June 3, 2021 Vol. 4 No. 22
O n l i n e w e e k l y a t w w w. g r a i n v a l l e y n e w s . c o m
They’re getting the band back together...Marching Eagles look forward to new season The Grain Valley High School Marching Eagles (GVME) met for a mini camp the last week of the school year, practicing to perform together as one unit for the first time in over a year. The pandemic canceled much of their 2020-21 season, with staff scrapping their original show, splitting up the band into wind instrument and percussion/color guard units, and recreating two separate shows to meet social distancing requirements. Other than presenting these separate shows for parents and recording performances for virtual programs, the band has not had the
opportunity to perform together or travel in over a year. Travis Barzee, Director of Bands for Grain Valley Schools, said the excitement among students and staff is palpable. “We are most excited to be back together at all in any capacity to make music! Last year we never had the opportunity to get the full band together, so for over 50% of the ensemble, this year will be their first experience surrounded by a full marching band and all of the cultures and traditions that coincide with being together,” Barzee said.
see BAND on page 5
The Grain Valley Marching Eagles performed at a showcase for parents following a mini camp the last week of the school year. Photo credit: Stephanie Myers
Missouri Trivia
Two GVHS teams head to State this week To say it has been a successful couple of days for Grain Valley High School (GVHS) spring sports is a bit of an understatement. Following an impressive showing by the Track & Field team at the Class 5 State Championships in Jefferson City on Thursday, May 27th, both the girls soccer and boys baseball teams earned their trips to State competition with wins on Saturday. Following a 7-3 win against the Smithville Warriors on the field at Blue Springs South High School, the team returned to Moody Murray stadium to
cheer on the girls soccer team, who beat Platte County 2-0 to move on to the final four for the first time in school history. The girls soccer team heads to Fenton to face Notre Dame St. Louis on Wednesday, June 2nd and boys baseball will head to Ozark on Friday, June 4th to face Rockwood Summit. Valley News will cover both events and share live updates on social media (Facebook and Twitter: @grainvalleynews). See this week’s sports pages for a wrap up of an impressive week for GVHS student athletes.
Valley News welcomes Michael Smith as sports, staff writer Valley News is happy to announce Michael Smith has joined us as a sports and staff writer. We’ll let this Grain Valley native introduce himself: I am a 2003 Grain Valley High School graduate, and I received my degree in print and digital news at The University of Missouri-Columbia in 2010.
I've written for publications such as The Examiner, MissouriWrestling.com, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Ozark Sports Zone and the Columbia Daily Tribune. I love covering sports and have written about Grain Valley sports for six years. I look forward to many more years of following local sports for Grain Valley News.
Good News: City Wide Clean Up Saturday
by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society If this trivia section was presented each week as a question I would ask what holiday is only celebrated in Missouri. And the answer...Truman Day, a commemorative holiday to celebrate the birth of Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States. It is celebrated May 8 in Missouri as a state holiday, and nationally by
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the United States Democratic Party. Since Truman was the only president to come from Missouri, this day is special for this state. However, after the financial crisis of 2008-2010, there were unsuccessful moves by the state government to abolish the holiday which is a paid day for Missouri state employees.
Grain Valley residents who are planning to do some spring cleaning this weekend can take advantage of the City’s City-Wide Clean Up event on Saturday, June 5th. This free community event will be held from 8:00am—2:00pm on June 5th to help Grain Valley residents dispose of unwanted items. Proof of residency is required (ie: water bill or driver’s license).
Residents are asked to bag loose items, such as insulation and other small items. Items that are NOT accepted include tires, paint, oil, refrigerators, air conditioners, bagged trash and yard waste or clippings. The drop off will be held at the Public Works Maintenance Facility, 405 James Rollo Drive, Grain Valley.
In This Edition: Looking Back: Mr. Phil Turner
3
Your Health: Five reasons to incorporate dairy products into your diet
7
Sports: Track & Field leaves State with plenty of hardware
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Sports: Grain Valley advances to final four for first time in program history
11
Cover Photo: Alex Snyder alludes the tag at home plate to add a run on the scoreboard for the Eagles. See story on page 10. Photo credit: John Overstreet
Photo credit: City of Grain Valley
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Senior Luncheons resume July 7th After more than a year hiatus due to the pandemic, the City of Grain Valley announced its Senior Luncheon will return on July 7th. The event will be held from 11:30am— 1:00pm followed by Bingo, with glucose and blood pressure screenings at 10:30am.
Michelle Hawkins will provide entertainment at the July event. RSVP for the luncheon by calling 816-847-6293 or email info@cityofgrainvalley.org. OATS bus service is available by calling 816-380-7433 to schedule a ride.
Police Blotter The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police Department daily calls for service log for the week of May 19-26, 2021.
May 19, 2021 1400 Block Burr Oak Ln 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 600 Block Walnut St 1400 Block Willow Dr 700 Block Main St 1400 Block Minter Way 2000 Block Broadway 800 Block Lee Ann St 700 Block Main St 1500 Block of SW Eagles PKWY 1300 Block of SW Eagles PKWY 1200 Block of Dean DR 1900 Block of NW Hedgewood
Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Assault Stealing Suspicious Person Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Agency Assist-OGPD Parking Complaint Civil Matter Alarm Citizen Contact Physical Disturbance Suspicious Vehicle
May 20, 2021 300 Block of E 1st ST 1200 Block of Highview 600 Block of Shorthorn 1200 Block of Ashley DR
Agency Assist-OGPD Motor Vehicle Accident Solicitors Citizen Contact
May 21, 2021 700 Block of Main ST 100 Block of Sunny LN Nelson & Highland Garden & Eagles 400 Block of Rock Creek 500 Block of NW Whitney DR Whitney DR & Noland DR Main ST & McQuerry
Citizen Contact Disturbance Area Check Agency Assist-CJC Missing Person Suspicious Party Physical Disturbance Motorist Assist
May 22, 2021 600 Block of Walnut 700 Block of Main ST 700 Block of Main ST 200 Block of Cross Creek DR 500 Block of NW Willow 700 Block of Main ST 800 Block of San Kar 500 Block of Baily DR 1400 Blk of NE Amanda Jean Way 1200 Block of Eagles PKWY 300 Block of W Walnut 500 Block of N Main 100 Block of S Buckner Tarsney 700 Block of Main ST Eagles PKWY & Main ST 700 Block of N Main 1700 Block of Pond
Dog At Large Disturbance Agency Assist-MSHP Physical Disturbance Found Dog Civil Standby Disturbance Area Check Suspicious Vehicle Agency Assist-CJC Verbal Disturbance Alarm Agency Assist-CJC Citizen Contact C&I Driver Suspicious Party Disturbance
May 23, 2021 1300 Block of Blue Branch DR
Citizen Contact
700 Block of Main ST 1800 Block of NW Mya CT 600 Block of NW Whitney DR 200 Block of NW Michael Breadford CT & Dogwood 700 Block of Main ST 1600 Block of Eagles PKWY 700 Block of Main ST 1400 Block of S Buckner Tarsney 700 Block of Main ST 200 Block of Cross Creek DR 500 Block of Broadway 700 Block of Main ST 1100 Block of NW Baytree DR Sni A Bar & Broadway
Area Check Alarm Suspicious Vehicle Disturbance Noise Complaint Area Check Citizen Contact Warrant Arrest Area Check Citizen Contact Disturbance Agency AssistAnimal Control Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Area Check
May 24, 2021 I -70 & MM 26.2 800 Blk of SW Country Hill DR 1100 block of RD Mize 1100 Block of Sycamore 300 Block of Woodbury 1300 Block of Hilltop LN I-70 & MM 25 700 Block of Main ST 1200 Block of Boxelder CT 700 Block of Main ST 700 Block of Main ST 700 Block of Main ST Grandview PD 700 Block of Main ST 700 Block of Main ST 700 Block of Main ST
Area Check Suspicious Vehicle Dog Bite Alarm Animal At Large Citizen Contact Motorist Assist Citizen Contact Check the Well Being Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Warrant Confirmation Prisoner Transport Citizen Contact Warrant Confirmation Agency Assist-DFS
May 25, 2021 2100 Block of Dillingham 1100 Block of Christie LN 900 Block Shorthorn 200 Block of Rock Creek DR 2100 Block of Sycamore DR 2100 Block of S Dillingham RD 1300 Block of Lindenwood 2100 Block of Sycamore 200 Block of Barr RD 1400 Block of Eagles 1400 Block of Eagle Ridge
Area Check Physical Disturbance Welfare Check Animal Control Area Check Suspicious Vehicle Area Check Parking Complaints Parking Complaint Suspicious Person Off Road Vehicles on Street
Additional calls for the week: Suicidal subjects: 3 Domestic violence: 1
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 John Overstreet | Contributing Photographer Michael Smith | Staff Writer, Sports Mail: PO Box 2972 Grain Valley MO 64029 Phone: 816.809.7984 Email: news@grainvalleynews.com
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Looking Back
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Looking Back: Mr. Phil Turner by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society If you go on the internet and look for Phil Turner or Turner Music Store in Independence, you can learn about Mr. Turner, the Turner family, and their store. “Phil Turner opened his Turner Music Store in Independence, Missouri in the 1930s. It was to become a family owned and operated business until 1978 when it sold to the Prewitt family. The Turner name and the iconic neon sign stayed with the store even after it closed in the early 2000s. Turner specialized in “live” music, selling only musical instruments and equipment—no records were sold in the store. Music lessons were offered and Mrs. Turner actually started the first William Chrisman High School band. Turner Music then initiated the first school band instrument rental program in Independence. First located at 405 West Lexington on the square in Independence (the neon music note was installed in 1953), Turner Music opened their new store at 205 Lexington in 1969. The proud Turner family dubbed it “the most beautiful store in America.” What the internet doesn’t tell you is that Mr. Turner was the band director at Grain Valley High School. He was not in the 1939-40 yearbook and the Historical Society does not have a yearbook from 1941 or 1942, so I cannot be sure when he began teaching in Grain Valley. He is in the yearbook from 1943 through 1949. A new band director is pictured in the 1950 book. While I was not yet born in 1943, I have been told that Mr. Turner only came to Grain Valley a few hours each day and in the beginning, I don’t believe he came every day. I do believe he started the band program in Grain Valley. The following information was written in the 1943 Treasure Chest (yearbook). “Our school band, under the direction of Mr. Turner, got off to a good start this year. We played for most all home games of both football and basketball, and have always been ready to furnish patriotic or military band music for Bond Rallies and Red Cross Drives, etc. We were proud of the fact that the band sponsored, and Mr. Turner produced the Bond Rally Show here at the school and sold over $10,000 in bonds and stamps.” “It’s a definite fact that any band is much more popular with uniforms, and that has been one of our projects of the
Above right: Phil Turner is pictured at the front of the podium. Below: The 1947 Grain Valley High School band. Photos courtesy Grain Valley Historical Society.
year—to have uniforms. The first annual band show was a big success and got the ball rolling, and with the cooperation of Mr. Fullerton (principal), our uniforms are now being made. Late in the year, we discovered several very talented girls
who have organized a Majorette Corps to perform in front of our band.” The bass drum in the band photo I found in the 1947 Treasure Chest tells of the success of the Grain Valley High School Band in the early years.
On a personal note, I can tell you that the band was not this large in 1964, when I graduated from GVHS. And we still had the same 20-year-old uniforms! I’m happy to say our current band has returned the glory to Grain Valley.
Business
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Tips for surviving the first 5 years of small business ownership (StatePoint) What motivates entrepreneurs to become selfemployed? How do they measure success? What’s their cutoff for profitability and self-reflection on status? A new survey examining these very questions provides important insights to small business owners and those looking to start their entrepreneurial journey. “The Tipping Point: Making the Jump to Self-Made” report from global small business platform Xero surveyed 1,200 small business owners nationwide and, among respondents, 58% gave themselves five years or less to make it or break it - with newer businesses giving themselves an even shorter timespan on average. Here are some of the survey’s key findings, along with tips for surviving your first five years of small business ownership: 1. Define what success looks like: When they made the move to branch out on their own, 48% of small business owners defined success as achieving profitability, and 34% defined it as making more money than they were previously. Fast forward to the present with their businesses up and running and 28% of business owners cite creating a legacy as their success measure. Having tangible and intangible benchmarks of achievement can help you stay focused. 2. Know your “why”: According to the survey, one of the strongest motivators for starting a small business is the belief that it provides greater flexibility and control when you’re your own boss (45%). Passion/purpose in work (28%) and financial reasons (15%) were also strong motivators. Running a business can be tremendously satisfying when you understand what your “tipping point” was for taking a leap of faith and venturing out on your own. 3. Be flexible: Twenty-nine percent of small business owners say the pandemic has increased their desire to run a business, particularly among
younger business owners (43% of Gen Z vs. 18% of Boomers) and women (34% of women vs. 24% of men). But what do those businesses that thrived in the COVID-19 era have in common? “The majority of newer businesses have been set up on technology platforms and digitally enabled since their inception,” says Ben Richmond, US country manager for Xero. “They’re ready for and in many cases even expecting disruption, so they’ve established afoundation that’s open to pivots.” 4. Be realistic: While most business owners say they started their business for increased flexibility and control, being the boss doesn’t equate to less stress. In fact, that’s the biggest misconception about starting a business (47%). Another top misconception is that starting a business will be more fun than working for someone else (25%). Understanding the realities of entrepreneurship can help you avoid surprises, and ensure comfort in the role as it changes. 5. Lean on digital tools: When you’re a small business owner, it can often seem like there are never enough hours in the day. Using software that streamlines the nitty-gritty can free your time so it’s better spent on the big picture. For example, the cloud-based accounting software platform Xero gives small business owners and their advisors access to real-time financial data on any device. Its 2.45 million subscribers are leveraging its array of tools that simplify tasks like paying bills, payroll, claiming expenses and sending invoices. To view the full report and for more information, visit xero.com. “It’s certainly been an unusual year for business, but entrepreneurs are generally feeling positive about the economic outlook in the months ahead. For enterprises still in the make-it-orbreak-it period, that’s especially good news,” says Richmond.
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BAND continued from page 1 Each year, the Marching Eagles selects a theme for their productions, and this year’s production is titled “Chances Are…”. The theme “is centered around the idea of possibility. There are weather implications, so you will hear and see different earthly elements represented by vibrant colors from the band, color guard, and props. All music selections are centered around "chance" in some unique way. We're excited to get to work on it,” Barzee said. Members of the Marching Eagles will begin work in June in a series of sectional camps before starting full band camp in mid-July. Student musicians spend several weeks in full day rehearsals at the high school preparing the show for a season of competitions and home football game performances. Before camp can even begin, there is a cadre of staff, students, and parents doing prep work to make sure camp days run smoothly. “Oh man...these students are such incredibly hard workers. It's still fascinating to me to see teenagers display such grit and determination. Our Student Leader team is made up of just over 30 students and will spend dozens of hours printing music, moving equipment into the new wing, creating music folders for the entire band, team building exercises, and so much more. They, along with the Band Parents
Color guard and percussion units performed during a showcase for parents on May 27th. Photo credit: Stephanie Myers Association and my tenacious colleagues, are the true heroes of a thriving band program. It takes a village,” Barzee said. The band will once again be able to perform under the Friday nights of the football field after not being able to perform at games last year. These performances are just a part of the band’s schedule for the season. “We are so excited to get to perform at five home football games, in addition to four competitions,” Barzee said. The band will travel to Blue Springs South High School, Blue Springs Golden Regiment Invitational ("GRI"), Bands of America at Iowa, and finishing off at the Bands of America Super Regional at the Dome at America's Center in St. Louis.
The band program has also welcomed a new staff member to its ranks. Casey VanBiber has joined Grain Valley band staff as an assistant director, serving as a brass specialist with the Marching Eagles, and teaching at South Middle School and North Middle School. VanBiber is a Blue Springs native, growing up in the Blue Springs School District and graduating from Blue Springs High School in 2003. VanBiber attended Missouri State University, earning his bachelor's degree in Music Education. While at Missouri State University, VanBiber was principal euphonium in the wind ensemble, a member of the jazz band, a drum major with the Missouri State Pride Marching
Band, and was a marching member in the euphonium section with the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps. VanBiber has 13 years of teaching experience, serving as an assistant director at Blue Springs South High School, director of bands at Moreland Ridge Middle School, and most recently, director of bands at Delta Woods Middle School. For more information on the Grain Valley Marching Eagles and the band program, visit www.gvbands.org.
State News
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MO Republican calls for a change in Senate leadership over handling of FRA bill by Jason Hancock, Missouri Independent (www.missouriindependent.com) The simmering division among Republicans over a bill crucial to funding Missouri’s Medicaid program boiled over this week, with the state senator at the center of the debate calling for a change in the chamber’s leadership. Sen. Paul Wieland, R-Imperial, led the charge to include language banning the use of taxpayer money for certain contraceptives on a bill extending a Medicaid provider tax that generates nearly $2 billion every year. Wieland’s amendment eventually sank the tax extension’s chances of passing before the session ended — and will force lawmakers to return to Jefferson City to approve it before the tax expires on Sept. 30. This week, Wieland wrote a letter to each of his Senate GOP colleagues excoriating Senate Majority Leader Caleb Rowden and Senate President Pro Tem David Schatz over how the issue was handled during the final days of the legislative session. He accused them of “actively working with Democrats to defeat a position we had agreed upon in our caucus,” referring to an alleged deal discussed openly by Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo, D-
Independence, to approve the tax without the amendment attached. “I apologize for being foolish enough to keep Sen. Rowden apprised of my every move during the last week, only to have him be the true adversary I was fighting,” Wieland wrote. He also apologized for nominating and supporting Schatz in his bid for president pro tem in 2019. “Without a change in leadership, I have zero confidence that next year will be any better,” Wieland wrote. “I see no purpose in caucusing with leaders who have made it clear that appeasing Democrats is more important than working to further the majority caucus’ goals.” In a message to The Independent, Rowden said Wieland “has a right to his opinion about our caucus just as much as every other senator has a right to their opinion about him. “In the Missouri Senate, there are show horses and work horses,” Rowden said. “I consider myself the latter and will continue to let others be the former. I am proud of the historic accomplishments of this year’s session and I am hopeful special session will
allow us to add additional successes to this year’s list.” Schatz called Wieland a “principled and valued member of our caucus.” He said he reached out to him directly to address his concerns. “I am confident, even despite occasional disagreements, that our caucus will continue forward stronger than ever — uniting around our shared conservative principles,” he said. Wieland’s letter is just the latest example of the divisions among Republicans that bedeviled the 2021 legislative session. While Republicans celebrated a host of long-sought victories, some came over the objections of the Senate’s conservative caucus and were only possible with the help of Democrats — most notably an increase in the state’s gas tax and a prescription drug monitoring program. The divide was best embodied by the failure to renew taxes on hospitals, nursing homes and pharmacies that last year accounted for $2.3 billion of Missouri’s $10.8 billion Medicaid program. The tax is known as the federal reimbursement allowance, or FRA.
A last ditch effort on the session’s final day to extend the tax ended in acrimony. Proponents of the anticontraceptives provision felt leadership was trying to box them in and force through an FRA extension without their amendment. Democrats felt they had a deal with leadership to stick together to keep the bill clean and send it to the governor. The proponents of the amendment eventually won out, with the help of Schatz. Democrats, enraged over what they saw as a betrayal by GOP leadership, retaliated with a day-long filibuster that completely derailed the session’s final day. The debate left both sides of the debate feeling double crossed by Senate leaders. Leadership in both the House and Senate is decided by its members, and Republicans hold 24 of the Senate’s 34 seats. Wieland concluded his letter stating that, “the future of our caucus and the Missouri Senate is in our hands.”
www.missouriindependent.com
Your Health
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Five reasons to incorporate dairy products into your diet by Tara Sallee, MS, RD, LD, Hy-Vee Corporate Dietitian Tucked away, often in the back corner of the grocery store, is a group of foods that are a great nutritional gem — otherwise known as the dairy group. The dairy group includes milks, yogurts and cheeses and are available in many flavors and varieties. Consuming the right amount of products from the diary group is important for a wellbalanced diet. Even those who are lactose intolerant can still enjoy dairy in their diet. There are products in the market now that go through an extra process to remove the excess lactose. There are also a number of plant-based dairy alternatives available for those who are allergic to the milk protein. Here are five reasons to include dairy products into your regular diet:
Bone Health: Dairy products are a great source of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D. All of these nutrients play an important role in building and maintaining bone density in people of all ages. Quality Protein: Dairy products can be a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscle tissue among other things. 8 ounce serving of milk = about 8g of protein (13g in Fairlife ultra-filtered milk) 1 ounce serving of cheese = about 7g of protein (depending on the type) 150g serving of Greek yogurt = 10-12g of protein (about 15g in Icelandic yogurt) 1 cup serving of cottage cheese = 28g of protein Energy Production: The lactose found in some types of dairy can easily be converted into usable energy by the body. Milk is also a good source of certain B vitamins that play a crucial role
in energy production. Feeling Full: The protein that is found in these dairy products also takes longer to digest than the carbohydrates. Add a dairy product to your meal or snack to help keep yourself fuller for longer and avoid excessive snacking. Overall Well-being: Certain dairy products also contain essential nutrients like vitamin A, potassium and niacin; all of which have their own part in keeping the body healthy and in proper working order. Products from the dairy department make a great addition to a healthy and balanced diet. It is important to be conscious of your serving sizes and balance your dairy picks with other food groups. If you have more questions regarding dairy or your personal nutrition needs, contact your local HyVee dietitian. You can find out more about the
nutrition services available at www.hyvee.com/health.
The information in this article is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice. Tara Sallee is a Hy-Vee corporate dietitian dedicated to helping people live healthier and happier lives. Tara received a Bachelor degree in dietetics and nutrition from Missouri State University. Tara went on to attend Kansas University Medical Center where she received her Master of Science degree in dietetics and nutrition and completed her dietetics internship. She is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. With a passion for nutrition and wellness, Tara is dedicated to educating customers and promoting healthy lifestyles.
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Outdoors & Recreation
Pond management workshop offered June 12th by Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation Ponds have dynamic ecosystems, and thoughtful management can make the fish and wildlife that people enjoy at ponds more abundant. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will host a pond management workshop from 9:00am to Noon on Saturday, June 12, at Powell Gardens. The scenic gardens are east of Kansas City and west of Warrensburg off U.S. 50 in Johnson County. MDC biologists will provide information on managing fish populations and aquatic vegetation in ponds, including nuisance plants. Pond owners can ask questions and visit with biologists. Participants are also asked to bring plant samples or photographs of any plants causing problems in their pond.
Biologists can identify the plants and recommend options for control. Participants will also learn about aquatic plant identification. Some native aquatic plants are beneficial. But ponds can also become infested with non-native, invasive plant species that can harm fishing and aesthetics. Solutions are available. The MDC workshop is free. But Powell Gardens does have a $10 admission fee. Participants are encouraged to tour the garden’s rich floral displays and scenic ponds after the workshop. Registration is required. To register, visit the Powell Gardens webpage at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZrR. For MDC’s online information about pond management, visit https:// short.mdc.mo.gov/ZNa.
MDC will host a pond management workshop on June 12th at Powell Gardens. Photo credit: Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation
Last chance to apply for bear and elk hunting permits by Joe Jerek, Missouri Department of Conservation The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds Missourians interested in hunting black bears and/or elk in the state this fall to apply by the end of May. Apply by May 31 for both black-bear hunting and elk-hunting permits online at mdc.mo.gov/buypermits, through MDC's free MO Hunting app, through a permit vendor, or by calling 1800-392-4115. There is a $10 nonrefundable application fee for each application. Missouri residents 11 years of age or older by the start of the season are eligible to apply. Eligible Missourians may apply for both. Permit selection for bear-hunting applicants and for elk-hunting applicants will be determined by July 1 through a random drawing of all eligible applicants. Applicants can check to see if they have been selected for a permit by or after July 1 at mdc.mo.gov/buypermits by logging into “Manage Your Account” and selecting “View My Special Hunt History.” Those selected to receive a permit must have their hunter-education certification or be exempt by age (born before Jan. 1, 1967) before they may purchase the permit. The bear-hunting permit is $25. The elk-hunting permit is $50. All permits are nontransferable. More on Bear Hunting MDC will be offering 400 permits for the state’s first black-bear hunting
season this coming fall, Oct. 18–27. The maximum total harvest for the season will be 40 bears. Bear hunting in Missouri is limited to Missouri residents and restricts bear hunting to three designated areas of southern Missouri called Black Bear Management Zones (BMZ). Hunters must apply for a specific Black Bear Management Zone. Hunters who are issued permits must call MDC prior to hunting each day to determine if the BMZ-specific harvest quota has been met. Quota information will be updated no later than midnight on each day of the black bear hunting season. If a BMZ-specific harvest quota is met, the season for that BMZ will be closed. If harvest quotas are not reached, the season will close at the end of the 10 designated hunting days. More on Elk Hunting MDC will be offering five permits for elk hunting this fall. MDC has designated a nine-day archery portion running Oct. 16-24 and a nine-day firearms portion running Dec. 11-19. The five permits will be for bull elk and will be valid for both portions. All elk-hunting permits, including those allocated to approved landowners, can be used in Carter, Reynolds, and Shannon counties, except the refuge portion of Peck Ranch Conservation Area.
G R A I N VA L L E Y N E W S Locally focused. Family owned. Published weekly. Online weekly at www.grainvalleynews.com
Sports
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Track & Field leaves State with plenty of hardware GVHS Track and Field left the MSHSAA Class 5 State Championships at Licklider Stadium in Jefferson City on May 27th with plenty of hardware to show for their efforts. JayOnna Perry placed 6th in 100 meter hurdles with a personal record time of 15.22, becoming the first athlete in Grain Valley history to receive AllState honors in the largest class. Perry also placed 9th in the 300 meter hurdles with a time of 47.12. The Lady Eagles 4x8 relay team of
Earley, Holcomb, Casey, and Ogle finished 11th overall with a season best time of 9:54.06. Avery Huffman finished 12th in the 400 meter dash, and Jordyn Weems finished 16th place in the long jump at 4.86 meters. The pair then teamed up with teammates Perry and Emma Jane Ogle to run a school record time of 4:03.6 to place fourth in the 4x400 meter relay. Other notable wins for the girls team included a 13th place pole vault for Abby
Castle (9’8.5”), and a third place finish for McKenah Sears in the javelin with a throw of 39.54 meters. Sears was the top freshman in the field, earning AllState honors. The boys team had a successful outing as well. Senior Cole Keller completed his high school track career with a 5th place finish and All-State honors in the 400 meter dash, with a time of 50.39. Keller was a part of the 4x200 meter team, including Jacob McAhan, Logan
Pratt, and Carter Vrlenich to place 3rd with a time of 1:30.33, earning All-State honors. Pratt placed 4th and secured AllState honors in the 100 meter dash, with a time of 10.96. Pratt joined teammates McAhan, Tristin Pouncil, and Vrlenich, placing 9th in the 4x100 meter event with a time of 43.77.
THEME: NIGHT AT THE THEATER ACROSS 1. *Treble or bass ___ 5. Pharaoh's cobra 8. *Zeus' sister and wife, and character in Broadway musical "Xanadu" 12. Hair-dwelling parasites 13. Quinceañera or bat mitzvah, e.g. 14. Puts money in the bank 15. Pearl Harbor locale 16. Flair 17. Inuit boat 18. *Record-holding musical for most awards received by a single production, with The 20. *Broadway hit "Jagged Little ___" 21. *Comment to the audience 22. Web address 23. ____'er ____, at the pump 26. Private chapel 30. Keats' poem 31. Quit 34. Medley 35. ____ ____ or do nothing 37. Right-angle building extension 38. Razor nick 39. Like lemon 40. Make a choice 42. 1960s teen idol, Bobby ____ 43. Give authority 45. Bias crime perpetrators 47. *Theater, e.g. 48. Cordial disposition 50. Surrender 52. *Non-musical with record number of Tony nominations 56. Shredded cabbage dishes 57. *Melpomene, e.g. 58. Just a little 59. Gold unit 60. Lodge fellows 61. "Game of Thrones" bastard 62. Without purpose 63. Past tense of "is" 64. Short-term employee
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DOWN 1. Hoof sound 2. Yarn spinner 3. Canyon sound 4. Like medieval European society 5. Was sick 6. Fixed look 7. Montblanc and such 8. *Musical with record number of Tony nominations 9. Like most fairytale stepmothers 10. Madrid's Club de Fútbol 11. Pose a question 13. Chef's prescription 14. Toyota sports car model 19. Shylock's practice 22. Coffee pot 23. *Bob ____, choreographer with most Tony awards 24. *"Break a leg" or "have two left feet," e.g. 25. Reduce pressure (2 words) 26. Eye up and down 27. Mediterranean appetizer 28. Type of potato masher 29. Ox connectors 32. *Tiresias in "Oedipus Rex," e.g. 33. Feverish 36. *NYC district 38. Washington, e.g. 40. Sun's descent 41. Onion-like herb 44. Seize by force 46. Obsolete office position 48. Spurious wing 49. *Comedy and tragedy, on a Tony medallion 50. Attired 51. *James ____ Jones, multiple Tony winner 52. Old World duck 53. Like Silver's owner 54. H or O in H2O, e.g. 55. Make a raucous noise 56. Mogul equipment
Sports
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Eagles are state bound after win over Warriors by John Unrein Grain Valley Eagle first baseman Kaden Jeffries sat in the dugout prior to the game looking down with his head on his bat. Minutes passed and Eagles head baseball coach Brian Driskell considered checking on whether his clean up hitter was okay. Turns out Jeffries was only gathering his thoughts and visualizing doing good things during the Class 5 Quarterfinal playoff round versus the Smithville Warriors. The Eagles would win the contest by a score of 7-3 on May 29th at Blue Springs South baseball stadium. The precedence placed on envisioning positive things paid off for Jeffries in the top of the fourth inning. Jeffries pulled a fastball down the right field line well over the 325 foot sign. The no doubt home run left the entire Grain Valley bench waiting for Jeffries at home plate. A raucous celebration ensued on the way back to the dugout as the Eagles moved ahead 4-0 at that point in the game. Jeffries would end up with three runs batted in total in providing offensive muscle for his team. Grain Valley’s confidence was at a high point due to scoring at least one run in each of the first four innings. The Eagles dugout was louder than it had been at any point during the season. To say that Eagles came to play would have been an understatement. A sentiment echoed by Jeffries who held true to being a young man of few words. “The more chances I get to see the baseball throughout at-bats during the game the better I feel about my swing. Today was no different. I knew the baseball was gone (on the home run) as soon as it left my bat,” Jeffries said. “Getting to go to Springfield next and getting to travel with the boys was the best thing about today.” Equally as impressive to Jeffries fireworks at the plate was the effort on the mound by starting pitcher Cole Keller. The senior hurler would strikeout five Warrior batters and only surrender one hit across four innings of work. Keller would work top to bottom and both sides of the plate with his fastball and secondary offerings. The fastball would be Keller’s go to pitch when in trouble or needing to put away hitters. “I leaned on my fastball today until the second time through the lineup when I turned to my curveball. My breaking stuff felt good out of my hand, and I relied on my defense behind me to help keep them scoreless when I was pitching,” Keller said.
“KJ (Kaden Jeffries) is a special player. We have seen him hit balls over and off the wall all year. Bown showed up as well in relief. He is smart and is not necessarily going to overpower you with his stuff. I think he has like seven different pitches, and he locates all of them really well.” Keller continued, “I have never been to the semifinals before, and we will approach it like it is just another game. We will take this one step at a time with our focus being on preparation.” Bown has shown his mettle throughout the season for Grain Valley. The senior has gotten ready to pitch in relief on short notice, through a nagging injury, and with a fearless mentality when he steps on the hill. Bown was no different in the two and one-third innings he delivered for his team in the win against the Warriors. A Smithville team that refused to go away quietly, scoring three runs in the bottom of the fifth inning to make things interesting as the game progressed. Bown fought back emotion to stay composed in sharing his postgame thoughts. “There are no words to describe this feeling right now. It is awesome. I walked that guy and gave up a run initially. To get to go to the semifinals is unreal. We all have each other’s back and that is special,” Bown said. Driskell approached his team during preparation the day prior to the game in their film room with what he told them may sound corny but asked that they participate with faith in what was being asked. The Eagles were asked to close their eyes and focus on the first three innings of the game going well before something going sideways in the middle of the contest. The last thing requested by Driskell was to focus on how they would finish the game through any adversity they faced before picturing a jubilant celebration. Driskell would turn on the lights and tell his team to go get it done. “This was an incredible game today. I am a little bit lost for words. We played outstanding team baseball today. We did have a couple of hiccups and glitches as well. We missed a couple of signs that could have scored some runs. I am excited that we get to move forward,” Driskell said. “Jeffries is coachable and has been a consummate professional at the plate. He is a kid that has not shrunk in the moment.”
Driskell added, “Keller did a great job as well. He told me before the game that he had four solid innings for us and that is what he ended up delivering. I am proud of Cole’s effort and what this
team has accomplished.” Grain Valley (26-8) will next travel to US Baseball Park in Ozark for their matchup against Rockwood Summit (1714) on June 4th at 11:00 am.
Sports
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Grain Valley advances to final four for first time in program history by Michael Smith Grain Valley sophomore Kylie Barnett missed half of the girls soccer season with a broken right foot. She said she was only supposed to be out for a month or a few weeks, but the pain wouldn’t go away. That’s why when she came back around the 13th game of the season, Eagles head coach Tyler Nichol decided to only play her 5 minutes. From there, he slowly increased her minutes each week as the sophomore came off the bench. After a few weeks, the sophomore said she felt 100 percent, just in time for Saturday’s Class 3 quarterfinal game against Platte County. Barnett played a crucial role in the contest scoring in the 24th minute off a rebound that was deflected by Pirate goalkeeper Avery Krahenbill. That goal helped spark Grain Valley’s 2-0 victory as the Eagles will be making their first final four appearance in school history next week. They will face Notre Dame St. Louis at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 2, at World Wide Technology Soccer Park in Fenton, Mo. “It’s kind of surreal,” Nichol said of making the final four with the girls for the first time. “We had an idea early in the season that it was going to be this matchup in this game. It’s a game we’ve been waiting for.” “We’ve been close to making it a few times, so to finally get across that line, and for them to go and get that experience, we are just so pumped for it.” And the Eagles may not have made it without Barnett’s big goal. She said she felt good, and it reflected in her play and she fit right in with an Eagles team that has multiple players who can score. “(The pain) just kept continuing throughout the season when people stepped on it,” Barnett said. “Now I’m finally getting back. I got a great assist from (Annabelle Totta). I had to contain my excitement and remain calm. “Today it felt good. In past games (her right foot) has been a little swollen.” With Barnett playing more minutes, the chemistry was unaffected. The Eagles midfield and front line looked sharp Saturday. “When she came back from injury, she showed up and played amazing,” Grain Valley freshman midfielder Annabelle
The Grain Valley Lady Eagles soccer team celebrates their Class 3 tournament win. Photo credit: John Overstreet
Goalkeeper Camihle Williams keeps the shutout intact for Grain Valley with her save. Photo credit: John Overstreet Totta said. “She keeps her head up and she can find people. She has amazing footwork and she is able to keep possession when she has it and get rid of it at the right spot.” Nichol said he was getting emotional talking about Barnett’s big moment. “I can’t say enough about her. She works so hard all the time,” Nichol said. “We are just excited for her. It was awesome for her to be the one who
made the game-winning goal. It’s a moment she will never forget.” While Barnett’s goal was huge, Totta provided some insurance for the Eagles (21-2-1) when she executed a perfect give -and-go with freshman Emma Thiessen. Totta passed the ball to Thiessen, who gave it right back to her on a through ball. Totta tucked a shot inside the far post from the right wing with 15:45 remaining for a 2-0 advantage.
Kylie Barnett gains possession of the soccer ball. Photo credit: John Overstreet
Defender Sophie Broockerd stops the charge of the Platte County Pirates. Photo credit: John Overstreet “I was excited because we were right in front of the goal and it was because of Emma’s perfect pass to me, and I was able to finish it,” Totta said. Meanwhile, Grain Valley, which controls possession in most games, had an even battle with Platte County. Sophomore goalkeeper Camihle Williams stepped up big with six saves to help her team preserve the shutout. She had a couple of diving stops in the first half and stopped a point-blank
see SOCCER on page 12
SOCCER continued from page 11 shot from Platte County’s Addison Bradley late in the second half. Williams plays an aggressive style of goalkeeper and often comes off her line to challenge ball handlers. “To be in goal, you have to be willing to sacrifice yourself,” Williams said. “It helps your team a lot. If I hadn’t done that, we probably would have had to go to overtime. I know I am going to get hurt, it’s only for a second. It’s not like it’s a baseball or a bowling ball.” Coming off her line almost backfired late in the first half. A Platte County player lofted a shot toward an empty net when Williams was on the ground at the top of the penalty box. Center back Sophie Broockerd used a sliding kick to knock the ball away when it looked like it was going in.
Williams had a similar situation happen in the second half but Platte County’s Allie Corbin overshot the empty net. “Camihle was phenomenal today,” Nichol said. “She’s not afraid to come off her line as you saw. It made me nervous a couple of times. It was a risk vs. reward thing. She’s aggressive and that’s not something we want to coach out of her.” The Eagles now turn their attention to Notre Dame St. Louis. “To be honest, we don’t know a lot about them,” Nichol said. “We will watch film tonight and tomorrow and find out as much as we possibly can. Just based on their results, we know they are a quality team. After looking at the teams they beat I thought, ‘Wow. How are they not ranked in the top five?’”
Community Calendar Friday, June 4, 2021
Thursday, June 17, 2021
Food Truck Fridays Friday nights through September 10th 4:30pm—8:00pm Located in the lot behind Grain Valley Community Center See www.grainvalleyfair.org for weekly lineup.
Community Development Event 5:00pm—7:00pm Armstrong Park Free fun for the whole family! Photo booth, games, raffle with awesome prizes, and more. Public works demos, citizen education. Hot dogs, chips, and drinks provided.
Movie in the Park: Trolls World Tour Armstrong Park Movie begins at dark (approx. 8:30pm) Free event—bring your own chairs/ blankets.
Monday, June 28, 2021 Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 Main ST
Saturday, June 5, 2021 City Wide Clean Up event 8:00am—2:00pm 405 James Rollo DR, Grain Valley City Wide Clean Up is a free annual service by our Public Works division. Items that are not accepted include: tires, paint, oil, refrigerators, household cleaners/chemicals, air conditioner units, bagged trash, yard waste or clippings. Proof of residency is required.
Monday, June 7, 2021 Grow a Reader Storytime Shorts 10:00am—10:10am Join library staff for short and sweet storytimes. No registration required. www.mymcpl.org/events
July 19—23, 2021 Camp Focus For youth who have completed grades 6-12. Conducted by Grain Valley police officers and Volunteers in Police Service Camp Focus provides youth with an opportunity to learn valuable life lessons through education and mentoring. Camp will adhere to COVID-19 guidelines set forth by the Jackson County Health Department. Free—pre-registration is required. For more information and to apply, call 816-847-6250 or gvmopd@cityofgrainvalley.org.
Sunday, August 1, 2021 Midfielder Raena Childers pushes the soccer ball into the Platte County zone. Photo credit: John Overstreet
Tuesday, June 8, 2021 Mr. Stinky Feet’s Dinosaur Tails & Tales 10:00am—10:45am Join Jim for a tail-wagging dance party with lots of movement and laughter featuring his book, Bop Bop Dinosaur. www.mymcpl.org/events
Monday, June 14, 2021 Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 Main ST
Purple Peace Foundation’s “Cruise for Consciousness” Car Show 11:00am—3:00pm Armstrong Park, Grain Valley www.purplepeacefoundation.org.
September 13, 2021 Citizen’s Police Academy Sessions begins on September 13th Informational classroom training Hands-on experience Interaction with Grain Valley Police Force For more information, email cvanderlinden@grainvalleypolice.org.
Grain Valley Community Calendar sponsored by
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