Hailey Adwell’s Putback Sparks Tiger Rally for Third Win

Worth County’s girls finally got their third win under their belt as Hailey Adwell’s putback and three point play late in the third period sparked a rally after the Tigers were on the ropes against Green City in Trenton Wednesday. Worth County closed out the game on a 16-2 run spanning all of the fourth quarter and part of the third to get the 36-27 win over the Gophers.

Previously, Worth County had been turning into heartbreak hill as they twice made a game of it against strong teams in St. Joseph Christian and Mount Ayr, only to be unable to complete the comeback. But somehow, despite turning the ball over 25 times against the Gophers and their full court man to man pressure, they managed to pull it off.

Green City, under longtime North Harrison principal and coaching institution Mike Schmidli, had made some strides this year and was fighting to get to the .500 mark. But it was Worth County who started off strong as Hailey Adwell hit Paige Sherer on the left side, Kynah Steele scored off a drive, and Liz Brown hit one from the high post off a pass from Kynah Steele to make it 6-0 in the first.

Jaryn Hatcher did all she could to keep the Gophers in the game, scoring all seven of their points in the period. Green City got as close as two, but then Taylor Sanders hit a 3-pointer from the top of the key to make it 12-7 after one.

Kynah Steele carried the Tigers early in the second as she hit two free throws after Liz Brown inbounded her the ball and then went coast to coast after Brylee Rush got a defensive board and got her a quick outlet to make it 16-8.

But then the foul trouble and turnovers took their toll as Kynah Steele went to the bench with four fouls and Ali Brown with three. The Gophers fought back to take an 18-17 lead after two.

Kynah Steele started the third despite four fouls and found Ali Brown for a basket to beat the Gopher press to make it 19-18 and Liz Brown added a free throw after an offensive board, but then Hatcher hit two free throws and Ali Brown came out with her fourth foul. Hatcher and the Gophers threatened to take control and Claire Gordon’s baseline shot put Green City back in front 25-20 halfway through the third.

Brylee Rush made a free throw with 2:35 left in the third to break the run, but things still looked grim for the Tigers as Hailey Adwell threatened to follow Ali Brown and Kynah Steele to the bench after picking up her third foul. But with 32 seconds left, Hailey Adwell came out of nowhere to grab an offensive board and draw Hatcher’s third foul and converted the free throw to make the Tiger deficit 25-24 after three.

Green City saw two shots go in and out to start the fourth, and then, in a highlight film play good enough to go on the Kirksville TV station, Taylor Sanders hit Paige Sherer backdoor to put the Tigers in front 26-25. Rylee Ruckman grabbed a defensive carom on the next trip down and aired it out to Paige Sherer, who scored again to make it 28-25.

The Gophers had chances to cut into their deficit down the stretch, but twice missed the front end of a 1-1. When Mark Fletcher was coaching the Worth County girls back in the 1990’s, one of his biggest negative stats was if you missed the front end of a 1-1, and this game was a good reason why. 

Normally a post player, Ali Brown beat her defender off the dribble with 3:28 left off a pass from Rylee Ruckman and drew the foul, hitting both free throws to make it 30-25. Kynah Steele drove and found Brown down low with 2:25 left to make it 32-25. Paige Blake broke the Tiger run with 1:55 left, but Kynah Steele went backdoor to Brown again with 1:24 left and Steele added two free throws with 8 seconds left to seal it.

Ali Brown had 9 points for the Tigers, 6 in the fourth quarter. Paige Sherer and Kynah Steele had 8, Liz Brown, Taylor Sanders, and Hailey Adwell 3 each, and Brylee Rush 2. Hailey’s three point play was the only points she scored all game, but they were pivotal.

Liz Brown had 10 boards for the Tigers. Brylee Rush had 6, Paige Sherer 5, Kynah Steele 4, Ali Brown and Hailey Adwell 3, Rylee Ruckman 2, and Taylor Sanders 1. Worth County managed to keep a taller Gopher squad off the boards all morning.

Obituary -- Brit Fisher 1994-2022

 Brit Lauren FIsher, age 28, Sheridan, Missouri, died Thursday, December 29, 2022 near Sheridan, Missouri.  She was a lifetime resident of the area and was fondly known as the Gaynor Girl.

Brit was born January 1, 1994 in Kansas City, Missouri.  She was the daughter of Kelly and Lora (Turner) Fisher.  

Brit was a 2013 graduate of North Nodaway High School in Hopkins, Missouri.  She attended 2 years of college at Southwest Iowa Community College in Creston,  

She was employed as a Postal Clerk for the United States Post Office, currently serving in Hopkins.  She loved her job and interacting with the people.  Her goal was to be a Career Employee with USPS.

The best way to describe Brit is a fun, spunky, ray of sunshine mixed with some hell water!  She was always on the go and didn’t know a stranger.  She attended several concerts with friends and family, from Reba McEntire to George Strait and even Loretta Lynn.  She enjoyed helping with VBS at the Hopkins Christian Church and volunteering at the Methodist Church stand at the Hopkins Picnic.  You could find her at Old Defiance Days in July helping with the Rodeo, the Queen contest and Little Mr and Miss.  She loved taking money and greeting people at the gate at the Bedford Tractor Pull.  

After her mom passed away at the age of six, Brit’s extended family became a huge part of her life.  Grandma Patty and Grandpa Jack’s house became her home away from home.  Aunt Gail and Uncle Phil opened their home and their hearts, so Cole, Will and Brit would experience a mother’s love.  They got to spend summers at the lake with Aunt Cindy and Lindsay.  

Outside of her family, she had some special people in her life.  Johnny and Brenda Thurman weren’t just neighbors in Sheridan, Brit spent many evenings with them talking and eating and laughing.  Brit was blessed by the relationships she had with Lori Hughes, Judy Frueh and Pam Wilmarth.  These ladies treated her as their own and Brit loved them with all her heart.  

She was preceded in death by her mom Lora (11/17/2000), maternal grandfather Rube Turner and uncles Leon Lawhorn and Phil Henggeler.

Her survivors include dad, Kelly (Belinda) Fisher, brothers Cole (Stacy) Fisher and Will Fisher, stepsisters Madison (Tyler) Hamby and Mollie VonBehren, paternal grandparents Jack and Patty Fisher, maternal grandmother Ruby Turner, aunts Cindy Lawhorn and Gail Henggeler and uncles Steve (Roberta) Turner, John (Pam) Turner and James Turner, cousins Lindsay (Carlos) Santiago, Tyler (Ashley) Turner, Brett (Sara) Henggeler, Bart Oberhauser, Hallie (Ryan) Ginther, Tucker, Tanner and Sofia Turner, nieces and nephews Brayden and Kennedy Murphy, Cooper, Kamryn and Karsyn Fisher and Rhett Hamby.

Funeral services will be held at 10 am, Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at the Laura Street Baptist Church, Maryville, Missouri.  The family will receive friends from 5-7 pm, Monday, January 2, at the Church in Maryville.  Burial will be in the Hopkins Cemetery, Hopkins, Missouri.

Memorial:  Sheridan Community Betterment Club.

Arrangements:  Andrews-Hann Funeral Home, Grant City, Missouri.

andrewshannfuneralhome.com

Kristin Herndon Bright Spot in Prairie Fire Loss

Kristin Herndon was a bright spot in Knox College’s 72-42 loss to the University of Chicago Friday. She had 14 points and 8 boards, hanging with one of the best teams in the country. 

Only ranked 14th in the country despite being unbeaten, the Maroons were seemingly playing with a chip on their shoulder. Knox was outscored 22-6 in the first and 26-10 to trail 48-16 at the half. The Prairie Fire turned around and played one of their best quarters of the year in the third, outscoring the Maroons 13-6 in the third quarter. 

Ice cold shooting led to Knox’s downfall as they shot 19 for 63 from the field, including 1 for 17 from downtown. The turnovers were even. Normally a good rebounding team and frequently getting 50 a night, Knox was outrebounded 44-32. The Maroons also outscored Knox 37-13 from the bench.

Brookfield, Marceline to Join GRC

Brookfield and Marceline will join the GRC East starting with the 2024 football season, the conference announced on its website Thursday.

Marceline will be leaving the Lewis & Clark Conference. They cited stability as the reason for the move. Paris, another team in the conference, will be moving to eight man for the 2023 season and there has been talk about other schools making the switch. Marceline was a powerhouse football team in the 1980’s.

Brookfield will be leaving the Clarence Cannon Conference. They are one of the smaller schools in the conference, and travel will be less than in the CCC. Their enrollment is more in line with the GRC East.

This represents the second move for the conference this school year. Princeton will be moving to eight man football and will compete in the GRC West and play Worth County and Pattonsburg for the 2023 season.

Obituary -- Benny Aragon 1943-2022

Benny Juan Aragon, was born on June 29, 1943 passed away peacefully in his home in Grant City, MO on December 28, 2022. He is preceased in death by his son, Jamie Aragon. Survived by ex-wife Frances Largent, son Orlando B. Aragon, daughter Melinda A. Froisland (Daniel Froisland), son Duwayne J. Aragon, 4 grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren. 

Our loving father started his career in coal mining and long haul truck driving. He enjoyed traveling across the country and enjoying the outdoors. He fished and hunted as much as he could. He will be greatly missed by his family and dear friends. 

Benny was cremated and no service are scheduled at this time.

Courthouse News for December 28th, 2022

On December 19th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department reported that a 2005 Hyundai driven by Avery Riggs of Redding was eastbound on Route 2 at around 6:15 pm when he lost control, overcorrected, and crossed the center line. The vehicle went airborne for 30 feet through a fence and came to rest in a creek. Damages were estimated to be around $9,000. Riggs and two passengers, Kathryn Gore and Vickie Parrott, were taken to Ringgold County Hospital with minor injuries.

On December 20th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Brian Testerman (46) of Platte City alleging Driving While Revoked (Felony).

On December 21st, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Wayne Lawson (44) of Skidmore alleging Child Abuse (Felony). 

On December 21st, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2002 Chevy Impala driven by a 16 year old teen was westbound on Route T ½ mile west of McFall at around 4:05 pm when he failed to negotiate a curve in the roadway, traveled off the north side, struck a culvert, and overturned multiple times before coming to rest on its top. The teen received moderate injuries and was taken to Mosaic in Albany.

On December 22nd, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Steve Lowman (71) of Mount Ayr on charges of Stalking and Harassment. Bond was set at $4,000, cash or corporate surety.

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.

 

Sheridan Woman Struck by Car, Killed

A Sheridan woman was struck by a car and killed Thursday afternoon at around 2:46 pm. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 1991 Ford Crown Victoria driven by Billie Fern Wake (99) of Grant City was westbound on 246 and Brit Fisher was walking with traffic in the westbound lane of 246. The Crown Victoria struck Fisher, who was pronounced dead by Nodaway County Coroner Dr. Vincent Shelby at 3:48 pm.  Her body was taken to Andrews-Hann Funeral Home. Wake was not injured. Fisher was the second person killed in an accident in Worth County in the last 10 days.

Jayliegh Robins Goes Beast Mode as Shamrock Girls Win Second Game

North Harrison’s girls have had trouble even getting a team on the court following their 38-36 win over Winston for the first game of the year. They had to cancel their game with Lamoni, and then played a forgettable 57-13 loss to Stanberry. But with just five players dressed out Tuesday for the game with Southwest Livingston, and pitted against a team that was 3-3 for the year, Jayliegh Robins went beast mode, getting 22 points, 15 boards, and 6 steals as the Shamrocks had a surprisingly easy time of it with the Wildcats, getting the 42-14 win at the Holiday Hoops classic in Trenton.

Trendi Johnson knocked down a shot from the wing to give North Harrison an early 3-0 lead, but Southwest came out in a press, which made sense since North Harrison had struggled against teams that had pressed them. But this time, the Shamrocks passed right through the press, getting the ball reversed and into their offense. Jayliegh Robins scored off a drive, Halle Morgan scored in the low post after Jayliegh got the ball in the high post, and then Jayliegh carried the team on her shoulders for the rest of the period, posting up at will, knocking down a 3-pointer, and adding a free throw. By the time the dust had settled, North Harrison was up 15-0 after one quarter.

Jaci Davis and Trendi Johnson knocked down 3-pointers at the start of the second and Jayliegh scored four more, giving her team a 25-0 lead at the 5:32 mark of the second quarter. North Harrison was never seriously threatened after that, and the Wildcats never got it under 20. North Harrison only had 3 turnovers in the first half despite facing full court pressure much of the half.

Fatigue set in for the next two and a half quarters as North Harrison couldn’t rest any of their players given that they had only five. But at the end of the game, Jayliegh found her second wind, getting six more to close out strongly.

Jayliegh Robins had 22 points for the game. Trendi Johnson had 9, Jaci Davis 7, and Halle Morgan 4.

Jayliegh Robins had 15 boards. Halle Morgan had 5, Jaci Davis 4, and Kira Robertson 2.

Jaci Davis and Halle Morgan had 4 assists. Kira Robertson had 3, and Jayliegh Robins and Trendi Johnson 2.

Jayliegh Robins had 7 tips. Halle Morgan had 6, Kira Robertson 2, and Jaci Davis and Trendi Johnson 1.

Jayliegh Robins had 6 steals. Kira Robertson and Trendi Johnson had 4, Halle Morgan 3, and Jaci Davis 1.

Tiger Boys Fall Hard Against Raiders

Worth County’s boys have been in most of their games this year, but on Monday, December 19th, they fell hard to Mount Ayr 70-41. The Raiders, with a lot of length and athleticism along with Jaxen Frost, were one of the best teams they had seen all year along with Platte Valley.

Worth County shot 16 for 40 from the field for 40%, but could not buy a board all night and turned the ball over 28 times. They only had 8 defensive boards for the game. They were behind by as much as 56-16 before they finally found their footing, but by then, it was too late.

Tyler New had 21 points. Levi Cassavaugh had 10, Tanner Ridge 6, and Karson Briner 4.

Karson Briner had 6 boards. Tyler New had 4, Landon Moser 2, and Wyatt Hill, John Galanakis, Levi Cassavaugh, and Cannon Fletcher each had 1.

Tyler New and Levi Cassavaugh had 4 assists. Franklynn Hoff had 2, and John Galanakis and Tanner Ridge had 1 each.

Levi Cassavaugh and Tyler New had 2 steals. Tanner Ridge, Landon Moser, Karson Briner, and Franklynn Hoff had 1 each.

Franklynn Hoff had 2 tips. Wyatt Hill, John Galanakis, Landon Moser, and Levi Cassavaugh had 1 each.

Cars in Worth County in 1913

As late as 1908, cars were still regarded as a novelty in Worth County, but just five years later, by 1913, they were beginning to get more common.

The November 20th, 1913 issue of the Worth County Times had the following entry about the Methodist Church. The Christian, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Baptist churches in Grant City published their notes regularly in the papers. One week, the Methodist church decided to canvass all of its members.

The every member canvass begets enthusiasm. Five automobiles made it possible to make 41 visits to the homes in the country. Bright, cheerful, Christian homes. How glad the canvassers were to go; how glad were the homes to have them come. The homes in town gave cordial welcomes as well.

***

This created the need for bigger and stronger bridges in the county. In the same paper, the county advertised the following bid notice:

The contract for erecting two riveted steel truss bridges – one 60 feet long and one 50 feet long – on eight cedar piling, will be let on sealed bids to the lowest responsible bidder in the county courtroom Monday, December 1st, 1913 at around 1:00 pm. The right to reject any or all bids is reserved.

–John Bunker, County Highway Engineer.

***

That paper was filled with numerous items of people coming and going hundreds and thousands of miles away to visit friends and relatives. Visitors came from places like Morrell County (NE), Mound City, St. Joseph, Columbia (MO), Albany, and McFall. One person went to California to be with their daughter for the winter; other people traveled to St. Joseph, Omaha, King City, Albany, Gallatin, and Kansas City. 

***

However, not everyone was enamored of the new contraption. The same paper contains the following entry:

Sunday, Ed Gates and wife of Sheridan and O.P. Garver and wife of Parnell came over to Grant City in the former’s car to spend the day with relatives. About one mile west of town, the party was treated to a “blowout,” notwithstanding it was the holy sabbath day. It was not a social blowout, but an automobile tire blowout. They didn’t seem to appreciate it in the least bit.

It Used to be Illegal to Spit on Sidewalks in Grant City

David Witmer, who was the City Marshal of Grant City at the time, published the following notice in the November 20th, 1913 edition of the Worth County Times:

The city ordinance forbids emptying ashes, paper, and other debris on the streets. Also forbids spitting on the sidewalks. These ordinances are being violated. I hereby give notice that hereafter, any person caught violating these ordinances will be arrested.

–David Witmer, City Marshal

Kristin Herndon Thrives in New Role at Knox College

North Nodaway basketball standout Kristin Herndon has been steadily moving up the ranks for Knox College since joining the program four years ago. In the 2020-2021 season, COVID shut down nearly the entire season, and the team only played three games. In 2021, the program got a new coach in Kyra Mowen. 

Last year, the team got off to a 2-9 start. Historically, Herndon has been a guard who has hit 3-pointers and stolen the ball. She has had as many as 17 tips and 10 steals during her time at North Nodaway. But the new coach moved her into the post when she took over. Frequently, players struggle or have a learning curve ahead of them when they are moved to a new position, but Kristin has thrived in her new position, breaking into the starting lineup and getting as many as 16 points and 16 boards in a game. 

This year, Herndon has become the leading scorer and rebounder for the Prairie Fire. She has become a model of scoring consistency this year, averaging 14.2 a game and scoring in double figures in all but two of her games. She is also averaging 8.7 boards a game through 10 games. She is also the leading shot blocker on the team. Already a shot blocker as a sophomore at North Nodaway, Kristin hit a big growth spurt her junior year and became a force. She grew even more after leaving North Nodaway and is now 6 feet, and might as well be even taller with her long arms. She has 3.7 blocks per game through 10 games and has blocked as many as 9 in a game this year.

Prairie Fire 76, Dominican (IL) 45

The Prairie Fire pulled away, outscoring Dominican in every quarter to get the win. Herndon had 17 points, 6 boards, and 4 blocks in 22 minutes as 14 different people got to play. Teammate Sarina Dacio led the scoring with 22 points and four 3-pointers and had 4 steals. Brianna Arizmendi had 9 boards in 14 minutes. Twelve different players made the scoring column.

Prairie Fire 87, Blackburn 42

Fueled by a ridiculously lopsided turnover margin and a big second quarter, the Prairie Fire put the game away by half and led 47-14. Knox forced 25 turnovers on defense while surrendering the ball only 6 times themselves. They outscored Blackburn 24-4 in the pivotal second quarter. Herndon once again led the way, getting 19 points, 8 boards, and 5 blocks along with 3 steals. Catessa Duran and Mae Callahan had 10 each. Thirteen different players scored in the win.

Coe 60, Prairie Fire 58

After two ridiculously easy wins, the Prairie Fire came back down to earth as a bad second quarter, in which they shot 2 for 13, proved to be the difference against an unbeaten team. Down by 9 points going into the fourth quarter, they used the free throw line to get back in the game, rallying before falling two points short. They were unable to generate the kind of defensive pressure that fueled their first two games as Coe only surrendered the ball 9 times.

Herndon had 16 points and 13 points in the game, getting a double double and doing all she could to get her team back in the game. She has greatly improved her free throw shooting this year; she was 6 for 7 from the line against Coe. Sarina Dacio had 17 points and Catessa Duran 12. Kylee Callahan had 5 assists.

Prairie Fire 89, Central (IA) 73

The ability to bounce back from losses is what separates good teams from the rest, and Knox bounced back to beat Central (IA) in a wild game. The Prairie Fire have gotten wins following all three of their losses so far this year. Last year, they struggled after a loss.

Knox took a 28-18 lead after one quarter, but then Central (IA) hung 32 points on their to take a 50-49 halftime lead. But Knox got back to what got them their first two wins, locking down defensively, forcing 23 turnovers for the game, and getting the 89-73 win. They also won the battle of the boards, outrebounding Central (IA) 53-34.

Herndon had 18 points, 11 boards, and 4 blocks in the win. Catessa Duran had 14 points, 16 boards, and 3 steals. Sarina Dacio had 19 points and 5 threes. Kylee Callahan had 7 assists and 3 steals. Sophie Elstone had 10 points and 4 assists. Once again, Herndon showed the ability to draw fouls from enemy defenses; she was 8 for 11 from the line after going to the line 7 times the game before.

Prairie Fire 75, Grinnell 66

For the third time in a row, the Prairie Fire had a bad second quarter; for the second time in a row, they recovered to get the win. This time, they built a solid 14-9 lead after one only for Grinnell to rally to lead 28-27 at the half. Once again, the Prairie Fire had to win the game all over again, and once again, they delivered, going to the line 14 times in the second half after only going to the line 3 times in the first.

Herndon had 14 points and 10 boards in the win, getting another double double. Sarina Dacio had 19 points and 5 assists. Sophie Elstone had 16 points and 5 assists. Juliana Vinluan had 4 assists and 3 steals off the bench.

Principia 74, Prairie Fire 63

This time, Knox had a bad third quarter, getting outscored 22-11 in the period and shooting 3 for 13, and this time, they did not survive against a solid team. Herndon had 6 points and 4 boards in the game. Catessa Duran had 11 points and 11 boards while Sarina Dacio had 11 points and 3 steals. 

Prairie Fire 65, Lawrence 58

Once again, Knox had a bad quarter, digging themselves into a 19-7 hole after one quarter. But this time, they climbed out of it behind red hot shooting and outscored Lawrence in the second quarter 28-14 to take a 35-33 lead. They overcame 4 for 14 shooting in the third quarter and 3 for 12 shooting in the fourth to come away with the win. They dug themselves out of their hole on the line, taking 29 trips to the line in the last three quarters after taking only two trips in the first.

Kristin Herndon had a double double, getting 14 points and a season high 14 boards for the game, to go with 5 blocks. Kylee Callahan had 10 points and 6 assists. Strong bench play was key in the win, with Nyah Daniels getting 12 and Loraya Rocha getting 9 off the bench in the win. 

Prairie Fire 67, Ripon 54

Ripon came out red hot, taking a 21-14 lead after one, but Knox had cut it to one by the half and used a 20-9 third quarter to take control. After struggling from the field at times, Knox had a good day from the field, shooting 27 for 50, or over 50%. Kristin Herndon nearly had a triple double, getting 14 points, 9 blocks, and 9 boards. Catessa Duran had 17 points, 5 assists, and 3 steals while Sarina Dacio had 16 points. 

Westminster (MO) 84, Prairie Fire 82

Knox started off well, taking a 23-16 lead after one, but then Westminster came out on fire in the second, outscoring them 23-11 to take a 34-29 halftime lead. They were fueled by the two headed monster of Annette Rameriez (28 points) and Shelby Kurtz (21 points), who went to the line a combined 25 times. But Knox chipped away, outrebounding them 50-34 for the game, and getting a big night off the bench from Loraya Rocha, who had 21 points and 13 boards. They led by as much as 9 in the fourth quarter, but couldn’t hold it and Westminister forced overtime. 

Kristin Herndon, who battled foul trouble, had 8 points, 7 boards, and 3 blocks. Catessa Duran had 14 points and 7 assists along with 9 boards. Kylee Callahan had 12 points, Sophie Elstone 11, and Sarina Dacio 10. 

Prairie Fire 74, Eureka 66

Knox once again started off well, breaking out to a 40-21 lead at one point in the second quarter. But then Eureka started hanging around and chipping away. The lead steadily shrunk all game until finally, Eureka took a 60-58 lead at one point in the fourth quarter. But Knox, forced to win it all over again, did so and closed it out for the bounceback win.

Herndon had 16 points and 3 blocks to lead a balanced effort; five purple shirts had double figures. Kylee Callahan had 13, Catessa Duran had 12 points and 3 steals, Sophie Elstone 11 points and 4 steals, and Sarina Dacio 11 points and 5 steals. 

The Great Worth County Newspaper Feud of 1913

The Worth County Times of November 6th, 1913 published a nasty attack editorial against the Worth Tribune rebutting allegations that the county was somehow misusing public funds and misleading the public about assessed valuations to drive up taxes.

Some things have not changed in over 100 years of politics. Certain Democrats think that Democratic politicians are all good and that Republicans are all bad and that your decision to vote Republican somehow reflects on your character. For certain Republicans, Republican politicians are all good and Democratic politicians all bad, and that your decision to vote Democratic somehow reflects on your character.

In November 1913, all of the Worth County officeholders except for the Surveyor were Democrats. Naturally, the folks at the Worth County Times, a staunch Democratic paper, thought things were being done by the book and everything was fine. The Worth Tribune, a Republican paper, naturally believed that the folks at the Courthouse were wasting everybody’s time and taxpayer dollars and that the actual figures were somehow different than what was being presented by the county.

In a piece entitled, “Juggling Figures – Making Them Lie” that made the front page of the Worth County Times, the editor of the Times wrote, in part:

It is said that “figures won’t lie.” If left within their legitimate sphere, they won’t lie. But when manipulated by scheming, designing, and dishonest men, they may be distorted until they represent the most colossal lies. To the point, in last week’s Worth Tribune, appeared another thrilling chapter of the serial story running in that paper for the past five months entitled, “The County Court.” The story has been used until it is badly frayed on the edges and is generally worn threadbare. For the benefit of the deceived public, we will once more lay bare the deception that is being practiced on them.

The piece goes on to compare and contrast the Tribune’s figures with the county records. 

On another interesting comparison today, while inflation has been a headache these past two years, it has been a constant throughout the last 140+ years. The article gives a comparison of the cost of doing business between 1882 and 1912 for the county. For instance, the care of the insane went from $362 to $2,742 from 1882 to 1912. Support for the poor went from $373 to $1,798. Roads went from $1.121 to $6,583. Today, in 2022, the cost is many times that figure. The cost for bridges went from $891 to $4,872. The cost for juries went from $653 to $1,317. The cost for schools went from $13,639 to $35,456. By way of comparison, a preliminary budget for the school for the current school year presented in April showed projected expenditures of $4,120,471.

Naturally, the folks at the Worth Tribune had a totally different story to tell, and as reported in the November 2022 Worth County Chronicle, the proprietor of the Worth Tribune moved to Grant City to compete directly with the Times and the Star. By 1922, the Worth County Tribune would acquire the Star, and by 1929, the Times and the Tribune would merge.

Light at the End of the Tunnel for Worth County Girls?

During their recent one and a half year drought, Worth County’s girls have had false hope before. But last Monday’s 47-46 loss to perennial powerhouse Mount Ayr showed that their turnaround against St. Joseph Christian the game before was no accident, but a matter of improvement from their part.

The Mount Ayr game took the same course of events. A Rylee Ruckman three point play fueled by a Kynah Steele steal cut an early Tiger deficit to 11-8, but it looked like just another blowout after Mount Ayr jumped out to a 17-8 lead at one point. The Tigers hung around for most of the first half, keeping the deficit under double digits. But then, it appeared that the bottom had dropped out when the Raiderettes took a 36-24 halftime lead and raised it to 39-24 early in the third.

But all of a sudden, Worth County started hanging around. It wasn’t any one player who went off for the Tigers. It wasn’t one particular play that got the momentum turned around; it was simply hard work on both ends of the floor. Worth County ran a perfectly executed high low play from Ali Brown to Kynah Steele, Hailey Adwell, who returned from an injury sustained against Christian and who played the whole game, knocked down a 3-pointer to make it 39-29. The black shirts rebuilt their lead to 12, only for Paige Sherer to knock down a 3-pointer late in the third to make it 42-34 again.

From there, it was defense and rebounding on one end and solid possessions and staying away from giving up cheap buckets on the offensive end. Taylor Sanders knocked down a shot on the right wing off a kickout from Brylee Rush, Rylee Ruckman, playing her best game at the varsity level, went coast to coast set up by an Ali Brown block, and it was a 42-39 game with 4:44 left.

Mount Ayr went to the early stall in an effort to break the Tiger momentum, only for Kynah Steele to get a steal and make it 42-41. The Raiderettes got the ball into their big post player, who had all their fourth quarter points and made it 44-41, and they got a stop on defense. But then Paige Sherer blocked a shot on defense and that set up a coast to coast take by Rylee Ruckman and a three point play to make it 44-44 with 2:15 left.

Once again, Mount Ayr tried to run down the clock, taking 45 seconds off the clock, but lost it out of bounds with 1:30 left. On the ensuing Tiger possession, Mount Ayr knocked it into the backcourt, only for Worth County to recover it and continue the possession. Finally, Kynah Steele hit Liz Brown backdoor and Brown, who had hit a game winner for the Tigers last year against Rock Port, converted to give the Tigers the 46-44 lead with 1:10 left.

But then Mount Ayr hit two free throws to tie, Worth County threw it away, and Mount Ayr hit a free throw with 32 seconds left to regain the lead. The second free throw was missed, but the Raiderettes got the offensive board and ran it down to 18.7 before the Tigers could foul. They missed a 1-1, but a tieup went to Mount Ayr, who ran it down to 11.7 seconds before Kynah Steele finally knocked a ball off the red shirts.

Worth County took it down the court, but Mount Ayr knocked the ball loose twice and Worth County couldn’t get a shot off in the closing seconds.

For Worth County, Kynah Steele had 9. Ali Brown and Rylee Ruckman had 8, Taylor Sanders 6, Brylee Rush 5, Liz Brown 4, and Paige Sherer and Hailey Adwell 3 each. Worth County was 44% from the field.

Ali Brown had 7 boards. Rylee Ruckman and Kynah Steele had 4, Brylee Rush 3, Liz Brown 2, and Taylor Sanders, Paige Sherer, and Hailey Adwell 1 each.

Ali Brown had 4 assists. Kynah Steele had 3, Liz Brown 2, and Taylor Sanders, Brylee Rush, Paige Sherer, and Rylee Ruckman 1 each.

Kynah Steele had 7 steals. Ali Brown had 4, and Brylee Rush and Rylee Ruckman 1 each.

Ali Brown had 5 blocks and Paige Sherer 1.

Kynah Steele had 4 tips. Hailey Adwell had 3, Ali Brown 2, and Brylee Rush, Paige Sherer, and Liz Brown 1 each.

The Tigers nearly overcame 25 turnovers to give themselves a chance to win the game. If they can cut down their turnovers to 15, they are capable of beating anybody.

Obituary -- Adam Brown 1981-2022

Adam Lee Brown was born on July 6, 1981, at St. Francis Hospital in Maryville Missouri, to the proud parents Jim and Vickie Brown of Grant City Missouri. Adam spent all of his life growing up in Grant City with his sister Heather (Chapman) Hayden, Uncles Jerry and Michael Chapman on Lovers Lane. He spent most of his younger years running back and forth to all the neighbors' houses. Adam could always be found running through the doors of Len & Rita Green or Hal & Sharon Dowis or even just riding his bike through the other neighbors' yards. 

Adam went to school at Worth County R-3, where he spent these years learning how to socialize. After high school Adam worked for Jeff Lyle giving camel rides at the Kansas City Zoo. Adam formed a great bond with Donnie Pickering at this time as they spent many hours and miles on the road together hauling the camels. 

During this time, he met his wife Jessica; they were friends for quite some time before she finally gave into his persistent request of going on a date. They became fond of each other and decided to marry on July 12, 2002, at Crossroads Assembly of God Church by Pastor Len Green. From this marriage three beautiful children were born, two daughters, EmiLee Marie, Elizabeth Louise, and a son, Wesley Dale. 

Adam spent most of his life driving a semi. Adam got his first dabble of trucking experience working for Glen Hughes Jr. driving trucks on the wheat harvest. From there he went to hauling feed out of the Creston Coop. Adam had the opportunity to drive for 2 companies (The Cabbage Brothers out of New Market Iowa and then for Brett and Tara Miller out of Creston Iowa) in his 12 years of hauling feed. Adam made so many friends while working in Creston. 

During Adam’s spare time he enjoyed riding horses with his family, taking care of his cows, cutting wood, driving his wife Jessica to whatever town she thought she need to be at for a truck pull, socializing with anyone that would stop and listen, just trying to stay out of mischief while he was hanging out with Tyrel, Billie, Clint, The Verbick boys, the late Kenny Hansen and so many others that I can't even begin to mention. Adam formed a tight bond with his father (Boog) after he retired from the Railroad; in fact, where one was, the other was not far behind. Many times, ending with a What did you guys tear up now? coming out of his mother's Vickie's mouth.

Adam will be missed by all who knew him. He didn't know a stranger. 

Adam was preceded in death by: His Father James (Boog) Edward Brown, Uncle John Brown, Aunt Janie Brown, Grandfather Dale Brown, Grandparents Louis and Ella May Chapman, Uncles Lee and Larry Emmerich. 

Adam is survived by his Wife Jessica Louise (Cavin) Brown, Daughters EmiLee Marie and Elizabeth Louise Brown, Son Wesley Dale Brown, Mother Vickie Lynn Brown, Sister Heather Lynn (Chapman) Hayden (Paul), Nephew Liam Paul Hayden, Nieces Sheila Hayden (Brandon, Adalyn and Kolby), Megan Colwell (Mike, Bodhi and Dalton), Great Grandmother Verla Damman and Many Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews and Friends.

Adam’s body has been cremated under the care of the Andrews-Hann Funeral Home, Grant City, MO. 

Memorial services will be held at 2 PM, Tuesday, December 27, 2022, at the Grant City Christian Church, where the family will receive friends from 1-2 PM, prior to the service.  A private family inurnment will be held at a later date. 

A register book will be available to sign at the church starting at noon on Tuesday the 27th.

 andrewhannfuneralhome.com

Fatal Wreck on 46 West of Grant City

A fatal wreck occurred on Route 46 and Route Z west of Grant City Wednesday morning. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2007 GMC 2500 driven by Adam Brown (41) of Grant City was westbound on 46 at around 4:50 am when he failed to negotiate a curve, crossed the center line, traveled off the south side, struck two signs, and overturned down the embankment. Brown was ejected from the vehicle. 

Courthouse News for December 21st, 2022

On December 13th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Erika Mullen (25) of Clarinda alleging DWI (Prior), Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway (Accident), and No Seat Belt.

On December 13th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Austin Davis (29) of Maryville alleging Driving While Revoked and Careless & Imprudent Driving.

On December 13th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against David Morriss (36) of Guilford alleging Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident), DWI, Failure to Register, and No Seat Belt.

On December 13th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Eric Hernandez (33) of Skidmore alleging two counts each of Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway (Accident) and DWI.

On December 14th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Jacob Nastasio (31) of Maitland alleging Violation of Protection Order.

On December 14th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department received information that two subjects were in the area who had outstanding warrants from other counties. A deputy made contact with Cris Brehme (45) of Wadena (IA) on an outstanding warrant from Fayetteville County (IA). He was additionally charged with Sex Offender Violation (Multiple), Possession of Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond was set at $6,300 cash only in addition to the outstanding warrant. 

A search continued for the other subject. Deputies were able to locate Jennifer Schmidt (45) of Strawberry Point (IA) on the morning of the 15th hiding within the First Christian Church in Mount Ayr. She was arrested on an outstanding warrant from Clayton County (IA) and was additionally charged with Possession of Controlled Substance (3rd of Subsequent) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond was set at $5,300 cash only in addition to the outstanding warrant.

On December 15th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Bradley Muncy (44) of Maitland in Nodaway County on charges of DWI (Felony), Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident), Leaving the Scene (Hit and Run), No Seat Belt, and No Insurance.

On December 15th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2006 Dodge Ram driving by Tim Conn (43) of Maryville was southbound on Route 71 one mile north of Wilcox when he lost control on the ice covered roadway, traveled off the east side, struck an embankment, overturned, returned to the roadway, and came back to the roadway, coming to rest on its wheels. Three minor children in the vehicle received minor injuries. Conn was not injured.

On December 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Cheyanna Clark (24) and Colton Richardson (30) of Maryville alleging Child Abuse (Felony).

On December 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against David McGary (26) of Maryville alleging DWI and Speeding (26+ mph over). 

On December 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Anthony Keller (27) of Maryville alleging Failure to Comply with Halloween Restrictions for Sex Offenders.

On December 6th, Ringgold County received a 911 call stating there was an overturned Jeep on 180th Street about half a mile east of Wishard Chapel and that the driver had been trapped inside for a while. Emergency units rescued Ricky Hower (60) from a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee and he was lifeflighted to Des Moines. The Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department says he had been driving home the night before, swerved to avoid a deer, and overturned; he had been hanging upside down for hours.

On December 16th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Hannah Sturgeon (20) of Maryville alleging No Valid License, No Insurance, and Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident).

On December 17th, Ringgold County officers and a Taylor County deputy arrived to a house after a call of shots fired and a domestic disturbance. The Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Cody Carlson (31) of Mount Ayr on charges of Domestic Abuse (2nd offense), Reckless Use of a Firearm, Child Endangerment, and Possession of Contraband in Correctional Institution. He was being held on no bond until seen by a Magistrate.

On December 19th, Special Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Craig Conway (45) of Denmark (ME) in Worth County alleging Bribery of a Public Servant (Felony). 

On December 19th, St. Gregory’s Church in Maryville reported that multiple parish members got scam emails from someone impersonating the priest. 

On December 20th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Levi Hittle (18) of King City alleging Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway (Accident).

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.

Tyler New’s 35 Points Not Enough Against Lions

Worth County’s boys dug themselves into a hole against Christian and could not dig their way out of it against the high-scoring Lions squad, falling 82-68 in St. Joseph Friday night despite Tyler New’s 35 points. Tyler New kept the Tigers in most of the game, but 11 first quarter turnovers and key foul trouble hurt the Tigers at key moments of the game.

The Lions have made little secret of what they want to do – shoot as many 3-pointers as possible, put as much pressure on the ball as possible, trap everything, and push the ball up the floor regardless of the score or the caliber of opposition. They have always been an up-tempo team under Neal Hook, but this year, they kicked it into another gear. For Worth County, they fell into a familiar pattern – dig themselves into a big hole, nearly climb out of it, then wear themselves out and be unable to complete the comeback.

Cy Carlson took over the first quarter, scoring 13 of Christian’s 26 points in the period. He had plenty of help, with people like Nick Orscheln exploding to the rim along with Hayden Riley. The scary thing about it is that out of the 14 players listed in their roster, 12 of them are either freshmen or sophomores. They have plenty of upside potential as the season progresses.

By the time the first quarter had ended, there was plenty of reason to feel bleak as the Tigers were down 26-13. But somehow, they made a game of it in the second without a single point from Tyler New as Tanner Ridge chipped in a 3-pointer and a couple of drives, John Galanakis got a putback, Levi Cassavaugh scored off a drive, and Cannon Fletcher hit a 3-pointer and added a drive. Worth County got the deficit down to 39-29 late in the second quarter, but a costly foul on Levi Cassavaugh turned the momentum back in the Lions favor, as it was his third foul. Without one of their best ballhandlers and defenders on the floor, Worth County struggled as the Lions finished the half on a 9-0 run, including two NBA 3-pointers, to lead 48-29.

Worth County fought back again to start the third quarter as Tyler New scored 11 in the period and Levi Cassavaugh scored 5, Galanakis 4, and Tanner Ridge 2 as they got as close as 52-49 before Hayden Riley broke the run with a 3-pointer. 

Nick Orscheln had the hot hand as the Lions built up a 70-51 lead early in the fourth before Tyler New scored 15 in the period in a futile effort to bring the Tigers back.

Tiger Girls Lose Three Point Heartbreaker to Christian

Worth County’s girls dropped a close game to Christian 37-34 Friday as they dug themselves into a hole, climbed out of it, but couldn’t complete the comeback in St. Joseph. 

Previously, following a 39-21 loss to Northeast Nodaway, Worth County had a running clock loss to North Andrew. Frustrated coach Tiffany Bliley said in the Maryville Forum that they had beaten themselves that game. It looked to be the same thing on paper for the Christian game, as the Lions had raced out to a good start for the season, winning the Platte Valley Invitational and returning everyone from last year’s team that won the GRC West and successfully invaded Milan and challenged Platte Valley.

But the Lions were in a slump, having dropped games to LeBlond and King City and were playing Friday’s game without Lexi McDaniel, who was not dressed out for Friday’s game. McDaniel was the heart and soul of the Lion squad last year with a high basketball IQ along with having as many as 36 in a game despite being a freshman.

The Lions were not the same team without McDaniel, and it showed right off the bat as Worth County jumped on them as Hailey Adwell hit two free throws and scored off an inside shot and Paige Sherer jumped a pass as the Tigers raced out to a 6-0 lead.

But Christian got on their feet and the turnovers started mounting for Worth County, with the Tigers committing 8 for the first period. The Lions still had some horses on the floor, and Ella Bowman took over the next portion of the game, scoring at will during a 18-1 Lion run that put them up 18-7 early in the second. It didn’t help that Abbi Brown went down with an injury for Worth County and did not return.

Just as it looked like Christian would replicate North Andrew’s effort against Worth County the game before, the Tigers got an inside shot from Ali Brown and then Hailey Adwell tipped an errant Lion pass to herself and converted on the other end to stop the bleeding. Brown had 8 points in the second quarter and Worth County got the deficit down to 22-17 by half.

The Lion lead grew to 26-17 early in the third, but then Maddi Blevins, their most physical player, picked up her third and fourth fouls in quick succession and both Bowman and Jaci Jorgenson, Christian’s two best scoring threats Friday, were shaken up in the period as the battle turned physical. Worth County fought back as Hailey Adwell hit another shot and Kynah Steele scored seven straight. By the end of the third, Blevins had fouled out and Steele carried the Tigers on her back as they came back to tie 26-26 after three.

Hailey Adwell hit two free throws after a steal and then added a 3-pointer to put the Tigers in front 31-26 to start the fourth. But just as it looked like Adwell would take over and lead the Tigers to victory, she went down with an injury and the momentum swung back towards the Lions. Jaci Jorgenson took over for the Lions, who held the Tigers scoreless until less than a minute was left. By that time, the damage was done and the Lions were in control again and Jorgenson’s free throws in the closing seconds put them up 37-32 before Ali Brown hit a layup for the Tigers as time expired.

Obituary -- Axlyn Gladstone 2016-2022

Axlyn Elena Gladstone was a 6 year old, fiery beautiful redhead born on June 14, 2016. She was a tiny little girl with the strength of an ox. She never let anything hold her back in life… note even cancer could keep her down. 

She  took after her older sister ZeeAnna Gladstone, becoming a little mother hen. She was bossy and always told you how she felt. But at the same time she had absolutely one of the kindest hearts you could have ever met. 

Axlyn loved animals, all of them from horses down to her lizard. She enjoyed fishing and riding the four wheeler. 

Her favorite places were the zoo, aquarium, and sleeping between mom and dad, Rachael and James Gladstone. She always sat and ate like the pretty little princess she was. 

Axlyn loved her brothers and sisters, Lucky and James Gladstone and Thiel Dalton and ZeeAnna and Journey Gladstone. 

She enjoyed getting to spend nights at her aunt Weanies (Angelina Chittum) to play with her cousin Breya.  

Axlyn especially loved going to her to Grandma Maria Roderick’s because she was so spoiled there. 

We are so proud of Axlyn and so thankful she picked us to be her family. She will be missed but this is not goodbye, it is simply just “See you later” 

A service will be held at a later date for Axlyn.  Services and cremation are under direction of Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City, MO.

Obituary -- Leroy Morrison 1938-2022

Everett Leroy Morrison, 84, Maryville, MO passed away December 16, 2022, at Mosaic Medical Center, Maryville, MO.

Leroy was born in Hopkins, MO on September 17, 1938. His parents were Raymond Forrest and Ruth Maxine (Coleman) Morrison. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother Ronald Coleman.

Leroy lived his entire life in Hopkins and Maryville. He graduated from Hopkins High School in 1956. While in high school, he was an outstanding basketball player.

On August 30, 1957 he was united in marriage to Helen Lee Blanchard at the First Christian Church in Hopkins, MO. They celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary earlier this year. 

Leroy was an over the road truck driver, who owned and operated his own business for many years. He also drove for Darrell Snow Trucking and Keane Thummel Trucking.

He was a member of the Maryville Elks Lodge for over 60 years. He enjoyed playing pool and won many tournaments. He was also an avid card player. Leroy and Helen enjoyed camping and for many years he and Helen spent the winter months living in their camper in Casa Grande, AZ. He loved being a grandpa and watching his grandchildren play sports and participate in marching band competitions.

Leroy is survived by his wife Helen, three children: Toni Morrison of Winter Park, CO, Kirby (Angela) Morrison of Maryville, and Curtis (Kim) Morrison of Flower Mound, TX; four grandchildren: Jackson (McKenna) Morrison, Phoenix, AZ, Spencer Morrison, Omaha, NE, Mackensie (TJ) Self, Little Elm, TX, and Keegan Morrison, Dallas, TX; three brothers: Bill (Carol) Morrison, South Pasadena, FL, Jim (Linda) Morrison, Maryville, Kelly Morrison, Hopkins, and brother-in-law Raymond Blanchard, Carthage, TN as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He has been cremated under the care of the Bram Funeral Home, Maryville.

A memorial service will be conducted Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at 11:00 am at the Bram Funeral Home, Maryville. Visitation for family and friends will be from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM the day of the service. His remains will be buried in the Hopkins Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed in Leroy’s name to the Hopkins Cemetery Association.

NEN Boys Find Balance in Win Over Mustangs

The Northeast Nodaway boys had been searching for balanced scoring all year, trying to find someone besides Dylan McIntyre who could score. For one night at least, they got some in their 54-36 win over North Nodaway Tuesday, December 13th. Dylan McIntyre got his points, getting 22 for the night. But there were plenty of other people in the scoring column. Drew Dack, a freshman, added 14 while Boston Adwell had 7, Jack Boswell 5, Jake Redden 4, and Brycen Kennard 2.

For North Nodaway, it was a disappointing setback after an impressive win over East Harrison the week before. They were without Owen Martin for the Northeast Nodaway game (flu), and without him, the energy level of the team was noticeably lower. At one point, frustrated skipper Cody Jenkins asked his team, “Where was the team that was here last week?” Brice Trimble was a bright spot for the Mustangs; normally on the floor to give a quick lift from downtown, he stepped up his defense for the Northeast Nodaway game and picked up 8 steals. Damian Dailey added 5, most of them late as the Mustangs made a futile effort to make a charge late in the game.

It looked like the Mustangs would pick up where they left off the last game when Jeremiah Dobbins cut inside and finished off a pass from Brice Trimble and Mason Richardson added two free throws. But then Jack Boswell hit a free throw and then Dylan McIntyre started taking over the game, scoring six of the next eight Bluejay points to give them a 9-4 lead. Damian Dailey got loose in transition, but four straight from Drew Dack made it 13-6 and a drive by Boston Adwell and a coast to coast take by Dylan McIntyre raised the Bluejay lead to 19-10 after one.

The second quarter featured a lot of chaotic sequences and not a lot of scoring. Damian Dailey took a charge on defense for the Mustangs, but Drew Dack thrived in the quarter for Northeast, scoring six as they pulled away to a 28-14 halftime lead. 

Brice Trimble hit a 3-pointer for North Nodaway to start the third and the Mustangs twice cut it to 11, but Dylan McIntyre hit two free throws and Jack Boswell added a 3-pointer as Northeast reestablished its lead. Brice Trimble scored off a steal, but Dylan scored off a drive after getting a pass from Drew Dack, Dylan got a putback, Boston Adwell drove to the rack, drew a foul, and got a free throw, and he added another basket to make it 42-21 after three. 

North Nodaway tried to put together a late charge in the fourth as Damian Dailey had 9 in the period and Mason Richardson 6, but Dylan McIntyre scored eight in the quarter for Northeast as the Mustangs got no closer than 16.

For Northeast, Dylan McIntyre had 3 blocks. Drew Dack and Brycen Kennard had 1.

Dylan McIntyre had 9 boards. Boston Adwell and Jake Redden had 4, Drew Dack and Brycen Kennard 3 each, Trenton Hartley 2, and Jack Boswell 1.

Drew Dack had 5 assists. Trenton Hartley had 4, Jake Redden 3, Dylan McIntyre 2, and Boston Adwell 1.

Dylan McIntyre and Drew Dack had 8 tips each. Boston Adwell had 4, Jack Boswell 3, and Trenton Hartley and Jake Redden 1.

Dylan McIntyre had 6 steals. Boston Adwell and Drew Dack had 5, and Jack Boswell and Trenton Hartley had 1 each.

For North Nodaway, Damian Dailey had 15 points. Mason Richardson had 12, Brice Trimble 5, and Ethan Fry and Jeremiah Dobbins 2.

Damian Dailey had 9 boards. Mason Richardson had 8, Jeremiah Dobbins, Ethan Fry, Preston Hansen, and Blaine Clements 2 each, and Kaeden Nave, Brice Trimble, and Jeremiah Dobbins 1.

Ethan Fry had 3 assists. Brice Trimble had 2 and Damian Dailey and Jeremiah Dobbins 1 each.

Brice Trimble had 6 tips. Ethan Fry had 3, and Kaeden Nave, Mason Richardson, and Damian Dailey 1 each.

Brice Trimble had 8 steals. Damian Dailey had 5, Ethan Fry 2, and Kaeden Nave and Mason Richardson 1 each.

Obituary -- Robert Williams 1934-2022

Robert Lee Williams, 88, of Maryville, Missouri passed from this life to his eternal home Monday, December 12, 2022. His last days were spent at Maryville Living Center surrounded by family.

Robert was born on July 26, 1934 in Maryville, Missouri to David Henry and Mina (Miller) Williams. He attended school in Maryville and earned his GED while in the United States Air Force. In 2006 he was presented with an Honorary High School Diploma at North Nodaway R-VI.

In January 1952, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was deployed to Korea and served in the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant in July of 1960.

He owned his own upholstery business. Served as a Maryville Police Officer and Fire Fighter. Managed Ben Franklin and Easter’s Retail Store. Worked at Eveready Battery Company where he retired and was a member of Laura Street Baptist Church.

On May 3, 1955, he married Betty Jeanne Hood. She preceded him in death on December 26, 1991. He was preceded in death by his two sons, Robert Jr. and Mike. He was also preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Carolyn Sue, and brothers, Basil, Charles (Bub), Kenneth (Tooper) and Floyd.

Survivors include his daughters, Carrie Coulter (Marvin Lager) and Lori Williams of Maryville. His granddaughters, Brea Coulter (Trace Hunt) and Kenna Coulter of Maryville. His chosen son Tom (Amy) Coulter of Pickering and several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

He loved watching the NWMSU Bearcat football and basketball teams as well as the Kansas City Chiefs. However, his greatest joy was being Papa Bob and loved spoiling Kenna and Brea.

Robert has been cremated under the care of Price Funeral Home. His ashes will be placed to rest at Oak Hill Cemetery at a private family interment.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, December 19th at 6:30 pm at Laura Street Baptist Church, 120 South Laura in Maryville. Please dress comfortably in your favorite Bearcat or Chief’s attire.

In lieu of flowers, monetary memorials may be given to the family or Price Funeral Home to be given to Spoofy Beans.

Hadley DeFreece, Baylie Busby Sink Mustangs

Late baskets from Hadley DeFreece and Bailey Busby and a key free throw from Jill Boswell helped Northeast Nodaway’s girls sink North Nodaway 44-39 Tuesday, December 13th. Bailey posted the kind of numbers that she did against Worth County; she had 24 points, 10 tips, and 8 steals.

Previously, North Nodaway had rallied following the loss of Saryn Brown (knee), winning their next three games. It looked like NEN was going in the opposite direction; after an impressive 39-21 win over Worth County, they dropped a 24-22 game to Stanberry in which they were in foul trouble all game and neither side could hit anything. Forced to play back to back nights, they played a good game against King City, but lost to a Wildkat squad which only lost by 11 to Platte Valley and which subsequently beat highly touted St. Joseph Christian 34-33 in their next game.

But when the two teams took the floor, it was Northeast Nodaway who came out on fire as Bailey Busby, Jaden Atkins, and Skyler Florea shot the Bluejays into an 8-3 lead. But Jaden went down with a knee injury, and Hadley DeFreece fouled Jacquelyn Cline at the buzzer at halfcourt, and she made all three of her shots to cut the Mustang deficit to 10-9 after one. But Hadley would atone for her mistake later on.

North Nodaway appeared to take control as Cline hit a 3-pointer from the top of the key and Elaina Renfro hit a jumper from the wing set up by a Cline drive to make it 14-10. Bailey Busby and Skyler Florea scored to tie it up at 14, but then Lauren Herndon showed some newfound ability to create points on her own, knocking down a free throw and then adding a 3-pointer off a pass from Lacy Riley to make it 18-14. Lacy, who has earned a lot of playing time as a freshman for the Mustangs, showed an ability to distribute the ball, something North Nodaway will need. 

Dalanie Auffert got two free throws and Bailey Busby cleaned up after a steal to tie it at 20, but Lauren hit yet another 3-pointer before Hadley DeFreece scored off a Busby steal to cut Northeast’s deficit to 21-20 at the half.

The game settled into a war of attrition as Ellaina Renfro picked up her third and fourth fouls for North Nodaway, but Skyler Florea picked up her fourth for Northeast. Northeast held a 28-26 lead, but Lauren Herndon converted on a steal at the buzzer to tie it at 28 going into the fourth.

Bailey Busby knocked down a shot in the high post after Dalanie Auffert kept a possession alive with an offensive board and Bailey went coast to coast to make it 32-28, but Lauren Herndon threatened to take over the game, once again showing her newfound ability to create points on her own. She slashed to the rim to score, and then knocked down a 3-pointer to put the Mustangs back in front. Skyler Florea knocked one down in the high post, but Lauren hit a pullup to make it 35-34. 

Bailey Busby scored off a drive to put Northeast up 36-35, but then Jacquelyn Cline took on Busby and Florea, drew Skyler’s fifth foul, and hit both free throws to make it 37-36. North Nodaway got a stop on the other end and once again, Cline blew past two Bluejay defenders to make it 39-36 with 1:49 left.

But just as it looked like North Nodaway would take over like they did the first time the two teams met, Bailey Busby drew the attention of the defense and threw to Hadley DeFreece, who hit a tying three with 1:29 left to make it 39-39. 

Lauren Herndon then missed a 1-1 with 1:10 left and then Bailey Busby drove and scored with 57 seconds left to put Northeast up 41-39. Cline tried to answer, but Dalanie Auffert came out of nowhere to help, got set to take the charge, and Cline lost it out of bounds with 41 seconds.

Forced to foul, North Nodaway put Busby on the line, and she missed a 1-1. There was a mad scramble for the loose ball and North Nodaway got a timeout called as Ellaina Renfro grabbed it lying on the ground with 27 seconds left. 

Lauren Herndon got a good look from the left wing, but missed and Jill Boswell got the defensive board with 8.6 seconds left. North Nodaway put her on the line, which made sense as she hadn’t scored all night. But Jill hit one of two to make it 42-39.

North Nodaway tried to rush it up for a tying three, but Bailey Busby stole the ball from Cline and scored with 3 seconds left for the dagger. 

For Northeast, Bailey Busby had 24 points. Hadley DeFreece and Skyler Florea had 6 each, Dalanie Auffert 4, Jaden Atkins 3, and Jill Boswell 1.

Dalanie Auffert had 6 blocks and Bailey Busby 1.

Dalanie Auffert had 10 boards. Bailey Busby and Skyler Florea had 6 each, Jill Boswell 5, Hadley DeFreece 3, and Sasha Deardorff 1.

Dalanie Auffert had 6 assists. Bailey Busby had 4, Hadley DeFreece 2, and Skyler Florea and Jill Boswell 1.

Bailey Busby had 10 tips. Hadley DeFreece had 3, Dalanie Auffert and Sasha Deardorff 2, and Jill Boswell 1.

Bailey Busby had 8 steals. Skyler Florea and Hadley DeFreece had 2 each, and Dalanie Auffert had 1.

For North Nodaway, they got scoring from both Lauren Herndon and Jacquelyn Cline, but they are still looking for a third scoring threat. Herndon had 21 points, Cline 16, and Ellaina Renfro 2. 

Angie Parker and Lauren Herndon had 1 block each.

Angie Parker has continued to emerge as one of the best rebounders on the team this year; she had 8 along with Lauren Herndon. Jacquelyn Cline, Kelsi Barcus, and Lacy Riley had 4 each. Ellaina Renfro had 2.

Lacy Riley and Kelsi Barcus had 4 assists each. Jacquelyn Cline had 2 and Angie Parker 1.

Lauren Herndon had 4 tips. Ellaina Renfro had 2, and Jacquelyn Cline, Angie Parker, Lacy Riley, and Kelsi Barcus each had 1.

Lauren Herndon had 4 steals. Jacquelyn Cline had 2, and Kelsi Barcus and Angie Parker had 1.

Dylan McIntyre Scores 42, Boston Adwell Steps Up Game as Bluejay Boys Win Scoring Duel Over DeKalb

Northeast Nodaway’s boys won their second straight game Friday as Dylan McIntyre hung 42 on DeKalb, Boston Adwell played his best game as a Bluejay with 10 points and 6 assists, and Northeast won 67-54 in a game that featured a scoring duel between Dylan McIntyre and DeKalb’s Devin Hall. Hall had 33 points for DeKalb. DeKalb had won only one game up to that point, but had played a lot of teams tough.

It didn’t look good for Northeast at first. Drew Dack was dressed out for the game, but he did not play the first half. Meanwhile, DeKalb gashed them early and often in the first quarter and the early part of the second, with both Hall and Wyatt Miller getting to the rim at will. It didn’t help that Northeast missed six free throws in the early going and shot 13 for 29 from the line for the game. DeKalb built up a 12-6 lead early in the second before Dylan McIntyre suddenly got untracked. He got loose twice in transition and scored off a Jake Redden steal to knot it at 12-12, but Hall kept going to the rim and Davyn Humes added a pair of free throws and Zander Mattson added one as DeKalb built the lead back up to 24-18 at the half. McIntyre did all he could in the second quarter to keep it close, getting 10 points in the period, but the DeKalb press was taking its toll.

Drew Dack came back to start the second half, and the Bluejays discovered that they needed him on the floor to be effective, as they played with a completely different energy level when he was out there. He only scored three points in the game, but he made the two most important plays of the second half. Hesitant about attacking opponents who were pressuring him earlier in the year, he did a lot better this time. Hall tried to pressure him, only for Drew to draw two quick fouls on him and send him to the bench with foul trouble. Dack’s drives didn’t lead to direct scores, but it opened everyone else up; Northeast had 26 in the third quarter and 23 in the fourth.

Boston Adwell’s 3-pointer off a pass from Dylan McIntyre tied it at 26. DeKalb, like they always do, kept coming at Northeast, bringing the heat with their press and reestablished the lead at 30-26, but four straight from Dylan tied it again before Hall went to the bench. The game was tied at 32, but without Hall, Northeast started to take control as Dylan McIntyre got a putback and Trenton Hartley added a 3-pointer. Humes cut it to 37-34, but Dylan McIntyre countered with a steal, Boston Adwell got a putback, and Drew hit Dylan inside to make it 43-34. Jake Redden added a free throw to make it 44-34.

Dylan McIntyre picked up his fourth foul and Gavin Moore’s free throws cut it to 44-36 to start the fourth quarter; the Bluejay lead was anything but safe as DeKalb nearly wiped out a 22 point deficit against Worth County earlier this year and erased a 16 point deficit against North Nodaway last year. Sure enough, Devin Hall came back rested and began to cut into the Bluejay lead, getting his team to within 50-46. It would have been closer, but DeKalb was called for a carrying violation; they got several of those that wiped out some badly needed points. 

Northeast was able to rebuild its lead as Dylan McIntyre got a putback, Jake Redden hit Boston Adwell for his second 3-pointer of the night, and Dylan finished after a great bounce pass in transition from Drew Dack to make it 57-48.

Hall kept coming, cutting it to 59-52, but then Jack Boswell and Dylan McIntyre hit free throws, Drew hit Dylan inside, Jack went coast to coast for a layup, and Drew Dack hit a free throw to make it 66-52. Hall hit a pullup to cut it to 66-54, but time was running out and Dylan hit a free throw to end the scoring. Hall had scored all 18 points for DeKalb in the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough as Northeast was firing on all cylinders in the second half.

Dylan McIntyre had 42 for Northeast. Boston Adwell had 10, Jack Boswell 6, Trent Hartley and Drew Dack 3, Brycen Kennard 2, and Jake Redden 1.

Boston Adwell and Dylan McIntyre had 1 block each.

Dylan McIntyre had 12 boards to get a double double. Jake Redden had 10, Boston Adwell 7, Jack Boswell and Drew Dack 3, and Brycen Kennard 1.

Boston Adwell had 6 assists for the Bluejays. Drew Dack had 5, Jack Boswell 4, Dylan McIntyre 3, and Jake Redden 2.

Dylan McIntyre and Drew Dack had 4 tips. Jake Redden had 2, and Boston Adwell and Trent Hartley had 1 each.

Dylan McIntyre had 3 steals. Jake Redden and Boston Adwell had 2 each, and Trent Hartley and Drew Dack 1 each.

Northeast will find out right away how well they measure up against the best as they play Nodaway Valley on January 3rd.

Skyler Florea Swipes 9 as Bluejay Girls Get Easy Win Over DeKalb

Skyler Florea had a big defensive night for Northeast, getting 9 steals, and she added 8 points as the Bluejays got their sixth win of the year, 44-18 over DeKalb Friday. Limited by foul trouble much of the year, Skyler stayed on the floor for most of the night Friday and finally showed what she was capable of doing. DeKalb got some points from Laine Vogan, their best shooter, but they could never get a post game established as Skyler was always there to help out and steal the ball away from them. Hadley DeFreece added pressure up front and got 7 more steals. 

The game featured a matchup between two teams that are good at taking the ball from the other team. Early on, DeKalb had their trap working, forcing Northeast into some quick shots, and Laine Vogan had the hot hand as they jumped out to a quick 5-0 lead. Northeast had five early turnovers and burned two timeouts trying to figure out how to solve DeKalb’s swarming trap defense. 

But Baylie Busby got the Bluejays back into the game after Skyler got a tip and Busby the steal, leading to two free throws on the other end. Busby and Dalanie Auffert added putbacks, and the Bluejays had fought back to take a 6-5 lead after one.

At that point, it looked like it would be a tough defensive struggle; Northeast has split with North Nodaway, and North Nodaway beat DeKalb 30-27 in the third place game at the Platte Valley Invitational. But early in the second quarter, with Northeast leading 8-5, DeKalb picked up a costly foul as Rachel Reagan picked up her third foul trying to guard Busby after she had gotten another offensive board. Busby only made one of two, but Reagan went to the bench with her third foul. With DeKalb playing without their best floor player, the momentum swung in Northeast’s favor for the rest of the game.

Busby added another free throw and scored off a steal, forcing DeKalb into a timeout with Northeast up 12-5. Skyler Florea hit Dalanie Auffert inside to make it 14-5, and even Busby’s second foul and trip to the bench didn’t stop Northeast as Auffert added a three point play to make it 17-5 before Vogan’s free throw cut it to 17-6 at halftime. 

Reagan returned to start the third quarter, but that did not stop the momentum as Busby went coast to coast and hit two free throws to start the third quarter. Busby picked up her third foul and Gracie Hanshaw hit a free throw for DeKalb to cut it to 19-7, but then Skyler Florea got the hot hand for Northeast, scoring from inside, knocking down a shot from the right wing, and scoring off a steal. Dalanie Auffert scored from inside off a pass from Sasha Deardorff and Sasha scored off a steal to make it 19-7 late in the third.

But then Vogan got untracked for DeKalb, scoring a 3-pointer before the end of the quarter to make it 29-10 after three. Hadley DeFreece scored in transition, but Vogan scored again and added a steal to cut it to 31-15.

DeKalb was running their trap again and it was clicking for them, but then Northeast finally solved it, passing out of the trap and getting it to Auffert, who hit two free throws to break the run. Hanshaw scored twice for DeKalb, but Skyler Florea got a putback and Baylie Busby got a tip and steal and added a 3-pointer to make it 40-18. Sasha Deardorff scooped up a carom and slashed to the rim and then Makenzie Pride cleaned up after a Deardorff steal in the closing minutes.

Baylie Busby had 17 points. Dalanie Auffert had 11, Skyler Florea 8, Sasha Deardorff 4, and Hadley DeFreece and Makenzie Pride 2.

Dalanie Auffert had 3 blocks and Skyler Florea 1.

Baylie Busby had 11 boards. Dalanie Auffert had 9, Jill Boswell 6, Sasha Deardorff 3, Skyler Florea and Makenzie Pride 2, and Gracie Kohlleppel and Mylee Wilmes 1.

Skyler Florea had 3 assists. Dalanie Auffert had 2, and Jill Boswell, Hadley DeFreece, Sasha Deardorff, and Baylie Busby each had 1.

Baylie Busby had 8 tips. Skyler Florea had 6, Hadley DeFreece 4, Dalanie Auffert 3, Sasha Deardorff 2, and Mylee Wilmes 1.

Skyler Florea had 9 steals. Hadley DeFreece had 7, Baylie Busby and Sasha Deardorff 2 each, Jill Boswell 2, and Mylee Wilmes and Dalanie Auffert 1.

Obituary -- Margaret Locke 1930-2022

Margaret Arabella (Thompson) Locke, age 92, Maryville, Missouri, formerly of Grant City, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, December 15, 2022 in Maryville. 

She was born the wit of ten children to John and Alma (Lynch) Thompson on February 26th, 1930 in Lamoni Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Mildred, Ethel, David, Howard, John D, Alice, Paul, Lyndon, Dick and her husband Bob Locke.

She was a member of the First Christian Church of Grant City Missouri. 

She graduated high school from Grant City Mo in 1948 and earned a teaching certificate from Northwest Missouri State Teachers College. She taught for one year at the Butler school in Allendale Mo. 

She married Bob Locke in 1950-upon Bob’s death in 1972 she returned to Northwest Missouri State University and earned her LPN designation. As an LPN, she worked at the Worth County Convalescent Center for over thirty years.

She is survived by her daughter Robyn Janette Locke of Maryville Mo, son Bill (Patty) Locke of Arvada Co, granddaughters Sarah (Nathan) Klaas of Thornton Co and Emily (Neil) Huffaker of Westminster Co, great grandsons Grayson and Nash Huffaker of Westminster Co and numerous nieces and nephews.

Margaret’s body has been cremated under the care of the Andrews-Hann Funeral Home, Grant City.  A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.  Inurnment will be in the Grant City Cemetery.

andrewhannfuneralhome.com

Josh Smith Offered High School Principal Position

The Worth County School Board, at their regular Board of Education Meeting Thursday, voted to offer the High School Principal position to Josh Smith. He has been in education for 15 years. He served as the district’s vocational ag teacher for 11 of these years and the last two as Activities Director, Curriculum Director, and Teacher. He will replace Jon Adwell, who announced his retirement at the November board meeting.

In other action, the board approved food service and transportation program reviews, received an update on CSIP Goal 4 (Improve District Climate and Culture), discussed MAP/EOC results, heard a report from Elementary Principal Chuck Borey on reading incentives, Shop with a Cop, and end of semester activities, heard a report from Mr. Adwell on the FACS food drive and FFA career fair, and approved bank depository bid specifications. Bids will be awarded in February.

Courthouse News for December 14th, 2022

On December 3rd, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department reported that vehicles driven by Autumn Schmidt (18) of Burlington (IA) and Tucker Knox (17) of Mount Ayr were traveling on Route 2 when Knox slowed down and Schmidt rearended him. Schmidt was charged with Failure to Stop Within Assured Distance. There were no injuries.

On December 6th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Sebastian Sweat (23) of Albany alleging DWI, No Valid License, Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway, and Careless & Imprudent Driving.

On December 7th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Triston Kuehner (25) of St. Joseph on a Buchanan County Warrant (Traffic Violation).

On December 7th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2008 Ford Taurus driven by Hannah Sturgeon (20) of Maitland was eastbound on Ivory Road just southeast of Maryville at around 11:40 am when she failed to negotiate a curve, lost control, and overturned. She and a passenger, Alexiana Chambers (22) of Maitland, received minor injuries and were taken to Mosaic in St. Joseph.

On December 8th, multiple Worth County residents reported getting a text purporting to be from the Postal Service claiming that a package for the recipient was about to be returned due to an incorrect house number and directing people to a website. Lisa Runde of the Grant City Post Office reported that this was a scam.

On December 8th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Mark Greeley (66) of Elmo alleging Assault (Felony). Bond was set at $10,000 with the defendant released on his own recognizance.

On December 8th, Harrison County Prosecutor Johnathan Meyer filed charges against Jay Rasmussen (34) of Bethany alleging Assault (Felony).

On December 9th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Office reported that they responded to a call for a well being check. When they made contact, officers observed a gun and a bomb sitting in a man’s lap. The Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Jordan Still (35) of Mount Ayr on charges of Possession of a Weapon by a Felon and Unauthorized Possession of an Offensive Weapon. The Iowa Fire Marshal’s office was called and the bomb was removed to a safe location and deactivated.

On December 9th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Milton Mattison (19) of Shirley (AR) in Nodaway County on charges of DWI and Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway.

On December 10th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Aaron Abbott (32) of Savannah and Devon Stephenson (49) of St. Joseph alleging Burglary (Felony) and three counts Stealing (Felony). 

On December 11th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Caleb Phillips filed charges against Garrett Dozier (20) of Maryville alleging Stalking (Felony). Bond was set at $10,000, cash or surety.

On December 11th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Travis Miller (19) of McFall in Nodaway County on charges of DWI and Minor in Possession.

On December 11th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Barham Dawood (31) of Kansas City in Harrison County on charges of DWI and Careless & Imprudent Driving.

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.

Obituary -- James Kerwin 1942-2022

James M. Kerwin, 79, passed away the morning of December 13, 2022 at the Worth County Convalescent Center.  James was two days shy of his 80th birthday.  

James was born December 15, 1942 in Parnell, MO to Phillip and Mildred Kerwin.  James joined older siblings:  Mary Jo Guard (2017), Robert (2017) & Martin.

James graduated from Ravenwood High School in 1960. Having served in the Missouri Air Guard for seven years, ultimately receiving the rank of Technical Sergeant. 

James was united in marriage to the love of his life, Carol Ann Hunt on April 25, 1964 at St Joseph Parish, Parnell, MO.   While James and Carol Ann established their family they lived on the Kerwin family farm.  Welcomed to this union were Martha Ann, James Anthony and Sarah Ann.  They moved to the Herndon place farm and finally to Grant City.  James continued to run and grow the family farm in addition to eventually working at the Maryville Treatment Center for 18 years.

James was extremely proud of both Kerwin & Hunt Family 100 Year Farms.

In addition to his family and farming, James was an active parishioner and Eucharist Minister at St. Joseph’s Parish.  James lived a lifetime of never knowing a stranger. He would be one of the first to help a stranded motorist or lend a hand to anyone. He lived his faith by example and lived the “Golden Rule.”  Lending a helping hand throughout the community whenever asked.  James was involved with 4-H, MFA & helping the VFW Auxiliary.  

He delighted in traveling, especially to the Branson area to watch a few shows, explore the community, enjoy some wonderful meals and the company of family.  James and Carol Ann took numerous cruises with family & friends as well.

James is survived by his daughter Martha (Ron) Christian of Maryville, MO, son Jim (Susan) of Grant City, MO and daughter Sarah (Mike) Flanagan of Overland Park, KS.  

Grandchildren:  Corey (Heidi) Kerwin of Grant City, MO, Racheal (Alan) Wilson of Council Bluffs, IA, Andrew (Dava) Christian of St. James, MO, Andy Kerwin of Lenox, IA, Michael Christian of Maryville, MO, Thomas Kerwin of Diagonal, IA and  Bethany (Drew) Elliott of Omaha, NE, Christopher Thurman, Parnell, MO

Great Grandchildren: Rayleigh, Gunnar, Cobain, Violet, Evelyn, Layton, Cardor, Opal, Rose & Truman

Sibling:  Martin Kerwin of Ravenwood, MO

Siblings in Law:  Bobbi Jo Bainum of Redding, IA, John (Joyce) Hunt of Coralville, IA, Danny Hunt of Grant City, MO, Timothy (Cynthia) Hunt of New Hampton, MO, Lisa Hargrave of Grant City, MO, Lena Hunt of Grant City, MO and Pat Kerwin of Houston, TX.  Numerous nieces & nephews, cousins and cherished friends.

Preceded in death by beloved wife Carol Ann, parents Phillip & Mildred, Siblings:  Mary Jo Guard and Robert Kerwin, 2 infant siblings, sister-in-laws: Arda Kerwin and brother-in-laws:  Michael Bainum, Dennis Hunt, John Hargrave & Edward Guard.

Per James’ wishes he will be helping advance medical education by his body being gifted to Kansas City University, School of Osteopathic Medicine.

Memorial Services will be after the holidays. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials to be determined later. Arrangements under direction of Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City, MO .

Obituary -- Phyllis Nally 1941-2022

Phyllis Ann Nally, of Maryville, MO, passed away peacefully at home on December 12, 2022 with family at her side.

Phyllis was born in Iowa City, IA, on May 1, 1941.  Her parents were Kenneth Truman and Virginia Lee (Wyman) Brown.  She lived most all her life in the Maryville area.

She graduated in 1959 from Worth County R-II High School, in Grant City, MO as salutatorian of her class.  

On July 3, 1960, Phyllis was united in marriage to Gary Nally, at the Christian Church in Grant City, MO.  He survives of the home in Maryville.  They were married 62 years.

Phyllis retired in 1996 from Eveready Battery Co. in Maryville, MO, after 26 years.  She liked to sew and she made a handmade quilt for each of her grandchildren. Phyllis also loved to work in her flower and rock gardens. She spent many hours watching her grandchildren’s activities.  She and Gary loved to travel    and wintered in Arizona for over 20 years.   

She was preceded in death by her parents; her infant brother, Donald Brown and sister, Betty Brown: and her great granddaughter, Hailey Rowan and brother in law Bill Farrell.

Phyllis is also survived by her 2 children: Lisa (Mark) Dalton, Bedford, IA, and Chris (Amy) Nally, Maryville, MO; 5 grandchildren: Lacy (Dustin) Rowan, Bedford, IA, Jake (Niki) Dalton, Bedford, IA, Sheena (Ryan) Noland, Parker, TX, Amanda (Will) Twaddle, Maryville, MO, and Trent (Chloe) Nally, Maryville, MO; 11 great grandchildren: Brooklyn Rowan (Arron Coleman), Maryville, Taten and Talyn Rowan, Delani, Denali, and Dax Dalton, Bedford, IA, Grayson and Charlotte Noland, Parker, TX, Sophie and Aubrey Twaddle and Brooks Nally, Maryville; her sister, Bonita Farrell, Smithville, MO;  and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Phyllis has been cremated under the care of the Bram Funeral Home, Maryville, MO.  No services are planned at this time.  Her remains will be buried in the Oak Hill Cemetery, Maryville, MO at a later date.  

Memorials can be made in Phyllis’s name to the family and will be used as a gift to the Maryville Public Library. 

Owen Martin Gets 10 Tips, 8 Steals in Mustang Win

Owen Martin got 6 points, 10 tips, and 8 steals Friday night and the North Nodaway boys got their second win of the year, 57-25 over East Harrison. The Bobcats brought coaching institution Tom Hogan out of retirement, but without the likes of Adam Rinehart breaking down defenses or Mark Willis dunking it and protecting the rim, East Harrison couldn’t stop Damian Dailey, who had 19.

Stymied by foul trouble earlier in the year, Owen Martin managed to stay on the floor the whole game and finally showed what he was capable of doing. He relentlessly hounded the Bobcats all night as the Mustangs were able to overcome 26 turnovers of their own. Jeremiah Dobbins added seven steals as the Mustangs were able to collect 23 tips and 28 steals.

The rest was a total team effort as eight different blue shirts scored, ten got a rebound, eight had an assist, six had a tip, and eight had at least one steal for the night. 

With the win, the Mustangs have already improved on last year, as they won one game all last year and have won two already. New coach Cody Jenkins was frustrated early on with the team’s struggles, but finally had a night in which he could relax. “We’re getting there,” he said after the game.

It all started with the junior varsity, who looked sharp in an easy win over East Harrison in the early going and which carried over to the varsity later on. Kaeden Nave, a freshman, showed some skill handling the ball and finishing at the rim and earned some varsity minutes Friday as a result. Another newcomer, Landon Parman, knocked down a shot. 

Damien Dailey scored 9 points in the first quarter as the Mustangs raced out of the gates to a 16-3 first quarter lead. Despite East Harrison being in the double bonus and North Nodaway turning it over 15 times by the half against East Harrison’s press, they continued to pull away to a 32-14 halftime lead. Dailey returned to score six more in the third and Owen Martin chipped in with four more. The Mustangs stayed away from the foul trouble which hurt them in the first half and led 49-20 after three. Dailey’s putback early in the fourth triggered the running clock.

Lauren Herndon Has Big Quarter as Mustang Girls Win Third Straight

North Nodaway got big nights from Lauren Herndon and Jacquelyn Cline as they got a surprisingly easy 47-16 win over East Harrison Friday. After losing Saryn Brown for the year (knee), North Nodaway won a 30-27 squeaker over DeKalb in which Cline and Herndon scored all 30 of their points.

But then, the Mustangs decided they were not ready to give up on their season, and they went out and got a 57-45 win over archrival Bedford in a game that was not as close as the final score; Bedford left their starters in and pressed North Nodaway’s JV at the end. Jacquelyn Cline matched a career high with 26 points that game.

The focus of Friday’s game was on stopping Karlee Crouse, who had lit up the scoreboard several times in a row for the Bobcats last year in a 69-39 Mustang victory that was not as one-sided as the final score. Between Crouse’s 3-pointers and Chloe Billups eating the Mustangs alive on the offensive boards, there were some anxious moments before the Mustangs pulled away in the fourth quarter.

But it was all Mustangs coming out of the gate as they proceeded to light up the first quarter scoreboard for 31 points. Ellaina Renfro started off the scoring with a putback, Jacquelyn Cline got a three point play after Lauren Herndon aired one out to her, Angie Parker scored two free throws after an offensive board, and Lauren Herndon hit a 3-pointer to make it 10-0.

East Harrison tried to keep up, getting a transition basket from Lainey Thompson and free throws from Thompson and Bree Vaughn to keep it at 16-4. But then Jacquelyn Cline hit back to back 3-pointers, then Herndon hit three straight 3-pointers and by the time the dust had settled, the score was 31-4 before Karlee Crouse finally got untracked to make it 31-7. Herndon had 15 points in the first quarter and Cline had 12.

East Harrison switched to a box and one to start the second and successfully slowed down North Nodaway the rest of the night, but there are four quarters of basketball. Crouse let loose a long 3-pointer early in the third and the Bobcats started working it into the high post, getting Sloane McClain loose for two to make it 40-15 midway through the third. But Cline scored off a drive late in the third and Kelsi Barcus hit from the baseline and Herndon hit a free throw to trigger the running clock at 45-15. Crouse hit a free throw to kill the running clock, but Emily Keho hit from the wing to start it again for the Mustangs.

Kira Robertson Boards 11 as Shamrock Girls Get First Win 38-36

Kira Robertson grabbed 11 boards as North Harrison’s girls grabbed their first win of the year, 38-36 over Winston and made the long ride back home worthwhile. 

After playing a good game but coming up short against North Nodaway, the Shamrocks went through a forgettable stretch in which they were ousted from the Gallatin Tournament and the games were not close. Finally, they went to Princeton, where they were in over their heads and lost 57-12.

On Thursday, North Harrison went to Winston, who was off to a bad start, but who had their number last year. But after Shealyn Pliley’s putback put Winston up 4-3 in the early going, North Harrison jumped in front as Jayliegh Robins hit from the left wing off a pass from Trendi Johnson, Robins added a free throw, and Halle Morgan got a putback to make it 8-4 with 2:47 left.

But foul trouble started to rear its ugly head as Halle Morgan picked up her second foul and Winston moved back ahead at the start of the quarter. Marissa Uthe’s cut inside capped a 6-0 Winston run that put the Redbirds back up 9-8 at the start of the second. 

Carmon Fordyce played some of her best basketball as a Shamrock, hitting two free throws to stop the bleeding and the Shamrocks were able to keep the game close. Jayliegh Robins hit two free throws and scored off a drive and Carmon Fordyce scored off a drive for her fourth point of the period. But Pliley’s free throw put the Redbirds back in front 17-16 at the half.

Obviously in disbelief at seeing a winless team hanging around, Winston decided to change the tempo of the game in the second half, swarming and pressing. The changed tempo resulted in a lot more mistakes as North Harrison gave up 18 offensive boards and committed 13 turnovers in the second half. But after falling behind 20-19 on Pliley’s inside shot with 4:33 left and seeing Jayliegh Robins pick up her third and fourth fouls and Halle Morgan picking up her fourth, North Harrison somehow moved into the lead when Trendi Johnson hit two 3-pointers late in the period to put the Shamrocks in front 27-25 after three. Jaci Davis added two free throws to start the fourth to make it 29-25.

Pliley hit two free throws after a steal to cut the Redbird deficit to 29-27, but Robins and Morgan came back in with 6:09 left despite four fouls and Robins drove at will and got on the line after Winston switched to a man to man to stop the 3-pointers. She went four for four during the next stretch from the line and Jaci Davis added a transition basket to make it 35-27.

But then the tragedy of two years ago, in which North Harrison led the whole way in Winston only to lose to a last second 3-pointer, began to rear its ugly head. Jayliegh Robins got sealed in the post by Pliley and got her fifth foul. Jaci Davis hit two free throws to make it 37-27 with 3:05 left, but then North Harrison started missing from the line. As the free throws started clanking off the rim, Kortny Estes got a putback and Pliley scored four to cut it to 37-33 with 1:13 left. Trendi Johnson finally made a free throw after leaving several short, but Raegan Wollam hit two free throws with 50 seconds left to make it 38-35. 

North Harrison turned it over, but Taige Caldwell missed a 3-pointer, the board was tipped around, and Jaci Davis came away with it. North Harrison called a timeout with 19 seconds left to set up a play, but they didn’t run it right and threw it away and fouled on the other end. Estes a free throw to cut it to 38-36 with 16 seconds left.

The Shamrocks couldn’t inbound it against the press and a tieup went to Winston with 13 seconds. With 11 seconds left, Caldwell missed a go-ahead three and a jump went to North Harrison. But once again, they couldn’t inbound it against the press and a tieup with 9 seconds left went to Winston. 

Winston got a good look in the high post, but the shot rolled off the lid on the rim and Carmon Fordyce secured the board as time expired. It took the Shamrocks a few moments to realize that they had finally won a game.

Jayliegh Robins had 12 points for the Shamrocks. Trendi Johnson had 10, Jaci Davis 8, and Halle Morgan and Carmon Fordyce 4 each. 

Halle Morgan had 2 blocks and Jayliegh Robins 1.

Kira Robertson had 11 boards for the Shamrocks, mixing it up against much taller opponents. Halle Morgan had 7, Jayliegh Robins 6, Trendi Johnson 5, Jaci Davis 4, and Carmon Fordyce 3.

Trendi Johnson had 6 assists. Jaci Davis had 4, Jayliegh Robins 2, and Kira Robertson 1.

Halle Morgan, Jaci Davis, and Kira Robertson had 3 tips. Jayliegh Robins had 2 and Trendi Johnson and Carmon Fordyce 1.

Jayliegh Robins had 4 steals. Halle Morgan had 3, Kira Robertson 2, and Trendi Johnson and Rhealynn Estrada 1 each.

Baylie Busby Erupts in Bluejay Victory

Baylie Busby had a monster night for Northeast Nodaway’s girls last Tuesday, December 6th. She got 20 points, 15 tips, and 10 steals for a triple double as Northeast Nodaway got the 39-21 win over Worth County. “She’s such fun to watch,” said her teammate Jill Boswell.

Worth County was shorthanded Tuesday night, without Hailey Adwell (flu). Without her providing a lot of Worth County’s scoring punch, they had trouble matching Busby and the Bluejays. They could do nothing against Northeast’s defense as the Bluejays rejected 8 shots, got 35 tips, and had 21 steals. Northeast also won the turnover battle as they forced 25 turnovers and surrendered the ball only 14 times.

Baylie Busby scored off a steal, hit two free throws, and then went coast to coast after grabbing a defensive board to make it 6-0 with 3:28 left in the first. Busby then picked up two quick fouls in succession and the game turned into a defensive struggle, with nobody scoring for either team except for Paige Sherer, who put Worth County on the board with 1:10 left to make it 6-2. 

Ali Brown hit a free throw to cut it to 6-3 to start the second, but Busby came back and scored off a drive. Skyler Florea cut inside and got a pass from Hadley DeFreece, Dalanie Auffert hit a free throw, and Busby got a tip and steal before coach Sheldon Saxton took her out to protect her from getting her third foul.

Brown hit two free throws and Kynah Steele hit a circus shot when she threw a shot off the side of the backboard, caught her own carom, and put it back in to cut it to 14-7. But Skyler Florea scored off a steal to put Northeast up 16-7 at the half.

Busby came back in the third quarter and this time stayed out of foul trouble as Northeast pulled away in the third quarter. Liz Brown hit a free throw and Taylor Sanders hit Rylee Ruckman for three to make it 16-11, but Hadley DeFreece answered with a 3-pointer of her own, Skyler Florea hit Busby on the right side, Florea hit Jill Boswell in transition, Busby hit a free throw, Skyler got a steal after Busby got a tip, and Busby scored off a steal to make it 28-11 and cap the 12-0 run. Liz Brown scored off a putback, but Worth County missed two free throws and Busby scored coast to coast and hit a free throw to make it 31-13.

Brylee Rush scored from inside, but Dalanie Auffert hit two free throws and Skyler Florea got a tip and Busby got a steal to make it 35-15 before Northeast cleared its bench.

Worth County finally got going offensively when Kynah Steele got a putback and added a free throw. Rylee Ruckman got a free throw and Abbi Brown scored from inside to make it 35-21. It would have been more interesting, but Worth County missed five free throws during that stretch. Mylee Wilmes hit from the right side after a pass from Jill Boswell and Sasha Deardorff cleaned up in transition to restore order for Northeast.

For Northeast, Baylie Busby had 20, Skyler Florea 6, Dalanie Auffert and Hadley DeFreece 3 each, Jill Boswell, Mylee Wilmes, and Sasha Deardorff 2 each, and Jaden Atkins 1.

Dalanie Auffert had 4 blocks and Hadley DeFreece, Jill Boswell, Gracie Kohlleppel, and Jaden Atkins 1 each.

Dalanie Auffert had 6 boards. Skyler Florea and Sasha Deardorff had 5 each, Bailey Busby and Jill Boswell 4 each, Jaden Atkins 2, and Hadley DeFreece and Makenzie Pride 1 each.

Skyler Florea had 3 assists. Hadley DeFreece, Baylie Busby, and Jill Boswell had 2 each, and Mylee Wilmes 1.

Baylie Busby had 15 tips. Skyler Florea and Hadley DeFreece had 6 tips each. Mylee Wilmes had 4, Makenzie Pride 2, and Sasha Deardorff and Dalanie Auffert 1 each.

Baylie Busby had 10 steals. Skyler Florea had 6, Sasha Deardorff 2, and Dalanie Auffert, Jill Boswell, and Gracie Kohlleppel 1 each.

For Worth County, Kynah Steele had 5. Rylee Ruckman had 4, Ali Brown and Liz Brown 3 each, and Paige Sherer, Brylee Rush, and Abbi Brown 2 each.

Ali Brown had 1 block.

Kynah Steele had 9 boards. Liz Brown had 4, Ali Brown, Rylee Ruckman, and Abbi Brown 3 each, Brylee Rush 2, and Taylor Sanders, Paige Sherer, and Bridgette Hightshoe 1 each.

Kynah Steele had 5 assists. Kynah Steele, Abbi Brown, and Taylor Sanders 1 each.

Kynah Steele had 7 tips. Liz Brown and Taylor Sanders had 4 each, Paige Sherer and Abbi Brown 2 each, and Rylee Ruckman, Ali Brown, and Bridgette Hightshoe 1 each.

Rylee Ruckman had 5 steals. Rylee Ruckman, Ali Brown, and Liz Brown 2 each. Abbi Brown and Lanie Cousatte had 1 each.