Valley News
MAY 7, 2020
www.grainvalleynews.com
Parks & Rec Pushes Forward With Summer Programming With many traditional entertainment options closed due to stay-at-home orders related to COVID-19, families have taken advantage of the limited outdoor recreation spaces open during this time. Their options will expand in the coming weeks as Grain Valley Parks and Recreation pushes forward with plans for the summer, including the opening of the Grain Valley Aquatic Center in late May. The Grain Valley Aquatic Center will open for the season on Saturday, May 23rd. Pool season passes can be purchased once the Grain Valley Community Center resumes normal
operational hours. Registration for group and private swimming lessons as well as water aerobics is now open on the City’s website. Residents may also register for Parks and Recreation programming by calling the Community Center, 816-847-6230 ext. 9 from 8:00am – 5:00pm Monday – Friday. Shannon Davies, Parks and Recreation Director, is not yet certain what changes in terms of capacity will need to be implemented at the pool. “We will know more once Jackson County provides their recovery plan,” Davies said. Residents should expect some changes when utilizing parks facilities
see PARKS on page 2
Vol. 3, No. 18
FREE
Good News
Parade Planned For Seniors The 2020 graduating class has certainly missed out on its fair share of senior year celebrations due to the stay at home orders related to COVID-19. To help bring some pomp to this unusual graduation season, Grain Valley Schools delivered yard signs to seniors this week, and parents and community members have come up with several ways to honor graduates during this unusual time. One such effort is a parade for Grain Valley High School seniors, planned for Sunday, May 17th at 4:00pm. Stacey Perry, a parent of a 2020 graduate, explains that she and other parents were looking for an looking for a fun way to acknowledge their students’ hard work.
“Several people saw the parade idea on Facebook and after discussing it, decided to do it over the weekend (as opposed to the original May 19th graduation date) so that more people could participate,” Perry said. The parade route will begin at Grain Valley High School, head east on SW Eagles Pkwy, turn south on Buckner Tarsney, west on SW Sni-A-Bar Blvd, and then turn east onto SW Eagles Pkwy/AA back to the high school. The public is encouraged to attend and cheer on the graduates. Additionally, individuals with convertibles, Jeeps, or parade-worthy cars willing to participate should contact Stacey Perry at 816-847-6856 or Stacey@PurplePeaceFoundation.org or Anita Aubuchon at 816-810-8226 or Auby27@gmail.com.
Calling All Kindergarteners: Time To Enroll For School While much focus has been rightfully placed on how the cancellation of school has affected current elementary and secondary students this spring, Grain Valley Schools is also concerned about the youngest members of its school community. Kindergarten enrollment was disrupted this spring due to school cancellations, so the district is working to reach incoming Kindergarten families to ensure they enroll in a timely manner so they can prepare for the 2020-21
school year. “Over the years we have been able to anticipate how many students will show up on the first day of school based on early enrollments. With the cancellation of our registration events this spring, enrollments are down and we can only hope for final enrollments that are consistent with what we have seen in the past few years. The sooner we know who to expect in the fall, the sooner we can ensure that we have the correct
see KINDERGARTEN on page 2
Photo courtesy of Stacey Perry
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Police Blotter
PARKS continued from page 1 and participating in programming. “As our parks and recreation facilities start to open back up to the public, initially there will be changes with regard to limiting the number of registrants, maintaining social distancing, and the PPE’s utilized by staff. We should be getting guidance from Jackson County this week on what this will look like. Some facilities will open sooner than others but the ‘gathering’ restrictions the County provides will dictate what programs we can still offer and what programs we will have to cancel or postpone. Of those programs that we can still provide, we will have to limit the registration count to maximize social distancing,” Davies said. The Parks and Recreation Department will offer a Youth Tennis program and Pre-K Instructional T-Ball program this summer, as well as popular programs such as Popsicles in the Park and Movies in the Park. The first Movie in the Park program will be held Friday, June 5th at the Armstrong Park Pavilion. The June 5th event will feature the movie Abominable and will begin at dusk (approximately 8:30pm).
The past few weeks have proved to be an interesting challenge for Parks and Recreation staff, and helping families stay active while most parks facilities are closed has required creativity. “We have tried to do more things through social media. For example, our “Boredom Busters” activity through Twitter. Each day, we post an activity that kids can do at home inside or out in their yards and ask that they post pictures of them in action or of their completed activity. With playgrounds, park shelters, and other park amenities being closed to the public, we have seen a huge increase in trail usage,” Davies said. “With the warmer weather and people tired of being cooped-up at home, our trails have been a true asset for people to spend time outdoors and exercise. We have seen a marked increase in trail use at Armstrong Park and Butterfly Trail Park. Our new Blue Branch Creek Trail has been very popular over the past several months. We are also seeing people use our open greenspace areas to play on and picnic, which is really great to see.”
KINDERGARTEN continued from page 1 number of teachers in place to receive them.,” Dr. Brad Welle, Deputy Superintendent for School and Community Services said. “As of May 5th, we have 204 children enrolled for Kindergarten in the fall, which is up significantly from just two weeks ago. However, last year at this time we had 267 students enrolled so we are down 25% from a year ago. We are asking our families to urge friends and neighbors to begin the enrollment process for any child entering kindergarten in the fall so we can prepare for them.” Parents may enroll their students online at www.grainvalleyschools.org, under the “For Families” tab.
Additionally, the district is offering curbside registration for those who are having difficulty enrolling online. Curbside registration is available at each elementary school on May 18th from 9:00am—3:00pm and May 20th from 3:00pm—6:30pm. Upon arrival, families are asked to remain in their car. A staff member will come out to assist registrants. Families participating in curbside registration are encouraged to bring the child’s birth certificate, immunization records, and a current utility bill. Those who have successfully registered online do not need to visit the school. For more information, visit www.grainvalleyschools.org.
The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police
Department daily calls for service log for the week of April 22-28, 2020. April 22, 2020 700 Block SW Meadowood Dr 100 Block Old US 40 Hwy 100 Block Old US 40 Hwy 700 Block Main St 600 Block SW Sunset April 23, 2020 1000 Block RD Mize Rd 400 Block SW Laura Ln 200 Block Jefferson 1400 Block NW Nolan Dr 400 Block Main St US 40 Hwy April 24, 2020 200 Block Jefferson 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St Main St/I 70 Hwy 600 Block S Central 1100 Block Casey 100 Block Sunny Ln 1400 Block Nicholas Dr 700 Block Main St 1500 Block Nicholas 1500 Block Nicholas April 25, 2020 900 Block Deer Creek 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 500 Block NW Willow Dr 100 Block N Lee 100 Block W Harris 1100 Block Christie Ln 400 Block Yennie 1500 Block Highview Dr 200 Block Main St Buckner Tarsney Rd/Ryan
Citizen Contact Private Property Tow Suspicious Person Citizen Contact Suspicious Activity Citizen Contact Found Property Agency Assist (CJC) Illegal Burning Hit & Run Motor Vehicle Accident Citizen Assist Trespassing Citizen Contact Citizen Assist Agency Assist (IPD) Agency Assist (Buckner PD) Suspicious Vehicle Peace Disturbance Check The Well Being Citizen Contact Peace Disturbance Disturbance Disturbance Citizen Assist Citizen Contact Animal at Large Agency Assist (Buckner PD) Peace Disturbance Disturbance Check The Well Being Citizen Contact Property Damage Motor Vehicle Accident
April 26, 2020 1200 Block Ashley Ln 600 Block Yennie 100 Block Sunny Ln 700 Block Main St 500 Block Main St 1200 Block Ashley 1700 Block Nicholas
300 Block Rock Creek Ln Dean Dr/Joseph
Peace Disturbance Disturbance Disturbance Citizen Contact Check The Well Being Agency Assist (LSPD) Agency Assist (Buckner PD) Suspicious Activity C&I Driver Dune Buggy on Roadway Suspicious Vehicle Fireworks
April 27, 2020 700 Block Main St NW Jefferson/NW Jefferson Ct 800 Block Scenic 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 200 Block Jefferson 600 Block Yennie 500 Block Shorthorn Shorthorn/Sni-A-Bar Scenic/Meadow 1200 Block Valley Ridge 1000 Block Sandy Ln 700 Block Main St
Citizen Assist Motor Vehicle Accident Agency Assist (CJC) Citizen Contact Warrant Confirmation Abandoned Vehicle Harassment Check The Well Being Go Cart on Roadway ATV on Roadway Alarm Alarm Citizen Contact
700 Block Main St BB Hwy/SW Eagles Pkwy Rosewood Hills Subdivision
April 28, 2020 1100 Block Valley Ridge Dr 1400 Block Nicholas Dr 700 Block Main St Main St/US 40 Hwy 1100 Block Pamela Blvd 100 Block N Lee 800 Block Redbud 300 Block Rock Creek Ln 1300 Block NW Pecan 800 Block Capelle
Motor Vehicle Theft Agency Assist (CJC) Identity Theft Motor Vehicle Accident Alarm Agency Assist (Buckner PD) Check The Well Being Check The Well Being Leaving Scene of Motor Vehicle Accident 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
Mail: PO Box 2972 Grain Valley MO 64029 Phone: 816.809.7984 Email: news@grainvalleynews.com
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Looking Back: The “Little House” On Main Street by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society
If you have driven south on Main Street toward Eagles’ Parkway and beyond, you have driven past this house. This photograph was taken in the spring of 1926, so the house has changed a bit. It is now painted brown; a room has been added on the front and an addition on the back. The porch is a bit longer and the bottom third of the post supporting the porch roof is surrounded by stone. Known as the “Little House,” it was part of the original Sni-A-Bar Farms. Today, it is all that remains of Sni-A-Bar that is inhabitable, although right now it appears to be vacant. Since early 2001 it has been a gift shop, a law office and an insurance office. The children in the front yard are Isabelle, 8; Charlie, 10, and Billy Napier, 16. When they, along with their parents James and Belle, and an older brother Jim came to Grain Valley in 1922, this was their home. After they moved up on the hill by the “Big House,” the Becker
family lived in the house. Mrs. Becker furnished food for the farm hands that lived in the bunk house, behind this home. Several years later, this was my parents’ first home after they were married in 1937. My mother ran the boarding house in those days and most of the boarders were college students there for a semester to learning about the experiments taking place at Sni-ABar. I’m not sure about others that lived in the house except the Starke Family. Bob Starke worked on the farm for Mr. Batman during the 1950s and 60s. Barbara Starke was the school music teacher and I along with many others took piano lessons in the room that had been added to the left front of the house. With a laundromat on the north side and a car lot on the south side, I wonder about the future for this “little house” that is now over 100 years old.
Photograph of the “Little House” House” on Main Street taken spring 1926. Photo credit: Grain Valley Historical Society
Visit www.grainvalleyhistory.com to learn more about the Grain Valley like”” the Historical Society on Facebook, Twitter, Historical Society and “like and Instagram (@grainvalleyhistory).
Berries Are A Sign Of Spring
Springtime Mixed Berry Salad Prep time: 10 min Serves: 4-6
by Tracey Shaffer, RDN, LD
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.
You may be noticing berries popping up at your local grocery store. Signs of spring include berries of all sorts including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries. Whether fresh, frozen, or homegrown, berries are a colorful, nutritious and flavorful treat. Berries are packed with vitamin C. One cup of strawberries has more vitamin C than a medium orange. They are also an excellent source of fiber, folate and potassium. Berries are full of phytochemicals and antioxidants which help to prevent heart disease and certain types of cancer. They are also very low in calories with a cup of blueberries having only 83 calories and raspberries only 64 calories per cup. What is the best way to keep berries fresh? Store most berries dry and in the container in which you bought them and don’t wash them until you are ready to eat them. Strawberries, however, tend to dry out in the refrigerator, so store them atop a dry towel after washing in a
single layer with a damp towel over the top. Berries only last a few days in the fridge, so if you don’t eat them quickly you can store them in the freezer after washing and drying them and placing them in a freezer-safe food storage bag. You can just pop berries into your mouth for a fruity snack or try these tasty ways to use berries: top with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a delicious and nutritious dessert
sprinkle on a salad of spinach, feta cheese, sliced almonds and balsamic vinaigrette add to your morning oatmeal stir into Greek yogurt for a protein packed snack add to a smoothie
top a slice of angel food cake
However you like your berries, they make a nutritious and delicious addition to your springtime menus.
G R A I N VA L L E Y N E W S LOCALLY FOCUSED. FAMILY OWNED. PUBLISHED WEEKLY.
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Ingredients: 14 oz package of mixed baby spring greens (spinach, arugula, lettuces, chard, radicchio) 8 oz strawberries, cored and sliced thin 8 oz blackberries ½ cup sliced almonds, lightly roasted ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar ½ cup extra virgin olive oil ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard Dash of salt and pepper Directions: In a large mixing bowl, tossed greens and berries together and set aside. Make the dressing: In a small mixing bowl, add olive oil, balsamic vinegar, mustard, salt and pepper and whisk until combined completely. Or, put in a jar and shake well. Pour half of the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine. Sprinkle feta cheese and almonds on top and drizzle with the rest of dressing. Serve immediately.
Business
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Grain Valley QuikTrip Opens May 21st QuikTrip’s newest location just north of 1-70 on Buckner Tarsney Road plans to open May 21st. The store will be just under 5,000 square feet with 16 fuel pumps. The indoor convenience area will include the company’s popular QT Kitchen, preparing pizza, subs, flatbreads, pretzels, breakfast burritos, and other favorites of QuikTrip customers. In addition to QT Kitchen items, the convenience area will feature fountain drinks, iced teas, and a variety of self service coffee options. Mike Thornbrugh, spokesperson for QuikTrip, said that with all the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 restrictions as it relates to food and beverage service and capacity limits in stores, the company does not currently have any grand opening events scheduled. The impact of COVID-19 precautions on the store’s popular roller grill and other self-service items is not yet known, but Thornbrugh said these items will remain mainstays. The announcement of QuikTrip’s arrival in Grain Valley was met with
much excitement from QuikTrip loyalists, and Thornbrugh said he knows what differentiates their company from others. “It’s our people. I mean that sincerely. They are the best in the business. Our guys and gals in red shirts are bright, articulate, and in perpetual motion. They make sure everything is constantly stocked and the facility is clean,” Thornbrugh said. Thornbrugh said the company is excited to expand into Grain Valley, and their expansion shows they are a company that continues to grow. “We are constantly figuring out ways to improve our business. We never sit still, and you see the results of that in our stores.” The QuikTrip Corporation, more commonly known as QuikTrip (QT), is a chain of convenience stores based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, primarily operating in the Midwest, Southeast, and Southern states. QuikTrip was ranked 33rd on Forbes Magazine’s list of largest private companies in 2016.
SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESS. SHOP LOCAL. Valley News is pleased to provide a free business directory to encourage our readers to support local businesses in this unprecedented time. Listings are provided at no cost to businesses and all local businesses are welcome to add their information. Visit www.grainvalleynews.com to view the Business Directory and/or add your business listing.
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QuikTrip plans to open May 21st at its new Grain Valley location on Buckner Tarsney Road, just north of 11--70. Photo credit: Valley News staff
Tap Into Employer Benefit Resources In Times Of Uncertainty (Family Features) For many American workers, how they do their jobs dramatically changed with the spread of COVID-19. Some have shifted to working from home while others moved to parttime or reduced hours. With uncertainty abound, now’s a good time to take stock of your physical and mental health and familiarize yourself with the resources available from your employer. As part of a report on mental health, employee benefits company Unum found nearly three-quarters (74%) of working adults feel big life events can have a major impact on their mental health. Some top mental health triggers include a person’s health (69%), finances (67%), relationships (59%) and job satisfaction (52%). Often linked with a health care or disability plan’s coverage, employee assistance programs, telemedicine or tele-behavioral health and app-based programs are low-cost solutions that allow people to connect with a professional on their own time when they’re experiencing a problem. Employee Assistance Programs An employee assistance program (EAP) often offers free and confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals and follow-up services to people who have personal or workrelated concerns. EAPs address a wide range of issues affecting mental and emotional wellbeing, such as alcohol and other substance abuse, stress, grief, family
problems and psychological disorders. Many EAPs also provide services to help caregivers, assist with financial planning or offer child care resources. Telemedicine and AppApp-Based Mental Health Solutions Telemedicine services can make accessing medical and mental health resources easier. There are even apps that can target specific mental health needs, and people can access them on their own time when they need the services. These types of tools can be effective complements to traditional care and help with everything from increasing positivity and efficiency to reducing stress and anxiety. In addition, the report found 93% of human resources professionals say their companies offer an EAP, yet only 38% of employees said they’re aware of the resource. More than half of human resources professionals also said they offer financial counseling, legal services and telemedicine services, but only a fraction of employees reported being aware these services exist. As businesses chart new ways of working, these types of tools can help employees establish new ways of interacting with support services when in-person options may not be available. Even if you’re not struggling now, as you navigate this uncertain time, consider asking your employer what resources you have access to that can help support your physical and mental wellbeing.
Education Barzee Named Band Director; Alex Kirby Joins Band Staff Current Grain Valley Bands staff member Travis Barzee has been promoted to Director of Bands for Grain Valley Schools beginning in the 2020-21 school year. “For three years, we have been able to witness first hand Mr. Barzee's ability to work with and raise the level of our students abilities and efforts. We have no doubt that under the tutelage of Mr. Barzee, the Grain Valley Eagles Band will continue to be one of the top band programs in the state if not the entire country,” Dr. Jeremy Plowman, Grain Valley High School Principal said. Grain Valley Bands will also welcome Alex Kirby to its staff in 2020. Currently, Kirby teaches for the Fayette School District. At Fayette, Kirby leads all concert bands grades 5-12, 7-8th grade marching band, high school marching band, and high school jazz band. Kirby is a graduate of Central Methodist University, where he was principal tuba and a member of the
Alex Kirby will be joining Grain Valley Bands staff in the next school year. Photo courtesy Grain Valley Bands Missouri All Collegiate Band. He will also complete his master degree from Kansas State University summer 2020.
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Snodgrass Named Assistant Principal at Grain Valley High Lauren Snodgrass has been promoted to assistant principal at Grain Valley High School (GVHS) beginning with the 20202021 school year. Snodgrass has served as art teacher at Grain Valley High School since the 2009-2010 school year. Snodgrass earned a Bachelor's degree from Drexel University, a Master's degree from Boston University, and a Specialist’s degree from the University of Central Missouri. GVHS principal, Dr. Jeremy Plowman, sees the assistant principal assignment as the next natural step for her. "Lauren has been a leader among our staff on initiatives like Standards Based Grading and served on the Building Leadership Team and the transition to a building administrator role should be smooth. She has already gained the trust of our staff," Plowman said. "Ms. Snodgrass is an accomplished and respected educator and she knows what we are about in Grain Valley. I am confident that the addition of Ms. Snodgrass to our leadership team will be of great benefit to our students and
Lauren Snodgrass has been promoted to Assistant Principal at Grain Valley High School. Photo courtesy Grain Valley Schools staff,” Grain Valley Schools Superintendent Marc Snow said.
Technology
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Video Conference Tools To Communicate With Employees, Customers, and Family by Burton Kelso, The Technology Expert
Everyone across the nation is working from home and to alleviate that feeling of isolation we are all relying on video conference. With this wonderful piece of technology, we can check in with our teammates, consult with our customers, communicate with our family and have virtual happy hours with our colleagues. Before you jump on the video conference and start using a particular piece of software, there are some things you need to take in to consideration like what is the best software application for you and what things you need to have in place before you use video chat. Follow my tips to find out what things you need to have in place. How fast are you surfing the web? Before you even begin to think about streaming video, you need to get a good idea of how fast your internet is at home with your land-based Internet and your cellular provider. Get in contact with your Internet provider to find out what your plan is and if you're getting unlimited Internet, especially if you're wanting to stream video from your smartphone. Why? Video uses a LOT of data and if you're on a limited plan, you can burn through your data quickly. Once you confirm you're not on a limited data plan, visit Ookla's Speedtest (www.speedtest.net) or download the app to your smart device. This service allows you to check out your current Internet speed so you can compare it to what Internet speed plan you are paying for and if your speeds are consistent. Fast, reliable Internet is important. When you run the test, the most important number is your download speed which should be at least 20 Mbps (Megabits Per Second) or higher. The faster the download speed, the faster you can stream video on your computer or phone. You can also use it to troubleshoot if you're having connectivity issues with your Internet provider. What do I do about 'Zoom Bombing'? Zoom Bombing is the act of an unwanted participant joining and interacting in your video conference. These interlopers can display offensive images and use offensive language. They can also send the participants files to infect their devices with malware and ransomware. They can also get access to your Zoom cloud account if you store your recorded Zoom videos in the cloud. With the rise of 'Zoom
Bombing', the issues of security have popped up, making many people rethink their strategy for video conferencing. You can continue to use Zoom, but you want to take the following steps if you do: 1. Add a Zoom meeting password 2. Disable File Transfers 3. Disable "Join Before Host" 4. Change Screen sharing to “host-only” 5. Disable the feature to Allow removed participants to rejoin” Do you mind if people listen to your video conversations? Depending on what type of information you plan to share during your video call, you want to be selective about which service you use. If you want your video chats secured, make sure the service you're using has end to end encryption. Simply put, end to end encryption allows your chat to be secure and private. Without it, there a possibility your conversations can get into the hands of people who want to steal your personal or business data. When using video conferencing apps that use End to End encryption they will use more of your Internet data. Universal appeal. When considering video conferencing software, you want to consider software available on every platform. For example, Apple's Facetime is one of the oldest video chat software around. It's easy to use and it offers end to encryption. It's perfect for secure connections with customers and family members that have iPhones, but sorry Apple users, we still live in a Windows world and not everyone has an iPhone. What are your choices? 1. Zoom. You can't talk about video conferencing software without talking about Zoom. It's easy to use and it's available for every tech device on the market. For most users, the features offered in a free account are more than enough for video calls and webinars from 2 to 100 or more connections. One of my favorite features includes the ability to share your screen during video calls and the fact you can record video from your calls. End to end encryption is automatically enabled in Zoom chat, but you need to enable end to end encryption for video by going logging in to your Zoom account then going to 'Meeting Settings', then navigate to 'end to end encryption' and slide the switch from off to on.
2. Google Hangouts Meet. If you have a Gmail account, you have access to Google Hangouts. This popular video chat app allows you can share documents, links to websites, your screen, and images. Like Zoom, you can join from any tech device and you can talk to up to 250 users if you have a paid GSuite account. Unfortunately, Google Hangouts video is encrypted, but it does not have end to end encryption. 3. WhatsApp. WhatsApp is probably the most used chatting app on the planet and it has a video chat feature as well. Video calls only work through the iPhone and Android app (so no video calls from a desktop computer). It also has end-toend encryption which will keep those calls secure. It isn't a robust as many of the business video chat platforms, but it is good enough to chat with friends and family or a small group of up to 4 people 4. GoToMeeting. This is a great video conferencing solution when you need to work with several co-workers and can support up to 150 people. It works with both Windows and Mac computers and most smartphones. GoToMeeting is powerful enough that you can create personal meeting rooms allowing more than one meeting can take place. It's the only program that allows you to share your mouse and keyboard with the people you are conferenced in with. 5. Cisco Webex. Like GoToMeeting, Webex lets you create multiple conferencing rooms, share your screen and send files back and forth. You are able to host up to 200 people, save the video of your presentation and you have end to end encryption for your sessions. 6. Skype/Skype Meetings/Microsoft Teams. Skype has been around forever, but
depending on which version you have you are limited on what you can do. If you have Free Skype, you can video conference from any device and talk with up to 50 people. If you are paying for a Microsoft Office 365 account, you can use Skype meetings which allows you to talk up to 250 people and share your screen and files as you can with GoToMeeting and Webex.Skype stands out because it lets you connect with landlines and mobile phones, eliminating the need for everyone you want to meet with to have access to the Skype software. In case you were wondering, Skype does have end to end encryption. With most of us working from home, it's important you take the proper steps to figure out how you are going to connect with family, friends coworkers and customers. Before you jump on the video chat bandwagon, take the time to find out which one is going to work best for you.
Want to ask me a tech question? Send it to burton@callintegralnow.com. If you prefer to connect with me on social media, you can find me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter and watch great tech tip videos on my YouTube channel. I love technology. I've read all of the manuals and I want to make technology fun and exciting for you. If you need on-site or remote tech support for your Windows\Macintosh, computers, laptops, Android/Apple smartphone, tablets, printers, routers, smart home devices, and anything that connects to the Internet, please feel free to contact my team at Integral. My team of friendly tech experts are always standing by to answer your questions and help make your technology useful and fun. Reach out to us a www.callintegralnow.com or phone at 888.256.0829.
Community Voices
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Wayne’s World Three Cheers For Mom by Wayne Geiger
In 1908, a lady by the name of Anna Jarvis of Philadelphia, desiring to honor the memory of her mother, observed the first Mother’s Day--on her own. Liking the idea so much, she began to lobby across the nation to get the whole country to be alerted to the need for an official Mother’s Day. Six years later, Congress affirmed the idea and got the signature of President Woodrow Wilson in 1914. Mother’s Day always falls on the second Sunday in May. God created both the man and the woman in His image to reflect His character. That means, both genders reflect the heart of God. When we were young and fell off the bike, it was dad who said gruffly, “rub some dirt on it and get back on.” It was mom who ran over, picked us up, dried our tears, put a band aid on it, gave us a hug and told us to try again and that they would be right by our side. Moms give us a glimpse of the tenderness of God: The Bible uses words like tender, compassionate, loving, and merciful to describe God. We see these qualities, most often, in our moms. From our moms were learned what it meant to love and to forgive. Someone has noted that the creation of the woman was something like this: When the Lord created the woman, an angel stood by and marveled. “Lord, you are taking a lot of time on this one.” “Yes,” the Lord replied, “this creature is intricate and complicated. She is tough and tender. She will need replaceable parts, need to be able to operate on minimal sleep and coffee. She will need great strength and patience and have a lap that can hold three children at one time. She will need a kiss that can cure everything from a scraped knee to a broken heart and have six pairs of hands." The angel was astounded. "Six pairs of hands!” “Yes, the Lord replied, “but it's not the hands that are the problem. It's the two pairs of eyes that mothers will need! They will need to see through closed doors and always know
what’s going on in the other room. They will also need eyes in the backs of their heads to know what’s going on behind them. Their children will be dumbfounded.” The Angel said, "This is a special creation! “Ah, yes,” the Lord continued, “she is so close to my own heart. She will be able to heal herself when she is sick, operate on little sleep, feed a family of six on a pound of hamburger, and juggle 19 different things all at the same time.” Suddenly the angel blurted out, “Oh, but Lord, there is something wrong with her.” He pointed to the woman and said, “It leaks.” The Lord smiled and said, “That’s not a leak. It’s a tear. Although the mother’s hide is incredibly tough, her heart is equally as tender. As a mom, she will endure much heartache, but in the end, she will say, ‘it was worth it.’” Mothers show us the tenderness of God. I have the wonderful pleasure of having two amazing women in my life. Growing up, my mom was an incredible woman of strength, talent, and tenderness and always ensured that my sister and I were raised properly. She sacrificed much for our benefit. I know without a doubt that I am the man I am today because of the influence of my mom. My wife is an incredible woman as well. She loves unconditionally and serves endlessly and sacrificially. She is constantly putting the needs of our family above her own wants and desires. She is an incredible woman of strength and love and is the glue that holds our family together. I would not be who I am today without her influence. Moms have typically carried the spiritual mantle in the family: In many churches, it is the women who serve as teachers and who are passionate about the helping ministries of the church. They work in the nursery, children’s programs, and look to meet needs through the ladies’ ministries. In many churches, if it were not for the women, the church would not survive. A great preacher of old, Dr. G. Campbell Morgan, had four sons who all
became preachers. One day, a visitor came into the living room where all the four brothers were sitting and playfully asked, “so, with all the preachers in the family, who is the greatest?” Without blinking an eye, one of them replied, “our mother.” I am so thankful for the investment of many woman who serve the Lord and His church sacrificially on a regular basis. They are truly carrying the torch and molding a future generation to serve the Lord. They do this with incredible strength, wisdom, and grace. Mothers deserve to be honored Thomas Edison is considered to be one of the greatest inventors in history. He was the youngest of seven children and was not the best student in school. His teacher thought that he was disruptive and perhaps unstable and unteachable. Edison’s mother, who saw beneath the surface, saw his inner strength and intelligence and decided to teach him at home. He would later say, "My mother was the making of me. She was so true, so sure of me; and I felt I had something to live for, someone I must not disappoint." It is true that Edison invented the light bulb, but it was his mother who provided the foundation and arena for his great creativity. For some of us, Mother’s Day is a positive experience. My childhood involved warm memories, pleasant experiences, and smiles. For others, like my wife, there is sorrow and pain. Her experience growing up was not pleasant. Mother’s Day is somewhat difficult for her. We never know where people are. For some, Mother’s Day brings up memories of a painful experience. Perhaps a mom who left too soon, or the heartbreak of a child. I’ll never forget a conversation where I asked a woman, “how many children do you have?” She said, “three at home and one in heaven.” Moms never stop being moms and may be carrying around incredible pain and sorrow and mask it with a smile. Also, there are women who would like to be mothers, but it just hasn’t
happened. Never ask a couple, “so, when are you guys going to have kids?” It may be, that they have tried, but it just hasn’t happened. But they smile awkwardly and go on. I know several couples who fall into this category. There is much pain below the surface. Many of these women choose to be “spiritual mothers” and love on other people’s children. Over the years, we have been incredibly blessed by many women who have loved and invested their lives into our children and children at church. Although they had no physical children of their own, they had many children and leave behind an incredible legacy. You’ve heard it said that when Jesus was on the cross, we were on His mind. This is true. But there was something else on his mind. Listen to these words from John 19: “When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple whom he loved [John] standing nearby, He said to His mother, ‘Woman, behold, your son!’ Then He said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother!’ And from that hour the disciple took her into his own household.” During Jesus’s greatest struggle, He made provisions for His mother. Jesus, the very Son of God, cared for his mother with His dying breath. It is right for us to honor moms. Moms are special. I love the story of the teacher who was trying to teach one of the students about fractions. She asked, “Suppose your mother baked a pie and there were six of you—your parents, you, and three brothers. How much of the pie would you get?” The boy thought for a moment and said excitedly, “one-fifth.” The teacher said, “I’m sorry, that’s not correct. There are six of you so that would be one-sixth.” The boy blurted back, “it would be one-fifth in my family. You don’t know my mother. She would say she didn’t want any pie.”
Dr. Wayne Geiger is the Pastor of First Baptist Grain Valley, an Adjunct Associate Professor of Speech, and freelance writer.
Healthy Eating
Page 8 Get Out And Grill
Greek Bowls with Balance Serves 4
by Megan Callahan, Hy-Vee Corporate Dietitian
The warmer days of May are here and it is time to pull your grill out and start cooking! Just a whiff of a steak sizzling on the grill will start your mouth watering. Beef…it’s easy, nutritious, delicious and America’s favorite protein choice. The beef aisles are brimming with exciting choices to add variety to your meals. There are several choices of cuts when it comes to steaks for the grill: Tri Tip Roast: Boneless and fairly tender with full flavor. Roast or grill, then slice across the grain. Strip Steak: Tender, lean and perfect for grilling.
Flank Steak: Lean and boneless with lots of intense beef flavor. Best when marinated and grilled or sliced thin and stir-fried. Coulotte Steak: Also known as Beef Loin with plenty of marbling. This is a juicy and savory steak and is easy to prepare on the grill. Sirloin Tip Center Steak: Also called Round Tip Steak or Breakfast Steak. Boneless, lean and a good value for this fairly tender cut. Marinate before grilling for the best experience.. We all know that beef tastes great, but did you know how good it is for you? A 3-ounce cooked serving of lean beef is around 170 calories, less than 10 grams of total fat and less than 95 mg of cholesterol. Beef is an excellent
source of protein and supplies 10 essential nutrients – including B vitamins, zinc and iron – that support an active and healthy lifestyle. The nutrients in beef provide our bodies with the strength to thrive throughout all stages of life. When it comes to choosing healthy proteins, you don’t have to give up the great taste of beef.
Megan Callahan is one of your Hy-Vee Corporate Dietitians. She is dedicated to helping people live healthier and happier lives. Megan received a bachelor’s degree in dietetics from Missouri State University. She completed her dietetic internship at the University of Kansas Medical Center, where she also received her Master of Science degree in dietetics and nutrition. Megan has been working with Hy-Vee full-time for 10 years. With a passion for nutrition and wellness, Megan is dedicated to educating customers and promoting healthy lifestyles to our Hy-Vee community. Megan lives in Lee’s Summit with her husband Matt, and their 2 children Kennedy (4) & Carsyn (2).
All you need: 2 beef boneless strip steaks (about 8 oz each), cut 1-inch thick 2 medium zucchini, cut in half lengthwise 2 medium red bell peppers, cut into quarters ½ cup nonfat Greek yogurt ¼ cup diced cucumber ¼ cup lemon juice, divided ¼ tsp salt 2 cups cooked quinoa 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley ½ cup reduced-fat feta cheese 1/3 cup sliced olives All you do: Place steaks on grid over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill, covered, 11-14 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, 11 to 15 minutes) for medium rare (145F) to medium (160F) doneness, turning occasionally. Place zucchini and peppers on the grill. Grill zucchini covered for 7 to 10 minutes and peppers covered for 11 to 14 minutes. While steaks and vegetables are cooking, combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, 1 tablespoon lemon juice and salt to make tzatziki sauce. Dress quinoa with the remaining lemon juice and parsley. Divide quinoa equally among four bowls. Slice steaks into thin slices. Chop zucchini and peppers into bite-sized pieces. Divide steak and vegetables evenly over the quinoa in each of the bowls. Garnish with feta and olives and finish with a dollop of tzatziki sauce. Season with salt and pepper as desired. Nutrition facts per serving: 374 calories, 108 calories from fat, 12g total fat (4g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 542mg sodium, 30g total carbohydrate, 5.1g dietary fiber, 37g protein Recipe source: Beef It’s What’s for Dinner:
THEME: 21ST CENTURY ACROSS 1. A bit cracked 5. Traitor's blow? 9. Cause of Princess' downfall 12. Hawaiian tuber 13. Prospector's mother? 14. Heavy footsteps 16. "Iliad" or "Odyssey" 17. Caribbean color 18. Frustration, in print 19. *Proponent of colonization of Mars 21. Small island 22. *Edmond Halley's apparition, 2061-2062 23. Expression of disgust or recoil 24. *2007 "Invention of the Year" 27. Give satisfaction 31. Neither a win nor a loss 32. Having no courage 35. Medicinal houseplant 36. Dodge, as in a tax bill 38. Take the gold 39. Anti-seniors sentiment 40. Immigrate 41. Bold and without shame 43. Take illegal drugs 44. Adverb of steep 46. Tower of London guard 48. *Legalized in many states 49. Cambodian monetary unit, pl. 51. Gift toppers 53. *Major spring 2020 occurance 56. *23andMe unit 57. Baron Munchhausen, e.g. 58. Original thought 60. Not yes or no 61. Nobel Peace Prize home 62. Long forearm bone 63. Formal wear, colloquially speaking 64. *Review service 65. *Walter White's concoction
DOWN 1. Polished off 2. Mock or make fun of playfully 3. Seed covering 4. Late Baroque 5. *Harvey Weinstein's new home, slangily 6. Part of chef's uniform 7. Sunbaked, archaically speaking 8. Bird's groomer 9. Opposite of knit 10. Competitive advantage 11. Combustion product 14. Boreal forest, in Russia 15. *Number sign turned metadata tag 20. Time being 23. Coffin alternative 24. Agenda entries 25. Turning point 26. Launch or throw 27. *Millennials' followers, for short 28. One hipbone 29. "Madagascar" predator 30. *Site of Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi/Houthi conflict 33. Best-laid plans often go ____ 34. Roman road 37. *Sites with no easy access 39. Anoint 41. Sandwich with acronym name 42. Ophthalmologist's prescription quantity 45. Wild West group 47. Os 49. Pay hike 50. All told 51. One of the Bridges 52. December stone 53. Clever tactic 54. Opposite of busy 55. Copper coin 56. Greenwich-related acronym 59. Expression of pleasure
Outdoors & Recreation
Page 9
Track Summer Birds Near Home For Fun And Learning by Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation Songbirds are free to roam, and their travels take them beyond wild places to the trees, shrubs, and grasses they find in cities or near rural homes. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) encourages people to get outside this summer and look for birds in their yards or neighborhood. Nuthatches and wrens will be looking in oaks and maples for insects to eat, or to carry back to a nest of young. Blue jays and bluebirds may be among the feathered visitors looking for food or nest sites. Robins enjoy pecking bugs out of a fresh-mowed lawn. People can simply enjoy listening to bird songs coming from the trees, or, they can use them as an educational tool, particularly for curious children. Children learn by observation and thinking. Birds offer lessons in colors, numbers, geography, and biology. The lessons can be simple or complex, but a stimulation of wonder and curiosity is found in either approach. In times when people are sticking close to home, and children are getting restless in summer, birds await by simply stepping outside and listening or looking. Simple birding tips: Start a birding journal. Use a school notebook, scratch pad, or stationary. Keep it handy. Children will note an adult’s enthusiasm for the bird journal and follow their lead. Include all ages in
spotting and watching birds. Once or twice a day go on birdseeking expedition in the back yard, the front yard, or perhaps a walk on the sidewalk. Take the journal. Teach the young to watch for birds, or to listen for their songs. Ask questions, of yourself or those with you. How many different bird sounds can you hear? Where are they coming from? Can you see the bird or is it hidden by leaves? Is there a pair of binoculars of some sort in the household that would help spot them? If you see the bird, what is the color and the size? Do you think it is male or female? Can you identify the species? How many birds have you counted today? How many counted so far this summer? Being a simple birder is good enough. However, if you or a family member is interested, a wealth of information about birds is available online. If a species is determined, say a blue jay, are they migratory or residents, or both? If migrants, where do they go and when? What do they eat? For example, if that smallish red bird doesn’t quite look like a cardinal. Perhaps it is a male summer tanager, one that spent the winter in Central America and is now feeding on bees and wasps in your backyard. If a female or immature male summer tanager is near, they will be a greenish yellow. Birds surprise with
variety. Bird feeders and waterers will attract birds in summer as well as winter. But they are not essential, as summer birds will be finding natural foods. Early morning and sunset are the prime times for hearing and seeing songbirds. But any time of day the curious feel like an outside trek is good enough. Don’t forget to listen for owls at night, or to watch for raptors such as hawks and turkey vultures soaring high in the sky during the day. Count them on the journal list. You can count birds heard in your journal listings as well as those sighted, like noisy crows. Make some birding sorties a quiet time for listening and watching. When people are still, nature’s sounds and movement stand out. Have fun, birds are enjoying summer, you might as well join them. For help in identifying birds, visit MDC’s web page at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ Zhc. Also, get general tips for birds and information about birds at https:// short.mdc.mo.gov/Zhp. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology offers a useful website called All About Birds that includes photos, bird song recordings, and information about habitats, diets, and migrations. Visit the site at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZhG.
MDC encourages people to step outside and watch or listen to the birds of summer in their yards or neighborhoods. Birds offer variety in colors, bodies, and habits, such as this greenish yellow female summer tanager, or the red male summer tanager (below). Photo by MDC
3 Ways A Deck Can Make Staying Home More Enjoyable (BPT) - With so many people across the country staying put in their homes right now, a fun and functional outdoor space is more important than ever. Amusement parks and concerts are closed or canceled, and spring is around the corner, beckoning families outdoors. Millions of people are working remotely and looking for a more natural option for their home offices. A well-thought-out deck could be the answer to making a staycation, whether forced or planned, more enjoyable. Here are three ways a deck can improve the at-home experience. 1. Fewer screens, more fun When kids are out of school, screen time usually goes up. Whether it's TV, computers, video games, phones or tablets, screen time is usually a sedentary activity.
A deck can provide an alternative outdoor play space where kids can be active and stretch their imaginations, enjoy the outdoors and do things like bring their favorite toys like building blocks, action figures or doll houses outdoors. Worried about splinters hurting those little toes and fingers? Composite decking is a beautiful option that makes sanding, staining, sealing and splinters a thing of the past. 2. Home office with a side of vitamin D Millions of Americans have moved to work-from-home situations recently and are looking for a way to get out of their stuffy home offices in favor of a workspace with natural lighting and a great breeze. Soaking up a safe amount of sun every day can reap big benefits for your health, according to physicians and the World Health Organization (WHO), including elevating mood,
improving sleep, promoting bone growth and strengthening the immune system. With the right patio furniture, a deck can make a great option for an outdoor workspace to soak up the benefits of the sun's rays. Choose a table of the appropriate height and a comfortable chair for extended work sessions, or a cushioned chaise lounge for shorter periods. Adding a screen or pergola to a deck can provide some protection from the wind (fewer important work papers blowing around). 3. Family time all year long If there's an upside to the increase in people staying home, it's the ability to connect with the other people living in your home. Life can get so busy with work, friends and other commitments that it's difficult to find time to connect or have a family game night. A deck is a great place to gather the members of
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your household for a laid-back evening of stargazing or a rowdy game night. And those family connections don't have to end due to summer's heat or fall's chill. By adding an outdoor heater, firepit or fans, you can extend your deck's use as a family space to the majority of the year. As you can see, a deck is a great way to expand the living space of your home and to provide an alternative space for all members of the family to enjoy.
Sports
Page 10
Honoring 2020 Grads With Senior Send Off Profiles Keely Hill Sport(s): Softball and basketball Plans after high school: I plan to play softball at Maple Woods Community College for 2 years and then go into nursing school to become a pediatric nurse practitioner. Highlights of your career as a student athlete: The highlight of my high school athletics would have to be all of the amazing relationships I made with everyone throughout the years, I made so many fun memories with people who I never expected to.
To say this has been an unusual and disappointing end to the 2019-20 school year would be quite the understatement. With the cancellation of the spring sports season and the postponement or cancellation of many of the traditional year-end activities to honor the senior class, Valley News wanted to highlight some of the wonderful student athletes who make up the Class of 2020. In the coming weeks, we will
highlight senior athletes in our Senior Send Off Feature and give them the spotlight they deserve. Seniors: You should receive information from your coaches with a link to submit your information for our Senior Send Off profiles. If you have not received this information and would like to participate, please send us an email to news@grainvalleynews.com. We will publish profiles in the order received.
Jack Knust Sport(s): Soccer, Football, Basketball and Track
What was the biggest lesson you learned as a student athlete? Never underestimate the time you have left; it goes by super fast. You don’t play for yourself, you’re playing for the name on the front of your jersey.
Plans after high school: I am going to Truman State University to study business and play soccer. Highlights of your career as a student athlete: Making it to the State Quarter Final in 2 sports in the same season. (Soccer and Football)
Thank You: Thank you to Ogle and Driskell for making my last softball season for high school a blast, I wasn’t even planning on playing until you showed up. You really made my last year the best! Thank you!!
Photo courtesy Keely Hill
Also, a huge thank you to Coach Draper for making all 4 years of my basketball career amazing. You’re such an amazing coach! Thank you for always listening to me and working with me to make me the best player I could be! Finally, a big thank you to Coach Carpino, you may have pushed me past my limits sometimes, but I knew you always meant the best. Thank you for helping me through things, teaching me new things, and pushing me to the person I am today!
Photo courtesy Jack Knust
What was the biggest lesson you learned as a student athlete? Not to take things for granted. As a freshmen I came into a team with 4 all state players and we made it to the final four. After that year, I assumed that I would have at least one more shot at the final four. My sophomore and junior year we couldn't win districts. Finally, my senior year we were one goal away from the final four but then lost with 2 minutes left in overtime. Now I am sitting at home missing all the last senior memories because of this coronavirus pandemic.
Thank You: I want to thank my coaches that I've had at Grain Valley High School. The coaches have been very influential people in my life. First, I want to thank Coach Lewis and Garrison for teaching me how to make the most out of every situation in life. They became some great friends to me while they coached me throughout the soccer season. They helped me realize hard work and having fun can go hand in hand. They made every second of the season fun and I loved playing for them. Next, I want to thank Coach Allie. He helped me build confidence, not only as a kicker, but as a person and leader. Even though I only played basketball for one year, I'd like to thank Coach Leiker, Rowland and Herbert who taught me how to play hard for a team. They also showed me how to better play with heart and passion. I'd like to thank Coach Winkler and Small for the 3 weeks I ran track. They taught me how to push my teammates in practice, so that we all develop as a team. I hate that my first and last track season ended so early. I was really looking forward to it. Lastly, I would like to thank Coach Nichol for everything he has done for me and my high school soccer career. He has made the biggest impact on me throughout my high school career. My freshmen year was truly an experience I will never forget. I played for one of the best teams in the state as a freshmen and he had the faith in me to play me in all the tough games we had. He saw something special in me as a freshmen. After that year he was hard on me and pushed me to be the best leader and player I could be which helped lead our team to the state quarter finals my senior year when many never thought it would be possible. All of these coaches, taught me lessons I will use beyond sports and high school and for that I am grateful.
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Sports
Page 11
Brady Looks Ahead With Fond Memories Of Grain Valley by John Unrein
The spring of 2017 was an important time in the life of Avery Brady. The high school freshman got playing time on the Grain Valley Girls High School Soccer team under the direction of Head Coach Tyler Nichol. Brady attributes much of her offensive growth and being an allstate soccer player to being able to play at the varsity level on a senior laden Eagles squad at such a young age. “My freshman high school season taught me so many things. Coach Nichol allowed me to gain some confidence, be a leader, and to learn how to play a different style of soccer. I wasn’t necessarily a starter or key player on my competition team at that time,” Brady said. “I got the opportunity in high school to play on the varsity team. It was cool to be ‘the freshman’ who played on a high quality team with upperclassmen. The experience turned me into being more of an offensive player, scoring almost every game and assisting on a lot of goals.” Brady continued, “I also got to play a ton of minutes that spring that I didn’t feel like I was getting at the club. In such a short season, I got close with all of my teammates and it makes the end so much harder. Coach Nichol was such a motivational and inspiring coach, that I wish I could have a little more playing time for.” Brady admits her love for soccer stems from her competitive drive to
win. Soccer is a sport that has been good to her since she started playing at the age of 9. Along the way she has learned to embrace the nerves experienced before competition as well as striving to do something positive that helps her team win. Motivation for Brady stems from accomplishing things that she has never done before in the sport along with the friendships garnered through playing a team sport. “I play midfielder. In soccer talk, I play the 8 and occasionally the 10. What that means is an offensive and defensive player who can track all over the field and support the flow of the game. I play in one of the two positions that require the most distance running. Which means I need to be able to run a lot,” Brady said. “I like to talk on the field, whether that’s to myself or my teammates, I’m always talking. I think communication is the best way for a team to play in sync. My game mindset is to possess the ball, for as long as possible, and find the right moments to attack. The longer the other team is on defense, the harder it is for them to get momentum to attack.” The United States Soccer Development Academy was founded in 2007. Its purpose was to mold players into elite prospects for its national teams, starting at a young age. The USDA had proclaimed success in producing recent professional soccer players such as Will Trapp, DeAndre
Yedlin, and Gyasi Zardes. The United States Soccer Federation announced recently on April 16th that it decided to eliminate the USDA due to the financial situation it is in because of the coronavirus pandemic. Brady made the choice her Freshman year to be a part of the Sporting Blue Valley U-18/19 out of Overland Park, Kansas that played in the USDA league. Success in the form of 100 percent scoring percentage found Brady in the league. Brady scored a goal in all 14 games she played in during the 20192020 season. “Joining the development academy was one of the biggest soccer decisions I’d made for myself at the time. Playing with FCKC (my old club team) was like being in a community with my friends and family, so leaving that behind was definitely a struggle,” Brady said. “I was now driving about 2 hours 4 to 6 days a week to attend practices and games with Sporting Blue Valley in Kansas. The development academy provided me with a network of players, coaches, and friends. We play 9 to 10 months out of the year which leaves almost no room for getting ‘rusty’ in the offseason.” “That is one of the main reasons I chose to make the move, knowing that I would have the most time possible for the development of my game before heading to college. While playing in high school is a memorable experience, I knew I would need competitive training leading up to (what I didn’t know yet at the time) playing Division I college soccer in the PAC 12 Conference.” The pressure to choose a college to play for at the age of 16 was admittedly stressful for Brady. Colleges were tightening their timeline and requesting that Brady make a decision soon. New offers and opportunities were opening up at every showcase event she attended. “This was all during my freshman spring, summer, and sophomore fall (2017). I was waiting to hear from multiple colleges (Utah, Colorado, Oklahoma State, and Oklahoma). But then I heard from Coach Rich Manning at Utah,” Brady said. “After the phone call, I remember looking back at my photos I had taken
Photo courtesy Avery Brady while on my visit to Utah. I stopped at one, a panorama of the mountains surrounding the campus. No other campus had that view. Of course, there were financial considerations, but I was drawn to the scenery as well as the commitment and patience of the coaching staff.” “Another secret most people laugh at, but it was a real factor, is the Power 5 conference (the Big Ten Conference, Big 12 Conference, Atlantic Coast Conference, Southeastern Conference, and PAC 12 Conference) aspect. I had always had a bias towards big sports schools.” Avery finished, “My favorite part of every visit was walking through the empty football, basketball, and soccer stadiums. I really wanted to be at a school where sports brought everyone together.” Avery is thankful for the impact her club coaches, Coach Nichol, and her parents have had on her ability to grow as a soccer player and as a person.
Community Calendar Monday, May 11, 2020
Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm City Hall, 711 Main Street
Wednesday, May 13, 2020
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting 6:30pm City Hall, 711 Main Street
Tuesday, May 19, 2020
Park Board Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S. Main
Wednesday, May 20, 2020
Last Day of School Grain Valley Schools
Thursday, May 21, 2020 Salute to Seniors Virtual Presentation Grain Valley Schools
Saturday, May 23, 2020
Grain Valley Aquatic Center opens
Tuesday, June 2, 2020
General Municipal Election
Friday, June 5, 2020
Movie in the Park: Abominable Show begins approx. 8:30pm Armstrong Park Pavilion—Free
Tuesday, June 10, 2020
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting 6:30pm City Hall, 711 Main Street
Tuesday, June 16, 2020
Popsicles in the Park 6:30pm Armstrong Park Gazebo Free—pre-registration not needed
Saturday, July 11— 11—August 15
Preschool Players— Players—Instructional TT-Ball Armstrong Park Ballfields $45 per participant (includes t-shirt and medal) Register online at http:// grainvalley.recdesk.com
Thursday, July 16, 2020
Sni Valley Graduation 7:00pm Jan Reding Community Room and Lecture Hall, Grain Valley High School
Thursday, July 23, 2020
Grain Valley High School Graduation Commencement Ceremony 7:00pm Community of Christ Auditorium, Independence
Add your community event at www.grainvalleynews.com.
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