03-14-2024 Post Telegraph

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Serve Mercer County April 20

Special to the Post-Telegraph PRINCETON, Mo. Serve Mercer County, an established 501(c)(3), invites all neighbors that want to help neighbors to

the opportunity to serve on Saturday, April 20 with a rain date of Saturday, April 27. Civic groups and school groups of all ages are encour-

aged to participate. Register online by Friday, April 12. Meet at the Mercer County SeSee Work day, Page 2

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Princeton FFA members recognized

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COVID vaccine update

Special to the Post-Telegraph PRINCETON Adults 65 years of age and older may now receive another dose of the 20232024 COVID-19 vaccine formulation. The CDC made this recommendation to provide additional protection to those

at high risk for severe disease. Most COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths in the past year were among people 65 years and older. For this reason, additional doses of the vaccine are

See COVID update, Page 2

Mercer County Farm Bureau kicked off Thank A Farmer Week by donating books to Mercer County’s elementary libraries. These Princeton kids are shown enjoying Logan’s Greenhouse (from left), My Family’s Corn Farm and Farming Strong All Year Long

Two Mercer County FFA members have been selected to the Area 2 officer team. Mia Covey (seated, second from left) was chosen to serve as Area 2 second vice president, and Sari Rogers of Mercer (standing, second from left) was elected as Area 2 reporter. Other new officers shown (not in order) are Harlee Beck, Chillicothe, president; Gage Swindler, Braymer, vice president; Kennedy Warner, Winston, secretary; Abbye Johnson, Trenton, treasurer; Brynn Bird, Gallatin, chaplain; Max DeShon, Maysville, sentinel; Emma Henderson, Tri-County (Jamesport), historian; and Carley Wooden, Norborne, parliamentarian.

Two members of the Princeton High School FFA chapter have been recognized by their Area 2 peers. Mia Covey (left) was chosen as second vice president, and Hailee Hein was picked as an FFA Creed speaker.

INFORMATION

HOW TO CONTACT US

Princeton Post-Telegraph

PO Box 286/704 West Main

Princeton, MO 64673

Phone: 660-748-3266

Fax: 660-748-3267

Email: posttele@grm.net

DEADLINES

Al Display Ads (Ads with borders)

All Classified Ads

News & Photos: 10 a.m. Friday * - includes photos sent via email

NOTE: Deadlines change for holiday printing schedules. Advance notice will be provided.

PLEASE CHECK YOUR AD!

If an error is made in your ad, we will be happy to correct it. However, we are not responsible for errors that appear for more than one week.

EDITOR’S NOTICES

All real estate and/or houses, and all rental housing and/or property, advertised in the Princeton Post-Telegraph newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. We will not knowlingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

The receipt of news, advertisements, letters to the editor, and/or press releases by the Princeton Post-Telegraph DOES NOT constitute an agreement to publish such news, advertisements, letters to the editor, and/or press releases. All news, advertisements, letters to the editor, and/or press releases will be published at the discretion of the editor. At all times, the editor reserves the right to edit, amend, and/ or delete any and all information at will, with or without explanation.

The limit of liability of the Princeton Post-Telegraph takes no responsibility for advertising, legal and/or non-legal, not published.

The Princeton Post-Telegraph takes no responsibility for the non-publishing of news, letters to the editor, and/or press releases.

ALL garage sales (and similar sales) MUST be paid for in advance, unless you have an account that is in good standing.

SERVICES

Boyer Land Company LLC

Aaron Franklin, Sales Agent

Princeton, MO 64673 660-748-6314

YOUR REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST! 1-5-2023ufnP+C

I CAN HELP YOU STOP SMOKING!

Russell Jennings 706 Prichard Princeton, MO 660-748-4860

9-21-2023/9-12-20-24bPC

GUNS & AMMO

WOOD’S GUN SHOP

5 Miles South of Ravanna 660-748-5795

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday 1-5-2023-ufnP+C

HUNTING PROPERTY

WANTED: Looking for deer hunting lease or to buy in Harrison, Mercer, Putnam or Worth County for 2024 season and beyond. Will pay top dollar, not an outfitter. Fully insured, references available. 1-715-495-3241. 2-29-12tb (5-16)

NO HUNTING

NOTICE - Hunting and trespassing with dog and/or gun, trapping or fishing on land owned or leased by the undersigned is strictly forbidden. You are hereby warned to keep off these properties. Trespassers will be prosecuted.

No tresspassing for any reason on land that we own or lease. John & Linda Baughman. 9-28-23-52tpP+C

No hunting or trespassing on any land owned by Bill and Peggy Heck 9-15-22-52tbP+C

No hunting, fishing or trespassing on property owned, leased or rented by Joe and Victoria Ryan 4-27-23-52tpP+C

Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on Highland Farms land owned and operated by Dixie Berger, Joe Berger & Steve Berger. 5-18-23-52tpP+C

Absolutely NO TRESPASSING, including but not limited to hunting, fishing, hiking, mushroom hunting and drones on land owned and/ or rented by FRJ Family Farms, LLC 3-23-23-52tpP+C

Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on land owned by Barbara & LeRoy Hider 10-10-23-52tpP+C

NO HUNTING OR TRESPASSING on any land owned by LAKE MARIE PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION. 7-28-23-52tpP+C

No hunting or trespassing of any kind without permission on land owned by Diane Houk and Jenny Bomgardner. 9-28-23-52tpP+C

Absolutely NO TRESPASSING, including but not limited to hunting, fishing, hiking, mushroom and drones on land owned and/or rented by KRW5 Trust (Keith or RaeLynn Weaver) 10-5-23-52tbP+C

No hunting, trespassing or fishing on property owned, leased or rented by Shirley or Joe Don Pollard 4-19-24-52tpP

Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on Choate property at any time. 3-28-24-52tpP

Absolutely no hunting with guns or dogs, fishing, or trespassing on land owned by Berndt Farm and Berndt Twin Lake Inc 11-10-23-52tpP

No hunting or trespassing on Cox family property - Andy and Donna Cox, and Robert and Tina Cox. 12-3-20-104tpP

HAY

For Sale - 20 bales grass hay, $70 each; 91 bales CRP hay, $50 each. 660-2920139. 3-7-2tb

MOWING

Wanted - Someone to mow 2 empty lots. 660-946-4600. 3-7-2tb

Paper routes

From Page 4

burnt out (more than half of Gen Zers either have been diagnosed with or have been treated for a mental health issue), and having lost a sense of motivation and determination.

The well-established and long-standing virtue of hard work may be a fleeting memory of previous generations. The initial societal effect of a disappearing work ethic is being felt, and the long-term impact could be devastating.

Is there a silver lining in this devastating description of Gen Z? Well, not all Gen Zers meet this profile, which presents an incredible window of opportunity to those who are hard-working, responsible, motivated, and mature. These individuals will noticeably stand out amongst their peers, will be highly sought after by employers, and will have limitless possibilities in the marketplace.

Homelessness

From Page 4

in shelters, and people sleeping on someone’s couch. There’s actually a million-and-a-half veterans that are at the brink of homelessness, included in that brink is someone living in their car. So, the number is actually much larger than the number we count.”

Jim Whaley, a U.S. Army veteran and CEO of the Mission Roll Call advocacy organization, told the New York Post, “We are not doing a good job as a country in making sure that veterans are not homeless. We’re not doing a very good job of making sure they’re transitioning to civilian life in a successful manner.” For example, he said, when they leave their service they are faced with a variety of issues. In fact, he notes that “24% of all active-duty military personnel have food insecurity issues. When you look at the basic pay for a junior enlisted person when they first join the service, it’s just a few thousand dol-

lars over the poverty level. We can do better than that, and we need to as a country.” He says it’s not a surprise that our armed forces are having a hard time attracting recruits.

In fact, America’s armed forces are facing “an unprecedented recruiting crisis” and it’s no surprise, says Whaley. “How can we expect to recruit the next generation of volunteers? I don’t understand why the Department of Defense is surprised that they’re not getting recruitment calls.” They need “to do a better job of equipping service members for success in the transition to civilian life. We need to make sure businesses understand the value that veterans bring to the workplace.”

John Grimaldi is an editorial contributor with the Association of Mature American Citizens.

Work day

From Page 1

2024 ALL-HDC CONFERENCE BASKETBALL

Notes: All first-team members were unanimous selections. Players are listed here in the order they were provided.

GIRLS - First Team

Maddi Fisher, sr., Mercer; Emma Shipley sr., Mercer; Ava Langfitt, sr., Gilman City; Karlee Crouse, jr., East Harrison; Kinsley Allnutt, soph., Grundy County.

Second Team

Adysan Rains, jr., Grundy County; Zoie Williams, jr., Tri-County; Laina Ward, sr., Gilman City; Reiann Hampton, fr., Winston; Ashlynn Brown, jr., Mercer

Honorable Mention

Ericka Burke, sr., Gilman City; Shealyn Pliley, jr., Winston; Molly Milazzo, sr., Grundy County.

All-Defense

Emma Shipley, sr., Mercer; Molly Milazzo, sr., Grundy County; Landry Oaks, sr., Grundy County; Bailey Houk, jr., Mercer; Avery Gregg, soph., Gilman City.

Coach of the Year

Dan Owens, Mercer

BOYS - First Team

Levi Youtsey, jr., Winston; Zack Cross, sr., Grundy County; Corbin Axtell, sr., Grundy County; Tyler Meinecke, sr., Mercer; Landon Preston, jr., Gilman City.

Second Team

Hunter Miller, jr., Grundy County; Tate McClaran, sr., Grundy County; Camden Griffith, soph., Gilman City; Gabe Manning, soph., Tri-County; Brenden Wolfe, sr., Mercer

Honorable Mention

Brayden Watkins, soph., Winston; Wes Hashman, sr., Mercer; Kobe Hill, soph., Mercer; Keaton Norman, jr., Tri-County; Landon Willis, sr., East Harrison.

All-Defense

Levi Youtsey, jr., Winston; Zack Cross, sr., Grundy County; Landon Preston, jr., Gilman City; Gabe Manning, soph., Tri-County; Jayce Davis, sr., Mercer

Coach of the Year

Ty Stillwell, Grundy County. nior Center in Princeton between 8 and 8:30 a.m. to join a team project. Lunch will be provided. T-shirts will be available to those that register early. If you have helped before, use the Serve Mercer County yellow T-shirt from last year.

Elderly residents or those with medical needs are invited to register their projects for cleanup efforts by calling 660-748-4486. Yard projects are ideal. Tools and equipment can be arranged in advance to complete projects.

Monetary donations for lumber and supplies can be sent to Serve Mercer County, PO Box 711, Mercer, MO 64661.

To volunteer online go to www.servemercercounty.com.

COVID update

From Page 1

available regardless of insurance status.

An additional dose may be given four months following the first dose. If you have had a COVID-19 infection, you may consider delaying vaccination by three months from your symptom onset. As always, it is best to speak with your health care provider about the best option for you.

The Mercer County Health Department offers Moderna COVID-19 vaccines by appointment and at scheduled vaccination clinics. Call 660748-3630 for questions or more information.

Commission From Page 8

• Commissioners discussed the brush letter dated July 10, 2023 to Suzanne Eastin for brush along Almond Place in Lindley Township. A previous extension had been allowed through Oct. 10, 2023. Commissioners voted to

have Road & Bridge employees remove all brush on Almond Place within the county’s right-ofway in the public roadway. All brush is to be removed in the following two weeks to allow for spring agricultural work.

WMH senior program From Page 9

Families, friends, community members, physicians, self-referrals, or other health professionals can refer people to the program.

For more information, education, or to support the program, please call 660-357-4730 or visit www.saintlukeskc.org/ senior.

Prairie proposal From Page 5

for landowners.

About Roeslein Alternative Energy LLC

Roeslein Alternative Energy (RAE) is the owner, operator, and developer of renewable energy production facilities that convert agricultural and industrial wastes, along with renewable biomass feedstocks to renewable natural gas and sustainable co-products. RAE engages in these business operations with a focus on incorporating native prairie restoration. RAE recently merged with its parent company, Roeslein and Associates, in July 2023, with its principal offices located in St. Louis, Mo. RAE was launched in 2012 by Rudi Roeslein, co-founder and chairman of St. Louis-based Roeslein and Associates Inc. (a global leader in engineering, modular fabrication, and construction of industrial plant facilities). Visit their website, https://roesleinalternativeenergy. com/. You are also invited to explore Prairie Prophets at https:// prairieprophets.com/.

Audit

“clean” for

county From Page 12

mid-term salary increase for the sheriff in violation of the constitutional provisions, and the county has not developed a records management and retention policy that includes electronic communication. The county has indicated it is working to address both issues. A previous audit released in 2019 gave Carroll County a rating of “excellent,” which was the first time a county had received the highest rating possible.

Nine Cardinals recognized with All-HDC Conference honors

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

The Mercer High School basketball program had a total of nine players - five boys and four girls - who received some sort of All-HDC Conference honors in voting by the league’s coaches. Players chosen, from left:

In addition, girls’ coach Dan Owens was named the conference’s Girls’ Coach of the Year.

The complete list of All-HDC Conference players appears on Page 2.

Mercer’s Meinecke signs NLI with North Central basketball

Mercer

signed a national letter of intent to play basketball at North Central Missouri College (NCMC) in Trenton during a ceremony last Wednesday (March 6) in the school’s main gym. He’s flanked by his older sisters, Taylor (left) and Tori Meinecke; Tori recently completed her NCMC basketball career. Standing behind them are their parents, Tracy (left) and Mark Meinecke.

THANK YOU to these area businesses and professional people for their support of the Post-Telegraph’s SPORTS section!

BETTY WILLIS/Special to the Post-Telegraph

High School senior Tyler Meinecke (seated, center)

BOYS - Jayce Davis, all-defense; Wes Hashman, honorable mention; Brenden Wolfe second team; Tyler Meinecke, unanimous first team; and Kobe Hill, honorable mention.

GIRLS - Bailey Houk, all-defense; Ashlynn Brown second team; Maddi Fisher, unanimous first team; and Emma Shipley, unanimous first team and all-defense.

How commission meetings function

CHESTON EASTER

Special to the Post-Telegraph County Commission meetings are open for community input during previously posted, public forums. In Mercer County, these meetings are generally Monday mornings from 9 a.m. to noon, and if that falls on a holiday, the following Tuesday morning.

To bring issues before the commission, participants are encouraged to contact the County Clerk’s office by the preceding Thursday to have those items placed on the agenda in case of a full docket. Any items not formally listed on the agenda can be discussed, but no vote can be taken by commis-

GOVERNMENT

sioners, until the topic has been made available for public input. Beyond publicly posted meetings, commissioners regularly review township (gravel) roads and bridges; attend local, regional, and state meetings; attend to county-owned assets including the courthouse; and meet with constituents in person. Due to the limited size of the county courthouse, no regular office hours are available, but commissioners are present to meet on-site as needed by appointment.

Cheston Easter is Mercer County’s 1st District county commissioner.

But big bucks for illegal aliens

A short shift for America’s veterans

JOHN GRIMALDI

Special to the Post-Telegraph WASHINGTON, DC Not long ago many of us greeted veterans and active-duty soldiers, sailors and marines with a heartfelt “thanks for your service.” It made us feel good. But perhaps it should make us feel sad now that HUD, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, is reporting that there’s been a 7.4% increase in veteran homelessness. According to the Epoch Times, it means that “nearly 13 percent of the homeless adult population are veterans.” Yet, the newspaper notes, “national, state, and local governments continue to spend billions of dollars to house, feed, clothe, and provide medical care for millions of illegal immigrants.”

The Center for Immigration Studies [CIS] reports that “the annual cost just to care for and house the known gotaways and illegal aliens who have been

Thursday,

Friday,

Saturday,

COMMENTARY

released into the country could cost as much as an astounding $451 billion.” Meanwhile, according to Newsweek, “between 2010 and 2016 the numbers of homeless vets seemed to be shrinking but in 2023 there were 35,574 homeless vets on our streets, a 14% rise in the numbers of “unsheltered veterans.”

Kate Monroe, CEO of Vetcomm, a company that aids veterans with disabilities, told the publication that there are more homeless vets than meets the eye. “There’s the number of people that they consider to be homeless, and by homeless they mean they’re homeless, like in a tent on the street. What isn’t counted in the homeless numbers is the people sleeping in cars and people sleeping

See Homelessness, Page 2

Mostly sunny; 61/34

Sunday, March 17: Mostly sunny; 53

Coach Vince Lombardi

Gen Z - What’s a paper route?

JAMES THRASHER

Special to the Post-Telegraph GROVE CITY, Pa. Mike Rowe, the Dirty Jobs star and host of How America Works, has recently unloaded on Gen Z. Rowe said that the importance of hard work is on the way out, and we have seen the last days of a work ethic being a virtue. He said that work ethic, personal responsibility, delayed gratification, and a decent attitude were expected in the workplace, and those days are gone.

Gen Zers never had a paper route.

Delivering the Buffalo Evening News dry, on time, and left exactly in the right place for my customers, who regularly expressed exceptionally high expectations for me, forged my work ethic. The weekly charge was 55 cents, and I was taught to have change for a dollar in my hand when approaching every house. My mom would say, “It is wrong to force people to give you a tip because you don’t have change for their dollar bill. Present the 45 cents, and if they say keep the change, sincerely thank them.” I was ridiculed each week for getting change by the store owner where I picked up my papers.

The owner said, “Take their money,” to which I responded, “No sir, it’s not the right thing to do.” When reconciling each account on collection days, I had to show my mom that the collected amount was correct down to the last penny. All of this helped to define my character, integrity, and work ethic.

My Baby Boomer generation represents the children of the Greatest Generation. Both my parents lived through the Great Depression. As Boomers, we

FAITH & FREEDOM

were expected to work hard at an early age, believed in being loyal to one’s employer by giving more than a full day’s work, and believed in an employment philosophy of paying your dues. Growing up in my neighborhood meant doing daily chores, taking a paper route, mowing lawns, doing odd jobs, and having a job on Saturdays. This all began for us at the age of 14. On top of that, we took every opportunity to play outside, no matter the weather, learning the hard lessons of life. We loved real competition through Little League football and baseball, “Punt, Pass, and Kick” competitions, Junior Olympic wrestling, and basketball open gyms. This expected work ethic continued into our high school and college years, when we were now juggling many more responsibilities and jobs in the midst of academic and sports aspirations.

Times have changed.

It has become apparent that Gen Zers do not have this same work ethic. Gen Z has prompted a warning that societal norms are changing, and the importance of hard work is on its way out. A number of factors have brought about this change.

A contributing factor is the upbringing of Gen Zers. This generation has had everything scheduled for them and given to them. Their helicopter parents have wanted to know who, what, where, why, and how about every aspect of their child’s life. Gen Zers have created their own protective home cocoons, and social media has become their reality. They have experienced sports

without a score, COVID isolation, school shootings, participation trophies, mental health struggles, no responsibilities at home, an obsession with computer games, and CRT, DEI, and woke philosophies. These influential factors have truly affected them and their work ethic.

Gen Z is currently being hammered for its abysmal work ethic. There are major concerns about the newest entrants to the workforce. This assessment is being validated by educators, recruiters, employers, and recent survey data.

Educators have described this generation as the entitled generation, unwilling to put in the time and effort to achieve its full potential. Intelligent. com found that over 50% of employers and recruiters think that Gen Zers have inappropriate work attitudes and present unprofessional behavior in the recruiting process. A Resumebuilder.com survey reveals that 74% of business leaders report that Gen Z is more difficult to work with than any other generation.

Survey data of these very transparent Gen Zers paints a troubling picture. They describe their expectations as: high pay with fewer hours, more paid time off, a newly defined work-life balance, immediate earnings of $75,000 to $100,000 right out of college, flexible hours, working remotely, and immediate job recognition and rewards. In the realm of work, they describe themselves as having a lack of initiative, short attention spans, limited interpersonal skills, no moorings, being depressed and

See Paper routes, Page 2

Students from Princeton, Cainsville picked for GRM Youth Tour to D.C.

Special to the Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON Students selected to represent GRM Networks at the 2024 Foundation for Rural Service (FRS) Youth Tour to Washington, D.C., are Madalyn Tipton of Princeton, Mo., and Bree Vaughn of Cainsville, Mo. Tipton and Vaughn will travel to the nation’s capital this summer and join other youth representing rural telecommunications providers.

The FRS Youth Tour is an all-expense paid trip that brings together students from across the United States. Attendees will spend five ac-

RAE

tion-packed days learning about broadband applications in rural communities, tour famous historical sites and monuments, participate in team building exercises and create lifelong friendships. Tipton and Vaughn will hear from representatives from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and learn how the FCC’s role impacts and benefits rural America. They will also spend a day on Capitol Hill that includes meeting with staff and members of Congress from their congressional district.

Tipton and Vaughn are both juniors in high

school and active in school and community organizations. Tipton attends Princeton R-5 and is the daughter of Mike and Melanie Tipton. Vaughn is the daughter of Shane and Hilarie Vaughn and attends Cainsville R-1.

To be eligible for the tour, an applicant must be in high school and age 16 or 17 at the time of the tour. The applicant must also have a parent or legal guardian who is an active member of GRM Networks. Students are encouraged to start planning their application for next year by visiting grm. net/about-us/youthtour to review requirements.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

informational program draws 75 to hear about prairie proposal

Special to the Post-Telegraph

ALBANY, Mo. Roeslein

Alternative Energy (RAE) launched its Horizon II information session on March 1, attracting approximately 75 individuals eager to learn more about this innovative sustainable agriculture initiative.

A pilot project led by RAE seeks to lease 6,000 acres of highly erodible land this year in the Grand River basin of northern Missouri and Southern Iowa, ground that will ideally have previously been planted to soybeans. RAE will convert the land to native prairie, which will be sustainably harvested as feedstock to produce renewable energy. Horizon II will also provide incentives to grow cover crops on production agriculture land that will also be harvested for renewable energy.

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During the event at the Hundley-Whaley Extension and Education Center in Albany, Mo., RAE founder Rudi Roeslein outlined the company’s vision for Horizon II. He emphasized the project’s potential to transform highly erodible land into income-generating and environmentally restorative prairie landscapes, which are also exceptional wildlife habitat, benefiting both landowners and the wider community.

“Horizon II is about more than just renewable energy,” Roeslein explained. “It’s about providing environmental resources for our land, revitalizing rural economies, and creating a haven for wildlife. We’re excited by the positive response from landowners who share this vision.”

This multi-dimensional approach is significantly more beneficial than energy-only alternatives

like wind or solar. The RAE team received a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities program, which provides funding for the project.

Steve Mowry, RAE’s director of land development and prairie establishment, delved into the financial benefits for participating landowners. He explained the $160 per acre annual rent and additional revenue from harvesting prairie biomass.

Landowners will have no out-of-pocket cost for converting their participating acres to native prairie. The harvested

native prairie biomass will be feedstock to create renewable natural gas (RNG) at a Horizon II anaerobic digester system to be located in Gentry County, Mo.

The session concluded with a Q&A, giving attendees the chance to address their questions and concerns directly to the Horizon II team. The enthusiastic response illustrated the potential of this groundbreaking project to bring positive change to the region.

Landowners with highly erodible land interested in participating in Horizon II, especially those planning to plant soybeans in 2024, are

encouraged to contact Mowry directly at smowry@roesleinae.com or 816-830-6900.

About Horizon II

Horizon II is an $80 million, five-year pilot project funded by the USDA. It aims to demonstrate a market-based approach to sustainable

agriculture by planting prairie grasses and cover crops on highly erodible land. The project will produce renewable natural gas, enhance wildlife habitat, improve soil health, and offer various economic opportunities

See Prairie, Page 2

Madalyn Tipton

Bree Vaughn

These local students will represent GRM Networks at the 2024 Foundation for Rural Service Youth Tour to Washington, D.C.

Princeton Elementary announces February Character Kids

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Princeton Elementary School recently held its February awards assembly, and the pictured students received the Character Kid Award. The character word was “honesty” - being truthful in all words, acts, and deeds. This award was sponsored by W.R. Bickel Farms. Winners, from left: Savannah Weaver, kindergarten; Brycen Tatum, first grade; Madison Holt, second grade; Kruz Bowen, third grade; Rani Tudeen, fourth grade; Kenley Lowrey, fifth grade; and Ean Covey, sixth grade.

COMMISSION

MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION

Report taken from minutes of meetings of the Mercer County Commission.

All votes are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

Monday, March 4

• Minutes of the Feb. 26 meeting were approved as amended.

• The Feb. 29 payroll was approved.

• Bills were approved and paid.

• Commissioners received the February funds collected report from Assessor Dana Widner.

• Circuit Clerk and Recorder Tammy Crouse presented the February uniform disbursement record, receipt and disbursement report, and list of land transfers.

• Commissioners re-

ceived notification of dismissal without prejudice in Jose Lopez, in his capacity as Mercer County Sheriff, relator, vs. Mercer County, Missouri, and Jerry Allen in his capacity as Presiding County Commissioner, and Cheston Easter in his capacity as 1st District County Commissioner, and Zachary Martin in his capacity as 2nd District County Commissioner, Case No. 23AICC00005, dated Feb. 28.

• Commissioners and County Clerk Judy Hamilton signed a certified copy of order authorizing Collector/Treasurer Susan Moore to pay the following:

* $30.83 to Dish Network for TV in the sheriff’s office and jail (money taken from Sheriff’s

Special Fund #32); and

* $600 to the Missouri County Collectors Association for 2024 dues and conference training (money taken from TMF #34).

• Public Administrator Kelli Judd presented fees collected during February.

• Commissioners received the financial statements for Somerset Township for the year ending Dec. 31, 2023, both long and short forms, from Ann Widner, Somerset Township clerk.

• Commissioners received the report of motor fuel tax, motor vehicle sales tax and motor vehicle increases from the Missouri Department of Revenue, in the amount of $51,524.48,

SERVICES

Carole DeMoss

Princeton, Mo.

Carole Lee DeMoss, 89, Princeton, Mo., sadly left us on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024, following an illness.

Carole has been cremated under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home, Princeton. The family will hold a celebration of life on Saturday, March 16 from 1-4 p.m. at Country Rentals Event Center, Princeton.

Memorials may be made to Three Rivers Hospice and/or Northern Illinois Hospice in Carole’s memory, in care of Roberson Funeral Home, PO Box 316, Princeton, MO 64673.

Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.

SENIOR MENUS

received Feb. 23.

• The county received a certificate of training for 1st District Commissioner, dated March 2024, from the County Commissioners Association of Missouri.

• Commissioners received the annual report from Paula Fagan, Mercer County Library director.

• Lopez presented the February motor equipment expense report for himself and Deputy Randy Francis.

See Commission, Page 2

SUBSCRIBE to the Princeton Post-Telegraph TODAY!

from 11:30-12:15. Meals served with 2% milk, coffee or tea. All bread, rolls, buns and crackers are whole grain; at least half grains are whole grains. For meal deliveries, call 660-748-3636 by 10 a.m. Everyone is welcome to eat at the Senior Center. Meals for anyone age 60 and older are a suggested contribution of $5. Meals for anyone under age 60 cost $7.

Monday, March 18: bacon cheeseburger/ bun, peas and carrots, baked beans, apricot.

Tuesday, March 19: loaded baked potato (chili, beans, meat, cheese, bacon bits); broccoli, sliced bread, cutie oranges.

Wednesday, March 20: tuna noodle casserole, capri blend corn, fruit cocktail delight, PB marshmallow square.

All menus subject to change. MERCER COUNTY SENIOR CENTER

Serving from 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. Meals can be picked up at the west door (facing Broadway Street)

Thursday, March 21: frito pie (flour chips), chili (beef and beans), cauliflower salad, spiced pears.

Friday, March 22: pit ham, potato medley, calico beans, hot roll, assorted fruit, white cake, ice cream.

Princeton preschool enrollment open

Special to the Post-Telegraph PRINCETON, Mo. Princeton R-5 Preschool enrollment is now open for the 2024-25 school year. Students must be four years of age by Aug. 1, 2024. Enroll online by visiting the school website or Facebook page. You can also stop by the

elementary school office during school hours to pick up an enrollment form. Enrollment deadline is Monday, April 1.

If you have any questions contact Lacey Power at 660-748-3335, ext. 291, or Emily Voorhies at 660-748-3335, ext. 267.

Free storm spotter training at Milan

Special to the Post-Telegraph MILAN, Mo. Have you ever thought about becoming a storm spotter? Now is your chance. The Sullivan County Emergency Management Agency and the National Weather Service invite you to attend free storm spotter training.

The storm spotter class will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26 in the Milan Community Center, 205 North Market Street. The class will last approximately 1½ hours. It will be presented by an experienced meteorologist from the National Weather Service. Various

“Firefall”

aspects of severe weather, storm spotting, and weather safety will be presented.

The training is free and available to everyone, regardless of age, where you live, or education level.

Becoming an active, trained storm spotter is an excellent way to serve your community. While there is no personal commitment from attending this class, if you recognize hazardous weather on the horizon, you will be in a position to help warn your neighbors by calling 911.

It sure looks like someone set fire to a waterfall in California’s Yosemite National Park. But it’s a trick the sun plays on visitors each year at this time. Photographer Jay Huang says he’s been trying to capture what he calls the Yosemite's Horsetail Fall “firefall effect” over the years but this time he got it just right on video “in the last 30 minutes of sunset without any obstruction from clouds.”

Princeton Elementary February Students of the Month

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Princeton Elementary School recently held their February Awards assembly. During the assembly, the following students were recognized for being Students of the Month for February. From left: Logan Lopez, kindergarten; Kasen

WMH senior program named a program finalist

JORDAN FERGUSON

Special to the Post-Telegraph

TRENTON, Mo. Wright Memorial Hospital’s Senior Life Solutions has been named a 2023 Program Finalist of the Year Award by Psychiatric Medical Care, which manages the program.

Psychiatric Medical Care (PMC) partners with more than 250 hospitals and health systems across the country to provide behavioral health care services. Top-performing employees and Senior

Life Solutions programs are recognized annually based on their excellence in demonstrating PMC’s values of care, compliance, and community. Award recipients were chosen for providing outstanding patient care, excellent comprehension and execution of compliance regulations, and strong community engagement.

“It is truly an honor to be recognized as a national finalist for Program of the Year,” said Shelby

Todd, RN, program director, WMH Senior Life Solutions. “My team and I prioritize compliance and deliver high-quality care. Witnessing our patients’ positive progress during life-changing events and empowering them to overcome challenges is the ultimate reward for us. It’s why we do what we do each day.”

Wright Memorial Hospital’s Senior Life Solutions program supports the unique needs of individuals, typically 65

and older, experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief, and other mental health challenges that are often associated with aging. Senior Life Solutions program staff includes a board-certified psychiatrist, a nurse practitioner, a licensed therapist, a registered nurse, and other trained professionals to ensure each patient receives the best possible care.

See WMH senior program, Page 2

Collins, first grade; Carson Guy, second grade; Tanner Barger, third grade; Stella Easter, fourth grade; Harper Power, fifth grade; and Ean Covey, sixth grade.

Grazing milo saved Missouri cattle producer’s cow herd in drought

LINDA GEIST

University of MO Extension

GREEN RIDGE, Mo. Missouri cattle producer John Chamberlin didn’t want to sell his cows when drought lingered and hay supplies and forages dwindled last year.

With more than 600 head of Angus cows, Chamberlin looked to the internet for ideas. A University of Missouri Extension videoon the benefits of grazing standing milo intrigued him.

He called the video’s creator, agronomist Rusty Lee in Montgomery County, to learn more. With the help of Pettis County livestock specialist Gene Schmitz, they set up one-on-one Zoom training for Chamberlin at the MU Extension Center in Pettis County.

In spite of the drought, Chamberlin grew 115 acres of milo that made 80 to 90 bushels per acre. Lee and Schmitz then visited Chamberlin’s Henry County farm to see his operation, assess the grain yield and make recommendations on carrying capacity and daily allocation area size.

Lee, a longtime proponent of grazing of standing milo, wanted to help Chamberlin implement the alternative feeding plan that has worked for nearly a decade on Lee’s own farm and others in east-central Missouri.

Chamberlin was ready to take a leap of faith. “I

have no feed,” he told them. “If this milo thing doesn’t work, I’m going to have to sell cows.”

His gamble paid off.

Milo’s drought resistance and low cost make it a good option, especially when hay is scarce and expensive. It also solves the challenge of making hay in May, the month typically with the most rainfall. No longer do you have to worry about curing hay when there are clouds in the sky. “You just sit there and watch your milo grow,” says Lee.

Milo does best for grain production when planted May to early June. Planting can follow winter wheat, but Lee recommends allowing the full growing season. Using poly wire electric fencing, the producer moves cows daily to a fresh paddock. Lee describes it as “taking the cows to the feed rather than taking the feed to the cows.”

Producers also see another benefit. The herd’s urine and manure retain soil nutrients taken up by the plants, so the nutrients are not exported off the farm as bushels of grain.

Lee gives some math lessons in milo. An average milo yield of 120 bushels per acre is 6,720 pounds of grain. Taking into consideration the observed feeding losses of 25% as the cattle graze, that leaves 5,040 pounds per acre into the mouths

of cows. Allocating 12 pounds of grain per cow per day yields a carrying capacity of 420 cow days per acre.

Waiting two weeks after the fall killing frost before grazing avoids prussic acid concerns. Typically, a Nov. 1 start allows grazing all winter until the planted acres are consumed. While it is possible to graze milo until spring green-up of pastures, March winds combined with deteriorating stalk strength make it a good idea to conclude milo grazing by Valentine’s Day.

Chamberlin says cows adjust to moving to a new paddock each morning. They are ready and waiting for their owner to move the poly wire at daybreak. Cows with a “healthy respect” for electric fence do best in this setup, says Lee.

Chamberlin says the process is remarkably short - 20 minutes. That’s far less time than he would spend putting hay into rings or rolling it out on the ground.

Infrastructure needs such as water and fencing for rotational grazing remain, and fields may require some spring discing after cattle trample them. Milo shows little disease pressure in most of the

state, although southwestern Missouri has seen some aphids.

Composite forage tests of all plant parts consumed show total digestible nutrient values of 73%-75% and crude protein of 7%. That is adequate energy, but requires protein supplementation, says Lee. Various commodity feeds like soybean meal or high-quality hay can provide this.

Chamberlin said he moved cows off milo to shelter and fed them hay during extreme cold spells this winter.

At the end of the season, Chamberlin found that he got 375 cow days per acre on the 115 acres of milo he planted. Lee estimated yield between 80 and 90 bushels per acre.

“Milo grazing is economical compared to buying hay, especially this year,” says Chamberlin. “It’s always going to be a part of my program.” His only regret is that he didn’t plant more milo this year. In spring, he plans to broadcast a mix of cover crop seeds before planting milo again.

“It was a home run for me,” he says. Chamberlin says milo grazing saved him from buying 1,400 bales of hay this winter. Hay sold on the low end this year at $65 for a big

bale, which would have cost $91,000. On the higher end, at $125 per bale, that’s a savings of $175,000 for his herd. He also saved time and labor.

That’s why milo grazing is a practice you can bank on, says Lee. “He’s really putting money in his pocket.”

Lee gives these tips for planting milo for grazing:

• Wait until soil temperatures reach 60 degrees or more to plant.

• Don’t plant too thick.

Your goal is to grow grain, not forage.

• Use a pre-emergent herbicide for weed control. Once weeds emerge in milo, they are difficult to control.

• Have a fertility plan in place. A split application of 120-150 pounds of nitrogen does well. Test soil for phosphorus and potassium needs.

See Grazing milo, Page 11

Northwest to hold inauguration for Tatum April 19

Special to the Post-Telegraph

MARYVILLE, Mo. Northwest Missouri State University will celebrate the inauguration of its 11th president during an afternoon ceremony on Friday, April 19.

Northwest’s Board of Regents selected Dr. Lance Tatum to lead the University last year, and he began his tenure at the university on June 1, 2023.

The inauguration ceremony will begin at 1:30 p.m. in Bearcat Arena; doors to Lamkin Activity Center will open at noon. The event is open to the public and free to attend.

A reception with refreshments will follow the ceremony in the lobby of Lamkin Activity Center.

“Dr. Tatum’s tenure marks the beginning of a new legacy at Northwest - a legacy built on the foundation of courage, vision and determination,” Roxanna Swaney, the chair of the University’s Board of Regents, said. “As we embark on this journey together, let us remember that every great legacy starts with a single step. Together, let us take that step forward, guided by our shared commitment to excellence, innovation and the pursuit of knowledge.”

Inauguration ceremonies are a

long-standing tradition at institutions of higher education to celebrate the installation of presidents. The event provides colleges and universities with an opportunity to reaffirm historic commitments, introduce their community to the new president and raise awareness of the university’s mission.

In addition to the ceremonial installation of Tatum as the university’s president, the inauguration will feature music performed by the Northwest Wind Symphony and the Tower Choir and greetings provided by representatives of various Northwest organizations.

Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr., the chancellor of Troy University in Troy, Alabama, and a valued mentor to Tatum, will provide the event’s keynote address. Hawkins has served as Troy’s chancellor since 1989 and is the longest-serving chief executive officer of a public university in the United States.

For more information about the inauguration ceremony, as well as history and traditions related to the event, visit www.nwmissouri.edu/inauguration.

About Dr. Lance Tatum

Before he arrived at Northwest, Tatum had served as senior vice chancellor

for academic affairs and chief academic officer at Troy University since January 2019 while holding the rank of professor in its Sorrell College of Business-School of Hospitality, Sport and Tourism Management.

Tatum joined Troy University as a faculty member in 1998 and went on to serve as vice chancellor for its campus in Montgomery, Ala.; vice chancellor for its Global Campus; dean of the College of Education; and chairperson of the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion as well as a faculty athletics representative. Throughout his career, he held faculty positions in sport and fitness management at Troy University, and he began his academic career as an assistant professor of physical education at Gordon College in Barnesville, Ga.

He earned a Ph.D. in sport management at Florida State University. He has a master of science in education degree in foundations of education and a bachelor of science degree in physical education, both from Troy University.

Tatum and his wife, Jill, have two children, Thad and Zoe, who attend Auburn University in Alabama.

Dr. Lance Tatum

Grazing milo From

Page 10

• Don’t force cows to graze to the dirt. Ideally, cows eat to about 18 inches of stalk residue within two hours.

• Lee’s experience shows that milo for grazing performs best when planted in 30-inch rows.

• Choose milo varieties for closed heads and good stalk strength or lodging scores.

See Lee’s video at https://youtu. be/8Unian-UnOU.

Here’s how cattle producers can reduce hay waste when supply is low

ELIZABETH PICKING

University of MO Extension

COLUMBIA, Mo. After two years of droughts in Missouri, hay supplies are low, with many producers feeding hay during the summer months and lacking the pasture growth to get the tonnage comparable to previous year’s hay crops. Many producers in southern Missouri reported 50%-75% reductions in first-cutting hay crops in 2023. With such a low availability of hay in the state and high input costs, the price of hay has increased, which adds insult to injury for livestock producers. Minimizing hay waste should be at the forefront of the minds of producers this winter.

Here are some tips to reduce hay waste: Reduce waste from rot caused by outside storage Storing hay inside a barn is the gold standard for storage. If hay is not rained on, it will maintain its quality indefinitely apart from vitamins A and E, which can reduce slightly over time. When hay is stored outside and allowed to be rained and snowed on, spoilage occurs on the outer edge of the bale. Even a couple inches of external spoilage can account for major losses of valuable hay for livestock.

While reducing loss during storage is important, not all farms have ad-

equate barn storage for all of their hay. In this case, producers should consider how they can minimize moisture exposure on the top of bales as well as from the ground.

Stacking bales in a pyramid shape and covering with tarps is a great way to reduce weathering from rain and snow. Also, storing bales on pallets, railroad ties, or a raised gravel or concrete pad is an excellent way to reduce spoilage of the bale from ground moisture. Further, if storing round bales in rows, farmers should leave a few feet in between the rows to allow for better airflow and to prevent rain pooling and seeping into the bales

when the rounded edges of the bales are touching. Consider hay feeders or unrolling Most farmers would agree that giving any type of livestock access to a bale of hay without a feeder leads to more

waste. Research shows that feeding without some type of hay feeder can result in upwards of 45%-57% wastage, depending on the class of livestock and the number of animals. While there is a plethora of hay feeders

available at varying price points, using any type of hay feeder will reduce hay waste compared to no feeder. Within the many round bale feeder op-

See Reducing hay waste, Page 12

Carroll County audit rated “good”

County Commission granted sheriff a raise mid-term, which is not allowed by constitution Special to the Post-Telegraph

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.

State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick recently released a regularly scheduled audit of Carroll County that gives the county a rating of “good.” The rating indicates the county is well managed and officials are already working to implement the recommendations contained in the report.

“It’s good to see the Carroll County Commission and all the elected officials in the county are

operating in a way that is transparent and accountable,” Fitzpatrick said.

“The people of Carroll County are fortunate to have a county government that is responsive to their needs and willing to work with our office to implement recommendations that will make them even more effective and efficient.”.

The audit found the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office has not segregated accounting duties or performed adequate supervisory reviews of detailed accounting records, nor does the office prepare bank reconciliations or

monthly lists of liabilities.

The office also has failed to consistently retain copies of voided receipt slips, and does not always deposit receipts timely.

Additionally, Sheriff’s Office personnel do not maintain a complete and accurate seized property inventory listing. The report notes the office agrees with the findings and are either working to implement, or have already implemented, all of the recommendations.

The audit report also found the County Commission authorized a

See Audit, Page 2

Reducing hay waste when supply is low

tions, choosing a ring that has an enclosed bottom or one that suspends the bale off the wet ground will help reduce waste.

Some producers prefer to unroll their hay on their pastures. This is an excellent option for more evenly distributing hay waste and manure across the pasture. Taking advantage of this fertilizer wrapped up in net wrap can make improvements to the soil over time.

However, when multiple days’ worth of hay is unrolled at once, unrolling hay can have upwards of 40% waste. Producers should consider unrolling only one day’s worth of hay at a time, reducing that waste to around 12%. Feed less hay more often

Another way to stretch

an operation’s hay supply and reduce waste is to feed smaller amounts of hay more often. Feeding one day’s worth of hay will reduce the waste compared to feeding three days’ worth.

Most livestock should consume 2%-3.5% of their body weight in dry matter every day. Calculating daily intake depends on the stage of production of the animals and size of the animals. For example, heavy bred cows that average 1300 pounds will eat about around 2.5% of their bodyweight in dry matter per day. Assuming these cows are being fed hay that is 90% dry matter and 10% moisture, here’s how to do the math:

• 1,300 lb. cow X 0.025

SCHOOL FOOD

All menus subject to change.

PRINCETON

Breakfast is available to all students. It is served with a choice of 1% white milk or skim chocolate milk. Cereal is available as an option every day except where noted. Fruit and juice are available every day. Nutri-grain bars are available on select days.

Monday, March 18: blueberry muffin, yogurt.

Tuesday, March 19: pancakes, sausage patty.

Wednesday, March 20: breakfast pizza.

Thursday, March 21: pancake on a stick.

Friday, March 22: biscuits, sausage gravy.

From Page 11

= 32.5 lbs. of dry matter/ day

• 32.5 lbs. of dry matter / 0.9 = 36 lbs. as fed/cow/ day

Ultimately, waste happens during storage as well as feeding and can be utilized as fertilizer for pastures. However, if the goal is to reduce waste, producers should consider how they can minimize moisture infiltration of the bales during storage and feeding. Farmers should also aim to limit the amount of hay that animals can bed down in and defecate on by using a hay feeder and by feeding less hay more often.

Lunch is served with the choice of 1% fat-free white milk or fat-free chocolate milk. Students in grades K-5 have the choice of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or the menu entree. Students in grades 6-12 have the option of a chef salad or the entree every day unless noted. All bakery items are whole wheat or whole grain. Fruit is served with lunch.

Monday, March 18: hamburger or corn dog, potato wedges, red peppers.

Tuesday, March 19: General Tso’s chicken or grilled chicken patty, California blend, brown rice.

Wednesday, March 20: parmesan chicken or BBQ chicken sandwich, macaroni and cheese, green beans, fruit salad.

Thursday, March 21: taco or bean and cheese burrito, Spanish rice,

black beans.

Friday, March 22: tenderloin sandwich or fish sandwich, french fries, baby carrots, dessert.

MERCER

Breakfast is served with orange juice and white or chocolate milk. Cereal is an optional entree.

Mondays: egg entree. Tuesdays: cereal, toast. Wednesdays: breakfast roll. Thursdays: sausage, pancakes. Fridays: biscuits, gravy.

Lunch is served with milk. A salad bar and fruits and vegetables are available every day, except where noted. Students in grades PK-6 will have the choice of option A or a chef salad. Students in grades 7-12 will have the choice of either option or a chef salad.

Monday, March 18: a) tenderloin sandwich; b) turkey sandwich; sun chips.

Tuesday, March 19: a) ham; b) popcorn chicken; mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, roll.

Wednesday, March 20: a) shrimp; b) hamburger; fries.

Thursday, March 21: a) chicken alfredo, garlic bread; b) meatball sub; carrots.

Friday, March 22: a) fish; b) chicken nuggets; corn.

CAINSVILLE Breakfast is served with fruit, juice, and milk.

Mondays: breakfast burrito, cereal, toast.

Tuesdays: french toast with syrup and peanut butter, turkey sausage. Wednesdays: cereal, toast, hash brown patty, scrambled eggs. Thursdays: pancake, turkey sausage. Fridays: biscuits, gravy.

Lunch is served with milk. Fruits and vegetables are available every day, and students are required to have at least one cup of either on their tray.

Monday, March 18: salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, corn.

Tuesday, March 19: turkey and cheese wrap, chips.

Wednesday, March 20: chicken legs, scalloped potatoes, green beans.

Thursday, March 21: chili, peanut butter and honey sandwich.

Friday, March 22: fish, buttered potatoes, peas.

CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS

The Princeton PostTelegraph strives for accuracy and fairness in all of its news stories and photo captions. If you feel we have made an error, please contact us at 660748-3266 or posttele@ grm.net (email) to request a correction. If it is found we are in error, we will be happy to publish a correction or clarification.