Trenton Republican-Times_4-18-24

REPUBLICAN-TIMES

Grundy County 911 System Updates

by Mark McLaughlin R-T Staff Writer

The Republican-Times will print weekly updates on the progress of installation of the County 911 system, first reported in April 11 issue, and continue to do so until the project is completed.

Good news on the issue came from the County Commissioners Meeting held Tuesday, April 16. To expedite completion of the project, the Commissioners are putting out Request for Proposals to complete the

[See 911, Page 2]

Bulldogs Take Down Undefeated PC Midgets

On April 11, 2024 the Trenton Bulldogs defeated the 14-0 Putnam County Midgets on their home field. The game was tied at four runs each at the end of the sixth inning. Putnam County took the lead in the top of the seventh after a ball got past the Trenton defense at first. The Bulldogs came back in the bottom of the seventh when the Midget's defense made errors, allowing Coach David Shockley to guide his runners through the bases and win the game by one run (see the full story and pictures on page 16 of today’s Republican-Times).

City Dealing with Setbacks to Future Planning

(Part One of Two)

by Mark McLaughlin R-T Staff Writer

Trenton City government has been dealt two setbacks in the last three weeks that force Mayor Jackie Soptic, the City Council and economic development efforts to recalibrate their planning going forward.

The City’s half-cent Economic Development sales tax failed by a ninevote margin (277-268) in the April 2 municipal election and the City Council voted down the Wage/Merit/Years of Pay Scale ordinance by a 6-2 vote in the last City Council meeting.

In the first instance, the sales tax, the purpose of it was to “ensure resources are available for specific projects that aim to improve the quality of life for our residents and visitors, maintain public safety, maintain existing public facilities, and increase Trenton’s self -sufficiency.” (source: North Central Missouri Development Alliance).

“American Pickers” to Film in Missouri

The American Pickers are excited to return to Missouri! They plan to film episodes of The History Channel hit television series throughout this area in June 2024.

[See Pickers, Page 2]

The anticipated revenue for this proposition was a projected $400,000 annually.

Mayor Jackie Soptic reflected on the initiative’s failure, and suggested any future effort would require more legwork to inform the public of the plan, and would also have to be directed towards voter turnout, which on this particular measure was just above 10 percent.

“We faced a lack of public understanding.” Soptic said. “We need to do more education, site specific projects that the funds could assist with and just overall inform/educate more.”

Soptic says that her plans are to reintroduce the measure to the council in the coming year. The nine-vote difference suggests that it isn’t an impossible hill to climb. City Administrator Ron Urton agreed with Soptic that highlighting specific projects would make a big difference.

The Mayor and Urton did collect a

pair of wins in the last City Council Meeting, in obtaining approval for both the City and Trenton Municipal Utility budgets for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The Council tied 4-4 on each vote for approval, with Soptic providing the tie-breaking vote in favor on each.

Questions about whether budgeting included any potential revenues from an anticipated passage of the sales tax, Soptic said that it did not.

“The budget reflected zero dollars from the potential ED revenue.” Soptic said. “The only thing that is jeopardized is funds for future proactive growth and development.”

Urton added, “We are very conservative on our revenue projections and did not include any anticipated revenue based on a ballot issue passing. We we would not even consider budgeting revenue until the ballot issue passes and, even then, new revenues are not collected for six months after

[See City, Page 2]

Briefs...

Arrest Correction

In the April 11 edition of the Republican-Times, it was erroneously reported that Matthew M. Krohn, Associate Circuit Court Judge, was arrested March 11. The paragraph should read:

Zachary Randall Wilmes, 23, of Laredo, was arrested on March 11, 2024 on charges of Felony D Possession of a Controlled Substance, precipitating a probation violation. He was ordered held on a $25,000 cash only bond and assigned an April 11, 2024 court date.

Our apologies to Judge Krohn, who was listed on the court document as the assigned judge in the case, NOT the Defendant.

Laredo Alumni Reunion

Laredo Alumni will hold their annual school reunion on Saturday, May 4 at the Laredo R-VII School. Doors will be open from 3-7 p.m. with a catered meal to be served at 5 p.m. Anyone who attended or worked at the school, past or present, is invited to attend. There is no charge for the meal and reservations are not necessary, but it is requested that anyone planning to attend please call Linda Urich at 660-654-3035, Marlene Engleman at 660359-7674, Kay Thomas at 573-219-1038 or Kathy Waits at 660-654-0799 so that proper preparations may be made.

Annual Grundy R-V Banquet

The 102nd Annual Galt Grundy R-V Banquet will be held Saturday, May 11 at the Grundy R-V High School gym in Galt. Doors open for registration at 5 p.m. with the meal to be served at 6 p.m. The meal will be catered by Big Bill’s of Hamilton.

This year’s theme will be “Yesterday Once More”. Keepsake photographs will be taken from 5-7 p.m., with the program to start at 7. The Senior class of 2024 will be recognized, along with those whose graduating year ends in four or nine. They will have an opportunity to give their class response and memories. Trivia questions and “Name That Tune” will round out the evening.

The cost of the meal is $23, with reservations to be made by calling the school at 660-673-6511, between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. The first 125 reservations will be given a discount. All alumni, family, and friends are invited to attend.

Gov. Parson to Visit NCMC

Governor Mike Parson is scheduled to visit North Central Missouri College Main Campus in Trenton on Wednesday, April 24. During his visit, he will see the construction of the new Dr. Neil and Susanne Nuttall Student Center, visit with students and staff, and hold a public book signing event for his commemorative biography “No Turnin’ Back”. The public book signing will begin at 2:15 pm at Cross Hall first floor lobby located at 1324 Cedar in Trenton. The public is invited to attend the public book signing event.

New Exhibit at NCMC Dorris Rider Art Gallery

A collection of paintings continues the 2023-2024 exhibition schedule in the Dorris Rider Art Gallery at North Central Missouri College in Trenton. “When the Marigold Met the Moon” by Jennifer Bricker-Pugh is now open and runs through Friday, May 17.

Bright, bold colors, loose line work, and references to nature are the primary characteristics of Jennifer’s work. Her abstract paintings embody a playful yet thought-provoking quality that makes viewers want to know and see more.

Jennifer said, “My color palette creates a synergy of soft and vi-

brant hues that allow viewers to escape into a brilliant world. Here, they can explore each piece and create their own narrative based on my imagery.”

The title of each artwork also gives a hint at Jennifer’s mindset while creating individual paintings.

“The titles are typically the first thing I think of after finishing a piece,” she said. “I like to think of my paintings as visual poetry and name them accordingly. It’s a really fun part of the process.”

“I’ve been familiar with Jenny’s work for several years, and have always been impressed by her use of

color,” said Gallery Director Jim Norris. “Viewers will notice the influence of Abstract Expressionists such as Mark Rothko and Willem de Kooning, as well as Jean-Michel Basquiat. But those inspirations are just the starting point for a painting style that’s very much her own.”

Jennifer resides in Overland Park, KS, and works out of her studio in Mission, KS. She is represented by Leopold Gallery and Cerbera Gallery and is an active member of the arts community in and around the Kansas City metro

Old Glory flying at Five Points

R-T Photo/Libby Endicott

911

• From Front Page •

two existing repeater building structures at Mockingbird Hill in Crowder Park and the Laredo Water Tower site. The Commissioners will instead construct “phone box” enclosures on polls at the Spickard and Galt sites.

The purpose of the RFP is to procure electrical service to each unit and provide a lean-to shelter for the two phone box sites.

The action will not require the framing or pouring of concrete, and should save the County some

City

it passes.”

money on the original allocation.

Most importantly, the “911” system is off the table and in motion towards completion.

A Report from the Grundy County Treasurer indicated that of the additional $600,000 allocated from the County Ambulance Fund to the 911 fund, $498,360.80 was spent on the equipment in 2022 and another $30,741.45 was spent in 2023. That leaves the appropriated monies towards the “911” system a remaining balance of $70,897.75 before exhausting funds.

Lincoln Days Dinner Classic Retail Politics...and Great Food!

by Mark McLaughlin R-T Staff Writer

Over 160-Republicans from seven counties attended Saturday’s Lincoln Days Dinner at the NCMC Ketcham Center, for food, fun and passionate speeches from candidates for state and federal office.

Grundy County Central Committee Chairwoman Becky McDonald welcomed the attendees with a shoutout to Jeff Smith of Great Western Dining for the catered brisket and barbecue dinner.

what was right) in moving the agenda of my constituents,” Christensen said. “I chose to sleep well.”

Christensen spoke of her time in the Legislature as “the greatest honor of my life”, and spoke to her faith in Christ, and how she challenged and challenges her peers to consider that as they work for constituents.

state income tax cut in Missouri History (HB 2540), was passed, sending relief to Missouri Taxpayers.

Eigel laid out his agenda for election, noting a promise to abolish Missouri’s property tax, and stating, “You shouldn’t have to pay rent for the crime of owning a car, and paying for it year after year.”

Jefferson City Swamp, and the deliver the big red Republican wins that we’re all desperate for.”

In a nutshell, the ED initiative would have provided resources for the City to tap in “priming the pump” in economic development planning. Lacking the funds, those entities will operate from the status quo.

While the efforts of both city leaders on the wage/merit/years of service pay scale went unfulfilled, both noted that the projected pay scale did not build budgeting salaries based on that model.

“There were no salaries based on the passage of the sales tax,” Soptic said. “The implementation of the schedule would have cost the city $60,000, which was included in the budget passed by my tie-breaking vote.”

“The city has a little

Exhibit

• From Front Page •

• From Front Page • area.

There will be a reception for the artist on Saturday, April 20, from 6:00-7:30 pm in the gallery. Drinks and snacks will be available to the public.

over $3 million in reserve and for at least the last five years, revenue has outpaced the projected revenue at the beginning of each fiscal year.”

In other words, due to conservative budget practices and responsible spending, the City has done better financially than projected for the last five years.

Urton did note that, “there was a line item for proposed salary increases for each department, but at the department level, not at an individual employee level.”

“These funds will not be used until the council gives further direction,” Urton concluded.

In Part Two of this series, the “autopsy” on the Wage/Merit/Years of Service Scale, and what lessons were learned, will continue and be concluded.

For more information, please get in touch with Norris at 660-357-6345 or by email at jnorris@mail.ncmissouri.e du. The Rider Art Gallery is located in the Frey Administrative Center on the NCMC campus. Regular hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, as well as selected weekend and evening hours by appointment.

She noted her committee “helpers” in Dr. J.A. Keuhn and wife Chris, and others who stepped up to plan and execute the day’s festivities.

Retail politics was the order of the day, with candidates Bill Eigel for Governor, Denny Hoskins for Secretary of State and current Representative Mazzie Boyd Christensen headlining the day’s speakers.

A consistent “Freedom Caucus” theme was heard throughout, with an emphasis on the SAFE Act, aimed at stopping gender-transition counseling and surgery, discussion on border issues, voting machines and paper ballots, and in Senator Eigel’s case particularly, advocating for the abolishment of county property taxes.

Rep. Christensen keynoted the day by speaking to attendees on “big swing” bills she has brought to the legislature designed to get Jefferson City Republicans to take a stand on and support the “family values” issues so important to many Republican voters.

“We have an important responsibility to elect Republicans willing to do the hard things,” Christensen said. “We need to ask the questions nobody else is asking, and then go to work on the results.”

“When I went to Jeff City, I needed to make a decision on whether or not I wanted to eat well (go along to get along) or sleep well (knowing I’d done

Pickers

• From Front Page

•

“American Pickers” is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique “picking” on The History Channel. The hit show follows skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques. They are always excited to find historically significant or rare items, in addition to

In a true pep rally moment designed to inspire, Christensen delivered when she told the group, “We are not here to awaken sheep, we’re here to awaken lions.”

“The days of bipartisanship are over,” Christensen said. “Twenty years ago, we could be talking about tax policy, or infrastructure, but now we’re talking about gender transition surgery, for which there is no middle ground.”

The message took. Christensen challenged the audience to get involved, and said, “You don’t have to be elected to be in the fight.”

Representatives for incumbent U.S. Senator Josh Hawley and Sam Graves spoke, with Hawley’s staff representative, Joe Mackin, delivering a message to the group from Hawley.

“The Senator says that we are far past the time where we focus on national strength, national interest and the interest of Americans first,” Mackin said. “Senator Hawley will continue to lead the fight on that front.”

“The politics of this race place nationalists versus globalists, which seek to turn America into the rest of the world,” Mackin said. “With Senator Hawley’s leadership, we can and will take our country back.”

Senator Bill Eigel sounded a very “Freedom Caucus” voice in making his case to the audience, noting his “family legacy” of military service in the Air Force, and a conservative, America First voice in the Legislature.

Behind Eigel’s leadership, the largest single year

unforgettable characters and their collections.

As they hit the back roads from coast to coast, the Pickers are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten relics. Along the way, they want to meet characters with amazing stories and fun items. They hope to give historically significant objects a new lease on life while learning a thing or two about America’s past along the way.

Channeling Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Texas Governor Greg Abbot, Eigel said on Day One he would declare an invasion of Missouri’s border by illegal immigrants. Eigel said that 70,000 illegals were already in the state, and that he would pursue a policy of “Detain and Deport.”

Eigel took a strong position on the sale of state lands to foreign interests, and specifically to China. Eigel said we would push to end the practice of foreign purchase of Missouri real estate assets and suggested taking back “every square inch” of Missouri property owned by foreign interests, suggesting a forced divestiture of these assets, along the lines of Federal legislation aimed at separating social media platform Tik Tok, from it’s Chinese Communist Party ownership ground.

Eigel pledged to defund all DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) programs in Missouri State Government, programs he said only contribute to racial division and conflict in the country.

Eigel acknowledges that he is considered an underdog in the Governor’s race that includes Republican blue-blood legacy Jay Ashcroft, the current Secretary of State, and son of former Governor, Senator and Bush-43 Attorney General John Ashcroft.

“America was built on underdogs overcoming,” Eigel said. “I’m not discouraged by this challenge, and we’ll work to win the confidence of Missouri voters every day, and to bring a reckoning to the

The Pickers have seen a lot of rusty gold over the years and are always looking to discover something they’ve never seen before. They are ready to find extraordinary items and hear fascinating tales about them.

The “American Pickers” TV Show is looking for leads and would love to explore your hidden treasure. If you or someone you know has a unique item, story to tell, and is

Senator Denny Hoskins, a Warrensburg resident, delivered a short set of remarks on his agenda in running for Secretary of State. Hoskins began with a ringing endorsement for Representative Christensen, a fellow Missouri Freedom Caucus member who he called a “firebrand”, shaking things up in Jefferson City.

Hoskins pointed to his endorsement by the Missouri Right to Life group, and highlighted efforts by abortion activists to get petition signatures for an abortion proposition on the ballot in November.

He cautioned voters to “Decline to Sign” and to make sure they read any petition that was put before them, before signing it.

Hoskins came out to support day of voting in the state of Missouri, paper ballots, and ensuring that “only citizens exercise the right to vote.”

“I don’t trust voting machines,” Hoskins said, hinting that some changes in existing Missouri voting law are on the horizon. Hoskins also noted the oversight of the Secretary of State’s office over public libraries, and vowed to seek the defunding of any library – public or public children’s – that purchased and shelved sexually explicit or age-inappropriate books on the shelves.”

The audience also heard from a representative for Congressman Sam Graves’ campaign and from Freddy Peterson, a grass roots candidate for the position, primarying Graves this August.

Candidates for Third Circuit Associate Judge, Steven Hudson and Matt Krohn rounded out the day’s speakers.

Following the candidate speeches, an auction for campaign items was held to end the day on a high note.

ready to sell…we would love to hear from you!

Please note, the Pickers DO NOT pick stores, flea markets, malls, auction businesses, museums, or anything open to the public.

If interested, please send us your name, phone number, location, and description of the collection with photos to: americanpickers@cineflix.com or call (646) 4932184 or on facebook: @GotAPick

Art’s Alive Presents “The Hiding Place”

Art’s Alive will present “The Hiding Place” the Musical on Thursday, June 6, 2024 at 7 p.m. at the Trenton Performing Arts Center. “The Hiding Place” is the story of Corrie ten Boom, a Christian woman, who joined the Dutch Resistance to the Nazi Occupation of the Netherlands during WWII. Corrie grew up in a home of faith. She read the Bible daily with her parents, siblings, and aunts. The family prayed. Corrie was the first female watchmaker in the Netherlands and helped her father in the family watchmaking business.

During the German occupation of the Netherlands, Corrie and her family did what they could to help Jewish people in their town of Haarlem and the surrounding area. In May 1942, a well-dressed woman came to the ten Booms with a suitcase. She had heard that the family had helped their Jewish neighbors and hoped they could help her too. Casper ten Boom, Corrie’s father said, “In this household, God’s people are always welcome.” After that, the family became actively involved in the resistance, hiding refugees and working to keep them alive. The ten Booms built a secret room in their home to hide their guests and had a warning system in place that would alert their friends of danger.

“The Hiding Place”, Corrie ten Boom’s most famous book, tells what happened to Corrie, her sister Betsie, and the rest of her family during WWII. The story was published in 1974 and has sold millions of copies. It is considered a Christian Classic. This musical, by Stephen Joseph Burke, tells the story through uplifting and powerful songs that capture the essence of Corrie’s love for the Savior during difficult times.

Shining Light Players, a Christian Theater group from Pensacola, FL, will perform the musical.

Tickets are on sale now at Trenton Hy-Vee. Cost for $10 for adults and $5 for students. This is one night only! You won’t want to miss it!

Life Options Green Hills Announces Expansion to Bethany

Anticipating a Fall 2024 opening, Life Options will soon offer services in Bethany, in addition to the current Trenton location. Operating under a new brand ‘Life Options: Sexual Wellness | Informed Choices | Education,’ the life-saving ministry will offer the same services currently offered at its Trenton location. While the services offered will likely roll out in phases, initial services could include medical grade pregnancy tests, options counseling, limited first-trimester ultrasounds, as well as STD/STI testing and treatment. All services will be free of charge and offered in a safe, confidential, judgment-free atmosphere. Trained, licensed medical personnel will be utilized in the new medical facility.

Life Options is a safe place to explore options regarding pregnancy or answers about sexual health. The ministry will provide compassionate, limited medical care for women and men facing a difficult pregnancy decision. Additionally, free and confidential services will be provided to women and men regardless of income, marital status, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or any decision made in regard to pregnancy. Life Options will focus on meeting the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of women and men facing both planned and unplanned pregnancies. The ministry understands that unplanned situations can be overwhelming and desires for the residents of Bethany and the neighboring communities to find Life Options as a trusted source with answers to difficult questions.

Life Options exists to encourage individuals to explore options and make life affirming choices concerning pregnancy and sexual health through compassionate care, education, evangelism and mentorship. Life Options vision remains to provide professional and honest services to those facing pregnancy decisions and decisions about sexual health.

Life Options is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization depending solely on individual donations and private grants. Persons wishing to partner with Life Options through giving should contact the ministry by calling or texting 660.358.1378 or by emailing lifeoptionsgreenhills@ gmail.com. Anyone wishing to be considered for personnel needs such as part-time office and medical staff or serve as a volunteer should contact the Trenton location by calling or texting 660.358.1378 or by emailing lifeoptionsgreenhills@gmail.com.

An individual having need for Life Options services prior to the opening of the Bethany location should reach out to the Trenton location by calling or texting 660.358.1378 or by emailing lifeoptionsgreenhills@gmail.com.

DAILY RECORD

CIRCUIT COURT

Associate Division

Judge Carrie Lamm Clark

In State vs. Nicole E. Baker, charged with Misdemeanor A Passing Bad Check, the defendant failed to appear. A bench warrant was issued for her arrest and bond was set at $462.50.

In State vs. Jason Lee

Herwehe, arrested for Operating Motor Vehicle Owned By Another Knowing Owner Of Vehicle Has Not Maintained Financial Responsibility, Herwehe entered a guilty plea and was fined $50.50 by the court. On a second charge of Operate Vehicle on Highway without a License-1st Offense, the defendant entered a guilty plea and was fined $50.50 by the court.

In State vs. Hugo Morales-Cruz , the defendant, charged with one count of Felony B Assault-2nd Degree-Special Victim, one count of Felony D Assault2nd Degree,l one count of Misdemeanor B Peace Distrubance, First Offense, one count of Misdemeanor A Resisting/Interfering with Arrest, Detention or Stop and one count of Misdemeanor D Minor Visibly Intoxicated/Blood Alcohol Content More Than .02%.

On Count 2 - Defendant sentenced to 10 Days Jail, Count 3 - Defendant sentenced to 10 Days Jail, Count 4 - Defendant sentenced to 10 Days Jailcredit for time served on each count. Defendant remanded to sheriff's custody to be detained awaiting ICE to pick up for deportation. Court costs are waived.

In State vs. Chas Allen Pittman, charged with Misdemeanor B Exceeded Posted Speed Limit (Exceeded by 20-25 mph), the defendant entered a guilty plea. A payment review hearing was set for July 23, 2024 to adjudi-

cate an assessed fine of $155.50 by the court.

In State vs. Jerry Lee Seward, charged with Felony D-Tampering with a Motor Vehicle, and an associated Misdemeanor B-Trespass in the 1st Degree, On the Court's own motion, case is hereby continued to 06-252024 at 9:00 a.m. to allow for Department of Mental Health to file their findings and report. SO ORDERED. (CLC)

In State vs. Lloyd Wayne Shaver, charged with Felony D Forgery, the defendant entered a guilty plea. The Defendant sentenced to 7 Years Doc, suspended execution of sentence, and 5 Years of Probation. Defendant to pay $300.00 to LERF within 6 months, $375.00 in restitution, and pay all costs. Defendant is to have no contact with victim.

In State vs. Ashley Nicole Wilson, charged with Misdemeanor A Violation of Order of Protection for Adult, the defendant entered a guilty plea. Grundy County Sheriff files incarceration expense in the amount of $760.00. Court reviews same and takes no action and orders same to be filed.

REAL ESTATE

Timothy McCombs and wife to Josiah Sellers

Ronald Herrin et al to Charles Jr. King, Trustee

Larry Allen Properties, LLC to Donald Werner

Mossdown Farms, LLC to Indian Creek Farms, LLC

Doris M. Provorse to Kenneth R. Young and Wife

Timothy Seely and wife to Harry G. Kately

Harry G. Kately to Roger Des Roches

MARRIAGE DISSOLUTIONS

Petitions Filed

Ryan Crawley vs. Emma Crawley

Petitions Granted

Tyler Willey vs. Paige Willey

Two Facing Charges Here

Ashton Chad Arndt, 22, of Gallatin, was arrested in Harrison County on April 9, 2024 on a Capias Warrant for Arrest (Probation Violation) on a previous charge of Felony E Unlawful Use of Weapon - Subsection 4 - exhibiting, dating back to January 8 of 2023. Arndt is being held in the Grundy County Jail on a $25,000 cash only bond, and had a court date April 11, 2024 in the courtroom of Judge Steven D. Hudson.

Caleb Scott Kinnison, 19, of Gallatin, was arrested April 15, 2024 on a

warrant for arrest (probation violation) tied to multiple Felony charges dating back to May of 2022, including Felony E Resisting/Interfering with arrest for a felony, Felony D Receiving Stolen Property, Felony D Tampering with a Motor Vehicle-1st Degree, a Misdemeanor B charge for DWI and a Misdemeanor A charge for Operating a Motor Vehilce in a Careless and Imprudent Manner, involving an accident. Kinnison will appear in the court of Judge Steven D. Hudson on May 16, 2024.

OBITUARIES

Martha Ellen Barto

Martha Ellen Barto, a 71-year-old Trenton resident, passed away at 8:16 a.m., Sunday April 14, 2024 at the Kansas City Hospice House.

She is to be cremated under the direction of Slater-Neal Funeral Home, with a celebration to be held at a later date.

Martha Ellen Barto was born November 12, 1952 in Cleveland, OH to Robert Dale Wright and Mary Ellen Bussey. Martha was an LPN and worked as a nursing home administrator and did compliance and closure of nursing homes from locally to Kansas City and St. Louis areas.

Surviving relatives include her daughters, Mary Hagan of Kansas City, MO and Lisa Barto of Califor-

Barbara Lou Young Green was born May 3, 1928 in Moberly, MO, the daughter of Gussie Alliene Brooks Young and Moss Juhl Young. In 1944, she was married to Donald Wayne Skinner and to that marriage three children were born: Leslie Wayne, Alliena Ann, and Mel Alan. In 1964, she was married to John H. Curry and to that marriage one son, James Stephen was born. In 1985 with her marriage to Shannon Lee Green, a blended family was formed with the addition of Shannon Lee Green Jr. and Kathy Sue Green Karr.

In 1971, after a move from Greeley, CO, Trenton became home. Barbara was an active member of First Baptist Church, Trenton, having served as secretary/treasurer in a volunteer and subsequently paid capacity since 1977. She retired as church secretary/treasurer in 1998.

Barbara is survived by children and their spouses: Les and Rhonda Skinner of Marion, KY, Alliena Taylor of Joplin, MO, Mel and

Martha Ellen Barto

nia; a son, Chester Barto III of Milan, MO; a sister Lura Meyers of Eddyville, IA; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Online condolences may be left at www.resthavenmort.com

Nancy Skinner of Marthasville, MO, Steve and Cassi Curry of Bentonville, AR, Shannon and Diane Green of Gladstone, MO, and Allan and Kathy Karr of Edmond, OK, 20 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were her parents, a brother and sister who died in infancy, ex-spouse Don Skinner, spouses John Curry and Shannon Green, grandchildren Jodi McCaskill and Cody Robinson, great-grandchildren Benjamin and Linus Gilbert, and son-in-law Charles Taylor. A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 20, 2024 at the First Baptist Church in Trenton. Inurnment will be at a later date in Resthaven Memorial Gardens of Trenton. Memorial donations are suggested to the First Baptist Church in lieu of flowers and may be mailed to Slater-Neal Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be left at www.resthavenmort.com

LIBRARY DIRECTOR WANTED

The Grundy County-Jewett Norris Library is currently seeking qualified applicants for the position of Library Director

Barbara Lou Young Green

Chalk Talk

Two years ago, just before the Dobbes case overturned the 1973 Abortion case of Roe vs. Wade, it was announced that since Roe’s inception, more than 63,000,000 babies had been terminated by abortion between 1973 and 2021.

That number is remarkable in that it matches the number of people murdered by Josef Stalin in his 30 years as Communist dictator of the Soviet Union between 1923 and 1953.

The Right to Life versus the Right to Choice has been the wedge in creating one of America’s most divisive cultural issues.

Republicans claim the ground of protecting human life from conception, arguing for a “protected group” of people who have no voting power, no political voice, and no advocacy. Democrats claim that abortion is a matter of “women’s health” that is to be kept between a woman and her doctor, and assumes that a fetus is not a person until birth.

Over the past fifty years, one of the battlegrounds on this issue has been federal funding of abortion through Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers. Pro-Lifers have protested this issue in front of those clinics for decades, while Pro-Choicers have shown their anger towards pre-natal pregnancy planning clinics, which promote adoption as the better choice.

An interesting part of Planned Parenthood’s history is that the founder, Margaret Sanger, a eugenicist and overt racist, promoted abortion clinics as a backdoor way to control minority populations, specifically African Americans.

The geographical placement of Planned Parenthood clinics are not an accident. In many urban areas, they are placed in minority, distressed neighborhoods that provide the easiest access to people seeking an abortion.

R-T Writer Responds to Recent Letter

Editors Note: The following is a response from R-T Staff Writer Mark McLaughlin to a letter from Rick Neff in the April 11, 2024 edition of the Republican-Times. My Democratic friend Rick Neff sent a letter to the paper this past week on my column that appeared in the April 4 edition of the Republican-Times. I appreciate dissenting views. At least you were interested enough to take issue with what I said. Thanks for that.

A study published two years ago made a stunning statistical discovery. Of every 1,000 black children to be born, 459 of those pregnancies would end in abortion. Of every 1,000 white children to be born, 145 of those pregnancies would end in abortion. The numbers suggest cultural differences, but no attempt to attribute those one way or another will be made here.

Democrats are concluded to have stymied the 2022 MidTerm expected “red wave” by the placement of abortion propositions on state election ballots.

A proposition limiting abortion in red-state Kansas failed with 69 percent of Kansans voting against the proposition, inaccurately presented to them as a “total ban” on abortion by Democratic campaigners, TV and radio talking heads, and others.

Democrats are working to “gin up” similar propaganda campaigns on this in multiple states, as a driver of people to the polls to vote down the propositions, and vote up the Democratic ticket.

Among those states with these issues on the ballot is Missouri.

In an April 13 USA Today article written by Michael Collins and David Jackson, abortion is considered the Democrats best winning issue, given the flying dumpster fire they face with border security, 21 percent inflation over three years, and one foreign policy train wreck after another.

Collins and Jackson summarize Joe Biden’s position this way: “Biden has set his personal beliefs aside and supported the right to choose to end a pregnancy. Now the incumbent president, he is leading the charge to write reproductive freedom protections into federal law,” the authors say.

While Democrats more towards the center would lean towards a 15-week ban on abortion, the most Progressive of Democrats favor unlimited access to abortion - up to the date of birth.

Former North Carolina Governor Ralph Northam suggested several years ago that parents could choose to let a baby die after birth, be it their choice.

That was a bridge too far for most, but the greater extremes of the position are finding traction again. Biden is running on a promise to codify the provisions of Roe vs, Wade into federal law.

Donald Trump, an ostensible pro-lifer himself, realizes that a 15-week ban, a 6-week ban, or a total ban on abortion is not a winning issue for Republicans. While the “truest be-

lievers” in the right to life are not happy with it, Trump came out this past week with a position that many on the right hate, many on the left hate, but which may, in the culture and passionate climate of beliefs on the issue, be the practical solution…for now, and an electable, defensible position for Republicans..

Collins and Jackson put Trump’s position this way: “Yet earlier this week, he (Trump) angered anti-abortion activists by saying individual states should set their own restrictions on a woman’s right to choose and later announcing that he would not sign a national abortion ban if given a second term.”

I always believed if a politician said something that angered the fringes of both sides of an issue, that there was something “righteous” about the position. When I hear about nibbling at the extremes from both sides, I pay attention to the proposition.

Trump’s policy pronouncement got out ahead of the Democratic blitz to come that Trump wants a full ban.

In his heart of hearts, he may.

The reality is, Trump has realized that if Democrats believe so fervently that this is an issue between a woman and her doctor, then the sentiments of that which vary 180-degrees depending on the state you live in, should be decided at the state and local level, a truly Federalist pronouncement that keeps the Federal Government out of it.

Ronald Reagan and Tip O’Neill were beer drinking buds back in the 1980’s. They worked together across the aisle in the classic art of compromise. Reagan was often quoted as saying that he would rather have “70 percent of what I want and give a little, rather than 0 percent of 100 percent of what I want, and accomplish nothing.”

I believe Trump’s move this week demonstrated some keen political savvy. Since Biden and Kamala Harris’ response has been to say, “He lies” and that he will sign a nationwide ban if he gets the chance, it is a day late/dollar short.

They clearly didn’t see it coming, and it’s reasonableness comes down to this – if you can’t get into the office, have a working majority of 60 votes in the Senate and at least 25seats in the House, getting anything substantive done on any issue is difficult.

This issue will be a great divider for voters in this election. But Trump has said this, “Let the states decide.”

It’s the right pitch, it’s moderate, and it’s reasonable. And it takes a major Democratic issue directly off the table.

Dodging Deadlines Often Leads to Bad Policies: The Census of Agriculture and the Farm Bill

by Darvin Bentlage Missouri Farmer and Missouri Rural Crisis Center Member

My Dad was a “man’s man” that I could spend a lifetime trying to measure up to and fall short. If I tried to judge you by his standard, I’d need to classify the results.

Keep it coming…I’ll accept all fire for what I write. But keep it above the belt.

But invoking my dead father…Not classy, not even pithy, just middle schoolish, Rick. You’d do better to take me on than my Dad. You would disappear in his towering shadow. He was a giant of a man in integrity, contribution to his community and how he loved and cared for my Mom and how he raised me to do the same. He would have printed your letter as well, without reservation, but I’m guessing the two of you would have talked and arrived at an understanding.

Reader Concerned Over Road Conditions

Most of you have seen recent stories on European farmers’ organizing for better prices by blocking highways and business districts with their tractors. Older farmers might remember the 1979 Tractorcade by American farmers demanding “parity”, meaning farmers should get paid the cost of production (what it costs to raise a crop) plus a living wage.

That protest in 1979 drew attention to the problem but did little to alleviate it. What followed was the 80’s Farm Crisis culminating in 1985, known as “the year of farm foreclosures”. Subsequent Farm Bills did little to protect farmers’ ability to get paid a living wage and simply exist, as they abandoned the last remaining vestige of supply management programs, leaving farmers at the mercy of volatile commodity markets and years of low prices.

interests of their clients, multinational corporations.

The recent release of the 2022 Census of Agriculture (which comes out every 5 years) revealed the negative consequences of bad Farm Bills. For the first time in history, the U.S. has less than 2 million farms. The U.S. lost over 140,000 farms and over 150,000 cattle operations from 20182022. Missouri alone lost 10,000 cattle operations (from 53,497 to 43,543). In the last 15 years, 20,000 Missouri cattle farmers have gone out of business.

choose (read “gamble”) between two different crop insurance programs, Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC). You choose wrong, you might lose the farm.

An inspector from MODOT

overlay on the highway has holes on its surface-too many to count. West of Trenton, beginning between Gallatin and Jamesport and continuing to Trenton, the highway appears to be of a different material. It has ridges and traffic pathways cut into it.

Farm Bills from the 80’s to the present day have failed in many aspects to stabilize commodity markets and have forced taxpayers to shoulder the cost with safety net programs designed to benefit corporate agribusiness, factory farms and processing industries. Lobbyists wrote these Farm Bills to protect and enhance the

As the agriculture industry becomes more concentrated and corporatized, the loss of family farms has accelerated. From livestock production where four corporations control 85 percent of the U.S. beef industry and four corporations control over 70 percent of U.S. pork production to grain production where 75 percent of seeds are controlled by four companies, our current corporate centralized system has left small and medium farms struggling to survive in the U.S. and around the world.

Most of the Farm Bill talk in ag media and on Capitol Hill is calling for a virtual copy of the 2018 Farm Bill, which, for commodity crops, is essentially a taxpayer supported insurance bill, where farmers have to

Instead, Farm Bills should work to make it a real free market system, for the benefit of producers, consumers and our environment. Farm Bills need to address the oversupply and consistent low prices in commodity markets by bringing back a supply management system for grain with a farmer owned grain reserve. Farm Bills need to stop the ability of the four beef packers to use forward contracts to distort the cattle prices below the true value of our cattle. Farm Bills should bring back mandatory country of origin labeling (COOL) for meat, so consumers can know where their food comes from. Farm Bills need to stop literally funding the industrialization, corporate and now foreign takeover of the U.S. livestock industry. There’s a start.

Congress is dragging their feet yet again, and one thing we know: waiting until the last minute to adopt a Farm Bill will lead to a continuation of lousy farm and food policies and accelerate the loss of farms even faster than the last 5 years.

Laredo News

Carol Wilford

Last week while in Trenton, Carol Wilford decided to stop and visit a friend and fellow Laredo Lion Club member, Martha Owen. She is formerly from the Spickard area, but now lives at the Plaza Hotel Apartments. Martha showed Carol the newlyadded back stairway. The original, very-narrow stairway in the foyer is blocked off and not usable. Carol saw the piano near the picture window of the hotel and couldn’t resist playing it.

At 3:30 p.m., on Wednesday, April 10, Dan Wilford attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Student Center for NCMC. At 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 11, a cooking class for the Friends and Family of the Developmentally Disabled was held at the BTC Bank. Dan Wilford was among those who helped the

group make pizzas, as well as a cookie dough/chocolate chip/marshmallow dessert. Throughout the week, Dan also helped with the annual Friends of the Library Book Sale, which was held on the third floor of the Jewett Norris Library in the theater area.

Dan and Carol Wilford drove to Kansas City, KS, on Saturday, April 13, to the home of Lisandro and Mary Gonzalez. An April birthday celebration was held for Sammy Gonzalez, age 14; Andrew Gonzalez, age 10; and for John Wilford, age 47. Lisandro was in charge of all the meat grilling, while those who attended brought various foods to add to the meal. Those attending were Steve and Naomi Campbell of Marshall; Halley Campbell of Warrensburg; Josh Tucker of Alma; and John and Ingrid Wilford of Lee’s Summit.

Shakespearean Circle Finishes

“The Merchant of Venice” Study

The Shakespearean Circle met on Wednesday, April 10 at 1:30 pm at the Activity Center of the First Christian Church in Trenton. Members in attendance included Amy White, Susan Engelmann, Sarah Dannar and Terry Cobb.

Following the business meeting, Sarah Dannar introduced Act V of “The Merchant of Venice” and wrapped up a few points about Shakespeare’s over-

all writing of the play. She noted how the tone of this last act did not mesh well with the remainder of the play. However, the act served to tie up the loose ends of the subplots. Members viewed a video of Act V and discussed study questions.

The next meeting of the Shakespearean Circle will be the Annual Spring Luncheon on Wednesday, April 24 at 11 am at The Boji Stone in Chillicothe.

Rotarians Hear About Activities of the City

Activities involving the city of Trenton was the topic of a program presented at the Thursday, April 11 meeting of the Trenton Rotary Club, held at the BTC Bank community room. Jackie Soptic presided at the meeting and Joe MacDonald gave the prayer and was the sergeant at arms.

Program Chairman Doug Tye introduced City Administrator Ron Urton and Building Inspector Wes Barone, who told about some of the activities in which they are involved as city officials. Urton, who has been the city administrator and Trenton Municipal Utilities director since 2016, said he works with 10 different department heads to insure operations of the city run smoothly. He talked about several city projects, including the city’s asphalt plant, which will begin operations this week. The city anticipates selling at least 30,000 tons of asphalt this year as well as generating asphalt for its

own use. The city is currently working with NCMC on its student activities construction project and is working on the design phase of a project that will result in a sidewalk being built from Fourth Street to the Dollar General on the west side of town. The city received a grant to help pay for that project and has applied for a second grant to do sidewalks in the area of 16th Street and the high school. Other projects include bidding out construction of new hangars at the airport, of which 90 percent of the cost is being paid for with federal funding; winterization of the city-owned electric generators; upgrades to the electric distribution system; and continued use of the fire training facility on 17th Street.

Barone shared information about the city’s building code department, of which he began to work with as an assistant building inspector in 2012 before becoming the building inspec-

tor in 2019. As the building inspector, Barone works with inspection of rental properties and is assisted by the fire department. He also does inspection of new construction/remodeling projects, including review of plans, which he noted includes review by all city department heads so that city regulations and safety concerns are addressed. He is also responsible for building permits; the city sidewalk program, which provides funding to pay for the concrete for new sidewalk construction/replacement; the city demolition program, which helps property owners get dilapidated structures torn down; and the nuisance program. He said the airport is also part of the building code department and that his job includes making sure the runway is in working shape as well as pricing and ordering fuel and taking care

of hangars and hangar rental.

During the business meeting, it was announced shoes for the Shoes for Orphan Souls project will be packed prior to the April 18 meeting, with the shoes being picked up later that day. The club has collected 100 pair of shoes for the Orphan Souls project, which is a District 6040 project, as well as collected over $1,500 that will be donated to the Bright Futures Trenton shoe project. Available club members were also asked to meet at 11 am on April 25 to help pack snack sacks for members of the Trenton Middle School track team, which will be distributed to the students later that day.

The program for the April 18 meeting will be presented by Pastor Lori Kiehl of the First Christian Church. Dan Wilford is the program chairman.

FRIDAY

Church Women United Thrift Shop, 17th & Harris, noon to 4 p.m.

Green Hills Alcoholics Anonymous, Tenth Street Baptist Church, 6 p.m. For more information, call 359-2704.

North 65 Center: Line Dancers, 9:30 a.m.; Cards, 12:30 p.m.

SATURDAY

Church Women United Thrift Shop, 17th & Harris, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

SUNDAY

Narcotics Anonymous, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 4 p.m.

MONDAY Green Hills Alcoholics Anonymous, Tenth Street Baptist Church, 6 p.m. For more information, call 359-2704 or 3572367.

Grundy County Health Department, WIC Services by appointment, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Checks, walk-in, 9 a.m. to noon.

MI Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 2901 Hoover Drive, 7 p.m.

North 65 Center: Line Dancers, 9:30 a.m.; Cards, 12:30 p.m.

TUESDAY

Trenton Lions Club, First Christian Church Fellowship Hall, noon.

Grundy County Health Department, Children’s Immunizations by Appointment, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Nurse Services by appointment,

ACROSS MISSOURI

National Work Zone Awareness Week

JEFFERSON CITY - In 2023, 35 fatalities occurred in work zone crashes, the highest number of work zone fatalities in Missouri history. Distracted driving contributed to 588 work zone crashes and five of those fatalities. April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, with National Work Zone Awareness Week occurring April 15-19. MoDOT is asking motorists to “Work With Us” by making safe, responsible choices behind the wheel and slowing down when driving through work zones. Using a cell phone while driving is now against the law in Missouri. The Siddens Bening hands free law, which took effect last August, prohibits drivers from physically holding or supporting a cell phone

while driving; this includes sending or receiving texts and recording or watching videos. Drivers can face criminal charges for crashes that result in property damage, injury or death.

“Your decisions as a driver can make the difference between arriving safely or having deadly consequences,” said MoDOT Director Patrick McKenna. “Any time you pass workers on the roadway, remember that buckling up, leaving your phone at your side, slowing down and staying alert are the key behaviors to get everyone home safe every day.”

It’s not just a courtesy to slow down and move over for these work zones – it’s the law. Missouri’s Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes, if safe to do

so, when approaching MoDOT vehicles, law enforcement vehicles and any other emergency vehicle with lights flashing. If drivers can’t change lanes safely, they must slow down as they pass the emergency vehicles. Drivers should be aware of changing traffic conditions, observe warning signs and merge before reaching lane closures.

In 2023 alone, MoDOT work zone vehicles with truck mounted attenuators were struck 63 times, an increase of 27 from the previous year. These crashes are almost always a result of drivers being distracted behind the wheel and/or driving too fast for the conditions.

“These protective vehicles are the only thing between our workers making

FEEDER SALE - MONDAY, APRIL 22 • 11 AM

SPECIAL COW SALE - FRIDAY, APRIL 26 • 6 PM

EXPECTING 600 HEAD!

Double R (Jim and Ryan Ranes)-Complete dispersal - 83 head. Consisting of: 33 spring cow/calf pairs tagged to match. 50 fall calving cows starting calving middle of Sept. All the cows are 5-8yrs old and are black angus/simmi or red angus/simmi. Bred to black angus or red angus bulls that are Montana origin. Nice opportunity to purchase cows from a top producer. Also selling 2 red angus bulls 3-4yrs old.

Lane Everett-Complete dispersal - 62 black angus fall calving cows. 3-7yrs old. Start calving September 1st. Bred to sim angus bulls. Top quality herd.

Drew Dixon - 25 angus cows. 5-8yrs old. 2nd and 3rd stage. Bred to Double R sim angus bulls.

Marty Richardson - 45 angus cow/calf pairs. 4yrs old. Tagged to match.

David Wilson-Complete dispersal - 38 angus cows. 3-6yrs old. Start calving sept 1. Bred to angus bulls. Gentle set of cows that always bring good calves to town.

Jerry Williams - 25 angus cows. 4-6yrs old. 3rd stage. Bred angus.

Fred Muller - 41 angus and sim angus cows. 3-7yrs old. Bred angus bulls. Start calving September 3rd. Big nice cows.

Josh Hunt - 40 angus cows. 4-8yrs old. Start calving end of August. Bred angus.

Seth Roberts - 20 angus cows. 4-8 yrs old. 2nd and 3rd stage. Johnson farms - 10 angus cow/calf pairs. 4-6yrs old. Tagged to match.

Mike Epperson - 20 cow/calf pairs. 5-8yrs old. Tagged to match.

Steve Borgstadt - 2 head of 19 month old angus bulls.

Henry farms - 1 polled Hereford bull 18 months old.

Beau Franklin-Complete dispersal - 27 angus cows. Start calving sept 1st. Bred to angus bulls. Very fancy set.

road improvements or repairs and the traveling public. Keeping everyone safe is our number one priority,” said MoDOT Highway Safety and Traffic Engineer Nicole Hood. “When you see flashing lights and arrows, pay attention, slow down and move over.”

At its core, the Buckle Up Phone Down initiative is about prioritizing personal safety. Forty-five percent of those killed in work zone crashes last year were not wearing a seat belt and the overall unbelted fatality rate so far in 2024 is the highest recorded in recent years. Everyone carries the responsibility of personal safety. Wear your seat belt, put the phone down and help save lives on Missouri roadways.

To help make your travel safer, visit MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at www.traveler.modot.org and find out what work zones you’ll encounter before you go. Be sure to do your part to save lives in those work zones. Missouri’s strategic highway safety plan, Show-Me Zero, provides information for all Missourians to help promote four key messages: buckle up, phone down, slow down, and drive sober. The plan can be viewed at www.savemolives.com.

Boatwright, Ecker to Continue Leadership Roles for Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission State Historical Society

On April 3, the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission voted W. Dustin Boatwright, Cape Girardeau, and Terry L. Ecker, Elmo, into the roles of commission chair and vice chair, respectively. Ecker previously served as commission chairman over the past year, with Boatwright as vice chair.

Boatwright, an Independent, was appointed to the commission in September 2020. Ecker, a Republican, was appointed to the commission in September 2017.

Boatwright is a lifelong resident of southeast Missouri and currently serves as the Chief Engineer/Executive Vice President of the Little River Drainage District. He is a graduate of the Missouri University of Science and Technology with a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Civil Engineering, and is registered in the State of Missouri as a professional engineer and a licensed surveyor in-training.

Ecker raises corn, soybeans and cattle on a farm northwest of Elmo in Nodaway County. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture economics from the University of Missouri and is a graduate of Agriculture Leaders of Tomorrow Class IX. He is also a member of the Missouri Farm Bureau.

Other members of the Commission are Warren K. Erdman, Kansas City; Gregg C. Smith, Clinton; Daniel Hegeman, Cosby; and Francis Slay, St. Louis. The sixmember commission governs the Missouri Department of Transportation, the agency responsible for building, operating and maintaining the state highway system and supporting other transportation modes in Missouri.

“It has been my great honor to serve as chairman of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for the past year,” said former Chairman Terry Ecker. “With record funding available for transportation, we have made significant progress on the needs across the state, from our interstates all the way through our lowest volume roads. The work of the commission is challenging and critically important to the state. I look forward to continuing my work on the commission as vice chair under Mr. Boatwright’s leadership as the new chair.”

Seeking Fellowship Proposals

COLUMBIA, Mo., –

The State Historical Society of Missouri is seeking proposals for two Center for Missouri Studies fellowships to begin January 1, 2025. Each fellowship carries a stipend of $5,000 for a project that results in the completion of an 8,000 to 10,000-word scholarly essay on one of the two topics listed below. The deadline for submitting proposals is Sept. 3, 2024. The competition is open to both academic and independent scholars.

Topics for 2025 Center for Missouri Studies Fellowships:

• Route 66 in Missouri. In commemoration of the Mother Road’s centennial in 2026, proposals are requested for a study of the

legendary highway’s impact on Missouri and Missourians. Any aspect of the history of Route 66 in Missouri will be considered; possible areas of inquiry include but are not limited to Missouri’s political, economic, cultural, or environmental history as it relates to the highway. Originality and significance will be prioritized in evaluating the proposals.

• Missouri Migrations. Proposals are sought for a study of a population movement within Missouri and how it affected the history of the state. Examples of such migration trends include the movement of Black Missourians from the countryside to towns and cities during the Civil War and its aftermath; of

rural and small-town Missourians to urban centers during the twentieth century; of whites from the central cities to the suburbs during the post–World War II era; or of farmers out of northern Missouri during the 1980s Farm Crisis, to name a few. Local case studies and regional or statewide analyses will both be considered.

The fellowship awards will be announced in December. The chosen projects will be considered for publication in the Missouri Historical Review, the quarterly journal of the State Historical Society of Missouri. Fellowship recipients are also invited to make a public presentation of their work.

Further information regarding the fellowships and how to apply for them is available online at shsmo.org. Proposals may be submitted online at shsmo.org/awards/centerfellowship

LOCAL

Dr. Meredith Ussery New Princeton R-V Principal

During the April 8, 2024, board meeting, Dr. Meredith Ussery was unanimously approved to serve as Principal of the Princeton R-V Junior High and High School starting in the 2024-2025 school year. Dr. Ussery has served as the district's Special Education Director for the past eight years and has been with the district for 15 years, serving in numerous roles throughout her tenure. “Dr. Ussery has a tremendous work ethic and will be able to help our students and staff continue to improve,” said Superintendent Jerry Girdner.

Dr. Ussery is married to Scott Ussery, who teaches, coaches, maintains the fields, and drives a bus for the Tigers. They have four children: Kaleb, Kelby, Bowe and Chandler.

Dr. Ussery will begin her official duties on July 1.

Dr. Ussery was born and raised in Knoxville, IA. She graduated with honors from Central College in 2003 and then taught at Knoxville Middle School for six years. She began teaching at Princeton R-V in the fall of 2009. Dr. Ussery earned a Master’s degree from Northwest Missouri State in K-12 Educational Leadership in 2015. She then earned her Specialist degree in Educational Leadership and Superintendency from Arkansas State University in 2017, and most recently, a Doctorate Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Capella University in 2020. Dr. Ussery stated, “I am excited and honored to step into this new role and am committed to the continuous growth of our students, staff, and school community.”

Tina Hanway tina@honeycuttmedia.net

Dr. Meredith Ussery Princeton R-V Junior High and High School Principal

LOCAL

Probate,

Circuit

and Commissioners

Jim Beck, right, presented the President’s Award to Judge Matt Krohn, left, during a joint dinner of judges and clerks at the 109th Annual MAPACJC Meeting, and Conference held April 3-5 in Branson. The award was presented to Krohn “in appreciation of his dedication to the administration of justice and his working relationships with the trial judges of this state.” Judge Beck served as the President of MAPACJC for the 2023-24 year, and he is a Circuit Judge and the Presiding Judge for the 45th Circuit, which is comprised of Lincoln and Pike Counties. Judge Krohn served as Secretary of the Board of Directors for the MAPACJC Association this past year, and he helped organize the meeting and training conference for fellow judges where they received required Continuing Legal Education (CLE). Judges are required to receive at least 15 hours of CLE, as well as ethics training, each year. Krohn also served as one of the presenters and trainers for the conference. Matt Krohn has served as an Associate Circuit Judge in the 3rd Judicial Circuit since January 1, 2015.

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“Keaton and Zachary are very good competitors,” said Sharp. “They will be competing in the upper two percent of the nation in their RAT (Robotics Automation Technology) contest, and I feel like they will be a strong team.”

SkillsUSA is the number one workforce development organization for students. It empowers students to become skills professionals, career-ready leaders, and responsible community members (skillsusa.org).

MU Extension Shares April Gardening Tips

ORNAMENTALS

• When buying bedding plants, choose compact, bushy plants that have not begun to flower.

• Winter mulches should be removed from roses. Complete pruning promptly. Remove only dead wood from climbers at this time. Cultivate lightly, working in some compost or other organic matter.

• Fertilize established roses once new growth is 2 inches long. Use a balanced formulation. Begin spraying to control black spot disease.

• Examine shrubs for winter injury. Prune all dead and weakened wood.

• Groundcovers can be mowed to remove winter burn and tidy plants up. Raise mowers to their highest settings.

• Shrubs and trees best planted or transplanted in spring, rather than fall, include butterfly bush, dogwood, rose of Sharon, black gum (Nyssa), vitex, red bud, magnolia, tulip poplar, birch, ginkgo, hawthorn and most oaks.

• Evergreen and deciduous hedges may be sheared.

Prune the top narrower than the base so sunlight will reach the lower limbs.

• Easter lilies past blooming can be planted outdoors. Set the bulbs 2 to 3 inches deeper than they grew in the pot. Mulch well if frost occurs.

• Prune spring flowering ornamentals after they finish blooming.

• Begin planting out summer bulbs such as caladiums, gladioli and acidanthera at 2 week intervals.

LAWNS

• Start mowing cool season grasses at recommended heights. For complete details, refer to University Extension Guide #6705, Cool Season Grasses.

• Apply crabgrass preventers before April 15. (Can be a week or two later in northeast Missouri, especially if it has been cold). Do not apply to areas that will be seeded.

• Aerate turf if thatch is heavy or if soil is compacted.

VEGETABLES

• Finish transplanting broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower plants into the garden, con-

tainers or raised beds.

• Plants started indoors should be hardened off outdoors before being transplanted into the garden.

• Finish sowing seeds of all cool-season vegetables not yet planted.

• Handpick and destroy asparagus beetles.

• Flower stalks should be removed from rhubarb plants, if they develop.

• Thin out crowded seedlings from early plantings of cool season crops such as beets, carrots, lettuce, onions and radish.

FRUIT

• Blemish-free fruits unmarred by insect or disease injury can rarely be produced without relying on regular applications of insecticides and fungicides For special information, consult University Extension Guide Sheet #G6010, Home Fruit Spray Schedule.

• Stink bugs and tarnished plant bugs become active on peaches.

• Plant bare-root or potted fruit trees as soon as the soil can be worked.

• Remove tree wraps from fruit trees now.

• Protect bees and other pollinating insects. Do not spray insecticides on fruit trees that are blooming.

• Destroy or prune off webs of eastern tent caterpillars. "B.t." (Dipel) is a safe biological spray.

• Orange, jelly-like galls on cedar trees spread rust diseases to apples, crabapples and hawthorns.

• Begin sprays for fireblight susceptible apples and pears using an agricultural streptomycin.

• Spider mites and codling moths become active on apples.

Photo Courtesy of Trenton R-IX School District

On Tuesday, April 9, newly elected board members Melissa King, left, and Bill Miller, center, were sworn into office during the Trenton R-IX Board of Education meeting held in the District Office. Board Secretary Michelle Hixson, right, led the swearing in ceremony.

Photo Courtesy of North Central Missouri College North Central Missouri College’s two-person robotics automation technology team, Keaton Pettlon, left and Zachary Walker, right, both of Maryville, competed in the Missouri SkillsUSA Robotics Automation Technology Competition held at State Tech in Linn. The team took first place and qualified to compete at the National SkillsUSA conference in Atlanta, GA, June 24-28. Keaton and Zachary completed their contest in record time, being the only team to complete their contest skill challenge. The team is coached by Rick Sharp, center, NCMC Industrial Technology Instructor.

Submitted Photo

Missouri Association of

Associate

Judges

President

On April

NCMC Breaks Ground on New Student Center

Students, faculty, staff, donors, and friends gathered at the corner of Chestnut and West 13th Street on North Central Missouri College’s main campus in Trenton to celebrate the construction of the Dr. Neil & Susanne Nuttall Student Center on April 10, 2024.

Mrs. Kim Washburn, Co-Chair of the “Transforming Lives, Empowering People” campaign, welcomed everyone and shared the one word that comes to mind when she thinks of NCMC, “future.” “That one word means even more to me today standing here celebrating with all of you than it did even two years ago, because today I see the power believing in the future played in making this dream a reality,”

Washburn said. She went on to add how the contributions of many impacted the campaign by saying, “Everyone participated at every level imaginable because they all believed in supporting the future. The future of education, future of our youth, future of our community, and the future of our college. Without this type of generosity, none of this would be possible.”

NCMC Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Kristen Alley shared the impact that the Nuttall Student Center will have on students. “It will be a space for students to come together, be inspired, share experiences, relax, and build lasting relationships,” she said. Dr. Alley went on to add,

“The Nuttall Student Center will be a catalyst for continuing to build a strong campus community. It will serve as a cornerstone for student life and be an important factor in recruitment and retention.”

Dr. Lenny Klaver, NCMC President, thanked the investors for their support of the campaign. “This is a tremendous thing for NCMC and a great thing for our students. We hope it will be an attraction to the community and the region. It will be nice to show off to students visiting if they are considering attending here.” Reflecting on the generosity of others, Klaver went on to add, “Again, it was a tremendous effort; we have had so many people embrace this

On

students. To be eligible, students must be enrolled in an accredited institution offering an associate degree, completed at least 12 credit hours, have a 3.50 GPA or above, receive an invitation to join and adhere to the moral standards of the society. To learn more about the PTK program, visit www.ptk.org

project, as well as what has happened in Savannah with the new campus and the Derry building. There’s no debt on the Student Center. Through fundraising, state allocations, and the generosity of a lot of folks, this building is paid for. I think that is something that we all should be very proud of. Thank you to everyone!”

The Nuttall Student Center is a major initiative of NCMC and a part of the NCMC Foundation’s “Transforming Lives, Empowering People” campaign. The Nuttall Student Center is named in honor of Dr. Neil & Susanne Nuttall through a generous gift from the late Dr. Albert D. Cross and his wife, Carol. Dr. Nuttall served as NCMC President from 2005-2016.

MU Extension to Offer Hydroponics Class

On May 8, Jennifer Schutter, University of Missouri Extension field specialist in horticulture, will teach a workshop on growing plants hydroponically. The program begins at 6 p.m. at the Missouri Department of Conservation Northeast Regional Office, 3500 S. Baltimore St., Kirksville. Topics covered in the class include growing hydroponic crops on a small scale: lettuce, spinach, tomatoes, basil; overview of NFT (nutrient flow technique), deep water culture, and Dutch bucket hydroponic systems; management of nutrient solutions, pH, and EC (electrical con-

ductivity); and seed starting and crop management. The cost of the class includes a Deep Water Culture unit to take home Register online at https://extension.missouri.e du/events/introduction-tohydroponics or in-person at the Adair County Extension Center, 503 E. Northtown Road, Kirksville, MO.

The workshop is limited to 30 people. Registration closes April 24 at 5 pm. Late registrations will not be accepted. Questions can be directed to Schutter at schutterjl@missouri.edu or 660-665-9866.

Photo Courtesy of North Central Missouri College

10, North Central Missouri College held a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the future Dr. Neil & Susanne Nuttall Student Center. Taking part in the groundbreaking were, from left, Chris Hoffman, Rick Akers of Lawhon Construction, Jeremy Proctor of Ellison-Auxier Architects, Student Senate members Sawyer McCallon and Cole Henderson, Carol Cross, Dr. Neil Nuttall, Kim Washburn, NCMC Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Kristen Alley, NCMC President Dr. Lenny Klaver, Allan Seidel and NCMC mascot Cap’n Patch.

Photo Courtesy of North Central Missouri College

April 9, North Central Missouri College inducted twelve students into Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) National Honor Society membership for spring 2024. New members were honored and recognized at an induction ceremony and include, from left, Shayla Gerlt of Browning, Hannah Byers of Brookfield, Lane Mitchell of Chillicothe, Haylee Burns of Queen City, Kerri Basham of Cowgill, Courtney Caraway of Pattonsburg, Cooper Berry of Maysville, Taisia Zeger of Chillicothe, Valorie Gabrielli of Polo, Payton Hirter of Savannah, Abigail Holder of Chillicothe and Grace Barton of Savannah. NCMC PTK advisors are Maryellen Harman, NCMC History Instructor, and Nicole Shell, Academic Advisor. PTK is the world’s largest and most prestigious honor society for two-year college

Who uses ChatGPT?

Area School Boards Swear In New Members, Approve Contracts

The Pleasant View RVI, Grundy R-V, Spickard R-II and Laredo R-VII school boards recently met. Newly elected board members were sworn in. Discussions included bids, career ladder and non-certified contracts.

Pleasant View R-VI

The Pleasant View R-VI Board of Education met Tuesday, April 9 at 6 p.m. in the school cafeteria.

The Board heard an update from the Pleasant View Community Club and teachers, Jamie Whitney and Katie Harvey.

The oath of office was administered to new board members Zach Harris (3 year term), Derek McCaulsin (3 year term) and Jennifer Belvel (1 year term).

An election of new Board officers was held with Damien Little selected to serve as President, Ben Thomas as Vice President, Jennifer Belvel as Treasurer and Brenda Allnutt as Secretary to the Board.

Bids were opened for busing options next school year. A bid was accepted from Central States Bus for leasing three new buses for a five year period in the amount of $91,708.82 per year.

Health insurance for the 2024-2025 school year was discussed with no action taken.

A motion was approved to add $1,000 to the base certified salary schedule and allow teachers their step on the pay scale for the 2024-2025 school year. The new base salary for the 2024-2025 school year will be $34,500. Also approved was the addition of $0.50 to the non-certified base salaries as well as allow their step on the pay scale for the 2024-2025 school year.

A motion was approved for Mrs. Steinhoff to apply for the Summer School grant with all other details to be worked out at a later date.

A motion was made to approve Career Ladder for the 2024-2025 school year. The terms are the same as last year. (stage 1- 50 hours- $1500.00, stage 275 hours- $3000.00, and stage 3- 100 hours- $5,000)

Future dates of importance include:

4/10 - SW Track Meet

4/12 - Midterm 4th Qtr

4/15 - Princeton Track

Meet

4/16 - Trenton Track

Meet

4/19 - Early OutTeachers Meeting

5/2 - 6/7/8 grade field trip to Hannibal 5/3 - Mrs. Richman’s PK and Kindergarten field trip to Kansas City Zoo,

5/6 to 5/8 - 8th Grade field trip to Branson 5/9 - KEYS Preschool Awards (morning) and Mrs. Richman's Preschool Awards at 6:00 p.m.

5/10 - 8th Grade Graduation

5/13 - All School Awards at 8:30 a.m.

5/14 - Field Day, 5/15Early Out @ 1:20 and Last Day of School

During a closed session, the Board:

• approved the transfer of Lindsey Bond from first grade teacher to school librarian for the 2024-2025 school year.

•set Superintendent/ Principal Rebecca Steinhoff's salary to $78,000 for the 2024-2025 school year (up from $75,600 in the 2023-2024 school year)

• approved an Individual Academic Plan.

Grundy R-V

The regular meeting of the Grundy R-V Board of Education was held Wednesday, April 10 at 6 p.m.

The oath of office was given to newly elected board members Mary Lentz and Kaleb Shiflett. Officers elected for the 2024-25 school year include President Opie Peterson, VicePresident Zachariah Kasinger, Secretary Mary Lentz and Treasurer Kaleb Shiflett.

In old business, the Board approved an agreement with Lone Star Transportation to provide bus maintenance and services for the 2024-25 school year.. The Board approved the sports cooperative agreement with Newtown-Harris for the 2024-25 school year.

Salary information for the 2024-25 school year was discussed. The Board approved steps for experience and a 3 percent increase to the base for certified staff. The new base for the 2024-25 school year will be $34,797. A 3 percent increase for all noncertified staff members was also approved.

The Board approved an insurance plan from Missouri Educators Trust for next year. The base plan offered by the district will be capped at $600 and the staff will have the opportunity to buy up to three other plans. Another option is to purchase a plan with a lower cost and the difference will be placed in an HSA for the staff member.

In new business, the Board approved the letting of bids for propane, diesel fuel, milk and bread for the next school year. Bids will be opened at the May Board meeting.

The Grundy Co. Health Department will be having a staff Wellness Fair at the high school in Galt on April 29. The Board agreed to pay for the $32 lab fee cost per employee.

The Board approved two days of paid leave per year for each bus driver in the district.

Reports were presented by elementary and secondary principals.

After closed session the following announcements were made:

The Board approved the hiring of Emily Gann as agriculture teacher for the 2024-25 school year.

All non-certified staff members voted on were offered contracts for the 2023-24 school year.

Multiple extra duty contracts were offered for district sponsorships and athletics.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Grundy R-V Board of Education will be Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 6 p.m. in the high school business room.

Spickard R-II

The Spickard R-II Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, April

15 at 6 p.m.

Election results were certified and Ruth Ann Shipps and Melody Chapman took the oath of office for three year terms. One seat on the board remains vacant.

Newly elected officers for the 2024-25 school year include Ruth Ann ShippsPresident, Melody Chapman-Vice President, Glenn Wilson-Treasurer, Angela Hagan-Secretary and Ruth Ann Shipps-MSBA delegate.

The Board voted to extend at-will agreements to all current non-certificated employees for the 24-25 school year.

Payment of April bills totaling $72,691.34 was approved.

The non-certified salary schedule was adopted "as is" from last school year with no changes.

Progress on CSIP was discussed. The Board will be analyzing test scores and compiling survey data in the next few weeks to gather useful information that will be used to revise the school’s CSIP in June.

A letter regarding tuition increases from Princeton Superintendent Jerry Gird-

ner was reviewed. Tuition rates will increase from $6375 per student for the 2023-24 school year, to $6725 for students already attending Princeton and $11,000 for new students coming in for the 2024-25 school year.

Years of service recognition pins will be awarded to Shelly Porter and Jackie White, who have each served the school district for 10 years.

Approved a $250 scholarship award be paid to the Drury Award winner. The winner will be announced at the Senior Awards night at Princeton. The Drury Award goes to the senior from Spickard with the highest GPA.

Hiring for the vacant 1st/2nd grade position and the paraprofessional position was discussed. Superintendent Erica Eakes will be notifying applicants and an announcement will be made at a later date.

The April Top Pirate was announced as being Remington Etter and the Top Teammate award went to Jackie White.

State testing (MAP and TerraNova) will be held April 29 to May 3 and Dis-

trict Literacy and Math testing will be held May 6-8.

An upcoming field trip has been changed to the Science Center of Iowa in Des Moines on May 9 for grades K-6. Parents are welcome to attend and should contact the school if interested in going.

Sixth Grade Graduation will be held May 10 at 6 p.m. with three students graduating: Forest Sharp, Jacob Wilson-Hay and Sophia Persell.

The last day of school is May 15, with Awards Assembly at 12 p.m. and dismissal at 1 p.m.

The Republican-Times business office hours are Monday thru Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed from 12-1 p.m. for lunch) and Friday, 9:00 a.m. to Noon. The office will be closed on Saturdays.

Republican-Times 122 E. 8th St. 359-2212

Fax: 660-359-4414

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*SEAMLESS GUTTERING* We are ready to replace your old gutters with new seamless aluminum gutters! MOORE’S CONSTRUCTION & WOODWORK, INC. 359-5477. 52 Years Experience.

WANTED!! Used & Abused Cars & Trucks. Highest prices paid! You Call - We Come Get It! FRONTIER AUTO & TRUCK PARTS (formerly Jim’s Auto Salvage) 145 Hwy. W., Trenton, 3593888.

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Call MIDWEST MECHANICAL & rely on comfort. 800-425-0976 or 485-6611, Brian S. Israel, owner. For your heating & cooling needs. All Tax Credits & Rebates available! Geostar Geothermal Heat Pumps. Over 25 years experience.

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PAGE TREE SERVICE

Jeff Page 660-359-3699shop, 660-359-2202-home. Serving the entire Green Hills Area! Specializing in tree trimming, stump grinding & complete removal. 75’ bucket truck, chipper & stump grinder. Licensed & insured. Free Estimates!

Buying standing walnut, oak & cottonwood timber. Cash or on shares. Call Mike at 816-248-3091.

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PAYING $75/ACRE FOR

RENTAL PASTURE. Will consider any size and location. 816-288-9060

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WANTED FARM

GROUND - I am looking for row crop ground to cash rent. Call Brad 816-284-3689.

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JAMESPORT LUMBERFull Service Lumberyard. We also sell Trusses/metal/ rebar/concrete blocks. New Hardware Department • Gift Certificates and Delivery Available • Free Estimates. 32089 St. Hwy 6, Jamesport 660-684-6404

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Carquest Auto Parts T & L Auto Supply, Inc., 1823 East 9th, Trenton, 3592268, tlautosupply.com Monday-Friday, 7-5, Saturday, 7:30-12.

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Mid-States Services is now offering: Fiber Optic installs in rural Trenton! MidStates will STILL WAIVE the $150 installation free for those who sign up NOW! Sign up TODAY by calling 660-359-2045 or at http://www.mid-states.net. 4100 Oklahoma Ave., Trenton, MO 64683.

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RED BARN MINI STORAGE, across from the new hospital on Iowa Blvd in Trenton. 5 Unit sizes available. Call Mike or Jane Cooksey 660-359-7683.

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JAMESPORT BUILDERS, 660-684-6931, 32137 State Hwy 6, Jamesport. POLE BARNS – GARAGES, Spray foam insulation.

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BUY - SELL - TRADEBIG NASTY'S GUNS & AMMO - Stop in and see us at our New Location - 1515 E. 9th Street, Trenton, MO. Nathan Rorebeck, 660-6350469, www.bignastys.com

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Willing Workers LLPDo you need your siding or roof replaced? Give Willing Workers a call today for a FREE estimate... 660-9735694, John Kramer, 17594 St. Hwy. 190, Jamesport, MO 64648

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Offutt, Offutt & Associates Auction Service. Land, farm, and Home. Free Appraisals. Cameron, MO. 816-7243214

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CRP Grass seeding and management. Experienced life long grass farmer. Ray Schwarz 816-223-4712

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Ewing Lawn Detail - mowing and general lawn cleanup in Trenton area. Call 660654-8313.

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www.republican-times.com

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FARM NEEDS

See Consumer Oil & Supply for your One Stop Shop for Muck and Lacrosse boots and gloves. Consumer Oil & Supply, 614 Harris Ave., 359-2258

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Gravel, sand, top soil, mulch, river rock, bouldersTurney Mini Quarry 816-2482523.

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PETS/ANIMALS

Shelly's Pet Care 660684-6864, 103 S. Locust St., Jamesport, MO 64648. Professional, Personalized Grooming. Appointments available Monday - Saturday. 35 Years of Experience! Serving the Green Hills Area since 1996!

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INSURANCE

HELTON INSURANCE SOLUTIONS - Williams Shopping Center, Trenton, MO. New To Medicare or Want To Compare Pricing ... Call Brian McDaniel 816289-1935 Or Leah Helton 660-359-3806 or 660-6350537 "Our Quality Of Service Is What Makes Us Different"

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Shelter Insurance – Cale Gondringer 1601 E 9th St., Suite D. 660-359-4100. LIFE * HOME * AUTO * FARM * BUSINESS. We’re your shield. We’re your shelter. ShelterInsurance.com

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NOTICES

THE PEOPLE’S CO-OP, 1736 East 9th • 359-3313. Premium Diesel, Gas, 10% Ethanol – CENEX. 83 years of service & experience. MR. TIRE – Mastercraft and Yokohama tires.

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WEBSITES

Replacement Parts; Accessories; Chemicals; Tool & equipment. www.tlautosupply.com

HELP WANTED

Sunnyview Nursing Home has job openings available for the following positions:

RN, LPN, CNA, Dietary and Level I Medication Aide. Please fill out a job application at 1311 East 28th Street, Trenton, MO 64683. E.O.E.

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Help Wanted: Teacher, Trenton Head Start. Full-time with the following benefits.

-4-day work week

-Dental/Health/Life Insurance

-Life Flight

-Retirement

-Sick Leave

-Paid Tuition to NCMC

Go to Green Hills Head Start for job description and application or call 660-3592214. E.O.I.

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Secretary Position - Will need to know Word & Excel, will train on Quickbooks. 16 hours a week, Friday and Saturday, $12.75. Will be bonded. Please submit resume to office@leisurelake.net or mail to 71660 NW 25 th, Trenton, MO. If questions, please email.

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Shelter Insurance, Cale Gondringer has an opening for a full-time Agency Assistant. Duties include performing general clerical tasks of policy service and office maintenance. Position is 35 hours/week. Apply at Shelter Insurance, 1601 E. 9th St., Ste. D, Trenton, MO 64683, 660-359-4100.

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North Central Missouri College is seeking a Business Instructor. This is a fulltime position with benefits included. Interested applicants should visit www.ncmissouri.edu/jobs for more information and how to apply or call 660-357-6203. NCMC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer

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North Central Missouri College is seeking a SAIL Program Coordinator. This is a full-time position with benefits included. Interested applicants should visit www.ncmissouri.edu/jobs for more information and how to apply or call 660-357-6203. NCMC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer

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North Central Missouri College is seeking a Lead Custodian. This is a full-time position with benefits included. Interested applicants should visit www.ncmissouri.edu/jobs for more information and how to apply or call 660-357-6203. NCMC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer

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FOR SALE

Fresh bulk garden seed. Limited supply. Trenton Hardware, 901 Main in Trenton, 660-359-3660.

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FOR RENT

REAL ESTATE

Farm for Sale - Country House. (1377 Square foot) on 42 acres in Princeton area. Open living room, 3 bedroom , 2 bathroom, hardwood floors, family room in basement with fireplace. Detached 2 car garage. Outbuildings include; 8x12, 16x40, 13x36, 18x32.

Fenced Pasture, Pond, Stream, in Amish Company. $280K Call Leslie 702-9848414.

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RUMMAGE SALE

Estate Sale - 64 NW 52nd Ave Edinburg Saturday 8am6pm. Antiques, Collectables, Tools, Household Items.

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Garage Sale - Racheal & Ben Thomas. 355 SE 20th Street, Trenton. Thursday April 25th 3pm to 7pm. Friday April 26th 8am to 12pm. Women and Kids Clothing, Shoes & Kids Toys.

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Churchwide Rummage Sale - Friday, April 19th 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Saturday, April 20th 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., First Baptist Church, 202 East Ford Street, Cameron, MO 64429. All proceeds benefit missions.

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Sealed Bids for the 2024 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project will be received by the City of Trenton, at the office of the City Clerk, until 10:00 a.m. local time on May 9, 2024, at which time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read. The Project consists of C.I.P.P. lining of approximately 46 ft of 8” pipe, 2595 ft of 10” pipe, and 1775 ft of 12” pipe sewer mains. The date for substantial completion of this work is November 29, 2024.

Bids will be received for a single prime Contract. Bids shall be on a lump sum and unit price basis bid items as indicated in the Bid Form.

The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is: Howe Company, LLC 804 E. Patton St, Macon, MO 63552 660-

Sunnyview Apartments is taking applications for single & double apartments. Sunnyview is a residential care facility for the elderly. We provide qualified staff to administer medications, provide three meals a day and offer minimal assistance with the activities of daily living. Now accepting Medicaid. For more information contact Cassandra Brewer at 660-359-5647.

Two Apartments for lease. One studio and one 1 BR. Hale, MO All utilities and appliances furnished. NO PETS 1st month and deposit due at signing. Background check required. 660-6452269

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On 03-NOV-2023, the last will of Decedent having been admitted to probate, the following individual was appointed personal representative of the estate of ROBERT M WILFORD, decedent by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of GRUNDY COUNTY, Missouri.

The name and business address of the personal representative is: CHERYL LYNN KING, 359 NE 105TH AVE, GALT, MO 64641

The personal representative's attorney's name and business address is: MICHAEL DEAN ARNOLD, 109 E. JACKSON STREET, GALLATIN, MO 64640.

All creditors of said decedent are notified to file claims in court within six months from the date of the first publication of this notice or if a copy of this notice was mailed to, or served upon, such creditor by the personal representative, then within two months from the date it was mailed or served, whichever is later, or be forever barred to the fullest extent permissible by law. Such six-month period and such two-month period do not extend the limitation period that would bar claims one year after Decedent's death, as provided in Section 473.444, RSMo, or any other applicable limitation periods. Nothing in Section 473.033, RSMo, shall be construed to bar any action against a decedent’s liability insurance carrier through a defendant ad litem pursuant to Section 537.021, RSMo.

Date of the decedent’s death: 09-Oct-2023

Date of first publication: 28-Mar-2024 /s/ Michelle Smith Probate Clerk Receipt of this notice by mail should not be construed by the recipient to indicate

The Personal Representative's attorney's name, business address and phone number is:

MICHAEL RICHARD ONG, 6201 COLLEGE BLVD, STE 350, OVERLAND PARK, KS 66211, 913-451-4990

The Non-Resident Personal Representative's designated agent's name, business address, and phone number is:

MICHAEL R ONG, 430 EAST 65TH ST, KANSAS CITY, MO 64131, 913-451-4990

All creditors of said decedent are notified to file claims in court within six months from the date of the first publication of this notice or if a copy of this notice was mailed to, or served upon, such creditor by the personal representative, then within two months from the date it was mailed or served, whichever is later, or be forever barred to the fullest extent permissible by law. Such six-month period and such two-month period do not extend the limitation period that would bar claims one year after Decedent's death, as provided in section 473.444, RSMo, or any other applicable limitation periods. Nothing in section 473.033, RSMo, shall be construed to bar any action against a decedent's liability insurance carrier through a defendant ad litem pursuant to section 537.021, RSMo.

Date of the decedent’s death: 10-JUN-2023

Date of first publication: 04-APR-2024 /s/ Michelle Smith Probate Clerk

Receipt of this notice by mail should not be construed by the recipient to indicate that the recipient necessarily has a beneficial interest in the estate. The nature and extent of any person's interest, if any, can be determined from the files and records of this estate in the Probate Division of the above referenced Circuit Court. (4/4, 4/11, 4/18, 4/25/24)

Boards

• From Page 11 •

The Laredo R-VII Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, April 8 at 6 p.m.

Morgan Duff and Ronna Owens were sworn in as new board members, each for a three year term. Reorganization of the Board took place, with Jason Meeker named President, Casey Bowe-Vice President, Kristi Urich-Treasurer, Robin Griswold-Board Secretary and Angie Lowery-MSBA Delegate.

In old business, the Board discussed building improvements and transportation, with no decisions made.

A salary proposal was approved, which included a 6 percent increase for administration and non-certified personnel (excluding

the assistant custodian). Bus drivers will receive $1.50/day increase. A certified base increase of $2,500 will make the base salary for teachers $36,500.

The 2023D MSBA Policy updates were approved after a third reading.

In new business, the Board approved the payment of the 2024-25 MSBA dues. Also approved was career ladder for the 2024-25 school year and a three year NEE contract.

It was announced the Health Fair will be held April 30.

The Board reviewed the budget and CSIP/MSIP 6, with no announcements made.

During a closed session, all non-certified contracts were approved.

The next meeting of the Laredo R-VII Board of Education will be Monday, May 13 at 6 p.m.

SPORTS

Local Schools Participate in Gary Ferguson Relays

Trenton High School held their annual Gary Ferguson Relays last week with ten schools in attendance.

Those high schools included Brookfield, Cainsville, Carrollton, Gallatin, Maysville, Newtown-Harris, North Harrison, Princeton, Trenton and Tri-County.

TRENTON

The Trenton Lady Bulldogs had a successful day, coming in fourth as a team.

Alexis Bonnett was able to secure fifth in the 100m dash.

Avery Clark took fifth in high jump, third in javelin and second in the 400m dash.

Tymber Cooksey placed fifth in the 1600m run and sixth in the 800m run.

Kylee Corwin had a successful day as a hurdle runner placing fourth in the 100m hurdles and first in the 300m hurdles with a time of 53.31 seconds.

Kaegen Croy placed fourth in javelin and second in high jump.

Katy Simpson was able to score her team some points by placing fourth in the 3200m run.

The Trenton Bulldogs also had a successful day, placing third as a team. They ran four relays placing sixth in the 4x200m relay, third in

The Lady Bulldogs ran three relay teams during the meet. Their 4x200m relay team received fifth and their 4x800m relay team took second. Their biggest achievement of the day, how-ever, was during the last event on the day. The Lady Bulldog 4x400m relay team, consisting of Avery Clark, Kylee Corwin, Elexyss Miller and Tymber Cooksey, took first with a time of 4:48.36. There time was almost two seconds faster than Brookfield, who took second.

the 4x400m relay, third in the 4x100m relay and second in the 4x800m relay.

Christian Glaspie scored points in the field events by placing sixth in the long jump event.

Cooper Houser took sixth in the 400m dash.

Aiden Kempton was able to secure fourth place in shot put.

Robert Muselman, the only senior on the team who was also recognized for his dedication to the track program, placed third in the 1600m run and second in the 3200m run.

Gage Pierce took fifth in the 800m run.

Asher Pryor took on some long distance running events for the team, placing second in the 1600m run and first in the 800m run with a time of 2:18.23.

Logan Sahagun placed fourth in both the 110m hurdles and the 300m hurdles.

Silas Spencer, who had four individual events on the day, was able to place third in the 110m hurdles and third in 300m hurdles. He also ran the 100m dash and the 200m dash.

NEWTOWN-HARRIS

The Newtown-Harris Lady Panthers had a difficult day on the points side of the track meet, taking seventh as a team, but achieved some good things as individuals.

They ran two relay teams, placing fifth with their 4x100m relay team and third with their 4x400m relay team.

Kinsley Allnutt was able to secure fifth place in high jump and fourth in the 300m hurdles.

Molly Milazzo took fourth in the triple jump event, third in the 1600m run and first in the 800m run with a time of 2:38.09.

Landry Oaks took on three field events during the meet placing sixth in shot put. She also threw in javelin and the discus field events.

Adysan Rains placed second in the javelin event.

The Newtown-Harris Panthers showed up ready to run as they placed first as a team with several of the boys having first place finishes in events.

They ran four relay teams placing lower in the shorter distance relays and taking home first in the longer relays. Their 4x200m relay team placed fifth, the 4x100m relay took fourth, the 4x400m relay team placed first with a time of 4:02.85 and their 4x800m relay team also brought home first with a time of 9:08.66. Their 4x400m team consisted of Zack Cross,

Hunter Miller, Payton Miller and Gauge MacGregor. Their 4x800m team consisted of Gauge MacGregor, Payton Miller, Garrett MacGregor and Preston Tovrea.

Corbin Axtell had a sucessful day in the field event portion of the meet. In discus he placed fourth, in shot put he took third and in javelin he brought home first with a throw of 40.3 meters.

Zack Cross also had a very successful day, bringing home first place medals in all three of his events. He had a time of 16.58 seconds to take first in the 110m hurdles, a time of 25.10 seconds in the 200m dash for first and 42.75 seconds in the 300m hurdles for first.

Garrett MacGregor brought home third in the 3200m run.

Gauge MacGregor also had two first place finishes. He ran a time of 4:56.88 in the 1600m run and a time of 11:03.35 in the 3200m run.

Hunter Miller placed fourth in the 400m dash, second in the 110m hurdles and second in triple jump.

Payton Miller had two events bringing home sixth in the 800m run and first in the 400m dash with a time of 56.06 seconds.

Carson Reeter placed sixth in the 100m dash.

Ryker Summers took third in the 800m run.

GALLATIN

The Gallatin Lady Bulldogs had one of the smaller teams, during the track meet, affecting them in team points but allowing them to work on their individual events. They had no relay teams but that did not stop them from taking sixth as a team.

Annabelle Ball had four events on the day, taking home fourth in the 100m dash, fourth in the 200m dash, third in the long jump event and second in the high jump event.

Ashley Feiden ran some longer races, taking third in the 800m run and second in the 1600m run.

Lyndsey King was able to bring home sixth in the 200m dash.

Adalyn Miller secured sixth in the 100m hurdles. Moriah Parker threw shot put, placing fifth.

Kaylen Sterneker placed fifth in discus and took home first in javelin with a throw of 31.17 meters.

The Gallatin Bulldogs also brought home sixth place as a team, running a 4x800m relay as well and taking third in the race.

Levi Carder took home sixth place in the 200m dash.

Magnum Fenimore had a

good day in throwing events, taking home second in discus and first in shot put with a throw of 11.83 meters.

Pryce Johnson was able to secure third place in triple jump and second in the 800m run.

Gavin Wilmes participated in three events, taking fifth in the 400m dash, third in long jump and placed first in high jump with a jump of 1.62 meters.

PRINCETON

The Princeton Lady Tigers were able to bring home third as a team, having many of their athletes in the top three. They ran two relay teams. Their 4x100m relay team placed second and their 4x200m relay team, consisting of Riley Clark, Grace Kelly, Mikaylee Henke and Addi Henke, placed first with a time of 1:59.44.

Katie Bauer placed third in the 3200m run.

Dani Bears took second in the 300m hurdles and first in the 100m hurdles with a time of 18.25 seconds.

Riley Clark took home fourth in the long jump event and third in the 100m dash.

Kelsey Goodin took home fourth in the shot put field event.

Addi Henke placed second in long jump and took home first in the 100m dash with a time of 14.26 seconds.

Grace Kelly was able to secure fourth place in the discus event.

Kadence Power took home sixth in the 400m

dash.

Addison Wyatt brought home fifth in the triple jump event.

The Princeton Tigers secured fourth place as a team, which was just two more points than fifth place. They ran two relay teams, taking second in the 4x100m relay and their 4x200m team, consisting of Gavin Stockman, Corbin Powell, Ethan Rhoades and Nicholas Rubio, took home first with a time of 1:39.81.

Hunter Lowrey threw in two field events placing second in shot put and first in discus with a throw of 39.82 meters.

Corbin Powell placed third in the 400m dash and second in the 200m dash.

Ethan Rhoades took home fifth in long jump and third in the 200m dash.

Gavin Stockman took fourth in the 100m dash.

R/T Photo Taken by Libby Endicott

FIGHT TILL THE FINISH - The Trenton Bulldogs and Newtown-Harris Panthers race for first in the 4x800m relay.

R/T Photo Taken by Libby Endicott

TRENTON 4X200M RELAY - In the last leg of the 4x200m relay, Kendall Foust receives the baton from Alexis Bonnett.

R/T Photo Taken by Libby Endicott

FIRST PLACE FINISH - The Princeton boys 4x200m relay team finished first with a time of 1:39.81. Here, Nicholas Rubio gets the hand off from Ethan Rhoades on the last leg of the relay.

SPORTS

Trenton Boys Tennis

The Trenton Bulldog Boys Golf team has had a successful run during their last two meets, both the team and individual athletes improving on their scores.

Last week they stayed home, having Lawson and Richmond travel to them. In total there was five teams, as both of the other schools had junior varsity teams.

Riley Gott would have the lowest score

Last week the Trenton Bulldog Tennis team traveled to Kirksville to take on the Tigers. They were faced with many challenges when they arrived and received their second loss of the season.

Bradyn Sager would have a difficult match, falling to his opponent 1-8. Victor Markell would also have the same fate, falling to his opponent 1-8. Isaac Dixon would prevail though, winning his match 8-1. Jacob White would prove a challenge to his opponent, only losing 5-8. Jacob Horton would fall to his opponent in their match 18. And Henry Lasley would also fall to his opponent 4-8.

In doubles matchup Sager and White would face tough opponents, falling 1-8. Markell and Dixon would get one up in their match and find themselves with a win of 8-3. Horton and Lasley would also unfortunately lose their matchup 1-8.

The dual score of the day was 2-7, putting the Bulldogs’ season record at 5-2.

This week the Bulldogs made another trip to Maryville to take on the Spoofhounds. Without a full team due to other school activities, they would face another tough challenge in Maryville.

With only three athletes traveling to Maryville, Coach David Sager would take this time to focus on those three, learning more about their playing styles and finding ways to incorporate their weaknesses into practice.

Markell would lose his matchup 1-8, Dixon would lose his matchup 1-8 and Lasley would lose his matchup 0-8. Markell and Dixon would try to gain points in their doubles matchup but would also fall short, losing 2-8.

With no wins on the day and having to forfeit five matches, the Bulldogs would fall 0-9, having their third loss on the season.

Trenton Boys Golf

out of all five teams taking home first. He shot a 36, which was just two over par. He would birdie the fifth hole on the course.

Kiefer Tolson would be next on the team, having the third lowest score of the meet. He would have a score of 39, having a birdie on hole two of the course.

Logan Roberts would be third on the team, having a score of 54.

Hunter Ledgerwood

would follow him with a 57 and Caleb Ray would be the highest score on the team with a 66.

As a team they scored a 186. This was good enough to place second, with the Lawson Varsity team having a 179. Richmond Varsity would score a 190 as a team, Lawson JV shot a 228 and Richmond JV a 229.

After having their meet at home, the

Bulldogs turned around and went to Brookfield for the Brookfield tournament.

The tournament consisted of 18 holes and had 12 teams in attendance.

Kiefer Tolson would hold the teams lowest of the day with an 80, shooting a 39 on the front half and a 41 on the back.

Hunter Ledgerwood would slide into the third hole with a score of 105, 52 on the front and a 53 on the back.

Logan Roberts would find himself fourth on the team with a 121, shooting a 61 on the front and a 60 on the back.

Caleb Ray would round out fifth on the team with a 133, finishing the front half with a 67 and the back

Riley Gott would follow him with an 84, having a 45 on the front and a 39 on the back.

half with a 66.

As a team they finished with a team score of 390. This was good enough for them to bring home fourth.

Salisbury would take first with a 346, Schuyler County would be second with a 386 and Moberly would be third with a 387.

Tolson would also have a low enough score to bring home third and Gott would tie for fourth.

Photo by Andrea Markell

COMPLETE FOCUS - Bradyn Sager focuses on getting his serve over the net. Using the skills he’s learned in practice, he takes the steps to achieve his goal.

Photo by Andrea Markell VARSITY AS A FRESHMAN - Jacob White, one of the freshmen on the team, has earned his spot in the varsity lineup. He has helped his team in their duals and has joined B. Sager as his doubles partner.

Photo by Andrea Markell BACK HAND RETURN - Jacob Horton returns the ball to his opponent during the dual against Kirksville. He has also been paired with H. Lasley this season for a doubles team.

Photo by Andrea Markell

DOUBLE TROUBLE - For at least the last two seasons, Isaac Dixon and Victor Markell have been doubles partners. Throughout the season they have been very successful. They were the only doubles team to win at Kirksville and proved to be a challenge during the Maryville dual.

Thursday, April 18 , 2024 ::

Bulldog Baseball Upsets Conference Standings

The Trenton Bulldogs took victory over the undefeated Putnam County Midgets last week in a big GRC baseball matchup at Burleigh Grimes field.

The Bulldogs went into the game feeling strong. Their starting defense consisted of Colin Taylor in left field, Aiden Weyer in center field, Graeme Sager in right field, first base was played by Camden Skipper, second base by Remi Olmstead, Elijah Miller was at short stop, Logan Wilson played third base, behind the plate for the night was Brayden Wiggins and Mason Rongey started off with the pitching duties.

The first two innings neither team was able to get a run. Rongey would have three strikeouts in those two innings with the rest of his defense behind him working hard to get the other outs.

In the top of the third the Midgets still did not have any runs. Trenton would finally find their rhythm and score the first run of the game. Taylor would be the first up at the plate, landing a bunt right in front of the pitcher, but getting out at first. This shook the Putnam County defense and caused their coach to switch up their defense a little bit.

G. Sager would follow Taylor and hit the ball deep into right field earning himself a triple. Going back to the top of the batting order Rongey would unfortunately strike out, giving the Bulldogs the second out of the inning. But in true Bulldog fashion the Bulldogs would keep pushing through, always seeming to find most of their energy when there are two outs.

Weyer would be the next to step into the batters box, getting hit by the pitch and advancing to first. Wiggins would follow him, getting a couple swings in before the defense attempted a play that would be their downfall.

With a Bulldog on third and first the Midget’s catcher would make a fake out throw to second when Weyer was trying to steal. He would then try and get G. Sager out at third, but would over throw the ball past the third baseman. This would allow G. Sager to advance to home scoring the first run of the game, and allow Weyer to get to third. Wiggins would hit one out to the short stop and beat the tag at first, allowing Weyer to score for run two.

After Wiggins was switched out with his cour-

tesy runner, Mathew Bowden, Miller and Skipper would also get on base. The inning would end with Wilson striking out, but the Bulldogs up by two.

The fourth inning the Midgets would finally score one run, but the Bulldogs would counter with two. Those two runs were made by Olmstead and Taylor, who stole home when the ball got past the catcher off a high pitch.

By the sixth inning the Midgets would have the game tied, scoring two runs in the fifth and one in the sixth, both teams with four runs.

Going into the seventh inning both teams were on edge. The Midgets would start things off with the first batter up hitting one out into center field and stealing second. The next batter would follow suit and make it onto first after sending one into right field. They would score when the Bulldogs tried to make a play from second to first and the ball would go over the head of G. Sager at first.

After the Midgets scored, Coach David Shockely would switch pitchers from Skipper, who took the mound in the fifth inning, to Miller. Miller would walk the first batter he faced, but he struck out the next two for the last two outs of the inning.

With the Midgets having a one run lead, the Bulldogs had to keep calm as they took turns stepping into the batters box.

Wilson would lead off, hitting one into right field on the first pitch and getting to first. Olmstead would be next hitting one to the left of second base. He would make it onto first but the Putnam County defense would get Wilson out at second.

Coach Shockley would give Taylor, the next batter up, the sign to bunt. He would land the bunt out front, the defense unable to get a good grip on it, beating the throw to first and sending Olmstead to second.

G. Sager would step up to the plate with only one out. He would foul one off

within the first couple pitches. After the pitch was sent down range, Olmstead would find himself out in the middle between second and third after taking a big lead off the bag. The Midget’s catcher would notice this and try to get the ball to the other members of his defense to try and run him down. The catcher would attempt to throw it to second, but again would over throw sending it over the head of the short stop. Olmstead would advance to third and with a signal from Coach Shockley to keep going, take home to tie the score. While Olmstead was rounding the bases, Taylor would be hot on his heels, stealing second and starting to move to third. The defense would finally track down the ball and attempt to get Taylor out at third. Again they would have an overthrown pass that would get past their third baseman. Coach Shockley would take a chance and send Taylor through onto home. With a dive Taylor would get across home plate before the catcher even received the ball.

Since it was the bottom of the seventh, the Bulldogs would take the win by one run, handing the Putnam County Midgets their first loss of the season.

This has altered things for the Grand River Confer-

ence regarding the baseball standings. The GRC currently has six schools that have baseball programs. Those schools include Trenton, Maysville, Putnam County, South Harrison, Polo and Milan.

Maysville has finished their GRC games winning four and only losing to Putnam County. Putnam County is currently 2-1 on GRC games, Trenton 1-1, South Harrison 1-2, Polo 01 and Milan also having no wins and one loss to Maysville.

In the current situation there is a chance for a three

way tie. Maysville is guarenteed to be a GRC champion as they only have one loss and they have played all the teams in the conference. With Trenton beating Putnam County, that opens the doors for many opportunities. Trenton, Putnam County and Polo will be fighting to share the GRC champion title with Maysville. Polo has still yet to play four of the teams in the conference. Trenton will play Polo on April 29 at Polo. The Bulldogs will also have to defeat Milan and South Harrison to stay in the running for GRC champion.

R/T Photo Taken by Libby Endicott ON THE PITCHERS MOUND - Camden Skipper took the mound in the fifth inning after playing first base most of the game. He would throw a total of 44 pitches, having 28 strikes.

R/T Photo Taken by Libby Endicott TWO RUNS IN - Remi Olmstead would have two big runs for the Bulldogs. The first was in the fourth inning. His second run tied the game in the seventh inning.

R/T Photo Taken by Libby Endicott RUN, DIVE, SAFE - Colin Taylor dives into home plate on a steal in the seventh inning to win the game. Taylor also had another steal in the fourth inning to extend the Bulldogs lead.