Valley News: August 20, 2020 by grainvalleynews

Valley News www.grainvalleynews.com

AUGUST 20, 2020

Vol. 3, No. 33

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Absentee Voting Begins September 22nd July Jobs Report Shows For November Election With record numbers of voters expected to take advantage of absentee or mail-in ballots for the November 3rd general election, voters are encouraged to request mail-in or absentee ballots as soon as possible and return them well before Election Day. Corey Dillon, Director, Jackson County Election Board said high turnout is expected for the November election as well as a record number of requests for absentee ballot and mail-in ballots. Missouri does not usually offer mailin voting, but an exception was made for the August primary and November general election due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “If absentee or mail-in voting is what a voter expects to do, it is best to get the application to us as soon as possible. Once we mail ballots out around September 22nd, voters will need to return the ballots to us as quickly as possible. Don’t wait until the last minute,” Dillon said. “We have received hundreds of absentee and mail-in ballot requests for the November election..” Every registered voter is eligible to

request a mail-in ballot for the November election. To apply, voters must complete an application for a mail -in ballot. The application can be found on the Jackson County Election Board’s website, www.jcebmo.org. Completed applications may be mailed to the Election Board or delivered in-person to their office, located at 215 N. Liberty on the Independence Square. Once a voter’s application for mail-in ballot has been received, a ballot will be mailed around September 22nd. Voters must have the completed ballot notarized before returning by mail. The Secretary of State’s office is maintaining a list of free notaries on their website at: https:// www.sos.mo.gov/elections/ MailinNotary. Voters may also request an absentee ballot for the November 3rd election if they meet one of the following criteria: 1. Absent from your voting jurisdiction on Election Day; 2. Incapacity or confinement due to illness or physical disability;

3. Religious belief or practice; 4. Employment as a poll worker; 5. Incarceration (with voting rights); 6. Certified participation in address confidentiality program; 7. Contracted or in an at-risk category for contracting or transmitting COVID -19. Absentee ballots must also be notarized unless requesting an absentee ballot due to confinement or incapacitation due to illness or disability or in the at-risk category for COVID-19 (anyone 65 or older or with underlying health conditions listed on the application). Absentee ballots may be delivered to the Election Board in person or mailed as directed on the application. Applications for absentee and mail-in voting must be received by 5:00pm on October 21, 2020 for the November General Election. All ballots must be received by 7:00pm on Election Day. For more information, contact the Jackson County Election Board at 816325-4600 or visit their website at www.jcebmo.org.

Good News: Fries For School Supplies Now through Sunday, 10% of proceeds from a la carte fry sales at McDonald's restaurants across the KC metro, including the Grain Valley location at 712 N Main St, will be donated to local school districts. To support local teachers, owneroperators of McDonald's Great Plains CoOp launched a brand new fundraiser, Fries for School Supplies. At more than 130 McDonald’s restaurants across the Kansas City metro, Lawrence, and St. Joseph, 10% of proceeds from a la carte fry sales between August 17th - 23rd will be donated to local school districts.

Slight Improvement

The Missouri labor market continued to recover in July 2020, following major job losses due to COVID-19 shutdowns earlier in the year. Employment, seasonally adjusted, increased by 52,200 jobs over the month. Missouri’s smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased to 6.9 percent in July 2020 from a revised June 2020 rate of 7.8 percent, a decrease of nine-tenths of a percentage point. Missouri’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate has now been either below or equal to the national rate for 65 consecutive months. The national unemployment rate was 10.2 percent in July 2020. The estimated number of unemployed Missourians was 211,177 in July 2020, down by 25,026 from June’s 236,203. Due to lingering layoffs from COVID-19 shutdowns, the July 2020 seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was still more than double the July 2019 rate. The rate had reached a record low of 3.0 percent starting in July 2018, before edging up a tenth of a point in November 2018 and again in December 2018. The rate was steady at 3.5 percent in January and February 2020 before the COVID-19 spike began in March 2020. The rate peaked at 10.2 percent in April 2020 before decreasing slightly in May 2020, then moving strongly lower in June and July of 2020 as COVID-19 restrictions were eased. The state’s not-seasonally-adjusted rate was 7.2 percent in July 2020, down by seven-tenths of a percentage point from the June 2020 not-seasonallyadjusted rate of 7.9 percent. The corresponding national rate was 10.5 percent. A year ago, the state’s seasonally adjusted rate was 3.2 percent, and the not-adjusted rate was 3.8 percent.

3rd Annual Grain Valley Fair 5K Saturday, September 12, 2020 | 8:00am | Virtual 5K option. Proceeds from this event will be donated to the Mayor's Christmas Tree Fund, which donates money to local charities at Christmas time.

Local News

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Grain Valley Aquatic Center Pool Hours Adjust August 24th The Grain Valley Aquatic Center hours will adjust effective August 24th. The pool will be closed Monday through Friday. Hours on Saturday and Sunday will be Noon—6:00pm until Labor Day. The pool’s ﬁnal day for the season will

be Labor Day, Monday, September 7th, from Noon—4:00pm. The Grain Valley Aquatic Center is located at 713 N. Main ST. Daily admission is $5; ages 4 and under are free.

Grain Valley Fair Gains New Moniker To make light of a tough year for fairs, carnivals, and just about any public gathering, the Grain Valley Fair Committee asked residents to suggest a new name for this year’s modiﬁed fair. Many suggestions were offered via social media with similar themes involving social distancing, masks, and the unfairness of the situation. Natalie Knox suggested “The No Fair! Fair” and won a $50 dining credit at the fair for her creativity. The Grain Valley Fair is scheduled for

Friday, September 11th and Saturday, September 12th at Armstrong Park. The carnival and parade have been canceled, as have most of the non-food related vendors. Food trucks will be on site on Friday evening and Saturday. A select number of non-food related vendors are planned for Saturday as well. The 3rd Annual Grain Valley 5K is accepting registrations for both its inperson and virtual options. For more information on the Fair and the 5K, visit www.grainvalleyfair.com.

Neighborhood View

Work continues on the Dillingham Road Water Main and Trail Extension. Photo credit: Kate Unrein, Valley News

Police Blotter The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police Department daily calls for service log for the week of August 5-11, 2020. August 5, 2020 800 Block Capelle 200 Block Royer Lane 500 Block Walnut 600 Block Yennie 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 200 Block Michael Dr 1300 Block Broadway 1400 Block Persimmon

Citizen Contact Assault Agency Assist (BSPD) Business Check Stealing Citizen Contact Missing Juvenile Dealer's License Follow Up

August 6, 2020 700 Block Main St 1400 Block Hilltop Ln Casey Blvd & Jefferson St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Albatross I-70 at 25MM 700 Block Main St 900 Block Cross Creek 600 Block Yennie

Stealing Disturbance Abandoned Auto Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Stealing Agency Assist (CJC) Agency Assist (MSHP) Citizen Contact Alarm Disturbance

August 7, 2020 1200 Block Graystone Dr 400 Block Rock Creek Ln 600 Block Westview Dr BB Hwy and I-70 1200 Block Phelps Dr I-70 and BB Hwy 200 Block Broadway 100 Block Parker

Check the Well Being Citizen Contact Parking Complaint Prisoner Transport Alarm Agency Assist (MSHP) Disturbance Suspicious Vehicle

August 8, 2020 Walnut and Main Sts 900 Block Maplewood Ct

Animal Control Agency Assist (JCSO)

700 Block Main St 1700 Block Helen Ct Old US 40 Hwy 1100 Block Willow 300 Block Old US 40 Hwy 200 Block Broadway Cannon and Main Streets

Citizen Contact Alarm Area Check Agency Assist (BSPD) Disturbance Citizen Contact Citizen Contact

August 9, 2020 500 Block Whitestone 1000 Block Scenic Dr 700 Block Main St 1100 Block Golfview Dr 1000 Block Montana Ridge 600 Block Yennie 700 Block Main St 600 Block Whitney Ct

Run-a-way Juvenile Agency Assist (BSPD) Citizen Contact Disturbance Suspicious Vehicle Disturbance Citizen Contact Citizen Contact

August 10, 2020 1200 Block Lone Star Ct 700 Block Main St 1100 Block Willow 400 Block Rock Creek Ln 700 Block Main St 200 Block Main St

Disturbance Citizen Contact Stealing Suspicious Vehicle Found Property Suspicious Activity

August 11, 2020 1900 Block Elmwood Dr 1600 Block High View 400 Block Europa 1100 Block Smith St Main and I-70 US 40 Hwy and EE Kirby Accident

Area Check Warrant Service Welfare Check Prisoner Transport Disturbance Leaving the Scene of

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 Mail: PO Box 2972 Grain Valley MO 64029 Phone: 816.809.7984 Email: news@grainvalleynews.com Join us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: @grainvalleynews

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Looking Back: Earnest And Harvey Hubbard by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society Once again, last week’s article about Corporal Herschel Elliott has left me with more questions than answers. Below the picture that appeared with the article was the explanation for the star by six of the names. These were the men who had made the ultimate sacriﬁce for their country; or so I had been told. It was pointed out to me that two of the men appeared to be brothers. Thinking this might be an interesting story, I immediately decided to learn more about Earnest and Harvey Hubbard. For those of us who went through a box of Kleenex watching “Saving Private Ryan,” or remember hearing the story of the ﬁve Sullivan brothers who were aboard the USS Juneau when it sank on November 13, 1942, the idea that two brothers from Grain Valley had also perished…I had to know their story. Hubbard was not a name with which I was familiar. It didn’t seem to be “an old family name.” That is because the Hubbard family was only in Grain Valley for a short time. In 1930 and 1935 they were living in Kansas City where the father, Harry, was a lineman for the telephone company. By 1940, he had retired and taken up

farming in rural Grain Valley. Around 1945, most of the family moved to Winchester, Kansas. Harvey registered for the draft on February 1, 1941 and died on October 26, 1942 at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands. He won a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star and is remembered at the Cemetery of the Paciﬁc in Honolulu, Hawaii. Harvey Ellsworth Hubbard was 21 years old. Earnest Loyd Hubbard was 29 years old when he registered for the draft on October 16, 1940. And then I found more. After serving in Europe, Earnest came home on December 8, 1945. He later married, had 7 children and lived to the ripe old age of 79. He died on June 16, 1991 in Winchester. The Hubbard family had moved from Grain Valley before the war ended. I suppose we’ll never know why Earnest’s name was misspelled or why he ended up with a star. Willard Johnson, Robert Jenkins, Caryl Russell and Dale Stumpp did die serving their country. All four were Grain Valley graduates with many ties to the community. There were at least 16 sets of brothers on the board along with brothers-in-law and cousins. There are more stories to tell.

Brothers Earnest and Harvey Hubbard served their country in World War II. Harvey died at 21 years of age on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands. Earnest served in Europe and returned to the states, moving to Winchester, Kansas. Photo credit: Grain Valley Historical Society

Snack Attack

Roasted Chickpeas Servings: 4

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.

Snacking. Is it good or bad? The difference between snacking as a bad habit and it satisfying hunger between meals is in the timing. Snacking emotionally and mindlessly throughout the day can add extra calories and weight gain, but a snack strategically placed between meals and planned ahead of time can aid in weight management. Snacking not only can prevent overeating at our next meal, it can assist with blood sugar control and give us satisfaction and enjoyment. A good snack is carb-smart and is paired with a protein. When searching for the perfect carb-smart snack, keep fiber in mind. Fiber helps fill us up, curbing our cravings. A perfect example of this is fresh fruit vs. fruit juice. In comparison, one cup of juice and one medium piece of fruit have the same amount of carbs, about 20 grams. On the other hand, a cup of juice has no fiber and the fruit has 4 to 5 grams of fiber, making it a good source of fiber and providing you something that will really make a difference in filling you up. What do you pair with your fruit? Ideally, a good protein source. Protein also contributes to filling up your stomach. We should be shooting for at least 5 grams of protein in a snack.

Great examples of this include a hard -boiled egg, a cheese stick or 2 tablespoons of nut butter; they all provide us with 6 to 8 grams of protein. When looking for a good snack here are some suggestions: Snacks that are between 150 and 200 calories, low in added sugar, around 15 to 20 grams of carbohydrates, at least 3 grams of fiber and 5 grams of protein. The perfect snack would fit within these parameters. Aim for a snack that fits three of the five suggestions. If the package says 1 serving but doesn’t fit within these parameters, try splitting the package or choosing something different. Make your snack save the day with these simple tips and tricks. A good rule of thumb is to always be prepared. Try not to leave the house without a snack. This allows you plenty of time to scout out the best options that fit within your lifestyle. Granola bars or a trail mix are affordable and easy to throw in a purse or bag and take with you. Watch out for high-carb, high-calorie bars, and make sure you include a protein source in your trail mix such as almonds! You’re starving and you forgot your snack - what do you do? Many convenience stores have healthy choices such as fruit and cheese cups, yogurt,

Ingredients 1 (12 ounce) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 pinch salt 1 pinch garlic salt 1 pinch cayenne pepper Directions Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Blot chickpeas with a paper towel to dry them. In a bowl, toss chickpeas with olive oil, and season to taste with salt, garlic salt, and cayenne pepper, if using. Spread on a baking sheet, and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until browned and crunchy. Watch carefully the last few minutes to avoid burning. Nutrition Facts Per Serving: 160 calories; protein 4 g; carbohydrates 19 g; fat 8 g; sodium 335 mg; ﬁber 5 g

fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts and seeds, and popcorn. Do some refrigerator and cupboard searching and prepare yourself a betterfor-you snack. Try hummus and veggies, half a multi-grain English mufﬁn and peanut butter and Greek yogurt with chopped nuts or this great recipe for Roasted Chickpeas.

Business

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PPP Loans Will Cause Increase In Net Income by Lorne Meinershagen, CPA, Meinershagen & Co. By now most of you have heard of the Payroll Protection Program (PPP), and I am sure many of you have taken advantage of this great opportunity. However, there are a few things you need to know about how these loans are going to affect your taxes. You probably know these loans will be forgiven if the loan proceeds are used for the purposes outlined by the government. Sounds like a great deal, right? Tax free money from the government! Not so fast. Although it is technically true the loan forgiveness income is not taxable, what you may not know is the expenses you paid with the PPP funds are NON-DEDUCTIBLE. Let me say it again, any qualifying expenses you paid with PPP funds are NON-DEDUCTIBLE for tax purposes. (As of the date of this article) For example, let’s say you received $80,000 in a PPP loan. Through June, say your business had gross income of $100,000 and expenses of ($150,000),

resulting in a loss of ($50,000), so no tax due. However, included in your expenses were ($80,000) of payroll which was paid for with PPP funds. This ($80,000) is NON-DEDUCTIBLE, so your taxdeductible expenses are only ($70,000) (original $150,000 less the $80,000 nondeductible). You now have $30,000 of taxable income. Estimate Federal Income Taxes at 20%, and you owe $6,000 in Federal Taxes, and an estimate of 5% for State Income Taxes, you now owe $1,500, in State taxes. In this scenario, the tax free PPP money resulted in a total increase in taxes of $7,500 ($6,000 Federal and $1,500 State). The previous calculation is just an example, and EVERYONE’s situation will be different. A worst case scenario on the above $80,000 PPP loan, all of the expenses paid could be taxable and an estimate of 20% Federal Income Taxes you would owe $16,000 and an estimate of 5% State Income Taxes you would

owe $4,000 in State Taxes, for a total tax liability of $20,000 on your tax free PPP loan forgiveness! Key take away—before you spend all of your PPP money, consult with your tax advisor and see if you are going to owe additional taxes. If you will owe additional taxes, consider making an estimated tax payment with whatever PPP cash you may have left before you are out of cash and have a large tax bill. If you need assistance or need information regarding PPP loans, the related forgiveness and tax implications, please come see us at Meinershagen & Co.

To learn more about Meinershagen & Co., visit their website at www.mccpa.com.

Truman Heartland Community Foundation Awards Over $310,000 in Grants To Nonprofits Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF) announced more than $310,000 in grants have been awarded to 48 nonprofits serving the community. “This is a critical time for our nonprofits and agencies who work with those most vulnerable in the community,” Phil Hanson, Truman Heartland President and CEO said. “In response to the current crisis, we fast-tracked the review process for this year’s competitive grants program, expediting funding and providing flexibility nonprofits need to meet the ever-changing needs of our region.” Each year, Truman Heartland Community Foundation awards competitive grants to nonprofits that serve Eastern Jackson County, awarding grants in five interest areas: Arts and Culture, Community Betterment, Education, Health and Human Services and Wildlife Conservation in Missouri. Awards range from $2,000 to $25,000. This year, $48,600 in additional contributions were provided from Truman Heartland’s Youth Advisory Council, the Junior Service League of Independence, and multiple donor advised fundholders at the Community Foundation. Due to COVID-19, Truman Heartland canceled its traditional November

Grants Luncheon and accelerated their grant review process to award funding through this year’s competitive grants program in June and July. The following organizations are receiving grant awards from Truman Heartland Community Foundation: Angel Flight Central Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City BikeWalkKC Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kansas City Cancer Action Child Abuse Prevention Association Coldwater of Lee's Summit Community Services League Developing Potential Drumm Farm Center for Children Gilda's Club Kansas City Hands of Grace Harvesters Heartland Chamber Music Heritage Philharmonic Hillcrest Transitional Housing Hope House Hope Network of Raytown HopeBUILDERS Independence Meals on Wheels Independence School District Junior Achievement of Middle America

Kansas City Community Gardens Kansas City Hospice Lee's Summit Social Services Lee's Summit Symphony Orchestra Lee's Summit Underwater Recovery Marian Hope Center for Children's Therapy Meals on Wheels of Lee's Summit Mid-Continent Public Library Mother's Refuge Music/Arts Institute OATS Transit Peace Partnership Play to Learn Ministries Powell Gardens Puppetry Arts Institute Raytown Emergency Assistance Program Reach Out and Read Kansas City Rotary Club Youth Camp Association School of Economics Shepherd's Center of Raytown Sleep In Heavenly Peace – MOKansas City SE Chapter The Literacy Lab The Summit Church (Lee's Summit United Methodist Church) Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity Truman Medical Center Charitable Foundation Visiting Nurse Association

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Missouri Receives Grant For Shared Work Program The U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) yesterday announced that the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DOLIR) is the recipient of two grants, totaling over $1.8 million to improve and promote its short-time compensation (STC) program called the Missouri Shared Work Unemployment Compensation program. Missouri is the first state to apply for and receive the maximum amount available under the grant program. The program allows an employer to bring temporarily laid-off employees back to the job by dividing the available work among a group of employees. Shared Work employees receive a portion of their unemployment benefits while working reduced hours and retaining employer benefits. “Missouri’s Shared Work program benefits both large and small employers and their employees. It’s a win for employers, a win for workers, and a win for local Missouri economies. This grant will help both Missouri businesses and workers, particularly as we continue our recovery efforts,” Missouri Governor Mike Parson said. “The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided funding for States to implement and expand their Short-Time Compensation programs and I am pleased Missouri is stepping forward to take advantage of these funds,” U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia said. DOLIR reminds Missouri employers that now is a particularly beneficial time to enroll in the Shared Work program as the CARES Act provides for 100% federal reimbursement of the State’s Shared Work benefits costs through December 26, 2020. While roughly half of the states have an STC program, Missouri was one of the original states to have established its program more than 30 years ago. The CARES Act provides up to $100 million in grants for states to implement or improve an STC program and for the promotion to and enrollment of employers. The maximum amount available to each state is set in statute. Missouri proposes to use the grant funds to ensure businesses in the state are aware of the Shared Work program and its advantages, to enroll more businesses, and to continue to streamline the reporting processes for employers and workers. For more information on the Missouri Shared Work program, visit sharedwork.mo.gov.

Business

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Tips To Help Make Your Smartphone And Tablet Work As Your Mobile Office by Burton Kelso, The Technology Expert If you see me out and about, you are almost guaranteed to see me looking at my smartphone. No, I'm not a phone addict! My iPhone is an extension of who I am because it allows me to keep track of all aspects of my computer repair business Integral. Phone calls, invoices, marketing, and communication are all done from the palm of my hand. Times are changing and with more businesses working towards a mobile footprint, I thought it would be a good idea to share some of the things you should do if you want to work entirely from your smartphone. Check out this quick guide that will help you turn your smartphone and tablet to a mobile office. 1. Get the Right Software and Apps. You might actually think the type of smartphone or tablet you own is the foundation of your mobile office, but it's actually the software and apps you use day in and day out. Before rushing out and getting a new phone, check to see if the apps you want to work with will mesh with your current phone or tablet. When it comes to business apps, here are the areas you need to pay close attention to: Email: In most cases, the native email program on Apple and Android devices will work for business email. Most business users are used to Microsoft Outlook, and thankfully there is an Outlook app available for both devices. One other thing to consider with email is if you want to have your email sync with your email service. Some of you prefer to be able to delete emails from their account so the changes will

be reflected on both their smartphone and tablet. Some of you prefer to keep emails separated on your smartphone and tablet ... as well as your computer. Sit down take time to choose the best strategy for you. Cloud Storage: One of the reasons for eliminating the need for a computer or a laptop is to be able to access your critical documents from anywhere. There are many cloud storage services out there, but it's my opinion that you settle on one. If you're used to Microsoft and its products, the best option is to sign up for a Microsoft Ofﬁce 365 account and use OneDrive for your storage. If you prefer using Google Docs, then, by all means, sign up for a Google account. There are options for free and Gmail accounts. With a paid Google account, you're going to get access to tech support when things go wrong. If a paid account isn't in your budget, start out with a free account and budget in for a paid account as your ﬁnances grow. Mileage: Check out MileIQ (www.mileiq.com). for $5.00 a month, you can effortlessly track your mileage. If you're a QuickBooks Online user, you can use the mileage tracker built into the software. Accounting: Speaking of QuickBooks (www.quickbooks.com) QuickBooks Online is probably the best option for most of you out there. There is also Freshbooks (www.freshbooks.com) which works well on Apple and Android Devices. Word processing/spreadsheets: If

you're going to be writing, reviewing documents, or working with spreadsheets, you need to stick with whatever apps you were used to using on your desktop Windows and Mac. It's a Microsoft world when it comes to documents, but don't let that stop from using Google Docs or Apple's Office suite. If you share documents, you should probably use what your team is using. Scanner: A good scanner app is a must if working mobile. If you need to capture documents on the go, consider Adobe Scan. Use your smartphone's camera to capture documents and then save or send them as PDFs. Payments: If you need to take payments through your phone while on the road, make sure you have PayPal, Square, and Venmo. These are great, safe, and secure options accepting for mobile payments. Social media: If you use social media, make sure you download the apps for your favorite platform. Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram allow you to use QR codes to quickly connect with people you meet in the real world. 2. Get The Right Device. There's always that argument over which device is better. Apple? Android? Just about every smartphone and tablet can be turned into a mobile office. I like using an iPhone with a larger screen, but you need to choose a phone or tablet that has the right size and operating environment that fits your comfort level.

3. Make sure you're backing up your device. Anything can happen to a smart device, that's why it's important for you to make sure you're backing up your smart device. Virus threats are still low with smartphones and tablets, but physical damage can always occur and at any time. If you don't take the time to backup your mobile device, you're putting your customers and your reputation at risk. Automatic backup is the key, but What are your options? Well, you are limited to what you can use. Apple users have the option for iCloud Backup which will backup all of the Apple-related ﬁles to the cloud. Android users can use Google Drive and photos. Both services offer a limited amount of free storage before you have to purchase more storage, but as a business user, it's worth the investment. 4. Check that warranty. Most mobile devices come with a 1year warranty that covers factory defects, but they normally don't cover

your human goofs with your devices. If you are planning to use your smart device for work, you might want to consider purchasing a factory extended warranty ... not your friendly big box store warranty. Why? Well, when you have to send in your device for extended warranty repair, you're sending it directly to the manufacture, not some third-party vendor that your big box store uses. Also, the rate of return of your device will be quicker. Make sure you find out what the turn around time is for the repair of your tablet or smartphone. In some instances, it could take up to a week to get your device back. 5. Get a printer. It's rare that I use a printer, but it's nice to have one because from time to time, you need to have a hard copy of documents. Most printers have wireless capabilities which means you can print documents from your smartphone or tablet. Some even come with cloud capabilities which means you can send documents from your smart device to be printed back at your office or home office. It doesn't take much to get your business mobile. Once you get the right apps and hardware to work with your smartphone and tablets, the sky is the limit on where you can work. 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 Sock It To Me by Wayne Geiger Me and the Mrs. were walking through Costco recently. I was dragging my feet with my eye on the big screen LCD TVs. My wife, just ahead of me said, “Do you want to get some socks?” I turned my attention to the containers of socks and glanced at them longingly, already picturing them on my feet. They looked soft and comfy, but I blurted out, “No, we would need to buy several packages.” Now, the package of socks had four pairs and was about ten dollars. I did some quick math and figured we would probably need about three or four packages. I go through socks. As a runner, if it’s a “run day”, I’ll go through two pairs a day. I’ve been known to go through three pairs a day. “Why would you need so many?” she probed. In frustration I responded, “Because it’s time to redo my sock drawer again.” Feeling the escalating tension, I concluded, “it’s probably best for us to just keep walking.” She doesn’t understand my recurring sock dilemma. I have a thing for socks. When my birthday and the holidays come around, I always ask for socks. I’m not sure when it started, but I just like them. It’s also no secret in the Geiger house that, in the winter, I sleep with my socks on. I guess it’s not a secret anywhere now. Years ago, when I was younger, I was required to wear a tie at work. At the time, I was also a little more stylish. Back then, I used to accumulate all kinds of different socks. I had athletic socks, work socks, dress socks, and slippy socks just to wear around the house. Some were thick. Some were thin. These socks came in a plethora of different sizes, patterns, and colors. Some of them were low cut at the ankle, some to the calf, and some came up to the knee. In the olden days, my socks would match my outfit. Although I can’t match my clothes, somehow, I was able to match my socks to my clothes. Some of my favorite dress socks were ones that had various colors, stripes, and patterns. Now that I think about it, I guess it was hard not to match those multicolored socks with my non-matching outfit.

According to some sources, socks go all the way back to the Stone Age. Although nothing like we have today, these primitive socks were made from animal skins and pelts tied around the ankle. These “socks” didn’t cover the feet, but the lower legs and were more for protection than fashion. Socks were also worn in the times of Greeks and Romans. The Romans had socks that were worn with sandals. Eventually, socks became more of a fashion statement. During the Middle Ages, socks were brightly colored and, since they didn’t have an elastic band at the top, they were held in place with garters to keep them from falling down. They understood the incredible discomfort of having your socks slide down your legs and accumulate at your ankles. In 16th century Europe, socks, like other pieces of clothing, were regulated by law. For example, the City of London enforced laws that kept anyone from wearing the wrong kind of socks in the capital. These “sock police” checked the legs of people entering and leaving the premises. As time went on, fashions, styles, and materials changed, especially with the invention of Nylon in 1938 and mass production. In our generation, we have seen sock styles come and go. It’s been at the knee, the ankle, and the calf. Socks can also make a statement about our identity. I can remember my girls growing up and choosing to wear two different socks. Desiring to make their own fashion statement, they just wore whatever came out of the dresser drawer. The two boys were different. They just wore socks like me. Eventually, me and the two boys all had about the same size foot. Attempting to decide whose socks were whose was difﬁcult. What made it increasingly difﬁcult was that my wife would buy us all socks for Christmas. Oftentimes, they looked very similar. As time went on, eventually, my sock drawer was just overrun with socks. Adding insult to injury was that fact that my wife would wash the socks and leave them for me to fold and put away.

My folding and her folding are two different things. My folding meant you grabbed the whole pile, dumped them in the drawer, and worried about matching them later. My strategy led to all sorts of problems. For example, at times, one of my socks would just disappear. I don’t know if the washer or dryer got it or if it ended up in one of the boy’s drawers, but I would end up with one unmatched sock. This collection of misfit socks would go in a special corner in my drawer. Although I appreciated the 99 socks that were safe in the fold, I was continually looking for that lost one, waiting for its return. Unfortunately, the corner of misfit socks just kept growing and growing exponentially. This was a source of constant frustration. For one, it was difficult to get the drawer to actually close. In addition, it was super frustrating when I would dig through the socks and attempt to pull out a pair and pull out one that I liked, but found it was of the lone sock collection. Then came that one fateful day as I dug through my sock drawer frustratingly attempting to find a desirable match. Like a prisoner set free from the bondage, I exclaimed, “I’m done with this!” I had the passion and I had a plan. Without telling my wife, I went to the store, on my own, and bought several packages of the same socks. In the cover of night, I got rid of all the old ones. My new socks, like beautiful matching clones, were all the same: black and low cut. I had come upon a sock solution! No matter what two I grabbed, it always worked. I could even dress in the dark if I had to. Happy days were here again—at least for a while. Over time, three problems arose. The first problem was that the socks I bought were low quality. Left on my own at the store, without maternal supervision, I went for the cheapo ones. These wore out quickly. They developed worn spots and became uncomfortable. The second problem was that when I wore dress pants and sat down, my pant legs rose and you could see my

ankles. I would not have known this without the aid of my fashion designer and wife. The third problem was that, during the winter, my legs would get cold. To solve these problems, I decided to upgrade some of the “old” lowcut socks for a better quality. In addition, I also bought some long socks for the winter months. This worked well for a while. But, several problems arose. First, when some of the socks needed to be replaced, I would go to the store thinking I was buying the same type, but I was not. They were close, but not matching styles. In addition, I made the mistake of buying long, black athletic socks in a package, but realized later, they all had different patterns. Also, Christmas came around and, again, I got some new, different socks to add to the mix. So, here I am again. A drawer full of mismatched socks of various sizes and styles. This has been a continuous cycle of frustration. But I have not lost hope. In the midst of this writing, I turned over to check my email to see one from a sock company. They email me from time to time to say hi and to get me to buy their socks. I haven’t yet, but they look amazing. They promise no smell, no blisters, and no hot spots. These socks pull moisture away from the skin and are fast drying. They’re cool in the summer and warm in the winter. They are designed for runners and look amazing. Especially intriguing is that these socks are unconditionally guaranteed for life. If they ever go “bad,” they will replace them. That’s the good news. The bad news is that these socks start at $17 a pair and go up to about $35. So, I know it’s only August, but I already know what I’m going to ask for Christmas. I’m not sure how that will go over. Plan B is to ask for another sock drawer. I’ll keep you updated.

Dr. Wayne Geiger is the Pastor of First Baptist Grain Valley, an Adjunct Associate Professor of Speech, and freelance writer.

Community Voices

Page 7

Musings From The Middle Overthinking It All by Cathy Allie I have spent an inordinate amount of time in my life thinking and often worrying about things other people would never give a second, possibly even ﬁrst thought. I saw an overthinking meme this week that truly describes the kind of things occupying my mind. It said, “What is the exact right amount of eye contact so that someone knows I am listening but not trying to steal their soul?” This overthinking has increased during COVID isolation with my extra down time. If you aren’t scared yet, here is a peek behind the curtain for some more of my overthinking. Many of my thoughts center around family members and my dog, where one thought rabbit trails into many more. For instance, recently an entertainment program announced the birth of a celebrity’s son, that he and his wife named Wood. Within moments, I am thinking, “Should we have named my daughter something different?” My husband and I have both been educators, which signiﬁcantly narrows the name pool from which to choose. It only takes one ill-behaved Dustin or an eye-rolling Ashley to mark them off the list. I check the popular baby names list, half hoping my daughter’s name appears, to prove I have made a good choice, and half hoping it does not, so that it retains its unusual quality. Of course my daughter would prefer another name, as I would of at her age. And before I know it, I am thinking about what other names I could have had. Would I have made a good Phyllis? Could I have pulled off Victoria or Vivian? I know deep down I have not been that good a Catherine, but a passable Cathy. Still later, I am wondering how other people chose names for their children, and shamefully, thinking of better ones for them. Just this Saturday at the neighborhood pool, I watched Darrin splash his sister. He seems more like a Devin to me. That night as I head to bed, I call my dog into the room. I used one of several

cutesy nicknames we have for him. When he didn’t come, I called him by his full name, including his middle name. “Do other people give their dogs middle names?” I thought. Clearly I didn’t sleep for a while as I mulled that over. Some of my overthinking is about my house. My siblings and my mom can quickly visualize a room and how the furniture can perfectly fit into it. Apparently, that gene skipped me, and I find myself asking, “Will that couch fit there?” I truly wish I had a dollar for each time my husband has come home with me in the middle of pushing a giant hutch or table into a space that is about 6 inches too short for it. Measuring tapes are for the weak. I wonder if I can angle it a little, I think, as he heads into another room to not overthink anything at all. This past fall, I had a moment where I became obsessed with sectionals, which I thought would allow me to move pieces in so many ways, ignoring the fact that I cannot figure out anything for the current five pieces I have, much less those seven pieces including a giant ottoman. Other household musings have included “What is that smell?” and “If I pass away tomorrow, will people make fun of my messy garage?” My most recent overthinking about my house has to do with ceiling fans. Some of you are probably thinking that I am worried about how to clean them. I know how to clean them; not saying I do it often enough, but I know how. Actually, I am constantly wondering if the fans are rotating the right way. I read that they should rotate counter clockwise in one season and clockwise in another. But I can never remember the rotation for that particular season, as my Google search history would for sure confirm, with multiple hits on the topic. I find it again and am reminded that in the summer, I should have my fans rotating counterclockwise to push cool air down to the floor. I check them all, and I am good. But then I begin to wonder if there is a certain date by

which I should change the rotation. Should I just make an annual ritual of switching the fans as I put away my white pants so as not to wear them after Labor Day? And pray tell I don’t go to Home Depot after this search, as I may stand for several minutes making sure they have all theirs set to correctly rotate. Some of my overthinking happens around situations in which I will never ﬁnd myself and highly unlikely scenarios. What would I say if stopped by a national news crew and asked what I think about our current political climate? What if Publishers Clearinghouse shows up at my door and the dog runs out when I open the door and I have to chase him? Will they wait to award me my money? What if my college calls and wants to honor me as alumnus of the year, and then realize they have called the wrong gal (they were probably looking for a Vivian…)? Would I take the disappointment well? Would I rather sing a duet with Chris Stapleton or James Taylor? Would they stick me with harmony or graciously offer the melody? Are the towels in my car trunk clean enough if I have to help a passing motorist give birth? When the baby comes, should I suggest a baby name we didn’t use so I have a second chance? I overthink a great deal about things passing me by, and that some of my pop culture references have kind of lost their pop. Case in point: A young friend was talking about her nosy neighbor. She described her watching them out the window, always appearing on her deck when they are in the back yard, and even commenting on how many grocery bags they carried into their house. “Wow! She sounds like a regular Gladys Kravitz,” I said and laughed.

Nothing. My young friend had nothing. Not even from beloved Bewitched reruns. Some of the thoughts are more in the moment, like, “Should I put on pants for the Zoom meeting? “ or “How do seedless watermelons grow if you can never plant a seed for one?” (and by the way, if you know this answer, I am interested). My latest in the moment overthinking happened after reading a Facebook quiz. It listed about ten smells and said, “Which is your favorite?” Am I supposed to have a favorite smell? That sounds like something they would have asked a couple on the Newlywed Game, perhaps another pop culture reference without pop. “What is your husband’s favorite smell?” and I answer barbecue, when in reality it was my perfume. Bob Eubanks rolls his eyes. One a side note, I used to worry about how my husband and I would do on the Newlywed Game, but this many years in, there is so little we don’t know about one another. So little. One friend suggested homemade apple pie as her favorite smell. Another said a baby after a bath. Still another said fresh cut grass, and a dear sorority sister said wet cement. Further down the list, someone enthusiastically championed bacon. Now we’re talking. Was I wrong not to have a favorite smell? I asked my daughter, my husband, a co-worker, a large group in a Zoom meeting. They all had their own opinions, ranging from gas (ewww) to latex paint (I won’t be going to Girl’s Night with this friend anymore), to suntan oil from the 70’s, when the Coppertone line ruled. Before the suspense kills you, I have decided not to choose between my ﬁnal two, which are freshly baked molasses cookies and the air right before a rainstorm. I want to overthink it a little more.

Your Health

Page 8

Foods That Improve Eye Health by Megan Callahan, Hy-Vee Corporate Dietitian 2020 is the year of healthy vision. Celebrate and protect this vital sense with a diet of eyefriendly foods. You’ve probably heard that carrots are good for your eyes. In fact, carrots are just one of the many foods that maintain eye health and help them function. A diet rich with colorful produce and good-for-you fats promotes healthy vision and may reduce risk of disorders, like glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration. Take a long hard look at these nutrients and foods that help improve eye health.

spinach, sunflower seeds . Vitamin C: Supports cell and blood vessel health in the eye. May help delay or reduce risk of cataracts, age-related macular degeneration and visual acuity loss. Foods: Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cantaloupe, cauliflower, grapefruit, green bell pepper, kiwi, oranges, strawberries.

Vitamin A: Assists retina function and maintains moisture to help prevent dry eye. Beta-carotene, a plant pigment that converts to vitamin A, beneﬁts eyes adjusting to darkness. Foods: apricots, broccoli, carrots, cantaloupe, eggs, kale, mango pumpkin, red bell pepper, sweet potatoes, spinach, summer squash, tomatoes

Lutein + Zeaxanthin: Both are antioxidants that protect the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central, detailed vision. Both have been associated with reduced risk of agerelated macular degeneration and cataracts. Foods: asparagus, broccoli, collards, corn, eggs, green peas, green beans, kale, orange bell pepper, spinach

Vitamin E: Fends off harmful molecules to prevent healthy tissue from breaking down and reduces the chance of agerelated macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma. Foods: almonds, asparagus, avocado, collard greens, mango, peanuts, peanut butter, pumpkin, red bell pepper,

Riboflavin: Protects glutathione, an antioxidant linked to reduced risk of glaucoma. Prolonged riboflavin deﬁciency is associated with the development of cataracts.. Foods: almonds, beef, dairy, eggs, fortiﬁed breakfast cereal, oatmeal, quinoa, salmon

Zinc: Maintains retina health and shields eyes from the damaging effects of sunlight. Helps eyes produce protective pigments by transporting vitamin A from the liver to the retina. Foods: avocado, almonds, beef, cashews, chickpeas, crab, legumes, lobster, pork,

oatmeal, oysters

Tuna Salad for 1

Omega-3s: A type of fat found in the retina. Critical for visual development and retinal function. Plays a role in tear development to help prevent dry eye. Foods: anchovy, chia seeds, halibut, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, sardines, salmon, swordﬁsh, tuna, oysters, walnuts

All you need: 2 cups arugula and/or spinach 3 oz. Hy-Vee canned albacore tuna 1 Hy-Vee Short Cuts hard-boiled egg, sliced ½ cup cooked farro 2 oz. asparagus spears, cooked ¼ cup diced red bell pepper ¼ cup shelled edamame, cooked ½ tomato, cut into wedges Gustare Vita olive oil White wine vinegar

Thiamine: Also known as vitamin B1, thiamine aids the conversion of food to energy and may protect against nuclear cataracts, according to studies. Foods: acorn squash, beef, black beans, brown rice, English mufﬁn, tuna, trout, pork chop, oatmeal

The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice. 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

All you do: Line dinner plate with arugula and/or spinach. Top with tuna, hard-boiled egg, farro, asparagus, bell pepper, edamame and tomato. Dress with equal parts olive oil and white wine vinegar.

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).

Friday nights—4:30pm—7:30pm Visit the Grain Valley Fair Facebook page for scheduled trucks.

Beat the Heat with a Chilled Beverage (Culinary.net) Hardly anything beats a cold, refreshing drink on a hot day. This Fizzy Orange Pineapple Punch provides a chilling moment of relaxation with the sweetness of orange and pineapple combined with the cool flavor of orange sherbet. Find more drink recipes at Culinary.net.

Fizzy Orange Pineapple Punch 1 1 1 1 6-8

can (46 ounces) pineapple juice, chilled can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk can (6 ounces) frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed bottle (2 liters) ginger ale scoops orange sherbet orange slices, for garnish mint leaves, for garnish

In large punch bowl, combine pineapple juice, condensed milk and orange juice concentrate. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Before serving, add ginger ale and top with scoops of sherbet, orange slices and mint.

New LOCATION! parking lots bEHIND GV Community CEnter Thank You To Our Sponsors: Acquaint Gathering

Brown Agency

Faith United Methodist Church

BD Electric

Eagles Academy

Grain Valley Chiropractic

Boyson Tax

Edward Jones

I Noah A Guy

Page 9

Engage Virtually: Tips To Keep Older Adults Connected (Family Features) Connection and a sense of community can be critical to well-being as people continue to distance and isolate. It can be challenging, especially for older adults, but there are ways to engage, explore and unwind. There is no one-size-ﬁts-all solution, so choose a few things that suit you and commit to them. Remember to pay attention to your social and mental health while taking care of your physical health, and consider these ideas from the Administration for Community Living.

Connect Use social media to stay in touch with friends and loved ones or reconnect with people you haven’t seen in a while. Take advantage of video call platforms to see faces of family and friends while you talk to them. Write letters to friends and reminisce about some of your favorite memories. Ask them to write back and share their own favorite memories. Keep up to date with current events and stay connected to neighbors by reading local newspapers and community bulletins.

Explore Take free courses online. With subjects ranging from computers and cooking to studio arts and foreign languages, there is something for nearly everyone. Explore zoos and aquariums across the country through virtual tours and lessons. Many have live webcams that allow you to watch the animals in real time. Enjoy artwork from around the world. Thousands of museums and galleries are currently displaying their collections online through virtual tours.

Unwind Check your library’s free e-books and audiobooks you can borrow without leaving home. Consider joining a virtual book club to connect with others enjoying the same book. Host dinner or a game night with friends over a video chat. Word, trivia and acting games tend to work well virtually. Catch free performances online. Some opera houses and theaters are streaming plays and performances for digital audiences. For information on services for older adults in your community, contact the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or eldercare.acl.gov.

This week’s theme: Football ACROSS 1. It may be ﬁxed or blank 6. Sometimes appears between dogs 9. Wild West card game 13. Deprived of a limb 14. Go wrong 15. ____ and tattooed 16. Tsar's edict 17. Waikiki garland 18. Propelled like Argo 19. *Last year's Super Bowl MVP 21. *Recipient of this year's ﬁrst pick 23. Madame Tussauds' medium 24. Jack's legume 25. Communications regulator, acr. 28. Dry as dust 30. Echo 35. Yours and mine 37. Cold War enemies, slang 39. Common candle shape 40. Home of the Utes 41. Shinbone 43. Scotia preceder 44. Furiously angry 46. Like watching paint dry 47. Gulf War missile 48. Oozed 50. Clump 52. Yo 53. Common allergens 55. Not color but ____ 57. *The goal 61. *Primary football unit 65. Boy Scout's ____ badge 66. Pod dweller 68. Word of mouth 69. All worked up 70. Poetic "ever" 71. Home to largest mammal 72. Threads 73. *Defensive ____ 74. Locomotes

DOWN 1. Millionaire's turf, according to 2009 Oscar-winner 2. Bangladeshi currency 3. Wet nurse 4. Plant again 5. Swellings 6. Elvers 7. 're 8. Human social group 9. *Yellow and unwanted 10. Saint's "headdress" 11. Movie spool 12. *Vegas numbers 15. Laura Ingalls' hat 20. Make an effort 22. Organ of balance 24. Sleep disrupters 25. *Encroachment and false start, e.g. 26. Type of mandarin 27. Have a hankering 29. *2020 Super Bowl winning coach 31. VSCO girl's favorite shoe brand 32. Geologic period 33. Variety show 34. *Patriot no more 36. Pinta or Santa Maria, e.g. 38. Perfect houseplant spot 42. *____ Bowl, college game 1982-2000 45. Indicate 49. What Dundee and Dunedin have in common 51. *Last year's Heisman winner 54. Conical dwelling 56. Draw a conclusion 57. Do like exhaust pipe 58. Evil Roman emperor 59. What oxen do to plows 60. Acne symptoms 61. *One of ten needed for ﬁrst down 62. Church echo 63. Provoke or annoy 64. European sea eagles 67. Poetic "even"

Page 10

Outdoors & Recreation

MDC Offers Free Outdoor Programs In Kansas City Area by Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) continues to expand offerings of free nature and outdoor skills programs with COVID-19 precautions. MDC can connect people of all ages with nature, and several programs are upcoming in the Kansas City region. MDC’s Lake City Shooting Range is offering ﬁve-stand clay target shooting from 10:00am to 3:00pm on Friday, Aug. 21st, at 28505 E. Truman Road. This sport combines trap, skeet, and sporting clays to provide the challenge of all three games with less walking. No registration is required. There is a $4 fee per round of 25 clay targets. The event is held weather permitting. For more information, call 816-249-3194. MDC’s Burr Oak Woods Nature Center will offer a “backyard busters” program from 10:00am—11:00am on Saturday, August 22nd, 1401 N.W. Park Road in Blue Springs. This program for all ages is about native wildlife and insects that

help control yard and garden pests. Registration is required, to register visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZBG. Missouri had giant predators in the distant past, and the state still has significant ones today, such as black bears. Learn about them at a Burr Oak Woods presentation for all ages from 10:00am—11:00am Saturday, August 29th. Registration is required. To register, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZBf. How about some surprisingly tasty fish? Burr Oak Woods will offer a class on how to catch, prepare and cook fish such as gar, drum, buffalo, and Asian carp from 6:00pm—8:30pm on Saturday, August 29th, at the center’s education pond. Many crappie and catfish anglers bypass these fish. But with the right cooking styles they add to table fare. This class is for participants age 5 and older, families are welcome, registration is required. To register, visit https:// short.mdc.mo.gov/ZBN.

Learn an outdoor survival skill and a fun hobby when MDC’s Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center staff teaches how to twine prairie plants into sturdy rope from 1:00pm—2:00pm on Saturday, August 22nd, 4750 Troost Ave. in Kansas City. This program is for all ages, registration is required. To register, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZBx. Late August is a good time to see butterflies and all the pollinators. MDC’s Discovery Center staff will discuss all the beneﬁcial native insect and animal pollinators that fly and crawl, from monarch butterflies to small skipper butterflies from 10:00am—11:00am on Saturday, August 29th. Registration is required for this all-ages program. To register, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ ZBY. These programs are held outdoors. Participants must follow COVID-19 safety protocols including any local city or county mandate requiring masks that are in place.

MDC connects people with nature, including free programs in the Kansas City area focused on creatures from the black bears of southern Missouri to the monarch butterflies in your backyard. Photo credit: MDC For more information about these programs and those coming in September and October, visit https:// short.mdc.mo.gov/ZXo.

Burr Oak Woods Reopens Nature Center Building by Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has reopened the Burr Oak Woods Nature Center building. The nature center building was closed earlier to the public as a precaution against COVID-19. Special protocols for staff and visitors as precautions against COVID-19 are in place. Currently, county and city ordinances require people in public places to wear masks, so they will be required in the nature center while those ordinances are in place. Social distancing will be encouraged. The building has a reduced visitor capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Restrooms will be available, but water fountains will be closed. Visitors will need to bring their own drinking water and hand sanitizer. In the outdoors, Burr Oak Woods offers an extensive trail system through forest, woodlands, and restored grasslands. Those trails in the

conservation area surrounding the center were not closed and have remained open throughout the summer. Visitors are encouraged to practice social distancing while using the trails. The children’s play area inside the building at Burr Oak Woods will remain closed. Burr Oak Woods is also offering nature and skills programs in outdoor settings. Examples are ﬁshing or how to paddle a kayak. For a list of events and programs offered, and for links for registration and detailed information, visit https:// mdc.mo.gov/regions/kansas-city. For information about Burr Oak Woods Nature Center, visit https:// short.mdc.mo.gov/Zm5.

MDC has reopened the Burr Oak Woods Nature Center building at Blue Springs. The building has been closed to the public as a COVID-19 precaution. Hiking trails, forest and ﬁelds in the conservation area surrounding the center are open and have remained open through the summer. Photo credit: MDC

Sports

Page 11

Boys Swim And Dive Team Members Have Eyes Set Toward State Olympic swimming phenom Michael Phelps stated, “If you want to be the best, you have to do things that other people aren’t willing to do.” Not many high school students are willing to wake up before dawn to practice for several hours daily, but for the Grain Valley High School Boys Swim and Dive team, early mornings are just the price to be paid to reach the goals they have as a team. Head Coach Kara Liddle said this year’s team surprised her with the improvement she’s seen compared to last year. The program is entering its third year with nine swimmers and three divers, and Liddle is pleased with their progress. “It’s been really cool to see from year one to year three just how much they have improved,” Liddle said. While the early end to the 2019-20 school year did not impact the swim and dive program, shutdowns did delay the ability for swimmers to practice. Local club team programs and pool access were delayed due to COVID-19 related shutdowns. Liddle said the team was excited to ﬁnally have the chance to get back in the pool and have a sense of normalcy. “Getting up at 4:30am is hard, but they're here every day excited to get in

the pool and get back to normal,” Liddle said. While practice has resumed, the season ahead is still in flux. “It changes every day, which is kind of hard. We don’t know what our schedule is going to end up looking like. Luckily, I think we’re small enough that we should be able to do most of our dual meets because of size restrictions. I don’t think we’ll be able to have any of the larger invitationals this year, but. we’re just plugging along regardless,” Liddle said. One of Liddle’s goals is to help provide the student athletes a bit of respite from the uncertainties faced outside the pool. “I want to be consistent for them. I have the same expectations for them as in past years, but we are also focused on taking care of themselves and each other. This is their place to enjoy a bit of normalcy.” “High school swimming is different in that there is more team camaraderie, compared to club swimming environments. In club teams, you’re a team but the focus is on improving yourself and your own times. Here, they’re working for each other.” The team has their eyes set on State this year, with a goal of making a state time in relays.

“They got really close last year to making a State time in relays last year, and they are bound and determined that they are going to get there this year.” Senior Jordon Jarman returns this fall after a successful season last year. Jarman said his team is excited to get back to work and have their eyes set on a State qualifying time. “It’s going great so far. We’re getting up early, getting the job done. We have a goal to get that State time, and we are working hard to get it done,” Jarman said. The start of the 2020-21 school year certainly been different, but Jarman said he and his teammates are taking it in stride. “It’s been real strange getting back after having to take several months off, but all this hard work is going to pay off.” Jarman is quick to point out that a bit of help is needed from the adults in his life to keep him going. “Thanks to my mom for helping me get up and get to practice. Coach gets mad when I’m not here on time,” Jarman quipped, “but thanks to them both for keeping me motivated.”

“It’s going great so far. We’re getting up early, getting the job done. We have a goal to get that State time, and we are working hard to get it done,” Senior Jordon Jarman said. Photo credit: Valley News staff

Photo credit: Valley News staff

Community Calendar Thursday, August 20, 2020

September 11—12, 2020

Stay at Home Book Club Mid-Continent Public Library 7:00pm—8:00pm via Zoom www.mymcpl.org/events

Grain Valley Fair “The No Fair! Fair” www.grainvalleyfair.com

Monday, September 14, 2020 Saturday, August 22, 2020 Backyard Busters 10:00am—11:00am Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center Open to all ages.

Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 S Main

Friday, September 25, 2020 Kissick Classic Golf Tournament www.growgrainvalley.org

Shakespeare at Home Mid-Continent Public Library 6:30pm—7:30pm via Zoom www.mymcpl.org/events

Saturday, September 26, 2020

Monday, August 24, 2020

Monday, September 28, 2020

Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 S Main

Monday, September 7, 2020

Tuesday, November 3, 2020

Labor Day

General Election Polls open 6:00am—7:00pm Visit www.jcebmo.org to request a mail-in or absentee ballot.

Tuesday, September 8, 2020 First Day of School Grain Valley Schools

Wednesday, September 9, 2020 Planning & Zoning Commission 6:30pm Visit www.cityofgrainvalley.org for meeting location/dial-in information.

City Wide Clean Up Event www.cityofgrainvalley.org

Trucks scheduled for August 7th:

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