07-20-2023 Post Telegraph

Ag youth belt buckle winners

Council approves $6,600 in service contracts for music

Funds provided for Calamity Jane Days, October event

PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON The three members present for last Monday night’s (July 10) Princeton City Council meeting agreed to provide “service contracts”money from the city’s band tax - for future events sponsored by the Mercer County Fair Board and the Princeton Chamber of Commerce.

Mercer County Fair Board president Seth Davis requested $3,000 for the band Dirt Road Addiction to perform during a beer garden the board plans to sponsor during the evening of Saturday, Oct. 28.

• Joey McLiney presented information about the city authorizing the issuance and delivery of $950,000 principal amount of combined waterworks and sewerage system refunding revenue bonds, Series 2023 (design phase). An ordinance authorizing issuance and delivery had already been prepared, and after some discussion, the ordinance was approved, went through two readings, and passed again.

• An ordinance was passed to allow MoDOT to make repairs and improvement at the intersection of Truax Street and Grant Street (U.S. 136).

PRESTON COLE/Princeton Post-Telegraph

In partnership with the Brownfield Ag Network and Alpha Media (KAAN-FM in Bethany), an outstanding Agri Youth Belt Buckle award is given to a female and male exhibitor during the Mercer County Fair Livestock Show. The Mercer County Fair Board is a proud sponsor of the 2023 Mercer Country Livestock Outstanding Agri Youth Belt Buckle award. The female winner is Tessa Ellsworth (center), and the male winner is Brodie Ellsworth. Fair Board president Seth Davis presented the kids their belt buckles.

Mercer school board receives CSIP update

Bid for new wireless softball scoreboard gets approval

PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

MERCER Members of the North Mercer County R-3 Board of Education received an update on the district’s CSIP during its Monday, July 10 meeting.

CSIP is the acronym for Comprehensive School Improvement Plan, and it consists of goals for the district to meet.

Superintendent Wade Hall met with staff on July 10 and described the meeting as “very productive.”

The CSIP committee had set 11 goals for the district to meet, and met six of them. The other five goals were intended to have been met over the next

one to two years. A goal for math is going to be created. Data from 2023 test scores will be reviewed.

The CSIP committee consists of Hall, principal Amy Huse, and three teachers, and they will continue to monitor goals.

Other items

• Three persons were named to fill four support positions.

Terry Bomgardner was appointed to serve at the district’s homeless liaison and migrant education director. Melissa Hill will serve as the foster care point of contact. Greg Frost was named as English language learner coordinator.

• A list of board goals was approved. Under Goal 3, the dis-

See Scoreboard, Page 5

Davis asked about insurance requirements and other things the board has to have to hold the event, which is being planned for the livestock show arena of the Mercer County Fairgrounds. He also mentioned the help he’s received from Steve “Chief” Mason, owner of Princeton’s lone tavern, Chief’s Tavern, about planning such an event. Mason held a beer garden on a vacant city lot for several years.

Davis is going to obtain the needed information and bring it to the council’s August meeting.

No one represeted the chamber at the meeting, but a list of service contract requests for Calamity Jane Days totaling $6,600 were presented and approved. They include $700 for the band Branded Souls, $1,000 for the band Mixology, $400 for Walter Plant, and $1,500 each for three ShootOut performance, three Melodrama performances, and the marching bands that perform during and after the parade.

Other items

• The council heard a 50-minute dissertation about Sensus water meters and Groebner gas meters for future system upgrades from Tim Schade, a regional meter manager for Core & Main. No action was taken, but the company has provided a bid packet for review.

• Without a vote, the council agreed to add city clerk Cory Willett and deputy clerk Jami McLain to the city’s phone plan.

• A Bethany woman, Rachel Eivins, submitted the high bid for a pool slide from the former city pool.

• Councilman Peggy Constable brought up a property on Park Street she says is in need of nuisance abatement. Willett is to find out who owns the

property so that a letter can be sent.

• City superintendent Greg Goodknight reported there are “significant” issues with wells #8 and #9. Both have had work done on them. Well #8 is still down, he said, and recommended closing it. As for well #9, he said that while it has been repaired, it needs a lot of treatment to keep it compliance with regulations. Goodknight suggested replacing that well.

• Constable presented a list of properties located at 302 Truax, 106 Markey, and 101, 103 and 105 Washington with high tax debts, and wondered if anything could be done about it.

Veteran council members Tony Johnson and Karee Cunningham told Constable about the history about city demolitions and mowing liens, and said it’s unlikely there would be any resolution.

The next Princeton City Council meeting was set for Monday, Aug. 14 at 6 p.m.

Editor’s note: Information for this report came from meeting minutes provided by City Clerk Cory Willett.

Fair royalty

CHRISTY McCRACKEN/Princeton Post-Telegraph

2023 Mercer County Fair royalty were announced last Wednesday, July 12. From left: prince Remington Mathews, princess Brynlea Power, queen Emily Oswalt, and king Kolton Schurke.

Mercer County

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NO HUNTING

NOTICE - Hunting and trespassing with dog and/or gun, trapping or fishing on land owned or leased by the undersigned is strictly forbidden. You are hereby warned to keep off these properties. Trespassers will be prosecuted.

No tresspassing for any reason on land that we own or lease. John & Linda Baughman. 9-29-22-52tpP+C

No hunting or trespassing on any land owned by Bill and Peggy Heck 9-15-22-52tbP+C

No hunting, fishing or trespassing on property owned, leased or rented by Joe and Victoria Ryan 4-27-23-52tpP+C

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

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

Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on Choate property at any time. 3-30-23-52tpP

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

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

NO HUNTING

Absolutely NO TRESPASSING, including but not limited to hunting, fishing, hiking, mushroom hunting and drones on land owned and/ or rented by FRJ Family Farms, LLC and Roberta Zimmer. 3-23-23-52tpP+C

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

INFORMATION

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All real estate and/or houses, and all rental housing and/or property, advertised in the Princeton Post-Telegraph newspaper and the Courier shopper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. We will not knowlingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

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

LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF MERCER COUNTY, MISSOURI PROBATE DIVISION

In the Estate of: WINTON EUGENE COON, DECEASED

Case No. 23AI-PR00010 NOTICE OF LETTERS TESTMENTARY (Independent Admibistration) TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF WINTON EUGENE COON, DECEASED

On July 5, 2023, the Last Will and Testament of the decedent having been admitted to probate, the following individual was appointed the personal representative of the estate of WINTON EUGENE COON, decedent, by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Mercer County, Missouri. The personal representative may administer the estate independently without adjudication, order, or direction of the Probate Division of the Circuit Court, unless a petition for supervised administration is made to and granted by the Court.

The name and address of the personal representative is: ROBERT COWHERD, 903 JACKSON ST., PO BOX 228, CHILLICOTHE, MO 64601.

The personal representative’s attorney’s name, business and phone number: ROBERT COWHERD, CHAPMAN AND COWHERD, P.C., 903 JACKSON, PO BOX 228, CHILLICOTHE, MO 64601.

All creditors of said decedent are notified to file claims in court within six months from the date of 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 applicable limitation periods. Nothing in Section 473.033, RSMo, shall be construed to bar any action against a decedent’s liability insurance carrier through a defendant ad litem pursuant to Section 537.021, RSMo.

Date of decedent’s death:

November 14, 2022.

Date of first publication:

July 13, 2023.

/s/ Julie Humphrey, Deputy Clerk

Receipt of this Notice by mail should not be construed by the recipient to indicate that he necessarily have a beneficial interest in the Estate. The nature and extent of any person’s interest, if any, may possibly be determined from the file and records on this Estate filed in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Mercer County, Missouri.

DATES OF PUBLICATION

July 13, 2023

July 20, 2023

July 27, 2023

August 3, 2023

OrganizatiOns

Chapter BY PEO

Chapter BY PEO met July 10 at Princeton First Baptist Church with 10 members present. President Beth Boxley presided over the meeting.

It was reported that Alice Mason, Maureen Funk, Glenda Homedale and Kim Palmer recently traveled to Arrow Rock, dined at Catalpa and attended the production The Addams Family at Lyceum Theatre.

Transportation and cookies will be provided for the children’s theater workshop during the week of July 24-28. The performance Bots will be held July 29 at the Mercer school.

Hostess Harlene Dougan gave the program on the Declaration of Independence and served delicious refreshments.

The next meeting will be Aug. 7 with Beth Boxley as hostess.

Cainsville

MELANIE CHANEY

Sandy and Wendell Willis went to the drag races at Bethany on July 15 to watch nephew, Justin Parkhurst, race and get 1st place in his class. Afterwards, their great nephew Colt Parkhurst went home with them and spent Saturday and Sunday nights with them.

There will be a memorial service for Jerry Stallsworth on Thursday, July 20 at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Cainsville.

The following is a list of winners from some of the events at the 16th annual Cainsville July 4th celebration.

Parade winners: motorcycles - 1. Mason Cain. 4-wheelers - 1. Taryn and Tayley Johnson; 2. Karlee Crouse and Mazey Crouse; 3. Isabella Claycomb and Sierra Renner. Floats - 1. Cainsville FFA; 2 - Vacation Bible school. Horses - 1. Teagan Boswell and Mike Cain; 2. Thad and Mandi Zerbe; 3 - Michelle Boswell and Stephanie Boswell. Bicycles - 1. Maudy Hutton; 2. Jayden Bain and Braden Ormsby. Side-by-side - 1. Thompson family; 2. Ethan and Penny Cornelson. Tractors - 1. Air Force tractors (Jesse Rumley, Nick Martin and Tiffany Peck and Bill Rumley); 2. Bill Bain; 3. Brad and Boyd Chandler.

Cornhole tournament winners were: 1. Cody Crouse and Jarrett Crouse; 2. Austin Vandivert and Kyle Wilson; 3. Grady McLain and Chris McLain.

Horseshoe tournament winners were: 1. Jason Bain and Shannon McLain; 2. Jordon Crouse and Cody Crouse; 3. Nick Booth and Wendell Willis.

Scavenger hunt winners were Aspen Zerbe, Sloane McLain, Erin Holt, Kevin Holt and Makayla. Super Farmer winners were: 1. Ryan Deskins and Austin Vandivert; 2. Dylan Pottorff and Clinton McLain; 3r. Barb McLain and Takaya.

Car show winners: Drag car - 1. Chris Gilpatrick; 2. Roland Gilpatrick; 3. Brad Chandler. Miscellaneous - 1. Mike Gilford; 2. Steven Braden; 3. Kodie Smith. Off-road - 1. Billy Osmond; 2. Billy Robertson; 3. Jason Orndorff. Tractors - 1. Bill Bain; 2. John Francis; 3. Boyd Chandler. Trucks1. Billy Fisher; 2. Doug Kellner; 3. James West. Modified 1960 to present - 1. Larry and Kim Gibson; 2. Jesse Stark; 3. Casey Hamilton. Original pickup - 1. Bob Richard. Pre-1960 stock - 1. Monte Baker; 2. Don Saffell; 3. David Dennis. Best of other - Bill Bain, 1954 Super MTA Farmall tractor. Best of show - Billy Fisher, 1956 Ford F-150. Best GM - Doug Kellner, 1957 3100 Chevy. Best Ford - Larry and Kim Gibson, 1965 Mercury Comet Caliente. Best Mopar and kids’ choice - Bob Prichard 1950 Dodge D-100.

I have a correction from last week’s news. John Francis won the light bar not John Thomas.

Colton and Leigh Nelson and children visited with Kenny and Barb McLain on Friday, July 14.

Recent guests of Lila McLain were Sierra, Kaylynn, McKinley and Berkeley Wolf of Maysville; Morgan McLain of Lenexa Kan.; Walker Thomas of Kansas City, Mo.; and Ronda Pash, Page Eads, and Kaynand Randall Thomas of Bethany.

A good crowd attended Community Vacation Bible School at the Christian Church last week. Approximately 22 children were in attendance every night along with several adults.

I appreciate all the news; please send me some for next week!

TIGERS! CARDINALS!

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

COmmissiOn MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION

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

Monday, July 10

• Minutes of the June 26 meeting were approved.

• Bills were approved and paid.

• Time sheets and the June 30 payroll were approved.

• Commissioners approved readopting the county’s Code of Ethics, and signed the document.

• County Clerk Judy Hamilton, Public Administrator Kelli Judd, and Assessor Dana Widner presented fees collected during June.

• Road & Bridge supervisor Shawn Powell presented mileage dated June 8-July 6.

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

• Commissioners received the 2023 notice of assessed valuation from Hamilton. It’s a total of $89,199,116, compared to $91,878,461, a decrease of $2,679,345. She also presented Aggregate Abstract Form 11 which has been submitted to the State Tax Commission.

• Commissioners received the treasurer’s monthly balance sheet, dated June 30, and balance of delinquent taxes from Collector/Treasurer Susan Moore, verified by Hamilton. Hamilton also presented the revenue and expenditure reports and the balance of protested taxes.

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

*$2,205 to the postmaster (money taken from Treasurer’s Maintenance Fund #34);

*$311.90 Tiger Commissary Services (money taken from Jail Commissary Fund #49);

*$95.10 to GRM Networks for the phone bill (money taken from Treasurer’s Maintenance Fund #34);

*$42 to Grundy Electric Cooperative Inc. for Lindley Township utilities (money taken from Lindley Township Fund #43); and

*$40.56 to General Revenue for half of the Xerox lease (money taken from Recorder’s Special Fund #06).

• The county received the June sales tax and user tax report from the Department of Revenue, for the county’s use as of July 7.

R-5 board works fast, employs staff

Two teachers hired for 2023-24 PRESTON COLE

Princeton Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON It took a mere nine minutes for the Princeton R-5 Board of Education to handle items during the portion of its Monday, June 10 meeting that was open to the public.

All seven members were present, and they approved all but one policy update that was presented.

Superintendent Jerry Girdner recommended the board not adopt the establishment of a “behavorial risk assessment team” following a report of violent behavior. The district already has such a system in place, and Girdner said the district’s attorney advised him to recommend the board to not adopt the policy.

Closed session actions

The board held a scheduled closed session for personnel matters, and made announcements about the actions taken.

First, the board accepted the resignation of elementary paraprofessional Danette Snapp. She and her husband Chad have their house in Princeton up for sale, and are planning to move out of the area.

Rafaela Johnson was hired as an elementary paraprofessiona.

Payton Goodin was employed as the grades 7-12 business and technology instructor, replacing Heather Hall in the position. Hall is replacing Dr. Kristin Henke as 7-12 counselor.

Goodin was also hired as the junior high assistant softball coach.

Maja (pronounced “my-uh”)

McClarnon was employed to fill the vacancy as elementary Title I

teacher, replacing Danessa Stout.

Other actions

• The board accepted the only bid received for gasoline and diesel fuel, from the Princeton MFA Oil bulk plant. The district will be paying two cents below the posted pump price for fuel.

Girdner said he received no bids for dairy and bread items, but added the companies that currently provide those items - Sara Lee, bread; Prairie Farms, dairy - will continue to provide them.

• A review and approval of 202324 student and staff handbooks was tabled. A special meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 24 at 5:30 p.m. for that item.

• The annual tax levy meeting will be held Monday, Aug. 14 at 5:15 p.m. The regular August meeting will follow at 5:30.

Tiger FB holding camps next week

Special to the Post-Telegraph

PRINCETON The Princeton Tiger coaching staff will be holding a free football camp July 24-27 for all interested Princeton, Mercer and Newtown-Harris students entering grades 7-12.

Camp will be held at the practice field and will run from 6-8 p.m. Junior high athletes will be pad-free all

week focusing on fundamentals and learning the basics of the playbook while the varsity athletes will be building towards the Albany team camp on Friday, July 28. That camp is an all-day competitive camp and the cost is $15. More details for that camp can be picked up at summer weights or by contacting varsity head coach Nathan Powell.

MERCER COUNTY 4-DAY WEATHER

National Weather Service, Pleasant Hill/Kansas City, Time of forecast: Monday, July 17, 10 a.m.

Thursday, July 20: Sunny; 87/64

Friday, July 21: Sunny; 84/63

Saturday, July 22: Sunny; 86/64

Sunday,

DIVISION II CIRCUIT COURT

Judge Matthew Krohn

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

Wednesday, July 5

• State vs. Katelan Marie Chase. Chillicothe: Chase did not make her initial appearance for Class D misdemeanor exceeded posted speed limit by 20-25 mph. She called the circuit clerk’s office and said she didn’t have a ride, and wanted to plead guilty without appearance. She was advised to call back later in the day.

She did so, and said she wanted to plead guilty and pay any fine and costs through her bond. She requested a continuance, and cause was continued to July 18 at 9 a.m. for disposition. A guilty plea and waiver of counsel was mailed to her, and a stamped, self-addressed envelope was also mailed.

• State vs. Brandon Rairden, Bethany: Rairden appeared on charges of Class E felony damage to jail or jail property, and Class A misdemeanor fourth-degree assault pursuant to Section 565.056(6) (special victims). The case was continued to July 12 at 11:45 a.m. for a preliminary. He requested bond modification, but the request was denied. He was granted another bond hearing on July 12.

• State vs. Ray Frank Lewis, Princeton: Lewis appeared for a probation violation hearing for his 2021 convictions for Class A misdemeanor driving while suspended or revoked (second or third offense), and misdemeanor owner operated motor vehicle without insurance (second or subsequent offense. He requested a continuance, and finding good cause, the Court granted the request to July 12 at 11:30 a.m.

• State vs. Carlos Arnulfo Valle Moreno, Mercer: Moreno appeared for a probation violation hearing for his conviction for Class B misdemeanor posted speed limit by 26 mph or more. He admitted violating one condition of probation, and provation was revoked. He was ordered to pay a $250 fine, and an appearance was set for

Aug. 15 at 9 a.m.

Moreno also appeared for arraignment for Class C misdemeanor exceeded posted speed limit by 16-19 mph. He was of advised of his right to counsel, and waived that right, and also waived arraignment. He entered a plea of guilty, and was ordered to pay a $250 fine plus $71.50 by Aug. 15. An appearance was set for that date at 9 a.m.

• State vs. Afia Jean Rambo-Wilson, Columbus, Ohio: Rambo-Wilson appeared for a preliminary hearing for two counts Class D felony possession of a controlled substance. He waived the preliminary hearing, and was bound over to Division I on July 9 at 9 a.m. His bond was continued as previously ordered, and he was remanded to the custody of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.

Editor’s note: These cases were received after those published last week were picked up, prepared for publication, and proofread.

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MCHD holds 5K during the Mercer County Fair

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, July 24: Philly cheesesteak (with peppers, onions and cheese) on hoagie, tater

tots, applesauce.

Tuesday, July 25: fish, hush puppies, macaroni and cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, peaches.

Wednesday, July 26: chicken strips or livers, mashed potatoes with gravy. creamed peas, sliced bread, pineapple, magic cookie bars.

Thursday, July 27:

spaghetti with meat sauce, side salad (lettuce, onion, cheese, cucumbers, croutons), garlic cheddar biscuit, mixed vegetables, grapes.

Friday, July 28: pit ham, baked sweet potato, broccoli with cheese, croissant, blueberry crisp, vanilla ice cream, assorted fruit.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

The Mercer County Health Department held a 5K run last Wednesday, July 12. Winners, from left: Amy Dixon, age 30-45 women; Rick Phillips, age 60+ men; Colter, Hamilton, age 10-15 boys; Amelia Lopez, age 15-25 women; Toni Powell, age 50-60 women; Debbie Morin, age 60+ women; Kaylen Sticken, girls’ fun run; Ethan Sticken, age 16-35 men; and Jackson Sticken, boys’ fun run.

“Why I’m leaving Princeton First Baptist”

To the wonderful people of Mercer County, As you may have heard by now, I have resigned from First Baptist Church of Princeton. Sunday, July 9 was my last day in the pulpit. In an effort to quash any rumors about the why of this move, I wanted to have you hear from me exactly what the motivation is.

God spoke! He has been speaking for almost 16 months. I have delayed my obedience because I thought I had a better plan. He told me last year that our season in Princeton was ending and that I needed to prepare for what He had next for Jennifer and me. I have spent all of this time attempting to negotiate with God and trying to appease Him without actually obeying Him.

Some people have speculated that I am leaving because the church’s finances are in decline. Nope. Others have said that they heard I was leaving because of declining attendance numbers. Not that, either. I have heard some say that I am leaving because of hurt feelings. Not even close. The best one yet is that I am leaving because I am being forced out. Not true. I am leaving because I have come to the place where I must obey! I cannot preach about faith and sacrificial obedience and not be willing to live it.

God challenged me by telling me to “get out of the boat and trust me,” and that is what I am doing. I do not have a destination, nor do I have a job that I am going to. What I do have is faith - faith that God will keep His word. Faith that God will provide. Faith that He is going to work all things out for my good and His glory.

God sent us here almost seven years ago with a simple command, “Love my people.” We have endeavored to do just that. Hopefully, FBC Princeton, Mercer County, Serve Mercer County, and this region have all been impacted positively because God sent us here.

In closing, I want to thank all of you for receiving, loving, and praying for our family as we have served among you. Please continue to pray for us as we continue to pray for you.

In His Service, Pastor Abner Neill

Scoreboard

trict will be working with teachers who are not fully certified, and monitor progress toward their certification. Facebook was added to Goal 4 as a means of communication.

From Page 1 holding a silent auction to sell items deemed as surplus. A time for persons to look at the items will be advertised. Items that don’t sell will be disposed of. Hall is to talk with some local patrons who take scrap.

Handbooks will be presented during the Aug. 14 meeting. Board members want to make sure that the handbooks say faculty and staff are to use the Remind app to communicate with students. Also, faculty and staff are not to respond to negative to social media comments that are negative to topics related to school.

• The tax rate hearing was set for 5:55 p.m. on Aug. 14. The regular meeting will follow at 6.

• The bid from Prairie Farms to provide dairy items was approved. Prices will change from time to time because of an escalator clause.

• An increase in student lunch prices by 25 cents, to $2.50 for grades PK-6 and $2.75 for K-12. Bomgardner worked with a representative from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and was told student lunch prices needed to be raised.

• The district will be

• The board accepted a bid from Nevco Sports for a new wireless scoreboard for the softball field. The bid was $7,947.45.

After the old “crow’s nest” was torn down Hall is advertising for a bid request to build a small deck to wrap around the backstop, connecting to the current deck.

• In his report, Hall said a boiler leak had been found under the floor in the art room. Recently retired maintenance director Brian Persell will be fixing the leak.

The Mercer County Area Development Corporation (MCADC) has voted to move the old Jackson house, north of the preschool building. The group anticipates moving the house in mid-September. Hall said there’s a chance school will not be held that day because electric lines will be down.

Hall said that during his meeting with staff, he told them that if they want to help supervise during extracurricular events to send him an email.

He also said he’ll be looking at weight room equipment to see what needs to be disposed, and perform some reorgization.

• Huse had nothing to report.

• It was noted that board president Ervin Taff won’t be able to attend the August meeting.

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

Mercer school bus drivers compete

SUBMITTED PHOTO

The Mercer school’s transportation department competed in the Missouri State School Bus Safety Competition, at the Lake of the Ozarks on June 22-23. They competed in pre-trip, written tests and driving competitions. During the awards, the team of Richard Jones (from left), Kerri Jincks and Max Siemer brought home a fifth-place trophy, and the team finished seventh overall.

DIVISION I CIRCUIT COURT

Judge Steven 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.

Wednesday, July 12

• Peter Hayse et al, Maryville, vs. Scott, dba Hawk Outfitters, Princeton: Plaintiffs in the case, nor their attorney, appeared. Defendant appeared in person and by his attorney. Defendant’s motion for interlocutory judgment was taken up, along with defendant’s counterclaim for damages. Evidence was heard, and an interlocutory judgment was entered. Defendant’s attorney is to file a proposed judgment on counterclaim for damages.

• Richard Schrader et al, Pleasantville, Iowa, vs. Kelly Enterprises Inc. et al, Mercer: Plaintiffs in the case, and their attorney appeared. Defendants did not appear. Guardian ad litem Tara Walker appeared. Evidence was adduced, and the Court found for the plaintiffs. A judgment for a quiet title was entered. Walker is to receive a $200 guardian ad litem fee.

• State vs. Jessica Rae Claycomb-Beltz, Vandalia: Claycomb-Beltz did not appear for arraignment on two Class D felony charges of first-degree tampering with a motor vehicle. Her attorney was present, and told the Court his client is incarcerated in Nebraska. On the state’s motion, cause continued to Aug. 9 at 9 a.m. She was remanded to custody.

• State vs. Donnie E. Gannon, Princeton: Gannon appeared for a plea or trial setting on a Class E felony charge of driving while intoxicated (persistent offender), and Class A misdemeanor charges of driving while revoked or suspended (second or third offense), second-degree property damage (law enforcement or relative), and operated a motor vehicle in a careless and imprudent driving, involving and accident). At his request, cause continued to Aug. 9 at 9 a.m. for a plea or trial setting. The state requested there be no more continuances. Bond was continued.

• State vs. Carter Graham, Mercer: Graham appeared on a charge of Class E felony unlawful use of a weapon (exhibiting), and Class B misdemeanor charges of operated a motor ve-

hicle in a careless and imprudent manner, and peace disturbance (first offense). At his request, cause continued to Aug. 9 at 9 a.m. for a status review.

Graham’s request for bond modification was denied. The state requested a five-day notice to contact victim(s). Graham was remanded to custody.

• State vs. Lindsay D. Hall, Bethany (Harrison County Jail): Hall appeared for arraignment on charges of Class C felony delivered controlled substance except 35 grams less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid, Class D felony possession of a controlled substance, and Class D misdemeanor unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

At her request, cause continued to Aug. 9 at 9 a.m. due to an attorney conflict, and for arraignment. She was remanded to custody.

• State vs. Ivy J. Ormsby, Princeton: Ormsby appeared for a plea or trial setting for Class D felony delivery or possession of a controlled substance at a county or private jail or correctional center, except with a prescription. At her request, cause continute to Aug. 9 at 10 a.m. for a plea or trial setting. Bond was continued.

In a separate case, Ormsby appeared for a plea or trial setting on three Class D felony charges of possession of a controlled substance except 35 grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid, and Class D misdemeanor unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

At her request, cause continued to Aug. 9 at 10 a.m. for a motion to

suppress hearing. Bond was continued.

• State vs. Ian Michael Ragsdale, St. Joseph: Ragsdale appeared for a plea or trial setting on two Class D felony charges of first-degree tampering with a motor vehicle. The case was set for a two-day jury trial on Oct. 4-5 at 9 a.m., with a pre-trial conference set for Sept. 6 at 10:30 a.m. His request for a change of venue was denied because the request was made out of time. Bond was continued.

• State vs. Trey Ryan Schooler, Princeton: Schooler appeard for a plea or trial setting on two Class D felony charges of second-degree assault. The case was set for a two-day jury trial on Nov. 29-30 at 9 a.m., with a pre-trial conference set for Nov. 8 at 10 a.m. He was remanded to custody.

In a separate case, Schooler appeared on charges of Class D felony unlawful possession of a firearm and Class E felony damage to jail or jail property. At his request, cause continued to Aug. 9 at 9 a.m. for a plea or trial setting. He was remanded to custody.

• State vs. Dakoda Dale Wright, Cainsville: Wright appeared on charges in two cases. One case involves charges of Class D felony second-degree burglary, and Class D misdemeanor stealing (value less than $150 and no prior stealing offense). The other case involves Class D felony charges of first-degree tampering with a motor vehicle and receiving stolen property. At his request, cause continued to Dec. 13 at 9 a.m. for a plea

or trial setting. He was remanded to custody.

• State vs. Ray Frank Lewis, Princeton: Lewis appeared for a plea or trial setting on Class E felony charges of unlawful use of a weapon (exhibiting), and unlawful use of a weapon (possessed weapon and a felony controlled substance, Class D felony possession of a controlled substance, and two Class A misdemeanor charges of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. The case was set for a three-day jury trial on Sept. 27-29 at 9 a.m., with a pre-trial conference set for Sept. 6 at 10 a.m. He was remanded to custody.

• State vs. Leon Curtis Nobles, Kansas City: Nobles appeared for a probation violation hearing involving his 2019 conviction on eight counts of Class D felony forgery. At his request, cause continued to Aug. 9 at 9 a.m. for a plea or trial setting.

• State vs. Jimmy L. Taylor, Verona: Taylor appeared for a criminal motion hearing for Class D felony tampering with a motor vehicle. At his request, cause continued to Aug. 9 at 9 a.m. for setting. He was remanded to custody.

• State vs. Shelley L. Service, Chillicothe: Service appeared for a docket hearing on a Class D felony charge of abuse or neglect of a child (no sexual contact). She withdrew a previous plea of not guilty and entered a plea of guilty. She was sentenced to two years in the Department of Corrections, to run concurrently with a sentence in Livingston County. She was given credit for 152 days in jail while await-

ing disposition. Costs were assessed to Service. She was remanded to custody.

LAND TRANSFERS

Friday, July 7

• Princeton First Baptist Church to Margaret Brown.

• Margaret R. Brown to Donovan Allen et al.

• Laura J. Herrick et al to Timothy L. Livingston.

• Paul J. Ryan to Ryan Farms III LLC.

• Ryan Lunch to Stan West II.

Monday, July 10

• Frederick M. Hanish, trustee, to Jared Mayberry et al.

Wednesday, July 12

• Keith William Weaver to KRW5 Irrevocable Trust.

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, July 24: Philly cheesesteak (with peppers, onions and cheese) on hoagie, tater tots, applesauce.

Tuesday, July 25: fish, hush puppies, macaroni and cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, peaches.

Wednesday, July 26: chicken strips or livers, mashed potatoes with gravy. creamed peas, sliced bread, pineapple, magic cookie bars.

Thursday, July 27: spaghetti with meat sauce, side salad (lettuce, onion, cheese, cucumbers, croutons), garlic cheddar biscuit, mixed vegetables, grapes.

Friday, July 28: pit ham, baked sweet potato, broccoli with cheese, croissant, blueberry crisp, vanilla ice cream, assorted fruit.

MERCER CO. FOOD PANTRY

Located in the basement of Princeton United Methodist Church.

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

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

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

ADVERTISE in the Princeton Post-Telegraph today!

Who’ll hold lawmakers accountable for violating Missouri’s Constitution?

PAUL HAMBY

Special to the Post-Telegraph

MAYSVILLE, Mo. On

Thursday. July 7, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson signed 31 bills into law and vetoed one.

Parson vetoed SB189. The original purpose of SB189 was relating to K9 dogs: “This act provides that the offense of assault on a law enforcement animal is a Class A misdemeanor, if the law enforcement animal is not injured to the point of requiring veterinary care or treatment; a Class E felony if the law enforcement animal is seriously injured to the point of requiring veterinary care or treatment; a Class D felony if the assault result in the death of such animal.”

In the frenzy of trying to get legislation passed at the end of session, amendments were added covering a variety of subjects. The stated purpose of SB189 was changed to a broad net “relating to the professions requiring licensure.” With the change from the original purpose, the following topics were added to the bill: office of child advocate; fees to Highway Patrol; missing children; Missouri rap back program; court fees for service of process; sheriff’s retirement fund; telecommunicator first responders; emergency medical services; residency requirements for City of St. Louis police officers and public safety; compensation for peace officers; public safety sales taxes; emergency medical dispatchers; emergency medical technicians; sales tax for emergency services; emergency telephone service charges; peer support counseling programs; first responders administering naloxone; background checks for marijuana facilities; child placement; voluntary critical illness benefits pool; back the blue license plates; qualifica-

LIBERTY THOUGHTS

tions of fire protection employees; fire protection sales tax; financial institutions; scrap yards; bail; credit for time served; offense of stealing; firearms in schools; offense of tampering with a judicial officer; offense of interference with transportation of livestock; offense of distribution of a drug masking product; fentanyl testing; chief of police training; peace officer basic training; disciplinary procedures for peace officers; peace officer tuition reimbursement; electronic notification to victims of certain crimes; closed records; and personal documents for exonerees.

With all the additions, SB189 passed during the last two days of the legislative session. How many legislators who voted for this bill actually read the entire final version?

Gov. Parson, a former county sheriff, cited concerns about sections of SB189 that he disagreed with. However he missed the most important reason to veto the bill. It violated Missouri Constitution, Article III, Section 21: “no bill shall be so amended in its passage through either house as to change its original pur-

For the love of dogs?

pose” and Section 23: “No bill shall contain more than one subject which shall be clearly expressed in its title.” Most of the additions listed above are clearly different from the original purpose of the bill.

Each one of the additions above may or may not have merit. Each idea aka proposed new law should go through the legislative process independently with committee hearings, consultations with both citizens and experts in the subject to be vetted, amended, and made aware to the public what new law is being proposed. The drafters of the Missouri Constitution understood how important this concept is, so they put it in writing.

But for some Missouri lawmakers, they do not believe they must follow the rules they are sworn to follow when making new laws. Yet they expect the citizens to follow those new laws or you just might be guilty of a felony and lose your right to vote and own a firearm.

Who will hold the lawmakers accountable for violating the Missouri Constitution?

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

A recruitment agency had to take down its internet want ad that read: “Our returning client is seeking an exceptional and highly experienced Dog Nanny to provide top-tier care for their two beloved dogs. They are truly looking for someone at the top of their field who can ensure the overall well-being, happiness, and safety of their dogs.” The agency said it was overwhelmed by applicants. Perhaps it was because there are too many dog lovers out there. Or, maybe, it was that applicants were moved by the offer of the tidy sum of $127,000 a year.

CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS

The Princeton PostTelegraph strives for accuracy and fairness in all of its news stories and photo captions. If you feel we have made an error, please contact us at 660-7483266 or posttele@grm. net (email) to request a correction. If it is found we are in error, we will be happy to publish a correction or clarification.

Life coaching is needed everywhere

DR. GLENN MOLLETTE

Special to the Post-Telegraph NEWBURGH, Ind. What is next for you? Are you making plans for furthering your education?

Are you interviewing for employment? Are you debating about your career path? What type of occupation will be fulfilling and pay the salary you want to earn? Possibly you are making plans to get married? You may be wondering about the best strategies for buying a house or saving for retirement.

Consider talking to people who are doing what you want to do.

Life coaching and mentoring are sadly missing today. It’s missing in our schools, churches and even worse, our families. Young people are desperate for the wisdom of senior Americans but most of the time think they know everything. We all thought we knew everything when we were young. Looking back, we now realize how little we

MOLLETTE

really knew.

Throughout life we are typically stuck with figuring it out by ourselves. We made the choice to make our own decisions. When we make our own decisions then we can’t blame anybody but ourselves. However, education is expensive. Learning the hard way is never fun. You have heard people say, “Let him figure it out. He’ll learn.” This is typically true, but if your grandchild is about to pick up a poisonous snake, would you just stand back and let the child learn? Would you not care enough to snatch the child away from the snake? Of course, you would save your child. You can’t save everybody, but when you can, then why not do what you hope someone would do for you?

If you consider yourself a young adult then you need to interview some

older people. You need to ask questions about their vocations, businesses, and whatever path they have walked. How did they do what they have done? What would they do over? What would they never do again? What would be their advice to you about life in general, money, marriage, faith, church, raising kids and anything else. You might be surprised at what you will learn.

Most older people think no one wants to hear their opinion and too often it’s true. Sadly, years of life experiences, worth more than money could ever buy, are never utilized. Every high school and church should have an occasional life coaching day. A day when some of the community sages are invited to sit and field questions from small groups and even talk one on one.

See Life coaching, Page 8

OBITUARIES

David Jones

Salem, Mo.

David Rex Jones was born in Princeton, Mo., on January 15, 1957 and passed away on July 6, 2023 at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis, Ind., with his wife, Roma, by his side at the age of 66 years, 5 months, and 21 days.

David was baptized as a boy at Freedom Baptist Church in rural Princeton.

He graduated from Princeton High School with the class of 1975. He obtained a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness from Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville in 1979. Upon graduation, he worked for Central Soya, Allis-Chalmers and Midas Muffler before owning an A&W restaurant in Emmetsburg, Iowa.

He went back to Northwest Missouri State University in the late 80s and graduated in 1990 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He spent the rest of his working days driving a truck, which allowed him to see much of the U.S. and ignited his love of travel. He spent the last twenty years driving for Tyson Foods.

David married Roma Nelson Beeson on March 24, 2002 in Salem, Mo.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Orville Lee and Julia Evelyn (Taylor) Jones, and grandsons Noah William Jones and Luke Richard Jones.

Survivors include his wife Roma of the home; sons Mark (Lindsey) Jones and Mikel (Megan) Jones of Emmetsburg, Iowa, and Blake (Kaleigh) Beeson of Rogersville, Mo.; daughters Melissa (Scott) Thilges of Algona, Iowa, and Brooke Beeson of Maryland Heights, Mo.; grandchildren Natalie, Jillian and Savanna Jones, Lucy and Louis Jones, Sean, Molly and Mica Thilges, and Harper Beeson; brothers Wayne (Martina) Bacon of Platte City, Mo., and Fred Bacon and Brad Jones of Osceola, Iowa; brother-in-law Robert (Mari) Nelson of Winston, Mo.; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A visitation was held on Thursday, July 13 at Salem United Methodist Church in Salem, Mo.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the backpack program at the Salem United Methodist Church.

Clara Neill

Princeton, Mo.

Clara Luella (Hamilton) Neill, age 87 of Princeton, Mo., went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 with her children by her side.

She was born on June 3, 1936 at home in the Modena, Mo., community, north of Wild Cemetery, the fifth of five children of Arthur Burl and Vera Gladys (Hickman) Hamilton. She went to the Hamilton School, a oneroom school house, for the first eight years then graduated from Princeton R-5 High School. She married Raymon Eugene Neill on December 16, 1955, and they resided in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where she worked at Collins Radio and was a homemaker until 1968, at which time they moved to the farm where Raymon was born and raised in Modena.

She was a diversified farm wife who loved to cook, bake, sew, quilt, tend her vegetable gardens and can the harvest, and helped with running the farm. Clara was known for her amazing pies, cakes and cinnamon rolls, and loved to cook for her family. She also cleaned houses for several different families in and around Mercer County and worked at the glove factory. She loved the Lord and was very active in the church and community where ever she lived and was a member of the We Help You Help Club, later renamed the Modena Community Club, and was presiding president of the club from 1972-1973. She was loved by her family as well as many friends that she made over her 87 years on this earth.

Clara was preceded in death by her husband Raymon “R.E.” Neill; parents Arthur Burl and Vera Gladys Hamilton; siblings Cletus Hamilton, Vera (Hamilton) and Earl

Clark, Alba Jean (Hamilton) and Robert Boyd; and sister-in-law Willa Hamilton; in-laws Byron Allen and Ona (Hickman) Neill, Hubert Neill, Twilia (Neill) and Maurice Dorland, William and Harriet Neill, Louree (Neill) and Jack Bennet, Cecil Nadine (Neill) and Mike Moore; sister-inlaw Patricia (Patsy) Neill; niece Lyndell Eileen (Dorland) and Norman Bade; nephews Dennis and Faith Neill and James Boyd; and grandson Chris Spease.

Clara is survived by her children Marnita (Neill) (Hickman) and Gary Spease of Princeton, Anita (Neill) and Kurt Sontheimer of Savannah, Mo., and Scott and Tammy Neill of Meadville, Mo.; grandchildren Zachary Hickman of Dallas, Texas, Mace and Stephanie Hickman and Jacob and Shelby Hickman of Princeton, Mo., Garrett and Justine Spease of Kansas City, Kan., Chante’ (Sontheimer) Green of Independence, Mo., Rachelle Sontheimer of Thornton, Colo., Dakato and Rebecca Neill of Meadville, Mo., and Lillian (Neill) and Matt Snethen of Omaha, Neb.; great-grandchildren Zane, Maggie and Molley Hickman of Princeton, Chloe O'Neill Green of Independence, Mo., Payton and Raymon “R.E.” Neill of Meadville, Mo., Louella Mabel “Lu Lu” Snethen of Omaha, Neb., and Samantha Spease of Kansas City, Kan.; brother Dail Hamilton of American Canyon, Calif.; brother-in-law Edwin (Butch) and Lila Neill of Trenton, Mo.; sister-inlaw Betty Neill of Princeton; and many nieces and nephews, family and friends.

Services were held Saturday, July 15 Modena Baptist Church in Modena. Burial was in Salem Cemetery at Mill Grove, Mo.

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In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to Grand Oaks Baptist Assembly in Chillicothe, Mo., to support the camp for children and youth.

Life coaching

From Page 7

You may not always hear what you want to hear. Sometimes the truth is surprising. Always keep in mind that the truth will set you free. Proverbs 19:20 says, “Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.”

Keep in mind that advice giving should always be done in love and gentleness.

Dr. Glenn Mollette is a graduate of numerous schools, including Georgetown College, Southern Seminary and Lexington Seminary, all in Kentucky. He is the author of 13 books, and his column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.

To celebrate 103rd

birthday

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Ethlyn O. McCleave, born in Princeton in 1918, turns 103 years old on July 21. She was a longtime civil servant and community activist in the North Kansas City area who was married to Earl E. McCleave (d. 2015) for 75 years. She has one daughter, three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She still lives at home at 3607 N.E. 62nd Terrace, in Gladstone, where she would be delighted to receive cards or visitors. She celebrated with her Grace Baptist Church community on July 16, and will celebrate with her extended family at home this weekend.