Worth County Progress Organization, Extension Partner for New Position

The Worth County Progress Organization and the University of Missouri Extension Council of Worth County finalized an agreement last week to join efforts in providing economic and community development services to Worth County. Through this agreement, the MU Extension Council of Worth County will employ a part-time office manager responsible for maintaining regular open hours for the Extension, while performing community and economic development responsibilities on behalf of the Worth County Progress Organization.

This position will be hired jointly by members of both organizations with assistance from MU Extension faculty. Jackie Spainhower, County Engagement Specialist in Worth County and Community Economic Development Specialist for MU Extension, will provide direct supervision for this position, with input from both the Progress Organization and Worth County Extension Council. Additionally, she will provide mentorship and guidance to the person hired for this position. 

“Through this partnership, an opportunity will be created to provide tailored community and economic development programming in Worth County while maintaining open office hours for Extension,” said Jackie Spainhower.  Amber Monticue, treasurer for Worth County Progress stated, “I look forward to seeing the new opportunities this collaboration can bring to Worth County, for the betterment of our community.”

Announcements advertising this position and how to apply will be in local newspapers and on social media soon. Questions about the position can be directed to Jackie Spainhower, County Engagement Specialist for MU Extension in Worth County at 660-564-3363, email spainhowerj@missouri.edu, or Chevy Davidson, Chairman of the Worth County Progress Organization at 660-254-0558, email chevy7703@gmail.com.  

Gene Auten Named Economic Developer

September 19th Minutes
Presiding Commissioner Ted Findley brought the meeting to order at 9:00 am.

Commissioner Regan Nonneman made a motion to approve minutes and agenda.   Commissioner Ted Findley seconded. All in favor, motion carried.

Treasurer Linda Brown presented the weekly balance sheet.

Gene Auten, County EMD brought the Insurance Services Office Automatic Aide Agreement for the commissioners to review. The ISO Rep thought they should approve it before the Fire Chief’s signed it.

Gene will attend MOSWNN radio training Sept 27th . The training is mandatory before the radio can be obtained.

Gene will be working on winter weather event planning by getting plans in place. He requested and received permission to purchase the items that he needs to fix the Emergency Trailer.  He will also meet with Community Service Director Lori Wimer about emergency food supplies in the event of a severe storm.

Gene as County Economic Developer: Gene reported that he had read the Grant City Strategic Plan, and has started on Sheridan’s.

Gene will organize both of the Progress Organization events.

The Progress Organization is sponsoring a Dave Ramsey Entrepreneur Event that will be held October 19th, 8:00 am to 4 pm.  Anyone is welcome to attend the presentation. Food will be provided.

The Progress Organization will also sponsor the Craft Fair again this year.

Road and Bridge Foreman Jim Fletchall reported by phone from the Norman Snead tube location.  He reported that he now only has 3 FEMA projects left.

After some discussion about the Sheriff needing to look more professional, Commissioner Regan Nonneman made a motion to order new hats for the Sheriff and both deputies.   Commissioner Ted Findley seconded. All in favor, motion carried.

Commissioner Regan Nonneman made a motion to adjourn at 11:00 am. Commissioner Ted Findley seconded. All in favor, motion carried.

1st County Market Days Held

The first County Market Days of the year was held Saturday morning on the Grant City Square. Vendors sold knives, hats, Mexican Cactus, wind dancers, fresh eggs, Jersey cream, salsa, pecan tassies, homemade dog treats,cinnamon hard candy, goat milk soap with cornmeal, felt wrapped soap that doubles as a tuffy pad, begonias, geraniums, and snapdragons. The next County Market Day will be held on Saturday, June 1st.

15 Attend Allendale Business Forum

(Worth County Economic Development) – The first of a series of Business Forums was held January 16th at the Allendale Community Hall.  There were 15 members of our community present.  Annette Weeks with Northwest Missouri Enterprise Facilitation described their program - a nonprofit organization that offers business coaching in northwest Missouri.  Their purpose is to promote economic and community revitalization by capturing the passion and interest of local entrepreneurs.  Annette meets one on one with current and prospective entrepreneurs to help them discuss and understand the needs to operate a successful business as well as help connect them to the needed resources.  Kim Mildward and Cory Crawford also presented information and hiring options for employers.  It was great information that offered opportunities to employ local folks at a reduced or no charge to the employer. 
Thanks to Allendale Community Betterment reps Vickie Miller, Peggy Miller, & Sharon Nonneman for providing such an awesome breakfast -- biscuits & gravy, eggs, potatoes, fruit cup, juice & coffee.  DEEELICIOUS!!

Worth County Commission -- Grant City Auto Business of the Month

Grant City Auto was named Business of the month by Worth County Economic Developer Tammy Ueligger during her report to the Worth County Commission Monday. Ueligger reported that there will also be a business forum tentatively scheduled for January 16th in Allendale. It will be sponsored by the Northwest Missouri Enterprise Facilitation. All business owners are invited to attend. Other such forums are tentatively scheduled for Sheridan and Grant City.

Dirk Groom reported that all gravel deliveries are complete for this year except for part of the Conservation gravel that the commission has already agreed to wait to deliver until early next year.

The County Commission will not meet on the 24th of December; however, they will meet on the 21st as they will need to sign paychecks. They will meet on the 31st.

Emergency Management Director Pat Kobbe reported that the Worth and Denver sirens were not working when activated from the Sheriff's truck. They did work when activated from the office. Kobbe also reported on the reprogramming of the radios.

Bids were opened for surplus tubes as well as a Crown Victoria. The Commission awarded the tubes to Dennis Gabbert and the Crown Victoria to Richard Supinger.

Road and Bridge Foreman Jim Fletchall reported that planks were put in a bridge north of Oxford. Two tubes were put in road #123 by Mount Waller; the road also needs sloping work as the bank is straight up. Road #186 needs sloping work as well; the road is more of a ditch than an actual road. A road by Danny Jackson's needs blading, a tube, and gravel. Fletchall reported that the tube budget was higher than expected this year. He said that the county would need to build one bridge and that five others would need work for next year.

Worth County Youth Interns Shine

 Worth County Economic Developer's Report
by Tammy Ueligger

Kayla Martell and Jennifer Runde worked in the office of Worth County Economic Developer over the summer, 2012. I would recommend them both for employment elsewhere.
  
While working at the office, I relied on them to answer the telephone and work independently on a multitude of projects. I allowed them to put together creative documents to enhance the projects with which they were involved. Their creativity, resourcefulness and ability to see a project through really made their contributions distinctive and successful! They have made bank deposits, created file folders and worked diligently on the upcoming 2012 Worth County Business Directory, all the while taking pride in their office environment.
  
During this time, they have become more effective communicators, often serving as my liaison to various members of our business community. They were invaluable during the creation of County Market Day! quickly learning the set-up procedure and duties, as well as working collaboratively with the vendors. County Market Day! was 2 - 3 Saturdays per month that they volunteered as part of their Community Service hours. In addition, they volunteered for Community Services on a number of projects, including the Back to School Fair.
  
Kayla’s energy and eagerness to learn new things AND Jennifer’s sense of humor and dedication to staying on task made working with them both a joy! I will miss them greatly.

Yes, my time with three great youth (Kayla Martell, Jennifer Runde & Derek Lykins) is done so that they may go elsewhere to learn new skills and further their knowledge of business practices in other environments. While working for Missouri Steel & Hose, Derek was NEVER late and worked very hard to complete each task that was asked of him. Those are awesome traits for a young man to possess! These young people gained valuable skills during this program that will enable them to be an asset to any business.
 
Unless further funding is found, we will wait until April 2013 to hire another batch of Worth County youth. There is a WIA Youth Workforce fund that will pay the wages (400 hours) of qualifying youth. This program runs from May - October. So, if your business needs help, let me know!
 
FOOTBALL! FOOTBALL! FOOTBALL! We are right in the middle of Football Season, and what an honor is to be part of Worth County Football! Our Football Team has been State Champions six times!! The opposition knows they have their work cut out for them long before they get to the field. Our reputation for hard hitters, quick hands and feet, and teamwork precedes us. The coaching staff, support staff, parents and players all need a high five (or a pat on the behind – depending on your atta boy! or good job! method of operation). The success of this program is evident of their hard work. Currently, Coach Chuck Borey and his support staff: Chris Healy, Larry Kinsella, Josh Smith and with the insight of Andy Ross, are working those players tirelessly to prepare for each game. The accurate info from our Statisticians, Janice Borey and Jeanie Fletcher gives them the ammo to work with. Thanks to all of you for your commitment to these youth! It gives me great pride to feel a part of this. I tout their successes everywhere I go and you can be sure it comes up when coffee is served in Allendale, Grant City and Sheridan. Do we earn this bragging right simply by living in this County? YES!
 
It takes a village (or villages) to raise a child and we can all share in their success. With that, we also must take responsibility for that which may inhibit their success. What can you do to encourage young people to achieve their goals? How can we create an environment that is evident of our desire to have young people be a part of our community? Call me or e-mail me with your ideas. (660) 254-3592 or wced@grantcity.net
 
Get Your Peanuts Here!! As part of an annual fundraiser, the Worth County Progress Organization will be selling peanuts at each home football game. These are roasted, salted and in the shell. You can’t eat just one! The next game against North Nodaway will be Homecoming on September 21st at 7:00 p.m. We will also be selling peanuts at the Lil’ Tigers Games on September 22nd beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the Football Stadium.
 
Through past efforts of others, Worth County has benefited from paved streets, high-speed internet, new emergency equipment, an ADA compliant Courthouse, a renovated swimming pool, 911 services, updating and creation of community and county strategic plans, a new Lil’ Tigers athletic shed, and new sidewalk and lighting on our county seat’s Square; not forgetting the Dollar General Store and the new Firehouse. In the last ten years, the quality of life in Worth County has improved by having leaders to facilitate, assist and spearhead these projects.
 
The Worth County Progress Organization was founded in 1999. In addition to their belief in the success of the communities of Worth County, they have been the driving force behind the creation of the position of Economic Developer for Worth County. It is part of the mission of the Worth County Progress Organization to work to insure long term vitality in a community that is attractive, clean, safe and rich in educational and entrepreneurial opportunities. In order to accomplish this, they are committed to being pro-active in the area of economic and community development. Many of you will receive a letter of invitation for your financial support of the Worth County Economic Developer.  Please consider your donation thoughtfully and prayerfully to continue funding this position.
 
In the next few months, you may be well aware of many visitors to our County. You will recognize license plates from all over the United States. These folks have traveled great distances to come to Worth County to help us limit the number of deer on our roadway. At the right time of year, they may also want to gather a turkey or pheasant, as well. These ‘visitors’ are here to reap the benefits of what Mother Nature has provided us in abundance. It is our civic duty to make them feel welcome and encourage them to return. The Economic Development office has created another “Worth County Bounty” basket showcasing the talents of local people. This basket will be left where these visitors stay to improve the sales of our Worth County Artisans. Offered will be honey, jams, jellies, books and soaps, to name a few. Do you have something to add? Are you a business owner who would like to share some sort of advertising? Please call me and I will pick it up to be sure you are included. When you run into a ‘foreigner,’ make it a point to nod, tip your hat, wave or acknowledge them in some way. Some of these persons may even be landowners. Part of the beauty of our County is the people who live here.

 I marvel at the beauty of the County each time I leave Grant City (in any direction!); I am awestruck at each sunrise and sunset I witness! I am enthralled with all the folks I am blessed to meet each day! No wonder those ‘foreigners’ choose this little spot of heaven on earth to visit! Until we meet again.............

County Commission Minutes -- County Makes Appointments to Local Emergency Planning Committee

Presiding Commissioner Findley called the meeting to order at 9:06 am.

1.    Commissioner Rob Ruckman reported the gas prices as $3.299 and diesel as $3.699   
2.    Commissioner Rob Ruckman made a motion to approve the minutes and agenda. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
3.    Treasurer Linda Brown presented the weekly balance sheet.
4.    Richard Supinger dropped of a check for the county salvage.
5.    Economic Developer Tammy Ueligger report: Tammy reported on County Market Day. There is a chiropractor wanting to come to Grant City one day a week if he can find a building. She has three students working in her new work study program called Worth County Works.
6.    Jim Fletchall, Road and Bridge Foreman Report:
    CR 101/220th Rd on the South edge of Worth needs a tube. It is in the City Limits but the County maintains the roadway. Commission approved the tube and maintenance rock.
    CR 100/Juniper Ave need seeded and mulched right away. Commission agreed and Commissioner Ruckman will mulch the area as soon as he can.
    The good mix of rock has been used from Norris Aggregate. They will check with Schildberg Quarry.
    Fletchall requested the purchase of a pickup to haul gas to the graders with.
    Tires for the grader are bad. Requested and was granted approval to purchase 6 new tires.
7.    Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to adjourn to lunch and inspection of rock at 12:20.  Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.

               Presiding Commissioner Ted Findley opened the afternoon session of the meeting at 4:35. Clerk Roberta Owens was attending a meeting with Governor Candidate Dave Spence. In her absence the Commission appointed Linda Brown to take minutes.

8.    Commissioner Rob Ruckman gave Clerk Owens a list of roads that were inspect. They inspected CR 249/150th Rd to look at the gravel from Schildberg Quarry. Other roads inspected include 111,119,123,124,126,135, and 281.
9.    Commissioner Rob Ruckman called Schildberg Quarry to check on gravel prices and hours of operation.
10.    Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to start hauling gravel from Watterson/Schildberg Quarry until the quality of the gravel improves at Norris Aggregate. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
11.    Commissioner Rob Ruckman made a motion to appoint Melody Hawk fro Sure-Gro to the Fixed Facility position of the Local Emergency Planning Committee Board. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
12.    Commissioner Rob Ruckman made a motion that if Mike Hall will accept he will be appointed to the Worth County Convalescent Center position of the Local Emergency Planning Committee Board. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert second. All in favor, motion carried.
13.    Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to appoint Commissioner Rob Ruckman as the Elected Official of the Local Emergency Planning Committee Board. Presiding Commissioner Ted Findley seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
14.    Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to appoint Bridget Gibson to the New Media position of the Local Emergency Planning Committee Board. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
15.    Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to adjourn at 5:20. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.

County Commission Minutes -- County Seeks to Land Chiropractor

Presiding Commissioner Findley called the meeting to order at 9:03 am.
West commissioner Dennis Gabbert was absent.
1.    Commissioner Rob Ruckman reported the gas prices as $3.299 and diesel as $3.699   
2.    Commissioner Rob Ruckman made a motion to approve the minutes and agenda. Commissioner Ted Findley seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
3.    Treasurer Linda Brown presented the weekly balance sheet, payroll, and bills.
4.    Commissioner Rob Ruckman made a motion to approve the bills. Commissioner Ted Findley seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
5.    Pat Kobbe, County EMB reported that she almost has almost completed the 1934 disaster paperwork. She explained that there are three empty seats on the LEPC Board. The commissioners should appoint the three new members. The commissioners will report back with recommendations in two weeks.
6.    Economic Developer Tammy Ueligger report: Tammy e-mailed a report that stated she was still building a master list of all businesses in the county; she is searching for a possible location for a chiropractor to come one day a week. She is also looking for a location for a small engine repair business.
7.    The commissioners called Duane Warner to come in to draw the specific area of CR 224 that they wish to close on a plat map.
8.    Jim Fletchall, Road and Bridge Foreman Report:
*    We need to add the area on CR 281 that Spainhower and Miller provided emergency gravel for to the tax rock gravel list. Also add a section on CR 116/220th Rd to the list.
*    Fletchall pointed out there was brush on the Conservation side of CR 284/Urchin Lane. The commissioners will inspect the area and try to catch the dozer operator that is working in the area.
*    There is another group of landowners south of Worth on CR 101/220th Rd and CR97/220th Rd going to get Emergency Rock to build up the road so that it will qualify for tax rock.
*    Eric Funk called and requested cost share on brush removal on CR 199/170th Rd. Commissioner Rob Ruckman made a motion to cost share with Eric Funk on brush removal on CR 199. Commissioner Ted Findley seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
9.    Commissioner Rob Ruckman made a motion to adjourn to inspect roads at 11:43. Commissioner Findley seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
Presiding Commissioner Ted Findley opened the afternoon session of the meeting at 3:00 pm.
10.    Presiding Commissioner Ted Findley signed a noxious weed letter to be sent to a landowner.
11.    Presiding Commissioner Ted Findley made a motion to adjourn at 3:15. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.

Worth County Economic Developer: Paxson's Named Business of the Month

What a blessing to be a part of Holy Week in Worth County! As you know Holy Week is the week preceding Easter each year. Holy Week was hosted at the Christian Church – a location befitting of the magnificence of His work! For one week each year, all of the churches in Worth County come together for worship. On Monday, Norman Runyon gave an inspiring account of the truth in God’s word in the Bible. Tuesday brought us the new interim Baptist pastor, Richard Lamborn.  His emphasis was putting less on SELF, an act that would beautify us all! Chuck Warner spoke to us on Wednesday about the meaning of fathom. It is difficult for most of us to fathom God’s love – to think he sacrificed His own son!  Thursday brought out the Assembly Muppets and their endeavor to sell used tombstones. (One of those things – you just had to be there!) On Good Friday, Dr. Tim Wall, Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Assessment in Education at Missouri Western State University in St Joseph delivered the message and Travis Dimmitt shared his gift of music. Tim, and wife Jenny, live in Maryville with their two children. Travis is the Principal at North Nodaway in Hopkins. Travis also lives in Maryville, with his wife Elizabeth and their two children. Both have been assisting at the Methodist Church. Travis’ rendition of “Watch the Lamb” was a moving experience! Thanks to the kind soul who offered me a Kleenex, my sleeve was getting a little soggy.  If you are not familiar with this song, find it online on YouTube. You won’t forget it for some time! This writer was so very humbled by this, it changed the essence of the Easter weekend. Don Null introduced Tim and Travis, as well as offering the recap of the week (much of which was used to jog my memory here! – thanks Don!) Don reminded everyone of a very cold Sunrise Service with Tommy Randal at the football field on Easter morning. Although I was not a part of that worship service, I can imagine the sight. Don suggested reviving this ‘collective’ Sunrise service on Easter morning. If you agree, say something to your local pastor. Our next opportunity to worship as a community of believers will be June 24 at 9 o’clock at the Sheridan City Park.  Brunch will follow services.  Hope to see you there! There are fifteen churches in Worth County. These congregations support their church family as well as the community. They continue to be prayer warriors right in our midst. Thank You! And thanks to all those who worked behind the scenes to bring Holy Week to us all!
    We have another hard working group of ladies that should be mentioned. This group is “Grant 4 Change.” Have you noticed the basketball court east of the Square? It looks wonderful! This court gets used ALOT! Another contribution to our community this group has made are the Horse Shoe Pits east of the court. On April 21, “Grant 4 Change” held a 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament and a Horse Shoe Pitching Tournament. It was a very cool and dreary day but turnout was good. Dale Findley and I played as a team. Don’t believe the tales that we are bad pitchers even though we lost 3 out of 3! Some of the competition was good and some were just darned lucky! As Mr. Findley would say, “I would rather be lucky than good any day!” If you want to brush up on your skills, meet at the pits on Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. Good, cheap fun! Their next event will be a Texas Hold ‘em Tournament at the Sale Barn on June 2. Our “Grant 4 Change” group is now working toward reviving the volleyball court at the Pool Park. They are really working for improvements for the families and youth of our community. My personal thanks to their board members (AND THEIR HUSBANDS!): Abbey Morin, Rachel Jackson, Krystal Grisham, Amber Steele and Jamie Nunguster! Keep up the good work!! You are making GREAT GRANT CHANGES!
     Our featured Business of the Month is Paxson's Welding & Tire Service (660-562-4497 OR  660-799-2512). 
This business is owned and operated by Tyler Paxson in Sheridan, MO.  Tyler offers a complete welding shop for all your ag repair needs.  In addition, he offers on-site tire repair as well as sells all major brands of new tires.  Add custom exhaust work and hydraulic hoses to that list!  Tyler has custom fabricated a well made tree puller that hooks to a skid steer or 3 point hitch assembly. His creativity has no boundary as he has also made a three point adapter with a hydraulic PTO to allow any tractor attachment mount to a skid steer.  Bale stabbers are available for three point or skid steer, both with removable tines.  Tyler is an enterprising, young family man!  He employs Montana Rush, who does a great job helping customers and welding up Tyler's creations.  At the risk of sounding like a broken record folks -- can't say it enough -- BUY LOCAL!    Local families depend on it!
   At the time of this reading, we will be literally HOURS from our very first County Market Day! There have been hours and hours put in by a number of people to create a successful market. We will have eggs, baby chicks and bedding plants for sale this Saturday! We will have bakers and candle makers! Our market will grow with your support as a buyer and/or vendor. Let’s get growing!!
   You will receive a flyer indicating our Market Schedule. Thanks to the Worth County Progress Organization and the Grant City Community Betterment for helping to make this happen! You may also receive one in the mail. SHARE IT! POST IT! TALK ABOUT IT! Not only does this flyer give you a Market Schedule but it also lists some of the events happenin’ in Worth County. There’s something going on in Worth County this summer for cowboys, pullers, golfers, poker players, savvy shoppers, EATERS and those of us just wantin’ to have a little fun!
   So until next time – ENJOY! It’s summertime in God’s country!   

Grant City to Hold Grand Opening for Pool with Free Food

The City of Grant City will have a Grand Reopening with free food and kids activities for the Grant City Pool, which is sporting a new bathhouse along with the new pool. The pool reopened Memorial Day Weekend; however, a special ceremony is being planned to mark the reopening of the pool.
Craig and Gina McNeese will once again manage the pool this year. The pool restoration project was made possible by numerous private donations and volunteers spending countless hours in order to restore the pool. At one point, the city had decided to close the pool for good and dig up the facility before learning that costs to restore the pool would not be nearly as much as expected.
Economic Developer Tammy Ueligger reported that there were 11 vendors and 75-100 customers at the initial County Market Days held May 19th at the school. The next one will be held June 2nd and there will be one held every first, third, and fifth Sunday of the month.
Ueligger reported that she plans to have two work-study students, one for the Economic Development office and one for Missouri Steel & Hose. The term will last for eight weeks and the goal is to give job experience and a sense of ownership of the community to local students.
Ueligger reported that there was a bunch of farmers markets applying for funding and that the state would allow her to resubmit the grant application on July 1st.
The council voted to have the water tower inspected to see if it needs cleaning.
Council members spent much of the meeting working out details for the Grand Reopening for the pool as well as last-minute needs for the facility as well as the Pool Park.
The next meeting will be held on June 20th at 7:00 p.m., back at its regularly scheduled time.

Worth County Farmer's Market Proposed

Calling all community members, gardeners and farmers!! We will be having an organizational meeting for “County Market Day!” on Thursday, March 1 at 6:00 pm at the Fairgrounds Building. The Market would be a farmers market and handcraft fair held on a regular basis. Tammy Ueligger, Worth County Economic Developer will facilitate the meeting to discuss and bring together those interested in starting a “market.” Any interested vendors or a producer should plan to attend. A vendor can be an individual farmer or a local artist or a non-profit group such as a 4-H clubs or FFA members. A free canvas AgriMissouri Tote Bag will be given to the first twelve vendors to register by calling Tammy at (660)254-3592. Even beginners are welcome; mentoring is available through Missouri Master Gardeners.
Often, gardeners and farmers have wished to have a market for their excess produce or thought that selling produce might mean extra money for the family budget. Ideally, the market would have fresh seasonal fruit, vegetables and possibly fresh cut flowers. Additionally, there could be home baked breads and pies or jams and jellies. In the handcrafted arena, the possibilities could include hand crafted quilts, soaps, candles and any other handcrafted items.
Hargrave Family Farms will offer honey and in the early spring, plan to have bee hives for sale for anyone interested in beekeeping as a hobby.
The market could have a mobile aspect, allowing it to be relocated to other events throughout the County. This could increase attendance for those events and, in turn, help with sales for the vendors. Imagine, dropping by and picking up some summer squash to grill and the ingredients to make a fresh salad. Dinner would practically make itself.
Creating this market is the essence of economic development~ people need to eat ~ why not buy wholesome foods grown by your friends and neighbors? This will encourage our local economy to grow by purchasing locally grown food as well as offer and opportunity for local growers to earn some money. Another aspect of shopping locally is the added benefit of eating well for health and taste. Local fresh fruits and vegetables taste better and are fresher.
Tell your neighbors and friends! This will be a great opportunity to 'get growin for Worth County'. Hope to see you there. REMEMBER -- Thursday, March 1st at 6:00 pm at the Fairgrounds Building in Grant City. FREE AgriMissouri tote bag for the first 12 to pre register by calling Tammy Ueligger at 660-254-3592.

Community Services, Economic Developer Seeking Office Space at Courthouse

(Minutes from the County Commission Meeting of September 26th)
There was a third meeting held about the CAFO issue. Chevy Davidson presented some facts and figures to the commission. Several people were in attendance to voice their opinions.
1. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion approve the agenda and minutes. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
2. Treasurer Linda Brown presented the weekly balance sheet, bills, and payroll.
3. Commissioner Rob Ruckman made a motion to approve the bills. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert seconded. All in favor, motion carried.
4. Commissioner Rob Ruckman reported the gas prices from MFA as gas $3.399 and diesel $3.759
5. Charity Austin, Economic Developer reported on EEZ progress. The Enhanced Enterprise Zone documents have been mailed off. It should be completed in about 3 weeks. She also told the commissioners that they City will no longer house the Economic Developer so they will need to provide an office space.
6. Bridget Gibson voiced concerns about old 169. She wants to know how to make it compliant for the tax rock. The commissioners told her that it would need to be narrowed, ditched, and crowned, and then base rock added to make it compliant.
7. Road and Bridge Foreman Jim Fletchall Report:
· Russell found 2 buckets to look at for the loader. Fletchall will find out more information.
· While working on CR 194 county crew found where Grand River Mutual Phone co had sliced through a tube. Fletchall will call Windstream.
· Fletchall explained a mistake that was made on CR 60. It had been designated as a bi-pass road earlier this spring so Roger Robertson the County rock hauler assumed it was all supposed to be covered with the tax rock, so he started at the wrong end and went all the way through.
· Robertson called to ask the commissioners if he was supposed to put tax rock on CR 164 since it was in the city limits of Denver. Commissioner Ruckman told him to put rock on it as it connected with the county road.
8. As set from Tax Hearing held on September 19th the levies are as follows:
Library tax levy at 0.0999.
The General Revenue Tax Levy at $.4996
General Revenue Temporary Tax Levy at $.35,
Road and Bridge Fund Tax Levy at $.4996
Special Road and Bridge Fund Tax Levy at $.3297
Senior Citizens Fund Tax Levy at $.05
9. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to adjourn for lunch at 12:00 pm. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.

Presiding Commissioner Ted Findley brought the afternoon session to order at 1:45 pm.
10. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to go into closed session with David Baird, County Attorney to discuss litigation at 1:48. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. Findley aye, Ruckman aye, Gabbert aye.
11. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to come out of closed session at 3:15 pm commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. Roll vote: Findley aye, Ruckman aye, Gabbert aye.
12. There was more discussion on available space in the courthouse, due to the budget cuts from Community Services, the Community Services office will no longer be housed in the Apblanalp building. Mary Jo Fletchall is seeking free space for her office. Ted Findley is on the Community Services board and mentioned moving the office somewhere in the courthouse also.
13. Commissioner Dennis Gabbert made a motion to adjourn at 4:56 pm. Commissioner Rob Ruckman seconded. All in favor, motion carried.