Valley News www.grainvalleynews.com
October 25, 2018
Vol. 1, No. 19
FREE
School Resource Officers Build Relationship Between Students, Police Having an interaction with the police as an adult can often be less than a pleasant experience, whether it is receiving a speeding ticket, filing a report following a fender bender, or something more serious. These interactions combined with negative news coverage of law enforcement can affect the relationship between police and the public. Not so consequently, adult perceptions about the police often affect students’ perceptions as well. Valley News recently sat down with Grain Valley’s school resource officers to learn more about their work and
how they endeavor daily to build bridges between students and police. Officer Steven Thompson, the school resource officer for Sni-A-Bar Elementary, Sni Valley Academy, and Grain Valley High School, sees his role as an opportunity to counter the sometimes negative perception of law enforcement. “There is such a stigma with law enforcement at the moment. The students and parents get to know us on a personal level. We’re there to counsel, mentor, and to provide additional support to students who need extra help,” Thompson said.
A school resource officer (SRO), by federal definition, is a career law enforcement officer with sworn authority who is deployed by an employing police department or agency in a community-oriented policing assignment to work in collaboration with one or more schools. Officers are selected carefully for these roles and receive additional training. The Grain Valley Police Department provides three school resource officers for Grain Valley Schools. According to the National Association of School Resource Officers,
the goals of SRO programs include providing safe learning environments in schools, providing valuable resources to school staff members, fostering positive relationships with youth, developing strategies to resolve problems affecting youth, and protecting all students, so that they can reach their fullest potentials. Officer Shawnda Hayes-Dunnell, who serves South Middle School and Stony Point Elementary, explains their primary roles are to ensure the safety of the school grounds and the staff and students inside the school. see SRO on page 4
Hayes--Dunnell, and Officer Steven Thompson serve as School Resource Officers for Grain Valley Schools. Left to Right: Officer Danny Iiams, Officer Shawnda Hayes Photo credit: Captain Jeff Palecek, Grain Valley Police Department
Good News
GVPD will host a Prescription Drug Take Back Event on Saturday, October 27th from 10:00am—2:00pm. This is an opportunity for anyone to bring unwanted prescription and overthe-counter medications to Grain Valley Police Department personnel for proper
disposal. NO SYRINGES ACCEPTED. Pills may be removed from bottles and placed in unmarked plastic bags. This is a FREE event. The Take Back will take place in Grain Valley City Hall's parking lot.
ON THE BALLOT
Valley News will profile candidates running for state representative for the 32nd District in next week’s edition as well as provide a sample ballot for review. To verify your voter registration
information and polling location, and to view the sample ballot for the November 6th election, visit the Jackson County Board of Election Commissioners website at https://www.jcebmo.org/.
Local News
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Flu Shot Remains the Most Effective Option to Prevent the Flu Local health officials are urging all area residents six months of age and older to get vaccinated against influenza (flu) early this flu season. Vaccination is particularly important for people who are at high risk for serious complications from flu, including young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart and lung disease, and people 65 years and older. “Residents should contact their healthcare provider or visit their local health department to get a flu shot,” said Jackson County Health Department Director Bridgette Shaffer. “A flu shot is still the safest and most effective way to protect against the flu virus. Now is the best time to get the flu shot and be protected through the entire flu season,
which typically runs through May.” Last flu season, more than 900,000 people were hospitalized, and more than 80,000 people died from the flu nationally. Flu vaccination has been shown to reduce the risk of flu illness, and a growing body of evidence supports that vaccination also reduces the risk of serious flu outcomes that can result in hospitalizations and even death. A recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study on flu vaccines revealed a dramatic decline in the risk of flu-associated deaths by 51 percent among children with underlying high-risk medical conditions and by 65 percent among healthy children. “The flu season has begun. As of October 23rd, we have received reports of 101 flu cases including one death across
the metro,” said Director Shaffer. “We have an opportunity to strengthen our community’s immunity to flu while at the same time protecting ourselves and loved ones who are most vulnerable to the flu.” Additional Flu Precautions In addition to your annual flu vaccine, residents can take the following precautions to reduce the spread of and lessen the risk of catching the flu this season: Try to avoid close contact with those experiencing flu-like symptoms. While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them. If you are sick with flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours
after your fever is gone. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. After using a tissue, throw it in the trash and wash your hands. Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like flu. Take flu antiviral medications if your doctor prescribes them.
Fall Muster This Weekend at Fort Osage Fort Osage National Historic Landmark will come alive during the 32nd Annual Fall Muster on October 27th and 28th, presented by Jackson County Parks + Rec and the 1st U.S. Infantry Living History Organization. More than 40 reenactors and living
historians will recreate a full day of activity from more than 200 years ago at the Fort. Experiences include cannon firing, musket drill and firing, mounting of the guard and the issuing of the whiskey ration. This annual event is nationally
recognized as one of the most authentic interpretations of the period and draws participants from across the Midwest because of its historic and scenic location. The event will be held from 9:00am – 4:30pm on Saturday, October 27th and
Sunday, October 28th. Adults are $8; Seniors 62 and older are $4; Youth ages 5-13 are $4; and children age 4 and under are free. Fort Osage is located at 107 Osage Street, Sibley. For additional information, visit www.makeyourdayhere.com/fortosage.
Police Blotter
The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police Department daily calls for service log for the week of October 10-16, 2018.
October 10, 2018 1500 Block Rust Rd 900 Block Shorthorn Dr 200 Block Main St 1400 Block Mary Ct 700 Block Lakeview 700 Block Main St 100 Block Woodbury 100 Block Walnut 700 Block SW Crestview Cir October 11, 2018 800 Block Ridgeview 1200 Block Phelps Dr 1300 Block Stoneybrooke North City Limits 1300 Block Cherry 700 Block Main St
Burglary Runaway Juvenile Citizen Contact Alarm Agency Assist (DFS) Citizen Contact Suspicious Vehicle Motor Vehicle Accident Suspicious Activity
Parking Complaint Assault Check the Well Being Agency Assist (Buckner PD) Prisoner Pickup and Transport Citizen Contact
October 12, 2018 1300 Block Stone Brook Dr 900 Block Shorthorn Dr 500 Block Eagles Pkwy 1100 Block Golfview Broadway & Cross Creek 1100 Block Scenic 1200 Block Phelps Dr 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 1200 Blk Buckner Tarsney Rd 700 Block Main St 900 Block Sycamore Ct 700 Block Main St 1300 Stoney Brook Dr Main St & Walnut
Citizen Contact Runaway Juvenile Harassment Area Check Area Check Suspicious Vehicle Stand by to Prevent Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Alarm Motor Vehicle Accident Stealing Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Found Property
October 13, 2018 500 Block Eagles Pkwy 600 Block Yennie 600 Block Yennie 700 Block Main St
911 Hangup Property Damage Agency Assist (CJC) Citizen Contact
700 Block Main St 900 Block Redbud 1200 Block Long Dr 600 Block Whitney Ct 900 Block Ryan Rd 700 Block Parr Dr 1000 Block Scenic Dr
Suspicious Person Suspicious Vehicle 911 Hangup Animal At Large Alarm Alarm Disturbance
200 Block Hannah Ct 1100 Block McQuerry 100 Block Eagles Pkwy 700 Block Main St 300 Block Walnut 1200 Block Scenic Dr 300 Block Coldwater Creek
Alarm Suspicious Activity Leaving the Scene of Accident Stealing Follow Up Report Check the Well Being Truance Check
October 14, 2018 Main St & I-70 Eagle Ridge & KC Industrial 1200 Block Pamela Blvd 100 Block Lee St 100 Block Harris St 400 Block Joseph Ln 1100 Block Willow Dr 700 Block Main St
Suspicious Activity Agency Assist (BSPD) Property Damage Agency Assist (BPD) Stealing Check the Well Being Property Damage Warrant Confirmation
October 16, 2018 1100 Block McQuerry 100 Block Royer 700 Block Main St 800 Block Harvest 1300 Block NE Jaclyn Dr 100 Block 40 Hwy
Suspicious Person Funeral Escort Fingerprints Citizen Contact Nuisance Animal 911 Hangup
October 15, 2018 1300 Cherry St 1600 Block Eagles Ridge Dr
Prisoner Pickup and Transport Abandonded Auto
Additional calls this week: Suicidal subject: 5 Order of Protection: 1
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Grain Valley Resident Judge Trout to Retire After 31 Years On Bench
Judge Robert L. Trout will retire October 31st after 31 years with the Jackson County Circuit Court.
Grain Valley resident Judge Robert L. Trout, 69, will retire on October 31, 2018 after serving as an associate circuit judge for 31 years. He was appointed to Division 32 in Independence by Governor John Ashcroft in 1987. Trout said what he liked the most about serving as a judge was “the challenge of making the right decision.” He especially liked hearing small claims cases due to the variety of issues and disputes. And, he enjoyed talking with people, many of whom represented themselves. “I would just try and explain to them if they were not right, why that was,” Trout said. “I would explain what the law says.” Presiding Judge John M. Torrence said, “Judge Trout dedicated 31 years of his life to our Court. He did so in an exemplary manner and enjoyed the highest level of respect and appreciation amongst the members of the bar. I
speak from personal experience as a practicing lawyer when I say that you were always happy to have a case assigned to Division 32. Judge Trout called them straight and he called them fairly. His retirement leaves a hole in the heart and soul of our Court. We wish him the best as he enjoys the next chapter of his life.” Trout said the most significant change in the judicial system during his tenure was the increased use of technology. When he was first appointed, the clerks were using IBM selectric typewriters to create the dockets. They would bring large stacks of paper traffic tickets into the courtroom. Trout recalls a conversation he had with retiring Judge James Horn, whose place Trout was taking in Division 32. “He told me at that time,” Trout said chuckling, “they are trying to get you to go to computers. Don’t do it. It will
never work.” Since then, Missouri’s judicial system has not only gone to computers, but also implemented electronic filing. Case information is available on-line through Missouri Case.net. Trout graduated from William Jewell College with a bachelor’s degree in 1971. He served as a police officer for two years in Liberty, Missouri, before attending law school. He obtained his J.D. degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 1975. Prior to his appointment to the Jackson County Circuit Court, he practiced law in Blue Springs and Odessa, and served as a municipal judge for the City of Lone Jack from 1980 to 1987. “I am proud to have been a part of this Court, a great court with great judges and a great staff,” Trout said.
Grain Valley Marching Eagles Place 3rd at UCM Competition
The Grain Valley Marching Eagles placed 3rd overall out of 32 bands competing at the University of Central Missouri Festival of Champions last weekend. The band travels next to St. Louis for the Bands of America competition. Photo credit: Bridget Brill
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
SRO continued from page 1 “Officers regularly patrol school grounds by vehicle as well as walking the perimeter of the school. We are reinforcing in the mind of the staff and students that we are easily identified and there to help. Our presence is the first step of intervention,” HayesDunnell said. Stony Point Principal Scott Schmitt emphasized the importance of the presence of SROs in terms of school safety and the role they can play in guiding students toward positive behaviors. “SRO’s presence during school events is huge. It helps portray the message that school safety comes first. Another role they play is to help educate when they students make a mistake. Many times, the SRO will talk with the student and 'teach' them what is correct and possible consequences if their behavior doesn't change. Stony Point truly values their partnership,” Schmitt said. One of the biggest misconceptions about the role of SROs is related to discipline. School administration is responsible for discipline within their buildings. However, SROs are on site to provide resources to building staff and help develop strategies to resolve problems affecting youth inside and outside of school. “We are not disciplinarians. That is what the school administration is there to manage. The last thing we want to do is put a student in the criminal justice system. If there’s a way we can intervene to help prevent an issue before we have to deal with it as a police issue, we’re on board with that,” Hayes-Dunnell said. SROs do take an active role in mentoring students to make the right choices when it comes to their education. This work can range from working along with administrators to help students change their behavior to picking up truant students and transporting them to school. “Both Officer Hayes-Dunnell and Officer Thompson have gone out to students’ homes this week to pick up students and take them to school, and they’ve had the opportunity to have conversations with them about the importance of school,” Police Officer and fellow SRO Danny Iiams said.
The SROs believe these informal opportunities to mentor students are just as vital as the formal educational opportunities they provide. SROs are also active in educating students from the elementary level through high school. At the elementary level, Officer Iiams leads the district’s D.A.R.E. program. Hayes-Dunnell will begin a drug education program at South Middle School in 2019 to help students identify different types of drugs and learning strategies to avoid peer pressure and make healthy choices. Once students enter high school, Thompson works with students in several formal and informal ways to help them navigate the complex waters of driving, working, dating, and preparing for life after high school. Outside of the classroom, the police department utilizes programs such as the Missouri Highway Patrol’s Seat Belt Convincer and the mock accident presentation held prior to prom to drive home the importance of driver safety. In the wake of recent school shootings, school safety is often at the top of mind for parents. SROs work with the district in terms of preparation for such events in several ways. The district requested the help of the police department when investigating the best options for door locks. Iiams shipped in 8 different options for the school to consider, and the district selected the highest rated door lock, which is manufactured in Michigan, to secure classrooms and office spaces. “Every office door and every classroom in each school has a secondary lock which can be used in such an event,” Iiams said. Officers also take an active role in assisting with active shooter training and school safety related professional development for teachers and staff. They can also serve as a resource for teachers who can send an email or talk with an SRO about an individual question they have. ‘The district has really taken the lead on school safety,” Hayes-Dunnell said. “We recently attended a meeting on how to de-escalate parents or other
visitors who may be on edge, and how to recognize signs that something or someone may be out of place. The schools and staff understand the importance of school safety training and that it is not just for teachers, but for everyone who is in the building.” Safety and education are vital parts of the job, but the ability to create a positive relationship between students and officers is equally important. “I know that most people believe the main reason to have SROs in schools is if something catastrophic happens. However, it is the day to day relationships they build with the students which is the primary benefit,” Dr. Jeremy Plowman, Grain Valley High School Principal, said. “I have a meeting later today with a student, her grandparent, and school administrators, to serve as a mediator and help the student and her family address some issues affecting her school and home life. Many of these meetings have nothing to do with criminal behavior, but it’s about building those relationships and addressing issues before they become a problem,” Iiams said. SROs take advantage of opportunities outside the school day to interact with students as well. “We are paid to cover football and basketball games to ensure everyone’s safety, but it’s also another way to reach out to students. There are a number of times we attend student events, games, plays, concerts, etc., that we are not paid to cover. It’s great to see a student in the hallway and say ‘Hey, I was at your game last night and saw that play – you were really good.’ And they’ll respond – ‘you were there?’. It’s just another way we build these relationships,” Iiams said. “They’re all my kids. I only have two at home, but I have 6,000 kids I’ve worked with as an SRO to care about. If our work reaches at least one student and changes the way they behave and changes the route of their life, then we’ve done what we’re supposed to do,” Iiams said. All of the officers agreed that one of the biggest challenges they face is inattentive or enabling parents. The officers explain they see similar behavior issues from students whose
parents who are lax in setting limits and unable to tell their children ‘no’ as they do from students of inattentive parents. “This job isn’t for every officer. You sometimes have to care more than the parents do. An SRO is really a social worker with a gun,” Iiams said regarding encouraging parents to prepare their children. Iiam’s counterpart agrees. “Officer Iiams is right in referring to us as social workers with guns. We’re case managing their lives to a certain degree. Follow ups, interventions, accessing external resources are all a part of the job,” Hayes-Dunnell said. Neighbors and other caring individuals are key to the process as well. Concerns can and should be raised directly to the parents if possible, through neighborhood watch social media pages, or to the police. “Just care. Even if they’re not your kids,” Iiams said. The SROs also encourage parents to reach out to them if they are facing an issue they do not know how to handle. “It’s OK to say you need help,” HayesDunnell said. Regardless of the challenges, the SROs take seriously their ability to change the perception of law enforcement while ensuring student safety. “There are some officers who are really good and some officers who have done some things that are not so good. But hopefully we can instill in students, regardless of whether they grow up and stay in Grain Valley or move away, that the majority of officers do the job for the right reasons and the right way,” Iiams said. Hayes-Dunnell agrees. “Students get to see us in a different way. When you’re sitting down in the cafeteria together having lunch, or helping students off the bus in the morning, they get a different perspective. You’re changing the whole paradigm,” she said. “We’re living in an interesting time in how society views law enforcement. But the students I’m dealing with, they understand that I’m there to protect them, to be a guide, and serve as a resource. It’s been a pleasure walking into that environment every day.”
District Receiving Feedback From Parents on Boundary Issue Grain Valley School District is currently seeking community input regarding proposed elementary school boundary changes announced earlier this month. The community input period runs through October 31st and is available under the FOR FAMILIES tab at GrainValleySchools.org.
The Steering Committee will meet again on November 13th at 6:00pm at North Middle School, after the close of the community input period, to review the proposed changes and other possible options before endorsing a final proposal for review by the School Board. This meeting is open to the
public. A final proposal could be presented to the School Board as soon as their monthly business meeting on November 15th at 6:00pm in the library at North Middle School. This meeting is open to the public. The soonest the School Board would
approve any changes to the elementary school boundaries is December 6th at 6:00pm at a board workshop tentatively scheduled for the library at North Middle School. This meeting is open to the public.
Business News Dept. of Economic Development Releases September Jobs Report Nonfarm payroll employment in Missouri increased by 3,300 jobs in September, on a seasonally adjusted basis. With an upward revision of 1,800 in the August data, nonfarm payrolls have grown by 6,100 jobs since July. In September, employment grew in durable goods manufacturing (+2,200); construction (+1,300); transportation, warehousing, and utilities (+1,200); and accommodation and food services (+1,200). September’s job gains helped push the over-the-year growth figure up to 39,300 for September, an increase of 1.4 percent from year-earlier employment. Over-the-year job growth was noted in most reported industries:
professional and business services (+11,500) health care and social assistance (+9,800)
durable goods manufacturing (+6,200) accommodation and food services (+4,500) financial activities (+2,300)
At 3.2 percent, Missouri’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate is now 0.4 points lower than it was a year ago and is at its lowest level since January 2000, when the rate was 3.1 percent. The state’s rate is half a percentage point lower than the comparable U.S. rate and has been lower than the national rate for 41 consecutive months. Missouri’s not-seasonally-adjusted rate for September was 2.6 percent; the comparable U.S. figure was 3.6 percent.
GVPD To Host Shredding Event Saturday, October 27th The Grain Valley Police Department and Shred It are sponsoring a shredding event on Saturday, 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.
MCPL Offers Free Program to Sharpen Microsoft Word Skills The Mid-Continent Public Library Grain Valley Branch is hosting a free program for those wanting to sharpen their Microsoft Word skills. Intermediate Word will be offered on November 8th from 6:30pm—7:30pm at the library branch, located at 101 SW Eagles Parkway. Attendees will sharpen document
creation skills with several great features of Microsoft Word. It is recommended that attendees have basic Word skills. Registration is required for this free event. Visit https://www.mymcpl.org/ events/36969/intermediate-wordr to register.
SilverSilver-Haired Legislature Sets 2019 Priorities Delegates to the Silver-Haired Legislature representing older adults traveled to Jefferson City last week to choose their top priorities for 2019 and formulate plans to advocate for senior issues during the upcoming Missouri General Assembly session. The Silver Haired Legislature (SHL), a model legislature composed of elected representatives from throughout Missouri, holds a three-day conference at the capitol each October. This year marked the 45th Annual Conference, with 103 delegates in attendance. The delegates chose these issues as
their top five priorities for the 2019 legislative session: Establish the Senior Services Growth and Development program. Revise MoRx, Missouri’s State Pharmacy Assistance Program. Increase funding for homedelivered meals and congregate meals. Make Missouri’s income tax brackets more progressive. Approve over-the-counter sale/use of industrial hemp oil as a supplement.
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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
Community Voices
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Musings from the Middle
Halloween Memories by Cathy Allie
I recently read that Halloween has passed Easter and Valentine’s Day and is now second only to Christmas for consumer spending on the holiday. That’s not exactly the Halloweens I remember growing up, where things were just a tiny bit simpler. Right now shoppers can buy no less than five designs of sugar cookies in a roll to just slice and bake for Halloween. A witch, a pumpkin, a bat, an owl, and candy corn are all right there in the refrigerator case. When I was growing up, we had one cookie cutter in the shape of a pumpkin, and if you didn’t roll out the dough just right, it ended up looking like a lopsided circle when you baked them. Today, there are purple, green, orange and black sugar crystals for décor; back in the day, we mixed up gloppy icing that never turned out a really good shade of orange because it was too hard to figure out the ratio of red and yellow food coloring. Recently at one of my favorite retailers, I saw an entire aisle in the home décor section dedicated purely to Halloween: pillows with skulls and crossbones, a doormat with jack-o-lanterns, a pumpkin scented candle, and sheets—yes, sheetswith witches stirring their cauldrons. A few years back now, our only indoor Halloween décor consisted of coloring sheets we completed at Howard Johnsons when we ate there after church on Sunday, which we stuck to the refrigerator with Playskool alphabet letters spelling BOO. Walking my dog tonight, I passed a neighborhood yard with a full blown graveyard with tombstones and another yard with six blow up figures ranging from Frankenstein to Snoopy, quite a
display, and quite a drain on the generator running them all. I am a little guilty of Halloween overload myself, with seven hard plastic jack-o-lanterns plugged in to a power strip on my porch and a gigantic wreath with a shiny witch hat. Living old school, when we decorated for Halloween, we propped open our front door and hung up a spindly skeleton printed on faded shiny card stock, made to look loose limbed with gold brads that held his parts together, and…well, there was no ‘and’. Our bony friend was it! We kept the jack-o-lantern inside in case pranksters wanted to smash it. Pumpkin carving was not the art back then that it is today. Basically we took a black crayon to our pumpkin and drew triangles for the eyes and the nose, cut them out, and then let our dads carve out some semblance of a smile. And we just carved one ORANGE pumpkin as a family, which always led to a sibling fight of massive proportion. Today, there are stencils and add on kits to make your pumpkin look like a Star Wars character or a super hero or a past President. No one would have thought of painting a pumpkin, because that would have denied you the joy of scooping out the insides, cleaning off the seeds and salting and buttering them for roasting. No one went to a pumpkin patch unless you lived on a farm—you just begged your mom to get a good pumpkin from the huge cardboard box at the local Kroger. Halloween parties in my childhood neighborhood consisted of cake walks, musical chairs to scary songs played on record players, and maybe a costume contest which only one kid won, without everyone getting today’s mandatory participation prize. One really fantastic
party had face-painting—but not by a hired professional using organic colors. We painted each other with tempera paint! We sometimes played pumpkin ring toss, and we bobbed for apples, which my germophobic self would never let me do now. On the other hand, today’s parties are over the top. I saw a Pinterest post detailing a Halloween party where the culminating activities were a pumpkin toss and a pumpkin launch using giant elastic bands. This followed a pumpkin themed food buffet, an interactive photo wall, and dry ice lining the sidewalk. One definite advantage of today’s Halloween frenzy is the candy. In my trick or treating days, we considered it a pretty good haul in our pillowcase candy bag if we got Smarties and Tootsie Rolls, edible wax lips, wax pop bottles complete with fake liquid pop, and candy cigarettes, or a stretchy candy necklace. Our local dentist did not give us dental floss or toothbrushes like Halloween urban legend, and in all those years I never saw a razor blade in an apple or any other item, but some of the selections we did get were pretty weak by today’s standards. Necco wafers, atomic fireballs, Pez, Bit ‘O Honeys, Dum Dums suckers, and peanut butter Mary Janes, really pale in comparison to today’s pumpkin and bat shaped Reese’s, left and right Twix, and ghost shaped Peeps. Admittedly, I do kind of miss homemade popcorn balls conglomerations of freshly popped corn and Karo Syrup. In a series of unmemorable costuming
years, I was a cowgirl, a clown, a hobo, a princess, a gypsy, and a Raggedy Ann. Most of them were costumes that came from our home closet or a boxed set complete with a thin plastic mask held on by an elastic strip, from SS Kresge Co., Kmart’s forerunner. There was no run to a thrift shop, no excursion to a store dedicated totally to costuming, no online search for the perfect look. And just so you know—my sister followed me each year right into a hand me down costume I had worn the year before. Poor girl! In stores today there are elaborate make-up pallets needed for creating gruesome, garish effects to complement costumes. We just made great use of mom’s Tangee lipstick, applying it for both round clown cheeks and big clown lips. If we were really daring, we took her eyebrow pencil (yes, this was before the giant eyebrows trend of today), and we drew on extra eyelashes, fake freckles, or a single line, Snidely Whiplash mustache. We trick or treated, not trunk or treated, and our pets were locked in the back bedroom while the trick or treaters rang the bell, not costumed as an avocado, a taco, a jailbird, a bee, or a ballerina complete with a tiny dog tiara. Although I have to admit that my boy dog’s RUFeree costume is always a big hit. If you come by my house on October 31 this year, I will have Monster Mash and Thriller playing on loop, sitting on my porch with a cup of cider and a stale popcorn ball, handing out better than average candy. Happy Halloween!
Looking Back: Before Pink Hill by Marcia Napier Grain Valley Historical Society
One of the oldest, if not the oldest Methodist church in Jackson County was Greens Chapel, sometimes called Brick Church. An associate church of the Pink Hill Charge, it was located 3 miles north and ½ mile east of the town of Pink Hill. There are, as far as can be ascertained, no written records as to when or by whom the church was first organized, but it was probably about the same year as the brick cemetery, 1834. The original brick building deteriorated and was torn down and replaced by a frame building about 1895. The timber framing logs were hauled by Dorcey and Lewis Neer from a sawmill
located on what was known as the old Pink Hill picnic ground. The church was built by Albert George, Ed Walraven, and Harvey Gardner. The church disappeared but the adjoining cemetery, enclosed by a stone wall, is located where Borgman Road joins Steinhouser Road. The birth date on the monument of James Pallate is 1803, the year of the Louisiana Purchase. Although cemetery grounds are well maintained, many of the stones are too eroded and weather beaten to read. Many pioneer people are buried there.
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).
Sports
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Eagles Run Past Cardinals by John Unrein Moody Murray Memorial Stadium was the setting for an opportunistic Grain Valley defense and rushing attack that downed the Raytown South Cardinals 48-12. The Eagles offense rushed the ball consistently and effectively. Running backs Ethan Grasher and Trent Flake carrying the football off tackle on trap, as well as quarterback Cole Keller keeping the football on option were common announcements across the public address system during the game. “Any time you have a successful running attack, you keep your defense off the field and you shorten the game. Our guys executed pretty well up front,” Head Coach David Allie said. Contributing rushing touchdowns on the evening were Grasher, Flake, and running back Mason Guhse. The Eagles were also successful through the air, with touchdown passes from Keller to wide receivers Gavin Oyler and Parker Bosserman. “Having Gavin Oyler back is having another guy the opponent must account for. If we face an opponent that tries to stack their front against the run, he (Oyler) can take the top off of the defense. With us heading into the playoffs, we must be able to throw the football if needed,” Allie said. The Eagles appear to be in a position to do just that heading into week ten of the
season. Assistant Coach Mike Tarrants and the rest of the Eagles offensive coaching staff have worked to develop an offensive line that has started two sophomores at times throughout the season. Starting players that young is not an ideal situation to encounter during your first year of being in the Suburban Conference. However, the growth of players up front this year like sophomore Jack Bailey have been apparent to anyone who consistently watches the Eagles. Grain Valley’s five rushing touchdowns on the evening GV linebacker Hunter Newsom rumbles down the sideline after an onside kick recovery. against an athletic Raytown Photo credit: John Overstreet South defense provide proof. “Our preference is to play at home shutout,” Allie said. The fade pass was The Eagles defense was resourceful next week. Whoever the opponent is, the only nemesis for the Eagles in finding ways to get their opponent we’ll be ready to play. Heart, family, defense. It led to both of Raytown off the field. They forced four punts on and physicality, along with holding onto South’s scores on the evening. the evening along with a turnover on the football will be keys for us moving Grain Valley’s special teams was not downs. forward,” Allie said. left out of the team victory. Mister Contributing interceptions were Utility, Parker Bosserman, contributed defensive backs William Lanear and extra points. Sophomore linebacker Trent Flake. Big hits were also Hunter Newsom recovered an onside contributed by linebackers Trent kick and made the decision to rumble LeGrotte and Seth Dankenbring. down the Eagles sideline, coming up “Our defense was physical. They just short of the goal line. played lights out. I think they reached “Newsom’s a kid that if you watch every goal they had except for a him, he’s playing some varsity linebacker for us. He had a sack tonight against their one’s and the big onside recovery on kickoff return. He’s going to be a great one for us,” Allie said. The Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) website has determined by computer formula that Grain Valley will host the Grandview Bulldogs at home on Friday, October 26 at 7:00 P.M in a Class 4, District 7 matchup. This will be a rematch, as the Eagles previously defeated the Bulldogs in a week two of the season by a score of GV defensive back Trent Flake with the 30-20. The winner will go on to face interception. either Warrensburg or Kansas City East Photo credit: John Overstreet on November 2.
THE WEEK AHEAD Boys Swimming: Varsity Conference Championship Meet October 26, 2018 4:00pm vs. Lees Summit @ Lees Summit Aquatic Center
Boys Soccer: District October 30, 2018 5:30pm vs. Kansas City East @ Van Horn HS
Cross Country Sectionals October 27, 2018 10:00am vs. Liberty North @ Liberty North HS
Cross Country: Varsity MSHSAA State November 3, 2018 TBA
Community Calendar 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 GVPD. 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 REAL Women of Faith Bonfire 7:00pm—9:00pm Faith United Methodist Church, 1950 SW Eagles Pkwy Join the REAL Women of Faith United Methodist Church for a night around the bon fire. S'mores, hot cocoa, fellowship and more. Free Childcare will be provided. November 3, 2018 Youth Program: Earth Keepers 11:00am—11:45am Mid-Continent Public Library Grain Valley Branch, 101 SW Eagles Pkwy From saving water to helping prevent wastewater runoff pollution, kids will find that they can make a big difference through small acts. Registration required: https://www.mymcpl.org/ events/36904/earth-keepers
November 5, 2018 Book Group 6:30pm—7:30pm Mid-Continent Public Library Grain Valley Branch, 101 SW Eagles Pkwy Registration not required. 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. November 8, 2018 Intermediate Word 6:30pm—7:30pm Mid-Continent Public Library Grain Valley Branch, 101 SW Eagles Pkwy Registration required: https://www.mymcpl.org/ events/36969/intermediate-wordr November 10, 2018 UMW Craft Fair 10:00am—4:00pm Faith United Methodist Church, 1950 SW Eagles Pkwy November 12, 2018 Board of Alderman Meeting 7:00pm City Hall, 711 Main Street November 14, 2018 Planning and Zoning Commission 6:30pm City Hall, 711 Main Street November 15, 2018 FAFSA Walk-Through 6:30pm—7:30pm Mid-Continent Public Library Grain Valley Branch, 101 SW Eagles Pkwy Assistance in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid,. Registration required: https://www.mymcpl.org/events/37031/ fafsa-walk-through Add your community event online at www.grainvalleynews.com.
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