Valley News www.grainvalleynews.com
MARCH 19, 2020
Coronavirus Cancellations Continue As EJC Sees First Presumed Case Cancellations of school, business, church, and community events continue in response to coronavirus concerns, as do modifications to how business is conducted in the community. The Jackson County Health Department reported its first two presumed cases of coronavirus on
March 17th. The first case is a woman in her 80s who had not traveled recently. The second case is a man in his 40s who had recently traveled internationally. The Grain Valley Police Department, in a tweet dated March 16th, stated officers would respond in person only to emergency calls for service. All other
see CANCELLATIONS on page 2
Good News
Vol. 3, No. 11
FREE
‘Train Like An Officer’ Offers Important Experience For Grain Valley Residents Empathy is defined by Merriam Webster’s Dictionary as “the action of
understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and experiences of another.” The job of police officer demands that those who wear the badge be able to wear many hats in what they experience on the job day in and day out. Community police officers swear to uphold law and order, are ambassadors of the city they represent, must
possess judgment that’s sound and consistent, and understand the appropriate continuum of force to use in for the various situations they encounter. Grain Valley residents, ages 18 and older could experience real life scenarios that police officers face during training provided by the Grain Valley Police Department on Saturday, March 14th. Fifteen citizens of Grain Valley signed up for the instruction provided.
see OFFICER on page 3
Residents Look On Bright Side During Coronavirus Chaos
Valley News asked residents on Facebook to share some Good News in the midst of a flurry of coronavirus news. Several residents mentioned lower gas prices as a bright spot, and many shared photos of their pets who provide humor and comfort during this time of social distancing. Visit our Facebook page to view the Good News photos shared by residents. Photo credit: Valley News staff and Denise Kiernan
A participant in the Train Like An Officer program assesses a situation during the simulation. Photo credit: Valley News staff
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Police Blotter
The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police
Department daily calls for service log for the week of March 4-10, 2020.
State Sen. Mike Cierpiot, R–Lee’s Summit, is urging his constituents to remain calm during the recent state of emergency called by the governor to help combat the spread of the coronavirus in Missouri. On March 13, the governor declared a state of emergency through an executive order in response to the spread of the coronavirus. This action will allow the state more flexibility in utilizing resources and deploying them where they are most appropriate. The governor, following recommendations from the Centers of Disease Control, also urged the cancellation or suspension of public gatherings of 50 individuals or more, except for educational institutions, daycare facilities and business operations. While in a state of emergency, Sen. Cierpiot stressed calmness, not panic, in dealing with the ongoing situation. “We have dedicated medical professionals and officials from the federal, state and local levels working to keep the public healthy and safe,” Sen. Cierpiot said. “Rather than panic, I strongly urge my constituents to educate themselves about the coronavirus and how they can help mitigate its spread. We are all in this together, and together, we will get through this.” The first case of the coronavirus in Missouri was identified on March 7, and since then, several more cases have been confirmed. Coronaviruses are commonly spread from an infected person to others through the air by coughing and sneezing; close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands; or by touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands.
Symptoms of the coronavirus may appear 2-14 days after exposure and include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Reported illnesses stemming from COVID-19 have ranged from a mild illness to severe pneumonia that requires hospitalization. If you develop symptoms and have been in close contact with a person known to have the coronavirus or if you have recently traveled from an area with widespread or ongoing community spread of the coronavirus, call your health care professional. If you have been notified by public health authorities that you might have been exposed, follow instructions provided by your local health department. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is encouraging people to take the following steps to help prevent the spread of the virus: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands; Avoid close contact with others, especially those who are sick; Stay home if you are sick; Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands; and Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces. Learn more about the coronavirus and what you can do to keep your family safe by visiting DHSS’ website, at health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/ communicable/novel-coronavirus/. DHSS has also established a 24-hour hotline to help answer your questions about the coronavirus. The hotline can be reached at 877-435-8411.
CANCELLATIONS continued from page 1 calls/reports will be handled via telephone. For non-emergency calls, residents are asked to call Jackson County Dispatch at 816-795-1960. Police Chief James Beale later sent out a statement clarifying that officers would still be patrolling streets. Grain Valley Schools announced schools would be closed through at least April 3rd. According to an email from Grain Valley Schools on March 16th, all school district facilities are closed for student or community use effective immediately and for the duration of the school closure. All activities and practices are canceled during the period of school closure. City facilities are closed to the public; the Community Center is closed through
at least April 3rd. All Municipal Court cases set for the March 24th have been continued to April 28, 2020. Utility customers are asked to pay their water bills online, over the phone, or by submitting payment to the drop box on the north side of City Hall. The City of Grain Valley has also announced it will not disconnect water service for non-payment through June 30th. Numerous churches and community organizations as well as the MidContinent Public Library and YMCA have also announced closures. Valley News will continue to share cancellation information via social media and on our website, www.grainvalleynews.com, as it becomes available.
March 4, 2020 200 Block Jefferson 700 Block Main St 1400 Block Buckner Tarsney Rd 400 Block Foothill 3300 Block Tyman 200 Block Woodbury Dr 1100 Block Casey Blvd 1000 Block Ephraim 1100 Block Ashley Dr 1000 Block Mountain View 1300 Block Broadway 700 Block Main St
Private Tow Assault Suspicious Person Parking Complaint Agency Assist (IPD) Alarm Citizen Contact Check the Well Being Disturbance ATV on Roadway Motor Vehicle Theft Agency Assist (OGPD)
March 5, 2020 700 Block Main St 1000 Block Christie Ln 1100 Block McQuerry 400 Block Foothill 1100 Block Pamela Blvd 100 Block Front St East City Limits 7000 Block Buckner Tarsney 400 Block Harding 700 Block Main St 400 Block Broadway 700 Block Thieme 700 Block Main St 700 Block Cross Creek Minter/Ryan Rd 1100 Block Buckner Tarsney
Citizen Contact Suspicious Vehicle Suspicious Person Parking Complaint Alarm Citizen Contact Prisoner Transport Agency Assist (JCSO) Agency Assist (OGPD) Warrant Confirmation Agency Assist (OGPD) Disturbance Alarm Suspicious A Agency Assist (JCSO) Alarm
March 6, 2020 200 Block Harris St 200 Block Jefferson 800 Block NW Thieme Sni-A-Bar/US 40 Hwy 500 Block Capelle SW Eagles Pkwy/Main St 200 Block Main St 1200 Block NW Scenic 800 Block S Broadway 1200 Block NW Scenic 800 Block SW Woodland Dr 800 Block Harvest Dr 1600 Block NW High View Dr 1100 Block Buckner Tarsney 700 Block RD Mize Rd 1400 Block Jaclyn Hoot Owl/Katie 1300 Block RD Mize Rd
Vin Verification Trespassing Suspicious Vehicle Motor Vehicle Accident Alarm Agency Assist (CJC) Citizen Contact Suspicious Activity Agency Assist (OGPD) Citizen Assist Nuisance Animal Alarm Citizen Contact Alarm Suspicious Vehicle Suspicious Vehicle Suspicious Vehicle Disturbance
March 7, 2020 600 Block Woodbury 700 Block Crestview 1100 Block SW Sawgrass Old US 40 Hwy
Agency Assist (CJC) Suspicious Activity Nuisance Animal Water Main Break
700 Block Foxtail Dr 600 Block SW Gateway US 40 Hwy/Barr Rd
Suspicious Vehicle ATV's on Roadway C&I Driver
March 8, 2020 600 Block SW Gateway 200 Block Walnut 200 Block NW Jefferson 1300 Block NW Jefferson 1200 Block Ashley 1100 Block NW Baytree 1400 Block Jaclyn 1200 Block Ashley LN 600 Block Gateway 1300 Block RD Mize Rd 1300 Block Brentwood 700 Block Main St 600 Block SW Creek Ridge Dr 900 Block SW Hereford Dr
Property Damage Property Damage Property Damage Alarm Juvenile Issue Alarm Nuisance Animal Animal at Large Property Damage 911 Hang Up Open Door Citizen Contact Open Door Open Door
March 9, 2020 1300 Block Graystone Cir 100 Block Rock Creek Ln 700 Block Main St Vehicle Accident South Outer Rd 600 Block Yennie 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St EE Kirby/US 40 Hwy 600 Block Yennie 700 Block Main St I 70 Hwy 500 Block Hamilton 1200 Block NW Phelps 700 Block Main St Vehicle 100 Block E Old 40 Hwy McQuerry/Sunny Ln Duncan/Tyer 1500 Block NW Eagle Ridge 100 Block Sunny Ln March 10, 2020 400 Creek Ridge Dr 1400 Block Valley Ridge Cr 1300 Block RD Mize Rd 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 1300 Block Stoney Brook Sni-A-Bar/US 40 Hwy 700 Block Crestview Terr 200 Block Royer 700 Block Main St 800 Block Ridgeview 600 Block Broadway
Open Door Property Damage Leaving Scene of Motor Motorist Assist Motor Vehicle Theft Fraud Citizen Contact Motor Vehicle Accident Found Property Citizen Contact Agency Assist (MSHP) Stealing Agency Assist (CJC) Stealing From Motor Citizen Contact Motor Vehicle Accident Suspicious Vehicle Open Door Disturbance Alarm Motor Vehicle Theft Disturbance Citizen Contact Citizen Assist Suspicious Person Citizen Contact Traffic Control Suspicious Vehicles Missing Juvenile Citizen Contact Disturbance Citizen Contact
Valley News
Grain Valley News is a free community paper, published weekly on Thursdays online at www.grainvalleynews.com and on the 1st and 3rd weeks of the month in print. Cory Unrein | Co-Owner/Publisher John Unrein | Co-Owner/Production Manager Cathy Allie | Staff Writer, Proofreader Diana Luppens, Switch Focus Studios | Contributing Photographer John Overstreet | Contributing Photographer
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Looking Back: Front Street by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society
This photo was a gift to the Historical Society from Joe Ann (Lang) McAlister. The photographer, probably her grandfather, would have been standing in front of the old depot looking to the northeast. One can certainly recognize the Bank of Grain Valley in the center of the photograph. It is difficult to say when it was taken, however it was probably in the late 1930s or early 1940s. The building on the left is now a part of the Bank of Grain Valley. Dawn Buckallew, a former bank employee, was told it was a originally a saloon. Raymond Grubb, a 1961 graduate of GV HS and a long-time Grain Valley resident, remembers it as Pop Thomas’ Pool Hall when he was in high school. The door at the back of the bank opened to a stairway leading to the second floor. In the 1950s Dr. Charles Himmler, DO had an office there. In those days, he cured most ailments with an “adjustment.” He also gave eye examinations and sold glasses which had to be ordered from “the city” and arrived in about two weeks.
Further left is the building at the corner of Main and Front Street going east. Now the tattoo parlor, it has housed a variety of businesses over the years. I first remember it as a marina back in the 1950s when Tarsney Lakes was a “destination” for city folks wishes to spend a weekend at the lake. Tarsney had a big dock area, a lake side restaurant and a “beach” for swimming. The build on Main Street has also been a plastics factory, a beauty shop and a pawn shop. Next is the Huff Building. It was originally a hotel. I have a vague memory of the gas pumps, but they were not in use in 1949 when my parents purchased Loring Hardware, the building on the right side of the photo. I do not know when the building ceased being a hotel. I do remember a restaurant was briefly opened on the first floor. I mostly remember the lower level as a vacant building, while the upstairs had two or three apartments. It was in one of those apartments that a man fell asleep smoking on the night of December 9, 1959. That building,
Photo credit: Grain Valley Historical Society along with our hardware, burned to the ground that night. Ten days later in a special election Grain Valley finally passed a bond to get water. The vote for city water had failed several times. On December 19, 1959 there were only 3 NO
votes. The hotel and our store are now a parking lot.
Learn more about the Grain Valley Historical Society at www.grainvalleyhistory.com. Follow Grain Valley Historical Society on Facebook (@grainvalleyhistory).
OFFICER continued from page 1 Goals of the training included hearing the department define and explain their use of force continuum, gain insight on decisions officers must make in a chaotic environment, decide in real time if the use of a weapon is reasonable, and answering questions of public participants. Smokeless Range computer software and a modified Airsoft handgun are used during the simulation. Participants in the training got to experience three scenarios over a fifteen minute session that included two traffic stops and a physical altercation disturbance between two men. The experience provided not only offered empathy of what it’s like to be a police officer in those situations, it is also the same training used by officers in the department to better their judgment and reaction time. Ronnie lives in Grain Valley and admitted he took a deep breath prior to staring the simulation due the adrenaline he felt even though he knew what he was about to experience was not real. “That was definitely interesting. Even in the shooting range portion of the training, I could anticipate what was coming and could feel my heart rate start to increase. This definitely gives you insight into what goes on in the daily life of a police officer,” Ronnie said. “One wrong move and a whole situation can be different. This is something I’m definitely glad I did and would encourage others to do as well. I
Sergeant Jake Wise of the Grain Valley Police Department led residents through the Train Like An Officer program held March 14th. Photo credit: Valley News staff have great respect for police officers and this experience only improved that.” Sergeant Jake Wise of the Grain Valley Police Department led the training provided. Wise focused on the importance of judgment and the value of paying close attention to details in situations you face as an officer in the field. “You have to read every situation you encounter. Doing so will allow you to know whether de-escalation will work. You want a positive outcome if at all possible,” Wise said. Grain Valley Chief of Police James Beale wants experiences like Train Like An Officer to drive community engagement between the department and the general public. Beale was on
hand for the training and was active in engaging with participants. “Training is paramount. We’re going to be ready for situations that come our way. Our department is fortunate in that we don’t have too many issues with use of force. I think our guys get to a scene and assess a situation and are good at de-escalation,” Beale said. “The software affords us the ability to do scenario based training with role playing that we can control. It allows an officer to practice directions like ‘let me see your hands, move over there, drop the weapon’ to be ready for compliant and non-compliant people.” Beale also spoke to the value of deescalation as an instrument in an officer’s toolbox.
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“A lot of times when we arrive on scene, people’s adrenaline is generally flowing, and they are upset. If we arrive and match their level of intensity it can go bad quick. We try to use reason and a calm voice tone to bring down the situation. Separating two disagreeing parties is also effective. My guys are very good at this and that’s why our use of force is minimized through deescalation,” Beale said. Participants in the training were requested to provide feedback that will be used by the department to guide future events and to be discussed internally.
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Business News
Eagle Convenient Storage Coming To Grain Valley The self-storage industry is alive and well. Investment Banker cites, “selfstorage units are growing so fast that in 2016, there were more than 58,000 selfstorage facilities in the U.S. with a total of 32 million units covering over 2.3 billion square feet of storage space. The total square miles of self-storage facilities in the U.S. is almost three times the size of Manhattan.” Alexander Harris, is a journalist who covers the self-storage industry also reported earlier this month that, “the average yearly revenue for the industry is $39 billion and 9.4 percent of United States households currently rent a selfstorage unit.” Self-storage unit rental costs also vary from state to state depending on demand and location. Chad Risinger is the owner of Eagle Convenient Storage located at 114 SW Eagles Parkway in Grain Valley. The property is scheduled to open at some point in April 2020 depending on the cooperation of the weather as final construction touches are completed. Risinger has worn different hats in his professional career. The former homebuilder and bar owner is excited about his new business venture. “Grain Valley is a growing city. My past experience building homes in the community led me to want to own a business here. I’ve always wanted to be a real estate developer,” Risinger said. “There’s a demand for storage units. This business will fulfill a need for the community. This is a good first step in
Chad Risinger, a member of the Grain Valley Partnership, is opening Eagle Convenient Storage at 114 SW Eagles Parkway, Grain Valley. Photo credit: Valley News staff owning property in that there’s a lot less technical development that comes with building a self-storage facility that makes this a good first step for me.” Risinger continued, “Who doesn’t want more garage space? I know I’ve filled up a three car garage myself before with extra stuff we accumulate and need. Getting extra space is useful. Seasonal demands also come into play as you may need to get your boat out of your driveway during the winter months.”
The most common unit size for Eagle Convenient Storage will be 10’ x 20’ units. The first phase of the business will consist of 72 units, 13 of which will be climate controlled. The second phase of the property will have approximately 100 additional units. Risinger intends to be competitive in the market when he announces leasing
prices for units near his grand opening. Those interested in renting self-storage units from Eagle Convenient Storage may do so online at www.goeaglestorage.com (currently under construction) or by phone at 816699-3900.
Business News is sponsored weekly by the whose mission is to be a leader in the growth of Grain Valley. The Grain Valley Partnership is located at and can be reached by phone, 816-443-5162 or via email at info@growgrainvalley.org.
Grain 1450
SW
Valley Eagles
Partnership, Parkway,
Learn more about the Partnership: www.growgrainvalley.org
Community Voices
Page 5
Wayne’s World
Getting to the Bottom of This by Wayne Geiger
In the last couple of weeks our nation, our city, and our families have changed drastically. Before now, most of us never used the term coronavirus or COVID-19. But now, those terms have taken center stage. We have all been affected personally in one way or another. According to an article in the New York Times, if not contained, COVID-19 could infect between 160-214 million people and cause a death toll of between 200,000-1.7 million. The main word is “if”. We’re all doing our best to keep ourselves—and others safe. “My daughter is mad at me,” a friend said, “I won’t let her to go a friend’s house and she’s pouting.” In some ways, we’re all pouting. We have all been forced to alter our schedules and way of living. It’s a “new normal” at least for the time being. Human behavior is odd, at times. Sometimes, it’s just downright unbelievable. We’re facing a pandemic and panicking people are purchasing piles of toilet paper! Throughout our region, people have been hoarding toilet paper and other supplies. Social scientists say that hoarding is a mechanism of self-preservation and control. It got so bad that, for a while, store shelves were bare and angry people were acting irrationally. This led to many stores enforcing a two-pack limit. One of the strangest stories I heard was about the Newport Police Department in Oregon who had to put out the following statement: “It’s hard to believe that we even have to post this.
Do not call 9-1-1 just because you ran out of toilet paper.” We need to get to the bottom of this. Toilet paper is a luxury. According to several sources, about four billion people of the world’s almost eight billion people don't use toilet paper. Shocking right? Some sites say that number is about 70-percent. That’s hard for most of us to believe. “Why is that?” we wonder. Some civilizations just don’t have the trees. Some can’t afford it. And some just don’t see the need. It seems that most of the world just uses…wait for it….water. In ancient times, wanting wipers, used shells, stones, snow, moss, hay, leaves, grass, corncobs, sheep's wool, sponges, and eventually, newspapers, magazines, and pages of books. The first commercially available toilet paper did not hit the shelves in the U.S. until 1857. At that time, it wasn’t well received. For some odd reason, the inventor decided to print his name on every sheet (talk about a bad marketing idea). At that time, the general public saw no reason to pay for toilet paper. They were just as happy using the free Sears, Roebuck, & CO. magazine. But the issue was on a roll and in the late 1800s two brothers popularized paper on a roll. But, still, our nation was not ready to squeeze the Charmin. It seems that Americans were too modest and embarrassed to buy the product. I guess they didn’t want anyone else to know that they used the stuff. In fact, the two brothers did not even want to take credit for their invention until years later. But as you know, in the end, toilet paper caught on. The main reason was
indoor plumbing. People were now experiencing the luxury of going indoors and using a plumbing system. Unfortunately, the Sears magazine paper was too hard to flush and would clog up the system. Since necessity is the mother of invention, toilet paper caught on. Currently, the U.S. spends more than $6 billion a year on toilet tissue (maybe because we eat more than any other nation?). We also use it for all sorts of stuff like blowing our nose, cleaning up small spills, removing makeup, covering toilet seats, killing spiders, drying up the blood from nicked shaving, packaging material, cleaning mirrors, TP’ing homes, and a whole lot more. By a whole lot more, I mean, on average, Americans use about 57 squares a day. The average number of sheets a person uses is 8.6 sheets per trip to the bathroom. That means, most people use about 20,000 sheets of toilet paper per year (or about 100 rolls). Studies show that most people are not satisfied with what comes off the roll. Women like to wad up the paper before use and men prefer to fold it. The remaining like to use the “wrap method.” There is no argument of the “over” or “under” method off the roll. It’s a façade. According to the 1891 patent for the toilet paper, it states specifically that the end of the roll should be hanging off the top (which is why they put the decorative side out). Please don’t send me any angry emails. Over the top is historical. So, why is toilet paper flying off the shelves? Fear. Researchers say, it would take a household of 15 to work through a 30-pack of two-ply over a two-week
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timeframe. For a couple, one pack should last for nearly four months. There is no shortage of toilet tissues. In the Los Angeles Times, Professor Willy Shih said, “It’s not like suddenly all the toilet paper factories in the world are burning down. They’re still cranking this stuff out.” Shih says that the issue is that toilet paper production has been too steady—supply and demand has been a normal routine for many years. If anything, toilet paper supplies are suffering from being too steady, Shih says, “there is no hot season for toilet paper.” That means that TP factories run on a schedule and are designed to run as efficiently as possible around the clock to produce the amount of paper that we need. A run on toilet paper just created a sense of scarcity. Again, fear. Thankfully, although most of the stuff we buy comes from outside our borders, when it comes to TP, it’s born and bred in America. Imported toilet paper only makes up about 9% of the total U.S. supply. So, in the end, we can’t let fear get the best of us. We need to be cautious and use wisdom. We also need to adjust to a new normal. But we’ll get through this. And, just maybe we’ll be better friends and neighbors. This is a time for caring for and sharing with one another. We’ll all get through this together. We’re kind of like two-ply. We’re just better together. Wayne Geiger is the Pastor of First Baptist Grain Valley, an Adjunct Associate Professor of Speech, and freelance writer.
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Home & Garden
Unique Vegetables For The Venturesome Gardener
by Dr. David Trinklein, University of Missouri Division of Plant Sciences and Cathy Bylinowski, Horticulture Instructor, University of Missouri Extension
One of the joys of gardening is to try something new each year. Most vegetable gardens center on the gardener's favorites. Yet it can be both interesting and educational to try less common, unique vegetables to test your gardening skills and expand your culinary horizons. ArugulaArugula Gardeners who want greens quickly may select a few plants which normally can be harvested about six weeks after seeding. These include arugula, also known as roquette or garden rocket. Arugula grows best in the cool weather of spring and fall. Leaves of arugula add a spicy, pepper-like taste to salads and is prized for its health benefits as well as its unique taste. High in dietary fiber, arugula also is a good source of antioxidants and glucosinolates, which have been shown to reduce the risk of developing certain forms of cancer. Malabar spinach, or basella, produces shiny green leaves
somewhat similar in appearance to spinach. Unlike spinach, it is very heat tolerant and can provide salad greens throughout the summer. It is a vigorous climbing vine that may achieve a height of six feet when allowed to grow on a trellis. Plants can be started from seeds indoors, but should not be planted outdoors until the soil has warmed and the danger of frost has past. Its taste has been likened to that of mild Swiss chard. Ro manes co - One of the more interesting vegetables in appearance, Romanesco appears to be a cauliflower altered by aliens. Its inflorescence is chartreuse green in color and "self-similar" in morphology. The latter refers to the whole having the same shape as its parts. Closely related to broccoli and cauliflower, its buds (or curds) are comprised of smaller buds arranged in a logarithmic spiral. Like other members of the cabbage family, it prefers cool growing conditions and has a flavor
described as delicate and nutty. Ros elle - A vegetable that might be making a reappearance in the U.S is roselle. Also known as the Florida cranberry, the fleshy sepals make a bright purple-red colored drink called Jamaica in many Latin American Market and restaurants. Farmers and gardeners from Burma and other countries in Southeast and Central Asia use the fleshy leaves of roselle as a cooked green similar to spinach, but with a tasty sour taste. Other unusual vegetables have been around for a long time but, because of changes in availability or consumer preference, they disappear only to return later. Two examples are Black Aztec corn and French horticultural bean. Black Aztec corn can be eaten as corn on the cob when immature. However, when the kernels mature, they turn a deep blue-black color. This type of corn was prized by the Aztecs for making corn meal and is gaining popularity. French horticultural beans are semi-vining in growth habit, but usually are grown as a bush. The pods are splashed with red and yellow flecks. The beans themselves are speckled with white and red, making them very colorful. French horticultural beans
usually are consumed as young, immature beans shelled from the pod. They also can be used as dry beans and are said to have a nutlike flavor. While scanning seed companies who advertise on the internet or checking seed racks in stores, you are sure to find other unique vegetables that you might be tempted to try. Spaghetti squash, banana melon, ground cherry and many types of Oriental vegetables are being planted more and more. While gardeners should not ignore their old favorites, giving new vegetables a try can be rewarding and create new flavors for you and your family. Get your cool season vegetable gardens started this month. Plant onions, lettuce, potatoes, cabbage, kale, and other cool season crops. It is also time to get ready for warm season crops. If you want to start tomato, eggplant, or peppers seeds on your own in a greenhouse or under lights, it is time to do that now. Contact Jackson County University of Missouri Extension in Blue Springs, MO for more information on spring gardening and landscaping- 816-252-5051, bylinowskic@missouri.edu.
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2020 Census
Census Underway; Public Encouraged To Respond Online, By Phone, Or By Mail The 2020 Census is well underway and is ready for America to respond as the first invitations are arriving in the mail at an estimated 140 million households between last Thursday, March 12 and this Friday, March 20.
The public is encouraged to respond to the 2020 Census online, over the phone, or through the mail with their paper questionnaire as soon as possible.
ACROSS 1. Happen again 6. Promotions 9. Field mouse 13. UV absorber 14. Seek a seat 15. Eagle's nest 16. Jury ____ 17. Mad King George's number 18. Bad-tempered one 19. *Two or more people on the road 21. *Fines can do that? 23. Scot's woolen cap 24. Give an impression 25. Last month 28. Willy Wonka mastermind 30. Lay down to rest again 35. Container weight 37. Damaging precipitation 39. One born to Japanese immigrants 40. Windows alternative 41. Clown act 43. London subway 44. What Motion Picture Association of America does 46. Lentil soup 47. Pulitzer winner Bellow 48. Little Women to Aunt March 50. Victorian and Elizabethan ones, e.g. 52. Dropped drug 53. Type of dam 55. Post Malone's genre 57. *Traffic separator 60. *Kind of lane 64. Tiger's and lioness' offspring 65. J. Edgar Hoover's org. 67. Capital of Vietnam 68. Between wash and dry 69. 1985 Kurosawa movie 70. Village V.I.P. 71. Brewer's kiln 72. Play part 73. Young salmon
DOWN 1. Campus drilling grp. 2. Poet Pound 3. Coconut fiber 4. Not fitting 5. Add a new magazine 6. Seed cover 7. *Punishable driver offense, acr. 8. Like a hurtful remark 9. Action word 10. Like face-to-face exam 11. Don't cross it? 12. Comic cry 15. Keenness in a certain field 20. D-Day beach 22. Old-fashioned over 24. Move like a serpent 25. *Go back the way you came 26. Hawaiian veranda 27. Banal or commonplace 29. *"Raised ____, " or "Don't Walk" 31. Small fragments 32. Bar order, with the 33. Puzzle with pictures and letters 34. *Up-side-down triangle sign 36. Biz bigwig 38. Yarn spinner 42. "The Nutcracker" protagonist 45. Crafting with stitches 49. One of Sinbad's seven 51. Miss America's accessory, pl. 54. Prefix for below 56. Church song 57. Actress Sorvino 58. Shining armor 59. Negative contraction 60. Pub order 61. ____-China 62. Christmas season 63. Horizontal wall beam 64. *Keep your hands at ten and ____ 66. *Measurement of alcohol in body, acr.
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Your Health
Page 8
Boost Your Immune System With Nutrition by Tracey Schaffer
With the cold and flu season in fullforce and the threat of COVID-19, a strong immune system is your best defense against disease. Immune systems may be weakened by poor diet, lack of sleep, lack of exercise or stress. Here are some nutrition sources to help boost your immune system to fight those scary viruses. Vitamin C – Vitamin C can help prevent the common cold and can help lower the duration and severity of a cold. Foods high in vitamin C are citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits and tangerines; strawberries and papaya; vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, spinach and kale. Zinc – When taken at the first sign of illness, zinc can shorten the duration of cold viruses. Zinc can be found in shellfish, meats, spinach, chickpeas, nuts and seeds. ProbioticsProbiotics Probiotics may give your immune system a boost and inhibit the
growth of harmful gut bacteria. Good sources of probiotics are yogurt with active and live cultures, kefir and kombucha. Protein – Protein helps support your immune system cells. Compete protein sources (those containing all essential amino acids) include meats, fish, low-fat dairy products, plant-based combinations such as beans and brown rice and soy products. Water - Staying hydrated can help loosen trapped mucus and keep you from risking dehydration when you are sick and running a fever. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Seasonings and spices – Ginseng tea, garlic and ginger have all been shown to help combat a cold or a flu by boosting the body’s immunity through their ant-inflammatory powers. A healthy diet is just one way to help protect yourself against the cold and flu. A good night’s rest, daily exercise and
good handwashing practices are other ways to help protect yourself. Try this immune boosting smoothie to fight the flu.
Tracey Shaffer is a registered and licensed dietitian and owner of KC Nutrition Coach in Eastern Jackson County. She can be reached at tracey@kcnutritioncoach.com.
Orange Resolu on Smoothie Prep me: 5 min Serves: 8 Source: Food Network Ingredients: 2 cups frozen mango chunks 2 cups frozen peach slices 2 cups plain Greek yogurt 1 cup miniature carrots 1 cup orange juice 1 cup pineapple chunks ¼ cup honey 1 banana, peeled Direc ons: Put the mango chunks, peach slices, yogurt, carrots, orange juice, pineapple chunks, honey and banana in a blender and blend un l everything is completely smooth.
Outdoors & Recreation
Page 9
MDC Forecasts Challenging Turkey Hunting Season by Joe Jerek, Missouri Department of Conservation
Missouri turkey hunters can expect a challenging spring season according to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). The spring turkey hunting season starts with a youth-only weekend April 4th and 5th followed by the regular spring season April 20th through May 10th. MDC Turkey Biologist Reina Tyl expects spring turkey hunting to be challenging. “A great deal of what makes for a good spring turkey season depends on the hatch two years prior because it affects the number of two-year-old gobblers on the landscape,” Tyl said. “These young gobblers are not associated with hens as often as older, more dominant birds and are the most likely to respond to hunters’ calls.” Poor production statewide during 2018 will result in fewer two-year-old gobblers available for harvest during this year’s spring hunting season. Tyl added that in 2018, the best production at the regional scale occurred in the northern half of the state. This could potentially translate to relatively more two-year-old gobblers on the landscape north of the Missouri River. Considering the prospects for the 2020 spring season, hunters should be prepared to put in a bit more effort to be successful this year. “When turkey numbers are down, it becomes even more important to spend time scouting for flocks before the start of the season,” Tyl said. “Hunters should get out to their hunting areas as much as possible to listen for birds gobbling at daybreak.”
Tyl noted that hunters should also take the time to learn where turkeys are spending most of their time after they fly down from the roost. “Use binoculars to spot turkeys feeding in open areas or look for signs of where turkeys have been feeding in the timber, This will help hunters be in the right area when the hunting season gets here.” Although the prospects for this year’s spring season aren’t encouraging, this isn’t the first-time poor turkey production has reduced turkey numbers in Missouri. After reaching a population peak in the early-to-mid 2000s, Missouri’s turkey population experienced four years of poor production from 2007–2010, causing the population to decline. However, Tyl noted that turkey numbers rebounded following several years of improved production. “In much of the state, we observed improved production during 2011, 2012, and 2014. As a result, turkey numbers increased, and hunters generally had better hunting seasons in the years that followed.” “We are again in a period of poor production and lower turkey abundance. We can expect to see the effects on harvest for several years until production improves and turkey numbers rebound.” Get detailed information on spring turkey hunting from MDC’s 2020 Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet, available from MDC offices and nature centers, other places where permits are sold, and online
at huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/spring-turkeyhunting-regulations-and-information For more information about spring turkey hunting, visit MDC’s website at huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/huntingtrapping/species/turkey Tyl stressed that hunters can easily avoid the main cause of turkey-hunting incidents —mistaking or being mistaken by another hunter for wild game. “Each year, most turkey hunting incidents typically involve hunters who fail to identify their targets,” Tyl said. “Unless you are certain that what you’re looking at is a wild turkey, remember that any movement you see or any sounds you hear while you’re hunting could be another hunter.” Tyl also advised hunters to wear some hunter-orange clothing when moving through the woods or fields, particularly when hunting public land. “Bringing along an orange hat or vest is an easy way to stay safe. Wear one when you’re moving and put it away when you sit down to work a bird.” Tyl also noted that many turkey hunting incidents involve members of the same hunting party. “If you’re hunting with someone else and you split up, be certain you know where your hunting partner will be at all times.”
Get information on spring turkey MDC’’s 2020 Spring Turkey hunting from MDC Hunting Regulations and Information booklet, available from MDC offices and nature centers, other places where permits are sold, and online at huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/springhuntfish.mdc.mo.gov/spring-turkeyturkeyhunting--regulations regulations--and and--information. hunting Photo credit: MDC
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Sports
Page 10
Lady Eagles Playoff Run Ends Against Lincoln Prep by John Unrein
The Grain Valley Lady Eagles Basketball team fell short of recording 21 wins and advancing past the quarterfinal round of the playoffs with their 63-45 loss to the Lincoln College Prep Blue Tigers on March 14th. A valiant effort was put forth by Grain Valley to overcome missed shots and the rebounding deficit they faced in the game. Freshman Grace Slaughter’s 24 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists combined with the senior leadership of Keely Hill and Savannah Scott were not enough to turn the scoreboard in favor of the Eagles. Understandable emotion was on the faces of the Lady Eagles as they emerged from the locker room after the game. “Emotion started to take over for me with a minute left in the game. I’ve had a fun four years. I got to do this (go on a playoff run) again, because I did it my freshman year too. It’s been amazing,” Hill said. “I’m going to really miss (Coach) Draper and everybody that’s pushed me to become who I became my senior year.” Scott added, “I know there are a lot of freshman on the team this year, so we have a lot of people that look up to us and I think that’s good. We’re good people that they can look up to and we’ll lead them in the right direction. Basketball is fun and it goes by fast.” Lincoln Prep’s Ajanea Bradley was a handful for the Eagles to contain. Bradley earned frequent trips to the free throw line along with finishing at the hoop on drives to the basket. The stellar quickness and shooting touch displayed by Bradley allowed her to lead all scorers with 29 points. Lady Eagles Head Basketball Coach Randy Draper was disappointed to see his team’s season come to an end. Draper has had noticeable fun this season on the sideline in coaching his young team. “Every team’s goal is to dictate how the game will get played. We were great at that against Nevada in our previous game. We were hurried in this game and I think that was due to nerves, and I get it. That’s okay. It’s why you have to play these games so that you learn how it all feels and then the game slows down for you as you go, or your playing career progresses,” Draper said. “I told this team I was honored to be their coach. They (Lincoln Prep) were part
of the problem (with how they played defense) when it came our shooting. We didn’t have a great night shooting the basketball and missed some shoots we usually make.” “Lincoln Prep also got after it on the glass rebounding. We didn’t do as well as we could’ve their either.” Draper concluded with a tribute to his two seniors, “Savannah (Scott) brings a toughness to us that’s special. Especially, because she plays out of position. Her edge that she gives us in how she blocks out and sets screens is unique. I’m glad she got to a be part of this in her only varsity season.” “Keely (Hill) is a four year varsity player. She’s sad right now because that’s the emotion you experience when something fun ends. I told them I never cried once at the end of Algebra. Hill does so much for our team in all the roles she plays. She’s a great defensive rebounder, influences shots, is a really good passer, and just knows how to play basketball.” The future is bright for Draper’s program moving forward. Youth will be served in future seasons as Grain Valley’s varsity roster possesses two juniors and six freshmen. Part of that youth movement has been and will be Slaughter. The variety of roles she fulfills for the Eagles will only become more valuable as her skill set improves with age. “The end of this game wasn’t the outcome we wanted and that’s definitely heartbreaking. Even though we were down tonight on the scoreboard, I wanted to leave it all on the floor like Draper encourages us to do,” Slaughter said. “One of his former players sent him a text to read to us about playing like we wouldn’t have any regrets five years later. I think that’s that what we did tonight.” Slaughter ended with what Hill and Scott have meant to her and the team. “Keely and Savannah have meant so much to us. It’s different coming on to this team and playing with older girls. It can be a little nerve racking, but they’ve been so much fun to play with. Their leadership has been something we’ve followed, and they will be missed,” Slaughter said.
Freshman Grace Slaughter drives to the basket against Lincoln Prep. Photo credit: John Overstreet
Junior Malia Guttierrez sinks a three pointer to open the scoring in the game. Photo credit: Valley News staff
Freshman Grace Slaughter drives to the basket. Photo credit: John Overstreet
Senior Keely Hill attempts to block a shot against Lincoln Prep. Photo credit: John Overstreet
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Sports
Page 11
Youth Of Eagles Golf Building Foundation by John Unrein
Former UCLA Men’s Basketball Head Coach John Wooden would start the first practice of the season by teaching his players the proper way to lace up their shoes. Past UCLA players under Wooden such as Bill Walton called it a “success lesson.” Walton has explained throughout his career as a television basketball commentator that Coach Wooden liked to start at the bottom and build up his program brick by brick in paying attention to the little things through focusing on details. Eagles Boys Head Golf Coach Andy Herbert is aware of the youth that makes up much of his roster. “We only have two guys with varsity experience and that’s it. Right now we are focused on the expectations during practice. What does that look like? How do you come out here and improve daily,” Herbert said. “It’s how you spend the time we have that’s important. What we do over the next three months to positively change the game of student athletes is what matters. Team goals is something we don’t know where we are at yet. Instead, establishing what it’s going to take through the pace of practice and the mental mindset needed has to be formed.” Herbert continued, “then we can look at talent level and understand where we want to get from where we are at. We don’t have a ton of kids that grow up playing golf. We tend to stumble across athletes. Getting them a good foundation of fundamentals and having them understand that they must practice at this during the summer, by playing in tournaments, and playing year around when possible matters.” “That helps to form guys who may do unique things like play in the state tournament. This isn’t something that you can do from March to May and expect to be more than a participant. Your concentration and the substance of your practice helps to carry you.” Herbert praised the leadership that seniors Bradley Kitsmiller and Davis Powell provide for the Eagles. They are joined by Freshman Owen Herbert to form a nucleus that will help to push Grain Valley this season. Each offered their perspective on the various
elements of playing a sport they love. “I didn’t always play golf. I used to play baseball. It means a lot to be out here every day with my teammates and getting to do something fun,” Kitsmiller said. Powell added, “The reason I like golf is because it was introduced to me by family. Getting to play with my friends while missing school sometimes is an added bonus. Owen Herbert finished, “I’ve always liked being on a team. Combine that with getting to represent our school and play a sport I love is kind of cool. Building relationships that are long term and getting to joke with my teammates is great.” All three teammates have also found a way to be around golf and play year round. Each indicated there wouldn’t be much they would be willing to trade that for in return. “I work at Stone Canyon Golf Course and get to play golf for free because of that. I try to take advantage of free range balls and rounds as much as I can when the weather is warm,” Kitsmiller said. Powell has taken the same route as Kitsmiller in being strategic in his part time place of employment. “I work here at Adams Pointe Golf Course and it’s a good place to work that also allows me to play plenty of free golf,” Powell said. Owen Herbert added, “I play in all kind of summer tournaments that allow me to compete a lot. It helps build your confidence. I try to get to the golf course every day.” Bobby Jones was a lawyer by profession who just happened to play golf as well. Jones founded and helped design the Augusta National Golf Club and co-founded the Masters Tournament. Jones believed that golf could teach you valuable lessons about life as well as sharply divide your opinion about the sport depending on your perspective. Jones is credited with saying, “Golf is the closest game to the game we call life. You get bad breaks from good shots; you get good breaks from bad shots – but you have to play where the ball lies.” A noted Missouri author by the name
Grain Valley Eagles Golf (left to right): Coach Andy Herbert, Freshman Owen Herbert, Senior Bradley Kitsmiller, and Senior Davis Powell. Photo credit: Valley News staff of Samuel Langhorne Clemens had a different view of the sport. “Golf is a good walk spoiled,” Mark Twain said. The rewards and challenges associated with golf is something that the trio of Eagles Golfers embrace. “The most rewarding thing about golf is winning as a team. Golf is also a hard sport. It requires consistency and your complete attention,” Kitsmiller said. Powell agreed with Kitsmiller, “The greatest reward in golf is shooting your best game and getting a personal low score. It’s a game of inches and hitting the ball correctly with your swing matters.” Owen Herbert concluded, “Getting to tell your team your score after a round
and having everyone realize that will help the team is pretty awesome. This game is also about consistency. You can come out one day and wonder where your swing went. If you start think about your game during a round, you end up with a triple bogey and that one hole can change everything.” Due to COVID-19 concerns affecting school and activity schedules, tournament information for Grain Valley Boys Golf is currently delayed. Updates may be sought through the Grain Valley School District Activities website or Twitter.
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Community Calendar Please Note: Community events continue to be canceled/ rescheduled due to COVIDCOVID-19 concerns. Please contact organizers to confirm events are still scheduled.
Monday, March 23, 2020
Board of Aldermen Meeting Grain Valley City Hall, 711 S Main 7:00pm
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