NEN Names Three Certified Staff, Fills Extra Duty Positions

At their regular Board of Education Meeting in May, the NEN School Board made the following personnel moves:

Certified Hires or renewed contracts:

Toni McLaughlin - part-time ECSE

Sydney Meek - Ag Teacher

Eryn Kemper - PAT- (Parents as Teachers)

Extra Duty Contracts:

Sikoya Trelow - ESY-(SPED)

Marcy Sobotka - DARE Board Officer

Jared Freemyer - Athletic Maintenance

Colton Davidson - Assistant Athletic Maintenance

David Kiene - HS Boys Basketball Coach

Colton Davidson - Assistant HS Boys Basketball Coach

Colton Davidson & Payton Adwell - 9th Grade Sponsors

Barb Bredlow & Jared Freemyer - 11th Grade Sponsors

Tabi Adwell - 12th Grade Sponsor

Sydney Meek - FFA Sponsor

David Kiene, Sheldon Saxton, Emily Bonifas - 2023 Summer Basketball Activities

Emily Bonifas & Payton Adwell - 2023 Summer Speed & Agility Coaches

Non-Certified Staff Approved:

Paraprofessionals:  Kyndall Porter, Anne Briney, Michelle Joslin

Cafeteria Point of Sale Clerks:  Ruth Adwell, Omi Adwell, Tina Wendle

All votes were 7-0, except where a board member had to abstain due to a relation.

Sullivan Ballou’s Last Letter to His Wife Read at Isadora Memorial Day Service

This year, for the annual Memorial Day service at Isadora, Jeshua Blaine, who himself is serving in the military and is about to undergo officer training, read a letter by Sullivan Ballou to his wife shortly before the Battle of Manassas, the first major battle of the Civil War:

My Very Dear Wife:

Indications are very strong that we shall move in a few days, perhaps to-morrow. Lest I should not be able to write you again, I feel impelled to write a few lines, that may fall under your eye when I shall be no more.

Our movement may be one of a few days duration and full of pleasure and it may be one of severe conflict and death to me. Not my will, but thine, O God be done. If it is necessary that I should fall on the battle-field for any country, I am ready. I have no misgivings about, or lack of confidence in, the cause in which I am engaged, and my courage does not halt or falter. I know how strongly American civilization now leans upon the triumph of government, and how great a debt we owe to those who went before us through the blood and suffering of the Revolution, and I am willing, perfectly willing to lay down all my joys in this life to help maintain this government, and to pay that debt.

But, my dear wife, when I know, that with my own joys, I lay down nearly all of yours, and replace them in this life with care and sorrows, when, after having eaten for long years the bitter fruit of orphanage myself, I must offer it, as their only sustenance, to my dear little children, is it weak or dishonorable, while the banner of my purpose floats calmly and proudly in the breeze, that my unbounded love for you, my darling wife and children, should struggle in fierce, though useless, contest with my love of country.

I cannot describe to you my feelings on this calm summer night, when two thousand men are sleeping around me, many of them enjoying the last, perhaps, before that of death, and I, suspicious that Death is creeping behind me with his fatal dart, am communing with God, my country and thee.

I have sought most closely and diligently, and often in my breast, for a wrong motive in this hazarding the happiness of those I loved, and I could not find one. A pure love of my country, and of the principles I have often advocated before the people, and "the name of honor, that I love more than I fear death," have called upon me, and I have obeyed.

Sarah, my love for you is deathless. It seems to bind me with mighty cables, that nothing but Omnipotence can break; and yet, my love of country comes over me like a strong wind, and bears me irresistibly on with all those chains, to the battlefield. The memories of all the blissful moments I have spent with you come crowding over me, and I feel most deeply grateful to God and you, that I have enjoyed them so long. And how hard it is for me to give them up, and burn to ashes the hopes of future years, when, God willing, we might still have lived and loved together, and seen our boys grow up to honorable manhood around us.

I know I have but few claims upon Divine Providence, but something whispers to me, perhaps it is the wafted prayer of my little Edgar, that I shall return to my loved ones unharmed. If I do not, my dear Sarah, never forget how much I love you, nor that, when my last breath escapes me on the battle-field, it will whisper your name.

Forgive my many faults, and the many pains I have caused you. How thoughtless, how foolish I have oftentimes been! How gladly would I wash out with my tears, every little spot upon your happiness, and struggle with all the misfortune of this world, to shield you and my children from harm. But I cannot, I must watch you from the spirit land and hover near you, while you buffet the storms with your precious little freight, and wait with sad patience till we meet to part no more.

But, O Sarah, if the dead can come back to this earth, and flit unseen around those they loved, I shall always be near you in the garish day, and the darkest night amidst your happiest scenes and gloomiest hours always, always, and, if the soft breeze fans your cheek, it shall be my breath; or the cool air cools your throbbing temples, it shall be my spirit passing by.

Sarah, do not mourn me dear; think I am gone, and wait for me, for we shall meet again.

As for my little boys, they will grow as I have done, and never know a father's love and care. Little Willie is too young to remember me long, and my blue-eyed Edgar will keep my frolics with him among the dimmest memories of his childhood. Sarah, I have unlimited confidence in your maternal care, and your development of their characters. Tell my two mothers, I call God's blessing upon them. O Sarah, I wait for you there! Come to me, and lead thither my children.

- Sullivan

Mr. Ballou’s premonitions were true. He was one of the first people killed in the Civil War, in the Battle of Manassas. He had given up a successful career in law and politics in order to fight in the Civil War. He was a successful attorney in Rhode Island and had served as Speaker of the House. But then President Abraham Lincoln called for volunteers following the Battle of Fort Sumter, and Mr. Ballou enlisted in the 2nd Rhode Island Infantry, where he became a Major.

Jeshua Blaine said that it was duty that drove people to fight and die for their country. He said they had a value system that valued God, family, and country and that they all acted accordingly. As soldiers, they had a duty to the people around them, and to bear one another’s burdens. They were only as strong as the person next to them in the foxhole. 

Maurice Peve Honored at North Nodaway Alumni Reunion

Maurice Peve of the Class of 1946 was honored Saturday night as the oldest guest at the North Nodaway Alumni Reunion and led the people present in the singing of the fight song. His favorite teacher was his basketball coach, L.C. Skelton, who he said was a fatherly figure to his boys. Mr. Peve remembered Ab Owens from the late 1930’s well; Owens set the standard as he was always the best player on the court, and in the rare event his teams lost, he would stay in the locker room disconsolate while his coach would console him and they would figure out ways to ensure it wouldn’t happen again. 

Owens’ #55 was retired, and his mates continued the high standard he had set, cumulating in a state runner-up finish in 1942, coming within four points of the state title before falling 45-41 to Greenwood. That was when Missouri schools were divided into two classes, forcing one to play much bigger schools if they wanted to contend for a state title. 

Peve and his mates continued that tradition for the next four years, regularly beating the likes of Benton and Maryville. He took care of himself well after he graduated, biking 3,000 to 4,000 miles a year at one point, remembering where he came from, and employing a lot of people in the community over the years. He was greeted by many well wishers at Saturday’s reunion.

Superintendent Chris Turpin gave an update on how the school was doing. When he got there three years ago, he asked staff what was needed at the school, and what came out of those conversations was the goal of making all their students college and career ready. One of the first things he did was do away with the limit on students who could attend vo-tech; despite the expense, he said it was worth it if the school believed in its mission. One year saw 21 students attend vo-tech; the school year that was recently finished saw 14.

Ever since then, the school has moved to expand opportunities. Two students are in the process of taking exams; if they pass, they will become FAA certified drone pilots. Juniors and seniors are doing job shadowing, and the school has done work releases for students to work for local employers while staying on track to graduate. 

The school recently finished its periodic Comprehensive School Improvement Plan. The focus will be on student achievement, especially literacy; opportunities; culture and climate; textbooks; and fiscal responsibility. For instance, Mr. Turpin noted Saturday that there was local demand for plasma cutting, so the school added it to the ag program.

Among opportunities offered include volleyball, football, basketball, track, dance, cheer, band, FFA, Leo Club, FBLA, Scholar Bowl, and music programs including choir and drum line. 

Recently, the school hosted an FFA competition in which 20 schools and 350 kids participated. North Nodaway FFA students helped run the competition. It went well, and the school is planning to offer it again. 

Every elementary teacher is getting certified in LETRS, which is a program to help teachers understand the science of how kids learn to read and spell. Teachers will take tests after taking it for two years to get certified. 

With the high price of college and student loan debt being in the news, a lot more students are taking vocational programs, but there are still opportunities for traditional college programs. The school offers 11 different dual credit courses through Northwest and North Central Missouri College, which will give students a head start if they choose to go to college.

When Mr. Turpin started, the school’s reserves were down to $1.2 million, with needed maintenance being deferred. The passage of the bond issue allowed the school to free up money to do needed maintenance on the school and build up their reserves. The wind farm money means that the school will have an estimated $2.4 million in reserves by the end of the current school year.

The bus barn, when completed, will have seven bus bays and one wash bay, which means that bus drivers won’t have to come an hour before they have to set out on their bus routes to scrape ice off and warm the buses up. 

The security entrance at the front of the high school will make it a lot easier for staff to screen visitors. “Protecting staff and kids is my top priority,” said Turpin. The project includes an elevator, which ensures confidentiality when a student with special needs receives a visit from someone outside the school. The Hopkins School sign has been moved so that it will still be visible on the front of the building.

The addition to the Pickering building will free up space and allow for the school to accept more preschool students. The library will move from its current location to the new addition, freeing up that space to become the lunch room. That will free up the gym for more recess time and PE instruction, and will also be safer for kids, since they don’t have to carry trays down the steps. 

In addition to the bond issue, the school has gotten around $305,000 worth of grants this year. The school got a $140,800 grant from the Rickard Trust to replace all 44 interior doors at the High School, which will be easier to secure in the event of an intruder. The old doors were given away to alumni at the banquet this year. The school got a school safety grant from the state, an air quality grant from the DHSS, a preschool startup grant, and a telehealth grant.

The school has not been without adversity. On April 4th of this year, a massive hailstorm caused $325,000 worth of damage to the school, and the school is working with the insurance company to get it paid for. The brand new roof at the bus barn needs replaced, along with the south side of the ag shop and the recreational center. 

Steve Alexander of the North Nodaway Educational Foundation, reported on the scholarships they give out. They manage seven scholarships that people have established over the years, including their own. This year, they awarded their scholarship to Darron Bix, who is pursuing a degree in Accounting. They gave out $5,000 worth of scholarships this year. 

A roll call was held with alumni from 1946 to 1993 being recognized. People attended from as far away as Austin (TX), Huntsville (AL), and Colorado. Peggy Lyons of St. Albans (VT) came from the farthest away. Twelve present were teachers and 15 present served in the military, with the oldest veteran having served in 1957. 

The classes of 1953, 1963, and 1973 were honored. Graduating from the North Nodaway Class of 1973 were Richard Andrews, Richard Baldwin, Janet Brown, Ronald Burch, Rose Cassavaugh, Deborah Chesnut, Cynthia Coleman, James Collins, Marcia Cross, Donnetta Davis, Jeanne Everhart, Phil Forney, David Frueh, Jerold Harris, Cynthia Howard, Mark Huff, Sara Lawrence, John Linebaugh, George Livengood, Jacquelyn McKee, Rita Minshall, Joseph Mutti, Vicki Peve, Wren Peve, Ronald Robinson, Charles Roush, Margaret Sharr, Michael Smith, Susan Stelter, Anita Stringer, Vicki Titus, William Turner, Kirby White, and David Young. Two students who passed away in 1972, but who would have graduated, were Michael Lowrance and Randall Young.

New officers were elected for the 2024 reunion, which will be held May 25th at the North Nodaway School. Vicki Riley was President, Jackie Zarzour Vice-President, Secretary Diane Thomson, and Treasurer Dick Baldwin. 

Alma Mater

As sung by Maurice Peve and the North Nodaway Alumni Saturday

Once again, here as schoolmates assemble,

We fain would lift our hearts in song,

To our High School, our dear Alma Mater,

Let gladness the moment prolong.

We are proud of her lads and her lasses,

Of honors won in days gone by,

So here’s a cheer for our old High School,

For our High School,

Our Dear Old High.

Here’s to our classes, here’s to our lasses,

Here’s to the lads they adore;

Here’s to the seniors so mighty,

Juniors so flighty,

“Freshie” and Sophomore!

Let mirth and gladness banish all sadness,

And as the days go by,

You’ll find us ready and steady,

Boosting our our “Old High.”

Larry Dowis is Oldest Present at Sheridan High School Alumni Reunion Sunday

Larry Dowis was the oldest man present at the Sheridan Alumni Reunion present Sunday, having graduated from the Sheridan High School Class of 1951. He said that the way to live long was to eat well, quit smoking and drinking, and quit chasing those wild women. He said it was up to the Good Lord to keep one going. 

Back in 1951, Arthur Cook was honored for 29 years of service to the Sheridan High School as board secretary. He also served in Jones West, Grandview, and Gravelhill. V.M. Farrell was the superintendent, William Doran was the ag teacher, Lucille Wilson the Commerce teacher, Porter Tumy the Social Studies teacher, PE teacher, and basketball coach, Shirley Tumy the music teacher, Frances Farrell the secretary and Home Economics teacher, and Audrey Merritt the English teacher. Mr. Doran returned to several Alumni Reunions as recently as the late 2000’s.

School board members were Luz Hawk, Vernon Wilson, Loren Hart, June Dowis, and Kenneth Hoover. 

Bus drivers were Burl Huff, Earl Goin, Gary Wake, Earl Finch, Charles Frump, and Rex Heyle. They did not drive your traditional yellow school bus; they would drive kids to school in a four wheel drive pickup. 

Cooks were Jessie Surplus and Mac McCullom. Custodian was Duane Combs.

Honored were the classes of 1953, 1963, and 1973. Ida Smyser was present from the Class of 1953. She said her favorite teacher was Mr. Tumy, along with Lucille Wilson. 

Present from the Class of 1963 were Linda Walker and Lois Hodge. Hodge said her favorite teacher was Wayne Winstead, who was just starting out his Hall of Fame career as a basketball coach. Her other favorite was Sally Beezley, the typing teacher, who was very understanding and who was willing to give students who worked hard the benefit of the doubt. 

Several members of the Class of 1973 showed up. One was Stephen Allee, who somehow arrived in one piece after the prophecies of the yearbook of that year were revealed. The 1973 yearbook predicted that he would attempt to jump through the doors of a box car on his motorcycle going 60 miles per hour, only to find that the box car doors were closed. Either the account was fake news or Mr. Allee lived to tell about the episode, as he was present in good health. “I’ve been in out and absent; I’ve been from a ways off,” he said at the gathering. 

One member, Bob Fletchall of the Class of 1970, had to figure out a way to dodge traffic that was backed up for an hour on Interstate 29 as tens of thousands of people were flocking to Gower, to view the body of Sister Wilhelmina Lancaster, foundress of the Benedictines of Mary. Four years after her passing, her body was discovered intact, which is regarded as a miracle within the Catholic Church.

Chandra Hopkins, from the Class of 1974, was the youngest present.

Present at the reunion Sunday were Linda Walker (Class of 1963), Laverne Walker (1964), Huey Rowen (1958), Elnora French (1955), Stephen Allee (1973), Ramonia Parman (1958), James Ridge (1959), Larry Hibbs (1961), Larry Dowis (1951), Joyce Stephens (1960), Lois Hodge (1963), Steve Proctor (1972), Sharon Fletchall (1961), Ida Smyser (1953), Darlene Runyan (1955), Mike Rowe (1973), Sharon Rawlings (1968), Bob Fletchall (1970), Mike Scott (1973), Linda Scott (1973), Janet Gladstone (1971), Ivalee Johnson (1960), Chandra Hopkins (1974), Eddie Troutwine (1967), and Geneveive Walker (1957). 

Guests were Kay Rowen, Joyce Ridge, Ida Pace, Genee Haun, Beverly Grimit, and Jesse Stark.

Alumni Association President Mike Scott, who was renominated by acclimation, said the plan was to honor the classes of 1974, 1975, and 1976, when the school closed. “After that, we’ll have to make some hard choices,” he said. Attendance numbers have dropped sharply over the last two years and several Sheridan High School alumni have passed away since the last reunion. 

Obituary -- Marjorie Roush 1936-2023

Marjorie Jean Roush, 87, of Pickering, MO, passed from this life on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at the Nodaway Nursing Home, Maryville, with family at her side.

Marjorie was born in Conway, IA, on April 22, 1936, to Harry Alfred and Frances L. (Drumm) Pistole.  Her parents preceded her in death, as well as her brother, Richard Pistole.  

The family moved to Pickering soon after Marjorie’s birth, and she lived all her life within a mile and a half of where she grew up.  She graduated from Maryville High School and attended Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville.  

Marjorie had worked at the New Life Book Store in Maryville but was mostly a homemaker.  She was an artist, she liked to garden, and was a seamstress and had made many of her own clothes.  She was also active in the Pickering Dinner Theater.   

She was a member and attended the United Methodist Church, Pickering, MO.  She was active in her church, she played the organ and piano often through the years, she taught Sunday school, and a member of the United Methodist Women’s group.  

On January 1, 1956, at the United Methodist Church in Pickering, Marjorie was united in marriage to Lester Ellis Roush, Jr., and he survives of the home.

Other survivors include her children, Teresa (Dennis) Parker, Shambaugh, IA, Pam (Ernest “Bill”) Tempel, Columbia, MO, Jola (Kenny) Fisher, Savannah, MO, and Alan (Adriann) Roush, Maryville, MO;  her grandchildren, Michael Scott (Rachel) Morton, Amanda Morton, Ben Parker, Nathan Tempel, Jacob Fisher, Josh (Jennifer) Fisher, Hailey (Adam) Jahnel, Rachel Roush, Corby Roush, and step grandchildren, Haley Akins, Jaden Akins, Corah Thompson, and Brennon Akins; great grandchildren, Aidan Morton, Nakia, Farrah, and Elyse Fisher, Ellis, Margot, and Callum Fisher, Toben and Cohen Jahnel, and step great granddaughter, Raylee Pettlon.  

Funeral services will be at 10:30 AM, on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at the Bram Funeral Home, Maryville, MO.  The burial will follow in the Long Branch Cemetery, Gaynor, MO.  

The family will receive friends from 6-8:00 PM, on Monday, May 29, 2023, at the Bram Funeral Home.  Memorials are suggested to the United Methodist Church, Pickering, MO.

Courthouse News for May 24th, 2023

On May 16th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Daniel Fitzmier (31) of Mound City alleging Failure to Register as Sex Offender (Felony) and No Valid License. Bond was set at $30,000 with the defendant released on his own recognizance. 

On May 16th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Clinton Harding (36) of Pickering alleging Harassment (Felony) and Assault.

On May 16th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Timothy Clark (44) of Fairfax alleging No Insurance. On May 22nd, Larison filed an additional charge of Driving While Revoked (Felony).

On May 17th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Paul Lowe (29) of San Antonio (TX) in Harrison County on a charge of Speeding and a Clinton County Warrant (Speeding).

On May 17th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 1992 Lexus driven by Elisea Downs (22) of Maryville was northbound on Route 71 and 395th Street 15 miles south of Maryville at around 7:38 pm when her left front tire deflated. The Lexus skidded, traveled off the west side of the roadway, struck a bridge structure, and then returned to the roadway. Downs and a passenger, Mason Bammer (20) of Maryville, received minor injuries and were taken to Mosaic in Maryville.

On May 17th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Jack Buckman (22) of Albany alleging Harassment (Felony), Property Damage, and Tampering with Motor Vehicle. Bond was set at $5,000, cash or corporate surety.

On May 18th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2013 Ford Escape driven by Quentin Murphy (20) of Barnard was northbound on Route 71 one mile north of Pumpkin Center at around 7:07 am when he struck a deer. Murphy received minor injuries and was taken to Mosiac in Maryville.

On May 18th, the US Attorney’s Office in Kansas City reported that Brooke Stewart (38) of St. Joseph pleaded guilty to using the stolen identities of prison inmates to fraudulently stealing $139,663 in benefits from the CARES Act. One of the victims in the case was Garland Nelson, who is serving sentences in a cattle fraud scheme in which he allegedly murdered two Wisconsin brothers in order to avoid paying them money they had attempted to collect. Stewart faces up to 10 years in federal prison without parole. Sentencing will follow a presentence investigation.

On May 18th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Francis Bonor (55) of Eagleville alleging No Insurance. On May 19th, Van Zandt filed additional charges of Leaving the Scene (Felony) and Trespassing. Bond was set at $5,000 cash only for the Leaving the Scene charge and $1,000 cash only for the trespassing charge.

On May 19th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Skyler Smith (28) of St. Joseph in Andrew County on charges of Resisting Arrest (Felony), two counts Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony), DWI (Drugs), Speeding, Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident), Failure to Have Two Lighted Headlamps, Failure to Register, and Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway. 

On May 19th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against James Meek (60) of Blockton alleging DWI (Felony) and Intentionally Inhaling the Fumes of Solvents. Bond was set at $50,000, cash or corporate surety.

On May 19th, Northwest Mo Info reported that the First Interstate Bank of Princeton had gotten robbed at gunpoint. Authorities released a photo on the suspect’s truck. It was subsequently observed in Knoxville (IA) by the Knoxville Police Department. Subsequently, Phillip Blink was arrested on charges of Robbery, Armed Criminal Action, Stealing, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. Bond was denied.

On May 19th, the Missouri Secretary of State published the following news release about a massive securities fraud operation that was busted:

Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft’s Securities Division was helpful in bringing federal charges against a Connecticut man accused of defrauding investors in 11 states, including Missouri.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), in a release, thanked the Missouri Securities Division for their role in providing information and evidence that was material in uncovering an alleged $4.8 million fraud scheme.

The SEC’s complaint alleged that Charles Thomas Lawrence, Jr. misrepresented himself as the managing director of a defunct Swedish entity and promised no-loss investments with large returns that were fictitious. Lawrence is accused of rerouting funds to pay for a lavish lifestyle that included charter jets, international travel, and other misconducts. 

The Missouri Securities Division routinely assists and coordinates with federal regulators on matters in a joint effort to hold accountable those who have defrauded investors from Missouri and other states.

“This is testimony to the great work and achievement of the Missouri Securities Division,” Ashcroft said.  “Our goal is to protect investors by maintaining a fair market.  The first step by any investor should be to make sure the person selling an ‘opportunity’ is licensed and registered.”

Secretary Ashcroft urges investors to call the toll-free Investor Protection Hotline at 800-721-7996 or go online to www.missouriprotectsinvestors.com for information or to file a complaint.

On May 19th at around 5 am, a semi truck slammed into a fence near Rick’s Country Shoppe in Hopkins.

On May 20th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2018 Kia Sorento driven by Andrew Lanning (47) of Wausau (WI) was southbound on I-35 three miles south of Eagleville at 2 pm when he struck a deer. A passenger, Patrice Lanning, received minor injuries.

On May 20th, Sheridan fire units put out a minor electrical fire at the former filling station.

On May 21st at 1:20 am, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a UTV driven by Brandon Huntsman (22) of Grant City was pulling a trailer on 220th Road ½ of a mile south of Worth. A passenger in the trailer, Lenny Roush (47) of Worth, reached for an item in the back of the UTV and fell over the side. He received minor injuries.

On May 21st, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Brett Popplewell (40) of Albany  in Gentry County on charges of DWI and Too Many Headlamps on Vehicle.

On May 21st, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2018 Toyota Camry driven by Talon Yellowtail (25) of Fort Thompson (SD) was southbound on I-35 five miles north of Bethany at 4 am. The Patrol says she ran off the west side of the road and struck an embankment. Subsequently, she was arrested on charges of DWI and Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident). 

On May 21st, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 1988 Yamaha driven by Randy Jackson (65) of Barnard was southbound on a private drive five miles northwest of Barnard at around 12:20 pm when he lost control on grass in the middle of the roadway, causing the vehicle to overturn. He received moderate injuries and was taken to Mosaic in Maryville.

On May 21st, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Catina Hins (36) of Hopkins alleging Domestic Assault (Felony). Bond was denied.

On May 22nd, the Missouri State Highway Patrol announced the results of a traffic sting conducted over the weekend in Clinton, Daviess, DeKalb, and Harrison Counties. There were 32 traffic citations, 60 warnings, and three motorist assists.

On May 23rd, Andrew County Sheriff’s office staff noticed a male subject down in the front public parking lot at around 1:23 pm. Staff along with ambulance personnel responded. The man passed away from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Charges listed are merely 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.

North Nodaway Sets Out Wish List for Future Facility Improvements

The North Nodaway School Board, at its regular board meeting May 17th, was presented with a wish list of future facility improvements at both the Hopkins and Pickering buildings. Among the wish list improvements were as follows:

Gym

Expand the gym for more seating; currently, the gym seats just over 400 people. Worth County and NEN, for instance, seat around 800. Other new items on the wish list include installing new flooring, new basketball hoops, additional side buckets for the gym to allow coaches to have more stations, epoxy around the bleachers and locker rooms, Mustang signage in the gym, upgrade the sound system, remove exhaust fans and louvers, add a projector and electric screen, update the locker room partitions and seating, update the filming area, purchase tarps for the gym, add an automatic American flag, and new pads.

Commons

Epoxy the floors, computerize senior composites, metal on the ceiling, upgrade trophy cabinets, new seating, and upgrade the concession area.

Little Gym

Epoxy the seating areas, new wood flooring, add volleyball standards, refinish the stage, upgrade stage lights, upgrade the sound systems, Mustang signage, new basketball hoops, and two side buckets.

Ag Shop

Attach to main building; this will improve the safety of students while they are at school. Also on the wish list was removing the tile and epoxy floors, replace the main exterior door, and purchase a plasma cutter.

First and Third Floor

Drop ceiling or clean up all of the wiring, redo the plumbing in the janitor area, update both bathrooms on the 2nd floor, epoxy all hallway areas and steps, carpet or epoxy classroom spaces, new windows, upgrade classroom lighting, update the library, new teacher desks, upgrade student furniture, new bathroom partitions, new student lockers, install designated posting areas, Mustang school pride signage, update the music room, install new efficient windows, provide more storage for music, redo epoxy in the cafeteria, create a North Nodaway Hall of Fame, cabinets in the storage rooms, new chairs and tables for graduation and alumni reunion, update to LED lights, upgrade the AC and heating units in the kitchen, look at roofing issues, replace cafeteria tables, new interior doors/rekey district, auto light switches, and overhang over the west doors.

Bus Barn

Add heating, put metal on walls or ceiling, add bathroom or office area, tire changer, rock behind the barn for mowing, add drainage trough for water runoff.

Parking

Add additional parking on the northeast of the high school, asphalt the weight room parking area, install split rail fence rather than posts.

Outdoor Area

Remove outdoor steps, move dumpsters, lights on flag poles, move sign to landing out front with landscaping.

Elementary

Replace some of the older AC units in gym, split the AC/thermostats, get hot water to all new upgraded sinks, upgrade teacher furniture, refinish the remaining hardwood floors, install new efficient windows, enclose current entrance and put up signage, build new pantry for kitchen, new entrance into old secretary office, upgrade stair life, upgrade new cafeteria area, install new white vinyl fence everywhere, move and install new playground equipment to north area and remove Project Fit equipment, create a parking lot on the east side of the building, pour new sidewalks on south side, replace roof AC systems as needed, devise plan for old schoolhouse (potential Restoration Grant), remove old boiler from the basement, move dumpster on the east side, update electrical panel in the kitchen, automatic switches.

The summer project list was presented for the board. The board voted to approve the project list as presented. Among projects for this summer:

Teacher work orders, floor scrubbing and cleaning at both Hopkins and Pickering, re-wax the gym floor at the high school, coordinate hail damage projects, reseal floors in the elementary and high school, mowing, paint ductwork for the AC in the gym, install office area and bathroom in the bus barn, reinstall existing high school sign out front, deep clean all milk coolers, add mulch to playgrounds, transition the elementary library into the cafeteria, do the bleacher installation project for the high school that was previously approved by the board, striping the sidewalk at the elementary, painting rooms in the high school, installing the preschool playground equipment that was recently obtained by a grant, put in a new door and vent hood at the elementary kitchen, start the water testing process for the Lead Out of Schools Initiative that the school is participating in, look at upgrading the sink counters and stalls in the high school bathrooms, install door access/safety film from Safety Grant, remove old high school doors and frame in a few areas, help get buses inspected prior to school, install the electrical connection for the new bleachers, and dirt work at both Hopkins and Pickering.

Things that the school is seeking bids on for board approval next month:

--Science textbooks;
--Sealing the asphalt poured last year;
--Approve camera install bid;
--Approve AC/furniture replacement in locker room;
--Purchase power washer for the new bus barn;
--Look at furnishing for the new areas such as the library and offices;
--Look at purchasing a mower trailer for the district;
--Get bid on new 10 passenger van;
--Investigate construction of an overhang above the west door;
--Add volleyball standards to the little gym.

The board voted to approve the state-mandated Comprehensive School Improvement Plan.

The board voted to reduce the agreement between the school and Ion Wave Technologies to one year and to terminate the agreement for 2024-25. Ion Wave provides special education system software to the school.

The board voted to accept the bid from Marriott's Masonry from Union Star to remove four exhaust fans from the school, install studs, insulate the area, install metal sheeting, and clean up debris for a price tag of $6,800. 

The board accepted two bids to improve the security of the school. The board voted to purchase door controllers, keys, alarms, and other security equipment from Superior Fire & Security from St. Joseph at a cost of $25,763.29. The board voted to accept the bid from Yellow Frog Graphics from St. Joseph for safety and security film for their windows for a cost of $24,236.16. The funds were paid for from the $50,000 School Security Grant that the school was recently awarded by the state.

Elementary Principal Ashley Marriott reported that K-5 enrollment was 95 with 15 in Pre-K. 

Local spelling bee winners were as follows:

3rd/4th -- Jayneigh Lawson (1st), Ady Dailey (2nd)
5th/6th -- Trenton Roberts (1st), Gannon Stricker (2nd)
7th/8th -- Halie Young
9th to 12th -- Morgan Pope

All 1st place winners competed in the 275 Conference Spelling Bee.

Kindergarten Roundup was held. Parents met with office staff to learn expectations, met with teachers, and students were able to meet with teachers and play on the playground and ride on the bus.

Elementary students got to learn about careers on April 28th. Participating businesses and organizations were the Missouri Department of Transportation, Kizer Collision & Towing, A & E Dairy, Ashlie Marriott Daycare, and Luke Ramsey Racing.

Students went to the New Nodaway Humane Society and presented them with a donation of $403.62 that they had raised throughout the year.

Third, fourth, and fifth graders went on a surprise trip to the Hopkins Park on May 4th to celebrate the end of MAP testing.

Mrs. Trautz held her final elementary spring music program. She incorporated vocal music, body percussion, and a variety of musical instruments.

The Kindergarten went on a field trip to St. Joseph and played at Timeout Entertainment and had a picnic lunch. Fourth and fifth graders went to the Steamboat Arabia Museum and Sunset Trails and Stables. First through third traders visited the Omaha Zoo on May 19th. Fifth graders visited the Middle School on the 17th to meet the teachers and learn about life as a sixth grader. Preschool held their graduation on May 18th. 

Middle School and High School Principal Roger Johnson reported that MAP testing and finals were held. Senior trip went to Branson and graduation was completed. Fine Harts Night, Senior Scholarship Night, and FFA Awards Night were held. The Art Show and music concerts were well attended and outstanding. An awards assembly was held on the 23rd, the last day of school. Middle school students helped fifth graders during step up day, when fifth graders visited their new school. 31 students went to a Savannah Bananas baseball game as their end of the year incentive award.

Superintendent Chris Turpin reported that the elementary project has all of the brick completed, drywall completed, and now has the exterior windows and doors installed. They will be starting on the metal siding soon, along with the heating and air conditioning. The middle school and high school project has the slab poured and framing started. The bus barn will have the floor poured.

The insurance company is in the process of approving a bid from Herner to fix structural damage from the hailstorm. The price tag came in at $278,170. This is just for structural damage and not the storage shed and the blue portion of the high school roof. The Escape has been approved and is on schedule to be fixed. The school is still waiting on insurance approval for the buses, truck, cafeteria van, Ford Transit, and enclosed trailer. 

Recently, a culture survey was sent out to students, staff, and parents. Areas of strength listed were high learning expectations, recognizing student achievements, the feeling of success in school, and the technology program. Areas of growth included bullying, promoting an environment of respect and self-discipline, ensuring that discipline was applied fairly, more input and feedback, and more information about services available.

The school is establishing a process to allow alumni to have the old doors that are being replaced. 

School testing scores will be available by the end of the month. 

In 1910, Jane Wilson of Grant City Finished the Race

The October 6th issue of the Worth County Times recounted this story of a woman who, like Paul, could look back on her life and see that she had finished the race:

Jane Wilson was born in Calhoun County (IL) on April 22nd, 1855 and died in Grant City on October 3rd, 1910 aged 55 years, 5 months, and 11 days.

She was married to William Flagge October 8th, 1871. To this union, five children were born, one of whom, Mrs. Hattie Worth, together with her husband and four grandchildren, survive her.

In 1882 she, with her husband, came to Missouri and settled on a farm south of Grant City, where she lived until 1897, when she moved to Grant City. She united with the Methodist Episcopal Church at the age of 11 years and has remained a faithful, consistent member all her life. In a camp meeting which she attended in 1875, she was converted and in 1885, in a meeting held at the Smithton school house, she entered into the experience of sanctification.

She was a woman of strong character and was always anxious about the advancement of her Savior’s kingdom and the uplift of her fellow-men.

Her sickness was long and severe, her suffering was intense, but her faith was triumphant. The day before she died, she gained the victory over the fear of approaching death, with apparent great joy said, “I am so happy, I am so happy.” 

The funeral services were held in the Methodist Church, October 4th, conducted by J. Jay Cokely. Interment was made in Fairview Cemetery.

Train Wreck Near Grant City on October 2nd, 1910

The recent train wreck in East Palestine (OH) has put train wrecks in the news, and Missouri has had its share. The Worth County Tribune of October 6th, 1910 reported on a train wreck that happened in Grant City on the 2nd.

The front truck of a car that was loaded with lumber went off the track; then, the hind trucks of a car loaded with sand followed, then another car loaded with apples went entirely off the rails and nearly went down an embankment. The rails were broken in several places, and the ties, which were rotted, were crushed into fragments. The car immediately behind and in front of the wrecked cars were loaded with E.C. Costin’s cattle bound for Chicago. They had to bring a wrecker up from St. Joseph to put the derailed cars back on the track.

From the 1870’s to the 1910’s, the County of Worth was Drowning in Debt

The fireworks in Washington (DC) over the debt ceiling makes this story from the October 6th, 1910 Worth County Times relevant. They note that from the 1870’s to 1910, the county was drowning in debt. 

Back in those days, counties could not raise their levies like they can today. On the other hand, counties could borrow money a lot more easily than they can today. 

In 1874, the county had more expenses than there were revenues to meet them. So on November 18th, 1874, the county authorized an issue of bonds in the sum of $12,000. Only $7,000 of those were sold and the last one paid on August 15th, 1884.

In 1882 and 1883, massive flooding washed out nearly every bridge in the county, and there was no money to replace them with. Afterwards, people came in droves to beg the county to do something to rebuild the infrastructure so that travel might resume. So the county issued new warrants, and they had to do so at discount, meaning more deficit spending for the county. More bonds were issued when the new courthouse was built.

By April 30th, 1907, the county had $32,609.71 in outstanding warrants. They were able to stop the bleeding by them. By April 30th, 1910, the amount in outstanding warrants had decreased to $20,260.39.

Obituary -- David Perry 1957-2023

David Mark Perry, age 65, passed away at Mosiac Life Care Albany (MO) on January 13th, 2023.

David was born on December 15th 1957, in Corning Iowa to Merrill and Mary Lou (Hulett) Perry. He was born into a musical and artistic family. His first exposure to the piano, as a toddler, was taking a ball peen hammer to the ivories.

In 1961, they moved to Mt. Ayr (IA) as Merrill accepted the band position at MACHS.

Dave graduated in 1976 from MACHS.

Dave was involved in Methodist Youth Fellowship and sang in the choir.

He graduated from Southwestern Community College in Creston in 1978, with an Associates in Music.

He was involved in show choir and jazz band under the direction of the great Dick Bauman.

On May 23rd,1987, he married Lisa (Groom) Perry. He returned to college at NWMSU, and graduated in 1993 with a BA in instrumental Music Education. He was involved in The Bearcat Marching Band, Woodwinds, and Jazz Band. He wrote a musical piece for the Bearcats Band that was performed at a halftime show at Arrowhead Stadium.

He also played with the Jazz Band in the French Quarter in New Orleans.

David sang and played trumpet at many weddings, including his own.

He played piano and trumpet in different church praise bands over the decades.

He also wrote and played many Christian songs.

In 1981, he began his cooking and restaurant management career, cooking for some of the fine restaurants in Iowa and Missouri. His best cooking gig, by far, was cooking for the homeless in Springfield. He served approximately 65,000 meals at The Salvation Army.

Dave’s longest teaching period was in North Nodaway, Hopkins (MO). He loved his students and they loved him.

Dave was a big kid at heart. He loved Looney Tunes, Spongebob, Star  Trek and Star Wars.

Dave loved The Lord, his family, his students, music, golf, hockey and football.

He had a huge heart and will be so missed.

He is rejoicing with his Lord and Savior.

Preceding him in death: Merrill Perry, father; Mary Lou, mother; Susan Perry, step-mom and nephew Caleb Couts. 

Surviving him are his wife of 35 years, Lisa, Grant City (MO); Sister, Lesa Nuri, Phoenix (AZ); brothers Mark Avitt, Austin (TX), Michael Avitt,Afton (IA); Mother in law Evelyn Groom, Albany (MO); Brother in law Mike Groom (Kay Manthe), Galesburg (IL) and his beloved furbabies along with 4 nephews and 4 nieces.

Memorial service is June 3rd at 11 am at Crossroads church in Grant City (MO).

Food, stories. and music following the service.

If desired, wear Chiefs, Bearcats, North Nodaway, Hockey, Star Trek or Star Wars attire.

Obituary -- Donald Coburn 1936-2023

May 16, 2023, Donald Eugene “Gene” Coburn, of Albany, MO, passed away at the age of 86. He was born in Gentry County August 25th, 1936, to Henry and Alta (Neal) Coburn.

The funeral service was held Saturday, May 20th at 10:00 AM at Roberson-Polley Chapel, Albany. Burial was in the Grandview Cemetery, Albany. There will be no scheduled family visitation. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hall Cemetery or a charity of the givers choice in care of Roberson-Polley Chapel, 403 N. Hundley, Albany, MO 64402. 

You can leave online condolences at www.robersonpolleychapel.com

Gene was drafted and served in the Army with the 120th Transportation Co. from November 1959, to March, 1962. He was stationed at Fort Meade, Maryland, most of the time in the Army. He returned to Albany and became a partner in a filling station. Gene spent his life as a trucker after that. He began as a kid tagging along with Walter Severson and purchased the business in 1964 after Walter’s health failed. He hauled loads of livestock for many years then purchased a semi and grain trailer for the rest of his career. He hauled his last two loads May 10th. He was a happy man in that truck!

Gene was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Eldon and Jim Coburn.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara “Bobbi” (Siddens) Coburn. They were married in 1964 and to this union two children were born. A son, Sam Coburn, (Jennifer) Worth,  MO, and a daughter, Becky (Ken) Warren Lawson, MO.. Gene and Bobbi have been blessed with three grandchildren, Will Franks (Cynthia) Shanghai, China, Brooke Collins and Ashley Ebel (Tony) both of Grain Valley, MO., four great grandsons Thayne, Tayten, and Traycen Collins and Jax Ebel all of Grain Valley, sisters-in-law Nell Coburn and Sheryl Coburn both of Albany, Dixie Crail, St Joe, MO, Lynn Connor, Council Bluffs, Iowa, and brother-in- law, Charles Siddens, Albany, several nieces, nephews and many friends.

Obituary -- Dwight Tomes 1948-2023

Dwight Alan Tomes, 75, Bethany, MO (formerly of Eagleville, MO) passed away Thursday, May 18, 2023, at Ignite Medical resort in North Kansas City.

Dwight was born February 1, 1948 in Bethany, MO to Pearl (Pittman) Tomes and Oldrich (Odge) Tomes. He graduated from Mt. Moriah High School in 1966, then went to Northwest Missouri State University, (formerly Missouri State College), where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education, with a minor in public speech, and psychology. He enlisted in the Army National Guard, in 1970,  where he served as Battery C Second Battalion 130th Field Artillery for 6 years. Dwight received the award as MM, M-14 Rifle.

On January 25, 1970, Dwight married Connie Louise Bennett. To that union of 47 years, 2 daughters were born; Angela Denise Provin (Aaron), and Valerie Dawn Wink (Jeremiah). Dwight is preceded in death by his parents, Odge and Pearl Tomes, brother, Don Tomes, nephew, Kyle Tomes, and great nephew, Dalton Tomes, and Bernard (Jeep) Bennett. Dwight is survived by his daughters, Angie and Valerie, grandchildren, Michael White, Bryan White (Heather), Megan Branham (Jesse), Samson Hoofer, and great-granddaughter, Caiden White. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Carol (Tomes) Buntin, nephew, Kenny Tomes, nieces, Karla Simon (Don), Linda Tomes, and great nephews, Alex, Adam, and Anthony.

Dwight always had a love of music and played in numerous bands from the age of 14. He passed his musical talent on to his children, and grandchildren. He enjoyed entertaining, and his role on the radio at KAAN in Bethany, MO. He was always happy to visit for an extended length, playing golf, the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs. His greatest love was for his family, enjoying vacations such as camping, skiing, and beach trips. He was there for all of his children and grandchildren, and enjoyed teaching them the things he loved. He had a strong faith and was a member of Johnson County Christian Church, Overland Park, KS  where he was baptized, and Blythedale Christian Church, Blythedale, MO, where enjoyed fellowship, music, and a common faith in the Lord.  His love, guidance, teaching, and memories will be forever cherished by all.

Funeral Services were held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, May 22 at Roberson Funeral Home, Bethany, MO. Burial with Military Rites  followed in Bohemian Cemetery, Cainsville, MO. The family received friends from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Bohemian Cemetery in care of Roberson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 46, Bethany, MO 64424. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com

Obituary -- Helen Hunt 1936-2023

Helen Louise Sickels Hunt was born October 14, 1936, to Duane E. Sickels and Leta Mae Jones Sickels in a farmhouse just across the Iowa state line into Missouri. She attended various schools during her school years starting in Mount Ayr and finishing her high school education in Mount Ayr in May of 1955.

Helen worked in Des Moines for 5 months for Bell Telephone Company. She married Maurice “Jake” Hunt February 19, 1956. David Lee was born October 6, 1956, and a little over a year later Randy Lynn was born on November 29, 1957. They lived on a farm southwest of Redding for 41 years and moved to Mount Ayr in the fall of 1999. David bought the farm and had it until he passed away in February 2022.

Helen started working at the Citizens Bank in Grant City, Missouri in May of 1966 and worked there for 19 ½ Years. She worked at First State Bank for 2 years and the Hawkeye Bank for 6 years.

Helen started bowling in the fall of 1962 and bowled until 2006. At various times she was League President, Vice president, Assistant Vice President or President.

Helen passed away on May 16, 2023. 

She is survived by son Randy and wife Lori; 2 grandchildren Douglas James Hunt and Amanda Lynn (Micheal) Curphey; 4 great grandchildren Connor, Carson, Corbon, and Hayley; sisters Leta Ann McGrevey and Karen Nancy Bollerman; their children Curt (Ann) Duffield, Jason (Jill) Duffield, Kista Ann (Mark) Huffman; many nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband Jake in 2013 and son David in 2022; brother-in-law Dan McGrevey.

Memorials are to Wounded Warrior Project.

Tiger Girls See Two Events Win State Titles; Tyson Gibson Wins for Shamrocks

Worth County’s boys had won several meets along the way this year, including districts. But it was the girls who brought home two state titles in the Pole Vault and the 4x100, finishing seventh in state. 

East Atchison and Drexel were tied at 60 going into the final event, the 4x400, with East Atchison needing to avoid disqualification, since the top eight events score. The Wolves won the event outright with 70 points. Drexel had 60, Platte Valley 39, Rock Port 34, Richland 30, Brunswick 29, Worth County 28.5, DeKalb 28, Calvary Lutheran 24, Pattonsburg 22, Appleton City 21, Jamestown 21, Wellsville 21, Dora 20, North Shelby 19, Atlanta 18, Silex 15.5, Stoutland 15, Wellington-Napoleon 12, Polo 12, Liberal 12, Concordia 11, Northeast (Cairo) 10.5, Nodaway Valley 10, Mound City 10, Crane 10, Humansville 9, Vienna 9, Sheldon 9, Newtown-Harris 8, Chadwick 7, St. Joseph Christian 6, Van Buren 6, Santa Fe 6, Albany 6, Stanberry 6, Gilman City 5, Canton 5, King City 5, St. Elizabeth 5, Glasgow 5, South Holt 4, La Plata 4, Northwestern (Mendon) 4, Sacred Heart 3, McAuley Catholic 3, Novinger 2, North Andrew 2, Marquand-Zion 2, Meadville 2, Princeton 2, Academie Lafayette 1.5, and Clopton 1.

The first Tiger team to win state was the 4x100 team of Hailey Adwell, Emma Spencer, Rayleigh Smith, and Brooklyn Richardson. They got a personal best in winning the prelims with a time of 50.99. That extended the school record that they broke in sectionals. The finals were a rematch of the sectional match between Worth County and Drexel, and the Tigers came away victorious with a time of 51.36 to 51.71. Everybody but Adwell will return next year.

The other winner was Eva Engel, who won her duel with Ava Barnes (Mound City). They left the rest of the field far behind, with the third place finisher getting 9’2¼”. Barnes missed an attempt at 2.66 meters, while Engel missed her first try at 3.15 meters. But it was the mark at 10’6¾” which decided the event. Eva cleared it on her first try, while Barnes took until her third try to clear it. Neither one could clear the next barrier, which meant Eva Engel won the Pole Vault on tiebreaks over Barnes. Both will return next year.

In other results for the girls, Emma Spencer was fourth in the 100 with a time of 13.26. Her goal next year will be to break the 12.94 barrier, which will make her a favorite to win state next year.

Riley Ridge was tied for seventh in the High Jump with a height of 4’11”. Ali Brown was seventh in the Javelin with a throw of 117’9”.

It was a Shamrock who stole the show on the boys side as Tyson Gibson won state in the Triple Jump, getting a jump of 42’11¾”. He and Landon Gilliland (Atlanta) dueled throughout the event, with both getting their best jump on their next to last try. Gilliland was second with a jump of 42’2”. Justin Miller of Platte Valley was third with a jump of 41’9¾”. Miller will be a favorite in the event next year.

There were no clear favorites in the boys championship like there were on the girls side. Hayti and Hermitage tied for the title with 42 points. Crystal City had 33, King City 32, Nodaway Valley 28, Princeton 28, Green City 26, Newtown-Harris 26, Rich Hill 25, Marion C. Early 24, Dora 24, Braymer 21, Mound City 18, Albany 17, Tina-Avalon 16, Wellington-Napoleon 15, Polo 14, Gilman City 14, Thomas Jefferson Independent 14, East Atchison 14, Tri-County 13, North Andrew 13, Liberal 12, Sacred Heart 11, Concordia 11, Ballard 11, Worth County 10, St. Elizabeth 10, Santa Fe 10, North Harrison 10, Northeast (Cairo) 9.5, Atlanta 8, Jamestown 8, Winona 8, Humansville 8, Billings 7, Scott County Central 7, Crane 6.5, Van Buren 6, Platte Valley 6, Norwood 6, Southwest Livingston 6, St. Paul Lutheran 5, Paris 5, Slater 5, Wellsville 4.5, Miami (Amoret) 4, Leeton 4, Orrick 4, Sweet Springs 4, Stewartsville/Osborn 3.5, Vienna 3, Macks Creek 3, Otterville 3, Weaubleau 3, St. Vincent 3, Brunswick 3, Brashear 3, Glasgow 3, Stanberry 2, Climax Springs 2, Silex 2, Appleton City 1, and Bell City 1.

For Worth County, Levi Cassavaugh was fifth in the 400 with a time of 52.58. The 4x200 team got a personal best in the prelims with a time of 1:34.10 and finished fifth in the finals with a time of 1:34.38. 

Jase Latham was seventh in the Shot Put with a throw of 46’4”. Elias Alarcon got a personal best with a throw of 44’10¼”, but it turned out to be just out of the money as he finished 9th. 

Grant City Council Minutes for May 17th, 2023

Unofficial Minutes

A regular meeting was held May 17, 2023 at City Hall at 6:30 p.m.

Mayor- Debbie Roach Alderman Present: Kevin Kobbe – Bruce Downing – Catherine Runde – Lenny Campbell 

City Clerk: Farrah Richey – Cecelia Burbach

Gas Superintendent: Carl Staton

City Administrator: Meggan Brown

Citizens: Tyson Troutwine, Ryan Fletchall, Emily Wicoff, Kim Milward, Riley Drury

Minutes:  Catherine Runde made motion to approve the minutes for the April 22, 2023 meeting, Kevin Kobbe seconded, motion carried.

List of Bills/Supplies:  Lenny Campbell made motion to approve the list of bills/supplies for month end   April 22, 2023 and May 17, 2023, Kevin Kobbe seconded, motion carried.    

Emily Wicoff: Emily Wicoff from Snyder & Associates gave and up date on the waste water project.  MoDNR approved the PER and addendum for ARPA funding.  This month they will be finalizing the contract addendum, finishing up MoDNR paperwork and the detailed design.  She also presented a new funding program for lead service line inventory, lead line, replacement plan, and lead line service line replacement.  Meggan will fill out the application and get it submitted by May 31, 2023 deadline.  

Kim Mildward: Kim Mildward from The Northwest Missouri Regional Council of Governments came to discuss the process of updating the Grant City Strategic Plan that was last revised in 2019. She went through the progress report with the council to rate each goal and objective.  Next step is to have a meeting to review the Mission and Vision Statements and conduct SWOC (strengths, weaknesses, opportunity challenges) Analysis. Potential meeting dates are June 20, 27, and 29 at City Hall.  The second set of meeting will be small group meetings to work on goals and objectives based on the SWOC analysis. Potential meeting date are July 20, 21, 24, and 25. 

Resolution for verification of records: Catherine Runde made a motion to pass the resolution for verification of records, Lenny Campbell seconded, motion carried.

Bill 3731 Ordinance #51723: Bill has been posted at city hall and was tabled until June 21, 2023 meeting.

Sick Leave: Council discussed how sick leave should be able to be used in case of illness of family members since the city is a small enough business that FMLA does not apply.  An Addendum will be added to the sick leave policy to follow the FMLA guidelines.

Potential Audit Firms: An ad will be placed in the newspaper for bids for audit companies, and a copy of the ad will be sent to the list of potential auditors the were received from Dannen Merrill.

Dog Pound: There are currently two dogs in the pound, Nodaway County Humane Society does not have room for either one.  There are people interested in adopting the dogs by paying the $50 fee. The council agreed to let the citizens pay the $50 for the dogs so that they will have homes. Going forward a waiver will be signed by any citizen who wants to adopt a dog out of the pound relieving the city from any liability.

City Clerk Job Description: Tabled until June 21, 2023 meeting.

Zoning Adjustment: Council discussed Zoning Regulations Article V, Appeals Section 405.230. Procedures for Appeals and Variances, and Section 405.280 Amendments and Changes to determine appropriate way to process with an application for variance.  Meggan is going to check with the city attorney to see if the city council can act as the planning and zoning committee or another group of people need to be recruited in order to proceed with the hearing.

Meggan Brown:  New picnic tables and a recycling bin will be purchased for the park once funds are received. She presented Bill No. 51523 Ordinance No. 3732. Bill will be posted at City Hall and decided June 21, 2023 council meeting. Seagull Environmental Technology will start phase two and bore holes to take soil samples 5-18-23 and report back. She discussed going to the Brownfield Conference in July. Meggan asked the council about contacting citizens to try and start the revitalization committee back up to help get rid of buildings that need to be taken down. Finally, She discussed next steps in safely removing the Yetter Building; needs to be tested for asbestos and inspected by a building inspector.

 Carl: Carl Staton  received one bid from Approved Paving LLC for chip seal for streets, he and Tyson have mapped out what street will be treated this summer.  Going to get more bids to compare prices. He reported the pool has been patched and filled. He has ordered cold mix to fill in pot holes. He ordered gas meters, but they are not in yet. He met with Brock last week to discuss the High Street water line, needs to get an easement to cross a property, no start date has been set. He has the materials to treat the pool park road for dust control. Lastly, he discussed the state gas inspection that will be May 30-31.

Water/Sewer: Ryan passed his sewer test. Discussed needing a mud motor for lagoon. He is going to get estimates to bring to the next meeting.

Building Permits:  Amanda and Joe Hughes want to build a house. Permit is pending Carl’s inspection of the site.

Gas/Parks & Recreation/Streets:  nothing

Clerks Report:  Farrah Richey gave new council members information on a MEC webinar, she discussed the Summer program called Tiger Community Connect hosted by the Partnership Library.  Council agreed to send what we have on hand to give out for door prized.

Topics of Interest: Ed Cleveland is going to build a box for the City Hall sign.  Council asked Clerk Farrah Richey to send agendas out to council members via email or picture text for review three days prior to the meeting.

At 9:09 pm Lenny Campbell made motion to end regular meeting to enter closed session Bruce Downing seconded, motion carried.    

North Harrison Names Tabrey Kimbrough Special Education Director

The North Harrison Board, at their regular board meeting May 17th, voted to approve an amended contract with Tabrey Kimbrough that will include the duties of Special Education Director.

The school is working on a proposed budget. It is a deficit budget of $267,056.43, which is a worst-case scenario budget. The legislature passed a bill fully funding the $38,000 minimum salary requirement for the following school year. This year, it was a 70-30 split. 

Enrollment for grades 7-12 was 94. There were 20 in seventh grade, 16 in eighth grade, 13 freshmen, 12 sophomores, 19 juniors, and 14 seniors. Testing was finishing up and a staff appreciation dinner was held. 

Among various activities in the Elementary:

Preschool -- The preschool class completed two chapter book read-alouds. Every preschooler has shown growth this year.

First Grade -- First graders went to Pump It Up in Urbandale to celebrate the end of the school year.

Third Grade -- Third graders were reading "The BFG" by Roald Dahl and plan to watch the movie soon. They planted flowers for Mother's Day.

Library -- Among different authors studied included Eric Carle, Dr. Seuss, Marc Brown, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Andrew Clements, and C.S. Lewis. Some classes were able to watch movies that correlated to the book they read in class.

Health & PE -- 5th graders completed the Physical Fitness Test that is required by the state. Fourth and sixth graders did it as well. All classes completed a three week unit of wiffle ball and were able to play both indoors and outdoors.

There were 127 enrolled from preschool to sixth grade. This includes 26 for preschool, 11 for Kindergarten, 10 for first grade, 13 for second grade, 17 for third grade, 15 for fourth grade, 13 for fifth grade, and 17 for sixth grade.

Summer tutoring plans are being created to provide additional instructional support for students.

Grassroots put together an Agriculture Education program for the students. Coulson Hartschen presented to his peers.

A staff appreciation week was held; there were daily games featuring the staff and school. There were field trips to Arrowhead, Crowder State Park, Science Center, Skating and Movie Theater, and Pump it Up. The North Harrison PTO paid for the field trips. 

North Nodaway Accepts Five Resignations, Hires Heather Townsend as Elementary Principal

The North Nodaway School Board, at their regular meeting Wednesday, voted to accept the resignations of five personnel. They were Kinser Corbett as the K-12 PE Teacher, Summer Beaty as the High School Math Teacher, Emily Limback as the Business/FACS Teacher, Ashley Marriott as the Elementary Principal, and Leah Koger as the 1st Grade Teacher. 

The board voted to employ Heather Townsend as the Elementary Principal for the 2023-24 and the 2024-25 school year with a salary of $67,549 and a special education coordinator salary of $2,451. The board voted to raise Roger Johnson's Middle School & High School Principal's Salary to $75,572 for the 2023-24 school year. 

The board voted to employ Nathan Schoonover as the Business Teacher and the FBLA Sponsor. Jess Gremain became the K-12 PE Teacher, the Junior High Basketball Assistant, and Junior High Head Track Coach. Cameron Jones was named the Assistant Track Coach. Danielle Sutton was named the Assistant Co-Volleyball Coach. Cindy Martin was named a Senior Class Sponsor and Emily Bix a Junior Class Sponsor for the upcoming school year.

Worth County Elementary 4th Quarter Perfect Attendance & Honor Rolls

PERFECT ATTENDANCE FOR SCHOOL YEAR

Kyah Joslin (3rd Grade), Brooklyn Smith (5th Grade).

PERFECT ATTENDANCE FOR 4TH QUARTER

Kindergarten: Kyrie Brown, Cooper Riley, Sam Clarkson, Nolan Gilland, Sophia Hern, Ian Mullock, Baylor Sagel, Samantha Russell, Iyana Fletchall, Jaxon Cain, Joseph O'Grady, Mason Steele.

First Grade: Kruz Adams, Kellan Dannar, Cora Davidson.

Second Grade: Bristol Benson, Maverick Schultz, Emerlee Clarkson, Riggin Smyser, Sophia Combs, Iris Thomas, Emery Pickering, Luke Riley.

Third Grade: Desmond Dannar, Hadley Downing, Chase Davidson, Kyah Joslin, Case Downing, Coy Pickering.

Fourth Grade: Kaeslyn Briner, Aria Oberhauser, Mason Gray, Audra Spainhower, Jace Mullock, Madison Strawhacker.

Fifth Grade: Silas Brown, Jakob Herbert, Hudson Cameron, Paige Hubbard, Kaydence Downing, Lane Pickering, Jarrett Gilland, Brooklyn Smith, Cole Hardy.

Sixth Grade: Conner Chapman, Kassidy Joslin, Jordan Dannar, Brooke Monticue, Tucker Fletchall, Kennedy Murphy, Brock Healy.

HONOR ROLLS FOR 4TH QUARTER

High Honor Roll All Four Quarters: Kaydence Downing, Kinley Fletchall, Emmett Frisch, Jane Hawk, Gabbey Maudlin.

HIGH HONOR ROLL

4th Grade: Mitchell Baca, Jace Mullock, Kinley Fletchall, Aria Oberhauser, Emmett Frisch, Luca Sagel, Renae Gladstone, Alexis Snead, Gabbey Maudlin, Madison Strawhacker.

5th Grade: Hudson Cameron, Jane Hawk, Heather Deardorff, Jakob Herbert, Kaydence Downing, Brecklyn Rush, Jarrett Gilland, Hadley Rush.

6th Grade: Jordan Dannar, Kennedy Murphy, Kynlee Steele.

REGULAR HONOR ROLL

4th Grade: Tatum Allee, Mason Moser, Kaeslyn Briner, Audra Spainhower, Mason Gray, David Wideman.

5th Grade: Briella Benson, Nataleigh Moser, Zaiden Chipps, Catelynn Mower, Cole Hardy, Brooklyn Smith, Weston Hill, Gunnar Smith, Paige Hubbard, Memphis Ware.

6th Grade: Bella Blankenship, Kassidy Joslin, Tucker Fletchall, Brooke Monticue, Camden Gray, Gracie Thurman, Brock Healy, Owyn Wuillay. 

Worth County School Gets 30 of 30 Points on School Improvement Plan

The Worth County School Board received a report on the Comprehensive School Improvement Plan that is periodically required by the state. They got 30 out of a possible 30 points on the report. 

Elementary Principal Chuck Borey reported that the K-3 went to the Fun Run in St. Joseph and the 4-6 went to the Rush Funplex in Kansas City. A great time was had by all.

Grandparents Day was held at the Elementary School. Grandparents got to get their pictures taken with their kids. 

Several records were broken at the Elementary Track Day. Brooklyn Smith broke seven different records in one day, the most records that were ever broken. One record she broke had stood for 39 years. Brooklyn broke the following records for fifth graders:

--Long Jump, 12'10", beat the record held by Morgan Beagle in 2014 with a jump of 12 feet;

--Shot Put, 28'3", beat the record held by Kaitlyn Davidson in 2008 by over 6 1/2 feet. Kaitlyn threw for 21'8 1/2". 

--High Jump, 4'1", beat the record held by Tera Henry (1994), Samantha Thorburn (2012), and Grace McElvain (2012), who all jumped four feet.

--Softball Throw, 110'8", beating the record held by April Miller in 1996 with a throw of 110'5";

--100 Meter Dash, 14.69, beating the record held by Tanya Hardy in 1984 with a time of 14.80;

--200 Meter Dash, 30.97, beating the record set last year by Brianna Riley with a time of 33.38;

--400 Meter Dash, 1:15.14, beating the record set by Jill Hardy in 2014 with a time of 1:19.03.

Other records broken were as follows:

--5th Grader Hadley Rush broke the 800 meter dash record for fifth graders with a time of 3:27.87. The previous record holder was Megan Tracy, who had a time of 3:29.86.

--5th Grader Memphis Ware had a jump of 4'2" in the High Jump, beating Hunter Simmons' jump of 4'1" set in 2013;

--5th Grader Hudson Cameron broke Adam Pollard's record in the Long Jump set in 2000. Hudson had a jump of 12'8", while Pollard had a jump of 12'5 1/2". 

--4th Grader Kinley Fletchall tied the High Jump record with a jump of 3'7".

--6th Grader Jordan Dannar broke the 400 meter dash record with a time of 1:06.88. The previous recordholders were Brandon Walker (2000) and Brevyn Ross (2010), both with times of 1:07.

There were 12 records total that were broken, 10 of which were set by fifth graders.

Worth County recently marked Teacher Appreciation Week. To start off the week, people brought in lunch for the teachers, including pulled pork, sliced beef, cheesy potatoes, cole slaw, pasta salad, baked beans, macaroni and corn casserole, and several desserts. Signs were made and placed out front for all the elementary teachers.

The board voted to cover employees health insurance for up to $500 a month or $6,000 per year. This applies to all employees working 20 hours or more per week. Health insurance rates went up 1.9% this year.

The board made several adjustments on substitute rates. Substitute teacher pay (requires sub certificate) went from $85.75 per day to $91. Substitute bus driver pay (requires license) went from $62.60 per day to $65 per day. Substitute custodians went from $10 per hour to $11 per hour. Substitute cooks went from $10 per hour to $11 per hour. Substitute secretaries went from $10.50 per hour to $11.50 per hour.

As part of the ESSER III funding that the district received, the school is able to offer more tutoring and professional development hours. A minimum of 20% must be spent to address students' academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs due to the effects of loss of instructional time. The board set the para tutoring learning loss rate at $15 per hour.

The board voted to accept the bid from Approved Paving to do asphalt work around the school for a price tag of $106,450. The school last did asphalt work in 2016, and since then, the parking lots have shown wear and tear. There will be asphalt everywhere except the large portion of the east parking lot. The paved roadway around the east will be wider, but won't cover the lot completely. The project will include milling and resurfacing the west parking lot, sealcoating and striping the east parking lot and putting in new asphalt in the east parking lot along with widening the roadway.

Effective January 1st, 2019, newly hired speech language pathologists in public schools do not fall under specific teacher requirements in Missouri. State licensure by the Missouri Department of Professional Registration is typically required. The board accepted the proposal from Sydney McQuinn to perform Speech Language Pathologist services for the 2023-2024 school year.

The board approved a revised school calendar for the 2023-2024 school year. School will start on August 22nd. Thanksgiving Break will be November 22nd to 24th. Christmas Break will be from December 22nd to January 8th. Spring Break will be from March 28th to April 1st. Commencement will be May 12th and the last day of school will be May 16th. The school year will consist of 167 days of student attendance. Dates are tentative and are subject to makeup days due to school cancellations. 

Courthouse News for May 17th, 2023

On May 8th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2005 Jeep Liberty driven by Tanya Butler (46) of Trenton was southbound on East 220th Avenue four miles north of Bethany when she failed to negotiate a curve, traveled off the right side, and struck a ditch. She received serious injuries and was taken to Harrison County Community Hospital.

On May 9th, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department made the following Facebook post about a Facebook Marketplace scam that was making the rounds:

Harrison County Residents, be aware of a Facebook Marketplace scam that is currently going around.  When purchasing from an individual on Marketplace, inspect the items before providing payment.  With the current scams the sellers are asking for a deposit by electronic means (Venmo or PayPal) then terminating contact with the buyer taking the deposit. Use caution when purchasing items and using electronic payment.  

We are currently investigating several scams in hopes that the individuals can be identified and charged criminally. 

On May 9th, Korey Miller (34) of Chicago was arrested in Harrison County on an Out of State Felony Warrant.

On May 9th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Dylan Krzyzopolski (32) of Maryville alleging Domestic Assault (Felony), Assault (Felony), Resisting Arrest, and Property Damage. Bond was set at $15,000 with defendant allowed to post 10% cash.

On May 9th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Richard Merritt (64) of Mount Ayr on a charge of DWI. Bond was set at $2,000, cash or corporate surety. 

On May 10th, Andrew Freeman (37) of Clarksville (TN) was arrested in Nodaway County on a Felony Warrant from the State of Kentucky.

On May 10th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Lacy Miller (37) of Maryville alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Felony). Bond was set at $20,000 signature bond.

On May 10th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Jennifer Munoz (40) of Maryville alleging 3 counts Violation of Protection Order. Bond was denied.

On May 10th, Nodaway County Assistant Prosecutor Amy Cloud filed charges against Devan Pulliam (31) of Burlington Junction alleging 2 counts Driving While Revoked, 2 counts Speeding, Failure to Register, Vision Reducing Material on Window, and No Insurance.

On May 10th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Berjoneana Wallace (44) of Robbinsdale (MN) alleging Speeding (26+ mph over) and No Valid License.

On May 10th, the Bethany Republican-Clipper reported that the Missouri Supreme Court appointed Matthew Krohn of Princeton as Interim Circuit Judge for the 3rd Judicial Circuit. Mr. Krohn was appointed following the death of Judge Tom Alley, who died on April 6th. The appointment will be valid until Governor Mike Parson appoints a permanent replacement. Mr. Krohn previously served as the Associate Circuit Judge of Mercer County.

On May 10th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Jason Perkins (22) of Ridgeway alleging Resisting Arrest (Felony), No Valid License (Felony), and Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident). Bond was set at $30,000, cash only.

On May 10th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against James Whitt (27) of Stanberry alleging two counts Domestic Assault (Felony) and two counts Kidnapping.(Felony). Bond was set at $20,000, cash or corporate surety.

On May 10th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Stacy Morris (39) of Fairfax alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony).

On May 11th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Faith Marshall (37) of New Market alleging Stealing.

On May 11th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Logan Elliott (17) of Maryville alleging Careless & Imprudent Driving, Failure to Obey Traffic Control Device, No Valid License, and No Headlights.

On May 12th, Cody Copeland (30) of Maryville was arrested in Nodaway County on a state of Iowa Felony Warrant.

On May 12th, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department reported that they, the Bethany Police Department, and the FBI executed a search warrant on a home in Bethany. The Bethany Police Department had been contacted by the FBI regarding a person of interest in a child pornography investigation which had originated in Kansas. The person of interest was believed to be living in Bethany. Electronic items were seized by the FBI. 

On May 12th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Robert Sweiger (41) of Winston in Harrison County on a charge of No Seat Belt and a Clinton County Warrant for Failure to Appear.

On May 14th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2012 Polaris Ranger driven by Antonio Tercero (19) of Bethany was northbound on private property three miles south of Bethany. He attempted to make a left turn left and overturned. Three passengers, a 16 year old girl, a 15 year old girl, and a 13 year old boy, received minor injuries. Tercero was not injured. 

On May 15th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Talia Nupp (35) of Ridgeway alleging No Valid License (Felony). 

On May 15th, Jeffrey Gautreaux (44) of Ollie (IA) was arrested in Nodaway County on a Felony Warrant from the State of Iowa.

On May 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Lane Reidlinger (26) of Clyde alleging DWI (Felony) and Driving While Revoked.

On May 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Thomas Howard (29) of Parnell alleging that their dog bit a person or domestic animal, resulting in serious injury.

Charges listed are merely 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.

Bluejay Baseball Ousted by Warriors 6-1

Northeast Nodaway has had an up and down baseball season this year. They entered a three game losing skid to end the regular season to North Platte, East Buchanan, and Gilman City. Sometimes, when coming out of a slump, teams have to win ugly, and Northeast did so against Hamilton in the first round of districts. The game was moved from Maysville to Mid-Buchanan due to rain; many of the Bluejays had never played on turf and it showed as they fell behind 7-3 in the Hamilton game. But they rallied to win in nine innings 9-8, scoring two in the bottom of the ninth after Hamilton had scored one in the top of the inning.

Wet field conditions at Maysville delayed the game for two more nights, but the Bluejays finally got their game with Albany in Wednesday. Top seeded Maysville easily beat East Atchison 10-0 in five innings in the first game, which put NEN and Albany in a dilemma -- start your best pitcher and improve your chances of reaching the finals, but not have him available for Maysville, or start someone else and hope you won't need them?

Both teams elected to try to save their best pitchers for Maysville, with NEN sending Drew Dack to the mound and Albany sending Chase Cline. But three batters in, it was obvious it was not Drew's night as he walked all three after long battles, forcing the Bluejays to bring in Dylan McIntyre instead of saving him up for Maysville. Truman Runnels promptly greeted him with a base hit to score two. Kemper Cline was out trying to steal third, but an error and two more walks forced in another run to put Albany up 3-0 after one.

Meanwhile, Chase Cline was mowing Bluejay batters down right and left. Albany added to their lead in the second when Jerrid Bunten's pop fly dropped in center for a base hit, he took second on a wild pitch, and Kemper Cline reached on an error when shortstop Drew Dack hurried a throw trying to get the speedy Cline out. That made it 4-0. 

The Bluejays couldn't even get to Chase Cline until the third, when Boston Adwell led off the inning with a walk. Jace Cameron and Sawyer Thurman struck out. Dylan McIntyre hit a grounder to short and sold himself out trying to beat out the throw, but was out on a close play, scraping his non-throwing arm on the play. He stayed in the game.

Northeast prevented any further damage in the third when Dylan McIntyre picked off Braden Landuyt after plunking him to start the inning. Sam Miller gave one a long right in right, but Carter Chapman came racing over to grab it in foul territory for another out, and McIntyre froze Michael Bourland for the third out.

Daulton Worrell singled to start the Warrior fourth. Jerrid Bunten struck out, but an errant pickoff throw by catcher Grant McIntyre put Worrell on second. Northeast nearly got out of the inning as McIntyre froze one of the top hitters in the area in Kemper Cline, but Truman Runnels picked up Cline with a base hit to make it 5-0.

Boston Adwell finally got to Chase Cline with Northeast's first hit with a double into the left field corner with one out in the Bluejay fifth. Jace Cameron singled him to third and Sawyer Thurman forced Cameron at second as Boston scored to cut it to 5-1. Dylan McIntyre walked to keep the inning going, but Warrior shortstop Jerrid Bunten snagged Drew Dack's pop fly behind second that looked like it was going to drop in for the third out.

Albany tried to get the run back in their half of the fifth when Kole Emerson walked to lead off and stole second. Catcher Grant McIntyre's throw got away into center field, but center fielder Tyler New gunned down Emerson at third, the first of several outstanding defensive plays New made. In the sixth, Jerrid Bunten hit a drive into right. Carter Chapman came after it on the dead run, but it popped out of his glove and Bunten wound up at second. The inning would have been worse, but New caught towering fly balls from Kemper Cline and Truman Runnels to get to two outs. But then Chase Cline and Kole Emerson walked to load the bases. Braden Landuyt singled to left to score one and make it 6-1. But Tyler New gunned down Chase Cline trying to score as well to get the Bluejays out of the inning.

Jace Cameron got into a long battle with reliever Landuyt to start the seventh for Northeast. After a previous pitch which would have been strike three barely missed. Jace got plunked. Sawyer Thurman hit a high chopper, but Landuyt fielded it cleanly and got Thurman out at first, and Dylan McIntyre struck out. Drew Dack got plunked to keep the season going, but Grant McIntyre's tricky pop fly in shallow right was run down by second baseman Jerrid Bunten (who moved to second when Landuyt came to pitch in the 6th) for the final out.

The game was the last one for longtime coach Vance Proffitt as well as two seniors, Dylan McIntyre and Boston Adwell. 

Tiger Girls 4x100 Breaks School Record at Sectional Meet

Worth County qualified several athletes from both the boys and the girls side at sectionals Saturday. The highlight was the girls 4x100 breaking the school record and winning to make it to state.

For the girls, Emma Spencer got second in the 100 with a personal best 12.96. She has improved from 14.20 at Rock Port to 12.96 Saturday. Brooklyn Richardson was fifth with a time of 13.33. She took almost a second off her time and will return as well. Emma Spencer had trailed Kayley Hauber (Platte Valley) all year, but finally finished past her and Claire Staley (King City).

The 4x100 team of Hailey Adwell, Brooklyn Richardson, Rayleigh Smith, and Emma Spencer beat Drexel in a photo finish with Worth County getting a school record time of 51.22 while Drexel got a time of 51.28. 

Riley Ridge qualified in the High Jump with a height of 4’11”. That was good enough for third place. Eva Engel qualified for state in the Pole Vault with a height of 10’6¼”. Ali Brown qualified in the Javelin with a throw of 115’9”, good enough for second. 

For the boys, Levi Cassavaugh did all he could in the 400, taking a second off his time, but finished second to Trotter Hughes (Wellington-Napoleon) with a time of 51.83. John Galanakis narrowly missed out in the 110 Hurdles, finishing fifth with a time of 16.88. He took over two seconds off his time over the course of the year. Lucas Frisch also got edged out and took fifth; however, he got a personal best in the 300 Hurdles with a time of 44.13. He improved by five seconds from the start of the year. He will return; he is only a freshman.

The 4x100 team of Levi Cassavaugh, Brayden Stevens, John Galanakis, and Lucas Frisch was fifth with a time of 46.02. They got their best time all year, but got edged out by two tenths of a second. They improved by two seconds over the course of the year.

The 4x200 team of Tyler New, John Galanakis, Landon Moser, and Levi Cassavaugh made it, getting third with a personal best time of 1:34.81. That was two seconds better than their previous best time and 12+ seconds better than at the start of the year.

The 4x400 team of Lucas Frisch, Ethan Frese, Tyler New, and Levi Cassavaugh did all they could, knocking almost six seconds off their time. But it wasn’t enough as they finished fifth and did not qualify; they were .14 of a second short. They got a time of 3:38.85, which was 31 seconds better than their time at the start of the year.

Landon Moser did all he could, getting a personal best jump of 39’8½” in the Triple Jump, but it was just under two feet short of qualifying as he got sixth place.

The Tigers qualified two in the Shot Put. Jase Latham won the Shot Put with a throw of 45’11¼”. And Elias Alarcon got a personal best and fourth place with a throw of 42’7½”. 

Elias Alarcon came up short in the Discus, finishing fifth with a throw of 106’9”. Tyler New was seventh in the Javelin with a throw of 121’3”. 

NEN

Baylie Busby qualified for state with a fourth place finish of 4’10¼”. With that, she broke the school record held jointly by herself and Michelle Schulte. 

North Nodaway

Mason Richardson got a personal best in the Long Jump and qualified for state, getting a third place jump of 19’10¾”. 

North Harrison

Competing at South Shelby, Tyson Gibson missed out on the High Jump, finishing seventh with a height of 5’7¾”. But he won outright in the Triple Jump with a jump of 43’3¾” to qualify for state.

Paige Sherer, Drew Welch Receive High Honors

26 Worth County students graduated from Worth County for the last time Sunday. Out of them, 17 graduated with either honors or with highest honors. Paige Sherer was named Valedictorian and Drew Welch Salutatorian. 

Graduating Sunday were Lance Abplanalp, Hailey Adwell, Ali Brown, Liz Brown, Colt Cameron, Levi Cassavaugh, Lanie Cousatte, Wyatt Craven, A.J. Drury, Dillon Farmer, John Galanakis, Dillan Gavigan, ZeeAnna Gladstone, Braxton Hightshoe, Andrew Howard, Cash Jacobs, Jase Latham, Claire McElvain, Tucker Owens, Tanner Ridge, Damian Roush, Maddie Runde, Taylor Sanders, Caydee Sherer, Paige Sherer, and Drew Welch.

Senior Class Officers were Ali Brown (President), Levi Cassavaugh (Vice President), Claire McElvain (Secretary), and Lance Abplanalp (Treasurer). Student Council Representatives were Lanie Cousatte and Cash Jacobs, Class sponsors were Nanci Drury and Cree Beverlin. 

The class motto was, “The cure for senioritis is graduation.” The class color was Baby Blue. The class flower was the White Rose. The Class Song was, “Where did All the Time Go,” by Dr. Dog.

Graduating with honors were Lance Abplanalp, Hailey Adwell, Lanie Cousatte, John Galanakis, Dillan Gavigan, Braxton Hightshoe, Jase Latham, Claire McElvain, Tucker Owens, Tanner Ridge, and Maddie Runde. Graduating with highest honors were Ali Brown, Levi Cassavaugh, Taylor Sanders, Caydee Sherer, Paige Sherer, and Drew Welch.

Ali Brown, Senior Class President, introduced teacher Kelley Ross, who spoke to the class. Ross said that she first met the current Class of 2023 in fifth grade, and they were a good group of kids to work with. There was the time that Jace Latham brought in a tomato worm, but unfortunately, it died the next day. They then proceeded to dissect it. 

Ross had them for five different years in science. As speaker, she wanted to give them one last lesson. Every object has a center of gravity. If you put plants into a pot wrong, eventually, the weight of the plant will bring the pot crashing down. A portable crane has a wide center of gravity so that it will not fall down. She said the whole purpose of school was to give them a wide base of gravity so that they could withstand life’s challenges. 

She said that whatever they wanted to pursue, whether it was ag, computer science, entrepreneurship, vo-tech, or personal finance, she encouraged them to keep learning every day. The weevil, for instance, has a low center of gravity; however, it helps them as they wobble, but they don’t fall down. 

She encouraged them to be grounded in their faith, which makes people more joyful, and be grounded in who they are. “You are not a mistake,” she said. “Find what you love and pursue it. Learn to forgive yourself and others. Stay away from debt and addiction.”

Salutatorian Drew Welch thanked the teachers, administrators, and staff as well as the mothers who were always there for them. He said that some will start over in college and some will work. He thanked all his close friends and family and congratulated all his classmates.

Valedictorian Paige Sherer thanked her mom and her twin sister Kaydee. She thanked everyone for the countless memories, and her coaches for pushing her to be her best. “Now we are getting ready to make our own moments,” she said to her classmates. “You have the power to make things happen. Be kind to people, even when it’s hard.”

Obituary -- Elizabeth Fountain 1933-2023

Elizabeth Mae Fountain, 90, of Albany, Missouri, passed away May 10, 2023, at Crestview Nursing Home in Bethany, Missouri. Elizabeth was born January 1, 1933, in Mt. Ayr, Iowa. She was the daughter of Marion Francis and Pearl Marie (Smith) Roach.

Elizabeth was united in marriage to Homer A. Fountain on November 14, 1949, in Bethany, Missouri.

She was preceded her in death by her husband Homer on August 10, 2000, her parents, daughter, Patricia Ann Fountain, sons, Dean and Allen Fountain, sisters, Frances and Ada and her brother, Martin “Buck” Roach.

Elizabeth worked as a nurse’s aide for several years and owned and operated Fountain Nursing Home in New Hampton. She was a member of the Advent Christian Church in Allendale, Missouri (Editor – Jackson Church, located 5 miles north of Allendale).

Survivors: daughters, Connie (Steven) Fausett, Rayville, MO; Dianna Seeley, Bethany; sons, Duane Fountain, Bethany; Donnie (Jodie) Fountain, Gilman City; sisters, Marlyen, of Texas; Linda, Albany; Carmeta, Stanberry; Alberta, Bethany; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Funeral Service: 11:00 AM Saturday, May 13 at the Roberson-Polley Chapel, Albany. Burial in the Henton Cemetery, Albany. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the chapel. Friends may call anytime after 9:00 AM Saturday morning. Online condolences: www.robersonpolleychapel.com

Courthouse News for May 10th, 2023

On April 30th at around 6:45 am, a 2019 Freightliner driven by Rusingiza Blaise (32) of Lexington (KY) was southbound on I-35 at the 92.8 mile marker in Bethany. He traveled off the west side of the roadway, struck a sign, and returned to the roadway. The driver overcorrected and overturned, striking a second sign and coming to rest on the driver’s side facing north. Blaise received minor injuries and was taken to Harrison County Hospital. 

On April 30th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Lauren Stobbe (36) of Eagleville alleging Possession of Burglary Tools (Felony) and Receiving Stolen Property (Felony). Bond was set at $60,000, cash only.

On May 2nd, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Richard Wik (26) of Mount Ayr on a charge of Willful Injury (Causing Serious Injury). He was being held on no bond until seen by the magistrate.

On May 2nd at around 8:47 pm, a 2012 Can-Am Spider motorcycle driven by Allen Davison (72) of Maryville was northbound on Route 71 two miles west of Barnard when he struck a deer and was ejected. Davison received moderate injuries and was taken to Mosaic in Maryville.

On May 2nd, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Richard King alleging Receiving Stolen Property. Bond was set at $40,000, cash only.

On May 3rd, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Prudhvi Damineni (25) of Maryville in Nodaway County on charges of DWI and Failure to Have Two Headlights.

On May 3rd, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Berjoneana Wallace (43) of Robinsdale (MN) in Harrison County on charges of Speeding (106 mph) and No Valid License. 

On May 3rd, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Tayton Berendes (22) of Bethany alleging Property Damage. Bond was set at $5,000, cash only.

On May 3rd, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Marco Martinez (42) of Glendale Heights (IL) on charges of DWI, Speeding (20-25 mph over), and two counts Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway.

On May 3rd, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Dennis Roberson (45) of Kansas City alleging Resisting Arrest, Failure to Yield to Emergency Vehicle, Failure to Register, two counts Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway, two counts Speeding, Failure to Stop, Failure to Yield, Failure to Signal, No Valid License, and No Insurance.

On May 3rd, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Wendy Baker (44) of Ridgeway alleging DWI. 

On May 4th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Kodie Meyer (19) of Maryville alleging Burglary (Felony), Animal Abuse, and Minor Visibly Intoxicated. Bond was set at $5,000 signature bond.

On May 5th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Mark Easley (37) of Chicago (IL) in Harrison County on a charge of Speeding (106 mph) and an out of state felony warrant.

On May 5th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2008 Lincoln driven by Bobby Christian (77) of Maitland was eastbound on Route B and a 2022 Toyota Camry driven by Ada Barcus (82) of Hopkins was northbound on Route 71 at around 3 pm. The Patrol says the Lincoln traveled into the intersection and failed to yield the right of way. The Toyota struck the Lincoln in the right rear side. Barcus and Christian both received minor injuries. A passenger in the Barcus vehicle, James Barcus (89) of Hopkins, also received minor injuries.

On May 8th, St. Gregory’s Catholic Church reported that a new round of scam texts were sent to members of the congregation purporting to be from the priest and asking for favors.

On May 8th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Jerron Greene (36) of St. Louis alleging Assault (Felony). Bond was set at $10,000. Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt also filed charges against Lessa Chapdelaine (59) of Bethany alleging Harassment (Felony) and Tampering with Motor Vehicle. Bond was set at $15,000. Northwest Mo Info reported that the charges arose following an altercation Sunday. Greene allegedly missed his turn into the Bethany Wal-Mart, proceeded to MFA Oil, and attempted to turn around. Chapdelaine believed that Greene had cut her off, followed him into the Wal-Mart parking lot, and began writing down his information. Chapdelaine then allegedly attempted to unhook the airlines on the truck’s braking system; Greene then allegedly pulled Chapdelaine to the ground by her hair, causing her to lose consciousness. 

On May 8th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Hannah Pike (32) of St. Joseph in Andrew County on charges of DWI, two counts Child Endangerment (Felony), Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident), two counts Failure to Secure Child in Child Seat, No Insurance, and Failure to Register.

Charges listed are merely 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.

Dalanie Auffert Installed as NEN FFA President

Dalanie Auffert was installed as the new Northeast Nodaway FFA President Thursday at the annual FFA Banquet. Jill Boswell was named Vice President, Delanny Hopper Secretary, Baylie Busby as Treasurer, and Jake Redden as Sentinel.

Outgoing officers for this year are Lauren McIntyre (President), Jill Boswell and Delanny Hopper (Vice-Presidents), Jaden Atkins (Secretary), Dalanie Auffert and Grant McIntyre (Treasurers), Lily Burns (Reporter), Baylie Busby (Sentinel), Chaplin (Ruby Wilmes), and Meredith Adwell (Historian).

Several different teams competed in area FFA contests. The Agronomy team consisted of Meredith Adwell, Dalanie Auffert, Baylie Busby, and Lilly Burns. They were 16th in districts and an alternate to state.

The Dairy Cattle team was Austin Adwell, Skyler Florea, Lindsey Jackson, and Riley Long. They were 13th in districts and an alternate to state.

The Dairy Foods team was Jill Boswell, Delanny Hopper, and Grant McIntyre. Despite only having three members, they did well, placing 3rd at districts and 29th at state.

The Farm Management team consisted of Jaden Atkins, Lauren McIntyre, Kenneth Schieber, and Ruby Wilmes. They were 7th at districts and 23rd at state.

The Meats team consisted of Chase Clabaugh, Jacob Meyer, Jake Redden, and Landon Wilmes.

Greenhand degrees this year went to Austin Adwell, Drew Dack, Skyler Florea, and Mylee Wilmes. Star Greenhand went to Skyler Florea.

Earning the Chapter Degree were Baylie Busby, Chase Clabaugh, Hadley DeFreece, Lindsey Jackson, Riley Long, Jacob Meyer, Makenzie Pride, Jake Redden, Kenneth Schieber, and Landon Wilmes. Star Farmer award went to Baylie Busby. 

Chapter Leadership awards went to Skyler Florea, Lindsey Jackson, and Dylan McIntyre.

Chapter Scholarship awards went to Jaden Atkins, Austin Adwell, Meredith Adwell, Dalanie Auffert, Jill Boswell, Lily Burns, Baylie Busby, Skyler Florea, Delanny Hopper, Lindsey Jackson, Dylan McIntyre, Grant McIntyre, Lauren McIntyre, Kenneth Schieber, Landon Wilmes, Mylee Wilmes, and Ruby Wilmes.