Valley News NOVEMBER 12, 2020
www.grainvalleynews.com
Vol. 3, No. 45
FREE
Board Honors Local Hero, Approves New Audio-Visual System The Board of Aldermen met Monday, November 9th, approving the issuance of general obligation refunding bonds not to exceed $2,425,000, approving the purchase of an audio-visual system for the council chambers, and recognizing a Grain Valley resident for saving the life of 9 month old Fae Johnson. Noting the dated equipment and poor quality of audio for residents who wish to view Board proceedings online, the Board approved the purchase of an upgraded audio-visual system for council chambers. Most of the $30,912.62 cost for the system will be covered by CARES act funding received from Jackson County. Mayor Pro Tem Shea Bass presented a proclamation honoring the heroic act of Mary Hieronymous, that saved the life of 9 month old Fae Johnson. Fae’s mother Michelle Johnson and Fae’s grandmother Crystal Johnson of Oak Grove, were pulled over near Sonic in
Grain Valley, attempting to dislodge a fry that Fae was choking on when Hieronymous drove by noticing signs of distress. Hieronymous performed the Heimlich maneuver, dislodging the object from Fae’s blocked airway. Sgt. Shannon Carr responded to the scene on October 21st, and EMS assessed the baby and found her to be in good condition. The Board also approved a resolution to construct and install a pedestrian crossing over Blue Branch Creek, as outlined in the City’s Trails Master Plan. The bridge will provide connectivity between the Grain Valley High School/ Sni-A-Bar Elementary campus and the Sni-A-Bar Farms residential subdivisions. The next meeting of the Board of Aldermen will be held Monday, November 23rd at 7:00pm.
Left to right: Michelle, Fae and Mack Johnson, Mary Hieronymous and Mayor Pro Tem Shea Bass. Hieronymous was recognized for the life saving actions she took to save baby Fae, who was choking on a fry in the back of the family’s vehicle. Photo credit: City of Grain Valley
Good News: Christmas In The Park Returns November 25th—January 2nd
Missouri Trivia by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society Chillicothe is a Shawnee word meaning "the big town where we live." And it was in this
town of Chillicothe, Missouri, where sliced bread was first offered for sale in 1928. A product of the Chillicothe Baking Company, it was sliced on a machine called the Rohwedder Bread Slicer, invented by Iowa inventor, Otto Rohwedder.
In This Edition:
Photo credit: Jackson County Parks + Recreation
Looking Back: The Pointe Newspaper’s First Edition
3
Musings From The Middle: The Day My Daughter Liked ME Best
5
Your Health: Pears Perfected
8
Sports: Fall National Signing Day Arrives For Two Eagles Gymnasts
11
With the holidays fast approaching, the magic of the season comes to life starting Wednesday, November 25th at Jackson County Parks + Rec’s 33rd Annual Christmas in the Park drive-thru holiday event. This free, magical winter wonderland includes 175 lighted and animated
displays illuminated by more than 500,000 lights. “Every year we add something new to the Christmas in the Park experience,” Jackson County Parks + Rec Director Michele Newman said. “This year, we’ve added an additional two
Flags fly over Legacy Plaza Veterans Tribute on Veterans Day. Photo credit: Valley News staff
see GOOD NEWS on page 2
Support Local News: Become a Sustaining Member We are a free local weekly newspaper, supported by advertisers and annual sustaining members. Show your support for YOUR local news by becoming a sustaining member today.
Sustaining members receive the following: Name listed in each weekly edition for one year. 20% discount on all advertising and Valley News products. Valley News coffee mug and Roasterie coffee. Each sustaining membership is valid for one year from the date of payment.
Join online at www.grainvalleynews.com.
Page 2
GOOD NEWS
continued from page 1
nights, a 25-foot Santa at the BBQ grill – fitting for the BBQ Capitol of the World – and an expanded entrance tunnel experience, programmed to a sequence of dazzling colors and effects, to a spectacular 100 feet!” While there is no charge for this drive -thru event, voluntary exit donations are accepted with a portion of the proceeds divided among 39 local charities. Thanks to the generosity of Christmas in the Park patrons, Jackson County has been able to donate over $1.2 million to more
than 1,000 local charities, including the FOX4 Love Fund, since the event’s inception. The drive begins at the Frank White, Jr. Softball Complex, 3901 SW Longview Road (2 miles south of 1-470 off of View High Drive). The display is open Sunday – Thursday from 5:30pm – 10:00pm and Friday – Saturday from 5:30pm – 11:00pm.
Reader Tip: Yield To Buses Have a tip or story idea? Send your suggestions to news@grainvalleynews.com. A reader sent Valley News an email late last week noting that she had seen a number of vehicles not yielding to or stopping for school buses. We reached out to Grain Valley Schools, and Transportation Director Shawn Brady said they have not seen an uptick in cars violating the stop arm, with the exception of one car on the south side of the district. Brady indicated the School Resource Officer at the south campus is
investigating the issue and hopes to have this addressed very soon. Brady asks drivers to obey all traffic laws to help ensure the safe travels of students to and from school. This includes following the laws regarding school buses and crosswalks and that pedestrians have the right of way. Chapter 304 of the Missouri Revised Statutes outlines that when approaching a stopped school bus from either direction, the driver of the approaching vehicle is required to stop before reaching the bus if the bus has engaged its signaling devices.
Police Blotter The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police Department daily calls for service log for the week of October 28-November 3, 2020.
October 28, 2020 RD Mize and Meadow RD Mize and Meadow 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 600 Block Yennie 700 Block Main St 1800 Block Madi Ct 600 Block Yennie 700 Block Main St 700 Block Crestview Ct 700 Block Shorthorn
Area Check Found Property Assault Citizen Contact Alarm Citizen Contact Property Damage Disturbance Stealing From Motor Vehicle Agency Assist (KCPD) Agency Assist (CJC)
October 29, 2020 1200 Block Woodbury Place 700 Block Main St 1000 Block RD Mize Rd Main St & I-70 700 Block Main St
Agency Assist (CJC) Citizen Contact Motor Vehicle Accident Motor Vehicle Accident Harassment
October 30, 2020 1000 Block Dean Dr 1300 Block Stoney Brook Dr 1800 Block Willow Dr 700 Block Main St 1400 Block Golfview Main St & I-70 1100 Block Sycamore Dr 1100 Block Sycamore Dr Phelps Court 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 600 Block Yennie 1500 Block Jacklyn 1200 Block Phelps Ct 1200 Block Persimmon 1200 Block Phelps Ct
Parking Complaint Check the Well Being Citizen Contact Stealing From Motor Vehicle Stealing Motor Vehicle Accident Property Damage Citizen Contact Parking Complaint Citizen Contact Suspicious Vehicle Alarm Area Check Parking Complaint Disturbance Open Door
October 31, 2020 500 Block Woodbury Dr 500 Block Eagles Parkway 1200 Block Eagles Parkway 1600 Block Eagles Parkway 200 Block Cypress 500 Block Broadway
Abandoned Vehicle Disturbance Hit and Run Stealing Animal At Large Compliance Check
1100 Block Sawgrass 700 Block Albatross 200 Block Aaron Ln 1000 Block Clover Ct 800 Block Mulberry 1100 Block Willow Dr 500 Block Woodbury Dr 500 Block Hickory Ridge 800 Block Sankar November 1, 2020 600 Block Montana Ridge 1500 Block Willow Dr 1200 Block Eagles Parkway Baytree and Baytree
Agency Assist (CJC) Suspicious Vehicle Animal Control Disturbance Disturbance Noise Complaint Check the Well Being Property Damage Area Check
200 Block Cypress RD Mize and Meadow 800 Block Green 1200 Block Phelps Ct
Area Check Citizen Contact Trespassing Careless and Imprudent Driver Suspicious Vehicle Area Check Area Check Area Check
November 2, 2020 1200 Block Golfview 700 Block Meadow 700 Block Main St 1300 Block Ashley Ln 3300 Block Outer Belt Rd 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 600 Block Yennie 700 Block Main St
Agency Assist (JCSO) Alarm Stealing Disturbance Dealer Application Harassment Citizen Contact Suspicious Person Child Custody
November 3, 2020 1200 Block Valley Ridge Dr 1700 Block Minos 1300 Block Blue Branch 1000 Block Ryan RD 300 Block Jefferson 700 Block Main St 200 Block Broadway 500 Block Hickory Ridge 1200 Block Scenic Dr 300 Block Jefferson 700 Block Main St 2100 Block Dillingham
Suspicious Person Suspicious Activity Citizen Contact Alarm Disturbance Found Property Alarm Check the Well Being Civil Standby Disturbance Assault Child Custody
Have Good News To Share Or A Nomination For Our Community Profile? Send your Good News to news@grainvalleynews.com.
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
Sustaining Members Thank you to our first sustaining members for their support of local news. Join them in supporting YOUR local news at https://www.grainvalleynews.com/store/p7/sustainingmember.html.
Cathy Allie
Marcia Napier
Shannon Grubb
Jeff Wolff
Phillip Hanson
John and Cory Unrein
Chuck Johnston
Jerry Vaughan
John Overstreet | Contributing Photographer Mail: PO Box 2972 Grain Valley MO 64029 Phone: 816.809.7984 Email: news@grainvalleynews.com Join us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: @grainvalleynews
Sign up at www.grainvalleynews.com to have Valley News delivered weekly to your inbox.
Katherine McCarthy
Looking Back
Page 3
Looking Back: The Pointe Newspaper’s First Edition The Pointe, the community newspaper for Grain Valley from 1998 to the early 2000s, launched this month in 1998. The first edition features a cover story on the City’s community center and city hall project on Main Street. The issue also details discussions at the City level regarding how to best utilize $4 million in bond funding for capital improvements. Matt Farlin, one of the four original owners of The Pointe, spoke with Valley News recently and reminisced on the early days of the paper. “For several years before we started, there was talk around town that we needed our own newspaper,” Farlin said. Farlin and fellow owner Brent Ince both had backgrounds in communications, and businesswoman Vickie Officer was keen to have a publication in town to provide much needed communication regarding City and business events. “We started talking more seriously about it, and felt it was time. We started out small—none of us were millionaires and we were all working people. But we thought we could make a run of it,” Farlin said. The first few editions were printed in Oklahoma, and shortly thereafter, papers were printed at the now closed Star Journal in Warrensburg. “Shortly after we got started, we recognized that we needed a quality proofreader, and we were lucky to have Jan Reding join us. She is a consummate proofreader, and bringing her on was a
huge plus for us,” Farlin said. The newspaper focused on local stories and events, and according to Farlin, was “unashamedly pro-Grain Valley”. One of the best parts of running a community paper, Farlin said, was hearing the stories of local residents and getting to know them. As far as challenges, Farlin remembers many long nights prepping the paper for print and everyone on staff wearing multiple hats. “There were some long days and nights. We were doing it on a shoestring, but we had a good time.” Farlin now works in communications with Midwest Public Risk, which keeps him connected to public service. “I get to deal with a lot of people who are in public service, and that’s the part I really love,” Farlin said. Other stories included in the Pointe’s first edition was the news that the Historical Society would be moving into its new building on Main by that December. The Historical Society maintains the location to this day, and will host its next Membership meeting on November 19th at 7:00pm. In addition to issues of The Pointe, the Grain Valley Historical Society maintains a large collection of Grain Valley newspapers and clippings related to Grain Valley news and events. The museum is open on Wednesdays at 506 S. Main. Visit the Historical Society’s website at www.grainvalleyhistory.com.
Program Helps Pay For Internet Access Kansas City area residents who face financial challenges because of COVID-19 may be able to get help paying for Internet service. The Internet Access Support Program (IASP) is a new initiative of KC Digital Drive. The program has launched with a new website at kcconnect.me. Because the Internet has become an essential utility for all sorts of basic activities, including online learning, remote work, job-seeking, and accessing public services, people who have lost work or income because of the pandemic are at risk of being cut off from critical resources. People earning up to 2 times the federal poverty rate can use the funds to pay off an existing balance, pay for current service, or establish new service. The IASP pays for six months of Internet
service. In some cases, the funds can be used to make arrears payments in order to reconnect to a provider. Initial funding for the program comes from the Kansas City Regional COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund, in partnership with the Mid-America Assistance Coalition (MAAC). Additional funds have been allocated by Johnson County, KS as part of its CARES Act distribution. Current funding is expected to support close to 2,500 households or families in need. The program funds are limited and will be distributed on a first come, first served basis, so people who are interested are encouraged to apply quickly by visiting kcconnect.me or calling (816) 200-0599.
Business
Page 4
You Don’t Need To Buy Antivirus Software For Your Computers, Smartphones, And Tablets by Burton Kelso, The Technology Expert One of the most common questions I get from people is “What is the best anti-virus protection to have for computers and smart devices”. There are a ton of anti-virus tools, such as McAfee, Norton, or Kaspersky, Avira, Avast, and AVG that offer features such as malware removal, spam blocking, and identity protection. Well, you will be shocked when I tell you the best anti-virus protection is nothing. Why? Windows and Macintosh computers already have it built-in and if you educate yourself, you don't need it for your smartphones or tablets. Read on to see how you can save your money and learn how to keep your devices safe without spending hundreds on protection software. 99% of cybersecurity threats require user interaction which means as long as you aren't falling victim to those phishing emails, texts, and phone calls, your devices, and your data and your devices will stay safe. In recent years, cybercriminals have turned to social engineering as a way of getting your personal information. They are also focused more on collecting your information that has already been leaked to the dark web. These methods of gathering information are much easier and profitable than the work that it takes for hackers to maneuver past personal and business firewalls. Cybercriminals have evolved from kids hanging out in the basement to see what computers they can infiltrate to plant a pesky virus to large criminal
organizations whose main goal is to steal your information to make a profit. Also, the term anti-virus is almost dated as it goes back to a time 20 years ago when worms, trojan horses were running rampant on the Internet. Protection for your Windows Computer. If you have a computer running Windows 7, 8, and 10. You already have an anti-virus program installed called Windows Defender. It offers solid protection for your Windows devices. It works in the background automatically updating itself only alerting you when there is a problem. If you're using a third party anti-virus solution, especially a free one, you'll be constantly bombarded with updates asking if you want more protection. Also, you have to deal with an endless supply of software installed on your computer and web browser that could potentially slow your computer down. Protection for your Macintosh Computer. Macintosh computers have a program called Xprotect or File Quarantine which works in the background protecting your Mac from a variety of threats. Unlike Windows Defender, it only works when you are using a function on your Mac that brings a new file onto the computer, such as checking email, downloading files in Safari, even checking iChat and messenger. It works in this manner to save those precious computer resources that can slow down a computer when you have programs like Anti-Virus running in the
City Survey Asks Residents For Feedback On June Vote The City of Grain Valley released a survey to registered voters on October 28th, requesting feedback on the failed municipal complex vote in June. The Board of Aldermen requested the survey to attempt to better understand the desires of residents as they focus on how to address the future of City Hall, the Police Department, and Community Center, and the Sni-A-Bar property which was proposed as the site for the municipal complex. The survey, administered by ETC Institute on behalf of the City of Grain Valley, is intended to understand why
the June vote was not supported by voters. In addition to questions regarding how respondents learned of and understood the ballot measure, the survey asks respondents to share their opinion on the best use of the current land occupied by City Hall, the police station, and community center. Options offered include expanding facilities at the current location or continuing to pursue a plan at the Sni-A-Bar Farms site. Residents may complete the survey at http://bit.do/GV2020Survey .
background. Protection for your Android and Apple Devices. There are threats out there that can infect smartphones and tablets, but for the most part, as long as you download apps for these devices from the Apple App Store or the Google Play store, you can keep your gadgets from getting infected. Good cybersecurity habits are what will keep you safe. There is almost an unlimited number of virus threats on the web and although anti-virus companies attempt to keep up with them, they can never really keep up which is why you should get cyber smart. Along with anti-virus protection, you need to make sure you're using secure passwords, two-factor authentication for your online accounts, automatic backups of your devices, and data encryption. You also need to be careful of what programs download to your computers, smartphones, and tablets, as well as avoiding opening email attachments unless you are expecting them.
Looking for More Useful Tech Tips? Our Tuesday Tech Tips Blog is released every Tuesday. If you like video tips, we live stream new episodes of 'Computer and Tech Tips for Non-Tech People' every Wednesday at 6:00 pm CST on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Technology product reviews are
posted every Thursday. You can view previous episodes on our YouTube channel. Want to ask me a tech question? Send it to burton@callintegralnow.com. I love technology. I've read all of the manuals and I'm serious about making technology fun and easy to use for everyone. If you need on-site or remote tech support for your Windows\Macintosh, computers, laptops, Android/Apple smartphone, tablets, printers, routers, smart home devices, and anything that connects to the Internet, please feel free to contact my team at Integral. Our team of friendly tech experts organization can help you with any IT needs you might have. Reach out to us a www.callintegralnow.com or phone at 888.256.0829.
Community Voices
Page 5
Musings From The Middle The Day My Daughter Liked ME Best by Cathy Allie My daughter is a Daddy’s girl. I understand why. I mean, I liked him well enough to let him convince me to marry him, so I am not surprised that she likes him a lot, too. They are peas in a pod, with lots of shared interests. They play their trumpets together. They watch all that Star Wars stuff that I don’t get. They use ranch dressing for everything from salad to dipping pizza crust. They talk about and play video games with hard to pronounce names. Their favorite apparel is usually a t-shirt that I would only use to dust my house and an equally grungy pair of shorts. They can nap sitting straight up in broad daylight. They laugh like hyenas at puns and fart jokes. They both do a pretty good impression of me, albeit not a very flattering one. Most Daddy’s girls assume Dad is the only one who can solve a problem, and mine is no exception. A stuck trumpet valve? Ask Dad. Expired milk? Check with Dad about the milk’s actual shelf life. Need a toilet plunged? Well, this one is actually one time when I am glad her Dad rushes to the rescue. Sometimes her assumption that Dad knows it all is a little frustrating. Even though I wash, dry, and fold almost all our household’s laundry, when I asked her to start washing some of her own clothes, she wanted to wait until her dad got home so he could show her how, to which I replied that I would need to be home at the same time to show him where the washer was. Lately, as she takes multiple practice tests online to obtain her driver’s permit, she will read the question out loud to her dad, despite the fact that I
am the only one in the house with a safe driver discount, and I only speed when driving to bakeries or when there is chocolate involved. I see the television commercials with the moms and daughters who curl each other’s hair, finish each other’s sentences, shop at the open air market for flowers. They smile at each other and hold hands. But I don’t visualize us in those commercials in any lifetime. I understand that favorite parent status diminishes with each reprimand or in-house fight. My husband often leaves before daylight for work and many days returns after the sun has set. So he misses her messy room or the cereal bowl she left in his recliner. He often comes in at the end of the hour I have spent cajoling her to proofread the answers to her math problems or to put on something besides another pair of black leggings and Vans to wear out to eat dinner. I vaguely remember a time during my teen years when I didn’t think too much of my mom either. “It’s just a phase,” friends say. Maybe so. And I am not totally without wins. After all, I am the only person who can make a grilled cheese just the way she likes it, and I can find the pipe cleaners she needs for her next project in our crowded art room. We have had some fun times getting pedicures or fancy nails together. And once, when she got a late invitation to a dance, I was the heroine who brought home four dresses from the clearance rack at Gordman’s, all of which fit and all of which I let her keep with little pleading. I am great at finding the funny socks she likes to wear with her Birk’s, and much to her joy, I am a pushover when
G R A I N VA L L E Y N E W S Our advertisers support your local news.
Support Small Business. Shop Local. www.grainvalleynews.com
Read Valley News weekly online: www.grainvalleynews.com
it comes to letting the dog sleep with her. But I know I will finish a close second to good old Dad. Except for… The Day My Daughter Liked ME Best. It started out like any other Saturday, with me banging dishes around in the kitchen, just loud enough to wake her, and yet not personally wake her up, shortly after ten. She stumbled in, grunted something unintelligible and made herself some toast and fruit. I waited patiently for her to fully drain my hot water tank with her shower and then we ran a couple of errands, took the dog for a walk, watched a cooking show (that she recorded so she could see it again later with her dad…), and wrapped a present for a friend’s baby shower. She tossed me the empty cardboard tube from the wrapping paper, and I caught it and twirled it. She stopped in her tracks and stared. “Do that again,” she said. “Catch something you threw at me like a missile?” I quipped. “No. That twirly thing,” she said, without rolling her eyes, and I knew intuitively this might be my moment. I spun the tube, tossed it into the air, narrowly missing the ceiling fan, caught it before it hit the ground and finished with a spin. “What is this? What are you doing?” she howled. “Well, it’s sort of like twirling a baton,” I said. “And you know how to do that?” “Sure. Watch!” I said, and sprung into a routine worthy of a spot in USC’s marching band. Hot summer afternoons spent tossing a cheap heavy-ended baton in the yard as a ten year old came back to me, and I performed as though auditioning for the Rainbow Girls talent show. “Oh. My. Gosh. What is happening?” she said, genuinely impressed. “Can you do that to music?”
After a brief pause during which she found my requested number—one Vicki Sue Robinson’s Turn the Beat Around—I resumed displaying my secretly held talent. I did a little diva-like complaining about the width of the tube and not being able to complete my finger rolls. She ran (like actually moved fast) to grab a light saber from her Disney trip, but when I did my signature shoulder shrug, the end of it popped out. She grabbed electric tape and wrapped it up so that I could continue. By now, completely out of breath and out of baton twirling shape, I begged for a little reprieve. “No! You have to show me more,” she said through a genuine smile. I spun my way through Sousa marches, did my elbow pops, executed a fishtail leg kick and twirled underneath it. She was mesmerized. Before long—but not before a couple of well-timed toss and cradle catches- I had exhausted my minimal repertoire, and gracefully exited the parade route. That night I was a little sore, and on my way to soak in a hot tub, I heard her talking to her dad. “Did you know Mom can twirl a baton? She just whipped out that skill right in front of me today. It was so much fun! We kept picking songs, and she just kept doing tricks.” She described in great detail all of the things I had told her about being a young girl bonking herself in the head until she could catch the metal tube, practicing all the time in the back yard and even in PE at school. She demo’d a couple of the tricks I showed her for her beloved dad, although clearly not with the level of expertise us long time twirlers display. When I think about that day, I smile. It was The Day My Daughter Liked ME Best.
Cathy is a retired public school English teacher and Public Information Officer.
Home & Garden
Page 6
Fall Leaves And Faded Garden Plants Make Great Compost by Cathy Bylinowski, University of Missouri Extension Horticulture Instructor Sugar maples, sweet gums, and black cherries gave us a beautiful show this fall with their bright oranges, pinks, and yellows, but those leaves fell to the ground in my neighborhood last weekend. Many of us like the sweet scent of fallen sycamore and oak leaves, but do not look forward to raking them up! If you don’t look forward to filling sacks with fallen leaves, University of Missouri Extension Field Specialists in Horticulture suggest turning at least some of those fall leaves into a valuable resource- compost and mulch! The carbon content of fallen leaves is a great addition to the nitrogen content of old, annual landscape and garden plants and helps create good compost. However, it is unlikely that the proportion of fallen leaves to compostable plant material will result in the recommended 30-to-1 carbon-tonitrogen ratio for a good compost pile. Since fallen leaves have a carbon-tonitrogen ratio of about 50-to-1 and freshly uprooted green plants come in around 20-to-1 on average, a good approach is to add twice as much plant material as leaves to the compost bin if possible. This will come close to the recommended ratio and allow for contributions from the kitchen compost pail. Vegetable food scraps such as apple, banana, and winter squash peels, avocado shells, and salad scraps can be added to the compost pile. Because adding fallen leaves and garden plants in layers will allow for better decomposition, try to stockpile some leaves and add them in layers to the compost pile. This will result in several small contributions of leaf material to the bin—a better option than dealing with a lump sum of leaves at the end of the
season. Couple this with regular culling of unproductive or fading garden plants and you’ll be able to contribute the appropriate ratio of each to the compost pile on a regular basis and make end-ofthe-season cleanup in the yard and garden easier. If you have more leaves than the compost pile can take, that might mean that you have a lot of shade on your landscape. Heavily shaded areas where turf is difficult to establish may best be converted to a ‘forest floor’ landscape where leaves are allowed to aggregate among shade-tolerant native wild flowers and other perennial plants. Another use for surplus leaves is to spread them directly onto the vegetable garden to decompose over winter. Decomposing leaves add beneficial organic matter and nutrients such as phosphorus and potassium to garden soil that helps hold nutrients and moisture in the soil and helps prevent soil erosion. Add a layer of 6-8 inches of leaves and gently work them into the soil. Earthworms appreciate fallen leaves, too. Earthworms also help leaves decompose and add more organic matter to the soil. Leaves do not significantly alter the pH of garden soil. Even oak leaves, which are acidic when fresh, break down to be neutral to slightly alkaline after going through the decomposition process. One important item you can consider purchasing for your leaf composting project could be a compost thermometer. Compost thermometers are longer than a typical thermometer and usually have ranges of temperatures highlighted to let you know if the pile is actively composting or not. It is a good way to know if your leaves and other garden organic matter
G R A I N VA L L E Y N E W S LOCALLY FOCUSED. FAMILY OWNED. PUBLISHED WEEKLY.
Fall leaves at River Bluff Reserve, Jackson County, Missouri. Photo by Cathy Bylinowski, Horticulture Instructor in your compost pile are biodegrading into a valuable and beneficial soil amendment. More information about composting and mulching is available in these MU Extension publications. These publications can be downloaded for free at https://extension.missouri.edu/ “Making and Using Compost” https://extension.missouri.edu/ publications/g6956 “How to Build a Compost Bin” https://extension.missouri.edu/g6957
“Mulches” https://extension.missouri.edu/ publications/g6960 Have more fall gardening questions? Please call University of Missouri Extension in Jackson County, at 816-4825950, contact the Extension Master Gardener Hotline at 816-833-TREE (8733), or explore our website at https://extension.missouri.edu/ counties/jackson
Outdoors & Recreation
Page 7
Rainbow Trout Stocked By MDC For Winter Fishing
Your Health
Page 8
Pears Perfected!
Pork Tenderloin with Fresh Pears Serves 6-8
by Megan Callahan, Hy-Vee Corporate Dietitian Pears are especially popular in the fall and in holidays dishes; however, they have gained year -round popularity due to being versatile in many dishes. It’s easy and delicious to incorporate pears into sweet or savory dishes, and you add a whole lot of nutrition. At Hy-Vee you will find several varieties ranging from Bartlett, Anjou and Red Anjou to Bosc. Selecting, storing and preparing pears doesn’t have to be difficult with these easy tips. Select pears that have a slight give when gently pressed at the top. Pears ripen from the inside out, so softness overall may indicate over ripeness. Store at room temperature, or inside a paper bag if pears are hard or firm and needing to ripen. Prepare by washing with cold water before eating. No need to peel, just slice pears in half and take out the core with a knife or melon baller. This fun fruit is high in fiber – which helps keep you full – and potassium, a powerful player in hydration, muscle and nerve functioning and regulating blood pressure. Potassium may also aid in reducing blood pressure and water
retention, protect against stroke and prevent osteoporosis and kidney stones. Pears also are an excellent source of vitamin C, a defender of cell health as an antioxidant. The sweetest, juiciest varieties are found at Hy-Vee – there’s no com-pearison!
Monday, November 16, 2020: City of Lee’s Summit, 616 NE Douglas St., Lee’s Summit 64081 This is a drive-thru clinic. Register: https:// form.jotform.com/202934079461155 Tuesday, November 17, 2020: The View Community Center, 13500 Byars Road, Grandview This will be a walk-in clinic. Limited individuals will be allowed in the facility at one time due to social distancing protocol. Clients may be required to wait outdoors under covering. Please dress appropriately. Register: https:// form.jotform.com/203095705072148 Wednesday, November 18, 2020: Vesper Hall, 400 NW Vesper ST, Blue Springs This will be a walk-in clinic. Limited individuals will be allowed in the
1 (1¼ lbs.) Hormel Always Tender fresh pork loin 3 tbsp Gustare Vita olive oil 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage, plus additional for garnish 2 medium yellow onions, quartered 3 Bosc pears, cored and quartered 2 tbsp Hy-Vee salted butter
The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.
2 tbsp Hy-Vee all-purpose flour
Megan Callahan is one of your Hy-Vee Corporate Dietitians. She is dedicated to helping people live healthier and happier lives. Megan received a bachelor’s degree in dietetics from Missouri State University. She completed her dietetic internship at the University of Kansas Medical Center, where she also received her Master of Science degree in dietetics and nutrition. Megan has been working with Hy-Vee full-time for 10 years. With a passion for nutrition and wellness, Megan is dedicated to educating customers and promoting healthy lifestyles to our Hy-Vee community. Megan lives in Lee’s Summit with her husband Matt, and their 2 children Kennedy (4) & Carsyn (2).
Hy-Vee salt & pepper
Health Department Offers COVID-19 Testing The Jackson County Health Department will offer COVID-19 testing at the following sites the week of November 9th—11th:
All you need:
facility at one time due to social distancing protocol. Clients may be required to wait outdoors under covering. Please dress appropriately. Register: https:// form.jotform.com/202946195931159 Thursday, November 19, 2020: Independence Uptown Farmers Market, 211 Truman Road, Independence Limited individuals will be allowed in the facility at one time due to social distancing protocol. Clients may be required to wait outdoors under covering. Please dress appropriately. Register: https:// form.jotform.com/202946242015145 Friday, November 20, 2020: 10020 E. 66th Terr, Raytown No walk-ins will be taken at this clinic. Register: https:// form.jotform.com/202955936295165 Pre-registration is not required but highly encouraged. Due to increased demand, openings for walk-ins are not guaranteed.
1½ cups Hy-Vee 33%-less-sodium chicken broth ¾ cup pear nectar Fresh cranberries, for garnish All you do: Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Pat pork dry with paper towels. Combine oil, garlic, and sage in a medium bowl. Brush half of the oil mixture on pork. Toss onions and pears with remaining oil mixture. Brown pork on all sides in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Transfer pork to a rimmed baking pan. Roast for 10 minutes. Add onion and pear mixture to pan. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes more or until meat thermometer reaches 145 degrees. Tent pork with foil and let stand for 10 minutes. Prepare sauce while pork is standing. Melt butter in skillet over medium-high heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Add broth and nectar. Cook until thickened and bubbly. Cook for 1 minute more. Serve pork with onions and pears. Drizzle sauce over pork. Garnish with cranberries and sage, if desired. Recipe source: Hy-Vee.com/recipes https://www.hy-vee.com/recipes-ideas/recipes/pork-tenderloin-with-fresh-pears
Sports
Page 9
Lady Eagles Cross Country Team Closes Out Season At State Meet by John Unrein The Gans Creek Cross Country Course in Columbia was the setting for the Show-Me State Cross Country meet on November 7th. The 320-acre recreation area boasts a course with a 500-meter starting chute, 2k and 3k loops, 30-footwide irrigated turf, a permanent finish line structure, outdoor shelter, and indoor building with restrooms. As a premiere cross country complex, it was designed to accommodate spectators and media. The City of Columbia website cites that the University of Missouri contributed a substantial amount toward the development of the complex. The Gans Cross Country Course is the home course for the University of Missouri and will host the NCAA Southeastern Conference (SEC) Championship in 2021. It also started hosting the Missouri State High School Championships (MSHSAA) in 2019. The Grain Valley Lady Eagles Girls Cross Country team had ten qualifiers for the meet who were ready to represent their school during their first time at the State Class 5 Level (the highest in Missouri). Kayley Bell, Ella Casey, Annalynn Earley, Valerie Holcomb, Kyla Huber, Lexie Nicholson, Lilly Ogle, Kelli Stevens, Alaina Valverde, and Gabriella Valverde were the Eagles who took to the starting line in Columbia. The large group of runners stayed together at the start of the race in an effort to not overtax themselves so a move could be made collectively at the 2,000 meter mark. This strategy afforded Grain Valley to wait for the congestion among the herd of runners to thin so that their attempted ascent was made easier. The top overall finisher at the meet was Ally Kruger of Liberty (Wentzville) High School with a time of 18:03 for 5k or 3.1 miles. That impressive effort bested the previous course record by 5 seconds. Grain Valley would go on to finish 16th as a team at the meet with top individual finishers of Ella Casey at 99th, Valerie Holcomb at 119th, and Lily Ogle at 122nd. The Eagles were mildly defiant as they finished the race in complying with directions to keep moving into the building past the finish line. Movement
towards the building would be met with pause prior to inching back towards the opening near the finish chute to wait for all members of the team to complete the race. The team was insistent on heading back to runner’s village together. Lady Eagles Head Cross Country Coach Nick Small was elated with the collective effort shown by his runners and what it meant to be the first team in school history to represent Grain Valley at the highest class level of competition. “I am super proud of these girls and the attitude they possess. Even going back to last season, they all sat down and wrote out their goals. They all wanted to go to the state meet as a team. We didn’t know what class we were going to be in at the time, but we have embraced the challenge,” Small said. “Witnessing the bond these girls have is fantastic. This crew is special. Cross Country is a beautiful thing because it’s forever. I probably had 12 texts this morning from former athletes wishing our team luck.” “More than running. That’s what this team is about. They are proud of the community they are involved in. We are going to miss the seniors on this team, but their impact will be felt for years to come.” Casey, Holcomb, and Ogle were all smiles as they reflected on their race, season, and what it meant to them. The trio had a lot be proud of as they continued to help put Grain Valley on the scholastic running map in Missouri. “Coach Small always tells us that running is ninety percent mental and ten percent physical. We’re encouraged to realize that when you feel like you’ve given all that you have, you can dig down and find more. I am proud of my team and that we got to represent Grain Valley here today,” Casey said. Holcomb added, “This is a team sport even though we are placed individually at the end of a race. The relationships built among us are special. I am glad for the time we spent together and what we did today collectively.” Ogle finished, “We push each other like a pack of wolves, we don’t want
anyone to fall back. I am super excited to be here as it this is my first year at state. This was super fun. Yes, it’s way better to be a participant compared to being a spectator.”
The Lady Eagles Cross Country Team also finishes the season as the second place team in Class 5 District 5. This also represents the 8th time Grain Valley has qualified as a team for state in the last 11 years.
Sports
Page 10
Eagles Demonstrate Growth Throughout Soccer Season by John Unrein The Grain Valley Eagles Boys Soccer team had reeled off four consecutive wins and a Class 3 District 8 title prior to meeting the Fort Zumwalt South Bulldogs on November 7th in the state tournament. The Bulldogs, who hail from the western side of suburban St. Louis, brought a 19-4 record and roster littered with All-State players to Moody Murray stadium. A sun-kissed and windy afternoon with temperatures in the seventies provided the setting for the center kick at midfield by Grain Valley to start the game. The first half saw the Eagles share equal possession of the soccer ball with the Bulldogs during the first six minutes of the game. Grain Valley sophomore goalkeeper Ryan Lampe repelled three Fort Zumwalt shots on goal prior to the Bulldogs finding net by junior midfielder Karson Gibbs 8 minutes into the game. This would be the first of two goals by Gibbs on the afternoon that helped his team secure a 4-0 win over the Eagles. The five seniors on the Eagles roster demonstrated a determined effort during the second half that saw Grain Valley tie Fort Zumwalt with shots on goal at 16 apiece. Forwards Pierson Jaynes and Alex Engram joined defensemen JR Brown, Nathan Manning, and Colby Siems in increasing offensive chances for the Eagles on the Bulldogs side of the field. Grain Valley would come up just inches short on three occasions of putting the ball in the net during the second half. A header attempt off a corner kick would narrowly sail over the crossbar and the outstretched fingertips of Bulldogs goalkeeper Luke Dillon 24 minutes into the second half. Junior defender Gage Levell would lead the next offensive charge for the Eagles. The result would be a diving save by the Bulldogs 34 minutes into the
second half. Grain Valley would launch their final assault on goal one minute later with a kick that would be punched away only to have the subsequent header miss as well before being covered up in the goal box. Lampe would also provide five additional saves in the second half, including a diving stop across his body and a wrestling save where the ball was secured off of the foot of an oncoming Bulldog player before the shot on goal could be completed. The effort by Lampe drew praise from the coaching staff and players on the Eagles bench. The culmination of Lampe’s efforts kept the game within striking distance for Grain Valley during much of the game. During the Eagles postgame team meeting, head soccer coach Brett Lewis encouraged each member of the team to find a senior afterwards and thank them for their play and the leadership provided, as it would be there last time playing on Moody Murray field during their high school career. The breakdown with the Eagles yelling “family” on three was followed by teary eyed hugs and handshakes. The quintet of Grain Valley seniors posed one last time for a postgame picture prior to sharing their thoughts on their final game and high school career. “We helped to continue on the positive culture that is Grain Valley soccer. I am proud of that,” Engram said. Brown added, “This program is more than about winning and losing. We are encouraged by our coaches to do the right things on and off the field. These last four years have been a pleasure for me,” Manning agreed, “We had a goal to get as far as possible in State (the playoffs). However, Coach Lewis has pushed us to be better men and caring about our reputation off the field as
Above: Colby Siems is first to the ball and heads it in the Eagles direction. Photo credit: John Overstreet
see SOCCER on page 11
Above: Eagles Goalkeeper Ryan Lampe makes a successful save. Photo credit: John Overstreet
Grain Valley Eagles Seniors (L to R): Pierson Jaynes, Colby Siems, Alex Engram, Nathan Manning, and JR Brown. Photo credit: Valley News staff
Sports
Page 11
Fall National Signing Day Arrives For Two Eagles Gymnasts by John Unrein Grain Valley High School witnessed two of their own sign letters of intent on November 11th during fall national signing day. Kara Eaker and Carley Scott each announced their intent to join the University of Utah and Lindenwood University respectively. Both Eaker and Scott’s families were joined by Activities Director Brandon Hart, Principal Dr. Jeremy Plowman, and Dr. Brad Welle, Assistant Superintendent of Student and Community Services, to celebrate the occasion. “This is a tribute athletically and academically to the student athletes we are recognizing today. It’s also about the parents. I am a big believer that your children are here today due to your support. The financial and time commitments put forth by parents is a big part of this success. I would like to congratulate both of you on behalf of Grain Valley High School,” Hart said. Eaker signed to be a part of the University of Utah Utes Gymnastic Team under the direction of Head Coach Tom Farden. Eaker will dawn the White and Crimson colors worn by the Utes in Salt Lake City, Utah. “Kara’s gymnastics has impeccable precision and a mesmerizing flow that our fans will love,” said Farden. “Her signature event is balance beam where she has been a multiple World finalist. We are thrilled for her to be joining our Red Rock family,” In a press release, the University of Utah highlights Eaker’s accomplishments as a two-time U.S. Senior National Team member (2018-19, 2019-20) and a member of the U.S. Junior National Team in 2017-2018. Eaker aided Team USA to consecutive team gold medals at the 2018 and 2019 World Championships, while also shining individually on her strongest event. Outside of the World Championships, Eaker represented Team USA at the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru where she earned a team gold medal, individual gold medal on beam, and silver medal on floor. Eaker earned a
team gold medal with Team USA the year prior at the 2018 Pan American Championships. Eaker was also the gold medalist on beam and bronze medalist on floor. Most recently against international competition, Eaker competed with Team USA at the 2019 Gymnix International where she went on to win three gold medals – team, all around, and beam. Eaker trains at Great American Gymnastics Express (GAGE) and is coached by Al Fong and Armine Barutyan. Eaker will graduate from Grain Valley High School in the spring. “I chose Utah because they have a focus on academics as much as gymnastics. They support my dreams and goals along with the opportunity to graduate with a degree,” Eaker said. “The best part of being an Eagle at Grain Valley High School has been the support I have received from my teachers and the friendships that have been created.” Scott would be the next to sign her letter of intent to join the Lindenwood Lions located in St. Charles, Missouri. The Lindenwood Women’s Gymnastics program is under the direction of head coach Jen Llewellyn and is currently ranked third nationally in NCAA Division II Gymnastics. Scott has accelerated on the uneven bars during her gymnastic career and is excited to take her talent east next fall. “I chose Lindenwood due to the beauty of the campus and the team atmosphere I encountered when I visited. I am excited to get the chance to compete at the college level and establish relationships with my new teammates. Gymnastics presents a new challenge to you every day that have to push through,” Scott said. “My ‘Eagle Time’ teacher Ms. White has been a big help with things like my schedule and making me feel welcome here. All of my teachers, for that matter, have helped me become who I am today.”
Kara Eaker signs her letter of intent with the University of Utah. Photo credit: Valley News staff
Carley Scott signs her letter of intent with Lindenwood University. Photo credit: Valley News staff
SOCCER continued from page 10 much as winning. That’s 100 percent (true).” “This journey has been about the brotherhood that exists in and out of this huddle,” Siems said. Jaynes concluded, “This family is just starting for us and it will continue on through our lives.” “I would like to redo that first half. We came off a little sleepy. We left it all out there after that, and that’s all you can ask at the end of the day. Grain Valley’s offensive growth sprouted towards the end of the season. Evidence of this can be found in the 23 goals the team scored through their first sixteen games, good for 1.4 goals a
game. The last five games of the season against Fort Osage, Truman, Warrensburg, Sacred Heart, and Fort Zumwalt South witnessed the Eagles score 17 goals in five games, good for a 3.4 goal a game average. Grain Valley finishes the season with a 9-12 overall record. Lewis was proud of his team’s offensive growth as well as the contributions from his senior class as he reflected on his first year at the helm for the Eagles. “Growth, man, is where it was at for us. We are a different team now then we were at the beginning of the season. Our best soccer was played down the
stretch,” Lewis said. “There were times this season when we could’ve thrown in the towel and said our season is over. This team came to practice every day with the desire to get better and we found ways to overcome some of the deficiencies we had at the beginning of the season.” “That is a testament to our season and the way they conducted themselves.” Lewis continued, “The first half we were playing them and the wind (with it against us). We were deficient on shots and had to grind it out in getting to half time. Obviously, we didn’t want to give away two goals early on.”
“The way we responded in the second half, I thought we deserved to score one or two goals with the chances we created. The guys responded well and I’m proud of their efforts in the opportunities we created with the wind at our backs.” “I couldn't have asked for a better group of seniors to start my head coaching here with. It will be tough to lose them, but they led by example and persisted through tough times. I sense they will have success as they progress through life.”
Community Calendar Saturday, November 14, 2020
Wednesday, November 18, 2020
Thursday, November 19, 2020
Thursday, November 26, 2020
Project Feeder Watch Kick-Off 9:00am—10:00am Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center Join us as we participate in this citizen scientist project. Registration required: 816-228-3766
Virtual Storytime 10:00am—10:20am Join library staff for virtual storytimes for your littles. We will have stories and songs, brought directly to your home. www.mymcpl.org/events
Grain Valley Historical Society Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley Historical Society, 506 S Main
Thanksgiving Day City Hall Closed Grain Valley Schools closed
Sunday, November 15, 2020 Virtual Storytime 10:00am—10:20am Join library staff for virtual storytimes for your littles. We will have stories and songs, brought directly to your home. www.mymcpl.org/events
Tuesday, November 17, 2020 Word Templates 2:00pm—2:30pm www.mymcpl.org/events Need to quickly create a document? Use Word templates to create letters, calendars, cards, flyers and more. Grain Valley Park Board Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley Community Center, 713 Main Cooking with Tea 7:00pm—7:45pm www.mymcpl.org/events Discover basic techniques for infusing your favorite teas into everything from main dishes to desserts.
Hey Parents! Exploring Teachables 1:00pm—1:30pm www.mymcpl.org/events Do you have kiddos at home that could use a little enrichment? Teachables, by Scholastic, is a fantastic resource. Teen Trek & Tech 6:00pm—7:00pm Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center Come learn about acorn diversity and how it effects Missouri’s ecosystem. Registration required: 816-228-3766
Saturday, November 28, 2020 Saturday, November 21, 2020 Handgun:: Basic Pistol 8:00am—10:00am Lake City Shooting Range, 28505 E Truman Road Register: 816-249-3194 Discover Nature: Winter Tree ID 10:00am—11:00am Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center Attend this hands-on workshop to learn the tips and tricks to tree identification throughout the seasons. Registration required: 816-228-3766
Monday, November 23, 2020 Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting 6:30pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 S Main The Business of Writing and Authorship 6:30—8:00pm www.mymcpl.org/events A sustainable writing career requires more than good writing. It requires understanding of the industry and a consistent investment of time in your writing business.
Answer to last week’s puzzle:
Read Valley News weekly online: www.grainvalleynews.com
Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 S Main
Discover Nature: Nature Gratitude Hunt 1:00pm—1:30pm 1:45pm—2:15pm 2:30pm—3:00pm Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center, Blue Springs Search the trails near the Nature Center to find hidden “pumpkins” of knowledge about special things only the natural world can do for us. Collect four gratitude pumpkins to redeem for a special prize. Register: 816-228-3766
Monday, December 14, 2020 Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 S Main
Tuesday, November 24, 2020 Exploring Cash Apps 2:00pm—2:30pm www.mymcpl.org/events Sending friends money to do your Black Friday shopping for you or just trying to stay a little safer on your Cyber Monday shopping spree? Explore a few cash apps that could make life easier for you.
Add your community event at www.grainvalleynews.com/ eventscalendar