Opinion -- Hawley, Durbin Launch Child Sex Abuse Investigation Into Roblox

by Senator Josh Hawley's Office

U.S. Senators Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) sent a letter to Roblox Founder, President, CEO, and Chair of the Board of Directors David Baszucki, informing him that the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism opened an investigation into Roblox. In the letter, Senator Hawley and Senator Durbin called attention to explicit content present on the platform, as well as its connection to real world child abuse. This investigation is only the latest in the series of actions Senator Hawley and Senator Durbin have taken to protect children online, including their STOP CSAM Act passing out of committee unanimously.

They began, "We write to inform you that the Senate Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism has opened an investigation into child safety on the Roblox gaming platform."

They continued, "You trumpet Roblox as a safe digital playground for children as young as five. But the public record raises serious questions about this promise of safety. Over the past decade, police have arrested numerous individuals for committing serious acts of violence and harm against children they met via Roblox, including grooming, sexual abuse, kidnapping, rape, and even murder. Roblox is being used to trade child sexual abuse material, participate in sexually explicit (and often violent) virtual 'experiences' with children, bribe and extort children into producing explicit content, and lure children into in-person meetings. It is heartbreaking. In 2025, Roblox reported 65,381 instances of suspected child sexual exploitation to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children—more than double what it reported in 2024."

"Roblox appears to prioritize revenue and engagement metrics over the safety and well-being of our children, and the alleged criminal activity on Roblox warrants congressional scrutiny. Accordingly, be advised that Roblox is hereby directed to preserve all records, in any format and wherever located, in connection with child safety, child sexual or physical abuse, child bullying, or child financial exploitation ... Let us be clear: children on your platform are hurting. Congress will not look the other way. We await your prompt and complete response," they concluded.

Read the full letter below.

August 12, 2026

David Baszucki

Founder, President, CEO, and Chair of the Board of Directors

Roblox Corp.

Mr. Baszucki:

We write to inform you that the Senate Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism has opened an investigation into child safety on the Roblox gaming platform.

You trumpet Roblox as a safe digital playground for children as young as five. But the public record raises serious questions about this promise of safety. Over the past decade, police have arrested numerous individuals for committing serious acts of violence and harm against children they met via Roblox, including grooming, sexual abuse, kidnapping, rape, and even murder. Roblox is being used to trade child sexual abuse material, participate in sexually explicit (and often violent) virtual “experiences” with children, bribe and extort children into producing explicit content, and lure children into in-person meetings. It is heartbreaking. In 2025, Roblox reported 65,381 instances of suspected child sexual exploitation to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children—more than double what it reported in 2024.

Roblox appears to prioritize revenue and engagement metrics over the safety and well-being of our children, and the alleged criminal activity on Roblox warrants congressional scrutiny. Accordingly, be advised that Roblox is hereby directed to preserve all records, in any format and wherever located, in connection with child safety, child sexual or physical abuse, child bullying, or child financial exploitation. We also attach an annex containing document requests and interrogatories. Please produce all documents and information specified in the annex no later than August 31, 2026.

Let us be clear: children on your platform are hurting. Congress will not look the other way. We await your prompt and complete response.

Sincerely,

Josh Hawley 

Chairman

Committee on the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism 

Richard J. Durbin

Ranking Member

Committee on the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism

Lois Hackett 1937-2026

Lois Darlene (Dunn) Hackett, age 88 of Maryville, Missouri, formerly of Hopkins, Missouri passed away Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at Village Care Health Center with her family by her side.

 Lois was born October 26, 1937 in Conception Jct., Missouri to Clarence Herbert Dunn and Vivian Marie (Combs) Dunn. 

Lois was a graduate of Horace Mann High School in Maryville.

On November 14, 1959 she married Lloyd Wilbur Hackett.  Lloyd preceded her death in May of 2001. Also preceding her in death were her brother Larry Dunn Sr, sisters Charlotte Combs and Addie Mae Combs.

Three girls were born to this union. Vanessa (Rex) Peter, Skidmore, Missouri, children Bo & Kayl (Jessie) Hansen, and Will Peter, Valerie (Rick) Hartman, Augusta, Kansas, children Jessica and Jared Hartman Vivian (Adam) Riley, Hopkins, Missouri, children Cameron Morrison, Ryan (Morgan) & Lacy Riley, three great grandchildren Preston, Mya, and Lucas Hansen.  Additional members of Lois’s family are her brothers Bob Dunn, Maryville Missouri , James Dunn, Mound City Missouri, Nieces and Nephews.

Lois and Lloyd moved to Spokane, Washington in June of 1961.  All their children were born while they were in Washington, they moved back to Missouri in 1981. 

Lois was a homemaker and all it entailed.  She and Lloyd liked working in the garden and taking care of flowers. With the grateful help of Lloyd, Lois was always canning items from their large garden. Some of her favorite hobbies were crocheting, macroing, and collecting cookbooks. 

In Lois’s later years she took up scrapbooking with her daughters. It was lot’s of fun for a few years, later Lois let it pass on to her daughters.  Lois knew that the love they had enjoyed scrapbooking, the girls would keep scrapbooking their hearts out. 

Lois enjoyed listening to music, some of her favorite songs were Amazing Grace, One Day at a Time, and Seven Spanish Angels. Lois also enjoyed spending all the time she could with her grand and great grandchildren.  

Lois will be missed by her family and all who knew her whether you were her friend or a neighbor.

andrewshannfuneralhome.com

36 Suicide Prevention Run/Walk Shirts Ordered

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, call 988. The hotline is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, 7 days a week. 

Jeremy Baker of the Worth County Suicide Prevention Coalition reported at Wednesday’s regular meeting that he received orders for 36 shirts for the upcoming Suicide Prevention Run/Walk, which will be held Saturday, September 12th with registration starting at 7 am in the school parking lot and the run starting at 7:30 am. Twelve people attended Wednesday’s meeting; it was the most who had attended the meeting since the kickoff meeting several months ago. 

Volunteers are sought for the upcoming run/walk, including for setup, monitoring traffic and runners, helping to shut down roads, and cleanup. Contact Jeremy Baker at (660) 254-5311 if interested.

The Coalition received a $2,500 grant a few months ago to train three people who will train up to 24 others to recognize and act on warning signs of suicide. That will mean that there will be at least 75 people who will be trained to recognize such signs when the training is done. One person who will take the training, Sheena Fletchall, attended the meeting and showed a care package she is putting together for people who are struggling with mental health issues, something she does. She takes donations of items that people no longer need that could be included in such care packages. The Coalition voted to approve the expense to train Ms. Fletchall. She said she had gotten a lot of interest in Nodaway County about training people in schools about suicide awareness.

Completing the training gives one a three-year certification to train others in suicide awareness. It is renewable for $100 at the end of the three-year period. 

Rachel Brown talked about how the Harrison County coalition puts together care packages for people and gives out gun locks.

Grace Englehart of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reported that there are many free videos on suicide prevention in Missouri. She said she would send resources to the coalition. 

Groundwork was laid for the Suicide Prevention event, including the run/walk as well as a breakfast to be held afterwards. It will tentatively include information about the coalition, door prizes, and a suicide prevention training. 

Plans were made for possible activities after the event is over, including possibly sending cards to people around the county. Josh Kollitz said he had a lot of cards on hand. Mr. Kollitz invited the coalition to the Worth County Fall Carnival, which is being held the week after, on September 19th. 

Jeremy Baker reported that he had distributed 1,300 gun locks in the area. He has 200 left. 

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 10th at 5:00 pm at the Worth County Community Church (formerly the United Methodist Church). 

Volunteers Sought for Nodaway County Zoning Planning Committee

Volunteers are being sought for a Zoning Planning Committee for Nodaway County, which is looking into zoning as part of its data center moratorium. The committee would be advisory in nature regarding zoning for the county. "We need someone who doesn't have a dog in the fight who can help us with research," said Presiding Commissioner Bill Walker. Interested parties can contact the Nodaway County Commission at nodawaycom@gmail.com.

Along with the proposed data center south of Maryville, there was discussion about the construction in that area. Susie Strauch said that especially with the unmowed side and one lane of traffic at Route 71 and 340th Road, "It's a disaster waiting to happen." "Trucks now have to cut across two lanes of traffic," added Commissioner Scott Walk. There is a similar situation with the interchange between Route 71 south and I-29 south. Motorists have to enter from the left side of the road and cut across two lanes of traffic that is doing 75 mph to get to the right side of the road. While the DOT has lengthened the entry lane, it is still a hazard.

Jeff From said that he went through the representations Scale Microgrids made on the proposed project and the representations made in the permit application for the power generator portion of the project with the Missouri DNR and found 22 discrepancies. "What the developer is saying and what is on the permit application is two different things," said Mr. From. 

Presiding Commissioner Bill Walker, in response to another question, said the commission would seek to talk to the attorney that day about zoning. "This is a large county and we don't need to be covered in data centers," said Rhonda Beatty.

Commissioner Scott Walk, who is on the state board of the Missouri Association of Counties and who was absent Tuesday, August 11th to attend a board meeting, said that data centers were a main topic of conversation both at the state level and at the national level. He invited State Representative Jeff Farnan to come to a commission meeting to hear out constituents. That led Scott Wilson to say, "You don't need Jeff Farnan or [State Senator] Rusty Black's permission to move forward with this. This is your project." Mr. Walk said that the commissioners read everything that people send them, including Mr. From's latest correspondence. 

Holly Caviness asked about monitoring emissions from the facility. Commissioner Walk said that the DNR monitors emissions from such facilities on a daily basis and that they keep records. All documents by public bodies are subject to document requests under the Missouri Sunshine Law. 

Commissioner Walk explained the zoning process and how it works. Zoning would only cover the unincorporated areas of the county. It would not cover, say, Maryville or Ravenwood, which have their own city councils and enforcement. Zoning would cover land use permits such as CAFO's and data centers.

Area Courthouse, Police, and Crime Reports for August 12th, 2026

On August 4th, Blake Crawford (32) of West Des Moines (IA) pleaded guilty in Daviess County Associate Circuit Court to a charge of Violation of Protection Order. He was sentenced to 60 days in jail by Judge Micha Lea Dixon with credit for time served. 

On August 4th, Justin Wink (45) of Martinsville pleaded guilty in Nodaway County Associate Circuit Court to charges of DWI and Defective Bumper. He was placed on two years probation by Judge Robert Rice and fined $500 plus costs. 

On August 4th, Marcus Hostetler (21) of Jamesport pleaded guilty in Daviess County Associate Circuit Court to DWI and Minor in Possession of Marijuana. He was placed on two years probation by Judge Micha Lea Dixon. Defendant must perform 45 hours of community service.

On August 4th, Northwest Mo Info reported that a Piper PA-24 Comanche aircraft crashed in a field north of Bethany, killing William Anderson (73). 

On August 4th, Aaron Farrell (24) of Maryville pleaded guilty in Daviess County Associate Circuit Court to a charge of DWI. He was placed on two years probation by Judge Micha Lea Dixon. Defendant must perform 30 hours of community service. 

On August 4th, Lane Dack (22) of Ravenwood pleaded guilty in Daviess County Associate Circuit Court to a charge of DWI (Prior). He was sentenced to 10 days in jail by Judge Micha Lea Dixon. 

On August 5th, the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that a 14 year old juvenile and a 10 year old juvenile were operating a UTV in Albany when it flipped over. The 10 year old was injured. 

On August 5th, Jacob Cameron (28) of Bethany pleaded guilty in Harrison County Associate Circuit Court to a charge of Property Damage. He was placed on two years probation by Judge Jay Hemenway. Defendant must remain an active participant in alcohol education program. 

On August 5th, Cody Burton (21) of Stanberry pleaded guilty in Gentry County Associate Circuit Court to a charge of Assault. He was placed on two years probation by Judge Rebecca McGinley. Defendant may have no contact with the victims or be within 500 feet of them or their residences. Defendant must complete mental health evaluation and follow recommendations. Defendant must perform 20 hours community service and serve one day in jail with credit for time served. 

On August 5th, Judge Rebecca McGinley revoked the probation of Larry Atkison (43) of Jamesport and sentenced him to 10 days in jail following a violation report and hearing. The defendant had been on probation for DWI.

On August 5th, Chayna Enloe (39) of Cameron pleaded guilty in Daviess County Circuit Court to a charge of Possession of Controlled Substance at Jail (Felony). She was sentenced to four years in the Missouri Department of Corrections by Judge Daren Adkins, consecutive to all other sentences. 

On August 6th, Schuyler Gallegos (29) of Stanberry pleaded guilty in Gentry County Circuit Court to a charge of Driving While Revoked. He was placed on two years probation by Judge Corey Herron. Defendant must serve eight days shock time in jail and successfully complete a financial literacy course. 

On August 6th, Eric Sorensen (31) of Albany pleaded guilty in Gentry County Circuit Court to a charge of Domestic Assault. He was placed on two years probation by Judge Corey Herron. Defendant must serve 20 days shock time, complete anger management, and have no contact with the victim. 

On August 6th, Heather Stonebarger (56) of King City pleaded guilty in Gentry County Circuit Court to a charge of Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony). She was placed on five years probation by Judge Corey Herron. Defendant must serve 15 days shock time in jail and successfully complete drug treatment program. 

On August 6th, Jace Brownell (21) of Maryville pleaded guilty in Gentry County Circuit Court to charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Speeding. He was placed on one year probation and fined $80.50 plus costs by Judge Corey Herron. Defendant must serve four days shock time in jail. 

On August 6th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Jared Rockhold (27) of Stanberry alleging Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony), Speeding (68 mph), and No Plates. 

On August 7th, Sheridan, Parnell, and Ravenwood fire units responded to a call in Parnell. 

On August 7th, Daviess County Prosecutor Andrea Beth Gibson filed charges against Paige Dunlap (49) of Pattonsburg alleging DWI, Resisting Arrest, Failure to Obey Traffic Control Device, and Failure to Signal.

Charges listed are merely allegations. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty it is to determine guilt or innocence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

North Nodaway Faculty and Staff List for 2026-27

Administration – Chris Turpin (Superintendent), Cody Jenkins (MS/HS Principal), Heather Townsend (Elementary Principal)

High School Staff – Catherine Auffert (MS/HS Special Ed), Cody Bix (Science), Tina Coffelt (Business), Reid Hart (History), Meghan Hersh (MS/HS English Language Arts), Emily Higgins (Paraprofessional), Logan Jackson (6th Grade), Haley Null (Paraprofessional), Troy Nally (Ag), Chase Sims (PE), McKenna Stephens (Art), Kristi Stricker (MS/HS Secretary), Christina Turpin (MS/HS Math), Victor West (STEM/History), Tiffany Whipple (Executive Secretary).

Elementary Staff – Lindsay Alexander (Elementary Secretary), Karissa Oberhauser (1st Grade), Andrew Hunsicker (5th Grade), Mattie Rhodes (3rd Grade), Stephanie DeLeon (Paraprofessional), Kasey Drummond (Paraprofessional), Kyle Fitzgerald (Music), Sami Jackson (Elementary Title I), Lexi Harger (2nd Grade), Cindy Martin (Librarian), Brooke McMahon (4th Grade), Cameron Morrison (Counselor), Linda Russell (Nurse), Audrey Boulting (Special Ed), Hailey Wilmes (Preschool), Lindsay Eckhert (Kindergarten).

Bus Drivers – Dustin Stringer, Ron Thompson, Angie Titus, Ron Scroggie.

Custodians – Jerald Everhart, Teresa Thompson, Bo Hansen.

Cooks – Christi Fountain, Corey Everhart, Chariza Gladman.

District Tech – Nicki Herndon.

Community Calendar for August 12th, 2026

Community Calendar items are free of charge. To submit, email us at express@grm.net. All events are subject to change or last-minute cancelation. 

REPEATING EVENTS

Mondays (except holidays) – Worth County Commissioners meet at 9 am.

Fridays – Bedford Jam, United Christian Presbyterian Church, 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm. Snacks and drinks available. Walk-ons are welcome. For information, call (712) 523-2282.

Fridays– Community Market, Memorial Park Shelter, Bethany. Fridays 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. 

Saturdays – Stanberry Community Farmers Market, 8 am to noon. Crafts, donuts, and more. Located six miles north of Stanberry on Highway B to AF. 4371 Highway AF. 

Every Second Wednesday – Worth County Suicide Prevention Coalition, 5:00 pm, Worth County Community Church. 

REGULAR ANNOUNCEMENTS 

August 12th – Car Show, Oak Pointe, 817 South Country Club Road, Maryville, 6:00 pm. 

August 13th -- Hopkins Food Pantry, 3 pm to 5 pm, Hopkins Christian Church Parsonage.

August 13th – All Sports Parent Meeting at Worth County, 5:30 pm. 

August 14th – Pot Luck, Worth County Senior Center, 12 noon. Free will donation. 

August 14th – Gentry Opry. Doors open 5:00 pm. Concert at 7:30 pm. Special guest John Marriott. 

August 14th to 15th – 34th annual Allendale Rodeo, 7:00 each night.

August 14th -- The Hopkins Guys will be live in concert Friday, August 14th at the Roxy at 7:00 pm. Members will be Phil Forney, Jerry Forney, Robbie Forney, Ricky Cross, Rick Titus, Dennis White, and J.R. Gladman. Proceeds will be used to pay for the restoration of the neon sign.

August 15th – Maryville Garden Club Fall Plant & Bake Sale, 7 am to 11 am, Nodaway County Senior Center. 

August 15th – Northeast Nodaway FFA Mystery Challenge Night with Mrs. Sobotka, 6:00 pm. 

August 16th -- Tri-C Memorial Post 464 Pancake Breakfast, 7 am to 11 am, Conception Junction. Proceeds to Cameron Veterans Home.

August 17th – Junior High fall sports practices may begin. 

August 17th – In Person Registration at North Nodaway, 9:00 am.

August 17th – Worth County Hazardous Mitigation Plan meeting, 5:30 pm, Sheridan Community Building. 

August 19th – Culpepper & Merriweather Circus, King City. Shows at 5:00 pm and 7:30 pm. 

August 19th – North Harrison School Board Meeting, 5:30 pm. This will include the tax rate hearing.

August 19th – North Nodaway Tax Rate Hearing, 5:50 pm. Regular School Board Meeting 6:00 pm. 

August 19th – Worth County School Board Meeting, 6:00 pm. This will include the tax rate hearing. 

August 20th – North Nodaway District Wide Open House, 4:00 pm.

August 20th – Back to School Supper at NEN, hosted by the FFA, 5:00 pm. Mandatory incoming 6th grade and new 7th to 12th grade meeting, 5:00 pm. Open House 5:30 pm. School Board Meeting 7:00 pm. 

August 21st – Tiger Varsity Football Jamboree at Tarkio, 7:00 pm. 

August 22nd – Co-ed slow pitch softball tournament, 8:00 am, McFall City Park. 

August 22nd – Worth County Democratic Rally, 11 am to 4 pm, Old 169 Club. 

August 22nd – Maryville Elks Lodge Membership Drive, 7 pm to 10 pm, North Vine Street between 2nd and 3rd Street. Bounce houses, Fire Department activities, Bingo, live music, street dance. 

August 23rd -- Ravenwood CBC Breakfast, 8:00 am to 12 noon. The Boys Basketball Team will be helping. 

August 23rd -- A cake party will double as a fundraiser for the Roxy Theater in Hopkins. The party will be held Sunday, August 23rd at the North Nodaway Gym with doors opening at 2 pm. Cost is $20 per person with preregistration or $25 at the door. All proceeds will go to the Roxy. To enter or for more information, contact Deena Poynter (660) 541-1336, Kary Owens (660) 562-0460, or Judy Crane (660) 254-2427.

August 24th – First day of School at North Nodaway and Worth County. Early Dismissal. 

August 24th – Annual meeting of GRM Networks, 10 am, GRM corporate office, Princeton. 

August 24th – Elementary Open House, North Harrison, 5:00 pm. All-sports parent meeting at 6:30 pm. Sixth grade orientation at 7:00 pm. 

August 24th – Elementary Open House at Gilman City, 5:30 pm. 

August 24th – Sheridan City Council Tax Rate Hearing, 5:30 pm, Sheridan Community Building. 

August 25th – First day of School at NEN. 

August 25th – Second Harvest Food Pantry, 10:00 am, Eagleville City Hall. Free and open to the public regardless of income. 

August 25th – North Harrison Softball Jamboree, 5:30 pm. 

August 26th – First day of School at Gilman City. Early dismissal. 

August 27th -- Hopkins Food Pantry, 3 pm to 5 pm, Hopkins Christian Church Parsonage.

August 27th – Full Moon/Partial Lunar Eclipse, 9:00 pm, Crowder State Park, Trenton. 

August 29th – Stampede the Ville. 

August 29th – North Nodaway Class of 2030 will sponsor a 5K Run/Walk during the Hopkins Picnic. Registration will start at 7:00 am and the Run/Walk will start at 7:30 am at the intersection of 148 and JJ. 

August 29th – The Grant City Fire Department will be holding a night golf tournament with tee time at 4:30 pm. The first nine holes will be played during daylight, and the other nine will be played at night. Cost is $60 per team. Meal will be provided by the Grant City Christian Church ladies. All proceeds will go to the Grant City Fire Department. 

August 30th – Sheridan Express Cooperative Board Meeting, 5:00 pm, Sheridan Villa Laundry Room. 

September 3rd to 7th – Northwest Missouri State Fair, Bethany. 

September 4th – No School at North Harrison. Northwest Missouri State Fair. Early dismissal at Gilman City. 

September 5th – “Exploring the Dark” Hike, Crowder State Park, Trenton, 9 pm to 10 pm. Free and open to the public. Guided tour of the park. Bring water and closed-toe shoes. 

September 6th – American Legion Breakfast, 8 am, Parnell Legion Hall. 

September 7th – No school or mail delivery. Labor Day. 

September 8th – Middle School/High School Grandparents Day at North Nodaway High School, 11 am. 

September 8th – Blockton City Council Meeting, 7:00 pm. 

September 9th – Tiger Golf will be hosting a home meet with Albany, Stanberry, and North Harrison at 4:00 pm. 

September 10th -- Hopkins Food Pantry, 3 pm to 5 pm, Hopkins Christian Church Parsonage.

September 11th – Elementary Grandparents Day at Pickering, 11 am. 

September 12th – North Harrison Junior High Softball Tournament. 

September 12th – Worth County Suicide Prevention Coalition 5K Run/2K walk. Registration 7 am; run starts at 7:30 am and lasts until 12 noon. Free resources will be available from the VA, and a VA specialist will be on site. Cost $20. To RSVP, contact Jeremy Baker (660) 254-5311. Shirts are available; to order, contact Jeremy Baker by August 12th. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please contact the Suicide Crisis Hotline at 988. 

September 16th – North Harrison Elementary Title Night, 5:00 pm. 

September 16th – Worth County School Board Meeting, 6:00 pm.

September 16th – North Nodaway School Board Meeting, 6:00 pm. 

September 17th – Shamrock Softball (JH/V/JV) vs. North Andrew, 4:30 pm. Senior Night. 

September 17th – NEN School Board Meeting, 7:00 pm. 

September 18th to 19th – Turkey Run Flea Market and Swap Meet. 12 noon to 6 pm September 18th; 8 am to 6 pm September 19th. Anything tradable welcome from homemade goods, antiques, tools, toys, clothes, livestock, vehicles, auto parts, crafts, food vendors, and more. Space: $15. Electric Hookups: $25. Camper: $45. After September 7th, add $5. If interested, call Adam Emery (660) 541-2984 or Sarah Emery (660) 853-0141. 

September 19th – Worth County Fall Carnival, Courthouse Square, Grant City. 

September 19th – Dusty Cowgirl 5th Anniversary Party, Grant City Square, 12 noon. 

September 20th -- Tri-C Memorial Post 464 Pancake Breakfast, 7 am to 11 am, Conception Junction. Proceeds to Sons of the American Legion Post 464.

September 20th – 3rd Annual Cody Lee Stiens Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser, Nodaway County Senior Center, 8 am to 1 pm. Raffle and Silent Auction. Adults $15, children four and under free.

September 21st – No school at North Nodaway. Professional development. 

September 24th -- Hopkins Food Pantry, 3 pm to 5 pm, Hopkins Christian Church Parsonage.

September 26th – North Harrison Softball Round Robin. 

September 27th – Ravenwood Community Breakfast, 8 am to 12 noon. The Northeast Nodaway cheerleaders will be helping serve. 

September 28th – No school at NEN. Teacher in-service. 

September 29th – Kidsight Vision Screening at NEN, 9 am to 11 am. For PK through 1st grade. 

September 30th – North Nodaway National Honor Society Inductions, 6:00 pm. 

October 3rd – Great Northwest Winefest, 1805 Nebraska Street, Mound City (Swimming Pool), 11:30 am. Proceeds will go to raise funds for Northwest Missouri Enterprise Facilitation. 

October 3rd – Big Brothers/Big Sisters Glow Walk/Run, 6:00 pm. The run will start at Mosaic in Maryville, follow the Safe Routes to School trail, through the Crestview Addition on South Munn, and return on the same route back to the hospital. 

October 4th – Legion Breakfast, Parnell Legion Hall, 8:00 am. 

October 10th – Maryville Fall into Fun, 12 noon to 6 pm. Market vendors, music, kids activities, and more. 

October 13th – Hopkins Historical Society Fall Meeting, 7:00 pm. 

October 18th -- Tri-C Memorial Post 464 Pancake Breakfast, 7 am to 11 am, Conception Junction. Proceeds to Post 464 membership.

October 23rd – Last day to file as a write-in candidate for the November 3rd election, 5:00 pm. 

November 3rd – General election for Missouri. Polls open at 6 am and close at 7 pm. 

November 15th -- Tri-C Memorial Post 464 Pancake Breakfast, 7 am to 11 am, Conception Junction. Proceeds to Ladies Auxiliary Unit 464. 

May 29th – North Nodaway Alumni Reunion, North Nodaway School, 5:30 pm. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Data Center Opponents See Threat to Way of Life, Rural Character

Irene Alexander told the Nodaway County Commission at their regular meeting Tuesday that the data centers being proposed for the county were a threat to their way of life which would alter the climate, quality of life, and water supply. She talked about how a recent drought in Puerto Rico led to water rationing where people would have water for 48 hours and would not have it for 48 hours. “The National Guard was delivering water to people,” she said. 

She said that the weather has already changed from when she was young, and that it was much hotter and dryer. In Colorado, Ms. Alexander noted, the Colorado River was down to 20% of its flow and the federal government was trying to negotiate compromises for all the affected water users. And yet, she said, data centers were proliferating in Arizona and California, downstream on the Colorado River. She said there were 120 operational in Arizona and 35-40 more planned, while in California, there were 300. In Missouri, there are now 54 operational or planned.

Rhonda Beatty said she had talked with a crop adjuster who was knowledgeable about weather patterns. She was told that these facilities create heat domes, and when they get high enough, they get into the jet stream and directly affect the weather patterns. “So one place gets massive hail all the time, and another place never gets any rain,” she said. She called for an independent environmental review and that they could reach out to the university. “We need to think about the future,” said Ms. Alexander. 

We had our own experience with heat domes. On Monday night, when we were covering the Maryville City Council Meeting, the room was unusually hot and humid. When we got out, at just before 8:00 pm, the temperature was 95 degrees while the surrounding area was in the high 80’s. A few years ago, we made a trip to Eagleville during the summer and the temperature in the early afternoon shot up from the high 80’s to around 95. When we left, the temperature went back down to 89. 

And on top of the proposed data centers, there was the ongoing road construction in the area. There is ongoing work turning the intersection at Route 71 and U into a J-turn, which the DOT says will reduce the risk of head-on collisions and road deaths. That step has drawn opposition from both proponents and critics of the proposed data center along with the commissioners, since it will make it harder for farmers on one side of Route 71 to access land on the other side of the road. Presiding Commissioner Bill Walker said that the commission had registered its opposition to the J-turn project. “They don’t listen to us,” said Mr. Walker. 

On top of that, there are communication issues at the DOT, something Worth County commissioners have noted in their meetings this year. One visitor to Tuesday's Nodaway County Commission meeting, Susie Strauch, was advised by the DOT that Route U, from 71 to Arkoe, was closing for bridge work, which would have createad a hardship since the nearby Moffat Road bridge is going to be worked on by the township. Later that morning, she got a call from the DOT and was advised that they were actually planning to work on the Bolckow bridge instead.

Taking aim at the 100+ jobs being touted by Scale Microgrids on its White Cloud Acres website, Ms. Strauch cited the 1,997 jobs in farming in Nodaway County as touted by Missouri Farmers Care, which administers the Agri-Ready status for Nodaway and other counties. “They’re taking prime land,” she said.

Wanda Goodspeed expressed concerns about the environment, noise, and quality of life. She said her nephew built a forever home that turned out to be right next to where the proposed $6 billion data center would be located. She said she worked in a factory for over 35 years and had to wear earplugs. She said she already hears the noise from the construction of the Evergy plant that is being built next door to the data center. “We are all here because we wanted the safety that comes from living in a rural area,” said Ms. Goodspeed. She said that one of the highlights of living where she does is watching the calves, colts, sheep, and lambs and checking to see how much the corn has grown after a rain. “Peoples’ lives should be more important,” said Ms. Goodspeed. She said that she was not against all technology, and that she used it like everyone else, but that what they had was adequate. 

Jeff From called on the Commission to act quickly to put together zoning and get answers to their questions during the six-month moratorium that they passed recently. “We feel like we’re disposable,” added Ms. Strauch. Commissioner Walker said they were going to talk about forming a zoning committee to include people from every township. Currently, commissioners have been absent, with Bill Walker absent due to illness last week and Scott Walk absent this week.

Donna Tompkins said that a recent main break on the Rural Water District’s lines show that they have issues with providing enough water to the area, let alone a data center with massive water needs. Currently, the Rural Water District has three different sources they can draw from, including the one in Gentry County that supplies Grant City and Parnell, and is looking for a fourth. 

Scott Wilson asked about the community development agreement. Commissioner Chris Burns said that it was just in a rough draft stage right now and that they needed to talk further with their attorney. “I don’t want this to drag on for 2-3 months,” said Mr. Wilson. Commissioners pledged that the moratorium was for everyone, not themselves. “If we don’t get the answers we’re looking for, we’ll extend it,” said Commissioner Walker. Jeff From said that it looked like the data center didn’t have a plan either. “That’s not acceptable,” said Mr. Wilson. Ms. Strauch said they probably planned to start doing the electrical phase first. Scale Microgrids recently filed a DNR permit application for White Cloud Generating, which would build 12 natural gas turbines, which would sell electricity to the grid for White Cloud Acres, the data center portion of the project, to buy back. The tentative construction start date was listed as February 2027. According to the August 6th minutes, Commissioners stated that the recently-passed moratorium applies to the power generator portion of the project.

While participants at the meeting pushed commissioners to move quicker on forming a zoning committee and getting answers, Commissioner Walker said that the commission had until the last week of the moratorium to extend it. 

Nodaway County Commission Minutes for August 6th, 2026

Convene

North District Commissioner Chris Burns called the meeting of the Nodaway County Commission to order at 8:00 a.m. on August 6, 2026 at the Commissioner’s Office. Present: Chris Burns and Scott Walk.  Also present: Melinda Patton, County Clerk.  Not present:  Bill Walker

Approval of Agenda and Prior Minutes

Commissioner Burns made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Walk seconded the motion.  The motion passed by vote: Burns (Yes); Walk (Yes.)  Walk made a motion to approve prior commission minutes dated 8/4/26.  Burns seconded the motion.  The motion passed by vote: Burns (Yes); Walk (Yes.)  

Approved: Liquor License for The Ville 101.

Accounts Payable: Checks #88360-88403

Requisitions:  Sheriff to MTE for equipment; Collector/Treasurer to Missouri Office of Prosecution Services. 

Reviewed:  The Commission reviewed the following information received by mail or email:

 Emails from citizen on proposed data center 

 Certificate of Liability Insurance – Maryville Glass and Lock Co., Inc.

 Senate Bill 3 (SB3) updates from Travis Elliott, Ellis, Ellis, Hammond and Johnson, P.C.

 MoDOT notice re: Route 71 Intersection Improvement Project beginning August 10th

Building and Property Maintenance – Elaine Wilson, Circuit Clerk, called to discuss phone issues her office has been having.  Wilson has been working with the help desk at United Fiber to find a solution.  Other offices have also had intermittent issues.  A call was put in to Darren Farnan to make him aware of ongoing concerns.  The check from Traveler’s Insurance was received for the Road and Bridge truck that was totaled.  

Public Comment – Citizens shared concerns over turbines, Development Agreement being made public, Missouri Department of Transportation’s (MoDOT) J-turn, natural gas lines, hiring a consultant (specifically Steve Etcher), more acreage being sought to increase footprint, additional data centers looking to come to Nodaway County and if the moratorium would cover the power plant site with the Commissioners. The Commissioners discussed that the development agreement is a very rough draft and has been marked up to share with the county attorney Travis Elliott. It was shared as a confidential document, so the Commissioners will discuss with Elliott if it can be shared. The Commission explained that they would rather wait until it is a document that has been ironed out with the developer more.  No consultant has been hired by Nodaway County. Per Josh McKim, Nodaway County Economic Development (NCED), no more acreage has been purchased by the current proposed data center, only easements have been purchased/filed. The Commissioners agreed that this was what they were aware of as well. Burns stated that this information could be accessed through the Recorder of Deeds office or the Assessor’s office. The Commission shared that the moratorium also covers the power plant site.  Those present: Bill Oliver, KXCV/KRNW Radio, Geoffrey Woehlk, Maryville Forum, Dustin Skoglund, Susie Strauch, Mike Wilson, Scott Wilson, Rene Puckett, Jeffrey From, Jennifer Gillespie, Rhonda Beattie, Time Schafer, Kim Swyers, Donna Tompkins, Austin Hann, Sheriff, Lori Burns, Public Administrator, Josh McKim and Kim Mildward, (NCED)

County Clerk – Patton reviewed several Sunshine Requests received.  Several were forwarded on to Elliott to review.

Nodaway Nursing Home – Jessica Jacobsen and Kim Marshall stopped in to inquire about acquisition of the lease for the county owned building.  Reviewed an email from Benjamin Blowers, Associate Attorney for Sternshein Legal Group.

Lunch Break – Walk made a motion to adjourn for lunch.  Burns seconded the motion.  All in favor.

Opioid Settlement Funds – Reviewed and discussed an email from Brian Madden, Wagstaff & Cartmell, LLP on pending opioid litigation. Commission unanimously agree to accept the mediator proposal.

Tenaska Donation – Responded to an email from a community member regarding parameters for qualifying for funds. 

County Attorney – Spoke with County Attorney, Travis Elliott re: Four Sunshine Requests received from Alison Quennoz, Community Outreach Coordinator Jeffery Law Group, LLC.

Adjournment – Burns made a motion to adjourn until 8/11/2026.  Walk seconded the motion.  The motion passed by vote:  Burns (Yes); Walk (Yes.)    

Robert Lewin 1956-2026

Robert Earl Lewin, age 70, of Papillion, Nebraska, passed away on August 8, 2026.

Robert was born to Virgil Albin Lewin and Martha Lue (Cobb) Lewin on February 12, 1956 in Trenton, Missouri. He was a 1974 graduate of Trenton High School and a 1976 graduate of North Central Missouri College.

Robert started working for Trenton, Missouri, Hy-Vee at the age of 16. He was very dedicated and moved up in positions at Trenton. His first transfer was to Bethany, Missouri. Then, to Chillicothe, Missouri, where Robert met Marlynn Kay Plowman and was united in marriage on January 7, 1989. In 1992, daughter, Haley was born. In 1993, Robert was promoted to his first Store Director position in Grant City, Missouri. He was honored to earn Store of the Quarter 1993-94. Two years later, he transferred to Mount Ayr, Iowa. Then, in 1997, a promotion to his most long term position as Store Director at Osceola, Iowa. He guided the staff, made improvements, and in 1999, Robert was selected Store Director of the Year. Robert enjoyed his job, the staff, and customers. He retired in 2008 and in 2011 made his home in Papillion, Nebraska.

Robert was always active in his community. He felt this was the best way to promote Hy-Vee, and he wanted to give back to the community. He loved being involved in Kiwanis, Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce, Booster Club, and Lions.

Robert grew up playing sports whether it be basketball, tennis, or baseball. When he lived in Bethany, Missouri, he took interest in volleyball and softball. In Grant City, Missouri, he started playing golf. Then, when moving to Papillion, Nebraska, pickleball became his favorite activity. Sports became another way to meet new people as he transferred to each city.

Robert was hard working, outgoing, caring, a mentor, and a good person. He enjoyed being with his family, visiting with friends, traveling, Royals, Chiefs, and taking care of his granddog, Teddy. Robert loved watching Haley participate in sports and is so proud of all she and Ash do. He will be missed by his family and friends.

Robert is survived by his wife of 37 years, Marlynn, of their home. Also survived by daughter, Haley Gambhir and husband, Ash of Sandy, Utah; mother-in-law, Joyce Plowman of Chillicothe, Missouri; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Marcie Sharp and Bob Sharp of Chillicothe, Missouri; and nieces, nephews, and cousins. Robert was preceded in death by his parents and father-in-law, Donald Plowman.

The visitor register will be available for signing at Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Missouri, on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. A Graveside Memorial Service will be held at Edgewood Cemetery, Chillicothe, Missouri, on Friday, August 14, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. (You are welcome to bring a chair.) Memorial contributions to Nebraska Cancer Specialists HOPE Foundation and can be left at or mailed to Lindley Funeral Home, PO Box 47, Chillicothe, MO 64601 or left at the Graveside Memorial Service. Online condolences may be left at www.lindleyfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Missouri.

Weekly Area Road Work for August 12th, 2026

Daviess County

Route C – Resurfacing project through Aug. 18. The roadway may be CLOSED or narrowed to one lane with flaggers. (Contractor: Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc.)

Route 6 – Milling pavement from Route 13 to Route CC and Route DD junction, Aug. 10-11.

U.S. Route 69 – Milling pavement from Route C to Route T, Aug. 12-14.

Gentry County

Route UU – Resurfacing project through Aug. 20. The roadway may be CLOSED or narrowed to one lane with flaggers. (Contractor: Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc.)

Nodaway County

U.S. Route 71 – Intersection improvement project at 340th Street beginning Aug. 10, through early November 2026. (Contractor: Leavenworth Excavating & Equipment Company, Inc.) https://www.modot.org/projects/us-route-71-j-turn-installation-nodaway-county

U.S. Route 71 – Resurfacing project from the Iowa state line to U.S. Route 136 near Burlington Junction through August 2026. The road will be narrowed to one lane, and a 10-foot width restriction will be in place.

U.S. Route 136 – Resurfacing project from I-29 to U.S. Route 71 through August 2026. The road will be narrowed to one lane, and a 10-foot width restriction will be in place.

Route VV – CLOSED for a deck replacement project at the Platte River Bridge through December 2026. (Contractor: Louis-Company, LLC) https://www.modot.org/projects/route-vv-bridge-replacement-nodaway-county

Route J – Resurfacing project through Aug. 24. The roadway may be CLOSED or narrowed to one lane with flaggers. (Contractor: Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc.)

Route KK – Culvert repair from 180th Street to 170th Street, Aug. 11. The roadway will be narrowed to one lane 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route KK – Culvert repair from U.S. Route 136 to 180th Street, Aug. 12. The roadway will be narrowed to one lane 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route KK – Culvert repair from 180th Street to 170th Street, Aug. 11. The roadway will be narrowed to one lane 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Route H – CLOSED for a culvert replacement from 375th Street to 400th Street, Aug. 12, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

I-35 to be Resurfaced in Harrison County

 Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc., working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, is scheduled to begin a resurfacing project on Harrison County Interstate 35 from the Iowa State line to just south of Eagleville beginning Monday, Aug. 17.

Traffic Impacts: I-35 will be narrowed to one lane with an 11-foot width restriction. Motorists can expect delays.

The resurfacing is scheduled to be completed in early October 2026.

All work is weather-permitting, and schedules are subject to change. MoDOT asks drivers to work with us by always buckling up, keeping your phones down, slowing down and moving over in work zones. Know before you go and check what work zones you might encounter at traveler.modot.org.

Get project and work zone news straight to your email by signing up for eUpdates. Information is also available 24/7 by calling 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visiting www.modot.org/northwest.

At Least Three Measures on Missouri Ballot for November

At least three measures will be on the Missouri Ballot for November 2026, with the possibility of two more making the ballot according to Ballotpedia, a site which covers elections in all 50 states.

Amendment 3 would reinstate the abortion ban that Missouri voters repealed in a previous election and prohibit gender transition surgeries and treatments until a person turns 18. It would prohibit abortion with the exception of medical emergencies, fetal anomalies such as ectopic pregnancies, or rape and incest. The rape and incest exception only applies for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. 

Amendment 7 would create a sovereign wealth fund that the state would put money into for investment purposes. When the fund generates enough return on investment, the state would eliminate all income and sales taxes and rely on revenues from the sovereign wealth fund. People could donate to the fund. The state would be required to invest it in exchange-traded funds tied to the S&P 500. After the elimination of the income tax and sales tax is triggered, the state could not reenact them unless the fund was unable to meet its obligations. 

Another amendment would require the election of county sheriffs to four-year terms. Worth County already elects its sheriffs to four-year terms. Sheriffs could not be removed from office except if the Missouri Attorney General files an action in court.

These measures were enacted by the legislature. There are two other potential measures which could make the ballot. The first is a measure that would repeal the redistricting done by the Missouri Legislature. It is currently tied up in court. The second is a measure which would prohibit the legislature from changing or amendment a citizen-led initiative unless 80% of voters approve the measure. It would also prohibit the legislature from making changes to the citizen initiative process. 

Editorial -- The People of Missouri Have Spoken

The people of Missouri have spoken. People in every corner of the state overwhelmingly rejected measures that would have given blank checks to politicians. Amendment 4 would have given politicians a blank check to rewrite our state constitution while making it much harder for citizen petitions to get off the ground. Amendment 5 would have given politicians a blank check to jack up sales taxes and tax goods and services that have historically never been taxed in Missouri. 

People have overwhelmingly elected a conservative majority in the state. But we believe in checks and balances. An informed public is essential to reigning in the excesses of any body of government, regardless of who is in charge. The legislature has just as much of a right to participate in the process as anyone else. They can and do put measures on the ballot, and some of them get passed. The current state of affairs is fair and adequate.

Regarding Amendment 5, none of us like to pay taxes. But taxes are the price we pay to live in a civilized society. People have been hammered with inflation since COVID-19 broke out in this country, and the sticker shock from sales taxes would have made it even worse and discouraged the very economic activity the legislature says it supports.

People want roads, bridges, and schools fully funded, a law enforcement system that puts criminals behind bars and takes crime seriously, and more control over their own lives.

The margin of defeat of Amendments 4 and 5 show that there is a serious gap of trust between the politicians and the public. If they want to earn it back, one thing they could do is restore local control to our counties and cities. 

Local control for CAFO's was fair and adequate. Some places, like Mercer County, welcomed them with open arms in response to the 1980's farm crisis. Other places, like Worth County, are much more skeptical. The same thing applies to data centers. Some places welcome them with open arms. Other places, including people in Nodaway County, are much more skeptical and have concerns about health, water, and quality of life. 

Route T in Allendale on Unfunded Needs List

On Thursday, the Missouri Department of Transportation released a draft list of high-priority unfunded needs list for roads and bridges around the state. The document identifies $4.7 billion in unfunded transportation needs for the system and guides the development of future projects as state and federal transportation dollars become available. 

The document breaks it down into several tiers. Tier one includes $541 million in needs that could be included through the current program as federal and state funding becomes available. Tier two outlines $2 billion of needs that go beyond the current program. Tier three includes $2.1 billion of additional needs beyond the first two tiers. In addition, the DOT has identified $1 billion more in transportation needs beyond this list and $1.1 billion in statewide operations and maintenance needs. The draft document is open for public comment. The DOT has an online comment form available on its website through September 10th.

Tier two includes the following unfunded transportation needs in the area:

Nodaway -- Intersection improvement on Route 136 at Katydid Road east of Maryville. 

Nodaway -- Intersection improvement on Route 71 and South Avenue in Maryville. 

Worth -- Pavement resurfacing on Route T from Allendale to the Iowa State Line.

Tier three includes the following unfunded transportation needs in the area:

Daviess -- Rehabilitate I-35 from Route C to Route 69.

Harrison -- Major Interstate reconstruction on I-35.

Other unfunded needs include the following:

Gentry -- Extend runway at Albany Municipal Airport.

Nodaway -- Add or reconstruct sidewalk from North Laura to South Davis, 1st Street to South Avenue, and Munn to University Drive in Maryville.

Nodaway -- Planning for trail from Maryville to Lake Mozingo.

Nodaway -- Add or reconstruct sidewalk College Avenue to 16th Street, North College Avenue to North Main, and University Drive to North Main in Maryville.

Nodaway -- Extend runway at Northwest Missouri Regional Airport in Maryville. 

Ann Roach 1940-2026

Arlene Ann Roach, age 85, Grant City, Missouri, passed away Thursday,  August 6, 2026, at her home in Grant City with her family by her side.

Ann was born on August 27, 1940 at home in a little community known as ‘Tinkerville” southwest of Redding, Iowa. She was the middle child of Efton James and Bessie Irene (King) Hall.

Ann graduated from Redding Consolidated High as the Valedictorian in the Class of 1958.

She was united in marriage to Jerry Dean Roach on February 20, 1959, at the Assembly of God Church in Redding, Iowa.  To this union four children were born, Brenda Gale, Rocky Jay, Liberty Rene’ and Rodney Lance.   This was a marriage that would last 67 years.

Ann had worked at various jobs, her last was a Missouri Realtor for 20 years.

Ann played guitar with an all-female band called “Wild Wood Flowers.”

Ann enjoyed life’s moments, like sitting on the porch with a cup of coffee watching and listening to the day as it woke up.  She also liked boating, red roses, cooking and country music.  Anybody that visited with Ann found out that she had a deep love for God, country and family.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Efton and Irene, a 17-month-old brother James Franklin Hall, sister Darlene O’Banion, niece Twila O’Banion and her husband Jerry Roach (June 7, 2026).

Left to share her memory are children Brenda (Jim) Kennedy, Stewartsville, Missouri, Rocky (Karen) Roach, Rea, Missouri, Liberty (Ingo) Zaenker, Deep Water, Missouri, Rod (Karla) Roach, St. Joseph, Missouri, a brother Galen Dean (Sharen) Hall, Pueblo, Colorado, sister Vondene Elaine (Carl) Norgaard, Jainsville, Wisconsin, 14 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

A natural farewell graveside service was held at 11 AM, Friday, August 7, 2026 at the Fletchall Cemetery, Grant City. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at the Gentry Christian Church, Gentry, Missouri.

Memorials: Gentry Christian Church and the Fletchall Cemetery.

Local arrangements are under the direction of the Hann Funeral Home, Grant City.

Route 246 Overhaul on DOT Radar

The resurfacing of Route 246 is now on the Missouri Department of Transportation's radar, Matthew Stein of the DOT told the Sheridan City Council Monday, August 4th. The road received a temporary fix two years ago, but it is starting to crumble again, especially near Hopkins. That brought up the topic of overhauling the parking lot in front of the storefront. It was commonly believed at the city for at least 20 years that the DOT owned the parking lot as well as the road itself; however, no deeds to that effect have been found. The DOT is believed to own the tubes running under 246 from 6th Street to the railroad; however, no deeds have been found besides one for 6th Street. 

The council voted to reopen the road at 4th & Crescent that it had closed at July meeting. The city's barricades came down the next day. However, the posts on the portion of the area that Jerry and Valerie Rauch say they own and that had been encroached on by traffic using the road over the years remained up with a rope barrier added. The council tabled further discussion of the issue until all council members could be present.

Barry Lyle reported that city's water tower was inspected. The inspectors said that the tower needs to be drained and cleaned.

The county will haul rock for 6th Street soon.

The city will seek reimbursement for expenses in replacing a tube on the south side of town on 4th Street as well as the roof replacement at the outhouse in the park, among other projects, following President Donald Trump's disaster declaration for Worth and other counties for damage from storms in June. The council authorized Abby Hawk to work on the project. 

The city put in a new water main for a customer, for which it will be reimbursed. 

The tax rate hearing will be held on Monday, August 24th at 6:00 pm. 

Hopkins Seeks to Overhaul Water System

The City of Hopkins is in the process of considering overhauling its water system. The last time it had done so was over 30 years ago. The council authorized the city to pursue a Preliminary Engineering Report grant through the Missouri State Revolving fund, which offers Engineering Report grants, and through the USDA Rural Development program. 

The State Drinking Water Revolving Fund pays for reasonable engineering services, costs for additional items approved by the department, and deemed reasonable,  necessary, and produces an engineering report that makes reaonable and cost-effective recommendations. The program does not cover services completed before the grant is awarded or outside the approved project period, application preparation, costs outside the scope of the project, ourdinary operating expenses and salaries, administrative activities, fines, penalties, or use of the city's own labor force.

The program awards up to $30,000, with a local match of 20%. However, qualifiying disadvantaged communities can receive up to 100% of the grant, not to exceed $37,500. Disadvantaged communities include communities with less than 3,300 people, have a median household income of 75% or less of the state average, and have user rates at or above 2% of the median household income.

USDA preliminary engineering grants are available for rural areas and towns with a population of 10,000 or fewer, and which have a median household income of below the poverty line or less than 80% of the statewide non-metropolitan median household income.

Program funds can be used to help eligible communities obtain Preliminary Engineering Reports. Grants cannot be used to pay for work already completed. The amount of the grant will be subtracted from the total grant eligibility if a USDA grant is awarded for part of the water or wastewater project. These grants do not have to be paid back if the application for a subsequent USDA Direct Loan and/or grant is not successful. Grant awards are based on demonstrated need and availability of funds.  The maximum grant award is $60,000 or 75% of predevelopment costs. The program requires a 25% match.

Ed Drummond came to talk about a neighbor across the street that he says has overgrown weeds. The council authorized a letter of violation through the attorney with a deadline to clean the property up.

The city is in the process of locating the address for the owner of the tailer next to Rick's that it says is in violation of city ordinances and that it is seeking to condemn. Once it is located, the city will send a letter of condemnation.

Jody Thompson asked for permission to tear out the sidewalk in front of her house that is deteriorating. The council approved her request.

The city received a written complaint from a citizen alleging that their neighbor was keeping goats, chickens, and eight dogs within a fence made of pallets. The city will research its ordinances to determine possible violations.

The city recieved a letter of violation from the DNR. The DNR letter alleged that in May 2025, the city received a violation regarding e.coli. The second violation alleged that the city failed to notify the public within  one year after the date of the original violation. 

Local Election Results for August 4th, 2026

Nodaway County Prosecuting Attorney

David Hershberger 2,865
Tina Deiter 989

Worth County Clerk
Melissa Percell 261
Brandon Allee 194

Chris Stigall is winning narrowly over Nathan Willett in the District 6 Congressional race. Phil Fox won the Missouri House District 2 race. Both Amendment 4 and Amendment 5 were trounced. Amendment 1, the Parks and Soil tax, won handily and will be in effect for another 10 years.

Area Courthouse, Police, and Crime Reports for August 5th, 2026

On July 28th, a Hopkins woman posted on Facebook that some kids were caught in the act of climbing the roofs of her business and the one south of it. The kids allegedly said they had gotten permission from someone to climb it. Trespassing is a violation of Missouri law.

On July 29th, Northwest Mo Info reported that a fire on Monday, July 27th destroyed a building at the DRT Bullet Factory near Albany. There were no injuries.

On July 29th, Daviess County Prosecutor Andrea Beth Gibson filed charges against Robert Ellis (41) of Cameron alleging Harassment (Felony), Stalking (Felony), and Violation of Protection Order. Bond was denied.

On July 29th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Deiter filed charges against Travis Husing (56) of Maryville alleging Violation of Protection Order.

On July 29th, Nodaway County Prosecutor Tina Deiter filed charges against Makenzie Cobb (32) of Maryville alleging DWI, Careless & Imprudent Driving, Failure to Yield to Emergency Vehicle, and Failure to Signal.

On July 30th, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against David Jones (67) of King City alleging two counts Driving While Revoked (Felony) and Failure to Register.

On July 31st, Gentry County Prosecutor Jessica Jones filed charges against Garrett Busby (30) of Stanberry alleging No Valid License (Felony), Failure to Signal, and No Insurance.

On August 2nd, Daviess County Prosecutor Andrea Beth Gibson filed charges against Aaron Landes (45) of Jamesport alleging Resisting Arrest. Bond was set at $2,500, cash only.

On August 3rd, Tyler Storm (39) of Independence pleaded guilty in Nodaway County Circuit Court to charges of Possession of Controlled Substance (Felony) and Failure to Register as Sex Offender (Felony). He was placed on five years probation by Judge Corey Herron. Defendant must enter and successfully complete the Good Foundations Program.

On August 3rd, Harrison County Prosecutor Michael Wulff filed charges against James Coss (40) of Bethany alleging Aggravated Fleeting (Felony), Resisting Arrest (Felony), DWI, Careless & Imprudent Driving, and Trespassing. Bond was set at $50,000, cash only.

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. 

 

Community Calendar for August 5th, 2026

Community Calendar items are free of charge. To submit, email us at express@grm.net. All events are subject to change or last-minute cancelation.

REPEATING EVENTS

Mondays (except holidays) – Worth County Commissioners meet at 9 am.

Fridays – Bedford Jam, United Christian Presbyterian Church, 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm. Snacks and drinks available. Walk-ons are welcome. For information, call (712) 523-2282.

Fridays– Community Market, Memorial Park Shelter, Bethany. Fridays 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Saturdays – Stanberry Community Farmers Market, 8 am to noon. Crafts, donuts, and more. Located six miles north of Stanberry on Highway B to AF. 4371 Highway AF.

Every Second Wednesday – Worth County Suicide Prevention Coalition, 5:00 pm, Worth County Community Church.

REGULAR ANNOUNCEMENTS

August 5^th – Community Blood Center Blood Drive, Ravenwood United Methodist Church, Ravenwood, 2 pm to 6 pm.

August 6^th to 8^th – Fur Takers of America National Trapping & Homesteading Convention, Macon County Fairgrounds, Macon. Starting at 6:00 pm on August 6^th with a kickoff concert. Admission $20 for the weekend; veterans and kids 15 & under free. Camping available at $20/night (primitive) or $40/night (full hookup). Meals available on-site.

August 6^th to 8^th – Jameson Annual Picnic. Celebrating our nation’s 250^th anniversary, the 150^th anniversary of the founding of Jameson, and the 135^th anniversary of the founding of the Picnic. Celebrations start on Thursday, August 6^th at 7:00 pm, on Friday, August 7th at 6:00 pm, and with a parade at 10:00 am on Saturday, August 8^th. 

August 7^th – North Nodaway district wide online registration.

August 7^th to 8^th (tentative) – Hopkins City Cleanup.

August 7^th to 9^th – Missouri Back to School State Sales Tax Holiday. Qualifying purchases are exempt from Sales Tax.

August 7^th to 8^th – Pickering Horse Show. August 7^th -- $2,500 overload draft horse pull, 6:00 pm. August 8^th – Poker Run, 10:30 am. Cost is $20 with 50% payback with $250 added. August 8^th – Horse Show, 4:00 pm.

August 7^th to 8^th – Blythedale Free Fair. August 7^th – Rides begin 6:00 pm. High Country in concert from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. August 8^th – Parade 5:30 pm. Rides begin 6:00 pm. Bill & Lisa Bennett and the Midnight Country Band in concert from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

August 8^th -- The Nodaway County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Site will be open Saturday, August 8th, 2026 from 8 am to noon. The collection site is located at the Nodaway County Maintenance Barn, 1516 E. Halsey Street, Maryville.

August 8^th – No Data Center Protest, 11:30 am to 1 pm, Wal-Mart Drive and South Main, Maryville.

August 10^th – MSHSAA fall varsity sports practices may begin.

August 10^th to 11^th – Junior High and High School Registration at North Harrison, 9:00 am.

August 10^th to 14^th, 17^th to 19^th – North Harrison Band Camp, 10:30 am each morning.

August 10^th to 13^th – NEN Color Guard Camp, 1 pm to 4 pm.

August 11^th – Worth County Registration Day.

August 11^th – NEN Registration for PK through 12^th grade, 1 pm to 6 pm.

August 12^th – Car Show, Oak Pointe, 817 South Country Club Road, Maryville, 6:00 pm.

August 13^th -- Hopkins Food Pantry, 3 pm to 5 pm, Hopkins Christian Church Parsonage.

August 13^th – All Sports Parent Meeting at Worth County, 5:30 pm.

August 14^th – Pot Luck, Worth County Senior Center, 12 noon. Free will donation.

August 14^th -- The Hopkins Guys will be live in concert Friday, August 14th at the Roxy at 7:00 pm. Members will be Phil Forney, Jerry Forney, Robbie Forney, Ricky Cross, Rick Titus, Dennis White, and J.R. Gladman. Proceeds will be used to pay for the restoration of the neon sign.

August 15^th – Northeast Nodaway FFA Mystery Challenge Night with Mrs. Sobotka, 6:00 pm.

August 16^th -- Tri-C Memorial Post 464 Pancake Breakfast, 7 am to 11 am, Conception Junction. Proceeds to Cameron Veterans Home.

August 17^th – Junior High fall sports practices may begin.

August 17^th – In Person Registration at North Nodaway, 9:00 am.

August 17^th – Worth County Hazardous Mitigation Plan meeting, 5:30 pm, Sheridan Community Building.

August 19^th – North Harrison School Board Meeting, 5:30 pm. This will include the tax rate hearing.

August 19^th – North Nodaway Tax Rate Hearing, 5:50 pm. Regular School Board Meeting 6:00 pm.

August 19^th – Worth County School Board Meeting, 6:00 pm. This will include the tax rate hearing.

August 20^th – North Nodaway District Wide Open House, 4:00 pm.

August 20^th – Back to School Supper at NEN, hosted by the FFA, 5:00 pm. Mandatory incoming 6^th grade and new 7^th to 12^th grade meeting, 5:00 pm. Open House 5:30 pm. School Board Meeting 7:00 pm.

August 21^st – Tiger Varsity Football Jamboree at Tarkio, 7:00 pm.

August 22^nd – Worth County Democratic Rally, 11 am to 4 pm, Old 169 Club.

August 22^nd – Maryville Elks Lodge Membership Drive, 7 pm to 10 pm, North Vine Street between 2^nd and 3^rd Street. Bounce houses, Fire Department activities, Bingo, live music, street dance.

August 23^rd -- Ravenwood CBC Breakfast, 8:00 am to 12 noon. The Boys Basketball Team will be helping.

August 23^rd -- A cake party will double as a fundraiser for the Roxy Theater in Hopkins. The party will be held Sunday, August 23rd at the North Nodaway Gym with doors opening at 2 pm. Cost is $20 per person with preregistration or $25 at the door. All proceeds will go to the Roxy. To enter or for more information, contact Deena Poynter (660) 541-1336, Kary Owens (660) 562-0460, or Judy Crane (660) 254-2427.

August 24^th – First day of School at North Nodaway and Worth County. Early Dismissal.

August 24^th – Annual meeting of GRM Networks, 10 am, GRM corporate office, Princeton.

August 24^th – Elementary Open House, North Harrison, 5:00 pm. All-sports parent meeting at 6:30 pm. Sixth grade orientation at 7:00 pm.

August 24^th – Elementary Open House at Gilman City, 5:30 pm.

August 24^th – Sheridan City Council Tax Rate Hearing, 5:30 pm, Sheridan Community Building.

August 25^th – First day of School at NEN.

August 25^th – North Harrison Softball Jamboree, 5:30 pm.

August 26^th – First day of School at Gilman City. Early dismissal.

August 27^th -- Hopkins Food Pantry, 3 pm to 5 pm, Hopkins Christian Church Parsonage.

August 29^th – Stampede the Ville.

August 29^th – North Nodaway Class of 2030 will sponsor a 5K Run/Walk during the Hopkins Picnic. Registration will start at 7:00 am and the Run/Walk will start at 7:30 am at the intersection of 148 and JJ.

August 29^th – The Grant City Fire Department will be holding a night golf tournament with tee time at 4:30 pm. The first nine holes will be played during daylight, and the other nine will be played at night. Cost is $60 per team. Meal will be provided by the Grant City Christian Church ladies. All proceeds will go to the Grant City Fire Department.

August 30^th – Sheridan Express Cooperative Board Meeting, 5:00 pm, Sheridan Villa Laundry Room.

September 3^rd to 7^th – Northwest Missouri State Fair, Bethany.

September 4^th – No School at North Harrison. Northwest Missouri State Fair. Early dismissal at Gilman City.

September 5^th – “Exploring the Dark” Hike, Crowder State Park, Trenton, 9 pm to 10 pm. Free and open to the public. Guided tour of the park. Bring water and closed-toe shoes.

September 6^th – American Legion Breakfast, 8 am, Parnell Legion Hall.

September 7^th – No school or mail delivery. Labor Day.

September 8^th – Middle School/High School Grandparents Day at North Nodaway High School, 11 am.

September 8^th – Blockton City Council Meeting, 7:00 pm.

September 9^th – Tiger Golf will be hosting a home meet with Albany, Stanberry, and North Harrison at 4:00 pm.

September 11^th – Elementary Grandparents Day at Pickering, 11 am.

September 12^th – North Harrison Junior High Softball Tournament.

September 12^th – Worth County Suicide Prevention Coalition 5K Run/2K walk. Registration 7 am; run starts at 7:30 am and lasts until 12 noon. Free resources will be available from the VA, and a VA specialist will be on site. Cost $20. To RSVP, contact Jeremy Baker (660) 254-5311. Shirts are available; to order, contact Jeremy Baker by August 12^th. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please contact the Suicide Crisis Hotline at 988.

September 16^th – North Harrison Elementary Title Night, 5:00 pm.

September 17^th – Shamrock Softball (JH/V/JV) vs. North Andrew, 4:30 pm. Senior Night.

September 18^th to 19^th – Turkey Run Flea Market and Swap Meet. 12 noon to 6 pm September 18^th; 8 am to 6 pm September 19^th. Anything tradable welcome from homemade goods, antiques, tools, toys, clothes, livestock, vehicles, auto parts, crafts, food vendors, and more. Space: $15. Electric Hookups: $25. Camper: $45. After September 7^th, add $5. If interested, call Adam Emery (660) 541-2984 or Sarah Emery (660) 853-0141.

September 19^th – Dusty Cowgirl 5^th Anniversary Party, Grant City Square, 12 noon.

September 20^th -- Tri-C Memorial Post 464 Pancake Breakfast, 7 am to 11 am, Conception Junction. Proceeds to Sons of the American Legion Post 464.

September 20^th – 3^rd Annual Cody Lee Stiens Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser, Nodaway County Senior Center, 8 am to 1 pm. Raffle and Silent Auction. Adults $15, children four and under free.

September 26^th – North Harrison Softball Round Robin.

October 3^rd – Great Northwest Winefest, 1805 Nebraska Street, Mound City (Swimming Pool), 11:30 am. Proceeds will go to raise funds for Northwest Missouri Enterprise Facilitation.

October 10^th – Maryville Fall into Fun, 12 noon to 6 pm. Market vendors, music, kids activities, and more.

October 13^th – Hopkins Historical Society Fall Meeting, 7:00 pm.

October 18^th -- Tri-C Memorial Post 464 Pancake Breakfast, 7 am to 11 am, Conception Junction. Proceeds to Post 464 membership.

October 23^rd – Last day to file as a write-in candidate for the November 3^rd election, 5:00 pm.

November 3^rd – General election for Missouri. Polls open at 6 am and close at 7 pm.

November 15^th -- Tri-C Memorial Post 464 Pancake Breakfast, 7 am to 11 am, Conception Junction. Proceeds to Ladies Auxiliary Unit 464.

May 29^th – North Nodaway Alumni Reunion, North Nodaway School, 5:30 pm.