Valley News www.grainvalleynews.com
December 20, 2018
Vol. 1, No. 27
FREE
Good News
Shop with a Cop Brings Holiday Cheer to Kids in Need Shoppers arriving at the Blue Springs Target on the evening of Thursday, December 13th were a bit startled to see a phalanx of police vehicles parked outside the entrance. The unusual scene became clear once the Grain Valley Santa Bus pulled up to deliver over 30 excited Grain Valley kids for a night of shopping with local officers. This was the second annual Shop with a Cop event hosted by the Grain Valley Police Department. Officers from Oak Grove, Blue Springs, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Odessa, Lone Jack Police Departments and Missouri Highway Patrol joined Grain Valley
Police Department officers in shopping for gifts for the children and their families. “This event would not be possible without the outstanding support of the many businesses who stepped up to help with this event,” GVPD Officer Danny Iiams said. Businesses who contributed to the Shop with a Cop event included Bank of Grain Valley, Blue Branch Manor, Discovery Church, KCG Investments, LLC, McDonald's, OOIDA, State Bank, and Target. The Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) and the Grain Valley Santa Bus provided logistical support.
Valley News on Holiday Break
GVPD Officers shopped with over 30 local children during the departments’ departments’ 2nd Annual Shop with a Cop event.. Photo credit: Valley News staff
Grain Valley News will be on holiday break for the next two weeks, returning in print and online on Thursday, January 3rd. We wish our fellow neighbors a very merry holiday season and a happy, healthy new year. We look forward to sharing your stories in 2019 and appreciate your support. The office will be open with the exception of Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. To place an advertisement, contact Cory Unrein, 816-809-7984 or cory@grainvalleynews.com. Announcements, classified, and other news items may be sent by email to news@grainvallleynews.com.
“The place where the best dogs choose to be groomed.” Opening January 2019 at 1060 NE McQuerry Rd, Grain Valley Marketplace (in the shops near Casey’s, just north of 1-70). Book your appointment in January and receive a 20% discount on full service groom.
816-721-5486
Local News
Page 2
Jackson County Food Establishment Report Jackson County Public Works Environmental Health Division inspects all restaurants, grocery stores, schools, mobile food and temporary food establishments in the City of Grain Valley. The following violations were reported in the last 30 days: Dollar General Store #9597 105 E. Rock Creek Lane Ladies restroom had an uncovered trashcan. Mactan Asian Market 1438 SW Eagles Parkway The reach-in cooler and two deepfreeze coolers were not on. Food in the deep-freezes was under 41*F, so able to be moved to a working freezer. Foods in the reach-in cooler were above 41*F with internal temperatures showing; Fish - 70*F. All potentially hazardous foods were discarded re-inspection required. Grain Valley Marketplace 8 1131 NE McQuerry Road Theaters 1-3 had soda spills on the floor. Theaters 1-3 had trash & spilled food on the floor inside the trash bin. Food handler permits were not
available at the time of this inspection. Jeremy, Jen R, Elizabeth VP, Kalia B, Dawson T, Jacon B, Kaitlynn G, Jaspreet S. Canteen Vending Ave. C (Kohl's Dist. Center) 2015 NE Jefferson St. All foods in the reach-in cooler were above 41*F. Internal temperatures showed; Sausage Gravy - 50*F. Ambient temperature showed - 48*F. Reinspection required. All out-oftemperature foods were discarded. The thermometer in the reach-in cooler was broken/not working. America's Best Value Inn 105 Sunny Lane Dr. Plastic utensils were stored with the mouth side up. Corrected. There was a leak in the pipes below the 3 compartment sink. Corrected. GVMS Concessions 901 SW Ryan Rd. No handwashing sign at the hand sink. Corrected. Inspector provided signage. Counter around the popcorn machine was dirty.
Road Work Scheduled on 1-70 at Route F The Missouri Department of Transportation will have a lane closure along eastbound and westbound Interstate 70 at Route F on both Wednesday, Dec. 19, and Thursday, Dec. 20. The lane closure will involve various lane shifts as crews conduct bridge work on Route F. All work is weather permitting. Wednesday, Dec. 19 Crews will have a lane closure along both east and westbound I-70 at Route
F beginning at 7 p.m. until 5 a.m. the following morning. Thursday, Dec. 20 Crews will close the left lanes of both east and westbound I-70 at Route F beginning at 7 p.m. until 5 a.m. the next morning. These lane reductions may impact I70 traffic. Consider alternative routes. Review traffic impacts on MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at http:// traveler.modot.org.
Police Blotter
The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police Department daily calls for service log for the week of December 5-11, 2018. December 5, 2018 BB Hwy/Old US 40 Hwy 100 Block Armstrong 700 Block Main St 700 Block Mkain 900 Block Ryan Rd 2000 Block NW Hedgewood 700 Block Main St 100 Block Pebblebrook December 6, 2018 2000 Block Hedgewood 700 Block Main St 500 Block Foothill 1000 Block Foxtail 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 100 Block Sunny Ln December 7, 2018 700 Block Main St 1600 Block Eagle Ridge Dr 700 Block Main St 700 Block Tisha Ln South Bound Buckner Tarsney Rd 100 Block Buckner Tarsney Rd 600 Block Brome 100 Block Eagles Parkway 700 Block Main St December 8, 2018 1300 Block Lindenwood 500 Block Main St 600 Block Creek Ridge Dr 1100 Block Valley Ridge Dr 700 Block Main St Sni-A-Bar & Eagles Pkwy 200 Block Walnut 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 1200 Block Golfview 700 Block Nelson Dr 500 Block Graystone
Injured Animal Dealers Application Fingerprints Speeders Check The Well Being Alarm Fraud Suspicious Vehicle Alarm Citizen Contact Agency Assist (JCSO) Agency Assist (JCSO) Citizen Contact Hit and Run MV Accident Agency Assist (KCPD)
1300 Block Valley Woods Ct 400 Block Broadway RD Mize & Valley Woods Ct 1200 Block Eagles Pkwy December 9, 2018 1200 Block RD Mize Rd 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 1200 Block Willow Dr 600 Block Yennie St 100 Block Sunny Ln 1500 Block Erin Ct 21st and Broadway December 10, 2018 1100 Block Ephraim 1200 Block Eagles Pkwy 700 Block Main St 200 Block Barr Rd
Citizen Contact Suspicious Vehicle Found Property Lost Property Area Check Suspicious Activity Disturbance Assault Suspicious Vehicle
Harris & Cypress
Alarm Agency Assist (CJC) Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Stealing Area Check Check The Well Being Citizen Contact Leaving Scene MV Accident Area Check Noise Complaint Suspicious Vehicle
December 11, 2018 500 Block Gateway Ephraim & Sni-A-Bar
700 Block Main St 800 Block San Kar 1400 Block Mary Ct 1200 Block Pamela Blvd 1200 Block Eagles Pkwy 1300 Block Phelps Dr BB Hwy & McQuerry 500 Block South St
Main St & I-70 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 1300 Block Phelps Dr 1300 Block Ashley Dr 1600 Block Highview Dr 800 Block Redbud Main St & Broadway
Noise Complaint Agency Assist (OGPD) Agency Assist (CJC) Motor Vehicle Accident Animal At Large Agency Assist (BSPD) Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Disturbance 911 Hangup Agency Assist (OGPD) Assault Citizen Contact Standby to Prevent Disorderly Conduct Suspicious Vehicle Alarm Alarm Check The Well Being Burglary Disturbance Alarm Motor Vehicle Accident Property Damage Citizen Contact Parking Complaint Area Check Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Alarm Agency Assist (BSPD) Abandoned Property Property Damage Area Check
Valley News
Grain Valley News is a free community paper, published weekly on Thursdays online at www.grainvalleynews.com and on the 1st and 3rd weeks of the month in print. Cory Unrein | Co-Owner/Publisher John Unrein | Co-Owner/Production Manager Cathy Allie | Staff Writer, Proofreader Diana Luppens, Switch Focus Studios | Contributing Photographer Mail: PO Box 2972 Grain Valley MO 64029 Phone: 816.809.7984 Email: news@grainvalleynews.com Sign up for our weekly emails and join us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
(@grainvalleynews).
Please Note: Valley News will be on holiday break
the next two weeks, returning Thursday, January 3rd.
Page 3
What Do Gardeners Do in the Winter? by Cathy Bylinowski, Horticulture Educator, University of Missouri Extension
Rest! Yes, rest! You deserve it. Depending on the weather this fall and winter, the upper layer of the ground is alternately freezing and thawing. If we have cold temperatures for weeks on end, the top couple of inches of soil can freeze. Unless you have a high tunnel (unheated hoop house) or a regular greenhouse, it is not a good time to plant ornamental flowers, shrubs, trees, or vegetables outdoors. Freezing temperatures will kill tender growth. Of course, garden clean-up can still happen. Vegetable gardens benefit from the removal of old tomato, pepper, and eggplant stalks. Tree leaves can be raked up and stockpiled in a compost pile, where they can be left to decompose. Composted leaves can be used to lightly mulch ornamental perennial beds and around trees and shrubs. Here is a link to a guide sheet on mulches; https:// extension2.missouri.edu/g6960 Dream! This might sound strange, but I usually feel as though the winter is not
long enough! February arrives, and I realize that early spring is only weeks away. Use December and January’s short days and colder temperatures to spend time dreaming about changes and additions you would like to make to your home or property landscape, to flower and vegetable gardens, orchards, or berry plantings. Now is a great time to do research on new varieties, species, and gardening methods you have been thinking about trying. University of Missouri Extension and Extension Services of states surrounding Missouri are excellent sources of reliable horticulture information. Here is a link to MU Extension’s horticulture information: https://extension2.missouri.edu/findyour-interest/agriculture-andenvironment Plan! If you want to make your garden dreams a reality, winter is a fantastic time to plan. Sketch ideas for new gardens or expansions of existing plantings.
Read trustworthy information on new plants you want to try in 2019, making sure you are putting the “right plant in the right place”. This is a common landscaping recommendation meaning that before you spend money on plant material, make sure it grows in the conditions present on your property or in the garden space you have available. Come up with a rough/tentative garden budget for the If you want to make your garden dreams a reality, winter is a fantastic time to plan. year to help you make your garden dreams a reality. Photo credit: iStock Get ready to work! Clean and sharpen gardening tools. Order seeds and plants. Do some simple stretches to help you get in shape for spring. Early spring, cool season vegetable crops can be planted by seed outside as soon as the ground can be worked. Even if we have a cold snap with a light frost or freeze in late February and March, crops like arugula, radishes, and leaf lettuce will not mind the cold temperatures. The use of floating row covers can be used to temporarily cover early spring cool season crops if
temperatures drop below freezing for prolonged periods. Here is a link to the University of Missouri Integrated Pest Management MEG Newsletter (Missouri Environment and Garden), a free monthly, online newsletter with timely information on a wide range of gardening topics: https://ipm.missouri.edu/MEG/ The University of Missouri Extension in Jackson County wishes the best to you and your family and friends in the New Year! Feel free to contact our office at 816-252-5051 for gardening information in 2019.
Extended Weekend Hours Available Apply Online for Citizens for Tax Payments, Questions Police Academy
Taxpayers have two weekend opportunities remaining in 2018 to make in-person tax payments, obtain a copy of their bill, or ask questions. The Historic Truman Courthouse, located at 112 W. Lexington in Independence, will be open from 8 a.m. – Noon December 22 and December 29. “The best way to avoid any issues is to not wait until the last minute. We understand people are busy and can’t always get to the courthouse during business hours,” said Whitney Miller, Director of Collection. “Our goal with extended weekend hours is to alleviate that stress for our customers by providing another level of convenience to navigate and complete this process. We are here to help.” Payment Options Online – To save time and avoid lines, taxpayers are encouraged to pay online via credit card, debit card or electronic check (E-Check). Online payments must be submitted by 11:00pm on December 31st to avoid penalty.
Mail – Taxpayers can simply mail their payment to the address on their bill. Payments must be received or USPS postmarked by December 31st to avoid penalty. In Person – All forms of payment are accepted in person at the Department of Collection Offices at the Jackson County Courthouse in Kansas City (415 E. 12th Street) and the Historic Truman
Courthouse in Independence during regular business hours. New, extended weekend hours are only available at the courthouse in Independence. Taxpayers must bring their form of payment and their tax bill. If they do not have a tax bill, they can visit the Department of Collection to have one printed. Taxpayers can also look up their account online and print the bill to avoid additional wait time.
Drop Box – Drop boxes for property tax payments will be located at the west door of the Jackson County Courthouse in Kansas City and at the front door of the Historic Truman Courthouse in Independence. Do not place cash in either drop box. Jackson County offers relief for seniors through its Senior Citizen Quad Payment Program, which allows them to pay their County real estate tax bills over four equal installments in a year, if they meet the qualifications. The one-page is available on the Jackson County website, www.jacksongov.org, or at the Department of Collection offices. Individuals may also call (816) 881-3232 to have an application mailed to them. For additional questions, visit the Department of Collection webpage, email collections@jacksongov.org, call the Taxpayer Services Unit at (816) 8813232, or visit in person at the county courthouse in Kansas City or Independence.
The Grain Valley Police Department is offering citizens a unique opportunity to get a first hand look at the daily operations of the department. The Citizens Police Academy guides participants through a number of topics, including K9, swat/tactical and bomb squad operations, accident investigations, and firearms safety and training. Citizens 21 years of age and older who pass a background check are eligible to participate. The program
begins January 8th and continues each Tuesday from 6:00pm—9:00pm until March 5th. The majority of classes will be held at the Grain Valley Community Center. Applications for the Citizens Police Academy are available at the police department and online at www.cityofgrainvalley.org. Applications are due by December 30, 2018. For further information, call 816-847-6250 or email cvanderlinden@grainvalleypolice.org.
Health & Fitness
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4 Terms to Know When Buying Salmon by Tracey Shaffer, RDN, LD
Understanding labels can help you choose responsibly. The seafood counter can be overwhelming. How do you know if the salmon your eyeing was sustainably sourced? Is it better to buy wild caught or farm raised? And which is better for you … and for the ocean? Understanding a few common terms and labels can help you get answers, or at least know what to ask your fishmonger. Here’s what to look for.
Wild Caught
Wild-caught salmon are as the term implies—caught from their wild habitat, and usually by small-ish fishing operations. It also means the fish are raised on a natural diet, which contributes to their notably complex flavor and characteristic red-orange color. Wild-caught salmon are often leaner and lower in calories than farmraised salmon, but they also come at a higher price.
Farm--Raised Farm
If your salmon says farm-raised, it means just that. It was raised in an aquatic farm, also called an aquaculture. Farms may vary in size and practices, such as what they feed the salmon. The difference in diet may explain
several nutritional differences. Some farm-raised salmon may be higher in omega-3s and vitamin C; while wildcaught may be higher in calcium, potassium, iron, and zinc. Both farmraised and wild caught salmon may carry a risk for exposure to environmental toxins, but studies show the benefits of salmon outweigh the risk.
Fair Trade Certified
If your salmon is Fair Trade Certified—the green and black logo— that means the fishermen and workers received fair compensation and wages for their work. It also means practices were put into place for safer working conditions, environmental protection, and community development for healthcare, education, and clean water.
Responsible Choice
Seafood with the Responsible Choice logo has been rated as either a “Best Choice” or “Good Alternative” by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program, or are certified to an environmental standard benchmarked to these ratings. In other words, a Responsible Choice designation means that salmon and other types of seafood are not being overfished or sourced in a way that’s harmful to the environment. If you’re
ever in doubt, you can always visit SeafoodWatch.org and check out the Consumer Guide for your region. Salmon Health Facts Eating seafood two to three times per week reduces the risk of death from any health-related cause by 17 percent. Salmon and other fatty fish are rich in essential omega-3s, which have been shown to improve heart health, memory, diabetes, and depression. A four-ounce serving of salmon contains about 1,200mg of omega-3s. It’s recommended to eat two servings of seafood per week. Salmon contains 100 percent of your daily vitamin D, the bonestrengthening vitamin that many people struggle to get enough of, especially in the winter months. Seafood includes other vital nutrients such as selenium, iron, vitamins B-6 and B-12, and protein.
Tracey Shaffer, RDN, LD is a registered dietitian at the Blue Springs Hy-Vee. She can be reached at tshaffer@hy-vee.com. The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.
Salmon with Black Bean Stew Ingredients: Salmon 2 tbsp. olive oil, divided 1 tbsp. ground cumin 1 tbsp. coriander seed, crushed Salt, to taste Ground black pepper, to taste 1 lbs. salmon filet Black Bean Stew ¼ c. yellow or white onion, chopped 2 tbsp. garlic, chopped 1 poblano pepper, chopped Red pepper flakes, to taste 1 (14.5-oz.) can chopped tomatoes 1 (15.5-oz.) can no-salt-added black beans, drained and rinsed 1 ½ c. water 1 tbsp. fresh cilantro, chopped Green onions, chopped 1 fresh lime, juiced Directions: 1. 2.
3. 4.
5.
Four MORE Reasons to Exercise by Sally Whitaker
Exercising regularly provides an abundant supply of benefits. Slimming down, getting stronger, and sleeping better are just the beginning. Here are four more reasons to make time for regular exercise. Brain Boost Regular exercise has been shown to stimulate the release of growth factors -- chemicals in the brain that have a positive effect on the growth of new blood vessels in the brain and the survival of new brain cells. A 2014 Harvard Health article quoted Dr. Scott McGinnis, a neurologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and an instructor in neurology at Harvard Medical School as saying “Even more exciting is the finding that engaging in a program of regular exercise of moderate intensity over six months or a year is associated with an increase in the volume of selected brain regions.” So, persistence really does pay off when it comes to cardiovascular exercise. Keep Bugs at Bay Moderate amounts of physical exercise increases white blood cells which can help to strengthen the immune system. Breathing heavier and
harder during exercise may also help to clear the lungs of bacteria. Even better, a study at the University of California-San Diego School of Medicine found that it takes as little as 20 minutes to produce an anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting response in the body. Improve Coordination and Concentration The dance moves in Zumba, pretzel poses of yoga, and figuring out the maze of weight machines at the gym can feel confusing and often intimidating. But learning those new skills and refining them over time is shown to increase your coordination, concentration, and even memory. A University of Copenhagen study found that exercise boosts brainderived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that helps "cement" memories. Rebound Resiliently Aerobic and mind-body exercises help build the “fight-or-flight” threshold by boosting serotonin and dopamine and relaxing the muscles. Additionally, being able to call upon the breathing work from a yoga class or recalling how you were able to push through a few more minutes on the treadmill, can be just the bump of
6.
A study at the University of California -San Diego School of Medicine found that it takes as little as 20 minutes to anti--inflammatory, produce an anti immune--boosting response in the immune body.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a heavy skillet on medium heat. Mix together cumin and coriander seed in a small bowl; season salmon with spices and salt and pepper. Save some spice mix. Add salmon to skillet and cook on each side for 3 to 4 minutes until it easily flakes with a fork (145 degrees). Meanwhile, for the Black Bean Stew, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in another medium saucepan and add onion and garlic; cook for 3 minutes over medium heat. Add peppers, chili flakes, and reserved spiced mix. Cook until aroma starts to smell. Add tomatoes and allow tomatoes to start to sear. Add black beans and water. Simmer for 10 minutes. Add cilantro, green onions and lime juice. Add salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes. Place black beans in individual bowls and add salmon portion on top.
Nutrition facts per serving: 440 calories, 23g fat, 4.5g saturated fat, 60mg cholesterol, 270mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate, 9g fiber, 5g sugar, 31g protein. Vitamin A: 20%, Vitamin C: 50%, Calcium: 20%, Vitamin D: 15%
Photo credit: iStock
courage needed to get through life’s most stressful moments. You should consult your physician or other health care professional before starting this or any other fitness program to determine if it is right for your needs. Do not start this fitness program if your physician or health care provider advises against it. If you experience faintness, dizziness, pain or shortness of breath at any time while exercising you should stop immediately. Sally Whitaker is a Pilates and Yoga instructor with 15 years of experience teaching group classes and private clientele, primarily in Independence, MO. During the summer months you can find her teaching Sunset Yoga at Armstrong Park in Grain Valley.
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Education & Youth
Page 5
GVHS Robotics Team Prepares For Battle Battle plans are in development and weapons are being designed. These are not words you would generally like to hear coming from a school, but for the Grain Valley High School Robotics team, these are simply tasks on an extensive list of to-dos’ before they compete against other area teams this spring. The Grain Valley High School Robotics program is starting its 10th year of competition. After several years competing in the FIRST Robotics Program, the team will compete this year in the BotsKC program, sponsored by the KC National Tooling and Machining Association . According to BotsKC, there are 76,000 manufacturing jobs in the metropolitan Kansas City area, and the industry is expected to grow by more than 5 percent over the next decade. Employers are struggling to find skilled employees to fill these positions, so the
considering a move away from the FIRST Robotics program, it became clear to Jaques that the format and support provided by BotsKC was in the best interest of the students in the growing program. As the program has grown to nearly 50 students, it was increasingly difficult for all students to have a hands -on experience in building a single robot. “FIRST is a great program, but we were looking for something that was a better fit for us. We were introduced to BotsKC and it was a great fit given how our program has grown. There is a lot more engagement per student, because they are all able to work directly on the robot. Financially, it is a lot cheaper and the hours involved are spread out from October to April, which is much more manageable than cramming it into two months,” Jaques said. This year, the program is divided into
Don’’t let anyone let you think because you are a girl and you don don’’t know Don shouldn’’t try it out. Don Don’’t be afraid to try it everything about robotics, that you shouldn cool,”” Moss said. Photo credit: Valley News staff out,. It is pretty cool, Association has created the BotsKC program to engage the next generation and prepare them for a future in the manufacturing industry. Student teams are paired with industry partners to design, build, and battle light-weight robots in a competition held each spring. GVHS Industrial Tech teacher William Jaques leads the program and is excited about participating in BotsKC for a number of reasons. After carefully
four robotics teams of 8-10 students per team. Each team builds a 15-pound robot to compete against area teams in April. BotsKC also connects teams with area mentors. The Grain Valley team has been working with Creative Blow Mold Tooling in Lee’s Summit. “They have a crew of about 5-6 engineers and machinists that come in and work with the kids. There is a lot more one-on-one help with this
program, which is great,” Jaques said. While the students have access to mentors, the entire process is studentled. The students are responsible for the entire design process, documentation, building, and then battling the robots in competition. Emma Moss, a sophomore, has participated in robotics since middle school. She is currently working with CAD (computer-aided design software) to prototype the weapons on her team’s robot. “My assignment is to prototype the rotating blade on one of our weapons. After I prototype it, then we’ll try to build it,” Moss said. Moss said the robotics program has opened her eyes to career possibilities. “I had my eyes on a career in architecture, but I am fascinated with working working with my hands and seeing how a machine comes together. This is so much fun for me,” Moss said. Recognizing that there is a clear gender gap in the robotics and manufacturing fields, Moss encourages girls in middle school to try robotics. “It is more fun than you think it is. It is not going to be all ‘peaches and cream’, because you are often with a bunch of boys. But we need more girls in here and your input is important. Don’t let anyone let you think because you are a girl and you don’t know everything about robotics, that you shouldn’t try it out. Don’t be afraid to try it out, it is pretty cool,” Moss said. Erin White, a freshman who is also on Moss’s team, likewise encourages girls to not be afraid to try out the program. This is White’s first year with the robotics team. “I did not participate in middle school, but I enjoy it and plan to participate throughout high school,” White said. The team, unofficially known as “Shark Bait”, includes Seniors Peyton
Temple and Tyler DeHaan. Temple and DeHaan have been working on a prototype armor for the robot. Both Temple and DeHaan plan to pursue careers in the manufacturing or robotics field after graduation. Temple is planning to attend community college after graduation and then decide whether to pursue additional education or go directly into the manufacturing field. DeHaan will attend Missouri University of Science and Technology next fall and plans to major in mechanical engineering. Costs for the program are covered by the school and the Grain Valley Eagles Booster Club, who recently purchased color coded toolboxes and tools for each of the program’s teams to use. For more information on the robotics program and how the community can help, visit www.gvebc.com/hs-robotics.html.
Robotics Coach William Jaques assists Senior Tyler DeHaan who is working with teammates on a prototype armor for their robot.
Business News
Page 6 Scout Makes Holiday Visits to Local Businesses Scout, the Grain Valley Partnership’s mischievous elf, has been touring local businesses as we countdown to the holidays. Scout has checked out locations such as Funtastic Balloon Creations, Guthrie Family Dental, Grain Valley Chiropractic, Studio Five Beauty Boutique, and Vintage Chic Scents. Followers who follow Scout on his adventures can guess his location to be entered into a drawing for a gift basket from the Partnership. Follow the Partnership (and Scout) on Facebook at Grow Grain Valley: The 411. 411
Learn more about the Partnership: www.growgrainvalley.org
Scout the Elf checks out Vintage Chic Scents, located at 518 S Main Street.
Resolve To Get Involved with the Partnership in 2019 The Grain Valley Partnership is here to help you build your business. Whether you are an established business or just have a back-of-the napkin dream in mind, we can help you make important connections and gain the knowledge needed to make your business successful. We invite you to join the Partnership and become involved as a member. Just one of the many services we provide are our popular networking events. Business After Hours is the place to network and grow your business, while learning about an area business. We have monthly After- Hours on the second Thursday of each month. If you would like to host an after- hours event at your location, please contact Tasha at the Partnership office. Monthly Coffee Connections and our monthly luncheons are a great way to meet other business owners and learn about what is going on in our community. The Grain Valley Partnership Golf Classic offers networking with fellow members, vendors and customers combined with a day of golfing fun!
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.
Our Annual Dinner and Fundraiser is the premier event of the year and includes a fun filled night with dinner, award presentations, a raffle and silent auction.
Mark your calendars for the following upcoming events: Coffee Connections Fri Dec 21 2018, 8:00am - 9:00am Price Chopper- Grain Valley January Luncheon Tue Jan 8 2019, 11:30am - 1:00pm February Luncheon Tue Feb 5 2019, 11:30am - 1:00pm March Luncheon Tue Mar 5 2019, 11:30am - 1:00pm For more information on membership and our upcoming events, visit www.growgrainvalley.org or call Tasha Lindsey, 816-443-5162.
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Sounds of the Season Fill The Valley The sounds of the season filled Grain Valley last week during a host of school and church performances, including the 6th Grade Band concert held at Grain Valley High School on Friday, December 14th. The combined band of first year band students from North and South Middle Schools performed a number of holiday selections before a standing room only crowd in the GVHS gymnasium. Photo credit: Valley News staff
Build Your Business in 2019— 2019— Advertise with Valley News! Contact Cory Unrein, 816816-809809-7984 or cory@grainvalleynews.com to develop your custom advertising plan.
Yes, Virginia There is a Santa Claus DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, ‘If you see it in THE SUN it’s so.’ Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus? VIRGINIA O’HANLON. 115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET. VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge. Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.
Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world. You may tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding. No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood. —Written by Francis Pharcellus Church, Published in the New York Sun, 1897
Community Voices
Page 8
Musings from the Middle
She’s A Bag Lady by Cathy Allie
One of my favorite old games shows was Let's Make a Deal, where crazily dressed contestants tried to maneuver in Monty Hall's (now Wayne Brady's) world. The prizes were the best, and my most favorite part was when Monty would ask the ladies in the audience if anyone had a certain item in their bag. Sometimes it was a bottle of aspirin or something many ladies had. But every once in a while, he went for the truly original, like a set of Yellow Pages, a hammer and nails, or a wedding garter. I watched with amazement as ladies would reach deep into their bags and pull out these surprises. For a long time, my favorite movie was Mary Poppins, complete with her carpet bag that held the wonders of the world. Perhaps these favorites were just foreshadowing for my life as a bag lady, maybe not the one you have seen on city streets with all her worldly possessions tucked into her handled storage; but instead one who has amassed quite a collection of bags through the years. Maybe it started when I was a teacher, as I shifted from the collegiate backpack to a hard-sided briefcase, which someone thought would provide me with both a professional look and a storage place for all the papers I would be grading. The briefcase handle encumbered one hand, making it tough to carry my coffee cup (and cups are a full column
for another day), so I set it aside for something roomier with handles that slipped over my arm and up on to my shoulder. Then began the parade of school bags, some canvas, some "pleather", some fashionable, some purely functional, some pretty, some downright homely. They held my after school walking tennis shoes, coaching or game clothes, lunches, and random paperclips, which seemed to multiply at the bottom. When a new bag caught my eye, I shamelessly abandoned my old ones, randomly tucking them into closets and trunks, sometimes not even emptying them fully of their contents. Once when finally cleaning out a bag, I found an uncashed birthday check from my grandmother, who had since passed away. Pitiful! Somewhere in the 80's, I am guessing about the same time actress Debra Winger appeared in Urban Cowboy, I latched onto a decidedly Western look myself, I had two beautiful leather hand-tooled bags that coupled with my sky high hair made it appear I was headed back on the oil company plane to meet J.R. for lunch at the Ewing Ranch (just FYI, I would have preferred Bobby). Then came the passionate purse pursuit of the 90's, when I was making enough money to treat myself to nice purses. A bag to match this, a bag to match that. I must have had quite a night life back in the day, as I owned
about 10 evening bags, with varying amounts of sequins and crystals, none of which I can truly remember ever using. Thankfully for a world now obsessed with sharing old photos, I was never a fanny pack girl. Fast forward to the baby years, and carrying a diaper bag I convinced myself was both stylish and useful. I enjoyed having an excuse to have a small suitcase with me, and I packed it to the max with more than diapers and ointment, for sure. When my daughter was old enough to need a backpack of her own, I was forced to transition out of the house sized bag into something reasonable. I began to focus on color and season, purchasing a sky blue Easter bag, a purple Advent bag, and a tawny orange bag to welcome fall. I supported my beloved MU Tigers with a gold and black striped bag that stopped traffic more than once. A Chiefs bag still ranks as one of my top 10 best garage sale purchases ever. I suppose at some point I realized my borderline obsession with bags when one day after hauling in about three bags with me to work, a coworker said casually, “Everything okay at home?” and it took me a minute to realize she thought I was moving in at work all my bags in tow. I wish I could say that stopped me. I shifted away from personal bags and shifted to household use bags. A casserole carrier, an insulated cooler
bag for lunches and picnics, a three compartment bag that could literally have held a small body but nestled just perfectly in my car trunk. In a nod to nobly protecting our environment, I bought reusable bags for my groceries, and bags made from recycled materials. After a shoulder injury, I garnered cross body bags which I told myself had a slimming effect. When Oprah told us never to carry a bag bigger than our backside, I dutifully checked the sizes in the mirror before purchasing them. After a frantic search one day for car keys that had slipped in between the lining and the outside of the bag, my new favorite bags became ones with lots of different compartments that help me keep my cell phone, keys, and sunglasses in easy reach. I have curbed my bag collecting seriously over the last few years, and I am down to the few that I really love and use. But it may be too late. I watched my daughter get off the bus this week, laden with bags. Like a line from a Christmas carol, she had "one small bag for gym clothes, two bags for school books, and a trumpet in it's shiny case." Last week I saw what I know will probably be my last bag purchase to complete my collection. It is a tiny, almost keyring like size, and it holds the quarter I need, not to call someone who cares, but to use to nab a cart at Aldi. No one will even know I have it.
Looking Back: The People Behind the Name by Marcia Napier Grain Valley Historical Society
Whether it is a recently named street in a new subdivision or one of the original streets in Grain Valley established prior to the 20th century, every street name probably has a story. Many names are a part of the rich history of our town. Let’s begin with Gregg Street. Originally only two blocks, Gregg Street is on the west side of our current U.S. Post Office. Born in Tennessee, John Gregg moved first to Illinois and then to Cooper’s Fort in what is today Boone County, Missouri. In 1825 he lead one of 30 wagons on the first trading trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico. He made it only as far as Jackson County.
The first election was held in Jackson County in 1826. John Gregg was appointed the first surveyor, and was among those who selected the site of Independence Square as the county seat. On July 20, 1828, he married Nancy Lewis (niece of Meriwether Lewis). By 1840, they were living at Stony Point where Gregg was a farmer, merchant, and postmaster. They had 9 children. Gregg Street was probably named for their eighth son, Jacob Franklin Gregg. He was born in Stony Point on March 22, 1844. In 1862, both men were arrested and confined by the Yankees for their Southern sympathies. Upon release, the
younger Gregg, just 18 years old, joined a Confederate guerrilla company and saw action from Missouri to Texas for the remainder of the Civil War. In 1880, the younger Gregg purchased a grocery store and built the first home in the “new town” of Grain Valley. That same year, Grave and Ashcroft’s addition was platted in Grain Valley and included a street named for Gregg. In The Sentinel, published on December 20, 1890, I learned Mr. Gregg was the mayor, could draw up a deed, and make a will. He was also the town collector.
10am— The Grain Valley Historical Society Museum, located at 510 Main Street, is open Wednesdays from 10am —3pm Society’’s website, www.grainvalleyhistory.com, and follow the Society and by appointment. Visit the Historical Society on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram (@grainvalleyhistory).
Gregg Street was likely named for Jacob Franklin Gregg, the eighth son of Jacob Gregg and Nancy Lewis Gregg. Photo credit: Marcia Napier
Page 9 Wayne’s World
French Toast and Other Christmas Traditions by Wayne Geiger
Christmas Eve was spent at Noni and Papa’s house. Growing up, I was told, Noni is what Italian families called grandma. And that’s what we were—an Italian family— at least on my mother’s side. My grandparents, who spoke Italian and broken English, came over from the “old country.” On Christmas Eve, the whole family would gather in their humble, but comfortable home. It was an annual requirement, but I didn’t mind. It was tradition and it was fun. My parents assured me that we would be home in plenty of time for Santa to come. I enjoyed getting together with my family, consuming delicious treats, and playing with my cousins. Our Christmas Eve meal was a little different—at least that’s how it appeared to me as a child. All the food was not served at once, but came in courses. Also, while my friends talked about having turkey or ham, we were not. Our traditional Christmas Eve meal included various kinds of pasta, of course, but also baccalà (dried, salted cod), lobster, sardines, shrimp, mussels, and clams. It wasn’t until I was an adult, and doing some research, that I read about the “Feast of the 7 Fishes” Italian tradition. It clicked for me, “That’s what we were doing,” I thought. So many delicious and delightful memories came rushing in. As a family, we were celebrating tradition. When I had my own family, my wife and I developed our own traditions. For example, on the day after Thanksgiving, the Geiger Gang would cram into the car and head out on an adventure. Our goal was to purchase new ornaments for the tree. The kids were allowed to pick out one special ornament. This ornament would represent their nature or character or just be something that they liked. Every year, without fail, I
would get the Grinch. I should probably say that they Grinch was gotten for me, a tradition within a tradition. Searching for these ornaments provided a fun, family event and gave us a great opportunity to enjoy laughter and conversation. These trinkets also provided our kids with a sense of pride and accomplishment as they would show their friends and exclaim, “Look at my ornament.” As the years rolled on, the ornaments served as signposts and reminders of past Christmases. Each year, while we decorated the tree, these objects reminded us of where we were when we got them, sometimes reminding us of extremely joyful or even unpleasant times. Like portraits, these ornaments rekindled old thoughts and feelings and served as kindling to discuss the past, present, and future. Another tradition began by accident. I don’t cook much. My wife is extremely talented and loves to cook and decorate. Things go much smoother if I just stay out of the kitchen so, I just stay out of the way and beg for samples. To help her stay focused on the main meal, I decided that I would take care of breakfast for the family. There were only three requirements. First, it had to be quick. I couldn’t impede progress in the kitchen. Second, it had to be easy. Finally, I did not want to make an additional mess. I stumbled upon a recipe for a French toast casserole that fit all of the above. Our entire family loves French toast, but making enough for a family of six can be time consuming which, on normal occasions, is not an issue, but during the holidays can be problematic. The casserole involved only a few ingredients, could be made ahead of time, and then placed in the fridge overnight. It just needed to be put in the oven and baked the next morning. The kids loved it and it really helped take a little stress off of my wife. It also
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gave me a sense of accomplishment that I was actually helping out. The most important thing was, it became a family tradition on Thanksgiving and Christmas. The kids would ask every year, “hey dad, are you going to make your French toast?” (recipe follows). Another tradition centered around the meaning of Christmas. As a family of faith, our goal was to make sure that we attended church services on Christmas Eve. We wanted our kids to understand that Christmas was about giving and, at Christmas, we celebrated the fact that God gave His one and only Son, the greatest gift of all. My wife and I had mutual goals, but different ways of getting there. For her, she wanted us all to attend church in matching outfits. She worked diligently to design some cohesive theme that was recognizable. This made for some great pictures. For me, I just wanted to get to church on time. This ensured harmony within the family and made for great pictures. For both of us, attending services on Christmas Eve was essential and deeply spiritual. These services gave us opportunities to worship and celebrate and to have some deep conversations about faith and family. Traditions are extremely personal and important. Like ancient hieroglyphics, they remind us of who we are, where we came from, and where we’re going. Some traditions are strategically planned and programmed. Others, seem to bubble up naturally. Either way, traditions can conjure up deep emotions and take on a life of themselves. They are purposeful and powerful reminders of who we are and, sometimes, the glue that holds us together.
Wayne Geiger is the Pastor of First Baptist Church Grain Valley, an Adjunct Associate Professor of Speech at Johnson Country Community College, and a freelance writer.
French Toast Casserole What you will need ½ cup butter (1 stick) 1 ½ cup brown sugar 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon ½ – 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) 8 slices of bread (Texas Toast works great) 8 eggs a pinch of salt 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 ¾ cups evaporated milk Directions Topping You will make the topping first. Melt the butter in a 9 x 13 glass dish or disposable aluminum tray. Add brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon and stir. Generally, I use a brush and spread a thin layer of the melted butter and the sprinkle a generous helping of the brown sugar. I then pour the remainder of the melted butter in and flatten the mixture evenly. Then, I sprinkle the pecans over mixture so it’s even--more or less to taste. French Toast Mixture Beat eggs and salt together. Add the milk, vanilla and remaining ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Dip the bread into the mixture and place each piece into the glass dish on top of the topping mixture. I like to dip the bread into the egg mixture like traditional French Toast and lay in glass dish evenly. You will have a double layer of bread.* Pour remaining mixture over creases. Cover and place in refrigerator overnight.** Baking Instructions The next morning, uncover and bake at 350° for 45 minutes. Let it cool for a couple minutes Place upside down on plate so butter/ brown sugar are on top and enjoy!
Faith and Giving
Page 10
Focus on the Gift That Will Not Disappoint by Pastor Mike Cassidy, Faith United Methodist Church
things:: aallll that is true, From now on, brothers and sisters, if anything is excellent and if anything is admirable, focus your thoughts on these things all that is holy, all that is just, all that is pure, all that is lovely, and all that is worthy of praise. Philippians 4: 8 (CEB) I was preparing a sermon a couple of weeks ago about consumerism and the real reason for the Christmas season. I thought I’d throw in a reference to the latest, gotta -have-it toy craze and realized that, for the first time in a long time, I don’t know what this year’s “thing” is. We no longer have cable TV to tell us what’s hip and our kids are now old enough that they’re doing their own thing. So, I found myself “Googling” what the hot gifts are. When I read the name of the top toy – WowWee Fingerlings HUGS – I realized just how old I am. I don’t even speak the language anymore. Was that English? I was also sent back to my childhood, when it was catalogs and not Google telling me the top toys. I was ten when Hasbro released the USS FLAGG just in time for 10-year-old Christmas lists. The FLAGG was team GI
Joe’s aircraft carrier and the toy version was massive – over 7 feet long! And priced accordingly. By that point, my brother and I knew where my dad hid the presents. About a week before Christmas, I snuck into his office, opened the closet door (he wasn’t very good at hiding), and saw the tallest wrapped Christmas present I’d ever seen. This was it – all my dreams came true! All the marked-up Service Merchandise, Sears, and JC Penny catalogs I’d left out pointing to the USS FLAGG had paid off. This was going to be the best Christmas ever! I spent the next week leading up to Christmas dreaming of all the amazing things I could do with the Flagg. I picked out exactly where it would go in my bedroom. I measured my helicopters and jets to see what would fit on the deck. I decided which GI Joes would staff the FLAGG. And best of all, I knew how jealous my friends would be and how much I’d make them pay for the privilege of playing with the Flagg. It was a week of beautiful dreams …
And then Christmas morning came and there was my present, dwarfing every other present under the tree. In fact, my present even dwarfed the tree. The only problem? The tag on the box said “To: Brendon.” Brendon? My older brother? What self-respecting fourteen-year-old would play with a giant toy aircraft carrier? What kind of cruel trick was this? Did my dad think my brother had left all those catalogs out? All my dreams came crashing down in a big pile of disappointment. This has me wondering. What am I dreaming about this year? What kind of a world am I imagining? The four weeks before Christmas are a time that Christians call Advent. We prepare ourselves to celebrate the birth of Jesus, but we also remember Christ’s promised return. And what a glorious gift that will be – a new heaven and a new earth, no more mourning or crying or pain, no more death, no more tears. This year I’ve been trying to spend my time dreaming more about that day and a bit less focusing on the earthly,
material things I think will make me happier (and my neighbors jealous). Because how often do those earthly things turn out to be what I’d dreamt they’d be? But God’s gift of Christ’s return? That will not disappoint. Paul said as much when he wrote, “if anything is excellent and if anything is admirable, focus your thoughts on these things: all that is true, all that is holy, all that is just, all that is pure, all that is lovely, and all that is worthy of praise.” Oh, and that big box? It had nothing to do with GI Joe. My brother got his first synthesizer. Now he’s a composer. Who knows? If I’d gotten that aircraft carrier, maybe I’d be captaining the USS Nimitz.
Mike Cassidy is pastor of Faith United Methodist Church. He and his family moved here a year and a half ago and are excited to be part of the Grain Valley community.
Life Changing Gifts Through UNICEF Inspired Gifts holiday picks at unicefmarket.org/ holidaygiftguide. With UNICEF Inspired Gifts, choose from hygiene kits, therapeutic food packets, backpacks and more for the organization to deliver directly to children who need it the most. As little as $19 can provide polio vaccines to protect 100 children. Visit unicefusa.org/inspiredgifts.
(Family Features) This holiday season, you have the power to change children’s lives for the better. Working in 190 countries and territories, UNICEF is focused on putting children first with programs in health care and immunizations, safe water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more. From UNICEF Market products to items available from partners, UNICEF USA makes it possible to give gifts that make a difference in children’s lives around the world. A specially curated online shop, UNICEF Market features handmade gifts from artisans around the globe. With each purchase, proceeds go toward lifesaving programs for children and support for the artisans. Shop their
By connecting everyday activity to real-world impact, UNICEF Kid Power gives kids the power to save lives. Kids can learn about other cultures and places, while every step they take converts to lifesaving therapeutic food for malnourished kids. Grab a band and learn more at unicefkidpower.org. Consider these additional ways to give this holiday season: Joy As part of “Match the Magic,” The Starbucks Foundation will match any individual donations made to UNICEF USA through the Starbucks app or unicefusa.org/starbucksjoy from Nov. 12, 2018-Jan. 6, 2019, up to $100,000 – helping improve the lives of women, children and families in tea communities in Assam, India with the Ethical Tea Partnership.
Education MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell created the groundbreaking K.I.N.D. Fund (Kids In Need of Desks) with UNICEF in 2010 to support education in Malawi. Since then, the program has raised over $17 million for desks and girls’ scholarships thanks to MSNBC and “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell” viewers. Find more information at msnbc.com/kindfund. Nutrition Every purchase of a Signature Advent Calendar or Shea Milk Solidarity Soap from L’OCCITANE will help UNICEF provide vitamin A supplements to fight against preventable childhood blindness. Learn more at usa.loccitane.com. Safe Water S’well and UNICEF are working together to help provide safe, clean water to the most vulnerable communities around the world. With support from partners like S’well, UNICEF has helped over 500,000 people in Madagascar gain access to safe and sustainable water sources. Visit swellbottle.com/unicef to learn more.
Health Johnson & Johnson is a proud partner of UNICEF, helping children everywhere have a healthy, happy life. To learn more about their work together, please visit unicefusa.org/ johnson-johnson. Protection Garnier USA will donate $1* to UNICEF USA for every Whole Blends Holiday Kit sold from Nov. 8 - Dec. 31 at Walmart, with a minimum donation of $300,000. Available in Smoothing, Honey Treasures and Maple Remedy, each kit purchased can help up to five children living in emergency situations for a day. To learn more, visit garnierusa.com/unicef. #GarnierSupportsUNICEF
UNICEF does not endorse any brand, company, product or service.
Valley News will be featuring giving and volunteer opportunities throughout the year. Tell us about your cause at news@grainvalleynews.com.
Sports
Page 11
Hamilton Adds Depth to Royals Outfield by John Unrein
The Kansas City Royals did not stay dormant at this year’s winter meetings. The organization signed center fielder Billy Hamilton to a one-
year deal. Hamilton is scheduled to make $4.25 million in 2019 with up to $1 million in performance bonuses based on plate appearances. There is a mutual option on the table as well for 2020 that would pay him $7.5 million with a $1 million buyout. Hamilton is 28 years of age and should be entering his figurative prime as a player. However, his batting average and OPS (On-Base plus Slugging Percentage) have slightly dropped in each of the last three
seasons. He also stole 25 less bases last year (34 total in 2018) compared to his 2017 campaign. This left him non-tendered by the Cincinnati Reds in November. Make no mistake about it though, Hamilton brings elite speed and a significant defensive presence to the Royals outfield. He was a National League Gold Glove Finalist for 2018. Fangraphs defensive metrics ranked him as the third best center fielder in the National League last year behind Ender Inciarte and Lorenzo Cain. That’s not bad company at all. The Royals seem to be feeling nostalgic or getting back in touch with their roots. Think of what the middle of the team’s defense might look like when spring training opens. Salvador Perez at catcher, Second
Baseman Whit Merrifield, Shortstop Raul Mondesi manning the middle of the diamond, and Hamilton patrolling the spacious confines of center field at Kauffman stadium. Being able to catch the ball and field it cleanly in the middle of your defense adds more wins than one might think. Hamilton’s addition to the Royals outfield makes sense. Center Fielder Brian Goodwin acquired last year from the Nationals, spent time on the disabled list with a left groin strain. Brett Phillips hit .187 after coming over from the Milwaukee Brewers as part of the Mike Moustakas trade. Jorge Soler spent time on the disabled list with a broken foot, and Jorge Bonifacio watched the first 80 games of the season while serving a suspension for a Performance
Enhancing Drug. Alex Gordon is currently 34 years of age. Royals Manager Ned Yost has options on where to plug in Billy Hamilton in the lineup, should he stay healthy and win the starting center field job. The switch hitter could be plugged in at the bottom of the lineup. This would reduce pressure on Hamilton and allow him to work on a swing that stays flat or puts the ball on the ground. He could pile up hits that way while putting pressure on the opposing team’s defense. Hamilton, Merrifield, and Mondesi combined to steal an eye popping 1 1 1 total bases in 2018. That’s enough to make an opposing team’s catcher and manager sweat. The Royals could be off to the races…I mean bases in the upcoming season.
MDC Sets Deer and Turkey Hunting Dates for Upcoming Seasons by Joe Jerek, Missouri Department of Conservation
The Missouri Conservation Commission recently approved recommendations by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) for 2019-2020 turkey-hunting and deerhunting season dates. 2019 SPRING AND FALL TURKEY HUNTING DATES Spring Youth Portion: April 6 and 7 Regular Spring Turkey Season: April 15 through May 5 Fall Firearms Turkey Season: Oct. 1 - 31 2019 – 2020 ARCHERY DEER AND TURKEY HUNTING DATES Sept. 15 through Nov. 15 and Nov. 27 through Jan. 15, 2020 2019 – 2020 FIREARMS DEER HUNTING DATES Firearms Deer Early Youth Portion: Nov. 2 and 3 Firearms Deer November Portion: Nov. 16 - 26 Firearms Deer Late Youth Portion: Nov. 29 through Dec. 1
Firearms Deer Antlerless Portion: Dec. 6 -8 Firearms Deer Alternative Methods Portion: Dec. 28 through Jan. 7, 2020 Details on hunting regulations, harvest limits, allowed methods, required permits, and other related information will be available in MDC’s “2019 Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information” and MDC’s “2019 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information” booklets. Both will be available where permits are sold prior to the related seasons. Learn more about deer and turkey hunting in Missouri at huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/. Hunters may buy Missouri hunting permits from numerous vendors around the state, online at mdc.mo.gov/ buypermits, or through MDC’s free mobile apps, MO Hunting and MO Fishing, available for download through Google Play for Android devices or the App Store for Apple devices.
Preliminary data from MDC shows that deer hunters in Missouri harvested 6,585 deer during the antlerless portion of the fall firearms deer season, Nov. 30 - Dec. 2. Photo by MDC Staff, courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation.
Opportunities to Cheer on GVHS Winter Sports During Holiday Break Eagles fans have several opportunities to cheer on winter athletes during the holiday break. Girls Varsity Basketball fought hard against Winnetonka’s Lady Griffins on December 17th, falling 5551. Senior Point Guard Kendra Sibert (pictured at left) was a strong contributor in the first period. Girls Basketball plays at 7:00pm
Photo credit: Valley News staff
on December 20th at Smithville and at 5:30pm on December 28th at Oak Grove. Boy’s Basketball plays at 7:00pm on December 21st at Smithville and at 7:00pm on December 28th at Oak Grove. They host North Kansas City at home on January 4th. Boys Wrestling will host Blue Springs South and Oak Grove at
home on January 2nd. The match begins at 5:00pm. The inaugural Girls Swim and Dive season continues with a meet on December 21st vs. Raytown South. The meet begins at 2:00pm at the Raytown Wellness Center, 10301 E State Route 350. The team then faces Blue Springs South on December 28th at Blue Springs YMCA.
Community Calendar December 21, 2018 Grain Valley City Hall closes at Noon December 2424-25, 2018 City Hall Offices Closed December 24, 2018 Christmas Eve Services 6:00pm, 8:00pm, and 11:00pm Faith United Methodist Church 1950 SW Eagles Parkway December 31, 2018 Grain Valley City Hall closes at Noon January 1, 2019 City Hall Offices Closed January 3, 2019 School Resumes and 2nd Semester Begins Grain Valley Schools January 5, 2019 We Do Lego Robotics: Airplane Rescue 11:00am—12:00pm Come to the rescue with LEGO robotics! Build an airplane that swoops in to save the day. Kids will work in pairs to make this simple robot. Mid-Continent Public Library Grain Valley Branch Registration required: https://www.mymcpl.org/events
January 7, 2019 Book Group 6:30pm—7:30pm Mid-Continent Public Library Grain Valley Branch January 10, 2019 Beginning Genealogy 6:30pm— 6:30pm—7:30pm 7:30pm Find out the fundamentals of beginning your genealogical research project. We will discuss organization, census information, vital records, and where to look for information. Mid-Continent Public Library Grain Valley Branch Registration required: https://www.mymcpl.org/events January 14, 2019 Board of Alderman Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 Main
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES The City of Grain Valley is now hiring for a Police Officer and Animal Control Officer. Officer Apply online at https://www.cityofgrainvalley.org/ employment/.
January 15, 2019 Park Board Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S Main Add your community event online at www.grainvalleynews.com.
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