Valley News: January 3, 2019

January 3, 2019

Valley News www.grainvalleynews.com

Residents Welcome 2019, Consider Resolutions After a cold and rainy end to 2018, Grain Valley residents welcomed 2019 and as is tradition, new year’s resolutions are on the minds of many.

Residents responding to a Valley News social media post regarding resolutions offered a number of goals, including spending less time on mobile devices, eating more healthfully, and exercising more.

Mayor Mike Todd identified a few City related resolutions he would like to see implemented in 2019.

“I would like the Board to be able to lower the tax levy another 10 cents this year like we did this past year, giving us a total of 20 cents in two years. I also want to get some good plans and renderings in place for the new municipal complex/aquatics center with the money we budgeted this year, so we can present those to residents and make adjustments to meet the needs of the community. Hopefully, we will be talking about some construction timelines next year when we talk about resolutions for 2020,” Todd said.

Mid-Continent Public Library’s Grain

Valley Assistant Branch Manager Jodi Vogler offered a unique spin on resolutions.

“I have chosen a motivational word of the year for the last several years, and my word for 2019 is Becoming. The word is meant to remind, and, in some cases, challenge me to follow paths I haven’t explored before. I have written it on the dry-erase board above my desk to serve as a daily reminder to approach each new opportunity as a means to better myself by becoming more balanced, becoming more mindful, etc.,” Vogler said.

Dr. Cathy Dowd, Chiropractic Physician and Owner of Grain Valley Chiropractic, is thinking about her personal wellness and the wellness of prospective patients.

“Personally, I want to increase my water intake and get completely off artificial sweeteners. Professionally, I want to increase my marketing efforts to help people get out of pain, empowering them to take charge over their pain and understand they don't have to live that way,” Dowd said.

the parking lot next to the Armstrong Park baseball fields.

Residents are asked to ensure trees are free of all decorations, including all lights, tinsel, garland, and all other foreign materials. Artificial trees will not be accepted.

For more information, please call 816-847-6230 x. 9.

FREE

Two Candidates File for Alderman Seats; Deadline to File January 15th As of December 31st, only two candidates have filed for three open Alderman seats. In Ward 2, Nancy Totton has filed for reelection. In Ward 3, Shea Bass has filed.

Election filing for the April 2019 election began on December 11th and will end on January 15th. One seat will be open in each of the City’s three wards.

Ward 1 Alderman Bamman, Ward 2 Alderman Totton, and former Ward 3 Alderman Coleman’s seats will be on

the ballot this year. Aldermen serve two -year terms.

Those interested in becoming a candidate for the position of Alderman must be at least 21 years of age, a citizen of the United States and a resident living in the City for at least one year before his/her election.

Additionally, interested parties should also be a resident of the Ward from which he or she is elected.

Good News

Senior Luncheon Set for January 9th

The next Grain Valley Senior Luncheon will be held Wednesday, January 9th from 11:30am—1:00pm at the Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S Main. This month’s luncheon will be sponsored by Beacon of Hope Hospice.

The menu will include baked

Recycle Trees Through January 10th Residents can dispose of their Christmas trees at the City’s designated drop off site. Grain Valley Parks and Recreation’s Christmas Tree Drop-Off site is open through January 10th. The drop-off site is located off of James Rollo Drive in

Vol. 2, No. 1

Photo credit: Valley News file photo.

chicken, rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, dinner rolls, and pineapple upside down cake.

There is a $3 suggested donation for the monthly luncheons.

Call 816-847-6293 or email info@cityofgrainvalley.org by January 7th to RSVP.

Local News

Page 2

“Passport to Everywhere” Winter Reading Challenge Begins January 15th January is the perfect time to escape the cold and cozy up with a book, and the Mid-Continent Public Library (MCPL) is encouraging readers to do just that with its Winter Reading Challenge.

This year’s MCPL Winter Reading Challenge theme is “Passport to Everywhere.”

“We hope it encourages readers to explore wild and unfamiliar places from the comfort of their favorite chairs. Books can be fiction or nonfiction. My favorite books that feature settings are travel memoirs. These are descriptions of personal transformative journeys in which the setting has played a major role. Some of my favorite travel memoirs are: Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert, A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson, and Driving over Lemons by Chris Stewart,” Grain Valley Assistant Branch Manager Jodi Vogler said.

Grain Valley Branch Manager Peyton Jenkins also offers his top five travel related recommendations.

“In keeping with our Winter Challenge theme, these books all feature characters who take some kind of journey or trip,” Jenkins said.

Jenkins recommends the following books: The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad Where'd You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple Rot & Ruin by Jonathan Maberry Calling Me Home by Julie Kibler Registration for the Winter Reading Challenge begins January 15th on the MCPL website, www.mymcpl.org.

Everyone who completes the challenge by reading any five books between January 15 – March 15, 2019 will receive a special commemorative coffee mug with this year’s theme.

Additionally, MCPL is offering participants the opportunity to win a Kansas City “stay-cation” package as well as a grand prize trip for two to the Dominican Republic.

12,080 Deer Harvested During MO AlternativeMethods Portion of Season Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows that deer hunters in Missouri harvested 12,080 deer during the alternative-methods portion of the fall firearms deer season, which ran Dec. 22 - Jan. 1.

Of the total harvest, 3,081 were antlered bucks, 1,586 button bucks, and 7,413 does. Top harvest counties were Callaway with 304 deer harvested,

Osage with 278, and Franklin with 263.

The harvest total for last year’s alternative-methods portion was 10,027 with 2,830 being antlered bucks, 1,311 button bucks, and 5,886 does.

Deer hunting continues for this season with statewide archery hunting through Jan. 15. For more information on deer hunting in Missouri, visit huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/huntingtrapping/species/deer.

Police Blotter

The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police Department daily calls for service log for the week of December 19-25, 2018.

December 19, 2018 700 Block Whitney Dr 200 Block N Memorial Dr 1300 Block Phelps 1300 Block Ashley Dr 1600 Block Highview Dr 800 Block Redbud 1200 Block Long Dr East City Limits 1200 Block NW Phelps Dr 1800 Block NW Rosewood Dr 800 Block Ridgeview BB Hwy & Woodbury 1100 Block Golfview Dr December 20, 2018 600 Block Whitestone Dr 700 Block Main St 300 Block Jefferson 300 Block Jefferson 700 Block Main St Sni-A-Bar 500 Block Montana Ridge McQuerry Rd & Sunny Ln Woodland Drive 500 Block Montana Ridge December 21, 2018 31000 Block Pink Hill Rd 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 900 Block Cross Creek 600 Block Yennie 1000 Block Foxtail 700 Block Cross Creek 700 Block Main St 1300 Block Phelps Ct 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 1100 Block Sandy Ln

Stealing Prisoner Pickup Alarm Agency Assist (BSPD) Abandoned Property Property Damage Check the Well Being Prisoner Transport Parking Complaint Nuisance Animal Alarm Motor Vehicle Accident Agency Assist (DFS)

Suspicious Activity Citizen Contact Prisoner Transport Trepassing Property Damage Agency Assist (JCSO) Alarm Leaving the Scene of an Accident Citizen Contact Abandoned Vehicle

Suspicious Vehicle Stealing Stealing Citizen Contact Check the Well Being Area Check Check the Residence Stealing Disturbance Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Citizen Contact

December 22, 2018 1400 Block Mary Ct 100 Block Sunny Ln 900 Block Ryan Rd 400 Block Laura Ln 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 800 Block Country Hill 300 Block Front St 500 Block Woodbury Dr 700 Block Main St 400 Block Broadway

December 23, 2018 1300 Block Valley Woods Ct 100 Block Cross Creek Ln Front & Gregg 700 Block Main St 700 Block Tisha Ln 200 Block Barr Rd 700 Block Main St December 24, 2018 1600 Block Eagle Ridge Dr 500 Block Magnolia 1300 Block Cherry 1300 Block Walnut Ct 1200 Block Indian Creek Ct US 40 Hwy & OOIDA 400 Block Laura Ln

911 Hang Up Agency Assist (CJC) Alarm Disturbance Warrant Service Citizen Contact Agency Assist (CJC) Animal Control Disturbance Citizen Contact Agency Assist (OGPD)

Disturbance Suspicious Activity Animal At Large Citizen Contact Suspicious Vehicle Check the Well Being Citizen Contact

200 Block Sni-A-Bar 1300 Block Dean Dr

Citizen Contact Disturbance Prisoner Transport Alarm Area Check Agency Assist (CJC) Check the Well Being Area Check Animal Complaint

December 25, 2018 40 Hwy & Meadow 400 Block Montana Ridge 100 Block AA Hwy 100 Block Rock Creek 100 Block Rock Creek 100 Block Main St 1000 Block Sandy Ln 400 Block Rock Creek Ln

Suspicious Activity Agency Assist (CJC) Area Check Alarm Alarm Trepassing Property Damage Disturbance

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

Sign up for our weekly emails and join us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

(@grainvalleynews).

G R A I N VA L L E Y N E W S

LOCALLY FOCUSED. FAMILY OWNED. PUBLISHED WEEKLY.

Online weekly at www.grainvalleynews.com

Page 3

5 Questions

with Chelsey Lauer, Founder & CEO, JLB Simplify

Now that the holidays are over, retail ads have transitioned from gifts and holiday decorations to endless storage solutions, totes, and containers, all promising a quick fix to create an organized home.

Valley News recently visited with Chelsey Lauer, Founder & CEO of JLB Simplify, a professional organizing service provider, for expert advice on tackling clutter at home.

Tell us a bit about why you started JLB Simplify.

I was organized before I had kids, and as an organized person it drove me nuts that I couldn't keep my house clutter free after having them. I wanted to create a service to help other people like me, who were overwhelmed by the state of their homes, and due to some life changes needed extra help and guidance with getting their home organized again.

Many people place "getting organized" on their list of new year's resolutions.

What are your general tips for those who are trying to get more organized at home?

Start by deciding what areas of your home you want to organize and then decide which areas are a higher priority.

When you decide to organize any area, set aside a minimum of 2-3 hours where you can work on the project. Have bags for trash available and create a pile for donation items. Then focus on removing as many trash and donation items from the area which will make the area less visually overwhelming.

Create specific homes for everything.

The homes can be a broad category such as "First Aid" or "Sports". Having

small groups of items scattered throughout the home is not only stressful when you are looking for something but also makes letting go of items harder. When we don't really know what we have, and we can't see it all at the same time, we tend to want to keep everything "just in case" we need it.

Once everything is in one area, it will be easier to make decisions on what can stay and what can go as well as how best to store the items.

What are some basic steps you suggest for someone to get started organizing their home in January?

Figure out what areas you want to be more organized and then think about what is functional about the area and what frustrates you about the area.

Create an "Organizing Tool Box" so when you are ready to start a new organizing project you don't get discouraged by not being able to find supplies. In your tool box you should have trash bags, Post-It notes (for labeling piles), a marker, masking tape, and miscellaneous sized resealable plastic storage bags.

Find a donation center near you and know the days and times for donation drop off. It is best to remove donation items within a few days after completing an organizing project.

Set realistic goals. Try to do one large project a month, such as the garage, basement, or kitchen. If that feels overwhelming or if you want to do more, try to do one small to medium sized job every other week, such as a bathroom or linen closet.

At what point should someone reach out to a professional organizer?

I was organized before I had kids, and as an organized person it drove me nuts that I couldn't keep my house clutter free after having them. I wanted to create a service to help other people like me, who were overwhelmed by the state of their homes and due to some life changes needed extra help and guidance with getting their home organized again.” again.”

- Chelsey Lauer, Founder & CEO of JLB Simplify, a professional organizing service provider. provider .

Pictured: Lauer’ Lauer’s three sons. Photo credit: Chelsey Lauer

 If you feel stuck and can't figure out

can be emotional. Having a third party there can help you focus and make decisions.

JLB Simplify can specifically provide assistance with unpacking and hew home organization, donation removal, organizing product recommendations, paperwork organization, and virtual organizing for anyone who just wants some guidance from a professional.

What kinds of assistance can a professional organizer provide?

Lauer is offering Valley News readers a free copy of the JLB Simplify 4-Step Organizing Booklet and Video. Visit http://www.jlbsimplify.com/diyorganizing-booklets--videos.html and use the promo code GVNEWS to download the booklet and video.

For more information on JLB Simplify, visit www.JLBsimplify.com.

what to do first. This is a common feeling to have especially after any life changes.  If you or a family member need help with the manual labor aspect of getting organized.  If you simply don't have the time, don't like organizing, or need an extra pair of hands to tackle a project.

A professional organizer can help with implementing a new organizing system in your home. This can make keeping up with the day to day issues much easier.

A professional organizer is also helpful when dealing with projects that

New Year, New You, New Snacks

by Tracey Shaffer, RDN, LD

Each new year brings a sense of new beginnings and the opportunity for a fresh start. Many people take this opportunity to set health and wellness goals. Studies show that snacking the right way may help you avoid overeating later on. Snacks are a great pick-me-up that provide an opportunity to include all the important food groups into your diet to fill your body full of quality nutrients.

Try to keep your snacks under 200 calories each for an average adult, or between 200 and 300 calories for athletes. Think of snacks as mini-meals that contribute nutrient-rich foods.

The key to healthy snacking is moderation and being aware of appropriate portion sizes. Here are five delicious snacks that have carbs, protein and/or healthy fats to keep you full and energized until your next meal!

Citrus – Snacks such as clementines and kiwis contain fiber, potassium and vitamin C, along with many other nutrients. Grapefruit is also a delicious

and healthy citrus option. Tip: Don’t have a knife to cut and segment? Simply peel like an orange and eat!

Baked Chickpeas – Looking to satisfy that salty, crunchy craving? Chickpeas are a well-balanced snack that have protein and fiber to help keep us full and energized.

Tip: Make your own! Simply drain and rinse a can of chickpeas, pat dry, and toss with olive oil, salt and pepper.

Spread the chickpeas in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet and bake at 400°F until crisp, about 30 minutes.

String Cheese Quesadilla (to(to-go style!) – This snack is incredibly easy and filling. Place 1 unwrapped string cheese stick in the middle of a wholegrain tortilla. Microwave for 30 seconds, or until cheese is soft. Fold the tortilla over, top with salsa, if desired, and enjoy!

Homemade Chia “Pod” Pod” – These seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition.

Four grams of fiber are found in every tablespoon of chia seeds. But the

common question seems to be what to do with them? Try chia pudding! Simply combine chia seeds, some sort of liquid, such as your favorite milk, and fruit.

Healthier Sweet Treat – Sometimes the craving for something sweet strikes!

Instead of denying the craving, try a healthier option. For example, puppy chow is known for its chocolatey, powdered sugar coating. Try using part vanilla protein powder along with powdered sugar for a protein boost.

Switch out your usual cereal for shredded wheat to increase the fiber.

You can also cut back on the amount of chocolate by adding a little natural peanut butter to increase the protein.

Yum! 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.

Citrus Crunch Serves 2

Ingredients: 1 medium grapefruit, halved ¼ c. fat-free lemon yogurt 2 tbsp Grape Nuts cereal Directions: Section grapefruit.

Top each grapefruit half with 2 tablespoons yogurt and 1 tablespoon cereal.

Nutrition Facts per serving: 90 calories, 0g fat, 0mg cholesterol, 65 mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate, 2g fiber, 14g sugar, 3g protein.

Source: Hy-Vee Test Kitchen

Business News

Page 4 Blue Branch Manor Offers Luxury Senior Living at Affordable Price Blue Branch Manor, a senior living neighborhood located in Grain Valley, offers 43 beautifully designed single story ranch homes for lease to seniors 55 and older.

“Our location and our layout distinguishes us from other options in the area. There are no stairs anywhere on the property, and each unit is completely accessible,” Teresa McBride, Owner/Manager of Blue Branch Manor said.

Blue Branch Manor is located one mile south of 1-70 at the intersection of AA Highway (Eagles Parkway) and Minter Way. “Our residents love the small town atmosphere, and we are centrally located near Blue Springs and Lee’s Summit, so there are plenty of amenities in the area to offer options for everyone. We are conveniently located near a number of hospitals, physicians, the Grain Valley Community Center and Blue Springs YMCA, as well as two grocery stores that both offer delivery. There are a number of recreational options for residents, including the monthly senior luncheons at the Grain Valley Community Center, and the OATS bus service is available for residents,” McBride said.

Tuesday nights are game nights in the clubhouse, and there are 3-4 planned social gatherings a year.

The clubhouse is available for residents to use for family gatherings and parties.

Each unit includes a covered porch, and continuous sidewalks throughout the neighborhood allow for leisurely walks with no stairs.

Each home features wide hallways and doorways, extra long showers with seats and grab bars, fully

equipped kitchens, and tiled floors in kitchens, baths and entries. There is ample, accessible parking for residents and guests. Lawn care, snow removal, and trash service are included.

Another unique feature includes a laundry closet in each unit that accommodates a full size washer and dryer. Small pets are allowed with a deposit. One bedroom units are $750; two bedroom units are $875.

For vacancy information, contact Teresa McBride, 816-607-1075 or bluebranchmanor@gmail.com.

For more information on Blue Branch Manor, visit www.bluebranchmanor.com.

Sponsored advertisement.

Learn more about the Partnership: www.growgrainvalley.org

Upcoming Partnership Events: January Luncheon Tue Jan 8 2019, 11:30am - 1:00pm

February Luncheon Tue Feb 5 2019, 11:30am - 1:00pm

After Hours at Andrist Agency Thur Jan 10 2019, 5:00pm—7:00pm

After Hours at Sandra Dee’ Dee’s Gifts Thur Feb 21 2019, 5:00pm—7:00pm

For more information on membership and upcoming Partnership events, visit www.growgrainvalley.org or call Tasha Lindsey, 816-443-5162.

“Our residents love the small town atmosphere, and we are centrally Lee’’s located near Blue Springs and Lee Summit, so there are plenty of amenities in the area to offer options for everyone.

- Teresa McBride, Owner/Manager

Blue Branch Manor in Grain Valley is conveniently located one mile south of 11-70 at the intersection of AA Highway (Eagles Parkway) and Minter Way. There are 43 beautifully designed single story ranch homes for lease to seniors 55 and older. Each unit includes a covered porch, and continuous sidewalks throughout the neighborhood allow for leisurely walks with no stairs.

Photo credit: Blue Branch Manor

Business News is provided 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.

Community Voices

Page 5

Happy Holiday and Philanthropy Season

by Phil Hanson, President and CEO Truman Heartland Community Foundation

We hope you had a Merry Christmas and a holiday season full of family and friends. This is very busy time of year for your Community Foundation and all of us in the philanthropy business. As I write this column, the final days of the year approach and daily we are hearing from people who want to do more with their charitable giving and establish a charitable fund.

We are seeing a great deal of interest in the “charitable bunching concept” that I mentioned in earlier columns. Under the new tax laws with the higher standard deduction, more donors are utilizing a Donor Advised Fund and bunching as a tax wise charitable giving tool as the year comes to a close.

It’s too early to get statistics on total charitable giving in 2018, however, I still stand by the prediction I made in my January column entitled “An Alternative Outlook on Charitable Giving Under the New Tax Law.” We won’t have official numbers from Giving USA until July of

2019, but contrary to the predications of others in the philanthropy world, I anticipate that compared to 2017, charitable giving will be up. To refresh your memory, the study commissioned by the Independent Sector predicted a decrease in charitable giving as a result of the higher standard deduction and many fewer households being able to itemize their charitable deductions.

However, according to one recent survey, at the end of the third quarter of this year, charitable giving was up year to date.

Although giving was down slightly in the first two quarters of the year, strong contributions in the third quarter now have charitable giving up compared to the first three quarters of 2017. Here at your Community Foundation, we are also seeing very strong contributions and we are on pace to have a record year. I will report back with official results in July, but I think my faith in people and their motivations for giving will be proven correct.

Speaking of motivations, I want to encourage high school and college students in our area to take advantage

of this holiday break and go check out the scholarships available from Truman Heartland at https://www.thcf.org/ Grant-Scholarship-Seekers/ Scholarships. We have a new general scholarship application that will be a time saver for students (and parents).

For example, graduating high school seniors complete one general scholarship application and then receive information on the scholarships they are eligible for and what additional information is needed for each scholarship. Scholarships are available for students pursuing undergraduate, graduate and technical degrees.

The deadline for the general scholarship application is February 1 and students have until February 11 to submit additional items. This past year, we awarded scholarships totaling over $287,000 to 218 students in our region so it’s worth taking a few minutes to check it out.

As we prepare for 2019, I would also remind all the Baby Boomers in our area who are looking for volunteer opportunities in the new year to utilize our Boomers Get Connected resources

at https://www.thcf.org/Boomers-GetConnected.

We continue our work with area nonprofits and governments looking for volunteers and help them connect with Baby Boomers in our communities to better utilize their time and talents.

Volunteering more in 2019 would be a great New Year’s resolution and the resources on the Boomers Get Connected site are available for everyone regardless of age.

Happy New Year to all!

Phil Hanson is the President and CEO of Truman Heartland Community Foundation. Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF) is a 501 (c)(3) public charity committed to improving the communities in and around Eastern Jackson County through cooperation with community members and donors. THCF serves the region with assets of more than $47 million and annual grants surpassing $3 million. For more information on charitable giving, visit www.thcf.org of call Truman Heartland at 816.836.8189.

We want to hear from you!

Valley News welcomes your letters and news submissions. Send press releases and letters to news@grainvalleynews.com. Please include your full name and a contact phone # for verification purposes. Valley News gladly accepts announcements of anniversaries, births, college graduations, engagements, weddings, and obituaries.

There is no charge for text only listings. listings Additional celebration announcements are welcome (Eagle Scout, military graduations and honors, milestone birthdays, etc.).

www.grainvalleynews.com

Looking Back: To “E” or Not to “E”, That is the Question

by Marcia Napier Grain Valley Historical Society

In 1878 Joseph Peters employed James Lucas to survey the 10 acres that made up the town of Grain Valley.

Only two blocks long, Capelle Street stretched from Yennie on the north to Front Street on the south .

In the first part of the twentieth century only two houses faced Capelle, but several important structures lined the street. These buildings included the Baptist Church, the Methodist Church, the first Grain Valley School, the telephone office, and the Hard Shell Baptist Church at the top of the hill on Yennie.

According to the 1920 History of Jackson County compiled and written

by W. Z. Hickman, Britton M. Capell (no “e”) was born October 2, 1815 in North Carolina, but his family soon moved to Simpson County, Kentucky. There he

was educated and apprenticed as a cabinetmaker for two years and worked the trade for five years.

December 16, 1834, he married Sarah A Clayton, a native of Logan County Kentucky.

The Capell family immigrated to Jackson County in 1839 settling on a 460-acre farm on land that would become the northwest edge of Grain Valley. The 1840 and 1850 US Census shows his residence as Sni-A-Bar Township. The 1860 US Census shows his residence as Stony Point.

Britton Capell was one of the finest farmers in the county. He and his family were active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and in the early days prior to the Church at Pink Hill, their home answered the purpose of a church. He and his wife donated

land for the Capelle School, built near the present day East Kansas City Airport.

In later years a portion of the farm was sold to E. E. Kirby. According to Capell’s great-great granddaughter Barbara Overall, Mrs. John R. Washburn, most of the land was to the north, so it was intersected by US Highway 40 and later by Interstate 70.

Britton and Sarah had eight children, seven living to adulthood: Bernetta A (Mrs. Dyer), Susan Rose (Mrs. Wm. Kirby), Mary M., David C., Martha J. (Mrs. J. T. Wright) John O., and Trusten P. Sarah died in 1871, and Britton died in 1889. They are buried in Lobb Cemetery.

In another section of the book, Trusten Capelle (with an “e”) is mentioned.

The next meeting of the Grain Valley Historical Society will be held January 24th beginning at 6:00pm with a potluck dinner.

10am— The Grain Valley Historical Society Museum, located at 510 Main Street, is open Wednesdays from 10am —3pm Society’’s website, www.grainvalleyhistory.com, and follow the Society and by appointment. Visit the Historical Society on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (@grainvalleyhistory).

Capelle Street was named for Britton Capell, a farmer who settled with his family in Jackson County in 1839. He and his wife donated land for the Capelle School, built near the present day East Kansas City airport.

Photo credit: Marcia Napier

Community Voices

Page 6 Wayne’s World

You Can’t Make Me Mad

by Wayne Geiger

I’m not a big fan of New Year’s resolutions, but I’m all about making positive changes—anytime of the year. I made a decision quite a few years ago that has been life-changing for me. I decided that people can’t make me angry.

For me, that decision has made me a better, kinder, more-relaxed person. It took me a while to get there, and I’m still fine tuning, but the decision has changed my life.

Please don’t misunderstand me.

When I say, “people can’t make me angry,” I am not saying that I don’t get angry. Like everyone else, from time to time, I do get angry. Getting angry is not the issue. The issue is all about perspective.

What I am saying is that I made a conscious decision years ago to take ownership of my feelings and my actions. I have changed my perspective to say, “You can't make me angry; instead, I make the choice to get angry.”

Simple.

It’s more than simple semantics, really. For me, the perspective has become quite liberating and refreshing.

If I say “you make me angry,” what I am saying is that I am not in control of my own feelings. Instead, I have handed my emotions over to someone else and become a prisoner to that person. I have become a puppet on a string.

I realized years ago that playing the blame game didn’t help. I learned I needed to own up to my own feelings and actions and stop being the victim.

In so doing, I also choose to accept the consequences for my actions.

That change in perspective puts me

in the driver’s seat. So, if someone cuts in front of me in the line at Walmart, they don’t make me angry. Instead, I have the power over my emotions and can choose my response. Sometimes, I respond well. Sometimes, I may not respond well. However, in each case I take ownership of my attitude and actions.

Psychologists tell us that anger is a secondary emotion. In other words, anger is always an emotional response to some external circumstance. Here are a couple of examples: We may get angry when we don’t get our way. Our boss tells us that we have to work late, but we really want to leave. In response, we become frustrated and irritated. We feel that we have been violated or taken advantage of by someone. We then lash out in anger at others.

We get angry when we are afraid.

When our 16-year-old comes home late, we respond in anger by saying, “where have you been!” Our anger is a defense mechanism that blocks our true emotions. The underlying emotion may be fear. We may have been afraid that that they were hurt or something bad happened them.

Anger can also be a response to physical or psychological pain. Years ago, our family suffered the loss of a pet that was very special to us. It was a time of intense sadness. I also experienced anger. In my anger, I wanted to get rid of all of the pet supplies and said, “no more dogs.”

My anger was only a mask that prevented me from dealing with the

deeper, natural emotion of pain and loss.

Anger properly channeled can be a good thing. Anger, directed properly, can motivate us to work for change.

However, anger can also be destructive especially if we respond inappropriately or if we don’t deal with the true emotion lying below the surface. The path to healing and resolution, then, is to identify the trigger and the underlying, true emotion. This takes some introspection and may also bring pain.

For example, let’s say that the kids keep coming in and out of the house slamming the door. With each slam, you get more and more irritated and upset.

Finally, you boil over and, in desperation, you explode, “if you slam that door one more time…”

The obvious trigger is that the kids keep coming in and going out of the door. But, what is the underlying emotion? It could be a number of things: You are hungry (hangry) or tired and just want to relax.

You’re trying to concentrate on something important and the noise is a constant interruption from your progress.

Things are tough financially and you really dislike the fact that you are

paying for the heat and it is escaping out the front door.

Naturally, the best way to handle the above scenario is to deal with it head on. First, set the ground rules. Then, as much as possible, explain your rationale. Third, talk about the potential consequences if the rules are broken.

Finally, enforce the rules when violated.

In doing so, you minimize the potential for a hostile situation and you remain in control.

Getting angry is part of being human. Anger itself is not the issue.

The problem is an unhealthy response to our anger. We have all heard stories of people who have unleashed a great amount of hurt and grief because they could not control their anger. In truth, we could all probably hang our heads and confess that there have been times when we have caused ourselves—and others—pain because of our mismanagement of anger.

Thankfully, this does not need to be the case. We can't always change our circumstances, but when it comes to anger, we can take ownership of our feelings and choose our response.

Nobody can make us mad. We are in the driver’s seat and have the power to change our own lives. And, if you think about it, the only one we can really change is ourselves.

Parks & Recreation Dept. to Host Father/Daughter Valentine Dance Grain Valley Parks and Recreation will host a Father/Daughter Valentine Dance at the Grain Valley Community Center on Saturday, February 2nd from 7:00pm—9:00pm. The event is open to girls from Kindergarten through 12th grade and their fathers or grandfathers.

Guests will enjoy dancing,

refreshments and prizes, and all guests will also receive a special keepsake picture. Tickets are limited and must be pre-purchased online at https:// grainvalley.recdesk.com.

The last day to register is Monday, January 28th. Registration is $18 for father and daughter; additional daughters are $7/each.

Sports

Page 7

Focusing on the Process Lifts Eagles to Victory over Oak Grove

by John Unrein

The Eagles Boys Head Basketball Coach Andy Herbert’s message this season has been consistent. “We’ve talked all year about focusing on the process rather than the result, and that if you do things the right way long enough good things will happen,” Herbert said.

Grain Valley’s 65-63 buzzer beating victory over Oak Grove is proof that the message has taken hold. The Eagles erased a 21-point deficit in the second half. The win culminated with Junior Josh Kirkpatrick’s tip in under the basket off Sophomore Cole Keller’s missed shot as time expired.

Keller displayed heart in getting himself in position to attempt the contested shot. Kirkpatrick’s hustle and timing were brilliant on the follow up.

He was in the right place at the right time. Other contributions to the team’s victory included the hustle of Junior Gavin Oyler who was on the floor more than once and the strong ball handling and passing of Senior Kevin Gutierrez.

Josh Kilpatrick and Caden Mation both tied for the team lead in scoring with 17 points each.

The Eagles also tried to hold down the strong play of Oak Grove’s Trey Bryant in the paint. The 6’ 5” Senior was a load to handle on the blocks.

“Oak Grove is a very talented team that’s well coached. Every time we play them it’s a battle. The atmosphere was incredible on both sides. That’s what makes high school sports so much fun,” Herbert said.

Grain Valley will next host the North Kansas City Hornets on Friday, January 4th.

(Above) Junior Josh Kilpatrick attempts a free throw before a standing room only crowd in Oak Grove on Friday, December 28th.

(Left) Senior Guard Kevin Gutierrez at tip off vs. Oak Grove.

Grain Valley Boys Basketball will next host the North Kansas City Hornets on Friday, January 4th.

Photo credit: Valley News staff

Grain Valley Girls Basketball Drops Game to Panthers

by John Unrein

The Lady Eagles could not protect their 20-16 halftime lead against the Panthers.

Oak Grove’s Lilli Weir provided consistent second half scoring in the low post to help propel her team to a 39-27 win.

The Panthers 2-3 zone also proved formidable. The Eagles swung the ball with passes trying to attack the third side of the zone looking for a baseline cutter, an open shot, or drive to the basket. It did not yield enough scoring to erase the second half deficit.

Oak Grove moved to a strategy of holding the basketball on offense with under four minutes left in the game.

This slowed the pace of action despite constant pressure being applied by

seniors Kendra Sibert, Gracelyn LaForge, and Brittney McKay in the passing lanes and as on the ball defenders. Turnovers also plagued the Eagles in the second half as they attempted to rush the ball up the court in attempt to catch up.

“Our effort was good, we got stagnate against their zone and that hurt us in the second half. We still need to improve offensively, but I’m pretty happy with us defensively. It was a good atmosphere to play in,” Head Girls Basketball coach Randy Draper said.

Grain Valley will next host the North Kansas City Hornets on Thursday, January 3rd.

Grain Valley Girls Basketball could not protect their 2020-16 halftime lead against 39--27. The Lady Eagles will next host the North Kansas City the Panthers, falling 39 Hornets on Thursday, January 3rd.

Photo credit: Valley News staff

Girls Swim & Dive Finishes Fourth in Blue Springs Meet Grain Valley Girls Swim and Dive had a strong showing during a meet at Blue Springs YMCA on December 28th. The team finished fourth behind Blue Springs South, Lee’s Summit North, and Liberty High Schools.

The 400 Free Relay team of

Maddie Epple, Alyssa Hanenkratt, Bailey Reich, and Rachel Turpin finished 5th with a State Consideration Time of 4:26.57. Turpin also finished second in the 500 yard freestyle with a time of 5:58.11.

Freshman Ella Boyle finished 7th in the 100 yard Butterfly event. Boyle

also competed in the 100 yard Breaststroke, finishing 5th with a time of 1:27.42. Alyssa Hannenkratt finished 6th in the 100 yard Breaststroke with a time of 1:28.51.

Hanenkratt and Maddie Epple finished in the top 10 of the 100 yard Freestyle.

Diver Hayden Meyer finished second with a finals score of 199.55.

Abigail Castle finished 5th with a score of 180.85.

The team next heads to a tournament at the Henley Aquatic Center on January 11th.

Community Calendar January 5, 2019 We Do Lego Robotics: Airplane Rescue 11:00am—12:00pm Mid-Continent Public Library Grain Valley Branch Registration required: https://www.mymcpl.org/events January 7, 2019 Book Group 6:30pm—7:30pm Mid-Continent Public Library Grain Valley Branch January 9, 2019 Grain Valley Senior Luncheon 11:30am—1:00pm Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S Main Call 816-847-6293 or email info@cityofgrainvalley.org by January 7th to RSVP. $3 suggested donation.

January 10, 2019 Beginning Genealogy 6:30pm— 6:30pm—7:30pm 7:30pm Find out the fundamentals of beginning your genealogical research project. MidContinent Public Library Grain Valley Branch Registration required: https://www.mymcpl.org/events

January 14, 2019 Board of Alderman Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 Main January 15, 2019 Park Board Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S Main January 19, 2019 Firearms Basic Care and Cleaning: Pistol Only 9:00am—11:30am Lake City Shooting Range, 28505 E Truman Road 816-249-3194 January 21, 2019 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day City Hall closed; Grain Valley Schools closed.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES The City of Grain Valley is now hiring for a Police Officer and Animal Control Officer.

Officer Apply online at https://www.cityofgrainvalley.org/ employment/.

January 24, 2019 Grain Valley Historical Society Meeting 6:00pm potluck; program follows.

Grain Valley Historical Society Museum, 506 South Main www.grainvalleyhistory.com Add your community event online at www.grainvalleynews.com.

The Valley News Service Directory provides an affordable and effective opportunity for businesses to advertise their services to readers. Space is limited; reserve your advertisement today!

Cory Unrein, 816816-809809-7984 or cory@grainvalleynews.com.

GRAIN VALLEY NEWS LOCALLY FOCUSED. FAMILY OWNED. PUBLISHED WEEKLY.