Courthouse News for March 27th, 2024

On March 19th, Judge Robert Rice sentenced Michael Hull (33) of Maryville to 10 days in jail with credit for time served and 2 years probation for amended charges of Assault and DWI after the defendant pleaded guilty.

On March 20th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Brandon Church (43) of Darlington alleging Forgery (Felony), No Insurance, and No Valid Motorcycle License. Bond was set at $2,000, cash or corporate surety, posted by the defendant. An affidavit from the Gentry County Sheriff’s Department alleges the defendant had placed a fake tag on their motorcycle plate. 

On March 20th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Leslie Potts (35) of Rosendale in Gentry County on charges of DWI and Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident). The Patrol says Potts was driving a 2005 Chevy Impala eastbound on Route 136 2.5 miles north of Stanberry at around 9:18 pm when he failed to negotiate a curve, traveled off the north side of the road, and struck a ditch. Potts received moderate injuries and was taken to Mosaic in Albany. 

On March 21st, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Cody Peery (19) of Albany alleging Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident) and No Seat Belt. 

On March 21st, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Tony Dittemore (31) of Trenton alleging Possession of Burglary Tools (Felony), Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Felony), and Tampering with Motor Vehicle (Felony). Bond was set at $10,000, cash only.

On March 21st, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Suras Rostas (21) of Lebanon (OH) alleging Stealing (Felony). Bond was denied. An affidavit from the Maryville Police Department alleges that the defendant performed a sleight of hand trick to make it look like he was presenting $2,600 for a financial transaction and kept $1,000 for himself. The affidavit alleges the defendant was part of a national sleight of hand theft ring and had been barred from numerous places.

There were three 911 calls regarding a prowler between Maryville and Ravenwood recently. On March 21st, the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Department reported that someone was awakened by someone knocking at around 4:18 am on Highway F. On March 23rd, a 911 caller from Ravenwood reported that their vehicle was stolen. The vehicle was subsequently recovered in Cedar Rapids (IA). On March 24th at around 12:52 am, a resident on State Highway EE reported being awakened by someone knocking. It is unknown if the car theft is related to the prowler calls.

On March 21st, Dillon Bennett (26) of Eagleville pleaded guilty in Harrison County Circuit Court to an amended charge of Stealing and was sentenced to 8 days in jail with credit for time served by Judge Steven Hudson. 

On March 22nd, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Albert Ferguson (39) of Maryville alleging No Valid License (Felony), Failure to Comply with Ignition Interlock Requirements, Failure to Register, and No Insurance. 

On March 23rd at around 12:08 pm, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2020 Honda Odyssey driven by Becky Swinford (38) of Barnard was southbound and a 1998 Dodge 2500 driven by Raymond Morriss (66) of Guilford was northbound on Route N ten miles southeast of Maryville. The Odyssey crossed the center line and sideswiped the Dodge. Swinford and a 14 year old passenger received minor injuries. Morriss was not injured.

On March 23rd, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Wyatt Starmer (25) of Martinsville in Harrison County on charges of DWI and Speeding (78 mph). 

On March 23rd, the Maryville Fire Department reported that they got a call to a structure fire at University Point Apartments in Maryville. There was smoke coming from the roof of this building. Upon arrival, there were victims trapped on the second floor, unable to exit. At least seven occupants were rescued. Firefighters worked the scene for seven hours battling spread due to what the Maryville Fire Department said was old construction methods. They were subsequently dispatched again for a few flareups in concealed spaces. The Jackson Township Fire Protection District and the West Nodaway Fire Protection District assisted. There were no injuries. Northwest Missouri State and the Red Cross ensured that everyone had a place to sleep that night.

On March 25th, Judge Steven Hudson revoked Tanner Sims bond in Harrison County Circuit Court after the defendant was charged by Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt with a new charge of Violation of Protection Order. A new bond was set at $10,000, cash only, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Sims is facing charges of Domestic Assault (Felony) and Resisting Arrest (Felony). In addition, bond for the protection order charge was set at $2,500, cash only.

On March 25th, the Missouri Independent reported that Denny Loudermill of Olathe (KS) filed a defamation lawsuit against Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee alleging the Congressman had falsely referred to him as one of the shooters at the Kansas City Chiefs Victory Parade and referred to him as an “illegal alien.” The lawsuit states that police detained him for “moving too slow” and that people took photos of him and shared them on social media. Loudermill was not charged. The lawsuit seeks $75,000 in damages.

On March 25th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Levi Rodgers (27) of Bethany alleging Speeding (93 mph) and No Valid Motorcycle License. 

On March 26th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Bailey Hayworth (24) of Maryville alleging Stealing (Felony). An affidavit from the Maryville Police Department alleges that while employed at the Maryville Hy-Vee, the defendant stole at least $1,517.33 worth of merchandise from December 2023 to March 2024. Bond was set at $500 signature bond.

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. 

NEN Third Quarter Honor Roll

Must have 3.67 GPA or higher with no D’s or F’s.

Seniors – Dalanie Auffert, Jack Boswell, Jill Boswell, Courtney Faustlin, Paiton Hillyard, Delanny Hopper, Brycen Kennard, Chris Kephart, Grant McIntyre, Aubrey Munns, Tessa Privett, Jeremiah Sparks.

Juniors – Baylie Busby, Sasha Deardorff, Lindsey Jackson, Zach Meyer, Cora Munns, Kenneth Schieber, Landon Wilmes.

Sophomores – Austin Adwell, Jalyn Burns, Skyler Florea, Mylee Wilmes.

Freshmen – Severia Hall, Brianna Meyer, Blair Nelson, Georgia Taylor.

8th Grade – Kynder Florea, Bristol Hicks.

7th Grade – Liam Cordell, Piper Gray, Tucker Kneale, Paizlee Norman, Brady O’Connell, Rylee Scadden, Addisyn Thummel.

Worth County High School Honor Roll for Third Quarter

 HIGH HONOR ROLL

Seniors – Autumn Cousatte, Emily Davis, Ethan Frese, Mitzie Gillespie, Chloe Knight, Tyler New, Brooklyn Richardson, Tuker Riley, Brylee Rush, Kynah Steele, Lincoln Wake.

Juniors – Carter Chapman, Bridgette Hightshoe, Mackenzie Walter.

Sophomores – Brayden Combs, Riley Ridge, Marissa Schmitz.

Freshmen – Kambree Briner, Jessie Chapman, Bo Collins, Sara Fletchall, Evalyn Gilland, Addison Gray, Keira Hardy, Krista Monticue, Caleb New, Hayden Sanders, Ryder Smyser, Emsley Spainhower, Kristen Tracy.

8th Grade – Unique Brown, Paige Chaney, Braelyn Fletchall, JoLynn Hawk, Liam Hayden, Breeanna Ray, Audrey Runde, Megan Tracy.

7th Grade – Camden Gray, Brock Healy, Brooke Monticue, Kennedy Murphy, Brianna Riley, Kynlee Steele.

REGULAR HONOR ROLL

Seniors – Elias Alarcon, Brooke Lininger, Landon Moser, Becca Smith, Kara Staton.

Juniors – Karson Briner, Abbi Brown, Eva Engel, Camdain Frisch, Keaten Morin.

Sophomores – Jace Cameron, Alyssa Clarkson, Katie Fletchall, Brylea Paxson, Matthew Ray, Rayleigh Smith, Brayden Stevens.

Freshmen – Brandon Bever, Arenna Galanakis, Macie Hubbard, Alivia Moyer, Sumer Riley, Cole Ruby.

8th Grade – Trent Adwell, Garin Baker, Brynn Chapman, Maverick Cox, Hartley Fitzgerald, Laura Hansen, Lola Morin, Sam Stephenson.

7th Grade – Bella Blankenship, Conner Chapman, Jordan Dannar, Tucker Fletchall, Kassidy Joslin, Gracie Thurman.

Worth County Elementary Honor Roll for Third Quarter

PERFECT ATTENDANCE

Kindergarten – Haven Briner, Newt Holmes, Ella Davidson, Piper Green, Clewo Jenkins.

First Grade – Bowen Findley, Nolan Gilland, Vance Larson, Mack Maudlin, Malea Ridge, Baylor Sagel, Kyrie Brown, Henry Cass, Sam Clarkson, Randi Harker-Zinn, Mason Steele, Poseidon Thomas.

Second Grade – Cora Davidson, Gracelyn Frisch.

Third Grade – Elley Maudlin, Emery Pickering, Riggin Smyser, Iris Thomas.

Fourth Grade – Desmond Dannar, Chase Davidson, Case Downing, Kyah Joslin, Coy Pickering, Teagan Saville, Ridley Ware.

Fifth Grade – David Wideman.

Sixth Grade – Heather Deardorff, Jarrett Gilland, Jane Hawk, Weston Hill, Hardie Paxson, Hadley Rush, Miles Saville, Memphis Ware.

HIGH HONOR ROLL

Fourth Grade – Desmond Dannar, Hadley Downing, Gwyn Healy, Grayson Mullock.

Fifth Grade – Tatum Allee, Kaeslyn Briner, Kinley Fletchall, Emmett Frisch, Renae Gladstone, Jolee Hauber, Gabbey Maudlin, Aria Oberhauser, Luca Sagel.

Sixth Grade – Kaydence Downing, Jane Hawk, Brecklyn Rush, Hadley Rush.

REGULAR HONOR ROLL

Fourth Grade – Cree Blankenship, Addison Cadle, Chase Davidson, Case Downing, Daden Findley, Mason Hern, Elsie Jenkins, Kyah Joslin, Coy Pickering, Jarrett Rush, Teagan Saville, Ridley Ware.

Fifth Grade – Mitchell Baca, Max Hiatt, Paul Hoff, Mason Moser, Jace Mullock, Alexis Snead, Audra Spainhower.

Sixth Grade – Briella Benson, Hudson Cameron, Heather Deardorff, Jarrett Gilland, Cole Hardy, Jakob Herbert, Paige Hubbard, Catelynn Moyer, Miles Saville, Brooklyn Smith, Gunnar Smith. 

Alfalfa Weevils Arrive Early

The warmer weather has prompted alfalfa weevil larvae to start feeding early, which means growers should be scouting the crop.

Anthony Ohmes, University of Missouri Extension agronomy field specialist, says now through April is the time to walk alfalfa fields to look for larvae activity.

“The economic threshold for alfalfa weevils is an average of one or more larvae per stem, and 30% or more of the plant terminals show feeding damage. If the field’s infestation exceeds this, it may be time to start spraying,” said Ohmes.

Choose labeled insecticides if threshold levels are reached.

Some factors can reduce the efficacy of insecticide applications to control alfalfa weevils. These include:

–Temperatures below 60 F when using pyrethroid insecticides. There are other classes of insecticides that perform better in cool weather.

–Using lower rates of insecticides when larval populations are very high.

–Less than optimal coverage; 20 GPA is recommended, as is proper tip selection.

–Possible development of resistance to pesticide; rotate mode of action being used. There are confirmed populations of weevil larvae that are resistant to pyrethroids.

Be sure to read and follow all label directions, precautions and restrictions for the product you purchase.

Another weevil management option is to harvest early.

“Remember, it is best for the crop not to harvest earlier than 7-10 days before the normal growth stage of one-tenth bloom,” said Ohmes. “This harvest could be done by hay cutting or by grazing.”

MU Extension research has found that mechanical harvesting or grazing cattle can reduce 90% or more of the weevils. If grazing, be cautious of bloat from wet foliage and damage to the crowns from trampling during wet conditions.

Kevin Leedom 1958-2024

Kevin Darrell Leedom, 66, of Pickering, Missouri passed from this life on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at a hospice facility in Kansas City, Missouri, after a short illness.

Kevin was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on January 1, 1958, to Darrell Lloyd and Bernice Loretta (Rowland) Leedom.  He lived in Iowa and moved to Pickering in 1988.  He had his Bachelor of Science degree in Education.

He owned and operated Kevin’s Home Construction for many years.

He was very crafty and enjoyed making things and worked in metal.  He liked riding dirt bikes and doing anything with his grandkids.   He also enjoyed reading and watching TV.

Kevin’s father preceded him in death.

His survivors include his wife, Kelly Ann, of the home, his children, Dakota (Michelle) Leedom, Phoenix, Arizona, Adam Dennis, Osage Beach, Missouri, Aaron (Tracy) Dennis, Kansas City, Missouri, Austen (Joe) Mozier, Modoc, Indiana, and Megan (Max) Stidham, Maryville, Missouri, his mother, Bernice Leedom, Salt Lake City, Utah, and his sister, Darla Nelson, also of Salt Lake City, and his grandchildren.

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

Private family services will be held at a later date.   

Easter Lilies Could Be Dangerous for Cats

A favorite spring flower, the Easter lily, should be kept away from cats. If ingested, it could kill them.

The perennial plant’s white, trumpet-like flowers might not sound the warning that all parts of it are highly toxic to felines.

Tim Evans, University of Missouri Extension veterinary toxicologist, said even small amounts of Easter lilies can be deadly to cats. Eating the leaves or flowers or licking pollen grains can cause cats to develop kidney failure in three to four days. Even drinking water from a vase containing lilies brings serious adverse effects.

Easter lilies are true lilies that grow from bulbs, not tubers. A member of the Lilium genus, the Easter lily (Lilium longiflorum), has a single stem with leaves whirling around it. True lilies bloom for a week or more. Other Lilium and Hemerocallis (daylily) species can also prove toxic.

“With spring planting, Mother’s Day and prom season, and graduation ceremonies right around the corner, it is important to know that other members of the Lilium genus and daylilies or Hemerocallis species also can prove extremely toxic to cats,” said Evans.

Early signs of poisoning include vomiting, lack of appetite and lethargy. Evans suggests pet owners consult a veterinarian if they suspect poisoning. Veterinarians likely will prescribe medications or give intravenous fluids, he said.

Also, keep cats away from outside areas where lilies grow. “Any evidence of damage to the leaves or flowers of ‘true’ lilies where cats might be roaming, the presence of lily pollen on the face of a cat with a guilty look on its face or cat vomitus containing lily parts are all potential causes for concern and require a call to your local veterinarian,” Evans said.

Easter lilies became popular in American homes after World War I, said MU Extension state horticulturist David Trinklein. They originated in Japan, where they are symbols of hope and purity.

Despite a sales window of only two weeks, lilies rank fourth in the wholesale potted plant market in the United States, behind poinsettias, mums and azaleas.

Potted Easter lilies can be planted in Missouri as soon as the ground can be worked, said Trinklein. They will bloom the following June.

Easter lily is not the only lily that can cause potentially deadly kidney disease in cats. The Food and Drug Administration lists the following true lilies as dangerous to cats: Asiatic lily, daylily, Easter lily, Japanese show lily, oriental lily, rubrum lily, Stargazer lily, tiger lily and wood lily. Other lilies that are not true lilies, such as lily-of-the-valley and the gloriosa, or flame lily, also may cause health issues.

In addition to your pet’s regular veterinarian, the Pet Poison Helpline (www.petpoisonhelpline.com) and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control) are both available for emergency consultations (fees may apply) as well as free online information about toxic household risks.

First US Goat Infected with Avian Influenza

A University of Missouri Extension specialist urges caution among producers in Missouri after a newborn goat in Minnesota recently tested positive for the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), the first case of HPAI in goats in the U.S.

“There is no immediate threat to sheep and goat producers in the state of Missouri,” said David Brown, MU Extension small-ruminant specialist. “However, producers should practice strict biosecurity measures to prevent transmission on their farm.”

Minnesota’s Board of Animal Health announced that the infected goat shared the same pasture and pond as poultry. The Minnesota goats were tested after the producer noticed unusual deaths in newborn goats. The goat lived on the same farm where there had been an outbreak of HPAI in February.

Brown urges producers to quarantine new additions to the herd and acquire animals from known disease-free sources. “Producers should prevent the roaming of poultry to pasture areas that are grazed by other livestock species,” he said. “A separate water source should be provided for poultry and waterfowl.”

The Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory tested one of the goats in the Minnesota herd, and the result revealed influenza A. Subsequent tests at a USDA lab in Ames, Iowa, identified the virus as H5N1, which has been circulating in wild birds and poultry in multiple countries, including the U.S. There is an ongoing investigation on the farm by USDA health officials.

According to Minnesota’s state veterinarian, the spring migration poses a higher-risk transmission period for poultry, and there is the possibility of the virus infecting other animals on farms with multiple species. Research has shown that mammals appear to be dead-end hosts and are unlikely to spread HPAI further.

“Report any sudden livestock death to health officials and consult your local extension offices to establish on-farm biosecurity measures,” Brown said.

For more information, visit the American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners biosecurity tool kit resources. The tool kit is available for download at aasrp.org.

Biden Wins in Missouri Democratic Caucuses

The Missouri Democratic Party has announced the final results of the party-run presidential preference primary, held Saturday, March 23.

With nearly 20,000 total votes cast in the Missouri Democratic Party’s party-run presidential preference primary, President Biden won with 85.3 percent of the vote, winning 61 of 64 pledged delegates to the Democratic National Convention. 

“The Missouri Democratic Party congratulates President Biden on his decisive victory in our party-run presidential preference primary last weekend. President Biden’s Administration has been focused on investing in the people and communities who need it most and has a long list of accomplishments to tout heading into November. From capping the cost of insulin at $35 for Missouri seniors to the over $2.8 billion in funds for infrastructure projects in Missouri communities, including $122 million to replace Chester Bridge in Perry County, $31 million to replace the bridge over Table Rock Lake, and $7.8 million to repave MO 53 in Butler County from Business 67- Route 25, Missourians are seeing the real impacts of the Biden Administrations’ investment on their daily lives,” said Missouri Democratic Party Chair Russ Carnahan.  

“In spite of the attack on our voting rights by the Republican State Legislature, turnout in the Missouri Democratic Party’s party-run presidential primary exceeded that of the Republican caucus event, and Democrats used this election as an opportunity to start organizing early and generated grassroots enthusiasm across the state as we head into the 2024 election cycle. Over 450 Missouri Democrats volunteered to organize a statewide election with nearly 100 in-person voting locations to ensure as many of their neighbors could cast their vote for their preferred Democratic nominee for president as possible. Missouri Democrats are fired up and ready to fight in 2024.”

Rob Claycomb Resigns from North Harrison

At the regular Board of Education Meeting Wednesday, the North Harrison School Board accepted the resignation of Rob Claycomb. He had taught and coached at North Harrison for 17 years and had started up the baseball program.  In other personnel moves the board hired Stephen Coulson as a bus driver and Kayka Wilson and Tate Richardson as summer student employees. 

Randy Mecca presented to the board on the high school math classes. Tabrey Kimbrough reported on the Title I and Special Ed programs. 

The board approved various MET insurance plans to be offered to qualifying staff for the 2024-25 school year.

Elementary Principal Susan Allen reported that Mrs. Norris received a grant to purchase books for her classroom. The elementary is looking at handwriting resources for preschool through third grades. Four different teachers are finishing up LETRS training. Staff is working on setting goals for the upcoming school year. A Family Literacy Night was held on March 21st. Third through sixth graders are preparing for the MAP test. 

Superintendent Ethan Sickels reported that the school will have a staff and board appreciation dinner at the Eagleville Youth Center. The school drew Blak Barrel Catering and will rotate between vendors for future meals. It will be April 28th at 6:30 pm.

Preliminary work on the budget for 2024-25 is starting. There are uncertainties in federal, state, and local funding. The official budget will be approved in May. 

Insurance rates will go up 3.6% for next year.

Bo Collins Wins Twice, Riley Ridge Wins High Jump at Early Bird; Gerken 3rd in 100 Hurdles for Shamrocks

Bo Collins won twice in the throwing events while Riley Ridge picked up where she left off last year by winning the High Jump at the Worth County Early Bird Thursday. For North Harrison, Erica Gerken picked up where she left off last year in the 100 Hurdles and Wyatt Maize got a strong showing in the Triple Jump. 

For the girls, East Atchison had 83, South Harrison 73, Pattonsburg 63, Nodaway Valley 50, Mound City 46, King City 46, Bedford 39, Worth County 39, Platte Valley 39, Albany 33, Gilman City 31, Stanberry 19, Winston 8, East Harrison 8, North Harrison 6, NEN 2, and Tri-County 1.

Mound City looks like it might be a team to beat on the boys side as they ran away with the meet with 151 points, over twice that of its nearest competitor. Bedford had 72, Worth County 61, Stanberry 61, Albany 56, Platte Valley 46, East Atchison 27, Winston 23, Nodaway Valley 21, North Andrew 20, South Harrison 16, King City 12, North Harrison 11, NEN 8, North Nodaway 3, and East Harrison 1. Out of the top four teams, Mound City does not have baseball, Stanberry will not offer it until next year, and Bedford, like other Iowa schools, plays it in the summer. Worth County was the top team of all the schools that offer baseball during the spring.

For the girls, Emma Spencer was fourth in the 100 with a time of 14.11. Brooklyn Richardson was right behind her at fifth with a time of 14.19. Emma Spencer was sixth in the 200 with a time of 30.84. Riley Ridge was fifth in the 100 Hurdles with a time of 18.97. 

The 4x100 that won state and broke a 39 year old record held by the 1984 Worth County squad has three of their four runners back, but has a big hole to fill with the graduation of Hailey Adwell. The team of Brooklyn Richardson, Keira Hardy, Rayleigh Smith, and Emma Spencer was third with a time of 54.22. 

Riley Ridge matched a personal best and won the High Jump with a height of 1.55 meters. One of the closest races involving Worth County involved the Pole Vault. Eva Engel and Ava Barnes (Mound City) left the rest of the competition in the dust and both cleared 3.20 meters. Neither could clear 3.36, and neither had an advantage in tiebreaks, so they had to do a sudden death match to determine the winner. Eva Engel won with a height of 3.28 as she cleared it and Barnes couldn’t. 

Kara-Jean Staton was fifth in the Shot Put with a throw of 8.90 meters. She was sixth in the Discus with a throw of 28.80 meters. Autumn Cousatte was sixth in the Javelin with a throw of 27.13 meters.

For the boys, Landon Moser was fourth in the 100 with a time of 12.66. Tyler New was seventh in the 200, but got a personal best with a time of 24.79. Lucas Frisch was third in the 110 Hurdles with a time of 18.02. Brayden Combs was sixth with a personal best time of 19.73. Lucas Frisch was third in the 300 Hurdles with a time of 45.28. 

The 4x100 team of Andrew Griffin, Landon Moser, Bo Collins, and Lucas Frisch was third with a time of 47.01. The 4x200 team of Tyler New, Cole Ruby, Bo Collins, and Wyatt Hill was fourth with a time of 1:45.33. 

Andrew Griffin was eighth in the High Jump but matched a personal best with a height of 1.60 meters. Brayden Combs was fifth in the Pole Vault with a height of 2.74 meters. Wyatt Hill was eighth in tiebreaks, but got a personal best with a height of 2.74 meters. 

Landon Moser was sixth in the Long Jump with a jump of 5.63 meters. Moser was sixth in the Triple Jump with a jump of 11.63 meters.

The highlight of the day for the boys was Bo Collins in the throwing events. He won the Shot Put handily, getting a throw of 11.94 meters. And in the Discus, he beat his nearest competitor by over five meters with a throw of 39.90. Tyler New ran away with the Javelin with a throw of 41.70 meters. 

NEN

Baylie Busby was sixth in the High Jump with a height of 1.45 meters. Severia Hall got a personal best in the Triple Jump with a jump of 6.50 meters. Dalanie Auffert was sixth in the Shot Put with a throw of 8.88 meters. Dalanie Auffert finished eighth in the Discus, but got a personal best throw of 27.50 meters. Baylie Busby was eighth in the Javelin, but got a personal best throw of 26.13 meters. For the boys, Kyler Scadden was second in the Javelin with a personal best throw of 37.35 meters.

North Nodaway

Jordan DeLeon was eighth in the 300 Hurdles, but got a personal best with a time of 50.06. He was fourth in the High Jump with a height of 1.65 meters. 

North Harrison

Erica Gerken picked up where she left off last year in the 100 Hurdles. By the end of the year last year, she was placing after starting the year at 22 seconds; this year, she was third with a time of 18.70. Her goal is to break the school record this year.

For the boys, the 4x100 team of Kolton Graham, Lane Graham, Evan Schreiber, and Wyatt Maize was sixth with a time of 50.77. They will be a force to be reckoned with as everyone on that squad returns next year. The 4x200 squad placed as well, and they will return everyone next year as well. The team of Evan Schreiber, Landon Johnson, Noah Guy, and Lane Graham was sixth with a time of 1:49.50. The 4x400 team of Kolton Graham, Tate Richardson, Landon Johnson, and Lane Graham was sixth with a time of 4:18. 

A freshman, Wyatt Maize, made an impressive debut in the Triple Jump, getting second with a jump of 12.44 meters. He is following in the footsteps of Tyson Gibson, who dominated that event previously for the Shamrocks. Griffin Dougherty got a personal best in the Shot Put with a throw of 8.87 meters.

Mustang Baseball Shows Improvement but Triple Play Sparks Hawks to 5-0 Win

North Nodaway’s baseball team, still searching for their first win, showed some improvement against the three headed monster of Gilman City, but a triple play by the Hawks that killed North Nodaway’s most promising rally in the first inning sparked them for the rest of the bitterly cold afternoon as they raised their record to 2-1 with a 5-0 win over North Nodaway. The Hawks upgraded this year, adding Pattonsburg to the coop along with 1-2 kids from North Daviess who tag along every year.

After being lit up 17-7 by North Harrison, 12-1 by Plattsburg, and 18-0 by Rock Port, North Nodaway expected little different when they took the field against the Hawks. But to their own surprise, they started off well as Brice Trimble walked and Trevin Wyllie reached on an error to put runners on first and second. But disaster struck as Daryn Berg struck out. Trimble and Wyllie, not knowing that a third strike is an automatic out with first base occupied and less than two out, took off for third and second. Trimble was out in a rundown between second and third and then Wyllie was out in a rundown between first and second.

From there, Hawk pitcher Landon Preston took control, pounding the plate and keeping the Mustangs off the board for the whole game. But meanwhile, Mustang pitcher Ethan Fry, with nothing to lose, decided to go out and have fun, befuddling Hawk batters all day with his nasty breaking ball and keeping them off balance. He gave up two runs in the Hawk first after hitting a couple of batters, but then got out of the inning after striking out Daltyn Sperry and getting Jeremy Pittsenbarger to ground out to Blaine Clements.

In a shakeup, Aydan Blackford moved from catcher to left field where he had played occasionally in the past, where he showed a lot of mobility and ran down Landon Preston’s drive in the first inning for the first out. Ridge Clements moved behind the plate to catch Fry.

North Nodaway got good swings all day against Griffith, but hit it right at people. In the second, Blaine Clements’ shot turned into a diving catch by shortstop Camden Griffith. In the Hawk second, Jesse Smith walked and stole second. Daryn Berg caught Drayson McCrary’s drive in right, but Alex Young singled in Smith to make it 3-0.

In the Mustang third, Ridge Clements hit a tricky grounder between first and second, but Hawk first baseman Camden Mossburg and second baseman Alex Young pulled a perfect 4-3 play with Young hustling to first to get an out. With two outs, Brice Trimble singled to center, but Trevin Wyllie, who was the chief cheerleader for the Mustangs all day, hit a laser beam but right at Camden Griffith at short for the third out.

In the Hawk third, Daltyn Sperry turned on one of Fry’s breaking balls and got one of the few good swings the blue shirts got against him, crushing it into the wind and over the left field fence to make it 4-0.

Gilman City threatened in the fourth as they got two on with two out after Gage Iddings reached on an error. But Trevin Wyllie bailed out the Mustangs when he caught Camden Mossburg’s fly ball to end it. Alex Young at second once again robbed Ridge Clements in the fifth by diving and stopping his hard grounder and threw him out.

With two outs in the Hawk sixth, Landon Preston doubled to right center and Gage Iddings singled him home to make it 5-0 before Mustang first baseman Preston Hansen made a hustle play to beat Mossburg to the bag for the third out. 

North Nodaway mounted a threat in the seventh as Blaine Clements hit a Texas leaguer behind second for a base hit and Ethan Fry hit a shot off Preston’s glove into no-man’s land to put runners on first and second with nobody out. But Preston threw to the back runner and picked Fry off first, and then Preston Hansen grounded out and Ridge Clements struck out to end it.

***

Cody Jenkins, the regular head coach, was not there for North Nodaway. Assistant Cody Bix managed the team, assisted by Roger Johnson.

***

Landon Preston pitched for the Hawks, and his brother, Kyler was one of the umpires. “I can’t get rid of him,” said Landon, who played with Kyler last year.

***

In North Nodaway’s first game, against North Harrison, Jerry Gilpatrick was one of the Shamrock pitchers while his dad, Josh Gilpatrick, was umpiring behind the plate. Naturally, Jerry did all he could to try to work his dad for some calls. “I’m used to it,” said Josh.

David Hunt 1947-2024

Community, Family, Faith, and John Deere

David Leroy Hunt was born to Jeramiah and Virginia (Foland) Hunt on March 26th 1947.  He was born in Maryville, MO but grew up, farmed, and lived all of his life in Grant City, MO.  He went to elementary school in Grant City and graduated from Grant City High School in 1965. He married Mary Kay Owens June 1st 1968 at the Grant City Methodist Church. They raised their two sons Craig and Eric on a farm just a few miles down the road from where David grew up.

Farming with his brother Paul with John Deere tractors was not just a vocation, it was something he loved to do and part of who he was.  When there was spare time he enjoyed tractor pulling, reading, and watching his granddaughters Rikky, Haley and Braidy in all of their activities. He also enjoyed watching Paw Patrol with Morgan and taking her to chore with him. He had gotten to meet and spend time with his new great grandson Weston and was looking forward to meeting the next great grand.

He was very involved in community and charity work just a few of which included the Worth County Ambulance Board where he served as an ambulance driver, an EMT and on the board, 911 Board, one of the founding members of the Grant City Lions Club, Extension Council, Grant City Cemetery Board, Mt. Vernon Cemetery Caretaker, and he was a member of the United Methodist Church where he served in several leadership positions.

David Hunt was a man that put his faith first, then family, friends, neighbors and his community, all ahead of himself.

I can remember years ago I was renting pasture east of David and Mary Kay’s home place and the fence between us on my landlords side wasn’t anything special. I would have a cow get out on David and I would drive over to tell him. He would say “don’t worry about her, she’ll go home when she gets ready or we will get her someday when it’s handy.” The next thing you know he was calling and say “I got the cow in and already, had my trailer on so I took her back and put her in your pasture.”

David was the guy who, when the cemetery needed bladed out, instead of calling the city or asking someone else to do it, he just crawled in one of his John Deere tractors and drove to town and did it himself. 

David was the guy that would bring every tractor he had to town to help get ready for and put on a tractor pull, spending 3 days doing it for the community to enjoy as he himself did too.

David would come to my place in the spring to pick up seed corn, he would never take it all at once. He would say “just give me enough for today and we’ll see what tomorrow brings” or he might say “not going to plant much today, we gotta quit early to go to Rikky, Haley or Braidy’s ball game. I remember the last thing David would always say before leaving was “Okay, we’ll see ya.”

David Hunt was the guy that would stop planting his corn to help you plant yours. 

He truly did live out:

Mark 12:30-31 – New King James Version

30: And you shall love the Lord with all your heart, with all your soul, with your mind, and with all your strength’ This is the first commandment. 31: and the second, like it, is this: “you shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.”

David is survived by his wife Mary Kay of the home, sons Craig (Sheila) Hunt and Eric Hunt all of Grant City, granddaughters Rikky (Clayton) Wilmes of Conception, MO, Haley (Levi) Boulting, Braidy Hunt, and Morgan Hunt all of Grant City, MO, and great-grandson Weston Wilmes. Sister-in-law Pam Hunt of Grant City, MO and sister-in-law Norma (Larry) Cousin of Coffeyville, TX and several nieces and nephews, cousins, and extended families.

Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City, Missouri. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Monday, March 25, 2024 at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Grant City Cemetery.

Two Citizens Protest Grant City Ordinance Enforcement

Two people, Kenny Farmer and Bryce Maudlin, came to the Grant City Council Meeting Wednesday to protest what they saw as selective enforcement of city ordinances. Farmer said that the city was wasting money taking people with junk and/or vehicles in their yard when they should be worrying about collecting delinquent taxes. The city discussed delinquent taxes after Farmer left. Maudlin said that he was helping a friend clean up his junk and that he came to the meeting in homes of reaching a common ground, but that clearly the council was not going to budge.

Farmer said that every single one of the vehicles in his yard was operable, there were other places that were much worse off than his place was, and that there was a problem with businesses operating in residential areas and residents living in areas meant for businesses. 

Mayor Debbie Roach, City Administrator Meggan Brown, and council members explained to Farmer that in one case, the property owner got a letter, that one property in question was being cleaned up, and that the city draws up a list of properties to go after based on a priority list. “When you have 10 cars on your property, you draw attention,” Brown said. The city bases its decisions on who to send letters to based on complaints. Both Brown and Roach make trips around the city to identify properties in violation of city ordinances. “Everybody on our list is eventually going to get a letter,” said Roach. “Every city has ordinances. It’s no different in other towns. You’re responsible for knowing the ordinances. It’s the law.” She said that people could get a copy of the ordinances at City Hall. “How am I so high on the priority list? I live in the ghetto,” said Farmer.

Maudlin said he worked full time and then helped people clean up their property. “All I’m doing is help other people clean their properties,” he said. But Roach responded, “Putting it on your property is not helping.” Roach and council members added that Maudlin could do whatever he wants with his junk as long as he gets it out of city limits. 

The council voted to authorize the following letter to be included in the April city bills:

To all Grant City residents:

The City of Grant City is like any other city, town, or municipality all across the nation. We have ordinances and rules and have had for many years.

You were all aware that these ordinances and rules existed when you chose to live here. We do not pick and choose. We prioritize issue and go off of complaint based situations. Your neighbors and other residents should not have to be afraid to speak up about issues that affect their property values, the aesthetic appeal of their street, or neighborhood. They do not want to drive up to their home or look out their window and see junk cars, piles of junk, tall weeds, trash, etc. They don’t want to listen to barking dogs, smell goats, cows, or other animals or worry about their children being bitten by a stray dog.

You cannot move to the city and expect to do whatever you please or to be left alone if you are in violation of an ordinance. We understand there are lots of people and properties in violation of numerous ordinances, but we cannot afford to take everyone to court at the same time, so therefore, we prioritize. The ordinances are in place for the safety and well being of our citizens. Please be considerate of others before making decisions that impact their property as well as yours. If you receive a letter, please just do the right thing and abate the issue.

With over $66,000 in past due taxes and an estimate of over $933,000 to demolish derelict buildings, we cannot afford to spend our funds trying to get people to do the right thing and follow our ordinances and rules.

You live in a community with some of the cheapest utilities around. We have a great school system, wonderful churches, good healthcare, and many other amenities that other small communities do not have. We are blessed in so many ways, and we as a council appreciate all of those things and the good citizens that live in our community.

We have dog and animal ordinances, abandoned/unlicensed vehicle ordinances, traffic ordinances, building ordinances, health ordinances, and many others. You need a building permit if you are going to construct a fence or build a permanent structure along with other permits.

If you would like to view our ordinances, they can be found on www.grantcitymo.com under Government or you can stop by City Hall to read them.

Thank You!

Mayor and City Council

Attorney Taryn Henry is sending five followup letters of violation to people, and City Administrator Meggan Brown reported that she plans to send 12-15 new letters of violation.

Past due taxes were discussed. There are $8,836.53 worth of delinquent taxes, including penalties. Delinquent taxes of three or more years total $42,607.80, including penalties. People who are no longer residents or who are deceased owe a total of $23,036.04, including penalties. Additional penalties will apply at the end of the month. 

City Administrator Meggan Brown reported that she has ordered no parking signs for the city.

The city is in the process of getting lead line work rebid due to getting bids too early. 

The city will be getting the first payment for the wastewater grant. Construction is estimated to start on November 2024 and finish around March 2026. 

A new spring cleanup day will be held sometime in April. There will be a dumpster at the city barn, and they will collect tires again this year. 

Public Works Director Carl Staton reported that they read meters and did locates, cleaned up on High Street from the Water Line project, and removed gas service from Kerwin’s big house on Jersey Street. They hauled gravel to a few places that needed it. Three gas meters were replaced with new ones. There was a gas leak at the Fletchall house that burned on Main Street. Riley is working on gas classes, and Tyson and Riley are working on water classes. The council voted to authorize up to 15 loads of gravel. The council agreed to let Staton attend Mango Safety Summit from June 26th to 28th.

Ryan Fletchall reported there was a lift pump down by the Glenn Hughes shop. One of the seals blew out. If they rebuild it, it will cost $2,500 and a replacement will cost $8,000 to $15,000. The council authorized him to repair it.

The auditor came for the 2023 audit and will get the report to the city as soon as the audit is complete. 

The council voted to have C&H Electric fix the can lighting as well as the rest of the lighting.

The council voted to halve the water bills of Jean Hanks and Jessica Spainhower due to leaks.

Clerk Farrah Richey reported on concerns Gina McNeese had over the operation of the pool. Alderman Lenny Campbell reported that he had a few citizens who wanted to put up shade in the baby pool area.

The council decided to allow Public Works Director Carl Staton to hire seasonal help on an as needed basis from May 1st to October 1st. Work hours will be approximately 8 to 20 hours a week.

Northwest Presented Rebate Check from Evergy

Energy efficiency is paying off for Northwest Missouri State University.

During Thursday’s Board of Regents meeting at the University, Evergy, which supplies the Northwest campus with electrical energy, presented the institution with a large check for $409,646 to celebrate its energy-efficient projects during the last five years that have saved the equivalent of a year’s worth of energy in 254 homes.

“Evergy’s incentive rebates have allowed Northwest to accelerate a variety of projects aimed at increasing energy efficiencies,” Dan Haslag, Northwest’s assistant vice president of facility services, said. “As energy conservation is an important element of our institution’s sustainability plan, we look forward to ongoing opportunities through Evergy’s energy savings program.”

Northwest began participating in Evergy’s Business Energy Savings Program in 2019. Since then, the University has completed nearly two dozen projects and used Evergy rebates to make energy-efficient upgrades that reduce energy usage and cost.

Among the enhancements Northwest achieved, the University completed LED lighting upgrades in Colden Hall, Wells Hall, South Complex, Garrett-Strong Science Building, B.D. Owens Library and the J.W. Jones Student Union.

Additionally, Northwest completed energy audits and a retro-commissioning of the HVAC systems in Hudson and Perrin residence halls, South Complex, Tower Suites and the Student Union.

“We are very grateful to Evergy and their energy savings program as it has allowed Northwest to stretch our budgets for improvements to our deferred maintenance backlog, while also enhancing the aesthetics, comfort and quality of learning and living spaces for our students,” Scott Kuhlemeyer, Northwest’s director of capital programs, said.

This spring, Northwest is beginning a multi-year project that will transform and modernize the campus’s central plant. The total cost is estimated to be no more than $105 million and it will take two to three years to complete, making it the largest capital project in the institution’s history.

Shirley Loch 1935-2024

Shirley Marie Loch, 88, of Maryville, Missouri, passed from this life on Sunday, March 24, 2024, at the Mosiac Medical Center in Maryville.

Shirley was born on April 9, 1935, in Hopkins, Missouri, her parents were Lowell A. and Inna Y. (Clymens) Hudson, and they preceded her in death.  She was also preceded in death by her infant brother, John Adrian.  

Shirley graduated high school in Hopkins, and worked many years in production at NEBS, in Maryville.  

On March 25, 1953, Shirley was united in marriage to Harlan E. Loch, in Gravity, Iowa.  They had lived for a time in Providence, Rhode Island, while Harlan was in the US Navy, then for many years in Hopkins, later moving to Maryville.  Shirley was a member of the First Baptist Church, Hopkins, Missouri.  

Harlan passed away on December 26, 1976.

She was an outdoor person and liked being out in the air.  She liked to travel and to go to Las Vegas.  She had dealt in antiques and she and sister had a booth at the Jesse James Antique Mall in St. Joseph, she also liked yard sales.  

Her survivors include her 4 children, Sherry Calhoun, Phoenix, Arizona, Vicky (John) Judah, Maryville, Missouri, Greg (Maureen Wilding) Loch, Kansas City, Missouri, and Pamela Barry, Canton, Georgia, her 3 sisters, Millie Allen, Siam, Iowa, Virginia Westergaard, Olean, Missouri, and Jessie (John) Dalbey, Corvallis, Montana, 7 grandchildren, Maggie (Brent) Rollins, Rachel (Brandon) Heck, Katie (Austin) Parman, Derek Loch, Bailey Herbst, Sarah (Kasey) Wright, and Sam (Ashley) Calhoun, 11 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.  The family extends a special thank you to her friend and neighbor, Bruce Bishop. 

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

Graveside services and burial will be at 1:00 PM, on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at the Hopkins Cemetery, Hopkins, Missouri.  

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to Mosaic Hospice, Maryville, Missouri.

Area Courthouse, Police, and Crime Reports for March 20th, 2024

On March 12th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department reported that Holly England (32) of Beaconsfield was northbound on P68 when she drifted off the road, entered a ditch, hit an embankment, and went airborne, landing on the driver’s side. She had to be mechanically extracted by the Mount Ayr Fire Department. She was airlifted from the scene. 

On March 12th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Stephanie Barker (32) of Clarinda alleging Burglary (Felony). 

On March 12th at around 1:54 pm, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2016 Dodge Journey driven by Angela McIntosh (30) of Bethany was northbound on Route D two miles north of Martinsville when it attempted to turn left into a private drive on a hillcrest and collided with a 2020 GMC 2500 driven by Keven Johnson (48) of Jamesport coming from the other direction. McIntosh received moderate injuries and was taken to Mosaic in Albany. Johnson was not injured. 

On March 12th, the Western Missouri US Attorney’s Office announced the federal indictment of a Stanberry person on a weapons charge:

A Stanberry, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for illegally possessing an unregistered sawed-off shotgun.

Erin L. Graves, 44, was charged in a two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo.

Today’s indictment alleges that Graves was in possession of a Remington 20-gauge shotgun, which had a barrel of less than 18 inches in length, on Jan. 15, 2024. Graves is charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possessing an unregistered firearm.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Graves has five prior felony convictions for stealing, two prior felony convictions for driving while suspended or revoked, two prior felony convictions for tampering with a motor vehicle, two prior felony convictions for burglary, and prior felony convictions for possession of a controlled substance and resisting arrest.

On March 13th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against David Chandler (43) of King City alleging Receiving Stolen Property. An affidavit from the Gentry County Sheriff’s Department alleges the defendant stole a guitar from a church. 

On March 13th, Special Prosecutor Tara Cluck filed charges against Jesse Snead (35) of Albany in Gentry County alleging Non-Support.

On March 13th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Theresa Marcione (43) of Mount Ayr on charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Assault. Bond was set at $600, cash only. 

On March 13th, Trenton Barnett (39) of Bethany pleaded guilty to an amended charge of Assault in Harrison County Associate Circuit Court. He was given a Suspended Imposition of Sentence and sentenced to two years Probation by Judge Jay Hemenway.

On March 13th, Judge Jay Hemenway revoked the bond of Wendy Baker (45) of Ridgeway for failure to report. She is facing four counts Tampering with a Utility Meter. A new bond was set at $1,000, cash only. 

On March 14th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Angela Herman (55) of St. Joseph alleging Driving While Suspended (Felony). 

On March 14th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Ventrell Wright (42) of Lafayette (LA) alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony), Speeding, and No Valid License. Bond was set at $15,000, with the defendant to be released on their own recognizance. 

On March 14th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Pete Welch (42) of Bedford alleging DWI, No Plates, and No Insurance.

On March 14th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Veron Nellis (46) of Arispe (IA) on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony), Possession of Burglary Tools, Possession of Controlled Substance (Cannabidol), two counts Unlawful Possession of Prescription Drug, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond was set at $10,000, cash only. 

On March 14th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2004 Chevy Colorado driven by Matthew Marshall (25) of Princeton was eastbound on Route M and Vintage Avenue four miles east of Denver when he skidded, traveled off the south side, down an embankment, and struck multiple trees. He received serious injuries and was lifeflighted to Mercy Hospital in Des Moines. 

On March 15th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Jaslyn Hall (19) of Stanberry alleging Speeding (94 mph), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Marijuana.

On March 15th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Angelina Coffelt (37) of Skidmore alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony). Bond was set at $10,000, Signature Bond. 

On March 16th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Jeffrey Jackson (40) of Excelsior Springs on a charge of Tampering with Motor Vehicle (Felony). Bond was set at $25,000, cash only. 

On March 16th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Jaquan Sinclair (27) of Lumberton (NC) in Harrison County on a charge of Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony). Charges were filed the same day by Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt. Bond was set at $15,000, cash only.  

On March 17th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Debra Parsons (37) of Ravenwood in Nodaway County on a charges of DWI.

On March 17th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Peyton Buhman (26) of King City in Gentry County on charges of DWI and a Window Tint Violation.

On March 18th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2017 Buick Encore driven by Karen Klemme (80) of Maryville was southbound on Route 71 eight miles south of Maryville at around 2:04 pm. The vehicle crossed the median, crossed the northbound lanes of 71, and traveled off the east side into a ditch. She received moderate injuries and was taken to Mosaic in St. Joseph.

On March 18th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Tanner Davison (23) of Gravity (IA) in Nodaway County on charges of DWI and Careless & Imprudent Driving. 

On March 18th, Jeffrey Rogers (57) of St. Louis pleaded guilty to Forgery. He was given a sentence of five years in the Missouri Department of Corrections by Judge Corey Herron. Judge Herron suspended the execution of the sentence and sentenced the defendant to five years supervised probation. The defendant must make restitution of $11,880 through the Nodaway County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office along with a $75 Prosecuting Attorney fee and $46 to the Crime Victims Fund. 

On March 19th, Trenton Barnett (39) of Bethany was arrested in Harrison County on a Decatur County Warrant for Harassment. Bond was denied. 

On March 19th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Jason Perkins (46) of Bethany alleging Statutory Rape (Felony). 

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. 

Pros and Cons of Sports Coop Expansion With NEN Discussed

Pros and cons of expanding the sports cooperative agreements between Worth County and Northeast Nodaway were discussed. 

Recently, Northeast Nodaway surveyed students to determine interest in participating in sports. Only six boys out of 29 coming into school for next year expressed interest in going out for boys basketball. Injuries and eligibility issues mean that Northeast Nodaway is at risk for not fielding a boys basketball team for next year. 

Numbers have also been an issue on the girls side as well. Last season, Worth County started with nine girls but finished with seven. This was their fewest numbers since the 1991-92 season. Northeast Nodaway started with nine girls this year, but finished with seven. This meant neither team could practice against five players. 

The participation numbers have been better for the junior high basketball programs. Worth County had 14 girls and 15 boys out for junior high. Northeast Nodaway had 10 boys and 10 girls out for basketball. This meant that both teams could scrimmage against each other.

Recently, NEN Superintendent Brenda Dougan sent the following letter to parents after reaching out to Worth County:

Dear Parents/Guardians,

As we do each year, athletic teams have been reviewed to determine participation numbers for each sport at each level. For the 2024-25 school year, our high school boys basketball team has some very low numbers. Due to many reasons including eligibility and injuries, we are at risk for not being able to complete the entire basketball season with just NEN athletes. Quality practices are also very difficult to maintain with low numbers. This started a conversation on how we can assure that our athletes will continue to have an opportunity to participate.

Due to the successful cooperative we have had with Worth County for football and baseball, the thought of expanding our sports cooperative with Worth County is worth exploring. A few weeks ago, we approached Worth County Administration with a request to discuss the possibility of expanding our sports cooperative. Together, we are evaluating the pros and cons of expanding the cooperative effort and will share our findings with the community before any final decisions are made.

We understand that there are individuals with very strong opinions on both sides of this topic. Both districts have a responsibility to prioritize the best interests of their students. We plan to have more discussions and a well thought-out plan for continuing a strong athletic program before disseminating any information.

Worth County Superintendent Chris Healy sent a similar letter to parents. The topic was brought up for discussion at Monday’s regular school board meeting. No votes were taken; the floor was opened for discussion.

Enrollment at Worth County has declined from 440 in 2000 to 275 this year. Northeast Nodaway has also seen a decline. 

Pros include a better chance of being competitive. Worth County has one of the lower enrollments in the Grand River Conference while St. Joseph Christian has a stated goal of expanding to 700 students from Kindergarten to 12th grade, bigger than what Worth County was following the consolidation between Grant City and Sheridan in 1976. 

Numbers would not be as big of an issue. This year, Worth County was barely able to field a junior high softball program, with the school begging three sixth graders to come out. “I dealt with that when I was in school,” said one board member, Amanda Gilland. “It was a disaster.” Platte Valley, Nodaway Valley, and East Atchison have emerged as powerhouse teams in basketball after forming sports cooperatives. 

One thing that would normally be thought of as a disadvantage would be an advantage in Worth County’s situation. Since they have only one gym, basketball practices are sometimes not over until 7:30 pm. But with Northeast Nodaway, practices would end earlier.

Disadvantages include the loss of tradition, loss of playing time, loss of home games, transportation, and the possibility of moving up to Class 2 in some sports. For instance, if the current MSHSAA enrollment breaks hold, Worth County would move up to Class 2 in boys basketball if they were to sign a cooperative agreement with Northeast Nodaway. Northeast Nodaway moved up to Class 2 in baseball last year after Worth County joined them to form a cooperative.

One of the biggest discussions in forming a cooperative would involve what the new team should be called, what the uniforms should look like, who would hire the coaches, and where home games would be played. 

The decision to form a cooperative for baseball and football was easier for the two schools, since Northeast Nodaway didn’t have a football program and Worth County didn’t have a baseball program. Everybody in the room at Monday’s meeting agreed that the moves to coop with Northeast Nodaway in baseball and football were the right move. Worth County would not have fielded a junior high football team this year without Northeast Nodaway kids. Northeast Nodaway would not have had a baseball team last year without Worth County kids. But a move to form cooperatives in basketball or softball would involve combining two existing programs with two existing traditions, which will be a much tougher sell for the two schools to their patrons.

Both softball squads had enough numbers to field a competitive team last year. The challenge would be to sell the players on coming out when it means that some players who started or who were part of the rotation suddenly find themselves playing two innings of JV or coming off the bench in varsity. In basketball, Platte Valley has been able to make it work, winning three state titles on the girls side in four years. 

And forming just a boys basketball cooperative between Worth County and Northeast Nodaway would have its own logistical problems. The Northeast Nodaway girls team would have trouble scheduling games outside of the Highway 275 Conference and tournaments, since most area teams have both boys and girls teams and other schools would need to find a boys game.

Northeast Nodaway would be within their rights to seek a basketball cooperative with another school and keep their current cooperative agreements with Worth County in place. Currently, Worth County has a wrestling cooperative agreement with Albany in place in addition to their cooperative agreements with Northeast Nodaway. Northeast Nodaway borders Jefferson, which already has a cooperative with South Nodaway. Besides Worth County and Jefferson, they border Stanberry, Maryville, and North Nodaway. However, teams cannot get together with other teams to practice against each other during seasons.

In other action, the school evaluated the Curriculum Program as Above Average. Strengths listed included approving the Pre-K curriculum, board policy reviews being on schedule, the school’s ability to offer a variety of coursework, and the K-12 curriculum being up to date and aligned with Priority Missouri Learning Standards. 

All current teachers were offered new contracts for the upcoming school year. There are openings for two elementary teacher positions.

The board set Summer School for May 20th to June 7th for PreK through 6th grades. Students who will be going into Kindergarten this fall will be eligible. Credit recovery for grades seven through twelve will be from May 20th to June 3rd. 

Elementary Principal Chuck Borey reported that Kindergarten enjoyed muffins with mom on February 22nd. Registration is ongoing for Pre-K. The Drama Club did a dress rehearsal for the Elementary Students on March 8th. Parent/Teacher conferences were March 14th. 

Teresa McDonald with the Tri-County Health Department came to give all Pre-K and Kindergarten students free bicycle helmets. This was funded by a grant from safekids.org.

The Pre-K filled up their compliment coin jar and received time outside with bubbles.

A career day for the upper elementary was held on March 14th. Presenters were Taylor Raymond of Preferred Family Healthcare, Kortnee Blankenship of Kort’s Kuts N’ Kurls, Travis Casteel of the Worth County Sheriff’s Department, Ken Garner and Riley Drury of the Times Tribune, and Paul Tracy with Tracy Farms.

High School Principal Josh Smith reported that the freshmen won the January and February attendance challenge with a 95.66% attendance rate. 

Math contest was held on March 7th; Caleb New qualified for state.

Students helped with the mobile food pantry that came to Grant City on March 11th. 

Activities Director Cree Beverlin reported that patches near the starting line on the track were replaced.

Tyler New and Bo Collins were named to the All District team and Tyler was awarded All State.

There will be 18 teams at the Worth County Early Bird Thursday.

There are 25 out for track (total for both squads), 11 for boys golf, and 5 for baseball. There are 14 girls and 8 boys out for junior high track. 

Emsley Spainhower received a “1” rating, the highest, for her trumpet solo and will go to state in the State Solo & Ensembles division next month. All other band participants received a “2.” 

The board awarded a bid for visitor bleachers to Heartland Seating for $90,000, contingent on passage of the bond issue April 2nd. Passage requires four sevenths. Superintendent Chris Healy said in his background comments that visitor bleachers have been identified as a need by the insurance company, visitors, and the long range planning committee. Currently, there are three sets of bleachers on the east side. Healy says they do not meet safety requirements, require yearly maintenance, and are a long way from the football field. They also sit lower than the field level. 

The new bleachers would be in two 33 foot sections and would be located on the west side. 

One section would be north of the current bleachers and one would be south. The school has applied for a solid waste grant to help fund the project. The board, in a separate vote, approved the grant application. The concrete work would be bid separately.

The board voted to award the bid for new softball lights from Ephesus Sports Lighting and move the fences in to 200 feet, which is regulation for softball. The award is contingent on approval of the bond issue on April 2nd. There were two bids. Techline, which was awarded the bid for the football field, bid $169,000 for the current dimensions and 6 poles. They did not bid on a 200 foot fence and 4 poles. Ephesus Sports Lighting bid $89,098 for the current dimensions and six poles and  $74,543 for a 200 foot fence and 4 poles. Labor and underground electrical will be bid separately. 

The board amended the upcoming school year to account for a later MSHSAA dead period, which will run from August 3rd through 11th. Fall sports practices will start August 12th and the first day of school will be on August 20th. Christmas Break will start on December 23rd and school will resume January 7th. The tentative final day of school will be May 16th. There will be 167 student days and 1070.5 scheduled hours. 

The board voted to award L.J. Hart to underwrite the bonds from the April 2024 election should the bond issue pass. 

Evergy West Seeks New $104.5 Million Rate Hike

The Missouri Public Service Commission is scheduled to hold formal evidentiary hearings September 30-October 4 and October 7-October 11, 2024, in an electric rate case filed by Evergy Missouri West, Inc. d/b/a Evergy Missouri West. These hearings will be held in Room 310 of the Governor Office Building, 200 Madison Street, in Jefferson City. This building meets accessibility standards required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you need additional accommodations to participate in these hearings, please call the Public Service Commission’s hotline at 1-800-392-4211 (voice) or Relay Missouri at 711 before the hearings. The hearings will also be streamed live on the Commission’s website (www.psc.mo.gov). 

On February 2, 2024, Evergy Missouri West filed an electric rate case with the Missouri Public Service Commission seeking a net increase in its base rates of approximately $104.5 million. 

Denver Revival in 1907 Saved 107 Souls

The November 21st, 1907 issue of the Gentry Sentinel reported that a recent revival meeting at the Denver Methodist Church had 107 new conversions and the church greatly revived. Among other entries:

–G.F. Bram and B.D. Bollinger returned from south Texas. They reported a pleasant trip and a fine country. The latter bought a tract of land and will move to it in the near future.

–Another revival was taking place at Hills Chapel.

The Facts About Radon in Homes

Jim Crawford, Field Specialist in Agricultural Engineering University of Missouri Extension, Atchison County

Radon.  Most people are aware that this is a gas that can sometimes present a health hazard inside their home.  However, that is generally the limit of knowledge for most people regarding radon.

Radon is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas that is caused by the natural breakdown of material that contains uranium.  In the outdoors, radon is diluted to such low concentrations that it is usually harmless.  However, inside an enclosed space such as a home, radon can accumulate to harmful levels.  

Over the past 30 years we have made every attempt to make our homes as airtight as possible to reduce the energy requirements to heat and cool them.  The lack of air transfer between the outside and inside of these airtight, energy efficient homes has caused radon levels (as well as dust and other allergen levels) to increase in some cases.  This is not saying that the energy efficient homes are the only ones affected; the symptoms are just generally noticed quicker in these homes due to the concentration.

The main route of entry for radon into a home is through cracks and openings in walls and floors from the soil under a home.   Radon also can enter water in private wells and be released into the home when the water is used.

Now that we know what radon is and how it enters the home, what are the risks?  The EPA estimates that between 5000 and 20,000 lung cancer deaths a year in the United States are the result of radon exposure.  The greater your exposure to radon the greater your risk of developing lung cancer.

There are two techniques commonly used for detecting radon: Charcoal Canisters and Alpha Track detectors.  Both are exposed to the air in a home for a specific time period and then are sent to a lab for analysis.  Both are commercially available to homeowners, are relatively inexpensive and easy to handle.  The Alpha Track detector allows you to take long term reads while the Charcoal Canister is only for short-term measurements.  Other techniques are available, but they require very expensive equipment and trained personnel.

The screening measurement taken with the Alpha Track and Charcoal Canisters will indicate a potential for a radon problem.  This is because radon levels can vary greatly from season to season as well as room to room.  Depending on the results from these tests, a homeowner may need to have a follow up measurement taken to determine the average radon level in the home.

There are several things that can be done to reduce the radon levels in a home.  Some techniques prevent radon from entering your home and others reduce the levels after the radon has entered.  In almost all cases, preventing the radon from entering the home is the preferred approach.  

If the tests show an elevated level, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce your exposure until the situation can be addressed.

–Stop smoking.  Scientific evidence indicates that smoking may increase the risk of complications from radon exposure.

–Spend less time in areas with higher concentrations of radon, such as basements.

–Open windows and turn on fans to increase the airflow through the house.

The most common solution to prevent entry of radon into your home is called a soil suction system.  This prevents radon from entering your home by drawing the radon from below the house and venting it through a pipe to the outside where it is quickly diluted.

If you would like more information on this topic, University of Missouri Extension guide sheet GO1968 Radon: An indoor health hazard? covers most of the basics of radon.  The Missouri Department of Health and Senior services has an excellent website with lots of information about radon at https://health.mo.gov/living/environment/radon/index.php. There is also a link on their webpage where you can order a free radon test kit.

North Nodaway Quarterly Awards

GOLD HONOR ROLL

Seniors – Aydan Blackford, Saryn Brown, Morgan Pope.

Sophomores – Addalea Barcus, Blaine Clements, Lacy Riley, Carlos Rohner, Casey Wray.

Freshmen – Lily Blane, Kila Miller.

8th Grade – Laney Turner.

7th Grade – Eliza Clements.

6th Grade – Sophee Clapp, Reed Martin, Zoey Pearson.

SILVER HONOR ROLL

Seniors – Daryn Berg, Ethan Fry, Preston Hansen, Lauren Herndon, Andrea Jenkins, Madison Leach, Angie Parker, Brice Trimble, Sydney Whipple.

Juniors – Owen Martin, Katelyn Parman, Olivia Renfro, Lakota Rucker.

Sophomores – Sadee Clapp, Jordan DeLeon, Emily Keho, Landon Parman, Gannon Volner, Jackie Wray, Trevin Wyllie.

Freshmen – Wyatt Emery, Mya Hansen, Ridge Harger, Aiden James.

8th Grade – Weston Alexander, Draven Rader, Lena Richards, Savannah Rucker, Pyper Smith, Ava Stump.

7th Grade – Journi Farnsworth, Jackson Keho, Conner Pearson, Zoey Phillips.

6th Grade – Cade Miller, Gannon Stricker, Chandra Wyllie.

BRONZE HONOR ROLL

Seniors – Tayden Halvin.

Juniors – Mason Casner, Nevaeh Halvin, Gabby Harper, Amy Richards.

Freshmen – Keith Riedel, Halie Young.

8th Grade – Trynzlee Ebrecht, Coa Moyer.

7th Grade – Luke Clements, Hayden Marriott.

6th Grade – Samuel Jenkins, Lila Miller, Ava Steinman, Tristen Wray.

PERFECT ATTENDANCE FOR QUARTER

Middle School – Scarlett Brown, Conner Reeves, Savannah Rucker.

High School – Addalea Barcus, Aydan Blackford, Lily Blane, Blaine Clements, Ridge Harger, Lauren Herndon, Andrea Jenkins, Olivia Renfro, Keith Riedel, Lacy Riley, Neveah Smith, Casey Wray, Jackie Wray.

THIRD QUARTER AWARDS

High School Achievement Award – Lauren Herndon, Mason Casner, Addalea Barcus, Lily Blane.

High School Leadership Award – Brice Trimble.

High School Citizenship Award – Lacy Riley.

High School Student of the Quarter – Casey Wray.

Middle School Achievement Award – Sam Jenkins.

Middle School Leadership Award – Laney Turner.

Middle School Citizenship Award – Robbie Forney.

Student of the Quarter – Journi Farnsworth.

Opinion -- Adam James Announces Run for Nodaway County Sheriff

By Adam James

I, Adam James, proudly announce my official Republican candidacy for Nodaway County Sheriff.  Seeking this office was not an easy decision and one that I do not take lightly.  I believe it is a privilege and not an entitlement to hold such office.  I fully accept the responsibilities that come with earning your respect and trust each day. 

My journey as a law enforcement officer has been guided by a desire to serve the community and make a positive impact both on and off the job.  With hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment, I am confident in my ability to lead and protect the people of this great county. I believe there is room for growth in how the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office currently serves the public.  

I am excited to take on this new challenge and serve the residents of the county as diligently as I have the residents of Maryville.  I am passionate about people, our community, and its future.  I consider myself to be a purpose driven public servant.  Now more than ever, we need strong leadership that is focused with a purpose to serve others above self.  

All citizens within Nodaway County deserve to live in a safe community and be served by a law enforcement agency with the highest standards and values.  As your next Sheriff, my first priority will be implementing a standard of performance in all staff. This will be built upon a commitment of top-down accountability, standard of excellence, hard work, doing what is right, showing respect for others, being fair and consistent, having integrity and being transparent.

I will be a Sheriff that holds others accountable, including those that work for the office. Transparency is a term we hear a lot now days but is not seen in government very often.  I will be a sheriff that will be involved every day, lead my staff, and not turn a blind eye or ignore problems.  I WILL be available to meet with citizens when requested. 

I will not only be a working Sheriff, but a hard-working Sheriff. I will spend time in patrol cars with deputies.  I will not just work a typical day shift Monday through Friday.  Although I do understand the role of Sheriff is an administrative role, I firmly believe there is an abundance of time to get out and work hard in the county.  This includes skipping some day shifts and working some evenings, overnights and weekends.   

Public Safety is truly my life’s calling.  Although the role of law enforcement is to protect and not punish, I ensure my office will put in the work needed on each call to present the best possible case for proper prosecution and closure.  No matter how small your problem may be in the grand scheme of things, you will clearly recognize your problem is our number one priority and we will take it serious.  We will accomplish this together as a team along with our partners on the local, state, and federal level when necessary.

There will be times major cases or incidents will occur in our community.  I have built those critical relationships far and wide and will never be too proud to reach out for help if needed.  I have a great working relationship with all law enforcement agencies that surround us.  This includes our neighbors to the north in Iowa.  

A few highlights over the course of my career: 

--I have over 16 years of law enforcement experience.

--I have over 800 hours of documented training since graduating the academy in 2006.

--I have countless hours of additional training that were not POST approved trainings, but have still aided in my working knowledge of law enforcement. 

--I have over 600 arrests without being named in a lawsuit or defending wrongdoing.

--I have attended and completed two separate interview/interrogation week long courses.

--I have attended and completed two separate investigator week long courses.

--I have completed training to become a Certified Voice Stress Analysis Examiner. This is an instrument used during an investigation to determine if a suspect is being deceptive or truthful.  I am one of two that holds this certification in our area.

--I have completed intense training to become a Certified Cellebrite Operator and Cellebrite Physical Analyst which has been used to assist in clearing some of the worst crimes in Northwest Missouri.  This is high end computerized equipment for the forensic examination of digital evidence such as cellular phones.  I have been doing such work since 2009.  I am the only one in our area and have been for many years that holds this certification.  

--I have recovered nearly $750,000.00 in monies through the years in which people were defrauded by means of scams, fraud and embezzlement.  These are cases that take a lot of time and attention to detail.  One case alone can require numerous subpoenas and search warrants to find where that money is hiding and recover it.   

--I have successfully worked cases ranging from homicides clear down to incidents of simple property damage.

--I have a very high clearance rate on cases and investigations.

--I have been called on repeatedly to assist with complex cases by outside agencies such as the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office, NWMSU Police Department, Holt County Sheriff’s Office, Atchison County Sheriff’s Office, Rock Port Police Department, Tarkio Police Department, Worth County Sheriff’s Office, Gentry County Sheriff’s Office, and the Taylor County Iowa Sheriff’s Office.  

--I have successfully worked with outside agencies, prosecutors and judges to secure search warrants in their jurisdiction and assist in serving them to clear cases that originally occurred in Maryville.

--I have rose through the ranks at Maryville Public Safety achieving the current title of Detective at the rank of Sergeant.   

--I am a recipient of numerous letters of commendation professionally and by members of the public.  

As a candidate for Nodaway County Sheriff, I encourage everyone to put their family first and take a hard look at each candidate. Do not take a quick look, but really dig around.  You will then see who has the most diverse experience, who has the most training and who truly has worked well with others.  

If you will do that, then I have no doubt you will agree and support me as the best qualified candidate for Nodaway County Sheriff.

The Sheridan Express welcomes letters and opinion pieces from all candidates for Nodaway County Sheriff along with their supporters. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the Sheridan Express, the Sheridan Express cooperative, its Board of Directors, or any organizer. Publication does not mean endorsement. All letters must be signed; we cannot accept anonymous letters for publication. The Sheridan Express reserves the right to edit or reject submissions. 

The Old Reliable Hardware Company from Gentry in 1907

The November 21st, 1907 edition of the Gentry Sentinel carried an advertisement from G.W. Lane & Co of Gentry, which billed itself as The Old Reliable Hardware Company. They carried a full line of builders hardware, tinware, implements, laprobes, spouting, incubators, brooders, and fencing.

They were running a sale on furniture and wagons. Here are some of their prices:

Rockers – $1 to $4.

Iron Beds – $2.50 to $6.

Couches – $12.

Bed Springs – $2.50

Mattresses – $2.75 to $3.75

Buggies – $40 to $80

Mitchell Wagons – $75

Farmers Handy Wagon – $25

Wagon Beds – $15.

Dole Announces Recall of Various Salad Kits

Dole Fresh Vegetables, Inc. is voluntarily recalling from the market a limited number of Dole-branded and private label salad kits described below, which were processed on the same line as a cheese that has been recalled by the manufacturer, Rizo-Lopez Foods, for the possible presence of Listeria monocytogenes. 

Listeria monocytogenes is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.

This recall notification is being issued due to the potential for cross-contamination of cheese contained in certain masterpacks by cheese potentially contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes from our packaged cheese supplier. At this time, we are unaware of any specific illnesses associated with our products. or by other purchasers of their recalled cheese.

A listing of products subject to this recall is set forth below and includes Dole, President’s Choice, and Marketside brands. The product lot codes are located in the upper-right-hand corner of the package. Consumers who still have any of these products in their refrigerators or freezers are urged not to consume the product and to discard it immediately.

Recalled salad items were distributed in Missouri.

No other Dole products are part of these voluntary recalls.

Dole retailers have been advised to check store shelves and warehouse inventories to confirm that no recalled product is available for purchase by consumers.

Retailer and consumer questions about the voluntary recalls should be directed to the Dole Consumer Response Center at 800-356-3111, Monday-Friday, 8:00 am to 3:00 pm Pacific Time.

The following products are being recalled:

Dole Chopped Kit Avocado Ranch. UPC 71430000915, Lot Codes W019-W036 and N019-N036, Best if Used By February 3rd to February 20th, 2024.

Dole Chop Kit Avocado Ranch Chop Kit. UPC 71430000922, Lot Code W022-W036; Best if Used By February 6th to February 20th, 2024.

Dole Premium Kit Southwest Salad. UPC 71430017012, Lot Codes W022-W036 and N022-N036, Best if Used By February 4th to 18th, 2024.

Dole Cajun Ranch Chopped Kit. UPC 71430002063, Lot Codes W029-W036 (Best if Used By February 11th to 18th, 2024) and N022-N036 (Best if Used By February 4th to 18th, 2024).

Dole Premium Kit Endless Summer. UPC 71430010730, Lot Codes W022-W036 (Best if Used By February 4th to 18th, 2024) and N023-N036 (Best if Used By February 5th to 19th, 2024).

Dole Supreme Kit Southwest Salad. UPC 71430017111, Lot Number W020-W036, Best if Used By February 3rd to 18th, 2024.

President’s Choice Southwest Salad Kit. UPC 60383023195, Lot Numbers W034-W036 (Best if Used By February 17th to February 18th, 2024) and B018-B024 (Best if Used by February 3rd to 9th, 2024). 

Marketside Chopped Salad Kit Bacon Ranch Crunch. UPC 681131305440, Lot Number B020-B036, Best if Used By February 5th to February 21st, 2024. 

Keygun Johnson Gets Three Hits, Andrew Craig Gets Sensational Catch as Shamrocks Beat Mustangs 17-7

North Harrison won its first game of the year as they are seeking to regain the form that made them one of the top teams in the area three years ago. They got three hits from Keygun Johnson, a sensational catch from Andrew Craig at first base, and enough hitting to pull away to beat North Nodaway 17-7 Friday.

The game was the first between the two teams since 2017. North Harrison won its first ever game as a franchise against the Mustangs 7-5 in 2016, a game in which Andrew’s brother, Logan, played. North Nodaway trounced the Shamrocks 11-1 in Hopkins the next year, but ever since then, the two teams had a game on their schedule, but it would always rain that day, and COVID-19 wiped out the 2020 season.

For North Nodaway, their youth and inexperience showed in Friday’s game. They have five seniors on their roster, but everyone else on the squad is either a freshman or a sophomore, giving Coach Cody Jenkins a lot of holes he has to fill this year. 

The game was marred by a lot of walks on both sides, which lead to errors and runs even at higher levels. Karsyn Ury made a nice catch of Brice Trimble’s line drive to start the game, but then Trevin Wyllie was plunked and took second on a wild pitch. Blaine Clements walked and then Shamrock catcher Dustin Hamilton threw it away trying to get Wyllie at third on a passed ball situation, and Wyllie came home for North Nodaway’s first run to make it 1-0.

Dustin Hamilton walked and took second to start the Shamrock first. Jerry Gilpatrick reached when third baseman Blaine Clements airmailed the throw, putting Gilpatrick on second and scoring Hamilton. Andrew Craig hit a seeing eye single that died behind second, but eluded everyone, and then an errant throw scored Gilpatrick. Keygun Johnson hit a shot into the left field gap to score Craig and put the Shamrocks on 3-1.

The teams were scoreless until the third inning. But then Brice Trimble was plunked to start the third and stole second. Trevin Wyllie struck out, but Trimble took third on a wild pitch. Aydan Blackford singled to cut the Mustang deficit to 3-2. He stole second and later came home on a wild pitch to tie it at 3-3.

But then Andrew Craig walked, Keygun Johnson hit a pop fly to left field that dropped in for a base hit just before Ridge Clements could get to it, and Tate Richardson and Karsyn Ury were plunked to force in a run to break the 3-3 tie. Keygun Johnson was out trying for home on a diving tag from Mustang catcher Aydan Blackford as Richardson and Ury took second and third. But then Mustang pitcher Blaine Clements started fighting the strike zone, walking in three runs to make it 7-3. Ethan Fry replaced Clements, but a walk forced in North Harrison’s fifth run and two Mustang errors let in two more to make it 10-3. 

Ethan Fry made a great pickoff play to catch Jerry Gilpatrick in a rundown between third and home, but then more errors let in two more Shamrock runs before Fry finally got the Mustangs out of the inning trailing 12-3. North Harrison took advantage of eight walks and four Mustang errors in the inning to fuel their run.

Keygun Johnson came on to pitch against the Mustangs in the fourth, but fought the strike zone, hitting two batters and walking four as North Nodaway cut it to 12-6. But then the Shamrocks started figuring out Fry’s breaking ball and Landon Johnson singled to start the Shamrock fourth. Kayson Sims walked and Dustin Hamilton singled and took second on an error as Landon scored to make it 13-6. Jerry Gilpatrick and Andrew Craig grounded out to score Sims. Keygun Johnson shot another ball in the gap for his second double as Hamilton scored to make it 15-6.

Dustin Hamilton came on to pitch for the Shamrocks and got in trouble in the Mustang fifth as he started fighting the strike zone after hits from Daryn Berg and Ethan Fry started it. He walked Ridge Clements and Brice Trimble to force in a run to make it 15-7. But then Trevin Wyllie hit what looked like a Texas Leaguer down the right field line for more runs, only for Shamrock first baseman Andrew Craig to sell out and make a diving catch for the second out. That gave Hamilton the confidence he needed to get out of the inning as he struck out Blackford to limit the damage to one run.

Karsyn Ury and Kyler Kimbrough walked to start the Shamrock fifth. North Nodaway nearly got of the inning as Landon Johnson grounded out to advance the runners and Kayson Sims struck out. But then Dustin Hamilton singled them home to end the game after five.

Charles, Donna Smith Honored at Benefit

On Sunday, March 10th, the local Lions Clubs and the Pickering community came together to support Pickering Lions Club members – Charles and Donna Smith – who suffered a home fire in January. 

The benefit luncheon was hosted by the Pickering Lions, Maryville Host and Maryville Pride Lions, Pickering Methodist Church, as well as the North Nodaway Leo Club (junior Lion club).  The benefit fed over 150 people and during the luncheon, Past International Director, WR O’Riley surprised Charles Smith with one of the highest honors/awards a Lion member can achieve – Melvin Jones Fellowship Award. 

Area Courthouse, Police, and Crime Reports for March 13th, 2024

On March 1st at 6:57 pm, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2004 Volkswagen Passat driven by a 16 year old boy was eastbound on Route 46 three miles north of Skidmore when it ran off the south side, overcorrected, returned to the roadway, and traveled off the north side and overturned. It then struck a concrete culvert and a MODOT sign before ejecting the driver. The boy received serious injuries and was taken to Mosaic in Maryville.

On March 5th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Jeremiah Thyrion (37) of Lineville alleging Stalking (Felony). Bond was set at $10,000, cash only. 

On March 5th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Daemon Johnson (48) of Kansas City alleging Tampering with Physical Evidence (Felony), Possession of Controlled Substance (Hallucinogen, Felony), Failure to Register, Careless & Imprudent Driving (Weaving in and out of Traffic), Speeding (110 mph), No Valid License, and No Seat Belt. Bond was set at $25,000, cash only. 

On March 6th at 12:30 am, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2018 Buick Enclave driven by Thomas Howard (29) of Parnell was eastbound on County Road 268 near Maryville when he failed to navigate an intersection, drove off the east side of Jet Road, went airborne, struck a sign, struck an embankment, and overturned. Howard received serious injuries and was taken to Mosaic in Maryville. 

On March 6th, Ricardo Hernandez Garcia (32) of Bethany failed to appear on charges of DWI in Harrison County Associate Circuit Court. A warrant was issued, and bond was set at $500, cash only.

On March 6th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested James Wentz (29) of Council Bluffs on charges of Domestic Assault (Felony), Sexual Abuse (Felony), and Obstruction of Emergency Communications. Bond was set at $15,300, cash only. 

On March 6th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Justin Wink (43) of Martinsville alleging Failure to Register as Sex Offender (Felony). Bond was set at $2,000 cash or corporate surety, posted by the defendant. 

On March 6th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against David Cole (60) of Stanberry alleging Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (Felony). In a separate case, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Cole alleging Trespassing. Bond was denied. 

On March 7th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Jeremy Huntsman (45) of Grant City in Atchison County on a Worth County Warrant for Failure to Appear (No Valid License). 

On March 7th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department reported that vehicles driven by Kate Hainline and Amber Scott, both of Mount Ayr, were stopped at Jefferson and Lincoln in Mount Ayr. Both attempted to proceed into the intersection and Scott’s vehicle struck Hainline’s. 

On March 8th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Cole Holden (20) of Raymore (MO) in Harrison County on two counts Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Seat Belt, and Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway and Kaya Gawron (18) of Raymore (MO) on two counts Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Charges against Holden and Gawron were filed on March 9th. Bond was set at $25,000, cash only for each defendant. Gawron was given leave to post 10% cash.

On March 9th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Jowett Bastow (48) of Mount Ayr on a charge of Assault While Displaying Dangerous Weapon. Bond was set at $2,000, cash only.

On March 10th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Kercy Freddy (31) of Ottumwa (IA) in Harrison County on charges of DWI, a Newton County Warrant (No Valid License), a Newton County Warrant (Speeding), and No Valid License. 

On March 11th, Joseph Rumple (40) turned himself into the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department on a Ringgold County Warrant for Burglary. Bond was set at $5,000 cash only, posted by the defendant.

On March 11th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Johnnie McKee (48) of Cameron alleging Harassment. 

On March 12th, Vincent Estrada (42) of Bethany was arrested in Harrison County on an Illinois Warrant for Probation Revocation (Original Charge Possession of Methamphetamine). 

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. 

Winning Season for Mustang Boys Basketball, Academic All State Honors Touted at Banquet

A winning boys basketball season and numerous Academic All State selections highlighted the North Nodaway Athletic Banquet Wednesday. 

Cross Country had three participants, Andrea Jenkins, Casey Wray, and Carlos Rohner, an exchange student. There were only three of them, but the camaraderie lasted a lifetime. Andrea doubled as a volleyball player, and at one meet, the volleyball team came to one of her meets to cheer her on. Both Jenkins and Wray qualified for state, while Rohner improved his time by 6-10 minutes over the course of the season. Both Jenkins and Wray were Academic All State.

The Volleyball squad only had eight players, so their players had to wear a bunch of different hats. Named to the Academic All State squad were Lacy Riley, Lauren Herndon, Andrea Jenkins, Addalea Barcus, Emily Keho, Lily Blane, and Kila Miller.  

The Character Award, given to a player who was always willing to help, went to Andrea Jenkins. The Most Improved award, for showing her versatility during the year, went to Kila Miller. The Rising Star award went to Lily Blane, who was the team leader in digs with 177. The Coaches Award went to Lacy Riley, who coach Cari Cline said was a joy to coach every day.

The Heart of a Mustang award went to Lauren Herndon. The team’s record didn’t show it, but she was among the area stat leaders on the squad. She had 409 kills, 93 aces, 37 blocks, and 537 digs for her career. Cline said that she led by example, took the younger players under her wing, kept battling, and improved on her serve percentage and became one of the leaders this year.

Flag Corp members were Sydney Whipple and Aryanna Jimenez, who worked on a lot of new moves this year.

The Cheerleaders were next. Most Improved was Aryanna Jimenez, who had never cheered before, but got better every single time. Most Energetic was Olivia Renfro, who was constantly cracking people up. Outstanding Leader was Amy Richards, who set a good example for the other cheerleaders.

Girls Basketball was next. Coach Sami Jackson said that she knew going into this season that they had a young squad, and if they got to .500 this year, it would be good. The Mustangs exceeded expectations this year, winning 11 games and improving on their record after this group found wins hard to come by in junior high and didn’t finish their season. 

During the middle of the season, the team fell into a prolonged losing streak and was struggling. But the day before the Mound City game, Sami said that Saryn Brown came up to her and talked to her before the game and said everything would be OK. Sure enough, North Nodaway played one of their best games of the year in beating Mound City, a game Jackson said was one of the most fun games she’s coached. 

In districts, North Nodaway was counted out, seeded sixth in a loaded district against Rock Port, who had beaten them by 20 earlier in the year. They dug themselves into a hole, but came back and got the lead in the third and tied it up in the fourth before they fell by four. 

Saryn Brown was given the Offensive Award. She had 12.7 points per game, 2.0 offensive rebounds per game, and 2.0 assists per game and was awarded Honorable Mention All Conference. 

Lauren Herndon was named the Defensive Award. She had 2 steals, 3 tips, 4.5 offensive rebounds, and only one foul per game, showing the ability to play without fouling.

The Hustle Award went to Angie Parker, who was outsized in the post, but never backed down from anyone, got a broken nose in the first DeKalb game, but came back and was just as aggressive as before. 

The Most Improved Award went to Jackie Wray. She started the season slow, but then gave the team a lot of quality minutes when Angie Parker went down. When Angie came back, Jackie became her biggest cheerleader on the bench and still came off the bench to give people a break. She was almost too unselfish, like the time she passed on a wide open layup to make an extra pass. 

The Leadership Award went to Lauren Herndon. Coach Jackson said that you could make a good argument for any of the three seniors, Herndon, Brown, or Parker. They all took someone under their wing and never showed negative body language.

The Heart of a Mustang award went to Kila Miller. She was a true team player, always wanted what was best for her teammates, never asked for anything, and was always was the first to pick up stray balls or go fill up water.

The Boys Basketball Team was next. They went from 1-23 their freshman year, to 1-22 their sophomore year, to 5-17 last year, to 15-11 this year. They were 6-2 at home, their best record since 2015. They were 3-4 on the road, their best since 2019. 

A lot of their games were an adventure, as they scored 48 points per game and gave up 46 per game. They made it to two championship games, won their first district game since 2016, and threw a scare into Platte Valley before losing. 

They finally started off the season with their full contingent of players, and they got their first win under their belt, a 48-41 win over North Harrison, another team that showed a lot of improvement from last year. They won their first game of the year for the first time since 2019.

There were a lot of highlights for the year, like Ethan Fry going off and hitting seven 3-pointers against DeKalb, the long and grinding tournament at Gilman City, in which they placed second and showed they could play with a lot of different teams, the North Andrew game, in which the whole team showed a lot of unbelievable energy in a hard-fought win, the second King City game, in which the only thing that went wrong was Owen Martin missing a dunk, and Aydan Blackford getting his 1,000th point despite missing almost half his career with injuries.

Aydan Blackford got the Offense Award. He averaged 15.4 points per game, shot 57% from inside the arc, made 79% of his free throws, played nearly every minute of the season that North Nodaway was involved in, and had two assists per game and had a 1.5-1 assist to turnover ratio.

Mason Casner won the Defense Award. He was always tasked with guarding the other team’s toughest player, whether it was Tyler New or Talan Holt. He still got 26 tips, 24 steals, drew three charges, got 4.2 rebounds per game, and got 12 points per game.

Owen Martin won the Hustle Award. He had 51 tips and 39 steals and was one of the hardest workers on the team. He cut down on his fouls this year, and was rarely in foul trouble after battling it for much of his career. 

Brice Trimble was the Most Improved. Coming into this season a lot more confident this year, he had 40 three pointers. He also improved on his defense, and stole the ball five times against Stanberry.

The Newcomer Award went to Ridge Clements. He was quiet until he got to know people, but turned into a good teammate and always put the team first.

The EGB Award, or Energy Giving Behavior Award, went to Trevin Wyllie, who began to earn minutes in the varsity rotation as the season progressed. He always had a smile on his face, even when he was in trouble.

The Heart of a Mustang Award went to Aydan Blackford. “When you think of North Nodaway, you think of this kid,” said his coach, Cody Jenkins.

Students who went out for a sport all four years were recognized. They were Lauren Herndon (Volleyball, Basketball), Saryn Brown (Basketball), Angie Parker (Basketball), Aydan Blackford (Basketball), Brice Trimble (Basketball), Ethan Fry (Basketball), and Sydney Whipple (Color Guard). Aydan Blackford was given the Letterman’s Award for doing three different sports, Football, Basketball, and now Baseball for four years.