Valley News
APRIL 30, 2020
www.grainvalleynews.com
Vol. 3, No. 17
FREE
Grohman Retires As Grain Valley Postmaster Prior to the American Revolution against Great Britain, Benjamin Franklin served as the first Postmaster General of the United States under the British Crown. Franklin’s career in the postal service came from unpretentious beginnings when he was appointed Philadelphia Postmaster in 1737. Franklin used his position to increase the circulation of his newspaper, the Pennsylvania Gazette, by allowing riders to carry it to subscribers. Eastern Jackson County resident Jim Grohman has risen through the ranks of the United States Postal Service as well. Grohman’s 33 years of service has progressed from starting as a night clerk, before becoming a window clerk, then carrier before ascending to postmaster. Grohman was 24 years old when he started his journey. Grohman will have served as Grain Valley Postmaster just shy of eight years when he retires on April 30. Watching Grain Valley grow while seeing the community stay connected is something that has been a joy for Grohman. “Grain Valley is a nice place to live. It’s a quieter community with pride,” Grohman said. While away from his job, Grohman enjoys spending time with his family and playing Christian Rock music. Grohman is active playing in a faith based band and has written over 50 songs. This type of release has helped him achieve a good work-life balance. Even three decades into his chosen
career, Grohman still finds things he enjoys about his work. “Helping people get their mail where it needs to go is rewarding. Knowing that you had part in accepting, sorting, or delivering a piece of mail that’s merchandise, a letter, or a package touches a lot of lives,” Grohman said. “I can’t imagine how much mail I’ve moved over the years. Millions of pieces of mail. My satisfaction has come from sorting mail into post office boxes, or as
see GROHMAN on page 2
City Business Continues Through Virtual Board Meetings Grain Valley’s Board of Aldermen continue to conduct business during the stay at home order, utilizing video conferencing to meet virtually. The Board met April 27th via video conference. Recognizing the steps all governmental and business organizations are taking to continue business as close to normal, Alderman Bob Headley asked City Administrator Ken Murphy how City staff are managing during this time. “I think everyone is kind of settling
into the groove. It’s not ideal, but we’re making do,” Murphy said. The Board approved a resolution authorizing the City Administrator to execute an agreement with Blue Nile Contractors, Inc. for the Dillingham water main and trail. The resolution allows for the construction of a water main loop serving the Rosewood Hills area and extend the existing trail on Dillingham Road from Persimmon Drive to Lindenwood Drive and connect existing trail segments completing this section
see BOARD on page 2
Photo credit: Valley News staff
Good News
Mayor Names Kiki Claphan Citizen Of The Year
Each year, the Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF) asks local mayors to nominate a citizen from their city who lends their time, talents, and energy to better their community. This year, Mayor Todd has selected to bestow the honor posthumously to Christina “Kiki” Claphan. Mayor Todd shared the news via video conference with Kiki’s family on April 29th. “I can’t think of anyone more deserving of the honor. She represented what you look for in a Citizen of the Year. Not only for her work with the City, but the school district as well. Grain Valley was lucky to have her,” Mayor Todd said. Claphan will be honored September 26th at the THCF’s Toast to Our Towns Gala.
Kiki”” Claphan will be honored Christina “Kiki Valley’’s Citizen of in September as Grain Valley the Year. Photo courtesy: City of Grain Valley
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Page 2 GROHMAN continued from page 1 a carrier delivering mail to its final place. There’s a sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with that work.” Grohman continued, “That’s our job. Caring about the sanctity of mail and protecting it in getting it where it needs to go. Knowing you’re a part of an organization that dates to our colonial days in binding the nation together through correspondence is cool.” The weight of being a postmaster for a community is not without stress. A postmaster serves as the head of an individual post office. Their duties include providing unit financial and delivery information to district post offices. Depending on the size of the post office and possible staff shortages, they may also jump in and sort mail, run the retail counter or deliver mail per the USPS website. “There’s a lot of expectations when you become a postmaster. It’s a position that’s recognized in communities as a leadership position that carries a lot of responsibility. When you accept that title, it makes you want to do a good job,” Grohman said. Grohman is thankful for the career he has had with the USPS, citing it has been a good job for a long time. Advice was also offered when asked what he would suggest for someone interested in a postal career. “There are a lot of different opportunities in the postal service.
Window clerk, mechanics for automated equipment, delivery trucks, carrier, etc. Expect long hours, and starting out is rough, but it gets better with opportunities for advancement. Give it a shot. Go to usps.com and scroll down to the career link at the bottom of the page,” Grohman said. “City Carrier Assistants is the modern name for those that deliver mail. There’s major preparation in getting a route ready to deliver. You arrange packages after the route is prepared, scan them, and organize point of sequence mail.” Grohman concluded, “Approximately 90% of delivery point of sequence mail is sitting in trays in the order it is to be delivered that day as well as residual mail that you have to case. Packing the presorted mail, with residual letters or magazines, newspapers, and packages comes next. Some drivers have three to four bundles to deliver.” “You don’t know where you are going exactly when you start or where to park. It can be easy to get lost on rural routes. As you train, you also need to make the route in a certain amount of time while practicing safety at all times.” There were numerous people who contacted Grain Valley News requesting we do a story highlighting Jim Grohman’s service to the community. They all mentioned being grateful to know someone who cared about their job as much as Jim.
BOARD continued from page 1 to the northern city limits. Additionally, the Board approved a resolution authorizing the city administrator to purchase equipment and materials for the installation of a fixed base meter reading system and computer software for the system. City staff currently drives the routes in town to collect the meter reads or physically reads the meters on site. The new system will be installed on current infrastructure and or sites to collect reads when needed for utility billing and customers. Community Development Director Mark Trosen also reported City staff has completed the replacement of 400 meters this year. In other business, Mayor Todd read aloud a letter of resignation from former City Administrator Ryan Hunt. As previously reported, the letter was a part of a settlement agreement between Hunt and the City, which stipulates that Hunt’s employment record be amended to reflect Hunt voluntarily resigned from the position and was not terminated by the City, stating he is eligible for re-employment. Todd also reported a memorandum of understanding had been completed
with City Administrator Ken Murphy, who had been serving as Interim City Administrator after Hunt’s departure. The Mayor requested the Board ratify the memorandum, which outlines the terms of Murphy’s employment. The Board unanimously voted to ratify the memorandum. Todd also mentioned the upcoming bond issue for the proposed Community Campus on the June 2nd ballot, stating that there will be no active push to promote the issue. “The timing could not be worse with everything going on. We will provide updated information on website, but you won’t see us actively out and pushing the bond issue,” Todd said. While the true impact of the pandemic on City budgets is not yet known, Todd mentioned that Grain Valley seems better positioned than other local municipalities, due to Grain Valley’s lack of retail compared to other cities. “This is one time not being reliant on sales tax is a plus,” Todd said. The next Board of Aldermen meeting will be held virtually on Monday, May 11th at 7:00pm.
Read Valley News weekly online and the first and third
weeks of each month in print. www.grainvalleynews.com.
Police Blotter
The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police
Department daily calls for service log for the week of April 15-21, 2020. April 15, 2020 I 70 Hwy/EB Off Ramp 600 Block Valley Ridge Dr 1100 Block Pamela 1100 Block Buckner Tarsney Rd 700 Block Main St 800 Block Highland Ave 700 Block Main St 600 Block Par Dr
Agency Assist (MSHP) Alarm Citizen Assist Civil Stand By Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Disturbance
April 16, 2020 900 Block Deer Creek 1100 Block Valley Ridge Dr 700 Block Main St
Disturbance Citizen Contact Agency Assist (Fredrick County SO, VA) 1100 Block Dean Dr Citizen Contact Graystone/Sni-A-Bar Suspicious Vehicle 1200 Block Pamela Abandoned Vehicle 700 Block Main St Citizen Contact 1100 Block Buckner Tarsney Rd Suspicious Vehicle April 17, 2020 I 70 Hwy /24.8 Mile Marker 1200 Block Graystone Dr 1200 Block Phelps Dr 700 Block SW Crestview Terr 700 Block Main St
Motor Vehicle Accident Check the Well Being Harassment Agency Assist (CJC) Citizen Contact
April 18, 2020 1100 Block Buckner Tarsney Rd 700 Block Main St 600 Block Walnut 500 Block Willow 500 Block Graystone 100 Block SW Eagles Pkwy 700 Block Main St 100 Block Royer Ln 1200 Block Pamela Blvd 600 Block Yennie
Alarm Agency Assist (MSHP) Citizen Contact Illegal Burning Citizen Contact Alarm Citizen Contact Peace Disturbance Stolen Vehicle Citizen Contact
April 19, 2020 1200 Block Baytree 1200 Block SW Eagles Pkwy 900 Block Stonebrook Ln US 40 Hwy/Main St 700 Block Willow 1300 Block Ashley Ln 800 Block Cedar Ln 1000 Block Willow 500 Block Hamilton 1700 Block Minos 1400 Block Nicholas
Animal at Large Stealing Citizen Assist Motor Vehicle Accident Disturbance Vin Verification Open Door C&I Driver Trespassing Open Door Peace Disturbance
April 20, 2020 1300 Block Lindenwood 1100 Block Valley Ridge Dr 700 Block Main St 1300 Block Lindenwood 200 Block Parker 700 Block Main St 100 Block E Front St Old US 40 Hwy 1500 NW Eagle Ridge Dr 800 Block Mulberry Ct 1100 Block Buckner Tarsney Rd
Civil Stand By Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Disturbance Disturbance Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Citizen Assist Peace Disturbance Suspicious Vehicle Alarm
April 21, 2020 1300 Block Addie I 70 Hwy 1100 Block Pamela Blvd 400 Block SW Graystone Jefferson/Eagle Ridge 700 Block Main St 100 Block Royer Ln 500 Block Yennie 700 Block Main St 1300 Block Jefferson 100 Block Broadway 1100 Block McQuerry 400 Block Jefferson
Parking Complaint Agency Assist (IPD) Stealing Parking Complaint Citizen Assist Suspicious Person Funeral Escort Agency Assist (CJC) Citizen Contact Alarm Agency Assist (OGPD) Motor Vehicle Accident Suspicious Person
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 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 Have Valley News delivered weekly to your inbox. Sign up for our weekly email at www.grainvalleynews.com.
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Looking Back: The Kirby Home by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society
With a little help from Ancestry.com, the family can be traced back to the early 1700s, when David Kirby came to America from England. But I will start with one of his sons, Jesse Kirby, who was born in Virginia in 1757, fought in the Revolutionary War, and was around in 1776 when our nation was formed. In 1778 he married Sophie Choice, moved to Kentucky and together they raised eleven children. One of their sons, Major Willian “Bill” Kirby fought in the Spanish American War before marrying Lavinia Anderson on February 24, 1806 in Warren County Kentucky. They had seven children, including William Wyatt Kirby and Julia Ann Kirby (Herrington). After Lavinia’s death, he married Clarinda Herrington Doak, Julia Ann’s sister-in-law. Are you confused yet? William Wyatt’s eldest son, William Robert was born in Bowling Green, Kentucky in 1831. Like his father and grandfather, he was a farmer. But, not contented to be a farmer, he headed West. He was in Texas from 1857 to 1865 and California from 1865 to early 1868 before settling in Jackson County near Buckner. On October 7, 1868 he married a Grain Valley girl, Susan Rebecca Capelle . Together they raised four children on their farm located on land that is now part of Lake City. Their eldest son, Edward Early Kirby, moved into Grain Valley. He was the namesake for E. E. Kirby Road. In the 1920s, he was the Jackson County clerk before moving to
the Raytown area to become a successful fruit grower. Sallie Kirby married Luther J. Slaughter (the namesake for Slaughter Road). Truston Wyatt Kirby moved to Independence and Durwood Britton Kirby bought a 70-acre farm on Buckner Tarsney Road where he raise Hereford cattle, and Berkshire hogs, and mules which he sold to the U. S. Calvary during World War I. After Durwood’s first wife, Susan A. House, died, he married Rose Hicklin in 1915. In 1920, they torn down the old farmhouse and replaced it with the twostory stone house. The stones for the house came from house the Buckner Rock Quarry, north of their home on Spring Branch Road (later Truman Road). Together they had two children, Durwood Hicklin “Hick” and Emily Rose Overall. Emily’s daughter, Barbara alone with her husband, John Washburn, live in the house just south of her grandfather’s farm. Side note: Julia Ann Kirby became my great, great, great grandmother when she married Clinton B. Herrington. Their oldest son, Merrick Marion Herrington is buried in the Grain Valley Cemetery, originally known as the Herrington Cemetery. Many of the early families at Stony Point, Pink Hill, and Grain Valley came from Warren and Simpson counties in Kentucky. If you lived in Grain Valley in the mid-1900s, you were probably distantly related to nearly everyone!
100--year old house is one of the last remnants of the Kirby family properties in This 100 Grain Valley. Located on Buckner Tarsney at Truman Road, it was the home of Rose and Durwood Kirby. Photo credit: Grain Valley Historical Society
Visit www.grainvalleyhistory.com to learn more about the Grain Valley like”” the Historical Society on Facebook, Twitter, Historical Society and “like and Instagram (@grainvalleyhistory).
Five Tips For Celebrating Mother’s Day From (BPT) - This Mother's Day, you may not be able to be with your mom in person due to social distancing. The time apart may be difficult for everyone, but that doesn't mean you can't honor your beloved mom in other thoughtful ways that don't require person-toperson contact. The point is to remember her on her special day - which is coming up May 10 - to make her feel loved and let her know how much she means to you. Here are five ways you can show Mom how much you care without the need to leave your home.
An exclusive virtual experience Sign up for your mom to learn flower arranging from the pros by having farm -fresh flowers and a vase delivered to her doorstep, along with an invitation to create her own arrangement through a live-streamed social workshop. The collaboration between 1-800Flowers.com and floral-workshop platform Alice's Table provides Mom two wonderful gifts: A memorable hands-on experience and an arrangement she can be proud to display for days afterward. Find Alice's Table events at alicestable.com/events.
MoodMood -brightening flowers Alternatively, you may wish to send Mom's favorite blooms all ready to display and enjoy. Use the language of flowers to remind her in the best possible way that warmer days are coming, and the earth is about to spring forth with more sun, more greenery and a wealth of colorful new blooms. Spend a moment composing a warm and meaningful note to include with your specially selected bouquet to show Mom just how much you care. An ee-card with your personalized message Take a moment to express your feelings by emailing a free, specially designed virtual greeting card and customizing it with your own expressions of caring. LongLong -lasting greenery You may prefer to gift Mom with something even longer-lasting - a lush, healthy plant she can tend, grow and enjoy year after year. Plants add oxygen to any environment, and studies indicate having greenery around may even reduce stress.
iStock Photo A donation honoring mom This Mother's Day, we recognize that moms matter more than ever. It's important to share with your mom your reasons to be thankful: Is she watching over her grandkids, working overtime to keep her family fed or helping on the front lines of the health crisis? Or does she simply give you a hug and tell you everything will be OK? A donation to your mom’s favorite cause is a wonderful way to honor her. It's true that kissing and hugging your mom in person may be impossible this Mother's Day. But there are plenty of other safe and meaningful ways to honor her and the role she's played in your life. Plan ahead for a virtual Mother's Day celebration May 10.
Business
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Valley News is pleased to provide a free business directory to encourage our readers to support local businesses in this unprecedented time. Listings are provided at no cost to businesses and all local businesses are welcome to add their information. Visit www.grainvalleynews.com to view the Business Directory and/or add your business listing.
SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESS. SHOP LOCAL. AD SPECIALTIES/EMBROIDERY/ SCREEN PRINTING Jeff Barnard Barnard Sports & Apparel 617 NW Valley Ridge CT 816-355-0297 barnardsports@comcast.net barnardsportsandapparel.com Screen printing, Custom Embroidery, Advertising Specialties and uniforms Hours open: 9 to 5 M - F We have been in business since 1999, family owned and operated. We do embroidery and screen printing in house. Come by and see us for your company, team sports or organization needs. We would appreciate your business. Hilary Rider HD Graphics & Apparel 1436 SW Eagles Parkway, Grain Valley 816-847-7600 hdgraphicsandapparelllc@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ hdgraphicsandapparel Screen printing, embroidery, graphic design, sublimation, custom vinyl, promotional items Normal hours of operation: Tuesday, Thursday 9:00am – 5:00pm, Wednesday 9:00am – 6:00pm, Friday 10:00am – 4:00pm Ordering available via phone or email with curbside pick up option available.
ATTORNEYS Lorri WilbeeWilbee-Kobe Law Office of Lorri L. WilbeeWilbee-Kobe, LLC 510 Main Street, P.O. Box 309, Grain Valley MO 64029 Lkobe@lwklaw.com Www.lwklaw.com Law Office: Family law, Custody, Divorce, Support, Mediation, Traffic, Municipal Court matters, Powers of Attorney,
Health Care Directives Hours open: Normal hours are M-Th 8:30 to 6 and Friday 8:30 to 3. During the Order, we are handling new consultations by phone only and are accepting most payment by credit card (except initial deposits on hourly matters). Due to the significant need for Health Care Powers of Attorney and Directives, we are drafting them with phone consultations for $100.00. We are also accepting credit cards, temporarily, for attorney fees, fines and costs on traffic and municipal court matters. We have been your hometown lawyer’s office since 2006!
AUTOMOTIVE Absolute Automotive LLC 104 E AA Hwy sam@absoluteautomotive.net https://absoluteautomotive.net/ https://www.facebook.com/ AbsoluteAutomotiveLLC/ Auto Repair Hours open: Monday - Friday 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM Hight Automotive, Inc 103 Armstrong Dr 816-229-9919 hightauto@sbcglobal.net Facebook: @Hight Automotive Auto Repair and Machine Shop Hours open: 8am - 7pm Monday thru Thursday Missouri State Inspections by appointment only. We have a drop slot with envelopes provided for dropping off keys with area to specify problems to examine on vehicle. We can take credit card info for payment over the phone and lock keys in vehicle if preferred.
Justin Nicholls Nicholls Performance Transmissions 1200 D Nw Pamela Blvd Grain Valley Missouri 64029 816-522-7227 NPT7227@gmail.com Automotive transmission repair Hours open: 7am-6pm Monday-Thursday We’re open! Valley Synthetics David Abrams, Independent Dealer 816-699-2563 djaabrams@gmail.com www.valleysynthetics.com Walker Tire Truck & Tow Service 403 Action Road, Odessa 816816-230230-5752 Facebook: Walker Tire Truck & Tow Towing Company & Tire Store Hours open: 8-6 M-F 8-2 SAT / TOWING & ROADSERVICE 24/7
AWARDS AND ENGRAVING Melonie Hale MVP Awards & Engraving 805 C West Main, Blue Springs 816-224-6687 mvpawards@sbcglobal.net www.mvp--awards.net www.facebook.com/mvpawards www.facebook.com/ Awards and Engraving engraved gifts, plaques, trophies and sublimation Hours open: Mon, Wed, Fri 10-5 Tues, Thurs 10-6 Sat 10-1 Temporary hours 11-3 Tues & Thurs. Phone answered at all times. Curb side service.
BALLOONS Funtastic Balloon Creations 1103 NW Casey Blvd. Grain Valley, Mo 64029 816-598-0690 Info@funtasticballooncreations.com
Arches, columns, bouquets, balloon creations, party twisting, helium Hours open: Currently closed to walk in service. No contact delivery provided. During the stay at home order, you may order balloons online ( please give a 24 hour notice) and pick up at the store or we can do porch delivery.
BEAUTY SALONS/NAIL SALONS Studio Five Beauty Boutique 1440 SW Eagles Parkway 816-443-5193 Facebook: @Studio Five Beauty Boutique, Instagram: @Studio Five Beauty Boutique Hair salon, lash & makeup boutique, airbrush spray tan Hours open: Tuesday-Saturday While we currently cannot perform any services, we are still able to get your favorite Kevin Murphy & Unite products to you! Just contact us via Facebook and we will get you taken care of. Fredericos Nail Bar 512 Main St. Suite A 816-288-6449 Ffredericosnailbar18@gmail.com www.vagaries.com/fredericosnailbar Facebook: @Fredericos Nail Bar, @ Instagram: @fredericosnailbar Nail salon Hours open: 10:30-8 Closed for services but gift certificates are available website.
Business CBD PRODUCTS CBD American Shaman 1402 SW Eagles Parkway816-726-4615 kcbdamericanshaman@gmail.com https://cbdamericanshaman.com/ grainvalley https://www.yelp.com/biz/americanshaman-grain-valley-grain-valley Retail store specializing in CBD products Hours open: Sun 12-6 M-F 10:30-7 pm For home delivery please order at https://cbdamericanshaman.com/ grainvalley Feel free to call our store 816.726.4615 for curb side pick up and to check as we may flex our hours for the short term.
CHILDCARE Eagles Academy 1438 S Minter Way 816-355-0663 eaglesacademy.gv@gmail.com https://eaglesacademygv.wixsite.com/ website Facebook: @eaglesacademyllc Childcare Provider Hours open: Monday thru Friday 6am to 6pm We are remaining open so essential employees can have care for their children during this time. We are a state licensed facility and the state has asked us to remain open so those on the front lines can still receive quality care. We are waiving all enrollment fees until May 1st for all essential workers. Milestone Academy Child Development Center 1401 Buckner Tarsney Rd Grain Valley, MO 64029 816-847-0204 milestoneacademy@gmail.com milestoneacademycdc.com Child care services Hours open: 6:00am-6:00pm Hours reduced to 6:30am – 5:30pm during stay at home order.
CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Catherine Dowd Grain Valley Chiropractic, LLC 203 South Main Street 816-443-5485 grainvalleychiro@gmail.com www.grainvalleychiro@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/ grainvalleychiro/?ref=bookmarks Chiropractic We are reaching out to ensure your patient care and safety is our highest priority. We are going above and beyond CDC guidelines to safeguard your health and safety. During this time, we have arranged appointments to help with social distancing and limit patient exposure. As you arrive for your
appointment, we are asking that you remain in your vehicle and we will contact via text or phone call when you may enter.
CHURCHES crossroads Church 900 NW Jefferson ST 816-847-7621 http://direction4living.com First Baptist Church Grain Valley 207 W. Walnut www.grainvalleyfirst.com Faith United Methodist Church 1950 SW Eagles Parkway 816-847-0008 www.valleyfaith.church Valley Baptist Church 110 Front Street 816-810-6063 vbcgrainvalley@gmail.com www.vbcgrainvalley.org www.facebook.com/vbcgrainvalley www.instagram.com/vbcgrainvalley Sundays 9 and 10:30am; Wednesday at 7:00pm We stream live on YouTube Sundays at 10:30am https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCNJTxqtlbcDKf3689CMbVPg Small friendly church meeting in the old Mid-continent Library building right off Main on Front Street.
CLEANING SERVICES Kade Cleaning Systems, LLC 500 James Rollo Dr 816-888-9653 kadecleaningsystemsllc@gmail.com kadecleaning.com https://www.facebook.com/ kadecleaning Emergency Water Damage/Clean-up, Fire Damage and Mold Clean-up 24 hours for emergency services We are available 24/7 for any emergency needs you have.
DENTAL Guthrie Family Dental 1203 S Buckner Tarsney Rd guthriefamilydental@gmail.com Guthriefamilydental.com Dentist Hours open: Monday 8-7, Tuesday 9-4, Wednesday 85, Thursday 8-5, Friday 7-12 Emergency treatment only all other nonurgent appts will be rescheduled.
DIRECT SALES Catrina Brunk Scentsy Consultant
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816-769-0485 mombrunk3@gmail.com www.whoiswickless.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/ CatrinasVIPgroup/ Scentsy warmers, wax, oils , diffusers, and more You can shop online anytime. I am available for pick up or shopping from my home by appt. Courtney Williams ThirtyThirty-One Gifts - Independent Senior Consultant 913-548-7297 criceproverbs31@gmail.com www.mythirty-one.com/williamsc http://www.facebook.com/groups//toteallyblessed All orders will be shipped directly to your door. New Insider Rewards and Flat Rate Shipping. Online parties available.
DOG GROOMING Exclusively Dogs KC 1060 NE McQuerry Road, Suite F 816-721-5486 www.exclusivelydogskc.com Lodge of the Four Paws 511 James Rollo Dr 816-847-7777 Facebook: Lodge of the Four Paws Dog & cat grooming & boarding Hours open: M-W 8-6, Th 8-4, F 8-6, Sat 8-3, Sun 5-6
DOG TRAINING K9 Diversity Dog Training 515 Main St k9diversitydogtraining@gmail.com k9diversitydogtraining.com facebook.com/K9DiversityGrainValley Dog training Hours open: 4-8pm during the week 10-8 on Saturday Open for phone consultations during the stay at home order.
EDUCATION Crider’ Crider’s Institute of Welding Technology 300 NW Jefferson ST ciwt.mo@gmail.com cridersinstitute.com Welding School Hours open: 7:00 am - 10:00 pm
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Tasha Lindsey Grain Valley Partnership 1450 SW Eagle Parkway 816-443-5162 info@growgrainvalley.org
growgrainvalley.org Facebook: @growgrainvalley, @ValleyGrain (Twitter) Hours open: 9 am - 5 pm Even though I am splitting time spent working between my office and my home, I am still working to bring as much information regarding this COVID19 crisis to our business community. I am available to help in any way that I can. The Grain Valley Partnership is committed to supporting Grain Valley's business community to ensure growth, creating a positive atmosphere and as a connector to available resources. Promotion, Networking, Advocacy, Credibility, and Education are the top services that we offer year-round!
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR A&A Electrical Inc. 705 Squire Court ADMIN@AAELECTRICALINC.COM WWW.AAELECTRICALINC.COM https://www.facebook.com/ aaelectricalinc Hours open: 6 AM TO 3 PM We have been in business in Grain Valley since 1994. Residential service calls, commercial small to medium projects, swimming pool equipment, bucket truck work.
EVENT FACILITIES Acquaint Gathering 512 Capelle St hatfieldl87@gmail.com www.acquaintgathering.com Facebook: Acquaint Gathering, Instagram: Acquaint Gathering_kc Weddings and special events
GARAGE DOORS Andrew Powell State Line Door & Lift 816-616-8352 Statelinedoorlift@gmail.com www.statelinedoorlift.com www.facebook.com/statelinedoor Garage door supplier Business as usual. Taking precautions with necessary PPE while in your home. We have a no contact service, for your safety, if you wish. See our Facebook page for more information.
GROCERY Cosentino’ Cosentino’s Price Chopper 1191 NE McQuerry Road 7:00am – 8:00pm 7:00am – 8:00am reserved for seniors, expectant mothers, and customers with compromised immune systems. Mactan Asian Market 1438 SW Eagles Parkway mactanasianmarket1438@yahoo.com Facebook: Mactan Asian Market Hours open: 9:30 to 7:00 Monday thru Saturday Open during stay at home order.
Business
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FOOD MANUFACTURER
Nins Ward KC Classic Gourmet Foods LLC 1119 NW Valley Ridge DR 816-506-9023 nina@kcclassicgourmetfoods.com www.kcclassicgourmetfoods.com Food manufacturer Wholesale only
HOME INSPECTION Lawrence Baker Homesweet Home Advisor, LLC hshadvisor@gmail.com www.hshadvisor.com Home Inspection Hours open: Monday thru Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am to noon. $275.00 home inspection (up to a 2,500 sq/ft home) - valid thru June 30, 2020. 10% Discount Mold testing and reporting; Radon testing and reporting; Asbestos testing and reporting; Termite inspection and reporting; Sewer Scope inspection and reporting.
INSURANCE Andrist Farmers Insurance Agency 203 A S. Main St, Grain Valley MO 64029 816-759-8640 mandrist1@farmersagent.com https://agents.farmers.com/mo/grainvalley/margie-andrist Facebook: Margie Andrist Agency, Farmers Insurance Home, Auto, Life, Umbrella, Motorcycle, RV, Business Hours open: 8:30-5:30 M-F Please call my office at for help with any insurance needs. Farmers Insurance - Brown Agency 630 NW Jefferson Street 816-220-3637 jbrown5@farmersagent.com https://agents.farmers.com/mo/grainvalley/janette-brown Facebook: @tylerbrownfarmersagent Insurance for Life, Home, Auto, Umbrella, etc. Hours open: Working remotely from 8:30-5:30 Tanna is answering the phones and can answer most of your policy questions as well as making changes to your policy if necessary. This is a great time to give her a call and review your insurance with her. There may be some adjustments that we can make to help with your rates. If you are not our customer, this is a great opportunity to get a review of your current insurance policies and discover any risks and/or savings.
MASSAGE Ananda Therapies 816-943-9157 www.massagebook.com/biz/ anandatherapies
sign work orders. Many common pests carry disease and viruses. Control is recommended in all times but stressed during current health concerns. We do have access to disinfectant sprays that are labeled to kill bacteria and viruses.
Meinershagen & Co. Certified Public Accountants, Accounting and Tax Services 107 SW Eagles Parkway 816-847-0536 www.floydmeinershagenandco.com
MEDICAL
PHOTOGRAPHY
SERC Physicial Therapy 103 SW Eagles Parkway 816-443-2375 tkrska@serctherapy.com Physical Therapy Hours open: 7:00am – 6:00pm M-F
Diana Luppens Switch Focus Studios 816-809-8868 diluppens@sbcglobal.net www.switchfocusstudios.com Facebook/Instagram: Switch Focus Studios Photography: Family, Newborn, Seniors, Wedding Hours open: Appt only
Valley Tax Service 210 Cannon Street 816-847-2180 valley210@sbcglobal.net www.ValleyTaxService.tax Tax Preparation all year, Notary and Fax services during off season Hours open: January-May 9:00am – 5:00pm., June December 9:00am – 4:00pm Office is open for clients to come and leave documents to file taxes. Clients will be called when tax returns are completed for signing and pickup. Office is cleaned between visits.
MERCHANT SERVICES Ed Thomas Blue Payment Systems Bluepaymentsytems@gmail.com www.BluePaymentSystems.com https://m.facebook.com/EdtheCardMan https://Twitter.com/Edthecardman We are a full-service merchant service brokerage we offered a better way to get paid call for details 816833097 Hours open: Open Monday through Friday from 8 to 7 PM call 816-833-0975
PEST CONTROL Ben Stowe Echo Pest Control 1251 NW Pamela Blvd suite A ben.moxie@gmail.com www.echopestcontrol.com https://www.facebook.com/echopestkc/ Pest Control Hours open: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat 8am-12pm Echo Pest control offers service to all homes and businesses during the stay at home order. We will be limiting inside treatments on a case by case basis. Technicians will practice safe distancing and not have customers shake hands or sign work orders. Many common pests carry disease and viruses. Control is recommended in all times but stressed during current health concerns. We do have access to disinfectant sprays that are labeled to kill bacteria and viruses. Kevin Girtz Moxie Pest Control 1251 NW Pamela Blvd Suite A kevin.moxiemo@gmail.com www.killbugsfast.com https://www.facebook.com/ MoxiePestControlKansasCity/ Pest Control service Hours open: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat- 8am-12pm Moxie Pest control offers service to all homes and businesses during the stay at home order. We will be limiting inside treatments on a case by case basis. Technicians will practice safe distancing and not have customers shake hands or
RENTAL SERVICES Dave Kennedy Grain Valley Rental, Inc. 209 James Rollo Drive gvalleyrental@aol.com www.grainvalleyrental.com Lawn Mower Sales and service / Equipment Rental, Propane Hours open: Mon - Fri 8am - 4pm Subject to Change Open with shortened hours. Mon-Fri 8-4 no weekends.
RESTAURANTS El Maguey 102 S Main ST 816-443-2794 Available for carry out orders. El Tequilazo 522 S Main ST 816-355-0258 Available for carry out orders. www.eltequilazorestaurant.com
SMALL ENGINE REPAIR The Small Engine Shop 311C James Rollo Rd, Grain Valley, MO 64029 816-215-8766 https://www.facebook.com/ SmallEngineShop Small Engine Repair Shop Hours open: M-F 8 AM-5 PM, closed 11:30 AM-12:30 PM for lunch + Sat 9 AM-Noon
TAX SERVICE Gail Boyson Boyson Tax Service. LLC 1000 SW Cross Creek Dr gail@boysontaxservice.com Tax preparation for individuals and businesses
TRAFFIC SAFETY PRODUCTS J A Traffic Products LLC 627 NW Valley Ridge Circle 816-220-0450 amindham@jatps.com www.jatps.com Traffic Safety Products/ Road Construction Products Hours open: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm Please contact via phone or email if you are interested in placing an order.
VENDING SERVICES David Carter Carter’ Carter’s Sales LLC Vending Company 649 SW Gateway Ct 816-876-7998 Carterd2004@yahoo.com Food and drink vending machine company Hours open: 5:00 am — 5:30 pm We own and operate a full service vending machine service for local businesses. We place vending machines in local businesses and keep them fully stocked at your convenience. Our goal is to offer on-site food and drinks at a fair price to help keep employees and customers happy.
Community Voices
Page 7
Wayne’s World The Times Are A Changin’ (Part 3) by Wayne Geiger
My friend Terry loves to tell a story about, Johnny, a young man in Sunday School. For months, his teacher tried to help the class learn some biblical terminology. He couldn’t seem to remember the word, Armageddon. Week after week she would question him about the word and he constantly got it wrong. Finally, in desperation, he cried out, “I’m just not going to remember it—and what’s the big deal, anyway? It’s not like it’s the end of the world!” My subject in this last article is no small matter. It’s about the end of the world. I prefer to write about happy things. But, I’m compelled by truth. Hopefully, this article will be insightful to Christians and illuminating to those who are not. Jesus promised that He would come again. These promises are weaved throughout the New Testament. The most concentrated teaching on the subject is found in the last book of the Bible, The Revelation (BTW the Greek word for Revelation is “Ἀποκάλυψις,” from which we get our word, apocalypse). John, the human author, provides a prophetic overview of what Christians would call “the end times.” The epicenter of biblical prophecy is not the United States, but the Middle East and specifically the nation of Israel. Ever wonder why for thousands of years, nations have tried to eradicate Israel— and yet it’s still there?. When considering this topic, I should point out that, last year, I spoke on the subject of the end times and did a tenweek series on the subject. I only say that to say that most of what I write here will be an oversimplification in order to provide a basic overview and not exceed my suggested word limit (by too much). Within Christianity, there is no general consensus on “the order of events” on how or when Jesus will come back. Jesus said, “No one knows the day or the hour” (Mark 13:32). All we know is that His second coming is imminent. He promised, “Behold, I am coming quickly” (Rev 22:20). If you’re wondering what He means by quickly, the Bible reminds us, “A day in the Lord is like a thousand years and a thousand years as one day” (2 Pet 3:8). On God’s calendar, Jesus has been gone two days. Christians realize that when Jesus comes back, this world will be destroyed by fire. Global warming will not be the culprit. As Peter wrote, “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved” (2 Pet 3:10). God, the Divine Architect, will erase the canvas and start all over. He will eliminate what
is broken and make everything perfect. The “why” question always comes up. What’s the purpose? Like everything else, this world has an expiration date. Basically, what Satan, sin, and selfishness corrupted in the garden (Gen 3), God will “fix” and create a new heaven and a new earth (Rev 21). But, before you can bring in the new, it’s out with the old. Before Jesus returns, this world will experience a time of trouble. You may be familiar with the term, “the Great Tribulation.” That phrase is taken from Matthew 24:21 where Jesus said, “There will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be.” The tribulation is a seven-year time period that will precede the end of the world. Jesus said that before the tribulation begins, there will be signs. Specifically, He told us to expect wars and rumors of war, famines, earthquakes, and plagues (see Matt 24:5 -7 and Luke 21:11). These would intensify. The last three-and-a-half years of this time period is known as, “the Great Tribulation.” This will be a time period that will be all-out chaos and quite literally hell on earth as the antichrist (aka the beast, Rev 13) brings destruction as he seeks world domination. This is Satan’s last stand. For many years, previous generations have believed they would see Jesus’s return. Who could blame them? We all interpret the signs of the times from our personal and present perspective (fueled by our media choices). Can you imagine living in the time of the atrocities connected to World War II? I’m sure that many believed that Hitler, who sought to annihilate Israel and take over the world, was the antichrist. It must have been a frightening time, but the end was not yet. In our present world, many believe that we have been enlightened and have grown past the ridiculousness of the mistakes of the past. Not so much. History is cyclical. People are forgetful. Evil is real. This world will witness a time of chaos and destruction, such has never been seen, as the antichrist seeks to destroy Israel, the church, and seeks world domination. I’ve known all of this for years. Most Christians do. The question I’ve always had was, “How does the United States factor into all this?” To control the world, you’ve got to be able to eliminate freedom, control communication, and oversee the economy. Basic ruling the world 101. The Bible reveals that, during the end times, there will be famines. Most people make decisions based upon their own self-preservation and they will do about anything when they’re hungry (or need toilet paper, we’ve found).
The Bible says, the antichrist “causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to be marked on the right hand or the forehead, so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name” (Rev 13:16-17). That’s what Christians call, the “mark of the beast.” This satanic world leader will attempt to unite, and then control, all people groups (global accountability) and oversee a global economy. So much could be written here, but suffice to say, it’s not about a chip in the skin; it’s about allegiance to an ungodly, satanic system. I’ve always wondered how the U.S., the greatest nation in the world, would factor in. During the coronavirus, we experienced firsthand, how a threatening virus, fear, and panic could lead people to change their behavior. I marveled at how quickly authoritative figures moved in and how Americans were willing to give up some of their freedoms for the general well-being and, perhaps, a stimulus check. (PS this is not a statement suggesting that quarantine is good or bad, but just an observation of how quickly things changed). Americans are polarized on this issue. About 200 years ago, a fascinating document emerged. It was either written by Alexander Tyler or Alexis de Tocqueville. It says, "A democracy is always temporary in nature; it simply cannot exist as a permanent form of government. A democracy will continue to exist up until the time that voters discover that they can vote themselves generous gifts from the public treasury.” The premise is fascinating and frightening. Nations, primarily democracies, go through a lifecycle that includes: From bondage to spiritual faith; from spiritual faith to great courage; from courage to liberty; from liberty to abundance; from abundance to complacency; from complacency to apathy; from apathy to dependence; from dependence back into bondage. I wonder where we are on the list? We will never forget 9/11. But our children and grandchildren don’t
remember a time when we could just walk on an airplane without taking off our shoes. Two months after 9/11, protecting airports was taken over at the federal level. Now, taking off our shoes and banning liquids is just common acceptance and common practice. Naturally, it’s for our own safety, and I’m not advocating anything other than your consideration and introspection. My perspective is biblical. I believe what the Bible says. I don’t always know the “how,” but I do know the “what.” Jesus will come again at the end of the world. Please understand, I’m not suggesting that we are “at” the end of the world. But I now have a better understanding of how it “could” happen. In order for the United States to be grafted into a global system, there must be an authoritarian system of control. This control must include accountability (giving up all personal freedoms) and the control of the economy. The times, they are a changin’ and I’ve seen how this “could”, one day, happen. As far as the church is concerned, the church is commanded, by Scripture (Rom 13), to comply to all governmental authorities—unless those authorities violate the commands in Scripture. This is not a time for anarchy or rebellion, but compliance. But, the table has been set. I’m aware that there are various attitudes that may emerge to this article—the obvious would be belief or unbelief, acceptance or rejection. There are also various responses. One could, perhaps, focus on self-preservation, buy up all the canned goods, disinfectant wipes, and toilet paper, and hunker down in a bunker somewhere off the grid. The better, and informed position, would be to choose to trust that God is sovereign and loving and that everything that will happen is divinely orchestrated by God’s hand and choose to trust Him, come what may. After all, it’s not the end of the world. At least, not yet.
Dr. Wayne Geiger is the Pastor of First Baptist Grain Valley, an Adjunct Associate Professor of Speech, and freelance writer.
Technology
Page 8
Watch Out For Cyber Scams by Burton Kelso, The Technology Expert
In any national or global crisis, you can count on cyber criminals to find ways to take advantage of people and the COVID-19 crisis is no exception. Fear and misinformation create a perfect storm that allows scammers to use technology to trick you out of your hard-earned money. While you are spending your time online and social media during this period of social distancing, here are some scams you need to watch out for. I want to remind you that 99% of Cybercrime requires user interaction. As long as you keep your devices updated and use adequate virus protection software, your technology devices are safe from being hacked. When you hear of companies falling victim to ransomware attacks, smart home devices getting compromised, it's because people weren't taking steps to protect themselves. If you don't want your devices and accounts getting hacked, use strong passwords and don't give out your information. Here is the list of scams to avoid. 1. Phishing and Malware scams Phishing and malware scams are the most common ways cybercriminals try to access your personal data. Phishing occurs when criminals send false emails or make phones pretending they are from a trustworthy source to try to convince you to share your sensitive data such as passwords or credit card information. Malware stands for malicious software, which is software designed to get access to your computer and smart devices without your knowledge. The biggest threats come from people who are posing as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 2. Investment scams Beware of online promotions on social media and email, informing you that products or services of publicly traded companies can prevent, detect,
or cure the coronavirus, causing the stock of these companies to dramatically increase in value as a result. 3. Shopping Scams Keep your eye on e-commerce websites, social media accounts, and emails from people and stores claiming to sell medical supplies currently in high demand. Supplies might include things like hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and surgical masks. When you make purchases from these fake stores, criminals will keep your money but you will never see the products you purchased. 4. Charity scams Whenever there is a crisis, you need to always watch out for individuals and companies asking for donations for people and groups affected by the coronavirus. 5. Medical scams Watch out for calls and emails from people pretending to be hospitals and medical professionals that have treated your friends and family for the coronavirus and demand payment for treating them. Standard hospital practices still apply during this crisis and payment information will be collected at the hospital.
by using vulgar language or sharing pornographic images. Other times, they will attempt to send files to your device in an attempt to infect them with malware or viruses. To prevent Zoom Bombing, do the following: 1. Add a Zoom meeting password 2. Disable File Transfers 3. Disable "Join Before Host" 4. Change Screen sharing to “host-only” 5. Disable the feature to "Allow removed participants to rejoin” Cyber scams will constantly evolve just like technology does. Always stay vigilant and make sure you're keeping track of the latest data breaches, using different passwords on all of your online accounts and backing up your critical information at home and work to make sure your information and money stay out of the hands of cybercriminals.
Want to ask me a tech question?
6. App scams Apps are a popular way to infect smart devices like phones and tablets. Criminals and creating fake mobile apps that claim to track the spread of COVID19. Once the app is downloaded to your device, it will install malware on your device which is designed to steal your personal information. Currently, the only approved app to download to Apple and Android for tracking the COVID-19 virus is from https://www.healthlynked.com/ 7. Zoom Bombing Zoom has become a popular choice for people to communicate while working at home and hackers have taken notice. Zoom Bombing is when creeps and criminals alike force their way into your Zoom meetings. Sometimes they are just disruptive
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Send it to burton@callintegralnow.com. If you prefer to connect with me on social media, you can find me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter and watch great tech tip videos on my YouTube channel. I love technology. I've read all of the manuals and I want to make technology fun and exciting for you. 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. My team of friendly tech experts are always standing by to answer your questions and help make your technology useful and fun. Reach out to us a www.callintegralnow.com or phone at 888-256-0829.
Outdoors & Recreation
Page 9
MDC Reminds Conservation Area Visitors To Observe Physical Distancing And Follow Area Regulations by Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation
Trees are leafing out, morel mushrooms are emerging, and fish are active as nature’s dynamic spring patterns are unfolding. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) encourages people to enjoy the outdoors, but MDC also encourages anglers, hikers, and hunters to observe COVID-19 physical distancing health precautions. Also, while fishing and turkey hunting seasons are open, the normal regulation and permit requirements apply. MDC and partners provide angling opportunities in urban as well as rural areas. But anglers need to have proper fishing permits, Conservation Agent Rachel Webster, who patrols Jackson County said. MDC earlier temporarily
waived permit requirements for sport fishing and daily trout tags, but that waiver ended on April 15 and normal fishing regulations now apply. Permits can be purchased online. To buy a fishing permit or to check on requirements, visit https:// huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/fishing/permits. MDC conservation areas offer trails or roads to hike upon. But visitors are reminded that health officials recommend physical distancing when outdoors as a coronavirus precaution. Also, hikers and morel hunters should be aware that Missouri’s three-week spring turkey hunting season is open through May 10. Turkey hunting ends daily at 1 p.m., so hikers are advised to visit conservation
areas open to hunting in the afternoons. Extending courtesy to fellow visitors at public conservation areas is a good idea at all times. MDC’s public lands are a shared resource. To find and MDC conservation area with fishing or hiking opportunities near your home, visit https:// nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/ places.
MDC encourages people to enjoy the outdoors, but do so while following guidelines issued by health officials as COVID--19. a precaution against COVID Conservation areas and public fishing lakes are shared resources, so use them with care and courtesy to others. Photo by Bill Graham, MDC
Peregrine Falcon Nest In Kansas City Now Available Online by Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation
Peregrine falcons are once again tending nests in the Kansas City area, and the public can watch one pair tend eggs and raise young online. A web camera is aimed at a nest box atop the American Century Investments office building near the Country Club Plaza. Four other nests are active with nesting falcon pairs, Joe Debold, urban wildlife biologist for the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) said. “All nests have eggs and incubation is occurring,” DeBold said. “They should hatch in mid-May.” Besides the American Century site, biologists are monitoring nests in the Kansas City metro area on smokestacks at Evergy’s Iatan and Hawthorn power plants, and on ledges or roofs at Commerce Tower and the offices of Shook, Hardy & Bacon. Only the American Century site has a nest site web camera streaming live video online this spring. Peregrine falcons are acrobatic, highspeed fliers. They historically nested on ledges on cliffs or bluffs. An endangered species in Missouri, their numbers have
been increased in recent decades thanks to nest boxes placed on high places in urban areas. Peregrine falcon restoration is a partnership between MDC, private businesses, and other conservation partners. The adult falcons brave wind, rain, cold, sun, and sometimes hot days as they tend nests and eggs in high places. People can watch on the computer in the comfort of home or office. In early weeks, the adults take turns incubating eggs. They leave to hunt pigeons or other food and often return with food to the nest. Then the day arrives when the eggs hatch and the fuzzy baby falcons emerge. Parents come and go with food for them. Finally, it is surprising to see how fast the young grow and mature. They fledge or leave the nest in summer. To watch a falcon pair tend eggs and then raise young at the American Century building, visit https:// short.mdc.mo.gov/Zny. For more information about peregrine falcons in Missouri, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZqA.
People can watch peregrine falcon pairs incubate eggs and feed newly hatched chicks via a web camera streaming video from a nest on a ledge at American Century Investments in Kansas City. These falcons hatched in earlier years. Photo by Debra Burns, Missouri Department of Conservation
Sports
Page 10
Honoring 2020 Grads With Senior Send Off Profiles To say this has been an unusual and disappointing end to the 2019-20 school year would be quite the understatement. With the cancellation of the spring sports season and the postponement or cancellation of many of the traditional year-end activities to honor the senior class, Valley News wanted to highlight some of the wonderful student athletes who make up the Class of 2020. In the coming weeks, we will
Deryk Carey
Photo courtesy Deryk Carey
Sport: Baseball
Plans after high school: I’m attending Hannibal-LaGrange University where I’m going to study Sports Marketing and play baseball. Highlights of your career as a student athlete: Our service day every year and getting to help people who needed it the most. What were some of the biggest lessons you learned as a student athlete? How to manage sports and school at the same time. Thank You: I’d like to thank Coach Driskell, Coach Giangrosso, and Coach Ogle for helping me become a better student athlete.
Mia Clasby Sport: Cheerleading
Plans after high school: I plan to attend MCC Blue River and major in Nursing. Highlights of your career as a student athlete: Winning State with my teammates after all the hard work we put in. What were some of the biggest lessons you learned as a student athlete? Over the years, I have learned to never give up on yourself or your teammates. It can get super hard at times but the relationships you build make it all worth it.
Photo courtesy Mia Clasby
Thank You: I would like to thank my parents who gave me the opportunity to cheer and for supporting me every step of the way. I would also like to thank Coach Delanne, Coach Megan and Coach Ashley. They not only encouraged me and taught me how to become the cheerleader I am today, but they have also taught me life lessons that I will carry with me forever.
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highlight senior athletes in our Senior Send Off Feature and give them the spotlight they deserve. Seniors: You should receive information from your coaches with a link to submit your information for our Senior Send Off profiles. If you have not received this information and would like to participate, please send us an email to news@grainvalleynews.com. We will publish profiles in the order received.
Sports
Page 11
Chiefs 90 Man Roster Starts To Take Shape After Free Agency and Draft by John Unrein
The Kansas City Chiefs have been busy during this last week. The organization drafted six new players as well as signing eighteen undrafted rookie free agents. The subsequent releases of reserve quarterback Kyle Shurmur and veteran punter Dustin Colquitt have followed. Colquitt admitted on Twitter that recent days have been hard. “Not my terms…this is tough,” Colquitt wrote in a post. “I have enjoyed my time in Chiefs Kingdom, all things come to an end, sometimes sooner than you hoped, prayed and pleaded for them to.” Colquitt continued, “I’ll miss walking into the building and smelling the coffee, talking to everyone. It took me forever to weave through some of the most loving people you’d ever hope to work with. I was a young kid when I first walked into Arrowhead. Hell, the indoor facility used to be 70 yards long. Holding this post for 15 years has been an honor that I never took for granted. Thank you KC.,” Colquitt is referred to by Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid as one of the greatest Chiefs of all time. The record for most punting yards (50,393) as well as game appearances (250, including playoff games) are both held by the punter the Chiefs drafted in the third round out of the University of Tennessee in 2005. He was drafted high for a punter due to his penchant for directional kicking and placing the football inside the opponents 20 yard line on punts. Field position is paramount in football. Being a left footed punter that puts opposite spin on the football can be harder for punt returners to catch. Thus, requiring more preparation in practice in the week leading up to a game. All of this led to then Chiefs head coach Dick Vermeil saying, “Drafting Dustin in the third round is like getting another starter for our team, as special teams is one-third of the game.” The NFL website reveals that Colquitt has only seen a slight regression in his numbers over the last three seasons. Colquitt’s yard per punt average has gone from 45.2, to 44.9, to 44.3 from the 2017 through 2019 seasons. His longest punts have gone for 77 yards in 2017, to 67 yards in 2018, to 68 yards in 2019. More importantly, it was visible that Colquitt carried the respect of his teammates and coaching staff. That can be rare in professional football for a kicker or punter. Fans around the Kansas City area have lamented the release of the longest tenured Chief. Recent years have seen Jamaal Charles, Tamba Hali, Derrick Johnson, Eric Berry, and now Dustin Colquitt end their tenure with the team, in what has seemed like the
ending of an era. Colquitt’s release means that no player remains on the roster from when Andy Reid arrived in Kansas City in 2013. That is the nature of professional football. Colquitt was due to make $2.65 million in 2020 per the National Football League website. The Chiefs save $2 million in salary cap room by releasing him, money that will no doubt be used to sign this year’s draft class. Not to mention the pending interest of Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach in locking up quarterback Patrick Mahomes and defensive tackle Chris Jones to long term contracts. The most likely candidates to replace Colquitt are already on the Chiefs roster. Punter Tyler Newsome had a strong career at Notre Dame prior to spending part of his early career with the San Diego Chargers. The Chiefs also signed University of Florida punter, Tommy Townsend, who many viewed to be the best punter coming out of college football this year after the draft. Townsend’s rookie contract will include $82,500 in guaranteed money, including a $7,500 signing bonus per Gator Sports website. Townsend’s stat line no doubt helped him secure a good contract as an undrafted rookie free agent. The Ray Guy Award semifinalist (given to the best punter in college football) totaled 1,847 yards on 42 punts, averaging 44 yards per kick, in 2019. The Orlando, Florida native would also go on to record 11 punts over 50 yards and had 20 punts downed inside the 20 yard line in 2019. NFL Draft Diamonds explained in September of 2019 that 30.9% of team rosters in the league were made up of undrafted rookie free agents. That 14.3% of rosters were 1st round draft picks, 11.0% were 2nd round draft picks, 11.1% were 3rd round draft picks, 9.9% were 4th round draft picks, 8.6% were 5th round draft picks, 8.4% were 6th round picks, and 5.7% were 7th round picks. The Chiefs apparent draft strategy was to add positional depth on offense and speed on defense. Louisiana State Running Back Clyde Edwards-Helaire, the team’s first round pick, will team with veteran Damien Williams to form a one-two punch in the backfield behind quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Six foot seven offensive tackle Lucas Niang was selected in the third round out of Texas Christian University. The 328 pound offensive lineman provides positional versatility, being able to play both offensive guard and tackle. Niang boasts what few can, as the second overall pick in the 2020 draft, Ohio State defensive end Chase Young admitted it was a tough day going against Niang when they faced off during their college career. Niang’s 2019
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season ended prematurely as he had surgery to repair a torn labrum in his hip. Second round draft pick Willie Gay Jr.’s official NFL combine 40 yard dash time was 4.46 seconds (4.4 seconds is considered world class speed in the 40 yard dash). The linebacker and former Mississippi State Bulldog will join Louisiana Tech defensive back L’Jarius Sneed and his 4.37 official NFL combine 40 yard dash time to help keep pace on defense for the Chiefs in the track meet that is becoming the AFC West Division. Gay Jr. will join Chris Jones, Martinas Rankin, Darryl Williams, and Braxton Hoyett as one of five former Mississippi State Bulldogs on the Chiefs 90 man roster heading into the 2020 season. Veach has gone on record as saying he feels that Mississippi State players have arrived in the NFL well coached and possessing the tools needed for the offensive and defensive schemes the Chiefs play. Each NFL team has the goal of starting their offseason program with a three-deep depth chart at each position. Muddying the waters is cornerback Bashaud Breeland’s recent arrest. According to a report published by ESPN’s Adam Teicher, Breeland was arrested Tuesday, April 28th in York County, South Carolina on multiple charges. They include resisting arrest, having alcohol in a motor vehicle with the seal broken, having an open container of beer or wine in a motor vehicle, possession of 28 grams or less of marijuana or 10 grams of hash, and driving without a license. Here is a current positional breakdown of the Chiefs roster. QuarterbackQuarterback Patrick Mahomes, Chad Henne, Jordan Ta’amu Running BackBack Damien Williams, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Darwin Thompson, DeAndre Washington, Darrel Williams, Mike Weber, Elijah McGuire
iStock Photo Wide ReceiverReceiver Andre Baccellia, Felton Davis, Gehrig Dieter, Jody Fortson, Mecole Hardman, Aleva Hifo, Tyreek Hill, Kalija Lipscomb, Byron Pringle, Demarcus Robinson, Justice Shelton-Mosely, Sammy Watkins, Cody White Offensive LineLine Nick Allegretti, Jackson Barton, Yasir Durant, Dr. Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, Jovahn Fair, Eric Fisher, Ryan Hunter, Lucas Niang, Martinas Rankin, Austin Reiter, Mike Remmers, Mitchell Schwartz, Greg Senat, Darryl Williams, Andrew Wylie Defensive LineLine Frank Clark, Michael Danna, Demone Harris, Braxton Hoyett, Chris Jones, Tanoh Kpassagnon, Devaroe Lawrence, Derrick Nnadi, Alex Okafor, Mike Pennel, Khalen Saunders, Breeland Speaks, Tim Ward, Tershawn Wharton LinebackerLinebacker Omari Cobb, Willie Gay Jr., Darius Harris, Anthony Hitchens, Ben Niemann, Dorian O’Daniel, Emmanuel Smith, Damien Wilson, Bryan Wright CornerbackCornerback Hakeem Bailey, Alex Brown, Javaris Davis, Lavert Hill, Bashaud Breeland, Rashad Fenton, Antonio Hamilton, Bopete Keyes, Chris Lammons, L’Jarius Sneed, Chavarius Ward SafetySafety Rodney Clemons, Jalen Julius, Andrew Soroh, Armani Watts, Daniel Sorensen, Tyrann Mathieu Long SnapperSnapper James Winchester
FullbackFullback Anthony Sherman, John Lovett
KickerKicker Harrison Butker
Tight EndEnd Travis Kelce, Ricky SealsJones, Deon Yelder, Nick Keizer, Alize Mack
PunterTommy Punter Newsome
Townsend,
Tyler
Community Calendar Friday, May 1, 2020
Tuesday, May 19, 2020
Virtual Storytime 10:00am Join via Mid-Continent Public Library’s Main Facebook page www.mymcpl.org/events/virtual-events
Park Board Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley Community Center, 713 S. Main
Stories for the Family: Professional Storyteller Joyce Slater 3:00pm Join via the Story Center at MCPL Facebook page www.mymcpl.org/events/virtual-events
Last Day of School Grain Valley Schools
Springtime Yoga (for kids) 4:00pm Join via the MCPL 360 Facebook page www.mymcpl.org/events/virtual-events
Monday, May 4, 2020
Mad Science Presents The Science of Magic 2:00pm Register online: www.mymcpl.org/ events/virtual-events
Monday, May 11, 2020
Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm City Hall, 711 Main Street
Wednesday, May 20, 2020
Thursday, May 21, 2020
Salute to Seniors Virtual Presentation Grain Valley Schools
Tuesday, June 2, 2020 General Municipal Election
Thursday, July 16, 2020
Sni Valley Graduation 7:00pm Jan Reding Community Room and Lecture Hall, Grain Valley High School
Thursday, July 23, 2020
Grain Valley High School Graduation Commencement Ceremony 7:00pm Community of Christ Auditorium, Independence
Wednesday, May 13, 2020
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting 6:30pm City Hall, 711 Main Street
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