Valley News www.grainvalleynews.com
SEPTEMBER 19, 2019
Vol. 2, No. 38
FREE
GVHS Promotes Open Access To AP Courses You may have spotted yard signs around town this summer promoting a student’s advance placement elite status. The celebration was for good reason. The sign represented a year of hard work by a student along with the emphasis the Grain Valley School District places on AP classes. Advanced Placement courses created by the College Board offer postsecondary level curriculum and exams to high school students. Colleges and universities may grant placement and course credit to students who obtain high enough scores on the examinations. School districts across the Kansas City Metropolitan area have a variety of ways they may shepherd students into AP courses. Grade point average, reading scores, Pre-ACT scores and other key performance indicators may be used in the placement of students into an AP
course. Grain Valley High School wants placement in AP classes to be driven by student choice. Dr. Jeremy Plowman, the principal of Grain Valley High School, is proud of the success his school has had in that they don’t base Advanced Placement enrollment on GPA or Pre-ACT scores. “If a student and their parents want that student to take an AP course, then they will take it. I want kids who may not get good grades, or are bored in school, or don’t do homework, to be enrolled in an AP class. A student should take an AP class if they have interest, an aptitude, or their plans dictate post-secondary education in a particular area,” Plowman said. “There is no prerequisite for getting into an AP course. We do have Pre-AP courses for the purpose of advanced
Photo credit: Grain Valley Schools
Good News:
Food For Fines Collects For GVAC
see ADVANCED PLACEMENT on page 6
Families Encouraged To Discover Fort Osage September 21st Jackson County Parks + Rec will present “Discover Fort Osage!” on Saturday, September 21st from 9:00am – 4:30pm, a new event for guests of all ages to explore the history of Jackson County’s first National Historic Landmark. The event will feature seven themed micro-tours, children’s story times led by Mid-Continent Public Library, crafts and living history demonstrations. Guests can also enjoy the sounds of old-time music from local mother/daughter duo “The East Creek Girls,” painting a scene inspired by the Fort’s Missouri River views with Happy Trees Painting Company and a tug-of-war competition. Admission is $8/adults, $4/seniors (62 and older) and youth (5-13). Children under 4 are free. Fort Osage National Historic Landmark is located at 107 Osage Street, Sibley, MO. Other event highlights include tomahawk throwing, historic games, medallion making, wax flint knapping, living history interpretation, blacksmithing, historic cooking and self-
guided museum tours. For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit www.makeyourdayhere.com/fortosage. Built in 1808, under the direction of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark expedition, Fort Osage served a dual role as both a military garrison and a trade center. Today, authentically attired historical interpreters take visitors on a journey through Fort Osage’s past. Visitors will enjoy breathtaking views of the reconstructed historic site that overlooks the Missouri River as they learn about the daily life of military, civilian and Native American populations at Fort Osage and explore museum exhibits at the Fort Osage Education Center in Sibley, MO. The Fort Osage National Historic Landmark is owned and operated by Jackson County Parks + Rec, the thirdlargest county parks system in the country.
Mid--Continent Public Library Grain Valley branch collected 266 food items The Mid Fines”” program the week of September 9—16. Items collected during its “Food for Fines will be donated to Grain Valley Assistance Council. Mid--Continent Public Library Photo courtesy of Mid
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Page 2 Jackson County Food Establishment Report Jackson County Public Works Environmental Health Division inspects all restaurants, grocery stores, schools, mobile food and temporary food establishments in the City of Grain Valley. The following violations were reported in the last 30 days: McDonald’ McDonald’s 712 N Main There was no paper towels at the hand sink near the grill. Repeat violation. Clean dish rack was covered in plastic wrap that was peeling up in several places.
The floor near the soda boxes had a build up of grease, trash, and debris. Corrected on site. The floor behind the tea station had spillage. The cabinet under the lobby soda fountain had a build up of flood spillage and moisture. The hood vents above the grills and fryers had a build up of grease. The exterior of the ice cream machine had an accumulation of food crumbs and spillage. The exterior of the drive through ice cooler was soiled. The hand sink near the grill did not have handwashing signage. Corrected on site.
Police Blotter
The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police Department daily calls for service log for the week of September 4-10, 2019. September 4, 2019 1000 Block Stoney Point Rd 100 Block Jackie Ave 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 500 Block SW Whitestone Dr 700 Block NW Par Dr. 300 Block Lela Ln, Buckner 700 Block Main St 1600 Block Amanda Jean Way 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 400 Block Walnut 1100 Block Golfview 100 Block N Lee, Buckner 100 Block SW Rock Creek Dr 700 Block Main St
Suspicious Person Agency Assist (EMS) Citizen Contact Harassment Suspicious Auto Check the Well Being Agency Assist (BPD) Harassment Agency Assist (LSP) K9 Demo Citizen Contact Parking Complaint Disturbance Agency Assist (BPD) Citizen Contact Citizen Contact
September 5, 2019 700 Block Main St Royer Funeral Home 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 1000 Block Sandy Ln 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 1200 Block Cedar Ln 1300 Block NW Willow 700 Block Main St 3300 Block S Outer Belt 900 Block NW Persimmon 500 Block SE 21st, Oak Grove 700 Block Main St 1400 Block Mary Ct
Agency Assist Police Escort Citizen Contact Suspicious Person Fraud Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Fraud Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Agency Assist (CJC/EMS) Citizen Contact Alarm Burglary Agency Assist (OGPD) Citizen Contact Disturbance
September 6, 2019 Main St/40 Hwy 700 Block Main St 1800 Block Mya Ct 200 Block Barr Rd 200 Block SW 12th St, OG 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St
Motor Vehicle Accident Check the Well Being Suspicious Auto Disturbance Agency Assist (OGPD) Citizen Contact Citizen Contact
September 7, 2019 200 Block Jefferson BB/Duncan Rd 3300 Block S Outer Belt 700 Block Main St 1300 Block RD Mize 1200 Block Scenic
Fraud Traffic Control Alarm Citizen Contact Disturbance Suspicious Person
Ephraim/Sni-A-Bar Main St/Front St AA/Sni-A-Bar Sni-A-Bar/Blue Branch 1300 Block RD Mize Duncan Rd/BB
Area Check Hit and Run Area Check Area Check Citizen Contact Citizen Contact
September 8, 2019 500 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 400 Block Graystone Dr 1300 Block Persimmon Sni-A-Bar/AA 600 Block Walnut 1200 Block Phelps Dr 500 Block Main St 300 Block Front St Main St/40 Hwy 1200 Block Boxelder
Area Check Citizen Contact Area Check Citizen Contact C&I Driver Disturbance Property Damage Burglary Disturbance Motor Vehicle Accident Harassment
September 9, 2019 Eagles/Royer 1400 Block Highview Ryan Rd/Minter Rd 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St Main St/I-70 KCPD 1100 Main St 1200 Block Pamela Blvd 700 Block Main St 100 Block Front St 100 Block Woodbury 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 1300 Block Foxtail Jefferson/Casey 200 Block Broadway Terr Rock Creek/BB KCPD
Suspicious Person Agency Assist (CJC) Animal at Large Citizen Contact Fingerprints Agency Assist (OGPD) Prisoner Transport Agency Assist (EMS) Stolen Trailer Citizen Contact Suspicious Person Area Check Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Agency Assist (LJPD) Agency Assist (MSHP) Disturbance Suspicious Activity Prisoner Transport
September 10, 2019 200 Block E Broadway Long/RD Mize 700 Block Squire Ct 1300 Broadway Ginger Hill/Lakeview 700 Block Main St 500 Block Woodbury 700 Block Shorthorn Charlotte/Elizabeth
Property Damage Citizen Contact Dealers License Agency Assist (OGPD) Area Check Citizen Contact Residence Check Disturbance Animal at Large
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
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Looking Back: Hometown Hero Robert C. “Bob” Harmon by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society
Robert C. “Bob” Harmon (1912-2008) grew up in Odessa, Missouri, graduated from Central Missouri State Teachers College in 1932 and completed his education at the University of Missouri in Business and Public Administration. On May 23, 1937 he married Mildred Irene Johnson, a teacher and native of Grain Valley, Missouri. Mildred grew up near Oakland School where she and her older sister, Grace (Johnson) Storms each taught for a brief time in the 1920’s and 30’s. Bob learned about radio while serving in the Marine Corps in the 1930s. During World War II, he worked for a manufacturing company in Kansas City which provided two-way radios for the military. When the company failed to find a civilian market for their radios they were forced to close. To provide work for himself and the many skilled individuals unemployed after the war, in September 1946 he started his own firm, Harmon Electronics. The company began in Independence with the goal of using radio and other electronics to inform railroad engineers about overheated axle bearings called hotboxes. If these were ineffective, the train wheels could lock up and cause trains to derail. With a contract from Southern Railway to use the equipment, in 1958
Harmon Electronics moved from Independence to its first owned facilities, a building on farm land next to the Harmon Home on Argo Road. For the next twenty-years Harmon Electronics remained a custom engineering firm to help clients find technical solutions. The work was done by only two dozen employees. Robert E. “Gene” Harmon graduated from Grain Valley High School in 1958. After obtaining an engineering degree from Georgia Tech in 1962, he returned to Grain Valley to assume a position in the company founded by his father. His first contribution was an electronic switch that improved the timing on railroad crossing gates. Crossing gates would not open for cars until trains had gone 100 feet or more down the track, but Gene’s device opened the gates after just two feet of clearance. His father liked the idea, and by 1964 the company had a major product to sell. Harmon Electronics remained a private company until 1972 when Gene Harmon took the company public. For the next fifteen years Harmon Electronics went through many acquisitions and innovations resulting in restructuring. In 1987 Harmon Industries, Inc., formed as a holding company.
Robert C. Harmon, 1932, second from left, is pictured prior to receiving an honorary degree, Doctor of Science, from Central Missouri State University President, Ed Elliott, second from right, at the 1996 Commencement Exercises. Flanking the two are Mrs. Mildred Harmon and their son, Robert E. Harmon. (Note: Dr. Elliott is a graduate of Grain Valley High School. He and Gene are current members of the Grain Valley Education Foundation Board.) Photo courtesy of the Grain Valley Historical Society Bob Harmon’s vision that begin in an upholstery shop in Independence, played a huge role in supplying the nation’s and eventually the world’s railroads with advanced systems for signaling, inspections, and train control and safety. By 1998, Harmon Industries was operated by a ten-member Board of Directors chaired by Bob Harmon, the only family member still involved in the firm.
The company was sold to GE Harris Railway Electronics and by 2000 it was known only as GE Transportation. Today, the plant at the corner of Argo and Dillingham Roads is known as Alstom Signaling Operations. It’s approximately 500 employees are still manufacturing railroad safety equipment and train and highway crossing signals.
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Business News
Funtastic Balloon Creations Will Help You Celebrate Your Next Event Those who have been frequent visitors to Pinterest or Instagram over the last ten years realize that balloon installations and decorations are nothing new. However, their popularity and the quality craftsmanship required by balloon artists to deliver them for special occasions continue to grow. A splash of color in the form of a balloon column, archway, or famous character may be just the right touch to draw someone’s attention to events that range from weddings to birthdays. People express their joy through balloons due to their three-dimensional eye-catching appeal. It shouldn’t surprise anyone then Funtastic Balloon Creations of Grain Valley promises “to put the pop in your next event.” Randy and Delora Harbin started Funtastic Balloon Creations fourteen years ago to bring the best custom balloon services to the Kansas City Metro area and beyond. From Columbia to Olathe, their business can provide the right solution for any event. Their goal is to treat your event as though it as one of their own in trying to obtain a high level of customer satisfaction. “We do a lot of balloon bouquets for Valentine’s Day, Weddings, Anniversaries, Hospital Get Wells, and Birthdays. Balloon columns and arches are also popular along with décor depending on the time of year. There’s a balloon for just about any occasion,” Delora Harbin said. “Balloons bring a smile to people’s faces. Bright colors, shapes, and print allow people to interact with balloon’s and the occasion. Their popularity continues to expand.” That popularity has manifested itself in balloon drops becoming more of a norm for big occasions or parties. The
Harbins have been up for the challenge with 9,000 balloons being part of their first drop three years ago. Success through word of mouth has spread leading to Funtastic Balloons doing drops for Labor Day events at the Sprint Center as well as the Missouri Mavericks Hockey Team. Funtastic Balloons is not a franchise and the brand has been built from scratch. The Harbins started their passion for what they do working out of their home. Their enjoyment of the community and long-standing customers are why they choose to live and work in Grain Valley. Both Randy and Delora are certified balloon artists. They completed a course of study that consists of computer testing as well as hands on assessment to demonstrate the ability to create balloon art accurately. This devotion to their craft has allowed them to offer the highest quality to their customers. “Being your own boss is the best part of being a small business owner. It’s not always easy because of the variety of roles you must fulfill. However, the things you do directly benefit your own good and you see the value in what you do. Getting to help people and make them smile is also rewarding,” Harbin said. Funtastic Balloons is located at 1103 NW Casey Blvd. in Grain Valley. You may also find them on Facebook, online at www.funtasticballooncreations.com or at 816-598-0690. A visit to the showroom will set your imagination in motion with the endless themes, colors, and shapes you may use to celebrate your next special occasion.
Top photo: Randy and Delora Harbin are the owners of Funtastic Balloon Creations. Bottom photo: A balloon arch created for the University of Missouri Business School. Photo credit: Valley News Staff
Business News is sponsored weekly by the Grain Valley Partnership, whose mission is to be a leader in the growth of Grain Valley.
The Grain Valley Partnership is located at 1450 SW Eagles Parkway, and can be reached by phone, 816-443-5162 or via email at info@growgrainvalley.org.
Learn more about the Partnership: www.growgrainvalley.org
Community Voices
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Wayne’s World The Perfect Piece Of Wood by Wayne Geiger
Every person has his or her own personality and idiosyncrasies. These generally are exposed in close quarters. Such was the case on a mission trip to Haiti several years ago. Six people, initially, barely acquainted and from different backgrounds, were suddenly thrust into a week of close quarters. It was a time of getting to know one another and learning to work with one another. The youngest member of our team, Carolyn, was passionate about several things. In addition to having a passion to serve God, she was passionate about her Rubik’s cube. I secretly wondered, “Out of all the things that you would bring to Haiti, you bring a Rubik’s cube?” And then I found out why. She could complete the puzzle in about twominutes! I was very impressed and, at each location, she demonstrated her amazing Rubik’s cube talent to the amazement of her audience. She was also passionate about water. Wherever we went, she had a huge plastic drinking bottle. She was constantly drinking and filling it back up. She was equally passionate about trying to get me to follow her example. She constantly asked, “Are you drinking enough water” or “I haven’t really seen you drink any water lately.” I was opposed to the idea. There aren’t that many porta-potties in Haiti. I prefer coffee anyway. Finally, Carolyn was passionate about finding a piece of wood while in Haiti. But, not just any piece of wood. It had to be perfect. She told our team that when she traveled abroad, she liked to bring wood back to her grandfather because he crafted handmade pens. We were all intrigued and wanted to help out. At least if I was looking for wood, I wouldn’t have to drink water. To say that Carolyn was adamant about finding the perfect piece of wood would be an understatement. She was
continuously on the prowl, searching high and low, reminding us to be on the lookout as well. Finding the perfect piece of wood seemed to be in the forefront of her mind throughout the entire trip. But what does the perfect piece of wood look like? As you would imagine, there were qualifications. She kept insisting that it had to be the right kind of wood. It also had to be a certain size, shape, and color. Finally, it needed to fit in her suitcase for the return trip. In short, it needed to be perfect. We looked for this perfect piece of wood everywhere. We looked while we were on base, at our VBS destinations, and we even looked while climbing the mountain in Pignon. I’ll never forget coming down the mountain and trying to keep my footing, while one of our guides, a nine-year-old boy, dragged a large tree branch down the dangerously steep descent. I didn’t know how big Carolyn’s suitcase was, but I was pretty sure the six-foot branch wouldn’t fit. Unfortunately, only Carolyn knew what the perfect piece of wood looked like. So, we would enthusiastically hold up a specimen and ask her, “How about this one?” Most of the time, we faced immediate rejection. Carolyn’s face would grimace, and upon a close examination she would respond kindly by saying, “It’s too soft” or “too hard” or “not the right kind” or “not the right color.” Scattered across the Haitian terrain are rejected remnants of less-thanperfect pieces of wood that didn’t make the cut (pun intended). If a woodchuck could chuck wood I don’t think his standards would have been that high. To be honest, we didn’t really care about the wood. Instead, we cared about our friend, Carolyn. Our motivation for finding this “pearl of great price” or perhaps, “wood of great worth,” was out
of our friendship and love for her. In the end, Carolyn selected several pieces of wood. It was quite the scene at the airport as she strategically reorganized her suitcase to bring beauties back to the states. She did not want to lose them in customs or to have them damaged in any way. Like a tigress, she would protect her chosen ones. I just knew that she would be caught smuggling wood into the country, and I would have to make that unfortunate call to her mom and dad. “Your daughter is a wood-napper.” Thankfully, she, and her wood, made it back safely to the United States. We came back with some great stories and memories of our woodfinding expedition. Several months later, on a Sunday morning at church, without warning or fanfare, Carolyn walked up to me and extended her hand. She held a pen. At first, I thought maybe she found it and wanted me to locate its rightful owner. “This is yours,” she said. Then, I realized, it was a pen that had been specially crafted by her grandfather out of the wood from Haiti! I was taken aback, somewhat speechless, and thrilled! All the memories of the trip immediately came flooding back into my mind, and I recalled how we all had searched for the perfect piece of wood. And now, it was in my hand. Not only did I receive a pen, but the entire team did as well. Each pen was a unique gift, beautifully hand-crafted by her grandfather. Although each of the pens were the same shape and size, they were all individually beautiful with
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variations of color and the grain of the wood—just like she wanted. Like fingerprints, they were each unique. They were the perfect gift. After getting over the initial shock of receiving such a thoughtful and wonderful gift, I later joked to one of the other Haiti mission members, “If I had known I was selecting a piece of wood for my own pen, I might have looked a little harder!” We laughed, but then, I began to think about a few spiritual applications. First, Jesus, the Lord of heaven and earth, the maker and sustainer of all things, went to the cross to die for the sin of the world. He would die upon a cross made of wood. That means Jesus specifically and purposefully grew the tree that He would die upon. No doubt, the most-famous and most -instrumental tree in history. I don’t know if it was the perfect piece of wood, but I do know it held the perfect Savior. Second, it reminded me of the concept of ROI (return on investment). Of course, I was only jesting that if I knew I was searching for wood to craft my own pen I would have looked a little harder. But in life, we sometimes forget that God’s desire is for us to invest our lives into the lives of others and to love our neighbor as ourselves. And in the end, we not only help them, but mysteriously, God turns it into a blessing for us.
Wayne Geiger is the Pastor of First Baptist Grain Valley, an Adjunct Associate Professor of Speech, and freelance writer. He can be reached at waynegeiger.com.
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ADVANCED PLACEMENT preparation.” “We did a study eight years ago and found that we had as many kids with a 2.5 to 3.0 GPA as kids to 3.5 to a 4.0 GPA. What we found was this: other than kids above a 4.0 who excel at everything, the kids with lower GPA’s (2.5 to 3.0 GPA) did just as well on the tests as the kids with the higher GPA’s (3.5 to 4.0 GPA). Your score is not necessarily grade related. It’s not because you’re just a good kid, have great parents, or everyone likes you. The test score you receive is graded by someone far away using data.” The College Board cites it’s a nonprofit organization that has run the AP program since 1955. It goes on to state the Advanced Placement Program develops and maintains guidelines for the teaching of higher-level courses with great rigor in various subject areas. Instruction in an AP course is a major undertaking for teachers. Teaching college level curriculum to high school students, preparing them for their final exam, and wearing the many hats of motivator, content guru, and task master is not without its challenges. Mendi Spencer is an AP Biology teacher at Grain Valley High School. Spencer identifies multiple benefits that come from taking AP courses, including gaining an advantage in competitive fields such as nursing or medical school. Spencer also acknowledges that an AP Biology course looks quite a bit different than traditional high school Biology. Key concepts are covered at a faster pace, problem-solving abounds, and that leads to the need to talk about research. Tackling real world issues in curing or preventing cancer, diabetes, and genetic diseases come to the front and center for students. Trials and rewards also exist for those who take AP courses. Spencer took the time to share her thoughts on both topics. “For students, the biggest challenge is managing time to keep up with the large amount of information covered. However, we have great science classes that prepare students well before they take AP. As for teachers, the first years of the class can be a struggle. I had to learn about 60% of the content I was expected to teach my students (even with the summer week-long training and professional development provided prior to teaching the course initially),” Spencer said. “Sometimes students start the year with poor study habits and will think the class is too hard for them. With a bit of guidance, I see poor students turn into great ones. When I see this happen, I’m so proud. I also love to receive emails from previous students that tell me their classmates think they are a genius and ask them for help all the time.” U.S. News and World Report annually ranks high schools across the nation.
continued from page 1
Students work on a project in an AP History class at Grain Valley High School. Photo credit: Valley News Staff They use four key criteria to compile the overall score given to high schools. They are the percentage of students who took at least one AP Exam, percentage of students who passed at least one AP Exam, Mathematics Proficiency on state level tests, and Graduation Rate Percentage. Grain Valley High School was ranked as the 38th best high school in the State of Missouri for 2019 based on Spring 2018 criterion data. U.S. News and World Report listed that 68% of students took at least one AP Exam, 30% passed at least one AP Exam, 69% Mathematics Proficiency, and a 96% Graduation rate. The publication should release it rankings for 2020 based on Spring 2019 criterion data later this year. Plowman indicated an increase in the percentage of the number of students who passed an AP Exam in the Spring of 2019 at nearly 40%. Furthermore, he expects 750 AP Exams to be taken by 450 students by the end of this school year. Grain Valley High School’s principal compares taking an AP class to playing Michael Jordan in a one on one basketball matchup. “You are not going to beat him and it’s not necessarily going to be fun, but you are going to know the level you have to be at for success. AP classes have an
advanced rigor with the test attached to it and college level work that goes with the course,” Plowman said. “I don’t care what grade students get in an AP class. I don’t care what score they get on an AP test. If they get college credit for the course, then great. It’s about exposure to an advanced level of work, stretching yourself academically, and taking a high stakes exam.” Plowman continued, “It might let a parent know if their kid can handle college. If they’re in an AP class and struggle, then do you pay for a four-year university after graduation right away? AP allows them to hit adversity. We have to put kids in situations where they must grow. You have to experience adversity to grow. It’s also mandatory that if you take an AP course, you have to take the exam as well. I receive some flak for that, and that’s fine because we consider the exam part of the course and challenge. We have other classes you may take if you don’t want to take an AP course or exam. Consideration has been given to students on free and reduced lunch status regarding affordability for the exam. Plowman indicated those students pay a flat reduced rate for the exam along with trying to exhaust other means if necessary, to make sure a student is not excluded from testing
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based on cost. Grain Valley High School also offers career related courses for students who may not be headed in the direction of a four-year college or university. Plowman indicated that approximately 70% of their graduates go on to a two or four college. Career technical education has been added to available courses for the other 30% of the student body. “We didn’t have that program until four years ago. Business, FACS (Family and Consumer Sciences), and Project Lead the Way are all pre-career programs. We also partner with the Career Technical Center in the Fort Osage School District, Summit Career Center, and the programs at Blue Springs including aviation and cosmetology nail tech,” Plowman said. Plowman explained the idea is beyond expanded course offerings and getting into career pathways so that a student may possibly take multiple classes in a career cluster such as culinary arts or accounting prior to graduation. The old saying goes, the future belongs to those who prepare for it today. 21st century college and career readiness may include exposure to an AP course and exam, to getting hands-on job-related experience with career technical learning.
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Minute Meals For Your Kitchen by Tracey Shaffer, RDN, LD
We have all been there. You get home from a long day and you are hungry! You don’t want to take the time to make dinner, so you just end up ordering food to go. And while that idea may be fine every once in a while, if it becomes a daily routine, it may cost you and your family an extra notch in the belt loop. Studies show that individuals who eat out daily are taking in about 200 extra calories a day. Many barriers may get in the way from cooking at home such as a lack of time, a lack of resources or a lack of knowledge. But you don’t have to be a whiz in the kitchen to make meals that are quick and healthy. With September being National Family Meals Month, it’s the perfect time to get back into the habit of cooking for you and your family. The first step to dining in is planning ahead. Take one morning or afternoon
to plan your meals for the week. Look at what evenings you and your family will all be at home to enjoy meals together. Check your pantry and see what ingredients you have and then make a list of the remaining items you need. Next, prep as much as you can beforehand. Having meat already cut up and cooked can be a huge time saver when preparing a meal. The same can be done to your fruits and vegetables; when you get home from the store, wash them before you put them in the fridge or pantry. That way everything is ready to go when needed. Here are some other tips for creating a meal in a minute: Use your slow-cooker. Although it takes between 6-8 hours to cook, putting the ingredients in the slowcooker before you leave for the day only takes a minute and then a meal is ready to eat right when you get
home. Simply throw in a protein source such as beef, chicken, or pork, add a little bit of liquid such as chicken broth, juice, soy sauce, or any other of your favorite flavorings. Add in a dash of seasonings and some cut vegetables to make it a complete meal. Use convenience foods. Grocers offer precut fruits and vegetables to help you save time when you’re making a meal at home. Find recipes with five ingredients or less. The less ingredients, the less prep work.
Tracey Shaffer, RDN, LD is a registered dietitian at the Blue Springs Hy-Vee. She can be reached at tshaffer@hy-vee.com. The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.
Crockpot Stuffed Peppers
Servings: 5
Ingredients: 5 medium green bell peppers 1 lb. uncooked ground beef 1/3 cup chopped onion ½ tsp. salt 1 (14.5 oz. can Italian-style diced tomatoes ½ cup uncooked instant rice ½ cup water 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese ½ cup medium salsa Directions: Cut off tops of green peppers. Remove seeds and membrane. Scallop edges. Precook peppers in boiling salted water for 5 minutes. Drain. Brown meat with onion. Drain. Add salt, tomatoes, rice and ½ cup water. Cover and simmer 15 minutes. Stir in cheese Stuff peppers two-thirds full. Arrange peppers in crock pot. Pour salsa over top of peppers. Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 4 hours. Nutrition Facts: 310 calories per serving Total fat: 6 g Sodium: 810 mg Total carbohydrates: 21 g Dietary fiber: 4 g Protein: 26 g
Plant Spring Flowering Bulbs In The Fall For A Beautiful Surprise In 2020
by Cathy Bylinowski, M.S. Horticulture, University of Missouri Extension
Now is the time to be shopping for and planting spring bulbs, such as crocus, tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils. Spring flowering bulbs need time to develop a root system before winter sets in. You should wait until the soil temperature falls below 60 degrees F before planting the bulbs. That means waiting to plant until late September or October. You can buy bulbs at most garden centers, or if you have enough time, order them through catalogs. By choosing different varieties, you can enjoy spring flowers from late winter to early summer. For an early bloom, plant crocuses and snowdrops. Daffodils bloom next, followed by tulips, squill, and grape hyacinth. Another interesting spring flowering bulb species to consider planting is species or botanical tulips. They are smaller than regular tulips, but are reliable, colorful bloomers year after year. When purchasing bulbs, buy only top quality bulbs that are large, firm, and of good color. Cheap bulbs will only produce poor, or sometimes even no, flowers. Choose a site that is welldrained and receives at least six hours of
direct sunlight a day. If the soil is poorly drained, consider raised beds. To prepare planting beds, dig up six to eight inches of soil. Add peat moss or other organic matter, then mix in fertilizer containing phosphorus such as rock phosphate, superphosphate, or special bulb fertilizer. If rodents or other small mammals are a problem, bone meal will only attract them. You can help avoid digging problems by placing a fine wire mesh over the bulb bed. Or place sharply crushed rocks or shells you can buy for this purpose around bulbs at time of planting. You can find these at garden centers or farm supply stores. Bulbs often look best planted in groups or clumps rather than in rows. For a nice show of color, plant bulbs in front of evergreen shrubs or among perennials and other flowering shrubs. Formal tulips look best planted in beds in symmetrical arrangements while daffodils should be planted in "naturalized" or informal plantings. Plant bulbs upright, pointed ends up, at the recommended depth. As a rule of thumb, bulbs should be planted three times as deep as the bulb's greatest dimension. Use a shovel, trowel, or bulb
planter, and space bulbs according to size. Large bulbs such as tulips and daffodils should be placed four to six inches apart. Smaller bulbs such as crocus, snowdrops, and squill should be placed one to two inches apart. When plants emerge in spring, fertilize lightly with bulb fertilizer at least two inches from the plant. Once flowers fade, use scissors or clippers to remove the flower parts and stem before the plant produces seed pods. However, let the leaves remain until they have turned yellow and died down, so the bulbs get plenty of nourishment for the following spring's display. You can camouflage the bulb foliage by planting summer annuals around the bulbs once the danger of frost is past. Although most spring-flowering bulbs are perennials, you may need to replant tulips and hyacinths each year as these blooms aren't as vigorous the following bloom seasons. Daffodils, scilla, and crocus, on the other hand, are stronger and spread further with each bloom season, so are best left undisturbed. If bulbs become overcrowded, with fewer and smaller flowers, they may need dividing. Under ideal conditions this may
Siberian Squill (Scilla siberica) Photo from Wikipedia Commons be every two or three years. The best time is when the foliage begins to turn yellow. Replant immediately, following the fertilizer and planting recommendations described above. If you need to move perennial springflowering bulbs, it is best to do so after bloom before the foliage dies and you can’t find the bulbs. You can pot them, or “heel them in” planting in a group or in a row to allow the leaves to die back normally. Call University of Missouri ExtensionJackson County, in Blue Springs, MO, 816252-5051, for more information on spring flowering bulbs or other topics in horticulture.
Page 8 MDC Monitors Wetland Conditions As Waterfowl Seasons Approach by Bill Graham, MO Department of Conservation
Spring and summer flooding will affect the habitat conditions that waterfowl hunters will find this autumn at some Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) areas managed with a wetland emphasis. But some wetlands will offer normal conditions for migrating waterfowl. The Settle’s Ford Conservation Area in Cass and Bates counties south of Kansas City flooded four times this spring and summer. But the area did not suffer significant damage and waterfowl hunting opportunities should be normal, said Brian Bokern, MDC wildlife management biologist. The growth of moist soil plants that provide food and cover for waterfowl was poor to excellent, varying between pools. Hunters may want to scout the conditions ahead of the season in locations open to hunting. MDC staff did plant corn in bottom fields. But the crop was planted late and it is uncertain if the plants will mature enough to produce corn. Settle’s Ford Conservation Area does have good water levels in all pools. That should benefit migratory waterfowl, nongame wildlife, and hunting opportunities. The Montrose Conservation Area in
Henry County is expected to have good water levels until the end of the waterfowl season, Bokern said. Hunting blinds will be available, all normal regulations and procedures for the area remain in place. Moist soil plant growth was poor in the area’s wetland pools, but that growth is fair to good in the upper end of Montrose Lake. High water has not helped conditions at the Grand Pass Conservation Area in Saline County. Also, hunter accessibility may depend on the weather and Missouri River levels. The high river levels prevented MDC staff from planting any agriculture crops in wetland pools at the area, said Chris Freeman, MDC wildlife management biologist. Some wetland pools on the area’s east side have limited natural cover due to high water for extended periods. Other pools with good plant growth will likely have no managed openings in the cover. Both conditions may make hunting challenging and reduce opportunities at Grand Pass. The west side pools do have good moist soil plant production. According to Missouri River level predictions by the U.S. Army Corps of
Some wetland pools at MDC conservation areas will be normal this fall, while habitat or access may be affected at others due to flooding or high water. Photo by MDC Staff, courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation. Engineers, there is a possibility that major highway access to Grand Pass Conservation Area may be closed at times. Some levees were damaged by earlier high water. Large rainfall and flooding
events this fall could increase the chances for breaches in levees. High water may prompt portions of the area to be closed to ensure user safety.
7 Things You May Not Know About Your Child’s Safety In Cars (BPT)
Parents and caregivers want to keep kids safe in the car but keeping up with the latest recommendations can be tricky, especially as your child grows and their needs change. It's sometimes hard to know if you're doing everything you can to keep children as safe as possible. Regardless of your child's age and how often they ride with you in the car, you'll want to follow these guidelines to help you find the right seat. 1. Under 13? Don't let them sit up front Whatever a child's height or weight, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises that children under 13 should never sit in the front seat, even for a short trip. Car safety standards and features like airbags are developed and tested for adult bodies, not the growing body of a child. Air bags can be inflated at speeds of 200-400 mph, which could seriously harm a child if deployed. Most car crashes impact the front of the car, so keeping kids in the back seat can help protect them from injury. 2. Tethers add extra protection Most forward-facing car seats have tethers to secure them to the vehicle, in addition to using the vehicle's seat belt or lower anchors. Tethers help keep car seats from pitching forward in a crash, reducing injury to the child's head and neck. You can find the tether at the top of convertible, combination and all-in-one
car seats. They're adjustable straps that have a hook that connects to your vehicle's tether anchors. Review your car seat's instructions and vehicle's owner manual to identify the correct tether location in your vehicle.
3. Don't move kids on too soon The best protection for a child in a car is the car seat that's right for their age and size. According to the most recent NHTSA data, nearly 1 in 10 children between 1 and 3 years old were moved on to booster seats too early. And roughly 1 in 5 children aged 4 to 7 were prematurely moved to just using a seat belt when they should have still been riding in booster seats. Booster seats help a child's seat belt fit appropriately, which means crossing the center of their chest and not touching their neck.
show you how to correctly install it and make sure your child is properly secured. Find a car seat inspection station near you at NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat.
6. Tweens should always be buckled According to a 2005 report by the NHTSA, most accidents in urban areas happen under 30 mph. Be consistent and stay firm if your tween or teen resists wearing seat belts. Set safe habits for life, help keep your child safe and obey the law by making sure your child is buckled up every time for every ride, no matter how few miles or how slowly you're driving. 7. Car seats have expiration dates Car seats expire, because technology improves, and safety standards change. If you buy a used car seat or receive one as a hand-me-down, check it carefully and
4. Check car seat recommendations online Tools and resources are available to help make it easier to check that your child is in the right seat for their age, height and weight. Visit NHTSA.gov/ TheRightSeat to compare car seats and get helpful installation instructions. 5. Free car seat checks are available Whether you've just installed a new car seat or just want a "checkup" for a seat your child's been using for a while, you can get help at a car seat inspection station near you. Certified technicians will inspect your car seat free of charge and
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Photo credit: BPT make sure you know the history and whether or not it has been involved in a crash. Most car seats have an expiration date stamped on the manufacturer's label on the side or base. Visit NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat for more information and to search for a car seat inspection station or event near you.
Page 9
General Vehicle Maintenance by Sam Luttrell, Absolute Automotive LLC
How often should I change the oil & filter, or all the other fluids in my vehicle? What about rotating the tires, replacing spark plugs, and drive belts? All vehicles have different maintenance schedules and, the easiest answer I can give you is, ALL of this information is located in your Owners Manual. Please read it; not only will you find the answers you are looking for, you will probably discover that your vehicle has many more features and capabilities than you knew it had. Lost your manual? Most if not all Owners Manuals can be found online with a simple Google search. That said, there are some generic maintenance guidelines you can follow. Oil & Filter: A majority of newer vehicles have built in programs that compute your driving habits and calculate when your next oil change is due. A general rule to follow if your vehicle is not equipped with this feature is to change oil & filter every 5000 miles for full synthetic oil, and 3000 miles if you are using conventional oil. Antifreeze: Antifreeze comes in a multitude of colors. Pink, yellow, orange,
purple, & so on & on. Have it tested every fall for “Freeze Point”, and signs of rust or corrosion in the cooling system. Flush every 75,000 miles. Transmission Fluid: There is a huge variance in manufacture recommendations for transmission fluid; some vehicles no longer have a dipstick at all, and that the transmission fluid is “Good to Go” for the life of the vehicle. If you have a dipstick, flush the transmission fluid if it starts to discolor from bright pink, or every 75,000 miles. Brake Fluid: Brake fluid should be clear in color. Brake fluid will absorb moisture over time, and turn dark or black color when this occurs, and it should be flushed out with new fluid. The moisture can cause premature rust & corrosion leading to brake failure. Power Steering Fluid: Late model vehicles today have an “Electric Power Steering Module” that provide power assist, no fluid, and do not require any maintenance. Older vehicles that use power steering fluid, have either bright pink or clear fluid. If it has turned dark, it should be flushed. Metallic, glittery looking fluid is a
sign of pump and/or steering gear damage and will need repair of the power steering system. Tire Rotation: The old “rule of thumb” was to rotate tires every other oil change, but today's vehicles go more miles between oil changes than ever before. Major tire manufactures recommend every 6000 miles, so you may need a tire rotation at every oil change, if you want the maximum longevity out of your tires. Spark Plugs: Spark plugs are made from different materials depending on the vehicle manufacturer's specification & design. Platinum, iridium, double platinum, copper core, steel & so on. The platinum, iridium plugs are designed to go 100,000 miles. The issue with waiting that long to change them is the spark plug threads can “seize” in the cylinder head of the engine. I recommend changing those types of spark plugs every 75,000 miles. Older style spark plugs, steel or copper
Photo credit: iStock photo
core should be change every 25,000 to 30,000 miles. Drive Belts: Serpentine drive belts last much, much longer than the older “V” belts of the past. Signs of wear that require the serpentine belt be replaced are fraying, cracking, glazing & squealing. 75,000 to 100,000 miles is a reasonable amount of miles to expect from a serpentine belt.
Sam Luttrell of Absolute Automotive LLC can be reached at 816-820-8956, sam@absoluteautomotive.net, or visit https://absoluteautomotive.net/.
THEME: AUTHORS' LAST NAMES ACROSS 1. Relating to blood 6. Yard patch 9. Mrs. in Köln 13. Swelling of human organs 14. Grazing field 15. Not jocks 16. Take puppy from a pound 17. ____ De Triomphe 18. Blast from the past 19. *Joanne "Kathleen" 21. *Susan Eloise 23. Big head 24. Pre-hurricane wind 25. Her special day was May 12, 2019 28. Kent State state 30. Genuflect in submission 35. Afghanistan's neighbor 37. Wood sorrels 39. Mr. Ed's remark 40. Kudrow or Presley 41. *Herbert George 43. Kosher establishment 44. Approaches 46. Eating protocol 47. Edible fat 48. Provoke 50. Water carrier 52. Prior to, prefix 53. Comes before riches 55. Homer Simpson's neighbor 57. *James Matthew 60. *Sidonie-Gabrielle 64. Mood disorder 65. Koko the gorilla, e.g. 67. More unfriendly 68. Marcia, Jan, Greg, Peter, Cindy, Bobby, e.g. 69. Singer-songwriter Stewart 70. "Peter, Peter Pumpkin ____" 71. Wet nurse
72. Get the picture 73. Dentist's request DOWN 1. "____ no evil..." 2. Cocoyam 3. Garfield's cry 4. Like horn of plenty 5. Saddle-tightening strap 6. Smelting waste 7. "____ the ramparts..." 8. Putin's R&R spot 9. Hat material 10. Make over 11. Similar 12. "____ it or lose it!" 15. Continued 20. "No way" partner 22. Type or kind 24. Puck-catchers 25. *Alan Alexander 26. Architectural projection 27. Kenyan warrior 29. Coffee choice 31. What one does at the altar 32. Secure with ropes 33. Spectator 34. *Elwyn Brooks 36. Narcotics agent, for short 38. A whole bunch 42. Dictation taker 45. Sir, in Shakespeare's play 49. Mai ____ 51. FEMA help 54. Spirograph pieces 56. Kind of sticker 57. *Lyman Frank
58. Tolstoy's Karenina 59. *Poet Adrienne or essayist Frank 60. Surrender land 61. Mambo king Puente 62. Casual summer wear 63. Blunders 64. Sloan or Wharton degree 66. *Edgar Allan
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Sports
Page 10
Early Offense And Solid Pitching Lift Eagles Over Bulldogs by John Unrein
The Grain Valley Eagles Softball team put together timely early hitting and outstanding pitching to dispatch the visiting Kearney Bulldogs by a score of 31 on Monday, September 16th. Leading the Eagles charge to victory were Senior Infielder Morgan Robinson and Freshman Pitcher Hailey Hemme. Eagles Head Coach Garrett Ogle was pleased with his team’s victory. “Kearney’s pitcher caught us a little off guard in what she was throwing. It was nice to see us make some adjustments at the plate and get some hits. It permitted us to put some runs up early,” Ogle said. Grain Valley scored all three of their runs during the first two innings. The biggest hit of the game came from Robinson in the bottom of the first inning with two runners on base. She made solid contact with the softball that garnered a two RBI single and gave her team a lead that they would not relinquish. “I have been working on my hitting. I tried to get my hands to the ball by keeping the bat flat in the zone and it paid off,” Robinson said. “Getting a win with my team makes what we do a lot more fun.” Hemme equaled Robinson’s hitting
with her pitching. She only allowed one earned run, two hits, and one walk across seven innings while striking out eleven Bulldogs. Hemme did not waiver in her approach as she had great tempo in being quick in between pitches in allowing her defense to stay on her their toes. That would be important as the heat of the afternoon set in with temperature in the 90’s and a heat index approaching 100 degrees. Hemme displayed confidence in her stuff as she was not shy about pitching to contact. Furthermore, Hemme was as quick and confident with her post game comments as she was with her pitches. “My key was to put the ball in the strike zone today knowing that my teammates would do a solid job fielding. I felt good on the mound because I knew my team would have my back hitting,” Hemme said. Ogle couldn’t help but smile when sharing his thoughts on the individual effort displayed by Hemme. “Hailey was outstanding. She was in the strike zone all day long except when she didn’t want to be and that was intentional. Her control was pinpoint and kept their hitters off balance,” Ogle said. “The one extra base hit she gave up didn’t hurt us. It was nice to see her
Freshman Pitcher Hailey Hemme delivers the softball to home plate. Photo credit: Valley News staff throw like that today.” The Eagles faced another tough stretch of games moving past the win against Kearney. This week they will have faced Winnetonka, Grandview, and Raytown South. Ogle believes the keys to continued
Senior Morgan Robinson connects with the softball for a line drive single. Photo credit: Valley News staff success for the Eagles will be to avoid being comfortable or becoming lackadaisical. “Focusing on our goals and fundamentals will allow us to win the remaining weeks and hopefully rack up some conference wins.”
Lady Eagles Tennis Continues Strong Start To The Season by John Unrein One by one, Lady Eagles Senior Tennis
Mackensie Wagner has gone from our
banners on their home court. Smiles
that’s a big jump. She’s just a backboard.
players lined up in front of their picture more than nerves were on display as they prepared to host the visiting Platte County Pirates in an important Suburban Conference
matchup
on
number six to our number three and That ball’s coming back and I don’t think she’s that fun to play against.” Draper
also
mentioned
Seniors
Tuesday,
Maddie Shields, Alice Lin, and Hailey
their match 8-1 and moved to an overall
the top five spots in the match lineup
September 17th. The Eagles would win
record of 4-1 on the season.
Lady Eagles Head Tennis Coach Randy
Bowlin as players who have rounded out throughout the season.
“We have several girls who have
Draper was quick to applaud the depth in
worked at this due to their love for the
played in the team’s overall early season
ways with you being by yourself when
the senior class and the crucial role it has success.
“That’s a deep group of seniors. We’ve
also got a sophomore in Chelsea Gorden that’s really helping us. Those seniors have been through it and know how to win,” Draper said.
“Winning at the one and two spots is
hard to do especially. Seniors Alyssa
Owens and Ryan Deaton are good
sport. Tennis is a lonely game in a lot of
you’re in single play. Sometimes we have to remember that tennis is a game and
games are supposed to be fun. We enjoy
laughing together because that makes everything,
including
enjoyable,” Draper said.
practice
The girls’ varsity team will next compete at the Blue Springs Tournament on Friday, September 20th.
players and make an excellent doubles team. They’ve also spent a lot of time at this,
it’s never
an
accident.
more
Senior
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Senior team members of the Lady Eagles Tennis Team pose in front of their senior banners before facing the Platte County Pirates on September 17th. The team won 8--1 and moved to an overall record of 4 4--1 on the season. the match 8 Photo credit: Valley News staff
www.grainvalleynews.com.
Sports
Page 11
Eagles Come Up Short Against Warriors by John Unrein
The Grain Valley Eagles could not hold the early lead they jumped out to against the visiting Smithville Warriors on Friday, September 13th. The Warriors would pull away in the fourth quarter to secure the win by a score of 40-29. Head Football Coach David Allie praised his team’s resiliency and their determination to stay in the game along with citing opportunities for improvement. “Our kids care a tremendous amount. They were still trying to score with one second left in the game. What the game boiled down to tonight is that Smithville had the ball too long and we didn’t hold on to the football well enough. We also could’ve tackled better,” Allie said. “I would be concerned to look at their time of possession with us not able to get our defense off the field. When we did score it was great in that we had some big plays. We need to improve our ball security though on offense and tackle better on defense.” The Eagles jumped on the board early with some trickery. Junior Wide Receiver Parker Bosserman went in motion behind the running back to secure the pitch from Junior Quarterback Cole Keller prior to launching a pass down the seam. The play caught the Warriors off guard as Sophomore Wide Receiver Logan Pratt was able to garner separation from the defensive backfield prior to catching Bosserman’s pass for a 38-yard touchdown reception. The following extra point attempt was good by Senior Kicker Jack Knust and the Eagles went up 7-0 with 9:42 left in the first quarter. The two teams would trade jabs, punts, and field position prior the Warriors tying the game 7-7 on Senior Running Back Isaac Miller’s 8-yard touchdown run with 1:21 left in the first quarter. Miller and his brother, Senior Quarterback Spencer Miller were a tough duo to contain for the Eagles Defense. Together they would account for all five Warrior touchdowns on the ground or thrown through the air. The Eagles countered offensively with solid contributions from Keller and Senior Gavin Oyler who opened the game at
Running Back. Oyler would rack up a touchdown on the ground along with 115 yards on 8 carries. His touchdown would come on an 80-yard gallop with 3:34 left in the second quarter, pulling the Eagles even with the Warriors at 14-14. Keller shook off an early first quarter interception to come back and have a solid second half throwing the football. The signal caller would heave four second half passes for over 30 yards in route to going 17 of 23 for 238 yards passing and two touchdowns through the air. “That was not the first half we wanted. A lot of that was on me. Coming out in the second half I knew we were only down three points and were not out of the game,” Keller said. “We did everything we could to put the ball in end zone. Our defense has played two incredible games prior to this one. Tonight, I was hoping that we could pick them up and do something for them. We fell short and all we can do is be determined to get better from here.” On the receiving end of Keller’s touchdown passes were Pratt and Junior Running Back Hunter Newsom. Pratt’s snag brought the Eagles within three points at 22-25 with 4:15 left in the third quarter. Newsom’s contribution came on a nifty screen pass in which his offensive line secured the blocks needed to spring him for 33 yards to pay dirt down the middle of the field. His score with 5:47 left in the 4th quarter would be the last of the night for the Eagles. The Eagles move to a record of 2-1 on the season. They will travel north to face the Platte County Pirates, who also have a record of 2-1, on Friday, September 20th. Last year’s loss to the Pirates at home by the Eagles was one of their more physical matchups of the season. Allie knows the challenge that lies ahead for his team. “It will be our first trip to Platte County since joining the Suburban Conference. We got in our way tonight and we must solidify some things. The Pirates, like us, have great fans who like watching football in their own confines,” Allie said.
Junior Quarterback Cole Keller delivers a pass during Friday night’ night’s game against the Smithville Warriors. Photo credit: John Overstreet
Junior Running Back Hunter Newsom crosses the goal line after catching a screen pass. Photo credit: John Overstreet
Community Calendar Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Music with Mar Faith United Methodist Church, 1950 SW Eagles Parkway 10:00am—11:00am Brain based music and movement class for birth—5 years of age. $5/family Register: 816-847-0008.
Saturday, September 21, 2019
Handgun: Handgun Basics Lake City Shooting Range 8:00am to 11:30am Instructors will provide information on the different types of firearms, ammunition, marksmanship skills and care and cleaning, plus much more. Register online: https://mdc.mo.gov/ events
Senior Yoga Weekly on Mondays Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S Main 10:30am—11:15am $2 or Free for SilverSneakers, Silver & Fit, and Renew Active Members Board of Aldermen Meeting Grain Valley City Hall, 711 S. Main 7:00pm
Wednesday, September 25, 2019
KidzConnection Faith United Methodist Church, 1950 SW Eagles Parkway 6:00pm—8:00pm K-5th grade. Dinner, games, campfire Bible stories and more. Register: 816-847-0008.
Trivia Night hosted by FOCUS for Grain Valley Saturday, September 21, 2019 Grain Valley High School Commons Doors open at 6:00pm; Starts at 6:30pm $100 per team/table Register by calling Jan Reding, 816-2250713 or email janreding@earthlink.net.
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Grain Valley City Hall, 711 S Main 6:30pm
Monday, September 23, 2019
Senior Coffee Weekly on Mondays Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S Main 9:00am—11:00am Free.
Senior Coffee Weekly on Mondays Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S Main 9:00am—11:00am Free.
Monday, September 30, 2019 No school—Grain Valley Schools
G R A I N VA L L E Y N E W S LOCALLY FOCUSED. FAMILY OWNED. PUBLISHED WEEKLY.
Tuesday, October 1, 2019
Faith’ Faith’s Play Group Faith United Methodist Church, 1950 SW Eagles Parkway 1st Tuesday of the month Faith UMC and Grain Valley Schools offers a free play group for children birth—5 years old. Free play, story time, snacks, and more. Entrance at rear of church.
Wednesday, October 2, 2019
Senior Citizen Luncheon Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S. Main 11:30am—1:00pm $3 suggested donation. Call 816-847-6293 or email info@cityofgrainvalley.org to register.
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Saturday, October 5, 2019
Household Hazardous Waste Mobile Collection Jackson County Public Works Facility, 34900 E. Old US Highway 40 8:00am—Noon ID and proof of residency required.
Tuesday, October 8, 2019
Artbots Mid-Continent Public Library Grain Valley Branch 6:00pm Register at www.mymcpl.org/events Add your community event at www.grainvalleynews.com.
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Contact Cory Unrein, 816816-809809-7984 or news@grainvalleynews.com.