08-31-2023 Post Telegraph

Page 1

County schools show growth

Princeton R-5 up 11 kids over last day of 2022-23

PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON Enrollment in the Princeton R-5 School District on the first day of the 2023-24 academic year last Tuesday (Aug. 22) showed a slight increase over enrollment on the last day of the 2022-23 term.

Information provided by the district showed that 337 students were enrolled on Aug. 22, compared to 326 at the end of 2022-23, for an increase of 11 students.

There were 171 students enrolled at the junior/senior high school building, 118 in grades 9-12 and 53 in the two junior high grades. A class-by-class breakdown:

Seniors - 29; juniors - 29; sophomores - 28; freshmen32 (the school’s largest class); eighth - 28; seventh - 25.

There were 166 kids enrolled in the elementary building. A breakdown:

Kindergarten - 30; first grade - 26; second grade - 21; third grade - 27; fourth grade - 17 (the district’s smallest class); fifth grade - 25; sixth grade - 20.

Mercer enrollment up 14

MERCER The North Mercer County R-3 school district also showed an enrollment on its first day (Aug. 22) of the 202324 academic year.

Mercer had 146 children enrolled in grades K-12 - 78 in grades K-6 and 68 in grades 7-12. Mercer ended the 202223 academic year with 132 students, meaning the district gained 14 students during the summer months.

A grade-by-grade breakdown was not provided.

Mercer also has nine students enrolled in its preschool program.

Mercer board raises tax levy

Tax rate increases by almost 26 cents. Owens to return as girls basketball coach, part-time teacher. Ten teachers will get payments to take their salaries to state base of $38,000 PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

MERCER Members of the Mercer school board approved the district’s 2023 property tax levy during its annual tax levy hearing on Aug. 14.

The new Princeton branch of Farmers Bank of Northern Missouri opened last Monday (Aug. 21), and the Princeton Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on Aug. 22. Mitch Reger (center), executive vice president of Farmers Bank’s Princeton and Mercer facilities, wielded the ceremonial ribbon.

Make safety part of your Labor Day plans

safe 2023 Labor Day weekend. Whether you are on the water or on the road, it’s everyone's responsibility to travel safely

Tigers score 2023’s first touchdown

and observe all Missouri laws. Never operate a vehicle or vessel while you are impaired. Alcohol affects your judgement, reaction time, vision, coordination, and comprehension. The movement of the boat, vibration and noise from the boat’s motor, sun, and wind are all boating stressors and enhance the effect of alcohol on your body. If alcohol is part of your water activities, drink responsibly, and never operate a vessel if you’ve consumed alcohol.

See Labor Day, Page 3

The new tax levy is $5.18.94 cents on the $100 of assessed valuation, which is 25.98 cents higher than the 2022 levy of $4.9296.

Superintendent Wade Hall noted the district’s assessed valuation dropped by $800,000 during this year’s reassessment. He said that was due to Smithfield closing facilities and depreciation on vehicles, plus other factors.

All the money the levy is expected to bring in - just over $1.02 million - will go into the incidental fund. Mercer doesn’t have any debt to pay off, and transfers money from the incidental fund to the capital projects fund when needed.

See Mercer school board, Page 4

TERRY

/Princeton Post-Telegraph

In its historic first-ever 8-man football game, Princeton scored first just 14 seconds into the first quarter on a 44yard pass from Clay Evans to Talan Holt, and the Tigers’ offensive line celebrated. From left: Corbin Powell (#7), Nico Rubio (#56), Evan Houck

THE ONLY COMPLETE SOURCE FOR MERCER COUNTY NEWS AND SPORTS INFORMATION! Sports ----------- 2 Classified Ads --- 3 TIGERS OPEN 8-MAN FOOTBALL ERA WITH BIG OFFENSE, CLOSE LOSS - 2 75¢ News ---------- 3-8 MC Commission 3 Obituaries ------- 5 New MO Laws -- 6 Volume 151, No. 35 - Princeton, MO 64673 Thursday, August 31, 2023 FIND THIS INFORMATION AND MORE IN THIS WEEK’S PRINCETON POST-TELEGRAPH Farmers Bank Princeton branch opens for business
PRESTON COLE/Princeton Post-Telegraph KELLY (#51) and Hunter Lowrey (right). Game story and photos appear on Page 2. Special to the Post-Telegraph JEFFERSON CITY The Missouri State Highway Patrol, encourages everyone to plan for a
Post 8-31-2023_1.indd 1 8/28/23 12:36 PM Princeton 8-31-2023.indd 1 8/28/23 3:23 PM

PRINCETON TIGER FOOTBALL

8-man era begins with big scoring, close loss

Tigers score season’s first TD just 14 seconds in, but Knights get lead and holds it

PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON Folks say 8-man football is a quick, high-scoring game. What took place Friday night on Eddie Allen Field did nothing to change that notion.

Playing the first 8-man game in Princeton history, the Tigers needed just 14 seconds to score the 2023 season’s first points, but South Holt scored three times in the first quarter and three more times in the second, as the Knight held on for a 58-50 non-conference victory.

Starting quarterback Clay Evans, who suffered a knee injury late in the first quarter and never returned, found Talan Holt behind SH’s defense for a 44-yard TD completion. Holt’s 2-point run gave the Tigers an 8-0 lead.

The Knights scored three times after that - Cole Medsker on a 36-yard run, Tylynn Prussman on a 29yard pass from Medsker, and Medsker on a 19-yard run. Two conversion kicks - supposedly a rarity in 8-man - and a 2-point pass, both after Medsker’s second score, put SH up 22-8 after the first quarter.

The second quarter was relative tame over the first nine minutes before all hell broke loose during the final three minutes, as each team scored three TDs.

Holt, who moved to quarterback after Evans’ injury, tossed a 45-yard strike to Ethan Rhoades at the 2:42 mark; Holt’s 2-point run made it 22-16.

Cade Kurtz sprinted 60 yards with the ensuing kicked, and a PAT book put SH up 29-16 with 2:31 left.

The Tigers got two quick scores within eight seconds to pull to within a point. Holt scored with 2:12 left, then Chanse Glenn recovered a Knight fumble in the SH end zone for a touchdown at the 2:04 juncture. But the Tigers were stopped on both 2-point tries to keep the score 29-28 Knights.

South Holt got TD passes from Kurtz to Kendal No-

TERRI KELLY/Princeton Post-Telegraph Princeton’s Talan Holt (#13) and an unidentifiable Tiger take on South Holt’s offensive line.

land (63 yards) and Prussman (48 yards, with eight seconds) left, and Kurtz tossed a couple of 2-point passes for a 45-28 halftime lead.

Both defenses stiffened during the third quarter, with Holt’s 71-yard run, and subsequent 2-point run, pulling the Tigers to within 45-36 with 4:19 left.

The teams traded scores in the fourth. Medsker threw 5 yards to Kurtz at the 10:51 mark, but Princeton answered with a 17-yard pass from Holt to freshman Corbin Powell with 7:54 left in the game to cut the gap to 51-42.

Medsker scored on a 1-yard burst with 2:46 left, and the PAT made it 59-42. Holt got the game’s final points on a 1-yard run with 16 seconds left, then added a 2-point run to complete the scoring at 58-50 Knights. Holt piled up 370 yards of total offense, 197 rushing

and 173 passing. The Tigers got 430 yards of total offense, 227 passing (Evans threw for 54 before he was hurt) and 203 rushing. South Holt outgained the Tigers by four yards (434), 244 rushing and 190 passing. Medsker gained 190 yards on the ground.

The win pushed the Knights into the 8-Man Coaches Association poll in a tie for No. 10 with Nodaway Valley, a co-op between West Nodaway and NodawayHolt.

NEXT: Platte Valley - The Tigers start a 3-game road trip on Friday night in Hopkins against No. 2 Platte Valley, the South Nodaway/Jefferson/North Nodaway co-op. The program without a mascot is coming off a 38-34 win over then-No. 1 Worth County last week.

TIGER STATISTICS - OFFENSE

Rushing - Talan Holt 16-197, Cooper Boxley 3-18, Tyler Coffman 1-4, Ethan Rhoades 1 (minus 3), Clay Evans 4 (minus 12).

Passing - Evans 2-8-0 – 54; Holt 9-19-3 – 173.

Receiving - Rhoades 2-65, Coffman 2-42, Boxley 2-5, Holt 1-44, Corbin Powell 1-17.

DEFENSE - Tackles (listed in order of solo tackles, assisted tackles and total tackles):

Evan Houck 7/7 - 14, Holt 5/0 - 5, Coffman 5/6 - 11, Rhoades 4/5 - 9, Kelby Thomas 3/6 - 9, Boxley 1/4 - 5, Powell 1/1 - 2, Nico Rubio 1/1 - 2, Chanse Glenn 1/67, Hunter Lowrey 1/1/ - 2, Payton Miller 1/0 - 1, Gavin Stockman 0/1 - 1, Robbie Miller 0/1 - 1. QB sacks - Holt.

Tackles for loss - Holt 2, Rubio.

Interceptions - Rhoades.

Fumble recoveries - Thomas, Glenn. Defensive TDs - Glenn.

2 • Princeton Post-Telegraph • SPORTS August 31, 2023
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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

There are early deadlines for next week’s Courier (Princeton section) and Princeton Post-Telegraph. Please see box for details.

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.

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.

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).

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 4-27-23-52tpP+C

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

NO HUNTING

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 OR TRESPASSING on any land owned by LAKE MARIE PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION. 7-28-52tbP+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. 3-30-23-52tpP

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

GUNS & AMMO WOOD’S GUN SHOP

5 Miles South of Ravanna

660-748-5795

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

SERVICES

Boyer Land Company LLC

Aaron Franklin, Sales Agent Princeton, MO 64673

660-748-6314

YOUR REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST!

1-5-2023ufnP+C

WANTED: HUNTING LAND

WANTED: Looking for deer hunting lease in Harrison, Mercer, Putnam or Worth County for 2023 season and beyond. Will pay top dollar, not an outfitter. Fully insured, references available. 1-715495-3241. 8-17-4tbP+C

GARAGE SALES ETC.

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

Garage Sale. 8 to ?, Saturday, Sept. 2, Terry Puffer residence, 14596 North Olive Street, Mercer. Lots of good clothes and household items. Puffer, Wyatt, Rhoades and Johnson. 8-31-bP+C

FOR SALE

For Sale - Gas log splitter. $375. 3 point log splitter. Call 660-292-01139. 8-24-2tbP+C

For Sale - Nice Whitney piano, several serviceable used tools, some nice kitchen items, 2 nice sleeping bags, nice electric food grinder, some very nice horse tack. Call 660-748-4183. 8-31pP+C

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Midwest Farms LLC, an established and progressive pork company located in Burlington, Colorado, is accepting applications for leadership positions in pork production. If you are honest and like working with and caring for animals, we would like you to be a part of our team. We offer a competitive salary and benefit package which includes paid vacation, holidays, sick leave, and medical and dental insurance. Please email us for an application at jobs@midwestfarms.com or call 719-3467211 for more information.

8-24-4tbP+C

CAINSVILLE

MELANIE CHANEY

Clinton McLain surprised his three boys and took them to the Omaha zoo on Saturday, Aug. 26. They stayed the night, then got up early Sunday and the boys wanted to eat at IHOP. After that they ventured to Bass Pro and then made their way home.

A Sweet 16 birthday party was held for Aspen Zerbe at her home west of Cainsville on Saturday, Aug. 26. Lots of family and friends attended. They all enjoyed a DJ, dancing, visiting and good food.

A surprise 50th birthday party was held for Travis McLain on Aug. 26 at the American Legion hall in Cainsville. Lots of family and friends attended and enjoys lots of visiting and great food.

Cainsville R-1 is back in session. It was a hot one last week but it was a good week and nice to see everyone again. Junior high and varsity softball play at Gilman City on Thursday, Aug. 31 at 5 p.m.

September birthdays that I’m aware of are as follows: Sierra Wolf, Art McGuire, Rhonda Hamilton, Elke Williams, Becky Sobotka, Victoria McLain, Cody Kohler, Rebecca Deskins, Sabrina Wonsetler, Penny Cain, Shaundra Nash, Brooke Loving, Jake Loving, Shane Vaughn, Walker Thomas, Jordon Crouse, Kayden Willson, Roger Easum, Derek Alexander, Mike Booth, Jeremy Hart, Don Doty, Timothy Doty, Richard McLain, Dixie Waddle, Louise Kellner, Cathy McLain, Dixie Francis, Sue Kokesh and Rusty Elmore. Let me know anyone I forgot, thanks!

A baby shower for Kevin and Chandra (Bain) Noyes was held at the Cainsville Community Building over the weekend. Lots of friends and family attended.

COMMISSION MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION

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

Monday, Aug. 21

• Minutes of the open session and a closed session held during the special Aug. 16 meeting were approved.

• Bills were approved for payment.

• Carla Miller came in to ask commissioners if anyone from the Twin Lake Board had been in to talk with them.

• The county received a report from the Missouri Department of Revenue for motor fuel taxes, motor vehicle sales tax, and motor vehicle fee increases, a total of $52,420.25 for the county’s use on Aug. 21.

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.

Labor Day

From Page 9

The 2023 counting period for the Labor Day holiday will be from 6 p.m., Friday, Sept. 1 11:59 p.m. Monday, Sept. 4.

The Labor Day holiday is a busy boating weekend. Before you take your boat on the water, inspect fuel lines and hose connections for leaks, and test the battery to confirm it is charged. When refueling, turn off any electrical devices which could create a spark. After refueling, open the engine compartment to visually inspect and smell for fuel leaks. Activate the blower system for at least four minutes before restarting the vessel.

In 2022, there were eight boating crashes which included one fatality and five injuries. One person drowned over last year’s Labor Day holiday. Troopers arrested five people for boating while intoxicated during last year's counting period.

Marine enforcement troopers will be working to make the waterways safer during the holiday weekend. Missouri’s boaters are asked to do their part by remaining alert for other boats and swimmers and being courteous on the water. Smaller vessels should yield right-of-way to

larger vessels. Boaters should avoid overloading their boat with too many passengers and always pay close attention to the boats around them. Causing harm to another person or their property with an excessive boat wake may subject you to enforcement action or civil liability. Treat other boaters and property owners as you want to be treated. Be courteous and follow all of Missouri’s boating laws. Remember: Life jackets save lives. Wear one when you are on or around water.

If you’ll be on the road this Labor Day holiday, make sure your vehicle is in good working condition before you depart. Drive courteously and obey all of Missouri's traffic laws. Remember to buckle up and pay attention as you travel.

Help ensure a safer Labor Day weekend for everyone.

In Missouri, seven people died and 398 were injured in 1,041 traffic crashes over the 2022 Labor Day holiday. This means one person was killed or injured every 11.5 minutes. Troopers arrested 121 people for driving while intoxicated during last year’s holiday weekend.

The Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation CARE (Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort) over the Labor Day holiday weekend. Speed, inattention, and impaired driving are leading causes of traffic crashes. All available troopers will be patrolling Missouri’s roadways and waterways. Troopers on the roadways will be enforcing Missouri’s speed limit, seat belt, and impaired driving laws, in addition to being available to assist motorists.

The public is encouraged to call the Patrol’s Emergency Report Line, 800-525-5555, or *55 on your cellular phone if they witness criminal activity or experience an emergency. These emergency numbers are operational for both highway

and water emergencies. If your celebration includes alcohol, designate someone else to drive whether you are in your boat or your car. Please don’t become a statistic.

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

Monday, Sept. 4: Senior Center closed.

Tuesday, Sept. 5: cheesy potato and smoked sausage casserole, brussel sprouts, cherry salad, poppy seed muffin.

Wednesday, Sept. 6: taco salad (with hamburger, chips, lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese and salsa), refried beans, Spanish rice, M & M cookie, raspberry.

Thursday, Sept. 7: Swedish meatballs, egg noodles, glazed carrots, apricots.

Friday, Sept. 8: hot pork sandwich with mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, assorted fruit, pumpkin bars.

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.

ADVERTISE in the Princeton Post-Telegraph today!

CLASSIFIED ADS • NEWS • Princeton Post-Telegraph • 3 August 31, 2023
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Mercer school board From Page 1

During the board’s regular meeting, the board employed high school girls basketball coaches, approved payments to get several teachers to Missouri’s $38,000 base salary, and a policy that would allow students who take online classes to be eligible for extracurricular activities. Here’s the new boss, same as the old boss

After a scheduled closed session, the board voted 5-1 to employ Dan Owens as head girls basketball coach - and halftime teacher - for the 2023-24 season and academic year, respectively.

Owens retired earlier this summer as Mercer’s superintendent and girls coach. His Mercer girls teams posted a record of 320 wins and 69 losesincluding the 2017 Class 1 championship game, during which the Cardinals beat Walnut Grove for the title - and his boys teams went 240-61, for an overall record of 560130. He was inducted into the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association in 2021.

The vote to hire Owens was 5-1, with Makella Hagan voting against the move.

Jody Owens (Dan’s wife) was hired as assistant coach. The couple have been a “tag team” on the Mercer bench for the past several seasons. The move was made unanimously among the six board members present. Now making the minimum

On as many unanimous votes, the board voted to pay 10 teachers between $400 and $56,000 to get them to Missouri’s $38,000 minimum salary

that schools have to pay if they participate in the state’s grant program. All the increases will be paid in two installments. Those teachers, and the amount they’ll be paid to get to $38,000, are:

Sherri Barker, $5,600; Nancy Claycomb, $5,200; Melissa Eakes, $1,400; Joanne Fisher, $400; Brooke Leeper, $5,200; Dan Martin, $2,000; Brady McElvain, $5,600; Heather Michaelis, $1,200; Heather Moorman, $5,200; and Courtney Scroggie, $4,000.

Change in extracurricular policy

During a discussion about approving handbooks, the student handbook was revised to reflect the district’s partnership with Launch, an online education program.

Mercer is a partner with Launch, which means students using it can take a full-time, online schedule and still be considered a Mercer student instead of being a MOCAP student. The cost to use Launch for an entire school year is $4,240.

Last year, Mercer followed its rule that students had to be in at least four in-seat classes to be eligible for extracurricular activities.

According to Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) rules, there are three ways students

can be eligible for MSHSAA-sponsored activities - be a “traditional,” in-person student; be a non-traditional 1 student (student taking virtual classes); or be a non-traditional 2 (homeschooled) student.

Hall told board members they need to create a policy to add to the handbook. He said he’s worried about potential financial effects of allowing Launch students to be eligible, but he’s not against kids doing more activities.

He said pros include increased turnout for activities and the opportunity for socialization. Cons include the fact that no other schools in the area allow it, fairness to in-person students, and the potential cost that comes with vitrual learning.

Mental health issues, lack of certified teachers, and more flexible schedules are some reasons kids choose online classes.

Board secretary/treasurer Teri Noe said extra-

curricular activities build students’ character. Board member Matt Davis said that if Mercer allows one student to participate, it has to allow it for all.

District patron, parent and former Mercer teacher Megan Martin told the board that all kids learn differently, every kid should be able to participate in extracurricular activities, and that a traditional setting doesn’t work for everyone.

Hagan asked if administrators can see when kids are logged into Launch. Hall said they can check any time of day, and students will be accountable for their grades.

The board voted 4-2 to allow non-traditional students 1 to participate in extracurricular activities per the MHHSAA Official Handbook. Dana Stark and Davis voted in the negative Other actions

• The usual monthly reports were approved.

• The 2022-23 ASBR (Annual Secretary of the Board Report), which is an end-of-year financial

report, was approved. Mercer’s unrestricted fund balance at the end of the 2022-23 school year on June 30 was 64.51%.

• The special education local compliance plan was approved. Mercer will use DESE’s (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education) model compliance plan.

• The conflict of interest statement was approved.

It says that neither Hall (chief administrative officer) and bookkeeper Jennifer Wilson (chief purchasing officer) make decisions for personal financial gain.

• The staff social media policy was approved.

• The adult lunch price was increased 20 cents, to $3.45.

• The Return to Learn Plan was approved.

• In his report, Hall not-

ed a leak in the art room and the air condition unit in the agriculture education building have been repaired.

The district will learn on Sept. 1 if a preschool grant was approved.

The new softball field scoreboard is to be shipped today (Aug. 31).

• After the closed session, Rob Koon was employed to work one day a week on technology items, at a rate of $35 an hour for four hours.

• The board voted to pay $30 per event for an administrative supervisor. Persons will have use of a school vehicle so that no mileage has to be paid.

Editor’s Note: Information for this report was taken from unapproved meeting minutes provided by district bookkeeper Jennifer Lynn Wilson.

4 • Princeton Post-Telegraph • NEWS August 31, 2023
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OBITUARIES

Richard Preszler

Princeton, Mo.

Richard Dean Preszler, 71, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023, at his home in Princeton, Mo.

He was born on August 8, 1952, in Davenport, Iowa, the son of Jerome and Mary (Little) Preszler.

He married Kathy Ruth McBain in Wisconsin in 1979. She survives of the home.

Richard was a 1972 graduate of Mercer High School, and was a member of Princeton First Assembly of God Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In addition to his wife, Richard is survived by his son, Brian Preszler, Brookfield, Mo.; daughter, Michelle Howard, Raleigh, N.C.; granddaughter, Alexia Preszler; grandson, Donavon Lawson; brothers Terry Preszler, Trenton, Mo., and Steve Miller, Rockford, Ill.; a sister, Cindy Miller, Joplin, Mo.; and many nieces and nephews.

Richard has been cremated under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home of Princeton. The family will hold a memorial service at a later date. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.

MARRIAGE LICENSES

All persons listed are Missouri residents unless otherwise listed.

Monday, Aug. 21

• Cashman D. Hartley and Jentry S. Freemyer, both of Mercer.

LAND TRANSFERS

Friday, Aug. 18

• Zane C. Bratsburg to the Millburn Family Trust.

• Chad Snapp to Terry A. Summers.

• Chadly Ryan Snapp to Terry A. Summers.

Monday, Aug. 21

• Bradley Burrows to Michael K. Hudalla.

• Barbara Lee to Gary F. Thomas.

Wednesday, Aug. 23

• Samuel E. Walkup, trustee, to Michael T. Holt.

• Michael R. Council to the John C. Hartley and Lori L. Hartley Family Trust.

• Stephanie Council et al to the John C. Hartley and Lori L. Hartley Family Trust.

• Glen Ray Otto to Aaron Yoder.

• Rousse Investments LLC to HI LLC.

• Jared Mayberry et al to HI LLC.

• Gary L. Couchman to the Gary L. and Patricia S. Couchman Irrevocable Trust.

SCHOOL FOOD

All menus subject to change.

PRINCETON

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

Monday, Sept 4: no school.

Tuesday, Sept. 5: pancakes, sausage patty.

Wednesday, Sept. 6: breakfast pizza.

Thursday, Sept. 7: cinnamon roll.

Friday, Sept. 8: 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, Sept. 4: no school.

Tuesday, Sept. 5: fish sticks or chicken patty, macaroni and cheese, fresh broccoli and cauliflower.

Wednesday, Sept. 6: pork carnitas taco or bean and cheese burrito, Spanish rice, shredded lettuce and tomatoes.

Thursday, Sept. 7: spaghetti with meat sauce or chicken alfredo, green beans, breadsticks.

Friday, Sept. 8: corn dog or hamburger, potato wedges, red peppers, dessert.

MERCER

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

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

Lunch is served with milk. A salad bar and fruits and vegetables are available every day, except where noted.

MERCER COUNTY 4-DAY WEATHER

National Weather Service, Pleasant Hill/Kansas City, Time of forecast: Monday, Aug. 28, 9:27 a.m.

Thursday, Aug. 31: Sunny; 80/61

Friday, Sept. 1: Sunny, warmer; 86/67

Saturday, Sept. 2: Mostly sunny, warmer; 92/70

Sunday, Sept. 3: Sunny, warm; 93

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, Sept. 4: no school.

Tuesday, Sept. 5: a) chicken and noodles; b) unknown; mashed potatoes, green beans, roll.

Wednesday, Sept. 6: a) hot dog; b) deli sandwich; steamed broccoli, chips.

Thursday, Sept. 7: (a) fish filet; b) soft taco; macaroni and cheese.

Friday, Sept. 8: a) nacho supreme; b) chicken sandwich; refried beans. CAINSVILLE Breakfast is served with fruit, juice, and milk.

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

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

Monday, Sept. 4: no school.

Tuesday, Sept. 5: pulled pork, baked beans.

Wednesday, Sept. 6: chicken alfredo, breadsticks.

Thursday, Sept. 7: hot ham and cheese, chips.

Friday, Sept. 8: burritos, corn.

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.

Have an original item you’d like published in the Princeton Post-Telegraph? Send it to us by email: posttele@grm.net. Photos on a jpeg, please.

NEWS • Princeton Post-Telegraph • 5 August 31, 2023
Forecasts reflect daytime high, followed by overnight low. Weather forecasts change often. Check local radio, weather radio, or the NWS website (www.weather.gov) for updates.
Post 8-31-2023_5.indd 1 8/28/23 12:38 PM Princeton 8-31-2023.indd 5 8/28/23 3:23 PM

Synopsis of new Missouri laws which went into effect Monday, Aug. 28

Special to the Post-Telegraph

JEFFERSON CITY Several laws related to public safety go into effect August 28, 2023. A synopsis of sections related to public safety follows:

SENATE BILL 28

To read the truly agreed to and finally passed version of Senate Bill 28 in its entirety, follow this link: https://senate. mo.gov/23info/pdf-bill/ tat/SB28.pdf.

PATROL RECORDS

(Section 43.253 RSMo)

This bill allows for the dissemination of basic crash reports via an automated system while retaining the corresponding funding to support the automated system. Citizens will be able to electronically submit, pay, and receive the requested report via an electronic device. This workflow will greatly increase efficiency and decrease turnaround time to receive basic crash reports.

MISSOURI RAP BACK PROGRAM (Sections

43.539 & 43.540 RSMo)

Under current law, an entity participating in the Missouri Rap Back Program may request a person's updated criminal history record if the person has previously had a Missouri and national criminal record review within the previous six years. This act repeals the six-year requirement.

SENATE BILL 138 LOG TRUCK REQUIREMENTS

To read the truly agreed to and finally passed version of Senate Bill 138 in its entirety, follow this link: https://senate. mo.gov/23info/pdf-bill/ tat/SB138.pdf.

This act modifies the requirements of log trucks

to have a total weight of up to 109,600 pounds, instead of 105,000 pounds.

(Section 304.180 RSMo)

SENATE BILL 167

MEDICAL EXAMINER’S CERTIFICATE

To read the truly agreed to and finally passed version of Senate Bill 167 in its entirety, follow this link: https://senate. mo.gov/23info/pdf-bill/ tat/SB167.pdf.

This bill provides that medical examiner's certificates for commercial driver's licenses or instruction permits may be provided to the state by mail, fax, or email, in addition to the means currently available.

SENATE BILL 186

To read the truly agreed to and finally passed version of Senate Bill 186 in its entirety, follow this link: https://senate. mo.gov/23info/pdf-bill/ tat/SB186.pdf.

MISSING CHILDREN (Sections 43.400, 43.401, & 210.795 RSMo)

This act modifies the definition of a “missing child” in the context of law enforcement searches of missing children to include persons under 18 years of age, foster children regardless of age, emancipated minors,

homeless youth, or unaccompanied minors.

Any agency, placement provider, including the Children’s Division, parent, or guardian, with the care and custody of a child who is missing shall file a missing child complaint with the appropriate law enforcement agency within two hours of determining the child to be missing. The law enforcement agency shall immediately submit information on the missing child to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).

The law enforcement agency shall institute a proper investigation and search for the missing child and maintain contact with the agency or placement provider making the complaint. The missing child’s entry shall not be removed from any database or system until the child is found or the case is closed.

OFFENSE OF PROPERTY DAMAGE IN THE FIRST DEGREE (Sections 569.010 & 569.100)

This act adds to the offense of property damage in the first degree if such person knowingly damages, modifies, or destroys a

teller machine or otherwise makes it inoperable. This offense is a Class D felony unless committed for the purpose of executing any scheme or artifice to defraud or obtain any property, the value of which exceeds $750 or the damage to the teller machine exceeds $750, in which case it is a Class C felony. It shall be a Class B felony if committed for the purpose of obtaining the personal financial credentials of another person or if the person has committed a second or subsequent offense of damaging a teller machine.

OFFENSE OF STEALING (Section 570.010 & 570.030 RSMo)

This act adds that the offense of stealing shall be a class C felony if the property stolen is a teller machine or the contents of a teller machine including cash regardless of the value or amount stolen. Additionally, this act adds that the offense of stealing shall be a class E felony if the property stolen is a letter, post card, or package delivered by common carrier.

FIREARMS IN SCHOOLS (Section 571.030 RSMo)

This act provides that

a person who is a school officer commissioned by the school board does not commit the offense of unlawful use of weapons when he or she brings a firearm into a school or on a school bus.

OFFENSE OF INTERFERENCE

WITH TRANSPORTATION OF LIVESTOCK (Section 578.156 RSMo)

Under this act, a person commits the offense of interference with the transportation of livestock if the person knowingly:

(1) Stops or otherwise interferes with a motor vehicle transporting livestock;

(2) Provokes or disturbs livestock when the livestock is confined in a motor vehicle; or

(3) Puts or places a substance on the livestock that affects its health or use.

The offense of interference with the transportation of livestock is

a class E felony for the first offense and a class C felony for any subsequent offense. The defendant may assert an affirmative defense of consent by proving by a preponderance of the evidence that he or she had the consent of the owner of the livestock. Additionally, this act shall not apply to law enforcement officers enforcing the law.

PEACE OFFICER

BASIC TRAINING

(Section 590.040 RSMo)

Under current law, the POST Commission sets a minimum number of basic training hours for licensure for peace officers of no lower than 470 hours and no higher than 600 with certain exceptions as provided in law. This act changes this requirement to be no lower than 600 hours.

See New Missouri laws, Page 7

August 31, 2023 6 • Princeton Post-Telegraph • NEWS
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DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES FOR

PEACE OFFICERS

(Section 590.080 RSMo)

This act adds additional grounds for when the director of the Department of Public Safety shall discipline peace officers. This act provides that any peace officer shall be disciplined who:

• Is unable to perform the function of a peace officer with reasonable competency or reasonable safety;

• Has committed any crime or has been convicted in a criminal prosecution under any state laws, any federal laws, or any laws of another country, regardless if a sentence was imposed;

• Has committed any act that involves moral turpitude or a reckless disregard for the safety of the public;

• Has tested positive for a controlled substance without a valid prescription;

• Is subject to an order suspending or revoking a peace officer license from another state, territory, the federal government, or any peace officer licensing authority; or

• Has committed any act of gross misconduct indicating inability to function as a peace officer.

SENATE BILL 398

To read the truly agreed to and finally passed version of Senate Bill 398 in its entirety, follow this link: https://senate. mo.gov/23info/pdf-bill/ tat/SB398.pdf

OPERATION OF MOTOR VEHICLES WHILE USING ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONDEVICES “ e Hands Free Law” (Sections 304.820 and 304.822 RSMo)

This act repeals the current prohibitions against operation of motor vehicles while using handheld electronic wireless communications devices (Section 304.820 RSMo), as defined by law, and enacts different prohibitions in lieu thereof (Section 304.822 RSMo).

The act creates the "Siddens Bening Hands Free Law," which prohibits a number of uses of electronic communication devices while operating motor vehicles, as detailed in the act. Among other restrictions, opera-

tors of motor vehicles can no longer physically hold or support, with any part of their body, an electronic communication device; write, send, or read any text-based communication; or make a phone call without the use of the hands-free or voice-operated feature or function.

New Missouri laws went into effect on Aug. 28 From Page 6 COLLECTION OF SALES TAX BY MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS (Sections 144.020 and 144.070 RSMo) is act provides that following development of the Department of Revenue's modernized system for vehicle titling and registration, driver licensing, and liens, licensed motor vehicle dealers shall collect and remit to DOR the sales tax due on all motor vehicles the dealer sells.

The act specifies penalties for violations of these provisions, including enhanced penalties for repeat offenders, violations occurring in a work zone when workers are present, violations occurring in a school zone, and violations that are the proximate cause of property damage, personal injury, or death.

Law enforcement officers who stop a noncommercial motor vehicle for a violation of these provisions shall inform the operator of the operator's right to decline a search of their device. No warrant shall be issued to confiscate or access an electronic communication device based on a violation of these provisions unless the violation results in serious injury or death.

Violations of these provisions shall not be used to establish probable cause for any other violation, and the provisions of the act shall be subject

to racial bias reporting as required by law.

This act preempts local regulation of the use of electronic communication devices by the operators of vehicles.

Prior to January 1, 2025, a law enforcement officer who stops a noncommercial motor vehicle for a violation of these provisions shall not issue a citation for the violation, and shall only issue a warning.

No person shall be stopped, inspected, or detained solely for a violation of these provisions. For a detailed list of the restrictions and exceptions to the Siddens Bening Hands Free law, refer to the Senate Bill 398 link above.

Hands-free driving law in effect as of Monday

COLE DUENCKEL Special to the Post-Telegraph

JEFFERSON CITY After two years in a row of more than 1,000 fatalities on Missouri’s roadways, Gov. Mike Parson signed the Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law, prohibiting all drivers from using a handheld electronic communication device while driving, effective Monday, Aug. 28.

Distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes in Missouri. Between 2012 and 2021, there were nearly 200,000 distracted driving-related crashes in Missouri, resulting in at least 801 fatalities. Cell phone use is responsible for far more distracted driving crashes than are being reported, according to a recent report from the National Safety Council.

“We’ve seen a troubling and unacceptable trend of distracted driving crashes in recent years, and sadly, more times than not, someone other than the distracted driver was killed,” said MoDOT State Highway Safety and Traffic Engineer Nicole Hood. “We’re thankful the General Assembly and Gov. Parson recognized the need for a hands-free law in Missouri. We’re hopeful this law will change the safety culture around phone use while driving and save lives.”

When the law took effect Aug. 28, drivers are prohibited from physically holding or supporting a cell phone with any part of their body; manually typing, writing, sending, or reading text-based messages; recording, posting, sending or broadcasting video, including video calls and social media posts; and watching a video or movie.

“The Siddens Bening Hands-Free Law is an important step towards reducing the number and severity of cell phone related distracted driving crashes,” said Capt. John Hotz, director of public information and education for the Missouri State Highway Patrol. “The passage of the law provides law enforcement officers with an additional tool to help stop motorists from being distracted by their cell phones. The Missouri State Highway Patrol will continue to focus on educating the public about the dangers of distracted driving to prevent traffic crashes from occurring.”

NEWS • Princeton Post-Telegraph • 7 August 31, 2023
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Have a “left vs. right” talk about economics

STAN ROBINSON

Special to the Post-Telegraph

KANSAS CITY, Mo. One of the hallmarks of rightwing thinking is touting some author, book, or speech as evidence that the conservative position is the correct one.

Ayn Rand is an author that comes to mind. Her fictional books point out the consequence of progressive thinking and advocates self-interest. Conservative politicians have been known to hand out Rand’s books to staff members as reinforcement for rightwing thinking.

Daniel Defoe, author of the fictional book Robinson Crusoe, tells of human inventiveness, resourcefulness, and perseverance in overcoming great hardship. No one I know would recommend this book as a Navy Seal training manual. The fact that Edgar Rice Burroughs wrote Tarzan of The Apes does not place him on par with David Attenborough regarding jungle life.

I recommend everyone read The Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged by Rand. I would also recommend reading The Jungle by Upton Sinclair, The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck, and The Octopus by Frank Morris. All are fictional books but thought-provoking. Sinclair, Steinbeck, and Morris point out the danger of unregulated commerce and human greed. A small dose of greed is required to send us off to work every day, but anything in excess is harmful.

Ayn Rand points out the peril of government rules, regulations, taxes, and spending. The conservative opinion that self-interest is vital to the success of capitalism has some merit. However, history has seen self-interest evolve into selfishness and a lust for power, resulting in extreme human suffering.

The law of “supply and demand” can be damaged both by excessive generosity as well as greed. Giving away everything you have and joining the ranks of the poor is not a cure for poverty any more than is unlimited self-interest. Oppressive regulation and unattenuated greed can both be found in the world we inhabit. Opposition to either greed or charity does not mean approval of the other.

I have yet to read a book that explained some great social calamity caused by liberal thinking. The “greed is good” mantra is more damaging to humanity than “let’s share” will ever be.

August 31, 2023 8 • Princeton Post-Telegraph • NEWS
on a hot day, a free meal draws a big crowd
Even
PRESTON COLE/Princeton Post-Telegraph Despite the unusually-high heat and humidity, a big crowd turned out for a free ribeye steak lunch Friday, Aug. 25 on the last day of the four-day long grand opening of the new Princeton facility of Farmers Bank of Northern Missouri.
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