02-22-2024 Post Telegraph

Eight Tiger softball players recognized for academics

Named to Class 1 Academic All-State team. Team also cited for work in classroom

PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

Eight members of the Princeton High School softball team have been named to the Class 1 Academic All-State team, it was announced last week.

Tigers who qualified for the honor were seniors Hannah Meighen, Emma Walkup, Grace Kelly and Faith Siemer;

juniors Madi Tipton and Addilyn Henke; sophomore Celia Stiles; and freshman Evan Boxley.

All eight girls maintained an unweighted grade point of at least 3.7 on a 4.0 scale during the first semester of the 202324 academic year.

As a team, the Tigers also received Academic All-State recognition. The 14-player unit had a 3.77 GPA, barely missing the top 10 among Class 1

schools; they needed a 3.8 GPA for top 10 status.

Teams with a combined GPA of at least 3.3 qualify for Academic All-State recognition.

The Academic All-State process is sponsored by the Missouri High School Fastpitch Coaches Association. A team’s head coach must be a member of the association in order for their players to be nominated, then recognized.

Chamber holds ribbon cutting for new eatery

Mercer HS Homecoming royalty

COURTESY PRINCETON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Princeton Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony Friday for Juju’s Wingz & Things, which operates out of the kitchen at the Cow Palace just north of the Princeton square. Judah Payton handled the ceremonial scissors.

Contract extensions given to two Princeton administrators

Superintendent, elementary principal get one year added to contracts. Calendar for the 2024-25 term approved

PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON, Mo Two of the

Princeton R-5 School District’s three administrators received one-year contract extensions, during the R-5 Board of Education’s meeting last Monday night (Feb. 12).

The third administrator is retiring at the end of the school year.

During a closed session, Superintendent Jerry Girdner’s contract was extended through

the 2026-27 school year. It keeps him on a three-year contract.

Elementary Principal Wes Guilkey’s contract was extended through the 2025-26 school year, keeping him on a twoyear contract.

Salaries for both men will be determined during the board’s June meeting, based on the board’s evaluation of the upcoming budget, taking into account evaluation of all staff salaries.

The actions were announced in a media release issued Wednesday afternoon (Feb. 14).

Included in the media release was an announcement that high school Principal Dana Seymour had submitted her retirement, effective at the end of the school year.

During the open session, the board approved a bid from Maryville Glass & Lock ($46,297) for new entry doors and access control hardware. Also approved was a proposal from GRM Networks ($26,627) to integrate building telephones with access control software for the main entry doors.

Funds to pay for the work

See R-5 calendar, Page 7

These members of the Princeton High School softball team have been named to the Class 1 Academic All-State team.

From left: FRONT - Celia Stiles, Faith Siemer and Addilyn Henke; BACK - Evan Boxley, Hannah Meighen, Grace Kelly, Emma Walkup and Madi Tipton. The Tigers also received Academic All-State Team recognition.

BETTY WILLIS/Special to the Post-Telegraph

Tyler Meinecke (left) and Maddi Fisher were named as Mercer High School’s 2024 Homecoming royalty Friday night.

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LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MERCER COUNTY, MISSOURI PROBATE DIVISION In the Estate of NORMAN R. BROUSSARD, Deceased

Estate No. 24AI-PR0002 NOTICE OF LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION GRANTED (Independent Administration - Non-Resident Fiduciary) TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF NORMAN R. BROUSSARD, Decedent:

On February 2, 2024, the following individual was appointed the personal represetative of the estate of NORMAN R. BROUSSARD, decedent, by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Mercer County, Missouri. The business of the personal representative is: ALLAN BROUSSARD, 9614 S. 183rd Ave., Omaha NE 68136.

The personal representative’s attorney’s name, business address and phone number is: ROBERT COWHERD, 903 JACKSON ST., PO BOX 228, CHILLICOTHE, MO 64601, (660) 646-0627.

The non-resident peronal representative’s designated agent’s name, address and phone number is: ROBERT COWHERD, 903 JACKSON ST., PO BOX 228, CHILLICOTHE, MO 64601, (660) 646-0627.

All creditors of said decedent are notified to file claims in the Probate Division of this Court within six months from the date of the first publication of this Notice or if a copy of this Notice was mailed to, or served upon, such creditor by the personal representative, then within two months from the date it was mailed or served, whichever is later, or be forever barred to the fullest extent permissible by law. Such six-month period and such two-month period do not extend the limitation period that would bar claims one year after the decedent’s death, as provided in Section 473.444, RSMo, or any other appicable limitation periods. Nothing in Section 473.033, RSMo, shall be construed to bar any action against a defendent’s liability insurance carrier through a defendant ad litem pursuant to Section 537.021, RSMo.

Date of the decedent’s death: 11-08-2023.

Date of first publication: 02-15-2024.

Julie Humphrey Deputy Clerk

Receipt of this notice by mail should not be construed by the recipient to indicate that the recipient necessarily has a beneficial interest in the Estate. The nature and extent of any person’s interest, if any, can be determined from the files and records of this Estate in the Probate Division of the Circuit Couri of Mercer County, Missouri.

DATES OF PUBLICATION

February 15, 2024

February 22, 2024

February 29, 2024

March 7, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MERCER COUNTY, MISSOURI

PROBATE DIVISION

In the Estate of Melody Ann Bartsch, Deceased

Estate No. 23AI-PR00024

Notice of Grant of Letters of Administration With Will Annexed (Supervised Administration)

To All Persons Interested in the Estate of Melody Ann Bartsch, Decedent:

On January 30, 2024, the last will of the decedent having been admitted to probate, Kelli Judd, Mercer County Public Administrator, was appointed the personal representative of the estate of Melody Ann Bartsch, decedent, by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Mercer County, Missouri. The personal representative’s business address and phone number is: 802 E. Main, Princeton, MO 64673, (660) 7483411.

The personal representative’s attorney’s name, business address and phone number is: Trentis E. Miller, 903 Jackson St., P.O. Box 228, Chillicothe, MO 64601; (660) 6460627.

All creditors of said decedent are notified to file claims within six months from the date of the first publication of this notice or if a copy of this notice was mailed to, or served upon, such creditor by the personal representative, then within two months from the date it was mailed or served, whichever is later, or be forever barred to the fullest extent permissible by law. Such sixmonth period and such two-month period do not extend the limitation period that would bar claims one year after the decedent’s death, as provided in Section 473.444, RSMo, or any other appicable limitation periods. Nothing in Section 473.033, RSMo, shall be construed to bar any action against a defendent’s liability insurance carrier through a defendant ad litem pursuant to Section 537.021, RSMo.

Date of the decedent’s

death: October 20, 2023

Date of first publication: February 8, 2024

Julie Humphrey Deputy Clerk

Receipt of this notice by mail should not be construed by the recipient to indicate that the recipient necessarily has a beneficial interest in the estate. The nature and extent of any person’s interest, if any, can be determined from the files and records of this estate in the Probate Division of the above referenced Circuit Court.

DATES OF PUBLICATION

February 8, 2024

February 15, 2024

February 22, 2024

February 29, 2024

Princeton boys From Page 3

both players hit three 3s. Other scoring: Kash Holt 5, Noel Schreffler 8. Cooper Boxley 5.

Four of the five NMK players that scored did so in double figures, led by 26 each from Johnson and Remole. NMK hit 11 3s out of its 27 field goals. Princeton 59, Gallatin 44

The Tigers opened their 3-game final week with a methodical win against their former Grand River Conference foe.

Clay Evans and Talan Holt each hit 3s and four Tigers scored in the first quarter, and Gallatin was held to one field goal, as Princeton got out to a 16-8 lead. Holt and Evans combined for 11 second-quarter points as Princeton outscored the Bulldogs 13-11 to lead 29-19 at halftime.

Six Tigers scored in the third quarter, which Princeton controlled 15-12 to increase its lead to 44-31, and Gallatin never really threatened after that. Princeton took the fourth quarter 15-13 as five players scored.

All 8 Tigers that played scored, led by Evans’ 18 points and four of the Tigers’ six 3s. Talan Holt added 15 points. Other scoring: Kelby Thomas 5, Kash Holt 7, Lincoln Berndt 2, Noel Schreffler 4, Boxley 6, Lowrey 2.

Mercer girls From Page 2

Mercer 58, Northwestern 18

Mercer had a turboclock-sized lead at halftime and ended the regular season with an easy victory on Friday night.

Mercer hit four 3s in the first quarter and led 24-6 after 8 minutes. The Cardinals put the game away by making three 3s in outscoring the Mendon-based Eagles 12-0 during the second to lead 36-6 at halftime. Two more 3s in the third quarter helped Mercer to a 13-5 advantage and a 49-11 margin that allowed the fourth quarter to be played under the mercy rule.

Eleven of the Cardinals’ 21 goals were 3s, with Brown getting all of her 15 points off the long shot. Fisher led all scorers with 23. Other scoring: Lily Stark 1, Sari Rogers 2, Breanna Houk 6, Riley Stark 6, Shively 3.

Mercer boys From Page 2

On their Senior Night, Mercer’s usual three senior starters combined for 60 of the Cardinals’ 69 points. Meinecke led the way with a game high 30, while Wolfe tossed in 19 and Hashman added 11. Other scoring: Hill 8, Kaimon West 1. Grundy County 57, Mercer 42

MERCER, Mo. Grundy County has dominated the HDC Conference the past two seasons, including Mercer. The score of last Monday night’s (Feb. 12) game looks as if the Panthers had their way with the Cardinals again, too.

That wasn’t the case, however, as Mercer stayed within less than 10 points - as few as 5 in the third quarter - most of the game before a late surge gave Grundy County its second-straight HDC title.

Grundy County (22-3, 5-0 HDC) took the lead for good in the first period, as the Panthers raced away to a 24-12 lead. Then, Mercer (4-1 HDC) righted the ship and made a game out of it. The Cardinals outgunned Grundy County 11-6 in the second quarter to make it 30-23 at the break, and a 12-12 standoff in the third saw the Panthers still up by 7, 42-35, going to the fourth. The visitors outscored Mercer 15-7 during the fourth period.

Meinecke led Mercer with 17 points, and Hashman added 12. Other scoring: Hill 9, Jayce Davis 1, Navari Payton 3.

As sweet as it gets

How cute is this kudu? Cute enough to warrant a lot more attention from its mom. Eric Byrd, zoological manager at the Cincinnati Zoo, noticed that a newborn lesser kudu calf wasn’t getting enough attention from first-time mom, Sabi, “so we stepped in and fed the calf.” If you’ve never seen a kudu, they’re as adorable as it gets and the good news is that it’s likely that Sabi will soon bond with her infant.

MERCER GIRLS BASKETBALL: Mercer wins 4th straight, record 23rd HDC title

Cardinals finish first - again

Mercer goes 3-0 over final week; Monday win gives Cardinals title

PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

MERCER, Mo. The Mercer girls’ march to another HDC Conference ended last Monday night with yet another league title. Despite a cold night from the field, the Cardinals got a boost from a senior reserve and hot free throw shooting from their all-state senior in defeating Grundy County 35-26.

Mercer (5-0 HDC) got two hoops, one a 3-pointer, from Gracie Rogers to open the fourth quarter, which started with the Cardinals holding a 20-15 lead. Then, Maddi Fisher went to the line in four 2-shot situations and hit all 8 free throws to help end Grundy County’s hopes of winning the league.

With both teams frigid from the floor, especially Mercer (8-of-40, just 20%), neither could establish a comfortable lead. Mercer led by a point after the first quarter, 7-6, and again at halftime, 12-11. The Cardinals outscored Grundy County

8-4 in the third quarter to establish a 20-15 margin, and they outscored the Panthers 15-11 in the fourth, thanks to Rogers’ two hoops, 10of-10 foul shooting (Payton Houk added a pair of late free throws) and defense that held Grundy to 22% shooting.

Fisher was the only player on either team to reach double figures in scoring, finish with 15 points despite making just one bucketshe hit 13-of-16 overall at the line. Other scoring: Rogers 8, Bailey Houk 4, Emma Shipley 3, Payton Houk 3, Breanna Houk 2.

The HDC title was Mercer’s fourth straight, and the program’s conference record 23rd league crown - 21 outright. Mercer has been HDC champions 13 of the past 15 seasons since 2010.

Mercer (22-2 final regular-season record) and Grundy County could have met for the fourth time this season on Wednesday, Feb. 21 in the semifinals of the Class 1, District 11 tournament in Princeton.

Monday’s win was the first of a

3-0 final regular-season week, with all the games played at Mercer. Mercer 56, Gilman City 27

The host Cardinals held Gilman City to two field goals - both third-quarter 3s - and 12 points in the second half of their Senior Night non-conference game.

Mercer took a 14-7 lead in the first quarter and still led by 7 points at halftime, 22-15, despite making just one bucket (a 3 by Ashlynn Brown) compared to four 2s by the Hawks.

The Cardinals began to pull away in the third, outscoring Gilman 16-9 behind 9 points from Fisher for a 38-24 cushion. Mercer outscored the Hawks 18-3 in the fourth as Gilman didn’t hit from the floor.

Fisher posted a double-double for Mercer, with 19 points and 15 rebounds. Brown hit four 3s for 12 points. Other scoring: Rogers 4, Payton Houk 8 (plus 9 rebounds), Breanna Houk 3, Bailey Houk 7, Liberty Shively 3.

See Mercer girls, Page 2

MERCER BOYS BASKETBALL: Cardinals finish regular season with 15

wins

Mercer takes momentum to postseason

Program went 24-48 over the previous three seasons

PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

MERCER, Mo By any reasonable standard, the 2023-24 season can be described as successful for the Mercer boys. After winning just a third of its games over the past three seasons (24 wins, 48 losses), the Cardinals are one of just two teams in this week’s Class 1, District 14 tournament with a winning record after downing Northwestern (Mendon) 47-41 on Friday night.

The Cardinals carried a 15-9 record and the #2 seed into District 14, and played winless East Harrison (0-23) Tuesday night (Feb. 20) in a first-round game at Jamesport. If they win, they’ll play in the district semifinals at 7:30 p.m. tonight (Thursday, Feb. 22).

Mercer led 7-6 after the first quarter, but NW rallied 12-10 in the

second for an 18-17 lead, despite 8 points from Tyler Meinecke, the Cardinals’ senior 2,000-point (and more, now) leader.

The visiting Eagles increased their margin in the third period, outscoring Mercer 18-16 to go ahead 36-33. The Cardinals tightened the defensive screws in the fourth quarter, holding Northwestern to two buckets and 5 points, while Meinecke hit for 10 points and Kobe Hill made 4-of-4 clutch free throws to lead Mercer on a 14-4 finishing rally to put the game away.

Meinecke led all scorers with 25 points, all of them over the final three quarters, and Hill hit in double figures with 11-2. Other scoring: Brenden Wolfe 8, Wes Hashman 2.

Mercer 69, Gilman City 63 (OT)

MERCER, Mo. The Cardinals lost a 7-point lead they took into the

fourth quarter, but rallied to control a 4-minute overtime session to take a non-HDC win last Tuesday night (Feb. 13).

Gilman City led 9-7 after the first quarter, and each team got 11 points in the second as the Hawks led 20-18 at halftime.

Mercer got 11 points from Wolfe in the third frame, and Mercer rallied 18-9 to lead 36-29 after 24 minutes. Landon Preston scored 12 points and Spike Burke got 9 during the fourth as Gilman City rallied 23-16 to eliminate the deficit and send the game to overtime in a 52-52 knot.

In the overtime, Meinecke scored 10 points, and Hill (a 3) and Hashman added hoops as the Cardinals staged a 17-11 comeback despite two 3s and 8 points from Preston for Gilman City.

See Mercer bots, Page 2

BETTY WILLIS/Special to the Post-Telegraph Mercer senior Liberty Shively (#50) got a start in the Cardinals’ last two home games - Feb. 13 against Gilman City (above) and Friday against Northwestern, and made a 3-point field goal during the first quarter of each game.

BETTY WILLIS/Special to the Post-Telegraph Cardinal Navari Payton (white uniform) defended Gilman City’s Landon Preston during last Tuesday night’s (Feb. 13) game. Preston is the son of former Princeton Tiger Keith Preston; he scored 26 points in a losing effort.

Tigers win, end regular season

Princeton sandwiches loss to homeschool program with wins

PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON, Mo. The combination of a tough loss 24 hours earlier and an opponent that played slower than they like could’ve spelled doom for the Princeton Tigers on Friday night.

The Tigers didn’t fall into that trap, however, outscoring a Class 3 outfit that’s rode the struggle bus all season in each quarter of their non-conference defeat of Lathrop, 57-34 in the third of three home games last week.

Clay Evans hit both of his 3-point shots and Talan Holt got 5 points during the first quarter, which ended with Princeton leading the Mules 15-10. That turned out to be Lathrop’s best quarter of the game though; they averaged 8 points per stanza the rest of the night.

Both teams were playing for the second-straight night and the third in four, and that showed the most in the second quarter. Holt hit for 7 Tiger points, and Princeton out-

scored the Mules 11-9 and led 2619 at halftime.

Princeton’s offense picked up a little bit in the third, 13-7 behind Holt’s 8 points, and the Tigers led 39-26 going to the fourth quarter. Five Tigers got in the scorebook during that final frame as they outscored Lathrop 18-8 to win going away.

Talan Holt led all scorers with 24 points, and Clay Evans also hit in double digits with 12. Other scoring: Kash Holt 8, Chase Evans 3, Noel Schreffler 6, Cooper Boxley 2, Hunter Lowrey 2.

Princeton (21-4) is the #2 seed in this week’s Class 2, District 16 tournament in Albany. The Tigers play either Gallatin or Albany at 7 p.m. tonight (Thursday, Feb. 22) in the semifinals.

Lathrop (3-23) is the #6 seed in the 7-team Class 3, District 16 tournament in Trenton.

North Missouri Knights 76, Princeton 63

The North Missouri Knights (NMK), a homeschool program with players from Trenton and Ma-

PRINCETON GIRLS BASKETBALL: Princeton rallies in the fourth quarter to force overtime

con, among other places, have the height to score from close and the range to score from deep. They used both to their advantage last Thursday night (Feb. 15).

Princeton led 17-16 after the first quarter, but NMK continued on something of a roll while the Tigers cooled off a bit in the second quarter. NMK outscored Princeton 1813 during that stretch and led 34-30 at intermission.

Cole Johnson hit the last three of his six 3s in the third quarter, and three other NMK players hit 3s during that stretch as they outscored the Tigers 24-19. Johnson scored 11 points and Levi Remole added 7 to pace MMK during the third, giving their team a 58-49 lead. NMK finished the game with an 18-14 edge in the fourth quarter as they hit 8-of-10 free throws (11of-17 overall); Princeton was 4-of10 overall.

Talan Holt was the night’s leading scorer with a 30-point output. Clay Evans chipped in with 26;

See Princeton boys, Page 2

Class 3 team slows Tigers’ bid for 20-win campaign

Princeton rallies to force OT, but Lawson takes extra session

PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

LAWSON, Mo. Princeton’s girls went into Friday night’s final regular-season game needing a win to clinch something no Tiger team had done in 26 years - win 20 games.

But playing a Class 3 team with a winning record is a tall task, and Lawson showed that as the Cardinals edged Princeton 9-6 in overtime for a 64-61 victory.

Down 41-39 going to the fourth quarter, Princeton got 6 points from Grace Kelly and a 3-point goal from Addilyn Henke to outscore Lawson 16-11 to force the extra 4-minute session tied at 55-55.

Lawson got 7 points from Kamryn Florea in overtime as the Cardinals outscored Princeton 9-6 to get the win.

Lawson (17-9) led 11-10 after the first quarter, but Princeton (19-6) got two 3s and 9 points from Henke and four points each from Kelly and Gracie Allnutt in the second,

outscoring the Cardinals 17-12 for a 27-23 halftime lead.

Lawson got its offense going in the third quarter, getting scoring from five players to outpace Princeton 18-12 to lead 41-39 after 24 minutes. The Tigers’ rally to force overtime followed.

Addilyn Henke hit three of Princeton’s four 3s, and was the game’s top scorer, netting 26 points. Kelly hit for 14 before fouling out late in the game. Other scoring: Macey Lewis 5, Allnutt 9, Mikaylee Henke 2, Randa Shahan 5.

No Tiger team had won 20 games in a season since the 1997-98 season, when Princeton reached the Class 1A quarterfinals.

Princeton is hosting this week’s Class 1, District 11 tournament, and is the event’s #2 seed. They played the winner of Monday’s (Feb. 19) game between Green City and Linn County in a semifinal game Wedesday night (Feb. 21).

Lawson is the #4 seed in the tough Class 3, District 15 tournament at Gower (East Buchanan).

Princeton 73, North Missouri Knights 40 PRINCETON, Mo. Four Tigers scored in double figures, and Princeton blew the game open in the second half for a non-conference win last Thursday night (Feb. 15) against the homeschool North Missouri Knights (NMK) program.

Five players scored in the first quarter as Princeton began to assert control with an 18-12 start. The Tigers pulled away further in the second, outscoring NMK 17-11 for a 35-23 halftime lead.

Led by 3s from Addilyn and Mikaylee Henke (for the third-straight quarter), and four points each from Allnutt and Grace Kelly, the Tigers put the game away with a 22-9 run that built their lead to 57-32.

Addilyn Henke led the field with four 3s and 31 points, and Princeton got double-digit outputs from Mikaylee Henke (13 points, three 3s), Grace Kelly (12) and Allnutt (10). Other scoring: Lewis 2, Gra-

See Princeton girls, Page 12

TERRI KELLY/Princeton Post-Telegraph

Princeton’s Macey Lewis (#0, front) dribbles upcourt away from a pressing Gallatin player.

TERRI KELLY/Princeton Post-Telegraph Princeton freshman Kash Holt (#3, right) protected a rebound from a Gallatin player.

Not much we can do, except vote

DR. GLENN MOLLETTE

Special to the Post-Telegraph NEWBURGH, Ind. We are saturated with news in America. We know about the legal troubles of former President Donald Trump. Every day we are updated about the latest court proceedings and what is still to come. What can you do about it? Nothing. You didn’t loan Trump the money and he doesn’t owe you. Loan officers from lending institutions worked these deals with Trump.

It’s between Trump and them, it seems to me. Every day you are bombarded with every detail of Trump’s legal issues from a woman he reportedly assaulted to a porn star who is dissatisfied with the hundred thousand dollars plus hush payment she reportedly received. What can you do about it? Nothing. Is all of this supposed to make you hate Trump and vote for someone else? It must be or we wouldn’t hear so much about what he has been accused of doing.

Almost every day we are reminded by some about the cognitive decline of President Joe Biden. Just like any president he is derided on a daily basis for his handling of our Southern border crisis, the economy, the decline of our military and much more. We care because it all impacts us, but what can you do about it? Nothing really. You can be mad and frustrated but that’s about all.

Minneapolis police officers were killed over the weekend. People were shot and one killed at the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl rally. Numerous people were shot. It makes us sick. We hurt for those whose lives were taken. We hurt for those families who lost loved ones.

We hurt every day and week in America as more and more mass shootings occur. So

MOLLETTE

what? What can you do about it? Nothing really. We vote. Of course, that’s the one thing we can do, but that’s about all. We can protest, march and scream and holler but Congress doesn’t pay any attention to that. Marches in Washington, D.C. are common and seemingly ignored.

Every day we hear about the border crisis. It seems to be a commonsense fix but what are you going to do? Many of us would go to the southern border and volunteer to complete the wall and fix the holes but our government would probably put us in jail for trying to protect America. Thousands are illegally pouring into our country and we hear about it every day, but what are you going to do about it? Nothing, really.

Every day we hear about the crisis of the Middle East. Israel, Gaza, Russia, and Ukraine. We hear a lot about Ukraine needing more and more money. It doesn’t matter if you think they need more or less money, it’s out of your hands. What can you do about it? Call your congressman? Call the president? Do you think they care about what you think? They care about one thing and that’s doing whatever it takes to be reelected.

All you can do is what you must do and that is vote, and you already know almost for sure who your options are for this upcoming election. That’s the one thing we can do. Since you and I can’t really do anything about all of this mess, we had better elect someone who will do something.

Find books by Glenn Mollette at Amazon.com. Learn more about his books, columns and music at GlennMollette.Com.

MERCER COUNTY 4-DAY WEATHER

National Weather Service - Pleasant Hill/Kansas City, Mo.

Time of forecast: 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 19

Thursday, Feb. 22: Mostly sunny; 57/33

Friday, Feb. 23: Sunny; 54/29

Saturday, Feb. 24: Sunny; 57/38

Sunday, Feb. 25: Sunny; 64

Forecasts reflect daytime high and overnight low temperatures. Weather forecasts change often. Check local radio, weather radio, or the NWS website (www.weather.gov) for the most recent

Coach Vince Lombardi

One way to save our children

PAUL HAMBY

Special to the Post-Telegraph MAYSVILLE, Mo. Did you hear about the teens attacking each other in Chicago last week? St Louis? Atlanta? No? I bet you did hear about the shootings at the Kansas City Chiefs parade.

We have an epidemic of teen violence.

The root of the problem comes from lonely confused young men looking for something to fill the emotional void created by parental neglect. The unspoken message many children are getting is they are not wanted nor valued by their parents.

Their self-worth now comes from their peers - gang members or other similar kids who are also left alone. Lost, depressed teenagers living day to day heading down a spiral that often leads to life on the street or jail.

The violence is a symptom of their life situation. All the noble calls to “stop the violence” fail because we have to fix the cultural problems that are resulting in lost teenagers who do not respect life or property because they do not respect themselves.

Barry Kaufman of Scientific American explains: “Self-esteem starts to develop around the age of 7. At this age, children draw heavily on social comparisons with others and start to evaluate themselves along the lines of “I am a loser,” “I am worthy,” or “I am special.” Children come to view themselves as they perceive they are seen by others.”

Self-esteem is typically lowest during early teenage years. It’s a vital time for positive parents, grandparents and extended family to make a difference.

Kauffman continues: “High

LIBERTY THOUGTS

self-esteem develops in tandem with parental warmth. Parents who raise children who exhibit high levels of self-esteem tend to treat their children with affection, appreciation, and fondness.They treat their children as though they matter. Eventually, this parenting practice leads to the child internalizing the message that they are worthy individuals, a core aspect of healthy self-esteem.”

We have an epidemic of teen violence that is caused by a mental health crisis.

Children need both parents involved in their lives. Kids need more family gatherings. More family photos will result in less mugshots. They need more family dinners sitting around a table with mom and dad both present and listening. Family time around the kitchen table with no phones or electronics. They need parents going to their kids’ events instead of going to the riverboat.

The government should do something! Yes they should. Government welfare subsidizing and encouraging single parent homes should be stopped. This one government practice has been most destructive to our American culture of strong families. Broken children are the consequence and it has now become a generational problem. St Louis leads our state with 54% of homes with single parents. Kansas City comes in at 36%. At one time, this was just an issue in the urban cores, but no more. Many rural Missouri counties are now reporting 25%-30% single parent households. The consequence of ignored children being

raised by gangs and Tik Tok, is innocent folks being caught in the crossfire of troubled teens growing up without a father.

We need more role models like Shaquille O’Neal and LeBron James, who openly express love for their sons. PDA is a good thing.

Children need to hear the positive message of opportunity in America. They need to learn at a young age that with hard work, skill and perseverance they can break out of poverty and live a comfortable life. They need to know that the American Dream is alive and well. If they work smart and control the urge to spend more than they make… Dave Ramsey explains it best; “the majority of American millionaires – 79% – did not receive an inheritance from parents or other family members. Instead, they achieved millionaire status through hard work and smart financial choices.”

That 7-10-year-old child you know needs to hear these words: “In America you will have the opportunity to be successful and have a great life.” They need sincere praise, respect and tell them that you love them.

We can stop the violence by raising mentally healthy children.

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

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

updates.

OBITUARIES

James Porter

Summerville, S.C.

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of James Lee Porter of Summerville S.C., on Feb. 10, 2024, at the age of 75 years.

James Lee Porter was born on June 4, 1948 in Princeton, Mo.

He will be lovingly remembered by his mother Ruth M. Porter; his children: Melinda (Kevin) Branham, Marcus Porter, and Lindsey (Jason) Monroe; grandchildren: Aaron (Samantha) Porter, Austin Branham, Raquel Porter, and Tanner Cronk; great grandchild: Aaron Michael Porter II; brothers, Greg (Cheryl) Porter, Gary (Lori) Porter; sister, Karla (Danny) Hill; as well as numerous relatives and friends.

He was predeceased by his father, Leon Dale Porter of Lineville, Iowa; and his loving wife of 49 years Marjorie D. Porter of Summerville, S.C.

James, better known as “Pa” around the house, was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, great grandfather and friend to many, especially those who came in contact with Margie, as she never met a stranger. James grew up in the small farming town

of Lineville, where he learned how to work a living farm until going to the College of Automation in Des Moines, Iowa until drafted into the Army. In the Army he was an infantryman in Vietnam, serving from 1969-1971, spending well over a year overseas defending our country; not exactly the life for such a peaceful man. After the war, his life began again by attending Kirkwood Community College in Cedar Rapids, earning an associates degree. He dedicated his career outside of the military as a computer programmer for companies such as Lockheed-Martin for NASA Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla., followed by Mead-Wesvaco in Charleston, S.C. He was that IT guy before IT was the expanding field it is today.

A true, honest, hard-working family man who was quirky, quiet and passionate for the safety and well-being of his children, grandchildren and great grandchild. He could rearrange the lyrics to any fable and children’s songs without a skip of the beat and keep the story or song going beyond its original ending. Loved baseball..especially attending games, Lets Go Dogs!

His funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24 at Roberson Funeral Home, Princeton. Burial with Military Rites will follow in Evergreen Cemetery, Lineville. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

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

COMMISSION

MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION

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

All votes are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

Monday, Feb. 5

• Minutes of the Jan. 29 meeting were approved as corrected.

• The Jan. 31 payroll was approved.

• Bills were approved and paid.

• Deputy Sheriff Randy Francis spoke to commissioners. They discussed dispatch changes and mobile units for vehicles.

• Commissioners received the balance sheet for the month ending Jan. 31 from Collector/ Treasurer Susan Moore. They also received expenditure and revenue reports from County Clerk Judy Hamilton.

• Hamilton presented the Mercer County Financial Statement for the year ending Dec. 31, 2023. Commissioners approved the statement. It will be submitted to the Princeton

Post-Telegraph and sent to the Missouri state auditor.

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

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

• Sheriff Jose Lopez presented December meal costs for inmates. He also presented the January motor equipment expense report for himself and Francis.

• Commissioners and Hamilton signed a certified copy of order authorizing Moore to pay Tiger Commissary Services $413.20 for commissionary items for prisoners. Money was taken from Jail Commissary Fund #49.

• Widner spoke to commissioners about problems with the server backing up. She will contact Tyler Technologies, who have maintenance on the server.

• Commissioners approved auctioneer licenses to Burton Prunty and Douglas Head.

• Commissioners received mileage logs from Road & Bridge Supervisor Shawn Powell dated Jan. 10-Feb. 5.

• Commissioners approved an auctioneer license for Chad Shephard Auctioneer.

• Cecil Jennings spoke to commissioners about maintaining problems in Somerset Township. They told him to talk to his township officials.

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, Feb. 26: maid rite/bun, macaroni and cheese, green beans, carrots, pears.

Tuesday, Feb. 27: fish filet, parmesan potatoes, peas and carrots, strawberry salad, sliced bread.

Wednesday, Feb. 28: chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, asparagus, biscuit, banana bar.

Thursday, Feb. 29: loaded baked potato (chili and cheese), sliced bread, mixed fruit salad.

Friday, March 1: to be determined.

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.

Council transfers deed for old ballfields to horse show group

Arena Association to use area for camping.

Documents for water project also approved

PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON The fate of the old ballfields in the west part of Princeton was determined during the Princeton City Council last Monday night (Feb. 12).

Representatives of the Princeton Arena Association, which holds horse shows in its arena south of the ballfields, were in attendance and asked council members if the association could take over the lease for the area. Plans are for the group to remove the fencing around the two ballfields and install 20 campground spots.

The three council members present voted to allow the association to take over the lease and start its project.

Water project

Philip Wilson with McClure Engineering told the council that the state Department of Natural Resources has approved specifications for the

city’s water project to go out for bid, and the council voted to do so.

The council also voted to have City Clerk Cory Willett sign a “due diligence” document for the project. And, the council voted to pass what’s called the wastewater resolution of governing body. Both items are related to the project.

Other items

• Mercer County Fair Board president Seth Davis requested a service contract for $6,000 to have the band Members Only to perform on Friday, July 19 during this year’s fair. The request was approved.

• A request from the Princeton R-5 School District for relief of part of the district’s bill was approved.

Superintendent Jerry Girdner had emailed City Hall asking to have part of the bill forgiven. The district had a water line break in the elementary building that was caused when a city water main broke during the mid-January cold wave. The council voted to write off

R-5 calendar From Page 1

will come from $50,000 School Safety grants the district has received.

• Girdner provided results of the Get the Lead Out initiative which involves safe drinking water. With one exception, test results fell within acceptable limits for lead.

The exception was the ice machine in the elementary kitchen, which measured 10.4 parts per billion (ppb). The testing threshold is 5 ppb. The machine was disconnected, and the water line and filtration system will be replaced. The machine will then be retested to ensure its effectiveness.

• Special education director Dr. Merideth Ussery presented the district’s 2023 MSIP 6 and APR test results.

• Counselors Lori Puls and Heather Hall provided reviews of their program.

• Students were in class on Feb. 12 to make up the day missed on Jan. 22 after a city water main break that caused a leak in one of the buildings. The board formally approved the action.

• The 2024-25 school calendar was approved. It calls for the next school year to start Tuesday, Aug. 20, with the last day of classes set for Thursday, May 15, 2025. Snow days are built into the calendar.

The calendar calls for 1,107.9 hours of classroom time, well above the state minimum of 1,044 hours.

• The board amended the fiscal year 2024 budget for insurance purposes. The Health Insurance Max Liability Account will reflect a budgeted amount of $119,434. Closed session

In addition to actions involving the administrators’ contracts, the board handled other employment items during the closed session.

Resignations were accepted from agriculture education teacher and FFA advisor Kurt Meighen, and Parents As Teachers instructor Crissy Weber, were accepted.

Dale Bagley was given the extra duty assignment as junior high scholar bowl advisor.

He jumps for joy

Henry Cabelus is a pogo stick expert who already holds the record for making a 10.1 foot backflip jump. But he is not content and says his aim is to make a 10.6-foot backflip, at least. He’s been at it for 10 years now and has broken nine bones, four of which were in his face and admits that it’s pretty scary.

the water and sewer bills that were over the district’s average usage.

• Discussion about the city’s contract with the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office for ordinance and law enforcement services was tabled.

• The council rejected a request by City Superindent Greg Goodknight and Jarrett Goodin to open an alley between

Lots 2 and 3 of the J.C. Lomax Addition along Ballew Street. It was noted that to open the alley a tube would have to be installed, and dirt work and gravel would be needed.

• Goodknight was given permission to post two trucks and a tractor up for bids on the Purple Wave Auction website to sell to the highest bidder. The trucks are a 2002 GMC

and a 2000 Chevy, and the tractor is a Ford 861.

• The council decided to advertise for a seasonal employee who would help with summer mowing. The person hired will be paid $15 per hour.

• A request by Deputy City Clerk Jami McLain to update computer software was approved. The new software will be a cloud-based system pro-

vided by the company GWorks. Both city clerks will was the equipment.

• Two persons who were scheduled to address the council did not attend the meeting - Rochele Sohn about a water leak, and Justin Sharp about a cat.

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

Lineville council holds meeting

PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

LINEVILLE, Iowa Matters discussed and actions taken by the Lineville City Council during its Feb. 12 included:

• City Clerk Brandy Shriver presented the monthly fund balance report. Income was reported at $12,357.30 in governmental funds and $29,251.53 in utility utility funds. Expenses were $8,721.38 in governmental funds and $20,363.34 in utility funds. Transfers of $1,425 were made in utility funds$525 in the Sewer Department, $600 in the Water Department and $300 in the Gas Department.

• Bills totaling $18,545.35 were approved and paid.

• Shrinkage in the Water Department was reported to be 15.97%. Council members and Mayor Jack Shields discussed a recent boring bill to get a water meter moved.

• Sewer Department: Shields reported the city had purchased two loads of rock for around the lagoon.

• Garbage Department: City Clerk Brandy Shriver was told to find out why construction materials aren’t allowed on

“Big Trash” pickup day, and to look into possibly having a roll-off box placed on the square for residents dispose of those materials on that day. She was also directed to ask about windows.

• Street Department: Shields said a resident donated $3,000 for gravel to be placed on three specific streets - Walnut, College and the northernmost end of Main. Council members asked him to see if Ralston Auto would be willing to install a new tube at the property, and to get costs of getting the northernmost end of Main Street regraded before adding gravel.

• Fire Chief Brentt Snow appeared and asked permission to use $10,000 from the Fire Equipment Fund to buy a skid unit for one of the grass trucks. The cost of the skid unit is $14,330, but the Fire Department would pay the difference out of its funds. The council approved the request.

Snow also presented preliminary blueprits for the town’s new fire station.

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

Princeton Elementary School recently held its January awards assembly. At the assembly, the following sixth grade students were recognized for receiving the BUG Award (Bringing Grades Up). To receive this award, students must bring their second quarter grades up from their first quarter grades, or average a 92% grade in all classes for the semester. The following students were recognized, from left: BACK - Presley Stockman, Maizy Allen, Aubrey Meek, Ray Green, Chandler Ussery, Brooklyn Purvis, and Dreamy Staten;

February is Earthquake Awareness Month

Special to the Post-Telegraph

JEFFERSON CITY Each

February, the state of Missouri observes Earthquake Awareness Month to emphasize the chance of a major earthquake occurring in the New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ) and the importance of being prepared.

Located in Southeast Missouri, the NMSZ generated some of the most powerful earthquakes to ever jolt the nation. A series of major quakes occurred in 1811-1812, destroying buildings,

ringing church bells hundreds of miles away and briefly causing the Mississippi River to run backward.

The area is still active today with an average of more than 200 earthquakes each year, though most are too small to be felt. No one can predict exactly when an earthquake will occur, but scientists agree that large earthquakes in this zone still pose a risk. Experts estimate there is a 25% to 40% chance of a large earthquake occurring in

the next 50 years.

“Missouri faces a variety of severe weather threats and hazards each year, but a large earthquake could potentially be the worst natural disaster the state has ever experienced,” State Emergency Management Agency Director Jim Remillard said. “There is no warning for earthquakes,

which is why it’s so important to learn about the risks and how to protect yourself before one occurs.”

When shaking starts, the best way to stay safe and protect yourself from falling debris is the “Drop, Cover and Hold See Earthquakes, Page 12

FRONT - Andrew Campbell, Gray Rardon, Matthew Campbell, and Emilee Bilyeu.

January cold wave made feeding hay difficult for producers

ERIC BAILEY

Special to the Post-Telegraph COLUMBIA, Mo. The recent cold snap increased hay needs for beef cows and is putting the squeeze on tight hay inventory. And without a wet winter to overcome soil moisture deficits, it is possible that grass growth rate will be delayed/slowed this spring.

The University of Missouri recently launched www.feedstufffinder.org, a website to find or list hay and other feedstuffs for sale. Feed pricing is bound to increase if farms are forced back into the market to buy more hay to make it through the winter. Let’s discuss options for farms that run short on hay this winter. Daily cow feeding

Energy is the most limiting nutrient in beef cow diets in Missouri during the winter. Recently, I observed advertisements for grass hay online for up to $250 per ton. If you can feed commodities, it’s time to take a hard look at them as a hay replacement.

Let’s use corn as an example, as it often sets the price of other commodity feeds. Corn at $5.35 a bushel ($4.60/bushel futures price + $0.75/bushel basis) is $191.07 per ton.

Every pound of corn has 80% more energy than 50% TDN (total digestible nutrients) low-quality grass hay. Buying more calories for less money per ton is a wise financial move.

How can I safely substitute corn for hay?

Commodities need to be fed to cows daily if substituting for hay. Start with 5-6 pounds of commodities/cow/day and increase, depending on nutrient requirements. I generally recommend increasing 1 pound per cow

per day when working up to greater levels of commodities in a beef cow diet. Fall-calving cows with a calf at side need up to 10 pounds of commodities per day. Corn is a great source of energy but lacks in crude protein; if you are using corn, blend four parts corn with one part dried distillers grains to balance crude protein in the supplement.

The recommendation is not to feed 10 pounds of commodities in addition to free choice hay, but rather to limit feed hay in addition to the daily supplement feeding. Do not feed less than 10 pounds of hay per cow per day, and 15 pounds is a better idea then 10 pounds.

When cow diets become severely limited in hay, the risk of digestive upsets increases when feeding rate and feeding time vary widely day over day. Thus, we must be ac-

curate and consistent with feed calls and feeding time. You do not want to try to keep a cow productive when she cleans up an entire day’s ration in 45 minutes. They will act hungry despite being fed a ration designed to meet or in some cases exceed nutrient requirements. What do I do if I cannot feed cows daily?

The plan above will not work for farms that currently put out hay once or twice a week. My perception is that farms in this situation are seeking “deals” on forage and building diets around hay.

Bud Williams once said that a farm has three inventories to manage: forage, cattle and cash. Beef cow operations are not cash machines, so we are cautious not to overspend. It’s worth considering weaning fall-born calves early, though, if hay price continues to escalate.

Use a value-of-gain calculation to identify what the market is willing to pay you to put additional weight on calves.

Why would we consider weaning calves early?

Every 2.5 days that a calf is weaned early saves one day’s feed for a cow. By cutting nutrient requirements by 40%, we reduce the number of bales needed rather than having to go out on the market to procure more hay. This recommendation is challenging for farms with long calving seasons.

Let’s assume that calving started Aug. 15 and ended Nov. 1. There will be 150-day-old calves and 90-day-old calves weighing anywhere from 250 pounds to 375 pounds. I have no concerns weaning a 150-day-old calf, but the 90-day-old calf may be less desirable in the marketplace despite being physically capa-

ble of transitioning from a milk-based to a forage-based diet. Perhaps weaning the older calves and marketing them can make a dent in your hay needs.

Let’s examine a value of gain example. I use the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Weekly Market Summary when doing value-of-gain calculations. In the summary published Jan. 22, 2024, a 321-pound steer calf brought $3.19 per

pound, and a 431-pound steer brought $324.87 per pound.

Right off the bat, there is no price slide, and thus the market is willing to pay more than $3.19 per pound for you to put another 100 pounds on these calves. Assuming a calf gains 2 pounds per day from birth to weaning, each day that calf is on your farm, he is gener-

See Feeding hay, Page 10

Top four spellers from county bee

Eight local offices to be filled

CHESTON EASTER

Special to the Post-Telegraph

Several political offices are up for election in Mercer County this coming November, including 1st District commissioner, 2nd District commissioner, sheriff, collector/ treasurer, assessor, public administrator, coroner, and 3rd Circuit Court judge (Grundy, Harrison, Mercer and Putnam counties)

The window to file for the Aug. 6 primary election as a Republican or Democratic candidate with the Mercer County Clerk’s office runs from Feb. 27 through March 26. The last day to file as an independent candidate is July 30 for the Nov. 5 general election.

The initial qualifications to file as a candidate

in a Missouri county include:

• 21 years of age

• Citizen of the United States

• Registered voter

• Permanent resident of the county for at least 12 months prior to the election (land ownership is not sufficient)

• Non-delinquent on all county personal and real estate taxes

Additional age, residency, licensing, and statutory bond requirements exist for a Circuit Court judge, sheriff, and treasurer, all of which can be found on the Missouri Secretary of State’s website.

Democracy dies with apathy but prospers through participation. All qualified candidates with a willingness and

New regulations for state fair exhibitors

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.

The Missouri Department of Agriculture has announced changes to animal health requirements for cattle and swine exhibitors at fairs and exhibitions in Missouri. 2024 will serve as an educational year for exhibitors and exhibition leadership to become accustomed to the new rules.

Cattle and swine exhibitors must provide a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), completed by an accredited veterinarian within 30 days of the show. The CVI should list the shows where the animal will be

exhibited during the 30day time frame. A printed or an electronic version of the CVI is acceptable.

In addition, beef and swine projects must be identified with an official form of identification.

USDA provides guidance for the criteria and options for official identification eartags. Official identification options include:

• An official National Uniform Eartagging System (NUES) tag.

Feeding hay difficult

ating $6.38 in revenue. If you can feed your cow for less than $6.38, then you are making money. If not, then it makes financial sense to sell the calf.

How about heifers?

In the Jan. 22 market summary, a 309-pound heifer brought $2.80 per pound, and a 425-pound heifer brought $2.73 per pound. The market paid you $293.25 to put 116

after cold wave From Page 9 pounds on these heifers, or $2.53 per pound. That makes your budget tighter because a heifer calf is only generating $5.06 every day she is on your farm, again assuming 2 pounds average daily gain from birth to weaning. Use pricing from the market you usually sell calves at to dial value-ofgain calculations in even further.

ability are encouraged to pursue public service at the township and county levels.

Next time … When are county commission meetings open for public input?

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

º Begins with the official state number 43 for Missouri.

See Regulations change, Page 11

Regardless of the path you choose, make sure the decisions you make to get cows through the winter make financial sense. Sometimes we have to make the “least worst” decision rather than the best decision.

Originally published by Cattlemen’s News, Joplin Regional Stockyards, Inc. Distributed with permission.

COURTESY PRINCETON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

The top four finishers in the Mercer County Spelling Bee, from left: Annie Martin, first alternate; Emzlie Bauer, second alternate; Ursula Morales, champion; and Chandler Ussery, second place. The local bee was held Feb. 2 at Princeton Elementary School.

Anyone

know anything about this old photo?

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Lila McLain of Cainsville brought this photo by the Post-Telegraph office recently in an attempt to find out just what this old school was, where it was and, maybe, the names of some of the people shown. If you can help, please contact her.

Help sought to feed kids this summer

LISA

COX

Special to the Post-Telegraph

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is looking for non-profit organizations throughout the state to help feed thousands of children who may otherwise go without meals during the summer months and during times of public emergencies, when children do not have access to free or reduced-price meals at school.

The Summer Food Service Program reimburses organizations for meals they serve to children under the age of 18 who are at risk of not having enough to eat during the summer months. The program is one of the ways Missouri is working to fight childhood hunger. Organizations that choose to sponsor the SFSP will help ensure that children in underserved areas of the state continue to receive nutritious meals when school is not in session.

Organizations eligible to participate in the

program as sponsors include non-profit organizations such as schools, faith-based organizations, camps, private nonprofit agencies, and local government entities. The sites qualify if they are located in areas where at least half of the children are eligible to receive free or reduced-price meals.

The federally funded program is administered by DHSS. The department will accept applications from new non-profit organizations March 1 through May 15 to participate in the program. Organizations interested in serving nutritious meals to children through the summer are requested to apply. Training in the requirements for the program will be provided.

º Allocated by USDA to accredited veterinarians.

More information about the Summer Food Service Program is available online at www.health. mo.gov/sfsp or by telephone at 888-435-1464 (toll-free). Hearing and speech-impaired citizens can dial 711. Community organizations that would like to become sponsors may also email the Summer Food Service Program at sfsp@health. mo.gov or write to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, Summer Food Service Program, P.O. Box 570, Jefferson City, MO 65102 for more information.

• An official Animal Identification Number (AIN) tag.

Regulations change for fair exhibitors From Page 10 to the farm. Obtaining a CVI will help exhibitors establish a relationship with a local veterinarian if they do not already have a relationship.”

º Consists of 15 digits, beginning with 840 for the United States.

º Visual or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)

º Available from the manufacturer.

• A registration tattoo and registration papers from the appropriate breed association.

• For unregistered swine, an ear notch accompanied with farm records.

“These rule changes are meant to reduce the risk of introducing disease into Missouri herds,” said Missouri State Veterinarian Dr. Steve Strubberg. “Veterinary observation prior to the show or exhibition will reduce the risk of diseased animals infecting healthy animals, which could then carry an illness back

The CVI and animal identification requirements are already in place for sheep and goat exhibitors.

Exhibitors are encouraged to work with their local veterinarian, 4-H leader or FFA advisor, or fair superintendents to ensure these new requirements are met prior to the fair or exhibition.

Fair leadership, 4-H leaders or FFA advisors should contact the Missouri Department of Agriculture Animal Health team with questions at 573-7513377 or animal.health@mda.mo.gov.

For the full list of exhibition requirements, visit agriculture.mo.gov.

See FAQ, Official Identification Requirements and Enforcement Discretion documents on the MDA website.

CAINSVILLE

MELANIE CHANEY

I don’t really have much news this week either, but it’s February and I know not much is happening.

There’s a school board meeting on Thursday Feb. 22 at 6 p.m. The FFA will be going to the farm show in Kansas City on Friday, Feb. 23, and the high school basketball teams are playing in dis-

tricts this week.

Sympathy to the family and friends of Cliff Wadle, who was born June 24th 1963 to Clifford and Joanne Wadle. His grandparents were Henry and Bina (Booth) Thomas, formally of Cainsville.

Sympathy to the family and friends of Neva Rose Keith, who recently passed away.

Please send me some news for next week!

Princeton girls From Page 3

cie Mitchell 3, Audrey Kelly 2.

Princeton 52, Gallatin 40

PRINCETON, Mo. The visiting Bulldogs held a 10-point lead in the second quarter last Tuesday night (Feb. 13), but Princeton staged a big rally to get the win.

Gallatin led 10-5 after the first quarter and 15-5 early in the second, before the Tigers began their comeback. Addilyn Henke hit for 7 points and Audrey Kelly added 6, as Princeton ended the peri-

od on a 16-7 run to pull to within 22-21 at halftime.

Princeton passed the Bulldogs in the third quarter, getting 10 points from Henke to fuel a 16-4 surge for a 37-26 Tiger lead. Princeton scored the first six points of the fourth for their biggest lead, 43-26 at the end of what was a 38-11 rally.

Addilyn Henke led Princeton’s attack with 21 points over the final three periods. Audrey Kelly added 10. Other scoring: Allnutt 7, Mikaylee Henke 5, Grace Kelly 9.

Earthquakes From Page 8

On” technique. Drop to your knees, cover your head, get under a desk or table if possible and hold on until the shaking stops. Experts say that in developed countries with modern structures, falling debris is the most common source of injury.

In active earthquake zones, it’s also important to prepare by taking some simple safety steps before an earthquake occurs:

• Bolt bookcases to wall studs, install strong latches on cupboards and secure your home's water heater. If it tips over, it could start a fire or gas leak, and you could lose a valuable source of water.

• Secure overhead lighting fixtures and move heavy objects from high shelves to lower ones. Many injuries in an earthquake are caused by this type of falling debris.

• Put together an emergency kit, including a flashlight, first aid supplies, portable radio,

Fishy fish

drinking water and blankets. A major earthquake could leave families without utilities for weeks.

• Develop a family communication plan. Identify a relative living at least 100 miles away that everyone can call to check in and tell family you're safe.

• Know how to turn off your gas and water.

• Find out if your house is covered for earthquake damage. Most homeowner insurance does not include earthquake coverage - it must be purchased separately.

Several resources for families, schools and businesses are available on SEMA's Earthquake Preparedness website. Included are fact sheets, interactive maps and informational videos that explain what to do in the event of an earthquake.

For more information, please visit sema.dps. mo.gov/earthquake_preparedness.

What’s that in the waters of Pawleys Island, South Carolina? Even the experts at the Marine Resources Research Institute in Charleston don’t have an answer. They admitted that they are “stumped.” But the news anchors at a local TV station appear to have determined it is a “sea slug” of sorts.

Fishy noises

For the past several years residents in Tampa Bay, Fla., have been trying to find the source of lowpitched sounds. Many of them – including Dr. James Locascio, senior scientist at the Mote Marine Laboratory – believe it is the sound of fish mating, specifically ray-finned, black drum fish. Locascio would like to use underwater acoustic recorders to identify and confirm the sounds and a local resident is seeking to raise the $2,500 it would cost.

GRM Networks announces grant recipients

Special to the Post-Telegraph PRINCETON, Mo. GRM Networks awarded a total of $3,750 as part of the company’s Community Improvement Grant program. Organizations receiving funding in the second semiannual distribution for calendar year 2023 are the city of Allerton, Iowa; the North Harrison Fire Protection District of Eagleville, Mo.; the Jamesport City Park of Jamesport, Mo.; and the North Central Missouri Children’s Advocacy Center of Trenton, Mo.

The city of Allerton was awarded a $1,100 grant to be used to replace original windows and window casings at the Allerton Civic Center - a community meeting place used by organizations and community members for meetings, reunions and other social activities.

The North Harrison Fire Protection received a $1,000 grant that will be used to purchase mannequins to teach CPR to firefighters, emergency medical tech-

nicians and community members.

The Jamesport City Park received a $1,000 grant to purchase tables for outdoor activities at the park’s new community building.

The North Central Missouri Children’s Advocacy Center received a $650 grant to purchase sensory-friendly comfort items for their front service area for children.

Applications for the next distribution of grants are being accepted now through May 1. Grant amounts vary, with a minimum of $500 and a maximum of $1,500 awarded to successful applicants. The cooperative’s Board of Directors will review applications and award grant amounts. Applications may be downloaded by visiting grm.net/about-us/grants/. Questions regarding grant applications should be directed to Amy Davison at 888-748-2110 or adavison@corp.grm.net.