 The City of Holden Board of Public Works approved a balanced budget for fiscal year 2007-2008 at their regular monthly meeting held last Tuesday night at the offices of O & M Enterprises.
The document, which will be submitted to the Holden City Council, was originally proposed with a $6,800 deficit, but was brought into balance using $7,500 of depreciation and replacement costs for the year. The board stated they would complete a rate study in the future and amend the budget if necessary.
The budget calls for total revenues of $1,231, 230.08 which includes $417,381.45 from water fees and $282,083.52 from sewer fees. Total revenues from water sources were $541,910.90 and $689,391.18 form sewer sources.
Of the expenses, the budget calls for a payment of $462,099.79 to O & M Enterprises for operation of the city’s water and sewer systems.
In another area of business at the regular meeting, it was reported that All State, Meco and Shafer, Kline and Warren were the three engineering firms that responded to the board’s notice seeking engineering qualifications. There will be a special meeting tonight (Thursday, June 14) at 7 p.m. at O & M to discuss the submittals.
It was also reported that the aerators at the lagoon have been repaired. In order to be in compliance with the new ammonia regulations, the aerators have to run continuously, which in turn increases the electric bill by several hundred dollars.
In a final item, it was reported that there is a $10,000 grand available that would fund a complete study of the city’s water system by an engineer. The grant is in response to the state’s desire to have communities investing money in water system upgrades, bringing them in line with present standards. The board agreed to submit paperwork for the grant to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
By Steve Sullins
Editor
Wade Lininger, representative of Sam A. Winn & Associates Architects, informed the Holden R-III School Board that 90 percent of the demolition phase of the HHS construction and renovation project has been completed.
His comments were made after district superintendent Scott Slava showed a slide presentation outlining the demolition progress from June 1 to June 11 at the board’s regular meeting held Monday night in the intermediate school library.
Lininger added that the construction crew was moving forward and should be completed with demolition this week. He also stated that reconstruction for the new administration offices had already begun and that the contractor had set a very aggressive schedule to get students back in the building in August.
He said that they were hopeful that weather condition would stay favorable and supplies would be delivered in a timely manner so they could keep on schedule.
School board president Jeff Miller added, “We’re making great progress,” and Slava affirmed that the district will start on time in August.
Interior color schemes were also approved by the board. They will be variations of blue, white, off-white and gray.
In other business, the board approved a continuation agreement with the City of Holden for the school resource officer. The agreement will remain in effect from August 27, 2007 through May 29, 2008 and provide for a Holden police officer to give law enforcement services to the school district. As part of the agreement, the district will pay two-thirds of the officers salary.
Slava also supported a suggestion by auxiliary services director Larry Arnone that all school buses be parked in the school’s lot when not in route or on a trip beginning with the 2007-2008 school year.
Slava said that there are many good reasons for doing this, but one of the most important is that they simply need the buses to be located at the school because of having so many activities that the buses would be needed for.
In his other reports, Arnone explained the district’s long-range facility needs. Project needs included those in athletic facilities, instructional facilities and roofing issues as well as aesthetics. He stated that as funds became available they would address each need.
During his auxiliary services report, Arnone told the board that as of the end of May, there was a $36,113 profit in food service. He said there would be one more report in the next regular meeting. He also said that work continues on the wrought iron fencing at the athletic complex and that lanes seven and eight of the track will be repaired during the summer months. The director also outlined his custodial schedule for deep-cleaning in all the school’s buildings.
In her extra-curricular activities programs report, district activities director Kelli Spies stated that every level of extracurricular activities increased in participation with the exception of fall sports, which dropped from 20 percent last year to 18 percent this year. During highlights of the year’s athletics and activities she stated that it was a very successful year, but she was especially proud of the school being designated a MSHSAA Leadership School for the fourth year in a row.
“I feel that our students participating in the activities are very well coached and sponsored. I attribute this to coaching consistency.”
She also said that the letter jacket business that has been previously
handled by Country Creations will be taken over by the Future Business Leaders of America club.
Other reports given at the meeting included a federal programs report by Donna Fizer, and handbook updates by Robin Sisk, Mark Hedger, Gregg Montgomery as well as other administrators.
In final items, a special board meeting was set for June 28 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss budget issues and the July regular meeting was rescheduled from July 9 to July 16 at 6:30 p.m. There will also be a board walk-through of the HHS construction project at 5:30 p.m. before the regular meeting.
By Steve Sullins
Editor
The Oasis Aquatic Center, LLC is now open for fun in the summer sun. The Oasis opened on June 1 and will offer many different activities and classes this summer, according to owner Connie Plemons. Plemons and her husband Dan own the pool.
Daily admission is as follows: children three and under, free; youth four through 17, $2; adults, $3; senior citizens, $2.50. One may purchase a punch pass which allows 20 trips to the pool. Punch pass fees are $30 for youth; $38 for adults; and $28 for senior citizens.
Pool hours are: morning laps, Monday through Friday 8-10 a.m.; daily 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday nights are lap swims beginning at 7 p.m.; after 5:30 p.m. is reserved for parties and special events.
Pool rental is $75 per hour for up to 45 people; over 45 will be an additional $1.50 per person per hour and $7 per hour for extra lifeguard.
Swimming lessons are $35 per person and will be held Tuesdays, (first session) June 12 through July 10; (second session) July 17 through August 14. All classes will be taught by Leesa Greeff who brings 11 years of teaching experience to the Oasis. All ages are welcome.
Special events for June are June 5, Karaoke Night for ages 12-15 from 7-8 p.m., $5 each pre event; June 12 Cowboy Days; June 14 through July 12, evening aqua aerobics from 6-6:40 p.m.; $35 each pre event; June 14, Night for adults (over 20) $8 each or $10 per couple pre event; June 19, Flip Flop Day; June 21, Summer Beach Party from 7-9 p.m., $8 each pre event; June 28, Superman’s birthday party from 7-9 p.m., $8 each pre event; June 30, Holden Oasis mini triathlon at 6 a.m.; July events are: July 4th Independence Day; July 13, luau from 7-9 p.m., $10 per person, over 12 children, $6 each pre event; July 19, Dino Days; July 24, Fiesta, $8 per person in advance from 7-8:30 p.m.; Thursdays, aqua aerobics continue from 6-6:40 p.m.; August events are: August 2, Pirates Day; August 24, back to school bash from 7-8 p.m. each pre event; all late registration is $5 extra.
Every Monday night is family night. Bring the family and swim from 7-9 p.m. for up to four family members, only $8; over four people is $1 each.
Connie would like to invite everyone to come out to the Oasis. “Come in and enjoy the water, we will have adult nights where adults can swim without children, on occasion. We invite all ages to come and experience the fun.”
By Dana Neubert
News Staff
A group of dedicated Centerview women are making a difference in the lives of servicemen and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan by sending them homemade “Hugs”.
“Hugs” are cooling ties and head coolers made from tea-colored muslin and polymer crystals. When dipped in water, the crystals are activated and the result is a cooling effect which can lower body temperature from one to four degrees, according to volunteer June Francy.
The temperatures the servicemen and women are enduring are extreme and these “Hugs” help alleviate the heat.
Along with the “Hugs,” a treat and a special note are sent to the recipient. Francy encourages anyone who is interested in helping with the Hugs to contact her at 660-656-3507 or 660-864-3409.
“We need help sewing the Hugs, help with personal notes, and monetary donations to purchase materials and cover shipping costs,” stated Francy.
Francy added the group would like to send the Hugs to Johnson County servicemen and women and they are seeking names of those serving from this area. If anyone knows of local people who are in Iraq and Afghanistan, Francy encourages them to call her and give her their names so they can receive one of these special Hugs.
Anyone interested in helping the ladies sew the Hugs may contact Francy as well and she added there is no need to bring any materials or equipment as the group supplies all of it.
The ladies have made approximately 120 of the Hugs so far and meet once every four weeks to continue their good work.
The first recipient of the Hugs was Daniel Good of Centerview who e-mailed
that the Hugs were very much appreciated because it was already 102 degrees there.
“It’s nice for them to realize that others besides their families care for them,” said Francy.
The ladies who are participating in the Hugs project are Francy, Phyllis Steinbach, Pat Daniels, Kathryn Smith, Selena Bishop and Donna Hines.
“Cooling ties are simple to make but the benefits are dramatic. Temperatures are already topping the triple digits and each year service members die from heat stroke but we can change that fact,” said Francy.
She added the coolers can be dried, remoistened and reused repeatedly.
The ladies have also been busy sewing for the Veterans Home in Warrensburg, making bags and activity aprons for the residents.
Anyone interested in helping with the Hugs project is urged to contact Francy and get more information as they can use any kind of help they can get, she added.
“It would be nice if some children could write some personal notes to the soldiers to add to the Hugs we send. Senior Citizen Centers have helped us in that effort and we appreciate them taking the time to help,” said Francy.
Contact Francy at the above numbers or e-mail at jcfrancy@iland.net for more information on the Hugs project.
By Dana Neubert
News Staff
|
|
Gerry Pierce, Holden High School's at risk coordinator, was recently named Staff of the Quarter by his peers.
Although this is Pierce’s first year in the R-III district, he was the at risk coordinator/teacher for 13 years at Oak Grove High School and Middle School.
Along with his at risk duties Pierce also serves as a counselor for the eighth, ninth and 10th graders and works with the bridge program. He helps students who are at risk towards graduation, runs the credit recovery program along with Stacey McCune, and supervises homework club daily.
The co-worker who nominated Pierce for the honor stated, “Berry puts an incredible amount of time and energy into making sure that our students are successful.”
Pierce said, “The best part about my job is being able to help students graduate and to look beyond high school. I also get to work with incredible teachers who make my job easier.
Pierce and his wife Glenda have two sons, Dalton, 15; and Noah, 13.
Justin Shockley of Lloyd’s Foods was honored recently by the staff of The Holden Image for winning the customer service award for the month of May.
Shockley was surprised at work with candy and a plaque in honor of his achievement.
He has been with Lloyd’s Foods for one and one-half years and keeps busy carrying out groceries and stocking shelves. Shockley is 17 and a junior at Holden High School. He is the son of Denise Shockley of Holden.
Shockley says his favorite part of the job is carrying out groceries and visiting with his customers.
His future plans include staying at Lloyd’s through high school and then going to college when he graduates. He plans to go into the auto body field. His hobbies are working on his truck, which is a 1981 Silverado shortbed C-10, and fishing.
Co-owner of Lloyd's Foods, Alan Lloyd, said of Shockley, “He is a very likeable guy. He does a great job of helping people and we enjoy having him work here.”
The individual who nominated Shockley stated, “He is always very helpful, very accommodating and pleasant to visit with. He always offers to carry out my groceries for me.”
Shockley was very surprised by the award he received and didn’t even know there was a customer service award. He would like to thank the person who nominated him, saying he really appreciated the honor.
OBITUARIES
LEO RAY DECKER
Leo Ray Decker, born January 6, 1926 in Sedalia, MO in his home, passed to be with His Lord June 4, 2007, age 81 at his home in Holden, MO. Graveside services WERE Friday June 8, 2007 at 1:30 p.m. at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. Visitation WAS held Thursday June 7, 2007 from 6-8 p.m. at D.W. Newcomer's Sons Floral Hills Chapel.
Leo worked as a home builder, Borden's Dairy in Kansas City until it closed in 1969, and then working for VS DiCarlo Construction Co. as a superintendent until his retirement. He was a member of the Carpenters Local 61. Leo was a member of the Broadway Baptist Church of Sedalia. He accepted Jesus as his personal Lord and Savior as a boy, and just last week said he was going home to Heaven.
Leo was the oldest son of parents Orval R. Decker and Clara Maggie-Belle Boatcher Decker who precede him in death; he is also preceded in death by a brother Ronald Decker. Leo married Pauline Belle Vansell on November 29, 1943, they were married for 63 years and she survives of the home. Leo and Pauline had 3 children who survive him: Danny Ray Decker and wife Pam of Buckner, MO, Terry Paul Decker and wife Debbie of Panama City Beach, FL, Connie Sue Simmons and husband Fredrick of Holden, MO, grandchildren: Michael Ray Decker and wife Judy of Blue Springs, Kelly Decker of Raytown, Nicole Lehmann and husband Mike of Pleasant Hill, Matthew Decker Simmons and Elizabeth Simmons of Holden, 5 great-grandchildren, sisters: Dorothy Jean Gillis and husband Russell, Barbara Leonard and husband Harry, brother: Donald Decker and wife Virginia, and many nieces and nephews.
Fond memories and condolences for the family may be left at www.dwnewcomers.com. (Arrangements: D.W. Newcomer's Sons Floral Hills Chapel, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd., KCMO 64133, 816-353-1218)
VIVIAN GERALDINE GROOM
Vivian Geraldine Groom, age 86, Holden, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, June 6, 2007 at Western Missouri Medical Center in Warrensburg.
She was born March 12, 1921 in Merrill, Wisconsin the daughter of Floyd Ernest and Alma (Head) Shimel. She lived in Holden most of her life. On June 26, 1958 she married Kenneth Lee Groom in Strasburg, Missouri. He preceded her in death February 3, 1994.
Vivian was a graduate of Holden High School and she worked for several years at Hipsh Tie Manufacturing Company in Holden. She was a member of the Holden Community of Christ Church.
She leaves one step-daughter, Ginger Motschman and husband Chuck, Grant Pass, OR; a brother, Berl Shimel and wife Essie, Bowling Green, KY; sister-in-law, Wilma Shimel, Kingsville, MO; two step-grandchildren, Kevin Ridenhour and Kimberlie Rosenthal; four step-great-grandchildren, Joshua, Benjamin, Andrew and Hannah Ridenhour; one nephew, Charles Shimel; and four nieces, Celia Schmitt, Carolyn Miller, Ann Oliver and Linda Henry. A brother, Merlin Shimel, preceded her in death.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 9, 2007 at Ben Cast & Son - Wood Funeral Home, Holden, MO with Elder Warren Stowell officiating. The organist was Jodie Kendrick.
Pallbearers were Charles Shimel, Chad Shimel, Kevin Ridenhour, Steven Schmitt, Brett Schmitt, Kyle Miller.
Interment was in Fairview Cemetery, Holden, MO.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Holden Community of Christ
Church.
EVA MAE HIGGS
Eva Mae Higgs, age 78, Holden, Missouri, passed away Friday, June 8, 2007 at NewHaven Care Center in Odessa, Missouri.
She was born December 17, 1928 in Barry County, Missouri, the daughter of Finis Cleveland and Loie Neta (Stephenson) Prewitt. She married Marcie Edwin Higgs on April 23, 1947. He preceded her in death in 1966.
Mrs. Higgs lived in Holden and Kingsville most of her life. For 21 years she worked at Holden Manufacturing Company. She was a member of the International Ladies Garment Workers Union Local 598 and of New Hope Baptist Church in Holden.
Surviving her passing are two sons, David Higgs, Seattle, WA, and J.C. Higgs, Ocala, FL; three daughters, Marilyn Livingston and husband Bill, Ocala, FL, Carolyn Ponder, Ocala, FL, and Joyce Watson and husband Scott, Holden, MO; two brothers, Lester Prewitt, Wheaton, MO, and J.R. Prewitt and wife Rose, Columbia, MO; two sisters, Ruth Stephenson, Cassville, MO, and Virginia Prewitt, Exeter, MO; nine grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, June 15, 2007 at Ben Cast & Son - Wood Funeral Home, Holden, MO with the Reverend Jeremy Redbeard officiating. Friends may call from 1-2 p.m. Friday.
Pallbearers will be Bill Livingston, Dan Livingston, Scott Watson, Jared Watterson, Wesley Goldsmith and Josh Ludwig.
Interment will be in Holden Cemetery.
KAREN KAY HITE
Karen Kay Hite, age 63, Holden, Missouri, passed away Thursday, June 7, 2007 at home with her family at her side.
She was born September 21, 1943 in Ottumwa, Iowa the daughter of Roscoe and Mary (Mahoney) Gambell. She moved to Holden approximately 50 years ago and married Cecil Glenn Hite on May 15, 1959 in Warrensburg, Missouri.
Karen was a licensed beautician and operated Kay’s Beauty Boutique in Odessa for several years. She had also worked at Holden Manor Care Center and Pleasant Hill Manor as a certified medical technician. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Holden.
She leaves her husband, Cecil Hite, of the home; two sons, Glenn Hite, Holden, MO, and Herb Hite and wife Kathy, Raytown, MO; two daughters, Kathy Sconce and husband James, Holden, MO, and Mary Hillsman and husband Steve, Holden, MO; three brothers, Ross Gambell and wife Sharon, Independence, MO, Roger Gambell, Independence, MO; and Bob Gambell, Tulsa, OK; 10 grandchildren, Glenn Hite and wife, Racheal, Blue Springs, MO, Candice Hite, Raytown, MO, Brandon Bishop, Kansas City, MO, Tyler Sconce, Holden, MO, Matt, Ryan and Chris Hite, Raytown, MO, Malisia Martinez and husband Jared, Odessa, MO, Buddy Disney, Holden, MO, and Emily Hillsman, Holden, MO; two great-grandchildren, Olivia Hillsman, Holden, MO, and Caden Martinez, Odessa, MO; and many nieces and nephews; and her dog Romeo.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 11, 2007 at Ben Cast & Son - Wood Funeral Home, Holden, MO with the Reverend Johny Sconce officiating. Musicians were Mrs. Johny Sconce, pianist and Vicky
Stout, soloist. The family received friends on Sunday from 7-8:30 p.m.
Pallbearers were Brian Cochran, Tom Williams, Tom Haun, Loren Hite, David Summers and Dennis Booker.
Honorary pallbearers were Glenn A. Hite, Matt Hite, Ryan Hite, Chris Hite, Buddy Disney, Brandon Bishop, Tyler Sconce and Kyle Cochran.
Interment was in New Liberty Cemetery, Holden, MO.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Karen Hite Memorial Fund.
VIRGINIA B. STOYKO
Virginia B. Stoyko, age 84 years and nine months, passed away at the Laurie Care Center, Laurie, MO on June 6, 2007, where she had resided for the last two years.
She was born August 23, 1922. Mrs. Stoyko and her husband, Joseph S. Stoyko, Sr., who preceded her in death in 1986, were residents of Holden and Kingsville communities for 55 years.
Mrs. Stoyko was a homemaker, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a great-great-grandmother. Her family was the joy of her life and she will be remembered always.
Survivors include her three children, Beverly Ann Tevis, Sunrise Beach, MO, Nancy Jean Hancock and husband David, Sunrise Beach, MO, and Joseph Stoyko, Jr., Centerview, MO; eight grandchildren, Mark Tevis, Warrensburg, MO, Rusty Tevis and wife Robin, Holden, MO, Philip Tevis and wife, Amy, Holden, MO, Destry Hough and wife Cricket, Holden, MO, Lori Hancock Pollak, Osage Beach, MO, Shane Stoyko, Holden, MO, Monica Campbell and husband Steve, Holden, MO, and Eric Stoyko and wife Lisa, Holden, MO; 15 great grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren; one brother, Chester (Sonny) Etter and wife Sharon, Lewiston, Idaho; a niece, Teresa Robbins and husband Mike, Buckner, MO.
Private memorial services will be held at a later date.
|