William "Doc" Findley 1932-2024

Dr. William “Doc” Blaine Findley, 91, of Chattanooga died on June 23, 2024, having lived a long and full life.

He was born on September 14, 1932, to Archie and Millie Findley in Denver, Missouri. He attended Grant City High School where he was involved in athletics and went on to earn his embalming license in St. Louis, MO in 1953.

He then served in the U.S. Navy from 1953 to 1955 and in 1960 earned his bachelor’s degree from Tennessee Temple College, where he double majored in psychology and Bible. He then attended medical school at the University of Tennessee in Memphis. He served as a physician for over 60 years, first in Byromville, GA and then for about 50 years in Chattanooga. His work in the Chattanooga area included campus physician for Tennessee Temple College and medical director at Alton Park Community Clinic. He later opened two private practices, in East Brainerd and on Dodds Avenue.

William was the proud father of four children---three with his first wife, Marianne Dunfee---Jacki, Jennifer and William II. In 1975 he married Yvonne Ratliff, whose daughter is Kandace.

His patients and friends knew him as a friendly, compassionate, and generous caregiver, eager to lend a helping hand and enrich his community. He and his wife, Yvonne, founded the Springview Recovery Center, and he was a lifetime member of the American Legion.

He is survived by his wife, Yvonne; a sister, Nita Draut of San Diego, CA; four children, Jacki (Bob) Sellmansberger of Port St. Joe, FL; Jennifer (Jim) Sandberg of Daleville, IN; Bill (Cindy Abiko) Findley of Honolulu, HI, and Kandace Turner of Champaign, IL; six grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and two grand-dogs.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Archie and Millie Findley, by his sister Ernestine Bowden, and by a host of colleagues and dear friends.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 2, 11 am-12 pm at John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Avenue, 423-622-9995. Interment will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery at 12:30 PM with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Area Courthouse, Police, and Crime Reports for June 26th, 2024

On June 14th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Coltin Hatfield of Kellerton on charges of Enticing a Minor Under 13 (Felony), and Dissemination and Exhibition of Obscene Material to Minor. Bond was set at $11,000, cash only.

On June 14th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Theresa Marcione (43) of Mount Ayr on charges of DWI, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Disorderly Conduct, and Driving While Suspended. Bond was set at $2,600, cash only.

On June 15th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department reported that Tasha Picard (32) of Shannon City (IA) was eastbound on J23. When she attempted to turn right onto Route 169, the truck door popped open and she fell out of the truck, which ran her over, causing severe leg injuries. The truck entered a ditch, went through a fence, and collided with a concrete culvert. There was a four year old passenger in the vehicle. Both were lifeflighted to Mercy Downtown. Picard was charged with No Valid License, No Insurance, No Seat Belt, and No Child Restraint Device.

On June 15th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2004 BMW driven by a 17 year old boy was northbound on Route 69 between Bethany and Pattonsburg at around 2:47 pm. The vehicle drove off the right side, struck an embankment, and overturned. The teen received moderate injuries and was taken to Harrison County Hospital.

On June 17th, Michelle Jones (36) of Worth pleaded guilty in Worth County Associate Circuit Court to a charge of DWI. She was fined $500 plus court costs by Judge Joel Miller.

On June 17th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Robert McNutt (46) of Kansas City alleging Failure to Register as Sex Offender (Felony) and No Valid License.  Bond was set at $5,000 cash or corporate surety, posted by the defendant.

On June 17th, Special Prosecutor Tara Cluck filed charges against James Farnsworth (44) of Grant City in Gentry County alleging Non-Support (Felony). The amount alleged owed as of July 1st, 2023 totaled $14,595.03.

On June 17th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Charles Hunter (33) of Stanberry alleging Driving While Revoked, No Insurance, and Tampering with Property of Another. An affidavit from the Maryville Police Department alleges the defendant took the license plates off another vehicle and placed them on his own.

On June 17th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against John Pierson (33) of St. Joseph alleging Forgery (Felony) and two counts Fraudulent Use of a Credit Device. Bond was set at $10,000, signature bond. An affidavit from the Nodaway County Sheriff’s Department alleges the defendant forged someone else’s signature on a check and transferred money from the victim into his bank account. 

On June 18th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2016 Ford Fusion driven by Lauren Black (32) of Maryville and a 2001 Chevy Silverado were southbound on Route 71 two miles south of Maryville at around 8:09 am. The Chevy slowed to turn onto a gravel road and was struck by the Fusion. Black received minor injuries and was taken to Mosaic in Maryville.

On June 18th, Stephanie Barker (32) of Clarinda pleaded guilty in Nodaway County Associate Circuit Court to a charge of Property Damage. She was sentenced to two years probation by Judge Robert Rice. 

On June 18th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against David Chandler (43) of King City alleging DWI and Driving While Revoked (Felony). Bond was set at $2,000, cash or corporate surety, posted by the defendant. 

On June 18th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Jason Yetman (49) of Blythedale alleging Domestic Assault (Felony). Bond was set at $15,000, cash only.

On June 18th, Jessie Patterson (32) of Clarinda pleaded guilty in Nodaway County Associate Circuit Court to a charge of Stealing. They were sentenced to two years probation by Judge Robert Rice and must make restitution of $357.86 to Wal-Mart plus $75 PA fee and court costs.

On June 18th, Gage George (20) of Rea pleaded guilty in Nodaway County Associate Circuit Court to a charge of Stealing. They were sentenced to two years probation by Judge Robert Rice. Restitution of $172.34 to Wal-Mart was paid out of the defendant’s bond fund.

On June 18th, Michael Hull (33) of Pickering pleaded guilty in Nodaway County Associate Circuit Court to a charge of Violation of Protection Order. He was sentenced to two years probation by Judge Robert Rice.  Defendant can have no contact with the victim except through the Children’s Division or the court.

On June 19th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Shyann Tallen (34) of New Hampton in Harrison County on charges of DWI (Person Less than 17 in Vehicle), Following Too Closely, and Speeding.

On June 20th, Francis Bonor (56) of Eagleville pleaded guilty in Harrison County Circuit Court to a charge of Burglary (Felony). He was given five years probation by Judge Steven Hudson. 

On June 21st, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Cannon Crouch (18) of Des Moines alleging Stealing (Felony) and Tampering with Motor Vehicle (Felony). Bond was denied. An affidavit from the Gentry County Sheriff’s Department alleges the defendant stole a pickup, a firearm, and ammunition.

On June 21st, Dalton Reeves (23) of Anderson (CA) was arrested in Harrison County and ordered extradited to California on a Shasta County (CA) Warrant (Arson, Destruction of Evidence, Resisting Arrest, Receiving Stolen Property, Burglary). Bond was set at $100,000, cash only. 

On June 21st, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Blake Richardson (29) of Fillmore alleging Tampering with Motor Vehicle (Felony) and Driving While Suspended. Bond was set at $20,000, cash or corporate surety.

On June 24th, the New York Times reported that Julian Assange had agreed to plead guilty to a charge of illegally obtaining and disclosing national security material in exchange for his release from a British prison. He was the founder of Wikileaks. He will be sentenced to time already served, over five years. In the 2010’s, he had disclosed numerous materials from whistleblowers about American military activity in Iraq and Afghanistan, confidential cables shared among diplomats, and thousands of emails stolen from the Democratic National Committee in 2016, leading to revelations embarrassing to the party and Hillary Clinton.

On June 24th, NFL Network reported that the Chiefs are releasing Defensive Tackle Isaiah Buggs after he had picked up two court cases. On June 16th, the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Department arrested Buggs on charges of Domestic Violence and Burglary. He had allegedly broken into a home and dragged a woman, who is the mother of his child, down the stairs of his apartment. In late May, he was charged with Animal Cruelty. Two dogs had allegedly been left on the back porch of a home rented by the defendant that were malnourished, emaciated, neglected, and abandoned. One of them had to be euthanized. 

On June 24th, Logan Rainey (45) of King City pleaded guilty to a charge of DWI in Gentry County Associate Circuit Court. He was sentenced to two years probation by Judge Brett Hurst and ordered to serve two days shock time in jail. 

On June 25th, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for two top Russian security officials, former General Valery Gerasimov and former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, alleging they had directed a campaign of strikes against Ukraine’s power plants in the winter of 2022 that was directed against civilians. The New York Times writes that they are considered to be the architects of that country’s invasion of Ukraine. The court had previously issued arrest warrants for Russian leader Vladimir Putin, alleging he bore responsibility for that country’s abduction and deportation of Ukrainian children during the war.

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. 

Blair Nelson, Sasha Deardorff Triple as Bluejays Beat Stanberry

Northeast Nodaway was seemingly hung over for an inning and a half after giving up six runs and barely hanging on against Platte Valley, but then Makenzie Pride hit a shot off the left fielder’s glove in the second and then the rest of the bats came to life as the Bluejays won 10-2 over Stanberry. 

A pair of Bluejay errors right off the bat set up Stanberry’s first run in the top of the first, but catcher Baylie Busby made a running catch three quarters of the way down the first base line to end the inning and prevent further damage.

With Stanberry playing Busby deep, she hit a pop fly that nobody could catch up to and she made it for a base hit. It didn’t matter as Busby stole second and third. Hadley DeFreece singled her home to make it 1-1 as Northeast got the run back.

Pride hit a shot that the left fielder could not handle to start the second and Lindsey Jackson singled her to third. Sasha Deardorff hit a shot that dropped just in front of the left fielder for a base hit to score Pride. Mylee Wilmes forced Deardorff at second and Bristol Hicks struck out. But then the heart of the Bluejay order came up again and Baylie Busby got her second hit to score two and make it 4-1 after two. 

Stanberry pulled off a successful double steal in the third to cut it to 4-2, but then Hayley Yost hit a shot off the pitcher’s foot for a base hit. Blair Nelson provided one of two big blows, hitting a triple over the left fielder’s head to score Yost. Makenzie Pride crushed one over the center fielder’s head to score Nelson and took third when the cutoff throw got away. Lindsey Jackson flied out to score Pride.

Hadley DeFreece was playing center field, saving herself for a travel came the next morning, but she got quite a workout in the Stanberry fourth as the Bulldogs hit two screamers to right center field that she ran down to keep them off the board.

Northeast could not score in the fourth, but after Bluejay pitcher Lindsey Jackson got out of a bases loaded one out jam in the fifth, Blair Nelson reached on a dropped pop fly. Makenzie Pride advanced her to second, and then Lindsey Jackson crushed one into the left center field gap to score Nelson. Sasha Deardorff got the hit of the night, crushing an opposite field triple over the left fielder’s head, and then Mylee Wilmes grounded out to get Deardorff home. 

Kynder Florea First in Friday Night Division of Sheridan Rodeo; Skyler Third; Brylea Paxson Third in Barrels

Northeast Nodaway student Kynder Florea won the breakaway roping contest in the Friday night division and her older sister Skyler finished third. It was a good night for local cowgirls as Brylea Paxson of Sheridan finished third Friday night, finishing with a time of 15.310 seconds. That was a second better than she did last year.

In the Friday night events, Lane Leeper backed up his flashy shirt, which was compared to John Travolta, and won the Saddle Bronc riding with a score of 71. Chase Kiefer barely made the necessary eight seconds in the bareback, but got credit for a full ride and scored 67. 

In the breakaway roping contest, Skyler was the first to successfully catch a calf, doing it in 3.5 seconds. Kimberly Spurgeon of Eminence (MO) got one in 3.0, only for Kynder Florea to get a time of 2.7 seconds to win. 

The new clown, Jeremy Muntz, kept everyone entertained with his jokes between events. Max Garrett brought his ice cream machine, the Henrys brought their colored popcorn, and there were some other vendors present.

The carpet rides were next. Tyson Troutwine pulled Brayden Stevens, while Dustin Rowen pulled his dad Henry. Brayden was so sure of himself that he didn’t need to know where the ambulance was. Sure enough, in a photo finish, the team of Tyson Troutwine and Brayden Stevens beat out Dustin and Henry Rowen in a photofinish, and they both took their partners around an extra lap for good measure.

Two cowboys, Dale Showers and Brayson Gebhard, successfully rode the saddle bronc event. 

This was followed by Jeremy bringing in the hottest show on the planet. It was the Dinosaur 500, and there were no rules, meaning that contestants could punch and kick away at their competitors. The kid on the blue dinosaur was named “Ander Dingus 2.0.” The red one was named “Kwandale Dingle.” The orange one was named “Ander Dingus 1.0” Ander Dingus 1.0 won the race, which was close all the way, despite being tackled at the end; they managed to fall across the finish line for the win. 

There were a lot of fast calves in the calf roping event, but Levi Nichols got his calf tied up in 13.1 seconds. Jeremy told a tale about the time when his wife texted him asking if he thought she was fat. He answered, “No,” which the technology autocorrected to “MOOO!!” The reader can imagine what went down after that. Winn Shipley won the Over 40 division of the calf roping, also with a time of 13.1 seconds. 

The event that contestants had the most trouble with, as usual, was the team roping. Out of nine contestants during the Friday evening portion of the contest, none of them were able to rope a calf, with one (out of 14) finally doing it in 9.3 seconds in the portion they do after everything is over and the crowds go home. Meanwhile, Jeremy told the story about the time he wanted to take his wife anywhere she wanted to go in the world. But she couldn’t make up her mind where to go, so they finally threw a dart at a globe. “Now, I’m spending two weeks behind the freezer,” said Jeremy.

Jeremy then brought in a new contraption that he bought off a guy at a pawn shop. It was guaranteed to make the lucky entrepreneur billions, because it was guaranteed to take a woman and make her look beautiful. So Jeremy asked for anyone in the audience to volunteer, but there were no takers. Finally, “Julie” agreed to do it and got inside the machine.

But the buttons and dials on the machine were confusing, leading Jeremy to call Customer Service, which, naturally, wasn’t much help since the clerk on the other end didn’t speak English. Finally, Jeremy got it going and the lights, bells, and whistles were working. But unfortunately, when the door opened, it turned “Julie” into a little dog. 

On the very first run in the barrels, Ashley Lattner completed the barrels in a time of 14.748, which stood up for the entire event and got her first place. In between the barrel races and the bulls, Jeremy talked about the time at work when he was playing on his computer and the boss came in to ask him what was going on. “I’m figuring out how to lead our employees,” said Jeremy. “But that’s kickboxing,” said the boss.

There was question whether they would even have the Saturday portion of the Sheridan Rodeo. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch was issued and a cloud came that was supposed to hit right as the Rodeo was supposed to start. But the clouds missed Sheridan to the south, and they were able to have a second night of the Rodeo. 

The team roping got along better, with three able to catch the calves, but one got a broken barrier and two only caught one leg. Tuker Riley took a tumble after being on the bull for just 1½ seconds, but there were three qualified rides, headed by Dustin Sargent, who got a score of 75 on the next to last ride. 

Carl Owens 1956-2024

Carl Owens of Grant City, Missouri, was born September 3, 1956 in Ridgeway, Missouri to Wayne and Hazel (Cook) Owens. He passed away June 24, 2024 at the age of 67.

In 2000 he met Elaine. They were married on January 1, 2005.

Carl had worked at Albany Feed and Grain and Iowa Select. On the side he also helped some local farmers and mowed several yards.

Carl enjoyed playing pool, searching for buckeye trees (he always had some in his pockets) and playing cards with the locals in Albany.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Dickie, Andy, Beanie and Hal, Sisters, Becky Gach and Carolyn Munez and his grandson, Triston Ackley.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine; his children, Jennifer (Brad) Fenimore, Shawn (Courtney) Owens; step-children, Jennifer (Carl) Staton, Jason (Julie) Ackley, Kevin (Jennifer) Ackley and Pat (Amy) Ackley; siblings, Ted (Betty) Owens, Steve (Janet) Owens, Barb (Mike) Stewart and Kathy (John) Overly; sisters-in-law, Roberta Owens and Sonya Owens; brother-in-law, Tracy Gach; 16 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

Visitation: Saturday, June 29 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the Roberson-Polley Chapel, Albany. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Harrison County Hospice in care of Roberson-Polley Chapel, 403 N. Hundley, Albany, MO 64402. Online condolences: www.robersonpolleychapel.com

High Road Draws Several Hundred to Sheridan

Several hundred people came to Sheridan Sunday to hear High Road, a bluegrass and gospel band which has traveled all over the country and internationally and which has played before as many as 15,000 people. It was put on by Sheridan Christian Church. People from Sheridan, Grant City, Ravenwood, Hopkins, Parnell, and Maryville came. There was even a girl from Norway, Elisabeth, whose family provided High Road a barn to perform in while they were in Norway and who is accompanying the band on their current trip. There was a cowboy church group out of Clarinda who performed with High Road in Clarinda the night before and who came with them to Sheridan Sunday night.

The Gentry/Worth Cattlemen’s Association provided the meal. The event drew comparisons to Jerry Clower, who drew around 3,000 people to the area north of the Sheridan School in 1987, where the Rodeo Grounds are now. He dressed up in a bright orange/red suit and talked about how, “I love y’all!” 

High Road is a band consisting of four girls, Sarah, Kristin, Rachel, and Nicole. The band has local ties; Sarah Davison, the founder, was originally from Braddyville. The rest of the band members are from Montana, Kentucky, and North Carolina. One of the bass players for Sunday night’s concert was Andy Wiederholt of Maryville. 

Davison has toured with Country Music Hall of Famer George Jones, performs regularly on the Grand Ole Opry, and has written pieces performed by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Since the group’s genesis, Sarah and bandmates have already garnered a Grammy Nomination for the album, "Gonna Sing, Gonna Shout", the Singing News New Artist of the Year, two Dove Award nominations for Bluegrass/Roots Album of the Year, and Singing News Band of the Year for 2022.  They regularly perform at leading country and Gospel music events including 40 Days at the Ark Encounter, Singing In The Sun, Women of Joy, The National Quartet Convention, Dollywood, and more. 

Dr. Dan Weddle Talks of Mother’s Life as German POW

At the Worth County Alumni Reunion Sunday, Dr. Dan Weddle of the Class of 1974 talked about his mother and her life in a German Prisoner of War camp during World War II on the eastern front. 

The Class of 1964 donated the drinks and the gold plated service for the Class of 1974. Tucker Owens, a member of the Class of 2023, performed some songs. Richard Williams opened with a prayer.

Weddle attended North Harrison through the fifth grade; then, his family moved over the line and he attended Worth County the rest of his school years. He said the two biggest role models of his life were his dad and Coach Don Reece. He said that Reece always taught his boys to do your job, do your best, and be a gentleman whether you won or lost. Weddle said he would look up Reece afterwards. 

At Northwest, Weddle roomed with Ron Walker, Doyle Fisher, and Bob McNeese and met his wife, Kristy, there as well. He then went to vet school at Mizzou, married Kristy along the way, and graduated from there in 1981. Along the way, he met Steve Goff and partnered with him before starting a practice in Mount Ayr. Weddle, Ken Hunt, and Keith Miller partnered and Dr. Goff joined them in 1988, opening an office in Grant City that he ran until 2006. 

In 2020, Weddle sold his practice, but is still working. He had two children, Janice and Katie along with two grandchildren.

But it was his mother that Dr. Weddle wanted to talk about. She was born in the former Soviet Union and grew up in Mariupol, scene of some of the most brutal fighting between Russia and Ukraine in 2022 in the current war. One of her relatives was sent off to the gulags by Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin, but when Nazi Germany invaded the Soviet Union in 1941, she joined the Red Army and became a sniper. She was wounded and captured in front of Stalingrad, but before she was, she had assumed the identity of a nurse. 

She was taken to a factory in Poland, where she was forced to make ammunition for the German war effort. Conditions were horrible, with prisoners issued one loaf a week, along with a daily ration of thin soup, cabbage, and possibly a potato. Sometimes, prisoners would eat the whole loaf of bread by the time they got back to their barracks. Typhoid fever and other diseases were common. 

But the Soviets started fighting back and Weddle’s mother was transferred to Dachau, where there were other Russians, Jews, and prisoners of war that the Germans had captured. They were liberated in 1945 by the Americans. It was Earl Hardy’s unit who liberated the camp; he was the father of David Hardy. 

Weddle’s dad, meanwhile, had participated in the D-Day invasion and wound up in southern Germany, where she met. Dr. Weddle’s older brother was born there in 1946, and they returned to the US in 1946. Weddle’s mother was fluent in French and several other languages, but didn’t understand English, which meant that conversations around the household were in French when they were first married. Subsequently, they started a farm near Hatfield.

Weddle’s mother tried for many years to restore contact with her Russian family, but the Iron Curtain descended over Russia and Eastern Europe following the war, and it was difficult to get mail through. Finally, she got a letter back from her mother and uncle, who had moved to what is now Moldavia following the war, and they corresponded in Russian until her death in 1974, when they lost contact.

But in 1991, a letter came from Russia to the Grant City Post Office, and Loretta Rinehart, the postmaster at the time, went out of her way to get it forwarded to Dr. Weddle, and he was able to get some of his wife’s relatives sponsored into the US in 1992, and they subsequently got their citizenship.

“My dad always told me I was half Russian and a half wit,” said Dr. Weddle.

Carolyn Jones, who was in attendance, said to Dr. Weddle, “Alice Miller told us all about your mom. She told us she was one of the smartest people she ever met. She said that if certain boys would go to Russia for two weeks, they would come back and say, ‘God Bless America!’”

Around $369 was collected Sunday to cover expenses and award scholarships. The Alumni Association is looking for people to serve. Carolyn Hardy, who emceed the reunion, marked her 40th year of service to the Worth County Alumni Association. 

Scholarships this year went to Autumn Cousatte and Brylea Rush. There were 38 people in attendance and six guests. Barbara Stephenson was the oldest person in attendance, from the Class of 1953. The Hardy family had four members present. David Howard of Jamestown (NY) came from the farthest away, around 1,000 miles. The class with the most people in attendance was the Class of 1974, with 11 present out of a total of 32 members.

North Harrison Approves Salary Schedule, Awards Food Bids

The North Harrison School Board, at their June 19th meeting, approved the salary schedule. The school is waiting on approval of the Teacher Baseline Salary Grant, which could be in August or later. This will allow the school to pay a minimum of $40,000 to its certified teaching staff at no additional cost to the district. This will adjust the salary of 14 out of its 24 teachers and add up to $33,582 in state monies for salary and benefits.

The board zeroed out the teacher’s fund and transferred $162,326 from the general fund to the capital projects fund.

Kiley Taylor was named 9th grade sponsor.

The board approved an amended CSIP which includes a required literacy plan.

Food bids were awarded. Anderson/Erickson was awarded the milk bid. Graves Foods was awarded the bread bid. NEW Cooperative was awarded the propane and diesel bids.

Superintendent Ethan Sickels reported that the school is applying for the preschool grant again. If approved, they will be able to offer free preschool for four year olds and cover the costs of the program.

Repairs on the Cooling Tower were completed at the beginning of May with a cost of $15,300. The contractor is in the process of flushing the HVAC system. All of the interior leaks have been fixed.

The school is seeking a grant to purchase a new sound system. This will allow them to announce events at the new track or inside the building. 

The school will have a new cell phone policy for the upcoming school year. Cell phones, ear buds, and other electronic devices will not be allowed to be used in the school building during the normal school day, with exceptions for passing time and lunch. During allowed usage times, the phone must be on vibrate. If major issues occur due to the use of cell phones, the administration reserves the right to revoke cell phone privileges for all students. Students may bring cell phones to the high school office and retrieve them at the end of the day or keep them in their locker. Students are not to have cell phones, ear buds, or any other electronic devices within the classroom during the school day. If a teacher sees such items, they will be confiscated. Violators will be subject to disciplinary action.

Barbara Landrum 1947-2024

Barbara Ann Landrum, age 77, Grant City, Missouri passed away Thursday, June 20, 2024 at her home in Grant City with her family by her side.

Barb was born March 30, 1947 in Mt. Ayr, Iowa.  She was the daughter of Elvis and Bonnie Lou (Brower) Baker.

Barb attended Worth County R-III High School in Grant City.

She married the love of her life Garry Lynn Landrum on August 24, 1963 in Allendale, Missouri.  To this union three children were born Lori, Alicia and Scott.

Barb was the Dietary Supervisor at the Worth County Convalescent Center.  Due to health reasons, she retired after twenty-eight years of serving in the kitchen at the Convalescent Center.

Barb was a member of the RLDS Church, Allendale, Missouri.

She was preceded in death by her parents Elvis and Bonnie Baker and a sister, Connie Edington. 

Her survivors include son Scott (Kim) Landrum, Shawnee, Kansas, daughters Lori Jennings, Grant City, Alicia Landrum, Maryville, Missouri, grandchildren Heidi (Blake), Tyler, Korby (Megan), Anna, Cole, Emily, great grandchildren Jocelyn, and Evelyn, Reef, Kona, sister Cheryl Smith, brothers Ronnie (Stacey), Randy (Becky) and Ricky (Heather) Baker, nephews, nieces, and a host of other friends and loved ones.

Graveside services and burial will be at 2 PM, Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at the Knox Cemetery, Worth, Missouri.  The Rev. Len Green will be officiating.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Hann Funeral Home, Grant City.

andrewshannfuneralhome.com

North Nodaway Accepts Resignation, Hires Fourth Grade Teacher, JH Cheer Coach

The North Nodaway School Board accepted the resignation of Addison Oglesby as fifth grade teacher. They voted to hire Damgar Whipple as the fourth grade teacher. They approved Emily Higgins and Kelly Lininger as gate duty coordinators. They named Ashlie Marriott as junior high basketball cheer coach.

Work on the budget for the next year is nearly finished. The board will have a special meeting on the morning of June 28th at 8:30 am to approve the budget for the 2024-25 school year.

The board worked on various handbooks. The board approved a rough draft of the Transportation Handbook. The District Staff handbook was approved with staff changes. The High School Handbook has a new change. Students will not be allowed to bring blankets to school due to hygiene concerns. Students can still bring blankets on buses or to athletic events.

The Elementary, Athletic, and A+ Handbooks were approved with no changes.

The board renewed the contract with Conrad & Higgins out of Chillicothe and Princeton to audit the school finances for the next three years. The audit for the 2023-24 school year will be done for $6,950. The audit for the 2024-25 school year will be done for $7,150. The audit for the 2025-26 school year will be done for $7,350. 

The board authorized the Ag program to apply for a 50/50 grant through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for a power washer and other equipment for the bus barn. The old one was shot.

The board authorized application for the teacher baseline grant, which will raise teacher salaries to $40,000. It is contingent on the state fully funding the grant. There is concern that the legislature approved various measures without actually funding them. There are concerns that the state could take it out of the transportation money, or that the governor could withhold funds due to revenues coming in lower than expected. The measure does not apply to teachers already making $40,000 or more, but they will get their $1,400 baseline increase that the board has already approved.

The board lined up more summer work for the school. The board approved a bid from Helzer Fencing for a six foot wood privacy fence around the elementary playground. It will be a 42 foot by 37 foot fence with a six foot gate to get the mower through and a walk gate to get to the propane tanks to fill them. The total cost will be $9,650.08.

The board approved a project from One Point Partitions to build new partitions for the high school restrooms for $13,000. They come with a 25 year warranty. The old ones had stains and rust and the girls restrooms on the third floor were not ADA compliant. 

The board received two bids to put new carpeting in for the high school. Shannon Griffin put in a bid for $10,000. 4K Flooring put in a bid for $17,440.50. Both had done work for the school in the last. Both bids included installation, demolition of old carpet, rubber coves where needed, and floor prep. The project includes the resource room, the coaches office, the social studies room, the middle school math and language arts rooms, the nurses and the AD office, Mr. West’s room, the counselor’s office, the high school language arts room, the library, the old board room, and the ag classroom. The project does not include the music room. The school will provide the dumpster. The school awarded the project to Shannon Griffin.

The board received two bids to put in new lockers for the high school. Pioneer submitted a bid for $82,878 for 114 lockers, while locker.com submitted a bid for $54,954.75. Both came with a 20 year warranty. One of the biggest needs that students had requested was for new lockers. These lockers will be bigger than the current lockers. The school will provide the labor. 

The board voted to raise meal prices. Student lunch prices, except for students who qualify for free or reduced lunches, will go up 10 cents for both breakfast and lunch. Adult lunch prices will go up 10 cents for breakfast and 25 cents for lunch. Since the school has a negative lunch balance, they have to raise lunch prices over a period of time in order to make up the difference.

For breakfast, elementary students will pay $2.10 while adults will pay $2.70. For lunch, elementary will pay $3.20, middle school and high school $3.40, and adults $4.47. Extra milk will cost 50 cents, seconds $2.25, chef salad $4.47, sides $1.25, and orange juice 55 cents.

The board voted to purchase new social studies textbooks from Savvas for both middle school and high school for a total of $14,787.62. Books include economics, US history, and world history for the high school and American history, geography, and world history for middle school. The books include both hardbound and online components. 

The board also voted to purchase math and entrepreneurship textbooks from McGraw-Hill for $10,849.59. This includes books for entrepreneurship, algebra 1 and 2, geometry, junior high math, and business math. 

The board voted to purchase 120 new computers from VIG Solutions in Texas for a total of $9,040. These computers will replace older computers which have run out of life.

The board awarded the trash contract to Porter Trash for $372/month, plus $50 for each pickup of recyclables. This is down from last year, when they charged $410/month.

The school received three bids for the propane service. Agriland bid $1.096 per gallon. MFA bid $1.22 per gallon. Consumer Oil big $1.3602. The board renewed its bid with Agriland.

Anderson/Erickson was the only bidder for the milk service. The board accepted the bid. Milk went up 3-4 cents per carton, but the yogurt and cottage cheese was unchanged. 

The board received three bids for food. Graves Menu Maker received the primary bid; under the contract, the school must purchase at least 70% of its food from them. Most of their items were cheaper than the other two. Falls City Mercantile and Sysco were the other two bidders. The school will use them where their foods are cheaper. Also, Sysco has no minimum delivery.

Elementary Principal Heather Townsend reported that the last day of school featured grilled hot dogs, an awards assembly, a fifth grade promotion walk, and a water dump at the end. Corey Everhart is working on the painting. Hallway and kitchen floors have been refinished. All of the cafeteria has been completed. Ridge Clements, Blaine Clements, Ty Moyer, and Latham Ebrecht have been helping with the summer work. The two long closets in the gym have been cleaned out and removed, giving kids more room to play on. The old fence and playground equipment are being taken out. The flag will be moved and t an elementary sign will be put up. The school transplanted some flowers. The school received a health department inspection. The door to the old lunchroom will be enclosed.

High School Principal Roger Johnson reported that several students have been attending summer weight training, camps, and basketball scrimmages and shootouts. Four students have been hired to help with the summer renovations. Five students have participated in credit recovery programs or attendance makeups. Preparations have been made for registration, Back to School Night, and 6th garde orientation. 

The elementary and high school calendars have been merged into one single calendar to make it easier for parents to follow.

Professional development days have been planned. The class schedule has been finalized.

Mr. Johnson, Mr. West, and Mr. Bix attended a training session in St. Joseph on a STEM resource, Learning Blade, that the school can use for free. They will be incorporating various components into the curriculum.

Many students will be involved in the upcoming Hopkins Picnic.

There will be 10 vo-tech students, 10 in dual credit, 2 in work release, and 6 cadet teachers for next year.

Superintendent Chris Turpin reported that Access Elevator has worked on the elevator and has made it a smoother ride. The Alumni Banquet was a huge success. The school is looking for a football coach to assist Johnny Silkett with the Platte Valley football program. They are also looking for a high school social studies teacher.

The school has two grants outstanding. Turpin said the school should hear back on them in 2-3 weeks. 

Catherine Kinder 1921-2024

Catherine J. Kinder, 102, Bethany, formerly of Eagleville, died Sunday June 16 at Crestview Home.

Catherine was born near Hatfield, Missouri to Mina Ellen (Koger) and James Augustus Sweeney.

She Married Olen Wayne Kinder on August 15, 1939 in Bethany, MO. This union was blessed with two children, Dannie Hugh and Delsa Lou. Catherine was a homemaker and a member of the Eagleville United Methodist Church.

Catherine was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son; daughter-in-law: Carol; 8 brothers, 3 sisters, five half-brothers and three half-sisters. She is survived by her daughter; 5 grandchildren: Julie, Billy (Courtney), Andy (Beth), Buffy (Daren), and Angie (Chris); 19 great-grandchildren and 23 great-great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be Friday, June 21 at 11:30 a.m. at Bethany Memorial Chapel with burial at the Payne Cemetery, Hatfield. Family will receive friends at the funeral home from 10:30 a.m. until service time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts are suggested to the Eagleville United Methodist Church or Payne Cemetery in care of the funeral home.  Tributes may be left at www.bethanymemorialchapel.

Donna Carmichael 1932-2024

Donna Mae Carmichael of Maryville, MO, passed peacefully from this life on June 20, 2024, to meet her Savior and those who have gone before.  She died at the age of 92 years.  Her Life journey was marked by kindness, generosity and love.

Donna Mae, the fourth born child of Elmer Baker Hanna and Lerita Lett Hanna, entered our world on January 28, 1932, and along with her five siblings grew up in rural Nodaway County Missouri.  She attended Long Branch Grade School and graduated from Pickering High School in 1950.  One highlight was being crowned 1948 Queen of the Pickering Horse Show.  

She attended Northwest Missouri State College following HS graduation the next two summers.  She taught grades 1-8 in a one room country school, Mt. Pleasant Grade School for two consecutive school years.

Donna married her high school sweetheart, John Carmichael, Jr, on May 28, 1952, at the Hanna family farm near Pickering, MO.  They left immediately for Long Island, NY, where Jr was stationed in the US Army.  The couple met lifelong friends while stationed there.

She is survived by her daughter, Dee Ann (Ron) Church of Beverly, KS, grandsons, John (Shanley) Morton and Justin Wilmes, of Maryville.  Extended family includes Kelsey (Dan) Challans, Mallorie, Michael, Makenna, Miles Marshall; Brandon (Krystal) Church, Russell, Benjamin; and Tyler (Courtney) Church, Tripp and Clara.

Also surviving are her sisters, Ethelda (Billy) Owens of Stewartsville, MO, and Deanna Hilton (friend, Allen Hall) of Tabor, IA, sister-in-law Marquerite Carmichael of Maryville, and several nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Preceding Donna in death were her parents, her husband John Carmichael, Jr, her brothers Bill Hanna, and Francis Hanna (died in infancy), her sister Doris Hatcher-Sample, sister-in-law Hazel Bleich, and brothers-in-law Virgil Carmichael, Ralph Hatcher, Byron Sample, and Gene Hilton.

Donna spent 30 years of her life serving her county as Deputy and Recorder of Deeds.  Prior employment was with Lloyd Chain Corp and Sears, Roebuck & Co in Maryville.  She was a member of the Maryville First United Methodist Church, the Ester Circle and BPW club.  Family vacations were enjoyed each summer.

Family and friends will remember Donna’s artistic design abilities and organizational skills, which included caregiver for both parents, celebrating family birthdays, holidays, hosting card parties and being the official family historian.

Donna’s family deeply appreciates the special care of Rob and Sylvia Church, Toni Schafer, Nodaway Nursing Home, Three Rivers Hospice and Bram Funeral Home.

Services for Donna will be on Monday, June 24, 2024, at 11:00 AM, at the Bram Funeral Home, Maryville, MO.  The family will be there one hour prior to the service.

The family will receive friends from 4-6:00 PM, on Sunday, June 23, 2024, at the Bram Funeral Home.  

Memorials are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association of American, 322 8th Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001.

Worth County School Board Hires Cody Green as Varsity Softball Coach, Accepts Two Resignations

The Worth County School Board, at their regular meeting Wednesday, hired Cody Green as the new varsity girls softball coach. The school is still looking for coaches for the junior high girls softball team and the varsity girls basketball team. The board accepted two more resignations, from High School Counselor Jessica Maschino and Ag Teacher Reese Zollman. The board filled one teaching vacancy when they offered Alec Summers a social studies teaching contract.

The board accepted a $1.75 million rebate for five electric school buses and the infrastructure to charge them with. In order to accept the buses, the school must decommission, donate, or sell five buses. There will be no cost to the district. The district will receive rebates and can sell two of the replacement buses. The school is one of 18 in the state to get the rebate.

The school put out a fact sheet on the buses. Schools receive transportation money from the state for allowable costs. Sometimes, it is 75%, but more frequently, it is closer to 25%. Schools can depreciate buses over eight years to help pay for new buses. These funds could finance new buses as needed. Batteries for the new electric buses have an eight year warranty and EV components have a five year warranty.

Electric buses will have a range of 100 miles and will recharge from 0% to 100% in five hours. Gas or diesel buses will be used for longer trips. When an electric bus runs out of life, batteries can be converted to stationary storage and buses can be recycled or refurbished. 

Operational costs will be an estimated 80% less than operations and maintenance of a diesel bus. Estimated operating savings will be approximately $33,000 a year. 

Over the span of 5-12 years, the district will need to replace the five electric buses. The district would be free to purchase gas, diesel, or other buses and can use state transportation money to do so. Currently, the school has 3-5 diesel buses that need to be replaced. The cost of replacement is approximately $120,000 per bus. That is around $360,000 in expenses that are avoided.

Currently, the school has four buses that have over 100,000 miles with two being over 200,000 miles. Five of their eight buses are from 2011 or older, with the oldest being from 2002. All of the buses passed the Highway Patrol’s inspection. Statewide, around 88% of buses pass inspection.

Superintendent Chris Healy updated the board on summer facility projects. Softball lights and the new fence will go up in July, as will new football bleachers. The elementary LED light replacement is in progress. The gym floor will be refinished in fall 2024. The building welding area will be upgraded in summer 2024. Other bond projects, including the new foyer connecting the high school to the ag building, will take place in summer 2025.

The board approved the budget for the upcoming school year. The school is expected to see their enrollment increase to 285 pupils, with an average daily attendance rate of 262. The elementary, which now includes PK, will serve approximately 160 students. The high school is expected to serve around 125 students. 

The new budget reflects a 4.6% increase in salaries and benefits from last year. This is impacted by the state grant, which will increase the minimum teacher salary to $400,000. Administration will receive a 5% increase, and non-certified staff will receive a 12% increase. The district will continue to contribute $500 per month towards the employee’s district health care plan. Health insurance is offered to all employees that work 20 or more hours per month. Each employee also received a $15,000 life insurance policy paid for by the school.

The last COVID-19 relief funds were received by the district in 2023-24, so operating fund revenues will decrease in 2024-25 by approximately $650,000. Local revenues are also less due to grants received in 2023-24. State revenues are projected to be $150,000 less due to grants received in 2024. Federal revenues will decrease approximately $300,000, since all ESSER funds have been expended. The district will receive $1,300,000 in revenue from the sale of bonds, and that money has been budgeted to complete renovation of football bleachers, new softball lights, the connection of the main high school building to the ag building, new vestibules, and other work. 

For the current school year, local revenues are projected to be $2,248,532. County revenues are projected to be $351,124. State revenues are projected to be $1,909,935. Federal revenues are projected to be $666,491. Non-current revenues are projected to be $1,000. Revenue from other sources is projected to be $7,376, for a total of $5,174,459. Expenditures are projected to be $4,567,217 for a projected surplus of $607,242. 

For the upcoming school year, local revenues are expected to be $1,930,350. County revenues are projected to be $301,000. State revenues are projected to be $1,772,376. Federal revenues are projected to be $311,926. The school will get $1,300,500 from the recently passed bond issue and is expected to get $7,000 from other sources for a total of $5,623,152. Total expenses are projected to be $5,889,424 for a projected deficit of $266,272. Current operating fund reserves are around 70% of annual expenses, and if the projections hold out, that number is expected to decrease to 64%. For the last several years, the school has typically planned for a worst-case scenario budget with a deficit of around $300,000, which has never happened. 

The board set new meal prices for the upcoming school year. Elementary breakfast will cost $1.90. High school breakfast will be $2.10. Elementary lunch will be $2.65. High school lunch will be $2.95. School district lunch costs increased 34 cents per meal and breakfast costs increased 20 cents per meal.

The school is seeking a grant from the Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education to fund its Pre-K program. If awarded, the school will receive $50,000 for a room of 11-20 students and $25,000 for a room of 10 students. The board approved seeking the grant.

The next meeting will be held on July 17th at 6 pm in the Superintendent’s Office.

Area Courthouse, Police, and Crime Reports for June 19th, 2024

On June 10th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Oluwatomsin Adebowale (28) of Atlanta (GA) on charges of Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Cannabidiol. Bond was set at $2,000, cash only.

On June 11th, James Boles (60) of Maryville pleaded guilty in Nodaway County Associate Circuit Court to an amended charge of Operating Vehicle Without Properly Equipped Bumpers. He was assessed $300 in fines and court costs by Judge Robert Rice. 

On June 11th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Tyler O’Neal (31) of King City alleging Assault and Peace Disturbance.

On June 11th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Brandon Brown (37) of Burlington Junction alleging Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

On June 11th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Angela Havener (66) of Clarinda alleging Stealing. An affidavit from the Maryville Police Department alleges that between April 21st and May 25th, the defendant stole a combined total of $227.18 worth of merchandise from the Maryville Wal-Mart.

On June 11th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Gary Spire (70) of Parnell alleging Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

On June 11th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Ethan Rice (23) of Smithville alleging DWI (Prior) and Speeding (56 mph in a 35 mph zone). 

On June 11th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Bailey Hutchins (33) of Grant City alleging Violation of a Protection Order. Bond was set at $2,000, posted by the defendant.

On June 11th, the Ringgold County Sheriff’s Department arrested Brandon Frey (33) of Laporte (CO) on charges of DWI (3rd or subsequent) and Driving While Revoked. Bond was set at $7,000, cash only. 

On June 11th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 1999 Saab driven by a 16 year old Eagleville teen was eastbound on 400th Street near Melbourne (MO) in Harrison County at around 12 noon. The vehicle lost control on the gravel road, crossed over into the westbound lane, crossed over 337th Avenue, traveled into a ditch, and struck an embankment multiple times. He received minor injuries and was taken to Harrison County Community Hospital.

On June 11th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2017 Peterbilt driven by Brent Howard (61) of Eddyville (IA) was southbound on I-35 six miles south of Bethany at around 10:40 pm. The vehicle traveled off the roadway into the median. The vehicle overcorrected, causing it and its towed unit to overturn. Howard received moderate injuries and was taken to Harrison County Hospital.

On June 12th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Albert Ferguson (39) of Maryville alleging DWI (Felony), Resisting Arrest (Felony), and No Valid License (Felony). Bond was set at $10,000, cash or corporate surety.

On June 13th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Shane Schumacher (20) of Maryville alleging Trespassing.

On June 13th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Tyler Manley (34) of Parnell alleging Assault (Felony). Bond was set at $10,000, with the defendant to be released on his own recognizance.

On June 13th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Robert Lowe (49) of Monticello (KY) alleging Stealing (Felony). Bond was denied. An affidavit from the Maryville Police Department alleges the defendant stole a vehicle from Maryville and subsequently wrecked it in Atchison County.

On June 14th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Daniel Fitzmier (32) of Mound City alleging Failure to Register as Sex Offender (Felony). 

On June 14th, Nicholas Orozco (39) of Topeka (KS) was ordered extradited to Wyandotte County (KS) from Gentry County by Judge Rebecca McGinley to face a charge of Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony). Orozco had failed to appear on February 7th in Wyandotte County. Bond was denied.

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. 

Hadley DeFreece Fans 16, Bluejays Hold Off Platte Valley 8-6

Hadley DeFreece fanned 16 Platte Valley batters Thursday, but the Bluejay softball team had to cling by their fingernails in the last inning before reversing their fortunes against Platte Valley and getting an 8-6 win. Platte Valley had their number a year ago and in districts two years ago. 

As Hadley was striking out batters right and left, Northeast built up a big lead, starting with two in the first. Baylie Busby got a triple, followed by a double from Hadley DeFreece, and a single from Brianna Meyer to make it 4-0. Hayley Yost grounded out to advance them and Makenzie Pride beat out an infield hit to score another run to make it 5-0.

Despite some baserunning gaffes, the Bluejays continued to pull away as they got one in the fourth. Sasha Deardorff got the benefit of a call on a 3-2 pitch, stole second, and took third on a throwing error and Mylee Wilmes singled her home. The Bluejays loaded the bases with one out in the sixth as Yost walked, Makenzie Pride singled, and Sasha Deardorff beat out an infield hit. Mylee Wilmes’ bad bop single scored two more to make it 8-0.

But the Bluejays got four runners thrown out on the basepaths that night, and that was enough to give Platte Valley hope. A bad hop single started off the Platte Valley sixth as Kenzie Redden reached safely. Like Northeast Nodaway, Conception Junction had a treacherous infield that was susceptible to bad hops. Northeast got an out, but then Platte Valley totally changed their approach at the plate. Instead of chasing Hadley DeFreece’s high pitches and striking out, they suddenly starting holding up on them and fouling off anything close. That led to three walks in a row to force in a run. 

DeFreece struck out the next batter, but then the top of the lineup came up and a tough grounder was snagged by shortstop Brianna Meyer, but she had no play anywhere and everybody was safe. Maleeah Bliley came up and cleared the bases with a three run double, and came home to make it 8-6 after getting in a rundown, but then DeFreece struck out the next batter for the final out to preserve Northeast’s unbeaten (so far) season. 

Sheridan Birthdays & Anniversaries for July 2024

July Birthdays

1 – Lisa Reidlinger, Adoliyn Asher; 2 – Trent Hamblin, Les New, Kathryn Farnan, Jack Fisher, Vicki Walker, Debbie Cordell; 3 – Stetson West, Brooke Monticue, Jared Simmons; 4 – Robert Fine, Sharon Paxson, Ronnie Van Fossan; 5 – Jana Finch, Samantha Morrow; 6 – Jonna Shoda, Brandon Allee, Jessica Garrett, Shane Morrow, Pete Belokonny, Terry Lee, Kirby Bradford; 7 – Mattie Dimmitt, Haley (Hunt) Boulting, Susan Schaffer; 8 – Sharon Hart, Chris Smith, Tina Fletchall; 9 – Stormy Sherer; 10 – Tenley Troutwine, Brently Troutwine, Allen Allee, Laura Lebow, Katey Lipiec, Brian Hunt, Chris Ray, David Rowe; 11 – Langston Smith, Brad Hardy, Kyle Hansen, Yolanda Verbeck; 13 – Corey DeMott, Kim Brand, Deb Parman; 14 – Lori (Constant) Haws Slagle; 15 – Terrill Owens, Dr. Tim Wall; 16 – Paul Nelson, Larry Dowis; 17 – Norrin Buel, Garrett Hawk; 18 – Landon Combs, Chase Davidson, Della Sue (Fletchall) Asher, Jude Finch, Duane Finch, Daniel Finch; 19 – Elaine Mitchell, Emilia Gladman; 20 – Zephyr Goolsby, Sandra Meredith, Addyson Lee Heideman, Bo DeMott, John Williams; 22 – Carrol Gladman, , Brylea Paxson, Debra (Parman) Dukes; 23 – Josh Parman, Kay Smith; 24 – Chandler Smith, J.T. Titus; 25 – Kalli Marie Ebeling, Eloise Brienne Scott; 26 – Kyzer Maudlin; 29 – Sara Wyer Coleman; Tara Wyer, Alexis Hawk; 30 – Mary Kay Hunt, Morgan Hawk; 31 – Mackenzie Hawk.

July Anniversaries

2 – Novaly & Keegan King, Dee & Harold Wake; 3 – Michelle (Hansen) & Josh Metcalf; 4 – Sue & Bobbie Heideman; 7 – Patty & Steve Paxson, Charity & Mike Moyer; 8 – Tina & Chris Fletchall; 9 – Sarah & Paul Hoff; 22 – MiTasha & Jarod Loseke; 23 – Debbie & Jeff Thummel; Christie & David Petersen.

Hazel Young 1944-2024

Hazel Irene Young, 79, of Hopkins, Missouri, passed away on Monday, June 10, 2024, at the Maryville Living Center, Maryville, Missouri.

Hazel was born in Maryville on November 12, 1944, to Delbert Reed and Anna Marie (Lattin) Morton.  She grew up in Hopkins and the family had lived in Southwest Iowa for several years and moved back to the Hopkins area in 1972.

She graduated from Hopkins High School in 1962.  She delivered newspapers in the 1970’s, the St. Joe, the Maryville Daily Forum and on Sunday, the Des Moines Register.  She was also a clerk for Maurice Riley, at Wilson’s Grocery.  Later she was a cook for many years at the Beverly Healthcare Center, now Maryville Living, in Maryville.  

She married Arthur Dean Hansen, Sr., and he passed away in 1977, later she married Jack M. Young, and he passed in 2014.  She was also preceded in death by her parents, her son, Thomas R. Hansen, her 3 sisters, Mary Welther, Martha Morton, and Genevieve Wiltrout, and her 3 brothers, William, Sam and Delbert Morton.  

She was a member and attended the First Baptist Church, Hopkins, Missouri, and also a member of the Hopkins Community Betterment Committee. She enjoyed mowing the yard, watching westerns on TV, NASCAR, and the Dallas Cowboys.  

She leaves behind her children, Arthur Dean (Rhonda) Hansen, Jr., Hopkins, Cary (Barb) Hansen, Nevada, Iowa, Carmen Allen, Ames, Iowa, and her adopted daughter, Lorrie Schatz, Hopkins.  And her brother, Kenneth Morton, Granite City, Illinois, and her sister-in-law, Annabelle Morton, Maryville, Missouri, 8 grandchildren, Justin Hansen, Sebina Hansen, Kalen Mosley, Dominic Mosley, Jeremy Hansen, Monica Koch, Trevor Hansen, and Brett Allen, 2 great grandchildren, Jacoby Davis, Coralynn Hansen, and many nieces and nephews.  

Funeral services will be at 1:00 PM, on Friday, June 14, 2024, at the First Baptist Church, Hopkins, Missouri.  The burial will follow in the Hopkins Cemetery, Hopkins, Missouri.  

The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service at the Church.  

Services are under the direction of the Bram Funeral Home, Maryville, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the First Baptist Church, 401 S. 3rd St., Hopkins, Missouri 64461.

Area Courthouse, Police, and Crime Reports for June 12th, 2024

On June 4th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Jacob Wooten (31) of Burlington Junction alleging Possession of Methamphetamine (Felony) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bond was denied. 

On June 4th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Brewster Pepper (39) of Ravenwood alleging Child Abuse (Felony) and Resisting Arrest (Felony). Bond was set at $10,000, cash or corporate surety, posted by the defendant.

On June 4th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Adrienne Bryson (43) of Eagleville alleging Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident), DWI, and No Valid License. 

On June 4th, Ashok Ganji  pleaded guilty in Nodaway County Associate Circuit Court to an amended charges of Driving Without Properly Equipped Bumpers. He was assessed fines and court costs totaling $225 by Judge Robert Rice.

On June 4th, Peyton Doerr (20) of Verdon (NE) pleaded guilty in Nodaway County Associate Circuit Court to charges of Leaving the Scene, Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway, DWI, and No Seat Belt. He was fined $510 plus costs and placed on probation for two years by Judge Robert Rice. Defendant must not possess alcoholic beverages or enter a place whose principal occupation is the sale of alcohol until he is 21, not operate a motor vehicle unless lawfully licensed, and complete the Midwest Victim Impact Program by September 4th. Fines and costs have been paid in full.

On June 4th, Joshua Korte (24) of Bowling Green (MO) pleaded guilty in Nodaway County Associate Circuit Court to an amended charge of Driving Without Properly Equipped Bumpers. He was assessed fines and court costs by Judge Robert Rice totaling $225.

On June 4th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2017 Chevy Malibu (47) of Ravenwood driven by Jennifer Osborn (47) of Ravenwood was southbound on Route 46 just south of Holtman’s Repair Shop in Ravenwood at around 5:59 pm when she ran off the west side of the roadway and crashed into several mailboxes and a fire hydrant before overturning. She received moderate injuries and was taken to Mosaic in Maryville. Subsequently, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Osborn on charges of DWI (Drugs) and Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident). 

On June 4th, between 6 pm and 7 pm, a popup storm went through Ravenwood, Parnell, Hopkins, and Grant City with 50 mph winds and heavy rain. A small tornado was spotted on the southwest side of Parnell, where it blew down some branches on Main Street. A branch was down in the Grant City Courtyard. The power flickered off twice in Ravenwood, but came back on and there was minor flooding into the Tuck Point Bar & Grill. In Sheridan, the power went off and was not expected to be restored until 8 am, but it came back on at around 10:20 pm. 

On June 4th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested Kody Bradley (31) of Eagleville in Harrison County on charges of DWI, Unlawfully Operating ATV on Highway, and No Valid License. 

On June 5th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Dieter filed charges against Cameron Smith (42) of Maryville alleging Child Abuse (Felony). Bond was set at $10,000, with the defendant released on his own recognizance. 

On June 5th, Philip Hanks (49) of Grant City pleaded guilty to a charge of Fraudulent Use of a Credit Device in Harrison County Associate Circuit Court. He was sentenced to two years probation by Judge Jay Hemenway. The defendant must have no contact with the victims, witnesses, or their families or enter residences or businesses owned by them without their consent, make $300 payment to Law Enforcement Restitution Fund, make $535.75 restitution through the Prosecutor’s office, and pay a $75 PA fee. 

On June 5th, Tanner Sims (32) of Bethany pleaded guilty in Harrison County Associate Circuit Court to a charge of Violation of a Protection Order. He was  sentenced to 21 days in jail by Judge Jay Hemenway with credit for 21 days time served.

On June 5th, Angela Herman (55) of St. Joseph failed to appear in Gentry County Associate Circuit Court on a charge of Driving While Revoked (Felony). Judge Rebecca McGinley issued a warrant. Bond was set at $1,000, cash or corporate surety. 

On June 6th, Nicholas Merrigan (39) of Clarksdale pleaded guilty to DWI (Felony, Causing the Death of Another) in Gentry County Circuit Court. Judge Corey Herron sentenced him to 5 years probation with 10 days shock time and 60 days house arrest. Defendant must not possess or consume any alcoholic beverages, not enter a place whose principal occupation is the sale or dispensing of alcoholic beverage, submit to blood, breath, and urine tests, successfully complete a substance abuse treatment program and follow recommendations, not operate any motor vehicle unless lawfully licensed, and maintain SCRAM detection device. 

On June 6th, David Cole pleaded guilty in Gentry County Circuit Court to Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (Felony). He was sentenced by Judge Corey Herron to 4 years probation. Defendant must not possess or consume alcoholic beverages, not be in any place whose primary purpose is the sale or dispensing of alcoholic beverages, submit to blood, breath, and urine tests, complete a substance abuse evaluation, and complete a mental health evaluation. 

On June 7th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Richard Warner (72) of New Hampton alleging Sex Offender Present at Park. Missouri Law prohibits registered sex offenders from being physically present in or loitering within 500 feet of a park, pool, or museum. Bond was denied.

On June 7th, a Jackson County Grand Jury indicted Dominic Miller on charges of Murder (2nd Degree), two counts Armed Criminal Action (Felony), and Unlawful Use of a Weapon (Felony). This is in conjunction with the shooting on February 14th at the Kansas City Chiefs Victory Parade.

On June 7th, Caiden Hash (19) of Decker (MI) pleaded guilty in Gentry County Associate Circuit Court to charges of Speeding (80 mph), Careless & Imprudent Driving, Minor In Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was fined $805.50 plus court costs by Judge Rebecca McGinley.

On June 10th, Fabian Arias Mendoza of Mexico failed to appear in Harrison County Associate Circuit Court on charges of Careless & Imprudent Driving (Accident) and Driving Wrong Way on Divided Highway. A warrant for his arrest was ordered by Judge Jay Hemenway. Bond was set at $1,000, cash only.

On June 10th, Ventrell Wright (42) of Lafayette (LA) failed to appear in Harrison County Associate Circuit Court on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony), Speeding, and No Valid License. A warrant for his arrest was ordered by Judge Jay Hemenway. Bond was set at $15,000, cash only.

On June 10th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against William Cain (34) of Cainsville alleging DWI, Failure to Drive on Right Half of Roadway, No Insurance, and No Seat Belt.

On June 10th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 2024 Subaru Cross-Trek driven by Kullen Duff (37) of Cainsville was eastbound on Route MM in Harrison County, six miles north of Gilman City at around 9:30 pm. The vehicle struck a cow in the road. A passenger, Jack Buckman (23) of Albany, received minor injuries. Duff was not injured.

On June 11th, Harrison County Prosecutor Alex Van Zandt filed charges against Forest Buckman (34) of Bethany alleging Burglary (Felony) and Tampering With Motor Vehicle (Felony). Bond was set at $10,000, cash only. An affidavit from the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office alleges the department got a call on June 10th regarding a burglary in progress in Bethany. A homeowner allegedly held the defendant at gunpoint after the defendant had allegedly been throwing items from the homeowner’s shed into his yard. Subsequently, the defendant allegedly fled on foot and stole a Polaris Ranger and drove it to Albany, where he was found and arrested.

On June 11th, Worth County Prosecutor Janet Wake Larison filed charges against Cory Farrell (26) of Grant City alleging Violation of a Protection Order.

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. 

Worth County Land Transfers for May 2024

May 3rd – Book 208, Page 118; TSC-MO LLC to Ralph and Mega Angelo; Warranty Deed; See Record.

May 3rd – Book 208, Page 119; Ralph & Mega Angelo to Southern AgCredit ACA; Deed of Trust; See Record.

May 7th – Book 208, Page 120; Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems to Dakota Hill; Deed of Release; Book 192, Page 165.

May 10th – Book 208, Page 121; Beatty & Cordell Farms Inc to Commodity Credit Corporation; Severance Agreement; See Record.

May 10th – Book 208, Page 122; William & Taylor Wendt to M&J Gray Farms; Warranty Deed; See Record.

May 10th – Book 208, Page 124; M&J Gray Farms to Chambers Bank; Deed of Trust; See Record.

May 13th – Book 208, Page 128; RABO Agrifinance to Signature Land & Cattle; Provisional Deed of Release; Book 201, Page 65.

May 13th – Book 208, Page 129; American State Bank to William & Taylor Wendt; Deed of Release; Book 206, Page 142.

May 13th – Book 208, Page 130; Scott & Suzanne Harris to Michael Harris and Suzanne Harris; Warranty Deed; See Record.

May 13th – Book 208, Page 131; Michael Scott and Suzanne Harris to Kandel Bottiger Wood; Beneficiary Deed; See Record.

May 14th – Book 208, Page 132; Signature Land & Cattle to Jo Wochner Irrevocable Spousal Trust; Warranty Deed; See Record.

May 20th – Book 208, Page 134; Larry Allen Hansen Sr. Revocable Trust to Dan Barnett and Ashlyn Barnett; Trustee’s Deed; See Record.

May 22nd – Book 208, Page 136; Bobbi and Paul Coblentz and Suzanne and Sam Martell to Bobbi and Paul Coblentz; Quit Claim Deed; See Record.

May 28th – Book 208, Page 145; Dakota & Olivia Hill to Jon & Ashleigh Moser; Quit Claim Deed; See Record.

May 29th – Book 208, Page 146; Byland James, Cathy James, Becky & Tyler McElvain; Elaine & Carl Owens; Max James, Steve & Thelma Morris; Sherri James; Keith & Theresa James; Larry & Rachel James to Beverly Burton; Quit Claim Deed; See Record.

May 31st – Book 208, Page 147; Jerry and Valerie Rauch to Stephanie Hardy; Beneficiary Deed; Replace Book 207, Page 13.

May 31st – Book 208, Page 149; Crestwood Apartments to Monticue Properties; Warranty Deed; See Record.

May 31st – Book 208, Page 150; Kristin & Randy Meek to Kevin & Tyanna Meek; Quit Claim Deed; See Record.

May 31st – Book 208, Page 151; Madlyn Meek to Kristin & Randy Meek; Quit Claim Deed; See Record.

May 31st – Book 208, Page 152; Kristin & Randy Meek to The Trevon Trust; Quit Claim Deed; See Record.

Vivian Coleman 1932-2024

Vivian Marie Coleman, age 91, Grant City, Missouri died Sunday, June 9, 2024 at the Worth County Convalescent Center in Grant City.

Vivian was born August 27, 1932 in Parnell, Missouri, the daughter of Pete and Florence (New) Auten.

Vivian attended Sheridan High School with the class of 1950.

In February of 1954, Vivian was united in marriage with Russell Coleman.  They were married for 59 years.

Vivian was a homemaker.  She was involved in the former Irene and Prairie Star Clubs.  Vivian enjoyed getting out and about being a regular participant on the OATS Bus.  She was also a very active member of the Worth County Senior Citizen Center in Grant City. Loving softball, Vivian was the former  scorekeeper for the Worth County Co-ed softball organization.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Russell (2013), siblings Ralph, Duane and Leslie Auten, Vera Hamblin and Virginia Robinson.

Her survivors include daughter Carlotta “Cork” (Harry “Bo”) DeMott, Sheridan, Missouri, grandsons Bradie (Valerie) DeMott, Cory (Amber) DeMott and Derry DeMott, great grandsons Jake Simmons and Jared (Breann) Simmons, great great grandson Walker Wayne Simmons, Sister-in-Laws Donita and Tama Auten, nieces and nephews, each one holding a special place in her heart.  She loved each one dearly.

Vivian’s body has been cremated under the care of the Hann Funeral Home, Grant City.  Vivian’s wishes were to have no formal service or visitation.  A memorial graveside service will be held at the Hopkins Cemetery, Hopkins, Missouri at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to the Worth County Senior Center, 22 West 4th Street, Grant City, Missouri 64456.

Bluejays Avenge Tie With Tigers, Win 11-3

Northeast Nodaway’s girls avenged their only blemish on their record up to that point when they handed Worth County its first loss of the season, beating them 11-3 Thursday. Worth County had been playing excellent softball lately, having beaten Trenton and another big school and losing narrowly to South Harrison, which took third at state last year. They also scratched out a 3-2 win over King City the game before. 

The Bluejays had been going well after playing Worth County to an 8-8 tie, beating Albany 8-0 behind Lindsey Jackson’s no-hitter. Fueled by that game, they extended their shutout streak to three games, blanking Stanberry 4-0 and getting Baylie Busby’s first ever over the fence home run before making a long road trip worthwhile and blanking Maysville 20-0 in three innings.

But it looked like Worth County would continue to have the Bluejays’ number, as they have the last few years after Kambree Briner singled to right to start the game and Audrey Runde walked. Kristen Tracy reached on a throwing error by second baseman Bristol Hicks, scoring Briner and putting Runde on third. Riley Ridge struck out, but Addison Gray beat out an infield hit to score Runde to put the Tigers up 2-0.

At that point, it looked like a long night for the Bluejays; many of their players had been to Milan for a basketball shootout there against two tough Class 2 teams, followed by a long 3-4 hour trip home. But the Bluejays won both games, dismantling Schuyler County behind a big day from Baylie Busby. Knox County caught on and swarmed Busby in the second game, but then the Bluejays got contributions from Skyler Florea, back from a shoulder injury, along with Hayley Yost, Blair Nelson knocking down a 3-pointer, and everyone else. It didn’t matter that they were shorthanded without both Brianna Meyer (dental) and Mylee Wilmes (camp); they won that game as well. Despite being without their two best on the ball defenders, they were still able to pressure the ball and force turnovers to fuel their attack.

The Bluejays struck right back against Worth County when Baylie Busby hit a screamer to right field and this time did not get herself thrown out as she got a triple to start the Bluejay first. Blair Nelson doubled to right and Hayley Yost and Lindsey Jackson walked to load the bases. Makenzie Pride singled in Nelson and Yost to put the Bluejays up 3-2 after one. They looked shaky in the first inning, but then got stronger as the game progressed.

In the second inning, Braelyn Fletchall, who hurt the Bluejays in the first game, hit a screamer, but Bristol Hicks, moved from second base to left field, atoned for her error in the first inning and ran it down. That seemed to give Bluejay pitcher Lindsey Jackson the confidence she needed to settle down, and she started throwing strikes.

The Bluejays added to their lead to start the second when Baylie Busby and Hadley DeFreece walked. Blair Nelson got her second double of the night. Hayley Yost, going up against one of her best friends in Kristen Tracy, hit a screamer, but Braelyn Fletchall, playing at second, snagged it to temporarily derail the Bluejays. But Nelson took third on a wild pitch and scored when Lindsey Jackson grounded out to make it 6-2.

Keira Hardy singled to lead off the Tiger third and Kambree Briner grounded out. Audrey Runde hit it hard towards right field, but Hayley Yost, now at second, made a diving stop to rob Runde of a base hit. Kristen Tracy doubled into the left center field gap to score Hardy, but without Yost’s play, it would have been a whole lot more than one run. Riley Ridge reached when Lindsey Jackson dropped her pop fly to put Tracy on third. But on the ensuing first and third situation, Baylie Busby threw down to second to nail Ridge for the third out and the Tigers only managed one run, cutting the deficit to 6-3.

Northeast went quietly in their half of the third and Addison Gray, a bright spot for the Tigers that night, tripled to left to lead off. But when Worth County stranded her and couldn’t bring her in, that opened the floodgates for the Bluejays in the last two innings.

Hadley DeFreece beat out a bunt hit to start off the Bluejay fourth and then Blair Nelson singled to center. Hayley Yost used her newfound speed to beat out a scratch hit between first and second to load the bases and then Lindsey Jackson singled just past second to score two to make it 8-3.

With DeFreece pitching and shutting down the Tiger bats after giving up Gray’s triple, that gave Northeast a chance to end it in the fifth on the eight run rule. Sadie Hall, a freshman, hit a flare up the middle for a base hit and then Baylie Busby crushed a triple, her second of the night, to score her. Blair Nelson was hit by a pitch and stole second and Hayley Yost forced an error with her newfound speed as Busby crossed the plate to make it 10-3. Lindsey Jackson hit a grounder to short and the Tigers had no play at the plate as Nelson came in to score and close out the win.

Hali Smith Tosses No Hitter Against Putnam County

Hali Smith tossed a no-hitter against Putnam County as the Shamrocks won 17-2 against the Midgets, a major turnaround from recent years when Putnam had North Harrison’s number even when they were down. The Midgets were so shocked by the outcome that they ran their players a lap around the field after the game and after North Harrison’s 9-8 victory in the JV nightcap.

The mound had been dominated by Erica Gerken, who pitched nearly every inning the last three years for the Shamrocks. The big question was who would take over for her since she graduated this year. North Harrison has been breaking in four different arms, including Smith, Lani Briggs, Addison Milligan, and Gracie Young. Young was gone for Wednesday’s game (camp), but Briggs and Milligan both pitched in the nightcap.

Ava Rinehart steps into the catcher’s slot, which she has been playing for a long time in travel ball and junior high. She showed she is ready for varsity level action. Andi Nail and Kayka Wilson return and will split first base and outfield. Nail was one of those kids who kept going even when everything was unraveling around her, turning into a steady anchor at first and catching every pop fly remotely in her area. Kayka’s bat has improved this year.

Carmon Fordyce returns at second base, which she locked down last year. She took away a potential hit from Putnam County in the third, making a shoestring catch to preserve Smith’s no-hitter.

With Rinehart moving behind the plate, Lani Briggs was able to move into the field, where she will play shortstop. Briggs and Fordyce can both back up Rinehart behind the plate when needed. Jaxcynn Hansel, who started as a freshman last year in the outfield, moves from right field to third base to take over the slot vacated by Jaci Davis, who graduated last year. Kira Robertson returns to play center field and Addison Milligan will take over the left field slot. Gracie Young, another freshman, will figure into the mix someplace as well. 

After the Shamrocks worked around an error and stranded a Midget runner at third, Addison Milligan shot a single just past short for her first ever hit at this level. Lani Briggs reached on an error and Addison scored all the way from first. Ava Rinehart singled to left to put Briggs on third and the two pulled off a successful double steal to make it 2-0. Jaxcynn Hansel reached on an error to plate Rinehart to make it 3-0 after one.

With two outs in the second and Putnam playing really shallow, Addison Milligan doubled over everyone’s heads to keep it going. Lani Briggs singled to put runners on first and third and that was all Ava Rinehart needed to crush one over everyone’s heads to the left field wall to make it 6-0.

Putnam County made a bid to get back in the game in the third as Smith walked the bases loaded and two runners came home on wild pitches. But she struck out one batter and Carmon Fordyce’s shoestring catch took away a base hit and kept North Harrison in front 6-2.

In the Shamrock third, Carmon Fordyce reached as the first baseman had her foot off the bag. Jaxcynn Hansel singled and Kira Robertson was hit. A rare miscue happened as Fordyce made a dash to the plate on a passed ball situation and was out, but Hansel and Robertson took second and third and Hali Smith hit a pop fly that dropped into right field as Hansel scored and Robertson took third. Smith stole second. Andi Nail struck out, but Addison Milligan reached on a dropped fly ball as Smith and Robertson scored and Milligan took second. Two wild pitches brought Milligan around to score. Lani Briggs restarted the Shamrocks with a base hit just past short and Ava Rinehart crushed a double over everyone’s head to score Briggs and bringing her within a triple of completing the cycle. Jayliegh Robins was the last Shamrock to hit for the cycle in 2019. Kayka Wilson singled to right to bring Rinehart home. By the time the dust had settled, North Harrison was up 12-2 after three and six runs had crossed the plate.

In the fourth, Putnam County walked the bases full. They nearly got out of the inning, but then a wild pitch scored Jaxcynn Hansel to open the floodgates again. Lani Briggs walked and then Ava Rinehart could not quite complete the cycle, but her double down the left field line scored Kira Robertson and Andi Nail and put Briggs on third. Putnam nearly had Briggs picked off third, but she escaped the rundown and scored as Rinehart took third. Kayka Wilson walked and then Carmon Fordyce reached on a dropped fly ball to make it 17-2, ending the game on the 15 run rule.

North Harrison JV 9, Putnam County 8

The nightcap was much closer; the Shamrocks took a big early lead, but then needed a walkoff to get the win and complete the sweep. 

The first inning was highlighted by Kenzie Milligan’s triple into the left center field gap to plate two runs and Carmon Fordyce’s infield hit as the Shamrocks led 4-0 after one. Lani Briggs scored on a wild pitch in the inning as well.

But after the Shamrocks stranded Briggs at third after she got there with no outs, the Midgets started coming back, using hits and walks to take a 5-4 lead. Two RBI groundouts by Kayka Wilson and Kaydence Lambert put the Shamrocks up 6-5, but a double, four walks, three wild pitches, and a hit batter put Putnam back in front 8-6.

But Hali Smith, who beat the Midgets with her arm in the first game, beat them with her legs in the second as she beat out an infield hit to start the Shamrock fourth. She stole second and took third on a wild pitch. Jaxcynn Hansel doubled over the field fielder’s head to cut it to 8-7. After a long battle with the pitcher, Annabelle Owens had a good hold on a 3-2 pitch and walked. Hansel stole third and then Annabelle stole second. Addison Milligan walked and then Carmon Fordyce’s pop fly to right dropped in for a base hit to score Hansel to tie it at 8-8. Kayka Wilson popped out, but Kaydence Lambert walked to force in a run and win it for the Shamrocks.

Darlene Messner 1941-2024

Darlene (Wilkinson) Messner, 82, Maryville, Missouri passed away peacefully Wednesday, June 5th, 2024 surrounded by her family.  Darlene was born August 2, 1941, in Hatfield, MO to Rex and Lillie (Sweedman) Wilkinson.  She was a graduate of Stanberry High in 1959, she met the love of her life, Burton Messner, and they married on March 1, 1964.  They resided in Stanberry, MO, where they raised 4 children on their family farm, twins Becky & Brenda, Rod, and Marcie.    

Darlene was honest, loved her family dearly and had a strong faith in the Lord.  She was a member of Laura Street Baptist Church.  She enjoyed spending time with children, whether her own kids, the day care kids she watched for over 20 years, or in the church nursery.  She thought of her daycare and nursery kids as extended family.

She is proceeded in death by her parents, in-laws Marvin and Lavenia Messner, Ronnie and Sharon (sister) Graham, Jerry (brother) and Cathy Wilkinson.

She is survived by her husband, Burton; daughters Becky Ross, Brenda (Rick) Davis; son Rod (Marci) Messner and daughter Marcie (Phillip) McIntyre; grandchildren Kacie (Brian) Wolff, Rene (Kolby) Griffith, Korey Ross, Raven Davis (Quentin), Rachel Davis, Dakota (Jessi) Messner, Peyton Messner, Kevin Ross, Mateo Messner, Delaney McIntyre, and Dylan McIntyre; great-grandchildren Penny Griffith, Macie, McKinley, and Grayson Wolff, Koen Messner, Harrison Kolbeck; brother Dave (Connie) Wilkinson, sister-in-law Sandra McGuire and many nieces and nephews. 

Per her wishes Darlene’s body has been cremated under the care of the Hann Funeral Home, Grant City, MO.  Memorial services will be held at 7:00 PM, Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at Laura Street Baptist Church, Maryville, Missouri.  The family will receive friends from 5:30-6:30 PM prior to the service.  Private family inurnment will be held at a later date in High Ridge Cemetery, Stanberry, Missouri. 

In lieu of flowers Memorials may be sent to Three Rivers Hospice, 3901 Beck Road, Suite C, Saint Joseph, Missouri 64506.

LaVerne Spainhower 1923-2024

Mabel LaVerne (Hass) Spainhower, beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 100 on Saturday, June 8, 2024. LaVerne had been surrounded by her family as she was gradually letting go of this life. LaVerne was born on August 24, 1923 in Hatfield, Missouri to Ralph and Theo Hass. Following graduation from Hatfield High School, she received her Associates Degree in Education from Maryville Teacher’s College (now Northwest Missouri State University). 

She married her first love, Mac Spainhower in 1946 and together they had three children, Joe, Sally and Sara. After Mac’s untimely death in 1981, LaVerne continued to work and then traveled with longtime friends. She experienced many road trips all over the United States, including a memorable road trip to Alaska…yes, they drove to Alaska! 

LaVerne found love again at the age of 74 and married Richard Houk, and together they enjoyed traveling, attending sporting events, time in Arizona, and spending time with both of their families. In addition to teaching in a one room schoolhouse, LaVerne also worked as a bank teller and school secretary. Her most important role, however, was Mom and Grammy. She was an active member of Grant City United Methodist Church and after moving to Kansas City, in the Platte Woods United Methodist Church. LaVerne was an invaluable volunteer and served as a bookkeeper, group leader, hospitality leader or whatever else she thought needed to be done. She was also a member of the PEO sisterhood for over 75 years. 

Her unwavering Christian faith guided her throughout her life and served as a beacon of hope to all who knew her. She had a passion for helping people, whether by sharing her delicious food, her life wisdom, her quietly comforting presence, or her warm smile. Known for her tireless energy and joyful spirit, LaVerne was an avid gardener, golfer, bridge player and a devoted sports fan, particularly of the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs. She welcomed the 2015 World Series Champions Kansas City Royals back to Kauffman Stadium, all at the sprightly age of 92. A local TV station even interviewed her where she expressed her favoritism for player Salvador Perez! As a mother, Grammy and great grandmother, LaVerne was the heart and soul of her devoted family. She loved spending time with them and creating memories that will be cherished forever. Her wisdom, grace and unconditional love will continue to be her legacy for years to come. 

The family would like to extend a big Thank You to the extraordinary staffs and caregivers of Wexford Place Senior Living Community, Interim Home Health, and Ascend Hospice in caring for our mom, they are living angels. 

LaVerne was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, Mac Spainhower and Richard Houk, and four siblings. She is survived by her children, Joe, of Milwaukie, OR, Sally, of Davenport, IA and Sara (Tom) of Kansas City, MO, 5 grandchildren and 10 (soon to be 11) great-grandchildren. 

She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. A visitation for friends and family will be held at Prugh-Dunfee Funeral Home in Grant City, MO on Thursday, June 13, 2024 from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. followed by burial at the Grant City Cemetery.  A Celebration of Life will take place at Wexford Senior Living Community at 6500 N. Cosby Ave., Kansas City, MO on Saturday, July 6, 2024 from 1-3 p.m. Instead of plants or flowers, the family suggests donations to be made to Mission Possible Thrift Store & Food Pantry in Grant City, MO or to the Grant City United Methodist Church.

Editorial -- Facebook Hates Rural America

Unfortunately, we won't be on Facebook as much as we used to be. Over the last several months, Facebook has been engaging in a systematic attack on our paper, taking down our posts for no reason that we can think of. This, after they let us post at will for 15 years on this platform. This is not just an attack on us; this is an attack on all of you as well as our whole way of life. 

It comes down to one of three possible explanations: 1. The moderators are from out of the country just like the owners of Alpha Media, who recently dumped Stuart Johnson, are from out of the area and don't understand Rural America or our way of life. 2. Their algorithm is written in a way to allow the likes of Bill Gates or Elon Musk or some other billionaire to make a living while keeping the rest of us down. When we grow to a certain point, their spam filter kicks in. 3. They hate Rural America and our way of life and don't want us to succeed in any way b/c they would rather see us working like slaves for just over broke instead of making a living.

So we are looking for a new home for our blog so we can promote our paper to the world. X (formerly Twitter) is not an option. Since Elon Musk bought it out, the quality has become worse and worse. Now, it is down (at least for us) for hours at a time, only up occasionally. So while we may post there occasionally, it is not a solution. We have a Plan C that we will roll out soon. It is not ideal, there are not a lot of people from around here on it, but it might be the best solution we have.

But the irony of it is that while Facebook is attacking us, and all of you by extension, they are letting the real scammers get away. Case in point:

–Catholic Answers is one of the country’s largest Catholic apologetics shows in the country. We encountered an imposter site, “Catholic Answers Live,” which posts disparaging content in its private group against the Catholic faith. Not only that, they openly say that Eastern Orthodox people, who are one of the three main branches of Christianity, are not welcome. We have friends and subscribers who are strong Protestants and who are strong Catholics. But dividing the body of Christ is just wrong, let alone set up an imposter site to do bait and switch content. Naturally, we reported it as spreading hate. Half an hour later, Facebook denied our claim. Even though imposter sites are a direct violation of Facebook’s Terms of Service.

–Another case in point: There was a fake advertising site claiming Wal-Mart was giving away hundreds of free electronics. We reported it. Facebook refused to take it down. Even though this is a direct violation of Facebook’s Terms of Service against spreading false information. We see these fake giveaway sites on Facebook all the time. There has been a rash of thefts at the Maryville Wal-Mart this year, judging by the court pages. We have a theory that at least part of it is related to Facebook allowing scammers on its site to claim that Wal-Mart and other retail giants are giving away stuff for free. And then the politicians wonder why there is so much crime in the country.

Third case in point: We have gotten numerous friend requests from porn accounts. We report and block those accounts, which contain nudity, sexual services, and explicit videos. We recommend that you do as well if you choose to continue using Facebook. After all, how do we know that those accounts are not underage? In Missouri, belief that someone is over the age of consent is not a defense if the cops arrest you. 

Fourth case in point: A few weeks ago, we had a scammer post on our Sheridan Express profile image, which is a public domain photo of General Philip Sheridan, after whom our town is named. They were making dire threats against us alleging copyright violations and giving us a number to call. They even had a fake checkmark purporting to show they were an admit. Even though that poster was impersonating Facebook, Facebook refused to do anything about that scammer.

Since Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook, has decided that he hates Rural America so much, we have one question to ask him. If he and his company succeed in destroying our way of life by keeping us down, where is he going to find the food that he eats every day? Even the billions of dollars that he and Facebook have is not going to buy the food that he eats if there is no longer anyone around to make it. 

Editorials are the view of the Editor and Publisher. They do not necessarily reflect the views of the Sheridan Express Cooperative board of directors or its membership.

Obituary -- Robert Moore 1949-2024

 

Robert Dean Moore, age 74, died Thursday, June 6, 2024 at the University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas.

Robert was born September 22, 1949 in St. Joseph, Missouri.  He was the son of Elijah and Laura L. (Dehart) Moore.

Before moving to Grant City, Missouri, Robert had lived in Creston, Iowa.

Robert was married to Debra Jo (Stinnett).  Debbie preceded him in death on December 4, 2017.

Robert was a handyman and had worked many various jobs in the communities that he lived in.

Others who preceded him n death were his parents, two sisters, half-sisters Loretta Burton, Pauline Hartlett, and twins Jeraldine and Jerod Mink, and an infant brother.

His survivors include sister Kathy Percifield, Grant City, his close friend Kimberly Riggs, Grant City, children Michelle Moore, Raymond Moore, April and Richard Quinn, Tina and Tammy Moore and Jeff Moore.

Per his wishes Robert has been cremated under the care of the Hann Funeral Home, Grant City.  There will be no services held at this time.  A gathering to celebrate his life will be held at a later date.  Inurnment will be in the Kirk Cemetery, Allendale, Missouri.

Ravenwood Sends Letter of Violation

The City of Ravenwood sent a letter of violation to a person who had built a fence without a permit. Like Grant City, Ravenwood requires residents adding new structures or fences on their properties and/or put in a water supply or sewer system to get a building permit at City Hall. The ordinance, passed in March 1999, reads as follows:

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF ALDERMEN FOR THE CITY OF RAVENWOOD, MISSOURI, AS FOLLOWS: TO CONTROL BUILDING AND WATER SUPPLY OR SEWER SYSTEMS WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS.

Section 1: A person, group of persons, company, or organization desiring to build a new structure or add to an existing structure or to put in a water supply and/or a sewer system within the city limits of the City of Ravenwood, Missouri, shall FIRST file with the City Clerk an application for a building permit on a form provided by the City Clerk and shall therewith pay an application fee of $10 to the City Clerk at the time of the filing of said application.

Section 2: The City Clerk shall forward the Application for a Building Permit to the Board of Aldermen and Mayor who shall review same at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Aldermen. If the Application is approved by a majority of the Board, then a building permit shall be issued to the applicant allowing for the building of a new structure or adding to an existing structure or the putting in of a water supply and/or sewer system.

Section 3: The granting of a building permit in no way guarantees that any of the work done is of a workmanlike manner, that any person performing any work is skilled, licensed, or bonded, or that it is being built on the applicant’s property. These requirements are the sole responsibility of the applicant, his agents, the property owners, or the workmen involved, without any liability on behalf of the City of Ravenwood.

Section 4: If a building permit is not granted by the Board of Aldermen and the applicant, or someone acting through his authority or on his behalf shall build the structure or add to an existing structure or put in a water supply and/or a sewer system, the applicant, his agents, and assigns shall all be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $500 or a jail sentence of 90 days or both said fine and jail sentence. Each day shall constitute a separate violation. The structure may also be ordered to be removed, razed, or altered to comply with this Ordinance.

Section 5: If a building permit is not granted by the Board of Aldermen, the applicant shall have a right to appeal the administrative decision of the Board to the Circuit Court of Nodaway County, Missouri, for judicial review under the Missouri State Statutes regarding same. Failure of any person to file an appeal shall constitute waiver of said right.

Section 6: This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage and adoption.

Bill Stephenson came to request that a “T” be put in his ditch, which he said would help with runoff. Mayor Brian Sobotka and council members said that while the city has three other major projects ahead of it, they were receptive to the request. In the meantime, the city will dig the ditch a little deeper to help with drainage during storms.

Work on the Playground was discussed. The project got an award from FCS Financial of $5,000, not $10,000 as was originally thought, meaning that more fundraising is needed.

Discussion was had on lining up volunteer labor to finish the project. The new shelter house will be done at a later date. 

Paint work needs done on the north side of City Hall and on the water plant. 

The Council is planning to pass a new policy on water from the Fire Department for recreational purposes. In the past, the Fire Department had filled up peoples’ pools and then paid an estimated bill to the city. The new proposed policy would require people who want recreational water to get it through the city. Sobotka and city council members stated that while Ravenwood has some of the cheapest water in the area, they were not giving it away. 

The following are water rates for towns in the area for minimum monthly usage: Barnard – $136.50, Burlington Junction $128, Clearmont – $122.50, Conception Junction – $55.05, Hopkins – $72.31, Ravenwood – $18.65, Skidmore – $84, Albany–  $38.61, King City – $77.70, Stanberry – $64.69, Maryville – $39.20. Ravenwood has the lowest water rates in the area.

The following are sewer rates for towns in the area. Barnard – $79, Burlington Junction – $34, Clearmont – $65, Conception Junction – $27.53, Hopkins – $61.16, Ravenwood – $35, Skidmore – $60, Albany – $63.50, King City – $35.11, Stanberry – $58.20, Maryville – $121.44. Ravenwood has one of the lowest sewer rates in the area.