Bacteria Causing Concern.

Water samples collected by Carthage High School stream team lead by science teacher and stream team organizer Wayne Christian, found high fecal coliform and E. coli levels at Tucker’s Ford and Francis Street points of entry into Spring River. Results showing E. coli levels at 291 colonies per milliliter at Tucker’s Ford, 235.9 colonies at Francis Street and 149.2 colonies at Morrow Mill where forwarded to the Health Department. According to the state the single-sample standard in a swimming area is 200 colonies per 100 milliliters. Christian says the state is getting pressure to lower the number. Using Vermont as an example he pointed out that there standard is 77 colonies per 100 milliliters.

"What the state is saying about the 200 colonies in a single sample is that you would expect to see eight illnesses for each 1,000 people who swim in that water. The higher the level, the greater the chance of getting ill, especially if you swallow the water or have an open wound," explained Health Department Administrator, Tony Moehr.

Although tests show Morrow Mill with the lowest number, since February the Mill has shown to have the highest numbers. Christian says when the team went to check the numbers on the Mill sample and the lid was slightly askew which could account for the low numbers this time around.

Moehr recommends residents not swim in those particular areas until levels are down. Missouri Southern student and stream team volunteer Frank Martinez said the results of the water samples will be posted at some bait shops along Spring River. Martinez and Christian both say they wouldn’t eat fish from the river unless they are cooked very thoroughly.

The fourth series of testing will be conducted again on all three sights on Saturday July 24th. The stream team will also be giving a presentation at the County Commission Meeting on Thursday, July 22.

Stopped by the Republican Ice Cream social put on by the Lincoln Ladies Monday evenin’. Memorial Hall was pretty much packed for the event. Several state candidates were there and all gave their three minutes worth to the audience.

‘Course the County candidates were also there to point out their attributes for the crowd. With the primary only a few weeks off, the pressure is on to get the speech makin’ as concise as possible. I’m sure most would prefer makin’ their comments without all the competition, but that’s part of the fun of these get-togethers.

I suppose overall there weren’t many votes changed durin’ the event. A good portion of the audience were there to support their favorite. ‘Course you can never tell what happens in the votin’ booth.

This is some fact, but mostly,

Just Jake Talkin’.

by

Carthage Printing

HERE’S A TIP

By JoAnn Derson

• To extend the life of children’s footed pajamas, just cut off the foot portion. Oftentimes, it is the child’s height that is the problem. With the feet cut off, you can usually get at least another month or two out of the clothes.

• "For fruits and vegetables that I have bought but are getting close to being spoiled, I just cut them up and freeze them for use in smoothies or stews. It really is better than wasting them, and the frozen fruit really gives my smoothies more flavor and texture." — S.P. in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho

• "Toothpaste can polish silver. Make sure it is just regular toothpaste, though. Not anything with added whiteners or such." — J.R. in Appleton, Wisc.

• "I travel a lot on business, so here’s my hint for travelers: When flying to foreign countries or other places where access to laundry facilities will be delayed for several days, I always wear old, worn-out socks, undershirt and undershorts that I’m about to throw out. That way, when I land and get checked in at a hotel (or campsite without running water!), I can just throw the soiled undergarments away and start FRESH with the clean clothes I’ve packed. This also leaves a little extra room in my bags on the return trip for souvenirs. That’s it! Praise holey underwear!" — Matthew in Orlando, Fla.