Bart Brackman, one of four owners of LAG Industries LLC in La Monte, disassembles a panel display at the close of the two-day 2017 Ag Expo Saturday afternoon on the Missouri State Fairgrounds. Brackman said the company sells livestock panels and equipment. He added that the Ag Expo was a “good” show this year. The annual event is sponsored by the Central Missouri Ag Club.

Kyle Jones, co-owner of Jones Brothers Agri Service in La Monte, watches his daughter Amelia Jones play inside a cattle chute at his vendor booth during the 2017 Ag Expo Saturday inside the Mathewson Exhibition Center. Jones said the business specializes in feed, livestock equipment, seed and trailers.

Buddy the Tyson Chicken was on hand to entertain patrons Friday at the 2017 Ag Expo.

Patrons from around Missouri view the many exhibits at the Ag Expo on Friday. The Ag Expo continues Saturday in the Mathewson Exhibition Center on the Missouri State Fairgrounds.

Ginny Zinck, of Sedalia, stands with her vendor booth for her business, JW Creations, Friday afternoon at the 2017 Ag Expo.

Patty Wood, left, and Suzette Carter help sell prime rib sandwiches, hamburgers and cheeseburgers to hungry patrons at the Ag Expo Friday. The food was prepared with beef from the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association.

Bart Brackman, one of four owners of LAG Industries LLC in La Monte, disassembles a panel display at the close of the two-day 2017 Ag Expo Saturday afternoon on the Missouri State Fairgrounds. Brackman said the company sells livestock panels and equipment. He added that the Ag Expo was a “good” show this year. The annual event is sponsored by the Central Missouri Ag Club.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020617AgShow-1.jpgBart Brackman, one of four owners of LAG Industries LLC in La Monte, disassembles a panel display at the close of the two-day 2017 Ag Expo Saturday afternoon on the Missouri State Fairgrounds. Brackman said the company sells livestock panels and equipment. He added that the Ag Expo was a “good” show this year. The annual event is sponsored by the Central Missouri Ag Club. Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Kyle Jones, co-owner of Jones Brothers Agri Service in La Monte, watches his daughter Amelia Jones play inside a cattle chute at his vendor booth during the 2017 Ag Expo Saturday inside the Mathewson Exhibition Center. Jones said the business specializes in feed, livestock equipment, seed and trailers.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020617AgShow-2.jpgKyle Jones, co-owner of Jones Brothers Agri Service in La Monte, watches his daughter Amelia Jones play inside a cattle chute at his vendor booth during the 2017 Ag Expo Saturday inside the Mathewson Exhibition Center. Jones said the business specializes in feed, livestock equipment, seed and trailers. Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Buddy the Tyson Chicken was on hand to entertain patrons Friday at the 2017 Ag Expo.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_AgExpo2-1.jpgBuddy the Tyson Chicken was on hand to entertain patrons Friday at the 2017 Ag Expo. Tim Epperson | Democrat

Patrons from around Missouri view the many exhibits at the Ag Expo on Friday. The Ag Expo continues Saturday in the Mathewson Exhibition Center on the Missouri State Fairgrounds.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_AgExpo5-1.jpgPatrons from around Missouri view the many exhibits at the Ag Expo on Friday. The Ag Expo continues Saturday in the Mathewson Exhibition Center on the Missouri State Fairgrounds. Tim Epperson | Democrat

Ginny Zinck, of Sedalia, stands with her vendor booth for her business, JW Creations, Friday afternoon at the 2017 Ag Expo.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_AgExpo8-1.jpgGinny Zinck, of Sedalia, stands with her vendor booth for her business, JW Creations, Friday afternoon at the 2017 Ag Expo. Tim Epperson | Democrat

Patty Wood, left, and Suzette Carter help sell prime rib sandwiches, hamburgers and cheeseburgers to hungry patrons at the Ag Expo Friday. The food was prepared with beef from the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_AgExpo11-1.jpgPatty Wood, left, and Suzette Carter help sell prime rib sandwiches, hamburgers and cheeseburgers to hungry patrons at the Ag Expo Friday. The food was prepared with beef from the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association. Tim Epperson | Democrat

The Sedalia City Council will be reviewing two MoDOT grants for projects at the Sedalia Regional Airport during tonight’s meeting.

Council will be reviewing three ordinances relating to airport construction.

First is an ordinance approving and accepting a state block grant agreement with the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for design apron construction and north hangar expansion at the Sedalia Regional Airport. The MoDOT grant is for $104,085 and the city’s match is $11,565.

The next is an ordinance approving and accepting a state block grant agreement with the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for Runway 5/23 study, airport layout plan update and environmental assessment for runway improvements at the Sedalia Regional Airport. The grant is for $108,090 with a city match of $12,010.

Council will also discuss a current airport project by reviewing a change order from Emery Sapp & Sons for $1,408.89 for the taxiway construction project at the Sedalia Regional Airport.

During the meeting Mayor Stephen Galliher will present a service award to Senior Equipment Operator Brandon Hill of the Sanitation Department for five years of service.

During the meeting council will also:

• Review an ordinance amending Section 8-181 of the Fee Schedule of the Code of Ordinances by establishing various fees at the Sedalia Animal Shelter. These fees are recommended by the Animal Shelter Board.

• Review an ordinance amending Ordinance N. 10340 by approving and accepting a new agreement with Thompson Hills Animal Clinic for veterinary services for the Sedalia Animal Shelter. According to information in the meeting packet, this new agreement is necessary because of new ownership at the clinic, but it is essentially the same agreement and terms as the current agreement.

• Review an ordinance amending Ordinance No. 9940 relating to amending an existing classification and job description for Animal Services Manager for the Police Department (from exempt to non-exempt). According to the meeting packet, this is proposed due to recent federal regulations and by changing the position to non-exempt the manager has an opportunity to earn overtime pay.

• Review an ordinance amending Appendix A of the Personnel Regulations Manual pertaining to FLSA Exempt Employee Classification List (removing Animal Shelter Manager from exempt status).

• Review a records destruction request from the Police Department Administrative Services Bureau.

• Review an ordinance amending Sections 28-50 and 28-51 of the Code of Ordinances adopting revisions to Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act Policy. According to the meeting packet, this is required in order to proceed with planned local Community Development Block Grant applications with which the city is assisting.

• Review an ordinance amending Ordinance No. 9940 relating to amending an existing classification and job description for Building Maintenance Supervisor for the Building Maintenance Department. According to the meeting packet, this is a planned internal reorganization within the department.

• Review Change Order No. 1 from Poort Excavating for $21,629.20 for the Storm Drainage Improvements Project — Project Areas 18A, 18B and 20. According to the meeting packet, this is related to work located at West 20th Street and Warren Avenue, but the total cost will still be under budget.

• Review an ordinance amending Section 5.4(G), Paragraph 2 of the Personnel Regulations relating to step increases applicable to certain employee classifications. According to the meeting packet, this is related to the public safety pay plan and further clarification.

The Sedalia City Council pre-meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the mayor’s conference room with the regular meeting immediately following at 7 p.m. in council chambers at the Municipal Building, 200 S. Osage Ave. For more information, call 827-3000.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_Sedalia-city-seal-1-.jpg

The mood was not unlike an August gathering on the fairgrounds, with 16 teams from nine towns meeting to celebrate milestones and compete in a tournament at State Fair Community College in Sedalia.

Day two of the 2017 Kaysinger Conference Basketball Tournament Sponsored By W-K Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac began at 10 a.m., Saturday Feb. 4 at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center.

Sacred Heart boy’s basketball, seeking its fourth consecutive tournament championship, started the day with an 80-33 victory over Otterville. Trent Lyles scored 20 points, Colby Young added 18 and Micah Tanguay finished with 16 points.

The Eagles advanced to Saturday’s game with a 75-65 victory against the better-seeded Tipton at Smithton High School in Smithton. Head coach Scott Gemes said Otterville is locked in on the consolation trophy.

“As the nine seed coming in, we’ve already beat expectations,” Gemes said. “Now our goal is to come out with a trophy.”

In a 14-point performance, senior Eagles guard Jake Neal scored his 2,000th career point on a free-throw.

Neal said despite the score, his benchmark moment was exciting.

“It’s still a great experience,” Neal said. “I’ve had a lot of support. A lot of people care about me. That really contributes to how great this experience is.”

The top-seeded girl’s team also advanced when Tipton shut down Otterville, 55-22. Abby Backes had 20 points and five assists, while Alyson Brant scored nine points with 12 rebounds.

In the third quarter, Tipton’s full-court press limited the Lady Eagles to two points — an Ava Norman field goal.

Smithton provided the day’s only two upsets. The boy’s team lost in overtime 77-70, while the girl’s team defeated Stover, the defending tournament champs, 44-35.

Ryan Dove led Green Ridge with 31 points and scored his 1,000th career point in overtime.

Green Ridge head coach Jason Cannon said two close wins and an overtime loss earlier in the season primed the Tigers for a poise overtime period.

“We’ve been in a lot of close games this year,” Cannon said. “A lot closer games than we’ve had in the last couple years. So, our late-game situations, we’ve had a chance to work on this year.

“Our kids understand, we can’t walk into a gym and expect people to lay down for us.”

The Smithton Lady Tigers were steady amid Stover’s pressure in its 9-point victory.

Down 10-8 after the first quarter, Smithton allowed just two points before halftime and led 23-12 at the break.

Each hitting a trio of threes, Juno Nausa scored 11 and Hannah Eisenbarth scored 10 for Smithton.

Windsor boy’s and girl’s basketball took losses to Lincoln and Cole Camp, respectively.

The No. 2 seed Cardinals ran away with a 58-29 victory against the Greyhounds, getting points from nine players. Lincoln was up 31-9 at halftime and Boone Kroenke led the team with 17 points.

Cole Camp defeated the Lady Greyhounds 43-26 in the late game, and advance to face Sacred Heart in the semifinals.

The Lady Gremlins scored 23 points in the fourth quarter of a 51-40 win against Lincoln. Elayna Ebers led Sacred Heart with 16 points. McKenna Beeler and Grace Goodwin scored 14 apiece.

Sloan Swearngin led Lincoln with 12 points.

The Kaysinger Conference Tournament continues 6 p.m. Monday at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia with La Monte and Green Ridge girl’s basketball. Northwest and La Monte’s boys are scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m.

SCOREBOARD

BOYS

Sacred Heart 80, Otterville 33

Green Ridge 77, Smithton 70 (OT)

Cole Camp 69, Stover 47

Lincoln 58, Windsor 29

GIRLS

Tipton 55, Otterville 22

Smithton 33, Stover 35

Sacred Heart 51, Lincoln 40

Cole Camp 43, Windsor 26

Brooklyn Pace finishes a layup Saturday, Feb. 4 during a 55-22 victory over Otterville in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament. Tipton advances to face Smithton 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_DSC_8581.jpgBrooklyn Pace finishes a layup Saturday, Feb. 4 during a 55-22 victory over Otterville in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament. Tipton advances to face Smithton 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia. Alex Agueros | Democrat

Camren Worthley goes up with a jumper Saturday at the Kaysinger Conference Tournament in Sedalia during a 69-47 Stover loss to the Cole Camp Bluebirds.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_DSC_8968.jpgCamren Worthley goes up with a jumper Saturday at the Kaysinger Conference Tournament in Sedalia during a 69-47 Stover loss to the Cole Camp Bluebirds. Alex Agueros | Democrat

Madison Brown calls for the ball Saturday, Feb. 4 at the Kaysinger Conference Tournament during a 51-40 victory over Stover. Smithton advances to face Tipton 6 p.m. Tuesday in Sedalia. Stover plays Otterville 4:20 p.m. Tuesday in the consolation bracket.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_DSC_8848.jpgMadison Brown calls for the ball Saturday, Feb. 4 at the Kaysinger Conference Tournament during a 51-40 victory over Stover. Smithton advances to face Tipton 6 p.m. Tuesday in Sedalia. Stover plays Otterville 4:20 p.m. Tuesday in the consolation bracket. Alex Agueros | Democrat

Audrey Williams splits Stover defenders in an attempt to break the Lady Bulldog press on an inbounds pass Saturday in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_DSC_8870.jpgAudrey Williams splits Stover defenders in an attempt to break the Lady Bulldog press on an inbounds pass Saturday in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia. Alex Agueros | Democrat

Brendan Bauer dribbles around Cole Camp’s Trace Brandes during a 69-47 Stover loss Saturday in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament. Stover faces Windsor 9 p.m. Thursday in Sedalia. Cole Camp advanced to face Lincoln in the semifinals 7:30 p.m. Thursday.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_DSC_8920.jpgBrendan Bauer dribbles around Cole Camp’s Trace Brandes during a 69-47 Stover loss Saturday in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament. Stover faces Windsor 9 p.m. Thursday in Sedalia. Cole Camp advanced to face Lincoln in the semifinals 7:30 p.m. Thursday. Alex Agueros | Democrat

Grace Draffen boxes out Alyson Brant in a Kaysinger Conference Tournament game Saturday. After a 55-22 loss to Tipton, the Lady Eagles face Stover 4:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_DSC_8589.jpgGrace Draffen boxes out Alyson Brant in a Kaysinger Conference Tournament game Saturday. After a 55-22 loss to Tipton, the Lady Eagles face Stover 4:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia. Alex Agueros | Democrat

Will Tripp goes up for a putback attempt Saturday, Feb. 4 in a 77-70 overtime loss to Green Ridge in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament. Smithton hosts Otterville 4:40 p.m. Thursday at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia, while Green Ridge advances to challenge Sacred Heart 6 p.m. Thursday.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_DSC_8668.jpgWill Tripp goes up for a putback attempt Saturday, Feb. 4 in a 77-70 overtime loss to Green Ridge in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament. Smithton hosts Otterville 4:40 p.m. Thursday at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia, while Green Ridge advances to challenge Sacred Heart 6 p.m. Thursday. Alex Agueros | Democrat

Alex Rebikh flies to the basket for a layup Saturday, Feb. 4 during a 77-70 overtime victory over Smithton at the Kaysinger Conference Tournament. He finished with 12 points.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_DSC_8729.jpgAlex Rebikh flies to the basket for a layup Saturday, Feb. 4 during a 77-70 overtime victory over Smithton at the Kaysinger Conference Tournament. He finished with 12 points. Alex Agueros | Democrat

MEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Three Rivers Community College 83, State Fair Roadrunners 72

Despite four players in double-digits, the Roadrunners fell 83-72 to the Three Rivers Raiders in Poplar Bluff on Saturday.

Onteral Woodson, Jr. led SFCC with 18 points, Tyrone Gibbs scored 13, Corey Mendez had 12 and Amir Smith added 11.

State Fair (11-13) return to Sedalia 7:30 p.m. Wednesday to host Missouri State University – West Plains.

WOMEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Three Rivers Community College 75, State Fair Lady Roadrunners 64

Maya Brewer led the Lady Roadrunners with 16 points Saturday during a 75-64 road loss to Three Rivers Community College.

Ahjana Oakes and Ren’Cia Rolling had 11 points apiece. The Lady Roadrunners were out-rebounded 32-24.

SFCC (14-7) play again 3 p.m. Saturday at Arkansas Baptist College.

This list is a sampling of crime in Sedalia and the surrounding area. Information is taken from official police reports, which do not necessarily contain statements from all parties involved in each case.

Sedalia Police Department

Arrests

Feb. 4

8:04 p.m.: Mary Elizabeth Schlobohm, 46, of Marshall, was arrested near the intersection of West 16th Street and South Grand Avenue on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving with a suspended or revoked license.

Feb. 3

12:40 p.m.: Hayden Roher, 22, of Sedalia, was arrested in the 1200 block of South Limit Avenue on a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

12:40 p.m.: Jordan D. Rhodes, 29, of Smithton, was arrested in the 1200 block of South Limit Avenue on a charge of driving with a suspended license.

Pettis County Sheriff’s Office

Arrests

Feb. 4

12:54 a.m.: Jolene M. Balke, 39, of Cole Camp, was arrested in Pettis County on charges of driving while intoxicated and no insurance.

5:50 p.m.: De’Ante Marshall, 22, of Sedalia, was arrested in the area on Main Street Road and Quisenberry Street in Pettis County, on charges of failure to register a motor vehicle with the Department of Revenue, no seat belt, no proof of insurance and driving while intoxicated.

Missouri State Highway Patrol

Arrests

Feb. 5

1:04 a.m.: Jennifer D. Mallicoat, 28, of Warrenton, was arrested in Johnson County on charges of driving while intoxicated and driving without headlights.

2 a.m: Ashley D. Duffy, 26, of Warrensburg, was arrested in Johnson County on charges of driving while intoxicated and driving with no headlights.

10:05 a.m.: Ralph C. Minter, 52, of Spotsylvania, Virginia, was arrested in Saline County on charges of possession of a controlled substance and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

5:28 a.m.: Zachary T. Foreman, 22, of Windsor, was arrested in Henry County on charges of driving while intoxicated and careless and imprudent driving resulting in a crash

Feb. 3

2:18 a.m.: Johnathan T. Meierhofer, 24, of Warrensburg, was arrested in Johnson County on charges of driving while intoxicated and lane violation.

10:40 a.m.: Timothy N. Lynch, 54, of Raleigh, North Carolina, was arrested in Saline County on charges of possession of a controlled substance, driving with a suspended license and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Smiles, giggles, dancing and silent film reenactments kept children at St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Sedalia busy during a special interactive performance Monday morning by renowned professional ragtime pianist Frederick Hodges.

Hodges, of San Francisco, is this year’s artist-in-residence for the Scott Joplin International Ragtime Foundation. St. Paul’s was the first stop in a week-long performance schedule featuring 11 different area schools. Hodges will also play accompaniment for a silent film event Thursday evening at the Hayden Liberty Center for the Arts in downtown Sedalia.

“I’ll be accompanying the wonderful silent film called ‘Girl Shy,’ by Harold Lloyd,” he told the Democrat before his performance. “That’s going to be a lot of fun.’

Hodges began taking piano lessons in first grade and began playing ragtime in second grade. His interest in silent films also began early.

“When I was a child for Christmas, I was given a little projector,” he said. “It came with some silent movies, Charlie Chaplin and Laurel and Hardy. But, it was all silent, so I just started playing the piano along with it. I was like 10, and somehow it turned into a career.”

Hodges added that he now travels all over the country playing at silent film festivals.

“In the Bay area, where I live there is an actual silent film theatre,” he added. “So, I work there. They show silent movies every Saturday night but they have several pianists they work with, and I’m so busy that I’m there usually twice a month.”

He noted that he never expected to become a professional pianist.

“I had wonderful piano teachers who wanted me to become a concert pianist,” Hodges said. “So, that was my original goal. When I was about 20 I thought ‘what are the chances that I’m going to be one of the lucky five pianists in the world who makes money at it?’

“So, I gave it up for awhile, and while I was in college I got a job playing the piano with the dance orchestra,” he added. “I played 1920s dance music and it turned into a big career. Despite my thought that I couldn’t make a living at it, I did.”

Hodges plays ragtime and music of the 1920s and ’30s and he’s performed at the Scott Joplin International Ragtime Festival for 11 or 12 years.

On Monday at St. Paul’s, Hodges delighted students by interacting with them. Hodges told the children that ragtime began in Sedalia and that it comes from diverse sources, one being march music. To illustrate this he selected six students and had them march down the aisle as he played.

He added that ragtime also incorporates European polka music and he asked for four students to help him illustrate. As he played a polka on the piano four students held hands and danced in a circle.

For the third element of ragtime Hodges noted that American blues music is fundamental in its style. He selected a student to help him sing “I’ve got the Sedalia blues,” for the audience.

Adding to the smiles Hodges also had some students act out a silent film as he played the piano, and he asked the crowd what types of pets they had at home. To add to the humor he played the rag “Aba Daba Honeymoon” about a “monkey who fell in love with a baboon and got married.”

To conclude his concert Hodges played the “Lion Tamer Rag,” telling the students he knew five rags about pandas, 12 about cats, one about a snake and 12 about chipmunks.

Scott Joplin International Ragtime Foundation President Kathleen Boswell told the children that Hodges didn’t need sheet music to play his performance.

“Music is in his head and in his fingers,” she said.

Hodges will be visiting area schools this week as the Scott Joplin artist-in-residence and he will give a special live performance at 7:30 p.m. Thursday for the silent film event “Girl Shy” at the Hayden Liberty Center for the Arts. Tickets are available at LCAA, 111 W. Fifth St., by calling 827-3228, via email at info@lcaasedalia.com, or at www.lcaasedalia.com. Tickets will also be available the night of the show.

Scott Joplin International Ragtime Foundation Artist-in-Residence Frederick Hodges, of San Francisco, receives giggles from students of St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Sedalia Monday morning. Hodges gave a ragtime concert inside St. Paul’s Lutheran Church for students and told them he would play a rag about a monkey who married a baboon called “Aba Daba Honeymoon.”

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020717ScottJopinArtist-1-1.jpgScott Joplin International Ragtime Foundation Artist-in-Residence Frederick Hodges, of San Francisco, receives giggles from students of St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Sedalia Monday morning. Hodges gave a ragtime concert inside St. Paul’s Lutheran Church for students and told them he would play a rag about a monkey who married a baboon called “Aba Daba Honeymoon.” Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Pianist Frederick Hodges, Scott Joplin artist-in-residence, plays a polka-style tune as students demonstrate a “polka” dance Monday morning St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Hodges told the students that ragtime has components from march style music, European polkas and American blues. St. Paul’s was the first stop in a week-long residency that will take Hodges to 11 different area schools.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020717ScottJopinArtist-2-1.jpgPianist Frederick Hodges, Scott Joplin artist-in-residence, plays a polka-style tune as students demonstrate a “polka” dance Monday morning St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Hodges told the students that ragtime has components from march style music, European polkas and American blues. St. Paul’s was the first stop in a week-long residency that will take Hodges to 11 different area schools. Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Scott Joplin Artist-in-Residence Frederick Hodges challenged St. Paul’s students to see if they could play the piano faster than him Monday morning. Hodges, a professional pianist, said he began playing the piano in first grade, ragtime in second grade and still practices seven hours a day.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020717ScottJopinArtist-3-1.jpgScott Joplin Artist-in-Residence Frederick Hodges challenged St. Paul’s students to see if they could play the piano faster than him Monday morning. Hodges, a professional pianist, said he began playing the piano in first grade, ragtime in second grade and still practices seven hours a day. Faith Bemiss | Democrat

St. Paul’s Lutheran School students march up the aisle of St. Paul’s Church as Frederick Hodges, the Scott Joplin artist-in-residence, plays a march tune Monday morning. After his interactive concert at St. Paul’s, Hodges planned to perform for students at Skyline Elementary School.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020717ScottJopinArtist-4-1.jpgSt. Paul’s Lutheran School students march up the aisle of St. Paul’s Church as Frederick Hodges, the Scott Joplin artist-in-residence, plays a march tune Monday morning. After his interactive concert at St. Paul’s, Hodges planned to perform for students at Skyline Elementary School. Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Smith-Cotton High School’s show choir, Broadway Velocity, performs “Hey Everybody!” Saturday afternoon in the Heckart Performing Arts Center, during the Smith-Cotton Show Me Classic. The show choir competition, that began at 7:15 a.m., was hosted by S-C and brought in choirs from Missouri and Kansas. Award winners were announced in ceremonies at 11:15 p.m. that evening. The event is a major fundraiser for the SCHS music department.

Atchison High School’s show choir, Adrenaline, of Atchison, Kansas, performs Saturday at the Show Me Classic hosted at SCHS. The group performed several selections including “Black Roses,” “Talking to the Moon,” and “Mug Shot.”

Performing the song “Geronimo” Harrisonville High School’s show choir, Forefront, gets into the groove during the Show Me Classic in SCHS’s Heckart Center Saturday afternoon. Forefornt’s songs also included “Step 1” and “Touch the Sky.”

SCHS’s show choir Cabaret, an all female choir, performed several pieces, Saturday at the Show Me Classic, including “Sharp Dressed Man,” “American Woman,” “If I were a Boy,” and “I feel Like a Woman.”

Smith-Cotton High School’s show choir, Broadway Velocity, performs “Hey Everybody!” Saturday afternoon in the Heckart Performing Arts Center, during the Smith-Cotton Show Me Classic. The show choir competition, that began at 7:15 a.m., was hosted by S-C and brought in choirs from Missouri and Kansas. Award winners were announced in ceremonies at 11:15 p.m. that evening. The event is a major fundraiser for the SCHS music department.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020617ShowChoir-1-2.jpgSmith-Cotton High School’s show choir, Broadway Velocity, performs “Hey Everybody!” Saturday afternoon in the Heckart Performing Arts Center, during the Smith-Cotton Show Me Classic. The show choir competition, that began at 7:15 a.m., was hosted by S-C and brought in choirs from Missouri and Kansas. Award winners were announced in ceremonies at 11:15 p.m. that evening. The event is a major fundraiser for the SCHS music department. Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Atchison High School’s show choir, Adrenaline, of Atchison, Kansas, performs Saturday at the Show Me Classic hosted at SCHS. The group performed several selections including “Black Roses,” “Talking to the Moon,” and “Mug Shot.”

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020617ShowChoir-2-2.jpgAtchison High School’s show choir, Adrenaline, of Atchison, Kansas, performs Saturday at the Show Me Classic hosted at SCHS. The group performed several selections including “Black Roses,” “Talking to the Moon,” and “Mug Shot.” Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Performing the song “Geronimo” Harrisonville High School’s show choir, Forefront, gets into the groove during the Show Me Classic in SCHS’s Heckart Center Saturday afternoon. Forefornt’s songs also included “Step 1” and “Touch the Sky.”

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020617ShowChoir-3-2.jpgPerforming the song “Geronimo” Harrisonville High School’s show choir, Forefront, gets into the groove during the Show Me Classic in SCHS’s Heckart Center Saturday afternoon. Forefornt’s songs also included “Step 1” and “Touch the Sky.” Faith Bemiss | Democrat

SCHS’s show choir Cabaret, an all female choir, performed several pieces, Saturday at the Show Me Classic, including “Sharp Dressed Man,” “American Woman,” “If I were a Boy,” and “I feel Like a Woman.”

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020617ShowChoir-4-2.jpgSCHS’s show choir Cabaret, an all female choir, performed several pieces, Saturday at the Show Me Classic, including “Sharp Dressed Man,” “American Woman,” “If I were a Boy,” and “I feel Like a Woman.” Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Valentine’s Day may be a celebration of loved ones, but Pettis County Public Administrator Charli Ackerman is asking citizens to think of supporting those in need this February.

February marks Ackerman’s 14th annual Helping Hearts fundraiser, which helps pay for her clients’ expenses that may not be covered by grants or government funding. As a public administrator, Ackerman acts as a guardian for court-appointed residents, many who are either elderly or have a mental disability and most have no family who can care for them.

“(The Helping Hearts Fund) is a monetary fund people can donate to for me to utilize for my clients, my wards, for things their money won’t buy, necessary things,” Ackerman explained. “I use it for co-pays for medications that Medicaid/Medicare won’t pay sometimes, groceries, many times when I put someone in a new rental, they might have the money for the rent but they don’t have the deposit money. I use it for co-pays for medical bills, office visits. Last year I purchased three burial plans for three of my elderly folks in nursing homes.”

Ackerman makes sure her clients have what they need when it comes to food, clothing, housing and medical care. She said many of the people she is responsible for have receive assistance from Social Security, disability or Medicaid/Medicare and very limited funds.

The fundraiser began as a scarf, hat and gloves collection during the Christmas season. Ackerman said the Christmas tree holding the donations “almost fell over” due to so many items, so the next year she changed it to a monetary fundraiser, as sometimes it can be hard to find additional resources for her clients. The change to February worked well with the name, Helping Hearts Fund, and so it has been a Valentine’s Day-themed fundraiser ever since.

“This is the time I do the fundraiser, but anyone is certainly welcome to donate any time during the year to this fund,” Ackerman noted. “I have one anonymous donor that comes in a couple times a year and donates. She’s a very generous, lovely lady. There’s several other people who come in throughout the year.”

Ackerman makes the first donation each year during the February campaign. The Helping Hearts display located just outside her office includes three hearts for her son and each of her parents. Anyone who donates during February can add their own heart to the display, making their donation in memory or in honor of a loved one. Some donors choose to remain anonymous.

“There is no donation too small — I get any amount, I get donations from $1 to many hundreds from donors,” Ackerman said. “I’m just always appreciative to the community for their support for these folks.”

To donate, visit Ackerman’s office on the first floor of the Pettis County Courthouse, Suite 104, or mail a donation to Public Administrator’s Office, 415 S. Ohio Ave., Suite 104, Sedalia, Missouri 65301.

Pettis County Public Administrator Charli Ackerman stands next to the Helping Hearts display outside her office in the Pettis County Courthouse, which is part of her annual February fundraiser to gain funds for her clients.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020717HelpingHeartsFund.jpgPettis County Public Administrator Charli Ackerman stands next to the Helping Hearts display outside her office in the Pettis County Courthouse, which is part of her annual February fundraiser to gain funds for her clients. Nicole Cooke | Democrat

Three hearts, in honor of Pettis County Public Administrator Charli Ackerman’s son and parents, are seen Friday morning on the Helping Hearts display. Ackerman said she makes the first donation to the Helping Hearts fundraiser each February and makes it in memory of her parents and son.

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Three hearts, in honor of Pettis County Public Administrator Charli Ackerman’s son and parents, are seen Friday morning on the Helping Hearts display. Ackerman said she makes the first donation to the Helping Hearts fundraiser each February and makes it in memory of her parents and son.

Nicole Cooke | Democrat

A Lincoln, Nebraska, woman was injured in a single-vehicle accident at 8:35 p.m. Friday in Saline County.

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol report, Lucy S. Koch, 22, was driving east on Interstate 70 at the 75.8 mile marker when she over-corrected. Her vehicle traveled off the left side of the road, struck the cable barrier and began to overturn.

Koch, who was wearing a seat belt, was taken by Sweet Springs Ambulance District to I-70 Community Hospital in Sweet Springs with minor injuries.

Information is taken from preliminary Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sedalia Police Department reports, which do not necessarily contain statements from all parties involved.

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An Overland Park, Kansas, woman was injured in a single-vehicle accident at 11:40 p.m. Sunday in Johnson County.

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol report, Elizabeth K. Brown, 18, was driving west on U.S. Highway 50 at NW 1201 Road when her vehicle traveled off the right side of the road and overturned.

Brown, who was wearing a seat belt, was taken by Johnson County Ambulance District to Lee’s Summit Medical Center with minor injuries.

Information is taken from preliminary Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sedalia Police Department reports, which do not necessarily contain statements from all parties involved.

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Skyline Elementary School first graders Miroslava Gergovska, left, Abram Templeton and Makayla Sandlin, give a thumbs up for a photo after building a 100-cup structure in Chrissy Kirby’s class Tuesday morning. The trio are students from Roxy Himes’ class. Students and staff celebrated 100 days of school Tuesday by dressing up like they were 100 years old.

Skyline first grade teacher Chrissy Kirby plays the part of a 100-year-old woman Tuesday during the school’s 100-day celebration. Kirby decorated her door with colorful tissue paper streamers and the words “100 Days Smarter.”

Keana Furr, a Skyline first grade student from Chrissy Kirby’s class, celebrates 100 days of school by playing a game called Race to 100 with student teacher Liz Bashore on Tuesday. Kirby’s students had rotated to Candice Ditto’s classroom to play the game.

Topped with a hat and a cane at his side, Drew Kindle, a first grader at Skyline, plays a game with a fellow student during the school’s 100 day celebration. Students and staff were encouraged to dress like they were 100 years old.

Using a steady hand, Abram Templeton, complete with a “moustache,” gingerly adds a red cup to the class’s 100-cup structure Tuesday morning. Children at Skyline celebrated 100 days of school by dressing up and participating in activities featuring the number 100.

Skyline Elementary School first graders Miroslava Gergovska, left, Abram Templeton and Makayla Sandlin, give a thumbs up for a photo after building a 100-cup structure in Chrissy Kirby’s class Tuesday morning. The trio are students from Roxy Himes’ class. Students and staff celebrated 100 days of school Tuesday by dressing up like they were 100 years old.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020817100DaysOfSchool1-.jpgSkyline Elementary School first graders Miroslava Gergovska, left, Abram Templeton and Makayla Sandlin, give a thumbs up for a photo after building a 100-cup structure in Chrissy Kirby’s class Tuesday morning. The trio are students from Roxy Himes’ class. Students and staff celebrated 100 days of school Tuesday by dressing up like they were 100 years old. Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Skyline first grade teacher Chrissy Kirby plays the part of a 100-year-old woman Tuesday during the school’s 100-day celebration. Kirby decorated her door with colorful tissue paper streamers and the words “100 Days Smarter.”

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020817100DaysOfSchool-2.jpgSkyline first grade teacher Chrissy Kirby plays the part of a 100-year-old woman Tuesday during the school’s 100-day celebration. Kirby decorated her door with colorful tissue paper streamers and the words “100 Days Smarter.” Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Keana Furr, a Skyline first grade student from Chrissy Kirby’s class, celebrates 100 days of school by playing a game called Race to 100 with student teacher Liz Bashore on Tuesday. Kirby’s students had rotated to Candice Ditto’s classroom to play the game.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020817100DaysOfSchool-3.jpgKeana Furr, a Skyline first grade student from Chrissy Kirby’s class, celebrates 100 days of school by playing a game called Race to 100 with student teacher Liz Bashore on Tuesday. Kirby’s students had rotated to Candice Ditto’s classroom to play the game. Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Topped with a hat and a cane at his side, Drew Kindle, a first grader at Skyline, plays a game with a fellow student during the school’s 100 day celebration. Students and staff were encouraged to dress like they were 100 years old.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020817100DaysOfSchool-4.jpgTopped with a hat and a cane at his side, Drew Kindle, a first grader at Skyline, plays a game with a fellow student during the school’s 100 day celebration. Students and staff were encouraged to dress like they were 100 years old. Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Using a steady hand, Abram Templeton, complete with a “moustache,” gingerly adds a red cup to the class’s 100-cup structure Tuesday morning. Children at Skyline celebrated 100 days of school by dressing up and participating in activities featuring the number 100.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_TSD020817100DaysOfSchoo-l5-.jpgUsing a steady hand, Abram Templeton, complete with a “moustache,” gingerly adds a red cup to the class’s 100-cup structure Tuesday morning. Children at Skyline celebrated 100 days of school by dressing up and participating in activities featuring the number 100. Faith Bemiss | Democrat

JobFinders Employment Services recently expanded into Pettis County when it opened an office in Sedalia. JobFinders announced last week it has hired Nancy Grey as District Manager, which includes Sedalia and Jefferson City. Cathy Schlup has been hired as an Administrative Associate.

Established in 1986, JobFinders Employment Services provides cost-effective staffing solutions for client businesses while affording solid career opportunities to employment candidates. JobFinders can assist in seeking temporary, contract-to-hire, healthcare or direct professional hiring. JobFinders recruits talent for local to national job openings and has been recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the fastest-growing private companies in the country for three consecutive years. In 2014, JobFinders was named a U.S. Chamber of Commerce Dream Big Small Business of the Year.

Owned by Anne Williams, JobFinders is a Certified Women-owned Business (WBE) in Missouri, as well as a member of the American Staffing Association, Missouri Kansas Staffing Association, National Association Personnel Services and the Chambers of Commerce in Sedalia, Jefferson City, Mexico, Fulton and Columbia.

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Missouri is the No. 5 U.S. Growth State for 2016, according to the latest U-Haul migration trends report.

Missouri climbed 13 spots from its No. 18 ranking on the 2015 growth states list. Its year-over-year arrivals of one-way U-Haul truck rentals rose 6 percent last year. Departures went up 5 percent as overall U-Haul traffic increased among do-it-yourself movers in the state.

Arrivals accounted for 50.4 percent of U-Haul traffic in Missouri in 2016. St. Louis, Liberty, Dardenne Prairie, Warsaw and St. Charles paced the net gain of one-way U-Haul trucks.

St. Louis is 34th among U-Haul U.S. Growth Cities for locations with a population of more than 50,000 due to a 5 percent increase in year-over-year arrivals.

Growth States are calculated by the net gain of one-way U-Haul truck rentals entering a state versus leaving a state during a calendar year. Migration trends data is compiled from more than 1.7 million one-way U-Haul truck rental transactions that occur annually.

Last year, U-Haul opened stores in several cities including Kansas City, Lake St. Louis and Florissant. Find U-Haul stores and neighborhood dealers in Missouri at uhaul.com/locations.

The U-Haul Top 10 Growth States of 2016 are:

4. Wisconsin

5. Missouri

6. Maine

7. Idaho

8. Louisiana

9. Vermont

10. Arkansas

Missouri is the No. 5 U.S. Growth State for 2016, according to the latest U-Haul migration trends report.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_12_16_U-Haul_Equipment_NC-409.jpgMissouri is the No. 5 U.S. Growth State for 2016, according to the latest U-Haul migration trends report. Photo courtesy of U-Haul

An Overland Park, Kansas, man was killed in a single-vehicle accident at 9:25 a.m. Monday in Saline County.

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol report, George J. Jansen, 59, was driving east on Interstate 70 at the 77 mile marker when his vehicle traveled off the left side of the road and struck a guardrail. Jansen, who was wearing a seat belt, was ejected from the vehicle.

Jansen was pronounced dead at the scene at 9:49 a.m. by phone by Coroner Willie Harlow.

Information is taken from preliminary Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sedalia Police Department reports, which do not necessarily contain statements from all parties involved.

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Two candidates have been selected for the Aug. 8 special election to fill the vacant 28th Senatorial District seat.

Both the Republican and Democratic 28th Senatorial District Committees met Saturday to vote on their respective candidates for the special election, which was called by Gov. Eric Greitens to fill the seat left by Lt. Gov. Mike Parson.

The 58th District includes portions of Benton, Cedar, Dallas, Hickory, Laclede, Pettis, Polk and St. Clair counties, which will remain unrepresented until the August election.

Republicans have chosen a face already familiar in Jefferson City, state Rep. Sandy Crawford, R-Buffalo. According to Carla Young, Pettis County Republican Chairwoman and Chairwoman for the 4th Congressional District and 52nd Legislative District, Crawford was selected from a pool of five candidates Saturday at the Polk County Courthouse.

Young said each candidate had the opportunity to speak and answer questions during an eight-minute period before the committee members voted. Crawford won after only one round of voting, meaning she received at least 18 votes, the required number to be nominated.

“The committee believed she was the most qualified, being in Jefferson City currently and on top of all the legislation that’s going on,” Young said by phone Tuesday afternoon. “She’s well-liked within the senatorial district. … I think they felt like she was the most qualified.”

Two of the candidates were from Sedalia, Dr. Clark Fobian and Pam Carter, as well as Sam Alexander, of Fair Play, and Ryan Ehbrecht, of Bolivar.

Crawford, who was elected in 2010, is in her last term in the Missouri House, representing the 129th District. She serves on the Administration and Accounts Committee, Pensions Committee and is the chairman of the Financial Institutions Committee.

If Crawford is elected in August, her district will then have to start its own process to find a replacement for the remainder of her term.

Democrats have chosen a new face in state government, Bolivar native Al Skalicky. The Democratic Committee met in Lebanon and Skalicky was chosen unanimously after hearing from three candidates, according to Don Fohn, 28th Senatorial District Committee Chairman.

According to his biography on his Facebook candidacy page, Skalicky is a retired agriculture teacher, spending 31 years at Bolivar High School. He lives on a farm in Bolivar and is a licensed realtor. He is a member of several teacher’s associations, including the Missouri State Teacher’s Association where he served several years on the State Legislative Committee.

Now that the candidates have been selected, registered voters in the 28th Senatorial District will choose either Crawford or Skalicky as their new senator Aug. 8. Whoever is elected will serve for two years, the remainder of Parson’s term. The two-year stint as senator will not affect their term limits — they will still be able to serve as senator for two full terms, if they choose to do so and are re-elected.

Voters in the 50th House District will also vote Aug. 8 for the replacement of state Rep. Caleb Jones, R-Columbia, who left the legislature to become Greitens’ chief of staff.

Sandy Crawford

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_Sandy-Crawford.jpgSandy Crawford

Al Skalicky

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_Al-Skalicky.jpgAl Skalicky

There’s been a disturbing trend lately of politicians who refuse to consider the opinions of the people. The answering machines, inboxes and mailboxes fill up with opposition yet it seems that these various legislators refuse to even briefly consider changing their course of action. It’s like they’re compelled to fall in line by some sort of mysterious force … or maybe it’s some sort of financial force that’s not mysterious at all.

Missouri will soon be a “Right to Work” state, which is the most brilliant bit of deceptive messaging I’ve ever seen. The people already had the right to work, but now union affiliated shops will be forced to admit workers who refuse to join the union. This is intrusive government regulation, fresh from the party that usually claims to rally against such things. It’s only natural that the continued vilification of the working person’s union is topped off with legislation to allow those who have been fooled into thinking that collective bargaining is bad for them to opt out of such cooperation.

Missouri Governor Eric Greitens gleefully signed the “Right to Work” in at least two locations on Monday like he was proud of his decision. But he is ignoring the will of the people of the Show-Me State who have voted against this: As far back as 1978, this issue was put to the people and slightly more than 60 percent of them said no. Now I might understand occasionally asking the people again if they have changed their mind, but I don’t understand taking a decision that was once left to the people and ramming it through the system without further consideration.

Let’s examine this claim that this kind of legislation is conducive to “job growth.” That’s the golden goal these days, right? We’ll slash safety standards, increase tax breaks, outlaw minimum wage increases and do just about anything if it means job growth! But, the resulting jobs are usually more dangerous and less financially viable in modern American society. I’d prefer to see career growth, not just job growth and throwing out legislation that benefits the working person in the long run in exchange for potential short bursts of bad job growth is not healthy for the people or the economy.

Here is a fact: anyone who is telling you that Missouri is having trouble with job growth is lying. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released state-by-state data that says that Missouri had a net gain of 57,100 jobs last year. 7/8 of the states that border Missouri are “Right to work” states and Missouri beat them all in job growth last year.

In fact, the state probably made great gains last year based partly on skilled workers looking for somewhere to go where their right to bargain collectively for their safety, wages and job security wasn’t being threatened. Missouri was an island in a sea of states where so-called job growth legislation had passed and was beating all of them.

And the politicians aren’t done there: they’re going to continue coming down hard on unions and do not care about the consequences for the Missouri worker.

It’s not about political party, at least not entirely: we need to start voting for the people who make decisions for the good of the people rather than the good of the people that write them contribution checks. We need to vote for people who will consider the real pros and cons of each position and vote on what is going to benefit the most people instead of pushing petty, harmful crusades against those that they perceive to be their political enemies. We need to do more research and have a better understanding of who stands to gain from any given piece of legislation.

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The Justice of the Peace is familiar to many people as the person in a community who could perform marriages and was often sought out by eloping couples who wanted or needed a quick wedding ceremony. However, under Missouri law, the JP had more obligations and duties than simple performing marriages. According to local historian William Claycomb, the JP was expected to hold court anytime an event requiring his services occurred. The JP as paid fees set by Missouri statutes for their services.

Fees ranged from 5 cents to $1, except for the $2 fee for performing a marriage and the $5 fee for viewing a dead body. These fees were substantial, considering that many working class men were paid only $1 to $2 per day for working a 10to 12 hour day.

The duties of the JP, Claycomb notes, included having jurisdiction in small civil cases and in cases against railroad for damages to livestock. The JP could issue arrest warrants, try misdemeanors, and set bond to insure the appearance of an accused felon in the circuit court or before the grand jury. The JP could send people to jail, and could, with certain restrictions, call a six man jury to hear cases.

Each township could have two Justices of the Peace. The Portrait and Biographical Record of Pettis and Johnson Counties identifies Martin V. B. Paige as Justice of the Peace in Green Ridge in the 1890s. Paige had held a civil office before, having been appointed as postmaster in Green Ridge in 1889 by President Benjamin Harrison. He served in this capacity until 1893, when he became Justice of the Peace.

Paige was born in New York in 1842, second son of Anson and Mary Flanders Paige. When he was 18, the Civil War began. Paige enlisted in Company C of the 92nd New York Infantry at Potsdam, New York. After serving four years, he re-enlisted and was transferred to Company D of the 96th New York Infantry. Shortly after his transfer, he was captured. After spending two weeks in Libby Prison, he was sent to Salisbury, North Carolina, to a prisoner of war camp there known for the hardships its inmates endured.

Following his release from prison, he was promoted to sergeant and at war’s end, was made Commissary Sergeant. He in the service until February 1866.

Paige married Marilla Austin of New York in 1865. He and family settled on a farm near Green Ridge in March 1866. Marilla died in 1867, and in 1869, Paige married her sister Mariette Austin. The couple had eight children, seven of whom survived.

His experiences in the prisoner of war camp had affected his health, and Paige was not able to continue the arduous labor of farming. In 1883, he and his family moved into Green Ridge, where they lived in a “comfortable home” where the family lived in “ease and enjoyment.”

Paige had an “unblemished reputation as a man of honor and integrity.” He had been a popular Postmaster and served the people well in his position of JP. He and his wife were active members of the Congregational Church. He was a member of the E. D. Baker Post of the Grand Army of the Republic, a Union Army veterans association, and a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen.

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Theft charges have been filed against the former president of the Sedalia Youth Football League.

According to online court documents, Jimmy D. Brown, 53, of the 1000 block of South Vermont Avenue, has been charged with theft/stealing more than $500. The charges were filed in September 2016 and Brown was arrested by the Pettis County Sheriff’s Office for a warrant Sept. 10, 2016. He was issued a $1,500 bond, cash or surety, which was posted Sept. 13, 2016.

According to court documents, SYFL President Jamie Volk gave a report July 11, 2016, to the Sedalia Police Department that he believed Brown had stolen funds from the organization. Volk told SPD that SYFL had conducted an audit and found Brown had written many checks to himself and provided no receipts or explanations for the funds used.

Due to the statute of limitations, SPD Detective Jacob White began looking at checks on and after Aug. 16, 2013. He found Brown wrote 11 checks to himself for a total of $3,745 from Aug. 16, 2013, to Feb. 23, 2014.

Court documents state Brown wrote six checks with the description of “concessions reimbursement” or “concessions fee” ranging from $110 to $260. A check was written Oct. 12, 2013, for $110 that was blank in the memo, and the same day a check was cashed for a “concessions reimbursement.”

The audit showed a check for “misc discretionary league expenses” for $500 on Nov. 8, 2013, and for “concession stand equipment” for $1,300 on Feb. 23, 2014, according to court documents.

Volk told detectives that concession items should have been purchased with profits from the concession stand itself, and that SYFL does not have a pressure washer, which Brown wrote a check to himself for from the league for $405.

White attempted to speak with Brown shortly before his arrest, but Brown referred him to his attorney, Chris Spangler.

Brown waived his right to a formal arraignment in November 2016 and entered a not guilty plea. Two hearings have taken place since then — one just two weeks ago — and a preliminary hearing has been scheduled for 9 a.m. March 7 at the Pettis County Courthouse.

Jimmy D. Brown

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_JimmyBrown.jpgJimmy D. Brown

The senior stars shined Tuesday night as the Smith-Cotton Lady Tigers notched a 54-37 West Central Conference home win over Clinton.

Kiara Williams and Jessica Coble, who after the game were acknowledged on S-C’s Senior Night, led the way from the opening tip for the Lady Tigers. Clinton came out in a 2-3 matchup zone defense that posed some problems for S-C, but the Lady Tigers stayed active and finished the the first quarter tied at 12-12 thanks to a Darby Christian 3-pointer just before the buzzer. S-C built a 26-23 lead at halftime.

Williams keyed two big S-C runs, scoring seven straight points in the second quarter as the Lady Tigers went on a 12-0 stretch to build a five-point lead with 3:40 to play in the first half. S-C came out from halftime and slapped on a full-court press, with Williams making multiple steals and keying fast-break baskets. Coble played solid defense in the second half against the Cardinals’ Allison Petry, who had a pair of 3s and 10 points in the first half but failed to score again after the half.

“Defensively, we upped the pressure a little in the second quarter in the halfcourt that led to some transition, and we came out and pressed in the third quarter and that led to some nice transition points for us,” said S-C Head Coach Jonathan Tester.

Williams led the Lady Tigers with 17 points, while freshman Sophie Martin added 10 and Coble and Christian each had nine. Petry’s 10 points led Clinton. Tester said Williams “has been a big spark all year for us. She shoots the ball well and she is attacking the basket more this year than she has in the past.”

“The girls played well and it was a great night for our seniors,” he added.

Smith-Cotton 75, Clinton 51

Smith-Cotton dashed out to an early lead and kept pushing the pace as the Tigers ran away with a 73-51 West Central Conference home win over Clinton on Tuesday.

It was Senior Night, and honored before the game were Zion Buckner, Bryson Couch, Keoni Hale, Derek Gehlken, Zach Morrison and Kendall Weymuth; all made solid contributions to the Tigers’ victory.

Couch found Weymuth under the basket for an easy score then added a driving layup to give S-C a 16-6 lead with 1:15 to play in the first quarter, forcing Cardinals Head Coach Aaron Potter to call timeout. Couch scored eight of his game-high 21 points in the second quarter as the Tigers built a 41-26 halftime lead.

Clinton’s Gunnar Clark pounded the paint for 10 second-half points and the Cardinals ramped up their full court press, trying to force turnovers, but Buckner, S-C’s point guard, controlled the ball and created easy scoring chances for his teammates.

“I thought we played very well as a team, unselfishly,” said S-C Head Coach Bill Barton. “They’ve got a lot of balanced scoring. I thought our defense for the most part was very good. I was well pleased with the way we played; I just hope we can continue to do that.”

Hale finished with 20 points, seven rebounds and four steals. Buckner had 12 points and five assists, Gehlken and Morrison each had six points and Weymuth had four points and five rebounds. Clark had 14 points to lead Clinton.

S-C now will prepare for its Friday Courtwarming date with O’Hara.

“They beat us up there … it was a good game for a half,” Barton said of the Tigers’ 61-46 loss on Jan. 6. “Maybe we can return the favor – we’d sure like to.”

Smith-Cotton senior guard Kiara Williams converts a layup in the second quarter of the Lady Tigers’ game against Clinton on Tuesday night in the S-C gym. Williams scored seven consecutive points in the quarter to give S-C the lead.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_IMG_0294.jpgSmith-Cotton senior guard Kiara Williams converts a layup in the second quarter of the Lady Tigers’ game against Clinton on Tuesday night in the S-C gym. Williams scored seven consecutive points in the quarter to give S-C the lead. Bob Satnan | Democrat

Smith-Cotton’s Zach Gwaltney (34) squares up to defend the lane against Clinton’s Tyler VanNatta during the second quarter of the teams’ West Central Conference matchup Tuesday night in the S-C gym.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_IMG_0295.jpgSmith-Cotton’s Zach Gwaltney (34) squares up to defend the lane against Clinton’s Tyler VanNatta during the second quarter of the teams’ West Central Conference matchup Tuesday night in the S-C gym. Bob Satnan | Democrat

For the Kaysinger girls, the tournament final is set.

Sacred Heart and Tipton set dates for 9 pm. Friday for a chance to claim conference supremacy with victories Tuesday, Dec. 7 at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia.

2017 Kaysinger Conference Basketball Tournament sponsored by W-K Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac continued 4:30 p.m. Tuesday with a face-off between the Otterville and Stover girls.

The Lady Bulldogs, defending tournament champions, drew up one play down three with 10 seconds remaining. A shot from the top of the key landed short and out of bounds, and the Lady Eagles escaped with a 53-50 victory to advance to the consolation final.

Abby Nichols led Otterville with 22 points. She missed a free throw with 22 seconds to play, heightening optimism for Stover’s chances at victory or overtime. The Lady Eagles snatched the offensive rebound, and Dalanney Stone made 1 of 2 free throws to push the Otterville lead to three.

Battling for a spot in the consolation final, Windsor defeated Lincoln 64-55 in the late game. The Lady Greyhounds Otterville for the rights to fifth place 5 p.m. Saturday in Sedalia.

Top-seeded Tipton sealed its spot in the tournament final with a 63-32 victory over Smithton.

Brooklynn Pace scored a game-high 23 points on a flurry of layups and 5-for-5 shooting from the charity stripe. Abby Backes hit four 3-pointers in a 20-point performance.

Madison Brown, who scored all seven of the Lady Tigers’ first-quarter points, led Smithton in scoring with 15.

The Lady Cardinals sprinted out of the gates. Smithton requested a timeout down 14-7 and 21-7 in the first quarter, and trailed 25-7 at the end of the period.

While Pace and Backes directed the fast break, senior and 1,000-point scorer Alyson Brant balanced Tipton in the post against Smithton’s man-to-man defense. She finished with seven points.

Tipton head coach Jason Culpepper said Brant anchors the Lady Cardinals on offense.

“The great thing about playing against man-to-man is there are no good opportunities, if to isolate, to get double-teamed. So then it’s just Alyson versus whoever is guarding her. I like Alyson versus whoever is guarding her.”

Another theme for Tipton carrying into a third shot at a tournament championship in four years is the youth movement. Save for Brant’s seven and Maddie Eldringhoff’s 11 points, underclassmen did the scoring for the Lady Cardinals.

Culpepper said he’s consistently impressed with the confidence of his young group.

“Sometimes our freshman come out and punch people in the mouth,” he said. “They are not afraid.”

The Lady Gremlins sent jabs, hooks and haymakers to open its game with Cole Camp, blitzing the Lady Bluebirds with an 11-2 run to start the game.

McKenna Beeler led the charge with 17 points, scoring 14 of Sacred Heart’s first 18 points. Grace Goodwin finished with 13 after sitting much of the third quarter with four fouls.

Beeler said the Lady Gremlins shots were falling after an early-game adjustment.

“Our original plan was to take it to them driving because we thought they would play us in man,” Beeler said. “We adjusted to their zone and shot well. We looked for more gaps. With ball movement, we see more gaps and look for open passes.”

The Lady Gremlins led 24-8 in the second quarter after Goodwin scored on a layup, drew a foul and hit the free throw.

Cole Camp cut the lead to 25-18 before halftime but, with a Sacred Heart hand near each entry or inbounds pass, never made up a 10-point deficit in the second half.

Smithton challenges Cole Camp for third place 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia.

SCOREBOARD

Otterville 53, Stover 50

Tipton 63, Smithton 32

Sacred Heart 49, Cole Camp 31

Windsor 64, Lincoln 55

McKenna Beeler releases a jump shot Tuesday, Feb. 7 at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia during a 49-31 Sacred Heart victory over Cole Camp in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_DSC_9218-1.jpgMcKenna Beeler releases a jump shot Tuesday, Feb. 7 at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia during a 49-31 Sacred Heart victory over Cole Camp in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament. Alex Agueros | Democrat

Maddie Eldringhoff drives past a Smithton defender on the baseline Tuesday during a 63-32 Tipton victory against the Lady Tigers at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia. Tipton faces Sacred Heart 7:30 p.m. Friday for the girl’s final in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_DSC_9190-1.jpgMaddie Eldringhoff drives past a Smithton defender on the baseline Tuesday during a 63-32 Tipton victory against the Lady Tigers at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia. Tipton faces Sacred Heart 7:30 p.m. Friday for the girl’s final in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament. Alex Agueros | Democrat

Ashley Schroder goes up with a layup attempt during a 53-50 loss to Otterville in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia.

http://sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_DSC_9133-1.jpgAshley Schroder goes up with a layup attempt during a 53-50 loss to Otterville in the Kaysinger Conference Tournament at the Fred E. Davis Multipurpose Center in Sedalia. Alex Agueros | Democrat