July 12, 2026
Santa Fe Times
TL Spelling Bee
Trinity Lutheran School held their annual Spelling Bee for grades 1-8 on Friday, Jan. 30. During this contest, the top four winners from each classroom competed in the gym to determine the overall class winner. Here, first grader Tobias Roll takes his turn at the microphone while Trevor Lovercamp (left) and Rhen Tieman (right) wait their turn. For more from this event, see page 5. (Submitted photo)
Supper Out
Community Ministries of Waverly hosts Supper Out the last Tuesday of the month, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at various locations. Everyone is invited for eatin or carry-out of a home-cooked meal. Come as you are and enjoy the fellowship. Donations are accepted, but NOT required. Schedule is subject to change.
DESE accepting nominations for Missouri Teacher of the Year
The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is now accepting nominations for Regional Teacher of the Year. This is the first step for an educator to become the 2027 Missouri Teacher of the Year.
The Beat: The more you know, the more you grow
Chief of Police, Waverly PD
Santa Fe takes on the classic, matches up with the Mules
After a short winter weather delay, the 45th annual Slater Wildcat Classic fired up last week on Tuesday night for girl’s action, and Wednesday night for the boys. Santa Fe was in the house to take on the Carrollton Trojans of the MRVCE, for the late game on 1-28-26. Originally slated for a 9 p.m. start, the game began early. The two teams had met previously back in December with CHS notching a 75-51 win at home.
Care Connection requests public comment on FY27 Area Plan
Care Connection for Aging Services is soliciting public comment on its Area Plan for July 2026 – June 2027. The plan includes detailed data, specific goals, and actionable strategies designed to expand and sustain the agency’s services, ensuring the agency meets the needs of the growing older adult population. The plan also ensures compliance with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) guidelines and the Older Americans Act, while prioritizing those with the greatest social and economic needs.
Apply online for MDC spring managed turkey hunts starting Feb. 1
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds hunters that Missouri youth, archery, and firearms turkey hunters can apply online for 2026 spring turkey managed hunts during February at mdc.mo.gov/ springturkeyhunts.
SF girls nab consolation side victory at Slater Wildcat Classic
After the Brunswick loss to open the Wildcat Classic, the Lady Chiefs took on Pilot Grove on the left side of the bracket. Santa Fe would prove too much for the Lady Tigers in this one, rolling to a 45-29 decision. The opening quarter netted 9 points for Santa Fe and 5 for Pilot Grove. Freshman Tynlee Koch hit a three and added a bucket, and Elise Michael, and Abbi Mueller also produced scores in the frame.
WCE RoundUp Foundation awards grants to help fund local projects
The first quarter 2026 RoundUp grants were recently presented to area groups and organizations. The following organizations and projects received funds: Helen’s House of Odessa received $3,500 to restock supplies and necessities.
SWCD announces poster contest
The Lafayette County Soil and Water Conservation District would like to invite 4th grade students in Lafayette County to participate in their annual Conservation poster contest. The theme for this year’s contest is “Soil. Where It All Begins.” Soil grows our food, filters our water, supports wildlife habitats, and provides the foundation for our communities. Without soil, there would be no farms, forests, or places for humans and animals to thrive. Soil is such an important part of our ecosystem!