More About Worth Businessman John Costin

The late Bill Gladstone wrote about John Costin, who ran the Costin store in Worth back during the turn of the 20th century. It was posted online by the Worth County Chronicle. Costin operated the store from 1899 to 1910, when he sold it to his son, Dick. Several other people subsequently ran the store there until the Worth Tornado destroyed it in 1947. 

Costin was one of the original families of Worth County; he moved there in 1855 when it was still part of Gentry County. The land back then was considered swamp land, and he acquired a ton of land that others considered worthless. For that, he was nicknamed “Swampy.” In 1878, he owned around 920 acres of land, and by 1902, he owned around 1,100. 

Costin served as the Worth County Treasurer in 1864 and Worth County Sheriff and Collector in 1868 and 1870. 

In 1866, Costin presented a petition to the Worth County Commission asking that the county seat be moved back to Smithton, which was the original county seat. That petition was denied. However, a post office was established there in 1875, which was known as the Prohibition Post Office. 

Costin also operated stores in Oxford, Smithton, and Grant City.

Courthouse News for September 30th, 2020

 On September 19th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Clayton Dredge (40) of Mount Ayr on a charge of Domestic Abuse Assault. 

On 09/21/20 at approximately 5:14 pm Ringgold County Sheriff’s Office received a call that Cassandra Still (31) of Mount Ayr rear-ended Charles Davis (49) of Mount Ayr’s vehicle in front of Dollar General in Mount Ayr. Still was traveling eastbound on South St in a Red Chevy Equinox when she approached Polk St. The Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department says Still was not paying attention when she rear-ended Davis, who was stopped in the roadway in a Red Pontiac Grand Prix to turn left into the Dollar General parking lot. The Pontiac had minor damage but was driven away from the scene. The Chevy had significant amount of damage and was towed by Glendenning’s. Ringgold County Hospital EMS transported Davis to Ringgold County Hospital for evaluation.

On September 22nd, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against James Robinson (33) of Hopkins alleging Sexual Abuse, Trespass, and DWI. The Nodaway County Sheriff’s Department says that the charges of Sexual Abuse and Trespass arose after a 19 year old girl called the Sheriff’s Department and reported finding the defendant in their home uninvited. 

On September 23rd, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Amber Johnson (42) alleging Possession of a Controlled Substance. Bond was set at $2,000, cash or corporate surety.

On September 23rd, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Nicholas Freund (19) of Maryville alleging DWI.

On 09/24/20 at approximately 10:09 pm, Ringgold County received a call that Clarence Frame (23) of Greenfield (IA) put his vehicle into the ditch at P27 and 190th Street. Upon arrival and investigation, Deputy Baker and Deputy Eggleston located a Black Pontiac G6 in a pasture. Frame was traveling southbound on P27 when he swerved to miss a deer. When Frame swerved, he over corrected and lost control of the vehicle; resulting in the vehicle crossing the northbound lane, through the east ditch, and a fence where it came to rest in the pasture. Frame was examined by Ringgold County Hospital EMS for injuries then transported to Ringgold County Hospital for further examination. The Pontiac had significant amount of damage and was towed by Glendenning’s.

On September 24th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Michael Krzyzopolski (29) of Maryville alleging Property Damage.

On September 24th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Madison Murphy (19) of Maryville alleging Stealing.

On September 24th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Derrick Williams (44) of Kansas City alleging Stealing.

On September 24th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Jace Steenhoek (21) of Bagley (IA) alleging DWI.

On September 24th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Matthew Goodpasture (20) of Albany alleging two counts Stalking (Felony). Bond was set at $4,950, cash or corporate surety. Northwest Mo Info reports that the charges arose after the defendant allegedly made over 1,200 prank calls since June 18th to the victim and their place of employment, disguising their phone number.

On September 24th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Zayne Evans (26) of Chillicothe in Gentry County on a Parole Violation (Possession of Controlled Substance) and a Caldwell County Warrant (Aggravated Assault).

On September 25th, a Worth woman reported that a Joe Biden sign had been stolen. This is in addition to the one that was reported on September 19th. There have now been four reports of Joe Biden signs in the area being stolen recently.

On September 26th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Otto Reinhardt (53) of Amherst (NY) in Harrison County on a Colorado Warrant for Probation Violation.

On September 26th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department received a call about a woman at a residence in Mount Ayr who was refusing to leave. The Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Samantha Meek on a charge of Public Intoxication.

On September 26th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department received an open 911 call at 1:56 am that sounded like a domestic situation in progress. As a result, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Tia-Lee Jeanette Ferguson and Kenneth Weaselhead on charges of Domestic Abuse Assault. They are being held on no bond until seen by the magistrate.

On September 26th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Jeremy Foster (29) of Grant City alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony). 

On 09/27/20 at approximately 9:15 pm Ringgold County received a call from Decatur County about a vehicle that hit some cows. Levi Jarred (22) of Ellston (IA) was traveling on 180th St in a White Chevy Tahoe when he hit 1 cow and 3 calves, owned by Bradford Crandall (34) of Kellerton (IA), that were standing in the middle of the roadway. Jarred’s Tahoe had severe disabling damage and Crandall's cattle were deceased. Jarred had no injuries. 

On September 29th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Jessica Roy (24) of Gilman City in Gentry County on a charge of 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.

After Lull, Coronavirus Cases Spike Again in Nodaway County

After a lull in Coronavirus cases for the last few weeks, cases have begun spiking again in Nodaway County. On Thursday, September 29th, the Nodaway County Health Department reported that there were 13 new cases, the biggest increase in quite some time. 

The affected individuals include one male between 10 and 19, one female and one male between 20 and 29, two females between 40 and 49, three females and one male between 50 and 59, two females between 60 and 69, one female between 70 and 79, and one male between 80 and 89.

There are now 787 confirmed cases and two probable cases in Nodaway County. There are 72 active cases, 707 released from isolation, 24 total hospitalizations, three current hospitalizations, and 10 deaths.

Trump Administration Awards Development Grants to Area

The Trump Administration, along with Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director for Missouri Jeff Case, today announced 20 organizations statewide are being awarded a total of $1,068,984 to create jobs and increase economic opportunities throughout the state. Among them were three projects in the area.

USDA is awarding the grants through the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) program. Recipients may use the funds to provide technical assistance, training, and job-creation activities to small rural businesses. Among the recipients:

–Lettuce Dream, a nonprofit providing job and training opportunities for individuals with disabilities, will use an $18,422 grant to purchase new packaging, labeling, boxes, and marketing materials so it can enter a new retail market in Maryville, Mo.

–Northwest Missouri Enterprise Facilitation will use a $19,973 grant to provide training and technical assistance for business development services for existing and new, emerging small businesses in a six-county region of northwest Missouri.

–The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri, Inc. will use a $46,675 grant to provide training and technical assistance for business development services in northwest Missouri.

PSC Approves Middlefork Water Company Sale

On Wednesday, the Missouri Public Service Commission approved the sale of the Middlefork Water Company, which serves Grant City and Stanberry, to Public Water District Number One of Nodaway County, determining that the proposed transfer of assets is not detrimental to the public interest. Middlefork provides wholesale water services to its two customers, the cities of Grant City and Stanberry. They do not provide services directly to individuals. Nodaway County Public Water District Number 1 serves approximately 2,700 customers and serves as the permanent water supplier to all of Nodaway County and parts of Gentry and Worth Counties, including several smaller towns on a wholesale basis.

Tigers Drop Homecoming Battle to King City; Burned by Big Plays

Worth County’s football team dropped a homecoming battle to 1-3 King City 50-44 Friday. It was their first homecoming loss since 2004, when they lost 14-8 to Mound City. It was marred by sloppy play on both sides of the ball, including bad snaps, 11 penalties, and defensive lapses. The big play bug that cost Worth County against Albany the week before bit them again as they gave up one big play after another every time it looked like they would get back in the game.

King City got the opening kickoff, and from the start, they were playing like the team that was 3-1 and not 1-3, putting the ball in Parker Muff’s hands. Worth County knew what the play was going to be, and it didn’t matter, as Muff got the ball seven times on that series, including a 42 yard touchdown scamper that put them up 6-0 with 9:14 left. 

Then, one of many bad snaps cost the Tigers as they were forced to punt. Jackson Runde intercepted a pass to give Worth County the ball back at the 9, but they couldn’t move the ball, and Muff ran wild again. Worth County knew what the play was going to be and it didn’t matter as Muff bounced outside for 29 yards and another score to make it 14-0 after Corbin Taylor caught the extra points with 2:57 left.

Even that did not wake up the Tigers, as a penalty and a fumble stopped them and they were faced with fourth and three at the 40. Worth County tried to air it out, but nobody was open, and King City took over on good field position at the 40.

The Wildkats were in good position to make it three possessions and run away with it, but Jackson Runde recovered a fumble at the 35 to put Worth County right back in the game. From there, Andrew Alarcon nearly singlehandedly kept the Tigers in the game for the rest of the way. Worth County nearly stopped themselves with a holding penalty on the ensuing drive, but on second and 17 at the King City 27, Alarcon took a pitch right, reversed his field left, and found daylight as he put the Tigers on the board with 11:01 left to make it 14-6.

But then Landon Wells fooled everyone on a quarterback keeper that picked up 13 yards to the 40. Then, it was back to Parker Muff again, who carried King City to the 15, as Worth County knew what the play was going to be and still couldn’t stop it. Worth County finally got a push up front and stopped Muff, setting up third and 12 at the Tiger 17. But then Landon Wells started channeling Steven Willhite, and Corbin Taylor started channeling Cameron Jones, as he was faster than anyone the Tigers had on the field. Wells threw a strike to Taylor for a 17 yard pass as he got behind the defense and then caught another pass to make it 22-6 with 8:41 left.

Wells put up the kind of numbers that Steven Willhite and Zane Reed put up for Pattonsburg every Friday, throwing 19 for 25 for 198 yards. Corbin Taylor put up the kind of numbers that Pattonsburg’s receivers put up every game, catching 13 passes for 185 yards. 

King City gambled on the ensuing kickoff, but it backfired, as it bounced off a black shirt, only for Chance Jacobs to pounce on it at the 35 to give Worth County good field position. They took advantage of it as Andrew Alarcon took a sweep down the right side, reversed his field to the left, and picked up 15 to the 30. From there, Colt Cameron spelled him and burst through a big hole for 24 yards down to the one after an offsides penalty and carried it in the next play. He then bounced off a tackle and in for the extra points to make it 22-14 with 7:24 left in the second.

Worth County finally forced a three and out. A good punt pinned the Tigers on their own 5, but a first down run by Andrew Alarcon on third and 13 got them to the 15. But once again, sloppy play cost them as a bad snap sailed into the end zone and Alarcon was trapped for a safety to put King City up 24-14.

King City tried to take advantage of the turn of events, as they attempted a fake punt. Parker Muff took the ball on fourth and ten at their own 30, but Worth County tackled him five yards short at the 35. On the ensuing series, Braxton Hightshoe showed that he is a much stronger kid than enemy players realize, hitting Muff so hard at the end of a run that he knocked him out of the game at the King City 28. Worth County had a manageable down and distance, third and three at the 28, but then yet another bad snap sailed over everybody’s heads, and Worth County was forced to punt. 

It didn’t matter that Muff was out, as King City simply turned to the air. With 20 seconds left and King City at their own 39, it looked like Worth County would hold, but then Landon Wells aired it out and Corbin Taylor got behind the defense for a score to make it 30-14.

It looked like Worth County would come back and make a game of it like they did in the Doniphan West game as Andrew Alarcon got the Tigers right back in the game with a 59 yard run to start the second half and Braxton Hightshoe ran in the extra points to make it 30-22. 

With Muff out, King City put Ty Mooney in and they threatened again, getting as far as the Tiger 19. But on fourth and six at the 19, Worth County got pressure on Wells for once, and he threw it away and Worth County got it back with a chance to tie. They overcame a holding penalty as Braxton Hightshoe’s 12 yard run got a first down to the 30. Then, Hightshoe took a 42 yard keeper to the house with 6:17 left to make it 30-28.

It looked like the Tigers would take control like they did in the Doniphan West game as they forced a stop after King City got a first down, getting the ball on their own 22. But then, they returned to the sloppy play that bit them in the first half, as a fumbled snap and a false start killed the drive and they were forced to punt. Then, a lapse on special teams occurred as Taylor returned the punt all the way to the Tiger 24. That turned the momentum back in King City’s favor. Worth County had a chance to make a stand as King City was faced with third and 13 at the 27. But once again, Taylor got behind the defense and made a 26 yard grab to the 1, and Mooney took it in the next play. Jacob Boone’s extra point pass put King City back in control at 38-28 with 1:24 left. 

Worth County couldn’t answer; Andrew Alarcon took a 20 yard first down run to the 32, but then slipped and fell on his next run, and a busted play and an incomplete pass forced Worth County into fourth and 12 at their own 30. Instead of punting, Worth County tried a fake punt and did a reverse to Dylan McIntyre, but it fooled nobody and he was tackled seven yards short of the first down at the 35.

King City took advantage of the short field and Ty Mooney showed some speed as he ran by defenders like they weren’t even there to the 18. They were faced with third and five at the 13, but once again, Landon Wells aired it out and Corbin Taylor was quicker than anyone the Tigers had on the field, as he got behind the defense for a score with 10:35 left to make it 44-28.

Worth County marched right back down the field as Braxton Hightshoe threw a 23 yard strike to Jackson Runde, and Levi Cassavaugh took an option run 19 yards to the one. Two plays later, Andrew Alarcon got into the end zone and then hurdled a defender to add the extra points to make it 44-36 with 7:34 left.

But once again, Worth County got burned by the big play. First, Ty Mooney ran by defenders like they weren’t even there for 34 yards to the 19. Then, on third and seven at the 16, Wells threw a strike to Corbin Taylor for 15 yards to the one. Worth County tried to make a stand, but once again, Wells and Taylor connected on fourth and goal at the one to make it 50-36.

Worth County overcame a bad snap on the next series as Andrew Alarcon made a shoestring catch for 20 yards to the King City 22 on fourth and nine. On third and nine, Andrew Alarcon a screen pass and took it to the house with 3:06 left to make it 50-44.

Worth County nearly recovered the onsides kick, but it didn’t travel the necessary ten yards, and King City had to run 3:06 off the clock to get the win. Worth County nearly got the stop, but then their 11th penalty turned out to be the most costly as second and nine turned into second and four at the 32. Then, nobody covered Brody Tunks, and he was all alone for a first down at the 21. Worth County still had a chance to get a stop, but Brody Tunks picked up six on third and four to get the first down and King City could kneel down to run out the clock.

Frantic Tiger Rally Against North Harrison Falls Short

 Worth County and North Harrison’s softball teams put together the first of two epic battles Thursday, with North Harrison building up an 8-0 lead, only for Worth County to put together a frantic rally that fell just short as they fell 8-5. 

North Harrison was riding the wave of a 1-0 nine inning win over Hamilton, in which they broke up Julia Kanoy’s no-hit bid in the final inning after having been in hot water the whole game. This looked like a perfect trap game; last year, Worth County was riding the momentum of clinching the GRC West title, winning the King City Tournament, and beating traditional softball power Stanberry. North Harrison came in and won, sending the Tigers into a tailspin in which they dropped five out of their last six games.

But the game started off well for North Harrison, as Carly Rinehart struck out three batters in Worth County’s first; the only blemish was when Morgan Beagle beat out a scratch hit. Rinehart backhanded Anna Spainhower’s hard line drive in the second and Lola Breshears caught Megan Cassavaugh’s fly ball in the second.

The green shirts finally got on the board in the second when Rainey Fordyce beat out a slow roller to second. Camden Castleberry put down a bunt and third baseman Anna Spainhower airmailed the throw, putting Fordyce on third and Castleberry on first. Camden stole second, and then Kami Gibson grounded out to score Fordyce and Jaci Davis grounded out to score Castleberry to put North Harrison up 2-0.

Carly continued her mastery of the Tigers in the third, striking out the side, getting a called third strike on the inside corner on Ali Brown, getting another pitch on the inside corner to strike out Allison Larison, and shutting down Aivry Griffin. North Harrison had a chance to add to their lead in the third, but Trendi Johnson was shot down stealing after leading off the inning with a single. Jayliegh Robins singled down the right field line, but right fielder Hailey Adwell made a great play to stop her at first. Later, after Carly Rinehart flied out, Megan Cassavaugh picked her off, and she was out in a rundown.

North Harrison seemingly broke open the game in the fourth when Emma Craig walked and Rainey Fordyce reached on an error when Jill Hardy bobbled her grounder at short. Camden Castleberry bunted again, and it succeeded beyond her wildest expectations as she got it past everyone for a base hit and Craig came all the way home to score as Fordyce advanced to second. That set up the big inning after Fordyce and Castleberry advanced on a wild pitch. Kami Gibson singled just over Larison’s outstretched glove at second to score both, Jaci Davis struck out, and then Baily Briggs singled to right center. Morgan Beagle cut it off to keep Briggs to a single, but Kami Gibson showed some speed as she flew all the way home from first to make it 6-0.

Trendi Johnson hit it hard, but right at Jill Hardy, who forced Briggs at second, but then Jayliegh Robins hit one into the gap in right center for a double as Johnson scored all the way from first. Carly Rinehart doubled to left center to score Robins to make it 8-0.

Worth County started laying off Rinehart’s rising fast ball and started getting better swings as a result, but Shamrock catcher Emma Craig threw out Braidy Hunt out stealing after she had walked to start the fifth. Later, she picked off Megan Cassavaugh from first, one of several successful pickoff plays she has had this year. 

North Harrison seemed to have the game under control in sixth and threatened to end the game in their half as Baily Briggs singled. Trendi Johnson forced Erica Gerken (running for Briggs) at second, but then Jayliegh Robins hit a screamer at Jill Hardy which she snagged to rob her of extra bases. She doubled Johnson off first, and a totally different Worth County team came to bat in the seventh.

First, Hailey Adwell, who had struck out every time she faced Rinehart before, shot a single to right just over second basemen Trendi Johnson’s glove. Morgan Beagle hit a grounder to short, and Adwell successfully beat out the force play to put runners on first and second. Jill Hardy flied out to center, but Adwell advanced to third. Braidy Hunt walked, and then Megan Cassavaugh singled just past short and went to second on a throw to third as two runs scored. That put runners on second and third with one out and two runs across. 

Anna Spainhower popped out to Kami Gibson at short, but then Ali Brown crushed a double to right center to score two. Allison Larison singled to right to score Autumn Cousatte (running for Brown), and Aivry Griffin singled to bring the tying run to the plate before Hailey Adwell struck out to end the game.

24 NEN Students Quarantined During First Month

Around 24 NEN students have been quarantined by the Nodaway County Health Department in the first month of school, according to a letter that the school posted on Facebook. This includes 23 students who were close contacts, and one who was a known positive case. This accounts for 10% of the student body. Some have been identified as close contact outside of the school, and some have been identified as close contacts within the school.

Close contact is defined as someone who is within six feet for 15 minutes or more. 

The school is practicing handwashing, social distancing, masks, frequent cleanings, and having students who are sick stay home. Temperature checks are now done in classrooms, as that yields more accurate readings after students get acclimated to the building.

Obituary -- Miriam Clutter 1937-2020

On September 18, 2020, after a brief illness, Miriam Ruth Clutter was welcomed into Heaven.  Miriam was born June 4, 1937 in Sheridan, Missouri, to Ward and Carmen (Barnes) Campbell.  The family moved to Corning and then to Le Mars where Miriam completed her junior year of high school.  The family then moved to Mount Ayr where she attended her senior year at Mount Ayr High School, graduating in 1955. 

In January, 1956 she married John Clutter of Grant City, Missouri.  John and Miriam spent most of their first 20 years of marriage living in several towns across New Mexico.  In 1977 they settled in Independence, Missouri where John passed away in 1997.  Relocating to Mount Ayr in 2007, Miriam lived out the rest of her days in the town where she felt most at home.

Miriam’s many interests included bird watching, amateur photography, oil painting, furniture repair and refinishing, and sewing. Over the years she occasionally drove a school bus, including in Mount Ayr, where she was the first woman school bus driver.  In later years, she loved flower gardening and taking in pets that needed a home.  She was also a church pianist in many churches, beginning at the age of twelve in her own father’s church.

She leaves behind her four children:  Sanford Clutter, Mount Ayr; Susan (Jon) Bone, Carrollton, Texas; Sherwin (Cindy) Clutter, Aurora, Illinois; and Shelley (Darrell) Patterson, Independence, Missouri.  She has ten grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.  Also surviving are her sister, Yvonne Kinkade, Sun City, Arizona and Rev. Phillip (Kathy) Campbell, Douds, Iowa.  Preceding her in death are her husband, John Clutter, parents Ward and Carmen Campbell, and brothers Cleo Campbell and Doyle Campbell. 

The family requests that memorial gifts be designated for cancer research at Mayo Clinic.  Memorials can be made online at www.mayoclinic.org/development or mailed to:  Department of Development, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905.

Obituary -- Charlie Bowen 1948-2020

Charles Eugene “Charlie” Bowen, 72, of Maryville, MO, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 27, 2020, in North Kansas City, MO.

Charlie was born in Clarinda, IA, on February 12, 1948.  His parents were Charles G. and Erma Jean (Walker) Bowen.  They preceded him in death.  He was also preceded by his sister, Donna Jean Bowen.

He lived a short time in Clarinda, and then to Ravenwood, MO.  He graduated from Northeast Nodaway High School, class on 1966.  He took Bible School classes in Norfolk, NE, and married many people in the area.  He lived many years in Maryville. 

Charlie was the manager at Tightline UV Lures, Maryville, MO.  He had worked with his Dad at Bowen Body Shop, in Ravenwood.  And he and Teresa had owned Looks Fitness Center in Maryville.  He attended the Countryside Christian Church, Maryville. 

He was handy and a ‘jack of all trades’.  He had repaired cars in his home shop, and if you needed something, he either had it or knew where to get it. 

In 1989, Charlie and Teresa Lynn Key were united in marriage in Las Vegas, NV. 

Other survivors:  son, Anthony (Danny) Bowen, Des Moines, IA, daughters: April McMahon, Kansas City, MO, Brandi (Noah) Bonde, Maryville, and Lonia Bowen, also of Maryville; 3 brothers: Lee (Charlotte) Bowen, Barnard, MO, Ray (Shelley) Bowen, Trimble, MO, and Jerry Bowen, Venice, FL; 5 grandchildren, Will and Brody McMahon, Haven Bonde, and Max and Mila Bowen; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Charlie has been cremated under the direction of the Bram Funeral Home, Maryville, MO.

Memorial graveside services will be at 1:30 PM, Friday, October 2, 2020, at the Oak Hill Cemetery, Maryville, MO.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family to help with final expenses.

Worth County FBLA Officers Named

Officers for the Worth County FBLA have been named for 2020. They are Jill Hardy (President), Tate Welch (Vice President of Contests), Keelin Engel (Vice President of Service Projects), Aivry Griffin (Secretary), and Taylor Sanders (Treasurer). 

The FBLA will have its annual kick-off event on Thursday, October 1st at the softball field following the East vs. West softball game. There will be pizza and kickball for grades 9 through 12. Any student who is interested in learning more about FBLA is invited to attend.

Grant Call for Third Round of CARES Act Funding for Worth County

 A third round of CARES Act funding for Worth County is underway. The Northwest Missouri Regional Council of Governments is now accepting application for reimbursement requests. Applications for the third round must be received by 5 pm Friday, November 20th, 2020. Completed packets may be emailed to amy@nwmorcog.org, faxed to (660) 582-7264, or mailed to the Regional Council at 114 West Third, Attn. Amy Dowis, Maryville, MO, 64468.

Small businesses and nonprofits located within Worth County are eligible to apply. Application requests for reimbursement must be based on eligible expenses or costs incurred during the period of September 5th through October 31st, and must satisfy the requirements of the CARES Act and Treasury guidance. Applicants will be required to submit sufficient supporting documentation such as invoices, receipts, and proof of payment.

The program funds will be allocated to eligible and qualified small businesses and non-profits based on availability. All grants will be processes on a first-come first-review basis to qualified applicants. Please note that applications for funds are considered public information.

To be eligible, businesses must meet the following requirements:

–Must be a for-profit, independently owned business or franchise or non-profit organization geographically located within the borders of Worth County;

–Must possess a current city, county, and state license or permit to operate as applicable;

–Must provide proof of a business hardship created by COVID-19 (such as employee layoffs, purchase of added safety items, added expenses due to COVID-19).

–Must use funds for operational needs, such as employee expenses, lease or mortgage payments, utilities, materials, supplies, and services;

–Must be in compliance with local, state, and federal non-discrimination policy and overall good standing with city and county service providers as of February 1st, 2020. For instance, current on utility bills, no liens or judgements, and all taxes paid;

–Must be a business with 30 full time equivalent or fewer employees.

Local governments and political subdivisions located within Worth County are eligible to apply for both reimbursement requests and future COVID-19 response needs. The Regional Council will review the applications for completeness, and the final decisions will be made by the Worth County Commission. Award recipients must enter into a written agreement with the county prior to disbursement of awarded funds.

The application packet is available from the Northwest Missouri Regional Council of Governments and can be downloaded from their website, www.nwmorcog.org. For more information, contact Amy Dowis (660) 582-5121.

Teen Wreck Injures Two Near King City

Two teens were injured in a wreck near King City Saturday at around 5:03 pm. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2008 Dodge Ram 2500 driven by Dylon Pappert (19) of Guilford was westbound on Route M five miles northeast of King City when the vehicle went off the north side. The driver overcorrected, west off the south side, struck an embankment, and returned to the roadway, going off the north side of the roadway. Pappert was not injured in the wreck. Two passengers, Katlyne Pappert (17) of Guilford and Tylee Copple (18) of Cameron, received moderate injuries and were taken to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph.

Obituary -- Melissa Chapman 1977-2020

Melissa Chapman was born on October 13th, 1977 and moved to heaven on August 23rd, 2020. She was born in Lancaster (PA) to Ruth Ann Dart and John Shelby Pitch Sr. Both were waiting to welcome Melissa to her eternal home.

Melissa’s greatest joy in life was family and friends. She was blessed with three amazing children, Marlana Marie, Jessie Aiden, and Conner Lee. Marlana gave her seven gorgeous grandchildren, Harley, Bryson, Jayden, MaKayla, Ariah, Hayden, and Noah. 

On October 14th, 2003, Melissa pledged her heart to the love of her life, Jerry Chapman, who cherished her every day that God blessed them with. Melissa also leaves behind her brothers, Douglas Dart and Jeffery Griffen, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Melissa spent her life loving others. She made her life of service as a CNA/CMT and primarily cared for the elderly with the love and devotion she showed to her own family. She included a host of friends she claimed as family as well. She was always the friend who had a smile, a hug, a joke, or would sit and cry with you and will be deeply missed by everyone she touched.

Melissa will forever be remembered for her perfect hair, makeup, and nails, and the smile that made everyone around her smile with her. As Melissa always said, “I love you more than you will ever know,” and that she did!

Obituary -- Charles Pickering 1945-2020

Charles Emery Pickering, age 74, passed away Sunday, September 27, 2020 at his home in Mount Ayr, Iowa surrounded by his family.

Charles was born October 1, 1945 at the family home in Worth, Missouri.  He was the son of the late Emery Carol and Ethel Lucille (Holmes) Pickering.

Charles attended rural elementary school in Worth and Sheridan.  He was a 1963 graduate of Grant City High School, Grant City, Missouri.  After high school Charles joined the United States Military.

An Army veteran, Charles served with the 129th Field Artillery Regiment.

Charles was united in marriage to Linda Pittsenbarger on June 5, 1993 at the Church of Christ in Worth, Missouri.  They enjoyed twenty-seven years of married life together.

A rancher Charles loved all aspects of farming both livestock and agriculture.  He also had been a bulldozer operator working construction.  

Charles was a member of the Worth Church of Christ, where he served as a Sunday School Teacher.  When his health allowed him to be active, he enjoyed various community gatherings such as the Chuck Wagon Club, Saddle Club, 4-H Horsemanship, and the July Coyote and Hound Hunters Association.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers Gary and Boyd Pickering.

His survivors include; wife Linda of the home, Mount Ayr, one daughter Angie (Ted) LeMay, Russellville, Alabama, four sons Donnie Pickering, Grant City, Todd (Crystal) Pickering, Wakefield, Kansas, Dustin (Courtney) Wiley, Grant City, Derick (Jolynda) Wiley, Lathrop, Missouri, 14 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, a brother Carol Pickering, Grant City, nieces, nephews and a host of other friends and loved ones.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 PM, Thursday, October 1, 2020 at the Andrews-Hann Funeral Home, Grant City, where the family will receive friends from 5-7 PM, Wednesday, September 30, 2020.  Burial will be in the Grandview Cemetery, Albany, Missouri.  Military honors will be provided by the Worth County Memorial VFW Post #3123.

Memorials:  Worth Church of Christ or Worth County Senior Citizen Center 

Social distancing will be observed for both services.  Face mask are recommended by those attending.  The funeral service will be live-streamed on the Andrews-Hann Facebook page.

Obituary -- Shirley Maudlin 1937-2020

Shirley Faye Maudlin, age 83, Albany, Missouri, died Thursday, September 24, 2020 at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph, Missouri.

The daughter of Leslie Garland and Gladys Leota (Harker) Brown, Shirley was born August 30, 1937 in Worth County near Allendale, Missouri.

On January 15, 1954 she was united in marriage to Eldon Duane Maudlin in Grant City.  To this union three children were born Gary, Linda and Sharon.

Shirley was a homemaker.  She also was a born-again believer in Jesus Christ having followed him in baptism.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, husband Major Eldon Maudlin (US Army Retired), daughter Sharon Lea Wooderson, two brothers, Allen and Larry Brown and one sister Helen Brown.

Survivors include:  son Gary (Donna) Maudlin, Albany, daughter Linda (Larry) Williams, Albany,  five grandchildren Bradley (Emiley) Maudlin, Jeffery (Mariah) Maudlin, Ryan and Kyle Williams, Stephanie (Chris) Steger, seven great grandchildren Gabriella, Eleanora, Malachi and Harlan Maudlin, Jacob, Hannah and Christian Steger, three sisters Marie (Dean) Weddle, Laverne (Steve) Huddle, Linda Ruth Stewart, a brother Will (Linda) Brown, nieces, nephews and a host of other friends and loved ones.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, September 29, 2020 at Andrews-Hann Funeral Home, Grant City, where the family will receive friends from 5-7:00 PM, Monday, September 28, 2020.  Burial will be in the Kirk Cemetery, Allendale, Missouri.  Services will be livestreamed on Andrews-Hann Funeral Home Facebook Page.  Social Distancing measures will be followed with face masks recommended.

Memorial: Kirk Cemetery, c/o Joy Miller, 12492 St Hwy T, Grant City, MO  64456.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Andrews-Hann Funeral Home, Grant City.

Tiger Golf Excelling in Tournaments This Year

 The Lady Tigers have done well this golf season. Each golf match has seen improvement in scores by all the girls. Members of the golf team are Keelin Engel, senior; Justina Wimer, junior; Molly Miller, junior; Claire McElvain, sophomore; and Brooke Lininger, freshman. 

The Lady Tigers started their season on September 9th where they placed second behind Gallatin with a team score of 273. Justina Wimer led the Lady Tigers with a 9-hole round of 59, followed by Keelin with a 64. On September 3rd, they traveled to Bethany where they again placed second with a team score of 254. Keelin led the Lady Tigers with a 55 placing her at 3rd high individual for the match and Justina followed with a 62. 

September 8th found the Lady Tigers in Albany where they placed 2nd behind a tough Gallatin team. Keelin placed 2nd high individual with a 49. following her was Justina Wimer with a 61. Claire McElvain was third for the Lady Tigers with a 67. The Lady Tigers defended their home turf and won the match at Grant City on September 14th. They shot a team score of 209. Keelin Engel was the medalist with a 49 and Justina Wimer was runner up medalist with a 52. Claire McElvain shot a 53, Molly Miller shot a 55 and Brooke Lininger shot a 73. This was Senior Night for the Lady Tigers. Keelin was honored as the lone senior for the team.

September 15th the Lady Tigers traveled to Gallatin for the Gallatin Tournament.  The team finished 5th overall with Keelin Engel finishing 11th individually with a 18-hole score of 110. Justina Wimer finished with a 123, Molly with a 138 and Claire with a 125. September 16th saw the team back at Stanberry. They finished 2nd with a 9-hole team total of 255. Keelin shot a 61, Justina a 63, Molly a 65, Claire a 66 and Brooke a 75. 

The Albany Best Shot Tournament was held September 21st. Teams of Keelin and Justina shot a 94 finishing 9th overall and Molly and Claire shot a 109. September 22nd the Lady Tigers returned to Bethany where they placed 2nd and shot a team score of 226, the best of the season. Keelin turned in a 52, Justina  a 56, Molly a 58, Claire a 60, and Brooke a 77.  Keelin was the runner up medalist for the match. 

To finish off the week of September 21st, the Lady Tigers traveled to Tarkio to play in the East Atchison Tournament. The Lady Tigers finished 2nd overall with Justina Wimer medalling at 3rd high individual with an 18-hole score of 109. Keelin finished with a 121, Molly with a 135 and Claire with a 128. The team score was a 493. 

The Lady Tigers play the Grand River Conference match on Monday, September 28th at Cameron. The district golf match will be held October 12th at the Mozingo Golf Course in Maryville, MO.  This match will determine who will advance to state. Go Lady Tigers!!

Debbie Thummel Featured by Department of Agriculture

Debbie Thummel of Sheridan was featured in the following Farm for Life column by the Missouri Department of Agriculture. It features farming operations from around the state.

“My philosophy on the farm is that the three things that I truly enjoy are kids, cattle and Christ, and they all come together here in his creation,” said Deb Thummel. “Anytime that I can involve kids, cattle and Christ in the same thing, I’m a very happy person.”

Thummel’s faith is planted as deep as her agriculture roots on their sprawling cow-calf operation in northwest Missouri. As a fifth generation farmer, Thummel got her start on her family’s dairy farm in southwest Iowa.

“I truly believe that farming chose me, I don’t believe I chose it,” said Thummel. “I grew up in a little town called Shannon City, Iowa, and my mom and dad dairy farmed. From an early age, I was in charge of the bottle calves. It’s been a natural progression for me to like the cattle and be involved in cattle.”

After graduating from Northwest Missouri State in Maryville, Thummel and her husband began building their cow-calf operation.

“We do what we need to do with the land that we have, and thankfully we have land that fits itself to cattle production, and that’s what we do.”

Thummel’s love for cattle comes from their relational tendencies. As someone who values relationships herself, she enjoys watching the bond form between a dam and her calf. Her passion for cattle is matched only by her desire to advocate for the agriculture industry.

“Less than 2% of us farm now, so that means 98% of us don’t,” said Thummel. “How are people going to know what goes on out here if we don’t talk about it?”

Thummel is the Region 4 Vice-President of the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, which is the second largest state affiliate of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. She’s proud to be a part of the organization and advocate on behalf of Missouri’s farmers and ranchers on the state and national levels. 

“I think it’s important to advocate for organizations like MCA so we can tell our story,” said Thummel. Her work for the organization has turned into a family affair as her daughter Sydney has taken on the role as the manager of membership for the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association.

With her two sons involved in the family’s cattle operation, and her daughter actively involved in MCA, the cattle industry truly is Thummel’s life.

“Farm for life means to me that without the farm, there wouldn’t be life,” said Thummel. “Then I could take that conversely and say my life is the farm. That phrase in itself conjures up all kinds of emotions, memories and hopes for the future.”

Courthouse News for September 23rd, 2020

On September 15th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Brandon Hauber (26) of Tarkio in Nodaway County on a Nodaway County Warrant (Displaying Plates Belonging to Another). He was also charged with Failure to Register.

On September 17th, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against Joshua Marshall (34) of Paxico (KS) alleging Leaving the Scene and Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident).

On September 17th, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against John Stegmayer (84) of Martinsville alleging DWI, No Valid License, and Failure to Stop.

On September 18th, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against Nicholas Mercer (31) of Bethany alleging Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Insurance, and No Plates.

On September 18th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Jeremiah Searles (40) of Denver alleging Murder (Felony) and Abandonment of a Corpse (Felony). His initial appearance was on September 21st. A bond appearance hearing is scheduled for September 28th. Searles is being represented by Richard Euler.

On September 18th, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against Tiffany Wadley (38) of Owatonna (MN) alleging Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident), Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Valid License, and No Seat Belt.

On September 19th, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against Daniel Akins (34) of Bethany alleging Domestic Assault (Felony). 

On September 19th, a Worth woman reported vandalism to her Joe Biden sign.

On September 19th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Austin Haupt (23) of Maryville alleging two counts Domestic Assault.

On September 21st, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Clyde Rauch (62) of Grant City alleging two counts Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.

On September 21st, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Jennifer Allen (49) of Albany in Gentry County alleging DWI (Felony, Persistent Offender).

On September 21st, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Charles Morin (42) of Grant City in Worth County on a St. Joseph Warrant for Failure to Appear (Careless Driving). He was also charged with Driving While Suspended, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Insurance.

On September 21st, a large Joe Biden sign near Carmack was stolen.

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.

Tigers Drop Albany 56-54 in Cliffhanger; Face King City Friday

 Worth County’s Tigers beat Albany in the most heartstopping of fashions Friday, first falling behind, then building a big lead, and then nearly losing it at the end before they finally hung on for the 56-54 win.

South/Nodaway-Holt beat Worth County up front and Albany started off right where the Spartans left off, moving the ball down the field on their opening drive behind their big line. Tryce Floyd got a first down run into Tiger territory at the 39, and Ethan Mercer carried the rest of the road to the 24. Finally, Floyd threw a 19 yard strike to Kaeden Hutchinson from the 21 to the two, and Mercer put it in the end zone on the next play with 9:07 left in the first to make it 6-0.

But Worth County had Andrew Alarcon, who hurt his ankle in the previous game, back. The Tigers marched right down the field from their own 19 to the Warrior 34. They were faced with fourth and six from there, but then Andrew Alarcon took a spread draw to the house with 7:24 left, bouncing down the right side. Alarcon ran in the extra points to make it 8-6.

This time, Albany went three and out, and Worth County started moving the ball again. This time, Braxton Hightshoe threw a 33 yard pass to Jackson Runde, who emerged more and more as a go-to receiver Friday night. That put the ball on the 17. Worth County was faced with fourth and one at the eight, but Hightshoe converted it to keep the drive alive. Worth County had a fourth down and goal at the 1, but then Hightshoe converted again for the score with 1:52 left to make it 14-6.

Albany marched right back down the field again as Tryce Floyd bounced outside for 39 yards to the four and Ethan Mercer was in the end zone from one yard out with 24 seconds left in the first. Nate Adwell broke up the extra point pass in the end zone to preserve the Tiger lead at 14-12.

Worth County was faced with fourth and three at their own 39, but this time, the blocking broke down and they were denied. Albany took advantage as Tryce Floyd picked up 10 to the 26, Ethan Mercer picked up another 15, and nobody guarded Kaeden Hutchinson, who was all alone for a strike early in the second to put the green shirts on top again at 20-14.

The Tigers found the yards harder and harder to come by as Albany assigned Tryce Floyd to shadow Andrew Alarcon and hit him every single time he touched the ball. On the next series, Floyd hit Alarcon on four straight plays, yet Alarcon converted a fourth and one at the Tiger 25. Worth County had another fourth and three at their own 32, but an offsides penalty gave them new life at the 37. That was all they needed as Alarcon bounced outside for a 43 yard score with 5:38 left to knot it at 20-20.

A costly 15 yard facemask penalty on the kickoff could have put Worth County in the hole, as the Warriors started with the ball on their own 36. Albany got as far as the Tiger 21, but on fourth and one, Justin Dye denied Ethan Mercer and the Tigers took over on downs. A pass from Braxton Hightshoe to Jackson Runde covered 34 yards, and then Andrew Alarcon took it the remaining 25 yards, hitting a big hole up the middle with 2:14 left. Braxton Hightshoe converted a keeper to make it 28-20.

But then Albany completely changed things up, inserting Kemper Cline at quarterback, and moving Tryce Floyd to a receiver and motioning Mercer out of the backfield a lot. The move paid off immediately as Mercer had grabs of 7 and 21 yards, and Hutchinson caught an 8 yard pass as the Warriors marched to the Tiger 5. Cline took it the rest of the way and Floyd caught the extra point pass to make it 28-28 again.

But with 40 seconds left in the half, Worth County set up a perfectly executed screen pass to Andrew Alarcon that went for 32 yards to the Warrior 24. Worth County grounded the ball to stop the clock, and then Andrew Alarcon took it five yards to the 18 before the Tigers took their final timeout of the half. With 11 seconds left, Braxton Hightshoe threw a strike to Jackson Runde, who was all alone in the end zone. Andrew Alarcon eluded Floyd’s rush and got into the end zone to convert the extra points and make it 36-28 at the break.

A fortuitous break got the Tigers in the end zone to start the second half, as they had a free possession thanks to ending the first half with a score and getting the ball to start the second half. Alarcon bounced outside and the black shirts got Floyd blocked this time as he took off 19 yards to the Warrior 33. The Tigers stalled there, and Floyd dropped through unblocked to stop Alarcon for a loss of three to set up fourth and 11 at the 34. A bad snap that could have given Albany good field position was recovered by Hightshoe, and he threw a pass which caromed off someone else and Jackson Runde brought it in for a score with 8:58 left. Hightshoe cut it up inside on an option play to make it 44-28.

Albany went back to their normal formation, and Floyd picked up 20 yards to the Tiger 33. It might have gone for a touchdown, but Chase Atkins came out of nowhere to make a shoestring tackle on Floyd to deny a score. Albany went for it on fourth and three at the Tiger 26, but Floyd was stopped by Austin Welch one yard short of the first down and Worth County took over. 

The Tigers moved the ball again, getting to the Warrior 31, and then Andrew Alarcon dragged a Warrior defender 15 yards down the field for a 26 yard gain to the five. Braxton Hightshoe took it the rest of the way after getting a block from Justin Dye, and the Tigers were up 50-28 with 4:53 left.

But then Albany decided they were more effective with Cline as their quarterback in their spread formation, and they marched right back down the field again. A jet sweep to Hutchinson picked up 25 yards for a score with 2:01 left, and the Warriors were still in the game down 50-34.

Albany seemingly recovered an onsides kick, but the ball didn’t travel the necessary ten yards, and Worth County got the ball back at their own 35. The Tigers drove down as far as the 14, but then a fumbled handoff gave the Warriors the ball back at their own 12. Albany tried to go for it on their own 20, however, and tried to air it out. But Cline’s pass went too far, and Worth County used the short field to their advantage as Braxton Hightshoe threw a strike to Jackson Runde from 12 yards out with 9:54 left to make it 56-36.

A busted play on a handoff forced Cline to run with it, and he found plenty of daylight to the Tiger 16 on the next series. But on the next play, he overthrew his intended receiver, and Dylan McIntyre picked him off in the end zone. Nate Adwell burst through for a 43 yard run to the Warrior 22, but then Worth County couldn’t add to their lead, and proceeded to give up too many big plays down the stretch to make things interesting. 

First of all, Cline threw a swing pass to Mercer out of the backfield, and nobody guarded him as he went for a 48 yard score with five minutes left. That made it 56-40. Then, Worth County tried a flea flicker on third down, but the pass was badly underthrown, and Kaeden Hutchinson returned it all the way to the Tiger 32. Cline then aired it out to Hutchinson for a score, Ethan Mercer ran in the extra points, and all of a sudden, it was still a ballgame at 56-48 with 3:11 left. The blocking broke down for Worth County on its next series, and they went three and out, giving Albany the ball on its own 25 with 2:01 left, still plenty of time left. Once again, they only needed one play to score as Cline aired it out to Kaeden Hutchinson for 55 yards with 1:51 left to make it 56-54. But then Dylan McIntyre and Jackson Runde tackled Cline short of the goal line to deny the game-tying extra points.

But then Albany proceeded to recover the onsides kick at the Tiger 37, and the game continued. An incomplete pass and a draw play went nowhere, and then Dylan McIntyre broke up a pass on third down to set up fourth and 14 at the Warrior 39. It looked like all was lost at that point, as a Tiger defender slipped and fell, and Tryce Floyd was all alone for what would have been the game-winning score. Nobody was within 20 yards of him. But the ensuing pass was thrown way too far, and the Tigers could finally kneel out the clock and claim the win.

Panthers Overcome Second Quarter Scare, Down King City

The Pattonsburg Panthers overcame a second quarter scare and downed King City 78-46 Friday. The Panthers gave up 38 second quarter points to King City, who turned a 20-8 deficit into a 46-42 halftime lead. But the Panthers pitched a shutout in the third and fourth quarters, getting 22 in the third and 14 in the fourth for the win.

Pattonsburg overcame a 243 rushing yard performance by Parker Muff by getting back to their brand of moving through the air on offense and forcing turnovers on defense; King City fumbled it away four times and threw a pick.

Zane Reed had another banner night at quarterback for the Panthers, throwing for 592 yards, completing 50 of 72 passes for seven scores. Cameron Jones completed a pass for 55 yards for another score to put Pattonsburg over the 600 yard mark in passing. Reed ran for another 43 yards and three scores.

Brett Emig, out the last two weeks, came back fresh and anchored both sides of the ball. He had 21 catches for 327 yards and added 16 tackles on defense. Cameron Jones had 15 catches for 211 yards, and Brody Langfitt 14 catches for 98 yards.

Nodaway County Announces 9th Coronavirus Death

The Nodaway County Health Department announced its 9th Coronavirus death over the weekend. As of Monday, there were 726 confirmed cases in the county. The number of active cases has gone down, with there being 50 active cases. There are 667 people who were released from isolation. Hospitalizations were down as well, with there only being three current hospitalizations as of Monday.

Shamrocks Stun Hamilton, Run the Table in Five Games

After a busy week last week, ending with a 4-0 record over Class 3 Maryville, and HDC conference foe's Gilman City, Tri-County, and Grundy Co., the Lady Shamrocks' run their winning streak to 8 games with 1-0 extra inning victory over the MEC power Penny Lady Hornets from Hamilton in a 9 inning pitchers duel last night.  

The Lady Shamrocks came into the game knowing they had a tall task in front of them, facing All-State Pitcher, Julia Kanoy who took the mound for the Lady Hornets.  Kanoy was as advertised, and was dominant on the mound, ending the night with 18 strikeouts over her 9 innings of work.  However, it was the Lady Shamrocks that were able to take advantage of a miscue, turning that into the winning run in the top half of the 9th inning.  Both pitchers, Carly Rinehart for the Shamrocks and Kanoy for the Hornets were on their game from the start.  Kanoy stayed perfect through 8 innings of work, allowing no walks, no hits, and striking out 17 Shamrock batters through 8 innings.  Rinehart was efficient, staying ahead of batters with strikes early, and allowing her defense to make plays.  She ended the night surrendering no runs on only 4 hits, with 11 strikeouts and 4 walks......with all four walks being intentional.  

The Hornets were able to threaten in the bottom of the 4th when a one out double by the Hornet SS Allen put her in scoring position.  Rinehart was able to coax a pop out to Kami Gibson at 3rd for the second out, bringing Kanoy to the plate for the second time.  With 1st base open, Coach Craig elected to walk Kanoy intentionally to pitch to Brown, who had previously struck out in the 2nd.  Brown followed with a ground ball to Ruby Heintz at short.  Heintz had to go to her right to make a play on the ball while the runner from second was trying to advance to 3rd.  Heintz, who wasn't going to have a play at first, attempted to get Allen going into third but the ball glanced off her helmet and away from Gibson, the Hamilton base runner headed home in an attempt to score but Gibson was able to quickly gather the ball and fire a throw to Shamrock catcher Emma Craig at home, who put on the tag for the 3rd out of the inning.  

Hamilton again loaded the bases with 2 outs in the 6th,  with another hit by the SS Allen, followed by an error and an intentional base on balls for the second time to Kanoy.  Brown then flied out to Fordyce in center to end the threat for the Hornets in the 6th.  A big moment in the bottom of the 7th was when the Lady Hornet catcher was able to reach on a dropped 3rd strike, putting a runner on 1st with one out.  With the 9 hitter at the plate, showing bunt, Shamrock catcher Emma Craig was able to snap a throw down to second baseman Trendi Johnson who slipped in behind the Hamilton runner to pick her off at 1st for the second out of the inning.  

Hamilton again loaded the bases in the bottom of the 8th on a lead off single and two intentional walks one to the 3 hitter Allen, and the other to pitcher Julia Kanoy for the 3rd time of the night.  The intentional walks paid off as Brown flew out to Shamrock right fielder Lola Breshears to end the Hornet threat in the 8th.  The 9th proved to be the deciding inning as the Lady Shamrocks, stymied by Kanoy to this point in the game, came to the plate determined to put the ball in play.  After some better at-bats the last couple innings, freshman SS Ruby Heintz led off the top of the 9th for the Lady Shamrocks.  Behind in the count after fouling off consecutive pitches from Kanoy, Heintz grounded a squibber to the mound that glanced off Kanoy's glove.  Kanoy was able to gather the ball, but with Heintz hustling down the line, hurried the throw to 1st, and overthrew her first baseman with the ball scooting down the right field line.  Heintz was able to end up sliding in safely at 3rd base.  With no outs and the winning run 60 feet away, Jaci Davis attempted to get a bunt down on a Kanoy riseball, but popped it up to the Hamilton catcher for the first out of the inning.  Kanoy then struck out Trendi Johnson for her 18th K of the night and the second out of the inning, bringing Jayliegh Robins the Shamrock first baseman and leadoff hitter to the plate for the 4th time in the game.  Her previous 3 at bats, Kanoy got the upper hand, striking out Robins all three times, but Robins was able to adjust and drove and 1 strike pitch up the middle for the Shamrocks first hit of the game, plating Heintz with the game's first run.  The Shamrock bats woke up somewhat as Carly Rinehart followed with a liner up the middle for the Shamrocks second hit of the game, advancing Robins to third, on the hit, and taking 2nd herself on the throw to 3rd base by the Hamilton center fielder.  With runners at 2nd and 3rd and 2 outs, Emma Craig smashed a hard liner that Swindler, the Hornet second baseman, was able to glove and throw to first for the 3rd out.   The bottom of the 9th brought up the 7-8-9 hitters for the Lady Hornets, a part of the lineup Rinehart had dominated thus far.  She went to work, striking out the first two batters, before the 9 hitter Pingleton popped out to Gibson at 3rd to end the game.  Offensively for the Lady Shamrocks, Ruby Heintz scored the lone run, with Jayliegh Robins driving in the only run for the Lady Shamrocks, going 1-4 on the night.  Carly Rinehart then added a 9th inning single as well.  

Shamrocks shut out Maryville 3-0

Carly Rinehart struck out 13 Spoofhound hitters on the way to a 3-0 victory last Monday evening in Maryville.  The Lady Shamrocks were able to strike first offensively when Carly Rinehart reached on a one out single in the top of the 1st.  Emma Craig followed with an RBI double, and ended up at 3rd on a throwback to the infield.  Rainey Fordyce was able to follow with a hard ground ball to 2nd, scoring Craig from 3rd.  That was only scoring for rest of the game until Shamrocks were able to push an insurance run across in the 7th, after loading the bases with nobody out.  Trendi Johnson scored on a passed ball as she was running for Baily Briggs who had reached on a single.  The Shamrocks left runners at 2nd and 3rd in both the 3rd and 4th innings, but couldn't get the hits to push the runs across.  The 3 runs proved to be enough offensively,  as senior Shamrock hurler Carly Rinehart struck out 8 out of the first 9 batters she faced.  She surrendered two harmless singles to Maryville freshman pitcher Ella Schulte in the bottom of the 4th and 6th innings, and then gave up a lead off single to Spoofhound senior catcher Briley Watkins leading off the bottom of the 7th.  She surrendered her only walk of the game to Ashlynn Alexander following the single by Watkins, putting multiple runners on base for the first time of the night for the Spoofhounds.  A ground out to Heintz at SS, moved the runners to 2nd and 3rd, and brought the tying run to the plate.  Maryville left fielder reached on a fielders choice, when Shamrock third baseman Kami Gibson made a fake throw to first, coaxing Briley Watkins off third base.  The senior was able to dive back in safely as Gibson's throw back to third was just a little late.  Rinehart struck out the next batter for her 13th K of the game, as the Maryville second baseman C. Viau popped up to Rinehart to end the game.  

Shamrocks shut out Gilman City 9-0

The Lady Shamrocks were able to come away from Gilman City with a 9-0 HDC conference win behind stellar pitching from Shamrock senior Emma Craig, and a balanced offensive attack that put pressure on the Gilman City defense all night long.  Camden Castleberry and Kami Gibson led the way offensively, with both hitting home runs for the Lady Shamrocks.  Camden drove in 2 runs with 2 hits and a home run, while Kami drove in 4 runs on 2 hits with a grand slam home run and a walk on the night.  Emma Craig, Jaci Davis, and Rainey Fordyce each added hits for the Shamrocks to round out their offensive attack.  Defensively Emma Craig, after walking one batter in the first inning, locked it down, striking out 12 Lady Hawk batters, and surrendering only 4 singles on the night.  

Shamrocks score 17 unanswered to beat HDC foe Tri-Co in 3 innings

Emma Craig once again took the mound for the Lady Shamrocks on back to back nights.  This game started a little differently however, with Tri Co leadoff hitter Carly Turner reaching on a dropped 3rd strike to start the game. A ground ball to second base for the first out of the game moved Turner to second.  Gutshall then walked and Turner went to 3rd on a passed ball to put runners at the corners for the Mustangs.  Ricki Cook got the games first hit up the middle, putting Tri-Co on the board first.  Craig ended the threat with two strikeouts to end the top half of the first.   It didn't take long for the Shamrock bats to take back control as they followed with 3 straight hits by Robins, Castleberry, and Craig to start the game, with Castleberry driving in Robins, and Craig driving in Castleberry to even the score after only 3 Shamrock batters.  3 more Shamrock runs scored in the 1st when Baily Briggs and Ruby Heintz singled and were driven home by Jaci Davis.  The Shamrocks batted around in each of the first 3 innings, plating 6 in the first, 5 in the second, and 6 more in the bottom of the 3rd to end the game by the mercy rule.  Freshman Jaci Davis led the way offensively for the Lady Shamrocks going 3 for 3 with 2 doubles and 5 RBI.  Emma Craig followed with 4 RBI's on two hits and a double.  Rainey Fordyce tripled and drove in a run, going 2-3.  Jayliegh Robins, Camden Castleberry, and Ruby Heintz each added 2 hits apiece, and Baily Briggs added a single and a pair of RBI's on the night as well.  The Shamrocks scored 17 runs on 14 hits, while the Mustangs scored a pair of runs on 2 hits.  Emma Craig was the winning pitcher, allowing 2 hits, striking out 8 and walking a pair in her 3 inning of work.  

Shamrocks potent offense, pitching proves too much for Grundy Co

A pair of Shamrock pitchers, senior Carly Rinehart, and freshman Erica Gerken combined to throw a 3 inning perfect game against HDC conference foe Grundy Co. last Thursday evening in Eagleville.  After a busy week of softball that saw the Shamrocks take wins at Maryville on Monday, Gilman City on Tuesday, and at home over Tri Co on Wednesday......Grundy Co proved no match for the Shamrocks who improved their record to 4-0 on the week, turning back the Lady Panther 15-0 in 3 innings.  The Lady Shamrocks offense erupted for 6 runs in the 1st and 7 in the 2nd,  before scoring a pair of runs in the 3rd to end the game.  Emma Craig, Jayliegh Robins, and Jaci Davis each added two hits apiece for the Shamrocks.  With Jayliegh Robins, Lily Shovick, Emma Craig, Carly Rinehart, and Camden Castleberry each hitting a double on the night.  Ruby Heintz, Halle Morgan, Katelyn Briggs and Baily Briggs each added singles in the balanced Shamrock offensive attack.  Carly Rinehart took the win for the Shamrocks going 2 innings, allowing no hits with 4 strikeouts.  Erica Gerken closed the game for the Lady Shamrocks, finishing with 1 strikeout.  

Possible Exposure to Positive Coronavirus Case in Mount Ayr

The Ringgold County Health Department says that if you were at the Mount Ayr American Legion Supper on Sunday, September 20th, you could have been exposed to a lab-confirmed Coronavirus positive case. Please be monitoring for symptoms, and notify your provider or be tested if you get symptoms. Symptoms include, but are not limited to cough, fever, chills, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headaches, recent loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

DWI Accident Near Savannah Claims Lives of Two People

A drunk driving accident claimed the lives of two Rosendale residents Sunday evening near Savannah at around 7:52 pm. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2011 Dodge Pickup driven by Andrew Schneider (24) of Rosendale was southbound on Route C five miles north of Savannah, while a 2008 Chevy Van driven by Danny Donahoo (69) of Rosendale was northbound. The Patrol says the Pickup traveled into the northbound lane, striking the van head on. Donahoo and a passenger, Diane Donahoo, were pronounced dead at the scene and Schneider received moderate injuries. The Patrol says Schneider was not insured.

Subsequently, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Schnieder in Andrew County on charges of DWI (Death of Two or More People) and Careless & Imprudent Driving.

On Monday, Steven Stevenson, Andrew County Assistant Prosecutor, filed charges against Schnieder alleging DWI (Death of Two or More, Felony), two counts Involuntary Manslaughter (Felony), Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident), and Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway. Charges listed are mere allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Bond was set at $15,000 Cash or Surety with requirements of house arrest and an electronic monitoring device.

Iowa Man Seriously Injured in Albany Wreck

An Iowa man was seriously injured in a UTV wreck Saturday at around 5:00 pm on 305th Street three miles northeast of Albany. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2017 Polaris Razor driven by Howard Patterson (70) of Nevada (IA) was eastbound on 305th Street and failed to negotiate a curve. It traveled off the east side of the roadway and overturned. Patterson was seriously injured and taken to Mosaic in Albany. A 12 year old boy, who was a passenger, received minor injuries and was also taken to Mosaic.

Parnell Women Injured in Wreck

Two Parnell women were injured in a wreck near Maryville Wednesday at around 10:38 am. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 2006 Saturn driven by Linda Thurman (46) of Parnell was eastbound on 136 when she observed another vehicle backing out of a private drive. She overcorrected, traveling off the south side of the roadway, striking an embankment. Thurman and a passenger, Doris Thurman (84) of Parnell, received minor injuries and were taken to Mosaic in Maryville.

Obituary -- Gary Wilson 1966-2020

Gary D. Wilson was born August 2, 1966 in Bethany, Missouri, the third child of Max and Linda (Shafer) Wilson.  Gary passed away September 17, 2020 at the age of 54.

Gary graduated from Albany R-III High School, class of 1984 and from there he went to work moving dirt all over the countryside.

On May 23, 1987, Gary married the love of his life Lisa (Long) Wilson and to this union two sons were born: Branden and Kevin.  Branden and Kevin followed in their father’s footsteps in helping with the family business until his death.

Gary had many passions in life from fast wheels to having fun and moving dirt, but as Gary softened in life, the only thing he enjoyed more than moving dirt and cracking a good joke was his four granddaughters, Braylen, Adalyn, Rylee and Rory.

He was preceded in death by his wife Lisa on January 26, 2003, father Max and father-in-law, Larry Long.

Survivors:  sons, Branden (Tammy) Wilson and granddaughters, Braylen, Adalyn and Rylee; Kevin Wilson and granddaughter, Rory; mother, Linda Wilson; sister, Nancy (Ron) Hinkle; mother-in-law, Lila Long, all of Albany; brothers and sisters-in-law; nieces, nephews and cousins.

Graveside Service and Burial:  3:30 PM Monday, September 21 at the Grandview Cemetery, Albany.  The family will receive friends 2:00 – 3:30 PM on Monday prior to the graveside service at the Roberson-Polley Chapel, Albany, where friends may call anytime after 10:00 AM Monday. Happy Hour following the graveside service at Bar-X in Albany. The family would like to request everyone wear casual attire. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice and can be mailed to the Roberson-Polley Chapel, 403 N. Hundley, Albany, MO  64402.  Online condolences:  www.robersonpolleychapel.com

Mustang Volleyball Gets Rare Win, Drop Rockets in Four Sets

North Nodaway’s volleyball team only got one win in their first two years of existence. But they picked up their second win of the year, beating West Nodaway in four sets. They previously beat Union Star at the start of the campaign. They started off strong, winning the first set 25-8. They struggled in the second set, falling 20-25. They recovered to win the third set 25-18 and built up a big lead in the fourth set behind the serving of Jacquelyn Cline. But in a precursor of the Worth County/Albany game the next night, the Mustangs had an epic meltdown, losing the lead to the Rockets. But then the righted the ship and went on to win 25-19.

The big difference between Thursday’s game and the South Holt game was the fact that the Mustangs kept their composure when things did not go their way. North Nodaway had a winnable game against South Holt, which came into that game at 1-4, rallied to take a 21-20 lead in the first set, but then lost the next five points and then proceeded to lose the next two sets. But against West Nodaway, they did not get down on themselves when the Rockets made one of their big runs, finding their second and third wind.

North Nodaway was shorthanded, playing without Sarah Chesnut, who was injured in the previous game. That forced them to adjust, as Chesnut is one of two setters on the floor along with Cline. But it didn’t matter, as they broke out to a 15-0 run, fueled by Jadon Dobbins and her bullet serves; she had six aces during the run. Lauren Herndon got a tip, and Karissa Oberhauser and Dobbins both got kills. West Nodaway got the next five points, but never got closer than 10, and a pair of tips from Dobbins at the end finished it.

Lauren Herndon fueled the Mustangs to an 11-10 lead in the second set, getting a cross spike, a jump serve ace, and a tip; Jacquelyn Cline added a kill and Saylor Brown added a block. Several of the players are learning jump serves, which are a lot harder to handle. But then Riley Linville, who kept the Rockets going throughout the match, took over, getting several aces and kills as the Rockets took control for the win. North Nodaway struggled with their hitting that game.

Service aces from Jacquelyn Cline and Lauren Herndon, a tip from Saylor Brown, and a kill from Karissa Oberhauser put the Mustangs up 9-3 at the outset of the third match. West Nodaway closed to as close as 9-6, but then a pair of aces from Saylor Brown restored order for the Mustangs, and the hitting of Saryn Brown put the Mustangs up as much as 23-14. Linville fueled a late Rocket run and Abby Bragg added an ace, but then Lauren Herndon got a block for the final point.

North Nodaway seemed to pick off where they left off in the first set. After dropping the first two points, they were fueled by the serving of Jacquelyn Cline, who got six aces in a 10-0 run that put them up 10-2. Saylor Brown added a kill, and Lauren Herndon added a block. Herndon’s ace made it 12-3, but then disaster nearly struck as Linville got to the serve, and North Nodaway couldn’t handle her hard deliveries, as she got four aces in an 8-0 run that made it a game again at 12-11. The Mustangs then fell behind 17-15, but then they stopped the bleeding and Tessa Steele got a critical kill to put the Mustangs back out in front, placing one perfectly just in front of the back line to make it 18-17. Her defense on Linville down the stretch was key, as she forced her into some bad hits.

Under new coach Emily Bix, the Mustangs have eight players that they can rely on in key situations. She said that the chemistry was good, and that they all picked each other up when things did not go their way. Serving has become a strength for the young squad. “When we get those aces, it gets us up and sets the tone for the whole game,” said Herndon. The players are starting to buy in to the system. “It helps having a coach who has played and who can help us out,” said Herndon. “We’ve played together since junior high down, and we don’t let adversity get to us anymore.”

Bix credited several of her players for making critical plays during the game. Easily one of the most improved is Steele, who has emerged as one of the most versatile players on the team. “She can play any position, and I can use her to give one of the other players a break and talk to them,” said Bix.

The two freshmen, Lauren Herndon and Saryn Brown, have been a spark for the squad. Herndon, along with Saylor Brown, have given North Nodaway a blocking game that they didn’t have before, while Saryn Brown has grown a lot since last year emerged as one of the main hitters on the squad.

Obituary -- Jim Snead 1952-2020

James Burl Snead, 68, of Albany, MO passed away peacefully in St. Joseph, MO on Sunday September 13, 2020.  James was born in the same city where he passed on February 1, 1952 to parents James E. Snead and Betty Lee Jones Snead formerly of Lone Star, MO.

As a child growing up in Lone Star, James was closely knitted with family where he regularly worked with his father and grandfather on the family farm.  As a high school student, James was involved in Wrestling, Track, Football, FFA, Choir, Art and various other activities.  Outside of school, James enjoyed woodworking and fast cars.

When James graduated from Albany High School in 1970, he attended Northwest Missouri State University where he wrestled and majored in Industrial Arts and Technology.  James graduated from Northwest Missouri State in 1974, where he would later earn his Master’s Degree in Secondary Education in 1983.

James married Priscilla (Swafford) Snead in Albany, MO on July 28, 1974.  Later that summer, James and Priscilla relocated to Southeast Iowa where James began his teaching career.  While in Iowa, James taught Industrial Arts and Technology, Autobody and Fender, coached wrestling, and drove a school bus for more than a decade.

In 1990, James relocated to Albany, MO where he taught at Worth County High School and was head football coach.  That year, James lead the Worth County Tigers to their first winning season in 5 years, a season where they were picked to win 1 or 2 games.

The following year, James was given the opportunity to teach and coach in his home town and alma matter at Albany High School.  While teaching in Albany, James was given the opportunity to coach the sport he loved most, wrestling.  As head wrestling coach, James forged a great number of close lifelong friendships with his dedicated athletes and parents.  In addition to coaching wrestling for 8 seasons, James also spent a number of years coaching junior high football and girls track before he retired from teaching in 2008.

Outside of coaching and the classroom, James was a member of Lone Star Baptist Church, University Baptist Church, and later, Albany Baptist Church where his love for Southern Gospel music was showcased.  James was a talented bass vocalist where he sang in the Albany Baptist Church Choir, as well as a family gospel singing group with his wife, in-laws, and niece.  In addition to his love of gospel music, James was perhaps one of the most dedicated Amateur Radio (HAM) Operators one could ever come across, a hobby that was born out of his love for CB radios as a child.  Under his HAM call name WD0HMA, and CB handle, “Porky Pig,” James made numerous friends and had the occasional encounter with a few very famous people over the years that shared his love for the same hobby.

In later years, James enjoyed time on the family farm, the occasional trip to Branson with his wife Priscilla, and spending time with his son Nathan, daughter-in-law Michelle, two granddaughters Kylee and Kinley, and other friends, family, and visitors.

He is preceded in death by his parents James E. Snead and Betty Snead, father-in-law Reverend Earl F. Swafford, great niece Kayci Emerson, and other late and beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Priscilla Snead (Albany, MO), son and daughter-in-law Nathan and Michelle Snead (Frisco, TX), granddaughters Kylee Snead and Kinley Snead (Frisco, TX), mother-in-law Jean Swafford (Albany, MO), brother and sister-in-law Roger and Carole McIntosh (Albany, MO), nieces and nephews Megan, Matt, Brysen and Brayden Emerson (Greenfield, IA), niece Ryanne McIntosh (Greenfield, IA), and various other cousins and friends.

Graveside Service and Burial were held 3:00 PM Saturday, September 19 at the Grandview Cemetery, Albany.  The family received friends from 1:00 – 2:30 PM prior to the graveside service on Saturday at the Roberson-Polley Chapel, Albany.

Memorial Contributions: Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in care of the Roberson-Polley Chapel, 403 N. Hundley, Albany, MO  64402.  

www.robersonpolleychapel.com

Obituary -- Barbara Craig 1930-2020

Barbara Ann (Weable) Craig was born January 3, 1930 in Decatur City, Decatur County, Iowa and passed away on September 16, 2020 at Mercy Hospital in Des Moines, IA at the age of 90 years, 8 months & 13 days.

She was the third child of five children born to Maurice and Ada (Guilliams) Weable. She had a special childhood with an ever loving family of two brothers and two sisters.   Most of Barbara’s life was lived in Harrison County (MO) with the exception of five years of her early childhood. The family moved to the Jefferies farms when she was five years old which was just South of the Iowa state line into Missouri. After her marriage, she lived in Mercer County for seven years, then returned to Harrison County for the remainder of her life.

The first eight years of schooling was at the Hagan Country School which was near where the family lived. After graduation from the Cainsville High School in 1947, she married her high school sweetheart, Basil Craig, who was the love of her life. They were married January 4, 1948 at her parents’ home, and shared nearly 68 years together. To this union was born three sons and one daughter, Kenneth, Allen, Nancy and Maurice. Four other children were welcomed into their family and was raised as their own. Bob Stobbe, a special friend and classmate of Maurice’s, came in 1970.   In 1976 Barbara’s sister, Charlotte, passed away and her three youngest children came to live with the Craig family, Jamie, Kathy and Joe. Their father passed away in 1966.

They all attended the Andover RLDS Church, now known as the Community of Christ. Barbara, Basil and their two oldest sons, Kenneth and Allen, were baptized in the Big G Lake at Lamoni, Iowa on August 13, 1960. Barbara served as the Women’s’ leader for several years. Many friendships were made during the 41 years that the Andover women invited all the surrounding Churches to their annual “All Churches Tea” where they worshipped and fellowshipped together. Barbara’s home, her family and friends and the Church were the center of her life and her happiest times.

Barbara served as a Community and project leader for the Pawnee Peppers 4-H Club for several years. Many happy memories are the times the 4-H families spent together. All the children and great grandchildren’s school activities were also of special interest. After the children were raised Barbara worked as a cook at Karen’s Kitchen, the Dinner Bell and at a restaurant in Decatur, Iowa. Homemade cinnamon rolls were one of her specialties. Many enjoyed the raised doughnuts made by the family as Halloween treats.

Barbara loved the outdoors and farm life. She raised a large garden, which she loved to do and did much canning. For several years she had large iris gardens and other flowers which she enjoyed sharing with others. She made quilts for each of her children, her grandchildren and great grandchildren and others. She also liked to embroidery and scrap booking. She devoted time to babysitting for several children, whom she grew very fond of. She cared for her parents in their times of need.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Basil, of almost 68 years; parents, Maurice and Ada Weable; her brother & sister-in-law, Vane & Mary Weable; her sister and brother-in-law, Charlotte and Dave Frazier; her brother-in-law, Wayne Clark; her sister-in-law, Ethlyn Weable and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Harold and Evelyn Craig. Also preceding her in death was her niece, Valerie (Craig) Scroggins; nephews, Larry Weable, Bobby Frazier and Jamie Frazier and two great granddaughters, Brittany Zerbe and Ruby Ann McLain.

 Survivors include her three sons and one daughter, Kenneth (wife, Marilyn), Allen (wife, Peggy), Nancy and Maurice (wife, Lila); brother, Bill Weable and sister, Maureen Clark; grandchildren, Brandon Craig, Bryan Craig, Angie Baker, Amy Briggs, Shannon Craig, Lori Gibson, Sherri Rinehart, Tim Zerbe, Maurina Offield, Jared Zerbe, Faith Ann Marriott, Jodi Davis, Shelli Akers, Nathan Craig and Mandy Faubion; 37 great Grandchildren; 5 great-great grandchildren, several step-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, other relatives & friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, September 21 at the Eagleville Christian Church, Eagleville, MO under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home, Eagleville, MO. Burial will follow in Allen Cemetery, Eagleville, MO. The family will receive friends from 2:00-4:00 p.m. Sunday at the church where social distancing will be recognized and masks are recommended. Memorials may be made to Allen Cemetery and/or Andover Church in care of Roberson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 46, Eagleville, MO 64442. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.

Superintendent Dr. Matt Martz to Retire from Worth County

The Worth County R-III Board of Education met on Thursday, September 17, 2020 to conduct school district business.  At the end of the meeting, Superintendent Dr. Matt Martz announced his intent to retire at the end of the present school year. The board will prepare and approve a timeline for selecting the next superintendent at the October board meeting.

The board of education heard introductions from three district teachers, Megan Humphrey, third grade, John Lachowsky, HS Social Studies, and Alison Brandt, Family and Consumer Sciences.  The administrative team presented information about the opening of school and gave the board an update on items implemented for preventing the transmission of COVID.  Chris Healy, District Tech Administrator, presented information on the districts roll out of 1:1 computer accessibility.  

“We will assign each student in grades 3-12 a Chromebook beginning on September 28, 2020. These computers will eventually go home daily with students. Our goal with this program is to provide our students with the devices that we will need to use in the event that we have to go remote with our learning,” said Mr. Healy.

In other board business, the board approved a resolution which authorizes the superintendent to contact the county health department requesting that district employees receive essential workers status.  

“If we can get this classification, our employees that would be considered a close contact to an active case of COVID would still be able to come to work as long as they take the required precautions and remain symptom free.  We would not allow staff having symptoms or that have been asked to isolate to come to work,” said Dr. Matthew Martz, school superintendent. “Our first and foremost concern is the safety of our students and staff.”

Benefit for Rod Zollman

 A benefit will be held for Rod Zollman of Mount Ayr. A free will donation supper will be held on Sunday, September 27th from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Mount Ayr Fire Hall. Pulled pork, baked beans, green beans with bacon and onions, and creamy cole slaw will be served. On October 1st, Zollman will have a kidney removed due to suspected kidney cancer.

Rod is a lifelong resident of Mount Ayr and has been a member of the Fire Department for 41 years, and a cub scout leader for Troop 39 for over 20 years. 

If you would like to support him but cannot make it to the benefit, mail checks to 606 East Monroe Street, Mount Ayr, IA 50854 or visit his Go Fund Me page.

Obituary -- Bill Mozingo 1938-2020

Billy Fred “Bill” Mozingo, 82, was born July 10, 1938, in Grant City, MO. His parents were Estelle Myrtle (Porter) and Fred Bertram Mozingo. He passed away at the Mozingo family home on the evening of September 15, 2020.

Bill was proudly raised in Grant City, lettered in basketball and football, and graduated from Grant City High in 1956.

Amidst his collegiate studies, he wed Judith Ann Stevenson, with whom he shared 61 years of partnership, on August 30, 1959. To this union, two children were born; Jeffrey Allen and Cheryl Lynne.

He graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor's of Science degree in Agriculture in 1960. After Bill's graduation, he took a job with the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) in Neosho, MO, beginning a long career with the SCS. Bill's career with SCS led him to live in El Dorado Springs, MO; Montgomery City, MO; Audubon, IA; Lincoln, NE; and Washington, D.C.

Bill retired from the SCS in 1994 and returned to his boyhood home in Grant City, where he served as Presiding Commissioner for Worth County from 1999 to 2009. Additionally, Bill worked as a consulting inspector of hog confinement facilities for the Iowa Pork Producers Association.

In his spare time, Bill was an active participant in the community. He served on the Grant City Cemetery Board and Grant City High Alumni Board – where he was an enthusiastic representative for the Class of 1956. Bill was a member of the Masons, Lion's Club, and the Grant City Christian Church.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Estelle Myrtle and Fred Bertram Mozingo.

Bill is survived by his wife, Judith; son, Jeffrey (Barb) Mozingo; daughter Cheryl (David) Plate; grandchildren: Tyler (Christy) Mozingo, Samantha Plate, Corey Mozingo, Hannah Plate, and Rebecca Plate; as well as many dear friends.

Visitation will be held Sunday, September 20, from 6 – 8 P.M. at the Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City, MO. Funeral services, led by Reverend Len Green and Pastor Dirk Buffington, will take place on Monday, September 21, at 10:30 A.M. at the Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home. Interment to follow at Grant City Cemetery. The family requests all attendees wear a mask to ensure the health and safety of our loved ones.

The family requests any donations to be made payable to the Worth County Convalescent Center.

Denver Man Charged With Murder, Corpse Abandonment

On Friday, charges were filed that were related to the Melissa Chapman case. Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Jeremiah Searles (39) of Denver alleging 2nd Degree Murder (Felony) and Abandonment of a Corpse.

On August 23rd, Melissa Chapman went missing and her body was found after the Worth County Sheriff’s Department got a tip on the evening of Monday, September 14th. 

Searles is being held in Harrison County on related charges of Kidnapping (Felony), Domestic Assault (Felony), and Child Abuse (Felony). One of the stipulations of his bond was that he not have contact with Chapman. His bond was revoked on August 31st.

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

Maryville Craft Fair November 14th

The City of Maryville will be having their 8th annual Christmas Craft and Vendor Fair on Sunday, November 14th. Admission will be $1, and it will be from 9 am to 2 pm at the Maryville Community Center, 1407 North Country Club Road in Maryville. There will be over 70 vendors and crafters, and children can write letters to Santa. If interested in being a vendor, contact Maggie Rockwood at mrockwood@maryvilleparks.org. Masks will be required this year.

Services Set for Jeff Powers

Jeffrey Blaine Powers, age 53, Eldon, Missouri, formerly of Parnell, Missouri, died unexpectedly while working in Otterville, Missouri, on August 18, 2020.

Mr. Powers has been cremated.  Memorial graveside services and inurnment will be held at 10:00 AM, September 26, 2020 at the Oxford Cemetery, Oxford, Missouri.  Pastor Bill Bracken will officiate the service.   A celebration of life will also be held at 1 PM, Saturday, October 3, 2020 at Lake of the Ozarks State Park Public Beach #1 Shelter, Kaiser, Missouri.

Arrangements:  Andrews-Hann Funeral Home, Grant City.

Courthouse News for September 16th, 2020

On September 8th, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against Barbara Rairden (29) of Bethany alleging two counts Tampering with a Motor Vehicle (Felony). Bond was set at $15,000, cash only.

On September 8th, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against Ronnie Dine (40) of Grant City alleging Driving While Revoked.

On September 8th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Jeremy Smith (41) of Bolckow alleging Leaving the Scene and No Insurance.

On September 9th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Amogh Karney (25) of Omaha in Nodaway County on charges of Speeding and warrants from St. Joseph and Atchison County.

On September 10th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Office announced that they had received several reports of Social Security scam calls purporting to come from local numbers. They will tell you your benefits have ended and there is a warrant for your arrest. This is a scam; do not give any personal information.

On September 10th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Will Morin (28) of Worth alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony) and Resisting Arrest. Bond was set at $2,000, cash or surety.

On September 10th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Brittany Evans (30) of Grant City alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony). Bond was set at $2,000, cash or surety.

On September 13th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Gaddy Guy (19) of St. Joseph in Nodaway County on a Savannah Warrant for Failure to Appear (Expired Plates).

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.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection October 3rd

The Nodaway County Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Site will be open Saturday, October 3, 2020, from 8:00 A.M. to noon. The HHW Collection Site is located at the Nodaway County Maintenance Barn, 1516 East Halsey Street, Maryville, Missouri.  This will be the last HHW Collection at this site until Spring (April 3, 2021).

Brochures are available at the Nodaway County Administration Building and the Regional Council office; or, online at www.nwmorcog.org. Residents of Atchison, Gentry, Holt, Nodaway and Worth Counties are welcome to participate (ID required).  There is no fee to drop-off; it is FREE for residents only. No commercial or business waste accepted. 

Examples of HHW include: household chemicals (bleach, ammonia, and cleaners) fertilizers, pesticides, brake fluid, transmission fluid, household waxes, Ni-cad, lithium, and lead acid batteries, compact fluorescent light bulbs, florescent tubes, antifreeze, oil base paint, and varnish. Do not mix household hazardous wastes together; keep in the original container.  No latex paint accepted.  Latex paint can be dried out and put into the trash. 

Brody Langfitt’s 28 Catches Sets State Record

Brody Langfitt’s 28 catches for Pattonsburg on Friday, September 11th set a state record for receptions in a game in Pattonsburg’s 74-38 loss to North Andrew. He eclipsed Kyle Cotter’s (Windsor) record of 23 catches in a game set back in 2009.

Three other receivers from schools the Express covers are on the record book. Daytona Lutz and Jakob Cordell (North/West Nodaway) both had 21 catches in a game on August 28th, 2015 against Rock Port. And Patrick Cowley had 20 catches in a game for Pattonsburg last year.

Peyton Jones, brother of current Panther player Cameron Jones, is second on the single game list in receiving yards with 366 yards in 2017. 

Peyton Jones holds the current state record for receiving touchdowns in a game with 8, set back in 2017. Patrick Cowley is tied with two others for second with six. And Cameron Jones twice caught five touchdown passes in a game in 2018. Brody Langfitt caught five touchdown passes in a game against North Andrew, which puts him on the list.

Brody Langfitt Has 28 Catches, but Panthers Fall to Cardinals

Brody Langfitt had 28 catches for 286 yards, but the Pattonsburg Panthers fell 74-38 to North Andrew Friday as the Cardinals once again established themselves as one of the teams to beat in eight man football this year. They return most of their horses back from the squad that challenged Mound City last year and gave them a run for their money in the playoffs.

With nearly everything else collapsing around them, Langfitt and quarterback Zane Reed did all they could to keep the Panthers in the game. Reed completed 41 passes in 66 attempts for 425 yards and added 63 more yards on the ground. Cameron Jones had 6 catches for 80 yards, while Kaden Locker had 4 catches for 41 yards.

North Andrew countered with a punishing ground game, with Hayden Ecker getting 23 carries for 228 yards, and Carson Thomas getting 18 carries for 117 yards. One big difference was their pass rush, with North Andrew getting eight sacks that evening.

Cameron Jones did all he could on the other side of the ball, getting 16 tackles and recovering two fumbles. Brody Langfitt and Sam Coin had 7 tackles each, Kade DeJong had 5, Tyson Gibson 4, Gage Iddings and Collin Briggs 3, Brandon Hamilton 2, and Kaden Locker and James Norton 1 each.

Body of Melissa Chapman Found

The body of Melissa Chapman has been found, according to a news release from Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison released Tuesday. The release stated that a break in the case came when a tip was received by the Worth County Sheriff’s Office on Monday at around 5:00 pm. 

Multiple police departments were involved in the investigation, including the Worth County Sheriff’s Department, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department, the Gentry County Sheriff’s Department, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol Division of Drug and Crime Control.

Larison’s release says the investigation is ongoing and no further details will be released.

Chapman had been slated to testify in a criminal case against Jeremiah Searles in Harrison County. On August 23rd, she went missing; she was last seen in Mount Ayr; her car and her cell phone were recovered, but not her. Subsequently, Searles had his bond revoked and was rearrested. He had been out on a $10,000 bond, in which Judge Thomas Alley allowed him to post 10% cash, or $1,000.

The case drew regional attention following a vigil in which people from the community gathered on the Grant City Square. A second vigil, held last Wednesday, brought KQ2 of St. Joseph and KCCI of Des Moines. The case drew national attention when Inside Edition did a segment on the case Monday.