Governor Extends Drought Alert for Missouri

On Friday, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 24-05, extending Missouri’s drought alert to September 1, 2024. The action directs continued coordination of resources and combined response efforts across state government until conditions improve in drought-impacted areas.

“Issuing a drought alert last spring was quite unprecedented, and unfortunately, the reality is we’re facing conditions worse now than a year ago,” Governor Parson said. “We welcome what rain Missouri has received in recent weeks, but this drought alert will continue so long as Missouri’s farmers and ranchers are struggling from the effects of prolonged dryness and concerns persist over commercial navigation along our riverways.”

Lack of precipitation and below normal streamflow over the past year have kept Missouri under a drought alert continuously since May 31, 2023. Prior to that, a drought alert was active from July 2022 to March 2023.

In accordance with the Missouri Drought Mitigation and Response Plan, Friday’s executive order will continue the drought alert in Missouri counties with areas experiencing moderate or greater drought conditions. It will also extend to any other county that begins experiencing drought conditions consistent with the drought plan’s phases and triggers table.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Drought Assessment Committee coordinates a combined state and federal response to the drought. At its April 17 meeting, the committee recommended the drought alert’s extension after hearing expert testimony that conditions within the state haven’t significantly improved due to unseasonably warm weather and continued dry conditions. Low streamflow within Missouri and a lack of plains and mountain snowpack were also cited as points of concern warranting the committee to continue its work into summer.

To date this year, Missouri has experienced fairly typical precipitation based on historical trends. However, groundwater, streamflow, and precipitation levels are not where they need to be to lift the state out of drought conditions, given the multi-year drought Missouri and other states to our northwest whose snow pack melts feed the Missouri and Mississippi rivers have experienced. 

Many rains in this area have been spotty. On Thursday, anticipated rains prompted the cancellation of the Junior High Tiger Relays and the NEN-Platte Valley baseball game. But it didn’t rain a drop in Eagleville, where the game with Albany was played.

As of April 25, 11 Missouri counties are experiencing severe drought, 71 counties are experiencing moderate drought, and 86 counties are experiencing abnormally dry conditions.

Over the past year, the Drought Assessment Committee has overseen and helped coordinate multiple actions to mitigate the drought that will continue under this Executive Order:

–Bringing together subject matter experts across public and private agencies to collect information and promote collaboration to find solutions to drought-related issues.

–Emergency water pumping and haying opportunities have been made available to farmers on public lands, including select state parks and conservation areas.

–Variances have been approved by the Soil and Water Districts Commission from its regular grazing school requirements, pond cleanout practices, and cover crop and livestock exclusion practices. Money has also been allocated to each Soil and Water Conservation District to help with soil and water resiliency.

–The Department of Natural Resources is monitoring drinking water reservoir systems to ensure drinking water capacity remains unaffected.

–The Department of Transportation continues to offer permits for over-width loads to allow hay to be transported.

–The Missouri Hydrology Information Center partnership is also working to expand the soil moisture and stream gauge networks to provide a more accurate account of water resources across Missouri.

–The Soil and Water Conservation Commission have obligated over $3.6 M to landowners and cooperators in communities to help mitigate the effects of drought.

–The University of Missouri and Missouri Department of Agriculture have both developed hay directories to help farmers and ranchers locate hay. 

Local condition reports are crucial to understanding drought impacts to provide timely and appropriate assistance. The public can submit information about local drought conditions at Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR).

In addition, a variety of helpful resources are online at www.dnr.mo.gov/drought. The Department of Natural Resources is adding information on drought mitigation and assistance opportunities as it becomes available. The one-stop drought website features links to CMOR, current drought-related news, the current United States and Missouri drought monitor maps, the Missouri Drought Mitigation and Response Plan, and other resources, including information on previous droughts.

The Missouri Department of Conservation also warns of the increased risk for wildfires that drought conditions can cause. For more information on how best to prevent wildfires, visit MDC's wildfire prevention website: www.mdc.mo.gov/your-property/fire-management/wildfire-prevention.

New Sheridan Post Office to be Built at Old Location

The US Postal Service announced Friday that they plan to rebuild the Sheridan Post Office at the site of the former building, which was torn down. They plan to construct a modular post office at that site, have the same hours, and offer the same services that they offered at the previous post office. Until then, they will continue to serve the community out of the Grant City Post Office.

The plan to rebuild the Post Office at the old location is contingent on whether they can negotiate a satisfactory deal with the owner of the property, and whether the site is suitable for the new building. If not, the Post Office will look at other sites.

Seal Coat Project for I-35 in Harrison County to Start

A seal coat project to extend the life of Interstate 35 in Harrison County is scheduled to begin Wednesday, May 1. The Missouri Department of Transportation has contracted with Vance Brothers, Inc., to complete the project on north and southbound I-35 from Harrison County Route N to U.S. Route 136 in Bethany.

During construction, the roadway will be narrowed to one lane around-the-clock in various locations. Crews will work from dawn to dusk from Monday-Friday.

A 16-foot width restriction will be in place for all project work zones. The project is anticipated to be completed by June. 

All work is weather permitting and schedules are subject to change.

MoDOT asks drivers to work with us by always buckling up, keeping your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones. Know before you go and check what work zones you might encounter at traveler.modot.org.

While at modot.org, sign up online for work zone updates. Information is also available 24/7 at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or via social media.

Route YY Now Open to Traffic

The Bear Creek Bridge on Gentry County Route YY was reopened to all traffic Wednesday, April 24. The bridge that closed in January 2023 due to structural deterioration was replaced by Gene Haile Excavating, Inc., working with the Missouri Department of Transportation.

Learn more about the project at https://www.modot.org/missouri-route-111-missouri-route-46-and-route-yy-bridge-replacement-atchison-and-gentry.

MoDOT asks drivers to work with us by always buckling up, keeping your phone down, slowing down and moving over in work zones. Know before you go and check what work zones you might encounter at traveler.modot.org.

While at modot.org, sign up online for work zone updates. Information is also available 24/7 at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or via social media.

Junior High Tiger Girls Rise to Second; Brooklyn Smith Wins 100 at Tarkio

Worth County’s junior high girls rose to second Thursday at the Indian Relays in Tarkio and Brooklyn Smith won the 100. 

For the girls, Rock Port had 115, Worth County 62, Albany 58, St. Gregory’s 52, East Atchison 45, Mound City 42, South Holt 22, King City 21, Buchanan County Middle School 17, Platte Valley 16, North Andrew 10, Nodaway Valley 4, and North Nodaway 1.

For the boys, Mound City had 78, King City 63, Rock Port 51, North Andrew 50.50, East Atchison 50, Nodaway Valley 42, Buchanan County Middle School 32, Worth County 30, Platte Valley 27.50, South Holt 22, St. Gregory’s 12, and Albany 7.

For the girls, Brooklyn Smith won the 100 and got a personal best with a time of 14.02. She also got a personal best in the 400 and finished second with a time of 1:08.87. Audrey Runde spent all year between 19 and 21 seconds, but finally rediscovered her form from last year and got a personal best in the 100 Hurdles with a time of 18.47, good enough for third. 

The 4x100 relay team was third with a time of 59.15. The 4x200 was fifth with a time of 2:06.04. The 4x400 was fourth with a personal best of 5:07.28, beating their previous mark by over 15 seconds.

Brooklyn Smith matched a personal best in the High Jump with a third place finish and a height of 1.32 meters. 

The Tigers placed two in the Pole Vault. Megan Tracy was third with a height of 2.11 meters. Hartley Fitzgerald was fourth with a height of 1.98, a personal best.

Brooklyn Smith was third in the Long Jump with a jump of 4.22 meters. Megan Tracy was fourth in the Triple Jump with a jump of 8.45 meters. 

Laura Hansen got a personal best in the Shot Put with a throw of 8.39 meters. Audrey Runde was fourth in the Discus with a personal best throw of 23 meters.

The Tigers placed two in the 100 Hurdles. Mason Hiatt was fourth with a time of 18.88, a personal best. Brock Healy was sixth with a time of 19.19.

The 4x100 relay team was sixth with a time of 56.24. The 4x200 was fifth with a time of 1:56.90.

Mason Hiatt got a personal best in the High Jump with a height of 1.37 meters. 

The Tigers placed two in the Pole Vault. Bentley Frisch won with a height of 2.90 meters. Brock Healy was fourth with a height of 2.43. 

Maverick Cox was fourth in the Long Jump with a jump of 4.89 meters. Jordan Dannar got a personal best with a jump of 4.51. 

Brock Healy was fifth in the Triple Jump with a jump of 9.97 meters. He was first among seventh graders. Bentley Frisch got a season best with a jump of 9.55.

Brock Healy got a personal best in the Discus by over two meters and finished fifth with a throw of 30.17 meters. Wesley Brown matched a personal best with a throw of 23.70.

North Nodaway

Zoey Phillips got a personal best in the 100 with a time of 16.70. Trynzlee Ebrecht got a personal best in the 400 with a time of 1:14.82. Trynzlee broke the 20 second barrier in the 100 Hurdles and finished sixth with a time of 19.56. 

Zoey Phillips got a personal best in the Long Jump with a jump of 3.46 meters. Eliza Clements got a personal best in the Triple Jump with a jump of 7.67 meters. 

For the boys, Jackson Keho got a personal best in the 100 with a time of 13.37. Reed Martin also got a personal best with a time of 15.26. 

Trenton Roberts got a personal best in the 200 with a time of 34.46. Gannon Stricker got a personal best in the 400 with a time of 1:13.54. Robbie Forney got a personal best with a time of 21.69.

The 4x400 got a personal best by over 9 seconds, getting a time of 4:59.26.

Gannon Stricker got a personal best in the Shot Put with a throw of 8.45 meters. 

Tiger Boys Win Third Meet of Year at Stanberry, Girls Third; DeLeon, Casner Finish 1-2 for Mustangs

Worth County’s boys won their third meet of the year, while the girls had their highest point total of the year and finished third. For North Nodaway, Jordan DeLeon and Mason Casner finished 1-2 in the High Jump as the boys finished with their highest point total of the year.

For the girls, Rock Port had 115, Nodaway Valley 77, Worth County 76, Platte Valley 63, Pattonsburg 56, Maysville 51, King City 44, Stanberry 37, Albany 31, DeKalb 21, Princeton 18, North Andrew 6, and North Nodaway 1.

For the boys, they didn’t have to worry about it coming down to the last event as they won handily this time. Worth County had 99, Stanberry 77, Albany 70, Nodaway Valley 66, Rock Port 65, Princeton 51, Platte Valley 47, North Andrew 35, North Nodaway 34, Maysville 33, DeKalb 11, King City 8, and Pattonsburg 7.

The girls were 2-3 in the 100 as Emma Spencer was second with a time of 13.81 and Brooklyn Richardson was third with a time of 13.91. Becca Smith got a season best in the 200 with a time of 32.32. Riley Ridge was fourth in the 100 Hurdles with a time of 18.96. Kristen Tracy was fourth in the 300 Hurdles with a time of 57.02.

The 4x100 team got a personal best and finished second with a time of 52.54. The 4x200 was fourth with a time of 2:05.26. The 800 Sprint Medley was fifth with a time of 2:20.60. 

Riley Ridge won the High Jump with a jump of 1.55 meters. Brooklyn Richardson was fourth with a height of 1.40. The Tigers placed two in the Pole Vault. Eva Engel won with a height of 3.35 meters. Becca Smith was fifth with a height of 1.83 meters. 

Katelyn Fletchall got a personal best in the Long Jump with a jump of 3.98 meters. She was fifth in the Triple Jump with a jump of 8.40 meters.

Kara Staton was fourth in the Shot Put with a throw of 9.53 meters. She was fifth in the Discus with a throw of 28.20 meters. 

The Tigers placed two in the Javelin. Autumn Cousatte broke the 30 meter barrier and finished fourth with a throw of 30.14. Brooklyn Richardson also got a personal best with a throw of 27.95.

The Tigers placed two in both the hurdle events. Lucas Frisch won the 110 Hurdles with a time of 17.30. Brayden Combs was third with a time of 19.49, a personal best. Frisch also won the 300 Hurdles. Brayden Combs was third with his second best time of the year at 48.07.

The 4x200 was fifth with a time of 1:50.65. The 800 Sprint Medley won with a time of 1:45.72.

Andrew Griffin was fourth in the High Jump with a height of 1.60 meters. Brayden Combs was fourth in the Pole Vault with a height of 2.74 meters. Wyatt Hill was fifth with a height of 2.59.

Landon Moser was third in the Long Jump with a jump of 5.56 meters. Wyatt Hill got a personal best with a jump of 4.77. Andrew Griffin was second in the Long Jump with a jump of 11.17.

Bo Collins was fourth in the Shot Put with a throw of 11.39 meters. He won the Discus with a throw of 39.76. Tyler New won the Javelin with a throw of 42.73 meters.

North Nodaway

Lauren Herndon got North Nodaway’s first points all year with a sixth place finish in the High Jump. She got a personal best jump of 1.35 meters. She also got a personal best in the Long Jump with a jump of 3.88 meters.

Jordan DeLeon was second in the 110 Hurdles with a time of 18.64. He was fourth in the 300 Hurdles with a time of 48.32 meters. 

The Mustangs finished 1-2 in the High Jump. Jordan DeLeon and Mason Casner both got a height of 1.70 meters, with DeLeon winning on tiebreaks. DeLeon got a personal best, while Casner matched a personal best.

Mason Casner was fourth in the Long Jump with a jump of 5.55 meters.

Ethan Fry Keeps North Nodaway Close but King City Walks Off 3-2

Ethan Fry did everything he could to keep North Nodaway close, but the Mustangs could not overcome five errors or six called third strikes as King City walked it off 3-2 Tuesday, April 23rd. 

King City had won four games up to that point, but were in the middle of an ugly four game losing streak, including a 24-4 loss to St. Joseph Christian and a 20-3 loss to Albany. North Nodaway, still searching for their first win, followed a 4-3 loss to DeKalb with an ugly 18-0 blowout loss to Platte Valley, a game that ended so quickly that one of the umpires, Rory Bredlow, made it to the NEN game with Nodaway Valley while it was still in progress.

The game was moved to North Nodaway due to heavy rains at King City the night before; King City remained the home team for that game.

Neither side could draw blood for the first three innings. North Nodaway stopped itself for the first three innings with four called third strikes during that stretch while Ethan Fry kept King City off balance with his big breaking ball and was backed up by a couple of good catches by Daryn Berg in right field. 

But after North Nodaway could not score in the fourth, Ryder Sample doubled to left as it sliced away from Ridge Clements and Jacob Jensen singled him to home. But Jensen was out in a rundown trying to steal third as he got a late break for the bag and was a sitting duck.

North Nodaway could not solve Graham Medsker and his breaking ball all night, but in the sixth inning, he ran out of pitches, Alex Jones replaced him on the mound, and North Nodaway struck with two outs. Preston Hansen singled for Medsker’s final at bat and Brice Trimble followed with a double into the gap in left. Daryn Berg got hit by a pitch and Ridge Clements singled home a run to make it 2-1.

But with one out in the Wildkat sixth, Fry lost Jaxzen Johnston’s pop fly in the sun and King City had new life. Johnston took second on a balk and third on a steal. Maddox Farmer stretched a single into a double as Johnston scored to tie it at 2-2.

After North Nodaway went down in order in the seventh. Alex Jones reached on an error as shortstop Brice Trimble’s throw was wide. He stole second and went to third on Cayden Wainscott’s bunt. Trying to make something happen, Fry tried to pick off Jones at third, but third baseman Blaine Clements and the runner got tangled up, the ball got away, and Jones scored for the winning run.

Area Courthouse, Police, and Crime Reports for April 24th, 2024

On March 11th at 4:30 pm, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department reported that a vehicle driven by Holly England (32) of Beaconsfield was northbound on P68 when she drifted off the road, entered a ditch, hit an embankment, went airborne, and came to rest on the driver’s side. She had to be mechanically extracted from the vehicle. Subsequently, she was charged with two counts Child Endangerment and one count DWI. 

On April 16th, Jordan Emerson (31) of Powhattan (KS) pleaded guilty in Nodaway County Associate Circuit Court to a charge of DWI. He was sentenced to two years supervised probation by Judge Robert Rice. $213.50 of his bond money will be applied to court costs and recoupment fees.

On April 16th, severe storms, 60 mph winds, and a possible tornado tore through Nodaway County and Sheridan. There was storm damage west of Hopkins and northeast of Maryville. The electricity flickered on and off at one point that morning. Subsequently, the National Weather Service confirmed that two tornadoes touched down in Nodaway County. The first touched down west of Hopkins, had top wind speeds of 90 mph, and caused one injury. The second touched down northeast of Maryville had had a top wind speed of 75 mph.

On April 17th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Allen Thomsen (56) of Eagleville alleging Endangering the Welfare of a Child (Felony). Bond was set at $50,000, cash only. 

On April 17th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Wendy Baker (45) of Ridgeway alleging Resisting Arrest. Bond was set at $10,000. 

On April 17th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Andrew Lane (36) of Blythedale alleging Stealing (Felony) and Property Damage (Felony). The charging document filed by the prosecutor alleges the defendant stole five lambs and destroyed 180 plants belonging to another person. Bond was set at $20,000, cash only.

On April 17th, a scammer was calling people in Worth County offering to “help your business.”

On April 17th, a massive outage affected United Fiber customers, including in Hopkins. At its peak, 3,500 customers were affected. An emergency maintenance restored most customers, but there were still others without service as of Thursday afternoon. On Friday, the company reported they were down to a handful of customers without service, but numerous people replied to the Facebook post saying they were still out or that they had their service restored, only for it to go down again. As of Friday afternoon, there were 296 comments in that thread. Service continued to be down for some customers as of Monday, with others reporting they had service temporarily restored, only for it to go down again. 

On April 17th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Blayne Fitzsimmons-Lewis (34) of Boone (IA) in Harrison County on charges of DWI, No Valid License, and Careless & Imprudent Driving.

On April 17th, Special Prosecutor Tara Cluck filed charges against Blake Smith (36) of Maryville in Nodaway County alleging Non-Support (Felony). Information filed by the Prosecutor alleges the defendant stopped making child support payments in January 2022. The amount alleged owed totals $10,500.03. 

On April 18th, the Pottawattamie County (IA) Sheriff’s Department arrested Joseph Rumple (40) on a Ringgold County Warrant for Failure to Appear. Bond was denied.

On April 18th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Pamela Wissler (39) of Graham alleging Stealing,  Possession of Hydrocodone (Felony), and Possession of Methamphetamine (Felony). Bond was set at $30,000, cash or corporate surety. An affidavit from the Maryville Police Department alleges that on April 17th, defendant took $198.58 worth of merchandise from a local store without paying. While searching her car, officers allegedly discovered the illegal drugs. This is in addition to the charges against her filed on April 15th.

On April 18th, Brian Buntin (43) of St. Joseph pleaded guilty to a charge of No Valid License (Felony) in Harrison County Circuit Court. He was sentenced by Judge Steven Hudson to five years court-supervised probation. 

On April 18th, Jeffrey Jackson (40) of Excelsior Springs pleaded guilty to a charge of Tampering with Motor Vehicle (Felony) in Harrison County Circuit Court. He was given a suspended sentence of 4 years and was sentenced to 5 years probation by Judge Steven Hudson. 

On April 18th, Tayton Berendes (23) of Bethany pleaded guilty in Harrison County Circuit Court to a charge of Burglary (Felony). He was sentenced to 3 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections by Judge Steven Hudson concurrent with a case in DeKalb County. 

On April 18th, Jaquan Sinclair (28) of Lumberton (NC) pleaded guilty in Harrison County Circuit Court to a charge of Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony). He was sentenced to 60 days in jail by Judge Steven Hudson. 

On April 19th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Joseph Wilson (39) of Stanberry alleging Domestic Assault and Peace Disturbance. Bond was set at $2,000, cash or corporate surety.

On April 19th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Amanda Thomas (46) of Bethany alleging Harassment (Felony) and Peace Disturbance. Bond was set at $5,000, cash only. 

On April 20th, a Honda Fourtrax 300 driven by Cael Schmitz (21) of Lebanon was towing Jacob Dickinson (37) of Fort Collins (CO) in a parachute with approximately 110 feet of rope three miles northeast of Grant City on private property. The rope snapped and Dickinson fell from the sky, landing in a nearby hayfield. He received serious injuries and was life flighted to Truman Medical Center in Kansas City.

On April 21st, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Jay Thomas (42) of Bethany alleging No Valid License (Felony, 4th Offense). Bond was set at $5,000, cash only.

On April 21st, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Nekoma Hendrix (46) of Clearmont alleging Assault (Felony). Bond was denied.

On April 22nd, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2016 Toyota Highlander driven by Cindy Thao (54) of Jay (OK) was southbound on I-35 in Harrison County at the 89 mile marker at around 8:42 am. The vehicle traveled off the east side of the roadway and into the median. The vehicle struck the crossover, went airborne, and struck the ground. A passenger, Steven Thao, received moderate injuries and was taken to Harrison County Hospital. 

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 Harrison Putting Together Junior High Track Record Board

North Harrison is putting together a Junior High Track Record Board. We came up with one change and one new record while looking over our writings. As of April 19th, these are the following records:

Girls:

75 Meter Hurdles – Darci Gilpatrick (1998) 14.28. 100 Meter Hurdles – Hali Smith (2024) 18.24. 100 Meter Dash – Liane Groom (2000) 13.68. 200 Meter Dash – Darci Gilpatrick (1998) 29.57. 400 Meter Dash – Jayliegh Robins (2018) 1:04.42. 800 Meter Run – Rachel Thomsen (2007) 2:50.16. 1600 Meter Run – Mardee Sadowsky (2015) 6:15.00. 4x100 Relay – Lisle, Sydenstricker, Groom, Lenz (2000) 58.17. 4x200 Relay – Barnhouse, Manion, Miller, Emig (2005) 2:04.91. 4x400 Relay – Thomsen, Parkhurst, Law, Carey (2007) 4:49.89.

Pole Vault – Hali Smith (2024) 2.13 meters. Long Jump – Chandelar Carey (2007) 4.56 meters. Triple Jump – Chandelar Carey (2007) 9.96 meters. High Jump (tie) – Melissa McBroom (1992) 1.38 meters, Liane Groom (2000) 1.38 meters, Rachel Thomsen (2007) 1.38 meters, Brandy Rivet (2013) 1.38 meters. Shot Put – Haley Craig (2012) 11.52 meters. Discus – Haley Craig (2012) 29.19 meters.

Boys:

100 Meter Hurdles – Dalton Guy (2024) 18.67. 100 Meter Dash – Tanner Bowen (2007) 12.31. 200 Meter Dash – Tanner Bowen (2007) 26.21. 400 Meter Dash – Wyatt Maize (2023) 59.16. 800 Meter Run – Damien Sturdevant (2011) 2:34.15. 1600 Meter Run – C.J. Henson (2000) 5:31.15. 4x100 – Stevens Lisle, Small, Parkhurst (2003) 52.78. 4x200 – Bain, Craig, Stevens, Stobbe (2002) 1:50.47. 4x400 – 4:31.11.

Long Jump – Wyatt Maize (2023) 5.94 meters. Triple Jump – Tanner Bowen (2007) 10.88 meters. High Jump (tie) Garren Gibson (2009) 1.68 meters. Jordan Hurt (2011) 1.68 meters. Shot Put – Patrick Fitzgerald (2002) 11.71 meters. Discus – Patrick Fitzgerald (2003) 36.32 meters.

Measurements are converted to meters as currently recorded. Earliest records are from 1989-90. If anybody has information or corrections, please contact the school or this newspaper.

Shorthanded Bluejays Decimated by Thunder on Senior Night

A shorthanded Northeast Nodaway team was decimated by Nodaway Valley Monday night 11-0 as the roof caved in in the final two innings. The game was called after six innings. Seniors Jack Boswell, Trenton Hartley, Grant McIntyre, and Tyler New were honored after the game.

The Bluejays had every right to expect a competitive game after close losses to powerhouses Maysville and South Holt. But with Drew Dack no longer on the team and Brayden Stevens out with strep throat, the Bluejays were without two of their three pitchers and had to put together some makeshift lineups against the Thunder, which have been touted as a team that can challenge the Knights for the conference title. They had several players out of position, which finally cost them in the end.

Grant McIntyre started off as the pitcher, and should have picked off Tye Hoyt, but the umpire called him safe and he later came around to score in the first inning. Aided by a successful pickoff of Preston Jenkins, he was able to get out of the inning. He found his stride before being lifted in the fourth inning after throwing 60 pitches.

The wind was howling in from right and the dust was whipping up in everyone’s eyes, making every pitch, hit ball, and throw an adventure. But Bluejay right fielder Camdain Frisch made a running catch of Michael Cook’s pop fly, reading the wind perfectly, to keep the Thunder off the board in the fourth inning and keep the deficit at 2-0.

But the Bluejays didn’t help themselves at the plate, where they were standing and hoping to walk instead of trying to get a hit. They had six called third strikes, as Thunder pitchers Tye Hoyt and Lane Larabee combined on a no-hitter. 

Landon Wilmes pitched the next leg and Northeast used him up. He started off well, throwing strikes around the plate. But a pair of errors in the fifth meant the wheels were starting to come off, and Nodaway Valley scored three runs in the inning to make it 5-0. It would have been worse, but Camdain Frisch, who was a bright spot in right field that day, took an apparent base hit away from Michael Cook as his pop fly dropped right in front of Frisch. But he gunned down Kayden Conn at the plate on a force play, as he had held up to make sure the ball wasn’t caught.

All hell broke loose in the sixth inning as Wilmes tired and fought the strike zone. Five walks and two hits later, he was lifted. Camdain Frisch walked in two batters, but then got out of the inning.

History of the Hopkins Journal Printing Presses

The Hopkins Historical Society was established in 1998, beginning with the donation by Russell and Anna Cross of the building that housed the Hopkins Journal, a weekly newspaper published for over 100 years. The Journal was first published in 1875 by owner and editor James M. Pierce who owned it for 2 years. From 1877-94 six different editors tried their hand at publishing. William Lincoln Moorhead, the “Deacon” as he was known, became editor and publisher in November 1893 until his death in 1939. His daughter, Helen Moorhead Wright and her husband Joe became editors and publishers for 19 years. Russell was a foster child of the Moorheads and worked in the Journal office as a young boy, until eventually he and his wife Anna bought the business in 1958.  From 1893 until the Journal was sold in 1977, it was continuously run by family, ending with Russell and Anna in 1977. 

The printing  equipment used by the Journal was donated with the building and is still housed in the Museum. From it’s founding in 1875 until 1909, The Journal was printed on a completely hand-operated, one-page Washington printing press. In 1909 a Country Campbell printing press, powered by a gas engine, later replaced by an electric motor was used until 1953. At that time a Babcock 10 Optimus was purchased from the Wright’s from the defunct Maryville Tribune. The Babcock, known as “Big Bertha,” came with a “folder.” From 1875 until 1909, every page of The Journal was folded by hand; but with the addition of  the Dexter folder, which operated off the same drive shaft of the Country Campbell, made the weekly folding job much faster. From being folded by hand to turning out 1,000 to 1,200 quarter-fold copies an hour was a huge improvement. However, the Dexter had a few quirks, and the Deacon and later on Joe Wright were known to use foul language to help it along.  During these times, Lawrence Sargent, longtime pressman and strong Christian, was warned to cover his ears. Most of the printing equipment used by Russell and Anna for the Journal and their printing business later on are still on display in the museum for viewers to enjoy. 

The massive, yet delicate, spring activated hot metal (525 degrees) linecasting machine on display is a Linotype Model No. 5, manufactured about 1910, was rebuilt and purchased by Deacon Moorhead for the Journal in 1927 and was  used for 70 years until it became obsolete. It weighed approximately 2000 lbs  and was geared to make six castings per minute, which in newspaper work is about 3 columns per hour.  It was rebuilt twice in the Journal shop, in 1950 and 1965. 

The Galley Proof Press on display was manufactured by Nolan. It was used to pre-proof linotype and advertising composition before the type is locked on a press for final printing.

The Chandler and Price 12 X 18 Craftsman Platen Printing Press on display was used for commercial printing  in the Journal and later in Cross Printing for 45 years. The press was purchased from the defunct Maryville Tribune in the mid 1950’s.

A metal casting on display was originally the bed of a one-page printing press used by the Journal. It was replaced by the Country Campbell in 1909 and thereafter used as a makeup table.

There are several other antiques such as a hole punch, ad plates, pig molds and a table top cabinet with many drawers of letters in different styles and sizes to put together an article one letter at a time.

Last but not least, a wall in the front room of the museum was dedicated by Russell and Anna Cross to “The Way It Was.” This wall holds the last 8 pages of the Journal printed letterpress with columns of print and ads. Also on the wall are several “tools of the trade” for viewing.

The Hopkins Historical Society is located on the East side of the North/South Main street of Hopkins and is open from the first Tuesday in May to the last Tuesday in October from 1 pm to 3 pm or by appointment.  The museum has many items of Hopkins history besides these mentioned above. Visitors are always welcome!

Credit to Co-Publishers, Russell and Anna Cross, Hopkins Centennial and A Time Capsule of Hopkins History

Mary Roach 1927-2024

Mary Madonna Roach, 97 of Grant City, Missouri passed away on Saturday, April 20, 2024. Mary was born in Hillsdale, Oklahoma to Donaldson Bly and Carrie Annie (Maylan) Jones on March 31, 1927 and welcomed by her older brother, Gerald (Red) Jones.

They moved to Irena, Missouri in her early years where she attended the Victory School near Honey Grove and later moved to Grant City when she was in the 8th grade. She graduated from Grant City High School in 1945. 

Mary was united in marriage to Garland Ray Roach on November 14, 1945 and they celebrated 73 years together. They spent 37 years on their farm in the Nation around Allendale, MO and moved to Grant City in 1982 where they became active in the community.

Mary, along with her husband, Garland was very active for years in the Allendale Baptist Church where she enjoyed helping out with Vacation Bible School. Mary was also active in the Lotts Grove Ladies Club and the Women’s Missionary Union. They were both active in the VFW and they enjoyed traveling together and going to Garlands’ Navy Reunions and visiting friends they had made over the years. They also enjoyed going to coffee and catching up with friends.

Mary and Garland were blessed with two sons, Alan Ray Roach and Daniel Lee Roach. She was a dedicated wife and wonderful Mother and worked hard to make a home for her family. She was a very caring, compassionate woman and instilled a strong work ethic in her sons and loved caring for her family, those around her and others in need. 

She is survived by her son Alan and wife Donna of Shawnee, Kansas and her son Daniel and wife Debbie of Grant City, MO; her grandchildren, Justin Roach (Janette), Darcie Searles (Jason), Jonathan Roach (Amber), Nicholas Roach (Keeley) and Kristin Roach and 10 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Garland, parents Donaldson and Carrie Jones and her brother Gerald Jones.

Funeral visitation will be at 10 am Wednesday, April 24th followed by the service at 11 am at Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home, Grant City, MO.

Memorials can be made to the charity of your choice.

NEN Hires Noncertified Staff, Approves Extended Contracts

The Northeast Nodaway Board named the Non-Certified Staff and approved extended contracts at their regular board meeting.

Non-Certified Staff hired or rehired were Kristin Sybert, Terry Runde, Casey Schmidt, Melody Adwell, Stephanie Meyer (part-time), Taylor Emery, DeAnn Redden, Michelle Holaday, and Holly Karr. 

Extended contracts were approved for Abbie Groomer, Sydney Meek, and Sikoya Trelow.

The board voted to renew the bus contract with Precious Cargo out of Ravenwood.

New board member Courtney Kennard and was sworn in for a three year term. Cody Adwell returns to the board; he was not present for the meeting. He will be sworn in at the May meeting.

Jeff Redden nominated Karl Wilmes for President and Karl Wilmes nominated Jeff Redden. The vote on Wilmes was 2 yes, 3 no, and 1 abstain. The vote for Redden was 4 yes, 2 no, and Redden was elected Board President.

Karl Wilmes was named Vice President, DeAnn Redden Board Secretary and Treasurer, and Leslie Wilmes as the Alternate Board Secretary. Cody Adwell was the MSBA delegate with Heather Jackson as the alternate. Heather Jackson was named the Park Board rep and Karl Wilmes was named the City Council rep.

The board voted to increase the non-certified pay by 75 cents.

The board voted to approve 6th grade participation for softball, basketball, and cheer.

The board approved the Career Ladder plan for the upcoming 2024-25 school year.

The board approved Hayston Wilson of Hallelujah Counseling for the Mental Health counselor.

Principal Heidi Beatty reported that Preschool and Kindergarten Roundup was held. The school saw 10 Kindergarten students for next year along with 15 preschool students (with one absent). 

Northeast will hold a Decision Day for seniors and preschool students for May 1st at 2 pm.

Elementary field trips are being held or scheduled between now and May 16th. As a new law, all parents attending must fill out a Volunteer Form and complete a criminal background check. This is the case for all public school volunteers.

Trips were lined up to reward students. Grades 3-6 who did well on the MAP and End of Course will go to Beal Park. Grades 7-8 and High School End of Course will go to Beal Park and sports fields. There will be indoor glow games and pizza for Pre-K and elementary students who met their reading goals. This is sponsored by the PTO.

Pit Bulls Running Loose, People Setting Dogs on Other Dogs Discussed at Grant City Council Meeting; Jeff Mozingo, Catherine Runde Sworn In

Water Superintendent Ryan Fletchall reported to the Grant City Council Meeting that he had been getting calls about pit bulls running loose in Grant City, people setting their dogs on other dogs that were tied up, and getting calls on his days off. The council suggested making some sort of schedule so that when he was off, someone else could take calls. They directed him to document reports that he is getting. Recently, the Missouri Legislature passed a law stating that cities could not pass ordinances against pit bulls. This superseded pit bull ordinances in Grant City and Sheridan. There are city ordinances against dogs running loose.

In Missouri, it is illegal to incite fights between animals. This includes baiting or fighting, permitting it on your property, promoting such a fight, attending animal fights, and selling animals for the purpose of fighting. People who are found guilty are deemed guilty of a Class E Felony. In 2007, NFL star quarterback Michael Vick pleaded guilty over his involvement in a dog fighting ring and served 21 months in prison. 

There are changes underway at City Hall. Former City Administrator Meggan Brown left the city; her last day was April 5th. The city recently advertised for a new Deputy Clerk to serve under Farrah Richey. Catherine Runde was reelected and sworn in. Jeff Mozingo, who was appointed earlier this year, ran as a write-in and was sworn in to a full term.

Donald Mancuso sent a letter to the council reporting that his trash was not being picked up.

Linda Phipps discussed the dangerous intersections of 46 and High Street as well as the intersection of McKinley and 1st Street. She said there are now signs that flash whenever there are motorists turning behind a hill. She said that the one at High Street and 46 didn’t use to be dangerous before 1981, when the railroad still came through Grant City, but that since the tracks had been taken out, it was a lot more dangerous.

The city got two bids for flooring for the Sheriff’s Office, from Webber and from Eckard’s. The city awarded the bid to Eckard’s out of Stanberry and directed the Sheriff’s Office to pick the style they wanted. The Sheriff’s Office will do their own labor to save costs.

The city appointed the Northwest Regional Council as the administrator of the $5 million wastewater grant.

The lead service line project attracted a lot of interest after the DNR put the bid solicitation on its portal. Previously, the city had awarded the bid to Snyder and Associates out of Maryville, but the DNR told the city they had bid the project out too soon. The city then rebid the project.

Better by Design out of Brookfield bid $149,275. Schulte Supply out of St. Peters bid $143,596. Reconn Utility Services out of New York bid $258,465. HBK Engineering out of Chicago bid $187,078. Environmental Works out of Kansas City bid $165,075. Byrne & Jones out of St. Louis bid $169,205. Total H2O Solutions from St. Louis bid $168,115. Bahr Hydroexcavation out of Arnold (MO) bid $163,405. Snyder and Associates of Maryville bid $95,000. Nail Excavation of Bethany bid $276,727. The city awarded the bid to Snyder and Associates.

Farrah Richey reached out to collection agencies to collect delinquent city taxes. Three expressed interest. Commissions are between 30-35% of the amount owed, rising to around 50% if it goes to court. The city would not pay unless they collect. Collection agencies can also report people to credit bureaus. The city will put an ad in the paper stating they are going to move forward with collection efforts. The city will select a collection agency at their next meeting.

Public Works Director Carl Staton reported that the city had started mowing. They put in new meter pits, and he found a new place to send the odometer to get it calibrated that was less expensive and quicker. The council put the old John Deere mower and the trencher on Purple Wave and the city will use the proceeds to buy a new John Deere mower. 

Water Superintendent Ryan Fletchall reported that he had gotten a quote for the lift pump by Kenny Hughes’ shop. To repair it would cost $5,796 and be done in 3-4 weeks. To purchase a new pump would cost $10,265.75 and it would be 8-10 weeks. The warranty for both would be one year. The city elected to have it repaired.

Fletchall also reported that he had attended asset management training for waterworks. He is in the process of getting rid of duckweed in the lagoon.

Clerk Farrah Richey reported that C&H had replaced the lights in City Hall and the Sheriff’s Office. There is one light that illuminates the painting overlooking the council chairs that is constantly flashing on and off. The city received a letter from a third grader from Colorado; Farrah will respond to it. 

The council voted to approve a building permit for Edward Cleveland for a new fence.

Junior High Tiger Girls Third at Rock Port, Boys Fourth; Brooklyn Smith Wins Long Jump, Bentley Frisch Wins Pole Vault

Brooklyn Smith won the Long Jump for the Junior High Tigers and Bentley Frisch won the Pole Vault Thursday at Rock Port in cold, damp conditions. 

For the girls, Rock Port ran away with the meet with 169 points. East Atchison had 69, Worth County 66, Mound City 63, Albany 26, South Holt 22, Union Star 13, North Andrew 12, Nodaway Valley 12, North Nodaway 7, and NEN 6.

For the boys, Rock Port had 100, Mound City 78, North Andrew 70, Worth County 53, Nodaway Valley 50, East Atchison 47, South Holt 33, Union Star 15, Albany 8, NEN 8, and North Nodaway 3.

For the girls, Brynn Chapman got a personal best in the 100 with a time of 17.79. Brooklyn Smith was fifth in the 400 with a time of 1:11.65. Hadley Rush was sixth in the 800 with a time of 3:15.62. Jolynn Hawk got a personal best with a time of 3:31.92. Audrey Runde was fourth in the 100 Hurdles with a season best of 19.26. 

The relay teams all placed. The 4x100 was second with a time of 59.44. The 4x200 was second with a time of 2:06. The 4x400 was fourth with a personal best time of 5:22.79, beating their old time by almost six seconds.

Brooklyn Smith was second in the High Jump with a personal best time of 1.32 meters. Paige Chaney was fifth with a time of 1.22. Megan Tracy was tied for second in the Pole Vault with a time of 1.98 meters. Hartley Fitzgerald was sixth with a personal best of 1.83. 

The highlight of the afternoon on the girls side was Brooklyn Smith winning the Long Jump with a jump of 4.48 meters. She beat her previous personal best by .32 of a meter. 

Megan Tracy was third in the Triple Jump with a personal best jump of 8.61. 

The Tigers may have found a new thrower. Audrey Runde, after starting off throwing between 16.94 and 17.62 meters, took a big leap forward and finished fourth with a throw of 21.95. Bella Blankenship was sixth with a throw of 19.45. 

For the boys, the Tigers placed two in the 100 Hurdles. Brock Healy was second with a time of 19 seconds. Mason Hiatt was fourth with a time of 19.67.

The 4x100 was third with a time of 56.86. The 4x200 was fourth with a time of 1:57.03.

The highlight of the afternoon for the boys was Bentley Frisch winning the Pole Vault with a height of 2.91 meters. It was a close three way race between Frisch, Cole White (Mound City), and Brock Healy, who really upped his game that afternoon. Frisch won out, with White second at 2.90 and Healy third with a personal best of 2.89. 

Maverick Cox tied for third in the Long Jump with a jump of 4.97 meters. Brock Healy was third in the Triple Jump with a jump of 9.59. 

Brock Healy was fourth in the Discus with a throw of 27.83. Wesley Brown got a personal best with a throw of 23.70. 

NEN

Piper Gray got a personal best in the 100 with a time of 15.79. Holly Bennett got a season best in the 200 with a time of 38.47. Rylee Scadden got a season best in the 400 with a time of 1:13.80. Sadie Hall got a personal best in the 100 Hurdles with a time of 21.54. 

The 4x100 was fifth with a time of 1:03.36. The 4x400 was fifth with a personal best time of 5:28.31. 

Piper Gray got a personal best in the Long Jump with a jump of 3.78 meters. Khloe Burns was fifth in the Shot Put with a throw of 8.79 meters. She was ahead of all the sixth and seventh graders; she will be a favorite to win that event next year if she works at it. 

Wyatt Scadden continued to move up the ranks in the 100, getting third with a personal best of 13.71. He was ahead of all the other seventh graders. He will be a favorite in that event along with Jackson Keho of North Nodaway next year if they work at it. 

Jaxen Taylor got a personal best in the 200 with a time of 37.56. Wyatt Scadden was sixth in the 400 with a time of 1:05.42. Liam Cordell got a personal best in the 800 with a time of 2:49.04. He got a season best in the 1600 with a time of 6:06.89. 

The Bluejays got two personal bests in the Long Jump. Xander Bodle got a personal best jump of 4.06 meters. Gracin Runde got a personal best jump of 3.69.

The field was loaded for Jace Burns in the Shot Put, but he beat all the seventh graders with a throw of 7.92 meters. He will be one to watch if he works at it. 

Brady O’Connell was sixth in the Discus with a throw of 24.68.

North Nodaway

Trynzlee Ebrecht got a personal best in the 400 with a time of 1:16.74. It was an improvement by over seven seconds from last year. Zoey Pearson got a personal best in the 1600 and was sixth with a time of 6:55.64. She beat her old mark by nine seconds. 

The Mustangs got two personal bests in the 100 Hurdles. Trynzlee Ebrecht got a personal best mark of 20 seconds. Pyper Smith got a personal best mark of 23.87.

The highlight of the day for the Mustangs was Ebrecht getting third in the Long Jump. She got a personal best mark of 4.15 meters, improving by almost half a meter. Zoey Phillips also got a personal best with a jump of 3.45. 

For the boys, Jackson Keho was sixth in the 100 with a time of 13.94. Gannon Stricker got a personal best time of 1:14.59 in the 400; it was an improvement of 3½ seconds. Robbie Forney got a personal best in the 100 Hurdles with a time of 21.83. It was an improvement of 1.56 seconds over last year.

The 4x400 was sixth with a personal best time of 5:08.80. It was an improvement of over seven seconds from their time at Mound City.

Tristen Wray got a personal best in the Long Jump with a jump of 3.26 meters. Jackson Keho was sixth in the Triple Jump with a personal best of 8.94 meters. 

North Harrison Names Extra Duty Staff

The North Harrison School Board, at its regular board meeting, named its extra duty staff for 2024-25. The school has openings for Assistant Football, Boys Basketball Assistant, Junior High Cheer, Varsity and Assistant Baseball, Varsity Track, Junior High Track, and Color Guard.

For Varsity Girls Softball, Justin Joiner was named head coach and Kiley Taylor his assistant. Dylan Hogan will coach the junior high, assisted by Tanya Norris. 

Aaron Long will coach the boys and girls golf teams. 

Long will coach Girls Basketball. He will be assisted by Krissi Cox. Justin Joiner will coach Boys Basketball. Dylan Hogan will coach Junior High Girls Basketball, and Justin Joiner will coach the junior high boys. Aaron Long will be their assistant. 

Korissa Robertson will coach varsity cheer.

Tabrey Kimbrough will coach both high school and junior high Academic Team.

Jenny Hartschen will coach the Junior High Boys Track Team.

Kristy Reno will sponsor the National Honor Society. Kelly Briggs will manage the pep band and music programs. Reno will do the school webpage. Marrisa Irvin will supervise the yearbook. Christine Sweeney and Dylan Hogan will sponsor the senior class. Jenny Hartschen and Kara Smith will sponsor the junior class. Marrisa Irvin and Tabrey Kimbrough will sponsor the sophomore class. Brandon Craig will sponsor the freshmen. Kristy Reno will sponsor the eighth grade. Aaron Long will sponsor the 7th grade. Kiley Taylor will sponsor the 6th grade. 

Kara Smith will run the concession stands. Janie Gates will be the Core Data Coordinator. Kara Smith will be the District Testing Coordinator. Kelly Briggs will run the Elementary Music Programs. Kristy Reno will sponsor the FBLA. Brenda Adcock will sponsor the FCCLA. Brandon Craig will sponsor the FFA.

Worth County Board Reorganizes, Names Extra Duty Staff for 2024-2025

The Worth County School Board reorganized and named its extra duty staff for the upcoming school year at its meeting Wednesday.

Amanda Gilland and Tish Warner were sworn in for another term. Warner was named President, Amber Monticue Vice President, Gilland Treasurer, and Abby Hern Board Secretary. 

For Senior High Athletics, Jon Adwell was rehired as Football Coach with Les New and Cree Beverlin as his assistants. Tiffany Bliley was named Head Girls Basketball with Megan Cassavaugh as her assistant. Les New was named Head Boys Basketball coach with Mason Hawk as his assistant. Janice Borey was named Girls Track and Cree Beverlin as Boys Track. Josh Smith will assist with track. Tiffany Bliley was named Girls Softball Coach with Ashley Briner as assistant. Janice Borey was named Girls Golf Coach. Cheer sponsors were Abby Hern for the football cheer squad and Dominique Badell for the basketball cheer squad.

For the junior high squads, Dan Collins was named Junior High Football Coach with Chris Healy as his assistant. Ashton Lewis was named Junior High Girls Basketball Coach with Daniel Gladstone as her assistant. April Healy was named Junior High Boys Basketball Coach.  Cody Green was named Junior High Softball Coach with Emiley Maudlin as his assistant. April Healy was named Junior High Girls Track Coach with Chris Healy taking boys.

For summer camps, all varsity sports coaches were put in charge of summer camps for their respective sports. Dan Collins was put in charge of junior high strength and conditioning.

The school has openings for a boys golf coach and a junior high cheer coach.

For school clubs and organizations, Cree Beverlin was named Activities Director, Amber Hawk as Special Ed Director, Caleb Smith as Instrumental Music, Vocal Music, and Band Camp, Merry Spiers as Academic Bowl Coach for both varsity and junior high, Nanci Drury as Musical Drama coach with Darin Drury as her assistant, Selina O’Connor as Concessions Manager, April Healy as FBLA Sponsor, Rebecca New as FCCLA Sponsor, Reese Zollman as FFA Sponsor, Megan Cassavaugh as Flag Coach, Jeannie Fletcher as Field Prep, Karen Andrews as Student Council Sponsor, and Jamie Degase as Parents as Teachers coordinator.

Elementary Principal Chuck Borey reported that there are 10 students signed up to attend Preschool next year. There are 24 students expected to attend Kindergarten. The Elementary had 100% participation in the Parent Teacher Conference recently.

Jamie Degase of Parents as Teachers has been hosting story times on Tiger Talk. So far, she has had herself, Tiffany Bliley, Chris Healy, Allie Rush’s Kindergarten Class, Caleb Smith, and Mrs. Gilland read stories.

The Extension office came and talked with fourth and fifth graders about composting.

Paige Hubbard and Chase Davidson qualified for State Math Competition in Columbia.

High School Principal Josh Smith reported on the various learning activities students are doing. English II students are learning how to do research papers. English I students are learning how to develop conclusions; they are reading “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Junior High Music students are learning how to convey meaning through artistic work and basic techniques. 

Students attendance was 96% with the sophomores getting the highest attendance with 97.56%. 

Superintendent Chris Healy reported on the education landscape. Senate Bill 727, which passed the legislature recently and is awaiting Governor Mike Parson’s signature, will see a $40,000 teacher minimum salary with the difference funded by the state, a $48,000 minimum for teachers with a Masters and 10 years experience, a $300 million increase in the State Funding Formula, and voucher expansion. 

Healy gave revenue estimates for the upcoming school year. Local money is expected to decline from $1,890,501 this year to $1,850,000 next year. Reduced assessed valuation because of construction work in progress and no Patterson Early Childhood Grant money next year are the reasons. County revenues, which come from state assessed railroad and utilities, are expected to decline to $300,000 from $351,074. State revenue is expected to decline from $1,791,138 to $1,700,000 due to less state transportation revenue. Federal revenue is expected to decline from $562,217 to $350,000 due to ESSER III money expiring. Total revenue from all sources is expected to decline from $4,594,930 this year to $4,200,000 next year.

As for spending, Healy has done projections with a $1,000 increase to teachers not affected by the Minimum Salary Grant and $500 for those benefiting, along with adding increases for steps. If the school does that, the teacher salary budget will go from an estimated $1,694,231 this year to $1,827,925 next year, an increase of $133,694. Recommendations will vary, depending on what the legislature does over the next six weeks. 46% of teachers benefited from the Minimum Salary Grant. The other 54% have received the normal increase from steps and the base increase.

Currently, the non-certified staff is budgeted for $689,417 for the current school year. The first option will be to increase by 3% plus a step, which would take it up to $715,000 for next year. The second option is to increase by an 8.2% average, which would take it up to $732,000.

For this year, the extra duty budget is $106,752. If the school continues to use $33,500 as the base salary and increase according to the salary schedule, the estimate for next year will be $110,000. If the board uses $38,000 as the base salary, the estimate will be $116,370.

The preceding figures are not recommendations; they are just outlooks before the board approves salary schedules in June after the legislative session ends.

The board approved a contract with EdCounsel to provide policies, manuals, handbooks, and guide documents for the district. The cost will be $13,000 for the first year of service and $2,500 for the next four years. They have four offices, in Columbia, Independence, Lake St. Louis, and Springfield. 

With the passage of the Bond Issue, the board began approving projects. The board approved Jensen Concrete out of Stanberry to provide concrete for the new football bleachers at a cost of $12,500. They were the lone bidder. The bid includes concrete, labor, and materials to complete the job.

The board put out bids for the electrical work at the softball field. This will include underground wiring for everything that is currently wired as well as the new lights. Pinnacle Electric of St. Joseph was the lone bidder for a total of $69,298, which was accepted by the board. The board bid the lights and the electrical work separately. Evergy has donated removal of the current poles, saving the district around $7,000.

Plans for the secure hallway and vestibules, the other main part of the bond project, are being completed and will be put out for bid this summer.

The board voted to continue the Career Ladder program for the next school year. 

Future meeting dates for board meetings will be May 22nd at 7:30 am, June 19th at 7:30 am, and July 17th at 6 pm.

Missouri Unemployment Report for March 2024

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 8,100 jobs in March 2024, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained at 3.3 percent. Private industry employment increased by 7,100 jobs and government employment increased by 1,000 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 54,200 jobs from March 2023 to March 2024, and the unemployment rate increased by half of a percentage point, from 2.8 percent in March 2023 to 3.3 percent in March 2024.

UNEMPLOYMENT  

Missouri's smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate held steady in March 2024 at 3.3 percent. The March 2024 rate was half of a percentage point higher than the March 2023 rate. The estimated number of unemployed Missourians was 103,681 in March 2024, up by 718 from the revised February total of 102,963. In addition, the estimated number of employed Missourians also increased in March, growing by 2,639 to reach a total of 3,000,264.

The state's not-seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate decreased in March 2024 by three-tenths of a percentage point to 3.7 percent from the February 2024 not-seasonally-adjusted rate of 4 percent. A year ago, the not-seasonally-adjusted rate was 3.2 percent. The corresponding not-seasonally-adjusted national rate for March 2024 was 3.9 percent.

Missouri's labor force participation rate was 63.1 percent in March 2024, four-tenths of a percentage point higher than the national rate of 62.7 percent. Missouri's employment-population ratio was 61 percent in March 2024, seven-tenths of a percentage point higher than the national rate of 60.3 percent. Missouri's unemployment rate was 3.3 percent in March 2024, half of a percentage point lower than the national rate of 3.8 percent. Missouri's unemployment rate has been at or below the national rate for more than eight years.

EMPLOYMENT

Missouri's nonfarm payroll employment was 3,022,000 in March 2024, up by 8,100 from the revised February 2024 figure. The February 2024 total was revised upward by 2,500 jobs from the preliminary estimate.

Goods-producing industries decreased by 200 jobs over the month, with manufacturing gaining 200 jobs and mining, logging, and construction declining by 400 jobs. Private service-providing industries increased by 7,300 jobs between February 2024 and March 2024. Employment in private service-providing industries increased in leisure and hospitality (6,200 jobs); private education and health services (2,100 jobs); trade, transportation, and utilities (1,800 jobs); and other services (1,300 jobs). Employment decreased in professional and business services (-3,200 jobs), financial activities (-700 jobs), and information (-200 jobs). Total government employment increased by 1,000 jobs over the month, with increases in federal (400 jobs), local (400 jobs), and state government (200 jobs).

Over the year, total payroll employment increased by 54,200 jobs from March 2023 to March 2024. The largest gains were in private education and health services (20,100 jobs); leisure and hospitality (11,700 jobs); mining, logging, and construction (7,300 jobs); trade, transportation, and utilities (5,600 jobs); financial activities (3,300 jobs); and other services (2,800 jobs). Employment decreased in professional and business services (-6,200 jobs), information (-300 jobs), and manufacturing (-300 jobs). Government employment increased by 10,200 jobs over the year, with increases in state (4,700 jobs), local (3,700 jobs), and federal government (1,800 jobs).

Sheridan Birthdays and Anniversaries for May 2024

May Birthdays

1 – Isabella Parman, Adelyn Richardson, Grace Gladman, Angela Larison, Candy Martin, Quinon Loseke; 2 – Connie Rydel, Terry Larison; 3 – Donnie Burns, Kristie Detrick; 4 – Adam Downing, Carissa Bounds, Kellan Asher; 5 – Kathy Fletchall; 6 – Mary Farrell, Roberta Owens, Billy Hightshoe; 7 – Shelly Hiatt, Vicki Swaney, Donna Lynch, Rick Hontz, Connor Dignan, Logan Dignan; 8 – Dale Winemiller, Sydney Thummel; 9 – Ryan Dignan, Alisha Mick; 10 – Nevada Hoff; 11 – Clayton Troutwine, Bob McClain; 12 – Scott Davidson, Nicholas Hamblin, Tania Langford; 13 – Shelby Welch; 14 – Mark Bullock; 15 – Skylar Rauch, Jason Rinehart; 16 – Judy Claypool; 17 – Tim Wray, Huey Rowen; 18 – Deanna Hunt; 19 – Ellen Wickert; 20 – Stella Lantz; 21 – Garth Lantz, Devan Dignan; 23 – Roger Swaney, Logan Gladman; 24 – Walker Simmons; 25 – Zeppelin Shoda, Karen Wray; 26 – Isaiah Steinman; 27 – Bill Spalding, Chelsea Black; 28 – Robert Staton, Laura Parman, Bill Wimer, Tatum Allee, Jessica Scott, Jeff Andrews; 29 – Larry Hansen, Shelly Schneider; 30 – Amy Hansen, Bart Hawk; 31 – Becky Newton, Corky DeMott, Dusty Hamblin, Derrick Fletchall, Janis Roorda.

May Anniversaries

3 – Ashley & Kenneth Farmer, Kassie & Tye Sapps; 6 – Vicki & Bud Heideman; 18 – Ruth Ann & Jack Thummel; 30 – Denise & Clint Rowen; 31 – Janice & Myron Garrett.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection May 4th

The Nodaway County Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Site will be open Saturday, May 4th, 2024, from 8:00 A.M. to Noon. The HHW Collection Site is located at the Nodaway County Maintenance Barn, 1516 East Halsey Street, Maryville, Missouri. 

Brochures are available online at www.nwmorcog.org. Residents of Atchison, Gentry, Holt, Nodaway, and Worth Counties are welcome to participate (ID required). There is no fee to drop-off. It is FREE for residents only. No commercial or business waste can be accepted. 

Examples of HHW include: household chemicals (bleach, ammonia, and cleaners) fertilizers, pesticides, brake fluid, transmission fluid, household waxes, Ni-cad, lithium, and lead acid batteries, compact fluorescent light bulbs, florescent tubes, antifreeze, oil base paint, and varnish. No latex paint accepted. Latex paint can be dried and put into the trash. Directions provided upon request.

Keep materials in the original container. Do not mix household hazardous wastes together.

Baby and Nuisance Wildlife

Brandon Lyddon, Conservation Agent

To try and keep predators from finding them, some adult wild animals like deer leave their young for periods of time because the young do not have scent like the adults. It is best to leave the wild animal where you find them and look at it from a safe distance. The longer an animal is away from its parents or its natural habitat, the less likely it will survive.

Wild animals cannot be legally kept without a permit and an appropriate facility and training to properly take care of the animal until it can be released. If you find severely injured wildlife or baby wildlife whose mother you know has died and is too young to feed itself, people can contact the closest permitted wildlife rehabilitator to see if they can take the animal. For NW MO there is one near Savannah and can be called at (816) 324-5824. Or you can find the best place for the animal in its natural habitat and release it as soon as possible.  

The wildlife code allows people to protect their property when wildlife is causing damage to their property. Live traps are a non-lethal option that can be used to try and trap nuisance wildlife and remove them from the problem area. 

Tiger Boys Win Home Meet as Wind Wreaks Havoc; Lane Graham Wins Long Jump for Shamrocks

Worth County’s boys overcame a windy afternoon that wreaked havoc on the meet and won their second meet of the year, edging out Rock Port and Stanberry. The girls finished ninth. North Harrison saw Lane Graham win the Long Jump as he continued on the tear that he started in Princeton the day before. 

For the girls, Rock Port had 88, East Atchison 71, South Harrison 63, Pattonsburg 57, Albany 54, Platte Valley 48, Maysville 41, Stanberry 24, Worth County 23, South Holt 23, Nodaway Valley 22, King City 17, DeKalb 13, NEN 5, East Harrison 2, North Harrison 2, and Tri-County 1.

For the boys, Worth County had 85, Rock Port 81, Stanberry 81, Platte Valley 55, Albany 48, South Harrison 47.5, East Atchison 35, King City 24, North Andrew 20, North Nodaway 18.5, North Harrison 10, South Holt 10, DeKalb 9, Maysville 8, NEN 8, Pattonsburg 5, Tri-County 4, Nodaway Valley 3, and East Harrison 2.

For the girls, Emma Spencer was fifth with a time of 14.54. The 4x100 team was fourth with a time of 55.31. Riley Ridge won the High Jump with a height of 1.45 meters. Addison Gray got a personal best in the Long Jump with a jump of 4.26 meters. Katelyn Fletchall got a season best in the Triple Jump with a jump of 8.44 meters. Kara Staton was fifth in the Shot Put with a throw of 9.35 meters. Autumn Cousatte was sixth in the Javelin with a throw of 26.70 meters.

The boys side came down to the last event of the afternoon. Worth County had 79 points, Rock Port had 77, and Stanberry had 71 with the 4x400 coming up. Worth County needed to finish ahead of Rock Port and finish at least fourth so that Stanberry could not mathematically catch them. They succeeded on both counts. Stanberry, which traditionally scores well in the 4x400 and 4x800, won the event with a time of 3:49.31, but Worth County was third with a time of 4:01.32. They finished ahead of Rock Port, which had a time of 4:14.74 to get the win. 

In other boys results, Lucas Frisch won the 110 Hurdles with a time of 18.75. Brayden Combs was sixth with a time of 21.31. Frisch ran into a stiff challenge from Cooper Mooney of King City in the 300 Hurdles. Mooney grabbed the early lead and led most of the way. But despite the stiff south wind, Frisch caught Mooney in the final 100 meters and passed him for the win. He won with a time of 45.01 to Mooney’s 45.91. Brayden Combs was fifth with a time of 49.71.

In the 4x100, Worth County led most of the way and ran their second best time of the year at 46.67 despite the wind. But a bad handoff on the final leg opened the door for Albany and Kyle Emerson caught Worth County at the end as Albany finished first with 46.50 to Worth County’s 46.67. 

With the wind wreaking havoc on most of the high jumpers, Andrew Griffin thrived in the adversity and matched a personal best to win the event with a height of 1.75 meters. 

Landon Moser was fourth in the Long Jump with a personal best of 5.76 meters. Moser won the Triple Jump with a season best 11.78 meters. Bo Collins was second in the Shot Put with a throw of 12.12 meters. He was third in the Discus with a throw of 37.96. 

Tyler New got a personal best in the Javelin with a winning throw of 45.40 meters, 1.7 meters ahead of his previous best. He had trailed Ean Meyer (Platte Valley) all year in the event, but finally moved ahead of him with his effort.

NEN

Baylie Busby tied for third in the High Jump with a height of 1.40 meters. Blair Nelson got a season best in the Long Jump with a jump of 4.08 meters. Severia Hall matched a personal best in the Triple Jump with a jump of 6.50 meters. Hayley Yost had a personal best throw of 21.43 meters in the Discus. She has improved her throw by almost five meters since the start of the year. 

For the boys, Kenneth Schieber thrived in the 800 on a day when so many other athletes struggled with the wind and times were way up. He got a season best and a fifth place finish of 2:30.08. He also finished fourth in the 3200 with a time of 13:11.31. Kyler Scadden was fifth in the Javelin with a throw of 34.50 meters.

North Nodaway

Carlos Rohner got a personal best in the 400 with a time of 1:12.83. Draven Rowland got a season best in the 1600 with a time of 6:43.13. Jeremiah Vinzant was sixth in the 3200 with a time of 14:13.96. Jordan DeLeon was third in the 110 Hurdles with a time of 19.64. He was fourth in the 300 Hurdles with a time of 49.38. 

The Mustangs placed two in the High Jump. Mason Casner matched a personal best from last year and finished third with a height of 1.70 meters. Jordan DeLeon matched a season best with a tie for fifth and a height of 1.65 meters.

North Harrison

Erica Gerken battled the wind and a loaded field and finished fifth in the 100 Hurdles with a time of 18.98. Jaxcynn Hansel got a personal best in the Discus with a throw of 23.04 meters. 

The highlight of the day for North Harrison was Lane Graham winning the Long Jump for the boys. He had a personal best jump of 5.94 meters. 

Bill Would Change Driver’s License and ID Rules

The Missouri House has signed off on legislation that would modify the policies related to licenses issued by the Missouri Department of Revenue in an effort to assist homeless youth in obtaining ID cards.

HB 1775, sponsored by State Representative Chad Perkins, proposes a comprehensive solution to support homeless youth by exempting them from specific fees collected by licensing offices, establishing a dedicated fund to manage and distribute these funds, and adjusting certain fee rates.

The legislation grants exemptions to homeless children, homeless youth, and unaccompanied youth from fees for nondriver identification cards and intermediate driver's licenses, contingent upon verification of their homeless status by designated authorities. Additionally, homeless children and youth are categorized as "emancipated minors," facilitating their attainment of supervised driving experience needed for intermediate licenses.

The bill introduces the "License Office Distribution Fund" to manage funds collected by motor vehicle registration fee offices, with quarterly disbursements to support contracted offices. It prohibits awarding fee office contracts to entities associated with Department of Revenue employees for a year post-termination, emphasizing uniform fee collection.

The bill also increases the following fees authorized to be charged by motor vehicle registration offices, a portion which will be remitted to the License Office Distribution Fund:

A motor vehicle or trailer registration issued, renewed or transferred, increases from $6 to $9; and a license sold or biennially renewed, increases from $12 to $18;

An application or transfer of title, increases from $6 to $9;

An instruction permit, nondriver license, chauffeur's, operator's, or driver's license issued for a period of three years or less, increases from $6 to $9; and a license or instruction permit issued or renewed for a period exceeding three years, increases from $12 to $18; and

A notice of lien processed, increases from $6 to $9.

Finally, the bill permits applicants to apply for a Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation emblem license plate and make a contribution payment during registration. These contributions are then deposited to the credit of the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation.

Hawley Questions DeJoy Regarding Mail Delays, Destroyed Post Office

 On Tuesday, April 16th in a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (HSGAC) Committee Hearing U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) pushed Postmaster General and United States Postal Service (USPS) CEO Louis DeJoy for a timeline to rebuild the Post Office in Baring, Mo. that was destroyed in 2023. Senator Hawley also asked for an update on the ongoing postal delays in Kansas City and St. Louis, Mo. 

In regard to the Post Office in Baring, Mo., Senator Hawley said, "this is a rural community in my state, and they don't have a post office at all. What bothers me is I haven't heard anything about the timeline for getting it rebuilt [...] I'm frustrated by the fact that it has been months and months, and I was told ninety days in September, and this is now the middle of April, and here we are." 

Mr. DeJoy did not provide an update on the timeline for the rebuild, but committed to Senator Hawley that he would get him one. 

Similarly, the Post Office in Sheridan was closed due to deterioration of the post office building there. The Postal Service subsequently solicited public comments regarding the location of a new building. They were supposed to have come and visited Sheridan to scout out a location, but have never done so. 

Regarding the ongoing postal delays in Kansas City, Mo. Senator Hawley said, "We have seen a tripling of casework reports in Kansas City, folks who are just saying they're just not getting their mail [...] This is happening in Kansas City, and frankly in St. Louis on the other side of the state as well."

Senator Hawley then asked for an update on the implementation of the Inspector General's recommendations on the delayed mail process. 

Mr. DeJoy explained that contracting issues resulted in the delays, but claimed that the issue should slowly be resolved and conditions improved. 

The Sheridan Express exchanges papers with the Bethany Republican-Clipper. For three weeks, the Express did not get a paper. Subsequently on Monday, they received three papers on the same day.

Erica Gerken Gets Personal Best in 100 Hurdles, Lane Graham Moving Up Ranks in Speed Events

Erica Gerken got a personal best in the 100 Hurdles for the girls and Lane Graham moved up the ranks in the 100 for the boys as North Harrison competed in the Jim King Relays at Princeton Monday, April 15th. The junior high competed as well.

For the varsity girls, South Harrison had 165, Princeton 110, Trenton 93, Putnam County 65, Gilman City 36, East Harrison 31, Newtown-Harris 16, and North Harrison 14.

For the junior high girls, Princeton had 128, Putnam County 57.5, South Harrison 56, Mercer 54, Trenton 46, Laredo 33, Gilman City 30, North Harrison 28.5, Newtown-Harris 17, and Livingston County (Chula) 15.

For the varsity boys, Putnam County had 127, Princeton 123, Newtown-Harris 121, South Harrison 81, Trenton 65, North Harrison 29, Gilman City 28, and East Harrison 4.

For the junior high boys, Trenton had 120, Princeton 109, Putnam County 91, South Harrison 71, Newtown-Harris 32, North Harrison 21, Gilman City 10, Laredo 8, and Mercer 2.

For the varsity girls, Kira Robertson matched a personal best in the 100 with a time of 14.87. The Shamrocks placed two in the 200. Kira Robertson was fifth with a season best of 31.47. Jaxcynn Hansel was sixth with a personal best of 31.68. Erica Gerken was fifth in the 800 with a time of 3:27.33. Gerken, who was third in her first two meets in the 100 Hurdles, got a personal best in the event and moved up the ladder to second. Kira Robertson got a season best in the Long Jump with a jump of 3.91 meters. 

For the boys, the highlight of the afternoon was Lane Graham getting a personal best in the 100 by over eight tenths of a second and getting a fourth place time of 12.18. Kolton Graham also got a personal best in the 100 with a time of 12.90.

Lane did even better in the 200. He knocked 1.6 seconds off his time in that event and got a third place finish of 24.96.

Tate Richardson got a season best in the 1600 with a time of 6:01.61. 

Dillon Hartschen was fourth in the Discus with a throw of 26.43 meters. Kolton Graham was fourth in the Javelin with a throw of 31.96 meters. 

The Shamrocks placed two in the High Jump. Kolton Graham was fifth with a jump of 1.60 meters. Tate Richardson was sixth with a jump of 1.60 meters, a personal best.

Lane Graham was second in the Long Jump with a personal best jump of 5.64 meters. 

For the junior high girls, Gracie Young got a personal best in the 100 with a time of 14.83. Addison Milligan got a personal best in the 200 with a time of 35.83. Lily Lane got a personal best in the 400 with a time of 1:34.63. Hali Smith was third in the 100 Hurdles with a time of 19.13. Addison Milligan got a personal best of 21.28.

Ava Rinehart was second in the Shot Put with a personal best throw of 9.19 meters. Rinehart was sixth in the Discus with a throw of 16.45 meters.

Raegan Hogan matched a personal best and tied for sixth in the High Jump with a jump of 1.25 meters. Hali Smith was third in the Pole Vault with a height of 1.75 meters. 

The Shamrocks placed two in the Long Jump. Gracie Young was third with a jump of 3.90 meters. Hali Smith was fifth with a  jump of 3.64.

Ava Rinehart got a personal best in the Triple Jump with a jump of 7.77 meters. 

For the boys, the Shamrocks got two personal bests in the 200. Jensen Davis got a personal best with a time of 28.15. Meric Hansel got a personal best with a time of 40.95.

Cole Hartschen got a personal best in the 400 with a time of 1:12.85. Lance Jacobs got a personal best in the 100 Hurdles with a time of 22.05. 

The 4x100 relay team was fifth with a time of 57.85. 

Kellan Craig was second in the Shot Put with a throw of 9.99 meters, a personal best. Henry Frank was sixth in the Discus with a throw of 22.04 meters. 

Jensen Davis was second in the Long Jump with a jump of 4.96 meters. Ryker Fortner got a personal best with a jump of 4.27. 

Community Calendar for April 16th, 2024

Community Calendar items are free of charge. Send entries to express@grm.net or message us on Facebook. All events are subject to last minute cancellation.

April 17th – Tiger and Shamrock Golf at Stanberry, 9 am.

April 17th – Worth County School Board Meeting, 6 pm.

April 18th – North Harrison Preschool and Kindergarten Screening, 8 am.

April 18th – Melissa Steele of Young at Heart will be at the Worth County Senior Center at 10 am to talk about scams.

April 18th – Junior High Relays at Rock Port, 4 pm. Worth County, NEN, and North Nodaway will participate.

April 19th – Indian Relays at Tarkio, 3:30 pm. Worth County and North Nodaway will participate.

(Rescheduled) April 19th – Mustang Baseball at DeKalb, 5 pm.

April 19th – Northeast Nodaway Mom Prom, 411 East Allyn Ave., Parnell, 7 pm. $20 pre-sale or $25 at the door. To purchase, call//text (816) 383-0946 or (660) 254-4916. Send special song requests to Michelle Welch (660) 254-4916. Sponsored by the Northeast Nodaway PTO.

April 20th – North Harrison Round Robin Baseball Tournament.

April 20th – Worth County cleanup, 8 am to noon. Sheridan, Grant City, and Denver will participate. Scrap metal, glass, aluminum, and electrical appliances will be accepted. Dropoff sites at Grant City Barn, Sheridan School, and east side of Denver square. A dumpster will be provided for appliances, mattresses, and furniture (no trash). Tires will be collected. Only passenger tires, on tractor tires. Rims must be removed. Charge $1/tire; will negotiate if large amounts. No hazardous waste. Info: Kevin Fisher (660) 783-5202 or Meggan Brown (660) 254-2857.

April 20th -- ABC Celebration -- A Night of Comedy, 7 pm, Allendale Baptist Church. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Father and son duo Fred and Gus Klett will perform. Free event.

April 21st – North Harrison Senior Church Night, 6 pm, Eagleville Community Christian Church. Message by Pastor Bruce Williams with refreshments to follow.

April 22nd – Tiger Golf at Albany, 4 pm.

April 22nd – Bluejay Baseball vs. Nodaway Valley, 5 pm.

April 22nd – Mustang Baseball vs. Platte Valley, 5 pm.

April 23rd – Second Harvest Community Food Drop in Hopkins, Missouri at 10 am, 102 South 5th Street.

April 23rd – Stanberry Relays, 3:30 pm. Worth County and North Nodaway will participate.

April 23rd – Mustang Baseball at King City, 4:30 pm. 

April 23rd – Shamrock Baseball vs. Trenton, 5 pm. 

April 23rd – NEN PK - 4th Grade Spring Concert, 6 pm.

April 24th – North Harrison sports physicals, 8 am. For all North Harrison students grades 5-11 planning to participate in MSHSAA sanctioned athletics next year. All students must have a physical and health insurance on file to participate or practice in a MSHSAA sanctioned sport.

April 24th – USDA Path to Prosperity Forum, 8 am to 3:30 pm, Northwest Missouri State Ag Learning Center. Free of charge. Must register in advance; to register, visit https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_3hvyRl9qSxKA7KEQ5GItVw#/registration. 

April 24th – NEN Balloon Toss, 2:30 pm, Ravenwood Park. All elementary students who raised $10 or more for the Kids Heart Challenge will toss balloons at one of six designated victims. 

April 24th – NEN National Honor Society Induction Ceremony, 6 pm.

April 24th – North Nodaway FFA Banquet, 6:30 pm. 

April 25th – New Hopkins Food Pantry to open at Hopkins Christian Church, 102 South 5th Street, Hopkins from 2 pm to 5:30 pm. For more information, contact Judy Crane at judycrane@yahoo.com.

April 25th – Shamrock Track at South Harrison.

April 25th – Junior High Tiger Relays, 3:30 pm. Worth County, NEN, North Harrison, and North Nodaway will participate.

April 25th – Shamrock Baseball vs. Albany, 5 pm.

April 25th – Bluejay Baseball at Platte Valley, 5 pm. 

April 26th – Panther Relays, Mound City, 3:30 pm. Worth County, NEN, and North Nodaway will participate.

April 26th – Mustang Baseball vs. South Holt, 5 pm. 

April 27th – Worth County Elementary Invitational, 10 am. For grades PreK through 6th. Registration fee $10. Limit four events. Open to all kids from Northwest Missouri and Southern Iowa. Registration deadline April 20th. To register: https://tinyurl.com/24wcinvite. Proceeds will go towards the Worth County Weight Room.

April 27th – North Nodaway Prom, 7 pm, Denrick Hall.

April 28th – Ravenwood Community Breakfast, 8 am to 12 noon. The NEN National Honor Society and Science Olympiad team will help.

April 28th – Grant City Lions Club is hosting a “STRIDES Walk for Diabetes Awareness” at the WoCo R-III track from 2-4.  Everyone is welcome to walk, skip, run, or dance around the track.  Kids games and participation prizes.  Not a race, just healthy fun.

April 28th – North Harrison Staff and Board Appreciation Dinner, 6:30 pm, Eagleville Youth Center. Blak Barrel Catering will provide the meal.

April 29th – No school at North Nodaway. Testing break.

April 29th – Tiger and Shamrock Golf at Grand River Conference Tournament, 9 am.

April 29th – Guest speaker Cara Filler from the Missouri DOT will speak to NEN high school students at 10:50 am.

April 29th – Mustang Baseball at East Harrison, 4:30 pm.

April 29th – Shamrock Baseball vs. North Andrew, 5 pm.

April 29th – NEN Band Spring Concert (5th-12th Grades), 6 pm.

April 30th – Highway 275 Conference Track Meet for Junior High and High School at Tarkio, 12 noon. North Nodaway and NEN will participate.

April 30th – GRC West Track Meet at King City, 1 pm. Worth County and North Harrison will participate.

April 30th – Bluejay Baseball vs. North Platte, 4:30 pm.

May 1st – Tiger Golf at Maryville Best Shot Tournament, 9 am.

May 1st – North Nodaway STEM Boat Activity, 12:30 pm.

May 1st – Decision Day at NEN for preschoolers and high school seniors, 2 pm.

May 1st – North Nodaway seniors will be presenting their passion projects at 5 pm. Fine Arts Night will follow at 6 pm and the music concert at 7 pm.

May 1st – NEN FFA Banquet, 6 pm, new gym.

May 1st – North Harrison Spring Band Concert, 6 pm.

May 2nd – North Harrison four year old field trip to Shatto Dairy, 8:30 am.

May 2nd – Tiger Golf at Districts in Cameron, 9 am.

May 2nd – NEN Pre-K and Kindergarten field trip to Gentry County Library, 9:45 am.

May 2nd – Mustang Baseball vs. Stewartsville/Osborn, 5 pm.

May 2nd – Shamrock Baseball at St. Joseph Christian, 5 pm. 

May 3rd – Last day of school for North Nodaway seniors.

May 3rd – Bluejay Baseball at East Buchanan, 4:30 pm.

May 3rd – North Nodaway Academic Banquet, 6 pm.

May 3rd – North Harrison FFA Banquet, 6:30 pm.

May 4th – District Track at King City, 9 am. Worth County will participate.

May 5th – American Legion Breakfast, Parnell American Legion Hall, 8 am to noon.

May 6th – Maryville Public Library will do a presentation for NEN Elementary Students at 8:15 am in the new gym.

May 6th – Bluejay Baseball vs. East Harrison, 4:30 pm.

May 6th – Worth County Senior Awards Night, 7 pm.

May 7th – Bluejay Baseball at Gilman City, 5 pm.

May 7th – North Nodaway Elementary Art Show and Music Concert, 5:30 pm.

May 8th – Grandparents Day at Worth County.

May 8th – Worth County Elementary and High School Band Concert, 6 pm.

May 9th – Sports physicals for all NEN students from grades 5 through 11 planning on playing MSHSAA sanctioned athletics next year, 11 am. All athletes must have a completed physical on file to play or practice.

May 9th – North Harrison Spring Sports Awards, 5:30 pm. 

May 9th – Worth County FFA Banquet, 6:30 pm.

May 10th – Worth County Sports Physicals, 8:30 am. 

May 11th – Maryville Art, Rhythm, & Brews, 3 pm to 10 pm. Maryville Square. 

May 25th – North Nodaway Alumni Banquet, 6:30 pm, North Nodaway High School Gymnasium. Dinner cost is $18 with alumni paying an additional $2 in dues. Please contact Teresa DeMott (660) 582-1086, Sue Florea (660) 541-4108, or Joyce Hennegin (660) 927-3682 or mail reservations to Dick Baldwin, 11596 Hwy. FF, Hopkins, MO 64461. All reservations must be received by May 18th.

June 1st – Benefit for Stacey Supinger, Sheridan Community Building, 5 pm. Supper and auction.

June 10th to 14th – Summer reading program at the Worth County Partnership Library. For ages 5 (before August 1st) through 6th grade. There will be reading activities from June 10th to 13th at the Library from 9:30 to 11:30 am. On June 14th, there will be a field trip to Kansas City starting at 8 am. 

June 15th – Smokes a Rollin’ 2 BBQ Competition, Eagleville. Live music, cash prizes, fundraising, vendors. 

June 22nd to 23rd – Old Defiance Days, Sheridan. High Road in concert Saturday evening, June 23rd at 7 pm. 

July 15th to 19th – Hopkins First Christian Church Vacation Bible School, 6 pm each night.

Area Courthouse, Police, and Crime Reports for April 17th, 2024

On April 9th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 1986 Honda Motorcycle driven by Joshua Schroder (39) of Maitland was southbound on Highway ZZ one mile north of Graham at around 7:37 pm. The rear brakes locked up, causing the driver to lose control. The motorcycle crossed the center line, returned back to the southbound lanes, and then traveled off the west side, ejecting Schroder. He received moderate injuries and was taken to Mosaic in St. Joseph. 

On April 9th, Antonio Massary (46) of Maryville pleaded guilty to charges of DWI and Failure to Stop in Nodaway County Associate Circuit Court. He was fined $600 plus court costs by Judge Robert Rice. 

On April 10th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Philip Hanks (49) of Grant City alleging Fraudulent Use of a Credit Device. An affidavit from the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department alleges the defendant, between August 2023 and January 2024, while Administrator of the North Harrison Ambulance District, purchased personal items with the Ambulance District credit card that were not authorized by the board. The total amount alleged spent was $535.75.

On April 10th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Caleb Kinnison (19) of Stanberry alleging Burglary (Felony), Stealing (Felony), and Tampering with Motor Vehicle (Felony). An affidavit from the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Department alleges the defendant stole a motor vehicle and a laptop computer. Bond was set at $10,000, signature bond.

On April 10th, Angel Burris (19) of Ridgeway pleaded guilty to a charge of Careless & Imprudent Driving in Gentry County Associate Circuit Court and fined $265.50 by Judge Rebecca McGinley. The bond money she posted was applied to the fine. 

On April 10th, Randal Hardin (34) of Albany pleaded guilty in Gentry County Associate Circuit Court to charges of Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident) and No Valid License. He was fined $215.50 and sentenced to one year probation by Judge Rebecca McGinley.

On April 10th, Clayton Judd (31) of Ravenwood pleaded guilty to an amended charge of Driving with Defective Bumper in Nodaway County Associate Circuit Court. He was fined $500 by Judge Robert Rice. 

On April 11th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Bradley Smith (23) of Bethany alleging two counts Violation of a Protection Order and Harassment (Felony). Bond was set at $6,000, cash only.

On April 11th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Richard Romero (41) of Independence and Crystle Wilson (36) of Belton, alleging Robbery. An affidavit from the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department alleges that on July 5th, 2023, the defendants stole ammunition, eight firearms, two chainsaws, miscellaneous tools, and silver coins during an armed robbery at a house outside Bethany. Bond for Romero was set at $150,000, cash only. Bond for Wilson was set at $90,000, cash only.

On April 12th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Joshua Synder (41) of Bethany alleging Trespassing and Peace Disturbance. Bond was set at $2,000, cash only.

On April 12th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Jarold Gallaway (50) of Grant City alleging Driving While Revoked (Felony). 

On April 13th at 7:50 pm, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2007 Harley-Davidson Motorcycle driven by David Bartholomew (54) of Des Moines was northbound on Route 169 four miles south of Stanberry when he crossed the center line, skidded, and overturned. Bartholomew received serious injuries and was transported to St. Joseph. Subsequently, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Bartholomew on charges of DWI (Felony), Driving While Suspended, and Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident). 

On April 13th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Francis Bonor (56) of Eagleville alleging Burglary (Felony). An affidavit from the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department alleges the defendant entered an apartment from which he had previously been barred and stole food items. Bond was set at $20,000, cash only.

On April 14th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2012 Harley-Davidson driven by Susan Habben (73) of Bethany was southbound on Route CC and a 1997 GMC Sierra driven by Lloyd Johnson (56) of Gilman was stopped at the stop sign on Route MM ten miles northeast of Gilman City in Harrison County. The Sierra pulled from the stop sign and struck  the Harley-Davidson. Habben received serious injuries and was life flighted to University Health.

On April 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Pamela Wissler (39) of Graham alleging Stealing. An affidavit from the Maryville Police Department alleges the defendant, on two occasions, entered a local pharmacy and stole items from the store. On one occasion, the defendant allegedly stole $140.09 worth of goods after taxes. On another occasion, the defendant allegedly stole $344.15 worth of goods after taxes.

On April 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Lucas Natzke (17) of Shawnee Mission (KS) alleging DWI (Marijuana) and Speeding (82 mph). 

On April 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Charles Macias (35) of Maryville alleging Driving While Suspended (7th Offense, Felony), DWI (Prior), Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway, Failure to Signal, No Insurance, and Failure to Register.

On April 16th, Special Prosecutor Myra Stout filed charges against Nathan Lambert (35) of Crane (MO) in Harrison County alleging Non-Support (Felony). According to the criminal complaint, the amount alleged owed totaled $2,467.55.

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. 

Hopkins Extends Water Payment Deadline

The City of Hopkins has extended the water payment deadline for April until April 30th. Bills will become delinquent on May 1st. The city mailed water bills on April 12th.

The city council held two special council meetings on Wednesday and Monday. Most of the meetings involved closed sessions to discuss personnel issues. Attorney Taryn Henry was at the Monday meeting. 

O Tax was able to get into the accounting system Wednesday afternoon. The board voted to approve March expenses at their Wednesday meeting and certified the election results. Allan Thompson and Rick Gladman were unopposed and the Marijuana sales tax passed. 

At Monday’s meeting, the city approved an additional expense for Evergy which had come in late. They named Mayor Matt Wray and councilman Rick Gladman as the signers on the city’s CD’s. 

North Harrison Board Names Classified Staff, Reorganizes

The North Harrison School Board reorganized following the April 2nd election. Officers named were Matt Graham (President), Cheyanne Pulliam (Vice-President), John Lueken (Treasurer), and Lisa Gibson (Secretary). 

The following personnel were hired or rehired for classified staff: Janie Gates, Lisa Gibson, Gayla Pottorff, Teri Fortner, Ronda Hagan, Missy Krogel, Cassie Long, Mercedez Moad, Mackenzie Milligan, Cyndi Owens, Monica Wilson, Jodi Davis, Tanner Bowen, Kym Mathes, Michelle Briggs, Brandy Graham, Val McBroom, and Emily Scobee.  

Bus Drivers approved were Brent Wilson, Michelle Briggs, Christine Sweeney and Steve Coulson.

Sadie Steele was offered a Probationary Contract.

The board added $500 to the base teacher salary schedule for a new base salary of $34,750 and added $15 per month to the insurance contribution rate.

North Nodaway Names Noncertified Personnel for 2024-25 School Year

The North Nodaway School Board named the non-certified personnel for the 2024-25 school year. Hired or rehired were Kristi Stricker (Middle School/High School Building Secretary), Lindsay Alexander (Elementary Secretary), Lynette Berg (Food Services Director), Chariza Gladman and Cristi Fountain (Assistant Cooks), Dustin Stringer, Ron Thompson, Angela Titus, and Adam James (Bus Drivers), Kayla Baldwin, Kasey Drummond, Stephanie DeLeon, Shai Barber, Emily Higgins, and Kelly Dailey (Paraprofessionals), Bo Hansen (Maintenance Supervisor), Teresa Thompson (Middle School/High School Custodian), Jerald Everhart (Elementary Custodian), and Nicki Herndon (Technology Coordinator).

The board swore in Vicki Riley and Stuart Clements to the board. Jennifer Clements was named Board President, Stan Alexander Vice President, Krista Barcus MSBA Delegate, and Tiffany Whipple as Board Secretary and Treasurer. 

The board voted to once again offer Career Ladder for teachers for the 2024-25 school year.

Graduates were approved for next month’s graduation. They were Daryn Berg, Aydan Blackford, Saryn Brown, Ethan Fry, Tayden Halvin, Preston Hansen, Lauren Herndon, Andrea Jenkins, Madison Leach, Angie Parker, Morgan Pope, Brice Trimble, and Sydney Whipple. The approval is contingent on meeting the graduation requirements established by the State of Missouri and the North Nodaway Board of Education.

The board set the substitute pay at $120 per day.

Elementary Principal Heather Townsend reported that the school had their bus evacuation drills on April 2nd and 3rd. They went over safety protocols and trained new bus captains. These are students who will assist bus drivers in evacuations and emergency situations. They received additional training prior to drills. These are volunteer positions.

Named as bus captains were Lucas Hansen, Clell Clements, and Eliza Clements for Mr. Thompson’s bus; Cooper Chesnut, Carter Forney, Kayden Snuffer, Lucien Rader, and Ariana Owens for Mrs. Titus’ bus; Maddie Leach, Mylee Stringer, and Braxton Dougherty for Mr. Stringer’s bus, and Ava Stump, Ava Steinman, Journi Farnsworth, and Izaiah Farnsworth for Mr. James’ bus.

An eclipse viewing party was held at the school on April 8th.

A Feed the Stampede Food Drive for the new Hopkins Community Pantry was held. The following classes donated food items: PreK (23 items), Kindergarten (23), 1st Grade (72), 2nd Grade (63), 3rd Grade (92), 4th Grade (359), and 5th Grade (66). There was a total of 710 items donated.

The board will approve extra duty assignments and the summer project work list next month. 

Superintendent Chris Turpin reported that he worked on a grant on behalf of the Hopkins CBC concerning the Roxy and is working on two others.

The school is working on the sound and lighting for the stage. Custodian Bo Hansen has prepared the ceiling for Rick Baldwin to install the lighting and electrical. Then, Lanham Music will come in and install the new lighting and sound.

The school is awaiting an exhaust fan at the bus barn. Otherwise, the construction project for the $2.7 million bond issue that voters approved is complete.

Graduation will be May 12th at 3 pm. Seniors last day will be May 3rd and Senior Trip is the following week. 

The school is refinishing the hardwood floors in the elementary. The high school floors will be done in June and the basketball court floors at the end of June.