Every two years each County Clerk in Missouri conducts a canvas of registered voters in the county. This allows us to keep our records current, verifying you do still live in the location you have indicated previously, and allows you to receive up to date polling location and redistricting changes by reviewing the information on your card. Polling locations, equipment, and many other variables are reviewed in order to determine whether to maintain certain facilities due to availability, redistricting, compliance, security, cost, and poll worker availability. It is with all of these things in mind that the decisions have been made to consolidate three polling locations. These are Cedar Springs, Madison BC, and Washington. The new voter registration cards that you’ve received this spring will note these new changes. These decisions are never taken lightly. I apologize for any inconvenience this causes but want to make everyone aware to check their new cards before driving to their polling location to ensure they make appropriate travel plans.

Chelsey Nissley has accepted the principal position for the El Dorado Springs Christian School 2024-25 school year. This will be Nissley’s ninth year in education. She has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s in special education from Missouri State University.

On a recent trip to Hermann, my fellow travelers and I were pleasantly surprised to stumble upon the vibrant Mai Fest. This special celebration, complete with Maypoles and Ledderhose, was a great addition to the trip.

After rain impacted last weeks’ Class 3, District 12 tournament scheduled at Sarcoxie, the Stockton Tigers instead traveled to Neosho to take on the Southwest (Washburn) Trojans last Monday. Neosho High School hosted the district tournament as their field was synthetic turf, allowing the games to move forward despite the persistent heavy rains over recent days. Southwest (Washburn) had defeated Diamond on Saturday in a play-in game and faced the #1 seed Tigers in semifinal action.

Last Friday and Saturday, the Class 1, 2, and 3 state track meet, hosted by Jefferson City High School, filled two warm and sunny days as schools from all over the state converged on the state capital. Both the Tigers and Lady Tigers were represented, hoping to be competitive with some of the best athletes in the state.

The presentation of the “student of the month” award goes to one girl and one boy of Stockton high school. This award will be given each month during the 2023-2024 school year, and it is to recognize the Stockton high school students who have distinguished themselves through outstanding achievements in extra-curricular activities, academics, leadership, good citizenship, service to their school, and service to the community.

"We can't wait for this Summer's Reading Program!" the Cedar County librarians say. "Kids, ages 3-6 & 7-13, are invited to join us at both branches as we go 'Beyond the Book Shelf.'"

I’m sure you all know the cartoon of Tom and Jerry. Who doesn't? You’ll be pleased to know that my brother and I are named after them! My name is Jerry, and I’m the sweetest cat you’ll ever meet! I do love pets but also enjoy just laying by myself.

2023 Stockton graduate Jarrett Dale Schies completed Marine Corps boot camp and graduated on April 19.