Trenton Republican-Times_6-13-2024

REPUBLICAN-TIMES

“GOD BLESS AMERICA” Established Sept. 4, 1864 - 160th Year - No. 41

Council Discusses Wage Scale

4-3 Vote Passes Wage Scale

By Mark McLaughlin R-T Staff Writer

The Trenton City Council took on a weighty, red-meat agenda in Monday night’s regular session held at the City Council chamber.

In attendance were Mayor Soptic, City Administrator Ron Urton, City Attorney Kenton Kinney, City Clerk Cindy Simpson, and Council members Tim Meinecke, David Mlika, Duane Uriich, John Dolan, Lou Fischer, Glenn Briggs and Marvin Humphreys. Councilman Calvin Brown was absent.

Following the approval of minutes and bills, the Council moved into a final discussion of the Wage Scale/Years of Service pay scale, which has seen multiple revisions and required a lot of discussion between the Mayor, and members of city departments, most importantly, City Hall and the Electric Department.

Opened to discussion, Councilman Mlika inquired as to why the City Clerk and Comptroller of TMU were listed on different lines of the scale, when both appeared to have parallel duties in managing the finances of the two entities.

It was learned that this, and the apparent disconnect with City Hall and Electric Department employees went back to a 2011

attempt at a scale, voted down by the Council, that was used to “provide guidance” for pay levels, a detail unknown to Soptic or Urton until it was studied.

Urton noted that 10-changes were made to the scale, primarily to address the concern that the original draft of the scale would place numerous workers in a position of having to work several years to get the first pay increase.

It was determined that everyone in both City and TMU structures would receive an initial pay bump and then be on a two-year cycle for review after that. The difference will amount to an increase of roughly $78,000 total in new pay for City employees and $111,000 in new increases for TMU workers.

Councilman Glenn Briggs asked the question, “Can we afford this?” Urton responded that the City had had several years of budget surpluses, and Councilman Meinecke reminded the group that the scale was not a contract, but an “intent” to move forward with this as a model.

To a question about council options going forward, Soptic said,”the council could choose to freeze salaries at the current level, reduce them, or increase them, based on revenues available at the time.”

[See COUNCIL , Page 2]

The Trenton Rotary Club made a $1,532 donation to the Bright Futures Trenton shoe project during its meeting on June 6. The money was raised as part of the club’s Shoes for Orphan Souls project held earlier this year. Shoe chairman Diane Lowrey, left, presented a check to Adrienne Todd, center, who coordinates the Bright Futures shoe project. Also pictured is Rotary Club Past President Brian Upton. Submitted by Dianne Lowrey

NCMC Finacial Aid Director Elected

Kristi Harris NCMC Chief of Staff North Central Missouri College’s Financial Aid Director Kimberly Meeker was recently elected President-Elect of the Missouri Association of Student Financial Aid Personnel (MASFAP). She will serve as president-elect this year and then move into the presidency. This is a three-year term, during which she will serve as president-elect in 2025, president in 2026, and past president in 2027.

Kimberly said, “I am honored to have been nominated and elected to serve as the 2025 PresidentElect for the Missouri Association of Student Financial Aid Personnel (MASFAP).

While I have served in numerous roles on the MASFAP executive board in the past, I am eager for the opportunity to serve in this new role, alongside respected colleagues, continuing efforts to improve post-secondary education funding and affordability through advocacy and outreach.”

MASFAP is a leading professional organization for financial aid administrators and advocacy. For over 50 years, it has strived to improve post-secondary education funding and provide updates, training, and education to its members. Members are experts in all facets of financial aid and can network and form a

strong alliance of professionals (www.masfap.org).

Dr. Kristen Alley, NCMC Vice President of Student Affairs, said, “The Missouri Association of Student Financial Aid Personnel (MASFAP)

has a lengthy history of being the premiere financial aid association in the state. They have done an excellent job at providing advocacy, professional development, and education on

[See NCMC, Page 11]

Rotary Donates to Annual Project

The healthcare navigator program provided by Preferred Family Healthcare was the topic of a program presented at the Thursday, June 6 meeting of the Trenton Rotary Club, held at the BTC Bank community room. Brian Upton presided at the meeting, Joe MacDonald gave the prayer and Martha Goedert was the sergeant at arms.

Program chairman Steve Taylor introduced Kristi Faulkner, who is the supervisor of the healthcare navigator program, which assists clients with paperwork required to receive certain state and federal services such as Medicaid, SSI benefits, etc.

Ms. Faulkner said that because applications for many of the programs are now done online, many individuals have difficulty in filling out paperwork, which is where the Preferred Family

program comes in. As a former state employee who helped individuals when many of the services were offered in person, Ms. Falkner said she suggested Preferred Family offer such a service for its clients. The program began initially at the Trenton location, but has since been expanded to include other Preferred Family sites statewide. There are currently 4 individuals who work in the local office, but provide the serve at the other sites. The Kirksville location has its own healthcare navigators.

[See ROTARY, Page 11]

Check out the Farmer’s Market at Sesquicentennial Park Saturday morning from 8 - 12.

Old Glory flying at Five Points

Kimberly Meeker, MASFAP President-Elect

LOCAL

NCMC Closed June 19

North Central Missouri College will be closed on Wednesday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth. This closing includes all buildings and offices at Main, Barton, and Savannah locations, and no classes will be held. The Ketcham Community Center will be open for regular summer hours. NCMC will reopen on Thursday, June 20, for regular business hours.

The article on page 16 of the Republican-Times in the June 6, 2024 edition featuring the American Sportsman Club included erroneous, incomplete and factually inaccurate information provided by owner Vance Cox. For that reason, the Republican-Times is retracting the article entirely.

It has been learned that Cox’s claim that his club was a not-for-profit entity is false. In a follow-up interview Cox admitted he was not able to secure the non-profit designation and his attorney suggested using an LLC and making members part of his LLC. That calls into question the validity and intent of the remaining part of the article. For that reason, The Republican-Times and staff reporter Mark McLaughlin can not stand by the article and retract it completely. Truth in reporting and our integrity matter and we hope this clears up any confusion.

• FROM FRONT PAGE•

the outside and foundation portions of the building, and the Council agreed that the project should move forward, voting 7-0 to approve the action.

Retraction: COUNCIL

Ordinance number 30 dealt with the Trenton Personnel Manual, specifically Article 1.4 which now includes language establishing a procedure to obtain a limited waiver to the potential of hiring employees who might be supervised by a direct family member. The Council voted 7-0 to approve the measure and to evaluate each hiring on a case by case basis.

Soptic added, “Can we afford not to do this?”, a reference to the need to retain good workers and be competitive with surrounding city and county government agencies who poach from Trenton city and utility work forces.

When the public was asked for comment on the issue, Trenton Fire Department Chief Brandon Gibler reiterated his past position that TFD “was in favor of the pay scale”. Councilman Meinecke added,”The lack of people here to speak on this would indicate that concerns have been resolved.”

When put to a vote, the Council voted 4-3 to approve the scale, with members Meinecke, Urich, Dolan and Briggs in favor, and members Mlika, Fischer and Humphreys opposed.

Ordinance #29, aimed at waterproofing the basement of City Hall, involved a bid from Mid-Continental Restoration, Inc. for up to $12,000 of urethane filler into open spaces in the walls allowing moisture into the basement when heavy rains occur.

Urton noted the Council’s efforts at shoring up

Ordinances numbers 31 and 32 affirmed a Planning and Zoning Board recommendation to deny a zoning change to Jason Lassiter, who had proposed construction of a twenty one unit apartment building on vacant property at the 1801 East 8th Street, near the Eastgate Shopping Center.

The Planning and Zoning Board recommendation to deny Lassiter’s request came down to the lack of room to build such a structure, with the area, zoned B-3 General Business, more conducive to a business construction rather than residential. Both ordinances, to deny the request, passed 7-0.

In New Business, the Council approved appointments of Chris Mingle, Cliff Harris and Mary Peterson to the Park Board on a 7-0 vote, approved the appointment of Becky Meservey, Donna Maloney and Mitch Dougan to the Building and Nuisance Board on a 6-1 vote, with Briggs dissenting, and approved the appointment of Steve Hayman and Cody McCullom to the Airport Board on a 7-0 vote.

Considerable discussion was given to a proposal from Verizon, who rents antennae space on the Water Tower. Verizon currently pays rent for the antennas to the tune of $900 a month to the city, with the amount slated to go up to $1,000 plus per month in January of 2025. After discussion of three options, the Council voted 6-1 with Briggs dissenting to keep the current lease agreement in place, with Urich noting it would net the City more than $60,000 over the next

five years, a contractual obligation of Verizon.

The Council voted 7-0 to accept a bid from Vermeer of Des Moines for the purchase of a new trencher at a cost of $92,500. More than $130,000 had been budgeted for the expense, so the cost reflected a significant savings to the City.

The Council voted 7-0 to approve a bid from SMICO Inc., to provide sewer line CCTV service for $59,000. The service would serve as a preventative “check” of sewer lines to identify issues where and when they occurred, so repairs could be addressed to this. Urton noted that SMICO had already done good work for the city on water and sewer line lining improvements and work at the River Pump station.

The Council approved a bid from Red Rock to perform asbestos inspections and take samples on 7 houses in the City slated for demolition. The rate of $325 per house plus samples was the lowest by half or more from other bids accepted. The Council voted 7-0 to approve this bid.

The Council further moved to accept a bid of $49,000 from Truitt Dirt Work to handle the physical demolition of those houses. Discussion and consideration were given to a bid from Red Rock, and from Perkins, who Urton noted came to do a project in town, and stayed while they were working on it. Councilman Fischer, noting Perkins work on the Grace United Methodist Church demolition, questioned the pace at which Perkins was working. Building Inspector Wes Barone answered Fischer’s concern, noting that Perkins struggle has been getting semi-loads of demo refuse into the landfill. In final action for the night, the Council approved the transfer of a 2007 Ford F-150 pickup from TMU to the Trenton Police Department to be used by the TPD Animal Control officer, replacing a 2002 Ford Ranger overdue for retirement.

Following the conclusion of the regular business meeting, the Council adjourned into executive session to address personnel matters.

Elizabeth Gertrude Parker

Elizabeth Gertrude Parker, age 94, of Laurie, Missouri, passed away June 8, 2024 at Laurie Care Center. She was born July 16, 1929 in Chicago, Illinois, daughter of the late Peter and Kathrine Michels.

On October 8, 1970, she was united in marriage to Walter Joseph Parker, who preceded her in death on February 18, 1996.

Her passion in life was to share the love of Jesus Christ with others. She studied the Hebrew language, culture, and history. Her fondest memory was her trip to Israel in 2010.

She enjoyed spending time sewing clothes for her daughters when they were young, crocheting and knitting projects, drawing and painting, and playing golf with her husband. She was greatly rewarded by giving her time to volunteer for many organizations. Spending time with family gave her great pleasure. She is survived by one brother, Peter Michels, of Peoria, Arizona; children, Kathy Nolke (Greg), Roach, Missouri, Steve

Heinbaugh (Marcia), Neoga, Illinois, Nancy Sanders (Lionel), Windsor, Illinois, Gail Iams (Richard), Murrysville, Pennsylvania, and Ann Ried (Mark), Champaign, Illinois; 11 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband she was preceded in death by her brothers, Nick Michels and Jack Michels and step-children, William Parker and Mary Hobbs.

Elizabeth is being cremated under the direction of Kidwell-Garber Laurie/Sunrise Beach Chapel. Interment will be at a later date with a family service at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.

Donations can be made to Ozark Chapel United Methodist Church, 305 N. Main St. Laurie, Missouri 65037, an Animal Shelter or Food Bank.

Online condolences may be left at www.kidwellgarber.com. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the KidwellGarber Laurie/Sunrise Beach Chapel.

Evelyn Bennett

Mrs. Evelyn Bennett, 82, a resident of Trenton, Missouri died at 2:05 P.M., Friday, June 7, 2024 at her residence.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, June 12, 2024 at Slater-Neal Funeral Home, Trenton, Missouri. Burial will be in Salem Cemetery northwest of Trenton, Missouri.

Family visitation will be held Tuesday from 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home.

Memorials to the Salem Cemetery and they may be left with the funeral home.

Mrs. Bennett was born April 21, 1942 in Spickard, Missouri the daughter of Everett Selby and Hilda Doris Vandevender Lynch. She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Trenton, Missouri.

On September 10, 1977 she was married to Eddie

Bennett at Trenton, Missouri. He preceded her death on November 19, 2014. Her survivors include three daughters Cindy Collins, Eureka, Kansas, Kimberly Hamilton and Teddy, Trenton, Missouri, Tanya Mae Hisel and Kelvin Maggiefield, Trenton, Missouri; three sons David Long and wife Dena, Trenton, Missouri, Robert Long and wife Shelly, Branson, Missouri, Randy Hisel and wife Jennifer, Winston, Missouri; one sister Dollie Boyd and husband Stanley, Chillicothe, Missouri; seventeen grandchildren, several great grandchildren, several great great grandchildren and three nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one sister Shirley Williams and one son-inlaw Larry Lawrence.

OBITUARIES

Rhonda Louise Oyler

Rhoda Louise Oyler of Trenton, Missouri, died June 9, 2024, in Kansas City, Missouri.

She was born 101 years ago during a snowstorm in the Forks of the River near Trenton.

She survived that storm on March 19, 1923, and went on to survive many more of life’s challenges: the Great Depression, six months of wondering if her first husband, William Morris Robinson, was dead or alive while missing in action during World War II - later having him declared dead following his last mission as a tail gunner in Italy, droughts and floods on the farm, taking care of ailing relatives and maybe most of all, dealing with her ornery pup of a little brother, Charles.

They learned to share what little they had. Hobos from the nearby train would beg at their door for a place to sleep or any scrap of food…even clabbered milk. Their mother would always find or create something like a bean sandwich. Rhoda appreciated what God gave her -

Growing up with her Davidson family playing with her brother and their dog, Rex, frying chicken for Sunday dinner with her mother, Bertha, and fishing with her father, Frank. Time spent with neighbors playing cards, a new dress made from a flour sack, a mess of wild mushrooms, onions or berries and a warm fire in winter.

Rhoda and her husband, Clifford, raised their daughter Teresa on a farm in the same area where you would meet neighbors in the middle of the road and stop to visit, sing at church and cook a tailgate meal for the field.

They saw nature’s wonders everyday at home and trav eled to 49 states, Canada and Mexico to see a few more.

Rhoda had fond memories of her friends from Trenton schools and Chillicothe Business College where she was a homecoming attendant, jobs in Kansas City and Trenton,

The V.F. W. Ladies Auxiliary, and Salem and First Baptist churches.

Her daughter, Teresa Oyler of Trenton survives. Her husband, Clifford Verne Oyler; father, Frank Davidson; mother, Bertha Lee Hein Davidson; and brother, Charles Hein Davidson preceded her in death.

Rhoda did not want a service but asked for any donations in her memory be made to Green Hills Animal Shelter, 3041 E. 10th St., Trenton, MO, 64683. Donations can be handled by Slater Neal Funeral Home, 813 Custer St., Trenton, MO, 64683.

New Details Emerge on American Sportsman Club

By Mark McLaughlin R-T Staff Writer

Last week’s story on the American Sportsman Club (ASC) and the potential of public access to Lake Trenton a private lake, created a tempest of competing claims, and a series of new details.

Vance Cox, owner of the American Sportsman Club in Trenton, previously claimed his “American Sportsman Club” allowed non-residents of the lake to purchase an ASC membership to fish and or boat.

Cox represented this club to the RepublicanTimes as a 501C3 Not for Profit organization for the story last week which we have learned is not factual.

Cox revealed, and the Republican-Times learned by a search of the Missouri Secretary of State’s website that Cox’s venture is in fact a limited liability corporation (LLC) designed as a for-profit business.

“We just learned that we are an LLC rather than a non-profit,”Cox said.”We were told by our attorneys that it shouldn’t matter.”

It should be noted that this was determined by Cox after the Republican-

Times requested copies of Cox’s 501C3 paperwork prior to our second interview.

When pressed on the timing of when Cox knew he did not have non-profit status, he said that “I made a mistake.”

While the Trenton Lake Association (TLA) has expressed “no comment, ” what has been learned is that Lake Trenton is a fully private lake, shared in ownership with use rights to residents of the lake area who have purchased TLA memberships.

Cox’s efforts can be likened to a group seeking to hold a public golf tournament at a private country club without the permission of the country club.

While Cox, who purchased a fishing lot at the lake two years ago, can host guests on that lot, he must be present in order for outside individuals to fish on the lake, according to Lake Association by-laws. That departs from Cox’s assertion that boats can be rented from the American Sportsman to go on the Lake and fish independent of his presence and sponsorship with the guest.

Cox has doubled down

on advertising for his club, with frequent posting on his personal Facebook account, with the new add-on identifying the club as an LLC.

Cox says that he believes the Club is legal, because, as he notes, every new member of the club becomes a member of the LLC. With a little checking on how an LLC works, it seems that every new owner requires the filing of new paperwork, with Cox retaining 51% of the ownership stake, by his account.

By that calculus, ASC members would not require Cox’s presence at the fishing lot in order to fish, a contention likely to be challenged in any legal proceeding by the TLA.

While more details will certainly emerge on this in the coming weeks, the Republican-Times will continue to seek more information on this story.

Editor's Note: due to the inaccurate information provided to the newspaper regarding the previous lake article, readers should consider the previous article retracted and no longer endorsed by the Trenton Republican-Times.

Tractor Fire Results in Equipment Loss

Grundy County Rural Fire responded to a tractor fire in a hayfield belonging to David and Amy Kurtz of rural Grundy County at 315 SW 27th Street in Trenton at 5:38 PM June 5.

Following a call to 911, GCRF dispatched to the scene where they found a Kubota tractor fully involved with fire. The tractor was a total loss, no injuries were reported.

Grundy County Rural Fire was on the scene for roughly one hour and stayed after extinguishing the tractor fire to perform overhaul to check for additional fire.

GCFD used three inch hose in attacking the fire.

The Trenton Fire Department and Grundy County ambulance responded in support of Grundy County Rural Fire.

Chalk Talk

by Mark McLaughlin R-T Staff Writer

GOOD CITIZENSHIP TAKES A LITTLE EXTRA EFFORT

The Republican-Times welcomes and encourages reader feedback and opinion, and it’s an important part of the relationship between your newspaper and its readers.

The small town newspaper is not just something for the reader to absorb by osmosis. Our hope is that when you read something that makes you mad, you respond. When you read something that makes you ask questions, and by extension, hope to encourage us to ask questions on your behalf, we think that is tremendous.

That is citizenship in action, and it reveals an important truth. Communication between your print media and you, the citizen, means we’re making you think, and inspiring you to take action.

Much of what we write about in news stories are local items of interest, and they are about what our City and County governments are doing on our behalf.

There’s lots of things to feel really good about in the city and county and we have a lot of good people on both fronts that go to work for us every day. Sometimes, they swing and they miss. Sometimes, it’s Tator Time and they touch ‘em all.

One letter to the editor recently received was from Trenton resident Anna Ferguson, who offered opinions and asked questions on the story related to Sheriff Rodney Herring’s pay situation and how all three of Missouri’s constitutional branches have weighed in.

Her opinions were strong, and her questions were solid. And to express them publicly was then followed up by attending last week’s meeting of the Grundy County Commissioners, asking questions, offering ideas, providing accountability.

It is an example of what more people can and should do because, upon reflection, Mrs. Ferguson understood that these stories actually have an effect on people locally, and she cared enough to express that, and followed it up with action.

I’m proud of Mrs. Ferguson, and she’d get my Government Class Citizen of the month award if she were in my class.

Well done, my friend. Carpe Diem!

ARE WE IN WORLD WAR III?

President Biden’s recent blessing to Ukraine to use missiles with longer ranges to strike into Russian territory to stop their of-

fensive towards the Kharkiv region of Ukraine inches the United States closer and closer to direct confrontation with Russia.

A review of MSN postings on their browser page offer two or three stories of threats by Vladimir Putin to use nuclear weapons, of his aides wistfully pushing to attack U.S. cities, advice on how to survive a nuclear conflict, and the “drumbeat of war” being pounded by France, Poland and others in NATO.

Citizens of Europe are receiving information on what to do if attacks come. Stories are pouring in about how U.S troops will be deployed into the Netherlands,. Italy and Greece and then transported by train to wherever the conflict is.

It’s an awful lot of stories aimed at ginning up fear and trepidation about the possibility of the United States entering World War III.

The question is, are we in it already? With no less than three theaters of potential conflict in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and the South China Sea, news reports suggest a ramping up, preparing, and war-gaming for something as early as winter of 2024, and certainly by 2026. Strong, deterrent leadership by the United States is not an option.

It is a requirement. Failure is not an option.

Say what you want about the weakness of the current administration at the moment,

[See Chalk Talk, Page 5]

Trenton Area Calendar of Events

FRIDAY

Church Women United Thrift Shop, 17th & Harris, noon to 4 p.m.

Green Hills Alcoholics Anonymous, Tenth Street Baptist Church, 6 p.m. For more information, call 359-2704. North 65 Center: Line Dancers, 9:30 a.m.; Cards, 12:30 p.m.

Grundy County Health Department, Safe Sitter for Grandparents, GCHD Education Annex, 9 a.m. to noon.

SATURDAY

Church Women United Thrift Shop, 17th & Harris, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Farmers Market, Sesquicentennial Park, 8 a.m. - noon.

Grundy County Museum open 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.

SUNDAY

Narcotics Anonymous, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 4 p.m.

Grundy County Museum open 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.

MONDAY

Green Hills Alcoholics Anonymous, Tenth Street Baptist Church, 6 p.m. For more information, call 359-2704 or 3572367.

Grundy County Health Department, WIC Services by appointment, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Free Blood Pressure Check and $1.00 Blood Sugar Checks, walk-in, 9 a.m. to noon.

MI Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 2901 Hoover Drive, 7 p.m. North 65 Center: Line Dancers, 9:30 a.m.; Cards, 12:30 p.m.

TUESDAY

Trenton Lions Club, First Christian Church Fellowship Hall, noon.

Grundy County Health Department, Children’s Immunizations by Appointment, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Nurse Services by appointment, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Spickard Coffee Club, Wise Community Center, 8 a.m.

Domestic Violence/Anger Management Group, North Central Missouri Mental Health Center, 7 to 9 p.m.

North 65 Center: Cards, 12:30 p.m.; Fun Night, 6 p.m.

WEDNESDAY

Grundy County Health Department, Children’s Immunizations by Appointment, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ; GCHD Board of Trustees, Regular Board Metting Lower Level of Health Department 4:30 p.m.

Green Hills Alcoholics Anonymous, Tenth Street Baptist Church, noon. For more information, call 359-2704 or 3572367.

Class of 1959 Lunch at Senior Center at 11:30 a.m. North 65 Center: Cards, 12:30 p.m.

THURSDAY

Trenton Rotary Club, BTC Bank Community Room, noon.

North 65 Center: Cards, 12:30 p.m.; Early Bird Bingo, 6:00 p.m.; Regular Bingo, 6:45 p.m.

Grundy County Health Department, Adult Blood Draw Clinic by appointment, 9 a.m. to noon.

THE AMERICAN EXPERIMENT

How the Pendulum of Power Swung Back Right

By Mark McLaughlin R-T Staff Writer

(Part four of an eight part series)

In 1781, with the Revolutionary War nearing its conclusion, it became clear that Britain’s hold on the new United States of America was over.

The “new nation” that Benjamin Franklin had called for had been born. Sentiments for what would follow were very strongly in the camp of a decentralized, Statesdriven government repulsed by decision-making from hundreds or thousands of miles away, and control of the machines of government to be operated in what Amanda Miebrow of the George Washington Presidential Library called, “...an alliance of thirteen sovereign republics rather than the foundation for a national government.”

For those who demanded and expected local control of local matters, this made sense. Individual states developed their own currencies and money, courts operated that protected in-state litigants favorably over out-state plaintiffs who might file suit. While things like diplomacy were left to Congress, anything that required all thirteen states to agree required all thirteen states to vote unanimously in favor.

Whatever legislation came down from Congress lacked any sufficient mechanism to enforce compliance from the states, and what did come

down was frequently slow-walked, stalled or stonewalled if it didn’t match with the philosophy of the state governments.

Between 1781-89, the United States was administered by its first “national constitution”, the Articles of Confederation, written and inspired from the ideas of Pennsylvanian John Dickinson, who had since relocated to Delaware.

George Washington returned to Mt. Vernon in 1784, and watched in dismay as the new nation floundered with little credibility around the world, and the Congress flailed about in funding its initiatives, requesting $10 million in funds from the individual states, and receiving only $1.5 million.

Instead of a national symphony, an image was presented by the U.S. to the rest of the world of a “german band”. 13-states, playing from 13different sheets of music.

Just slightly two years away from the end of the War, rumbles and dissent started to signal the possibility of extreme outcomes, everything from rounding up and killing the members of Congress to setting up our own monarchy(at least something they understood), and in the worst indignity, to go back to George III and beg him to take the states back under the protection of the Crown.

It was Shay’s rebellion in Massachusetts(go figure), that put distressed farmers losing their homes and farms to bank foreclosure that

Chalk Talk

• FROM PAGE FOUR•

but the time between November 5 and January 20 whoever wins the Presidency will be the U.S. most vulnerable few weeks in a long time.

It’s notable that two weeks ago, on the National Day of Prayer, there was not the traditional ceremony at the National Cathedral with the participation of our political leaders.

Great American leaders from Washington to Lincoln, and beyond trusted the “Invisible Hand” of “Divine Providence” to protect

America.

Lincoln was asked during the darkest days of the Civil War, “Do you believe that God is on our side?”

After a moment of silence, Lincoln looked down and replied,”We had better pray that we are on God’s side.”

That our Creator is left out of our calculus at this tenuous time is not a good sign. Where prayer is concerned, all of us need to pick up the slack if our leaders can’t find the time to bother.

sent a dagger of fear through the different states. That an uprising within states could catch fire and result in all of them being tarred and feathered, run out of town on a rail, or worse, struck fear on the farthest swing left of the pendulum of where power resided in the U.S…just two or three steps removed from anarchy.

In the Annapolis Convention of 1786 and the Philadelphia Convention that followed, there were few carry-overs from the Continental Congress that produced the Declaration.

Thomas Jefferson was serving as the Ambassador to France. John Adams served as the Ambassador to Great Britain.

Franklin was the lone contributing author of the Declaration. Joseph Wilson would become a major contributor to the construction of the Constitution. Dickinson was the flowing conduit between the Articles and what would follow.

But it was the New Blood, the “2nd Sons” of the Revolution who would “reap the whirlwind” of moving the country back to “the right”, with a strong(er) central government that still recognized and reflected rights and powers of the state.

James Madison from Virginia. Alexander Hamilton, Washington’s Aide D’camp from Continental Army Days, John Jay, and Gouverneur Morris did not bring revolutionary zeal to the debate, but did bring the ability to see, to plan, and to prob-

lem-solve.

The Founders of our nation were philosophers. The Framers of our nation were architects and engineers, in addition to being legal scholars and academics.

The Framers were problemsolvers who weighed how to enshrine the “social contract” into a working, practical, form-fitting, working government. They knew, against their initial inclinations that in order to “form a more perfect union” that they needed to unify the functions of a national government that could get things done, collect revenues, manage an army, and meet on “equal footing” with other nations of the world, and still maintain states rights and individual liberties.

In our parlance today, the government had to be able to ring up the King of England, and have him pick up the phone.

Madison, the intellectual equal of Thomas Jefferson, could speak to the poet of the Declaration on equal footing. They didn’t always agree, because Jefferson tended to come down on the side of States Rights, and Madison knew this was an incomplete picture.

Madison said,”A good government implies two things; first, fidelity to the object of government, which is the happiness of the people; second, a knowledge of the means by which that happiness may be obtained.”

[See Experiment, Page 10

Submitted by Brenda Thornee

THS football players had breakfast with summer school students and gave High 5’a to students this week to welcome students.

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Modi market mishap ults in election ors pause the most X ince the COVID-19 ek oalition of Indian arendra han election. It means as been th into Indian stocks ahe pushingthe SENSEX to rec Nowinvestors are unsureof fut since Modi’s business-frie that cla res backlash from the country Modi’selectoral losse populat have to related to taxes and spendi hund

The mixed results in India’s general election are giving investors pause about the economic future of the world’s most populous country. India’s SENSEX index had its biggest one-day plunge since the COVID-19 pandemic last week after it appeared that the political coalition of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi would win fewer seats than projected in the country’s national election. It means that Modi, who has generally been able to govern with little opposition, must now work with a coalition to govern for the first time in his tenure.

Investors piled into Indian stocks ahead of the election, pushing the SENSEX to record highs. Now investors are unsure of the future of India’s economy, since Modi’s business-friendly policies that lifted the country’s middle class and made its billionaires rich have resulted in a backlash from the country’s poor. Much of Modi’s electoral losses came in the country’s most populated parts. Modi may have to reconsider policies related to higher taxes and spending to appease the hundreds of millions of Indians who live on povertylevel wages.

Garfield® by Jim Davis

Alley Oop® by Joey Alison Sayers and Jonathan Lemon

For Better or For Worse® by Lynn Johnson

Frank & Ernest® by Bob Thaves

The Born Loser® by Art and Chip Sansom

Shoe® by Jeff MacNelly

Grand River Valley Choir and Orchestra

Celebrating our 15th Season presents

Sunlit Silence

June 15, 2024 • 7:00 pm

Trenton R-IX Performing Arts Center

1415 Oklahoma Ave., Trenton, MO

Tyler Busick, Choral Conductor

Chris Thomas, Orchestral Conductor

Sonja Wimer, Choral Accompanist

Featuring the premiere of “Sunlit Silence”, a piece composed and conducted by Jonathan T. Krinke and dedicated in honor of the late Buddy Hannaford GRVCO

PUBLIC NOTICES

Because The People Must Know

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Trenton R-IX School District is requesting proposals for replacement of entry doors and windows insulated with tempered glass.

Proposals shall be submitted to: Trenton R-IX School District 1607 Normal Street Trenton, MO 64683

All proposals shall be submitted no later than 9:00 am on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 by standard mail clearly marked: Trenton R-IX Windows and Doors. Contact Daniel Gott at 660-359-3994 (dgott@trentonr9. k12.mo.us) for project specifications. The Trenton R-IX School District reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all proposals or to accept the proposal that it finds, in its sole discretion, to be in the best interest of the school district.

(6/6, 6/13/24)

SouthLaw, P.C. 13160 Foster, Suite 100 Overland Park, KS 66213-2660 (913) 663-7600

File No. 244886

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE

For default in the payment of debt secured by a deed of trust executed by Carole L. Sims, dated May 7, 2019, and recorded on May 20, 2019, Document No. 19LR0453, in Book No. 663, at Page 668 in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds, Grundy County, Missouri, the undersigned Successor Trustee will on June 25, 2024, at 10:00 AM, at the North Front Door of the Grundy County Courthouse, Trenton, Missouri, sell at public vendue to the highest bidder for cash:

All of Lot Twenty-five (25) of Scott and Haddox First Addition to the City of Trenton, Missouri, commonly known as 2303 Park Lane Dr, Trenton, MO, 64683

subject to all prior easements, restrictions, reservations, covenants and encumbrances now of record, if any, to satisfy the debt and costs.

SouthLaw, P.C. Successor Trustee

First Publication: May 30, 2024. For more information, visit www.southlaw.com

NOTICE

Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, 15 U.S.C. §1692c(b), no information concerning the collection of this debt may be given without the prior consent of the consumer given directly to the debt collector or the express permission of a court of competent jurisdiction. The debt collector is attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose (Casefile No. 244886-1026659).

(5/30, 6/6, 6/13, 6/20/24)

CLASSIFIEDS

Agriculture

See Consumer Oil & Supply for your One Stop Shop for Muck and Lacrosse boots and gloves. Consumer Oil & Supply 614 Harris Ave. 359-2258

Buying standing walnut, oak & cottonwood timber. Cash or on shares. Call Mike at 816-248-3091

Gravel, sand, top soil, mulch, river rock, boulders-Turney Mini Quarry 816-248-2523.

For Sale: One grass fed beef. Sold by hanging weight. Call 66o-645-2269

PAYING $75/ACRE FOR RENTAL PASTURE. Will consider any size and location. 816-288-9060.

For Rent

Medicaid. For more information contact Cassandra Brewer at 660-359-5647.

Real Estate

Sunnyview Apartments is taking applications for single & double apartments. Sunnyview is a residential care facility for the elderly. We provide qualified staff to administer medications, provide three meals a day and offer minimal assistance with the activities of daily living. Now accepting

FOR SALE: Home in Spickard, MO. 3 bed 1 bath. Has older two car garage. No heat or air. Older move in ready home. No title Insurance. Serious inquires only. Please call 660-748-3339

For Sale

Garden Headquarters! Garden seeds, assorted garden tools, best prices in town. Trenton Hardware, 901 Main, Trenton. 660359-3660.

FOR SALE: WHIRLPOOL DRYER. 8-YEARS OLD, IN GREAT CONDITION. $175. Has steam, and all the bells and whistles. Call 816-500-1876.

FOR SALE - 1985 Clipper 42 A Seed Cleaner. Completely mobile, has extra motors and augers. Chemical tank attached as well. Needs to go to a farm instead of sitting in the shed. Used to be Williams Seed Cleaning. Call/text for

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF GRUNDY COUNTY, MISSOURI

WILLIAM G. COON, Trustee of the ) William G. Coon Revocable Inter ) Vivos Trust Agreement dated October ) 27, 1995 ) ) et al, ) Plaintiffs, ) vs. ) Case No. ) 24AG-CC00012 BENTLEY WYATT, ) ) et al, ) Defendants. )

NOTICE OF ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION TO: Bentley Wyatt, John Doe Defendants 1-100 and each of the defendants’ successors, grantees, assignees, donees, alienees, administrators, executors, creditors and other legal representatives

YOU ARE HEREBY notified that an action has been commenced against the Defendants named above in the Circuit Court of Grundy County, Missouri, the object, and general nature of which is to determine and declare the respective interests and to quiet title the following described property in Grundy County, Missouri, to-wit: The North Three-fourth (N 3/4) of the Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter of Section Sixteen (16), Township Sixty-three (63) North, Range Twenty-Four (24) West of the Fifth Principal Meridian, subject to public and private roads and easements.

The names of all parties to said action are stated above in the caption hereof and the name and address for the attorney for the Plaintiffs is Tara L. Walker, P.O. Box 457, 605 E. 9th Street, Trenton, Missouri 64683.

You are further notified that unless you file an answer or other pleading or shall otherwise appear and defend against the aforesaid petition within 45 days after the 23rd day of May, 2024 (the date of first publication), Judgment by default will be rendered against you.

WITNESSETH my hand and seal of the Circuit Court this 17th day of May, 2024.

/s/ Becky Stanturf, Circuit Clerk (5/23, 5/30, 6/6, 6/13/24)

questions or pictures. (660) 214-4272.

Help Wanted Sunnyview Nursing Home has job openings available for the following positions: RN, LPN, CNA, Dietary and Level I Medication Aide. Please fill out a job application at 1311 East 28th Street, Trenton, MO 64683. E.O.E.

North Central Missouri College is seeking a Residential Life Coordinator/Assistant Women's Softball Coach. This is a full-time position with benefits included. Interested applicants should visit www.ncmissouri. edu/jobs for more information and how to apply or call 660-357-6203. NCMC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Help Wanted: Home Visitor, Caldwell County Head Start. This position is responsible for planning home-based learning experiences that focus on promoting high-quality early learning in the home. Full-Time with the following benefits: 4-day work week, Dental/Health /Life, insurance, Retirement, LifeFlight, Sick Leave. Paid tuition to NCMC This position is responsible for the supervision of center staff and volunteers. As well as planning, monitoring, and managing the facility ™s daily program, social services, and family

engagement activities. Visit http://www.greenhillsheadstart.org for job description and application or call 660-359-2214. E.O.I.

North Central Missouri College is seeking a Nursing Instructor. This is a full-time position with benefits included. Interested applicants should visit www.ncmissouri.edu/jobs for more information and how to apply or call 660357-6203. NCMC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer

Services

*SEAMLESS GUTTERING* We are ready to replace your old gutters with new seamless aluminum gutters! MOORE’S CONSTRUCTION & WOODWORK, INC. 359-5477. 52 Years Experience.

WANTED!! Used & Abused Cars & Trucks, Highest prices paid! You Call - We Come Get It! FRONTIER AUTO & TRUCK PARTS, (formerly Jim’s Auto Salvage). 145 Hwy. W., Trenton, 3593888.

Carquest Auto Parts T & L Auto Supply, Inc., 1823 East 9th, Trenton, 3592268. tlautosupply.com Monday-Friday, 7-5, Saturday, 7:30-12. Call MIDWEST MECHANICAL & rely on comfort. 800-425-0976 or 4856611, Brian S. Israel, owner. For your heating &

SouthLaw, P.C. 13160 Foster, Suite 100 Overland Park, KS 66213-2660 (913) 663-7600

File No. 245518

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE

For default in the payment of debt secured by a deed of trust executed by Joelle Barrer, dated June 9, 2023, and recorded on June 12, 2023, Document No. 23LR0638, in Book No. 696, at Page 803 in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds, Grundy County, Missouri, the undersigned Successor Trustee will on June 25, 2024, at 10:00 AM, at the North Front Door of the Grundy County Courthouse, Trenton, Missouri, sell at public vendue to the highest bidder for cash:

All of Lot Seven (7), in Block four (4), of College Addition to the City of Trenton, Grundy County, Missouri, commonly known as 923 Normal St, Trenton, MO, 64683

subject to all prior easements, restrictions, reservations, covenants and encumbrances now of record, if any, to satisfy the debt and costs.

SouthLaw, P.C. Successor Trustee

First Publication: May 30, 2024. For more information, visit www.southlaw.com

NOTICE

Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, 15 U.S.C. §1692c(b), no information concerning the collection of this debt may be given without the prior consent of the consumer given directly to the debt collector or the express permission of a court of competent jurisdiction. The debt collector is attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose (Casefile No. 245518-1029718).

(5/30, 6/6, 6/13, 6/20/24)

cooling needs. All Tax Credits & Rebates available! Geostar Geothermal Heat Pumps. Over 25 years experience.

RED BARN MINI STORAGE, across from the new hospital on Iowa Blvd in Trenton. 5 Unit sizes available. Call Mike Cooksey 660-359-7683.

JAMESPORT LUMBER Full Service Lumberyard. We also sell Trusses/ metal/rebar/concrete blocks. New Hardware Department - Gift Certificates and Delivery AvailableFree Estimates 32089 St. Hwy 6, Jamesport 660684-6404

JAMESPORT BUILDERS, 660-684-6931, 32137 St. Hwy 6, Jamesport. POLE BARNS - GARAGES, Spray foam insulation.

BUY - SELL - TRADE -

BIG NASTY'S GUNS & AMMO - Stop in and see

NOTICE OF PRIMARY

ELECTION GRUNDY COUNTY, MISSOURI

TUESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2024

Notice is hereby given to the registered qualified voters of Grundy County, Missouri, that the Missouri Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, August 2, 2024 as certified by the Honorable John Ashcroft, Secretary of State, State of Missouri, and Courtney Campbell, County Clerk of Grundy County. The polls will be open from 6:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m.

The purpose of the Primary Election is to nominate candidates in the Republican, Democratic, Libertarian and Constitution parties of Missouri and Grundy County for the federal, state and county offices to be voted upon at the General Election scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, 2024; and for the election of the county committeemen and county committeewomen in the various townships in Grundy County.

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES FOR NOMINATION

FOR U.S. SENATOR: Josh Hawley, 799 Rivers Edge Rd, Ozark, MO 65721

FOR GOVERNOR:

Darrell Leon McClanahan III, 24346 S 2425 Rd, Milo, MO 64767

Jeremy Gundel, 562 Buzzard Glory Rd, Washburn, MO 65772

Bill Eigel, 398 Patriotic Trail, Weldon Springs, MO 63304

Robert James Olson, 3873 E Washita St, Springfield, MO 65809

John R. (Jay) Ashcroft, 112 Monterey Dr, Jefferson City, MO 65109

Mike Kehoe, 3589 Gettysburg Pl, Jefferson City, MO 65109

Chris Wright, 11351 Amelia Lane, Joplin, MO 64804

Darren L Grant, 190 Fee Fee Rd Apt B, Maryland Heights, MO, 63043 Amber Thomsen, 526 Jellystone Rd #255, Hollister, MO 65672 FOR LIEUTENANT

GOVERNOR:

Holly Rehder, 380 Natchez Trace, Scott City, MO 63780

Dave Wasinger, 2 Huntleigh Woods, St. Louis, MO 63131

Lincoln Hough, 662 S Kickapoo, Springfield, MO 65804

Paul Berry III, 11932 Barbara, Maryland Heights, MO 63043

Tim Baker, 5050 Calvey Creek Rd, Robertsville, MO 63072

Matthew E. Porter, 4577 Austin Knoll Ct., Saint Charles, MO 63304

FOR SECRETARY OF STATE: Valentina Gomez, 2811 Indiana Ave, St. Louis, MO 63118

Shane Schoeller, 7448 Turkey Hatch Ct, Willard, MO 65781

Denny Hoskins, 709 Cedar Dr Apt

CLASSIFIEDS

us at our New Location1515 E. 9th Street, Trenton, MO. Nathan Rorebeck, 660-635-0469, www.bignastys.com

CRP Grass seeding and management. Experienced life long grass farmer. Ray Schwarz 816-2234712

HELTON INSURANCE SOLUTIONS Williams Shopping Center, Trenton, MO. New To Medicare or Want To Compare Pricing ... Call Brian McDaniel 816-289-1935 or Leah Helton 660-359-3806 or 660-635-0537 "Our Quality Of Service Is What Makes Us Different"

Mid-States Services is now offering: Fiber Optic installs in rural Trenton! Mid-States will STILL WAIVE the $150 installation free for those who sign up NOW! Sign up TODAY by calling 660359-2045 or at

B, Warrensburg, MO 64093

Adam J. Schwadron, 419 Angelique Pl, St. Charles, MO 63303

Jamie Corley, 7186 Delmar Blvd, St Louis, MO 63130

Dean Plocher, 12819 Wood Valley Ct, St Louis, MO 63131

Mary Elizabeth Coleman, PO Box 1409, 131 W High St, Jefferson City, MO 65102

Mike Carter, 500 Boone’s Lick Rd., St. Charles, MO 63301 FOR STATE TREASURER: Cody Smith, 1012 Euclid Blvd, Carthage, MO 64836 Andrew Koenig, 741 Sherwick Terr., Manchester, MO 63021

Lori Rook, 2048 South Hwy J, Springfield, MO 65809 Vivek Malek, 800 Stone Bridge Springs Dr, Wildwood, MO 63005 Tina Goodrick, 5102 Mockingbird Ln, St. Joseph, MO 64506 Karan Pujji, 11317 Fairways Dr, Creve Coeur, MO 63141 FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL: Will Scharf, 8125 Stratford Dr, Clayton, MO 63105

Andrew Bailey, 82 Wardens Branch Rd, Hermann, MO 65041 FOR U.S. REPRESENTATIVE - DIST 6: Freddie Griffin Jr., 6665 NE Washington Dr, Hamilton, MO 64644

Brandon Kleinmeyer, 6709 NW Evelyn St, Kansas City, MO 64151 Sam Graves, 902 Park St, Tarkio, MO 64491

Weldon Wray Woodward, 301 S 7th St, Novelty, MO 63460

FOR STATE REPRESENTATIVEDIST 2: Mazzie Christensen, 21545 W 360h Pl, Bethany, MO 64424

FOR CIRCUIT JUDGE - CIRCUIT 3: Matt Krohn, 15923 Highway D, Princeton, MO 64673

Steven D. Hudson, 146 S Hwy 65, Trenton, MO 64683

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES FOR NOMINATION

FOR U.S. SENATOR: Karla May, 800 Arlington Ave Apt 108, St. Louis, MO 63112

December L. Harmon, 4476 W Bellview Dr Apt B, Columbia, MO 65203

Lucas Kunce, 302 N Spring St Apt C, Independence, MO 64050

Mita Biswas, 170 Fee Fee Rd #B, Maryland Heights, MO 63043

FOR GOVERNOR: Eric Morrison, 8805 Hunter St, Kansas City, MO 64138

Crystal Quade, 210 West Commercial St Ste C, Springfield, MO 65803

Sheryl Gladney, 2305 Fox Chase Dr, St. Charles, MO 63301

Hollis L Laster, 5801 Bermuda Dr, Normandy, MO 63121

Mike Hamra, 4555 E Berkeley St,

http://www.mid-states.net. 4100 Oklahoma Ave., Trenton, MO 64683.

Willing Workers LLP - Do you need your siding or roof replaced? Give Willing Workers a call today for a FREE estimate... 660-973-5694, John Kramer, 17594 St. Hwy. 190, Jamesport, MO

PAGE TREE SERVICE

Jeff 660-359-2202-home. Serving the entire Green Hills Area! Specializing in tree trimming, stump grinding & complete removal. 75' bucket truck, chipper & stump grinder. Licensed & insured. Free Estimates!

Shelly's Pet Care, 660-6846864, 103 S. Locust St., Jamesport, MO 64648. Professional, Personalized Grooming. Appointments available Monday - Saturday. 35 Years of Experience! Serving the Green Hills Area since 1996!

Springfield, MO 65809

FOR LIEUTENANT

GOVERNOR:

Richard Brown, 5130 Lawn Ave, Kansas City, MO 64130

Anastasia Syes, 9210 Outerbelt Ct, St Louis, MO 63121

FOR SECRETARY OF STATE:

Monique Williams, 4268 Enright Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108

Barbara Phifer, 1733 W. Woodbine Ave, St. Louis, MO 63122

Haley Jacobson, 5966 S Cuba Ct, St. Louis, MO 63139

FOR STATE TREASURER:

Mark Osmack, 878 Totem Woods Ct, Manchester, MO 63021

FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL:

Elad Jonathan Gross, 626 Dover Pl, St. Louis, MO 63111

FOR U.S.

REPRESENTATIVE - DIST 6:

Rich Gold, 1010 E Liberty St, Mexico, MO 65265

Pam May, 3010 Oakland, St Joseph, MO 64506

LIBERTARIAN CANDIDATES FOR NOMINATION

FOR U.S. SENATOR:

W.C. Young, 8300 E 88th Terr Apt 1003, Kansas City, MO 64138 FOR GOVERNOR: Bill Slantz, 1620 Congress Way, St Charles, MO 63303 FOR LIEUTENANT

GOVERNOR: Ken Iverson, 17 Auvergne Dr, Lake St. Louis, MO 63367

FOR SECRETARY OF STATE:

Carl Herman Freese, 1983 Freese Ln, Foristell, MO 63348 FOR STATE TREASURER:

John A. Hartwig, Jr., 7707 Davis Dr, Clayton, MO 63105-2615

FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL: Ryan L. Munro, 14724 Appalachian Trail, Chesterfield, MO 63017

FOR U.S.

REPRESENTATIVE - DIST 6:

Andy Maidment, 1420 Laurel St, Kearney, MO 64060

Certification of Grundy County Candidates for August 4, 2020 Primary Election

COUNTY REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES FOR NOMINATION

FOR ASSOCIATE COUNTY COMMISSIONER – FIRST DISTRICT:

Don Sager, 839 Town & Country Ln, Trenton, MO 64683

Kevin Ireland, 301 SW 20th St, Trenton, MO 64683

Trenton R -IX Board Meets in Closed Session

The Trenton R-IX School Board met in closed session on Tuesday, June 5, approving eleven new hires. New teachers, sponsors and paras include Megan Lynch, Fourth Grade; Buffy Rosson, Rissler Administrative Assistant; Emily Hanson, Title Paraprofessional; Heather Dixon, Title Paraprofessional; Jessy White, Rissler Special Education Paraprofessional; Tana Moore, Eighth Grade ELA; Rob Deaver, Seventh Grade Science; Anthony Webb, Color Guard; Cole Henderson, TMS Football Assistant; Lucas Lewis, TMS Football Assistant & Varsity Boys Track; and Sarah Sager, Girls Tennis.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Because The People Must Know

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is given this 13th day of June 2024 that the Planning & Zoning will hold a public hearing on July 1, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall, 1100 Main Street, for purpose of hearing a request from Taco Bell in care of Roderick Signs for 20 foot variance on the required 20 foot height on a free standing Class C Type 3 sign to allow them to install sign on property located at 1909 E 9th Street.

Mr. Donnie Vandevender, Chairman Mr. Michael Ormsby, Secretary (6/13/24)

FOR ASSOCIATE COUNTY COMMISSIONER – SECOND DISTRICT:

Bryan Johnson, 346 NE Hwy NN, Trenton, MO 64683

Brad Chumbley, 211 E 28th St., Trenton, MO 64683

FOR SHERIFF: Rodney W. Herring, 1124 Lake Manor Dr., Trenton, MO 64683 FOR COLLECTOR/ TREASURER: Michele Geib, 780 NE 18th Ave, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR ASSESSOR: Nathanial Curtis, 203 Connie Ln., Trenton, MO 64683 FOR PUBLIC

ADMINISTRATOR: Adria Moore, 188 NW 52nd Ave, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR CORONER: Dewayne Slater, 1703 E. 5th St, Trenton, MO 64683

REPUBLICAN COMMITTEE PEOPLE FOR NOMINATION FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP: Brandon Harvey, 1145 Hwy Y, Spickard, MO 64679 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –HARRISON TOWNSHIP: Nathan Rorebeck, 423 NW 40th St, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEWOMAN –HARRISON TOWNSHIP: Heather Rorebeck, 423 NW 40th St, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –

JACKSONT TOWNSHIP: David Meservey, 134 SE 61st St., Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP

COMMITTEEWOMAN –

JACKSON TOWNSHIP: Marcy Meservey, 134 SE 61st St., Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP: Wesley Barone, 385 SW 62nd Ave, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP

COMMITTEEWOMAN –

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP: Jenny Barone, 385 SW 62nd Ave, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP

COMMITTEEMAN –

LIBERTY TOWNSHIP:

Dennis McDonald, 410 NE Hwy J., Galt, MO 64641 FOR TOWNSHIP

COMMITTEEWOMAN –

LIBERTY TOWNSHIP: Becky McDonald, 410 NE Hwy J., Galt, MO 64641 FOR TOWNSHIP

COMMITTEEWOMAN –

LINCOLN TOWNSHIP:

Carol Thomas, 420 NE Hwy Y, Trenton, MO, 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –

MADISON TOWNSHIP:

Warren Johnston, 398 SW Elm Ln, Trenton, MO, 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEWOMAN –MADISON TOWNSHIP: Leah Helton, 300 NW Church St, Trenton, MO, 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –

MARION TOWNSHIP:

Brian Peterson, 55 SE 75th Ave., Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEWOMAN –MARION TOWNSHIP: Barbara Peterson, 55 SE 75th Ave, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –MYERS TOWNSHIP:

Robert Eller, 975 NE Hwy J, Galt, MO 64641 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEWOMAN –MYERS TOWNSHIP: Kelly Eller, 975 NE Hwy J, Galt, MO 64641 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –TAYLOR TOWNSHIP: Rod Gamble, 512 Jones St, Brimson, MO 64642 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEWOMAN –TAYLOR TOWNSHIP: Kadi Gamble, 512 Jones St, Brimson, MO 64642 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –TRENTON FIRST WARD: Don Sager, 839 Town & Country Ln, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –

TRENTON SECOND WARD: Brad Chumbley, 211 E 28th St, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEREWOMAN –

TRENTON SECOND WARD:

Pamela MacDonald, 1323 Cedar St, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –

TRENTON THIRD WARD:

Claude Harris, 295 NE 38th Ave, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEWOMAN –

TRENTON THIRD WARD:

Barbara Harris, 295 NE 38th Ave, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP

COMMITTEEMAN –

TRENTON FOURTH WARD:

Ben Thomas, 355 SE 20th St, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP

COMMITTEEWOMAN –

TRENTON FOURTH WARD: Chris Keuhn, 3310 E 10th St, Trenton, MO 64683

FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP: Jerry Korody, 312 NW Teal Ln, Spickard, MO 64679 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITEEWOMAN –WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP: Holly Elliott, 1259 NW Hwy A., Spickard, MO 64679 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –WILSON TOWNSHIP: Jeffrey Smith, 415 W Main St, Laredo, MO 64652 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEWOMAN –WILSON TOWNSHIP: Kayla Smith, 415 W Main St, Laredo, MO 64652 DEMOCRATIC COMMITTEEPEOPLE FOR NOMINATION FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEWOMAN –JACKSON TOWNSHIP: Marie Gladbach Dolan, 625 SE 10th Ave., Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEWONAN –MADISON TOWNSHIP: Dorothy Taul, 832 NW 23rd St., Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEMAN –TRENTON FIRST WARD: Glen Briggs, 701 E 5th St, Trenton, MO 64683 FOR TOWNSHIP COMMITTEEWOMAN –TRENTON FIRST WARD: Lucinda Guthrie, 126 Riverside Dr, Trenton, MO 64683 COUNTY CLERK/ELECTION AUTHORITY CERTIFICATION I, Courtney Campbell, County Clerk/Election Authority within and for the County of Grundy do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a true and correct list as certified to me by John R. Ashcroft, Secretary of State, State of Missouri, of the offices for which candidates are entitled to be voted for at the PRIMARY ELECTION to be held August 6, 2024 IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I Have Hereunto set my hand and affixed my Seal. Done at my office this 7th day of June, 2024 Courtney Campbell, County Clerk/Election Authority

Experiment

Hamilton on the other hand, was suspicious of the “great unwashed” of the populace, saying of them,”Whether societies of men are really capable of establishing good government from reflection and choice, or whether they are forever destined to depend, for their political constitutions, of accident and force.”

In a nutshell…Madison believed the people had to be at the forefront of any deliberations of the convention, while Hamilton, on the other hand, believed that the people’s emotional excesses needed to be kept in check.

Madison knew that the delegates who would arrive in Philadelphia would come with different objectives, some to simply amend the Articles and tweak them, and others who knew the Articles were so flawed

that it was necessary to start over completely.

The matter of liberty and people’s freedom was established through the mission statement of the Declaration. The matter of the type of government to fully bring that to flower was to be of much debate.

Washington agreed to serve as President of the convention, a story to be covered down the road in this series, but for our purposes here, let it be said that he was the only person in the country who had the universal respect of all concerned…on both sides of the question. Washington rarely spoke during the Convention, but served as the buffer, “the level” if you will, under whose watchful, stoic glare the delegates constrained themselves and worked towards the issue at hand.

Seven articles would

PRINCETON MANOR APARTMENTS

CITIZEN APARTMENTS Rent is based on income and includes: Water, Sewer, Trash, Lawn Care, Snow Removal, 24 hour Maintenance and On-Site Laundry Facilities. Applicants may stop by 2610 Princeton Road, Trenton, Missouri to pick up an application and see the

LOCAL

comprise the final result of the Constitution, with Article I, the legislative branch taking the most time by the delegates. They saw the lawmaking function and representation of the states in passing legislation to be their most important task.

Madison began the process by recommending the largestate favoring Virginia Plan, which suggested one house of Congress based on population. The more population a state had, the more representatives.

William Patterson of New Jersey offered the New Jersey Plan, which suggested a one house Congress with each state having one vote.

In deliberations, there was little give. The states split out on the subject and the Convention threatened to shatter, bogged down by the impasse.

It was Roger Sherman, the pastor from Connecticut who broke the stalemate, offering the compromise of a two-house legislature, with the lower chamber, the House of Representatives, to be based on population, and the upper chamber, the Senate, to be based on equal representation…two senators for each state.

It was a brilliant bit of internal statesmanship.

For the Liberty-first group, the House provided the closest ac-

cess to the individual American. It would also be given control of the purse strings of the government. For the strong government folks, the Senate provided a counter to the “emotionalism” of the people, providing a set of brakes to put on their exuberance. The Senate would receive the power of confirmation of appointees and an important “extra”...its members would be chosen by the state legislatures.

This was so critical to the apologists of the Articles and the states rights faction of the Convention because it gave the states what they saw as a seat at the table and a voice in the charting of national policy.

The importance of this provision is lost on this generation. In 1917, the 17th Amendment turned the Senate into something completely different… elected by popular vote, and stripping the states of their conduit to the Federal Government. While maybe not a fatal blow to the Constitution, it leaves the states today, 107years removed from this Amendment, with the courts as their only way to address grievances against the Federal Government. In the next installment, we will look at how a Republic on the model of Rome became the chosen form of government.

Grand River Garden Club

Grand River Garden club members viewed four members yards on Friday, May 31, 2024 Karolyn Thompson showed members my yarrow, day lilies, violas and pansies, mandevilla, Japanese lilac bush and hydrangea tree, hydrangea bush, coral bells and tickseed. Doris Provorse showed her new plantings of Lillie’s of the Valley, Succulents in a Ferris wheel planter, Clematis, and Rose Moss. Doris commented “I have enjoyed planting and learning about different flowers. I appreciate the help from my fellow gardeners and Barnes Greenhouse.”

Marilyn Bain showed her deck plantings of deep red Geraniums, and various petunias. Her yard had two Japanese maple trees, Cone flowers ,Lilies , Coral bells, knock out roses,poninontella, Spirea and Hostas. Linda Lamp showed her row of Calla Lillie’s , Hibiscus tree, rose bushes and Elephant Ears. She had beautiful ferns and a vegetable garden.

Plaza Apartments Recieve Fiber Optic Internet

Alpha Incorporated is digging trenches and installing fiber optic internet for AT&T to the Plaza Apartments in Trenton.

The work commenced in front of the Grundy County Courthouse and Republican-Times offices on East 8th Street on Thursday, June 6.

The external work was to be completed by the weekend, with internal installation set to begin June 10 for residents of the Plaza.

Linda Lamp shows off her garden

NCMC • FROM FRONT PAGE • items that impact our students, their families, and our institutions. Kimberly is an excellent financial aid professional and the leadership she will provide will continue to expand and build

on the many strengths of this organization.”

Kimberly has served as the NCMC Director of Financial Aid for over eight years and will continue in her position at NCMC while serving

ROTARY • FROM FRONT PAGE•

She said the services are offered for its clients of all ages, from adults to children. They have also worked with individuals who have been referred to them by another agency or individual.

During the business meeting, members were reminded the club is responsible for putting up the flags around the courthouse for Flag Day on June 14. Members are to meet at 6:30 am to put them up and 5:30 pm to take them down.

The club made its official presentation of $1,532 to the Bright Futures Trenton shoes program, money which was raised as part of the club’s Shoes for Orphans project earlier in the year. Adrienne Todd, who coordinates the shoe effort for Bright Futures, was presented with the check by Shoes for Orphan Souls chairman Diane Lowrey. The club will meet again at noon on Thursday, June 13, with the program to be announced.

in her MASFAP elected role. North Central Missouri College congratulates Kimberly on her accomplishments and professional undertaking.

St.

TRENTON R-IX SUMMER SPORTS OPPORTUNITIES

The following schedule was released from Trenton R-IX Athletic Director John Cowling on summer athletic opportunities for Bulldog boys and girls athletes.

AM High School Girls Basketball: (MWF) 9:30-11:30 AM

THS GIRLS BASKETBALL CAMP SCHEDULE

June 19 @ TBD

June 20 @ Milan

HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL (MWF) 8:00-9:30 AM

MIDDLE SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL

Tuesdays and Thursdays in June

8:30-10:00 AM TMS Gym

MIDDLE SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

June 10-14, 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM TMS Gym

HIGH SCHOOL BOYS AND GIRLS GOLF Tu-Th

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Middle School Football (TH)

10:00-11:00 am (after weights)

HIGH SCHOOL BOYS TENNIS

Open Court 10:00 AM-11:30 am)

HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS TENNIS

Open Court Tu, Th

HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL

Open Field (T/TR) 9:00-10:30 AM

SOFTBALL CAMPS

June 18-Lathrop

July Date: TBD at Chillicothe or Trenton Softball Team Camp: Mornings July 29-August 2

THSL/MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND CAMP

July 22-26 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

DRUMLINE

July 15-19 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

JULY 22-26 8:00-AM-4:00 PM

COLOR GUARD CAMP

Full Band and Color Guard Camp

July 22-26 8:00-4:00 PM

MIDDLE SCHOOL COLOR GUARD

6/17 and 6/19 1:00-2:00 High School Gym 6/24 and 6/26 1:00-2:00 High School Gym

*The Republican-Times will keep this schedule updated through the summer.

THS Football “Doing Work” in June

By Mark McLaughlin R-T Sports

Football coaches are a unique breed of individual, and Trenton High School football coach Kevin Hixson is a fascinating study of a coach and kid advocate who’s been just about everywhere, seen and done just about everything one could do living his best life.

Hixson was rallying the Bulldog football players Monday at 6:30 AM in what he calls “stadium workouts”.

These consist of intervals and station work of the “Body workout” variety that focus on quickness, core strength and endurance.

Coaches are spread around the track in front of the grandstand, whereby they encourage, admonish and challenge the players to “work hard every second… don’t quit”, invoking the social media talk of a heated(can I say hated) rival down the road south and east a piece. The kids push hard…they say a “willing horse pulls harder”, and from what could be witnessed by an outsider to the festivities, the Bulldog football players could pull the Budweiser beer wagon and do it with gusto.

The end of the workout brought a “campfire talk” to the team to prepare them for their visit to Benedictine team Camp Tuesday through Thursday, and how camp ends with that process, and cycles the players to the weight room beginning on Monday.

There was banter. Laughter from the players. Good-natured ribbing from the coach. And whatever you do,”you’ll need six t-shirts a day for three days”. It was good stuff.

When sitting down with Coach Hixson, you encounter another few interesting ways that Trenton’s coach thinks, and how most accomplished football coaches

think. He has a ton of stories, is surrounded by pictures of players, and teams, and may we add…Approximately ten Marvel Incredible Hulk figurines sitting atop Hixson’s file cabinet.

Coach Hixson is in his “happy place”. A graduate of Omaha Technical High School in 1981, Hixson played five years at Peru State University, earning AllAmerican status as a fullback on Peru State’s 1985 team. He spent time in numerous Missouri High Schools, notably Fairfax, Southern Boone, Crestridge, Carrollton, eleven impactful years at Gallatin where he became that school’s winningest football coach, to Omaha Burke as an assistant and two years as an assistant at Dana College in Blair, NE.

Hixson took his bachelor’s degree in physical education and added his Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology. He performed the counselor function for three years at Crestridge, and then used that training later in working at the Douglas County Youth Center, a juvenile detention center in Omaha where he dealt with some of the toughest kids and toughest histories possible.

He said that it gave him a useful but “different perspective” on work with young people, and that tough times of really hard work with really hard kids from hard life situations made him really appreciate working with public school kids.

In 2019, Hixson was being considered for teaching and head football positions at Cameron and Trenton. With family still living and working in Gallatin, the area was very attractive to him.

He made the decision to take on the Bulldogs head football position.

“The culture here was something that needed discipline and needed change.”Hixson said.”Early in the first season, I happened to look out the door by my office and saw upper class kids putting on girdles and pads in the parking lot from the back of their cars and their pickups.”

A trip to the locker room the same day showed “freshmen running amok” to put it gently. Hixson promptly corrected that process, put the upperclassmen in charge of the locker room and told them they were accountable for it. “Instead of our freshmen doing the grunt work, our upperclassmen are responsible for this.”Hixson says.”Our younger kids learn from our older ones how they are to act and this perpetuates itself as they get older.”

The five year process yielded an eight win season two years ago, and a 9-2 season last season, with a District Cham-

pionship and first round win in the state playoffs.

That’s been done largely by Hixson himself, as he’s had a variety of assistants over the years.

Where last year, Coach Wes Croy handled the offensive coordinator’s position and the play-calling duties, this year’s team will feature the head coach calling both the offensive and defensive plays. Relying heavily on returning quarterback Mason Rongey, an accomplished run-pass option quarterback, linemen Riley Gott and Hunter Smith, and a young up and comer in Camden Skipper who at 6-2 and athleticism to burn , will be developed as QB2 in waiting for next year.

Hixson will bring an Arkansas style offense back to THS this fall, and will feature approximately 75% run and 25% passing plays, with a lot of RPO(Run Pass Option) and decision-making by the quarterback.

On the defense, he will disguise defenses by moving people around from 43, to 6-2, to 4-2-5 defensive looks that will make it difficult for offenses to know exactly how to counter them. “I’ve relied heavily on Mason, Riley and Hunter in our middle school football camp to be there to help teach our techniques, footwork, in addition to where to go and how to act.”Hixson says.”I trust them to be able to step in and assist with leading drill work when we get to the season.”

Some quality players have been lost to graduation, so the old question of “Is this a rebuilding season?” finds its way to

Hixson. “While we have guys who played a lot of downs for us becoming starters for the first time, they’re capable and competent, and ready to go,”Hixson said. Translation…we don’t rebuild, we reload. It’s said that the best coaches, and kidpeople in the education business do not need to demand respect, but they command it with constancy, consistency and discipline.

Every player and coach on the team wears a wristband with the initials, E-TC, which stands for “Effort, Toughness and Commitment”.

Those are the actions and “states of being” which connect to the term “family” on the other side of the wristband.

Hixson quotes this as a mantra to his team, and that the most important task of building culture is inculcated in all that the Bulldogs do.

The teams and coaches observed on the field Monday morning were positive, energetic, and on-task. There was tough love, and there was visible caring and encouragement all over the football field. And, as with all football coaches, love communicated at a very high decibel level that kept the players attention. It’s said that a good coach can change a player’s game. A great one can change their life for the better, and forever. There’s a lot of the second quality happening right now, and football season is just over eight weeks away.

It’s gonna be fun. Go Bulldogs.

THS football players work on quickness and footwork as Coach Kevin Hixson leads... loudly

TEE-BALL AND LITTLE LEAGUE TOURNAMENTS UPCOMING FOR SPORTS

The schedule has been released for Green Hills Recreation Association tournaments upcoming involving Trenton and area tee-ball, little league baseball, and softball teams beginning this week. SCHEDULE:

T-Ball—no tournament

Machine Pitch Baseball week of June 16-21 @ Gallatin Minor League Baseball week of June 9-14 @ Gilman City and Pattonsburg Little League Baseball week of June 9-14 in Trenton at

Ebbe Sports Complex

Junior-Senior League Baseball; June 23-28 in Bethany 8U Softball—No Tournament

10U Softball the week of June 10-14 @ Princeton 12U Softball The week of June 10-14 @ Eagleville

Kevin Hixson THS Football Coach