County schools honor local veterans with two programs
TERRI KELLY/Princeton Post-Telegraph (Princeton
Mercer County’s schools honored area veterans during special programs last Monday (Nov. 11) on
Princeton High School’s 51st annual Veterans Day program; ABOVE LEFT - Army veteran and Princeton graduate Adam
during Princeton’s program; ABOVE RIGHT - Veterans posed for a photo after Mercer High School’s Veterans Day program.
R-5 board says “no” to daycare, 3 books
Startup, future costs were a factor in the daycare voting PRESTON COLE
Princeton Post-Telegraph
PRINCETON, Mo By separate 5-1 votes, the Princeton R-5 Board of Educcation decided not to move ahead with starting a district-operated daycare center, and to remove three books from a district library despite a committee’s recommendation to keep the books without restrictions.
The actions were taken during the board regular session last Monday night (Nov. 11).
“No” vote on daycare
Two members of the Mercer County Area Development Corporation (MCAD) were present to speak once again to the board about the district opening an all-day, everyday
daycare center.
Lori Porter told the board that one local family has moved to the Eagleville area because the North Harrison R-3 School District (NH) operates a daycare facility.
She noted that MCAD operates Bella Boutique, a donation-based clothing store in Princeton, and they would be willing to give half of their receipts to help fund a daycare.
Princeton Methodist Church has offered the use of its education annex to house a district-based daycare, and Porter noted that smaller grants are available for renovation work that would be needed.
There are other grants available, including a Patterson Family Foundation grant, an annual grant that would pro-
vide a good chunk of money if approved. And, Porter floated the idea of a possible countywide sales tax, possible a quarter-cent, that could help fund a daycare center.
She added that she would be willing to help any way she could to get the project going, but not if the school board didn’t approve a plan.
R-5 Superintendent Jerry Girdner told those in attendance that a former NH superintendent wanted to do away with that district’s daycare program because of the costs. That district, although it wasn’t promoted in that manner, got a property tax levy passed to keep the program operating.
During their discussion, R-5 board members weighed the benefits to the community in
supporting working families compared to the financial risks to the district associated with starting a daycare program.
Girdner said that one of the impacts Senate Bill 727 will soon have on school districts is that starting with the 2025-26 school year, Missouri districts must pay its teachers a minimum of $40,000.
Also in 2025-26, while fulltime teachers that have a master’s degree plus at least 10 years experience in a public school must receive a minimum salary of $33,000, but a minimum for a teacher with a master’s in a teaching field directly related to the teacher’s assignment, with at least 10 years in a public school, will get a minimum of $46,000.
That rate increases to $47,000
in 2026-27 and $48,000 in 2027-28. After that, increases will be tied to inflation over the previous 12 months at no more than a 3% rate.
Girdner also said school districts don’t have to pay non-certified staff the state’s minimum wage, which raises to $13.75 per hour on Jan. 1, 2025 and to $15 on Jan. 1, 2026.
Board members voting to not establish a school-operated daycare were Mitch Reger, Marcie Davis, Blake Boxley, Chet Ellsworth and Ron Parsons. Karla Meinke voted to establish a daycare. Three books removed after challenge
A community member previously challenged the pres-
See R-5 board, Page 3
Bethany man captured after standoff, negotiations
Perkins held for felony statutory rape. Additional charges pending Princeton Post-Telegraph PRINCETON, Mo A man with a listed address of Bethany, Mo., was apprehended last Tuesday (Nov. 12) on a Harrison County felony warrant.
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Spencer said his office received a report about a fugitive wanted on multiple warrants was seen in hiding in western Mercer County. The Mercer County Sheriff’s
Office, along with a number of law enforcement agencies, responded to the location and tried to contact the suspect.
After a brief standoff and negotiations, Jason Wayne Perkins, 46, was taken into custody without incident. He is currently being held in the Harrison County Jail on a Class D felony charge of second degree statutory rape.
According to court documents, Perkins is accused of having sexual intercourse with a confidential victim under
age 17 on or about Jan. 14, 2024 in Harrison County.
During a hearing held on Jan. 13, Perkins requested a public defender. Harrison County Associate Circuit Judge Jay Hemenway scheduled a bond hearing for Wednesday, Nov. 20.
Spencer said that a large amount of stolen property from numerous counties was recovered while the investigation was being conducted, and additional charges are pending.
Agencies assisting with the arrest and investigation included the North Missouri Drug Task Force, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, the Grundy County Sheriff’s Office, the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office, the Trenton Police Department, and the Missouri Department of Conservation.
The investigation is continuing. Anyone with more information is encouraged to contact their local sheriff’s office.
veterans, Adam DeMoss); COURTESY MERCER HIGH SCHOOL (Mercer veterans)
Veterans Day. TOP - Veterans posed for a photo after
DeMoss was the keynote speaker
OBITUARIES
Garry Middleton Cove, Ore.
Garry Dean Middleton, 81, of Cove, Ore., passed away on October 26, 2024 at Grande Ronde Retirement Home. Per his request, there was not a service.
Garry was born in Princeton, Mo., to Lawerence Addison Middleton and Carol Vivian Maxwell on Jan. 24, 1943. He started school in a oneroom schoolhouse and completed high school in Princeton. Garry grew up on a farm, and always had a love for it. He married Laura Ellen Partridge in June 1969 in Princeton. He started working for the Rock Island Railroad in the mid 1960s on a tie gang. When the Rock Island Railroad shut down, he went to work for the Union Pacific Railroad as an officer. He retired from the railroad in 2003. He loved retirement. He loved traveling with his wife, gardening, reading, and playing table games. Garry loved watching a good western, M*A*S*H, and doing Sudoku. He also enjoyed riding quads in the mountains and was crazy about his grandchildren.
Garry is preceded in death by his parents; Jacob Judge (son-in-law), Crystal Hughes (niece), Linda (sister-in-law), and brothers Larry Middleton and Steve Middleton.
Garry is survived by his wife Laura; daughter Tanya Tindol and grandson Jake (Nicole) Tindol; daughter Mona (Charles) Sickles and grandchildren Aimee, Matthew and Annie (Jonathon); daughter Nicole (Chris) Larsen and grandchildren Jordan (Diana) Judge (great grandchild Jacob Judge), Evan Judge, and Grace Judge; son Daniel Middleton and grandsons Jesse Middleton, and Jamie Middleton; brothers Phillip (Shiloa) Middleton, Mark (Teri) Middleton, Doug (Fay) Middleton and sis-
ter Katherine Middleton, and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family of Garry wishes to extend their sincere thanks to his wonderful hospice nurses (Christy) and to all of his caregivers at Grande Ronde Retirement.
Interment was held on Nov. 9, 2024 at the Cove Cemetery in Cove, Ore. Arrangements were handled by Tami's Pine Valley Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Online condolences may be shared at www. tamispinevalleyfuneralhome.com
Diane Marriott Trenton, Mo.
Judith “Diane” Marriott, 70 of Trenton, Mo., (formerly of Ravanna, Mo.) passed away Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024 at Wright Memorial Hospital in Trenton.
She was born July 31, 1954 in Sacramento, Calif., the daughter of Van Arden, Sr. and Dorthy Ruby (Klusman) Sparks. She was a 1972 graduate of Wayne County High School.
Diane was married to Martin Lee Marriott. He preceded her in death. She liked to grow flowers at her home. Diane was talented with sewing and crocheting. She enjoyed reading and watching detective shows on TV. Teaching her grandkids cooking and baking was such a pleasure to her. Diane attended South Evans Christian Church before falling ill. In addition to her husband, Martin, she was also preceded in death by her parents and brother, Van Arden Sparks Jr. Survivors include her children, Jason (Evonne) Coddington, Jill (Brandon) Gannon, Jordan (Laci) Coddington and Joshua (Amy) Coddington; and grandchildren Kayla Kipp (Mason), Kylie Gannon (Isaih Kille), Malachi Coddington,
Makaill Coddington, Jace Coddington, Kenya Exley, Jaedon Young and Jamie Neff.
Diane was cremated under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home of Princeton, Mo. A memorial service and inurnment will be at a later date in Pleasant Ridge Cemetery of Princeton. Memorials may be made to Pleasant Ridge Cemetery in care of Roberson Funeral Home, PO Box 316, Princeton, MO 64673. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.
Karen Trainer Princeton, Mo.
Karen Ann Trainer, 81, of Princeton, Mo., passed away Friday, Nov. 8, 2024 at a Kansas City, Mo., hospice.
Karen was born Jan. 16, 1943 in Woodstock, Ill., the daughter of Lawrence Freedom and Margaret (Schmitt) Rudolph.
She was a 1961 graduate of Richmond High School in Richmond, Ill..
On April 29, 2017, she married Russell N. Trainer at Princeton First Christian Church. He preceded her in death on Jan. 30, 2024.
Karen worked as a receptionist for 30 years before retiring.
In addition to her husband, Russell, she was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters and two brothers.
Survivors include her son, James Scott (Robyn) Stubner; daughters Windy Sue Lutz (Dave Tahney), Heidi (Ken) Koontz and Jill Christine Ales; 10 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and a sister, Edna Kennedy.
Karen has been cremated under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home of Princeton. There are no services scheduled, and inurnment will be at a later date in Prairie Ridge Cemetery of Princeton.
Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.
Carol Branam Princeton, Mo.
Carol Lee Harper Branam, 89, of Princeton, Mo., passed away Saturday, Nov. 9, 2024 at a Liberty, Mo., hospital.
She was born to John Clifton Harper and Velma Irene (Baden) Harper in Harlingen Texas. Velma was originally from Lake City, Iowa and John Clifton was from Edinburg, Texas. They are buried in Sunset Memorial Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas.
Carol Lee became a Christian at an early age and lived in accordance to her strong faith in Jesus.
She graduated from high school in San Antonio. She wanted to be a nurse, but her father sent her to Stephens College, a finishing school in Columbia, Mo.
While in Columbia, she met the love of her life, Paul Edward Branam, at a student group church party in the fall of 1953. They were married on Oct. 16, 1954 in Austin, Texas and celebrated 70 years of marriage on Oct. 16, 2024.
Carol Lee and Paul spent two years in Fulda, Germany (where daughter, Susan, was born) where Paul was serving in the military. Their daughter, Mary Katherine (Kathy) was born in Shreveport, La.
In 1966, Carol Lee, Paul, Susan and Kathy moved to Paul’s family
farm near Princeton.
As the daughters became young adults, Carol Lee decided to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming a nurse. She graduated from nursing school at NCMC in Trenton, Mo., in 1980, as valedictorian. She worked as an RN and later taught nursing at NCMC.
Carol Lee played the piano and organ at church. She was an artist and painter and she enjoyed crafting items that her family will always treasure. While raising her daughters, she was a Girl Scout leader, led music at Vacation Bible School, taught kindergarten, and enjoyed participating in many clubs. She had a Mary Kay business and loved meeting new people, making good friends wherever she was. She loved bright colors and sparkles and always wore a smile. She gathered friends and made them family.
Carol Lee was very proud of her Texas heritage. She would say, “I live in Missouri, but I’m from Texas!” Her grandchildren and many others lovingly called her “Your Highness”; she was truly the queen of her family. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Jack Harper; and an infant daughter.
Carol Lee will be lovingly remembered by her husband Paul, of the home, daughters, Susan Lynn Branam Hart (Greg) and Mary Katherine Branam Heim (Bob) of Weston, Mo.; grandsons Lawton Paul Huffman and Reed Pat-
rick Heim (Michelle); granddaughter, Madeline Hart; great-grandson, Lucas James Christal; and great-granddaughter, Violet Penelope Heim.
The service held Nov. 16, 2024 was a celebration of a life lived well and intended to glorify her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her funeral service was held Saturday, Nov. 16 at Newtown Christian Church in Newtown, Mo., under the direction of Roberson Funeral Home of Princeton. Burial followed in Princeton, Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Newtown Christian Church in care of Roberson Funeral Home, PO Box 316, Princeton, MO 64673. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.
LAND TRANSFERS
Friday, Nov. 8
• Gerald D. Sharkey et ux to Carl Wunderlich.
• Mark DeHeer et al to Ronald Stewart.
• Richard Snapp, trustee, to Jenkins Land & Cattle Co.
• Lake Marie Property Owners Association to Anthony Poch. Tuesday, Nov. 12
• Billie L. Breckenridge to Chance Breckenridge. Thursday, Nov. 14
• Central Peaks Investments LLC 228 to Roman Miroshnik.
• Brian K. Crabtree to Aaron Borntreger.
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Mercer board discusses climate, cuts bus route during latest meeting
District now runs two routes. Hall discusses potential impact of higher minimum wage, legalized sports betting PRESTON COLE
Princeton Post-Telegraph
MERCER, Mo The Mercer school board had what can be best described as an uneventful meeting last Monday night (Nov. 11).
The evening began with the approval of the consent agenda, which consisted of paying bills, finance reports, the monthly boys/girls basketball report, and reports about the after school, guidance, nurse, and transportation departments.
Superintendent Wade Hall and district nurse Kelly Cowan looked at that report, but they don’t know what a line on a graph in the last report is about. Hall also said the district’s water rates have taken a significant increase.
The consent agenda, along with every oth-
er action item, was approved on an unanimous 7-0 vote.
Under the heading of old business, Hall gave the board an update on the district’s Comprehensive School Improvement Plan, commonly known as CSIP.
Under climate and culture, Hall reported that nearly 83% of the staff believes the district has a positive culture and climate. He said survey answers from parents are being analyzed, and that because of technical issues, surveys are being redistributed to students.
Under academic achievement, he said “pacing grades” are still in the developmental stage.
Under finances, Hall said there are “a lot” of variables that could have an impact on the 2025-26 budget. He added that the district will be shopping for employee health insurance this year. Finally, under safety and wellness, Hall
said nearly 96% of staff members strongly agree they’re physically safe at work, and just over 78% of staff strongly agree their emotional wellness is high.
New business
• The board performed the ceremonial exercise of setting filing dates for the April 8, 2025 election. The dates, which are set by the secretary of state’s office in accordance with state law, are Dec. 10-31. The school office will be closed during the scheduled Christmas break, and will be open from 3-5 p.m. on New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31).
The seats held by current board president Teri Noe and secretary/treasurer Kailer Stevenson are up for reelection.
• The district has downsized its original 2024-25 bus routes from three to two because of personnel availability and cost savings. The board voted to approve the new routes.
• Hall went over the possible impacts from the
Nov. 5 election. Proposition A raised Missouri’s minimum wage on Jan. 1, 2025 to $13.75 per hour and to $15 per hour on Jan. 1, 2026. Hall said that while school districts are exempt from minimum wage requirements, the board needs to think about reworking non-certified pay schedules. Three employees would fall under the new wage rate. Hall will bring proposals to the December board meeting.
Voters also approved sports gambling in Missouri, and Hall noted there is potential for new money to fund schools, but he isn’t planning on a “massive” impact.
• Principal Amy Huse said first-quarter rewards trips were taken in October. The Christmas concert has been scheduled for Dec. 3, and the Christmas carnival will take place Dec. 6. FFA members and students in grades 4-6 will be attending Eagle Days at Mound
R-5 board says “no” to daycare, removes 3 books From Page 1 books were for “recreational reading” only and weren’t part of district curriculum.
ence of three books in a district library for “mature content” issues, all by Sarah J. Mass - A Court of Mist and Fury, A Court of Wings and Ruin, and a Court of Thorns and Roses
Per district policy, a nine-person committee was appointed and reviewed the books. The committee consisted of the building principal, three teachers, a school
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.
board members, and four members of the community, and the committee recommended keeping the books without restrictions. After considerable discussion, the board voted to remove the three books.
Voting to remove the books were Reger, Davis, Meine, Boxley and Ellsworth, while Parsons voted to keep the books. It was noted that the
Board member Nathan Evans was not present for the 90-minute long meeting.
Other items
• Bills were paid and fund transfers were approved. The October cash flow report and a report from school nurse Kim
City on Dec. 6.
• In his report, Hall said the HVAC unit in the competition gym has been repaired, and work on the bathroom renovation behind the kindergarten classroom is continuing.
He said the district is still waiting for the new boiler to be inspected. Kevin McAninch will perform snow removal again this winter. Since the district now has just two bus routes, bus #2
WIC services Thursday, Nov. 21, at office, by appointment. Open lab Friday, Nov. 22, 8-10 a.m., by appointment.
Other items
• Board meeting:
Rardon were approved.
• Girdner announced that the Thanksgiving break will be Nov. 2729. The December board meeting is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 9 at 5:30 p.m.
The filing period will be held Dec. 10-30 for the April 8, 2025 election. Current seats are held by Parsons and Evans.
may be sold as surplus property.
And, he said the district continues to monitor MOSIP rates.
• The board held a closed session that lasted 42 minutes. No actions were taken during the session.
The December meeting was scheduled for Monday, Dec. 9 at 6 p.m.
Editor’s Note: Information for this report was taken from unapproved meeting minutes provided by district bookkeeper Jennifer Lynn Wilson.
Wednesday, Nov. 27, 6-7 p.m.
• Closed Thursday-Friday, Nov. 28-29 for Thanksgiving.
• The department is still offering COVID-19 and flu shots for the 2024-25 season. Regular and high-dose (65+ years) flu vaccines are available. Call the office to schedule an appointment. Available to all 6 months and older regardless of insurance status - state vaccine provided by VFC and 317 programs.
Princeton council nixes request to operate local campground/RV park
MCAD was backing plan for facility in old ballfields area. Health Department head told to bring more details about funding possible walking trail around Derry Sports Complex
PRESTON COLE
Princeton Post-Telegraph
PRINCETON, Mo The Princeton City Council has, for now at least, taken no action on ideas from Mercer County Area Development (MCAD) and the Mercer County Health Department for community and tourist recreation facilities.
John Girdner, Dr. Tammy Hart and Spencer Hart represented the MCAD to present a proposal to turn the old ballfields area into a campground and RV park.
Girdner told the council that an agreement between MCAD and the Arena Association has “fallen through” since the idea was first floated.
MCAD wants to convert the area into a campground/RV park over a two-year period, then turn the facility over to the city to run and maintain.
During previous meetings with the council, MCAD had suggested that it and the Arena Association would operate and maintain the area, and had asked the city assist with cleaning up the ballfields (removing fences, dugouts, light polls and other items), with the use of city equipment and personnel. That work has been finished. Mayor Doug Stark said the top floor of the old concession stand/press box “is rotten” and needs to be taken down, with a new roof placed over the concession area.
A question was asked about the restrooms at the ballfields site. City Superintendent Greg Good-
MERCER CO. FOOD PANTRY
Located in the basement of Princeton 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.
SUBSCRIBE to the Princeton Post-Telegraph today!
knight said state regulations won’t allow a septic system to be placed there since it’s in a flood plain; the current system uses a holding tank that has to be pumped out.
There have been comparisons made between this proposed project and the Moore-Gosch Park north of nearby Lineville, Iowa. Girdner said he’s found out that the city of Lineville works with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) on park issues, and Lineville has a board to oversee operations.
Moore-Gosch is a “modern” camping area, with electricity and running water, among other amenities. That won’t work for the proposed MCAD project due to Missouri DNR rules that allow for just “primitive” camping areas such as Lake Paho west of Princeton.
For the new proposal, the council told the MCAD they should contact the Mercer County Fair Board to see if they would partner with them on the project. The Fair Board originally expressed interest in the project.
On another MCAD project, the representatives said they’re still working on a grant to install “wayfinding signs” inside the city limits. When asked, Goodknight said the city would help them install the signs.
MCHD walking trail
Gina Finney, administrator of the Mercer County Health Department, asked for approval to begin the application project for a grant to place a walking trail at the Russ Derry Sports Complex, which is located on cityowned property.
She’s found a grant through the DNR, a “Recreational Trails Grant” of
$250,000 that could fund the project, but as is the case with governmental grants, there’s a catch - a match would be required. In this case, the grant requires a 20% match, or $50,000.
Councilwoman Karee Cunningham expressed concerns about the match, and asked Finney if the city would be responsible for providing the match. Finney said she couldn’t answer that question.
The council determined that Finney needs to find out more information about the 20% match, and return to a council meeting with her findings.
Other items
• The council formally approved a proposal for playground equipment at the Russ Derry Sports Complex.
The total cost of the equipment is $52,749. Money is coming from a $25,000 grant from MCAD and $40,000 in county recreation tax funds.
The city had to be the applicant for the recreation tax money since it owns the site of the sports complex.
• Stark asked about progress on the city’s water/wastewater project. New valves were installed late Thursday night/early Friday morning (Nov. 1415). All new mains are in the ground, and all city water users have had new meters installed. Five one-inch meters are on order and will be installed next summer (2005).
The next meeting was scheduled for Monday, Dec. 9 at 6 p.m. at City Hall.
Editor’s note: Information for this report came from unapproved meeting minutes provided by Deputy City Clerk Jami McLain. Post-Telegraph editor Preston Cole attended the meeting.
CAINSVILLE
MELANIE CHANEY
Christopher Seymour of Krugerville, Texas, and his brother-in-law, Wes Carver of Denton, Texas had lunch, with Victor and Dixie Seymour on Monday.
Recently, Barbara (Cain) Long, Cainsville class of 1957, now living in Spearfish, S.D., and Betty (Cain) Craig, Cainsville class of 1952 and now living in Lee’s Summit, made a memory trip back to Cainsville to reminisce about all the buildings that used to be on the square when they were growing up. There were three grocery stores, three clothing stores, a movie theater, a drug store, and three restaurants. Barbara spotted Doctor Ellsworth’s sign in the building window, which reminded her of cleaning the doctor’s office when she was in high school. Thier visit triggered so many memories about the church,
cemetery, school, and old acquaintances. During Barbara's last year of high school she lived where Herman and Melanie Chaney currently reside. It’s that time of year again. Ronnie and Sherri Barton, owners of the Cozy Cabin in Cainsville, will have cherry mash, peanut clusters, peanut brittle, cream drops, orange slices, and fruit slices available at their home, Monday, through Saturday. They will deliver free within the city limits and the candy will be available starting Nov. 23 in the Cozy Cabin during the open house! They will also be offering Christmas and rustic decor, so please stop by have some cookies and hot apple cider. Their regular business hours will be every Saturday morning through Dec. 21 from 9 a.m.-noon. The address is 1108 Union Street.
Lakelynn and Lilah Chaney stayed the night with their grandparents Herman and Melanie
Chaney on Nov. 15. The junior high basketball teams are playing in the Winston Tournament the week of Nov. 18. There is a PTO meeting at 6 p.m. on Nov. 21; if anyone is interested in helping out please give the school a call. There are varsity basketball games at Ridgeway on Monday, Nov. 25, and the first varsity basketball game in Cainsville will be boys-only on Nov. 26. Thanksgiving break begins Nov. 27 with school resuming Monday, Dec. 2.
David Johnson, who studies old narrow gauge railroads, stopped at City Hall with information about the railroad that went through Cainsville. He sent some photos and information to the Community Betterment. The information concerned the Des Moines, Osceola, and Southern which later became the Des Moines and Kansas City. These See Cainsville, Page 6
Lineville council talks about variety of items
PRESTON COLE
Princeton Post-Telegraph
LINEVILLE, Iowa Actions taken by the four members of the Lineville City Council during its meeting last Monday night (Nov. 11):
• Councilman Tom Shriver ran the meeting as mayor pro-tem in the absence Mayor Jack Shields.
• Enos Swartzentruber told the council he’d bought a lot on Washington Street that borders an unopened city street (Chestnut Street), and asked if the council would be willing to sell that street.
A utility map shows that Chestnut Street has a gas main in it, but the plat map shows the street further north on the map without utilities. The council suggested Swartzentruber to go to the Wayne County assessor to get the right location of the street before any real action can be taken.
• City Clerk Brandy Shriver tried to call Lee Holtmyer, who had said he couldn’t attend the meeting but wanted to address the council. There was no answer.
• Shrinkage in the Water Department was reported at 20.31%.
• Shriver asked council members if they’d decided whether they wanted to lower their PILOT transfer from garbage, or not. They decided not to reduce the PILOT at this time.
• Street Department: Shriver said Jeffrey Landrum had asked permission to gravel the unopened city street between his lot and the lot owned by J&M Repair, and put it to use. The council unanimously denied the request, saying until and unless both parties come to a meeting and agree on terms of use.
• Gas Department: Shriver told the council that USDI told her the city needs a new odorizer that would cost about $30,000. She reminded members they had budgeted $50,000 for a different gas project and if they wanted to, they could use those funds to use for a new odorizer instead since USDI had told her it should be prioritized over the other project. The council unanimously voted to use the funds to be used for the new odorizer.
• Shriver was instructed to contact city attorney Alan Wilson to send an eviction notice to the United States Postal Service.
• Shriver said the coun-
cil needs to hire a new cleaning person for the Community Building. She was told to contact a possible cleaner.
• Shriver tried to call Holtmyer again, and he answered and said there’s a retaining wall around a city drain pipe on his daughter’s property at 405 Main Street that needs to be redone. He said he’d like to rebuild the wall with concrete, blocks or rocks, but if doing that and ensure good drainage, the wall would probably extend into a city alley next to the drain pipe. He asked permission from the council before he takes any action, and the council unanimously granted permission to build the wall even if it extends one to three feet into the alley.
• At the start of the meeting, City Clerk Shriver presented her monthly fund balance report for October. Income was $42,690.57 in governmental funds and 17,876.14 in utility funds. Expenses were $28,509.78 in governmental funds and $19,232.71 in utility funds. There was also the monthly transfer of a total of $1,425 in three utility funds.
Editor’s note: Information for this report was taken from unapproved meeting minutes provided by City Clerk Brandy Shriver. All votes were unanimous, except where noted.
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, Nov. 25: scrambled eggs, toast.
Tuesday, Nov. 26: pancakes, sausage.
Wednesday, Nov. 27: no school.
Thursday, Nov. 28: no school.
Friday, Nov. 29: no school.
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, Nov. 25: pizza or catfish strips, buttered corn, romaine salad; no salad bar.
Tuesday, Nov. 26: mandarin orange chicken or parmesan chicken bites, egg roll, brown
rice; no salad bar.
Wednesday, Nov. 27: no school.
Thursday, Nov. 28: no school.
Friday, Nov. 29: no school.
MERCER
Breakfast is served with orange juice and white or chocolate milk. Cereal is an optional entree.
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, Nov. 25: a) McRib; b) chicken sandwich; baked chips.
Tuesday, Nov. 26: a) chicken and noodles; b) chicken sandwich; mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, roll; no salad bar.
Wednesday, Nov. 27: no school.
Thursday, Nov. 28: no school.
Friday, Nov. 29: a) no school.
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.
Wednesday, Nov. 27: no school. Thursday, Nov. 28: no school.
Friday, Nov. 29: no school.
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in the Princeton Post-Telegraph TODAY!
COMMISSION
MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION
Report taken from minutes of meetings of the Mercer County Commission. All votes are unanimous unless otherwise noted. Tursday, Nov. 12
• County Clerk Judy Hamilton appointed Cheston Easter to serve as acting presiding commissioner in the absence of Jerry Allen.
• Minutes of the Nov. 4 meeting were approved.
• Bills were approved and paid.
• Hamilton told commissioners of write-ins for the office of sheriff. No write-ins met candidate qualifications under Section 57.010, RSMo. Commissioners voted to reappoint Jeff Spencer as Mercer County sheriff.
• Hamilton presented a certificate of election results for the Nov. 5 general election for the proposition commissioners placed on the ballot to impose a 1% sales tax to provide central dispatching of fire protection, law enforcement and emergency ambulance services, including emergency telephone services, and other emergency ser-
See Historic, Page 6
STORAGE UNITS
For Rent - Storage unit. Elm Street Storage, Princeton. 660-748-3619. 8-1-ufnb
GUNS & AMMO
WOOD’S GUN SHOP
5 Miles South of Ravanna 660-748-5795
9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday 1-4-2024-ufn
Boyer Land Company LLC
Aaron Franklin, Sales Agent Princeton, MO 64673 660-748-6314
YOUR REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST! 1-4-2024ufn SERVICES
COMMISSION
MERCER COUNTY
COMMISSION
Report taken from minutes of meetings of the Mercer County Commission.
All votes are unanimous unless otherwise noted. Monday, Nov. 4
• Minutes of the Oct. 28 meeting were approved.
• Sheriff Jeff Spencer spoke to commissioners.
• Bills were approved and paid.
• Time sheets and the Oct. 31 payroll were approved.
Nov. 30, 2027. Commissioner Cheston Easter abstained because he is a relative to Ila Rae Easter.
Commission From Page 5
vices. The issue passed 918-788.
• Commissioners met with interested parties about a 911 emergency services board under Section 190.335, RSMo. Commissioners read County Ordinance 1112-2024 to impose a 1% sales tax pursuant to the statute. A roll call vote was recorded.
tric Cooperative Inc. for utilities (money taken from Lindley Township Fund #43); and * $82.60 to the Princeton Post-Telegraph for advertising, and $30.20 to Cardmember Services for vehicle expenses (money taken from Sheriff’s Special Fund #32).
Trever Ratliff. • Circuit Clerk and Recorder Tammy Crouse presented the October uniform disbursement record, receipt and disbursement report, and list of land transfers.
• Commissioners received mileage logs dated June 6-Nov. 7 from Road & Bridge Supervisor Shawn Powell.
For Sale - Big round hay bales. Raymond Donelson, 660-748-3176. 11-14/11-21p
For Sale - 95 large hay bales, plastic twine. $60/bale. 201 bales, net wrapped. $69/ bale. Call 660-292-0139. 11-14/11-21b FARM ITEMS
NOTICE - Hunting and trespassing with dog and/or gun, trapping or fishing on land owned or leased by the undersigned is strictly forbidden. You are hereby warned to keep off these properties. Trespassers will be prosecuted.
No tresspassing for any reason on land that we own or lease. John & Linda Baughman. 9-28-23-52tp
No hunting, fishing or trespassing on property owned, leased or rented by Joe and Victoria Ryan. 4-27-23-52tp
Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on Highland Farms land owned and operated by Dixie Berger, Joe Berger & Steve Berger. 5-16-24-52tp
Absolutely NO TRESPASSING, including but not limited to hunting, fishing, hiking, mushroom hunting and drones on land owned and/ or rented by FRJ Family Farms, LLC. 3-23-23-52tp
Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on land owned by Barbara & LeRoy Hider 10-10-23-52tp
NO HUNTING OR TRESPASSING on any land owned by LAKE MARIE PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION. 7-28-23-52tp
No hunting or trespassing of any kind, including but not limited to use of dogs or drones, on land owned by Diane Houk and Jenny Bomgardner. 9-28-23-52tp
Absolutely NO TRESPASSING, including but not limited to hunting, fishing, hiking, mushroom and drones on land owned and/or rented by KRW5 Trust (Keith or RaeLynn Weaver). 10-5-23-52tb
No hunting or trespassing on any land owned by Bill and Peggy Heck. 5-30-24-52tb
No hunting, trespassing or fishing on property owned, leased or rented by Shirley or Joe Don Pollard. 4-19-24-52tp
Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on Choate property at any time. 3-28-24-52tp
Absolutely no hunting with guns or dogs, fishing, or trespassing on land owned by Berndt Farm and Berndt Twin Lake Inc. 11-10-23-52tpP
No hunting or trespassing on Cox family property - Andy and Donna Cox, and Robert and Tina Cox. 12-3-22-104tpP
No trespassing on property owned by Shandra Morin 4-11-24-52tp
Cainsville
From Page 4
railroads never extended past Cainsville. Don’t forget about the community Thanksgiving service that will be held Friday, Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. at the Christian Church. Thanks for all the news! Please send me some for next week. Early Thanksgiving, guests, upcoming plans? Have a good one!
• Kelli Judd spoke to commissioners about getting a cell phone for the public administrator’s office. They approved the request as they approved a contract under Mercer County.
• Commissioners received the balance of funds from Collector/ Treasurer Susan Moore, verified by County Clerk Judy Hamilton. Hamilton also presented year-todate budget revenues and expenditure reports for October.
• Commissioners received the balance of current taxes, dated Oct. 31, from Moore as verified by Hamilton.
• Spencer presented the October motor equipment expense reports for himself and Deputy Randy Francis.
• Commissioners received the October funds collected report from Assessor Dana Widner.
• At the board’s request, commissioners voted 2-0 to reappoint Bill Goodin, Ila Rae Easter and Mike Tipton to three-year terms on the Recreation Board, from Dec. 1, 2024 through
• Commissioners received a letter from the Somerset Township clerk informing them that Trustee Kevin Stiles has moved to Marion Township and needs to resign as trustee. They wanted commissioners to appoint board member Michael Noe to the trustee position, and to appoint Jason Stark as a board member. Commissioners voted to approve the request.
• Commissioners authorized Moore to pay the following:
* $95.39 to GRM Networks for the phone bill in the treasurer’s office (money taken from Treasurer’s Maintenance Fund #34);
* $40.56 to General Revenue for the Xerox lease (money taken from Recorder’s Special Fund #06);
* $40 to Lucky Dog Embroidery for uniform expenses, and $60 to Missouri Sheriffs United for CCW permits (money taken from Sheriff’s Revolving Fund #35); and
* $150 to Cardmember Services (money taken from Sheriff’s Special Fund #32).
• Commissioners delivered voting machines to polling locations at 10 a.m.
ADVERTISE in, and SUBSCRIBE to the Princeton Post-Telegraph
Commissioners are responsible for the initial appointment of a 911 dispatch services board under the statute. A motion and second were made to appoint Tony Johnson, representing the fire district; Doug Priest, representing the Ambulance District; Spencer, representating the Sheriff’s Office; Allen, representing Mercer County emergency management services; and three at-large members - Gene Anderson, Ben Fisher and Tracy Klein.
• First District Commissioner Easter signed Progress Invoice #9 for Bridge 25300041 BRO-B065 (41) in the amount of $1,246.45; Progress Invoice #7 from Bridge 07900221 BRO-R065 (001) in the amount of $27,251.41; and Progress Invoice #7 for Bridge 18700021 BRO-R065 (002) in the amount of $28,029.87, all for engineering services.
• Commissioners and Hamilton signed a certified copy of order authorizing Collector/Treasurer Susan Moore to pay the following:
* $48 to Grundy Elec-
• Commissioners received the October motor equipment expense report from Spencer for the 2017 Chevy Tahoe assigned to Deputies Jordan Boswell and
• The county received October sales tax and use tax reports from the Missouri Department of Revenue for the county’s use as of Nov. 7.
The bird flew the coop Tweedy, a cockatiel belonging to Safiya Hashimi in Buena Park, Calif., flew the coop and got stuck in a tree. Safiya’s brother didn’t hesitate to climb the tree to rescue the lost bird but he found himself stuck in the tree along with the bird. An Orange County Fire Authority team was called in, and firefighter Shane Allan wasted no time in climbing his ladder to reach the boy and the bird. As the Fire Authority put it, Allan “proved that saving two birds with one ladder isn't just a figure of speech.”
Baby Nibi
They found baby Nibi on the side of a road but her rescuers couldn’t find her parents and so they wanted to keep her and raise as their own. It took a while but finally, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey intervened and ruled that Newhouse Wildlife Rescues could take charge of the two-year-old baby beaver, noting that “Nibi has captured the hearts of many of our residents, mine included and we’re excited to share that we have issued a permit for Nibi to remain in Newhouse’s care, continuing to educate the public about this important species.”
DIVISION I
CIRCUIT COURT
Judge Steve Hudson 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. Defendants in criminal cases were represented by counsel unless otherwise noted.
Wednesday, Nov. 13
• State vs. Joseph V. Bellow, Mercer: Bellow appeared for a trial setting on two Class D felony charges of stealing $750 or more. A twoday jury trial was set for June 24-25, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. each day. A pre-trial conference was set for May 14, 2025 at 9 a.m.
• State vs. William Joseph Miller, Newtown: Miller appeared arraignment on a Class D felony charge of unlawful possession of a firearm. He waived arraignment and entered a plea of guilty. He was sentenced to five years in the Department of Corrections. Execution of sentence was suspended, and he was placed on probation. He was ordered to perform 40 hours of community service within six months, make a $300 donation to the county law enforcement restitution fund, and pay court costs within three months. Miller was also ordered to enter drug and alcohol evaluation within 30 days and follow its recommendations.
• State vs. Jacklyn S. Ormsby, Princeton: Ormsby appeared in custody for a probation violation hearing involving her 2022 convictions on three counts Class D felony possession of a controlled substance except 35 grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid, Class A misdemeanor second degree tampering with a motor vehicle, and Class
D misdemeanor unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. She denied violating conditions of her probation and requested a continuance. Cause continued to Dec. 11 at 9 a.m. Ormsby was remanded to custody.
• State vs. Michael Penrod, Ottumwa, Iowa: Penrod failed to appear for a motion to revoke and suspend his probation for his 2021 convictions for Class D felony first degree tampering with a motor vehicle, Class B misdemeanor driving while intoxicated, Class D misdemeanor operate vehicle on highway without a valid license (first offense), and Class A misdemeanor failure to drive on right half of roadway when roadway was of sufficient width, resulting in an accident.
On April 11, 2024, Penrod was placed on probation on the felony charge. On Sept. 11, he was ordered to pay $550 per month in restitution beginning Oct. 1. As of Oct. 15, no payment had been received. At the state’s request, a capias warrant for Penrod’s arrest was ordered issued. Bond was set at $25,000 cash only. His probation was suspended until further order of the court.
Princeton R-5 Elementary School recently held its October awards assembly. During the assembly, the following students were recognized as being Students of the Month. From left: Grace Reger, kindgarten; Bowen Ellsworth, first grade; Brycen Tatum, second grade; Kynison Peterson, third grade; Halle Allen, fourth grade; Remington Mathews, fifth grade; and Emmalyn Terabelian, sixth grade.
JH BASKETBALL SCORES
PRINCETON GIRLS
A: Princeton 52, Pattonsburg 12 - Mary Jane Renfron 13, Josie Estes 8, Aniston Power 8 Princeton 25, South Harrison 15 Power 13 Princeton 43, Trenton 5 - Renfro 14, Estes 13, Power 10 B: Princeton 4, Pattonsburg 0 South Harrison 16, Princeton 12 Princeton 13, Trenton 1
PRINCETON BOYS
A: Gallatin 39, Princeton 32 - Travyn
Shields 16, Brodie Ellsworth 11 Princeton 29, North Harrison 21
Shields 14, Ellsworth 12 Worth County 53, Princeton 18 Shields 12 Princeton 36, Pattonsburg 28 Ellsworth 17, Shields 8 South Harrison 44, Princeton 22
Shields 15
Trenton 40, Princeton 33 - Shields 20
MERCER GIRLS
Mercer Tournament Mercer 47, East Harrison 13 - Lanie Rogers 15, Cayley Barker 10
Mercer 38, Gilman City 10 - Rogers 14, Barker 11, Emma Stark 9
Mercer won the championship
MERCER BOYS
Mercer Tournament
Gilman City 41, Mercer 26 - Tucker Noe 6, Darrin Hobbs, Trip Wilson, Jaxson VanderMeulen 4 each
Mercer 36, East Harrison 22 - Wilson 15
Mercer 32, North Harrison 14 - Wilson 13, Chance Davis 9, Hobbs 7
Mercer won the 5th-place game
Twins in synchrony
JAMBOREE SCHEDULES
GILMAN CITY JAMBOREE
Friday, Nov. 22 (Doubleheaders)
5 p.m. - Maysville vs. Gilman City
6:15 - Princeton vs. Maysville
7:30 - Gilman City vs. Princeton
MERCER JAMBOREE
Saturday, Nov. 23
9 a.m. - Mercer girls vs. Albany 9:30 - Mercer boys vs. Albany 10 - Albany girls vs Seymour (IA)
10:30 - Albany boys vs. Seymour 11 - Mercer girls vs. Seymour 11:30 - Mercer boys vs. Seymour
Fourteen-year-old Swiss twins Naemi and Alena Stump earned not one, but two Guinness World Records recently. They set new records for the most synchronized tricks on inline skates in 30 seconds and the most synchronized tricks on inline skates in one minute. How did they do it? They say “You should know each other so well that you know what the other person is doing without having to communicate. The one who is better at the trick adapts to the other.”
Princeton R-5 Elementary School recently held its October awards assembly. During the assembly the following students were recognized as being Character Kids of the Month. October's Character Trait was “Self Control: Having control over one's actions, words, and emotions.” This award was sponsored by the Mercer County Chapter of the Missouri Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association. Students receiving the award, from left: Everly Stark, kindergarten; Christine Pugh, first grade; Everly Smith, second grade; Taylor McFee, third grade; Flynn Landis, fourth grade; Remington Mathews, fifth grade; and Ursula Morales, sixth grade.
PHOTOS COURTESY PRINCETON R-5 ELEMENTARY
PRINCETON FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH
Worship: Sunday, 10:45 a.m.
Bible Study: Wednesday 6:30-7:30 p.m. Kid’s Power: Third Wednesday of Each Month, 5:30-7:30 a.m.
ALL-STATE SOFTBALL Tigers’ Henke on C1 second team for second time
Addy’s amazing, again
Tiger senior tabbed as one of the state’s elite smallschool softball players
PRESTON COLE
Princeton Post-Telegraph
PRINCETON, Mo Princeton senior Addilyn Henke has ended her softball career with one of the state’s highest individual honors.
Henke - known to family, friends, teachers and others as Addy - has been named to the Missouri High School Fastpitch Coaches Association to the group’s Class 1 all-state second team infielder.
It’s the second time Henke has been named to the Class 1 unit; she was also named to the all-state second team infield as a sophomore in 2022.
Henke was clearly the offensive leader for the 2024 Tigers,
who won the program’s 15th district title and won at least 20 games (21-12) for just the third time in the program’s 39-season history. She posted a .419 batting average (44 hits in 105 at-bats) with 41 runs scored, six triples, six home runs, 33 RBI, and 19 extra-base hits, all team-leading numbers. She also had a .508 on-base percentage (OBP), a .771 slugging percentage (SLG) and a preposterous 1.270 on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS). Her seven doubles tied sophomore Kaydence Stockman for the team lead.
Henke also finished second in stolen bases, swiping 18 bags in 20 attempts; sophomore Riley Clark led the Tigers with 21 steals in 24 attempts
Henke put up some gaudy statistics during her four-year career to place the multi-positional athlete (she played second base, shortstop and third base) among the elite players for one of the state’s upper echelon small-school softball programs. In 109 games, she hit .390 (138-354) with 61 extra-base hits - 18 doubles, 22 triples and a program-record 21 home runs), 127 runs scored and 111 RBI. She struckout just 42 times and 403 plate appearances with a .471 OBP a .771 SLG and a 1.222 OPS. She was also 44-of-49 in stolen bases for a program that doesn’t pad a baserunner’s stolen base count by giving her a stolen base without a throw from the catcher, which is allowed under high school
Mercer JH girls win own tournament, second tourney of season
scoring rules.
Henke recently signed a letter of intent to play basketball at North Central Missouri
lege in Trenton, thus continuing her academic and academic careers.
LEFT: The Mercer girls junior high girls basketball team posed last Thursday night (Nov. 14) after winning the Mercer Tournament, the team’s second such title in two weeks after it won the Tri-County Tournament on Nov. 9. The girls had a 10-1 record going into their final three games of the season this week. Team members, from left: FRONT - Kassidy Shively, Zoe Fisher, Lanie Rogers, Paisley Wells, and Emma Stark; BACK - coach Jeff Wyatt, managerss Kimberlynn Swan, Rylee Vandermuellen and Tikka Perkins, players Cayley Barker, Paige Houk, and Avery Stark, a rather large mascot, and assistant coach Sherri Barker.
TERRI KELLY/Princeton Post-Telegraph
Addilyn Henke powered a Grundy County pitch over the outfield fence at Galt on Oct. 8 during Princeton’s victory over the Panthers. The Tiger senior has been named to the Class 1 all-state second team for the second time during her fouryear career.
