Thursday, June 29, 2023
Volume 151, No. 26 - Princeton, MO 64673
FIND THIS INFORMATION AND MORE IN THIS WEEK’S PRINCETON POST-TELEGRAPH
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Mercer board deeds land, approves budget Property was once site of a country school, one of many in the district. Surplus budget for 2022-23, deficit plan for 2023-24 approved PRESTON COLE Princeton Post-Telegraph
MERCER A Mercer area couple will receive one-half acre of land that is on their property, which was once the site of a country school. The action to issue a quit claim deed to Richard and Linda Taff came during the June 12 meeting of the North Mercer County R-3 Board of Education. During the meeting, the board also closed the 2022-23 fiscal year, adopted a preliminary 2023-24 budget, and made decisions on extra-duty assignments. Quit claim deed Title agent Fonda Shipley, owner of Mercer County Title Company in Princeton, handed out information on old country school properties inside the district. They are exempt from taxes and owned by the Mercer district. The Taffs own property that
has one of those sites on it, and they want to have the site deeded to them so that they could fill an old cistern. The board voted 5-0 to do a quit claim deed to the couple for the site, which is one-half acre in size. Board president Ervin Taff abstained from the vote, and another member was absent from the meeting. The couple is responsible for all costs. Shipley noted most of the sites of the old country school are smaller than one-half acre. The original deed for the site the Taffs are getting was dated 1861. Surplus budget for 2022-23 Amendments included to the 2022-23 budget means the district ran at a healthy surplus. Revenue went up by $190,800, while expenses were down by $10,615. Those factors placed final revenues at $3,693,495, against expenses of $3,314,597 for a surplus of $378,597. Superintendent Dan Owens said that the district’s capital projects fund (Fund 4) had
Sticken speaks to kids about military experience
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U.S. Army Reserves Staff Sgt. Ethan Sticken (the really tall guy) shared his military experience Friday, June 23 for the Mercer County Library’s Summer Reading Program. He taught the kids about his travels, his uniform and exercise, they played a marching game, and even let them try MREs. The children enjoyed him reading to them and he also brought an American eagle craft for them to make. It was the perfect way to celebrate our patriotism heading into the upcoming 4th of July. Sticken also serves as a science teacher at Princeton High School.
4th of July events set for three area towns
See Assignments, Page 5
More progress on new ballfields noted
Activities from early morning to after dark in Mercer, Pleasanton and Princeton Post-Telegraph staff report
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A crew was in Princeton late last week to install the backstop and fence poles on the new softball and baseball fields. The fields will have netting to protect spectators from dugout to dugout, and the traditional chain link in the outfield areas.
Three local communities are having Independence Day events next Tuesday, July 4. You can start the day at 7 a.m. by attending the annual breakfast and bake sale sponsored by Ragan-Hickman American Legion Auxiliary Unit 477 at the Mercer Community Center/Legion Hall. Proceeds from the hometown-style breakfast go toward the auxiliary’s project of placing small American flags at the graves of veterans in Mercer County cemeteries. Next, you can take a drive to Pleasanton, Iowa, for the village’s 165th annual Independence Day event. Activities include a parade at 11 a.m. (line up at 10), hometown talent at 12:15 p.m., music at 1 p.m.,
and games for all ages at 2 p.m.. 4-H and other food stands will be available. Note: If you’re new to the area, Pleasanton is located on the north side of the Missouri/ Iowa state line in northwestern Mercer County on Route B (in Missouri, anyway). Finally, come to Princeton for the Chamber of Commerce’s annual celebration at Gentry Field in the lower fairgrounds. The Rev. Mike Tipton will offer the opening prayer at 6 p.m., followed by Felisha Bertrand performing the national anthem and local talent performing. The band Branded Souls will play from 6:30 to dusk, at which time local pyrotechnician and his crew will set off the fireworks display. In between, the chamber will See 4th of July, Page 2
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2 • Princeton Post-Telegraph • CLASSIFIED ADS • NEWS
STORAGE UNITS
INFORMATION
For Rent - Large storage unit. Elm Street Storage, Princeton. 660-748-3619. 6-8-ufnbP+C
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5 Miles South of Ravanna 660-748-5795 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday 1-5-2023-ufnP+C
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SERVICES
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Aaron Franklin, Sales Agent Princeton, MO 64673 660-748-6314 YOUR REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST! 1-5-2023ufnP+C
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NO HUNTING NOTICE - Hunting and trespassing with dog and/or gun, trapping or fishing on land owned or leased by the undersigned is strictly forbidden. You are hereby warned to keep off these properties. Trespassers will be prosecuted.
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No tresspassing for any reason on land that we own or lease. John & Linda Baughman. 9-29-22-52tpP+C
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No hunting or trespassing on any land owned by Bill and Peggy Heck. 9-15-22-52tbP+C ––––––––––––––––––––––––
No hunting, fishing or trespassing on property owned, leased or rented by Joe and Victoria Ryan. 4-27-23-52tpP+C ––––––––––––––––––––––––
Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on Highland Farms land owned and operated by Dixie Berger, Joe Berger & Steve Berger. 5-19-22-52tpP+C
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Absolutely NO TRESPASSING, including but not limited to hunting, fishing, hiking, mushroom hunting and drones on land owned and/ or rented by FRJ Family Farms, LLC and Roberta Zimmer. 3-23-23-52tpP+C
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PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate and/or houses, and all rental housing and/or property, advertised in the Princeton Post-Telegraph newspaper and the Courier shopper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. We will not knowlingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. ––––––––––––––––––––––––
EDITOR’S NOTICE The receipt of news, advertisements, letters to the editor, and/or press releases by the Princeton Post-Telegraph DOES NOT constitute an agreement to publish such news, advertisements, letters to the editor, and/or press releases. All news, advertisements, letters to the editor, and/or press releases will be published at the discretion of the editor. At all times, the editor reserves the right to edit, amend, and/ or delete any and all information at will, with or without explanation. The limit of liability of the Princeton Post-Telegraph takes no responsibility for advertising, legal and/or non-legal, not published. The Princeton Post-Telegraph takes no responsibility for the non-publishing of news, letters to the editor, and/or press releases. This notice also applies for advertisements for the Courier (shopper).
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WANTED: HUNTING LAND
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WANTED: Looking for deer hunting lease in Harrison, Mercer, Putnam or Worth County for 2023 season and beyond. Will pay top dollar, not an outfitter. Fully insured, references available. 1-715495-3241. 6-29-4tb P+C
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GARAGE SALES ETC.
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Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on land owned by Barbara & LeRoy Hider. 10-13-22-52tpP+C
No hunting, trespassing or fishing on property owned, leased or rented by Howard or Joe Don Pollard. 4-21-22-52tpP Absolutely no hunting or trespassing on Choate property at any time. 3-30-23-52tpP
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Absolutely no hunting with guns or dogs, fishing, or trespassing on land owned by Berndt Farm and Berndt Twin Lake Inc. 11-10-22-52tpP ––––––––––––––––––––––––
No hunting or trespassing on Cox family property - Andy and Donna Cox, and Robert and Tina Cox. 12-3-20-104tpP ––––––––––––––––––––––––
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ALL garage sales (and similar sales) MUST be paid for in advance, unless you have an account that is in good standing.
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Garage Sale - Saturday, July 1, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Payton Goodin, 403 South Truax, Princeton. Infant girls clothes and shoes, adult women’s clothes and shoes, toys, bags and purses, home decor, bikes. 6-29pP+C
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I don’t fear From Page 11
shadows around corners.” In the September 2013 veto session, the Missouri House came up two votes short of overriding his veto. COVID-19 was a test run for implementing many of the 17 planks of the Great Reset. On March 16, 2023, U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri said “You’re either a nationalist or you’re a globalist. Ronald Reagan was a nationalist.” Hawley continued, “We can see the effects of forever war, forever trade deficits, and industry going to china. The neocons are globalist and they want a liberal empire all over the world.” (Fox News) The battle is not left vs. right, the battle is globalist vs. American values of free markets and individual liberty. Paul Hamby is a free-thinking conservative farmer and small business owner in northwest Missouri’s DeKalb County.
4th of July From Page 1
serve free watermelon, a decades-old tradition. There will be a concession stand available serving barbecued hamburgers, chips and more, and Page’s Cool Treats will be selling shaved ice and fresh lemonade. Persons planning on attending are urged to bring lawn chairs. In the event of rain, the celebration will be held Saturday, July 8.
Farm bill From Page 6
The last week of each month, through September, you can catch an overview of the current state of play with farm policy on our podcast, “Digging In with Missouri Farm Bureau.” Join us as we hear from experts on the legislative landscape, commodity safety net programs and the prospect of big changes to conservation programs. The first installment of this series is available at MOFB.org. Yes, 2023 is shaping up to be a big year for farm policy, but as far as Cardinals and Royals baseball goes, I’m not so sure a World Series is in the lineup for either team. Spencer Tuma serves as director of national legislative affairs for Missouri Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization.
June 29, 2023
Hay scams From Page 1
you are unfamiliar with a particular seller, research the seller on the Attorney General’s or Better Business Bureau’s website for any complaints. Use a credit card. If you purchase hay online, it is recommended you complete your transaction with a credit card or cashier’s check. Purchasing a product with a credit card often provides you with protections that you would not otherwise have if you purchase it with cash, check, debit card, or apps like Cash App or Venmo. Remember: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Chinn estimates that the current rate for a large round bale of hay is between $100 and $125. Bailey encourages Missourians with complaints regarding a potential hay scam to contact the Missouri Attorney General’s Consumer Complaint Hotline at 800-392-8222 or ago.mo.gov.
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Transfer of wealth From Page 8 2013. It notes demographic trends, including Missouri’s aging population with a larger proportion of the population reaching retirement age, which increases the amount of wealth being transferred between generations. Missouri also is experiencing population loss in some areas, particularly rural counties. The AMCF encourages Missourians to talk to their families and financial advisors about their charitable intentions during their estate planning. Members of the Alliance work with donors
and their advisors on how to achieve their intentions through the wide variety of fund types and other charitable tools available to fulfill their goals. About the AMCF The Alliance of Missouri Community Foundations was founded in 2012 to serve as a networking and collaboration resource for Missouri’s community foundations, which are regional public charitable foundations serving specific geographic areas.
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NEWS • Princeton Post-Telegraph • 3
June 29, 2023
CAINSVILLE
MELANIE CHANEY
Birthdays in July that I’m aware of are as follows: Marty Crouse, Vanya Skroh, Gary Crouse, Mark Morehouse, Jerry Mcguire, Bart Skroh, Julie Bain, Teresa Doty, Kent Smith, David Thomas, Barb Crawley, Jerry Allen, Sandy Dennis, Rachel Hamilton, Ed Meinecke, Nathan McLain, Tara Robbins, Elena Osmond, Nick Booth, Kelly Stark, Heath Ledgerwood, Gunner McLain, Zeb Cook, Braden Woody, Garrett Barton, Travis Hagen, Briley Rinehart, Linley Hamilton, Ron Johnson and Taryn Johnson. Let me know if there is someone I missed. Planning for Cainsville’s annual 4th of July event on July 7-8th is in full swing. Lots of stuff is planned for that saturday, Including the parade, baby show, car show, car cruise, bingo, kickball tournament, and other games, bounce houses, a band, flea market, vendors, and some great fireworks to end the night. Hope to see everyone there. Check it out on Facebook under Cainsville Missouri City Happenings. Lila McLain celebrated her 82nd birthday on Sunday, June 18. Morgan and Sherri McLain from Lenexa, Kan., and Kay and Randall Thomas from Bethany enjoyed dinner with Lila. After dinner they went to the home of Ronda and Bryan Pash for birthday cake. Lila’s great-grandson Sawyer turned 6 on June 15 so they both had a birthday cake. Joshua Pash and Jackson, Page, Joe, Carson and Hunter Eads, Walker Thomas, Sierra, Kaylynn, McKinley and Berkeley Wolf were also in attendance. Dennis Nelson from Cape Coral, Fla,, visited with Lila McLain on Monday, June 19 and had lunch at the cafe in Cainsville. Dennis visited with several people around and in Cainsville on the June 19-20. Please keep Jerry Stallsworth in your thoughts and prayers. He is currently dealing with some health issues. A large crowd attended a dinner and celebration on Tuesday, June 20 for 25 consecutive years thaf the Cainsville Community Clinic has been serving the community. Denise Jennings, former clinic provider and board member for Northwest Health Services, presented small engraved silver bars to previous board members
and some very pretty flowers to the clinic staff. Members of the Northwest Health S presented a check to the Cainsville school to help with the new gym floor. Others attending the event were Troy Henry, FNP and the clinic staff and former clinic director Terry Hall and his wife. Herman and Melanie Chaney attended a car show at Black Silo Winery in Trenton on Saturday, June 24. There were 99 vehicles entered in the event and lots of spectators. It has been brought to my attention that I forgot to mention this year how the local, and I’m sure not local, cemeteries are in desperate need of funds for upkeep. The price of mowing along with everything else has went up this year. Several cemeteries are dealing with fallen and damaged stones and brush and trees that need to be trimmed back. To put it bluntly, and you know I will, if you have relatives or someone you cared abouts headstone in the cemeteries, please donate to help with the upkeep before you’re walking through brush and weeds to pay your respects. Most cemeteries are also 501(c)(3) and donations should be tax deductible if anyone is looking for a good cause. Any and all news is greatly appreciated! Please send me some for next week!
COMMISSION
MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION
Report taken from minutes of meetings of the Mercer County Commission. All votes are unanimous unless otherwise noted.
Monday, June 12 • Minutes of the June 5 meeting were approved. • Bills were approved and paid. • Road & Bridge supervisor Shawn Powell presented mileage logs dated April 4-June 8. • Commissioners the treasurer’s monthly balance sheet and balance of delinquent taxes, dated May 31, from Collector/Treasurer Susan Moore, verified by County Clerk Judy Hamilton. They also received the balance of protested taxes and monthly revenues and expenses from Hamilton. • Commissioners approved the following liquor licenses: Casey’s Marketing Company, dba Casey’s General Store #1092 for original package liquor and Sunday original package liquor. • Commissioners received fees collected during May from Asses-
sor Dana Widner. • Commissioners received meal costs for inmates, the May mileage logs and motor equipment expense reports for Deputy Randy Francis and Deputy Riley Nelson, and the May motor equipment expense report from Sheriff Jose Lopez. • The county received the May sales tax and use tax reports from the Missouri Department of Revenue for the county’s use on June 7. • Commissioners and Hamilton signed a certified copy of order authorizing Moore to pay the following: *$341.46 to postmaster for Land Tax Sale postage, and $95.78 to GRM Networks for the phone bill (money taken from Treasurer’s Maintenance Fund #34); *$40.56 to General Revenue for half of the Xerox lease (money tak-
en from Recorder’s Special Fund 06); *$230.60 to Tiger Commissary Services for commissary items for prisoners (money taken from Jail Commissary Fund #49); *$352.68 to Howe Company, LLC for matching funds on Bridge 01300281 BRO-B065 (42), Progress Invoice 4; and $542.60 to Howe Company, LLC for matching funds on Bridge 2550002 BRO-B065 (39), Progress Invoice 13 (money taken from SLFRF/ARPA Grant Fund 7); and *$43 to Grundy Electric Cooperative for utilities in Lindley Township (money taken from Lindley Township Fund 43) • Mike Booth spoke to commissioners about EMD funding options for Mercer. FEMA and SEMA are starting a new funding program for interested counties, a monthly
allotment of $1,000 with no county match. Commissioners voted to add Mercer County to the list of interested parties.
LAND TRANSFERS
Friday, June 16 • Gary Reed to Jenny Irene Carter et al. • Paul Ryan to Ryan Farms IV LLC. Wednesday, June 21 • Winton E. “Gene” and Twyla J. Coon to the
Gene, Twyla and Allan Coon Foundation. • MCTETH No. 30, LLC to Robert S. Banks.
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4 • Princeton Post-Telegraph • NEWS
June 29, 2023
Producers get advice on keeping livestock cool during extreme heat HARLEY NOKES Special to the Post-Telegraph COLLEGE STATION, Texas The best place to be
when the sweltering summer weather arrives is inside with air conditioning, yet livestock outside of air-conditioned barns often need other ways to beat the heat. Dr. Isabelle Louge, a clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, says that while all livestock can cool down using shade, water, and fans, cooling strategies for livestock vary depending on the species and breed. For example, shade is a common way to provide animals relief from the sun, but some benefit from the shade more than others. “Access to shade particularly helps light-skinned animals from getting sunburned in areas with very little hair, such as the nose and around the eyes; white pigs, especially, should be kept under shade during the day since they are prone to sunburns,” Louge said. “Trees, run-in shelters, and open-sided canopies and roofs can serve as
Princeton’s new league to keep same name Princeton officially joins the new Grand River Conference West on July 1 for sports and academic activities Special to the Post-Telegraph
ALBANY During a meeting of conference officials on June 13, the name Grand River Conference West was adopted for the 2023-24 school year for the new conference. That’s basically what it had been called since the league expanded to 16 schools in late 2015, in time for the 2016-17 school year. The new conference will be comprised of Albany, King City, North Andrew, North Harrison, Pattonsburg, Princeton, St. Joseph Christian, Stanberry and Worth County. Princeton is moving from the GRC East after deciding to make the switch from 11-man football to 8-man, effective with the upcoming 2023 season. All Tiger sports and academic activities will compete in the GRC West.
great sources of shade, or owners can consider only letting animals out to graze at night.” While drinking water can significantly cool down animals as well, owners should be aware of how animals use water differently. “Cows sit in watering holes to help them cool off, yet this method of cooling off can increase the moisture in a cow’s hooves, which make them soft and can lead to lameness from foot diseases like foot rot and abscesses,” Louge said. “It is better to discourage this behavior and provide other means to cool down animals with water.” One effective way to cool down animals is to wet them periodically with cool - not cold - water, because, as Louge points out, cold water shocks the system and causes blood vessels near the skin’s surface to contract, reducing an animal’s ability to release heat. “Most livestock species - with the exception of horses and donkeys - do not sweat to cool down, and because they can’t take advantage of this evaporative cooling nat-
urally, physically wetting down animals and using a strong fan can create a breeze that encourages evaporation, mimicking sweating and cooling the animal,” Louge said. Fans, in general, are a good addition to cooling strategies because the increased airflow helps animals lose heat through their skin, but Louge advises owners to take care when considering the presence of fans around their animals. “It is important to make sure the animals do not get access to the fan blades or electrical cords, as these can be hazardous,” Louge said. “Owners should also make sure the fans are designed for high outdoor temperatures, as the motor can overheat and catch fire if they are not made for such temperatures.” Other methods of cooling can be tailored more specifically to animals as well. Animals with fiber or long hair - including wooly sheep, llamas, alpacas, angora goats, cashmere goats, and highland cattle - can keep cool easier once their hair is removed. “The more hair or
How embarrassing Between 2012 and 2016 the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration issued hundreds of thousands of license plates bearing a website address www.starspangled200.org/ - in commemoration of the War of 1812. Some 798,000 autos still have those plates but, in the meantime, the patriotic online link changed hands and now it takes visitors to a Philippines-based Internet gambling site. It’s embarrassing and so MVA techies are scrambling to find a way to resolve the dilemma.
fleece a large animal has, the more likely it is to get heat stressed,” Louge said. “So for animals with very thick wool or hair, it is a good idea for owners to shear them multiple times in the summer to make sure they do not get too shaggy.” Because of this, if possible, Louge suggests owners who live in warm areas not purchase animals that naturally have a lot of hair or wool; instead, owners should select a breed that is well-adapted to the local climate. Finally, animals that rely on fermentation to digest their food - including cattle, goats, llamas, alpacas, horses, and donkeys - should not eat during the hottest part of the day, as this can overheat the animal. “When these species eat a meal, the bacteria in their gut break down the food and produce heat as a byproduct,” Louge explained. “Because of this, it is best to feed animals early in the morning and in the evening when the sun is going down.” No matter the animal, however, owners should bring their animals into the shade and provide water and a fan if they notice
The Science Times says it is unusual to come across a large pod of killer whales, but a team of Oceanic Society researchers came across a pod composed of some 24 of them off the coast of San Francisco recently. Michael Pierson, a member of the team, said that “just seeing them is always really exciting, but seeing such a large grouping was what made it a one-of-a-kind experience.” It is uncertain why such a large gathering of orcas showed up at the site, according to another member of the research team who said they could have been on a hunt or merely socializing.
signs of overheating, such as fast breathing, panting, decreased activity level, slobbering, stumbling, and incoordination. Heat stress can worsen quickly, so Louge also strongly recommends calling a veterinarian to assess the animal and ensure they do not require more extensive supportive care to resolve the overheating issue. Extreme heat can cause stress for livestock, and it is an owner’s responsibil-
ity to maintain their animal’s health. By personalizing cooling strategies to an animal’s species and breed, owners can ensure their livestock are able to withstand the stifling heat and remain comfortable throughout the summer. Pet Talk is a service of the School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the web at vetmed. tamu.edu/news/pet-talk.
NEWS • Princeton Post-Telegraph • 5
June 29, 2023
Assignments made by Mercer board From Page 1 $20,900 in it at the time of the meeting. The district is allowed to transfer roughly $160,000 from Fund 1 (operations) to Fund 4, and he recommended transferring $100,000 for roof repairs, a new scoreboard at the softball field, a “crow’s nest” at the softball field, and summer projects. The board unanimously approved the request. The board also authoized Owens to “final out” end-of-year expenses on Friday, June 30. That’s the last day of the 2022-23 school year and the last day of Owens’ tenure as superintendent. His retirement officially begins at the end of that day. Deficit budget for 2023-24 A preliminary budget for the 2023-24 school year was presented and approved. The budget estimates revenues of $3,163,268 against expenses of $3,198,900, for a deficit of $35,632. Extra-duty assignments The district had openings for some extra-duty roles due to employees not signing their contracts for the duties. And, the board made the following appointments to fill the positions: • Wade Hall, athletics director, a role added to his duties as superintendent on July 1; • Brady McElvain, junior high basketball coach for girls and boys; • Sherri Barker, elementary basketball coach; and • Laura Mason, dance advisor. Before the votes, Hall recommended increasing the softball coach’s stipend from 4% of the base teacher salary - $32,000 to 5%, and to double the stipend for coaching elementary basketball from $300 to $600. Owens said it would “be nice” to have someone help supervise extracurricular activities. Hall, who’s meeting with teachers on July 10, will talk about the issue in or-
CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS
The Princeton PostTelegraph strives for accuracy and fairness in all of its news stories and photo captions. If you feel we have made an error, please contact us at 660748-3266 or posttele@ grm.net (email) to request a correction. If it is found we are in error, we will be happy to publish a correction or clarification.
der to take it to the board during its August meeting. During that part of the meeting, the board employed Jeff Wyatt as a bus driver for the 2023-24 academic year. Other actions • At the start of the meeting, Mercer resident Bill Casey asked the board to go into a closed session under Section 610.021(1), RSMo. The board did so later in the meeting for four minutes, with no action taken. • The consent agenda was approved. All reports except the delinquent tax report was in the packet of information board members received. Those taxes can in at $106,497.65. Owens said the district could wait a year on buying a new school bus. • Hall reported he’s having a meeting with teachers on July 10 to go over CSIP (Comprehensive School Improvement Plan) goals and update them. He said the attendance goal for the year was met. • In his report, Hall noted that 23 students attended summer school, and that seven FBLA (Future Business Leaders of
America) and the chapter advisor would be attending national competition in Atlanta, Ga., at the end of June. He also said the Mercer County Area Development Corporation is interested in moving the house that’s north of the preschool building, and the group inquired into what their responsibility is in regards to the basement. The school district is responsible for filling the basement. The school board wants to go through the house before its July meeting to look at an old stage and the house to try to see what can be sold or gotten rid of the create more space. • Owens said he’d spoken with Commercial Roof Coatings of Leon, Iowa, and was told there would be a warranty on new roofing on the gym, commons, ramp, the kitchen, and bubbles on the old gym. The board voted to approve the company’s bid of $30,000, and to pay for it under the 2022-23 budget. Editor’s Note: Information for this report was taken from unapproved meeting minutes provided by district bookkeeper Jennifer Lynn Wilson.
Iditarod musher, dog entertain
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Three-time Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race participant and one of her dogs, Noggin, gave the program for the Mercer County Library’s Summer Reading Program on June 13. BUY A COPY OF THIS WEEK’S PRINCETON POST-TELEGRAPH AT THESE LOCATIONS: PRINCETON - Casey’s • EverCare Pharmacy • Hy-Vee Clinic Pharmacy Snappy’s • Post-Telegraph Office MERCER - Hour Place • Mercer Hometown Market SOUTH LINEVILLE - Randy’s Short Stop
6 • Princeton Post-Telegraph • NEWS
June 29, 2023
PSC approves Roeslein application on pipeline Special to the Post-Telegraph
The Missouri Public Service Commission has approved an application filed by Roeslein Alternative Energy Services, LLC (RAES) which sought a waiver of a Commission rule regarding gas pressure and odorization requirements in the operation of a natural gas transmission line in Sullivan and Mercer counties. JEFFERSON CITY
RAES sought a waiver of the requirement under a Commission rule that sets the gas pressurization limit of 100 psig. The waiver would allow a maximum allowable operating pressure of 125 psig for the construction of an intrastate gas transmission pipeline segment that would transport renewable gas from the Locust Ridge Farm in Sullivan County to a point of injection on an existing
RAES pipeline in Mercer County (the Badger-Wolf to ANR Pipeline). RAES also requested a waiver of a Commission rule regarding regulating gas odorization for the same segment of line. In a filing with the Commission, the Public Service Commission staff recommended the application be approved with conditions. “The Commission has reviewed and considered
RAES’ application and staff’s recommendation (with all subsequent corrections) and determines waiver of the gas pressurization and gas odorization requirements, with staff’s proposed conditions as corrected, will not compromise gas safety,” said the Commission in a media release. “The Commission will grant the waiver request with conditions, as recommended by staff.”
2023 appears likely to be a “big” farm bill year SPENCER TUMA Special to the Post-Telegraph JEFFERSON
CITY,
Mo.
There’s nothing quite like a “Farm Bill Year.” For those engaged in agricultural policymaking, it’s a pretty big deal. When farm bills come around, policy wonks love to recall the successes and failures of previous bills. No matter how long you’ve been in the ag policy game, everyone always talks about the farm bill in terms of “big years.” Will this be a big year for a new farm bill? Designed to support farmers and ranchers, assist rural communities, and provide food assistance to low-income families, farm bills are typically passed every five years. With 12 titles covering commodity support, crop insurance, agricultural research and much more, it is a massive undertaking. The first farm bill was a milestone. Passed in 1933, it marked the beginning of legislative support for farmers and ranchers. Since then, Congress has passed 18
farm bills, most recently in 2018. Farm Bureau is closely involved in finding solutions as a divided Congress writes the next farm bill. For farmers and ranchers, ensuring a strong farm safety net is a top priority. Continuing access to affordable risk protection programs, such as crop insurance, is critical to our industry. For the first time ever, Missouri Farm Bureau formed a Farm Bill Task Force to examine our stance on various issues related to farm policy. Farm Bureau has been at the negotiating table for every farm bill. Another big one, passed in 1973, was the first “omnibus” farm bill, and the first with a nutrition title. The nutrition title has grown to serve 42 million people under the current law and is the largest of the 12 titles, currently taking 76 percent of the entire bill’s funding. The rising cost of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a concern in Congress, but in this day and age, a
farm bill cannot get past the finish line without nutrition programs. Speaking of big years, 1985 certainly fits the bill in more ways than one. The Kansas City Royals won the World Series over the St. Louis Cardinals, and Congress added significant provisions to the farm bill relating to conservation programs and environmental stewardship. This became the “Conservation Title” or “Title II” of the bill. This title is increasingly important as climate advocates ask for more climate-change initiatives. With the Administration’s focus on climate and sustainability, we anticipate lawmakers will be making tough decisions and big changes to the conservation title this year. Farm Bureau is asking
lawmakers to ensure critical programs stay in place while promoting voluntary, market-based incentive conservation programs. Farmers want options, not “one size fits all” mandates on their farms. Congress must act quickly as the current farm bill expires in September, but will their work extend into 2024? April’s monthly Ag Economy Barometer survey of 400 farmers by Purdue University’s Center for Commercial Agriculture found 40 percent of those responding think Congress will pass a farm bill by the end of September. Yet, 29 percent think it is somewhat unlikely or very unlikely. See Farm bill, Page 2
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NEWS • Princeton Post-Telegraph • 7
June 29, 2023
During drought, livestock produrcers urged to watch for hay scams MADELINE SIEREN Special to the Post-Telegraph
JEFFERSON CITY Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey and Missouri Department of Agriculture Director Chris Chinn warn Missouri farmers and ranchers about hay scammers. They want to help Missouri farmers and ranchers avoid falling victim to predatory schemes, and reinforce that the Missouri Attorney General’s Office is ready to assist Missourians who believe they have been scammed. The increased demand and low supply of hay caused by an unusually dry spring has resulted in a spike in hay prices, tempting scammers to take advantage of farmers in need. The fake ads, primarily posted on Facebook, do not appear
to target Missourians specifically but have led to at least a dozen complaints by Missouri farmers. When farmers respond to a fake ad, they are told to wire money into a bank account, after which the hay will be delivered. But farmers do not receive the promised hay. “Agriculture is vital to the success of our state, so I will always work to protect Missouri farmers and ranchers,” said Bailey. “We will pursue anyone who attempts to take advantage of hardworking Missourians, especially those who are doing everything they can to survive the ongoing drought.” “It is unfortunate that people are taking advantage of Missouri livestock producers during this difficult time of drought,”
said Chinn. “When feed costs are already high, the last thing producers need is to be scammed out of additional funds. On behalf of Missouri’s producers, I want to thank Attorney General Bailey for defending livestock owners who were compromised and helping to ensure these scams don’t continue.” “Times are tough. The extreme drought is forcing cattle producers to feed hay early and make difficult decisions,” said Missouri Cattlemen’s Association executive vice president Mike Deering. “People who would prey on families desperate for forage to take care of livestock need to feel the full heat of the law and be held accountable. Fortunately, we have an attorney general with no
tolerance for heartless thieves hell bent on taking advantage of farm and ranch families.” Bailey and Chinn provide the following tips to be vigilant when buying hay: • Know your seller. Make sure you are buying hay from someone you know or make use of the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s hay directory, especially before you provide any personal financial information, which can be viewed here: https://apps.mda. mo.gov/HayDirectory University of Missouri Extension also provides a forum for buying and selling hay, which can be viewed here: https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/forages/hay-market-listings Missouri State Parks
is offering emergency water and hay access for farmers in response to the worsening drought conditions, which can be
accessed here: https://mostateparks.com/drought • Do your research. If See Hay scams, Page 2
8 • Princeton Post-Telegraph • NEWS
June 29, 2023
Patrol offers advice for safe driving, boating Special to the Post-Telegraph
JEFFERSON CITY The July Fourth
holiday weekend is a great opportunity to enjoy one of Missouri’s recreational opportunities or a backyard barbecue. The Missouri State Highway Patrol, reminds Missouri’s travelers to make smart choices for a safe July Fourth holiday. Everyone should place safety at the top of their list when planning how to celebrate our nation’s freedoms. No matter how you decide to celebrate, your smartest choice is to follow all Missouri traffic and boating laws. During the 2022 counting period, 11 people were killed and 449 injured in Missouri over the holiday in 1,069 traffic crashes. Over the 2022 July Fourth holiday, troopers arrested 146 people for driving while intoxicated. In 2022, there were nine boating crashes, which
included five injuries and no fatalities. One person drowned during last year's July Fourth holiday. Troopers made 13 boating while intoxicated arrests over last year’s July Fourth holiday weekend. The 2023 counting period for the July Fourth holiday will be from 6 p.m., Friday, June 30, to 11:59 p.m., Tuesday, July 4. The Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort) and Operation Dry Water over the July Fourth holiday. Operation Dry Water specifically targets impaired vessel operators. All available troopers will be patrolling Missouri roadways and waterways to enforce traffic and boating laws, and offering assistance as needed. Missouri’s boaters are asked to do their part by remaining alert for other boats and swimmers, and
being courteous on the water. Never operate a vessel if you’ve consumed alcohol. Boaters need to be aware that it is illegal to discharge fireworks from a vessel. Leave all fireworks in a safe place on shore. Remember to share the waterway and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Life jackets save lives, so please wear them. Anyone needing assistance or who witnesses criminal activity while traveling on Missouri’s roadways or waterways can contact the nearest Highway Patrol troop headquarters by calling the Patrol Emergency Report Line at 1-800-5255555 or *55 on a cellular phone. Motorists may call 1-888-2756636 to check for road construction along their travel route.
Missouri Transfer of Wealth Study released Special to the Post-Telegraph
When individuals and families decide how to pass on their financial and physical assets, they are participating in the national transfer of wealth that in Missouri alone will amount to more than $114 billion over the next 10 years. That finding is included in the 2023 Missouri Transfer of Wealth Study, released Wednesday, June 14 by the Alliance of Missouri Community Foundations. The goal of the Alliance is to encourage Missouri residents to consider allocating at least 5% of the assets they will pass on after their lifetimes to benefit their communities and favorite charitable causes. If that happened, Missouri’s nonprofit and philanthropic organizations would receive more than $7.6 billion over the next 10 years to supplement other public and private funding sources that support areas like human serST. JOSEPH
vices, education, the arts, community amenities, recreation and the environment, faith, youth, animal welfare and more. Even if all that money were endowed, meaning a portion is spendable while the principal stays intact to grow over time, a payout of 5% would create $383 million in added resources annually. The 2023 Transfer of Wealth Study was conducted for the Alliance by the Center for Civic Research and Innovation in St. Louis, Mo. It uses a variety of data sources and demographic trends to estimate Missourians’ current net worth and the potential wealth to be transferred based on household size, life expectancy and wealth distribution. The full study is available at: cfnwmo. org and allmo.org. “The potential benefits to our communities and nonprofit sector would be staggering if Missourians adopted the ‘5%Solution’
to include their charitable intentions in their estate and financial planning,” said Mary Hinde, leader of the AMCF and president/CEO of The Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri, based in St. Joseph. “Missourians are known for
their ‘show-me’ determination. This study shows us what is possible if we all give a little to support the greater good.” The 2023 study updates the original study from See Transfer of Wealth, Page 2
COMMISSION
MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION
Report taken from minutes of meetings of the Mercer County Commission. All votes are unanimous unless otherwise noted.
Tuesday, June 20 • County Clerk Judy Hamilton appointed Zachary Martin to serve as acting presiding commissioner in Jerry Allen’s absence. • June 12 meeting minutes were approved. • Bills were approved and paid. • Time sheets and the June 15 payroll were approved. • Commissioners and Hamilton signed a certified copy or order authorizing Assessor Dana Widner to destroy by shredding sales notices and change orders per the Secretary of State’s Office retention schedule, per Section 109.201-5 RSMo. • Commissioners and Hamilton signed a certified coy of order authorizing Collector/Treasurer Susan Moore to pay the following: *$27.25 to the Missouri State Highway Patrol for a criminal records search (money taken
from Sheriff’s Revolving Fund #35); *$311.90 to Tiger Commissary Services (money taken from Jail Commissary Fund #49); *$7,180 to Mercer Rural Rental Senior Housing for guttering, and $6,000 to the Mercer County Council on Aging Inc. for food, consumables and meal delivery (money taken from Senior Citizens Services Tax Fund #46, per request of the board). • Martin signed Progress Invoice #13 for BRO-B065 (39) Bridge #2550002 Henke/Indigo in the amount of $100,493.06 for construction costs. • Dale Phillips of Phillips Insurance and Jason Powers with Legacy Brokers spoke with commissioners. Commissioners went into closed session for legal and/or personnel matters at 10:11 a.m. Phillips and Powers were in attendance. Commissioners came out of closed session at 10:47 a.m., with no decisions announced.
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NEWS • Princeton Post-Telegraph • 9
June 29, 2023
Agriculture, tourism share a unique bond in Missouri and nationally DAVIN ALTHOFF Special to the Post-Telegraph
JEFFERSON CITY Is your family looking to vacation close to home but wanting to find fun family activities that incorporate various attractions and tours? Are you interested in exploring Missouri’s outdoors and its multiple state parks? Are you into art and history? Perhaps your hobby centers around entertainment, food and drink? There are so many categories of fun to consider, but agriculture plays a part. That’s because the number one industry in the Show Me state, agriculture, offers entertainment and fun, even if you don’t realize it! When paired together, agriculture and tourism form “agritourism,” one of the fastest growing sectors in the entertain-
ment industry. As more farmers and ranchers seek new revenue streams to bring family members back to the farm, agritourism has created a popular option. The creativity of our farmers and ranchers to serve and entertain is beyond belief. From working farms and farmer’s markets, you-pick orchards and berry farms, and corn mazes and pumpkin patches, these experiences can rival your favorite theme park. These mark just a few ways everyone can enjoy Missouri agriculture. Experience the industry with friends while sipping wine at some of the best wineries in the Midwest, or surprise your significant other with a night at a farm bed and breakfast. There are no limits to what agritourism offers, and our
farmers and ranchers are constantly expanding the possibilities. Are you looking for entertainment ideas in the country? Missouri Farm Bureau’s website has a detailed directory featuring several hundred Missouri-owned-and-operated agritourism businesses. Every summer, Missouri Farm Bureau hosts our annual Missouri Agritourism Conference in partnership with the Missouri Department of Agriculture. This year’s event will be held July 1618 in Excelsior Springs. The conference offers a glance into the variety of agritourism opportunities in the area. A special day tour of select venues culminates with a farmto-table dinner and wine pairing with the Missouri Wine & Grape Board. If you’re interested in start-
ing or expanding an agritourism business, experts will be on hand with a variety of resources to help you attain your goals. But for those just looking for fun, check out the
amazing destinations on our website at mofb.org before you schedule your next vacation or fun family activity. I’m confident you will find a location within our amazing state
to meet your entertainment aspirations. Davin Althoff serves as director of marketing and commodities for Missouri Farm Bureau.
Thomas recognizes EMTs in memory of his mother
Choose your friends very carefully DR. GLENN MOLLETTE Special to the Post-Telegraph
A friend will do his best to prevent you from driving off a cliff. Your enemy will give you directions to the cliff and happily watch you plunge to your destruction. A friend cares enough to caution you about financial decisions or bad investments. Your enemy will be glad to see you lose your money. Your friend will warn you about a snake in the NEWBURGH,
Ind.
path. Your enemy will tell you to enjoy your walk. A friend cares enough to help. Your enemy will let you sink. Thirty years ago, I made a move. I had a house payment in one town and an apartment rent in my new location. I had two car payments, a very sick wife and two small children. The financial burden was tough. I met with a group of eight to 10 men every Thursday morning at 6 a.m. for prayer. These men prayed
for me but came to me one day and said, “We’re going to collect $300 to $400.a month to give to you until you sell your house.” I was surprised, thankful, but declined the offer. They insisted. One man spoke up and said, See Friends, Page 10
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Princeton resident Kenny Thomas recently took lunch and pens to the staff at the Mercer County Ambulance Dstrict. “I grew up around the EMTs while my mom managed Bristol Manor for 16 years, and then they cared for her until her final day,” Thomas said. “I came to see they don't get enough recognition, so now I’m having an annual Florence Thomas EMT Day in memory of my mom. We brought them lunch and ink pens to say thanks for what they do and will every year from now on.” From left: EMT Shaun DeVore, MCAD director Doug Priest, Thomas, and EMTs Brandi Ury and Jerrod Todd.
10 • Princeton Post-Telegraph • NEWS
June 29, 2023
I’m approaching 65 - should I claim my SS? RUSSELL GLOOR Special to the Post-Telegraph WASHINGTON,
DC
Dear Rusty: I am fast approaching 65 (in August) and plan to continue working full time. I would like to know the implications of that, and about drawing Social Security. Same question for my husband who is past his full retirement age (he will be 67 this year) and he continues to work full time. Signed: Still Working Dear Still Working: Married couples should always coordinate their retirement strategy, and you’re very smart to do so. Born in 1958, your full retirement age (FRA) for Social Security purposes is 66 years and 8 months. Your FRA is the point at which your earnings from work no longer affect your Social Security benefits, but if you claim at age 65 and continue to work full time, you will be limited to how much you can earn before they take away some (or perhaps all) of your benefits. Here’s what will happen if you claim Social Security (SS) to start in August when you are 65: • Your SS retirement benefit will be permanently reduced by 11% (you’ll get 89% of your FRA entitlement). Your monthly amount will only change thereafter due to Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA). • If you start your benefits in August you will
be subject to an earnings limit - either a monthly limit of $1,770 for the remaining months of the year or the 2023 annual limit of $21,240. If the monthly limit is exceeded you aren’t entitled to benefits for that month, or if the annual limit is exceeded they will take back benefits equal to $1 for every $2 over the annual limit. Social Security will use whichever method yields the smallest penalty. • Beginning in 2024, you will be subject only to Social Security’s annual earnings limit, which will be something more than the 2023 annual limit of $21,240. If you exceed the 2024 (or 2025) annual limit, Social Security will take away $1 in benefits for every $2 you are over the limit (half of what you exceed the limit by). The annual limit will be in effect until you reach your full retirement age of 66 years and 8 months in April 2026. Since your husband has already reached his FRA, working full time will not negatively affect his monthly Social Security benefits if he chooses to claim his SS benefits now. However, if he hasn’t yet claimed your husband is already earning Delayed Retirement Credits (DRCs) which will increase his benefit when he later claims. DRCs are earned monthly (.667% per month; 8% per year) and can be
earned up to age 70 when maximum SS benefit is attained. For your husband, his age 70 benefit would be 29% more than he was entitled to at his FRA. Whether it is wise to wait longer to claim depends on life expectancy, but break even age is about 83 for those who wait until 70 to claim (vs. claiming at FRA). FYI, average life expectancy for a man your husband’s current age is about 84; for you about 87. Since you are both still working full time, be aware that - depending on your combined income from all sources - your Social Security benefits will become part of your taxable income. As a married couple both working full time, your combined income will likely be over the $44,000 threshold after which income tax will be levied on up to 85% of your Social Security benefits received during the tax year (using your normal IRS tax rate). I suggest you consider the income tax implications
of claiming Social Security while you are still working full time. You did not ask about Medicare, but if you (and your husband) now have “creditable” healthcare coverage from your employer (“creditable” is a group plan with at least 20 participants) you can defer enrolling in Medicare Part B until your employer healthcare coverage ends, thus avoiding the Medicare Part B premium while you are working. This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or financial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC (Association of Mature American Citizens) Foundation’s staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit the website amacfoundation.org/ programs/social-security-advisory) or send an email to ssadvisor@amacfoundation.org.
Fist bumps, anyone? David Rush may not have broken the most Guinness World Records; that honor belongs to 68-year-old Ashrita Furman who, thus far, has won no less than 600 records, including the record for breaking the most Guinness Records. But Rush has broken more than 250 records thus far including the record for the most fist bumps, which he achieved with the help of Howie Mandel, the host of the America’s Got Talent TV show. Together they racked up 380 fist bumps in 30 seconds on a recent episode of the show.
Friends From Page 9 “We’re not going to sit here and watch you sink.” I was very close to just giving my house back to the bank, but fortunately I was able to sell it eventually and gained enough money to make a down payment on a house in my new location. Your friend may not be able to save you. However, your friend will try to save you from sinking. Your enemy will find humor in your demise. Your friend will not barrage you with your past mistakes. A real friend puts the past behind and moves forward. The only good thing about remembering past mistakes is so you won’t repeat them. Your enemy delights in rehashing ancient history when you failed, divorced, folded, went crazy and more. Your friend will focus with you on today. They will celebrate your current life and activities. The Bible says the devil is like a roaring lion seeking whom he might devour. Often, his most effective work is discouraging us and immobilizing our lives. The work of God is forgiving, forgetting, cleansing, burying and looking ahead to the goal line. The work of evil is to take you back to your old sins and failures. The Bible talks about forgetting those things which are behind. The scriptures teach that God through Christ cleanses us of all our sins. He buries our sins in the depths of the sea to be remembered no more. God doesn’t remember them, so why do you worry about a failure that happened 100 years ago? Remember Lot’s wife? She looked back and turned into a pillar of salt. Looking back turns us into salt or immobilizes us from going forward. You can’t go forward looking over your shoulder. The Bible says press toward the goal line. This means you look forward. Choose who you spend time your time with very carefully. Live looking forward and avoid those who want to keep you looking back. Dr. Glenn Mollette is a graduate of numerous schools including Georgetown College, Southern Seminary and Lexington Seminary, all in Kentucky. He is the author of 13 books, and his column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.
OPINION • Princeton Post-Telegraph • 11
June 29, 2023
Of course, politicians are sinners - just like us DR. GLENN MOLLETTE Special to the Post-Telegraph
Are the presidential candidates all sinners? This could be a potential question for an upcoming town hall meeting or debate. Answers by the candidates would be interesting. Would any candidate admit to being a sinner? Would some of them deny ever having sinned? Would they say something like, “I sinned a long time ago.” Or, “I might have sinned some as a young adult.” If any would admit to having sin in their lives, would they be comfortable explaining which sins they have committed? Probably not because any admission would become fodder for the other candidates to beat on them throughout the campaign. Of course, the media would freeze the admission into print to be replayed multiple times. What would they admit to? Do political candidates ever admit to being wrong? Doing wrong things and saying wrong words sometimes are accidental but which of them would be willing to admit to even an accidental moral or ethical slip? The truth is that all the Presidential candidates are sinners. If they say they have never sinned then they are liars. The Bible says “If we say we have not sinned we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us,” (1 John 1:9). Another verse says “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23). Jesus Christ is God’s measuring stick. He’s the only human the Bible says who ever lived without sin. According to the verse of scripture we have come short of Jesus Christ. The bottom line is that we are all sinners. Thus, so are all the presidential candidates. Politicians like most all humans are more comfortable pointing out the failures and NEWBURGH, Ind.
MOLLETTE sins of the opposing candidate. We all do this to some extent. We point out the wrong things that others are doing. This makes us feel a little more righteous. However, when we point our finger at someone else, we always have three more pointing back at us. How could there ever be a town hall meeting or political debate without blasting the opposition and condemning every movement the opponent ever made? In our world it would be a difficult achievement. Most of the Republican candidates have already been criticized for not condemning former President Donald Trump enough. Hopefully in the myriad upcoming television political speeches and discussions we will hear more about what each candidate has done and what he or she will do if elected. Unfortunately, I am not really interested in spending endless hours listening to political rhetoric. Summer is here in its full glory. Daylight in my area starts about 5 a.m. and lasts until almost 9 p.m. I want to be outside walking, biking and enjoying life. I’ll review all the candidates and have my voting decision made by election day. Between now and then they can hash out and beat out their failures and sins among themselves. Dr. Glenn Mollette is a graduate of numerous schools including Georgetown College, Southern Seminary and Lexington Seminary, all in Kentucky. He is the author of 13 books. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.
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MERCER COUNTY 4-DAY WEATHER
National Weather Service - Pleasant Hill/Kansas City, Mo. Time of forecast: 7 a.m. Monday, June 26 Thursday, June 29: Mostly sunny, hot; 97/73 Friday, June 30: Partly sunny, 50% chance of rain; 90/69 Saturday, July 1: Mostly sunny, 40% chance rain; 87/65 Sunday, June 2: Sunny; 88 Forecasts reflect daytime high and overnight low temperatures. Weather forecasts change often. Check local radio, weather radio, or the NWS website (www.weather.gov) for the most recent updates.
PRINCETON POST-TELEGRAPH MISSION STATEMENT (What we try to do every week) “Gentlemen, we are going to relentlessly chase perfection, knowing full well we will not catch it because nothing is perfect. But we are going to relentlessly chase it because in the process WE WILL CATCH EXCELLENCE.” Coach Vince Lombardi
THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment for religion, or prohibiting the free exercise there of; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people to peacefully assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
I don’t fear global warning, but I do fear a global government PAUL HAMBY Special to the Post-Telegraph
MAYSVILLE, Mo. I don’t fear global warming, I fear a global government quietly installed at the national, state and local level while no one realizes the loss of liberty. At the end of World War II, the globalists surrendered, but they did not give up. They devised a long term plan to win back control of the world. In 1957, Ayn Rand warned of what was coming; “We are fast approaching the stage of the ultimate inversion: the stage where the government is free to do anything it pleases, while the citizens may act only by permission; which is the stage of the darkest periods of human history, the stage of rule by brute force.” The globalists took over the United Nations (UN) and updated their strategies. Their plan, called Agenda 21 in 1992, went public with globalist George Herbert Walker Bush’s speech for his vision of a “New World Order.” Agenda 21 became Agenda 2030 and is now called the Great Reset. Here are five attacks on individual rights and liberty from the Great Reset: • Promotes “growth” via central planning. When you see the words “sustainable development” and “central planning” you can trace the policy back to the UN’s Agenda 21. Central planning is key to fhe Great Reset plan for America. • The end of private property rights. In a 2016 essay for the World Economic Forum (WEF), Ida Auken predicted that in 2030 individuals will not own a house, a car, appli-
LIBERTY THOUGHTS ances or clothes, instead you will be renting everything. The essay also predicts mass surveillance and a society split in two. In an intriguing twist, in 2018, the WEF did a simulation of a worldwide catastrophic pandemic and predicted (or planned?) the rise of the World Health Organization, mass vaccinations, biometric surveillance, lockdowns, economic chaos, manipulation of social media, and widespread riots. The World Economic Forum and the United Nations have a strategic partnership to accelerate the implementation of the sustainable development agenda of The Great Reset. • Green energy. In Missouri, we are seeing a fast paced transition towards producing electricity from natural gas instead of coal. Both fuels are carbon based. In 2022, natural gas cost nearly three times as much as coal per BTU produced for electric production. Clean coal is a cheaper alternative in a free market. The WEF is financing
the UN climate change agenda. • Money. The Great Reset goal is a government owned digital currency, the elimination of cash, and expanded use of traceable and controllable payment methods such as debit cards. • Reduced Inequalities. You can not legislate equality and you can not use the force of government to create equality. However, as a stated goal, social justice becomes the reason to promote redistribution of wealth with such policies as reparations and foreign aid. The only thing we can and should do is guarantee equal opportunities, not equal outcomes. Redistribution of wealth steals from those who produce and removes incentive to work from those who do not produce. In 2013, the Missouri General Assembly passed a bill banning the implementation of the UN Agenda 21. Democrat Gov. Jay Nixon vetoed the bill on July 2, 2013. Nixon said that SB265 would have local governments “needlessly chasing imaginary See I don’t fear, Page 2
12 • Princeton Post-Telegraph
June 29, 2023