. To apply, go to www.2020census.gov/jobs or www.usajobs.gov.

Obituary -- Rosemary Cox 1946-2020

Rosemary Geraldine Cox, 74, of Albany, Missouri, passed away on June 9, 2020 in Albany. She was born in Bethany, Missouri to Clifford and Bettie (Madison) Stevens on May 2, 1946. She attended elementary school in Denver, Missouri, and high school at Worth County RI. She married James Cox on June 26, 2010 in Albany, Missouri.

Rosemary was preceded in death by; her parents, maternal grandparents, Reno and Mabel (Bulthaupt) Madison and her paternal grandparents, Virden and Elizabeth (Findley) Stevens, brother, Terry Stevens
In addition to her husband whom resides at their home, Rosemary is survived by her daughter, Ginger Summa, son-in-law, Brian Summa, granddaughter, Madison Summa and grandson, Zac Summa, all of Darlington, MO; sister, Peggy (Gary) Fenner, Leawood, KS; brothers, Larry (Debbie) Stevens, Albany and William Stevens, Grandby, MO; 4 step-children, 5 step-grandchildren, 7 step-greatgrandchildren.

Graveside Service and Burial: 2:00 PM Friday, June 12 at the Miller Cemetery, Denver, MO. The family will receive friends from 1:30 – 2:00 PM Friday at the cemetery prior to the graveside service. Memorial Contributions: Albany First Baptist Church, Albany Mosaic Medical Center or Miller Cemetery in care of the Roberson-Polley Chapel, 403 N. Hundley, Albany, MO 64402. Online condolences: www.robersonpolleychapel.com

Obituary -- Dorothy Sturdevant 1928-2020

Dorothy LaVaughn Sturdevant, 91, Blythedale, MO passed away Tuesday, June 9, 2020.
She was born on August 11, 1928 in Blythedale, Missouri the daughter of John and Altha (Wisman) Wilson.

On July 24, 1960, she married Cecil Daryl Sturdevant in Kansas City, MO. He preceded her in death on November 19, 2008.

Dorothy was a homemaker and later in life worked for the Blythedale Post Office. She was a member of the Christian Church in Blythedale and enjoyed gardening and cooking.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Vaness Bury and a brother, Willis.

Dorothy is survived by her children, LaVaughn (Louie) Badeen, Leawood, KS, Van (Pam) Sturdevant, Barnard, MO; sister, Helen Gillespie, Nevada, MO; grandchildren, Amanda (Mike) Barnhardt, Karrie (Shane) Bury, Jonathan Badeen and great grandchildren, Riley, Bailee, and Axel.

Private Family Graveside Services and Burial will be held in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Blythedale, MO under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home, Eagleville, MO. There is no scheduled visitation. Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army and/or the Alzheimer’s Association in care of Roberson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 46, Eagleville, MO 64442. 

Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com

Taylor County Up to 69 Positive Tests

Taylor County is experiencing a coronavirus outbreak, with 69 positive tests being reported by the State of Iowa as of Wednesday evening. There are seven positive cases in Ringgold County. A free testing clinic is being held from 3 pm to 6 pm in the Lenox Community Center parking lot. Those who are being tested must bring a valid ID, and registration is encouraged by calling (712) 542-7887.

15th Coronavirus Case Found in Nodaway County

A 15th positive test has been reported in Nodaway County, the Nodaway County Health Department and Northwest Mo Info report. The individual is an inmate at the Maryville Treatment Center. The Health Department is working to contact people who they were in close contact with recently. If you are not contacted by the Health Department, you are not considered to be at increased risk.

Courthouse News for June 10th, 2020

On June 2nd, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Office received a call about a vehicle in the ditch at around 2:46 am. The Sheriff’s Department arrested Tami Bailey on charges of DWI (2nd Offense), Failure to Maintain Control, No Insurance, and Driving While Suspended.

On June 3rd, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against David Cole (56) of Stanberry alleging Harassment (Felony). 

On June 3rd, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Kevin Cruth (60) of Clearmont alleging DWI and Failure to Display Lighted Lamps.

On June 3rd, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Elizabeth Cernin (20) of Maryville alleging DWI and Driving While Revoked.

On June 3rd, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Michael Chamberlain (40) of Kellerton on a charge of Domestic Abuse (Assault, 2nd Offense).

On June 3rd, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Melissa Wilson (43) of Kellerton on a charge of Domestic Abuse (Assault; Impeding Flow of Air).

On June 4th, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against Christian Crossley (36) of Bethany alleging Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident).

On June 4th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Shelly Andersen (43) of Mount Ayr alleging Domestic Abuse (Assault).

On June 5th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Scott Langley (56) of College Springs (IA) alleging Assault.

On June 6th, Jon Eric Hightshoe (55) of Tingley was arrested in Polk County on a Ringgold County Warrant (Probation Violation). 

On June 7th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Office arrested Chance Newton on a charge of DWI.
On June 8th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Jesus Ramirez (35) of Ravenwood alleging Driving While Revoked and Speeding.

On June 9th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Dustin Stone (22) of Grant City alleging five counts Harassment (Felony).

On June 9th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Jamie Terry (43) of Independence in Harrison County on a Webster County Warrant for Failure to Appear (Non-Support).

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.

Sunday, June 7, 2020

Brad Peve Poker Run July 11th in Hopkins

The 7th annual Brad Peve Poker Run will be held Saturday, July 11th at 12 noon at the M&M Pub & Grub. It is located on 115 North 3rd in Hopkins. They are offering navy shirts this year; the cost will be $12.

Recommended Books on Race and Racism

The recent George Floyd protests have caused people in the community to read books and watch movies to educate themselves on race and racism. Here are some of their recommendations; this is by no means a complete list:

“American Son” (Netflix)
“13th” (Netflix)
“The Other Wes Moore” by Wes Moore
“Born a Crime” by Trevor Noah
“The Hate You Give” by Angie Thomas
“On the Come Up” by Angie Thomas
Anything by Maya Angelou
“How to be an Antiracist” by Ibram Kendi
“Stamped” by Jason Reynolds
“Just Mercy” (Movie)
“Poet X” by Elizabeth Acevedo
“An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones
“White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack” by Peggy McIntosh (Essay)
Anything by Jane Elliott
“White Fragility” by Robin Diangelo
“White Rage” by Carol Anderson

Grant City Tractor Pull Set for July 31st

The Grant City Tractor Pull is still on for July 31st at the Worth County Fairgrounds from 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm. The event is sponsored by the Northwest Missouri Tractor Puller’s Association.
The following classes are being offered; this is not necessarily the pulling order:

6,500 lb Non Turbo
6,000 lb Hot Rod
8,500 lb Pro Farm ( 12 mph )
8,500 lb Pro Field A Pump
9,000 lb Pro Field P Pump
8,500 lb Limited Pro Stock
2.6 Pro Street Diesel
6,200 lb Pro Street 4x4
10,500 lb Super Field
6,500 lb Open

300 Protest George Floyd Death in Maryville

Around 300 students, Northwest athletes, and community members came to the Maryville Square to protest the death of George Floyd at the hands of a police officer in Minneapolis Saturday. The event was first announced, then it was moved online. But then, it was moved back live and came off peacefully. Marchers circled the Nodaway County Courthouse for 8 minutes and 46 seconds, the amount of time that it took a police officer to use his knee to choke Floyd, who was Black, against the ground and kill him. Subsequently, they shared their own experiences with race and law enforcement.

There were many positive comments on Facebook from members of the community about the information they learned from the rally.

In the days leading up to the event, numerous Black students who attend Northwest took to Twitter to describe their experiences with racism. One reported asking a group of classmates a question and just getting stared at. Another reported that a professor had repeatedly ostracized a Black student in their class, seeking to repeatedly humiliate her after she had challenged some of his problematic statements. Many reported being called racial epithets by other students and that the university had done nothing about it. In one instance, a student subsequently had their car keyed; in another instance, the university had retaliated against the student making the racism allegation by switching their class.

Before the main protest, a group of several dozen Northwest athletes, organized by football coach Rich Wright, marched from the football field to the square to show their support for the protests. Women’s basketball assistant Addae Houston, who is Black, has spoken out about the killing of George Floyd and has been backed by his boss, Austin Meyer.

The protest found agreement from a surprising source in Nodaway County Sheriff Randy Strong. On May 29th, on the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Department’s Facebook page, he wrote, “I proudly add my name to the list with my brothers and sisters in blue. I do not support the actions of this officer or the other officers standing by not protecting the rights of this citizen.” He said that actions like this give police departments a bad name and that they should not define the actions of most.

He wrote, “Please do not judge all of us, for the actions of this police officer. Most law enforcement officers truly care for people and take pride in serving others. I am so proud to have some of the finest men and women in law enforcement working for me. Please join me in praying for the family of Mr. Floyd. He did not deserve to die in such a way, especially at the hands of someone who had taken an oath to protect and preserve the peace.”

Obituary -- Marty Parker 1964-2020

Martha L. “Marty” Parker, age 56, Worth, Missouri, died June 1, 2020 at the University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas.

Marty was born May 3, 1964 in Mount Ayr, Iowa.  She was the daughter of Donald and Sharon Elaine (Lovitt) Holman.

Marty attended Worth County High School, Grant City, Missouri.  A homemaker, Marty had also worked as a Supervisor/Line leader for Gee Cee Cap Company.  She had also worked in food service at the former Gentry County Hospital, Albany, Missouri.

Marty was an unknown hero who gave the gift of life through organ and tissue donation.  She impacted and saved the lives of people she didn’t even know.

Preceding her in death were stepfather Donald Fletchall, brother Jarret Auten and her grandmother Martha Lovitt.

Her survivors include:  Husband, Doug of the home, Worth, son Chris (Tory) Parker, Creston, Iowa, daughter Rosanna (Justin) Georgetti,  Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Mother Sharon Fletchall, Grant City, Father Donald Holman, brothers Don (Gail) Holman, Warrensburg, Missouri, Gene (Christy) Auten, Grant City, four grandchildren Ryer and Rogan Parker, Parker and Jonny Georgetti, and a host of friends and loved ones.

Funeral Services were held at 11 AM, Saturday, June 6, 2020 at the Andrews-Hann Funeral Home, Grant City. Burial was in the Grant City Cemetery. Memorial: Midwest Transplant Network, Midwest Transplant Network,1900 West 47th Place, Suite 400, Westwood, KS 66205.

Arrangements: Andrews-Hann Funeral Home, Grant City
andrewshannfuneralhome.com

Obituary -- Wendell Sisk 1924-2020

Wendell Albert Sisk was born May 23, 1924 to Merl and Verga Sisk on a farm near Allendale, MO and graduated Grant City, MO high school in 1941.  He attended NMSU in Maryville, MO for 2 years, then entered the US Air Force during World War II.   He was Commissioned and flew combat missions in the SW Pacific as Navigator on a B-24 bomber.  He continued his affiliation with the Air Force and Air National Guard until retiring with the rank of Lt. Colonel in 1968.

In 1947 he married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Stevens, who remains.  Together they raised 4 children, Steven of Lakewood, CO, Michael (Cheryl) of Omaha, NE, Susan (Matt) Harding of Olathe, KS, and Marcie (Drew) Monrad of Overland Park, KS, who with their spouses provided 11 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren.
  
In 1948 Wendell graduated from OSU in Stillwater, OK with a General Business degree.  He worked as Asst Sales Mgr. at Stevens-Spainhower Motors in Grant City selling Ford cars, trucks, and farm machinery.  Wendell’s parents and only brother were killed in an automobile accident in 1949, after which he operated the Sisk Farms until 1961.

He then joined the General Services Administration and served as Assistant Building Manager of the Mart Building in St. Louis, Building Manager of the Federal Buildings in Des Moines, IA including 26 Post Office facilities in southern IA, and Building Manager of the St. Louis Ordinance Plant.  In 1969 Wendell served the GSA Regional Office in Kansas City as Chief of Accident and Fire Prevention for all Federal buildings in MO, IA, NE, MN, KS, ND and SD.  Later he oversaw and assigned space for Federal agencies in these states.  He became Chief of Operations of all Federal buildings in the 7 state region.  In 1972 Wendell recruited and trained a 400-man armed Federal Police Force.  They provided security and protection to Federal Buildings in the 7 state region.  In 1978 Wendell became Building Manager of the Federal Buildings and leased facilities in Kansas City, MO and Kansas City, KS.  He retired in 1981.
Wendell joined the Shriners in the 1950s.  He remained active for over 50 years.

Wendell and Shirley, his beloved bride of 73 years, loved to travel by RV.  They toured all of the US, Canada, Mexico, Central and Western Europe.  They were long time members of the Wally Byam International Caravan Club, an Airstream RV owners organization and led many Airstream caravans from coast to coast.

Graveside services for Wendell will be at the Grant City Cemetery in Grant City, MO at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 13.  The service will be streamed on the Andrews Hann Funeral Home Facebook page.
Due to the CDC recommendations and social distancing practices, a lunch is planned outside at the Allendale Park immediately after the service.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made in his memory to the Shriners Hospitals for Children at 2900 Rocky Point Dr. Tampa, FL 33607 or to Ascend Hospice at    4550 W. 109th St. Suite 210, Overland Park, KS 66221.

Thursday, June 4, 2020

24 Gentry County Virus Cases, All Four Deaths Occurred at One Facility

24 out of Gentry County’s 43 Coronavirus cases and all four of its deaths occurred at one facility, Pine View Manor, according to a report posted by KQ2 and the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services, which publishes federal data regarding the Coronavirus in nursing homes at the request of the Trump Administration. Pine View Manor has begun facility wide testing on May 21st. 

Missouri also collects and publishes information regarding the Coronavirus in nursing homes. Since May 18th, facilities have been required to report deaths to the state within 24 hours.

Clarinda Woman Injured in Head On Collision With Semi Truck

A Clarinda woman was seriously injured in a head-on collision with a semi-truck on Route 71 one mile north of Burlington Junction Thursday at around 10:40 am. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2009 Honda CRV driven by Carly Rahn (20) of Clarinda was southbound on 71 and a 1999 Peterbuilt Standard driven by Douglas Richardson of Hopkins was northbound. The Honda crossed the center line into the northbound lane. The Peterbuilt attempted to avoid collision and traveled off the east side of the roadway. The vehicles collided head-on. The Honda traveled off the west side of the roadway and came to rest on the west side. The Peterbuilt overturned, came to rest on its passenger side in the roadway, and caught fire. Rahn was seriously injured and taken to Mosaic in Maryville. Richardson was not injured.

Wednesday, June 3, 2020

Worth County FCCLA Qualifies 14 Students to Nationals

Fifteen members of the Worth County FCCLA were prepared to compete at the Missouri State Leadership Conference at the end of March in Tantara, but schools started closing down and the conference was cancelled.  "The kids were disappointed to say the least, but we were hoping that it could be rescheduled later in the school year", stated adviser, Jonell Cook.  "I was so proud of this group because everyone who had competed at the Regional competition in Maryville advanced to state".   

The FCCLA National website was still inviting members to attend the conference scheduled for July 5th in Washington D.C until about 3 weeks ago.  At this time, the National FCCLA organization stated that they were planning to try a "Virtual" Conference.  Since the Missouri Leadership Conference had canceled and no one was able to compete, there would be no Missouri competitive events (STAR events) qualifiers to advance to Washington D.C.  Missouri FCCLA officials got together and decided to look at the Regional (14 Regions in Missouri) scores, with a standard deviation component factored in, to be able to have representatives to compete in STAR events at the National level.  "I couldn't believe it when I started getting emails from the state telling me that my kids were eligible to compete virtually at NLC. When the final email came in, Worth County FCCLA would have 14 out of 15 qualify to attend!" said Ms Cook.  Students have been busy taking pictures and uploading their projects and speeches, with the help of Mrs. Emily Maudlin,  in order to compete in the FCCLA National Leadership Conference next week. This has truly been a year to remember!  

Qualifying this year were Aivry Griffin, Caydee Sherer, Claire McElvain, Anna Spainhower, Jill Hardy, Taylor Sanders, Merrideth Spiers, Justina Wimer, Alison Anderson, Misty Helt, Lincoln Moore, Allison Larison, Braidy Hunt, and Wyatt Abplanalp.

Aivry (10th grade) chose to compete in the Job Interview event.  She was interested in the health field and did extensive interviews with local health care providers.  Aivry also shadowed Ashley Harding, a nurse practitioner. Aivry will be the only one to compete via Zoom interview with FCCLA National judges.

Caydee and Claire (9th grade) & Anna and Jill (11th grade) are competing in the Chapter Review and Display event.  The process of this event is to showcase all the projects, meetings, and activities that each local chapter has completed for the year. 

Taylor (9th grade) is competing in the Fashion Construction event.  Taylor constructed the garment in Ms Cook's Textiles/Clothing class, used the dress in FCCLA competition, and submitted it for Mrs. Spiers' Romeo and Juliet project. Taylor had never sewn and this was quite an accomplishment.

Merrideth (12th grade) & Justina (10th grade) are competing in Promote & Publicize FCCLA! event.  Both girls were responsible for Facebook posts, school announcements, newspaper articles, Instagram accounts that promoted Worth County FCCLA accomplishments/recognition. Merrideth created a Worth County recruitment PSA  that has been shared with Missouri FCCLA!  

Alison (9th grade) is competing in a new category called  Say Yes to FCS Education.  Alison had to research colleges with a Family & Consumer Science degree, interview several area FACS teachers, and create lesson plans and activities to teach 7th graders about the dangers of vaping/juuling.

Lincoln and Misty (10th grade) & Wyatt, Allison, and Braidy (11th grade) are both competing in the Food Innovations category.  This year's prompt from the National FCCLA was to create a vegan dish. Misty and Lincoln created a lunchtime wrap making a cilantro mint chutney, chickpeas, cauliflower and avocados while the team of Wyatt, Allison, and Braidy created a tofu dish containing beets, wild rice, miso paste, shallots, and celeriac root.  Both teams enjoyed learning more about vegan cooking and getting creative in the kitchen.

Three New Coronavirus Deaths Reported in Gentry County

There were three new Coronavirus deaths reported in Gentry County Wednesday, and two new cases, the Tri-County Health Department and Northwest Mo Info report. Gentry County has had 43 positive tests for the virus as of Wednesday. There were no new positive tests for either Worth, Nodaway, or Harrison County.

The first person was a man in his 60’s. The second was a woman in her 80’s, and the third was a woman in her 90’s.

Skidmore Man Injured in Wreck

A Skidmore man was injured in an accident near Skidmore Wednesday morning at around 7:13 am. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2005 Dodge Stratus driven by Christopher McCourt (28) of Skidmore was northbound on 113 one mile north of Skidmore when he swerved to avoid hitting a deer. He overcorrected, traveled off the east side, struck an embankment, and overturned. The vehicle came to rest on its top. McCourt received minor injuries and was taken to Mosaic Life Care of Maryville.

DeKalb County Sheriff Killed in Accident

DeKalb County Sheriff Andrew Clark was killed in a wreck on Highway 36 and Route M one mile north of Osborn Wednesday. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2019 Chevy Pickup driven by Clark (43) of Maysville was southbound on Route 33 crossing Route 36 and a 2020 GMC SUV driven by Robert Carpenter (71) of Diller (NE) was eastbound on 36 at 11:20 am. The SUV struck the passenger side of the pickup, and then both went off the south side of 36, coming to rest on their wheels facing southeast. 

Clark was taken to Mosaic in St. Joseph, where he was pronounced dead at 12:07 pm. Carpenter received moderate injuries. Three passengers, Susan Carpenter (70) of Diller (NE), Lexi Cary (17) of Beatrice (NE), and Kaylee Carpenter (17) of Beatrice (NE) all received minor injuries. 

Clark was the second sheriff in Northwest Missouri to pass away in office. The Harrison County Sheriff passed away earlier this year.

Courthouse News for June 3rd, 2020

On May 26th, Northwest Mo Info reports that a Northwest Missouri State University student, Kylan Harrell, was shot and killed in Ferguson. He was an Organizational Communication Major at Northwest.

On May 26th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Linda McIntosh (60) of St. Joseph alleging Possession of Controlled Substance, Receiving Stolen Property, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On May 26th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Robert Rice filed charges against Alex Chaney (32) of Conception Junction alleging that his dog had bitten another person or animal (2nd or subsequent). 

On May 28th, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against Molley Parkhurst (21) of Eagleville alleging Assault. Northwest Mo Info reports that the charges arose after the defendant allegedly tackled and struck the victim in the face with a closed fist, causing injury. 

On May 29th, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against Gregory Braddy (54) of Gravois Mills (MO) alleging Driving While Revoked.

On May 29th at around 10:13 pm, two individuals were noticed standing around a car inside the drive-thru window and ATM machine at the US Bank in Mount Ayr. After visiting with the individuals, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Richard Wik (23) of Mount Ayr on a Probation Violation from Decatur County. 

On May 29th, while she was shopping at either Hy-Vee or Wal-Mart in Maryville that evening, a Hopkins woman reported that someone had keyed her car.

On May 30th, Ringgold County Sheriff’s Deputies found a vehicle parked outside the Dollar General in Mount Ayr belonging to Kevin Ray (30) of Delphos. He was known to have outstanding warrants in Missouri and Iowa. He was arrested on charges of Failure to Appear in Iowa and Missouri. 

On May 31st, a Sheridan resident reported that a fox that a neighbor had been feeding broke into her son’s chicken coop and killed off all of his chickens.

On June 1st, KSIB of Creston did a news segment about the rampant sign vandalism taking place in Union County. Last year, there were 125 signs damaged. In just the last three months alone, 50 signs have been damaged.

On June 1st, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against David DeMing (29) of Spickard alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony), Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Insurance, and No Seat Belt.

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.

Monday, June 1, 2020

Gentry County Coronavirus Cases Skyrocket

Coronavirus cases in Gentry County have skyrocketed over the last two weeks. As of May 21st, there were five positive cases there according to figures from the Tri-County Health Department. As of Monday afternoon, the total number of Coronavirus cases stood at 41. There was one death. 

As of Monday afternoon, there were 4 cases in Worth County, 14 in Nodaway County, and 12 in Harrison County. The biggest number of cases is in Buchanan, with 717 cases.

Obituary -- Craig Stevens 1957-2020

Steven Craig Stevens, age 63, Grant City, Missouri died unexpectedly at his parents' home in Grant City, Saturday, May 29, 2020.

Craig was born January 29, 1957 in Mount Ayr, Iowa.  He was the son of Everett Darrell and M. Carolyn "Connie" (Craig) Stevens.

Craig was a 1975 graduate of Worth County R-I High School in Grant City.  While in school Craig was active in FFA and enjoyed all sports, football, basketball and track.  Craig was a veteran of the United States Army serving his country in Vietnam.

When he returned home, he began farming.  He enjoyed both livestock, raising crops and selling hay.
In addition to the farm he had worked as a supervisor for York International in Albany, Missouri.  Before retirement he served as a supervisor in the welding/fabrication department with the sheet metal workers.
Craig was preceded in death by his father, Darrell and his son William Craig Stevens.

His survivors include: daughter, Amanda Dykeman, Lynn Center, Illinois, three grandsons, Derek, Landon and Tyler Dykeman, his mother, Connie Stevens, Grant City, sister, Lisa (Clay) McNair, Maryville, Missouri, brothers, Ed (Kim) Stevens, Parkville, Missouri, Eric (Jana) Stevens, Kearney, Missouri and his fiancé' Glenda Wineland, Garden Grove, Iowa, nieces, nephews and a host of other friends and loved ones.

Funeral Services will be held at 10 AM, Friday, June 5, 2020 at the Andrews-Hann Funeral Home, Grant City.  Rev. Len Green will be officiating.  The family will receive friends from 6-7 PM, Thursday night, June 4. Burial will be in the Miller Cemetery near Denver, Missouri.  Memorial: Craig Stevens Memorial Fund.
Protocol for Covid 19 of social distancing and building occupancy will be observed at both the funeral and the committal services.

Arrangements: Andrews-Hann Funeral Home, Grant City.

andrewshannfuneralhome.com