A former Pettis County Sheriff’s Office employee has been charged with stealing money from the organization.

Ben E. Banner, 54, of Green Ridge, has been charged with forgery and receiving stolen property after he was arrested Thursday by Johnson County Sheriff’s Office deputies.

Banner previously served as the Pettis County Deputy Coroner and for the sheriff’s office handling concealed carry weapon permits, both part-time positions within the county. He was terminated in August 2016 by Pettis County Sheriff Kevin Bond for “unacceptable job performance,” court documents state.

According to a news release, a Johnson County Sheriff’s Office detective was requested to investigate a large sum of missing money from the Pettis County Sheriff’s Office account last week. Both office reports and an independent audit of the account showed $22,925 in cash was missing, which had been taken in as payments for CCW permits issued by the office, according to court documents.

During the changeover from Banner to the new person in charge of CCW permits, a current sheriff’s deputy, the new deputy found information indicating some cash was missing or unaccounted for in the deposit records for the CCW program, documents state. The independent audit showed the account was balanced and consistent with deposits in the months following Banner’s departure.

According to court documents, the audit showed $55,350 in cash and checks was taken by Banner as payment for CCW permits between January and August 2016, but only $32,425 was deposited into the sheriff’s office banking account. The detective found Banner only issued written receipts for a handful of the 182 permits issued or renewed in March 2016.

The detective then contacted several people who had gotten or renewed a permit in March 2016, and several of them told the detective they paid in cash as instructed by Banner. Pettis County citizens have the option to pay by cash, check or money order.

In addition to the theft accusations, Banner also allegedly forged the new deputy’s signature on his own CCW permit renewal form. According to court documents, Banner’s CCW application from 2013 includes his signature and a witness signature from the deputy, which she confirmed.

His 2016 renewal form includes those same two signatures, but the female deputy got married during that three-year time period. The renewal signature used her maiden name, which she no longer uses. She denies signing Banner’s renewal form.

Banner was interviewed by the detective Thursday and said he had no knowledge of any missing money. Court documents state he said the only difference in money taken in and what the data showed was due to his not charging law enforcement or first responders for permits, which was not approved by Bond. However, that amount of money is not consistent with the missing $22,925. According to the Pettis County Sheriff’s Office website, a new permit costs $100 and a renewal costs $50.

Banner also said he had no knowledge of what happened to the money after he put it in a bank bag, attempting to elude that the new deputy may have been responsible. Court documents state she was on maternity leave for two of the months when money is unaccounted for.

Banner very publicly voiced his opposition against his former boss, Coroner Skip Smith, during Smith’s re-election campaign in 2016, posting videos and long status updates on Facebook in the week prior to the election.

He also was in attendance at several Green Ridge R-VIII School District Board of Education meetings during the theft investigation into former Superintendent Cara Easter around the same time in 2016. Banner’s main concerns were the board’s handling of the district’s finances, he told the Democrat at an August meeting.

Banner ran for the school board during the April 2016 municipal election, but only received 7.95 percent of the vote.

Banner has been issued a $23,000 cash-only bond and remains at the Pettis County Jail. An arraignment took place Friday morning at the Pettis County Courthouse.

Ben Banner

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_Ben-Banner.jpgBen Banner

The battle for control over the usage of federally owned public land began almost immediately after President Ulysses S. Grant signed the legislation that established Yellowstone National Park. Despite the fact that additional legislation in the early 20th century created and empowered federal agencies including the National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service, The Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect and manage federal land, that battle continues today.

Although it’s always simmering just beneath the surface, the issue of how much land the federal government should own and how that land should be used has once more come to a full boil.

I believe most people would agree that the primary purpose of National Parks and Monuments is to preserve the unique ecosystems or historical sites they encompass. That leaves millions of acres of public land that, traditionally, have been conserved (i.e. wisely used) for the benefit varying mixtures of both public and private entities.

How much of a say should recreational users of public land have in how it’s managed? A lot, according to “The Outdoor Recreation Economy,” a report recently released by the Outdoor Industry Association.

The report lists camping, fishing, hunting, motorcycling, off-roading, snow sports, trail sports, water sports, bicycling and wildlife viewing as forms of outdoor recreation. The OIA’s research found that these activities and the entities that support them are directly responsible for $887 billion in annual consumer spending, 7.6 million American jobs, $65.3 billion in federal tax revenue and $59.2 billion in state and local tax revenue.

Those numbers are so large they’re almost incomprehensible. Fortunately, “The Outdoor Recreation Economy” report uses several easily understandable ways for you and me to get an accurate picture of the economic power of outdoor recreation.

For example, only hospital care, outpatient health care and financial/insurance services outpace outdoor recreation in annual consumer spending. In addition, while only $77 billion separate outdoor recreation from first place hospital care, fifth place pharmaceuticals trails outdoor recreation by $421 billion.

More Americans are directly employed by hunting and fishing (483,000) than by oil and gas extraction (180,000), a fact politicians should keep in mind when weighing the economic importance of an elk migration route versus an oil field. Outdoor Recreation’s 7.6 million American jobs exceeds computer technology’s 6.7 million and construction’s 6.4 million.

And, just for fun, more American jobs depend on recreational motorcycling and off-roading (867,000) than there are lawyers in the United States (779,000).

Not all outdoor recreation takes place on rural public land, but even in states like Missouri where 95 percent of the land is privately owned, a disproportionate percentage of it does. I don’t have any idea what percentage of fishing and boating takes place on Corps of Engineers reservoirs, Missouri Department of Conservation lakes and navigable rivers, but based on personal observation, it’s a large majority. For example, the Mark Twain National Forest’s mountains, streams and back roads draw hunters, fishermen, hikers, off-roaders, wildlife watchers, horseback riders and other subsets of outdoor recreation enthusiasts.

The economic results of this land and water suddenly becoming off limits would be horrendous, but at least some of the owners of Missouri’s other 95 percent are willing to share the outdoor recreational opportunities to be found on their property. That’s not the case in the western United States, where access to huge tracts of public land is balanced by very little no-cost or even low-cost access to private land.

It’s undeniable that the federal government’s management of the land it owns in the western states hasn’t always been satisfactory. Even so, only the federal government can — or will — guarantee that the public will always have free access to that land and that the public will always reap the economic benefits it produces.

The bipartisan Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act, which was signed into law in 2016, will go a long way toward keeping the value of outdoor recreation in Congress’s eye. Also known as the REC Act, it requires an annual measure of outdoor recreation’s contribution to the national gross domestic product.

Even so, calls and letters to Senators and Congressmen will always have more impact than any law, so don’t be shy about letting them know how you feel. For more information, see www.outdoorindustry.com.

Scott

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_2011_Scott_Gerald-1.jpgScott

Esther Brown will celebrate her 100th birthday with a card shower July 23.

Esther was born July 23, 1917.

She has four children, Robert Brown, of Springfield, Raymond (Tammy) Brown, Dennis Brown and Chris (Debbie) Brown, all of Sedalia; eight grandchildren, 12 great-great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Cards may be sent to Esther at Katy Manor 205 Prospect Ave. Pilot Grove, Mo., 65276

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Short takes and random thoughts:

• The world has few undeniable truths. There are lots of shades of gray in everything, but there is only one area where there is one clear-cut, black-and-white, unequivocal answer: Chicago-style deep dish is the king of all pizza. Calgaro’s remains the best pizza in west central Missouri, but a real Chicago pie beats everything.

•My social media timelines are peppered with comments and links about the Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor fight, which takes place in about six weeks. To catch everyone up, Mayweather is a loud-mouth, multimillionaire boxer and McGregor is a loud-mouth, multimillionaire mixed martial arts fighter. According to Brian Mazique, writing for forbes.com, “Boxing Kingdom estimates the purses could be as high as $400 million for Mayweather and $127 million for McGregor.” To provoke more people to shell out $89.95 to see the farce, er, fight via pay per view, Mayweather and McGregor are on a press tour, taking turns being infinitely embarrassing as each mocks his opponent. Some find it entertaining, but it comes off as a couple of rich guys pulling a con on a gullible public eager to pay to be distracted from our reality.

• Nicole Cooke is the fourth editor at the Sedalia Democrat since I left the job in April 2013 to work for Sedalia School District 200. Over the past four years, Cooke has evolved into a newsroom and community leader, winning awards for her work and building bonds with community groups. This is just one guy’s opinion, but I am confident that she will be a positive force for the Democrat and its readers. Cooke understands the important role that community news plays in fostering a sense of belonging and engagement among residents.

•We could eradicate a lot of idiocy on the Internet if people would simply take 30 seconds to fact check information before sharing it. While tin-foil hat conspiracy theorists often mock its findings, snopes.com a great resource for tracking down the truth about so much of the flotsam that is forwarded online. A recent example found someone pedaling a post about George Soros reportedly being an SS officer under Hitler. Soros was 9 years old at the start of World War II. Logic and a little bit of virtual leg work will help make everyone smarter and perhaps less combative.

•Since its inception, the Community Café has been operated by Smith-Cotton High School students with great assistance from local volunteers. Service groups, churches, sports teams and families all have stepped up to provide a meal each weeknight for Sedalia’s hungry. While July’s calendar is primarily full, there are many open dates in August that need to be filled. Groups should plan to provide and serve a meal for 75 to 100 people, and the meal should be ready to serve at 5 p.m. For all of the details, go to sedaliacommunitycafe.blogspot.com or contact Executive Director Kali Hedderich via call or text at 660-460-6108, or send email to sedaliacommunitycafe@gmail.com

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A vehicle is loaded onto a tow truck after a two-vehicle accident Friday afternoon at Grand Avenue and West Broadway Boulevard. The Sedalia Police Department, Sedalia Fire Department and Pettis County Ambulance District responded to the call around 3:40 p.m. SPD Officer John Fellows said the accident was non-injury. He added that since the intersection was busy, traffic was backed up and had to be rerouted for a time.

After a two-vehicle accident Friday afternoon, SPD Officer Brad Beard directs westbound traffic along Broadway Boulevard and Grand Avenue. Eastbound traffic was rerouted down Prospect Avenue until the accident site was cleared.

A vehicle is loaded onto a tow truck after a two-vehicle accident Friday afternoon at Grand Avenue and West Broadway Boulevard. The Sedalia Police Department, Sedalia Fire Department and Pettis County Ambulance District responded to the call around 3:40 p.m. SPD Officer John Fellows said the accident was non-injury. He added that since the intersection was busy, traffic was backed up and had to be rerouted for a time.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071517Accident-1.jpgA vehicle is loaded onto a tow truck after a two-vehicle accident Friday afternoon at Grand Avenue and West Broadway Boulevard. The Sedalia Police Department, Sedalia Fire Department and Pettis County Ambulance District responded to the call around 3:40 p.m. SPD Officer John Fellows said the accident was non-injury. He added that since the intersection was busy, traffic was backed up and had to be rerouted for a time. Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

After a two-vehicle accident Friday afternoon, SPD Officer Brad Beard directs westbound traffic along Broadway Boulevard and Grand Avenue. Eastbound traffic was rerouted down Prospect Avenue until the accident site was cleared.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071517Accident-2.jpgAfter a two-vehicle accident Friday afternoon, SPD Officer Brad Beard directs westbound traffic along Broadway Boulevard and Grand Avenue. Eastbound traffic was rerouted down Prospect Avenue until the accident site was cleared. Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Finding one’s inner strength can develop from multiple places, but for many Smith Cotton students it is often developed from their personal family lives and from their school family.

This has been proven true for the members of S-C FCCLA (Family Career and Community Leaders of America) and especially for one member in particular, Madison Dick.

Dick, along with her sponsor Marina Scheiner, who judged at the event, recently returned from the FCCLA National Competition in Nashville, Tennessee, where the senior competed in Fashion Design. The trip marked the first time a S-C FCCLA student has competed at the national level for the organization.

“FCCLA has really helped me identify several hidden strengths this year and competing has helped me grow into a much more confident person,” Dick said. “If I had not competed in my Star event, I am positive I would not be as ready to take on the world and move across the country as I am now.

“I have always had big aspirations and FCCLA is getting me closer to all my goals one day at a time,” she added. “Competing this year has given me an opportunity to become a much stronger public speaker and my success has given me much more confidence in my ability to speak in front of an audience.”

Dick added that the hardest part of the competition itself was having judges she had just met critiquing the hard work she had put her whole heart into for several months. She competed in Fashion Design at both the state and national levels.

“The competitions required me to create my own fashion label, design four pieces of a collection within my label, and actually produce one handmade piece from the collection,” Dick said. “My fashion label, Betty Jean, was named after my great-grandma, who definitely passed on her creative ‘genes’ to me.

“The Betty Jean label will include several collections that all incorporate hand-picked, vintage pieces into each one,” she explained. “The collection that I competed for competition is called Swanky Hankies and I incorporated vintage handkerchiefs into each of the garments.”

Dick commented that not only is her family a big part of her life but it is also a big part of FCCLA, something Scheiner agrees with.

“I think what we are seeing in our chapter is a growing nucleus of students that are looking for positive ways to impact their community, grow individually and have fun while in high school,” Scheiner said. “This year’s group is a great representation of SCHS.

“I think students see FCCLA as an organization where anyone is welcome and we have students that want to participate and have fun,” she added. “Our presence in our high school is growing and students like making a difference.”

That difference was felt in numerous ways through both the school and the community. According to Scheiner, FCCLA participated in DECA’s Trunk or Treat, donating its proceeds to Community Santa, participated in the Community Carnival, provided a meal at the Community Cafe and created hand-crafted mugs at Christmas. Through STAR events, two students went to the elementary school and taught children about writing through letters to Santa and two others collected donations and made care bags for individuals going through cancer treatments.

“We just had our first planning meeting with officers this week and they have set the bar high with membership goals, community service projects four times this upcoming year and increasing our numbers participating in competitions,” Scheiner said. “Our officers are very driven to share the FCCLA and FCS opportunities within our school and community.” ​

Dick too has a number of goals both personally and for FCCLA. She said she plans to compete in both the Star Events, which are the qualifiers for the state and national competitions, adding that she would like to see more S-C students pursuing the same path.

In February, Dick was accepted into the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, California, where she plans to attend in Fall 2018.

“I have always loved clothing and keeping up with fashion trends, as well as the way marketers use the different types of media to reach their audience,” Dick said. “I’ve always known I could make my passion into a career one day and I can honestly say that attending FIDM has been my dream, and my goal, since I stumbled upon it a few years ago as I began searching for schools of fashion.

“Once I’d found my dream school, I began trying to figure out my dream job, and after competing this year, I have learned that what I really enjoy about fashion is marketing, as fashion marketers are the ones that attract people like me to their social media sites, websites, and even storefronts to buy their clothing,” she added. “As a result, I have decided to pursue a social media degree in fashion at FIDM, with the goal of landing a job in the fashion industry working on the social media team for a popular brand.”

Madison Dick proudly stands with her National FCCLA medal she received at the competition hosted in Nashville, Tennessee. Dick, along with Smith-Cotton FCCLA chapter adviser Marina Scheiner, represented Smith-Cotton High School for the first time at a National FCClA event from July 1 through 6. Dick competed in the Fashion Design event and Scheiner served as a judge for some events at the conference.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_tsd071517dick1.jpgMadison Dick proudly stands with her National FCCLA medal she received at the competition hosted in Nashville, Tennessee. Dick, along with Smith-Cotton FCCLA chapter adviser Marina Scheiner, represented Smith-Cotton High School for the first time at a National FCClA event from July 1 through 6. Dick competed in the Fashion Design event and Scheiner served as a judge for some events at the conference. Photos courtesy of Sedalia School District 200

Madison Dick is pictured with one of the dresses she designed as part of her Betty Jean label. The collection, named for her grandmother, was part of the “Swanky Hankies” group she entered and competed in at the regional, state and national FCCLA Competition during her junior year at Smith-Cotton. The dress is named Gigi after Dick’s little sister.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_tsd071517dick2.jpgMadison Dick is pictured with one of the dresses she designed as part of her Betty Jean label. The collection, named for her grandmother, was part of the “Swanky Hankies” group she entered and competed in at the regional, state and national FCCLA Competition during her junior year at Smith-Cotton. The dress is named Gigi after Dick’s little sister. Photos courtesy of Sedalia School District 200

SMITHTON — Cheyanne Beard, 18, of Green Ridge, was crowned Miss Pettis County Thursday night at the annual pageant hosted during the 50th Smithton Town and County Fair. Miss Pettis County will go on to compete in the Missouri State Fair in August.

Three area women vied for the title Thursday evening. Also competing were Alicia Eldred, of Windsor, who took second runner-up, and Marissa Cornine, of Hughesville, who placed as first runner-up. As part of the 50-year anniversary of the fair, Pageant Director Anné Townsend also recognized past fair queens during the ceremony hosted in the Smithton High School Gymnasium. Townsend, a former Smithton Fair queen, reigned as Miss Pettis County in 1996.

“This year was definitely different because we invited back all 49 (former queens),” Townsend said before the program began. “Clear up to today people were still coming in. So, we made them name tags and they all rode in the parade together. It was good to hangout with all our pageant sisters.”

Judges for this year’s pageant were also former Smithton Fair queens, Brittney Wilbanks, 2008, Haley Acklin, 1998, and Miya Barr, 1994.

Townsend talked about this year’s three contestants noting that Eldred, 19, was a pageant veteran, while both Beard, 18, and Cornine, 17, were participating for the first time.

“She’s never been in a pageant before,” she said of Beard. “She’s new to the pageant world, and she’s done fantastic. Contestant No. 3, Marissa, she’s from the Hughesville area. I’ve known her for a long time so it’s been neat to see her grow up … this is also her first pageant tonight.”

All three women competed in talent, evening gown and an on-stage question competition. For the talent portion, Eldred danced a ballet routine to the song “Hopelessly Devoted to You.” Beard played “The Star Spangled Banner” on her flute, and Cornine presented a speech on GMOs, or genetically modified organisms.

For the evening gown competition both Beard and Eldred wore white gowns and Cornine wore a strapless gown with a black bodice and royal blue skirt. During the onstage question competition each woman was asked to pick a question from small folded pieces of paper, read it to herself and then allow Townsend to read it aloud.

Beard, the daughter of Heather Blankenship and Steve Beard, was asked if she could choose between having only beauty or intelligence which one would she choose and why.

“I would personally choose intelligence,” she told the crowd. “… It’s important to have intelligence about what’s going on around you, about what profession you want to go into. I just feel like, in the long run, it would be a great trait overall … intelligence is pretty beautiful in my eyes.”

Beard, who plans to follow a career in radiation therapy, said Friday that receiving the Miss Pettis County title made her feel “like a queen.” The honor made her feel extremely happy, although she believed the competition was close for all three women.

“It could have been any of us,” she added.

Although this was her first pageant, Beard said without knowing it, she had been practicing all her life for the competition.

“We had an interview first, and in FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) to be an officer you had to go through an interview,” said Beard, who is a 2017 Otterville High School graduate. “The parade, I drove an antique tractor in a parade for years. The talent, I’ve played ‘The Star Spangled Banner’ in front of my basketball crowd tons of times. So, I was practicing for years and just didn’t realize it.”

During her senior year at Otterville, she was the president of FBLA, cheer and archery captain, president of the Otterville band, a member of the National Honor Society and a member of the A+ Program. She is also a member of Future Christian Athletes.

In the fall Beard plans to attend the University of Missouri-Columbia to work toward a degree in radiation therapy, and she plans to stay in the local area after college.

“I’m one of those people that my favorite part of vacation is coming back home,” Beard noted. “I like being around here by my family where I’m comfortable. I like traveling, but I always like to come back to this environment, because I’m used to it and it’s like the best environment.”

Beard gave advice for other young women who want to enter the Miss Pettis County Pageant.

“Just do it, go out of your comfort zone,” she said. “… It’s a great experience. You make friends, you learn new stuff and anybody can do it really.”

Cheyanne Beard, 18, of Green Ridge, was crowned 2017 Miss Pettis County by 2016 Miss Pettis County Whitney Fisher, Thursday evening during the 50th Smithton Town and County Fair. Beard is the daughter of Heather Blankenship and Steve Beard.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071517PettisQueen-1.jpgCheyanne Beard, 18, of Green Ridge, was crowned 2017 Miss Pettis County by 2016 Miss Pettis County Whitney Fisher, Thursday evening during the 50th Smithton Town and County Fair. Beard is the daughter of Heather Blankenship and Steve Beard. Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Miss Pettis County Cheyanne Beard waves to the crowd Thursday night after receiving her crown. Beard is a 2017 graduate of Otterville High School. She plans to continue her education at the University of Missouri-Columbia.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071517PettisQueen-2.jpgMiss Pettis County Cheyanne Beard waves to the crowd Thursday night after receiving her crown. Beard is a 2017 graduate of Otterville High School. She plans to continue her education at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

The 2017 Miss Pettis County Pageant contestants, from left, Marissa Cornine, of Hughesville, Cheyanne Beard, of Green Ridge, and Alicia Eldred, of Windsor, wait for the announcement of the 2017 Queen title Thursday evening. Beard was announced as Miss Pettis County, Cornine received first runner-up and Eldred received second runner-up.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071517PettisQueen-3.jpgThe 2017 Miss Pettis County Pageant contestants, from left, Marissa Cornine, of Hughesville, Cheyanne Beard, of Green Ridge, and Alicia Eldred, of Windsor, wait for the announcement of the 2017 Queen title Thursday evening. Beard was announced as Miss Pettis County, Cornine received first runner-up and Eldred received second runner-up. Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

For the talent portion of the Miss Pettis County Pageant, Cheyanne Beard plays “The Star Spangled Banner” on her flute. Beard went on to take the 2017 Miss Pettis County crown Thursday night in Smithton.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071517PettisQueen-4.jpgFor the talent portion of the Miss Pettis County Pageant, Cheyanne Beard plays “The Star Spangled Banner” on her flute. Beard went on to take the 2017 Miss Pettis County crown Thursday night in Smithton. Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Whitney Fisher, 2016 Miss Pettis County, left, presents flowers to 2017 Miss Pettis County Cheyanne Beard Thursday night after it was announced Beard was queen. Khloie Ramey, the young crown bearer, looks on.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071517PettisQueen-5.jpgWhitney Fisher, 2016 Miss Pettis County, left, presents flowers to 2017 Miss Pettis County Cheyanne Beard Thursday night after it was announced Beard was queen. Khloie Ramey, the young crown bearer, looks on. Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Connor Spunaugle and Mason Sanders first met on opposite sides of the line of scrimmage.

Assigned to block a 10-year-old Spunaugle, Sanders was blitzed and floored with no formal introduction. Two years later, the pair tore up a youth wood bat tournament in opposing dugouts and learned each other’s names.

“Nothing changes,” Sanders said. “I can’t block, still.”

Since then, they have been teammates — through high school graduation at Lincoln and, after countless accolades across multiple sports, in their step to the collegiate level as teammates at State Fair Community College in Sedalia.

Spunaugle and Sanders combined to be at least all-Conference, District or State in football, basketball and baseball during the 2016-17 school year, and have enough Lincoln postseason tournament T-shirts for a two-week vacation. Despite the praise, the duo are walk-ons with A+ Scholarships and no signing-day photo op.

Coming from Lincoln, the two are used to low-key exposure, but admit they imagined the college search differently.

“I grew up watching (Warsaw graduate) Johnny Eierman play,” Spunaugle said. “And he had pro scouts at his game, he had Division I scouts at every game, so I’m like, ‘Okay, getting recruited is easy.’ You get there and you figure it out, you just figure out you’re not as good as you think you are.

“For me, it was very humbling … I kind of got myself recruited — made some highlight videos, sent them out. But in the end, State Fair came and found me.”

After visiting John Wood Community College in Quincy, Illinois, together, and Spunaugle having visited Central Methodist University, Metropolitan Community College-Maple Woods and North Central Missouri College, their most local choice was their most practical.

Spunaugle picked State Fair before Lincoln baseball’s postseason run — one that finished with a third-place plaque — and Sanders decided during the Class 2 Missouri State Tournament.

“Going into the state tournament, I was thinking that I don’t really want to keep thinking about where to go to college,” he said. “But, then again, I don’t want to rush my decision … I was trying not to think about it and it just kept coming up.”

The Cardinals-turned-Roadrunners arrive with profound respect for the SFCC coaching staff. Head coach Jud Kindle has known the players for years of Sedalia junior and senior legion baseball, while pitching coach Nick Petree serves as a source of personal inspiration for both.

Petree, a Clinton native, was All-American at Missouri State University and was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2013.

“I think it’s awesome that a kid from Clinton, Missouri, went and did what he did, and now he’s back and helping us out,” Spunaugle said. “The things he does with kids is just amazing.”

Both said they must improve to earn a starting spot on a community college roster. Both have done just that integrating with students in larger schools in Sedalia, Clinton and further during summer ball.

Sanders worked his way from the 9-hole in junior legion to the top of the lineup, likely leading off for the defending state champion Post 642 Sedalia Travelers this weekend in Springfield.

Spunaugle said the “fun rivalry” between his historic group at Lincoln and larger schools — along with values instilled by Cardinals coach Will Lynde, Travelers coach Jeff Mays and his father, Marc Spunaugle — have prepared him to work hard to advance in any activity.

“It’s definitely cool that we went on the run that we did in high school, and then we get to continue our career together at the next level,” Spunaugle said. “That’s pretty special.”

Connor Spunaugle, left, and Mason Sanders pose for a photo after a 2013 Sedalia Bandits youth baseball tournament at Centennial Park in Sedalia.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_file72017713194847395.jpegConnor Spunaugle, left, and Mason Sanders pose for a photo after a 2013 Sedalia Bandits youth baseball tournament at Centennial Park in Sedalia. Photos courtesy of Marc Spunaugle

Mason Sanders, left, and Connor Spunaugle pose for a photo after participating in the 2017 West-Central Missouri Lions Club All-Star Baseball Game at Crane Stadium in Warrensburg.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_file32017713194855370.jpegMason Sanders, left, and Connor Spunaugle pose for a photo after participating in the 2017 West-Central Missouri Lions Club All-Star Baseball Game at Crane Stadium in Warrensburg. Photos courtesy of Marc Spunaugle

Mason Sanders connects with a pitch during a 2016 Post 642 Sedalia Travelers game against Waverly.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_Travelers-Waverly_1.jpgMason Sanders connects with a pitch during a 2016 Post 642 Sedalia Travelers game against Waverly. Democrat file photos

Connor Spunaugle releases a pitch during a 2017 district tournament game for the Lincoln Cardinals. Spunaugle was named All-State in 2017.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_Lincoln-Concordia_2.jpgConnor Spunaugle releases a pitch during a 2017 district tournament game for the Lincoln Cardinals. Spunaugle was named All-State in 2017. Democrat file photos

Customers at Applebee’s in Sedalia had some extra servers Thursday evening, all in the name of a good cause.

Members of the Sedalia Police Department paired up with waiters and waitresses at Applebee’s to help deliver drinks, greet customers and clean tables at the crowded restaurant for a few hours in hopes of receiving additional tips to go toward Special Olympics Missouri. This marked the fourth year SPD hosted the Tip-A-Cop event with Applebee’s to support the organization.

SPD Cmdr. Larry Ward said Special Olympics is an unofficial philanthropy for law enforcement, and he’s been involved since he joined the SPD force 29 years ago.

“I’ve coached men’s basketball for about eight years, but my involvement started 29 years ago,” Ward said Friday. “The department was involved in the Torch Run and I was recruited to do it. When you’re around those folks, you don’t have a bad day, even in competition. When they fall down, someone stops to help pick them up and pat them on the back. We lose with grace, win with grace. It does as much for me as it does for them, it truly does.”

Sandy Goff, administrative assistant at SPD, helps coordinate the department’s fundraising efforts. When it comes to getting volunteers, Ward said it’s easy.

“We don’t have to do a lot of arm pulling — these guys work 12 hour shifts, they’re tired when they get home, it’s hard to get them to do extra-curriculars,” Ward said. “For this, we had more people coming out than we had waitresses to work with. That’s a good problem to have.”

Their efforts netted about $1,800, Ward said, with a few more pledges still coming in. Ward noted that those funds didn’t take away from the wait staff’s tips, it was extra money donated by customers.

A few of the customers in attendance included Ward’s athletes and their families. While Ward coaches basketball, Special Olympics also offers a variety of other sports. Most programs are year-round, whether it’s practicing or playing in a game or tournament.

“The money we raise at any of our fundraisers stays in the Central Missouri area,” Ward said. “No fees are kept out of that. It stays right here and those athletes don’t have to pay to participate at all. When we go to state tournaments, rooms, meals are paid for. Fundraisers like this keep it that way.”

Sedalia Police Officer Derick DeSalme talks with Katie Bocanegra and Juan Bocanegra after they ordered their food at Applebee’s Thursday night during the Tip-A-Cop event to benefit Special Olympics Missouri. Katie said they attended the fundraiser because Juan is a member of SPD Cmdr. Larry Ward’s men’s basketball team for Special Olympics.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071517TipACop2017714195314565.jpgSedalia Police Officer Derick DeSalme talks with Katie Bocanegra and Juan Bocanegra after they ordered their food at Applebee’s Thursday night during the Tip-A-Cop event to benefit Special Olympics Missouri. Katie said they attended the fundraiser because Juan is a member of SPD Cmdr. Larry Ward’s men’s basketball team for Special Olympics.

Sedalia Police Officer Mark Cherry talks with Tristan Guier, who was celebrating his second birthday with his family, during Tip-A-Cop at Applebee’s Thursday night. Guier was with his parents, Shona Moore and Brent Guier, along with Emory Gash and Dan Guier.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071517TipACop2201771419532576.jpgSedalia Police Officer Mark Cherry talks with Tristan Guier, who was celebrating his second birthday with his family, during Tip-A-Cop at Applebee’s Thursday night. Guier was with his parents, Shona Moore and Brent Guier, along with Emory Gash and Dan Guier.

Sedalia Police Officer John Fellows talks with a table of customers during Thursday night’s Tip-A-Cop fundraiser at Applebee’s.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071517TipACop3201771419533378.jpgSedalia Police Officer John Fellows talks with a table of customers during Thursday night’s Tip-A-Cop fundraiser at Applebee’s.

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

July 13

6:20 a.m.: Thomas Duane Averbeck, 65, of the 1500 block of South Harrison Avenue, was arrested in the 3400 block of South Grand Avenue on charges of driving with a suspended license and failure to properly display/affix license plates.

1:45 p.m.: Beckey Elaine Thomas, 32, no address given, was arrested in the 3400 block of West Broadway Boulevard on charges of possession of synthetic narcotics and possession of drug paraphernalia. Officers conducted a warrant check. The subject had a parole violation warrant and a larceny warrant, and was found in possession of drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine.

8:20 p.m.: Alexander Anthony Brockman, 19, of Hughesville, was arrested near the intersection of East 11th Street and South Ohio Avenue on charges of felony possession of marijuana, distributing/delivering/manufacturing marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. A traffic stop was conducted for a vehicle with no front license plate and failure to signal. Investigation revealed the subject was in possession of marijuana and drug distribution supplies.

10:05 p.m.: Dustin Alan Lappat, 35, no address given, was arrested near the intersection of East Broadway Boulevard and South Summit Avenue on charges of third degree assault on a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest. A traffic stop was conducted and while officers were conducting a driving while intoxicated investigation with the driver, the passenger shoved an officer. The subject then ran from police, starting a short foot pursuit. After the pursuit, he complained of chest injuries. The Pettis County Ambulance District responded to the scene, but upon arrival he refused medical treatment.

Incidents

July 12

Noon: A 16-foot trailer, valued at $1,500, was reported stolen from a backyard in the 1000 block of South Missouri Avenue.

July 14

12:39 a.m.: $5,300 was reported stolen from a lock box at a residence in the 900 block of Mitchell Road while the victim was at a doctor’s appointment.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_crime-scene-police-lights-28-11.jpg

To have your event or meeting listed, send details to fbemiss@civitasmedia.com or call 826-1000 ext. 1481.

MONDAY

10 a.m.: Show-Me Mad Tatters, University Extension Office Conference Room, 1012A Thompson Blvd.

Noon and 7 p.m.: Alcoholic Anonymous 12×12 Non-smoking group Noon and 7 p.m. Monday through Sunday; at 118 E. Main St., Sedalia, 660-829-2527.

Noon: Sedalia Rotary Club, Best Western State Fair Inn, 3120 S. Limit Ave.

3 p.m.: Taking Off Pounds Sensibly, (TOPS) Chapter 102, Boonslick Regional Library, 219 W. Third St.

6 p.m.: Cornerstone Celebrate Recovery. A Bible-based twelve step program for Hurts, Habits and Hangups. Meal and child care provided; Cornerstone Baptist Church, 660-827-4833.

6 p.m.: Smithton Senior Citizens Group Pitch and Pool, Smithton Senior Center on Washington Street.

6:30 p.m.: Memory Lane Foundation for Suicide Prevention Support Group Meetings at the Gathering Church, 314 W. Main. For more information call, 660-596-5173 or visit www.memorylanefoundation.weebly.com.

6:30 p.m.: Show Me Sound, Sweet Adelines International, Wesley United Methodist Church, 1322 W. Broadway Blvd.

7 p.m.: Serenity Seekers Al-Anon, Ditzfeld Center 417 W. Pettis St.

7:30 p.m.: BRHC Grief Support Group, Mondays, 601 E. 14th St.

TUESDAY

6:30 a.m.: Sunrise Optimist, Best Western State Fair Inn, 3120 S. Limit Ave.

8 a.m.: Business Network International, at Heckart Family Center, 902 S. Ohio Ave.

11 a.m.: Diabetes Support Group, Bothwell Education Center, 600 E. 14th St.

Noon: Sedalia Noon Day Optimist Club, Best Western State Fair Inn (Gambler’s Room), 3120 S. Limit Ave.

1 p.m.: Show-Me Ladies with Hatitudes, lunch. For location information, call Maryann at 660-826-8138.

3 to 6 p.m.: Sedalia Area Farmers’ Market, on Missouri State Fairgrounds by Centennial Gate gate along South Limit Avenue.

3:30 and 5:30 p.m.: Weight Watchers; and 11:45 a.m., Thursdays; Parkview Christian Church, 1405 E. 16th St.

6 p.m.: Crossroads Hospice a monthly discussion grief group at the Heckart Family Center, 903 S. Ohio Ave. For more information, contact Colleen Dietmeyer at 660-422-5804.

6 p.m.: Sedalia RC Flyers, learn to fly radio controlled airplanes. Event is free, with all equipment provided; meet at gate No. 9 Missouri State Fairgrounds.

7 p.m.: Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) is a 12-step fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is recovery from co-dependence at the First United Methodist Church Celebration Center, 1701 W. 32nd St.; for more information call Barbra at 660-827-6522.

7 p.m.: Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary, Lincoln.

7 p.m.: Granite Lodge 272, Masonic Center, 601 W. Broadway Blvd.

7 p.m.: Masonic Granite Lodge 272 meeting, at 601 W. Broadway Blvd.

7 p.m.: Mid-Mo Speakers Club, Boonslick Regional Library conference room, 219 W. Third St.

7 p.m.: Loyal Order of Moose, Sedalia Lodge 1494, at the lodge, 119 Winchester Ave.

7 p.m.: Show-Me Model A Club, Central Missouri Electric Co-op, north of Sedalia on U.S. Highway 65.

WEDNESDAY

10 a.m.: TOPS Chapter 958, First Baptist Church, 200 E. Sixth St.

Noon: Sedalia Lions Club, Best Western State Fair Inn, 3120 S. Limit Ave.

5:30 p.m.: Amigos de Cristo, Teen Mom Classes at 3003 W. 11th Street, 660-826-2788.

6:30 p.m.: Sedalia-Pettis County National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, for executive committee;

7 p.m.: meeting, Anthony Buckner Community Center, 500 Welch Ct.

7 p.m.: Elks Lodge 125, Elks Lodge, 320 S. Kentucky Ave.

7:30 p.m.: Narcotics Anonymous Because We Care also meets at 7 p.m. on Sunday; First Christian Church, 200 S. Limit Ave. For more information, call 660-221-2221.

THURSDAY

7:45 a.m.: 40 & 8 Voiture 333, Knights of Columbus Hall, 1708 Elm Hills Blvd.

10 a.m.: American Red Cross Board meeting, 112 W. Fourth St.

Noon: Kiwanis of Sedalia, Best Western State Fair Inn, 3120 S. Limit Ave.

1 p.m.: The Whiteman Area Piecemakers in the meeting room of the Knob Noster Branch of the Trails Regional Library, 202 N. Adams. For more information call 660-647-3367 or 660-563-5247.

4:15 p.m.: Birthright, volunteer meeting at offices, 1810 W. 11th St.

5 to 7 p.m.: Downtown Sedalia, arts, crafts entertainment and farmers’s market items. Event sponsored by Sedalia Downtown Development, Inc.

6 p.m.: Women in Crisis Group, call 660-827-5555 for location.

6:30 to 8 p.m.: The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) will host Family to Family Support Groups at Epworth United Methodist Church, 1124 E. Broadway Blvd. For more information call Denise Woolery at 660-287-7718 or Tammy Pittman at 660-221-3616.

6:30 p.m.: Sedalia Cadet Squadron Civil Air Patrol, Civil Air Patrol building, U.S. Highway 50.

6:30 p.m.: Sedalia Duplicate Bridge Club, Sedalia Senior Center, 312 S. Washington Ave.

7 p.m.: Gamma Epsilon Master Chapter. For location information call 660-827-2299.

7 p.m.: Sedalia Bible Academy, Boonslick Regional Library, 219 W. Third St. For information call 660-826-9988.

7 p.m.: Sedalia Photo Club, Wesley United Methodist Church, 1322 W. Broadway Blvd.

7 p.m.: Senior dance; bring snacks. Dance at Saline County Fairgrounds in Marshall.

7:30 p.m.: Central Missouri Coin Club, Farm Credit Services, 2600 S. Limit Ave.

7:30 p.m.: Central Missouri Harley Owners Group Sedalia Chapter, Yeager’s Cycle Sales, 3001 S. Limit Ave.

7:30 p.m.: Sedalia Park Band at Convention Hall in Liberty Park. Event is free and open to all.

8 p.m.: Sedalia Alcoholic Anonymous, 517 S. Lafayette Ave., meets Thursday and Saturday (both are open meetings and non-smoking). For more information call 660-826-9608.

FRIDAY

Noon: Pettis County Pachyderms, Best Western State Fair Inn, 3120 S. Limit Ave.

Noon: Prayer for the Nation at Antioch Fellowship, 507 W. 24th St.

3 to 6 p.m.: Sedalia Area Farmers’ Market, on Missouri State Fairgrounds by Centennial Gate along South Limit Avenue.

7 p.m.: Bunceton Senior Dance Melody Makers Band will perform; bring finger food. Dance at Bunceton Lions Club. Cost, $4 per person.

7 p.m.: State Fair Saddle Club, Central Missouri Electric Cooperative, U.S. Highway 65. Carry-in dinner.

SATURDAY

10 a.m.: Animal FAIR Adoption Day Cats and dogs will be available for adoption, at Tractor Supply, 3901 W. Broadway Blvd.

7 p.m.: Sedalia West Central Missouri Archaeological Society, Farm Credit Services, 2600 S. Limit Ave.

8 p.m.: Sedalia Alcoholic Anonymous, 517 S. Lafayette Ave., meets Thursday and Saturday (both are open meetings and non-smoking). For more information call 660-826-9608.

SUNDAY

Noon and 7 p.m.: Alcoholic Anonymous 12×12 Non-smoking group Noon and 7 p.m. Monday through Sunday; at 118 E. Main St., Sedalia, 660-829-2527.

7 p.m.: Narcotics Anonymous Because We Care also meets at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday; First Christian Church, 200 S. Limit Ave. For more information, call 221-2221.

During the Robert Woolery Sr. Memorial Pow Wow, Monica Jacome, of Los Angels, California, Miss UCLA, and Crown Princess, watches the Intertribal Dance Saturday afternoon in the Ag Building on the Missouri State Fairgrounds. Jacome said she was dancing representing the Kumeyaay Tribe. The annual event, which began Friday, is provided by the Native American Council for Cultural Awareness.

Mike Scheiblhofer, of Omaha, Nebraska, dances in the sacred circle in the Intertribal Dance, wearing fancy dancer regalia, Saturday afternoon during the Memorial Pow Wow at the fairgrounds. Scheiblhofer, who has attended the Pow Wow many times, said he was a friend of event emcee Bob Woolery.

The 2017 Robert Woolery Sr. Memorial Pow Wow Princess Chante Falcon, of Los Angeles, California, walks with dancers during the Intertribal Dance Saturday afternoon. Falcon was wearing a jingle dress featuring 365 jingles. She said each piece of her regalia, including the jingles, were handmade and hand-beaded. Michele Woolery, a member of the Pow Wow board, said they expected more than 100 dancers for the Grand Entry Dance at 7 p.m.

Anthony Autry, of Desoto, wears grass dancer regalia as he dances in the Memorial Pow Wow Intertribal Dance Saturday afternoon. Autry is the nephew of longtime Pow Wow Emcee Bob Woolery.

Triplets, Henley Curry, left, Vivi Curry and Jersey Curry, of Kansas City, look over a grizzly bear rug outside the Ag Building during the Memorial Pow Wow on Saturday. The girls are the granddaughters of David and Emma Curry, center, of Sedalia. During the annual Pow Wow many vendors set up their wares both inside and outside the Ag Building. “I think the Pow Wow is one of the most splendid things in Sedalia,” Emma Curry said. “It’s a gift to us all.”

A true family-oriented event, a young boy dances with adults during the Intertribal Dance Saturday afternoon at the annual Memorial Pow Wow on the Missouri State Fairgrounds. The event, which began Friday, was hosted through Sunday afternoon.

During the Robert Woolery Sr. Memorial Pow Wow, Monica Jacome, of Los Angels, California, Miss UCLA, and Crown Princess, watches the Intertribal Dance Saturday afternoon in the Ag Building on the Missouri State Fairgrounds. Jacome said she was dancing representing the Kumeyaay Tribe. The annual event, which began Friday, is provided by the Native American Council for Cultural Awareness.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071717PowWow-1.jpgDuring the Robert Woolery Sr. Memorial Pow Wow, Monica Jacome, of Los Angels, California, Miss UCLA, and Crown Princess, watches the Intertribal Dance Saturday afternoon in the Ag Building on the Missouri State Fairgrounds. Jacome said she was dancing representing the Kumeyaay Tribe. The annual event, which began Friday, is provided by the Native American Council for Cultural Awareness. Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Mike Scheiblhofer, of Omaha, Nebraska, dances in the sacred circle in the Intertribal Dance, wearing fancy dancer regalia, Saturday afternoon during the Memorial Pow Wow at the fairgrounds. Scheiblhofer, who has attended the Pow Wow many times, said he was a friend of event emcee Bob Woolery.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071717PowWow-2-.jpgMike Scheiblhofer, of Omaha, Nebraska, dances in the sacred circle in the Intertribal Dance, wearing fancy dancer regalia, Saturday afternoon during the Memorial Pow Wow at the fairgrounds. Scheiblhofer, who has attended the Pow Wow many times, said he was a friend of event emcee Bob Woolery. Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

The 2017 Robert Woolery Sr. Memorial Pow Wow Princess Chante Falcon, of Los Angeles, California, walks with dancers during the Intertribal Dance Saturday afternoon. Falcon was wearing a jingle dress featuring 365 jingles. She said each piece of her regalia, including the jingles, were handmade and hand-beaded. Michele Woolery, a member of the Pow Wow board, said they expected more than 100 dancers for the Grand Entry Dance at 7 p.m.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071717PowWow-3-.jpgThe 2017 Robert Woolery Sr. Memorial Pow Wow Princess Chante Falcon, of Los Angeles, California, walks with dancers during the Intertribal Dance Saturday afternoon. Falcon was wearing a jingle dress featuring 365 jingles. She said each piece of her regalia, including the jingles, were handmade and hand-beaded. Michele Woolery, a member of the Pow Wow board, said they expected more than 100 dancers for the Grand Entry Dance at 7 p.m. Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Anthony Autry, of Desoto, wears grass dancer regalia as he dances in the Memorial Pow Wow Intertribal Dance Saturday afternoon. Autry is the nephew of longtime Pow Wow Emcee Bob Woolery.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071717PowWow-4.jpgAnthony Autry, of Desoto, wears grass dancer regalia as he dances in the Memorial Pow Wow Intertribal Dance Saturday afternoon. Autry is the nephew of longtime Pow Wow Emcee Bob Woolery. Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Triplets, Henley Curry, left, Vivi Curry and Jersey Curry, of Kansas City, look over a grizzly bear rug outside the Ag Building during the Memorial Pow Wow on Saturday. The girls are the granddaughters of David and Emma Curry, center, of Sedalia. During the annual Pow Wow many vendors set up their wares both inside and outside the Ag Building. “I think the Pow Wow is one of the most splendid things in Sedalia,” Emma Curry said. “It’s a gift to us all.”

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071717PowWow-5.jpgTriplets, Henley Curry, left, Vivi Curry and Jersey Curry, of Kansas City, look over a grizzly bear rug outside the Ag Building during the Memorial Pow Wow on Saturday. The girls are the granddaughters of David and Emma Curry, center, of Sedalia. During the annual Pow Wow many vendors set up their wares both inside and outside the Ag Building. “I think the Pow Wow is one of the most splendid things in Sedalia,” Emma Curry said. “It’s a gift to us all.” Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

A true family-oriented event, a young boy dances with adults during the Intertribal Dance Saturday afternoon at the annual Memorial Pow Wow on the Missouri State Fairgrounds. The event, which began Friday, was hosted through Sunday afternoon.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071717PowWow-6.jpgA true family-oriented event, a young boy dances with adults during the Intertribal Dance Saturday afternoon at the annual Memorial Pow Wow on the Missouri State Fairgrounds. The event, which began Friday, was hosted through Sunday afternoon. Photos by Faith Bemiss | Democrat

Saturday was a typical hot, hazy summer afternoon in Pettis County, but for many who attend the Car, Truck and Tractor Show hosted in conjunction with the Smithton Town and Country Fair, the day brought back memories of days gone by, family vacations with the top down and cruising on summer nights in their youth.

“I’ve had it for 40 years now,” Robert “Boomer” Smith said of his 1929 ivory Ford delivery wagon. “But this is the first year I’ve ever taken it on the road.

“I started working on cars since the early ’70s,” he added. “I’ve had the ’29 done for a time but I always keep doing little things to it.”

Both Smith and a number of the men at the event said they didn’t really like saying their vehicles were restored’ but rather customized as there are individual changes and preferences that some chose to make to their vehicles.

Joe Schultz, one of the event organizers, has worked on a number of car customizations in his life. When asked to pick a favorite from among the 25-plus entries, his response was a simple one.

“I love them all,” he said with a laugh. “If it runs and makes noise then I like it.”

When one thinks of cruising, music probably comes to mind and ironically enough, the idea of the car show was conceived to help with Smithton’s Show Choir.

“Being a member of a show choir can cost so much,” Jim Carson, co-organizer for the event, said. “Sometimes one outfit alone can be more than $145.

“That doesn’t count the entry fees and other items,” he added. “So this will help them.”

The event had a $5 per vehicle entry fee. The winners, whose names were not available at press time, were chosen by popular vote of a penny per vote.

“Before 10 (a.m.), which is when they were supposed to start to register, we already had 15 vehicles so we’re really pleased with the response we’ve gotten so far,” Schultz said. “We’re doing this for the kids, when you work with them at the school you really grow to care for them and you want the best for them.”

Both Schultz, who is the head of maintenance at Smithton R-VI Schools, and Carson, who works in the department, explained their desire to help with the event.

Smithton vocal music instructor Cal Bergdorff was grateful for the men’s help and idea.

“When they asked me about it last year I thought it was a great idea,” Bergdorff said. “They really have done all of the work but we are all grateful for what they have done for the students.”

This brings us back to days past.

Smith and Gene Woolery, who entered his 1940 Chevrolet, spent a portion of their morning sitting under the shade of a tent while the aroma of the Fair’s Barbecue Competition filled the air, reminiscing about their younger days and life.

“My parents had an old Chevrolet when I was younger,” Woolery said. “That’s why I wanted this one.

“I’ve done some others since I started working on them around 1995,” he added. “I didn’t start to drive them until about 2001 though.”

Woolery commented that he enjoyed traveling with his wife and grandchildren in his car, at times heading out on the highway to Springfield and the Kansas Speedway.

“I started with cars back when I was a sophomore in high school,” Smith recalled. “I loved the old cars then and cruising around and I still do.”

A 1940 Cheverolet, owned by Gene Woolery, was one of a number of vehicles entered in the Smithton Car, Truck and Tractor Show Saturday morning. The event, hosted in conjunction with the Smithton Town and Country Fair near the Smithton City Park, was a fundraiser for the Smithton Show Choir.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_tsd071717carshow1.jpgA 1940 Cheverolet, owned by Gene Woolery, was one of a number of vehicles entered in the Smithton Car, Truck and Tractor Show Saturday morning. The event, hosted in conjunction with the Smithton Town and Country Fair near the Smithton City Park, was a fundraiser for the Smithton Show Choir. Photos by Hope Lecchi | Democrat

Joe Schultz, one of the event organizers of the Smithton Car, Truck and Tractor Show, hosted Saturday morning at the Smithton City Park, is the owner of the 1952 Ford truck pictured. Schultz, who has worked on a number of vehicles, said that if it runs and makes noise, he will love the vehicle.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_tsd071717carshow2.jpgJoe Schultz, one of the event organizers of the Smithton Car, Truck and Tractor Show, hosted Saturday morning at the Smithton City Park, is the owner of the 1952 Ford truck pictured. Schultz, who has worked on a number of vehicles, said that if it runs and makes noise, he will love the vehicle. Photos by Hope Lecchi | Democrat

Pictured is a 1939 Chevrolet owned by Cletus and Carol Tagtmeyer of Smithton. The couple brought the car Thursday evening for the Smithton Town and Country Fair Parade but had also entered the car at the Car, Truck and Tractor Show hosted Saturday morning at the Smithton City Park. Winners of the event were chosen by popular vote of a penny for vote at the event.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_tsd071717carshow4.jpgPictured is a 1939 Chevrolet owned by Cletus and Carol Tagtmeyer of Smithton. The couple brought the car Thursday evening for the Smithton Town and Country Fair Parade but had also entered the car at the Car, Truck and Tractor Show hosted Saturday morning at the Smithton City Park. Winners of the event were chosen by popular vote of a penny for vote at the event. Photos by Hope Lecchi | Democrat

A 1929 Ford delivery wagon, owned by Richard “Boomer” Smith, was a crowd favorite at the Smithton Car, Truck and Tractor Show hosted Saturday. Organizers registered more than 20 vehicles at the event, which was a fundraiser for the Smithton High School Show Choir.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_tsd071717carshow5.jpgA 1929 Ford delivery wagon, owned by Richard “Boomer” Smith, was a crowd favorite at the Smithton Car, Truck and Tractor Show hosted Saturday. Organizers registered more than 20 vehicles at the event, which was a fundraiser for the Smithton High School Show Choir. Photos by Hope Lecchi | Democrat

Spectators at the Smithton Car, Truck and Tractor Show admire one of a number of vehicles at the event hosted from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Smithton City Park. The show was hosted in conjunction with the 50th Smithton Town and Country Fair. Many of those in attendance stayed for lunch at the Barbecue Contest where guests could get a pulled pork sandwich, chips and a drink for $2.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_tsd071717carshow6.jpgSpectators at the Smithton Car, Truck and Tractor Show admire one of a number of vehicles at the event hosted from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Smithton City Park. The show was hosted in conjunction with the 50th Smithton Town and Country Fair. Many of those in attendance stayed for lunch at the Barbecue Contest where guests could get a pulled pork sandwich, chips and a drink for $2. Photos by Hope Lecchi | Democrat

Four out-of-town people were arrested early Thursday morning in connection with a burglary at a Sedalia business.

According to a Sedalia Police Department news release, two SPD officers were on routine patrol in the area of West Main Street when they heard an alarm at Liquor Locker, 513 W. Main St. Initial investigation revealed the business had recently been broken into as the drive-thru window was broken out.

SPD contact the business’ management, who responded to the scene and provided officers with video footage. The release states a white Ford Edge with a clear license plate number was visible, as was a white man breaking the window and entering the business. The female driver could also be seen.

Information was sent to officers and shortly after receiving the information, an officer in the area of 16th Street and Grand Avenue observed the suspect vehicle leaving a business in the area. He stopped the vehicle, which had four subjects inside. Investigation revealed it was the same vehicle involved in the burglary. All four subjects were arrested.

Christopher M. Evans, 18, of St. Joseph, has been charged with second degree burglary, second degree property damage, and stealing. He has been issued a $5,000 bond, cash or surety. An arraignment took place Friday morning.

Christina A. White, 17, of St. Joseph, has been charged with stealing and second degree burglary. She has been issued a $5,000 bond, cash or surety. An arraignment took place Friday morning.

Cassidy R. Doll, 22, of Stover, has been charged with second degree burglary, second degree property damage, and stealing. He has been issued a $5,000 bond, cash or surety. An arraignment took place Friday morning.

Evans, White and Doll were all taken to the Pettis County Jail while a fourth subject, a 17-year-old female, was taken to the SPD station to be interviewed by a detective.

According to the release, she confessed to being in the vehicle when the burglary happened. She also mentioned another business within Pettis County or the City of Sedalia that had also been burglarized and an undetermined amount of money was taken. Jones was later taken to the jail.

Online court records do not show any formal charges for the fourth subject.

Anyone with any information regarding these burglaries is encouraged to contact SPD Detective Travis St Cyr at 660-827-7823 ext. 1212 or SPD at 660-826-8100.

Cassidy Doll

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_Doll.jpgCassidy Doll

Christopher Evans

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_Evans.jpgChristopher Evans

Christina White

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_White.jpgChristina White

The Sedalia City Council will be voting on several housekeeping items during Monday night’s meeting, but will hear two important presentations.

During the pre-council meeting, council will hear a monthly financial update and “related issues” from Finance Director Kelvin Shaw, the meeting agenda states. Council will also hear a code enforcement update.

Mayor Stephen Galliher will present an award during the regular meeting to Parks and Recreation Director Mark Hewett for retiring after 17 years and 11 months of service.

During the meeting council will also:

• Review an ordinance amending Ordinance No. 10126 regarding the agreements with Ideker Inc. and the State Block Grant Agreement with the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for the reconstruction of 5,000 feet of Runway 18-36 and replacement of the MIRL system at the Sedalia Regional Airport. According to information in the meeting packet, this is needed to ratify the 2013 signatures and approvals.

• Review an ordinance approving and accepting Amendment No. 1 to the State Block Grant Agreement with the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission regarding reconstruction of Runway 18-36 at the airport. According to the meeting packet, this allows for the extension of the time needed to complete the work from Dec. 30, 2014, to Dec. 30, 2017.

• Review a bid of $50,712.27 and an ordinance approving and accepting an agreement with Do-Rite Construction & Excavating for the streetlight conduit installation project along Mitchell Road.

• Review an ordinance approving and accepting a facilities solutions agreement with Cintas for uniform service for all Public Works Departments. According to the meeting packet, to save money the agreement was reached through the U.S. Communities Government Purchasing Alliance Cooperative Purchase Agreement. The estimated cost for the first year is $37,000.

• Review an ordinance adding Section 4-96 to the Code of Ordinances regarding temporary permit for liquor by the drink and sale of intoxicating liquor in the original package for special events and adding said fee to the city’s fee schedule. According to the meeting packet, this will make upcoming downtown Sedalia events possible.

• Review an ordinance amending Section 2-72 of the Code of Ordinances relating to the composition of council departmental committees. According to the meeting packet, this will update language dealing with these committees.

• Review a records destruction request from the Personnel Department.

The Sedalia City Council pre-meeting will begin at 6 p.m. in the mayor’s conference room with a closed session for legal advice and personnel matters in a joint meeting with the Pettis County Commission immediately following. The regular meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in council chambers at the Municipal Building, 200 S. Osage Ave. For more information, call 827-3000.

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Former Sedalian Sylvia Thompson will present a one-woman show Thursday evening that will address hunger issues in the local area.

Thompson, who now resides in Sedona, Arizona, arrived in Sedalia late last week. She will give her presentation, “Hunger has a Voice!” for the Hunger Dinner hosted by Open Door Service Center Inc.

Thompson said Friday the presentation was written specifically for the fundraising dinner by herself and Open Door Co-Director Sally Lockett. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Open Door Soup Kitchen.

“Sally and I have stories from the Internet, we have statistics, worldwide and United States and some Missouri statistics, about hunger,” she added. “Then we have some of our own stories. Her stories at the Food Bank, my stories in travels and in life.”

Although this is her first one-woman show, Thompson isn’t new to acting. While living in Sedalia she performed at the Hayden Liberty Center and State Fair Community College. While living at the Lake of the Ozarks she performed with the Lake Area Performing Arts Guild and also in Jefferson City.

“I have performed in seven countries, including the United States, either singing or speaking,” she added. “I’m a storyteller, an actor, a singer, pianist, motivational speaker.”

Thompson is also a Reiki master, a certified therapist and an ordained minister.

“Mostly these days, I’m a speaker-storyteller at metaphysical conferences,” she added. “I speak on the power of the spoken word and how it affects you. I speak on manifestation, it means with the right thoughts … you can bring into your life anything that you want. In simple terms, my mother used to say ‘you find whatever you look for.’”

On Thursday her presentation will focus on poverty and hunger in Pettis County and Sedalia through what she calls reader’s theatre.

“It’s a little reading, a little acting,” she said. “It’s focused about the plight of poverty and hunger in the United States and specifically in Pettis County and Sedalia.

“As rich as this country is, we shouldn’t have hunger in the United States or anywhere in the world,” Thompson added. “(Hunger) is in the Midwest now and the numbers are appalling … the percentage of the population that are hungry and or homeless.”

Thompson said she has been a volunteer with The Power of One for several years. Volunteering with the organization led her to see poverty and hunger in a new light and prompted her to try and help others.

“It’s based on the premise that one person can make a difference in the world,” she added.

Thompson traveled with The Power of One 10 times to Thailand and to Bochabela, South Africa, to an AIDS village for children. She was overwhelmed by the hunger and poverty she saw during the trips.

“I was one of the storytellers,” she noted. “I would tell them bedtime stories before they went to bed. I saw a level of hunger in South Africa that I didn’t know really existed. I saw these beautiful little children, happy smiling faces … many who had been raped, many who had AIDS, many who lost parents to AIDS. These people were doing the best they could to feed these children.”

In dealing with the people and children in Bochabela, she found them to be “gracious and beautiful” and “filled with gratitude.”

“It struck a cord in me,” she noted. “I knew children were starving in Africa all my life … but I am seeing children starving now.”

She said she began to realize there are hungry and starving people at home in Sedalia.

“I think that’s an abomination,” Thompson added. “Not the people, but the fact that they are starving. It shouldn’t be happening in this country. It’s not right, so whatever I can do. One person can make a difference. Maybe by helping Sally it will strike a cord to somebody else, like pay it forward, like a domino effect.”

The Open Door Service Center Inc. Hunger Dinner featuring actor Sylvia Thompson will be hosted at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Cornerstone Baptist Church, 19856 state Route Y. Those attending may dress casual. The cost is $30 per person or $200 for a table of eight. To reserve a table call 660-827-1613.

Sylvia Thompson

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071717SylviaThompson.jpgSylvia Thompson

The Bombers won Sunday evening against the Clarinda A’s at Liberty Park Stadium, holding the lead almost the entire game.

The A’s tied the Bombers 2-2 in the third inning, but the Bombers responded with four more runs, including a home run from Dalton Horstmeier.

The Bombers went into the fourth inning leading the A’s 6-2. The A’s scored another three runs in the sixth, but the Bombers held their lead to a 9-6 victory at home.

Louis Niemerg and Gavin Jones both contributed two runs to the final score, with Dev Wilson, Andrew Warner, Horstmeier, Tyson Cushman and Andrew Brooks each getting one run. Pitcher Cody Whiting picked up the win.

The Bombers are now 21-13, a seven-game win streak for Sedalia. They will face the Chillicothe Mudcats at 7 p.m. Monday at Liberty Park Stadium.

Dalton Horstmeier makes his way to third base as he rounds the bases after scoring a home run in the third inning against the Clarinda A’s at Liberty Park Stadium on Sunday evening.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071717Bombers.jpgDalton Horstmeier makes his way to third base as he rounds the bases after scoring a home run in the third inning against the Clarinda A’s at Liberty Park Stadium on Sunday evening. Photos by Nicole Cooke | Democrat

Cody Whiting throws a pitch Sunday evening at Liberty Park Stadium against the Clarinda A’s.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071717Bombers2.jpgCody Whiting throws a pitch Sunday evening at Liberty Park Stadium against the Clarinda A’s. Photos by Nicole Cooke | Democrat

Mitch Barrow heads to second base as teammate Trey Harris runs to first base in the second inning Sunday evening against the Clarinda A’s.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_TSD071717Bombers3.jpgMitch Barrow heads to second base as teammate Trey Harris runs to first base in the second inning Sunday evening against the Clarinda A’s. Photos by Nicole Cooke | Democrat

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

July 13

11:25 p.m.: Joshua James Corpier, 33, of the 2200 block of South Ohio Avenue, was arrested at his residence on charges of harassment and fourth degree assault. Officers responded to a report of a domestic assault. The male victim said the suspect and a witness were verbally arguing. The suspect grabbed a glass ash tray and threw it toward the victim and witness, shattering on the wall next to the victim. The victim said he was cut by some of the glass.

July 14

10:53 p.m.: Ricky L. Bailey II, 28, of the 33000 block of Walnut School Road, was arrested in the 700 block of East Broadway Boulevard on charges of driving with a suspended license, failure to maintain financial responsibility and failure to register annually with the Department of Revenue.

Incidents

July 13

11:01 p.m.: A 1995 Toyota Tacoma was reported stolen from the road in front of a residence in the 1500 block of South Stewart Avenue.

Pettis County Sheriff’s Office

Arrests

July 13

12:32 p.m.: Kimberly Farmer was arrested in the 1500 block of Crestview Drive in Sedalia on a charge of first degree trespassing.

Incidents

July 13

10:40 a.m.: A John Deere tractor was reported stolen in the 20000 block of Taney Road in Sedalia.

Missouri State Highway Patrol

Arrests

July 14

8 p.m.: Stephen J. Schaffer, 28, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was arrested in Morgan County on charges of allowing a person to ride on gunnel and boating while intoxicated.

July 15

12:18 p.m.: Joshua C. Forbes, 26, of Westfield, was arrested in Saline County on charges of possession of a controlled substance (butane hash oil) and possession of up to 35 grams of marijuana.

7 p.m.: Adam J. Wolken, 25, of Jefferson City, was arrested in Morgan County on charges of boating while intoxicated and careless operation of a vessel.

July 16

10:46 a.m.: Clinton T. Selle, 27, of Wichita, Kansas, was arrested in Saline County on charges of possession of a controlled substance (butane hash oil) and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

10:48 a.m.: Kirsten E. Delauretis, 26, of Clearwater, Kansas, was arrested in Saline County on charges of possession of a controlled substance (butane hash oil) and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

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Woman seriously injured

A Harrisonville woman sustained serious injuries in a two-vehicle accident at 11:56 a.m. Saturday in Benton County.

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol report, Tina M. Hillman, 42, was driving south on state Route 7 at state Route PP when she over-corrected and her vehicle crossed the center of the road, where it traveled off the left side of the road. Christopher R. Marsh, 45, of Linn Creek, was driving north and swerved to avoid Hillman’s vehicle, causing his vehicle to travel off the right side of the road.

Hillman was taken by Life Flight to Mercy Hospital in Springfield for her injuries.

Reports indicate Hillman was wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, but Marsh was not.

Belton man injured in Johnson

A Belton man sustained moderate injuries in a single-vehicle accident at 4:41 p.m. Saturday in Johnson County.

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol report, George L. Lowe, 83, was driving a motorcycle south on state Route T at Southwest 800 Road, when he failed to negotiate a curve. His vehicle then overturned and left the roadway.

Lowe, who was wearing a helmet, was taken to Research Medical Center in Kansas City for his injuries.

Man hurt in Saline County crash

A Denver, Pennsylvania, man sustained moderate injuries in a single-vehicle accident at 8:10 p.m. Saturday in Saline County.

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol report, Michael Felter, 64, was driving a semi-truck west on Interstate 70 at the 62 mile marker when his vehicle traveled off the right side of the road, striking the guardrail. Felter over-corrected and his vehicle overturned.

Felter, who was wearing a seat belt, was taken by Sweet Springs Ambulance District to Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence for his injuries.

Four injured in Warrensburg crash

Four people sustained minor injuries in a two-vehicle accident at 9:40 p.m. Saturday in Johnson County.

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol report, Shakoda R. Whitworth, 16, of Warrensburg, was driving south on Business 13 when Zachary M. Mast, 35, of Kansas City, Kansas, driving west on Hawthorne Boulevard, pulled into the path of Whitworth’s vehicle. Both vehicles traveled off the west side of the road.

Whitworth and two passengers in her vehicle, Christine N. Case, 18, of Centerview, and Sammi K. O’Rourke, 17, of Warrensburg, were all taken by Johnson County Ambulance District to Western Missouri Medical Center in Warrensburg for their injuries. Mast was also taken by JCAD to WMMC.

Reports indicate all four people were wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.

Woman seriously injured in Morgan

A Gravois Mills woman sustained serious injuries in a single-vehicle accident at 3:43 a.m. Sunday in Morgan County.

According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol report, Jared P. Wright, 20, of Stover, was driving south on state Route T, about 100 feet south of Campbell Drive, when his passenger, Sequoia Tores, 19, climbed onto the roof. Tores fell off the roof and onto the road, while the vehicle traveled off the right side of the road and struck a ditch.

Tores was taken by Staff for Life to University Hospital in Columbia for her injuries.

Reports indicate Wright was not wearing a seat belt.

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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For many who own property, keeping their homes and lawns attractive is a priority, but no matter how hard one tries, mother nature and her minions may have other plans.

While not cute and adorable like those from the popular movie franchise, theses minions are rather “despicable” in the havoc and damage they can create to some area plants and landscapes. Japanese beetles are back and in large numbers, according to Jonathan Rear, of Moore’s Greenhouse and Flower Shop.

“It seems they are really a problem this year,” Rear said. “We’ve been receiving numerous calls regarding them.”

The beetles emerge from the ground, typically in mid-June, remaining for about six to eight weeks each summer.

The lifespan of the insects averages between 30 to 45 days but is dependent on the food supply, of which there is an abundance of in Pettis County.

“The beetles feed on tree leaves, fruits and flowers,” Rear commented. “In our area they tend to migrate toward roses and cannas but they can attack almost any plant.”

The Old Farmer’s Almanac lists a number of plants the insects seem to gravitate to, many of which are common to the area.

“Japanese beetle larvae seem to be especially fond of grass and other garden plant roots,” the Almanac states. “The adults like fruit, shade trees, roses, shrubs, asparagus, corn, soybeans, and a number of other vegetables, especially plant parts exposed to the sun.

“They generally do not like cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, eggplants, onions, lettuce, parsley, peas, potatoes, radishes, spinach, squash, sweet potatoes, tomatoes and turnips,” the Almanac continues. “They also tend to avoid geraniums as geraniums can be deadly to Japanese beetles.”

While it’s too late in the season for many to plant a garden, there are methods that can be used to help control the infestations.

“The problem with Japanese beetles is you generally have to treat them while they are active,” Rear said. “They have a natural defense mechanism and whenever they are threatened they drop to the ground, making them hard to catch.

“We’ve been recommending the use of Neem Oil because it works like an insecticidal soap,” he explained. “It kills the beetles on contact.”

The product, available at local nurseries, some box stores and online, may also repel the insects from sprayed plants.

Insecticidal soaps also have been found to be effective, but they need to be sprayed directly on the insect for the greatest chance of killing the insect.

Although there is no guarantee an affected tree or plant will survive after being infested with Japanese beetles, Rear recommended waiting before removing the tree immediately.

“It depends on the size and age of the tree and the extent of the damage,” Rear said. “The beetles eat all of the tissue between the veins of the leaves, which causes them not to be able to photosythesize.

“The complete lack of photosynthesis eventually will kill any plant,” he added.

To try to protect trees from dying, the Missouri Department of Conservation recommends watering trees two to three times a month during drought conditions, and protect the trees as much as possible from damage caused by mowers and weed trimmers.

For more information about the control and treatment of Japanese beetles, visit mdc.mo.gov.

An older, well-established tree on the Missouri State Fairgrounds shows the effects of Japanese beetles Monday morning. Typical of the insects’ feeding pattern, the beetles start eating the leaves of most trees from the top region before working their way down to the lower branches. Well-established trees can survive the damage but providing an adequate supply of water during drought conditions is vital for the tree’s future survival.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_tsd071817japanesebeetles1.jpgAn older, well-established tree on the Missouri State Fairgrounds shows the effects of Japanese beetles Monday morning. Typical of the insects’ feeding pattern, the beetles start eating the leaves of most trees from the top region before working their way down to the lower branches. Well-established trees can survive the damage but providing an adequate supply of water during drought conditions is vital for the tree’s future survival. Photos by Hope Lecchi | Democrat

Pictured Monday morning at the Missouri State Fairgrounds are fallen leaves after being devoured by Japanese beetles. The beetles skeletonize the leaves by eating the soft tissue of the leaves, leaving the veins and stems of the leaves intact.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_tsd071817japanesebeetles2.jpgPictured Monday morning at the Missouri State Fairgrounds are fallen leaves after being devoured by Japanese beetles. The beetles skeletonize the leaves by eating the soft tissue of the leaves, leaving the veins and stems of the leaves intact. Photos by Hope Lecchi | Democrat

One of a number of trees on the Missouri State Fairgrounds that has been damaged by Japanese beetles is pictured Monday morning. The beetles typically arrive in the area in mid-June and are gone by mid- to late August. The insects are known to feed on more than 300 types of trees and plants. Many landowners throughout Pettis County have reported damage from the insects this growing season.

http://www.sedaliademocrat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/web1_tsd071817japanesebeetles3.jpgOne of a number of trees on the Missouri State Fairgrounds that has been damaged by Japanese beetles is pictured Monday morning. The beetles typically arrive in the area in mid-June and are gone by mid- to late August. The insects are known to feed on more than 300 types of trees and plants. Many landowners throughout Pettis County have reported damage from the insects this growing season. Photos by Hope Lecchi | Democrat