News
Honored For All They Do-
Four local volunteers were honored for their years of dedicated service to the community Thursday, July 20, during the second annual Hickory County Community Wellness Foundation Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. These volunteers were recognized and presented trophies at the Weathered Wisdom Barn near Preston, following dinner and a performance by the County Men of Note. From left are Hal Geltmacher, Dick Rose, Joyce Worsham and Mark Sabala. Geltmacher is active with the Hickory County Library and Senior Service Board. Rose has been a part of many area organizations, including helping to found the Hickory County C.A.R.E.S. Food Pantry. Worsham aids local youth through the Child Advocacy Council, and Sabala instructs young athletes as the coach of the Hermitage cross country team and through the annual 5K race. Attendees also learned more about the Hickory County Community Wellness Foundation and volunteer efforts to enhance life in Hickory County.
Men of the Music-
Roger Mills and the County Men of Note gave a stirring performance during the Hickory County Community Wellness Foundation Volunteer Appreciation Dinner Thursday, July 20, near Preston. The men’s vocal group sang for approximately 30 minutes, receiving heavy applause for their spiritual and patriotic renditions. They finished their set with a tribute to firefighters, police and first responders.
Thank You-
Hickory County Community Wellness Foundation President, and Hickory County Library Administrator, Stacy Coulsell gives a big hug to her friend Hal Geltmacher, as he receives his community service award during the second annual volunteer appreciation dinner. Geltmacher is President of the Hickory County Library Board and very active with the McCarty Senior Center. Coulsell jokingly called him “my boss,” and said he was “one of the one of the most fair and just men I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.” Dick Rose, Joyce Worsham and Mark Sabala were also honored.
Dinner’s Ready-
Chef Jamie Hennessey and Gary Edwards helped to serve the catered meal offered during the Hickory County Community Wellness Foundation Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, held at the Weathered Wisdom Barn Thursday, July 20, near Preston. Guests were served a meal of chicken cordon bleu casserole, rice and vegetables, and salad. The meal was by donation, with proceeds supporting community grants that will be offered later this year. There was also a silent auction.
Enhancing the county’s quality of life:
Four community volunteers
recognized for years of service
Four volunteers were honored for their years of community service Thursday, July 20, at the second annual Hickory County Community Wellness Foundation (HCCWF) Volunteer Appreciation Dinner.
The Index to be delayed
As a reminder, in two weeks, The Index will be published a day later due to the upcoming Special Election.
County Tax Sale Aug. 28
The Hickory County Collector’s Office will hold the annual county tax sales Monday, Aug. 28, on the courthouse steps in Hermitage.
He’s had our back, now we have his-
Pictured above is the crowd of guests who attend the Brent Oestreich Benefit Saturday, July 22, at the Pomme de Terre Shrine Club. There were an estimated 250 people in attendance. The benefit consisted of a meal, silent auction, and live auction.
Live auction-
Guests at the Brent Oestreich benefit browse the table of live auction items Saturday, July 22, inspecting potential items they wanted to bid on. There were an estimated 74 items on the live auction table, and an estimated 250 people who attended.
Going once, going twice-
Jack Lancaster left, and Chase Crawford with Crawford Auction Services are pictured conducting the live auction at the Brent Oestreich benefit Saturday, July 22. There were an estimated 74 items in the live auction, and 250 people in the audiance. A meal was served, and a silent auction was also available.
Silent auction-
A guest at the Brent Oestriech benefit Saturday, July 22, is shown bidding on one of the multiple silent auction items. There were an estimated 40 silent auction items and approximately 250 people in attendance.
Serving line-
Volunteers at the Brent Oestreich benefit Saturday, July 22, are shown serving food to guests. The meal consisted of pulled pork, brisket, baked beans, potato salad, and desserts. There were an estimated 250 people in attendance. A silent auction and live auction made up the rest of the evening’s activities.
Family-
Brent Oestreich, right, stands with his wife Amy and two of his children Gregory, left, and Garen, at Brent’s benefit Saturday, July 22, at the Pomme de Terre Shrine Club. Brent was diagnosed with stage four esophageal cancer and has been traveling to the cancer treatement center in Tulsa, Okla. every week for treatments. The benefit was planned by friends as a way of helping the family financially, and showing them support as they continue their fight.
A community comes together for one of their own
“He’s always had our back, it’s good to be able to have his”
When Brent Oestreich, a 16 year veteran of the Hickory County Sheriff’s Office, was diagnosed with stage four esophageal cancer, many of his friends within the community put their heads together and began planning a benefit that would help alleviae the financial burden placed upon him and his family. On Saturday, July 22, an estimated 250 community members showed up at the Pomme de Terre Shrine Club to show their support for the family. They started filing into the hall around 4 p.m., a full hour before the benefit was originally scheduled. They would continue to stream in over the next two hours.
New school year less than a month away
Summer is drawing to a close, meaning staff, parents and students within the four Hickory County school districts are busy preparing for another year. As such, school officials have announced start dates and early gatherings to help offer parents and students all the necessary information before classes begin.
HCAC Back to School Clothing Bank
to begin taking appointments Aug. 1
The Hickory County Child Advocacy Council Back to School Clothing Bank will begin taking appointments Tuesday, Aug. 1.
New school year less than a month away
Summer is drawing to a close, meaning staff, parents and students within the four Hickory County school districts are busy preparing for another year. As such, school officials have announced start dates and early gatherings to help offer parents and students all the necessary information before classes begin.
Shoreline Management Meeting-
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers held a public meetng Tuesday, July 18, where they were accepting comments on the Shoreline Management Plan. Don James is pictured above directing the Corps employees, and other guests, attention to a specific docking zone he had questions about.
Corps of Engineers takes comments on Shoreline Management Plan
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers met Tuesday, July 18, to discuss the Shoreline Management Plan (SMP). Comments on the plan will be accepted through Tuesday, Aug. 1, and can be emailed to Pomme.De-Terre@usace.army.mil or mailed to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Rt. 2 Box 2160, Hermitage, Mo 65668.
Relay for Life holds Survivor Party
Hickory County Relay For Life hosted a Survivor Party Tuesday, July 25, at the McCarty Senior Center. It was strictly for cancer survivors and their family members.
HCAC Back to School Clothing Bank
to begin taking appointments Aug. 1
The Hickory County Child Advocacy Council Back to School Clothing Bank will begin taking appointments Tuesday, Aug. 1.
Hermitage R-IV sets tax rate hearing date
The Hermitage R-IV Board of Education held its monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday, July 17, with board members setting the date for the annual tax rate hearing as Monday, Aug. 21. The hearing will begin at 6:15 p.m. and is open to the public. The board’s regular meeting will follow.
Hickory County Commission approves 2017 budget adjustments
The Hickory County Board of Commissioners held two public meetings this past week, with the third being canceled due to the commissioners being out of the county. The main focus of the week was the approval of adjustments to the 2017 county budget.
Volunteer Fire-
Pittsburg Volunteer Fire Department Board President Rodney Glenn, rght, recently accepted a $1,961.25 check for the purchase of mobile communications equipment and GPS units from MDC Forestry Resource Assistant Ben Buckner.
Galmey Fire-
Galmey Volunteer Fire Department’s Wilbur Ellis, left, Richard Dringenberg, and Fire Chief Joe Mendenhall recently accepted a $1,860 check from the Missouri Department of Conservation for the purchase of safety equipment and fire rakes. MDC Forestry Resource Assistant Ben Buckner presented the matching funds donation during the brief ceremony. According to the MDC, 169 Missouri fire departments are receiving checks for up to $4,000 this summer to help with the purchase of personal protective gear and firefighting equipment for wildfire, as well as structure fire suppression efforts. Fire departments are required to match 50 percent of the funds, provided by the Missouri Department of Conservation and the US Forest Service, Volunteer Fire Assistance Program.
Local fire departments receive funds
to help purchase necessary equipment
The Galmey Volunteer Fire Department has received $1,860 from the Missouri Department of Conservation for the purchase of safety equipment and fire rakes. The Pittsburg Volunteer Fire Department received $1,961.25 for the purchase of mobile communications equipment and Global Positioning System units.
Wheatland R-II set lunch prices, tax hearing date
The Wheatland R-II Board of Education held its regular meeting Thursday, July 20, where they tabled a decision on joining the D.A.R.E. Program and set their annual tax hearing date and set lunch prices.
July brings year’s highest library circulation
The Hickory County Library Board of Directors held its regular meeting Monday, July 17, beginning at 10 a.m. in the library. Present were President Hal Geltmacher, Vice President Sharon Barrett, Secretary Judy Baker, Trustee Shelly Aubuchon, and Administrator Stacy Coulsell. Treasurer Gerda Fitts was absent.
Tweedy completes U.S. Army Practical Nurse Course-
Toby Tweedy, right, graduated the United States Army Practical Nurse Course and is shown receiving his diploma Wednesday, July 19. He was a part of the class 16-008, in which the students completed a 59-week course designed to teach soldiers to provide first-line trauma care on the battlefield, perform as members of forward surgical teams, and function in expanded support roles in combat support hospitals and fixed medical facilities. Tweedy went through basic combat training at Ft. Leonard Wood, then did the first part of his practical nursing specialist training at Ft. Sam in Houston, Texas. He completed his training at William Beaurmont Army Medical Center at Ft. Bliss in El Paso, Texas. He also has taken and passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) and earned credentialing as a Licensed Vocational Nurse, as well as the Military Occupational Specialty of 68C. His next duty station will be at Ft. Gordon in Augusta, Ga., where he and his wife, Mystie, will soon be living. Tweedy is the son of Steve Tweedy of Wheatland and Angela and Mark Breshears of Overland Park, Kan.
Health department receives drug disposal pouches
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is coordinating distribution of 50,000 medication disposal pouches donated by Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals.
Health Dept Aug calendar
Hickory County Health Department officials have released their August Women and Infant Children (WIC) calendar.
Dino Fun-
I was almost eaten by a dinosaur while in Colorado, because my sister Kaite pushed me.
Hotel Waffles
My family and I just got back from a vacation to Colorado last week, and while I was there, I learned quite a few surprising things I thought I’d never need to know.
Capitol Report
Greetings, My Fellow Missourians!
Historical Excerpts:
In an effort to expand our historical coverage, from time to time, The Index will print excerpts from Wilson’s History of Hickory County, first printed by our founder, F. Marion Wilson, in 1907. This week’s selection concerns Hermitage’s founding.
FBI agents set to speak at local NARFE meeting
The local chapter of National Active and Retired Federal Employees will meet at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 2, at Smith’s Restaurant in Collins. The meeting is open to all members, potential members, and their guests.
Smail’s award-
Pictured is the certificate United States Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Kyle Smail received, along, with his Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Monday, June 19, in Norfolk Va. More information on Smail’s service can be found in the July 12, issue of The Index. Below is a letter written by Smail’s superior officer detailing the action taken that earned him the medal.
New information details the actions taken
by Staff Sgt. Smail, which earned him a medal
In the July 12 issue of The Index, a story was ran on United States Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Kyle Smail receiving the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal on Monday, June 19. Smail, who is being transferred to Yuma, Ariz., took some leave time to visit his family in Hickory County and was in town Sunday, July 9, through Friday, July 21. While in town, he provided more information in the form of a letter written by his superior officer on the actions taken that earned him the medal.
Commentary
Dear Readers,
Letter to Editor:
I want to publicly thank the Hickory County Sheriff’s Office, and in particular, Deputy Dennis Dudley, for the speedy and efficient help given to a friend and myself who needed assistance at the lake Sunday night. Dudley was prompt, courteous, and there when we needed him. He stayed until we were on our way. Never did he complain or scold, but he remained cheerful and most helpful. Thank you again, Deputy Dudley.
History of Osage Indians explored
The Pomme de Terre Chapter of the Missouri Archaeological Society held one of its most well attended meetings to date Sunday, July 16, when more than 50 people, including several children, arrived to hear a presentation on the Osage Indians. Roger and Susan Boyd led the proceedings, which began around 2 p.m. at the University of Missouri Extension Center in Hermitage. Snacks and refreshments were provided and door prizes were handed out at the end of the two-hour session.
Fristo Missionary Bap. Church to host Fifth Sunday service
Fristoe Missionary Baptist Church is holding a special Fifth Sunday services for the Baptist Old Path Association Saturday, July 29-Sunday, July 30. Services Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with BJ Payne and Kip Baker conducting.
Rondo Fifth Sunday Sing
Rondo Baptist Church will host a Bluefield Bluegrass Gospel music event for Fifth Sunday Sing Sunday, July 30.
Heat cancels goat show-
The Hickory County Farmers Market was originally scheduled to host a goat show Friday, July 21. However, due to the heat, the owners of the goats decided to cancel their appearance. Marketing Manager Melissa Elliott is hoping to reschedule them for the Fall Festival Friday, Sept. 22. With the main event for the day canceled, the market continued as usual, with 11 vendors for the day. Janet Loehr and Dianna Donnelly ran the concession stands, selling hamburgers and bratwurst from Flying 3 Ranch on buns from the Hayes Family Farm, and veggies and fruits from 4G Greenhouse, all of which are full time vendors at the Market. Pictured are Kim and Connor Brixey shopping at the Hayes Family Farm booth. Along with being open 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. every Friday until Oct. 27, they will be open 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays until Aug. 12.
OFH officials announce record number of
meals distributed through hunger-relief network
Ozarks Food Harvest distributed nearly 16.4 million meals last fiscal year, ending June 30, making it another record year for feeding those in need across the Ozarks.
Home food preservation
Home food preservation remains an important and popular activity. It is critical that those who practice preserving and processing foods at home have access to the most reliable information available concerning food safety and food quality. The Cooperative Extension Service and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) are recognized as credible sources for science-based recommendations.
FFA Leadership Camp-
Rayanna Williams, left, and Alex Hamilton are two members from the Hermitage FFA Chapter that attended the State FFA Leadership Camp from July 10-July 14, 2017. While there, they received awards recognizing their accomplishments. Williams received the State FFA Leadership Camp medal by attending several elective leadership sessions and competing in public speaking contests. Hamilton was selected as the All-Around Camper from Hermitage. The camp is sponsored by the Missouri FFA Association, and was held at Camp Rising Sun, within the Lake of the Ozarks State Park. The Institute provided leadership training for over 1,200 high school students who are members of FFA chapters across Missouri. The high school students are trained by State FFA Officers, as well as a Leadership Director who is a past State FFA Officer. Students learn to overcome obstacles and develop their communication and personal skills. Nationally, there are over 600,000 FFA members. Missouri ranks sixth in the nation, with over 25,000 FFA members.
Hay sampling techniques
In the past, I’ve spent a lot of time discussing the importance of hay testing to determine appropriate feeding. I’ve not spent as much time discussing how to actually collect the samples. Many producers are concerned about hay quality this year, so a quick discussion on sampling techniques is warranted.
Church News
Bethel Assembly of God
FCCLA National Winners-
Three Skyline FCCLA members attended the National Leadership Conference in Nashville, Tenn. between July 2 and July 7. While in attendance, students competed in STAR Events, and attended leadership workshops and networked. Pictured, from left, are: Hannah Benedict-Advocacy, receiving gold; Carina Vannicolo-Leadership, earning silver; and Sabrina Turnbow-Recycle and Redesign, receiving gold. Benedict and Turnbow are juniors. Vannicolo is a recent graduate of Skyline High School.
Preston
Cindy and Katie Anderson visited Larry and Leona Hoy, Oak Grove, Mo., Thursday evening. They went to the Turner auction in Kansas City. They spent the night with the Hoys. On Friday, Leona took Cindy and Katie to some estate sales and out to lunch for Mexican food.
Cross Timbers
The fellowship night at the Cross Timbers Christian Church was Thursday with a good attendance. Everyone had a good time visiting, playing dominoes, singing and eating snacks.
Happy Birthday-
Loreta Giberson of Bolivar, formerly of Urbana, will turn 94 on Sunday, July 30.
On cusp of 94th birthday, Giberson shares life’s journey
Loretta Giberson of Bolivar, formerly of Urbana, will be celebrating her 94th birthday with friends and family on Sunday, July 30. She has many relatives and friends in the Hickory County area, and they ask that anyone who would like to send a greeting card do so in care of Loreta Giberson, Butterfield Residential Care Center, 1120 N Butterfield, Apt D109, Bolivar, MO 65613.
Correction:
The Index staff must offer a correction for errors in the article concerning the sales tax town hall meeting, printed in the Wednesday, July 19, issue.
Car hits building east of Galmey
Dillon Taylor, 16, of Flemington, was involved in a one vehicle wreck at 6:45 p.m. Friday, July 21, on Highway 254, a half mile east of Galmey. He received minor injuries and was taken by private vehicle to Cox South Hospital in Springfield.
It’s a girl!-
Shelbi Ethington, 23, of Elkton, was among family and friends Saturday, July 21, as they waited to learn the gender of her baby. Ethington picked a unique way of telling everyone, choosing to do the reveal via special gender reveal fireworks. However, the mystery of a what she was having would remain secret to even her, until the blasts went off. The only person aware of the gender before hand was her mother, Angie, who had been in charge of purchasing the correct color of fireworks. When the first firework went up in a flourish of pink, the answer was revealed. Ethington was expecting a little girl. Laikynn Rose Ethington is expected to join the family on Dec. 6. Her grandparents are Gary and Angie Ethington of Elkton.
Unknown vehicle leaves scene of wreck; no reported injurys
Timothy Hardin, 60, of Bolivar was uninjured wednesday, July 19, after another vehicle struck the mirror of his 2006 Ford F150 pickup truck. The other driver is an unknown individual who left the scene before law enforcement arrived.
Land Transfers In Hickory County
Land transfers in Hickory County from the office of Pamela Hutton, recorder.
HICKORY COUNTY HISTORY:
This photo shows the farm home of the late Jacob and Nancy Sanders about 1900. Mr. and Mrs. Sanders are shown at left, and their daughter, Mary Chaney, at right. The Sanders farm was located south of Hermitage just across the Pomme de Terre River. The land was later owned by Mrs. H. H. Bybee. Photo reprinted from The Index archives.
Hickory County Associate Court
Hickory County Associate proceedings July 3-14, 2017. Judge James A. Hackett presiding. Costs are ordered in accordance with State Statutes and county commission orders.
Looking Back
Thursday, July 26, 1917
