04-20-2023 Post Telegraph

Princeton to offer summer school

Board approves same grant application as last year. Parsons elected to serve as board’s new president

PRESTON COLE Editor, the Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON The Princeton R-5 School District will hold a summer school session again this year, after action taken by the Board of Education during its meeting last Monday night (April 10).

The board received information from superintendent Jerry Girdner about a grant opportunity similar to the grant that funded a summer school program. Funds are provided under the ARPA’s (American Rescue Plan Act) ESSER III (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) Summer School grant program.

For at least two decades before 2022, Princeton didn’t offer summer school due to what

Girdner described as the state’s “unique” funding formula for public schools. Had Princeton offered summer school, it could have taken a significant financial hit - approaching $300,000 some years - from the state’s small schools grant and its hold harmless provision.

Those funds go to school districts whose average daily attendance is 350 students or less.

The ARPA and its ESSER III provision were created by Congress during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The board approved administrators to apply for the summer school grant and to plan summer school.

Other actions

• At the start of the meeting, the board verified results of the April 4 election that saw in-

See Princeton R-5, Page ??

Gunderson earns Northwest Presidential Scholar honor

PRESTON COLE/Princeton Post-Telegraph

Ellsworth recognized for service on Princeton

R-5 Board of Education

Princeton High School senior Andrew Gunderson (seated, center) signed paperwork to become a Northwest Missouri State University Presidential Scholar, one of the highest honors Northwest has. Every year, Northwest recognizes 10 incoming freshmen - out of 2,500 total freshmen) who have exemplified outstanding academic effort. This select group of students each receive $8,000 per academic year, and the award is renewable based on meeting eligibility requirements. Gunderson went through a rigorous application process and an interview to earn the award. He plans to major in music education and play in the band. He signed the paperwork during a ceremony last Wednesday (April 12).

Also shown are his parents, Dale (seated, left) and Chrissy Gunderson, and Cameron Morrison, Northwest senior recruitment coordinator (back).

Stacy Center plans special events

Open house to celebrate reopening of pool April 29. Luncheon and silent auction to be held April 30 Princeton Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON The Stacy Center has announced two special events next weekend.

First, the center will have an open house to celebrate the re-

opening of the center’s swimming pool on Saturday, April 29 from noon to 3 p.m. There will be free swimming, snacks, games, discounted memberships and prize drawings.

Then on Sunday, April 30, the Stacy Center will hold a luncheon and silent auction in the Princeton Elementary School

commons from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The meal will consists of smoked loin, cheesy potatoes, green beans, salads and desserts. Organizers say there will be “many wonderful” items up for bid during the silent auction.

Roeslein files with PSC for waiver

Special

10) Princeton R-5 Board of Education, outgoing board member and president Rick Ellsworth (left) received a plaque recognizing him for his service on the board for the past nine years (2014-2023). Superintendent Jerry Girdner presented the plaque.

operation of a gas transmission line in Sullivan and Mercer counties.

Applications to intervene and participate in this case must be filed no later than May 11, 2023, with the Secretary of the Missouri Public Service Commission, PO Box 360, Jefferson

City, Missouri 65102, or by using the Commission’s Electronic Filing and Information System (EFIS) at www.psc. mo.gov .

Individual citizens wishing to comment should contact ei-

See Roeslein, Page 4

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Before last Monday night’s (April

to the Post-Telegraph JEFFERSON CITY Roeslein Alternative Energy Services, LLC (RAES) has filed an application with the Missouri Public Service Commission requesting a waiver of gas pressure and odorization requirements under a Commission rule in the

PRESTON COLE/Princeton Post-Telegraph

Princeton’s Kaleb Thomas, who went a combined 3-for-7 at the plate with 6 RBI during the Tigers’ Grand River Conference victories last week, connected during their win over Polo last Tuesday (April 18).

Tigers notch 2 GRC wins

Princeton baseball sweeps Polo, Milan to remain undefeated in league play

PRESTON COLE

Editor, Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON Neither the road nor a neutral site were kind to Princeton’s baseball team last week, as the Tigers lost a non-conference game and two tournaments, all by run rules. The friendly confines of Gerald Gentry Field were just that, however, as Princeton stayed in contention to win the Grand River Conference East title with a pair of home league victories.

The second win last Thursday (April 13) was dramatic, as the Tigers rallied from deficits of 5-1, 8-3 and 9-5 to rally past Milan 11-9, scoring 6 runs with two outs in the bottom of the fifth inning.

Both teams scored in the first inning, but Milan (4-6, 0-3 GRC) scored pairs of runs in the top of the second and third innings to go up 5-1. A 2-run Tiger round in their third cut

the deficit in half, but the Wildcats answered with three in the top of the third and went up 8-3. Princeton (5-7, 4-0 GRC) got two of those runs back in its half of the fourth to pull to within 8-5.

Milan got its final run in the top of the fifth for a 9-5 lead, but Noel Schreffler - the third of four Tiger pitchers - came in with one out and the bases loaded and stranded all three Wildcat runners.

Schreffler led off the Tiger fifth with a strikeout, but got to first base on a passed ball. He reached second on a groundout, before Cooper Boxley singled to right field to send Schreffler to third. Milan reliever Greyson Smith got a strikeout for the second out, and things looked grave for the Tigers.

But the strikeout brought up the top of Princeton’s lineup, and stuff happened quickly.

Landon Krohn doubled to right, scoring Schreffler and Boxley to make it 9-7. Clay Evans singled to send Krohn to third, and

Kelby Thomas doubled in Krohn and Evans to tie the score at 9-all.

Gavin Power was then intentionally walked, and he reached second on a wild pitch. With Talan Holt up, Thomas scored and Power made third on a passed ball, and Power then scored on a throwing error to put Princeton in front.

Krohn shut down the Wildcats after taking the mound for the top of the sixth, facing just six batters, five of whom were retired on strikeouts. Evans and Power each got two hits for Princeton, and Thomas (4) and Power (3) combined for 7 RBI.

Milan starting pitcher Keaton Weter struck out 12 Tigers over the first four innings.

Princeton 9, Polo 4

PRINCETON The Tigers’ GRC win over a first-year Polo program was also a come-from-behind victory, only without the drama as Princeton scored four runs in both the fifth and sixth

See Baseball wins, Page 3

Mercer boys get first points of season at Trenton meet

Meinecke places third in Gary Ferguson Relays HJ PRESTON COLE Editor, the Post-Telegraph

TRENTON Mercer’s boys’ track team had just one entrant in the Gary Ferguson Relays last Thursday (April 13), but that one boy scored the Cardinals’ first points of the season.

Tyler Meinecke finished third in the high jump with a leap of 5 feet, 8 inches, good for 6 points and a 13th-place team finish. Points were scored on the 10-8-6-4-2-1 on Trenton’s 6-lane track.

Mercer’s girls didn’t have any top-6 finishes.

SW Livingston Relays

CHILLICOTHE Mercer’s girls scored in eight events last Wednesday (April 12), scoring 28 points to finish 11th in the Southwest Livingston Relays.

The Cardinals’ highest finish-

es came from third-place performances from Maddi Fisher in the high jump (4 feet, 5 inches), Sari Rogers in the discus

(81-5) and the 4x800-meter relay team of Fisher, Makenzie

See Mercer track, Page 3

PRESTON COLE/Princeton Post-Telegraph

Mercer’s Tyler Meinecke scored the Mercer boys’ track team’s first points of the season on April 13 with a third-place finish in the high jump during the Gary Ferguson Relays.

PRESTON COLE/Princeton Post-Telegraph Mercer’s Maddi Fisher, shown competing during Trenton’s Gary Ferguson Relays, placed third in the high jump during the Southwest Livingston Relays last Wednesday (April 12) in Chillicothe.

Princeton boys take third at Ferguson Relays

A. Rhoades wins three events, Holt captures HJ PRESTON COLE Editor, the Post-Telegraph TRENTON Princeton’s boys got points in just six events last Thursday (April 13) during the Gary Ferguson Relays, but the Tigers scored all but four of their 68 points to finish third in the 15-team field.

The Tigers won four events, getting 1-2 finishes in two of them, and added a third second-place finish during a meet that scored just six places (108-6-4-2-1) on Trenton’s 6-lane track.

Andrew Rhoades won three of the four events in which he was entered - the 200 meters (in 22.96 seconds), the 400 (51.25)

and the javelin (142 feet, 31/2 inches).

And no, if you’re curious, he didn’t fail to win the pole vault. Because Trenton’s insurance carrier wouldn’t cover the pole vault pit, the event wasn’t held. Instead, he competed in the long jump for the first time since last year, and finished second at 18-91/2

Tiger girls fourth at Gary Ferguson Relays

Spencer (javelin), 4x100 relay win titles as Princeton scores in 13 events

PRESTON COLE

Editor, the Post-Telegraph

TRENTON Princeton’s girls scored in 13 events, including two wins and five other top-3 finishes as the Tigers finished fourth in the 15-team Gary Ferguson Relays last Thursday (April 13).

The Tigers’ victories came from Megan Spencer in the javelin (111 feet, 33/4 inches) and the 4x100 meter relay team of Alyvia Enright, Addy Henke, Grace Kelly and Carsey Brown (54.79 seconds).

Spencer finished second in the discus with a toss of 95-8, and Cheyenne Dinsmore was second in the shot put at 2923/4. The 4x200 team of Danielle Bears,

Faith Siemer, Kelly and Addy Henke finished second with a time of 1 minute, 54.67 seconds.

Henke took third place in the long jump with a leap of 14-111/2, and Bears rounded out the Tigers’ top-3 finishes by taking third in the 110 high jurdles in 17.71.

Fourth-place points were provided by Kelly in the triple jump (30-13/4) and Bears in the 300 low hurdles (52.88).

Finishing fifth for Princeton were Brown in the 100 (14.03), Kayla Allton in the 800 (2:50.16) and Siemer in the 100 hurdles (18.67).

Henke was sixth in the 400 in 1:09.84, and Kadence Power was sixth in the 200 (30.12)

Princeton finished with 72 points.

Baseball wins two GRC East games From Page 2

innings last Tuesday (April 11).

Princeton broke on top with a run in the bottom of the first, only to see the Panthers (1-10, 0-3 GRC) tie the score in the top of the fourth before taking a 2-1 lead in the fifth. The Tigers took the lead in their half of the fifth with a 4-run rally, and Schreffler’s single scored what proved to be the game-winning run as Princeton went up 5-4. Polo scored twice in the top of the sixth, but Princeton responded with another 4-run outburst in its half of the inning to pull away.

Krohn got three hits for Princeton, while Thomas and Power had two each. Thomas and Boxley each had two RBI.

Krohn struck out all four batters he faced in the top of the seventh; one

reached on a passed ball.

Princeton’s losses last week came at Novinger last Monday (April 10), 12-2, followed by losses to Scotland County 18-5 and state-ranked (in Class 1) Green City 18-3 on Saturday in the Putnam County Tournament at Unionville. STATISTICS - vs. Milan

OFFENSE - Hits: Clay Evans 2, Gavin Power 2, Landon Krohn, Kelby Thomas, Noel Schreffler, Cooper Boxley. 2B: Krohn, Thomas. RBI: Thomas 4, Power 3, Krohn 2. Runs scored: Krohn 3, Evans 2, Thomas 2, Power, Schreffler, Evan Houck, Boxley. Walks: Krohn 2, Power 2, Evans, Thomas, Houck. Stolen bases: Krohn, Thomas.

PITCHING - Power: 2 innings, 3 runs (0 earned), 2 hits, 2 walks, 3 strikeouts, 1 hit batter; Boxley: 2.1 innings, 6 runs (3

Talan Holt won the high jump with a leap of 6-2, and Jaden Finney gave Princeton one of its 1-2 finishes as he took second at 6-0.

Princeton’s other 1-2 finish came in the javelin, as Tyler Coffman finished second with a toss of 130-10.

The Tigers also got points from their 4x400-meter re-

lay team of Finney, Nicholas Rubio, Ethan Rhoades and Holt, which finished fourth in 1:41.59.

Both Princeton teams competed in their annual home meet, the Jim King Relays, on Monday (April 17). Unless a meet is added, the Tigers’ next action will be Friday, April 28 at Unionville.

TERRI KELLY/Princeton Post-Telegraph Faith Siemer, shown here competing in the 300-meter low hurdles, finished fifth in the 100-meter high hurdles during the Gary Ferguson Relays last Thursday (April 13) in Trenton.

earned), 6 hits, 3 walks, 5 strikeouts; Schreffler: 2/3 inning, 0 runs, 0 hits, 0 walks, 1 strikeout; Krohn: 2 innings, 0 runs, 0 hits, 1 walk, 5 strikeouts.

vs. Polo

OFFENSE - Hits: Krohn 3, Thomas 2, Power 2, Schreffler. 2B: Krohn. RBI: Thomas 2, Boxley 2, Talan Holt, Schreffler. Runs scored: Krohn 2, Evans 2, Thomas 2, Power 2, Holt. Walks: Power 2, Holt 2, Houck 2, Evans, Boxley. Stolen bases: Schreffler, Thomas, Houck, Krohn, Power, Evans.

PITCHING - Evans: 4 innings, 1 run (earned), 1 hit, 2 walks, 3 strikeouts, 1 hit batter; Holt: 2 innings, 3 runs (1 earned), 1 hit, 5 walks, 4 strikeouts; Krohn: 1 inning, 0 runs, 0 hits, 0 walks, 4 strikeouts.

Mercer track From Page 2

Hagan, Sari Rogers and Gracie Rogers (13 minutes, 31.8 seconds).

Mercer scored more points from sixthplace finishes from Fisher in the javelin (80-8), Hagan in the 1600 (7:59.0), and the 4x200 relay team of Fisher, Hagan, Linda Barton and Gracie Rogers (2:16.2).

Gracie Rogers was eighth in the 800 meters in 3:25.4, and Barton was eighth in the long jump at 12-8.

Points were awarded on the 10-8-6-54-3-2-1 on Chillicothe’s 8-lane track.

• Mercer’s boys did not score during the meet.

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.

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

EDITOR’S NOTICE

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. This notice also applies for advertisements for the Courier (shopper).

REAL ESTATE BUILDINGS HOUSES

Lots for sale at Lake Marie on Pacific Avenue. For more info, call 515-205-0874.

4-20-4tbP+C

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

All real estate and/or houses, and all rental housing and/or property, advertised in the Princeton Post-Telegraph newspaper and the Courier shopper 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.

GUNS & AMMO

WOOD’S GUN SHOP

5 Miles South of Ravanna 660-748-5795

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday 1-6-2022-ufnP+C

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Mercer County Area Development provides 0% interest loans to qualified Mercer County, Mo., business. Up to $10,000 for equipment, inventory, operating, exterior storefront rehab, signage and more. No cost to apply. For info call 660-748-4006.

3-23-12tbP+C (end 6-8)

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. 9-29-22-52tpP+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

1-5-23-52tpP+C

Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on Highland Farms land owned and operated by Dixie Berger, Joe Berger & Steve Berger. 5-19-22-52tpP+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 and Roberta Zimmer. 3-23-23-52tpP+C

Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on land owned by Barbara & LeRoy Hider 10-13-22-52tpP+C

No hunting, trespassing or fishing on property owned, leased or rented by Howard or Joe Don Pollard 4-21-22-52tpP

Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on Choate property at any time. 3-31-22-52tpP

Absolutely no hunting with guns or dogs, fishing, or trespassing on land owned by Berndt Farm and Berndt Twin Lake Inc. 11-10-22-52tpP

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

TIGERS! CARDINALS!

If they’re playing, we’re bringing you the best coverage you’ll find anywhere!

PRINCETON POST-TELEGRAPH

GARDEN PLANTS

ECHO VALLEY GREENHOUSE

NOW OPEN!!

Open Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Closed Sundays SHOP EARLY FOR BEST SELECTION

Fruit Trees - Week’s Roses

All Kinds of Berries

Asparagus - Grapes Figs - Rhubarb

Seed Potatoes - Herbs

Onion Seed & Plants

Vegetable & Bedding Plants

Hanging Baskets

Potting Soil - Fertilizers

1.5 Miles West of Modena 12944 Highway D 660-748-3444

CLOSED MAY 18! 3-30-8tbP+C

SERVICES

New cemetery memorials, cemetery restorations and repairs. RW Monument, 502273-9933. 4-20-4tbP+C

Boyer Land Company LLC

Aaron Franklin, Sales Agent Princeton, MO 64673 660-748-6314

YOUR REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST!

1-5-2023ufnP+C

General Construction Services

> Roofing

> Garages

> Concrete

> Fencing RW Construction 502-273-9933

4-20-4tbP+C

Wells Heating & Air Conditioning LLC

Princeton, MO 660-748-8489

Sales and Service On All Brands Serving Princeton & Surrounding Area 1-5-2023-ufn-bP+C

POST-TELEGRAPH

RETAIL OUTLETS PRINCETON

Casey’s General Store EverCare Pharmacy Hy-Vee Clinic Pharmacy

Snappy’s Store

Post-Telegraph Office MERCER Hour Place Mercer Hometown Market SOUTH LINEVILLE

Randy’s Short Stop SINGLE COPY PRICE 75¢

MERCER COUNTY

RESIDENTS WITH PRINCETON, MO., OR MERCER, MO., ADDRESSES CAN SAVE $12 A YEAR WITH A P-T SUBSCRIPTION. CALL 660-748-3266 FOR INFORMATION!

Roeslein

From Page 1

ther the Office of the Public Counsel (Governor Office Building, 200 Madison Street, Suite 650, PO Box 2230, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-2230, telephone 1-866-922-2959, email opcservice@opc.mo.gov) or the Public Service Commission Staff (PO Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102, telephone 1-800-392-4211, email pscinfo@psc. mo.gov). The Office of the Public Counsel is a separate state agency that represents the general public in matters before the Commission.

Princeton R-5

From Page 1

cumbents Karla Meinke and Marcie Davis, and new member Mitch Reger, receive their oaths of office from Girdner.

Ron Parsons was elected to serve as board president, and Davis was elected as vice president. Board members then appointed Chad Smith as board secretary and Meinke as treasurer.

• A bid for a refrigerated salad bar for the lunch program was approved, at $12,772.60. The equipment will be paid for with National School Lunch Program grant funds.

• Tuition for out-ofdistrict residents for the 2023-24 academic year was set at $6,375. That is the same rate as the current tuition, and meets what’s know as the “state adequacy target.”

Tuition mainly impacts Spickard R-2 students in grades 7-12 who can attend either Princeton, Trenton R-9 or Grundy County R-5 (Galt) after finishing sixth grade. Spickard is a K-6 district. It is responsible for paying tuition for its resident 7-12 students.

Princeton and Trenton charge the same tuition rate.

• Conrad & Higgins, LLC was named to provide annual financial audits for the next three years, through 2025-16.

• Girdner informed the board and those in attendance about the following events:

> Awards night and baccalaureate will be held at Princeton United Methodist Church on Wednesday, May 3 at 6:30 p.m.

> Graduation will be held Friday, May 5 at 7 p.m. in the Princeton Elementary School gym.

> The May board meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 8 at 6:30 p.m. The time is one hour later than when board meetings usually start (5:30).

Princeton council

From Page 7

• A closed session was held. No announcements were made after the council returned to open session for adjournment.

The next meeting was scheduled for Monday, May 8 at 6 p.m. at City Hall.

Editor’s note: Information for this report came from meeting minutes provided by Deputy City Clerk Jami McLain.

Workers

From Page 5

of the congressional language of “undue hardship.”

Moreover, the dissenters in Hardison, Justices Marshall and Brennan, immediately and correctly complained that the “de minimis test” of the majority “makes a mockery” of Title VII. It effectively “nullifies” the intention of Congress to provide a workplace free from terminations due to discrimination against observant believers. Marshall stated that the majority in Hardison “adopts the very position that Congress expressly rejected in 1972 as if we were free to disregard congressional choices that a majority of this Court thinks unwise.” That statement, coming from two of the most liberal justices of the court when it comes to interpretation, tells the whole story.

Both the Supreme Court in Hardison and the lower courts in Groff, were not faithful to the rest of the language of Title VII. Not only did they effectively gut the meaning of “undue hardship,” they ignored other key words in the statute which say that only if the “conduct of the business” of the employer is in jeopardy does an accommodation become too costly. The court majority in Hardison, followed by the lower courts in Groff, focused instead on the fact that granting religious accommodation to

one employee sometimes meant that an increased burden was placed on other employees. Co-workers, for example, had to substitute for the spot left open by the accommodated employee. However, Marshall in his Hardison dissent stated that employee discontent should not be the focus of attention: “But if an accommodation can be rejected simply because it involves preferential treatment, then the statutes, while brimming with ‘sound and fury,’ ultimately ‘signify nothing.’” Title VII clearly says the court is only to look at the threat to the “conduct of the business” posed by the accommodation. If business conduct is substantially disrupted, then the accommodation has gone too far. But co-workers complaining about the effects of the accommodation on their own work schedules were not intended by the 1972 amendment to negate reasonable accommodation.

The court should revisit and reject Hardison. It should return to the actual accommodations language made law by Congress in the 1972 amendment, which calls upon employers to make a substantial effort to protect their religiously observant employees. Exercising one’s faith should not be a ticket to unemployment or unfair treatment. Mail deliverer Gerald Groff should be able to worship and rest on the Christian Sabbath without losing his job.

Dr. John A. Sparks is the retired dean of Arts & Letters at Grove City College and a fellow for Institute for Faith and Freedom. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan Law School and a member of the State Bar of Pennsylvania. He is a frequent contributor of articles based upon U.S. Supreme Court developments.

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.

“No” on HB 301it’s bad legislation

PAUL HAMBY

Special to the Post-Telegraph

MAYSVILLE Sometimes good-sounding legislation has unintended consequences that require a “no” vote.

Defund the police/let the criminals go free policies have proven to be a disaster in the states of Oregon, California and parts of Missouri.

When prosecutors intentionally choose to not prosecute criminals, the consequence is an increase in robberies, carjackings and murder. Walmart recently announced the closing of all stores in Portland Ore.

Whole Foods’ San Francisco flagship store is closing after just one year of operation. “To ensure the safety of our Team Members, we have made the difficult decision to close the Trinity store,” the company said.

Kim Gardner, St. Louis circuit attorney, is an example where serious cases are not being prosecuted. There is tension between the police and Gardner’s prosecutor office because those who are arrested are often let go. Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick has issued a subpoena for an audit of Gardner’s office. This following a tragic accident that caused a young volleyball player to have both legs amputated. The suspect driver was out on bond from another incident. Fitzpatrick says this audit comes after a request from the St. Louis Board of Aldermen.

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has filed suit to remove her from office. That case should be in court this week.

Missouri Speaker of the House Dean Plocher, a native of the St Louis area, made this a top tier priority in January 2023: “With hundreds of murders each year and thousands of unprosecuted criminal cases, we see a St. Louis that is anything but safe and that drives people and employers away from our area. I’m confident HB 301 can give us an important tool to restore law and order to St. Louis or any part of our state where violent crime has grown out of control.”

LIBERTY THOUGHTS

Clearly we have a defined problem in Missouri. But we must be very careful that the solution does not create unintended consequences.

HB 301 would allow the Missouri governor to appoint a special prosecutor in areas of the state with a homicide rate in excess of 35 cases per 100,000 people and where the governor determines there is a threat to public safety and health. The special prosecutor would be appointed for a period of up to five years. The issue in St Louis is unprosecuted cases. A better standard would be for the threshold for appointing a special prosecutor to be a certain number of unaddressed prosecutions, not the homicide rate.

Our system of government is designed to have checks and balances. This is to prevent too much power concentrated in one person or branch of government. The proposed legislation gives the governor broad power. To take the extreme step of taking away local control from a locally elected official, there needs to be a higher standard such as the governor proposes a special prosecutor and the Missouri Senate required to approve such action.

If our legislature passes a new law that empowers the Missouri governor or attorney general to fire elected prosecutors without oversight or consent from a third party, then we may well see the office become a tool to destroy one's political enemies in the future.

HB 301 has passed the house and is making its way through the Missouri Senate. As written now HB 301 should be a “no” vote. Please contact your Missouri Senator and ask them to revise the bill or vote no on HB 301.

Paul Hamby is a free-thinking, conservative farmer and small businessesman from northwest Missouri’s DeKalb County.

ADVERTISE in the Princeton Post-Telegraph today!

PRINCETON POST-TELEGRAPH MISSION

STATEMENT

MERCER COUNTY 4-DAY WEATHER

National Weather Service - Pleasant Hill/Kansas City, Mo. Time of forecast: Monday, April 17, 7 a.m.

Thursday, April 20: 60% chance of rain; 66/43

Friday, April 21: Mostly cloudy, 30% rain chance; 57/36

Saturday, April 22: Partly sunny; 50/31

Sunday, April 23: Mostly sunny; 56

Forecasts reflect daytime high and overnight low temperatures.

Weather forecasts change often. Check local radio, weather radio, or the NWS website (www.weather.gov) for the most recent updates.

THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment for religion, or prohibiting the free exercise there of; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people to peacefully assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

Postal worker fighting for his rights, and rights of all workers

DR. JOHN A. SPARKS

Special to the Post-Telegraph GROVE CITY, Pa. In January 2019, Gerald Groff left the Holtwood Post Office in the small rural community of Holtwood, Pa., located in Lancaster County. When he left, he figured it was likely for good. He resigned his mail carrier position there because he knew that he was inching closer and closer to being fired. He had already endured various steps of the Post Office’s progressive discipline. What drove him to leave the USPS was its failure to accommodate his sincerely held religious convictions.

Groff understood Sunday to be a day that he was to be free from work. He believed Sunday should be devoted to the worship of God and to rest as set out in the Fourth Commandment. He was willing to work hard for the rest of the week, to take others’ shifts, to be as flexible as possible to avoid Sunday work assignments.

Nevertheless, USPS called him to work on Sundays to fulfill a new contract it had made with Amazon to deliver its packages to the 3,000-plus people served by the Holtwood rural post office.

After resigning, Groff brought a lawsuit asserting his right to practice his Sunday religious observance free from the threat of dismissal. He lost in a federal district court and then lost again on appeal to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. Instead of delivering mail along the Susquehanna River in Lancaster County, he now finds himself on One First Street, Washington, DC - the home of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Groff’s case is based upon a federal civil rights statute, not a constitutional provision. It is easy to forget that the freedom to engage in the exercise of religion is also protected by federal statutes, which although

FAITH & FREEDOM

they may be repealed by subsequent acts of Congress, nevertheless are part of the protections which Americans enjoy. It is one of those federal statutes - the Civil Rights Act of 1964 - on which Gerald Groff is relying in his case. What does the Civil Rights Act say about employment and religious freedom?

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is best known for prohibiting discrimination in employment based upon race or sex. However, it contains other language preventing employers from discriminating against workers because of their “religion,” including their religious practices and observances. In order to give the protection of religion “real teeth,” Congress, in 1972, added the requirement that employers must “reasonably accommodate” the religious practices of employees as long as those accommodations do not impose “undue hardship on the conduct of an employer’s business.” That language seemed to give strong protection to religiously conscientious employees.

However, soon after the 1972 amendment, the Supreme Court in Trans World Airlines, Inc., v. Hardison (1977) interpreted “undue hardship” to mean any cost which the accommodation imposed upon the employer, beyond the most minimal (de minimis) of costs. This interpretation, often referred to as the “de minimis” rule, effectively judicially rewrote the statutory language. Employers had only to show that their costs of accommodation slightly exceeded minimal costs to be regarded by the courts as having met their duty under Title VII. Naturally, some federal courts across the country and employers that were ideologi-

cally inclined to minimize the duty to accommodate religious practices readily adopted the language of Hardison. Hardison became “established” law in these cases.

Groff is maintaining that the current court ought to revisit and reject the wrongful interpretation of “undue hardship” that the Hardison court espoused and which the lower court in the Groff case used to find against him. What are Groff’s arguments and how should the Supreme Court, as currently constituted, regard them?

Plainly put, Hardison ignored the plain text of Title VII. Congress amended the act in 1972 to require employers to take employee requests for religious accommodation seriously by using language in the amendment that was uncompromisingly clear and direct. Employers could only avoid adjusting for accommodations if the changes produced “hardship” on the employer’s conduct of his business. “Hardship” usually means that something is very hard to bear. Hardship means the employers business would face high costs due to the accommodations.

If one adds to that, as Congress did, the word “undue,” the meaning is even stronger. “Undue” means “excessive.”

Putting both together, the accommodation required by the employee request had to produce a significant, costly, jarring impact on the employer’s conduct of his business for him to avoid the accommodation. The Hardison majority instead opined that if the employer’s business conduct was affected by a little more than a small amount (de minimis), then such constituted “undue hardship.”

The de minimis language is very nearly the exact opposite

See Workers, Page 4

(What we try to do every week)

“Gentlemen, we are going to relentlessly chase perfection, knowing full well we will not catch it because nothing is perfect. But we are going to relentlessly chase it because in the process WE WILL CATCH EXCELLENCE.”

Coach Vince Lombardi

OBITUARIES

Max Shaffer Princeton, Mo.

Max Shaffer was born Jan. 19, 1928 in Mercer County, Mo., to the late Vernon and Sylvia (Rogers) Shaffer. He went to be with the Lord on Easter Sunday, April 9, 2023 at Wright Memorial Hospital, Trenton Missouri surrounded by his loving family at the age of 95.

Max graduated from Ravannna High School in 1946, where he played basketball and met his future bride, Lelia Marie Wright. Max and Lelia were married on June 26, 1954. They were blessed with nearly 69 years of happy married life together and two wonderful sons.

Max tried his hand in the wheat field after graduation, and quickly decided that he did not want to pursue it as a career. He returned to farming with his father and then later with his sons. Max especially enjoyed his black Angus cattle.

Max served on the Morgan and Ravanna township boards. In 1972 and 1975 he received the Outstanding Achievement Award for Mercer County from the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City, Kan., and the University of Missouri Farm Management Program. In 1999 Max received the Goodyear/ NACD Conservation Award for outstanding accomplishments in Resource Conservation. He also received the Mercer County Soil and Water Conservation District Cooperator of the Year in 1999.

Max is preceded in death by his parents, Ver-

non and Sylvia Shaffer; his brother, James LeRoy; his sisters ,Mildred Weaver and Mary Lou Fullerton; and a niece and nephews Karen Rockhold, Greg Weaver and Allan Coon.

Max is survived by his wife, Lelia, of the home; his two sons, James Tracy (Kathy) and Terry Linn (Debi); three grandchildren, Jed (Johnnie), Lacey (Derek) and Cheyenne (Ryan). He is also survived by nine great grandchildren. Max is survived by one sister, Carol Cox and her son Christopher (Sarah) and their two children. Max is also survived by nieces Marsha Hobbs (Dee), Jackie Delameter, Linda Cribb and Connie Peterson. He enjoyed lots of friends and associates throughout the county over his 95 years of life.

His funeral service was Friday, April 14 at Roberson Funeral Home in Princeton, Mo. Burial followed in Ravanna Cemetery, Ravanna, Mo. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Underwood Cemetery to honor Max’s parents and brother, in care of Roberson Funeral Home, PO Box 316, Princeton, MO 64673.

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

ADVERTISE in the Princeton Post-Telegraph today!

CAINSVILLE MELANIE CHANEY

Easter guests of Victor and Dixie Seymour were Scott and Jodi Seymour of Lamoni, Iowa; Tracy and Tracy Seymour of Norwalk, Iowa; Christopher Seymour of Krugerville, Texasp Tyler and Taylor Seymour and Audrey of Altoona, Iowa; and Megan Seymour and Caleb Seymour of Ankeny, Iowa.

Cainsville school news is as follows:

On April 19 there will be the annual diaper league and dessert auction starting at 6 p.m., the FFA chapter officer interviews will be at 5:30 p.m., and there will be sports physicals at 9 a.m. that day. There will be some children attending the State FFA Convention in Columbia on April 20-21. There is a baseball game at Albany on April 21. The Cainsville prom is April 22 from 6-11 p.m.; promenade begins at 6. The FFA chapter banquet is at 5:30 p.m. on April 24. There is a home baseball game against Newtown/Grundy at 5 p.m. on April 25. The HDC Conference track meets will be at South Harrison on April 26.

Any news is appreciated.

Editor’s note: Melanie sent last week’s news in more than enough time to be published, but we didn’t get in our email

inbox it until Tuesday morning (April 11). As you know, our pages have to be at our printer in Astoria, Ill., by 4 p.m. Monday under normal circumstances. We are happy to publish her report this week.

Richard and Helen Frisbie had Easter lunch and a visit with Rich’s sister Wilma Neilson at a care facility in Dallas Center, Iowa. It was arranged by one of her sons and a big surprise for her.

Easter Sunday guests of Lila McLain were Morgan and Sherry McLain of Lenexa, Kan.; Walker and Emily Thomas of Kansas City; Nathan, Sierra, Kaylynn, McKinley and Berkley Wolf of Maysville; and Bryan and Ronda Pash, Joshua and Jackson Pash, Joe, Page, Hunter and Carson Eads, and Randall and Kay Thomas, all of Bethany.

Herman and Melanie Chaney attended an Easter celebration at Herman’s brother George Chaney’s home on Saturday, April 8. That afternoon they attended a seventh birthday party for Maudy Hutton at the Community Building in Cainsville.

Easter dinner guests of

Kenny and Barb McLain were Herman and Melanie Chaney, Isaac, Shyanne, Lakelyn and Lilah Chaney, Amanda Zerbe, Miranda Zerbe, Corbin and Maudy Hutton. An afternoon guest was Travis Hagan.

The Cainsville American Legion had their 1st meeting April 18 at the Legion Hall. There will be a meeting every third Tuesday at 7 p.m. throughout the summer. Please try and attend if you are a member of the Legion or would like to be.

The CWF of the Christian Church held Easter lunch on Thursday, April 6. The worship was entitled “Easter’s Plus Sign, the Cross." Guests attending were Carolyn Easum, Janet and Janice Crouse, Roberta Willis, Penny Cornelison, Rachel Wooden, Hilarie Vaughn and Tessa Callahan.

A seventh birthday party for Maudy Hutton was held on her birthday, April 8, at the Cainsville Community Building. Cake and ice cream were enjoyed by her friends from school and the area along with family.

Lila McLain visited with Nathan, Sierra,

Kaylynn, McKinley and Berkley Wolf in Maysville on April 5. McKinley was recovering from surgery at the time.

Leland Parkhurst celebrated his 98th birthday on April 14. If you see him out and about make sure you wish him a happy birthday.

There was a nice turn out for the annual Merchants Easter egg hunt this year. The people who do this every year could probably use some help for next year, their efforts are greatly appreciated!

Please keep Tara Robbins in your thoughts and prayers as she is recovering from surgery.

Please keep Mark Waddle in your thoughts and prayers as he recovers from surgery.

The bake sale to earn money to have the Opera House’s ticket window displayed properly at the Cainsville Community Building was a huge succes. Everyone’s help with donating amd buying is greatly appreciated!

Princeton council MCADC request for waiver on gas, water deposits

Non-profit group is taking over Zippity’s. All proceeds will go toward its projects.

PRESTON COLE

Editor, the Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON The Princeton City Council approved a request from a nonprofit group to waive utility deposits during its meeting last Monday night (April 10).

Marcia Cox, representing the Mercer County Area Development Corporation (MCADC), asked the city if it would waive deposits for gas and water meters at the building which previously housed the thrift store Zippity’s on East Hickland Street just off the northeast corner of the square.

Cox said Zippity’s closed as of April 1, and that the MCADC hopes to reopen the business on Saturday, May 13 as a thrift store. All proceeds from the store will go back to the community through MCADC projects.

The council unanimously approved the re-

quest. The MCADC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Other actions

• Tim Jackson, a regional sales representative with Metron Meters, discussed new water meters, a software program his company has, and presented a bid proposal to replace the city’s current meters.

Metron’s meters have a 10-year warranty and 10 years worth of data connectivity, and a guaranteed battery life of 20 years, Jackson noted.

Five locations in the city currently have the meters installed on a trial basis. Jackson and city superintendent both said the meters are working well.

No action was taken on the bid. Goodknight said the city has received two other bids.

• The council agreed to use Missouri Public Risk as its health insurance broker, and to allow them to change providers from Cigna to UMR. There will not be any changes in

SCHOOL FOOD

All menus subject to change.

PRINCETON

Thursday, April 27: hash brown casserole, buttered peas, cherry tomatoes, hot roll.

cheese.

CAINSVILLE

cost or coverage.

• Council members approved having McClure Engineering send the methodology for the city’s water rate structure and the new ordinance that about the water rate to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The city is required to send the information to the DNR as part of the city’s water/wastewater project.

• Goodknight said that Princeton R-5 superintendent Jerry Girdner wishes to apply for recreation tax funds to pay for the water line that goes to the ballfield project.

The city technically owns the property where the three new ballfields are located, but Princeton R-5 is in charge of the project.

• Before the meeting began, Mayor Kurt Meighen gave newly elected council members Jimmie Rogers and Peggy Constable the oath of office.

See Princeton council, Page 4

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, April 24: pancake on a stick.

Tuesday, April 25: pancakes, sausage patty.

Wednesday, April 26: breakfast pizza.

Thursday, April 27: cinnamon roll, yogurt.

Friday, April 28: biscuits, sausage gravy.

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, April 24: cheese lasagna rollup, red peppers, breadstick.

Tuesday, April 25: chicken dippers and waffles, hash brown patty, wango mango juice.

Wednesday, April 26: biscuits, sausage gravy, cheese omelet, green beans.

Friday, April 28: hot dog, potato wedges, carrot sticks.

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, April 24: a) McRib; b) sloppy joe; baked fries.

Tuesday, April 25: a) pork loin; b) chicken nuggets; mashed potatoes, green beans, roll.

Wednesday, April 26: a) pizza dunkers; b) tenderloin; corn.

Thursday, April 27: a) spaghetti, cheessesticks; b) chicken sandwich, baked chips.

Friday, April 28: a) hamburger; b) ham sandwich; macaroni and

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, April 24: hot ham and cheese sandwich, french fries.

Tuesday, April 25: fajita, Spanish rice.

Wednesday, April 26: vegetable soup, grilled cheese.

Thursday, April 27: salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, green beans.

Friday, April 28: fish patty, macaroni and cheese.

Lineville City Council discusses parking situation, speeding vehicles

Parking situation now moot since man has quit driving semin.

Speeding on Main Street is a problem

PRESTON COLE

Editor, the Post-Telegraph

LINEVILLE A city resident discussed a parking issue and complained about speeding drivers during the Lineville City Council’s meeting last Monday night (April 10).

Allen Fry asked about complaints about his parking a semi on Main Street, admitting that the

issue isn’t relevant any more because he quit his truck driving job.

Fry then told the council he is tired of vehicles speeding on Main Street, and running or rolling through the stop sign on the north side of the intersection at Main and Sixth Street. Council members present told him that it’s up to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department to enforce the situation, and there’s not anything the city can do.

He then asked for

the city to install speed bumps and/or a new stop sign at the intersection, and said he’d help install a sign. The council agreed to see if the city has any new signs and/or posts on hand to replace the sign.

Other items

• City clerk Brandy Shriver reported shrinkage in the Water Department was 16.69%. She told the council it’s been reported two meters had been overread last month.

She also said the Rathbun Rural Water Associa-

tion will be increating its rates for the city. The current city rate is $3.15 per 1,000 gallons, and it will be increasing to $3.30 starting with the August billing.

Shriver said she’s always had the council look at utility rates every July, so the council will be making a decision about increasing the water rate at that time.

• Mayor Jack Shields said he had maintenance worker Denny Rankin bring in the shoulders on

Apply preemergent herbicides on lawns now

University of MO Extension

GALLATIN Missouri’s unpredictable spring weather makes it tough to decide when to apply preemergent herbicides on lawns, says Manoj Chhetri, University of Missouri Extension horticulturist.

Preemergent herbicides, a form of chemical weed control, prevent germinated weed seedlings from growing.

Preemergents must be applied at the right time of year to be effective, says Chhetri.

Preemergent herbicides are applied mainly to control crabgrass. “Hence, some folks call it a crabgrass preventer,” he says. “But the reality is that it will stop many grassy and

LAND TRANSFERS

Friday, March 31

• Red Iron LLC to Adijer J. Black.

• John Borngreger to Brett A. Rankin.

Monday, April 3

• Darlene Huett to Jeff Davis.

• Dale W. Miller to Dale W. Miller, trustee, et al.

• 146 Enterprises LLC to Dirtbomb’s LLC.

• George Nicholas Morris, trustee, et al to Landon Brown.

Tuesday, April 4

• Gerald D. Broussard Sr. to Rick Knecht et al.

broadleaf weeds.”

Germination of weeds depends on soil temperature. Research shows that crabgrass germinates when the mean soil temperature at a depth of 1 inch reaches 60 degrees Fahrenheit or above for several days. The preemergent product is most effective when the mean soil temperature at 1-inch depth reaches 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit for five days in a row.

Data at agebb.missouri.edu/weather(opens in new window) indicates that this is the time to put down preemergent in southern and central Missouri. “The optimum window would last until the end of April, but the earlier the better,” says

Thursday, April 6

• Vincent L. Reinecke to Alfred John Zehendner.

Tuesday, April 11

• Boweb Farms LLC to Michael Dutschmann.

Wednesday, April 12

• Mercer County Health Systems Inc. to Mercer County, Missouri.

• Scottie Smith to Carolyn Ruth Berndt.

Chhetri. “For northern Missouri, the window would extend one to two weeks later.”

The split application of the recommended amount at 30-45 days intervals would provide more long-lasting results than a single full dose, he says.

Products containing prodiamine, dithiopyr, pendimethalin and mesotrione effectively control crabgrass. Corn gluten meal derived from organic sources can be an alternative preemergent for organic lawns. Follow label directions for mixing and application.

Two-way granular products (fertilizer plus preemergent) are common, but Chhetri does not recommend them since the timing for fertilizer and herbicide do not coincide.

Cool-season lawns in Missouri need spring fertilizer in May; early fertilizer would increase the chance of nutrient leaching and runoff, creating environmental pollutants. Slow-release nitrogen-containing fertilizers would remediate the potential pollutant

Eighth Street, and that someone was supposed to be getting back to him on the cost of concrete for street work.

Shriver said she had contacted Norris Asphalt Paving for asphalt prices, square feet per ton, and other items.

Shields said he’ll be ordering gravel for some streets.

• Shriver reported March revenue was $15,773.33 in governmental funds and $28,984.67 in util-

ity funds. Expenses were $30,255.24 in governmental funds and $20,371.87 in utility funds. The monthly transfer of $1,425 in utility funds was reported.

• Bills of $13,213.10 were approved for payment.

Editor’s note: Information for this report was taken from meeting minutes provided by city clerk Brandy Shriver. All votes reported were unanimous, except where noted.

problems, as these are less likely to leach.

“Herbicides are just one of many practices to manage crabgrass and other weeds,” says Chhetri. “Growing dense, healthy turf with proper fertilizer, irrigation and proper mowing practices are equally essential to compete against weeds.”

More information: “It’s time to start thinking about that pre-emergence,” Missouri Environment & Garden newsletter, https://ipm.missouri.edu/ MEG/2013/2/Its-time-tostart-thinking-about-thatpre-emergence.

MARRIAGE LICENSES

All persons listed are Missouri residents unless otherwise listed.

Friday, April 14

• Jabob L. Obholz, Mason City, Iowa, and Abby M. Frommelt, Earlham, Iowa.

COMMISSION MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION

Report taken from minutes of meetings of the Mercer County Commission. All votes are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

Monday, April 10

• County Clerk Judy Hamilton appointed Zachary Martin as presiding commissioner in Jerry Allen’s absence.

• April 3 meeting minutes were approved.

• Bills were approved and paid.

• Road & Bridge supervisor Shawn Powell presented mileage logs dated Oct. 13, 2022 through April 4, 2023.

• Marion Township Trustee Dean Henley and board member Jim Collier spoke to commissioners about a tube on Bittersweet Place. The township needs a turnaround at the end of the road. Martin will talk to the landowners.

• Commissioners received the treasurer’s monthly balance sheet and balance of current and delinquent taxes, dated March 31, from Collector/Treasurer Susan Moore, as verified by Hamilton. They also received the balance of protested taxes from Hamilton.

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

• Commissioners received the March meal costs for inmates, mileage logs and motor equipment expense reports from Deputies Randy Francis and Riley Nelson, and the motor equipment expense report from Sheriff Jose Lopez.

• The county was notified by the State Auditor’s Office it had

received the Mercer County Financial Statement from Hamilton for the year ending Dec. 31, 2022.

• The county received sales tax and use tax reports from the Missouri Department of Revenue for March, for the county’s use on April 7.

• Commissioners and Hamilton signed a certified copy of order authorizing Moore to pay the following:

*$1,491.88 to Norris Quarries for gravel, and $542.50 to the Mercer County Road & Bridge Department for hauling to Lindley Township (money taken from Lindley Township Fund #43);

*71.61 to Moore for deposit slips ordered (money taken from Treasurer’s Maintenance Fund #34);

*$300 to the Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys for registration (money taken from Prosecuting Attorney’s Training Fund #04);

*$400 to Missouri Sheriffs United for 2023 membership (money taken from Sheriff’s Revolving Fund #35); and

*$808.01 to C&C Bridge & Concrete Inc. for matching funds on Bridge 2550002 BRO-B065 (39), Progress Invoice 8; $586.35 for matching funds on Bridge 01300281 BRO-B065 (42), Progress Invoice 2; $1,129.71 for matching funds on Bridge

25300041 BRO-B065 (41), Progress Invoice 1; $2,243.94 for matching funds on Bridge

25200071 BRO-B065 (40), Progress Invoice 1; and $283.70 for matching funds on Bridge 2550002 BRO-B065 (39), Progress Invoice 9, all to Howe Company LLC. Money was taken from SLFRF/ARPA Grant Fund #07.

• Tracy Kilen spoke to commissioners about First Interstate Bank programs.

SENIOR MENUS

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) 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 under age 60 and older are a suggested contribution of $5. Meals for anyone under age 60 cost $7.

Monday, April 24: Polish sausage/bun, peppers and onions or kraut, fries, emerald pears.

Tuesday, April 25: country fried beef steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, peas and carrots, sliced bread, baked pineapple.

Wednesday, April 26: baked ham, baked sweet potatoes, white hominy, biscuit, 1/2 apple, M&M cookie.

Thursday, April 27: lasagna (with hamburger), lettuce salad, baked corn, breadstick, grape salad.

Friday, April 28: hamburger steak, au gratin potatoes, winter mix, hot roll, assorted fruit, mandarin orange cake, ice cream.

MERCER CO. FOOD PANTRY

Located in the basement of Princeton United Methodist Church.

Second and fourth Tuesday: 9-10:30 a.m.

Other Tuesdays: 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Note: Persons can pick up their food in the church basement. At present, social distancing will be observed, and masks are recommended but not mandatory.

Cooperatives reliable, but they’re not fancy

CALEB JONES

Special to the Post-Telegraph

COLUMBIA I have never been considered the classiest dresser on the block. In fact, when my wife and I were dating, I firmly believe Lindsey thought I was colorblind. Maybe she saw a diamond in the rough, maybe it was pity - I’ve never asked and she’ll never tell.

Most of my fashion-forward clothing style came from growing up on a farm. A good pair of boots kept your feet dry when you stepped in that mudhole. A pair of leather gloves saved your fingers pulling barbed wire. A cowboy hat kept the sun from burning your face, ears and neck, all at the same time. And those old bib overalls had more pockets than I could count to hold spare parts, tools and everything else.

Surviving on the farm meant having the right gear to do the job, along with a place to put it.

Nobody said much about my clothes when I was attending the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources at

COMMENTARY

Mizzou. After all, most of my buddies grew up in rural Missouri and dressed just like me.

It was a different story when I graduated and moved out to Washington, D.C. It took me a little time and a lot of help, but I traded in my boots and bibs for dress shoes and suits. Part of getting the job done meant having the right attire, but I sure missed all of those pockets.

Fashions come and go, but some things never go out of style. I learned that just like a good pair of Big Smith bibs, a well-tailored suit in charcoal or black worked for just about any occasion.

These days it's fashionable for electric utilities to have a row of solar panels spotted in what was once a farm field. I’ve got to wonder if those panels will go the way of bell-bottoms and leisure jackets when someone at

See Cooperatives, Page 10

ADVERTISE in and SUBSCRIBE to the Princeton Post-Telegraph! We appreciate your support!

Cooperatives

From Page 9

Missouri S&T invents a technology that will be more reliable.

If reliability is that timeless charcoal suit, then anything we can’t count on 24/7 is a lot like those skinny jeans I see being sported at Mizzou games. I’d say the most important thing your electric cooperative does is make electricity available for you to use day or night, in sunshine and in rain.

If you turn on the TV at any given time, there’s a good chance you’ll see a story about some blackout going on. The one place you don’t hear about blackouts is in rural Missouri. That’s because, while it may not look fancy, your Missouri electric cooperatives are “dressed” for reliability.

Most of the electricity our cooperatives supply comes from coal plants, gas plants and hydroelectric dams.

While many electric utilities are shutting down these plants, we have realized that’s not possible without putting your electric reliability at risk. That is not only dangerous, it is unacceptable.

The next time you hear about a blackout, remember this - while they may look good, skinny jeans won’t hold a good pair of fencing pliers.

Caleb Jones is the executive vice president and CEO of the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives and a member of Boone Electric Cooperative.

ADVERTISE in the Post-Telegraph today!

PSC gives Evergy certificate in case

KEVIN KELLY Special to the Post-Telegraph

JEFFERSON CITY The Missouri Public Service Commission has granted, with certain conditions, a certificate of convenience and necessity (CCN) to Evergy Missouri West Inc. (EMW) to acquire, own, operate, manage, maintain and control an existing and operational wind generation facility in Woodward, Ellis and Dewey counties (near the town of Vici) in Oklahoma known as the Persimmon Creek Wind Farm (Persimmon Creek).

“It is the public policy of this state to diversify the energy supply through the support of renewable and alternative energy sources,” said the Commission. “The Commission has also previously expressed its general support for renewable energy generation because it provides benefits to the public.”

Persimmon Creek is expected to serve EMW’s customers in Missou-

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 660-7483266 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.

SUBSCRIBE to the Post-Telegraph today!

ri and EMW expects to recover its investment through base rates and operations and maintenance expense (O&M), as opposed to purchased power costs.

After reviewing all of the evidence in the case, the Commission determined that a CCN should be granted but with the condition that the ratepayers and the shareholders share equally any costs associated with owning and operating Persimmon Creek, including but not limited to those related to Plant In Service Accounting (PISA) treatment and any required wildlife mitigation, that exceed the ratepayer realized market revenues including the market value of energy serving EMW’s customer load and ratepayer realized tax benefits.

The Commission also required as a condition for approval of the CCN, that all Production Tax Credits (PTCs) that EMW recognizes for income tax purposes related to Persimmon Creek

be tracked and credited to ratepayers in future rate proceedings and included in the ratepayer realized tax benefits.

Persimmon Creek is an existing electric generating facility with 80 wind turbine generators.

It has a nameplate capacity of 198.6 megawatts (MW). It became operational in August 2018. Persimmon Creek generates renewable energy that provides renewable energy certificates (RECs) and is eligible for currently available federal Production Tax Credits (PTCs).

Evergy Missouri West provides electric service to approximately 336,640 customers in the Missouri counties of Andrew, Atchison, Barton, Bates, Benton, Buchanan, Carroll, Cass, Cedar, Clay, Clinton, Dade, Daviess, DeKalb, Gentry, Grundy, Harrison, Henry, Holt, Jackson, Johnson, Lafayette, Livingston, Mercer, Nodaway, Pettis, Platte, Ray, St. Clair, Vernon and Worth.

TIGERS! CARDINALS!

DIVISION II CIRCUIT COURT

Judge Matthew Krohn

NOTES: Persons listed in this report are Missouri residents unless otherwise noted. Addresses shown are those of the defendants on the day their cases were heard.

Tuesday, April 4

• State vs. Ethan Ray Mathews, Princeton: Mathews appeared for arraignment for Class D misdemeanor purchase, attempt to purchase, or possession of liquor by a minor (first offense). He was advised of his right to counsel, and waived that right. He also waived arraignment and entered a plea of guilty. Imposition of sentence was suspended, and he was ordered to pay $107.50 in court costs, $250 to the county law enforcement restitution fund, and a $10 crime victims compensation judgment.

A file review was scheduled for April 18 at 9 a.m. to check payment, but Mathews paid the costs on April 7.

Mathews also appeared for a probation violation hearing involving his 2022 conviction for Class A misdemeanor fourth-degree domestic assault (first or second offense). He admitted violation one condition of his probation. Probation was continued, with the special condition of serving 48 hours in jail from 9 a.m. April 8 to 9 a.m. April 10, and paying costs.

• State vs. Carly Mae Smith, Independence: Smith did not appear for a payment status hearing involving her 2019 convictions for Class A misdemeanor driving while intoxicated with person less than 17 years of age in the vehicle, Class D misdemeanor operated motor vehicle on highway without a valid license (first offense), Class A

misdemeanor failure to drive on the right half of the roadway when roadway was of sufficient width (resulting in an accident), and Class D misdemeanor operated motor vehicle owned by another knowing owner of vehicle has not maintained financial responsibility. She had asked for a continuance. The Court ordered the amount she owes be sent to debt collection.

• State vs. Carlos Arnulfo Valle Moreno, Mercer: Moreno appeared without counsel for arraignment for Class B misdemeanor exceeded posted speed limit by 26 mph or more. He waived arraignment and entered a plea of guilty. Imposition of sentence was suspended. He was placed on probation for one year, was ordered to pay $71.50 in court costs and $250 to the county law enforcement restitution fund, and to view the dangerous driving DVD and write at least a one-page essay. A file was scheduled for May 16 at 9 a.m. to check payment and the DVD essay conditions.

• State vs. Trey Ryan Schooler, Princeton: Schooler appeared with his attorney for a preliminary hearing for Class D felony second-degree

assault. The state presented evidence, and the Court found probable cause to believe a felony had been committed, and to believe Schooler had committed it. He was bound over to Division I of Mercer County Circuit Court for arraignment on May 10 at 9 a.m.

• State vs. Chad M. Hill, Milan: Hill appeared with his attorney for a preliminary hearing for two counts Class E felony passing a bad check. The state presented evidence and the Court found probable cause to believe the felonies had been committed, and to believe Hill had committed them. He was bound over to Division I of Mercer County Circuit Court for arraignment on May 10 at 9 a.m.

• State vs. Ivy J. Ormsby, Princeton: Ormsby appeared with her attorney on a charge of Class D felony delivery or possession of a controlled substance at a county or private jail or correctional center except with a prescription. A preliminary hearing was set for May 2 at 2 p.m.

• State vs. Donnie

E. Gannon, Princeton: Gannon appeared with his attorney for Class A misdemeanor driving while intoxicated (pri-

or offender), and Class D misdemeanor driving while revoked or suspended (first offense). At his request, cause continued to April 18 for a plea or trial setting and plea negotiations. The state’s motion to revoke Gannon’s probation was scheduled to be heard.

• State vs. Parker A. Coon, Princeton: Coon appeared with his attorney for Class B misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, Class C misdemeanor failure to drive on the right half of roadway when roadway was of sufficient width, and Class D misdemeanor purchase, attempt to purchase, or possession of liquor by a minor (first offense). At his request, cause continued to April 18 at 9 a.m. for a plea or trial setting and plea negotiations.

• State vs. Jessica Rae Claycomb-Beltz, Vandalia: Accompanied by her attorney, Claycomb-Beltz appeared in custody for a trial setting for two counts of Class D felony first-degree tampering with a motor vehicle. The case was set for a preliminary hearing on April 18 at 2 p.m.

• State vs. Ray Frank Lewis, Princeton: Accompanied by his attorney, Lewis appeared in

custody for a criminal motion setting involving 2021 convictions for Class A misdemeanor driving while revoked or suspended (second or third offense), and misdemeanor owner operated motor vehicle without maintaining financial responsibility (motor vehicle required to be registered; second and subsequent offense). At his request, cause continued to April 18 at 10 a.m. for a criminal motion setting and a probation violation hearing.

Lewis also appeared for a plea or trial setting on 2023 Class E felony charges of unlawful use of a weapon (exhibiting) and unlawful use

of a weapon (possessed weapon and a felony controlled substance), plus 2023 charges of Class D felony possession of a controlled weapon, and Class A misdemeanor unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. At his request, cause continued to April 18 at 10 a.m.

See Division II, Page 12

Division II Court From Page 2 vehicle required to be registered), and Class B misdemeanor failure to register motor vehicle. He is believed to be incarcerated. The money he owes was sent to debt collection.

• State vs. Alexis Alize Graham, Mercer: Graham did not appear for a probation violation hearing for her 2022 conviction for Class B operated motor vehicle in a careless and imprudent manner. Her attorney was present and requested a continuance, and cause continued to April 18 at 9 a.m. Graham was to be present.

• State vs. Daniel Earl Windsor II, Moberly: Accompanied by his attorney, Windsor appeared in custody for a trial setting on two 2020 charges of Class A felony first-degree child molestation of a victim under 12 years of age (with a previous conviction under Chapter 566). A preliminary hearing was set for May 16 at 2:30 p.m.

• State vs. David W. Strasburg, Mercer: Strasburg did not appear for a payment review hearing for his 2022 conviction for Class A misdemeanor stealing. It was noted that Strasburg has been making regular payments, and cause was continued to July 18 at 9 a.m.

• State vs. Morgan Michelle Smith, Ridgeway: Smith appeared for Class D misdemeanor operated motor vehicle owned by another knowing owner of vehicle has not maintained financial responsibility. At her request, cause continued to April 18 at 9 a.m. for arraignment.

• State vs. Shelley L. Service, Chillicothe: Accompanied by her attorney, Service appeared in custody for a trial setting for Class D felony charges of abuse or neglect of a child under Section 568.060.5(1) (no sexual contact), and first-degree endangering the welfare of a child creating substantial risk (first offense, no sexual contact). A preliminary hearing was set for April 18 at 3 p.m.

• State vs. Paul Redding, Corydon, Iowa: Redding appeared on a 2007 Class C felony charge of passing a bad check ($500 or more, no account or insufficient funds). At his request, cause continued to April 18 at 9 a.m. for plea negotiations or disposition.

• State vs. Michael Dillion Odor, Spickard: Odor did not appear for a hearing involving his 2022 convictions for Class D misdemeanor charges of possession of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid of 10 grams or less, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, and owner operated motor vehicle without maintaining financial responsibility (motor

• State vs. Hannah Mary Navarro, Princeton: Navarro did not appear for an infraction charge, failure to display plates on motor vehicle. A warrant for her arrest was ordered issued, with bond set at $350 cash only. On April 10, the warrant was recalled because Navarro had paid a $50.50 fine after a guilty plea was written.

• State vs. Jerry Dean Urick, Gladstone: Urick appeared in custody for arraignment for a 2021 Class A misdemeanor charge of passing a bad check. He was advised of right to counsel, and waived that right. He was arraigned and entered a plea of guilty. Execution of sentence was suspended, and he was ordered to pay $159.09 in restitution, $107.50 in court costs and a $10 crime victims compensation judgment. A file review was set for July 18 at 10 a.m. to check payment.

• State vs. Patricia Marie Hurt, Chillicothe: Hurt did not appear for a payment review hearing for her 2022 conviction for Class A misdemeanor sex offender physically present or loitering within 500 feet of a childcare facility when a child younger than 18 years of age was present (first offense). She failed to appear because she is in the Department of Corrections. The amount due was sent to debt collection.

• State vs. Michael Grant Miller, Lineville, Iowa: Miller did not appear on 2022 Class A misdemeanor charges of second-degree stalking (first offense) and second-degree harassment, and Class B misdemeanor peace disturbance (first offense). His attorney was present, and she requested a continuance. A pre-trial conference was scheduled for April 18 at 11 a.m., and a May 4 trial date was set aside by an agreement of counsel.

• State vs. Lorrie Dolan, Harris: Dolan failed to appear on two Class A misdemeanor charges of passing a bad check. A warrant for her arrest was ordered issued, with bond set at $500 cash only in each case.

SUBSCRIBE to the Princeton Post-Telegraph today!

Keep road workers safe during record year

COLE DUENCKEL

Special to the Post-Telegraph

JEFFERSON CITY With a record-breaking $1.8 billion for road and bridge work this year, Missouri motorists can expect to encounter a significant amount of work zones and ongoing maintenance operations during their travels this year. The Missouri Department of Transportation is hosting the National Work Zone Awareness Week April 17-21, urging motorists to “Work with Us” by making smart, safe driving choices behind the wheel to protect themselves and those they share the road with, including highway workers.

“The decisions you make in work zones could be the difference between life and death, for our workers, yourself

and everyone you share the road with,” said MoDOT Director Patrick McKenna. “Any time you pass highway workers on a Missouri roadwaywhether it’s a long-term closure, a moving operation or shoulder work - buckle up, put your phone down, slow down and stay alert.”

It’s not just a courtesy to slow down and move over for these work zones - it’s the law. Drivers should be aware of changing traffic conditions, observe warning signs and merge before reaching lane closures.

With a record number of construction projects, you can help make your travel safer by checking out what work zones you’ll encounter before you go. Visit MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at www.

traveler.modot.org.

In 2022, Missouri saw fewer work zone protective vehicle crashes and fatalities. Crashes with protective vehicles with truck/trailer-mounted attenuators (TMAs) totaled 36 in 2022, a decrease of 25 from the previous construction season. Work zone crash fatalities also decreased, down to 15 compared to 17 the year before.

“These numbers will hopefully be the start of a positive trend downward,” said McKenna. “Regardless, these crashes and fatalities should not be happening in work zones, and there is much work that needs to be done to improve our worker’s safety and the safety of the traveling public.”

Over the past three

years, TMA crashes resulted in 75 injuries and two fatalities. These crashes are almost always a result of drivers being distracted behind the wheel and/or driving too fast for the conditions. In 2022, distracted driving contributed to more than 400 work zone crashes. Additionally, 71% of those killed in work zone crashes were not wearing a seat belt.

Be sure to do your part to save lives in work zones. Missouri’s strategic highway safety plan, Show-Me Zero, provides information for all Missourians to help promote four key messages: buckle up, phone down, slow down, and drive sober. The plan can be viewed at www.savemolives.com.