Valley News: March 5, 2020 by grainvalleynews

Valley News

MARCH 5, 2020

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City Debuts Community Campus Renderings In Preparation For April Vote City staff shared additional renderings of the proposed Community Campus at the former Sni-A-Bar Farm site during the Grain Valley Partnership’s monthly luncheon on March 3rd. Voters will have a final opportunity to view renderings, speak to City staff and design team representatives, and submit questions via mobile devices during a Community Campus meeting to be held March 12th from 6:00pm—8:00pm at Stony Point Elementary, 1001 E. Ryan Road. Residents will vote on April 7th for a no tax increase general obligation bond to fund the project. The last time voters

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Mock Trial Team Heads To State

were asked by the City to issue bonds was April 2011. Plans for the site include a new civic facility which will house the City Hall, police department and municipal court. The facility will also include common space and community meeting spaces. The approximate square footage of the civic offices is 31,000 square feet. The size of the current City Hall, Police Department, and Municipal Court is a combined 16,000 square feet. Additionally, the proposed campus includes a new community center to include an indoor pool. The proposed center will be approximately 45,000 square feet.

see CAMPUS on page 2

The Grain Valley High School Mock Trial team recently earned a spot in the Missouri High School Mock Trial Competition to be held in St. Louis on March 3rd Valley’’s 4th year participating in the Missouri High School and 5th. This is Grain Valley Mock Trial Competition and the team has qualified for the state competition all 4 years. Last year, the team advanced to Quarterfinals (there are 16 teams at State) for the first time. Front row left to right: Hannah Lytle, Mia Powell, Tori Seever, Jenna Wheat, Gabby Holman, Molly Wright Back row left to right: Sage Savala, Alex Kroenke, Brayden Stolle, Carmen Myers, Paul Wheaton, Gracie Havard, Keely Crichton Not Pictured: Aidan Kroenke

City staff unveiled additional renderings of the proposed Community Campus Partnership’’s March 3rd luncheon. A community meeting is during the Grain Valley Partnership scheduled for March 12th at Stony Point Elementary School. Photo credit: City of Grain Valley

“This group has done a tremendous job this year of putting in a high level of work and bringing the younger kids along to a high level with them. II’’m very proud of this group, and of the work all of them and our Attorney Coach Matthew Lytle State,”” have done this year and we hope that it will result in a great result at State, Mock Trial Coach Brian Winckler said. Image credit: Brian Winckler

Page 2 CAMPUS continued from page 1 Plans also outline areas for a play structure, splash pad, and some degree of trail completion at the site. Voters will head to the polls Tuesday, April 7th to vote on two separate questions. The bond issue will need Super Majority approval. Cities may only issue general obligation bonds after obtaining approval of four-sevenths (57.! %) of the qualified voters of the municipality voting on the question. Ballot language will ask the following of voters: Question 1: Shall the City of Grain Valley, Missouri, issue its general obligation bonds in the amount of $23,500,000 for the acquisition of land, the site development and the construction, furnishing and equipping of a new municipal complex to include buildings for a city hall, a police facility, a municipal court and a community center? Question 2: Shall the City of Grain Valley, Missouri, issue its general obligation bonds in the amount of $15,300,000 to acquire rights of way, and to construct, extend and improve public infrastructure (including without limitation streets, electric service, water service, and sewer service) to serve a new municipal complex in the City and neighboring land? Additional information on the proposed project can be found at www.envisiongrainvalley.com.

A rendering of the layout of the proposed Community Campus to be located on the former SniSni-A-Bar Farm site. Photo credit: City of Grain Valley

At GrainValleyNews.com: Area Preps For Coronavirus Visit www.grainvalleynews.com for

an article on how local officials, schools, and emergency services are preparing

for a potential coronavirus outbreak in our area.

Officers Respond To Shots Fired In Rosewood Hills Grain Valley Police responded to a call of shots fired in the Rosewood Hills subdivision shortly after midnight on February 29th. According to Grain Valley Police Chief James Beale, a vehicle occupied by five teens drove in the area of Elmwood Drive and Dogwood Drive. The vehicle stopped and a subject

exited the vehicle, shooting off several rounds in the air. The subject got back into the vehicle and the vehicle drove off. Officers stopped the vehicle and the subjects were taken into custody and issued bonds. No injuries or property damage were reported.

A birds eye view rendering of the proposed Community Campus. Residents will have an opportunity to view renderings, submit questions on mobile devices, and visit with City staff and design team members during a March 12th Community Campus meeting at Stony Point Elementary. Photo credit: City of Grain Valley

Valley News

Grain Valley News is a free community paper, published weekly on Thursdays online at www.grainvalleynews.com and on the 1st and 3rd weeks of the month in print. Cory Unrein | Co-Owner/Publisher John Unrein | Co-Owner/Production Manager Cathy Allie | Staff Writer, Proofreader Diana Luppens, Switch Focus Studios | Contributing Photographer John Overstreet | Contributing Photographer

Mail: PO Box 2972 Grain Valley MO 64029 Phone: 816.809.7984 Email: news@grainvalleynews.com

Business News

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Keep Your Tech Devices Clean To Protect Your Health by Burton Kelso, The Technology Expert

We are in the midst of flu season and the public is also concerned about the threat of the coronavirus. Public health experts recommend you stick the basic steps to avoid this virus such as washing your hands, getting a flu shot, and disinfecting surfaces you touch on a regular basis. One of the most overlooked items to clean if your technology, especially smartphones. Smartphones are among the dirtiest items that you own. What's worse is our phones are often held up to our eyes, nose, and lips which are key places where the coronavirus infects your body. Want to decrease your chances of getting sick? Follow these simple steps to keep your phone and other gadgets clean. The most common way that the coronavirus is spread is from person- to - person contact, as well as from dirty hands that come in contact with your face, eyes, nose, and mouth. These areas are points of entry for the flu virus. Did you know the average person touches their face up to 16 times per hour? Even more disturbing is that if you don't clean your smartphone, computer or laptop keyboard on a regular basis, it can contain more germs

than a toilet? Now you can see the concern. Here's what you can do: Use cleaning products designed for technology. You don't want to use harsh cleaning chemicals on your devices, including water. Remember these are delicate gadgets. While it's tempting to use antibacterial wipes or sprays on your computers, keyboard, and smart devices, you want to avoid them. The abrasive chemicals and can leave scratches on your screens and can wear down the protective coating on your devices. My suggestion is to use Pure and Clean surface cleaner (www.pureandclean.us) This eco-friendly cleaning solution is safe to use on all your tech devices without exposing yourself and your devices to the harsh chemicals that are in other cleaning products and while it'. When wiping down the surface of your keyboard, smartphone or tablet, always use a microfiber cloth. Never use paper towels or other standard cleaning cloths. Get Some Tech that Will Clean Your Tech. If you want a high tech solution for sanitizing your phone, consider the PhoneSoap (www.phonesoap.com). This device will make your smartphone, small laptops and tablets germ-free and

charge them all at the same time. It might be a little pricey, but PhoneSoap will also clean things such as keys, credit cards, and watches. Get a Cover that Will Minimize Germs on your gadgets. Use a surface cover or case for your smartphone, laptop or tablet that has antimicrobial protection. One of the best products you can get is from Tech 21 (https://www.tech21.com/en_us/ collections/antimicrobial). These products promise to offer up 99.9% protection from the microbes on the surface of your device. You also get bonus protection from the case that will protect your gadgets from drops or falls. Additional tips: Do not share smartphones with others. If you do, wash your hands before handling your device or use a hand sanitizer to kill germs. Keep your smartphone out of the hands of your children. You take the risk of infecting your child and they can be a major factor for spreading the flu to you. Consider using your phone 'handsfree' or use earbuds for phone conversations. We can't put a ban on our computers, smartphones, and tablets, even if they can be a breeding ground

for viruses like the coronavirus. It's time all of us take time to clean our devices more often, not just when there an epidemic illness. Like you should with your hands and body, take steps to clean your tech on a regular basis. 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 our 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.

Eason Joins Truman Heartland Community Foundation As Vice President of Advancement Truman Heartland Community Foundation is pleased to welcome Cole Eason as Vice President of Advancement. In this role, Eason will work with current and prospective donors to encourage a partnership with Truman Heartland for their charitable giving. He will also work closely with financial, legal and tax advisors who assist clients with their estate planning and philanthropic giving through the Community Foundation. Eason is an experienced estate planner and fundraising professional. For the past five years he has worked in university advancement with a primary responsibility for major gift and planned gift programs, first with Rockhurst University then at Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. “It’s exciting to witness the positive impact of philanthropy in the lives of individuals,” said Eason. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Truman Heartland team and look forward to advocating for donors and nonprofits in Eastern Jackson County and the surrounding communities.” Eason grew up in the Hickman-Mills school district and attended college in Kansas City. A graduate of the University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Law, he began his career as an attorney and

Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF) serves the region with assets of more than $54 million and annual grants surpassing $4.8 million. THCF serves individuals who, through their private giving, wish to support the public good and helps them do it in the most tax-wise and effective manner. Through the Community Foundation, donors can set up their own donor advised funds, scholarship funds, field of interest funds, endowment funds, charitable gift annuities and many other charitable vehicles, which Cole Eason has joined the Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF) as Vice President of Advancement. Photo credit: THCF has served as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for Jackson County. “Cole has a unique skill set with both legal expertise and fundraising abilities that will be a great asset to our donors and our work in the community.” said Phil Hanson, Truman Heartland Community Foundation President and CEO. “His experience as an estate lawyer will be a huge advantage as we work with donors to help them maximize the impact of their charitable giving.”

utilize shared resources of the Foundation to maximize the impact of their philanthropic dollars. In addition to donor services, the Community Foundation provides asset development for nonprofit organizations, awards grants to nonprofits, assists organizations in planned giving and serves as a leader in addressing community issues. For more information on charitable giving, visit www.thcf.org or call 816-836-8189.

Business News

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Eagles Academy Offers New Preschool Option in Grain Valley Choosing the right childcare option for parents can be stressful for a variety of reasons. Will it be a reasonable distance from where parents work so that they can pick up and drop off their child based on the hours of the provider? How qualified and trained are the owner and staff members that operate the facility? Is the environment where my child will be spending a lot of time safe and enriching? Kids Life online publication explains recent research shows that the time between 0-5 years of age is the most sensitive time for brain development. More than 90 percent of brain growth occurs during this time. This is why childcare is so important. The people who care for a child during this time will have a huge impact on the growth and development of a child’s brain. Kids Life also cites another reason why childcare is so important is that studies show children who receive quality childcare enter school better prepared. At first researchers didn’t understand why. Quality childcare has been shown to give a child better math, spelling, and reading skills upon entry into school. Hunter Johnston, the proud owner of Eagle Academy has been involved with childcare since she was a student at Blue Springs South High School and was a part of Jaguar Preschool. Her love for children pushed her to become an afternoon teacher at a daycare for two years prior to deciding to seek a degree in Childhood and Family Development from the University of Central Missouri. Upon graduation from UCM, Johnston successfully completed an internship for ten weeks as an assistant director at a daycare prior to becoming a full time daycare assistant director for two years. Johnston has continued being a lifelong

(Left) Eagles Academy is located at 1438 S. Minter Way in Grain Valley and is owned by Hunter Johnson. (Right) Johnson is pictured with daughter Brooklyn. Eagles Academy and the Grain Valley Partnership will host a ribbon cutting and open house 5:00pm— 7:00pm. on Thursday, March 12th from 5:00pm —7:00 pm. Photo credit: Valley News staff learner by earning a master’s degree in Child and Adolescent Psychology. Johnston then ran a home daycare until the current building where Eagle Academy resides at 1438 S. Minter Way in Grain Valley became available. The rest as they say is history. The Grain Valley resident and mother of three believes her experience in her profession allows her to be personable with parents. Furthermore, Johnston perceives she has a strong sense of how things should be run without having to question herself due to things now being second nature to her when it comes to young children. “We are an early foundations preschool that is a home away from

Business News is sponsored weekly by the whose mission is to be a leader in the growth of Grain Valley. The Grain Valley Partnership is located at and can be reached by phone, 816-443-5162 or via email at info@growgrainvalley.org.

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home. We want people to feel comfortable and safe with us,” Johnston said. “I have always loved the small town feel of Grain Valley. I get to know my parents and my children go the preschool as well. That will allow a group of young people to grow up together prior to heading off to school.” Johnston has been impressed with the support she has received from the Grain Valley Partnership during the month she has been a member. “Tasha (Lindsey) has organized a ribbon cutting ceremony for us and has been good about helping me network with people. My business is going to grow by word of mouth. It’s not like Wal-

Mart where if you need toothpaste, that’s where you go,” Johnston said. “Empathy is a strength of mine that I want to share as a daycare owner. Mom’s can get stressed out and tired. I believe I understand that because I’m a working mother myself.” Eagle Academy’s ribbon cutting, and open house will be held on Thursday, March 12th from 5:00-7:00pm. Johnston will be offering tours and answering questions from community members. There will also be a raffle at the event for a free enrollment fee for any family that enrolls.

Community Voices

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Wayne’s World It’s A Dead Issue by Wayne Geiger

I don’t like walking through flower shops. In fact, I’m not a huge fan of flowers in general. It’s not that I don’t find them beautiful. I do. It’s just that flowers don’t mean to me what they mean to others. It’s not that I had an unfortunate meeting with a Venus Flytrap. It’s a little deeper. I don’t like the smell. Researchers tell us that out of our five senses, our sense of smell is the one most connected to our memories. As a pastor for a number of years, I have been acquainted with many funerals and memorial services. When I smell the flowers, I am transported back to hurting and grieving families. It’s my calling to assist those who are grieving. And, over the last 25 years, I’ve learned some important truths about funerals. “You can ride up front,” the funeral director said. As a young pastor I was mortified when it was suggested that I ride in the hearse. “Seriously!” I thought, “This is the vehicle designed to carry the body of the deceased person and their casket to the cemetery!” It just seemed a little “weird” and I had flashbacks of the 1979 movie, Phantasm, that scared me as a kid. However, I was told it was proper etiquette and, if nothing else, I could keep the driver company. He had no one else to talk to. Taphophobia is the fear of being buried alive. With our modern technology, this is not really an issue, but in the mid-1800s it was. There were tales of people buried alive and even the production of a coffin that came complete with a string connected to a bell that the supposed deceased could ring should they be truly alive. Our modern practices eliminate this need. But, to be honest, riding in the hearse, I was a little uneasy and I did listen for strange noises behind me. The hearse is not the first car in the procession. It is generally the second. The first car is called the “lead car.” The lead car will often be a black sedan or

SUV sometimes with flags or some way to indicate that it is the lead car in a funeral procession. The second car is the hearse. The third vehicle is often a black limousine that is used to transport the close family of the deceased. Then, comes all the other vehicles, followed by one final vehicle to indicate the end of the procession. The length of funeral processions vary, of course, by the number of people who will attend the funeral and then choose to go to the burial. It’s customary for everyone in the funeral procession to turn on their headlights and flashers. Also, expect to do about 10 mph under the speed limit. The procession is a way of letting everyone else know that this is a group of family and friends who are in mourning and deserve respect from their fellow man. Generally, the funeral procession will be aided by local police and/or an escort from a professional transport service. Out of respect, funeral processions are given the “right of way.” Their goal is to keep everyone together in an unbroken line all the way to the cemetery. If possible, they try not to stop at red lights or stop signs. Other vehicles are expected to yield to the procession. This is not a time for onlookers to be impatient or disrespectful. To aid the procession, escort vehicles will block traffic. Even if your light is green, you are expected to wait and you should never blow your horn. On smaller, two lane roads, oncoming vehicles will sometimes pull over to the shoulder and wait for the entire procession to pass. This is a sign of respect. Some passengers may even nod as a sign of solidarity as if to say, “Our family has been there too.” Funeral processions can be very dangerous. “A guy was killed a couple of weeks ago,” the driver of a hearse told me recently. He continued, “As much as I appreciate what they do, I wouldn’t want their job.” Listening behind me, I thought

to myself, “I wouldn’t want yours either.” He went on to tell me how an escort motorcycle driver attempted to block an intersection for the procession, but someone did not see the procession—or him--and struck and killed him. I couldn’t help but think of the unbelievable irony. In the last several decades, there have been an alarming number of fatalities involving police vehicles in funeral processions. The trend has led to some drastic changes in protocol and using private escort services. Part of the problem, I believe, is just a lack of knowledge of funeral procession etiquette. Most people just don’t know what is expected. The other part of the problem, perhaps, is that we have become a very selfish society. It’s not that people don’t know, but could it be that, perhaps, that they don’t care? “Some time ago we had a lady that kept passing cars in the procession,” the hearse driver complained, “She made it all the way up to the hearse, but the escort service wouldn’t let her pass,” he said chuckling as to suggest poetic justice. I could picture the scene in my mind of her weaving in and out the mourners attempting to pass the entire processional one car at time. “She wasn’t too happy when she was forced to go all the way to the cemetery,” he concluded. But then again, no one is really happy at the cemetery. Once at the cemetery, you’ll probably see a tent that is set up. This indicates the location of the resting spot of the deceased. You’ll be expected to walk through the cemetery, at least a short way, to get to this cite. There will likely not be a path or stones to walk on. In our culture, it’s generally frowned upon to walk directly on top of a grave. But, sometimes, it’s hard to avoid. Following the funeral director is the safest bet. Walking behind the headstones is the second safest. Either way, the cemetery is meant to be a place of honor and respect. I didn’t really know it until researching for this article, but there is no law that requires a casket for burial (although some cemeteries do have rules). In fact, you could get a casket from Amazon if you wanted. Transporting it may be a little difficult, but if you rent a hearse, I could ride shotgun. You could even build your own casket. There are no laws against that.

Your neighbors may be a little uneasy and look at you funny, but hey, they walk their dog in your yard. By the way, burial on private property is an option in Missouri. There are guidelines and the land must be deeded in trust to the county commission. You must file the deed with the county clerk within 60 days (Missouri Revised Statutes 214.090). You’ll also want to check with the county registrar for additional zoning laws. Finally, you’ll probably want to watch Poltergeist or some other creepy movie. Just know, it never ends well. Burial in a cemetery is probably the best bet. Once the hearse arrives, the departed is carried out of the hearse and the casket is loaded onto what’s called a casket lowering device. After the service is concluded, the funeral director will say something like, “This concludes our graveside service, please feel free to take a flower from the casket and please be careful when departing to your vehicle.” Only after everyone leaves will they lower the body into the grave. They won’t let you watch. The body does not go straight into the ground. It is put into what’s called a burial container that is often made of concrete, metal, or polystyrene. This container protects the coffin from the weight of the earth and helps maintenance crews to take care of the grounds. I’ve learned quite a bit about funerals and funeral etiquette over the years. I know the information contained in this article is a little weird, but I hope that you learned some valuable information. By the way, I don’t plan on buying a burial site. I’m hoping to rent one. Maybe you’ve noticed that people are traditionally buried with their bodies east to west. The headstone will face east and the person’s feet will face east. There is a reason. The tradition for this is that when Jesus comes again the dead in Christ will rise to meet Him (Zech 14:3-4; Matthew 24:27). For me, being buried is a dead issue. I’m just passing through anyway.

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

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Community Voices Community Profile Marcia Napier visiting with Marty so much, we may just make it a regular habit to get a story or two of hers to share. It is our pleasure to introduce those who may not be familiar with Marty Napier.

Editors Note: Valley News readers know Marcia (Marty) Napier from her weekly “Looking Back” columns that highlight the history of Grain Valley. We gave Marty a well deserved week off, deciding that she is an ideal candidate to profile in our Community Profile series. In fact, several residents have recommended we profile Marty, and we certainly agreed with the recommendation. The truth is, it is a daunting task to encapsulate Marty’s contributions and ties to Grain Valley in just a few paragarphs. Since we enjoy

Few people are as familiar with Grain Valley’s history as Marcia (Marty) Napier. As the granddaughter of James Napier, the man who eventually ran Sni-A-Bar Farm after being hired by William Rockhill Nelson as the chief herdsman, Grain Valley’s history is intertwined with her family’s history. Napier’s father, Charlie Napier, also served as chief show herdsman from 1934 to 1942. Napier and her brother Charlie participated in the family business a bit as well, buying and raising cattle through 4-H. The hobby proved fruitful for Napier and her brother. “We would raise cows and then rebred them. And that put my brother and I through college,” Napier said.

“Room and board then was $1,000. Well, I could sell a couple of cows and pay my tuition.” Napier graduated from Grain Valley High School in 1964; her brother Charlie graduated in 1961 and was valedictorian of his class. Napier fondly remembered sitting around with a small group of fellow high school classmates who were qualified through grades to participate in leadership positions such as student council and National Honor Society. “There were only a few of us and several positions to fill, so we all sat around and just kind of said, ‘What do you want to do?’. I ended up as secretary of the Student Council, secretary of National Honor Society, and the editor of the school paper.” After high school, Napier headed to the University of Missouri and studied education. She taught home economics first at Oak Grove and then at Fort Osage until her retirement in 2000. Not long after her retirement, Napier began a second foray into guiding young people as a “house mom” for fraternities. She first served about a year at a college in Florida and then headed to her alma mater Mizzou to serve as the “house mom” for Alpha Gamma Rho. Napier was at Mizzou for 12 years. “As the House Mother, you’re not there to make or enforce rules. You help plan Mom’s Weekend, Dad’s Weekend, Founder’s Day, and other activities. You help plan meals, and I did a lot of that given my background in home economics. But mostly, you’re there to be a mom. I did a lot of hemming pants to help guys prepare for interviews, and always had paper clips and Band-Aids at the ready. I’d keep cookies in the freezer and pop a few in the oven when the guys were up past midnight studying.”

Napier returned home to Grain Valley and pledged to friend Jan Reding that she would get involved in the Historical Society and church activities, and that was it. Anyone who knows Marty knows that promise was not kept. Napier is active in countless organizations around town, and is a regular attendee at high school activities. Napier can be found each Wednesday at the Grain Valley Historical Society, where she has led the effort to catalog and display the Museum’s collections. Napier is an expert on Grain Valley’s history, and many have come to rely on her encyclopedic knowledge to research family history or give historical background to leaders at the City and schools. As the cars zoomed past the front windows of the Grain Valley Historical Society Museum, we asked Napier if she missed the “old” Grain Valley and looked back longingly to when it was smaller and slower paced. “No. I love Grain Valley today. I remember before my father died, someone was saying, ’Isn’t it sad that they’re dividing up Sni-A-Bar?’ But my dad wasn’t sad. He was thrilled to death that they were dividing up the old farm for housing and other developments. He was always for progress, and I guess I’m kind of the same way.” “I love seeing the new high school. Who wouldn’t be proud to say ‘This is our high school.’? It is beautiful. And not only is it a pretty school, but it’s a good school. We need to embrace the changes in Grain Valley and not try to keep things the same.”

Have a nomination for a Community Profile? E-mail news@grainvalleynews.com

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2020 Census

Irish: By The Numbers

Households will begin receiving official Census Bureau mail with detailed information on how to respond to the 2020 Census online, by phone, or email. As the 2020 Census nears, Valley News will take a look at how census figures are used to measure the nation’s people, places, and economy. This week, as we near St. Patrick’s Day, we look at census information related to the Irish in the United States. The U.S. Congress proclaimed March as

Irish-American Heritage Month in 1991, and the president issues a proclamation commemorating the occasion each year. Originally a religious holiday to honor St. Patrick, who introduced Christianity to Ireland in the fifth century, St. Patrick’s Day has evolved into a celebration of all things Irish. The world’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade occurred on March 17, 1762, in New York City, featuring Irish soldiers serving in the English military. This parade became an annual event, with

Play free crossword puzzles online:

www.grainvalleynews.com/online-puzzles This week’s theme: March Madness

President Truman attending in 1948. The following facts are made possible by the invaluable responses to the U.S. Census Bureau’s surveys. Did You Know? 32 Million or 9.9% The number and percentage of US residents who claimed Irish ancestry in 2018.

ACROSS 1. Cutlass or Delta 88, for short 5. Passports and driver's licenses 8. Bit of smoke 12. Narcotics agent, for short 13. Type of coffee maker 14. Sashay 15. Austin Powers' antagonist 16. Creole cuisine staple 17. Designer Calvin 18. *Last year's winning coach 20. Red-encased cheese 21. Prepared 22. Drunkard's sound? 23. Source of white meat 26. They are often grand 30. "Ever" to a poet 31. Mrs. Potts of "Beauty and the Beast" 34. Cough syrup balsam 35. Russians, e.g. 37. A shot could prevent it 38. Up and about 39. Lake ____caca, South America 40. Plant disease 42. *Member of University of Utah team 43. Autumnal zodiac sign 45. Rooster, e.g. 47. Rare find 48. Campus VIPs 50. Razor-____ 52. *Lowest seed 54. In good health 55. 2017 Oscar-winning animated film 56. "____ for thought" 59. Essential oil derived from iris 60. Nasal input 61. Pre-swan state? 62. *NCAA basketball team with most titles 63. *7 seed opponent in round 1 64. Prospector's mother

470,277 The number of people living in Cook County, IL, the county with the largest population of people who claimed Irish ancestry in 2018. 20,590 The estimated number of US residents who spoke Irish Gaelic in 2013.

DOWN 1. *Top seed 2. Abbreviation on a bathroom door 3. Precedes drab 4. Part of an eyeball 5. Vexed 6. Eastwood's _____ Harry 7. Quarrel 8. *Lowest seeded team to win championship 9. Part of ideal 10. Fit for a skinny one 11. Mightier than sword? 13. Give to St. Vinny's 14. Yarn store unit 19. Does like Matryoshka 22. *An airball doesn't do it to either rim or net 23. Outdoes 24. Thing of the past 25. One of the Muses 26. *Final ____ 27. India's sacred flower 28. *Like last eight 29. More sure 32. Like Bob Ross' hair 33. Layer 36. *Cavaliers' state 38. Make amends 40. Slow-witted 41. Demosthenes, e.g. 44. Waits for approval, e.g. 46. Being of service 48. D in LED 49. Former prisoner 50. Rigid necklace 51. Catapult 52. One from Glasgow 53. Canceled 54. Olden-day French coin 57. Goes with borrowed and blue 58. Indigo extract

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Health & Fitness

March Is National Nutrition Month: “Eat Right Bite by Bite” by Tracey Shaffer, RDN, LD

March is designated as National Nutrition Month® by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. It’s a great time of the year to review your eating habits and learn something new about good nutrition. That’s where a registered dietitian can help! It’s common knowledge that a healthy lifestyle decreases many risk factors and just overall makes you feel great. Unfortunately, most people have trouble figuring out what to do without planning a complete diet makeover. During National Nutrition Month®, here are some easy suggestions starting with the basics, so you can start building your nutritional health from the ground up! Vary your diet: Eat a variety of foods every day.

Make sure you include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are the foods that should be eaten most often. For most people, this means more than doubling the amount of fruits and vegetables they eat daily. Try adding a serving each day to one meal and increase the amount every few weeks. Plan your meals: Enjoy healthful eating at school, work and home. Think ahead about what you are going to eat and get it ready. Planning helps save both time and money at the store. Make a list and stick to it! Cook and prep: prep Learn skills to create tasty meals to share and enjoy. If you don’t know how

to cook, look for a class in your community or get a basic cookbook. There are also lots of shows that give cooking instruction. Get your kids cooking so they grow up knowing how to put together a healthy meal. Visit a registered dietitian (RD or RDN): If you are having trouble making nutritious meals a registered dietitian can help you. Registered dietitians have the knowledge and expertise to give you sound nutrition advice. 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.

Pepper Chicken Serves 6

1 3 pound broiler-fryer, cut into 8 pieces, skin and all visible fat removed ¼ cup light soy sauce 3 tbsp. cold water 1 clove garlic, chopped fine 1 8 oz. can sliced water chestnuts, drained ½ med. Red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 med. Green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces] 2 tbsp. cornstarch Place chicken in a nonstick dutch oven or heavy 12-inch skillet. Mix soy sauce with 1 tbsp of the water and pour over chicken. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, uncovered, 40 to 50 minutes. Add garlic, water chestnuts, and red and green pepper. Cover again and simmer 10 minutes longer, until juices from chicken run clear. Remove chicken to serving dish, and keep warm. Blend together cornstarch and remaining 2 tablespoons of water. Stir into juices in dutch oven and heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and boils. Boil and stir 2 minutes. Serve chicken and sauce over cooked brown rice or whole wheat pasta.

Six Sleep Tips To Help Prepare For Daylight Savings Time (BPT) - The fact is, most people don't get enough sleep even during the best of times. Daylight Saving Time is around the corner, and the time difference can pack a surprising punch to your internal clock. It can take up to a week to adjust, which can leave you groggy in the daytime and not ready for bed in the nighttime. While it's great to have more hours of daylight and to enjoy those light-filled evenings, losing one hour can really throw you off your sleep schedule. One thing people have been increasingly turning to is melatonin - a sleep aid that helps you fall asleep and reset your sleep-wake cycle - to help in times like these. Read on for five other things you can do to quickly adjust your and your family's sleep schedule. 1. Wind your body's clock back Go to bed a little earlier every night this week: For example, try 15 minutes earlier on Wednesday, 30 on Thursday, and 45 on Friday, so that by Saturday night you are already going to bed an

hour early, and you're ready to spring forward on Daylight Saving. If your kids or spouse aren't shifting their sleep schedules, you'll have a tough time changing yours. So, get the entire family ready for the time change for their benefit and yours, too. 2. Exercise No matter your age, physical activity has been proven to help you sleep better at night. Exercising in the morning can help reset your body's clock so you're sleepier at bedtime. However, keep in mind that strenuous exercise right before bedtime can make it harder to settle down for a good night's rest. 3. Wind down early When your internal clock is thrown off due to the time change, you need to give yourself more time to slow down and get ready for sleep. Limit mentally stimulating activities late in the evening, like television, video games and playing on your smartphone.

Turn off the gadgets an hour or so before bedtime and pick up a book, destress with soothing music, meditation, a warm bath, or any other activity you find relaxing. This is especially important for children, who can be easily overstimulated by electronic entertainment, so avoid leaving them in the bedroom. 4. Put a cork in it! Alcohol makes you drowsy, but it can degrade the quality of your sleep. Skip that glass of wine. Instead try to eat sleep-friendly foods such as sweet potatoes, turkey and broccoli. 5. Create an ideal bedroom environment For the best night's sleep, most people need cool, quiet rooms that are as dark as possible. A sound machine can help soothe you to sleep and drown out outside noises. The longer days delay the natural production of melatonin. Blackout shades can help.

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6. Consider taking a melatonin supplement If you're still not sleepy at your new target bedtime or you or your child is having trouble adjusting, consider a low -dose melatonin supplement. Whether you're coping with Daylight Saving Time, symptoms of jet lag from a trip, or just have occasional difficulty relaxing and getting to sleep, all these tips can help you get the rest you need to feel and be your best.

Sports

Page 9

Eagles Are Comeback Kids In Their Win Against Pembroke Hill by John Unrein Eight consecutive made free throws by the Grain Valley Eagles Boys Basketball team at the end of their Class 4, District 14 Tournament game proved they had ice water running through their veins. Seniors Josh Kilpatrick and Caden Matlon, along with Junior Jayden Yung, were perfect from the charity stripe during the last minute of the game in not allowing Pembroke Hill to chip away at the Eagles lead. Their effort would fuel the Eagles fourth quarter come from behind victory by a score of 62-53 against the Pembroke Hill Raiders on Monday, March 2nd. Matlon would lead all scorers with 26 points. The three point touch from behind the arc continues to return for Matlon at just the right time for the Eagles. Matlon’s preferred spot to do damage from long distance came from the baseline near Grain Valley’s bench on three of his four made three pointers. Three rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals would round out Matlon’s efforts for the evening. Matlon would emerge from the Eagles locker room after the game with Junior Cole Keller, and both were excited to talk about their team’s will to overcome the deficit they surpassed in their win. “The start of the game was about trying to feed other people who were open like Cole (Keller). He gave us some big buckets early on. When it was my turn, I made the most of it,” Matlon said. “Those were the biggest free throws we had all season at the end of the game. Especially, with Jayden (Yung) being newly initiated to varsity basketball and coming through the way he did.” Keller added, “We knew Pembroke Hill was athletic. That was going to make us need to play help defense when we were in man to man. That dude (Junior Guard Liam Weaver for Pembroke Hill) is a very good basketball player. I didn’t want him to score.”

Weaver was the Raiders’ leading scorer with 22 points. Most of that came from behind the arc or on drives to the hoop for Weaver. Keller helped to slow Weaver’s momentum by rejecting two of his shots in the second half under the basket. Keller’s return to the court after rehabbing from a knee injury sustained during the football season continues to help the Eagles. Keller’s busy night netted 10 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Grain Valley Eagles Boys Basketball Coach Andy Herbert was proud of the determination demonstrated by his squad. “Free throws are something that every team obviously works on. We take pride in it as a team. Practice typically concludes with us having to make six free throws in a row. Nobody leaves until that happens,” Herbert said. “The ones made by Caden (Matlon) and Josh (Kilpatrick) were important. The two though that Jaden Yung made at the end, to take us from up two, to up four points were huge.” Herbert finished with his thoughts on Keller, “Cole changes the game in so many ways. One of those is his ability to change and effect shots. We’ve struggled at times this year rebounding the basketball. His return has helped with that as well.” The Eagles patience with the adjustment they made offensively at the start of the second half also paid dividends toward their win. Grain Valley sent cutters through the middle of Pembroke Hill’s zone defense. The result was the basketball being worked inside out and swung across the perimeter for open looks that helped the Eagles turn the tide. “Having five guys on the floor for us with great court vision, playing unselfishly makes the outcome of tonight possible,” Herbert said.

Senior Caden Matlon sinks a free throw to help his team. Photo credit: John Overstreet

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Sports

Page 10

Grain Valley Pushes Past Panthers by John Unrein

The Grain Valley Lady Eagles Basketball team used two big offensive surges in the first and second halves to help secure their 52-28 win against the Oak Grove Panthers on March 2nd in a Class 4, District 14 Tournament matchup. Oak Grove started the game defensively in a 2-3 zone packed tight near the lane. Their objective was to force Grain Valley to shoot over the top of them without letting anyone have easy looks inside. The strategy was effective early on, holding the Eagles to a one point lead by a score of 14-13 with five minutes left in the second quarter. Grain Valley Lady Eagles Head Basketball Coach Randy Draper refused to have the game be dictated to him on someone else’s terms. The Eagles countered Oak Grove’s defensive strategy by centering the basketball at the top of the key and sending Freshman Grace Slaughter off the wing as a cutter to the basket. The change garnered positive results for the Eagles. Grain Valley went on a 90 run from the five minute mark to the three minute mark of the second quarter. It also permitted them to head into halftime with a ten point lead by a score of 25-15. Slaughter ended the game with 22 points, becoming the Lady Eagles alltime single season scorer with 579 points so far this season. Slaughter also added 7 steals, 4 assists, and 3 rebounds to her stat line. Quick hands permitted Slaughter to take the ball from the opponent she was guarding on several occasions. When asked about the scoring record, Slaughter used the moment to offer thanks to others that have supported her. “I think we all wanted to come out and make sure that we wouldn’t be going home after our first District game. The scoring record is special because it wouldn’t have happened without my teammates, coaches, and parents. It means everything for my Mom to be a part of this because we are extremely close. She’s always positively pushing me, even if I don’t want to hear it,” Slaughter said. Draper approached his team at halftime and wanted to know if they had enough in the tank to apply full court pressure in the second half. He received a resounding “yes.” The vote of confidence by the team cleared the way for them to go on a 14-0 run in the first four minutes of the second half by creating multiple turnovers that resulted in easy baskets going the other way. The combined two offensive waves by the Eagles yielded a net result of 23

points. That ended up nearly being the margin of victory for Grain Valley who ended up on top by 24 points. Draper was enthusiastic in sharing his response when asked about his team’s will to push past the Panthers. “We worked on getting better spacing offensively as the game progressed. We were doing what they wanted us to do early on. Patience allowed us to get the ball to (Grace) Slaughter. We talked to her about anticipating being double teamed when she received the ball. She did a good job of recognizing if she was open or closed and either passing the basketball or scoring,” Draper said. “I was proud of us because when it got to a one point margin, and you’re the one seed, and it’s your first District game, if you wanted to panic it was sitting there for you. Instead, we got back to what we do best. (Ella) Clyman gave a great effort as well tonight. We are starting to get two or three positive scoring options past Slaughter and that changes us.” Draper concluded, “Our press in the third quarter was as good as you can do it. I’m glad they voted to get after it in the locker room prior to the start of the second half. We look forward to our next opponent.” Freshman Forward Clyman did yeomen’s work under the glass rebounding the basketball as an important member of the Eagles win. Clyman would finish with 8 points, 10 rebounds, 1 assist, and 4 steals in a tireless effort. A portion of those rebounds came underneath the basket on free throws. Clyman at the bottom box of the lane turns her body towards the shooter. Upon release of the basketball, she rotates her body in front of the opponent next to her in securing box out position for the rebound. Clyman credited Grain Valley Assistant Basketball Coach Pete Carpino along with other members of the coaching staff in helping her perfect the technique. “I try my best to secure rebounds for my team so that we can score on as many possessions as possible. Coach Carpino along with my other coaches have helped me become good at rebounding under the basket during free throws,” Clyman said. “Playing as a team and playing fast is fun. We did it with high intensity. That allowed us to push through tonight.” The Grain Valley Lady Eagles Basketball Team will play next on Friday, March 6th at 5:30 pm in Oak Grove.

Freshmen Ella Clyman and Grace Slaughter enjoy their Class 4, District 14 Tournament Win. Photo credit: Valley News staff

Junior Malia Guttierrez sinks a three pointer to open the scoring in the game. Photo credit: Valley News staff

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Freshman Grace Slaughter finishes the breakaway with a layup. Photo credit: John Overstreet

Sports

Page 11

Eagles Come Up Short In Competitive Effort Against YellowJackets by John Unrein It took overtime in a highly competitive and physical game for the Grain Valley Eagles Boys Basketball team’s season to come to an end on March 3rd. The Center YellowJackets surged ahead with under a minute remaining in the extra period to come out on top of the Class 4, District 14 matchup by a score of 46-42. Neither team could get the point margin to spread in their favor past three points by the end of each quarter in regulation. Grain Valley did a good job of switching all night long on ball screens while on defense until late in the game. Fouls committed by the Eagles permitted the YellowJackets to stretch their lead with made free throws at the end of the contest. Grain Valley was hampered by a figurative lid on their basket with numerous shoots drawing iron before leaving the cylinder. Seniors Caden Matlon and Josh Kilpatrick led Grain Valley’s offense with their scoring efforts. Matlon contributed 16 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals in his final game as an Eagle. Kilpatrick garnered 12 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal in a noteworthy effort. Matlon shared his thoughts on his team’s performance and what it has meant to be an Eagle Basketball player after the game. “We played our hearts out. We wanted to win more than anything because we didn’t want this season to end. Shots that didn’t fall during a hard fought game led to the outcome,”

Matlon said. “This season was special in that I got to play basketball with all the kids I grew up with: Seth (Dankenbring), Josh (Kilpatrick), Triston (Whitton), AJ (Salisbury), Gavin (Oyler), and Cole (Keller). Those guys are my best friends.” Matlon concluded, “this coaching staff is full of great people. They always wanted the best for us. I can’t think them enough for the hours of film they watched and making sure we were always ready to compete.” Eagles Boys Head Basketball Coach Andy Herbert was proud of his team even in defeat. Hebert spoke to how much he enjoyed his time coaching the seniors on his roster. “We did such a good job defensively in what was a physical grind for 36 minutes. To get the things done that we got done, it would be hard to ask for anything more. The last play of the game during regulation when they tied it, we were a little late in getting back to the corner defensively. Center was able to get to the baseline and score,” Herbert said. “I don’t know what else you could ask from a group of sixteen to eighteen year old kids in how they battled through things all year long. The word persistence comes to mind. This senior class changed the course of our program. They believed in each other and gave so much in showing what a group that plays together can do.”

Junior Cole Keller turns a rebound into a pass to Seth Dankenbring. Photo credit: John Overstreet

Senior AJ Salisbury pulls down a rebound for the Eagles. Photo credit: John Overstreet

Community Calendar Monday, March 9, 2020

Senior Coffee Weekly on Mondays Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S Main 9:00am—11:00am Free. 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

Tuesday, May 10, 2020

Presidential Preference Primary Polls open 6:00am—7:00pm

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Apps to Make Your Life Easier Mid-Continent Public Library Grain Valley Branch 10:30am—11:30am Register: www.mymcpl.org/register

Planning and Zoning Commission Grain Valley City Hall, 711 S Main 6:30pm

Thursday, March 12, 2020

Community Campus Meeting Stony Point Elementary School, 1001 E Ryan Road 6:00pm—8:00pm Final community meeting prior to the April 7th municipal election. Citizens will have opportunity to submit questions via mobile devices, visit stations at which City staff and design team can answer questions, view renderings, floor plan designs and further developed site plans. Childcare provided.

Monday, March 16— 16 —Friday, March 20th Spring Break— Break—No School Grain Valley Schools

Tuesday, March 17, 2020

Music with Mar Faith United Methodist Church, 1950 SW Eagles Parkway 10:00am—11:00am Brain based music and movement class for children birth—5 years old. $5/family. 816-847-0008

Field Trip— Trip—Genghis Khan Exhibit at Union Station YMCA Active Older Adults Lunch prior to trip at El Tequilazo Restaurant. Noon—4:00pm 816-914-6195

$2 or Free for SilverSneakers, Silver & Fit, and Renew Active Members

Thursday, March 19, 2020

Movie Day and Homemade Popcorn YMCA Active Older Adults First Baptist Church, 207 W. Walnut 2:00pm—3:00pm

Bunco Potluck YMCA Active Older Adults First Baptist Church, 207 W. Walnut Noon—3:00pm Come enjoy Bunco and a shared meal in the gym. Prizes will be awarded to the winners. 816-914-6195

Monday, March 23, 2020

Senior Coffee Weekly on Mondays Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S Main 9:00am—11:00am Free. Senior Yoga Weekly on Mondays Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S Main 10:30am—11:15am

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

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Easter Escape Room Faith United Methodist Church, 1950 SW Eagles Parkway 6:00pm All ages family event. Instead of hunting, you and 6-8 of your closest friends will need to find the mystery of how Jesus escaped the tomb.

Tuesday, April 7, 2020

General Municipal Election Polls open 6:00am—7:00pm

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