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SEE THE INSIDER It happened before in early 1900s PAGE 1B

Flirting banned in Rolla?

Five cheerleaders from RHS make All-America. Story, 12B

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Remembering Dr. Mary Bruns Related story, 12A By R.D. Hohenfeldt Staff Writer rd@phelpscountyfocus.com

r. Mary Bruns loved helping people so much that that she continued to see her patients right up until Sept. 1, 2020, just two weeks shy of her 78th birthday. But she kept helping people in many ways after retirement, especially through her “found food” project, a ministry she had started years. Dr. Mary died Oct. 7, 2021, but her husband and other volunteers are hoping—and working to assure—that her work to help people in need will continue for many years to come. “So, let me tell you her story,” said Dr. Ed Bruns in a recent interview. “Mary was about 65. And we were sitting at the table after dinner and she said, ‘You know.’ “I said, ‘know, Mary? What?’ “She said, ‘I maybe only have 5 or 10 more years to live.’ “I said, ‘That could be.’ “She said, ‘Well, I need to get busy, because I’ve got a lot to do yet.’” And she did, indeed, get busier than she already was. “So, she joined The Centre. She started an exercise program. She did water aerobics and Pilates and yoga. All kinds of exercise. And she used to tell people, ‘If you exercise and get fit, you will feel better. And when you feel better, you can help other people feel better, too,” Dr. Ed said. But during the period from 65-70, she

worked on more than exercise. “She got on the Salvation Army Board. She got on the ABLE Commission Board. She got on the Phelps Senior Connections Board,” Dr. Ed Bruns said. “So, during that five-year period from age 65 to 70, it wasn’t just about the exercise. It was a means to an end, and the end was keeping food out of the trash to help feed the people that are hungry in Phelps County.” Her ministry starts What she did after that dinner-time conversation with Dr. Ed soon led to her starting the found-food ministry. “The way this started was a patient of hers was the manager of Big Lots. And so, she got Big Lots to donate their ‘trash’ – found food – to the cause. So, we’d pick up every Monday afternoon or evening at Big Lots. “Then Panera was the next to come online and we’d pick up Panera Friday evenings,” he said. “Then

Dr. Mary Bruns in 2018 received the Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce Spirit of Rolla Award, annually presented to a woman in the community in recognition of significant achievement or lifetime contribution.

Aldi’s came online. We picked up Aldi’s Sunday morning and took it to the Nazarene church.” Now, don’t think this “found food” is really trash or garbage that is handed out to people who might be going through a rough period in life and are having trouble getting enough food to eat. “Oh, no, this is new food that’s left at the end of the day, food that in the past they were dumping in the trash,” said Dr. Ed. “Now, if you get a box of strawberries, there might be some bad ones in the bottom, but you pick those out and the rest are fine. It isn’t all premiere stuff like you would buy, but it’s keeping it out of the trash and doing good and helping people who are hungry. It isn’t coming out of the trash, but it would have gone into the trash otherwise.” That’s what makes it “found food.” Getting it from the donating companies to the people who need it took a lot of work. “For instance, she would pick up Panera on Friday evening. Our kitchen island is probably four times the size of this desk, and it would be full of stuff from Panera. She’d get up at 6 o’clock on Saturday morning, put the bread, pastries, whatever into Ziplock bags and get it all ready to go. About 8:30 she’d leave and take it to the Salvation Army. There’d be people waiting in the parking lot, waiting for her Panera Bread delivery to the Salvation Army when the store opened at 9.” See Dr. Mary Bruns Page 14A

Rich is new director at St. James Parks and Recreation Department By Dave Roberts Sports Editor dave@phelpscountyfocus.com Kristy Rich came to Rolla as a newspaper reporter/photographer. But it didn’t take her long to transition into her first love – athletics– as a profession. And recently she began another phase of that career by accepting the position with the City of St. James as its new Parks and Recreation Director. After graduating from then-Central Missouri State with a bachelor’s degree in journalism in 1992, Rich took a reporter/photographer position with the Rolla Daily News. A former collegiate softball player at Central Missouri, her passion was always sports. And after a couple years in the newspaper business Rich got the opportunity to work in that field when she was hired as the Recreation Supervisor with the City of Rolla’s Park and Recreation Department in 1994. Rich spent around 25 years in the Rolla Parks and Recreation Department before resigning in 2019 to accept a position at St. James Public Schools, the community that has been her home the past several years. And April of 2021, Rich was hired as the St. James Park and Recreation director. After finishing out the school year in June, Rich officially

began her new duties with the St. James parks department. She replaced John Cutsinger, who was St. James Park and Recreation Director for three years. Cutsinger resigned to move to Versailles, where his wife took a new job. “I am excited,” said Rich, who has been a member of the Missouri and National Parks & Recreation Associations Kristy Rich since 1999. “I’ve always felt St. James had the opportunity to have a strong parks system. It’s been small steps so far, but we’ve seen some success. “I loved working at St. James High School for one and a half years. But obviously, this is what I know best.” Rich currently has a small staff, with Terry Legan serving as park supervisor and Greg Jackson as park foreman. She said both St. James Mayor Rick Krawiecki and St. James City Administrator Jim Fleming have been very supportive in plans to improve the town’s parks and recreation department. See Rich Page 3A

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Thursday, December 9, 2021 Phelps County Focus Published weekly on Thursdays for $50 per year by Salem Publishing Company, Inc. 514B Fort Wyman Road, PO Box 1128, Rolla, MO 65401 (USPS 22430; Periodicals Postage Paid at Rolla, MO. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Phelps County Focus, P.O. Box 1128 Rolla, MO 65402) “It’s All About You!” PHONE (573) 426-3700 FAX (573) 426-3701 E-MAIL General & News contact @phelpscountyfocus.com Advertising marcia @phelpscountyfocus.com Publisher donald @phelpscountyfocus.com

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Candidate filing opens for 2021 municipal election By Andrew Sheeley Staff Writer andrew@ phelpscouuntyfocus.com Candidate filing opened Tuesday morning at Rolla City Hall for the 2022 general municipal election. Six city council seats will be on the ballot next year as well as the offices of mayor, city prosecutor, and municipal judge. First to file as a candidate Tuesday was incumbent Mayor Louis Magdits IV, who will be seeking a third term. Beyond the mayorship, the election looks to feature some other incumbents and open seats. Ward 1’s Terry Higgins reported to Phelps County Focus on Monday she is undecided on whether to seek another term. Ward 2’s Ann Murphey reported she will not be seeking reelection. Ward 3’s Lister B. Florence Jr. is currently planning to file for reelection. Ward 4’s Jody Eberle is undecided on whether to seek another term. Ward 5’s Carrolyn Bolin

will be seeking another term and was the second candidate to file as a candidate Tuesday. Ward 6’s Deanne Lyons will not be seeking reelection. Rolla’s incumbent Municipal Judge is James T. Crump and the incumbent City Prosecutor Bradley

Neckermann. They could not be reached by Phelps County Focus Monday. The general municipal election will be April 5, 2022. Candidate filing for the election will remain open until Dec. 28. The last day to register to vote in the election will be March 9, 2022.

PATROL INCIDENT REPORT According to reports of Troop I of the Missouri State Highway Patrol: • Stephen R. Brown, 44, of Florissant, was arrested at 8:28 a.m. Dec. 5 on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm, possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine) and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. Brown was incarcerated in the Phelps County Jail and later released. • Jerome D. Lucas, 30, of Draper, Utah, was arrested at 10:06 p.m. Dec. 4 on charges of felony possession of oxycodone and unlawful use of a weapon. Lucas was incarcerated in the Phelps County Jail and later released.

• Timothy W. Ross, 36, of Joplin, was arrested at 4:10 p.m. Dec. 3 on charges of felony DWI - persistent offender and no valid license. Ross was incarcerated in the Phelps County Jail on a 12-hour hold. • Meagan R. Exline, 21, of Bland, was arrested at 7:56 p.m. Dec. 2 on charges of DWI and failure to display valid plates. Exline was issued summons and released. • Kolby E. Flathers, 19, of St. James, was arrested at 7:46 p.m. Dec. 1 on charges of minor visibly intoxicated - zero tolerance, speeding, no insurance and no valid plates. Flathers was issued summons and released.

PATROL CRASH REPORT

Photo by Andrew Sheeley Rolla City Clerk Lorri Thurman signs up Mayor Louis Magdits IV as a candidate for next year’s general municipal election Tuesday morning. The election will take place April 5, 2022.

POLICE INCIDENT REPORT According to reports of the Rolla Police Department: • A 62-year-old St. James man in the 1100 block of Kingshighway reported Dec. 6 that a vase valued at $400 had been stolen in the1300 block of South Bishop Avenue. • Injuries were reported Dec. 6 resulting from a one-vehicle crash that occurred in the 500 block of North Bishop Avenue. A 2019 Freightliner, operated by Tony Lee, 28, of South Carolina, was eastbound on Sixth Street when it turned into the parking lot of a private business and struck a retaining wall. The Freightliner sustained disabling damage. Lee was transported to the hospital

via ambulance. • Officers responded Dec. 4 to Phelps Health in reference to a report of a dog bite involving a juvenile. An investigation continues. • Injuries were reported Dec. 3 resulting from a one-vehicle crash that occurred near the intersection of North Bishop Avenue and West Second Street. A 2020 Nissan Rogue, operated by Sherry Feeler, of Rolla, was northbound on North Bishop Avenue when it failed to maintain its lane, crossed into the center turn lane, left the roadway and struck a concrete pillar. Both Nissan occupants were transported to the hospital due to injuries. The Nissan was

towed from the scene due to disabling damage. • Officers responded Dec. 3 to the 600 block of Arkansas Avenue on the report of a runaway juvenile. An investigation continues. • A Rolla woman in the 400 block of East 11th Street reported Dec. 1 that unknown suspect(s) used a rock to break the front passenger window of her vehicle causing approximately $200 or damage. An investigation continues. • A man in the 800 block of South Bishop Avenue reported Nov. 30 that a known man assaulted him and stolen his cell phone valued at $200. An investigation continues.

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According to reports of Troop I of the Missouri State Highway Patrol: • Injuries were reported Monday resulting from a two-vehicle crash that occurred at the 188.8-mile marker of Interstate 44. A 2005 Cadillac CTS, driven by Tabitha M. Juarez, 47, of Rolla, was eastbound at 8:25 a.m. Monday when it changed lanes and struck the rear of a 2018 Freightliner 114SD, driven by James T. Adams, 52, of Lesterville. Juarez received minor injuries in the crash and was transported by EMS to Phelps Health for treatment. The Cadillac sustained moderate damage in the crash and was driven from the scene. The Freightliner sustained no damage. • Injuries were reported Sunday resulting from a onevehicle that occurred at the 193.2-mile marker of Interstate 44. A 2016 Freightliner Cascadia, driven by Zachary A. Camren, 26, of Surprise, Arizona, was westbound at 4:32 a.m. Sunday when it travelled off the left side of the roadway, struck the cable barrier, returned to the road, went off the interstate’s right side, struck an embankment, and overturned. Camren received minor injuries and was taken to Phelps Health via EMS. Passenger Patrick S. Romolt, 49, of San Tan Valley, Arizona, received moderate injuries and was also taken to Phelps Health via EMS. The Freightliner sustained total damage and was removed from the scene by Ron Dishman Towing. • Injuries were reported Friday resulting from a twovehicle that occurred on

CORRECTION A community calendar item in the Dec. 2 edition of Phelps County Focus on the Salem Avenue Baptist Church senior Christmas dinner Dec. 9 was submitted in error. It is a private event and closed to the general public.

Highway 63 near County Road 6050. A 2008 Toyota Scion, driven by Christopher T. Fandel, 29, of Raymondville, was southbound at 5:47 p.m. Friday when it stopped from a vehicle making a turn and was struck in the rear by a 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser, driven by Theresa L. Thebeau, 54, of Edgar Springs. Toyota passenger Jessica C. Fandel, 27, of Raymondville, received minor injuries and was transported for treatment to Phelps Health. Both vehicles sustained moderate damage and were removed from the scene by Lucas Garage. • Injuries were reported Dec. 2 resulting from a twovehicle crash that occurred on Highway 63 near County Road 7240. A 2015 Toyota Corolla, driven by Carrie R. Donahoe, 34, of Newburg, was northbound at 12:39 p.m. Dec. 2 when it failed to yield while turning left onto Highway 63 and collided with a southbound 2010 Ford Expedition, driven by Carl D. Buckner, 66, of Lenox. Buckner received minor injuries in the crash and was taken to Phelps Health for treatment. Ford passenger Brenda K. Buckner, 62, of Lenox, received moderate injuries and was also taken to Phelps Health. Both vehicles sustained total damage and were removed from the scene by D&D Recovery. • Injuries were reported Dec. 2 resulting from a onevehicle crash that occurred on Phelps County Road 2410 one half mile north of St. James. A 2007 Saturn Vue, driven by Monica Clonts, 60, of St. James, was northbound at 12:50 p.m. Dec. 2 when it travelled off the right side of the roadway, overcorrected, travelled off the left side of the road, struck an embankment and overturned. Clonts received minor injuries in the crash and was taken to Phelps Health for treatment. The Saturn sustained total damage and was removed from the scene by Spurgeon’s Towing.

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RICH/Pickleball courts new to the department From Page 1A Among other things, Rich’s department oversees: • The St. James Cemetery • St. James Park • Nelson Hart Park • Tiger Shark Water Park • The Recreation Center, located in Nelson Hart Park • Nelson Hart Community Hall • The Golden Age Building • Nelson Hart fields, courts, playgrounds • Three pavilions and Scout Lodge • Bike trail and Lake Scoito • The St. James train depot (currently closed with maintenance issues) Rich’s office is at the St. James Recreation Center in Nelson Hart Park, which is open Monday-Saturday from 3:30 p.m.-8 p.m. It includes ping pong tables, foosball tables, air hockey tables, and basketball courts. The phone number is 265-6939. In the fall the department offers soccer and flag football to the youth, in the winter basketball leagues are available in several age groups and in the spring and summer the park is full with youth baseball and softball action. “In the winter basketball

will be the prime focus,” Rich said. “Plus, we just put in pickleball courts and we offer a drop-in pickleball competition Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to noon at the rec building. There is some interest in a men’s basketball league. There are a lot of things we want to do. Right now we’re just trying to get going. “And we’re working to build up the Little Tigers program. It’s an instructional program for kids age 3-5. It includes basketball, T-ball, flag football; basically, an instruction program to teach fundamentals of the game. And for these kids, it’s more getting them to socialize with other kids.” Rich estimates a couple hundred youths have taken advantage of the program this past year. There is also a Junior Hoops program for boys and girls ages 6-8. And a Little Cheerleaders program will be starting soon. Contact the park for more information on those activities. “We have youth soccer in the spring and fall,” Rich said. “Last spring we had 350 kids playing soccer and in the fall a couple hundred. In the summer we have youth baseball, softball and T-ball up to junior high. We had enough kids to create

Richland woman killed in Dec. 1 vehicle strike Phelps County Focus A Richland woman lost her life and another was seriously injured Dec. 1 after being struck by a vehicle in Laclede County, according to an online report of Troop I of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Anna Marie R. Kelley, 29, was declared deceased at 6:06 p.m. by Laclede County Coroner Steve Murrell. Her next of kin has been notified. The Troop I report states Kelley and Kenneth L. Harting, 29, of Richland,

were walking in the roadway of Martingale Drive just east of Conway at 5:20 p.m. Wednesday when they were struck by a southbound 1996 Toyota Camry, driven by Ricky D. Langdon, 56, of Conway. Harting received serious injuries in the crash and was flown to Mercy Hospital in Springfield for treatment. The incident is Troop I’s first fatal for December and the 31st for 2021. The Toyota sustained moderate damage and was driven from the scene.

Callaway Livestock Center, Inc. Kingdom City, MO • 573-642-7486 Feeder Cattle Sale every Monday: 12 Noon Slaughter Steers & Heifers Monday: Sell First

FEEDER SALE REPORT – MONDAY, DEC. 6 Monday Receipts - 2904 1682 Steers: Med & Lg. Frame 968 Steers: Med & Lg. Frame Hd Computer Avg - Top Hd Computer Avg - Top 10 - 300 & down 149.00-216.00 16 - 300 & down 133.00-154.00 69 - 300-400 168.00-218.00 111 - 300-400 152.00-180.00 276 - 400-500 171.00-200.00 271 - 400-500 155.00-175.00 526 - 500-600 165.00-194.50 357 - 500-600 153.00-174.00 333 - 600-700 157.00-174.00 146 - 600-700 142.00-163.00 235 - 700-800 155.00-165.50 68 - 700-800 145.00-154.25 228 - 800 - 900 147.00-161.50 26 Bred Cows: 1050.00-1310.00; Others: 800.00-962.00; 8 Pairs: 900.00-2050.00; 183 Slaughter Cows: High Dressing 68.0075.00; Low 46.00-52.00; Bulk 56.00-65.00; Thin 40.00 & down; 29 Slaughter Bulls: 86.00-104.00; Thin 74.00-76.00

WE WILL BE CLOSED MONDAY, DEC. 27 FOR CHRISTMAS Regular Sale - Tues., Dec. 28 | Cow Sale - Jan. 6, 2022

Market Summary - Thurs., Dec. 2, 2021 Special Cow Sale Receipts - 1423 Hd. 310 Pair Better Cows 1st calf hfrs & calves 2350.00-2650.00 3-6 yrs. w/baby to 300lb. calves 1825.00-2250.00 6-8 yrs. w/baby to 300lb. calves 1700.00-2075.00 SS & aged baby to 300lb. calves 1300.00-1400.00 Smaller Frame cows & calves 850.00-1000.00 341 Bred Cows Better 3-6 yrs., 2nd & 3rd period 1300.00-1550.00 3-6 yrs., 1st period 925.00-1000.00 SS & aged 875.00-1000.00 Smaller Frame 650.00-900.00 188 Bred Heifers: Better 1825.00-2025.00, Others 1575.001800.00; 10 Breeding Bulls: Better Bulls 2300.00-3100.00, Others 1000.00-1500.00; 231 Slaughter Cows: High Dressing 67.50-72.50; Bulk 54.00-65.00; Low 42.00-48.00; Thin 40.00 & down; 33 Slaughter Bulls: 84.00-95.00; Thin 70.00-80.00 Roger Temmen (573) 680-4538

Jack Harrison (573) 999-7197

John P. Harrison Claude Neimeyer Jarrod Simpson (573) 220-1482 (573) 470-1017 (573) 247-0786

Justin Oberling Wayne McCluggage Glenn Stegman (573) 619-8495 (573) 473-6314 (217) 440-7724

Lynn Crouch (417) 399-4148

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Market Report: (573) 522-9244 - 24 Hour Recording Please visit our website www.callawaylivestock.com

teams for all age groups this past year. I’ve been told we haven’t been able to do that for a while.” Baseball and softball are particularly close to Rich’s heart. She has been the Commissioner for USA Softball of Missouri the past two years. USA Softball (formerly known as the Amateur Softball Association) is a volunteerdriven, non-profit organization that offers both youth fast-pitch softball as well as adult slow-pitch softball. There was a time St.

James played host to some of the highest caliber slowpitch softball tournaments in the state. And Rich would like to see the community again be a force in the slow-pitch game. Since the city re-opened much of the athletic events that were closed in 2020 due to COVID, Rich put small men’s and coed leagues in place this past summer. But before adult softball can grow, some upgrades must be done. “We have nets up on the south and west fields (at

Nelson Hart Park), to try and keep balls from hitting the homes behind the fields,” Rich said. “But the way people hit with the bats and balls that are out there now, I think we have to have some Top Golf type netting and poles. And that will probably be terribly expensive. Plus, there is an umpire shortage statewide. There is some work to do.” In addition, the parks department works closely with the St. James Sports Club, an organization that has provided athletic op-

portunities to the community’s youth for decades. “The St. James Sports Club is a good partner; it’s been very supportive,” Rich said. “The club has sponsored a lot of things to get new equipment for baseball and softball. They’re all about the kids too. Bruce Courtney is a longtime board member and J.R. Marcus was the original park director here. I talk to those two quite a little bit. If I have questions about anything at Nelson Hart Park, I place a call to J.R.”

NOTICE OF FILING OF FINAL SETTLEMENT AND PETITION FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY, MISOURI PROBATE DIVISION JUDGE: RONALD D. WHITE Estate Number: 18PH-PR00438 IN THE ESTATE OF: NORMA A. KLARNER, DECEASED TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF NORMA A. KLARNER, DECEASED: You are hereby notified that the undersigned Personal Representative will file a Final Settlement and Order of Distribution in the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri, Probate Division on January 5,

2022 (at least 29 days from first publication, at least 7 days from last publication, but on a day courts are open), or as continued by the Court; that objections to the final settlement shall be in writing and shall be filed within 20 twenty days. Vincent R. Krekeler Supervised Personal Representative 11647 Gravois Rd, Su 100 St. Louis, MO 63126 Vincent R. Krekeler Attorney for the Estate 11647 Grevois Rd, Su 100 St. Louis, MO 63126 314-842-7331 (Published in Phelps County Focus Dec. 9, 16, 23, 30, 2021)

TRUSTEE’S SALE IN RE: Eric McCarthy and Jessica McCarthy, Husband and Wife Trustee’s Sale: For default in payment of debt and performance of obligation secured by Deed of Trust executed by Eric McCarthy and Jessica McCarthy, Husband and Wife dated July 8, 2020 and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Phelps County, Missouri as Document No. 2020-3314 the undersigned Successor Trustee, at the request of the legal holder of said Note will on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., (at the specific time of 9:40 AM), at the North Front Door of the Court House, City of Rolla, County of Phelps, State of Missouri, sell at public vendue to the highest bidder for cash the following described real estate, described in said Deed of Trust, and situated in Phelps County, State of Missouri, to wit: THE CORRECT DESCRIPTION APPEARS IN PHELPS CO. SURVEYOR?S [SURVEYOR’S] RECORD BK. "C" SUPPLEMENT AT PAGE 566, BEING A SURVEY DATED AUG. 9, 1963 PERFORMED BY CLAIR V. MANN, MO. REG. LAND SURVEYOR LS 22 AND SAID CORRECT LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS IS AS FOLLOWS: A FRACTIONAL PART OF THE NW1/4 OF THE NE1/4 OF SEC 19 IN TWP. 38N., IN RNG. 6 W. OF THE 5TH P.M. IN CITY OF ST. JAMES, COUNTY OF PHELPS, STATE OF MO. AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS, TO WIT: BEGINNING AT THE NE CORNER OF THE NW1/4 OF NE1/4 OF SAID SEC. 19, TWP, 38N RNG. 6 W. THENCE S. 20.0 FEET TO A 5"X 5" STONE MONUMENT, WITH 4" CROSS, THENCE ON S. LINE OF PARKER LANE (TOWARD CONCRETE POST 1X1X5 FT. FOR CORNER B) S. 89 DEGREES 29' W. (42.4 AND 92.4 FT. TO ST. CORNER) A TOTAL DISTANCE OF 257.4 FEET TO CORNER "N" (SAID CORNER "N" BEING THE NE CORNER OF THE RUTH K. HODGE TRACT) THENCE CONTINUING S. 89 DEGREES 29' W. ALONG THE N. LINE OF THE RUTH K. HODGE TRACT A DISTANCE OF 90.0 FT. TO CORNER (A) SAID CORNER (A) BEING THE NW CORNER OF THE RUTH K. HODGE TRACT AND ALSO BEING THE NE CORNER OF THE AGNES WHITE TRACT AND SAID CORNER (A) BEING THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THE TRACT OF LAND HEREINAFTER DESCRIBED; THENCE CONTINUING S. 89 DEGREES 29' W. 60.0 FT. TO CORNER "O" BEING THE NW CORNER OF THE AGNES WHITE TRACT AND SAID CORNER "O" ALSO BEING ON THE E. RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF WASHINGTON ST. THENCE 00 DEGREES 29' E. ALONG THE EAST SIDE OF SAID WASHINGTON ST. 91.00 FT. TO CORNER (B) THENCE N. 89 DEGREES 31' E. 60.0 FT. TO CORNER (D) BEING THE SE CORNER OF THE AGNES WHITE TRACT AND ALSO BEING THE SW CORNER OF THE RUTH K. HODGE TRACT, THENCE N. 0 DEGREES 29' W. 9108 [91.08] FT. TO CORNER (A) AS AFORESAID BEING A POINT ON THE S. RIGHT OF WAY OF PARKER LANE AND SAID POINT BEING THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING AS AFORESAID. STEEL PIN 1' X 36" DRIVEN FOR CORNERS G-N-G-

H-0 [O] , AND PINS 5/8" X 24" FOR CORNERS A-B-D-E-F. BEARINGS TURNED FROM SOUTH EDGE NORTH SLAB, HIGHWAY 66, OPPOSITE STATION 14968/66.8 OF CENTER LINE. TRACT N-G-0 [O] WAS FORMERLY OWNED BY MRS. C.R. PIPER, WHO OWNED TRACT N-F-D-A. AREA DEED CALLED FOR WAS A TRACT OF 150 FT. X 150 FT. BUT IN BLOCK IN WHICH THIS TRACT LIES, THERE IS AN EXCESS OF 4.0 FEET ON EAST LINE, AND 3.4 FEET ON WEST LINE. TRACT IS, THEREFORE, 151.71 FEET LONG ON WEST, AND 152.01 FEET ON THE EAST, AS PLAT (SURVEY C SUPPLEMENT, PAGE 566) SHOWS. FURTHER NOTE: THE ABOVE PLAT BY CLAIR V. MANN WAS DATED AUGUST 9TH, 1963. NOTE THAT SAID PLAT STATES THAT THE DISTANCE FROM THE NORTHWEST [NORTHEAST] CORNER OF THE NW 1/4 OF NE 1/4 TO CORNER "N" (BEING THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE ORIGINAL "PIPER" TRACT) IS SHOWN AS SOUTH 89 DEGREES 29 WEST, 257.4 FEET, AND THE EAST BOUNDARY LINE OF THE "PIPER" TRACT ABUTS AN ALLEY WHICH IS SHOWN ON SAID PLAT AS BEING 15 FEET IN WIDTH. PHELPS COUNTY SURVEYOR'S RECORDS BOOK "E" AT PAGE S-1159, DATED JUNE 15TH, 1970 BY R.L. ELGIN & ASSOCIATES IS A SURVEY OF THE EVERETT HATCHER TRACT WHICH ALSO ABUTS THE SOUTH LINE OF PARKER LANE AND WHICH LIES ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE 15 FEET WIDE ALLEY ABOVE MENTIONED. SAID SURVEY BOOK "E", PAGE S-1159, SHOWS THE FOLLOWING DISTANCES FROM THE NORTHEAST (NE) CORNER OF SAID NW1/4 OF NE1/4-92.40 FEET TO NE CORNER OF HATCHER TRACT-150.0 FEET WIDTH ALONG NORTH LINE OF HATCHER TRACT-15.0 FEET WIDE ALLEY ON WEST SIDE OF HATCHER TRACT -TOTAL DISTANCE = 92.4 + 150.0 + 15.0 = 257.40 FEET - BEING EXACTLY THE SAME DISTANCE AS SHOWN ON THE CLAIR V. MANN SURVEY TO REACH THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF THE "PIPER" TRACT. EXCEPT ALL LEGALLY ESTABLISHED ROADS, HIGHWAYS AND EASEMENTS EXISTING OR OF RECORD.[THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN BRACKETS HAS BEEN ADDED TO MORE ACCURATELY REFLECT THE LEGAL DESCRIPTION]. to satisfy said debt and cost. MILLSAP & SINGER, P.C., Successor Trustee 612 Spirit Drive St. Louis, MO 63005 (636) 537-0110 File No: 206804.121521.417063 FC 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. (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 18, 25; Dec. 2, 9, 2021)

PUBLIC NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE DOOLITTLE RURAL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT P.O. Box D, Newburg, MO 65550

The Doolittle Rural Fire Protection District will accept declaration of candidacy for two seats available on the Fire Board in the April 5, 2022 election. Filing begins 8:00 am Dec. 7 and ending at 5:00 pm Dec. 28, 2021. The two Fire Board seats available are one (1) six (6)-year term and one (1) four (4)-year term. Persons interested must be 25 years of age, at least a one-year resident of Doolittle Rural Fire Protection District, and current on all taxes as of election date. Interested persons may file at the Doolittle Fire Department, address: 281 Bauman Street Doolittle, MO. Dec. 7 at 8:00 am until 10:00 am, Dec. 14 at 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm and Dec. 28 at 4:00 pm to closing at 5:00 pm. Contact 573-762-2188 for more information. Debra S. Barnes DRFPD Secretary (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 18, 25; Dec. 2, 9, 2021) NOTICE OF GENERAL ELECTION ROLLA RURAL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to the qualified voters of the Rolla Rural Fire Protection District of Phelps County, Missouri, that the Election of one (1) Director to the Board for a six-year term will be held on Tuesday, the fifth (5th) day of April, 2022. A person, to be qualified to serve as a Director, shall be a voter of the District at least one year before the election, current on all taxes and be over the age of 24 years. Declarations of Candidacy shall be filed at the headquarters of Rolla Rural Fire Protection District at 1575 East Lions Club Drive in Rolla, Missouri, by paying a ($50.00) filing fee and filing a statement that such person possesses the required qualifications. The headquarters of the Rolla Rural Fire Protection District will accept candidacies from December 7, 2021 through December 28, 2021. The headquarters will be open on December 7, 2021 from 8:00 A.M to 5:00 P.M, and will be open Monday through Friday through December 23, 2021 and December 27 through December 28, 2021 from 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. The headquarters of the Rolla Rural Fire Protection District will be closed December 24, 2021 in observance of Christmas. The office hours on December 28, 2021 will be 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Jeff Breen, Chairman Board of Directors (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 18, 25; Dec. 2, 9, 2021) NOTICE OF LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION GRANTED (Supervised Administration) IN THE 25TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT, PHELPS COUNTY, MISSOURI Judge: Kenneth G Clayton Case Number: 21PH-PR00456 In the Estate of ROY V DAVIS JR, Deceased. To All Persons Interested in the Estate of ROY V DAVIS JR, Decedent: On 22-NOV-2021, the following individual was appointed the personal representative of the estate of ROY V DAVIS JR, decedent, by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri. The personal representative's business address is: MATTHEW ROY DAVIS, 1407 IOWA ST., ROLLA, MO 65401. The personal representative's attorney's name, business address and phone number are: EMILY LYN WOODWARD GUFFEY, 901 North Pine Street, Rolla, MO 65401, 573341-2266. All creditors of said decedent are notified to file claims in court within

six months from the date of the first publication of this notice or if a copy of this notice was mailed to, or served upon, such creditor by the personal representative, then within two months from the date it was mailed or served, whichever is later, or be forever barred to the fullest extent permissible by law. Such sixmonth period and such two-month period do not extend the limitation period that would bar claims one year after the decedent's death, as provided in Section 473.444, RSMo, or any other 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 the decedent's death: 10-SEP-2021 Date of first publication: 09-DEC-2021 Sonja Childers, Circuit Clerk By:/s/Adele Hollingsworth, Chief Division Probate Clerk (Published in Phelps County Focus Dec. 9, 16, 23, 30, 2021)

NOTICE OF LETTERS TESTAMENTARY GRANTED (Independent Administration) IN THE 25TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT, PHELPS COUNTY, MISSOURI Judge or Division: KENNETH G CLAYTON Case Number: 21PH-PR00452 In the Estate of LORA MARIE KILLIAN, Deceased. To All Persons Interested in the Estate of LORA MARIE KILLIAN, Decedent: On 03-NOV-2021, the last will of the decedent having been admitted to probate, the following individual was appointed the personal representative of the estate of LORA MARIE KILLIAN, decedent, by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Phelps 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 business address of the personal representative is: CHRISTOPHER M KILLIAN, 11750 FOREST LAKE DRIVE, ROLLA, MO 65401 The personal representative's attorney's name, business address

and phone number are: DAVlD OSBORNE, 1100 North Elm Street, P.O. Box 248, ROLLA, MO 65402-0248, 573-364-4097. All creditors of said decedent are notified to file claims in court within six months from the date of the first publication of this notice or if a copy of this notice was mailed to, or served upon, such creditor by the personal representative, then within two months from the date it was mailed or served, whichever is later, or be forever barred to the fullest extent permissible by law. Such sixmonth period and such two-month period do not extend the limitation period that would bar claims one year after the decedent's death, as provided in Section 473.444, RSMo, or any other 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 the decedent's death: 05-AUG-2021 Date of first publication: 18-NOV-2021 Sonja Childers, Circuit Clerk By:/s/Adele Hollingsworth, Chief Division Probate Clerk (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 18, 25; Dec. 2, 9, 2021)

phelpscountyfocus.com

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

News

Food drive at Sakelaris Ford Lincoln of Rolla Phelps County Focus Sakelaris Ford Lincoln of Rolla will host its annual Fill-a-Ford food drive this holiday season. The charitable effort collects truckloads of donated nonperishable food items for area churches and food banks.

The 2021 campaign also continues an annual ritual, which goes back more than 30 years. “This is a wonderful tradition that we are proud to continue each year,” says Rolla Sakelaris general manager Al Morgan. “Each year each location fills a

truck up, but we can always use more. Everyone needs help at this time of the year.” Fill-a-Ford donations can be dropped off at Sakelaris Ford Lincoln of Rolla, located at 1621 Martin Springs Drive. They will be accepted this year until

Dec. 23. Truckload deliveries will be made on Christmas Eve to locations across Phelps County and towns as far away as Dixon, Salem, and Licking. “Our two detail guys make the deliveries,” says Rolla Sakelaris office manager Lori Eyberg “They sort it all out as much as they can so they don’t give everybody just mac and cheese, and things like that. When they pull into those places, they are always so excited.” Cash donations are also accepted as part of the Filla-Ford campaign. The mon-

ey collected will be used to purchase bulk groceries at local supermarkets. “They’re usually willing to give us a really good discount for large quantities of groceries,” Eyberg says. “We try to keep the purchasing here and local with the cash donations that we get. We’ve already had two pretty large donations. A gentleman yesterday gave me $1,000 in cash. I had someone else come in to give us $500.” For more information about this year’s Fill-aFord campaign contact Sakelaris Ford at 3641211.

COURT REPORT

According to reports of Missouri’s 25th Judicial Circuit: • Michael E. Henson was charged in a Dec. 2 warrant with one felony count of failure to register as a sex offender. • Jerry W. Birdsong Jr. was charged in a Nov. 30 warrant with one felony count of unlawful use of a weapon. • Barry D. Eggers was charged in a Nov. 30 warrant with one felony count of second-degree burglary. • Jerry A. Gamblin was charged in a Nov. 30 warrant with one felony count of second-degree burglary.

DNR offers grants for agricultural improvements Photo by Andrew Sheeley The public in encouraged to bring nonperishable food items to Sakelaris Ford Lincoln of Rolla this month as part of its annual Fill-a-Ford food drive. Present for the announcement Dec. 2 were Sakelaris Ford employees, from left, Terry Betz, Jon Reed, Harlee Bell, Al Morgan and Ben Tinker.

PUBLIC NOTICES

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY, MISOURI PROBATE DIVISION Case Number: 21PH-PR00399 IN THE MATTER OF JANET SUE HONSE INC/DSB TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JANET SUE HONSE, A DISABLED PERSON. On the 25th day of October, 2021, Harlen Honse was appointed conservator of the estate of Janet Sue Honse, a person found by the court to be disabled under the laws of Missouri by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri. The business address of the conservator’s Attorney – Tyce S Smith – is Post Office Box 494, Waynesville, Missouri 65583 All creditors of said disabled person are notified to file their claims in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court or be forever barred. Date of first publication November 25, 2021. /s/Robert Gale, Deputy Clerk Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 25; Dec. 2, 9, 16, 2021) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY, MISOURI PROBATE DIVISION Case Number: 21PH-PR00033 IN THE MATTER OF JOSEPH MICHAEL ROSS INC/DSB TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH MICHAEL ROSS, A DISABLED PERSON. On the 2nd day of June, 2021, James Ross and Nichole Ross were appointed co-conservators of the estate of Joseph Michael Ross, a person found by the court to be disabled under the laws of Missouri by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri. The business address of the co-conservators’ Attorney – Robyn Strange – is 112 A N. SPILMAN AVE ROLLA, MO 65401 All creditors of said disabled person are notified to file their claims in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court or be forever barred. Date of first publication November 18, 2021. /s/Robert Gale, Deputy Clerk Probate Division (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 18, 25; Dec. 2, 9, 2021)

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY, MISOURI PROBATE DIVISION Case Number: 21PH-PR00448 IN THE MATTER OF LOYD DWANE DAVIS INC/DSB TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF LOYD DWANE DAVIS, A DISABLED PERSON. On the 8th day of November, 2021, Shirley F Davis was appointed conservator of the estate of Loyd D Davis, a person found by the court to be disabled under the laws of Missouri by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Phelps, County, Missouri. The business address of the conservator’s attorney – Stephen Daniels – is 208 N. Elm Street, Rolla, Missouri 65401. All creditors of said disabled person are notified to file their claims in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court or be forever barred. Date of first publication December 9, 2021. Sonja Childers Circuit Clerk /s/Robert Gale, Deputy Clerk (Published in Phelps County Focus Dec. 9, 16, 23, 30, 2021)

NOTICE UPON ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY, MISSOURI Case No. 21PH-PR00440 In the Interest of: JETTY BENJAMIN METZLER, BRYAN WELLS, Petitioner, vs. SHANNON WELLS AND RONALD METZLER, Respondents. TO: RONALD METZLER You are hereby notified that an action for Guardianship has been commenced in the Circuit Court, County of Phelps, by Petition, the object and general nature of which is to obtain a Judgement of Guardianship.

The names of all of the parties to said suit are stated above in the caption hereof and the name and address of the attorney for petitioner is Carrie Gerischer, 117 East 4th Street, Salem, Missouri 65560. 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 of November 25, 2021 judgment by default will be rendered against you. Witness by hand and seal of the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri this 17th day of November,2021. Sonja Childers by /s/ Robert Gale - Probate (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 25; Dec. 2, 9, 16, 2021)

NOTICE UPON ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY, MISSOURI Case No.21PH-PR00493 In the Matter of: A.S., Minor Child TO: JOHN ALFRED SISK You are hereby notified that an action has been commenced in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri, the object and general nature of which is a request on the part of Toni Bailey for guardianship of A.S., minor child, DOB 04/29/2009, and it is alleged by affadivit that the natural father’s whereabouts is unknown and that he can be served only by publication of notice. The names of all of the parties to said suit are: A.S., minor child; John Alfred Sisk, natural father; Dee Ann

Sisk, natural mother; Toni Bailey, Petitioner; the name and address of the attorneys for Petitioner, THOMAS, BIRDSONG, MILLS, MCBRIDE & OSBORNE, P.C., 1100 North Elm Street, Rolla, Missouri, 65401. You are hereby notified that unless you file an answer or other pleading or shall otherwise appear and defend against the aforesaid petition within forty five days after the 25th day of November 2021, judgment by default will be rendered against you insofar as your interests appear in this suit. Witness by hand and seal of the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri, Probate Division, this 12th day of November, 2021. Sonja Childers by /s/ Robert Gale (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 25; Dec. 2, 9, 16, 2021)

NOTICE UPON ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY, MISSOURI Case No.21PH-PR00492 In the Matter of: K.S., Minor Child TO: JOHN ALFRED SISK You are hereby notified that an action has been commenced in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri, the object and general nature of which is a request on the part of Toni Bailey for guardianship of K.S., minor child, DOB 02/10/2007, and it is alleged by affadivit that the natural father’s whereabouts is unknown and that he can be served only by publication of notice. The names of all of the parties to said suit are: K.S., minor child; John Alfred Sisk, natural father; Dee Ann

NOTICE ON ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY, MISSOURI Case No. 21PH-PR00205 In the Matter of: NIKKI MICHELLE LIVERMORE Minor Child, CHARLOTTE MARTIN Petitioner, vs. CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNT, MISSOURI, PROBATE DIVISION, Respondent. TO: JOSEPH HARSHKEMP You are hereby notified that an action for Guardianship of a Minor Child, Nikki Michelle Livermore, has been commenced in the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri, by Petition, the object and general nature of which is for the guardianship of the minor child, Nikki Michelle Livermore by Charlotte Martin, Petitioner. The names of the parties of said suit are: Nikki Michelle Livermore, minor child; Joseph Harshkemp, Natural Father; Rachel Michelle

Livermore; and, Charlotte Martin, Petitioner. The name and address of the attorney for Petitioner is Robyn R. Strange, Strange Law Firm, LLC, whose office is located at 112A North Spilman Avenue, Rolla, Missouri 65401. You are further notified that, unless you file an answer or other pleading or shall otherwise appear and defend against the aforesaid Petition within forty five (45) days after the 2nd day of December, 2021, judgment by default will be rendered against you, and a judgement of guardianship rendered in accordance with the Petition filed herein. Witness by hand and seal of the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri, County of Phelps, this 1st day of November, 2021. /s/ Robert Gale Deputy Clerk

Missouri Department of Natural Resources The Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Energy is accepting grant applications now through Feb. 28 to reimburse farmers for energysaving equipment through its Energize Missouri Agriculture Program. The department is offering up to $3 million in cost-share grants to agricultural operations for energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy equipment. Funds will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to qualified applicants. “The Energize Missouri Agriculture Program is an important resource available to our farmers and livestock producers around

Adele Hollingsworth Probate Clerk, Phelps County, Missouri (Published in Phelps County Focus Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 2021)

phelpscountyfocus.com

the state,” said Craig Redmon, director of the Division of Energy. “By upgrading to more energy-efficient equipment, our agricultural community will be able to enjoy enhanced energy savings benefits.” The program will reimburse approved applicants up to 75% or a maximum of $7,500 of the purchase cost (excluding time and labor costs) of qualifying energy-saving equipment and systems per applicant. Some examples of eligible projects include solar-powered watering systems and fencers, irrigation upgrades, GPS systems for tractors and applicators, ventilation and insulation. Anyone interested in more information or applying for the Energize

Missouri Agriculture Program should visit dnr.mo.gov/energy/energyloans/energize-missouriagriculture-program for more details. Purchases made prior to signing the terms and conditions agreement will not qualify for reimbursement. Those without internet access may obtain a paper application form by contacting the department by phone at 751-2254 or 855522-2796 or email at energizemoag@dnr.mo.gov. The Energize Missouri Agriculture Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and is part of the funds managed by the department’s Division of Energy.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

News

Civilian employee at FLW joins legal battle to oppose Biden’s vaccine mandate Phelps County Focus Civilian employees of the United States Department of Defense, including one employed at Fort Leonard Wood, have filed a lawsuit challenging the federal employee vaccine mandate imposed by President Biden’s recent executive order, according to a press release sent by the Hammond and Shinners, P.C. “The complaint alleges that forcing employees to take the COVID-19 vaccination against their will violates their right to control medical decisions, as well as a provision in the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act which makes administration of vaccines which

are subject to ‘emergency use authorization’ voluntary,” says the release. “The suit also asserts that the mandate violates the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which reserves to the states’ control over matters concerning public health, and is in excess of the powers granted to the president by congressional legislation.” The plaintiff from Fort Leonard Wood is employed as a licensed practical nurse, whose duties include vaccine administration. “She asserts that forcing her to vaccinate employees against their wills would expose her to potential violation of medical ethics

State releases November general revenue report

standards,” says the release. Robert Mooney, president of Local 908 of the American Federation of Government Employees, (the union which represents civilian employees at Fort Leonard Wood) said that his group is backing the lawsuit, according to the release. “Many of our members oppose the vaccine for different reasons,” Mooney said. “We believe that forcing employees to take the vaccine against their will, or risk losing their jobs, is a violation of their individual rights and is an overreach by the federal government. This is the wrong way to address COVID-19.”

State budget director Dan Haug announced Dec. 6 that net general revenue collections for Nov. 2021 increased 19.0 percent compared to those for Nov. 2020, from $811.1 million last year to $965.5 million this year. Net general revenue collections for 2022 fiscal yearto-date decreased 0.7 percent compared to November 2020, from $4.53 billion last year to $4.50 billion this year. Gross Collections by Tax Type: Individual income tax collections •Decreased 5.8 percent for the year, from $3.42 bil-

NOTICE OF FILING OF FINAL SETTLEMENT AND PETITION FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY MISSOURI PROBATE DIVISION In the Estate of: NANCY ELLEN FRANKLIN, DECEASED. Estate No. 17PH-PR00459 Notice is hereby given that a final settlement and petition for determination of the persons who are successors in interest to the personal and real property of the decedent and of the extent and character of their interests therein and for distribution of such property will be filed in the Probate Division of the Cir-

cuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri by the undersigned on JULY 27, 2021 or as continued by the court and that any objections or exceptions to such settlement or petition or any item thereof must be in writing and filed on or before January 5th, 2022. The Personal Representative’s name and address Cynthia Jones 1515 MEADOW CIRCLE LANE, PACIFIC, MO 63069. The name and address of the personal representatitive’s attorney is Steven A. Levy, #61339, 606 W. Washington Street, Cuba, Missouri 65453. (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 25; Dec. 2, 9, 16, 2021)

Missouri Office of Administration

lion last year to $3.22 billion this year. •Increased 20.4 percent for the month. Sales and use tax collections •Increased 19.9 percent for the year, from $983.0 million last year to $1.18 billion this year. •Increased 21.9 percent for the month. Corporate income and corporate franchise tax collections •Decreased 10.8 percent for the year, from $289.2 million last year to $258.0 million this year. •Increased 27.0 percent for the month. All other collections •Increased 8.7 percent for the year, from $192.1 million

last year to $208.9 million this year. •Increased 5.8 percent for the month. Refunds •Increased 4.4 percent for the year, from $346.9 million last year to $362.2 million this year. •Increased 34.0 percent for the month. Due to the COVID pandemic, the 2020 income tax filing deadlines in April and June were moved to July 15, 2020. Therefore, the comparison of FY21 to FY22 will be negatively impacted throughout FY22. The figures included in the monthly general revenue report represent a snapshot in time and can vary widely based on a multitude of factors.

PUBLIC NOTICES CITY OF ROLLA POLICE DEPARTMENT BID NOTICE City of Rolla Police Department is accepting sealed bids until 11am on December 29, 2021 on: One (1) new 2022 model year, all wheel drive Mid-Size SUV. Bid documents and instructions can be obtained from Captain Jason Smith at the Rolla Police Department, 1007 N. Elm Street or Lorri Thurman at Rolla City Hall, located at 901 N. Elm Street. (Published in Phelps County Focus Dec. 9, 2021) NOTICE OF HEARING IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY, MISSOURI PROBATE DIVISION Case No. 21PH-PR00417 Leon Kridelbaugh, AND Curt Kridelbaugh Petitioners, v. Alan Lee Kridelbaugh, and UNKNOWN HEIRS OF Brian Dean Kridelbaugh, Respondents. To all persons who claim any interest in the property of Brian Dean Kridelbaugh, deceased, as an heir of said decedent or through any heir of said decedent: You are hereby notified that a Petition has been filed in the above court by Leon Kridelbaugh and Curt Kridelbaugh, for the determination of the heirs of Brian Dean Kridelbaugh, deceased, and of their respective interests as such heirs in and with respect to the following

described property owned by said decedent at the time of death, towit: HOUSEHOLD GOODS VALUING $1,000.00 AND CASH VALUING $4,566.00, TOTALING $5,566.00 Petitioner’s attorney is David A. Osborne, whose business address is 1100 N. Elm, P.O. Box 248, Rolla, MO 65402. You are hereby required to appear to answer said petition on February 7, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri at which time and place said petition will be heard. Should you fail therein, judgment may be entered in due course upon said petition. Sonja Childers, Circuit Clerk By:/s/Adele Hollingsworth, Chief Division Probate Clerk (Published in Phelps County Focus Dec. 9, 16, 23, 30, 2021)

NOTICE UPON ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY, MISSOURI Case No.21PH-PR00508 In the Matter of: L.J., Presently 7 months old Minor Child NATHAN ELLIS AND DALTON HENRY Petitioners. The State of Missouri to unknown father: You are hereby notified that an action has been commenced against you in the Circuit Court for the County of Phelps, Missouri, the object and general nature of which is Petition for Appointment of CoGuardians fo Minor which affects the following minor child, LJ, a minor female child, presently 6 months old. The names of all parties to said

action are stated above in the caption hereof and the name and address of the attorney for Petitioners, Nathan Ellis and Dalton Henry is Jeffrey Thomas, Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 4076, Waynesville, Missouri 65583. 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 2nd day of December, 2021, judgment by default will be rendered against you. Withness my hand and the seal fo the Circuit Court this 17th day of November, 2021. Sonja Childers Circuit Clerk By /s/ Robert Gale Deputy Circuit Clerk (Published in Phelps County Focus Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23, 2021)

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Today! Contact Phelps

County Focus: 573-426-3700 or by email at contact@ phelpscounty focus.com

NOTICE OF FILING OF FINAL SETTLEMENT AND PETITION FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY, MISOURI PROBATE DIVISION Estate Number: 20PH-PR00046 IN THE ESTATE OF: CHARLOTTE ANNE THIEL, DECEASED TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF CHARLOTTE ANNE THIEL, DECEDENT: Notice is hereby given that a final settlement and petition for determination of the persons who are the successors in interest to the personal and real property of the decedent and of the extent and character of their interests therein and for distribution of such property, will be filed in the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri, by the undersigned on January 10, 2022, or as continued by the Court and that any objections or exceptions to such settlement or petition or any item thereof must be in writing and filed within twenty (20) days after the filing of such settlement. Stephen P. Thiel, Personal Representative 1502 Coventry Lane Rolla, Missouri 65401 Mark Weaver Attorney for Personal Representative Post Office Box 418 Salem, Missouri 65560 573-729-3127 (Published in Phelps County Focus Dec. 9, 16, 23, 30, 2021)

SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION NOTICE The Phelps County R-III School District encourages qualified persons interested in running for a position on the School Board to file to be a candidate in the April 5, 2022 election. Interested persons may file at the district office located at 17790 State Route M in Edgar Springs. For more information, contact Superintendent John Fluhrer at (573) 435-6293. Filing will begin on December 7 at 8:00 am and will continue during the district’s regular business hours, which are Tuesday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Except for the first and last day of filing, filing will not occur on days that the school is closed due to inclement weather. Filing will also not occur during Winter Break from December 17 at noon through December 27 when the school district's office is closed. Filing will end on December 28 at 5:00 pm. There are two positions available with three-year terms. (Published in Phelps County Focus Dec. 2, 9, 2021)

SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS (Public Notice of Filing) The Newburg R-2 School District encourages qualified persons interested in running for a position on the school board to file to be a candidate in the April 5, 2022, election. Interested persons may file at the superintendent's offices located at 701 Wolf Pride Drive, Newburg, MO. Filing will begin on December 07, 2021, at 8:00 a.m. and will continue during the district's regular business hours, which are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Filing will not occur on days that the school district's central offices are closed due to inclement weather. Filing will also not occur on the following holidays and breaks when the school district's central offices are closed: December 20-27, 2021. Filing will end on December 28, 2021, from 12:00-5:00 p.m. There are 2 positions available with three-year terms. (Published in Phelps County Focus Dec. 9, 2021)

Candidate Filing for Dent Phelps R-III Board of Education Candidates for positions on the Dent-Phelps R-III Board of Education may file for office during the following days and hours: Tuesday, December 7, 2021 through Thursday, December 16, 2021, 8 am to 3:30 p.m. Friday, December 17 – 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tuesday, December 28 – 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Qualified voters will be electing two (2) board members for terms of three (3) years each. Anyone wishing to file for one of these positions must file a declaration as a candidate in person with the secretary in the office of the Superintendent. (Office will be closed when school is not in session due to bad weather.) Pursuant to RSMO, Section 162.203, all new members will be required to attend an 18.5-hour training session. A one-hour refresher training is also required annually, after the first year. (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, 2021)

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE Default having been made in the payment of a promissory note described in and secured by a deed of trust executed by Jackie M Sansoucie, as grantor(s) and owner(s), dated December 14, 2012, and recorded December 21, 2012, as Document No. 2012-7104, with the Phelps County Recorder’s Office, conveying to J. Kent Robinson, as Trustee, the following described property located in Phelps County, Missouri, to-wit: A fractional part of the Southwest Quarter (SW¼) of the Southwest Quarter (SW¼) of Section Twenty (20) in Township Thirty-Nine (39) North in Range Six (6) West of the 5th P.M. in Phelps County, Missouri, and more particularly described as follows, to-wit: Commencing at the Northeast (NE) Corner of the SW¼ of the SW¼ of said Section 20, thence South 2°48' West, 277.40 feet along the East line of said quarter quarter to the true point of beginning of the tract hereinafter described: Thence continuing South 2°48' West, 980.0 feet along said East line of quarter quarter, thence South 85°55' West, 21.25 feet to the East Right of Way of Missouri State Supplementary Highway Route "EE" (a/k/a Phelps County Route "EE"), thence North 25°08' West, 397.14 feet to a right of way marker at P.I. at Station 105+00.0, and, North 27°59' West, 735.35 feet, all along said East right of way of Highway "EE", thence South 86°49' East, 584.13 feet to the true point of beginning. According to Survey recorded in Phelps County Surveyor's Records in Book "F" at Page S-2046 by R.L. Elgin and Associates, Engineers & Surveyors, Rolla, Missouri. (Tract B) at the request of the legal holder of said note and in accordance with the provisions of said deed of trust, the undersigned, J. Kent Robinson, as the duly appointed trustee, will on December 17, 2021, beginning at the hour of 1:00 o'clock p.m. or as soon thereafter as time permits, sell said property at public vendue to the highest bidder for cash at the Front Door of the Phelps County Courthouse, 200 North Main Street, Rolla, MO 65401, to satisfy said note and costs. J. Kent Robinson, Trustee 718 N. Pine Street Rolla, MO 65401 (573) 364-5202 (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 25; Dec. 2, 9, 16, 2021)

phelpscountyfocus.com

NOTICE OF LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION GRANTED (Independent Administration) IN THE 25TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COURT, PHELPS COUNTY, MISSOURI Judge: Kenneth G Clayton Case Number: 21PH-PR00457 In the Estate of RUSSELL ROBERT CONYERS, Deceased. To All Persons Interested in the Estate of RUSSELL ROBERT CONYERS, Decedent: On 03-NOV-2021, the following individual was appointed the personal representative of the estate of RUSSELL ROBERT CONYERS, decedent, by the Probate Division of the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri. The personal representative's business address is: KIMBERLY MAGNOLIA CONYERS, 3824 BELL ST., APT. 1, KANSAS CITY, MO 64111. 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 personal representative's attorney's name, business address and phone number are: HERBERT C WILLBRAND, HERBERT C WILLBRAND LAW FIRM, LLC, 601

E BROADWAY, SUITE 203, PO BOX 1304, COLUMBIA, MO 65205, 573-442-3181. All creditors of said decedent are notified to file claims in court within six months from the date of the first publication of this notice or if a copy of this notice was mailed to, or served upon, such creditor by the personal representative, then within two months from the date it was mailed or served, whichever is later, or be forever barred to the fullest extent permissible by law. Such sixmonth period and such two-month period do not extend the limitation period that would bar claims one year after the decedent's death, as provided in Section 473.444, RSMo, or any other 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 the decedent's death: 31AUG-2021 Date of first publication: 24-NOV2021 Sonja Childers, Circuit Clerk By:/s/Adele Hollingsworth, Chief Division Probate Clerk (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 25; Dec. 2, 9, 16, 2021)

NOTICE UPON ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF PHELPS COUNTY, MISSOURI Case Number: 21PH-CV01692 CARL J. STEINER and ASHLEY STEINER, husband and wife Plaintiffs, vs. BEVERLY BISHOP, and RHONDA STROUP and ROGER STROUP and JOHN DOE, UNKNOWN HEIR OF RONALD G. BISHOP, and JANE DOE, UNKNOWN CLAIMANT, Defendants. The State of Missouri to Defendants Beverly Bishop, Rhonda Stroup, Roger Stroup, John Doe (unknown heir of Ronald G. Bishop), and Jane Doe (unknown heir or devisee of the other named Defendants or unknown person who claims an interest in the belowdescribed property): You are hereby notified that an action has been commenced against you in the Circuit Court of Phelps County, Missouri, the object and general nature of which is a quiet title suit regarding the property owned by Carl Jason Steiner and Ashley Steiner, at 13700 County Road 7020, Rolla, Missouri, 65401, more specifically known as: A fractional part of the North Half of the Southwest Quarter of Section Sixteen (16), Township Thirtyseven (37) North, Range Eight (8) West of the 5th P.M. in Phelps County, Missouri more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the center of said Section Sixteen (16) thence West, 1026.8 feet along the Quarter section line of said Section to a point on the West right-of-way of Bridge School Road,

said point being the true point of beginning of the tract herein described; thence continuing West along said Quarter Section line, 593.6 feet; thence South 52 -15.5’ East, 476.9 feet to a point of the West right-of-way of Bridge School Road; thence North 37 -44.5’ East, 176.9 feet along said right-of-way to the point of beginning of a 2272 foot Radius Curve with 2 -30’ Degree of Curve; thence along said right-of-way on said curve 195.0 feet to the true point of beginning, containing 2.0 acres, more or less. Subject to all easements of record to include a 10 foot by 266.5 foot Road Easement beginning at the Northwest corner and continuing East. The names of all parties to said action are Plaintiffs Carl Jason Steiner and Ashley Steiner and Beverly Bishop, Rhonda Stroup, Roger Stroup, John Doe (unknown heir of Ronald G. Bishop), and Jane Doe (unknow heir or devisee of the other named Defendants or unknown person who claims an interest in the below-described property), and the name and address of the attorney for Plaintiff is David A. Osborne, 1100 North Elm Street, Rolla, MO 65401. 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 25th day of November, 2021, judgment by default will be rendered against you. Witness my hand and seal of the Circuit Court this 16th day of November, 2021. Sonja Childers, Circuit Clerk Amber Ousley, Deputy Clerk (Published in Phelps County Focus Nov. 25; Dec. 2, 9, 16, 2021)

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

News

Deputy county clerk accuses city of violating a state statute ROLLA CITY COUNCIL

By Andrew Sheeley Staff Writer andrew@ phelpscountyfocus.com A deputy county clerk took to the lectern during Monday’s council meeting to accuse the city of violating a state statute. Before the council was an ordinance to again approve new ward boundaries for the Rolla City Council elections. Owing to population changes, Rolla’s new boundaries reapportion parts of Ward 4 and Ward 2 to Ward 3 and a portion of Ward 6 to Ward 5. Ward 1 is unchanged. The map Monday was the same as the one approved by the council six weeks previous, but the original

ordinance’s text didn’t accurately describe all of the map’s displayed boundaries. Public Works director Steve Hargis explained Monday’s ordinance fixes the discrepancy between the map as shown and the text description of it. During council comments on the matter Mayor Louis Magdits IV commented that the error had been brought to the attention by County Clerk Pamela K. Grow. The council next voted unanimously to approve the ordinance. It passed Monday with a first and final reading. Hargis requested the accelerated passage to

have the matter settled before the following morning’s opening of candidate filing for the April municipal election. Questioning the city during the meeting’s later public comment period was Peter Cook. Cook is employed as a Deputy Phelps County Clerk. Cook first asked why the city didn’t allow for citizen comments on the Monday ordinance. Mayor Magdits responded the city has the latitude to allow comments or not, and cited the meeting’s agenda was posted 24 hours in advance of Monday’s vote. City Counselor Lance Thurman later added there were comments allowed on the original redistricting ordinance. Phelps County Focus reported there

PUBLIC NOTICES PHELPS COUNTY R-III SCHOOL DISTRICT STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS, DISBURSEMENTS AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE – CASH BASIS ALL GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2021

CASH RECEIPTS Local County State Federal TOTAL CASH RECEIPTS CASH DISBURSEMENTS Current Instruction Guidance Health services Professional development Media services Board of Education services Executive administration Operation of plant Pupil transportation Food service Community services Debt service Principal Interest and other charges TOTAL CASH DISBURSEMENTS Cash receipts in excess of (less than) cash disbursements OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) Transfers Fund balance, beginning of year

Special Revenue Fund $ 255,374 20,945 1,095,130 75,729 1,447,178

Debt Service Fund $ 38,260 5,363 43,623

209,917 307 21,515 150 60,297 12,770 140,141 185,428 205,586 147,175 30,502

1,314,797 48,977 1,077 4,638 119,567 59,977

1,013,788

1,549,033

25,000 8,113 33,113

318 318

25,000 8,431 2,596,252

(318)

10,510

(101,855)

101,855

67,186 $

Total 899,041 92,871 1,296,663 431,342 2,719,917

1,524,714 49,284 21,515 1,227 64,935 12,770 259,708 185,428 205,586 147,175 90,479

(101,855)

1,108,322

215,328

$ 1,221,795

Capital Projects Fund $ -

77,696

123,665

16,555

1,192,063

16,237

$ 1,315,728

The above Statement of Receipts, Disbursements and Changes in Fund Balances – Cash Basis was prepared by our independent auditor, Catlett & Associates, LLC, CPA’s, and is part of the June 30, 2021 Audit Report. The Phelps County R-III School District’s financial statements were audited in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States of America. The auditor’s opinion of the financial statements was unmodified. The complete audit report is available for inspection at the Superintendent’s office. The independent auditor’s opinion is as follows: “In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the respective cash basis financial position of the governmental activities and each major fund of Phelps County R-III School District, as of June 30, 2021, and the respective changes in cash basis financial position thereof for the year then ended in accordance with the cash basis of accounting described in Note 1.”

(Published in Phelps County Focus Dec. 9, 2021)

NEWBURG R·II SCHOOL DISTRICT STATEMENT OF REVENUES, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCES GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS - CASH BASIS YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2021

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by the lawmaking authorities of such city, but the failure to make such publication shall in no way affect the validity of such ordinance.” Cook contacted Phelps County Focus on Tuesday to say he was speaking as a private citizen and not on behalf of the Phelps County Clerk’s Office. Other News • The council received more instruction Monday on an impending vote whether to grant a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) allowing the construction of a 95-foot cell tower (with a five-foot lightning rod atop it) on property at 1900 Old St. James Road. The cell tower matter has been before the city for several months and originates as a request from Cellective Solutions LLC, an acquisition company that represents Parallel Infrastructure. The new tower would be used by AT&T and replace AT&T’s use of the current SBA Communicationsowned cell tower by Schuman Park, which is disguised as a flagpole. The pivotal issue concerning the proposed tower, and why a CUP was being sought, are some code nonconforming elements of its design. An aspect which has garnered the most attention is that the proposed tower’s fall zone does not meet the city’s current pertinent code, which was passed in 2019. City Counselor Lance Thurman advised the council the decision on granting the CUP should be based on whether the proposal aligns with city’s codes and ordinances and, if not, whether the applicant had presented evidence an exemption should be granted due to the project otherwise being economically or technologically unfeasible. Thurman highlighted several such points of criteria in a “findings of fact, conclusion of law” document his firm prepared. For example, Thurman cited the proposed tower would have a “crow’s nest” apparatus, which city code doesn’t allow. However, Thurman said the council could consent to an exemption for one. He added several potential conditions will be presented for the council’s consideration at its next meeting. The matter now heads for a decision at the council’s next meeting. The city’s options include approving an ordinance granting a CUP and facilitating the tower’s construction, or drafting a resolution denying the request. • The council voted unanimously Monday to rezone 305 S. Oak Street and 304 S. Olive Street from the C1, Neighborhood Commercial District to the C-2, General Retail District. South Central Creamery submitted the rezoning request to facilitate the construction

were no comments during an Oct. 18 public hearing on the matter. Cook next said the city should cite its statutory legal authority to redistrict its wards. He then questioned what the specific population shifts were in each ward and whether the boundary changes are “out of compliance.” Thurman responded Monday’s ordinance does not change the ward boundary map from what was originally shown Nov. 1 and was passed to fix the textual discrepancy. “When you have two items that are in discrepancy you have to clarify which one is accurate and we did that tonight,” Thurman said. “The map was what was intended. It was a scrivener’s error. That was corrected. The ordinance that was passed tonight was what was intended to be passed by this body when we showed them the map.” Cook then stated, “That’s why I asked where was the legality, [the] ability, to be able to redo the wards from what you legally passed already in the first place because the map was not what was passed, only the ordinance was passed. … the map was not in the ordinance when it was passed at that time.” Thurman responded that the map was an exhibit attached to the original ordinance. Mayor Magdits then asked Cook what his purpose was in speaking to the council. Cook answered it was to know where the legality was for the council to be able to pass Monday’s ordinance. Magdits and Thurman answered by saying state statutes give the city the authority to pass ordinances and determine its ward boundaries. Cook then said Section 120 of Chapter 82 of the Missouri Revised Statutes says consideration of Monday’s ordinance should have been advertised with a public notice three weeks prior to making the change. Thurman disagreed. He said, “I believe we have met all [that’s] required for this ordinance change.” Cook answered, “One thing I want to make sure city council understands is that you weren’t changing something that you’re intentionally not following state statute on what you said you could do for changing that.” Magdits concluded the discussion by then stating, “that’s an opinion.” He then moved on to the next agenda item. The text of RSMO 82.120 states: “Redistricting ordinance to be published. — Before such ordinance shall be passed, the same shall be published for at least three weeks in at least one daily newspaper published in such city, to be designated

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(Published in Phelps County Focus Dec. 9, 2021)

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phelpscountyfocus.com

of a new drive-thru ice cream parlor on the parcels. In response to a question from Mayor Louis Magdits IV, City Planner Tom Coots said the entry and egress for the facility was unlikely to be on Highway 72. • The council voted unanimously Monday to rezone 306 N. Walnut Street from the R-1, Single-family District to the R-3, Multi-Family District. Property owner Andrew McCluskey told the council at its previous meeting he hoped to redevelop the home into an eight-unit apartment building. An offstreet parking lot for tenants is also planned. • The council voted unanimously Monday to approve a Missouri Joint Municipal Electric Utility Commission (MJMEUC) Interconnection Agreement concerning the Rolla Solar Farm. The 3.2 megawatts facility was developed in 2015 by MC Power for the MoPEP power pool of MJMEUC with a development plan in place that anticipated MJMEUC acquiring the solar farm at the conclusion of a five-year solar tax credit period. RMU General Manager Rodney Bourne told the council at its previous meeting not allowing the transfer would result in higher power rates. Bourne added the transfer would also mean the property will no longer be subject to property taxes as MJMEUC is a nonprofit entity. • The council Monday heard the first reading of an ordinance raising burial fees in Rolla City Cemetery. Parks & Recreation Director Floyd Jernigan told the council the change is being sought to account for inflation and other rising costs. Fees have increased twice since 2011. The increase is projected to generate an additional $2,000 to 4,000 per year depending on the number of burials. If approved, the new fee schedule would be $600 for a weekday burial for a person older than six years, $990 for a weekend burial and $1,400 for a holiday burial. If the burial is for a person six or under in age the rates are $240 for a weekday burial, $480 for a weekend and $720 for a holiday. If the remains are cremated or to be placed in a crypt the rates are $230 for a weekday, $440 for a weekend and $660 for a holiday. • The council heard the first reading of an ordinance allowing the city to enter into an agreement with B&B Building Systems to construct a salt storage building on McCutchen Road for $52,514.56. • The council heard the first reading of an ordinance vacating sanitary sewer easements on lots 168, 177 and 178 of the College Hills Subdivision. City Engineer Darin Pryor told the council the sanitary sewer lines are no longer located in these easements. • The council voted Monday to approve a series of appointments by Rolla Mayor Louis Magdits IV. Matthew Crowell was appointed to the Board of Adjustment for a term expiring December 2026. Diana Ahmad was reappointed to the Library Board for a term expiring May 2023. Rachel White was reappointed to the Library Board for a term expiring May 2024. Albert Crump was reappointed to the Board of Public Works for a term expiring August 2025. All appointments were made with unanimous approval from the council with the exception of Crowell, who was voted down by Ward 2’s Megan Johnson. Crowell and Johnson were opposing candidates in the Ward 2 election earlier this year.

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Obituaries

Frances Lewis Funeral service for Frances Lucille “Lucy” (Williams) Lewis was December 1, 2021 at Tabernacle of Praise, Rolla. Arrangements were under the direction of Teague and Son Funeral Home, Newburg. Ms. Lewis was born October 29, 1945 in Cunningham, Kansas, to Lawrence and Mable Williams and raised by William and Vergie King. Ms. Lewis died November 28, 2021 at the age of 76 years. Survivors include her son, Randy Thompson, Doolittle; daughters, Julie and Jimmy Small, Rolla; and Lisa and Jim Davis, Edgar Springs; grandsons, Toby and Chuck Whitson,

Anthony and Daniel Skaggs, Ronnie Phillips, Johnathan Matthews, Tommy Thompson; great-granddaughters, Allysa, Miranda and Kysah Phillips, and Abby Thompson; step grandchildren, Krystal David, Angel, Eric and Kaitlyn; sisters, Claudie Kuntz, Rolla; and Marge and Jake Eads, Stillwell, Oklahoma; brother, Tim and Kim King, Rolla; special stepdaughter, Sherry and Kenny Lewis, Rolla; and granddaughter, Tammi and Ken Boeker, Rolla. Preceding her in death were her parents; daughter, Brenda Thompson; sisters, Alice Long and Joe Olson; and brother, Gary “Doc” Williams.

Death notices are updated daily on

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phelps county focus.com Death notices and basic obituaries are supplied by funeral homes and published at no charge. Photo, $10.

The family of Sharon Seddon wishes to extend their thanks for the multitude of prayers and support during our time of loss of a special lady. A special thanks to Phelps Home Health and Hospice. - The Seddon Family

Esther “Grannie” Ruth Hance Esther “Grannie” Ruth Hance, of Rolla, passed away Sunday, November 28, 2021 at the age of 98. She was born on July 24, 1923 in Lecoma to the late Glenn George Gilgour and Helen Mae (Reed) Gilgour. She married Ralph Tony Hance, who preceded her in death in 1974. In addition to her parents and husband, she was also preceded in death by three grandchildren, Lisa Marie Hance, Joshua Randal Hance and Carrie Yates; and four sisters, Helen Stewart, Marjorie Luttrell, Genevieve Henderson and Estella Barnes. Esther enjoyed embroidering, gardening, squirrel hunting, horse riding and word searches. She was employed at Rawlings Sporting Goods for 19 1/2 years. Esther will be greatly missed by her surviving family which includes: one son, Randy Hance and wife, Dottie of Rolla; three daughters, Helen Cliburn and Terry Lippold of Ozark, Norma Phelps and husband, Ron of Rolla, and Karen King of Doolittle; eight grandchildren, Eric Cliburn and wife, Dana, Marc Cliburn, Jeanine York and husband, Rob, Kelly Grizzle and husband, David,

Lance Affolter, Tony Yates, John Yates and wife, Angie, and Dalton Hance; twelve greatgrandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. A funeral service for Esther R. Hance was conducted on Friday, December 3, 2021 at the Null and Son Funeral Home in Rolla. Interment followed in the Mt. Olive Cemetery. A visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the service beginning at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Online condolences may be offered to www.nullandsonfuneralhome.com. All arrangements are under the direction of the Null and Son Funeral Home of Rolla.

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Pete Wilson Funeral service for Pete Wilson was December 4, 2021 at Greentree Christian Church, Rolla. Arrangements were under the direction of Null and Son Funeral Home, Rolla. Interment was in the Rolla City Cemetery, Rolla. Mr. Wilson was born August 2, 1944 in Waynesville, to Lon and Hazel Wilson. He married Linda Flynn June 19, 1964. To this union one son was born. Mr. Wilson died November 29, 2021 at the age of 77 years. Survivors include his wife, Linda Wilson, Rolla; granddaughter, Kelsey and husband, Brian Gambriel, Springfield; Robert and Kim Rogers, Rogersville; brother, Clyde Wilson and wife, Connie, Blue Springs;

sister-in-law, Barbara Wilson, Rolla; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Preceding him in death were his parents; son, Rick Wilson; brother, George Wilson; and nephew, Rodney Wilson.

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Leisa Carroll Bowling Stevens On November 27, 2021 Leisa Carroll Bowling Stevens, 63, reluctantly left the dance floor. Her last partner, ALS, had no rhythm, no rhyme, and no sense of style. She would not allow it to further diminish her. She left surrounded by those who comprised the core of her existence, her husband Tony, her son Will, her mother Sandi, and her father Bob. Her beloved brother Rob died earlier this year. Leisa was born on November 2, 1958 in Rolla, Missouri. In addition to her parents, she was the apple of her Gram's and Paw Paw's eyes. She spent her youth driving all the young men crazy, working at Larry's flower shop, and curating her lifelong love of disco dancing and music. She met a handsome, smart and athletic rugby player at the University of Missouri, Rolla. After they both received their degrees there, she and Tony married and left for Kansas City, where they made their home for the rest of Leisa's life. For those of us devastated by the loss of our North Star, our comic relief, our partner in crime and our social compass, it is a comfort to know that Leisa lived her life to the fullest. She could not and would not shield herself from the injustice and hardships felt by others and performed so many large and small acts of kindness. She was a champion of the underdog. She couldn't stand for anyone to be picked on, left out, or treated as if they didn't matter. She researched and read and

was a formidable opponent of those in power whom she felt were not living up to her ideals of public service. At the Stinson law firm, where she worked for over 30 years, she often volunteered to work on pro bono matters, involving those she felt often had no voice. She was also the center of the party. She organized disco parties, held kitchen dance offs, thrived on acting just slightly inappropriately, and accumulated an incredibly wide and diverse universe of friends. She loved hard and she loved completely, and her world was not complete until her son, Will, was born. On social media, she referred to him as her Smart Athletic Son, and she was so proud of him. She left all of our lives so much richer for her presence. In her memory please contribute to St. Luke’s Hospice House or charity in which you feel strongly, be part of an educated electorate, and put on some Earth, Wind and Fire and dance your grief away. She would have liked that. No services are planned.

Dale Floyd Bassham Dale Floyd Bassham, 88, of Salem, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 27, 2021 in Rolla. He was born on May 26, 1933 in Moko, Arkansas to the late Grover Bassham and Alma (Gibson) Bassham. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by four brothers, Carl, Bob, Jack and Gene; two sisters, Lois Osborn and Betty Younger; and life partners, Sharon Arcand and Donna Friday. Dale is survived by nephews, nieces, and extended family. A graveside service for Dale F. Bassham was conducted Thursday, December 2, 2021 at the Pendleton United Baptist

Church Cemetery, in Doe Run. Online condolences may be offered at www.nulland sonfuneralhome.com. All arrangements are under the direction of the Null and Son Funeral Home of Rolla.

Michele Rena Camenisch Michele Rena Camenisch, of Rolla, passed away on Thursday, December 2, 2021 at the age of 51. She was born on July 31, 1970 in Rolla, to the late Charles Tankersley and Mary (Bailey) Tankersley. On July 31, 1998, she married James Camenisch in Flat. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her grandparents, Wilbert and Sadie Tankersley and Willard and Ida Pearl Bailey. Michele was employed at Walmart in Rolla for 7 1/2 years and Rolla’s Party Market for four years prior to landing her residing job as the office manager at Gingerbread House for the last 14 years. She enjoyed her job and the relationships she built with the residents at Gingerbread House. She made many friendships and unforgettable memories with her coworkers throughout the years. Michele cared for everyone and was always sure to put everybody else’s needs and wants before her own. As her kids grew up, their friends often looked up to her and thought of her as a second mom. She always shared stories of when she was little, cooking in the kitchen with her Grandma Sadie. She carried on that tradition spending lots of time cooking with her kids and grandkids. She always made sure the family sat down for a meal together every Sunday no matter what. She loved sitting on the porch and watching her kids and grandkids play. She especially loved watching her son, Bud play high school football and was very proud of each of her kids and their accomplishments.

Michele will be greatly missed by her surviving family which includes: her husband, James Camenisch of Edgar Springs; two sons, Joshua Camenisch and wife, Lindsey and James Camenisch II, all of Edgar Springs; a daughter, Nicole Camenisch and boyfriend, Zach Taylor of Edgar Springs; two grandchildren, Charleigh Mae Camenisch and Gracie Marie Camenisch; one sister, Kathy Daniels and husband, Terry of Rolla; a niece, Alexis Taylor and husband, Dallas of Rolla; a nephew, Kyle Daniels and wife, Lauren of Rolla; great nieces, Bailey Taylor and Layla Daniels of Rolla; and great nephew, Layton Daniels of Rolla. A funeral service for Michele R. Camenisch was conducted at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at the Null and Son Funeral Home in Rolla. Interment followed in the Edgar Springs Cemetery. A visitation for family and friends was held Tuesday, December 7 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to an education fund for James “Bud” Camenisch. Online condolences may be offered at www.nullandsonfuneralhome.com. All arrangements are under the direction of the Null and Son Funeral Home of Rolla.

Obituaries Continue Page 8A

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Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

News

AG tells schools, health departments to end COVID orders By Tessa Weinberg & Rebecca Rivas Missouri Independent

Attorney General Eric Schmitt instructed school districts and local public health departments to immediately stop enforcing health orders a judge ruled unconstitutional last month, and warned Tuesday they may face legal action if they fail to do so. In separate letters sent Tuesday to school districts and health departments across the state, Schmitt pointed to Cole County Circuit Court Judge Daniel Green’s ruling that struck down state health regulations and declared health orders issued by local health authorities under them to be “null and void.” Local governments and health departments have said they are still grappling with understanding the Nov. 22 ruling’s effect. At least one health department has said its mask mandate is still in place because it is based on local authority. In his letters, Schmitt said Green’s order applies to mask mandates, quarantine orders or other mitigation measures that were based on the invalidated regulations. “We have advised local public health authorities today to stop enforcing and publicizing any such orders immediately,” Schmitt wrote in his letter to schools, later adding that state law doesn’t

give school officials the authority to issue such restrictions. Failure to abide by the court’s ruling, “may result in enforcement action against you to remove orders the court has determined are unconstitutional and illegal,” Schmitt warned in both letters. Mallory McGowin, a spokeswoman for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, said the department is reviewing Tuesday’s letter. A spokeswoman for the Department of Health and Senior Services did not immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday. The letters follow Schmitt’s decision last week not to appeal Green’s ruling, despite a formal request from DHSS Director Donald Kauerauf to do so. The ruling has led to confusion for local health departments as to what authority they still retain to issue public health measures, like mask mandates, to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases and keep kids from going to school if sick. “The friendly-fire case between the attorney general and the plaintiff that has tangled this up with an unusual result and blocked pathways is extraordinary,” St. Louis County Executive Sam Page told reporters during a press briefing Monday. “It is unprecedented, and it has created quite a problem

for people in Missouri.” At least one health department believes it still has the authority to do so. Kim Vanden Berg, a spokeswoman for the St. Louis Department of Health, said last week that the city continues to have a mask mandate in effect, pointing to a law passed this year that requires health orders be renewed every 30 days and authority granted to the Board of Aldermen under the city’s charter. “We will continue to prioritize the health and safety of our citizens to protect them from exposure to COVID-19,” Vanden Berg said, pointing to measures like masking when indoors, vaccines and social distancing. George Sells, a spokesman for Saint Louis Public Schools, said the district is reviewing the letter and will continue to follow the lead of the city’s health department. In Kansas City, a mask mandate only remains for schools. Kelly Wachel, a spokeswoman for Kansas City Public Schools said the district us under a city ordinance to continue its mask mandate through Dec. 31. “Our Board of Directors and administration make these decisions with local health departments, and we review guidance frequently,” Wachel said. “KCPS will continue to follow the sound medical advice of our local health department and City

ordinance requirements with all proven prevention and mitigation strategies.” Michelle Pekarsky, a spokeswoman for the Kansas City Health Department, directed questions to the city and mayor’s office. A spokeswoman for Mayor Quinton Lucas didn’t immediately provide comment Tuesday afternoon. “Since the orders came first from the mayor and now the council (based on our COVID data), they should address this,” Pekarsky said. Columbia Public Schools,

Jerald L. Duncan, of Rolla, passed away Thursday, November 25, 2021 at the age of 82. He was born on January 11, 1939 in Rolla to the late Oscar Duncan and Alice (Perrot) Duncan. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a sister, Janice Duncan. Belonging to a family of early Phelps County settlers, Jerald grew up working hard on his grandfather and dad‘s cattle farms, then later at his dad and mom’s moving company. After graduating in 1957, he worked fulltime at the moving company until 1959 when his dad helped him and his former wife Paula get their own moving company started, A-1 Moving and Storage. In 1978, along with his sons, he started his own cattle farming operation. Starting in 1980 and after their graduations from school, his sons graduated school and joined him in growing the moving company, cattle and rental house operations which are to this day in full operation. Although Jerald had enough to keep him busy, he did find time and always enjoyed traveling the United States, Canada and Hawaii, of which he loved to later pull out a map and recount his trips. Among the things he liked to do, few ranked higher than socializing, meeting with old, while creating new friends, was truly his passion. During one of these breakfast socials is where he met Louise Chu, after which on April 26, 2008 became his loving, supporting and caring wife who was by his side the day he went home. Those who

Photos courtesy of DHSS

Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services

remember Jerald will reminisce of his smile and ability to make them laugh. Jerald will be greatly missed by his surviving family which includes: his wife, Louise Duncan of Rolla; five sons, Gary Duncan of Rolla; Ron Duncan and wife, Randi of Columbia, South Carolina; Mike Duncan and wife, Patricia; and Troy Duncan and Kathy, all of Rolla; and Eric Chu and fiancé, Kimberly Westgate of Elizabethton, Tennessee; a daughter, Ava Chu of Elizabethton; two brothers, Kenneth Duncan and wife, Sharon and Keith Duncan and wife, Nancy, all of Rolla; 15 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. A memorial service for Jerald L. Duncan was conducted Monday, December 6, 2021 at the Null and Son Funeral Home in Rolla. A visitation for family and friends was held prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Three Rivers Hospice. Online condolences may be offered to www.null andsonfuneralhome.com. All arrangements are under the direction of the Null and Son Funeral Home of Rolla.

Patricia Ann "Patty" (nee McCauley) Cunningham Cunningham, Patricia Ann "Patty" (nee McCauley), baptized into the hope of Christ's resurrection, Tuesday, November 30, 2021. Loving wife of Dave Cunningham; beloved mother of Mike (Danielle), Pat (Lisa), Dan (Jennifer) and Tim (Sarah) Cunningham; grandmother of Ali (Shawn) Noordsy, Taylor (Michael) Tungesvik, Riley, Delaney, Ryan, Brendan, Nathan, Andrew, Nick, Katie, Charley, Josie and Jesse Cunningham; greatgrandmother of Gavin, Amelia, Brooks and Cooper; sister of Bob (Betty) McCauley, Maureen (the late Earl) Haynes, Ken (Georgine) McCauley and Tim (Linda) McCauley. Our dear aunt, great aunt, cousin and friend to many. Patty was a devout Catholic, born and raised in Helena, Montana. While earning her nursing degree from Carroll College, she met the love of her life Dave and they soon began their 57-year marriage. Their four sons were born in four different states in six years and Patty devoted her life to loving and caring for her family. She was the glue that put the boys back together when they were little and kept them connected as they grew older. She was extremely proud of the men they became and for their service to others in their law en-

structed school districts and health departments to comply with Green’s order immediately, Kauerauf told health departments in a Nov. 30 letter that the judgment would not become final until Dec. 22. It’s the same date the state education department referenced in a Dec. 2 message to school leaders, noting that “the quarantine of individuals exposed to COVID-19 may continue to be among those mitigation strategies” until that time. The Independent’s Allison Kite contributed to this story.

DHSS warns citizens of text message scam

Obituaries Jerald L. Duncan

whose mask mandate was approved by its Board of Education and was also challenged by Schmitt in a previous lawsuit, said Tuesday afternoon that it had not yet received a letter from the attorney general’s office. In September, a Boone County judge denied Schmitt’s request that the lawsuit against Columbia Public Schools be expanded to districts statewide, denied a motion for a preliminary injunction and also turned down the district’s motion to dismiss the case. While Schmitt has in-

forcement careers. She was also a highly respected nurse during her 38-year career, always giving the best care to her patients. She had a fantastic sense of humor, an amazing memory and loved reading and puzzles of any kind. She adored her 13 grandchildren and her four great-grandchildren and loved staying informed on their lives and activities. She was humble, kind, selfless, peaceful and was a beautiful example of how to love well and will be forever missed. Services were under the direction of SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, Ballwin. Service was Dec. 4, 2021. Interment was in Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Backstoppers or The MASTERS, MSHP. Friends may sign the family’s online guestbook at Schrader.com.

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phelpscountyfocus.com Death notices and basic obituaries are supplied by funeral homes and published at no charge. Photo, $10.

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The Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services (DHSS) is warning citizens of a new text message scam targeting their personal information. According to website registration information, the scam was established on Dec. 2 and registered using a provider from the European Union. The text message requests that citizens visit a website to enter their social security number (SSN), name, and date of birth as well as upload photos of their driver’s license to “validate their one-time COVID-19 vaccine verification.” In an attempt to legitimize the site, logos of DHSS and the Missouri Department of Revenue’s myDMV portal appear along the top. DHSS worked with the Office of Administration’s Information Technology Services Division (OAITSD) to take all actions at the state’s disposal to report the site to the proper authorities, even though the site is hosted and maintained externally. As a reminder, DHSS will never ask for a citizen’s SSN over email or text message and only provides vac-

cination verification and records upon request. Although citizens have reported text messages originating from 1-704-5259772, DHSS encourages citizens to protect their personal information online no matter the source. If a citizen already submitted their information through this website, DHSS recommends starting with the following steps to protect themselves: • Contact your financial institutions to notify them of the privacy breach • Contact the Social Security Administration to report an exposed SSN • Contact credit reporting services to alert them your information was disclosed.

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Sports

GIRLS BASKETBALL

BOYS BASKETBALL

Bulldogs 1-2 in Republic tournament

Lady Dogs top Lady Jays

By Dave Roberts Sports Editor dave@phelpscountyfocus.com

By Dave Roberts Sports Editor dave@phelpscountyfocus.com Better. Although not yet at full strength due to some pesky injury issues, Rolla got healthier and recorded its first victory of the season Nov. 30, defeating Jefferson City 47-35 at the RHS gym. It was a battle of teams ranked in the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association’s preseason state poll, which was released earlier in the week. The Jefferson City Lady Jays were ranked No. 10 in the Class 6 state poll and Rolla No. 5 in Class 5. Rolla improved to 1-2, while it was the seasonopener for Jefferson City. As is usually the case when the Lady Bulldogs have success, defense set the tone. The Lady Jays didn’t score double figures in a quarter until the fourth period. “I thought we did a good job defensively,” said RHS head coach Charley Parker. “As far as field goal attempts, we held them; we just gave up some second opportunities. As far as us changing defenses and looks, I thought we did a great job.” The Lady Bulldogs didn’t

Photo by Lori Lunceford Rolla senior guard Taniya Corley goes in for a layup in action against Jefferson City Nov. 30 at the RHS gym. It was the first game back for Corley, who has been rehabbing offseason knee surgery.

light up the scoreboard either, leaving it a close game throughout most of the way. Senior guard Madison Mace, moving much better after rolling an ankle in the season-opener, netted five points in the first period as RHS took a 12-9 edge after the first period. Only a total of 13 points were scored in the second quarter. Junior guard Faith Coates hit a three-pointer and a pair of free throws to help Rolla keep a 19-15 advantage going into halftime. Hannah Linthacum, a 64 junior post who has verbally committed to Mizzou, scored on a putback to open the second half and cut the RHS lead to two. After the two teams swapped baskets, Rolla went on a 11-3 run to end

the third quarter. And a layup by junior forward Jessica Pritchett off an inbounds play following a Lady Jay turnover with 41 SECONDS remaining gave Rolla a double-figure lead heading into the fourth period, 32-22. Rolla started the fourth period with back-to-back field goals, and a 15-foot pull-up jumper by sophomore guard Willow Gideon with 5:48 remaining gave Rolla its largest advantage of the game, 36-22. Jefferson City would get no closer than nine points the rest of the way. Coates and sophomore guard Resa Martin each scored 11 points to pace the Lady Bulldogs. Linthacum led Jefferson City with 15 points. Making her season debut for the Lady Bulldogs was senior guard Taniya Corley.

Corley, coming back from knee surgery, played a few minutes in the first half as Parker slowly works her back into the mix. “It was a good win,” Parker said. “They (Jefferson City) are kind of in a rebuilding year, but they’ve got some nice pieces, with good guard play and Linthacum inside.” Jefferson City won the JV game 37-33 and in a C game Rolla won 41-23. Rolla is scheduled to compete in the Springfield Kickapoo Tournament Wednesday through Saturday. In the opening round Rolla takes on Springfield Central at 7 p.m. Thursday, followed by a rematch with Jefferson City at 8:30 p.m. Friday, and finish up against the state’s No. 1ranked Class 6 team, Incarnate Word, at 1 p.m. Saturday.

Athlete

of the WEEK

RESA MARTIN

Sophomore Girls’ Basketball Team Martin scored 11 points to help Rolla defeat state-ranked Jefferson City last week. 1360 Forum Dr., Rolla

573-364-1771

Photo by Lori Lunceford Junior forward Jessica Pritchett looks to pass against Jeff City.

Rolla returned to the court last week by finishing 1-2 in the Republic Tournament. In the tourney finals Saturday: Liberty, the No. 1ranked team in the Missouri Class 6 state poll, defeated Ozark 70-62 in the championship game; Park Hill South topped Springdale, Ark. 46-34 in the third-place game; Lincoln Prep Academy downed Rolla 41-37 in the fifth-place game, and Republic whipped Russellville 79-46 in the seventh-place game. The Bulldogs opened play in the tourney by giving defending Missouri Class 6 State Tournament finalist Liberty a scare before falling 49-43 Thursday. In the consolation bracket Friday, Rolla clipped host Republic 41-39 before falling to Lincoln Prep. “It was great competition,” said RHS head coach Mark Miller. “We played Liberty to six the first day, having the lead most of the game and they went on to win the tournament. We beat a solid Republic team on their home floor, and they just don’t get beat at their house very often. Lincoln Prep was a challenging matchup for us because they are ultra-athletic. We defended extremely well and held them to just 41 points, but we had trouble scoring. It didn’t help they went to the free throw line 28 times, making 25 compared to us making six of 11. “A four-point loss wasn’t what we wanted, but it wasn’t for lack of teamwork and effort. This is the strongest field I’ve ever seen in this tournament and we benefited greatly from the experience we got.” This week Rolla, now 13, is scheduled to play at St. James Tuesday (6 p.m.), host Pacific Friday (5:30 p.m.) and play at Hermann Saturday (5 p.m.). Lincoln Prep 41, RHS 37: Rolla’s defense limited Lincoln to just 12 points over three quarters. However, the Blue Tigers erupted for 24 points in the final period to come from behind for the win. Blue Tiger Israel Randle

poured in 12 points in the fourth quarter, including a 10-for-10 performance from the free throw line. In all Lincoln hit 18-of-19 free throws in the final period. It was a defensive battle throughout, as Lincoln was held to one field goal in the first period and RHS took a 9-3 lead into the second period. And the Blue Tigers managed just two free throws for their only points in the second period. But Rolla struggled for points as well and could take only a 16-5 advantage into halftime. The Bulldogs scored but two points in the third quarter and went into the fourth quarter up 18-12. Senior guard Ty Locklear led Rolla with 10 points. Randle, a 5-11 junior guard, led Lincoln with 23 points, including a 16-for16 free throw performance. RHS 41, Republic 39: It went the other way for Rolla against the Republic Tigers, as it was the Bulldogs who rallied for the victory in the fourth quarter. In a back-and-forth contest, the game was tied at eight after one quarter and Republic took a 21-20 advantage into halftime. Rolla was limited to just six points over the third quarter and trailed 31-26 entering the fourth period. Rolla used the combo of senior guard/forward Adam Hounsom and junior forward Luke Foster to rally. Hounsom netted nine points and Foster added six in the final period, as RHS held the Tigers to just eight points in the fourth. Foster finished with a game-high 18 points to pace Rolla while Hounsom finished with 12. Liberty 49, RHS 43: The Bulldogs held the lead most of the game, but a couple of late turnovers helped turn the tide. The two teams swapped baskets most of the third period, allowing the Bulldogs to hold on to their lead 34-31 going into the final period. But the Blue Jays would take control by outscoring Rolla 18-9 in the fourth quarter. Locklear led Rolla with 11 points while Hounsom added 10.

Brackets announced for Rolla holiday basketball tournaments The brackets have been released for the Rolla Holiday Basketball Tournaments, to be held Dec. 2830 at the RHS gym and S&T’s Gibson Arena. US Bank is the corporate sponsor for the boys’ tournament, while Rolla Oral Surgery sponsors the girls’ tourney. It is the 35th annual event for the boys’ tournament. Boys The US Bank Holiday Boys’ Tournament will include Rolla, Waynesville, St. Pius X, Hazelwood West, Carthage, Lincoln Prep, Warrensburg and Hannibal. In first-round games Tuesday, Dec. 28: At the RHS gym Waynesville plays Hazelwood West at

Dave Roberts Sidelines 4 p.m. while Rolla takes on St. Pius X at 7 p.m. At Gibson Arena Carthage plays Lincoln Prep at 2:30 p.m. while Warrensburg meets Hannibal at 5:30 p.m. In semifinal games Dec. 29 at the RHS gym the Carthage/Lincoln Prep winner plays the Warrensburg/Hannibal win-

ner at 4 p.m. while the Rolla/St. Pius X winner meets the Waynesville/Hazelwood West winner at 7 p.m. In consolation games Dec. 29 at Gibson Arena, the Carthage/Lincoln Prep loser plays the Warrensburg/Hannibal loser at 4 p.m. while the Rolla/St. Pius X loser plays the Waynesville/Hazelwood West loser at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 30 at the RHS gym, the seventh-place game is slated for 9 a.m., the fifth-place game at noon, the thirdplace game at 3 p.m. and the championship game at 6 p.m. Girls The Rolla Oral Surgery Girls’ Holiday Tournament field includes Rolla,

Licking, Fatima, Fox, North County, St. Joseph Central, Hazelwood West and Truman. In first-round games Dec. 28: At the RHS gym North County – coached by RHS graduate Joe Arnold – plays St. Joseph Central at 2:30 p.m. while host Rolla takes on Fox at 5:30 p.m. At Gibson Arena, Fatima meets Hazelwood West at 4 p.m. while Licking plays Truman at 7 p.m. In the semifinals Dec. 29 at the RHS gym, the Fatima/Hazelwood West winner plays the Licking/Truman winner at 2:30 p.m. while the Rolla/Fox winner meets the North County/St. Joseph Central winner at 5:30 p.m. In consolation games Dec. 29 at Gibson Arena

it’s the Fatima/Hazelwood West loser playing the Licking/Truman loser at 2:30 p.m. while the Rolla/Fox loser plays the North County/S. Joseph Central loser at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 30 at the RHS gym the seventh-place game is set for 9 a.m., the fifthplace game for 10:30 a.m., the third-place game for 1:30 p.m. and the championship game for 4:30 p.m. Check phelscountyfocus.com over the next couple weeks for profile stories on the Holiday Tournament participants.

Final football poll Several teams from area conferences were ranked in the final Missouri Media state football

rankings. The Lebanon Yellowjackets (10-2) of the Ozark Conference are No. 6 in the final Class 5 state poll, while in Class 4 West Plains (10-2) of the OC is No. 5 and Union (10-1) of the Four Rivers Conference No. 9; in Class 2 Ava (11-1) of the South-Central Association is No. 5, and in Class 1 Thayer (10-4) of the SCA is No. 4. The Rolla Bulldogs handed Lebanon its only regular-season loss this fall. The state champions in Missouri for 2021 are CBC in Class 6, Webb City in Class 5, Smithville in Class 4, St. Mary’s in Class 3, Lutheran St. Charles in Class 2 and East Buchanan in Class 1.

To report sports information: E-mail dave@phelpscountyfocus.com, fax 426-3701, mail to P.O. Box 1128, Rolla, MO 65402, or call Dave Roberts at 426-3700. For sports news, also see phelpscountyfocus.com.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Sports

Lady Dogs win Marshfield Duals By Dave Roberts Sports Editor dave@phelpscountyfocus.com One point can make a big difference on a wrestling mat. A great example –Rolla’s girls ended up capturing the Marshfield Duals by that single point. Rolla won the Marshfield event by going 4-0 in dual meets. And it came down to a clash with Ozark Conference rival West Plains, which the Lady Bulldogs pulled out 43-42 to take the tourney crown.

WRESTLING The event was held Friday and Saturday. In their other dual meets the Lady Bulldogs whipped Branson 66-18, blasted Mountain Home, Ark. 66-18 and knocked off another OC rival, Waynesville, 48-36. Gracie Clayton and Taylor Heimbaugh were two of the highlights for RHS. Clayton won all four of her matches by pin. Heimbaugh won three of four of her matches, all three by fall.

The Lady Bulldogs also competed in a triangular meet at Owensville Thursday and split, defeating Owensville 66-12 while falling to Washington 5424. Boys During the busy seasonopening week the RHS boys’ squad went 3-2 in the Fox Dual Tournament. In the two-day weekend event Rolla beat Ft. Zumwalt West 57-9, lost to Francis Howell Central 43-36, lost to Edwardsville, Ill. 57-21, beat Francis Howell Central in

a rematch 42-37 and knocked off Mascoutah, Ill. 63-18. Thursday Rolla split two meets in the Owensville Tri clubbing host Owensville 66-17 and losing to Washington 48-33. This week Rolla is to host Camdenton at 5:30 p.m. and compete in the Lebanon JV Tri. Saturday, Rolla is slated to host the Rolla Dan Haskell JV Tournament and the Dennis Noel Girls’ Tourney. See full results and more coverage at phelpscountyfocus.com.

2, Totals 13-5-37. Lincoln Prep (2-1): Hurd 2-05, Pearson 1-3-5, Randle 3-1623, Abdul Kadir 1-1-3, Tate 03-3, Barnes 0-2-2, Totals 7-2541. The score by periods: Rolla 9 7 2 19-37 Lincoln Prep 3 2 12 24-41 Dec. 3 Consolation RHS 41, Republic 39 Rolla: Klossner 2-0-6, Hounsom 4-4-12, Buhr 1-0-2, Locklear 1-0-3, Foster 8-0-18, Totals 164-41. Republic: Ellison 1-0-2, Hagewood 1-0-2, Douglas 3-0-9, Askew 3-0-7, McMillin 5-0-10, Beckner 3-0-7, Edwards 0-22, Totals 16-2-39. The score by periods: Republic 8 13 10 8-39 Rolla 8 12 6 15-41 Dec. 2 First Round Liberty 49, RHS 43 Rolla: Klossner 3-0-7, Hounsom 4-2-10, Locklear 4-1-11, Foster 4-0-9, Lindsey 3-0-6, Totals 183-43. Liberty: Stirtz 8-2-19, Stubbs 0-4-4, Stepp 0-2-2, Milbrandt 4-4-13, Bennett 3-1-7, Gormont 2-0-4, Totals 17-13-49. Rolla 15 4 15 9-43 Liberty 14 3 14 18-49 ROLLA HIGH GIRLS Nov. 30 at Rolla Varsity RHS 47, Jefferson City 35 Rolla (1-2): Martin 2-5-11, Mace 2-3-7, Coates 3-3-11, Gideon 1-4-6, Pritchett 3-0-7, Campbell 1-3-5, Totals 12-1847. Jefferson City (0-1): Morgan 1-2-5, Sportsman 4-0-8, Graham 3-1-7, Linthacum 4-7-15, Totals 12-10-35. The score by periods: Jeff. City 9 6 7 13-35 Rolla 12 7 13 15-47 JV Jeff. City 37, RHS 33 Rolla: Bales 2-0-4, H. Bleckman 1-0-2, B. Bleckman 3-0-6, Ball 2-0-4, Swafford 4-2-11, Paine 1-0-2, McKnight 2-0-4, Totals 15-2-33. Jefferson City: Wilde 2-0-5, Mays 2-0-4, Okpodaghe 5-111, Kinsey 3-0-6, Samuals 0-11, Schmidt 3-2-10, Totals 154-37. C Game RHS 41, Jeff. City 23 Rolla: Moats 4-0-9, Colench 40-8, Swift 2-0-4, Swafford 50-10, Lucas 0-1-1, Loudis 1-24, Harris 1-1-3, Bedford 1-0-2, Totals 18-4-41. Jefferson City: Alleah 2-0-4, Sandifer 3-0-6, Mays 3-1-7, Samuals 1-0-3, Ford 1-1-3, Totals 10-2-23. ST. JAMES HIGH GIRLS Dec. 6 at Cuba STJ 65, Cuba 22 St. James (5-1): Recker 1-0-2, Herron 5-1-13, Kemnitzer 30-8, Crocker 0-3-3, Hartley 40-8, Costoplos 3-4-10, Hancock 0-1-1, Alcorn 6-0-13, Bullock 3-1-7. Cuba (1-4): Fieser 1-1-4, Shelton 0-3-3, Shockley 0-2-2, McDonald 3-0-6, Payne 1-0-2. The score by periods: St. James 19 14 19 13-65 Cuba 5 11 6 0-22 Fatima Comet Classic Dec. 4 3rd-Place Game STJ 59, Steelville 37 St. James (4-1): Recker 2-0-5, Herron 4-0-9, Kemnitzer 2-05, Crocker 2-0-7, Hartley 3-18, Costoplos 3-3-9, Spurgeon 0-1-1, Hancock 4-0-8, Bullock 3-1-7, Totals 23-9-59. Steelville: Pryor 4-2-10, Woodall 1-0-2, Pennick 4-313, Davis 3-0-6, Martin 1-4-6, Totals 13-9-37. The score by periods: Steelville 7 6 13 11-37 St. James 20 15 6 18-59 Dec. 1 Semifinals

Helias 53, STJ 51 St. James: Recker 3-0-7, Herron 6-1-18, Crocker 2-2-6, Costoplos 1-2-4, Hancock 1-0-2, Bullock 4-6-14, Totals 17-11-51. Helias (3-0): Edwards 0-4-4, Manns 5-4-16, Bax 4-0-9, Reutter 3-2-9, Koelling 6-2-15, Totals 18-12-53. The score by periods: St. James 11 13 12 15-51 Helias 4 11 27 11-53 ST. JAMES HIGH BOYS Sullivan FCNB Tourney Dec. 3 Consolation Final STJ 67, Gateway Legacy 59 St. James (2-1): S. Redburn 01-1, Boone 3-5-12, H. Redburn 1-0-2, Gruver 6-5-20, Sparks 2-2-7, Perkins 0-2-2, B. Redburn 9-0-23, Totals 21-15-67. Gateway (4-5): Diaz 2-0-4, Salas 2-0-4, Hincapie 8-1-20, Mejia 1-0-2, Oliveira 1-0-2, Taric 41-11, Mendez 1-0-2, Karayannopoulos 3-0-6, Harnroth 4-0-8, Totals 26-2-59. The score by periods: Gateway 5 12 18 24-59 St. James 20 17 11 19-67 Nov. 30 Consolation STJ 64, Steelville 58 St. James: S. Redburn 2-3-8, Boone 2-2-6, H. Redburn 3-29, Gruver 6-2-15, Sparks 5-012, B. Redburn 6-0-14, Totals 24-9-64. Steelville: Light 1-0-3, Harris 2-0-4, Diaz 4-1-9, Mabe 7-018, Brawn 4-2-10, Brice 3-0-7, Mullen 2-3-7, Totals 23-6-58. The score by periods: Steelville 19 10 13 16-58 St. James 17 24 11 12-64 NEWBURG HIGH GIRLS Dec. 6 at Newburg Newburg 42, Waynesville 30 Newburg (5-1): Roach 1-4-7, B. Brookshire 1-1-4, Affolter 6-1-13, Twyman 1-0-3, Rosa 11-3, T. Brookshire 4-4-12, Totals 14-11-42. Waynesville: Gambill 2-0-4, Jones 1-0-2, Brown 1-0-3, Garcia 4-0-8, Hurd 4-3-13, Totals 12-3-30. The score by periods: Waynesville 14 0 10 6-30 Newburg 15 0 18 9-42 Frisco League Tourney Dec. 4 at Laquey Championship Game Licking 61, Newburg 45 Newburg: Roach 2-7-11, B. Brookshire 2-0-6, Affolter 23-7, Rosa 5-3-13, T. Brookshire 3-2-8, Totals 14-15-45. Licking (4-0): Ingram 2-3-7, Taylor 4-0-12, Medlock 8-629, Keaton 1-0-3, A. Sullins 30-6, Cook 2-0-4, Totals 20-961, The score by periods: Newburg 13 15 7 10-45 Licking 15 13 23 10-61 Dec. 1 Semifinals Newburg 60, Richland 41 Newburg: B. Brookshire 1-03, Affolter 10-1-21, Caquelin 10-0-23, Twyman 1-0-2, Rosa 1-1-3, T. Brookshire 1-6-8, Totals 24-8-60. Richland: Moss 6-2-16, Belshe 2-0-5, Morris 0-1-1, Burns 2-04, Latham 3-0-8, Harley 3-1-7, Totals 16-4-41. Richland 5 10 17 9-41 Newburg 12 12 19 17-60 NEWBURG HIGH BOYS Frisco League Tourney Dec. 2 Consolation Stoutland 56, Newburg 55 (OT) Newburg (0-4): D. Harris 2-06, R. Harris 1-0-2, Casey 2-2-6, C. Pound 7-4-23, Baker 1-0-3, G. Pound 5-5-15. Stoutland (3-2): Shaw 4-0-8, Ash 5-3-14, Porter 0-2-2, Crabtree 1-2-5, Hill 2-0-5, Pendergrass 7-7-22. The score by periods: Newburg 3 16 16 12 8-55 Stoutland 12 15 8 12 9-56

LOCAL SCHEDULE Wednesday, Dec. 8 S&T men’s basketball hosts Webster, 7 p.m. at Gibson Arena S&T women’s basketball at Tulsa (exhibition), 6:30 p.m. Rolla High freshman girls’ basketball at Pacific, 5:30 p.m. Rolla Jr. High wrestling hosts Camdenton, California, Fatima, 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9 Rolla High girls’ basketball vs. Springfield Central in first round of Kickapoo Tourney, 7 p.m. Rolla High wrestling hosts Camdenton, 5:30 p.m. at RHS gym; at Lebanon/Nixa JV Meet, 5:30 p.m. Rolla High freshman boys’ basketball at Owensville, 6:30 p.m. Rolla High freshman girls’ basketball at Owensville, 5:30 p.m. Newburg High girls’ basketball at Dixon, 6 p.m. St. James High girls’ basketball at Blair Oaks, 5:30 p.m. Rolla Jr. High eighth-grade girls’ basketball hosts Lebanon, 5:30 p.m. Rolla Jr. High eighth-grade boys’ basketball at Washington, 6:30 p.m. Rolla Jr. High seventh-grade boys’ basketball at Washington, 5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10 Rolla High boys’ basketball hosts Pacific, 5:30 p.m. Rolla High girls’ basketball vs. Jefferson City in Kickapoo Tourney, 8:30 p.m. St. James High boys’ basketball at Salem, 6 p.m. Newburg High boys’ basketball at Stoutland, 6 p.m. Rolla Jr. High seventh-grade girls’ basketball at Lebanon, 5:30 p.m. Rolla Jr. High eighth-grade boys’ basketball hosts Jeff. City Lewis & Clark, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11 S&T women’s basketball hosts William Woods, 1 p.m. at Gibson Arena S&T men’s basketball hosts Westminster, 3 p.m. at Gibson Arena Rolla High girls’ basketball vs. Incarnate Word in Kickapoo Tourney, 1 p.m. Rolla High boys’ basketball at Hermann, 5 p.m. Rolla High wrestling hosts RHS Haskell JV/Noel Girls Tourney at RHS gym St. James girls’ basketball hosts St. James JV Basketball Tourney St. James wrestling at Union Tourney Rolla Jr. High wrestling at Ozark Conference Tourney, 8 a.m. Monday, Dec. 13 Rolla High boys’ basketball at Columbia Hickman, 6 p.m. Rolla High wrestling hosts Marshfield, Sullivan at RHS gym Newburg High girls’ basketball in Linn Invitational St. James High boys’ basketball hosts New Haven, 6 p.m. St. James High girls’ basketball in Sullivan Tourney Tuesday, Dec. 14 Rolla High wrestling hosts Willard at RHS gym Newburg High boys’ basketball hosts Bourbon, 5:30 p.m. Rolla High boys’ freshman basketball hosts Salem, 7:30 p.m. Rolla Jr. High eighth-grade girls’ basketball hosts Licking, 6:30 p.m. Rolla Jr. High seventh-grade girls’ basketball hosts Licking, 5:30 p.m. Rolla Jr. High eighth-grade boys’ basketball hosts Salem, 6:30 p.m. Rolla Jr. High seventh-grade boys’ basketball hosts Salem, 5:30 p.m.

SCOREBOARD

BASKETBALL S&T MEN Dec. 4 at Bolivar SW Baptist 70, S&T 51 The scoring (FG-FT-TP) S&T (2-5, 1-2): Smith 5-2-14, Parker 3-2-8, Froebe 1-0-2, Kaba-Camera 1-0-2, Singleton 1-0-2, Strating 4-1-9, Anthony 3-0-7, Legardy 2-0-5, Johnson 1-0-2, Totals 21-5-51. SW Baptist (7-1, 3-0): Crawford 8-1-19, Beaubrun 4-2-12, Ganote 5-0-12, Nelson 4-0-11, Stone 2-0-6, Aguirre 1-0-3, McMillin 1-0-3, Morales 0-22, Williams 1-0-2, Totals 26-570. Leaders: Rebounds – S&T: Froebe 12; SBU: Miller 6. Assists – S&T: 4 with 1; SBU: 3 with 3. Steals – S&T: Froebe 2; SBU: 3 with 2. 3-PT Made – S&T: Smith 2; SBU: Nelson 3. The score by periods: S&T 25 26-51 SBU 45 25-70 Dec. 2 at Liberty Wm. Jewell 81, S&T 77 S&T (2-4, 1-1): Smith 8-6-26, Froebe 6-2-14, Kaba-Camera 1-3-5, Parker 0-2-2, Legardy 8-3-21, Strating 3-1-7, Anthony 1-0-2, Totals 27-17-77. William Jewell (3-5, 1-1): Jermain 3-5-13, Shannon 3-1-9, Tshiyoyo 4-0-8, Zimmerman 21-7, Hughes 1-2-4, Alexander 7-2-20, McKinley 5-4-16, Ferguson 1-2-4, Totals 26-17-81. Leaders: Rebounds – S&T: Parker 8; WJ: Tshiyoyo 10. Assists – S&T: Froebe, Parker and Legardy 2; WJ: Zimmerman 5. Steals – S&T: Legardy 5; WJ: Alexander 2. 3-PT Made – S&T: Smith 4; WJ: Alexander 4. The score by periods: S&T 27 50-77 Wm. Jewell 34 47-81 S&T WOMEN Dec. 4 at Bolivar SW Baptist 77, S&T 59 S&T (2-5, 1-2): Rodriguez 6-214, Keys 5-1-11, Lindesmith 31-9, Durk 2-0-4, Kerr 1-1-3, Roberts 3-4-10, Puett 2-0-4, M. Davis 0-2-2, Machado 1-02, Totals 23-11-59. SBU (4-4, 2-1): Perry 6-0-17, Vaught 6-3-16, Foster 6-0-12, Pettus 4-2-10, Stumbo 1-0-2, Clayton 2-2-6, Blakemore 20-4, Rohlfing 2-0-4, Gilkey 10-3, Walker 1-0-3, Totals 317-77. Leaders: Rebounds – S&T: Roberts 9; SBU: 3 with 5. Assists – S&T: Roberts 4; SBU: Stumbo and Blakemore 5. Steals – S&T: Durk 3; SBU: 3 with 2. 3-PT Made – S&T: Lindesmith 2; SBU: Perry 5. The score by periods: S&T 13 23 10 13-59 SBU 20 16 18 23-77 Dec. 2 at Liberty S&T 74, Wm. Jewell 62 S&T (2-4, 1-1): Rodriguez 5-417, Keys 5-1-13, Kerr 4-0-8, Lindesmith 2-3-7, Durk 2-0-4, Puett 5-2-13, Roberts 4-4-12, Totals 27-14-74. William Jewell (0-6, 0-2): Collier-Williams 4-2-13, Finn 4-111, Knock 2-4-9, Arnold 2-27, Ostronic 2-1-5, Hillyer 4-111, Ernsting 1-4-6, Totals 1915-62. Leaders: Rebounds – S&T: Keys, Puett and Roberts 6; WJ: Hillyer 9. Assists – S&T: Keys 5; WJ: Collier-Williams 4. Steals – S&T: Lindesmith 3; WJ: Hillyer 2. 3PT Made – S&T: Rodriguez 3; WJ: Collier-Williams 3. The score by periods: S&T 27 12 19 1674 Wm. Jewell 19 17 15 11-62 ROLLA HIGH BOYS Republic Tourney Dec. 4 5th-Place Game Lincoln Prep 41, RHS 37 Rolla (1-3): Klossner 2-2-7, Cooper 1-0-3, Hounsom 2-15, Buhr 1-0-2, Locklear 3-310, Foster 3-0-8, Lindsey 1-0-

10A

FAST BREAK FOOTBALL 17 Miners honored as All-GLVC Missouri S&T had four individuals named to the first team on the Great Lakes Valley Conference’s all-conference football squad among 17 players that earned all-league status for the 2021 season, it was announced Nov. 29. Two members of the S&T offensive unit – wide receiver Breon Michel and offensive tackle Jorge Escalante – along with record-setting linebacker Ben Straatmann and safety Justin Onwugbufor were the Miners’ first team selections to the all-conference team. S&T also had six players chosen to the All-GLVC second team and seven more that earned honorable mention status following a campaign where the Miners finished 6-5 overall and 4-3 in the GLVC. S&T’s selections to the second team were running backs Payton McAlister and Aaron Moya, cornerback Cameron Clemons, defensive linemen Henry Preckel and Jack Roush and defensive utility player Trey Quick. Quick is a former standout at Rolla High School. S&T’s seven honorable mention selections included kick returner Gideon Niboh, punter Parker Boyce, wide receiver Josh Brown, offensive lineman Josh Thornton, McAlister as an offensive utility player, linebackers Dontay White and Jack Hayes.

WRESTLING Tigers tie for 6th at invitational St. James tied for sixth in a 16-school field at the Pleasant Hill/Steve Leslie Invitational, Friday and Saturday. Host Pleasant Hill won the team title with 476.5 points, while Kirksville was runner-up with 415 and Blair Oaks third at 391.5. St. James tied with Chillicothe with 304. Highlighting the day for the STJ Tigers was a tournament championship in the 126-pound weight class by freshman Zeke Moreland and second-place finishes from freshman Luke Marlatt at 106 and junior Cody Wilfong at 152. The Tigers opened the home portion of its schedule by splitting a pair of dual meets Nov. 30 at the STJ gym. STJ defeated Potosi 42-32 and was beaten by Capital City 52-22. In the third meet Capital City drubbed Potosi 72-6. Against Capital City contested Tiger victories came from Moreland in the 126-pound weight class, senior Dakota Kurtti at 138, junior Dylan Schacht at 145 and Cody Wilfong at 152. Wilfong won by pin. Against Potosi, STJ got contested wins from freshman Carter Wilfong at 182, senior Jed Hitch at heavyweight, Kurtti at 138 and Cody Wilfong at 152. Carter Wilfong, Hitch, Kurtti and Cody Wilfong all won by fall.

WOMEN’S SOCCER McCauley resigns as Miner coach Joe McCauley, who led Missouri S&T to its best campaign in more than two decades and to the Great Lakes Valley Conference semifinals during the 2021 season, is stepping down from the program's head coaching position. McCauley guided the Miners to a 9-6-3 record during the past season – S&T’s best record since going 10-7-1 in 1999 – and a 7-4-3 mark in the GLVC. The Miners set a new school record during the 2021 season by recording 12 shutouts and had three players named to the All-GLVC team. It marked the first time the Miners had three players named to the All-GLVC team in the same year. During his 12 seasons as head coach, McCauley led the Miners to three GLVC Tournament appearances.

VOLLEYBALL Gannaway All-Midwest Region HM The American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) announced the 2021 Division II All-Region Teams and major award winners Wednesday and Missouri S&T 5thyear right side Payton Gannaway was named an Honorable Mention All-Midwest Region Selection. Gannaway, a First Team All-GLVC honoree this season, appeared in all 30 matches for the Miners and made 27 starts as part of a 19-11 season. She led team with 427 kills and 60 service aces, and ranked second in the league both categories this season. Gannaway also recorded 223 digs and 70 total blocks.

MEN’S BASKETBALL Miners can’t overcome poor start Missouri S&T was unable to overcome a 17-2 first half run by Southwest Baptist Saturday afternoon, as the Bearcats went on to post a 70-51 win over the Miners in a Great Lakes Valley Conference contest in Bolivar. The Miners (2-5, 1-2 GLVC) trailed 17-16 with 12:12 to play in the first half after guard Kevin Legardy drained a three-point shot, but the Bearcats (7-1, 3-0 GLVC) went on their run over the next six minutes to put S&T into a 16point hole and never looked back to send the Miners to their second straight loss.

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Bearcats pull away late from S&T Missouri S&T played Southwest Baptist close through three quarters before the host Bearcats pulled away in the late going to post a 77-59 Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) victory Saturday at Bolivar. S&T fell to 2-5 overall and 1-2 in the conference while SBU improved to 4-4 and 2-1. Laura Rodriguez was the high-scorer for S&T with 14 points and added three boards, while Kristen Keys added 11 points on 5-7 shooting. Katelynne Roberts finished with 10 points and narrowly missed a double-double, finishing with nine rebounds while also recording four assists and three steals.

TRACK Three NCAA provisional marks Missouri S&T had 14 top-10 finishes and three members of its men’s team that reached NCAA Division II provisional qualifying marks in the team’s opening meet of the season Saturday at the Crimson & Gold Invitational at Pittsburg State University. Nathan Swadley finished second in the shot put with his top mark of 55-10½ and also recorded a seventh place showing in the weight throw with a toss of 55-3. Meanwhile, Jacob Luebbert took third in the weight throw at 60-2 and added a 10th place finish in the shot with a mark of 46-8.

Get daily sports coverage at phelpscountyfocus.com

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Sports

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Short-handed Lady Wolves fall in title game By Dave Roberts Sports Editor dave@phelpscountyfocus.com With just eight players on the roster, depth figures to be a problem all season long for Newburg. And things got worse for the Lady Wolves in the first quarter of the championship game of the Frisco League Tournament Saturday. Second-seeded Newburg was locked in a close battle with top-seeded Licking when Lady Wolf freshman star Akaela Caquelin went down with a leg injury late in the first period. She attempted to return but quickly went back to the bench for the rest of the game. Even without their young point guard, Newburg continued to play evenly with the Licking Lady Wildcats the rest of the half. However, in the second half Licking started to warm up from three-point range and begin to pull away, going on to post a 61-45 victory over Newburg. Also in the girls’ bracket Sat-

urday, third-seeded Richland clipped fourth-seeded Crocker 71-69 in the third-place game while seventh-seeded Laquey got past fifth-seeded Iberia 5745 in the fifth-place game. In the boys’ bracket Saturday, top-seeded Dixon nipped secondseeded Richland 28-27 in the championship game; third-seeded Licking whipped fourth-seeded Plato 81-60 in the third-place game, and sixth-seeded Crocker knocked off fifth-seeded Iberia 60-46 in the fifth-place game. In semifinal action Dec. 1, the Lady Wolves topped Richland 60-41. In the other girls’ semifinal game Licking topped Crocker 65-53. Licking 61, Newburg 45: The Lady Wildcats scored the first two field goals of the third quarter and led the rest of the game. Licking netted a whopping seven 3-pointers in the third period to pull away. Backto-back-to-back treys by Licking ended the quarter. And a threepointer by freshman guard Kinley Keaton to close out the period put Newburg’s deficit at 16 points entering the fourth

quarter, 51-35. Rosa led Newburg with 13 points while Roach, who got the bulk of the playing time replacing Caquelin, added 11. Medlock erupted for 29 points, including seven 3-pointers, to pace Licking, 4-0. In all, the Lady Wildcats netted 12 threepointers. Newburg 60, Richland 41: Caquelin and senior forward Claire Affolter combined for 44 points to power the Lady Wolves in the semifinals. Newburg 42, Waynesville 30: Chalk one up for the smallschool Frisco League over the large-school Ozark Conference. Newburg, of the Frisco League, improved to 5-1 by knocking off the OC’s Waynesville Lady Tigers 42-30 Monday at Newburg High School. The game was close much of the way, as Newburg held a 1514 halftime lead. Affolter finished with 13 points while Taylor Brookshire added 12 for the Lady Wolves. Waynesville was led by 6-1 sophomore post Breona Hurd with 13 points.

Lady Tigers third in Fatima By Dave Roberts Sports Editor dave@phelpscountyfocus.com Another stellar defensive effort carried fourth-seeded St. James to a 59-37 victory over third-seeded Steelville in the third-place game of the Fatima Comet Classic Saturday. In the championship game Saturday top-seeded Jefferson City Helias Catholic (4-0) rallied past second-seeded Fatima (31) 58-55. With sophomore forward Kendall Costoplos scoring six points to lead six Lady Tigers in the scoring column, St. James rolled out to a 20-7 lead after the first quarter. Junior guard Rylee Hancock netted six second-quarter points to help STJ increase its advantage to 3513 by halftime. The Steelville Cardinals were able to cut into their deficit in the third period, limiting St. James to just six points in the quarter. The Lady Tigers led 41-26 heading into the final period. St. James put up 18 more points in the final quarter to pull away. “After a slow start the kids adjusted and were able to make a run off of Steelville turnovers,” said STJ head coach Terry Wells. “We continued to struggle converting baskets. We miss too many layups, three throws and open threes at this point in the season. These girls are capable scorers and they need to start converting, or we will lose close games.” No Lady Tiger player scored in double figures, but nine STJ players scored. Junior guard Livi Herron and Costoplos each had nine points for the winners while freshman guard Ally Hartley and Hancock added

Photo By Dave Roberts St. James freshman guard Lydia Kemnitzer, left, prepares to fire a pass past the defense of Helias’ Mikah Edwards on a fastbreak during semifinal action of the Fatima Comet Classic Dec. 1.

eight each. Both Herron and sophomore guard Emily Recker were named to the all-tournament team for St. James. Helias 53, STJ 51: For most of the time St. James had the upper hand on Helias in semifinal action Dec. 1 at the Fatima Comet Classic. But, oh, that third quarter! After a textbook defensive effort by the Lady Tigers in the first half, the Helias Lady Crusaders busted out with a 27point third quarter to take their first lead. St. James settled back down in the fourth period but the damage was done, as Helias held on for a 53-51 victory. In the other semifinal game Wednesday Fatima knocked off Steelville 47-36. In consolation play Wednesday seventh-seeded Cuba defeated sixth-seeded Sullivan while fifth-seeded Moberly got past eighth-seeded Sedalia Smith-Cotton. Helias came in ranked No. 6

in the Missouri Class 4 state poll. But the Lady Crusaders were out of sorts throughout the first half courtesy of St. James’ suffocating defensive pressure. Herron finished with a gamehigh 16 points and Bullock added 14 for St. James. Manns tallied 16 points and Koelling 15 for the Lady Crusaders. St. James 65, Cuba 22: St. James used a balanced offense and stout defense to stomp the Cuba Lady Wildcats 65-22 in an I-44 matchup Monday at Cuba. St. James improved to 5-1 overall. Sophomore guard Kori Alcorn made her season debut after missing the first several games while recovering from an ACL injury. Alcorn recorded seven points in the third quarter to extend the Lady Tigers’ lead to 30, going into the final period ahead 52-22.

Tigers claim consolation title in Sullivan Phelps County Focus A big first quarter proved to be the difference for St. James Friday, as the Tigers went on to defeat Gateway Legacy 6759 in the consolation final of the Sullivan FCNB Bank-It Invitational. Also Friday, in the tourney championship game Capital City beat Farmington 51-49. Ste. Genevieve took the thirdplace title by topping Potosi 5443. St. James junior Peyton Gruver fired in seven points to help the Tigers bolt to a 20-5 lead. Gruver added another eight

BOYS BASKETBALL points – including his third 3pointer in the half – to help STJ expand its advantage to 37-17 at halftime. An 18-point third period allowed Gateway to narrow the gap. However, the Tigers closed out the game with a 19-point fourth period, including eight points from junior guard Blake Redburn. Blake Redburn netted a gamehigh 23 points to pace St. James while Gruver finished with 20 points.

STJ 64, Steelville 58: Scoring 12 unanswered points down the stretch, St. James rallied to beat Steelville 64-58 in consolation play of the Sullivan FCNB Bank-It Invitational Nov. 30. St. James took a 52-42 lead into the fourth period, but the Cardinals reeled off the first 13 points of the fourth quarter to grab a 55-52 edge. However, St. James was able to regroup and scored 12 unanswered to regain control. Gruver and Blake Redburn each had 14 points to lead STJ while senior forward Logan Sparks added 13.

11A

Opinion

Wayne writes epitaph that would fill a hundred tombstones Wayne stopped what he was doFamily, friends, former employing and told me the short version ees, church family, and represenof how he got started in the grotatives from Southwest Baptist cery business, and why things University (SBU) gathered Dec. 4 like stocking shelves were imporat First Baptist Church in Salem tant to him. for Wayne Gott’s funeral. It was “I like the work,” said Wayne, as much a time of Thanksgiving who always spoke directly and for the life of a Salem institution with little hyperbole. His one-linas it was a time for mourning. ers were full of fact and meaningSure, there was mourning. But ful and often carried a lesson. the resounding theme was one of Wayne’s generosity and caring for That was the end of that conversation. community that few – maybe Wayne’s success story, like his none – have or ever will match. Wayne, age 90, died in his sleep generosity, is well documented. With a loan from his father in Nov. 30 in Silverstone Place in 1954 he started Gott’s Rolla. I break AsGeneral Store in sociated Press Bradleyville. Eight Stylebook rules years later he moved to when I refer to Salem to open Town and him as Wayne Country Supermarket at and not Gott, but the junction of highways everyone knew 32 and 19, and the rest him as Wayne, is a story about the from the youngest American dream. The of his greatlarge chain includes six grandchildren area stores: Country and the members Donald Dodd Mart in Salem, Price of First Baptist Chopper in Rolla, and Church to his forPublisher Country Mart stores in mer business St. James, Steelville, and Dixon, partners and employees. as well as Town and Country in He was Wayne, not Mr. Gott, Licking. and there is a reason for that. Over two decades of working “I can say I don’t think I’ve ever and worshipping with Wayne met a better people person than taught me a lot. He wasn’t a perWayne,” Joe Polizzi, who married fect man, and none of us are, but one of Wayne’s granddaughters, there was a reason so many peoAmber, and now runs the grocery ple showed up Saturday to exstore chains that Wayne founded, press their thankfulness, whether told those in attendance Saturit was for him being a good grandday. “He could talk to anybody pa, boss, choir member, or for his about anything.” generosity. That pretty much sums up “There is a life principal which Wayne. But there is more to his says, ‘We all write our own life’s story…much, much more. epitaph,’” Phil Newcom, who I have known Wayne since late served as minister of music and 1995, when we moved from Miseducation at First Baptist Church sissippi to Missouri to begin the for 18 years, said during Saturprocess of ownership of Salem day’s service. “That means we Publishing Company. I learned will be remembered for what we quickly that these six things did and did not do while we lived meant a lot to Wayne: his faith, on this earth. Your life’s actions, family, his church family, gospel deeds and words will be recorded music, his ever-growing grocery in the hearts and minds of family and banking businesses, and Southwest Baptist University. My and friends and coworkers and acquaintances whether good or guess is that was also his order of bad. priority, but he poured himself “Life here can be lived making and his resources into each and an incredible impact on those who every one of them. watch you. But the opposite is I have a unique perspective on true as well, when you live a live Wayne due to the fact I know in a destructive manor. Wayne’s most of his family and consider willingness to give of his personal them friends, attended church with him, and served with him on resources to charitable causes made an impact not only locally the SBU-Salem advisory commitand in the state of Missouri, but tee for over 25 years. internationally as well.” To put it simply, Wayne and I Then Newcom, who is retired attended a lot of meetings. So, I and now lives in Arkansas, rewas able to see him in each and counted the story of how Wayne every one of those aspects of his responded to a great need half a life, and what I saw was a life world away. filled with love, generosity and First Baptist Church for many compassion. It would short-change Wayne to years took mission teams to and sponsored a fellow Baptist church say he was simply a giver of his in Cantemir, Moldova, led by the resources. Lots of people finanBoncev family. When the Boncevs cially blessed can write a donawere in Salem to talk to the contion check and still have plenty gregation, Wayne learned that deleft. But Wayne did it with comspite Minnesota-like weather in passion, with a keen eye for need Cantemir, the church had no and without hesitation. More heat. He made sure they had a than once I was in the Salem heating system installed soon and Country Mart and would see later a metal roof. Wayne instruct a checker to sack Wayne worked the same way a person in need’s groceries and when Salem needed a building to not charge them. Sometimes he’d house SBU, and now we have not reach in his pocket and give them only the SBU Gott Center for some cash. On many occasions Christian Higher Education, but he’d learn of a need, slip me a thousands of residents who couple hundred dollars, and ask earned a college education withme to handle it for him. It wasn’t out leaving town. If you look at that Wayne didn’t want to be the plaque at the senior center, bothered, he just often wanted to Wayne was a board member when help without fanfare or credit. it was built. He gave more than His generosity to First Baptist his money, serving as a deacon at Church, SBU, and the music inFirst Baptist Church, as interim dustry are well documented. Sufpresident at SBU, on the Salem fice to say Wayne gave lots and Area Chamber of Commerce and lots of money to lots and lots of as an often silent supporter of the people and causes. Meramec Music Theatre in He also gave of himself. Years Steelville, where Southern Gospel ago I stopped by Country Mart to talk to Wayne – a man who owned is an important part of its existence. all or part of two grocery store There is more, so much more to chains and a group of banks – and the life of Wayne Gott, whose epihe was stocking shelves. If I retaph has been written and whose member right, it was a case of legacy will go on for many years. sliced peaches in heavy syrup. AfDonald Dodd is publisher of ter I asked Wayne whatever it Phelps County Focus. He can be was I was there to ask him, I inreached at donald@phelpscountyquired why he was stocking focus.com. shelves.

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

12A

News

Ringing the bell in honor of Dr. Mary Bruns By Kaitlin Brothers Staff Writer kaitlin@ phelpscountyfocus.com Dr. Mary Bruns was not the type of person to boast about her good deeds. Even though she greatly impacted the lives of many families in Phelps County while on the board of the Salvation Army, she happily made a difference behind the scenes rather than on the forefront: all to simply do the most good for her community. “She was just that way,” said Dr. Ed Bruns, Mary’s husband. “She didn’t want any accolades and thank you’s.” Mary passed away Oct. 7, 2021, just a little over one year after she retired from Phelps Health. It happened to also be on their 60th wedding anniversary. Found Food Program & Elderly Needs While on the board, Mary made a lot of impact on families, as well as an impact for the elderly in need. One of Mary’s first projects was the Found Food Program. When she was 65 years old, she had a discussion with Ed about the time she had left on this Earth. This is time that she didn’t want to waste. During an evening at the dinner table, she said, “You know what? I may only have five or ten years left to live. I need to get busy!” So, at age 65 she joined the Salvation Army Board of Directors and immediately started the Found Food Program, which now has a huge impact on local families. “About five years ago, Pastor Ron calculated the benefit to Phelps County, and it was over half a million dollars a year,” Ed said. “And now I’m going to estimate it’s over $2 million a

year, and 1,000 people a month are benefiting, which is amazing.” Also, during her time on the board she cared deeply for the elderly’s needs. Her heart went to the Salvation Army Social Services Department. “Doctor Mary’s influence on me through the years has given me more drive,” said Salvation Army Service Center Manager Pam Lucas. “When I started working at the Salvation Army, we took walkers, wheel chairs, Depends and other small medical equipment and [gave] them to people in need. Dr. Mary broadcasted this need.” For elderly people who don’t have medical coverage, this can be a lifesaver. “The Physical Therapy Department sends people over here that doesn’t have a resource to get them, so Dr. Mary was the conduit,” Lucas said. Dr. Mary’s Angel Money When Mary retired from Phelps Health a year ago, she asked to not have any sort of party or recognition. Instead, she asked the hospital to make a donation to the Salvation Army. They ended up giving $1,000, which the store labeled as “Dr. Mary’s Angel Money.” Dr. Mary’s Angel Money was recently put to good use. A few weeks ago, Lucas found a need that the money was able to provide help for: the Dent-Phelps R-III School. Ed says the school provides food for disadvantaged families. “But they didn’t have any money for Christmas gifts and that sort of thing,” Ed said. “When Dr. Mary gave me this money, she said we’ll know what to do with it when the time is right,”

said Lucas. So, when Billy Chapman, Salvation Army Board Member, came to Lucas and wondered how they could help the school, Lucas knew just what to do. “I said, ‘I know exactly what Dr. Mary would want us to do.’” Lucas said. “And I got the envelope out and I gave it to Billy. We both started crying.” The Salvation Army donated backpacks to the students for Christmas gifts. The school board provide the Christmas gifts along with the backpacks. “So, with Dr. Mary’s Angel Money, the kids are going to have a better Christmas this year,” Ed said. The Bell Ringer’s Impact Lucas said every year, she worries if they will raise enough funds to meet the needs of people in Phelps County. “But I am reminded of the Bell Ringing motto: ‘Doing the most good.’ That is what we do. We do the most good with the funds we are provided,” she said. “I am the small light when I ring bells. I feel like people have hope when they see every year, the willingness of people to step up and help.” This year, the Salvation Army bell ringing program is in honor of Mary, and for all the effort she put into helping the people in our area. The bell ringing event is the biggest fundraising effort of the year for the Salvation Army. The funds go toward the department to assist with social services in the community. That department, along with the medical equipment and elderly needs, also holds the small emergency food pantry, backpacks for the school year and helps families with

rent and electric bills. “When the Salvation Army steps up to the plate and helps people in the community, that’s all part of this [Bell Ringer] Program,” Ed said. “That’s why it’s important for people to know if they’ve got change or a few dollars...donate.” Ed mentioned that an anonymous member of the community has been giving a gold coin (worth at least $1,800) in the red kettles every year for the past decade. Lucas added since they started the program this year, people have been giving $100 bills. “When I pick up the kettle, I go straight to the bank,” Lucas said. “I do one at a time. Every time that we open that kettle at the bank, I go ‘Ah!’ (In joy) because it’s very exciting. That, to us, means everything, because that’s our year.” The annual revenue from the bell ringing is usually a whopping 35-45 thousand dollars. Last year, they exceeded that with $50,000. Spread the Blessings Ed stressed that even though the members of the Salvation Army are small, their mission is big. “The numbers are small for the amount of good they do,” he said. “As I said, probably the benefit to the community is maybe $2 million and touches maybe 1,500 people a month. That’s a lot of people here.” “If you want to help spread the blessing of helping through the next year, ring the bell for others in need and make your change be the change,” Lucas said. In honor of Dr. Mary Bruns, you can ring a bell for the Salvation Army. To learn how, call (573) 368-4919.

Photo courtesy of Pam Lucas Dr. Mary Bruns was on the Board of the Salvation Army since she was 65 years old. Since she passed away last year, the Salvation Army is doing the Bell Ringing Program in honor of Mary. Shown here from left: Connie Collins, board member, Pastor Ron Sluder of the Nazarene Church, and Dr. Mary Bruns at a previous bell ringing event.

Photo by Kaitlin Brothers Dr. Ed Bruns poses with the red kettle at the Salvation Army last week at the Rolla store.

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Help Wanted

St. James Senior Center is recruiting an energetic and enthusiastic person as a fulltime Administrative Coordinator. Benefits include vacation, sick and holiday. Plan, direct, and coordinate marketing policies and programs to include branding, and advertising plans. Oversee development and monitor trends that indicate the need for new services. Plan, direct, and review fundraising events. Coordinate all activities. Experience with computers and software programs, working with public relations and media sources, including social media and website management. Wonderful environment working with and interacting withsenior citizens. Wonderful environment working with and interacting with senior citizens. If you think you might be a good fit, stop by at 113 W. Eldon in St. James to complete an application. Call for details: 573-265-2047, ask to speak with Nancy. Pay commensurate with experience.

APARTMENTS 4 BEDROOM 2 BATH, 8 blocks from campus or 5 BEDROOM 4 BATH, 7 blocks from campus, or 6 BEDROOM 5 BATH, 5 blocks from campus. 308-8388. 7tf APARTMENT COMPLEX, IDEAL for Sorority/Fraternity/Sports Team, 10 Bedrooms, 9 Bathrooms, 5 Kitchens. Downtown Rolla. 308-8388. 7-tf 4, 5, 6, 7 & 10 Bedrooms, 1 block from Missouri S&T. 308-8388. 7-tf 10 BEDROOM, 5 Bath Apartment, 2 Kitchens, Downtown or 4 bedroom, 3 Bath, 5 blocks from Campus. 308-8388. 7-tf 5 BEDROOM 3 Bath, also 7 Bedroom 5 Bath; 8 blocks from MS&T 3088388. 7-tf COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE Available 1652 Sq. Ft. 825 S. Bishop 308-8388. 7-tf 1,000 SQUARE FEET m/l, mostly open area with breakroom and bathroom, lighted sign available for use above the office. Call Mindy at (573) 578-2227 for more information. 4-tf

HELP WANTED

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Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

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phelpscountyfocus.com SMALL TRUCKING COMPANY accepting applications for owner-operator teams Flatbed Freight. 573-437-7711. 18-4t-9 THE CITY OF ROLLA is seeking applicants for a full-time equipment operator position in the Environmental Services Department. Duties include collection of solid waste and/or recyclables. Pay range $15.55 - $20.60 is dependent upon experience and qualifications. Excellent benefit package included. Great working hours Monday-Friday. Requirements include class B CDL with air endorsement or the ability to obtain within 60 days, and high school diploma or GED. Application and a full job description available at the Rolla Recycling Center, 2141 Old St. James Rd, or visit the City’s web site; w w w. r o l l a c i t y. o r g . EOE/ADA. 2-2t-9 THE CITY OF ROLLA is seeking applicants for a full-time laborer position in the Environmental Services Department. Duties include collection of solid waste and/or recyclables. Pay range $14.14 – $18.73 is dependent upon experience and qualifications. Excellent benefit package included. Great working hours Monday – Friday. Requirements include high school diploma or GED. Application and a full job description available at the Rolla Recycling Center, 2141 Old St. James Rd, or visit the City’s website: w w w. r o l l a c i t y. o r g . EOE/ADA. 2-2t-9

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Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

14A

News

DR. MARY BRUNS/Impact will be felt in community for years to come From Page 1A And Dr. Mary recruited people to help. Other food donated by the companies to Dr. Mary’s found-food ministry was distributed with the help of volunteers at various places, such as the parking lots of Newburg First Baptist Church, the parking lot of Greentree Christian Church and the Phelps County Faith Distribution at Grace Church.

A ministry with impact “Several years ago, maybe five years ago now, Pastor Ron (Sluder, senior pastor at Rolla Church of the Nazarene) did a calculation of the fiscal impact and the impact on the people of Phelps County, everybody that was participating in this found-food mission,” Dr. Ed said.

In honor of Dr. Mary Bruns, you can ring a bell for the Salvation Army. To learn how, see story page 12A or call (573) 368-4919. The estimate at that time was more than half a million dollars in food benefit for more than 1,000 people per month.” It has, no doubt, grown significantly since then. “It’s a huge benefit to the people of Phelps County,” Dr. Ed said. Even more companies and institutions joined in the found-food ministry. “The hospital wasn’t participating, so Mary invited then-CEO Ed Clayton to one of the food distributions. When he saw how many people had benefited and how hard the volunteers worked, the hospital got involved,” Dr. Ed said. Matt’s Steakhouse would call after major events and either Dr. Mary or volunteer Billy Chapman would go pick up the food. “And then, of course, COVID changed everything for a while,” Dr. Ed said. Despite COVID and its worldwide pandemic of fear, the local community continues to volunteer and help local people in need. Dr. Ed estimated at least 2025 people active in all the organizations that are helping to feed people. “But, then, beyond that there’s probably 200-300 volunteers that participate and help in some way that they can,” he said. COVID has required some adapting. For instance, found-food is used for seniors breakfasts and luncheons. “Since COVID, these are drive-through,” he said. “The unfortunate part about that is the fellowship is as important as the food, but you miss the fellowship now. But, anyway, it continues on, and I’m glad of it.””

How she became Dr. Mary “Mary was from around Kirksville—Gibbs, Missouri—raised on a family farm. “When she was eight years old, she got rheumatic fever. Her father, who was a farmer, not a doctor, made the diagnosis. He said, ‘You don’t just look right.’ He

listened to her heart, his ear to her chest and took her to her family doctor, and sure enough, she had rheumatic fever.” The family doctor let the little girl look at her blood cells through the microscope, let her listen to her own heart with a stethoscope, listen to his heart with his stethoscope. “And so at the age of eight, she knew she wanted to be a doctor,” Dr. Ed said. “So her two brothers got 80 acres of farmland when they became of age. She wanted a microscope and a medical education, so she went to Northeast Missouri State which is now Truman.” And she did three years of pre-med in two years, going in the summers, and then four years in medical school. “So, she got a bachelor’s degree and a medical degree in six years, which was pretty unusual in those days,” he said. There were only three women in her class. “So then, she took an internship in Kirksville. Then she went into practice in Memphis, Missouri, which was about 10 miles from the Iowa line,” he said. Dr. Ed said he is also from northeast Missouri and met Mary at college. “I was raised in Clarence, Missouri, which is still northeast Missouri,” Dr. Ed said. “I went to Truman State and that’s where we met. My best friend came home from class one day, and he said, ‘I met this girl in class today you’ve got to meet.’” So, the friend set up a blind date at a restaurant where 25 cents bought two sweet rolls, and that sweetness started the courtship. “She hooked me, and we got married and Oct. 7, 1961,” he said And during those years of medical work, the Drs. Bruns raised three daughters. “We have three daughters and three sons-in law,” Dr. Ed said. “And they’re all doctors.” Yes, all the daughters and all the sons-in-law are physicians. “And as my wife and I were doctors, we have what you might call a medial family,” he said.

A call from Rolla In 1974, the Brunses moved to St. Louis, and the two doctors set up separate practices. “And then, Joe Bond called me,” he said. “He was a prior resident in internal medicine, and he said he needed help here. So, we decided to move to Rolla in 1990 and join them in forming the Bond Clinic.” So, the Drs. Bruns moved to Rolla, joining Drs. Joe and Cathy Bond at the Bond Clinic. “We were 25 years building that organization. We recruited all of our physicians that worked there. And I’m really proud of our contribution to the healthcare in Phelps County and surrounding counties through Bond Clinic. It was a lot of work”. Dr. Ed retired in 2015 for the second time. He had retired in 2010 when Phelps County Regional Medical Center, now Phelps Health, bought the clinic. Then-CEO John Denbo recruited him to return and he worked until 2015, retiring at age 75.

Dr. Mary’s other community service Another area of community service that Dr. Mary was involved with also continues. That is the senior center steering committee that has been looking for a place to build a new senior center for Rolla, similar to what other communities have. A site had been found and there appears to be progress towards such a center. “She had her finger in so many pies,” Dr. Ed said of Dr. Mary’s community service. She was involved with the community intervention team through the Rolla Police Department. “Her latest project was setting up trips for the ABLE Commission for seniors. “They went to a pig farm up in Linn. They did a trip

Parson proposes $15 minimum wage for state workers

to Lake of the Ozarks and took a cruise. The went to an apple orchard in Western Illinois,” Dr. Ed said. “She thought seniors’ lives were enriched by enriching their experiences through trips like that.” No matter where she went, even after retirement, a patient would come up and speak to her, often thanking her, Dr. Ed said. “She would always try to help if she could. So, even though she retired, she really wasn’t retired.” She still kept her medical license in force; right up until the day she died, which was on their 60th wedding anniversary, Oct. 7. “We had 60 great years together,” he said. “She was going to retire her medical license at the end of this year. “I told the family: We retired her medical license with honor on Oct. 7.”

By Rudi Keller Missouri Independent Gov. Mike Parson wants to tap Missouri’s enormous budget surplus to provide immediate raises to state employees and enact a new $15 an hour minimum pay for all state jobs. In a news release issued Monday, Parson said he will ask lawmakers to speed a supplemental budget bill to his desk to provide a 5.5 percent cost-of-living pay raise, plus money to move all state workers to the new minimum, by Feb. 1. Lawmakers begin their 2022 session on Jan. 5. “With many positions across state government facing turnover rates anywhere from 10-100 percent and vacancy rates from 30100 percent, it is past time for us to make these investments in our state

workforce, which remains one of the lowest paid (in) the nation,” Parson said in the release. The release estimated the cost of the raises at $91 million through June 30, including $52 million in general revenue. Parson estimates that the cost to continue the raises into the next fiscal year will cost the state $218 million, including $123 million in general revenue. The raises across state government will be in addition to the 2 percent costof-living raise that will go into effect on Jan. 1. The minimum wage for private employers in Missouri is $10.30 an hour, scheduled to increase to $11.15 an hour on Jan. 1. Missouri had a budget surplus of almost $4 billion in early November.

Sugar and Spice COOKBOOK Corn Meal & Molasses Bread by Kay Jones Mrs. Acuff’s Raw Apple Cake by Lorene Dalrymple Stir-N-Drop Sugar Cookies by Clara McNeil Southern Hash by Mrs. Joe Todd Apple Crumb Pie by Mrs. J.C. Flett

Plus Tax

Cooked Coon by Mrs. “Red” Litty Those are just a few of the hundreds of recipes found in the historical Sugar and Spice Cookbook, compiled in 1962 by Margaret Vickery, former owner of The Salem News. Vickery's Sugar and Spice recipe column was published weekly by Vickery for over a decade, then compiled and printed as a cookbook in 1962. Salem Publishing has reprinted the book for future generations to enjoy. You will recognize lots of familiar names, as those providing the recipes still have ancestors living in Dent and surrounding counties. The cookbook also contains photos and stories about Salem residents of the 1960s!

A great holiday gift!

Get your copy of Sugar and Spice Today at The Salem News, 500 N. Washington St. in Salem or Phelps County Focus, 101 West 7th Street in Rolla. To have a copy mailed, call The Salem News, (573) 729-4126.

B Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo. Thursday, December 9, 2021

Light the Night focuses on true meaning of Christmas Pictured are the Irish Shamrock Dancers and Mayor Louis Magdits at this year’s Light the Night ceremony. Below is the Rolla Community Choir, directed by Jeff Sandquist.

Flirting ban in Rolla! Century-old ordinances telling of the times The passage of time has created a sort of mystery at Rolla City Hall. Specifically, why did then Mayor Charles T. Strobach sign more than a dozen ordinances the single day of March 11, 1908. The Rolla Herald editions printed that month more than a century ago shed no light on the development. Stranger still is the breadth of the ordinances. They range from procedural matters to establish a municipal telephone and sewer system, to strict regulations on personal conduct. This week, The Insider takes a look back at some of the more interesting ordinances signed by Mayor Strobach and included in the Phelps County Focus archives.

Flirting ban? The 1908 ordinances established several regulations on children in Rolla. No. 68 states “all minors under the age of 16 years who shall be found loitering or idling in the streets, alleys, or any other public place within the corporate limits of the City of Rolla after the hour of nine o’clock at night shall be arrested by the Marshal or Night Policeman and committed to the city calaboose until 7 o’clock in the morning.” Calaboose is an antiquated term for jail. The ordinance also says the City Marshal shall ring the fire bell every night at 9 p.m. to warn youths of the hour. Ordinance No. 83 (signed by Strobach June 1, 1908) states any person or persons found playing or tossing a ball on the streets of Rolla, between Sixth and Ninth streets, and Rolla and Elm streets, shall be fined not less than $1 and not more than $5 for each offense. On St. Patrick’s Day, 1909, Mayor Strobach signed another ordinance which reportedly banned flirting in Rolla. The item ended up making national news with articles detailing it was passed through the lobbying demands of the railroad. Ordinance No. 104’s language states, “Any person or persons who shall use any loud or unusual or obscene language, or who shall endeavor to attract attention by annoying passengers either by waving of hands, tipping of hats or by calls or college yells or shall make ungentlemanly remarks to anyone be they citizens or passengers in the cars, either on the depot platform or right of way shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor.” An exemption was included in the ordinance allowing for “college yells” during the departure of a classmate. Those found guilty of violating the ordinance faced a fine of not less than $5 and no more than $25.

Photos by Meghan Williams

Out &

About with the Insider

Infectious diseases By Meghan Williams Sowers Intern It’s that time of year once again. Residents of Rolla were gathered downtown Friday in the unusually warm weather for the fourth annual Lichternacht or Light the Night Festival. They enjoyed music from various local artists, performances by the Irish Shamrock Dancers and the Ozark Spirit Cloggers. When 7:15 p.m. rolled around, the crowd gathered in front of the Rolla Public Library, the host of this event, and anxiously awaited the lighting of the town Christmas tree. Mayor Louis Magdits gave his quick speech as the clock struck a quarter after seven.

“I would like to especially thank our business sponsors, Rolla Breakfast Rotary Club, the Rolla Area Sister Cities Association, various departments of the city, the Rolla Chamber of Commerce and of course, the Rolla Library, which is our host,” the mayor said. “I would also like to thank our performers: The Ozark Spirit Brothers, the Irish Shamrock Dancers. Last, but not least, I would like to thank Jeff Sandquist and the Rolla Community Choir,” said Mayor Magdits. Before the ceremonious lighting of the tree, the mayor reminded the crowd of the true spirit of Christmas. “Although this is a civic event, let’s not forget that Christmas is

Rolla Lions Club Park will be transformed once again for the 21st Christmas in the Park. This event will take place Dec. 8- 18. The lights will be on display from 6 -9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6-9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. This year’s special guests will include Frosty, Santa and the Grinch. This event is free, but donations are accepted. Information: https://files.constantcontact.com

Rolla Parks and Recreation is hosting An Adventure on the Christmas Train from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9 and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11 at Schuman Park on and around the newly restored Frisco 1501 engine, oil tender, and passenger car, 404 E. 16th St. Children and parents will embark on the Storybook Trail, with this year’s story, “A Christmas Carol.” The story will unfold over a number of stops, where each portion of the story will have a related activity. There will also be a performance by Fine Linen Theatre. Crafts, games, hot cocoa and cookies are all part of

an important Christian holiday based on such things as joy and gift,” said the mayor. Then the long-awaited moment approached. Santa’s elves assisted Miss Route 66 in pulling the lever and lighting the tree. Sandquist conducted the Rolla Community Choir in a series of Christmas carols and the downtown was filled with holiday spirit once again. After the choir finished their final song, the Irish Shamrock Dancers led the crowd through the night by lantern light down to a couple of tents on Seventh Street. There the festivities continued. Many holiday treats were provided, including s’mores. Holiday carols were sung late into the night.

WHAT’S TRENDING

the festivities, along with an appearance by Santa. Pre-registration is required as seating is limited. Tickets are $5 per family, with proceeds going to Give Christmas, sponsored by Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce in which clothing items and gifts are presented to area children in need. For more information or to volunteer, contact Marie Crowley at mcrowley@rollacity.org or visit rollamoparks.recdesk.com/community/program.

The Democratic Club of Phelps County will hold its annual holiday dinner and silent auction from 5-8:30 p.m. Dec. 11 at the Oak Meadow Country Club in Rolla.

Does the government have the right to enforce public health orders? Well, in 1908, the city council certainly asserted it did. Ordinance No. 39 creates a local health board and specifically authorizes the City Marshal to enforce its orders. Within the ordinance, Section 7 orders all doctors to report to the health board every case of infectious disease occurring within the city or one mile from its the limits, and to do so within 12 hours of discovery. Failure to report would result in a $50 fine. Section 8 also authorizes the health board to remove persons with infectious diseases to quarantine centers or be confined within their dwellings. If so, “suitable notices with the name or character of the disease [shall be] printed or written in large letters thereon to be posted upon the most conspicuous place on or near such dwelling or abode in which such contagious or infectious disease exists, and require of the occupant thereof to maintain such notice there until, in the opinion of the board of health, they may be safely discontinued.” See Flirting Page 14B

The speaker will be President Angie Honse Dunlap of the League of Women Voters of Metro St. Louis. Dunlap will speak about the Missouri Ballot Initiative process and how ballot initiatives have been used in recent years. She is a native of Vienna who received a degree in Aerospace Engineering from Missouri S&T. The cost is $30. Everyone is asked to wear a mask and practice social distancing to what extent possible. Information/registration: contact Morgan J. Bearden at morganjbearden@gmail.com (573) 578-2982 or Myrna Rueff at dals@rollanet.org (573) 465-8058 or visit www.demclubphelps.org. CenterPointe of Maryville will host an open house Dec. 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and/or Education Lecture 12 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 1070 South Bishop Ave, Suite B Rolla. Drop by to meet the staff and learn about our outpatient programs and/or attend the lecture. There will also be door prizes and refreshments. Information/RSVP: (573) 286-6941 or email ooshaughnessy@chcmo.net.

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Insider

Cut the carbs – just until Christmas!

If you’re anything like me, you might have overdone it just a tad on the Thanksgiving meals. Even still, you’re already planning for what to serve at Christmas. As such, I’ve decided to do a little carb cutting in between holidays. Join me when you try these recipes! Air Fryer Cajun Chicken and Veggies 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced 2 T olive oil 1 T Cajun seasoning 2 tsp. garlic powder 2 tsp. pepper 1 tsp. onion powder 1 tsp. smoked paprika 1/8 tsp. oregano 1/8 tsp. thyme 1 pint cherry tomatoes 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 large zucchini, diced Mix the diced chicken breast with the olive oil and seasonings. Stir to fully coat the chicken, then add the tomatoes, bell pep-

Skyler Howard Food for Thought per and zucchini. Stir thoroughly. Transfer the chicken and vegetables to the air fryer basket and cook at 400 F for 8 minutes. Stir and cook for an additional 8 minutes. Repeat once more, cooking for a total of about 22 minutes. Burger Bowl Meat: 1 lb. ground beef 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. garlic powder 1/4 tsp. pepper 1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard 1/4 c. cheddar cheese,

shredded Bowl: 4 c. green lettuce, chopped 1/2 c. grape tomatoes, sliced 1/4 c. dill pickle, chopped 1/4 c. red onion, diced 1/2 c. cheddar cheese, shredded 1 avocado, sliced 1/2 c. burger sauce of your choice Cook ground beef in a medium skillet over medium heat. Break up the meat while it cooks. Add salt, garlic powder and pepper to the meat while it cooks. Continue cooking until meat is browned. Remove from heat and drain excess grease. Add the Worcestershire, Dijon and cheddar cheese to the cooked meat. Stir to combine and allow the cheese to melt. In a medium bowl or plate, layer the lettuce, cooked meat, tomatoes, pickle, red onion, avocado

and shredded cheese. Drizzle with sauce (I use ranch dressing). Shrimp & Cauliflower Grits 1 lb. raw, peeled, deveined shrimp 1/2 T Cajun seasoning 1 T lemon juice 1/4 c. chicken broth 1 T butter 2 1/2 c. finely riced cauliflower 1/2 c. unsweetened almond milk 1/4 tsp. salt 2 T sour cream 1/3 c. shredded cheddar cheese 1/4 c. scallions, thinly sliced Cooking spray Toss the shrimp and the Cajun seasoning together in a large bowl. Spray a medium skillet with cooking spray, then warm over medium heat. Cook the shrimp until it’s pink, about 3 minutes per side. Add the lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan and let simmer

for 1 minute. Set aside. In a separate skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add riced cauliflower and cook for 5 minutes. Add almond milk and salt, then cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in sour cream and cheese until melted. Serve the shrimp on top of the grits and garnish with scallions. Korean Beef Lettuce Wraps 1 tsp. sesame oil 1 lb. ground beef 1 c. shredded carrots 4 T low-sodium soy sauce 3 cloves garlic, finely minced 1 T grated ginger 3 T brown sugar 1/4 tsp. Sriracha sauce 3 tsp. water 2 tsp. cornstarch 12 medium green lettuce leaves (butter lettuce preferred) 1/2 c. sliced green onions, for garnish

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the sesame oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the beef and brown until almost cooked through. Add the carrots and cook until just slightly soft. Add the soy sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar and Sriracha. Stir well to combine. Combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl with a whisk. Add the mixture to the pan and stir thoroughly as the sauce thickens. Remove pan from heat and serve the beef in its sauce over the lettuce, garnished with green onion. Skyler Howard, from Licking and a graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism, has been writing Food for Thought since 2010. A former intern for Salem Publishing Company, she now lives in the Kansas City area. You can reach her at contact@phelpscountyfocus.com.

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12445 State Route CC, Rolla, MO | (573) 364-4625 Office Hours: Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm | Saturday & Sunday: By appointment

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Looking AHEAD COMING SOON FRIDAY, DEC. 10 • CenterPointe of Maryville will host an open house from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and/or Education Lecture 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at 1070 South Bishop Ave, Suite B Rolla. Drop by to meet the staff and learn about our outpatient programs and/or attend the lecture. There will also be door prizes and refreshments. Information/RSVP: 286-6941 or email ooshaughnessy@chcmo.net.

SUNDAY, DEC. 12 • Salem Avenue Baptist Church adult choir will perform “Sounds of the Season.” Worship starts at 10:30 a.m. and a college lunch will follow after the service.

FRIDAY, DEC. 24 • Salem Avenue Baptist Church will host its Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 5 p.m.

TUESDAY, DEC. 28 • Phelps Health will offer a Safe Sitter class from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Phelps Health Human Resources Classrooms, located near the North Entrance of the hospital, 1000 West 10th Street, Rolla. This class is designed to prepare students in grades six through eight to be safe when they are home alone, watching younger siblings or babysitting. The instructor-led class is filled with fun games and role-playing exercises. Students even get to use manikins to practice rescue skills. The class fee is $65, and lunch will be provided. Preregistration is required. The class size is limited to 10 and masks are required. Information: call 458-7691 or email jchapman@phelpshealth.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 22 • The Rolla Mission is hosting its first annual 5k at 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. called “A Walk in Their Shoes.” The walk will start at The Mission and end at Your Community Health Center. The initiative is to raise awareness of some of the challenges that people experiencing homelessness face. Along the way, they will highlight stories of people they have helped at The Rolla Mission. For the registration form, go to the Facebook Event page: A Mile in Their Shoes First Annual 5K or you can register online at https://mileintheirshoes.itsyourrace.com/. Information: Sara Berry by phone or email with any questions, 308-5474 or sara@therollamission.org.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 26 • University of Missouri Extension will hold a free online class on produce safety for gardeners 6-8 p.m. Jan. 26. MU Extension horticulturists Patrick Byers and Justin Keay will offer tips on

growing, harvesting, processing and storing produce safely. Participants will learn best practices to reduce the risk of foodborne illness from harvested garden produce. Information/registration: muext.us/GardenProduceSafety2022.

ONGOING • Rolla VFW hosts karaoke night every third Friday of the month. Information: 364-2025 • Rolla Community Choir will rehearse on Monday evenings from 7-9 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Rolla. Rehearsals will begin in the Fellowship Hall and then move to the Sanctuary. All participants must be masked (singing masks will be provided) until the current spike in COVID cases declines. Information: www.rollachoirs.org. • Heather Smith, an experienced artist and art teacher, will be teaching art classes at the Watson Art Center in St. James every Monday and Thursday. She will teach many artistic skills, such as composition, painting, drawing and color theory, composition, perspective, value and shading, while enjoying playful, process-based art with STEAM elements. Classes are $55 per month. Information: openendedartclasses@gmail.com. • Free food for kids at Rolla First Assembly of God. There will be a drive through/pickup on Mondays from 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. Information: 3641266. • Food distribution is the first Wednesday of the month from 10 a.m.- 12 p.m. at Phelps County Faith Distribution (12640 South U.S. Highway 63, just north of the Fairgrounds). Patrons should be prepared to come into the food distribution building and bring a laundry basket or boxes for their food. The third Saturday of the month is 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. The last distribution date for 2021 is Dec. 18. For more information about food eligibility, volunteering or donating, go to phelpscountyfood.org. • Ozark Actors Theatre’s community branch “The Cedar Street Players” will present “A Christmas Story: The Musical from Dec. 9-19. This classic holiday tale centers on a mischievous, bespectacled boy, Ralphie, who dreams of getting a BB-gun for Christmas. In the weeks before the big holiday, Ralphie, his friends and his family get into all kinds of situations — including run-ins with a bully with “yellow eyes,” a tongue stuck to a flagpole, a bar of soap in the mouth, a garish leg lamp, a major award and a Chinese Christmas dinner. The show will be directed by St. Louis’s Bekah Harbison and choreographed by 2019 “Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Jordan Woods with musical direction by, Rolla’s own, Jeff Williams; and RHS student, Zachary Phelps, leading costume design. Ticket prices: $16 for

Submit items to contact@phelpscountyfocus.com

adults, $14 for military, $14 for students, $12 for children under 13. Information: https://www.ozarkactorstheatre.org/christmasstory. • Rolla Parks and Recreation is hosting “An Adventure on the Christmas Train” from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. tonight and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday at Schuman Park on and around the newly restored Frisco 1501 engine, oil tender, and passenger car, 404 E. 16th Street. Children and parents will embark on the Storybook Trail, with this year’s story, “A Christmas Carol.” The story will unfold over a number of stops, where each portion of the story will have a related activity. There will also be a performance by Fine Linen Theatre. Crafts, games, hot cocoa and cookies are all part of the festivities, along with an appearance by Santa. Pre-registration is required as seating is limited. Tickets are $5 per family, with proceeds going to Give Christmas, sponsored by Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce in which clothing items and gifts are presented to area children in need. For more information or to volunteer, contact Marie Crowley at mcrowley@rollacity.org or visit rollamoparks.recdesk.com/community/program. • Rolla Menards is participating in a Toy Drive until Dec. 22. Drop off toys in collection boxes at the main checkout registers. Information: 4582145. • The Worldwide Walkouts to protest the vaccine mandates will be Saturdays from 1-2:30 p.m. in Rolla along Highway 63 near Kingshighway Street. Information: Cindy Jones 743-6072. • Rolla Lions Club Park will be transformed once again for the 21st Christmas in the Park. This event will take place until Dec. 18. The

lights will be on display from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. This year’s special guests will include Frosty, Santa, and the Grinch. This event is free, but donations are graciously accepted. Information: https://files.constantcontact.com/5c1919f3601/707f5923-a00b4046-b261-cffb413cdd91.pdf. • Phelps Health hosts a Stroke Survivors Support Group on the first Tuesday of each month from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Phelps Health Delbert Day Cancer Institute (Conference Room B), 1060 West 10th Street in Rolla, MO. Spouses and caregivers are welcome to attend and learn about the following topics: causes of stroke, stroke rehabilitation, medications, nutrition and home exercise programs, coping with stress, current treatment trends and more. Professional guest speakers will lead sessions each month. Refreshments will be available at each meeting. Please contact Julie Riggs at 458-3034 for more information and to RSVP. • Phelps Health hosts a Parkinson’s and Caregivers Support Group on the third Tuesday of each month from 2:30-4:00 PM at the Phelps Health Delbert Day Cancer Institute (Conference Room B), 1060 West 10th Street in Rolla, MO. Are you or a loved one struggling with Parkinson’s disease? Come join us to receive mutual support and learn about topics, such as living with Parkinson’s, Parkinson’s rehabilitation, medications, exercise and healthy diets, coping with stress, current treatment trends and more. Professional guest speakers will lead sessions each month. Refreshments will be available at each meeting. Please contact Julie Riggs at 458-3034 for more information and to RSVP.

COMMUNITY SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Sponsored By

“Positively Different”

1012 Forum Drive • Rolla, MO 65401 573.308.3113 • www.riverwaysfcu.org PHELPS HEALTH WILL OFFER A

SAFE SITTER CLASS

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 28 | 8:30 A.M. TO 3 P.M. Phelps Health Human Resources Classrooms, located near the North Entrance of the hospital, 1000 West 10th Street, Rolla. Their is a fee, and lunch will be provided. Pre-registration is required. The class size is limited to 10 and masks are required. Information: call 458-7691 or email jchapman@phelpshealth.org.

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Insider ROLLA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CHRISTMAS PARADE

Photo by Lori Lunceford The theme for the Christmas paPhoto by Lori Lunceford Ward 2 City Council member Meghan Johnson gives candy to children during the annual Rolla Area rade was Ugly Christmas Sweater, and Amy Pendleton, of Phelps Chamber of Commerce parade held in downtown Rolla Saturday. County Bank, found a good one.

COVID-19 vaccination benefits all

It may be hard to believe that, after almost two years, COVID-19 is still a major issue in the U.S. as well as around the world. It continues to affect our health and healthcare systems, disrupting our daily lives. The emergence of new variants, like omicron, can add even more uncertainty over when we’ll be able to return to more normal routines. Yet, it’s important to remember that we’ve made a lot of progress over the past two years, even if it may not always feel that way. And earlier this fall, we passed another key milestone in our efforts to combat the coronavirus. Children as young as 5 years old can now get a COVID-19 vaccine. And that is fantastic news. “Vaccination is one of the best tools we have for keeping kids and families safe and healthy,” said Dr. Rachel Orscheln, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. About 7 million children in the U.S. have tested positive for the novel coronavirus since the pandemic began, and even though serious cases are rare, they do happen. More than 8,000 children aged five to 11 in the U.S. have been hospitalized with COVID-19, and some children have died. On top of reducing the chances that kids will get infected and become ill, vaccination helps prevent the spread of this infection to family members and caregivers, some of whom may be vulnerable to serious disease, Orscheln said. Vaccination also helps keep kids in the classroom by cutting down on infections in fellow students, teachers, staff members, and others. The vaccine prevents more than 90% of COVID19 cases in children ages 5 and up. And, as with vaccines for older teens and adults, the most common side effects are usually mild, including arm pain from the injection, fatigue, headache, chills, and fever. These happen more often after the second shot and generally last just a day or two. Some rare, more serious side effects are possible, and the safety of the vaccine in children continues to be monitored. But the current evidence shows it is overall safe and effective. Not vaccinating chil-

Dr. Graham Colditz For Your Health dren also has risks by increasing their chances of getting infected and becoming ill – something parents should consider when weighing decisions about vaccination, Orscheln continued, “By any measure available, the risk of developing infection with the novel coronavirus substantially outweighs any risk that may be associated with vaccination.” Pediatricians, primary care doctors, and other trusted healthcare professionals are great resources for parents looking to get more information about the COVID-19 vaccine for children. And children can get vaccinated in many different locations, from doctor’s offices to pharmacies to county health departments. By mid-November in the U.S., about 10 percent of children aged five to 11 received a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. As the number of vaccinated children increases, adding to the overall vaccination tally, we increase our chances of further limiting the spread of the virus. And that can be particularly important

this time of year, as we gather with family and friends for the holidays and generally take part in more indoor activities where the risk of infection is higher. Many children want to do their part to stop the spread of the coronavirus, protecting their families and getting back to more normal school and activity schedules, Orscheln concluded. “Vaccination is a critical strategy for accomplishing these important goals,” she said. And those would be welcome gifts as we head into winter and a new year. It’s your health – and your family’s health. Take control. Dr. Graham A. Colditz, associate director of prevention and control at Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is an internationally recognized leader in cancer prevention, and the creator of the free prevention tool, YourDiseaseRisk.com. The Phelps Health Delbert Day Cancer Institute is part of the Siteman Cancer Network. Dr. Graham A. Colditz, associate director of prevention and control at Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, is an internationally recognized leader in cancer prevention. Phelps Health and the Delbert Day Cancer Institute (DDCI) are part of the Siteman Cancer Network.

Photo by Lori Lunceford Missouri S&T’s Mindy Limback candy canes in hand, was all smiles during Saturday’s parade.

Tales from

Misbysouri Ross Malone

December 8, 1881 – A railroad bridge across the Missouri at St. Charles collapsed for the third time! Thirty-one freight cars plunged into the river. It was also proving to be a hazard for steamboats. December 9, 1901 – The Henpecked Husbands’ Association was becoming popular in Ferguson. Any man in attendance could be fined or expelled if he should accidentally praise his wife. December 10, 1877 – Several families in Gasconade County built a dam

across Frain Creek. This created a shallow settling pool which was expected to freeze and supply ice for the coming summer. December 11, 1999 – Northwest Missouri State University won the National Championship game for Division II football. They were also the National champs in the previous year. December 12, 1903 – The Cardinals traded “Three Fingers Brown” to the Cubs thinking that his handicap would keep him from a full career. He went

on to win 230 more games for the Cubs and lead them to four league championships. December 13, 1921 – A photographer in Hermann was advertising that he had “a contrivance called the flashlight,” which would allow him to take photographs even at night. December 14, 2011 – On this day the announcement was made that, with more than 50 schools and well over 24,000 students, the Springfield School District was now the largest in the state. For information about Ross Malone’s Missouri Books, visit www.RossMalone.com.

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 24 & FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31

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Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Insider

Keeping others in mind while gifting this Christmas If you’ve been a Momma D follower for a while you may recognize this post from previous years about this same time. Yes, it’s a repeat, but that’s because this is something worth repeating. Our children’s hearts are tender and impressionable and we need to do anything and everything we can to guard and protect them from being injured. But we also shouldn’t have to feel like we’re flying solo, because we’re not. I’m here for you! And so are many of your parentpeers. As parents we need to be mindful of the hearts of all children. So, with that being said, please keep reading and

please take these words to heart. A few years ago I read something that broke my heart. It was an open letter from a mom to all the other moms ‘out there’. The woman was asking moms across the country to please have Santa give their children ordinary gifts instead of expensive, extravagant items like phones, computers, gaming devices, designer clothes, and the latest and greatest toys. She wasn’t asking parents not to give their children these items. She just asked that if they did, that the kids would know these gifts came from them instead of Santa.

because

Momma D says. Why? Because she never wanted to be put in the position of having to answer her six-year-old daughter’s question again—“Why does Santa Claus like other kids more than he does me?” This loving mother explained that she and her husband worked hard to provide for their two children, but their paychecks barely paid for the necessities in life like rent, food, utilities, clothes,

and vehicle expenses. In other words, there wasn’t much left for Christmas. “We couldn’t afford the things other kids in their classes at school got,” she said. “But when my daughter heard other kids talking about what they got, she was hurt and confused. Not because she didn’t get those things, but because she viewed the obvious differences as a sign that she wasn’t good enough in

so far this season. MENS 700 SERIES – Mike Clutts 279(739); John Stevens 256(739); Joshua Elliott 279(738); Nate Millburg 247(726); Mike Garbo 277(716); Donald Grouns 268(716), 237(706); Cody Wilson 240(715); Tim Martin 287(708); Clint Dobry 258(705); Nathan Neagles 245(701) The men have bowled 66 700 series so far this season. PEEWEE – Nova Reed 55(55); Stetson Cahill 62(62) BANTAM-PREP – Charlotte Sands 94(181); Aliyah Anderson 94(165); Clark Millburg 120(224); Connor Bolin 123(212); Hunter Sharp 110(184); Stetson Reed 92(170); Alex Chase 76(150) JUNIOR-MAJOR – Acadia Grouns 191(536); Shirley Sekscinski 182(512); Arianna Newkirk 183(481); Caroline Sands 181(479);

Samantha Schatz 163(458); Braxtyn Crider 183(505) DOGHOUSE – Ashley Teague 196(529); Laura Chounard 189(507); Tyler Parrent 213(596); Rhett Akley 206(588); James Enlow 247(576); Josh Copeland 233(575); Daniel Kohensky 209(574); James Reck 235(573); Shannon Chounard 212(568); Linda Shockley 183(512); Jesse Chounard 229(647); Chuck Enlow 220(606); George Arnold 224(589) SPECIAL RECOGNITION – James Enlow’s 247 game was 101 pins over average while his 226 game was 76 pins over. Time Martin’s 287 game was 86 pins over average. MERCHANT – Nicole Stone 214(515); David Rosenburg 258(673); Lee Briscoe 233(663); David Wilson 239(658); Glen Sapaugh, III 256(657); Mike Fulbright

Santa’s eyes to merit such gifts—that she had done something bad or wrong to cause him not to bring her the same type of gifts some of her friends received.” She went on to say that she didn’t want people feeling sorry for them and that she wasn’t asking for a hand-out. She just wanted to remind people that since we tell our kids that Santa loves all boys and girls and that he brings gifts to them because of this love, we need to make Santa an ‘equal opportunity gift-giver’. So, as you get ready to head out to grab up all those great deals and try

to fulfil the wishes of everyone on your gift list, remember that it really isn’t the cost or extravagance of the gift, but the fact that you thought of giving anything at all. Besides, if you think about it, Santa can’t possibly afford all those things, so…. Love, Momma DFormer Rolla resident Darla Noble is an author and public speaker. When not writing, she enjoys spending time with the love of her life, John, her children and grandchildren, reading, gardening, and spending time in the sun. For more information visit her at dnoblewrites.weebly.com

227(642); Kevin Roberts 236(642); Glen Sapaugh, Jr 228(620); Rodney Thompson 222(617); Brandon Brandel 237(595); Pete Grenier 216(592); George Stone 224(580); Gregory Curtis 235(570); Jake Kircher 214(560); Marie Zeigenbein 209(577); Jessica Zahnle 200(568); Garrett Roberts 263(687); Jason Durbin 236(669); Trevor Kircher 224(661); Justin Isaacson 233(641); Terry Miles 258(637); Keith Beasley 246(617); David A McClure 234(617); Harold Fite 214(601); Wayne Callaway 235(597); Robert Briggs 222(591) SPECIAL RECOGNITION – Zak Olivo bowled a 235 game which was 86 pins over average. Roger Rosenburg’s 256 game was 89 pins over average. BOSS N SLAVE – Shelley Caton 180(503); Mike Quattrock 225(619); Bob L Kinder 229(609); Robert Yotter 255(585); Brad Kinder

215(572); Byron Click 227(598) SPECIAL RECOGNITION – Donald Grouns bowled a 252 game which was 78 pins over average. Kim Lane bowled a 198 game which was 84 pins over average. Robert Yotter’s 255 game was 87 pins over average. EARLY BIRD – Margaret Biolsi 190(477) QUEENS & KINGS – Vickie Flegel 237(596); Alec Reven 168(479); John Harrison 219(623) BUSINESS – Karen Thomas 204(514); Deon Estrada 279(675); Kris Newkirk 248(669); Michael Cape 240(654); Leonard Turnbough 235(628); Kevin Warren 222(619); Gene Gill 209(613); Kenny Baldwin 222(599); Ken Arthur 216(598); Jason Carroll 223(574); Chuck Satterfield 222(562) You can email Jim Reck at bowlmeov@fidmail.com

RECREATION

11/14/2021 to 11/27/2021 CONVERTED SPLITS – Contessa Isacson 6-7-10; Linda Shockley 9-10; Judy Davis 3-6-7-10, 2-7; Glenda Duncan 2-7; Linda Cochran 5-10; Shannon Grouns 510; Candace Gann 3-4-7; Mindy Millburg 2-7; Ken Burch 5-7; Scott Rosenow 2-4-5-10; Jim Reck 4-5-7; Justin Windle 5-7 ROLLA SENIORS – Mindy Cullen 173(489); Bill Hood 189(545); Matt Sanders 202(518); Steve Hatcher 180(495); Rowe Duncan 168(482); Dave Douglas 177(479); Dewey Ness 172(474); Herman Martin 168(471); Jerry Gregory 179(470); Stan McElfresh 156(456); Ken Usher 188(455); Jan Weisel 194(526); Mike Duncan 258(673); Ken Burch

Jim Reck Bowl Me Over 214(581); David Pierce 216(579); Jerry Wells 208(578); Roy Conklin 180(488); Dennis Henderson 181(468) SPECIAL RECOGNITION – Jesse Chounard’s 246 game was 76 pins over average. LADIES 600 SERIES – Becky Gill 239(686); Aleatha Fite 248(606) The ladies have bowled 23 600 series

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Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Insider

The history of live Christmas trees St. James Parks By Sarah Havens Field Specialist in Natural Resources MU Extension Every year approximately 25-30 million real Christmas trees are sold to consumers in the United States. At this time about 350 million Christmas trees are growing on farms across the U.S. The most common species of trees that are used for Christmas trees are Scotch Pine, Balsam Fir, Norway Spruce, White Fir, Colorado Blue Spruce, White Pine, Fraser Fir, Canaan Fir, Noble Fir and Douglas Fir. In Missouri, Scotch Pine is our most popular Christmas tree species that we grow. Trees are commonly cut and then displayed. Some nurseries have started to offer living Christmas trees that are in a pot or burlap and can be planted following the holidays. The first written record of a decorated Christmas tree is from Riga, Latvia in 1510. In the early 1800’s the Christmas tree was introduced in the US by German settlers and grew from table top sized trees to floor-to-ceiling as we see today. Christmas tree were first sold commercially starting in 1851 in the United States and the first Christmas tree at the White House was 1853. Franklin Pierce is credited with bringing the first Christmas tree to the

White House. The first artificial Christmas trees were sold at Sears, Roebuck and Company in 1883. In 1901 the first Christmas tree plantation was started by W.V. McGalliard in New Jersey. He planted 25,000 Norway Spruce. How to Care for Your Freshly Cut Farm-Grown Christmas Tree • Displaying trees in water in a traditional reservoir type stand is the most effective way to maintain the freshness of your tree and minimize needle loss. • You want to use a stand with a large enough reservoir to support the size tree you select. As a general rule, your stand should hold 1 quart of water for every inch of stem diameter. • Even if you harvest your own tree at a farm, you will need to cut about ½ inch disk of wood from the bottom of the tree’s trunk before putting the tree in your stand with water. Just like cut flowers, the tree will form a seal after being cut and will not take up water. • Check your stand daily and do not let the water level go below the base of the tree. Some stands will still have water but the base of the tree will be above it. • Keep trees away from major sources of heat (fireplaces, heaters, heat vents,

direct sunlight). Lowering the room temperature will also slow the drying process and lower the amount of water the tree uses each day. • Use low heat lights to decorate the tree. Make sure to inspect lights before placing on the Christmas tree. • Always turn off tree lights before going to bed or leaving the house. How to Care for Your Living Christmas Tree (pot or burlap) • Consider the species before buying. Some species may not be well adapted for your area. • Keep in mind that living trees are very heavy! A sixfoot balled and burlapped tree will weigh as much as much as 250 pounds! • When the tree is stored outside of the house it should be kept in an unheated, sheltered areas such as a garage or porch. Do not expose the tree to freezing temperatures at any time. • Make sure to water the root ball regularly. Do not overwater. • Live trees should be decorated with care. Lights that are used should not put off any heat. • Do not move the tree directly from a warm house out into freezing temperatures. Move to a sheltered outdoor area for a few days so the tree can adjust to the different temperatures. • If the ground in un-

frozen, the tree may be planted. • Do not remove the burlap and strapping unless it is plastic. This keep the root ball solid and secure. In the case of plastic, remove the plastic but take care to retain the original soil around the roots. Recycling Live Christmas Trees After Christmas, many communities will offer recycling programs where trees are taken and mulched to be used as groundcover. Contact your city hall or parks department to ask. In some parts of Missouri, the Missouri Department of Conservation will allow citizens to bring trees to ponds or lakes and they will put in for fish habitat. If you have your own pond, consider putting your tree in it. Christmas trees can also be placed outside to be used as wildlife cover or placed near bird feeders as a nesting location.

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offers Little Cheerleaders Program St. James Parks & Recreation Does your little one like to cheer? Or do they want to learn to cheer? The St. James Parks & Recreation Department will be offering Little Cheerleaders starting Wednesday, Jan. 5. St. James High School cheerleaders will teach girls and boys how to cheer like champs. Participants will learn how to cheer, chant, and kick. And they will then be able to show off what they learned by performing during half time of the girls’ varsity basket-

ball game on Feb. 14. Little Cheerleaders is a six-week program designed for boys and girls ages 610. The enrollment fee is $30, which includes a set of pom poms and a t-shirt. There is a class limit of 20, so be sure to register soon. Register on-line at https://stjparks.recdesk.c om/Community/Program or stop by the Parks & Recreation office at 1204 Nelson Hart Drive. For more information contact Park Director Kristy Rich at (573) 265-6969 or krich@stjamesmo.org.

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Thursday, December 9, 2021

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Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Insider FOR BABY BOOMERS AND BEYOND

Jackson announced as November Senior Companion of the Month Senior Companions Dorothy Jackson of Rolla was named Senior Companion of the Month for November. As a Senior Companion, Jackson visits area residents reading to them, giving companionship assisting with light cooking and provides transportation. “It is a pleasure helping others” she said. “Giving someone needed care and support is what I do.” Jackson also volunteers

for the HOPE. Inc. Outreach in Rolla. Jackson grew up in Gary, Indiana, with four brothers and one sister. After high school, she worked for St. Margaret’s Hospital in Hammond, Indiana, as a surgery technician, retiring in 2000. As Senior Companion of the Month, Jackson received a floral arrangement donated from Blossom Basket Florist and a $10 gift card from Sinks Pharmacy. The Senior Companion

Program is sponsored by the Phelps County Commission, funded by a grant from AmeriCorps Seniors as well as in-kind and cash donations from local businesses. If you know a Phelps County resident who might benefit from the services of a Senior Companion, or someone who is 55 years and older who Photo courtesy of would like to become a Senior Companions Senior Companion, call (573) 458-6180 for further Dorothy Jackson of Rolla was named Senior Companion of the information. Month for November.

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Photo courtesy of St. James Caring Center The St. James Caring Center’s next Commodity Day is Dec. 16.

Prayers answered on Commodity Day St. James Caring Center The St. James Caring Center said prayers were answered on Commodity Day by Michelle Auxier for delivering food and $40 from the Intercounty Electric Aux-

iliary to purchase food. A Senior Center volunteer helped unload items for restocking the food pantry warehouse. To support the St. James Caring Center Commodity Day distribution program, drop off non-perishable food

items or a monetary donation at 113 W. Eldon in St. James. The next Commodity Day is Dec. 16 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. To pre-register, contact the Caring Center office at (573) 265-2047. You must live within the St.

James School District, provide two forms of ID and a piece of recent mail proving residency. For more information, contact Marilyn at (573) 265-2047. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

WHAT YOU Y VAL A UE THRIVES T HER RE

Where good neighboring comes naturally. Whether it’s a cup of sugar or a couple of helping hands, neighbors that both live and work at Rolla Presbyterian Manor are always here to support one another. Come visit us and discover – the way you want to live.

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Product not available in all states. Includes the Participating (in GA: Designated) Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN). Rider kinds: B438, B439 (GA: B439B). 6208-0721

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Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Insider VOICES OF GOVERNMENT

Fighting for the unborn, one bill at a time in congress Office of Cong. Jason Smith

As someone who is strongly pro-life, I was encouraged by the Supreme Court’s oral arguments this week on Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, a case challenging Mississippi’s 2018 abortion law that bans the option to end a life in the womb after the 15th week of pregnancy. At stake in this case is whether individual states should be able to decide for themselves whether restrictions on terminating a pregnancy are in line with the values of the residents of that state. Our own state of Missouri enacted a law in 2019 that would provide even more robust protections for the unborn than

Jason Smith Capitol Report the Mississippi law, so this will undoubtedly be a consequential case - one that will define our nation and our state for years to come. Ever since the Supreme Court legalized abortion in our country, more than 60 million innocent lives have been lost – more than the entire population of the state of California. In fact, the United

States is one of just 7 nations – including China and North Korea – that allows for abortion on demand beyond the point that babies can feel pain. Meanwhile, 47 out of 50 European nations limit abortion at 15 weeks or earlier. At this stage, brain and nerve connections continue to form and the heart is fully developed. Unborn children at this stage can taste, make facial expressions, yawn, hiccup, and swallow. This issue speaks to the character of our nation. America should be a nation that values all innocent life. The unborn do not have a voice – they need their representatives and the courts of justice to speak for and protect them. And across the country this week I

saw how Americans are banding together in support of life, giving a voice to the voiceless. Seeing the passion these advocates for life bring to this fight inspires me to continue defending life and protecting hardworking Missourians’ values. That’s why I am proud to have authored the No Abortion Bonds Act, a bill that would close a loophole that allows pro-abortion organizations to utilize tax-exempt bonds to finance abortion provider offices and clinics. This is undoubtedly an exploitation of taxpayer dollars in support of abortion. Further, I am fighting against Washington Democrats reckless tax-andspending Build Back Better Act, which does not retain Hyde Amendment

protections that prevent U.S. taxpayer funding from being spent on abortion services. Up until the Biden administration, Hyde protections enjoyed bipartisan support because of the simple principle that taxpayers who are morally opposed to killing an unborn child shouldn’t be forced to subsidize the practice with their tax dollars. I am also a coauthor of an incredibly important bill, the Born Alive Abortion Survivor Protection Act, which would protect babies who survive an abortion procedure by ensuring that the baby receives immediate medical care and is admitted to a hospital. This bill will save the lives of defenseless infants who cannot defend themselves. I often reflect on the

words of Gianna Jessen, a pro-life advocate, who I met in Cuba, was herself marked for death but miraculously survived her planned abortion. She said, “God has a way of making the most miserable things beautiful.” Gianna’s life has been filled with uphill battles and complications from the attempted abortion, but she has courageously chosen to dedicate herself to fighting for the unborn and their right to life. Supreme Court decisions typically do not come quickly, so we will now await the outcome, most likely until sometime next year. In the meantime, I will be praying for the right decision and will be steadfastly working in Congress to protect the unborn.

MRPC board learns about brownfield clean-ups MRPC At its Nov. 18 meeting, the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) board learned about the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) Brownfields Voluntary Clean-up Program from Jacob Rohter (outreach coordinator). The program offers site-specific assessments on brownfield properties. The term brownfield refers to a piece of property, with or without structures, where the redevelopment or reuse could be complicated by the presence, the potential presence, or the perceived presence of hazardous substances. The goal of the Brownfield Assessment Program is to clarify the history and environmental conditions of a property so that reuse and redevelopment decisions can be made. “These assessments are taking out the unknowns,”

Rohter said. “It’s separating the former site uses from the possibilities of future site uses.” These environmental assessments determine if contamination is present and its extent. Additionally, it provides answers to potential cost concerning clean-ups associated with brownfield properties. Redevelopment of brownfields benefits the environment, the community, and industry by preserving undeveloped greenspace, cleaning up contaminated properties, returning properties to tax rolls, creating employment opportunities, and rejuvenating dilapidated areas. Cities, counties, quasigovernmental, or nonprofits are eligible to apply for a brownfield assessment, but there must be signed consent from the property own-

er for MDNR to access the space. These assessments are at no cost to the applicants and are completely voluntary. For more information or an application for a brownfield assessment, visit missouribrownfields.com. In other business, the MRPC board: • Appointed David Selzer, executive director of the Phelps Health Foundation, as the at-large board member representing health care. The external relations committee was presented with three possible candidates and chose to recommend Selzer to the full board, where his nomination was approved. • Received an update that the Meramec Regional Community Foundation Community Grant Program is now open. The program

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provides $250-$500 grants to community projects needing extra funds. The application can be found at https://www.meramecregion.org/career-and-business-opportunities/grantopportunities/ • Welcomed Jake Harlan to the MRPC board as the for-profit representative for Phelps County. He replaces Jeff Medows. • Learned of four positions currently open at MRPC. MRPC is in the process of hiring three community development spe-

cialists and a bookkeeper. Those interested in applying can find the job descriptions at https://www.meramecregion.org/career-and-business-opportunities/jobs/. Formed in 1969, MRPC is a voluntary council of governments serving Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski, and Washington counties and their respective cities. Steve Vogt, representing the city of Belle, serves as chairman of the board. A professional staff

of 36 offers technical assistance and services, such as grant preparation and administration, housing assistance, transportation planning, environmental planning, ordinance codification, business loans and other services to member communities. To keep up with the latest MRPC news and events, visit the MRPC website at www.meramecregion.org or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/meramecregion/.

NOTICE TO ALL US CITIZENS!

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Thursday, December 9, 2021

SCRVG, volunteers build ramp for local veteran SCRVG

The South Central Regional Veterans Group (SCRVG) was contacted to help repair a local veteran’s wheelchair ramp. “We put out the call for help and we were not disappointed,” stated the SCRVG press release. The Carpenters Union Local 2298 volunteered to do the work and the Korean War Veterans Association volunteered to pay for the materials. The veteran who needed the ramp is Michael Dowdy. “We can thank Mr. Dowdy for the Veterans Memorial Park,” stated the

release. “He is the individual who wrote the letter to the editor asking why Rolla did not have a Veterans Park, and the rest is history. The carpenters did an outstanding job and Michael is much appreciative.” All the work was completed in just one day. Now after their hard work, Michael can feel safe using his ramp. “Thank you to the Carpenters Union Local 2298 and the Korean War Veterans Association,” stated the release. “It is great when our community can come together to help someone in need.”

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Insider

Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) received a 2021 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for the Meramec Region Rural Opioid Initiatives. To address the growing problem of opioid use disorder, MRPC secured grants from the Health Resources and Services Administration, the Department of Justice, and AmerisourceBergen Foundation to provide education, awareness, and prevention strategies within MRPC’s eight-county region. MRPC does this through two separate consortiums – the Meramec Region Rural Opioid Program (MRROP) and the Opioid Affected

Youth Initiative (OAYI). The Meramec Region’s Rural Opioid Initiative is directly targeting opioid/substance use through prevention education, expanding the knowledge of community and treatment resources, and changing the region’s social stigma of opioid addiction. To this end, MRPC hosted a workshop for employers that focused on opioids in the workplace and hiring individuals in recovery. MRPC also completed a community needs assessments as well as a study on Naloxone, implemented the Seeking Safety Program in county jails and with youth in the region, and held county-level community conversations bringing youth and stakeholders within the community together. In addition

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Photo courtesy of SCRVG Pictured from left to right: Michael Dowdy; Lee Hatton and Shawn Surdam, carpenter apprentices; and supervised but not pictured by Journeyman Carpenter Chad Rosemann with the Carpenters Union Local 2298.

to these expansive efforts, the group worked with Prevention Consultants of Missouri to implement Too Good for Drugs in area schools, continued the Rehabilitation through Innovations with Dr. Sean Siebert of Invent Yourself, LLC in county jails, hosted awareness walks in several communities in the region, and have published video testimonials to highlight Stories from Our Region – The Opioid Epidemic. NADO is a Washington, DC-based membership association of regional development organizations that promote programs and policies that strengthen local governments, communities, and economies through regional cooperation, program delivery, and comprehensive strategies. The association’s Impact Awards program recognizes regional development organizations and their partners for improving the economic and community competitiveness of our nation’s regions and local communities. Award-winning projects were recognized during

NADO’s 2021 Annual Training Conference, held in Portland, OR, on Oct. 16-19. The 2021 class of award recipients consists of 102 projects from 70 organizations spanning 24 states. These projects are presented in an interactive “Story Map,” developed by NADO that includes project summaries, partners, and images. The Story Map is available online at: https://www.nado.org/2021_ impactawards/. The NADO Impact Awards are presented in honor of the late Aliceann Wohlbruck who was NADO’s first executive director and served 24 years as a tireless champion for regional approaches to economic development in rural communities. For more information about the Meramec Region Rural Opioid Initiatives, contact MRROP project lead Samantha Sherman and OAYI project lead Jane Johannsen at 265-2993 or via email at ssherman@meramecregion.org or jjohannsen@meramecregion.org, respectively.

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siblings or babysitting. The instructor-led class is filled with fun games and role-playing exercises. Students even get to use manikins to practice rescue skills. The class fee is $65, and lunch will be provided. Preregistration is required. The class size is limited to 10 and masks are required. For more information, call (573) 458-7691 or email jchapman@phelpshealth.org.

Warmer temperatures ideal for litter pickup MoDot Press Release As the unseasonably warm temperatures continue, Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is looking for help removing litter from the state’s roadways. “We’ve completed the last of our mowing for 2021 and this has the unfortunate effect of making litter more visible along Missouri roads,” said Natalie Roark, state highway maintenance director. “While the weather continues to cooperate, we’re hoping to encourage people to help out by cleaning their section of adopted roadway—before the winter snows set in.” Since 1987, Missouri’s Adopt-A-Highway program involved volunteers across the state working together to clean up Missouri. Currently, more than 5,300 groups and 50,000 volunteers in the program are focused on making Missouri’s roadsides cleaner and more attractive for our residents and visitors. More than 6,400 miles of roadway have been adopted. Last year, MoDOT spent $6.4 million to remove litter

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Phelps Health will offer a Safe Sitter class from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 28, at the Phelps Health Human Resources Classrooms, located near the North Entrance of the hospital, 1000 West 10th St., Rolla. This class is designed to prepare students in grades six through eight to be safe when they are home alone, watching younger

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from more than 385,000 acres of roadsides along 34,000 state highway miles. Adopters perform about $1 million a year in litter cleanup and beautification efforts. In addition to volunteers and staff, MoDOT employs incarcerated crews throughout the state. Every area kept free of litter by these crews and adopters allows MoDOT to devote resources to other muchneeded tasks. The best way to prevent litter on Missouri roads is to not create it in the first place. “It all starts with you,” Roark said. “Remember, if you don’t throw it out, we don’t have to pick it up. Every effort by the public to eliminate or clean up litter helps offset our trash removal costs and allows the department to put more money back into maintaining Missouri’s roads and bridges.” Here are some ways you can help: • Don’t litter. Keep a bag for trash in your car or truck and wait to dispose of it properly • Secure the load. Make sure nothing blows out or off of your vehicle into the roadway. In addition to creating litter, unsecured loads can be a safety hazard to the vehicles behind you. For more information about how to join the Missouri Adopt-A-Highway program, go to MoDOT.org/adopt-highway.

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Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Insider

BACKYARD BIRDER

Some gift ideas for the Backyard Birder in your life By Mike Doyen Thanksgiving is in the books and now everyone is preparing for the holiday season and the New Year. This is also the time of year we begin to wonder about gifts. What will I buy for Uncle Herb and Aunt Bertha? Even more difficult, what shall I buy for my grandparents? I know they say “don’t buy me anything” but that does not work for us. Gifts are always a challenge, but there are gifts that are perfect, and better yet, that keep on giving. Whatever your favorite birds are there are many choices and a good variety of feeders and bird seed. The three local stores with the largest variety of feeders and seed are The Family Center on Highway 72, Dickey Bub and Menards. Personally, I am a huge fan of the squirrel resistant feeder. They work! And over the life of the feeder that’s a big savings. I have some metal squirrel-proof

feeders that I have been using for over 20 years. All I do is keep them full of black oil sunflower seed. I also have a good number of platform feeders with a baffle. The baffle is worth the extra cost for it keeps squirrels off the feeder. The platform feeder is a showcase for winter birds as multiple species, like the cardinal, Carolina wren, chickadee, titmouse, gold finch and others will all be sitting on the edge, scratching and eating. This is a good thing for the ground-feeding birds like sparrows and doves who will be underneath cleaning up. There are also a number of hanging feeders to choose from. I am especially partial to the metal base-screen feeders. Either the collapsible or the cylinder feeders are a good value. If you hang them from a tree limb, be sure to put a baffle above the feeder so squirrels, raccoons and other varmints can’t eat all your food or worse -

tear up your feeder. Baffles work and they are relatively inexpensive. I highly recommend them when you attach feeders to tree limbs or shepherd hooks. Wood and plastic feeders have one inherent problem. Squirrels and other critters can rip them apart if they are not protected with a baffle. Free hanging feeders of any kind are a target for critters, but plastic and wood are more vulnerable to damage. Another thing to remember is that squirrels can jump over six feet. Placement of your feeders is critical to keep those rascals from eating all your seed or worse, destroying your feeders. When it comes to seed, there are many choices. Be careful, and don’t just pick up a bag of cheap seed. Most of it is foreign material and filler that most birds won’t eat. Word of caution, if the bag has a lot of small red seeds (red milo) leave it on the shelf.

• The overall best seed is the black-oil sunflower seed, often called the “hamburger” of bird seed, because everyone eats it. The shell is easy to open and the seed is high in protein. It’s all we feed our backyard birds. • Next on the list is a bag of “good mixed seed.” This will have a large amount of black-oil sunflower seed with some cracked corn, white proso millet, safflower and, if lucky, some peanut hearts. Many birders will purchase bulk seeds and mix their own. • Suet. You can make your own or buy multiple varieties at your local store. It’s a high-fat food and birds will dig right in; especially woodpeckers. • De-shelled, dry roasted and unsalted peanuts. Woodpeckers, jays, Nuthatches, chickadees and titmice will gobble them down. • Niger or thistle seed. This can be expensive but your goldfinches, house finches, purple finches and pine siskin will love you for it. • Peanut Butter Log. Such a simple concept but it will attract most species of backyard birds. Crunchy peanut butter only. • Fruit. Grapes, sliced and diced citrus, apples or banana slices will attract the birds. Fruit is a treat for winter birds. If you

want to feed raisins, please dice and soak in warm water to soften them up. • Safflower and cracked corn are both good. Cracked corn is great on the ground. Safflower is a feeder seed. • There are many other choices. Some are okay; some are worthless, so buyer beware. There is nothing that attracts winter birds more than water. Just like us, they need to drink and bathe or preen. Many of us have thermostatically controlled water vessels. They are not that expensive and every species of bird will flock to your water on a cold freezing day. They are worth the investment. If you cannot find the feeder or water vessel you are looking for; go online. There are many companies out there that have good inventories and selections. Another gift idea is a field guide. You can use your cell phone, but a field guide of eastern birds will prove the perfect gift for bird identification. They are not expensive and they are easy to follow and read. Please do not purchase a field guide of North American birds, you will only add to the confusion. If you have a backyard birder in your family then I recommend you look at a pair of binoculars. Binoculars come in all sizes and

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price ranges. And when they look through a decent pair of binoculars at a bird for the first time, you will hear the excitement from across the street. Most companies have a 30-day return policy and very good customer service if you need help or advice. My wife and I have been birding for decades and we both carry 8X42 binoculars, as do most of our birder friends. Do not purchase anything stronger than the 10X50 binocular; the distortion becomes so great that you cannot accurately identify the bird. I would recommend a pair of 8X42 or 8X45 strength in the $150 to $250 price range for starter binoculars. Note: if you are buying online, keep a keen eye open for deals. You can sometime find a $200 pair for $99. Now that’s a gift. Nature photography is also a fast-growing activity. Some of these new cameras work magic and are easy to use. Most likely there is also a photo club close by, which is a great place to look at gear to talk to other photographers. Again, I recommend calling the customer service people and get details before you purchase. They are very helpful and know their products. The outdoors is again becoming the place to be for many people. They enjoy walking, hiking, camping, birding, wildflowers, tree identification, photography and other activities. Spending a couple of hours in nature just feels good. LEAVE THE LEAVES. Please give butterflies, moths, lightening bugs, native bees and other pollinators a break. Oak leaves especially are critical to the survival of over 535 species of pollinators. Oak tree leaves is where the adults deposit their eggs. As the leaf falls with the eggs attached, they will lay on the ground. As the weather warms the eggs will produce the caterpillars that in spring will become butterflies, moths, lightning bugs, native bees and other pollinators. As individuals we need to do our part. All you need to do is just leave the leaves until spring; especially under your oak trees. Now’s the time to stop asking where have all the butterflies and fireflies gone and start doing your part to bring them back. It really is that simple. It soon will be winter and things don’t change much in the cold months ahead. So, like the birds, my wife and I will be migrating south for the winter season. Also like the birds, we will return this spring. And like the birds of spring, I will be chipping away with new and hopefully educational articles about our backyard birds. Here’s wishing you and yours Happy Holidays and a New Year filled with good health, happiness and lot of backyard birds.

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Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Faith

10B

CHURCH OF THE WEEK

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Lead Pastor, Rolla First Assembly of God pivot point in the story of my life. Knowing someone loved me despite all that I had done, that someone was proud of me despite all my mistakes, and that someone saw potential in me gave me the strength I needed to alter the trajectory of my life. Encouragement is powerful. Greater than perhaps any other influence, encouraging words have the capacity to launch someone toward their greatest potential. In the same way, negative and

the gifts, talents and abilities God intrinsically implanted within them. Fourteen years ago, my sister made a choice to write a short letter to her rebellious little brother. She had no way of knowing that letter would be the catalyst for me turning back to God and eventually moving into full-time pastoral ministry. Her words continue to encourage me all these years later. I still have that letter. I keep it in the Bible I preach from each week. It stands as a constant reminder of the power of encouragement and challenges me to use my words wisely. You, too, have the power to change a life. Will you use your words to encourage those around you to be their best? Or will you use your words to cut them down and discourage them from growing and maturing? Through your words, you can be the source of life or of death. The choice is yours.

At Redeemer Lutheran Church Sunday, Dec. 12, the Rev. Dr. Nathan Kuhlman will continue the Advent season “Waiting Room” series with the message “Wait With Rejoicing,” using Luke 1:39-45 as his text. “The season of Advent is characterized by waiting—waiting upon the Lord for his presence to be revealed to us on Christmas,” the church announced. “In this series for Advent, we look back in Scripture at those who waited upon the Lord for His promises to come to pass through the Christ Child. “We also look forward, contemplating how we should wait upon the Lord in this present moment of our lives, as God

continues to make Himself known to us.” Redeemer Lutheran Church worships at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday, with Communion weekly. “Join us as you grow deeper in your relationship with God by attending a Growth Group at 9:45 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 12,” the church stated. Two adult studies explore Philippians and Ezekiel, and there are classes in Youth Confirmation, as well as Youth Group (grades 6-12). The coming week’s activities include the following: Monday, Dec. 13, Church Council meets at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 14, Boy Scouts meet at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 15, Men’s Study meets at 6:30 a.m. “Join us Wednesday evening for our Advent Midweek Worship at 6:30 p.m. as we continue

the series “Waiting Room,” with the message: “Wait as His Child.” (John 1:10-13). We hope you can join us! Immediately following Midweek Advent Worship on Wednesdays is “Advent Plus” in our Family Life Center Gym until 8 p.m. These are times for fellowship, food, serving, fun and Jesus! Each week is a different theme the whole family will enjoy: Dec 15 is holiday cookie and treat pack-up for local police and first responders. For this outreach, you are asked to bring three dozen holiday treats – whether homemade or bought with love, all treats are welcome. We will then package these treats with notes of encouragement, delivering the next day. No nuts, please. Looking for a church to celebrate Christmas? We’d love

to have you as our guest! On Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, we have two services: 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. is a “Traditional Festival of Lessons & Carols.” Both have Communion and a Silent Night candle-lighting. From 78 p.m., a hot chocolate fellowship hour will be offered. On Christmas Day, Dec. 25, a traditional service is at 8:30 a.m. (with Communion). Questions? Contact the church office at (573) 364-7071 or info@RedeemerRolla.org. Feel free visiting our website: RedeemerRolla.org and “like” us on Facebook at Facebook.com/RedeemerRolla to stay updated with the latest news! Looking for a church home? Come “GROW” with us at Redeemer! Submit your news to contact@phelpscounty focus.com

Good tidings of great joy enjoyed by all the people

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demeaning words can cause spiritual wounds and permanent harm. Proverbs 18:21 says it like this, “The tongue has the power of life and death…” Your words matter. What you say about people matters—whether they hear them or not. Each of us has the choice whether we want to be an encourager or not. We can choose to use our words to build up others and breathe life into their souls. Conversely, we can choose to speak words that harm, attack and diminish those around us and slowly kill their spirits. The choice is ours. Parents, you have a choice to be an encouraging presence in the life of your children. If you’re married, you have the choice to be a source of encouragement for your spouse no matter the circumstance. No matter the relationship, you can choose to make a difference in someone’s life by pointing out

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“I just want to tell you how much I love you and how proud I am of you.” As I read those words, a lump formed in my throat. It was hard to make out the rest of the letter through the tears in my eyes. My hands shook as I held the simple, handwritten note. It was a short letter with an impactful, long-lasting message—I was loved. Little did she know, but my sister changed my life the day she wrote me that letter. At 19 years old, I made a lot of unwise decisions and unhealthy life-choices. In many ways, I was headed down a dark path and she knew it. She saw the sinful, dangerous direction I was headed, but she also saw the good and Godly potential hibernating within me—even when I didn’t see it myself. Reading that letter, I was confronted with the sinful state of my life and encouraged to change my course. That day was a

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Some of my absolute best, fondest, and greatest memories are those of my year at Ridgeview Christian Church working as youth leader—especially during Christmas program time. Oh, the good times! Oh, the sore throats and coughing we managed to power through! Oh, the sweet voices! Oh, the comic relief—intended and otherwise! Oh, the never-gets-old story of Jesus’ birth and what it means for us! And all told through hearts, minds, and voices of children. This year is no exception. Several churches throughout the county are presenting children’s Christmas programs as well as adult choir concerts/cantatas for our listening and viewing inspiration. Now, while I know this is not a complete list (for which I apologize, but I had to go with what I was provided and could find myself), it will give you several opportunities to hear, experience, and share in the good tidings of great joy this Christmas season. Your only problem is going to be deciding how to schedule

Darla Noble Focus on Faith your time so you can attend as many as possible. • Rolla First Assembly in Rolla, located at 1608 N. Oak, will present “Take Me Back to Bethlehem” cantata at 6:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. “The Magic of Christmas” will be featured at 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. on Dec. 12. • First Baptist Church in St. James will present their adult Christmas choir program at 10:15 a.m. on Sunday. The church is located at 132 Aida St. • First Baptist Church in Rolla will present their children’s Christmas choir program at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday. First Baptist is located at 801 N. Cedar St. Their annual Christmas cantata will be performed by the chancel choir on Dec. 19.

Submitted photo

at 10:30 a.m. during their normal service time. • Ridgeview Christian Church’s “Jingle Jam” program takes place. Sunday at 6 p.m., followed by a time of fellowship and delicious Christmas goodies. “Jingle Jam” is an interactive program, which means it gives the audience the option to actually participate in the program.

Don’t worry though, because your participation is optional. Ridgeview Christian Church is located at the corner of Ridgeview Road and Walker Street. If you have any questions regarding any of these programs feel free to contact the respective church offices. Coming soon: A list of candlelight services in the area.

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

11B

Education

Bulldog Preschool accepting applications Rolla Public Schools

Rolla High School is accepting applications for its spring Bulldog Preschool program. Bulldog Preschool is part of the early childhood program at RHS. High school students work in a lab setting with children ages 35. Children will attend on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday only from Feb. 1 until May 6. The times run from 8 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. The program requests a one-time $40 fee to cover expenses. If interested in learning more about this program or to enroll your Photo courtesy of Rolla Public Schools child, contact Jamie Cantrell at (573) 458-0101 ext. 14105 or RPS participated jcantrell@rolla31org.

Mrs. Spurgeon’s class drew her a thank you poster for Giving Tuesday.

Rolla schools participate in Giving Tuesday

in Giving Tuesday with a variety of projects, including food drives.

See more photos at phelpscountyfocus.com Rolla Public Schools

Students inducted into Rolla PTK Chapter East Central College

Students and staff throughout Rolla 31 participated in Giving Tuesday in conjunction with Giving Tuesday Military FLW Area’s Kindness on Route 66 Campaign in a variety of ways. Students made cards, shared kind words, participated in playground cleanups and led food drives to benefit those in our community. “We are proud of the giving spirit of our caring Rolla Bulldogs!” stated a press release.

Eight students recently took part in a virtual induction ceremony to join the Beta Omicron Phi Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society at East Central College in Rolla. Photo courtesy of The keynote speaker for Rolla Public the event was Stevi Kay Schools Berry, Missouri regional PTK officer and student at Ozarks Technical Community College, in Springfield. The following students were inducted during the ceremony: • Adrienne Elizabeth McCane • Makayla J. Mullins • Mariah Mae Daniels • Mark Gibbs Trawick • Alexis Diana Bolich • Andrew Paul Shelton • Jessica Lynn Richardson • Andrea Abigail Hribar After the ceremony, another member, Samantha Sophia Britton, joined the honor society. PTK membership is by invitation only and students must have a 3.4 GPA as a full-time student for a semester to join. Students must maintain an overall GPA of 3.2 once they are inducted. Membership is open to all majors throughout the college, including anyone working toward a degree or certificate. Those remaining who have been invited to join, but haven’t yet, can still do Photo courtesy of Rolla Public Schools so through the end of the year.

Dr. Morse’s class drew her a thank you poster for Giving Tuesday.

S&T helps integrate hands-on science into schools Meramec Dermatology Missouri S&T

Board-certified Dermatologist

Local high school teachers and 4-H leaders may

see the area’s streams, lakes, caves and springs differently after undergoing training with geoscientists

Puzzles Page 6B.

Adult & Pediatric

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phelpscountyfocus.com

at Missouri University of Science and Technology. A new Missouri S&T program, titled “Getting your

feet wet: Advancing geoscience education using water-based field experiences,” aims to increase recruitment of students into this field and overcome an awareness gap by training high school teachers on how to integrate geoscience field activities into the classroom. Thanks to a National Science Foundation grant, these educators will become more aware of geosciences as a potential career pathway for their students. Research areas such as water security and climate change are becoming more common, and 27% of the existing geosciences workforce is predicted to retire over the next decade.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Education

MISSOURI S&T Holiday concert set for Sunday Missouri S&T’s arts, languages and philosophy department will present its annual holiday concert at 2 p.m. Sunday in Leach Theatre of Castleman Hall, located at the corner of 10th and Main streets on the S&T campus. Ensembles featured in the concert include the S&T choirs, directed by Lorie Francis, associate teaching professor of music, and the wind symphony and jazz ensembles, directed by Dr. Kyle Wernke, assistant teaching professor of music. The ensembles will perform holiday standards including “Jingle Bells,” “Sleigh Ride,” “Carol of the Bells” and more. The concert will conclude with a holiday singalong. Tickets are $5 in advance, $7 at the door and free to youth age 18 and under and Missouri S&T students with a valid ID. Tickets can be purchased at the Leach Theatre Box Office, located inside the main entrance of Castleman Hall, facing 10th Street. The Leach Theatre Box Office is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Tickets can also be purchased online at leachtheatre.mst.edu or by calling (573) 341-4219. Service fees may apply to tickets purchased online or by phone.

12B

Leach Theatre will adhere to current Missouri S&T policies and CDC guidelines for masks and social distancing at the time of each performance or event. These policies and guidelines may change throughout the course of the season. Information regarding policies for each individual event will be regularly updated on the Leach Theatre website. Patrons and visitors should be prepared for the possibility of a face-covering policy or social distancing requirement. For more information, visit www.coronavirus.mst.edu For more information on the performance or Missouri S&T’s performing arts programs, call the performing arts office at (573) 341-4185.

Child care center open house Dec. 14 The local community is invited to attend an open house for Missouri University of Science and Technology’s new Child Development Center this December. The new center will offer child care year-round, starting in January 2022. The open house will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 14, at the S&T Child Development Center, located at 1207 N. Elm St. in the former Southwestern Bell Cultural Center. The center will enroll children

Addison Maynard and Sheradyn Kartchner in front of the Pearl Harbor Memorial in Hawaii.

ages 6 weeks to 5 years old. The center was recently remodeled to meet child care health, safety and sanitation standards with funds from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act Child Care Plan. The Missouri state government awarded grants to five university campuses to expand access to high-quality child care, especially for low-income families, by requiring that at least 30 percent of the children enrolled be eligible for child care subsidies. S&T’s new center will provide relief for families in Phelps County, where only 11% of demand for child care is met with existing licensed facilities, according to a 2018 Missouri Budget Project report. In accordance with Missouri S&T’s mission, the university has chosen stateapproved curriculum called “Project Construction.” The S&T Child Development Center’s full services will be developed in partnership with S&T’s teacher education and certification department and the early childhood program of The Community Partnership of Rolla, a local non-profit that provides services for children and families. For more information or to enroll a child in the center, visit childcenter.mst.edu.

For more coverage of Missouri S&T and education go to phelpscountyfocus.com

Photo courtesy of Rolla Public Schools

Photo courtesy of Rolla Public Schools Five Rolla High School cheerleaders made the All-American Cheer Team, and two members recently went to Hawaii to perform at the Pearl Harbor Memorial. The girls who made All-American were Akela McCracken, Kayleigh Jones, Addison Maynard, Sheradyn Kartchner and Mackenzie Harmon.

Five Bulldog cheerleaders named to All-America team Phelps County Focus Earlier this month, two Rolla High School cheerleaders who made the All-

American Cheer Team performed at the Pearl Harbor Memorial in Hawaii. The members who made All-American this year were

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Akela McCracken, Kayleigh Jones, Addison Maynard, Sheradyn Kartchner and Mackenzie Harmon. Maynard and Kartchner are the cheerleaders who went on the trip. “Our team at camp also won first place for our game-day routine which includes a band dance, sideline cheer and a floor cheer with stunts,” said RHS cheer coach Cassie Crecelius. “They also won second place for our rally routine, which is a dance with a stunting portion. We also received an Excellence Award, which means we came into camp already at a high level of skill. And lastly, we won the leadership award out of all the teams who attended our camp. This award was really special because each team voted on one team who displayed a lot of spirit and were leaders throughout camp.”

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Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

13B

Outdoors/Recreation

Valuable conservation discussions with grandchildren Deer season is virtually a state holiday in Missouri. Tens of thousands of hunters, both old and young, take the time to head to the woods in search of the most popular game animal in North America, the white-tailed deer. Families and friends often band together to form deer hunting camps, a tradition which allows family members to spend lots of time together to hunt, laugh, tell tall tales, and share some important life discussions. Although our family did not pitch tents, we did enjoy a deer camp of sorts with our grandchildren. Dian and I live in the woods in a rather rustic home, complete with a fire pit for campfires right out our front door. We also own a few acres in the hills, which are mostly wooded except a few small areas that I have cleared over the years while cutting fire wood. I began developing small food plots over 30 years ago and have improved them steadily over the years. As a result, deer frequent our property on a regular basis. Several of my grandchildren expressed interest in deer hunting the last few years. Raven Roach killed her first-year deer on our place three years ago and has hunted most years since. She enjoyed her last youth season here this year. Next year she will join the ranks of adult hunters. Jaydin Cooper, who is 17, joined me during the regular rifle season this year. I especially looked forward to hunting with her, since it would be our first deer hunt together. Jaydin is a very busy young lady. With high school activities and a job, she has little time to hunt. Jaydin joined me in the deer blind on a Sunday afternoon. I planned for us to get into the blind a little early, so we would have ample time to catch up before the magic hour of hunting, when we would have to quiet down and

Bill Cooper

December programs at the nature center will include: Submitted photo Sharing a deer blind with grandchildren gave the author opportunity to discuss import conservation principles with them.

Why?” “Deer have grazed them down that short,” I replied. “I added deer radishes to my planting mixture two years ago. Deer love them and I’ve had more deer coming to the plots this year than ever. My hard work over the years is really beginning to pay off.” The last hour of daylight approached and we settled in for the hunt. Our blind sat in the woods on the east end of the food plot. Jaydin watched out the side window nearest the plot while I watched the woods to the south. Around 4:30 p.m. I caught movement. A small doe slinked though the woods towards the food plot. I whispered to Jaydin. She slowly and quietly raised her .243 into shooting position. We shared a great outdoors moment together as the doe fed into the plot quartering to us. Jaydin quickly found the doe in the crosshairs of her scope. I whispered to her to wait for a broadside shot. Less than a minute later the doe turned. Jaydin settled into her rifle, clicked the safety off, took a deep breath, and squeezed the trigger slowly. At the report of the .243, the doe almost went down. Jaydin and I

watched together as the doe toppled over on the far end of the food plot. “That was awesome!” Jaydin laughed. Indeed, it was. It was Jaydin’s first deer. My 10-year-old grandson, Ronnie Austin, joined me for his first real deer hunt during the early youth season. We spent the better part of the day in the woods. We shared a two-man tree stand in the morning, overlooking a strip of oats through the woods. I explained to him that the additional food plantings help attract deer to my place, plus provided extra food value for deer and other animals. Ronnie was shocked to find out that there were no deer in southeast Missouri when I grew up. He asked, “why?” He listened intently as I shared the story of overuse of our natural resources and depletion of habitat that occurred. He was equally fascinated by the conservation success story of the restoration of deer and wild turkey in Missouri. “We are lucky to have so many deer now, aren’t we Papaw?” He understood just how lucky he is when, 10 minutes into our afternoon hunt, a small buck stepped into the food plot. It became his very first deer.

MDC on how to build bluebird boxes Missouri Department of Conservation If the surrounding landscape is right, putting up a bluebird nesting box is a great way to entice Missouri’s state bird to take up residence close to your home. People interested in learning more about how to build and put up a bluebird nesting box should sign up for the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) virtual program “Woodworking for Wildlife” on Dec. 16. This

online event will be 6-7:30 p.m. and is being put on by the staff of MDC’s Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center. This program is for all ages. In the wild, bluebirds compete with starlings, house sparrows and other creatures for cavity nesting space. It’s thought this shortage of natural nesting space is one reason bluebirds readily accept appropriately placed man-made nest boxes. In the Dec. 16 program, MDC Outdoor Education

Santa travels to Echo Bluff State Park Echo Bluff State Park Staff members at Echo Bluff State Park invite the public to meet special guest Santa Claus from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 19. Visitors are invited to read a Christmas book and make crafts while waiting on Santa to arrive from the North Pole. Once Santa arrives, visitors are encouraged to take photos with him. The public is strongly encouraged to follow social-

distancing guidelines and be proactive in protecting themselves and others. Echo Bluff State Park is located at 35244 Echo Bluff Drive, Eminence. For more information, please contact Echo Bluff State Park at (573) 7515211. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Runge Nature Center December programs The Missouri Department of Conservation’s Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City is open and ready to connect you with nature this winter. To help ensure public health and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, MDC asks all visitors to observe current, local guidelines regarding physical distancing and masking. Participants should wear masks covering mouth and nose inside the nature center and at public programs. The nature center has a full schedule of programs planned for December. Most programs require registration in advance and space is limited, so Runge Nature Center Assistant Manager Becky Matney encourages guests to familiarize themselves with MDC’s event website at short.mdc.mo.gov/ZPf.

Ozark Revelations pay attention. I greatly enjoyed the opportunity to explain to Jaydin why I had so many deer hanging around my place. She heard my stories about the two deer I had already taken and it spurred her to ask about joining me for a hunt. “Why do deer like this food plot so much, Grandpa?” she asked. “It’s been an experiment over the last 30 years, or so,” I explained. “I began planting wheat and clover about three decades ago. It took deer a couple of years to begin using it on a regular basis.” “But, deer use the food plot a lot these days, right?” she asked. “They do and it’s a pleasure to see.” I responded. “Soil fertility is important to all forms of life. The better the soil, the healthier the animals will be that live on it. Over the years I have limed and fertilized the soil in my food plots. As a result the crops I planted carried more food value. Deer and other animals such as squirrels, rabbits and turkeys naturally gravitate to areas with better food.” “What do you plant in your food plots now?” Jaydin asked. “I still plant oats and wheat and clover, but I’ve experimented over the years,” I explained. “I eventually added turnips. Deer love the tender green tops, plus they will dig the turnip bulbs up all winter. They really get sweet after the first frost.” “All of your plants in the plot are pretty short.

BRIEFLY

Center Specialist Keith DeBow will explain how all the cuts to make a nesting box can be made out of a single board. DeBow will also show how to assemble the pieces and will have tips about good nesting box locations that will attract bluebirds. Bluebird boxes work best in rural locations or in urban settings that have large yards. Nest boxes should be placed in open grassy areas that have perching sites. Meadows, pastures or big yards that are not too heavily shaded are ideal. Perching locations can be in the form of fence lines, power

lines or nearby trees. MDC’s Andy Dalton Range and Outdoor Education Center is located at 4897 N. Greene County Farm Road 61 near Ash Grove. Dalton Range staff are holding both virtual and -in-person programs. People can get more information about the range and about upcoming events by calling 417-742-4361. Information about bluebirds and bluebird nest boxes can also be found at mdc.mo.gov. People can sign up at: https://mdc-eventweb.s3licensing.com/Eve nt/EventDetails/178719

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Kids for Conservation: Build a Bee Home Saturday, Dec. 11, 10–11:30 a.m. — ages 7–12 Build a bee home to give to a family member, friend, or yourself. Discover which cavity-nesting bees may use your bee home and the role they play in our daily lives. Registration required at: mdc.com Winter Backyard Bird Watching — Virtual Program Tuesday, Dec. 14, 9–10 a.m. — all ages Winter is a great time to watch birds in your own backyard. Virtually observe birds visiting birdfeeders and learn what species you’ll likely find in backyards, how to identify them, and how to attract and conserve birds on your property. Registration required at: mdc.com. Relaxing Drawing Collage: Flowers of the Four Seasons Saturday, Dec. 18, 1–4 p.m. — ages 14+ Join the Runge collage drawing workshop — the culmination of all four Relaxing Drawing presentations from the past year, crafting them into one work of art. Participants will review the four wildflowers of 2021: Ozark witch hazel, spring beauty, Missouri coneflower, and bottle gentian, and create a ready-to-frame Missouri wildflower collage. Prior classroom attendance is not required to register. Runge will provide all art supplies. Registration required at: mdc.com. Cedar Wreath Building Wednesday, Dec. 22, 10–11 a.m., 11 a.m.–noon, 1–2 p.m., 2–3 p.m. — all ages Celebrate the holidays and help Runge make use of removed invasive red cedar trees and Oriental bittersweet by building your own cedar wreath to take home this season. Registration required for each session: 10 a.m. — mdc.com Fireside Nature Stories Tuesday, Dec. 28, 10–11 a.m. — all ages Bundle up and join Runge staff for an outdoor story time focusing on winter wildlife. Hot chocolate and a fire pit will be available to warm up. Geared for ages 0–6, but fun for all ages. Registration required at: mdc.com Primitive Skills: Atlatl Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2–3:30 p.m. — ages 10+ An atlatl is a primitive hunting tool created more than 20,000 years ago. Join Runge staff to explore the history of the atlatl and how it is used today. Staff will then demonstrate technique and give participants an opportunity to try it out. Registration required at: mdc.com. Beginner Fly Tying Thursday, Dec. 30, 1–3 p.m. — ages 10+ Fly tying is an enjoyable way to stay connected with the sport of fishing during the winter months. Discover what equipment is needed to tie flies before creating your own to take home. Runge will provide all equipment and materials. Registration required at: mdc.com Visitors can conveniently manage program registration online at mdc.mo.gov/centralevents. The first step in registering for a program is creating an account, then signing up for future programs is simple. Once registrants create an account and register for events, they will receive details about those specific programs. Families now have the option to link their children’s accounts to their own accounts which will streamline the program registration process. Once a group account is set up, parents will be able to register their children to an event without having to logoff and login for each individual. This functionality will allow parents to register their entire family or select family members to an event at the same time. First, users will log into their account and click “My Group Profile,” then add family members to their account. Setting up a group account today will make program registration quicker and easier for all MDC programs. Sign up for email and/or text updates from Runge Nature Center and other conservation news at mdc.mo.gov/GovDelivery. Events at Runge Nature Center are free, thanks to the one-eighth of 1 percent conservation sales tax. Runge Nature Center, located at 330 Commerce Drive in Jefferson City, is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.; and Thursday, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Trails at the nature center are open every day, 6 a.m.–9 p.m. Visitors should practice physical distancing and wear masks covering mouth and nose when distancing is not feasible. Runge Nature Center will be closed on Saturday, Dec. 25, for Christmas, and on Saturday, Jan. 1, for New Year’s Day. Trails will remain open 6 a.m.–9 p.m. For more information about events at Runge Conservation Nature Center, visit mdc.mo.gov/discovernature/places/runge-conservation-nature-center, or call the nature center at 573-526-5544.

Phelps County Focus/Rolla, Mo.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

14B

Insider

The last of Salem’s gas pumpers, Larry Dallas By Caleb Brubaker Staff Writer reporter@thesalemnewsonline.com

Photo by Caleb Brubaker Larry Dallas (right) pumping gas for regular customer, Danielle Payne, during his shift at Phil-Mart.

FLIRTING/Other no-no’s were horse racing and lewd dress From Page 1B A fine of $10 to $100 was established for failure to obey the health orders. There was additionally a fine of the same amount for visiting a quarantined person without prior approval of the health board.

Poll tax and city salaries

for each working day actually employed in the service of the city. The Street Commissioner received $2 each working day, while the City Clerk received an annual salary of $120. As for the Night Watchman, that position received $15 per month.

Good morals and decency

Back when Rolla’s streets were first in need of paving, the taxes owed to the city came in the form of poll tax of three days manual labor. Yes, Section 2 of Ordinance 35 sets forth that; “The Board of Alderman shall levy the annual city tax, they shall levy a poll tax not to exceed three days’ labor on the street and alleys of the city or pay in lieu thereof the sum of $2.50 upon all able-bodied male persons.” Today, that amount would be worth around $70. Speaking of money, back in 1908, Ordinance No. 26 gave the mayor an annual salary of $25 per year. Members of the city council were paid $1.50 for each meeting they attended. The City Engineer received $3

Ordinance No. 49 established several regulations “relating to offenses against good morals and decency.” Of Rolla City Cemetery, Section 16 states no person “shall resort to such cemetery graveyard or burial ground belonging to the city, for the purpose of adultery or fornication, or shall commit adultery or fornication therein.” If so, the fine was not less than $5 and no more than $100. Banned in Rolla by Ordinance No. 49 was also: • Horse racing, cock fighting and playing cards or games of any kind on Sundays; • No alcohol sales on Sundays; • No merchandise selling or restaurant dining on

Sundays, except drugs or medicine; • Employers could not make their employees work on a Sunday; • No nudity, lewd dress or wearing clothes not belonging to one’s gender nor indecent or lewd acts or behavior and/or selling books or pictures of lewdness; • No houses of “ill-fame or prostitution” were allowed in the city; • Using any profane or obscene language on any street, lane, alley, or public place in this city. Fine was not less than $3 nor more than $20; • Disturbing the peace of any family or person, or the peace of the neighborhood, within the limits of the City of Rolla, by loud or/unusual noise, loud, offensive or indecent conversation, or by threatening, quarreling or fighting. Fine was not less than $1 and no more than $50; • Exhibiting any stallion or jackass on public streets or hitching any such stallion or jackass on a street, alley or any other public place in the Rolla city limits. Fine was not less than $1 and no more than $10.

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It is a feature peculiar to Salem, that a gas pumper can still be encountered when one goes to Phil-Mart on Main St. Larry Dallas is a familiar face to many people in town as the last gas pumper in Salem, Dent County and probably anywhere close by. Larry can be found at Phil-Mart Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings from 7:30 – 11 a.m. “Larry is a good guy and people love him,” said Daniel Salyer who manages Phil-Mart—his family purchased PhilMart from the Chilton’s 22 years ago. November marked Dallas’ fifth year on the job at Phil-Mart. Previously, Dallas worked at Gas Plus on Rolla Rd. as a gas pumper, but when it closed down he was left without work. Originally from St. Genevieve, Dallas and his wife Dawn-Starr moved to Salem about nine years ago. Dallas has been a blue-collar worker his whole life. Before moving here, he worked a number of years for Illinois-Missouri Railroad and MFA Oil as a driver. That kind of work eventually came to be too much for Dallas. “I’ve had three heart attacks and nine stents,” he said. “I’m 73 years old. I had my first heart attack at 46 and my second one exactly 10 years later.” “I usually made it down to Montauk to fish two or three times a year, so my wife said we should just move down here,” he said. Soon after arriving in Salem, Dallas got a job as a gas pumper at Gas Plus when it was still open on Rolla Rd., where he worked for almost two years before they closed. That’s where he first worked with Melvin Griffith who pumped gas there and later at Phil-Mart—who started working at Phil-Mart before Dallas. Griffith passed away this summer. “He was a good guy to work with,” said Dallas. “He used to work mornings and I

worked the afternoon,” he said. “After he got sick, I took over the mornings.” “It wasn’t more than a week later after Gas Plus closed I had a job working for Steve Wells (Wells Package & Gun),” he said. “Steve’s a great guy,” said Dallas. “But it wasn’t for me.” Dallas also used to do maintenance work at the Salem Public Library. “They were good to me there, too,” he said. According to Dallas, neither job was really his cup of tea. “I’d much rather be working outside,” he said. “The cold doesn’t really bother me, I can always put more layers on; it’s the heat that does me in.” His regulars know that when he’s not pumping gas for customers, he’s waiting cheerily next to the door to greet anyone who visits Phil-Mart during his shift. “I guess I’ve become a bit of a fixture around here,” he said. But every once in awhile, out-of-towners will visit the gas station and are surprised to find a gas pumper still on staff. “Some of them are shocked—blown away. They look at me like I’m crazy,” he said. “I really appreciate it,” said Bonnie Parks, a local ninety-plus widow who appreciates not having to get out pump her own gas. “Larry always does a good job,” she said. “I love Larry,” said Danielle Payne, who said she tries to fuel up when Dallas is working. “We’re like family,” she said. “Larry is an amazing guy,” praised Michelle Nelson, another one of Dallas’ regulars It seems that everyone is happy to see him—you’ll hear barrage of hellos, howdys, how are you doin’s, and have good days fired back and forth between the friendly Dallas and the customers coming and going to and from Phil-Mart all morning. “I’ve worked with Larry since he started,” said Christi Blackwell, a Phil-Mart employee. “He’s always been great to work with,” she said.

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Pages Phelps County Focus, Rolla, Mo.