Valley News www.grainvalleynews.com
October 18, 2018
Vol. 1, No. 18
FREE
District Releases Proposed Elementary Boundary Adjustments Grain Valley Schools has released a map outlining the proposed elementary boundary adjustments recommended to addressed overcrowding at Prairie Branch and Matthews. Parents of 286 current elementary students who live in neighborhoods directly impacted by the proposed elementary boundary adjustments were notified by the district via email last week. A Community Engagement meeting will be held at 6:00pm on Wednesday, October 17th at North Middle School, 31608 NE Pink Hill Road, to provide information on the need for adjusting boundaries, the proposed changes, and to address concerns. The meeting is open to the public. Attendees will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed changes. Those who are unable to attend the October 17th meeting will have the opportunity to provide feedback via an online feedback option
beginning October 18th. Following a presentation to the Board of Education on September 20th in which district administration outlined the need for both an addition at North Middle School and redistricting at the elementary to address overcrowding, a steering committee of residents convened to come up with a redistricting plan at the elementary level. Redistricting could allow the district 5-10 years of time before the district would need to consider adding a 5th elementary school. According to district provided numbers, class sizes are on the rise at Prairie Branch Elementary and Matthews Elementary as enrollment at these two schools increases. Neither have the space for continued growth. Both Sni-A-Bar Elementary and Stony Point Elementary have classroom space and downward trending enrollment. The proposed boundary adjustments
Good News
see BOUNDARY on page 2
Publisher’ Publisher’s Note: The best “Good News” comes unsolicited, as evidenced by an email we received from Bryan Hoover, a sophomore at GVHS in his second year with the Marching Eagles. Bryan shared the following note with us:
“I would like to thank my directors and fellow band members for this amazing season. We have grown as a band and even more as a family. For our marching band to work, we need all of the participation we could get, and we have done just that. I would like to thank the band parents and volunteers, because without them we would not be as successful as we are. We would love for the Grain Valley community to come support us at our last two competitions.”
Sophomore Bryan Hoover, a member of the Marching Eagles, with his biggest supporter, his cousin Hunter Hazen.
The map above illustrates the proposed elementary boundary adjustments. Illustration courtesy of Grain Valley Schools.
ON THE BALLOT The sample ballot for the November 6th General Election is provided on page 10 of this issue. To verify your voter registration information and polling location, visit the Jackson County Board of Election Commissioners website at https://www.jcebmo.org/. Missouri’s photo ID requirement for voting went into effect on June
1, 2017. Voters will be asked to present a photo ID before voting. If you do not possess a photo ID, you can still vote. Information on the three options voters can use to present identification can be found on page 3 of this issue or by visiting https:// www.sos.mo.gov/showit2vote.
Local News
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BOUNDARY continued from page 1 call for approximately 90 students each to transfer from Matthews to Stony Point, from Matthews to Sni-ABar, and from Prairie Branch to Matthews effective with the start of the 2019-2020 school year. The result will provide Matthews and Prairie Branch with room to grow roughly 90 students each over the next 6-10 years. The proposed elementary boundary adjustment also addresses concerns that Matthews Elementary students are split between North and South Middle Schools. Under the proposed
elementary boundary changes, all Matthews students would transition to North Middle School. Matthews neighborhoods currently within the boundary for South Middle School would attend Stony Point or Sni -A-Bar under the proposed changes and attend South Middle Schools. There are no proposed changes to middle school boundaries at this time. The Board is not expected to act on any proposal until at least the November 15 School Board meeting.
Trunk or Treat and Fall Festival Features Screening of
It’s The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown Faith United Methodist Church, located at 1950 SW Eagles Parkway, will hold their annual Trunk or Treat and Fall Festival on Wednesday October from 6:00pm-8:00pm. 24th Beginning at 6:00pm, members of the community are invited to begin trick or treating the trunks which will be open and filled with candy and other goodies. Faith UMC will also offer free kettle
corn, a bounce house, pumpkin patch, maze, hayride, and an outdoor screening of It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown beginning at 7:00pm. This is a free event with something for everyone in the family. Children are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes. For more information or to register to host a trunk, contact Faith United Methodist at 816-847-0008.
Police Blotter
The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police Department daily calls for service log for the week of October 3-9, 2018. October 3, 2018 1200 Block Eagles Ridge East Bound I-70 500 Block James Rollo 1400 Block Eagles Parkway 400 Block Orion BB Hwy & Ryan Rd 1200 Block Eagles Ridge 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St West Bound I-70 East Bound I-70 October 4, 2018 1300 Block RD Mize Rd 700 Block Main St 600 Block Westview 700 Block Main St October 5, 2018 1300 Block Honeylocust Ct 200 Block Main St 1100 Block Pamela Blvd 1100 Block Smith St
Recovered Stolen Property Suspicious Person Alarm Animal At Large Alarm Agency Assist (JCSO) Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Warrant Confirmation Vehicle in Ditch Agency Assist (MSHP) Agency Assist (CJC) Warrant Arrest Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Motor Vehicle Accident Suspicious Auto Dealer Application Prisoner Transport
1400 Block Nicholas 400 Block Woodbury Lefholz & McQuerry 200 Block Rock Creek Dr 600 Block Nelson 200 Block Hannah Ct 100 Block Baker St 400 Block Coldwater Creek October 6, 2018 200 Block Broadway 200 Block Cypress 400 Block Front St 600 Block Jefferson St 1000 Block Mountain View 700 Block Squire Ct 200 Block Jefferson St 700 Block Main St I-70 & BB Hwy 1500 Block Erin Ct 1000 Block Ephraim 100 Block Lee St
Suspicious Person Disturbance Suspicious Activity Suspicious Juveniles Suspicious Vehicle Disturbance Agency Assist (BPD) Noise Complaint Alarm Parking Complaint Animals at Large Suspicious Activity Alarm Alarm Stolen Vehicle Property Damage Area Check Suspicious Vehicle Disturbance Agency Assist (BPD)
October 7, 2018 Main and I-70 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 600 Block Creek Ridge Dr 400 Block Europa Dr 600 Block Yennie St 400 Block Minter Rd 1400 Block Jaclyn 700 Block Main St 24.4 MM of I-70 October 8, 2018 1000 Block Dean Dr 200 Block Memorial Dr 5900 Block Minter 20 Block Hudson 1000 Block Ryan Rd 700 Block Main St Dillingham & Lindenwood Rock Creek & Buckner Tarsney 1600 Block Eagles Pkwy 900 Block Redbud
Directing Traffic Recovered Stolen Dog Citizen Contact Area Check Area Check Disturbance Suspicious Activity Area Check Warrant Confirmation Agency Assist (MSHP) Disturbance Prisoner Transport Check the Well Being Agency Assist (BPD) Alarm Warrant Confirmation Area Check Area Check Property Damage Alarm
600 Block Valley Ridge Cir 800 Block Green Dr 700 Block Main St 5900 Block Minter October 9, 2018 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 600 Block Buckner Tarsney 1100 Block Golfview 1200 Block Pamela Blvd 1200 Block Lonestar Ct Jefferson & Eagle Ridge 800 Block Highland 600 Block Yennie St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 1300 Block Valley Woods Ct 400 Block Russell 900 Block Cross Creek 1000 Block Ryan Rd 400 Block Coldwater Creek
Suspicious Vehicle Property Damage Warrant Confirmation Check the Well Being Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Open Door Check the Well Being Abandoned Auto Noise Complaint Motor Vehicle Accident Agency Assist (PHPD) Area Check Warrant Confirmation Warrant Confirmation Citizen Contact Disturbance Agency Assist (OGPD) Alarm Alarm Noise Complaint
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Holiday Craft Fair Set for November 10th at Faith UMC The United Methodist Women (UMW), of Faith United Methodist Church in Grain Valley will be holding a Fall Holiday Craft Fair on Saturday, November 10th, from 10:00am to 4:00pm at the church, located at 950 SW Eagles Parkway. The event is open to the public and will feature local and surrounding community craftsmen and direct sales individuals. Craft/Vendor booth fees will used to support the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), specifically the purchase of “Flood Buckets”, which provide supplies to enable victims of floods and hurricanes to begin the overwhelming tasks of
cleanup. Each 5-gallon bucket is valued at $75 and includes a number of crucial supplies for those attempting to clean up after such natural disasters, including: respirator dust masks, work gloves, heavy duty trash bags, household cleaners, scrub brushes, insect repellent, and clothesline/ clothespins. Over 30 crafters and vendors are scheduled to attend this event, including crafters selling handmade quilts, crocheted items, jewelry, toys, and cards. Direct sales vendors include Scentsy, Thirty-One Accessories, The Cocoa Exchange, Paparazzi, and Color Street.
GVPD To Host Shredding Event October 27th
The Grain Valley Police Department and Shred It are sponsoring a shredding event on October 27th for Grain Valley residents or those who work in Grain Valley (proof of residency or work address required). The event
will be held from 9:00am—Noon at City Hall. Residents are welcome to bring up to three bags or boxes for secure disposal. There is no cost for this event.
Governor Urges Businesses To Make It Their Business To Fight the Flu
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the flu costs the United States more than $87 billion annually and is responsible for the loss of close to 17 million workdays each flu season. Tens of thousands of people are hospitalized and thousands die from flu -related illnesses each year. Last year's flu season was the worst since 2009 with health officials estimating more than 700,000 people were hospitalized with flu or flu-like illness. Missouri reported 133,957 laboratory confirmed cases of flu and more than 2,000 pneumonia and influenza associated deaths. "Employers can take an active role in reducing the impact of flu by
encouraging their employees to get a flu shot," stated Governor Parson. Employers play a key role in protecting employees' health and safety while increasing productivity, reducing absenteeism, lowering healthcare costs and limiting other negative impacts of the flu. There are many steps employers can take to encourage flu vaccination including being flexible in your human resource policies to allow employees an hour or two to get their flu shot, partnering with a local provider to host a flu clinic at your worksite, or simply making sure your employees and their families know where they can get a seasonal flu shot in their community.
The flu shot is recommended for everyone six months of age and older and is the best prevention against the flu. Flu shots are especially important for young children and adults aged 65 and older. It can take up to two weeks after receiving your flu shot for flu antibodies to develop and become effective, so vaccination is encouraged before the end of October. Locally, there are a number of options to get a flu shot. The Jackson County Health Department offers flu shots during their immunization clinic held at the Grain Valley Community Center, 713 Main Street, on the 2nd Monday of each month from 1:00pm— 3:30pm. Grain Valley Price Chopper
Governor Parson receives his flu shot at Governor’’s Mansion in an effort to the Governor spread the word about the importance of getting the vaccine. Pharmacy also has the flu vaccine available, as do most primary care providers and urgent/convenient care clinics.
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
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Education & Youth
GVHS Grad Enjoying Success in First Year at MCC Blue River Kailey Boyer was a successful student and soccer player at Grain Valley High School, and her success continues as a student at Metropolitan Community College Blue River. Boyer credits the A+ program she participated in at GVHS as well as the high school soccer program as the keys to her decision to continue her education as well as her soccer career at MCC-Blue River. “The biggest deciding factor in choosing MCC Blue River was the A+ program, and the soccer scholarship I received on top of the A+ program made it a no-brainer. You can get your general education credits out the way without getting into debt and then move on to finish your four -year degree,” Boyer said. Boyer graduated in 2018, and has enjoyed the transition to college life. Boyer credits her involvement on the soccer team as one of the main reasons the transition has been so smooth. “Since soccer starts before the school year begins, it makes the first day of school much easier. You
already have made connections and have a group of friends. Our College 100 class consists of only our soccer team, so I was less nervous walking into the class,” Boyer said. Boyer is taking 15 hours this semester toward completing her Radiologic Technology degree in addition to playing on the Women’s soccer team. Radiology is a two-year degree program at MCC Blue River, so Boyer can complete the program at MCC and go right into her chosen field. Kailey Boyer, a 2018 graduate of GVHS, is in her first Upon successful year at MCC Blue River, where she is pursuing a completion of the Radiologic Technology degree and has been a major Women’’s Soccer team this season. program, students are contributor to the Women eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic graduates to use the professional Technologists certification credentials RT (R), Registered examination. Successful completion Radiologic Technologist. of this examination allows program Boyer wants to become an
GVHS Celebrates Homecoming Two new members to the Grain Valley High School Athletic Hall of Fame were inducted prior to the start of the game.
Ben Totta was selected Homecoming King and Gracelyn LaForge was selected Homecoming Queen during Homecoming festivities. Photo credit: John Overstreet Grain Valley High School celebrated Homecoming the weekend of October 12th. Ben Totta was selected Homecoming King and Gracelyn LaForge was selected Homecoming Queen.
Inductees were: Zac Hoover, GVHS Class of 2012. Hoover was recognized for his achievements in three sports in high school and his college football career at Missouri State University. Charlie Richard, GVHS Class of 1959. Richard was a 3-sport star and valedictorian at GVHS; a conference championship quarterback at William Jewell College; outstanding high school and college football coach; inducted into Baker University, Kansas Sports and National College Football Halls of Fame; coached 30 All Americans at Baker, including current Green Bay Packers Head Coach Mike McCarthy. Members of Charlie’s family accepted the honor on his behalf. Following a win by the GVHS Eagles Football against Ruskin on Friday evening, an Alumni Breakfast was held at the high school on Saturday morning, and the Homecoming Dance was held that evening. See page 11 for a full rundown on Friday night’s game against Ruskin.
ultrasound technician, which requires additional coursework. She plans to look at schools to continue her education after she completes her degree at MCC. Head Soccer Coach David Owens is impressed with Kailey’s work on and off the field as a first year student. “Kailey has scored 6 goals and added 1 assist in her freshman season so far. Her most important goal was to tie the game against St. Louis Community College in a NJCAA Region 16 conference game. She dribbled past 4 defenders before scoring, and we ended up winning 2-1 in double overtime,” Owens said. When Boyer is not in class or on the field, she cheerleads for the Mavericks Hockey team and works at Johnny’s Tavern. Boyer credits much of her success to her coaches and family. “I wouldn’t be where I am without strong coaches, and I have to thank my parents and my brothers for always supporting me, cheering me on, and helping me get to where I need to be,” Boyer said.
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Fall Tree Care—Part 1
by Chris Veach, University of Missouri Master Gardener
The cooler temps of fall are finally here, and the trees are beginning their colorful show. As we enjoy the colorful trees, let’s reviews some tips to help our trees get through the winter. For most of the summer and early fall, most of the metro has been classified as in a “Severe Drought” situation by the US Drought Monitor.* Precipitation has been far below normal since fall of 2017. Our trees are in a great deal of stress from the drought, the effect of which will be felt for two to three years to come. The various actions can help improve their chance to live a long life enhancing your property and quality of life.
Offset Drought Supplemental tree watering is greatly needed. Lawn irrigation is insufficient for tree health when precipitation is low. To help your mature trees, give them slow deep waterings every few weeks. A soaker hose or a hose left on a trickle at the drip line will accomplish this. Move the hose around the circumference of the tree. Ideal is to have moist soil 12 inches deep. You can check this with a foot-long screwdriver. It will stop penetrating when it hits dry conditions. Young or newly planted trees are most susceptible to drought stress. Their survival depends on growing new roots. To keep young trees alive, during the growing season water if rainfall is less than 1-2” per week. The goal is to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
If the upcoming winter is dry, continue to water your trees every month when the temperatures are above 40 degrees. Even without a drought, evergreen trees struggle here. Our climate is too hot for most landscape varieties. They truly never become fully established and should be irrigated as you would a newly planted tree. In winter they continue to lose moisture through their leaves and are especially vulnerable in dry winters. Do not forget to care for these.
Fall Tree Planting The cooler wetter fall is a good time to plant some trees. A fall planting allows the tree to grow roots in fall and again during early spring before leaves develop. This gives the tree a chance to lay down a good set of roots before the harsh summer weather arrives. There are many tree sales, but it is important to determine if it is a good deal. A tree that has languished on the sales floor in the summer heat with inadequate irrigation may be more of a liability. Is there a good overall form and shape? Look at the roots. Are they white as they should be or an unhealthy brown? Are roots circling the container which can lead to trouble unless altered.? Planting fall trees by the end of October is ideal to improve its chance of survival. Some deciduous trees such as dogwood, magnolias, bald cypress, willow oak, tulip tree, ginkgo, red and white oaks, sweet gum and
yellowwood have better success when planted in the spring. Conifers, which prefer warmer soils, have their best success when planted in August and September. If you want to plant these wait until soils warm in the spring. Very careful site selection, proper planting, watering and mulching will save the day for fall plantings. Mulch Proper mulching can retain soil moisture and insulate the tree helping moderate wild temperature swings. Mulch should be organic, 2 to 4 inches deep and stay 4 inches away from the trunk. Mulch heaped against the tree trunks that look like a volcano is quite harmful. Fall is a beautiful season to enjoy the outdoors. Take a walk and enjoy the beautiful trees. If you have further questions about trees, contact your local University of Missouri Extension office, call the University of Missouri Master Gardener Hotline at 816-833-TREE or email mggkc.hotline@gmail.com Chris Veach has been a University of Missouri Master Gardener Volunteer for 17 years. Her interests are trees, bees and butterflies. She is active volunteering at the Hotline, in Speakers Bureau and the Plant Sale. * This article was received prior to recent heavy rains.
The cooler wetter fall is a good time to plant some trees. A fall planting allows the tree to grow roots in fall and again during early spring before leaves develop. This gives the tree a chance to lay down a good set of roots before the harsh summer weather arrives. Photo credit: Valley News staff.
MDC Predicts Quail Season To Be Good In North and West Central Regions of State by Joe Jerek, Missouri Department of Conservation
With quail-hunting season starting Nov. 1, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) advises hunters that overall quail production was about the same as last year, but below the 10year average. MDC staff note that good hunting can be found in areas with quality habitat in north and westcentral portions of the state. Each August, MDC conservation agents record the numbers of quail they see while driving a 30-mile route – called the roadside index. A total of 110 routes are completed around the state. These numbers are then tallied and grouped by eight geographic areas of quail production – called zoogeographic regions. According to MDC, this year’s statewide average roadside index of 1.7 birds is the same as last year’s and 15% below the previous 10-year average. Regionally, the roadside index ranged from 0 in the Northern and Eastern
Ozark Border to 5.3 in the Northwest Prairie. MDC Small Game Coordinator David Hoover points out that, although statewide production was down, three regions showed counts at or above last year’s values. “Having quality habitat is the most important factor for quail production, but weather also plays a very important, and often unpredictable, role,” said Hoover. “This year’s quail production highlighted this complicated relationship between habitat and weather. The drier-than-normal conditions this summer likely benefited quail in many areas with good habitat, while being of little or no benefit to those quail in areas with marginal to poor habitat.” He added that it is no secret quail populations are much lower than they once were, but habitat conditions are also much different than 50 years ago
when quail numbers were at their peak. “Continued loss of habitat puts additional stress on the remaining quail populations, which are often isolated in islands of habitat, and thus more susceptible to the negative effects of weather and predation,” Hoover said. “In northern and west-central portions of the state, hunters should expect bird numbers at or above last year in areas with good habitat,” said Hoover. “Look for large areas of diverse native grass cover intermixed with lots of low-growing woody cover and untilled crop fields and you are likely to find a covey.” Hunting season for quail is Nov. 1 through Jan. 15, 2019. The daily bag limit is eight with a possession limit of 16. Get more information from MDC online at huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/huntingtrapping/species/quail, or from MDC’s 2018 Missouri Hunting and Trapping Regulations booklet, available where
permits are sold. For information on places to hunt quail on public lands, check out MDC’s Small Game Hunting Prospects online at huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/sites/default/ files/downloads/ SmallGameHuntingProspects.pdf.
Quail season starts Nov. 1 with numbers about the same as last year, but below the 1010-year average. MDC staff advise good hunting can be found in areas with west--central quality habitat in north and west portions of the state. Photo by MDC Staff, courtesy Department of Conservation.
Missouri
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Health & Fitness
Nutrition Can Help Lower Your Breast Cancer Risk by Tracey Shaffer, RDN, LD
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the statistics, one in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer. Although you can’t change some of your risk factors such as age, family history, and gender, there are some preventative measures you can take to help lower your risk.
A higher dietary fat intake increases your risk for breast cancer compared to a lower dietary fat intake. Not only does the amount of fat increase your risk, but also the type of fat. Saturated fats found in meat and dairy can increase your risk. A better choice is unsaturated fats found in nuts, seeds, avocados, olive and canola oils.
Stay active: Studies have shown that 5-7 hours per week of moderate exercise can decrease your risk of developing breast cancer. Even active housework counts as exercise. Avoid gaining excess weight – especially after menopause: Excess body weight may lead to elevated levels of estrogen in your body which may be involved in the development of breast cancer.
Eat more fruits and vegetables: Studies show that eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day lowers your risk of developing breast and other cancers. The phytonutrients and antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables help prevent cellular damage throughout the body. A high intake of cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, turnips and Brussels sprouts can lower your risk even further.
Lower your fat intake and choose the right fats:
Limit alcohol: Although moderate alcohol
intake is not unhealthy, more than one drink per day for women has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Soy: The subject of soy and breast cancer is still controversial. Some studies suggest that consumption of soy in the pre-teen years may have a protective effect. However, some doctors may instruct patients to avoid soy altogether, especially if they have had breast cancer or are at high risk to develop it. It is important to talk to your physician and follow their advice regarding soy. Remember - monthly breast exams and annual mammograms are important for early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. 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.
Ham and Bean Soup Serves 10 (1 cup each)
All you need: 3 (15 ounces each) cans Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained 1 pound red potatoes, peeled and diced 1 small onion, diced 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped 2 stalks celery, diced 1 (32 ounce) container low sodium chicken stock 2 bay leaves 1 (8 ounce) ham steak, cubed salt and pepper, to taste All you do: Place beans, potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, chicken stock and bay leaves in a 6-quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours. Add ham, cover and cook on LOW for an additional hour. Remove bay leaves. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Daily nutritional values: 40% vitamin A 25% vitamin C 8% calcium 8% iron
Nutrition information per serving: Calories: 190 Carbohydrate: 35g Cholesterol: 10mg Dietary Fiber: 8g Fat: 2g Protein: 12g Saturated Fat: 0g Sodium: 870mg Sugar: 2g Trans fats: 0g
Business News Partner Spotlight: Vintage Chic Scents Kirby Welsh founded Vintage Chic Scents (VCS), a scented wax business, in 2014, drawing inspiration from classic movies and family traditions (food is a popular love language in her family). Originally, Kirby operated VCS by herself out of the basement of her home. Today, VCS employs a team of six to pour one and a half tons of wax every month. VCS moved to its current location, 518 S. Main Street, in January of this year. VCS's storefront, in which customers can buy select wax and body care products, opens Wednesday, October 31st from 10:00am- 3:00pm. The storefront's days and hours of operation will be limited to Wednesdays 10:00 am3:00 pm and select Saturdays from 9:00am-Noon (look for more info on
their Facebook page and on their storefront sign). There is definitely potential for more store availability in the future! The springboard for Kirby's business was her highly successful YouTube channel (she has more than 10,000 subscribers) in which she reviewed scented wax as well as bath and body products. After versing herself in wax culture, Kirby decided to launch her own business, devoting a number of months to experimenting with different waxes and oils before selling to the public. Her husband, Hugh, likened her to a mad scientist during this period. Prior to founding VCS, Kirby was a middle school teacher in the Grain Valley School District, teaching English and theater.
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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.
Learn more about the Partnership at www.growgrainvalley.org
Upcoming Partnership Events
Sponsored advertisement
Partnership Celebrates Opening of Sandra Dee’s with Ribbon Cutting The Grain Valley Partnership welcomed Sandra Dee’s, a home décor and gift store, located at 1203 C Buckner Tarsney Road, to Grain Valley during a ribbon cutting celebration on October 15th. Sandra Dee’s is the life long dream of owner Sandra Shaddox, who decided to open the store after a career in insurance. The name of her shop comes from her nickname, and her artistic touches can be found throughout the shop. Sandra’s work will be featured in the shop, along with home décor and gift items from local artists. The store also features clothing, furniture, and a selection of natural wax melts and warmers. Natural bath and body products from Botanicals by Anita, a St. Louis based company, add to the wonderful scents that greet you as you enter the store. Sandra is mindful of her customers’ busy schedules and plans to stay open late in the evenings for those last minute shopping needs. Sandra Dee’s can be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ sandradeesgifts. Photo credit: Grain Valley Partnership
Dee’’s, with Sandra Shaddox celebrated the opening of her store, Sandra Dee her family and fellow members of the Grain Valley Partnership. The store, located at 1203 C Buckner Tarsney Road, opened October 15th.
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Community Voices
Looking Back
Musings from the Middle
The Urge to Purge
The Honor Roll
by Marcia Napier Grain Valley Historical Society
The Honor Roll board above stood on Main Street, just south of Walnut by the old Christian Church in the 1950’s. As a child, I remember stopping to read the names to see how many of them I actually knew. What I didn’t remember was that among the 146 names on the big memorial sign, only two were women. Dorothy Becker was a familiar name to me. I remembered my parents talking about Mrs. Becker running the boarding house at Sni-ABar. She was the widow of Henry Becker, and I found the names of all three of their children in Grain Valley’s second yearbook, the 1938 edition of The Student. This early volume (a gift to the Historical Society from Barbara Wilkinson, whose father was a former principal) listed the names of Grain Valley’s alumni since 1904. George Becker was in the class of 1934; Dorothy was a part of the class of 1936, and Loubelle graduated in 1937. Further research revealed that by 1940, Mrs. Becker and her two daughters were living in Santa Rosa, California. Both had graduated from Trinity Lutheran School of Nursing in Kansas City and both went on to serve in the U. S. Army as a first lieutenant nurse during World War II. Dorothy served with the medical corps in Germany. I could not find where Loubelle was stationed. I did learn that both sisters were active in the American Legion and the
by Cathy Allie
Veterans of Foreign Wars. Although Dorothy returned to Blue Springs in 1976, Loubelle lived in Arizona. Neither sister ever returned to Grain Valley. As for George Becker, his name also appeared on the Honor Board, along with 143 other men who left our small midwestern town to serve their country in World War II. Six did not return.
Pictured: Dorothy and Loubelle Becker, about 1950. Around Memorial Day, I visited the Grain Valley Cemetery and a couple of other area cemeteries. I found several graves bearing the names of men on our Honor Roll: community leaders, businessmen, farmers, teachers, factory workers, and even a doctor or two. An American ag marked each grave. I hope it wasn’t too late to thank them for their service.
The Grain Valley Historical Society Museum, located at 510 Main Street, 10am— is open Wednesdays from 10am —3pm and by appointment. Visit the Society’’s website, www.grainvalleyhistory.com, and follow Historical Society the Society on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (@grainvalleyhistory).
I went through a period of time where I carefully sorted and labeled items for garage sales and give-aways, purposefully showed off organized drawers and closets, even used my Pinterest account to create a No Junk board with purging tips. I prided myself on how well I was keeping up with my “stuff” and even bragged about it to friends. Sure, I had a few stashes of things that still needed a second look—a third garage with a couple of extra lamps, some table cloths that hadn’t been used in years, five denim shirts in various hues, an additional set of dishes for the RV I really want but will likely never own, bags of pictures I intended to place on scrapbook pagesbut it was under control. It was a short-lived time before my fraud was exposed. This is the story of the day I renewed my urge to purge. My friend and her husband were downsizing, a move she shared at lunch one day. “Let me help you,” I said. “I am really good at sorting and helping you decide what to keep and what to get rid of.” She was enthusiastic to have me come by and begin the process, so I headed over with my critical eyes practically popping out of my head. When I got there, she had made muffins and mimosas, but I told her we didn’t really have time. “I only have a few hours,” I said. “And you have all those bedrooms and a basement? We better get started.” She supposed I was right and said sheepishly, “Let’s start in my office. It’s my biggest nightmare.” I could hardly contain my excitement to toss nonworking pens, dried up highlighters, mangled paperclips, nearly empty pads of paper. But my excitement was shortlived. My first clue that I had underestimated was her labeled binders, containing only five years of bank statements. Another set housed important grown up home owner papers like warranties and repair work organized by room of the house. I pulled open a drawer on the pretense of finding a pen to make our list, only to find neat rows of pens and pencils, all of which had lead and caps, cozily nestled in next to adorable containers of rubber bands and clips. In a basket on the desk, I noticed what looked like random stationary and cards. Nope. She had purchased and addressed all the family cards for holidays and birthdays for the year. Each of them already had a Forever stamp in the corner. Sheesh. Her doorbell rang at the same time my heart was sinking, and as she went to
answer it, I decided to move on. “Hey, I will just start on your hall closet. Take your time,” I shouted with forced cheerfulness. The door to the closet was ajar, and I wrongly assumed it was just like mine—where if you lean on it just right you can possibly close it until something shifts and jars it open. But no. Neatly folded pillow case and sheet sets, organized by color were on shelf one, sitting atop their towel counterparts on shelf two. I leaned in close to read the labels she had created: Single sheets, Full/Queen sheets, King sheets, hand towels, bath towels. Incredible. Not a single poorly folded washcloth or table runner occupied any space. I glanced at the bottom of the closet toward a large box which took up the whole area under the shelves and suddenly had renewed hope. Aha! Here is her junk stash, I chuckled. I peered inside, ready to be suitably mortified. In beautifully wrapped paper, all labeled with her kid’s names, were Christmas presents, organized by size. My friend appeared just then and said, “EEK! You have found my mess. Have to hide them in a place where the kids would never see them, because trust me, they aren’t folding sheets or towels, right?” A tour of her personal closet showed five t-shirts, hung by color, shoes organized by season, blouses with crisp seams, a few dresses and jeans and pants folded on shelves. Where were the wild impulse purchases? The purse that even with a ripped handle that was just too pretty to throw away? A gypsy like skirt which only looks good in the Mama Mia wardrobe room for the remake? A ratty bathrobe? Gardening tennis shoes with grass stains? Flip flops with duct tape on the bottom to hold in the peg that blew out? For spite, I suggested she had too many pairs of jeans. “What about casual Fridays at work?” she said. “I hate to always wear the same ones!” I agreed she should keep them all-all 3 that is (the suggestion coming from the woman who has three of the same color in different lengths, plus about 8 more). I won’t take you on a tour of her whole house, but let’s just say it was a study in being studied. Pastas arranged by noodle length in clear plastic containers. Ten MATCHING plates and saucers and cups all in one cabinet together. Even her collectible plastic cups were controlled, no ratty edges and faded designs like the 50 or so residing in my kitchen cabinet. Not one
see MUSINGS on page 9
Page 9
MUSINGS continued from page 8 single empty waffle box or frozen pea bag with a half serving in her whole freezer! Holiday decorations were arranged chronologically in totes corresponding to the colors of the season. Books arranged by genre—no, I am not kidding. Just as I was about to give up, confess that maybe I would have to crown her the New Queen of Neat, she opened the bottom of her built in book shelves, and quickly tried to close it, but there it was. The motherlode. Coasters! Literally hundreds of coasters. “It all started because my kids just kept leaving rings on tables from their
drinks,” she confessed in hushed tones. “So I bought a couple sets to put on coffee tables. Then people started giving them to me. Then home stores started carrying really cute ones. I guess I just didn’t know where to stop.” With great seriousness we worked our way through all the sets of coasters. Like a Hoarder’s show interviewer, I peered into her eyes and said, “Are these associated with any special event in your life you want to commemorate? If I broke into your house tomorrow and stole these would you miss them? Is the person who gifted you these dead yet?”
No, she sighed, this set was a whim purchase from Target—who else totally gets that? This set was purchased when she had dreams of opening a bed and breakfast at the lake. This set was a Mother’s Day gift—ahhhhh. Finally a keeper. After about an hour’s work, we had pared her collection down to about five sets, just enough to still feel like a collection, and yet few enough to not be embarrassed. Like the expert I had pretended to be, I helped her label the boxes with Donate and Sell. We looked at our work with pride and decided we would break now for those muffins and mimosas. We
headed into the kitchen, and she smiled at me as she poured our drinks. Barely containing my laughter, I asked her for a coaster on which to set my drink. I was able to duck just in time so the one she threw at me narrowly missed. My friend and her husband recently celebrated their anniversary by hosting a little gathering at their new place. I stopped at our favorite store and purchased some initial monogram coasters for our gift. It was the least I could do.
Sports
Page 11
Eagles Seize Momentum in Win Over Ruskin by John Unrein
The Grain Valley Eagles were able to seize momentum in the second half of their football game against Ruskin, securing a 51-14 victory on homecoming. “Turnovers and dropped passes were an issue as we went into halftime. We challenged the kids to execute better as well as showing them an advantage we saw of how they aligned to trips to the weak
Ethan Grasher breaks free on a run. Photo credit: John Overstreet
side that we wanted to attack. The kids responded. We need to start more games like we did the second half,” Head Coach David Allie said. Grain Valley went into halftime with a narrow 17-14 lead. Big plays
offensively in the first half by the Eagles included a 36-yard run off tackle by Mason Guhse for a touchdown with 8:00 left in the first quarter. This was followed by a two -point conversion run by Bennett Disco out of the Eagles “Heavy Chevy” goal line package. Other first half scoring included a safety against Ruskin forced by Grain Valley’s defense and a 14-yard touchdown run by Tanner Bailon on an inside reverse off toss sweep action with 2:38 left in the second quarter. The Eagles defense also applied consistent pressure to Ruskin’s quarterback during the first half, including a sack by Mitchel Alexander. Ruskin answered with scoring of their own during the first half with an 88-yard touchdown run on a quarterback draw by Carlo Terrell, with 11:46 to go in the second quarter. Ruskin would also go on to add a 26-yard fade pass from Terrell to wide receiver Teron White with 1:00 to go in the second quarter. This would be the only scoring allowed by Grain Valley’s defense the rest of the game. The Eagles took control of the reigns for themselves early in the 2nd half. Grain Valley would move the ball effectively and go on to put up 34 unanswered points. Quarterback Cole Keller, running back Ethan Grasher, and the defense, via an interception return for a touchdown each contributed to scoring. “In the second half we started attacking their edges. Trap worked
The Eagles took control of the reigns for themselves early in the 2nd half. Grain Valley would move the ball effectively and go on to put up 34 unanswered points. Quarterback Cole Keller (pictured above), running back Ethan Grasher, and the defense, via interception return for touchdown each contributed to scoring. Photo credit: John Overstreet
well for us. So did speed option as we adjusted to what they were giving us. Cole lopes with his gate because of his height, but he’s fast. He’s a leader,” Allie said. The defense closed the door hard on their opponent in the second half as well. “Our defense held down their offense. That allowed us to be aggressive with our play calling. Giving us the ball back with the turnovers they created is obviously huge, and it was impressive considering some of the situations we put them in during the first half with turnovers. The offense and defense fed off each other in the second half and that’s what we have to continue to do,” Allie said. Grain Valley will host Raytown South next Friday, October 19 in a
conference game matchup. “We want to carry some momentum into districts. You don’t necessarily want to say it this way, but the first nine games are practice for game ten and you want to continue past that. They (Raytown South) have a pretty good quarterback who’s big and athletic from what we’ve seen of them on film and I anticipate we’ll have our work cut out for us. We have to continue to stop making mistakes on our end,” Allie said. The outcome of week nine will contribute to MSHSAA’s (Missouri State High School Activities Association) computer formula they use to determine week ten matchups in Missouri Class 4, District 7 playoff football.
THE WEEK AHEAD Boys Varsity Soccer October 22, 2018 6:30pm vs. Belton @ GVHS Volleyball: Varsity District Tournament October 24, 2018 Time TBA @ Rock Bridge High School Boys Varsity Soccer October 25, 2018 6:30pm vs. Smithville @ GVHS
Boys Swimming: Varsity Conference Championship Meet October 25, 2018 6:30pm vs. Lees Summit @ Lees Summit Aquatic Center Boys Swimming: Varsity Conference Championship Meet October 26, 2018 4:00pm vs. Lees Summit @ Lees Summit Aquatic Center Cross Country Sectionals October 27, 2018 TBA
Community Calendar October 24, 2018 KidzConnection Program 6:00pm—8:00pm Faith United Methodist Church Join Faith United Methodist Church each Wednesday Night for our mid week KidzConnection program for kids Kindergarten thru 5th Grade. Sign up any Wednesday night or on our website at http:// www.valleyfaith.church/faith-kids/ October 20, 2018 Household Hazardous Waste Mobile Collection Event 8:00am—Noon Jackson County Public Works 34900 E Old US Hwy 40, Oak Grove October 20, 2018 Annual Chili Supper and Auction Fundraiser 4:00pm—7:00pm South Middle School, 901 E Ryan Road Bring the family and join us for chili, soup, and desserts. $7 for adults and $3.00 for children 12 and under. Guests may also participate in the silent auction. All proceeds from the event support the efforts of the Grain Valley Assistance Council to provide a food pantry, clothes closet, and other important resources to families in need in our community. October 22, 2018 Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall October 24, 2018 Faith UMC Trunk or Treat 6:00pm—8:00pm Faith UMC, 1950 SW Eagles Pkwy. Trunk or Treat begins at 6:00pm Free kettle corn, a bounce house, pumpkin patch, maze, hayride, and an outdoor screening of It’s the Great
Pumpkin Charlie Brown begins at 7pm. October 2525-26, 2018 No School—Grain Valley Schools October 26, 2018 Trail or Treat 6:30pm—8:30pm Butterfly Trail, Grain Valley Trail or Treat is fun for the whole family! Kids dress in costume and travel Butterfly Trail to get treats from more than 30 local businesses, churches, and organizations. FREE event.
October 27, 2018 On the Move 5K Against Hunger William Bryant Elementary 8:00am 1101 SE Sunnyside School Rd Blue Springs, MO https://runsignup.com/ OntheMoveAgainstHunger October 27, 2018 Shredding Event at City Hall 9:00am—Noon Shredding event available only to Grain Valley residents or those who work in Grain Valley (proof of residency or work address required). Bring up to three bags or boxes for secure disposal. Event sponsored by Shred It and brought to you by the Grain Valley Police Department. October 27, 2018 National Drug Take Back Day 10:00am—2:00pm City Hall Parking Lot, 711 Main Street All are welcome to this free event to safely dispose of prescription and over the counter medications No syringes will be accepted. October 27, 2018 1st Annual Chili Cook Off Benefiting Grain Valley Assistance Council Begins at 11:00am Event contact: Maeghan Timothy, 816-443-5485 or omgrainvalleychiro@gmail.com. November 6, 2018 Election Day Polls are open 6:00am –7:00pm on election day. Visit https://www.jcebmo.org/ for ballot information and to verify polling place. November 6, 2018 No School—Grain Valley Schools November 7, 2018 Senior Citizens Luncheon 11:30am—1:00pm Grain Valley Community Center Recommended $3 donation.
Please RSVP by calling 816-8476293. Add your community event online at www.grainvalleynews.com.
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