Austin Cameron Bruce
Austin Cameron
Bruce passed away unexpectedly on March 12, 2025, at his home in Kansas City, Missouri. He was 32.
Austin was born September 17, 1992, in Carrollton, Texas, to parents Robert and Kelly (Murphy) Bruce. No baby boy was ever more loved or wanted. He was an immediate family favorite and was given nicknames like “Tweety” and “Austin from Dallas”. His mother called him “Manny”. His brother, Riley, arrived less than two years later, completing the family and ushering in golden times for the Bruces. The family migrated north to Columbia, Missouri, where they lived for a number of years before settling back home near family in western Putnam County.
Austin had a very happy childhood, and enjoyed playing with his brother and his cousin, Morgen Murphy, who was like a second brother. He liked fishing, video games, riding the family go cart and learning Taekwondo. He loved his dog, Chelsea. He spent several years in Boy Scouts. Austin was blessed with a love of learning and was a voracious reader. From a young age, he was exceptionally curious about a multitude of subjects. As a youth, he won spelling bees and taught himself to play guitar. Austin accepted Christ as a youth, and the family rests in the assurance that they will see him again.
He graduated from Putnam County High School in 2011 and later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a Minor in Spanish and International Stud-
ies from the University of Missouri. He married his college sweetheart, Xiaotong Lu (Lulu), on June 16, 2016, in Linyi City, China. The pair lived in China for a year before returning to the States. Austin loved the Chinese people and culture.
Austin had a stellar work ethic, landing his first job working for the NEMR Help Desk during his high school years. While still in college he began working for the Columbia office of a U.S. Congresswoman. He found great satisfaction in helping constituents, especially veterans, with problem resolution. After college he worked for Burrell Behavioral Health in Columbia as a case worker and later taught English as a second language online for many years, befriending several of his clients with whom he maintained regular contact. Upon moving to Kansas City, Austin eventually switched career paths and began working for Fowler, Pickert, Eisenmenger, Norfleet as a Legal Assistant.
Austin was blessed with a great sense of empathy. He advocated for anyone marginalized by society and wanted the best for his fellow man. He had a heart of gold and not a mean bone in his body. He was a passionate debater but would listen to opposing viewpoints with genuine interest. He was very informed about current events and enjoyed lively discussions pertaining to whatever was going on in the world at any given time.
The Bruce family loved to travel, both domestically and abroad, and it is a love Austin carried into adulthood. Together the family hiked, snorkeled and parasailed at some of the most beautiful locations in the world. Austin embraced the opportunity to experience different cultures. His last trip was a solo journey to South Korea and China in 2024. He was an adventurer and particularly enjoyed exotic culinary experiences
Austin loved animals, but none more than his rescued white Lab, Bruce. Their relationship and bond was evident to any and all who saw them together. Bruce comforts Austin’s family now.
Austin was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Bill and Barbara Bruce, his maternal grandfather Richard Murphy, Aunt Kristi Murphy, Uncles Kent Murphy and William Bruce, Jr., and cousin Jake Hollon. Left to mourn his passing are his wife “Lulu”, parents, brother Riley, Grandmother Kathy Murphy
and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral services were held at the Thomas Funeral Home in Unionville, Missouri, on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, with a visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m., followed by services at 2:00 p.m. The family requests donations to the Jake Hollon Memorial Scholarship in lieu of flowers and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Bruce Family, 709 S. 27th St. Unionville, MO 63565. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh. com or www.facebook. com/thomasfuneralhome.
Victor Van Dyne
Victor C. Van Dyne, 93, of Mascoutah, IL, born Jan. 30, 1932, in Unionville, MO, died Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at Evercare of Lebanon.
Vic was a retired school superintendent from the Mascoutah School District, a longtime member of the Mascoutah Lions Club and a U. S. Army veteran. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Nettie, nee Smith, Van Dyne, his
wife, V. Elizabeth, nee McCartney, Van Dyne, a son, Terry Van Dyne and a sister, Louise Van Dyne.
Vic is survived by his son, Jeff (Colette) Van Dyne and a granddaughter, Jennifer Van Dyne. Memorials may be made to Mascoutah Senior Center, 227 N. Market St., Mascoutah, IL 62258. Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting mollfuneralhome.com
VISITATION: From 9 to 11 AM Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at Moll Funeral Home in Mascoutah, IL.
FUNERAL: A funeral service was held at 11 AM on Tuesday March 18, 2025, at Moll Funeral Home with Pastor Andrew Anthony officiating. Burial followed in Mascoutah City Cemetery.
The Ruby Slippers - The so-called movie buff thief who stole Judy Garland’s “Wizard of Oz” slippers 20 years ago apparently believed that the shoes were bejeweled with real rubies, according to the Associated Press. In 2005 the thief shattered the display case in the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota and stole the iconic footwear. The shoes “were recovered in a sting operation after a man approached the shoes’ insurer and said he could help get them back.”
Report
This map indicates the average weekly wages for Putnam County fall between $800-$899 per week. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
On March 14, the Mountain-Plains Information Office of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released County Employment and Wages in Missouri – Third Quarter 2024. The report shows national rankings of wage levels, wage growth, and employment changes for the seven large counties in Missouri compared to the 369 largest counties in the United States. The report also provides employment and wage levels for the 108 counties in Missouri with employment levels below 75,000. Assistant Commissioner for Regional Operations Michael Hirniak noted the following highlights: Employment rose in 6 of the 7 largest counties and county equivalent in Missouri from September 2023 to September 2024. Greene County had the largest over-theyear increase in employment at 1.8 percent.
All seven large Missouri counties reported average weekly wage gains. Boone County had the largest gain (+5.6 percent).
Weekly wages in 6 of the 7 largest counties in Missouri were below the national average of $1,394 in the third quarter of 2024. Average weekly wages in three large counties ranked among the top half nationwide: St. Louis City ($1,498, 59th), St. Louis ($1,374, 105th), and Jackson ($1,354, 113th). Among the 108 smaller counties in Missouri— those with employment below 75,000—Buchanan ($1,123) reported the highest average weekly wage. Ozark County ($610) reported the lowest average weekly wage in the state, followed by Ripley County ($611). (See map 1 above.)
Additional Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW) data resources: [https://data. bls.gov/PDQWeb/en} Data query tool for employment and wages by detailed industry for all states and counties Data lookup tool/table creator by cross-section; geography, NAICS sector, establishment, and historical map creation tool (beta)
University Extension Pearls of Production Committee to Offer Virtual Sessions for Women Livestock Producers
University of Missouri Extension’s Pearls of Production committee is hosting five virtual sessions for women livestock producers across the state over the next few months. Although the content is created for women producers, all producers are welcome to attend.
The first “Pixels for Production” session is 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 25, and focuses on small ruminants like goats and sheep. “Without proper biosecurity measures, diseases can spread rapidly, leading to production losses, increased veterinary costs and even livestock mortality,” said David Brown, MU Extension small ruminant specialist. In addition, Charlotte Clifford-Rathert, DVM, will discuss when to call a veterinarian for small ruminants during her talk, “When to Dial the Doc”.
“We’re introducing ‘Chick-Chat,’ a 20-minute session prior to the start of each virtual session (6:40 p.m.) to talk with other producers,” said Heather Conrow, MU Extension livestock specialist and Pearls of Production committee chair. “If virtual sessions aren’t your cup of tea, we are also providing ‘barn locations’ to attend the session from a local extension office. During registration, you will be able to list the counties you would be interested in traveling to.” Barn locations are in Lewis, Howard, Callaway, Wright, Ray, Atchison
and Jackson counties.
“We are hoping to meet women where they are for five different sessions and then come together for the in-person Pearls of Production conference November 8th at the University of Missouri Beef Farm to learn hands-on techniques, network with other women and make connections that last the entire year – until the next conference, when we can do it all over again,” said Conrow. Dates and topics of the other virtual sessions:
June 24 – Beth Koster, MU outreach coordinator, “Stop the Bleed,” injury awareness.
July 22 – Allison Meyer, MU associate professor of nutritional physiology/ruminant nutrition, “Feeding and Managing Pregnant Beef Cows and Heifers for Calf Success.”
Sept. 23 – Andrea Pitkin, DVM, Vaxxinova US, “Gut Health Issues? Let’s Talk About SRP, a Novel Technology.”
Oct. 28 – Joni Harper, MU Extension specialist, “Heroes to Hives,” helping veterans and women producers establish beekeeping. For more information on the conference and registration details, visit our webpage: https:// extension.missouri.edu/ programs/pearls-of-production or contact Brenda Schreck, MU Extension Livestock Specialist in Lewis County at 573767-5273 or schreckb@ missouri.edu.
1615 Union Street ~ Unionville, Mo 63565 660-947-3463 Miller Farm & Business www.millerfb.com
Job Opening
The Putnam County Clerks office is accepting applications for the following position: DEPUTY COUNTY CLERK
A brief summary of the job duties are as follows but not limited to:
•Data entry
•General Office Duties
•Budgeting
•Financials such as accounts payable and payroll
•Assist County Clerk with elections
•Assist County Clerk as needed
Qualifications:
•Self-motivated and detail oriented
•Strong interpersonal skills for public interaction
•Excellent organizational skills
•Proficient in computer operations.
•Must be able to lift 50lbs (election equipment)
•Must be able to identify and maintain confidential information.
Applications may be obtained in the County Clerk’s Office at 1601 Main Street, Room 101, during business hours 8:30 am-12 pm and 1 pm-4:30 pm. For questions about the position, please call 660-947-2674. Applications will be accepted until March 24th 2025. Please keep in mind the county does NOT offer health insurance benefits. Putnam County Courthouse is an EOE.
MO Attorney General Andrew Bailey Enforces Pro-life Law on Chemical Abortions, Protecting Women From an Increasingly Unregulated Abortion Industry
The following statement is from Susan Klein, Executive Director, Missouri Right to Life:
This week Attorney General Andrew Bailey served a cease and desist order to Planned Parenthood to stop doing chemical abortions until a complication report has been filed with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. Abortion drugs are dangerous and women have had many complications from these chemical abortions. Even the FDA has recognized this and issued a warning label about the dangers of taking these drugs.
The abortion industry has proven that they really don’t care about women’s safety. Two examples of this are; first and most recently, the lawsuit asking for removal of licensing and commonsense health and safety regulations in abortion clinics. The health and safety standards removed through the court as of February 17, 2025 via a lawsuit:
* That only doctors perform abortions (GONE)
* Follow all acceptable sterilization standards for surgery instruments and equipment (GONE)
* Abortion provider is to perform a sufficient examination of the patient to determine the unborn child’s gestational age, identify preexisting medical or other complications and detect any factors which could influence the choice of the procedure, anesthesia or preoperative or postoperative management (GONE)
* That ultrasounds
only be performed by doctors or licensed medical technicians (GONE)
* Have emergency trays equipped to treat seizures, bleedings, anaphylactic shock, respiratory arrest, and cardiac arrest (GONE)
* Have emergency drugs, oxygen, and intravenous fluid in a surgical procedure room along with a manual breathing bag and suction machine (GONE)
* Requirement that facilities for surgical abortion have adequate scrub up facilities, that the sterilizing room be equipped with a steam sterilizer and that there are sufficient surgical instruments sterilized and available for each patient who presents herself for an abortion (GONE)
The second example is in the history of Planned Parenthood in Missouri. Planned Parenthood was shut down for a time when they were found, through inspections by the Department of Health and Senior Services, that they had rusty equipment, expired drugs and improper records on staffing.
We thank Attorney General Bailey for fighting to protect women and babies from the abortion provider known as Planned Parenthood.
This dangerous situation for women and babies can only be fixed by “Repealing and Replacing” Amendment 3.
Missouri citizens were told by Amendment 3 supporters and Planned Parenthood that these things would not happen. Missouri Right to Life warned of these dangers that are now coming to pass.
THANK YOU
Gary and Mitzie want to say, “Thank you” to all those who have recently expressed “Congratulations” to Gary on his retirement! Many of you stopped by his Retirement Celebration, sent cards, gave gifts, called him or expressed your regrets that you were unable to attend the party.
We feel blessed to live in this community!
NOTICE OF PUBLIC TEST
Please be advised there will be a public test to ascertain that the voting equipment to be used on April 8th, 2025, Election Day is in compliance with the law and will correctly count the votes cast for all offices and on all questions. This is being done in compliance with Chapter 115.233 Revised Statues of Missouri and will be held March 25th, 2025, at 9:00 A.M. in the Putnam County Court House Old Soldiers Room.
Back in the Day
By Ross Malone
March 19, 1945 –Herbert Hoover Burr from St. Joseph drove his flaming tank right over the anti-tank gun emplacement that was holding up his unit’s progress. He earned the Medal of Honor. Audie Murphy said Burr was the only man to earn the honor just for reckless driving.
March 20, 1929 –Cars and Trucks were being auctioned for bargain prices in Kansas City. They had been seized by and forfeited to Federal Prohibition Agents.
March 21, 2006 –Jack Dorsey who grew up in St. Louis and went to school at the Missouri University of Science and Technology, started a little telephone network service for dispatching couriers. He called it Twitter.
March 22, 1893 – It was reported that a “lady traveling man” was traveling around Missouri selling for a St. Louis
MoDOT ...
wholesale grocer. The female salesperson was astounding others by selling as well as any of the men.
March 23, 1903 – Automobile license plates came to Missouri on this day. The same legislation set a state speed limit of nine miles per hour and required automobiles to sound a horn or a bell before passing a horse-drawn vehicle.
March 24, 1911 –Legislation was signed and bond issues awarded on this day for the building of our present Capitol Building. The Capitol dome towers 400 feetabove the Missouri River.
March 25, 1904 – On this date the most popular and famous people at the World’s Fair arrived by train. They were the dog-eating, head-hunting, “wild people” from the Philippines. For information about Ross Malone’s Missouri Books, visit www.RossMalone.com .
Continued from pg. 1
outlined in the current plan – including making investments in infrastructure that keep travelers safe and spur economic growth, giving Missourians more transportation choices and reducing congestion on the current system – while determining the goals and direction of the next 25 years.
The SFRP serves as a comprehensive assessment of Missouri’s freight and passenger rail systems and determines short-term and longterms goals for improving the state’s freight and rail infrastructure. Updates to the SFRP will include an analysis of the economic impact of Missouri’s public ports and passenger rail systems, an analysis of the truck parking system and the identification of critical supply chains that move the state’s economy.
The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete and allows Missourians to help in-
form the priorities and goals of both plans. The survey can be accessed at: Home | MoDOT Long-Range Transportation Plan and State Freight & Rail Plan on a computer, smartphone or tablet. Those needing access to a computer and/ or internet connection are encouraged to visit their local public library. The survey will be open through Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Drafts of the LRTP and SFRP will be available for public comment in early 2026. The final plans will be presented to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for review and consideration later in 2026. Additional questions about the survey and planning process for both plans can be addressed by calling 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636), or by mail at Transportation Planning, P.O. Box 270, Jefferson City, MO 65102.
LLC Milan, MO 63556 ~ 660-265-4497~ themowershopagrepair.com~
16840 MO - 5,
Continued from pg. 8
companies’ applications for CWIP charges. Additionally, if the plant being paid for with CWIP charges never goes into operation, consumers would receive a refund, including interest, he said.
Cierpiot has received tens of thousands in campaign donations for energy and utility organizations to his campaign and Political Action Committee.
Cierpiot, as well as others who testified in favor of the bill, said that the CWIP legislation would incentivize increased construction of power plants in the state.
Jason Klindt, senior director of external affairs at Evergy, said this increased construction could make it so Missouri energy companies wouldn’t need to buy power from outside of the state. Evergy is the energy supplier for Kansas City and a large portion of the western part of the state.
Klindt noted that because of high energy demand nationally and low supply, the cost to buy power has greatly increased.
“Having the ability to control your own generation and being able to not have to buy off the market is going to be incredibly important for not having those opportunities where you have to buy at a ‘nuts’ price,” Klindt said.
Warren Wood, a representative for Ameren Missouri, said if Missouri energy companies increased capacity in the state, businesses would also be attracted to the state.
“The key criteria that’s not met is the broad capacity to bring these customers to the state,” Wood said. “They
very much want to be here. We have a good, low electric rates. They see the reliability of the system and they want to be here but they are saying ‘When are you gonna have the capacity online?’”
Earlier this year, Ameren, which is the largest energy provider in the state, proposed 15% increases to utility rates that on average would cost consumers an additional $17 per month. The increased rate has yet to be approved by the Public Service Commission.
This past December, the Public Service Commission reported that 170,000 Missourians were behind on their Ameren payments.
William Wallace, president of Missouri Veterans Endeavor, said many veterans struggle to make utility payments.
“One debt that literally all of our homeless veterans have is utility debt,” Wallace said. “Utility debt is a huge, huge contributor to homelessness.”
Wallace and others who spoke against the bill worried about the effect of increased CWIP charges on utility rates, saying that increased rates could have be detrimental for individuals with disadvantages.
John Coffman, the utilities counselor for the Consumers Council of Missouri, said that this bill would lead to the largest utility rate increase in Missouri history. In a news release from the council, the nonprofit estimates that combined gas, electric and water rates could increase by $1,115 annually per household if the legislation is passed.
The figure present-
Birthdays
ed by the Consumers Council of Missouri was called into question by Wood, Ceirpiot and Klindt during each of their testimonies. Wood said during his testimony that building costs passed onto consumers through CWIP would account for a small percentage of consumers’ rates.
Rich Germinder, a senior advisor to the Missouri Public Service Commission, empha-
sized that Missouri is in need of more energy production following shortage reports from Midcontinent Independent System Operator and Southwest Power Pool, which operate grids in Missouri and other states.
“We are seeing historic load growth projections that it is important for us to get our hands around, and we have a duty to respond,” Germinder said.
My Side of the Desk
Karen Bradshaw
The second genealogy workshop will be held this Saturday, March 22, at 10 AM at the Putnam County Historical Society Museum. The first workshop was held last Saturday and Lois Brummer will again be leading the workshop.
A lot of interesting discussions happen in the museum. Lowell Brown stopped in on Wednesday, March 12, to check some census records. He shared that years ago he had worked for the Assessor’s office and had several special pens and tools for his job. This led to a mention of fountain pens, which led to a step in the development and refinement of fountain pens in the back of the Monroe Drug Company building, AKA the old Subway building, which is currently being demolished. By the way that development of a lever-filled pen led to the formation of the Shaeffer Pen Company
is a chance that the Paris store was known as something besides the stationery store since they also carried wallpaper and that is just what my grandmother called it. By the time I started grade school, I believe it was a beauty shop.
Just a reminder, I am always looking for interesting bits of history, historical pictures and other information to be included in the museum’s commemorative issues published each December. For example, did you know that Davy Crockett once had forty acres in eastern Putnam County? I learned this at church on Sunday and will have to check with Lowell for more details. If you have history to share, whether family or general, please do!
Send additions/Corrections to: urep@nemr.net
Thursday, March 20
FIRST DAY OF SPRING, Ryan Dover, Brandi Roof, Shannon Bain, Jamie Tipton, Audrey Dodsworth, Gage Pearson, Trace Halley
Friday, March 21
Alison Casady, Stacy Hamilton, Jerry Knight, Colleen Ryals, Janet Williamson Rector, Anna Marie Ryals, Shayla Spring, Shayna Kinzler, Olivia Vice, Leif Graham, Kera Jellison, Aiden Ryals, Sara Worley
Saturday, March 22
Cindy Reasbeck, Patty Rouse, Ty Couchman, Aurora Jones, Talon Henderson, Greg Kelli-
son, Tory Weston, John Tietsort, Brandon McCanles, Quincy Klingner, Noah Ray
Sunday, March 23
Bob Varner, Melody Crow, Taylor Stacy, J. C. Davis, Mona Wood, Judy Green
Monday, March 24
Lora Lowe, Danny Trent, Cole Williams
Tuesday, March 25
Karrie Exline, Tim Probasco, Kelly Busker, Molly Knowles, Bev Volkner, Tim Wood, Amber Andersen
Wednesday, March 26
Kartlin Worth, James Rhoades, McKinley Hurley, Shanna Smith, Trace Eddy
Sometimes those discussions lead to my mind taking its own journey down memory lane or in other words wandering. At about age four, I remember going to the stationery store in Paris, MO, with my grandmother to purchase a bottle of ink. Did Unionville have a stationery store? In researching for the commemorative issues, I have never come across a mention of one. In addition to stationery and writing supplies, the Paris stationery store also carried women’s hats and there were at least two different millinery shops in Unionville. Since I wasn’t old enough to read yet, there
By the way, we are in the midst of Sunshine Week, March 16-22, in Missouri and throughout the US. It is a time to celebrate government transparency because only by seeing how decisions are made can we truly be informed about how – or if – our government is working for us. This short video sums up how important the Missouri Sunshine Law is for every person in our state: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Lky8ayoq_0.
Sunshine Week is a nonpartisan collaboration among groups in the journalism, civic, education, government and private sectors that shines a light on the importance of public records and My Side ... Cont. to pg. 6
Giving Secrets
Jesus said, “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” Those words sound confusing, but Jesus went further and explained, “So that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees in secret, will reward you.” (Matthew 6:3-4) Those are the words of our Lord. I believe them and will try to follow them. Still, I wonder why He said them. Let me share some thoughts.
Jesus’ instructions are consistent with His teaching that Christianity begins in the heart and then flows outward. His words are not only true but quite practical. Being wealthy is not a sin; but flaunting one’s wealth to intimidate or control is certainly sinful. The opposite of that can also be true. It is common for people to announce, “I’m just a poor working stiff; I can’t do anything.” That is a cop-out. There are many ways to give without being wealthy.
Jesus indicated if you “parade” your giving, the “parade” is your blessing. On the other hand, if one gives secretively the Lord rewards you. Giving to/for someone with no one knowing but you and God is mysteriously satisfying. My wife and I once made a significant gift to a needy family. Circumstances were such if the recipients ever learned who gave it, our relationship would be in jeopardy. We made the gift through their church with the pastor’s solemn promise not to reveal the giver. Later, the father in that family tearfully told me how some anonymous person had helped him. I smiled, inwardly thanked God, and felt blessed.
Organizations, including churches, often have a “secret pal” ministry. The goal is to give a gift without the recipient knowing who gave it. The ministry can be surprisingly effective. Jesus promised God would bless the secret giver. May we all be recipients of this promise.
While in college, I was pastor of a church in the country. Although most of our members were hardworking farmers with limited means, it was common for me to find mysterious garden gifts in my car before heading home. I seldom knew who brought them, but they were a blessing for my wife and me.
Thursday, March 20
Ham & Great Northern Beans, Cubed Potatoes, Cole Slaw, Corn Bread, Fruit Crisp
Friday, March 21
Buffet & Salad Bar, Baked Fried Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Yankee Green Beans, Assorted Fruits/Desserts
Saturday, March 22
Ham w/Pineapple, Broccoli, Apple Yam
Bake, Fruit
Tuesday, March 25
Salisbury Steak, Corn Casserole, Brussels Sprouts, Rosy Pears
Wednesday, March 26
SALAD BAR, Goulash w/Meat Sauce and Tomatoes, Carrots, 1 C. Salad, Garlic Bread, Pudding
*Soup or Salad available in place of traditional meal
Union Township will be taking bids for 1-1/4” clean rock until April 2, 2025. all rock must be applied to all roads by September 30, 2025. Submit bids to: Scott Robinson 13840 St. Hwy U Unionville, MO 63565
The Unionville Republican & Putnam County Journal (USPS 649240)
Established July 1865
Published weekly by Blackbird Creek Printing Company, 111 S. 16th Street, Unionville, Missouri. Periodical postage at the Post Office in Unionville, Missouri 63565
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Unionville Republican, P.O. Box 365, Unionville, MO 63565-0365. Ron Kinzler, Publisher Karen Bradshaw, Editor Mindy Clark, Advertising northmissourinews.com
Member of the Missouri Press Association
Subscription Prices: $32.50/year in-county addresses, $36.50/year out-of-county; $27.00/ year on-line. All subscriptions include sales tax where applicable and must be paid in advance.
Public Notice
Public notices… Your right to know… and be informed of the function of your government are embodied in public notices. In that self-government charges all citizens to be informed; this newspaper urges every citizen to read and study these notices. We strongly advise those citizens seeking further information to exercise their right of access to public record and public meetings.
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PUTNAM COUNTY MISSOURI
Division I
Case No. 25AJDR0005
In re: JORDYNN R McLAIN NOTICE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
Adult Individual
To Whom It May Concern:
Notice is hereby given that by Order of the Circuit Court of Putnam County, Missouri, Division I, Case No.
25AJ-DR0005 entered on the record on February 24th, 2025, the name of JORDYNN R MCLAIN was changed to JORDYNN R MCLAIN-HINES.
The Court finds that the change of name would be proper and would not be detrimental to the interests of any other person.
/s/ Anthony W. Horvath
Associate Circuit Judge
Publication Dates: 3/5, 3/12, 3/19
MDC Wants Public Comments on Resident and Nonresident Hunting
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is interested in learning more about the experiences of Missouri residents and nonresidents who hunt deer, turkey, and waterfowl in the state -- three of Missouri’s most popular game species.
To learn more, MDC is conducting a survey of a sample of resident and nonresident hunters who purchased permits for deer, turkey, or waterfowl in the past two years. In addition to the surveys, MDC is requesting public comment on the topic online.
MDC created the survey and public comment opportunity in response
to public feedback it has received from resident hunters regarding increased hunting pressure in Missouri by nonresident hunters.
MDC is emailing the survey to 56,000 resident hunters from around the state and 1,800 nonresident hunters.
According to MDC, 542,532 Missouri residents and 84,568 nonresident hunters purchased one or more of the related hunting permits over the two years.
In addition to the survey, MDC will be accepting public comment on the topic online through March 24 at moconservation.co1. qualtrics.com/jfe/form/ SV_6KEkmFst4Ny-
Bixler 108 Listening Room Live Music on the Square Performances
Thursday April 3 - 7pm ~ The Local Legends all your favorite local musicians and their guests
Friday April 11 - 7pm ~ Alice Wallace, Nashville via FL & CA
Friday April 18 - 7pm ~ Ruth Wyand, North Carolina
Friday April 25 - 7pm ~ The Close Trio - Nashville
Thursday May 1 - 7pm ~ The Local Legends all your favorite local musicians and their guests
Friday May 2 - 7pm ~ Susan Mohni Kane, CA with Iowa & Missouri roots
Friday May 9 - 7pm ~ Miss Emily, Canada
Friday May 16 - 7pm ~ Shanna in a Dress, Nashville via Virginia & Colorado
For more information, go to: Bixler 108 Facebook page or Contact: Tom Keedy @ 660.626.7803 or thebixler108@gmail.com
The Bixler 108 Listening Room is located @ 108 S. 17th St. Unionville, MO (West side of the square) No
A9oy.
MDC is considering a range of potential regulatory changes regarding nonresident hunting. They could include limiting nonresident hunting during portions of the deer, turkey, and/or
waterfowl hunting seasons; changing the price of nonresident permits; restricting nonresident hunting in portions of the state; and/or restricting nonresident hunting on MDC conservation areas.
Joe’sBitsand Pieces
farms. I will discuss this more in a future week.
I did not include the time for the Farmer’s Market meeting next week so I apologize. It will begin at 6 pm at the Bixler building on
Thursday (the 20th) here in Unionville. Thanks to Raylene for catching that.
THOUGHT: “My Saturday was going pretty well until I realized it was Sunday”!
Joe Koenen, AgriBusiness Specialist (Mo Extension Ret.)
MISSOURI FENCE LAW PART V
In this article, I will continue the fence law discussion as to an issue not directly related to fences but comes up often – adverse possession.
Adverse possession comes from an old English law that states loosely if you possess and use land that is not yours for 10 or more years straight, you can claim it un-adverse possession. All counties in Missouri have this law. It is known more commonly as “squatter’s rights”. It must be for at least 10 years straight although I have heard lawyers tell folks 7 before. To meet adverse possession requirements, the use of the land must be (a) hostile to the rights of the true owner, (b) under a claim of right, (c) actual, (d) open and notorious, (e) exclusive and continuous. That’s a lot of jargon but it amounts to if a property is used by a neighbor continuously for 10 years or more with no complaint or change by the other landowner, the land can be claimed under adverse possession. The landowner with the extra feet does not have to pay taxes as long as it is used 10 years or more straight. A landowner who comes in and buys the adjacent land, just because of a survey, does not necessarily overrule the possession claim unless it is settled in court, an expensive
process. Even though it comes up on fence lines a lot, it is not limited to fences but utilization of land.
Things a new owner cannot do is (1) remove the fence because they have a survey and the fence is on the wrong place, (2) move the fence on their own or (3) have law enforcement come and move it. What can be done is (1) talk to the neighbor and see if they agree to move the fence at some point, (2) both sign a legal form leaving the fence as it is but preventing an adverse possession claim (I do have an example one), or (3) in an general law county (Clark, Adair) do anything if you have no livestock since you have no legal responsibility for said fence/boundary.
Adverse possession is a complicated legal issue that is confused all the time. Do not assume you know the whole law or issue. Remember, this is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for competent legal advice.
REMINDERS
The Missouri Century Farm Program, a joint effort of University of Missouri Extension, Missouri Farm Bureau and the MU Department of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources is now open to applications until May 1. Your local extension office can assist you or you can go online at www.extension.missouri.edu and search century
Locust Creek Watershed will be accepting bids for the 2025 season to mow PL566 Watershed dams. Per hour bids should be submitted to: Locust Creek Watershed, 23487 Eclipse Dr. , Milan, MO 63556. Contact Chris Schnelle at 660-265-3440 x114 with questions.
Sunday Services ~ 8:30 am, 10:45 am & 6 pm Sunday School ~ 9:45 am Weekly Fellowship: Monday ~ Ladies Quilting ~ 9 am Monday Night Bible Study ~ 6:30 pm Tuesday ~ Ladies Bible Study ~ 9:45 am Wednesday ~ Bible Studies ~ 6:30 pm Meal served at 5:45pm
MDHEWD Releases Updated Strategic Plan, Celebrates Progress in Educational Attainment and Workforce Participation
Last week, the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) released an updated strategic plan aimed at providing pathways and reducing barriers to educational attainment and workforce participation.
The 2025 Strategic Plan is an update to the department’s original plan released in 2021, which identified and emphasized the importance of two big goals and targets: 60 percent of Missourians with educational attainment beyond high school and 70 percent labor force participation by 2030. The latest data available from 2023 shows that Missouri continues to make progress, reaching 52.2 in educational attainment and 63.1 percent in workforce participation so far.
“We are committed to doing our part to make sure Missourians have the skills, training, and education necessary to compete for good, quality jobs,” said Dr. Bennett Boggs, Commissioner of the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development. “This progress is a result of the hard work and dedication of our higher education institutions, the local workforce boards, agency partners, as well as the work of MDHEWD’s staff, guided by the Coordinating Board for Higher Education and in partnership with the State Workforce Development Board. Together, we will continue to improve the talent pipeline that will attract new employers to the Show-Me state.”
With the help of key partners, MDHEWD was able to make great strides in the last year alone. Accomplishments include:
“We have two ears and one tongue so that we would listen more and talk less.”
~ Diogenes
“Surround yourself with people who make you a better person.”
~ Author Unknown
*Provided more than 64,000 students with over $163 million in state financial aid
*Deployed $38.3 million through MoExcels to fund 19 projects to help with workforce preparation
*Ranked in the top 3 in the U.S. for new and completed apprenticeships
*Served more than 70,000 Missourians with job readiness services through job centers across the state
*Led an adult learner network of 53 organizations that examined and improved policies and practices for working learners and launched an adult learner strategic framework
MDHEWD also released the Missouri High School Graduates Report last week, which highlighted a decline in the percentage of high school graduates taking remedial courses at Missouri’s public colleges and universities.
Earlier this month, the Lumina Foundation introduced its updated national goal for educational attainment, which aligns with Missouri’s approach and emphasis on the labor force. The national benchmark aims to equip 75 percent of adults in the labor force with college degrees or other credentials of value by 2040.
“The department recognizes all training opportunities beyond high school as highly valuable,” added Dr. Boggs. “Apprenticeships and on-the-job training, short-term certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and beyond all contribute to the economic health of the state.”
Over the next year, MDHEWD plans to focus on meeting Missouri’s workforce needs with a qualified talent pipeline, providing the skills and training workers need to succeed at every education level, and offering affordable pathways to help remove any barriers that may prevent individuals from being competitive for quality jobs.
For more information about MDHEWD’s strategic plan and the department’s big goals for Missouri, visit the MDHEWD website.
About MDHEWD: The department works to empower Missourians with the skills and education needed for success. More information about MDHEWD can be found at https://dhewd. mo.gov or by following MDHEWD’s social media accounts.
Red Cross Giving Day, March 26, Rallies 30,000
Supporters to Deliver Aid When Help Can’t Wait After Disasters
Financial and blood donations are needed now
COLUMBIA, MO
(March 17, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Central and Northern Missouri is issuing a call to help ensure no one faces a disaster alone by donating on Red Cross Giving Day, March 26.
During the first 50 days of 2025, Red Cross volunteers responded to more big disasters in the U.S. than days — including the wildfires in Los Angeles and flooding in Kentucky. And that’s on top of everyday crises like home fires that have upended lives here in Central and Northern Missouri. Meanwhile, more Red Cross blood donations have gone uncollected so far this year due to weather than throughout all of 2024.
“This year’s disasters have set a whirlwind pace, displacing thousands of people from their homes across the country and disrupting the nation’s blood supply for patients,” said Rebecca Gordon, Executive Director, Red Cross of Central and Northern Missouri. “As we enter spring disaster season, families are relying on us to come together as a community and support them when help can’t wait during future crises. Join us today by making a financial donation or giving blood.”
Visit redcross.org today to make a financial donation or schedule an appointment to give blood in March:
MAKE A FINANCIAL DONATION:
Donations will be part of Red Cross Giving Day, which aims to rally 30,000 individuals to help people affected by disasters big and small. A gift of any size makes a difference. For example, a donation of $3 can provide a comfort kit with supplies like a toothbrush, comb and shampoo, and a gift of $11 can provide a nutritious meal, snack and drink.
For those who are able, any donor who gives
$140 or more in March will receive a choice of a Red Cross monopack or a pair of socks as a thank-you for supporting our mission. Donors can make their gift and claim their thank-you by visiting redcross.org any time during March.
GIVE BLOOD: To help overcome the significant weather impact on blood donations, the Red Cross also urges the public to give lifesaving blood by making an appointment today at RedCrossBlood.org, on the Red Cross Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800RED CROSS. People of all blood types are needed now to help avoid further strain to the blood supply.
The Red Cross is expanding its health offerings by performing free A1C testing (commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes) on successful blood, platelet and plasma donations in March. Additionally, all who come to give blood, platelets or plasma March 1-31 will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. See RedCrossBlood.org/March for details on both offers. Upcoming blood donation opportunities March 17-31: Adair
Kirksville
3/26/2025: 11 a.m. - 3
p.m., A T Still University, 800 W Jefferson, Conference Rooms Faculty Resource Rm/Center for Medical Humanities
3/27/2025: 12 p.m.5:30 p.m., The Crossing, 810 E Shepherd Ave
Putnam
Unionville
3/20/2025: 1 p.m.5:30 p.m., Putnam County Fairgrounds Lions Club Building, 615 N 22nd St
Sullivan
Milan
3/19/2025: 2 p.m.6 p.m., Milan C2 High School, 373 S Market
“Being happy doesn’t mean everything is perfect. It means you’ve decided to look beyond the imperfections.” ~ Author Unknown
State of Missouri to Hold
Public Hearings for FY2025
HUD Action Plan
The State of Missouri will hold formal public hearings across the state to allow for public input on the Fiscal Year 2025 HUD Action Plan.
Each year, the State is required to develop an action plan that outlines how each program funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by the State will operate over the next year. DED is the lead agency responsible for developing this action plan.
The State currently operates five HUD-funded programs across three departments and agencies that are subject to the action planning process:
1) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), administered by the Missouri Department of Economic Development
2) HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME), administered by the Missouri Housing Development Commission
3) National Housing Trust Fund (HTF), administered by the Missouri Housing Development Commission
4) Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), administered by the Missouri Housing Development Commission
5) Housing of Persons with AIDS (HOPWA), administered by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
An action plan primarily addresses the following topics for each program:
*The amount of resources available in each program for the year
*The goals and objectives of each program
The types of projects and activities that may be funded
*The types of applicants that may receive funding
*The manner of being awarded funding
*Other program-specific requirements
Drafts of the State of Missouri’s FY25 Action Plan and the Citizen Participation Plan will be made available on or before March 24, 2025,
at ded.mo.gov/cdbg for public comment. The State will hold six public hearings across the state while the 30-day public comment period is open. Each meeting will share the same content. The public comment period will end at 5 p.m. on April 24, 2025.
To submit formal comment, please contact DED’s CDBG program at mocdbg@ded.mo.gov or at 573-751-3600.
Times and Locations
Kansas City March 27, 3:30-5:30 p.m.
Kansas City Library, Northeast Branch 6000 Wilson Avenue Kansas City, MO 64123
Trenton
April 3, 4:30-6 p.m. 1104 Main Street Trenton, MO 64683
Dexter
April 7, 1-3 p.m.
Bootheel Regional Planning Commission 105 E. North Main Dexter, MO
St. Louis
April 10, 3-5:30 p.m.
Kingshighway Library 2260 South Vandeventer Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63110
Jefferson City
April 11, 3-4 p.m.
Harry S. Truman Building 301 W. High Street, Room 750A Jefferson City, MO 65102
(Virtual option included)
Springfield April 17, 4:30-5:30 p.m. eFactory
Cox Health Room 405 N. Jefferson Ave. Springfield, MO 65806
Special accommodations for the public hearings are needed, including language interpretation for Limited English Proficiency citizens, please contact Debbie Feeback at Debbie. Feeback@ded.mo.gov or at 573-508-9930 by March 21, 2025, at 5 p.m. The State will make every effort possible to provide reasonable accommodations for all meetings.
Registration is required through eventbrite.com/e/ cdbgfy2025-hud-action-planpublic-hearing
NCMRWC Releases National Park Service Report on Recreational Amenities at Roy Blunt Reservoir Report a Result of Community Engagement into What the Public Would Like
MILAN: In 2024 the NCMRWC was approved for a grant from the National Park Service to assist with visioning and planning for recreational amenities at the Roy Blunt Reservoir. Headed up by a professor and graduate student at Iowa State University with the support of Allstate Consultants and NCMRWC staff, the report is a culmination a number of community engagement activities and research.
The report provides advice and guidelines for features, structures, trail types, architecture, material usage and design. The public favored natural or rustic designs and materials. They prioritized access and celebrating nature, as well as recognizing and memorializing the people and character of the people around the lake and in the area.
The report prioritizes the types of activities that the community wants to see at the Roy Blunt Reservoir includ-
My Side ...
ing public shelters, fishing access, boating and hiking trails. The report is filled with graphic displays, examples of features and the research and community engagement outcomes that informed it. It will be used for planning purposes as well as for supporting grant and funding applications. The entire report can be found at : https:// drive.google.com/ file/d/16LCv0LNKS8rqQ5Q3pMSG0EzWsuGEyNjF/view?usp=sharing. It will also be posted on ELCR.Info. Harve Rhodes, Chairman of the NCMRWC stated, “The public, especially the people of Sullivan County enabled this Reservoir. It is altogether fitting that the public express themselves and guide our decisions. ”He added, “While we work and plan for the future every day at the Commission, envisioning people enjoying the Roy Blunt Reservoir into the future is particularly exciting.”
Continued from pg. 4
open government.* Through the Sunshine Law (RSMo. 610.011), the meetings, records, votes, actions and deliberations of this state’s public governmental bodies are open to the public, with few exceptions. Recently, I have observed the Unionville City Council hold public hearings where few citizens show up. In fact, at the March 6 public hearing on the budget, there were no citizens in atten-
dance. Just an observation, but if one is really interested in the laws and political decisions that impact them, perhaps they need to show up and pay attention. Off the soapbox now. Have a good week and stay warm or cool or whatever in the way of weather Mother Nature throws at us this week.
*source: Missouri Press Service news release, March 14, 2025
Hadley Williams DVM
